HORSECAPITAL
D I G E S T TM
801 SW 60th Avenue Fax: (352) 867-1979 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF MANAGING EDITOR CONTRIBUTING EDITOR-INDUSTRY & COMMUNITY AFFAIRS ART DIRECTOR ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT PRODUCTION PRINT TECH OPERATIONS & FACILITIES
CEO & PUBLISHER DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION & OPERATIONS CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Ocala, Florida 34474 • (352) 732-8858 e-mail: info@wiretowire.net • www.ftboa.com Brock Sheridan Mike Mullaney Tammy A. Gantt John D. Filer Antoinette Griseta Emily Mills, Nancy Moffatt Jeff Powell
LONNY TAYLOR POWELL E. JANE MURRAY CAROLINE T. DAVIS
Florida Equine Communications, Inc. (A corporation owned by the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association)
Executive Office – 801 SW 60th Avenue Ocala, Florida 34474 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Horse Capital Digest is published monthly by Florida Equine Communications, 801 S.W. 60th Ave., Ocala, Florida 34474. Advertising rates available upon request. All rights reserved. Reproduction of contents without permission prohibited. Opinions expressed in Horse Capital
BRENT FERNUNG, PRESIDENT/BOARD CHAIRMAN PHIL MATTHEWS, DVM, 1ST VICE PRESIDENT GEORGE RUSSELL, 2ND VICE PRESIDENT GREG WHEELER, SECRETARY JOSEPH M. O’FARRELL III, TREASURER Digest are those of the individual authors and are not necessarily those of the editors and owners of this publication. Horse Capital Digest attempts to print reliable results and entries. Printed by Florida Equine Communications
AMERICAN HORSE PUBLICATIONS • FLORIDA MAGAZINE ASSOCIATION • MEMBER BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU
FLORIDA THOROUGHBRED BREEDERS’ AND OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT CEO & EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT FIRST VICE PRESIDENT SECOND VICE PRESIDENT SECRETARY TREASURER DIRECTORS
Brent Fernung Lonny Taylor Powell Phil Matthews, DVM George Russell Greg Wheeler Joseph M. O’Farrell III Barry Berkelhammer, Fred Brei, Gil Campbell, Mark Casse, Valerie Dailey, Sheila DiMare, George Isaacs, Richard Kent, Milan Kosanovich, Diane Parks PAST PRESIDENTS Don Dizney, Harold Plumley, Stanley Ersoff, John C. Weber,MD, Douglas Oswald CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER/ ASSISTANT TREASURER Caroline T. Davis ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT/ MEMBER SERVICES & EVENTS Tammy A. Gantt
DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION & OPERATIONS
E. Jane Murray
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT/ ASSISTANT SECRETARY Becky Robinson MEMBERSHIP SERVICES & EVENTS COORDINATOR Sally Moehring REGISTRATIONS & PAYMENTS COORDINATOR Sheila Budden
www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest 3
HORSECAPITAL DIGEST
CONTENTS 5
Letter from the Publisher
6
Emergency Preparedness
12 Breed Spotlight: Morgans 16 Top Reasons We Are The Horse Capital 22 Art & Horses 36 Arts: The Lawn Jockey Lady 44 Global: Trekking Africa on Horseback 46 Community: Horse Capital Supports Texas
IN EVERY ISSUE: 5 12 40 44 46
Saluting Leaders for Equines Breed Spotlight Equine Events Global Community
about the
cover
Arts and horses go hand in hand and the art they represent can be found throughout the county, if you just look.
Brought to you by Horse Capital Digest of Ocala/Marion County, The Horse Capital of the World®.
4 Horse Capital Digest • September 2017
Letter from the Publisher
SALUTING LEADERS FOR EQUINES Jaye Baillie
Dear Horse Capital Digest readers, We are pleased to announce that Horse Capital Digest is expanding to a monthly edition. We know many of you have enjoyed Horse Capital Digest as the official publication of HITS during the season January through March, so we are excited to expand it. HCD issues will be monthly, with the exception of mid-December through March, where the publication will continue to be published weekly to keep up with all the activities during the HITS show season. The expanded year-round monthly edition will be distributed to the Marion County area business community, tourist locations, hotels, restaurants and horse-related businesses. Each month a specific equine venue where major horse shows are being held will also be the target of distribution. The issue is also released online and shared on highly trafficked social media sites. The monthly Horse Capital Digest will focus on themed issues, a breed of the month, and a specific discipline to showcase the variety of equines and equine events available in the “Horse Capital of the World.” In addition, there is an extensive Equine Events section in which area events, breeds and venues are showcased. Event organizers can submit their events at HorseCapitalDigest@ftboa.com. The Digest also has a goal of engaging the business community to showcase the support the non-equine businesses play in the Horse Capital. Special features include Leaders & Equines and Business Profiles highlighting leaders and businesses who support horse events. The publication also accepts photos for consideration for each breed of the month. This September edition features “Art & Horses” and also the Morgan horse. Many of us fondly remember the “little horse that could”, a little Morgan horse from the Disney movie, “Justin Morgan had a Horse.” Each monthly edition includes a bonus distribution of the publication. The September bonus distribution will be at the Florida Equine Institute and Allied Trade Show and regional Morgan Horse Show at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. The publication is supported by readers but also by our advertisers. We encourage readers to support the advertisers in this issue and also to consider advertising their products, services, restaurants, clubs, etc. with us. Each advertiser shows support of the equine industry and in turn the industry supports the community. Advertising information is available at HorseCapitalDigest@ftboa.com or visit www.ftboa.com and under the NEWS column select ADVERTISE. Hoping to see you in the pages of Horse Capital Digest soon,
Lonny T. Powell, Publisher
We salute the Marion Cultural Alliance Executive Director Jaye Baillie for her years of making a difference in the Horse Capital of the World. Since the age of 3, Jaye has called Marion County home, well before it became known as the “Horse Capital of the World”. For many years, Jaye served as the president of the Ocala/Marion County Chamber of Commerce and under her direction earned a five-star accreditation in 2006. During her tenure at the Chamber, she was also actively involved with Horse Fever, the first public art exhibition of its kind in the county. The horses dot the city’s landscape to this day. The Horse Fever fundraiser led to the creation of the Marion Cultural Alliance with the mission to be the catalyst and advocate for cultural impact in the community. In 2004, she was presented with the Bruce Campbell Award awarded by the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ & Owners’ Association. The award is only issued periodically to a truly deserving person who has brought honor and recognition to the Florida thoroughbred industry. In 2017, as MCA director, Jaye supported “Hometown Derby Heroes”, an exhibition with FTBOA, showcasing the talent of the areas’ horses that competed in the Kentucky Derby. In addition, she has been active in Leadership Ocala, is credited with starting the Golden Apple Academy and is a Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) member, accreditation in public relations and professional development. With this issue being the arts issue, it seems appropriate that Jaye working in the arts would receive this month’s salute! Each issue, Horse Capital Digest salutes a leader who has made a difference in the Horse Capital of the World. Nominate a leader who has made a difference in the equine world. Submit your nominee’s name, occupation and why they should be honored to HorseCapitalDigest@ftboa.com www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest 5
6 Horse Capital Digest • September 2017
Equine Emergency Preparedness Courtesy of Virginia Cooperative Extension, Virginia Tech and Virginia State University
I
n the event of a disaster, it’s very important for you as a horse owner to have preplanned actions and proper information to enable you to make rapid decisions that may save your horses and even your own life. The following general guidelines will help you become better prepared.
Assess Your Risks There are a wide variety of accidents or disasters that could affect different areas of the country. Take time to evaluate the region in which you live and assess which risks you are more likely to encounter. Examples of widespread disasters include floods, fires, tornadoes, hurricanes, nuclear accidents, disease threats, chemical spills, and ice storms. Typical accidents or other emergency situations may include escaped animals and horses – with or without riders – hit by a car or stuck in ditches, mud, or water. For each type of disaster, ask yourself the following questions: • What are your major vulnerabilities? • What can you do to minimize the damage? • What plans do you have in place? • Who do you need to contact?
Before an Event Plan ahead. Hopefully it will be the best wasted time of your life and you’ll never have to enact your emergency plan. However, if you do need to take action, you’d rather be prepared. Start by taking a careful look at your property and identifying the best place to locate your animals for each type of disaster you consider. Check for alternate water sources. You want to be able to have enough fresh water and hay available to last for at least 48-72 hours. Prepare for the possibility that you might need to evacuate both yourself and your horses. Check with your local law enforcement, animal control, or Agricultural Extension agent for routes and recommendations. Several locations should be identified ahead of time, and you will want to know the entry requirements for each. Be sure to have agreements arranged for your animals in advance. Nothing is worse than needing to move your horses and having no way to get them out. Keep trailers and vans well maintained and full of fuel, ready to go. If you don’t have enough trailer space to move all your animals at one time, make arrangements with a neighbor or professional horse hauling company. You will want to have contracts in place in advance, because making arrangements at the last minute in an emergency situation is often impossible. Make sure to keep www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest 7
current and adequate insurance coverage on all vehicles. Animal identification: Prepare an identification packet for each horse, including information on their age, sex, breed, color, registrations, unique identifying marks, photos, microchip numbers, etc. Write down any special feeding instructions, list any medications with dosage, and record the name and phone number of your prescribing veterinarian. Be sure all vaccinations and medical records are in writing and up to date. Have a current Coggins test, which you will need if your horse has to be moved to get to safety. If you’re going across state lines, you may need a health certificate along with a copy of your Coggins test. If you leave, take your records with you. Records left at home may be damaged or destroyed during a disaster. If you become separated from your horse in a disaster or emergency, permanent identification such as a tattoo, microchip, or brand will help reunite you, as well as provide proof that the animal is yours. If disaster strikes before you can do this, find another way to get your information onto the animal. Use leg or break-away neck bands with your contact information or braid a waterproof luggage tag into the mane or tail to help identify your horse. You can also paint or etch the hooves; write the information down, seal it in a Ziplock-type plastic bag, and then secure it to the halter with duct tape; or paint your telephone number on the side of the animal using livestock paint. Finally, consider an event where you might by unable to evacuate all your animals. Make a priority list and familiarize both 8 Horse Capital Digest • September 2017
family and farm personnel with the list in case you are not present when the disaster occurs. Seventy-two-hour emergency kit, first-aid kit, and emergency tools: The 72-hour emergency kit is designed to help you ride out the immediate impact of a disaster, making certain that essentials are provided for. A plastic trash barrel with lid can be used for a multitude of things and can store many of the items in the kit when it’s not needed. Pack one or two tarpaulins for protection and a couple of water buckets. If you have time to prepare, make sure to have enough hay, feed, and water for each horse for at least three days stored safely – though a week would be better. It is very possible that roads will be closed because of downed power lines and trees, limiting access to feed stores. Cover hay with waterproof tarps and place it on pallets to reduce the chance of the hay sitting in water and keep grain in water-tight containers. Each horse will need 12-20 gallons of water per day. Fill all the water troughs and buckets. Additional water can be stored in garbage cans with plastic liners. You might want to consider purchasing a generator to run the well if you have a large number of horses. Have a packed first-aid kit in the emergency supplies and consider one for the trailer as well. Your basic first-aid kit should include the following: • Exam gloves • Betadine or Nolvasan solutions for cleaning and disinfecting wounds
• Antibiotic ointment • Sterile gauze pads • Absorbent dressings • Cotton leg wraps and Vetrap bandaging tape/standing wraps to secure them • Thermometer • Bandage scissors • Sterile saline • Knife and wire cutters • Duct tape • Fire-resistant leads and halters • Clean towels • Fly spray • Livestock markers or paint • Regular bleach (unscented, with hypochlorite as the only active ingredient; can be used to purify water for drinking*) • Lime (can be used for sanitation) • Portable radio • Flashlight • Extra batteries * To purify water, add eight drops of chlorine bleach per gallon of water and let it stand for 30 minutes before consuming. Emergency tools include such things as: • Chainsaw and fuel • Hammer and nails • Fence repair materials • Wire cutters • Pry bar • Fire extinguisher (see the section on fire safety for more information) Buddy system: Talk with a neighbor or friend and make arrangements to check on each other after a disaster. Tell one another if you are evacuating and to where so someone else will know where you are going. Buddies may agree to pool resources for such items as generators, water tanks, trailers, etc. You will also want to have a network of people outside the disaster area that you and your friends and neighbors can contact to check on each other, because the local communication infrastructure may be compromised and not available. Putting the plan into practice: When facing a potential disaster, remain calm and follow your plan! Remember: It is vitally important to evacuate early in any mandatory evacuation to avoid getting stalled in traffic and create unnecessary hardships.
After an Event Notify family, friends (your buddy), and officials that you are OK – whether you stayed or evacuated. Use phones, radios, the Internet, signs, or word of mouth. As soon as possible, take pictures or videotape of storm-damaged property for insurance claims.
Inspect your premises carefully before turning out horses. Look for foreign materials such as tin, glass or nails, downed trees or limbs, and damaged fences or power lines. Be careful leaving your animals unattended outside. Familiar scents and landmarks may be altered, and your horses could easily become confused and lost. Check with your local veterinarian or the state veterinarian’s office for information of any disease threats that may exist because of the situation. If your animals have been lost, or if you find someone else’s horses, you have several options. By contacting local horse owners, farriers, veterinarians, animal control, or the local disaster response team or by listening to the Emergency Broadcast System, you’ll most likely find out how to log lost or found animals. If you have lost horses, be prepared to identify them and document ownership. This is where your identification packet comes in handy. In the event that you find lost animals, use extreme caution in handling them. If possible, work in pairs for safety. Keep the lost horse(s) contained and isolated, and notify authorities as soon as possible.
Hurricanes Hurricanes bring a variety of weather-related dangers with them, particularly tornadoes and flooding. Leading causes of death in large animals related to hurricanes include animals killed in collapsed barns, electrocution, complications secondary
September Sale (9/1/17 – 9/30/17) RED CELL GALLON WAS $19.75 NOW $16.00 SHOWSHEEN GALLON WAS $34.50 NOW $26.50 BODY BUILDER WAS $69.00 NOW $55.00 MOSQUITO HALT GALLON WAS $59.00 NOW $48.00 DURAMECTIN 1.87% IVERMECTIN $2.45
ULTRA SHIELD GALLONS: ULTRASHIELD EX WAS $64.00 NOW $55.00 ULTRA SHIELD RED WAS $63.00 NOW $45.00 ULTRA SHIELD GREEN WAS $53.00 NOW $46.00 ULTRA SHIELD SPORT WAS $53.00 NOW $46.00
PYRANHA WIPE N’ SPRAY GALLON WAS $62.00 NOW $58.00 www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest 9
Hurricane Resources Marion County Animal Servicesl (352) 671-8700 • (352) 671-8727 Marion County Emergency Management (352) 369-8100 Marion County Agricultural Extension Agency (352) 620-3440 Orange County Animal Services Division (407) 352-4390 Identification Fetlock Bands (561) 795-2466 Local fire department Local police department Local Humane Society Your veterinarian Your preferred horse shipping company Your feed/hay provider
10 Horse Capital Digest • September 2017
to dehydration, animals hit and killed on roadways, and horses tangled in barbed wire after escaping from their pasture. As noted in the general disaster preparation section, each farm should have a written disaster plan to optimize the safety and survival of all animals.
Before the Storm Horses should be current on their vaccinations, particularly their tetanus toxoid vaccine. Some veterinarians will also recommend vaccinating against eastern or western equine encephalitis at the beginning of hurricane season due to the potential increase in the number of mosquitoes after a storm. All horses should also have a negative Coggins test, if only because the horse may need to be evacuated to a community shelter or cross state lines. A health certificate is also required to cross state lines, so one may be necessary for evacuation of coastal areas. Review the section on general disaster preparations for other details. Farm considerations: In addition to the general disaster preparation recommen-
dations, be sure to secure all movable objects and remove all items from hallways. Jumps and lawn furniture should be secured in a safe place. Place large vehicles, tractors, or trailers in an open field where trees cannot fall on them. Finally, turn off electrical power to barn. Evacuation plans: Evacuation of flood plains and coastal areas is usually recommended, and should occur 48 hours before hurricane-force winds occur in the area. Transportation of horses when wind gusts exceed 40 mph is dangerous, and trailers may not be allowed across bridges for safety reasons. If you can’t evacuate or choose not to, what is the best method for keeping your horses safe? Should horses be left in the pasture or placed in the barn? If the pasture has good fencing and limited trees, it is probably best to leave the horses outside. Do not keep horses in barbed wire or electric fencing during a storm. Trees with shallow roots will fall easily under hurricane-force winds and can injure the horse or destroy the fencing. Fire ants and snakes will search for higher ground during flooding. Carefully look over the premises and the feed for these potential dangers. Wellconstructed pole barns or concrete block barns may provide safety from flying debris, but the horses may become trapped if wind collapses the building. Keep horses out of pastures with power lines.
After the Storm Use the information under general disaster preparations to pick up the pieces and carry on.
Acknowledgements The authors would like to thank Watson Lawrence, ANR Extension agent, Virginia Cooperative Extension Chesapeake City Office; Crystal Smith, ANR Extension agent, Virginia Cooperative Extension Warren County Office; and Karen Iovino, D.V.M., Blue Ridge Veterinary Associates, for reviewing this document. HCD
12 Horse Capital Digest • September 2017
HCD
BREED SPOTLIGHT
Morgans:
An American Breed By Tammy A. Gantt
F
ounded in 1909, the Morgan Horse Club (as it was then called) was formed to support the Morgan breed. The club grew and evolved, and in 1971 underwent a reorganization and was renamed the American Morgan Horse Association, to reflect its increasing responsibilities. The American Morgan Horse Association Inc. exists to preserve, promote, and to perpetuate the Morgan horse. The newly formed association offices were in Hamilton, New York, for a number of years with brief moves to both New Hartford and Westmoreland, New York. In 1988, the Association established its headquarters in Shelburne, Vermont. There are approximately 90,000 living Morgans registered with AMHA. The Association carries out administration, promotion and education for the benefit of its members and the breed. AMHA serves approximately 7,000 active members, 50 recognized clubs, and 20 youth clubs.
Central Florida Morgans Morgans abound in Central Florida and the following pages provide simply a small glimpse into some of worldwide leaders with local connections.
MorganShowcase.com Morgans in Florida are synonymous with talThe famous Morgan horse, Justin Morgan, was honored with a large-scale statue on the U.S. Morgan Horse Farm. The statue was one of the first dedicated to solely a horse in the United States.
ented equestrian and marketer Tami Johnson. Born in Dearborn, Michigan and a graduate of William Woods University with degrees in Business Administration and Equestrian Science, she moved to the Ocala area in 2010 after 30 years in the St. Louis, Missiouri area. She is the owner of Masterworks Creative, a boutique advertising agency specializing in the equine industry with clients from coast to coast. Tami is also owner and developer of http://MorganShowcase.com, the internet’s leading Morgan horse sales venue. Tami grew up with Morgans living across the street from a woman who showed Morgans and Saddlebreds. After some lessons, Tami was sent to a Morgan barn in the area. “I had already developed a fancy for Morgans because I was a fan of all disciplines, but only had one horse. So that one horse showed western, saddle seat, hunt seat, etc. Discovering Morgans was great for me, they look beautiful and appropriate no matter what tack you put on them, “ she said. But her impact with the Morgan world does not stop there. She has enjoyed breeding, training and showing her own Morgans for over 40 years and is a member of the American Morgan Horse Association, the Florida Morgan Horse Association, and the United States Equestrian Federation. She is also a USEF “R” Morgan judge, having officiated in the US, England, Sweden and Canada for over 20 years. When she is not out performing with her horses, she is a professional equine photographer shooting at horse events around Ocala, and farm shoots on location for clients from Florida to New England. Tami also serves on the Board and is former president of the Marion Therapeutic Riding Association (MTRA). www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest 13
PHOTO PROVIDED BY PARKHURST
Hi-Time Farm Ironically, another top Morgan horse competitor Betty Gray, also works in therapy riding with her Stirrups and Strides program. At 16, Betty opened her first boarding and training stable in New York. She started showing horses at age nine and was very active in 4-H. She showed western, hunters and open Jumpers as a teenager. However, she started training and showing Morgans in 1965. After marrying into Florida in 1971, she opened a Morgan training and show barn under the banner of Hi-Time Farm. She became a recognized Morgan judge in 1995. Stirrups ‘n Strides Therapeutic Riding Center became based at Hi-Time Farm in Orange Lake, Fla., in 2007. The program now has 15 horses, 3 arenas and over 60 clients. While her lifelong dream of working with horses occurred more than 55 years ago, therapeutic riding has become her new first love as she helps as many people as possible with disabilities to overcome their challenges in life. Because of the therapy riding workload, with some sadness she gave up Morgan training and showing, but her heart now lies with the program that her special needs daughter, Kathy, also participates in.
Treble’s Morgan Manor Many in the Morgan world are like Betty - who’ve been involved over 40 years and that includes Carol and Chuck Hudson of Treble's Morgan Manor. The farm has been breeding 14 Horse Capital Digest • September 2017
world champion Morgan horses for more than 40 years for inhand, English pleasure, park, hunter and western pleasure. Their bloodstock is sought after nationwide, as their small, select group of mares have proven quality again and again. Based in Ocala, Treble's Morgan Manor began with a single stallion Quaker's Acre Treble whose name is memorialized as the farm name. Quaker's Acre Treble’s character and beauty captivated Carol, who at the time was involved in Arabians. Carol started out looking for another Arabian, and instead a big, flashy chestnut colt caught her eye and thus began her foray into the Morgan world. A grandson of Trophy, he was purchased as a yearling from his breeder, Mary Smith, in the spring of 1966. Sired by Trophy's Award (sired by Trophy) and out of Baroosa, by Raymond Sentney, the very talented and game stallion was the beginning of Carol's love affair with the Morgan horse. He was the sire of the first horse to carry a Treble's prefix--Trebles Tender Touch (dam of Trebles Wild Affair and SW Regal Mymphett). He was shown as a park saddle horse throughout the Southeast, winning amateur and open titles with his flamboyant motion and Morgan panache. Carol got her feet wet in the Morgan show ring by watching this extremely athletic individual parade around the ring, many times with her friend Beth Hughes in the saddle. The horse had a unique coloring that made spectators notice him when he entered the ring with his silver tail flowing behind him. In addition he had a fan club that followed him to and
from the ring. The stallion lived his life to the fullest while fighting a liver disease that ultimately caused his untimely death. A few of his important titles include a Reserve National Championship Park Saddle award behind the immortal Waseeka's In Command. Although his foals numbered just 20, they included the very important beginnings of Treble's Morgan Manor through his outstanding daughters, including such notable horses as Tequila Sunrise (dam of Trebles Margarita), Dawnhill Alexsis (dam of Sizzle), and Trebles My Treble (dam of Willy N Truly), as well as Trebles Morgana, Trebles Tender Touch, Quail Run Gingersnap, I'm A Treble Too, Southwinds Lyric and Dawnhill Jubilation. Treble's Morgan Manor ‘s progeny carried on his legacy and his true mark of greatness appeared when his daughters began to produce World Champion after World Champion when bred to Tug Hill Commando. This pairing was hard to beat for quality, beauty and trainability. His grandson Willy, who had an illustrious show career, which included many wins in hand and park saddle. His career culminated at 11 when he was crowned Grand Champion Stallion at the prestigious New England Regional Morgan Show with Cheri Barber on the line. Willy had a captivating
ethereal beauty, that could not be captured in his photos. Many say he is one of the most beautiful Morgan horses of the last 100 years. Willy sired 150 foals that were each stamped with his extreme beauty. While his sons were sought after for their exotic looks, his daughters quickly became some of the premier producers in recent Morgan history. In addition to Treble and Willy, the farm has produced many champions of the breed including Tug Hill Commando, recognized in the Morgan world as simply Mando. Mando has Carol and co-owners Drs. Jerome and Shirley Modell, along with his trainer/handler Cheri Barber. From his exquisite beauty to his dozens of world champion foals, he singlehandedly raised the bar to which all other stallions of his generation aspire to attain. His "Golden Cross" on the Willy Wild daughters (many of whom were out of daughters of Quaker's Acre Treble) put Treble's Morgan Manor on the map and became the gold standard for Morgan type, character and quality. The 20-plus year reign of Commando sons and daughters both in the show ring, as well as the breeding shed, is a full chapter of Morgan history. Over 250 of his sons and daughters populate the registry and the world champion plaques and coolers grace tack rooms from coast to coast. In addition to all the farm success, Chuck is well known for inventing Shoo-Fly, an automatic fly control system.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY AMERICAN MORGAN HORSE ASSOCIATION
Rick Gervasio Pleasure Horses Ocala is home to Rick Gervasio’s place where the lines between showing and pleasure dissolve into one final product, the finished western pleasure horse. Rick has won world and national titles in several breeds including Quarter Horses, Paints, Appaloosas, Arabians and the Morgan. Rick’s father was also a professional horse trainer, and Rick has never known another way of life. Rick accepted his first Morgan horse for training and immediately was successful. He headed to Oklahoma City in 2011 with four Morgans, and brought home one world championship, two reserve world championships, a grand national title, and several top five and top ten placings in three year-old Western pleasure, open Western pleasure, open trail and western dressage. In 2012, Rick moved from second in the country to first with the GNWCMHS in Oklahoma City. With the 10 year-old stallion Hollybrook Touche and three year-old mare Step Right Up, he swept many of the top awards. It was clear he had a knack with Morgans. In 2013, Rick added another reserve world champion open western pleasure, as well as additional titles in the junior and world futurity divisions. While 2014 added four more grand national titles, it was in 2015 that he won another world champion See MORGANS on page 32 www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest 15
Top Reasons
Ocala/Marion County is the Horse Capital of the WorldTM
Thoroughbreds became the epi-center and many breeds and disciplines followed
By Tammy A. Gantt
The area is known as the hotbed of thoroughbred breeding, being the second largest breeding region in North America and one of the top worldwide. In addition to many Kentucky Derby runners being trained in the county, the last Triple Crown winner, American Pharoah, was trained in the region and carries historical Marion County, Fla., thoroughbred bloodlines. Prior to Pharoah, Florida-bred Affirmed was the longest title holder of the Triple Crown for 37 years. With only 12 winners, it is easy to say that having two with Florida ties is impressive. In fact, Florida has had more Kentucky Derby winners than any other state or country (except Kentucky, the worldwide leader). When visiting, one of the best ways to spend a lazy afternoon is to drive along the scenic routes of the county passing numerous farms with mares, foals and young thoroughbreds at pasture. A great route is on Hwy 40 going West from I-75, just past 80th Avenue, take a left onto the scenic road to York. You will pass Double Diamond and see many of their world class mares at pasture. As you make the sharp turn right, you will see their office to your left, a beautiful cottage overlooking a training center. Travelers that continue down the road will 16 Horse Capital Digest • September 2017
Florida-bred Affirmed
American Pharoah has historical Florida bloodlines
SUSIE RAISHER PHOTO
Thoroughbreds
FILE PHOTO
W
ith the wide variety of breeds, top equestrians from around the world, the huge array of equestrian events, the large number disciplines and numerous high profile equine venues and providers, Ocala truly is the horse capital. Here’s a few worth noting.
find many farms – some of the largest in Live Oak Stud (black fences, red gates) and many other smaller operations dotting the countryside. Another drive is North on 225A from HWY 27. After passing Gilbert’s Hardware, keep going North along Millionaires Row to see amazing farms, homes and pastures. Be sure to stop in front of Ocala Stud, the oldest active thoroughbred farm in the state, located on Shady Lane Road. Take a photo in front of the historic sign from 1956. If you look in the distance, you can see the oldest wooden barn in the state. It is still in use, housing some of the 15,000 young thoroughbreds in training each year in the county.
Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company Sales, Race Day, Morning Workouts & Wagering Visitors to the five to six sales held annually always find the grounds hopping with activity as prospective buyers view top thoroughbreds for sale. OBS is considered the worldwide leader of two-year-olds in training and people from almost all 50 states and over 20 countries flock to see the horses pass through the sales ring in March and April. Free and open to the public, the sales typically start at 10 a.m. or so and run all day each sales date. For a list of dates, visit obssales.com as they vary slightly each year. The sale has produced Breeders’ Cup winners, Derby winners, international winners and top breeding prospects. They also hold one race day annually to showcase horses that have been sold at the sale. The day is free and open to the public and is a community event gathering thousands of people to watch the horses for a fun day of racing. In addition, from Fall to Spring, horses train on the track from 6 a.m. to about 9:30 a.m. daily. There is also an Intertrack Wagering parlor for those who want to watch races from around the world, or the big race meetings in America like Saratoga, Gulfstream Park and Tampa Bay Downs among others.
a weekly during season featuring highlights of the shows, top contender profiles and additional stories from Horse Capital.
Live Oak Event: World-Class Hospitality and Family Fun Now in its 27th year, the Live Oak International is the largest combined driving and show jumping equine discipline event in the country held each March. The competitors are some of the leading drivers, riders, trainers, coaches and owners from Europe and North America in both disciplines. For spectators, Live Oak International offers world class hospitality drawing thousands of visitors of all ages. Located in the heart of the event, the Vendor Village showcases workmanship, crafts, art, jewelry or equine merchandise. Tailgating gives visitors a bird’s eye view of the action near the obstacles of the course for the driving competition. Reserve a tented spot where you and your friends can get a clear view of the horses and carriages as they speed through the complicated maze of fences or splash through the water hazards. The best spots go fast so act quickly by booking at liveoakinternational.com. Presented in 2017 by Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Club, the $100,000 Longines FEI World Cup Jumping Qualifier Grand Prix arena has a ringside hospitality area, a great place to be on the final day of the event. When the space was introduced in 2012, it was sold out and is a much sought after ticket for sponsors who host business and community leaders there today. The event finals are
Horse Shows in the Sun What started out as a small show in Gainesville in the 1980s moved to the famed Bernadette Castro farms in 1987 (think Castro Convertible beds). It has grown to cover about 12 weeks, including the Nations Cup drawing the best horses and riders from around the world, and brings in revenue of more than $90 million to the county. Located now at Post-Time Farm on U.S. highway 27, the 500 acres facility opens from December to March to host thousands of hunter/jumper competitors. The shows are free and open to the public, except for some of the more prominent Grand Prixs’ and the Nation’s Cup. Horse Capital Digest is the official publication of the shows and because of its popularity, the publication goes from a monthly to www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest 17
typically at 1:30 p.m. In addition, the week features a Saturday evening Competitors Party, another highly popular, much anticipated annual event of the season in Ocala. Begun in 1992, the competition was a relatively small event drawing a few competitors. Chester Weber, who is now co-president of the event alongside his sister, Juliet W. Reid, is an internationally renowned four-in-hand driver. At that time he couldn’t compete because he was not 18 even though he had been driving since he was 12. In 2012, the world-class driving tournament introduced show jumping and it was an instant success. For the first time, a world-class jumping event and a world-class driving event were together at a world-class horse farm on the same weekend. This year marks the second year of the inclusion of the Show Jumping Grand Prix as part of the inaugural season of the Longines FEI World Cup Jumping North American League. Charlotte Weber’s 5,000 acre Live Oak Plantation – a leading thoroughbred racing operation providing breeding, foaling, training and racing for over 40 years – is the beautiful setting for the event. The farm’s distinctive silks of white with red dots and black sleeves are seen in winner’s circles nationwide from the Breeders’ Cup to Eclipse Awards and Weber has many Grade 1 wins. The latest horse in the winners’ circle is champion Floridabred World Approval, a winner of several stakes in 2017 and a contender for Florida Horse of the Year which is decided at the end of the year.
Jump Downtown This is a special event featuring a “Parade of Nations Horse
18 Horse Capital Digest • September 2017
Celebration” and is held on the downtown square in Ocala typically coinciding with the Nations Cup in February. The familyfriendly event is free and open to the public and is sponsored by Ocala Main Street, the Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition, the Ocala/Marion County Chamber & Economic Partnership (CEP), the City of Ocala and Sheltair Aviation along with breed organizational assistance from Equine Alliance member Dori Morgan of Farm Credit and CEP equine engagement’s Louisa Barton. The Parade of Nations honors and welcome world-class teams for the prestigious jumping competition, the Nations Cup, to be held at Horse Shows in the Sun (HITS) Post-Tme Farm typically mid-February. Riders from the event will be on hand as visitors cheer for these top athletes from around the world that descend on Ocala to compete in the prestigious Nations Cup. The Nations Cup jumping series is equestrian sport’s oldest and most prestigious team challenge, with national teams from around the globe competing for one of the most coveted prizes in this discipline that is an Olympic event. Typical horse breeds in the parade around the square include: andalusian, appaloosa, arabian, Belgian, British riding pony, clydesdale, drum horse, Florida Cracker horse, foxtrotter, friesian, gypsy vanner, hackney, haflinger, lippizan, miniature, morgan, mule, Norwegian fjord, paint horse, paso fino, percheron, Peruvian paso, quarter horse, shire, Tennessee walking horse, thoroughbred, warmblood and Welsh ponies. Jump Downtown began as a brainstorm of HITS founder Tom Struzzieri and the Chamber and Economic Partnership. The idea
The Grande Liberté Show - World Class Equine Ballet Sylvia Zerbini is the world renowned liberty horse trainer who was the star of the show Cavalia for five years. Cavalia is a world acclaimed equine themed show that is one of the many themed shows produced by Cirque de Soleil. Zerbini performed in the show with her white horses “at liberty.” At liberty means the horses run free and take cues from the trainer. Zerbini now resides in the area and showcases her 15 amazing horses in the Grand Liberte show which is an artistic blend of a herd working together to create the ultimate horse ballet. Cavalia was almost an always-sold-out performance and Zerbini’s horse act was one of the reasons why. It is breathtaking, peaceful and truly shows the bond between human and horse. Tickets vary and the shows run November 18 through Easter on every Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m. Call for reservations at 941-256-1063. Performances are at Grande Liberté Farm, 18552 NE 81st Street, Williston FL 32696.
now known as “Airs Above The Ground.” For the last 10 years Gasser toured Australia and abroad with his various productions, which include Gala of the Royal Horses, Lipizzaner’s With the Stars, Equestra and El Caballo Blanco. Visit galaoftheroyalhorses.com for tickets and winter schedules.
Farm Tours of Ocala Discover why Marion County is the Horse Capital of the World on this tour held Mondays through Saturdays from 8:45 a.m. to noon. Tourists visit three world-class equine venues. Typically a working thoroughbred farm and Arabian farm are part of the tour in addition to the Florida Thoroughbred Mu-
EQUINE ALLIANCE PHOTO
tied in community leaders from the Ocala and Marion County local government, councils, and charity groups with the goal to showcase equines and welcome riders. “With loyal support from Marion County and the City of Ocala, HITS will once again welcome show jumping’s biggest players to the Horse Capital of the World to exemplify our continued commitment to growing the sport for exhibitors and spectators alike,” Struzzieri said.
seum and Gallery, since thoroughbreds make up the largest number of horses in the county. Tour guides are avid horse-people and long-time residents of Ocala’s Horse Country who take you behind the scenes of working farms and venues to get you up close and personal with equine athletes and the professionals who train and care for them who share their enthusiasm and knowledge of the Marion Country horse scene. To book, visit FarmToursofOcala.com.
Gala of the Royal Horses The show is the creation of world-renowned riding master Rene Gasser, who brings the experience of seven generations. Before Gasser, this performance could only previously been seen at the famous riding schools in Vienna and Spain. Magnificent stallions and Spanish flamenco dancers provide a show in authentic vibrant costumes, accompanied by the mellow notes of a guitar, bring the sights and sounds of Spain a heartbeat away. Gala of The Royal Horses features a number of performances of the Andalusian, Friesian, Lipizzaner and Arabian breeds and the event is dedicated to showcasing the amazing beauty and maneuvers these horses are capable of, including those once used on the battlefield. These feats are
Gypsy Gold Tours The number one thing to do in Ocala and a Central Florida favorite on Trip Advisor, the two-hour tour allows you to meet the Gypsy Vanner horse breed close-up and hear the history of the breed from its discovery in Great Britain to its growth in the United States. Tours are on Wednesdays, Fridays or Saturdays at 10 a.m. at the Gypsy Gold farm. The tour guide is Dennis Thompson, who discovered this unique breed and brought it to American soil. His tour includes an overview and introduction to the breed and its history, the unique British Gypsy culture and where the breed is today. From there you go on a walking tour of the farm where you’ll meet the stallions, mares, foals and various other animals www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest 19
loved at Gypsy Gold. You’ll also be invited to create a memory of your Gypsy Gold tour with a photo of yourself and one of the beautiful Gypsy Vanner horses to share with your friends. Also there is a gift shop of books, videos and DVDs, posters, jewelry, model horses and figurines and everything Gypsy to make it complete. To make a reservation go to GypsyGold.com.
Horse Country Carriage Tours Ranked in the top three Trip Advisor trips to do in Ocala, these scenic horse-drawn carriage rides travel through horse country passing several large farms where famous horses have been trained or bred. During the ride, guests hear the history of the farms and the area from Kimie. She is a carriage guide who sweeps visitors away with her passion for the horses, her wit, and her love of Ocala. Her tours are filled with amazing facts and bits of nostalgia. Her horses Duke and Doc are celebrities having made their film debut in the “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides“. They are in the second scene of the movie galloping with the stagecoach into the castle. Tours are typically an hour long. Visitors are encouraged to bring cameras to see the variety of horse breeds along the way. Reserve at 352-727-0900 or http://www.hcccandt.com/.
The Florida Horse Park The park hosts year-round events both equine and non-equine on its large property. The facility is home to a $1 million dressage arena, a top level cross country course for horses and a $2 million covered arena over 79,000 square feet in size. The Park is near the Majorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, making it a perfect place to trail ride from on your own horse or you can rent a horse from a nearby trail ride company. There are over 65 miles of trails each day of the year.
Southeastern Livestock Pavilion An Ocala landmark since 1945, the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion enjoys a reputation as Marion County's premier agricultural showplace. Easily accessible from all directions, the pavilion is located on Old Jacksonville Road, east of Highway 441 and north of Highway 27. The pavilion features a covered arena with the largest clear-span roof south of Atlanta, grandstand seating for over 4,200 spectators, an adjacent indoor, air-conditioned sales auditorium with theater-style seating for 800 participants, and 226 stalls with iron gates-all under one roof! The pavilion's rental areas include a field events area, an open arena, an air conditioned reception hall, an exhibition building, a picnic pavilion with showers as well as electric hookups, and even a paved parking lot for 1,000 vehicles. Jointly owned by the Marion County Board of County Commissioners and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the pavilion is proudly managed by
20 Horse Capital Digest • September 2017
Marion County Extension Service. Each year the pavilion plays host to numerous shows, sales and special events. A few horse events include: the Stopanio Memorial Barrel Race, Florida Horse Sales, Orange Blossom Miniature Horse Show, Southeastern Youth Fair, Southern Regional Paso Fino Ocala Schooling Classic, Barrel Racing Horse Clinic, 4-H Horse Specialty Horse Show, Florida Morgan “Summer’s End” Horse Show and Florida Equine Institute.
Florida Thoroughbred Museum and Gallery See a Kentucky Derby Trophy The birth of the Horse Capital of the World began with Needles, a little horse born in the county, who went on to become the first to win the Kentucky Derby for Florida. His presence, it is said, sold more real estate here than any realtor. Both the equine world and non-equine people flocked to see how this land with mineral-rich soil, abundant spring water and limestone-enriched grasses could produce a top runner from a modest bloodline. Today, those bloodlines run through the likes of Triple Crown winner American Pharoah whose ancestors are prominently featured in the museum, along with the Needles Derby trophy. Visitors are so close to the trophy, they can take a picture with it. Plus, see a real speeding ticket issued to the fastest horse in the world. In addition to the museum, the art gallery is a must-see featuring original paintings by local artists of thoroughbred champions through history. Open Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the museum is free. Donations are accepted which go to the Florida Thoroughbred Retirement farm, a retirement home for old racehorses in which prison inmates care for them.
Ocala Jockey Club World-Class Eventing The Ocala Jockey Club is hosting the second year of world class three-day eventing (CIC3* and CCI1*/2*) on Nov. 16 through 19. The Ocala Jockey Club International 3-Day Event is a stepping stone for competitors onto the world stage as it can qualify them to represent their country in the 2018 World Equestrian Games held at Tryon, NC. The event will include a who’s who of world class riders, horses and planners at the event. Shelley Page, a longtime eventing organizer and leader of the eventing organizing team for 2018 WEG Tryon, is planning the event. Alec Lochore is returning as part of this Organizing Committee and brings his vast experience from the world stage of organizing eventing competitions at the Olympic levels. The CIC 3* course will be designed by Mike Etherington-Smith, former head of British Eventing, and the course designer for the Sydney & Beijing Olympic Games as well as the Kentucky CCI4*. Olympian Clayton Fredericks will again design the CCI 1*, and 2* courses. Tyson Rementer will be returning to build the cross-country jumps. The OJC facility, with its rolling hills and showcase old-growth
“
The 2016 OJC event was a great showcase of eventing and of Ocala in the event's inaugural year. This year, riders will be back on their way to qualify for the 2018 World Equestrian Games. An event of this caliber is yet another example of why we call Ocala, Marion County, 'The Horse Capital of the World.
”
—Kent Guinn, Mayor of Ocala
Spanish-moss-laden oak trees, sits on about 200 acres of the 950-acre property. OJC serves as a thoroughbred training farm, and the facility also includes townhouses and a 9,700 square-foot clubhouse - unique for weddings, event hospitality, meetings and special events. Activities include equine cross country, show jumping and dressage performances, an Annual Fall Family Festival, holiday shopping at the Vendor Village, entertainment, and kids play area with games and prizes. The events are open to the public and general admission, tailgating and VIP tickets are available at ojc3de.com/tickets.
SALLY MOEHRING CREDIT
World Equestrian Center Emerges Just when it seemed every discipline and top class event could be held in Ocala, there are still more to come. In 2018, the new World Equestrian Center kicks off its world class season featuring four 262 x 550 climate-controlled indoor arenas surrounding an open-air stadium and 15 outdoor arenas on over 300 acres. The successful model from Wilmington, Ohio is being introduced in Ocala and already has created lots of opportunities for equine athletes and for local businesses. Amy Agricola, sponsor coordinator of WEC, has been hosting an equine committee to ensure the local community is connected with the events at the new center. In addition to equine events, the destination features country club living. The total complex has access to 3,100 additional acres with real estate and amenities, including retail space and a restaurant. There are plans to build additional amenities as well as permanent stabling for 1,500 horses. HCD
www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest 21
22 Horse Capital Digest • September 2017
Art & Horses By Tammy A. Gantt
H
orses have long been models for artists. From early drawings of horses in caves, to modern uses in furniture, jewelry and trophies, horses have long served as inspiration for artists from all walks of life. From masters DaVinci, Degas, Géricault to other artists made famous because of the horse-like Stubbs, Munnings and sports artist Neiman, artists create some of their best works inspired in horse country. Not surprisingly, the mecca for horses, Ocala/Marion County is no different. Horses abound and artists seize the opportunity to create art with the noble creatures as their subjects. Because of the connection of horses and art, the area has more than its share of offerings for those who are interested.
dlewood also has been home to blue-hen mares like North Of Eden (Ire), dam of Bridlewood-bred Grade 1 winners Paradise Creek, Wild Event and Forbidden Apple, and grand-dam to top performers like Grade 1 winner Eden’s Moon. Bridlewood has also stood prominent stallions including leading Florida sires Silver Buck, Jolie’s Halo, My Gallant, Buckaroo, Skip Trial, Stormy Atlantic, Halo’s Image and most recently Florida Stallion of the Year Put It Back. Currently Bridlewood is owned by the largest land-holder in the U.S., John Malone. Originally built to display and preserve Mr. Appleton’s
Museums and Galleries of Art Founded in 1982, the museum was a gift from the late Arthur I. Appleton to the Ocala community. The City of Ocala donated the 44-acre site for the home of the museum, the construction began in 1984, and the museum opened to the public in 1987. Appleton built Bridlewood Farm in 1976 and the farm became a staple in the Florida thoroughbred industry and a perennial leading breeder in North America. In almost four decades, the farm bred well over 100 stakes winners, 12 Grade 1 winners, and numerous Florida champions such as Jolie’s Halo, Forbidden Apple, Wild Event, Southern Image, David Junior, Eden’s Moon, and more. Bridlewood has also raised and trained several outside horses, most notably 2004 Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes winner Smarty Jones. BriArthur and Martha Appleton, founders of the Appleton Musuem of Art
FTBOA ARCHIVES
Appleton Museum of Art
www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest 23
extensive art collection from all periods with some focused on equine, the Appleton Museum of Art is one of the South’s premier art museums and a leading cultural institution in Marion County. Since opening day, the museum’s mission has been to consistently exhibit works of fine art and artifacts for the public and provide educational programming for visitors and since 2004, governance of the museum has been through the College of Central Florida and the CF Foundation. The museum’s permanent collections of approximately 18,000 objects include European, American, Asian, African, Contemporary and pre-Columbian art and artifacts, and a series of temporary traveling exhibitions are presented throughout the year. The museum is also building a collection of works of Florida artists which relates directly to the history and cultural heritage of the Central Florida community.
Florida Thoroughbred Museum and Gallery
FTBOA COLLECTION
Curated by the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association, the gallery features the largest collection of original Florida thoroughbred art worldwide. The gallery collection amassed over time as each year champion Floridabreds were honored with an original painting in the permanent collection. The collection includes stallions, mares, and each Horse of the Year. In addition, the collection also features a number of loaned pieces including an extensive exhibit of Florida-bred Affirmed. Affirmed was the 11th horse to win the American Triple Crown and his owner Patrice Wolfson shared pieces includ-
24 Horse Capital Digest • September 2017
ing a replica of a collage she made featuring newpaper clippings and photos she collected as the horse became a champion. Also, on display is a tack trunk and the original silks worn by the jockey of all three of the famed races. Another collection features the trophies, photos and memorabilia of Fred Hooper. Hooper passed away at 102 leaving a long legacy in the thoroughbred world. The Derby trophy from his first winner, Hoop Jr., ironically not a Florida-bred, is also a part of the collection. More unique parts of the collections include 1956 Kentucky Derby winner Needles letterman’s blanket from University of Florida and his ashes preserved there, and of course his Derby trophy. Famed world record holder Dr. Fager is also a ticket holder. On display is a ticket issued by the Marion County sheriff’s department for speeding issued after his track record in 1968. The make and model of course, is Fast, Thoroughbred. Artists whose pieces grace the gallery walls got their start or boosted their careers making pieces featuring prominent thoroughbreds. Famed Ocala now Saratoga artist, Sharon Crute, has the largest piece in the gallery featured over the entry door. Her vibrant images grace the walls of thoroughbred fans the world over. Angie Draper, an Ocala-native whose home was stone’s throw away from the gallery, painted a majority of the champion pieces including a painting depicting Dr. Fager winning the record mile. Draper also was an illustrator for some of the books of the Black Stallion series by Walter Farley. Another artist, Bob Judy, also has a number of his works showcased down the hallways of Florida Equine Communications. Another large collection of his works can be found at Big Sun Products in Ocala. Judy who rarely painted humans made an exception when he painted a portrait of Gus Gray and stallion Tri-Jet. Gray went on to write a book and be nominated as a Godolphin Employee award finalist, while TriJet’s claim to fame is his great-great-grand son See ART on page 29
FLORIDA DEPT. OF AGRICULTTURE AND CONSUMER SERVICES Adam H. Putnam, Commissioner • 850-617-7289 • Fax 850-617-7281 e-mail: Paul.Balthrop@freshfromflorida.com • 407 S. Calhoun The Mayo Building, Taallahassee, FL 32399
FLORIDA THOROUGHBRED BREEDERS’ AND OWNERS’ ASSOCIATTION Lonny T. Powell, CEO and Executive Vice President 801 SW 60th Avve. • Ocala, FL 34474 • 352-629-2160 • Fax: 352-629-3603 www.ftboa.com • info@ftboa.com • www.facebook.com/thefloridahorse
$1 BILLION INDUSTRY Y 12,000 DIRECT JOBS $2.6 Billi B on+ Overalll Economic Impactt** 19,000+ Direct//Indirect jobs* *Equine Marion County
ART continued from page 24
BY CHANEL REINER
Triple Crown winner American Pharoah. Hooper appreciated the piece so much, he purchased it for Gray. FTBOA has been a supporter of the arts for decades and most recently in 2017 hosted Ocala’s Hometown Derby Heroes exhibition features awe-inspiring horse heroes with connections to the world’s most legendary horse race, the Kentucky Derby. These famed Derby horses include Needles (the first in 1956), Ocala Stud’s Carry Back (1961), Williston’s Foolish Pleasure, Triple Crown winner Affirmed (1978), historic Tartan Farm’s Unbridled, and Silver Charm among others like champions like Afleet Alex and Holy Bull who suffered defeats in the Derby but later became national champions.
Brick City Center for the Arts The Center regularly creates exhibitions focusing on the equine. In 2017 for Hometown Derby Heroes, member artists, who typically do not create equine art, were asked to expand their artistic subject matter. Local artists did with great success creating sculptures and avant garde pieces by using special materials and portraying the equine abstractly. The finished pieces added a richness to the realistic equine pieces and created a stunning visual representation of horses in art. In addition, the exhibit expanded art to include the famed Kentucky Derby mint julep drinking glasses. Over 50 were on display appealing to graphic designers and collectors alike. Also, in 2017 the Center featured, “Horse Fever Artists: Where Are They Now?” showcasing new artwork from 21 artists who participated in the acclaimed Horse Fever public art exhibition.
Marion County Museum of History and Archaeology This museum seems like an unlikely picks for horses and art considering there is only one horse photo in the collection. The simple photo is of the famed Needles standing,
yes just standing. But what makes the photo stand out is that it is surrounded by rich Florida cultural history from the native tribes, to Silver Springs and the forest. The photo dates back to the late ‘50s and portrays the kick-off to the area becoming a burgeoning equine empire.
Grand Oaks Carriage Museum Art of a different kind is showcased at the carriage museum, home to one of the world’s largest private collections of carriages and equine artifacts. The museum is a step back in time showcasing the elegance and pageantry of over 160 European and American Carriages, including the elaborate 1850 Armbruster Dress Chariot once owned by Emperor of Austria Franz Joseph, and his wife, Elisabeth. The museum uniquely offers a glimpse into the history of the relationship between man and horse and clearly defines the manner in which the horse has helped shape the history of man. Since 1995, The Grand Oaks Carriage Museum has opened its doors to the public with an extraordinary display of historical artifacts, while educating visitors with tours, seminars and special programs in a live setting. Exhibits include the rare opportunity to see an English Omnibus, a horsedrawn fire fighting apparatus, a World War I supply wagon, the colorful and ornate Sicilian Caretta and a Dutch Tikker.
Community Art Horse Fever This public art project was the first co-sponsored directly by a horse-related organization. Horse Fever horses were sponsored, created, and sold in 2001, 2005 and 2011. The Marion Cultural Alliance and the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' and Owners' Association kicked off the project thanks to community art supporters and Horse Fever founders Laurie Zink and Paula King. Laurie was the chair and Paula the founding chairman of the Marion Cultural Alliance. Laurie was inspired by other public art projects www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest 29
like Horse Mania in Lexington and the cows in Chicago. Donald Dizney, owner of Double Diamond Farm, J. Michael O'Farrell, owner of Ocala Stud Farms and the FTBOA were all members of Horse Fever's steering committee in 2001. Seventy artists were chosen to create 89 equine works of art to be sold and placed on display throughout the community. Many pieces are in public spaces, some private and a few were purchased and moved out of state. The 2001 auction raised more than $300,000 for local charities and provided seed money for MCA’s endowment and cultural grants. Horse Fever not only created community pride, but a way to give back. Not a day passes by that a photo of a Horse Fever horse is not being taken. In fact, residents and visitors make a game of trying to find all the Horse Fever horses around the area and solicit help on finding them from the FTBOA, Ocala/Marion County Visitor’s Bureau and the Brick City Center for the Arts, among others. In addition, Horse Fever miniatures are collectible and hard to find, as are the Horse Fever commemorative posters and books. Horse Fever started a movement that the arts community still enjoys today.
Marion Cultural Alliance Celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2017, MCA’s first project was Horse Fever. From there, MCA has created Art Walk with the downtown business community, held the first Friday of each month, along with countless shows and assisting the arts with cultural grants of up to $250,000 annually. MCA serves as the catalyst for new projects and productions in the county.
Art in Architecture A bit like the hidden Mickey Mouse’s at Disney World, horses and their significance are everywhere throughout town if you just look. A stop at Churchill Square - the location of many businesses that got their start serving the equine community decades ago – will make you want to sing,” My Old Kentucky Home.” Most people don’t notice but atop the Publix are two spires representing the trademarked Twin Spires of Churchill Downs, home to the Kentucky Derby. Visit the RaceTrac gas station on highway 200, it is lined by a white fence, making the station 30 Horse Capital Digest • September 2017
look like it’s in a horse paddock. Horse people will tell you that the style of fence is not the style for horses, however, the homage to the connection of nice fences and nice horses is appreciated. These are only two examples, but there are many more about town and perhaps more on the way. The County Commission has plans in the works for the airport to combine the rental and main facility and add a passenger terminal in the future. One of the designs under consideration includes a tribute to Horse Capital.
Art in Businesses If you pay a visit to the downtown Ocala post office you will find tucked opposite of the customer service counter, an amazing mural with horses at pasture and a couple horses racing. The art was produced by the late Darlene Weesner who spent countless hours promoting art in the community. In addition to the downtown location, the post office on 60th Avenue features a mural complete with hay at the base. Travel a bit further North on 60th and visit the inside of the Ocala Breeders’ Sales ITW which features the two largest murals in horse country. Both are full wall pieces and depict horse country from breeding to racing. While winner’s circle photographs may not be considered traditional art, when they grace the walls of restaurants like Roma Italian on U.S. 27 and Crossroads Diner on highway 40, they become a gallery all their own. Exploits of famed horses and owners give visitors a lot to look at and aspire to. McDonalds’ restaurants are not known for their artistic ap-
TAMMY GANTT PHOTO
peal but the one on highway 200 celebrates the area’s rich equine history. Horse action art graces the wall and is so vibrant many pieces can be seen from the drive thru. Not far from McDonalds is McAllister’s Deli. A relatively new addition to the highway 200 scene, the deli showcases amazing photography of horses, including a beautiful paint horse with blue eyes. A wall mural with a pastoral scene of horse country graces a wall and is worthy of a selfie. Restaurants like Horse and Hounds, The Ivy House and Tailwinds Café at the airport also feature equines prominently and in Tailwinds’ case, it is a line-up of lawn jockeys leading from the building to the tarmac that draws the attention of diners. The colors for each jockey’s silks represent top breeders. Many banks also have scenes of the area and hold exhibitions on occasion. Just like the architecture, there are countless more restaurants and hotels that honor the horse and art.
Horse Monuments Horse bronzes and elaborate gates adorn the over 1,100 horse farms large and small in the area but two worth checking out are located at malls. The Paddock Mall was once part of land adjacent to Ocala Stud, the oldest active thoroughbred farm in the state. When the mall did not exist, folks at Ocala Stud used to ring a bell that could be heard for miles. The sound of the bell told breeders to keep producing champions because one had just beaten a Kentucky-bred giving a reason to ring the bell. At the South entrance of the mall stands several horse bronzes representing horses at play. The horses are so playful, the mall owners had to build a little island for them so folks
would not climb on the artistic representation. Only a few miles away stands Heathbrook Mall. The centerpiece of the outdoor mall is Needles. Needles proudly looks down and over the area as if he is welcoming people to run on the limestone rich grass and enjoy the spring-water that he did as a foal. While not quite a monument, the Foolish Pleasure marker, is a popular photo spot in downtown Williston. Located not far from the river on the main street, it denotes that 1975 Kentucky derby winning Floridabred Foolish Pleasure was born there. In addition, the Florida Thoroughbred Farm Managers provides signage promoting locations of horse farms around town. One of the most recognizable signs listing farms is at U.S. 27 and 225A on the Northwest side. To promote Horse Capital of the World, there are five signs located throughout the county. The easiest to take photos of is the one located just south of the FTBOA at 801 SW 60th. Another sign is near highway 200 and I-75 near the entrance of Countryside Inn, along with one of the coolest horse fever horses, one that looks like rocks. On 441 North just above highway 27 is one located near the Burger King. The other two are located on the East and West ends of the county.
Logo Art Graphic artists see equines everywhere when it comes to Central Florida. From the ad campaigns of Showcase Properties of Central Florida to the Ocala Marion County Visitor’s Bureau logo and bumper sticker HCOTW, equines are there. While many equine businesses have horses in their logos, like the Florida Horse Park, Horse Shows in the Sun, Hilton, Newport Hay, OBS and FTBOA; many community organizations and businesses use equine themed logos, also like the realtor association, hotels, chiropractors, dentists, restaurants, golf courses and planned communities. Arts and horses go hand in hand and the art they represent can be found throughout the county, if you just look. HCD www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest 31
Morgans Clip Clop off the Pages
The Morgan horse breed gained great popularity after Newbery award winning children’s book author Marguerite Henry penned Justin Morgan had a Horse in 1945. The book told the history of Figure also known as Justin Morgan (his owner’s name). Born in 1789, he was the prominent foundation sire for the Morgan breed and his All-American story of a “little horse that could” captured readers’ imaginations. Not surprisingly, in 1972 Disney produced a movie of the same name and both the Morgan and Henry’s book expanded in popularity. Because horse lovers identify with the All-American breed, Morgans continue to appeal to readers who find themselves endeared generation to generation. Author Ellen Feld continued the tradition over a decade ago with the release of Blackjack: Dreaming of a Morgan Horse which led to her award winning series on the breed. Her Morgan Horse series for ages 9–13 includes sequels, Frosty: The Adventures of a Morgan Horse, Rusty: The High-Flying Morgan Horse, Robin: The Lovable Morgan Horse and Annie: The Mysterious Morgan Horse. The sixth book in the series Rimfire: The Barrel Racing Morgan Horse was published in the 2009, followed by The Further Adventures of Blackjack: The Champion Morgan Horse. In addition, a photo book of the real horses behind the series was also produced. Several in the series are used as part of curriculums for young readers. Two other books for younger children include Shadow: The Curious Morgan Horse and Justin Morgan and the Big Horse Race. The horse race is actually celebrated annually on the same stretch of road Figure raced over 200 years ago in Brookfield, Vermont. The race is held on September 9 and horses than want to race are welcome to cover the historic stretch of road known as The Morgan Mile. For details visit http://www.morganmile.com/ . 32 Horse Capital Digest • September 2017
MORGANS continued from page 15
open western pleasure title (making it four open world titles in five years on four different horses), and a back to back win in the three year-old Open and Futurity World Championships. He has been honored with the Barbara Worth Oakford Trophy from the United States Equestrian Federation. This award is given to a worthy candidate from any horse or pony breed shown in a non-reining western discipline.
Cheri Barber Cheri Barber owns Cheri Barber Stables in Reddick and became hooked on the Morgan breed after she moved to Ocala to work with Hudson in the early 1980s after graduating from the University of Miami. She felt it was horse mecca, even back then. She says it is the breed’s personality that has her hooked. She notes they know they are on stage and they react to crowds. She says that Morgan shows differ than most because people are cheering and creating noise and the horses actually thrive on it. In an interview for Ocala Star Banner, she noted that it was a great area with the best vets and blacksmiths and a wonderful place to raise horses. In her career with Morgans, Cheri has trained some of the greats and also has her own breeding operation.
Bobbin Hollow Equestrian Center Yet another Morgan operation located close to Ocala, Bobbin Hollow Farm was not always in the area. After a successful 20 years in Southwest Florida, the original Bobbin Hollow Farm moved to Ocala. The Farm originally began in 1960, founded by Mr. & Mrs. Woodrow W. Henry Sr., both Morgan Horse Association Hall of Fame Inductees. The
PHOTO PROVIDED BY AMERICAN MORGAN HORSE ASSOCIATION
Literature:
PHOTO PROVIDED BY AMERICAN MORGAN HORSE ASSOCIATION
family of four generations of astute horsefolks brought with them solid family values and excellence in the craft of breeding Morgans. Owned by trainer Lark Henry, the center’s goal is to be a top-flight equine academy dedicated to the advancement of Saddlebred and Morgan s, as well as various breeds and the well-rounded education of dedicated riders. Lark and her family have trained many World Champion Morgans and riders Bobbin Hollow currently serves over 100 riding students, from pre-schoolers to senior citizens. Many students on their show team compete at an elite level, bringing home championships from world, national and regional horse shows. The facility features nearly 90 acres of beautiful pastures, 27 spacious stalls, many pastures and turn out paddocks and several work areas.
West Coast Morgans Valarie Siemer has been a horse professional for over 35 years. Valarie started riding at nine years of age in hunt seat and dressage with renowned trainer, Colonel Kimball. She began showing Morgan horses as a teenager at Freedom Acres Farm in Tampa, where she added saddle seat to her training
repertoire. She also worked concurrently with other trainers to broaden her skills, including showing Arabians for several years in-hand and over fences. In 1995, Valarie's business and clientele grew out of Freedom Acres Farm and moved to a larger local facility, aptly named Valarie Siemer Training Center, now she’s based at the West Coast Morgans facility in Odessa co-owned by Glenn Winograd. Located just 25 minutes from the Tampa International Airport, the farm is comprised of 31 acres of lush property, a 30 stall barn and a 4 stall with air-conditioned lounge. The facility staff boast of over 60 years of experience training horses and students while specializing in Morgans. They do offer additional services to all breeds and levels of riders for show or pleasure. The philosophy is high standards while maintaining a hands-on fun experience. West Coast Morgans is home to thirty-four horses, primarily Morgans and Saddlebreds. The talented show string competes throughout the Southeast, to New England, Ohio, and in Oklahoma for the Morgan Grand Nationals and World Championships. Valarie’s honors in the Morgans horse community are extensive. She has won numerous World and National Championships and several National Trainer Awards. Her reputation www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest 33
on a national and local level is that she presents quality horse and shows with a tremendous sense of sportsmanship. In open competition against other breeds, her clients usually end up in the top ten percent of their classes. She also volunteers with the Florida Morgan Horse Association and contributes to national publications. Glenn learned to ride Saddle Seat and drive quickly, and branched out into showing Morgans and Saddlebreds. He met his wife Anne in 1992 while at Freedom Acres; they became fast friends, eventually marrying in 1997. They decided with Valarie and two great neighbors to buy land in
Odessa, and built West Coast Morgans with neighbors they love. They share the house drive with Doris and Peter Bazzini of Bel Cavallo Morgans. Always an active member and staunch supporter of the Morgan breed, Glenn has been the president of the Florida Morgan Horse Association, vice-president, and many years as a director. He helps coordinate both the Citrus Cup Regional Morgan Horse Show and the Summer's End Horse Show, presented by the FMHA each year.
The Morgan-Art Connection
The Morgan is a beautiful breed so it is not surprising artists would take up a brush and paints to create art with the breed as their subject. However, the Morgan plays a far greater role in the history of art with some key contributions. In fact, the contribution can be directly attributed to one horse – Ethan Allen. The influential Morgan horse sire and trotting racehorse was born in 1849 and lived until 1876, but his legacy on art remains even today. Ethan Allan was sired by another famous Morgan Black Hawk, a horse famed for his speed and elegant style. His dam was out of Figure, the famed “Justin Morgan” , foundation sire of the breed. In 1921, Figure was honored with a large-scale statue on the U.S. Morgan Horse Farm. The statue was one of the first dedicated to solely a horse in the United States. Ethan Allan was a rich bay with three white feet and a white star on his forehead and he stood around 15 hands. He gained attention as a champion trotter of the era. He trotted a mile in 2:25. Because of his widespread fame from trotting, he was noticed by Nathanial Currier and Jim Ives of Currier & Ives printing. Currier & Ives produced prints with hand operated printing presses, used artists, lithographers and the stone grinders and also hand colorists creating one of the earliest production lines in the country. Each colorist was responsible for adding a single color to a print. At the end of the table was a touch up artist who checked the prints for quality, touching-in areas that may have been missed. 34 Horse Capital Digest • September 2017
Referring to themselves as “The Grand Depot of Cheap and Popular Pictures" but clearly the best lithograph printers in the world, they produced prints on a variety of subjects including disasters (for newspapers), sentimental scenes, sports humor, among countless others. However, one of their popular subjects was famous racehorses. Ethan Allen was one of those famed racehorses that was the subject of a number of the over 7,500 different titles prints, and over one million prints produced from 1835 to 1907. He produced 2 fillies out of 72 foals in his lifetime. Shortly after his death, his silhouette was used as the basis for a trotting horse weather vane (seen above) produced from 1880 to 1890. The full copper, copper tubing weathervanes with cast iron heads became a common form used for other weathervanes and are frequently referred to as Ethan Allen running horse weathervanes. At the age of 28, he was buried but later exhumed and his articulated skeleton is on display at the University of Kansas, where he joined another famed horse, Comanche. Comanche, a half Morgan, is claimed to be the lone survivor from Little Bighorn and also in display at the UK Natural History Museum. After bring nursed back to health, Comanche, 30, lived until 1891. The commonly held belief is he died from a broken heart when his long-time caretaker Gustave Korn did not return after being killed at Wounded Knee. Both horses are joined together by interesting legacies and it is Ethan Allen’s whose form is brought back to life in art.
Anne met Morgans through Valarie and took notice of the extremely well-mannered breed. Anne showed several years in sport horse divisions throughout Florida, earning Florida Morgan High Point Awards beginning in 1995. Additional trainers at the farm include Nikki Bennett and Liz Curtin.
Davis Stables For nearly 40 years, Rick and Karen Harry-Davis’ Davis Stables has been a landmark of Morgan Horse training and instruction in West Florida. The Davis Stables’ mission is to develop champion Morgan horse and rider teams of all ages and disciplines. Davis Stables was moved in 1989 to the Tampa Bay area of Florida from Indiana, and has been in operation since 1972. Rick has trained, shown and instructed numerous world, national, regional, and local champion horses and riders. Rick conducts off-site training clinics on English, Western Pleasure and Pleasure Driving throughout the Midwest and southeast United States for Morgan, Arabian, and all-breed horse clubs. Rick shas been a speaker at the Morgan Convention in Orlando and a panelist for the judges training seminar. Rick has judged over 100 shows, including local, Regional and World competitions during his career. He has
served as president for the Florida Morgan Horse Association from 2010-2013. He also was a former vice president of the Indiana Morgan Horse Club. Rick has published articles in The Morgan Horse and The International Morgan Connection magazines on western pleasure and saddle-seat equitation. Currently, Rick operates a hunt-seat, western and saddleseat equitation barn, in addition to training horses. Rick was the youngest ISHA licensed judge ever and has been judging since he was 16 years old. Rick has been a USEF large "R" judge for more than 18 years and has judged the Grand National and World Championship Morgan Horse Show six times.
Costa Nova Tom Johnson is a trainer with a barn full of Morgans and lots of amateur and kid exhibitors. His Morgan horse farm offering lessons, boarding, and training and is located just off highway 40 in Pierson making his farm an easy trip from Daytona, Ocala and Orlando. In addition to this glimpse into some of those in Central Florida into Morgans, there are many more to follow via the Florida Morgan Horse Association Facebook page or signup on their website: fmha.net to receive newsletters. HCD
www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest 35
36 Horse Capital Digest • September 2017
The Lawn Jockey Lady Equine artist Carol Moore Demme
carves out a unique niche
By JoAnn Guidry ust as all does not go as planned in a horse race, such is also the case with our life paths. Growing up in Clearwater, Florida, Carol Moore Demme dreamed of becoming a fashion illustrator. But life often takes our dreams on unexpected detours. Today, Demme is an accomplished equine artist and fashion stylist for, well, lawn jockeys. “I was actually going to school to become a fashion illustrator,” said Demme. “But then I got married and had four kids. We always had pets and I raised and showed Quarter horses. Our animals became my first drawings and paintings. That led to my career as an animal artist.” When Demme moved to Ocala in 1987, she became involved in the Thoroughbred industry via her artwork. And soon she painted her first lawn jockey. “I opened an art store, The Gift Horse, and that's how I got to know Thoroughbred people,” she said. “The first lawn jockey I painted was my neighbor's. Soon after, I was commissioned to paint several lawn jockeys of the area's prominent farms for display at the Ocala airport. Next thing I knew, I was known as 'The Lawn Jockey Lady.' And the name has stuck.” At the Ocala International Airport, Demme recently completed a weeks-long project of both repainting the older lawn jockeys and painting new additions that greet visitors flying into town. The farms and racing stables represented by lawn jockeys at the airport include: Double Diamond Farm, Live Oak Stud, Stonestreet Training Center, Journeyman Stud, Kinsman Farm, Vegso Racing Stables, Teresa Viola Racing, Whisper Hill Farm, Bridlewood Farm, McKathan Bros., Glen Hill Farm,
J
Winding Oaks, Red Oak Stable, Newcastle Farm, Signature Stallions and Los Samanes Polo & Racing. “People fly in for the Ocala Breeders Sales Company's sales and see the lawn jockeys at the airport. Then they order one for themselves,” said Demme. “I've painted some for people while they're in town, then they load them on their planes and fly home.”
FAR-FLUNG BUSINESS In the past three decades, Demme has painted lawn jockeys for horse farms and racing stables across the country and internationally. “I've painted lawn jockeys for Lane's End, Hronis Racing, Team Valor, John Servis and Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners” said Demme. “It's a lot of fun to follow all my clients racing stables and say, 'I painted those silks.' Of course, Tapwrit carried Bridlewood Farm's silks in the Kentucky Derby and then won the Belmont Stakes in the Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners silks. So now I can brag that I painted lawn jockeys for two of the partnership owners of Tapwrit.” Demme has also painted lawn jockeys for the Lexington, Kentucky-based New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program at Mereworth Farm. She also painted one in the style of a Standardbred sulky driver for New Vocations' Standardbred adoption farm in Ohio. “I've done lawn jockeys for New Vocations in the silks of their benefactors,” said Demme. “It's a nice way to honor them.” One of Demme's international non-Thoroughbred clients is Costa Stud, a Welsh pony breeder based in Meopham, England. www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest 37
“The silks were a basic navy blue with bright yellow stripes on the sleeves and cap,” said Demme. “But the challenge was that the farm owner wanted the Costa Stud logo on the silks and name on the base of the lawn jockey in Old English lettering. When it was ready, he sent a personal courier here to arrange for shipping back to England.” Thanks to social media and word of mouth, Demme stays busy with lawn jockeys. Recently averaging 75-80 a year, Demme estimated she's painted thousands in her career. Contemplating those numbers, Demme quipped, “Some people count sheep to help them sleep. I count lawn jockeys.” Clients typically email a picture of their silks, but some actually mail the silks to Demme. She has painted every color and color combination imaginable. Some silks are simple while others include diamonds, chevrons, stripes, polka dots, blocks, intricate logos, images and lettering. Lawn jockeys used to be made of cast iron and concrete, but now are aluminum, which is lightweight and more durable. “I've done lawn jockeys for people who don't even own a farm or a racing stable. They just want one for their entry gate or garden,” said Demme. “Seems like at least once a year, I paint a lawn jockey in Secretariat's silks colors for people who are fans of him.”
ALL-AROUND ARTIST In addition to painting lawn jockeys, Demme continues to do equine, pet and wildlife portraits. And she also hand-paints furniture, clothes and leather goods, such as purses and sales catalogs. “I've done and continue to do all kinds of commission work,” said Demme. “People love their animals. Horse people, including Thoroughbred people, like paintings of their horses, as well
38 Horse Capital Digest • September 2017
as of famous horses. During the heyday of Florida-breds Holy Bull, Silver Charm and Skip Away, I painted a lot of stuff with their images on them.” After Silver Charm's near-sweep of the 1997 Triple Crown races, Norma McKathan commissioned Demme to paint a fire(above) Carol Demme with Florida-bred Silver Charm (below) Demme’s work on a coffe table
place screen of the striking gray horse racing exploits. McKathan's sons J.B. and Kevin sold Silver Charm privately as a 2-year-old in training to trainer Bob Baffert on behalf of owner Bob and Beverly Lewis. “The fireplace screen has three panels with Silver Charm's Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes races depicted on each,” said Demme. “To this day, it's still one of the favorite pieces that I've ever done. And recently, I actually visited Silver Charm at Old Friends in Kentucky. That was a great treat.” While being in involved in the Thoroughbred business through her artwork, Demme also caught the breeding bug. “I had raised and shown Quarter horses and Appaloosas, so I thought I'd try the Thoroughbred breeding business,” said Demme. “I had a small farm in Belleview, just south of Ocala, where I kept two mares. I really enjoyed having a couple of broodmares and raising their babies to sell privately as weanlings or yearlings.” One of Demme's broodmares was Beaudel, a 1986 chestnut mare by Beaudelaire out of Damsel, by In Reality. When bred to Way West (FR), Beaudel produced Western Beau, a multiple winner of $186,449.
FULL CIRCLE For personal reasons in 2000, Demme sold The Gift Horse and her small Belleview farm to relocate to the mountains Blairsville, Georgia, north of Atlanta. But she never lost touch with the Ocala-based Thoroughbred industry, returning to the area for OBS sales and artwork business. This past March, Demme bought a new house in Ocala and will now split her time between her two homes. While she is currently horseless, Demme does own two English Mastiffs, Kramer and Gus. “I never got disconnected from the Thoroughbred business and continued to do my equine-related artwork,” said Demme. “And I've done my part to bring a little Thoroughbred awareness to the Georgia mountains.” Two years ago, Demme organized a Kentucky Derby community watch party in Blairsville to raise money for a domestic violence charity. In addition to watching the Derby, there were equine-related items, including Demme's artwork, for sale to raise charity funds. Pleased with its success, Demme was involved again in another such party this year. For the 2016 Kentucky Derby party, Demme transformed a wooden house door into a stall door and painted 2015 Triple Crown winner American Pharoah standing in it and looking out. To complement the scene, Demme also painted a lawn jockey in owner Zayat Stables' silks. But something was still missing.
(above) Demme’s work with leather apparel (below) Demme with her American Pharoah door
“I had an old bridle and thought I'd put one of trainer Bob Baffert's signature blue shadow rolls on it and hang that on the outside of the stall door,” said Demme, and then added with a laugh, “Well, try finding a blue shadow roll in Blairsville, Georgia.” But Demme put her artistic creativity to good use and came up with an unlikely clever solution. “I thought I'd buy some material and make a blue shadow roll,” said Demme. “But while shopping for material, I spotted a blue fuzzy toilet seat cover. And that, of all things, ended up working out just perfectly to make a shadow roll.” The American Pharoah stall door also became the official phototaking spot for those attending the Kentucky Derby party. With a smile, Demme said, “People could say they had their picture taken with American Pharoah. Or at least with an artistic rendition of him.” Following the Kentucky Derby party, both the painted American Pharoah door, including the bridle and improvised blue shadow roll, and Zayat Stable lawn jockey were sold privately to two different clients. “I'm am delighted to have a home again in Ocala,” said Demme. “I just love being around the Thoroughbred business and driving around to the beautiful farms. Ocala truly is a special place. I've always felt so fortunate to live here and have my equine artwork received so well here. And I'm very happy being known as 'The Lawn Jockey Lady'.” HCD
Want To Know More? Facebook: Lawn Jockey Lady lawnjockeylady.com carolmooredemme.com gifthorse@windstream.net 706-897-7692/352-237-7607 www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest 39
Equine Events SEPTEMBER September 15 - 17 Pac West Barrel Racing Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. For more information visit: http://pacwestbarrelracing.com or www.marioncountyfl.org/departmentsagencies/departments-a-n/extensionservice/southeastern-livestock-pavilion-and-exten sion-auditorium or call 352-671-8600 September 15 - 17 “Four Seasons” Fall Quarter Horse Show Fox Lea Farm, Venice. For more information visit: www.foxleafarm.com or contact: Jacqueline Desormier (941) 809-6361; email: foxleafarm2@aol.com September 16 - 17 SEC Hunter Jumper Dressage Show Sumter Equestrian Center, Bushnell. For more information visit: www.sumterequestriancenter.com or contact Martin at 352-303-4325 September 17 STRIDE Dressage. Florida Horse Park. For more information visit www.stridedressage.org or www.flhorsepark.com or call (352) 307-6699 September 21 Florida Equine Institute & Allied Trade Show Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. For more information call Mark Shuffitt at (352) 671-8400. (Also see ad for more information) September 23 - 24 Marion Saddle Club Show Longwood Farm South. For more information call Kelly Myers at 352-572-6147, email: mschorseshow@gmail.com, or visit: www.mschorseshows.net
September 23 Florida Horse Sales Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. For more information visit: www.floridahorsesales.com or contact Ron & Pat Sanders at 813-361-6734, email: floridahorsesale@aol.com September 23 HPAF Benefit Show Canterbury Showplace, Newberry. For more information visitcanterburyshowplace.com; email: canterburyshowplace@gmail.com or call (352) 472-6758 September 23 Partners Of the Park XC Schooling Florida Horse Park. For more information visit www.flhorsepark.com or call (352) 307-6699 September 24 POP Schooling Show Florida Horse Park. For more information visit www.flhorsepark.com or call (352) 307-6699 September 24 Arredondo Dressage Schooling Show Canterbury Showplace, Newberry. For more information visitcanterburyshowplace.com; email: canterburyshowplace@gmail.com or call (352) 472-6758 September 29 - October 1 FTBOA bus trip to South Florida races FTBOA sponsors a bus trip from Ocala to the finals of the Florida Sire Stakes. The event weekend includes: bus trip and transfers, games and activities in transit, VIP Reception where fans FSS connections, Behind-the-Scenes stable tour (backside tour) and morning workouts on the track, Behindthe-Scenes of the Jockeys’ Room, VIP luncheon at the races with admission, seating, racing program, buffet, a chance to meet the track announcer and hear a race call live from the announcer booth, and discounted pricing for the host hotels (Hollywood Beach Marriott).For more information call Tammy Gantt at 352-629-2160.
Agriculture Tip of the Month “UF/IFAS recommends you should test your soils every few years to assess the amount of nutrients already in the soil and what needs to be added to the soil. Test results will provide fertilizer and lime recommendations that are specific to your soil. Obtain test kits from the county Extension office.” – Caitlin Bainum UF/IFAS Ag. Extension Specialist 40 Horse Capital Digest • September 2017
September 29 Florida Friesian Keuring Show Silver Sands Bridle Club, New Smyrna. For more information contact Christina Caporale at (386) 931 2733; email: Spumantistables@aol.com
2017 FLORIDA EQUINE INSTITUTE & ALLIED TRADE SHOW THURSDAY, SEPT. 21 8:00 A.M. TO 4:00 P.M. SOUTHEASTERN LIVESTOCK PAVILION Sessions/Topics · Equine Nutrition: Fiber Friend or Filler · Equine Health: How Stress can affect the horse’s response to disease challenges · Neurologic Diseases in Horses · Cedar Lock Farm Run for the Ribbons Thoroughbred Retirement live demo · Experiential Learning demonstrations · Equine Vital Signs; Equine Genetics and Weed Identification · Recognizing and addressing equine behaviors The University of Florida Extension program is committed to providing Florida horse owners with the most up-to-date equine management information and a working trade show Proceedings published by Florida Equine Communications
Contact Mark Shuffitt at the Marion County Extension Office (352) 671-8400 or Ed Jennings (352) 486-5131 Sign up at https://2017feiats.eventbrite.com
Equine Events September 30 - October 1 Florida High School Rodeo Association Florida Horse Park. For more information visit www.flhorsepark.com or http://fhsra.homestead.com/index.html
October 14 4-H Horse Specialty Show Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. For more information visit: www.horsespecialtyclub.com or call (352) 351-9557
OCTOBER
October 21 - 22 SEC Hunter Jumper Dressage Show Sumter Equestrian Center, Bushnell. For more information visit: www.sumterequestriancenter.com or contact Martin at 352-303-4325
October 6 Florida Thoroughbred Charities Golf Tournament Candler Hills. The tournament features 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. shotgun starts, a luncheon and awards reception. Sponsorship and team opportunities are available by calling 352-629-2160 or email info@ftboa.com for a packet.
October 21 POP XC Schooling Florida Horse Park. For more information visit www.flhorsepark.com
October 7 Florida Sheriffs Boys Ranch 60th Anniversary Open House and Horse Show Live Oak. For more information call 1-800-765-3797 or visit: www.youthranches.org
October 22 – POP Schooling Show Florida Horse Park. For more information visit www.flhorsepark.com or call (352) 307-6699
October 7 - 8 Hunt Country Horse Show Grand Oaks Resort, Weirsdale. For more information visit www.horseshowsinthepark.com or http://thegrandoaks.com/events
October 28 - 29 Hunt Country Horse Show Grand Oaks Resort, Weirsdale. For more information visit www.horseshowsinthepark.com or http://thegrandoaks.com/events
October 7 - 8 October Open Series Show Fox Lea Farm, Venice. For more information visit: www.foxleafarm.com or contact: Jacqueline Desormier (941) 809-6361; email: foxleafarm2@aol.com
October 29 STRIDE Dressage Show Florida Horse Park. For more information visit www.stridedressage.org or www.flhorsepark.com or call (352) 307-6699
October 7 - 8 Florida Ranch Horse Show Sumter Equestrian Center, Bushnell. For more information visit: http://floridaranchhorse.com; www.sumterequestriancenter.com or contact Martin at 352-303-4325 October 14 & 15 Sean Patrick Training Clinic Florida Horse Park. For more information visit www.seanpatricktraining.com/contact or www.flhorsepark.com or call (352) 307-6699 October 14 - 15 Southern Baroque Association Breed Show. Grand Oaks Resort, Weirsdale. For more information visit www.southernbaroqueassociation.com/spring-classic-march-2017/
NOVEMBER November 4 Ocklawaha River Raid Civil War Re-Enactment Florida Horse Park. For more information, contact Lt. Col. Keith Kohl at ltcol2ndbattalion@gmail.com or visit www.floridareenactorsonline.com/ events.html and www.flhorsepark.com November 4 - 5 Holiday Kick Off Dressage Show Canterbury Showplace, Newberry. For more information visitcanterburyshowplace.com; email: canterburyshowplace@gmail.com or call (352) 472-6758 www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest 41
Equine Events DAY OF THE MORGAN National AMHA Open Barn Day
October 28, 2017 Call for specific times
Central Florida locations: Bobbin Hollow Equestrian Center, Reddick 8990 NW 187th Ln. Reddick, FL 32686 Cheri Barber Stables, Reddick 9200 NW 125th St, Reddick, FL 32686 (352) 591-3225 Costa Nova, Pierson Tom Johnson, Vice President 980 Still Rd. Pierson, FL 32180 772-812-9729 tomj772@aol.com West Coast Morgans, Odessa 17126 Boy Scout Rd, Odessa, FL 33556 (813) 920-9870 Whispering Oaks Equestrian Center, Tampa 7631 Gardner Rd, Tampa, FL 33625 (813) 409-5272
LIKE US ON
November 4 - 5 Marion Saddle Club Show Longwood Farm South. For more information call Kelly Myers at 352-572-6147, email: mschorseshow@gmail.com, or visit: www.mschorseshows.net November 4 - 5 Florida Ranch Horse Show Sumter Equestrian Center, Bushnell. For more information visit: http://floridaranchhorse.com; www.sumterequestriancenter.com or contact Martin at 352-303-4325 November 4 - 5 November Open Show Series Fox Lea Farm, Venice. For more information visit: www.foxleafarm.com or contact: Jacqueline Desormier (941) 809-6361; email: foxleafarm2@aol.com November 10 - 12 Pac West Barrel Racing Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. For more information visit: http://www.marioncountyfl.org/departments-agencies/departments-a-n/extension-servic e/southeastern-livestock-pavilion-and-extensionauditorium or call (352) 671-8600 November 11- 12 Western Dressage Show Grand Oaks Resort, Weirsdale. For more information visit www.wdafl.org or http://thegrandoaks.com/events November 11 - 12 Florida Harvest Classic AQHA Show Canterbury Showplace, Newberry. For more information visitcanterburyshowplace.com; email: canterburyshowplace@gmail.com or call (352) 472-6758 November 11 4-H Horse Specialty Show Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. For more information visit: www.horsespecialtyclub.com or call (352) 351-9557
www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest/ 42 Horse Capital Digest • September, 2017
November 11 POP XC Schooling Florida Horse Park. For more information visit www.flhorsepark.com or call (352) 307-6699
November 12 POP Schooling Show Florida Horse Park. For more information visit www.flhorsepark.com or call (352) 307-6699 November 16 - 19 Ocala Jockey Club 2017 International 3-Day Event Ocala Jockey Club. For more information visit: www.ojc3de.com/ or call (352) 591-1212 November 16 - 19 Fox Lea Farm November Competition Fox Lea Farm, Venice. For more information visit: www.foxleafarm.com or contact: Jacqueline Desormier (941) 809-6361; email: foxleafarm2@aol.com November 17 - 19 Tour of Champions Barrel Race Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. For more information visit: www.tourofchamps.com November 18 - 19 SEC Hunter Jumper Dressage Show Sumter Equestrian Center, Bushnell. For more information visit: www.sumterequestriancenter.com or contact Martin at (352) 303-4325 November 18 - 19 Hunt Country Horse Show Grand Oaks Resort, Weirsdale. For more information visit www.horseshowsinthepark.com or http://thegrandoaks.com/events November 18 - 20 Florida Paint Horse Club Show Florida Horse Park. For more information visit http://www.floridapainthorseclub.org/shows-andevents/ or email: info@floridapainthorseclub.com November 24 - 26 Rice’s Annual Roping Florida Horse Park. For more information visit www.flhorsepark.com or call (352) 307-6699
DECEMBER December 1 - February 11 Winter Horse Festival Grand Oaks Resort, Weirsdale. For more information visit www.facebook.com/GrandOaksWinterHorseFestival/ or http://thegrandoaks.com/events
Equine Events PHOTO PROVIDED BY AMERICAN MORGAN HORSE ASSOCIATION
December 2 - 3 December Open Show Series Fox Lea Farm, Venice. For more information visit: www.foxleafarm.com or contact: Jacqueline Desormier (941) 809-6361; email: foxleafarm2@aol.com
Spotlight
December 8 - 10 Sneak Peek — 3-Day Event & Training Expo Grand Oaks Resort, Weirsdale. For more information visit: http://thegrandoaks.com/events
December 1 - 3 HITS Ocala Holiday Premiere For more information visit: www.hitsshows.com or email: info@hitsshows.com
December 1 - 3
December 13 - 17 Ocala Holiday Classic For more information visit: www.hitsshows.com or email: info@hitsshows.com December 15 - 17 Chris Cox Horsemanship Clinic Grand Oaks Resort, Weirsdale. For more information visit: http://thegrandoaks.com/events
North American Preliminary Championships Grand Oaks Resort, Weirsdale. For more information visit: http://thegrandoaks.com/events
December 1 - 3
December 16 - 17 Show Your Horse Western Dressage Show Florida Horse Park. For more information visit: www.flhorsepark.com or http://showyourhorsellc.com/events-calendar/
Southern Cowboy Classic Rodeo and Stock Show Florida Horse Park. For more information visit www.flhorsepark.com or contact Amanda Hayward (352) 446-4480, email: SouthernCowboyClassic@outlook.com
December 16 FTBOA Bus trip to Tampa Bay Downs races From Ocala to Tampa Bay Downs for the 2 threeyear-old FSS races. It is the City of Ocala and Marion County Day at the track. Call (352) 629-2160 for details.
Hymnbrook Abigail “Abby”, a 30-year-old Morgan mare, with 4-year-old rider Gretchen Ferrell. – Photo by Debbie Ferrell Cheri Barber Stables, Reddick, FL
December 2 - 3 Marion Saddle Club Show Longwood Farm South. For more information call Kelly Myers at (352) 572-6147, email: mschorseshow@gmail.com, or visit:
December 16 POP XC Schooling Florida Horse Park. For more information visit www.flhorsepark.com or call (352) 307-6699
www.mschorseshows.net December 2 - 3 FQHA Last Chance Show
December 17 POP Schooling Show Florida Horse Park. For more information visit www.flhorsepark.com or call (352) 307-6699
Jacksonville Equestrian Center, Jacksonville. For more information visit www.fqha.net December 2 - 3 Florida Ranch Horse Show
December 29 Cypress Springs Pony Club Winter Camp For more information visit: www.flhorsepark.com or call (352) 307-6699
Sumter Equestrian Center, Bushnell. For more information visit: http://floridaranchhorse.com; www.sumterequestriancenter.com or contact Martin at (352) 303-4325
December 29 - 31 7th Annual Stopanio Memorial Barrel Race Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. For more information visit: http://keytoheavenranch.com www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest 43
HCD
GLOBAL
Trekking Africa on Horseback
By Dawn Limehouse
Orlando to Johannesburg (a 25 hour flight), spent the night, and then boarded a small plane and flew to
y recent trip to Africa for a Horse Riding Safari via Back in the Saddle was definitely an adventure of a lifetime. My travelling companions were Tiffany Atteberry, DVM of Ocala and
M
Botswana. We landed on a small airstrip on the
Bernadette Schoppman of Tampa. We travelled from
loaded us up in a 12 seater jeep and drove us to
44 Horse Capital Digest • September 2017
Mashatu Game Reserve, from the air you see elephants, giraffe and many antelope species. We were met at the airport by our guides West and DT who
Limpopo Valley Horse Safaris. After lunch we were taken and introduced to the horses that were chosen for us. We had all filled out extensive questionnaires about our skill level and preferences on horse type. They had various breeds including boerperd, shire-thoroughbred crosses, appaloosas and friesian crosses. They ranged in size from 15 hands to 17 hands.We all rode in Maclellan saddles that were very comfortable. My horse Monate, was a saddlebred boerperd cross, who was a joy to get on each and every day with smooth gaits, light in hand, moved off my leg, was sure-footed and jumped like a deer. There were a total of eight people on our safari, three from the U.S., one from Brazil, and a gentleman from Paris. Once we had all mounted we rode out into the African wilderness with our guides , Lindy Hill - the owner - and several grooms. After about a mile, we stopped in an open area and everyone had to canter a large triangle one at a time. If you did not care for your horse at this point, you could switch with one of the horses the grooms (From left to right) Bernadette Schoppman, Dawn Limehouse and Tiffany Attebury, DVM
had rode out on. This was also a test to see if you could ride at a canter. If you failed the test you went back to the stables and were either resigned to riding in a jeep for the rest of the week or you were sent to their sister lodge in South Africa that was a much slower pace, in a more controlled environment as it was fenced. Everyone was an accomplished rider and happy with their mounts, so off we went with our guides to our first camp, the grooms and Lindy went back to the stables. That first afternoon riding along through the African wilderness as the sun was setting was surreal. The abundance of wildlife was incredible. The first day we saw giraffe, wildebeest, antelope and variety of birds. The guides were multi-lingual and gave a steady stream of information about the local ecology. The pace was walk and canter, no trotting. We spent the next seven days at three different camps. Most of the night we were in tents (with flushing toilets and hot showers). Two nights we spent under the stars in a palisade on cots around a fire. The food was wonderful and service was top notch. Horses were always tacked and untacked for the group and riders were met at the end of the rides with hot towels to clean up. We rode from 7 a.m. to 1 or 2 p.m. then ate lunch, took some time for ourselves at camp, and then went on a bush walk or game drive with the guides. Sundowners ( drinks while watching the sun go down) were a nightly activity, and our second night there they loaded us is a jeep and drove us to a huge rock overlooking the river and we climbed up ( crazy!!). We sat on the top and looked over the river and watched a large herd of elephants come to drink. We took in the phenomenal views enjoying wine. Dinner was always a multiple course extravaganza with almost everything cooked over an open fire. After dinner we would sit around the fire , the guides would continue to answer questions about the local flora and fauna as well as give impromptu astrology lessons. The stars were so bright out in the middle of nowhere with no towns, power lines or artificial sources of light. We could not believe the sheer amount of different animals we saw‌leopard, lions and cheetahs , giraffe, elephants many species of antelope, wildebeest, baboons, honey badger, civet hyenas. No one wanted to leave when it was time to go home even after we had ridden approx. 120 miles in seven days. Epic!! To see a short video showing the different types of terrain, visit www.inthesaddle.com/rides and select Botswana or Limpopohorsesafaris.com. HCD Editor’s Note: Dawn is an Ocala-area resident and works at Sparr Building & Farm Supply.
Experiencing Equines Travels around the Globe! Each month we will feature equine trips from around the globe introducing readers to first-hand accounts of exotic trips, new breeds and new experiences.
HCD
COMMUNITY
Horse Capital Supports Texas
By Tammy A. Gantt
I
f you haven’t been on social media lately, you may not realize the large-scale effort that is underway to provide support to devastated Texas horse owners in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. On August 28, a call between Bonnie and Kim Heath and the Werneth family of Finish Line Horse Vanning led to a full-scale community effort. The Heath family is known for the famed 1956 Kentucky Derby winner Needles who helped put Ocala on the map, but more importantly they humbly support the community at every opportunity. The same for the Werneth family that saw the great need facing Texas horsemen and had the means with their shipping company to make a difference. Immediately after the call, a call to action was made on Facebook and other social media, along with personal contact with equine clients and the horse community. This call to action led to several horse vans full of hay, feed, equipment, water, and other items being sent to Texas. The Werneth’s also prepared to haul horses to safe ground as they arrived to Texas prior to Labor Day. The power of the instant communication of social media and the widespread audience assisted efforts helping those note to others what’s been donated and also when new items have been needed. Melissa Anthony of Double Diamond Farm noted on her Facebook page, “I dropped of a few bags in the mommy car but my neighbor Sue Duncan added a 1,000 pounds of feed and 550 of dog food. Houston Bound!” Fred Moehring of Buckeye Feed noted on his Facebook page, “donated a ton of feed for the trip.” Tim Mawhinney of Daylight Farms, noted, “Same here. I dropped off a load of feed and dog food. Need bandages, shavings, etc. now. Thx to all involved.” By Thursday, August 30, Creech Horse Transportation with Chip Hudson and Mike Whalen were onboard with the items like hay, feed, water, skin and wound care products, rubber boats with pad-
46 Horse Capital Digest • September 2017
dles, shavings, generators, gas cans, tents, rope, work gloves, life vests, wire-cutters, chain saws, stall webbings, electrolytes, fluids and antibiotics. Creech has sent three trucks and collected supplies for at least two more stored in preparation of pending Hurricane Irma before transporting. Christine Jones noted on her Facebook on Sept. 1, “This is Christine at Creech, I'm HAPPY to let you know that Brookledge has just dropped off 200 bales of hay and 2 tons of feed which we are taking today.” She added, ”Let's all continue to stand up and pitch in to help! We have had so many people come by with donations it's very uplifting for sure.” The Ocala Equine Hospital and other medical clinics provided medical supplies like DMSO liquid, LRS fluids, IV lines, IV catheters, aluminum bandage, SSD cream, tetanus vaccine, previcox/equioxx, Bute, Banamine, Trimethoprim/sulfa, Blue-kote spray, Betadine scrub, Betadine solution, sedatives (dormosedan, xylazine) and exam gloves. Brookledge Horse Transportation also sent a truck from their Kentucky location with hay and feed. Berrentini Feed showed support by asking customers if they would like to buy a bale to send to Texas. The company was loading the donated hay to go to a larger trailer yesterday. The Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ & Owners’ Association received a number of calls for guidance on how to support Texas. Several local residents offered services to “foster” horses that may be displaced longer than a few days. In addition, the FTBOA contacted the Texas Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association to offer assistance and support. It was reported that there are about 100 horses at Sam Houston racetrack and that water as of Sept. 2 was still surrounding the facility but horses and personnel were safely onsite. Officials in Texas said they are thank-
ful for the support and also overwhelmed with positive calls for assistance. They are in the process of sorting through what is currently needed, what will be needed and where to assist. These are just some of the many efforts that the local horse and business community are making to assist the recent Texas disaster. In addition to local efforts, there are several equine specific disaster relief funds that you can donate to that will support the efforts of emergency response groups and organizations that are helping horses impacted by hurricanes. United States Equestrian Federation Equine Disaster Relief Fund: Developed in 2005 during the aftermath of Hurricanes Rita and Katrina, the USEF Equine Disaster Relief Fund was formed to help ensure the safety and well-being of horses during trying times. Since its inception, over $370,000 has been donated to aid horses across all breeds in disaster-related situations. All money donated to the fund is strictly used to benefit horses and horse owners, and the USEF will be working with the Houston SPCA to help animals that have been displaced. To donate to the USEF Disaster Relief Fund: https://www.usef.org/donate . American Association of Equine Practitioners Foundation Equine Disaster Relief Fund: The AAEP Foundation works with agencies and veterinary members in affected states to identify the needs of the equine community. Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International Disaster Relief Fund: The fund helps centers in need due to catastrophic disasters not normally covered by operating insurance. This includes flooding. The fund was started in 2005 to help centers with the damage inflicted by Hurricane Katrina. To donate or if your center is in need, go to https://www.pathintl.org/. For updated information, be sure to follow www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest HCD
www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest 47
Sept. 29 –Oct. 1 Roundtrip Ocala/Gulfstream Park in Hallandale, Fla
Enjoy Luxury ride with trivia, games, raffles, movies FSS reception with FTBOA Florida Sire Stakes connections and VIP guests Behind the Scenes morning track backside tour FSS Championship Day at the Races VIP Luncheon Lunch, official race program, admission and seating Behind the Scenes tours Winner’s Circle presentation opportunities Swag Bag and More!
FTBOA members $100 (includes one guest at same rate) Non-members Earlybird $125 After Sept. 1 $150 RSVP to 352-629-2160 or visit www.ftboa.com Bus departs Ocala - Friday Sept. 29 at 8 a.m., Bus departs South Florida, Sunday, Oct. 1 at noon leaving time for a morning beach stroll!
Plus: Bus transfers to and from the Beachwalk Resort and Hollywood Beach Marriott (official hotels)
Hotel stay not included, some meals not included. FTBOA special discount at Beachwalk Resort and Hollywood Beach Marriott. 42364
HCD
BusinessPlace
PLACE AN AD IN BUSINESS PLACE CALL 352.732.8858
Where your business gets the recognition it deserves Art Galleries
Professional
ONGOING
Bobbie Deuell
Fine Art Portraits
Florida Thoroughbred Museum & Gallery 801 SW 60th Ave., Ocala 34474 open Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Sally y Moehring ( (352) ) 895-8525
(closed noon to 1 p.m. and holidays) Free and open to the public.
www.bdfineart.net
cottagefarminc@gmail.com ail com
www w.equinetherapyint.com
Abrightideafarm@yahoo.com
ADVA VANCED EQUINE THERAPY SYSTEMS & EQUIPMENT
For information, call 352-629-2160
352-207-7820
Photography
Louise E. Reinagel
HORSE PHOTOGRAPHER
Visit me at www.horsesites.com/r E-Mail: limelightf@mfi.net
(352) 237-3809
Charities Marion Cultural Alliance
Brick City Center of Art MCA's mission is to be the catalyst and advocate for cultural impact in our community 23 SW Broadway St, Ocala, 34471 Open M-F • 11AM–5PM (352) 369-1500
Stirrups & Strides Therapeutic Riding Center Jammin’ at Jumbolair Extravaganza Charity Benefit 5 – 10 pm • December 2, 2017 Live auction, silent auction, dinner, dance and more! Tickets $75 per person $800 for table of 8 Call Betty Gray at 352-427-3569 Email: graytime@windstream.net www.stirrupsnstrides.com
Appleton Museum of Art - College of Central Florida 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL 34470-5001
Open: SUN - 12-5 p.m.; TUES – SAT - 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Florida Thorobred Fillies Charity JOIN TODAY Make Friends! Fun Events! Raise Funds with Bake Sales at OBS! Stop by the cake table at OBS on Oct. 10-12 for more information
Advertise in Horse Capital Digest’s Business Place! Only $45 per issue Call 352-732-8858 to reserve your space today. www.facebook.com/horsecapitaldigest 49
at Florida Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, 801 SW 60th Ave., Ocala FL 34474 The program gives inmates an opportunity to learn equine skills so they can find employment in Florida’s equine industry after release. The farm is funded by Florida Thoroughbred Charities, a subsidiary of Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association.
at Lowell Correctional Institute CH Registration number (CH8627) issued by the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE (800-435-7352) WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. Florida Horse of the Year Forbidden Apple / Photo by Sally Moehring