Andrews – Music emanated from Jimmy’s Pick N Grin on Nov. 11, and for a good cause.
High Lonesome Therapeutic Equestrian Center in Hanging Dog held its annual Hoedown fundraiser, which was attended by about 65 people. Those who came out were more than happy to help the cause.
The Hoedown offered an evening of dining, drinking and dancing, peppered with personal testimonies from folks who have been touched by the services of High Lonesome.
Local resident Kim Johnson’s daughter, Emma, has a seizure disorder. With tears in her eyes, Kim said, “Our daughter’s first lesson was in January. It took about 15-20 minutes to get her confidence to get on the horse.
“Lauren did that, and once Emma got on I cried. Her confidence on the horse, Lauren’s patience when working with her and the volunteers all helped Emma.
“In August, Emma was a solo rider. We are very blessed to have Lauren and High Lonesome in our lives.”
The silent auction was made amazing by generous folks and businesses in the community, who gave their talents and products in order to create the variety of items on display. Some of the auction items included knives, framed paintings and photography, baskets with various goodies, jewelry, handmade acrylic and wood pens, and gift cards.
There were also door prizes given away. Folks were anxiously hoping their ticket number was the next one pulled.
The Steve Jordan Band played throughout the evening, giving those who wanted to dance a reason. And there were plenty of good eats provided by Smoky Mountain BBQ.
The High Lonesome Horse of the Year title went to Little Bob. He is 20 years old, funny, gentle, lazy, eats a lot and has a big heart, earning him the prestigious award.
The money raised from the fundraiser will go toward creating a proper riding arena, as the current one is uneven and difficult for some riders. High Lonesome has had to turn down a few riders as a result of the terrain, and the money will go a long way toward fixing those issues.
“This is great,” Anthony El-Khouri said of the evening. “When I first heard about High Lonesome Equestrian, there didn’t
seem to be anything else like it in the area. It seemed like
a great concept to help anyone who’s challenged with PTSD or physical or mental challenges.
“The least I could do was to come out and support this nonprofit. Hopefully they’ll grow, and they’ll be able to continue helping this community. The money will be put to good use.”
Everyone seemed happy and received a parting gift of a Mason jar filled with sunflowers at the end of the evening.
“We’ve recently received a grant, and some of that money will go toward starting a veterans program, which will be free to the veteran for their service,” said Lauren Dilts, executive director of High Lonesome.
For details or to donate, call 828-835-3739 or visit highlonesomestables.org.