Lou Savarese lends a glove at Winslow's ‘Horse Fun Show'

WARWICK - Lou Savarese, a native of Greenwood Lake, has had an impressive career including defeating Buster Mathis Jr. to capture the North American Boxing Federation Heavyweight title. Last year he announced his retirement from boxing after loosing a close 10-round decision, against former World heavyweight champ Evander Holyfield. That decision to retire from the ring may give Savarese, who now lives in Warwick with his wife, Louisa and their sons Luca, 6 and Ciro, 7, more time to devote to his real estate developer and acting careers. On Sunday, March 30, Savarese was on hand to autograph photographs and help out at the second annual “Horse Fun Show” at Winslow Therapeutic Center. Winslow Therapeutic Center, located on 100 acres just off Route 17A between Bellvale and Greenwood Lake, conducts an award-winning therapy program to help children and adults with special needs develop self-esteem and physical confidence through horseback riding. Although some modest funds are raised, the “Horse Fun Show” is designed primarily as an opportunity for the children to show off their progress and demonstrate what they have learned for their parents. The riders also participated in games and fun events including a version of “musical chairs” played on horseback. Those who contributed both financially and with services to the success of this year’s event included the entire Winslow staff, volunteers and the “Horse and Rider” tack shop of Middletown. Mama’s Boy, Frank’s Pizza and Ashley’s donated pizza for lunch. “Every child wins a ribbon,” said the show’s organizer Cathe Struble. “The show is for all our riders.” According to Leo Kaytes, president of Winslow’s Board of Directors, Winslow has been offering unique and often life-changing horseback riding experiences to children and adults in this community since 1974. “We use the movement of the horse to heal body, mind and spirit,” he said. “Riding a trained horse who instinctively knows he carries a special passenger, lets trust and friendship begin.” Winslow’s literature explains that physically, the movement of the horse stretches and strengthens muscles, improves balance and coordination, and encourages learning. About 250 people, children and adults, enjoy this highly successful form of therapy at Winslow each week. Frequent fund raisers, private donations, volunteer service and Federal and State grants help offset costs and provide funding for need based scholarships. A horse and carriage program for special needs people who are unable to ride horseback is also available. For information about Winslow Therapeutic Center call 986-6686.