Hey guys, I just figured it was time to start putting out some feelers to see if anyone would be interested in sharing a hotel room for Jubilee? If you’re interested please email me skirossi@gmail.com. Thanks!

-Erin

I know at least a few of you out there are going to be at Penn-Ohio this year.  I’m curious if anyone out there would be interested in splitting/sharing a hotel room?  If so, please email me, skirossi@gmail.com.  Thanks!

-Erin

A little bird told me (via email–really smart bird!) that priceline.com has some good deals for hotels in OKC during the time of the Grand Nationals.  I, personally, have never used priceline.com but plan on checking it out once my plans are finalized.  I usually stay at the Candlewood Suites as they allow pets, have a little food pantry, laundry and REALLY comfy beds.

Just thought I’d pass that along. 

My information about hotels in the Springfield area is limited, but I wanted to share the following.  The show’s designated headquarters is the Courtyard Marriott which is located in the heart of Springfield, a 10 – 15 minute drive from the fairgrounds. (All of the other hotels listed in the prize list are also a 10 minute drive from the grounds, but the others are all near the interstate, at the next exit going west.)  Getting to the Mariott can be a little tricky because of the one-way streets, but it’s a straight shot back to the fairgrounds.  They had a special rate of $72 plus tax, per night.  The rooms were quite nice and of average size.  The beds and pillows are very comfortable.  The hotel provides foam earplugs in every room for those who are unable to sleep through the noise of the trains passing in the night.  The trains can be heard everywhere in Springfield, so this is a thoughtful and useful amenity for those of us who do not sleep so well away from home.  The lobby is above average with fresh flowers, nice artwork, and comfortable chairs.  Parking in the hotel lot is close-by and free.  The only down-side is that they do NOT allow pets. 

For anyone with the time to do a little sightseeing while in Springfield, the Mariott is just a couple of blocks from the Westcott House, which is a home designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright, in the Prairie style.  It was recently restored and is open to the public for tours.  Their giftshop has some lovely items such as jewelry and men’s ties that reflect themes found in the house, in addition to books about Frank Lloyd Wright and his architecture. 

According to the AMHA website Latest News, Fred Nava, the Show Manager for the 2008 Grand Nationals, met with officials from OKC hotels to generate support for this year’s Grand Nationals.  In the article, “News From Grand National Show Manager, Fred Nava“, a list of the participating hotels is provided, with each one being rated based on its level of participation in the sponsorship program.  Fred was also able to provide some general information about some of the hotels, such as updates and and renovations.

To see the article go to the AMHA website.  If you have any other information about any of the hotels listed or other hotels you do or do not recommend in OKC (or other cities) , please feel free to comment here or post in the “Hotels” catagory.

With Morgan Show season starting next month everyone is beginning to think about what hotels they will be booking when they travel and, if it is a show they have never been to, what other amenities are in the area.  I would like to start Morgan Horse Show “Hotel”  and  Show “Restaurant/Area Attractions” categories, where users can post what hotels they have used and what there is in that area, recommending a particular place or not.  Knowing things like the beds are uncomfortable, pets aren’t allowed, or a certain restaurant is open late is helpful information to have prior to getting to the show.  

The Maine Morgan Horse Show (July 4-6, 2008) has moved to Deerfield Fairgrounds in Deerfield, NH. Bernard Parker will judge the Breeder’s Cup, In Hand, Leadline, Walk Trot, Park Saddle, Park Harness, Natural Park, Equitation, English Pleasure, Road Hack, Classic Pleasure Driving, and Pleasure Driving. John Bennett will judge the Breeder’s Cup, In Hand, Equitation, Classic Pleasure Saddle, Hunter Pleasure, Western Pleasure, Carriage, and Trail. The judge for Dressage Divisions, Justin Morgan, Sport Horse Cup, and Sport Horse In Hand is to be announced. In addition to the regular show schedule, Breeder and Sport Horse Cup Classes and a new carriage division will be featured.

The 20th annual New York Morgan Stallion Service Auction will be held at the Saratoga Hotel in Saratoga Springs, Saratoga, NY on Feb. 2, 2008. Many high quality Morgan stallion breedings will be available for bidding as well as many additional items, including ads, videos, and photo shoots. Online bidding is available now. For a list of stallions and other important information go to the NY Morgan Stallion Service Auction site.