Good Tuesday morning Alex, Barbaro and FsOB

It's heartbreaking to read that Fitch died. Such cruelty is beyond my comprehension.

I'll check back later for the list of Representatives to call today. I hope everyone takes the time (very little required) to do this -we need to work together to get the horse sluagherhouses closed.

Rosie cam down. I hope all is well there.

Janice
A forever fan of Barbaro

Good morning FOBs, Alex and sweet angel Barbaro,

Hold onto your hats, folks! It's brutal here in the northeast. The cap to our chimney flew off at 3:30 this morning (next to the bedroom window), bounced on the roof and landed on the deck. Nights like this I wonder how the deer and other wildlife deal with such cold and wind.

Received my Blood Horse yesterday in the mail. Oh, my. Fresh tears again. If you haven't ordered one, this is a must have.

Bundle up today, my friends!

I'm so sad to hear of the passing of Fitch. I hope the perpetrators of this disgusting crime rot in hell where they belong. Big Boy you show Fitch the way. He's a good boy who never had a chance. Give him comfort from all of us.

R.I.P. Fitch....Give my love to Barbaro.

I rushed to my computer this morning to see the updates on Fitch. My heart is broken to read that he passed away. RIP blessed little one. At least now you will know only love and warmth, peace and calm. Please God hold him dear and close.
Blessings to Jen and all who gave their all to help Fitch. Sometimes when the most inhumane act happens, we also see humanity at it's best surround the one in need.
Run with the wind Little Fitch!
jan

My heart breaks for that poor little boy! I know he is with Barbaro now.

Good morning, Alex/Fobs/Barbaro in heaven,

Poor Fitch,anyone that could hurt an animal is the lowest form of life on the face of the earth,
i wish & pray they capture these creatures,or maybe they will rot in HELL,

poor fitch...death is too good for the terrorists that did that to him...A life of exreme misery is my wish...God bless you Fitch.

Dear Barbaro, please show little Fitch how to run with the wind!!!

####
Alex, Please look up the IP Address on the following time stamps:
Cal at March 6, 2007 3:37 AM
Cal at March 6, 2007 4:49 AM
Cal at March 6, 2007 5:06 AM

I will go as far as to say, that if they are not mine remove them. If you find that they are mine, well then I'm doing some very strange things in my sleep, and I don't deserve to post.

I can guarantee these are not mine. I use 2 computers to post, 0ne at work & one at home.

Just when I was starting to feel comfortable posting again, this has to happen.

####
Nina, I never have, Nor will I ever accuse you of anything.

I'm am so sorry to hear about Fitch. I hope the gates of Hell open up and suck down the people who did this act. Sometime I'm ashamed to be part of mankind.

I wish I knew how to contact Alex about the above issues. Does anyone know.

Cal

On the left it says contact us. Click on that for Alex's email.

********Anti Slaughter Postcard Update********

Hi everyone-

Planning to professionally print a substantial number of anti slaughter postcards and make them available for 50% of cost + shipping!

* Please send an email to:
antislaughterlobby@earthlink.net with the quantity and your mailing info if you would like to participate.

* The cards will be 4X6, card stock, glossy on the front and cost will be between .3 and .18 a piece depending on the total quantity printed. They will be offered in multiples of 25 and should take approximately 2 weeks to print.

The more we order the cheaper they are!

* Go to Anti Slaughter Issues, POSTCARD OFFER thread on the forum to see the card design. If you can't access the forum, email the above address and I'll send you the files.

* As with the new approach of targeting our calls and faxes to the politicians, a coordinated mailing campaign should maximize our impact. More news on that front as we get further along.

Looking forward to your emails!

####
Carla, Thank you. Oh, I got to tell you I never thought "I" would have an imposter. I guess I should feel "Honored" especially since I don't contribute a whole lot here. LOL

### Cal , you DO contribute, that's why you were targeted. Dark ones always try to destroy the Light.

Thank you, Alex, for being there...

For Barbaro, for Fitch....call, fax, e-mail. We have to save our horses in whatever we can. I cannot relate to the brutality of slaughter and independent acts of inhumane treatment. It's easy to get discouraged by such disgusting behavior by "humans". But we have to be strong and fight the positive fight to help as many of our beloved horses as we can...to free them and give them the lives they deserve.

Pam

Hiya, Alex and FsOB! Alex, please stay warm and safe today. I was alarmed to read about your near mishap yesterday.

In memory of dear little Fitch, I am working to get more people to contact our 2nd CT District's Congressman to ask him to sign on as a co-sponsor of HR 503. If any FOB in SC could keep us apprised as to whether the people who did this to Fitch are brought to trial, I would be most grateful. I would be eager to write to the judge if/when a conviction takes place, asking for the imposition of the most stringent sentence allowable by SC law. This type of senseless violence is very hard for me to hear about; it's just unfathomable.

Sending you all condolences today, especially Jen and Tracy. Peace, RMH

Good morning.

I was just heartbroken to hear that Fitch passed away. But I take some comfort in the fact that he was surrounded by great love and caring at the end. My heart goes out to Jen and Tracy and all involved. At least now he is in Heaven with our other Equine Friends and can now be at peace.

Also, a great comfort to me is how wonderfully compassionate and caring my fellow FOBs are. We all really took on Fitch as one of our own.

Now....does anyone have any updates on Rosie? That would be so great if she could foal soon (or if she already had her foal). What a happy event to balance the sadness.

I hope everyone has a safe day.

####
Cal, sorry that happened 2u. Hope Alex can find the culprit. There are always those who look to tear apart the fabric of this site.

Comment about Voinovich....same problem, he is a hard sell, he is the only OH rep that did acknowledge my e-mails even if it was just a form letter at least it was something. If he doesn't come on board soon, he will loose my vote.

###Cal
oops meant didn't respond.

From Little Fitch who is in hevvin on how to treat his brothers and sisters:

Give me food and drink; and care for me. And when the day's work is done, shelter me. Give me a clean bed and leave me not too small a place in the stable.

Talk to me, for your voice often takes the place of reins; be good to me and I shall serve you more gladly and love you.

Don't tear at the reins. Don't reach for your crop when we come to a hill; don't beat me or hit me if I misunderstand. Don't think me disobedient if I fail your will; perhaps there is something wrong with my harness or my hooves. A bad tooth-you know how that hurts.

Don't tether me too tight and don't crop my tail, my only weapon against mosquitoes and flies.

Let me ask this of you in the name of Him who was born in the stable.

And when the time comes, Dear Master, when I am no longer of use to you, don't let me starve, or freeze, nor sell me.

Don't give me to a stranger who works me slowly to death and feeds me not; but be kind and prepare me for a quick and merciful end.

God will reward you for it, now, and through eternity. And I shall come to you, always...... running.

To all:

I was up in the middle of the night last night catching Fitch updates and caught some of the "imposter" comments. It is beyond my understanding how anyone can do this to such a wonderful, amazing, kind group who care so much about horses, people and other animals. I hope none of you let this stop you from coming to this site and doing good. I faithfully go to this site at least 5 times a day and am so inspired after reading your posts.

Nancy in IL

I am so sorry for the loss of Fitch. Please call and fax for Barbaro, Fitch and all horses!

#################################

Rosie Update 4:30am PST

She still has not foaled but I believe soon. All is well with her, baby has been moving, water has not broken, and she is full of milk. As I type this she is lying down resting. Spoke with my veterinarian last night and he told me to relax and quit being a nervous nellie. He told me that many foals are late for some reason in our area. Once Bobby's Lil Angel is born, I will have him out to complete exam on Mama and Baby.

Thank you all for your support, and please once again let us keep calling and faxing. I hope that in my lifetime we will see the end of abuse and neglect.

Stephanie

Stephanie - Thanks so much for the update on Rosie! This is such a happy thing to look forward to, especially after the loss of Fitch.

####
Nancy, Not going anywhere. I just walk right through Trolls, as they are hollow.

Thank all of you for your re-enforcements this morning.

Harriette, I told you yesterday that you always put me in a good place. I'm there again.

Stephanie
Thank you for the update.

Darling Fitch- Rest In Peace.

I am heartbroken.

Rosie - Will have no cam at work but will check often for updates

Alex, thank you for your updates on the racing world. We certainly appreciate everything you do.

I am devastated to hear that Fitch has left us...a life cut short by heartless humans...I know it happens everyday but it's no less heartbreaking.

PLEASE CALL AND FAX YOUR SENATORS AND REPS TODAY, and follow our strategy that Debra and Shelley post. Please do it in loving memory of our dear Barbaro.

God Bless little Fitch, may he run in the wind and be happy in heaven. How can any one be so curel, they will answer to God for that they have done.

Goood morning everyone, keep calling and faxing your Sen. and Rep.

Harriette, thank you for the wonderful words.

Try to have a good day.
Stay safe everyone.

Fitch,

Thank you for saving me. Please continue to love me and watch over me big bro from your heavenly forever home. I promise to live a life big enough for us both. And I will also love and watch over Jen & Tracy for the both of us here at our earthly forever home.

Your best brother ever, Abercrombie

PS: Are Barbaro and the Fog really as fast as they say?

Good morning all. What sad news to hear about Fitch. I never had the nerve to look at his pictures, but I can only imagine too well the horror he endured.

There is something to be said for justice administered in the days of the wild, wild West when a man's horse was his most valued possession...and woe to the scoundrel that messed with his horse.

Good morning Alex and FOB's

So sad to hear the news about Fitch. There is a place in hell for such evil. I'm so sorry Jen, Tracy and all who cared for Fitch. You are in my prayers. He is free and whole now, running with Barbaro.

####

Thanks for the update Stephanie...looking forward to Rosie's baby!

Let us continue our efforts today to end animal abuse.

God bless all of you.

Barbaro forever in our hearts..

Dear Sweet Fitch.. PLease have fun and run with your new best Pal Barbaro. He will teach you to be a big strong horse. He will bring you with him when he comes to talk with us in the night. He will show you that there is LOVE.

For those of you who may not post anymore for fear of troll attacks, please do not worry. We are on to them and they do not bother us anymore.
It is not a big deal at all ....it rather boring actually given the fact that we have so many other things to work on around here. Just a few mosquitos flying around.

Leslie in MN

Fitch,
I am so sorry little one. Be with Barbaro now baby. He'll take care of you. Your healing is complete and your new life, free of abuse, has begun. You'll only know freedom and love now. You'll be happy now honey, I promise.

Cold here today. Know you are comfortable Barbaro. We love you so. Thanks Alex

Good morning Barbaro...our shining star...

We know you had ACN...and today you have a little partner...Little Fitch...Barbaro...we tried and Jen and Tracy did too...Please look after him...he deserves alot of TLC.

So, Sweet Boy...run, play, and have fun...we always love and miss you...ALWAYS.

Good Morning Fans/Family of Barbaro...

Sadness in my heart...

Please call, fax, and email and let us turn every stone to get Barbaro's Bill passed. We have to take ACTION...being PASSIVE...we will never win...and that includes me.

Please do not let someone who has to come as an imposter deter you away...the dark side is trying to take over...and WE SHALL NOT LET THAT HAPPEN...Good will win over Bad.

Remember all the spoken and unspoken requests, the ones suffering, the rescues...Pray for answers and we find homes for all animals that deserve nothing but love...

LOVE IS GIVING, AND GIVING IS LOVE...and ALL of you should be so proud of each other...we are the gift of love...we live as family under one roof, in the House that Barbaro Built.

I pray we find a cure for laminitis, and educate people about RESPONSIBILITY...when you have an animal...it is responsibility and dedication.

Keep your highs head...FOBS.

We Believe in Miracles
We Believe in Barbaro
And WE will overcome.

Alex and Tim...thank you for your dedication...

Have a bless day..

###
Rosie, have our baby, healthy, we need a sweet miracle.

Ok, I know I need money to pay mortgage and groceries.... but, I wonder, is there an organization that raises money to offer rewards for those who turn in scumbags like Fitch's murderers? It seems like a worthy cause and would raise awareness of animal cruelty. Any ideas? Also, what is the count on the matching funds? I haven't heard anything for awhile. I'm not always the most observant when reading through posts.

####
Meant to say: Keep your heads, High...sorry.

Good Morning, FOB's!

Sorry this is so long.

###
Prayers to Jen and Tracy for the heartbreaking passing of Fitch. You gave him a lot of love and did everything you could. In the end he was surrounded by so much love and caring that helped him overcome the horror and suffering.The people who did this horrific deed will reap the karma of their actions. Actually, if you ever find them, have them watch some of the SH video on HSUS. That could wake them up.

###
Re the trolls - they are an annoyance. They are nothing. Re their "observations" of energy healing - they do not have a CLUE as to what energy healing entails - and they fear it. What people fear, they try to destroy. So we'll continue cooking the soup and brushing away the mosquitoes. If anything, they have helped the FOB's strengthen their resolve to make Barbaro and Mrs. Jackson proud of us. In a bizarre way, I have to thank them and thank those who flamed me 4 weeks ago. You tested me and honey, I AM declaring to each and every one of you trying to destroy this site and some of the gentle people here: I am in my own Light with a Strength that you cannot even envision. Your games mean nothing to me anymore. Nothing at all.

###
Laurie H, any hope of a tuck-in for B, Hope and now Fitch?

Eight days till Dr. R's lecture. I am so excited.

###
Jan Boterf, let me know about Austin...if you could get a pic of him when you show him my pictures from NBC, I would treasure it always.

###
Will be going to see the new foal (a young lady...) tonight where Avi is boarded. Of course, I will have carrots for Avi since His Highness would be horribly offended if I didn't take any...:). Will be going up to the ranch as soon as I send this.

###
There is a strong possibility I will be on a cable TV show in NYC in May (the 11th to be exact) with the boys' owner. I will take that time to mention a couple of my interests - the FOB's/TWR/Barbaro are one of the 3 topics that I plan to discuss. (other 2 are energy healing and a friend of mine who is an environmental watchdog and advisor to the President of Aveda Cosmetics.). I will keep everybody updated.

Rosie, please have that baby...:)

Healing, Love, Peace,
ONS,
Lyn Gilbert

Alex

Please remove timestamp:

Posted by: jac at March 6, 2007 1:22 PM

###
Harriette, I told myself I wasn't going to cry today. So much for that.
I am going to save your post. I have an email going out to Voinovich this morning, I may just include it. After hearing about Fitch last night I reworked the email so I could include little Fitch's story.
###
Sarah from NC, I echoed what you said about horse theft in the email I was putting together at 3:00 this morning...where is the justice...there was a time...but no more...
###
Trolls... what can I say. This one, like the others, wasn't to bright. A big case of Multiple Personality Disorder. Actually, if it weren't for the fact they were being so insensitive to MaryS, I would have found the whole thing humorous... obviously they are unwanted in the real world...sad!
Love to all,
Verna

Good Morning Earth Angels With Love. Fitch is An Angel In Heaven. He Is At Rainbow Bridge With Barbaro And The Angels.

A Very Beautiful Source Of Comfort Is Barbaro Beenie Baby. To Have, To Hold, And To Love. To See Everyday.

You Are Earth Angels Who Love. The Rainbow.

Family.

I am so sorry to hear of the brutal acts done to Abercrombie and Fitch. I am especially sorry for the loss of Fitch. My prayers and best wishes to Jen and Tracy and ask that they be comforted in their loss. I also ask for comfort for all FOB that came forth with candles and prayers, concern and grief for little Fitch. I will never forget him and hope he is running free and being protected by Barbaro in his new forever home. It is such a helpless feeling when you can't do anything to undo the damage.I can only imagine what Jen and Tracy must be going through. I am just haunted by the thought that people will stoop so low as to harm a helpless animal and at a horse rescue! I pray that I can channel the anger and ill feelings for the perpetrators into something positive.
BTW today is my birthday and so it is with Fitch. I am so sad about him. I will be sending a donation in his honor to the rescue and be revisiting the candle site. It looks like horse rescues will have to now budget for night watchmen and security to prevent these senseless acts. This will certainly impact the rescue's already stretched budgets.Love and comfort to all.
JoAnne
FOB forever

####
Happy B'day Joanne.

And Karen In Tennesee...she wishes all the FOBs...the very best...and she loves you Barbaro.

The tragedy of the last 48 or so hours is now gone with Fitch. Who could do such a thing, I ask myself, and why? For what purpose? What that poor little boy had to endure, I can only imagine. It's painful to think of. His poor little heart. Confusion and pain were his at that awful time during the nite when strangers crept in.
The only relief is knowing he is not suffering, not confused, not scared any longer. But my heart doesn't feel relieved; just really sad and scared that I live in a world full of people that choose to harm, and hate, and abuse, and kill innocent animals. What a tragedy. What a shame.
I am so disgusted by all this.

My condolences to all who loved or even knew Fitch. Poor fella.

Don't you wish we had bags of fairy dust we could sprinkle over all the innocent animals in this world to protect them from harm?

###
RIP Fitch

It's too much to bear, Bless you Jen and Tracy and all others who tried their best to save him.

Judy

### Cal

OK I am really glad to see your posts today. I was in "shock" when I came home from a very busy day and saw that post. I almost fell off my computer chair. I usually come in to post in the morning and then at night now. I told Alex in a public post that I was not going to use this as a chat room one day and I meant that! I don't even remember the last time I posted before last night. I "may" have said good morning to people yesterday but I doubt it cause I spent all day getting a new car.

By the way. My new car is the Barbaro Derby Mobile :-)...... Can anyone lead me to some Barbaro bumper stickers?

##### Alex thanks for all you are doing and please stay safe on the track.

I am really bummed out about Fitch although I have no clue what happened and NO I don't want to know :-(..... All I need to know is that Fitch is now with Barbaro and that makes me smile.

#### FOB's Have a wonderful Tuesday and stay safe. Take each moment as it was your last because life is so very very special. One minute we are here and the next we aren't. I have learned in this last few months that to enjoy the moment. In reality that is truly all we have. We don't have a moment from now and we don't have a moment ago. What we are doing right now is all we can truly say is real. So many people (myself incuded) spend so much time worrying about things that will never happen. In doing so, we miss out on "life".

Does anyone know the line up for the Derby? I think that Invasor is going to hit but I would like to know what some of you think on the other horses.....:-)

Angel Barbaro is OUR Barbaro.........

Blessings to all Nina J

Yes, Vonda. I wish there were protective fairy dust for the beloved animals; some of which I hope would stick on the perpetrators of cruetly so they could be found out.

I hope those who fatally hurt Fitch are caught very very soon and that there is prison time for them.

Jen, soooo sorry for what you and Fitch went through. You were a great guardian for him. Clearly he didn't want to leave you.

Look at what sensibilities BARBARO has brought out in us in a collective fashion.

The article on Dr. Richardson yesterday was so moving.

May it be a better day for all . . .

ACN above always for BARBARO and the friends he is welcoming. He has just welcomed one of my feline friends, Clotildhe.

Barbaro, you have my heart, Angel Boss Hoss...now, let Alydar take care of Fitch, he knows.

###########
I don't sign on much at night, but in the morning I kind of get the idea what is going on , and must say, even though it reminds me of "Whack a Mole" on the Boardwalk, the Family has a very classy version of "whack a Troll".
Love to all,
Susan
Pen, Roy

My heartbreak over the loss of Fitch is equaled by my distress over the postings last night by "trolls" who, in my view, are partially responsible for his death.

It's hard enough to save a little innocent baby with just prayers and donations, but to have to overcome those who mock people's good intentions is more than I can take.

May justice come to those evil-doers who harmed Fitch in body and all of us in soul and spirit.

I'm not strong enough to take this today.

Good Morning Sweet Barbaro in Heaven!

Sweet little Fitch, I am heartbroken... It consoles me to know he is now with Barbaro.

Hope we get to smile today, hoping Rosie does her thing.

Ro & Brady

Mary,

Did I say something wrong? I didn't mean that I want to collect money for myself. I meant that I am contributing to so many rescue organizations and causes that I'm eating into my eating money. If I said anything amiss, I am sorry.

I would be interested in contributing to a fund that helps to catch criminals who steal and/or abuse animals.

jac - Jacalyn

Good Morning FOB’s

We got a wonderful message yesterday from Congressman Whitfield. He is working very hard to make this legislation happen. We must help him and all the others that are working so hard for the future of our horses.
The call list is in from Habitat for Horses. Please call the following on TUESDAY MARCH 6

SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE, SCIENCE AND TRANSPORTATION (S 311)

-Senator Bill Nelson
Phone #: 202-224-5274
Fax #: 202-228-2183

-Senator Mark Pryor
Phone #: 202-224-2353
Fax #: 202-228-0908

-Senator John D. Rockefeller, IV
Phone #: 202-224-6472
Fax #: 202-224-7665

-Senator Gordon Smith
Phone #: 202-224-3753
Fax #: 202-228-3997

-Senator John Sununu
Phone #: 202-224-2841
Fax #: 202-228-4131

And please don’t forget to call your OWN representative and senators and urge them to co-sponsor.

Thanks and have a great day!!!

Shelley and Debra

###Nancy in IL

I am not going anywhere either. All Alex has to do is go to those IP addresses to find out where they are coming from. He is sooooooooo busy with work and horses that he really really doesn't need this. With that being said, please just remember that he does have the power to find out the location of the person or persons that are posting the post under what-ever name they are doing it. He also has the power to block them. One sad thing is a person can go to another computer somewhere else in what-ever city and get on this board. The thing of it is, Alex can pin down the city so if it is a person that is already on the black list then if the posts are coming from the same general locaton, that pretty much tells me that a person that was blocked just went to a Internet cafe computer or something like that. Maybe even a library. It is sad that he has to do this because I know that he has so much going on in his life and to even get on this board and do what he is doing takes time away from him where he could be relaxing (which he really needs to do with the work that he does).

Everyone please just let Alex handle this, he is a smart man and he knows what to do.....:-)

Angel Barbaro

Blessings Nina J

Karen in PA...

First I want to offer my sympathy on the loss of your kitty Clothilde. I am sure she is with Barbaro and Fitch and all the others that have gone first, before us. It's so hard to lose those we love. Blessings to you.

Secondly, prison, in my opinion, is simply not punishment enough for those who violated Fitch. I believe the Bible says something like "an eye for an eye" ?

good morning

Fresh tears are flowing, poor sweet Fitch,you are now safe in the greener pasture of heaven with all the others.

RIP SWEET Fitch

ann

Jane,
try to scroll past them. (I think Alex takes them off by the time I get on in the morning. And I admire his Admin work, some skate on the thin line of being removed, but Alex does it with fairness).
Try to remember, there will always be someone out there who will try to make trouble or cause harm, even though they have no interest in the subject matter.
Love to all,
Susan
Believe in our Hero Angel ,Barbaro.

Good Morning Dear Friends,

How terribly sad to hear about poor little Fitch. There is comfort in knowing he is free from pain, free from fear & he is now with our Barbaro. There is comfort in knowing he left this Earth surrounded in love & was received into Heaven in the same way.

I had a very dear friend, who passed from breast cancer at 36. She loved butterflies. She thought they were the essence of life itself. And the time we spend here is when we are the fuzzy catepillar. It is through the passing of our physical body we are presented to God in our cocoon. Once in Heaven, the Spirit becomes free & we become the butterfly we were intended to be. Our souls, like the butterfly, are free, beautiful, with gentle, delicate wings.

Sweet Barbaro - we know, with God's guidance, Fitch is where he is meant to be. Love him, guide him, give him shelter, let him grow in protection of your shadow. Let him learn to live free & enjoy being the baby he still is.

FOB - how wonderful to see the outpouring of love & concern for all the animals, especially the horses. It is so heartwarming to see how many care so deeply. I am proud to be a part of this group.

God Bless all.

Kathy K

To The Trolls: God Knows. God Sees. You Reap What You Sow. Plant Better Seeds. No Excuses To
Hurt Beautiful People.

This Site: The Lord Of The Rings Is The Lord Of The Angels.

Inspire and Love. Do Not Give Up. Always A Horse Person.

for the dear fans of barbaro
..a magnificent outporuing of love and support
thank you , too,
alex
for giving us this chance to do work for barbaro. and the VOICELSS
may little fitch rest in peace --safe at last.
i have been up all night and eyes swollen from crying.l it is beyind me but i am so resolved to support tracy and jennifer and all folks struggling to save the cast off horses and their foals and fillies....
may the problems at the retirement home work out..
bless you fitch
i am so sorry my species --..the most dangerous in the world--humans--,
. let you down.
. i am absoltuely besides myself in sorrow for what fitch had to go through
i rage. 'in the dark
by later
i will be back in the ,to the
light. .
the negtive defines the positive..i hear hispered to my ear...
martita

God Bless you little Fitch. Barbaro will take good care of you. Jen & Tracy....God Bless YOU for all you did for Fitch. Had you not shown him that not all humans are bad, had you not shown him humans could love him.....he would not have fought for his life. He would have let go and crossed the Rainbow Bridge much sooner. I can only hope those responsible for this are caught an punished. If not caught, I know in my heart they will ultimately be punished by a power much higher than our court system. I will try my hardest not to lose faith in human-kind. People like Jen and Tracy help me do that. We must all keep our chins up, do whatever we can to help the horses, donate, and call/fax your state representatives. We love and miss you Barbaro. We love and miss you (already) little Fitch. Run fast and free. Nancy in MO.

Last night I sent Reiki to Fitch for a long time; I don't know how long. I asked St. Francis, St. Jude, St. Elegius, Jesus, Mother Mary, Guardian Angels, Healing Angels, the Horse Spirit, and Barbaro for help.
I had the sense of Barbaro's head at my right shoulder, and the sensation of hearing a gentle, low nicker.
This morning, on the way to work, I kept breaking down in tears. I saw a cloud formation that looked like turkeys in flight: "Sacrifice", I thought, and I had a feeling.
Today when I read that Fitch had passed away, I was so saddened. My deepest, deepest sypathies go to the wonderful women who were caring for him.
When I was sending Reiki, I kept saying, "God's will, not mine be done; Please, God whatever is best for Fitch, let it be done without interference from my will."
I don't know when he passed away, but I know that the poor dear boy is with Barbaro now, and was more than likely greeted by him.
Harriette, thank you for sharing your beautiful words. I am crying again.
Please, please, Almighty God, intercede with Divine Justice for Fitch: bring his murderers to light, and let their punishment be just.
Sue M. Pittsburgh

Hey Everyone.

Forget about the trolls. Spending so much time on them is exactly what they want. Let's just move on and do our work and make Barbaro and all of the defenseless horses proud of us!!

The very small number of people on the board that are NOT good should not overpower the many good people here. You know the saying "the best revenge is success". When we are successful, we can all be proud and those horrible people will go back under their rocks!!!

Have a good day and keep the faith.....we WILL prevail!!!! OK, now I'm REALLY late for work!!!!

Shelley

Hey everyone! Change of subject...

I have posted links to the photos I have taken on my travels of FOB's. For those of you that are new you may enjoy seeing them. Here is the link to the photos

Good Morning FOB’s

We got a wonderful message yesterday from Congressman Whitfield. He is working very hard to make this legislation happen. We must help him and all the others that are working so hard for the future of our horses.
The call list is in from Habitat for Horses. Please call the following on TUESDAY MARCH 6

SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE, SCIENCE AND TRANSPORTATION (S 311)

-Senator Bill Nelson
Phone #: 202-224-5274
Fax #: 202-228-2183

-Senator Mark Pryor
Phone #: 202-224-2353
Fax #: 202-228-0908

-Senator John D. Rockefeller, IV
Phone #: 202-224-6472
Fax #: 202-224-7665

-Senator Gordon Smith
Phone #: 202-224-3753
Fax #: 202-228-3997

-Senator John Sununu
Phone #: 202-224-2841
Fax #: 202-228-4131

And please don’t forget to call your OWN representative and senators and urge them to co-sponsor.

Thanks and have a great day!!!

Shelley and Debra

Posted by: ShelleyA at March 6, 2007 1:58 PM

###

Jac, I apologize.. I copied the wrong timestamp.. I sent the correct one to Alex's email address...

Mary S and Cal. Don't let it bother you too much about what happened last night. those that have been here long enough know your writing styles and can see that those were not you.. You both contribute greatly in your own ways, please don't let those stop you. Plus the Troll Mafia has your back! :)

#####

Wendy.....love your photos. Bet you can figure out my favorites!!!!

God take you in his arms and gently love and hold you, sweet Fitch. You were much loved and I hate what you had to go through in your short life. Those people are EVIL. Barbaro, please take care of this young, innocent, sweet boy and tell him how much love their is for him....

Sad....

Love you Barbaro and all FOB's....

So sad....
Lisa

Thank you Shelley for today's list. Will start faxing and calling shortly.

For Barbaro, for Fitch, for Rosie and all the others.

Ro & Brady

and i just recieved your reiki
..thank you so for cairng ofr fitch
..thank you shelley for the list-- and i am taking care of it now --for the congress and the committee to focus on this week--..that is how i can helop fitch now
..i am so hopping mad that i will not allow another minute to go undone..i am deeply touched by the humanity outporuing for fitch and barbaro looks down at us..
i love it
..still in the dark but soon the clouds will break thank you ..to serve..
love love send reiki to the congress../.to their hearts.and minds...
martita

So sorry to hear about Fitch......cruelty knows no bounds but neither does love....we as Barbaro fans will continue the love and help where we can....rest in peace Fitch.......so sorry....

####

Yes...we are heartbroken...but this has put fire under our feet!!!!!

I think of Apache and Little Fitch...abused...and died without enjoying life...AMERICA...LISTEN TO US...THIS IS A WAKE UP CALL...THIS ABUSE AND SLAUGHTER HAS TO STOP...

Barbaro...we are here, your family...and we will listen, we will hear, and we thank you for your Spirit.

JUST IN FROM HSUS -

ACTION ON WILD HORSE PROTECTION BILL WEDNESDAY! URGENT

Representative Heller TO VOTE YES

On Wednesday, March 7, a federal bill (H.R. 249) to restore protections for wild horses from commercial sale and slaughter will be brought up for a vote in the House Natural Resources
Committee.

Your U.S. Representative, Dean Heller, serves on this committee and needs to hear from supporters of the bill.

Please take action and help this important bill clear its first hurdle:

2007 WILD HORSE ACT

Posted by: Debra, WI at March 6, 2007 1:33 AM

I am so sorry about Fitch. God bless him.

JUST IN FROM HSUS -

ACTION ON WILD HORSE PROTECTION BILL WEDNESDAY! URGENT

Representative Heller TO VOTE YES

On Wednesday, March 7, a federal bill (H.R. 249) to restore protections for wild horses from commercial sale and slaughter will be brought up for a vote in the House Natural Resources
Committee.

Your U.S. Representative, Dean Heller, serves on this committee and needs to hear from supporters of the bill.

Please take action and help this important bill clear its first hurdle:

"a href="https://community.hsus.org/campaign/2007_wild_horse_act">WILD HORSE ACT

Posted by: Debra, WI at March 6, 2007 1:33 AM

JUST IN FROM HSUS -

ACTION ON WILD HORSE PROTECTION BILL WEDNESDAY! URGENT

Representative Heller TO VOTE YES

On Wednesday, March 7, a federal bill (H.R. 249) to restore protections for wild horses from commercial sale and slaughter will be brought up for a vote in the House Natural Resources
Committee.

Your U.S. Representative, Dean Heller, serves on this committee and needs to hear from supporters of the bill.

Please take action and help this important bill clear its first hurdle:

WILD HORSE ACT HR 249

Posted by: Debra, WI at March 6, 2007 1:33 AM

: Questions Arise at Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation as Board Members Leave.
This is not good news for our Horse Slaughter bill!

Sorry to hear about Candy Stripes, colic is a painful way to die.

Really sad news about Fitch.

Lets go to work, and get HR503/S311 passed.

###
Vonda would like to see your letter.

I am so sorry to hear about little Fitch. Those responsible will indeed have hell to pay.

To those who cared for him, bless you all. He was surrounded by so much love at the end. Run with Barbaro, little boy.

Hi FOBs and Alex,

So sorry to read about little Fitch. I just cannot begin to understand the "evil that lurks in the hearts of some".

Want you all to know I am calling the suggested congressmen, praying, and lurking. The posts still provide a great deal of comfort to me.

I do pledge to teach my grandchildren to love animals and to treat them with respect and TLC. They deserve that and so much more.

Remembering Bobby.

Sally in Louisiana

Dear Martita..I do believe YOU and ALL of US are part of the light....

TO ALL...focus your LOVE !!! LOVE is the most powerful emotion....we have enough LOVE here to accomplish TRULY GREAT THINGS !!!
Your LOVE for BARBARO empowers you....USE IT!!!

The time for phoning and faxing those senators and congressmen is NOW !!!
THERE IS NO LATER for FITCH and the rest waiting in feedlots everywhere....

ALEX -

When I asked that you please post the links on top, I was not asking for myself, I was asking on behalf of The Jacksons as it was their request that we continue the fight on behalf of BARBARO. They were gracious enough to allow you visits with BARBARO and this is one way all of us, including youself could show our respect to them and BARBARO.

If the magic word BARBARO did not insist on this website, this website would not be what it is.

PLEASE help out with the slaughter Bill and have your assistant post the links on the top for others to see and make it easter for them.

Hi FOBs and Alex,

So sorry to read about little Fitch. I just cannot begin to understand the "evil that lurks in the hearts of some".

Want you all to know I am calling the suggested congressmen, praying, and lurking. The posts still provide a great deal of comfort to me.

I do pledge to teach my grandchildren to love animals and to treat them with respect and TLC. They deserve that and so much more.

Remembering Bobby.

Sally in Louisiana

PLEASE CONTACT YOUR REPRESENTATIVE AND TWO SENATORS

110th Congress Leadership - CONTACT INFORMATION

Making your calls could help out more than donations. Please getting these Bills passed will save 100,000 every year.

You are released from your pain, Hitch. Go with God.

When I read he had passed, the first thing I thought about was being part of a reward offered for the capture of his murderer.

Jac, you read my mind! I have contributed to buy horses and to feed horses, and to vet horses, and now I want to contribute toward finding the scumbag/s that did this to an innocent baby.

Is anybody willing to take on a project like this?

THANK YOU Sally Lawrence....HUGS

I'm sorry to hear about Fitch passing. I have not read the Comments in a long time for various reasons.

I am sorry to hear about Fitch passing. I have not read the Comments in a long time for various reasons.

Hi Everyone:

I'm at a loss for words in my sadness for Fitch. That kind of abuse is beyond my comprehension. I only hope there are strong animal protection laws where he was killed and that those who performed this horrible act will be facing felony charges.

### Please take a moment today to say a prayer for Erin Brennan. She has been sick the past week due to food poisoning and goes in for another MRI tomorrow. Let's hope the results are nothing but positive! (For those new to the board, Erin is the 6 year old daughter of one of the great gals from Kennett Florist. She was diagnosed with a brain tumor last fall.)

Yesterday I received one of my trade magazines "Veterinary Practice News" and the front page featured a photo of Dr. Richardson walking Barbaro outside New Bolton with the headline "The Race They Couldn't Win". Just broke my heart, since they both looked so hopeful in that photo. The story isn't available yet on the VPN website, but as soon as it is "archived" I'll post it here. A well-written companion article dealt with treatment of race horses, so it was good to see this topic covered in a trade publication. Now let's see them tackle horse slaughter.

Take care, everyone!

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES - Co-Sponsors

SENATORS - Co-Sponsors

COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND COMMERCE - HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE - HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE, SCIENCE AND TRANSPORTATION - SENATE / COMMITTEE HOMEPAGE


COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE SCIENCE AND TRANSPORTATION - SENATE MEMBERS

PLEASE...listen to Socorro !!! FOCUS and phone youe senators and congressmen....
If you want to honor Barbaro,Fitch and all the rest...PLEASE pick up your phone and make that call..it's EASY and Socorro has made it even easier by giving you phone numbers...

DON'T WAIT...there will not be any tomorrow for the horses in those killing pens at Kaufman Texas... Dekalb Illinois and Beltex in Ft Worth......

To everyone please call Bob Casey office in Washington. Toll free 866-802-2833, I just talked to Tim, his aid and he told me that Casey did not make a public comment to the bill.

So please call!

Address for Jen, anyone? I am sick about this...
I crashed early last night, missed all the updates. what a thing to wake up to...blessings on all who cared for Fitch and tried....

Also his aid will ask for a zip code, so you can use
15022
15062
15314
15063
15012
This are all zips for his local area near me.
Re: Bob Casey

Fitch, you are healthy & whole now and will know only love & compassion for all of eternity. Run with Barbaro... he is your trusted guide in Equine Heaven. I love you, little boy, and I cry for what you knew here on earth.

Barbaro, please take Fitch under your angel wing & show him your favorite buttercup fields. He is home now and I know you and all the other horse angels will show him love forever. You live in my heart, sweet colt.

MARIBEL -

Thank you for putting it in better words, my words are not coming out correctly this morning.

CAROL NICHOLS -

Called Senator Bob Casey. Thank you for posting his number, made it easier.

FRIAR TUCK -

Thank you for always posting Shelley's and Debra's suggestions. Makes it easier when there are several, their suggestions get lost in the Comments many times if you are not re-posting them.

********
Socorro....HUGS !!! YOU ARE DOING A GREAT JOB !!!!

I just channeled my anger and distress into a letter to the local paper, citing Fitch and Barbaro and how we need to shut these slaughterhouses down. I hope they will print it. They did the last time.

And as soon as I stop crying, I'll make my calls.

Morning (psychic) skritches to the BBH and all of his 'frens' in Equine Heaven. Waiting to hear AFN -- and that Felix has already given Fitch the grand tour (during which Fitch made Felix wait while he gamboled around the heavenly meadow for a quick sec...)

####
Socorro:
Thank you once again for the links. Everybody,
this makes it so easy to find your reps...

####
FsOB

Shelley A posted this last night:

Here is an e-mail I received from Chris Heyde of SAPLONLINE. Let's go folks.....looks like they REALLY need more calls!!!!

Hi Shelley-

Thanks for the video and email. What we really need are increased calls to the Hill. They aren't hearing from the public as much and cosponsors have slowed down. Constant calls from Congress are critical. Keep that up and push more and more to do so as well.

We can also use more vets on our vet support letter. Have everyone you know reach out to every vet in every state urging them to sign and fax the attached form back to me.

Thanks for everything!
Chris

I'm also happy to say that my vet signed on tonight!!!! I have to figure out how to post the attachment to the letter for vets that Chris sent.

Which she then did. Voila:

This is the link to the Veterinarians Support Letter. Please try to have it signed and faxed back by as many vets as possible.

http://www.horse-protection.org/pdf/vetsupport.pdf

Posted by: ShelleyA at March 6, 2007 1:35 AM

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

RIP Little Fitch...such a tragedy. I just don't understand how anyone could harm an animal. Prayers to Jen and Tracy.

Nina...if you go to zazzle.com they have tons of Barbaro stuff or you can design your own bumper sticker.

Barbaro, Fitch and many others are in heaven now.

Patti
IL

Barbaro, I still miss you.

Alex, love your updates, read them all, click on your links, then if I have time, I read the comments. Thanks to you and Tim for this site.

Good Morning Barbaro Nation:

Let us not forget Laminitis Research. There are not accurate numbers to quote but Laminitis KILLS more horses each year than the number of horses that are sent to Slaughter. It causes many many more to become permanently lame. Surely there is room to do both.

Regarding Trolls: A suggestion- don't worry about them. We can tell who is whom. I would even go so far as to suggest we not have Alex remove them unless he thinks it hurts the board in some way. I'm wondering if they are getting reinforced by being removed. Those of us on the board late at night are just fine. We are creative and able to deal with the trolls. Don't worry about us. It almost feels like sport.

Hola Barbaro Nation.

In Fitch' honor I am calling and emailing. If there was no financial incentive to try and steal him, this probably would not have happened.

Please if you are nervous about calling, rest assured that it is a fairly simple straight forward process. Let your voice be heard FOBS. If calling is not possible try to email or fax.

The last month and a half has been difficult. Somehow the losses and diasppointments no longer immobilize me. I pray that everyone bands together. Take care of yourself, take a break if you need it.

God bless all those who pray, donate, weep and call for the animals. God bless Barbaro.

# Carol Nichols, thank you for the info re: Senator Casey. I spoke to a woman, who said that she would inform the Senator of my request that he support the bill. Did not get any info re: where he stands.
Called Senator Arlen Spector's office, and the woman I spoke with said that she "thinks he's for it"--i. e., supports the anti horse slaughter bill. I asked her to thank him profusely.
My Representative, Jason Altmire, is a co sponsor of the Wild Horse Act; I called his office and related my deep gratitude to him for his support, and pledged my loyalty to him for co sponsoring the bill.
Re: Senator Casey--he and his late father were always strong on ethics and moral values (real moral values; not the sound bite crap); so I believe there would be hope--please use Carol Nichols' information and call Senator Bob Casey.
Sue M., Pittsburgh

Good Morning Barbaro Nation:

Let us not forget Laminitis Research. There are not accurate numbers to quote but Laminitis KILLS more horses each year than the number of horses that are sent to Slaughter. It causes many many more to become permanently lame. Surely there is room to do both.

Regarding Trolls: A suggestion- don't worry about them. We can tell who is whom. I would even go so far as to suggest we not have Alex remove them unless he thinks it hurts the board in some way. I'm wondering if they are getting reinforced by being removed. Those of us on the board late at night are just fine. We are creative and able to deal with the trolls. Don't worry about us. It almost feels like sport.

I am so sorry about Fitch...it is so heartbreaking. I really was hopeful, as I'm sure we all were, that the little guy would pull through. He is with our big Boy now, safe and warm and never to be harmed again. Will always be in my thoughts and prayers.

If there is anything we can do to find the degenerates who did this, count me in.

Sorry for the double post - hit the button twice - more coffee

To everyone from Western Pa, John Murtha toll free number. 800-289-2642.

Please call, he has yet to sign on.

#
Lynz--"food for thought"--the troll soup is great for these wintry days. Someday, warmer weather will surely come--have you considered "BBQ Troll on a Spit" with Pear Chutney, or breaded, deep fried Troll Digits (fingers and toes), with mint sauce?
The brains, of course, are Toxic Waste, and have to be put in 50 gallon drums and filled with cement; then buried at a site that handles such poison?
Sue M., Pittsburgh

Socorro - can you email me with the links to all of these blue links? I am copying them to my Vivi blog so that they can call also and the links don't copy over - my email is greyhounds4me2003@yahoo.com thanks

Good Morning Handsome Sweetheart:)

Did you meet little Fitch at the bridge last night? I know you were there and so were lots of your 'frens'....I'm sure! Fitch had a difficult time while he was here I am so sorry to say. Nice people tried to help him, but the bad people hurt him and he couldn't fight anymore. Someday, the bad people will have to answer for thier crime against Fitch and possibly others they hurt!

I hope you are busy today having lots of fun:) I will be anxious to read all about you later at Equine Heaven:) and I'll check in again tonight...'cause you know why, Bobby....you know I love you sooooooooo much:)

Lynne-Your Forever Friend in CA

Nina - I designed 21 Barbaro bumper stickers at zazzle.com. Put in "Barbaro" as the search once you get to the home page.

When you see the products, look for "GlendaJo" under one of them and click on it.

Then click "view all products".

Then on the right side of the screen you can choose "bumper stickers" to see the ones I designed. (There are others designed by other people, but royalties I earn with my sales go to horse rescue through me.)

Glenda Jo

Good morning, my Beloved Angel Boys.

Good morning, Barbaro Nation. Today we are fortunate to have another opportunity to make our calls/faxes/emails to stamp out horse slaughter THIS TERM.

Today we are fortunate to have another opportunity to raise money for rescues.

Today we are fortunate to have another opportunity to share great ideas and put things in motion. Things like a reward fund for the killer(s) of Fitch, if the rescue so wishes; things like trying to help rescues with security cameras, if they so wish.

For Barbaro, Apache and Fitch

Good morning, FOBs. It is so sad to hear about Fitch. I had that awful feeling in the pit of my stomach as I began to read the posts this morning. Prayers to those who fought so hard to save him.

God bless you, Fitch. We prayed hard for you last night. You are with Barbaro and the others now, and they will take good care of you.
Must run to a meeting, but I have a quick comment/question. I simply cannot make calls or fax Congress/Senate from my office. Can we call after hours? Is there voicemail that will track after hours calls? Sorry to be ignorant on this, but I usually e-mail and send letters and it sounds like we need the calls now. Thanks!
Have a great day everyone.

Good morning, sweet Barbaro. Good morning fellow FOB's. It's an extremely cold and windy day here in upstate New York. Hope everyone is staying warm where they are. Received my Blood Horse issue..it is beautiful.

#
Sue M , John Murth is my Rep., and I also posted his toll free number for people in western pa.
I don't know, maybe it will work for others also.
Just use my zip codes 15062.

Hello everyone,

I just heard about Fitch. Words can't describe the sadness and anger I am feeling right now.

The only way I can deal with this is by making call after call after call after call. And, when I'm done with that, I do e-mails, then faxes. All the while asking everyone I know to do the same.

Please everyone, honor Fitch with this act. Get everyone you know to do the same. All you need to do is tell one person and ask that person to tell one person, etc, etc.

The ONLY way this will work is for more calls to be made, more awareness out there.

And yeah, after that, do what Jane in CT did, and what Dawn in Omaha did....write your local newspaper.

And Alex, having this links posted in updates, regularly, will help us as many people don't page down to comments, but just read your updates.

Make it a productive day everyone, and I'm not talking about your jobs whatever it is you all do. I'm talking productive for the horses and the awareness we need to have.

I posted this last night after learning of Fitch's passing. Marky asked me to repost this morning. Someone also asked me to start a thread, but I don't know how to do that so if you all think we should run with this idea, please anyone who knows how, start the thread. I feel no ownership for this idea, but I might suggest we call the thread "Fitch Cams" as a memorial to the poor little innocent.

Thanks to Marky and all for courage under fire. My prayers for Jan and Tracy - you fought as hard as you could. At least Fitch had love all around him at the end.

Deirdre

Re-post follows:

###

Dear Friends,

I've been following Fitch's thread all day, hoping against hope for good news that just couldn't come.

Now, when I would have expected to be crying I've had an idea instead. I want to share it before it goes away. It's been right under my nose - under all of our noses - for weeks!

We have all been watching foaling cams all across the country! The technology is there for secure cams to provide surveillance for horse rescues and others. If security cameras had been present, surveiling the grounds and driveway, the horrible cretins that did this to poor Fitch might never have struck; or at the very least there might be photographic evidence to help apprehend them!

Some of you are so good at organizing these things (I'm new at this, I apologize for bringing nothing but an idea to the table). Maybe we can start a "security fund" - maybe even get vendors to donate equipment in the face of this tragedy so that these rescue facilities can have an extra layer of security and people like Jen and Tracy who already work so hard can sleep a little easier and feel that the odds of something like this happening again have been reduced.

What do you all think? Can we do this?

Deirdre in California

Posted by: Edgewise at March 6, 2007 6:39 AM

lynz-
you are right RE: the trolls - sometimes it does feel like sport. Of course, when the REALLY stupid ones show up, the sport is rather like shooting fish in a barrel...

is it the nature of a troll to be stupid? sure seems that way lately - not an original thought in their little green okra heads.

G.

#
Carol Nichols, thank you--great idea to use your zip code.
Wish we could figure out how to communicate "off the board"--don't want to put phone numbers on a public forum, especially with the "visitors" we sometimes get...that Lynz cooks in her soup pot.
Sue M., Pittsburgh

lynz-
you are right RE: the trolls - sometimes it does feel like sport. Of course, when the REALLY stupid ones show up, the sport is rather like shooting fish in a barrel...

is it the nature of a troll to be stupid? sure seems that way lately - not an original thought in their little green okra heads.

G.

New Update!!! www.equine-heaven.com

OH MY!!!!!!!!! Equine-heaven... more tears.... Glad you are guiding little Fitch Barbaro.

Ro & Brady

Good Morning all !

Remembering handsome Barbaro - got my Bloodhorse Book yesterday ! It is great !

Goodbye sweet little Fitch!

Rest in Peace Candy Stripes- One of my clients had a son of Candy Stripes named Bernard's Candy!

Thanks for the updates Alex!

Take care all !

Sorry for the double post. Computer acting up.

Gives me a chance to say how sorry I am that little Fitch lost his fight for life last night. The only consolation might be that he did know love and gentle hands and soft words in his life, thanks to his rescuers. I am so sorry.

G.

#
Sue M, e-mail at cmn@bentcom.net

I have a new troll strategy - this one may be tough for those in the Northeast today - it is SO cold. How about "dress a troll for spring"

Sample: Troll enters the room...says something troll like...we responsd:

Wearing a lovely straw hat with a aqua beaded headband and peacock feathers in the back.

Bikini top in lilac with red daisies. Does not give the best of coverage but the colors flatter the chest hair.

What do you think?

a href="http://tbfriends.com/index.php">Jo at TB Friends

Did not post Jo yesterday, but Photon Torpedo found his forever home Sunday. Thanks Jo!

Rosie cam up again... still pregnant.

Ro & Brady

Sorry it didn't go blue.

a href="http://tbfriends.com/index.php">Jo at TB Friends

lynz -

I think you may have something there....
Don't respond to what it says, just comment on what it's wearing.

Wearing a lovely olive green chiffon, only slightly marred by drool - lucky that drool is also olive green, hey?

Hello Everyone,

Just a warning in advance. This is a really long post. I have written out what I need to say and it took up 8 pages, so consider yourselves warned! LOL!! I hope you read it because I really need to share today. I hope it doesn't bore to many of you.

I am so heartbroken this morning. I am so heartbroken this morning. My thoughts are with Fitch and all who loved him. He is with all of you too. he wants you to not be sad for he is comfortable now.

When I went to bed last night I didn't know that Fitch had passed. I left the board just before it happened. What I saw on the board last night disturbed me very much. I was awake most of the night thinking about it. I thought of somethings I would ike to share with all of you. I may be made fun of for it, but so be it. I can't keep my mouth shut anymore. I need to open my heart all the way today. If anyone needs to ridicule me that I guess I'm ready for it.

WHAT I KNOW FOR SURE:
Our animal friends want us to be happy and not cry for them. I'll share the story of how I know this. It is not an easy story for me to tell.

I had a German Shepard. His AKC name was Douton's Bull Dozer. We called him Dozer. Please keep his name in the front of you mind, you'll know why soon enough. He was my first dog in a long time, since I was a child actually. From the moment I brought that dog home, he had serious health issues. He had very bad allergies that would manifest in horrible skin lesions. He lived most of his nine years on antibiotics and low dose steroids to keep him comfortable. I almost lost him when he was two years old to renal failure. It was never know what caused it but he pulled through. When he was five he had a bad reaction to routine shots. The skin on his groin and stomach turned into what lokked like rew hamburger with a high fever to go with it. That was many sleepless nights.

It's hard to put into words how close I was to this dog. If a human and an animal can be soul mates that's what we were. He was a serious dog. So smart and sensitve to me. If I was having a bad day or not feeling well, he knew it. My favorite memories of him were when I was sitting in my recliner he used to jump up with his front paws and straddle my lap. He would lay his head against my chest like he was listening to my heartbeat. We would just sit there together.

Well around age eight he started to trip over his own back feet and lose his footing. I thought it may be hip displasia, it wasn't. We were referred to Tufts University. They couldn't tell me 100% but they were 90% sure he had Degenerative Myelopathy. No cure. I did much research and tried to help him to no avail. I kept him comfortable until it was time. The time came on December 8, 2005. It was a Thursday. I don't have to explain to any of you what that day was like.

On Friday morning I went to work as usual, although nothing was usual for me anymore. When I came home, no one to greet me. I was lost. It was the second worst day of my life (the first being the loss of my mother). Just the day before he was there and today he wasn't. I tried to go about my daily routine anyway. You all know, we just have to trudge through whether we want to or not. I just wanted to curl up in a ball for ever.

I got the paper and started to read. The classified ads. Someone had 5 week old German Shepard puppies ready to bring home for Christmas. Oh God, I couldn't even think about a new dog yet! I felt guilty just reading it! I could never replace my Dozer.

As I woke up on Saturday, the loneliness was palpable. The memories of Dozer streaming through my mind endlessly. All he had been through. How much I loved him.

For some reason, I picked up the phone and called the number in the paper. I had very mixed emothions about this. I felt soooo yuilty mostly, but the loneliness was outweighing it I guess. I made an appointment for Sunday afternoon to go and meet the seven puppies.

I walked into the house and was handed a little red collar. The breeder, Nancy, said if I found a puppy I liked I needed the collar so she would know which one was mine. She had seven different colored collars. She led me to the garage where the puppies were kept in a little pen. They were all so cute! I picked up the first puppy. He was cute but no connection. Same with puppy number 2. I started to think I made a mistake. Naybe it was too soon. I was lost. Puppy #3. Puppy #3. I lifted him up over the little fence and put him down on the floor. He started to run and play. I started to play with him. Is he the one? The breeder, Nancy, walked into the garage and says, and I quote "So you like Bull Dozer huh?" I was stunned!! I started to cry. Was this some cruel joke? I had told her that I had just lost a dog but I didn't tell her his name. I told her my dog's name was Bull Dozer. She started to cry too. She said she was covered with goosebumps. Me too!! Needless to say, I put the little red collar on puppy #3. She explained she nicknamed him Bulldozer because when she puts their food out, this puppy would bulldoze his way through all the others to the food.

Just before Christmas, I went back and picked up my puppy. When I got there he was waiting for me at the door with a big red bow around his neck. He was the cutest thing I had ever seen.

Now I have had "Blaze" for 2 years. He is the total opposite of Dozer. He is a healthy 116 pound dog that should have been born with a clown nose already attached to his face. He makes me laugh everyday. Especially when he lays in the hallway, sleeping, on his back with all four paws on the wall!! He is such a goofball!

I thank Dozer everyday for bringing Blaze into my life. I know that it was his love for me that made all of this happen. I do not believe in coincidence. I know in my heart that Dozer wanted me to have a fun, healthy dog to love and he is happy for me.

THIS I KNOW FOR SURE!!!

###
TO THE NAYSAYERS about healing energy - I am a massage therapist and am also Reiki attuned. I am all about energy. This whole world revolves around energy. The human spirit is ENERGY. I have been blessed to witness miracles cause by the human spirit and it's beauthiful ENERGY!! If you could only see the world through my eyes. That is what I wish for you. If I believe that I can be a conduit for my higher power to bring someone peace and healing, who am I hurting? NO ONE!! I am not trying to jam my beliefs down your throat, so leave me alone! You say it's a bunch of hooey, well just look on this board for proof of what power positive thoughts and good intentions have. I do believe you are the minority here and I think you need to keep your fingers quiet and your bad attitude to yourself. The good will win over the evil. IT HAS TO!! I am not a violent person and I try to live my life without judgement, but last night I was this close to getting the "BIG STOCKPOT" out.

##
To Mary S. - From one wacky energy woman to another wacky energy woman, YOU GO GIRL!!! and I'll be rightr behind you always.........

To all - I think some of us are very sensitive to all of the negative things happening to the animals and people out there. I can say that not only has this journey been emotionally drainging but it is affecting me physically too. I think that is what's happening to alot of us. We need the strong FOB's to carry us through. I know I really needed Fitch to pull through. I don't know how much more I can take, but I am going to try my best to hang in there for the rest of the horses. To those uf us who need a break, you take it and don't feel ashamed or guilty. I believe you will come back and when you do you will be stronger than y9ou were before. And if you need another break then you take it because again, you will come back!!!

I'm sorry if I overstayed my welcome. I really needed to vent. Thank you for your time and patience, everyone.

RIP in peace Fitch. I love you!!

Corrine

##
Lynz, I think you have a fantastic wit, and a great imagination! I understand that babydoll dresses and flower and butterfly prints are "very in" this spring---also strappy shoes. Would a troll be able to walk in "kitten heels?"
Sue M, Pittsburgh

HSUS ACTION ALERT - Protect Wild Horses From Slaughter

[note this is a separate Bill, distinct from HR 503 & S 311 that we are working on.]

On Wednesday, March 7, a federal bill (H.R. 249) to restore protections for wild horses from commercial sale and slaughter will be brought up for a vote in the House Natural Resources
Committee. Please go to this link to take action NOW.

https://community.hsus.org/campaign/2007_wild_horse_act/b886bi4fwt6kd

Sorry if this is "old news" but given the urgency IMO it bears repeating.

Good morning to our beloved Barbaro, little Fitch has joined you today. I'm heartbroken, please take good care of the little colt for us.

Love you heart & soul!

From Bloodhorse tribute to Barbaro

Sadly, it was not to be, Barbaro, the 1-2 favorite, broke through the gate before the start and was quickly caught by an outrider. Brother Derek, next to him in post 5, also gave a lunge, banging his nose, which led to a slight bleeding episode. The colt later was scoped, but the bleeding was insignificant, according to Hendricks.

Several experienced horse people watching the incident said they saw Barbaro take a bad step just before being caught, but David G. Zipf, longtime chief veterinarian for the Maryland State Racing Commision, said the two incidents were unrelated.

You guys are all so passionate about getting things changed and getting things done. Why not set out to change the rules that any horse who breaks through the starting gate is automatically scratched??? That takes the decision out of everyone else's hands. I think that would be a good rule.

Personally I think David G. Zipf needs to lose his job because Barbaro should have been looked over better then he was.

Thank you,Corrine, and God bless you-- I believe that you are so right--they want us to be happy.

May you have many, many happy years with your Blaze.

Sue M, Pittsburgh

Equine Heaven~ thank you for letting us know Fitch is now happy & whole. For the all too brief time we knew him, we truly did love him and always will.

Rosie's cam is back up, but still no foal :-)

Head still in feed bucket LOL.

That baby is going to be one well fed babe. :-)

Lisa

##
Corinne, that is such a poignant and lovely tribute to your Dozer. I hope Blaze gives you many many years of laughter and love.

Judy

##
Mary L., please give this topic a rest.

##

Beautiful story Corrine. Thank you for sharing that. Especially today. Bless you.

This was posted by Jen in the forum:

As much as I wanted to crawl under a rock today and wallow in my own sorrow. I couldn't. I wanted to stay away from the computer because each beautiful message for Fitch sent an overwhelming feeling of despair and sadness... but I couldn't..

I couldn't because I thought of Fitch and I realize why he fought.. He did not fight to live for himself.. why would he? This workd has been nothing but cruel to him... He fought for me, he fought for Tracy, he fought for all of you, he fought for Abercrombie .. he fought for other horses so that people would be made aware of what can happen...

He may not be here with us physically but he is in spirit and will remain forever.

We intend to not let this go..There has been a reward put out by Hanna & Anderson Attorneys at Law for the arrest of the people who have done this to him.. Any information please contact us. We are trying to get all media involved in this cruel act. Fitch did not die in vain, he opened the eyes of many and not only did he save his brother Abercrombie he may have helped to save the lives of many other horses.

Jen

Let's only hope those responsible are quickly caught and that Fitch's spirit will live forever and lead the charge for change.

###
Corinne

What a lovely story. You and Blaze were meant to be together, and Dozer sent him!

I, too, needed Fitch to live. But I know in my heart that he lives in equine heaven, because he's already been met by the big guy.

We just have to do what we can, when we can, when we have the strength, to make sure that Barbaro is not SO busy greeting new residents that he has time to get his love-clouds straight! ;)

Mary: can you PLEASE STOP GOING THERE? Can you think of someone else besides yourself and this obsession about the false start? Can you think of how this makes the Jacksons feel to read your words? Do you really think that EDGAR PRADO would have endangered this horse whom he loved just in order to run the race? Do you? Do you think that Michal would have asked that? Do you think the Jacksons would have asked that? You need to get productive and busy on issues that we CAN do something about: like burning horse slaughter houses to the ground in the congress and the senate with groundbreaking legislation to protect America's horses. PLEASE> you have to stop torturing yourself with this WHAT IF stuff...because it isn't even a WHAT IF> PRADO WOULD NOT HAVE RUN THE HORSE IF HE HAD THOUGHT ANYTHING WAS WRONG. please, if you won't stop this foryour oqn wellbeing, please stop it for our wellbeing.....

Good morning Alex:

A patient lot we are. Keep up the good work. Thanks for all you do. Don't know how you do it all, but thanks.

##

We appreciate all you do Alex.

Stay warm with that weather you're having there. Spring is getting closer each day.

Corrine,

What a beautiful story! I am so empowered by this kind of evidence. Those to whom we are connected by love stay near us after they transition into their new reality. They help us and guide us.

Barbaro is also near us and doing great things. All the love and energy healing that we have sent to him has probably made him an Archangel.

I can still cry everyday for Barbaro and other animal beings that have been special to me. At the same time, I know they are still alive and very much in my life.

Blessings on you,Corrine, and the important healing work you gift to clients, FOB, Dozer, and Blaze,

Shirley
California

Rosie update: a SHOCKER.... her head is in the feed bucket!

Ro & Brady

###
So sorry to hear the loss of Fitch..you will be in our hearts sweet little guy.

Thank you Alex. Be safe and God Bless.

####
Alex...you and Hawty Creek...that is good.

and Mrs. Jackson called...I hope both of your spirits were lifted....

thank you for all you do...you have patience of Job.

####
Jonna, AMEN!

Hi FOBs:
Dawn has worked tirelessly on the situation at Cavel, the pollution problem and the DeKalb Sanitary District Board. We need to step up with letters to support her campaign. They are right where we want them: high profile, negative side. They are polluting the water and getting away with it.
She needs letters. The next meeting is March 21st and she wants to present letters to all involved.
We need to show these people that their situation is no longer a community issue. It's gone nationwide.
Here's what I ask: Take 5 minutes, check her thread, send a letter. Let's get people from as many states as possible.
The plant in Kaufman, Tx. has had 29 pollution violations and never paid a dime. They got away with this, in part, because it was a local issue, "pre-Barbaro" if you will, meaning people outside their community had no idea until Barbaro and this website taught us about slaughter and the slaughterhouses.
We have the power of knowledge to put pressure on Cavel and the authorities in DeKalb. So please, let's support Dawn who has put so much into this.
In addition, this is the type of information the senators and representatives need to hear. Many of them are unaware of the pollution violations. This is great leverage so please inform your aides.
Please check Dawn's thread and send a letter. We have a great opportunity here so let's use it.
Daryl

Dawn's thread on the Discussion Board:
Under "Anti-slaughter" "Urgent: Need letters - Re-Cavel"

Morning All, Good Morning Angel Barbaro and all the others in equine Heaven (Felix, Opie, Fitch etc) - enjoy your day.

###
Ro - your making me laugh this morning.
Hay Brady!!

###
Prayers for a safe delivery Rosie :)

####
thank you Daryl...

I enjoy hearing from the guys on the board too.

LET US NOT BE PASSIVE...BUT TAKE ACTION!!!!!

Made my calls, made my calls, made my calls. Please, everyone it only takes a minute, i swear...

life is so tenuous...we are losing a dear, dear woman who gave so much of her life for greyhounds in NC... she is now in Hospice care...and I can't stop crying about how hard she battled against the terrible toll of bone pain....sorry: i am so angry and sad today...trust that Millicent will care for all our animals in Heaven...her sweet, gentle ways will bewitch our little Fitch, I am sure...and all the greyhounds who died for THAT miserable "sport..."
Sorry all....this just feels like too much today.
keeping a prayer for our Lady of the Perpetual Pregnancy....and for Fitch's family left here on earth. And for the horses who will die in fear and confusion...it;s just too much.

**FITCH**

I see the first morning light through the clouds,

a sunrise bearing life to a new day,

journeys await you, dearest friend,

fear not of the unknown, for the path upon which

you graze shoulders a Rainbow at your feet....

oh but listen you hear a silent voice, an angel,

a Spirit that carries you over that Bridge,

and along the way, beside you is an old familiar Friend,

Yes, you knew him too, just like mere mortals,

He is Our Champion, Our Human Glory.....and he's
come to comfort you now, forever in his pasture,

'cause dear Fitch, he's welcomed you across that finish line,

to share in his Pride, in his care, and in the Love that is YOU, dearest Friend....

BELIEVE IN BARBARO, BELIEVE IN FITCH!!

I was so hoping the news would be good about Fitch but it was not to be. He had suffered so much and now he will be encircled by God's love without pain. I pray that this world will change and that people will no more treat God's creatures in such cruel ways. Rest in peace sweet Fitch. Thank you so much to everyone who tried to save him and make his last hours as comfortable as possible. BARBARO IS IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER

##Cal - Alex emailed to say his computer is broken, and the one he is using can't remove the posts from last night. He will have it sorted out, but may take him a few days to remove them.

Love, Light and Protection for The Spirit of The Horse

###

Rosie cam, I am showing nothing but a black screen, anyone else?

#####
To Sue M., Judy in Canada, Jane in CT (I'm in CT too!) and Skylar:

Thank you for your kind words. I am typing this through cloudy, tear filled eyes.

Bless all of you!!

##
To Alex - I'm sorry. You are right. I will take the high road.

Corrine in CT

The bumper stickers are wonderful. How do I choose just one!

Poor little Fitch, he did not even get a chance at life, but he was loved as he crossed the Bridge to meet up with Barbaro.

Thank you for this site Alex. Thank you for all you do.

I have no problem ignoring the trolls. Ignoring them really is the best - which includes not even saying you are going to email Alex. Bad behavior always gets worse before it goes away so folks will really have to control their urge to respond.

If you absolutely can't hold your fingers what about leaving the board for awhile and going to the chat room to "dress a troll"

Please, if you haven't yet....read Equine Heaven today.....and please take note of Alex's post, timestamp: 4:24 P.M.

All FOB's have a great day today....let's keep this House that Barbaro Built, and Barbaro's Family up and running:) STRONG AND SWIFT AS THE WIND, just like our Bobby!

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Mary L. I see Rosie eating.

Ro & Brady

#
Thank you, Dave, for posting what Jen wrote. God bless her dear soul.

#
Alex, I apologize for my recent comments about alternate receipes and spring dress up for T's. It was making me laugh through tears, but I won't go there again. Apologies for offending.

Sue M., Pittsburgh

Poor Dear Fitch. It is probably better for him. The person who did this should now face more severe charges. Sad morning.
Good morning Barbaro. You know what to do. Welcome Fitch.

###
Mary S., Thanks, I know it will work out. I just don't want someone whose flying through the posts to think it was really me. By the way, I'm Glad you're back.

I think Rosie looks bigger from behind at a glance than she did last night from behind...

unless it's my night-blindness catching up to me,

I dunno....

### Deirdre in California -- What a grat idea re; the security cameras. HORSE WATCH?!?!

### RE: TROLLS and Negativity ---
Please ignore it. ALEX has requested that everyone ignore it and NOT respond to it. Like he says, this is his passion not his job. Either respect his guidelines or go start your on website.
Everytime I see the words "Troll" "Troll Soup" Etc. I log off in disappointment by the wasted energy. I know some are frustrated to no end by it but you are fanning the flames by responding.

### Fitch, Thank you for calling us to you in your time of need. Hopefully, our love brought you comfort when you needed it most and our tears eased your pain. Dear, sweet Fitch may your spirit soar now as you run like the wind with Barbaro and Foggy. We will surround Jen, Tracy and Abercrombie with our love and strength and help them through this.

Shirley in CA

Blessings to you too and thank you for your kind words. My cup runnith over............

Corrine in CT

Jonna - were are you at? I too have been following Millicent's struggle with cancer - it doesn't sound like it will be much longer for this lady - I have heard so much about her and what she did for greyhounds - I volunteer with a few rescues and have four of my own, wonderful, gentle creatures.

Regarding Rosie - I have told you all this before - ROSIE IS NOT PREGNANT - she suffers from CHIF - Constant (Continual) Head In Foodbag Syndrome :)

Bless you Jonna! Remember the good does out weigh the bad by a big margin! So much good news does not make headlines. Mother Theresa once said she would read a newspaper when it finally tells the truth - in other words when it would report on all the amazing deeds of your friend who helped greyhounds for example. When I get sucked into the bad news vortex it brings me down and I become less effective and less joyous. We are not helping the animals by becomming depressed and angry. I'm not saying don't have your feelings, I'm just saying remember the big picture.

Fitch was a hero, plain and simple. He died to bring light and awareness to the plight of our speechless friends. Let us find our voices to speak for them.

###
Ken Z, that was a beautiful post for Fitch, thank you for sharing.

Judy

**Kathy**

CHIF...LOL

Stephanie, Thanks for update!! Check your paypal! Go buy some milk testing strips! My treat! LOL

Carol - Thank you for the ZIP codes because I need them!

Socorro - Thank you for the links, you make it so much easier.

Time to make some calls! I like watching Rosie while I am on the phone...lol

kathy re millicent, send your home email, please..thanks I just spoke with her gallant mother this morning: j

greyhounds4me2003@yahoo.com

Alex,

Your patience is appreciated, please don't let the actions of a few.....

Oooooooohhhhhhhh Aaaaallllllleeeeeexxxxxxx !!!!!

Now I'll have to use my brain and figure out another way to have fun..........

Okay, you're the boss. And a good boss at that, I should say.

Sorry,
Glenda

For All That You Do Alex It Is Heartfelt. Blessings.

###
Dawn in Omaha - I live in SC where this terrible thing happened to Fitch. This crime is a felony in SC. I hope they catch the responsible parties and I also hope a certain judge I know of is the criminal judge who gets their trial. He'll throw the book at them. I was on jury duty last year on an animal abuse case and he gave the guy 20 years for what he did to a dog. I will not go into details - but it was sick.

###
Corinne - I loved reading your post about Dozer and Blaze. You were so fortunate to have had Dozer and also to have gotten Blaze. I hope you have many healthy years together. I had a connection like that with a Great Dane I once had. Her name was Carolina, and I could just look into her eyes and know when she didn't feel good or had a fever or something like that. She finally got bone cancer in her right front leg and only lived about 3 months after the diagnosis. She was 10 years old and I still miss her so much.

I'm beginning to believe that Rosie isn't pregnant at all - it's just a big hoax to get a lot of food in her feed bag. It seems like all she does it eat. I was watching over her for over three hours last night and that seems to be her main source of entertainment.

I know that Fitch is with our Barbaro now. I'm just glad that he knew some love and kindness before he passed over. He got to find out that not all humans are terrible. I think he's frolicking around the heavenly meadows with Barbaro and gang and looking down on us knowing we did all we could for him.

Proud to be an FOB!!!

###
Thanks Rosemarie. sigh. must be my computer (again).. will go and reboot it and see what happens, that don't work, I will "boot" the computer.. hmmm window is real close to the computer desk too.. :-)

###

Alex, thank you and will do as you ask!

Just wanted to give everyone and update.... Rosie is still pregnant!

Although now I'm starting to believe that Kathy is right, since it seems that most of the times I check the cam, Rosie's head is in the feedbag. Hee hee!!

Can't wait for the foal to appear. Will take some of the sting out of the sadness over little Fitch.

All watching Rosie - when she stands with her buns to the camera does her belly look lopsided? Mares will carry the baby on the right or left horn of the uterus. They will look lopsided until just before birth when the baby rolls over to be born. Once they "center" we will be a little closer.

I have a Mac so I rely on your descriptions.

Hay, Rosie,

I bet I can have my foal before you do !

###
Daryl,
Way ahead of you. Sent out my e-mail to Voinovich this morning. Since he has not responded to anyone in Ohio, that I know of.
In the e-mail I pointed out the fact that the slaughter houses are poring toxins into the water and asked who was taking care of the people who have to live with this, just to point out there are more issues with HS than just the horses, hoping this just MIGHT get his attention. I also mentioned little Fitch and the tie in of horse theft in America and where most end up and why, along with links so he could read for himself, if he didn't want to take "our" word for it.
I hope he responds and responds by being a co-sponsor.
Have a great day all. Off to try to do some house work...such fun!!! LOL

Love,
Verna

####
To Dale in Aiken

I know exactly what you're talking about. Just one look and you know how they feel. I'm sorry for your loss of Carolina. She is with you though, forever. That kind of love never dies. Thank you for responding. Just to let you know, as I type this Neil Diamond's "Sweet Caroline" is playing on the radio. Now I have goosebumps everywhere!!!! Just incredible!!

Corrine in CT

**Judy.....thank you.

**Lynz.....thank you for that tidbit on Rosie

**FOBs....the Bloodhorse Commemorative of Big B..
I just received it in today's mail...
just from browsing through, I have to say, EXCELLENT! Tears for Our Boy..

###
Stephanie-

Try this...Walk to Rosies stall and say "Foal whenever you want...I'm going to the Bahamas!" It worked on one of our mares who had been faking me out for weeks...of course - it could have been a coincidence.

Has the foal centered?

Verna,

I just phoned my congressman John Hall in NY to express my support of HR249 which is to be taken up by the House Natural Resources Committee tomorrow...I asked that he co-sponsor this Bill against horseslaughter, so let's keep working these folks in Congress....good job, Verna

###

here is a good web page that explains about pregnant mares, and go to Page 2 and it explains and shows pictures of the foaling process and how the foal "turns"..

sorry I don't have my blue link going, still having some computer issues.. going to reboot one more time.. sigh

http://www.horseweb-uk.com/features/preg.htm

Corrine that was a wonderful story!

I haven't posted in a few days and was really on the fence about continuing to come to this site. Don't get me wrong I love Alex's updates but the last couple of months have been difficult. I guess the easy thing would be for me to turn my back and walk away. Close my eyes to the abuse that is going on but if we do that then the abuse continues. I admire the people that work for these rescue groups. That is a tough job.

I can't spend as much time and money as I would like on these issues because of work and my own 5 pets but I try.

I take comfort in the fact that I and many others have rescued many unwanted animals and given them very happy lives. Knowing that helps me get through the pain we all seem to be going through right now.

Corinne - That was such a wonderful post about Dozer and Blaze. We are struggling with whether to get a new cat so soon after losing Boots. I think he, like Dozer, will let us know the right time.
FOBS: Can someone please let me know about after hours calls to Senate/House? It is just not possible for me to call/fax from work. I want to make sure the calls will be tracked. Thank you, thank you!

###
Marie, I understand what you're saying, it has been hard to come here and read the sad posts, but there are many many more that are uplifting, plus Alex's updates and the horse racing news, reading the work everyone is doing for Horse Slaughter, etc. Just having your support for animals keeps the "house that Barbaro built" going. I think you'll always find comfort here as I have.

Judy

###
Ken, I also made the contacts on HR249 after I sent out my e-mail. I have a great fondness for the Friesian breed of horse, is my favorite(sorry) and I have been e-mailing the flier I made up to all the breeders of Friesians. They have VERY STRICT breeding guidelines. I want to make sure they are aware of what is going on, since the Friesian is a draft breed, there are plenty of connections to breeders of draft horses of other breeds. It is important they know a horse they sell could end up at a SH just because of their weight. I'm hitting the vets next!!!
Now since I gave myself away that I am not cleaning the house I had better get to it.

#### Alex, you have spoken and I will listen.
I too am sorry.

Love to all,
Verna

Looks like Rosie is getting a little walk-about. I think she's still carrying to the left, Lynz.

REPOST TARGET LIST TUESDAY 6 MARCH

Good Morning FOB’s

We got a wonderful message yesterday from Congressman Whitfield. He is working very hard to make this legislation happen. We must help him and all the others that are working so hard for the future of our horses.
The call list is in from Habitat for Horses. Please call the following on TUESDAY MARCH 6

SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE, SCIENCE AND TRANSPORTATION (S 311)

-Senator Bill Nelson
Phone #: 202-224-5274
Fax #: 202-228-2183

-Senator Mark Pryor
Phone #: 202-224-2353
Fax #: 202-228-0908

-Senator John D. Rockefeller, IV
Phone #: 202-224-6472
Fax #: 202-224-7665

-Senator Gordon Smith
Phone #: 202-224-3753
Fax #: 202-228-3997

-Senator John Sununu
Phone #: 202-224-2841
Fax #: 202-228-4131

And please don’t forget to call your OWN representative and senators and urge them to co-sponsor.

Thanks and have a great day!!!

Shelley and Debra

Posted by: ShelleyA at March 6, 2007 1:58 PM

####
Socorro's blue links above for those who need help finding their reps...

####
FsOB:
Check out www.equine-heaven.com
Fitch has landed, is fine, and has already been selected for the team.

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

They just took Rosie somewhere. What's up with that?

###
Laurie H.,
If you're here, please know that I'm thinking about you. Take care.

Rosie is back and looking for food. All is well.
She's such a pretty girl isn't she?

Admittedly I have been one of the chefs involved in the troll soup and I will respect Alex's wishes that we just ignore. It's just been so darn much fun stirring the pot of troll soup in the evening hours while watching OLPP eating.

I am deeply saddened over the loss of little Fitch. Human's capacity for cruelty can be so overwhelming.

In Honor Of Fitch keep those calls, faxes and emails going. Let's also provide some encouragement to get the Wild Horse Act out of Committee. It is absolutely despicable what the BLM is doing to an American Icon.

Karen....your evening calls count. Leave your message of support on the voicemail and it will be added to the tally the following day.

Our next fundraiser may be to save Alex's computer from the feedlot...Buy him a NEW one!

#####
Oh Equine-Heaven
You always get it sooo right
Love you,
-Joanne in NJ

###

Cathy, same here. I gave myself a demotion too, no longer the leader of the you know what!! lol.

###
To Marie from Atlanta

I feel your pain. These are difficult times. You are here and that is what's important. Don't minimize taking in unwanted animals and giving them a loving home. That make you and angel to all of them and to everyone here. None of us has "enough" time or money to save all of the animals, but together we can do alot. So please, don't feel bad. You are doing exactly what needs to be done.

Corrine in CT

***Doe,
Don't know if you saw my post last night. I heard from Laurie H via email. She is still weak but wanted me to tell everyone thanks for all the support and love that has been sent her way. She said she could feel us there with her.

I wanted to make sure you saw this, you are one of her favorite on the Board.

Continue to lift Laurie H in your prayers.

I think it's just amazing how Stephanie gets Rosie to back up to the fence for her.

### Cathy, Harriette,MaryL... you guys...LOL
Night time is a fun time, but I guess we have to find something else to play with.
OOOOHHHHH ROSIEEEEEEE.....

Verna

Our hearts break again this morning for Fitch, so I thought you'd all like to hear some good news. The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals has affirmed the earlier decision that horse slaughter is illegal in Texas. Both Texas slaughterhouses will have to now cease operations. See below.

Matt

www.oldfriendsequine.org

-------------------------

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Federal Court of Appeals Affirms Ruling Declaring Horse Slaughter Illegal in Texas

Two of the Nation's Three Horse Slaughter Plants Must Now Close

WASHINGTON (March 6, 2007)—Today, The Humane Society of the United States hailed a decision yesterday by the entire United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit to affirm an earlier panel decision upholding a Texas state law banning the sale of horsemeat for human consumption.

Without comment or dissent, the 19 judges of the full court rejected a petition by three foreign-owned slaughter plants seeking full court review of a three-judge panel’s January 19, 2006 decision upholding the Texas horse slaughter law. The slaughter plants had claimed the Texas law at issue was unconstitutional, an argument that was quickly brushed aside by the Court in its January opinion and again by its decision denying rehearing yesterday.

“This is the end of the line for the horse slaughter industry in Texas," said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO for The HSUS. "The kill floors should be still and quiet in Texas if the owners of these foreign-owned plants obey the law.”

“Only one slaughterhouse continues to operate in the United States, and it is time for Congress to step in and halt this grisly business once and for all,” Pacelle added.

The HSUS has been actively campaigning to ban the slaughter of American horses for export for human consumption.

Facts
· The criminal code of Texas has long prohibited the sale or possession of horse meat, but the law has never been enforced.
· According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 100,800 American horses were slaughtered in three foreign-owned slaughter houses in 2006. Another 30,000 were sent to Mexico or Canada for slaughter.
· Opponents of the slaughter ban argue the practice constitutes a humane way to kill old animals, but investigations by The HSUS show cruelty and abuse throughout the process. USDA statistics show that more than 92 percent of horses slaughtered in the U.S. are not old and infirm but in good condition.
· Legislation to ban the slaughter of American horses nationwide was introduced in both the U.S. House and Senate by Sens. Mary Landrieu (D-La.) and John Ensign (R-Nev.) and Reps. Janice Schakowsky (D-Ill.), Ed Whitfield (R-Ky.), John Spratt (D-S.C.), and Nick Rahall (D-W.Va.) introduced a companion bill, H.R. 503.
· The measure received tremendous bipartisan support in the 109th Congress, winning a vote of 263 to 146 in the House. It stalled in the Senate in late 2006, however, and was not brought up for a vote before Congress adjourned, even though a similar effort had been overwhelmingly approved by the Senate in 2005.
· Nearly 70 percent of Americans are strongly against the slaughter of American horses for human consumption overseas.

Timeline
· In 2002, responding to citizen and local government concerns about the two foreign-owned horse slaughter plants in the state – Dallas Crown in Kaufman and Beltex in Fort Worth – then-Texas Attorney General John Cornyn issued a written opinion that the 1949 Texas law applies and may be enforced.
· In response, the Tarrant County District Attorney attempted to enforce the law, but last year a federal district court in Texas ruled that the law was repealed by another statute and preempted by federal law.
· The District Attorney appealed that decision last year, and the HSUS filed an amicus brief in the case in March 2006.
· In January 2007, the court of appeals upheld the law, flatly rejecting the slaughterhouses' arguments that the ban on the sale of horsemeat does not protect horses from theft and abuse, and that regulating horse slaughter can achieve those same purposes, noting instead that "it is a matter of commonsense that…alternatives…do not preserve horses as well as completely prohibiting the sale and transfer of horsemeat for human consumption."

JASON'S HS ARTICLE HAS BEEN POSTED!

Hi everyone!
The article I've been updating you about (written by Jason Shandler) on HS has been posted on espn.com. I don't know how to blue link, but the address is

http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/horse/news/story?id=2781518

Hope that works; maybe one of the pros can bluelink it for me!
I think he did a great job, and he is really committed to this issue. Let's return the support and let him know how much we appreciate his work.

The article also has a link at the bottom to the Humane Society page, which tells people how to contact their representatives. I am going to email his article to people, and urge them to take action. If we all did this, imagine how many people we could reach!

I know the past 24 hours have been rough, and I am also very upset about Fitch. Getting a little more publicity for our cause gives me hope that one day soon others won't have to suffer the way he did. And I really do believe that he is now whole and happy.

Enjoy making your calls today!

Steph

###
Corinne, thank you for expressing to Marie so much better what I was trying to say also.

Judy

####
To Karen in TX -

Take as much time as you need. I sometimes still feel that I should have waited a little longer, but the grief has not left me yet and I can't imagine not having Blaze. He has made the grief a little easier to handle. I just know that our babies are still with us and want us to be happy. They know that we have more love to give and are happy to share their people with other animals. Isn't that wonderful? How unselfish our animals are. If only people could learn what they already know...........the world would be a much better place.

So take care. I am sorry for the loss of your Boots. I hope soon you will find room in your heart for a new love.

Corrine in CT

Mornin' Alex!

Warm thoughts from sunny CA! Stay on your horses - everything hurts worse when it's cold - especially the ground!

Wondering what's become of Slew? Is he having a vacation?

Deirdre

the following is the e-mail address for Madame speaker of the house...Nancy Pelosi. Please, she can be of help in requesting prompt resolution to this bill HR 503.

AmericanVoices@mail.house.gov.

Thanks for the link in update 1563, Alex!

Steph

Rosie Update:

Took Rosie out for a short walk-about. She was done, and you would have to be here to see when she says I am done. We know that done means done. Cathy Potter and Sally Spencer both can confirm Rosie's attitude.

The baby is centered, when she shifts her weight it appears that baby rolls to one side, but the little stinker is centered.

In regards to staying connected this morning, it was the Mare Stare servers we were having difficulty with this AM. We apologize but unfortunately we do not have control over that situation.

Thank You

Stephanie

Therese,

Thank you for acknowledging my special kitty Clotildhe.

I'm with you on an "eye for an eye"; since we are held to the bounds of legal procedure, maybe they'll do an "eye for an eye" on the heinous humans in jail. How sick must these people be to ever hurt animals for sport, prank, profit or mischief.

Fitch was a good boy. And he left this world feeling the love of Jen and those around him.

We humans need to continue to try to do better . . .

Alex -- love to hear Englishmen use the word "passion" !!!! Thank you, Alex. You are a friend.

#
Matt--thank you so very much for that posting! I can scarcely believe it, but this time, the tears are tears of pure joy!
It seems that the time is coming for this gruesome practice to cease.
God bless all the brave and tireless folks who pushed and pushed to get this done.
Sue M. Pittsburgh

Good Morning Earth Angels. I am so sorry to read the recent posts, and all that has happened. Our good intentions will carry us through.

Thank you, Socorro, for the links. Can you please email me?

R.I.P. Fitch and Candy Stripes.

AWESOME news Matt - now on to get that Illinois plant closed and to stop the transport to Canada and Mexico

TOTALLY OFF TOPIC - "Scooter" Libby was just convicted on 4 out of 5 charges....

Sorry, I am heartbroken and just cannot speak about horses at all today...

KEN Z - beautiful, as always!

###

Thanks Stephanie..I was thinking "what a short walk!!"

Here's a cute prayer posted on a local rescue website. The Wild Rose Equine Rescue and Sanctuary in Alberta, Canada.

"When they lay me down to rest, place my rope and spurs upon my chest. Ask my friends to carry me and then go set my horses free"

Matt,
Tears of JOY! Thanks.

Fitch:

The tears are coming and they will not stop. You are a hero and I am so sorry that you went through this pain. You are a martyr.

Barbro, please take special care of this little one.

FOBS, all of you are fabulous and God bless.

"Fitch has landed, is fine, and has already been selected for the team." Friar Tuck (quoted from Equine Heaven)

***All watching Rosie - when she stands with her buns to the camera does her belly look lopsided?***

When I checked earlier this morning, she appeared lopsided - big bulge to the left. Must check again.

(((Fitch))) This is so hearbreaking, so WRONG! I am so mad at the thing which did this.

(((Angel Barbaro)))

Did I read Matt's post correctly? I can't believe it!! Such horrible and such wonderful news all in the same day. Happy tears! Happy tears! Does this mean that they have no recourse? Are they shut down for good? I think I feel a happy dance coming on..............

Whooooooo Hooooooooooo!!!

Corrine in CT

Stephanie: Thanks so much for the up-date on Rosie. Am sure that we'll all laugh about this interminable wait . . . when it's over!

Matt

THANK YOU for that great news!! Now to get the Horse Protection Law passed so we can stop all slaughter and stop the horses from being sent over the borders to Mexico and Canada.

FYI. Beltex has been building a new slaughter house in Mexico. We need to get this bill passed so they can NOT get any more of US horses!!

Watch out Canada, We will be helping our fellow Canadian Horse lovers in stopping the slaughter houses in Canada. I have already been active in this force also!!

Can you feel us breathing down your necks???

great news, got to email the mayor of Kafman!!

###

Harriette,
Thank you so much for letting me know about Laurie. No, you're right I didn't see your post last night so I really appreciate you keeping me informed.

Laurie is probably the nicest person that I've "never" met. You don't have to know her to love her.

If you hear from her again please tell her that I'm thinking about her and I hope she feels better soon. She's just a sweetheart.

Thanks again Harriette.

Matt!!!!!!!
I really needed to hear this bit of news! It was about time America stood up again.
Soon Illinois will be silenced aswell and the final step will come from Washington.
Thankyou God...you are shoing us the light at the end of the tunnel.
Jenny

####
Matt, Thanks for the news. When do they actually have to close down? The sooner the better. We are getting closer I hope!

I went to bed last night praying for Fitch, and am so heartbroken this morning. The suffering of animals just completely takes the joy out of my days. But I heard recently about the heart being a muscle and that this muscle needs exercise, and that every time we love, feel compassion, suffer, we get bigger, better hearts. I think about Barbaro's heart, how big it was, how he got up from every procedure, ran back to his stall, ate and looked around for the next thing to "do" in the life he had been given. I'm not asking people not to take a break, because compassion and caring includes caring for yourself, doing what you need to, to continue to be the person you are. But I am saying that you all have really, really big hearts, that are growing every day. And this will just lead to a more compassionate, caring world. So, Fitch, I think you were sent to grow my heart a little. It really, really hurts, but think where it might lead.

Yes...ESPN...Thank you....

Rosie TV
Did you guys just see Rosie laughing? Wonder if Misty is doing standup now.

####
Linda M. in TX

WELL SAID!!!!!

Corrine in CT

That's great news, Thanks Matt. You have just brightened my day.

PLEASE READ>>>>>>HOT OFF THE WIRE

Federal Court of Appeals Affirms Ruling Declaring Horse Slaughter Illegal in
Texas


March 6, 2007


Two of the Nation's Three Horse Slaughter Plants Must Now Close

WASHINGTON —Today, The Humane Society of the United States hailed a decision
yesterday by the entire United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
to affirm an earlier panel decision upholding a Texas state law banning the
sale of horsemeat for human consumption.

Without comment or dissent, the 19 judges of the full court rejected a
petition by three foreign-owned slaughter plants seeking full court review of
a three-judge panel's January 19, 2006 decision upholding the Texas horse
slaughter law. The slaughter plants had claimed the Texas law at issue was
unconstitutional, an argument that was quickly brushed aside by the Court in
its January opinion and again by its decision denying rehearing yesterday.

"This is the end of the line for the horse slaughter industry in Texas," said
Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO for The HSUS. "The kill floors should be
still and quiet in Texas if the owners of these foreign-owned plants obey the
law."

"Only one slaughterhouse continues to operate in the United States, and it is
time for Congress to step in and halt this grisly business once and for all,"
Pacelle added.

The HSUS has been actively campaigning to ban the slaughter of American
horses for export for human consumption.


Facts

The criminal code of Texas has long prohibited the sale or possession of
horse meat, but the law has never been enforced.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 100,800 American horses were
slaughtered in three foreign-owned slaughter houses in 2006. Another 30,000
were sent to Mexico or Canada for slaughter.
Opponents of the slaughter ban argue the practice constitutes a humane way to
kill old animals, but investigations by The HSUS show cruelty and abuse
throughout the process. USDA statistics show that more than 92 percent of
horses slaughtered in the U.S. are not old and infirm but in good condition.
Legislation to ban the slaughter of American horses nationwide was introduced
in both the U.S. House and Senate by Sens. Mary Landrieu (D-La.) and John
Ensign (R-Nev.) and Reps. Janice Schakowsky (D-Ill.), Ed Whitfield (R-Ky.),
John Spratt (D-S.C.), and Nick Rahall (D-W.Va.) introduced a companion bill,
H.R. 503.
The measure received tremendous bipartisan support in the 109th Congress,
winning a vote of 263 to 146 in the House. It stalled in the Senate in late
2006, however, and was not brought up for a vote before Congress adjourned,
even though a similar effort had been overwhelmingly approved by the Senate
in 2005.
Nearly 70 percent of Americans are strongly against the slaughter of American
horses for human consumption overseas.
Timeline

In 2002, responding to citizen and local government concerns about the two
foreign-owned horse slaughter plants in the state – Dallas Crown in Kaufman
and Beltex in Fort Worth – then-Texas Attorney General John Cornyn issued a
written opinion that the 1949 Texas law applies and may be enforced.
In response, the Tarrant County District Attorney attempted to enforce the
law, but last year a federal district court in Texas ruled that the law was
repealed by another statute and preempted by federal law.
The District Attorney appealed that decision last year, and the HSUS filed an
amicus brief in the case in March 2006.
In January 2007, the court of appeals upheld the law, flatly rejecting the
slaughterhouses' arguments that the ban on the sale of horsemeat does not
protect horses from theft and abuse, and that regulating horse slaughter can
achieve those same purposes, noting instead that "it is a matter of
commonsense that…alternatives…do not preserve horses as well as completely
prohibiting the sale and transfer of horsemeat for human consumption."
The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal
protection organization – backed by 10 million Americans, or one of every 30.
For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection
of all animals through advocacy, education, and hands-on programs.
Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty -- On the web at
www.HumaneSociety.org.

POST SCRIPT....

WE MUST GET THE ANTI-SLAUGHTER BILL PASSED WHICH PREVENTS TRANSPORT OF HORSES TO SLAUGHTER OR THEY
WILL, AS THEY ARE NOW, BEING SENT TO MEXICO FOR AN EVEN MORE INHUMANE FORM OF SLAUGHTER...CURRENT RATE 600 A WK....

WE MUST STILL PASS THE BILL TO MAKE THIS TRANSPORT ILLEGAL...THE FIGHT IS NOT OVER
CALL THOSE REPS!!!!!!

BARBARO SHIRTS at zazzle.com

I just got an email from zazzle.com indicating they are offering FREE SHIPPING if you purchase two or more APPAREL items. I copy/pasted details - you can read them at the bottom of this post.

Especially with the Birthday Celebrations coming in April, you might want something special to wear expressing how you feel about not only Barbaro, but also the various "causes" that represent his Legacy.

SO,IF YOU ARE INTERESTED:
Type in "Barbaro" as the search once you get to the home page of zazzle.com

When you see the products, look for "GlendaJo" under one of them and click on it.

Once the page opens, click "view all products".

Then on the right side of the screen you can choose "apparel" to see the dozen or so T-shirts I designed. When you click on an individual design, you can choose from many style and color options.(There are other shirts designed by different people, but only the royalties I earn with GlendaJo sales go to horse rescue.)

In my experience with zazzle, free shipping is somewhat rare, so if you want to buy shirts, now might be the right time. The offer runs from March 6 thru March 11 and you have to make sure you type in the coupon code MADMARCH2007 to get the deal.

This is the copy/paste info:

Two or more qualifying apparel items (any style from the Mens, Womens, Kids, and Baby categories) must be purchased to quality for the free shipping offer. The coupon code MADMARCH2007 must be applied during checkout to receive the offer. The free shipping offer is for ground shipping to U.S. addresses only. Shipping charges will apply to orders being shipped on an expedited basis or outside the U.S. Offer is valid on March 6, 2007 from 12:01am PST through March 11, 2007 11:59am PST. Your order must be placed during that time to qualify for this special offer.

Thank you for considering this information and considering a purchase.
Glenda Jo

Matt, Pamela
Great news, although totally predictable, as the three-judge panel got everything right in January.

Please provide a link if you can -- thanks!

Pamela
That is such a good point -- we can't celebrate until we've shut down the transport of horses to Mexico. Please make your calls!

####
FOB's---

Let us not forget about Appache. He needs some light. Only has 10 candles.

HOT NEWS TODAY MARCH 6

TEXAS SH PLANTS MUST CLOSE

(appeal denied; ruling we knew about, stands)

http://forums.prospero.com/TimWoolley/messages?msg=6075.1

OY am I happy. Sorry if this is old news. Just read about it at the Forum/DB.

Great news about the Texas slaughterhouses but there is a GREAT BIG BUT here....more horess will be shipped to Mexico where the process is much more gruesome. This makes it even more imperative that we pass the Ban as soon as possible. Keep the calls flowing...please...if you don't know what it's like at the Mexico slaughterhouses...believe me you don't want to know.

####
Alex, what a sport you are, this has to be a HUGH undertaking. God Bless.

PLEASE, SOMEONE POST THE LINKS TO CALL...NOW IS THE TIME FOR THE HOLD OUTS ON SPONSORS>>>>>

###

If anyone gets the Horse Illustrated Magazine, there is a GREAT article in there on Barbaro. I will see if they have it online to read.

This is what was posted at DB

Federal Court of Appeals Affirms Ruling Declaring Horse Slaughter Illegal in Texas

March 6, 2007

Two of the Nation's Three Horse Slaughter Plants Must Now Close

WASHINGTON �Today, The Humane Society of the United States hailed a decision yesterday by the entire United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit to affirm an earlier panel decision upholding a Texas state law banning the sale of horsemeat for human consumption.

Without comment or dissent, the 19 judges of the full court rejected a petition by three foreign-owned slaughter plants seeking full court review of a three-judge panel's January 19, 2006 decision upholding the Texas horse slaughter law. The slaughter plants had claimed the Texas law at issue was unconstitutional, an argument that was quickly brushed aside by the Court in its January opinion and again by its decision denying rehearing yesterday.

"This is the end of the line for the horse slaughter industry in Texas," said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO for The HSUS. "The kill floors should be still and quiet in Texas if the owners of these foreign-owned plants obey the law."

"Only one slaughterhouse continues to operate in the United States, and it is time for Congress to step in and halt this grisly business once and for all," Pacelle added.

The HSUS has been actively campaigning to ban the slaughter of American horses for export for human consumption.

Facts

The criminal code of Texas has long prohibited the sale or possession of horse meat, but the law has never been enforced.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 100,800 American horses were slaughtered in three foreign-owned slaughter houses in 2006. Another 30,000 were sent to Mexico or Canada for slaughter.
Opponents of the slaughter ban argue the practice constitutes a humane way to kill old animals, but investigations by The HSUS show cruelty and abuse throughout the process. USDA statistics show that more than 92 percent of horses slaughtered in the U.S. are not old and infirm but in good condition.
Legislation to ban the slaughter of American horses nationwide was introduced in both the U.S. House and Senate by Sens. Mary Landrieu (D-La.) and John Ensign (R-Nev.) and Reps. Janice Schakowsky (D-Ill.), Ed Whitfield (R-Ky.), John Spratt (D-S.C.), and Nick Rahall (D-W.Va.) introduced a companion bill, H.R. 503.
The measure received tremendous bipartisan support in the 109th Congress, winning a vote of 263 to 146 in the House. It stalled in the Senate in late 2006, however, and was not brought up for a vote before Congress adjourned, even though a similar effort had been overwhelmingly approved by the Senate in 2005.

Nearly 70 percent of Americans are strongly against the slaughter of American horses for human consumption overseas.

Timeline

In 2002, responding to citizen and local government concerns about the two foreign-owned horse slaughter plants in the state � Dallas Crown in Kaufman and Beltex in Fort Worth � then-Texas Attorney General John Cornyn issued a written opinion that the 1949 Texas law applies and may be enforced.
In response, the Tarrant County District Attorney attempted to enforce the law, but last year a federal district court in Texas ruled that the law was repealed by another statute and preempted by federal law.
The District Attorney appealed that decision last year, and the HSUS filed an amicus brief in the case in March 2006.
In January 2007, the court of appeals upheld the law, flatly rejecting the slaughterhouses' arguments that the ban on the sale of horsemeat does not protect horses from theft and abuse, and that regulating horse slaughter can achieve those same purposes, noting instead that "it is a matter of commonsense that�alternatives�do not preserve horses as well as completely prohibiting the sale and transfer of horsemeat for human consumption."

The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization � backed by 10 million Americans, or one of every 30. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education, and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty -- On the web at www.HumaneSociety.org.

LET'S ROLL.................

Here are Cheryl's links:

HOUSE AND SENATE PHONE NUMBERS, FAX AND EMAIL

S 311 SENATE COSPONSORS


HR 503 HOUSE CO SPONSORS

Sorry I see that it was posted in full earlier.

Don't forget (as others have pointed out) that this does not end the problem; even if Illinois passes its pending bill, we still have to worry about export to Canada and Mexico - so all the more reason to push the federal law (HR 503 & S 311).

I would think today's ruling should give us more impetus in getting legislators to cosponsor.

Back to the faxes and phones, ladies and gentlemen (and other critters who can type or dictate).

POST SCRIPT....

WE MUST GET THE ANTI-SLAUGHTER BILL PASSED WHICH PREVENTS TRANSPORT OF HORSES TO SLAUGHTER OR THEY
WILL, AS THEY ARE NOW, BEING SENT TO MEXICO FOR AN EVEN MORE INHUMANE FORM OF SLAUGHTER...CURRENT RATE 600 A WK....

WE MUST STILL PASS THE BILL TO MAKE THIS TRANSPORT ILLEGAL...THE FIGHT IS NOT OVER
CALL THOSE REPS!!!!!!

Posted by: Pamela at March 6, 2007 6:33 PM

THIS IS THE LINK TO THE INTERVIEW FROM LA RADIO STATION THIS PAST WEEKEND....

CAUTION...NOT FOR THE FAINT OF HEART!!!!!!
IT GRAPHICALLY DETAILS THE METHOD OF SLAUGHTER
IN MEXICO...

BE WARNED

http://tinyurl.com/yryahg

Hi FOBs:
The ruling is high profile and the elected officials are sure to see it. So please, let's help Dawn with those letters to DeKalb. More support from our side in light of this latest action will help our cause.
Remember, we need a national ban on slaughter, the Texas ruling gives us attention, Cavel is hurting: let's stop them, if only temporarily, by getting the district to shut them down because of the pollution situation. Then, no horses will be slaughtered.
Please send letters per Dawn's instructions!
Thanks,
Daryl

Dawn's thread on the Discussion Board;
Anti-Slaughter! "Urgent: Need Letters - Re: Cavel

Alex: The article by Jason Shandler is the best I have seen yet. I don't know how anyone could read that and still support horse slaughter. I plan to use it when I contact my reps (again).

Jo Ann from TN

Pamie,

I just finished faxing and e-mailing the target list for today. Will call a little later when it isn't so crazy around my desek. On to Schumer and Clinton.

Ro & Brady

I cant believe it, their done, Thank You GOD for hearing our prayers.
This is just step one, but what a big step, I feel like yelling from the rooftop.
Sooooooooo happy right now I can't even put it into words. Oh Thank GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Now to shut down Cavel.... go to the DB if you can and get informed about the DeKalb sanitation dept. arm yourself and fire out those letters...
Oh what a great day!!!!!!!!!!!!!

###

Nice excerpt from the Horse Illustrated mag (written by Dr Laura Riley DVM:

"Our job is to hold on to our broken hearts and be patient long enough to find out just what Barbaro's legacy will be"

YAY WAHOO!! I was just almost gonna post that piece of news!!

Thanks! Everybody Well Done!! Now lets get after Cavel and close it down too!!!

jock4hire (lj)

Does this mean I can be proud to live in Texas?

Hi Alex

Hi FOBs

Love hearing about what you are doing every day working the horses. I have one question. When it's so cold in the morning, why don't you work the horses in the afternoon? Is it because they do better with the same routine every day? I have a thoroughbred but can't believe how much I've learned about them from your site. Thanks!

Called my senators today like a good FOB.

WE MUST CALL OUR REPS...IN OUR COMMITTEE MEETING SUNDAY, WE WERE TOLD BY OUR WASHINGTON CONTACTS THAT THE CALLS ARE NOT COMING IN...

TELL THEM THE BILL MUST GO THRU...

NOW...LET US PUSH OUR HARDEST...PUSH d**** IT...
LET THESE REPS...ANY REPS... LET THEM KNOW WHAT HAS HAPPENED..BUT THAT WE NEED THE BILL TO CLOSE THE FINAL LOOPHOLE......TRANSPORT!!!!!!

does anyone have a "form" letter that they are sending to the hs plant in Illinois - I would like to make sure everything is covered in my letter. (I'll change it around so it doesn't look like I copied :) )

Rosie - Down to the wire

New thread started by Mary L with pics off the Rosie cam.

http://forums.prospero.com/TimWoolley/messages?msg=6053.1

LIVING PROOF OF THE LIVING TRUTH

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

To all FOBs interested in horse rescue:

I have to say I am surprised and more than a little disappointed at the lack of response to the Easter fundraiser for the MO horses. Please seriously consider sponsoring a horse for one month or making a donation to the general fund.

I know everyone gets pulled in many directions, but we made a committment to these horses months ago and I hope some of you will be able to "step up to the plate" for them once again.

It would be great if there were no need for a fundraiser - if they had all found their forever homes. Some have and for that we are grateful, but so many remain. If you can help, please see the thread on the discussion board.

Thanks,
Glenda Jo

Let's keep working. We have to protect the horses from going to Mexico - ASAP.

We can stop this disgusting brutality.

WHO IS CALLING AGRICULTURE (HOUSE) COMMITTEE!!!! MEMBERS?

WHO IS CALLING COMMERCE COMMITTEE ?????

WHO IS SENDING MAYOR PAULA BACON OF KAUFMAN FLOWERS WITH OUR FOND CONGRATS??????

Wow!! Great news from Washington on the Texas slaughter plants. But I've been to Laredo, to the border crossing, where trucks are lined up for hours to hauls goods back and forth. This is a horrible, horrible trip to a horrible ending. We must get the anti-slaughter bills passed.

I don't know about you folks, but I'm having a hard time remembering everything I have to do, so here is my list:

1)Letter to my Senators and Congressmen...this time I'm telling them about Fitch...
2)Calls to today's committee members - list reposted at 1:58 p.m.
3)Order postcards from Christian - see POSTCARD OFFER thread on forum
4)Send vet letter to my vets and friends' vets - http://www.horse-protection.org/pdf/vetsupport.pdf - ask them to sign and fax
5)Contact members of House Natural Resources committee regarding TOMORROW'S vote on HR249 - Wild Horse Act
6)Letter to Nancy Pelosi.....tell her about Fitch.

I think this can all be done in an hour (excluding my attempts to write a letter through tears while thinking of the sacrifice of Fitch). I hope those of you who have been thinking about acting but feel not quite sure of yourself (this included me for some time) will be brave enough to make a few phone calls, send a few letters, get a few postcards to use....for Fitch, for Apache, for Barbaro.

Good afternoon everyone. Getting ready to make my calls today. After learning how many MORE horses are being sent to Mexico to suffer an even worse death while Texas SHs are pending closing is enough to make me vomit. PLEASE EVERYONE-CALL WASHINGTON UNTIL THIS BILL PASSES!
LOVE-Marlene
Barbaro-still miss you every day....

NOW IS THE TIME TO STIKE...TRUST ME!!!!

WE CAN TURN ALL OF THE HORSE RESCUES INTO RETIREMENT AND REHABILITATION CENTERS IF WE
GET THIS BILL MOVING AND PASSED NOW!!!!

THE OPPONENTS OF THIS BILL JUST HAD THEIR LEGS
PULLED OUT FROM UNDER THEM...GET GOING NOW!

first im dealing with the sadness of Fitch, and now the tears are compounded because our newly elected officials dont have any clue to what is going on in this country
case in point. i called senator casey's office his people have no clue as to where he stands on horse slaughtering, and to make matters worse again a newly elected congressman who took the place of my friend curt weldon. Joe (the navy guy)has no clue as to what is going on either. needless to say im here at my desk in tears.

BUT at least the courts in Texas have woken up and will stop this madness.
thank you God

ann

########
Just wanted to say THANK YOU to the Justices on the full 5th Circuit US Court of Appeals for acting so quickly.

Seriously - I've been in and around the legal system all my adult professional life, and petitions for rehearing en banc are not necessarily acted on so fast. They could have sat on the Petition for months and months - costing more and more horse lives. This quick action on the petition is to be commended.

btw there still is one more legal avenue for the bad guys to try, a Petition for Certiorari filed in the US Supreme Court. These are rarely allowed, but could tie up more time, if the stay of the court order in Texas is continued pending action on the last gasp to the USSC. I would expect them to file the darn thing just to see if they can get more time. If they do, do not be discouraged.

Now go make/finish those calls - not only for Barbaro, but for Fitch. What a sad story. But even he has not died in vain, for the publicity against animal cruelty this will ultimately engender, will help us all.

Somebody should contact America's Most Wanted about that story. Anybody volunteer, or is it gonna be me? Actually, I think lots of us should send AMW the story. I'll go get their link and post in a bit. CJ

ALL GOOD IDEAS ALL GOOD IDEAS....JUST REMEMBER...
POWER IN NUMBERS...WE NEED TO STRIKE WHILE THE IRON IS HOT...AND THE COMMITTEES NEED TO HEAR
THE CRACKLE OF OUR CAMPFIRE!!!!

Oops...told you I needed a list...7) Letter to Dekalb Sanitary District re: Cavel - see thread URGENT - Letters re:Cavel Needed

####
Kathy in Colorado:
Go to the Discussion Board, Anti-Slaughter, Urgent: Need Letters - Re: Cavel
There are a few "models" you can use. And make sure at the end of your letter you put your state. We have to let them know this is a national issue!
Thanks,
Daryl

GREAT COMMMENTS EVERYONE....JUST REMEMBER...
THIS BILL IS OUR NUMBER ONE GOAL AT THIS MOMENT...
THIS IS THE BREAK WE NEEDED...LET US SET THEM BACK ON THEIR HEELS...THE AG PEOPLE MUST BE REELING!

MRS JACKSON WILL BE THRILLED BY OUR FAST ACTION!!!!

PAMIE JUST CALLED ME WITH THIS WONDERFUL NEWS. I'M AT WORK AND CAN'T READ THROUGH ALL THE POSTS BUT SHE IS RIGHT....NOW IS THE TIME TO STRIKE WHILE THE NEWS IS IN THE HEADLINES. OUR HORSES WON'T BE PROTECTED FROM TRANSPORT TO MEXICO AND CANADA UNTIL THESE BILLS ARE PASSED.

I'S SO THRILLED THAT I FEEL LIKE I'M GOING TO BURST FROM THE NEWS THAT THESE TWO SLAUGHTER HOUSES ARE NOW OUT OF BUSINESS.

BUT, AS YOU ALREADY KNOW, OUR WORK IS NOT DONE....NOT UNTIL THESE BILLS ARE PASSED.

WE WON THIS BATTLE....NOW WE MUST WIN THE WAR!!!

HOORAY!!!!!!

I AM TOTALLY SURE YOU WILL ALL BE POLITE...

Hi>>>IAM CALLING TO SUPPORT...OH AND BTW...DON"T YOU THINK IT IS TIME TO GET ON THE WINNING SIDE?
WE WOULD LOVE YOU TO JOIN US!!!!

So sorry to read that Fitch passed away. Barbaro is now caring for him. Fitch is restored and can run free. Love and prayers for everyone. Great news out of Texas - hope it continues!

NOW IS THE TIME TO STIKE...TRUST ME!!!!

WE CAN TURN ALL OF THE HORSE RESCUES INTO RETIREMENT AND REHABILITATION CENTERS IF WE
GET THIS BILL MOVING AND PASSED NOW!!!!

THE OPPONENTS OF THIS BILL JUST HAD THEIR LEGS
PULLED OUT FROM UNDER THEM...GET GOING NOW!

Posted by: Pamela at March 6, 2007 7:02 PM

>>>

You are so right Pamela, This ruling has given me new reason to call the Reps. I am now urging all REPS to please honor this Ruling and tie up these lose ends and BAN THE TRANSPORT.

Illinois will now be the lone " Dirty Secret " I want to ask them how they feel about that, Don't you???

We have just gotten HUGE news! Lets keep the ball rolling!!

SO TRUE LOVEYOUB...JUST THINK OF THE TENS OF THOUSANDS WE WILL SAVE WITH PASSAGE OF THIS BILL>>>>>>>

OUR PALS IN HEAVEN ARE SMILING....BIG TIME...BUT URGING US ON...GET GOING NOW!

###

Candles and Prayers are needed for "Ernie" the emaciated colt at Horse feathers rescue.

Please see this thread for the story :
Horse Feathers Colt

Candle Group:
Ernie

###Alex,
Jason Shandler has written a powerful piece, thank you for the link.

Judy

Just received my Bloodhorse issue - great quote -
"Barbaro's Legacy" - Barbaro's time on earth was fleeting, the equine community should use his demise as a catalyst to raise awareness to help save and care for others."

Heartbreaking about Fitch, I looked at the pictures of him for the first time today so I could remember his sweet, brave little face. Thankfully he had a few months of love, he is with Barbaro and God now and we must keep working to get the horror houses shut down.

Sent a letter to Dawn, she is doing a great job.

Called and faxed everyone on the list today, saw the great news from Texas, even more urgent we get the bill passed to keep our horses from going to Mexico. I went to a seminar last week and spoke to the Mexico Tourist Board rep, she was shocked and said it can't be true what they do to horses at the Mexican slaughter houses and she wanted me to email her the information from the HSUS. Tourism is their only industry and pays everyone's salaries.

Email for Mexico Tourist Board - contact@visitmexico.com

Steph in CA - glad to see Jason's article, thanks for your hard work!

Barb m in Florida

##

Amazing news! Yes, strike while the iron is hot. We need to get this law passed so horses cannot be shipped to Mexico/Canada.

Let's save all horses.

Phewwww
Had an office meeting which took up my morning but I finally got my calls done for the day. Doesn't take long at all. Just telling em I support HR 503 or S 311 (whichever applies) and would like to see them co-sponsor if they haven't already done so. It so easy and fast. At night from home I send em a FAX.
We'll win with numbers folks.....tell everyone you've enlisted about Texas and tell them how important it is now to step up the pace and stop the transport.

JUST SENT THIS TO ENTIRE AG COMMITTEE---ALL OF THE MEMBERS

Today, the Federal Appeals Court flatly turned down the Texas Slaughter Houses Appeal to stay open...

Now is the time to join us...Come be on the winning side...we would love to have you.

The writing is on the wall...and I know that you want to help end this practice.

Please, call me at 904-xxx-xxxx

Sincerely,

Pamela S Hutchins

Fans of Barbaro
(A group named and started by MRS GRETCHEN JACKSON, owner of BARBARO)

phutc7274@bellsouth.net

Here's another one not to forget about - WILD HORSE PROTECTION ACT

(Can't remember if I posted this here before, excuse me if repetitious; but this is urgent now because there's a Committee vote on it tomorrow.)

On Wednesday, March 7, a federal bill (H.R. 249) to restore protections for wild horses from commercial sale and slaughter will be brought up for a vote in the House Natural Resources
Committee. Please go to this link to take action NOW.

https://community.hsus.org/campaign/2007_wild_horse_act/b886bi4fwt6kd

Shelley A - Debra - Friar Tuck - anyone - do we have list of members of the committee? The action alert only takes us to our own legislators. We need to target members of the House Natural Resources Committee TODAY, right???

OOOOOO BARB...GOOD ONE...TELL HER SHE MAY SEE THE VIDEO OF HOW THEY SLAUGHTER OUR HORSES IN MEXICO AT THE HSUS SITE...

BUT FOR US...I STRONGLY ADVISE YOU NOT TO SEE IT...IT IS WORSE THAN WHAT THEY DO HERE..BY FAR!!

Just an FYI,
As I was sending my faxes to today's list, both Senators Nelson and Rockefeller's fax numbers were busy, SEVERAL times. Hoping those were our Faxes coming.

Ro & Brady

Ro & Brady,

Just got a busy signal at Senator Nelson's fax number. Way to go, FOB's!!

####
My new favorite horse, the American Bashkir Curly - on my horse calendar for March! Anyone have any experience with this breed?

Carol
San Diego

####
Cathy...you are so right...MEXICO MORE BRUTAL...TRANSPORT HAS TO BE STOPPED ON ITS HEELS.

TALKING TO ME...PASSIVE DOES NOT WIN...NOTHING BUT ACTION.

CONGRATULATIONS FOBS...BARBARO AND MRS. JACKSON AND ALL OF US...PROUD...NOW STOP MEXICO...

YEA!!! Let's send cheers up for the US Appeals Court, 5 th Circuit!!!!

Matt, you are so wonderful to have posted that great news. It balances some of the other news of late.

Shirley
California

We're clogging the FAX machines....way to go FOBs. Just keep trying they receive 24/7. That's why I FAX at night. Keep on slammin em.

JUST GOT A MESSAGE FROM OUR FRIENDS IN HEAVEN...

THEY WANT ME TO ASK AGAIN...WHO IS SENDING THE
FLOWERS TO MAYOR PAULA BACON OF KAUFMAN...THEY
ARE REMINDING ME OF HOW MUCH SHE PUT HER POOTOTIE
ON THE LINE FOR THEM.....?

ENOUGH ALREADY>>>I AM TYPING AS FAST AS I CAN...LOL

does the closing of the texas sh mean that they are really closed - nothing can happen from here on out - if there are horses still there, are they rescued?

Members of the
Committee on Natural Resources
U.S. House of Representatives
110th Congress
1329 Longworth House Office Building
(202) 225-6065 Fax: (202) 225-1931

MR. NICK J. RAHALL, II, West Virginia, Chairman
MR. DON YOUNG, Alaska, Ranking Republican Member

(Ratio 27-22)

Dale E. Kildee, Michigan
Eni F.H. Faleomavaega, American Samoa
Neil Abercrombie, Hawaii
Solomon P. Ortiz, Texas
Frank Pallone, Jr., New Jersey
Donna M. Christensen, Virgin Islands
Grace F. Napolitano, California
Rush D. Holt, New Jersey
Raúl M. Grijalva, Arizona
Madeleine Z. Bordallo, Guam
Jim Costa, California
Dan Boren, Oklahoma
John P. Sarbanes, Maryland
George Miller, California
Edward J. Markey, Massachusetts
Peter A. DeFazio, Oregon
Maurice D. Hinchey, New York
Patrick J. Kennedy, Rhode Island
Ron Kind, Wisconsin
Lois Capps, California
Jay Inslee, Washington
Mark Udall, Colorado
Joe Baca, California
Hilda L. Solis, California
Stephanie Herseth, South Dakota
Heath Shuler, North Carolina
Jim Saxton, New Jersey
Elton Gallegly, California
John J. Duncan, Jr., Tennessee
Wayne T. Gilchrest, Maryland
Ken Calvert, California
Chris Cannon, Utah
Thomas G. Tancredo, Colorado
Jeff Flake, Arizona
Rick Renzi, Arizona
Stevan Pearce, New Mexico
Henry E. Brown, Jr., South Carolina
Luis G. Fortuño, Puerto Rico
Cathy McMorris Rodgers, Washington
Bobby Jindal, Louisiana
Louie Gohmert, Texas
Tom Cole, Oklahoma
Rob Bishop, Utah
Bill Shuster, Pennsylvania
Dean Heller, Nevada
Bill Sali, Idaho
Doug Lamborn, Colorado

Sorry I didn't find the phone numbers, will keep checking.

Great news in Texas! I feel that this is a kind of payback for Fitch, in a way.

When I did my calls, I got 3 offices all busy, had to call back. Hope everyone was burning up the lines!

I posted my comment on Jason's article. Bravo, Jason, great job!

Matt:

Thank you for your extensive research and posting!

Barbaro, you continue to amaze us with your strength and force. It is becaue of you that we have become so united.

Barbaro - Heart of a champion and 2006 Kentucky Derby Winner! We love you.

####
Kathy in Colorado, Excellent Question. I am wonder the same thing myself. Anyone out there who knows the answer?

I am sending flowers to Major Paula Bacon of Kaufman - as soon as I finish my phone calls. Let's fill up her office.

Joe the Horse:

How are you doing today?

not only do I need lists....I can't type...meant to say Mayor Bacon.....

HEY..CHECK THIS OUT...I HAVE CALLED THREE TIMES AND CAN GET NO ONE!!!! AN LOOK WHO SIGNED THIS....

Your email has been received at the electronic mailbox of the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture.

Email provides a quick and informal means for the House Agriculture Committee to receive messages concerning America's farmers and ranchers, as well as information that may assist our Members in making tough decisions affecting America's agricultural prosperity.

However, if you have an inquiry about specific farm legislation or agricultural policy, placing a telephone call to the Committee provides the opportunity for us to more fully answer your questions. Agriculture Committee staff members may be reached Monday through Friday, between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Eastern Time at (202) 225-2171.

Formal requests to the Committee must be made in writing and addressed to:
U.S. House Committee on Agriculture
1301 Longworth Building
Washington, D.C. 20515-6001

The House Agriculture Committee's web site, http://agriculture.house.gov has information on Agriculture Committee Members and the work of the subcommittees, as well as news releases, a searchable agricultural glossary, and on-line transcripts of hearings.

We suggest that for matters concerning an individual loan disbursement, disaster payment, or any other circumstance involving a federal farm program, please contact your Congressional Representative or Senator.

Alternatively, you may want to contact the USDA by writing or calling:
United States Department of Agriculture
14th St. & Independence Ave., SW
Washington, DC 20250
(202) 720-3631

Thank you.
Bob Goodlatte, Chairman
U.S. House Committee on Agriculture

the house that alex built for barbaro the house that barbaro built for
his horse nation ,.those without voice..
thank you all for the fantastic job on
the vigil for fitch last night and this morning-
-i am thrilled i sent money and will send more to help save a new foal
in his honor-
the tragedy we all lived through the wee hours
..i will always remember fitch , his swollen eyes--and my eyes so
swollen from crying for him and his betrayal
and the rage seething will be channeled into creating a beautiful day
for fitch and his voice.
may his beautiful courage and fight to stay here be remembered forever..
know he is safe now and that will flash all over the world..
a direct sign from barbaro
if i ever saw a sign.
.JENNIFER WE ALL STAND FOR YOU.
.TODAY EVERY DAY
.HE IS SAFE FOREVER. BUT THE CRIMINALS WHO DID
THIS WILL NOT BE SAFE
THE REST OF THEIR SORRY LIVES.
.THE SLAUGHTER HOUSES MUST GO OFF OUR LAND
..THAT IS IT.
LOOK AT WHAT THEIR ENERGY BRINGS
IT ''INSPIRES'' IN HUMANS SUCH CRUELTY-
IF YOU COULD CALL THEM HUMAN?
..OUR CULTURE MADE THEM
SO WE MUST SOLVE THIS.
I WILL DEDICATE MY DAY TO ALL THE FANS OF BARBARO THAT DO AND DID THE
RIGHT THING.
.I AM SO PROUD OF ALL ON THIS FOB=BOARD
WHICH GOES BRING IT ALL BACK TO ALEX.
'THANK YOU ALEX
. IT HAS BEEN A HELL OF A NIGHT
NO SLEEP AND PURE RAGE
that he had to suffer and somehow i will dig deep and find love for
those criminals..
. SO I OUGHT TO BE ABLE TO MAKE SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL FOR FITCH TODAY..
THE NEWSPAPERS ,THE CONGRESS. ;LETS GO.
in the light
with broken heart,'once more,-it will be repaired by sun down..for
barbaro..for fitch--
martita

######
Skyler, Jen (or Jan; can't find now) - anyone asking about Blackie - she did just fine with the farrier yesterday. See my post at March 5, 2007 11:30 PM. Thanks for your interest and concern. CJ

KATHY...I THINK I RECALL THAT THEY HAD THIS OR THE SUPREME COURT...AND THEY WON'T WASTE THEIR TIME WITH IT...THERE HAVE BEEN TOO MANY RULINGS ON IT...THE LAW IS NOW OFFICIALLY CLEAR BY SEVERAL COURTS AND DOES NOT NEED ANY FURTHER REVIEW BY THEM....YAY!

Here is the address for anyone who wishes to send flowers to Mayor Paula Bacon

City of Kaufman
209 S. Washington
Kaufman, Texas

GO FOB'S GO..UNTIL THEY ARE SAFE...

REPOST

Good Morning FOB’s

We got a wonderful message yesterday from Congressman Whitfield. He is working very hard to make this legislation happen. We must help him and all the others that are working so hard for the future of our horses.
The call list is in from Habitat for Horses. Please call the following on TUESDAY MARCH 6

SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE, SCIENCE AND TRANSPORTATION (S 311)

-Senator Bill Nelson
Phone #: 202-224-5274
Fax #: 202-228-2183

-Senator Mark Pryor
Phone #: 202-224-2353
Fax #: 202-228-0908

-Senator John D. Rockefeller, IV
Phone #: 202-224-6472
Fax #: 202-224-7665

-Senator Gordon Smith
Phone #: 202-224-3753
Fax #: 202-228-3997

-Senator John Sununu
Phone #: 202-224-2841
Fax #: 202-228-4131

And please don’t forget to call your OWN representative and senators and urge them to co-sponsor.

Thanks and have a great day!!!

Shelley and Debra

Posted by: ShelleyA at March 6, 2007 1:58 PM

Linda M
You Rock
Thanks for posting the members of the Committee on Natural Resources where the Wild Horse & Burro Protection Act resides. If our wild horses aren't a natural resource worth protecting I don't know what is.

####
Help I am at work and can't scroll through everything - can someone tell me what happened in Texas?
I'll keep checking as much as i can
Love yas,
Joanne in NJ

#####dear harriette,
you can not leave a board..you juat dont write or post.
.the energy of mary s and her prayers are here in the pool
./.i,like you, respect folks who need to withdraw and heal themselves in
what ever way they need.
this is the time to fight iht all our hearts.
you can count on me.
i aint going anywhere but upwards
i loved what your shared, i began weeping all the more reading about
your story telling.
i do that too in the subways in the streets wherever and whenever i
hear barbaro..
bless yuo. i am in the circle for the long haul..
for barbaro and all that is noble and good about him and his heart.
love in the deep of this night ..praying on bent knees for fitch.and
maybe e buy the freedom of another foal ..for barbaro...
love ,in the light,oh yes.
martita

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever. Run with the angels, honey!
Love you forever, Lou Ann

To FITCH's CAREGIVERS: God Bless you for the love and care you gave to dearest Fitch. My heart hurts with your hearts today. I am so sorry . . . but you being with him makes a big difference. Thank you.

This cruelty by humans is incomprehensible. I can only hope that the judge who gets this case can issue the punishment this case deserves.

God Bless you, Fitch. I asked Barbaro to put his soft muzzle near you last night to comfort you and give you strength, and for St. Francis to be near you. I fully trust that Barbaro and St. Francis knew it was best for you to be with them in Heaven. Love you honey. You stay close to Barbaro and Lost In The Fog, they will show you the best places.

Peace and ((hugs)) to everyone.

Prayers to St. Gerard continue for CHUNKY, ROSIE, and all equine Mom's to be!

Love, Lou Ann in Pennsylvania

Remember when little Salvation was our poster boy last year. I'm thinking this years poster child needs to be Fitch. A flyer to FAX about the betrayal of slaughter. The lost innocense of a baby once saved only to be drug off in the night to face it once again.

Kathy/Colorado
Cal

Here is the status of the ruling:

First, it can still be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court. The S.Ct. is very unlikely to hear the appeal, but even the filing of an appeal would buy the slaughterhouses a little more time, so they may do this.

Second, once the decision becomes final at the trial court level, the decision ONLY MEANS that Texas prosecutors may shut the slaughterhouses down at that point. The slaughterhouses will not be shut down automaticallly.

More importantly, the last horses left standing will still be owned by the slaughterhouses; and I think it is VERY unlikely that the horses would be turned over to rescue facilities. If anything, they will probably be sold to slaughterhouses in Mexico. They are a commodity, with respect to the slaughterhouses, and the slaughterhouses will try to recoup their investment. Sorry if that sounds callous...slaughterhouses regard horses as livestock, obviously, and they will have no interest in moving the horses to safety.

JOANNE FRANK....THINGS ARE MOVING VERY QUICKLY...
I KNOW MY POSTS WERE AT 6:30 AND 6:33...AND ON...

ALL IN CAPS...HOPE THAT HELPS...

Cathy Potter - Thank you for the info re: calling the reps after hours. Will make my calls as soon as I get home! Sending more letters and e-mails also.
What great news about the Texas plants! We have to shut down Cavel and stop the transport. Let's not stop the momentum!
On a different note: Per my latest HSUS newsletter (https://community.hsus.org/humane/notice-description.tcl?newsletter_id=7639347), S 361, the Animal Fighting Prohibition Act, is up for vote on March 8. I am contacting Sen. Cornyn to ask for his support. Please let's make this happen for the innocent victims. Sorry about not blue linking!
To Karen in PA - I am so sorry for the loss of Clothilde. I know Felix and Boots have welcomed her and are showing her all the best kitty places to go. My prayers are with you.
Go FOBs!

I think Congressman Henry Waxman may have just co-sponsored!

He co-sponsored last session, but it's been like pulling teeth to get the D.C. staff to say what his position will be this session. Even today, the staff said they really couldn't say what he thought about the bill, even though I know he will be in favor of it! I finally gave up and called his local office. The aide looked it up and said he had co-sponsored, as of today.

So hopefully he will show up in a few days.

Anyway, the larger message is -- for your OWN legislators, of whom you ARE a constituent, you might consider contacting your local office if the D.C. office is hard to get a fix on. The local office may have more time and inclination to listen to your concerns, and to find out your legislator's position on the bill.

THIS IS THE TIME TO CALL

Please we need to make the calls and work at getting this Bill passed, not after the Bill has passed.

No names mentioned here, but there are a few politicians and people that will come aboard when they see the Bill will pass.

PLEASE TAKE THIS WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY for the politicians to hear our voices.

PLEASE CONTACT YOUR SENATORS AND REP - Do it for the horses, Jacksons, and BARBARO

110th Congress Leadership - CONTACT INFORMATION

Thank you for the article on horse slaughter Alex. It was very informative. I hope this law is passed this year. I live in Illinois and have contacted my Senators and will do anything in my power to try and shut Cavel Int. down!!!

###
Marilyn, CA
Thank you for the explanation re: status of the ruling

###
FsOB:
It's more about riding the momentum wave, which is why it's critical to keep the phones (faxes, e-mails, etc.) ringing off the hooks voicing public (translation: grass roots, not political) support for putting an end to horse slaughter.

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES - Co-Sponsors

SENATORS - Co-Sponsors

COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND COMMERCE - HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE - HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

The ONLY WAY to combat the pro-slaughter forces is by a massive show of public opposition to horse slaughter. Please ask everyone you know to become involved in this. I know you have asked in the past; ask again...Try to get at least a few more people to make the daily calls. It will make a huge difference if each of us can do this!

COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE, SCIENCE AND TRANSPORTATION - SENATE / COMMITTEE HOMEPAGE


COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE SCIENCE AND TRANSPORTATION - SENATE MEMBERS

####
Marilyn/CA, Your not being callous, just being factual. I really appreciate the information. Thank you.

OK GANG...I AM EXPECTING A CALL FROM HER HONOR, THE MAYOR OF KAUFMAN, PAULA BACON...SHE WILL BE CALLING ME BACK, BUT DO NOT HAVE A TIME...

BUT WE WILL BE HEARING FROM HER!!!!

WHAT DO YOU THINK, MARILYN...DO YOU THINK BOB GOODLATTE WILL CONTACT ME FURTHER? HAHAHAHAHA

It seems like whenever I check back in, something new and wonderful has happened.

Pamie - tell Her Honor we can support her, in whatever way she needs!!!

And whenever we have a new horse angel to grieve over, magnificent things happen.

This is all overwhelming.

JUST LOOKING AT ALL OF THE WONDERFUL NAMES WITH THE SPECTACULAR POSTS...GOD BLESS US EACH AND EVERYONE!

Alex,

Informative article by Jason Shandler! Thanks so much for posting it. Having read this, I can speak with more authourity when I make my D.C. calls.

Alex, you are such a good person.. Thanks for all that your do for us.

Shirley
California

Afternoon All!!

Hooray for TX!! God Bless the Mayor of Kaufman!! We are with you, making our calls!! Let's get this done!

I just got back from NBC (wish I had read the news before I went)... a couple of baskets for the donor horses and one for Real Quiet... who happens to have a birthday tomorrow! Happy Birthday champ! And I actualy had flowers to deliver to people!!

#### Daryl, got your info and I will be forwarding it on tomorrow... thank you. I will call you soon, need some ideas.

#### Pam, I can smell your fingers smokin' from here girl!!

Love to you all for everything you do!

WE BELIEVE!!

Rach at KF

After reading the message board, I went to pthr.org and made a monitary donation in honor of Fitch. You guys are heroes, along with Barbaro, Dr. Richarson, and the Jacksons.

OK, with the good comes the bad. The bad is the horses will now go to Mexico/Canada.
QUESTION: They will be moving horses in large numbers now, they will have to, to keep up since they have to travel farther.
Anyone who lives near the border of either of these countries, maybe you can answer this question.
Is there any way the police or other authorities can monitor the roads into these countries?
They will be moving horses in volume, most likely the double trailers, if the authorities could patrol the area, could they stop them, since it is illegal to transport horses in this manor?
This would be a way to stop some of the horses getting across the borders.
Anyone have any ideas on this. Right now we have to find away to stop them from crossing any way we can.

Verna

You tell Mayor Bacon....
C O N G R A T U L A T I O N S!!!!!

####
Pamie, THANK YOU for being here today. XOXO

Alex, thank you for the article and I see other are commenting just like I did. LETS MAKE OUR VOICES HEARD.

I am still devastated over losing Fitch. The fact that the Appeals Court has ruled against the slaughter houses in Texas somewhat mitigates the pain.

HEY....LOOKIT THIS...FROM HSUS WEBSITE...

"This is the end of the line for the horse slaughter industry in Texas," said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO for The HSUS. "The kill floors should be still and quiet in Texas if the owners of these foreign-owned plants obey the law."

*

"Only one slaughterhouse continues to operate in the United States, and it is time for Congress to step in and halt this grisly business once and for all," Pacelle added.

Yes, I received confirmation from D.C. -- Congressman Waxman has definitely co-sponsored!

The aide says that our strategy is correct -- we need LOTS AND LOTS OF CO-SPONSORS. Please keep working on your Senators and Reps, at the same time you are calling the daily five!

I have just talked to the assistant district attorney in charge of the Beltex case in Fort Worth. I asked about the ruling of the Fifth District Court of Appeals that Matt posted about earlier. She said that Beltex has 90 days from yesterday to appeal to the Supreme Court to hear the case. Of course, the Supreme Court may choose not to hear it. The is ball is now in their court again. I asked if Beltex was operating. She said they were slaughtering other animals, but not horses for human comsumption. I don't know if Dallas Crown in Kaufman has stopped or not.

Please everyone let's concentrate on Cavel in DeKalb, Il now. Write those emails to the DeKalb county board and DeKalb Sanitary District and put them on the spot just as Dayrl and Dawn have asked. Now if the time!

Good day Alex and FOBs.

Ken Z.-Such lovely words for sweet Fitch...may he rest in peace now. So heartbreaking.

Corrine-Your story about Dozer and Blaze really touched my heart. Having owned a few German Shepards in my life, I know exactly how you feel. They really capture your heart and never let go. I'm very glad you made the decision to get Blaze, and so is Dozer, who is with you always.

Karen, PA-So very sorry about your kitty Clotildhe. Our fur babies are so precious to us, and their loss is always enormous. Hold on to your memories...Clotildhe is with you forever.

A very well-written article by Jason Shandler. I have one question regarding Mr. Stenholm. Has he ever personally visited a slaughterhouse, as has Mr. Heyde? If not, maybe he should do so before making such outrageous claims, such as the entire process, from transport to slaughter, "is not that bad." I would like to know what HIS definition of inhumane is! How dare he say that horses "are not pets!" Who is he to claim that? I'm also tired of the whole "property rights" issue with these proponents of slaughter. There are animal cruelty laws in place all across this country. These laws very clearly define those actions which are illegal, in essence, telling animal owners what they "can or cannot" do to their pets. I don't really see the distinction here. Through these animal cruelty laws, we are told every day in this country what we are allowed or not allowed to do with "our property." If any one of us, as individual horse owners, were caught hitting our horses in the head with a tire iron or firing an air rifle at a horse's head, we would be prosecuted for animal cruelty, and rightly so! The employees in these slaughterhouses are doing those exact same things, but it's allowed because it falls under the guise of business. I would love to see Mr. Stenholm or any other proponent of slaughter stand up and support an individual for committing such a barbaric act upon their horse. It would never happen! Are you kidding me? They would be supporting animal cruelty and let's face it, they wouldn't want to do that and jeopardize their precious political standing, now would they? I know, they would say that that is an entirely different circumstance, but it really isn't. The employees at these slaughterhouses aren't highly trained individuals. We've seen the slaughterhouse vidoes! So on the one side, we have laws that say an average citizen cannot shoot or beat a horse about its head, but on the other hand, by continuing to allow slaughter, our government is saying that it's perfectably acceptable to do these very same things, as long as it is being done as a business transaction. This is pure hypocrisy!

I am very happy to say that I have contacted my representative and both of my senators, and they all support the ban on horse slaughter. They also all carry stellar voting records on animal rights and welfare issues. If they did not, I would not have voted for them...period.

Received my Commemorative Collector's issue of the Bloodhorse today. Opened the envelope, saw the close up photograph of Barbaro and immediately had to put it back in its envelope. I didn't want the tears that were streaming from my eyes to ruin it. I'll have to wait until I'm not so emotional, which means I might not be reading it for quite some time to come.

I see that Rosie is still Our Lady of Perpetual Pregnancy. Oh well, as long as she has a safe foaling and healthy baby is all that's important. Thank you Stephanie for keeping us updated.

Okay, I've rambled on long enough. Hope everyone is having a wonderful day.

Alex, try to stay warm. Thank you for everything that you do for us...and yes, it's your passion, not your job! We understand!

Barbaro, I love you...always have...always will. Take good care of little Fitch...he needs a loving friend, and you, sweet boy, are most certainly that.

The miracle of Barbaro continues...

So sorry to hear about little Fitch - was really praying that he would make it. My condolences to the folks who loved him.

I live in a border state. And Yes, most definitely, roads are monitored.

Here is a question for all - I need to see a picture of a fairly new double decker cattle trailer. Where I live, short cuts are taken, late at night, travelling south. Any help would be appreciated so I can get to work. Just a picture. Anyone?

##########
From America's Most Wanted website FAQs

http://www.amw.com/about_amw/faq.cfm/

How do I submit a case to AMW?

Cases to be profiled on AMW are carefully chosen from the hundreds of requests we receive every week. Due to the high volume of requests we often need to make tough decisions when it comes to choosing which cases to profile. We make every attempt to cover cases from all parts of the country and all type of crimes. Our ultimate goal is to give a voice to the maximum number of victims possible and help find missing children and bring fugitives to justice.

If you would like to have a case considered for the show, please send all facts to:

America's Most Wanted
PO Box Crime TV
Washington DC 20016

Please make sure to note whether there is a known fugitive charged with the crime, or whether the perpetrator is yet to be identified. If charges have been filed, please note the police agency that filed the charges. It is also helpful to let us know what photos and/or video are available of the victim and the fugitive.

NOTE: We are not able to return materials, so do not send original or irreplaceable photos, documents, etc. [end of quote from AMW site]

I seriously would like to see Fitch's case submitted to AMW; after all, with what we know about how animal abusers progress to people, one would think they would want to catch the culprits). Will suggest this to the people at Pure Thoughts rescue.

Hello (((FOB)))...I just finished making calls to the various Senators on today's list. I had a hard time because all I could think of was poor little Fitch but it also made me feel very determined at the same time.

(((Alex))) Our Knight in Shinning Armour. Thanks for all you do!!! Good luck with the computer!

***********************

ANY ROSIE UPDATES FOR THOSE OF US STUCK AT WORK???

***********************

((((BOBBY))) Miss you more than ever Champ.

Pat G
Proud Member
Fans of Barbaro

"...grief is the price you pay for love"... Gretchen Jackson

THIS IS A TOTAL TEAM EFFORT...I KNOW THAT BETTER THAN ANYONE...CAUSE I LOOK BACK AND MARVEL AT ALL
OF THE FOB'S POSTS AND EFFORTS...

EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU ARE MAKING THIS HAPPEN...
WE ARE FAMILY AND IT SURE AS H**L SHOWS!!!!

YYYIIIIIIIPPPPPPPEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!

Been out of the house most of the day and on the run; just checking in before heading out again. What fabulous news!

What a lousy day to be away from the computer.

Sandie, re your last post, paragraph one: AMEN!

Pammie, great work.

RE: slaughterhouse cert petition to the US Supremes: only a very small percentage of cases are picked to be heard by the Supremes. You never know what they'll elect to hear, but this is probably not going to make the cut.

The big issue now is convincing commerce that shutting down the domestic slaughterhouses is not enough and will not solve the problem.

CALLING ALL EASTERN MISSOURI/WESTERN ILLINOIS FOB's:

Would anyone like to pay a visit to the track and spread the message?

Get Out Tuesday: Thoroughly thoroughbreds at Fairmount
By Patrick Derfler
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
03/06/2007

TODAY

Thoroughly thoroughbreds

Fairmount Park Race Track's thoroughbred season is a welcome and certain sign that spring really is near. The season begins at 1 p.m. today and 7:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, continuing through Sept. 29 at the track, 9301 Collinsville Road, Collinsville. Admission is $2. For information, call 314-436-1516, 618-345-4300 or go to www.fairmountpark.com.

fingers phoning...Sen Clinton's phone busy all afternoon...but just got through there...those poor Aides. I want the drugs they give them in the morning to makes them so POLITE. Really. calling and calling.\
We just have to do this. This year. I just cannot take another year of it. Really....let people learn to love some other kind of damned meat...ok, ;let them be vegetarians...argh.
Pamela: I believe you must come from a long line of warriors goddesses: keep it up, girl.....

#######
Margie,
Have that pix for you. Cant get on the DB for some reason to post it. Can I email it to you. or you can email me at friesian64@yahoo.com and I will send it to you. Let me know when you email so I can go to email and send ASAP
Verna

PLEASE LET'S NOT WORRY ABOUT ANYTHING BUT GETTING THE BILLS PASSED.

NO reason to look for something negative, focus on the positive and use it as a WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY to show the politicians that all they need to do is pass the law BANNING TRANSPORTATION, that's all.

PLEASE consider those that are happy to see some GOOD NEWS for a change.

Goodnight Barbaro...

Looking in the heavens...watching for your bright star. Thank you, Barbaro..for watching over us and guiding us...we WILL NOT LET YOU DOWN. Run, painfree, sweet boy, run.

Goodnight Fans/Family Of Barbaro.

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

No passive action today...nothing but ACTIVE...Now let us stop the transportation of horses across the border...this is more brutal...but inch by inch the FOBS will see it through.

As always, thanks to everyone...
Please remember fax, call, email...remember everyone who needs a helping hand, the ones suffering, the spoken and unspoken requests, and the rescues.

Pray for our Fallen Angels, Fitch, Apache, and the lists goes on...and BARBARO...Remember all animals...and I pray God protects them from abuse.

We live in the House that Barbaro Built and we stand united as FAMILY...GOD BLESS.

Have a wonderful night.

###

Thanks Alex, good to see ya, Mary S..Martita..and Harriette..precious words...but EVERYONE YOU ARE SPECIAL.

Hello folks please keep calling your reps and the committee members. The momentum is swinging our way but we are not accross the finish line yet.

Also just wanted to say that I am so proud to be a part of this group.

Thanks Verna. I did find what I needed.

Unfortunately, Googling double decker cattle trailers IS synonymous with horse slaughter.

My stomach is very near my mouth right now.

Keep going.

Hi, FOB's!

Just got done with my part with communicating with our lawmakers. Wanted to get that finished before posting.

Pamie, SOOOOO glad to see you here. Girl, you amaze me. We finally got a piece of good news to galvanize us. Maybe the events of the last few weeks was to help us clear out any sadness, any negativity and recharge us. Amazing. Just amazing.

Its good to finally see light after so much darkness.

Now if it only would get WARM here in Chester County.

Healing, Love, Peace,
ONS,
Lyn Gilbert

###Joan Roya, good night, you too are special.

(((Barbaro)))

Judy

RUN WITH IT MARGIE....
Verna

#### Sandie--Excellent points in your post time-stamped 8:48. You're correct--total hypocrisy!

Alex and other FOB, you are miracle workers~~~

I have never been a politically active person, until you interested me in this anti-horse slaughter legislation.

A few minutes ago, I e-mailed a friend who is horse owner, told her about our group, forwarded the Jason Shandler article, and asked if she would like to join me in making phone calls.... I, the political inactivist, did this!!!

Give yourselves pats on the back, and continuous pats to Barbaro and Fitch **

Shirley,
California

Good Night all you Princes and Princesses.
Good Night all you Kings and Queens of Barbaroland.

Dear Hawty Creek, please keep your coat on. It's still winter.

Dear Rosie, have a wonderful and easy night.

Pam, Marilyn, Socorro (sp?), Verna, Marge, C. Jaffe, and so many of you that I can't get all the names--you are unbelievable, powerful, amazing beyond description!
God bless you and your fire; I pray that the people we have called respond.

Laurie H., prayers for your healing and comfort; sleep well tonight; so much good is happening now.

Sue M., Pittsburgh

Here's the deal.....we MUST find more people to make these calls along with us. We've talked about this a lot but here's what I do. I send info to my peeps at least once a week. Today is a great day to do it with the news from Texas. Then I ask them to forward through their address books and so on and so on. Similar to the chains. We need more voices folks....see what you can do.

#####
Socorro, so well said. We all need to stay focused.
And Rosie needs to have her baby.
Have a great evening to everyone.
Nancy in Va Beach:)

Thanks Socorro!

Let us bow down to the bringer of good news, in this case it looks like it was the United States Court of Appeals, 5th Circuit!

We know what our job is and WE CAN DO IT!!!!!!!!!!!

Bless all you wonderful people------simply amazing!

FOB'S
PLEASE KEEP PRESSURE ON ILLINOIS AS WELL.
We're hearing that all the calls and faxes are having great impact and may be turning things around. Please, please, keep pressure on Illinois as well.

ALL FOB WHO LIVE NEAR THE MEXICO/CANADA BORDER...CONTACT YOUR LOCAL AUTHORITIES OR WHO EVER IT TAKES AND HAVE THEM KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THOSE TRUCKS SO THEY CAN LEGALLY BE STOPPED... IT WILL SAVE SOME TILL THE BILL PASSES! C'MON WE NEED YOU NOW, LETS STOP THE TRUCKS FROM GETTING ACROSS THE BORDERS UNTIL THEY ARE STOPPED FOR GOOD.

I'M PROUD OF YOU ALL AND PROUD TO BE AN FOB.

THANK YOU GOD FOR THIS MIRACLE, AMEN

Verna

any Rosie updates - is the feedbag empty? Has Wilbur been in to inspect today?

##
Kathy, Rosie has been eating, peeing and all. lol. just a bit ago her and MIsty were having a girl's chat.

Rosie is at the moment rooting around in the straw..

Rosie update: She is just hanging around. No Wilbur sightings, and the Brigade has stayed largely out or the pen.

Ro & Brady

###
Picture of Rosie" I want some more food please"

Rosie Looking

RE: my post at 9:03 am

I meant convince Congress, not commerce

Another typo, yeesh

http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/horse/news/story?id=2781518

this is a very well written article on horse slaughter. I have emailed it to local congressman's assistant and others. It is on ESPN's website, under their horse racing section.

Did anyone ever think that if we follow the reasoning of this horrific industry, I guess it would be ok in this country if we slaughtered our dogs too, and sent their meat to Asia.

I received my Bloodhorse Barbaro issue today. I had thought I was past the gut-wrenching tears when seeing his beautiful face. I was wrong. I still can't quite believe he is gone. I miss him so much and I am so very grateful for this wonderful site so that I can keep up with others who, like me, will never forget the most magnificent being on this planet. My favorite quote about Barbaro - What A Beautiful Difference One Life Has Made.

Dear Jen,

I just contacted the Humane Society of the United States regarding the horrific crime against little Fitch. They will contact the proper authorities in South Carolina and hopefully, post a reward for the apprehension of these monsters. I directed them to the Pure Thoughts website where they can read about and view firsthand this unspeakable torture of our little boy.

Jeanne

####Glenda in NE PA

Thanks for the info on the bumper stickers :-)

### FOB's Just so you know, I sent the Valentines day Heaven page to a woman that knows the Jackson's and asked that she made sure that they recieved it. She sent me an email yesterday morning and she told me that the Jackson's did get it. So now they know the gift that they gave to Barbaro on Valentines day. It was a very nice email....

### Alex 1 degree???????? My Gosh how in the world can you stand that? And riding horses on a gallop as well? Man you are very special to be able to endure that. No wonder you can handle this site LOL!!!!!!!

Rosie.... What is going on? You gonna have that kid today OR are you waiting until April 29th?

Angel Barbaro

Blessings Nina J

Jeanne-Well done!

######

response to Robyn Hoffmann at March 6, 2007 1:52 AM - looking for documentation re the indefatigable Paula Bacon's anti-slaughter activities in Kaufman, Texas.

All I know about Mayor Bacon, is what is in my post about her, here and at Forum. I picked that info up from a post in one of the Yahoo Groups I belong to. I suggest you go to her website, contact her "people" and let them know of your intent; no doubt they would be happy to share from her scrapbook. Don't know what else to recommend for material, other than good old Google. Her website notes that she was born and raised in Kaufman TX - "local lady saves town" angle. One of the posters (Mike C?) asked if she were the former jockey. If so, that's add'l great human interest info. Best bet I think is just to contact her via her website.

I just checked the official Kaufman site, has her autobio & info written by her. She's 5th generation Kaufman, worked in the family lumbermill (founded 1896).

http://www.kaufmantx.org/government/mayor.html

I'll post her personal website (re-election) in a separate post asap - I've found that trying to post more than one URL in a comment holds it up.

**Martha

I actually had to put my Bloodhorse Barbaro issue down a couple of times before I finished reading the majority of it. It makes me wish I'd be seeing him running the Derby again in May....it sounds so surreal I know, but it's just so difficult for me....well, words just can't express my inner feelings....but yes, Barbaro is what makes life all worth living.

######
Robyn Hoffman - it's www.mayorpaulabacon.com I think if you nose around that site you'll find a way to email her/her people.

**On a Lighter Note**

Rosie seems to have a fan looking on....a Red Rooster or is that a Chicken? LOL

Cathy Potter-Yes, that's a very good idea. We should all be telling as many people as possible about horse slaughter so that they too can get involved. I started writing letters to everyone and anyone I thought would listen last summer, as well as forwarding petitions, all articles regarding HS, etc. to everyone in my address book and asking them to please forward that information on. Email is a fantastic tool to spread the word, and quickly! I know that some of my family and friends got involved and have spread the word. I even received a copy of an email from Sen. Barbara Boxer of California regarding her support on the ban...I live in Washington, but a very good friend lives in California. She got involved and contacted Sen. Boxer. So yes, definitely the more people we reach, the better our chances. When I speak to people about HS, I am still constantly surprised at the amount of people who STILL know nothing about it! Only one person I have spoken with wasn't against it...only one...and I have spoken with a lot of people. Let's just say my conversation with the "one," was very memorable...for him!

###

here is Rosie trying to talk to Misty, Rosie: "MISTY? Hey Misty!!, I need to talk to you since you are experienced. MISTY TURN AROUND!!"

Rosie trying to get Misty's attention

##
Good Night All have a safe and warm evening.

What great news today after all the sadness, you all have been doing so good. I hope to contribute to the halt of this here in Canada, you have been an inspiration.

Good night, Sweet Prince.

Laurie H. You are in my prayers, keep healing.

Judy

OH MY GOSH! Such great news!!! Now we gotta stop these horses from going to Mexico. They are HORRIBLE in treating horses and a lot of other animals too I might add. They do the horrid bull fighting over there, and alot of other animal fighting!!

I bought a fax machine for home today for Barbaro...and for all the horses we MUST save. I was amazed at how inexpensive it was. And it works perfect and I sent faxes and tomorrow I will send more and so on until this slaughter ends.

Check out the little fax machines. Mine is by Brother, very small and compact and easy to use.

Pam

Just heard the news about the Texas decision! Does this really mean those stinking slaughterhouses will have to close? I suppose they'll have to enforce it.

But how wonderful a day this is!

Jake

Hola Barbaro Nation,

It has been a bittersweet day. We mourn Fitch as we celebrate getting closer to ending HS in the US. I cannot state too often how inspired I am by the passion and the goodness that exists here. If I had the bandwith I would type every name in gratitude.

I will soon hop in the car to battle Atlanta gridlock and my drive will be sweeter thanks to your words, prayers, actions and human decency.

See y'all tonight for another episode of : Rosie
and the heiney watchers.

FOBs***ALERT***

Jen from Pure Thoughts Rescue just sent an e-mail distribution to anyone who contributed towards Fitch. The staff is planning a burial at 5pm there time. Fitch will have his own special blanket accompanied by flowers, in what appears to be a small farewell service (I assume somewhere on or in proximity to the facility itself).

A MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR FITCH TONIGHT at 7pm for those of us FOBs, and please also light a candle for Fitch so that we all may remember Fitch in the comforts of Big B, over the Rainbow Bridge.

Ken Z

###
Ken, Thanks for sharing. 7:00 it is. I'll be there.

I just received the following response fron Senator Schumer. Needless to say, I will contact him once again!

Thank you for your letter regarding S. 311, the Horse Slaughter Prevention Act. You will be happy to know that I co-sponsored this bill during the 109th Congress. Unfortunately, it was not brought to the Senate floor for a vote before Congress adjourned last December. I will keep your comments in mind on this issue.

Throughout my legislative career I have maintained a strong commitment to protecting the rights of animals. I am a co-sponsor of S. 304, the Sportsmanship in Hunting Act which amends the federal criminal code to prohibit knowingly transferring, transporting, or possessing a confined exotic animal for purposes of allowing the killing or injuring of that animal for entertainment or the collection of a trophy.

I was also proud to support the passage of P.L. 106-152, a law banning the interstate trade in "crush videos." Under this law, it is illegal to engage in the interstate commercial distribution of materials depicting animal cruelty, specifically the crushing of small animals by women wearing high-heeled shoes.

In recognition of my efforts on behalf animal rights, last year the Humane Society of the United States awarded my voting record on animal welfare legislation a score of 100%. Although I am proud of the accomplishments made on behalf of animal rights so far, I am aware that there are still many animal welfare issues remaining to be addressed. Rest assured that I remain strongly committed to protecting animal rights.

Again, thank you for contacting me. If my office can be of any assistance to you in the future, please do not hesitate to contact me again.

Sincerely,

Charles E. Schumer
United States Senator

###
Ken-Absolutely. Fitch is in my thoughts and prayers, and I'll be sure to light a few candles for him as well.

I just heard about Fitch. Poor sweetheart, but now you are running in field with Barbaro.

Rest in Peace, Little one.

###
Cathy Potter - You'll need to tell me what the BLM is allegedly doing? Not familiar. Last I knew they had an extensive adoption procedure and individuals adopting horses signed an agreement stating they would not be sold to slaughter.

### Marky, Glenda, Cathy, Susan E, Sarah and all you other late night cooks - I suggest we just email privately to each other. Entertaining us & respecting Alex's wishes. I am a technofobe (sp?). The email I can see immediately while I am on line is: shop@exquisite-equestrian.com.

Excellent news about TX slaughterhouses today,
however only legislation will prevent American horses from going to Canada or Mexico.

******* POSTCARD UPDATE *******

Hi everyone-

Happy to report that we have orders for 400 cards so far... The minimum order to go to print is 500, so we are well on our way. The more cards we order, the lower the per card price:

500 printed - .18 each
2500 printed - .03 each

Will take orders for a week or so, and then contact everyone with final prices and shipping info.

See POSTCARD OFFER thread in anti slaughter folder
on the forum for details or email antislaughterlobby@earthlink.net with card requests or questions.

Thanks!

###
Pam-
I have a home fax machine and have been using it for faxing letters too! Isn't it great? You're right...some are inexpensive. It's money well spent, especially at a time like this when faxing letters is as important as calling, emailing, etc. You go girl...fax away!

FOBs***ALERT***

Jen from Pure Thoughts Rescue just sent an e-mail distribution to anyone who contributed towards Fitch. The staff is planning a burial at 5pm there time. Fitch will have his own special blanket accompanied by flowers, in what appears to be a small farewell service (I assume somewhere on or in proximity to the facility itself).

A MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR FITCH TONIGHT at 7pm for those of us FOBs, and please also light a candle for Fitch so that we all may remember Fitch in the comforts of Big B, over the Rainbow Bridge.

Ken Z

Rest in peace my little Fitch. You will not be forgotten. Barbaro (and Ranger) are there with you and will take good care of you. God speed Fitch. We love you.

Ken, Aren't they in South Carolina? That would be 3pm MST - did we already miss it?

Lynz
The BLM utilizes helicoptors for rounding up the wild herds. To the best of my knowledge it has been documented that they will drive the horses of cliffs to their deaths. Not all of the wild horses are adopted out....sadly, many go to slaughter. The BLM is NOT protecting our wild herds. In my opinion they would like nothing better than to drive them to extinction.

MARGIE -- You ask, we surf. Here are links two images of new looking double deck cattle trailers. Hope this helps our Eyes in the Lone Star State!


Double Deck Cattle Trailer Image


Double Deck Trailer 2

Candles for sweet little Fitch. RIP, dear one, and enjoy the gang on high!


Candles for Fitch

**Lynz

I assumed they meant 5pm their time, the e-mail wasn't specific at to time zone.

Rest in peace now, sweet Fitch. You have finally found your forever home, where you will always be surrounded by love, comfort, and serenity. We will never forget you...we will always love you and hold you in our hearts. You're free now. Let your gentle spirit soar........

**Lynz

P.S. I received the e-mail from them only at 5:10pm, so it is very possible it already took place...but irregardless I thought the candle lighting at 7pm EDT would allow us to pay our respects for Fitch.

###
Sandie,

Well spoken for little Fitch :)

Cathy - just to clear up some myths:

Yes they use helicopters - the range is too great to do anything else. No they do not drive them off cliffs. The pilots are accompanied by the wild horse staff - all know the terrain very well. There is an APHIS (Department of Ag) Vet on site at all gathers. If a horse dies during the gathering process the veterinarian must determine what the cause of death was and the BLM must make necessary changes to prevent a repeat occurance. (They must also file multiple reports, etc.)

Not all are adopted out - the ones that aren't are sent to horse sanctuaries where the government pays roughly $1.00 per day per horse for the horses to live out their lives at the sancutary. Currently there are sanctuaries in Kansas, Texas, and Oklahoma. Legally a horse can not be sent ANYWHERE for commercial use or slaughter. An example of commercial use would be a dude ranch or a pack string...the slaughter part we all know. If the staff sent a horse somewhere they shouldn't it would be a direct violation of law and they would likely lose their job and be subject to criminal prosecution.

If the BLM adopts a horse out and they reserve the right to go inspect the horse at any time. I have known cases where they had adopted out a horse and then went back and seized it because they were unhappy with the situation.

Many of the BLM horse programs choose to leave stallions in the active herds that are colored (pinto) or have lots of white - this increases the color on the foals and makes them more appealing for adoption.

If you want the specific laws (Federal Code, etc) outlining the procedures let me know...I'll post them tomorrow night.

Ken Z, 7pm EST - got it. Thanks

***FOBs

Just a Reminder:

CANDLELIGHTING FOR FITCH AT 7PM, IN 10 MINUTES!!

Good Night Alex...thanks for everything you do for us.

Goodnight Bobbycakes...run with Fitch and Candy Stripes tonight! I love you Champ!!!
Nite FOB'S
Going over to candles now...see you all tomorrow!

###
Thank you Ken Z. Off to light candles for Fitch...bless his sweet little soul.

While you are all lighting candles for Fitch, please stop to lite one or two for our Barbaro...he is such an inspiration to us all.
I am so grateful for the journey he is leading me on.

####

Hey guys...just to let you know...I got so fired
up today, that I exhausted myself and fell asleep
on the floor! ahahahahhaa..well, it was certainly
worth it for sure!!!!

THANKS TO EVERYONE FOR WORKING SO HARD...YOU GUYS ARE THE BEST....ps...I heard Equine Heaven had
a really wonderful piece on FITCH...

My Dear Barbaro Nation Family ...

Today has been a very bittersweet day for all of us ...

I have not read any posts at all yet, so please indulge and forgive ...

The very first email I read was from a good friend and FOB about the passing of Fitch ... I cried my eyes out and felt that same stabbing pain that I felt on January 29 ... we all know.

A little later in the day I got the wonderful news that the Federal Court of Appeals "AFFIRMED" the ruling declaring Horse Slaughter Illegal in TX. And right then and there it all became so clear to me ... and I started to be grateful again.

Little Fitch was a 7 month old colt on Earth, but he was a very old soul, just like Barbaro. He knew that his mission would be brief but powerfully important. And it was. Just think of this:

On the very date that Court of Appeals upheld the ruling that slaughter was illegal in TX ... on that very date, at 11:55PM Fitch crossed over to Rainbow Bridge. His work was completed and the renunciation of his life was rewarded so that other horses may live. Absolutely no coincidence whatsoever ... it was meant to be and that soothes my pain over the loss of Fitch. I cried and cried today but this was my "saving grace."

When I read the post from Barbaro welcoming Fitch to Equine Heaven, I lost it completely ... but I was gratified knowing that he did not live his short baby life in vain ... horses WILL BE SAVED!!
######################################

Thanks to a wonderful angel FOB, Michelle, I have the figures from February's laminitis contributions to UPenn ... our $29 for the 29th in honor of Barbaro.

CONGRATULATIONS, FOBS .... we donated a total of $754 at the end of February .... 22 people donated $29 and 4 people donated $20 each. I am so happy and so gratified to know this ... but we can do better ... a LOT better!! We were $246 short of our monthly goal of $1,000 so we must do much better in March ... AND WE WILL!! AND I THANK YOU ALL ...
######################

Finally ... my bags are packed ... and I'm ready to go, and I will see you all at DelPark next month. I am so excited. I need to be with Barbaro Nation to celebrate our dearest Barbaro's life .... I can't wait to meet and hug and thank each and every one of you!!!
################

And now I need to light candles for Fitch ....
########################

####

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

Our boy B was there to meet him...

Sandie and All FOB's -
It's bad enough missing Barbaro so much, but losing sweet Fitch really put me over the edge this morning and I thought I've got to something more. The fax machine is great and definitely a great investment for our horses' lives.

I received the beautiful Blood-Horse magazine on Barbaro yesterday, and it's hard to really look at it yet. I've gotten through the introduction so far, skimmed through and had to put it down. I miss him so much.

I'll just keep faxing...

Hello, Can anyone tell me if the horse, named Candy Stripes, who recently passed away, had any family members named Candy Spots? I remember a racehorse with that name in the 1960s. Many moons ago, when I was a kid(who happened to like watching the big races on t.v.) Thank you. And sorry to hear about Candy Stripes.

Hello Fitch,

You might be wondering where you are right now. You are safe, protected and complete. You are with me and the others of our kind who have a special job to do.

You see, some times people lose the knowledge they were born with. That all of us carry the light of the Divine Spirit inside us. It is because their own spirit is dark and heavy that they wander away from the traditional ways. Our job, yours and mine, is to remind eveyone that beauty walks with the littlest ones, the forgotten ones like you, just like it does with me. Little Fitch, your young spirit has always walked in beauty, and your beauty has found its way home.

Walk beside me, little Fitch. Feel the strength of a great Thoroughbred beside you. Stretch out your gait and together, with our brothers and sisters here and back home, we will win this race, the race for the people's hearts, just like every race I ever ran. Compared to the mud my first time out on the dirt, this race is a sheer delight.


Fitch, when you walk together with me you will remember that the love humans have for the horse is without limits. Carry your head proud, little one. Join me in the most important race of all. The race to bring beauty and compassion, divine love for all horses to every human heart on earth.


While we walk together this day, the day we welcome you home, let's nicker a special, sweet song to your people, a secret song we horses sing for the special ones, the horse angels who care for you and the forgotten ones. Ah, there it is, your song, the sweetest melody. I can hear it winging its way right to their hearts. Shhhh.... let them rest now, we can bring them more songs tomorrow.


Welcome home, brother. We believe.


Love, Barbaro

###

Testing!

Becky L
You just brought back memories. I was very young in the 60's and remember Candy Spots. He was owned by Rex Ellsworth I believe and won a lot of races. Since I'm from Southern California I remember him running at Hollywood Park and Santa Anita. Do you remember Olden Times too?

Lynz
Thanks for the info on the BLM. I'm going to research this further. Last November I think, Vanity Fair had an article about the wild horse roundups and what was reported was not pretty.
To be continued.....

Cathy, Thank you for the info on ol' Candy Spots.Growing up in Indiana at the time,I could only watch the races on t.v. Mainly, the Kentucky Derby, etc. But in my later years, I lived in Southern California,too, and got to enjoy the live races for 10 of those years. Del Mar,mostly. Now I am back in Indiana. Sure miss it out there. Take care! P.S. This is a great website. Very nice of Alex to keep updates on dear, now angel, Barbaro.

CATHY...I recently made a H/S video in which I deliberately omitted the pictures of MANY dead and maimed horses from these roundups...here is some additional info...

Since 1971, wild horses and burros have been federally protected by the Wild Free-Roaming Horse and Burro Protection Act, a pitched battle piece of legislation won in 1971 by Velma Johnston, aka Wild Horse Annie. (Wild Horse Annie was an intrepid Nevada character who, after seeing blood spilling out of a truck that was hauling mustangs to the slaughterhouse, campaigned for the act.) Legend had it that, apart from the war in Vietnam, Congress received more mail about protecting wild horses than about any other issue in its history.

Now the trucks that caught Wild Horse Annie's attention may be revving their engines again, thanks to a stealth rider attached in November to a federal spending bill. The new law, pushed by ranching interests, Western senators, and Bush's Department of the Interior, probably condemns thousands of wild horses to the slaughterhouse—where they're likely to be made into dinner for Europeans.

Wild horses were indigenous to North America, populating this continent before the Ice Age. They moved north across the Bering land bridge, fanned out from Siberia to the rest of Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, then became extinct here. When Europeans reintroduced horses to the Americas in the 16th century, some escaped and formed wild herds. By 1900, there were 2 million wild horses in America. Their major predators, such as the mountain lion, were all but wiped out, and for more than a century their biggest enemy has been man. Horse roundups and massacres went unchecked for decades until Wild Horse Annie came along.

In 1971, when the act was passed and signed by Richard Nixon, perhaps 50,000 horses remained, according to the Bureau of Land Management, the Department of Interior agency in charge of them. It's hard to count horses, but today, according to the BLM, there are 36,000 on public lands. Wild horse advocates dispute that number and say there are no more than 20,000 still roaming the range. Everyone agrees that the numbers are dwindling and most of the horses are in Nevada, which is where the wild mustang is making its last stand. (The state gives the mustang props everywhere—brothels name themselves after it, downtown Vegas features wild horse statues, its picture hangs in every dive bar in the desert—but in real life, it gets no respect.)

Today's fight over wild horses is a strange battle, in which cattlemen and ranchers—the traditional enemies of the wild horse—have inadvertently teamed up with environmental groups, which generally regard wild horses as an invasive, non-native species. Along with the oil and gas lobbies, the ranching industry largely determines BLM policy toward public lands, which is where wild horses and burros roam. Many ranchers who lease grazing land from the BLM for meager fees—a situation opponents call "welfare ranching"—see wild horses as pests that destroy the land and take food from cattle, although study after study indicates that cattle do more damage to the range than horses. Moreover, public lands west of the Mississippi, which is where most of the country's remaining wild horses live, supply just 3 percent of our beef.

Under a myriad of management schemes and subsequent legislation, the 1971 law meant to protect the horses has been gradually weakened in order to deal with what the BLM says are "excess" horses. The BLM established "herd management areas" and "appropriate management levels" aimed not, as the act mandated, at preserving wild horses but removing more and more horses from the range. In 1971, there were 303 herd management areas; today there are 201. According to advocates who gathered recently for a conference in Carson City, Nev., the BLM has been grabbing small herds of horses in surprise sweeps. Periodically, the BLM enforces a policy of "zeroing out" horses, which means completely eliminating horses from a particular herd management area, thus opening it up to drilling and the introduction of more cattle.

Under Bush, slow-motion neglect has been replaced by a vigorous assault on mustangs. The BLM's wild horse removal policy has escalated ferociously. The "gathers," as the BLM calls them, are carried out by helicopter and are reminiscent of The Misfits, the Marilyn Monroe movie about the cruel mustang roundups outside Reno in the 1950s and '60s. Although helicopter roundups aren't as traumatic for the horses as the fixed-wing aircraft roundups depicted in The Misfits, horses can instinctively run themselves to the point of injury, if not death. I witnessed several roundups this summer and saw foals being trampled by frightened mares and stallions once they were inside cramped holding pens.

Horses that survive the roundups face a murky future in the BLM's cute-in-name-only adopt-a-horse program. For $125, you can buy a wild horse at one of the BLM's adoption events held periodically around the country. The BLM tries to make the adoption easy, providing information on mustang training clinics, and lately even in some states offering to drive the horse to you at no cost. Full ownership is not granted for one year, a period in which the BLM may make surprise inspection visits. The problem is that there are many more horses in BLM pipelines than there are adopters, yet the roundups continue. In 2004, almost 4,000 wild horses and burros were removed from Nevada public land. An additional 5,000 at the very least are slated to go this year; the goal is to cut the wild horse population in half by the end of 2005. Wild horse advocates fear that if the government even comes close to these figures, the herds that roam the range will no longer have the numbers to sustain themselves.

But the November rider represents the gravest threat yet to the remaining mustangs—and a triumph for the cattle industry. Many senators and representatives did not know that Montana Sen. Conrad Burns had attached the last-minute rider to the 2005 federal appropriations bill when they approved it before their Christmas break.

The rider probably spells doom for many of the 14,000 wild horses that languish in BLM facilities because they have not been adopted—and also endangers horses rounded up in the future. According to the new law, which took effect in January after Bush signed it in December, any horse that is older than 10 (not old for a horse) or has not been adopted after three tries through the poorly advertised adoption program can now be sold to the highest bidder. "Highest bidder" generally means middlemen who resell the horses to slaughterhouses. The demand for horse meat comes from Europe, Japan, and Mexico, and as fear of mad cow disease escalates everywhere, the appetite for it increases. This combination of increased roundups and sales to meat-packers will devastate the remaining herds.

A few legislators are fighting back. On Jan. 25, Rep. Nick Rahall of West Virginia, the ranking Democrat on the House Resources Committee (which oversees wild horse policy on federal lands), introduced a piece of legislation along with Republican Rep. Ed Whitfield of Kentucky to overturn the Burns rider. "Very few icons of the West remain," Rahall said, "and wild horses are certainly a symbol of the frontier era and our nation's spirit. To allow them to be slaughtered without exhausting all other options, such as adoption, is an affront to our history."

Even if the horses aren't immediately sold to slaughterhouses, they face another potentially disturbing fate. They may be bought by a prominent Montana rancher named Merle Edsall, who has planned for months to "repatriate" 10,000 wild horses to a "sanctuary" in Mexico. Edsall says he wants to build a wild horse tourist attraction, but once they move south of the border, it would be impossible to monitor what happens to them. Edsall may also have influenced the Burns rider. The language in the Burns rider was the exact same wording floated by Edsall at a meeting of the BLM's Wild Horse and Burro Advisory Board last February in Phoenix.

Many wild horse advocates are hoping that the Rahall/Whitfield legislation will win additional sponsors and will be enacted quickly in the current Congressional session. But public lands ranchers are a powerful interest group. If the Burns rider remains as law and is carried out, our cowboy President—recently characterized by Burns as "a man who earned his spurs"—may be remembered for eradicating the living symbol of the American West, the very horse he rode in on.

Lynz...Info about the Bill in the Committee of Natural Resources.

March 5th, 2007

This Wednesday, March 7th the House Natural Resources Committee will be voting on HR 249, a bill to reinstate the prohibition on the commercial sale and slaughter of America’s wild horses.

Introduced by US Representatives Nick Rahall and Ed Whitfield, HR 249 addresses the crisis created by the infamous “Burns rider”. In the fall of 2004, former Senator Conrad Burns added language to a massive appropriations bill that amended the 1971 Wild Free Roaming Horse and Burro Act, mandating that the BLM round up all “excess” wild horses and sell them to the highest bidder. All wild horses over the age of 10, or that have been unsuccessfully offered for adoption 3 times, were at risk of being slaughtered under the Burns legislation. Shortly after the passage of this legislation, 41 of America’s wild horses, removed from their home in the wild, were sold to slaughter. The Department of Interior responded quickly to the barrage of negative publicity, adding stricter language into their sales contract.

However, once these animals are privatized there is no guarantee as to their fate. Unscrupulous individuals can easily purchase wild horses for as little as $25 each and then funnel them through horse traders and middlemen where they will eventually end up in the auction feedlot. This is an unacceptable fate for such a beloved wildlife species. The American wild horse is cherished by all Americans as a symbol of freedom and part of our living history. Our nation was built on the backs of their ancestors. They deserve better.

Until legislation is passed that prohibits the sale and slaughter of wild horses they remain threatened. HR 249 restores the protections that our wild horses once had.

Lynz....found something interesting.

Round-Up Report: despite public protests, BLM went ahead with the Clark Mountain (CA), Spring Mountain (NV), and Adobe Town/Salt Wells (WY) round-ups, capturing a total of 1,100 horses and 704 burros. The Wyoming round-up took place despite serious concerns over the health of horses being run for miles in extreme weather conditions. For each round-up, the public and media were kept at a distance, unable to document the proceedings. In Nevada however, a film crew was able to capture footage of a baby burro being roped and dragged, and of another burro being kicked in the head by a wrangler.

Hundreds of sheep brought in after wild horses removed: a supporter contacted us to report that, after 200 horses were removed in December from the Dry Lake Complex in Nevada, he was shocked to see about 1,000 sheep trucked in to that very area, less than two weeks after the round-up. Questioned on the issue, BLM confirmed that the area includes a grazing allotment for 2,200 private sheep, whereas for horses the ?appropriate management level? is set at only 128 head, or one horse per 5,500 acres! What BLM failed to address is why substantially more forage is consistently allocated to private livestock on the very areas that should be ?devoted principally? to wild horses under the Wild Free-Roaming Horse and Burro Act.

Livestock grazing fees lowered yet again: in January, BLM announced that fees to graze private livestock on public lands would be lowered to $1.35 per animal unit month (less than 6 cents per acre per year!). When BLM eased public land grazing restrictions for private cattle in 2005, two retired government scientists denounced the decision as ?whitewash,? saying that their conclusions that the proposed new rules might adversely affect water quality and wildlife, were replaced with language justifying less stringent regulations favored by cattle ranchers.

Beautiful post from Susan in Saratoga.

Wonderful work by so many today...in memory of Fitch and so many others, and of course, Beloved Barbaro.

Susan in Saratoga ......... geesh .... would have been great IF you could have included - in your message from Barbaro ..... at the very beginning ...... "Tissue Alert !!!"
Thank you so much for the powerful message .....
from Barbaro to Fitch.

Sherry - Arizona

####

ooppss..Political disclaimer...I do not belong to the Republican or Democratic political party...
I am an Independant...Thought I should add that...LOL

Cathy,

check your email.

Susan in Saratoga-Simply lovely.

just got the rosie cam back--she's eating--no baby-oh well!!

###
Do we have any horse people that live in or near Edmond OK??

If so PLEASE email me at locarumo@gmail.com

I'm rooting for Birdbirdistheword for the Louisiana Derby. Sorry Circular Quay...

###
In reference to my last post, please see this thread on the forum, we also need some Candles and prayers for this colt..

http://forums.prospero.com/timwoolley/messages?msg=6083.1

lynz
I'm home now. Did you send it to my office?

lynz
I'm home now. Did you send it to my office?

The people who run the wild horse programs love the horses. They are as passionate about them as the public. It is unfair to generalize that high level policy makers speak for the folks on the ground.

The individual wrangler in Nevada - scum.

Your getting into another major lobby area - public range land grazing. Big big issue.

Bottom line is that Wild Horses ARE being sent to slaughter.

####
Becky L
No immediate relation...

####
Is Mike C in the house?

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

WOW ! We got a lot done here today. Thank you, all of you for having the compassion and DRIVE to GET IT DONE ! ! !

Sweet Barbaro & baby Fitch~ I know you don't want any tears over the fact that you crossed the Bridge & are in Equine Heaven. But my heart breaks that you both had to go too soon. Fitch, little one, you have probably forgiven those that did you harm. I can't be so forgiving; you didn't even get to see your first birthday and that is just not right. Little colt, I hope you knew that you WERE loved and that you will not be forgotten.. it wasn't all in vain, Fitch. I promise you. Barbaro, I know you are keeping Fitch close by your side and showing him around hevvin and letting him see how wonderful it is there. I am missing you more than ever, precious angel... the past two days have been painful & difficult but great strides have been made to protect your brothers & sisters. More will be done and it will be done in your honor, your name and in your memory. Hug Fitch close to you tonight & find the fluffiest cloud on which to drift off into a perfect slumber. I love you always.

What doe we know about these Lifelines Farms? With all the minis in auction at a kill situation in Iowa? Nothing comes up on them in Google....sorry, i just feel kind of cynical today....rsvp any into tonight please, thanks: blessings on all. Extra prayers for Fitch's people...HOW IS ABERCROMBIE???

jonna

WENDY; I can't go for that horse. He isn't in my Derby stable LOL. Gotta go for Circular. I also heard it through the grapevine (well, actually Rockportharbor.com) that Hard Spun is being shipped to Turfway Park for the Lanes End Stakes sometime at the end of March. He just does not like Oaklawn Park.

Cathy, camoves.com is the only one I have

Cathy,
Burns amendment notwithstanding:
My point is they are not being sent to slaughter by the BLM. My argument goes like this...

Joe Schmoe buys a horse from some fool who breeds his horses thinking he will sell the babies as trail horses. Joe has no ethics and a year later he sells the horse to the killers.

Joe Schmoe adopts a horse from the BLM and a year later he gets tired of the horse and sells the horse to the killers.

The backyard breeder shouldn't be breeding his horses. Joe Schmoe is scum. The BLM is trying to manage the horses by adopting them and is trying to prevent the horse being sent to slaughter by holding title for a year - what is the answer?

At last check there are over 1200 candles from 6 different countries for Fitch. If only he knew the impact he has and will have.

C'mon Lynda!! Bird Bird IS the word!!!!

Rosie is causing us all alot of frustration, particularly Stephanie because she isn't getting her sleep!! The good side of this is that we have $380 in the pool to predict the birth of her foal. GET INTO THE POOL HERE!!

LYNZ; I thought all that sounded wierd. Living in Susanville for 27 years I was practically living in the middle of BLM territory (or at least it felt like it LOL). The people there know the different wild herds and they know what herds to get the best mares from. In Susanville the breeders love the mares because they help make their babies better. The mustangs have better legs, etc.. My dad took me to a BLM vacility in Nevada, about 30 minutes from Susanville, I think, and I saw the facilities. The horses I saw had already gone through the training process and were very friendly. In my riding classes we had several "mustangs" that some students had bought that I rode, and even though they were a bit green, they were actualy kinda fun to ride. I have no idea where the "running off the cliffs" comes from. Two veterinarians that practice in Susanville had been on one of those "runs" and I know for a fact they wouldn't participate in that if it was abusive.

I received the following email message today from a volunteer with Columbia Basin Equine Rescue:

"HI!
I am one of the local "frontline" volunteers who get the horses out of the feedlot for CBER and who help take pictures, and act as a PS or Placement Specialist, contact person, on listed horses. I would like to personally thank you and the rest of the Woolery Board and FOB for pitching in to help save the last 3-4 horses. Could you let that board know how much we appreciate their willingness to save horses and how wonderful it is! Their generousity was so very kind and the horses (and I) really appreciate it! When things settle down a bit, I will try and get some new pictures and info of the ones you helped with. If there are any questions or anything I can do for you or your group, please let me know. Again, thank you so much, Heidi"

I received the following email message today from a volunteer with Columbia Basin Equine Rescue:

"HI!
I am one of the local "frontline" volunteers who get the horses out of the feedlot for CBER and who help take pictures, and act as a PS or Placement Specialist, contact person, on listed horses. I would like to personally thank you and the rest of the Woolery Board and FOB for pitching in to help save the last 3-4 horses. Could you let that board know how much we appreciate their willingness to save horses and how wonderful it is! Their generousity was so very kind and the horses (and I) really appreciate it! When things settle down a bit, I will try and get some new pictures and info of the ones you helped with. If there are any questions or anything I can do for you or your group, please let me know. Again, thank you so much, Heidi"

Sorry for the double post.

WENDY; LOL. He may be the WORD, but he isn't KEY!!!!!

***************

Stupid Question:

I assumed that Rosie would give birth while lying down. Is it possible that she will give birth while standing?

**************

Pat G,

Not likely. She will probably be standing when her water breaks. You may see feet. She may get up once she is lying down to "reposition" the foal but mares usually deliver lying down.

We did deliver a foal once while the mare was standing - but it was because the foal presented upside down and delivering him while she was standing lessened the chance that the foal would tear the uterus.

Giraffes give birth standing up - very uncomfortable to watch the baby "plop" to the ground.

Hi, FOB's!

###
Some happy news. Just got back from seeing Avi and I got to see a 2-day-old foal - little lady. She's black with a white spot on her forehead - no name yet but I'm calling her Mom's Surprise since apparently nobody knew the mother was pregnant. Avi is fine...loved seeing his owner and me and he also is manifesting his healing abilities rather quickly.

The baby brought a smile to my face...

For those in the path of the snowstorm, stay safe.

Healing, Love, Peace,
ONS,
Lyn Gilbert

###

Equine Heaven

and

Susan in Saratoga,

Please thank Barbaro for welcoming Fitch into the heaven's where beauty abounds and love is everlasting.

I'm not familar with his story. I just can't. But he is in a better place where he is running free and learning all of the good that people are capable of...from Barbaro. Barbaro knew love, he knows love.

I see that Fitch will be at rest with a special blanket. That made me smile...

Thank you Equine Heaven and Susan in Saratoga for your amazing posts. They go straight to the heart and bring love to a new level. Thank you.

P.S. Thank you Alex.

Hey, family -
Sorry to have been out of the loop the last three days. I work, as I mentioned, for a family business, (not my family, however), and there was a death in the owner's family, which led to CRAZY hours. So, I have monitored, but not carefully enough to be able to extend condolences to those who lost pets, or happy birthdays to those who achieved that milestone. Please forgive.
Have made my calls, faxes, emails, etc. One encouraging piece of news: I mentioned before that my nephews and nieces are in the Chicago area, as are my sisters-in-law. I forwarded the DeKalb info to them, and they ALL CALLED and emailed!!!! The really cool thing is not the additional calls generated by eight people - it is that they could not get through immediately, due to busy signals!!! Perhaps there was a surge in calls, which would be wonderful!
Good news out of Texas indeed, and, as we are reminded, NOT a reason to slacken efforts, but rather to redouble them...as is obviously happening. GREAT JOB, ALL!
Little Fitch - oh, sometimes I just HATE being human. There are no words for this kind of behavior. All we can do is try to educate, inform, and develop empathy for the creatures who share this place with us. But oh, Lord, it is wearing. I just feel bruised...
Have been so broke I could not send anything, but will be dispatching little bits beginning on 3/14, when payday rolls around.
Love and comfort (!) to all in need, four-legged and two-legged, and have a Barbaro night - courage and kindness.
I love you all, and am proud to be here.
- Jean

Becky L & Cathy Potter - I too loved to watch the races back in the 60s as well and was so upset when Candy Spots & Willie Shoemaker were beaten out in the Derby by Chateaugay who I think was ridden by Braulio Baeza. That's really going back. (Actually, I think Candy Spots was third.)

Did anyone else watch the Race of the Week which was always (at least in my memory) called by Fred Cappasella? "The horses are in the gate - it is now post time."

Laurie H.

Welcome back!!! Hope you're feeling better. You were missed...

Nancy Jean in Huntington Beach,CA are you out there yet?

All Los Angeles area FOBs, let's get together at Hollywood Park on April 29...

####
Laurie H.
Is it really you? Hi, sweetie. I thought you would rest a little longer. It's wonderful to see you here! I've been thinking a lot about you and sending you lots of healing. I'm so glad and grateful that you're on the mend. You are the heart and soul of the board, as I've said before.

Laurie H

It is so WONDERFUL to see you back. We've all missed you. Hope you're feeling better!!

I tried a tuck-in one night but it sure wasn't like yours LOL

####

Patti and Marilyn,

Yes, it's me!

I just couldn't let little Fitch's posts go by without a thank you.

I have SO MANY people to thank here on the board. The prayers, posts, well-wishes and emails were/are a HUGE help.

Thank you so much for your care and concern. I'm coming around...

Thank you again. Goood night!

###
L.H.
Well, please take it very easy tonight. You don't need to stay here and respond to each post. Try not to get too tired out. It's just nice to know you are watching over us....

((((Laurie H)))) Welcome Back!!!!

Lynz-Thank you..:):)

Hiya, FsOB! Thank you to everyone (Matt, Pamela, & others) for posting the HSUS press release re. the appeals court's ruling re. the TX slaughterhouses. I promise to keep checking the HSUS site to see if there is an attempt on the part of the TX SHs to go to the Supreme Court. The potential closures in TX make it even more important to pass HR 503/S-311!

To my FsOB in CT: Joe Courtney and Chris Murphy, our two freshmen Congressmen, have still not signed on as co-sponsors. Argh! We need to keep up our advocacy efforts. (Today I even drafted poor, long-suffering Brent to call Joe Courtney's office in Norwich, CT!)

To Jane in CT, may I ask which newspaper your article or letter will be in? We get The Hartford Courant and now The Day, too. I would like to respond to your letter with support in writing to the newspaper, if you can share a copy.

To Barb M. in Fla: Still no word from the Belgian Tourist Board. I had mailed a letter. I'll e-mail this weekend and shall do the same with Mexico (which certainly relies on US tourists). I still tell people when I am in stores and restaurants why I won't buy Belgian chocolates or purchase their beer.

To CJ and Pamela: Thanks so much for the info. I have printed down some items from Google re. Mayor Bacon's work. I'll try to reach her office before the start of next week to ask permission to nominate her for one of The Profiles in Courage awards. Yes, she is a 5th generation Kaufman, TX native AND a Harvard graduate (should be an interesting bio for the review team!).

#### To JoAnne from NC: May your new year be a good one!

To Dawn, I have lit two candles for Erin. May her MRI have uneventful findings tomorrow. This must be so worrisome for her family.

To CJ: Yes, getting Fitch's story aon America's Most Wanted may help to raise the ugliness of horse slaughter and animal abuse more widely to the general public. I didn't know about horse slaughter until I became a citizen of The Barbaro Nation last Summer!

To Dave in IL, Martita, and Sue M: Beautiful postings today.

To Harriette: Thanks for letting Laurie H. know how much she is missed.

To Marie in Atl: Great to see you again. We all make our own unique contribution to the well-being of animals.

A good night to all FsOB! Peace, RMH

####

Shelley A.,

Thank you for the welcome and well wishes!

I think about your boys often and wonder about them and their blankets.

I hope they're keeping them on...

Good night Shelley A. Thank you again.

Laurie H.!!!~~~ ;-)

Wow!! It is a good day!

Welcome back. It is wonderful to hear that you are feeling better.

Here's hoping that every day you feel stronger and more joyful.. It surely gives me strength and joy to know that you are back at your keyboard.

Shirley
California

Laurie H.

It's so great to see you post again! Thought about you everyday. How are you feeling? Would have liked to contact you, but didn't have your email address. Take care of yourself and get back to your old self. We'll be waiting for you.

Laurie H
Welcome Home
You have been greatly missed by your family here in Barbaroland.

####

Marilyn/CA,

You gave great advice just now and I will take it, thank you!

Good night!!

Rosie Update: It seems there has been some questions in regards to her rotund stature. Though her tummy is large, what has happened is her hind end has fallen away, making ready for birth, which causes her tummy to look way large. Rosie in the early stages of her pregnancy had a once nice, firm large QH hiney. She will regain this once the birth is completed and she is able to be on an exercise regimen.

Now here is some big news as well, the night Rosie was purchased, my dear friend, purchased Rosie's half sister, Brandy. She had been told she might have been bred but they were not sure. Well, as time went on she noticed her growing large, and had her vet come out and check, and sure enough she was with foal. We had been talking off and on over the last two weeks checking on baby status. Well, I received a call from her today to let me know that Brandy, who is only 4yrs old, had her first and last baby, yesterday afternoon, at 1pm. There had been no signs of her going to foal, so she went to the feed store and when she returned, there stood a little Liver Chestnut Filly, two hind white socks and a star on her face with Mama Brandy. Mama and Baby are doing great! Could this be an omen for Rosie??

I also ran into our Veterinarian at the store this afternoon. (I had a conversation with him yesterday evening). I told him we still don't have a baby!! He laughed and gave me a huge smile and said and I quote "Patience my dear, Patience"! I then let him know, there were many, many people waiting for her to have this baby..and his response was "Tell them Patience, and laughed. For all of you I rolled my eyes at him.

Keep our fingers crossed, and I hope everyone has a wonderful evening!

Stephanie

Oh My

A standing birth is possible?.....I will need the FOB nerve pills. Then again, never mind: I'll be sleeping on the keyboard missing the whole thing.

After the last 2 days we could all really use a happy healthy foal and mom.

God bless Barbaro as he runs with his little brother Fitch.

**Laurie H.

Welcome back, glad you are recouperating nicely.

Anxiously awaiting for your next tuck-in.

Ken Z

I am so.o.o.o. happy that Conrad Burns will no longer grace the halls of power.

I cannot speak for other states, but I grew up in Wyoming, where most of the state is public lands, and while individuals in the BLM were honest and wonderful individuals, the agency was firmly, and I'm assuming still is, under the control of ranchers. Anything that increased the cost of raising livestock was fair game, whether it was coyotes, wild horses, wolves, or even eagles.

I am sypathetic to how difficult it is for many of these ranchers to make a living, and without public lands most in Wyoming would not do so. However, these are "public" lands and should be managed for the benefit of all...not just ranchers. It is a fine balance without easy solutions. However, I will continue to oppose any efforts which will lead to the slaughter of innocent horses who only require an infintesimal piece of our land for survival.

##
Thanks Stephanie

That is great news: the circle of life makes this all bearable. BTW thanks for rolling your eyes for us, LOL!

Yay - Rosies bum is squishy!!! Thanks Steph...Like I needed any more incentive to stay up till 5am staring at her every movement.

*passing out FOB brand toothpicks*

((((((((LAURIE))))))))

###
Laurie H,

Welcome back..you were truely missed. Hope you are recovering well. God Bless you Laurie.

###
Hi all, I usually don't "plea" but tonight I am.

There is another colt out there that needs our prayers and candles. He is fighting for his life tonight, and mom Cheri at horse feathers rescue is also very ill but is out with Ernie holding him and comforting him as the vet is caring for him.

Ernie is a FOB rescued colt, please go to this thread on the forum (I tried to blue link it but alex has something set up so that won't go thru yet)

http://forums.prospero.com/timwoolley/messages?msg=6083.1

Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I just got to talk to Ernie on sunday and this is breaking my heart but I know he will pull thru this!!

######
Laurie H.,
Glad to see you're back and feeling better. Take good care of yourself.

#####
Dear, sweet Fitch,
I'm so sorry your innocent life was cut so incredibly short. I'm heartbroken and unspeakably angry, but knowing that you're in heaven, pain free and able to frolic with Barbaro makes this somewhat bearable. Rest in peace forever, baby boy. You are so loved.

Kelly XOXOXO

LAMINITIS FUND U PENN

FOR MR. BARBARO--

LOVE YOU,
CHERYL G

###

GOD BLESS YOU MR. FITCH, THIS IS THE FIRST I'VE BEEN ONLINE TODAY. MAY YOU REST IN PEACE AND RUN IN THE PASTURES WITH MR. BARBARO!! I'M VERY SAD TO HEAR THE NEWS.

LOVE & PRAYERS,
CHERYL G

###
Thanks Stephanie for the update on Rosie!! I got some cute pictures of her and posted on the new thread on the forum.

Sally said she gives up talking to her, she has been talking to the foal

how about you call and have rosie talk to her sister? ha ha. never know !! can you imagine what that conversation would be like??

My Mom says it will be after midnight.. says she would love it as tomorrow would have been her own mothers bday..

###

going to try my blue links for Ernie the sick colt:

Thread on the Forum:
Ernie Updates

Candle Group: Candles For Ernie

Lynz
Sorry...had to make dinner and take a couple of calls. I like the Joe Schmoe scenarios and yes, precisely. It's because of the Joe Schmoes in this world that we must end the slaughter. Then, maybe Joe will think twice about buying a horse knowing that selling for slaughter will no longer be an alternative.
I believe....and maybe it's just me, but I belive that the BLM don't have their heads in the sand. They know perfectly well that after the one year holding period anything goes.
My solution.....leave the wild horses alone. There's plenty of room to share.

I am always shocked at the evil 2 legged animals inflict on 4 legged animals. I am involved in dog & cat rescue & all my babies have always been from rescue adoption agencies. These people are terrible cowards that did this to such a helpless baby as Fitch. He is with Barbaro now, at least we can be comforted by that! I hope they find out who did this
disgusting crime & they are punished beyond what the law will allow. It is never enough!

I love you Barbaro & miss you all the time.

The high level officials of the BLM serve at the will of the White House. As with all other agencies those officials change with the administration. The policies within each agency change with the officials. The whole thing "trickles down" to the individual offices.

Depending on the White House the BLM can be a protector of the resources or can be the Bureau of Livestock and Mining. Anyone care to guess what it is under the current administration?

###
Cathy,

Can you email me at shop@exquisite-equestrian.com?

Good evening to all FOB's!

Please indulge me one more time for announcing this on the board again!

I started a new thread under Barbaro on the discussion board about a birthday get together at Lone Star Park for anyone in the Texas or surrounding area on April 29th. Plese let me know if you are interested. I will be glad to contact the park about a place for us to meet and greet.

Laurie H,
I am so glad to see you feel well enough for a short post. I hope you get stronger & stronger each day. We really missed you.

Laurie H.:) WOW! WOW! WOW! I 'gasped' when I read your name, Sweet Person:) Sooooooooo, and I DO mean Sooooooooooooooooo, good to see your name at the end of a post....Now....GO REST! :)
Love You, Lynne

***FOBs

Let's pause a moment whatever you are doing, wherever you are, and pray for ERNIE'S full recovery.

WE ALL LOVE YOU ERNIE!!

Ken Z

COMMENTS NEEDED!

Hi Everyone:
I know today has been an eventful one, but if you could spare a couple of minutes to post a comment on espn.com regarding Jason Shandler's article, I would really appreciate it. The article is linked in Alex's update #1563, and there is a link after the story to post a comment. Right now, there are only seven comments, and two of them are from the same pro-slaughter person.
I know hardly anyone here knows me because I don't post very often, but I've been in contact with Jason regarding this article since late January. He is very committed to this cause, and also in helping us to get the word out in any way possible. He worked really hard on it, did an excellent job, and it could help us get future stories done if ESPN sees a big response to this article.
Thanks for all you do; I am constantly in awe of the generosity and caring of the FOBs!
Steph

Cathy - that is the big problem with the herds. Historically there was enough forage to go around but as people have developed land the available land for forage has been decreased. Add in the fact that the wild horses have no natural predators anymore and that they reproduce very well and you soon end up with horses starving in the winter. A similar analogy would be deer. In areas where they have no natural predators they overpopulate and starve. State agencies allow hunting to reduce the herds.

I am not suggesting a hunt - just using the analogy. I think the answers are:
Eliminate Slaughter and figure out a birth control method for the horses.

Abercrombie needs our prayers!!

Jen posted this over on the DB under "Prayers for Abercrombie Also":

"He is not doing well tonight at all. They tried to shield him from the burial but he saw it and he was screaming when they were lowering Fitch into the ground. These boys were born 4 days apart on the same farm.... sold to the same auctionhouse in Minnesota... bought by the same killbuyers and then eventually purchased by us and shipped together to SC."

Let's all remember to also light some candles for this frightened and traumatized horse. I've started a candle group under "aberc."

Well, its been a day of high highs and very low lows. Fitch is no longer suffering, but we are suffering so over his short and tragic life. Erin, Abercrombie, Fitch's family and Ernie are in my prayers. Laurie H. is back...welcome, we missed you so much. Susan from Saratogo has written some exceptional words....as have many others...but most of all, we have some incredible news regarding horse slaughter in Texas, and some incredible momentum going. So I am off to bed, to prepare for another busy and productive day tomorrow. Goodnight to all the wonderful FOBs with the giant hearts and wills.

I have been praying for Ernie.

Laurie H., Thank goodness you are home. We all love you and miss you.

What great news from Texas.

So proud to be a FOB. Thank you Steve Rei for the rescue plan. Love the slaughter article. Has anyone noticed how we went from being the "crazies who sent Barbaro carrots" to a major force in the equine world. Well, it should be no surprise, we had great inspiration. Thanks Barbaro!

What awful news about Fitch! Come on FOB's we will not let his death go unnoticed. Make those calls.

that poor little horse..I hope abercrombie will be ok..this is heartbreaking...my heart goess out to this little horse.

Steph

Post your message again tomorrow for the day shift about comments for Jason.

FOB's
Stephanie has worked very hard with Jason Shandler and he is anxious to help us. Please click on the link in updates and leave a comment. He is committed to help us on a regular basis so we must show him our appreciation. He wrote a WONDERFUL article and even told people how to help!!!!
His article will reach MANY people and we can't let the pro slaughter comments over shadow us.

Thanks,
Shelley

Oh, Laurie H! I am SOOOOOOOOOOOOOO glad to see you!
Going to ESPN to post comments.
Lit a candle earlier for Ernie. Will go do more, as well as for Abercrombie, and Erin.
Golly. What a day...
- Jean

Oh...Abercrombie - he will do better if they let him see, touch, smell. Since it is too late for that - if they have something that has Fitch's scent on it - like a blanket they should put that in Abercrombie's pen - it will help. They might also try letting him be at the burial site. Time will help too. Horses grieve, just like us. He will be okay.

Hi Fobs,

I've only posted a couple of times in regards to some of the equine-heaven "reads"-they really have helped me, along with this site to!!

I've been reading some of the posts regarding SH and I am just appalled!! As a Canadian, I have just come to find out, through a bit of research, that we have three SH's-two in Quebec and one in Manitoba. After reading some articles, I also read a story-(dated Sept. 2006)-that a 16 yr. old racehorse from Assiniboia Downs (in Manitoba) was headed to slaughter-Horrible!!-But what shocked me even more, was that "Special Decision" is the grand-daughter to the 1978 Triple Crown Winner Affirmed.......Thankfully, her previous owner called an equine rescue facility in Manitoba to take her, which they did-and she is now enjoying her retirement.

Unfortunately, "Exceller" was not as lucky. His groom was quoted as saying, "He was not much of a stallion and his bankrupt owner no longer wanted to pay his bills." This was a horse that won 1.64 million dollars in stake races, peaking in 1978 when he defeated The Triple Crown Winner Seattle Slew in another stakes race. On his fateful day, his groom was quoted as saying, "Exceller knew what was going on; he didn't want to be there. Standing there with him like that.....it made me feel like Judas."

Sorry this post is long, but tomorrow I will begin my "Canadian" calls to whoever will listen and act on ending horse slaughter in Canada.

Regal pedigree or not, they need to be saved!!

Laurie H.: I can't tell you how glad I am that you are feeling better. Rest, relax, and recover. You have been so missed.

Fitch: Bless your little heart. Know that you are loved.

Barbaro: I'll love you forever baby boy. Take care of little Fitch and send down a little nuzzle for Laurie.

Laurie H ...... a HUGE welcome back .... you have been greatly missed ..... I hope you are warmly tucked in right now ....... surely the Dream Angels have alot of catching up to do with you ......... please take especially good care.

Sherry - Arizona

Just got home and caught up. Oh Abercrombie. It hurts so much to hear about his reaction to Fitch's burial.

Anyone thinking animals are dumb, unfeeling, disposable needs to read this.

Laurie H, I am delighted and relieved to see you home again.

Steph & Shelley,

Read Jason's article and left my comment. Could he possible write something about Fitch?

I too am going to say good night. It's been an emotionally exhausting day with the news about poor little Fitch, and now hearing about Abercrombie.

On a lighter note, it was wonderful to see a post from Laurie H. Welcome home kind soul. I hope each day finds you feeling stronger. We've missed you, and we love you.

Alex and Tim, thank you for another day here at TWR. Where would we be without you?

Praying for a safe foaling for Rosie, and a happy, healthy baby.

Praying for Ernie's complete recovery.

Prayers that we learn to treat our earth, the animals and one another with thoughtfulness, compassion and respect, and value all life, no matter how great or small.

Good night FOBs. Thank you for being the kind of people who keep me believing that there still is goodness in the hearts of mankind. Have a pleasant evening, and remember to always be safe out there.

Barbaro...I loved you from the moment I saw you. You were that rare something in this world that takes one's breath away and captures the heart... you have forever captured mine.

The miracle of Barbaro continues...

My Precious Barbaro: Another day and missing you so very much. My heart will not be happy again until I get to go home with you. Until then, I have dedicated my life into saving your equine family. We have become the voices for those that cannot speak. Love you so much, my beautiful bay colt.

Father, thank you for the "Miracle of Barbaro"

Lost in the Fog: My angel horse....your candles are lit and my love continues to flow to you. Am anxiously waiting until I can finally touch your "crooked blaze".....

Father, thank you for "The Fog"

Precious Fitch: You are healthy and complete now. Even though you were here for such a short time, I'm so happy that you did not leave us before knowing how much you are loved. You are safe now, little one, the "evil ones" cannot hurt you anymore. Run and play happily with our Precious Barbaro and all the others that have gone ahead. One of these days, we will be with you. You will know when we get there because the Barbaro Family are all "animal lovers" before anything else.

"Love is the first ingredient in the relief of suffering."--Padre Pio

### FOB's Have a wonderful evening and for those of you that are on the Rosie watch, I hope that something happens and it is a good story for me to see in the morning.

## Cal I have a candle lit for the special little one, however I had to rub two sticks together because your package did not arrive yet with the case of lighters. :-)

### Alex Take care on that track tomorrow. Please stay safe and enjoy your day. I hope it warms up for you over there soon. I don't know how you do it. I can't even stand it when it gets down to 32 degrees which it doesn't do very often here. We are usually in the 40's and 50's in the winter. Geeeeeeeeeeeeesh you are one strong individual to be able to get up in the morning and hit that track and ride those horses with the cold and the wind chill. I wish I had your courage and endurance. You are amazing!!!

Angel Barbaro. I have my state aced because of you and so I am now going to start doing "other" projects to help with all of the un-finished things that you left for me to do that is within my power.

Good Night to all and God Bless each and every one of you. Please don't let the trolls bother you. They are only words on a PC screen and in the whole picture, they mean absolutely nothing.

Blessings Nina J

Heartbroken...Abercrombie is terrorized and heartbroken. Perhaps a new rescue foal or "friend" will arrive very soon to keep him company and help him to forget his night of terror.

Poor little Fitch - I'll gladly contribute to help catch the human garbage that murdered this innocent little colt. I have a nice Luger I keep around to remind me of a WWII dead Nazi. It makes a real nice gaping hole when discharged. It's going to be a sad day when all of us have to go to bed at night with alarms set, doors and windows locked, our property monitored...

Rosie, You are one big girl! Give us some happy news here at TWR tonight. We need some good news!

Steph, Thanks for the great updates and trying to keep the cam up at night. Rosie's new foal will be a 1/2 (?) cousin to Brandy's new little filly!

Lighting more candles for Big B, Fitch, Pine, and little Ernie tonight.

Janet, WA 8:00 PST

Everyone, please post a comment on the ESPN site about Jason's article. There are only 11 comments and 2-3 are pro-slaughter! You don't have to say much except to thank him for the great article.

I posted my comment to Jason's article. Like so many I am starting to feel the effects of the last few days. I will miss the Rosie show tonight.

I appreciate and admire you all more than you'll ever know. I am sad about Fitch and pray that this time we may receive a miracle for Ernie.

No matter what, I will be here tomorrow because one day we will celebrate the end of HS or a cure for laminitis in Barbaro's name.

Night family

Please don't forget to light some candles for Barbaro, they are below 2000 at the moment.

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

So sad today about Finch...BUT all the wonderful rescues are AWESOME!!! FOB are wonderful!!! You all help me through good and not so good times simply by reading everyday! I love you guys!!!

Thank you Alex as always...
Love to the BBH 4-Ever!!!

(Been here since the begining and will stay...)

###
Marky,

Good night. Don't worry, Rosie will lay down when she foals. Just didn't want you to have a stroke if she gets up during the foaling to change positions.

***FOBs

Those candles seem to be helping ERNIE. He is beginning to show some positive signs, though not out of the woods yet. This, according to the last posting on the Prospero site at 11.07pm EDT.

Rosie surely seems fidgety tonight. Or is it just wishful thinking?

((((((( Laurie )))))))

You have been dearly missed. Remember: one day at a time.

With love,

Susan

Hi Handsome Sweetheart:)

Well Bobby, it's been a BIG day here...some very sad 'stuff' and some pretty happy 'stuff' too!

Thank you for being there last night when little Fitch arrived...thanks for talking to him and helping him release his anger. I will be remembering what you said, hoping my own anger will 'release' too. It is painful to read and hear of such atrocities toward any living creatures but for me, it is especially difficult when I know they have been directed to animals!

We helped save 7 horses today and a mule in your Honor, Bobby:) I hope they will all find those wonderful "forever homes" and learn to trust humans again and feel the love those homes will bring them.

We also got some very good news about two 's' houses in Texas...Yippppppeeeeeee:) We will continue calling and faxing and 'pestering' those officials and get this horrid practice STOPPED once and for all! In your Honor, Bobby:)

Auntie Laurie posted a little note tonight:) She is feeling better...I know, you already knew that didn't you? Of course you did!

You sleep good tonight, get ready for another big day at Heaven's Gate Farm tomorrow, and I'll check in again tomorrow night.

I love you Bobby Jackson....xxxooo + kisses on 'yer' nose:)
Lynne-Your Forever Friend in CA

###

I need to catch up on posts but will do later, LOT of Hats in the ring tonight, but just wanted to say THANK YOU For your candles and Prayers for Ernie, he is NOT out of the woods but he is showing some improvement: (need to see some precious pictures of him and his "dad" too!

Ernie Updates:

###Laurie H
I'm so glad you are feeling better. Don't you ever do that again to us, do you hear? We were so worried about you. You don't need to try and answer all of us back, either, because you have been here for so many long months tucking Barbaro in and giving us words of encouragement and hope. Now, it's your time to rest and heal. I read that the nurses brought you a warm blanket each night in the hospital, and I hope you know our love and prayers were tucked right inside those blankets for you.

Mary L***

Your dad is a real trooper!! The pictures you posted tell the story.

Praying for all of you and ERNIE!!

Ken Z

Barbaro Nation,
Wow you all are doing so much good. Todays logs were very informative especially regarding the wild mustang and do not forget the burros.

The anti slaughter aspect is so very important to keep a focus on. But then as I have read tonight regarding wild horses is the advocacy for them to have a place on the range and to be managed for numbers that the land can carry and leads to a healthy herd. Once again numbers and birth control. Read how the thoroughbred retirement folks are having a hard time now with 1500 thoroughbreds. Well there are near 30000 wild horses in facilities that need homes and food and care in the interim. Ensuring accountability in their management is probably the key and creating greater awareness about these icons of our history.

Thank you to all of you who work so hard to help our equine friends you all humble me.

(((Barbaro)))

## Robyn H - I spoke to the Belgium tourist office months ago and emailed them information, of course they had no clue about horse slaughter.
They invited me to their seminar and I responded letting them know why I would not attend or promote their country. Hope you get a response.
Mexico is totally dependent on US tourism. I sent the tourist rep the HSUS link showing the brutal Mexico slaughter houses which the rep insisted do not exist. Money talks or in this case potential loss of alot of tourism dollars.

Prayers go out to Jen and Abercrombie, may you find comfort in knowing you saved Fitch so he could know some love in his short life. Just heartbreaking the suffering he endured.

Some interesting interviews today on At the Races regarding this past weekend's big races. Adore the Gold - trainer Mike Gorham stated he is not discouraged - he broke from post 9, took a right hand turn and was on his wrong lead half the race. No Biz - all the Monday morning quarterbacks think he needs blinkers to focus better. Doug Oneil - Lava Man strong possibility for Dubai and connections of Bright One - heartbroken as he ran his heart out with a broken leg that shattered a sesamoid after he crossed the finish line. On a more positive note, Pat Kelly, trainer of warrior horse Evening Attire was interviewed, they were thrilled for the horse winning on Sat. he loves his job and is not interested in retirement yet.
I was at Gulfstream and loved King of the Roxy - a great story because he is an Ohio bred purchased for a mere $8,000 at a sale.

Let's capitalize on the momentum from the Texas ruling - more calls and faxes tomorrow.

Joanne in NC - Happy Birthday, mine also today.

Barb m in Florida

ShelleyA, Dave, Marky, MJ
Thanks to you (and anyone else I may have missed) who posted a comment to Jason's article. There are now 14 comments, and all are anti-slaughter except two!
I will definitely repost a plea for this tomorrow morning, but if anybody on the East Coast can do it also (Shelley? Marky?) I'd appreciate it. I'm in CA, so by the time I get up, get to work and can post, I'm always a couple of hours behind the curve! Thanks!
Steph

Good night, my Beloved Angel boys. I'm emotionally exhausted tonight.

Five weeks and four weeks since the two of you left. I miss you both so much. Be at peace, know you are loved more deeply than I can ever express in words.

###
Waiting...

There is accountability...if staff don't do it right they will lose their jobs. If the horses don't get adopted they are sent to sanctuaries to live out the rest of their lives. Happy and healthy.

##
Ken Z

"daddy" is Cheri (Horse Feather's Rescue) boyfriend and Ernie just loves him!! He attached to Viet from the day he came home after the FOB's helped save him.

(my father passed 9 yrs ago on st pats day). but hey thanks! Made me feel young. lol.

Remi, Welcome fellow Canadian, I know the story you are talking about and sadly I know the horses you are referring to. I live right here in Manitoba. I am glad to see another Canadian wanting to make contact with the powers that be. I would be happy to help you double your efforts. Do you have an email address?

Welcome aboard.

Some days it just really feels like too much....

Bein' sick dont help a lick either!!!

Anyway - the bright spot = Welcome Home Laurie H., if ever you doubted your impact on our community, those doubts should be forever erased now, hey? Take the time you need to build your strength and come back to our open arms.

And do not answer posts individually - it is soooooo not necessary - we will wait for you!

Love,
Glenda Jo

Good night Sweet Boy and Little One. How the world loves and misses you both. Please keep watch over Abercombie. He needs you.

***

Dearest Barbaro,

Look over us, guide us through our daily tasks,

mentor us through our struggles, so that we may endure new challenges....

and may your wisdom continue to provide us with open minds and giving hearts....

to help make this world a better place, in peace and harmony....

and let your fine example of life be our guiding light forever until that day when we join you in greener pastures.....

when once again we meet again when you come to greet us at the foot of the Rainbow Bridge.

WE love YOU, Dearest Barbaro, Our Human Glory!!

Goodnight Big B :)

### Patti in Sherman Oaks, hi! count me in for sure for any So. Cal gathering for big B's birthday. I have to hand my computer over to my 13 year old for a school project right now.(how rude!) LOL

doesnt he know I need to read posts? we just got back from Little League practice!

I did scroll up quickly just to see if Laurie H. was ok,thats when i saw your post.

I stay up late for Rosie Watch...if the cam is working tonight I hope! Thanks again Stephanie for your updates,etc.

Will try to catch you tomorrow Patti in case you are off the board already...

Lynz,

That is good news...still seems that there is much to do regarding the numbers and management. Apparently something must be wrong or HR 249 would not have been created by the 100th Congress?
It also sems that there are many dedicated ppl trying to find the hosrse homes.
(((Barbaro)))

I haven't had a chance to check the posts above today, but I hope someone has posted that Cheri of Horse Feathers had taken in an emaciated colt who needed surgery for a hernia. After the surgery yesterday he has had major traumas today, and although he seems to be improving with impressive immediate treatment he certainly needs your prayers. If you go to the following site on the forum under the thread "Prayers for Horsefeathers Colt Needed" in the General folder, you can follow his progress today. There are beautiful photos of him resting his sick and tired head on Viet, and sleeping in the hay with him.

http://forums.delphiforums.com/n/mb/message.asp?webtag=timwoolley&msg=6083.1

We prayed and lost with Fitch, LET'S PRAY AND WIN WITH ERNIE! We can't afford to lose another of these precious lives, and we owe so much to those watching over and nurturing them through sickness and into health. Thanks to Mary L and Nancy J for keeping the news flowing and the photographs which bring us the light in Ernie's eyes - you will not believe what a sweet colt this is... who started out as scared and nearly untouchable.

Thank you all, kindred souls and loving spirits.

###
Mary L

Thank you for the updates on Ernie. I just tried to post on the forums but am having trouble doing it with this computer. I usually post while at work during the day. I've been up late checking on Ernie and am hoping for a much better outcome for him than there was last night for poor little Fitch.

The pictures you put up of him are so cute and I hope and pray with all my heart that he pulls through this.

###
Abercrombie - I know this is hard for you. You are having a very hard time because you lost your very best companion that you have been with for all your life. Please know that you will get through this and you are in a loving place now where the humans you are with will not allow harm to come to you. I hope you have a long life filled with all the love you deserve.

Barbaro, it seems that you are getting a lot of company up there in equine heaven. It's sad for us, but at least now they, as you, are no longer in pain. The Barbaro Nation prays for all of you every day.

Proud to be an FOB!!!

Stephanie in CA - just posted a message on Jason's article. Haven't forgot your tapes, they are going out to you this week. Thanks for your help getting Jason involved.

Barb m in Florida

Good Night Barbaro Nation. May tomorrow give you energy. I have been coming here since day one and I have a request. We've saved several horses and mules which has added up to lots of money. We've sent flowers and carrots and mints and spent lots of money..but we raised less than $1000.00 for laminitis research in a whole month. Can we do better? Laminitis is responsible for more deaths per year than slaughter.
It is extraordinarily painful for the horse.... it took our Barbaro..surely there is room in our hearts for both!

###
Waiting,
Scroll up - Cathy Potter posted some interesting tidbits on the bill. It is to restore the teeth in the Wild Horse Protection Act that were removed by one Senator from the West. The good news is that although the teeth may not be in the Act right now the staff on the ground are still abiding by the old rules and doing their best to make sure the horses are adopted to good homes. No easy task in this busy world where a wild mustang is a major undertaking. The ones that aren't adopted are going to sanctuaries.

Laurie H: So glad to see you back - You have been so very missed -

Welcome Home...

Lisa in Colorado

Just wanted to share with you all that I had another lovely time with Moses, the horse we are sponsoring at H.O.R.S.E. of CT, this weekend. The director and the volunteers are so patient (with me as I learn the ropes of grooming and exercising Moses) as are the other more experienced sponsors I have met. I am absolutely smitten with Moses. I spent almost an hour grooming him on Saturday. Our walk this time went very smoothly. He was a perfect gentleman and did not try to squeeze me between his body and the gate this time (not intentionally, of course). As i am gaining confidence in ability to manage him, he seems to be gaining confidence in me. He has a lovely new halter with his name on it (couldn't resist), a new lead rope and grooming gear. The new halter is double-stitched so it should last a little longer than his last one. Apparently he likes to play a little rough with them.
It amazes me that these large animals weighing over 1,000 lbs. can be so sweet and trusting.
I feel so blessed to be able to spend time with Moses and the other horses that call H.O.R.S.E. home. The volunteers are wonderful with all of the horses, but there are many to care for 7 days a week. We sponsors are able to spend special quality time with "our" horse. It feels as though my little-girl fantasy of having a horse of my own has come true. I hope all who wish it have an opportunity to experience a special relationship with one of Barbaro's kin.

Laurie H Welcome BACK!! So happy to know you are recovering. You were missed sooooooooooooo much

Stephanie, thanks for all your news. Poor little Rosie. I hope that baby comes soon

Such great news about Texas today. Thank you Mayor Bacon. There are no words that can express the gratitude we feel for your hard, tireless work.

ALL CO fambleee members...Please drop me a note re next week?? CLMRUNNER@aol.com. So hoping to see you all next week.

Good night, Sweet bArbaro. Got my BloodHorse commemorative magazine today. First thing I saw when I opened the package was a huge brown eye. I see your eyes in my mind so many times each day. Did you see me cry when I was looking at your pitcktchurs? It was from sadness but happiness too, to be able to see so many wonderful photos and read stories about you.

I know you and little Fitch and Apache and so many others are having sooooooooooo much fun, but could you please whisper to Abercrombie tonight? Those special nickers..you know the ones. Please tell Fitch that Abercrombie is grieving, as we all are, but we don't think he understands that Fitch is running free with you now, and that he'll see him and you some day. Maybe you could let him know that he'll have so much love here. He'll miss Fitch, but we'll love him and he'll have a home to be happy and loved forever.

All those horses there with you in hevvin? The ones who were sent there from Texas? Are they smiling and wuffling tonight? We are happy here to know that no one will ever be sent to hevvin from those places in Texas. We won't stop, though, Sweet Boy. We promised your Mom. Illinois will not be far behind. We PROMISE

I wish you were still here, but have to understand that you are now rewarded for all your goodness here, and for all the goodness you have inspired. You deserve it Big Boy.

But I miss you. I love you sooooooooooooo much
Aunty Cheryl

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Shelley in Ca. thank you for posting again about Ernie. He is sure fighting tonight. and the pictures of him with his "daddy" are just the cutest thing!! is that true horsey love and caring or what??

I am catching up finally on some posts here and the forum, I posted the last update I get from Cheri .. but I feel it will be a restless night until Ernie is out of the woods with this..

Rosie cam is down again :( Rosie keeps me company at night when I can't sleep.....

BARBARO...what a sad day,but happy in heaven!! Sending love to you and Fitch.....

##Martita sends her love to all,and she is working on finding the thieves that hurt dear Fitch.

##Shelley in Ca.--thank you for letting me know about dear Ernie...I will pray for Ernie(and check this out in forum) Got Cody,Mattie,Frank and Abercombie on my mind too! Those darling women,Jen and Tracy,who fought so hard for Fitch to live--if we feel as 'drained and saddened' as we do--just think about them!!! I always try to think about Mrs J,Mr J,Doc,Mr M,Brette,and Edgar..as I know their heartache must be so deep..all the way thro...

##Mary L,I love your Rosie cam pics with 'titles'..great work!!!!

Love to BARBARO,your magazine is just wonderful!
Love,
Linda A Or.

Can't sleep...what is happening with the horses rescued from CBER over the weekend. I just ran across some posts that alleged some pretty shady stuff. One being that the rescue sets the "bail" higher than it really is and keeps the difference. Another being the horses that have to go to quarantine have to pay board and that can be 350.00 per month - which is paid to the president of CBER. I might have been confused about this next point - I thought I read that once the horse has been bailed out and has to quarantine for 6 months (at donor expense) then the horse can be sold to a good home? What? Color me confused and a bit concerned - sure don't want any FsOB to get taken. Cant be right though eh? Can someone check it out? I have to work tomorrow or you won't see me ever again as the piles on my desk will tumble onto my head and surely kill me.

If this happens - let it be a lesson to all of you...don't leave your paperwork unsupervised in your office with the door shut for a week when you are sick. It multiplies and turns into enough paper to stuff a minivan (aka mom toaster).

Off to sleep... Good luck...hope we didn't get "taken"

PS...Ms Rosie - take your time dear...foal whenever...no body cares...fact is we are all planning a little get away - Kentucky, bluegrass. Sounds cool. Foals are allowed to go with their moms but Mares that can "foal at anytime" can't make the trip. Too bad...We'll buy you postcards. Just take your time sweetie. May I suggest a little reading to pass the time. War and Peace? Diagnostic Statistical Manual IV - for mental disorders? Not the whole book sweetie, just the section on disorders (like psychotic breaks) that are secondary to sleep deprivation. Do enjoy. We will see you in two weeks. You'll know it is us - we will have bluegrass in our teeth and we will smell just like heaven. Sorry you didn't have the baby in time to go.