Out & About: STAT Summerfest highlights healing power of horses

There’s one kind of horsepower that will make your engine run. There’s another kind that can assist in various kinds of healing, personal empowerment and therapy.

It was that second kind of power highlighted at the fourth annual Summerfest on Aug. 3 at STAT Ligonier Therapeutic Center in Cook Township.

The center provides equine therapy for a wide range of clients, including people with special needs and PTSD, at-risk youths, those in addiction recovery and many others.

The theme of the daylong fundraising event was “Healing With Horse Power.” Attendees had the opportunity not only to meet with but also to ride some of the therapy horses.

All-day live music came courtesy of Sweet Judy, Acoustic Bruce, Gary Pratt and The Bricks. For burgers, barbecue and more, there was the Fat Boys food truck.

For the younger set, there was a petting zoo, a balloon artist, kiddie games and prizes. For the older set, there was a climbing wall, $1-a-minute massages and an outdoor bar tended by veteran broadcaster and five-time Sports Emmy-winner Debra Honkus.

Pittsburgh Penguins mascot Iceburgh even stopped by for a photo op session.

As far as event proceeds, center founder Catherine Markosky said, “We’re trying to focus on scholarships right now. There are a lot of people who want to come here, but they can’t afford it.”

Seen: Allison Vasinski, Mike Gofkowski, Victor Gofkowski, Glenda Pochciol, Malaki Craig, Nancy Hoover, Tyler Platt and Valorey Auen-Platt, Mya Auen, Mailynn Platt, Ken Kuo and AnnaMarie Bobnar-Kuo, Jake and Melissa Wolfe with kids Carter and Sophia Wolfe, Laura Chartier with kids Brooks, Sloane and Crosby Chartier and Rob and Nancy Palko.