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Equestrians Band Together to Support Parkland Community in Aftermath of School Shooting

by Guest Contributer February 25, 2018

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Equestrians Band Together to Support Parkland Community in Aftermath of School Shooting 2

Sally Mitchell, in black T-shirt, with her children, Broward Sheriff’s Office deputies and Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School officials.

By: by Grace Delanoy

Spectrum Saddle Shop is rounding up support for local equestrian facilities and groups that are stepping up to help fellow community members in the wake of the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland.

“This is a close-knit community of people and businesses that come together in times of need,” said Spectrum owner Ellie Scofield. “Many are equestrians who I know personally as customers at the shop, and as students at my barn at Galloways Farm.”

Scofield learned yesterday that Katelyn Williams, a local rider and MSD student, was collecting donations and auction items for the family of shooting victim Aaron Feis, an assistant football coach at the school. “When I heard that, I just had to pitch in and help her,” said Scofield, who is donating merchandise to aid in her fundraising efforts.

“Another project we are working on is getting customized riding shirts with #MSDStrong printed on the sleeve for riders who want to show their support,” she said. She has teamed up on this effort with close friend and former Parkland Horseman’s Association president, Sally Mitchell, whose two children attend MSD and were there the day of the shooting.

“I’ve also been inspired by two local facilities that are offering equine assisted therapy to those who are struggling after this horrific event,” said Scofield. “I reached out to my vendors to provide those facilities with supplies and horse care products for their use during these sessions, and the response is phenomenal. I’m grateful to those that have committed so far, which include Ariat, DSB Boots, English Riding Supply, Kastel Denmark, Kerrits, Majyk Equipe, Noble Outfitters, R.J. Classics and Waldenhausen.”

The equine facilities offering to help those affected include Wattland II in Parkland (call Dawn Watt at 954-520-5561), Stable Place in Davie (call 954-790-0270), and The Lucky Horse Sanctuary in Coconut Creek (call Dr. B.B. Rice 561-860-1404).

“I would like to invite anyone – child or adult – to my barn who needs to just get away and enjoy the tranquility of the fresh air and animals. Horses are such great therapy animals,” said Dawn Watt, Wattland II owner, and mother of two MSD students.

The Lucky Horse Sanctuary is providing a safe therapeutic home school environment for students who are not able to return to school following the traumatic incident.

Spectrum Saddle Shop is located at 6738 N State Rd 7 (441) in Coconut Creek, FL 33073 For more information, contact Ellie Scofield at ellie@spectrumsaddleshop.com or call 954-326-8703.