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2008 MN Horse Expo Speakers/Demos III
Times and topics subject to change.
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UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA SPEAKERS

 Katherine Thompson

For the past ten years, equine consultant, clinician, animal communicator and certified clairvoyant healer Katherine Windfeather-Thompson has assisted people in resolving their health, behavior, and relationship problems with their animals; particularly horses.

In the first part of her lecture presentation, Katherine will point out the true significance of animal communication, and where those implications will eventually lead us. From her perspective, it is clearly evident that we are moving through one of the most significant periods of growth and evolution in our history.

In the second part, she will expand on her premise that it’s all about healing emotional issues. Horses, as well as other animals we are close to, mirror issues we have on an emotional level that will manifest for them in a physical or behavioral problem. As she has become increasingly more aware of this, she’s re-defined who they are in relationship to us, more cognizant than ever of their incredibly important connection. We cannot fail to acknowledge that they are our teachers and healers.

She’ll share many of the remarkable things she has learned along the path she’s walked, since making the transition from life as a professional race horse trainer to that of an animal communicator and clairvoyant healer. These experiences led her to publish her first book, When Doves Cried, and Horses Wept, which is receiving unexpected acclaim amongst a broad readership nationwide.  It is available in most major book stores, and on-line.

Katherine resides in Reno, Nevada, and is currently working on her second book. www.katherinethompson.net

Paul Kurvers
Park manager, Wild River State Park

Trail Riding Trifecta: Where to Ride in Minnesota to See It All

Park Manager Paul Kurvers’ favorite horseback riding memory is of a beautiful autumn day. Surrounded by the vivid reds and oranges of fall, they rode; their horses’ feet shuffling through crisp leaves. “Then the horses froze,” Paul recalls. “Their heads went up; ears forward; completely still.” Next, he saw what held the horses’ attention, “A huge, magnificent buck was standing there, staring at the horses. They all stood spellbound for a solid two minutes, as if they were trying to figure out who the other was. No one wanted to make a move.” Finally, curiosity satisfied, the large buck rambled away. “It was perfect,” Paul recounts. “You had the beauty of nature, wildlife and riding — everything you could want.” In this presentation, Paul hopes to guide you to destinations where you’ll find your perfect riding moment. Drawing from a deep knowledge of Minnesota landscapes gained as a Minnesota State Parks naturalist and park manager, the insights that come from managing horse campgrounds and trails, and first-hand experience as a rider, Paul will present an overview of stunning riding opportunities available throughout the state. And Minnesota offers a rare experience — a trifecta of trail riding. Minnesota is virtually the only state that contains all three of North America’s major landscapes within its borders. Your rides will take you through open, rolling prairie, hardwood forests that change with the seasons and fragrant pine forests — a combination of experiences no other state can offer. Minnesota state parks, forests and trails provide horse riders with access to a great diversity of scenic beauty. Paul will highlight these opportunities for horseback riding and equestrian camping, provide tips (such as where you can camp in the height of summer and not be bothered by mosquitoes) and will provide the information and resources you’ll need when planning your next trip.

Paul Kurvers has made full use of his knowledge and appreciation of nature and animals by becoming a park manager for Minnesota State Parks. This appreciation has roots in the strong rural background Paul acquired growing up on a farm in Chanhassen. Paul holds a Bachelor of Science degree in environmental interpretation, with a minor in biology. His first position involving the great outdoors was in Alaska as assistant park ranger. Paul returned to Minnesota, where he became a naturalist for Minnesota State Parks. Getting to know the terrain of four parks — situated in such diverse areas as the tall grass prairies, blufflands and valleys of southern Minnesota to the deep forests of northern Minnesota to the metro area where the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers meet — provided Paul with a profound knowledge of Minnesota landscapes. This experience led to positions as park manager of Nerstrand Big Woods and Afton state parks. In February 2007, Paul was named park manager of Wild River State Park. It seems fitting that Paul should call Wild River State Park his office, as it has been one of his favorite places to ride. As an equestrian, Paul has traveled throughout Minnesota, camping and riding at many of Minnesota’s state parks, forests and trails. Paul has translated this passion for horses into improving opportunities for riders; in addition to overseeing an equestrian campground, he is a member of the DNR’s Division of Parks and Recreation (Minnesota State Parks) Equestrian Work Group, which studies equestrian issues as they relate to park management. Paul’s experiences in managing horse facilities and trails, and in the pursuits of riding and equestrian camping have cultivated unique insights into trail riding in Minnesota.

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