Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/207831
Sarasota News Leader November 8, 2013 Page 80 SHERIFF'S OFFICE SAYS GOODBYE TO A 'SPECIAL' MEMBER The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office said goodbye on Nov. 1 to Special, a Mounted Patrol horse that was retiring after 17 years of service. Special was donated to the agency in 1996, a news release points out. At the time, the 5-year-old Thoroughbred was a retired racehorse. "Special stood out immediately for her unique spirit," the release continues. "She has worked every major event including the Sarasota County Fair, spring breaks on the beaches and mall details during the holiday season." She has also worked the Super Bowl in Tampa and college football games. Her last large event was the Republican National Convention in Tampa in 2012, the release notes. Until last year, she was the first mount for every new rider because of her tolerance and her abilities as a law enforcement horse, the release adds. Seven years ago, Special was diagnosed with Lymphangitis, a condition that caused her left rear leg to swell, the release says. "Although she was able to work and her health was monitored closely, it was recently decided that it was best for her to retire. Special/Contributed photo Special will live out her years at Mill Creek Retirement Home for Horses in Alachua County (http://millcreekfarm.org/)," the release continues. The farm's "beautiful pastures are exactly what Special needs for her condition," the release adds. "She will be missed by everyone in the Mounted Patrol Unit." SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE RAISES $20,000 FOR GRADUATING SENIORS The Venice Area Board of Realtors has announced that its Scholarship Committee has raised $20,220.00 for 2014 local graduating high school seniors. more than $260,000 since it started the program more than 20 years ago. A bonus this year will be a matching donation from state Sen. Nancy Detert (R-Venice) of up to $20,000, the release adds. The senator The committee was chaired by Tony Moore, made the announcement at the board's recent a news release notes. The board has raised membership meeting.