Celebrating the Holidays: Equestrian Committee Hosts Festive Potluck

The Rotunda was filled with warmth and cheer as over 30 equestrian enthusiasts came together for the first annual Equestrian Committee Holiday Potluck. This festive gathering was attended by five Committee members, Equestrian Manager Lisa Everett, and equestrian enthusiasts, and the event brought the community closer during the holiday season, offering a delightful array of dishes, from appetizers, main dishes, sides, and desserts, including my favorite, the Sweet Potato Crème Brûlée.

This potluck wasn't just about food—it was a celebration of the year's accomplishments and the shared passion for equestrian life. Committee Chair Missi Stone welcomed everyone, expressing gratitude for the community's support. She began by talking about the past, "We worked very hard over the last five months since forming in July, and I think we've done a lot of good so far, with three successful events in less than four months. Your support for the community and the equestrian facilities has been incredible." Then she ended with a look at the future, "I'd like to see more community and relationship building with other interest groups within the association. The more we foster these connections, the stronger we'll be as an amenity. Our goodwill as an equestrian community will be key to the success of the equestrian centers in the year ahead."

The evening also featured heartfelt reflections from other committee members. Committee Secretary and Vice President of the Board Vanessa Jerrell highlighted the group's progress and encouraged broader involvement. "I was on the original committee last year, and it's very refreshing that we've got the equestrian committee with some different goals that are more productive, that are more community-focused. And I appreciate that and the team that we've pulled together. I also wear a separate hat as Vice President of the Board of Directors, so I'm in a unique position to support the equestrian community," she said. In addition, she clarified the focus by saying, "If you know people with horses in the association, please help get them involved as well because this isn't just about the boarders. It's about everybody as a community."

Committee member Jeff James emphasized the importance of collective participation, adding, "Everybody, we're better as a community, and we need to stick together. That means coming to meetings, sharing your ideas, and telling us what you need." And, Committee Vice-Chair Terri Law-Terry, who has been part of the committee for several years, shared a vision for the future: "My vision is for people to come together, have fun, and truly enjoy this community, built on great ideas and the joy of being with each other and our horses."

As the evening wrapped up with laughter, camaraderie, and even a raffle, the spirit of the season was evident in every interaction. Looking ahead to 2025, the Equestrian Committee is excited to build on this sense of community with plans to enhance facilities, host more events, and continue fostering connections that strengthen the equestrian lifestyle.

This potluck wasn't just a holiday celebration—it was a testament to the community spirit that makes our equestrian life so vibrant and promising for the year ahead.

Photos by Heather McGhee