Howdy Saddle Sore Family,
June was truly an amazing month on the trail. We were blessed with two spectacular rides that reminded us why we love what we do. The Walnut Creek ride took us through a beautiful, shaded route behind Wild Rivers near Puddingstone—an absolutely peaceful and scenic journey. We wrapped up the month with an unforgettable adventure through Santiago Oaks Regional Park. The landscape was breathtaking, and although it was a busy day with walkers, hikers, and bikers sharing the path, everyone got along great. Both rides were incredibly well attended, and I want to give a big shout-out to Mike McCarthy for trail bossing and organizing both events. Fantastic job, Mike!
As we roll into July, I’m excited to announce that Saddle Sore Riders is teaming up with the Norco Horsemen’s Association to host the city’s Fourth of July Trail Ride. With the city unable to fund the traditional ride due to budget cuts, our two organizations stepped in to keep the tradition alive. We’ve been working closely to ensure this year’s event is one of the best ever—don’t miss it!
Mark your calendars for July 29—that’s when we’ll be gathering at the American Legion. Cindy Merritt and her team will be grilling up hamburgers, and word on the trail is—they’re outstanding. Come hungry and come ready for a good time!
Also, keep an eye out for your invitation to our 40th Anniversary Membership Party. It includes all the important details and an RSVP date. This is going to be a celebration you won't want to miss—I hope to see each and every one of you there!
Remember, we love exploring every kind of trail ride out there. If you’ve got a new idea or a favorite spot, step up and volunteer to lead a ride. You’ll find plenty of experienced folks in our group ready to help you make it a success.
With summer upon us, please remember to take care of yourselves and your horses. Hydration is key—start drinking water the day before a big ride, wear your hat, lather up with sunscreen, and take those breaks in the shade. We want everyone healthy and happy out there.
And speaking of health, please keep some of our riders in your prayers. Cindy Merritt, Cindy Scheirer, and Renee Conant were all injured this past month. If you get a moment, send them a card, a text, or a note to let them know their Saddle Sore family is thinking of them.
I’ll leave you with a little cowboy wisdom this month:
“Courage is being scared to death—saddling up anyway.” – John Wayne
Ride safe, stay cool, and I’ll see you on the trail.
Blessings, Don Pettinger
President
Saddle Sore Riders, Inc.®
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Officers, Board, and Standing Chairpersons
2025 OFFICERS
PRESIDENT Don Pettinger 909-636-2130 bulldwgs@aol.com
VICE-PRESIDENT MayLynn Motley 951-965-1724 maylynn.motley@yahoo.com
SECRETARY Michelle Marshall 909-816-3441 mrsbryant@msn.com
TREASURER Alicia Ziegenbein 951-316-5529 treasurer.ssr@yahoo.com
BOARDMEMBERS
Danny Gonzalez (IPP elected in 2025) 951-642-1362 dkgranch@gmail.com
Cindy Merritt (25-26) 951-250-6492 cmerritt4x@gmail.com
Tammy Kapec (24-25) 951-515-9442 tkapec@hotmail.com
Rona Meyers (25-26) 951-233-3250 ucla78@aol.com
Jeanne Kelly (24-25) 951-204-2924 cowgirljk@msn.com
STANDING CHAIRPERSONS
THE CAGE Joann Vidinoff 760-220-1688 mjvidinoff@yahoo.com
COUNTRY STORE Rona Meyers 951-233-3250 ucla78@aol.com
EQUIPMENT MGR Mike Meyers 951-809-7812 wmmeyers52@att.net
EVENT SIGNS Martin Garcia 951-703-9341 marting19823@gmail.com
HISTORIAN Cindy Merritt 951-250-6492 cmerritt4x@gmail.com
MEMBERSHIP Karen Gonzalez 909-229-4986 dkgranch@gmail.com
NOOSELETTER Pam Witham 951-206-5555 4withams@sbcglobal.net
OUTRIDER /SECURITY Danny Gonzalez 951-642-1362 dkgranch@gmail.com
WEBMISTRESS/PUBLICITY Michelle Marshall 909-816-3441 mrsbryant@msn.com