Hello FOBs

Hello Alex

Great article in Talkin Horses. I check in occasionally. Still have Barbaro's pic as my screen saver. Just wanted to let you know that one of my neighbors brought up horse slaughter and they are not a horse or racing enthusiast. It's in the mass consciousness now and a passion for many. Good work FOBs. Thanks for this site Alex.

Have a great day all.
Donna

Hiya, FsOB, and thanks to Donna for your energizing entry, the one with which we'll all start our day. A reminder to all FsOB in CT, RI, NY, & Mass.: this Saturday is the 4th Annual Celebration of the Horse to benefit Mitchell Farm Equine Retirement. The farm is on Route 82 in Salen, CT. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the gate. You may call 860-303-8705 or you may reach Dee at the Farm by writing to: dee@mitchellfarm.org

#### To Otherlyn, please don't leave here! Your writing is a lyrical inspiration to us all. ####

### Otherlyn

I have always been fascinated by what to me are the overnight conversations that I read in the morning. I still read - not all of the comments all of the time, but what catches my attention - but there are fewer to get through these days. I am sure I miss a lot on the DB, but I look there too. This place means different things to different people. I have always been somewhat semi-detached, an ocean away and not entirely understanding what's going on, but I'm still here. I would miss you if you went away.

Hay, FOB's

###
I have been reading the comments from last night.

###
Otherlyn, we each are "allowed" to feel what we feel, communicate what we communicate. Each of us deals with grief differently...use that grief as a springboard for positive action...that transforms grief into something beautiful...that action clears the heart and lets us love again.

We may be going thru "growing pains"...

Change in direction? I might phrase it differently.

Our strength is our ability to focus on many different issues at once...racetrack safety, laminitis, rescue, retirement, therapy riding.We can "multi-task" and do it beautifully.

We need to use that diversity...keep doing what we're doing because we do it soooo well.

And now we have one more focal point...

The Clydesdales. If there is a more public symbol of all that is beautiful, all that represents enlightened stewardship of horses (along with Barbaro,LITF,etc.), show it to me. I want InBev and Cindy McCain and the board of A-B to be held accountable for any action taken with the Clydesdales. We can utilize this as another focal point for equine welfare. We can be politely relentless about communicating with legislators...why not InBev?

We have been browbeaten by our "leaders" into accepting our lives as being fearful, as being something that defeats us. We are led to believe that we have to pay high gas prices...in order for Bush to lift sanctions on offshore drilling or to force us to accept other "explorations" in protected areas, for the Mustangs to be culled for reasons that don't hold water...we are being "squeezed" to our limits of our comfort zones in order to cave into what our leaders want...

Nooooooooooo....

We are slowly waking up to see how we are being manipulated and we need to keep waking up. I'm not going to turn this into a political diatribe, but all I will say is...

Look around you...start digging and researching into what appear to be "facts"....nothing is as it appears.

As far as AAHS, I'll keep going to the site to see what their strategy is...however, I'd be a little more comforted knowing there was a lobbyist in DC who could continue to keep ending horse slaughter as a high-profile issue, as a springboard for other changes that need to be made within our legislative system.

Haven't had anything to eat yet so this is totally stream-of-consciousness and incoherent.

We need to keep waking up...

Healing, Love, Peace
ONS
Padme

Happy Wednesday FOBs

I'm heading back to FL today (from PA). Sorry I didn't get to meet anyone at DelPark Sunday. I'm glad that I did make the trail ride at Fair Hills on Saturday and meet many of you there.

There have been issues with Kaiser again and that had me so upset it pretty much ruined my trip. Monday he is going to have surgery again and they will take a bone sliver for biopsy. The xray yesterday was not conclusive but did show some screws in the leg loosened.

My next post will be from FL. Have a great day everyone.

Janice
A forever FOB

Kate here - I wanted to give an update on Beau. We're not out of the woods yet but there has been definite improvement. He is moving around in his pen and is putting some weight on the leg. I spoke to the vet and he is encouraged. The swelling is still there and I'm not sure if its gone down or not - looking at it all the time its hard to tell. Thank you for your prayers and please continue to pray. As for me, my bruises are turning lovely shades of purple but I'm feeling much better. God bless.

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

On their behalf:

MORNING POST/SHELLEYA, DEBRA, WI/AAHS:

STRATEGY FOR WEDNESDAY, JULY 16

Both the Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), and Senate Majority Leader, Harry Reid (D-NV), have the power to bring the bill up for consideration in their respective chambers, therefore it is vital that as many people as possible, both at the grassroots level and internally within Congress, insist that the House Speaker and Senate Majority Leader do everything in their power to afford the bills legislative due process and bring them immediately to the floor for a vote.

Speaker of the House - Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) DC Phone: 202-225-4965 Fax:202-225-4188
Senate Majority Leader - Harry Reid (D-NV) DC Phone: 202-224-3542 Fax:202-224-7327

It is our understanding that more co sponsors would certainly facilitate our efforts with Speaker of the House Pelosi and draw the much needed attention to this legislation. For this reason, we will be posting the names of Representatives that we will be targeting.

Joe Baca – CA
Phone: 202-225-6161 Fax: 202-225-8671
Aide: John Lowery

Ken Calvert – CA
Phone: 202-225-1986 Fax: 202-225-2004
Aide: Chris Marklund

Darrell Issa – CA
Phone: 202-225-3906 Fax: 202-225-3303
Aide: Veronica Wong

Mark Udall – CO
Phone: 202-225-2161 Fax: 202-226-7840
Aide: Adam Jones

Chris Murphy – CT
Phone: 202-225-4476 Fax: 202-225-5933
Aide: Jessie Young

Tim Mahoney – FL
Phone: 202-225-5792 Fax: 202-225-3132

Please continue to gather information from your calls and pass that information on to us via email through the DB.

Finally, please mention Americans Against Horse Slaughter when making your calls and remind them that we are a non funded, grassroots group of people from across the country brought together for the sole purpose of passing this legislation. It is important that they know we have NO OTHER agenda.

We are BARBARO’S VOICE……Let it be heard!!

Shelley and Deb

Posted by: Debra, WI at July 16, 2008 12:39 AM

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

Good morning from the Downeast, fellow Fans!

I agree with Padme - this site has become a meeting place for people from all over the world (A tip of the hat especially to LizUK who has been here forever!)who are interested in all things Barbaro AND all things horse. We have brought our other interests with us and that makes for some discomfort at times. The number one effect that being involved here has had on my life is to pull me out of the shadows and into activity to make changes. I am not as vocal as some but I am committed to ending slaughter and transport to slaughter. It hit me several months ago that once we have our prayers answered and the legislation is law, that we cannot simply rest on our laurels and say "There! That's taken care of!" The next phase will be education - - of the law enforcement community and the general public. We will still need to be vigilant because just because it's illegal does not mean it will cease. The killer buyers will just become even more devious in their operations. And I plan to be out there on the roads, making sure the authorities know when the laws are being broken.

That said, I certainly understand the frustration and fatigue and anger we are experiencing. So, I say, take care of yourselves and by all means, take some time off to reframe your feelings and emotions. Examine your reasons for being here. And don't let anyone else tell you what to feel.

Marg in Maine
Proud Fan of Barbaro (and the FsOB!) forever

###
Janice - In my haste I forgot to say that I am keeping you and Kaiser in my thoughts.

Marg

Regarding the community here: I have to believe that there are others here who are like me. I can't post or comment very often but I am always here, writing, calling, donating, and trying to help in anyway I can. My husband is disabled and I work a lot of hours but he's calling the legislators every day and I'm emailing (no fax)before work each morning. And we have our own little group of 20 relatives and friends (in 3 states) that are helping us. We will never give up until all our horses are safe from slaughter. I know that you all feel that way too. We all get frustrated but I know that we will succeed. It's amazing how one horse has changed the lives of so many. God bless all of you.

Perhaps now is the time to remember what Mrs. Jackson said asked all of us who love Barbaro to do: Continue his legacy in whatever path you decide is the correct path for you.

Apologies to Cheryl Jones for my erroneous post yesterday...it was NOT the Japanese who bought controlling interest in New York's Chrysler Building, it was the government of Abu Dhabi which purchased 90% interest in the building from German investors...so United States company/ies didn't own the building anyway. FYI, investigate how much of Manhattan real property IS owned by the Japanese.

The point of this, of course, goes back to one of America's icons, the Budweiser Clydesdales! It is frightening to research just how many things/places that we consider representative of America as we think we know it are actually controlled by foreign interests...the country is, in many areas, being sold out from under us.

###Mirabel, thinking of you today with positive thoughts that the results are good news. Relieved to hear that Hans is holding his own and will recover from this set back. Yes, we are twins in soul for the love of Barbaro and all horses. Take care "fren".

###Otherlyn, please take some time to read all of the posts here regarding this forum, everyone has said it all so well and perhaps you will find some strength from them. Most of all do what you feel in your heart.

###Prayers for healing for all our furkids in need.

Have a safe day everyone,

Judy

Lots of angst here last night.
I think we're going through growing pains--just as does any family. This is why, --i feel--peoples feel comfortable in expressing their frustrations, their humor, their need for prayer or comfort or just plain help. It's Famblee: much more significant to me than Family...

And just real quickly; we're a quilt. We need everyone. I do not mourn Barbaro everyday. But show me the promo tape that was shot for the Barbaro Fund at NBC of Dr. R leading the still proud, but much diminshed Barbaro down a leafy incline in the shade...I'll lose it anywhere anytime. I have him cavorting in his roundpen as my screensaver, and ever will I remember him... flying like a greyhound around the track, outdistancing his competitors, young, whole and so very alive.

One more thing: lobbyists: Cheryl: no way can you compare three days in DC with an all volunteer group--as dear as their hearts were connected to their cause--to a PAID, hard as nails, saavy with the evils of the government LOBBYIST. And yes, probably should be a man. That's the world we live in. We night to fight fire with fire. I love John Holland and Daryl--alot--but they could be so much more effective working with someone who eats staple guns for breakfast, and knows how to play these, our DULY ELECTED OFFICIALS.

If there is one thing that I have learned over the last 2+ years, it is that (not an original thought by any means) our governmental system does not work. It needs desperately to change. But when that will happen--who knows. And our horses are DYING. Everyday I talk to The Leetle Aides I remind them of that fact.

And we cannot waste time WAITING for change to come. We have to BE THE CHANGE> ANd hiring a tough, smart lobbyist--betcha the AHAA could roust one up for us to consider--would begin us down this road.

I have to feed beasts. I love yole, you are my Famblee. There are good reasons why you don't see familiar names on the ABR or the DB anymore. Peoples just cannot take anymore. And I think we have all been in that cycle once or twice.

In fact, I bless Daryl for admitting that he had a bad patch last winter. What a guy. I think many of us have been there too. And it sucks.

People are not ignored--as I have been told--time moves fast on the ABR--used to move a lot faster, but there you have it. Gotta say your peace and toughen up and keep on marching. It's really all we can do.

I have pictures of horses dying at slaughter in my head that are there forever, unfortunately. On many days, I wish we could put those images into the heads of our DULY ELECTED GOVERNMENTAL OFFICIALS and then I'll bet they'd stop worrying about the redecoration of their private jets, and think of those horses dying in such a terrible way.

Maybe then, action would come.
xxoo: j
Courage (There's a reason I sign off with that little/huge word. We all need it to keep going.)

###When Barbaro was at New Bolton, we had a common cause to celebrate each morning ("ACN") and hopes for good things throughout the day, all focused on the BBH and his connections.

###Now, more than a year later, we have other focal points--more than one "common cause"--to pique our interests and give us something to work on.

###I think because there are more causes here now, the family is fragmented. My personal interest is rescue, and I help where I can. Others are phoning and faxing--that is where THEIR personal interests lay and what makes THEM feel good, productive, effective (pick one).

There are MANY others: Angel House, backstretch working conditions, Edgar's book (and books by others), his racing career, the issue of drug use, whip abuse, retirement, track surface, the kindness and compassion shown by owners and people in charge of tracks who are starting up retirement programs "on the spot," and on and on.

###I've said before that AWARENESS is the first step to bringing about change. That started because millions of people watched that horrific Preakness and then followed the events that transpired. Almost immediately Barbaro became the horse of everyone's heart--from the police escort of the ambulance to New Bolton (with new agencies taking over when jurisdictions changed) to the people who parked on the overpasses and beside the highway to watch the procession make its way to the hospital.

And of course we all know about Tim Woolley Racing and Alex's contributions that gave all of us a place to meet and speak from our own hearts.

###That awareness has grown from Barbaro to laminitis, slaughter, rescue, to a Congress composed of members who think they know better than those who elected them about what is best for ourselves and our country--and who now has an 8 percent approval rating. EIGHT PERCENT.

THEY don't have to rely on Social Security, which is broken NOW, when they retire but won't permit today's younger workers to invest some of their SS contribution in other retirement options--and some who can afford to buy their votes every time their term comes to an end will never have to retire. They keep getting re-elected and belly up to the public breast and continue to feed at our expense.

Voters aren't learning from history and are continuing to repeat it--with the same cast of characters. Granted it's dealing with "the devil we know," but it's getting tiresome and EXPENSIVE.

(Sorry. On that darned soapbox again).

### Many times I comment and no one responds, but I have said what I think and that's fine with me. My purpose is to support those who need a good word here and there, to read and consider opinions or beliefs expressed that are different from my own, and "get my fix" every morning seeing what has gone on before--finding out how "familiar names" are doing and what has happened in the lives of our fur families.

###The issue of slaughter and rescue are "hot button" topics for many (those who "get it"), and sometimes their impassioned beliefs get the better of them. We are ALL sensitive souls (who "get it"--that's one of the reasons WHY we "get it") and it's easy to get hurt feelings.

I would hope that we can hold our own beliefs first and foremost and permit others whose beliefs are not the same as ours to have their say--and try very hard not to take things personally.

Speaking for myself, I would hate to see anyone in our family leave. I enjoy the debate.

###We ARE doing good works. All of us. Remember that ;o)

###Alex, thank you again.

### I am wondering about the concern here for the Clydesdales. I havent heard anything here in St. louis that would make me concerned about it. From what I heard that things sound like they wont change much as far as the Clydesdales, Grants farm, (where they are raised). I think lost jobs are the big concerns. The clydesdales are a symbol of that company and from all reports I have heard, that wont change. I dont like the buyout, but I think a lot of people are jumping to conclusions. Jen

My sympathies to MICHAEL DICKINSON, whose mother Monica died yesterday in the UK. For those of us fortunate enough to meet Michael in April '07 at Fair Hill, he shared much knowledge about his Tapeta track...and a great deal of that droll British humour!

### go the Paulick report. There is a story about How Iowa racing has started a fund to pay for injured race horses to be operated on and then retired to their retirement foundation. The first such program in the country. I tried to copy and paste but it didnt work. Jen

####
KAY
"They keep getting re-elected and belly up to the public breast and continue to feed at our expense."

Ah, Kay. That was a truly disgusting and truly fitting description of those people WE elected to DO THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE whose Leetle Aides will archly ask of the caller, "And are you a CONSTITUENT?"

I USUALLY ANSWER, "OF THE USA, YOU MEAN??" GRRRRR.

Good one, Kay.

## As we can see - we all support in different ways. For those who light candles for our Beloved Barbaro ...... his are about to slip below 100.

I cannot blue link - but the site is: www.gratefulness.org.

Sherry

###
Otherlyn

Dear fren
THANK YOU for your LOVE !! After ALL it is LOVE that brought US ALL HERE....IT IS LOVE that KEEPS US HERE and LOVE that MAKES US FIGHT HARDER....LOVE THAT MAKES US CONTINUE....LOVE THAT BINDS THIS FAMBLEE !

IF you are "a wacko" there are hundreds and thousands of US still carrying on BARBAROS LEGACY!!

ISN'T IT TRULY AMAZING WHAT A BUNCH OF WACKOS CAN ACCOMPLISH ??????!!!!!!!!!!!
Why I'll bet there are a bazillion organizations that would die to have US WACKOS !!!!

AS FAR AS COMMENTS and BEING IGNORED....I post MY OPINIONS and MY THOUGHTS....if you comment that is NICE!! IF you do not ...that is nice too!!! I will have had my say...BUT THERE IS NO NEED FOR ANYONE TO BE HURTFUL TO ANYONE!!! A person who would do that is NOT PART of BARBAROS FAMBLEE is NOT HOOF-SELECTED should GET LOST and I'm NOT INTERESTED in THEM and THEY ARE NOT HONORING HIS LEGACY....THEY ARE NOT FOB!!!!!

I do not know what happened last evening....I was exhausted and retired early....YOU DEAR FREN MUST FINISH WHAT YOU STARTED in THISGOODPLACE !! IT is VITAL to what we are trying to accomplish !! DO NOT LET ANYONE DETRACT FROM WHAT YOU ARE DOING !!!
THE HORSES ARE COUNTING ON YOU.....

I LOVE YOU...you and I know where this drivel is really coming from ....ALL IS NOT AS IT SEEMS!!!
DON'T LEAVE...BECAUSE WE WILL WIN!!! IT IS WRITTEN....

####
SO FOB...THINK!!! IS BEING HURTFUL an FOB TRAIT??
WOULD IT MAKE BARBARO PROUD??? WOULD IT HONOR HIM?? DOES INSULTING and HURTING PEOPLE HELP US ACCOMPLISH OUR GOALS HERE????

PERHAPS....some appologies are in order????

Now ...I must get ready for my appointment with the heart specialist...

HUGS and love

### Nancy in CT

Things in Britain are just the same as America as regards "selling off the family silver". Just about anything will be sold to the highest bidder. Let future generations worry about the consequences.

We were very sad across the pond to hear of the death of Monica Dickinson, a fine horsewoman and trainer like her husband and son:
Tributes flow after the death of Monica Dickinson

### Hi Marg! Good to see you posting today.

Good Morning Gang.

I have read EVERYONE'S posts. As I always do. And I'll act upon some of them in silence. But I am here, and I still love all of the people here, even if I don't post very much. Sometimes we work alone, whether from need or that's the only way we can make progress.

I had to work alone last week on an idea I had posted here that was squashed. I helped people save $6368.00 in hay. And sometimes that's what we have to do - our own thing. Not all will agree on ideas, and the way I see it - time's a wastin', so I'll go off on my own. My big butt is heavy enough, and I can't have anything else dragging me down.

I still buy lottery tickets for the horses. And I have been contacted by a second developer looking for land for a wind farm. And this one is a big outfit. The first outfit is fledgling.

So keep going everyone. It may be a simple thing called factions. Groups have formed and kind of become elitist unto themselves. And that's OK. We're all in it to help the animals.

I remember the good "old days". We had such hope for Barbaro. And many laughs, some disrespectful, but they were hilarious, weren't they???? Remember the tool belts? Hiding in the bushes in Halloween costumes? I always visualized Renee and I on a bulldozer at Cavel with a cooler full of Barbarotinis. And then a manure spreader was added. We could dream, couldn't we? Maybe that's what's needed. Laughter, again, without getting put down. We need to have a broader field of emotions. It would make a healthier board.

Off the soap box. Lucky is doing very well this morning. The past couple of days he has shown lots of improvement. Thanks to all that posted their feelings for him.

For CJaffe...thanks for the clarification about "graft" v. "draft" in the Rep Whitfield editorial on Paulick. It took me about 3 rereadings to figure the correct usage of "Graft"...my mind went straight to the gutter, negative usage, not the healing/growth usage.

Vote for Curlin' and his next challenge?...is that a hoot or what??? Only in America would the majority owner of a stellar horse ask the American public for an opinion. Thank you Mr. Jackson. You are a breath of sorely needed fresh air. I like it!!!!

For OtherLyn...hang in there. There will always be good days and bad days. Remember the horses when the bad days blow you off course. Remember Barbaro when some folks hurt your heart.

Denise(coeurdefer)

Curlin's future? He can come here. I have a spare bedroom and a private bath for him.

Hay, FOB's!

###
Prayers to Michael Dickinson and his family for the transition of his mother.

###
re the Clydesdales...I did not mean to sound paranoid. I have lived thru more corporate mergers than I care to remember. But I also know about the slash-and-burn tactics companies use during the mergers to trim the bottom line and I remember the outright lies they spoke - the smiles did not reach their eyes and that is how I knew. All I could do was watch as good people were hurt. I am not saying InBev is the same, but I expect their actions to back up their words. All I ask is for those who live in the St.Louis area to please keep a watchful eye on the horses and those affected by the buyout. If there is anything the FOB's need to do to bring awareness to A-B or InBev, any assistance we can offer, we need to know as soon as possible.

Healing, Love, Peace
ONS
Padme

(((((Margie in NM)))))))))))

(((((Denise(coeurdefer)))))))))))

gotta go NOW!!!

Lyn- that has been the fear here in St. louis since this all started, but I think after yesterday when the takeover guy came to town, the employees seem to think that some good may come out of it. Who knows? jen

I've got my two cents to put in..but I have to do some paid work first...be back later..

MargieinNM...I'm rolling on the floor!
No you can't have him...he needs grass, lots of grass.
I say he moves to my shack. It's a dump, but lots of grass here in VA. You have a ton of rocks and sand ( ;) LOL) and those huge, albeit beautiful mountains...I mean BIG MOUNTAINS.

We have weenie, albeit beautiful mountains.

I volunteer to rehome Curlin' for distance and turf training in the beautiful foothills of the Blue Ridge Mtns and Northern Piedmont.

Denise(coeurdefer)

OK Denise. You take him for the winter, and I'll take him for the summer. It's less humid. I do have waist high prairie grass, but I can supplement. :-D

For most effectiveness in our daily contacts - IMO - pls tailor your spiel to the HS history of the target. Here's the skinny on the Reps on today's (Wednesday July 16) ABR target list.

HS History - None cosponsored HR 503 in the 109th. Mahoney is new to the 110th Congress and so has no history with that bill; the others’ votes on 503 are shown below. They all voted YES on HR 249 in the 110th Congress except Mahoney (FL) who voted NO.

Joe Baca CA (Y on 503; Y on 249)
Phone: 202-225-6161 Fax: 202-225-8671
Aide: John Lowery

Ken Calvert CA (Y on 503; Y on 249)
Phone: 202-225-1986 Fax: 202-225-2004
Aide: Chris Marklund

Darrell Issa CA (Y on 503; Y on 249)
Phone: 202-225-3906 Fax: 202-225-3303
Aide: Veronica Wong

Mark Udall CO (N on 503; Y on 249)
Phone: 202-225-2161 Fax: 202-226-7840
Aide: Adam Jones

Chris Murphy CT (N on 503; Y on 249)
Phone: 202-225-4476 Fax: 202-225-5933
Aide: Jessie Young

Tim Mahoney FL (new; N on 249)
Phone: 202-225-5792 Fax: 202-225-3132

(Note from CJ - per Mahoney’s online bio - his daughter Bailey is “a scholarship equestrian athlete at Oklahoma State U.” Ideas please - how can we use this info???)

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

Thank those who voted YES on HR 503; use their prior support of the slaughter ban bill when urging them to cosponsor now. "DO THE RIGHT THING AGAIN - support the slaughter/export ban - but this time, cosponsor...."

As for those who voted NO on 503 in the 109th - "changed circumstances call for a fresh look with an open mind" - and the closure of all the slaughter plants within the US is a huge changed circumstance, so that even though they may have opposed 503 in the past, they should support it now because of the export situation.

ooops - sorry - I am always too quick with these cut&pastes.

this par should read:

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

Okay Jonna you win. hire a lobbyist. you're right. 100%, infallibly, absolutely perfectly right, so forge on. get a lobbyist. while we're tortured here at the absence of funds to support and sustain rescues, hire a lobbyist. That's the ONLY way. A tough, staple eating GUY who can take the elected officials on singlehandly.

I'll check in from time to time to see how that's going.

JOE:
*****************************************************
Wednesday, July 16th...

Yesterday in a Northern California chat room, RAndrews, Horsekid94, TonkaToy, PineCone, and NSands came together to save the life of a gray thoroughbred gelding. All 5 had to toss a hundred bucks into the pool. The gray gelding was moved to his new home with Nikki who lives in Vacaville, and Ryan Andrews provided transportation.

Also yesterday in this same chat room, Holly229, RAndrews, and DramaQueen5 each threw in $30.00 to buy a tank of gas. The gas was used to pick up an older hungry thoroughbred mare in Turlock, and bring her to a very caring lady in Woodland.

A big Thank You to Holly Meeks who keeps me in the loop. All that is being done for horses in trouble.

By now you yawn whenever I moan about our dial up computer. A fire station not far away has high speed internet, and Mike Baker says soon we will too. Many e-mails are not reaching us. Always remember, it is much faster to phone than write. My cell is 530-383-2120.

Holly Meeks has fixed our Kodak program. For the most part we are up to speed. Holly leaves this morning for Idaho, where she will spend two weeks with her boyfriend. A summer vacation of hiking, long trail rides, and evening meals over a camp fire. There are rivers to play in. Holly promises pictures of her adventure, and she says our computer will accept her pictures just fine.

Later today we will greet two more horses from two different race tracks. Also a gelding from a feed lot. There is employment for three hours at another ranch, earning the big bucks. Leg wraps come off. Fly masks go on. Scooping endless piles of poop. We might be 91 degrees. This morning hot coffee is from Dunkin Doughnuts, and toast with strawberry jam is made by Earth Grains. Chicago on the oldies station. A special hello to Nicole in Del Mar, and enjoy your day of looking at thoroughbreds. A special hello to Kristina in Pomona, and yes you can come visit Badgett. My e-mail to you Kristina was returned. Enjoy your beautiful smoke is finally going away Wednesday, and be sure to hug your horses. A fruit punch Gatorade kind of day...

Joe

Top Left: We are incredibly blessed to have so much help. Jenny Hartman is always there when I need a ride. My old ranch truck was being fixed in Woodland. Of course Jenny and I had to stop for a strawberry & cream at Starbucks.

Top Right: This is Jay, a wonderful man who repairs all my broken vehicles. Jay has even made house calls, coming to our ranch to help. Jay charges us very little. A great guy.

Bottom Left: Say hello to Oh Mandy, a thoroughbred mare who we recently bought from horse killer Manny Phelps. Oh Mandy is in neglected shape with bad feet, but yesterday our farrier Tim made her feel better. Oh Mandy loves carrots but not peppermints.

Bottom Right: A new picture refuses to load, so you get to look at Fade To Blue. He earned gobs of money as a race horse, and now Blue lives in our north field.

####
Cheryl:
I am sorry you're so upset.
I support the rescues. nearly every day. lots of us do.

IF--and I am sure we won't--"we" decide to get a lobbyist, the money will have to come from one of the biggies in the horse racing/breeding world. Or someone like Bo Derek: no there's a thought! I have already suggested this, and there was no one who jumped at the hint, so there you have it.

I just got done spending an hour talking to The Leetle Aides, and we'll plod along. And probably have to go into the 111th session. I'll be there. Will you? Did you make your calls today?

Hey: this stuff isn't up to me. The Powers that Be will have to shove anything as RADICAL as the hiring of a LOBBYIST. Girl: I am a nobody: just doing what I can to get it done. And one thing age has taught me is that expecting different results from doing the same thing over and over and over again is insane. We need a new gig.

Maybe some chocolate would help: seriously. Calm down. As my brother-in-law would say, "Girl, it's all good...)
xxoo: j
Courage

####
MARIBEL
Good thoughts for your vist to the cardiologist.
####
Margie NM
A windfarm! We have one not far from here, and it is awesome to stand close to the towers and just take it in...they are bolted to concrete foundations that are 20 feet deep. So cool. If I had the land, they'd be out there right now...WAAAAAAAAAY too logical for Washington, though.
ALSO: go Lucky go!

####
AND Curlin? think he could pass for a greyhound? lol....

Sorry have not had time to post but thanks for everyone's emails, thoughts and prayers. Nala is doing better, she had her first acupunture last Friday which she slept thru and will have another this week. The vet is pretty optimistic he can help her to walk. Otherwise her attitude is great, she is much improved.

Over Enough is a different story. The vet from Payson Park who works on all the top thoroughbreds came over this morning,he said we have to take him Friday to the clinic where he goes for his ethmoid. The vet said it is a serious injury to his elbow, he said very rare. He cannot walk and the vet is worried about laminitis. We will put him on heavy amounts of bute again. His vet at that clinic is Dr. Richardson's best friend so he will be in good hands. Please pray for him.

I will be making calls to our congressmen from his stall today. Awesome to see Ask the Lord adopted by the McPeek's.

Barbaro you live in my Heart. Sorry I am late today but things are a bit out of hand at the office.

Good afternoon wonderful creatures at MHR.

FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION! PLEASE CALL, FAX, E-MAIL!

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

Ro & Brady

####
FOR CJ
I just want to take a minute for singling out our CJ. What a woman. She reminds me of those one-man/woman bands with the cymbals strapped to the knees, trumpets, harmonicas, drums, keyboards.

She does more for this cause in one day than I can manage in a week, I am sure. And then she does more.

Thank you CJ. For all of it. And the Kittehs too...
xxoo: j
COURAGE!

### Cheryl- Jonna- I dont want to butt in, but it seems there seems to be a disagreement about hiring a lobbyist. I dont know- but let me tell you one thing i learned from walking around with Daryl one afternoon. The ONE thing that this group and movement has going for it, is that it isnt a lobbyist group calling for this. That is the one thing we were asked over and over. Are you lobbyists? NO- WE ARE JUST AMERICANS WHO WANT THIS DONE. VOTERS THAT TAKE THE TIME TO GET INVOLVED. Its a struggle and its very disheartening. After being treated like a piece of dirt during a house committee meeting, I cried and felt like nothing was going to happen. Then- the next day my rep called me and apologized on behalf of many other reps who had heard about my treatment. He said- dont get down- lots of districts are getting flooded with calls and many of them are on your side. Those calls were coming from you guys. And a lot of people were listening. We have more power than a lobbyists in many ways. So stick together. Jen

EXTRA WEDNESDAY July 16 NAT'L TARGET LIST (HAHS)

Today's HAHS list of Senators is NOW posted below and at this DB Thread:

http://forums.delphiforums.com/alexbrown/messages?msg=26464.1

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 2008 WHITE PAPER are at 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 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 all three former horse slaughter houses in this country are closed permanently; and Cavel (Dekalb IL) lost its appeal and the US Sup Ct just refused further review. 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 (Wednesday 7/16/08) 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."

extra Wednesday 7/16 NATIONAL TARGET LIST (HAHS)

HS History - All but Feingold cosponsored S 1915 in the 109th Congress.

IMO - Thank the former cosponsors - but tell 'em: "WHY NOT NOW?!?!?!" "DO THE RIGHT THING AGAIN!"

WISCONSIN
Senator Russell D. Feingold
Fax: 202-224-2725 Phone: 202-224-5323
506 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510-4904

FLORIDA
Senator Bill Nelson
Fax: 202-228-2183 Phone: 202-224-5274
716 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510-0903

Senator Mel Martinez
Fax: 202-228-5171 Phone: 202-224-3041
356 Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510-0904

SOUTH CAROLINA
Senator James DeMint
Fax: 202-228-5143 Phone: 202-224-6121
340 Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510-4002

(Note from CJ: I have been told by his staff that DeMint will not cs S 311 though he did cs S 1915, because of a committee position; IMO acknowledge this to the aide/LD you talk to, and ask them to ask DeMint to DO WHATEVER HE CAN to try to get S 311 to a vote - including asking DeMint to ask Sen Harry Reid to try to move it along.)

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.

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)

####
Hi Everyone,

I just wanted to update everyone on the 2008 Celebration DVD.

Many FOB's have pre-ordered this year's DVD, which is great!! If you did not get to sign the pre-order sheet over the weekend, or have not emailed me previously, and are interested in purchasing this year's Celebration DVD, please email me. (asa26amy@comcast.net) I am not collecting any payments at this time, but I am compiling a list, so I know how many copies to make. The price this year is $22.00 per DVD. Included this year is our visit to Fair Hill Training Center, Fair Hill Stables for
trail rides, the Saturday night fundraiser, and of course the Celebration at the Grove at Delaware Park. There are also a few surprises that I'm sure will thrill all of you.

(I did start a thread on the Forum (25611.1) and also sent an email to FOB's who had purchased last year's DVD. But I know that some may still have missed the information.)

As most of you know, all proceeds from the DVD (after duplication and shipping costs), are being donated to the Laminitis Fund at New Bolton Center. As this disease affects all horses, and I only became aware of the disease through our beloved Barbaro, that is why I have chosen this charity for my fundraising efforts. Andy and I have completely volunteered all of our time shooting all weekend, and now editing, which takes many many hours.

As I am nearing completion, I will email everyone who has pre-ordered, and at that time will be accepting payments.

Last year's DVD took me about a month to edit--I had to get it just right. It's a time-consuming, challenging, and very worthwhile process. Graphics, music, special effects, sifting through footage, etc.---all combine to produce the final masterpiece, LOL.

As a producer, my goal in all of my videos is to tell a story. Last year's story focused on how a diverse group of people formed an online community, and gathered together to celebrate the life of their beloved champion, Barbaro. This year, the champion is the same, but the story is a little different--it's more about how the Barbaro legacy goes on.

I want to thank all the FOB's who participated in the video this year--I didn't really have to twist too many arms to get interviews, which just says that the FOB's love to talk about
anything related to Barbaro.

Please contact me with any questions that I may not have addressed here. Again, thank you to everyone who has pre-ordered the DVD. It's coming soon!!!

P.S. To any FOB's who held celebrations around the country, please send me your photos, so I can include them in the DVD as well.

P.P.S. Last year's DVD earned over $3,400 for the Laminitis Fund!! Thanks to the generosity of the FOB's!!

Sincerely,

I find it curious that any legislator and/or his or her staff qualify issues with "are you a lobbyist". That's poop! They know who all the lobbyists are...and cow tow(sp?) to most of them. Oh paleeze!!! What hypocrits. Stenholm seems to be one and gets quite the face time with the Congress.

What's missing here?... is it:

(1) they fail to mention that you aren't one of THEIR lobbyists; and,
(2) they (the leetle aides) don't want to let the "leetle people" know how business is really conducted on Capitol Hill...through lobbyists!

I think it's worth considering(lobbyists). But I'm a bit ticked at ASPCA and HSUS because they DO have lobbyists and seem to have different, sometmes similar agendas but not united in approach. Suffering from, the not invented here syndrome or better yet, I don't want to relinquish any control(power) regarding same.

Denise(coeurdefer)

Chocolate?? my angst is hormonal, perhaps?? no. don't think so. Rather borne of frustration at having efforts made to create productive constructive conversation going and postive reinforcement or accomplishments get continuously squashed. and the truly frustrating aspect of that is those who tend to steer away those subjects are those who most frequenty berate others of not doing enough. nope. done. Will wait for the DVD to come out. Might even by the teeshirt

Okay, back for my 2 cents..

All I have to say about ABR and the United States can be summed up in one quote from Abraham Lincoln...& it is scary how strong the signs are for both...

"America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves."
Abraham Lincoln

As for Curlin. Margie, I love you and Denise I'm sure you're a fine person, but I will give Curlin the best home and welcome Pancho as well on my farm here in the Bluegrass.. And I'm sure Curlin would rather be here because I can take him whenever he wants to go see the true love of his life..Ragsy...

Cheryl- I am sorry if you thought I was trying to squash your idea. I wasnt. I was just adding my experiences. Jen

***Hariette...you are crackin' me up!!! Your quote from Lincoln is right on. And he suffered great loss, pain and rejection AND deciet. God does give us special people to help us through the bad times.

I still think I'm the best choice for Curlin's schooling home! LOL ;)!!! But I'll give the Bluegrass State a close second and NM (MargieinNM) some consideration when discussing the future for Curlin' with Mr. Jackson.....YAH! Right...in my dreams. Plus I forgot about Pancho's needs and the babes you have in KY. I guess you're right...KY (pun intended, as in the lubricant...ok, that was tacky) would be a great schooling/training home for our man Curlin'. Got any point to points out your way. I think you have some.

Denise(coeurdefer)

Hi Everyone,
We hava an empty stall so Curlin and I can move right in together. Or he can move right in here with me I have a spare room, my room for him the living room is big enough to a BIG YARD. Dreamin' dreamin'..................ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

Otherlyn,
If you are here and reading this please don't leave my fren, you have been here since day one. Let me tell you a personal story. Barbaro, is and was very special to me. The other day at our open house I was talking about him and I had to excuse myself when I choaked and teared up. He was and still is very powerful. He has not been forgotten by his public. I look up to him just to say hi and smile with a thank you. If I need some strength, I will ask him for help. I would rather be known as a Barbaro wacko then alot of the mean spirited others that are walking around. Animal people are good people.
I am still a Barbaromaniac and I believe we will do what needs to be done in his name. I am PROUD being an FOB and PROUD of my fellow FOB's and knowing such great people that HE brought together.

Alex,
I had a dream about you last night, we finally met at a Barbaro function...you were wonderful! If you are ever in Connecticut please stop by.

Alrighty then. For all of those that want Curlin, you'll have to fight me for him. Fill up the carrot soup pool. I believe a wrestling match is close at hand. :-)

Jonna - they don't make greyhound costumes, so don't get any ideas about dressing Curlin up to fool us.

CJ is a great lady. And when she speaks with her legal tongue, I just get the chills. We love you, CJ.

Continued prayers for Beau, Nala, and Over Enough.

Margie, Jonna and I will make a greyhound costume for Curlin, they are close in looks one is just much bigger. My lime green boxing gloves are ready to go. LOL

Harriette, You have to share with us.

It will be nice to see Casino Drive and Yamamoto back in the states. Safe journey to all!

oh JEN no, no no..thanks for the apology but my comments were not directed at you. okay so I keep saying I'm going, but had to come back as I received an email about your post.

Your post, this and the earlier one, reinforces EXACTLY what I'm getting at. Why in the world are we not supporting the successes of those who walked the walk instead of ruminating about and putting so much focus on what isn't working at this moment. Sometimes it seems as though people forget the march (and AAHS) to DC ever even happened, there remain a few survivors who seem to think it's just their thoughts and ideas matter. very few. And those few seem to be closed "for discussion" That was my point.

I remember when you wrote back in March about your meetings and how upset you were, and I am willing to bet there are maybe one or two others here today (on this board) who recall that. I was also getting a pretty steady play-by-play from two others who were with you guys in DC. I thought you guys were absolutely phenomenal and I was SO PROUD to be part of that, if only 'at home support'.

My note also said something that caused me to give thought to this idea. Question the motives of the detractors. I haven't done that in the past. I will now.

Cheryl Jones you are not going anywhere. You belong here and you know it. ((((((Cheryl))))))

We are all entitled to our own opinions. it's really very simple.

Margie,
Casino Drive and his people are good to have here. I watched how they were with him and nothing mattered but the horse, it was nice to see the love and caring. He is very lucky and so are they.

Racing Commission approves limits on toe grabs

By WILL GRAVES, AP Sports Writer
Tuesday, July 15, 2008

LEXINGTON -- Horses running on Kentucky tracks next year could be running more naturally under a rule approved by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission on Monday.

Under the new guidelines, horses would not be permitted to race on toe grabs more than 2 millimeters long. The equipment, used on tracks for decades to help horses gain traction on the dirt, has come under fire recently after experts found the accumulation of mud under toe grabs while running puts too much pressure on the bones in a horse's front legs.

"If they put their foot down at a bad angle, and that toe grab grabs, they're going to have a catastrophic injury," KHRC chief steward John Veitch said. "Where if they slide, they're not going to have that, so the plusses far outweigh the minuses."

The filly Eight Belles, who was euthanized on the track at Churchill Downs following a breakdown moments after finishing second in the Kentucky Derby in May, was wearing toe grabs at the time of the accident. The length of the toe grabs Eight Belles was wearing during the race was unclear, though KHRC executive director Lisa Underwood said it didn't appear to factor in her death.

The toe grab rule could go into effect as early as the fall, though the KHRC's lengthy regulatory process makes it more likely the measure won't be on the books until 2009.

Next year is also likely the earliest new rules regarding steroids could go into effect. Gov. Steve Beshear named Dr. Jerry Yon as chair of the Equine Drug Research Council last week. Yon said Monday he hopes to "bring clarity" to the KHRC's stance on steroids.

The KHRC made no move to address the issue on Monday, though Underwood said the commission is "moving rapidly" toward a new steroids policy.

The KHRC also reported that deaths of horses on Kentucky tracks are down slightly so far this year compared with last year. There were seven fatal breakdowns at Churchill Downs during its recently completed spring meet, including the death of filly Eight Belles immediately following the Kentucky Derby. That's down from 10 at the 2007 spring meet.

Overall, there have been 17 fatal injuries at state tracks in 2008 compared with 18 during the first half of 2007.

Big Brown trainer Rick Dutrow will have a hearing with Underwood on July 29. Dutrow is appealing a 15-day suspension for having one of his horses test too high for the drug Clenbuterol.

Another top trainer, Steve Asmussen, was fined $250 by the KHRC for using abusive language while arguing with a starter at Churchill Downs on May 1, two days before the Derby

"Seek And Ye Shall Find In Rainbows"

From God's Loving Heart
The Most Beautiful Rainbow Glowing Barbaro
His Wings Of Love
Eight Belles God's Glowing Angel In The Sky
Her Wings Of Love
Angel Erin God's Precious Angel In The Sky
Her Wings Of Love Glowing In Rainbows
The Stars In The Sky At Night
For So Special Wishes
Our Angel Horses
Nicanor
God's Divine Hope
Your Wings Of Love Glowing In Rainbows
God's Light Of Love Shining On You
Lentanor
Glowing Angel
Your Wings Of Love Glowing In Rainbows
Glowing Angels
Glowing Wings
Curlin
So, So So Special Angel
Receiving All The Very Best
Your Glowing Wings Of Love In Rainbows
Barbaro's Famblee Of So, So So Beautiful Angels
All Here
Your Angelic Hearts Of Love
Your Wings Of Love Glowing In Rainbows
Angel Otherlyn
Angel Of Love
Angel Maribel And Angel Hans
Angelic Beautiful Glowing Rainbows
Barbaro's Halo Is Glowing So, So So Beautifully
All The Colors Of The Rainbow
The Circle Of Love
In Hearts
In Roses
In Hearts
In Halos
In Wings
In Rainbows
The Most Beautiful Rainbow Angel Barbaro
The Circle Of Angels
Barbaro's Angels
The Brennan Famblee
Our Angel Horses
You Are The Inspiration
Divinely Connected
Angel Kate And Beau
Kasier And Nala
The Wings Of Prayer
God's Love For You
God's Divine Blessings For You
The Rainbow Of God's Wonders
Beautiful Visioning
Beautiful Creations
Beautiful Inspirations
In Spirit
Divine Connection
Beautiful Dreams
Beautiful Signs
Become The Rainbow Garden On Earth
Glowing.........

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

Affirmed Rainbows........
Sacred Prayers........
God's Angels.......

Affirmed Rainbows........
God And The Angels Are With You........
Jesus........
Angel Barbaro........
Angel Eight Belles........
Angel Erin........
Angel Windchill........
Angel Secretariat.......
Angel Seattle Slew........
Angel Ruffian........
Angel Cuz.........
Angel Vindication........
Angel Vinstar........
Barbaro's Angel Frens Are With You.........
Angel LITF Is Lifting You Up In Halos........
Their Wings Of Love.........
Their Rainbows Of Love Are Shining On You Angels.........

Affirmed Blessings........
To Have Belief.......
To Have Vision.......
God Is With You........
Barbaro's Rainbow........

Affirmed

***MargieinNM....you're on! Carrot soup wrestling for Curlin'! Could anyone imagine a better fund raiser than that!?!? Winner takes Curlin', at least in spirit for a small piece of time/history.

But, better yet I think we should have a match in a grape/foot stompin' vat for those pearly grapes akin to Lucy(I Love Lucy) on her trip to Italy with respect to Mr. Jackson's vineyard connection.

You make me smile and laugh.

Denise(coeurdefer)

Hay all, I am still here although I rarely post. Full time job (even though self-employed) because the harder I work the more I can contribute, both to the worthy causes on the DB and also my own horses.

#Jonna, the reason people don't post 24/7 isn't that they can't take it any more, it's because they "GET IT" more than ever. Case in point: my dear husband talked a neighbor into surrendering his starving horse to us a couple of weeks ago. Now we have three - two FOB saves from the Centennial auction and our new, beautiful grey gelding named "Slim" by my husband. We had his teeth done, vaccinations, worming, etc. and feed him a special mix three times a day. Thanks to Barbaro, Margaret at CO TB Rescue and my wonderful group of Colorado FOBs, I had the knowledge to guess that his problem was his teeth. He is gorgeous and reminds me of Angel on the DB (Horse left at the side of the road). So no, I haven't gone anywhere. I am just busy as hell.

That's not to say that we (hubby and I) don't make our calls and faxes and try to educate people in the middle of "good 'ol boy" cattle country here in Colorado. My husband jumps at any chance to educate the ignorant and, at 6'7", people usually listen. We also buy and remodel houses in our "spare time" and a portion of the profits go to the Barbaro Fund or the Laminitis Fund. So now you know why I am not around much. I will never have enough of helping the horses. It is with me until I die.

OK, off the soap box.

#Margie in NM, I buy lottery tickets too. Keep hoping.

##Cheryl, dear friend, I hear you about the Laminitis Fund. I think it's time to start the birthday donations for Dr. R coming up in August. We can't let that pass, even though times are tight.

## Otherlyn, just the mention of Barbaro's name can bring me to tears. I know it will always be this way.

Sorry for the long post, but I know there are hundreds, if not thousands, of the FOBs doing their part each and every day, in their own way. We are a family and always will be. And if you ever need me, just holler. I'm here. (However, I won't be checking the posts until 10:30 tonight) :)

Take care. Debbie Anderson in CO

Cheryl Jones, Sherry and Oherlyn...

Read over the posts from last night and wanted to respond...

I have been here (TWR / ABR / DB) since the very beginning. I used to post a lot more but mostly stick to reading these days.

Here's an example of why:

Yesterday on the DB there was a thread entitled
"A Message to the Anti-Slaughter Forces" Check it out if you haven't already.

Hard not to take offense to the patronizing tone in the initial post... especially if you've spent the amount of time and energy many of us have trying to pass the anti-slaughter legislation. (I'm the AAHS NC state leader) I gave the benefit of the doubt, but at best the post was really insensitive. My responses were never addressed directly by the poster... no chance for something good to come out of the exchange.

Last week some time there was a post here about hiring a professional lobbyist... and just for the record, I consider all of us working on this project lobbyists, we're just unpaid lobbyists.
I responded to this post because I've actually looked into the cost... yes, it's extremely expensive. I got a dismissive reply. No dialogue about the reality of the situation...

I guess this is my explanation of why you see (read) less and less from the people who were here in the beginning...

Christian

Hay, FOB's!

###
I have the video stream of His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama running - he is in Phila. today giving a teaching at the Kimmel Center as I write this.

He does state that it is the people who rise up against totalitarian governments who effect change...not using violence - he is clearly advocating a peaceful approach....but advocating the peaceful approach nonetheless.

But he does feel we need to wake up...

###
From an energy healing perspective...

Some of the emotions that are surfacing right now are actually clearing out of "stuff"...its not just happening here...I just got off the phone with another healer who was melting down...I find as I release my "stuff" and replace it with Light/Love, I work with the next "wave" of people who are releasing...and I see it happening here. We're coming into a very strong Full Moon Thursday/Friday. The key is to let ourselves feel what we feel and then let the "stuff" go to Spirit.

But it is the people who come together who effect the most change...

So what else can we do to effect change? What else can we do to convince our duly elected officials that the legislation needs to be passed so we can move to the next phase of enforcement, teaching awareness, networking with rescues, working with the racetracks, etc.?

We're more ready for the next phase than we realize...

Healing, Love, Peace
ONS
Padme

Dear Otherlyn,

Please don't leave us! We are still famblee! I have been here since we were "Barbaromaniacs" as you have been. What's in a name? It's what's behind the name that matters. We came together for a very special horse, with a very special love. That love grew more and more each day. Now, many others have joined us, which is a good thing. It's the love that keeps us alive. The love of all horses, that is what keeps us growing and moving toward making positive changes in all directions. Ours is a heartfelt journey. We travel it together. Please stay with us. As our famblee tree grows, let's all keep it growing strong and healthy, how ever far the branches reach.

We need some one along side us like Jess Jackson, he is a very powerful and a good man. he sat infront of congress and spoke so well. I would love to work for someone like him.

hAY famblee.

Im sposta be werkin right now and not playin on the internet so hope i Don't get into trouble. Like many, I can't post here in daytime due to work policies.

I'm seeing some battle fatigue here. I'm reminded of those brave souls out in California and Montana right now, fighting countless wildfires.

It's normal. We started out OVER TWO YEARS AGO with the daily emotional ups and downs of Barbaro's healing--and then his death. During that time we started branching out into the fight against laminitis and slaughter, and working for safe tracks. Since then we've added countless more issues.

We've been together ALMOST TWO AND A HALF YEARS, we have been fighting multiple fires on multiple fronts, sometimes we make huge strides, sometimes we get slapped down, sometimes we seem to tread water, and sometimes we make incremental progress. It can take a toll sometimes.

But what do we keep doing? Like those brave firefighters, we keep going. We know our causes are just and our fight is a good fight. We know that if we keep fighting, we will put out those fires. And we know that along the way, we'll save some horses, cats, dogs...and when we've put the fires out, it will be a safer world overall.

I am in awe of who we are and what we've done. My god, we came together because we wanted updates on the health of a racehorse with a broken leg. We bonded and found common causes and stayed together, we're still an informal group with no set plan, leadership, etc., and we have raised almost a million dollars, saved thousands of horses, and educated who knows how many people on a whole lot of issues.

I think we all deserve some praise and some celebration for what we've done, and for what we are going to do-- and because we are all so doggone stubborn and committed. Each in our own way, each of us with our own talents and abilities. Look at what we've created, famblee, look at the difference we've made in the lives of of so many.

Love you all, and proud to be a Forever FOB.

And now back to "werk", so I can keep my job and do good things with the money!!

I thought Hawty Creek was retired? She is running at Penn National this week...

Anabolic Steroid Ban Recommended in Ky.
Email Print RSS by Ron Mitchell
Date Posted: July 16, 2008
Last Updated: July 16, 2008

A subcommittee of the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission has unanimously recommended that anabolic steroids be banned in horse racing in the state.

“The use of anabolic androgenic steroids shall be banned in horses competing in pari-mutuel racing sporting events in the Commonwealth of Kentucky,” said the position statement approved July 16 by the Subcommittee on Anabolic Steroids.

The panel is a subcommittee of the Kentucky Equine Drug Research Council and the state racing commission. The drug research council, which is charged with making drug and medication recommendations to the commission, is tentatively scheduled to meet Aug. 11, at which time it will consider the subcommittee’s recommendation.

According to the position statement, which does not provide specific threshold amounts of anabolic steroids that can be present in a post-race test before a positive is called, “either or both of the following in a post-race biological sample shall constitute an infraction:

“1) The detection of exogenous anabolic androgenic steroids and/or their metabolites
“2) The detection of endogenous anabolic steroids whereby the concentration of the substance(s), its metabolites, markers and/or any relevant ratio(s) deviates from established naturally occurring physical levels.”

Dr. Jim Smith, chairman of the subcommittee, said it is hoped that the recommendation will be used by the drug advisory council and the full commission to come up with a regulation that is consistent with any national policies forthcoming from the Racing Medication and Testing Consortium later this year.

“I think uniformity is very important,” Smith said. “We have to all of the public, not just the betting public, that the horse industry is anxious to put this anabolic steroids problem behind us and this is a good, effective step. I am proud of the steps we are taking. We are, in effect, banning it from horses in racing. This is a philosophic statement that says we want to get rid of anabolic steroids.”

Smith said the small allowable levels – trace amounts -- of steroids present in the post-race tests recognize the possible presence of the drug due to inadvertent contamination. “We don’t want to penalize an innocent person but want to get to anyone trying to get around the regulation,” Smith said.

Although the recommendation was unanimous, Smith said there was considerable discussion among subcommittee members during their meetings.

“In general principle, we have all been on the same page,” Smith said. “We have disagreements on minor things but never on major things. We just wanted to be sure we had the wording right so it would be done to protect the industry, to protect the horse and to protect the public.”

The policy includes supportive statements that articulate the subcommittee’s belief that anabolic steroids in some situations have some positive uses in horses but should not be used for horses in competition.

“What we came out with today is a philosophical statement that bridged a number of levels within the industry of practicing veterinarians, regulatory veterinarians,” said Dr. Mary Scollay, the commission’s equine medical director who served on the subcommittee.

The policy could still undergo changes as it is considered by the drug research advisory council and the commission.

“There may a number of changes,” Smith said of the additional process. “We would hope not. We like it.”
Dr. Jerry Yon, the commission who chairs the equine drug research advisory council, said he hopes the group will approve an anabolic steroid policy at the Aug. 11 meeting. However, if there substantial concerns the policy will be not pushed through but would continue to be reviewed.

cheryl, everybody- we are all going to have conflicting ideas. It isnt a good idea to criticize, but if you have an opinion about it, please give our idea. If it isnt exactly right, then maybe someone else's idea combined with that one will be the one that works. It has to work that way. GReat minds come together to accomplish things. Just dont walk away. Please. I sometimes dont post for weeks, but that doesnt mean I am not here. sometimes life just gets in the way. Jen

Hello all,
I can't add anything to the inspiring and heartfelt things people have been saying about sticking together and fighting through the "battle fatigue." All I can say is that I, for one, am still here and plugging along. I hope everyone decides to keep "plugging" too! Like many others, I don't post as much as I would like. I have a crazy schedule and many responsibilities just like so many of us. But rest assured, there is not a day that goes by that I don't do something for the horses. Even if I'm "quieter" than in the past, that will never change.

And while I'm here, below is another shameless plug for the sale of this year's edition of the "FOBs GET IT" buttons. Proceeds benefit the Barbaro Fund. It's a little keepsake of our efforts as a family.

Buttons are $3.50 each.(includes S&H) If you are interested, please send check or money order to :
Theresa Czarski
12804 Dulaney Valley Road
Glen Arm, MD 21057
Please include your mailing info and an email or phone # in case there are questions about your order.

Thanks.
Terri

ACTION ALERT - SAVE YELLOWSTONE'S WOLVES

crossposting from the DB

http://forums.delphiforums.com/alexbrown/messages?msg=26482.1

Hotlinks are in the above DB Thread post

sharing email ACTION ALERT / NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council) Action Fund

note from CJ - technical difficulties prevent me from copying the hyperlinks within the email, so I have provided the URLs where the email has a hyperlink, so there are active links below where you can click both to sign the petition and to donate. [in thise Comment here on the main page of ABR I inserted spaces within the URLs so this will post; pls close them up before using.]

PLEASE BE SURE TO SIGN THE PETITION and pass this info along to likeminded people.

106 Wolves Killed in 118 Days!

Nearly one wolf per day has been killed since the Bush Administration stripped them of their endangered species protection in March.

Tell the Interior Department to do its job and protect wolves instead of allowing them to be killed.

Dear C.,

The last time I wrote you, 37 wolves had been slaughtered since the Bush Administration stripped them of their endangered species protection in March.

Now I'm sorry to report that a terrible new milestone has been reached: 106 wolves have been killed in the past 118 days.

That's nearly one wolf killed every day. And if Wyoming, Idaho and Montana have their way, at least 900 wolves -- nearly 60 percent of the population -- could be exterminated this fall, when a massive public hunt begins.

Make no mistake: This will be the very last summer for many of Yellowstone's wolves -- unless immediate action is taken to stop the killing.

That is why I am urging you to sign our petition to the Interior Department demanding that it restore protection for wolves now.

Tourists visiting Yellowstone have been horrified to learn that the very wolves they've traveled hundreds and thousands of miles to see are being gunned down just outside the park. Hundreds of tourists a day are signing petitions to protest the slaughter.

And as I write, our partner organization, the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), is circulating those petitions in the park AND taking court action -- along with 11 other conservation groups -- to compel the Bush Administration to restore protection for the wolves.

What can you do to help the wolves of the Northern Rockies from where you live?

First, be sure to sign our petition.

http: // www. nrdconline.org/campaign/save_yellowstone_wolves?qp_source=button%5faction

Then, if you'd like to do more, you can donate

https: // secure.nrdconline.org/08/wolves_donate_072008?source=message_donate

to help the NRDC Action Fund build a national outcry against the slaughter.

Your support will help us broadcast the wolf's plight and mobilize America against the Bush Administration's heartless, wolf-killing policy.

Swift action is imperative since the wolf death count rises higher every day.

Wyoming, Montana and Idaho are planning public hunts for the region's remaining 1,400 wolves this fall -- the first in more than three decades. Once the leaves fall from the trees, wolves will be easy targets for aerial sharpshooters who can gun down entire packs in a matter of minutes.

That is why we must act quickly this summer to compel the Bush Administration to restore the wolf's desperately needed Endangered Species protection.

Your petition -- and any contribution you can give to our Call Off the Guns campaign -- will help us put an end to this wolf-killing rampage.

Sincerely,

Frances Beinecke
President
NRDC Action Fund
nrdconline.org

Aside from the June/July wonderful prizes for the MHR Hay Drive... ALL BARBARO! ,there is the Cafe MHR which offers meals to the wonderful horses. You can take the horse or horses of your choice out for a meal of either a salad featuring Timothy Hay or a fruit salad, or take him/her out for a nice dessert. Another choice is a tip to Nerdy Ned for his hard work at keeping the MHR CAFE going for the month of July.

Ro & Brady

Childrens:
Two things:
1. DIVERSITY: we need it
2. COMPREHENSION: please READ posts carefully. I am totally gobsmacked by the misapprehension of my early post. Remember: READING IS FUNDAMENTAL.
3. Yes, Renee, MargieNM: a big ole greyhound costume. No toe-grabs allowed. We're getting the sign painted this weekend: LIVERPOOL NEW YORK WELCOMES CURLIN'!!!

(He'll love marching in the Memorial Day Parade, Christmas tree lighting in Johnson Park, Regatta on the Lake, Corporate Challenge 10K race on the Parkway, candlelight cruises on the Lake etcetc.)

I Lub my FoBs
xxoo: j
COURAGE

Isn't it wonderful. Bush's legacy--among other terrible things--will be the death of the Yellowstone Gray wolf and the mustangs. It's fitting, in a sick, sick way.

Destruction of nearly everything he's put his presidential hand upon. For me, I am counting the days till he and his minions are gone, and God hlep us if McCain succeeds him into office.

Like the Dali Lama said, WE NEED TO WAKE UP!

jonna,
Bush and his idiots can get out now I would be so happy. He has just sold this country out. He has forgotten his own people here who suffer, he takes care of other countries, what the heck about us.
I want him dropped in the middle of all the wild horses so we can just sit and laugh, he is afraid of them...and he calls himself a rancher.HEHEHEHEHEHE ROFL

####
Renee
OUR PREZEEDENT NOW WITH AN 8% APPROVAL RATING, RIGHT?

"I want him dropped in the middle of all the wild horses," Yeah, Renee, but first, shoes with toe grabs, (yes I know I am now TOE GRAB OBSESSED)a big ole nose twitch and whatever other thing we can do to him to make him FEEL like a horse. A gelding at that.

I tried to watch him the other night on a press conf and I just could not do it. The point at which I turned it off was when he laughingly remarked to a reporters reiteration to an earlier question,

"Hey, Jeff, I'd be happy to answer that but hey, I'm 62 now, and I can't remember back that far."

So jovial. What a guy.

And one more thing: remember back to the Nam days--I believe many of us go back that far.

Every time, EVERY TIME a soldier's remains were flown into Dover AFB, there were dignitaries, there was a military escort, there was honor. And most importantly, there was press.

This is never done now. We'll all just cover our eyes, and it will all go away.

There is so much to be angry about. No wonder we're all half nuts with frustration.

GOOD NEWS concerning the SOS Equines Rescue of Chester!

(posting from the DB)

"I am so happy for Chester, the horse that learned so well what to do and just kept doing it... and then to get beat up at the feedlot. Chester is getting out of there right now and will be going home tonight! How great is that!!! Many thanks to SOS for giving him this second chance and SOS members and FOBs for getting it done. Yeahhhh!! Now we move on to Cruiser... I am posting more ads for him tonight."

Posted by: jonnagrey at July 16, 2008 9:33 PM
"Childrens:
Two things:
1. DIVERSITY: we need it
2. COMPREHENSION: please READ posts carefully. I am totally gobsmacked by the misapprehension of my early post. Remember: READING IS FUNDAMENTAL.
-----------------------------------------
Apparently, diversity does not include those who may have political leanings that differ from yours. That is part of the problem with this board.

So, I say, Childrens, 3 things:
1. Stop treating newcomers like they emissaries of the devil.
2. Keep partisan politics out of the discussion, otherwise you may lose a significant segment of your audience (and BTW, the approval rating of Congress under Mr Reid and Ms Pelosi is right there in the dumper with the rating of the Pres). Also, BTW, I am an independent who is currently undecided re: the coming election.
3. Unless strenuous debate is allowed here, which it is currently not, there will be no progress. You cannot restrict the discussion to sunbeams, rainbows and puppies and expect to get anywhere.

That's my 2 cents as a relative newcomer who fully expects to be flamed and/or shunned. Please prove me wrong!

### MajasMom,

Thank you. Amen.

rock on, Majasmom.
One thing, though: WE ARE DEALING WITH A POLITICAL BODY WHO REFUSES TO SEE WHAT IS RIGHT IN FRONT OF THEIR EYES.

It IS all pretty danged political.
Got a way around the Congress of the USA, I'd love to hear it....lol.

####
Renee
Did you send the orange jumpsuits out for drycleaning? I can't find them.

I am so happy for Chester. I have been so worried about him. Now on to Cruiser. Famblee this is one of the reason we FOBs are still trudging on. Yeah, we get tired and discouraged at times and frustrated but we bounce back because of Chester and all the others now and in the future. Didnt mean to go on so much here but am so happy or Chester and all the others that were saved by Barbaros famblee.

Well, thank you Jonna and Deborah for proving me wrong - so far ;-) Yes, it is all dang political, but let's not make it partisan to the point that potential allies are alienated. I really, really, would like to see more knock-down, drag-out debate here because I think that is how progress happens. I seem to remember reading that the creation of the Declaration of Independence was a real catfight. If there is no contention on an issue, then you get weak, watered down version of whatever.

Jonna, about the way around Congress, no, I don't have the magic answer. I will say that the question is probably, "What's in it for me?" How do we answer that?

Barbaromaniac and FOB reporting in here . . . .

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 take me to where angels walk. As our own Angel Dee says, "It is AFFIRMED".

Holding hands, paws, hooves with the entire Barbaro Nation . . .

always,
Lou Ann

God Bless Every One Of Them.

Every time, EVERY TIME a soldier's remains were flown into Dover AFB, there were dignitaries, there was a military escort, there was honor. And most importantly, there was press.

True:

One thing, though: WE ARE DEALING WITH A POLITICAL BODY WHO REFUSES TO SEE WHAT IS RIGHT IN FRONT OF THEIR EYES. he is dislecksic.
jonna,
The jumpsuits are going through a toughning rinse so they hold out and being fragranced like horse.

Lou Ann,
Hay my Fren great to see you.(((((LOU ANN))))))))

Renee, Why keep ragging on the Pres when there are only 4 more months until the election? As I said earlier, if we can't keep partisan politics out of this board dialogue, then we are sunk. Get over it and look to the future.

MajasMom,
I was talking to jonna.

Are you new here?

WE ARE ALL ENTITLED TO OUR OWN OPINION!

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Lou Ann So. You Are In My Heart So. You Touch My Heart So A Lot So.
For Being A So, So So Beautiful Angel On This Earth.

All, All All Angelic Beautiful Glowing Rainbows
To You........

Affirmed

I seem to remember some people saying that they have asked aides and members of Congress to come to this site to see what we are doing regarding helping horses and lobbying to get the antislaughter bills passed. We must be very careful about not being partisan. As someone has already stated, we never know who is reading this board. We cannot afford to alienate anyone. Getting HR503 and S311 passed is a bipartisan effort. Remember both presidential candidates are cosponsors of S311. I don't think it is in our best interests to bash any particular politician. Just my opinion.

Renee:

1) If you want to talk privately to Jonna, please take it off line. If you post on this board, anyone is entitled to respond, including me :-)

2) I am new as of 15 June. Does that matter to to you?

3) Yes, we are all entitled to our opinions, including those of us who have been here for only a month.

Special Horses:

Rainbows (1986)

All Rainbows, Turn To, Something Royal.

Angels (1994)

Rainbow Quest, I Will Follow, Where You Lead,
Turn To

Prayer (Ire)

Rainbow Quest, I Will Follow, Where You Lead

Donuts (1991)

Present The Colors, Something Royal, Turn To

My Role Is The Red Cross. Prayer Person.

To Inspire Another.

To Give Love.

God Is Universal.

And Turn To Leads To Barbaro.

I Hope I'm Still Needed Here.

You Are In My Heart So A Lot So Angels.

Affirmed

majasmom,
I will talk to jonna and everyone else here like I have always talked to them. You need to mind your own business. If you look at my last comments they were not mine. You owe me an apology.

Now get on with what ever you do, and please stop causing trouble.

This is a peaceful place with Good Karma and Great People. Please don't disrupt or disrespect that. We have all worked so hard to make a good place in Barbaro's name.

Do not address me unless you can be polite and kind.I hate negative energy it is useless.

You are welcome as a newbie, but don't forget there are many like myself and others who have been here for a very long time and have worked very hard. The word is RESPECT.

Renee:

Wow, is all I can say! Why are you so angry? I am minding my own business, and of course you can talk to Jonna or anyone else however you want. BUT if you talk to someone on this board, then anyone is allowed to respond so if you don't like that, then you need to correspond privately. Your post is a prime example of the point of my earlier message in which I said that one of the problems with this board is the refusal to allow debate. This is not your board. If Alex or one of the other moderators would like to reprimand me OK, but it is not up to you to tell me what I can and cannot say. By the way, I do not think I was impolite to you, although I believe I was quite direct.

It sure looks like (unfortunatley) due to Eight Bells horrid death and Big Brown's steroid use that things are getting looked into and cleaned out. Hopefully this will make the racing industry a better place and they can rise above where they have been. Sometime it only takes a push.

jonna,
The cleaners called the orange jumpsuits are all set.

Dee,
Special Angel, it is so good to see you, (((((Dee)))) in a graden of sweet clover.

re the Curlin poll:

Lenny Hall sent me a link to the survey, encouraging me to vote, and here's what I replied:

I already did. Caution to the wind - I said (as if I were Mr. J and considering what I've read about his motives/intentions) - turf. That's because unless Curlin makes it well on turf as well as dirt, he will never be on a par with Barbaro. If he does, then I think he will have proven what Mr. J said he wanted to prove, a winner on either surface and many distances, holding up well, well after age 3, running sound - and NO LONGER ON STEROIDS. IMO and I believe he actually said this, in essence - J wants to remove the proverbial "asterisk" by Curlin's name bc of the admitted prior [albeit legal] steroid use. And he wants to show how sturdy and sound and long-lasting Curlin is. Poster child for TBs. . . For those combined reasons if I were Mr J I would go ahead with the turf plans (assuming of course Curlin doesn't seem to mind - they do train on turf if they're gonna be running on it, don't they? Will Curlin be training on turf now??? Or am I dreaming? Or are those not necessarily mutually exclusive, haha!)

Come to think of it I'm gonna post this on the appropriate DB thread just for fun.

Thanks for bringing it back to mind.

ttyl - love - [end of email]

Alex or anyone - will Curlin be training on turf?

Bravo CJ., well said with eloquece as always. You go girl.

At the Celebration last weekend, one thing that really struck me, as it did in Wash D.C., was how many people I met who are very involved in FOB causes, but who NEVER have posted here. But they are aware of this site, read, and participate in all kinds of ways, whether through this informal community, or through other entities, locally, or in a combination of ways.

The person who went with me to the Celebration is one example. We met because of this site. She hardly ever makes a post, but has probably made more calls to senators and reps than I have. She donates to causes from this board, and was thrilled to meet likeminded people from all over in Delaware. She simply does not have as much time as she would like to post and follow threads, but is as much an FOB as anyone I can name. And she definitely knows it is because of Barbaro that she became involved in new causes at a new level.

Many others post rarely, due to all kinds of factors...perhaps just varied and time consuming responsibilities, or the lack of thinking they have anything really pertinent to say, or sadly, sometimes the "tone" or topics of the comments. I found it amazing to hear stories from people about what they are doing behind the scenes, every day - for rescues, anti-slaughter, charities, racing, tracks, horses, and people - that is totally unknown to this board.

This community is wider and deeper than any of us know. To me it seems appropriate that many have found their own different paths, even if those paths don't intersect all the time. But the paths have a journey and destination in common. Barbaro's legacy has gone far beyond what he might have (I would say WOULD have) further accomplished as a racehorse. I am grateful for that. I am grateful for every person who is engaged in worthy causes that came to our attention because of Barbaro.

I met so many dedicated people and unsung heroes this weekend. And I know it was a minor number compared to all who have come to this site and are contributing in multiple ways. Believe in miracles. The reach that Barbaro's life has had is one of them.

########## just catching up and found what was Posted by jonnagrey at July 16, 2008 5:17 PM and just have to add, matter of fact in my solo act I do have bells around an ankle! (actually a set of sleighbells from a tack shop, that I fasten around my ankle with an elastic hairtie) Jonna - how did you know!?

Gloria in IL,
Your post is moving. The FOB's are very much alive, they work hard from all aspects. Some cannot post due to jobs that don't allow it or for some other reasons, even the death of our beloved champion. When the call goes out as to where they are, it is so incredible how they show up.

We are being heard we are known, we have been written about in the news in books,in articles. it is good and the FOB's are the greatest people in the world. It has been a long hard road, we always have our marching boots on that Mrs. Jackson asked us to wear. And grief is the price you pay for love.

Barbaro, Barbaro his Legacy will go on. He is loved and WE Believe! We are the FOB's.

This community is wider and deeper than any of us know. (Quoted from Gloria's post above)

Total agreement on this. There are many, many here. Just because someone doesn't post here; doesn't mean that they aren't here reading, processing and acting (and I mean acting in whatever way is appropriate for that individual).

Thank you for your comments, Gloria in IL.

Samantha
FOB

CJ,
I agree with jonna whole hearted.

Bravo CJ you do rock.

re the "toe grabs" issue as elucidated in what was posted by Renee Antaya at July 16, 2008 6:55 PM

######### from my anecdotage - as an all-season trailrider in the midwest, having to deal with snow and ice, would use "boreums" [a form of toe grab, I believe] which were like little cleats screwed into holes in the shoes there for that purpose. The vet forbade the use of these as the horses grew older, and instead had the farrier trim the fronts with what they call a "rolled toe" which is exactly the opposite of toe grabs. (The rolled toe would be for all weather, btw.) But point being we were advised by vets (and farriers) that boreums were very hard on the tendons etc in the front legs. And I think they are functionally equivalent to toe grabs - anyone have comparable horsey experiences?

What are the going prices of hay right now? I just read an article saying they will be higher than last year. I hope not.

It was just reported on the news that paychecks have gone down 8% since 1984. Everything is going up but.....$$$$$ ends cannot meet. UGH It is terrible.I would make sure Cheyenne and the horses eat before me.

CJ with ankle sleigh bells. You are an amazing woman.

ANGEL DEE, FOB FOREVER - Yes, YOU are very much needed here!!
It is AFFIRMED!!

Holding hands, paws, hooves with the entire Barbaro Nation.
Peace be upon us. . . .

always,
Lou Ann

Renee, what I've seen posted here, hay is $4 - $20 a bale. It looks to be cheapest in the mid section of the country.

Also, my paycheck went down 100% on April 6th. :-)