options for watching the judiciary committee: anyone got dem?

Hearing is at 9:30AM

##
Jonna it is the 5th on down.

5th "one" down. need more coffee!

Morning skritches to the BBH, Sir JH, Gorgeous George, Belle, KeyKey and the rest of the stellar gang of Heavenly Equines. Bet they're glued to the Simul-Cloud this morning!

MORNING POST/SHELLEYA, DEBRA, WI/AAHS:

STRATEGY FOR THURSDAY JULY 31

A huge thanks to the many that came out in force today making thousands of phone calls, sending faxes, emails and letters. It is our understanding that phones were ringing off the hook. We did get a lot of positive feedback and it looks like we will be picking up several co-sponsors!

Reports are that a number of those calling the committee got busy signals and were told they were getting lots of calls!!

The Judiciary Committee hearing is scheduled for 9:30AM on Thursday. Live video feed to the proceedings. http://judiciary.house.gov/hearings/calendar.html

scroll down to here - there is a hotlink to watch
By Direction of the Chairman
07/31/2008
Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security
9:30 A.M. in 2141 Rayburn House Office Building
Hearing on: H.R. 6598, the ""Prevention of Equine Cruelty Act of 2008" and H.R. 6597, the "Animal Cruelty Statistics Act of 2008"

Until after the hearing tomorrow, our strategy will continue to be to gain co-sponsors for HR6598. As soon as we get further directions, we will immediately pass them along.

May we get the outcome that we seek tomorrow. This could be a HUGE step forward for our horses.

We are BARBARO’S VOICE…..and today it was heard!!!!

Thanks,
Shelley and Deb

Posted by: ShelleyA at July 30, 2008 10:50 PM

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

####Hopefully something will come out of the judiciary meeting today, praying it will.

####((((Mirabel & Hans)))))prayers to you both for the dr's meeting today.

Judy

Good Thursday morning everyone

Maribel - please know that I am praying for Hans and of course for you.

I can't watch the hearings - will be at work, but hopefully I can check in here from time to time to get an update. Let today be the day we move forward with the much needed legislation.

Janice
A forever FOB

Edgar Gift Basket

The FOB's ROCK!!!

((((Hans and Maribel))))

Maybe at 9:30....we all should say a silent prayer...and praying that we are heard...SAVE OUR HORSES....SAVE BARBARO'S BROTHERS AND SISTERS.

Good Morning Barbaro

May today be brighter than ever....may today be the answer to our prayers and hard work....we love you and miss you so much.

Good Morning Famblee/Fans of Barbaro

Thank you for all you do...thank you for being a strong family...a unity of love and care.

Please call, fax, email...

Remember and help our rescues...they need us...

Our Fallen Angels, the ones suffering human or animal, our wildlife, and our loving family, always.

Have a wonderful day.

####
Good morning Alex.
Good morning Tim and Fair Hill.

Our precious Fallen Angels...we are here.

Joe at TB Friends

Hello everyone,

Anxious for the results of the hearing.

Prayers to Hans, Kaiser, Denny, Nala, Over Enough and all in need of our prayers today.

Blessed and good day to all.

I know we are all busy, but please - if you light candles, light some candles of rememberance for Barbaro. He brought so many of us to this "place" - and he is in 3rd on the candle site.

http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=barba

Love, Light and Protection for All of The Horses

Barbaro candles

Yes let say a prayer for HR 6598 and 6597 now.

I'm getting an In Recess title, right? Firefox won't open it, had to go over to IE....grrrrr.

Here comes the esploding hed, Cheryl.

Hello Barbaro Famblee:

I am trying to open up the video to watch the hearing today but am not able to.....anyone with "computer knowledge" as to what I need to do. All I get is a box that says "Application not Found"?

Jeanette
FOB in New Mexico

OK anybody got audio??? grrrr. even at 1X size, it's all pixelated/

Have picture, But no audio!

Good Morning

Prayers for our horses. Let's hope Judiciary can get er done. If anybody can watch please give us play by play.

Kudos to our FOB famblee. I've heard through my CA group that our Bill received many calls yesterday.

god i just lost the stream at 30 minutes

HOLY SPIRIT PLEASE TOUCH THEIR HEARTS!

don't let these horses be tortured to death anymore!

Dear Lord, plese help them to make the right decision. Some may be 'lost'. Please guide their way.

N0 video/no audio.

You folks are going to have to tell us what IS GOING ON!

Nothing here, either. Maybe someone will keep us updated.

Lord God, open the hearts of the men and women at this hearing - all men and women in legislative groups across this country. Let them hear and feel the spirit of the horse. Help them to understand how important it is to protect our horses - for in doing so we protect that place in ourselves that represents freedom and honor. Show them the way Lord, and let them act from the place You have shown - in integrity.

Love, Light and Protection for All of Our Horses

Just had to share this one!

"87% of Americans and 100% of horses polled this last week support HR 6598!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Charise DeMao

you have to go up to the top menu and under PLAY, click on CONTINUOUS....that's will keep it from cutting out at 30 minutes...

This is giving me a vewwwwwy bad hed esplosun.

Go Wayne, Go and Conyers too...and whats her face..

$2000 to euthanize a horse???

god give us strength and hold the welfare of our horses inyour hands...

I'm running this on Real Player, BTW....Barb

It is over, what do you think?

###
It is over?????????
you mean the judiciary hearing is through??

OMG a week/ we have to wait a week....for what then? more debate, more testimony, more sucking up by various Vet asssociations////

Childrens: I may be dead in a week...I hope we will have a furious calling strategy in place by tonight.

I have to fall down now...

WE WILL DO THIS.

yes/it's over. they're on to Paycheck equity HR whatever it it Not Horses......

Yep! judiciary hearing is through. More next week.

CJ? Any words of wisdom? is it wishful thinking to feel that it went pretty well for us? Oy.

Equal Pay for Both Sexes: HAHA

I NEED MY JOE:
****************************************************
Very Late (or at least late for me) Wednesday Night, July 30th... Delicious pesto pasta with tiny baby shrimp. Oh wait, who cares about our supper? I am coming to you after final barn check on a cool summer night. There will be no morning journal for Thursday morning.

I must rise before the roosters rise, and feed breakfast to 105 confused horses who will wonder why is the old man up so early? And then I must go help horses who have new homes.

On Sunday adoptions for 2008 hit an even 300. By tonight (Wednesday) adoptions now stand at 313. From our ranch we said goodbye to Bustopher Jones, who goes to live with Aubrey and her family in a town called Colfax. We also said goodbye to Peyton Place, an older mare who has lived with us for only 4 days. We hardly got to know her. Peyton Place will be best friends with a lonely standardbred gelding in Petaluma. An arranged marriage. A big Thank You to Stephanie Diaz for providing transportation.

And on this Wednesday (except you are reading on Thursday) we found homes for 11 horses from various ranch closings.

Still 8 phone messages to answer, and this takes place tomorrow. Sorry, there was just no time to call you back. Wednesday was bananas. Hopefully from those 8 phone messages there are more homes for horses.

I must tell you, from a ranch foreclosure I got to meet the most incredible gelding. 16.3 hands, a thoroughbred, and they say his sire is Put It Back. I wanted so bad to Put It Back and hide him for myself. In the arena his feet never touched the ground. A floater, and a hunk. All sight unseen delivered horses are done at random. Next delivery, grab a horse, load and go. The Put It Back gelding went to a family who has adopted from us in the past. He gets to live with other thoroughbreds, and there are two sisters who suddenly find themselves with the jumper of their dreams. Put It Back. The sisters have already named him Pib.

Today (Wednesday) Tbfriends purchased three horses from a ranch foreclosure. We also bought two geldings from a feed lot in Vallejo. And now it is time for some sleep. I will be back Friday morning to bring you more news from a 30 acre rescue ranch in Woodland, California. A Best Buy is coming to Woodland. A Red Robin is coming to Woodland. Super Target had their grand opening last week. Chevron Station has a new bathroom. Also at Chevron you can buy a San Francisco newspaper. There are 9 different sodas from the soda fountain, and if you add a little of each soda to your cup it kind of tastes like cold spinach. Gasoline has dropped 30 cents a gallon in the last two weeks.

Earth, Wind & Fire on the oldies station.

Joe

#####
We need to see what is going on behind the scenes...
Peeples....we have to have faith....because we know this is the right thing to do....save Barbaro's brothers and sisters.

and....we may have to come to push to shove...and let Congress know we are not going to take a no....

After all....they work for us....we the people.

((((((((((((((((((joan & all))))))))))))))))))))))))

Hay Fambleeee

can that be it for the day?

was checking some email and can't figure out what happened?

Jonna, that sound you heard was my hed esplodin. we had simulsposhuns

guess I was expecting fireworks

Great stories on Nicanor and LavaMan. Thanks, Alex

WOW! (having watched hearing)

The most amazing thing was that the therapeutic value of horses for children came out through the "bad guy" - hahaha! Exposing a therapy program that is financially forced to sell the therapy horses for slaughter when they were no longer useful - OMG - what does THAT say about what's wrong with this scenario?

IMO the VETS have a duty to do some "charity work" -

That being said -

I am in love with Dr. Dodman, and impressed with everyone who spoke on "our" side.

STAY TUNED - but just one thing -

I want to thank all responsible for my/our being able to attend as a fly on the wall in that mighty Congressional Hall - (dig the physical set-up, don't you?)

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)

PS - I am enthusiastically optimistic.

PRAISE THE LORD AND PASS THE CARROTS! (Thank you, Lillian Petroff, who hasn't responded to my last few emails and I remain concerned . . .)

MORE THOUGHTS re the hearing -

NOBODY pointed out that the "property rights" argument is dead wrong; somebody needs to remind 'em they can't do whatever they want with their car . . .

They will be accepting further evidence for the next WEEK. I have not discussed this with anyone, but before anybody tells me not to, I want to respectfully suggest this:

Everybody with verifiable story of HORSE WAS NOT UNWANTED yet on way to killer - like the lame chestnut from NJ who was (I'm tearing up again on typing this one) recognized by a friend of his former owner who saw his pic on ABR Forum and now reunited . . . like one in particular from I think it was the Sugarcreek save, whose owners were alerted to her situation and reclaimed her - again, via this Board [gosh Alex - without this Board those two, to name a few, would not be reunited with their owners - boy, you've more than earned your wings, haha!] . . . esp stories where original owners sold/donated with stipulation to be notified if horse was ever to be disposed of - THAT IS THE EVIDENCE TO DEBUNK A LARGE PART OF THE MYTH OF THE UNWANTED HORSE.

Get that together and get it to AWI and HSUS, ASAP. That's straight from the Horse's Mother's Mouth, haha - just IMO.

RUN WITH IT - RUN LIKE THE WIND.

I don't know what to think, would like to see/hear it again. Anyway/where we could do that?
At one point it went off and I had to reload, so I missed some!

Yep, mopping up the grey matter even as we speak....

yep: we get to gnash our teeth for ANOTHER WEEK. WHILE MORE HORSES DIE.

I am going to give my puter a little rest. And me. And Loretta, Teddy, Erik, Jessie, Steffie, Shiloh, Jet, Tuck, Tiny Dancer, Boxer and Wyatt; Cotton and Heart. Sigh. We are wiped out.

The general consensus among my family is that I am barking mad, and they'd like to lock me up for a while, dump all my dogs, destroy my puter, try to sell my little old old old house and make me live in some tract or apartment.

So depressing...

Subject: Victoria Goes to Washington... For The Horses

Good Morning All,

When we got the news we felt it was best not to give the opposing side a "heads up." Please keep everyone fighting for the horses in your prayers. You are more than welcome to crosspost this release.

Victoria McCullough Goes to Washington � For the Horses!!!

July 31, 2008 Wellington, Florida Three days ago we were all asked to write letters to be read at the Judicial committee hearing for the new bill introduced by Representative John Conyers Jr., known as H.R. 6598, the Conyers - Burton Prevention of Equine Cruelty Act of 2008 (the bill which now replaces the AHSPA - HR 503 & S. 311.) Rescues and individuals were asked to write letter to the HSUS to tell � the story.� Both Victoria and myself wrote the letters. Later that evening we sat at the barn with the horses and discussed the matter. We both agreed, IT IS NOT ENOUGH! Americans who are opposed to the cruelty of animals and the horrendous treatment the horses that go to slaughter have to endure have spent YEARS making phone calls, writing letters, sending emails and faxing� BUT HORSES ARE STILL BEING SLAUGHTERED. Something needs to change; the voice of the people for the horses needs to be heard. First hand accountings of what is happening needs to be told, answers to the pro-slaughter propaganda need to be comprehended and the people responsible for these heinous acts need to be exposed.

�It Can�t Be Done� is not a phrase you will hear from Victoria McCullough and it is not a phrase that is accepted, although it was what we were told when asked for an invitation to the Judicial hearing. Then again, it is what we were told when we said that we were going to go save all the horses from going to slaughter that day in May at the Sugarcreek Kill auction. On July 30th Victoria started making phone calls in a vehement effort to be granted a chance to speak to the committee on behalf of the horses. Thanks to Joseph Abruzzo not only was Victoria McCullough granted an invitation to the meeting but also a meeting with Rep. John Conyers. The voice of the horses will be heard.

In June, Victoria McCullough of the Davis McCullough Foundation through her organization �The Triumph Project� introduced Horse Slaughter and the inhumanity of it at the Global Champions Tours with a moving presentation. Since then it has been not only accepted but also embraced by this group of top show riders and horse enthusiasts. You may view it on their website at www.globalchampionstour.com. In a matter of months, McCullough has made this a worldwide issue and the overwhelming response confirms that this act is a worldwide concern, which will not be tolerated. Do we, as Americans want to show the world this is allowed and accepted by us? The majority if horsemeat for human consumption is coming from the United States�. The American Horse.

On May 23rd, Pure Thoughts Inc. and the Triumph Project aligned efforts to save the horses that were intended to go to kill at the Sugarcreek Auction. This effort has been a successful effort. The mission was not only for the sake of the horses that day; it was done to show that it could be accomplished successfully. Since that day these horses have not only been given excellent care and a second chance at life but many of them have been adopted even before the �official� adoption has started. These are not �unwanted� horses. The only reason many of the horses go to killbuyers is because they sometimes have more money to outbid the public and the owners who send them to auction do not have to worry about properly placing their horse or taking care of them. They know if they send their horse to a kill auction on Friday, on Monday they will have a check for some amount. It is nothing but irresponsible ownership and that can no longer be tolerated. It is time for Americans to show the rest of the world we do not have a �throw away society.� An end to this cruel treatment must stop. Horse slaughter, from the time the horses are at the kill auctions to the moment their spine is severed is cruel and abusive treatment. Laws that already exist in our country are broken. No one is enforcing them. Our agencies are turning a blind eye to this act. It is time for an end.

The Triumph Project - The Davis McCullough Foundation founded the Triumph Project as an awareness campaign to enlighten the world through unified efforts, both in the United States as well as abroad, of the betrayal of our equine ally. Throughout history, horses have served us by escorting us to battle, tilling our fields, drawing our carriages, and enriching our lives as our companions and friends.

Pure Thoughts Inc. - is an all-volunteer 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to saving the lives of horses, yearlings and foals that were intended to go to slaughter for human consumption. These horses would have been brutally tortured and slaughtered. Pure Thoughts Inc. Horse & Foal Rescue also rescues horses from starvation, abuse and neglect, any horse in need. To date, over 1150 innocent equines have been saved and we will continue to fight for the horses. We Text Box: Triumph at the kill auction. Humane euthanized rather than endure the torture of slaughter. �The Triumph Project� is named in his honor. cannot do this alone...we need your help!! Please help us and others save these beautiful animals and please remember in your thoughts the ones we were unable to reach.

Join us on this mission to save the horses. To contribute you may go to the website www.PTHR.org or you may send a donation to Pure Thoughts Inc. 19181 Capet Creek Ct., Loxahatchee, FL 33470. You may also contact Jennifer at 561-254-0415

Jennifer Swanson
Pure Thoughts Inc.
Horse & Foal Rescue
www.PTHR.org
19181 Capet Creek
Loxahatchee, FL 33470

Saving the life of a horse may not change the world...........
........but it will change that horse's world.

$2,000 to euthanize a horse? I might call our local large animal vet and see what he charges just for curosity.

######
$2,000...to euthanize? I do not think so....where is the vet's obligation and oath...if an animal or horse is suffering....they should do the right thing...not expecting a large sum of money....

how much does it cost to fill up a syringe to administer a shot?

One thing I can say about the FOBS...we are not quitters, and we certainly are not dumb.

####
Prayers to Dr. Sweeney and family for the loss of her mother.

My cost for euthanasia and disposal is usually around $400.00. Out here (AZ) disposal is charged by the mileage, and my costs have varied, depending where I am in the valley at the time. (Not all horses die at home.)

$2,000.00 sounds ridiculous!

$2,000.00 is ridiculous!

#####
This is a poor excuse...this amount...looking for a way out? A beautiful horse gives devotion and his best....and to some owners...not good enough...instead of a dignity death...some of them have to get that mighty last dollar...called horse slaughter.

BURNS ME UP....ABSOLUTLY BURNS ME UP.

It's not $2000.00 here. $150-$200 for home visit euthanasia. And there are options aplenty for removal/disposal. These options are available almost anywhere. You can visit Dr. Dodman's site for further advise and help.

UPDATE ON HANS

KEEP PRAYING...

Everything that is wrong is on the left side!! Still major inflamation on the left chest wall in the surgical site and the anti-inflamatory drugs have not been able to combat that.He was put on Celebrex yesterday so it is too early to tell if that will work or not??

Left breast has lump in it and in is extremely painful...left lymph nodes ubder the arm are now inflamed and inflamation is spreading to the right lymph nodes!!Prostate is inflamed and PSA is at 5.3 the high end of normal!!

The newest development ....a small dark spot has shown up on the xrays at the base of the left lung. IT just never STOPS !!! WHEN is ENOUGH ENOUGH??????

GOD please take control of this scenario.....I don't think he can take much more and neither can I!!

Praying for our dear horses today too...MaryS bless her kind and loving heart posted a lovely prayer for them.Sherman no doubt has been a source of comfort and strength??!!! Such a beautiful horse...Sherman is a "fairytale horse".He looks just like he stepped out of a childrens fairytale book!!!

HUGS and love must go get Auntie from hair appointment she probably thinks I've abandoned her!!!

Sorry for ALL the spelling errors....

((((((Maribel))))))
(((((((Hans)))))))

Unofficial Report of Hearing on DB.

Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism and Homeland Security (under Judiciary Committee)

Rep Bobby Scott of VA, Subcommittee Chair

Hearing on HR6598 and HR6597

July 31, 2008, Rayburn Building

I can�t confirm subcommittee members present as the visual quality of the broadcast was poor and did not show all subcommittee members, camera only focused on those who spoke.

Chairman Scott opened the hearing, allowed Minority Ranking member Gohmert TX to address opposition to both bills.

Gohmert noted that AQHA and AWC oppose HR 6598, and entered letters to the record.

�transport is legal and regulated by USDA�

Concern: �requirement of intent�

We have two sides who paint completely different pictures.

Gohmert opposes HR6597, says it may not get us the info sought in regard to incidents.

Conyers spoke briefly and added his statement to the record, yielded his time.

Attendees/panel:

Liz Ross, AWI

Charles Stenholm, Sr policy advisor, Olsen law firm (ie lobbyist)

John Boyd, NBFA founder

Douglas Corey, DVM, AAEP immediate past pres.

Nicholas Dodman, Tufts, AVMA member, VEW founder

Wayne Pacelle, HSUS

Ross:

Spoke of horses slaughtered, unwanted horse claims.

Per USDA, 92% of horses in slaughter process are in good condition, not old or undesirable. Title 18 applies here as slaughter is inhumane and abusive.

Stenholm:

Noted that he represents livestock markets.

�All animals should be treated humanely�, humane treatment is debatable. It�s what happens. There will be and are unintended consequences. My clients can�t sell horses: there will be no buyers if this passes.

- unfunded mandate: additional burdens on state and federal resources

- not enough money to take care of all the unwanted horses

- this would superimpose your will on owners� who want to have them slaughtered. If owners accept slaughter for their horses, you would prevent that right.

- this is private property rights.

- zoo�s need this.

Boyd:

We don�t eat horses. First learned of horse slaughter from the Ma7 2008 Bryant Gumbel HBO piece. Neither he nor any of his board of directors were aware of slaughter before this. This is an issue of right and wrong. It�s an issue of greed, slaughter is wrong. The �unwanted theory� is not the issue, the issue is the money, the profit.

When we became aware of slaughter, we reached out: our membership will place horses.

Heat, hay costs are all factors, have been.

We take care of our livestock, we don�t eat horses.

Corey:

Horses are being severely impacted, the unwanted horses are listed in the media (mentioned dates of articles: Time mag, etc)

The harsh reality is that they can�t afford the care.

Per 2006 USDA: 102K processed in US, these unwanted horses.

We oppose because long term care and funding for horses affected is absent.

30k horses = $55M/yr for care.

Can the federal govt afford that?

Horse processing . . . the industry must work together: educate or inform owners.

75% of AAEP members voted to say horse processing should remain an option.

Dodman:

Noted his slaughter plant experience and as an anesthesia/consciousness expert.

Countered the unwanted horse claims by Corey, and his other claims.

Minus out the stolen horses, those bought under false pretenses.

This is a predatory, brutal industry.

Revenues go abroad, not the US.

Not humane, not anesthesia. It�s Auschwitz for horses. He described transport and kill box conditions he saw in Canada.

Polls and AVMA are wrong: they�re given limited data and come to wrong conclusion.

There is no data on horse increases without slaughter.

Pacelle:

As a society, we�re decent and responsible to animals, banned dog fighting.

Slaughter is animals opportunistically collected up for profit.

They concoct a defense: we�re doing them a favor by killing them.

Follow state cruelty statutes. Be humane to the less powerful. Law says that cruelty to animals is wrong.

He entered rescue info into the record.

Questions to panel:

Boyd responds to property rights per Stenholm �they belong to me�.

Boyd: Well, slaves were property. It�s wrong to slaughter. We can provide good homes with rescues. USDA doesn�t know the number of unwanted horses.

Ross responds to cost to localities:

Ross: Sees no post-bill economic impact. Slaughter is an economic drain, gave example of Paula Bacon and Kaufman, TX and the plant�s negative impact on their municipal sewer system, huge expense.

Stenholm was asked to address drug residues in meat.

Stenholm: All US meat went to Europe. Assumes that that was all in line with regs.

Scott: how do we know that the meat meets standards?

Stenholm: how could we?

Livestock markets will not be able to sell horses.

Boyd: I disagree that horses won�t be able to sell. No black farmer raises horses for human consumption.

Stenholm: US ate horses prior to WWII.

Economic necessity . . . wild horses, burros require funding. This would be imposing your will on an owner of the property.

Subcommittee member:

Are existing sanctuaries ready to absorb?

Ross: Slaughter of horses is reflective of market demand, not of the number of �unwanted� horses. Facts of the stated reports don�t check out.

Boyd: we can�t regulate other countries. We should be looking at organizations: Farm Bureau, for example, to partner. Deal with the population here.

Conyers: how to bring Rep Gohmert to this?

Pacelle: This is about responsibility. There has been no defense of the commerce of horse slaughter, but responsibility is the issue. Be responsible.

Dodman: �They� adjust the facts to suit them. AVMA rejected his article. The AVMA website�s Q&A is distorting facts. It is abuse and neglect, they should say so.

Corey: It can be documented, it is real.

Gohmert: Agreed that horses are not raised for consumption. What is acceptable euthanasia? Accurate statistics would be desirable. Noted a constituent and their special needs children with equine program, the benefits. Can�t afford to put down their horses. What�s the best way?

Dodman: the best way is chemical euthanasia.

Gohmert: what about the CBG for euthanasia (via AVMA)?

Dodman: CBG is viable with a skilled operator and a horse with low blood pressure and controlled environment, but not at a slaughter plant. That�s a totally different situation: noise, activity, small target.

Corey: AVMA panel /00 or /02: barbiturates, gunshot or CBG ok.

Pacelle: Added factors: long distance transport, then additional suffering.

Noted that there are 34 million cattle on US farms and approx 1-2 million dead stock. This is regularly handled on farms. Large body disposal is doable.

Hearing ended 10:59 am.

Record remains open for additional materials (One week, I believe.)

###Maribel

Sherman is a source of comfort and strength - and he is the horse in my fairytale! I really need to update his thread - so much going on.....

I'm not here very often - Will you email me please? I have several addresses for you, and can't locate one of them - sorry.

Love, Light and Protection for All of Our Horses

## Prayers and a zillion hugs go out to you both today ............. from all of us .......
the "person" and her "fur" children ........

((((((((((Maribel and Hans))))))))))

Sherry - Chico and Amigo, Warpaint and Dakota
from sizzling Arizona

Sending All, All All My Love.........Prayers....
....Rainbows........To Angel Maribel And Angel
Hans.........

God's Angelic Glowing Rainbows........

All, All, All Angelic Beautiful Glowing Rainbows
To You And Angel Hans.........

Affirmed

July 31 Cherokee Devotional - sharing email from Harriette Brillianthawk]

To be truly beautiful, a precious stone must be cut precisely, polished expertly, and set in the right mounting. It was no less worthy in its original state, but its hidden beauty was where we could not see it.

People are precious stones as well. They may be covered by a rough exterior, but we sense the glow--even before they are polished and shaped.

With so much emphasis on how we look, there is always work to do, and it isn't all on the outside. Pettiness is the ugly bubble in an otherwise lovely diamond. Bitterness hides sparkle--but careful handling brings out the beautiful facets--and love makes it a treasure.

We saw the Great Spirit's work in almost everything: sun, moon, trees, wind, and mountains.

Walking Buffalo
Tatanga Mani
Stoney

### Barb AZ--Thank you so much for the synopsis of the hearing today.

I'm glad to see they brought up the drug residue issue. Stenholm "ASSUMES" the meat met regulations!?! Get real! They KNOW we were sending tainted meat with known carcinogens to overseas markets from US slaughter plants. Considering the BSE issue in cattle, I can't believe the USDA turned a blind eye to that fact!

The "property rights" issue again comes up:

- this would superimpose your will on owners� who want to have them slaughtered. If owners accept slaughter for their horses, you would prevent that right.

- this is private property rights.

As someone who is working diligently to prevent breed-specific legislation (BSL)--namely a pit bull ban--from being enacted in Omaha, the "property rights" issue that is continually thrown up by the pro-slaughter gang interests me. Dog owners' "property rights" are violated all the time in cities with breed bans--if you own a pit bull or other banned breed, you HAVE no property rights--the dog can be seized and euthanized. Interesting that the same lawmakers who are signing BSL into law aren't concerned in the least about the property rights of dog owners, but apparently horse owners who would sell their horses to slaughter are quite worthy of having THEIR "property rights" protected.

Dawn, I know. We have fought the property rights issue with many of those who won't cosponsor. As CJ says, you can't do a lot of things with your car when you are done with it. Sometimes you have to PAY somebody to haul it off. It's a good argument.

Horse slaughter is inhumane...

Ownership rights MUST end when there is animal abuse??? Animal cruelty is against the law in the US I presume?? Why don't we use that argument??? I defy anyone who watches that slaughter video of HSUS to tell me that this NOT ANIMAL CRUELTY!!!!!!

An owner who would subject his horse to this treatment is ABUSIVE!!! HAS NO RIGHTS!!! OWNERSHIP or OTHERWISE!!!!!

My opinion ....and THAT FELT VERY GOOD!!!!!

Sending All, All All My Love........Prayers.....
...Rainbows.......To Our Angel Horses........
Barbaro's Famblee Of So, So So Beautiful Angels On This Earth..........

The Wings Of Prayer.........
The Wings Of Love.........

In Halos..........
Glowing...........

Affirmed

I called one of the top equine vets in West Texas. He charges $200.00 to euthanize a horse. Would be an extra $50.00 to have the county come pick the body up. So $250.00 tops. I was just curious. $2,000 to put a horse down is just nuts. Also, highway robbery.

Well said Maribel! I agree with you!!

Prayers to Hans are on the way, too.

margie, both of the places we called seem to be about the same price. Whre was it they wanted 2,000??? ###Races are at Ruidoso Downs saturday. Is Peppers Pride running? ###While the fat cats in washington are dragging their heels hundreds of horses are dying a horrible death. It is really frustrating. As to the idiots that said they have not witnessed slaughter in Mexico or Canada they need to watch a video. ###Oh yeah, when I talked to the vet about the price of putting a horse down I also told him of the killer buyers and the violent deaths at the slaughter houses. He was not aware of how they are killed.

((((((((((Hans and Maribel))))))))))))))

######
Amen...idiots in Washington....
how can they make a decision on horse slaughter?
they cannot make a decision about off shore drilling?
Nancy...cannot make up her mind about her new plane?
Sen. Craig...cannot stay out of the bathroom...lol

and we EXPECT THIS CONGRESS TO MAKE THE RIGHT DECISION....

there are many on here...I wish would run for office...i guarantee you would have my vote....

Please go here to post a story of a duped/betrayed former owner whose horse went (or almost went) to slaughter; and to post thoughts/ideas how to help get HR 6598 passed (in addition to official marching orders).

http://forums.delphiforums.com/alexbrown/messages?msg=27017.1

(pls see what I posted here at July 31, 2008 4:24 PM; that post also appears at the above DB thread.)

I did some research last year about euthanasia costs... the national average was $200.00.

As far as disposal, (assuming you can't bury on site) there are over 200 renderers in North America. Renderers pick up and recycle remains.

I also found a table from the NRA website National Renderers Association Prices stating the cost of rendering a 500lb cow was $10 per head. Horses weren't listed specifically but I'm figuring it's comparable.

That $2000 figure is ridiculous and (deliberately ) misleading.

Maribel and Hans you are in my thoughts and prayers.

As election day nears, many races in both the house and senate are very close. Predictions are there will be many incumbents who will lose their position.
We need to research the opposing candidates in every state and find out if they are for or against horse slaughter. In Minnesota, Al Franken (yes, that Al Franken) is opposing Senator Norm Coleman. I will find out Franken's position. If the people in his office don't know I will request a meeting with Franken to find out where he stands on the issue. If he's not up to speed on it, he will be after the meeting. I will inform him and his office of the effort of the American people to end horse slaughter, that the vast majority of American's want it stopped yesterday and that there is frustration among the masses that this congress does not listen to the people on this issue.
Senator Coleman is with us on this issue. I have worked in his campaign office as I support him for a lot of reasons. But......if he should not get re-elected.......well, I'm not going to wait to approach Franken after he's elected. Work starts now.
This strategy is not to be construed as giving up on this congress for passing the bills. We still have a chance....there is time and we have to keep pounding away.
But pursuing possible replacements now builds a foundation for the next congress if that's what we must do!
If you pursue this please pass on the information you collect to your team leaders and let's compile a list and start letting these people know we are damn serious.
Daryl

joan roya, right on about the deadbeats in Washington. I dont know about you but I am getting tired of plosis (sp?) decision on her 2 or 3 million plane. As far as I am concerned most of congress should be strapped on the wing of a plane and sent to siberia. As of now their approval rating is 8%. As yole can tell I am not in a good mood. How long is this hearing stuff supposed to take. ?

####
Sandra...I am with you.
And I agree with Daryl.....
Our Congress is lame....they do not want to do or listen to we the people....SO....WE GET THEM OUT...BOTTOM LINE...

OUT OF OFFICE....

and I would vote for alot of you, famblee....because YOU GET IT.

STRATEGY FOR FRIDAY AUGUST 1

The feedback we received after today's hearing was that it went VERY well. Many of us listened on line and were so impressed by those that spoke out in favor of ending horse slaughter. . You should all be extremely proud of yourselves for the huge job you did. It really set the groundwork for HR6598 and it seems as though we are off to the right start. Now, we just need to keep sprinting. Once again it shows what can be accomplished when we all work together.

Until further notice, the strategy will be to continue to gain co-sponsors for HR6598.

As well as calling DC, this is a perfect time to call your Representative's local office for an August appointment. You can also check to see if your Rep is scheduled to be at an event near you. It is a perfect opportunity to get their attention and have a few words.

We now have even more of a reason to remain motivated. None of us knows for sure what tomorrow will bring but it is not impossible to see the end of horse slaughter this year.

We are BARBARO'S VOICE.....let it continue to be heard!!!

Thanks for everything,
Shelley and Deb
Americans Against Horse Slaughter

Per a Press Release from AWI that I just found in my Inbox, the text of the statements presented at the hearing are/will be available at

http://www.awionline.org

Good article, Alex!

Press Release from AWI

Goodnight Barbaro

We are here...

Will watch for you in the heavenly skies...and know that you are happy, painfree and with your heavenly frens....love you.

Goodnight Family/Fans of Barbaro

Tomorrow is a new day...

We can do this famblee....we can get the ball rolling...we know that every second that goes by...a beautiful horse is pushed into a tunnel of barbaric death...we speak for so many that cannot speak for themselves.

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

We are a family of love and care...we know how hard it is to get Congress to listen to us...but they have never faced a strong, united family like the FOBS.

Have a bless evening....and I am so thankful to be a small part of this beautiful family.

###
Goodnight Alex.
Goodnight Tim and Fair Hill.
Our Fallen Angels...we are here.

I was listening to Pacelle's testimony about Mexican slaughter...and I swear he talked about my White Mare. Tears and tears and tears. It just will not go away.

(((((Jonna))))

hang in there....

It will go away. When our bills are passed,and you have avenged her death, they will go away. USE them. I KNOW exactly what you mean!

Grab hold of those feelings and turn them into anger against the whole stupid mess.

You will see. When this is over, we will ALL be able to sleep better.

Perhaps....

We should now ask those congressmen and senators who have been sitting on the fence over this issue with the election drawing near ....to define where they stand on this issue??? A simple YES or NO !! No waffling...no this or that or ifs allowed!!!

Tell them with the election drawing very close we are also deciding WHO TO SUPPORT and while they are ONE we are HUNDREDS and THOUSANDS of people who are VERY TIRED of POLITICAL GAME PLAYING and WE OUR FAMILIES and FRIENDS and THEIR FRIENDS ARE PREPARED TO LET OUR VOICES BE EXPRESSED AT THE BALLOT BOX in SUPPORT OF THE HORSES!!!!

TIME TO GET TOUGH....I will never forget the KAUFMAN 400 and the "white mare" as long as I live on this earth.I will never forget being told that we could not save the horses that fateful day when Cavel breathed its last breath even though we had raised thousands of dollars to pay the KB's!!!!!!

I WILL NEVER FORGET....

HUGS and love ...you are THE BEST FAMBLEE!!!

Today, I got a beautiful gift in the mail. As you probably read a few days ago, Joan of Delaware drew a sketch of Cloud, one of the Mustangs we have been fighting for.

Today I got the original in the mail. You can see it here:

Joan's Sketch of Cloud on the Forum

It is also posted on Americans Against Horse Slaughter.

This is something I will cherish forever. The beauty of if isn't just in the artwork but in the giving, the love behind it.

I am overwhelmed with tears and I just have to say a big THANK YOU to Joan, for creating it, for sending it.

This family is amazing. We have all formed friendships will last a lifetime.

I love you guys. I love Barbaro. Unbelievable.

###Jonna, she will forever be "your" white mare. I will always think of you whenever I hear about her. You are her earth angel, keeping her alive in our hearts.

##
Barb AZ,

wow; I couldn't believe when I just read your post about the white mare being avenged - I did not see the hearing, but was thinking today about the white mare being avenged (and that is the exact word I was thinking - AVENGED) and thinking of Jonna....

Jonna, you know ever since I heard you talk about her the first time, she has been in my head, too...the beautiful, sweet girl.

Fran

Just back from afternoon errands - and find that Big Brown is Running for Re-Run - that is so cool! Thanks for the info, Alex.

you guys are the best....
(((((((((((((joan, barb, chris, fran, kathyb,)))))))

The Kaufman 400. God what a nightmare that was...saved but not saved.we have been through more emotional trauma over these past years...

Hay, I know! Let's found The Barbaro Psychiatric Center and plop it down right there near NBC...treatment pro-rated depending on how much heinous crap you've been subjected too, etc, etc...

I am so wasted by today...but I'll be ready tomorrow to climb back on...times a wastin' that's for sure.

And as Joan says: it's real simple: YES or NO? Just take a damned stand. The world is watching.

Have a great night everybody, there are great things on the horizon. I'm leaving momentarily for music and distributing BRAND NEW flyers to the multitudes. Back to contacting legislators tomorrow.

Hi Jonna, I also was thinking about the white mare today and how we will not let her down and one day soon we will be able to know that she did not die in vain and we will be victorious.

####
LOL
Jonna I am there, we are all wasted today.
The Barbaro Psychiatric Center Yep!! My husband thinks I am over due!
We have been through more emotional trauma over these past years. Some of us are really getting sick from all of it. Poor Lynne Brown had to walk away, she became so ill. I always have had low blood pressure, two years ago it started up, and Monday I was put on more med's. But I truly feel it will go down if this &%$# bills are passed. The ups and downs have been unbelievable, and the friendship wonderful!

###
Hi hilary, good to see you here!

## All - I encourage you to take a moment and dial into "Equine Heaven" for a moment of lightness and a good laugh as our Beloved Heavenly Equines make their calls to Earthly congressional offices in support of HR6598.

www.equine-heaven.com

We all need a "smile !"

Sherry - sizzling in Arizona

Good night dear frens: finally feeling ready to crash a little and watch some tube and then really sleep. There was something monumental in watching those two+ hours today. Conyers really gets it. The Vet from the UK really gets it, Pacelles, I gotta go back to the release for the names. The ABFA.

We will do this. Love to all: j
Courage

FROM THE DB - re NEW JERSEY FEEDLOT RESCUE:

"Let's raise some $$ and stop the truck from coming on Sunday!!! C'mon FOBs:)"

Hiya, FsOB! I had an awesome experience this evening as I pulled to stop for a red light on Route 2 in Warwick, RI. A car pulled up next to mine and a woman ~ my age (almost 53) called out in a very friendly voice, "protect our horses - yes" and gave me the thumbs up sign. She'd read my Americans Against Horse Slaughter bumper sticker. What an unexpected treat! My thanks to Barb in AZ for posting the synposis of the Judiciary Committee's hearing today. Lots of positive energy coming together, here's to ACN for us all. Peace, RMH

#### To Jonna, I cannot ever watch the video about your beloved White Mare. But whenever I think of her (and it is frequently), I send comforting thoughts your way. I know how much you mourn her murder. Please give all your GHs a pet for me, OK?
To Mary S: Welcome back!
To Joan Roya: Sorry to read that Dr. Sweeney's mother died.
To Maribel: I hope that Hans can get some answers soon.
To Debbie LA: Please take care of yourself, Debbie. Sorry to read about the blood pressure increase. ####

Bee Charmer and Robbie Walsh were third today. It's good to see this horse in his new career.
KLB

Sweet video

###
Robyn Hoffmann thank you this will bring it down!
Happy, you will love it!

Hello Barbaro,

Honey, are you laying in front of the air conditioning vent again? Yes, I know it makes you look cool with your mane blowing in the breeze but Honey, it’s hot down here! Montego does not seem pleased at all to have her forelock plastered to her head all day...Honey, please...scootch over!

We have another weekend approaching but this one will be quiet compared to last weekend. Last weekend we had my brother and my three year old nephew stay with us. Yes Honey, a three year old...

My husband decided that we needed a fire in the firepit and to just sit and relax. Mmmmm, the thoughts do wander.

As I was sitting there in the fire-lighted darkness, and one of the rare moments when the motion light wasn’t set off by my nephew, I noticed our fireflies...and thought of the wonders of a three year old...yes Honey, that means your wonders as well.

Something, or SOMEone, told me that our fireflies were illustrating the patterns of our dreams. The dreams that start early in our lives...

While their lights flicker on and off, dart and weave to and fro, so do the dreams of children. As we grow older, some dreams from our childhood, fade into the ages only to become memories...but sweet memories. Much like the fireflies captured by the curious tikes with shiny glass jars, stirring "oohs" and "ahhhs" as parents quietly hold the moment dear.

But the dreams that we carry deep in our hearts, may need to concede to everyday realities and ride the waves of time...much like the fireflies dodging around the tall grasses and branches only to find it’s way to smoother and calmer breezes.

And the dreams that we seem to have put away for another day, a different time, or, sadly consider that we may never realize, are the fireflies that flicker in the evening night. But if you stay with the dream, er, firefly, you will notice it never goes away. It never dies. It just keeps flickering, catching your eye...stirring your curiosity, grabbing your attention and tugging at your heart. Yes Honey, you know what dreams I’m talking about.

All of my kids are a dream come true as are ALL of my life blessings. You are a life blessing Honey...You, your world, your loved ones and your Fans.

Shall we grab your blanket and fluff it perfectly for nuzzling? Since you insist on lying right in front of the air conditioning vent...Yes Honey, while looking good, you may need the blanket to keep you warm. :)

Cuddle up Honey. Your Dream Angels are busy playing with our fireflies and smiling at the sight of all the dreams that will be stirred up tonight.

Your healing is complete and strength will forever carry you through your days and into the sweet dreams of your loved ones.

I love you Barbaro. Hold onto our little WindChill okay? Keep him warm and away from the vent. Please whisper in his ear that I love him too, okay Honey? Good night and the sweetest dreams to you. XXOOxxooxx. WindChill, here’s to you Sweetheart, xxoo...x

####\
Laurie H. Thank you, you always make me cry. But I love you tuck in for our Barbaro

#########Laurie,

Thank you. That was wonderful tonight and very needed.

Good night my sweet family my Fan's of Barbaro. We have come a long way and we are still fighting the good fight. Prayer the fight will end soon.

Dear Laurie,

May all your fireflies, er dreams come true! Thank you for the tuck in tonight. It always makes the day complete.

hAY famblee!

Maribel, holding you and Hans in my heart. Always.

Famblee: I remember two years ago, as the Barbaro Nation first came together...we'd talk about how we found our way to this site, when we first became interested in horses/racing/this one horse only...

So very, very, very many FOBs said they found this site because Barbaro struck such a personal chord with them as he fought for his life. So very, very, very many FOBs drew strength and inspiration from Barbaro and were helped with their own personal struggles.

We don't get Barbaro updates daily any more, and his personal struggle to live and heal is past. So, it might be easy to forget, sometimes, why he inspired so many of us in the first place. Daily life will do that....

How did Barbaro inspire us then, and how does he inspire us now?

Laurie .... It's been a long time and I have missed your tuck-ins. Thank you for the one tonite. And - please ask Barbaro to be on the look out for two older ponies - Darla and Peggy - Mom and Daughter - who will join him, together, tomorrow - from "Our Mims." Their person, Jeanne, and their fellow lady horse frenz will miss them so much.

Sherry

(((( Hans & Maribel ))))

ASPCA Alert / Sago Palm Toxic to Pets

This was in my inbox when I got home from music. Lightning would strike me if I didn't post it here.

http://www.aspca.org/site/PageServer?pagename=media_newsalert080108&JServSessionIdr010=nw2198hkv1.app28a#1

No Trip to the Beach: Popular Sago Palm Plant Is Toxic to Pets

Daydreaming of a sandy beach and a breeze shimmying through the palm trees? Paradise, right? Not so fast, says Fido. Though palm trees evoke relaxation of the highest order, Sago palm (Cycas revolute)—a stocky member of the Cycad family of plants—is downright dangerous to our furry companions.

According to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) in Urbana, IL, pet poisonings from the increasingly popular plant are on the rise. Since 2003, the Center has seen an increase in cases of Sago palm and Cycad poisonings by more than 200 percent. APCC data also reveals that 50 percent to 75 percent of those cases resulted in fatalities.

A native of Southern Japan, Sago palm has been a common addition to outdoor landscaping in sunny climes, but in recent years, has also emerged as a trendy houseplant in northern states. Though attractive with its dark green leaves and hairy trunk, the plant is highly toxic to cats and dogs. Common signs of Sago palm poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, depression, seizures and liver failure.

“Many pet parents may not be familiar with the toxic effects of Cycad palms, and assume the only poisonous portions are the seeds or nuts,� says Dr. Sharon Gwaltney-Brant, veterinary toxicologist and APCC Vice President. “But all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.�

As always, pet parents should guard against any mishaps and prevent their furry beloveds from coming into contact with Sago palm plants by placing them out of reach. Or consider a nontoxic alternative to brighten your home and keep the dog days of summer cool and carefree.