09/10/2024
Updates on the Transition from Flying Change Farm to QD Pride Farm
Dear Friends,
I thought I’d send you an update on how things are going over at the former Flying Change Farm, soon to be QD Pride Farm. Many of you have expressed interest in returning to the beautiful spot where Diane Schoonmaker taught so many people to ride. I know we have kept you waiting to hear when we will be opening so I thought I’d give you all an update and let you know what we have been doing to get ready to welcome those of you who would like to return.
Along with my parents, David and Barbara, and my boyfriend, DJ, I have been busy updating and making some changes to the farm before we reopen. We have been installing some wooden fencing for boarders, have built a cross ties area to saddle up your horse, and tack lockers in the tack room. I am very excited to be adding to the beautiful farm that Diane created.
We purchased a wonderful beginner lesson pony, Disco. He is super sweet and gentle with children and will be great for beginner riders and younger children.
I’ve been riding ever since I was 5 years old and have lots of experience working with horses in lots of different settings. I went to an equine program in college and have had different jobs in the field ever since. This May, after we purchased the farm, I did a weeklong riding certification program with the CHA (Certified Horsemanship Association) and am now officially a certified horseback riding teacher.
Needless to say, there has been much business to attend to: putting our insurance in place, setting up a bank account, etc. So many things go into starting up a farm business. I am learning more every day!
We plan to have our fencing completed in the next couple of weeks, after which we’ll be open for additional boarders and folks who would like to trailer in to ride.
I am still working at my job as a vet assistant at Rhinebeck Equine four days a week as I transition into running the farm full time. This means I will need some more time to get the horses in shape for lessons. I think, realistically, it will be a bit longer before I am ready to start teaching lessons.
I will keep you posted on exact dates!
Please keep in touch and let me know what you are interested in.
You can contact me at [email protected] or text me at 646-571-9610
Look forward to seeing you!
Naomi Lopato
