By Paula Lorentzen
Published: March 24, 2008

The past few years have seen a plethora of horse expos in Virginia and Maryland. We typically think of horse expos as huge affairs set in giant stadiums or convention centers.

Large crowds mill around vendors tables, and tickets are sold to see demonstrations by exhibitors and clinicians. This year will be no different, as the Equine Extravaganza comes to Richmond Oct. 31 through Nov. 2. We are used to seeing these events in the spring, but certain factors necessitated the move to the fall.

First, April was getting pretty crowded with equestrian events. Breeders with working stallions and mares in foal expressed concerns with the April date. And the vendors voiced a vote for the fall because of the increased shopping in the pre-holiday season. What will we do until Fall without a Horse Expo?

An enterprising Sherri Mincks has organized a local Horse Expo right here in Culpeper. Sherri said the idea came to her out of a need to make use of the many local talents we have in our community. Most importantly the proceeds of the day will be donated to Local 4-H Clubs and the Rappahannock Animal Welfare League.

The event takes place March 29, at the Culpeper Agriculture Enterprise at 10220 James Madison Highway. in Culpeper. Don’t miss this opportunity to attend an equine extravaganza locally. In addition to vendors and shopping, there will be giveaways and pony rides. Arrive at 9 a.m. and visit the vendors. Then take your pick of what’s in the sale ring.

At 9:30 a.m. James Roy, farrier, will give a demonstration on hoof problems. At 10:30 a.m. Dr. Chris Robertson, DVM, will explain what happens in a pre-purchase exam. At 11 a.m., Daniela Meyer from Purina Mills will expain about managing the diet of the easy keeper. At noon, Dale Mincks, master electrician, will talk about electrical safety in the barn. At 12:30 p.m. , you can learn about horse pasture management from Butch Johns and Dr. Chris Teutsch.

At 2:30 p.m., Carrie Swanson, an animal science extension agent, will discuss nutrition for the active horse and also at 2:30 p.m., Cindy Brown from CFC Farm and Home will discuss products that keep your horse healthy.

In the X-Barn at 9:30 a.m., Larry Wise will teach you how to harness a team. At 10:30 a.m. Charles and Michele Pellham will teach the art of horsemanship. At 11:30 a.m. Milanie Bayne will give a walking horse demonstration and at 12:30 p.m. Joyce Sims will give an English Hunter/Jumper Demonstration. At 1:30 p.m. Charles Pelham will show you how to load a horse on a trailer safely. And, you don’t want to miss the pasture walk by Carl Stafford, extension agent, outside at 10:30. Meet in front of the sale ring for that. It’s going to be hard to decide which to do.

What an unbelievable value at $5 admission for adults and free for kids under 12. Please leave your dogs at home. For more information call the Culpeper Extension Office at 727-3435. See you there.

Paula Lorentzen is a staff writer for the Culpeper Star Exponent.
If you have an item of interest visit Paula’s Web site at paulalorentzen.lnfre.com.