As we enter another season and a beautiful one at that here in Orange County my hopes for a unified dressage community continue to intensify just as the colors will soon be doing.  Some of you may consider this position unrealistic and idealistic but as this is one of my top priority goals I must go forward with my intentions.  I am very pleased with the slow but increasing membership. I am positive through continued personal communication along with our GMO’s commitment to provide quality educational opportunities we will attract new interested members as well as retain our current members. 
            I will admit that I often look at this organization through the eyes of a veteran classroom teacher that I am and send the following advice of not letting our diversity and differences divide us.  I believe that growth and wisdom come from being open minded and accepting of others.  I will continue to send this message and invite everyone to consider becoming a part of OCDA.  Whether our membership is 70 or 700 the board of directors along with a few very active volunteers will continue to devote ourselves to the promotion of our common interest and passion of dressage.
            I am sure that you will not be disappointed with what is in store for you as a member in 2009!  Welcome to our renewing members and our new members!