Horse Tales
by Candice C. Dunnigan
The association is basically a grassroots organization that focuses on preserving the mounted horse police patrol, by connecting pro-horse advocates as a means of support, and enhancing the safety and awareness of the unit and its many functions in southeastern Michigan.

The Wayne County Sheriff's Office Mounted Unit consists of 12 accredited officers and their reliable and well trained equine partners. Besides public protection, the officers and horses help spread the positive aspects of officers and steeds by appearing in benefits, events, and at schools. The force was established in 1978.

Sheriff Warren C. Evans has been with the force for the past 29 years, beginning when he was a lieutenant. The horses and officers present a friendly and positive aspect wherever they happen to be. Besides being around for the annual local parades (where they appear in equine formation and uniform), they're found in Hines Park on safety patrol. Many times this unit has been called in for crowd control, especially at major events in Wayne County. The unit was on hand for the International Auto Show, the MLB All-Star Game, the World Series, and Super Bowl Xl, to name a few. With budget crunches and woes affecting our entire state, the Motor City Horse Force and the Restore the Horse Foundation have been assisting the Wayne County unit and equines, and are committed to ensure their future.

The Motor City Horse Force is a 501C3 tax exempt organization. The stables are located in Livonia, at Hines Drive, Newburgh Road. They even offer scheduled barn tours. One of the force's sayings is, "Support a Horse for a Better Community." The Web site can be found at www.motorcityhorseforce. org.

Applause to Bob Raisch for his inspiration and his commitment. Better yet, if you happen to see a tall, military-looking man walking a lanky Greyhound dog around the Annex this summer, why not ask him about the Horse Force yourself. I'm sure he will be more than happy to oblige you with an answer.

Candice Dunnigan is an active member of the American Equestrian Association, the Waterloo Hunt, and the Mackinac Horsemen's Association. Seasonally she resides at Easterly Cottage.