Horses celebrated at Saturday exhibition

By RALPH ANSAMI

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Ironwood - On a dreary Saturday morning, a 4-H spring and horse exposition drew a good crowd to the Gogebic County Fairgrounds.

The fair exhibition building was filled with crafts display tables and pony rides were offered for the kids.

Therapy with horses, equine massage, trick training and a vaulting demonstration were some of the events that were offered.

The expo was free and vendors could sign up tables for only $10.

The concession stand and bake sale help support the local Saddle Up 4-H Club.

There were saddles and horse-related items of all kinds offered for sale.

In one section of the fair building, 4-Hers painted chairs and tables that will be auctioned off at this summer's Gogebic County Fair.

The 4-H painting project was initiated by Ashley Hampston Dennis, the Michigan State University Gogebic County Extension 4-H program coordinator who helped organize Saturday's event.

The 4-H youngsters can use their imaginations in painting the tables and chairs, using whatever color and design scheme they may choose, said Angela Gallo, of Ironwood. Her son, Peter Gallo, was one of the young painters.

At one booth, Gary Kusz, of the Superior Range Shooters Club, was offering information on the first meeting of Super Range 4-H Shooting Club hat will be held on June 13 at 5 p.m.

The 4-H'ers use the shooting range on Black River Road, near Copper Peak, to learn safety training tips from club members before sharpening their shooting skills.

Kusz said youngsters from 4 to 19 learn how to safely use firearms, from air rifles on up to hunting rifles. Youngsters need not be involved in 4-H to participate in the events at the shooting club.

"At the end of the year we have a party for the kids," he said.

Call Kusz at 906-285-0475 for more information.