Winslow's Horsemen's Ball huge success

Organizers expect event will have raised more than $100,000 WARWICK - Guests agreed that Event Chair Desiree Shaughnessy and the hard-working members of her committee deserve high praise for the success of Winslow Therapeutic Center’s “Horsemen’s Ball, a Venetian Masquerade,” held on Saturday evening, Oct. 14. As promised, the center’s healing-with-horses indoor riding facility on Route 17A in Warwick was indeed transformed into a “Venetian Paradise.” As of this writing the total proceeds have yet to be calculated. “But,” reported Executive Director Christine Tawpash, “the event was a huge success thanks to the committee and staff. And so far we know that we’ve already exceeded our goal of $100,000.” The open bar, full course dinner, festive “Venetian Masque” atmosphere, music and dancing were all major attractions. But the real reason people came and reached deep into their pockets for the silent and live auctions may have had more to do with some of the Center’s accomplishments that were demonstrated that same evening. For example they witnessed first hand a Hippotherapy demonstration as a gentle horse was paraded past the tables with its gleeful rider Siobhan Nordland, 2, who has been diagnosed with Rett Syndrome. They listened to Jaimie Hoppe, who has autism, perform a beautiful and meaningful rendition of “The Wind Beneath My Wings.” And they heard a poem, written and read by Gina Cariello from her wheelchair to honor her favorite horse, Dot.Com. She described the horse, who happens to be blind in one eye, as special in many ways. Cariello wrote, “I’ve grown to love her - and appreciate her being - just like all at Winslow - whose praises I sing.” One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of this year’s “Winslow Award,” to Louis Marquet of Leyland Development Corp., LLC. Marquet is also a member of Winslow’s Board of Directors. “This award,” said Executive Director Christine Tawpash, “honors an individual or organization whose value an concern for human life serves as an inspiration to others.” Tawpash praised Marquet as a talented “we’ll get it done” volunteer who has an ability to motivate others with his enthusiasm and patience. For more information about Winslow Therapeutic Center visit www.winslow.org.