Unaka – The community gathered at High Lonesome Therapeutic Equestrian Center to celebrate Cheyenne as the new mascot Saturday.
Cheyenne had already solidified herself as a local staple by participating in Unaka Community Development Club events. Last year at the first Fall Festival, Lauren Diltz, executive director of High Lonesome, brought out Cheyenne to help hand out candy for Trunk or Treat.
Kids were able to pet and interact with Cheyenne. She has also been a main guest High Lonesome events, like the annual Easter egg hunt, and seems to enjoy taking photos with visitors.
The race for Unaka’s mascot wasn’t uncontested. The idea began with Rob Willis, who suggested to his wife, Holly Willis, president of the Unaka club, that they create a fun Facebook competition for residents to help choose a mascot to represent the community. Holly shared the idea and posted a photo of their dog, Colette, as the first entrant.
Corrie Lorenzi, vice president of High Lonesome, quickly shared photos of Cheyenne, officially throwing the miniature horse into the ring. Ultimately, with Cheyenne and her past record of community engagement, Colette conceded.
“We knew we had struck gold with Cheyenne,” Holly Willis said.
Cheyenne, who is 16 years old, was donated to High Lonesome by Kinlee Herr.
“I wasn’t even born before my parents decided I was going to be a girl who loved horses,” she said.
Herr’s parents purchased Cheyenne when she was just 1 year old. Herr and Cheyenne have spent their whole lives together.
Today, Herr is a sophomore at Murphy High School and junior equine manager for High Lonesome. Herr has dedicated countless hours training Cheyenne into a friendly and gentle horse.
Holly Willis has big plans for the club in 2026. She’s excited for the opportunities people will have to engage with the community. Cheyenne is going to be incorporated into as many events as possible, bringing joy to all.
Details: Visit the Unaka Community Development Club’s Facebook page and highlonesomestables.org.