Fundraising’s latest craze takes horseplay to a whole new level. The idea behind the Marion County Literacy Council’s 3rd Annual Kiss the Horse for Literacy campaign holds 12 candidates competing to raise “kisses” in the form of money — each dollar equals one kiss — in order for win the grand privilege of smooching the horse Tulle El Jamaal. Whoever raises the most kisses wins! This year, the candidates can gain extra points for selling tickets, added to the total points; the winner will kiss the horse at the event.
The daring dozen are: Thiroshan Chetty of Golden Ocala, David DeSantis of Greiner’s Clothing, Kelli Hart of Lilli’s Flowers & Gifts, Mary Ellen Poe of Hospice of Marion County, Howard Epstein of USA Scientific, Cindy Schad of ALTRUSA, Julie Sieg of the Marion County Library, Larry Whittler of WOCA Radio, Kelly Wright of WTRS Radio and Jimena Carrasco of AMWAY. The grand finale will be held on Saturday, Dec. 3, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m at Hennessey Arabian LLC, 12780 NW 35th St., Ocala.

Developed as a family affair for fun and learning, the Marion County Literacy Council will be joined by the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County and the Children’s Alliance with literacy and horse-based activities for the little ones. Also joining the fun are the Marion County Public Library with a book van and craft tables for holiday fare. The entire event will be catered by Mojo Grill & Catering.
The 3rd annual Kiss the Horse for Literacy is so much fun it is sure to become the signature event for the Marion County Literacy Foundation. For more information, contact Karen Hill, executive director of Marion County Literacy Council, at 352-690-READ.






