Published December 20. 2021 11:25AM
The Friends of the Bethlehem Mounted Police hosted a “holiday with the horses” open house Dec. 12 at the Quadrant Financial Wealth Stable, and announced the addition of a new patrol horse.
Photo opportunities with special guest Einstein the Snow Camel, pony rides, free hot cocoa and warmed apple cider, carolers from Freedom HS and Northeast MS, and mounted patrol merchandise available in the facility gift shop offered family entertainment and an opportunity to purchase special gifts.
The big announcement of the day came with the introduction of five-year-old Mason, a 50 percent Percheron and 50 percent Belgian horse who joins Asa, Casper, George, Grey and Pharaoh in the unit. Mason was donated by Larry Heinrich and a multi-year sponsorship by Karen and James McIntyre was announced.
Mason has been in training since August under the guidance of Danielle Lewis and Earl Finney, and will partner with officer Mark Kuntzman.
Press photos by Dana Grubb Freedom HS carolers under the direction of Jennifer Volpato greet visitors to the event with a selection of holiday music. More photoson page A3.
Brynlee Roth of Bethlehem pets Asa as officer Albert Strydesky watches. Asa was joined by Casper, George, Grey, Pharaoh and newest member of the unit Mason.
Holiday with the horses was the first time that Easton resident Rebecca Torkington visited the mounted patrol stables. She was dwarfed when posing with Einstein the ‘Snow Camel.'
Officers on their mounts mingle with the public.
Prior to being formally introduced as the newest addition to the mounted unit, Mason meets with fans inside the stable. Adele Averill, manager at the Quakertown Veterinary Clinic, relished the one on one opportunity.
Michael Trunzo from Bethlehem tells Santa and Mrs. Claus that he had been good and requests a football, baseball for the pool, a baseball bat and baseball glove.
Under the direction of Denise Parker, carolers from Northeast MS sing many popular songs of the season.
PRESS PHOTOS BY DANA GRUBB Larry Heinrich donated Mason, the newest addition to the mounted patrol, and received a proclamation for his contribution.
Karen and James McIntyre was recognized for sponsoring Mason.
