Letter From The President
               Andy Wells, CJF


      Spring is here and with it comes changes, new activity, and the prospect of realized reward for all the
planning we did over the winter. At least, that’s how most of the country views Spring. Here in So-Cal we
don’t really get a break during the winter. We’re busy shoeing all year. We have one of the hardest, yet most
rewarding jobs in the country. We are tasked with keeping horses shod and sound fifty-six weeks a year.
Our horses don’t usually get the winter off like they do in other parts of the country. So, let’s give ourselves a
pat-on-the-back for managing to do something that most shoers don’t even get to try.

       Part of what makes it possible to do this 52 weeks a year is the camaraderie we have with other
members of the association on an everyday basis and at the special events/clinics that SDCFA sponsors
throughout the year. Foremost among these is the “Fall Forging” competition held annually in October. This
year we are also expanding the deep-sea fishing trip to a three-quarter day trip. (Apparently, some people
don’t think they can get enough “chumming” done on a half-day boat). Of course, we will have a pre-
certification test clinic/workshop prior to the test in October and we are, once again, privileged to host the
American Farriers Association Team at a practice and clinic in June.

       These are some of the tried-and-true clinics/events that we have had in the past. But, this year I would
like people to challenge the SDCFA to provide clinics which touch more on everyday shoeing issues. What
areas/things do you have a problem with? Do you need help with how to address a long/run-out toe or a
more upright/clubby foot? How about a quick way to shape a shoe to a foot and really get it to fit that foot?
What about trimming a foot for soundness and balance?  Think about these things and call me, or another
Board member with your ideas.  Doing the same thing over and over can be good, but it can also be terribly
boring. I know I’ve gotten bored with some horses to the point that I wanted to quit them. (Not a way to run a
good business. How about how to keep from getting burnt-out on your business and shoeing in general?)

       I know this is said all the time, but this IS your association. It is here for you, the member. The Board of
Directors and the officers voluntarily organize and arrange the events. But, we need your input, at least
occasionally, in order to organize events, which will be beneficial to you.
Make it YOUR association.
                       Andy Wells, CJF
                       760-788-1519

From The Desk of The President: