2020's
2021
- Launch of our New Website!!
Thank you Thea for getting us this far. Thank you Flipcause for never calling me crazy while I asked such novice questions about bringing a website to life. Thanks to my 'proof readers' but especially to Tom for the hours spent caring about us through such daunting challenges.
Began as a very difficult year while we 'clean up' from an outsider's devastation. We rejoice in our freedom once more to move forward and find our way back to the peace and safety of our haven.
One of our mares will turn 36 this year; 2 volunteers will turn 69, Laurie's mom turned 94 and our flock of whistling ducks are already returning for the season! A doe goat we took care of for a friend is due to kid any day and a dear friend hopes to move up this way before summer's end!
We met wonderful new medical friends! Drs. Cliff Zucco & Amy Leider, DVMs befriended us in the parking lot of one of our favorite restaurants in Dunnellon, Florida. They are currently relocating to our areas from Kentucky, so soon the horses will have other mobile vets to call upon! We also lucked out when a very gifted chiropractor, Raquel, came to our farm by mistake looking for a neighbor! After some chat to meet each other properly, she came back and treated several horses. They were happy and we are impressed. We hope to have her back soon!
2020
2 longtime friends made arrangements several years ago to send their animals to us if and when their lives changed in such a way as to need a different lifestyle. Ironically, 2020 brought changes to each of their lives so their animals joined us in making our home, theirs. 2 adorable Shetland ponies and an incredibly handsome Thoroughbred stallion settled in to make new friends at our sanctuary.
A wonderful man who participated in a live-in apprenticeship in 2017 returned to us in January to volunteer and "spend the rest of my life" at the farm! Bruce Patterson is a recorded musician and songwriter, retired semi-pro football player, real estate banker, a dad and granddad who now calls Amik Run his home. The animals adore him and his whimsical ways, while he feeds every animal on the farm and we all benefit from his guitar serenades!
We met Debbie of 'Debbie's Dog Grooming' when a volunteer brought our 115lb Maremma dog in for a shampoo and rinse! What a lovely job and very nice people. Tonkah will be back to visit his new friends as his intense coat requires!
2 of our co-founders were asked by the CHI institute to join them in filming a PBS special; we can't wait to see how it comes out! Meeting Richard was such a pleasure, what a charismatic man; he is a wealth of knowledge and has made a new addition to his already amazing products. We are so honored to be a part of their 'Tribe"!
Our eldest cat turned 20! Her vet said he knows 20yr old people who aren't in as good shape! Mild cataracts beginning but otherwise, even after surviving a stroke 6 years ago, she was in perfect health; purred and cuddled with her doctor!
A turtle, goldfish and a pleco were added to our family when they outgrew their previous haven! Moma B Turtle moved into a pond to meet her previously single boyfriend. If they were to wed we may be blessed with little ones! Dhoe, Rhea and Mhee (ducks) adored her addition to their world of water while they all awaited the return of the whistlers.
2019
3 of our horses turned 34!
Tragedy struck our lives when trespassers attacked our farm for five months, cutting fences, stabbing and maiming 14 horses, killing one, permanently crippling 3. 28 wounds, 3 vet clinics, 5 veterinarians, lots of police but the demented perpetrators were never apprehended. We will never forget the fear but as survivors, we step on, one foot in front of the other, in the hopes each day will be brighter and each heart will heal in the best way we can...
Our haven was graced with the presence of over 100 wild Whistling Ducks! What a joyous sound they make, and what a gentle bird. We hope they stay for a while, maybe to migrate back to us yearly?
We put together a new paddock, specially made with elder horses in mind. How to have full view of the farm, grass, shade, be carefully watched over from the house, yet privacy to enjoy their days as they wish.
Our co-founder, De, finally got her Boxer service dog and what an amazing girl she is! Thank you Triple J Ranch for another super addition to our family!
2018
Setting up our new farm , as expected, has been a challenge but oh, what a JOY! We love the weather, property, neighbors.
We had another Celebration of Life to Honor Lynn Peck and her role in our hearts and lives. Friends shared stories about Lynn with their animals or her role in their own well-being. Although 4 hateful people and some of their friends saw fit to destroy most of her life's work, Lynn's spirit will remain here with the farm she helped procure and where she had intended to reside to teach and be with the horses she loved so much.
Laurie continued with her teaching travels to the Panhandle, St. Augustine, Manatee and Sarasota Counties, Gainesville and back to Monticello, where Equestrian Spirits almost settled a few years back. Many new friends among the lessons and many precious longstanding friends we miss every day we are away.
2017
EQUESTRIAN SPIRITS FOUND OUR FOREVER HOME!
Who knew that in 2014 when Laurie walked into the office of Harriett Downs Realty in Williston, Florida that by the summer of 2017, realtor Marc Pompeo would have us settled into our Perfect Paradise! Thank you Marc, from the deepest part of our souls! Thank you Ellie and the Carl Jensen Memorial Farm Fund for making our move and purchase possible. Thank you Renan for believing in us enough to entrust us with the dream you built of Rejoli Farm. Thank you Mom for never giving up on my dream. Thank you Lynn for all the hours and years dedicated to getting us the farm you believed in; your spirit will forever dwell within... Thank you to the entire Darling family of Triple J Ranch. You have seen me at my best, you have seen me at my worst; never once have you not been there for me and these loving animals. Thank you for all the moves that led to this big and final one. All the cats and dogs and rabbits of Equestrian Spirits were moved on a Friday, with the help of loyal volunteers, Mike, Marla, Dora, John, Mae, Kellie, Polly and De. The very next day 40 horses were moved in a matter of hours - all safely left to graze on lush pastures well into the night. Triple J made the transport of even a few horses who had never shipped, look like a child could do it... where would I be without you, my friends... Kathleen the Packing Queen came to our aide once more. Jennicat, Debbye, Kelley and her very special family stood by us every step of the way. I thank you all for making a miracle possible; by making the dream... come... true
Our Celebration of Life went off well. Many supportive friends joined us while we met several wonderful new neighbors and honored Lynn's memory.
We were blessed by having an amazing Maremma dog come our way. Tonkah will become the perfect guard dog for the herds and flocks once he gets neutered. Most of his training will be done his own way since his breed is born to protect the 'little guys' on the farm. All 115 lbs of him are hug-able and his tail wags just fine!
While one of our friends gave us 4 roosters to begin our flock, another gave us 27 of her hens. Eggs will abound!!!
We had the honor of meeting our new farrier, JR Hall. JR had been in charge of Levy County Animal Services for ten years before retiring to train horses & donkeys, build fences and structures and trim our feet!
A lone pig meandered into our Far Field to join the horse herd. Once we discovered his origin, arrangements were made for him to remain with us. Although he truly appreciated the care his mom was giving him, he just adored the horses and was glad to stay. He is our very first porcine!
Thank you Thea for getting us this far. Thank you Flipcause for never calling me crazy while I asked such novice questions about bringing a website to life. Thanks to my 'proof readers' but especially to Tom for the hours spent caring about us through such daunting challenges.
Began as a very difficult year while we 'clean up' from an outsider's devastation. We rejoice in our freedom once more to move forward and find our way back to the peace and safety of our haven.
One of our mares will turn 36 this year; 2 volunteers will turn 69, Laurie's mom turned 94 and our flock of whistling ducks are already returning for the season! A doe goat we took care of for a friend is due to kid any day and a dear friend hopes to move up this way before summer's end!
We met wonderful new medical friends! Drs. Cliff Zucco & Amy Leider, DVMs befriended us in the parking lot of one of our favorite restaurants in Dunnellon, Florida. They are currently relocating to our areas from Kentucky, so soon the horses will have other mobile vets to call upon! We also lucked out when a very gifted chiropractor, Raquel, came to our farm by mistake looking for a neighbor! After some chat to meet each other properly, she came back and treated several horses. They were happy and we are impressed. We hope to have her back soon!
2020
2 longtime friends made arrangements several years ago to send their animals to us if and when their lives changed in such a way as to need a different lifestyle. Ironically, 2020 brought changes to each of their lives so their animals joined us in making our home, theirs. 2 adorable Shetland ponies and an incredibly handsome Thoroughbred stallion settled in to make new friends at our sanctuary.
A wonderful man who participated in a live-in apprenticeship in 2017 returned to us in January to volunteer and "spend the rest of my life" at the farm! Bruce Patterson is a recorded musician and songwriter, retired semi-pro football player, real estate banker, a dad and granddad who now calls Amik Run his home. The animals adore him and his whimsical ways, while he feeds every animal on the farm and we all benefit from his guitar serenades!
We met Debbie of 'Debbie's Dog Grooming' when a volunteer brought our 115lb Maremma dog in for a shampoo and rinse! What a lovely job and very nice people. Tonkah will be back to visit his new friends as his intense coat requires!
2 of our co-founders were asked by the CHI institute to join them in filming a PBS special; we can't wait to see how it comes out! Meeting Richard was such a pleasure, what a charismatic man; he is a wealth of knowledge and has made a new addition to his already amazing products. We are so honored to be a part of their 'Tribe"!
Our eldest cat turned 20! Her vet said he knows 20yr old people who aren't in as good shape! Mild cataracts beginning but otherwise, even after surviving a stroke 6 years ago, she was in perfect health; purred and cuddled with her doctor!
A turtle, goldfish and a pleco were added to our family when they outgrew their previous haven! Moma B Turtle moved into a pond to meet her previously single boyfriend. If they were to wed we may be blessed with little ones! Dhoe, Rhea and Mhee (ducks) adored her addition to their world of water while they all awaited the return of the whistlers.
2019
3 of our horses turned 34!
Tragedy struck our lives when trespassers attacked our farm for five months, cutting fences, stabbing and maiming 14 horses, killing one, permanently crippling 3. 28 wounds, 3 vet clinics, 5 veterinarians, lots of police but the demented perpetrators were never apprehended. We will never forget the fear but as survivors, we step on, one foot in front of the other, in the hopes each day will be brighter and each heart will heal in the best way we can...
Our haven was graced with the presence of over 100 wild Whistling Ducks! What a joyous sound they make, and what a gentle bird. We hope they stay for a while, maybe to migrate back to us yearly?
We put together a new paddock, specially made with elder horses in mind. How to have full view of the farm, grass, shade, be carefully watched over from the house, yet privacy to enjoy their days as they wish.
Our co-founder, De, finally got her Boxer service dog and what an amazing girl she is! Thank you Triple J Ranch for another super addition to our family!
2018
Setting up our new farm , as expected, has been a challenge but oh, what a JOY! We love the weather, property, neighbors.
We had another Celebration of Life to Honor Lynn Peck and her role in our hearts and lives. Friends shared stories about Lynn with their animals or her role in their own well-being. Although 4 hateful people and some of their friends saw fit to destroy most of her life's work, Lynn's spirit will remain here with the farm she helped procure and where she had intended to reside to teach and be with the horses she loved so much.
Laurie continued with her teaching travels to the Panhandle, St. Augustine, Manatee and Sarasota Counties, Gainesville and back to Monticello, where Equestrian Spirits almost settled a few years back. Many new friends among the lessons and many precious longstanding friends we miss every day we are away.
2017
EQUESTRIAN SPIRITS FOUND OUR FOREVER HOME!
Who knew that in 2014 when Laurie walked into the office of Harriett Downs Realty in Williston, Florida that by the summer of 2017, realtor Marc Pompeo would have us settled into our Perfect Paradise! Thank you Marc, from the deepest part of our souls! Thank you Ellie and the Carl Jensen Memorial Farm Fund for making our move and purchase possible. Thank you Renan for believing in us enough to entrust us with the dream you built of Rejoli Farm. Thank you Mom for never giving up on my dream. Thank you Lynn for all the hours and years dedicated to getting us the farm you believed in; your spirit will forever dwell within... Thank you to the entire Darling family of Triple J Ranch. You have seen me at my best, you have seen me at my worst; never once have you not been there for me and these loving animals. Thank you for all the moves that led to this big and final one. All the cats and dogs and rabbits of Equestrian Spirits were moved on a Friday, with the help of loyal volunteers, Mike, Marla, Dora, John, Mae, Kellie, Polly and De. The very next day 40 horses were moved in a matter of hours - all safely left to graze on lush pastures well into the night. Triple J made the transport of even a few horses who had never shipped, look like a child could do it... where would I be without you, my friends... Kathleen the Packing Queen came to our aide once more. Jennicat, Debbye, Kelley and her very special family stood by us every step of the way. I thank you all for making a miracle possible; by making the dream... come... true
Our Celebration of Life went off well. Many supportive friends joined us while we met several wonderful new neighbors and honored Lynn's memory.
We were blessed by having an amazing Maremma dog come our way. Tonkah will become the perfect guard dog for the herds and flocks once he gets neutered. Most of his training will be done his own way since his breed is born to protect the 'little guys' on the farm. All 115 lbs of him are hug-able and his tail wags just fine!
While one of our friends gave us 4 roosters to begin our flock, another gave us 27 of her hens. Eggs will abound!!!
We had the honor of meeting our new farrier, JR Hall. JR had been in charge of Levy County Animal Services for ten years before retiring to train horses & donkeys, build fences and structures and trim our feet!
A lone pig meandered into our Far Field to join the horse herd. Once we discovered his origin, arrangements were made for him to remain with us. Although he truly appreciated the care his mom was giving him, he just adored the horses and was glad to stay. He is our very first porcine!
2010s
2016
A horse who has been with us for 26 years turned 38! We celebrated the birthday of 4 horses who turned 31. All have been with us over 16 years: one, all 31 years, another 29, and another 25 years. One of our mares made it to age 32. One mare is now 30; still sound and ride-able. She has been with us since she was 4. Our eldest rescue cat is now 17 and has been with us for 16 years. We saved 2 pregnant kittens and 12 babies. A new mule and rescue dog have come to stay.
- Accepted as a member in the Williston Chamber of Commerce; Williston, Florida
- Accepted as a member in the Williston Chamber of Commerce; Williston, Florida
2015
One of our FEI geldings celebrated his 32nd birthday. He was with us 14 years.
Two of our dogs reached their 12th birthdays; both with us for 11 years.
We mew the lovely ladies of Store-It-Storage in Williston, Florida; they will help to keep our supplies safe.
2 wonderful elder rescue dogs came into our lives from a no-kill who had harbored them for 3 years as 'un-adoptable'.
Two of our dogs reached their 12th birthdays; both with us for 11 years.
We mew the lovely ladies of Store-It-Storage in Williston, Florida; they will help to keep our supplies safe.
2 wonderful elder rescue dogs came into our lives from a no-kill who had harbored them for 3 years as 'un-adoptable'.
2014
- The Champion Amateur Owner Hunter, Goodnight, was donated to find a new career.
We saved a family of 18 neglected animals.
Once more Equestrian Spirits was asked to assist Lynn Peck, DVM with her research projects. It has been quite an honor for over a decade to play our role in helping animals find relief through new modalities, therapies and treatments.
We saved a family of 18 neglected animals.
Once more Equestrian Spirits was asked to assist Lynn Peck, DVM with her research projects. It has been quite an honor for over a decade to play our role in helping animals find relief through new modalities, therapies and treatments.
2013
3 wild quail moved themselves into our coop to join the chickens and ducks who reside within! They decided homemade food and no predators were a fabulous idea! They go out each day with the other fowl and are the first ones in to make sure we know they are here to stay!
We rescued 4 more rabbits this year. All were spayed and neutered so they can live together easily. Super bunnies, every one!
A friend brought us 2 "thug ducks", as she called them. They lived with us for nearly a year while she designed a proper living space for them at her own farm. Although the term 'thug' was said with a grin, none of us had ever seen 2 Pekings spar like they did - they obviously loved each other but were the most 'rough-n-tumble' ducks we'd ever seen, hence their need for special quarters!
2012
3 wild quail moved themselves into our coop to join the chickens and ducks who reside within! They decided homemade food and no predators were a fabulous idea! They go out each day with the other fowl and are the first ones in to make sure we know they are here to stay!
We rescued 4 more rabbits this year. All were spayed and neutered so they can live together easily. Super bunnies, every one!
A friend brought us 2 "thug ducks", as she called them. They lived with us for nearly a year while she designed a proper living space for them at her own farm. Although the term 'thug' was said with a grin, none of us had ever seen 2 Pekings spar like they did - they obviously loved each other but were the most 'rough-n-tumble' ducks we'd ever seen, hence their need for special quarters!
2012
One of our mares reached her 32nd birthday. One of our geldings reached his 33rd birthday; he met us in 1997.
We moved to Anthony, Florida and although the farms were not quite large enough, and not in the best repair, we made the best of it and had a lot of fun meeting some great people as well as the very best Tractor Supply Store in the state on North 441 in Ocala - they feel like family! We are also closer to our kind friends at Southern States and met Danny Barrow, one of the nicest 'hay men' we've ever known. Tammy continues to be our number one helper but Mike and some diligent working students graced us with their good ethics and hard work trying to make semi-useful stables and fencing adequate for our animals. The cats especially, miss Tammy's Tree-house but we are on our quest for a Forever Home so we must keep moving...
- Formed 6 member auxiliary board; this non voting board is for research and advisory.
We moved to Anthony, Florida and although the farms were not quite large enough, and not in the best repair, we made the best of it and had a lot of fun meeting some great people as well as the very best Tractor Supply Store in the state on North 441 in Ocala - they feel like family! We are also closer to our kind friends at Southern States and met Danny Barrow, one of the nicest 'hay men' we've ever known. Tammy continues to be our number one helper but Mike and some diligent working students graced us with their good ethics and hard work trying to make semi-useful stables and fencing adequate for our animals. The cats especially, miss Tammy's Tree-house but we are on our quest for a Forever Home so we must keep moving...
- Formed 6 member auxiliary board; this non voting board is for research and advisory.
2011
We were lucky to meet TAMMY! What an awesome addition to our Equestrian Spirits family. She can (and will) do just about anything. She can feed and care for every animal we harbor, mow the fields, build or repair fences and be in a great mood as well!! We helped her save some kittens while she saved a raccoon and rabbits. She was also granted a co-ownership in an handsome orphan gelding who loved her at first sight.
We moved to Summerfield and were thrilled to be back near-by our very special vet, Dr. Gerry Wessner. Unfortunately Summerfield did not work out as we had hoped so our travels led us back into Ocala. What a pretty area of Florida...
While the horse went to Ocala, the small animals and I went to live with Tammy. The dogs and birds and rabbits were all very happy, safe and well cared for but the cats have it made. Tammy's son had built a tree-house that was never used much and certainly not appreciated like the cats did. They have a huge tree running up the center, an upstairs with lighting, fans, space heater and plenty of room for bedding, a shelf for bird-watching, space for dry and wet foods FAR AWAY from bugs and dirt, while downstairs litter boxes, toys and the bulk of the tree allowed for perfect exercise and comfort with a great place for us to linger on our visits.
2010
We were lucky to meet TAMMY! What an awesome addition to our Equestrian Spirits family. She can (and will) do just about anything. She can feed and care for every animal we harbor, mow the fields, build or repair fences and be in a great mood as well!! We helped her save some kittens while she saved a raccoon and rabbits. She was also granted a co-ownership in an handsome orphan gelding who loved her at first sight.
We moved to Summerfield and were thrilled to be back near-by our very special vet, Dr. Gerry Wessner. Unfortunately Summerfield did not work out as we had hoped so our travels led us back into Ocala. What a pretty area of Florida...
While the horse went to Ocala, the small animals and I went to live with Tammy. The dogs and birds and rabbits were all very happy, safe and well cared for but the cats have it made. Tammy's son had built a tree-house that was never used much and certainly not appreciated like the cats did. They have a huge tree running up the center, an upstairs with lighting, fans, space heater and plenty of room for bedding, a shelf for bird-watching, space for dry and wet foods FAR AWAY from bugs and dirt, while downstairs litter boxes, toys and the bulk of the tree allowed for perfect exercise and comfort with a great place for us to linger on our visits.
2010
- Formalized officers; became 501(c)(3) non-profit public charity.
- By 2010 we had cared for over 80 of our own horses with close to 80% becoming champions in the show ring; dozens making it into their 30s, still sound. Several hundred more came in as training, performance or sale horses many of whom we guided into impressive careers; including: Insilco Dressage Award, qualifying for American Quarter Horse World, Friends of Sound Horses National Show, Arabian Regional Finals, 4-H State, United States Pony Club Rally among others.
- Over 60 cats have been in our care. More than a third lived past age 16.
Of the 50 dogs who moved in, 18 were coy-dogs (coyote crosses). Forty-two pet mice and a snake (who did not eat those mice) spent their entire lives with us. Thirty-seven fish, 14 birds, 12 chickens, 8 ducks, 6 goats, 4 sheep, 2 emu, 2 roosters, 2 donkeys, 2 mules and a llama helped us on our way to beginning the non-profit.
- By 2010 we had cared for over 80 of our own horses with close to 80% becoming champions in the show ring; dozens making it into their 30s, still sound. Several hundred more came in as training, performance or sale horses many of whom we guided into impressive careers; including: Insilco Dressage Award, qualifying for American Quarter Horse World, Friends of Sound Horses National Show, Arabian Regional Finals, 4-H State, United States Pony Club Rally among others.
- Over 60 cats have been in our care. More than a third lived past age 16.
Of the 50 dogs who moved in, 18 were coy-dogs (coyote crosses). Forty-two pet mice and a snake (who did not eat those mice) spent their entire lives with us. Thirty-seven fish, 14 birds, 12 chickens, 8 ducks, 6 goats, 4 sheep, 2 emu, 2 roosters, 2 donkeys, 2 mules and a llama helped us on our way to beginning the non-profit.
2000s
2009
- Lynn S. Peck, DVM, MS, clCAK, co-founder Gainesville, Florida accepted the position of Veterinary Advisor.
- Laurie L. Wolf, DeLania Lockliear and Polly McMillan established the groundwork for the non-profit animal sanctuary, Equestrian Spirits, Inc.
Dave Cozzette of Cozzette Accounting in Sarasota, Florida became our treasured accountant. We are well on our way to 501(c)(3) status!
- Laurie L. Wolf, DeLania Lockliear and Polly McMillan established the groundwork for the non-profit animal sanctuary, Equestrian Spirits, Inc.
Dave Cozzette of Cozzette Accounting in Sarasota, Florida became our treasured accountant. We are well on our way to 501(c)(3) status!
2008
- Laurie L. Wolf is one of four people who wrote the first Gaited Dressage Rule Book (FOSH) and got the Florida Gaited Cracker Horse to be a recognized breed with FOSH.
- The Paladin herd was formed.
- The Paladin herd was formed.
2007
- Olympian Imtiaz Anees, his students and horses, returned to us once more for the winter Event season, gracing us with their kindness towards us, each other, and their horses! .
- Sunshine Advocates for Sound Horses (SASH) was founded by Laurie L. Wolf.
- Animal Bowen Clinics hosted with Lynn S. Peck, DVM, MS, clCAK and Carol Bennett
- Sunshine Advocates for Sound Horses (SASH) was founded by Laurie L. Wolf.
- Animal Bowen Clinics hosted with Lynn S. Peck, DVM, MS, clCAK and Carol Bennett
2006
- Olympian Imtiaz Anees, as well as his students and horses, were housed for the winter Event season. They were a pleasure to have!
More working student joined our staff, coming from local areas, other states, as well as abroad.
Our show circuits expanded once again with wonderful support, lots of fun and new friends!
2005
- Olympian Imtiaz Anees, as well as his students and horses, were housed for the winter Event season. They were a pleasure to have!
More working student joined our staff, coming from local areas, other states, as well as abroad.
Our show circuits expanded once again with wonderful support, lots of fun and new friends!
2005
- We hosted the Independent Judges Seminar (IJA) for Friends of Sound Horses (FOSH).
- With Lynn S. Peck, DVM, we hosted the Animal Bowen Clinic, which was founded by Carol Bennett.
- With Lynn S. Peck, DVM, we hosted the Animal Bowen Clinic, which was founded by Carol Bennett.
2004
- We hosted West-Fest celebration featuring cowboy poets and country bands including Waddie Mitchell, Sisters of the Silver Sage, Gary McMahan, Scott O'Malley and others.
- We hosted a Connemara riding tour of Ireland under Willie Leahy.
- Dressage, Jumper, Gaited, Open, Combined Training and Trail Trials in-house show circuits began. Each ran for five years until stable closed.
- As part of our organization, we created and funded the following education programs:
Galloping Green Thumbs - gardening group dedicated to producing organic plants and herbs in a home environment.
- We hosted a Connemara riding tour of Ireland under Willie Leahy.
- Dressage, Jumper, Gaited, Open, Combined Training and Trail Trials in-house show circuits began. Each ran for five years until stable closed.
- As part of our organization, we created and funded the following education programs:
Galloping Green Thumbs - gardening group dedicated to producing organic plants and herbs in a home environment.
- Saddle Singers - group participation to enjoy sharing many different styles of music with horses.
- Six-Legged Theatre - a theatre group dedicated to performing short skits with music and horses.
- Music School - learning techniques of Kur, combining music with riding.
- Healthy Horse - an educational course for natural health remedies.
- Holistic Seminar - a week-long holistic course by Gerald Wessner, DVM.
2003
- Equestrian Spirits 4-H - founded ES horse club.
- We fully funded Paint 'n Ride Summer Camp for local teens; 27 children attend at no charge.
- We were granted the New Business Award with the Williston Chamber of Commerce.
Gerald Wessner, DVM taught a week long course on homeopathy and natural medical modalities. What a great turn-out! Gerry is an outstanding teacher and had another vet as well as a human MD in his class alongside horse trainers, stable managers and curious horse lovers.
- We started our own trap and re-home or release feral cat program.
- Mentor herd was formed.
- International working student programs were initiated.
- Certification programs instated.
- We fully funded Paint 'n Ride Summer Camp for local teens; 27 children attend at no charge.
- We were granted the New Business Award with the Williston Chamber of Commerce.
Gerald Wessner, DVM taught a week long course on homeopathy and natural medical modalities. What a great turn-out! Gerry is an outstanding teacher and had another vet as well as a human MD in his class alongside horse trainers, stable managers and curious horse lovers.
- We started our own trap and re-home or release feral cat program.
- Mentor herd was formed.
- International working student programs were initiated.
- Certification programs instated.
2000
- Amik Run, 189-acre farm with lovely pastures, indoor arena, and plenty of riding space, become our home. Purchased by Jim and Elaine Mitchell and their Goddaughter Laurie Wolf, through Wendell Mills of Glen Miller Realty.
1990s
1998
- Junior Olympic Invitational was founded and hosted JOI for teens.
1996
- Dressage and Hunter Champion mare Cimmeron Fancy, who was personally trained by Laurie L. Wolf, participated in the International Paralympic Games in Atlanta, Georgia, where she earned three ribbons for her rider Sharon Konneman of the Australian Paralympic Team.
1990
- Judging Apprenticeship program began.
- Course and Test Design program began.
- Course and Test Design program began.
1980s
1986
- Horsemanship and HorseMasters courses was instated.
1981
- We founded Centaur Farm, 30-acre farm to begin to create rehabilitation program for our "Centaurs."
My farrier and Assistant Trainer/Instructor co-founded Centaur Farm with me. Many students and assistants showed in recognized breed and/or performance shows throughout Florida.
My farrier and Assistant Trainer/Instructor co-founded Centaur Farm with me. Many students and assistants showed in recognized breed and/or performance shows throughout Florida.
- Centaur herd was formed. Centaur herd often share their lives with loyal volunteers or are being conditioned to possibly embark on a new career after being rehabilitated to a level of personal comfort. The honesty, bravery, perseverance and heart of these saddened animals continuously touch all who aspire to return them to a life they deserve. W.E. Henley’s Invictus has become our “Creed of the Centaurs” as it describes the amazing constitution of these survivors!
CREED OF THE CENTAURS
Invictus - W.E. Henley (1849-1902 Gloucester, England)
Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.
In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeoning of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.
Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.
It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishment the scroll.
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.
Invictus - W.E. Henley (1849-1902 Gloucester, England)
Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.
In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeoning of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.
Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.
It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishment the scroll.
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.
1980
- We Founded HorseMasters 4-H.
1970s
1979
- CFA (Centaur Farm Alternative) Dressage, Jumper, Model, Performance, and Prix Caprilli tests, written by Laurie Wolf, for schooling shows as well as leadline, walk, in-hand, gaited, driven, and others as formats for advancement of novice horses and/or riders towards USDF competitions, began.
- Walk Trot Test II was given to Col. Jack Kimball. He later offered it to USDF when they introduced their Walk/Trot Intro Tests into recognized shows making it one of the fist two USDF Intro Tests.
- Walk Trot Test II was given to Col. Jack Kimball. He later offered it to USDF when they introduced their Walk/Trot Intro Tests into recognized shows making it one of the fist two USDF Intro Tests.
1976
- Working student program was initiated.
- We established Brighton Farms and Hurry-Up Farm Hunter Show Circuits; both ran many years in Southern Maryland.
- We established/judged Competitive Trail Rides in Southern Maryland and Florida.
We established training protocol for judges of Competitive Trail Rides, Trail Classes and alternative schooling competitions.
- We established Brighton Farms and Hurry-Up Farm Hunter Show Circuits; both ran many years in Southern Maryland.
- We established/judged Competitive Trail Rides in Southern Maryland and Florida.
We established training protocol for judges of Competitive Trail Rides, Trail Classes and alternative schooling competitions.
1971
Our second horse - the lame, hostile, and vindictive Thoroughbred, Shady Ed came into my life. He became a 4-H mount Competitive Trail horse, lesson horse and a happy friend.
1970
Our second horse - the lame, hostile, and vindictive Thoroughbred, Shady Ed came into my life. He became a 4-H mount Competitive Trail horse, lesson horse and a happy friend.
1970
- We had our first horse - Amik. Emaciated and terrified, he became a well-fed and loving Show Jumping Champion.
1960s
1968
A dream of a horse, 17 turtles, 5 dogs, 4 cats, 3 fish, 2 mice, 1 rabbit, 1 bird, a frog and a hamster started it all...