I've been scratching my head trying to figure out what is the connection between polo and puppies. In a moment of clarity it came to me that there isn't one, and yet there is.
The Cascade Polo Club and the US Polo Association (USPA) will be taking to the turf at Camp Fraley Ranch on August 21 to show the majesty of their sport to Central Oregon. The superb horses, the talented players and the quirky traditions (what's with the hats?) will all be on exhibit to the attendees.
Upon choosing their venue, the Cascade Polo Club selected four local non-profit organizations to share in the proceeds of its event. One of the selected groups is the Humane Society of Redmond. There's the puppy tie-in. Like so many organizations that choose Central Oregon as the location for national and regional events, the USPA will also be here to avail themselves of our pleasant weather, groomed venues, and an inquisitive population willing to experience polo up close. But again, like so many other groups, they leave a larger footprint than when they arrive. The USPA's generosity in sharing the admission fees and allowing groups to exhibit their wares and speak about their missions will bring new interest to these worthy organizations and leave them more able to meet their worthy goals.
For the Humane Society of Redmond we have the opportunity to not only share financially in the admission fees through a voucher system, but also to speak to the attendees about the work we do on behalf of the neediest animals in our area. These opportunities are important to us and all non-profits that struggle to make contacts while riding on the coattails of others. Many of us just don't have the resources to put on an event with the attendance of a polo match. For selecting our organization we are indebted to Mr. and Mrs. Fraley, owners of Camp Fraley Ranch and Dr. Dan Harrison, Cascade Polo Club. The puppies thank you as well.
Don Wayne, Humane Society of Redmond Board of Directors
