Wednesday, December 06, 2006

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The Right Man For Barbaro
(Commentary by Carole Shaw, Wednesday, December 6, 2006)
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Whenever it comes to speaking his mind, Alex Brown is a man of few words but his spoken words make everyone know exactly where he stands. As Barbaro's Honorary Ambassador, his webmastering skills for Tim Woolley Racing are simply amazing. He is considered the lifeline to Barbaro supporters creating critical awareness for saving our horses from an inhumane practice of slaughtering here in the United States, Canada, and Great Britain.
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Recently, he was featured on television in York County, Pennsylvania discussing the horse abuse in America with WGAL-TV NEWS 8's Susan Shapiro. The last segment with with Lost and Found Horse Rescue Foundation Inc. owned by Tracey and Kelly Young (husband - wife team) will be discussed below. See excellent WGAL-TV VIDEO (courtesy of Lorri Shaver, Barbaro's PA Ambassador--thanks, Lorri). Parts of the news coverage shows New Holland, PA in Lancaster County where Kelly goes weekly to the auction and feedlots areas to buy and prevent good, healthy horses from being bought by killer buyers who arrange for these horses to go to the three remaining foreign-owned horse slaughter plants in the United States.
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On a special note, Alex was given exclusive visiting rights to see and spend time with Barbaro (Bobby) at the request of Mr. and Mrs. Roy and Gretchen Jackson last week. He even posted a replacement sign on the New Bolton Center's Gate. This sign with "Grow Hoof Grow" was originally sent by Jean, Barbaro's fan. He hinted that it could use a bit of company. So people let's get some fresh weatherproofed and more durable signs for Barbaro on that gate, huh? How about it friends and fans of Barbaro?
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Update Tuesday December 5th:
Barbaro continues to enjoy Mom Gretchen's special times and Lael grass she brings from it from home in her blue tote and called Alex with news he behaves admirably , was laying down when she arrived and stirred immediately to munch on his favorite freshly cut grass --hmm just like home (loving the green green grass of home).
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Update Wednesday, December 6, 2006
Excerpt from Alex: (News, TIM WOOLLEY RACING)
Update 1138: Just a quick note of thanks. The $500 gift included in my birthday present has manifested into four new tires for my truck. As I was waiting for the tires to be replaced I made a couple of calls. Sabina is continuing her recovery, and seems to be progressing well. She did mention some work she had done, so she is on some kind of light work schedule at this point. I also called Peter for the first time since they left for Florida. It seems they have all settled in well and the horses are now in their new winter "digs" at Palm Meadows. He told me it was raining, I noted the clear blue sky we had up here ...
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Alex's ambassadorship extends to even forwarding special Thank Yous at Tim Woolley Racing to the Jackson family. Here is one Barbaro fans love: (please note, there will be more forthcoming in future weekly update).
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From Allessandra (Sandra, Canada)
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Dear Mrs. Jackson,
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"I want to express my gratitude for sharing Barbaro with all of us. Your willingness to permit private information to be shared with Fans of Barbaro has been so kind and generous for all who adore horses!! My father nicknamed me "Horse" as I was a sprinter/athlete who loved movement and the joy it gave me. Riding horses was my passion.
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I particularly wanted to commend you for the special time you have spent with your horse, whether bringing hand-picked grass or spending time, sitting talking to your Barbaro. Although there are many people providing excellent care, your constant presence, and voice have been familiar and loving. Barbaro has suffered trauma, both physical and psychological. You have been attending both with holy water and your special counselling skills. Barbaro knows he is loved and those soul to soul exchanges between you have been important theraputic, spiritual, encouraging, affirmative exchanges.
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As a caring, skilled caretaker/therapist you are to be applauded for your diligence, dedication, and devotion.
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Please give my warmest regards to Mr. Jackson. He also brings humor, strength, leadership, and funds to take care of your magnificent champion, Barbaro. How proud you must be to have been to see your silks in the Kentucky Derby, with Barbaro and Showing Up duelling with each other, and being called as first and second in the stretch!!!!
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Please accept my heartfelt thanks and prayers for being an exemplary Christian couple who have brought light and love to many people. You are a role model of a family that takes care of one another.
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Merry Christmas to the Jackson family, especially our hero Barbaro, a horse for all ages.
Yours faithfully,
Sandra (Canada)
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Graciously, Alex has agreed to keep posting those Saturday/Sunday evening prayer vigils between 7 - 9 pm (eastern standard time). Take a few moments to keep him in your thoughts and prayers; Bobby still has a long recovery ahead as his condition is now guarded but stable. His spirits continue to be good according to Sunday's latest report and he gets daily visits from Mom with specially-cut Lael grass.
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Prayerful Thank You with Barbaro's love and all Teams Barbaro and Ambassadors for continuing to update us with reports on our hero and keeping that lifeline with the Jackson family alive. Every time we read on Tim Woolley Racing Barbaro has another restful night and good day with visits from his family and you - we all have a better day. "If Barbaro can continue to Get Well, than so can I" and "If Barbaro can do it, so can I," are two mantras people in physical/emotional pain embrace to get them through tough moments. We believe in miracles! We believe in Barbaro! We believe in Mike Rea! We believe in Fans of Barbaro! These go hand in hand with:
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Live Simply
Love Generously
Care Deeply
Speak Kindly
Leave the Rest to God!
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And, Bobby's latest x-rays taken November 28th show his right hind leg is healing well. Still must wear splints and bandages but his leg also continues to strengthen with daily walks of up ot 45 minutes. He is going to be fitted for a special shoe on his left hind foot that has the 95% hoof resection. He walks surprisingly good as assessed by Dr. Dean Richardson.
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Today, is the big announcement day (December 4th) for Sportman of the Year. Barbaro was nominated...stay tuned as there were boucoup votes for Bobby! He has some tough competition as Dr. Richardson was also nominated...Edgar Prado...Bernadini too! As Lorri Shaver says, "Win or not, Barbaro will forever remain for me an inspiration and example of what greatness truly is." Praying Bobby is "Horse of the Year but if not, he is best horse still!
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Update December 6th: Sports Illustrated says that Dwayne Wade, basketball player for the Miami Heat was given the votable honors but to Fans/Friends of Barbaro and his Ambassadors that is debatable.
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Lyn Gilbert of Team Barbaro said, "But from his POV of accomplishments, Barbaro wins hands down - track safety, raising funds for laminitis research, and anti-slaughter - always showing us what patience and determination can accomplish...and the Barbaro Effect. We know who Sportsbeing 2006 is and that is what's important."
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Fan of Barbaro Slew rewrote from anonymous blogger:
"Barbaro, the Jacksons, trainer Michael Matz and Dr. Dean Richardson did more for horse racing than Wade will do for the NBA. This is the most ridiculous choice for Sportsman of the Year. Come on Sports Illustrated, this is the worst choice since Tom Brady. Afleet Alex and his connections should have been last year's choice but you choose a football player because Alex is a horse. Is that why you did not choose Bobby? (Barbaro, Bobby is his nickname)"
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Saving the best one for last, here's Ernie Corvino' s (Team Barbaro) response to Herald's staff writer Alan Bellittera at Herald Today.com:
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Excerpt from Alan Bellittera - Top 5; Barbaro. "I would consider cancelling my subscription if this happened, but this horse can't stay out of the headlines. And the Kentucky Derby winner has made a remarkaable recovery after his Triple Crown bid was dethroned by a broken leg."
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Ernie's RESPONSE LETTER:
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"Dear Mr. Bellittera:
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Barbaro is a legitimate contender. Why say something negative to the effect if this happened, you would cancel your subscription to Sports Illustrated? Secretariat earned this honor many years ago elevating the esteem of this magazine in the eyes of most racing fans. If Barbaro won the title this year, I believe it would not only reflect well on The Sport of Kings but also raise (not lower) respect for Sports Illustrated. With a more positive comment from you, racing fans would also have more respect for Herald Today.com
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Sincerely,
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Ernesta Corvino (Team Barbaro)
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*****
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TEAMS BARBARO & AMBASSADORS donated considerable funds mid-November 2006 to support Lost and Found Rescue Foundation plus Freedom Hills Theraputic Riding Program. Both Charity foundations are an important part of Alex Brown's giving plans. Special thanks goes out to all contributors from Barbaro!! High Five Hooves!!
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As a side note, Alex volunteers weekends to teach riding skills to a young boy named William. He finds it a relaxing and enjoyable experience that makes his day lighter along with the daily good news reports he gets on Barbaro. May he continue keep spreading the good news -- we all appreciate it more than you'll ever know -- Thanks from all Teams Barbaro and fans!!
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Lost & Found: (every week Kelly visits the New Holland, PA horse auction)
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down to the wire!!! needs all the help they can get Lost & Found is a registered charity in PA.
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Crossposting:
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Hello,
I am writing on behalf of the Lost and Found Horse Rescue located in PA.
We have an urgent situation that has come up for a group of horses.
There are approx. 10 THOROUGHBREDS getting ready to be loaded on the truck for slaughter in NY. A group of ladies who help with trying to place horses in need have been working on this for the past 2 days non stop. At the very last minute, we found a place to put the horses until we can determine what needs each horse will have. Some may need to be put down, we are not sure at this point. I am writing to ask for help in the form of donations to help cover their care, vetting and food.
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If you would like to help we have a pay pal account set up on our website at http://www.lfhr.org or our mailing address is:
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Lost and Found Horse Rescue
852 Valley Road
York PA 17403
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All donations are tax deductible.
In addition there are going to be an estimated 20 MORE off track
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THOROUGHBREDS going to the same meat dealers place next week.
We were given the heads up in advance in case we could help these horses.
I just wanted to put this out there as I know many of you are racingfans and care about the horses as much as we do. At this point the funds have been offered to buy the horses but we would need a place and funds to go with the rest of the group next week. If you have any ideas please contact me at (717) 428-9701 ask forKelly or Lisa at 607-334-9988.
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So in summary, there are about 30 horses that need help this week and next that our rescue group is trying to assist. Any donation of any size is very much appreciated, once we have the names of the horses we will post them if there is an interest.
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Thank you and just to show how hard they are working:
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And here's a few more that's been saved over the past 12 weeks!
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1) Makemerich
2) Barelyinourbodgit
3) Fuzzy Abby
4) Fabulously Mine
5) Hey Mister B
6) Ali P. Slick
7) Little Miss Hurry
8) Price to Pay
9) Kim's Baby
10) Sweet Olympio
11) Linden Hall
12) Brummy
13) Navesink Tide
14) Run Judge Run
15) Request A Dream
16) Unflawed
17) Tomo
18) Dineen
19) Lady's Mind
20) Princess Attitude
21) Make the Double
22) Red Point
23) Gallant Search
24) Sassy Lad
25) Soaked
26) Shah of Shahs
27) A 28 y/o mare (by tattoo letter), rest of tattoo is not legible.
And between Nov 6th thru the 10 (last Friday),
another 24. Still haven't received news of just who they all were,
but all of them off the track thoroughbreds, all of them from meat buyers/dealers or directly out of the killpen.
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All of them have been absorbed into a few national Thoroughbred Organizations, and so since there are still many lives to be saved. It's all the more reason we've needed to turn to the public forsupport.
And absolutely without question, every dollar counts! We HAVE been busy!
Thank you for any support!!!
Thru:
Sue Pizzini (Barbaro's Pennsylvania Ambassador)
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In a message dated 11/26/2006 1:48:10 P.M. Eastern Standard Time
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RE: COMMENTS & OPINIONS
Barbaro's Ambassadors of www.campaigningforbarbaro.com are grateful for Alex's talents as a writer and spokeman for making others aware of a growing need to wake up Americans to the real ongoing abuse of our horses. Below is an article written by our New Jersey Ambassador with it appearing in several newspapers. Our folks are encouraged to respond to the comments section. You will see it at TimWoolley Racing under Update 1124 of news.
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: (Click on title, to go to comments & submit yours)

Sunday, December 03, 2006
11/30/2006 10:16:00 AM
Email this articlePrint this articleComment on this article
Letter: Save horses from slaughter (by Sharon Crumb)
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The American Horse Slaughter Protection Act is such a hot issue and so many facts pertaining to it. I would not do it justice here in an email so I would appreciate if you would go to www.hsus.org, www.equineadvocates.com, www.kaufmanzoining.net/horsemeat/ and see a slaughter in progress.
Then I would ask you to email me because I would like to understand why this "Dirty Little Secret," is not being made available to the general public.
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Everyone I talk to has no idea that this is happening to our horses and they become involved to stop it, but I see the tears and I know there are so many more people who are not aware of this. I am also sure that majority of the American public will feel the same once they are aware.
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If the senate does not vote on H.R. 503/S. 1915 during its lame duck session, another 100,000 horses, at least, will die horrific, brutal, senseless deaths.
The only three slaughterhouses in the US are ALL foreign owned and the meat they butcher from our American horses, is shipped overseas to be eaten as sushi, appetizers costing $20 to $40 per pound.
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Worst yet, is the tax returns I have from one slaugherhouse. $12 million dollar income and $5 in taxes to our U.S.

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What is wrong with this? We have our horses being slaughtered in foreign owned slaughterhouses in the U.S., with the meat being shipped overseas, with no profit to America. Not to mention the money that is being spent by USDA to test horses for the perfect meat. That's right, guinea pigs who are put to slaughter after the tests are complete.
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This American Horse Slaughter Protection Act was passed overwhelming in the House of Representatives on Sept. 7, 2006 and yet it still sits in the Commerce Committee waiting to be released to the Senate for a vote.
Every four minutes, a beautiful healthy, young horse is slaughtered for it's meat.
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The transport of equines in trucks designed to transport cattle is also so very inhumane when you have to actually fold that horse in half so he will fit in a compartment.
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Go to www.hsus.org and see the rescue of 40 horses from a slaughterbound truck in Missouri.
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Please visit Grace Foundation of Northern California to see the rescued horses, one being a two month old colt who was on a slaughterbound truck. Also visit Longmeadow Ranch of Missouri to see the 25 out of 42 horses that survived the horrific overturned truck accident.
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Ask yourself, do any of these horses look old or sick?
Are you aware that two slaughterhouses are Belgium owned and horse slaughter for human consumption is illegal in that country?
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That would explain why they like the United States because they can do their dirty work here and to our horses and don't pay for the privilege. None of this horsemeat is used to feed a starving nation, it is just a good way to make a buck to them.
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93 percent of American people polled did not approve of horse slaughter.
We need H.R. 503/S. 1915 to be voted on before the end of this 109th Congress session or the killing will continue to please the foreigners, not our peopleFor those of you who have not, please have the courage to do what is right and that is simply alert the American public to this issue.
Sharon Crumb
Phillipsburg, New Jersey
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Reader Comments (Article above)

Posted: Monday, December 04, 2006 Article comment by: Sharon Prendergast

Thank you for your letter Sharon! While I am proud to be an American, I am so ashamed of this horrific betrayal to our beautiful horses who have serviced man in so many ways throughout history. I will not rest until H.R. 503/S. 1915 is passed!

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Posted: Monday, December 04, 2006 Article comment by: Joyce Moore

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I have been involved in the attempt to end the slaughter of our horses for many years. Year after year we mobilize, make phone calls and send faxes and e-mails to our Representatives and Senators, most of which are simply ignored by our elected officials. At this point I am as disgusted with our legislators as I am with those who slaughter our horses. Poll after poll shows that the vast majority of Americans are against slaughtering horses. What will it take to get our Congress to step up and do the right thing (for a change)?

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It is absurd that this barbaric practice is still being allowed. It is equally absurd for our Senators to claim that there are ‘more important’ issues to address. What is more important than listening to the constituents who voted them into office? While I understand that there are many pressing issues to be dealt with, I need to question why this Congress has accomplished less than any other in recent history. The House overwhelmingly passed H.R. 503. There is absolutely no excuse for the companion bill, S. 1915, to still be sitting in committee after all this time.

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One has to wonder if our processes need to be re-vamped. Congress should be required to vote on the issues before them in a timely manner as opposed to creating delays in an attempt to kill the bill and force the process to begin again when the next Congress convenes. This is especially true when considering that by the time a bill gets to Congress the American people and the House have already spoken. There is absolutely no reason for our horses to be slaughtered. This bill is not about the cattle industry, neither is it an infringement on personal property rights, nor will the passing of the bill create any additional hardship for the horses or the American people, nor will it cause any negative environmental impacts.

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Ending the slaughter of horses will accomplish several key goals. First and foremost, these magnificent animals will no longer have to experience a horrific death at the hands of someone shooting numerous bolts into their bodies, nor will they have to experience being slaughtered while still alive and feeling pain.Second, personal property rights will be protected as horse theft will dramatically decline. Third, horse owners will be forced to accept responsibility for providing a humane death for their horses. Fourth, maybe, just maybe, some faith in our government will be restored.

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The claim that ‘it is too expensive’ to euthanize and dispose of a horse is ridiculous. The cost to do so is equivalent to providing appropriate care for one month which ranges between $150 and $300 dollars. The pro-slaughter faction claims that the 1% of the equine population slaughtered each year will be doomed to starvation and abuse if the bill passes. This foolish claim is not supported by any evidence because the evidence does not exist.

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In reality, the claims received by humane organizations in California showed no increase after California outlawed shipping of horses to slaughter. Further, two different mind sets are involved. One is based on cruelty and ignorance while the other is based on cruelty and money. Abuse and neglect could be minimized if, again, our legislators would act by classifying such behavior as a felony as opposed to a slap on the wrist misdemeanor.

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Time is running out for this Congress to take action. As I write this, many horses are being prodded through narrow gates and are awaiting their turn in the kill box, (assuming they survived the trip to the plant). They are feeling intense terror. The horse in the kill box is now struggling to escape confinement and the stench of blood and death in the air. Here comes the guy with the bolt gun. The first bolt misses and strikes the horse in the neck. The second bolt also misses its target but does force the horse to the floor. The chute opens and the horse falls out of the kill box. Still struggling, the horse is lifted by chains and the slaughter begins. This horse is in incredible, unimaginable pain.

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And all of this is for what? So someone in Belgium or France can sit down to dinner tonight and enjoy the flesh of a horse who gave his best to his owners but was rewarded with terror, pain and an unnecessary death. God bless the horses and may God forgive us for neglecting to end this practice many years ago. Joyce Moore

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Posted: Monday, December 04, 2006 Article comment by: Jane Fieberts

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If Americans didn’t already overwhelmingly disapprove of the slaughter of our horses for foreign consumption, they should be mad as hell about how their wishes are being circumvented by certain senators who are wielding their power in deliberate opposition to the passage of anti-slaughter legislation and, therefore, in opposition to the will of the American voters who put them in office and who pay taxes to support this government.

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Here’s an example of the government run-around, as cited by Conn. Senator Joseph Lieberman: “In 1971, Congress passed the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burro Act (WHFBA; P.L. 92-195) with the intent of preserving wild horses and burros from slaughter and various other abusive practices…In an eleventh hour maneuver, Senator Conrad Burns (R-MT) attached a rider to the 2005 Omnibus Appropriations bill allowing BLM to sell wild horses that are ten years or older for slaughter after three unsuccessful adoption attempts.

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Unfortunately, this provision was added without debate and without going through the normal legislative process. I am disheartened that this action was taken.” This type of underhanded, manipulative wheeling and dealing is responsible at this very moment for the continuing slaughter of our horses in direct violation of the will of the American people.The bill outlawing slaughter already passed the House and should easily have passed the Senate. But one senator can put on a legislative hold that stops a bill in its tracks.

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Right now this bill is being blocked. To add injury to insult, American horses are routinely treated with products that make their meat dangerous for consumption. Most horse owners consider their animals as pets or companions, not livestock like cattle. Practically every horse owner routinely treats their horse with products such as Zimectrin (a de-wormer), Phenylbutazone (the aspirin of the horse world) and fly sprays; these products are clearly labeled "Not For Use On Animals Raised For Food." Meat tainted with these products can cause nasty long-term side effects in human consumers such as cancer, which is why federal regulations forbid they be administered to beef cattle, poultry or hogs.

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Since no such regulations exist against these products being given to horses and there are no safeguards against horse treated with these products ending up in the slaughterhouse, it's likely that tainted horsemeat is being shipped to Europe and Asia as you read this.Pro-slaughter elements will tell the world that doctors are telling their heart patients to eat horsemeat cause it's low in fat. But to what benefit? Is it better to get cancer than to save some fat calories?

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The number of horses slaughtered has increased over the past two years due to increased demand abroad for U.S. horsemeat. The horse slaughter industry exists in the U.S. for one reason, to make a large profit satisfying Europe's voracious appetite for American horsemeat. It has nothing to do with saving "unwanted horses" from neglect, and everything to do with supply and demand.Americans must take action and stop this slaughter. Please contact your senators now, this week, and enforce your support for the passage of legislation that will outlaw the slaughter of America’s horses and protect their welfare.

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Posted: Monday, December 04, 2006 Article comment by: marge dowler please stop the horse slaughter the horse was not meant for the food chain where would this country be if not for the horse. marge dowler

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Posted: Saturday, December 02, 2006 Article comment by: Carole Shaw

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Thank you kindly Sharon for your letter...
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Barbaro Jackson and my chronicling his life gave me a real wake-up call to long-standing hidden abuse of our horses. Both motivated me to explore
Exceller fund articles telling how the horse community knows of the slaughter but it's not the favorite dinner converstion on Sundays.
Excuse me -- maybe it needs to be for common sense and moral conscience to return with upholding law and order.
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Because Barbaro's fateful Preakness accident, his life challenged my beliefs in a need for Americans to take greater responsible care of their companions/pets. Barbaro unlikely will race again, but his owners know he has true merit, worth, and value -- helping millions reach beyond themselves and their pains.
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Raised in a family who used both work and riding horses, it boggles my mind how we give people second chances, why not our horses? Horses bond to us, they have a spirit and intelligence that relate to us. They will protect us even to the death -- like India's famous Marwari horses. Their spirits are forever intertwined with humankind's. Even the Dutch hold their horses in better esteem than some people I know.
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Thankfully, there are Americans who know a horse's real worth! Everything happens for a reason. If true, then the 41 horses involved in a nationally-covered, tractor trailer accident in Missouri was fate. When Longmeadow Ranch Rescue emergency team swung into action, it felt like September 11th in many ways.
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American conscience was raised to the real plight of these critcally-injured horses fighting for their lives -- not once but twice. The second time was keeping the 23 survivors from the slaughter houses and future killer buyers. Who knew they would become a living testament of true American spirit?
Hence, just as we fight ignorance and inhumanness in our disposable society, we also have to do the same thing with a few bad men in key places trying to make our horses out to be criminals! What?? Implementing a three strike law in a sneaky maneuver to undo 34 years of protective laws for horses was unethical.
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So, who are the real criminals here? Horses treated like inmates or the few deciding the fate of many? It is time we had a few good men and women (like the Marines) to right this terrible wrong.
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Where did our ethics go? Purely observing the facts, I see moral conscience, and capitalistic agendas that cowtow to the almighty dollar!!! After paying our property taxes yesterday (far cry from $5.00), one has to ask what loophole and right do these foreigners (horse plant owners) have to make a mockery of our US Congress and its will? They already had law in place stopping payment of the USDA meat inspectors of these horse plants, yet they still are getting paid privately.
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The legal system to protect is like a puppet show. Who is pulling the strings?
We as American citizens are supposed to live in a republic whereby the elected officials represent our voice and exercise our power. Yet it seems to me that one or two men in key positions can block what is right by thwarting the protective care of our horse legacies.
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Then I learned through www.netposse.org over half our horses going to slaughterhouses (old cattlehouses) are stolen! Yes, the very loving horses (Americans own) get stolen right out from under our noses. To add insult to injury, our rightfully-owned property gets more abused having many of these healthy young animals ending up at auction for horsemeat.
How would you handle telling your son or daughter their precious horse became horsemeat? What will it take to wake up the rest of America besides Barbaro?The fearful argument that if S.1915 becomes law protecting horses and banning slaughter that there will be a overburden of unwanted horses -- which is not true.
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Rescues have been pitching in together harder now to keep saving as many as they can. Even the Bureau of Land Management (now under watchful eyes) continues with its adoption program. It's success is based on fact that more responsible owners are willing to adopt.
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And California's pilot test progam has verified there is no additional burden on the state. Horses are more than property though some might think differently. However, there is a far better way to treat our property of American horses. It first starts with me at home. Personally, my own wakeup call returned me to my roots and now am doing something positive by sponsoring two horses and removing previous abusive inhumanness.
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Let a horse teach you what it means to be human in a inhumane world where life is anything but cheap!!!
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Come Tuesday, December 5th will be making special calls again to our state Senators to support S.1915 and ban a practice that never should have been allowed in the first place. How many more will stand up and be counted to do the right thing?
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Posted: Saturday, December 02, 2006 Article comment by: Lorraine Brown Although the bill to protect our horses is not high on the agenda of the Senate, the issue itself is incompatible with what our democracy stands for.
As we think of ourselves as a free and just society, it is our responsible to promote the well being of all living things. To allow the brutal and cruel practice of horse slaughter to be allowed in this country is reprehensible is contrary to our values of decency, compassion and justice as a nation. Our Congress must consider all issues that concern Americans and respond by bringing Bill S1915 to a vote.
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Posted: Saturday, December 02, 2006 Article comment by: Mary
Sharon
Thank you for your letter. I was not aware of this horrific practice until recently. The American public is clearly against this practice, the House bill HR 503 preventing horse slaughter passed , and yet our Senators can't seem to get their bill S1915 onto the floor for a vote. If this bill S1915 does not pass before they leave at year end, the process has to start all over again!! 100,000 horses a year are dying while the Senate waits. Please call your senators and tell them to get S1915 onto the floor for a vote immediately.
Call the congressional switchboard right now - for your senators (202)224-3121 and let your voice be heard for the spirit of the horses.
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Posted: Saturday, December 02, 2006 Article comment by: Jo Edwards
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Thank you, Sharon, for posting this letter and opening the eyes of those who aren't aware of the barbaric and heinous acts committed against the American horse in order to feed Europe and Japan in what they consider a delicacy. I consider it sick and it has to stop! Call your senators today!
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Posted: Saturday, December 02, 2006 Article comment by: Cora M. Adelizzi
I am appalled and disgusted that our horses are being treated so badly. Our representatives in the House have listened to their constituents and passed HR 503, and now the Senate needs to stand up the same way to support S 1915.
Horse slaughter must be banned in our country. I agree that we should not tell people in other countries how to live, or what to eat, but when it involves American horses on American soil, then I feel we need to stand up for what is ours.
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If people in other countries choose to eat horse meat that is their business, but they should not be conducting their “business” in our country using our horses.I live in a state that is home to one of the abominations, Cavel Intl. in DeKalb Illinois.
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I can tell you that the slaughter houses are currently hurting our state, as well as Texas, which is the location of the other two slaughter houses. People are boycotting travel to our states. I know of several travel agencies that refuse to book any vacation or convention arrangements as long as the slaughter houses remain open.
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It damages the reputation of the great states of Illinois and Texas to have the atrocity of a slaughter house operating within its borders. Some opponents of S1915 feel that banning slaughter will lead to an “unwanted horse epidemic”. That is not the case.
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A large percentage of horses slaughtered are actually stolen, many more are purchased from private owners by kill buyers who misrepresent themselves, saying they will be giving the animal a good home.
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The owner has no idea that their beloved friend is on its way to a meeting with the bolt gun and a dinner plate overseas. California has been a leader on this issue. They have banned slaughter. There was no unwanted horse problem. There was no increase in the number of abused or abandoned horses. What did happen was that horse theft in their state decreased 34%.
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Other opponents would have you believe that this bill threatens the cattle industry. This is simply not the case. Horses are not livestock. They are not meant for human consumption. They are routinely given wormers and other drugs that are clearly labeled as not fit for animals meant for human consumption.
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Yet they are still slaughtered and sent to unsuspecting people overseas who have no idea what was in the system of the animal they are now eating. If we stopped shipping horse meat overseas, Europe would buy more of our American beef.
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Manufacturers of cattle feed would see an increase of feed sales. This bill is not a threat to the cattle industry at all. As a matter of fact, the cattle industry would be a winner.There is no valid and compelling reason to continue a practice that a majority of Americans are so overwhelmingly against. It is time for our senators to stand up and do the right thing. Vote in favor of S1915, the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act as it stands, without amendments. The lives of 90,000 horses are at stake.

*** Sharon's article also appeared in the Wallowa County Chieftain November 30, 2006 and Tim Woolley Racing News Page December 1, 2006.

The Patriot News (PennLive.com) ran the following special news article written by Lorri Shaver, our Pennsylvania Barbaro Ambassador.

*

AS I SEE IT LORRI ROUSH SHAVER

*

Horses were never meant to be raised for food
*

Monday, November 27, 2006
Three months ago, the U.S. House of Representatives overwhelming passed a bill to finally end the slaugh ter of American horses for overseas human consumption.
*

Horses were never meant to be raised as a food source. They are not livestock. They are sentient beings, taught to trust us and be our companions.
*

It is an extreme betrayal of trust that we even consider sending them to the slaughterhouse. And the most shocking part is that these horses have become "What's for dinner?" in France, Belgium, Italy and Japan.
*

Some will tell you that it is only the old and infirm that end up at the slaughterhouse. Not so. Over 92 percent of the horses sold at auction and ending up at the slaughterhouse are healthy young horses. "Young" meat is desirable for the dinner table.
*

Let's also be very clear: There is nothing humane about slaughter. It's a horrific, terrifying event for the horse. The captive bolt pistol intended to render them senseless before having their throats slit open rarely hits its mark. Horses are flight animals, and they see the blows coming. They fight desperately to avoid the bolt. Many times the horses are hit again and again, resulting in head and eye injuries. Many are still conscious as they are slit open and hung by one back leg to "bleed out."
*

It has been suggested that there will be an overflow of unwanted horses if slaughter is ended. I strongly dispute that. Somewhere between 50,000 and 30,000 horses are stolen each year. When California banned slaughter within its borders, the number of stolen horses went down, and there was no increase in neglected or abused horses. There are hundreds of horse rescues working in America to save our horses at this very moment.
*

Responsible horse ownership needs to be promoted. If an owner cannot or will not pay the cost of humane euthanasia (which is minimal), then they should not have a horse.
*

Most Americans have no clue this atrocity is happening in the U.S. Every four minutes a horse is brutally killed in a slaughterhouse in America and the meat is going overseas for human consumption. The French and Japanese consider it a delicacy.
*

This is not about eating meat or not eating meat. This is about killing companion animals for human consumption overseas. Roy Jackson, co-owner of Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro, said it very well: "We have an obligation. We are their keepers." This is about responsible stewardship of companion animals.
*

The American people are speaking loudly and clearly, and they want this atrocity to end. The House passed this bill overwhelmingly in September, but the Senate's version, SB 1915, currently is languishing in the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. Please call our senators and Senate leaders and urge them to support this bill.
*

If it is not voted on before this Senate session ends, it dies and the entire process will need to be repeated in both the House and the Senate.
It's time to end the horror for America's horses.
LORRI ROUSH SHAVER writes from Hummelstown.
©2006 The Patriot-News
© 2006 PennLive.com All Rights Reserved.

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FORGIVING EACH OTHER 'Cause LIFE IS TOO SHORT!!! (by Mary L. and Carole Louise) Wednesday, December 6, 2006

"As Thanksgiving has passed and end of 2006 draws near,

What will the holiday spirit of giving bring to void all fear?

Wondered each day,

thinking what to say.

When chance came upon me with this to display:

Life is too short is my motto of choice,

When along came another, echoing the same voice.

Lo and behold this should appear,

making Barbaro smile ear to ear."

(poem by Carole Shaw, Barbaro's Premier Ambassador)

*

Words to Live By (Mary L., Barbaro's Ambassador)

"Do it for the horses...Do it for yourself...Pay it forward...

LIFE IS TOO SHORT...enjoy, share,

reach out...love, and have peace in your heart!"

Thank you all for what you have given to me...

from the bottom of my heart...

Let it begin with me. Join me please:

Let there be peace on earth,

And let it begin with me.

Let there be peace on earth,

The peace that was meant to be.

With God as our father,

Brothers are all we.

Let me walk with my brother,

In perfect harmony.

*

Let peace begin with me,

Let this be the moment now,

With every step I take.

Let this be my solemn vow.

To take each moment,

And live each moment,

In peace eternally.

Let there be peace on earth,

And let it begin with me.













Above are just some of the horses rescued by the Humane Society of Missouri September 27, 2006. Please visit Longmeadow Rescue Ranch and sponsor one of these horses. Thank you in advance for giving generously this coming holiday season and being a horse's hero! Also please visit Team Barbaro's Ambassador pages for the ones we are sponsoring so far.

*********************************

SPECIAL CHRISTMAS POEM FROM ALL TEAMS BARBARO December 2006

GIVING HONOR TO BABARO AS A FALLEN WARRIOR by the US SOLDIERS serving in IRAQ

FROM ALL THE TEAMS BARBARO: Cheers Alex

Joseph McCarthy
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A Different Christmas Poem

*
The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light, I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight. My wife was asleep, her head on my chest, My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.
*

Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white, Transforming the yard to a winter delight. The sparkling lights in the tree I believe, Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.
*

My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep, Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep. In perfect contentment, or so it would seem, So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.
*

The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near, But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear. Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know, Then the sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow.
*

My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear, And I crept to the door just to see who was near. Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night, A lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.
*

A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old, Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold. Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled, Standing watch over me, and my wife and my child.
*

"What are you doing?" I asked without fear, "Come in this moment, it's freezing out here! Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve, You should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!"
*

For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift, Away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts. To the window that danced with a warm fire's light
Then he sighed and he said "Its really all right, I'm out here by choice, I'm here every night." "It's my duty to stand at the front of the line, That separates you from the darkest of times.
*

No one had to ask or beg or implore me, I'm proud to stand here like my fathers before me. My Gramps died at ' Pearl on a day in December," Then he sighed, "That's a Christmas 'Gram always remembers. " My dad stood his watch in the jungles of ' Nam ' And now it is my turn and so, here I am.
*

I've not seen my own son in more than a while, But my wife sends me pictures, he's sure got her smile. Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag, The red, white, and blue... an American flag.
*

I can live through the cold and the being alone, Away from my family, my house and my home. I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet, I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat. I can carry the weight of killing another, Or lay down my life with my sister and brother.. Who stand at the front against any and all, To ensure for all time that this flag will not fall."
*

"So go back inside," he said, "harbor no fright, Your family is waiting and I'll be all right." "But isn't there something I can do, at the least, "Give you money," I asked, "or prepare you a feast? It seems all too little for all that you've done, For being away from your wife and your son."
*

Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret, "Just tell us you love us, and never forget. To fight for our rights back at home while we're gone, To stand your own watch, no matter how long. For when we come home, either standing or dead, To know you remember we fought and we bled. Is payment enough, and with that we will trust, That we mattered to you as you mattered to us."
*

PLEASE, would you do me the kind favor of sending this to as many people as you can? Christmas will be coming soon and some credit is due to our U.S. Service men and women for our being able to celebrate these festivities. Let's try in this small way to pay a tiny bit of what we owe. Make people stop and think of our heroes, living and dead, who sacrificed themselves for us.
LCDR Jeff Giles, SC, USN 30th Naval Construction Regiment OIC, Logistics Cell One Al Taqqadum, Iraq

***************************************

UPDATES ON WHAT's AHEAD THIS WEEK:

RE: Habitat for Horses

LAST CHANCE TO END HORSE SLAUGHTER IN THE USA

You may want to forward this to all you know who could help. Part of what we're doing is having these fax & call in days to hit the Senate & try to get them to take action. I often fax them, you may want to do the same. It'd be a good way to get the word out on what we've discussed.

These are some things that could be included:

Fact: Practically every horse owner routinely treats their horse with products such as Zimectrin (a de-wormer), Phenylbutazone (the aspirin of the horse world) and fly sprays; these products are clearly labeled "Not For Use On Animals Raised For Food." Meat tainted with these products can cause nasty long-term side effects in human consumers such as cancer, which is why federal regulations forbid they be administered to beef cattle, poultry or hogs. Since no such regulations exist against these products being given to horses and there are no safeguards against horse treated with these products ending up in the slaughterhouse, it's likely that tainted horsemeat is being shipped to Europe and Asia as you read this.

Fact: In the 1990's there was a sharp decline in the number is U.S. horses slaughtered. According to USDA records; 345,700 horses were slaughtered for export in 1990; ten years later in 2000 that number was 50,400. During this timeframe the number of horses slaughtered per year dropped by as many as 79,000, and was no rash of "unwanted horses." The reason the decline happened was due to slackening demand in Europe & Asia for horsemeat during that time.

Fact: 7,100 horses were imported from Canada for slaughter in the U.S. last year. How can there be an "unwanted horse problem" if the slaughterhouses have to import them??

Fact: The number of horses slaughtered has increased over the past two years due to increased demand abroad for U.S. horsemeat. The horse slaughter industry exists in the U.S. for one reason, to make a large profit satisfying Europe's voracious appetite for American horsemeat. It has nothing to do with saving "unwanted horses" from neglect, and everything to do with supply and demand.

Hope this helps.

Duane

***

FROM: Charmaine Jens, Barbaro's Colorado Ambassador December 1, 2006

SPECIAL POEM: FOR THE LOVE OF A HORSE
(LOVED BY ALL THE BARBARO AMBASSADORS)
This poem shows the "Woman and Girls' Love Connection" between them and their horses. This is why we work with Alex to help get S. 1915 passed to save them. Appears to equally apply to men in most of the words too.

FOR THE LOVE OF A HORSE

God gives us horses and compels some of us to love them. Yet why does the horse, an animal with such a big heart, live such a short life?

Perhaps it's because if our horses lived any longer, we wouldn't be able to bear losing them. Or, perhaps it's because God wants to ride.

Perhaps God looks down on the fine horses we raise and decides when it's His turn to ride. He gives us a few good years to care for and learn from them, but when the time is right, it's up to us to see them off gracefully.

Okay, perhaps not gracefully. Blowing into a kleenex is rarely graceful. But we can be grateful.

To have a horse in your life is a gift. In the matter of a few short years, a horse can teach a girl courage, if she chooses to grab mane and hang on for dear life. Even the smallest of ponies is mightier than the tallest girls. To conquer the fear of falling off, having one's toes crushed, or being publically humiliated at a horse show is an admirable feat for any child. For that, we can be grateful.

Horses teach us responsibility. Unlike a bicycle - or a computer - a horse needs regular care and most of it requires that you get dirty and smelly and up off the couch. Choosing to leave your cozy kitchen to break the crust of ice off the water buckets is to choose responsibility. When our horses dip their noses and drink heartily, we know we've made the right choice.

Learning to care for horse is both an art and science. Some are easy keepers, requiring little more than regular turn-out, flakes of hay, and a trough of clean water. Others will test - you'll struggle to keep them from being too fat or too thin. You'll have their feet shod regularly only to find shoes gone missing. Some are so accident-prone you'll swear they're intentionally finding new ways to injure themselves.

If you weren't raised with horses, you can't know that they have unique personalities. You'd expect this from dogs, but horses? Indeed, there are clever horses, grumpy horses, even horses with a sense of humor. Those prone to humor will test you by finding new ways to escape from the barn when you least expect it. I found one of ours on the front porch one morning, eating cornstalks I'd carefully arranged as Halloween decorations.

Horses can be timid or brave, lazy or athletic, obstinate or willing. You will hit it off with some horses and others will elude you altogether. There are as many "types" of horses as there are people - which makes the whole partnership thing all the more interesting.

If you never have ridden a horse before, you probably assume it is a simple thing you can learn in a weekend. You can, in fact, learn the basics on a Sunday - but to truly ride well takes a lifetime. Working with living being is far more complex than turning a key in the ignition and putting the car in "drive."

In addition to listening to the instructor, your horse will have a few things to say to you as well. On a good day, he'll be happy to go along with the program and tolerate your mistakes; on a bad day, you'll swear he's trying to kill you. Perhaps he's naughty or perhaps he's fed up with how slowly you're learning his language. Regardless, the horse will have an opinion. He may choose to challenge you (which can ultimately make you a better rider) or he may carefully carry you across streams...if it suits him. It all depends on the partnership - and partnership is what it's all about.

If you face your fears, swallow your pride, and are willing to work at it, you'll learn lessons in courage, commitment, and compassion, in addition to basic survival skills. You'll discover just how hard you're willing to work towards a goal, how little you know, and how much you have to learn. And, while some people think the horse "does all the work," you'll be challenged physically as well as mentally. Your horse may humble you completely. Or, you may find that sitting on his back is the closest thing you will get to heaven.

You can choose to intimidate your horse, but do you really want to? The results may come quickly, but will your work ever be as graceful as that gained through trust? The best partners choose to listen, as well as tell. When it works, we experience a sweet sense of accomplishment brought about by smarts, hard work, and mutual understanding between horse and rider. These are the days when you know with absolute certainty that your horse is enjoying his work.

If we make it to adulthood with horses still in our lives, most of us have to squeeze riding into our saturated schedules; balancing our need for things equine with those of our households and employers. There is never enough time to ride, or to ride as well as we'd like. Hours in the barn are stolen pleasures.

If it is in your blood to love horses, you share your life with them. Our horses know our secrets; we braid our tears into their manes and whisper our hopes in to their ears. A barn is a sanctuary in an unsettled world, a sheltered place where life's true priorities are clear: a warm place to sleep, someone who loves us, and the luxury of regular meals...Some of us need these reminders.

When you step back, it's not just about horses - it's about love, life, and learning. On any given day, a friend is celebrating the birth of a foal, a blue ribbon, or recovery from an illness. That same day, there is also loss; a broken limb, a case of colic, or a decision to sustain life or to end it gently. As horse people, we share the accelerated cycle of horses: the hurried rush of life, love, loss, and death that caring brings us for those animals. When our partners pass, it is more than a moment of sorrow.

We mark our loss with words of gratitude for the ways our lives have been blessed. Our memories are of joy, awe, and wonder. Absolute union. We honor our horses for their brave hearts, courage, and willingness to give.

To those outside our circle, it must seem strange. To see us in our muddy boots, who would guess such poetry lives in our hearts? We celebrate our companions with praise worthy of heroes. Indeed, horses have the hearts of warriors and often carry us into and out to fields of battle.

Listen to stories of that once-in-a lifetime horse; of journeys made and challenges met. The best of horses rise to the challenges we set before them, asking little in return.

Those who know them understand how fully a horse can hold a human heart. Together we share the pain of sudden loss and the lingering taste of illness. We shoulder the burden of deciding when or whether to to end the life of the true companion.

In the end, we're not certain if God entrusts us to our horses or our horses to us. Does it matter? We're grateful God loaned us the horse in the first place. And so we pray:

'Dear God,

After You've enjoyed a bit of riding, please give our fine horses the best of care. And, if it's not too much, might we have a least one more good gallop when we meet again?'

Dances With Horses (FORMULA ONE FARMS)

Carrie Giannandrea (sent to me by my horsey friend Haley and her Grandma)

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By Barbaro's Grace (Martita Goshan Nov 27, 2006)

where is grace and how do i live it..

i whisper to myself..well,

i do not have to look far for there you are..great horse..
*

LUMINOUS THREADS GENTLY

CONNECTING UPWARD, ONWARD, circling..circle....

-surrounded by extraordinary people all working as a team..in one direction..there is alex..

there is a host of people who unflinchingly day in and day out serve willingly..

dear dear gretchen and roy jackson..
*

i hear you Barbaro,

negotiating the first moves off the hay...

and in a few minutes of walking,..

the grace,

so much a part of your muscles and tone ,

returns--slowly but it returns..in small increments..

the daily courage you show to take a step

that you are not sure will land on solid ground.
*

THAT IS STRENGTH AND THAT IS FAITH.

the curiosity you show

for every little sound and creature...

ants and spider-- and mints...on the ledge...

the night nurses never miss a beat...

they are the fabric of your growing strength...

things grow silently in the night to bring.

that happiness splashed across your owners dear face...

in the winners circle yesterday with your stable pal,

SHOWING UP...what a metaphor that name...

they say some sages, that just to show up is half the battle in life--

ha ha so who will show up -- BARBARO?

*
WHO WILL SHOW UP TO FORGIVE, TO MOVE FORWARD,

*

TO BE MINDFUL OF EACH OTHER'S SPACE...

who will show up to negotiate with thick-muscled and dull politicans?

how do you know so much about us humans and our unpredictable ways?

how do you hear before we see?

the divine light that shines around creatures so clear and like you.

i whisper to myself, may i feed that light...

may we all feed that light in our own ways,

and care for each other--little benny and salvation?

and in our focus to help your horse nation get the freedoms and care,

security many of us already enjoy for YOU AND THE HORSE NATION...

at the least...

may your day continue to be founded

on the only thing that feeds

healthy muscle and pumping heart--

your blood --free of germs and infections,...

with darknesss always comes light...

and vice versa...that is why i write...

LOVE...pure, simple love...

in the light and in the dark.

martita

**************************

From Sue & Lorri, Barbaro's PA Ambassadors: http://saveahorsestable.net in Rogersville, Pennsylvania

ANGELS ANONYMOUS had special requests for help hand-delivered to Key Person who resides on several horse charities to assist this past weekend, December 2, 2006 (update from Debra & Carole, Barbaro's CoChairs).

Here's the feed store, they can probably take credit card payments for grain or their bill by phone. I think I'll call them Monday and pay for some grain or on their account.


Waynesburg Milling Co OFC 387 South Washington Street, Waynesburg, PA 15370 (724) 627-6137


November 27, 2006 11:27:07 A.M. Eastern Standard Time,

Hey friends,

Angela is young daughter of Kevin and Darlene Moore whose grandparents started Save a Horse Stable in Greene County PA. Based on what I've read, I believe this is a legitimately good rescue. They are not non-profit, but then neither is tbfriends Joe, and we know he's good guy.

A reporter by the name of Colleen is writing and article about the stable tomorrow and I look forward to seeing it. Colleen says she's known this family for 20 years.


I've been talking directly to Angela, trying to help her keep her chin up despite the negativity from one or two individuals. No negativity on my part to anyone, I assure you. Angela has invited me to the farm, and I will try to get there when in the area on business.

... if anyone can spare some money for them, or donate hay, or something, they really need some help.

Feedback appreciated,

Friends
Please help end the inhumane slaughter of America's horses for overseas human consumption:

https://community.hsus.org/campaign/US_2006_horsecallinday_3?qp_source=gabatn

The wind of heaven is that which blows between a horse's ears. ~Arabian Proverb

http://stores.ebay.com/Glacier-Lake





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