BARBARO EFFECT CONTINUES Part IVTuesday to Saturday Special Edition
December 12 thru December 16, 2006
FAMOUS QUOTES:
"A person gets from a symbol the meaning he puts into it." - The United States Supreme Court.
(Showing Up's Hollywood Derby win):
"He seems to be getting better; I haven't seen any signs of wear. He was bucking and playing in the barn this morning. He just keeps showing up." - Barclay Tagg.
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(Get Wells from Fans of Barbaro): "I love it! We would not have probably been able to be as positive and strong. It was really the people and everyone involved that just have been so positive and loving and supportive towards ourselves and Barbaro. It's pretty powerful when people love your horse. I am so grateful." - Roy Jackson.
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"Special Thanks to Alex Brown for being instrumental in helping care for Barbaro to make a difference in more lives than he could ever possibly know." - Fans and Friends of Barbaro/Teams Barbaro and his Ambassadors.
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"A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.” - Christopher Reeves.
Special Thanks to Mike Rea's sister Nancy and Mercy T. for this one/Team Barbaro.
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"Chocolate, men, coffee....some things are better rich." - Author Unknown
Special Thanks to Gayle B., Barbaro's WV Ambassador.
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"The greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated." - Mohandas Gandhi. Special reminder and thanks from Karen Holverson Team Barbaro Wisconsin.
*"VISION: Vision without a dream is merely a dream. Action without vision just passes the time. Vision with action can change the world." - Michael Bledsoe.
*(Barbaro's future) "His departure from here depends on many things. In my mind's eye, he can leave in not the so distant future. As soon as we believe he can be managed as well somewhere else, he will go somewhere else." - Dr. Dean Richardson as he accepted a $114,710.00 check from a company that makes model plastic horses while they were unveiling the 1/9th scale model of Barbaro. (excerpt from Sports Illustrated).
"The check goes to the special Barbaro Fund" - NBC staff, George D. Widener Hosptial for Large Animals.(December 16, 2006)*"Snifter's Spirit pulls a Barbaro in the final homestretch." - Leslie Morely, Team Barbaro Ambassador, Minnesota.
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"I love horses because they do not judge or have an opinion about people until they have been around you and take the time to figure you out. People tend to not normally do that. You can discipline horses the right way for mistakes made and they will listen, unlike people who normally will not. I happen to be a disabled person (in a wheelchair) who can't walk, but communicating with horses improves my will to want to get better..." (in honor of Mike Rea, quote by Candy Rickey - paraplegic.) Prayers are with you and your family, hoping you get that greatly needed Extreme Home Makeover by ABC's team. Read more about Candy and WHAT OUR HORSES TEACH US below.
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December 16, 2006 Update 2 5:45 PM EST
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" AFTER THE RACE"
From Lyn:
Just got this word from the breeder who was there last night:
"Spirit was full of himself when we went to the backside. He knew he had won." :)))
He knows what it's all about now! The backside means when he went back to the barn after his race. GOOD BOY!
And today a trainer friend of mine went past his stall and said "Spirit looked bright when I saw him this morning, head stuck out of stall, watching horses get bathed, bragging about what a good race horse he was...."
Thanks much for the after report on Spirit, Lyn!
Stats from Delwin and Seleta's www.captaincountdown.com
11/19: Snifter's Spirit finished a strong third in his debut in a $14,500 maiden special weight race at Sam Houston
12/15: In just his second career start, Snifters Spirit broke his maiden by six lengths at Sam Houston and pushed his bankroll to $10,295
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December 16, 2006 Update: 5:30 PM EST (REVISED, PLEASE READ)
Last night, Lyn Konkoly's racehorse *"Snifter's Spirit pulled a Barbaro in the homestretch and won" his maiden Sam Houston Park race - or as Debra says "broke his maiden." Lyn could not be there but did have support. Her own dad is horse trainer Andy Konkoly who lives in Sam Houston. However, "Spirit was actually trained by Bret Calhoun who is very experienced in graded stakes races," says Lyn. It was Bret who helped Spirit prepare for his race. As for Lyn's father, he specializes in training older claimers. Stay tuned for more about Bret Calhoun and Andy Konkoly in our upcoming trainer series...
More On Snifter's Spirit...His moma "Snifter," was owned by Delwin and his wife Seleta after she was retired for breeding. She was bred to Captain Countdown (www.captaincountdown.com) a stallion owned by them. While Lyn's dad trained horses, Lyn developed strong loving bonds for Snifter. When Snifter died, Delwin offered to name her only baby foal "Lyn's Angel." However, Lyn said, "No way, you can't name a boy horse Lyn and Snifter is the one that should be honored." Finally, with Seneta's help, everyone agreed upon "Snifter's Spirit." "It is a tremendous fit," says Lyn even though she is not listed as Spirit's official owner of record. "Delwin always refers to Spirit as 'your boy did this today' when talking to me - very generous people." For Lyn, this means she is kept abreast of everything Spirit does. She concludes, " I am deeply grateful to these two for allowing me to feel as if I am a part owner! Her legacy lives on in him, and he will forever be in my heart!"
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And, Lyn has a ritual where Spirit always touches his moma's photo with his nose and lips before a race - just for good luck along with prayers. She believes Snifter has his moma's spirit guiding his steps plus an extra benefit! His birthday is the same day as Barbaro's, April 29th, but one year younger than our Kentucky Derby boy). We will definitely keep our eyes on 2-year-old Snifter's Spirit. Congradulations from all of us to you and Spirit. Barbaro nods with high five hooves!! Getting a trophy too deserves a second round of high five hooves!
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December 15, 2006 Update: 9:30 PM
Spoke with Kristen from www.Horsehats.com. As you know, people are ordering the special Barbaro Fund Kentucky Derby hats (with roses). Charmaine and Kristen both confirm that all proceeds go to the Barbaro Fund. And, even thought this is a limited edition of 250 hats per edition, they plan on making more. You do get a signed certificate of authenticity by Roy and Gretchen Jackson which they approved November 28, 2006. If you do order one, expect about 2 weeks for delivery. Charmaine and I are very pleased with ours!!!!
*Please look to the latest evening additions upcoming Sunday December 17th for "TALKING HORSES with Michael Dickinson" who also trains and made the TAPETA safety track material and installed it at Fair Hill Training Center in Elkton, Maryland.
*Taylor's Special Story is included as well as update on Senator Tim Johnson's recovery from emergency breain surgery...he is still in critical condition.
_________WHAT BARBARO REMINDS US OF
Barbaro by his nature of stillness, feisty nips, charisma, and loving tranquility is a joyous mixture that makes his intelligence as mysterious as his iron will to live in the moment. His fighting spirit continues to inspire people in ways that have a healing effect. This effect translates further into what he reminds us all.
For Dina (Fan of Barbaro), that reminder is the prayer of Saint Francis - the patron saint for all animals. Here is an excerpt:
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"Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is doubt, faith;
Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light;
And, where there is sadness, joy.
O, Divine Master,
grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console;
to be understood as to understand;
to be loved as to love;
for it is in giving that we receive;
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
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Comments were that we have Mary L., our Ohio Ambassador to thank for started the power and emotions of love for spreading good will for the Christmas spirit to take hold and help spread the "Barbaro Effect." Thank you, Mary!
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December 15, 2006 (from Sep 24, 2006 article)
REMEMBERING THE CHAMPIONS (special thanks to Alex)
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TAYLOR's SPECIAL...had a rare story
From winning to being abandoned...to finally coming home.
The following is such an unusual true story that hits home so much it just has to be retold. The original article as it appeared in Kentucky.com
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By Mark Story (Herald-Leader Sports Columnist)
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If only horses could talk. What a story Taylor's Special had to tell.
The horse could've told you what it felt like to stand in the winner's circle on the tony grounds of Keeneland as a champion of the Blue Grass Stakes. And, what it was like - 20 years later - to spend six weeks or so homeless, wandering the countryside in Washington state living off rainwater and the land.
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If horses could talk, then right up until just a few minutes after 3 p.m. on Tuesday, when a veterinarian made the humane decision to pull a euthanizing needle from the back of her truck, Taylor's Special could have told you and amazing tale of survival.
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If horses could talk, Taylor's Special might have begun his story with a little smack about April 26, 1984, the day he kicked dirt into the eyes of all those haughty thoroughbred pedigree analysts.
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Taylor's Special daddy, a horse named Hawkin's Special, was a sprinter. Because the father wasn't much count when running more than 6 furlongs, the racetrack wise guys assumed the son wouldn't be either.
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But on a spring day at Keeneland, Taylor's Special got a pace-controlling ride from an emerging 30-year-old jockey named Pat Day and won - at at distance of one mile and an eighth. This was the track's most prestigious event, the Blue Grass Stakes.
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That victory gave an ambitious 30-year-old trainer striving to make the name Bill Mott matter in thoroughbred racing both a Grade I stakes victory and his first taste of the madness that is the Kentucky Derby trail.
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"There were probably 20 microphones stuck in my face after we won," Mott says now. "I guess that was when I realized the significance of what we had done."
In the weeks leading up to the Derby, Mott and Taylor's Special's owner, retired Brown-Forman Distilleries executive William F. Lucas, let themselves dream of "Stretching" the horse with the sprinter's pedigree another eighth of a mile. After all, to win the greatest race of them all, you have to run 11/4 miles.
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Pedigree concerns aside, one man had foreseen the Kentucky Derby in Taylor's Special future literally from the start. On the night that Taylor's Special was born at a farm just outside Louisville, breeder Dravo Foley and a friend, banker Hiram Taylor, had relieved the night watchman. They wound up delivering the mare Bette's Gold's foal themselves. That very night, Taylor predicted, "this is a Derby horse." Foley named the newborn Taylor's special in honor of his friend.
Such stories give Derby lore its flavor, but no Hollywood ending is forthcoming. Sent off as the fourth betting choice in the 110th Kentucky Derby, Taylor's Special came home 13th in a race won by Swale.
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Two weeks later, Taylor's Special ran fourth in the Preakness (which was won by Gate Dancer). "By then, we had a tired horse," Mott said. But not defeated. A hearty sort after his Triple Crown defeats, Taylor's Special raced three more years. He was retired in 1987 with 21 wins in 41 races and slightly more than $1 million in career earnings.
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If horses could talk, we could've asked Taylor's Special how he did it. How did a thoroughbred used to life at the hightest levels of horse racing survive for weeks on his own with no one to look after him? Maybe too, he'd have told us what he thought when a group of strangers subsequently came into his life and insisted on calling him "Nigel."
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It was September 28, 2004 when Jenny Edwards got the phone call. The president and executive director of Hope for Horses, a Washington state equine rescue organization, Edwards was told there was a large horse wandering the fields alone near Granite Falls, WA.
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Within two weeks, she was part of the Hope for Horses crew that went to pick up a horse with no home and, to them, no name. "I knew immediately it was someone special," Edwards said of the mystery horse - "the breeding showed in his carriage and bearing, the way he held himself - he was very proud."
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Not shockingly, the horse had starkly protruding ribs. According to the Henneke Body Condition Chart - a formula for quantifying the weight of horses - 1 is dangerously thin, and 5 being the ideal body weight. Edwards said "Nigel" was at 2.5. Hope for Horses gives a name to each of its animals they take in, working their way through the alphabet. They were at "N." "We called him Nigel," Edwards says.
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In a prior life, Jenny Edwards lived in Lexington. She met her husband, John, here. Though they left in September 1985, they still think of Lexington, Kentucky as home.
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So, in 1984, when a horse named Taylor's Special was the toast of Lexington after winning the Blue Grass, Jenny Edwards lived here. She does not remember the race. But looking at the regal bearing of the animal she called Nigel made Edwards believe that this was not a run-of-the-mill horse. Registered thoroughbreds each bear an identifying tatoo inside the upper lip.
Edwards had Nigel's checked, but a key identifying aspect of his tattoo was faded. "It was the part that would have told the year of birth. It got a little tricky and we were having trouble making it out." One of the reasons we kept him so long, we didn't want to start this big frenzy, then find out the horse wasn't who we thought he was."
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Using a digital photograph, they eventually ascertained the faded evidence in the tattoo. Edwards searched Google for the tattoo. It led to an all-breed horse data base. What came up was a "Taylor's Special horse-pedigree report." Edwards realized her Nigel had once won the Blue Grass Stakes and run in the Kentucky Derby. How in the world, she wondered, had such a horse ended up on its own , wandering around Washington state?
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Of course the tragic endings in foreign slaughterhouses of retired American racing stars such as Exceller and Ferdinand showed even famous horses are in danger of slipping into the abyss of neglect as they age and their breeding value diminishes. Once retired to stud, Taylor's Special stood at a farm in Maryland from 1988-93, then was listed with a different farm in Wanham, Alberta, Canada from 1994-99. His final foal crop of five foals came in 2002, and the breeder of four of them was a man listed in Washington state.
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Edwards says she found out that the farm near Granite Falls, WA, where Taylor's Special had ended up, was owned by an elderly couple. After they died, the farm fell into disrepair. Which is how a Blue Grass Stakes winner came to spend six weeks homeless. At last realizing the stature of the horse she had, "It became real important to me," Edwards says, "to put him back in his roots where they would value what he did."
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If horses could talk, Taylor's Special could have told you about his unlikely final days as something of a Central Kentucky tourist attraction. Once she determined to send her Nigel back to Kentucky, Jenny Edwards eventually came in contact with a man named Michael Blowen.
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Blowen is a former Boston Globe film critic who came to Kentucky to launch an organiztion, Old Friends, that is essentially an old folks home for past thoroughbred stallions. Many rescue groups don't want to deal with the equine version of "grumpy old men" because they can, well, be difficult.
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This summer, Old Friends acquired a farm of its own just outside Georgetown. The public can stop and see such past champions as Precisionist and Ogygian. This weekend, Blowen will open a bed-and-breakfast on the farm. The money made, he says, will go back into providing for 22 horses currently in the care of Old Friends.
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Since May 29, 2005, one of Old Friend's most popular attractions had been the horse with the unusual compelling life history. When the tourists came to see Taylor's Special, Blowen would regale them with the tale of the Blue Grass winner found living in the wild.
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One day early in the summer, I called Blowen, saying simply I was looking for a horse story with a happy ending. "Have you ever heard about a horse called Taylor's Special?" said he. For three months, in between my other job-related duties, I reported on and researched the 1984 Blue Grass Stakes winner.
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On Tuesday, I had a 1:30 p.m. appointment to see Blowen and Taylor's Special for the final time before writing this story. When I got there, I asked where Taylor was. Blowen broke down in tears. "I can't talk about Taylor right now," he said. "He had an accident last night. I'm afraid it's bad."
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Eventually, Blowen composed himself and told me the story. He and his wife had returned from dinner out around 9 p.m. They noticed the shadow of a horse wandering free somewhere he wasn't supposed to be. Taylor's Special had jumped the gate of his paddock. The cuts on his left rear leg were noticeable, but Blowen called a horseman whose judgment he trusted to come look at the 25- year-old stallion. The man did not believe there was structural damage to the horse's bones.
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Early Tuesday, Taylor's Special was being walked. Maybe the cuts on his leg were bothering him. Maybe he was just agitated. For whatever reason, Blowen says, the horse just pounded his leg into the ground. What resulted was a noisy pop. Shortly before 3 p.m., the x-rays came back and the news was grim - broken femur in the horse's left rear leg. "These older horses are like people; their bones are brittle," said an attending veterinarian, Holly S. Aldinger.
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Inside the barn, Taylor's Special was frantically shaking his head up and down doing the same thing with his right front leg. "This horse is in a lot of pain," Aldinger said quietly. Obviously, there is only one humane option. In the moment, you really wished horses could talk, because that would mean you could also tell them things.
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One suspects Taylor's Special would have wanted to know that Mott - who went on to train the great Cigar, to win Eclipse awards and become a Hall of Fame trainer - never forgot the horse who did so much to help make his name.
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When Taylor's Special came to Old Friends, Blowen says Mott made a financial contribution towards the horse's care. "He was really the springboard for me into bigger and better things," said Mott just last week.
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As he took his final breaths, one suspects the champion horse who knew what it was like to wander a countryside alone would have wanted to know that the volunteers who took care of him over the past year, cared so much - they were outside the barn leaning on each other - every eye ringed with tears.
"Now you can run painfree through God's heavens and let him ride you" - CLN Shaw
Arabian blessings!
Heaven would not be heaven unless there was a horse there to greet you...
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Barbaro's Lighter Fare (he acknowledges Lord Jesus);
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SPECIAL CHRISTMAS BARBARO POEMS
Barbaro's Away in a Manger
by Shannon & Zeena December 14, 2006
Away in a manger,
No crib for a bed;
The little colt Barbaro,
Lays down his sweet head.
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by Shannon & Zeena December 14, 2006
Away in a manger,
No crib for a bed;
The little colt Barbaro,
Lays down his sweet head.
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The stars in the bright sky,
Looked down where He lay;
The little colt Barbaro,
Asleep on the hay.
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The cattle are lowing,
The colt is awake.
His leg is still sore,
No crying he makes.
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The colt is awake.
His leg is still sore,
No crying he makes.
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I love Thee, Lord Jesus,
Look down from the sky.
And stay by my side,
'Til morning is nigh.
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Be near me, Lord Jesus,
I ask Thee to stay.
Close by me forever,
And love me I pray.
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Bless all the dear horses,
In Thy tender care.
And take us to heaven,
To live with Thee there.
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And, to Laurie Hammer, Barbaro's effect inspired a new poem for our Senators called:
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LIBERTY FOR HORSES
(Dedicated December 8, 2006 to horses and horse lovers everywhere)
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For far too long
We waited now,
More horses died,
For their delay.
Please God now!
Please have them hear,
Oh Senators,
The time grows near!
For many horses,
Their fate is sealed,
We had no vote,
Time had stood still.
We pray to God,
Open all their hearts!
To vote for life,
No more delays!
Into a horse's heart,
Let all the Senate see,
And in that love,
Vote now for Liberty!
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Additionally, comments on Laurie's poetry "expresses what my heart can't put into words," as many pray like Nancy P., our California Ambassador asking for Divine intervention. Many echo her sentiments to keep praying again for those horses who could not and still cannot be saved for the moment. However, keep in mind since Senator Burns conceded that the Horse Bill will pass, we have hope according to Chris Heyde, Legislative Director for SAPLONLINE.
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DECEMBER 15th NEWS UPDATE on SENATOR TIM JOHNSON's CONDITION:
Just in from ABC news with Commentary by CLN Shaw:
Diane Sawyer announced that Senator Johnson (newly appointed South Dakota Democratic Senate seat) is recovering and "squeezed his wife's hand" recognizing her after his emergency brain surgery to repair a bleeding aneurysm. His condition was brought on by the presence of a ruptured and bleeding tangled mass of arterial blood vessels. He is listed in critical condition at George Washington University Hospital. According to Senior Washington correspondent Jake Tavers, reporters recognized there was something definitely wrong as the Senator started speaking at a Conference and had trouble with words.
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Despite his long recovery ahead, he can still maintain his seat leaving the Democrats in power by one vote (49 to 51).
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Jake Tavers questions if Senator Johnson can keep his seat while bedridden for months. The answer is very much a big yes! According to his research, in 1943, Senator Carter Glass of Virginia was sworn in at 85 years-old by the Senate Secretary at his home since he was too weak to attend D.C. He remained at home for the next three years until his death. And, in 1964, when the civil rights bill came up for passage, Senator Claire Engel of California was carried into the Senate votings, despite serious brain injury and was partially paralyzed after removing a serious brain tumor. "He still managed to raise his hand in a motion toward his eye to signify an aye vote and the bill passed the Senate to become law. The point is there is much precedence for the Senator to take as much time to recover as he needs, according to the White House."
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SUNDAY EXCLUSIVE: Incoming Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid joins George on Sunday, December 17th, to discuss Sen. Tim Johnson's recovery, Iraq and the Democratic agenda for the 110th Congress. (www.abcnews.go.com)
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By LAURIE KELLMAN
WASHINGTON Dec 14, 2006 (AP)— Tim Johnson is a rare senator who almost never has sought the spotlight. Asked by a local columnist if he ever tires of being described as boring, Johnson replied: Not at all.
"He's not one of the flashy stars that's always looking for the camera in D.C.," said Bill Richardson, head of the political science department at Johnson's alma mater, the University of South Dakota.
But long before the two-term senator's medical crisis this week, Johnson won national attention by keeping Democrats guessing about whether they could count on his vote.
He bucked his party by being only one of three Democrats to vote to confirm Justice Samuel Alito's nomination to the Supreme Court. He voted to ban late-term abortions. He said yes to a constitutional amendment to ban flag burning, anathema to most in his party.
And then there was perhaps the defining vote of Johnson's career: whether to authorize the use of military force in Iraq. Johnson voted yes, though he had a very personal reason to vote no: his oldest son, Brooks.
Then 32 and a staff sergeant with the Army's 101st Airborne Division, Brooks would be among the first sent to the region, Johnson knew.
"I talked to Brooks prior to this vote and his response was, 'Dad, you do what is right for the country and I'll do what is right as a soldier,'" Johnson recalled. "I said on the (Senate) floor that it's very likely I would be sending my own son into combat."
Brooks has since returned safely and had a son, one of Johnson's three young grandchildren, according to the senator's Web site.
Johnson acknowledged that some view him "as this sort of dour Scandinavian."
"But I think that we Scandinavians have a sense of humor, too," he said in a 2002 interview with The Associated Press. His wit is described by many as self-deprecating.
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So while we will begin new strategies starting January 4, 2007 when the 110th Congress reconvenes, remember we will do it better than before, count on it.
As Barbaro reminds us all of our horse's liberty, let's make sure to "study up" with the following helpful link provided by Debra Lopez, Chairman and originator of Campaigning for Barbaro : Special Thank yous Debra!
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The above link will help you know who are your new and current House of Representative and Senators since the Democrats now hold the majority seats.
Adding to this reminder is a new article just posted to Blood-Horse's The Horse
dated December 13, 2006.
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It discusses the fact that all horse supporters will have to start again with the new Congress from square one. But , despite fact the Senate adjourned December 8th without taking action on S. 1915, certainly does not mean we have a total loss.
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"According to Cathy Liss, Legislative Director for SAPLONLINE, Society for Animal Protective Legislation (SAPL), said the bill gained public and legilative support because of the increased attention that it received. She was optimistic about the bill's fate in the House next year." (per Chad Mendell, Managing editor of Blood Horse).
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Keep in mind that the US House of Representatives did pass the companion bill HR 503 in September 2006 by vote of 263 - 146. And, some of the bill's language did worry some organizations as to its intent and potential problems arising from further abuse with "unwanted horses."
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One group, the American Association of Equine Practitioner's reiterated,"While HR 503 and its supporters are well-intentioned, the passage of this legislation, without adequate funding or an infrastructure in placeto care for unwanted horses, will create a series of unintended consequences that negatively impact the health and welfare of the horse."
Those wishing to comment on this may leave their comments in the section provided at the end of the news below.
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Meanwhile, something else Barbaro reminds us of:
Continue to pray for Mike Rea and Barbaro as asked in pray vigils. There will be another coming up this Saturday and Sunday evening at 7 PM EST (eastern standard time). Before then, please visit Gratefulness.org for Barbaro. (Just click on each one separately or once for Mike or Barbaro and go to their respective groups).
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Continue praying for those around you in need too. Many Ambassadors have special prayer requests they shared as well as Teams Barbaro, so please include each other too. Special thanks to all of you doing this and Arabian blessings on everyone of all walks and faiths.
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December 15, 2006 UPDATE:
"Your input on the issues that are most important to you will help us formulate our strategy and guide our work in the first weeks of the new Congress." Here is an important survey to provide valuable imput to them during the first 100 hours of them reconvening January 4, 2006. Please take timeout to do the survey for Barbaro and others like him. Click on the blue title. Thanks in advance.
Part 1b: PLEASE READ and GO COMMENT, THANKS in Advance!!!!
Sharon just had another letter published in the Wallowa County Chieftain. After reviewing, send your opinions and comments by clicking on the title link here:
Senators must listen to the people
We lost a bitter battle to save American horses this year. Our senate decided not to listen to the concerns of their constituents and our horses are paying the price.This needs to stop! Congress is supposed to be our voice. Our voice rang loud and clear with the House of Representatives 263-146 vote. The easier part was to get through the Senate and that turned out to be the bill's demise. Why? When the Senate saw the vote in the house, along with our repeatedly daily phone calls and faxes to the senators, that alone should have been enough to decide the vote.Our political system failed us Americans and is bending over backwards to make European countries rich off of our horses.Our horses are very desired overseas because they are well taken care of, yet toxins in each of these horses are being overlooked just to make a buck. No American horse should be slaughtered for food. It is unsafe and it is wrong.Please, Senate, stand up and correct your very big mistake and get a bill out for a vote to stop the slaughter and transport of our horses.We have spoken. Just look at all the phone calls, emails and faxes in your offices. Stop shutting our voices out. It's not fair; it's un-American!
Sharon Crumb, N.J.
Reader Comments
Posted: Friday, December 15, 2006Article comment by: Daryl Smoliak
Posted: Friday, December 15, 2006Article comment by: Daryl Smoliak
This letter is correct! The senate did not listen to the people. Every poll taken across the country voted overwhelmingly in favor of a ban! This, in addition to the aforementioned in the letter, shows the current senate landscape does not hear the American people. Finally, all senate members are aware the slaughter industry is owned by a Belgium company and does not pay taxes in spite of the fact they operate on U.S. soil! Newly elected officials must be made aware of these, and other facts, about the horse slaughtering.
Posted: Saturday, December 16, 2006 Article comment by: C Jaffe
Perhaps the biggest and cruelest lie of all, is that the horses who wind up going to slaughter are "old, sick, infirm" - A BIG LIE. That's what "they" want you to believe.
Many good internet links, such as http://www.saplonline.org/ (Willie Nelson speaks for their agenda, btw) furnish facts and more links to the "real" story. PLEASE do whatever you can to precipitate quick passage of the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act as soon as possible when Congress reconvenes in January 2007. Contact your Representatives and Senators, requesting that the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act - as embodied in last session's H.R. 503 and S. 1915 - be submitted anew and acted on with all deliberate speed and without unnecessary delay.
Thank you, Wallowa County Chieftain, for publishing Sharon Crumb's follow-up to her earlier published letter urging passage of S. 1915. It is imperative that the public be informed, and from what I have seen, you are doing a very good job.
C. Jaffe, a life-long horse owner, in Hammond, Indiana
Perhaps the biggest and cruelest lie of all, is that the horses who wind up going to slaughter are "old, sick, infirm" - A BIG LIE. That's what "they" want you to believe.
Many good internet links, such as http://www.saplonline.org/ (Willie Nelson speaks for their agenda, btw) furnish facts and more links to the "real" story. PLEASE do whatever you can to precipitate quick passage of the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act as soon as possible when Congress reconvenes in January 2007. Contact your Representatives and Senators, requesting that the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act - as embodied in last session's H.R. 503 and S. 1915 - be submitted anew and acted on with all deliberate speed and without unnecessary delay.
Thank you, Wallowa County Chieftain, for publishing Sharon Crumb's follow-up to her earlier published letter urging passage of S. 1915. It is imperative that the public be informed, and from what I have seen, you are doing a very good job.
C. Jaffe, a life-long horse owner, in Hammond, Indiana
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Part 2: PLEASE READ and Click on Letter TITLE to go to comment. Thanks in advance. The following is Sharon's second letter acknowledged by Marjorie Caruso at the Tucson Sun. copyright 2006 - reprinted for viewing only.
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Guest Opinion:
Stop inhumane slaughtering of our horses to feed elite Europeans
SHARON CRUMB
Published: 12.14.2006
Every year, 90,000 American horses are sold at auctions to people disguising themselves as loving people who will give these horses good homes.
They have told this lie to the people who are forced to sell their horses at auction. These people, who love their horses but can not afford to give them adequate care any more, learn later that their horse went to slaughter instead.
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SHARON CRUMB
Published: 12.14.2006
Every year, 90,000 American horses are sold at auctions to people disguising themselves as loving people who will give these horses good homes.
They have told this lie to the people who are forced to sell their horses at auction. These people, who love their horses but can not afford to give them adequate care any more, learn later that their horse went to slaughter instead.
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There are children who had their horse stolen who received a phone call that their stolen horse was recovered. Instead of joy, they have had to go to the slaughterhouse to identify the hide.
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Microchips are cut out at the slaughterhouse and thrown in the trash.
But microchips are not the only thing being cut out and thrown in the trash. Testimony from workers at the slaughterhouses reveal that they cut the foal out of the horse and throw it in the trash, sometimes seeing it cry or its heart beating.
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But microchips are not the only thing being cut out and thrown in the trash. Testimony from workers at the slaughterhouses reveal that they cut the foal out of the horse and throw it in the trash, sometimes seeing it cry or its heart beating.
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The horse is shot in the head with a captive bolt to render the it unconscious. Facts reveal that this does not always happen. Therefore, the horse is very much alive and shot several times in the head prior to being hoisted up by the rear leg and having its throat slit to bleed out.
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These horses are very alive, aware and frightened while they breathe their last breath.
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Every four minutes, a beautiful young, healthy horse is slaughtered in America.
This is not being done to feed our starving nation. It is being done to please the appetite of foreigners at a price of $40 per pound.
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This is not being done to feed our starving nation. It is being done to please the appetite of foreigners at a price of $40 per pound.
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The horse sells at slaughter for up to $400 and in turn three foreign-owned slaughterhouses reap the profits.
Why? you may ask.
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Why? you may ask.
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In Belgium, it is illegal to kill a horse for human consumption. Two of the three American slaughterhouses are Belgian-owned, the other one is European-owned.
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The European Union has a long list describing inhumane treatment of horses going to slaughter, along with a long list of drugs that horses being slaughtered should never have taken.
The fact is, all our horses have these drugs in them at time of slaughter.
Some of these drugs cause cancer to those who ingest them. Some of the people test positive for steroids they didn't eat but which were in their systems anyway.
Doctors in Europe are telling their heart patients to eat horse meat because it is low in fat. These doctors are, in effect, killing their patients.
Why are we sticking our necks out to feed the elite people of other countries?
As Americans, we are outraged. Our representatives, who took an oath of office, pledging to be our voices, are not listening to their constituents who call on a daily basis asking them to get S1915 - the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act - on the floor for a vote.
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The fact is, all our horses have these drugs in them at time of slaughter.
Some of these drugs cause cancer to those who ingest them. Some of the people test positive for steroids they didn't eat but which were in their systems anyway.
Doctors in Europe are telling their heart patients to eat horse meat because it is low in fat. These doctors are, in effect, killing their patients.
Why are we sticking our necks out to feed the elite people of other countries?
As Americans, we are outraged. Our representatives, who took an oath of office, pledging to be our voices, are not listening to their constituents who call on a daily basis asking them to get S1915 - the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act - on the floor for a vote.
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United States senators are dragging their heels on a vote for S1915, and they are clearly not listening to the American people.
There is simply no justification for slaughtering American horses.
It is not economical to the United States. It is not a meat offered in the United States to feed starving people. It is not right all around.
I am hopeful you will add your voice to the American people's will and support S1915.
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There is simply no justification for slaughtering American horses.
It is not economical to the United States. It is not a meat offered in the United States to feed starving people. It is not right all around.
I am hopeful you will add your voice to the American people's will and support S1915.
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The bill passed the House of Representatives on Sept. 7 by a vote of 263-146. It is up to the 109th Senate to finalize this bill by a vote.
Without that vote, 90,000-plus horses will have to endure the most horrific, brutal experience of their life to end their lives. This cannot, and will never be, acceptable to us.
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Without that vote, 90,000-plus horses will have to endure the most horrific, brutal experience of their life to end their lives. This cannot, and will never be, acceptable to us.
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Sharon Crumb lives in Phillipsburg, N.J. For more information: www.equineadvocates.com and www.kaufmanzoning.net/horsemeat. This Guest Opinion appears online only and not in the Tucson Citizen's print edition.
COMMENTS:
Comments on this Story
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1. Comment by Steve H. (#4002) — December 14,2006 @ 3:40AM
Whoa! One of the most disturbing parts of this rant is the admission that American horses are chockful of cancer-causing drugs and steroids. So who is it, really, that is mistreating these animals??
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Write a letter to the Editor10 Total Comments — See All Comments
1. Comment by Steve H. (#4002) — December 14,2006 @ 3:40AM
Whoa! One of the most disturbing parts of this rant is the admission that American horses are chockful of cancer-causing drugs and steroids. So who is it, really, that is mistreating these animals??
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2. Comment by Ivanka S. (IvankaSteener) — December 14,2006 @ 9:05AM
Thank you for this very informative article. I believe that horse slaughter cuts against the American moral fiber. We do not eat horses so why should we allow foreign-owned companies to slaughter them on our soil and profit from their meat. I urge everyone to call our Senators and let them know that we are against horse slaughter. The Senate operator can be reached at 202 224 3121.
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Thank you for this very informative article. I believe that horse slaughter cuts against the American moral fiber. We do not eat horses so why should we allow foreign-owned companies to slaughter them on our soil and profit from their meat. I urge everyone to call our Senators and let them know that we are against horse slaughter. The Senate operator can be reached at 202 224 3121.
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3. Comment by L G. (LG) — December 14,2006 @ 10:34AM
Ms. Crumb,
I’ve always believed that everyone is entitled to his or her opinion. But when an opinion is based on patently false information, and the persuader tries to shape opinion through blatant lies, someone must step in. I am afraid someone has passed along grossly misleading information and, in your column, you’re only helping to spread these false rumors. This column is so full of misinformation and flat-out FALSE information that it is hard for me to know where to begin.
Unfortunately, in this comment area, I am unable to footnote information. If you like backup for any of the points below, however, I’d be pleased to share it with you.
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Ms. Crumb,
I’ve always believed that everyone is entitled to his or her opinion. But when an opinion is based on patently false information, and the persuader tries to shape opinion through blatant lies, someone must step in. I am afraid someone has passed along grossly misleading information and, in your column, you’re only helping to spread these false rumors. This column is so full of misinformation and flat-out FALSE information that it is hard for me to know where to begin.
Unfortunately, in this comment area, I am unable to footnote information. If you like backup for any of the points below, however, I’d be pleased to share it with you.
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4. It IS NOT illegal to slaughter horses in Belgium. I have a letter from the Belgian Federal agency that oversees food production (FASFC) indicating that it is perfectly legal to slaughter horses for human consumption in that country. If you’d like me to send you a PDF of that letter, I’d be pleased to share it.
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5. People who buy horses at auctions do not “disguise” themselves as loving people who will find homes for the horses. Most people who take their horse to an auction know that any horse that sells for under a few hundred dollars may end up at a plant. There’s a wonderful article in this month’s issue of Texas Monthly on this very subject. Horse traders set the bottom of the horse market, and basic economics take over from there. Unfortunately, just as there are 5 million cats and dogs every year that must be euthanized because they’re unwanted- there are horses that are simply unwanted as well. What to do with these unwanted horses? Let them run wild and starve to death? Euthanizing and disposing of a thousand-pound animal is quite different than burying a 20 pound cat.
If a horse owner wants to ensure that his or her horse does not go to a processing facility, he or she may (1) pay to have the horse euthanized by a veterinarian and to dispose of the carcass (on average about $2,000), or (2) sell or donate the horse privately under the condition that the horse is not sent to slaughter. No one sells a cat or dog they love. If you sell something it is no longer yours.
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If a horse owner wants to ensure that his or her horse does not go to a processing facility, he or she may (1) pay to have the horse euthanized by a veterinarian and to dispose of the carcass (on average about $2,000), or (2) sell or donate the horse privately under the condition that the horse is not sent to slaughter. No one sells a cat or dog they love. If you sell something it is no longer yours.
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6. There is no evidence of a stolen horse problem at the plants, so banning horse slaughter can't be a solution. The three horse slaughter plants document every horse that arrives, and very few, if any, stolen horses have been found. In Texas, as of 1997, a law enforcement official onsite inspects each and EVERY horse and checks it against reports of stolen horses. In Illinois, horses arriving are also checked against records of stolen horses. Why would someone steal a horse worth $3,000 or $800 to sell it for $300 to a processing plant?
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7. The captive bolt method of euthanasia produces instant brain death. The method meets specific humane requirements set forth by AVMA's Panel on Euthanasia, the U.S. Congress, the American Association of Equine Practitioners, and the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) Statement on Euthanasia because it results in instantaneous brain death. The plants are required by federal law to have USDA veterinarians on site supervising the euthanasia of each horse during the entire time the plant is in operation. The veterinarian is bound by law to issue citations, which are a matter of public record and can be reviewed by the public through USDA, if any evidence of inhumane treatment is witnessed.
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8. It’s interesting that you consider horsemeat a delicacy of sorts. Did you know that one of the most distinguishing pallets in Europe consuming horsemeat are infants? That’s right, horsemeat is a popular baby food because it is one of the most vitamin and protein rich meats available. I don’t know if you consider a 1-Euro jar of Heinz baby food gourmet, but maybe we just have different ideas of what constitutes “gourmet”? Go to Wikipedia and check out horsemeat consumption country by country. Most horsemeat is consumed in Asia where it serves as a common source of needed protein- far from the extreme image selected by Ms. Crumb
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9. USDA inspectors ensure the meat is free of contaminants (i.e. DRUGS) before it’s cleared for shipment. Where are you getting this information? It is ridiculous for you to think that doctors are “killing” their patients by encouraging them to eat lean meat that has been cleared as safe by not only the USDA, but the European Union as well. If meat is contaminated, it is not cleared for consumption. PERIOD. It’s called public safety. Just as if beef or poultry would not be cleared by USDA for YOU to eat in the U.S. if it were contaminated.
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10. Perhaps the representatives and senators are listening to their constituents that called who are horse owners who need the option of federally-supervised humane euthanasia for when their horse has reached the end of its life or is no longer useful.
Perhaps they listened to their constituents who are veterinarians and who know that horses would be worse off in the long run if this legislation were to pass because they’d be abandoned and starving, or would be sent over the border to an auction house in Mexico and slaughtered at facilities that are not subject to the humane slaughter laws and regulations as they are here in the States.
Perhaps they listened to the over 200 organizations of horse owners, lovers, and caretakers that are opposed to this legislation for a long list of reasons that are based in reality- not emotion. Ms. Crumb mentioned a website in her column, so I’d like to as well. It’s the website for the 200 organizations I just mentioned, and a place where I’ve found a lot of useful information- www.commonhorsesense.com
In addition to the misinformation that Ms. Crumb is proliferating, the Tucson Citizen should check facts before running columns based on lies. It’s a disservice to readers and to journalism in general.
Perhaps they listened to the over 200 organizations of horse owners, lovers, and caretakers that are opposed to this legislation for a long list of reasons that are based in reality- not emotion. Ms. Crumb mentioned a website in her column, so I’d like to as well. It’s the website for the 200 organizations I just mentioned, and a place where I’ve found a lot of useful information- www.commonhorsesense.com
In addition to the misinformation that Ms. Crumb is proliferating, the Tucson Citizen should check facts before running columns based on lies. It’s a disservice to readers and to journalism in general.
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Sharon alerted us to Senator Tim Johnson of South Dakota who suffered a stroke. Even though he voted no the Ensign/Byrd amendment, she wishes him well is taking some time to pray for his health to return -- leading by example!
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REACH OUT and TOUCH YOUR CONGRESSMAN
Another late night owl ambassador, Sharon decided to reach out, write, and personal touch Representative John Sweeney with the keyboard strokes and send button. Here is her message: Thank you Sharon!!!
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I just want to thank you personally from the bottom of my heart for all you have done to try and save our horses from slaughter. You are a hero to me and I am very saddened that you will no longer be in Congress to push this most important issue. I can not sleep at night, images of the brutal torture each of these horses has to go through, is making my physically sick. You were superb in the House, I cried as I watched you fight for our babies. Now the Senate refused to hear our voice, 73% American strong. We repeatedly called, faxed and emailed our Senators. We heard getting through your house was the hardest part of the journey. Instead, it was the only fair part of the journey. I am not a constituent, Mr. Sweeney, I live in New Jersey. But, I am proud of you and your help. With tears in my eyes, I have to say goodbye to the most concerned Congressman I have had to pleasure to watch in action on C-Span on Sept. 7, 2006. Just know, when you have to leave your office, that 73% of the American People will carry you and your efforts in our hearts for the rest of our lives. Take care of yourself, Mr. Congressman.
I just want to thank you personally from the bottom of my heart for all you have done to try and save our horses from slaughter. You are a hero to me and I am very saddened that you will no longer be in Congress to push this most important issue. I can not sleep at night, images of the brutal torture each of these horses has to go through, is making my physically sick. You were superb in the House, I cried as I watched you fight for our babies. Now the Senate refused to hear our voice, 73% American strong. We repeatedly called, faxed and emailed our Senators. We heard getting through your house was the hardest part of the journey. Instead, it was the only fair part of the journey. I am not a constituent, Mr. Sweeney, I live in New Jersey. But, I am proud of you and your help. With tears in my eyes, I have to say goodbye to the most concerned Congressman I have had to pleasure to watch in action on C-Span on Sept. 7, 2006. Just know, when you have to leave your office, that 73% of the American People will carry you and your efforts in our hearts for the rest of our lives. Take care of yourself, Mr. Congressman.
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FROM VIVIAN FARRELL: President of International Fund 4 Horses
Hello everyone. "It's the most wonderful time of the year ..." as the song says. We hope you are having a fabulous Holiday Season.
THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING WITH US
THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING WITH US
First of all, we would like to say a huge thank you for buying online with us this Christmas. Your shopping dollars have helped us raise three times the amount of revenue for our work than last year, and sales show no signs of slowing down. We are absolutely amazed, delighted and grateful for your support.
We have had a big increase in membership since Thanksgiving, so if you are new to the Fund and did not know we had a Gift Shop, please visit our online store . It is chockful of some really fun and elegant gift ideas for everyone on your list, horse lover or not!CAN YOU ALSO MAKE A DONATION TO CHARITIES?
We have had a big increase in membership since Thanksgiving, so if you are new to the Fund and did not know we had a Gift Shop, please visit our online store . It is chockful of some really fun and elegant gift ideas for everyone on your list, horse lover or not!CAN YOU ALSO MAKE A DONATION TO CHARITIES?
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Please remember Fund for Horses Charities when considering causes to support with your donation dollars this Holiday Season.Most parts of the country have had a mild winter so far, but we have still had numerous calls for help in getting hay, feed and other supplies, especially from smaller rescues and sanctuaries who devote so much of their time to caring for horses, and do not always have the time needed to fundraise. This is where we come in because of people like you who make up our large and generous membership, and help with kind donations when we ask. We are therefore asking that you please make a donation of any amount to Fund for Horses Charities and make a difference in the lives of horses in need. Fund for Horses Charities is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation, and your donations are 100% tax deductible. Please Note: Tax receipts will be mailed out no later than January 15, 2007, unless requested earlier.To make a donation, please visit this link . You can give toward general assistance or choose from a variety of unique and exciting equine welfare programs.
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CHRISTMAS CARDS: We have checked with the Post Office on delivery times and find that we are able to extend our Christmas card donation gift mailing date until December 16th. If you have already made your donation in honor of your friends, family and loved ones, the cards announcing your gift were mailed out yesterday, right on schedule.The cards are really lovely, and we still have a good supply left. They make a great last minute gift idea.In order to expedite your donation gift order, please telephone, fax or email us with your recipient list, and advise us on how you will be making your contribution. View card selection here.CONTACT INFORMATIONTelephone us toll free in the US and Canada at 1 877 583 7078; fax us toll free in the US and Canada at 1 866 409 2123; or email us at info@fund4horses.org . 2007 TO BEGIN WITH SOME FIREWORKS!
As we enter into our fourth year of advocating for horses in the new year, we have a surprise -- maybe even several surprises -- waiting for you that we believe will make 2007 a unique year in the advancement of the humane treatment of all American horses, so stay tuned!
Thank you again for your loyalty and hard work. We greatly appreciate you, now and all year long.INT'L FUND FOR HORSESFUND FOR HORSES CHARITIES
As we enter into our fourth year of advocating for horses in the new year, we have a surprise -- maybe even several surprises -- waiting for you that we believe will make 2007 a unique year in the advancement of the humane treatment of all American horses, so stay tuned!
Thank you again for your loyalty and hard work. We greatly appreciate you, now and all year long.INT'L FUND FOR HORSESFUND FOR HORSES CHARITIES
Also from VIVIAN FARRELL: Even though this article was written June 2004, it is still relevant: Please take a moment to review. Kindest Thanks from Sue P. our PA Ambassador!
Vivian Farrell,
re: Horse Welfare Coalition (Jun. 25, 2004)
The Horse Welfare Coalition
An Agribusiness Industry HoaxJune 25, 2004
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They call themselves The Horse Welfare Coalition and their website is called www.commonhorsesense.com. This is one of the worst cases of a "wolf in sheep's clothing" I have ever seen. There is nothing sensible, common or otherwise, about the Horse Welfare Coalition's attack on H.R.857.
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Their mission does not take the welfare of the horse into consideration in any possible, observable or provable respect.Horse slaughter exists for one reason and one reason only--to provide meat for export. It has nothing to do with the welfare of the animal, equine population control, elimination of abuse, or any of the other high-minded ideals they are attempting to rely on to support their true motives, to perpetuate the horse slaughter industry.History has shown time and again that abuse and horse theft increases in the areas where horse slaughter plants are in operation, and decreases when they are shut down. If there are indeed "too many horses," this is the result of callous overbreeding. Horse slaughter only adds to this problem, not minimizes it.
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A responsible and humane solution should be found by the breeders.Horse that are old, sick, diseased or lame should be euthanized. The scaremongering tactics the coalition continues to use ad nauseum that there will be old, sick, feeble horses standing around starving is one of their desperate attempt to fool the public into thinking they have America's horses' best interest at heart.
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The fact of the matter is that the vast majority of horses that go to slaughter are young, fat, fit, healthy horses in order to provide the high quality meat that the plants boast about.Why are these groups willing to put so much time, money and effort into keeping the horse slaughter industry alive in this country? To me the answer is and has been obvious for some time. Take a long hard look at the membership of this so-called "horse welfare" coalition. Incidentally, the owner and operator of this coalition's website is none other than attorney, John Linebarger, who represents the two horse slaughter plants in Texas, and whose name appears on the court documents filed to keep them open although they are operating illegally according to state law.
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It would be laughable if it weren't so damned tragic.
Vivian Farrell
PresidentThe Fund for Horses
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HOW TO ENLIGHTEN THE AVMA by Lorri Shaver December 14, 2006
I suggest we ask the good doctors to check out "humane" slaughter videos on www.hsus.org.
I also suggest we cite this stat: There has been no documented rise in abuse and neglect cases in California since the state banned horse slaughter for human consumption in 1998. There was no documented rise in Illinois during closure of the state's only horse slaughter plant in 2002 until its reopening in 2004. (www.saponline.org)
Responsible stewardship of companion animals must be advocated by WE, the stewards. If over-breeding is going on, it must be discontinued. And when our beloved companion animals become old or unwell, we have the responsibility to let them leave this world peacefully, not terrified.
The argument is also used that the cost of euthanasia is too "expensive" for many horse owners. I strongly dispute that. Again, from www.saponline.org : The average cost of having a horse humanely euthanized and safely disposing of the animal's carcass is approximately $225, while the average monthly cost of keeping a horse is approximately $200.
Similar issues would be dealt with by an owner of a large dog. I maintain that if you have the money to own a horse, horses, or other companion animals, you are ethically responsible financially and emotionally for the care of the animal, up to an including the peaceful termination of it's life when necessary.
From the AVMA web site:
Veterinarian's Oath (Adopted by the House of Delegates, July 1969, amended by the Executive Board, November 1999)
Being admitted to the profession of veterinary medicine, I solemnly swear to use my scientific knowledge and skills for the benefit of society through the protection of animal health, the relief of animal suffering, the conservation of animal resources, the promotion of public health, and the advancement of medical knowledge.
I will practice my profession conscientiously, with dignity, and in keeping with the principles of veterinary medical ethics.
I accept as a lifelong obligation the continual improvement of my professional knowledge and competence.
Position statements
Transportation and Processing of Horses
(Current as of June 2005)
The AVMA endorses the American Association of Equine Practitioners' policy on transportation and processing of horses, which reads as follows:
"The AAEP advocates the humane treatment of all horses and believes the equine industry and horse owners have a responsibility to provide humane care throughout the life of the horse. However, a small percentage of horses are ultimately unwanted because they are no longer serviceable, are infirm, dangerous, or their owners are no longer able to care for them.
The AAEP recognizes that the processing of unwanted horses is currently a necessary aspect of the equine industry, and provides a humane alternative to allowing the horse to continue a life of discomfort and pain, and possibly inadequate care or abandonment. The AAEP encourages, fosters and provides education regarding responsible ownership and management that will reduce the number of unwanted horses. In addition, the AAEP supports and commends the efforts of equine retirement facilities and adoption groups.
Regarding the care of horses destined for processing, the AAEP's position is that these horses should be:
I also suggest we cite this stat: There has been no documented rise in abuse and neglect cases in California since the state banned horse slaughter for human consumption in 1998. There was no documented rise in Illinois during closure of the state's only horse slaughter plant in 2002 until its reopening in 2004. (www.saponline.org)
Responsible stewardship of companion animals must be advocated by WE, the stewards. If over-breeding is going on, it must be discontinued. And when our beloved companion animals become old or unwell, we have the responsibility to let them leave this world peacefully, not terrified.
The argument is also used that the cost of euthanasia is too "expensive" for many horse owners. I strongly dispute that. Again, from www.saponline.org : The average cost of having a horse humanely euthanized and safely disposing of the animal's carcass is approximately $225, while the average monthly cost of keeping a horse is approximately $200.
Similar issues would be dealt with by an owner of a large dog. I maintain that if you have the money to own a horse, horses, or other companion animals, you are ethically responsible financially and emotionally for the care of the animal, up to an including the peaceful termination of it's life when necessary.
From the AVMA web site:
Veterinarian's Oath (Adopted by the House of Delegates, July 1969, amended by the Executive Board, November 1999)
Being admitted to the profession of veterinary medicine, I solemnly swear to use my scientific knowledge and skills for the benefit of society through the protection of animal health, the relief of animal suffering, the conservation of animal resources, the promotion of public health, and the advancement of medical knowledge.
I will practice my profession conscientiously, with dignity, and in keeping with the principles of veterinary medical ethics.
I accept as a lifelong obligation the continual improvement of my professional knowledge and competence.
Position statements
Transportation and Processing of Horses
(Current as of June 2005)
The AVMA endorses the American Association of Equine Practitioners' policy on transportation and processing of horses, which reads as follows:
"The AAEP advocates the humane treatment of all horses and believes the equine industry and horse owners have a responsibility to provide humane care throughout the life of the horse. However, a small percentage of horses are ultimately unwanted because they are no longer serviceable, are infirm, dangerous, or their owners are no longer able to care for them.
The AAEP recognizes that the processing of unwanted horses is currently a necessary aspect of the equine industry, and provides a humane alternative to allowing the horse to continue a life of discomfort and pain, and possibly inadequate care or abandonment. The AAEP encourages, fosters and provides education regarding responsible ownership and management that will reduce the number of unwanted horses. In addition, the AAEP supports and commends the efforts of equine retirement facilities and adoption groups.
Regarding the care of horses destined for processing, the AAEP's position is that these horses should be:
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Treated humanely and with dignity;
Transported to the production facility according to the guidelines approved by the United States Department of Agriculture in 2002;
Euthanized in a humane manner in accordance with the guidelines established by the American Veterinary Medical Association. [Report of the Panel on Euthanasia]
In addition, the AAEP recognizes that the human consumption of horsemeat is a cultural and personal issue and does not fall within the purview of the association, whose mission is the care of the health and welfare of the horse throughout its life."
Legislation to Address the Issue of Unwanted/Retired Horses
The AVMA has been actively pursuing defeat of H.R. 503/S. 1915, the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act and any related amendments to the Agriculture Appropriations bill. Amendments prohibiting funding for inspection of horses slaughtered for human consumption have passed overwhelmingly on the FY 2006 House and Senate Agriculture Appropriation's bills. If Congress decides that horses and other equids are prohibited from being processed for human consumption, it is estimated that each year an additional 65,000-100,000 unwanted U.S. horses would need to find an alternative method of care, or disposal if the horse is euthanized. A congressional ban on slaughter of horses will only lead to a crisis situation if the ramifications of such actions are not addressed. The AVMA is actively pursuing legislation that will deal with these ramifications. This legislation is necessary to insure the humane care and treatment of these unwanted horses, and would be developed with input from the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP). The legislation would include the following: Euthanasia concerns; standards for horse retirement centers; proper disposal of healthy animal carcasses; proper disposal of diseased animal carcasses; education for the proper care of horses and disposition options. For additional information about this initiative, please contact Dr. Mark Lutschaunig at (800) 321-1473, ext. 3205, http://us.f842.mail.yahoo.com/ym/Compose?To=mlutschaunig@avma.org.
Transported to the production facility according to the guidelines approved by the United States Department of Agriculture in 2002;
Euthanized in a humane manner in accordance with the guidelines established by the American Veterinary Medical Association. [Report of the Panel on Euthanasia]
In addition, the AAEP recognizes that the human consumption of horsemeat is a cultural and personal issue and does not fall within the purview of the association, whose mission is the care of the health and welfare of the horse throughout its life."
Legislation to Address the Issue of Unwanted/Retired Horses
The AVMA has been actively pursuing defeat of H.R. 503/S. 1915, the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act and any related amendments to the Agriculture Appropriations bill. Amendments prohibiting funding for inspection of horses slaughtered for human consumption have passed overwhelmingly on the FY 2006 House and Senate Agriculture Appropriation's bills. If Congress decides that horses and other equids are prohibited from being processed for human consumption, it is estimated that each year an additional 65,000-100,000 unwanted U.S. horses would need to find an alternative method of care, or disposal if the horse is euthanized. A congressional ban on slaughter of horses will only lead to a crisis situation if the ramifications of such actions are not addressed. The AVMA is actively pursuing legislation that will deal with these ramifications. This legislation is necessary to insure the humane care and treatment of these unwanted horses, and would be developed with input from the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP). The legislation would include the following: Euthanasia concerns; standards for horse retirement centers; proper disposal of healthy animal carcasses; proper disposal of diseased animal carcasses; education for the proper care of horses and disposition options. For additional information about this initiative, please contact Dr. Mark Lutschaunig at (800) 321-1473, ext. 3205, http://us.f842.mail.yahoo.com/ym/Compose?To=mlutschaunig@avma.org.
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THE HORSE THAT WOULD NOT QUIT
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Healing Along Side Barbaro With A Twist
(Commentary by CLN Shaw, December 14, 2006)
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No stranger to fame, heroic Barbaro continues to never give up and never give in. Even in the bleakest of moments during that fateful day at Preakness, Barbaro was ready to move ahead unaware of his broken pastern bone, probably do the excessive amounts of adrenaline still coursing full speed ahead through his horse veins. With the biggest victory since 1946 when Triple Crown winner Assault took horseracing fans by storm, Barbaro was a sure odds favorite for Baltimore's Preakness Stakes (Pimlico) on May 20, 2006.
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With shattered pastern bone and injured fetlock, his right leg would begin a marathon event which his fans, friends, and Ambassadors would follow closely over the next 6 months. He is the first racing horse to survive five surgeries, seven leg casts, 29 screws, two titanium plates, and life-threatening laminitis. His courageous, fighting spirit has been a miraculous inspiration to hundreds of thousands who keep up with this very special horse as he heals.
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Some say he is just a horse, but to his fans he is so much more. People undergoing their own physical traumas in life truly believe that "If Barbaro can do, then so can I," especially when healing from serious surgeries requiring lengthy recoveries and rehabilitation therapies.
"As he heals, so do we," according to several fans recovering from bone surgeries. Our family is part of that healing group recovering from severely broken bones.
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Despite the likelihood of never racing again, his heroic tenacity as a fighter may still prove he is valuable as a stud according to Time Magazine. But more importantly, he is and always will be a true companion and friend to Gretchen and Roy Jackson, Michael Matz, Peter Brette, Edgar Prado, Fans of Barbaro, and perhaps moreso to Dr. Dean Richardson and Alex Brown. It takes a team to continue his healing but you cannot knock the miraculous power of prayer either.
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Recently, Time Magazine held its annual 2006 best photos and Barbaro being moved from the special postsurgical recovery pool was the photo selected. University of Pennsylvania photographer, Sabina Pierce took the famous photo of Barbaro being hoisted by special ropes and pullies guided by Dr. Richardson and other Medical Team Barbaro ICU staff at George D. Widener Hospital for Large Animals.
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What is even stranger to this story is that two days prior, the photo placed at number 19. I voted as many others did for this photo not thinking much more about it. Yesterday, upon arrival of a very special Barbaro Kentucky Derby momento, I proceed to open my mailbox at the post office. The key to get the item (with proceeds going to The Barbaro Fund ) was in Box number 19. How strange is that? The momento was a"Barbaro Hat with Roses" which really rocks like Barbaro but the latter is more awesome."
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To Barbaro, we say"Don't you quit, not our watch from where we sit." (quote from first message posted to New Bolton Center's messages for Barbaro).
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Believe In God,
Believe In Miracles,
Believe In Barbaro (his healing and fighter's spirit)
Believe in Mike Rea
Just Believe!!!
Never Give Up and Never Give In
Heal Leg Heal
Grow Hoof Grow
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GREAT NEWS:
The Wallowa County Chieftain's editor has agreed to keep Sharon's November 30th letter "about the Senate and its failure to listen after repeated faxes, emails, and calls"open and running for comments when the 110th Congress reconvenes January 4, 2007. After reading the article and new comments posted below, click on title to go to the comments section to post.
"Let's make our voices heard for the new Congress! We will win in 2007!" -Sharon C., Barbaro's NJ Ambassador.
Thanks Sharon!!
home : opinions : OPINIONS
Thursday, December 14, 2006
11/30/2006 10:16:00 AM
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Letter:
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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.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.Worst yet, is the tax returns I have from one slaugherhouse. $12 million dollar income and $5 in taxes to our U.S.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. 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.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.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? 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.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
Posted: Thursday, December 14, 2006Article comment by: Daryl SmoliakThe horse slaughter issue is a very sensitive one for me. I campaigned hard to see the bill introduced to the senate floor and urged elected officials to vote yes! Am I hurt because the bill was not introduced? Absolutely! But my disgust goes beyond the senate's lack of action on this isssue. Countless speeches praising each other, patting themselves on the back and incredibly long self-eulogies from the departing members telling us about their families, where they grew up, etc. Then they leave for home with 3 weeks left in the year. They told us they had little time for all the business to be complete this session so many bills would not be introduced.This congress worked the shortest amount of time since the congress of 1948. The current landscape of our senate is a disgrace to hard working Americans. Daryl Smoliak
Reader Comments
Posted: Thursday, December 14, 2006Article comment by: Daryl SmoliakThe horse slaughter issue is a very sensitive one for me. I campaigned hard to see the bill introduced to the senate floor and urged elected officials to vote yes! Am I hurt because the bill was not introduced? Absolutely! But my disgust goes beyond the senate's lack of action on this isssue. Countless speeches praising each other, patting themselves on the back and incredibly long self-eulogies from the departing members telling us about their families, where they grew up, etc. Then they leave for home with 3 weeks left in the year. They told us they had little time for all the business to be complete this session so many bills would not be introduced.This congress worked the shortest amount of time since the congress of 1948. The current landscape of our senate is a disgrace to hard working Americans. Daryl Smoliak
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Posted: Monday, December 11, 2006Article comment by: Sharon Crumb
We lost a bitter battle to save American horses this year. Our senate decided not to listen to the concerns of their constituents and our horses are paying the price. This needs to stop! Congress is supposed to be our voice. Our voice rang loud and clear with the House of Representatives 263-146 vote. The easier part was to get through the senate and that turned out to be the bill's demise. WHY? When the senate saw the vote in the house, along with our repeatedly daily phone calls and faxes to the senators, that alone should have been enough to vote. Our Political System failed us Americans and are bending over backwards to make European countries rich off of our horses.Our horses are very desired overseas because they are well taken care of, yet toxins in each of these horses are being overlooked just to make a buck.No American horse should be slaughtered for food, it is unsafe and it is wrong.Please Senate, stand up and correct your very big mistake and get a bill out for a vote to stop the slaughter an transport of our horses.WE HAVE SPOKEN, JUST LOOK AT ALL THE PHONE CALLS, EMAILS AND FAXES IN YOUR OFFICE, stop shutting our voices out, it's not fair, it un-American!
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Posted: Tuesday, December 05, 2006Article comment by: Debra Lopez
In one word - Horse Slaughter is "UNAMERICAN!"For those of you who don't know, S. 1915, the sister bill of HR 503- is waiting to be considered on the Senate floor. While our bill awaits to be called for a vote, the slaughter houses are ACCELERATING the slaughter of our American Horses! Proslaughter pressure on legislators has greatly increased in an attempt to wane our ranks of supporters in the Senate and defeat the bill, which can be fatal due to the tight Senate schedule. We need a 'CALL TO ACTION' for ALL AMERICANS TO STAND UP, OPEN THEIR EYES AND DO THEIR PART IN HELPING TO STOP OUR HORSES FROM ENDING UP ON FOREIGN DINNER TABLES. Please, send your letters, make your calls, fax your senators and ALL MEDIA and tell them we're NOT going to take this anymore. Our American dollars pay our government to make ethical, legal and wise decisions. My god, did they even work this year? PLEASE, DON'T TURN AWAY BECAUSE THE THOUGHT OF OUR HORSES BEING SLAUGHTERED IT IS TOO TOUGH TO BARE...MAKE THE CALL NOW AND URGE YOUR SENATORS TO BRING S.1915 UP FOR A VOTE AS DEMANDED BY THE MAJORITY OF AMERICANS. Facts About Horse Slaughter 1)There are only three slaughterhouses left in the U.S. - two in Texas, and one in Illinois.2) All three slaughterhouses are owned by a Belgian company.3) These three slaughterhouses kill more than 100,000 horses per year - 100% of the horsemeatis sent to Europe and Japan for fine dining.4) Horsemeat is not sold in the U.S. In fact, in some states it is illegal to sell horsemeat for human consumption.5) These three slaughterhouses are a net loss for the U.S.6) The Belgian owners operate these slaughterhouses at a loss to avoid paying taxes in the U.S. They ship all the horsemeat to Europe and Japan, and make their profits abroad.7) These three slaughterhouses require more that $5 million per year in oversight from the USDA - even though 100% of the horsemeat is sent to Europe and Japan.8)Bragging, "from the stable to the table in four days," healthy horses are stolen and butchered within hours. Horse theft in California dropped 34% when that state banned horse slaughter.9)Nearly all of the horses arriving at these kill plants are in good to excellent condition.
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SENATOR VOICE THEIR CONCERNS
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Comments on the two articles below are WELCOME says Sharon so please do.
Published: December 13, 2006 09:58 am
• Click to discuss this story with other readers on our forums.
• Click to discuss this story with other readers on our forums.
Review second article at CAPITAL JOURNAL's Senator Voices Concerns regarding South Dakota's Annual Cattlemen's Association Convention and Trade Show. Senator John Thune's comments are quite revealing...read more at the link highlighted.
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Well, it seems another news editor stirred up a "Hornet's Nest" when Americans responded to his editorial in the McAlester News-Capital in late November 2006.
Because it is no longer available, it is printed here in its entirety with special thanks to Susan P., our Barbaro's PA Ambassador. Because of several correspondences, she was able to help Doug change his tune a bit.
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HORSES AND HORNET's NESTS
by Doug Russell (Southeast Oklahoma)
Talk about a hornet's nest; saying that you don't feel Congress should impose further impediments on individual Americans will sure stir one up.
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At least that's the way it is if you point out certain absurdities by being absurd yourself. Especially when it comes to that good ol' American pal, the horse.
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I've been called quite a few things in my time, but never so much so quickly as since I wrote about the House of Representatives passing a bill to outlaw the slaughter of horses. I tried to point out that Congress, in its infinite wisdom, was busy with many bills that affect relatively few people while seemingly ignoring (in my opinion) much larger issues.
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In other words, Congress was trying to pass laws based on the wants and needs of a vocal relative few rather than waste its precious time doing something a little more constructive -- like affordable healthcare for all. THAT folks, is what the column was about, for thosewho didn't get it; and using examples of foods to be outlawed was an absurd way of pointing out the absurdity of the whole situation. Most folks around here seemed to understand that but whew, some of the people from other places sure didn't.
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So here's what the horse issue is about: 'a bill to amend the Horse Protection Act to prohibit the shipping, transporting, moving, delivering, receiving, possessing, purchasing, selling, or donation of horses or other equines to be slaughtered for human consumption, and for other purposes." That's it. Those aren't my quotes; they're from the Library of Congress.
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Some oppose the bill for economic reasons. Those are generally people who round up wild horses and ship them to packing plants or people who have some vested interest in seeing horse slaughter continue.
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And there are a few, like me, who feel the government has larger issues to worry about. But apparently, others don't feel the same way.
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That said, the proponents of the bill have plenty to say which should be taken into account. For instance, the Burns Amendment passed into law in 2004 allows wild horses to be sold at auction without limitation. The amendment which was tucked into an appropriations bill and became law without ever having a public airing or debate, allows people to remove horses from public lands and sell them.
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Horse enthusiasts say some of the wild horses end up at slaughterhouses, and that's a distinct possibility. It's a definitive fact that there are only three slaughterhouses currently in the United States that process horsemeat for human consumption. All three of those are owned by foreign companies and the meat is shipped overseas to countries for human consumption. All three of those are owned by foreign companies and the meat is shipped overseas to countries such as France or Belgium.
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Proponents of the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act offer a variety of reasons the act should be put into effect.
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Among them is a statement that the horse slaughter industry receives $5 million in government subsidies each year and another statement about one particular plant in Texas that had gross profits of $12 million, yet paid only $5.00 in taxes.
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I have no doubt that the industry gets government subsidies and believe the statement about taxes may be true. Those things alone make me want to scream "Stop!" at the idea of slaughtering horses.
But, many of the other arguments advocates use are not as convincing, since they appear to be based entirely on a sentimental attachment to equines as a whole.
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Proponents of the bill describe the scene in slaughterhouses, talk about horses being crowded into pens to await their fates, or crammed like sardines into trucks that are shipped to the packing plant. They talk about some horses not being instantly killed, or knowing that death is coming, and I sure can't deny that possibility, since I've never been to a horse slaughter plant. But, I've been to packing plants where beef and pork are processed and, at least in the ones I saw, those animals don't have it any better than the horses are said to.
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(By the way, I did watch some of the films you folks recommended.)
There's not enough room to go into it all here, so I'll close with this thought. Am I for the idea of slaughtering horses, especially for commercial purposes? Hardly. But neither am I for the idea of Congress making it illegal for an individual horseowner to do something that humans have been doing that humans have been doing for thousands of years. And for those who don't think that's the case, re-read the quoted portion above -- it doesn't single out ranchers, big business or the Bureau of Land Management. It applies to us all."
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IDEA REMINDERS:
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Other ideas from Nancy and Sharon: For every dollar bill type you have, write directly on it "Stop Horse Slaughter and visit www.hsus.org." I have extented that to paying my bills and writing on my checks the same thing. Special stamps "Protect America's Horses" are also available via Cafepress.com or call 1-877-809-1659. It takes about 1 week to custom print and add 5 - 7 business days for delivery. Prices vary, but set of 20 stamps at 39 cents runs $18.99 plus H&S. Visit the International Fund for Horses. And when mine arrive, they are going on the envelopes so even more people see the message.
Sharon's idea to the Humane Society of the United States was to see if our Federal Tax returns could have a box to check off Saving our Horses by donating $1.00. Thinking is what if this money could help prevent killer buyers from taking innocent horses to their doom?
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WHAT HORSES MEAN TO US
Karen Holverson shares: (December 13, 2006)
..."a few reasons why horses mean so much to me !"
Proxy, Sonny Boy, Breeze,YANKEE BAY, Pony,Stormy, Flicka, The Black Stallion,Trigger, Buttermilk, Misty of Chincoteaque, The Princess Stallion, Champion, Silver, Barbaro, Secretariat, Personal Ensign, Sea Biscuit, Seattle Slew, Ferdinand, Man of War, Smarty Jones, Lost in the FOG, Brother Derek, The Tin Man, Ruffian and many many more !!
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Many a fighting man had one or more favorite mounts, entitled to bountiful corn and fodder, careful grooming, and a name of its own. One clause in the surrender terms at Appomattox in 1865 puzzled some people: every Confederate cavalryman was entitled to take his horse home with him. This provision, insisted on by Lee, was accepted by Grant when he was told that once they returned to civilian life, former soldiers wouldn't be able to plant spring crops without their war horses.
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The following are some of the Confederates and the horses they rode into battle and into history:
The following are some of the Confederates and the horses they rode into battle and into history:
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Belle Boyd - Fleeter - was ridden by this famous Confederate spy.
Belle Boyd - Fleeter - was ridden by this famous Confederate spy.
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Maj. Gen. William B. Bate - Black Hawk - was ridden by this general.
Maj. Gen. William B. Bate - Black Hawk - was ridden by this general.
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Maj. Gen. Patrick R. Cleburne - Dixie- this battle steed was killed at Perryville while being ridden by General Cleburne
Maj. Gen. Patrick R. Cleburne - Dixie- this battle steed was killed at Perryville while being ridden by General Cleburne
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Lt. Gen. Richard S. Ewell - Rifle - a much cherished steed.
Lt. Gen. Richard S. Ewell - Rifle - a much cherished steed.
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Nathan Bedford Forrest - King Philip - possibly the favorite horse of Forrest, who also owned and rode Roderick and Highlander.
Nathan Bedford Forrest - King Philip - possibly the favorite horse of Forrest, who also owned and rode Roderick and Highlander.
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Capt. W I. Rasin.- Beauregard - who survived until 1883, was ridden to Appomattox by Rasin.
Capt. W I. Rasin.- Beauregard - who survived until 1883, was ridden to Appomattox by Rasin.
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Stonewall Jackson - Old Sorrel - formerly a Union officer's mount, was acquired by Jackson at Harpers Ferry when she was about eleven years old. Because the mare was so small that Jackson's feet nearly dragged the ground, she was often known as Little Sorrel. Little Sorrel Lane in Somers, Connecticut, commemorates the animal Jackson was riding when he was mortally wounded.
Stonewall Jackson - Old Sorrel - formerly a Union officer's mount, was acquired by Jackson at Harpers Ferry when she was about eleven years old. Because the mare was so small that Jackson's feet nearly dragged the ground, she was often known as Little Sorrel. Little Sorrel Lane in Somers, Connecticut, commemorates the animal Jackson was riding when he was mortally wounded.
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Brig. Gen. Adam R. Johnson - Joe Smith - was ridden by the general.
Gen. Albert S. Johnston - Fire-eater - a splendid bay Thoroughbred ridden by Johnston when he was killed at Shiloh.
Brig. Gen. Adam R. Johnson - Joe Smith - was ridden by the general.
Gen. Albert S. Johnston - Fire-eater - a splendid bay Thoroughbred ridden by Johnston when he was killed at Shiloh.
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Maj. Gen. Fitzhugh Lee - Nellie Gray - this mare was numbered among the dead at Opequon.
Maj. Gen. Fitzhugh Lee - Nellie Gray - this mare was numbered among the dead at Opequon.
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Gen. Robert E. Lee - Traveller - by all odds this best-known horse of the war was Lee's favorite. Earlier he owned and rode Richmond, Brown-Roan, Lucy Long, and Ajax. Traveller is the purported author of a ghost-written volume that depicts the Civil War as seen through equine eyes.
Gen. Robert E. Lee - Traveller - by all odds this best-known horse of the war was Lee's favorite. Earlier he owned and rode Richmond, Brown-Roan, Lucy Long, and Ajax. Traveller is the purported author of a ghost-written volume that depicts the Civil War as seen through equine eyes.
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Col. E G. Skinner - Old Fox - ridden by this Col of the First Virginia Infantry.
Maj. Gen. Jeb Stuart - Virginia - credited with having prevented the capture of by jumping an enormous ditch. In addition to the mare, Stuart frequently rode Highfly.
Col. E G. Skinner - Old Fox - ridden by this Col of the First Virginia Infantry.
Maj. Gen. Jeb Stuart - Virginia - credited with having prevented the capture of by jumping an enormous ditch. In addition to the mare, Stuart frequently rode Highfly.
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M. Jeff Thompson - Sardanapalus - favorite mount of this partisan of Missouri.
Union officers were as dependent on their horses as were their opponents. Had neither side been provided with mounts, the war might have fizzled out in about ninety days. The following is the Union side and the horses that helped them make history.
M. Jeff Thompson - Sardanapalus - favorite mount of this partisan of Missouri.
Union officers were as dependent on their horses as were their opponents. Had neither side been provided with mounts, the war might have fizzled out in about ninety days. The following is the Union side and the horses that helped them make history.
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"Mother" Bickerdyke - Old Whitey - the usual mount of Bickerdyke, who was among the most famous of female nurses.
"Mother" Bickerdyke - Old Whitey - the usual mount of Bickerdyke, who was among the most famous of female nurses.
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Maj. Gen. Benjamin E Butler - Almond Eye - the steed ridden by Benjamin "The Beast".
Maj. Gen. Benjamin E Butler - Almond Eye - the steed ridden by Benjamin "The Beast".
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Brig. Gen. Kenner Garrard - Nellie - The favorite mare of the general.
Brig. Gen. Kenner Garrard - Nellie - The favorite mare of the general.
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Lt. Gen. U. S. Grant - Cincinnati - presented to Grant in 1864 and immediately identified as his favorite horse. When Colonel Grant rode into Springfield, Illinois, in 1861, he was astride a white horse named Methuselah. Grant first rode into battle on the back of Rondy and during the war also used Fox, Jack, Jeff Davis, and Kangaroo.
Lt. Gen. U. S. Grant - Cincinnati - presented to Grant in 1864 and immediately identified as his favorite horse. When Colonel Grant rode into Springfield, Illinois, in 1861, he was astride a white horse named Methuselah. Grant first rode into battle on the back of Rondy and during the war also used Fox, Jack, Jeff Davis, and Kangaroo.
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Maj. Gen. Joseph Hooker - Lookout - acquired at Chattanooga and named for a battle of that campaign, stood seventeen hands high and was cherished by Hooker.
Maj. Gen. Joseph Hooker - Lookout - acquired at Chattanooga and named for a battle of that campaign, stood seventeen hands high and was cherished by Hooker.
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Maj. Gen. Philip Kearny - Moscow - a white horse used in battle by Kearny against the advice of his colleagues may have been his favorite. Because the big horse was an inviting target, Kearny switched to a bay named Decatur and then to Bayard, whose color was light brown.
Maj. Gen. Philip Kearny - Moscow - a white horse used in battle by Kearny against the advice of his colleagues may have been his favorite. Because the big horse was an inviting target, Kearny switched to a bay named Decatur and then to Bayard, whose color was light brown.
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Maj. Gen. John A. Logan - Slasher - ridden into battle by Logan and depicted by an artist as dashing along a line of battle with all four feet off the ground.
Col. John McArthur - Boomerang - named for his tendency to move backward, was owned by this Col. of the Twelfth Illinois Regiment.
Maj. Gen. John A. Logan - Slasher - ridden into battle by Logan and depicted by an artist as dashing along a line of battle with all four feet off the ground.
Col. John McArthur - Boomerang - named for his tendency to move backward, was owned by this Col. of the Twelfth Illinois Regiment.
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Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan - Kentuck - may have been the favorite mount of McClellan. In addition, McClellan rode a black horse named Bums.
Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan - Kentuck - may have been the favorite mount of McClellan. In addition, McClellan rode a black horse named Bums.
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Brig. Gen. George G. Meade - Baldy - wounded at First Bull Run and at Antietam, this horse later took Meade to Gettysburg and a promotion. Philadelphia's Old Baldy Civil War Round Table helps to commemorate the memory of the horse.Col. Philip Sheridan - Aldebaron - an early mount of Sheridan, gave way to a gelding named Rienzi. After taking him on his famous ride to Winchester, the name of the animal was changed to that of the town. Winchester (or Rienzi) was so revered that when he died, his stuffed body was presented to the Smithsonian Institution.
Brig. Gen. George G. Meade - Baldy - wounded at First Bull Run and at Antietam, this horse later took Meade to Gettysburg and a promotion. Philadelphia's Old Baldy Civil War Round Table helps to commemorate the memory of the horse.Col. Philip Sheridan - Aldebaron - an early mount of Sheridan, gave way to a gelding named Rienzi. After taking him on his famous ride to Winchester, the name of the animal was changed to that of the town. Winchester (or Rienzi) was so revered that when he died, his stuffed body was presented to the Smithsonian Institution.
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William T. Sherman - Lexington - possibly the favorite of Sherman, who also rode Dolly and Sam.
William T. Sherman - Lexington - possibly the favorite of Sherman, who also rode Dolly and Sam.
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Maj. Gen. George Thomas - Billy - named for Sherman, this was the bay war horse of Thomas.Source: "Civil War Curiosities" by Webb Garrison
This Page last updated 02/16/02
Life goes on...we change ...we learn....we never stop the learning and changing 'til we are in the ground.. At times I can be found to be very emotional.....That is because I feel things so intensely.
Maj. Gen. George Thomas - Billy - named for Sherman, this was the bay war horse of Thomas.Source: "Civil War Curiosities" by Webb Garrison
This Page last updated 02/16/02
Life goes on...we change ...we learn....we never stop the learning and changing 'til we are in the ground.. At times I can be found to be very emotional.....That is because I feel things so intensely.
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I thought that when a racehorse broke down, I was the only person griefstricken about it, that no one else cared. There was never a follow up to find out what happened.
I thought that when a racehorse broke down, I was the only person griefstricken about it, that no one else cared. There was never a follow up to find out what happened.
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..... I didn't think horses were still slaughtered in this country. When I realized that such a barbaric thing was still going on, I acted. http://www.marynash.org/
..... I didn't think horses were still slaughtered in this country. When I realized that such a barbaric thing was still going on, I acted. http://www.marynash.org/
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.....I had never contacted, called, emailed, etc a senator. Ever.
I never wrote Letters to the Editor's of any papers let alone The Barbaro News......
.....I had never contacted, called, emailed, etc a senator. Ever.
I never wrote Letters to the Editor's of any papers let alone The Barbaro News......
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I had never heard of Premarin mares or the side effect ot Premarin LOTS and LOTS of foals.....
I had never heard of Premarin mares or the side effect ot Premarin LOTS and LOTS of foals.....
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.....I never realized there were so many people who feel like I do about not just horses, but animals in general.
.....I never realized there were so many people who feel like I do about not just horses, but animals in general.
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......That so many of us cherish the history of horses in this country. They ARE part of our history. Without them, where would we be now?
......That so many of us cherish the history of horses in this country. They ARE part of our history. Without them, where would we be now?
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...... I would never have met all the wonderful people on these boards. I have learned so much about horses in general, racing in particular, and how I, just one person, can make a difference.
...... I would never have met all the wonderful people on these boards. I have learned so much about horses in general, racing in particular, and how I, just one person, can make a difference.
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Thankyou, Alex, Tim Woolley, Barbaro, the Jacksons, Kennett Florist, and others too numerous to mention.
Merry Christmas
Yes all that and more...before seeing Edgar Prado's(Barbaro's jockey when he broke down at the Preakness) grief-stricken face on the front page of the sports section the day after the Preakness,
I never knew, never believed for *one moment*, that people involved in racing actually *cared* about the horses. Granted, some don't...
Thankyou, Alex, Tim Woolley, Barbaro, the Jacksons, Kennett Florist, and others too numerous to mention.
Merry Christmas
Yes all that and more...before seeing Edgar Prado's(Barbaro's jockey when he broke down at the Preakness) grief-stricken face on the front page of the sports section the day after the Preakness,
I never knew, never believed for *one moment*, that people involved in racing actually *cared* about the horses. Granted, some don't...
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But it was that moment of, "Wait...maybe I'm wrong..." that led me to read more about Barbaro, that eventually led me to this site and the realization, "Yee-haw! I've been wrong a lot of the time!" Sometimes it's so GOOD to be wrong!
And of course, that led to learning about other things, things like track conditions, Premarin mares, slaughterhouses...things my gentle, sensitive nature didn't want to know about but needed to learn.
But it was that moment of, "Wait...maybe I'm wrong..." that led me to read more about Barbaro, that eventually led me to this site and the realization, "Yee-haw! I've been wrong a lot of the time!" Sometimes it's so GOOD to be wrong!
And of course, that led to learning about other things, things like track conditions, Premarin mares, slaughterhouses...things my gentle, sensitive nature didn't want to know about but needed to learn.
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Things like the grace, compassion, patience, love and thoughtfulness of Team Barbaro and Alex Brown and probably more people than I can even imagine to mention that I *did* want to know about and desperately needed to be exposed to at this time in my life.
____________________WHAT OUR HORSES TEACH US (series)
On Georgia Fischel views as breeder, rider, judge, foxhunter, Virginia Association board member: (re: Why We Are Thankful for Horses by Terri Haynie, November 2006 issue Virginia Horse)
Commentary by CLN Shaw December 14, 2006
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Georgia has always loved horses who touched her heart as a young child riding western style in Long Beach, California. Horses make her heart literally sing.
Touching her very soul, horses were never really a part of her family for generations like other families of horsemen. She just knows the connection exists always. What have these horses done? "Horses have always sustained me through my life's ups and downs. They have pulled me to keep me going when life threw curve-balls at me. And, they make me feel free and whole when I am around them. My horses give me such great joy and I would not be the person I am today without each of them who has passed my way. I am grateful for what they have taught me and how they enrich my life...there is always something to learn. And, I have met incredible people throughout the horse industry. I have learned and accomplished things I never would have dreamed of because of my love for these animals.
Background: Georgia has been involved in Virginia's hunter industry for over 30 years. She's served as an r-rated Hunter/Hunter Equitation Judge and on the Board of VHSA appointed by Governors Allen and Gilmore as well as the Virginia Equine Center Foundation Board at the Virginia Horse Center. Plus, she was elected to as their chairman for seven years in addition to being named Honorary Secretary to the Casaova Hunt. Presently, she owns a Thoroughbred Trakehner cross for riding daily cross-country or lessons.
SPECIAL WORDS FROM Candy Rickey (in honor of Mike Rea). Candy is wheelchair bound due to a riding accident but she still loves riding horses and was riding at tleast 4 times weekly prior.
Why do I love horses? "...horse do not judge or have an opinion about people until they have been around you and take the time to figure you out; people do not normally do that. You can discipline horses the right way for mistakes made and they will listen, unlike people who normally will not. I happen to be a disabled person who can't walk, but communicating with horses improves my will to want to get better. By communicating, I mean petting, grooming, hand feeding, and much more. By riding them, they have strongly improved my balance, strength, and coordination. A person could not have improved my balance the way riding a horse has -- even therapists agree that riding a horse is great and improves many things."
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SPECIAL BARBARO POETRY
Bobby's Heart For A Cool Man
(for everyone, by C Louise, Dec 6, 2006)
"Cool Man" and his noble steed!!!
Heaven is a place on earth to us indeed.
Opened up to find when we went online.
Many emails racing towards a gold mine.
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Like the first noel, came Angel Gabriel's news.
Clearing up some very troublesome blues.
Now a small change of heart like Bobby's too.
Ladies and Gents know this is life's first clue.
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O Holy Night, may joy continue to flow,
Where this will lead is for God to know.
Yahoo, is like thousands of Thank yous strong.
"Life is too short"- springs anew in Bobby's song.
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Celebrating miracles one day at a time.
Giving chances lost but finding bells chime
Caring to share so miscommunication is gone.
Gentleman's Respect is what is moving us on.
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May we grow up showing kindness to each other.
"Starts with me," speaks heartily sister to brother.
So we offer this simple prayer to you and all,
Give Bobby's love is God's heavenly Arabian call.
1 comment:
AWESOME CAROLE!!!!! VERY VERY AWESOME!!!!
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