Good morning to the undeated Barbaro and beautiful Eight Belles. You are both loved and missed.

Lisa in Colorado

Missing Barbaro and mourning Eight Belles. I find peace in knowing that you are in Heaven, running free, safe, and whole.

Loved forever. So many gone too soon.

Bonnie
Florida FOB

Good morning, FsOB! I loved what Sandra said late last night, which she attributed to another FOB, that we have been "hoof chosen by Barbaro". May we continue our efforts for passage of Federal legislation, in light of the proposed legislation in Missouri. Our hearts are heavy, but we have been "hoof chosen by Barbaro" to continue our efforts. May each citizen of the Barbaro Nation have a safe & productive day. Peace, RMH

Morning all. Love to Barbaro. Thnaks Alex

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

On their behalf, this very day:

MORNING POST, SHELLEYA, DEBRA, WI/AAHS:

STRATEGY FOR TUESDAY MAY 6

The Missouri Senate has adjourned until tomorrow at 10am. That said, let's continue to make our voices heard!! C'mon everybody, let's kick it up a notch!! OPPOSE the Missouri Senate Concurrent Resolution 35!!

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 AND COULD COME UP ON TUESDAY, MAY 6TH!

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 6, 2008 3:12 AM

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

Rut ro. I'm 6th today.

I must be the sleepyhead!!!

Rob

Good Morning Barbaro

Saw you on tv last night with Dr. Richardson and my heart busted to pieces....a horse that I have never met...but has a huge impact on my heart. Barbaro...you were God chosen...and God put you here and kept you here among us...to give us time to bond, to be strong, and to carry out many tasks.

I truly believe God use you to be a leader for all of us to follow to protect His creations, the beautiful horses...to help animals...

Good Morning Family

We are family...we are all hurting, we are angry, we are sad, but we as family share different emotions...but we are still FAMILY OF LOVE.

Please call, fax, email...please...we have to stop horse slaughter, stop transportation across borders, to stop this nonsense on what Missouri legislators are trying to impose....WE THE FOBS...CAN AND WILL MAKE WAVES...WE CAN MAKE IT HAPPEN....WE ARE LEAD BY A BEAUTIFUL BAY CALLED BARBARO.

Remember and help our rescues, our Fallen Angels, the ones suffering human or animal, our wildlife, and each other our loving family.

Have a nice day.

####
Good Morning Alex...you are a true friend.
Good Morning Tim and Fair Hill.
Our precious Fallen Angels...we are here.

#####
I have thought all night about Ruffian and Eight Belles. The trainers, the exercise riders, andthe groomers are with these precious horses day in and day out...they know, smell, care, and know what and when they are able to do this and that.

Owners of football teams...like the coach make the plays...etc...these owners of these beautiful creatures...should leave the final call on what and where these horses should run....and these trainers should have no fear from losing their job or reputation or being black balled.

Ruffian and Eight Belles' trainers...did not want to run these magnificent horses...but the owners insisted...things need to be changed.

Churchill Downs...needs to change...it should be their priority...the safety of the horses and riders...period. change the tracks...

Please write letters to Churchill Downs...sensibly that we want changes.

I was proud of Bo Derek...also...for talking about horse slaughter....on national tv.

Also...which I do not completley agree what Jill stated on Bill O'Reilly last night...but yes horses are born to run...but not on drugs, steriods, and other conditions...give them a change to mature and run on there on ability...not enhanced by steriods.

We family...have been knocked down several times...we get hurt, we get angry...but we were chosen just like Barbaro....to wake up the sleeping giant Congress.

Sen. Craig needs to get out of his stall...were he feels safe and do something bold and good in his life...and put Barbaro's bill on the floor.

NEVER GIVE UP FAMILY...WE ARE HERE TO STAY...ANDI AM SO PROUD OF EACH OF YOU.

####
Jerri...we are praying for you and your baby to come...

####
What I meant...the horse owners...should let the trainers...make the final call for the best of the horses.

Good morning all. I don't post much, but come here many times a day knowing there are so many others who can understand my thoughts and feelings.

Like you Joan, Barbaro has a place in my heart forever. I had someone ask me yesterday how I got so attached to him and it is so hard to explain about the feelings for a horse I had never met. At least half of the people I work with came to me asking how I was because of Eight Belles. They knew I would be upset. Of course I take the opportunity to share about horse slaughter and what needs to be done to pass HR503/S311.

By the way does anyone know if there is a way to go back and read previous posts of Equine Heaven?

Have a great day all.

Alex - thank you for posting the Paul Moran article. It is true that females take on the males in Europe and don't seem to come to harm. On Sunday, the 4-year old filly Enticing (in Barbaro's colours) took on the colts over 5 furlongs on the turf at Newmarket. She had been a brilliant 2-year old and was put in against much older colts on the last day of that season. She finished nowhere, but came out as a 3-year old and smashed the course record at Bath. She finished third in good company on Sunday, so is still doing well. Another difference with our UK racing is that in the coverage cameras never dwell on any horse or jockey who is injured and there are never replays of an accident unless the horse and rider get up safely. We had two Classics on Saturday and Sunday and all horses returned safe and well. Henrythenavigator and Natagora were returned champions in good, competitive races and there was a brilliant performance in one of the other races by the French 5-year old Getaway. I wish your racing could have had such happy end results.

I was so sorry to hear of what happened to Eight Belles. There has been reporting of her tragic accident over on this side of the pond. Here is just one of the articles (I'm sorry about the inaccurate reference to Barbaro in it):

Dirt and drugs undermine American racing's big day

Good Morning All,

Still time to place bets on time/date of birth for Jerri's foal. She seems very uncomfortable, reports that she actually groaned last night lying down.

">Guess the Birth

####John...well said. Thank you. Let them all come home safe...

Good Tuesday morning FOBs,

Joan Roya - very well said as are many other comments by the FOBs re: the Eight Belles tragedy.

If anyone/everyone could spare a prayer or kind thought - Kaiser is at the Vet today for a radiograph and checkup. More than likely the leg will be splinted again, but that's OK - just don't want any surprise bad news like we had a few weeks ago.

Have a great day all!

Janice
A forever FOB

Good Morning Barbara & Belles - I love you very much.

Good Morning FOB's - my heart is hurting so here I am sharing with all of you again. What would we do without each other.

I hope my emails to all the senators will help! I feel that there is more we could do!! I cannot believe there is any doubt how they will vote - are you kidding me - duh. If they do not vote to prohibit slaughter they are crazy, heartless or very uninformed. I guess they could be paid to vote for it too??

Hugs to all - have a great day!

Correction - it is early!!

Good Morning Barbaro & Belles - I love you very much.

Also, thank you Alex, you completely rock for giving us this place to be FOB's.

There are not enough words to let you know how much this means to all of us.

Thank you again....hugs!

Paul Moran has made some valid comments but they do not go far enough...

The real 50 million dollar question here is...
Why has Churchill not Polytracked???
The research is in and in Canada at Woodbine 15,000 horses have raced on their polytrack and there have been only 3 injuries!!!The results are similar at ALL tracks using Polytrack!!!

IF only 1 horse were saved is it not worth it???

Moran should have gone further in his article...
He skirted the REAL ANSWER !!!

I am leaving at 10an eastern time flying to Yellowknife NWT via British Columbia.Will keep in touch via internet.Back home May 22nd.

Ms Jerri Auntie Maribel can't wait any longer ...what are you waiting for ??? Have that precious little foal!! You are safe and in good hands at MHR...God bless and keep Jerri and her foal safe.Amen

HUGS and love to ALL

Good morning everyone,

Liz, thank you for posting that article from England. Much appreciated.

I don't know about any of you but I awoke this morning with a renewed energy, more of a determination, to get our business done.

Every call I make is dedicated to a gentle soul we have lost: Barbaro, Eight Belles, George Washington, the list goes on. For each one, I won't allow their passing to be forgotten, and will not stop until our goal is reached.

I know all of you will be this determined as well, and make the calls that need to be made.

Make it a productive day.

Today is a brand new day. Item One: Quash MO SCR 35.

Item Two: Tackle Congress.

Item Three: Promote safe racing, early and often. People who otherwise pay no attention, are doing so now, and we can educate them.

Safe trip, Maribel!!!!

Kaiser, good luck, sweetie.

Well said and Amen, John!!

###MEA CULPA (and yes, I'm shouting).

I posted a lengthy ramble last night and got a bunch of stuff really wrong. Nancy was not banned from ABR for profanity. She removed herself from ABR because she was banned from the forum.

I don't even know what I'm talking about, but anyway, I got a very kind note from her this a.m. and wanted to correct my mistake.

Profanity had nothing to do with anything.

Ack--and my apologies again.

Any news on Chelokee?

Morning Famblee. Morning Barbaro, Eight Belles and all the heavenly angels in Equine Heaven.

Look at this heartwarming story:

http://hoofcare.blogspot.com/2008/03/pony-romps-to-new-role-in-lifeon-three.html

Hay, FOBs'!

###
Small world. Jim Gath of Tierra Madre...used to work with my favorite uncle at USA Today. My uncle took Jim under his wing and they worked together for a long time.

Prayers for Winston. Prayers for us all.

Healing, Love, Peace
ONS
Padme

Good Morning everyone.

Thank you for the article Alex.

Prayers and a hug being sent to Winston today.

I am so upset this morning, Nancy In CT was banned on the forum for expressing herself? I don't remember any laws saying what we can and cannot say.I understand being vulgar. We have FREEDOM of speech in this country. I am speechless. We have lost a GREAT member A LADY and a WONDREFUL friend Nancy worked so hard and never gave up.She never hurt anyone here.

It is a shame that we do not have the right to express ourselves whether positive or negative.We learn by that. That is also why so many have left here.

One voice can make a very big difference and maybe we lost that one voice.If people keep leaving and get banned the slaughter will fail with good strong voices to fight.

Nancy,
Thank you dear friend, YOU did it YOUR WAY!
God Bless you dear heart your spirit is so wonderful don't ever stifel it.

Margie,
Here I go, I just want to go and be with her.

##
Debbie: RE: your question of being able to access previous updates at Equine Heaven....send that question to equineheaven@aol.com the 'Heavenly Farm Manager' will 'talk you through'.....I tried to put that into words, and got 'lost':/ Sorry, need more morning coffee:)

Morning, ABR Famblee...

Still 'hurts', I know....me too!

Interesting piece on KCRA TV from Sacramento, CA last evening.

Because of Eight Belles, even local TV stations are doing a little more than just 'talking'! They actually sent one of their reporters to the University of CA - Davis to interview an Equine Veterinarian. Seems UCD is doing a 'study'..there are FIFTEEN Vets involved in it!

The LadeeeVet had a handful of synthetic track in her hands...she showed Chris Riva, the Reporter, how it 'springs back' when crushed. She explained that the material doesn't pack into the horses' feet...it provides them with 'cushion' when they run on it, unlike hard dirt which can pack like CEMENT...

She also pointed out, that in their professional opinion, horsees who suffer catastrophic injuries do not take 'mis-steps'....there is more than likely an underlying injury no one is aware of, such as a 'stress fracture' which wouldn't even show up on an X-Ray pre-racing.

It was all very interesting. UCD is a highly recognized school for Veterinary Medicine so I will hope the findings they bring from this study will greatly benefit MANY horses, and educate their peeples, too:)

If you are interested in viewing, I think a video is available from their website at www.thekcrachannel.com

Meanwhile, I am hoping this 'gift of extra time' from those Senators in MO (they adjourned y'day without voting on the Resolution) will give yole a little extra time to send those faxes or make the calls or shoot off a quick e-mail and let them know how WE feel about their Senate Concurrence Resolution #35!

Everyone, have a good day today....

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

The Jerri cam just went down. Darn.

Lynne. Thanks for the information. I will try it and see how it goes. I don't get to read it everyday and of all days, I missed Barbaro's birthday.
Yesterday's was beautiful, but heart wrenching.
Have a good day.

I watched the Fox News report last night. Bill O'Reilley said he did not have alot of information. Wow...we sure can email him some. He was there to see it and loves horses.

I was yelling at that girl...she needs to get some facts straight.Very one sided unfortunatley.

Forgive me if I missed this, but is there any news on Chelokee yet?
Wasn't there supposed to be a press conference today?

William Karen posted this a short time ago.

Always need some good news !!!

On ESPN.COM is the following article; here's the link. News FOR CHELOKEE looks cautiously really good! Survival likelihood up to 60% and blood flow to the ankle is happening !

Chelokee's survival chances up to 60 percent after successful surgery

http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/horse/news/story?id=3383010

Moving forward . . . with the spirit of Barbaro, Eight Belles and all . . .

Posted by: Karen, PA at May 6, 2008 3:08 PM

### Go to the Blog of Alex Waldrop on NTRA.com. Very good- totally with us. This is not going to go away. A Must read. Jen

Good morning all! More calling and faxing for me today. As Susan E. says, let's "Quash MO SCR 35"! Barbaro.....I know you welcomed Eight Belles with 'open hooves'. Watch over her and all of our other Equine Heaven angels! Oh, and Susan E....you are never a bother to me at work! Keep all the news and info coming (and those emails about pets needing to find good homes :) Nancy in MO.

Thanks Renee. I should probably read the posts before I ask questions. Slap a dunce cap on me, and face me in the corner. A touch of good news indeed.

Jen - thanks for the Sen. Rupp update.

Interesting reading here this morning, really good comments.

((((( KAISER )))))
and
((((( JANICE )))))

Barbaro Jackson, good morning in hevvin, and say hello to beautiful Eight Belles who left us , like you, too soon.

Hello all FOB's and animal lovers; While we work through our sadness and questions about the horror of Eight Belles and too many others, please let's not forget those who FOB's have saved. The FOB $1-$5 alive really needs our help for those saved from slaughter.Thanks, Barbara g

jen,
Greast reading, at least they are aware. Maybe we need to address out letter to Alex Waldrop, he sounds level headed and is looking at it all from every side.

TUESDAY AT JOE AND CATHY'S AND A GAZILLION HORSES NO ONE WANTED
***************************************************
Tuesday, May 6th...
Over the years many morning journals have produced a strong reaction. But none like the morning journal from this past Sunday. I wrote about Eight Belles, a filly killed in The Kentucky Derby. And I told you about a 15 year old girl who lives at a youth shelter in Sacramento, and how on our ranch she fell in love with Yummy, a broken down gelding.

I am several days behind in answering your letters. To the almost 300 of you who have written to express your feelings, I will soon reply. Sorry for being so far behind.

I have permission to share the following letters. Passion for horses reaches into all corners of our world.

This is from Bonnie, and she lives in Italy: Perhaps when Michael Vick is released from prison, he could find a job at the race track. I think he would fit in fine.

From Sarah in Ontario, Canada: I was unable to sleep Saturday night. My heart is broken.

From Alanna in Washington: There was no reason to keep whipping Eight Belles. She was not going to catch the winner. I will never again watch another horse race.

From Ronnie in Washington: I bet $2.00 to Win Place and Show on Eight Belles. I refused to collect my winnings. In her memory I am keeping this ticket on my desk. I am done watching horse races.

Name withheld from Petaluma, California: My daughter is 12 and all she talks about is horses. Not long ago I thought it would be fun to have a mother daughter day out. We went to Bay Meadows Race Track so my daughter could see close up the beautiful thoroughbreds. During a race, as the horses approached the finish line, a horse broke his leg and right in front of us his leg was dangling. It was horrific to see. I will never forget the terror in his eyes. They brought a horse ambulance, and my daughter was crying. A nasty lady, who I discovered later was a horse trainer, told my daughter to quit crying. She told my daughter to grow up. All the way home my hands were shaking on the steering wheel. I was so mad. I called Bay Meadows and was finally put through to someone in charge, and they put me on hold and then the line went dead. My daughter had a nightmare the other night about a horse who broke his leg. You will never ever see either of us at a race track again.

Name withheld from Southern California: Joe it takes a death on national television to piss off America. But every morning during workouts horses die. Every afternoon when they race they die. I get to see how they suffer. I am an exercise rider, and I am saving money for my own rescue ranch. I cannot tell you how many times I have gone home from work and thrown up.

From Colleen in Minnesota: For the 15 year old girl I am writing her a special letter. I want her to know how important she is. Could you make sure she gets my letter.

From Audrey in Colorado: Early Sunday morning a black filly was born in our barn, and I asked the owner to name her Eight Belles. The owner agreed. I spent Sunday afternoon cuddling with the new filly and I prayed, asking God to please give her a good life.

From Lisa in Arizona: How wonderful the 15 year old girl connected with Yummy. A day of national tragedy, and all the girl can think about is Yummy. After Eigth Belles died I drove to the barn so I could hug my Chet. I stayed with Chet for hours, and I fell asleep in his stall. God Bless Eight Belles. God Bless America. May we learn from our troubles.

Joe

108 horses on our ranch, and more than 50 are not available for adoption. They are lifetime residents.

Top Left: This is Air Bag, and he made lots of money at the race track. Air Bag is our babysitter. When wild youngsters come to us we put them in with Air Bag.

Top Right: She is a little nuts, and her name is Victoria Secret. Victoria is now 8.

Bottom Left: Right before Christmas he came to us from the race track, broken down badly. We call him Yummy, and now he is feeling fine and dandy.

Bottom Right: This is Weather Man, a son of Storm Cat, and he came to us from the race track in 2002. Weather Man is a stakes winner. He also likes to be left alone.

"She also pointed out, that in their professional opinion, horsees who suffer catastrophic injuries do not take 'mis-steps'....there is more than likely an underlying injury no one is aware of, such as a 'stress fracture' which wouldn't even show up on an X-Ray pre-racing."

I agree 100% with that. I remember the recently-passed Frank Whitely Jr. always believed that Ruffian suffered her initial ankle break by banging into the side of the gate, then ran on the break until it could not take the pressure and the bone crushed. Sure bones can crack devastatingly at random (usually in a traumatic accident like a car crash), but it makes more sense to me that a small, undetected crack becomes bigger and bigger and bigger the more you push and push and push... I believe that Belles was running on a hairline fracture during the stretch run, and when that leg gave out the other snapped from the pressure of holding up her body. No proof, of course, but I don't buy the theory that a misstep crushed both legs at once randomly. Too random.

Alex and Jackie,
Thank you both for stepping in and clarifying that for me. Much appreciated.

Alex you need a nap. ;)

FOBs I just deleted the cut/paste of JOES JOURNAL. I am sure that posting this amazing edition would get me banned again. SO you will have to seek it out for yourselves. Joe has seen it all. Many of his readers have seen it all.

tbfriends.com
I encourage you to read. Even that many get be banned. So very sad. I imagine that Barbaro is standing with his head down at the past two days of anger and sorrow and rage on this Board.

We all do the best we can with our human frailties. We--in fact--have formed ourselves into a volunteer force who--if the same numbers had to be hired at the appropriate levels of expertise in management, marketing, finances, teaching, the ABR could not afford us.

We went through something similar to this difficulty at our local zoo about a decade ago. Volunteers and some keepers against other keepers and the director of the zoo. In the end, the zoo relented, knowing that there was NO WAY the Zoo could accomoplish what they do day in and day out for the public without devoted and compassionate volunteers. It was very interesting.

I love my FOBS. All of them. I need them all. Please let us do our "jobs." Time will heal this rift. But the scars will always be there.
Love you all.
Thank you Wendy.
Thank you Alex.

Jackie,
I loved Frank Whitely Jr. what a great man and trainer and funny. He was very smart, they were lucky to have found each other.I remember that gate incident about Ruffian.

Yes there are mis-steps I sure did it this past winter when I broke my ankle. I remember Dr. Richardson finally saying that Barbaro took a mis- step and that was the end of it. Leave it alone.

Well, there you have it. I guess Equine Heaven wanted it read...fingers too tired. Copied and pasted nonetheless. OK. Slap the cuffs on.

jonna,
We can have side by side cells. Sassy and Spunky. LOL

####
Matching orange jumpsuits too? Although those toilets, ewwwwwwwwww. Love you girlie.

I am waiting to hear the complete results of the necroposy.

The Resolution passed in the Missouri state senate. This just makes our work on the federal level even more urgent. If states are going to try to turn against us, we must step up our game.

Strategy is being discussed and will be posted!

Thanks to you all for your hard work on this one!!!

Hahaha, wow. Spammer alert.
How did they get a post in before I did?

####
ShelleyA
More sad news Missouri state senate.

Pvfuxvr, go play some other place, we are trying to work here!

So sorry that resolution passed. OY.

Does anyone know of a better method, or have any input on the PZP vaccination? From what I can tell, that's about all that's available. I'd appreciate any input. Thanks

Shelly,
Tough crowd, you don't think there is a chance? Darn

I am so sorry to read the Senators in MO passed the Resolution today.

Shelley is right, Famblee, we must clean our boots, dust ourselves off...and begin again!

We are being 'herd', we just need to dig in a little deeper, stand back a little farther and runnnnnnnnn a little faster...so we can FINALLY KNOCK DOWN THAT WALL!!!

We sure were never told this would be 'easy'....I know, sometimes I think, too, that I didn't think it would be this hard...but we just GOTTA stay the COURSE....and keep on keepin' on...so SOMEDAY, OUR AMERICAN HORSES WILL BE *SAFE* like they deserve to be, dammit!!! :)

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Good news today about Chelokee. Thank God for that.

bad news from Missouri, dammit. we'll just have to hammer at the Feds harder.

Good article from Paul Moran, thank you for posting the link, Alex. Kinda came around from his posting of last Wednesday, but he raises some excellent points, and I have to think all the recognition of this horrendous event is going to be extremely helpful in getting necessary changes made. It's going to be very hard for anyone to argue the costs of replacement. The costs of injuries and deaths is just way too much to bear.

###

Renee....my sisterinbArbaro...Shelley wrote NOT 'UNACHIEVABLE'....we COULD get EIGHTEEN MORE:)
You know what I say??? 'YES WE CAN':)

WE ARE *FOBS* WE SURE *CANNNNNNNN* :)

Let's GO AND GET THEM....:) Oooooops....got a little ahead of myself there, Famblee....we need to wait for our MARCHING ORDERS....they WILL BE COMING TO A COMPUTER SCREEN NEAR US:) I just KNOW it!!!

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Renee, Jonna, please check your emails.

Looking for a silver lining re Missouri: it's a resolution, not a law. We need to keep pushing to get the word out to the public. As horrible as it it, Belle's death has heightened public awareness and this is a good time to educate the public.

"God's Treasures In Rainbows"

From God's Loving Heart
The Most Beautiful Rainbow Angel Barbaro
Eight Belles Glowing Halo
Our Angel Horses
In Our Minds, Hearts And Souls
Their Wings Of Love
Our Wings Of Prayer
Talking To God
Seeing
Barbaro's Famblee Of So, So So Beautiful Angels
Your Angel Hearts Of Love
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
Angels Among Us
All Around
Visible
The Rainbow Of God's Treasures
His Angels........

8........Halos.......Two Hearts.......Connected
In Love.........Divine Faith And Love........

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

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

Affirmed Connection........
Angel Barbaro Is With You.......
Angel Secretariat Is With You.......
Visible.......
Glowing.......

Affirmed

I have not told anyone about this until now, but as I sat in my chair on Saturday watching the pre-Derby coverage I had a very uneasy feeling about the race that I could not shake and it centered around Eight Belles. I was worried she would push too hard as the only filly. I chastised myself mentally - just thought it was my nerves again.

Well, we know how sadly it played out and yes I am now worrying about Big Brown's feet. I do wish the Triple Crown races were spaced farther apart. The horses that race today are not like the ones who raced it years ago. I think these things need to be taken into account for them.

I heard BB's owner say himself he doesn't like the Pimlico surface. If we have another fatal breakdown it will be very BAD.

I don't mean to sound like a bummer but I am a realist. I know his owners are expected to run him in all 3 but I would rather that BB lose the Preakness and be healthy and so then be scratched with any thought of running the grueling Belmont than to break down on national TV on the track. There is no joy in that heartbreak and it would be aweful for horse racing.

Let's pray/meditate for his feet. They are a serious concern.

There. I have said my peace that I have held in since last Saturday. Maybe if Pimlico were a synthetic track I would feel differently.

Lynne,
Boots are on new soles too.

Cheryl,
It is to bad that it cannot be made mandatory that each track changes to polytrack for safety reasons, if not be fined or closed until the changes are made.

Susan E.,
Hopefully the horrific event will take on a positive turn. She will have a nice legacy, but we won't have her. We won't forget her though.

I heard she flirtted with Barbaro already.

chris,

You and few of us felt the same thing you did. She did look like she was struggling tword the end. God Bless her. I am getting teary eyed. I can see her beautiful face.

I find it strange that BB's owner made that statement, I remember Edgar hoping that they would find something wrong with Barbaro so he would be scratched. Greyhounds and horses have very skinny legs, how much does it take to twist those skinny legs and they are supporting that large body.

Susan E. - Check your e-mail. tell me what we can do as in state voters. Jen

Thread Name: Eight Belles

The first entry in the thread.......

I couldn't agree more! Very Funny.

http://forums.delphiforums.com/alexbrown/messages/?msg=23324.1

Jen,

Let me collect my thoughts about this.

Chris Byers,

Me too, me too.

Horse Feed Recall Affects East Coast
by: Erin Ryder, TheHorse.com News Editor
May 05 2008, Article # 11810
Print Email Republish Link RSS
Horse feed dealers are the key to identifying if there's a potential problem with recently purchased Purina feed, according to Land O'Lakes spokesperson Lydia Botham.

Land O'Lakes Purina Feed LLC recently announced a recall of certain horse feed products manufactured at three East Coast facilities. The products might contain an ingredient with an unacceptably high level of aflatoxin.

Aflatoxins are a form of mycotoxin, and are secondary metabolites produced by Aspergillus spp. fungi. According to Gary Osweiler, DVM, PhD, professor of veterinary toxicology at Iowa State University, effects of aflatoxins can be progressive as well as cumulative. At levels greater than 50 ppb (parts per billion), aflatoxins can cause signs such as feed refusal, fever, weight loss, sluggishness, liver damage, jaundice, bloody diarrhea, kidney damage, birth defects, tumors, and suppressed immune function.

Read more about mycotoxins in "Damage From Within."

Botham said there have not been any confirmed health complaints due to aflatoxins related to the current recall of feed.

Feed Recall

The recalled feed was produced at:

Purina's Statesville, N.C., plant between Nov. 3, 2007, and Feb. 8, 2008;
Harrisburg, Pa., Jan. 1, 2008, and Feb. 8, 2008; and
Guilderland, N.Y., Jan. 1, 2008, and March 10, 2008.

Dealers in the following states might have sold affected product:

Connecticut,
Delaware,
Georgia,
Maine,
Maryland,
Massachusetts,
New Hampshire,
New Jersey,
New York,
North Carolina,
Pennsylvania,
Rhode Island,
South Carolina,
Tennessee,
Vermont,
Virginia, and
West Virginia.

The recall is voluntary and precautionary, Botham stressed.
Dealers were notified of the recall in March. Botham said the aflatoxin was discovered through routine product testing performed by a state regulatory agency, with results confirmed by company testing.

The potentially affected feed products were manufactured at three facilities and sold in 17 states (see sidebar). Horse owners in these states should call their feed dealer to see if they received affected product.

"Different dealers got different products, so the best thing (horse owners) can do is go to their dealer," Botham said. "The dealer is really the hub--they're the ones who will know if anyone in their area may have received this product."

The feed in question was manufactured between November 2007 and March 2008, depending on the manufacturing plant from which it originated.

Hank Yohe, warehouse manager and equine specialist at Global Ag Associates in York, Pa., a Purina feed dealer, said he heard about the recall about three weeks ago.

"As soon as I found out about it, all the customers that I could identify I contacted immediately," Yohe said. "But I knew I didn't have any feed of that vintage in my warehouse. We turn our feed around about every two weeks. So the feed that was in question I knew had already gone out, was already sold, and probably was already fed."

Yohe said he has not received any questions from customers, nor complaints about the products.

According to a statement released by Purina, the concern stems from a single ingredient, which originated with a specific supplier.

"The product had the presence of aflatoxin above the level of what we would consider acceptable," Botham said.

Purina is no longer using this supplier. However, it was noted in the statement that other feed companies that utilize this supplier might also be affected.

"I'm not aware of any aflatoxin contamination issues affecting Triple Crown Nutrition's equine formulas," said Rob Daugherty, CEO of Triple Crown Nutrition, Inc. "Triple Crown Nutrition offers fixed feed formulas utilizing ingredients that are typically not affected by aflatoxins like those sometimes found in corn screenings and/or peanut hulls."

Some other feeds companies are working to find out the identity of the supplier to ensure their products do not contain the affected ingredient.

Watch TheHorse.com for updates.

Nice Article about Eight Belles. It seems there are alot of questions as to why.

Kentucky Derby Filly Eight Belles 'Went Out in Glory'
by: Tom LaMarra
May 04 2008, Article # 11803

A tearful Larry Jones said Eight Belles, who suffered a catastrophic injury in the gallop-out after finishing second in the Run for the Roses, said there would be no second-guessing in what he called an "unfortunate" outcome that couldn't be foreseen.

Eight Belles, owned by Rick Porter, ran a spectacular race in the May 3 Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs to finish 4 ¾ lengths behind the monstrous Big Brown and well ahead of the 18 other colts in the 20-horse field. But the Unbridled’s Song filly broke both front ankles near the 6 ½-furlong pole about a quarter-mile after the finish.

"She went out a champion to us. She was our family." --Trainer Larry Jones"She had her ears up as she crossed the wire," Jones said during a meeting with the press about two hours after the race. "We were high-fiving. I told everyone if we run fourth, fifth, or sixth, we've had a great weekend as long as she comes back to the barn good."
Jones trains Proud Spell, who the day before won the Kentucky Oaks for owner Brereton Jones. And Eight Belles certainly ran a winning race in the Derby.

“It was a quarter-mile after the race,” Jones said in disbelief. “(Breakdowns) just don’t happen there. There’s always a reason things happen, but right now I see no reason for this. She ran the race of her life; she put it out there.”

Larry Bramlage, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, agreed. "She appeared to be galloping out fine," he said. "I haven't seen this before."

Jones said the injuries were so severe there was no way Eight Belles could be saved. He also said he saw no problem with the racing surface at Churchill, and had no reservations running the filly against colts given the way she had trained for the race.

Share your thoughts

The Blood-Horse, sister publication to The Horse, has set up an open blog so that readers can share their thoughts on and memories of Eight Belles.

It can be accessed through Eight Belles Memory Wall.

All comments are moderated and must be approved before they are posted. The blog author reserves the right to edit or omit any comment.

Jones said Porter is "taking it pretty rough. Somebody will come up with the idea the filly shouldn't have been in there. He's going to second-guess himself. But I told him it wasn't that--she finished a mile-and-a-quarter pretty well."
Jones acknowledged injuries occur in all sports, and said he hopes some good comes out of the situation similar to the aftermath of Barbaro’s breakdown in the 2006 Preakness Stakes.

"She went out in a glory," Jones said. "She went out a champion to us. She was our family. I saw my son yesterday and my daughter today, but I saw Eight Belles every day. She had been with us for a year.

"Losing animals like this isn't fun. We're heartbroken. We're going to miss her."

Eight Belles had five wins, three seconds, and a third in 10 career starts for earnings of $708,650.

(Originally published at BloodHorse.com.)

If anyone is interested there are alot of good articles on THEHORSE.COM

Stop looking for someone to blame.

Accept that this sorrowful thing has happened.

Resolve to work harder to make life in America better for all horses.

Don't let Rockpile, Impeach Wille or Eight Belles have died in vain.

Resolve to be part of the change.

THESE PEOPLE ARE NUTS.....

Protestors appear at Kentucky Horse Park
By MATT HEGARTY
LEXINGTON, Ky. - Approximately a dozen protestors affiliated with the animal-rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals appeared at the Kentucky Horse Park outside Lexington on Tuesday afternoon to register their displeasure with Thoroughbred racing in the wake of Saturday's death of Eight Belles after her second-place finish in the Kentucky Derby.

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey!
And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd as you know you do take me to where angels walk. . . . .

Holding hands, paws, hooves with all the Barbaro Nation, all the famblee . . . .

A very difficult week indeed . . . . been coming here to be with you all every chance I can capture . . . . for this is where my heart connects . . . . but the words just weren't coming . . . . you all are in my heart, always in my prayers.

God Bless you Eight Belles, Lost In The Fog, Affirmed, Mending Fences, Burnt Sierra, so many more . . . .

with love,
Lou Ann

#######
I am sorry if I missed any news from FOB SANDRA & CHIEF - has there been any word of dear CHIEF??

I was babysitting a very sweet senior dachsund for a neighbor for several days - he is used to being held and cuddled and he was so missing his "peeples" so, of course, yours truly rocked and cuddled and he now knows all about the FOBs, too!

Peace to all of us, L

It is very surprising to me that the very state in which the horrible accident happened with the horses on their way to slaughter is the state that tries to stop the antislaughter bill from passing in Congress. I guess the Missouri politicians didn't listen to the outraged Missouri voters when the accident happened. Just like the Texas politicians don't listen to the majority of Texans who want horse slaughter banned. What worries me is that the Texas legislature meets again in January 2009. Who knows what they will try to do again.

Yes, Mike C they are nuts. From what I hear, there are people up there from both sides, so that's good.

#####Decision just announced

Wisconsin sculptor chosen to create Barbaro statue
The Associated Press

MIDDLETON, Wis. --A Wisconsin sculptor has been chosen to create a statue of Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro.

The statue will be part of the beloved racehorse's official grave in front of Gate 1 at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.

More than 100 artists applied to create the Barbaro statue. The horse was euthanized in January 2007 after he struggling with a broken leg suffered in the Preakness Stakes.

Middleton sculptor Alexa King says she will use 500 to 700 pounds of wax clay to create a 1,500-pound statue of Barbaro striding toward the Derby finish line. The statue will be cast in Colorado after she carves it.

King says she hopes to have the statue in place at Churchill Downs before next year's Kentucky Derby.

--------------------------------------------------
This will be the most beautiful statue, just cannot wait. I want to be there to see this unveiled.
Our beloved Barbaro!

Karen Macmanus Dallas, Texas

EXTRA TUESDAY 5/06 NATIONAL TARGET LIST (HAHS)

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

http://forums.delphiforums.com/alexbrown/messages?msg=23311.1

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 (Tuesday 5/06/08) 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."

Tuesday 5/06 Extra HAHS List 

Prior HS History -  These are all new Reps. elected in Nov. 2006 or recently in special elections - vote on HR 249 by those in office at the time, shown below.

IMO - THANK those who voted YES on HR 249, and remind that HR 249 only applies to WILD equines and we still need HR 503 for the rest of them and to end export.

ILLINOIS
Representative Bill Foster (replaces former Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert; special election March 8, 2008; sworn into office March 11, 2008; in office pending general election in November 2008)
Fax: 202-225-0697 Phone: 202-225-2976
2304 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515-1314

INDIANA
Representative Joe Donnelly (Y on HR 249)
Fax: 202-225-6798 Phone: 202-225-3915
1218 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515-1402

Representative Andre Carson (On March 11, 2008, he won a special election to fill the seat of his grandmother, the late Rep. Julia Carson. SHE WAS A COSPONSOR of present HR 503. He is in today's primary to determine Dem. candidate for Nov election.)
Fax: 202-225-5633 Phone: 202-225-4011
2455 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515-1407

Representative Brad Ellsworth (N on HR 249)
Fax: 202-225-3284 Phone: 202-225-4636
513 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515-1408

IOWA
Representative Bruce Braley (Y on HR 249)
Fax: 202-225-6666 Phone: 202-225-2911
1408 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515-1501

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 this Thread 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.

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)

Yeah I was a bad girl. I got punished...now I am a good girl. LOL

Horses are the most incredible animal I have ever been around. I believe we have to get to understand what they are all about, and what makes them the way they are.They are gentle giants with huge hearts and the most incredible eyes. I have said this before and don't want to bore my frens. I have read three of Monty Roberts books. He teaches about the horse and why they do what they do.I am going to meet him this November and am so looking forward to it. He does clain that he did not develope his tenique just exposed it.

ooops - re the extra HAHS list Posted by C. Jaffe at May 6, 2008 8:26 PM

That alternate AWI/SAPL target list of Senators is at post 2 of the DB Thread where today's extra HAHS list is posted

http://forums.delphiforums.com/alexbrown/messages?msg=23311.1

I saw this on thoroughbred times.com. Can anyone give a legitimate reason for him to have this?

Posted: Monday, May 05, 2008 8:14 PM

Jockey Murphy suspended for possession of shock device

Jockey Glen Murphy has been suspended and fined after an electrical device was found in his car during a compliance inspection on Thursday by the Texas Racing Commission at Lone Star Park.

After the 40-year-old El Paso, Texas, native waived his right to a hearing. The racetrack’s board of stewards issued its ruling Saturday.

Murphy, who has earned leading riding titles at Sunland Park, Ruidoso Downs, and Sam Houston Race Park, will serve a 180-day suspension through October 27 and pay a $2,500 fine, according to the Star-Telegram.

Murphy was arrested by Grand Prairie, Texas, police and charged with a misdemeanor for possession of the device, which is illegal at racetracks.

I am so suprised to see this coming through...Larry Jones NEVER would hurt one of his horses..And ya know..you have to put every horse in a holding barn...BEFORE and AFTER the race. HE DID NOTHING Wrong.. I stand by this. As a former trainer..a fan of racing for years...I stand by my opinion.
SusanW.

May 6 Cherokee Devotional [sharing email from Harriette Brillianthawk]

When we let down our guard, habit is waiting to reclaim its territory. It seems innocent and it is so familiar that we seldom suspect what teeth it has! Once we decide to change something, we can't expect to do it in one great sweep. What has taken us over by such tiny degrees must be edged out the same way. The fact that we are taking small steps does not minimize a very great commitment. Little by little, we reform our habits, making sure we leave no void for any other bad habit to fill. If we have a ne lo ta nv, made an effort or tried to change and failed, it is probably because we tried to do it alone or denied the need to change. The Cherokee believes he needs u na li go sv, a help or partnership, to give him support. It may be another v da li lv quo ta nv, a special or blessed person that is grounded in the Great Spirit.


I am tired of talk that comes to nothing.

Chief Joseph

chris,
There is no reason, they use those shockers in rodeo's it is sickening and these man less cowboys should have it done to them neeked so they really feel it. It makes me nuts!

Susan,
Larry Jones looks like a great guy with a heart to go with it.

I do like this comment Larry Jones made:

"he hopes some good comes out of the situation similar to the aftermath of Barbaro’s breakdown in the 2006 Preakness Stakes."

I hope he is referring the what the Fans of Barbaro have accomplished!!

Can we please just post links to the articles esp Eight Belles? some of us are still upset and seeing some of the wording in some of the entire article postings are a bit too much. Plus I did not think unless you had permission from the website you could copy like that

He just deleted it due to it not pertaining to horseracing. This is a horseracing site.

I pray for BB that his trip is a good smooth one.

Sorry Alex.

Who are the whacks at the Horse Park protesting WHAT?
The Derby has been run at the great Churchill Downs for 134 years.
This is the first breakdown I have ever seen at the Derby...
I have watched Wandy go down...
Stop trying to destroy racing by YOUR FEAR..
It is not helping.
SusanW.

Susan The KY Horse Track is too good for that trash.It was stated that breakdowns do not happen at CH Downs. The activists need to calm down and think if that is possible. OMG the horses will blow themselves up stop it now, oh my goodness they will fly and drop poop bombs. Help us. lol

KY Horse Park whooops

### Let me tell you all what the problem here in Missouri is. I hear it a lot from other horse owners because they know I am anti-slaughter. They ALL blame the prices of their horses falling because of the slaughter plants closing. AS I tell them, very politely, that they dont know what they are talking about. But that is the mood with many owners. They dont believe its because of the hay prices, they all want to blame anti-slaughter advocates. But we all know they are wrong and we are here to re-educate them. By the way- I am a horse racing psycho. Cant live without it, but I grieve just as hard as anyone when something bad happens. Jen

####
Jen...sounds like they are ignoring the real problem....everything has gone up....are they in the real world or what? hay prices, grains, gas, I mean they should go buy milk and eggs..

Nice article
MMatz loved Barbaro- he will always be in thoughts.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-03-kentucky-derbymay03,0,2101835.story

jen,
I'll bet you stay nice and calm to.
The horse boys need to realize that this country is in a recession and people are not going to spend money freely until it straightens its self out. The price of hay, gas, food. Hellloooooooooo boys.

jen, of course you grieve you have a heart.

From that article:

"Barbaro was a superior horse, a special horse. He touched so many people's lives, people all over the world. We got a letter from a 10-year-old boy from Africa who had AIDS. We sent a letter and a picture. They told us it meant so much to the boy that he slept with it under his pillow. I can tell you tons of stories like that."

### Actually Renee- I feel like exploding and going Postal, but I know that wont help. So I stay calm- must be old age setting in. The Derby was on my b-day this year, and it was a very sad one. One I will never forget. Jen

Heartbroken, at the result of the MO legislature campaign. We DID try. And yet, I know that we will not let this setback dilute our resolve. I'm just a bit tired and down hearted today.

I have decided NOT to watch the rest of the Triple Crown races. I could not bear the heartache of watching anymore tragedy. I will pray for thm, and marvel at the replays, but, this time, I know I cannot watch.

Oh Lord, please protect BIG BROWN and all of the others.

###Also, here's a reposting from last night:

I will MISS NancyCT !!!

She has been a good fren, and a tireless worker. It is my hope that the Barbaronation climate will cool, and that our famblee will someday be restored.

I went into the TWR archives, and spent some time back in August 4, 2006. What good times those were! We laughed so hard that night! Oh, how we have changed...(sigh)...and yet, in some ways, we are stronger, and even more determined than ever.

So, forward we go, Frens...forward together for the sake and legacy of our Beloved. As we continue our work, let us seek to remain connected, heart-to-heart, in spite of our many differences...always loving, and never forgetting anyone with whom we have shared so much.

We are a famblee, we will work it out. Yes?

The LOVE of the Frens will make the difference.

Your FOB Fren, O

####
WELL...HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY JEN...

Goodnight our Sweetheart, Barbaro

Barbaro, do you know how you have open so many doors, you have laid the groundwork for your family to do, and finish so many unfinish tasks...Did you know God chose you...to be so special...and to help your family be strong and united....How could we not love you, Barbaro?

Goodnight Family/Fans of Barbaro

Call, fax, email...we have alot on our plate FOBS...WE CAN DO THIS! What we do is gradually do a step at a time...we are making progress...yes we are.

We can conquer Missouri, too!

We can move Sen. Craig out of his stalls...I think if God sees it in his plans...we can even move mountains....yes indeed...

Please remember and help our rescues, our Fallen Angels, the ones suffering human or animal, our wildlife, and always our loving family...we are strong, we are united, we are love.

Have a nice evening.

####
Thank you and goodnight Alex.
Thank you Tim and Fair Hill.
Our precious Fallen Angels..we are here.

####
Jerri...you are in our prayers...and your little baby.

oh jen,
I feel so bad for you, I burried my dad on my 30th bd. that is tough. Try to move on at your pace.I know the postal feeling when you want to scream at these people. We can all go postal together. We have a tough road and we have been traveling it for two years now. We need a nice break.

Our Goal, Safer Tracks for the horses and Jockeys and to end Horse Slaughter. We can do this.

Hang in there fren.

now what////////////////////////////////////////

Just checking in during a busy afternoon. This news from Missouri certainly should inspire all of us to make just one more call, send just one more email, write one more letter, etc. Don't just stop when you're done with your list.

We'll await our most currect instructions and go from there.

I must say that I was driving through my state Saturday and took pleasure at seeing foals run alongside their mothers in pastures near the interstate. Each time I saw this, I said a prayer that we will be successful in our cause and help to make all horses safe, so that these beautiful little souls I saw frolicking in pastures, under the watchful eyes of their moms, will always be safe.

jonna,
What?

Wow!! There are so many articles to read, so many different points of views and different 'fixes' out here and in other venues today, my head is spinning!!

I read Paul Moran's, 'The Sport is Here to Stay' and Alex Waldrop's, 'Safety First' and then someone sent me via e-mail yet another from US News and World Report.

They, the articles, pretty much run the gamut from 'ban racing, it's animal abuse' to the more 'realistic' feelings/reality, that it is here to stay...it's not going away, so let's make it safest as possible for the horses who's paths in life have been chosen for them before they are even born!

Before I met our Big Bay Boy....I used to watch racing occassionaly, I enjoyed it...because the *STARS*, the horses are all soooooooo beautiful!

I didn't know that so many became injured, I sure didn't know so many die on tracks...high profile or little known tracks and horses, both!

I am glad that so many people have become aware, I am glad to learn of the fifteen Veterinarians at UC Davis are conducting their study. I am hopeful that awareness will remain heightened and perhaps some REAL changes can come about to help these amazing animals do what I've always prayed they would do...run like the wind, love every moment and come home safe!

I have read from two different sources, both in the racing business in one way or another for, 20-30 years....both say unless measures are taken to make racing safer for the horses, the fans will 'be no more'. Without fans, there would be no racing.

I've read that maybe we don't breed the horses today like we used to...that too much focus is placed on speed and not soundness. I have read that surfaces need to be changed...well, yeah, I'd say so, common sense just says that!

Are track owners/TB owners/trainers concerned that those synthetic surfaces maybe aren't as 'fast' as the packed dirt? Well, maybe the races wouldn't be as 'fast' but then the horse/s winning could be judged more on their abilities and not just 'speed'...does that make sense?

I've certainly read that putting these horses to racing at young ages is NOT a 'good thing', their bones aren't yet strong enough, not formed completely?

I know the synthetic surfaces need to be replaced every so many years...it's expensive, maybe that is a factor in not everyone running right out to re-surface with poly materials.

I guess there surely cannot be a 'clear, cut and dry' answer to all the factors, but I am at least hopeful that people will seriously look into them. I hope enough people will continue to examine all the issues and not just hope this 'goes away'....it isn't going away, because the horses running, get hurt or die so frequently.

Emotions are still 'raw' here, it is ever so obvious in reading what we are all writing today. I think it's important to remember 'we' are not the only folks who frequent this web site...and I am hopeful the others might understand the 'emotions' thing.

For myself, Famblee, I'm going to step back for a little while...try to 'digest' everything I've been reading. You gotta remember, I am a little 'olde', therefore it takes me a little longer....:) I kinda feel like I've been to a Rock Concert, my head is 'ringing'....

I'll be watching for my "Marching Orders" later on, and get them sent out to my AMAZING, TENACIOUS, 'NEVER GIVE UP THE FIGHT' TEAM MEMBERS FROM LA AND WA!!! Always on the 'ready' NEVER complaining...well, at least not to me:)

Everyone, have a good night!

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

They all need to see a graphic video of slaughter.

thanks for opening the comments, Alex, not to mention your patience

Thank you, Alex.

Update on Erin

Good evening, FsOB! My thanks to Alex for posting the update about Chelokee. I couldn't find any updates online last night. ####

Thanks as well for the link to the NTRA blog, Alex. I'll send in a comment this weekend, if the blog site is still accepting feedback then. I found the piece from "The Guardian" very thought-provoking which Liz shared with us from the United Kingdom. May everyone get some rest tonight and rise to seize the new day. Peace, RMH

#### To Janice & Denny: I hope all has gone well for Kaiser today.
To Jen: A belated birthday greeting to you. I am sorry that your day was marred in such a sad manner on the 3rd. ####

####
Jen, a belated Happy Birthday! I have gone most of the day. Best of wishes to you!

Winston is gone, but at Peace.

I ECHO CHERYL'S COMMENTS ALEX, IT'S BEEN A ROUGH FEW DAYS!

SO GLAD TO SEE THAT CHELOKEE'S PERCENTAGES CONTINUE TO IMPROVE! :>)

LOVE,
CHERYL G
:>)

##
Just stopping in to say a big THANKS Alex! You are amazing! Hang in there......PLEASE!
jan

All, All All Angelic Beautiful Glowing Rainbows To Angel Alex. For All Of Your Care And All That You Do. It Means So A Lot So.

All, All All My Love.

Affirmed

Hi Alex,
Enjoyed your article/commentary about the Derby in the New York Times. Keep up the good work!

To our host!!

Thank you, Alex.

Famblee, it's been a train wreck of a week. I am wishing everyone sweet, healing dreams--the kind you'll find in a Laurie H. tuck-in.

Have ACN, famblee.

FOB $1-$5 Alive Drive

We have raised over $700 so far for rescued horses in a little over 2 weeks. That is wonderful! Please remember that small donations of $1-$5 dollars is all we are asking for, but all donations are welcome.

Our next rescue horse in need is Jessie, at Strawberry Mountain, who has a large vet bill. We are going to donate $100 to help on it.

Remember $1.50 to $6.00 paypal to take care of the fees. Here is the website which has a paypal link for donations:

http://www.strawberrymountainmustangs.com/

And here is the snail mail address:

Strawberry Mountain Mustangs, Inc.

PO Box 2133

Roseburg, Oregon 97470

Remember collectively we can make a difference for a horse at a rescue.

Thanks to everyone for making this a success. Remember every buck helps. Your pocket change is welcome here.

Please report your donations on the FOB $1-$5 Alive Drive thread on the discussion forum.

Thanks,

Margie

Kate here - have my marching orders for tomorrow's calls. Just hugged Max (my FOB rescue) and my other horse Zach. I got my pictures back of our Seguin rescued mare who foaled last week. Bruce and I went to see her, the new baby and the other rescued horses at Dixie's on Sunday. He is such a sweet boy and all the horses are doing so well. Makes this all so worthwhile. We need to put aside the Missouri fiasco and get the federal legislation passed. I know we can do this. Good night Alex, good night all and God bless.

Hi, Kate!

I always enjoy your posts. Now, you speak of baby horses...you know what this means. Duty calls, Kate. Bring on the photos!!

Echoing Angel Dee's many beautiful rainbows to our Alex, for who you are and all that you do . . . .

Cheers and Love to you Alex, always. . . .
Lou Ann

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Lou Ann. You Are In My Heart So A lot So. All, All All Angelic Beautiful Glowing Rainbows To You.

Affirmed

Hay Ebberbuddy...I arrived safely in British Columbia!!!!Thank you for all the prayers!!!

###
Alex...WE LOVE YOU!!!

Jerri have that sweet little foal PLEASE!!! God bless Jerri keep her safe tonight and always.Amen

HUGS and love to Alex and ALL!!!!

Barb, Chunky and the incredible Punky.
So sorry about Winston.
Fly, fly precious one...your gentle journey has just begun...Fly little wing. Always in our hearts....
SusanW.