By CHARLES BOOTHEFranklin News-Post
As the temperature soared above 90 degrees on Monday, riders, parents, staff and guests at Healing Strides of Virginia in Boones Mill could find relief from the hot sun under a new roof.
A covered equine arena was recently completed, and officials were on hand for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, held in shade the large facility provides.
"This (the arena) is a godsend," said Lynda Gray, president of the board of directors of Healing Strides, a non-profit organization that provides therapeutic programs using horses. "Without this, we would be stifled this time of year."
Services at Healing Strides include therapeutic riding lessons, equine assisted psychotherapy and equine assisted learning, all for both children and adults.
The organization was started in 1991 and moved to its new location on Naff Road in 2002.
Michelle Holling-Brooks, Healing Strides program director, pointed to the large fans on the ceiling that provided a constant breeze to help cool the riders and horses.