January Thaw Equine Expo 2012 Raises $3300 for Children's Wish

Contributed

The January Thaw Equine Expo 2012, the fifth annual event, saw expansive blue skies and crisp temperatures at Fredericton’s Capital Exhibition Centre.

Hundreds of horse people from across the Maritime Provinces came together to socialize, shop, and raise money for a great cause: The New Brunswick Children’s Wish Foundation. In addition to the $2 voluntary admission fee, visitors and exhibitors donated funds and prizes to raise a total of $3300 at the day-long event.

This year’s event saw many new exhibitors and attendees. Adrienne Strowbridge traveled to Fredericton from the Bridgewater, Nova Scotia area to attend the event for the first time. “It’s a great way to break up the winter season and to see horsey friends.” She continued, “It’s good to see what events each club has planned for the coming show season and to help Children’s Wish at the same time.”

A record number of exhibitors (49) displayed their wares at the event. Visitors could have picked up a new pick up and horse trailer to go with it. Booths showcased art, décor, tack, and bling for horses and humans. As they sipped hot apple cider from AtlanticRider.com and nibbled on treats from local 4-H clubs, horse enthusiasts could also join an organization, learn about feeding programs or hoof care, and sign up for riding lessons.

Co-organizers Karen Thomas (North Stream Farm Tack Shop) and Brenda Nason (Sundowner Atlantic/Holiday Ranch) were delighted with the day. Nason enthused, “It was great to see the coming together of the Maritime Equine community to support the Children’s Wish!”

Photo: (left to right)Toy Horse, Victoria O’Neill, Chantal O’Neill (Sub-Chapter Secretary), Danielle Labbe (Sub-Chapter Event Coordinator), Janice Bushey, Karen Thomas (January Thaw Organizer), Brenda Nason (January Thaw Organizer), Celene Landry (Sub-Chapter Vice-Coordinator).

Photo Credit: Pam MacKenzie Photography