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*News Release*

              Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station and Miniature Horses

Race to Improve Child Literacy at Westlake Village Library

Miniature horses, Valor and Belle, were the hit of the party when they debuted the very first ‘Giddy-Up and Read!’ child literacy promotion event at the Westlake Village Library!  The event was held Wednesday afternoon, February 18, 2015. 

Valor and Belle made their appearance in front of over 100 children between the ages of 3 and 12 years, who were excited to read more about them and their special Miniature traits…which is exactly the reason for their attendance.  Valor and Belle are two of five Miniature horses from Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses brought to the event, designed to encourage children to learn more through reading by spurring their interest in these special horses.   Owner/trainer, Victoria Netanel,showcased Valor and Belle inside the library, and everyone who attended got the opportunity to meet the horses, pet them and have a picture taken with them. 

The kids heard about the unique Miniature horse breed during storytelling time, as Lieutenant Jennifer Seetoo and Deputy Michael Churney read books and answered questions.   The children were also invited to enjoy an area specially created for independent reading.

As first stepping stones to children not yet acquainted with the library, a tour was given with instruction for easier navigation of its many resources.  This introduction was intended to make libraries seem less daunting and encourage many comfortable future visits.

The Miniature horses from Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses, a nonprofit organization dedicated to visiting and assisting a range of people in need, are trained to work with law enforcement communities, hospitals, hospice programs, outreach programs, and those who have experienced traumatic events.  The ‘Giddy-Up and Read!’ event showcased how Valor and Belle’s presence can quietly provide encouragement, inspiration and joy.  They are two of five horses recently affiliated with the Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station’s Volunteer program who respond to various locations and bring happiness on four legs. 

“The ‘Giddy-Up and Read!’ program assists law enforcement in bridging the gap between school aged children and our deputies.  It’s our way of showing the kids, and their parents, that we believe a strong partnership between law enforcement, schools, businesses, city governments and the citizens is the best way to solve problems, and to keep the community safe,” said Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station Captain Pat Davoren of the event.

For event information, please contact Malibu/Lost Hills Station Lieutenant Jennifer Seetoo at 818-878-1808.

Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff's Station polices the Cities of Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village, and the unincorporated communities of Chatsworth Lake Manor, Malibu Lake, Topanga, and West Hills.

Written by:

Lieutenant Jennifer Seetoo - Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff's Station

Deputy Lillian Peck – Sheriff’s Information Bureau

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department

Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station

27050 Agoura Road,

Calabasas CA 90302

818-878-1808

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