MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – This Thursday, students at Reddick-Collier Elementary School in Marion County will be the first to receive the “Horse Capital Equine Industry Coloring Book,” courtesy of the Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership’s Equine Initiative presented by Pyranha Animal Health.
The coloring book, written and designed by Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses co-founder and Education Director Debbie Garcia-Bengochea, is part of a Memorandum of Understanding between the CEP Equine Initiative and Marion County Public Schools “designed to introduce Pre-K through second-grade students to the many educational and career opportunities available within Marion County’s internationally recognized equine industry.”
“Nearly 20,000 Horse Capital Equine Industry Coloring Books will be distributed to Pre-K through second-grade students at Marion County public elementary schools during the first weeks of the school year,” read a CEP announcement. “Students will be invited to participate in a countywide coloring competition, with selected entries receiving gift card prizes.”
Miniature therapy horse Moonshadow, who graces the cover of the coloring book, will help deliver the first shipment of books to Reddick-Collier, at 4595 W. County Road 316 in Reddick, this Thursday, August 20, 2026. The kickoff at 8:30 a.m. will also feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
“We want children to see that the equine industry offers exciting opportunities for every interest and talent,” said Louisa Barton, Director of the CEP Equine Initiative, in a statement. “Whether they dream of working directly with horses or using skills in science, business, technology, communications or the arts, this coloring book helps introduce those possibilities while encouraging creativity, literacy and community pride.”
“This partnership creates an engaging learning experience while helping students discover
the many opportunities available right here in our community,” added Dr. Donald Manning, Reddick-Collier’s principal.