Hello fellow Barbaro Alumni,

A sad start to new week following the Derby.

I have come to pay my respects to Eight Belles with heart felt love and sorrow.

To Chelokee,a prayer for healing and successful surgery following his injury.

And to our new Derby Champion Big Brown luck in his journey to the Triple Crown. His work is not over and may his owners have his welfare in mind.

Thanks Alex for this forum to continue in Barbaro's name.

Good Morning Everyone

What a horrid weekend of racing.

Barbaro and Eight Belles are running together with the rest of the herd with the wind in their mane with no more pain.

Barbaro is watching over Chelokee.

Have a wonderful day!

Good morning, fellow Fans.

I had to stay away from posting yesterday as I was just too sad. All I will say is Rest in peace, beautiful Eight Belles.

And a pray for successful, stress and pain-free surgery for Chelokee.

Marg
Proud Fan of Barbaro forever

May God watch over you and guide the surgeons, sweet Chelokee, and may your recovery be pain-free and successful. May Barbaro gallop on in Heaven with all of our sweet angels, those who died tragically (Eight Belles, Go for Wand, Pine Island, Ruffian), those stolen too soon though after retirement (Secretariat, Forego, Riva Ridge) and those who have earned their place in Heaven after a long career (Terlingua, John Henry). Our love goes with you.

Please go to this thread on the DB if you would like to contribute to a gift basket for ">
Chelokee
Thanks!
jan

Try again..........

Chelokee
jan

For Chelokee...

Navajo Healing Chant

An offering I make.
Restore my feet for me.
Restore my legs for me.
Restore my body for me.
Restore my mind for me.
Restore my voice for me.
This very day take out your spell for me.
Happily I recover.
Happily my interior becomes cool.
Happily I go forth.
My interior feeling cool, may I walk.
No longer sore, may I walk.
Impervious to pain, may I walk.
With lively feelings may I walk.
As it used to be long ago, may I walk.
Happily may I walk.
Happily, with abundant dark clouds, may I walk.
Happily, with abundant showers, may I walk.
Happily, with abundant plants, may I walk.
Happily, on a trail of pollen, may I walk.
Happily may I walk.
Being as it used to be long ago, may I walk.
May it be beautiful before me.
May it be beautiful behind me.
May it be beautiful below me.
May it be beautiful above me.
May it be beautiful all around me.
In beauty it is finished.
In beauty it is finished.

Good morning, FsOB! May Chelokee's surgery be successful. If anyone has an address to which we might forward a note to Michael Matz, could you please allow it to be posted here Alex?

Also, any information as to how one might send a sympathy note to Larry Jones would be greatly appreciated. May each of you have a safe and productive day. Peace at this sad time, RMH

#### Amen to your prayer for Chelokee, Harriette. ####

Morning skritches to the BBH, Sir JH, Gorgeous George, Belle, and the rest of the stellar gang in Equine Heaven...

On their behalf, down here - Please note the time sensitivity:

MORNING POST,SHELLEYA, DEBRA, WI/AAHS

STRATEGY FOR MONDAY MAY 5

WHILE WE ARE ALL STILL GRIEVING FOR EIGHT BELLES, PLEASE LET US CHANNEL THIS GRIEF INTO DOING SOMETHING CONSTRUCTIVE TO HELP SAVE INNOCENT LIVES. THIS IS A TIME SENSITIVE ISSUE AND IS ON THE MISSOURI STATE CALENDAR FOR MONDAY!!!!

Missouri State Senate to Consider Pro-Horse Slaughter Resolution

The Animal Welfare Institute has just learned that the Missouri State Senate will consider a resolution as soon as Monday, May 5, urging the US Congress to block passage of the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act(AHSPA) and facilitate the construction of new horse
slaughter plants on US soil.

Missouri Senate Concurrent Resolution 35 flies in the face of public sentiment and reason.This resolution, clearly shaped by the pro-horse
slaughter lobby, is chock full of misinformation and scare tactics designed to unnerve federal legislators and prevent them from taking action to stop America's horses from going to slaughter. It refers to the Horse Welfare Coalition a group founded and currently run by the slaughterhouses, which consists of only pro-horse slaughter organizationS.

If passed, the resolution will be used to press our legislators into allowing the continued slaughter of our horses at the hands of a cruel and predatory industry that does nothing to help horses (as the resolution authors would have you believe) and everything to hurt them.

Be sure to let Missouri Senators know that the Horse Welfare Coalition and the sponsors of this resolution are out of step with the states of Texas, Illinois and California (which have already banned horse slaughter), as well as more than 500 horse industry groups and leaders, equine rescues, veterinary organizations and the majority of Americans, all of whom support passage of the American Horse Slaughter
Prevention Act

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

Please contact the Missouri legislators listed here over the weekend and Monday morning, asking them to OPPOSE SenateConcurrent Resolution 35. You do not need to be a Missouri resident to call, as this resolution, if passed, has the potential to impact horses and horse
owners from across the nation.

Missouri State Senate Contact Information

Senator District Capitol Phone
Frank Barnitz D-16 (573) 751-2108
Matt Bartle R-8 (573) 751-1464
Joan Bray D-24 (573) 751-2514
Victor Callahan D-11 (573) 751-3074
Norma Champion R-30 (573) 751-2583
Dan Clemens R-20 (573) 751-4008
Maida Coleman D-5 (573) 751-2606
Jason Crowell R-27 (573) 751-2459
Rita Heard Days D-14 (573) 751-4106
Tom Dempsey R-23 (573) 751-1141
Kevin Engler R-3 (573) 751-3455
Michael Gibbons R-15 (573) 751-2853
Jack Goodman R-29 (573) 751-2234
Chuck Graham D-19 (573) 751-2162
Timothy P. Green D-13 (573) 751-2420
John Griesheimer R-26 (573) 751-3678
Jolie Justus D-10 (573) 751-2788
Harry Kennedy D-1 (573) 751-2126
Chris Koster D-31 (573) 751-1430
Brad Lager R-12 (573) 751-1415
John Loudon R-7 (573) 751-9763
Rob Mayer R-25 (573) 751-3859
Ryan McKenna D-22 (573) 751-1492
Gary Nodler R-32 (573) 751-2306
Chuck Purgason R-33 (573) 751-1882
Luann Ridgeway R-17 (573) 751-2547
Scott Rupp R-2 (573) 751-1282
Delbert Scott R-28 (573) 751-8793
Charlie Shields R-34 (573) 751-9476
Wes Shoemyer D-18 (573) 751-7852
Jeff Smith D-4 (573) 751-3599
Bill Stouffer R-21 (573) 751-1507
Carl Vogel R-6 (573) 751-2076
Yvonne Wilson D-9 (573) 751-9758

WE DON'T HAVE MUCH TIME GUYS.....WE NEED TO JUMP ON THIS AND SHOW THEM WHAT WE'RE MADE OF EVEN THROUGH THE TOUGH TIMES LIKE THIS!!!
FOR MORE INFORMATION WITH LINKS TO THE SENATE EMAIL ADDRESSES, PLEASE GO TO THE DB

http://forums.prospero.com/alexbrown/messages?msg=23066.6.

We are BARBARO'S VOICE...LET IT BE HEARD! FOR ALL THOSE WE'VE LOST, LET'S GET THIS DONE.
Thanks,
Shelley and Debra

Posted by: ShelleyA at May 5, 2008 1:19 AM

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

Prayers for Chelokee. Sad weekend Love to Barbaro Thanks Alex

Prayers for Chelokee. Sad weekend Love to Barbaro Thanks Alex

Good morning FOB family,

Best wishes for Chelokee's surgery with a quick and painless recovery.

RIP beautiful Eight Belles. Your will always be remembered.

Run with the wind, Barbaro.

CNN is talking about Eight Belles, Track Safety, and Barbaro all day. They just aired a story at 6:57 am (EST) and referenced more discussion coming up.
jan

Very sad about Eight Belles. Rest In Peace Beautiful Girl.

Will Horse Racing ever WAKE UP?

Prayer to Chelokee for a full recovery.

Congratulations to Big Brown. Looks to be quite a horse.

### This was posted by Paul Moran,4 days before the race,he has covered throughbred racing for 30 years. I would like to thank Dixie for forwarding it to me.

Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Eight Belles deserves better
Louisville, Ky.

Where are the animal rights activists when you need them?

Eight Belles was entered in the 134th Kentucky Derby on Wednesday. Success would demand that she run 10 furlongs faster than 19 males. There is the most remote possibility that she will succeed, this covered by one of life’s immutable truths: Anything can happen in a horse race.

What is far more likely is that Eight Belles will be permanently scarred by the experience.

Three fillies have won the Derby, in 1915, Genuine Risk, Genuine Risk, in 1981, and Winning Colors, whose victory will mark its 20th anniversary on Saturday.

Regret, though she was generally unsound, was an extremely fast filly whose regularly defeated males. But Genuine Risk and Winning Colors were nothing like Eight Belles. Both were big, rugged fillies who competed against males on even physical terms. Winning Colors defeated males in the Santa Anita Derby before the Derby. Genuine Risk prepped for the Derby in the Wood Memorial, in which she finished third.

Eight Belles has nothing in common with those fillies.

She is, however, a beautifully conformed filly, light-framed and feminine. Her misfortune is not trainer Larry Jones, who skirts the issue uncomfortably. A trainer who criticizes the decisions made by an owner will not be training for long. Though he came here a year ago with Hard Spun, who was runner-up to Street Sense, Jones shows no symptoms of Derby fever and he seems uncomfortable discussing Eight Belles’ chances in the Derby. Owner Rick Porter, however, is apparently beset by Derby fever.

Unlike the three fillies who have won the Derby, Eight Belles has never faced males nor has she attempted a race beyond 1 1/16. She has won her last four races, one in New Orleans, three in Arkansas but none in Grade I company. She would be formidable in the Oaks on Friday, in which Jones has Proud Spell for more reasonable, less vain connections who are probably concerned with the welfare and well being of their prized filly.

There is no reason beyond vanity to run Eight Belles in the Derby, either. As a breeding prospect, her value may be increased but a broodmare can produce only one foal a year. Breeders found it almost impossible for Genuine Risk to conceive and Winning Colors has had no impact as a broodmare.

The only thing that might have saved Eight Belles from the cruelty she is about to endure was a poor post position but the draw put her connections sixth in order of selection, assuring a favorable position in the barrier a day after she drew the outside post in a field of 12 entered in the Oaks. She will face the firing squad from post five.

Porter has enjoyed great success, having owned the very good filly, Jostle, a Grade I winner in 2000, Round Pond, winner of the 2006 Breeders’ Cup Distaff and Hard Spun, who he sold for an enormous amount of money last year. Porter should know better. He should also show a bit of compassion for a very nice, still developing filly who, if he sends her into the teeth of a buzzsaw on Saturday, may very well leave he career in the shadows of the twin spires. If so, it will be a sad, sad day. –PM

The Derby takes shape

Although an outside post is rarely a obstacle in the Kentucky Derby, it does a great deal to determine the dynamic and the luck of the draw in the two-tiered system used to decide position in the barrier put the principal speed horses and the favorite in tough spots, in the case of Big Brown, it was voluntary.

The draw was marked by an unprecedented display of arrogance by the connections of Big Brown, who with several positions still open, chose post 20. Only one Derby winner has overcome the outside post in a field of 20 – Clyde Van Dusen, in 1929. His connections did not choose that post, however. Nevertheless, Big Brown was installed at the 3-1 morning-line favorite.

Since Clyde Van Dusen, 10 horses breaking from the outside post in Derby fields of 20 or more have, with the exception of Caveat, who finished third in 1983, have to crack the top three.

Three speed horses –Cowboy Cal, Recapturetheglory and Gayego – are immediately inside Big Brown in the barrier and Bob Black Jack will depart from post 13, all but assuring a wild run to the first turn and an extremely fast pace. Rick Dutrow and Big Brown’s connections may have left their Derby chances in downtown Louisville on Wednesday.

Two horses will go into the Derby with blinkers on, two others with blinkers off. Surprisingly, one of those with blinkers on, Bob Black Jack, the world-record holder for six furlongs, already has high early speed, a curious decision by an obscure trainer. Court Vision, who breaks from the four post, also goes with blinkers. Removing the hood: Anak Nakal and Z Humor.--PM

Posted by Paul Moran at 6:18 PM

Run free beautiful filly, you are free of man's control over your life now.

Karen Macmanus - Dallas, Texas

...some thought-provoking articles here about the race....

www.peta.org

PETA,wants Eight Belles Jockey suspended,they said on MSNBC,what do they know,that we do not.
RIP Eight Belles,a true champion,Ruffian & Barbaro will take care of you now,

Dr. Richardson and Eight Belles connections on CBS at 7:14 (EST)this morning
jan

ALERT!?!?!

I JUST HEARD ON THE RADIO THIS MORNING (6AM CDT) THAT BELLES' JOCKEY HAS BEEN SUSPENDED!

The announcer gave no further details. Maybe the morning shows will have something. Has anyone else heard this?

Dear God, I hope that jockey did nothing to cause Eight Belles to go down..the cameras were all on Big Brown so I didn't actually see the breakdown(thankfully)..could bringing her too abruptly to a stop be a problem? What are the authorities seeing?? I do think at 20 years old Gabriel is certainly not the experienced jockey of an Edgar Prado..who saved Barbaro with her quick thinking and acting..

Dear God, I hope that jockey did nothing to cause Eight Belles to go down..the cameras were all on Big Brown so I didn't actually see the breakdown(thankfully)..could bringing her too abruptly to a stop be a problem? What are the authorities seeing?? I do think at 20 years old Gabriel is certainly not the experienced jockey of an Edgar Prado..who saved Barbaro with her quick thinking and acting..

God Bless Eight Bells, may she rest in peace, what a grand lady.

Chelokee, wishing you all the best for successful surgery, stay strong.

Big Brown, hoping you will be our Triple Crown winner this year.

God Bless them all and hold them close in heart and arms.

Very sad weekend.

KAREN - Thank you for that post from Moran. Oh, God! He knew this race would kill her! He places the blame squarely on the owner, whom he describes as "beset by Derby fever". His graphic description sent chills up my spine:

"Eight Belles has never faced males nor has she attempted a race beyond 1 1/16..."

"...She will face the firing squad from post five.
... Porter should know better. He should also show a bit of compassion for a very nice, still developing filly who, if he sends her into the teeth of a buzzsaw on Saturday, may very well leave her career in the shadows of the twin spires. If so, it will be a sad, sad day."

Good Grief! It's like this writer had a crystal ball!

This makes me even sicker.

NBC Today Show just announced that they're going to be talking with Belles' trainer; didn't hear anything about the jockey yet.

May 5 Cherokee Devotional [sharing email from Harriette Brillianthawk]

Remembering can be painful and sometimes without any real benefit. But much of the time it helps us move ahead like a spur that tells us not to tarry but to go on and do what we have to do. It is far too easy to carry around a u s ga nv tsv, a false guilt, a wrong idea, to override our good memories. We lose sight of the positive things we have done and the happiness we have shared by recalling a thousand impossible wishes we wanted to come true. But it does no good to dwarf the present time because the past was not what we hoped it would be. We cannot help but recall things and times and people dear to us---but to remember them with pleasure does them more honor than to focus on what we did or didn't do in the past.


Our bare feet are conscious of the sympathetic touch of our ancestors as we walk over this earth.

Seattle

reposting from the tail end of last batch:

one of our friends/patrons at our homebaseplace handed me $25, saying, "I won this at a Derby Party betting on Big Brown, and now I feel like it's blood money and I don't want to use it so please take it and give it to the horses." So on behalf of my friend Sandy I w/b making several donations, at least one to a TB charity. Just wanted you to know the spontaneous reaction of a gal at a neighborhood bar . . .

Posted by: C. Jaffe at May 5, 2008 9:40 AM

I'm just so sick at heart, was so thrilled at Big Brown's winning and then immediate sorrow and grief for Eight Belles, I just don't know how I'll watch another race!
Please forgive me, but right now at this time I can't deal with she's up in heaven running around. She should not be dead!! I really do not believe she should have been in the Derby at all.
God bless her, I'm so sorry sweet girl, you are a beauty. Prayers for chelokee, god I'm so sad.

GREAT respect to Eight Belles. Brave, fierce, talented, elegant. So very sad . . .

May Chelokee come through it all well and happy.

May Big Brown, Nicanor (as he trains and comes into himself) and all our equine friends be safe and happy.

Thoughts of BARBARO always . . .

Good Morning America was supposed to have a segment on racing-"is it cruelty to animals to race horses" this a.m. I am at work. So I will not get a chance to see it. Hopefully, they will post the video on their website later today.

The Eight Belles story is definitely getting national attention. I hope and pray in the long run this will be a good thing for horses as well as the racing industry.

I truly believe a great deal of the problem is the breeding for speed. The light skeletons of these horses can no longer support the power. In addition, if a successful and expensive horse gets injured. What happens to them? They are bred. Again, perpetuating what may very well be an inferior genetic line. The industry needs to get back to breeding for strength and durability.

I believe there are other factors as well. But, breeding would help solve some of these catastrophic injuries.

Seabiscuit race 80-90 times in his 5 year career.

####
C. Jaffe...all of us felt the same way...any money that was won....we felt like it was blood dirty money....alot of my friends are highly upset.

####
Good Morning Barbaro

We love you...we thank you for your gentle spirit...and we are here to finish your unfinish tasks....THE UNDEFEATED BARBARO!!!!!

Good Morning Family/Fans of Barbaro

Please let us take our anger, our sadness, into positive directions....

I personally felt like there were too many horses running...but most of all....Churchill needs safer tracks....We need to start writing and calling...and make it very professional...that the fans want a change in their tracks.

I know the conditions Friday was sloppy...and the workers worked on the tracks...and I feel like it was as hard as concrete...God Bless Those Horses All Of Them That Ran.

Congratulations Big Brown! And our hearts go out to Cherlokee for complete healing...and our hearts are broken for Eight Belles....but we are going to get something done...we are the FOBS...

We have an uphill battle...first...stop horse slaugher....(I noticed Missouri trying to stop our bill)....

Stop transportation across the borders...and help our rescues...and remember our Fallen Angels.

We need to be there for our rescues, and our horses....then we need to promote safer race tracks, and help to the jockeys...they are in a dangerous sport...them and the horses.

Teach education....and find cures for laminitis.

To stop and help the PMU mares...and to promote more education on this and how they are treated and deserve more....this in Rememberance of Nellie and Lil Angel.

Did Barbaro leave alot on our plate...yes...can we do this.....yes....we have accomplished alot FOBS...so I know with all my heart...we can do this...we can find solutions....not create problems.

I love all of you...and I thank you for letting me be a small part of this loving family..

God Bless.

####
Alex...you are a true friend...and we thank you for all you do.
Tim And Fair Hill...thank you.
Our precious Fallen Angels...we are here.

Blessings on all who attend to Chelokee this day.
Blessings on all who are still struggling with Belles' death.
Blessings on Big Brown--may he be rested and worked thoughtfully before the Preakness.
Blessings on our very important calls to Missouri today.

You know what the kids say: Be the Change.
Courage: j

Thank you Wendy. Thank you Alex.

ALSO:
Robyn: you can go here:

http://rockportharbor.com/forum/index.php

and leave condolences for Belles' connections.The forum is very easy to get into. I tried to find a snail addy, but alas, could not...

Hariette:
I remember your healing prayer during Barbaro's recovery and decline. Thank you for sending it out to the universe again.

Prayers for Chelokee.

Hay, FOB's!

It seems people read my comment about trying to make viable inroads to racing and equine welfare. It is a seed I'm planting. If there are any people who want to brainstorm for national equine advocacy - to work in a respectful manner...but be determined to work with law enforcement/animal control, to created educational programs to raise awareness of equine welfare issues,to publicize the networks of rescues around the country so owners are aware of options to care for horses, to have people on the front lines at tracks, stables, backyards, etc. to intervene sooner rather than later - let me know...this is the beginning of a vision, but I don't know what else to do with it. There are many creative and knowledgeable people on this board

I can't pull this all together in my head yet...we've taken such wonderful steps..but maybe its time to ramp our visibility up. I do NOT want PETA involved with this vision I have. I want to make that clear up front. They do things their own way...my way is more along the Dalai Lama's way by putting Compassion into action. There is no better or worse way...just a difference and I am not judging PETA. I just have a different view of things. I will be contacting Zen Peacemakers to see if I can talk to Bernie Goldstein or one of his people at the Center. If I have to stay there for a little bit, I will.

I cannnot bear to see another horse sacrifice themself for those who haven't "gotten it". The horses have tried and tried to tell us more times than I care to count. Eight Belles and Casey were, in my mind, the line in the sand. Saturday at the ranch with those drunk kids trying to get into the boys pasture was my line in the sand.

But what the heck do I do once I step over that line??? If people want to e-mail me privately, please do so. I don't know where I'm going with this train of thought.

Have e-mailed the MO Senators and will be leaving for the ranch. I talked to the energy worker who emerged Saturday night and from her perceptions, the land at the ranch has cleared a tremendous amount of stored dense energy...she saw a golden glow for the first time ever on the land last night. So what we had to do...worked.

And, in spite of the physical toll on me...

I'd do it again.

Healing, Love, Peace
ONS
Padme

Good Morning Barbaro, Belles & all my FOB's - I just went in and emailed all the senators on the list - I hope we can make a difference.

Love & hugs to all....Debbie

Good Morning All,

Barbaro you live in my Heart.

Good morning wonderful creatures at MHR. Jerri might today be the day?

FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION!

For Barbaro, for Fitch, for Apache, for Ho'pats, for Windchill and all horses.

Ro & Brady

Good Monday morning FOBs,

A horrible weekend - catastrophic actually - glad it's over. And that's coming from someone who usually loves weekends.

The FOBs have already said all the things I'm thinking, so I won't repeat it, but bless you all for your caring and compassion, which is far more important than the love of money.

I hope we will get some good news today - from MO and from Chelokee's surgeon.

Janice
A forever FOB

GOOD MORNING FANS OF BARBARO... it's time to rally!! Together we can get this done!!

STRATEGY FOR MONDAY MAY 5

WHILE WE ARE ALL STILL GRIEVING FOR EIGHT BELLES, PLEASE LET US CHANNEL THIS GRIEF INTO DOING SOMETHING CONSTRUCTIVE TO HELP SAVE INNOCENT LIVES. THIS IS A TIME SENSITIVE ISSUE AND IS ON THE MISSOURI STATE CALENDAR FOR MONDAY!!!!

Missouri State Senate to Consider Pro-Horse Slaughter Resolution

The Animal Welfare Institute has just learned that the Missouri State Senate will consider a resolution as soon as Monday, May 5, urging the US Congress to block passage of the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act(AHSPA) and facilitate the construction of new horse
slaughter plants on US soil.

Missouri Senate Concurrent Resolution 35 flies in the face of public sentiment and reason.This resolution, clearly shaped by the pro-horse
slaughter lobby, is chock full of misinformation and scare tactics designed to unnerve federal legislators and prevent them from taking action to stop America's horses from going to slaughter. It refers to the Horse Welfare Coalition a group founded and currently run by the slaughterhouses, which consists of only pro-horse slaughter organizationS.

If passed, the resolution will be used to press our legislators into allowing the continued slaughter of our horses at the hands of a cruel and predatory industry that does nothing to help horses (as the resolution authors would have you believe) and everything to hurt them.

Be sure to let Missouri Senators know that the Horse Welfare Coalition and the sponsors of this resolution are out of step with the states of Texas, Illinois and California (which have already banned horse slaughter), as well as more than 500 horse industry groups and leaders, equine rescues, veterinary organizations and the majority of Americans, all of whom support passage of the American Horse Slaughter
Prevention Act

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

Please contact the Missouri legislators listed here over the weekend and Monday morning, asking them to OPPOSE SenateConcurrent Resolution 35. You do not need to be a Missouri resident to call, as this resolution, if passed, has the potential to impact horses and horse
owners from across the nation.

Missouri State Senate Contact Information

Senator District Capitol Phone
Frank Barnitz D-16 (573) 751-2108
Matt Bartle R-8 (573) 751-1464
Joan Bray D-24 (573) 751-2514
Victor Callahan D-11 (573) 751-3074
Norma Champion R-30 (573) 751-2583
Dan Clemens R-20 (573) 751-4008
Maida Coleman D-5 (573) 751-2606
Jason Crowell R-27 (573) 751-2459
Rita Heard Days D-14 (573) 751-4106
Tom Dempsey R-23 (573) 751-1141
Kevin Engler R-3 (573) 751-3455
Michael Gibbons R-15 (573) 751-2853
Jack Goodman R-29 (573) 751-2234
Chuck Graham D-19 (573) 751-2162
Timothy P. Green D-13 (573) 751-2420
John Griesheimer R-26 (573) 751-3678
Jolie Justus D-10 (573) 751-2788
Harry Kennedy D-1 (573) 751-2126
Chris Koster D-31 (573) 751-1430
Brad Lager R-12 (573) 751-1415
John Loudon R-7 (573) 751-9763
Rob Mayer R-25 (573) 751-3859
Ryan McKenna D-22 (573) 751-1492
Gary Nodler R-32 (573) 751-2306
Chuck Purgason R-33 (573) 751-1882
Luann Ridgeway R-17 (573) 751-2547
Scott Rupp R-2 (573) 751-1282
Delbert Scott R-28 (573) 751-8793
Charlie Shields R-34 (573) 751-9476
Wes Shoemyer D-18 (573) 751-7852
Jeff Smith D-4 (573) 751-3599
Bill Stouffer R-21 (573) 751-1507
Carl Vogel R-6 (573) 751-2076
Yvonne Wilson D-9 (573) 751-9758

WE DON'T HAVE MUCH TIME GUYS.....WE NEED TO JUMP ON THIS AND SHOW THEM WHAT WE'RE MADE OF EVEN THROUGH THE TOUGH TIMES LIKE THIS!!!
FOR MORE INFORMATION WITH LINKS TO THE SENATE EMAIL ADDRESSES, PLEASE GO TO THE DB

http://forums.prospero.com/alexbrown/messages?msg=23066.6.

We are BARBARO'S VOICE...LET IT BE HEARD! FOR ALL THOSE WE'VE LOST, LET'S GET THIS DONE.
Thanks,
Shelley and Debra

Posted by: ShelleyA at May 5, 2008 1:19 AM

Just heard Mr. Jones on NBC, along with Dr. B., but I didn't care for what he (Jones) said at all.

Matt Lauer asked him if this sport should be viewed in the same way as cruelty to animals, and did this make him rethink it; he said no that it didn't make him rethink it, and he said, "it's not that cruel". Lauer quickly picked up on that and asked him if that meant that he thought there was SOME cruelty. Jones said, no, that he meant that it's not as cruel as horses are to themselves out in the pasture, or running free.

Lauer asked about the track surface; I think he also asked about synthetic tracks. Jones said that the track had dried out and it was fine.

At the outset, he asked both of them if they had ever seen anything like this before. They both said no, not when a horse has galloped out a mile or so -- that this was a freak thing.

I wish Lauer had known to ask harder questions, like what Moran posted in his article above, i.e., that Belles NEVER should have been allowed to race against the boys, and that it would be her "swan song".

I guess this is why racing will take forever to change, if ever, b/c those at the helm will not change.

Didn't hear anything about the jockey. Maybe the radio announcer was mistaken,

Dear Lord guide and bless the hands of Chelokee's surgeon today...may they be skillfull! Place your healing hands upon him !!
Please bring Jerri's little soul into the world safely surrounded by love so richly deserved!!
Finally Lord we ask for some answers to the question of Eight Belles and some closure to this very sad situation for our hearts are overflowing with grief!
Guide us lord so that we know your will in this instance for the betterment of ALL YOUR HORSES.
We ask all these things in your name and for your glory Amen.

PEACE and love to ALL today....

I sure am sorry the filly broke down. She had more heart than she could tote. She was a fighter to the end and there is no telling how good she could have been. A durn fine horse in every measure. Thoughts and prayers to those that loved her from the Gates of Eden Farms.

I saw a replay on Good Morning America that showed Eight Belles running prior to the end of the race and you could easily see that her stride was way off before she collapsed almost like she was running in pain. Now I am no expert at all but you could see her stride was off. Maybe her jockey was too inexperienced or excited by the race to notice. So sad

I left voicemails for all the Mo Senators yesterday except Koster, Shields and Wilson whose VM's were full. This morning Wilson's was taking messages but the other two were still "full."

Today I am emailing the whole list and including the links to VEW and the VEW publications, and to AAHS.

REMINDER that Senators Coleman and Gibbons are both non-cosponsors of SCR 35 and hold leadership positions with the Mo Senate - IMO we should especially hit them with details and links.

And while I was emailing just now, I noticed at the Mo Sen Pres Pro Tem's webpage, that they are in recess until 2 this afternoon. That gives us plenty of time to be heard. ttyl - cheers & hugs - CJ

George, I couldn't agree more. Look at the replay. She was in trouble before the finish. I'm not an expert either but her stride was somewhat off. God bless her, God help us if we did it again for greed.

Good morning everyone,

Please take the time today to call/email/fax the list from Missouri.

Do it for Eight Belles, and Chelokee.

Good Morning. We have tons of work to do. Tons.

This tragedy is more than a P.R. nightmare. And why did so many people feel dread prior to the race? Myself included.

Reactions from my family, friends, who live all over the continent, are all the same. Anger, anger, and more anger.

I tell them it needs to be channeled.

Back to work. God be with Chelokee today and throughout his recovery.

Heartfelt prayers for Chelokee's health and welfare this morning ~ may the outcome of his surgery be as successful as Teuflesberg!

Good Morning FOB's,

I guess we all feel the same, it was a very dark weekend. One comment I want to make since some mean comments were made to me Saturday. I was very disapointed by who made them and I was hurt. WE are all entitled to our own opinion's, whether we agree or disagree. I will not "take the high road". I do not want people to agree with me, how boring would that be...no diversity.

The racing industry is in trouble, and anyone who seems to think it is all pretty and wonderful, is mistaken.This abuse has been going on forever! The horse racing and greyhound industry's are the same the abuse of these animals and what goes on behind the scenes is horrible, look at all the belemic jockeys, horses that are sent to slaughter over seas. It goes on and on. The greyhound industry was hurt and tracks all over the US closed down, who wants to see a dog break its legs and wipe out on the track. The two are very close in alot of ways. My grandfather and father were very big horse fans, they told me of what happens behind the scenes. Thank God they are both gone and don't need to see this tragedy.I also work with someone who races his horses, so it comes direct. I don't make any of this up. I will not continue to watch racing and horses having the life beat out of them by a whip, when it is not needed. Eight Belles did not deserve what she got from her bast*&#d jockey.

Barbaro I love you sweetie. Thank you for the sunshine.

Eight Belles, The sun is shining in your honor today beautiful girl.

Chelokee, prayers and white light coming your way beautiful boy. Please get well.

Thank you Alex, you are the man!

The May Hay Ride at MHR has started. Jerri and Apple are leading the way.

Barbaro's Kentucky Derby Hay Wagon Ride

Two Drawings: First includes a Barbaro Breyer Model, a copy of Kentucky Derby #132 Review hard cover book,a hand painted pewter Barbaro-Prado pin, and four Kentucky Derby commemorative mint julep glasses.

Second Drawing is an unsigned 8x10 framed Barbara Livingston photo of Barbaro taken at Churchill Downs.

May Hay Ride

Ro & Brady

####

Renee I was not disagreeing with you, I just wanted to avoid a blowout that might have ensued should that person have decided to continue in the vein she was going. I know how you felt and I also wanted to respond to her, but I thought better of it.

I apologize if you were offended.

Ro & Brady

Rosemarie,
Thank you, I feel your words were harsh I could not understand them I always liked you from the start. Now I understand and I have to look at the fact that you my fren were very upset also. I realized who it was later.
((((Rosemarie))))

We FOB's sure know how to turn negatives into positves. I feel so much better! :) You made my day Happier.

Renee,

I am glad you are feeling better. :)

Ro & Brady

:)

Renee you are welcome to state your opinions as long as you are within the site rules and keep in mind this is a horse racing website.

yes diversity is a good thing and sharing our opinions makes it interesting.

As a reference, here are the site rules:

Site rules (apply to this discussion forum and the main ABR site):
No personal attacks, no use of abusive language, copyright rules apply, and you own your own content. Behaviour that is disruptive to the community will not be tolerated. This is a site hosted by a racehorse trainer.

Morning, Famblee...

It seems to me, that if these owners who 'love' their horses so much....would STOP entering them in races until CHANGES to the surfaces/drugging/and so many other facets of this 'business'were made....if they would STOP entering their horses....CHANGE WOULD COME...and FASSSSSSSST!!

In my opinion, that is what would get this 'industry' to make changes to facilitate the safety of these beauties!

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Rosemarie,
Is there any news on Jerri today, she is so pretty.

oops hit the post button prematurely - I meant to add - now let's make a difference and improve the welfare of our horses with our work! You're a good advocate for the horses and I appreciate all that you've done!

A very organized letter writing campaign needs to happen. This is a PR nightmare for horseracing. NOw is the time to put your words on paper in a sane but heartfelt manner to the powers that be. Churchill, etc. dont rant, and threaten, write like sane adults, they have to listen. that is the way we make change, not PETA way. Lets make the FOB's heard and let it be known that they are a force to be reckoned with. They know about us anyway. Lets put that tragedy to some good use.

One more thing- all this talk about the people on the backstretch abusing their horses. Well I come from a horse show background, and I can tell you this, there is more abuse going on with western pleasure horses than you can imagine. Horrible things that you wouldnt believe. So you cannot just single out racing. Show people are some of the worst in the country. I have seen it, I know. Jen

I am posting an e-mail I just received from a member of the IL call team....HELP!!!

Morning,

We need to target Jeff Smith's office. The girl on the phone said she didn't understand who told everyone to call them. She asked me why I wanted horse slaughter - SCR35 is opposing the federal bills. I told her that HR503 and S311 were for banning horse transportation for slaughter. She was still confused. This office doesn't get it.

Contact Information:
PHONE (573)751-3599
NO FAX

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Wendy,
I don't need the rules I have been here for two years I know them. Please stop causing trouble. This is a good place with good people. We have all been here together and will stay together.

If you want to keep harassing me go ahead, I will report it to Alex. I am here in good standing.

jen,
The facts will help they will know that we know what we are talking. heartfeldt is good, too much emotion can hurt. We have to use suttle strength.

Renee,

Jerri is waxing, but so far she is just standing there looking pretty.

Ro & Brady

Lynne,
More of us will call and explain it to her so it makers sense. No problem hunny. It all gets straightened out. Exhale pleazzzzzzzzzzzzzzzze!

Another tragic weekend of racing, hearing from the vet that Eight Belles was "rubber legged" makes things worse. She ran with her huge heart and her body gave out. Front page article and pictures in the Palm Beach Post about the continued tragedys and how many fans the sport is losing due to poor decisions by owners and tracks refusing to consider polytrack. I had to wait until today to post because I have been so sad and angry.

Praying for beautiful Chelokee. Churchill was bragging on Sirius at the Races that due to the rain they were going to pack the track to make it extra hard in case it rained again.

I am making extra calls today in honor of these 2 brave horses.

Good grief. okay, to those who say "I'm not an expert" with all due respect, please refrain from making assessments? For all those who believe Paul Moran " has a crystal ball " please desist? Would those who are fueling rumours about Gabriel Saez please STOP?? Would those who would paraphrase Larry Jones' comments today please desist? He DID clarify his comment about racing being "that cruel". Remember the question was is horseracing "as cruel as animal fighting" Matt Lauer did ask some pointed questions, for which I applaud him. Larry Jones had excellent answers, including that the safety of horses is paramount to all. HE SAID that. Why aren't you running to your computers to say that? Why don't you note that both he and Dr. Bramlage acknowledge that synthetic tracks have reduced injuries and should be installed everywhere? There will always be some who will never be satisfied, but why second guess the comments of the veterinarian who was at the scene and said there is no reasonable explanation for Belles' injuries? Why overlook the fact that this untimely and tragic death of this beautiful fillyl is getting HUGE NATIONAL attention? People I never guessed would give a damn have spoken to me about it, consoling me and expressing shock and sincere dismay. NO ONE has said anything suggesting that "cruelty" killed this beautiful filly.

I've paraphrased lot before you get all over me, but the upshot is that too many are reading what they want and going off on tangents. That won't bring Belles back, won't do anything constructive here, and for that matter, for those who continuously blast racing, why are you on an antiracing blog? This is a racing blog, remember?

I've finished my calls to MO, finished my calls to DC, making calls and emailing to try to get a damn JOB, and brainstorming with my friends how to create a better coalition within among those those who are interested, and constantly praying for Chelokee's healing. My cousin, whom I haven't spoken to in ten years ( long story-he "prefers" email ) called and said he's sending me money to send to Michael Blowen. Surprised the heck outta me. I am going to stay away from the board for a while because it disturbs me greatly to see the trend of the conversation is much like it was yesterday, here in the community created by racing. Seems to be rather ill-mannered in my opinion.

these keys are jumping all over the place...Sorry ;)

clarification "why are you NOT on an antiracing site" geez Sorry

www.legacy.com/Kentucky/GB/GuestbookEntry.aspx?&PersonID=108934559

Sorry I can't blue link..I flunked that lesson..
But above is the link for the Legacy Guest Book for Eight Belles..

Cheryl,
Excellent post as always. 10 years and a call comes through, it is amazing what these beautiful horses can do. They touch the spirit and soul so deeply.

Wendy U. is Alex's/ABR's moderator. She is not causing trouble, just doing her job.

I have not posted here for months because of the childishness and other pettiness going on.

It is another sad day when you are all at each others throats arguing about the horrific death of a beautiful creature. I should keep quiet, as I normally have, but cannot.

R.I.P. Eight Belles Condolences to all connections

Fare well Chelokee with your surgery and following recovery.

Barbaro- You Big Ole Boy- There is great disappointment that wells up inside me when I came here today. It springs up as if a fountain, choking the very words and thoughts from me. Unbelievable the backbiting, infighting, and the dissension amongst our family members. The sadness is overwhelming my heart. It makes all seem the sadder.

SpiritHorse,

I am with you about the Matt Lauer interview. I DO NOT like what Larry Jones said. I used to love horseracing, but the industry will never change because NO ONE will speak out. They tote the industry line. It's OK to race 2 year olds, it's not the racetrack, theere's nothing wrong with the way horses are bred today, the horses are pushed to early, blah, blah blah.

Horse racing could be such a great sport, if they would just make some changes to make it safer for the horses and jockeys. How can they be so subborn when their very existance is on the line? WHO WILL BE THE FIRST WELL KNOWN PERSON IN THE SPORT TO SPEAK OUT????

As a fan I demand it and as a fan I deserve it.

###
Sandra: I sure hope 'our' boy, *CHIEF* is still 'hanging in there'!!! Hope he has enjoyed his *SPECIAL* canned doggy food for his breakfast this morning:) And maybe a *NILLA WAFER* for a little mid-morning SNACK:)

I'm on my way to see if he still has his *CHIEF* candles burning!!! :-O

Please give that beauuuuuuuuuutiful DOGGY some lovings from his Aunty Lynne:)

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Dora,
I started over nothing as usual, it was done to me in my grief Saturday over Eight Belles.How shallow! This is just poor behavior to keep it going. Others speak alot louder and harsher than me and nothing is said. I call it harassment it has gone on for a long time. Yes it is very childish!!! This is Barbaro's house RESPECT IT! AND WHO HE HAS INVITED TO STAY!

I'm outta here for a while. Enough is enough.

###

I had came back to seek information and solace from people who understand about the plight of Chelokee and Eight Belles, the other day. I was confronted with the most scary meanspirited comments and second guesses,and opinions than I could ever imagine. I do declare that they were meaner than the speculations about our dear Barbaro! Everyone was up in arms for so long, with such nastiness, NOW it makes that look like child's play.

I am embarrassed. I hope that your thoughts, speculations, second guessing, wild ideas die out. I pray you you find comfort somewhere in something to give you the peace you so desperately seek.

This is not directed at any one person, just to whomever feels it necessary. If it stings you, and you really feel it, it must be meant for you.

I have not read, responded or even peeked at ABR since Feb. I came for help, and was frightened beyond belief, and ran for my life (well, walked slowly, as I have a bad back-lol) Thanks for the few voices of reason. Thanks for the few calm heads in the storm-Cheryl Jones, WendyU, ShelleyA. I think that without you gals, I would have hid my head in the sand. You drew me out. :0) love ya!

djcrow1524@bellsouth.net

Famblee....

If you have a moment, please visit www.gratefulness.org search 'groups'..CHIEF he only has four candles burning...

Nancy, CT/Barb AZ/Rosemarie...ANYONE who is able to 'blue ink' can you help me, please...I am blue ink challenged....I probably ALWAYS will be...I apologize...I'm a good cook, though:)

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Candles for Chief

Alex, have you heard anything yet about the autopsy on Belles? Did they prform it yesterday or will it be done today? Will Rood & Riddle do it or maybe New Bolton? Please post anything you can find out. I am very interested in what they might find.

P.S. I hate riding crops.

####
LOL, Lynne. I'm at school, and I HAVE to go. Any more blue linking will have to go to somebody else for now. I will check in later.

##

OH, BARB,AZ!! 'QUEEN OF EVERYTHING' especially BLUE INKING:)

THANKS, BARB!!! We just gotta keep those little flames burning there for this guy with the BIG HEART and LOVE FOR THOSE 'NILLA WAFERS':) and....for his SWEET MAMA, too!! :)

xoxoxoxo

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Renee: Please email me@ jonnagrey@twcny.rr.com

OMGOSH, YOU ALL ARE JUST THE *BEST*!!!

*CHIEF* already has THIRTEEN candles...I just 'tellya' FAMBLEE:) even when our hearts are breaking and things seeminly want to head SOUTH...here we are....making those little candles *GLOW* for a SPECIAL DOGGY FREN:)

I LOVE YOLE!!!

I must zooooooooooom....bbl8r:)

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/05/05/national/main4069876.shtml

Belles in the top story right now on cbs news on line.

FOBs:
I just spent 2 hours calling the MO senators. Several of the Peeps I spoke with said that they were not aware of when this resolution was coming up for a vote.
AND
All of them were most receptive and very friendly.I
went to school there in the late (cough cough) 60's and just loved the place. Now, who knows how whacked they'll be by 5 pm their time...

They are getting MANY calls...so rock on, FOBs.

first time posting anything on this site...

i haven't been to this site in quite a longtime and used to come here everyday to check on the status of barbaro....haven't been back since he passed...

i know i am probably going to get a lot of flack for posting it, but i really need to understand something....

can someone please tell me how in the world people can support this industry (i refuse to call it a sport)? i see nothing but ugliness to it all, although i admit, i only hear the "horror stories" like barbaro and eight belles. i just really am having a hard time understanding the motivation for this industry and really, who ultimately benefits from all of this. does the horse? i know the owners, trainers and jockeys do, but what about the horse?

i have been in debates and read other boards/forums on this subject and some people say that "thoroughbreds are born to run and they are completely happy when doing so". okay - i get that part, but is it necessary to have them run themselves into the ground and risking a catastrophic injury that could possibly end their life? where is their voice in all of this?

what about all the horses that are bred each year that "do not make the cut" or do not turn out to be "racing material"? i know about all your guys' efforts re: the anti-slaughter bills and i commend you for that, but how can you still support this industry knowning that you cannot save all the horses and the only absolute way of saving ALL OF THOSE HORSES is to stop supporting the industry. i know that this will never happen, but i honestly, just want to understand where you all are coming from.

i know by my words, it might seem like i am a peta employee, which i assure you, i am not, but i am a true animal lover. and, i am not out to bash anyone, but i honestly, cannot understand the reasoning behind what most of you call a "sport". please someone...enlighten me....

thank you.

first time posting anything on this site...

i haven't been to this site in quite a longtime and used to come here everyday to check on the status of barbaro....haven't been back since he passed...

i know i am probably going to get a lot of flack for posting it, but i really need to understand something....

can someone please tell me how in the world people can support this industry (i refuse to call it a sport)? i see nothing but ugliness to it all, although i admit, i only hear the "horror stories" like barbaro and eight belles. i just really am having a hard time understanding the motivation for this industry and really, who ultimately benefits from all of this. does the horse? i know the owners, trainers and jockeys do, but what about the horse?

i have been in debates and read other boards/forums on this subject and some people say that "thoroughbreds are born to run and they are completely happy when doing so". okay - i get that part, but is it necessary to have them run themselves into the ground and risking a catastrophic injury that could possibly end their life? where is their voice in all of this?

what about all the horses that are bred each year that "do not make the cut" or do not turn out to be "racing material"? i know about all your guys' efforts re: the anti-slaughter bills and i commend you for that, but how can you still support this industry knowning that you cannot save all the horses and the only absolute way of saving ALL OF THOSE HORSES is to stop supporting the industry. i know that this will never happen, but i honestly, just want to understand where you all are coming from.

i know by my words, it might seem like i am a peta employee, which i assure you, i am not, but i am a true animal lover. and, i am not out to bash anyone, but i honestly, cannot understand the reasoning behind what most of you call a "sport". please someone...enlighten me....

thank you.

http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/story?id=4786915&page=1

abc news on line

Hey Dawn,

Sounds like you would like to meet the people in the industry. Get to know them, then come to your own conclusions. I'm lucky to have gotten to know many great people in the industry.

I don't know where you live or even if you're near a track or racing farm but I can introduce you to Tim and Penny Woolley via the internet. Two of the nicest people and they love their horses. Read their blog and you'll learn about the horses they train and all their personalities. Plus you can learn about the training and racing. It's not nearly as good as actually being there but it's a start via the internet.

There are some cool racehorse owners who are contributors to this board like ShelleyA. We all live vicariously through her and her race horses. Boy are they gorgeous!

At any rate, meet the people first hand. I don't know but I'm going to guess that you'll be surprised at the amount of compassion that is displayed by the people in the industry for their horses.

I support the industry because I love the beauty and grace of the thoroughbred and I know there are many within it who do the right thing by their horses.

55 HORSE DEATHS IN TWO YEARS AT DEL MAR RACE TRACK 2004-2006 So how many other equine deaths are there every year that go unnoticed in a sport that's largely ignored on a day-to-day basis? Let's just take one track, like Del Mar near San Diego: 55 deaths from 2004-06, says the San Diego Union-Tribune

Cheryl Jones -

Regarding your comment tagged at 3:43pm: BRAVO!!

Chris -

It'll probably take a few days to get the necropsy report done. They'll perform the necropsy (they usually use a dictation tape recorder) and then it has to be transcribed (typed up). They'll most likely have lab work that will need to be done too.

-Julie

thanks wndyinmi...however, it was not my intention to come across as thinking that these trainers or owners are bad people or not nice, in fact in reading a lot of posts when i frequented this site a year or two ago, most of you seem like great people, but i just wanted my questions answered as to what the motivations are behind horse racing.

i am sure it is a beautiful and graceful thing to watch a thoroughbred run. i am not debating that, but i would only love to see this in a field or a meadow...not a racetrack (much less a dirt track).
side note: i also think a ban on whips would be interesting...if they love to run they will run right?

i just simply want someone to explain to me how this all makes sense. because i do not understand it. why are horses run so young in age? why are hundreds of thousands bred each year only to be put down under the same circumstances of barbaro or eight belles not to mention the hundred of thousands that are slaughtered because they are deemed "useless"? i am sure the upside to most of you is watching what you think is a beautiful, graceful horse cross that finish line doing what they love to do is a great thing, however, what about the flipside? the ugly times like this past satruday or the sheer thought that for every horse that was out on the track that day, there are 1,000 more that are being auctioned off to slaughterhouses. i'm guessing the good outweighs the bad here?

again, i do not mean to sound ignorant, but really -i just want some sort of meaning to all of this, something that justifies events like this past saturday or what happenned to barbaro.

thanks..

http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/horse/triplecrown08/columns/story?columnist=moran_paul&id=3380352

It is not insignificant that Eight Belles was withdrawn from Friday's Kentucky Oaks, which was won by her stablemate, Proud Spell. But a decision by owner Rick Porter to run probably the best 3-year-old filly in the nation against 19 males in the Derby put her in the precarious position that she overcame on sheer talent at the cost of her life. She proved her owner's point, but the cost was far too great.

Thanks Julie Z. Blood work usually takes weeks to get results back - toxicology reports.

A NEW WEEK AT JOE'S
****************************************************
Monday, May 5th... There are letters saying I must have fallen on my head. Descriptions of 4 pictures below do not match what you are seeing. All you have to do is hit F5, which is your Refresh key. Each morning I show 4 new pictures. F5 will get you there.

One night a week I go to a beginners computer class in Natomas. There is a man my age and we sit together. He looks just like Alan Alda from MASH. I have no idea why I am telling you this. It is a beautiful Monday morning, the coffee is from Dunkin Doughnuts, and microwave waffles were made by Eggo. Later we could be 84 degrees. Right outside my window old mares are flirting with young geldings. The blind mare Georgia waits for her morning banana. Lisa Wallace comes this week to take out her stitches. Georgia had an eye removed, along with a giant tumor. A busy week coming up. Kids from a youth shelter in Sacramento will visit. Two race horses will come to us from a track in Los Angeles. A young thoroughbred gelding arrives tomorrow from a feed lot in Vallejo. We will say goodbye to a gelding and a filly who were both recently adopted. I found a great home for a sweet pony living in Vacaville, and tomorrow Ryans Andrews transports him to Placerville. Daily on our ranch we say hello to a thousand piles of new poop. Weeds up to my giant nose. We could smell rain last night. Lightning in the sky, but our ranch stayed dry.

Jodi Tuft threw a bash in Dixon yesterday, and I walked around and broke things. All kinds of vendors, including a nice lady who was selling statues of horses. The lady makes these statues herself. I picked one up and somehow it broke, and suddenly I am the new owner of a broken statue. I needed to borrow $5.00 from Tim Gee to complete the transaction. A man from Vacaville Tractor wanted to sell me a tractor, but I told him I just had to borrow $5.00, and by the way thank goodness for Noelle Bicker who last year adopted Charley Pink. Noelle looks just like Kelly Clarkston, at least I think so, and a nicer girl you will never meet. Noelle baked amazing goodies for the Friends Of Tbfriends booth, and since I am poor from having to buy a broken statue, and Tim Gee was embarrassed and left me, I ate baked treats from Noelle and tried to blend in. I saw Nicole, and she looks just like Sandra Bullock, at least I think so. I met lots of people who send us e-mails, and it was nice to put a face with the name. I saw Middle Town Road, a gelding who was just adopted from our ranch, and farrier Steve Stieb gave him new front shoes. I saw Good Doctor Slew, a gelding who was adopted from our ranch at least 5 years ago, and he looks perfect. There was Tarzan, a gelding with issues, and Jodi has done an amazing job with him.

I would like to Thank those who did so much work for the Friends Of Tbfriends booth. Georgia Hartman. Mike & Kathy Monoghan. Vickie Duncan. Noelle Bicker. Gerry Hartman. And Betsy Sholes, and it was good to meet her.

I saw Brenda and her family, and they adopted Micro Brew. Anika from Davis, and she just adopted Turbo. I got to meet Simone, and long ago she became the new owner of Thirty Five Black. Ritzy, or it could be Rickie, a sweet lady who owns Cooper, a thoroughbred who came from our ranch and now he is 30. I met Robert for the first time, he looks just like Nick Nolte, at least I think so.

At one point, right around noon, there were at least 300 people at this party. All kinds of horses. Many different breeds...

Enjoy your busy Monday, and be sure to hug your horses.

Joe

Im very very sad that we lost Eight Belle, but I do thank God the rest that got home safe.

Thank you God.

Thank you for the post Jonna :)
Prayers for Chelokee and for Eight Belles.

Eight Belles was all heart and all courage. It says alot for what she did, "What a Lady"
RIP

Just heard from another of my friends from where we play music - he was on my mass email list of non-FOBs I sent the MO action alert to. He reports he just send all the emails. I'm impressed! (He is a RN and used to ride Saddlebreds.)

Maybe some of you have friends/acquaintances who will join us in doing this. Doesn't hurt to ask . . . I never would have thought anybody would do this with us, the sheer volume of the undertaking.

Dawn,

It is wonderful to see you again and I do remember you. If you want your questions answered read this book Freedom's Rein by Shane Sellers and Tricia Psarreas.
Shane is a KD winning jockey who took the plight of the horses and jockeys into his own hands and got banned. What a shame.

Read my post yesterday at 10:15, she is a very smart journalist and she would be good to have on our side. Read Nick Zito' quote. Pure greed. IMO no flack please only good conversation.

I agree with wendy. There are very good trainers and owners in the industry, you have to find them. We found the Jackson's. They want speed too much speed on the tracks.Did gender matter? no she had second place. The Breeders Cup is a good example last years. George Washington did not have to die.They are born runner's. What is never discussed here is the fact, that they are FLIGHT animals they run from anything and everything that does not move. All real horse people can understand that one. I have educated myself over the last two years so I know what I am saying.(Not all) I work at a rescue we get TB's from the track not in good shape. We have a wonderful one he came to us CRIPPLED it took us a year to get him on all four legs and standing again. He was ran until he could not stand.I love him dearly and always have his favorite Peppermints for him.

All I do is state the facts,people in everyday life would rather not hear or see,nor do I at times,it hurts. It is difficult to comprehend that this does go on.

As I said there are good owners and trainers.

I would trust Tim and Alex anyday to train my horses.

CJ,
I have been approached this morning by many friends here at work to talk about Belles. I told them to write and express their feelilngs and offered to help in any way I can. Looks good, they agree.

## Renee, I just love you for working at that rescue and helping that poor racehorse, and all the other horses too. I'm so glad you are an FOB, you make me proud.

EXTRA MONDAY 5/05 NATIONAL TARGET LIST (HAHS)

Today's extra HAHS List is now posted below and at this DB Thread:

http://forums.delphiforums.com/alexbrown/messages?msg=23243.1

Stress the importance of cosponsorship & getting S 311/HR 503 to a vote.

Heads-Up - per Daryl Smoliak's feedback/request: Ask the Sens who may support (plan to vote for) S 311 but don't want to cosponsor, to send a brief "letter of support" to Sen Mary Landrieu, sponsor of the Senate Bill. Similarly - ask Reps in that position re HR 503, to send such a "letter of support" to Rep. Janice D. Schakowsky, sponsor of the House Bill.

Here's something to add to ALL your contacts please - and the 800 numbers for your convenience on all calls.

IMO - convey the website vetsforequinewelfare.org to all your contacts - to counteract the position of the 2 big vet ass'ns. Links to VEW's two 2007 antislaughter releases and their recently-released 2008 WHITE PAPER are in the DB Thread noted above.

Use these DC 800 numbers and ask for the legislators by name (or ask for extension, last 5 numbers of each legislator's office phone).

800-828-0498

800-828-1887

800-614-2803

You know the drill - don't address this list until AFTER you have followed today's ABR/AAHS Strategy and the instructions of your Group Leader (and if you don't have one, get one, or become one!) - contact our intrepid State Group co-ordinator, Stephanie Breaux sbreaux1@verizon.net

AND use the CURRENT/NEW Talking Points from ABR Strategy when contacting this extra HAHS list as well as when contacting the ABR daily lists.

1. Let [the legislators] know that two of the slaughter houses in this country are closed permanently [since January], and the third (Cavel) has lost their appeal and [is now also closed]. It is URGENT that we now get this legislation passed to STOP THE TRANSPORT of horses to Canada and Mexico. It's VERY important that you stress the cruel and inhumane way these horses are transported. Now is the time to focus on the fact that closing down our slaughter houses is NOT enough but that we must pass this FEDERAL legislation to stop the transport of American horses for slaughter.

2. Let your Senators know that we NEED them as co-sponsors for S311 to get this on the calendar and to the floor for a vote.

3. Tell your Congressman that we need their cosponsorship for HR503 to get this bill out of committee and to the floor for a vote.

4. Dispel the "unwanted" horse theory. Read John Holland's information for more talking points.

5. Closing of all three slaughter houses in the United States helps to reinforce our efforts. We can now dispel the idea that American jobs will be lost due to the end of slaughter. Only Mexico and Canada will now profit from OUR horses being slaughtered!! This is a very important point and one that you should all make when talking to your legislators.

Rhetorial Question Du Jour:
ANY EXTRA TIME/ENERGY/PASSION FOR THE HORSES?
Here is today's (Monday 5/05/08) extra National Target List from HAHS (Humanity Against Horse Slaughter). These legislators are targeted by other groups on specific days, so our voices add to the impact.

Don't forget to mention S 311 (Senators) & HR 503 (Representatives); ask them to cosponsor - and please use the Talking Points from the ABR Strategy (posted above), reasons why to support the end of horse slaughter and export for slaughter NOW.

Changed Circumstances call for a Fresh Look with an Open Mind. The closure of Cavel is a HUGE changed circumstance.

PLEASE NOTE: Per the ongoing ABR national strategy "...[I]t is important when you make your calls, you request they support and VOTE YES for ANY legislative measure that will ban horse slaughter and export for slaughter. In addition to the Daily Call List, please contact your own senators and representative with this message."

adding this CAVEAT from recent ABR Strategy:

"Remember…….these calls are to gain co-sponsors and support for HR503 and S311. As difficult as it is, please concentrate on the transport of the horses to slaughter more than the conditions in Mexico. We can’t let anyone who is not well informed come to the conclusion that it would be better to have the plants in this country because of the conditions in Mexico."

Monday 5/05 Extra HAHS List 

Prior HS History - All the Senators on today's list voted for the Ensign-Byrd Agriculture Appropriations Amendment in September 2005. Only Martinez (FL) cosponsored S 1915 in the 109th Congress.

FLORIDA (2nd part)
Senator Mel Martinez (cosponsored S 1915)
Fax: 202-228-5171 Phone: 202-224-3041
356 Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510-0904

GEORGIA
Senator Saxby Chambliss
Fax: 202-224-0103 Phone: 202-224-3521
416 Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510-1005

Senator Johnny Isakson
Fax: 202-228-0724 Phone: 202-224-3643
Washington, D.C. 20510-1004

INDIANA
Senator Richard G. Lugar
Fax: 202-228-0360 Phone: 202-224-4814
306 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510-1401

IF you're done with today's ABR/AAHS Instructions & State directions & the above list and STILL want to do more - you can go to post 2 of the DB Thread noted above, for a good alternate target list of Senators compiled by AWI/SAPL.

Pls email me potlucky@sbcglobal.net re specific details re your HAHS contacts, such as what concerns an aide may have expressed, whether you were told the legislator "supports" the bill, did they tell you they only consider input from constitutents, or that he/she doesn't cosponsor due to a committee or leadership position, anything like that. I will make sure our strategy experts are duly advised; this kind of feedback factors into future plans.

THANK YOU ALL FOR ALL THAT YOU DO FOR THE HORSES! GO GET EM.

Do it for GEORGE and JOHN and BARBARO
And all the ONEs we never got to know -
And for EIGHT BELLES - another gallant one
Who loved to run . . .

STILL LIVING PROOF OF THE LIVING TRUTH

Hope Peace Love Music & RESPECT - CJ the craziest catlady (Blackie's Mother Forever & Shona's Aunt) in Hammond IN, f/k/a CJ of T Bar J (Elgin IL)

I saw an interview by Dr. Richardson on Fox News this morning in which he said this kind of injury to both forelegs is extremely rare.

I read on Saturday that Chelokee's injury occurred when he was changing leads. Yesterday I read one report that Eight Belles went down right after she changed leads. The short video of her accident certainly looks as if she is changing, unless that is the actual stumble.

Question for Alex: Is lead changing an especially risky time?

"Our Sacred Journey In Rainbows"

From God's Loving Heart
The Most Beautiful Rainbow Barbaro
Eight Belles Glowing In The Sky
Our Angel Horses
Barbaro's Famblee Of So, So So Beautiful Angels Here
Together In Love And Support
Traveling On The Yellow Brick Road
On The Rainbow
Angels All around
Barbaro's Halo Is Glowing So, So So Beautifully
All The Colors Of The Rainbow
The Circle Of Love
In Hearts
In Roses
In Halos
The Circle Of Angels
There For Another
The Circle Of Prayer
Chelokee
God's Helping Hand
The Rainbow Of Our Sacred Journey
Divine Inspiration
Planting The Seeds Of Hope
Many Special Blessings
Glowing.......

8.......Halos......Two Hearts......Connected In
Love.......Our Angel Horses Are With Us.......
All, All All Spiritual Presence.......

Affirmed Rainbows......
Sacred Prayers......

Affirmed Prayers.......
God And The Angels Are With You......

Bluebird Barbaro........
Lifting Us Up........

Affirmed Wings.......
Glowing.......

Affirmed

###
Family...let us be very positive...we are going to be heard from Churchill, to stopping horse slaughter, from helping the rescues, from educating, and finding cures for laminitis.

The old saying: Little pot do not call the kettle black until you have been in the fire as long as he has.....

We are the FOBS...WE MAKE THINGS HAPPEN...WE ARE A FAMILY OF LOVE AND GOOD, CARE...AND JOY...WE ARE THE ONES THAT LIVE IN BARBARO'S HOUSE...

### I am writing my nice polite yet firm in my stance letter to churchill this week about changing surfaces. It will be full of facts but also my feelings as a lifelong fan. I hope that it will be the first of many from the FOB's, especially because many of us plan to be there when the unveiling of Barbaro's statue is done. Please everybody, do this. Let our voices be heard. Jen

This was posted over on the Rockport Harbor website by their Administrator:

I'd like to answer some questions that I've seen asked here.

For those who would like to send letters or cards, you can send to:

Fox Hill Farm
PO Box 24255
Lexington, KY 40524

In addition to Rick and Betsy, of course, I will make sure to get to Cindy, Larry, Gabe and others any that are addressed to their attention.

We do not know yet where we'll have Eight Belles buried. We will let you know as soon as we have made a decision.

Regarding making charitable contributions in her honor, we think that is a lovely thing to do. We will be talking soon about anything regarding fundraising or charitable giving that we plan to spearhead or participate in the name of Eight Belles.

Thanks again for all the kind wishes. We understand that many of you are also in pain, so we extend our best wishes to you as well.

#Karen,that article Paul Moran wrote before the Derby about Eight Belles was his opinion. Id like to share another article written about Eight Belles before the Derby also that takes the opposite view. I think he was right on because she came in 2nd!! She beat the boys!! 18 of the best in the country as a matter of fact!! People should realize that colts vs. fillies in Europe is not rare at all. Now re. her breakdown,damn right Im freaked out,until horses are bred for stamina instead of speed we have to go with the synthetic tracks!! Someone asked yesterday if breeding will change for synthetics,yes! Out here in Ca. which already have the synthetics speed is no longer the only deciding factor on who does well in a race. Of course some are whining but but there are many more trainers who are speaking up for the synthetics. The biggest problem now is we are still in the learning stage re. maintenance issues. The drainage problems happened because Santa Anita had tweaked the ingredients because they were concerned about heat affecting it. Obviously that was a mistake! And Del Mar made a mistake also when they tweaked theirs(polytrack vs.cushiontrack at SA,HP) due to being next to the ocean and having to comply with environmental laws(hey we're Ca;we care about that stuff! LOL)
*In regards to Eight Belles color,she was a dark gray,charcoal. Ruffian was dk bay/brown but looked black.

From: nancyHB May-2 6:47 pm
To: ALL

23078.1

April 29, 2008, 1:54 pm
Why the Filly Has a Chance
By Jim Squires

If a filly is to ever again win the Kentucky Derby — which Fox Hill Farm’s Eight Belles will apparently get the opportunity to do come Saturday — nothing could be more fitting than for her to be trained by Larry Jones, the friendly guy with the big hat.

Eight Belles at Churchill Downs, with the trainer Larry Jones aboard. (Garry Jones/Associated Press)
Thanks mostly to the exploits of Hard Spun, the iron horse who contested every step of the 2007 Triple Crown trail, Jones’s bowlegs, long stirrups and cowboy chaps are now a regular curiosity on the backstretch of virtually every big race. Astride his mountainous yellow lead pony Pal, he is as readily identifiable as the white-haired Bob Baffert or the the nattily turned-out D. Wayne Lukas.

But it was neither Pal nor Hard Spun that Jones rode from the obscurity of Ellis Park, the hardscrabble Western Kentucky track that once boasted a corn crop in its infield. It was a bunch of blisteringly fast fillies, the likes of Josh’s Madelyn, who won two Grade II races and nearly a half-million dollars, and Island Sand, who won the Grade I Acorn and the $1 million Delaware Handicap.

Little wonder then that two of best 3-year-olds in the country this year are fillies in his barn, each more than qualified in both graded stakes earnings and racing credentials to contest the world’s greatest horse race. Eight Belles, a big imposing gray, will be entered in both the Oaks and the Derby, with a bad post position draw on Wednesday the only obstacle remaining in an otherwise certain date with 19 colts. The other, Proud Spell, a tiny bay with a cool head and a giant heart, is headed to the Oaks, in what Jones says without a hint of arrogance is his only possible chance at winning both races.

There is no question Proud Spell can win the Oaks. No 3-year-old of either gender has better a race record. In seven lifetimes starts, she has won four times, including two graded stakes; finished second in two others, including the Grade I Breeders Cup Juvenile Championship last fall; and finished third in the Grade I Ashland at Keeneland earlier this month. She is ranked second on the Derby eligibility list only to Pyro, with graded stakes earnings of $880,000.

The filly Eight Belles is undefeated in four starts this year. (Garry Jones/Associated Press)
Yet most so-called experts believe that Eight Belles, winner of five races, second in two others and undefeated in four starts this year, has a better chance against the colts, mainly they say because she is bigger and more formidable looking than Proud Spell. Of course no one has offered any statistical or scientific evidence that size makes much difference to racehorses. Speed and heart seem to have more to do with it. And Jones-trained fillies always seem to have plenty of both.

Any doubt to the speed part should have been dispelled Sunday morning when working back-to-back, Eight Belles and Proud Spell blistered the Churchill Downs main track dirt in the second- and third-fastest five-furlong drills of the day, 58.20 and 58.40 seconds. Only massive and celebrated Colonel John, working for the first time on dirt, stopped the clock in 57.80 and immediately became the favorite of Churchill Downs backside habitués, at least until Big Brown gets to town. But according to Brisnet speed ratings, one of handicappers’ most prized tools, Colonel John has yet to break 100 in six races, 98 being his best. Proud Spell, meanwhile, has run a 99, a 100 and a 102, and Eight Belles has hit a 99 twice and a 103. Big Brown has scored the highest with a 110 in the Florida Derby and a 102 in an impressive allowance race.

But the fastest horses in pre-Derby works are not always the fastest on Derby day. Experience is often more important. And in that comparison, Jones’s fillies have both the big boys and a lot of the other Derby candidates at a distinct disadvantage. Big Brown, for example, sure to be one of the favorites, has run only three races. And the Colonel from California has yet to run a race on dirt.

Undoubtedly it is the lessons of Derby history in particular and male dominance in horse racing generally that has Big Brown 7-2 and Colonel John 5-1 in the minds of learned oddsmakers while both Jones fillies are 40-1 long shots.

Conventional wisdom holds that colts are generally bigger and stronger than fillies and as a result of having testicles instead of ovaries naturally intimidate the fillies, causing them to give up. Females don’t have a lot of influence in racing conventional wisdom, which of course sent Giacomo off at 50-1.

Breeders of racehorses often see things differently. A lot of fillies, especially until they are 3 or 4 years old, are stronger and faster than the colts. Like humans, they tend to mature earlier and get their act together physically and mentally before the colts do.

In fact, 3-year-old races may be the best time for the girls to take on the boys. Anyone who has been watching Proud Spell run since she was a beginning 2-year-old in Jones’s barn will attest they haven’t made the horse that can force her to give up. She was once a workmate of another filly in Jones’ barn named Once Is Enough, who was born and raised on my farm, and who was leading her maiden race by six lengths when she suffered a slab fracture of her knee. Once is Enough grew up with colts and never saw one she couldn’t run into the ground.

Forget that nonsense that intimidation is a male prerogative in the equine world, too. Young females often run the colts off their food in the pasture. And a lot of big handsome colts have had to be moved to safer quarters just to protect them from a dominant, mean-tempered little filly. Ask the people who worked for Todd Pletcher about the toughest 3-year-old in that herd they had contesting the Triple Crown last year which one was most intimidating to working company in the morning.

If Curlin could talk, he could tell you how intimidated that filly was in the stretch at Belmont. You’d think Rags to Riches would have stopped some of this nonsense by now.

What keeps horses from winning the Kentucky Derby has nothing to do with gender. It is the excitement of the cavalry charge from the gate to the first turn that saps their energy and leaves them breathless and staggering with a furlong left to go. When the door slams at the eighth pole, it hits both colt and filly with equal force.

But there are two big obstacles for fillies facing colts for the first time, that could be easily overcome by experience in earlier prep races. When running against one another, fillies do a lot of talking in the gate, shrill whinnying for the most part. But the sound of colts in the gates is different, more slamming around, grunting and snorting. Colts seldom whinny in a race gate. This can be unnerving to fillies, who are often in a hurry to leave, sapping adrenaline as object of a chase.

The other is that fillies don’t run the longer races as preps. Eight Belles has never run longer than a mile and a sixteenth, while several of the colts have contested one or more contests of a mile and an eighth. Of course, Rags to Riches had never run a mile and a half, and grunting, snorting boys didn’t bother her a bit.

6 comments so far...
1.
April 29th,
2008
3:49 pm
I much prefer Eight Belles over the majority of the Derby field; my biggest knock on her is that she sometimes breaks slowly and hasn’t faced any major traffic troubles in her previous races (although having said that, she’s at least had a fair number of previous races).

It’s easy to forget that the major reason colts and fillies are often segregated here has more to do with purse structure in the US than anything else; the rest of the world seems to do just fine with ‘co-ed’ races, producing top-class mares like Makybe Diva, Ouija Board, Miss Andretti, Sun Classique et al.

— Posted by Superfecta

2.

My heart is so broken over Eight Belles. These horses are too young and still developing to be pushed so hard. She wanted to win so badly, and could not bare the sight of Big Brown passing her. She ran her little heart out, and her body could not withstand it. Truly there is blame to be evenly spread, but the truth lies in what happens now. God wanted her back, as he did with Barbaro so that the racing industry may learn a great lesson from all of this. I am truly sick over the immage of her lying there after giving her very all, and she is the only money I won on that race. I could never keep it, and I hope all of you will feel the same. Let's make her death a lesson to all and more closely examine the way they push such youngsters too soon on too hard of surfaces. God bless you Eight Belles, be with Barbaro...for you were stolen too soon at the errors of man. I will remember your driving victory to win, and use it my own life to go farther than expected. I cannot even watch another race for now, after this weekend with Chelokee and now this.. I question if I have enough heart to have broken again when another pony goes down to injury. I love them too deeply. Thank God for this sight, so I know I'm not alone in my love for these creatures and their well being.

Bobbie B.,
Lots of love coming back to you. I am fulfilling a childhood dream. It is wonderful and happened at the right time in my life. I have worked with broken children it is important and the rewards ar so great.

To see a child or horse come in broken down then after working with them, one day they emerge with their head held high and trust has been renewed.
That is the reward of the heart that no one can ever take a way.

We are now looking to expand, we are getting bigger and will be even better than now.

"Eveything We Do Is For The Horses". Our logo and proud of it.

## Renee, I am going off the computer right now to go write a check to the Horse Protection Society of North Carolina. I try to send them a little something all along, but you have inspired me. I'm going to send it in honor of Chelokee and all like him who need prayers and help. Thanks Fren :>)

All these people that call for banning racing---without racing the would be NO HORSES...
They dont breed horses for sums of 500k to look at. They are born to race.

You Rock Bobbie B!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Any update on Chelokee? I believe his surgery was today.

Mike C:)

Not 'banning', just 'safer'...that is all...safer.

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

William K, nothing yet...holding my breath. The old adage no news is good news lets hope.

Renee,

Thanks. I'm anxious too. By the way, I like your spunk.

###
MIKE C - echoing Lynne Brown, not banning - just SAFER with all the abuses legislated out of existence, and with that legislation ENFORCEDq

###
MIKE C - echoing Lynne Brown, not banning - just SAFER with all the abuses legislated out of existence, and with that legislation ENFORCED!

Sorry for the double post - VERY funky computer today!

I can't find an update on Chelokee either.

Meanwhile....in the MHR ob/gyn dept., Jerri is still being just Jerri.

Renee, when I get back east I'll visit. I have about 24 visits to make from Raleigh, NC to Old Orchard Beach, ME.

Nancy in Ct., good to see you here hope all is well!
-Joanne

Margie,
That will be wonderful!

I think Jerri is pullling a Rosie, perpetually pregnant. LOL She is beautiful!

Thank you William K. When I believe I believe all the way. :) I don't give up, I may escape but I don't give up. It's nice to have you with us.

Alex,
When the horses are done after the three days, are they brought back in their trailers,and are some flown back?

I have to go to ESPN to watch this,,,what in heaven's name are they suspending (not banned, you get suspended in racing)....I just cannot look again. Look at Patrick Biancone...a trainer with cobra venom in a fridge in his barn...There is no reason to have this.
Leave the jockey, Rick and Larry alone. It was a tragedy all around. But Rick and Larry are good people....
SusanW

Hugs and congrats to Big Brown and his white spot. I heard you were great, fella. I have you on tape and I'll watch it soon. Be safe.

While we wait for a Chelokee update, and some action from Jerri, I'm going out for a ride (bicycle). I just wish they made wide body seats. I usually can't walk right for 2 days after. I was trying to think of a way to mount a picnic table bench on the bike.

Hay yole, never underestimate the power of the FOBs. You prayed for Chief and lit candles and he is MUCH better. Chief and I are so grateful for ALL of yole.He still sleeps a lot (if off his prestone (sp?) now but only has a little problem with his leg like once or twice a day. He is 90% improved. He finished his last can of I.D. meat food yesterday and this morning looked so disappointed when he only got his regular food. Well, I had a little bit left in a can so I mixed it up with his food and he gobbled it down. The vet wants him to be only on his dry diet food. I am thinking about getting a few more cans and at least for awhile (or the rest of his life ) mixing the meat food with his dry food. The vet wants some weight off of him. Good gosh, he is almost 13 and I guess I am a softie but I want him to be happy. He is getting very few nilla wafers now and that is okay. He just looks so disappointed when he doesnt get the meat food. Hay, jonna, queen of feeding dogs tell me if I am wrong. Anyway, thank you all.

Renee,

Thanks, I like it here. I've been reading since Barbaro was injured. I've only posted a few times. Mosly of late. There is an abundance of knowlege here.

##

There is a new update at equine heaven, if any of yole might be interested...

Haven't seen 'our' Sandra yet today, hoping all is well with she and *CHIEF*!!

I sent the e-mails to the MO Senators...been reading 'alotsa' feedback from my fellow team mates here in CA....and some from my own team members in LA and even WA:) GOSH!! It's just SO GREAT when we leederladeees get 'feed back':) thanks everyone for your hard work and determination to SAVE OUR AMERICAN HORSES!!!

RED/WHITE/BARBARO.....YES, INDEED!!! :)

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Sandra, I am so happy for you and Chief. And we won't stop praying. My 13 year old was put on a diet by the vet and I felt the same way that you do. I wanted Lucky to be happy. But with his mobility issues, the vet felt it best that he didn't have the extra weight to lug around. It was painful for me, but Lucky lost 18 pounds and did much, much, better. I also cut way down on his meat. He gets chicken, rice, and vegetables. Along with a teensy bit of wahtever I eat. Keep going!

Went to bed last night thinking of Eight Belles and got up this morning thinking about her. My local paper (dist. 200,000) had a very large writeup on her yesterday and today. Fox news had the story on several times yesterday and so did other stations. I wish they would stop showing the picture of her laying on the track. The FOBs were hit hard yesterday and were hurting (as we are still today) but we will drag ourselves up and go forward with the tasks Barbaro left us to do.

William,
When I got here I knew just basic horse info, now between everyone here and educating myself. It is so much easier then two year ago. Please stay with us. It is a great place with the people to match.

##

SANDRA:) Yipppppppppeeeeeeee-Skippppppppppyyyyy