#16 September Blips

Hello bloggers! It's busy, busy, busy in the Light Center office with September programming well underway. I figured I'd save a little time by simply dividing the blog by topics.

Fundraising~
Lots of people have been asking me, "who won the Corvette??" Well, if you're asking that question then you can join the ranks of everybody at the Light Center because none of us won it either! :) The lucky winner of the 1961 Red Corvette was Jason Ballard of Canton, IL. And no, we don't know him so a ride is apparently out of the question too. Oh well...there's always next year!
And if you unfortunately missed our Anvil Club event Sept 7, then you missed an absolutely lovely day in the picturesque Anvil Club Veranda. Without a doubt, this was one of the nicest and easiest events we've ever done; cocktails and conversation, sunshine and shade in equal amounts, hors d'oeuvres and happy people~ What more could one ask for?? Whether you joined us or not, thank you, thank you to all who participated in our recent events!

Animal Farm~
I've also had a lot of inquiries regarding our new mini-mule, "Nellie." To date, Nellie has adjusted well, is taking carrots from staff and participants alike, and follows Toto around throughout participant sessions. She even lets kids pet her gently, although she's not quite ready for the big hugs Toto allows and shamelessly solicits. I can honestly say, Nellie seems happy; and after all the abuse and neglect she suffered, that is huge in itself.
Oh, and if you're a Carmel the goat lover; our poor little guy is dealing with a broken jaw most likely the result of a kick from one of the horses. We've always said he doesn't stay where he belongs, so chances are he ticked off somebody in the field. The vet's been here and we've figured out a whole recuperative plan; most of which Carmel is not too hot about... It's amazing how fast an injured goat can run when it's time for an injection! Anyway, he's hopefully on the mend so we'll keep ya posted!

The kids~
Yes they're back and we're busier than ever! We've recently added new staff so many kids and instructors are still getting acquainted. The animals are such good buffers and they give everyone a common starting point, so dealing with change at TLC is usually a no-brainer. And speaking of change, our whole gang is involved with the production of a new "transitions" unit that will hopefully be ready for marketing sometime in 2009. Most of the plans will remain "top-secret," but rest assured TLC is really marching to the economic drummer of the times!
As to actual sessions; in the field today, one of our more docile boys decided today was the day he was going to catch and halter our pony Daisy. (This kid barely moves, much less runs..) Apparently, (and completely out-of-character,) he chased her down the fence line throwing his arms around her neck to slow her down. And low and behold, he caught her, haltered her, and proudly brought her back to the barn!!! This may not sound like a big deal to you, but for him it was unbelievable!!

Staff
This one is happy/sad.......After 5 years of dedicated service to TLC, our bookkeeper and administrative assistant, Irene Zelasko,is leaving us to explore the "post-little-kids" job force. With their 2 boys now in high school, Irene and husband Walt agreed it's time to get serious about upcoming college tuition. Although I knew this day was always coming, the sting is still painful. Irene and I have shared a brain in so many ways throughout TLC's developmental years; it's hard to imagine she won't be (literally) behind me when I swivel my chair. Irene will be genuinely missed, but from the heart we wish her well as she (like our kids) "transitions" into a new phase of life. Ok, enough~ It's hard to type through tearful eyes. We'll all miss her~

Join TLC~
This one's a plug for your help... If you know someone looking for a great part-time job, lives close to Union, and loves kids and horses; drop me a line! We're currently reorganizing and have a number of positions available. This is perfect for a licensed counselor who wants to get out of the traditional rut. Our current counselors love this work, so the job comes well recommended.
We're also looking for experienced horse people that have a background in either social service work or the education field.
And ALWAYS... talk us up for donor support and help us spread the word about our unique services. Many of our referrals come from folks like you who mention us during other conversations. Word-of-mouth is our best resource and we hope you'll help us keep up the dialogue!

Well that's about it for now~ Whew! This got long!!!! Recruitment is the word of the day so jump in and help us round out our terrific staff! Working here isn't a job; it's a passion!
Jan :)