Fund raiser benefits the disabled

To the editor:

People around this region are awesome. Their generosity once again is making an impact on children and adults with disabilities. We hosted a barbecue and barn dance to benefit Mississippi Valley Therapeutic Horsemanship. More than 400 people bought tickets and gave of their resources to help this worthy program.

This successful event would not have happened without Dr. Michael Jessup, a board member who continues to open his heart and home to promote this cause. Other volunteers who devoted countless hours include Linda and Eddie Farrow, Betsy Rigdon, Leah Shrum and the Don Seyer family.

The band Santa Cruz -- Doug Rees, Mark Rees, Roger Blankenship and Dan Tetley -- played enthusiastically in the heat without pay.

People couldn't stop talking about the incredible smoked meat. This is the second year Ryan Davis of Wild West Barbecue has donated his expertise and equipment. Many others made desserts and helped prepare potato salad, slaw and beans.

The auctioneers, Dave and Maxine Hale and all their family, volunteered their time and talents.

Randy McWilson of the Cape Girardeau Career and Technology Center used footage shot by Dr. David Crowe for a beautiful video showing how the program works and giving our vision for the future.

Tricia LaFoe and Red Letter Communications graciously used their talents to develop a quality brochure explaining the program and our goals.

A heartfelt thank you to all who helped, bought tickets and opened your hearts to our program.

AMY JACQUIN, President, Mississippi Valley Therapeutic Horsemanship Board, Cape Girardeau