Pubdate: Thu, 16 Mar 2006 Source: Marshall News Messenger, The (TX) Copyright: 2006 Cox Texas Newspapers, L.P. Contact: http://www.marshallnewsmessenger.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3870 Author: Sandra Cason, News Messenger| Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/dare.htm (D.A.R.E.) D.A.R.E. OPEN HORSE SHOW SET SATURDAY The eighth annual Harrison County D.A.R.E. Open Horse Show kicks off between 8 and 9 a.m. Saturday at Triple Creek Ranch in Hallsville. D.A.R.E. Officer Ray Palmer said participants are expected from "three or four states." Youth and adults alike will have an opportunity to compete for prizes in everything from a stick-horse race to English and Western Pleasure riding. "The show will go on rain or shine," he said, adding there is a covered arena at the ranch on Farm-to-Market Road 450, south of Interstate Highway 20. "It's our biggest fund-raiser of the year," Palmer said of the day-long event. Contestants will be evaluated by a certified panel of judges and will be awarded points which may be accrued for future competition. In addition, several saddles will be given to the high-point individuals. A silent auction is set for "about sixish," Palmer said. "We have any number of items, ranging from sweat shirts to framed photos to lamps, meals and oil changes," he added. And it's not too late to contribute. "If anyone would like to make a last-minute donation to the auction, they can bring it with them that day, or if they'll call, we'll come pick it up." Activities culminate at 7 p.m. with an awards ceremony and a barbecue, the latter served to participants and workers. Palmer said funds made available through the horse show, a golf tournament and the Harrison County United Way have led to the expansion of the Drug Abuse Resistance Education program from elementary schools through junior high. "They've come out with a new curriculum," he said. The program of 17 weeks has been extended to 20, with 10 taught at the elementary level and 10 at junior high. "These fund-raisers help buy workbooks and materials the kids are given," Palmer said. For more information on the horse show, contact Palmer at telephone 903-930-0868 or call 903-930-8889. Donations may be mailed to Harrison County D.A.R.E., P. O. Box 568, Marshall, 75671-0568. - --- MAP posted-by: Richard Lake