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Hilltop Ranch and Tack
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2007 Equine Honoree - Janelle Stelk
The Nebraska Horse Council would like to recognize Janelle Stelk as our 2007 Horseperson of the Year. Janelle started as a horse crazed toddler, acquiring her first horse at age 4. Her "unhorsey" parents purchased a 2 yr old for her. Janelle prevailed and as a young teenager started colts for money even pursuing her passion as a work study during high school. She continued her occupation through young adulthood and then as a side for many years. Currently, she is back full time starting colts and riders as well, specializing in a Beginner Horsemanship Courses she designed.
Janelle and her husband, Dennis, own and operate The Hilltop Mini Ranch located at 260 W Hwy 34, Phillips. The Mini Ranch is "home" to the Pony Express 4-H club formed in 1978, the Transitions Vaulting Team formed in 1997 and Nebraska Equine Assisted Therapy (NEAT).
The Pony Express 4H club helps youth learn about horses through many hands on experiences, sponsoring horseshows, judging clinics and lessons. It has seen many accomplishments of youth riders past and present. currently, the club has over 15 members. The club attended the 2006 nebraska Horse Expo where they had a booth helping others learn about horses.
Vaulting is gymnastics on horseback. Team members perform exercises atop the moving horse choreographed to music. Under the coaching guidance of Janelle, the team has performed for various functions throughout the state such as county fairs and several past Nebraska Horse Expos.
NEAT is a Therapeutic horseback riding program for individuals with special needs. The program's goal is to provide a unique blend of social, physical and emotional development through horseback riding. Janelle is a registered Instructor with NARHA - North American Riding for the Handicapped Association.
Janelle and her husband, Dennis, show and raise appaloosa horses. Janelle has served as board member and president for the Nebraska Appaloosa horse club (NAC) Janelle was also a member of the board for the State 4H Council. The Equine division of our state 4H program. Janelle has received her Ruby award for 30 yrs as a 4H leader. She currently is Secretary of the Nebraska Dressage Association (NDA) and also a judge for the Nebraska Horse Club Association (NHCA).
Janelle's passion for horses began early in life. This love has only grown bigger
with her continued involvement in the industry. Janelle's primary emphasis
in the equine world has been to promote safety and care for both the horse
and rider. Janelle is admired most for her love, versatility and involvement
in the Nebraska horse world. For this, we say Thank You and CONTRATULATIONS!