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    Barbaro Updates: 202

    updates are now here.

    Update 1461: A couple more nice Barbaro articles:

    Vet student remembers 'a special patient', excerpt:

    "It was a little scary," she said. "We weren't sure what he was going to be like."

    Though he was treated like any other horse that entered their care, Cornman said, it quickly became apparent Barbaro was a people person -- uh, horse.

    "He had a good personality. He liked his carrots and grain and was always watching out his stall door," Cornman said. "He was just always interested in what was going on around him."

    Former patrolman remembers Barbaro's greatness and courage, excerpt:

    "This horse makes me shiver when I see him work on the dirt," he said.

    Racing from the far outside, the colt captured a hard-fought victory in the Florida Derby. Matz knew he had something special.

    "He went in as a boy and came out a man," Matz told me in early April.

    Update 1460: Jazil was second again, to an impressive Corinthian. Jazil seemed to make an early move going into the turn, but was no match for Corinthian when Corinthian was asked to run a little. Corinthian won by more than ten lengths...

    Here is a nice article on Kenett Florist: Kennett Florist carries on Barbaro effect. The following is an excerpt:

    "Mrs. Jackson has asked us to continue our work for the anti-slaughter bill and to contribute to the Laminitis Fund," Berstler said, "so that's what we're going to do.

    Update 1459: Mrs. Jackson just called and we had a nice long conversation about Barbaro and all the good things that seem to be happening. I alerted Mrs. Jackson to this rescue effort, she was thrilled! Mrs. Jackson obviously misses Barbaro a lot, he was so much a part of her life for sure, but she did emphasize she would not change a thing (other than the accident itself of course). She is very grateful of all the support and is very busy working on Barbaro's legacy.

    Update 1458: Another cold morning this morning at Fair Hill, and with the wind picking up progressively through the morning it simply got colder. Tim described Fair Hill as desolate this morning ... I think it is an apt description. That all being said the Tapeta track was again good, and I saw at least one horse work on it this morning (and one horse running off with its rider, I was alerted to this when I heard someone holla "oh crap" as they came by me ... they soon regained control). Hawty Creek was my first as usual. She was pretty lively, I may need to work her this weekend to get a bit of wind into her and take the edge off her a little. She is sharp right now, but her race is now not until next weekend at the earliest. I rode Chesapeake City Slew and Grandma for Tim. Both went well, and in company with Tim each time. Flash galloped around nicely again, the others I rode also went well and thankfully my last set got cancelled ... making it seven for the day instead of eight. It was simply a cold morning.

    Another tribute: Barbaro The Legend.

    Update 1457: Sports Illustrated has a nice Barbaro story: A champion until the end, Barbaro touched us with his grace and fighting spirit. The following is an excerpt:

    Barbaro won the Kentucky Derby in the manner of an athlete who is evolved beyond his peers. He cut a massive, striking pose in the Derby paddock before the race, taller and more muscled than the others in the race. The breeding industry buzz had been that Barbaro would one day do his best running on the grass. As Barbaro circled the Churchill paddock, Jill Baffert, the wife of three-time Derby-winning trainer Bob Baffert, turned to her husband and said, "You better hope he's a grass horse."

    I remember that quote from Mrs. Baffert, in response to her husband's comment that Barbaro was supposed to be a grass horse.

    Jazil is running today: Jazil, Corinthian meet again. Achilles of Troy, who appears in First Saturday in May along with Jazil, was scratched from a race at Aqueduct yesterday.

    Comments

    Good Morning FOB's,

    Missing Barbaro. Look forward to the interview with Dr. R. He really had a thing for B.

    Posted by: Trish at February 8, 2007 11:14 AM

    Good morning everyone,
    The article Americas pony was great it is right on the mark of what Big Boss Hoss meant to so many of us,Waiting to see Dr.R interview,

    All have a great day,

    Barbaro will never be forgotten,

    Posted by: JOHN K. at February 8, 2007 11:16 AM

    Good morning!!! waiting for the interview today, I hope

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri in SE Texas at February 8, 2007 11:16 AM

    Good morning, Barbaro! Good morning, Alex! Good morning, fellow Fans!

    I will certainly watch Jeannine's interview with Dr. Richardson. What a caring, compassionate man. Just one more piece of the synergy that was Barbaro! I was so happy to read about the award the Chronicle of the Horse bestowed upon Michael Matz. No one more deserving!

    I have written my representative and senators and am working on messages to the committee chairs. We will get those horror houses closed!

    Alex - Thank you again! Are you staying warm?

    Marg
    Proud Fan of Barbaro forever

    Posted by: Marg in Maine at February 8, 2007 11:21 AM

    Good morning FOB's.
    Sports Illistrated's article is another good one. So is America's Pony. So many excellent articles out there. I've put them all in my favorites.

    Good morning Alex. Thanks againg for keeping this site open for us. I hope you know that our words are only motivation and not intended to cause disrespect or damage. That being said, thank you again.

    Hope all here are well.

    Let us have another productive day.

    Posted by: Cal at February 8, 2007 11:32 AM

    Good morning Alex, FOBs and sweet angel Barbaro,

    I too am looking forward to Jeannine's interview with Dr. R. Just reading your "teaser", Alex, sent the floodgates open once again. Dr. R. is heartbroken - I wish I could give him a hug.

    Have a good day, all.

    Posted by: Judy in Nazareth, PA at February 8, 2007 11:38 AM

    Alex,
    Thank u 4 all the information u provide and updating this site several times a day. U R truly amazing.

    Hope each day is getting a little easier for the Jackson, Dr. Dean, NBC staff, and all others grieving and that they take comfort in the good work being done in memory of Barbaro.

    Take comfort in the memory of Barbaro.

    Posted by: Michelle-GBI NE OH at February 8, 2007 11:43 AM

    Thank You Alex for keeping this site open for all FOB. You are the best! I thought the tears had stopped until I read part of Dr. R's interview and the flood gates opened wide. Can't watch to see the entire interview. Gob Bless Mel Dundon

    Posted by: Mel Dundon at February 8, 2007 11:48 AM

    Morning (energetic) skritches and admiration to the BBH...Hope Slew was a little less enthusiastic about the marshmallow clovers in the Lucky Charms...

    ####
    Speaking of productive, here's a repost from Debra WI and ShelleyA re: Mrs. Jackson's wishes.

    Good Morning FOB's.
    Important Message from Mrs. Jackson.........
    In a conversation with Debra yesterday, Mrs. Jackson stressed how important it is for us to continue Barbaro's work. She really appreciates everyone's outpouring of love and she admires our dedication to end horse slaughter. But she is worried about us losing momentum.
    Mrs. Jackson then spoke about how tough it is at a time like this (I think she meant being emotionally drained, etc.) and then went on to say that we must go on and continue Barbaro's work. She then said, "If we asked Barbaro to go on, Barbaro would do it. How can we not continue?" Mrs. Jackson also said that she heard that we were asking that the Anti Slaughter Bill be renamed to the Barbaro Bill and that she is ALL FOR IT if, in fact, they would consider changing it.
    Mrs. Jackson is a very special lady and stressed that she hopes we continue our path for the safety and welfare of all horses. She also asked that we all continue to log on to "ALEX BROWN'S" (TWR) website and to keep people motivated. We must keep people motivated.
    We can't let this wonderful lady down! She has given us so much by letting us share in Barbaro's life and now we must pay her back for her kindness and generosity. This is a difficult time for her but, even in her sadness, her first interest is seeing this mission through.
    Let's not disappoint Barbaro, The Jacksons, Dr. Richardson, and all in the Barbaro Camp down. This is HIStory guys. This is our chance to contribute.
    HR503 is in the Energy & Commerce Committee and in the Agricultural Committee
    S311 is in the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee
    Along with contacting our own representatives (one congressman and two senators), we should also contact the leadership of these committees and urge them to get their respective bills out of committee and to a vote.
    Links to these committees will follow shortly.
    Shelley and Debra

    Posted by: ShelleyA at February 7, 2007 1:36 PM

    Also links for friends and relations to contact their legislations will follow shortly.

    Cheers,
    Friar Tuck

    Posted by: Friar Tuck at February 8, 2007 11:58 AM

    Good Morning sweet Barbaro, Alex and all the FOB's

    It is still very difficult to watch the video's and look at the pictures of our boy.

    Getting the slaughter stopped will be the best tribute to our Barbaro and then the healing can really begin.

    Susan NJ

    Posted by: Susan at February 8, 2007 12:00 PM

    Once more, without the typo:

    Morning (energetic) skritches and admiration to the BBH...Hope Slew was a little less enthusiastic about the marshmallow clovers in the Lucky Charms...

    ####
    Speaking of productive, here's a repost from Debra WI and ShelleyA re: Mrs. Jackson's wishes.

    Good Morning FOB's.
    Important Message from Mrs. Jackson.........
    In a conversation with Debra yesterday, Mrs. Jackson stressed how important it is for us to continue Barbaro's work. She really appreciates everyone's outpouring of love and she admires our dedication to end horse slaughter. But she is worried about us losing momentum.
    Mrs. Jackson then spoke about how tough it is at a time like this (I think she meant being emotionally drained, etc.) and then went on to say that we must go on and continue Barbaro's work. She then said, "If we asked Barbaro to go on, Barbaro would do it. How can we not continue?" Mrs. Jackson also said that she heard that we were asking that the Anti Slaughter Bill be renamed to the Barbaro Bill and that she is ALL FOR IT if, in fact, they would consider changing it.
    Mrs. Jackson is a very special lady and stressed that she hopes we continue our path for the safety and welfare of all horses. She also asked that we all continue to log on to "ALEX BROWN'S" (TWR) website and to keep people motivated. We must keep people motivated.
    We can't let this wonderful lady down! She has given us so much by letting us share in Barbaro's life and now we must pay her back for her kindness and generosity. This is a difficult time for her but, even in her sadness, her first interest is seeing this mission through.
    Let's not disappoint Barbaro, The Jacksons, Dr. Richardson, and all in the Barbaro Camp down. This is HIStory guys. This is our chance to contribute.
    HR503 is in the Energy & Commerce Committee and in the Agricultural Committee
    S311 is in the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee
    Along with contacting our own representatives (one congressman and two senators), we should also contact the leadership of these committees and urge them to get their respective bills out of committee and to a vote.
    Links to these committees will follow shortly.
    Shelley and Debra

    Posted by: ShelleyA at February 7, 2007 1:36 PM

    Also links for friends and relations to contact their legislators will follow shortly.

    Cheers,
    Friar Tuck

    Posted by: Friar Tuck at February 8, 2007 12:11 PM

    Good Thursday morning Alex, Barbaro and all members of the FsOB

    I enjoy reading all the articles Alex. I'm also looking forward to this morning's interview with Dr. R.

    Shelley & Debra,
    I was wondering how you go about renaming a bill. To have the legislation called the "Barbaro bill" would be such a honor to his memory.

    #######
    Lynda P.
    Surprised to see you on this early.

    Janice
    A forever fan of Barbaro

    Posted by: Janice from Florida at February 8, 2007 12:14 PM

    My Derby 132 book was delivered yesterday. I looked through it right away and two things jumped out at me.

    1) So many of the photos show Barbaro with all four feet off the ground. There is mention of it in the book. The photographers who regularly cover racing said they've never seen a horse spend so much time in mid-air with no feet on the ground. Flying Barbaro!!

    2) Every photo with Peter Brette shows him focused intently on Barbaro. I wonder if he noticed the crowd and the hoopla surrounding the Derby? Even in the winner's circle photo, he's looking at Barbaro and making sure he's okay with the craziness. (and no roses on Barbaro - did he refuse to allow it?)
    The shot of Mrs. Jackson leading Barbaro has Peter just off to the side ready to jump in if needed. He loved that horse so much and believed in him with every fiber of his being. I so wish that this story had a happy ending. :(

    However, seeing all those photos of Barbaro floating through the air as the competition struggled to keep up made me think that he may never have been truly happy with not being able to run again. He loved to run and every shot of him sailing along shows a bright eye full of life. He was one of the greats and we'll never know what he could have done. It's heartbreaking.

    Posted by: Kellye at February 8, 2007 12:16 PM

    Good morning Alex, fellow FOBs and our angel in heaven, Barbaro. Looking forward to seeing the interview with Doc R. His compassion and caring is a wonderful thing in this day and age. Hope everyone has a wonderful day.

    Posted by: Michelle at February 8, 2007 12:16 PM

    Alex, thanks for SI article excerpt. I am going to buy one today. I can't get enough pics of Barbaro the Beautiful One. I don't know much about horse racing, but the day we watched the Kentucky Derby and saw Barbaro, we all said, 'That's the winner!" Barbaro just looked so muscular and tough and beautiful all at the same time.

    Barbaro, I miss you so much and I believe I will for the rest of my life. I want you back so badly, but I know you are living in a wonderful place. I love you so much, Barbaro!!!

    Friends of Barbaro, have a great day!

    Posted by: Amie at February 8, 2007 12:22 PM

    Good morning everyone. Alas, I will be stuck in an office all day. If the interview with Jeannine and Dr. R is aired today, please everyone - post the link if it's online - and take lots of notes in case it's not online. I'm a basketcase just reading Alex's 'preview' - cos I just ache so much for Dr. R.

    We'll all keep pushing forward and we will "do right by Barbaro!"

    Posted by: Sarah From NC at February 8, 2007 12:26 PM

    Hiya, FsOB! I am running late this AM. Stay warm, OK? I hope that Dr. Dean R's interview might be on GMA before I have to leave for work in a few minutes. Peace, RMH

    Posted by: Robyn Hoffmann at February 8, 2007 12:28 PM

    Nice article about a book coming out about Michael Matz and Barbaro.

    http://opinions.bloodhorse.com/viewstory.asp?id=37454

    Posted by: Sue at February 8, 2007 12:33 PM

    Morning Alex -
    I must still drop by here first thing. Some things are just so hard to let go of... Thank you for all you do.

    Continued prayers for the Jacksons and Dr. Richardson as they take this one day at a time. I can only feel my pain, and only imagine theirs.

    Barbaro - Fly with the wind, boy. Miss you.

    Posted by: Pam M at February 8, 2007 12:35 PM

    Enjoying all the Barbaro articles. We couldn't find a movie star with this much publicity. Barbaro will always be our greatest star. Thanks Alex

    Posted by: jane at February 8, 2007 12:39 PM

    Yea that book comes out in April sometime. Going to be really good

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri in SE Texas at February 8, 2007 12:39 PM

    Good morning in Heaven, Barbaro, and hello dear FOB's-
    Another cold morning in the northeast, so bundle up!
    Missing Our Boy so much...we love you Bobby!

    Dr. Dean needs all of our prayers & support. He's more than a special person...We love you too Dr. Dean.

    Take care everybody...I'll check in later.

    Posted by: Cheryl -- NY at February 8, 2007 12:42 PM

    DebG...
    I am going to try to see if I can tune in Eagles Race! I have them both in my virtual stable so I know when they work and race. Been keepin' my peepers on 'em.

    ShelleyA
    Too Funny about your kids and their blankies...MR BOXCAR!!! You naughty little boy! Maybe he wants Armani leather..."I am GREY, you know...these colors you're putting on me just clash with my Grey...remove them!! Or maybe they want blankets with sayings printed on them like.. " I've GOT PEOPLE!" or "THE CHAMP IS IN THE HOUSE" ... LOL ! I love to hear stories like that about all of the FOB's horses.

    Shelley in CA
    Ever since Barbaro strolled through the paddock and out on to the track in the Derby, I have completely given up on handicapping thru stats. HE was so striking and so obviously the winner before running that I said..."Ok that's it...From now I just look at the horses before a race." (I know that is the lamest way to handicap and bet, but it worked for me all summer last year at our local track!! LOL LOL )
    So anyways...when I watch on Tv I have a little game that I play where I just look them over and write down my choice for winner. SMOKEY STOVER jumped off the screen at me !! Again, he excuded confidence like Bobby did. I cant remember though...is he that big BLACK BEAUTY? Or was he the grey? At any rate, I immediatey went and put him in the virtual stable and I was not surprised at all that he won his SUNSHINE Race. Then I was thrilled to find out he was Harry Aleo's!. I dunno...I'm kinda getting stuck on some of those CALI beauty's you guys have out there.....man.

    Happy Thursday to all the BARBARO HEARTS today.

    I understand the meaning of the notion of "B" for Barbaro. It means that you are Fueled by his spirit and his sheer determination. Your soul burns with his fire and you are energized by his legacy of hope. This is a GOOD THING!

    We'll find the right words soon.


    Leslie in MN

    Posted by: Leslie in MN at February 8, 2007 12:45 PM

    Good morning everyone, very cold here today in PA, try to stay warm and safe.
    Keep calling and faxing your Senator and Rep. they need to hear from us.

    Good moring Sunshine, hope you are having a great day in Heaven.

    BELIEVE IN BARBARO

    Posted by: Carol Nichols at February 8, 2007 12:46 PM

    Goodmorning Alex and all FOBs...
    Alex stay warm...and have a great day. Looking forward to Jeanines interview. My heart goes out to Dr. Richardson. I pray that God will soon grant peace within his heart though I know barbaro will always be with him as he is with us.
    Thankyou Alex for all that you do ..
    Jenny

    Posted by: Jenny Estripeaut at February 8, 2007 12:50 PM

    Kellye-
    Your observations make me wonder, too, if Barbaro would ever have been truly happy not being able to "fly" like that again. Although he wanted to live SO much. In the whole 8+ mos., his will to live never waned. So we'll never know. When you describe those pics -- of him w/ all four feet off the ground -- it seems he was never meant to be "earthbound". He FLASHED across this earthly plane like a bolt of LIGHTNING...and then... disappeared -- just as fast!

    I can't look at his pics just yet; I'm still so sad. I hope some of those books are still available for purchase later on.

    Posted by: Spirit Horse, aka Loretta A at February 8, 2007 12:51 PM

    Alex: THANKS for the S.I. article. I thoroughly enjoyd that! It mentioned several areas I have thought of often - Barbaro's stride, the possibility of greatness as Secretariat, and the fact Bernadini did not prove a "great" horse (sorry folks, this is coming from a racehorse person and something I have always felt so I agree with this S.I. writer) so the Preakness could have only been imagined.

    The article brings up another point I have thought of as well: Could Barbaro have had that much power, energy and strength which caused his injury? Just an overwhelmingly strong horse? Regardless, he is in a better place and his place in history will never be forgotten...Can't wait for the book and movie on him....

    BARBARO - THE LEGEND.....

    Posted by: Deb G. at February 8, 2007 1:06 PM

    Good Morning Starshine, Mr. Barbaro...

    Hope you are feeling your oats today...I understand you had a wonderful night...and today is a new day full of fun.

    God Bless Dr. R...and his staff...I pray that they all find comfort and peace...

    God Bless for People like Alex and Tim, also.

    Another day full of hope, courage, and inspiration.

    Please do not forget to call Senators, Congress, and Everyone Involved...THE BARBARO BILL HAS TO BE PASSED QUICKLY...MEXICO IS A NIGHTMARE!!!!

    Also, I am disturbed today..In Houston they found coats made out of dog and cat fur...

    What is it going to take for people to know animals like children are full responsibility, care, love, and money is involved.

    You cannot leave a child alone, a horse, cow, goat, etc...in pasture no food or water...a dog without food and love, and throw cats on the street.

    My heart is broken enough losing our love Barbaro..and some idiots doing this...

    Anyway, forgive me for my preaching...

    Have a bless day, everyone in my prayers and hearts.

    Posted by: JOAN ROYA at February 8, 2007 1:13 PM

    Kellye.

    True.it is heartbreaking. But try to remember that you witnessed that one BRIEF SHINING MOMENT of GREATNESS. I guess that is why they are called "moments"...they occur so fast...in the blink of an eye. But you saw it!! Your own world paused for a moment, and you saw it! Many others did not.
    Sometimes I think that somehow the universe picked all of us to ahead of time to be here in this story. I has been difficult for many to understand how they got here and why. Maybe it was to show us that one fleeting moment of greatness. To show us what we can be ourselves if pay attention.

    Was his greatness unfulfilled? I say no...because he left us here to finish.

    "Please complete these unfinished tasks of mine and in that, I will comfort you"

    Leslie in MN

    Posted by: Leslie in MN at February 8, 2007 1:13 PM

    Leslie in MN: You go girl! Fly Eagle Fly!

    Posted by: Deb G.. at February 8, 2007 1:18 PM

    Good Morning FOB's

    How wonderful to see everyone back in the fight to end slaughter. And to see Resolution HRES117 honoring our Barbaro in the House of Representatives!!! I truly believe we are on our way to victory!

    Stephanie is working with Jason Shandler to give us another voice....and a very strong voice at that!! He will be checking this site and I'm sure he'll be impressed with all the hard work by the FOB's

    As of now, our mission remains the same.

    Along with contacting our own representatives (one congressman and two senators), we should also contact the leadership of the following committees and urge them to get their respective bills out of committee and to a vote.

    HR503 is in the Energy & Commerce Committee and in the Agricultural Committee
    S311 is in the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee

    Links to these committees will follow shortly. Special thanks to Socorro and Cheryl for keeping these links going (we are both "blue link challenged!")

    Wouldn't it just be the best thing in the world if we could get this passed before Barbaro's birthday. What a wonderful gift to our champion.

    Shelley and Debra

    Posted by: ShelleyA at February 8, 2007 1:22 PM

    Good morning all, and thank you Alex!

    Please work on our Barbaro Bill today. We need to get the ban on slaughter passed as quickly as possible to save as many equine lives as we can.

    Please call your Sentors and Representatives and make your voice heard for Barbaro today!

    Rock on, Sweet Prince, as you dance in the meadows of Heaven.

    Posted by: Lor in PA at February 8, 2007 1:27 PM

    Alex - thanks for all the racing articles, especially Jeannine Edward's interview with Dr. R. Hope to tape it if it runs while I'm at work. My heart goes out to Dr. R and everyone at NBC who took such good care of Barbaro.

    Posted by: SusanO at February 8, 2007 1:29 PM

    ####
    Morning Deb G.

    Do you think we can keep ourselves out of trouble today? LOL

    On a more serious note- I e-mailed Senator George Voinovich last night asking for his support on the anti-slaughter bill. I hope he climbs aboard.

    I actually need to get back to work.

    I'll check in again later.

    Miss you Barbaro.

    Posted by: Cal at February 8, 2007 1:30 PM

    "One Moment In Time" (Sung by Whitney Houston)

    Each day I live
    I want to be
    A day to give
    The best of me
    I'm only one
    But not alone
    My finest day
    Is yet unknown

    I broke my heart
    Fought every gain
    To taste the sweet
    I face the pain
    I rise and fall
    Yet through it all
    This much remains

    I want one moment in time
    When I'm more than I thought I could be
    When all of my dreams are a heartbeat away
    And the answers are all up to me
    Give me one moment in time
    When I'm racing with destiny
    Then in that one moment of time
    I will feel
    I will feel eternity

    I've lived to be
    The very best
    I want it all
    No time for less
    I've laid the plans
    Now lay the chance
    Here in my hands

    Give me one moment in time
    When I'm more than I thought I could be
    When all of my dreams are a heartbeat away
    And the answers are all up to me
    Give me one moment in time
    When I'm racing with destiny
    Then in that one moment of time
    I will feel
    I will feel eternity

    You're a winner for a lifetime
    If you seize that one moment in time
    Make it shine

    Give me one moment in time
    When I'm more than I thought I could be
    When all of my dreams are a heartbeat away
    And the answers are all up to me
    Give me one moment in time
    When I'm racing with destiny
    Then in that one moment of time
    I will be
    I will be
    I will be free
    I will be
    I will be free

    Posted by: Sarah From NC at February 8, 2007 1:31 PM

    I don't think the interview is on GMA this morning because I am watching it now and nothing is being said. Dont they usually say first thing?

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri in SE Texas at February 8, 2007 1:31 PM

    # Sorry for the lost post...but for me, that song sums up Barbaro and for us that carry on in his name.

    Posted by: Sarah From NC at February 8, 2007 1:32 PM

    Good Morning Cal: trouble? now that's a "burning hot" question lol Have a good day.....

    :-)

    Posted by: Deb G. at February 8, 2007 1:32 PM

    Is anybody doing anything to make sure the slaughter ban has the right wording? From previous posts, it sounds to me like the door has been left open to interpret it differently when it gets passed.

    It would be a shame to have to start over after all this hard work.

    Posted by: Donna in caNADA at February 8, 2007 1:34 PM

    WE MISS YOU SO MUCH BARBARO. MY HEART BREAKS AND I HOPE YOU ARE NO LONGER IN PAIN.YOU WERE AND ARE THE MOST BEAUTIFUL HORSE I EVER SAW.I HAVE BEEN ON THE RACE TRACK SINCE 1947 AND NO HORSE HAS EVER AFFECTED ME THE WAY YOU HAVE. I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER YOU AND LOVE YOU.
    BETTY

    Posted by: BETTY FORD at February 8, 2007 1:35 PM

    Good Morning Barbaro! Seems you are pretty busy in Heaven!

    All, yep I did it here is my attempt at a Tribute to Barbaro!


    Ro & Brady

    Posted by: Rosemarie at February 8, 2007 1:47 PM

    Good morning, Alex. Thank you so much for your continued posting and linking to the various articles about Barbaro. I too am looking forward to the interview with Dr. R.

    Stay warm, Alex!

    Linda Northeast Philly

    Posted by: Linda Jones at February 8, 2007 1:48 PM

    ##Good Morning Sweet Prince. I miss you.

    Good Morning All FOB's, I just read the excerpt from the upcoming interview with Dr. R. and the tears came again. I hope someone will write about it because I don't have sound and most of the time I can't get these video things to work.
    I'm not sure I would get through it anyway. Dr. Richardson is just so special.

    Have a good day everyone,

    Judy

    Posted by: Judy (Ontario, CA) at February 8, 2007 1:56 PM

    Good Morning Barbaro, Alex & all the FOB,

    The articles are wonderful. The observations bring comfort. In the American Pony article, one of the words used to describe our Barbaro was "nobility". No one could ever argue about that!
    There is a new found strength in the daily posts. A resolve to carry on, in Barbaro's name, the work that needs to be done. There is a great untiy & bonding here. It keeps his memory alive. It keeps us focused on what needs to be done. And we will!
    Every morning, I kiss Miss Clancy (my SPCA doggie special) good-bye before I leave for work. And once again when I get home. She turns her face to me with those beautiful, trusting eyes.

    Kathy in cold NY

    Posted by: Kathy at February 8, 2007 2:00 PM

    Busy day today contacting the Energy & Commerce Committee/Agricultural Committee for HR 503. At least this is something positive that I can do to honor the memory of sweet Barbaro. Missing him lots today. We won't let Mrs. Jackson down.

    Posted by: Tricia at February 8, 2007 2:04 PM

    Alex,

    Thanks for the great (Heart-wrentching)article. Each time I read an article about our champ... I feel the loss all over again.

    Bless you for touching our lives and keeping the memory of our sweet champion alive.

    I still miss him so.

    Posted by: Karen at February 8, 2007 2:04 PM

    Good Morning FOB's -

    My thoughts and prayers are with all the FOB's, Alex, Tim, Michael Matz, the Jacksons, Dr. Richardson, and of course beloved Barbaro in heaven. We all miss him so!

    Thank you Sarah in NC for "One Moment In Time".

    Posted by: Karen MI at February 8, 2007 2:05 PM

    Special prayers for our hero Dr. Richardson. I am eternally grateful to him for the miracle of an extra eight months with our baby boy.

    Posted by: Tricia at February 8, 2007 2:07 PM

    Good morning to all. Hope everyone is keeping warm. I suppose the Floridians are...

    Thanks so much Alex for posting the links to the excellent articles, and for keeping us up on who is racing when and where.

    Staying home from work today with a sick son so will get some emails off to my senators and others and make some calls.

    Go Barbaro Go! Your spirit lives on.

    Nancy in Va Beach :)

    Posted by: Nancy in Va Beach at February 8, 2007 2:09 PM

    Rosemarie: Thank You for that wonderful video! Gorgeous pictures....

    Posted by: Deb G. at February 8, 2007 2:11 PM

    Good morning to all.
    I'm almost afraid to post today, because of my late night rantings. But I just had to say how beautiful the post from Sarah in NC was. It is so fitting.
    Hope the energy is all positive today. Yesterday was such a great day, so many great ideas.
    Love & Peace to all,
    Verna

    Posted by: Verna1 at February 8, 2007 2:14 PM

    Good Morning, FOB's!

    Its another cold day here in Chester County but the sun is out - that always helps me cope with cold weather.

    ShelleyA, I pray the bills are passed before Barbaro's birthday. That would be such a wonderful gift for the Jacksons, Michael Matz, Peter Brette, Dr R (and NBC and KF), Eduardo and Edgar Prado - and for us.

    But if its not, well, we keep going.

    And I can now do my small part to raise public awareness. I have been asked to design workshops for retreats at the ranch. For the animal communication/equine Reiki segments, I will inform people about racetrack safety, the rescues (Steve Rei and MHR come to mind immediately), retirement facilities and the anti-slaughter legislation and how they can be part of the solutions. Joanna and I are also going to be working to set up the ranch as a non-profit and her family can continue to rescue horses and I can continue to help them heal and enjoy their new, loving lives. For those we can save, my heart rejoices. For those we can't, my heart weeps.

    My fire is to bring Knowledge, Action and Compassion out of Ignorance, Anger and Fear. Part of where I come from is called Ahimsa - non-violence in thought, word and deed. Ahimsa guided Gandhi. May God and my guides help me walk my path.

    Alex, let us know when the interview with Dr. R is shown...I would love to continue hearing his perspective on those extraordinary 8+ months he had with Barbaro. A time like that comes very rarely in a person's life and we are all - each in our own small ways - a part of that. But Dr R - this has profoundly affected him in ways he may not understand yet. Time will give him that opportunity to examine how he has been affected.

    Must go. Try to keep warm, everybody.

    Healing, Love, Peace,
    ONS,
    Lyn Gilbert

    Posted by: Lyn Gilbert at February 8, 2007 2:20 PM

    I read something at the againstslaughter group regarding Hilary Clinton. A few posters who called her office said they were not getting any answers about her position on the Bill. One said that she was told that Hilary would not be co-sponsoring because she did last time and they couldn't co-sponsor again....I'm thinking whaaaa??? This was obviously a very uninformed person.

    Could our FOBs in New York call and clarify this. If Hilary can't step up and co-sponsor this Bill I sure as heck won't be considering her as my President.

    Posted by: cathy potter/california at February 8, 2007 2:24 PM

    ##3
    Lyn...I wish you and Joanna the very best.

    Posted by: JOAN ROYA at February 8, 2007 2:25 PM

    Ro & Brady - Your tribute was beautiful. I just got done watching it. I miss Barbaro so much and really appreciate your sharing that with us.

    Have to go to work now. Will check in later. I have to come here every morning before I start or my day just doesn't start right.

    Proud to be an FOB!!

    Posted by: Dale in Aiken SC at February 8, 2007 2:25 PM

    I was reading the previous set of posts (from yesterday) and came across this one, which I want to post again because it expresses everything I wanted to say.

    _______________________________________________
    Alex,
    I will be looking forward to the date and time of
    Jeannine Edwards' interview with Dr. Richardson. Just another reminder of how gracious it was of him to grant an interview so soon.

    Sounds like he is taking this very hard, I believe he put his whole heart into Barbaro's treatment. I just hope he realizes that he has the world's greatest admiration and respect for his courageous and heroic effort.

    Posted by: Michelle-GBI NE OH at February 8, 2007 3:06 AM
    _______________________________________________

    You expressed it so well Miclelle-GBI NE OH...

    Posted by: Anita MA at February 8, 2007 2:28 PM

    ###
    ROSEMARIE - you did a great job on the video (even though watching them always makes me cry!) - did Barbaro's buddy Brady help you? Some of my favorite pictures were featured...and I think you are the only one who had Mocha the cow! That brought back such sweet memories of big, bold Barbaro actually backing away from Mocha's flapping tongue...which made Dr. Richardson laugh! Where did you find the Mocha picture? I'd like it for my collection?
    Thanks for this beautiful tribute!
    Nancy

    Posted by: Nancy in CT at February 8, 2007 2:28 PM

    Alex, one more huge thank you for maintaining this site and providing us with the wonderful input-you are truly remarkable.
    Another cold and beautiful day here in Flemington and I see our boy flying on the clouds..Thoughts and prayers to all who took such great care of the Champion.

    Posted by: ELLEN at February 8, 2007 2:32 PM

    Good Morning Alex..... Thanks for the article AGAIN... I am saving all of them for my Barbaro notebook that I am making.

    Cal... We will TRY to stay out of trouble today.. Do you have a light? I am out of matches...

    Deb... Hi... Did you check your kitchen this morning to see if anything was missing?

    Renee... Don't tell me, your at the store shopping right?

    Judy.... Howdy.... Can I borrow some money for food?

    All other FOB's I am patiently waiting for Good Morning America.... I have not yet decided whether to skate OR go see the horses today......... I guess time will tell aye?

    Barbaro... Why are my dishes still in the sink?
    Geeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeesh I am sooooooooo sorry that I am out of fruit but I was in so much pain yesterday, I couldn't go to the store. Then when I took my meds, I was too loaded to go to the store. I'll make it to the store today for you.... Please do the dishes for me and I'll have a lot of treats for you tonight when I come home...... ;-)

    Love you my Strength and Angel...........:-)

    Posted by: Nina at February 8, 2007 2:34 PM

    Good morning, sweet Boy...thinking of you always and sending lots of love your way.

    Good morning Alex.

    Good morning FOB's.

    Looking forward to Dr. R's interview...although it will be hard to see how difficult this is for him. He is in my thoughts and prayers.

    Let's make it a great and productive day..for Barbaro and all creatures big and small.

    Posted by: Maria K. at February 8, 2007 2:38 PM

    Nancy in CT. Give me your e-mail and I'll send the Mochacow pic. I actually have it saved on my work computer.

    Ro & Brady

    Posted by: Rosemarie at February 8, 2007 2:38 PM

    Hello Everyone -

    This is one of of the best articles that I have
    read regarding Barbaro: Enjoy -

    http://www.popmatters.com/pm/features/article/10806/americas-pony/

    Darcy

    Posted by: Darcy at February 8, 2007 2:39 PM

    ##Nina, coming your way, you be careful out there. I advise going to see the horses, I think it would be safer.

    Have a good shopping trip.

    Judy

    Posted by: Judy (Ontario, CA) at February 8, 2007 2:39 PM

    ###
    Ro, that video montage was beautiful...just beautiful. What was the music? You and Brady did a fantastic creation.

    Healing, Love, Peace,
    ONS,
    Lyn Gilbert

    Posted by: Lyn Gilbert at February 8, 2007 2:39 PM

    Darcy: I guess you were gone yesterday... Alex put that article up on the main board for all of us and YES it is the BEST article so far that I have read about our Champ as well......

    My Strength and Angel Barba...... ;-) Aahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh I love you Big Guy......

    Posted by: Nina at February 8, 2007 2:48 PM

    No worries here about losing momentum. There's no going back, now- we're on a path that has taken on a life of its own.

    Posted by: Anna in Texas at February 8, 2007 2:49 PM

    Yeah Lyn.........

    I want to skate to that music..... I love that music...... Beautiful skating music...........I going to choreograph a program for Barbaro with a lot of "speed" in my program... A few jumps and lots spins and footwork..... But the program in general will be FAST.....


    Love you my Big Champ and Angel...... ;-)

    Posted by: Nina at February 8, 2007 2:50 PM

    #### This is in response to Kellye at February 8, 2007 12:16 PM. You are so right about Peter Brette.

    I remember reading that one day, way before the running of the Kentucky Derby, someone asked Mr. Matz what the name Barbaro meant. He shouted out the person's question to Peter B. Quick as a whip, Perter B. answered "Kentucky Derby Winner". I always chuckle when I think of that story.

    Posted by: Anita MA at February 8, 2007 2:51 PM

    #### Does anyone know if the Grace Foundation reached their goal to save the latest group of feedlot horses? Sorry--I can't access the threads when I'm at work to check on it! Thanks!

    Posted by: Dawn in Omaha at February 8, 2007 2:56 PM

    Looking forward to Dr. Richardson interview. I know it still must be hard on him since he tried so hard to save Barbaro.

    It is better to love then never loved at all.(so true)

    Love and Kisses Barbaro!

    Posted by: LLeslie In Oklahoma at February 8, 2007 2:57 PM

    ###
    ROSEMARIE - oh, thank you! It will make a wonderful addition to my Barbaro scrapbooks!

    mllebutterfly@sbcglobal.net

    Posted by: Nancy in CT at February 8, 2007 3:05 PM

    Can anyone please tell me when the interview with Dr. R is ???

    Thank you!

    Posted by: Ruth Stacey at February 8, 2007 3:06 PM

    #####

    Dawn...I saw where they are needing alot of money to save the horses.

    When Barbaro's Bill passes, I hope breeders will slow down on making babies, etc....we have to save our horses and find loving homes that is for sure.

    Posted by: JOAN ROYA at February 8, 2007 3:07 PM

    Ruth; we don't know yet. Alex will let us know. I am sure Jeannine will call/email him

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri in SE Texas at February 8, 2007 3:08 PM

    Good Morning Everyone,
    It is interesting ever since Barbaro left us the sun has been shining here.

    Dr.Richardson, It breaks my heart to know you are still having difficulty as we are. I wish you comfort and peace and I hope that void fills in. Barbaro will see to that.

    Nina,
    I found peppermint wrapers in my slipers this morning and hay in my bed. I hope you feel better.

    Sweet Spirit Barbaro,
    Fly darling, spred your wings and fly like no one ever has. I love you and miss you.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 3:11 PM

    Lynda ... Thanks! I may not be able to see it because I am at work, but hopefully it will be videotaped and a link provided in this site!

    Have a Blessed Healing Day!

    Posted by: Ruth Stacey at February 8, 2007 3:15 PM

    Good morning everyone.

    I am starting to get more people outside of this site involved in the anti-slaughter movement.

    I really believe something good is going to happen from everyone's grief.

    Posted by: marie from atl at February 8, 2007 3:16 PM

    marie,
    What I like is when horse slaughter is mentioned ears perk up and people listen. It also amazes me that people are unaware of Americas big well kept secret, and are shocked to hear it want to help.

    Believe in Barbaro

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 3:20 PM

    "Friendly suggestions are as pleasant as perfume." (Proverbs 27:9)

    Today's Word

    Friends help make this life a little better each day. You can
    probably think of multiple instances where a good friend changed the
    day for you and made you look on the brighter side. That's exactly
    what God intended friendship to be. True friends know you well; they
    give you wise advice from the Word of God. No ministry would ever
    get off the ground without support from friends in the faith, and
    this ministry is certainly no exception. The wonderful things God
    has done through this outreach are a direct result of the commitment
    that friends like you have made to stand with us in reaching out to
    millions of people around the world. Everyone needs a faithful
    friend — so why not make a commitment today to be a friend to
    someone who needs you.

    A Prayer for Today

    God, thank You for the friends that You have put in my life. May I
    be the encourager and strengthener that I know You want me to be. In
    Jesus' Name. Amen.

    Thank YOU BARBARO for being such a good friend and bringing so many strangers together to develop a friendship.........

    My Angel Barbaro... ;-)

    Renee: Man now the shoes and slippers? I better check my skates...... I haven't been up long so I really haven't found anything YET except fot the dishes aren't done :-(

    Posted by: Nina at February 8, 2007 3:20 PM

    POST A

    Here are a couple of links (not blue, alas)

    This makes it simple and painless for people to find and contact their legislators:

    https://community.hsus.org/campaign/FED_2007_horse_slaughter?qp_source=gabawj


    Cheers,
    Friar Tuck

    Posted by: Friar Tuck at February 8, 2007 3:21 PM

    POST B

    This link offers official, reliable, info about the issue, what exactly we're trying to accomplish, and how:

    http://www.saplonline.org/horses.htm

    Cheers,
    Friar Tuck

    Posted by: Friar Tuck at February 8, 2007 3:21 PM

    Barbaro, we are all here reading the wonderful articles about you. All of them in some way or another mention your beauty, brilliant athleticism, bravery, dignity and heart. We miss you so much.. always will.

    Alex, thank you for providing these updates and articles about Barbaro.

    We will always love you sweet Barbaro.

    Daphne

    Posted by: Daphne at February 8, 2007 3:22 PM

    Good Morning Alex and all FOB, Thanks for all the wonderful articles Alex.
    Barbaro, always and forever in my heart.

    Posted by: Robin Miller at February 8, 2007 3:26 PM

    Hello my friends....

    As some of you already know, I have just finished my latest video tribute to BARBARO...It is one that had hoped to make many, many years from now...

    It is entitled BARBARO THE LEGEND

    Here is the link...

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ovv6ovghi4w

    I hope it will touch your hearts just as BARBARO touched our lives...

    with love and gratitude,

    pamie

    Posted by: Pamela at February 8, 2007 3:27 PM

    Called my Congressman. Called my Senators. Ordered my anti slaughter (Until They are Safe) bracelet from Habitat for Horses. Ordered Alex's book on the industry of Horse Racing. Will make calls as long as I need to--we must make this happen for Barbaro, for Mrs. Jackson, for all those horses waiting. I see the face of The White Mare everytime I close my eyes. I hear her. There aren't enough tears....
    Snowing here in the Syracuse area. A lot. The little OK brood bitch is getting to like the feel of it on her slender muzzle. I "pulled" her spay sutures this morning. She was spayed on 1.11.07. (I just got her last weekend.) Some were so ingrown I had to use a damned X-Acto knife to slip under and through the tight, tight knots. I went so slowly, pulled them up as far as I could get them from her little belly. But some were ingrown, and she made these little yelps, but lay so still. I did not cry then, but I am now...for all these animals who are so USED.

    Heart was lucky. Someone loved her, gave her up after three litters (one still on the farm...) and sent her to her peace in far, far away NY. I called this woman this morning to let her know that Heart was HOME. She was relieved...that she was not just being fostered...I don't know why I'm crying so now...but I am. Maybe calling the politicos...there is so much to do, and it seems paltry little that WE can do. But I know that step by step we will get there....Mrs. Jackson: we ARE here, and we are taking those steps. In the name of your dazzling, shining, electrifying colt...
    in the name of them all...who didn't have lives--or humane, loving deaths like Barbaro. In the name of The White Mare...

    Posted by: jonna at February 8, 2007 3:28 PM

    Thanks Alex, I live day to day for these priceless updates. Please keep them coming. I cry every time I read or see anything about Barbaro...I love him and miss him so much.

    Posted by: lou ann at February 8, 2007 3:29 PM

    ###
    RENEE - yes, it's sunny...but it's been oh so cold since Barbaro went home!

    Of course we (and he) were blessed with abnormally warm weather until lately, and I'm so very grateful that enabled him to graze late in the season..."because he was happy!"

    Nancy

    Posted by: Nancy in CT at February 8, 2007 3:32 PM

    ###

    Nina
    Thank you for your prayers...comforting!

    Dishes not done...oh oh...maybe Bobby followed Pine Island somewhere?????

    Posted by: D'Anne in the beautiful foothills of the Smokies at February 8, 2007 3:35 PM

    ***** CANDLES *****

    Barbaro has only 3,500 candles he is still in second.

    Vivi may she be safe, has over 8,000

    Ro & Brady

    Posted by: Rosemarie at February 8, 2007 3:35 PM

    #####

    Renee - My chosen riding discipline is hunter/jumper. Many people have purchased off the track Thoroughbreds and retrained them to show in the hunter ring. Whwn they find out where their horses might have ended up they are shocked.

    Posted by: marie from atl at February 8, 2007 3:38 PM

    D'Anne...
    Yeah maybe that is where he is... Let's ask Gilligan if they are stranded... OMG we need to go and get them and save them from the headhunters......


    Love to all and my ANGEL Barbaro.... ;-)

    Posted by: Nina at February 8, 2007 3:39 PM

    ###3

    Vivi has over 8,000 candles.

    Barbaro has over 3,000

    get those candles lite...please.

    Posted by: JOAN ROYA at February 8, 2007 3:40 PM

    Translastion of the word Love.........


    BARBARO


    Angel and Strength for me 4-ever.... ;-)

    Posted by: Nina at February 8, 2007 3:40 PM

    Friar Tuck - Thanks so much for the link on horse slaughter. I feel sick when I see pictures or hear descriptions of what happens to our innocent equine friends. BUT I think more people need to take a look at things like that and become aware of the problem. The FOBs are such an AWESOME group and I know we'll all make a difference!

    Pamie - Thank you again for your tribute! I saved it to my YouTube "Barbaro" folder last night and watched it again this morning (makes me cry buckets every time). I absolutely LOVE that Josh Groban song from the Troy soundtrack. Its such a great song for grief...uplifting and heartbreaking at the same time.

    I hope everyone has a good day!

    Posted by: Chrissy at February 8, 2007 3:42 PM

    Nancy,
    We were so lucky to see him graze and to see how happy he was. Barbaro left us incredible memories. On the way to work this morning a caller called Brad Davis, this caller is very involved with the tracks and loves racing. They played that music used in racing, I teared up so badley, and thought of Barbaro leaving the starting gate.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 3:42 PM

    We are coming up on the anniversary of the disappearance of Vivi, the whippet, from last year's dog show. I think her candles are a temporary surge. Anyway, it is nice to see her remembered.

    Posted by: Marilyn/CA at February 8, 2007 3:43 PM


    ##

    Good Morning Joan and Renee....
    How's it going??

    Posted by: D'Anne in the beautiful foothills of the Smokies at February 8, 2007 3:43 PM

    Good Morning D'Anne,
    It's good to see you. :)

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 3:44 PM

    ##
    Thanks
    It's been a horrid two months...how you feeling Renee...everything come out OK with the Doc and tests??

    Posted by: D'Anne in the beautiful foothills of the Smokies at February 8, 2007 3:45 PM

    Can someone please tell me where to buy the book numerous people have mentioned ... Derby 132? Or the full name of the book.

    Thanks so much -

    Posted by: Cindy at February 8, 2007 3:45 PM

    #### Friar Tuck--thanks again for providing the link to HSUS. Reminded me to email it to MORE folks today.

    Jonna--I wear my Habitat for Horses bracelet 24/7 along with my 3 Barbaro bracelets. Mine is for a "Sorrel TB gelding, stripe, 16 hands--slaughtered on 7/15/04". I see it every day and think of him and the fact that he is one of thousands. I might order one for Jason S since he has joined our fight.

    Posted by: Dawn in Omaha at February 8, 2007 3:47 PM

    ##3

    D'Anne..good morning to you...also...any snow on the foothills....

    Posted by: JOAN ROYA at February 8, 2007 3:47 PM

    Cindy,
    www.Secretariat.com It is just beautiful!

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 3:48 PM

    Hi again.

    Just wanted to mention how much I'm enjoying Equine Heaven!!! I look forward to the updates each day and can't wait to see who wins the Triple Halo this year.

    Great work! And...to borrow a quote from Dolly Parton in Steel Magnolias, "Laughter through tears is my favorite emotion."

    Posted by: Chrissy at February 8, 2007 3:49 PM

    Thank you Alex for posting all these great links. I is heartwarming to see that our Sweet Barbaro's memory and legacy is gathering more momentum every day. Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Jackson, Dr. R., Micheal and Edgar and most of all Sweet Barbaro to Congress Res. 117.
    Dr.R. once again has shown us his deep humanity and compassion, which shows what a consummate professional and scientist AND extraordinary human being he is, I Salute You Sir!
    Thank you all FOB's for the wonderful tributes, Sarah from NC, 'one moment in time' was created for our Sweet B. as was 'I'll always love you'. Barbaro Champion of Our Hearts Forever.

    Posted by: Eva at February 8, 2007 3:49 PM

    thank you ro and brady for the lovely montage--and music. I have never seen several of those photos.
    Here the snow is blanketing our grief. The little brood from OK goes out and does a huge back to front strtch GH love to do....sutures all gone now...that made me smile....love to all of you. Thank you ALex and Tim for letting us still have this avenue for our thoughts, emotions and hopes.....jonna

    Posted by: jonna at February 8, 2007 3:49 PM

    #### Cindy--order the Kentucky 132 book from secretariat.com and proceeds will go towards funding laminitis research.

    Posted by: Dawn in Omaha at February 8, 2007 3:49 PM

    ###
    Hay Joan
    No the only thing we had was a three hour slight coating of ice last week but since then it's been pretty warm...got up to 68 yesterday....how about you?

    Posted by: D'Anne in the beautiful foothills of the Smokies at February 8, 2007 3:49 PM

    D'Anne,
    I passed the stressd test my ekg changed a bit and the shortness of breath is still bothering me.
    I miss him so much...those eyes,and his kookie personality. How are you doing?

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 3:51 PM

    Thanks so much Dawn, I really appreciate it.

    Posted by: Cindy at February 8, 2007 3:51 PM

    Would someone be kind enough to post the Equine Heaven link in blue. I can't find it, no matter what I do. UGH

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 3:53 PM

    ###
    Renee
    The stress of Bobby's passing can be a real problem for someone who is experiencing your symptoms. I am healthy and my BP shot up pretty well. I suspect there are a lot of us who are feeling the same way. It doesn't seem to be leaving any time soon either.

    (((Renee)))

    Posted by: D'Anne in the beautiful foothills of the Smokies at February 8, 2007 3:55 PM

    Me, too, I'd like the link to equine heaven :o)

    Posted by: Anita MA at February 8, 2007 3:56 PM

    ###
    D'Anne.

    doing okay...finally warmed up...here.

    we are all pulling together for BARBARO...GREAT.

    Posted by: JOAN ROYA at February 8, 2007 3:57 PM

    Damn! Now ain't that just a stone-ground pity?! Cock fighting is about to be banned in NM?! (I personally think this is just part of the Barbaro Effect.....)
    (Tell me ONE redeeming thing about cock fighting....
    listening, not hearing anything....that horse of "ours" has been busy in heaven......)

    Posted by: jonna at February 8, 2007 3:58 PM

    #########
    Nancy in CT hope you got the pic I e-mailed.

    Ro & Brady

    Posted by: Rosemarie at February 8, 2007 3:58 PM

    ###
    Joan
    I pulled away for awhile...but you can count on me!!I have been lurking here to read the comments and I usually say a daily goodnight to our "Kahuna"... Alex.

    I haven't seen Dora Crow...has she been around??

    Posted by: D'Anne in the beautiful foothills of the Smokies at February 8, 2007 4:00 PM


    http://www.equine-heaven.com/


    There is the link all. Well, you can cut and paste that into your url if you can't click on it. :-)

    Love to all and love and kisses and hugs and scratches to my sweetie, Barbaro. Miss you still very much honey!

    Lisa

    Posted by: Lisa at February 8, 2007 4:01 PM

    Equine Heaven


    I am really dumb with these so don't be mad if it doesn't work.

    Ro & Brady

    Posted by: Rosemarie at February 8, 2007 4:01 PM

    What delightful news about Mr. Harry Aleo and Smokey Stover. I wonder if Smokey did get a little 'push'?

    For Ferdinand and Exceller, and the next 100,000, we will stay focused.

    In the name of our beloved Barbaro.

    Grow Family Grow (Verna1)

    Posted by: Margie at February 8, 2007 4:01 PM

    Thank you Rosemarie,
    I love it!

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 4:08 PM

    ####
    D'Anne...
    Like all of us...we are all working through pain and grief...but it is family here...with love..welcome back.
    No, have not seen Dora or Mary S....and I miss her prayers.

    GRIEF IS THE PRICE YOU PAY WHEN YOU LOVE...

    and this is so true...in all of our lives..

    Posted by: JOAN ROYA at February 8, 2007 4:09 PM

    Nina sent us a nice prayer this morning.

    Dora was here last week.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 4:11 PM

    I live here near Dallas, Texas and I am ashamed of what our state has done to these beautiful animals. I am posting a website regarding the slaughter house here in Kaufman, Texas (which is called Dallas Crown). This website was created by a lady named Mary Nash, who lived in Kaufman, and who fought to end horse slaughter until her death. Her website is still updated with loads of information - some of it very graphic. And I could be posting a website here that everyone has already seen, but if not, it is worth checking out. Since she lived right near the slaughter house, she has been able to obtain so much information regarding horse slaughter. Some of the information is graphic, unfortunately. I just hope this helps motivate everyone to do all we can to end this horrible, senseless, greedy torment upon these beautiful animals. There is NOTHING humane about this. For Barbaro........lets get this thing ended!

    Go to this website which is a short info to what Mary Nash was all about. Then click on her link to horsemeat.

    http://www.kaufmanzoning.net/

    Never give up the fight!

    For the love of Barbaro...........

    Posted by: Margie Clayton at February 8, 2007 4:11 PM

    Thanks for the link to equine heaven. Very nice site, will add to my favorites and follow the The Triple Halo-2007 Celestial Derby-Run for the Rainbows closely. 87 days, this means it is scheduled for the first saturday in may as well, correct? Must put it on my calendar...

    Just one question, why "triple" halo?

    Posted by: Anita MA at February 8, 2007 4:12 PM

    hay JOAN
    We have to send Barbaro to D'Anne's so he can raid her kitchen. ;)

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 4:13 PM

    Dawn,

    I think they got the money needed to save the horses. Last post says they are waiting to hear from Shirley. Someone just kicked in $500!!!

    I'll post again when I know for sure.

    Susan

    Posted by: susan at February 8, 2007 4:15 PM

    Margie Clayton,
    I saw that website. It freaked me out. I will never go there again.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 4:15 PM

    ###
    Renee, are you and Nina out of groceries...
    I have a feeling Barbaro is visiting everyone of us in many beautiful ways...

    Always in our hearts, forever, Barbaro..

    THIS IS BARBARO'S HOUSE...

    Posted by: JOAN ROYA at February 8, 2007 4:16 PM

    ###
    Renee
    He won't find much in my kitchen...I have made a pact with myself ....lose weight!!!! So I threw all the goodies out...I may have a few peppermints, apples and pears though..........correction........
    HAD....... a few peppermints, apples, and pears........was that fast?...I thought that was fast!!! He is known for being FAST!

    Posted by: D'Anne in the beautiful foothills of the Smokies at February 8, 2007 4:17 PM

    Mornin' All!

    As we each begin our busy day, just a few things to keep in mind:

    1. Once, months ago, when we all got bogged down in a myriad of "good ideas," someone mentioned that "when you're up to you a$$ in alligators, it's difficult to remember that your main objective is to drain the swamp."

    Let's remember our FOCUS. Based on yesterday's wonderful recap of the conversation with Mrs. J, "Could (she)have been any clearer about what she wants us to do in her horse's name?" Thanks for that, Friar Tuck!

    Shelley A. and Debra have been our guiding lights on the campaign to end horse slaughter for a long time now. They have insider knowledge that allows us to be a part of a much broader, and more effective, attack on the opposition than can be produced by any of our individual programs.

    Sometimes it's difficult to just follow directions. But, we've come so far. Let's not dillute the process by re-hashing things ("other ways of approaching this issue")that we've already covered.

    Re-post:
    Good Morning FOB's

    How wonderful to see everyone back in the fight to end slaughter. And to see Resolution HRES117 honoring our Barbaro in the House of Representatives!!! I truly believe we are on our way to victory!

    Stephanie is working with Jason Shandler to give us another voice....and a very strong voice at that!! He will be checking this site and I'm sure he'll be impressed with all the hard work by the FOB's

    As of now, our mission remains the same.

    Along with contacting our own representatives (one congressman and two senators), we should also contact the leadership of the following committees and urge them to get their respective bills out of committee and to a vote.

    HR503 is in the Energy & Commerce Committee and in the Agricultural Committee
    S311 is in the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee

    Links to these committees will follow shortly. Special thanks to Socorro and Cheryl for keeping these links going (we are both "blue link challenged!")

    Wouldn't it just be the best thing in the world if we could get this passed before Barbaro's birthday. What a wonderful gift to our champion.

    Shelley and Debra

    Posted by: ShelleyA at February 8, 2007 1:22 PM

    Key words here are: "As of now, our mission remains the same." Directions are simple. Let's just DO THE DEAL! Our concerted effort WILL make the difference!

    2. Also, PLEASE note Marilyn ?CA's remarks from last night.

    Re-post:
    There is a lot of great energy on the board, but please don't lose sight of the fact that we have been asked to call legislators. Last time around, the national organizers preferred to handle the national media, and that may be the preference this time as well. I'm not saying you can't write to your favorite journalist -- just that it is not our job to organize anything in the way of orchestrated contacts to national media, and, as Friar Tuck notes, in can backfire.

    Speaking of fire, I know you are all kidding and that the "burn" image is metaphorical and refers only to our own feverish activity against horse slaughter...so please...no jokes about burning the slaughterhouses. These are inappropriate and might be considered inciteful. This is Tim and Alex's site, and we need to be respectful and not cause problems for them.

    Posted by: Marilyn/CA at February 8, 2007 12:34 AM

    References to violence are just the fodder the opposition is looking for to declare us "terrorists." Don't give them any opportunities. Keep it COOL!!!

    3. Along with HR 117, there is also SR 27 honoring Barbaro and his connections. (See UPENN site) We have a lot going for us right now. Let's maximize the potential as we make our calls.

    BELIEVE

    Posted by: annie in TX at February 8, 2007 4:18 PM

    ## Thoroughbred Times has a limited supply of a special issue "Remembering Barbaro." Don't know if this has been posted but I just ordered one by calling 888 499-9090 Ext. 2, they are $6.95.

    Hope everyone has a successful day calling to get the horror houses shut down. We will not let Mrs. Jackson or Barbaro down.

    Great article from Old Friends about the needed responsibility from owners and breeders. I have very good friends who have their mares at Three Chimneys and breed to Point Given, Rahy, Wild Again, etc. and I know some of their horses are running in $4000 claiming races and maybe in danger of being sent to slaughter. I have sat in their owners box at Breeders Cup and Saratoga and find it extremely sad that once the horses are claimed or sold they are "out of sight, out of mind." I sincerely hope the spirit of Barbaro can make people realize these horses are a lifetime committment from birth.

    Barb m in Florida

    Posted by: Barb m in Florida at February 8, 2007 4:18 PM

    ####

    We all know Barbaro has SPEED!!!!

    God Bless Mary Nash...and the Fallen Angels...

    No stone will not be unturned....the Barbaro Bill will be passed...and we will find happy homes...for the horses and all animals large or small.

    Posted by: JOAN ROYA at February 8, 2007 4:19 PM

    I agree that the anti-slaughter bill must be past and named in Barbaro's honor. However, due to a 60 hour work week, I haven't been able to keep up with ways to support this. Could someone (or Alex) please post (probably for the tenth time - my apologies) the specific steps we need to do to get the bill passed?

    Also, we need to consider ways to get laminitis and research into causes and cures onto the general public's radar screen. This usually means getting someone with a high public profile to serve as a champion. (Think Marlo Thomas for St. Jude's and Michael J. Fox for Parkinson's.) Who has connections to a well recognized public figure with an interest in equine welfare?

    Finally, on a personal note, having grown up on a small farm and having had two horses along with many other animals euthanized for health reasons, I know the hole in the heart that is left afterwards. However, the only way out of the pain is through the pain. May all those involved in Barbaro's care be comforted during this grieving time, and may those now bittersweet memories become just sweet ones soon.

    Posted by: cindy at February 8, 2007 4:24 PM

    I keep thinking about a lovely article I read months ago. It was about the way Barbaro was raised -- with a little group of four or five young horses. The article said there is some risk to raising thoroughbreds this way -- the risk of injury is higher -- but the Jacksons wanted Barbaro to have a normal horse life as a youngster.

    Barbaro was the natural leader of this little band.

    You can see a picture of them, and him, in the Run for the Roses video...if you can bear watching it right now.

    Anyway, I keep thinking of the days when Barbaro was allowed to establish himself as the head of his little herd. So he always had that leader persona.

    When the herd is endangered, the leader leads them to safety.

    It's interesting that this has become Barbaro's role -- to lead all horses in America to safety, through the slaughter ban, safer tracks, retirement for thoroughbreds...

    I think of his spirit, leading all of us, as if he were flying out ahead of us with his mane and tail streaming.

    I think of his anger and his anguish as he sees horses whom he cannot yet save, still being led to slaughter.

    Most of all, I think of him in a huge, green valley, leading a running herd of horses -- hundreds of thousands of horses, the horses who were slaughered. The spiritual energy they generate as their hooves thunder down this heavenly valley is the energy that motivates us to work in his name. Barbaro, the leader.

    Posted by: Marilyn/CA at February 8, 2007 4:26 PM

    I just pre-ordered Sean Clancy's book that will be out April 5th for $19.95 - Barbaro: The Horse Who Captured America's Heart. It was out on The Blood Horse Inc - Exclusively Equine.com - I can't wait to get my copy as it also has 100+ color photos. Mel Dundon

    Posted by: Mel Dundon at February 8, 2007 4:26 PM

    Correct me if I am wrong, but it is my understanding that these slaughter houses are owned by foreign interests? None of them are owned by American companies. What the heck? Wouldn\'t there be some way to attack them from the fact that they are foreign interests? I mean all the emotional issues aside, it just seems wrong that these are foreign companies are in here doing this? Than I wonder that if horse slaughter was made illegal, would these companies still get away with it because they are foreign? Diplomatic immunity, etc.?

    Posted by: Kitty in SC at February 8, 2007 4:30 PM

    D'Anne,
    His favorites peppermints, apples and pears. They will be gone.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 4:30 PM

    Kitty yes owned by Belgium co. when we get the bill pass, they will be out of here!

    Posted by: Debbie L.A. at February 8, 2007 4:33 PM

    Good morning, Champ. If this horrible pain is the price of loving you, well, I'll just deal with it because you are worth every tear, every lump in my chest and every wish that we could just go back in time a little and alter one little misstep.

    Ah, well, that's not to be, and you have certainly done more for us and for your fellow equines in your brief stay on this earth than any or all of the others. Thank you, Barbaro, for the time you shared with us mortals. You showed me that miracles do happen.

    I love you, and I miss you terribly.

    Posted by: Mary Allen at February 8, 2007 4:33 PM

    Cindy
    Please call your own senators and your congressman and urge them to co-sponsor the bills, if they have not yet done so. A simple, polite call is fine.

    Also, call the heads of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the House Agricultural Committee, and the Senate Commerce Committee, urging them to move their bill to the floor for a vote.

    Blue links will, hopefully, follow for all of this, but that is the current plan.

    Thanks for all your efforts!

    Posted by: Marilyn/CA at February 8, 2007 4:33 PM

    Mel,
    All three Barbaro books can be pre-ordered on Amazon.com also.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 4:34 PM

    Does anybody know what's up with Hillary? I posed the question earlier. I'm not very impressed with anyone who ventures on both sides of the fence. Could it be that her Presidential campaign will focus on the Ag vote and remaining neutral on this issue?

    Posted by: cathy potter/california at February 8, 2007 4:35 PM

    Alex that made me smile thank you!!! "oh crap" as they came by me ... they soon regained control)

    Posted by: Debbie L.A. at February 8, 2007 4:35 PM

    Cindy, you are not alone. I too would like a "cheat sheet" of specific steps we can do to support the anti slaughter bill.

    Can a link or page (I don't know if link is the proper term to use here) be added to the left side of the site here with the info we need to help support the cause?

    I know many who post here (like Friar Tuck) offer great suggestions. It would be nice if everything could be summarized on its own page. I too work many hours and have limited time to sort through all the messages. I read what I can, and wipe away tears as I do so.

    Same with the ideas that pop up to give gifts for specific causes. I've missed out on several opportunities to give as part of the FOB group. I understand many ideas are posted in another area here- a message board, but it would be nice to have a summary - a page dedicated to just that.

    I hope you catch this suggestion Alex. I'm trying to create more work for you, just trying to help everyone who works or otherwise can't spend a lot of time searching through the messages. We want to help wherever possible.

    Thank you!!
    Candy in MN.

    Posted by: Candy at February 8, 2007 4:36 PM

    Candy and everyone

    Re-post:
    Good Morning FOB's

    How wonderful to see everyone back in the fight to end slaughter. And to see Resolution HRES117 honoring our Barbaro in the House of Representatives!!! I truly believe we are on our way to victory!

    Stephanie is working with Jason Shandler to give us another voice....and a very strong voice at that!! He will be checking this site and I'm sure he'll be impressed with all the hard work by the FOB's

    As of now, our mission remains the same.

    Along with contacting our own representatives (one congressman and two senators), we should also contact the leadership of the following committees and urge them to get their respective bills out of committee and to a vote.

    HR503 is in the Energy & Commerce Committee and in the Agricultural Committee
    S311 is in the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee

    Links to these committees will follow shortly. Special thanks to Socorro and Cheryl for keeping these links going (we are both "blue link challenged!")

    Wouldn't it just be the best thing in the world if we could get this passed before Barbaro's birthday. What a wonderful gift to our champion.

    Shelley and Debra

    Posted by: ShelleyA at February 8, 2007 1:22 PM

    Posted by: Marilyn/CA at February 8, 2007 4:37 PM

    ###
    Cindy A
    Are you asking broadly, or are you asking what we individually are being asked to do? This answer
    (repost Debra, WI and ShelleyA) is to the second question:

    Along with contacting our own representatives (one congressman and two senators), we should also contact the leadership of the following committees and urge them to get their respective bills out of committee and to a vote.

    HR503 is in the Energy & Commerce Committee and in the Agricultural Committee
    S311 is in the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee

    Links to these committees will follow shortly. Special thanks to Socorro and Cheryl for keeping these links going (we are both "blue link challenged!")

    -----------------------
    Lastly, inviting friends and relatives to contact their legislators as well..

    Cheers,
    Friar Tuck

    Posted by: Friar Tuck at February 8, 2007 4:38 PM

    Renee and Joan ... This may sound "nuts," but I think Barbaro came to visit me last night. I woke in the middle of the night, missing him. I immediately asked him to please send me a sign, any sign, that he was okay. I started to fall back to sleep when I felt something "brush" gently across my forehead (I always kiss my Beanie Baby on the forehead). I thought maybe it was my cat, but he was alseep in the other room. It felt kind of like Barbaro was brushing me on the forehead with that velvety nose of his. Maybe ??? Do I need to call the "men in the white coats???"

    Posted by: Ruth Stacey at February 8, 2007 4:38 PM

    Video...BARBARO THE LEGEND...another beautifully made...the sequence of pics to the music...the words of the song...more tears.
    BARBARO IS ALIVE AND WELL IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER!
    Alex , happy to know Hawty is doing well and though cold you had a good morning.

    Jenny

    Posted by: Jenny Estripeaut at February 8, 2007 4:41 PM

    Alex,
    You have me laughing.Sounds like a wild morning, Hawty Creek sounds like a character. Hold those reins tight

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 4:42 PM

    ###
    MARILYN/CA - your 4:26 pm post was just visually beautiful - thanks for sharing it!

    Posted by: Nancy in CT at February 8, 2007 4:43 PM

    Hey Guys....I visited MARY NASH'S site and, I found it to be a treasure trove of information.

    This lady, evidently, lived near the plant and spent her last breath fighting against HORSE SLAUGHTER...

    Her site includes the tax records for BELTEX (I am guessing the name derives from BELGIUM/TEXAS)...along with KILL BUYERS LISTS...
    PRICES...and, yes, some not so nice pictures of horses involved in a transportation accident on their way to slaughter...

    I mention these things because this really makes the issue real for me...I know how strange that sounds, but there in black and white is the paperwork behind this operation as well as photographic evidence. The facts we have been told were NOT just dreamed up by someone, somewhere. IT IS THE TRUTH...

    A photo of the pens holding the horses for slaughter is surreal to me...In the foreground are these beautiful horses..then the plant (a real dive if there ever was one) and what looks like an auto shop or gas station in the background...There is a lady sitting on a chair or outdoor table as if life was just going on as usual...unaware(or not?) of the slaughter below...

    The more I see and the more I dig...The more I get the feeling that everyone involved in this SLAUGHTER BUSINESS are just plain TRASH. I simply don't know how else to put it.

    As if the SLAUGHTER isn't enough, when the HORSES are INJURED (Gosh the picture was awful...warning)
    in transport...NOTHING SEEMS TO BE DONE in this case...unlike the MO HORSES which were rescued. IF YOU WERE TO HAPPEN UPON AN ACCIDENT IN WHICH HORSES WERE INJURED, ANY NORMAL PERSON WOULD CALL A VET!....THESE PEOPLE JUST STUFF THEM BACK IN THE TRANSPORT AND SEND THEM ON THEIR WAY!!!
    GOOD LORD...WHAT IS OUR COUNTRY DOING IN ALLOWING THIS...? WHO or WHAT HAVE WE BECOME?

    GUYS...MAKE THOSE CALLS...Not only are they slaughtering the horses, but they ABUSE THEM UNMERCIFULLY in their last days in getting them there and in holding them prior to actual SLAUGHTER...

    IT IS ENOUGH TO MAKE YOU CRY...I HOPE IT IS ENOUGH TO MAKE YOU CALL...


    Here is a quote from MARY NASH...Remember she lived nearby the S/H...

    "People lie. And for so many years they’ve been lying about this horse slaughter plant. They’ve been saying, 'Oh, all the horses over there are old and sick and crippled.' Well that’s not right. They’re just saying that so that nobody will question what they do." Mary Nash, from "Blood Country...a Texas Shame."


    Indeed, if the horses any are injured...it was probably from transport..

    PLEASE, CALL...THIS IS PITIFUL!

    Posted by: Pamela at February 8, 2007 4:43 PM

    ###3

    Alex...thanks for sharing...We are proud of both of you, Hawty Creek...stay warm...

    Posted by: JOAN ROYA at February 8, 2007 4:44 PM

    Sorry about the lenghty post...thank you for indulging me...I AM JUST SO TICKED OFF...forgive me...

    Posted by: Pamela at February 8, 2007 4:46 PM

    ####
    Big doings in Equine Heaven.
    Susan E would be most interested...

    Cheers,
    FT

    Posted by: Friar Tuck at February 8, 2007 4:46 PM

    Ruth,
    Don't share that one. Those men in the white suits are a bit crazy themselves.But...it could be fun.

    I believe he is here with us. He knew the love and he now knows who sent it.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 4:46 PM

    Thank you for providing the links to articles, videos, etc. The last two articles, by Tim Layden of SI and Phoebe Kate Foster, were fantastic. In a world of spoiled, overpaid, cynical, and all to often criminal athletes, it's no wonder so many of us gravitated towards and rooted for such a spectacular and gallant champion. He was taken too soon, but I suppose the Lord had an empty stall in His stable to fill with the best we had to give! God bless you and thanks for all the work you put into this site.

    Posted by: Steve Buxton at February 8, 2007 4:48 PM

    Well, the fact these slaughter houses are owned by foreign interests just \"frosts my cookies\". I am so anti-foreign interest anything because of the loss of jobs overseas (but that is another topic).

    I have wrote a letter to each of our senators (South Carolina) and made calls. Spoke to a staffer in DeMint\'s office (one of the Senate bill\'s sponsors) locally here in Greenville and get the impression that the Equine Practitioners and bigger breed associations (AQHA in particular) being against this legislation is really hurting it.

    Posted by: Kitty in SC at February 8, 2007 4:49 PM

    Pamie,
    You have every right to be upset. I visited that site it is sickening. This country needs a good spanking for being so ignorant to this issue. Your rants are very educational. Take a big breath.

    Hugs to you.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 4:50 PM

    Thank you SOOOO MUCH, KITTY...This has just got to stop! These operations and the people behind them are just cruel and heartless...AND GREEDY

    Posted by: Pamela at February 8, 2007 4:50 PM

    Renee ... I know it sounds crazy, but the spiritual world comes to us in many forms. I can't tell you how many times I wake at exactly 4:12 a.m. in the morning. 4/12 is my deceased sister's birthday. I always take it as a sign that she is letting me know that she is with me!

    Posted by: Ruth Stacey at February 8, 2007 4:51 PM

    Pamela,

    I feel the same way. That is why I posted it here. Although it is heart wrenching, I was hoping it would help those see, who don't realize, just how inhumane this all is. There is tons of information on that website that could be helpful.

    I hope I did not offend anyone with it. My only intention was to help show how real this thing is and how important it is that we fight it with everything we have inside us.

    Posted by: Margie Clayton at February 8, 2007 4:52 PM

    Thanks, Renee...speaking of breaths...I hope your ASTHMA is OK...I swear...I don't know how you guys make it through this stuff...

    Yesterday, I cried over poor DR DEAN...and, today,
    we have THIS HOUSE OF HORRORS!

    I think maybe you should pass around your inhaler!

    Posted by: Pamela at February 8, 2007 4:53 PM

    House Committee on Agriculture
    1301 Longworth House Office Building
    Washington, DC 20515

    Phone: 202-225-2171
    Fax: 202-225-8510

    Email: agriculture@mail.house.gov

    Posted by: Debbie L.A. at February 8, 2007 4:54 PM

    It is real and it is happening...Thank you, MARGIE...I honestly didn't realize that I NEEDED THAT SLAP IN THE FACE!

    Posted by: Pamela at February 8, 2007 4:54 PM

    Ruth,
    I believe in spirit and what you said about your sister. Trust me you are NOT crazy.

    Pamie,
    The TRASH does not pay taxes either, and our stupid governor wants to rais the incom tax.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 4:55 PM

    Alex,

    Ordered your first book recommendation from Amazon. Looking forward to the next. Hope it helps, and it will help educate me -- my thanks.

    Sending off a note to Dr. R today and the Jacksons tomorrow. I needed the time in between to take the edge off a little.

    Sending letters to my Pennsylvania reps and senators who have NOT co-sponsored the "Barbaro Bill" and my support and congrats to those who have supported it.

    Cannot wait for the PA Horse Museum, or for there to be someplace to go to pay respects to Barbaro.

    Mobilized, but still missing the Big Boss Horse !

    Alex, please let us know about the Dr. R and Jeannine interview.

    LOVE hearing about your morning and Hawty Creek -- can we have more pics of the lovely lady?

    Posted by: Karen, PA at February 8, 2007 4:55 PM

    New Update at: www.equine-heaven.com

    Posted by: Equine Heaven at February 8, 2007 4:56 PM

    Good Morning Barbaro - I love you.

    Still missing him terribly.

    Good Morning all of Barbaro Nation - have a great day!

    Posted by: Debbie Singer at February 8, 2007 4:57 PM

    I miss him. I miss his presence. What a racehorse and what an individual. What I rest on is this: Barbaro's purpose was bigger than racing, bigger than breeding. His purpose most liekly goes beyond our understanding at this point in time. That said- I still miss him.

    Posted by: Greg at February 8, 2007 4:58 PM

    Has everyone signed the petition at:

    http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/159614943

    Posted by: Kitty in SC at February 8, 2007 4:59 PM

    Pamie,
    Here is the inhaler...catch.

    I'm doing OK.

    Dr.Dean is just making me feel so bad. I wish I could just give him a hug. He is so special.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 5:00 PM

    Thanks Alex for the updates. (was wondering if the SI magazine had articles also. will check)

    Here is a good article (sorry no blue..) about Kennett Florist

    Kennett Florist carries on Barbaro effect

    An excerpt:

    She even made a special trip Christmas Eve, when her shop is usually closed, "to make sure Barbaro and all the other horses had enough treats to last the holiday."
    The other horses Berstler mentioned are the research and donor horses, which the Maniacs have also taken under their wing with gifts and messages of love. Berstler said that Libby, the vet who takes care of the research horses, tears up every time a basket is delivered to those horses.
    Care and treats to New Bolton's research horses are just another part of the Barbaro effect that the Kennett Florist has helped create.
    "He [Barbaro] may have run for the roses, but he ran in our hearts," Berstler said

    Posted by: lynnette at February 8, 2007 5:00 PM

    ###

    Pamela, your video was just beautiful. I finally got up the nerve to watch it last night. Some of those shots are absolutely breaktaking.

    Thank you for sharing it with us.

    Posted by: Jane in CT at February 8, 2007 5:02 PM

    RENEE; Write him a letter or card or something. It is great therapy! I did it and it made me feel better.

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri in SE Texas at February 8, 2007 5:03 PM

    Senate committee on
    Connerce, science and transportation

    Contact Information for the Committee

    Public Information Office
    202-224-5115

    Full Committee Office
    Majority: 202-224-0411
    Minority: 202-224-1251

    Press Office
    Majority: 202-224-4546
    Minority: 202-224-3991

    Aviation Operations, Safety, and Security Subcommittee
    Majority: 202-224-9000
    Minority: 202-224-5184

    Consumer Affairs, Insurance, and Automotive Safety Subcommittee
    Majority: 202-224-1270
    Minority: 202-224-5183

    Interstate Commerce, Trade, and Tourism Subcommittee
    Majority: 202-224-1270
    Minority: 202-224-5183

    Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries, and Coast Guard Subcommittee
    Majority: 202-224-4912
    Minority: 202-224-8172

    Science, Technology, and Innovation Subcommittee
    Majority: 202-224-0415
    Minority: 202-224-4852


    Space, Aeronautics, and Related Sciences Subcommittee
    Majority: 202-224-0415
    Minority: 202-224-4852

    Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety, and Security
    Majority: 202-224-9000
    Minority: 202-224-4852

    Has anyone got the name to contact? Who do we need to talk too??????????????

    Posted by: Debbie L.A. at February 8, 2007 5:06 PM

    #### Equine Heaven - wow, 35. Looks like there will be a "thundering herd".:)

    Posted by: Anita MA at February 8, 2007 5:06 PM

    Lynda,
    I will do that.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 5:06 PM

    Hi everyone, maybe we can't make the trip to NBC, so why don't we focus our trip on Washington DC and let the Senators know how we feel. For the ones making the trip to NBC, is is just a little more east?

    Any ideas!!!!!!!!!!

    That would be the great way to Honor Barbaro.

    Posted by: Carol Nichols at February 8, 2007 5:07 PM

    Just read Equine Heaven updates, this site is wonderful! So sorry to hear about Felix, but now he's healthy and happy, and apparently with Barbaro! How great is that?!! But I does remind me of my loss of my China cat to kidney failure last fall, maybe she' there too!

    Alex
    Thank you for all the links, really looking forward to Jeanine's interview with Dr. R.

    Bobby
    Still missing you so, can't believe you're gone. Now you are happy and healthy, what a magnificent horse you are ....

    Posted by: Susan in TX at February 8, 2007 5:08 PM

    Wow, that "Oh, crap!" uttered by the rider of the horse getting away with him, made us chuckle today! My favorite mounts are off-the-track Thoroughbreds (I've had 3 so far), and no matter how long it's been since they've set a hoof on a track, the love of running never seems to leave them! You get to practice the "emergency halt" a lot on the trails, and you discover that being run away with isn't so bad. And, just for a moment, you get a taste of what a jockey feels every day. LOVE those little stories! Thanks!

    Posted by: Donna Beth Weilenman at February 8, 2007 5:10 PM

    ###

    More tears with Equine Heaven...and Felix the mascot...beautiful...

    Are we sending or someone sending treats for the donor horses for Valentine's day or has this been done.

    Like I posted earlier...REPONSIBILITY...OWNERS OF ALL PETS...
    Finding coats in Houston, Texas with dog and cat fur...choked me..and now Mrs. Nash's written notes...and I am sure the Fallen Angels could tell us lots more...GOD REST THEIR SOULS IN EQUINE HEAVEN.

    Posted by: JOAN ROYA at February 8, 2007 5:11 PM

    hello FOB's - just checking in. Crazy at work and I was not able to say hello yesterday from home either.

    GREAT article on Kennett Florist !

    See Lynnett's link a few posts up!

    Posted by: chris byers at February 8, 2007 5:11 PM

    Has anyone else seen this nice article on Kennett Florist?


    Hope its worthwile. Stay warm and safe. It was -7 (regular temp) this morning in Chic.

    Posted by: Nancy at February 8, 2007 5:12 PM

    Hi Chris!

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 5:12 PM

    A nice article on KF

    Kennett Florist


    Ro & Brady


    Posted by: Rosemarie at February 8, 2007 5:12 PM

    Question?


    What are RESEARCH horses at NBC. Donor horses? I hope nothing bad like experiments.

    Love and Kisses Barbaro!

    Posted by: LLeslie In Oklahoma at February 8, 2007 5:15 PM

    Susan, I am very sorry about Felix's passing on.

    Thank you to Equine Heaven where he is the mascot. Every barn needs a barn cat and I will think of him "pigging out" along side of Seattle Slew.

    Posted by: chris byers at February 8, 2007 5:15 PM

    "(and one horse running off with its rider, I was alerted to this when I heard someone holla "oh crap" as they came by me ... "

    Thanks, Alex, for a good, much needed laugh (the description, not the actual situation!).

    Good morning to my angels.

    Good morning, Barbaro Nation. Will catch up on posts later and get busy with politicking.

    Posted by: Susan E. at February 8, 2007 5:16 PM

    LLeslie
    Donor horses give blood if another horse needs it.

    Posted by: Debbie L.A. at February 8, 2007 5:18 PM

    EVERYBODY OK IN UPSTATE NEW YORK? Just saw on my local news that parts of the area have had SIX FEET OF SNOW...with more to come! Barbaro and spirit horse buddies...are you jumping up and down on those clouds again? You are all so big and strong that the clouds are shredding and dumping lots of snow down here...

    Posted by: Nancy in CT at February 8, 2007 5:18 PM

    Debbie L.A.

    Ok on donor horses. What are research horses?

    Love and Kisses Barbaro!

    Posted by: LLeslie In Oklahoma at February 8, 2007 5:20 PM

    Nancy,
    That is Barbaro letting all his FOB's in NY know he knows where they are. He really has to stop rolling around so much and scratching his back.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 5:21 PM

    ####From an earlier post:

    "Also, we need to consider ways to get laminitis and research into causes and cures onto the general public's radar screen. This usually means getting someone with a high public profile to serve as a champion. (Think Marlo Thomas for St. Jude's and Michael J. Fox for Parkinson's.) Who has connections to a well recognized public figure with an interest in equine welfare?"

    What better champions do we have than Dr. Richardson, Edgar Prado, Michael Matz, the Jacksons? All are truly "public" figures now BEYOND the horse racing public.

    Posted by: Dawn in Omaha at February 8, 2007 5:22 PM

    #### LLeslie in Oklahoma - I think they are horses kept by New Bolton for blood transfusions which may be needed in equine surgery. I may be wrong, but I think that's it.

    Posted by: Anita MA at February 8, 2007 5:22 PM

    OH, NO...LESLIE IN OK...The Donor Horses, as I understand it, supply blood for transfusions during surgery...

    It fascinated me to learn that they are treated like Royalty...Since their blood is being used...Their health must be EXCEPTIONAL...Extra good food and vitamins and lots of quality grazing time right on the NBC property.

    They save many horses lives, and , in return, are spoiled rotten by NBC, and their special caretaker (I forget the Lady's name...so sorry)...
    KENNETT FLORISTS takes tons of special treats to them because they are so special and so loved....

    Posted by: Pamela at February 8, 2007 5:23 PM

    LLeslie
    RESEARCH horses at NBC. know they have a hurd of mini. Horses there. Doing some kind of breeding research on them. Think it's on there site about this program.

    Posted by: Debbie L.A. at February 8, 2007 5:25 PM

    ######
    Susan E.

    Hope you are feeling a little better. Check www.equine-heaven.com it might interest you today.

    Ro & Brady

    Posted by: Rosemarie at February 8, 2007 5:25 PM

    Alex,

    Your description of the runaway horse and rider made me chuckle. I've been there a few times myself.

    Thanks again Alex for this site!

    On the topic of the anti-slaughter bill, maybe we should force everyone on the agriculture committee to view the House of Horrors and then remind these people a resolution was passed for a horse.

    Posted by: marie from atl at February 8, 2007 5:25 PM

    #### Nancy in CT - That was cute. Saw that upstate NY snow on my local TV too. And they're getting MORE SNOW!!!!

    Here near Boston we've only had about maybe one inch of snow this winter. Unbelievable! Haven't had to shovel at all!!! The least snow I've seen in this area, but this week it's been what I call brutally cold, hate it. I'd trade this cold for just a little snow, I think.

    Posted by: Anita MA at February 8, 2007 5:27 PM

    marie from atl
    Good point!

    Posted by: Debbie L.A. at February 8, 2007 5:29 PM

    DAWN IN OMAHA...I nominate DR DEAN....I heard thru the grapevine that he said it was the laminitis that did in Barbaro...His broken bones fused properly and, had it not been for the laminitis which appear in July, he would have had an early and pain free release from NBC...

    I HATE THAT D**NED DISEASE!!! and, considering my mood today, I WOULD LOVE TO KNOCK IT OFF THE FACE OF THE EARTH!

    phew...*using Renee's inhaler*

    Posted by: Pamela at February 8, 2007 5:29 PM

    Good Afternoon,
    Alex, thanks for the heads-up on Jeannine Edward's interview with Dr. Richardson -
    I'm sure it was very emotional for both of them.

    As always, this a great website,I will be a fan for life..

    Barbaro, alwaysand forever in our hearts.,,,,,

    Posted by: Anne, NH at February 8, 2007 5:30 PM

    Thanks FOB for the info on Donor and research horses. I knew the donor was for blood but was not sure about research horses.

    Love and Kisses Barbaro!

    Posted by: LLeslie In Oklahoma at February 8, 2007 5:32 PM

    I heard thru the grapevine that he said it was the laminitis that did in Barbaro

    Pamie,
    Dr.Wonderful said it to the public.

    "He did not have a good leg to stand on".

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 5:35 PM

    Ruth -
    If the men in the white coats come for you, they will be coming for a lot of us as well. I've had and read others' experiences lately and something is definitely happening. I heard hoof beats in my house the other day... I told my husband, he just LOOKED at me, but he knows me and "gets" me, thank goodness. But I heard them. Sounds like Barbaro gave you a kiss for sure.

    Posted by: Pam M at February 8, 2007 5:37 PM

    Thank you Marilyn/CA, Shelley A and Friar Tuck and others....

    (ps- Love you Big Guy in the Heavens).

    Posted by: Candy at February 8, 2007 5:40 PM

    Another article on Barbaro for those of you, like me, can't read enough articles on Barbaro:
    http://ezinearticles.com/?Farewell-Barbaro&id=436862

    Posted by: Anita MA at February 8, 2007 5:41 PM

    ###
    ANITA MA - my son & daughter-in-law both work in Boston (Copley Square) and they are thrilled with the lack of snow...although they'd love to have some on the weekends when they are at home.

    This has been one strange winter...

    Posted by: Nancy in CT at February 8, 2007 5:51 PM

    The site in Mary Nash's name does contain a lot of material that seems to be available elsewhere. Among other things, they've done more than anyone else, I think, to pull together court documents pertaining to the slaughterhouses. Their site always comes up when I search for opinions, etc. -- although these do not seem to be directly accessible through the site from my server.

    Posted by: Marilyn/CA at February 8, 2007 5:55 PM

    unavailable elsewhere, I meant.

    Posted by: Marilyn/CA at February 8, 2007 5:55 PM

    Dear Friends:

    Before I go to bed, I always look up at the sky hoping to see the Big Guy. Last night, was the lucky night.

    I saw Barbaro jumping over the moon. Back and Forth. Back and Forth. Higher and Higher...

    I called out to him, "Hay, Champ! Whatcha doin'?

    "I'm praktisssssing," he replied.

    It turs out that our Baby Boy, Barbaro Dynaformer Jackson, has been the subject of some good natured ribbing at the Heavenly Turf Club--Celestial Equine Saloon.

    Retired show jumpers and steeple chase horses would often let forth with "Barbaro, we know you can run, but can the boy jump?

    Barbaro would always reply, "Ladies and Gentlemen, I spent more time in the air than you have! But,let's put it to the test!"

    More to come...

    Love you, Big Bay One, now and forever...

    Love to all who grace this board.

    Praise the Lord and Pass the Carrots,

    Lillian Petroff

    Posted by: Lillian Petroff at February 8, 2007 5:56 PM

    #Nancy in CT - Yea, I know how they feel, sometimes the snow softens the scenery, especially on the first day, it glistens in the sun... I have such mixed feelings about winter.

    Posted by: Anita MA at February 8, 2007 5:58 PM

    It's true that laminitis is the "scurge of the earth" for horses. Ultimately his injury was the thing that set it all in motion.

    Posted by: Bonnie MacRaith at February 8, 2007 6:00 PM

    Lillian Petroff,
    That was just glorious! What a great visual I have in my head. Thank you.

    Much love to my forever hero, the one and only Barbaro.

    Posted by: Amy A in NJ - Forever Fan of Barbaro at February 8, 2007 6:01 PM

    Leslie in MN,

    Regarding your statement earlier about not handicapping any longer and just watching the horses before the race; I read a book some time ago (publ. 1980) by Bonnie Ledbetter (what’s in a name?!?) and Tom Ainslie, "The Body Language of Horses", where she does the exact same thing. She "reads" the horses just before the race, than places her bets on what the horses tell her. Of course, pedigree and experience is still a factor, but most important is how the horse feels that day. She’s had quite some success! Amazon.com still offers this book if anyone is interested.

    Posted by: Stefanie J from Virginia Beach at February 8, 2007 6:02 PM

    Bonnie; Yes, it IS the scourge of the earth. His injury would have healed just fine and he would be still alive if it wasnt for laminitis. All it takes is too much weight on one foot to set it off.

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri in SE Texas at February 8, 2007 6:03 PM

    Hello - I'm trying to find out more about anything Dr. Richardson has said recently. I can't find anything. I think of him every day and wonder how he is doing. Has anyone heard anything?

    Posted by: Weese at February 8, 2007 6:03 PM

    ###
    LLeslie,
    I don't know about New Bolton, but most, if not all, vet scchools perform research on new drugs, treatments, etc. I know our local vet school has 30-50 research horses (not including the ones involved in the repro program). These horses are very well treated/cared for and never made to be excessive pain for the sake of a particular study (when their condition can not be managed or other problems arrise, they are humanely euthanized). They are involved in research on everything from development of new products(a study was done here recently on varoius sport boots -- lots of treadmill time) to treatments for various ailments (horses are brought in that already have these problems -- EPM, chronic laminitis, cushings disease, arthritis, the list goes on -- and they are used in treatment studies).
    On the surface, I see where this can sound bad, but it is necessary to create new ways of treating different injuries, illnesses, and other impairments. Most of the horses in the research programs were donated by owners who were at the end of their ropes in treating the animals. Entering a research program like those at many vet schools is often a last ditch effort to avoid having to euthanize and animal with a chronic condition.
    Again, I AM NOT speaking specifically to the New Bolton research horses, I don't know what their program involves, this may be way off from their's. This is just based on what I have learned from many vet and vet student friends.

    Posted by: JenM in Ok at February 8, 2007 6:04 PM

    >a href=>http://www.tbfriends.com/">jo at tbfriends

    Posted by: Debbie Jones at February 8, 2007 6:07 PM

    Hi everyone:
    The anti-slaughter booklet is ready and available on the National Equine Rescue Coalition website.
    The booklet is being distributed through many organizations including the armed services. And our Canada connections have been using the booklet for a few weeks.
    The idea behind this booklet is to put as much anti-slaughter info into one easy access spot. One of the features is the point-counterpoint section. We list pro-slaughter arguments and our counterpoint to those arguments.
    You can download the whole booklet or copy/paste what you feel is necessary. Both my senators have the booklet and aides from both offices said it has been helpful. So please, in our continued efforts in supporting the HSUS, please call your senators and representatives (if not on board yet) and tell them you are sending them information. Don't ask if you can send info, kindly tell them you are sending it. The pro-slaughter people are working the aides. We must do the same.
    The HSUS has been reviewing the booklet and following is a statement of support from them.

    I wanted to get back to you with some preliminary feedback. First of all, wow! What amazing work y'all have done - thank you! You have taken a very complicated and multi-layered issue and laid out all of the dynamics of the horse slaughter situation in the United States today.

    Unfortunately, many Americans, including many elected officials, do not understand (or have not even heard of) the slaughtering of American horses for human consumption. Once folks understand the issue - and your booklet is very helpful in this aspect - people can take action to stop this dirty little secret from continuing.
    People can call their legislators in Washington, DC; they can write letters to the editor of their local paper; they can tell their friends & families about this inhumanity that is perpetrated on these precious and historic beings.
    We must stop the slaughter today!

    Thank you for all your great work!

    Kelley Dupps
    Grassroots Outreach Coordinator -- HSUS Government Affairs

    Let's support the HSUS. Once again,call your representatives and senators, if they are not on board. And provide them with necessary info.

    Following is the link to access the booklet! If you have any problems please e-mail Michelle and she will forward a copy to you!
    Thanks everyone.
    Michelle and Daryl

    nationalequinerescuecoalition.com/links.html

    Sorry! I don't know how to do the blue thingy! I'll have someone get on that!
    Thanks to Lj (jock4hire) for all her hard work on the website. She is extremely creative!

    Posted by: Daryl Smoliak at February 8, 2007 6:07 PM

    ##Ruth, if the men in white coats are coming for you, then they better have a big bus cause there are lots of us that he's been visiting.

    ##Renee, I too feel terribly sad today since I read Dr. Wonderful's words. My heart breaks for him, how I wish it could have been different, oh no, tears again, gotta go.

    Have a good everyone.

    Judy


    Posted by: Judy (Ontario, CA) at February 8, 2007 6:07 PM

    Sorry the blue link didn't work :(

    Posted by: Debbie Jones at February 8, 2007 6:07 PM

    Hello to all !

    Can't stop thinking of Barbaro - he is in my every thought !

    There are so many things we can do in his honor !
    I love all the ideas!

    Barbaro lives on in the hearts of those he touched..his blazing spirit will not be forgotten !

    Posted by: julia b at February 8, 2007 6:08 PM

    THE WAY OF LOVE

    Oh love so mild, so sweet, so all enduring,
    Your bliss and tenderness can also be fleeting.


    How do I find you, touch you, feel you?
    Where do you go and what do you do when I feel so
    disconnected from you?


    Sometimes it seems you are hiding from me.
    I find myself seeking you in people, plants,
    Animals and even under a tree.


    Oh love, you surround me, can blind me, engulf me,
    And make it difficult for me to see that you are
    Omnipresent and are here, right here within me.


    So long as I love without some kind of desire,
    I find you within me unimcumbered and free.

    By Aina, February 2007

    Valentines Day is comming up. Thought this pome was nice. Remindes me of Barbaro, eap. the last
    paragragh.
    .

    Posted by: Lee at February 8, 2007 6:10 PM

    Hay Everyone

    Thank you Alex, for sharing your morning. Colorfully, I might add. It made me laugh. That's a good thing. Glad no one got hurt. Hawty Creek sounds as though she's in rare form. Can't wait to see her fly.

    I am so looking forward to see Jeannine's interview with Dr. Richardson. Dr. Richardson, if you read this, post here. We'll probably crash the site again ( sorry Alex ) but you have so much support here, if you need it, all you'd have to is do like so many of us here have done in the past several days. Just write a note "hay, need a little support here..any waterproof shoulders? a pat on the back maybe?" will get it, I guarantee you. You are our hero.

    There have been so many amazing tributes, videos, verses, and montages in the past few days. You all have dones some amazing work, and I've loved seeing all of it. Tearfully, sometimes, but it's all just amazing. Pamie, you really should be nominated for FOB Film Of The Year.

    Will check in with you all later. Prayers for all who need them

    Hay bArbaro, it's me, Aunty Cheryl Are you and Felix having fun running around all silly? Be good. Not too much thunder, okay? I miss you. I love you sooooooooooooooo much.

    Love to all,
    Cheryl

    Posted by: Cheryl Jones at February 8, 2007 6:11 PM

    #### LLeslie - what is EPM? Appreciated your last post.

    Posted by: Anita MA at February 8, 2007 6:12 PM

    EVERYONE...CHERYL G isn't feeling well, and I am a little worried about her...has anyone heard from her? She really has been sick the past couple of days...anyone?

    Posted by: Pamela at February 8, 2007 6:12 PM

    After reading posted comments made by Mary Nash I started to think of a letter writing campaign to newspapers located in or near the towns where the slaughter houses are. Anybody know what towns the two in Texas are near or what newspapers are in the area?

    Posted by: Bonnie MacRaith at February 8, 2007 6:18 PM

    I hardly write here, and I know I should, since I love Barbaro so much. No one "out there" seems to understand. Right now I feel so isolated. So many thoughts, albeit sad and even angry at times, yet can never express it in the right words. I'm sure others can relate.

    I sure miss our beautiful Barbaro. I love all horses, and I want the slaughter to stop, but right now my heart pains for Barbaro. He was too young. The journey we all went through was just
    too heartbreaking in the end.

    Just my thoughts..

    Posted by: Elana at February 8, 2007 6:18 PM

    #### LLeslie - ignore my request - just googled it and have something that looks like an answer. Should have done that before posting my request.

    Posted by: Anita MA at February 8, 2007 6:20 PM

    #### Elana - Strange how I keep coming back to this site and read everyone's posts so avidly. It feels like Barbaro is still here. I think I'm still in the denial phase...

    Posted by: Anita MA at February 8, 2007 6:23 PM

    ###
    Pamie
    I haven't heard from Cheryl G since Sunday but she's been blue linking. Please try and reach her and make sure she is OK. She needs to check in here too.
    Thanks

    Posted by: cathy potter/california at February 8, 2007 6:25 PM

    Hi everyone!
    Following is the letter of support for the anti-horse slaughter bill from Sheriff Joe Arpaio of Maricopa County (Phoenix, AZ)!

    For those of you not familiar with Sheriff Joe, he is commonly known as America’s Sheriff! He is tough on crime and not to be fooled with! But as tough as he is, no one is a bigger animal lover than Sheriff Joe. He has done many wonderful things for all animals during his long tenure, and now here is one more example of his kindness to our four-legged friends!

    Last Friday, the Arizona FOBs met with Sheriff Joe to ask for his support. He not only agreed to compose a letter to Congress, but he is also putting forth an announcement soon to condemn horse slaughter. This announcement will appear on his website that receives multiple "hits" daily from all over the world. He is also planning to do a 20 to 30 second video that will be shared across Arizona with the same announcement.

    Sheriff Joe is a powerful ally and will provide leverage in our efforts to get these bills passed. All U.S. lawmakers know him.
    I will be picking up a hard copy of the letter with his signature in a few days. At that time, we will post his letter on the National Equine Rescue Coalition (NERC) website. Here's what we propose for you to do: please download the letter and send it to your local police department (if they employ horses). If you contact the right person, you can even send them the anti-horse slaughter booklet that is now available on NERC (Sheriff Joe and his staff have many copies). Please ask them for a letter of support as well.

    The people who write the laws will lend an ear to the people who uphold the laws. After we post Sheriff Arpaio’s letter on NERC, let’s do our part to send as many letters as possible from local law enforcement agencies who employ horses to our representatives in Congress! Thanks!

    The Az. FOBs: Barbara, Rosemary, Sherry, Michelle (honorary member), and Daryl.


    To the members of the 110th Congress of the United States of America :

    As Sheriff of the third largest Sheriff’s Office in our nation and as law enforcement professional that puts animal cruelty and abuse cases as a top priority, I call on you today to end the slaughter of America ’s horses for human consumption and other purposes.

    I ask you to consider how horses helped build America . Not only did they transport our forefathers from the east coast to the west coast, they have been and remain an invaluable tool to the nation’s law enforcement agencies. Horses provide entertainment in the arenas and race tracks; they are therapy animals for the mentally challenged as well as for many of our soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan ; and perhaps most importantly, horses are the faithful and beloved companions of millions of our constituents.

    And yet, I have been shocked and saddened to learn that thousands of American horses now end up on the dinner plates of wealthy European and Asian consumers as an expensive, exotic gastronomic delight.

    How shameful it is that we as Americans, who would never dream of eating horse meat, would yet allow the export of it as a food source to other countries for the sole purpose of greed.

    Adding insult to injury, it isn’t even American companies profiting from this shameful business but rather three foreign companies which are making millions of dollars of profit conducting these slaughter houses here in our country. At the hands of these operators, the very animal which did more to build this great nation than any other, meets a cruel, painful, long and demeaning death.

    Isn’t it our responsibility as humans to take care of the creatures which share this earth with us? Or at the very least, can we not honor the American horse with a humane, painless and dignified death?

    You members of Congress write and enact the laws of the land. You help set the standards by which we are measured as a nation. Remember - a nation will be judged by how it treats its animals. For that reason, I urge you to enact a law that will honor the American horse and ban the slaughter of equine which have served this great nation since its beginning.

    As Sheriff of Maricopa County for 14 years, I have a good read on the public and how it feels about issues such as animal cruelty. If the American people were to become acutely aware of these horse slaughter houses –their purpose for being and their methods of killing–your constituents would rightly be as outraged as I am.

    You represent the American people. Do what is right for them and for their much-loved horses. Ban the practice of slaughter.

    Sheriff Joe Arpaio
    Maricopa County
    Phoenix, AZ.

    Posted by: Daryl Smoliak at February 8, 2007 6:25 PM

    taken from a bumper sticker -

    "Well-Behaved Women Rarely Make History"

    Posted by: Bonnie MacRaith at February 8, 2007 6:26 PM

    Elana,


    We feel just like you. The void is horrid. Barbaro gave us so much to look forward. We all feel the hurt, trust me.

    Posted by: Stu at February 8, 2007 6:29 PM

    Way to go, Daryl and Sheriff Joe!

    Posted by: Barb AZ at February 8, 2007 6:29 PM

    Goodmorning Barbaro Nation....a thought occurred to me last evening as I was revelling in the afterglow of "B'S" great day of honor in the congress....maybe we should all send thank you cards to congress thanking them for their honor but gently reminding them that if they wish to really honor OUR BOY they need to pass the anti slaughter bill ASAP !!!!!!!

    We have our foot in the door of congress now.......
    thank you cards would be fitting and appropriate and yet another way to show we and the CHAMP mean business.....

    We can stun them with our sheer numbers...imagine if they received hundreds of thousands of cards just like we wowed NBC in the beginning....it could be very very impressive!!!!!!!

    Someone get us an address to send to...I'm going to buy my thank you card right now !!!!

    HAY CHAMP....we're moving on this for you!!!! You're simply the best sweet boy....have fun in your buttercups and I'll bet the carrots are heavenly too!!!! LUV YA

    Posted by: Maribel at February 8, 2007 6:31 PM

    Elana ... You came to the right place. All of our hearts ache. Some of us are still in shock and disbelief. Others are at peace, but still heartbroken. But we all agree on one thing ... WE LOVE BARBARO AND MISS HIM IMMENSELY!!
    Yes ... you came to the right place!

    Cyber hugs ...

    Barbaro ... What a Beautiful Difference One Life Has Made!

    Posted by: Ruth Stacey at February 8, 2007 6:33 PM

    Go Sheriff Joe! I vaguely remember he did some good things for homeless animals - wish I could remember what it was.

    Posted by: J. Carson Black at February 8, 2007 6:33 PM

    Maribel,
    I must have missed this, what happened with congress?

    Posted by: Bonnie MacRaith at February 8, 2007 6:33 PM

    OOOOOO DARYL AND SHERIFF JOE...HOW WONDERFUL!
    THIS IS HUGE GUYS!

    Posted by: Pamela at February 8, 2007 6:34 PM

    #####

    Daryl,

    Thanks for sharing that to the point letter from sheriff Joe Arpaio. He is my favorite sheriff! Great to have him on board.

    Barbaro our angel...I miss you so much. What a void you have left.

    Posted by: Sue H at February 8, 2007 6:36 PM

    Way to go ARIZONA FOB's!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You sure are organized and a true inspiration!

    Posted by: Bonnie MacRaith at February 8, 2007 6:38 PM


    Bonnie....the reps from Kentucky and Pensylvania moved a motion to honor Barbaro and all his connections in the congress .Friar Tuck posted it yesterday as did a few others....it was lovely!!!

    Posted by: Maribel at February 8, 2007 6:38 PM

    AZFOB's are challenging the rest of you to get out there and make a difference for Barbaro! ! !

    Posted by: Barb AZ at February 8, 2007 6:39 PM

    Maribel - I'm not a US citizen, but here's my 2 cents worth, which you can trash if you want to.:) I get the impression that there isn't one address that could be flooded with mail. It's as though if a US citizen has a beef/question or whatever he/she writes to their representative, period. But I think your idea is a great idea. Infiltrate with flattery, tell them that honoring Barbaro was wonderful, etc, etc, etc then hit them with the request to ban horse slaughter. Remember, a little honey...

    Posted by: Anita MA at February 8, 2007 6:39 PM

    Hello Sweet Prince,

    I haven't been able to get on line the last couple of days but you are ALWAYS on my miind and in my heart. I miss you so very much and I know the pain will go away one day, but for now, it is still as hard as the day you left us. I will forever love you and fight for you. LOVE YOU BIG BOSS HORSE!!

    Prayers to all that need them...be safe and remember to always tell the ones you love that you love them.....

    BLB!!!!

    FOB FOREVER!!!

    Karen - TN

    Posted by: Karen at February 8, 2007 6:40 PM

    #####

    Elana,

    We all know how you feel. We love Barbaro so much that it does hurt. I hope you feel a little better coming here. Barbaro's story was such a sad one....a great horse, but too young to have left us. What we can do now is to stop the horse slaughtering in his name. It won't bring him back, but knowing all the good that will be done because of Barbaro will help us to heal.

    Hugs to you and all FOB's

    Posted by: Sue H at February 8, 2007 6:41 PM

    Judy (Ontario CA) Thanks for your vote of confidence. I just know it was Barbaro because when I woke up this morning I felt a strange sense of overwhelming peace. I had not felt this peaceful since his passing. Barbaro was saying, "Do not be sad, Ruth, I live in your heart forever! Gotta go ... they are serving breakfast ... apples, pears and peppermints! YUMMY!"


    Barbaro ... What a Beautiful Difference One Life Has Made!

    Posted by: Ruth Stacey at February 8, 2007 6:43 PM

    Sorry: brain freeze here in upstate NY: is the piece on Dr. Richardson on ESPN with Jeannine Edwards? Or in print somewhere? Thanks;;;j

    Posted by: jonna at February 8, 2007 6:44 PM


    Anita...I'm not a US citizen either but I think a card is something tangible and I'll still send it for our boy...it's the least I can do!!!! Let them know little brother is watching them!!!!!
    Do you live in the U.S or Canada??? We need serious help here in Canada too....

    Posted by: Maribel at February 8, 2007 6:44 PM

    Bonnie McRaith,

    The largest cities and their newspapers around the slaughter houses here in Texas:

    DaDallas – Dallas Morning News – dallasmorningnews.com

    Fort Worth –Star Telegram - http://www.dfw.com/mld/dfw/

    Posted by: Margie Clayton at February 8, 2007 6:46 PM

    ###
    Lillian Petroff at 5:56 PM -

    Not far off the mark! Sometime between the Derby and the Preakness I was researching Dynaformer's offspring and several that are successful steeplechasers. I had this little flash of a dream that Barbaro would win the Triple Crown and then Michael would train him to jump for a second career! Wouldn't that have been something?!! Ah, a girl can dream, eh?

    Marg
    Proud Fan of Barbaro forever

    Posted by: Marg in Maine at February 8, 2007 6:47 PM

    Just watched the video of Barbaro the Legend

    Can't stop crying. Will it ever get easier????

    Miss him so very much!

    Susan NJ

    Posted by: Susan at February 8, 2007 6:51 PM

    ####
    Daryl & AZ FsOB:
    World class letter from Sheriff Joe.

    ####
    Cheryl J:
    Somebody much earler today asked why Barbaro wasn't wearing roses in the winner's circle at the Derby...can you help?

    Cheers,
    Friar Tuck

    Posted by: Friar Tuck at February 8, 2007 6:51 PM

    Maribel - I'm a Canadian, a resident alien in the US. I know, I know, Canada probably isn't doing any better than the US about horse slaughter.

    Posted by: Anita MA at February 8, 2007 6:51 PM

    Hi everyone, I just read Mary Nash's site and found out the the Pittsburgh Zoo is buying the horse meat. And I live near Pittsburgh.

    I e-mailed and faxed a letter to the Director of the Zoo, and let them know how I and alot of other feel about this issue.

    Let you know is I get a response.

    Posted by: Carol Nichols at February 8, 2007 6:51 PM

    Hello to all FFOBs and Horse Lovers Everywhere!

    Yes, I am still having a hard time dealing with the fact that Our Big Boss Top Horse is no longer with us physically. But as I said in my post yesterday, all of the Barbaro tribute videoe you guys have contributed have been very therapeutic, and have helped me to get through this difficult, empty time in all of our lives!

    Rosemarie, that was a beautiful video, and the piano music was very powerful and uplifting! Thank you for your contribution.

    Cathy Potter, whoever in Senator Clinton's office told you that Hilary Clinton could not co-sponsor the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act because she was on board last year was handing you a line of El Toro Doo-Doo! If that were so, then Senator Maria Cantwell would not be on this year's co-sponsor list! I also think we can count on Senator Patty Murray coming back on board, too! I visited both of my Washington State Senators in Seattle this past Tuesday, and asked them to please be co-sponsors in memory of Barbaro. The aides in both offices indicated to me that they have been getting a lot of calls regarding these bills, and I read into their remarks as being positive. I think now that Burns and Frist are gone, we will have a much better chance at getting these anti-slaughter bills passed in their respective chambers! Let's hope this works, for the sake of all horses present and future!

    Well, I gotta go now, but I will check in regularly. To those in the Superfrozen Tundra of the Midwest and Eastern Seaboard, take care of yourselves, keep warm, and please be careful out there! We need all of you!

    Warmest Regards from Laura S. in damp Snohomish, Washington State.

    P.S. I never did learn if Snohomish Slew the Frog predicted wet soggy weather or soggy wet weather for our area, but whenever I find out, I will let you guyses know!

    Posted by: Laura S. in Snohomish, WA at February 8, 2007 6:54 PM

    Friar Tuck ... I had heard that Barbaro did not like the roses. He thought they "stunk!" He wanted no part of them!!!

    Posted by: Ruth Stacey at February 8, 2007 6:55 PM

    Fellow FOB's ... Does anyone think that the fact that Barbaro chose to visit my house last night is that I live on "Steeple Chase Drive?"

    Just a thought ...

    Posted by: Ruth Stacey at February 8, 2007 6:58 PM

    Greetings to all who love Barbaro. I also have felt that close feeling to him. I can see his eyes so clearly and when I imagine stroking his ears, muzzle and neck it is uncanny but it is just as if I am doing this. On a more practical nature, today I contacted the Committees on Agriculture, and Energy and Commerce and forwarded the Anti Slaughter booklet to them. Also wrote a letter to CEO of Wyeth and enclosed a booklet on Anti Slaughter. It feels good to doing this to honor our dear horse. Love to everyone

    Posted by: hilary at February 8, 2007 7:01 PM

    AZFOBs
    Wonderful, wonderful letter from Sheriff Joe. You guys have raised the bar quite high.

    Posted by: cathy potter/california at February 8, 2007 7:01 PM

    Mike C.
    Glad you're back!!!!! Yes, the "Call" has to be perfect! Take all the time you want. I was just concerned and wanted to make sure you hadn't left. Big B wouldn't like that...

    Posted by: Debbie T, Colorado at February 8, 2007 7:02 PM

    ###
    LAURA S - boy, I've missed you around here! Your "P.S." is just hilarious...and believe me, I don't laugh much lately.
    WELCOME HOME!
    Nancy

    Posted by: Nancy in CT at February 8, 2007 7:04 PM

    I just found this in searching info on the slaughter houses here in Texas. It's an article back from last August but it has some very useful information in it regarding fighting horse slaughter. But I am going to warn you, it is NOT an easy read.

    I just cannot believe that America participates in this. What a dirty little secret this has all been.

    Posted by: Margie Clayton at February 8, 2007 7:05 PM

    I just found this in searching info on the slaughter houses here in Texas. It's an article back from last August but it has some very useful information in it regarding fighting horse slaughter. But I am going to warn you, it is NOT an easy read.

    I just cannot believe that America participates in this.

    http://www.longislandpress.com/?cp=40&show=article&a_id=9572

    Posted by: Margie Clayton at February 8, 2007 7:06 PM

    I need to say that I have experienced Barbaro, too. In the clouds amd one night when a single very bright star peeked between the slats of my vertical blinds. Crazy? Cate

    Posted by: Cate at February 8, 2007 7:08 PM

    ######

    Hi CATHY POTTER & Guys, I just spoke with Cheryl's Mom...Cheryl is feeling better, but is still under the weather...now, we can breath a sigh of relief!

    Posted by: Pamela at February 8, 2007 7:09 PM

    SHERIFF JOE ROCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Posted by: Nancy in CT at February 8, 2007 7:09 PM

    Elana,

    I know exactly how you feel. If one more person says to me "your still crying over that horse" I think I will choke them! It's hard to explain to people how close I felt to Barbaro even though I've never seen him in person. He was a huge part of my everyday that I miss very much. So even though I don't post here very often at all I come to this site just as much as I have for the last eight months so I can be near people who are feeling as I do and that understand.

    Posted by: Cindy at February 8, 2007 7:10 PM

    Just read the article about Kennett Florist and it reminded me how much support these special people provided to Barbaro and us; the tears started again- first time this week while at work. Missing Barbaro and feeling sad.

    Daphne

    Posted by: Daphne at February 8, 2007 7:11 PM

    CLICK on your STATE and this map will give you the CONTACT INFORMATION on your REPRESENTATIVE and SENATORS


    110th CONGRESS LEADERSHIP IN HOUSE AND SENATE

    Posted by: Socorro at February 8, 2007 7:13 PM

    Alex,

    It is so wonderful to hear about your conversations with Mrs. Jackson. It is so exciting and I cannot wait until we see what she will unfold for Barbaro's legacy.

    Posted by: Karen, PA at February 8, 2007 7:13 PM

    Posted by: Socorro at February 8, 2007 7:13 PM

    Posted by: Socorro at February 8, 2007 7:14 PM

    I live near the Pittsburgh Zoo too! How did you find out that they feed the animals horsemeat?

    Posted by: sue at February 8, 2007 7:14 PM

    Mrs. Jackson ... What a gracious, classy lady! Barbaro was so fortunate to have had her as his mom!

    Posted by: Ruth Stacey at February 8, 2007 7:15 PM

    ####
    Friar Tuck..my recollection ( I have so many from my late night whispering sessions with bArbaro ) is that it was his belief that the Kentucky Derby was a run frumma rozes and so he did. He didn't want to ware them cuz thay steeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeenk!!! There was a photo of him with a blanket of roses draped over a fence in front of his stall at Fair Hills, I believe, and he believed the camera-angle gave the impression that he had his nodes in the rozes but he saw a bee and wanted to say HAY BEEEEE. He loves everybody, after all, and was impervious to little annoyances like bee-stings :)

    Cheers!
    Cheryl

    Posted by: Cheryl Jones at February 8, 2007 7:15 PM

    Friar Tuck
    Barbaro did not like the feel of the blanket of roses on his back. He did like the roses, though. When they walked him after the race, his people hung the blanket of roses where he could see them, and on his own, he kept coming back to them and nosing them. That's what those beautiful photos are from.

    Posted by: Marilyn/CA at February 8, 2007 7:16 PM

    I keep sneeking in here while at work. I am so slammed but I can't help it.

    Alex thanks for the kind words from Mrs. Jackson!

    I just checked my email and saw the the note from Michelle. Way to go Sheriff Joe!!!!

    Posted by: marie from atl at February 8, 2007 7:19 PM

    ###Friar Tuck ... Read Cheryl Jones' post regarding. She knows bArbaro better than anyone!

    Posted by: Ruth Stacey at February 8, 2007 7:21 PM

    ###Friar Tuck ... Brain Freeze ...
    Please read Cheryl Jones' post regarding the ROSES! She knows bArbaro better than anyone!!

    Posted by: Ruth Stacey at February 8, 2007 7:24 PM

    Pamela,
    Cheryl G was here the other day. :(

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 7:24 PM

    ALEX, thank you for letting us know of your talk with Mrs. Jackson today. I don't think I've ever known a more positive, self-assured and confident person. It was important to see she would not have changed anything. She and her husband have always done what is absolutely right for Barbaro.
    I hope they are comforted and consoled by that.

    Dr. Richardson, we love and respect you for everything you've done. We can only hope that the terrible pain eases up on you. People who are willing to take risks for the betterment of others often do get hurt. Thank you for your mighty efforts. I wish someone could let us know how you're doing..

    Posted by: Christine at February 8, 2007 7:26 PM

    1) Mrs. J is such a great lady

    2) Go get em' Sherrif Joe!

    3) Re: the Pittsburgh Zoo buying horse meat, I'm alerting my family who lives in Pittsburgh to start calling and writing letters.

    4) Will be contacting local newspapers

    Always thinking of our big, beautiful Boy...missing him so.

    Posted by: Maria K. at February 8, 2007 7:27 PM

    ####
    Thanks Cheryl J...I knew you had the exact wording!!

    ####
    Thanks everybody...now let's find Kellye, since it was she who posed the question much earlier today...

    ####
    I'm reposting Debra, Wi and ShelleyA from the other day. Mrs. J, who so aptly said that "certainly grief is the price we pay for love" wants us to channel our energy (and sadness)on behalf of her BBH.

    Important Message from Mrs. Jackson.........
    In a conversation with Debra yesterday, Mrs. Jackson stressed how important it is for us to continue Barbaro's work. She really appreciates everyone's outpouring of love and she admires our dedication to end horse slaughter. But she is worried about us losing momentum.
    Mrs. Jackson then spoke about how tough it is at a time like this (I think she meant being emotionally drained, etc.) and then went on to say that we must go on and continue Barbaro's work. She then said, "If we asked Barbaro to go on, Barbaro would do it. How can we not continue?" Mrs. Jackson also said that she heard that we were asking that the Anti Slaughter Bill be renamed to the Barbaro Bill and that she is ALL FOR IT if, in fact, they would consider changing it.
    Mrs. Jackson is a very special lady and stressed that she hopes we continue our path for the safety and welfare of all horses. She also asked that we all continue to log on to "ALEX BROWN'S" (TWR) website and to keep people motivated. We must keep people motivated.
    We can't let this wonderful lady down! She has given us so much by letting us share in Barbaro's life and now we must pay her back for her kindness and generosity. This is a difficult time for her but, even in her sadness, her first interest is seeing this mission through.
    Let's not disappoint Barbaro, The Jacksons, Dr. Richardson, and all in the Barbaro Camp down. This is HIStory guys. This is our chance to contribute.
    HR503 is in the Energy & Commerce Committee and in the Agricultural Committee
    S311 is in the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee
    Along with contacting our own representatives (one congressman and two senators), we should also contact the leadership of these committees and urge them to get their respective bills out of committee and to a vote.
    Links to these committees will follow shortly.
    Shelley and Debra

    Posted by: ShelleyA at February 7, 2007 1:36 PM

    In fact, Socorro's posted some links above.
    How timely!

    Cheers,
    Friar Tuck

    Posted by: Friar Tuck at February 8, 2007 7:31 PM

    Margie Clayton,
    The site I saw was not this one. It was another one, that had graphic video's on the main page.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 7:33 PM

    Or better yet, just look at Alex's most recent update...

    Cheers,
    FT

    Posted by: Friar Tuck at February 8, 2007 7:33 PM

    ###
    Pamie
    Thanks for the report....Phewwww!!! Don't like to hear that members of our family are down. When you talk to her tell her we miss her and to check in with us.

    LauraS
    I did not speak with the Clinton office. I read this at the againstslaughter yahoo group. Members were calling Hillary's office. The replies from staff were vague and I agree the one about not being able to co-sponsor again was way off the wall. I just want to know her position and if she isn't co-sponsoring this year, why not? She is a Presidential candidate and for me the Bill is a deal breaker.
    Could some of our NY FOBs please make the calls and find out what's up?

    Posted by: cathy potter/california at February 8, 2007 7:34 PM

    Wouldn't it have been nice to hear the description of Barbaro being trained in his early years. When Alex describes his day I feel like I want to put Barbaro's name in place of his horses' names.

    Hugs to Mr. and Mrs. Jackson, Dr. R., Michael, Peter, Edgar, NBC staff, Tom, Alex, KF. I know how hard it is for me when I think of Barbaro. I can't even imagine their hurt, other then I know it is great.

    This horse stomped all over my heart and I am so glad he did. Knowing he is in heaven makes it easy to go there when my time comes.

    Horse Hands Across America and the World!
    Keep the Faith!
    God spoke "Horse" and it was amazing!

    Posted by: Linda Lee at February 8, 2007 7:35 PM

    Pamie,
    Thanks for the news on Cheryl G.

    Get Better Cheryl G.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 7:35 PM

    ##Mirabel, I think that was very good to send them a card, honey is better than vinegar, etc.

    I live in Canada but am still US Citizen (via Pasadena, CA), however, have been here a long time. I would like to do something about the situation here in Canada as well, I cringe when they talk about when the Bill goes through that they will ship the horses here. Maybe we could stop that from happening somehow. The whole idea makes me sick.

    Is it warming up where you are?

    Judy

    Posted by: Judy (Ontario, CA) at February 8, 2007 7:37 PM

    Alex thank you for letting us know about Mrs. Jackson's call, working on Barbaro's legacy.
    She is a great ladie!
    And thanks for letting us know about the rescue.
    Didn't know Beth at the Grace Foundation needed help. She has our poster boy Salvation! Seems the rescue is going well. Horses will be at Beth on Monday?
    And Alex helped!
    Have not had time to read all the post,and have not been on the Discussion Board. Been working on the senators and reading Daryl's booklet.

    Posted by: Debbie L.A. at February 8, 2007 7:40 PM

    ###
    Cathy Potter..and Fans Of Barbaro
    My 3 paged flyer is almost ready...thanks for the pix..Cathy..I have Barbaro's picture on a page with a rainbow..In Loving Memory

    then about the horse slaughter...etc...the two senators here in Texas...their addresses and how to mail..and sign...last page is contacting Congress.

    Anyone else have any suggestions?

    Posted by: JOAN ROYA at February 8, 2007 7:41 PM

    Again...Thanks Alex for all you do !!!!!!

    I have an article printed in the "Cleveland Plain Dealer" on Jan 31 which is a fitting tribute to Barbaro. Since I do not have a computer (spare time is spent with my horses) and I pick up my e-mail at the library would someone e-mail me their address and I will mail them the article so they can post ? E-mail is...m_keister@hotmail.com

    Also, since Ohio's new senator, Sherrod Brown, is "onboard" with anti-slaughter I will do some research. I believe his wife, Connie Schultz, is a writer for the Plain Dealer. Maybe I can get her to do an article on horse slaughter. Our other senator is going to be a "hard-sell" but I will start calling.

    Just some thoughts. ALL FOR BARBARO

    Posted by: Marie Keister at February 8, 2007 7:42 PM

    ###

    P.S...saw on UPenn site...horses are being forced across border at Juarez, Mexico...WE HAVE TO GET HOT....

    Posted by: JOAN ROYA at February 8, 2007 7:44 PM

    I wrote this many months ago (placed on the Forum/Discussion Board). I hope that maybe today it will remind us of some of those we are trying to save, and motivate even more calls against slaughter. Thank you Barbaro, for opening our eyes.

    More Than an "Also Ran"

    We have not won a special race,
    We have not been the ones to chase,
    We have not won large purses though
    We still have hearts that overflow.

    We love to run and we compete,
    We give our best - even in defeat,
    We watch as others may go past,
    We still believe that we are fast!

    We do what we are asked to do,
    We hope that it is pleasing too,
    We like to race, but never reach
    The fame and recognition peak.

    Our names don't even ring a bell,
    But as for effort, who can tell?
    We give it all we've got and more,
    Potential sometimes still in store.

    It's in our heart and in our blood,
    Yet some think we aren't "good enough",
    But we know that our hearts are true,
    And top prize is for just a few.

    If "champion" is not our fate
    We pray some options still await,
    For "champion hearts" we still possess
    We will not give you any less.

    We keep on trying, and we will,
    For every race and stride until
    It's time for us to step away,
    And not race on another day.

    And when by destiny or chance,
    We falter, stumble in our dance,
    We pray that you will care enough
    To save us when the going's tough.

    We hope and trust that when we end
    Our "useful" days, and need a friend,
    That memories of our noble tries,
    Will pave the path to new, full lives.

    Posted by: Gloria in IL at February 8, 2007 7:44 PM

    Has anyone heard when the interview with Dr. Richardson and Jeannine Edwards will be?

    Thanks.
    Candy in MN

    Posted by: Candy at February 8, 2007 7:44 PM

    DAMN IT! I wish they would just leave OUR HORSES Alone!

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 7:46 PM

    Alex: Thanks for sharing your conversation with Mrs. Jackson. What a gracious classy woman. She is handling this well and is using positive energy to focus on moving on with his memory. She must miss him dearly....she is truly a lady I would love to meet....

    Posted by: Deb G. at February 8, 2007 7:48 PM

    ####
    Judy and Maribel:
    Shelley Grainger of Canada has the slaughter booklet we have available. She has distributed it to Canadian humane organizations. If you would like her e-mail address, please contact me.
    She is passionate and hard at work in Canada!
    Daryl

    shanamrdiv@yahoo.com

    Posted by: Daryl Smoliak at February 8, 2007 7:48 PM

    Marie Keister ... I am from Cleveland and read that tribute in The Plain Dealer. If you want, you can email it to me at rs281ms@aol.com and I will post it here. Or, I can try to get the link to Cleveland.com and post it here!

    Welcome fellow Clevelander ... and yes, Connie Schultz does write an editorial column for the PD!

    Posted by: Ruth Stacey at February 8, 2007 7:49 PM

    Good day Alex, FOB’s and our beloved Barbaro!

    A very important note for all to keep in mind:

    When we’re fighting for the “Barbaro Bills,” please tell our representatives (Congress, House, Committees, etc) to keep the bills clean! Many times, when it looks as if a bill will fly through easily, the representatives will start attaching pork and special projects onto the bill. That will mean fewer chances of the bills being passed, since SOME of the representatives DO bother reading the bills before voting. The “Barbaro bills” DO NOT NEED ANY ATTACHED PORK! We must demand that the language stays clean, clear, and concise. Remember, NO PORK for Barbaro and fellow horses!

    Also, does anybody know of Mexico’s slaughter laws? This might be trouble. The U.S. slaughter houses could easily pick up and move over to Mexico. And with the open trucking and trading regulations with Mexico and Canada, due to NAFTA, this might be a serious loophole.

    We need to demand that proper language is placed into the bills that transportation of horses, for the means/purpose of slaughter, can not be allowed to pass over our borders up north and down south. This will be an issue since, again, NAFTA allows the transport of trucks/trailers over borders without inspections.

    Keep up the good fight!

    Posted by: Stefanie J. from Virginia Beach at February 8, 2007 7:51 PM

    ####
    Sue, go to Mary Nash's web site and click on slaughter houses, and they have the Pittsburgh Zoo listed as references.

    Posted by: Carol Nichols at February 8, 2007 7:53 PM

    I have heard that the slaughter of horses in Mexico is way more inhumane that what they do here in America, if you can imagine that.

    Posted by: Margie Clayton at February 8, 2007 7:53 PM

    ###

    Yes...Margie...they are brutal and that is putting it very lightly...

    Posted by: JOAN ROYA at February 8, 2007 7:56 PM

    All Barbaro Books on Amazon.com are cheaper than they are on any other sites! Just a heads up guys/gals

    "Barbaro: A Nations Love Story" by Pamela Brodowsky is out HB Feb 27th = $13.57

    "Barbaro: The Horse Who Captured America's Heart" by Sean Clancy is out HB May 1st = $17.13

    "Barbaro: America's Horse" by Shelley Mickle is out PB March 13th $8.99

    Posted by: Dora J Crow at February 8, 2007 7:56 PM

    I have to sign off to go to a doc apt. I will try to get on later so I can stay up to date with the fight to end the horse slaughter.

    Everyone on this website is so very kind. Very good people here, working for a much needed miracle.

    Love to Barbaro, the Jacksons, Dr. R and Alex!!

    Posted by: Margie Clayton at February 8, 2007 7:57 PM

    ####
    Renee...do you think Nina is still at the grocery store...have not heard from her on web since early this morning.

    Posted by: JOAN ROYA at February 8, 2007 8:00 PM

    Alex - thanks for sharing your conversation with Mrs. Jackson. She is such a classy lady,like everyone surrounding Barbaro.

    Posted by: SusanO at February 8, 2007 8:03 PM

    Dora,
    I have all three on pre order. :)

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 8:06 PM

    CLICK on your STATE and this map will give you the CONTACT INFORMATION on your REPRESENTATIVE and SENATORS


    110th CONGRESS LEADERSHIP IN HOUSE AND SENATE

    Posted by: Socorro at February 8, 2007 8:06 PM

    Good gosh, how can horseslaughter be more inhumane than it already is?? Yes, sounds like we have to make sure the bill includes NO TRANSPORTATION OVER BORDERS....

    Posted by: Deb G. at February 8, 2007 8:07 PM

    Posted by: Socorro at February 8, 2007 8:07 PM

    #####Cathy Potter, I am sorry that I missread your post! Please forgive me, my 56+ year old brain sometimes does not work as well as it should! There are so many posts on here it is all too easy to get stuff mixed up. Also, I have had a lot to think about lately; my sister-in-law is undergoing surgery to relieve the pressure on her cerebellum (she has a Chiari malformation that has been causing her a lot of problems), and I am facing a ton of dental work. So, once again, my apologies!

    With Warmest regards, Laura S. in Snohomish, WA

    Posted by: Laura S. in Snohomish, WA at February 8, 2007 8:07 PM

    Posted by: Socorro at February 8, 2007 8:08 PM

    We hurt so bad over the loss of Barbaro and just thihk about Mrs. Jackson's hurt. It has to be 100 x greater than ours.
    Such a sweet and caring lady to keep in touch with us. Thanks Mrs. Jackson.

    Love and Kisses Barbaro!

    Posted by: LLeslie In Oklahoma at February 8, 2007 8:08 PM

    JOAN,
    If she is not there I have a feeling she was abducted by a very large dark bay colt, who ate all her pears,apples and peppermints.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 8:09 PM

    In Support of Dr Dean Richardson


    Dr Richardson Candles

    Posted by: Susan in Saratoga at February 8, 2007 8:11 PM

    #### Regarding US Zoos feeding their large carnivores horsemeat--Jack Hanna seemed very opposed to horse slaughter when he appeared on Larry King Live the other night. I think we should approach him about speaking out against use of horse meat to zoos in North America. Jim Fowler (of Wild Kingdom fame) would be another possible advocate.

    Posted by: Dawn in Omaha at February 8, 2007 8:12 PM

    Susan,
    Done with respect and love for a great man.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 8:13 PM

    Hi Joan: I haven't been to the grocrie store yet. This injury really messed up my left leg. I usually don't get hurt falling on the ice but this one, I pulled a tendon out of whack and I am on strong medication so I am not very motivated. I think I will either go out in a while OR get on Safeway.com and have them do a delivery.

    Renee: What are you talking about in your post above?

    Equine Heaven!!!!!!

    Everyone on this board should start going over there cause it really rocks!!!!!!!!! I love it there and it helps me to cheer up when I am down.... It is really fun and I wish more people would go over there and start talking to Barbaro first hand because he is right there along with EVERYONE else........ :-) By the way.... Why is Pray for Me not entered in the race? :-(

    Don't worry Big Buddy... I need to find some sales cause of Seattle Slews appetite.... Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhh now that I know the REAL DEAL, it is off to the discount stores........

    My Angel Barbaro 4-EVER...... ;-)

    Posted by: Nina at February 8, 2007 8:13 PM

    Found this on the net. Are there plants in Mexico or not????

    http://www.whoanm.org/HorseSlaughter/SB67Pamphlet.htm

    Posted by: Deb G. at February 8, 2007 8:14 PM

    Renee: What are you talking about in your post above?

    Nina,
    I was answering JOAN about you, and where you might be.You must be on some good meds. LOL I hope you feel better soon.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 8:17 PM

    Alex, I just received the book you recommended to read, look forward to reading it this weekend. thanks.

    Posted by: Robin Miller at February 8, 2007 8:17 PM

    Ok, nevermind. I guess they do slaughter in Mexico. As well as the two TX plants are going to open across borders too....

    http://www.fund4horses.org/info.php?id=935

    Posted by: Deb G. at February 8, 2007 8:17 PM

    Dawn,

    They got the money!! Those horses are o.k.

    Unfortunately, you know there will be others...

    susan h

    Posted by: susan at February 8, 2007 8:18 PM

    ##
    Has anyone heard form Designgirl7. I miss her and her silly personality.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 8:18 PM

    ###

    When the greed of money is involved...Deb G..they find a way...so disgusting...and no hearts...none compared to all of you.


    Nina: I think Renee thought Barbaro had taken you for a little dream ride..ha.

    Posted by: JOAN ROYA at February 8, 2007 8:19 PM

    ### Someone asked earlier what EPM infection is. Here's a brief answer for you:

    EPM (Equine protozoal myeloencephalitis)is an infection of the central nervous system of horses. The neurologic signs that it causes are most commonly asymmetric incoordination (ataxia), weakness and spasticity, although they may mimic almost any neurologic condition. Clinical signs among horses with EPM include a wide array of symptoms that may result from primary or secondary problems. Recent research efforts at the University of Kentucky have implicated the opossum as the definitive host of the EPM organism.

    Posted by: Dawn in Omaha at February 8, 2007 8:20 PM

    JOAN
    When it cones to food that's no dream ride. I see it, nicker, I eat it, nicker, I love it.whinney YUMMY...burp.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 8:21 PM

    Good day to all -

    Welcome Elana. This is a good place for soothing hearts.

    AZ FsOB - How cool is THAT! Way to go!

    The tributes, articles, etc. are just amazing.

    I am having a truly crazy day, but had to stop by and say hello.

    Mr. Brown, thanks for the wonderful pictures of the morning there.

    Everyone stay warm in the cold places.

    Love and comfort to all in need, four-legged and two-legged, and have a day full of courage and kindness.

    - Jean

    Posted by: Jean at February 8, 2007 8:22 PM

    The best way to help get these Bills passed, is to let your Representatives and Senators hear that you are in favor of the Bills everyday.

    Believe me they don't read everything we are reading. PLEASE CALL THEM


    HOUSE BILL - HR 503

    SENATE BILL - S 311


    CLICK on your STATE and this map will give you the CONTACT INFORMATION on your REPRESENTATIVE and SENATORS


    110th CONGRESS LEADERSHIP - HOUSE AND SENATE


    Posted by: Socorro at February 8, 2007 8:22 PM

    #### Susan--thanks for letting me know that Grace Foundation got enough to save the latest group of horses. I will contribute to the next batch (since there will be more) :0(

    Posted by: Dawn in Omaha at February 8, 2007 8:23 PM

    Poor horses seem to be vulnerable to so many health issues, or I am just being sensitive.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 8:23 PM

    Ruth Stacey....The library computer does not let me e-mail the article so if you can link that would be great. Otherwise e-mail me your address and I will mail to you.

    Posted by: Marie Keister at February 8, 2007 8:24 PM

    Alex,

    Thanks for the info on the conversation with Mrs. Jackson, she is indeed a wonderful lady. If I could change one thing though it would have been that abscess they found after the Eclipse awards that really started the dramatic deterioration.

    I really wish he had a different ending, this is very saddening for me.

    Posted by: Peter at February 8, 2007 8:26 PM

    ##Daryl Smoliak, I have e-mailed you for the contact address. Thanks,

    Judy

    Posted by: Judy (Ontario, CA) at February 8, 2007 8:27 PM

    ####
    FsOB:
    We can safely leave the language of the bill to the legislators and other professionals. Our mandate is to spread the word on a civilian level...remember the compelling stat from last year: 80% of Americans were unaware of the practice. Our assignment is to raise awareness [bearing in mind that all thresholds for graphic imagery are not created equal] and invite various individuals to contact their legislators to voice their opposition to horse slaughter.

    Cheers,
    Friar Tuck

    Posted by: Friar Tuck at February 8, 2007 8:28 PM

    Thank you Alex!

    Dear Mrs. Jackson, we will continue.

    Can't imagine how much you miss your precious Barbaro. See how much we miss him? We can never thank you enough for sharing him with us.

    Hugs,
    Cheryl Jones

    Posted by: Cheryl Jones at February 8, 2007 8:32 PM

    Marie Keister ... I will try to post that link for you as soon as I can. May have to wait until tomorrow or Saturday!

    Posted by: Ruth Stacey at February 8, 2007 8:32 PM

    GRETCHEN;S SONG FOR BARBARO
    imagine her grief
    ...wait all your life ,for this horse and then--
    an odyssey to heal and love ..all the more
    what BARBARO GAVE AND gives
    dear Alex,

    to honor the work you do
    ...in the world of horses who love to run and compete and play
    ..to show so many what thE best of competition cAN inspire..
    to see the makings of a great champion and a good horse.
    ..all horses are great..
    all the things i have learned ABout FAIR HILL
    SPEAK OF THIS PASTURAL UP BRINGING ..WHICH WE NEED TOO..

    BARBARO--
    i hear him so clearly racing in the sky
    ...time so precious.
    ..lets go..get this done
    ..love the bench, the painting for dr dean,
    ernie's wise comments ..we hold dr dean r./ in our space
    ..to support him through this terrible loss.
    we focus on laminitus
    that is what killed barbaro
    .. the dreaded founders disease
    i swear i would go to med school to find the cure if i had another
    life..and room.to do it
    ....lets get the money raised for that ..now..
    -
    -cookbooks, all manner of creative projects that could be sold to earn
    money for the barbaro laminitus fund

    DEAR FANS OF Barbaro
    what beautiful prose and poetry and good deeds are flowing in his name.
    thak you, thank you..
    ..i can tell you
    first hand
    ,that NBC
    deeply appreciates our love for barbaro and his care now
    trully begins..in the invisible -his legacy wont die for a photo oip or
    a tv spot..
    ...i am deeply touched by gretchen jackson's call to debrah
    we have to get this bill passed and barbaro bill.
    isnt that wonderful?.
    i absolutely can not conceive of letting down the jacksons
    and what they did
    to try and save this horse
    WHAT A GIFT TO US
    wow my whole life changed in a blink
    when i saw him run that day
    on the tv no less
    ..i recognized Avalon.
    ..the knights of the round table,
    the sands of egypt ,
    destiny ,mythologies, history..
    all over the world,
    we learned so much from him during this time.
    ..it never ends
    ...all the beautiful things ..and all the opportunities in our great pain
    and grief,to heal ..for him so many things not right..
    .../.because it aint getting any easier
    but that is the way it iswiht loss and pain
    .....however
    every time i do something in his name
    i feel terrific
    ...like i am running for him too.. now..he ran for me
    now i am going to run for him
    ...who never can be replaced. and in the big void we all feel, i feel, we
    can grow something spectacular..
    i dont want him to be looking down on me and see i aint doing the work
    he came to tell us about..
    with that in mind
    i have made myself available.
    ..my fourth career is now BARABRO BILL
    ,hearing gretchen jackson's clarion words
    ...that come from a deep recognition of what her barbaro was all about.
    i am fascinated by how each of us .
    ..in the thousands
    can find individual daily tasks
    that honor him
    ...now
    ...the rescue and retirement homes for horses.
    ..calling your representatives
    NOW
    ASP.
    to get this anti slaughter bill passed for barbaro and all the horse who
    have no voice ..
    there will be a new chosen horse to heal in barbaror;s stall..
    how special.
    ..and we walk those rooms knowing all the love and washing machines that
    are spinning to keep all the fuzzy blankets clean and fresh.. it all
    pristine and ready for the next hurting animal..
    may your day be lighter
    ..may you gain your focus..to do your own calling..
    and as dear mrs jackson said.
    ..find your own path to help barbaro
    ...let him speak to you and now is the time to weave our gold.
    ..i love it
    i i love barbaro
    . i love the clear elegance of gretchen and roy jackson
    wow in the world of breeders
    what a standard to set.
    .. and i love dr richardson.
    ..his crushed heart needing all love to know he did his best
    ..who the world applauds his skill and efforts..and he may whisper to
    himself all day long it wasnt enough.
    ..but we know that fate had its own destiny .
    ..as written so eloquently by many and recently by bonnie..
    we must see it s it is ..
    at long distance race.
    to weave into our lives,,as a trust he gave us..
    ..for his nation

    the power of love, the power of one the power of barbaro.
    in the light,
    'martita.



    Posted by: martita goshen at February 8, 2007 8:36 PM

    God Bless Mrs. Jackson!!!!!!!

    Posted by: Ernie at February 8, 2007 8:39 PM

    Renee and Joan: If Barbaro wants more treats from my house he better come over here and give me a ride to the store. I don't think I should drive.. I am going NUTS here too... I hate to be down like this and not going out and doing things. I wanted to go see the race horses today but my luck, I would get stepped on or kicked or bit...... HA!

    I am staying off the ice until Monday........maybe Tuesday.... I am training for the adult Nationals but at this rate, I will be entered into the preliminary race for who can skate away from the wall and stay out in the middle of the rink the longest hahahahahaha! Naaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa I am practicing the double jumps (was off the ice for quite a few years).. When I went back to skating, everything came back but the jumps. It isn't so much the landings it is the landings on the butt (injuries last longer now that I am older)............

    Slew will you PLEASE excort me if Babaro can't cause I am too loaded to drive............

    Angel Barbaro...... 4-ever....... ;-)

    Posted by: Nina at February 8, 2007 8:42 PM

    ###

    Crying again....God Bless You..Martita

    God Bless Mrs. Jackson

    God Bless Everyone!!!

    Posted by: JOAN ROYA at February 8, 2007 8:42 PM

    ###
    Renee...Designgirl is doing much better. She's still recovering from 10 days of very sad news and events.

    Posted by: Kathy J. - Hilton Head Island, SC at February 8, 2007 8:43 PM

    "Laminitis Claims Mom's Command"
    1985 Filly Triple Crown Winner

    Just found this article on ESPN website

    http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/horse/news/?id=2756668

    Another fine horse surcomes to laminitis. We've got to find a cure or effective treatment. Please continue to donate to the UPenn Laminitis Reasearch fund.

    Carol L
    Sylvania, OH

    Posted by: Carol L at February 8, 2007 8:44 PM

    Peter.....

    It isn't over...:-) It has only just begun... Barbaro started the race and now we all need to finish it..... ;-)

    Love to all and Angel Barbaro.......... ;-)

    Posted by: Nina at February 8, 2007 8:44 PM

    ####
    Well said (and linked!) Socorro at 8.22 PM...

    ####
    Peter:
    We all wish it had a different ending. Still, that's why Doc R likened the situation to a house of cards...and don't forget, the abscess came after the separation in his LH hoof earlier in January. Long, short, the enemy was (quoting
    Equine Heaven)
    "Just a quick message from Barbaro up here, as well as several of his equine friends....He would like me to mention to people around the world to change the word "Laminitis", and refer to it as "Eliminitis." Find a cure for his friends and team mates down below..."

    Cheers,
    Friar Tuck

    Posted by: Friar Tuck at February 8, 2007 8:45 PM

    ##Nina, he slipped into my house and took away all my pears and apples, didn't find the peppermints though. So you might be ok for today.

    Hope you're feeling better tomorrow. That stuff you're on sounds pretty good. Be careful.

    Judy

    Posted by: Judy (Ontario, CA) at February 8, 2007 8:48 PM

    Hi Kathy J.,
    Please tell her I was asking for her and miss her, and that I hope things get better for her. I feel so bad.

    It is so nice to see you.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 8:48 PM

    Anna Nicole Smith is dead. Wow!

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 8:50 PM

    Posted by: Rosemarie at February 8, 2007 8:50 PM

    Dear Martita,

    Your posting today was wonderful. Your thoughts and words never fail to touch my heart and bring tears to my eyes. Thank you Martita - in the light.

    Posted by: Karen in Las Vegas at February 8, 2007 8:52 PM

    Renee - And yet she was feeling well enough to attend The Hard Rock

    Posted by: jeri at February 8, 2007 8:52 PM

    jeri,
    I have my questions.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 8:54 PM

    Sometimes I get tired of being nice, holding my tongue.

    But...THIS CRAP HAS GOT TO STOP! (horse slaughter).

    Thanks for letting me vent.

    Many tears for those not saved yet.

    Please pray for us, Big.B, Ferdinand, and Exceller, that we may put a quick end to this disgusting behavior here on earth.

    Posted by: Margie at February 8, 2007 8:56 PM

    Good day Alex & FOBs.

    Mrs. Jackson is such a wonderful, caring woman. My heart goes out to her and Mr. Jackson. I cannot imagine how this whole situation has truly impacted them. Throughout Barbaro's entire journey, the Jacksons exemplified compassion, strength of character, dignity and grace. I wish them both well. If only this world were full of more people like Roy and Gretchen Jackson; it would most certainly be a better place. God bless them.

    Barbaro, you remain in my heart...always and forever. I love you sweet boy.

    The miracle of Barbaro continues...

    Posted by: Sandie at February 8, 2007 8:56 PM

    Margie,

    I second that. IT MAKES ME SICK,ANGRY AND MY HEART ACHE!

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 8:59 PM

    ###
    Laura S
    No apologies necessary. Just wanted to clarify that this was something that I read. My frustration lies in the fact that Hillary was with us last year. If she's not joining....then WHY???? I can only guess that she would be looking for Ag votes. Like I said....I don't care for fence riding. You're either with me...or you're agin' me".

    Posted by: cathy potter/california at February 8, 2007 9:03 PM

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri in SE Texas at February 8, 2007 9:04 PM

    ##Marita, Thank you, that is so beautifully said.
    Your posts are always done with such feeling and expression, I feel them in my heart.

    Judy

    Posted by: Judy (Ontario, CA) at February 8, 2007 9:06 PM

    This Mexico thing is just what I feared if the TX SH closed. I don't know if you guys remember reading about the White Mare. The horse don't get the captive bolt there....it is brutal. Please.....I know how hard everyone here is working on faxing etc....the key is spreading the word and getting those people to fax, call & email too.

    Posted by: cathy potter/california at February 8, 2007 9:09 PM

    Posted by: Ruth Stacey at February 8, 2007 9:12 PM

    Calling all the Alabama folks here, to stop the horse slaughter

    Upset, Dora are you out there? Just call Jo Bonner my House of Rep. talked to his aide. He is still Pro Slaughter!!!!!!!! I ask the aide it he had received my fax from last Friday. Yes but he has not changed his mind. Truly sorry Bonner can not hear his constituent and I am very disappointed in him. Ask the aide to please tell Mr Bonner how I feel. He said he would.
    We had two other people from Alabama here on TWR site.
    Please Call
    Jo Bonner Alabama house Rep.
    202-225-4931
    Fax 202-225-0562

    Senator Shelby
    202-224-5744
    Fax 202-224-3416

    Senator Sessions
    202-224-4124
    Fax 202-224-3149

    Posted by: Debbie L.A. at February 8, 2007 9:14 PM

    Ruth,
    Thank you for the link.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 9:16 PM

    ###

    Cathy and Others...on UPenn Site...someone from El Paso posted...yes the horses are going across. the border..they put up a web...to look at, etc. OUR FEARS..MEXICO...GREED...DEATH MONEY...WRONGFUL MONEY...PRAY FOR OUR HORSES AND FALLEN ANGELS.

    Goodnight Angel...Barbaro...
    Looking for you always in the heavens above...love reading about the Equine Heavens and what you big guys are up too.

    Please everyone...the momentum is so high..do not let our guards down.

    Pray for Dr. R...and our hearts to the Jacksons, Alex, and Mr. Tim.

    Pray and remember all the unspoken and spoken requests.

    I personally thank everyone for the uplifting words, songs, and poems..they are everlasting in mine and everyone's hearts.

    Let us be the voice for many voices that cannot speak for themselves.

    Alot is happening, and alot is going to happen..keep your spirits high...and know Barbaro is with us...all of you know that...and he NEVER GAVE UP...NOR SHALL WE.

    HAVE A BLESSED NIGHT...PRAYERS TO ALL.

    Posted by: JOAN ROYA at February 8, 2007 9:17 PM

    #####
    More evidence that the general population wants the practice of horse slaughter stopped. Kentucky has a bill in our legislature that will prohibit the slaughtering of horses for human consumption. It also prohibits the transportation of horses for slaughter.

    If you want to read the entire bill go to:

    http://www.lrc.ky.gov/record/07RS/SB6/bill.doc

    It is committee now. So we will see what happens.

    FOB
    Jennie (Kentucky)

    So

    Posted by: Jennie (Kentucky) at February 8, 2007 9:21 PM

    Corinthian just beat Jazil at Gulfstream -- HUGE lead.

    Posted by: Kitty in SC at February 8, 2007 9:25 PM

    Martita, that was beautiful...

    God Bless You, Mrs. Jackson. We will continue to fight for all of Barbaro's causes, in his name, and for you, too.

    If you haven't watched the YouTube video, "Barbaro The Legend", you must. It is by far the most beautiful, touching, inspiring video I have seen. It will break your heart and heal it at the same time. The song is by Josh Groban, "Remember Me".

    We will never forget...

    Posted by: Judy B at February 8, 2007 9:27 PM

    Good Night JOAN.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 9:27 PM

    Friar Tuck
    I wanted to find this for you because it's so charming. Not to contradict bArbaro's account :)
    ...but here is what the Philadelphia Inquirer said on May 7th.

    **************

    Barbaro stilling smelling the roses.
    COPYRIGHT 2006 The Philadelphia Inquirer

    Byline: Mike Jensen

    LOUISVILLE, Ky. _ As Barbaro walked the shedrow of his barn at Churchill Downs Sunday morning -- his first as Kentucky Derby champion -- the colt occasionally stopped and took a sniff of the blanket of red roses still there at the barn.

    "They're his, he won them," said Barbaro's assistant trainer, Peter Brette. "If he wants to eat them, he can eat them."

    Fourth-place finisher Jazil, walking in the same barn, tried to take his own bite.

    "They're not your roses," said his assistant trainer, Neal McLaughlin, tugging Jazil away.


    Posted by: Marilyn/CA at February 8, 2007 9:27 PM

    Posted by: Nancy at February 8, 2007 9:29 PM

    ###Marie Keister ... I'm sorry ... I think I called you Mary!

    ###Renee ... You are welcome. It truly is beautiful!

    Posted by: Ruth Stacey at February 8, 2007 9:31 PM

    "They're his, he won them," said Barbaro's assistant trainer, Peter Brette. "If he wants to eat them, he can eat them."

    Marilyn/CA,
    I needed that. Thanks.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 9:35 PM

    Fellow FOBs,

    That is SO AWESOME about the Grace Foundation rescue! Prayers to all of those not saved yet...

    Cheryl G - I hope you're doing ok.

    Does anyone know if there will be any rallies against horse slaughter? I work in Washington, DC and would love to take part in one, but I hadn't heard anything.

    Posted by: Chrissy at February 8, 2007 9:36 PM

    Hello all...

    Miss not being here today, had to be running around places...

    Alex, when I read those first words, "Mrs. Jackson just called..." my brain immediately formed the thought, I wonder how Barbaro is doing--I guess from months of the routine that used to be normal, as if the next words would of course be "she fed him some of her Lael grass". Then the reality kicked in, again, with a thud. How wonderful of her to be in touch and to be so supportive.

    I wish we could give Dr. R a group hug (((((((Dr. R))))))) I look forward to Jeannine's interview, but my heart will be broken again. He was the "public face" of Barbaro for all these months. It's got to be so difficult for him to go to work.

    Now I'm a bit confused--what is a Belmont winner like Jazil doing in an "optional claiming race"? What is that?

    ###
    Susan E.

    I see Felix is already in charge up in equine heaven!

    Posted by: Jane in CT at February 8, 2007 9:38 PM

    And it is All Barbaro

    Hope this works. My small tribute to Barbaro.

    Ro & Brady

    Posted by: Rosemarie at February 8, 2007 9:42 PM

    Just for the sake of drawing a perspective.

    In 10 years when someone will mentions Barbaro. People will pause, we will all remember his Kentucky Derby win, the Preakness, NBC, Dr. Richardson, the Jackson's, TWR, the Barbaro bill that stopped horse slaughter and if we are really lucky the Barabro cure that brought an end to laminitis. Some of us will shed a tear or two in thinking about his eight month fight for life and what a truly magnificent horse he was.

    In 10 years, will people even remember who Anna Nichole was? Bless her heart, may she rest in peace.

    Posted by: Judy in WA at February 8, 2007 9:43 PM

    Judy,
    I would choose Barbaro's life over her's at least he had peace of mind and a good life.

    God Bless her she can rest now.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 9:50 PM

    Ro - What a great tribute! The music was beautiful! Thanks for sharing that with us!

    Posted by: Chrissy at February 8, 2007 9:50 PM

    Hello Alex, FOB's, and of course, Pegasus Angel Bobby:

    I was scrolling thru the entries today, and noted this wonderful entry by Kellye...in the event you missed it, I am pasting it in here:


    "My Derby 132 book was delivered yesterday. I looked through it right away and two things jumped out at me.

    1) So many of the photos show Barbaro with all four feet off the ground. There is mention of it in the book. The photographers who regularly cover racing said they've never seen a horse spend so much time in mid-air with no feet on the ground. Flying Barbaro!!

    2) Every photo with Peter Brette shows him focused intently on Barbaro. I wonder if he noticed the crowd and the hoopla surrounding the Derby? Even in the winner's circle photo, he's looking at Barbaro and making sure he's okay with the craziness. (and no roses on Barbaro - did he refuse to allow it?)
    The shot of Mrs. Jackson leading Barbaro has Peter just off to the side ready to jump in if needed. He loved that horse so much and believed in him with every fiber of his being. I so wish that this story had a happy ending. :(

    However, seeing all those photos of Barbaro floating through the air as the competition struggled to keep up made me think that he may never have been truly happy with not being able to run again. He loved to run and every shot of him sailing along shows a bright eye full of life. He was one of the greats and we'll never know what he could have done. It's heartbreaking.

    Posted by: Kellye at February 8, 2007 12:16 PM"

    Kellye, nice job! I could not have said it better. I can't wait for my book to be delivered!

    Keep the fire burning, everyone.

    William

    Posted by: William at February 8, 2007 9:51 PM

    It touched me to read how Dr. R. said that in those moments "he was happy." I imagine someday soon, a day will go by without a tear, but I guess not yet.

    Posted by: Faye at February 8, 2007 9:52 PM

    Ro and Brady, That was just beautiful. I'm crying, of course. I do a lot of that these days. But your tribute was like a beautiful dream of days gone by. He was magnificent, wasn't he?

    Posted by: DJoAnn at February 8, 2007 9:52 PM

    I just read the story from the florist...how touching that the staff's eyes tear up when a basket is delivered to the research horses. It makes me wish I could send treats to every horse there.

    Posted by: Faye at February 8, 2007 9:54 PM

    Thank you Alex - Mrs. Jackson is THE BEST !

    Posted by: chris byers at February 8, 2007 9:54 PM

    Rosemarie,
    Thank you for the wonderful video I have watched it a few times.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 9:56 PM

    ##Good night Sweet Prince, rest easy in the arms of the angels tonite.

    ##Nina is trying to stock up, so don't clean her out all at once now. I'm off to the store now so I'll tuck in some nice pears and maybe some carrots with the tops on.

    Good Night All, have a healing night.

    Judy

    Posted by: Judy (Ontario, CA) at February 8, 2007 9:58 PM

    Hay everyone!

    I'm typing this because Mama is sniffing and crying again. We just saw on Equine Heaven that my brother Felix has arrived there and is going to be the Special Mascot for the Triple Crown Halo this year.

    We don't know how Felix got there but we suspect Auntie Cheryl and Barbaro and some other FOBs helped him! We are very, very touched and grateful. Felix will be a great mascot, he loves horses, and he's always dressed for a party!

    All our love and gratitude,

    Lizzie and Mama Susan

    Posted by: Susan E. at February 8, 2007 10:02 PM

    Good Night FOB's,
    Enjoy your evening. We are all finding comfort slowly, but we still remain sad.

    Sweet Spirit Barbaro,
    I see you bouncing on a cloud having the time of your life. Enjoy. I love you, and miss you. Good night. Smooches.

    Mrs. Jackson,
    Don't you worry,we are here for you. May God bless you and Mr.Jackson.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 10:05 PM

    Goodnight sweet angel Barbaro and FOBs. Please light some candles for our boy before going to sleep.

    Believe in his miracle.

    Posted by: Meg from CA at February 8, 2007 10:06 PM

    Susan E.,
    You have the tears going. I wish I could hug you. Please take care.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at February 8, 2007 10:07 PM

    Gosh how I love you Barbaro.

    All,

    I am finally able to watch the videos and tributes to our boy without the tears.

    To see him in the prime of his life, running, being silly, showing off, in all of his glory is now helping me to heal.

    I know that he is doing all of those things again now, free from pain or restraint, free from drugs and doctors, just free.

    Take solace in that and let your heart begin to heal.

    We will continue what he imspired us to start, in his name, in his honor.

    Barbaro Forever!!!

    Posted by: TLC (Laura) at February 8, 2007 10:17 PM

    Precious Barbaro, I'm confident you are in a better world. Love you and miss you.

    Posted by: laura, nc at February 8, 2007 10:20 PM

    Rosemarie, Beautiful tribute to our dearest Barbaro

    Posted by: hilary at February 8, 2007 10:24 PM

    I am devastated about Barbaro-I miss him so very much-I cant even talk about him-does anyone know if they are going to have a memorial forBarbaro-want to send flowers-please let me know?

    Posted by: margaret at February 8, 2007 10:27 PM

    ####
    Marilyn, CA...

    Thanks!!
    Hmmm...now whose account is closer to the truth? Did Mike J get a quote from bArbaro...? :)

    Cheers,
    FT

    Posted by: Friar Tuck at February 8, 2007 10:28 PM

    ####

    Marilyn Thank you That is a lovely story of the roses. I bet bArbaro wouldn't have minded if Jazil had a few petals. He loves everybody.

    Thank you for posting that.

    Cheryl

    Posted by: Cheryl Jones at February 8, 2007 10:37 PM

    It gives new meaning to Barbaro's post-Eclipse motto -- "If I can't eat it, I don't want it." (Sarah from NC)

    Apparently this particular prize was okay by him.

    Posted by: Marilyn/CA at February 8, 2007 10:40 PM

    Leaving work--- Good nite all

    Tomorrow is a new day!

    Love and Kisses Barbaro!

    Posted by: LLeslie In Oklahoma at February 8, 2007 10:41 PM

    Susan E.

    I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. I know how special Felix was to you. May God comfort you.

    Janice
    A Barbaro fan forever

    Posted by: Janice from Florida at February 8, 2007 10:43 PM

    Thank you for keeping us informed of the latest Barbaro news...especially of your conversations with Mrs. Jackson. My heart crys for her especially...he was her baby. She shared him with us...how unselfish....letting us all fall in love with him. Thanks and love to everyone....missing our hero and friend so much.
    Lou Ann

    Posted by: lou ann at February 8, 2007 10:45 PM

    does anyone know if their is going to be a memorial for Barbaro?please let me know-want to send flowers!!!!!!!!!!!!!thanks

    Posted by: margaret at February 8, 2007 10:54 PM

    does anyone know if their is going to be a memorial for Barbaro?please let me know-want to send flowers!!!!!!!!!!!!!thanks

    Posted by: margaret at February 8, 2007 10:55 PM

    UPDATE ON JASON SHANDLER

    I spoke to him for over an hour this morning for his article, mostly just giving informational sources and additional contacts. Thanks to BarbM, DebraWI, ShelleyA, Daryl, and Steve Rei for all the input you gave me (sorry if I forgot anyone). He will probably be getting in touch with some of you.
    Jason is really committed to helping us get the word out, and will be a voice for us until the legislation is passed. If you haven't already, you can check out his blog at ntra.com. He wanted me to thank everyone for all of the emails he has received (more than 200 in the past three days). He has replied to about 80% of them, but as we all know from trying to keep up with the posts here, it can be a tough job to respond to everyone. He hopes you won't hold it against him if he doesn't reply to yours, but be assured that he has read every single one and appreciates them all.

    Stephanie

    Posted by: baxterbee at February 8, 2007 11:01 PM

    Thanks to everyone who posted info on how to contact your respresentatives in Washington. This weekend I am e-mailing them since I don't see anyone from Georgia on a co-sponsor list. Mel Dundon, Alpharetta Georgia

    Posted by: Mel Dundon at February 8, 2007 11:13 PM

    #### Stephanie--Thanks for the update with Jason Shandler. Great news! I'm glad he's in our corner. A big THANKS to him!

    Posted by: Dawn in Omaha at February 8, 2007 11:16 PM

    Stephanie
    It is so great that you have gotten Jason Shandler involved in speaking out against slaughter on the NTRA site. I am really hoping he will bring a whole new group into the effort. Have you sensed a willingness on his part, to post the current action plan so that his regular readers knows what to do if they want to become involved? Calling their legislators and calling the committee leadership? That would be so great if he were willing to get the word out.

    Posted by: Marilyn/CA at February 8, 2007 11:22 PM

    ###

    Margaret

    There are no plans at present for a memorial service per se. Mrs. Jackson's strongest wishes are that those who want to remember Barbaro donate to the fund at UPenn to fight the horrible disease that ultimately took his life, laminitis.

    Here is the link (sorry I can't make it blue). Scroll down on the right to the Fund for Laminitis.

    http://www.vet.upenn.edu/

    We know that Barbaro is rooting for us all to defeat this disease! Thanks for helping. It's the best way in which you can honor his memory.

    Posted by: Jane in CT at February 8, 2007 11:27 PM

    ####Cathy Potter, Thanks! I really appreciate your giving me the benefit of any doubt. Now I have a favor to ask you! Will you please refresh my feeble memory as to the format of the letter you posted last year that we all used to Email the lawmakers? It was really great, and I want to use it again! I have been wracking my feeble old brains out but cannot remember it if it would save my life!

    Thank you again, and Warmest Regards from Laura S. in Snohomish, WA!

    Posted by: Laura S. in Snohomish, WA at February 8, 2007 11:32 PM

    thanks Jane-I appreciate the info-I sent Barbaro 4 dozen red roses every month or two and just wanted to do the same as well as send money to fund-thanks for address-margaret from sc

    Posted by: margaret at February 8, 2007 11:33 PM

    Marilyn:
    When he asked if there was anything specific I wanted to make sure was included, THAT WAS IT! We talked about a few options for presenting the information, and are still working on the exact format to use, but I think he'll make it happen in one form or another. Also, he is willing to update info on his blog as action plans change.
    But I can't take any credit for him speaking out against slaughter, he did that on his own! I just asked if he could give us some long-term support in this fight, and hope he can reach a wider audience for us. When I read his article the day after Barbaro passed, he impressed me as someone who could really help. He understands the issues, and is just as passionate about seeing slaughter end as we all are.
    Stephanie

    Posted by: baxterbee at February 8, 2007 11:35 PM

    Hi FOBs,
    I have been reading on and off during the day but have been swamped at work. I did view Pamela's tribute (without music to avoid tears at work) - thank you! The photos were wonderful and made me smile, though tears also threatened...
    Will e-mail/call reps tomorrow. I also had a link, via a separate e-mail, from the HSUS regarding the slaughter of wild horses and burros. They were protected until 2004 when some loophole was found. Since then they have been slaughtered. The legislation is HR 249 and I e-mailed my reps today.
    Thanks for this site - it really helps as I cannot really share my feelings with many others.
    Does anyone know details about the Dr. R interview?
    Thanks again. Good night FOBs and wonderful Barbaro.

    Karen in TX

    Posted by: Karen at February 8, 2007 11:36 PM

    Stephanie,

    THANKS for all your hard work. I know Jason Schandler will be a tremendous boom for our cause.

    Posted by: ShelleyA at February 8, 2007 11:37 PM

    Anita, Stu, Ruth, Sue H., Cindy, & Jean:

    Thanks so much for the wonderful responses. Yes, Barbaro's loss has been more devastating than I expected. Lost in the Fog, Steve Irwin, Pine Island.. but Barbaro just hit me as much as my father's and my cat's death did. (Had my kitty 17 years) Sound crazy?? I think what hurts me the most is the innocence Barbaro displayed and his zest for life, even while he was hurting. I sure can feel Dr. Richardson's pain. When he teared a bit because he was just happy that Barbaro "was happy" while grazing. That picture of Barbaro happy just warms your heart so greatly, intensely?... jeez sorry I can't find the best words to describe it. Now it's loss, emptiness, void, a great sadness. Just hard to believe this all ever happened. We were so used to the miracle of Barbaro overcoming these obstacles. Why couldn't God have given us just one more???

    The reality of horses going to slaughter, other animals suffering, animal cruelties brings to light that at least Barbaro had an enormous amount of love surrounding him. He has to have been the most loved animal in this world, and still is. So in that respect, I feel slightly comforted. He was loved, and now there are others in need which need our attention.

    I miss and love you Barbaro.

    Posted by: Elana at February 8, 2007 11:40 PM

    Thanks for the responses about why Barbaro wasn't wearing his roses in the winner's circle. Thank you to William for the kind words!!

    I was supremely lucky to see Barbaro many times while he was at Keeneland last April. I was very impressed by his willing attitude and how well behaved he was with everybody. One day an elderly woman posed with him and he stood like a statue. Matz and Brette treated him with utmost respect and kindness. As I've said before, you couldn't wipe the smile off Matz's face when he was walking Barbaro. I hope he remembers the happy times and doesn't let the sadness erase the wonder of what he experienced with a legendary horse.

    Posted by: Kellye at February 8, 2007 11:40 PM

    Hi all FOB~

    Thanks Alex for the good reading articles today. The video tribute was great, we will al ways REMEMBER you Barbaro and what you have done for the sport/industry of horse racing.

    Still miss hearing ACN, but I know your in good hands. I have been staying busy w/ HS issues, the more I stay busy the better.

    Hope Dr. R. is doing O.K., I worry about that guy, I know he so wanted to make Barbaro well, he needs a big FOB HUG!!!
    Good night all, and sweet dreams handsome prince.

    Posted by: Leigh in Austin,TX at February 8, 2007 11:41 PM

    Good Afternoon FOBs,

    Can anyone provide me with a link to the ESPN interview video of Dr Richardson from yesterday? I really want to hear our doc talk to see how he's doing.

    Posted by: Joe at February 8, 2007 11:44 PM

    Hi,
    Great stories and films today. I missed checking in yesterday and will completely next week. I would so appreciate it if someone would take the time to tell me the latest on any gathering on April 29th. I was planning to attend and then read that it was best not to, I fully understand. However, if a group meets elsewhere to honor Barbaro, please let me know. I would need to take time off work and book flights etc. from CA. Here is my e-mail: mblennon1@hotmail.com

    Thank you to anyone who can help me. I do not have a computer at home.

    MBL

    Posted by: Moureen Lennon at February 8, 2007 11:48 PM

    Stephanie
    That is fantastic! The action plans will be the biggest help of all. Thanks so much for thinking to ask him that!

    Kellye
    A photo for you
    Nice try, Michael

    Posted by: Marilyn/CA at February 8, 2007 11:49 PM

    Hello all FOBS

    Just a note to say thank you for all of you being here. You all make it easier to bear the grief of Barbaro being gone. Thank you.

    Elsa

    Posted by: Elsa at February 9, 2007 12:04 AM

    Think of you daily Barbaro Friends. Thank you for all you have done for our Big Guy and for the slaughter and rescue situations. I hope your night is peaceful despite the deep hole we feel in our hearts.

    Hi Big Guy! I miss you more than words can describe. You have stolen my heart and will be there always through so many beautiful memories and pictures I have in my minds eye, heart, and scrapbook I plan to put together soon. I see you running in green pastures and my heart smiles. I wanted that sooooooo much for you. I see your beauty - unsurpassed - and remember your unmatched strength, courage and indominantable spirit. Many hugs and kisses on your beautiful nose. LFB

    Posted by: Phyllis at February 9, 2007 12:05 AM

    ###
    MOUREEN - just send you an email about possible plans for April 29th.

    My email address (so you don't delete it as spam) is mllebutterfly@sbcglobal.net

    Posted by: Nancy in CT at February 9, 2007 12:05 AM

    Alex,

    Thanks for you posts and interesting links. Also, thanks for keeping the site going.

    Missing Barbaro as I know you are.

    Fondly,

    cindy a

    Posted by: cindy a at February 9, 2007 12:12 AM

    Nite again Alex and we all thank you for keeping the site open and the news flowing.

    Sweet Champion...I love you and will never forget you!!!

    (((Susan E)))
    (((Linda H)))
    (((FOB's)))
    See you tomorrow....God willing!

    Posted by: D'Anne in the beautiful foothills of the Smokies at February 9, 2007 12:34 AM

    ####

    Dear ***Susan E**,

    We are so sorry for the loss of your special Felix. We cry with you, dear friend! Felix was so loved by you and he felt that, Susan. You spent so much time with him, comforting him and showering him with love and those precious times with always be with you.

    Take care,
    Daphne

    Posted by: Daphne at February 9, 2007 12:38 AM

    Good evening FOBs, you are close to my heart each day, and I am proud to see the momentum building for the Barbaro Bill. We want to hear ACN for all horses in Bobby's honor.
    BLUE LINKS COMIN' UP!
    Great news about Jason Shandler @ National Thoroughbred Racing Assocition site blogging on the Horse Slaughter legislation... look for hisblog in middle of page:
    www.ntra.com

    NTRA MAIN PAGE


    Link to Penn Vet for how to support Laminitis Fund: www.vet.upenn.edu

    PENN VET

    Posted by: Susan in Saratoga at February 9, 2007 12:47 AM

    Good evening to all.
    I get here late in the day so have been scanning through quickly to catch up. I think i might have provided an incorrect address for the Society for Animal Protection Legislation last night as I see my handwritten note here is not correct. The correct address is: www.saplonline.com. I have been able to link to my senators and representative via the site. They have such useful information -- including info on other options for horses that might otherwise be sold at auction and subsequently slaughtered. It seems like a thoughtful and valuable group. I do want to mention once again that when you connect to the horse slaughter page, there is a deeply disturbing photo inside a slaughterhouse about half way down which you won't see until you begin to scroll.

    Thank you all for the incredible resource you provide. I was a bit disheartened by the debate going on last night regarding and I certainly understand both sides of view. Don't know if there is a right or wrong, just two very different ways of looking at things. But obviously we all must defer to the wishes of our hosts once voiced. It is clear that everyone here speaks from their heart.

    My interepretation of Alex's mention of Dr. R appearing on GMA was that he thought it might happen appear, was not sure when and will surely inform us if he is notified as to when it will be on. I feel impatient too!

    Have checked the Feb. 5 issues of Time, Newsweek and People and not one mention of Barbaro in either. Very surprising! Everyone I have spoken to has said how very sad they were when they heard the news. But perhaps it is better to have thoughtfully crafted pieces than something thrown together in a hurry.

    Someone mentioned gathering in DC. This sounds like a great idea to me.

    I read recently on line that the American Quarter Horse Assoc. disapproved the recent anti-slaughter legislation. Apparently a majority of the horses slaughtered are quarter horses. The Assoc. apparently gains a lot of clout based on the quantity of registered horses over the quality/standards and they must have a large lobbying network. I hope that doesn't sound like I am suggesting that there are any horses of lesser quality in my eyes. The point is that they may encourage excessive breeding and not concern themselves with the resulting issues of there being too many horses than can be cared for properly.

    Love to all.

    Posted by: Elisabeth in CT at February 9, 2007 12:51 AM

    Evening all! Cosmic nickers to Angel Barbaro.

    Lovely articles, lovely video tributes, great to hear that Mrs. J. called Alex.

    Posted by: Sarah From NC at February 9, 2007 12:55 AM

    ####Nancy: thank you so much for sharing the article about the patrolman and his links to the people around Barbaro....It was lovely. thake care: jonna

    Posted by: jonna at February 9, 2007 12:57 AM

    Good night Alex and everyone. I hope you all have a pleasant evening.

    Rest well in Heaven sweet boy. You remain in my heart...always and forever. I love you Barbaro.

    The miracle of Barbaro continues...

    Posted by: Sandie at February 9, 2007 1:09 AM

    Good evening all~ Trying to catch up on all the posts from the past couple of days.... came down with the flu & am still fighting it. I'm disappointed to hear the April 29th meeting has been cancelled but I understand NBC's concerns. It would be nice to go some time & just be where Barbaro was.....

    Sweet colt~ I miss you more than you know and hold your memory close in my heart. But as someone once said when it was time to leave 'We only part to meet again'. Sweet dreams, precious angel, I love you.

    Posted by: Judy in CT at February 9, 2007 1:12 AM

    Elisabeth,

    Barbaro is in this weeks Time, in the Obituaries. It is very dignified. There is a 2 page photo near the back in this weeks almost last weeks people.


    (((Barbaro)))

    Posted by: dannie at February 9, 2007 1:12 AM

    Elisabeth in CT,

    The February 12 issue of People has a nice, albeit short, tribute to Barbaro with a lovely painting of Barbaro and Edgar winning the Kentucky Derby. Also in the Table of Contents is a beautiful picture of Barbaro...one of my personal favorites.

    Posted by: Sandie at February 9, 2007 1:13 AM

    FOB Fans....

    NASA has the cure for not getting lamenitis. Build a spaceship that is big enough to put enough horses on it at one time per se' (actually they would have to build quite a few. Then gather up the horses that have fractures and put them in space for about 3 months until their bones are healed. Then bring them back down and WA LA....... All four legs are as good as new.......

    Renee, Judy, Cal, Deb: I figured out why I was feeling sooooooooooooooo out of it. Barbaro left a prescripion of pain meds on the counter for my leg and ribs. It says on the bottle take one for every 100 pounds of body weight (about 12) per six hours. Well when I had a clearer mind today I read it again and it was not a prescription for me, it was his prescription that he no longer needs because he is now in no pain so he left them for me knowing I would need them. He did leave a note saying read the directions carefully before taking this medication but I guess I read them wrong because I was taking what he was taking geeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeshhhhhhhh NO WONDER!!!!!!

    Now that I know this, I can relax and be normal again......... I slept all day and so now I know not to take more than one because I am only 112 pounds......... I am not 1200 pounds.... LOL!!!!!!!!!

    Barbaro there is food in the kitchen and so you can help yourself. I did the dishes after I figured out what was going on with the meds............. I love you big man and you are my angel.........

    ;-)

    Posted by: Nina at February 9, 2007 1:15 AM

    Okay, this might be a stupid question, but can someone tell me what it means when a name is enclosed with three parentheses on each side, e.g. (((Barbaro))).

    I've seen this for quite a while now, but have never known what it means. Thanks.

    Posted by: Sandie at February 9, 2007 1:16 AM

    It means Hugs!!!!!

    Posted by: Ernie at February 9, 2007 1:19 AM

    You know not to be disrespecful but I feel that Barbaro should have got as much if not WAY MORE national attention than Anna N Smith...

    He captured the nation and showed people the meaning of endurance and love and a positive attitude. She did the opposite..... Sorry but this really makes me mad!!!!!!

    Barbaro..... YOU ARE THE BEST AND YOU HAVE THE HEARTS OF ALL AND ALWAYS WILL...... YOU WILL ALWAYS BE A LEGEND AS SOME WILL JUST FADE TO BLACK........ ;-)

    Posted by: Nina at February 9, 2007 1:20 AM

    Sandie... I am really glad you asked that cause I wanted to know too hahahahahaha!!!!! I was too chicken to ask...............

    Angel Barbaro...... ;-)

    Posted by: Nina at February 9, 2007 1:21 AM

    Thank you Ernie.

    Posted by: Sandie at February 9, 2007 1:21 AM

    Nina,

    That's okay, I can look like an idiot for the both of us...LOL! At least we know what it means now.

    Have a good night.

    Posted by: Sandie at February 9, 2007 1:24 AM

    (((Sandie)))

    You too....... :-)


    Barbaro my ANGEL 4-EVER!!!!!!!!!!! ;-) Please tell Slew that I really need my honey nut cheerios...... I have to have them for my diet... You can take anything else but please please leave those for me K???????

    Posted by: Nina at February 9, 2007 1:29 AM

    (((Nina))) mmmmm

    (((Sandie))) mmmmm

    Posted by: Joe at February 9, 2007 1:35 AM

    Barbaro-miss you bunches. I was sad at work today and went to the candle site and lit candles for you & Dr. Richardson.

    Love You,

    Kim
    Kentucky

    Posted by: Kim at February 9, 2007 1:39 AM

    (((Kim))) mmmm
    (((Barbaro))) mmmmmmmmmmmm

    Posted by: Joe at February 9, 2007 1:42 AM

    (((Nina)))

    (((Joe)))

    I love it!

    Okay, now I'm REALLY saying good night. Have a good one...see ya'll tomorrow!

    The miracle of Barbaro continues...

    Posted by: Sandie at February 9, 2007 1:43 AM

    Hi everyone!

    Following is the letter of support for the anti-horse slaughter bill from Sheriff Joe Arpaio of Maricopa County (Phoenix, AZ)!

    For those of you not familiar with Sheriff Joe, he is commonly known as America's Sheriff! He is tough on crime and not to be fooled with! But as tough as he is, no one is a bigger animal lover
    than Sheriff Joe. He has done many wonderful things for all animals during his long tenure, and now here is one more example of his kindness to our four-legged friends!

    Last Friday, the Arizona FOBs met with Sheriff Joe to ask for his support. He not only agreed to compose a letter to Congress, but he is also putting forth an announcement soon to condemn horse slaughter. This announcement will appear on his website that receives multiple "hits"
    daily from all over the world. He is also planning to do a 20 to 30 second video that will be shared across Arizona with the same announcement.

    Sheriff Joe is a powerful ally and will provide leverage in our efforts to get these bills passed. All U.S. lawmakers know him.

    Daryl will be picking up a hard copy of the letter with his signature in a few days. At that time, we will post his letter on the National Equine Rescue Coalition (NERC) website. Here's what we propose for you to do: please download the letter and send it to your local police
    department (if they employ horses). If you contact the right person, you can even send them the anti-horse slaughter booklet that is now available on NERC (Sheriff Joe and his staff have many copies). Please ask them for a letter of support as well.

    The people who write the laws will lend an ear to the people who uphold the laws. After we post Sheriff Arpaio' letter on NERC, let's do our part to send as many letters as possible from local law enforcement gencies who employ horses to our representatives in Congress! Thanks!

    The Az. FOBs: Barbara, Rosemary, Sherry, Michelle (honorary ember), and Daryl

    To the members of the 110th Congress of the United States of America:

    As Sheriff of the third largest Sheriff' Office in our nation and as law enforcement professional that puts animal cruelty and abuse cases as a top priority, I call on you today
    to end the slaughter of America's horses for human consumption and other purposes.

    I ask you to consider how horses helped build America. Not only did they transport our forefathers from the east coast to the west coast, they have been and remain an invaluable
    tool to the nation's law enforcement agencies. Horses provide entertainment in the arenas and race tracks; they are therapy animals for the mentally challenged as well as for many of our soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan; and perhaps most importantly, horses are the faithful and beloved companions of millions of our constituents.

    And yet, I have been shocked and saddened to learn that thousands of American horses now end up on the dinner plates of wealthy European and Asian consumers as an expensive, exotic gastronomic delight.

    How shameful it is that we as Americans, who would never dream of eating horse meat, would yet allow the export of it as a food source to other countries for the sole purpose of greed.

    Adding insult to injury, it isn't even American companies profiting from this shameful business but rather three foreign companies which are making millions of dollars of profit conducting these slaughter houses here in our country. At the hands of these operators, the very animal which did more to build this great nation than any other, meets a cruel, painful, long and demeaning death.

    Isn't it our responsibility as humans to take care of the creatures which share this earth with us? Or at the very least, can we not honor the American horse with a humane, painless
    and dignified death?

    You members of Congress write and enact the laws of the land. You help set the standards by which we are measured as a nation. Remember - a nation will be judged by how it treats its animals. For that reason, I urge you to enact a law that will honor the American horse and ban the slaughter of equine which have served this great nation since its beginning.

    As Sheriff of Maricopa County for 14 years, I have a good read on the public and how it feels about issues such as animal cruelty. If the American people were to be come acutely aware of these horse slaughter houses - their purpose for being and their methods of killing - your constituents would rightly be as outraged as
    I am.

    You represent the American people. Do what is right for them and for their much-loved horses. Ban the practice of slaughter.

    Sheriff Joe Arpaio
    Maricopa County
    Phoenix, AZ.

    Posted by: Michelle in NC at February 9, 2007 1:44 AM

    Good evening dear FOB's, it's so hard being with Our Boy on earth among us, but thank God all of you are out there. We are all Bobby's family & a might big family at that.
    I'm going to hit the hay now, so have a blessed peaceful night, all.
    Nitey nite Barbaro...I love you so much! XXOO
    Say hello to Fog, Buster, Velvet, Shenandoah, Blue & all the other precious ones.

    Posted by: Cheryl -- NY at February 9, 2007 1:55 AM

    Thank you Alex for the wonderful articles!! I always look forward to hearing about your mornings...and I'm still wanting to see a picture of Hawty Creek. She sounds like quite a character.

    Hey Barbaro sweetie, did you have a fun day? Did you get to gallop and run on those 4 perfect legs?...I know you've taken little Felixkiddeninasoot under your wing. It's time to bed down for the night, now. I see the perfect cloud for your bed, not too hard and not too soft, just right! May the angels sing you to sleep, babycakes! Hugs and smoochies!

    Posted by: Toby at February 9, 2007 2:00 AM

    Good night, precious one
    And flights of angels sing thee to thy rest!
    Good night, Nation!
    Laurie, waiting for your tuck-in.
    Thank you, Martita.
    Thank you, Alex, for everything. You have created a place where we became family.
    Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Jackson.
    Thank you, Dr. Richardson: no one wanted Barbaro to be healed more than you did. What a lucky boy Barbaro is to have you as his doctor! Thank you for what you did for our boy. You're the best.

    Jackie
    FOB forever

    Posted by: Jackie in Arlington VA at February 9, 2007 2:00 AM

    Thank you, Alex. I don't know how we all would have gotten through this without this site. You are a SAINT !

    Good night, Barbaro. I love you.

    Posted by: Barb AZ at February 9, 2007 2:00 AM

    Hiya, FsOB! Alex, thank you for the lovely video link that you posted today. Liekwise, I am very grateful to Rosemarie for the awesome video blue link. Such a treat to once again see Ms. Mocha the Cow trying to give our Sublime One an inter-species kiss!
    To Marilyn, I loved the snippet about the KY Derby roses and Jazil's trying to eat them the day afterwards.
    To Lyn G., Lillian Petroff, & Martita: Beautiful postings, as ever!
    I am glad that designgirl7 has been keeping in touch with someone here. It must be so sad for her, Bobbey's passing so quickly after her father did.
    To Susan E. & Lizzie: Wasn't it awesome to see Felix being mentioned in Equine Heaven?
    Hello to Lou Ann. Wishing all FsOB a good evening! Peace, RMH

    Posted by: Robyn Hoffmann at February 9, 2007 2:04 AM

    Hello Barbaro,

    Did you have an adventurous day today?

    I find myself trying to imagine how you spend your time…

    I picture a most serene setting with tree-lined paths winding like ribbon into a land of watercolor beauty and everlasting love. The new warmth of Spring touches your face and washes over you so much like your treasured baths.

    Here, Love envelops you and draws you ever so near to those you cherish. This is where your dreams are realized. This land of Heaven…

    Honey, here on Earth, you are our Sweet Prince. In Heaven, I know you have been blessed with mighty wings so lush and full that you can carry the weight of your loved ones along with their burdens and race to the land of happiness and blessings…

    Honey, we need your blanket now. Let’s pull it high on your neck so you can snuggle with your nose under the covers. Dream sweet dreams tonight Honey…they are all yours.

    Barbaro, your healing is complete and strength will forever carry you through your days.

    Now please close your eyes... Your world of beauty awaits you, whether you sleep or wake. I love you Honey and I miss you. Good night… XXOOxxo

    ####

    Hello Hope,

    Did you have a day filled with love and a full tummy?

    Hope, I often wonder how your days are going. You have so many loving people in your life. They adore you and your expected foal!

    Are you able to have treats yet? Apples, pears and carrots? Have you tried peppermints?

    Hope, do you want a word of advice? I've heard from a trusted, and loved, source that spearmints are better than peppermints... and carrots really should have the greens on top...

    Let's grab your blanket Little One. We'll pull it up high and gently tuck the ends under.

    Dream sweet dreams tonight Hope. Please close your eyes... Shhhhhh... I love you Hope. Good night. xxoo

    Posted by: Laurie H. in MN at February 9, 2007 2:29 AM

    Has anyone heard from Mike C?

    Posted by: Ashley at February 9, 2007 2:29 AM

    Hi, FOB's!

    Just got back from yoga and met a very sweet woman who works for a bank and the Jackson's are her manager's clients. She talked to Roy Jackson today and I asked how he and Mrs. Jackson are holding up. She said Mr. Jackson is strong, steady, very easy-going and that he was doing well. She felt Mrs. Jackson took Barbaro's transition hard. I told her about my working with the boys - I started to cry when she looked at me and told me my work with the boys is so inspiring. She is going to find out how I can send my children's stories to the Jacksons. If I get the OK, there will only be 2 places they will be sold - the ranch and whatever museum or facility the Jacksons approve. I need prayers to get this publishing project moving.

    Mr. Jackson told her he and Mrs. Jackson are going away for about 2 weeks to decompress and center. Heaven knows they deserve that private time.

    Stephanie, wonderful news about Jason S.

    Tomorrow is ranch day...now I get to do energy healing work on 4 rescued horses...they are all sweethearts...

    Hope everybody is warm...still rather cold here in Chester County.

    Healing, Love, Peace,
    ONS,
    Lyn Gilbert

    Posted by: Lyn Gilbert at February 9, 2007 2:31 AM

    I would still like to encourage everyone to go to the discussion boards on this site. I personally have not gone to the chat rooms, but under the anti-slaughter category, I try to read every post. I have learned a lot and people share some really good info. If that is where your passion lies (and we need a LOT of passion)and you aren't really interested in reading all of the posts on various issues, this is where you can narrow it down.

    Anyway, having said all of that, I do want to share my latest conversation with the Mayor here in Kaufman regarding Crown. She did say they filed an appeal so they are still in business and yes, all of the horses that were there on Monday were slaughtered. It is a horrible situation for everyone who loves horses, for anyone who has a heart. It is painful to drive by that plant everyday but it does serve as a constant reminder that it is real. I saw the horses Saturday. I did not see any of them Tuesday. That, my friends, is a harsh reminder. The enthusiasm we have now to get this passed cannot wane. When any national tragedy occurs, emotions run high, people band together to help each other, everyone has such desires to help, but then as time passes, priorities change and the urgency, the passion seems to die back. Our elected officials know that so we cannot overload them now only to slack off later. We have to make sure they know until the day of the vote how truly important this is.

    I'm not sure how these plants benefit the nation in any form or fashion. Paula Bacon (the mayor) told me yesterday that out of their 12 million revenue, they paid $5.00 (five dollars) in income tax. So what do we not know? Those opposing the bill says their concern is that without slaughter, there will be more abused horses.. but if there are retirement funds set aside, adoption outlets or other options available for unwanted horses,then increased abuse should not be an issue. I would think that people who abuse horses more than likely already do but the horses that slaughterhouses want and pay for are not abused. They are healthy horses, often bought at auctions, sometimes stolen for the sole purpose of selling them to these plants. Older, sick horses they DO NOT pay for - an owner has to pay to leave them there. I admit, I don't know the answers, but I'd rather the people who represent our nation put forth their energies into finding alternatives to slaughter rather than passing this off as unimportant because it is not staring them in the face. I can almost guarantee that most who oppose it have not seen the reality first hand or even seen the pictures or videos and if they have and can still oppose H.R. 503, then they are not the ones I want representing me.

    Please lets stick together! Let's continue daily to contact all we can - I am posting the Dallas/Ft Worth TV station websites and the capitol switchboard phone number. In addition, the www.congress.org website is very easy to navigate.

    Thank you.

    www.wfaa.com
    www.nbc5i.com
    www.cbs11tv.com/
    www.myfoxdfw.com/myfox/
    (202)224-3121

    Posted by: Ginny - Kaufman, TX at February 9, 2007 2:41 AM

    Goodnight Dearest Barbaro. YOU ARE IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER. REST IN PEACE.

    Posted by: hilary at February 9, 2007 2:45 AM

    ## Anna has posted her rough sketch of Dr. Dean and Barbaro. If you want to see it, go to the thread "Artwork Gift for Dr. R" in the General Folder on the Discussion Board, post #43.

    Posted by: Sarah From NC at February 9, 2007 2:45 AM


    Calling it a night early my sinus is acting up due to the extreme cold here....

    KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK BARBARO NATION TILL ALL ARE SAVED.....

    REMEMBER FOB's...LOVE HAS NO BORDERS !!!!!

    GOODNIGHT SWEET BARBARO....I LOVE YOU !!!!!!CARROTS TO YA BRAVE BOY...SPEARMINTS TOO !!!

    Posted by: Maribel at February 9, 2007 2:45 AM

    Lots of positive energy here today, great letter from the sheriff. And good news about Jason from NTRA. Let's keep us this momentum to ban the slaughter of our innocent horses.

    It is hard to read how devastated Dr. Richardson is. I pray he and Edgar have some peace knowing they helped and cared so much for Barbaro. Edgar looked so incredibly sad and down at Gulfstream last Saturday.

    I am superstitous so I am asking for anyone who can spare positive thoughts for my Nala tomorrow. Going for her third chemo treatment and she has had reactions to the first two so we are praying that her taking benydryl before will prevent this or lessen the reaction. She made it through the first two with everyone's prayers, thanks for everyone's concern about her. She has taken the little 8 week old puppy I saved under her wing and is such a good substitute "mom."

    Barb m in Florida

    Posted by: Barb m in Florida at February 9, 2007 2:46 AM

    Hey, Barbaro, perfect angel champion. I remember sending you flowers online last summer, and pausing when the screen asked for your last name. I typed in "Jackson", so early on I understood when people here called you Mr. Barbaro Jackson.

    As I keep reading all these wonderful tributes, I keep being amazed at the string of your qualities: intelligence, gifted athlete, beautiful, desire to win, personable, will to live. What a remarkable being. And the other thing is ... so many who met you talked about your energy, charisma, presence. We knew you were a winner, but what was that intangible thing that awed people who met you? I keep coming back to that. You left people awestruck. What was that essence, that gift of yours?

    We all fell in love with you last May. We love you still. You carry us on your journey still. There are a few times a day, as I'm lighting a candle or just thinking about you when I ask you, "What can I do for you?" You see how we love you?

    Hoping for a sign. Loving Barbaro ... and all the amazing, passionate, kind and good people here.

    Posted by: kathryn in ok at February 9, 2007 2:50 AM

    Barb M in Florida

    I've had that chemo ...I'll say some special prayers for your dear Nala tonight!! God bless you both..she sounds sooo special.((((((((NALA)))))))))

    Posted by: Maribel at February 9, 2007 2:50 AM

    Barb
    Praying for Nala

    Good Night Sweet Barbaro

    Posted by: Jeri at February 9, 2007 3:00 AM

    # Go Sheriff Joe!

    Posted by: Sarah From NC at February 9, 2007 3:03 AM

    Good evening, FOBs. Just a quick check in. My job has sucked all the juice out of me this week and there is still one more day.

    just read Joe's blog at www.tbfriends.com

    great read !

    Posted by: chris byers at February 9, 2007 3:20 AM

    FOBs,

    Here's a letter that I just received from Congressman Howard Berman.

    Thank you for contacting me to show your support for H.R. 503. I
    agree with you about the need to protect horses from slaughter in the
    United States and subsequent human consumption overseas.

    According to the USDA, over 90,000 horses were slaughtered in the
    U.S. in 2005 for foreign consumption in Europe and Asia.
    Additionally, thousands more are believed to have been transported
    live over long distances to be slaughtered abroad. Horses shipped to
    slaughterhouses often endure inhumane conditions where they receive
    no food, water, or rest. Tragically, many owners are unaware that the
    horses they have sold may end up bound for a slaughterhouse.

    In 2005, I voted for an amendment that prohibited the use of tax
    dollars to fund the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
    inspection and approval process, effectively shutting down horse
    slaughter plants. Despite overwhelming support for this amendment
    from both chambers of Congress and the public, the text of the
    amendment was changed to allow horse slaughter to continue.
    Therefore, passage of H.R. 503 is necessary to protect American
    horses and enact a permanent ban.

    H.R. 503 would ban the slaughter of horses in the United States for
    foreign consumption and also prohibit the trade and transport of
    horseflesh and live horses for this use. I cosponsored this legislation
    because I believe it is fundamental to ending this practice. Although
    the bill passed the House of Representatives last Congress on
    September 7, 2006 by a vote of 263-146, it failed to pass the Senate. I
    look forward to making this bill a law in this Congress.

    Again, thank you for your support of H.R. 503. Please continue to
    stay in touch.

    Sincerely,

    HOWARD L. BERMAN
    Member of Congress


    Posted by: Patti in Sherman Oaks, CA at February 9, 2007 3:20 AM

    Ginny,

    Most of us have been in this for the long haul. You can be sure that we're not going anywhere. It is most important that we speak up now while we have the national media attention but we will carry on even when the cameras go off.

    I spoke to Mayor Bacon several months ago and she knows how committed we are. Please let her know that hasn't changed!! We will see this through until the slaughter houses are closed.

    Let the people of your town know that they are not alone!!

    Posted by: ShelleyA at February 9, 2007 3:24 AM

    FOBs,

    Here's the letter that I received from Senator Feinstein. California is and has been with us.

    Thank you for writing to me to express your opposition to the
    practice of horse slaughter for human consumption. I appreciate hearing
    from you and welcome the opportunity to respond.

    Like you, I believe this practice is wrong, and was pleased when
    Californians passed a state initiative prohibiting it in 1998. As you may
    know, I was a cosponsor of an amendment which aimed to stop this
    practice by withholding funds for U.S. Department of Agriculture
    (USDA) inspections under the Federal Meat Inspection Act. I, along
    with several colleagues, sent a letter to the USDA urging the agency to
    stop these inspections and effectively end this practice. Unfortunately,
    the USDA has ruled that horse slaughterhouses may continue operation
    under a fee-based inspection process to abide by the Federal Meat
    Inspection Act.

    I have also cosponsored the "Virgie S. Arden American Horse
    Slaughter Prevention Act" (S. 311), which would effectively end horse
    slaughter for human consumption in the United States. This bill has been
    referred to the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation
    Committee, of which I am not a member. Please know that I will work
    with my colleagues to ensure passage of this bill.

    Again, thank you for writing to me about this issue. I hope you
    will continue to keep in touch on matters of importance to you. If you
    have any additional comments or questions, please feel free to contact
    my Washington, D.C. office at (202) 224-3841.


    Sincerely yours,

    Dianne Feinstein
    United States Senator


    Posted by: Patti in Sherman Oaks, CA at February 9, 2007 3:25 AM

    Laurie..

    Peppermints????? Hahahahahahahahaha!!!!! He has cleaned out my, Renee, Judy, and probably Cal by now with the peppermints. They have been dissapearing every night. I am keeping a close eye on my honey nut cheeros because I know Slew is just waiting till I fall asleep on that. I can't figure out where to put them either. I have three great big boxes and I don't mind if they come down here and have A bowl of ceral but they usally take all of it and leave me one or two tablespoons full with a note that says "thanks Nina... you are the best, please go stock up on the candy, we are running out up here".

    HA!

    Love U Barbaro and U are truly MY ANGEL!!!!! ;-)

    Posted by: Nina at February 9, 2007 3:30 AM

    Good night, my angel boys. Missing you both so much....

    Good night, Barbaro Nation. Thank you again for your warm wishes and the beautiful surprise of my baby going to Equine Heaven !

    Love to all,

    Susan
    Lizzie

    Posted by: Susan E. at February 9, 2007 3:33 AM

    SHELLEYA - THANK YOU! A LOT OF PEOPLE IN THE DALLAS/FTWORTH AREA DON'T EVEN KNO WHERE KAUFMAN IS, MUCH LESS WHAT GOES ON HERE. WE ARE A LITTLE COMMUNITY WITH A GIANT PROBLEM! I DRIVE IT EVERYDAY - SO CLOSE TO SO MANY PEOPLE WHO CAN HELP - THAT'S WHY I POSTED THE LOCAL TV NETWORKS WEBSITES. PEOPLE JUST NEED TO KNOW.

    Posted by: GINNY - KAUFMAN, TX at February 9, 2007 3:44 AM

    Aurora Borealis....oh, sweet boy, is that you I see amidst the constellations this cold Winter's night??

    The meadow's at rest, night has brought the stars upon us.....we look up, we see your eyes twinkling
    smiles of grandeur....for you know sweet Barbaro our work on this day is done.....,

    and soon dawn will come again, and alas those stars will give way to the sunlight rising in the distance upon the meadow......

    thereupon the silouette that is you, true champion.....bursting with pride, in all God's glory.....

    free to run, restored to life, shedding truth and courage, your example, upon those who will always love and admire you,

    our dearest Barbaro,

    Rest easy tonight, Big Fella.....for all you are now and forever....

    BELIEVE IN BARBARO!!

    Posted by: Ken Z in NY at February 9, 2007 3:50 AM

    Alex thanks for sharing your conversation with Mrs. Jackson.

    Ruth Stacey, thanks for the blue link to the article PD. OH seems to be lagging behind co-sponsoring the anti slaughter bills, I have sent numerous e-mails, hope we can get more on board.

    Equine Heaven-excellent as always.

    Take care all

    Posted by: Michelle-GBI-NE OH at February 9, 2007 3:52 AM

    Hi Ginny,

    I live in the DFW area, too. Everyone I talk to has never hear of the slaughterhouses. It is very disheartening. I have contacted all the area TV stations, but they aren't interested in persusing the story. It only gets headlines when anything happens with the legal cases like 2 weeks ago Friday. I even asked one station to take a different approach and do a story on horses that were saved from slaughter by a local rescue. There wasn't too much interest. Jim Getz at DMN is the only one who continues covering the story, but he never gets involved with the antislaughter fight. I just really can't belive how disinterested the media are. Thank goodness for Jason at NTRA!

    Posted by: Patty in Dallas at February 9, 2007 3:57 AM

    Alex,

    I have a fund rasiing idea...Is Sabrina willing to sell us a copy of your pic with Barbaro? I think many of us would buy it!

    For some reason her e-mail address won't work for me.

    Posted by: MJ at February 9, 2007 4:00 AM


    Loved the "oh crap" description from this morning!

    Who would name a beautiful TB grandma?

    Posted by: MJ at February 9, 2007 4:02 AM

    Hay Laurie H,

    Thanks for the tuck in again. He was surrounded by love while he was here. I think it has only grown since he has left.

    Run with the wind, Barbaro!!

    Posted by: Patty in Dallas at February 9, 2007 4:03 AM

    PATTY - MAYBE IT TAKES MORE THAN ONE! I'M WORKING HARD ON IT THIS WEEKEND AND WILL CONTINUE TO. BUT IF WE CAN GET A WHOLE LOT OF FOB'S TO CONTACT THEM, THEN MAYBE, JUST MAYBE IT WILL HELP! WE HAVE TO FIND A WAY TO HEIGHTEN PEOPLES AWARENESS!

    WE CAN'T BLAME PEOPLE IF THEY DO NOT KNOW!

    Posted by: GINNY-KAUFMAN, TX at February 9, 2007 4:05 AM

    LEXINGTON, KY - “How can you promote what you degrade?” is the question of three-time Kentucky Derby-winning breeder, Arthur Hancock. “We claim that Kentucky is the ‘Horse Capital of the World,’ and yet we continue to turn a blind eye to the plight of horses in peril.”

    Hancock and his wife Staci own Stone Farm in Paris, Kentucky, which bred Kentucky Derby winners Gato Del Sol, Sunday Silence and Fusaichi Pegasus. Both are on the frontline of the equine welfare/anti slaughter movements and highly involved in the new Kentucky Equine Humane Center (KEHC) which is getting ready to open its doors to a waiting list of horses who are in immediate need of shelter.

    Horses of all breeds in Kentucky who are currently in life-threatening situations will receive the gift of a second chance at KEHC. Assistance from the public will be crucial to getting the center ready to open for these horses.

    KEHC is a first-of-its-kind facility, established with the specific goal of providing owners with a humane option when they need to give up their horses. The Center is located on a tranquil, 50-acre horse farm just outside of Lexington, Kentucky, which will be a safe refuge for at-risk horses of all breeds and disciplines. No horse in a precarious situation will ever be turned away.

    “This is an opportunity for all of us to play a role in ensuring the welfare and humane treatment of horses here in the Horse Capital of the World,” said KEHC President, Staci Hancock.* “We want to make certain that a humane option is always available for horses who are currently in grave danger of being sent to the slaughterhouse.”

    John Nicholson, Executive Director of the Kentucky Horse Park, site of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in 2010, observed, “A tremendous responsibility comes along with the privileges of being the Horse Capital of the World, so our industry and state need to make certain we are setting the highest possible example when it comes to equine welfare. Unfortunately, there is a vast, urgent need for shelters that will take all breeds of horses. The Kentucky Horse Park is contacted on a regular basis by people who are desperate to find a safe place for horses who are in a vulnerable situation. We are very happy that the Kentucky Equine Humane Center will ease suffering by meeting some of those needs.”

    Lori Neagle, KEHC Executive Director stated, “We’re asking the public to support these horses by donating specific items that we need to heal and help each one.” She continued, “One extremely easy option is to donate items from our wish list.”

    Urgently needed items include four run-in sheds, a tractor and manure-spreader. Other needed items include: feed, halters, lead ropes, grooming supplies, nutritional supplements, bush hog mower, weed eaters, desk and office chairs, filing cabinet, digital camera, wheelbarrows, brooms, pitch forks, rakes, heavy duty hoses, stall mats, run-in sheds, bedding, blower and water troughs.

    Farm equipment and horse supplies can be picked up at the donor’s farm by a KEHC volunteer.

    All financial and in-kind donations are tax-deductible. Monetary donations will be received through the KEHC Fund at Bluegrass Community Foundation, 250 West Main Street, Suite 1220, Lexington, KY 40507.

    For more information on the Kentucky Equine Humane Center or to make arrangements for equipment and supply pick-ups, please call Lori Neagle, Executive Director, at (859) 881-5849.

    *KEHC Board Members: President - Staci Hancock; Vice President - Joan Ciampi; Treasurer - Ralph S. “Bud” Watson II, CPA; Secretary - Meg Jewett; Susan Bryson, Esq; Tom E. Daugherty, DVM; Arnold Kirkpatrick; James Smith, DVM; Advisory Board: Josephine Abercrombie, Alice Chandler, Diane M. Curry, Tracy and Carol Farmer, Greg and Becky Goodman, John Hettinger, Chris and Judy McCarron, Lori Kirk-Wagner, Congressman and Mrs. Ed Whitfield, Mary Lou Whitney and John Hendrickson, Nick and Kim Zito.

    KEHC Mission: The Kentucky Equine Humane Center’s mission is to provide humane treatment and shelter while working as a clearinghouse to seek adoptive homes for all of Kentucky’s unwanted horses, regardless of breed. The center also is committed to educate the public and raise awareness for responsible equine ownership so that fewer horses end up in crises. Its goal is to work with and serve as a model for organizations with the same mission in other states: to save America’ horses from needless destruction.

    Second posting I've seen today that KY is helping to SAVE AMERIC"S HORSE"S.
    ***WAY TO GO KY. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK***

    Verna1(In Cincinnati,any other Cincy FOB's we need to get together)
    Sleep well all our message is getting around!!!!!

    Posted by: Verna1 at February 9, 2007 4:07 AM

    ###

    Barb M., love and prayers for Nala.

    You spoke of Edgar...one of the images I can't shake is the one of him from the Breeder's Cup when he had won the Distaff on Round Pond and the camera showed him looking backwards over his shoulder at where Pine Island must have fallen. He had to be reliving that whole experience again. He just kept looking, and looking, seemingly oblivious to the fact that he had won, ironically, with Michael's horse. Oh what an ironic year it was!

    Goodnight FOBs, sweet dreams of the big guy in the sky...

    Posted by: Jane in CT at February 9, 2007 4:07 AM

    I cannot access the article "America's Pony" through Alex's link. Can someone please forward it to me or blue link it? Thank you! Addy is
    girlcat830@yahoo.com

    Barb M,

    I will keep you and Nala in my thoughts and prayers tomorrow. Nala is a fighter, like someone else we know and love!

    Posted by: Susan E. at February 9, 2007 4:08 AM

    My deepest gratitude to you Alex, and to all the FOB, from a steadfast visitor to this site. Nothing in my life has the vaguest connection to horses and racing, save my life-long love of the beautiful creatures. After a terrible day, reading that someone like Mrs Jackson, Dr Richardson, the New Bolton staff are inspired by love of that wonderful horse is a most welcome balm. Signed: a soul-weary visitor in Oregon

    Posted by: Nancy Price at February 9, 2007 4:12 AM

    Aurora Borealis....oh, sweet boy, is that you I see amidst the constellations this cold Winter's night??

    The meadow's at rest, night has brought the stars upon us.....we look up, we see your eyes twinkling
    smiles of grandeur....for you know sweet Barbaro our work on this day is done.....,

    and soon dawn will come again, and alas those stars will give way to the sunlight rising in the distance upon the meadow......

    thereupon the silouette that is you, true champion.....bursting with pride, in all God's glory.....

    free to run, restored to life, shedding truth and courage, your example, upon those who will always love and admire you,

    our dearest Barbaro,

    Rest easy tonight, Big Fella.....

    for all you are now and forever, true friend, guradian of life....

    BELIEVE IN BARBARO!!

    Posted by: Ken Z in NY at February 9, 2007 4:12 AM

    OOOPS, typo
    AMERICA"S HORSE"S

    Posted by: Verna1 at February 9, 2007 4:12 AM

    Laurie H,

    Thank you again! for the tuck in.

    You do it to me every night.

    I kid myself into believing I am over the worst of his passing. I even manage to get thru a whole day with out any tears. Then I read your tuck-in and I find myself reduced one more time to a state of needing Kleenex and mopping up big drops of water as they role down my cheeks. Will this ever end? I hope not, this is some of the healthiest sweetest emotion I have had the privilege of ever owning.

    Posted by: Judy in WA at February 9, 2007 4:16 AM

    ###
    KEN Z - ok, mister, two nights in a row??? I've been on the phone for 3 hours, just checked in here for the last time tonight...and I see you've done it again! This one, for some reason, didn't make me sob like last night's, but rather brought a rather "peaceful, easy feeling."
    Thanks!

    Posted by: Nancy in CT at February 9, 2007 4:51 AM

    Prayers and hugs for Nala, the sweet little foster mom! I hope everything goes smoothly for you tomorrow, Nala...and for your mom, too!

    Posted by: Nancy in CT at February 9, 2007 4:57 AM

    ###
    Nancy, thank you for your peaceful inspiration :)

    Posted by: Ken Z in NY at February 9, 2007 5:03 AM

    ###
    JUDY IN CT - check the Forum for alternate plans for April 29th...

    Posted by: Nancy in CT at February 9, 2007 5:04 AM

    Don't know if this has been posted or not. But, zazzle.com has Barbaro T-shirts and other things. Looked at them all and did not find anything bad.
    They do have a t-shirt w/ Barbaro w/ a candle on it, several in fact.
    Goodnite all,
    Love,
    Verna1

    Will try to remember to repost tomorrow.. ooops, it is tomorrow, later today then.
    Off to bed.

    Posted by: Verna1 at February 9, 2007 5:11 AM

    ### Laurie,
    Now it's time for you to dream your sweet dreams. Pull your blanket tight and tuck the ends in and stay warm and thank you for the love you have shared with us. Our boy is warm all the time now and he knows he will always be loved. Hope is warm and loved, too. We will all look over her. So sleep tight and take care now.
    Kathy

    Posted by: KathyinVa at February 9, 2007 5:21 AM

    Alex,

    Thanks for the links to the articles - very bittersweet. And, thanks, once again, for all you are doing for us! I know you must be hurting, as you were one of the fortunate few to actually be "hands on". My heart goes out to you.

    Barbaro is in a much better place now, and watching over us all.

    It still amazes me that one very special horse - not human - has created such a movement to better this world we live in! This is proof positive that animals DO make a difference! I'm very thankful to be part of this experience and plan to keep it up & do more than I've done in the past.

    Much love & respect to all FOB's!

    -Julie Z. (in Houston)

    Posted by: Julie Z. at February 9, 2007 5:30 AM


    Good night sweet Barbaro.

    Posted by: Deborah Anderson/ CO at February 9, 2007 5:33 AM

    As always, thank you Alex for this website and everything you post. Look forward to all the articles on our big guy. I'm going to order the book you recommended tomorrow. the video was great. Still brings a few tears. It's still hard to believe that his tremendous talent is gone. But never forgotten. We will get the Barbaro Bill passed with luck and then we will be able to move on to that evil laminitis. I have learned so much about this disease that I was unaware of. Visited my own horse Bear Creek today and went for a little ride. It was very therapeutic. Can't wait to go again tomorrow. Unfortunately he is 25 miles away and in our wonderful Puget Sound traffic the commute can take a while. Good night all and lots of carrots for our Barbaro. Marcia S

    Posted by: Marcia S. at February 9, 2007 5:36 AM

    My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, now and forever.
    Run with the angels, honey!
    Love you so much!
    always, Lou Ann in Pennsylvania

    Posted by: Lou Ann, Pennsylvania at February 9, 2007 6:58 AM

    ########
    Lou Ann...How are you doing???????

    Posted by: Ernie at February 9, 2007 7:10 AM

    I could not pass the opportunity to share with those who do not have the opportunity to read Joe at TB Friends' journal - today's testimonial from one of "TB Friends" friends...

    ------------------

    Thursday, February 8th... We receive many requests. New readers asking for pictures from long ago, so on the morning journal there have been photos of past adoptions. You ask for better details about life on a rescue ranch, so lately I have been writing about all the needy horses we deal with each day. You want to know more about our friends who help us. The people who are the main ingredients to tbfriends. So I have asked them to write one paragraph for upcoming morning journals. Our vet Lisa Wallace said sure. Jodi Tuft said sure. Our shoer Tim Gee is shy, but maybe. Gary Duncan hauls horses for us and he said you bet, but we must forgive his spelling. Brian Gill fixes our computer, he hauls rescued horses, and brings us food. Brian said oh good grief. Tbfriends gets 5 hits a day, and 3 of them are from Cathy. But then Brian said okay, just as long as no one reads his paragraph. So there will be one morning in the near future where Brian will write something, but you must promise not to tune in.

    There are others who are main parts of our lives, and we will also ask them to write one paragraph. An introduction of sorts. Maybe a story...

    Sarah McDowell is 22 years old, and we met her when she was 15. Sarah is my go to person. She babysits our ranch if Cathy and I go out. She organized the public trips to killer pens. Sarah works full time in a restaurant and goes to college. She rides her gelding Jupiter almost everyday. When Hurricane Katrina hit Sarah was on a plane the next morning, and for almost a month she worked at a sheep farm. Taking care of lost and wounded livestock. Sarah has a boyfriend, his name is Josh, and they met on our ranch. Josh treats her like a princess, and he better. Sarah also agreed to write one paragraph. Here we go:

    I learn from every single person I meet. I honestly believe God gave each of us a game plan. I know I am suppose to be with animals. I have known this since I was three. Joe and Cathy welcomed me into their home, and they practically raised me. I fall in love with all the horses who come to their ranch. I vision myself owning each one. Four years ago I found Jupiter at a feed lot in Turlock. He is a tall gray gelding with a racing tattoo. I could not leave him there. Money is always tight, and Jupiter was $460.00 to rescue. I cried in his pen. Joe tells me not to cry at feed lots. It pisses off the killers, and they will kick us out. But I could not leave Jupiter. The way he looked at me. The way he melted my soul. All night I walked my tiny apartment. Calling credit card companies and asking for a loan. I had not spoken with my dad since I was 13, but I woke him up and begged for money. When my dad found out the money was for a horse he hung up. I was sick to my stomach. In the morning Joe calls and says he needs help. He wants me to hold horses while the farrier does trims. I was standing in the yard when Joe comes from behind his house leading Jupiter. It is impossible to tell you my exact feelings at that moment. I know I bawled like a baby. And I remember how Jupiter put his head on my shoulder and sighed. 4 years Jupiter and I have been together. He teaches me so much. His love is pure. This is a long paragraph. I only want to say one more thing. Joe is an amazing cook. He told me to say this.

    Sarah McDowell

    --------------

    Daily tears, happen here, there, and everywhere...

    Posted by: Shelley in CA at February 9, 2007 8:35 AM

    Wonderful letter by Sheriff Joe today, which I have copied and distributed...

    I also today loved Alie from Kennett Florists' comment in the local newspaper article about them referenced above ---

    "Barbaro may have run for the roses, but he also ran in our hearts."

    Thank you, Alie and Rachel and all the rest, you have been a revelation and touched us all with your kindness, compassion and devotion throughout... and as Gretchen Jackson said, we don't stop here.

    As Lyn mentioned above, and as we all secretly know, Gretchen Jackson is devastated but she is continuing to involve herself with everyone who cared about Barbaro, even possibly as the way to keep the connection to her wonderful horse alive as it should be... and to continue the work whose importance Barbaro highlighted, by his presence and through the raised consciousness and compassion demonstrated and requested by his family. It is quite amazing to me that someone beset with such grief can continue to reach out, even on a daily basis, when others would understandably hide to salve their wounds, even be rendered immobile with the stark reality. The strength and courage demonstrated especially by Gretchen Jackson is worthy of our utmost respect and I bow to her with all admiration. The least we can do is follow her lead, in her honor, in his name...

    Posted by: Shelley in CA at February 9, 2007 8:51 AM

    Good night, sweet Barbaro. You know, for a bit there I thought I wouldn't be here first thing in the morning, and the last thing at night. But you know what... I've been wrong before.

    Ro and Brady/Rosemary, your video is classic and gorgeous, one for the ages, and so sweet... Your choices were beautiful and I found myself smiling, gently smiling and remembering. How new a feeling. Thank you.

    Good morning, Alex, and thank you...

    Posted by: Shelley in CA at February 9, 2007 8:58 AM

    Shelley in Ca.,

    Beautifully stated about Mrs. Jackson!! She is admired greatly and by many! She exemplifies what all Thoroughbred owners should be! We will prevail in memory of Barbaro! Thanks for being so eloquent!



    All FOB's,



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    jock4hire (lj)

    Posted by: lj (jock4hire) at February 9, 2007 9:26 AM

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