When the Chips are Down, the Horse Community Rallies
Longtime Zone 2 and APHC stall manager Paul Cook receives support from far and wide, a befitting response to his welcoming presence.
By Delores Kuhlwein
Every affiliate, regional, or local club has one, or at least, the lucky ones do. The staff member who goes above and beyond, the smiling, friendly face who is always there when needed – whether it’s an emergency, or when all is smooth sailing.
In fact, we often take those reliable, “always-there” folks for granted, as we’re so used to their unwavering presence.
In the case of Paul Cook, stall manager and jack of all trades for the APHA Zone 2 show and Arizona Paint Horse Club shows, however, his community recently rallied around him when he was hurt in a vehicle accident in Arizona.
Paul is known not only for his unfailing presence as stall manager, helper, and sometimes as Mr. Fix It, but also for his kindness and hospitality, especially to newcomers and new members at shows.
So when news broke in early May that Paul had been in a serious rollover accident and was hospitalized, everyone in the Arizona Paint Horse Club and all APHA Zone 2 clubs were in shock. Then, once they were assured he would recover, they jumped into action.
Zone 2 officers and show staff took charge, securing another familiar face to manage stalls at the upcoming Zone 2 Show at South Point in Las Vegas, and establishing a strong line of communication with Paul’s wife, Sharon, to assure updates.
Arizona Paint Horse Club’s Board of Directors and APHC Club President Mindy Erskine organized a silent auction for the upcoming Zone 2 Show to help with Paul’s medical and surgery expenses. “When I heard about Paul’s accident, we all wanted to help, so we presented the idea to the family. Paul has always been there for us over the 20 years that I have known him, so it was our opportunity to give back to him,” explains Mindy.
The auction went online on Facebook, and in person at the APHA Zone 2 Show, and over 75 items were donated. The items ranged from stallion breedings to artwork to restaurant gift certificates at South Point Hotel & Casino and so much more. Paul’s impact has been so significant, horse community members from far and wide donated; South Point Security contributed, too.
When it was over on May 24th, a total of $9400 was raised. Paul was at an uncharacteristic loss for words when he heard the news, and he and his family are extremely grateful for all the kindness and support from the horse community.
“We are thankful he is home recovering and look forward to seeing him at our future shows,” Mindy says.
