The gorgeous black Dutch Friesian horse, Valk, was a real crowd pleaser at Middletown Days parade last Saturday. Owned by Upper Lake resident Kenn McCarty of Dutch Drafts Equine Services, and driven by wife, Susan McCarty, Valk pulled a vis-á-vis carriage in which occupants sit face-to-face.

We were thrilled to be passengers in the carriage, along with Hidden Valley Lake residents Jennifer Popovich and her 4-year-old daughter, Anna.

Enthusiasts can again see Valk in action in Clearlake July 5 when the Dutch Friesian performs with the Sons of Norway in the Lakeshore Lions Club's 51st annual Redbud Parade at 11 a.m.

Thanks also to Middletown Day parade marchers Bill Barrows, Victoria Brandon, Teddy Duke, Wanda Harris, Shirley Howland, Connie Miller and Joan Worster. Brenda Pappan of Middletown Florist helped with our decorative balloons.

We appreciate you all!

Lyle and Susanne La Faver live in Hidden Valley Lake.

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