I just returned from my second visit to this horse farm; not your ordinary horse farm in central Florida, but rather the home of the elite Gypsy Vanner horses. There aren't enough positive words for me to say about these rare horses and their owner Dennis Thompson. The horses are uniquely beautiful and very friendly. "Professor" Dennis' lecture is captivating, informative and humorous (perhaps not literally a "Professor," but EXTREMELY knowledgeable after decades of traveling the world related to his love of animals). His tour around the farm was absolutely fascinating.
In addition to informing his visitors of the history of his farm, he also shared his vision of the type of broad educational facility he envisions for the acreage on which his farm is located. Of course, his dream needs investment funding in order to be realized. A large corporation like Coca Cola or Pepsi, or perhaps the wine industry, would be foolish not to invest in an endeavor such as the one Dennis envisions. After all, aren't the Clydesdales connected to Budweiser? In addition to educational activities, I can envision families with children roaming these beautiful grounds in the daylight hours with their sodas and hot dogs; and by night, their parents and/or grandparents sipping wine and snacking on cheese under a moonlit sky surrounded by these magnificent equine creatures in a paradise-like setting.
The drive to Ocala from my home is a bit of a trek but I can't wait to return to this inspirational setting again sometime in the not-too-distant future. Good luck to you, Dennis, and may some wise investment firm help you to soon realize your very worthwhile goals.
Eileen Dykeman
Melbourne, FL