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Rescued from the brink: On Demand’s journey to a life of dignity

In Columns, Columns - Greenville, The Greenville Pioneer
September 15, 2023
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By Susan Kayne

For Capital Region Independent Media

The Thoroughbred mare On Demand recovering after her days in the kill pen. Contributed photo

In the heart of the Thoroughbred world, where legends are born, a remarkable story unfolded – one of resilience, compassion, and the unyielding spirit of a Thoroughbred mare named On Demand.

Her journey, spanning from her extraordinary birthplace at Mt. Brilliant Farm to her eventual rescue, highlights the importance of protecting and honoring the lives of senior Thoroughbred mares long after their racing days.

On a picturesque Kentucky morning, in the legendary Mt. Brilliant Farm, the world welcomed On Demand into existence.

She was born in the shadow of greatness, on the very same grounds that had once been home to the legendary Man O’ War, one of the greatest racehorses of all time. Her pedigree was steeped in history, as she was a daughter of the world-renowned stallion, Giants Causeway.

From her earliest days, On Demand was destined for greatness, a living testament to the legacy of Mt. Brilliant Farm and the promise of the Thoroughbred racing world.

On Demand pictured with her 2017 filly at Sagamore Farm in Maryland. Contributed photo

A STAR IS BORN

As a yearling, On Demand graced the grounds of the Keeneland Sales Ring. Bidders and onlookers could hardly contain their excitement as they beheld this magnificent filly.

With her lineage and prowess, she became the center of attention, eventually commanding a price of $500,000. The man who recognized her potential and acquired her was none other than Richard Santulli, the founder of NetJets.

Her journey had just begun, and her future looked bright. Racing enthusiasts envisioned her as a future champion, a name that would resonate throughout the racing world.

ON THE RACETRACK

On Demand carried Santulli’s silks to victory in two memorable races, showcasing her speed and determination.

Her victories endeared her to racing fans, and her future as a broodmare seemed even more promising.

 LIFE BEYOND THE TRACK

After her racing career, On Demand transitioned to a new role – that of a broodmare.

Sold again through Keeneland and pregnant for the first time, she fetched a final bid of $310,000. Her destination was equally as iconic as her birthplace – Sagamore Farm in Maryland, owned by Kevin Plank, the founder of Under Armour.

Here, she was expected to produce the next generation of champions, continuing the legacy of her lineage.

FROM GRACE TO NEGLECT

Life for Thoroughbred mares can be unpredictable, and On Demand’s story took an unexpected turn.

On Demand receiving hoof care and recovering while in quarantine. Contributed photo

After her racing and breeding days were behind her, she found herself in a situation no horse should endure – abandoned and neglected in the slaughter pipeline. How she ended up in North Carolina, tagged and sorted for slaughter, remains a mystery, but her plight was far from isolated.

On Demand’s situation echoed the struggles faced by countless senior Thoroughbred mares who, after giving their all to the racing and breeding industry, find themselves discarded, unwanted, and vulnerable. Their stories often remain untold, and their fate uncertain.

UNBRIDLE’S RESCUE

In the darkest hour of On Demand’s life, a ray of hope emerged when the community that supports Unbridled rallied together to save her from shipping to a slaughterhouse in Mexico.

Abandoned and alone in the kill pen in North Carolina, On Demand’s identity was confirmed by a tattoo on the underside of her lip. Contributed photo

As the news of On Demand’s plight spread, an unexpected hero stepped forward — Greg Goodman, the owner of Mt. Brilliant Farm and the breeder of On Demand. With immediate action, he contributed to the rescue and rehabilitation of On Demand, setting an example for the industry.  

RESILIENCE AND HOPE

On Demand’s journey from the grandeur of Mt. Brilliant Farm to the depths of neglect in North Carolina serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by senior Thoroughbred mares. Her rescue is a testament to the power of compassion, advocacy, and collective action in safeguarding the well-being of these magnificent animals.

As we celebrate On Demand’s triumphant rescue, let her story inspire us to be proactive in protecting and respecting Thoroughbred mares throughout their lifetime, from their days on the racetrack and as a broodmare to a dignified retirement. It is a commitment owed to the equine athletes who have given their all in service to the dreams of others.

They deserve nothing less than our unwavering protection, respect and support.

Susan Kayne operates the horse rescue organization Unbridled Thoroughbred Foundation, on the border of Albany County and Greenville.

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Approaching memory concerns this holiday season

In Columns, Columns - Greenville, The Greenville Pioneer
December 17, 2021
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By Marisa Korytko

For Capital Region Independent Media

Last year, the pandemic caused many families to adjust holiday gatherings due to public health concerns. As we return to more in-person celebrations this year, cognitive or memory changes in an elderly loved one may be both alarming and cause deep concerns.

Visiting aging loved ones after being apart for so long might lead to the realization of some changes in behaviors, physical health, and new experiences of memory loss or cognitive decline. When families begin noticing these changes there can be a variety of responses and moments of uncertainty. Families often do not know where to turn or what to do in these moments.

As our loved ones age, we often attribute memory loss to a normal part of aging when some behaviors or issues of cognitive decline could potentially be a sign of something more severe.

“Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging. It is a progressive disease where symptoms gradually worsen over time,” said Beth Smith-Boivin, executive director for the Northeastern New York Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.

With Alzheimer’s being the fifth leading cause of death for adults who are 65 and older, Smith-Boivin wants to remind families of the following 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease:

  • Memory changes that disrupt daily life, such as forgetting important events;
  • Challenges in planning or solving problems, such as keeping track of monthly bills;
  • Difficulty completing familiar tasks, such as driving to routine places;
  • Confusion with time or place, such as the date;
  • Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships, such as reading;
  • New problems with words in speaking or writing, such as inappropriate words;
  • Misplacing things and being unable to retrace steps, such as putting ice cream in the medicine cabinet;
  • Decreased or poor judgment, such as giving large sums of money to telemarketers;
  • Withdrawal from work or social activities, such as forgetting how to finish a favorite hobby; and,
  • Changes in mood and personality, such as becoming angry or fearful.

“The holidays revolve around traditions, things we’ve done for a long time, so if you are seeing a change in someone completing a familiar task, it’s important to have a conversation with their health care providers,” Smith-Boivin said. “Ignoring signs of cognitive impairment out of fear or denial can lead to greater heartache in the future and the possible worsening of the situation.”

According to Smith-Boivin, The Alzheimer’s Association sees the number of calls to its 24-hour helpline (800-272-3900) increase during and after the holidays when people visiting with friends and family whom they haven’t seen in a while become aware that something is not right.

The Association’s Helpline is an ideal place to find answers and resources for additional assistance.

“Helpline calls often lead to local referrals to our Chapter for additional resources, such as free education programs and personalized family care consultations,” Smith-Boivin said.

The 24-hour helpline can also provide help for caregivers, such as a listing of programs that offer care and socialization services. All calls to 800-272-3900 are free and confidential.

Marisa Korytko is the public relations director for the Alzheimer’s Association Northeastern New York chapter. She can be reached at mekorytko@alz.org.

Obituary: Ralph L. Filkins

In Obituaries, Obituaries - Greenville, The Greenville Pioneer
January 9, 2022
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Ralph L. Filkins

WESTERLO – Ralph Lloyd Filkins, 82, passed away on Saturday, Christmas morning, Dec. 25, 2021 at the Daughters of Sarah Nursing Home. He had enjoyed a visit from his family the day before.

Ralph was born at home in Rensselaerville on March 22, 1939, a son of the late Lloyd and Grace Kuhn Filkins. He was a graduate of Greenville Central School, and Hudson Valley Community College with an Associates degree in Criminal Justice. 

Ralph began his working career with the Town of Rensselaerville Highway Department, moved up to Albany County Highway, and then to the Thruway Authority, all while attending college part-time. Following graduation, he joined the Capitol Police, then on to the New York State Park Police, where he was one of the first original park police officers for that program. He was based at the John Boyd Thacher State Park, and retired as a Sergeant 20 years ago.

At age 15, he joined the Rensselaerville Volunteer Fire Company and rose to Assistant Chief. Several years later, he moved to Westerlo, built a home, and joined the Westerlo Volunteer Fire Company, Inc., where he holds 60-year life membership, and serves as a Past President. Through ENCON, he served as a Hunter Safety Instructor, and through the NYS Park Program, he served as a Snowmobile Safety Instructor. In 2011, he was a founding member of the NYS Park Police PBA and was a member and Past President of the Westerlo-Basic Valley Fish & Game Club. He greatly enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Ralph is survived by his wife of 49 years, Rosemary Duncan Filkins; three children, Donald (Debra) Filkins, Terri (Brian) Buchardt, and Robert Tanner; six grandchildren, Samantha, Nicole, and Jessie Filkins, Renee Buchardt, Brendin (Amanda) Tanner, and Emileigh Tanner; one great-grandchild, Harper Tanner; his siblings, Judson (late Sandy) Filkins, Barbara (Robert) Joslin, and Richard (Betty) Filkins; many nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents, Ralph was predeceased by a sister, Marian Duffy; and a nephew, David Filkins.

In keeping with Ralph’s wishes, he has been cremated. Memorial calling hours were Monday, Jan. 3, 2022, from 5-7 p.m. at A.J. Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 State Route 81, Greenville. Officers and members of Westerlo Volunteer Fire Company conducted a service at 7 p.m., followed by a Service of Celebration of Ralph’s life at 7:15 p.m., led by Pastor Christine Allen. 

Burial of Ralph’s ashes, with Firematic Honors, were conducted on Tuesday, Jan. 4, at 10 a.m. in Rensselaerville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Building Fund of Westerlo Volunteer Fire Company, Inc., P.O. Box 87, Westerlo, NY 12193, will be appreciated. Condolence page is available at ajcunninghamfh.com.

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