by Kay Swisher

LITIZ, Pa. - The landscape was covered with about four inches of snow with the temperature hovering around 20 degrees, but in The Stables at Alpha Place in Litiz, Pa., the warmth of hospitality kept the crowd of horse folks cozy and comfortable. The Adcock family rolled out the red carpet for the folks attending the Alpha Place 2009 Preview. The festivities began at 10 a.m., with morning treats of warm beverages and snacks and a beautiful seating area in the inside arena for their guests.

Scott Adcock began the duties of master of ceremonies, introducing The Stables at Alpha Place 2009 show string. Trainer Sam McLaughlin thrilled the crowd with Mason Dixon, Dark Watch and I'm Glorified. An American Outlaw, owned by Ron and Jan Wagaman of Waynesboro, Pa., was also presented. Owner Jan Wagaman then took to the irons to ride An American Outlaw for Wagaman’s first time and her first time in 15 years to ride a padded horse. She made an outstanding exhibition and proved the team will be tough combination for the 2009 season.

Next came The Ultimate Hawk and Beams On Parole. Soon it was noon and the folks were ready to feast on a delicious pig roast and all the trimmings. The hungry crowd enjoyed good food and fellowship sitting at the tables decorated in The Alpha Place Stable colors of black and gold.

Soon after lunch Jose Dot Com made an always outstanding performance, followed by Oopsie Daisy and I'm Spartacus. The popular More Of The Dollar will step out of the four-year-old division and compete in the age classes for 2009, and the multi-winning show pleasure horse The Ferrari was presented. The pride of the Adcock family, the versatile fine harness, show pleasure and amateur horse A Rebel Without A Cause will continue with the family for another season. The seven-year-old fine harness horse and amateur horse Gonna Be A Rockstar and Storm Pusher Cash made a grand entrance. Dumas Is My Papa, owned by Greg and Maggie Strasbaugh, will be showing under the Alpha Place banner with McLaughlin as the trainer.

Hosts Bob and Debbie Adcock were very gracious and made each and every guest welcomed and ensured they had a relaxing good time.