Equus Effect: healing with horses

Jane Strong conducting exercises with horse Dutch.
Sava Marinkovic
Jane Strong conducting exercises with horse Dutch.
SHARON — Every day, approximately 20 United States military veterans take their own lives. It was an awareness of this statistic that led Jane Strong and David Sonatore to found the Equus Effect, an equine experiential learning and coaching facility in Sharon, in 2012. Since then, over 1800 veterans, first responders, and others who live or work in high-stress environments have moved through the Equus Effect’s curriculum, acquiring — through contact with horses — the tools to improve communication and compassion, and to navigate the challenges, subtleties, and nuanced relationships of civilian life.
On Saturday, Sept. 7, supporters of the Equus Effect gathered under its round pen’s rainy eaves to learn and observe just why horses are uniquely suited to this restorative work.
“A relationship with a horse is based purely on trust,” said Strong, lead program facilitator and a former competitive rider, “they ask us to engage all our senses and be totally present.” The horse, a prey animal, is profoundly attuned to the emotional and nervous energy of its surroundings as a matter of survival; it is also expressive, honest, and unselfconscious.
When in conversation with a human, a horse asks for the same in return. Approaching a horse, one’s outward and inner aspects must be congruent in order not to unnerve the animal. “You can’t hide behind a mask,” said Strong, explaining that this need for transparency helps people overcome the fear and stigma that cause emotional repression.
Further, work with horses engages the entire body, revealing where trauma might appear stuck. “Our limbic systems work outside time,” said Strong, locating the primitive, lower-order parts of the brain responsible for emotional processing. “So there’s no ‘talking you out’ of trauma.” Instead, work with horses helps those “stuck” with trauma to “move through it and release it through action.”
Huddled around the pen, attendees of the Fall Event were walked through some of these actions and their benefits by program facilitators, alongside horses Dutch, Tango, Lance, and Babe.
Using only body language — such as posture, purposeful eye contact, and controlled breathing — facilitators asked horses to back up, move forward, and walk circles. With patience, and applying the principle of “minimum essential pressure,” horses were coaxed into collaboration with the facilitators, showcasing the massive mammals’ capacity for empathy, partnership, and quiet understanding. In addition to their emotional grounding effect, these exercises help participants build tools for the maintenance of fair, trust-based relationships with other people.
“The connection is deep, almost spiritual,” said 2022 program participant Peter Gworek, a military veteran. “The horses teach you how to manage your energy, connect with your inner self, and be calm.” Also a 2022 alum, veteran Melodie Wilson said that when one is handling a horse, “you can’t think of anything else — you slow down, learn to be more understanding.”
Ultimately, understanding — of oneself and of others — is the key to bridging the divide that Strong says exists between veterans and civilians. Working within that gap are horses, our companions of nearly 6,000 years, who Sonatore points out “might just save the life of someone you one day need to save yours.”
Right, David Sonatore (on stage, left), Jane Strong (stage, right), and veteran and first responder program graduates, wearing sashes.Sava Marinkovic
The Silo Bakery offers a warm welcoming entrance, along with a bakery aroma and extraordinarily inviting, freshly baked pastries.
For those seeking a relaxed respite with exquisite French baked delicacies paired with expertly brewed coffees, tea and more, The Silo Bakery awaits a visit.
Since it opened on Thursday, July 10, The Silo Bakery in Amenia has been discovered by area residents and visitors alike, all drawn to its casual, streetside ambiance. Conversation is unrushed in the company of a generous display of baked goods, including croissants and “cronuts,” the latter a cross between a croissant and a doughnut.
“At its core, the bakery is about connection,” commented a Silo Ridge representative in a statement describing the mission of the enterprise.
“It’s about creating a space that brings people together and gives back to the community in a meaningful way. We are committed to making a difference — one croissant at a time,” the statement continued.
According to sales records, the chocolate croissants are a “fan favorite.” Surely worth a try.
Renowned pastry chef Thomas Croizé is at the helm of the flour artistry, having imagined a menu that includes a variety of brewed Illy Café coffees, breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and lunch offerings of soup or sandwiches made with in-house breads — incorporating local ingredients with an eye toward seasonality.
Highlighted among the signature pastries are, of course, croissants — including a chocolate variety using single-origin chocolate — and quickbreads such as banana bread touted to be “like you have never had before.”
There are cakes, tortes and fruit tarts, cheesecakes, cookies and brownies. Special occasion cakes can be ordered.
Pies to be tried include Cinnamon and Fresh Cherry Crumble Pie and Fresh Local Blueberry crispy-top pie.
There are also many choices for customers who prefer or require gluten-free selections.
Food has been a lifelong interest for pastry chef Croizé beginning with his childhood in France and leading to his current position as pastry chef at the Silo Ridge Field Club — and by extension, The Silo Bakery. He was born and raised in a small village near Paris where he observed his mother cooking in the family kitchen augmented by frequent visits with his grandparents in Normandy where he watched his grandfather tending the garden and preserving the harvest. From that early experience, he gained an understanding and appreciation seasonality.
Croizé’s training in culinary arts and hospitality was based in France, with additional experience gained in important kitchens in France, Monaco and New York. He taught at the Culinary Arts Institute in Hyde Park, New York in 2022 before coming to Silo Ridge.
The Silo Bakery is located at 3304 Route 343 in Amenia, partway down the hill from the post office. Bakery hours are Thursday through Sunday, 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For more information, go to www.silobakery.com.
The Millerton Business Alliance's annual Summer Stroll is set to return to Main Street this Saturday, Aug. 9, coinciding with the Oblong Bookstore's 50th anniversary block party in downtown Millerton.
MILLERTON — The Millerton Summer Stroll returns for its third year on Saturday, Aug. 9, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. along Main Street. Community members and visitors are invited to enjoy special sales, activities for kids, complimentary refreshments and a classic, small-town vibe.
This year’s event is intentionally timed to coincide with Oblong Books’ 50th Birthday Bash, with the Stroll dovetailing into a block party on South Center Street.
“The Summer Stroll is nice because you’re working together with the people in your town,” said Dana Scarpa, co-chair of the Millerton Business Alliance. She noted that each business adds its own flair to the day — whether through free food, crafts or other surprises.
“It’s a way of bringing our community together,” she added. “And to focus our day on Oblong Books — and co-founder Dick Hermans — is wonderful. Oblong is truly the staple in our town as they’ve been here for 50 years.” Scarpa added that Dick Hermans was actually the driving force behind the Millerton Business Alliance, noting that it speaks to his passion for local business and community.
With the Summer Stroll and Oblong’s block party combined, attendees can expect live music, great food, friendly faces and a festive atmosphere in downtown Millerton this weekend.
Fixing Louie’s bridle
Whether you’re a young rider, a parent, or simply horse-curious, the Lakeville Pony Club is inviting the public to get a behind-the-scenes look at its long-standing equestrian tradition. Founded in 1956, the club will host an Open House on Tuesday, August 12, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Riga Meadow Equestrian Centerin Amenia, NY. Guests are welcome to arrive early to watch the club in action, meet the horses, chat with current members, and learn more about the club’s programs and history.
Riga Meadow is run by Linda Bushnell, a Pony Club graduate herself. Originally situated on Route 41 in Salisbury, The Club moved to Amenia in 2018 after the Salisbury property was sold.
The Club’s current membership includes children from the towns of the Northwest Corner of Connecticut, as well as New York and Massachusetts, representing a broad range of ages (7 to 18) and abilities, from beginners to advanced riders. Although some members own or lease their own horse, owning a horse is not required and most members use the stable’s horses, or the dedicated Pony Club horse, Quincy.
The Club is led by parent volunteers, with support from both the national and regional offices. There are certifications, much like scout badges, as the kids are tested for their knowledge of horses, stable management, and riding skills. Since the knowledge testing involves oral presentations, the kids learn how to stand up and present to their peers. They also learn marketable skills—horse care and stable management—that they can parlay into earning extra money by working at Riga Meadow and other area barns in need of help. Some go on to become professionals in the equine industry, while others pursue careers in medicine or veterinary school. The Club produces some real high achievers!
Pony Club offers opportunities for members to participate in local and regional competitions. A highlight is the annual Halloween party, where Pony Clubbers and their horses are in full costume, competing for prizes. There’s also summer camp — a concentrated week where younger riders are mentored by older ones, and everyone learns and competes in a supportive environment.
Here are some of the things the Club’s kids have said about their belonging to Pony Club:
“I love to meet all the different people and learn new things with people who share my passion.”
“It’s like a family – everyone is there for each other.”
“I love riding with a group of friends.”
“I love the ability to try new things and learn through experience.”
“I love the team competition and being able to help each other.”
Finally, mark your calendars. The Club’s annual horse show, the Lakeville Open, will be on the Riga Meadow property on Sunday, September 7. The show runs all day and admission is free.
For further information and updates on this event, visit facebook.com/LakevillePonyClub/.
The renovated home at 208 Old Route 22 with 3 bedrooms and 1.5 baths in the hamlet of Wassaic sold for $341,000 in June to William H. Bontecou.
AMENIA — The titles to five properties were exchanged in Amenia in the month of June.
After a pause this spring in transfers at Silo Ridge, a 5,800 square foot home was sold for $13 million.
The $1,625,000 purchase of 40 acres of productive agricultural land on Depot Hill Road — at $40,625 an acre — was the other multi-million dollar sale.
The three single family sales were more representative of the Amenia market where the rolling 12-month median sale stood at $320,000 in June.
Depot Hill Road (#515033) — 40 acres of productive agricultural land sold for $1,625,000.
14 Sparrow View Drive, Silo Ridge Field Club — 6 bedroom/6 full bath/2 half 5,817 square foot home built in 2022 on .83 acres with 3 fireplaces and a pool sold for $13 million.
24 Under Mount Drive — 3 bedroom/2 bath home on .32 acres remodeled in 2005 sold for $285,000.
208 Old Route 22 — 3 bedroom/1.5 bath home on .29 acres sold for $341,000.
35 Prospect Ave. — 4 bedroom/2 bath home on .75 acres sold for $439,000.
* Town of Amenia property transfers in June are sourced from Dutchess County Real Property Office monthly reports. Details on parcels from Dutchess Parcel Access. Compiled by Christine Bates, Real Estate Advisor with William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty, Licensed in Connecticut and New York.