Summer concert to benefit adults with love of animals

The staff of Bright Future Equestrian Center recently began welcoming visitors with physical and mental challenges.  Visitors, with the help of the staff, have begun to learn about the needs of animals living at the facility on Columbia Highway/Highway 412 E.

To date, adults such as those who work through programs at Buffalo River Services, have learned to groom, feed and interact with horses, cows and goats.

Director of Lewis County’s Buffalo River Services group Rose Lynn DePriest said her group “Is loving it. We are blessed to have a place like that.”

“We had a couple who were scared and did not want to be close to the animals.  It has brought them out, made them more outgoing.  They are teaching them how handle the animals, feed them, what the animals eat and why and how to take care of them,” DePriest said.  “They are really good folks.”

Linda and Donny Hinson wanted to do more when they learned some of their visitors wanted to learn to ride.  With special needs comes the need for special equipment.

After much research and instructor certification, Bright Future announced this week it is almost ready to accommodate riders of all abilities.

A benefit concert and cookout is planned for July 18, 2009 beginning at 6:30 p.m.  Newday Records and Soundsmith Studios of Nashville’s recording artist Justin Davis will perform and be available for autographs, staff members said.

Funds raised will benefit the handicapped accessible horseback riding program.