May/130
Attention Horse Enthusiasts…Spring Barn Warming!
Come one, come all for a fun-filled day with the horses of Mid America Horse Rescue! We're celebrating our new home with a "barn warming," inviting friends, family and neighbors to get to know more about us on Sunday, May 19. Meet our rescue horses, take a tour, watch a live demonstration from natural horsemanship trainer Stormy Mullins, and top off the day with some tasty BBQ!
Register now at http://horserescuebarnwarming.eventbrite.com/#
We hope you can make it!
Margo, Buck and the Volunteer Crew
Mar/120
A Sanctuary Where Every Horse is a Star
Anyone that has volunteered at Mid America Horse Rescue knows that releasing a horse from its halter to join a corral full of others is a magical experience:
Enthusiastic and carefree, the horse kicks up a bit of dirt and canters over to his buddy to say hello, before rounding the corral in a series of footraces. The sleek brown figures float among the dust clouds, basking in their freedom.
Witnessing a moment such as this, one cannot help but feel the impact of Mid America Horse Rescue’s efforts in rescuing ex-racehorses from slaughter.
It's this awe-inspiring grace that inspired Normand Latourelle, creator of Cirque du Soleil, to develop the show Cavalia, http://www.cavalia.net/en. The "Equestrian ballet," opens in St. Louis on March 21.
Performed in the largest touring tent in the world, the horses to move freely, and are enhanced with multimedia projection, lighting, live music, acrobatics, dance and aerial artistry. The fairytale setting encourages the audience to discover the natural wonder of horses. Each act serves as a tribute to the relationship between man and horses throughout history.
According to Erick Villeneuve, director, "Everything is done with the horses in mind." Following a philosophy focused on nurturing the horses and maintaining their well-being, the bond is continuously strengthened by the amount of respect and tenderness given to the stars of the show. For the Cavalia team, performing each show is accomplishing "A dream of freedom, cooperation and harmony."
Touring for 9 years across North America and Europe, Cavalia features 38 riders, aerialists, acrobats, dancers, and musicians and 55 horses. The variety of breeds include: Appaloosa, Arabian, Ardennais, Belgian, Lusitano, Canadian, Comtois, Criollo, Oldenburg, Paints, Percherons, Quarter horses, Spanish purebreds and Warmbloods. Latourelle praises the horses as some of the greatest in the world.
At Mid America Horse Rescue, keeping the horses in the limelight is our mission as well. Saving them is our first act and enabling them to thrive is our concept.
We understand that each horse has a past and strive to understand them and their personalities. Each volunteer plays a role to fulfill the organization’s dream of second chances. Volunteers connect with the horses opening the gate for an exchange of hello and returning neigh, a good rub under the neck and a quick peppermint treat. Our horses find their own ways to get attention, following the fence line, prancing in pairs, or giving a grunt as you pass the stall.
Whether you are fortunate enough to see Cavalia or not, we invite you to come out for a visit to Mid America Horse Rescue, and experience the magic that takes place every single day at our stables.
The horse is at the center of everything we do, and it’s amazing what can be accomplished when horses and humans work together.
-Katie Schergen
Feb/120
TICKETS ON SALE NOW FOR MID AMERICA HORSE RESCUE’S “ST. LOUIS DERBY PARTY”
PRESS RELEASE
Contact:
Kristin Gumper
(314) 630-5459
kristin.gumper@yahoo.com
Katie Schergen
(314) 740-5955
katieschergen79@webster.edu
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TICKETS ON SALE NOW FOR MID AMERICA HORSE RESCUE'S "ST. LOUIS DERBY PARTY"
Funds generated will help rescue, rehabilitate and retrain ex-racehorses
ST. LOUIS (February 29, 2012) – On May 4, 2012, Mid America Horse Rescue (MAHR) invites all to celebrate the 138th running of the Kentucky Derby by attending “St. Louis Derby Party,” a fundraising event to rescue ex-racehorses from slaughter, which is a practice that could be restored in the U.S. following the lift of the November de facto ban.
Funds gathered from the event will go directly to the care and nourishment of the rescued Thoroughbreds, who are awaiting training for therapy programs to serve people in need.
Tickets cost $75 and are available for purchase before Friday, April 27, at http://derbypartyhorserescue.eventbrite.com. Attendees will be treated to wine, beer and the comfort of southern style hors d’oeuvres at The Four Seasons hotel in downtown St. Louis from 7:30 to 11 p.m.
In light of the lifted ban on horse slaughter, “St. Louis Derby Party” celebrates the lives of these noble creatures and showcases the opportunities for second chances once they stop winning.
“We believe that by retraining Thoroughbreds, which are naturally intuitive, intelligent and athletic creatures, we can transform the racing industry,” said Margo Sutter, MAHR founder. “By giving unwanted ex-racehorses the retraining they need to carry out their next purpose, they can become service animals, and profoundly enhance the lives of those with disabilities or life challenges.”
In 2011, MAHR launched new therapy programs in collaboration with Arise Equine Therapy. In addition, through collaborative efforts with the racing industry, MAHR helped kick-start aftercare programs, such as the Illinois Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association Galloping Out program. Programs such as these support vibrant new lives for ex-racehorses.
Guests will hear about successful ex-racehorses now thriving in the Midwest, and from legendary Derby jockeys, who will bring guests to the forefront of the racing action. Silent and live auctions and a raffle will feature items such as VIP tickets to the Arlington Million, private stable tours, stone cellar wine tastings, and unique dining experiences provided by Cardinal Club Chef Alex Eusebio. Attendees will walk the red carpet, and sip on Churchill Downs’ official libation, the mint julep (available for purchase in souvenir glasses to benefit the organization). Ladies are highly encouraged to don their derby hats for the Derby Hat Competition.
Join MAHR in saving these noble creatures and providing programs that make a difference by purchasing tickets to the event at http://derbypartyhorserescue.eventbrite.com. All proceeds will go directly to the Thoroughbreds, who are in desperate need of funding for food and retraining. Those who would like to help but are unable to attend can make a donation via the same page.
About Mid America Horse Rescue:
Mid America Horse Rescue, a non-profit organization based in Millstadt, Ill., was founded in 2008 to fill a void in the horse racing industry. The group rescues, rehabilitates and retrains ex-racehorses for adoption, or for therapy programs to serve people in need. The organization also assists the racing industry by encouraging the development of retirement funds to support horses after their racing career is finished (often retired at only four-years-old). The facility currently cares for about 50 Thoroughbreds – with needs ranging from training and complex medical care, to simply love. It is one of only 13 licensed equine rescue facilities in Illinois. We need financial support in order to continue operating the rescue and shelter facilities.
Please join our mission at www.midamericahorserescue.org.
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Editors Note: Please contact Kristin Gumper at kristin.gumper@yahoo.com or (314) 630-5459, or Katie Schergen at katieschergen79@webster.edu or (314) 740-5955 for photography of the rescued Thoroughbreds.
Feb/120
A Volunteer’s Take – And Invitation
Hello fellow equine enthusiasts. My name is Corey Hudson and I have been volunteering at Mid America Horse Rescue (MAHR) for 1.5 years. Before that, I volunteered at another equine rescue for 4 years. Thanks to MAHR, I met my boy Chap, the ex-racehorse that I adopted in 2011.
I got involved in volunteering because I learned about the uncertain fate that horses now face. These majestic creatures – whose ancestors we credit for helping to build this country – are being discarded as if they are no longer have any use. Their fate often ends in neglect, abuse or even slaughter.
Now more than ever, horses desperately need the assistance and support of horse owners and equine enthusiasts.
What makes MAHR different than other rescue facilities is a unique idea that has just recently taken shape. MAHR's concept involves rehabilitating and retraining ex-racehorses (primarily Thoroughbreds) for equine assisted therapy programs.
The concept not only benefits the horse by making it a useful tool to mankind, it also enhances the lives of those who need this type of rehabilitation (both horses and humans).
As a seasoned volunteer, I must say that volunteering is not easy, but it sure is fun. It's physically demanding and a person needs to be in pretty good shape to work at the facility. Regardless, the work is so satisfying knowing you are caring for the horses by giving them a second chance.
If you would like to learn more, or are thinking about volunteering or supporting Mid America Horse Rescue, we encourage you to join us on May 4, 2012, at the St. Louis Derby Party. The fundraiser will support the care and nourishment of these noble creatures, and allow us to share more with you about how ex-racehorses can enhance the lives of those with disabilities or life challenges. Just be sure to purchase your tickets by April 6 via http://derbypartyhorserescue.eventbrite.com.
It will be a great time for a great cause and I guarantee you'll be inspired. On behalf of the volunteer crew at Mid America Horse Rescue, I hope to see you there!
-Corey Hudson
Feb/120
St. Louis Derby Party!
On May 4, 2012, Mid America Horse Rescue invites you to celebrate the 138th running of the Kentucky Derby by attending “St. Louis Derby Party!”
The fundraiser is slated as THE Derby Party in the Midwest – and even better – funds will provide food, shelter and medical care for more than 50 ex-racehorses at Mid America Horse Rescue.
Purchase tickets by April 6 via http://derbypartyhorserescue.eventbrite.com!
Feb/121
Service or Disservice; Diligence and Integrity
This tragic story brings to light a pertinent issue in the equine industry – integrity. We must always consider whether we are doing a service or disservice to the horse in everything we do.
At Mid America Horse Rescue, we work extremely hard to rehabilitate, retrain and be as diligent as possible throughout the entire application and adoption process. It’s one of the many reasons why our adoption application is so thorough.
It is our job to ensure that as we rescue, we’re not just flipping horses. We are making sure in every possible way that these great and noble creatures are going to loving homes, where they can lead vibrant, successful and productive lives.
http://www.paulickreport.com/news/ray-s-paddock/kelsey-lefever-every-one-of-them-is-dead/
Jan/120
Happy New Year, Baby!
This time of year reminds me of new beginnings, and all that we have to look forward to at Mid America Horse Rescue. As I've Said to our volunteers, 2012 is our year, baby!
As I look back, I think of the lives we've touched, including the lives of several special horses.
On Aug. 4, 2008, we saved three pregnant mares at a Fairmount Park paddock sale. Rapid Presence, aka "Rae Anne," was scheduled to deliver last. As her belly grew, so did our love for her.
Since I have yet to experience the birthing process, I was hoping to witness the arrival of each of our new babies. For three weeks, I slept in the tack room to ensure I was there for their births. Baby No. 1, aka "Pea," arrived the first night I wasn't on duty, January 31, 2009. Baby No. 2, aka "Belle," arrived while I was on a work trip in Phoenix, May 12, 2009.
Naturally, I stationed myself in the barn for Baby No. 3 as soon as I returned home. I had gone from beautiful accomodations at the Biltmore Hotel to sleeping on a 900-pound hay bale. But the miracle I was about to experience made it all worthwhile!
Thankfully, when Rae Anne's labor began, I was on duty! I immediately called the staff and our incredible veterinarian, Dr. Allen Mueller.
At first, Rae Anne paced, but finally, she laid down in the stall to give birth. My first sight of her foal began with a shiny black hoof, followed by two long, slender legs and a beautiful dark head. Positioned feet-first, this little fluff of life looked like a diver about to cut through the water.
Dr. Mueller stayed on the phone coaching us through the entire birth. The foal was big compared to his mama. With the front legs out and the head clear, the shoulders were next! We worked with the mare's contractions, but passing the shoulders was presenting a problem.
I had a soft, clean cloth and was removing the sack, clearing the nostrils and ears, massaging this little baby and waiting to see any signs of life. Dr. Mueller suggested slightly rocking the foal to help the shoulders clear and we did just as he said. As soon as the shoulders cleared, a baby BOY slid into our arms. But he wasn't breathing.
His little purple tongue hung limp from his mouth. With his eyes still shut, I cradled him, whispering to him, willing him to breathe. We reached beyond the foal’s lips and tickled his roof of the mouth to trigger the sucking reflex. In that moment, our baby boy gulped in his first huge breath, popped those beautiful brown eyes open and looked me straight in the eye.
To feel the rush of life flow into a living creature's body for the first time, to be the first living creature this little boy ever experienced made me cry like a baby! It moved me to my core. I will go through the rest of my life understanding how rare this occurrence is. My respect for God's creatures, and respect for the gift of life could not have been more deepened.
Now at the dawn of 2012, our baby boy, Troubadour, just turned 3 (according to Thoroughbred registry it was January 1st...but we know his REAL birthday is May 19th).
Troubadour is loved unconditionally and will never know a bad day in his life. He will never have to face the possibility of slaughter like other racehorses. Instead, he was given the gift of life by Mid America Horse Rescue. This year, he will flourish even more as he begins his training program.
2012 is our year baby! Happy Birthday Troubadour and our other babies at the farm!
Happy New Year and many blessings to all. Please come visit us and watch us grow!
Oct/110
A Night with Mid America Horse Rescue Fundraiser – November 10, 2011
Come one, come all to an evening of fun, food, and helping more than 50 gorgeous Thoroughbreds!
We cordially invite you to our inaugural Night with Mid America Horse Rescue (MAHR). During the event, ideally timed just a week after the Breeders Cup Classic, we'll raise money to help save the horses that we've cheered on throughout the racing season.
Why? Although horse racing is a thriving American sport and pastime, nothing protects the lives of these noble creatures once they stop winning. MAHR rescues these horses who are not fortunate enough to have aftercare programs in place, yet have so much more to give, and rehabilitates them to serve people in need.
During the event, we'll introduce you to Fran Natoli, founder and program director of Arise Equine Therapy, who will share how these horses can improve the lives of children and adults who are mentally and physically challenged. Horses naturally mirror people's emotions, which leads to awareness on a deeper level. Therapy participants often build confidence, trust, patience, and self-esteem.
Together with our friends, horses, and Natoli's assistance, MAHR is launching its therapy services in collaboration with Arise Equine Therapy. Attendees will be among the first to hear how these services will benefit the community in the coming year.
Also attending the event will be Alex Brown, horse welfare advocate and New York Times-published author of Greatness and Goodness: Barbaro and his Legacy. Brown has brought national awareness to horse welfare through the legacy of Barbaro, the racehorse who fought for life after his Kentucky Derby win. Signed copies of Brown’s book will be available for purchase.
Attendees will be treated to an open bar featuring handcrafted beer, wine and mixed drinks, and an array of appetizers including juicy beef tenderloin and ribs with orange habanero barbecue glaze, cracked wheat salad with grilled vegetables, smoked turkey and white bean soup and delectable desserts. The evening will also include a 50-50 raffle and a Smoke in Mirrors auction.
RSVP: Purchase tickets for $75 (per person) by Monday, October 31. The more the merrier -- please share this invite with your friends and fellow equine enthusiasts. For questions, call Margo Sutter at 314-302-2216. All proceeds will go directly to our rescued thoroughbreds, who are desperately in need of funding for food.
PURCHASE TICKETS: http://fundraiserformahr.eventbrite.com
Jun/110
Mid America Horse Rescue Launches “Fill the Hay Wagon” Fund Drive
Contact: Kristin Gumper
(314) 630-5459
kristin.gumper@yahoo.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Mid America Horse Rescue Launches "Fill the Hay Wagon" Fund Drive
ST. LOUIS (May 27, 2011) – As Preakness winner Shackleford and Kentucky Derby winner Animal Kingdom gear up to face each other in the Belmont Stakes on June 11, 2011, one local non-profit is gearing up for a race of another kind. Mid America Horse Rescue, which rescues and rehabilitates ex-racehorses for adoption, is launching is first annual "Fill the Hay Wagon" fund drive campaign.
The horse rescue currently cares for about 50 horses, several with direct bloodlines to famous racehorses Secretariat, the only undefeated Triple Crown winner Seattle Slew, and Deputy Minister. Funds to pay for food and shelter for these horses are running dangerously low. Mid America Horse Rescue hopes the fund drive will help generate the vital donations necessary to help care for the horses it has rescued throughout the greater Midwestern region.
To make a donation to the "Fill the Hay Wagon" fund drive, visit http://www.midamericahorserescue.org and click on the Donate Now link to pay via debit or credit through PayPal. Or, send a check payable to Mid America Horse Rescue at P. O. Box 1032, Columbia, Ill., 62236.
"This fundraising drive is vital to creating the financial support needed to continue rescuing the Thoroughbreds that so many of us cheer on throughout the racing season," said Margo Sutter, founder and president of Mid America Horse Rescue. "With the support of our local and racing communities, together we can continue to move forward."
In addition to the “Fill the Hay Wagon” fund drive, Mid America Horse Rescue is seeking corporate sponsors to support equine assisted therapy programs to serve adults and children with disabilities. (Two horses at the rescue have already been selected to fill this need.) Mid America Horse Rescue also hopes to establish industry regulations and funding to support aftercare programs, in addition to building America’s premier equine rescue and rehabilitation facility.
Since 2008, Mid America Horse Rescue has transitioned more than 200 horses into loving homes. While a significant step, this number represents only a fraction of the need that remains. Although horse racing is a thriving industry in the U.S. and numerous horses are bred each year to compete, nothing protects the lives of these noble creatures once they stop winning.
About Mid America Horse Rescue:
Mid America Horse Rescue, a non-profit organization based in Millstadt, Ill., was founded in 2008 to fill a void in the horse racing industry. The group rescues, rehabilitates and retrains ex-racehorses for adoption, or for therapy programs to serve people in need. The organization also assists the racing industry by encouraging the development of retirement funds to support horses after their racing career is finished (often retired at only four-years-old). The facility currently cares for about 50 Thoroughbreds – with needs ranging from training and complex medical care, to simply love. It is one of only 13 licensed equine rescue facilities in Illinois, and the southern-most facility in the U.S. We need financial support in order to continue operating the rescue and shelter facilities. Please join our mission at www.midamericahorserescue.org.
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Editors Note: Please contact Kristin Gumper at kristin.gumper@yahoo.com or (314) 630.5459 for photography of the rescued Thoroughbreds.
Dec/100
$25,000 Pepsi Refresh Grant – WE NEED YOUR VOTES
We are in the running for a $25,000 Pepsi Refresh Grant - WE NEED YOUR VOTES
http://pep.si/dOrKDb - VOTE EVERY DAY!!!
Mid America Horse Rescue is in the $25,000 category. Be sure to show your support! Spread the word and get your friends and family involved. This is OUR grant to care and retrain a portion of OUR herd.