The Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Breed Association is pleased to announce that thirty-six new LED light features for the Dale Esther Arena have arrived! The next step is installation, and we are on track to have them in place in time for the World Show and Celebration.

This project has been a true community effort. This was a true team effort with special thanks going to Region 7 Director Matt Bova, Region 6 Director Brian Land, Maintenance Manager Johnny Burkdoll, Toby Sheppard from the Ava Public Works Department of Electric–Utility Line Services, and the lighting engineers from LED Lighting Supply for their expertise and assistance in making this project a reality.

We also extend our sincere thanks to Justin Gilmore, Superintendent of the Gainesville R-5 School District, for graciously turning on the district’s softball and baseball field lights so our team could view similar fixtures before making a purchase decision.

Most importantly, our biggest thanks go to the MFTHBA members who stepped up to support this project. Your generosity made it possible to quickly move forward, and your commitment to improving our showgrounds benefits every exhibitor, spectator, and visitor.

Light Pole Sponsors

Southeast Pole

• Kingdom Krafters

Middle South Pole

• Alford Stables

Southwest Pole

• Matt and Andrea Bova
• Bob and Colleen Wilson
• Alan and Lisa King
• Ronnie and Glenda Davis
• Shawn and Amy Stangl
• Alexis Zastoupil
• Amber Wilson

Northwest Pole

• In memory of Jerry Jackson

Middle North Pole

• Brad and Ellen Matlock
• Lee and Patricia Hackler
• Larry and Jennette Robbins
• Gary and Mary Kiefer
• Gary and Jane Matlock
• Louie and Linda Keener
• Larry and Micki Keener
• Gail Freed

Northeast Pole

• Bruce and Tamara Jo Summerhill
• Richard and Laura Del-Rio, in memory of Mickey Fournier
• MFTHBA Trail Committee

Thank you to everyone who contributed—whether through time, expertise, or financial support. These new lights will make a lasting difference, ensuring our evening events shine as brightly as the incredible horses that enter the ring.