Cong. Jo Ann Emerson Visits Fox Trotters Wednesday Afternoon

U.S. Representative Jo Ann Emerson listens to a concern of Dale Lawson, of Ava, at the MFTHBA Hall of Fame room Wednesday afternoon. Lawson represents the Douglas County Fox Trotters. At right in the photo is professional rider and trainer Geno Middleton.

Missouri’s 8th District U.S. Representative Jo Ann Emerson, of Cape Girardeau, made a stop in Ava Wednesday afternoon and visited with folks at the Show and Celebration of the Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Breed Association.
Staff Assistant Heather Peugh, director of Emerson’s West Plains office, said Mrs. Emerson came to Ava on Wednesday because she would be unable to attend the ceremony on Saturday when Highway 5 from Ava to Mansfield will be officially dedicated as Missouri Fox Trotting Highway.
Fox Trotters are not foreign to Mrs. Emerson. In fact, a few years ago she came to Ava in blue jeans and boots and rode a couple of Fox Trotters in the show arena.
“The horse owners, enthusiasts and staff who participate in the Missouri Fox Trotting Association keep this wonderful  and magnificent breed alive for the rest of the world,” she said in a statement Wednesday.
“These horses are remarkable, and they are a part of our history and heritage in Missouri. I am so glad that the great efforts of so many Missourians have accomplished a greater recognition and respect for the horses.”
The Missouri Fox Trotter was named the official state horse of Missouri in 2002.