Some more news from the Walking Horse Report. Glad to see the violations are being reported. Just would like to know who the violators are. Hopefully we will see them in the report FOSH publishes on their website.
My thoughts: SHOW is absolutely not out to make a change. They are out to continue to cover up the lies. It's hard to trust a group that is made up mostly of the same people who ran the NHSC, whom we couldn't trust either.
*******
Walking Horse Report
Thursday Night Inspection Results
Friday, June 05, 2009
Andy Messick, DQP Coordinator for the SHOW HIO released the following inspection results from the National Trainers' Show and Germantown Charity Horse Show on Thursday night (June 4, 2009). In Shelbyville at the Trainers' Show SHOW DQPs did not write a single violation out of the 87 entries presented for inspection. USDA VMOs wrote one unilateral sensitivity violation and also wrote a violation based on digital radiography results that showed a 6% rotation of the coffin bone. In Germantown, 16 horses were presented for inspection. SHOW DQPs wrote one unilateral sensitivity violation and wrote another horse on both a scar rule and bilateral sensitivity violation. USDA VMOs took information on these horses but didn't write any additional violations.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
NEWS - Communication with USDA
This is an exchange of letters between Dr. Chester Gipson, the Deputy Administrator for Animal Care with the USDA, and the Celebration/SHOW CEO Dr. Doyle Meadows. The letter was written following the Celebration's Spring Fun Show in response to that show. Dr. Meadows decided to publish both Dr. Gipson's letter and his own letter back at him. The letters are linked from the Tennessee Walking Horse Celebration website--click here for the link.
Click here for Dr. Gipson's letter.
Click here for Dr. Meadows' letter.
Unfortunately I can't post pdfs on the blog, otherwise I'd just save them here.
My thoughts: It is a bit shocking that in Section 6 (C) of the HPA, we can find this: "Whoever kills any person while engaged in or on account of the performance of his official duties under this Act shall be punishable as provided under...." KILLS. For the love of God, what does that tell us about the TWH industry? This should give everyone an idea of what we're truly dealing with here. If you don't believe there's something seriously wrong with the TWH industry, the fact that the HPA has to specifically call out penalties for anyone who kills a DQP should tell you.
THIS IS MADNESS.
Kudos to Dr. Gipson for sending the warning. Of course, I would love to see SHOW shut down since all it is is the NHSC with a new name. I think the rest of us can see that Dr. Meadows' letter is just a whining complaint. Here, a spoiled child who has continued to get away with bad behavior is finally being told NO, and he doesn't like it and is finding every excuse to fight it. He might as well walk into Dr. Gipson's office and throw himself on the floor and cry.
Click here for Dr. Gipson's letter.
Click here for Dr. Meadows' letter.
Unfortunately I can't post pdfs on the blog, otherwise I'd just save them here.
My thoughts: It is a bit shocking that in Section 6 (C) of the HPA, we can find this: "Whoever kills any person while engaged in or on account of the performance of his official duties under this Act shall be punishable as provided under...." KILLS. For the love of God, what does that tell us about the TWH industry? This should give everyone an idea of what we're truly dealing with here. If you don't believe there's something seriously wrong with the TWH industry, the fact that the HPA has to specifically call out penalties for anyone who kills a DQP should tell you.
THIS IS MADNESS.
Kudos to Dr. Gipson for sending the warning. Of course, I would love to see SHOW shut down since all it is is the NHSC with a new name. I think the rest of us can see that Dr. Meadows' letter is just a whining complaint. Here, a spoiled child who has continued to get away with bad behavior is finally being told NO, and he doesn't like it and is finding every excuse to fight it. He might as well walk into Dr. Gipson's office and throw himself on the floor and cry.
Monday, June 1, 2009
NEWS and ARTICLES - TWHBEA Warns of Tough Times Ahead
Another article from the Walking Horse Report. This time there is a request to the TWHBEA to perform a blind study to prove that the scars TWHs have on their legs are formed by the natural movement of the foot. What a crock of shit!!!!! I swear to God, that is the most ridiculous lie I have ever heard when it comes to soring. It's right up there with the lie that all TWHs have scars on their legs--check your colts in your pasture and you'll see them. Hmmm. How strange--every colt I have ever seen that was born to non-soring owners doesn't have scars at all!
Also of note is the following: Dean’s committee also presented to the board for approval the following statement. “The Board of Directors of TWHBEA is dedicated to the sound horse. We do not support practices in violation of the Horse Protection Act in the development and training of the horse. The Board of Directors supports the sound and compliant horse as one of the breed’s numerous disciplines.” This statement was approved by the board and will be publicized in literature and online at the TWHBEA web site. I had to shake my head at that one. Yet another load of crap that is being dumped into the overflowing pile that is what the TWHBEA continues to do. Until they stop having HPA violators as Board members and officers, I certainly will never believe in that statement.
Anyway, the madness continues. I'm glad TWHBEA is suffering. Now, part of it is in part to the economy, just because everyone is suffering right now. And honestly, I am sorry they had to suffer this way. However, they could have made changes to weather this storm a little better. Instead, they continued on, business as usual. They have had their chance to make changes and they won't, so now they're suffering because of it. Let's just hope they learn their lesson.
Keep up the good work, sound horse advocates! Let's keep the pressure on these guys and get soring and stacked horses permanently in our breed's past!
*******
Walking Horse Report - TWHBEA Warns of Tough Times Ahead
Friday, May 29, 2009 - By Jeffrey Howard - LEWISBURG, Tenn.
“We have the greatest horse in the world and we will survive it,” said Senior Vice President Robert Thomas. What will we survive? The forecast from the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ & Exhibitors’ Association (TWHBEA) is that tough times exist today and they will only get tougher in the coming years. Thomas pointed out the major sources of revenue for TWHBEA include membership, registrations, transfers and the Voice magazine. All are down and point to even greater declines in 2010.
The International Board of Directors for TWHBEA meet twice a year and the Saturday of the Fun Show in May hosts directors from all across the country, Canada and Europe. The board approved the 2008 annual audit, which showed a profit of $427,304 for 2008 versus a loss of $549,730 in 2007, a positive change of $977,034. The jump was made, however, in a reduction in expenses of $1,764,050. Revenue decline is a concern and 2008 saw revenues at $3,448,108, a decline of $787,016 from 2007.
The decline in revenue will continue in 2009. Mike Inman gave his report and pointed out the need to tweak budgets and find ways to cut even more expenses. “It is going to be worse next year and we will have to fight just to stay where we are,” said Inman. “We will have a negative at the end of the year of maybe $60,000 but we will do our best to end as close to flat as possible,” he concluded.
Year-to-date through April total revenue is at $1,007,447, down $194,254 versus budget and total expenses are $1,021,882, down $211,807 versus budget. The $14,436 loss year-to-date is better than the budgeted loss forecast by Inman and TWHBEA.
TWHBEA does have approximately $500,000 in cash reserves in addition to the futurity fund and commemorative garden fund, which equals about three months of operating expenses. Also, to prepare for the decline several employees have gone to a four-day work week, a net savings result of approximately one employee.
President David Pruett presided over the meeting and welcomed everyone in attendance. “We are facing difficult economic conditions as a country and we are still facing hard times as an association,” said Pruett. “It may get tougher in the days ahead.” Pruett did commend the entire staff and fellow executive committee members for their hard work and dedication to TWHBEA. Pruett stated that the commemorative garden initiative was back and accepting donations.
“I am proud of our sponsorship of the Sound Horse Conference this past March and look forward to being one again (in 2010),” said Pruett.
Thomas echoed Pruett’s comments about the tough economic times. “The facts are we are facing a period of time that we haven’t ever seen,” said Thomas. Thomas did commend the 2008 Executive Committee for its rescue of the association from potential bankruptcy as well as everyone being receptive to continued changes to allow TWHBEA to survive.
Stan Butt accepted a service award for five years with TWHBEA. “I am honored to say I have served for five years,” said Butt. Butt echoed the comments of Pruett and Thomas and told the board every measure possible is being done to help cut expenses. Butt commented on the reduced hours of the staff and the suspension of the cleaning service. Butt also spoke to the drastically reduced size of the Voice magazine. “We have done everything to keep revenue in line with expenses and the magazine does have a lot of information in it,” concluded Butt.
As is customary in international board meetings of TWHBEA, each vice president gives a report on their committee’s actions. Dee Dee Sale from Breeders’ reported that iPeds’s new release was activated May 5, 2009, and that it is a continued work in progress. Sale also spoke to the recently completed survey of the membership and announced the newly formed Master Breeders’ Award TWHBEA will give in the future. “This will be the most prestigious award given at TWHBEA,” said Walt Chism.
Bruce Vaughn gave the horse show report. Vaughn noted that the regional futurities have restructured criteria and the regionals will be capped at 10 and only one per state will be allowed. Also Vaughn and the Horse Show Division committee decided that to be eligible to show in the National Futurity, both the owner and exhibitor must be members of TWHBEA.
Vaughn also pled with the board to help horse shows whenever and wherever they can. “Horse shows all over are struggling and please donate what you can or we are going to lose our shows,” said Vaughn.
Kasey Kesselring from Marketing was unable to attend the meeting because of graduation at Montverde Academy but Chris Coffey gave the marketing report. Coffey said efforts for membership drives are being considered and spoke to upcoming projects such as podcasts and videos on the web site, new membership packets, TWHBEA’s 75th anniversary promotion, a branded view book and a shoeing video.
Kathy Zeis from Owners/Exhibitors updated the Go Gelding! program and spoke to the importance of programs for geldings and keeping them updated in the registry. Zeis has also secured 15 clinicians to come and head clinics during the Celebration.
Wayne Dean, Performance Horse, applauded the academy program. The academy program had 493 entries in six shows in 2009. The championship show had 97 entries. “The academy program is a great way to introduce beginners to our horse,” said Dean. Dean also urged shows to continue to add the Youth Challenge class to allow children to participate in the three-gaited class.
Dean’s committee also presented to the board for approval the following statement. “The Board of Directors of TWHBEA is dedicated to the sound horse. We do not support practices in violation of the Horse Protection Act in the development and training of the horse. The Board of Directors supports the sound and compliant horse as one of the breed’s numerous disciplines.” This statement was approved by the board and will be publicized in literature and online at the TWHBEA web site.
Diana McMurtrey is in full mode of preparing for the World Versatility Show. The event needs volunteers to help and McMurtrey called on the international board to consider volunteering at the show.
Chris Bobo gave the Training Division report. Bobo gave an impassioned plea to support the Tennessee Walking Horse and all aspects and disciplines of the horse. Bobo spoke to the Walking Horse Trainers’ Association enacting more thorough requirements to become licensed trainers. He also hit highlights of his committee’s work on brainstorming ideas to use science and education to showcase the walking horse, cost-cutting measures for trainers and continuing to enhance the Certified Riding Instructor program.
Debra Jack, Member-At-Large Bylaws, reviewed the proposed bylaw changes submitted to her committee and alerted the board members to the one change recommended that the Executive Committee had taken action on. The current bylaws call for one seat on the board for every 25 members and a corresponding member for every 175 thereafter. To help with international memberships the proposed bylaw change will have one seat on the board for the first 25 members, a second for the next 25 members and then one for every additional 175 members. This change would allow currently one additional director from Canada and Germany.
Jack also informed the board that a new operating division, Equine Welfare, will be active in 2010 and have a vice president. The purpose of the Equine Welfare Committee will be at the forefront of TWHBEA’s activities to develop and administer programs directed towards the protection of the welfare of Tennessee Walking Horses.
Christy Lantis, Member-At-Large Youth, keeps the youth very active within TWHBEA. Lantis announced that two youth scholarships will be named in honor of Lizzie Umberger and Chuck Cheek. Lantis also gave a synopsis of other projects working for the youth including the European Clothing Drive, web project, creative contests and camps at Montverde this summer.
During member comments, Tom Kakassy made a plea to TWHBEA to fund a blind study of the scar rule and its enforcement. “We are 10 years behind on doing this and TWHBEA needs to be the group to do this,” said Kakassy. He specifically charged TWHBEA to immediately sanction, arrange and finance a blind study, along the parameter of the Auburn study, the point of which is to determine whether callous formation, wrinkles and folds in the back of a horse’s foot are caused by soring or are an “indication of past abuse,” or whether they are caused by the natural action of the foot in this and other breeds.
The annual meeting will be held in December and the actions of the next six months will prove to be paramount as the association strives to maintain fiscal responsibility.
Also of note is the following: Dean’s committee also presented to the board for approval the following statement. “The Board of Directors of TWHBEA is dedicated to the sound horse. We do not support practices in violation of the Horse Protection Act in the development and training of the horse. The Board of Directors supports the sound and compliant horse as one of the breed’s numerous disciplines.” This statement was approved by the board and will be publicized in literature and online at the TWHBEA web site. I had to shake my head at that one. Yet another load of crap that is being dumped into the overflowing pile that is what the TWHBEA continues to do. Until they stop having HPA violators as Board members and officers, I certainly will never believe in that statement.
Anyway, the madness continues. I'm glad TWHBEA is suffering. Now, part of it is in part to the economy, just because everyone is suffering right now. And honestly, I am sorry they had to suffer this way. However, they could have made changes to weather this storm a little better. Instead, they continued on, business as usual. They have had their chance to make changes and they won't, so now they're suffering because of it. Let's just hope they learn their lesson.
Keep up the good work, sound horse advocates! Let's keep the pressure on these guys and get soring and stacked horses permanently in our breed's past!
*******
Walking Horse Report - TWHBEA Warns of Tough Times Ahead
Friday, May 29, 2009 - By Jeffrey Howard - LEWISBURG, Tenn.
“We have the greatest horse in the world and we will survive it,” said Senior Vice President Robert Thomas. What will we survive? The forecast from the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ & Exhibitors’ Association (TWHBEA) is that tough times exist today and they will only get tougher in the coming years. Thomas pointed out the major sources of revenue for TWHBEA include membership, registrations, transfers and the Voice magazine. All are down and point to even greater declines in 2010.
The International Board of Directors for TWHBEA meet twice a year and the Saturday of the Fun Show in May hosts directors from all across the country, Canada and Europe. The board approved the 2008 annual audit, which showed a profit of $427,304 for 2008 versus a loss of $549,730 in 2007, a positive change of $977,034. The jump was made, however, in a reduction in expenses of $1,764,050. Revenue decline is a concern and 2008 saw revenues at $3,448,108, a decline of $787,016 from 2007.
The decline in revenue will continue in 2009. Mike Inman gave his report and pointed out the need to tweak budgets and find ways to cut even more expenses. “It is going to be worse next year and we will have to fight just to stay where we are,” said Inman. “We will have a negative at the end of the year of maybe $60,000 but we will do our best to end as close to flat as possible,” he concluded.
Year-to-date through April total revenue is at $1,007,447, down $194,254 versus budget and total expenses are $1,021,882, down $211,807 versus budget. The $14,436 loss year-to-date is better than the budgeted loss forecast by Inman and TWHBEA.
TWHBEA does have approximately $500,000 in cash reserves in addition to the futurity fund and commemorative garden fund, which equals about three months of operating expenses. Also, to prepare for the decline several employees have gone to a four-day work week, a net savings result of approximately one employee.
President David Pruett presided over the meeting and welcomed everyone in attendance. “We are facing difficult economic conditions as a country and we are still facing hard times as an association,” said Pruett. “It may get tougher in the days ahead.” Pruett did commend the entire staff and fellow executive committee members for their hard work and dedication to TWHBEA. Pruett stated that the commemorative garden initiative was back and accepting donations.
“I am proud of our sponsorship of the Sound Horse Conference this past March and look forward to being one again (in 2010),” said Pruett.
Thomas echoed Pruett’s comments about the tough economic times. “The facts are we are facing a period of time that we haven’t ever seen,” said Thomas. Thomas did commend the 2008 Executive Committee for its rescue of the association from potential bankruptcy as well as everyone being receptive to continued changes to allow TWHBEA to survive.
Stan Butt accepted a service award for five years with TWHBEA. “I am honored to say I have served for five years,” said Butt. Butt echoed the comments of Pruett and Thomas and told the board every measure possible is being done to help cut expenses. Butt commented on the reduced hours of the staff and the suspension of the cleaning service. Butt also spoke to the drastically reduced size of the Voice magazine. “We have done everything to keep revenue in line with expenses and the magazine does have a lot of information in it,” concluded Butt.
As is customary in international board meetings of TWHBEA, each vice president gives a report on their committee’s actions. Dee Dee Sale from Breeders’ reported that iPeds’s new release was activated May 5, 2009, and that it is a continued work in progress. Sale also spoke to the recently completed survey of the membership and announced the newly formed Master Breeders’ Award TWHBEA will give in the future. “This will be the most prestigious award given at TWHBEA,” said Walt Chism.
Bruce Vaughn gave the horse show report. Vaughn noted that the regional futurities have restructured criteria and the regionals will be capped at 10 and only one per state will be allowed. Also Vaughn and the Horse Show Division committee decided that to be eligible to show in the National Futurity, both the owner and exhibitor must be members of TWHBEA.
Vaughn also pled with the board to help horse shows whenever and wherever they can. “Horse shows all over are struggling and please donate what you can or we are going to lose our shows,” said Vaughn.
Kasey Kesselring from Marketing was unable to attend the meeting because of graduation at Montverde Academy but Chris Coffey gave the marketing report. Coffey said efforts for membership drives are being considered and spoke to upcoming projects such as podcasts and videos on the web site, new membership packets, TWHBEA’s 75th anniversary promotion, a branded view book and a shoeing video.
Kathy Zeis from Owners/Exhibitors updated the Go Gelding! program and spoke to the importance of programs for geldings and keeping them updated in the registry. Zeis has also secured 15 clinicians to come and head clinics during the Celebration.
Wayne Dean, Performance Horse, applauded the academy program. The academy program had 493 entries in six shows in 2009. The championship show had 97 entries. “The academy program is a great way to introduce beginners to our horse,” said Dean. Dean also urged shows to continue to add the Youth Challenge class to allow children to participate in the three-gaited class.
Dean’s committee also presented to the board for approval the following statement. “The Board of Directors of TWHBEA is dedicated to the sound horse. We do not support practices in violation of the Horse Protection Act in the development and training of the horse. The Board of Directors supports the sound and compliant horse as one of the breed’s numerous disciplines.” This statement was approved by the board and will be publicized in literature and online at the TWHBEA web site.
Diana McMurtrey is in full mode of preparing for the World Versatility Show. The event needs volunteers to help and McMurtrey called on the international board to consider volunteering at the show.
Chris Bobo gave the Training Division report. Bobo gave an impassioned plea to support the Tennessee Walking Horse and all aspects and disciplines of the horse. Bobo spoke to the Walking Horse Trainers’ Association enacting more thorough requirements to become licensed trainers. He also hit highlights of his committee’s work on brainstorming ideas to use science and education to showcase the walking horse, cost-cutting measures for trainers and continuing to enhance the Certified Riding Instructor program.
Debra Jack, Member-At-Large Bylaws, reviewed the proposed bylaw changes submitted to her committee and alerted the board members to the one change recommended that the Executive Committee had taken action on. The current bylaws call for one seat on the board for every 25 members and a corresponding member for every 175 thereafter. To help with international memberships the proposed bylaw change will have one seat on the board for the first 25 members, a second for the next 25 members and then one for every additional 175 members. This change would allow currently one additional director from Canada and Germany.
Jack also informed the board that a new operating division, Equine Welfare, will be active in 2010 and have a vice president. The purpose of the Equine Welfare Committee will be at the forefront of TWHBEA’s activities to develop and administer programs directed towards the protection of the welfare of Tennessee Walking Horses.
Christy Lantis, Member-At-Large Youth, keeps the youth very active within TWHBEA. Lantis announced that two youth scholarships will be named in honor of Lizzie Umberger and Chuck Cheek. Lantis also gave a synopsis of other projects working for the youth including the European Clothing Drive, web project, creative contests and camps at Montverde this summer.
During member comments, Tom Kakassy made a plea to TWHBEA to fund a blind study of the scar rule and its enforcement. “We are 10 years behind on doing this and TWHBEA needs to be the group to do this,” said Kakassy. He specifically charged TWHBEA to immediately sanction, arrange and finance a blind study, along the parameter of the Auburn study, the point of which is to determine whether callous formation, wrinkles and folds in the back of a horse’s foot are caused by soring or are an “indication of past abuse,” or whether they are caused by the natural action of the foot in this and other breeds.
The annual meeting will be held in December and the actions of the next six months will prove to be paramount as the association strives to maintain fiscal responsibility.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
New Video from the HSUS
Check the above new video from HSUS, or go to http://video.hsus.org/ and look at the "Horses Mutilated For Show" video. I do know that the video evidence is from the 2008 Celebration. Note the horse that is laying down in it's stall and tries to get up. That animal is in serious pain.
This video really says it all.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Walking Horse Shows
Hello all. I have been meaning to post about this website that I think folks might be interested in. It's called Walking Horse World and is a website for watching shows and information on flat-shod horse shows. Now, I will be honest--I can imagine that there are some sore horse shows in here because we all know that the flat-shod horses can be sored just as bad as the BL horses are, if not worse. However, there are some sound horse venues and shows being showcased, so be sure to look out for those. It also has forums, for sale pages, lots of stuff.
Also, I have gotten word that several shows in the past couple of months have been visited by the USDA in force. I hate posting stuff that I don't have solid proof on, but I imagine that this is being kept hush-hush to try to keep it out of the news. So note that these aren't solid facts--they are only what I've heard through the grapevine. It's a pretty solid grapevine, though--almost from the horse's mouth itself!
One was a show over the weekend of April 9 in Jackson, and the other was over the weekend of April 16 in Harrodsburg, KY. Apparently, at the Jackson show, they had 18 USDA employees there along with four Federal Marshals. My guess is that the Marshals were there for protection for the USDA folks. There were people who left the show grounds without showing, and the most any class had in entries on the 9th were three horses. In Harrodsburg, there were five carloads of USDA DQPs, VMOs, and KY police. Most people packed up and left; only about 8 to 10 horses showed. At both shows, many tickets were issued and the USDA had the thermographer and other equipment with them.
That's all I know. If anyone can verify this information and send me proof of it, that would be awesome! Thanks!
Also, I have gotten word that several shows in the past couple of months have been visited by the USDA in force. I hate posting stuff that I don't have solid proof on, but I imagine that this is being kept hush-hush to try to keep it out of the news. So note that these aren't solid facts--they are only what I've heard through the grapevine. It's a pretty solid grapevine, though--almost from the horse's mouth itself!
One was a show over the weekend of April 9 in Jackson, and the other was over the weekend of April 16 in Harrodsburg, KY. Apparently, at the Jackson show, they had 18 USDA employees there along with four Federal Marshals. My guess is that the Marshals were there for protection for the USDA folks. There were people who left the show grounds without showing, and the most any class had in entries on the 9th were three horses. In Harrodsburg, there were five carloads of USDA DQPs, VMOs, and KY police. Most people packed up and left; only about 8 to 10 horses showed. At both shows, many tickets were issued and the USDA had the thermographer and other equipment with them.
That's all I know. If anyone can verify this information and send me proof of it, that would be awesome! Thanks!
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
IMPORTANT - REAL EVIDENCE THAT SORING IS STILL COMMONPLACE
Click here for the Confidential Interviews about Soring from the 2009 Sound Horse Conference.
This is incredible information. Be sure to take the time to watch the interviews and read the transcripts if you can. The below is the description of these interviews from the Sound Horse Conference 2009 information. I think it best describes why these interviews were done and the process used.
Confidential Interviews about Soring Process Described:
Our goal for the Sound Horse Conference 2009 is to reinforce and accelerate the pressures being brought to bear to end the abusive practice of soring. Soring has been called one of the most significant welfare issues affecting any equine breed or discipline by the AAEP. That’s the association of 10,000 equine veterinarians in this country. Soring is the intentional infliction of pain, from chemical and mechanical means, to create an exaggerated gait in show horses for the purpose of winning.
There is no one in this room who would argue that soring is acceptable. There is no-one in the entire Tennessee Walking Horse industry who would suggest publically that soring is acceptable. Soring has been federally illegal for almost 40 years.
And it is denied by many in the Tennessee Walking horse industry that soring is still a common practice. Many press releases, articles, and websites claim that the vast majority of show Tennessee Walking Horses are not sored. Do you believe that? Our first presentation, Current Soring Practices, was developed to help you answer that question. Let’s dedicate this Conference, and focus our combined energies after these two days, to bring an true end to this abuse. Remember why we are doing this: for the horses, those mute, sensitive, affectionate and trusting animals who cannot defend themselves against these tortures.
And now, as we begin the Conference, I will tell you the background of this first presentation. We reached out to 12 people involved with Tennessee Walking Horses and asked for their help in contacting any sources they might know with personal involvement in soring. The basis for this project was complete anonymity.
The only way the people interviewed would agree to speak to us was if a double-blind interview was used. This would ensure that no one recognized their names nor their voices. Each source called into a conference line at their pre-scheduled time, and was questioned by a prominent attorney who has over 12 years of involvement in Horse Protection Act issues. The conference calls were recorded, and transcribed by a professional service. Interviews were conducted with padded and flat shod show horse owners, a world champion trainer, show judges, show exhibitors, and farriers. And the end of this process, the attorney who conducted the interviews stated, “The people you identified to have me interview… had terrific knowledge, and although their perspectives on the issue were all somewhat different, it's clear that soring remains a constant and institutionalized blight on the TWH breed.”
Each of the sources understood that their call was being recorded, and no sources received any compensation. The transcripts were condensed from 8 hours of interview time into what you are going to hear today and tomorrow, read by professional voices to protect all identities.
To those of you who stepped up to perform these interviews: I SALUTE YOU. You are right to make a difference and a change in the lives of your horses and yourselves. I hope that you understand that many people will forgive you for what you've done when you make this kind of a change.
Honestly, I cannot imagine how those of you who continue to do this can continue to lie about it. WE KNOW WHAT'S GOING ON. I plead with you to change. I don't care of you have a change of heart or not--stop the chemicals, the chains, the pads, the plastic, the pantyhose, the pressure shoeing, and the madness. You can get quality training just by basic proper exercise. I've found that it's a lot easier than one might think. Hell, I don't care if you use a slightly heavier shoe for weight. Just stop the pain these majestic creatures continue to go through. If you truly believed in the breed, you would stop making it look so bad.
Judges, stop rewarding animation. Stop allowing your ideas to be influenced by criminals. Start making a difference.
May God have mercy on the horses and no mercy on those who continue to perpetuate this abuse and do nothing about it.
This is incredible information. Be sure to take the time to watch the interviews and read the transcripts if you can. The below is the description of these interviews from the Sound Horse Conference 2009 information. I think it best describes why these interviews were done and the process used.
Confidential Interviews about Soring Process Described:
Our goal for the Sound Horse Conference 2009 is to reinforce and accelerate the pressures being brought to bear to end the abusive practice of soring. Soring has been called one of the most significant welfare issues affecting any equine breed or discipline by the AAEP. That’s the association of 10,000 equine veterinarians in this country. Soring is the intentional infliction of pain, from chemical and mechanical means, to create an exaggerated gait in show horses for the purpose of winning.
There is no one in this room who would argue that soring is acceptable. There is no-one in the entire Tennessee Walking Horse industry who would suggest publically that soring is acceptable. Soring has been federally illegal for almost 40 years.
And it is denied by many in the Tennessee Walking horse industry that soring is still a common practice. Many press releases, articles, and websites claim that the vast majority of show Tennessee Walking Horses are not sored. Do you believe that? Our first presentation, Current Soring Practices, was developed to help you answer that question. Let’s dedicate this Conference, and focus our combined energies after these two days, to bring an true end to this abuse. Remember why we are doing this: for the horses, those mute, sensitive, affectionate and trusting animals who cannot defend themselves against these tortures.
And now, as we begin the Conference, I will tell you the background of this first presentation. We reached out to 12 people involved with Tennessee Walking Horses and asked for their help in contacting any sources they might know with personal involvement in soring. The basis for this project was complete anonymity.
The only way the people interviewed would agree to speak to us was if a double-blind interview was used. This would ensure that no one recognized their names nor their voices. Each source called into a conference line at their pre-scheduled time, and was questioned by a prominent attorney who has over 12 years of involvement in Horse Protection Act issues. The conference calls were recorded, and transcribed by a professional service. Interviews were conducted with padded and flat shod show horse owners, a world champion trainer, show judges, show exhibitors, and farriers. And the end of this process, the attorney who conducted the interviews stated, “The people you identified to have me interview… had terrific knowledge, and although their perspectives on the issue were all somewhat different, it's clear that soring remains a constant and institutionalized blight on the TWH breed.”
Each of the sources understood that their call was being recorded, and no sources received any compensation. The transcripts were condensed from 8 hours of interview time into what you are going to hear today and tomorrow, read by professional voices to protect all identities.
To those of you who stepped up to perform these interviews: I SALUTE YOU. You are right to make a difference and a change in the lives of your horses and yourselves. I hope that you understand that many people will forgive you for what you've done when you make this kind of a change.
Honestly, I cannot imagine how those of you who continue to do this can continue to lie about it. WE KNOW WHAT'S GOING ON. I plead with you to change. I don't care of you have a change of heart or not--stop the chemicals, the chains, the pads, the plastic, the pantyhose, the pressure shoeing, and the madness. You can get quality training just by basic proper exercise. I've found that it's a lot easier than one might think. Hell, I don't care if you use a slightly heavier shoe for weight. Just stop the pain these majestic creatures continue to go through. If you truly believed in the breed, you would stop making it look so bad.
Judges, stop rewarding animation. Stop allowing your ideas to be influenced by criminals. Start making a difference.
May God have mercy on the horses and no mercy on those who continue to perpetuate this abuse and do nothing about it.
Monday, April 20, 2009
USDA Needs Our Support Follow Up
Here's a follow-up email I received this evening. Yet another important step to letting the gov't know that we support their decision and to keep the bad guys OUT! You can use this web address to contact your Congressional representative: https://writerep.house.gov/writerep/welcome.shtml
*******
Hello Sound Horse Supporters,
Since my first email this a.m., I have learned that the dark side is posting requests on many of their message boards that the USDA and congressional reps should be contacted to complain about the USDA stepping up inspections. I have a feeling the USDA is receiving hundreds of emails from them.
So, in addition to contacting the USDA to let them know you support enhanced inspections and sound horses in the show ring, we feel it would be helpful to contact the White House and your federal representatives.
The White House has a form at this website: http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/
Some congressional reps can be contacted via email and others require completion of a form. Usually a few seconds of researching on Google provides the appropriate email address and format.
Thanking you in advance for taking the time to send messages to the USDA and reps. We know you do not want to be contacted with numerous email requests; however, when the situation is urgent and your emails will help, we realize you want to be informed.
*******
Hello Sound Horse Supporters,
Since my first email this a.m., I have learned that the dark side is posting requests on many of their message boards that the USDA and congressional reps should be contacted to complain about the USDA stepping up inspections. I have a feeling the USDA is receiving hundreds of emails from them.
So, in addition to contacting the USDA to let them know you support enhanced inspections and sound horses in the show ring, we feel it would be helpful to contact the White House and your federal representatives.
The White House has a form at this website: http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/
Some congressional reps can be contacted via email and others require completion of a form. Usually a few seconds of researching on Google provides the appropriate email address and format.
Thanking you in advance for taking the time to send messages to the USDA and reps. We know you do not want to be contacted with numerous email requests; however, when the situation is urgent and your emails will help, we realize you want to be informed.
The USDA Needs Our Support
I'm sure that by now, most of you out there know that the USDA is now requiring that all horses that come to the DQP for inspection be unsaddled. This is because another way to steward the TWHs so they don't react to palpation is to put metal bit burrs or alligator clips on their skin underneath the saddles or the girths. This causes them redirected pain, because if they move it makes things worse. So they don't flinch when being palpated. DQPs are also checking in the horses' mouths to check for alligator clips or any other foreign body in there, also used for stewarding.
Sure, it's a pain in the ass, and yes, I've heard people complain about it. But I think this is a great idea. Step up the enforcement, and do it any way deemed necessary. If we don't comply or complain, then we are only allowing the bad guys to continue to get away with this stuff.
Of course, with change comes great resistance, and of course the sore horse community is up in arms. Here's an email I received today. I hope all of you will take the time to write to these folks and let them know that we support them.
**********
Hello Sound Horse Supporters,
As many of you are aware, the USDA has dramatically stepped up the procedures for inspections in 2009 (no scars at all, use of thermography, use of sniffer, saddleless inspections, etc.). Many people on the dark side are unhappy about this and attempting to convince the USDA that inspections are unfair, abuse of power, overreaching, etc. Some are also contacting their political representatives to ask that they step in and stop the USDA.
If you have the opportunity to email the USDA in support of their stepped up procedures to eliminate the scarred and sore horse from the show ring, that would be great. Remember, they need to hear from both sides and not just the dark side. The individuals to contact are
Dr. Chester A. Gipson - Chester.A.Gipson@aphis.usda.gov
Kevin A. Shea (Mr. Shea is Dr. Gibson's manager) - kevin.a.shea@usda.gov
Andrea M. Morgan - Andrea.M.Morgan@aphis.usda.gov
Dr. Rachel Cezar - Rachel.Cezar@aphis.usda.gov
In addition, if you would like more detail on the USDA's actions and plans for 2009, the audio recording of Dr. Cezar's presentation at the Sound Horse Conference is on that website: www.soundhorseconference.com It is extremely informative and you will learn quite a bit about their step up in enforcement for this year. Click on the "2009 Conference" link and then click on "Future Plans of the USDA."
On another note, please feel free to forward this message to those that are interested in supporting the sound horse. We need their voices to be heard.
If writing is not your "thing", here is some sample language:
First Variation
I am writing to thank you for your continued work in keeping sore horses out of the show ring. I realize that some exhibitors are complaining that the inspection process may take slightly longer; however, as an opponent of soring, these procedures are more than worthwhile.
Please keep up the good work and know that many sound horse owners fully support your actions. As a sound horse owner, I hope to be able to compete on a level playing field in 2009, knowing that no scarred or sore horses are making it into the ring.
Another Variation
I commend the USDA on the strong position that has been taken recently in defending Tennessee Walking Horses from the abuses of soring with your current inspection standards and inspection process.
Please stand strong against any criticisms of your inspection procedures and decisions about scarring. I want the Horse Protection Act vigorously enforced so that there are no scarred and sore horses in the show ring ever again.
Another Variation
Dear APHIS,
Thank you so much for your unit's strong enforcement of the Horse Protection Act. I am a proud owner of sound Walking Horses. I am looking forward to the day when I don't have to caveat that ownership with a statement that I don't abuse them and have nothing to do with soring, etc. Thank you for bringing that day ever nearer!!
Sure, it's a pain in the ass, and yes, I've heard people complain about it. But I think this is a great idea. Step up the enforcement, and do it any way deemed necessary. If we don't comply or complain, then we are only allowing the bad guys to continue to get away with this stuff.
Of course, with change comes great resistance, and of course the sore horse community is up in arms. Here's an email I received today. I hope all of you will take the time to write to these folks and let them know that we support them.
**********
Hello Sound Horse Supporters,
As many of you are aware, the USDA has dramatically stepped up the procedures for inspections in 2009 (no scars at all, use of thermography, use of sniffer, saddleless inspections, etc.). Many people on the dark side are unhappy about this and attempting to convince the USDA that inspections are unfair, abuse of power, overreaching, etc. Some are also contacting their political representatives to ask that they step in and stop the USDA.
If you have the opportunity to email the USDA in support of their stepped up procedures to eliminate the scarred and sore horse from the show ring, that would be great. Remember, they need to hear from both sides and not just the dark side. The individuals to contact are
Dr. Chester A. Gipson - Chester.A.Gipson@aphis.usda.gov
Kevin A. Shea (Mr. Shea is Dr. Gibson's manager) - kevin.a.shea@usda.gov
Andrea M. Morgan - Andrea.M.Morgan@aphis.usda.gov
Dr. Rachel Cezar - Rachel.Cezar@aphis.usda.gov
In addition, if you would like more detail on the USDA's actions and plans for 2009, the audio recording of Dr. Cezar's presentation at the Sound Horse Conference is on that website: www.soundhorseconference.com It is extremely informative and you will learn quite a bit about their step up in enforcement for this year. Click on the "2009 Conference" link and then click on "Future Plans of the USDA."
On another note, please feel free to forward this message to those that are interested in supporting the sound horse. We need their voices to be heard.
If writing is not your "thing", here is some sample language:
First Variation
I am writing to thank you for your continued work in keeping sore horses out of the show ring. I realize that some exhibitors are complaining that the inspection process may take slightly longer; however, as an opponent of soring, these procedures are more than worthwhile.
Please keep up the good work and know that many sound horse owners fully support your actions. As a sound horse owner, I hope to be able to compete on a level playing field in 2009, knowing that no scarred or sore horses are making it into the ring.
Another Variation
I commend the USDA on the strong position that has been taken recently in defending Tennessee Walking Horses from the abuses of soring with your current inspection standards and inspection process.
Please stand strong against any criticisms of your inspection procedures and decisions about scarring. I want the Horse Protection Act vigorously enforced so that there are no scarred and sore horses in the show ring ever again.
Another Variation
Dear APHIS,
Thank you so much for your unit's strong enforcement of the Horse Protection Act. I am a proud owner of sound Walking Horses. I am looking forward to the day when I don't have to caveat that ownership with a statement that I don't abuse them and have nothing to do with soring, etc. Thank you for bringing that day ever nearer!!
Thursday, March 19, 2009
ARTICLE and NEWS - NHSC Votes to Dissolve
I received this article via email from the Walking Horse Report. I'm not a member, but I received the information anyway. I'm glad they sent it to me. My thoughts on this decision are below the article.
-------------------------
NHSC Votes To Dissolve
Copyright 2009 WHR
By Jeffrey Howard
SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. – The National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) Board of Directors unanimously voted today to dissolve the NHSC and turn over the assets of the NHSC to SHOW, the Horse Industry Organization (HIO) of The Celebration, Inc. The NHSC board consists of Chairman Link Webb, David Landrum, Steve Hankins and Jamie Hankins from the Walking Horse Trainers’ Association (WHTA). Representing the Walking Horse Owners’ Association (WHOA) are Frank Neal, David Pruett, Mark Farrar and Bob Medina.
The meeting began with Medina participating via a conference call. There was a question raised regarding his physical presence being required to vote. After a brief discussion and review of the bylaws, it was determined that Medina would be allowed to participate via conference call and cast his vote. Alternates were on hand and would have been able to sit in his place
Several questions were raised by Farrar including the timeline for the transfer to take place, the status of contracts, the status of suspensions and how to dissolve a corporation in Tennessee. Per the contract question, all horse shows that have affiliated with the NHSC will still be affiliated and after the transfer will become affiliated with the SHOW HIO. Those horse shows that would like to change affiliations will be allowed to do so.
Also, the contract with the Kentucky HIO that allows the sharing of judges of both the NHSC and Kentucky HIO will have to be renegotiated by SHOW. Landrum informed the board that the Kentucky HIO is willing to continue this agreement with the new HIO.
After the parameters were established the new business came to the floor and the members of the NHSC had a very intense discussion. “We need to make sure we do this correct. We have been here a long time and we need to be careful how we do this,” said Landrum. “The NHSC has been here a long time and done its job,” said Webb. “However it is time for this industry to make a change,” concluded Webb.
Steve Hankins joined in, “It is very important that we have lots of communication with the new HIO so that WHTA and WHOA are kept informed of the progress.”
There has been some confusion on the dissolution of the NHSC before SHOW has agreed to assume the responsibilities of the NHSC. “It is my understanding that SHOW will not vote on this until all of our groups (WHOA, WHTA and NHSC) have decided this is what we want,” said Webb.
“There is no assurance to this day that SHOW will agree to do this,” said Neal. The Celebration board has met once in an information session and has also participated in some capacity on the WHOA conference calls and meetings. It is assumed in the industry that SHOW will begin work immediately to activate its HIO and be affiliating horse shows as soon as possible.
Medina made one last plea to the board to keep the judging and rule book under “NHSC (B)” and allow the functions of the HIO and compliance to move to SHOW. This idea was rejected by the other members of the board that felt it was best SHOW assume all responsibilities. “We either need to do it all or none,” said Webb.
The next topic was that of the monies and how they would be distributed after dissolution. The NHSC has a checking account with $71,118 and a CD with $40,000. Neal and the others felt that monies contributed by WHOA and WHTA should be returned to those respective groups. All affiliation fees should be transferred to SHOW. Year-to-date 73 horse shows and sales have affiliated with the NHSC.
The NHSC board felt that a $5,000 amount should also be transferred to SHOW as seed money in addition to all affiliation fees. Past due amounts from 2007 and 2008 will become the property of WHOA and WHTA once they are collected. The past due amounts from these years totals almost $30,000.
Kim Bennett raised the question of assets loaned to the NHSC and whether they would be transferred to SHOW. It was agreed that no assets not owned by the NHSC could be transferred. Bennett also asked about show records. “It is my assumption that the show records would go to SHOW,” concluded Webb.
A short recess was taken and upon the return of the members the final motion was made to dissolve the NHSC by Medina and seconded by Landrum. It read as follows:
“I make a motion to dissolve the NHSC effective on a date specified by Dr. Meadows in a notice to WHOA President Frank Neal and WHTA President Link Webb.
I further move that all employees of the NHSC become the employees of SHOW at the same salary and benefits effective on the same date of Dr. Meadows’ notification.
I further move that all records, equipment and all other assets and supplies of the NHSC other than the excess cash over amounts paid by future show affiliations less $5,000, other than all accounts receivable arising from shows already completed become the property of SHOW for a payment of $1 by SHOW on the same date of Dr. Meadows’ notification.
I further move that all liabilities of the NHSC including the lease on its office be assumed on the effective date of Dr. Meadows’ notification.
I further move that all contracts arising out of any show affiliations will be assumed and honored by SHOW effective on the date of Dr. Meadows’ notification. And until the notification date, the NHSC will perform all the necessary duties to all shows that affiliated with the NHSC.
I move that upon dissolution of the NHSC that any funds remaining in the NHSC be divided 50/50 between the WHT and WHOA.”
The vote was taken by roll call and all eight members voted in favor of the motion. “This is tough to give up. I have been here a long time and remember the days in the basement. We probably need a prayer session that we have done the right thing, but I think we have,” said Landrum. He continued, “We don’t need more HIOs, we need to pull together and take a new direction. If you think this business isn’t hurting, then you aren’t in the same position I am. We are shrinking in credibility and market share and I can promise you that whether this is right or not, the intent is to do the right thing. This can make WHOA, WHTA and TWHBEA stronger organizations. We can all focus on what we do best.”
Neal gave his summary as well. “I’ve always thought the NHSC was doing a good job. It’s had its faults over the years as will the new one (HIO). This isn’t my livelihood but it is scary to me to think how this has been done without everyone sitting at a table and hashing it out. However the makeup of the WHOA board is a lot of your (Trainers) customers and this is what we have voted to do. When the board votes 19-6, I have to vote the wishes of the board. I hope it is the right thing because if it is not, this could be the beginning of the end for the padded horse. You have given up a lot, almost everything and I hope you will be able to live with it. Anything I can do to make it work better, I am happy to do it,” said Neal.
Webb joined in, “There are no guarantees. At this point the industry is not going anywhere for whatever reason. Every day for the last two years I have heard the same thing, the trainers need to get out of the compliance of the industry. I think we are making the right decision and taking a hell of a step. We took a hell of step in the 1970s when we started checking the horses and today we make this step to help the industry strive more. If we will stand together as WHOA and WHTA it will make us stronger.”
A historic day is upon us and the industry will enter into another phase of its long and successful history. The Tennessee Walking Horse is one of the greatest breeds in the world and today’s vote is taken in an attempt to gain the attention and credibility this horse deserves. As many stated in the meeting, there are no guarantees and this signals only the beginning, but therein lies the key phrase; this is the beginning.
The industry finds itself at a crossroads and the trainers and owners have made some very difficult decisions they feel will position the industry to move forward. This next transition period may be difficult, but decisions such as today’s are best made for the long-term success of the breed.
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration will now vote to decide its course of action as well as the timeline for the transfer. It is assumed that the Celebration will vote to take on the task of activating its HIO, implement an independent oversight board and move the transition along as quickly as possible.
------------------------
What I see here is that they're only switching the HIO as to where the rulebook is going to be governed. I don't see this making a big difference in the long run. We know that the WHTA is full of those who continue to sore their horses and support those who sore, so they are going to do things just to try to make themselves look better. I agree that there need to be less HIOs, and dissolving the NHSC is a good move. But I don't believe that the move is being made to help the horse. It's being made to make WHTA look good on the surface, but it's just another ploy to further their insane need to continue to abuse animals for profit.
I also understand that WHOA was originally founded to help eliminate the sore horse. However, the sore horse industry bullied WHOA into allowing sore horses in with their usual money bribes. WHOA is not it's own entity anymore--it is really run by those who are corrupt within the industry, just another group that's been bullied and cannonized. Neal said in his quote that WHOA is made up of the WHTA's customers, so of course they're going to do what makes them money and keeps things status quo.
I agree with what many people have said in response to this news: put the rulebook with the breed registry like all other breed registries do and dissolve all HIOs that support the Big Lick and carry their own rulebooks. This decision is not a step in any direction, backwards or forwards, just a continued move in the fight to keep the sore horse in the ring. May the USDA see right through these jerks and be out in force at WHOA and SHOW affilated shows.
-------------------------
NHSC Votes To Dissolve
Copyright 2009 WHR
By Jeffrey Howard
SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. – The National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) Board of Directors unanimously voted today to dissolve the NHSC and turn over the assets of the NHSC to SHOW, the Horse Industry Organization (HIO) of The Celebration, Inc. The NHSC board consists of Chairman Link Webb, David Landrum, Steve Hankins and Jamie Hankins from the Walking Horse Trainers’ Association (WHTA). Representing the Walking Horse Owners’ Association (WHOA) are Frank Neal, David Pruett, Mark Farrar and Bob Medina.
The meeting began with Medina participating via a conference call. There was a question raised regarding his physical presence being required to vote. After a brief discussion and review of the bylaws, it was determined that Medina would be allowed to participate via conference call and cast his vote. Alternates were on hand and would have been able to sit in his place
Several questions were raised by Farrar including the timeline for the transfer to take place, the status of contracts, the status of suspensions and how to dissolve a corporation in Tennessee. Per the contract question, all horse shows that have affiliated with the NHSC will still be affiliated and after the transfer will become affiliated with the SHOW HIO. Those horse shows that would like to change affiliations will be allowed to do so.
Also, the contract with the Kentucky HIO that allows the sharing of judges of both the NHSC and Kentucky HIO will have to be renegotiated by SHOW. Landrum informed the board that the Kentucky HIO is willing to continue this agreement with the new HIO.
After the parameters were established the new business came to the floor and the members of the NHSC had a very intense discussion. “We need to make sure we do this correct. We have been here a long time and we need to be careful how we do this,” said Landrum. “The NHSC has been here a long time and done its job,” said Webb. “However it is time for this industry to make a change,” concluded Webb.
Steve Hankins joined in, “It is very important that we have lots of communication with the new HIO so that WHTA and WHOA are kept informed of the progress.”
There has been some confusion on the dissolution of the NHSC before SHOW has agreed to assume the responsibilities of the NHSC. “It is my understanding that SHOW will not vote on this until all of our groups (WHOA, WHTA and NHSC) have decided this is what we want,” said Webb.
“There is no assurance to this day that SHOW will agree to do this,” said Neal. The Celebration board has met once in an information session and has also participated in some capacity on the WHOA conference calls and meetings. It is assumed in the industry that SHOW will begin work immediately to activate its HIO and be affiliating horse shows as soon as possible.
Medina made one last plea to the board to keep the judging and rule book under “NHSC (B)” and allow the functions of the HIO and compliance to move to SHOW. This idea was rejected by the other members of the board that felt it was best SHOW assume all responsibilities. “We either need to do it all or none,” said Webb.
The next topic was that of the monies and how they would be distributed after dissolution. The NHSC has a checking account with $71,118 and a CD with $40,000. Neal and the others felt that monies contributed by WHOA and WHTA should be returned to those respective groups. All affiliation fees should be transferred to SHOW. Year-to-date 73 horse shows and sales have affiliated with the NHSC.
The NHSC board felt that a $5,000 amount should also be transferred to SHOW as seed money in addition to all affiliation fees. Past due amounts from 2007 and 2008 will become the property of WHOA and WHTA once they are collected. The past due amounts from these years totals almost $30,000.
Kim Bennett raised the question of assets loaned to the NHSC and whether they would be transferred to SHOW. It was agreed that no assets not owned by the NHSC could be transferred. Bennett also asked about show records. “It is my assumption that the show records would go to SHOW,” concluded Webb.
A short recess was taken and upon the return of the members the final motion was made to dissolve the NHSC by Medina and seconded by Landrum. It read as follows:
“I make a motion to dissolve the NHSC effective on a date specified by Dr. Meadows in a notice to WHOA President Frank Neal and WHTA President Link Webb.
I further move that all employees of the NHSC become the employees of SHOW at the same salary and benefits effective on the same date of Dr. Meadows’ notification.
I further move that all records, equipment and all other assets and supplies of the NHSC other than the excess cash over amounts paid by future show affiliations less $5,000, other than all accounts receivable arising from shows already completed become the property of SHOW for a payment of $1 by SHOW on the same date of Dr. Meadows’ notification.
I further move that all liabilities of the NHSC including the lease on its office be assumed on the effective date of Dr. Meadows’ notification.
I further move that all contracts arising out of any show affiliations will be assumed and honored by SHOW effective on the date of Dr. Meadows’ notification. And until the notification date, the NHSC will perform all the necessary duties to all shows that affiliated with the NHSC.
I move that upon dissolution of the NHSC that any funds remaining in the NHSC be divided 50/50 between the WHT and WHOA.”
The vote was taken by roll call and all eight members voted in favor of the motion. “This is tough to give up. I have been here a long time and remember the days in the basement. We probably need a prayer session that we have done the right thing, but I think we have,” said Landrum. He continued, “We don’t need more HIOs, we need to pull together and take a new direction. If you think this business isn’t hurting, then you aren’t in the same position I am. We are shrinking in credibility and market share and I can promise you that whether this is right or not, the intent is to do the right thing. This can make WHOA, WHTA and TWHBEA stronger organizations. We can all focus on what we do best.”
Neal gave his summary as well. “I’ve always thought the NHSC was doing a good job. It’s had its faults over the years as will the new one (HIO). This isn’t my livelihood but it is scary to me to think how this has been done without everyone sitting at a table and hashing it out. However the makeup of the WHOA board is a lot of your (Trainers) customers and this is what we have voted to do. When the board votes 19-6, I have to vote the wishes of the board. I hope it is the right thing because if it is not, this could be the beginning of the end for the padded horse. You have given up a lot, almost everything and I hope you will be able to live with it. Anything I can do to make it work better, I am happy to do it,” said Neal.
Webb joined in, “There are no guarantees. At this point the industry is not going anywhere for whatever reason. Every day for the last two years I have heard the same thing, the trainers need to get out of the compliance of the industry. I think we are making the right decision and taking a hell of a step. We took a hell of step in the 1970s when we started checking the horses and today we make this step to help the industry strive more. If we will stand together as WHOA and WHTA it will make us stronger.”
A historic day is upon us and the industry will enter into another phase of its long and successful history. The Tennessee Walking Horse is one of the greatest breeds in the world and today’s vote is taken in an attempt to gain the attention and credibility this horse deserves. As many stated in the meeting, there are no guarantees and this signals only the beginning, but therein lies the key phrase; this is the beginning.
The industry finds itself at a crossroads and the trainers and owners have made some very difficult decisions they feel will position the industry to move forward. This next transition period may be difficult, but decisions such as today’s are best made for the long-term success of the breed.
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration will now vote to decide its course of action as well as the timeline for the transfer. It is assumed that the Celebration will vote to take on the task of activating its HIO, implement an independent oversight board and move the transition along as quickly as possible.
------------------------
What I see here is that they're only switching the HIO as to where the rulebook is going to be governed. I don't see this making a big difference in the long run. We know that the WHTA is full of those who continue to sore their horses and support those who sore, so they are going to do things just to try to make themselves look better. I agree that there need to be less HIOs, and dissolving the NHSC is a good move. But I don't believe that the move is being made to help the horse. It's being made to make WHTA look good on the surface, but it's just another ploy to further their insane need to continue to abuse animals for profit.
I also understand that WHOA was originally founded to help eliminate the sore horse. However, the sore horse industry bullied WHOA into allowing sore horses in with their usual money bribes. WHOA is not it's own entity anymore--it is really run by those who are corrupt within the industry, just another group that's been bullied and cannonized. Neal said in his quote that WHOA is made up of the WHTA's customers, so of course they're going to do what makes them money and keeps things status quo.
I agree with what many people have said in response to this news: put the rulebook with the breed registry like all other breed registries do and dissolve all HIOs that support the Big Lick and carry their own rulebooks. This decision is not a step in any direction, backwards or forwards, just a continued move in the fight to keep the sore horse in the ring. May the USDA see right through these jerks and be out in force at WHOA and SHOW affilated shows.
Friday, March 13, 2009
ARTICLE and NEWS - LET THE HORSES TALK: USDA draws a line in the sand
I hadn't posted this information yet because I had only heard about it through speculations. Now the info has been released to the public and we're seeing some real progress.
The USDA is out in force and working hard, and perhaps something is going to break free. Let's hope it's the horses and that they break free of the chains and contraptions that are ruining this breed. There seems to be a light at the end of this very black and bleak tunnel.
Marshall County Tribune: Story:
Let the horses talk: USDA draws a line in the sand
Friday, March 13, 2009 - By Tom Sumners - www.marshalltribune.com
In what could be a pivotal year for the Tennessee Walking Horse industry, optimism could turn to pessimism. The United States Department of Agriculture has implemented changes in the way the Horse Protection Act will be enforced for the 2009 season. Several meetings have been held since the first of the year to explain the changes.
One of the most notable changes is that no saddle or tail brace may be on the horse when coming to the inspection area. Horses may be subject to looking into their mouths and under their tails for foreign objects or distractions. The inspectors (Veterinary Medical Officers or VMOs) will also have the authority to have shoes pulled for further diagnosis when a farrier is available, and hoof testers may be used on flat-shod and padded horses. Also, there will be inspections of the warm-up ring, barns, horse trailers, and so forth.
The National Horse Show Commission inspectors (Designated Qualified Persons or DQPs) will not be permitted to inspect a horse owned by a member of the DQP's immediate family or owned by a DQP's employer.
The VMO and DQP inspectors will always be allowed to carry out their duties with limitations. An area of contention for several years has been the interpretation of the scar rule. Another clinic is to be held in the near future to discuss this in more detail.
With this being said, the Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA) Board of Directors has recommended that the National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) be removed as its Horse Industry Organization (HIO) and ask the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration to implement their HIO, which is called SHOW, to assume the NHSC's function.
This decision was made after two days of meetings focusing on the best strategy to move the walking horse industry forward. The Celebration will take this under advisement. The NHSC is made up of an eight-person board consisting of four WHTA representatives and four from the Walking Horse Owners Association (WHOA). A special called meeting of the membership of the WHTA was held on Monday, March 9, and approved the board's recommendation to leave the NHSC. In so doing, the WHTA board of directors voted to reschedule the upcoming Trainers' show at a later date.
There will be a transition period to get the new HIO operational. This will make a more independent HIO and remove the stigma of conflicts of interest that has existed for many years. Evidently, the USDA has not been pleased with self-enforcement of the industry. With that said and done, the USDA has drawn a line in the sand to let everyone know enforcement of the Horse Protection Act will take place and that the welfare of the horse is first and foremost on their agenda. LET THE HORSES TALK
The USDA is out in force and working hard, and perhaps something is going to break free. Let's hope it's the horses and that they break free of the chains and contraptions that are ruining this breed. There seems to be a light at the end of this very black and bleak tunnel.
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Marshall County Tribune: Story:
Let the horses talk: USDA draws a line in the sand
Friday, March 13, 2009 - By Tom Sumners - www.marshalltribune.com
In what could be a pivotal year for the Tennessee Walking Horse industry, optimism could turn to pessimism. The United States Department of Agriculture has implemented changes in the way the Horse Protection Act will be enforced for the 2009 season. Several meetings have been held since the first of the year to explain the changes.
One of the most notable changes is that no saddle or tail brace may be on the horse when coming to the inspection area. Horses may be subject to looking into their mouths and under their tails for foreign objects or distractions. The inspectors (Veterinary Medical Officers or VMOs) will also have the authority to have shoes pulled for further diagnosis when a farrier is available, and hoof testers may be used on flat-shod and padded horses. Also, there will be inspections of the warm-up ring, barns, horse trailers, and so forth.
The National Horse Show Commission inspectors (Designated Qualified Persons or DQPs) will not be permitted to inspect a horse owned by a member of the DQP's immediate family or owned by a DQP's employer.
The VMO and DQP inspectors will always be allowed to carry out their duties with limitations. An area of contention for several years has been the interpretation of the scar rule. Another clinic is to be held in the near future to discuss this in more detail.
With this being said, the Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA) Board of Directors has recommended that the National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) be removed as its Horse Industry Organization (HIO) and ask the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration to implement their HIO, which is called SHOW, to assume the NHSC's function.
This decision was made after two days of meetings focusing on the best strategy to move the walking horse industry forward. The Celebration will take this under advisement. The NHSC is made up of an eight-person board consisting of four WHTA representatives and four from the Walking Horse Owners Association (WHOA). A special called meeting of the membership of the WHTA was held on Monday, March 9, and approved the board's recommendation to leave the NHSC. In so doing, the WHTA board of directors voted to reschedule the upcoming Trainers' show at a later date.
There will be a transition period to get the new HIO operational. This will make a more independent HIO and remove the stigma of conflicts of interest that has existed for many years. Evidently, the USDA has not been pleased with self-enforcement of the industry. With that said and done, the USDA has drawn a line in the sand to let everyone know enforcement of the Horse Protection Act will take place and that the welfare of the horse is first and foremost on their agenda. LET THE HORSES TALK
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