Clark County Horse

Here comes the rain

2011-10-05T12:43:00.000-07:00

Oh how we all cringe at that statement.

I know that we need God's liquid blessing so that this area we live in can stay green and beautiful. But..... I sure could live with the mud that is coming.

We have our horses on our property and I like being able to look out and see them happily munching away but there is a trade off. We spend our time working on fencing and the barn. Feeding, hauling hay and cleaning stalls.

Or we could have them at a stable where we could just drive over and ride them in a dry area.

Lucky K is just such a facility located at 16818 NE 223rd Circle in Battle Ground. They have big matted stalls, warm water wash rack and individual tack lockers in the barn. And from there you can go to the 72x120 covered arena with seating and a club room and an indoor bathroom. They also have a 60'round pen and parking for your trailer.

They have a basic boarding package for $375 a month. Give them a call at 360.718.7555 or cell 540.841.1642 and talk about your individual needs and preferences.

Trail connection coming soon.

2011-07-27T09:32:00.000-07:00

A vision that has been held for decades is finally going to pay off.

I had heard that the "Fairgounds trail" was moving forward but saw in the paper this morning that even better than that, with enough volunteer help, it could be ready for use in a month.

In an article on the front page of the Life section of the Columbian, written by Scott Hewitt, says that this short trail will be an important connection to a trail that will eventually connect our regional parks. Lisa Goorjian, a landscape architect with the Vancouver-Clark parks says this trail will eventually run from the Columbia River on the west to the Mount Vista area, near the campus of Washington State University Vancouver, on the east.

Dennis and I were part of a committee that continued long standing work to get a trail from the fairgounds to Whipple Creek park. When that committee died because of a change in county employees, we felt like that option would be gone forever.

Let me encourage you to not give up on a good idea for the good of our horse community. Where we left off, others came in and now we will have our trail!

Thank you to all who worked to get this accomplished.

Now we just need 'wet gloves on the handle of a shovel' to get this trail ready to ride.

LOST HORSE

2011-07-26T13:35:00.000-07:00

This is from a friend here in Vancouver. Please pass this information on to everyone!

Her 15'2 hand 10 year old grey mare Sophie was last seen 6/24 near Forest Road 1600/1611 off the Nile Road east of Naches in Yakima county during an endurance ride. She was wearing a black English saddle at the time she was lost.

There is more information on the lost horse international website netpossee.com - http://netposse.com/view_report.asp?reportid=1377&e=1391XXX

Please contact Misty or the Yakima County Sherriff’s office if you have any information on this horse.

Misty: 360-263-4551 mandmf@pacifier.com

Yakima County Sheriff’s office: (509) 574-2500 • FAX (509) 574-2501

2011 Trial Trials results

2011-07-09T20:33:00.000-07:00

How fun.
Great weather, beautiful location and fantastic people.
Today's Trail Trials were a success and I will have tons of pictures in a day or two. In the meantime, I wanted to post the winners.

Congratulations to you all.......

Adult Placings
1st Lisa Lichte 126.5 Bridle
2nd Bill Bott 123 Groom tote
3rd Debby Williams 118 Saddle Pad
4th Pam Walsh 118 Saddle Pad

Youth
1st Chloe Nevins 115 Earrings or Bridle
2nd Emily Wickert 84 Silver Hoofpick

Extreme
1st Debbie Woodhouse 120 Saddle
2nd Kathleen Ingerson 117 Bridle
3rd Stephanie Gaylord 116.5 Hoofpick

2011 Trail Trials

2011-07-04T22:11:00.000-07:00

Registration form for 2011 Trail Trials Saturday July 9th.

Clark County Fair Mounted Patrol Trail Trials
Saturday July 9, 2011
Zumstein Family Farm
41316 NE 12th Ave., Woodland, WA
(360) 225-8694
email at TrailTrials@aol.com

The Trail Trials is a judged competitive trail ride that emphasizes safety and good horsemanship. It consists of a trail ride of 1-2 hours with judged obstacles for horse and rider to negotiate along the way. Obstacles can be natural or a simulation of naturally occurring conditions. This event will have 12-14 obstacles including a bridge, creek, logs and hills.

If you don't feel like you want to complete, come anyway and just enjoy a ride on a beautiful historic tree farm while you challenge you and your horse partner.

Sign in starts 8:00 a.m. with first out at 9:00 a.m. The start time will be assigned at sign in. The last Entry will be accepted at NOON!

The directions to the farm are on the entry form.

Fees per class:

Youth 12 – 17 $25.00
(Helmets required)

Adults 18+ $30.00

Extreme Trail Horse $45.00
(adults only)

EHV-1 outbreak

2011-05-18T12:11:00.000-07:00

This is taken directly from Ridgefield Equine Clinic's FaceBook page.
If you have any other questions, call the office at 360-887-8979.

by Ridgefield Equine Clinic, PC on Tuesday, May 17, 2011 at 12:27pm
Many of you have seen in the news in the past few days, there is an outbreak of the neurologic virus: Equine Herpes Virus type-1 (EHV-1). The numbers are changing by the minute, however at least 6 states including Washington have affected horses. Many of the affected horses attended the National Cutting Association’s Western national Championships in Ogden, Utah (April 30-May 8 2011), or were in contact with persons or horses who attended the Championships.
Some important information:
1)EHV-1 is highly contagious among horses and camelids (llamas and alpacas) but does NOT infect humans or small ruminants. Transmission of the disease can be by direct or indirect contact with a horse that is shedding the virus. Humans, tack, and buckets are all potential ways the disease is transmitted. Airborne transmission also occurs; how far the virus can travel and survive in the air is unknown at this time.
2)It can take up to 14 days after exposure to the virus for a horse to become ill. Often the first symptom is a fever (body temperature greater than 101.0 F), monitoring temperature 2-3 times per day of any horses that may have been exposed to the virus can be a helpful tool in early diagnosis. Other symptoms can include inappetance, lethargy, nasal discharge, dribbling urine, abnormal gait (wobbly) among others.
3)Proper biosecurity is a key component in preventing the spread of this, and many diseases. Stop the movement of any horses who have been in contact with affected horses or facilities. If a horse is known to have been exposed do not allow that horse to have contact with other non-exposed horses. Isolate sick horses. Do not share equipment among horses, wash hands, disinfect. The recommended isolation period for horses potentially exposed is a minimum of 28days.
4) If you are concerned your horse may be affected by, or in contact with horses affected by this outbreak situation, please call our office! There is some indication that vaccination with a high antigen load killed vaccine licensed for abortion control may help minimize the impact of this disease; also there are antiviral pharmaceuticals available for horses; these may be helpful in treating this disease--these can be discussed with us on a case-by-case basis.

COLD

2010-11-23T08:51:00.000-08:00

Oh the joys of winter horsekeeping.

Does anyone else get that warm snuggie feeling when they hear the ring of poop-sicles falling into the wheelbarrow? Or remember fondly the joy of chiseling frozen poop? How about the deep mud holes that have now turned into moguls for horses and humans to navigate. What joy.

It's mornings like this that make me really enjoy my horses. I have to really enjoy them, don't I, or would I continue to do this year after year. The tough part is this is just a very early view of things to come in this year of the 2010 La Nina.

Well, off to hauling down jugs of hot water to even out the ice crusted water buckets. I know that bucket heaters would help but we don't have enough power in the barn to run them. At least all this heavy trudging is good exercise. Good prep for the Thanksgiving feast.

BTW, this will be an especially joyous Thanksgiving because we will have all our kids with us. Now that is joy. And yes, even when I'm flinging frozen poo, I am happy because that means that I do have a horse of my own.

Now that is JOY.

That's our Hummer

2010-11-04T12:04:00.000-07:00

I was just reading thru the current Guideposts Magazine. "the up side" on page 14 had a quote by Actress Jane Seymour, from her new book Among Angels. She said that some people believe in blessings instead of luck. In the same way, she doesn't believe things are coincidences but miracles. I usually call those types of things God-incidences.
This brought to mind an event from last night.

Dennis and I went to beginning sorting at Silver Buckle. We are working on setting a plan of bringing our granddaughter, Emily, with us. She recently had a spinal cord surgery and her scoliosis is getting much worse so we have been bringing her in a wagon, padded and arranged for her comfort. I park the wagon in the corner just outside the sorting pen and she has been our timer - everyone having a good time. I put a barrel next to the wagon to sit on as I keep her company and as a barrier between Emily and whatever is happening in the arena.

Dennis and Hummer had completed a couple of goes and Dennis wanted to get some coffee so Emily and I held Hummer while Dennis went to the refreshment table. We were enjoying visiting with Hummer and he was nicely bending down so Emily could pet him. Emily was keeping time and we were visiting when I felt the barrel bump. I looked up and saw a horse bounce off Hummer while he just stood there quietly. What Emily and I saw was a horse that had somehow pulled off his headset with the bit still in his mouth. He was jumping around while the owner tried to get everything put back correctly.

A friend was watching and said that this horse came toward Hummer and he just stood there and puffed up while the other horse bounced into him. What is natural for a horse is to watch out for himself and get out of the way. What actually happened is that instead of moving away, Hummer just quietly stood right next to me and Emily and protected us from the other horse.

When Dennis came back with him coffee, I told him what happened and I got tears in my eyes. Hummer has walked into me many other times with much less provocation. This time Hummer was protecting Emily. I don't think it was a coincidence that Hummer was standing with us right then. God put him there to protect us. A miracle.

Park Plan Passes

2010-06-10T14:32:00.000-07:00

For those of you that don't get The Columbian in print or online, here is the article from yesterday's paper.

County commissioners voted 3-0 on Tuesday to approve the Lower Daybreak Regional Park master plan, acknowledging that there’s no funding in sight but recognizing that formally adopting the plan opens up the possibility of receiving grants for the project.

This is a victory for the horse community in that extensive equine facilities are planned for the area. Clark County Executive Horse Council and interested individuals have worked for may years to get the county to ok something like this. There is no money to accomplish the plan right now but just having it ok'd is a start.

Many thanks to Butch Reynolds, president of the Clark County Executive Horse Council for getting this passed. It is a good thing............

The Horse

2010-06-01T14:46:00.000-07:00

Within the warmth of my horse’s breath, I will find the air that I need to live today, I will find the wind to fly to the heights of my dreams, I will find the one I am meant to be.

Colleen Randall
NARHA Advanced Instructor
GaitQuest Therapeutic Horsemanship
806.934.2300
www.gaitquest.com

Heat Stroke

2010-05-25T14:52:00.000-07:00

I'm guessing that this is the farthest thought from your mind today.

Our grandson asked if he could go down with me to let the horses out this morning and I said no. When he asked why, I said cause the muck would suck his boots off. He then offered that perhaps I shouldn't go there either. I just love the workings of a 4 year old mind. I said that I agreed but that someone had to let them out so they could have breakfast.

But remember last summer? Right now the memories seem to be from a far away land but summer will come and quite possibly, high heat.

As I continually confess, this horse stuff is new to us so if I'm offending anyone by sharing information that is too basic, sorry. We had to start somewhere and I'm guessing that there may be others in the same place. My poor vet keeps getting the "what do I do now?" calls. This article might save someone a phone call.

Plain Facts on Heat Stroke by Eleanor M. Kellon, VMD

Summers heat and humidity can be much more than just uncomfortable. They can be deadly. Horses lose their lives every year to heat stroke. Countless others struggle through anything from weakness to colic as a result of inadequate care in hot weather. Don’t let this happen to your horse! read more....

As a side note, the author, Eleanor M. Kellon, VMD, is the standing authority on Equine Cushings and IR and shares a lot of valuable information on the Yahoo web group - EquineCushings.

Stay dry and remember, this too shall pass.......

2010-05-18T15:20:00.000-07:00

I need to tell you all how great I think the 'farm officials' are in this area.

I have had weed questions in the past and I can take in a sample and they'll scramble around until they come up with a name and tell me if it is toxic for horses.

The newsletter that Doug Stienbarger sends out from the Small Acreage Program is great and he keeps us all informed about upcoming events and opportunities.

Contact information:
Doug Stienbarger, Extension Director
(360) 397-6060 ext. 7716
doug.stienbarger@clark.wa.gov

Today I had another opportunity to experience the good service that we receive from our farm folks. I had a concern about the Lupine on the property next to us.

I shot Erin an email and within an hour she sent me a reply. She calmed my fears, gave me a reality check and even gave me an 'atta boy' for being vigilant about the condition of our pastures. We are especially fortunate that Erin is a horse person that grew up here and now she plans and schedules a lot of good classes and workshops for the Small Acreage Program. To see what's coming up, contact:

Erin Harwood, Program Coordinator
(360) 397-6060 ext. 7720
Erin.Harwood@clark.wa.gov

We have a lot of dedicated individuals within our community. Some do it as a job and others get involved as volunteers.

An example of this blend is the Clark County Equestrian Advisory Group. They have been meeting since last November and are working at making this a horse friendly area. The Executive Horse Council has been working towards this for years and that work is paying off. One of the items that the Equestrian Advisory Group is working on is identifying areas that should have an Equestrian zoning. Check out their web site to see what is happening now and to read the meeting notes.

There is a 'contact' form on one of the pages or for more information, you can contact:
Laurie Lebowsky
Clark County Community Planning
(360) 397-2280 ext. 4544
laurie.lebowsky@clark.wa.gov

Remember that our county will become more Equine friendly as we continue to be involved and make our voices heard.

Good job everyone!

Tack Sale - April 17th

2010-04-08T15:00:00.000-07:00

The Outlaws are having a Tack Sale Saturday April 17, 2010.

Location: Clark County Saddle Club - 10505 NE 117th Ave. Vancouver, WA

It will be open to the public at 8:00 AM. Coffee & donuts & a limited lunch menu will be available.

If you are interested in being a vendors, please call Jorga @ 360-521-8532

Sleeping Around

2010-03-16T16:41:00.000-07:00

I got this in an email today.....

It's ALWAYS the kids that suffer. His name is Zonkey

Upcoming Small Acreage Events

2010-03-04T12:53:00.000-08:00

I just received this from Erin Harwood, the Small Acreage Program Coordinator for WSU Clark County Extension -

1) Small Acreage Expo - save the date!
2) Sustainable Small Acreage Living Workshop
3) GreenGate Farm Tour
4) Well and Septic Maintenance Workshop
==================================

Small Acreage Expo - 5th Annual Save the date! Saturday April 17th 9 am to 3 pm Battle Ground
Great classes on pastures, manure management, composting, weed control, chainsaw maintenance, rain barrels, beekeeping, chickens, business planning, and much more!! Further details available soon!

Sustainable Small Acreage Living - Tuesday March 23 6:30 to 8:30 pm CASEE Center, Brush Prairie
Learn to create an efficient property layout, protect natural resources, establish property management goals, manage water on your property, protect soil and improve its fertility, reduce chore time, and save money. Additional support for this event provided by Clark Conservation District.

Small Acreage Tour: GreenGate Farm - Saturday March 27 10 am to 12 pm Battle Ground
Come see unique manure disposal, pasture rotation, interesting guttering, and mud reduction. Learn how the owners run a small horse business. Gain valuable ideas for your property and take home great reference materials. Additional support for this event provided by Clark Conservation District.

Well and Septic Maintenance Workshop - Wednesday April 7 6:30 to 9:00 pm
Clark County Fire & Rescue, Dollars Corner
21609 NE 72nd Ave, Battle Ground
Learn from local experts how to properly maintain your septic system, prevent costly repairs, and protect your drinking water from contamination. Connect with local experts to have your questions answered. Additional support for this event provided by Clark County Public Health.

PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED ~ Space is limited!

Call (360) 397-6060 ext. 0 to register for any event and for directions

All events sponsored by the Small Acreage Program, a joint partnership between WSU Clark County Extension and the Clark County Clean Water Program.

Erin Harwood
Small Acreage Program Coordinator
WSU Clark County Extension
11104 NE 149th Street, C-100
Brush Prairie, WA 98606
Phone: 360-397-6060 x7720
Fax: 360-397-6122
http://clark.wsu.edu

Horses and Kids

2010-03-02T14:53:00.000-08:00

What a grand combination.

When we moved to our place sort of in the middle of town, we figured we would have people, especially kids, come to see our horses. God has sent them and we have enjoyed the experience. The kids all seem to come in 2s probably for courage. The latest ‘2’ came on Saturday.

On Friday, I flew back from a month in Texas with our son and his family. They were moving back to Vancouver and I was there to help them pack. Dennis and Eric got in last night with the big Penske truck and two cars. Triann and the grandkids and I flew back.
The journey back took us 12 hours because we were blessed with a friend giving us standby passes. We made all the intended flights but had two plane changes and a 5 hour layover. It was a long day but the price was right and it saved us driving for 4 days.

Ok, long story to explain how tired I was on Saturday when I saw 2 young girls come thru the yard. They had been told that they couldn’t go to the horses without asking first. When I opened the door, they asked if I could teach them how to pet a horse. The last thing I wanted to do right then was go out into the field but how could I turn down a request like that. So out we went. The horses were wonderful and came up to visit for just a bit. We talked about how to watch the ears and to see how they communicate without talking. Also did the safety talk. They enjoyed themselves and I was happy that I had gone out to say hello to my boys.

Later that day, I heard a knock on the door and there were the two girls again. This time they each had a bouquet of daffodils. They wanted to go pet the horses again. I declined this time but gladly accepted the flowers.

What a nice ‘welcome home’ gift and one of the unexpected joys of owning horses.

I just love it!

Help find stolen truck

2010-01-18T18:34:00.000-08:00

I just received this email.

Hi this is Jacob Anderson. I am just shooting out a blanket e-mail to ask people to keep there eyes open for this truck that was stolen from my yard on 29th Ave. in Ridgefield. The truck was stolen Sunday night 1-17-2010 while I was at the Winter Woolies Show.

If you have any Info please call Jenna cell 360-953-0957 or Jacob cell 360-953-0956

Budweiser Clydes

2010-01-17T13:46:00.000-08:00

I just watched my DVR of the Jan 17th The Horse Show with Rick Lamb on RFDTV. He tours Anheuser-Busch’s 350-acre Clydesdale breeding farm outside Columbia, Missouri. It is Episode 268.

Rick has a link to this program but I found that it took a long time to load so I've included that link here.

He does his usual good interview with some interesting information. There is also some incredible footage of those magnificent animals running. They also show one of their stallions that weighs over 2000 lbs.

I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.

Jody

Flying Horseman

2010-01-17T12:55:00.000-08:00

I received a link to a video of Lorenzo, the Flying Horseman in my email this week. I have seen it before but it is still breathtaking.

I wanted to find a link that you all could see so I did a search and found several more videos. Each one has something a bit different but still incredable pictures so I'm sending these along also. There are several more so if your interested, just Google Lorenzo and have fun.

In the water in the south of France

Flying Horseman

Free horse

Equitanna 2007

This one is an interview with Lorenzo. If you don't speak Frence, just turn the sound down and watch some amazing video.

If you know of someone who does speak French, ask them to traslate this interview and pass along the script. I'd love to hear it.

Jody

Dear Horse,

2010-01-17T12:48:00.000-08:00

(from my inbox)

I love you very much, and I truly cherish your presence in my life. I would
never wish to criticize you in any way. However, there are a few trivial
details regarding our relationship that I think might bear your
consideration.

First of all, I am already aware that horses can run faster than I can. I do
not need you to demonstrate that fact each time I come to get you in the
pasture. Please remember that I work long and hard to earn the money to keep
you in the style to which you have become accustomed. In return, I think you
should at least pretend to be glad to see me, even when I'm carrying a
bridle instead of a bucket of oats.

It should be fairly obvious to you that I am a human being who walks on only
two legs. I do not resemble a scratching post. Do not think that, when you
rub your head against me with 1,000 pounds of force behind it, I believe
that it wasn't your intention to send me flying. I am also aware that
stomping on my toes while you are pushing me around is nothing but adding
injury to insult.

I understand I cannot expect you to cover your nose when you sneeze, but it
would be appreciated if you did not inhale large amounts of dirt and manure
prior to aiming your sneezes at my face and shirt. Also, if you have
recently filled your mouth with water you do not intend to drink, please let
it all dribble from your mouth BEFORE you put your head on my shoulder. In
addition, while I know you despise your deworming medication, my intentions
in giving it to you are good, and I really do not think I should be rewarded
by having you spit half of it back out onto my shirt.

Sometimes, I get the feeling that you are confused about the appropriate
roles you should play in various situations. One small bit of advice: Your
stone-wall imitation should be used when I am mounting and your speed-walker
imitation when I suggest that we proceed on our way, not vice versa. Please
also understand that jumping is meant to be a mutual endeavor. By "mutual",
I mean that we are supposed to go over the jump together. You were purchased
to be a mount, not a catapult.

I know the world is a scary place when your eyes are on the sides of your
head, but I did spend a significant amount of money to buy you, and I have
every intention of protecting that investment. Therefore, please consider
the following when you are choosing the appropriate behavior for a
particular situation:

- When I put your halter on you, attach one end of a lead rope to the
halter, and tie the other end of the lead rope to a post or rail or
whatever, I am indicating a desire for you to remain in that locale. I would
also like the halter, lead rope, post, etc., to remain intact. While I admit
that things like sudden loud noises can be startling, I do not consider them
to be acceptable excuses for repeatedly snapping expensive new lead ropes
(or halters or posts) so that you can run madly around the barn area
creating havoc in your wake. Such behavior is not conducive to achieving
that important goal that I know we both share --- decreasing the number of
times the veterinarian comes out to visit you.

- By the same token, the barn aisle was not designed for the running of the
Kentucky Derby and is not meant to serve as a racetrack. Dragging me down
the aisle in leaps and bounds is not how "leading" is supposed to work, even
if someone happens to drop a saddle on the floor as we're passing. Pulling
loose and running off is also discouraged (although I admit it does allow
you to run faster).

- I assure you that blowing pieces of paper do not eat horses. While I
realize you are very athletic, I do not need a demonstration of your ability
to jump 25 feet sideways from a standing start while swapping ends in
midair, nor am I interested in your ability to emulate both a racehorse and
a bucking bronco while escaping said piece of paper. Also, if the paper were
truly a danger, it would be the height of unkindness to dump me on the
ground in front of it as a sacrificial offering to expedite your escape.

- When I ask you to cross a small stream, you may safely assume that said
stream does not contain crocodiles, sharks, or piranhas, nor will it be
likely to drown you. (I have actually seen horses swimming, so I know it can
be done.) I expect you to be prepared to comply with the occasional request
to wade across some small body of water. Since I would like to be dry when
we reach the other side of the stream, deciding to roll when we're halfway
across is not encouraged behavior.

- I give you my solemn oath that the trailer is nothing but an alternate
means of transportation for distances too long for walking. It is not a
lion's den or a dragon's maw, nor will it magically transform into such. It
is made for horses, and I promise you that you will indeed fit into your
assigned space. Please also bear in mind that I generally operate on a
schedule, and wherever we're going, I would really like to get there today.

For the last time, I do not intend to abandon you to a barren, friendless
existence. If I put you in a turn-out pen, I promise that no predators will
eat you, and I will come back in due time to return you to your stall. It is
not necessary to run in circles, whinny pathetically, threaten to jump the
fence, or paw at the gate. Neither your stall mates nor I will have left the
premises. The other horses standing peacefully in adjacent pens amply
demonstrate that it is possible to enjoy being turned out for exercise.

In order to reassure you, my dear horse, I have posted the following message
on your stall door:

"Notice to People Who Complain About My Horse"

1. I like my horse a lot better than I like people who complain about her.

2. To you, she's an animal; to me, she's a big, hairy, four-legged daughter
--- and you know what they say about coming between a mother and her
children.

3. This stall is her castle, and you are expected to treat her as the queen
she thinks she is.

4. If you don't want her to steal your carrots, don't walk by her with the
carrots sticking out of your pockets.

5. Horses are better than husbands or kids. They eat grass, don't smoke or
drink, don't expect an allowance, don't voluntarily get their body parts
pierced, don't hog the remote, don't waste the whole weekend watching
football with their friends, don't talk back to you, don't compare you
unfavorably with their friends' owners, don't keep you awake with their
snoring --- and no horse ever left the toilet seat up after going to the
bathroom.

Finally, in closing, my strong and gentle companion, I would like to point
out that, whatever might happen between horses and their people, we humans
will always love you. In fact, our bonds with you help create new bonds
among ourselves, even with total strangers. Wherever there are horses, there
will be "horse people", and for the blessings you bestow upon us, we thank
you.

Most sincerely yours,

Your Owner

Happy New Year!

2010-01-11T11:40:00.000-08:00

Hope you are off to a good year. Of course, regardless of our personal situations, how we look at them as our choice so we can always be having a good year. I have friends that groan every time I say that. Not too long ago, I had a friend jump at the chance to remind me of that same fact. It made her day!

Now down to business.

I just got my order of a new RED saddle pad and boring brown leg wraps from Horse.com. Dennis and I have been drooling thru the catalog that came in the box and there are some really good deals in there. They’ve got pads and blankets and vet supplies and ointments and tack and clothes…….
Just a heads up to look them up on line if you’re needing to restock any of your trunks.

I’m sure there are plenty of other good deals around this time of year. If you find something really good, send it to me and I’ll pass it along.

Dennis has been home sick for a few days now and we are zipping thru our list of DVR programs. We watched Rick Lamb’s program last night and he had a lady that was a professional body clipper. She admitted that her job can get a bit boring and to liven things up, she started clipping in designs into the horses coats. She used a manila file folder to cut out a template of a diver. She taped that to the horses neck and then clipped around it and added some freehand ‘bubbles’ up along the mane line and then as the horse walked, the diver and bubbles moved. Now that’s making lemonade out of a lemon job! Talk about making choices about how you look at a situation.

Well, off to making some chicken soup for lunch.

Jody

I Ride

2009-12-14T15:49:00.000-08:00

Sharing from my in-box -

Below from an 87-yr old very active horseback riding mother I thought an
expression of a horse lover's thanks and feeling of empowerment--and
worthy of sharing in this season.

Subject: I Ride

I ride. That seems like such a simple statement. However as many women
who ride know it is really a complicated matter. It has to do with power
and empowerment. Being able to do things you might have once considered
out of reach or ability. I have considered this as I shovel manure, fill
water barrels in the cold rain, wait for the
vet/farrier/electrician/hay delivery, change a tire on a horse trailer by
the side of the freeway, or cool a gelding out before getting down to the
business of drinking a cold beer after a long ride.

The time, the money, the effort it takes to ride calls for dedication. At
least I call it dedication. Both my ex-husbands call it 'the sickness'.
It's a sickness I've had since I was a small girl bouncing my model
horses and dreaming of the day I would ride a real horse. Most of the
women I ride with understand the meaning of 'the sickness'. It's not a
sport. It's not a hobby. It's what we do and, in some ways, who we are as
women and human beings.

I ride. I hook up my trailer and load my gelding. I haul to some
trailhead somewhere, unload, saddle, whistle up my dog and I ride. I
breathe in the air, watch the sunlight filter through the trees and savor
the movement of my horse. My shoulders relax. A smile rides my sunscreen
smeared face. I pull my ball cap down and let the real world fade into
the tracks my horse leaves in the dust.

Time slows. Flying insects buzz loudly, looking like fairies. My gelding
flicks his ears and moves down the trail. I can smell his sweat and it is
perfume to my senses. Time slows. The rhythm of the walk and the movement
of the leaves become my focus. My saddle creaks and the leather rein in
my hand softens with the warmth.

I consider the simple statement; I ride. I think of all I do because I
ride. Climb granite slabs, wade into a freezing lake, race a friend
through the Manzanita all the while laughing and feeling my heart in my
chest. Other days just the act of mounting and dismounting can be a real
accomplishment. Still I ride, no matter how tired or how
much my seat bones or any of the numerous horse related injuries hurt. I
ride. And I feel better for doing so.

The beauty I've seen because I ride amazes me. I've ridden out to find
lakes that remain for the most part, unseen. Caves, dark and cold beside
rivers full and rolling are the scenes I see in my dreams The Granite
Stairway at Echo Summit; bald eagles on the wing and bobcats on the prowl
add to the empowerment and joy in my heart.

I think of the people, mostly women, I've met. I consider how competent
they all are. Not a weenie amongst the bunch.. We haul 40 ft rigs, we
back into tight spaces without clipping a tree. We set up camp. Tend the
horses. We cook and keep safe. We understand and love our companions, the
horse. We respect each other and those we encounter on the trail. We know
that if you are out there riding, you also shovel, fill, wait and doctor.
Your hands are a little rough and you travel without makeup or hair gel.
You do without to afford the 'sickness' and probably, when you were a
small girl, you bounced a model horse while you dreamed of riding a real
one.

"My treasures do not chink or glitter, they gleam in the sun and neigh in
the night"

Weather Cafe

2009-12-02T08:51:00.000-08:00

I want to share a resource that I have been enjoying for a bit now.

It is a twice weekly weather report from the weathercafe yahoo group. It is written by *Rufus* and he seems to have a really good handle on long range weather forecasts. The group description - "The Weather Cafe provides informative long-range forecasts for specific patrons from the PNW". He has an eye out for agriculture folks.

Rufus sends out emails on Mondays and Fridays but occasionally will send out mid-week updates if there is something important to share. I got one of those today so I am passing it on....

Wednesday December 2

SPECIAL STATEMENT

ARCTIC AIR MASS is poised to drop in for a visit this weekend. Western valleys may see a few snow showers as the cold front passes late Friday, with another colder shot of air due in Sunday/Monday.

A VERY COLD high pressure 'dome' of air, with surface readings around 1050 mb, will move out of the Yukon into western Canada, then nudge southeast into the U.S. heartland over the weekend. This type of pattern typically results in some of our coldest winter weather across the PNW. The heavy air mass will push rapidly out of the Fraser Valley and Columbia River Gorge into west side locations. WINDY - with wind chill factors for some patrons on the east side in the single digits. Bundle up.

This morning's lows in the mid-to-upper 20s west of Cascades (first 'hard frost' of the fall for many) is only the teaser for temps in the mid-teens probable in west side locations Monday and Tuesday mornings. Eastern basins will not get above freezing for three or four days; lows approaching zero for some.

-> Business and residential plumbing should be prepped for sub-freezing temperatures. Ranchers plan water availability for livestock.

Now, the transition. Long time residents of the PNW know that heavy, cold air 'bottles up' on the east side of the Cascades and pushes through to the west to set up some of our classic snow conditions as a warm front approaches from the west / southwest. It takes decent southerly winds to move aside the cold air mass. Come mid-week, a strong storm (remnants of T.S. NIDA) is modeled to aim primarily at California (heavy rain likely there). As the system approaches, it is very likely for SNOW at all west side locations - at least until the system stirs in warmer surface air. Could be a significant amount of snow beforehand if the center of the storm tracks in a more southern pattern.

Snow should transition to RAIN for western valleys and even some lower elevations of eastern OR / WA by sometime Thursday. This will be a WINDY storm, esp for southern OR / northern CA. Possibility for a second and third low to form moving warmer air and moderate RAIN to many PNW locations as next weekend approaches. FLOOD issues could be in play for northern CA. -> NOTE: the last of the series of fronts is likely to pull down COLD AIR on the back side, as another shot of Arctic air moves close to the WA / B.C. border next weekend. Some model runs indicate VERY LOW snow levels probable in the Dec 11 - 12 time frame, maybe even to the surface. Mountain passes will get hammered.

Your WxCafe (TM) will update this ever adjusting scenario on Friday. In the mean time, take the time to prepare for significant winter weather.

-Rufus

A Horse’s Christmas Wish

2009-12-01T08:32:00.000-08:00

This isn't particularly funny like the stuff I like to share but it is food for thought.

A different take on this favorite poem ---

T’was the night before Christmas, but my manger was bare,

My coat was still matted, with manure in my hair.

My thirst showed no mercy on this day of the Lord.

My stall was so filthy, manure covering the floor.

The night’s stars were brilliant, in the clear sky they shined.

Peace and love filled the world, almost all, but not mine.

Here it was bitter cold and hunger the rule.

The season’s sweet blessings weren’t shared by the cruel.

My owner was comfortable, snug in his bed.

He didn’t care that I still hadn’t been fed.

When out in the pasture, what should I hear?

But the sound of a sleigh and the hoofs of reindeer!

As I peered out the stall there arose quite a clatter.

As Santa strode in to see what was the matter.

“I heard of your suffering, even from afar.

Your owner doesn’t deserve you, the great horse that you are!”

The scowl on his face didn’t fit the old elf.

His anger had gotten him quite beside himself.

He threw open the stall door and then in a flash,

Had my rack filled with hay and my feeder with mash!

“You enjoy this,” he said as he strode to the house,

“I’m going to stir up much more than a mouse!”

As I munched I looked out to see what would occur.

Santa entered the house and he caused quite a stir!

He grabbed my owner by the back of his shirt

And pulled him to the barn, where he stopped with a jerk.

“This horse is God’s creature; he’s been placed in your care!”

Santa fairly shouted, his wrath filled the air.

“You have used and abused him, for far too long.

And what’s worse, you don’t even think that it’s wrong!”

“I’ve got your long wish list right here in my coat,”

“You want toys and gizmos, a new car and a boat!”

“But your gift from me this year is better by far

Than any new toys, or a shiny new car!”

My owner’s eyes grew wide and filled up with fear.

He seemed quite afraid of what next he would hear.

Santa took a deep breath, then said with a sigh,

“You shall switch lives with this sweet little guy!”

Then laying his finger aside of his nose

He winked at me, smiling, and then switched our roles.

I was no longer a horse, all battered and thin.

But stood on two feet, wearing a grin!

The horse in the stall neighed loudly in protest.

Santa just laughed and shook his head as he left.

I heard him exclaim as he drove out of sight,

“Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!”

So I watered my horse, and cleaned out his stall,

Amazed that there are season’s blessings after all!

Author Unknown

Dear Horse Owners

2009-11-28T19:25:00.000-08:00

Time for some silliness......

Dear Horse Owners,

Are you experiencing too many second and third finishes behind inferior horses at horse shows?
During a trail ride, does your horse forget everything he was bred to do?

Well, this simple chain letter is meant to bring relief and happiness to you. Unlike most chain letters, it doesn't cost any money.

Simply send a copy to seven other horse owners who are dissatisfied with the way that their horse is behaving. Then, bundle up your horse and ship him/her to the horse owner at the top of the list, and add your name to the bottom of the list. Do not use a return address or the post office may try to contact you.

In one week you should receive 16,436 horses, and at least one of them should be a keeper.
Have faith!! Do not break the chain!! One owner broke the chain and got his own horse back.

Land use Meetings

2009-11-09T14:08:00.000-08:00

There are two meetings this week that would be of interest to the local horse community.

Tonight, Nov 9th, the Equestrian Advisory group for the first time.

Tomorrow night, Nov 10th, there will be an open house to let you know about what is being discussed by the Rural Lands task force.

But before I go on more about those meetings, let me tell you that I am getting confused! I love the fact that our city and county officials are finally looking at making the area more horse friendly. The tough part is that there are so many groups and meetings that sound alike, I’m having a hard time keeping them straight - and I make it my business to keep up on these things. I have spent several hours figuring out the names of these task groups and what they are about. I hope this helps.

Like I have been saying for a bit now, I think the tide is turning and local governments are realizing the need for the citizens of our county to enjoy a ‘back to the land’ life style and are aligning the codes and zoning to facilitate that.

Here goes:

Urban Livestock Task Force (Urban Livestock review) has completed its job.

In response to a complaint about horses on small acreage in the Vancouver UGA and resulting concern from some that the County was going to restrict the keeping of horses on smaller parcels, the Board of Clark County Commissioners (BOCC) appointed a task force on urban livestock
The Board of Clark County Commissioners adopted an urban livestock ordinance at its hearing on October 6, 2009. The ordinance takes affect on November 1, 2009. The new ordinance is Section 40.260.235 of the Clark County Code.

The Rural Lands Task force is an ongoing group working on the Rural lands review

Current rural land zoning in the county was established in 1994 with the adoption of the County's first comprehensive plan under the Growth Management Act (GMA). The County has completed two comprehensive plan updates since then (2004 and 2007), but their focus has been on urban areas and how to accommodate projected growth.
After completion of the 2007 update of the Growth Management Act, the BOCC directed a review of rural lands.
The first phase is completed with task force recommendations listed here.

They are working at making our county more Ag friendly, perhaps even encouraging Ag use on appropriate land. If you have not taken the online survey that I talked about in a previous blog, click here to get your opinion counted. They are listening.

This is the new kid on the block and is also from the Community Planning people.

Equestrian advisory group was formed because of the interest shown by horse people in the Rural lands Review. (see they are listening)
Their first meeting will be tonight, Nov. 9th, and is open to the public.

The advisory group will help develop an equestrian plan focusing on the following elements:

• Equestrian trails
• Equestrian overlay district to supplement existing zoning
• Best management practices
• Economic development opportunities at the county fairgrounds

For more information, please contact Laurie Lebowsky in Community Planning at (360) 397-2280 ext. 4544 or e-mail Laurie.Lebowsky@clark.wa.gov.
The seven-member Equestrian Advisory Group will look at topics ranging from trails and events to zoning that could support equestrian-related housing developments.

Just to add one more element, the city of Vancouver has created the City of Vancouver - Urban Livestock Advisory Group. I am a member of this group and we have been meeting since the middle of August. We are working on possible code changes that would allow the raising of farm animals within the City limits. These would affect the residents of the City of Vancouver with an eye out for the folks in the Urban Growth Boundary that will become part of the city in the future.

OK, so I hope this makes the issues a bit clearer. Or if not, at least you know about the discussions going on in the area concerning our horse keeping.

Eat out for a good cause -

2009-11-03T11:34:00.000-08:00

If you are planning on eating out in the next few days, think about making it a 'two-fer' by going to Panda Express at the JM Plaza location or the Salmon Creek location. They are supporting the Prairie High School Equestrian Team by donating 20% of your purchase to them.

Print out this flyer and take it in with you and support a good cause.

Our area is really getting behind all these High School Equestrian teams and we will all benefit by the caliber of youth that they are creating.

Just stuff

2009-10-19T19:18:00.000-07:00

I read this in the Sunday paper and just had to share -
The article was talking about all the stuff that we worry about in our world today. A good thing for me to read cause my son and his family all have 'the flu' right now. Actually the point was to see how 'unsolvables' have been solved. I usually come from a different perspective but it was a good article and handled the issue well.

And one of the issues was Horse Manure.

As urban populations exploded in the 19th century (sounds like our county these last few years) horses were put to work in many ways. Horse power was used to pull streetcars, coaches and fire engines and quite literally for powering manufacturing equipment. The cities became filled with horses. An example - in 1900, New York City was home to around 200,000 horses. One for every 17 people.

Because of this there was what the economists of that time referred to as "negative externalities". These included many things like noise, gridlock, high insurance costs and far too many human traffic fatalities and one of the worst problems:

...... THE MANURE ......

The average horse produces about 24 pounds of it a day. In New York, at that time, that added up to nearly 5 million pounds - A DAY. (and we think we have it bad)

It lined the street like banks of snow and was piled as high as 60 feet in vacant lots and it smelled really bad. It was a fertile breeding ground for flies that spread deadly disease. City planners everywhere were confounded. It seemed as if cities could not survive without the horse - but they couldn't survive with it, either.

And then the problem vanished. The horse was kicked to the curb by the electric streetcar and the automobile.

Fall Festival & Barn Social

2009-10-13T14:25:00.000-07:00

I hope you can ready the flyer - I think it is so cute.
But I want to be sure that you know about this event at Silver Buckle Ranch.

The Fall Festival is a repeat of the very successful open house last year. Lots of happy kids and parents enjoyed our working ranch. This year will be even better with demonstrations of sorting, roping, barrel racing and poles. Wagon rides, a petting zoo, pony rides and free pumpkins for the first 200 children are some of the activities. We are asking for a $5.00 donation per car.

That evening, from 5:30 to 8:30 the adults are invited back to relax and enjoy the fun at the fist Silver Buckle Ranch Barn Social and Auction. It will be catered by Applewoods and will feature a silent and oral auction. Don Hanley will be our auctioneer and we will be treated to some of his cowboy poetry. A few of the items to be offered at auction are an equine massage, a people massage, an in office teeth whitening treatment, custom made saddle pockets and a K-9 Ride-A-Long from our Sheriff's Department.

Call Silver Buckle (360) 260-8932 for tickets, $25 per person.

Come join the fun.

Jody Benson

Update ---
New Auction items

Guided Fishing trip
Wine Gift Basket
Vorson white electric guitar - signed by members of Sawyer Brown!!!!

Daybreak Park

2009-10-12T21:23:00.000-07:00

When: Wednesday, October 14th – 7:00 PM
Were: Daybreak Primary and Middle School commons
1900 NW 20th Ave, Battle Ground

What: Another meeting……………..

Seems like there have been a lot lately but these are all important for the future of our horse community. And they seem to be making a difference.

The latest one is a chance for us to let the county know what we think should happen at Daybreak Park.

There was a good article in The Columbian this morning about this meeting. The county is looking to private groups – including us – for good ideas about the use of the 112-acre undeveloped site on the south bank of the East Fork Lewis River. They are looking for partnerships in the planning and developing of the park. The meeting on Wednesday will be for public comment. Jean Akers, county parks planner, stated: “I think there are a number of different groups out there who are interested. I’ll wait and see who comes on Wednesday.” The county will use residents’ input from the Wednesday meeting and from comments on the expansion project’s web site. The plan that is developed from this input will be presented in a public meeting in December. Online, e-mail and phone comments will be accepted from Oct. 15-29. Check out Lower Daybreak Regional Park Master Plan web site for more information.

Or contact:
Pat Lee, Legacy Lands Program Manager
(360) 397-2375 ext. 4070
Patrick.Lee@clark.wa.gov

Jean Akers, Park Planner
Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation
(360) 619-1120
Jean.Akers@ci.vancouver.wa.us

There have been conversations about making this park a major equine area and it sounds to me like the county is asking us, the horse community, to put our time and money where ‘our’ mouth is. We can start by showing up at the meeting to let them know that we want into the party.

This meeting will be in Battle Ground but it will affect all of the horse community. Even if you are from East County, come and stand up for more horse event and trail areas. Send me an email from ‘post a comment’ if you need directions.

See you there,
Jody Benson

Urban Livestock Hearing Oct 6th

2009-10-05T16:46:00.000-07:00

Just to remind you. Come all who can.

The county is listening to us and we need to make sure they know we are interested in what happens to the horses in this county.
This is the continuation of the meeting we attended in July where the planners were directed to go back and look at the issues again. At that time we asked that they offer an evening meeting so more people could attend.

PUBLIC HEARING: URBAN LIVESTOCK
6:00 PM
Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin Street, 6th Floor

To consider proposed addition of a special uses section of the Clark County Code dealing with Urban Livestock (Clark County Code 40.260.235). Continued from July 21, 2009. Staff Report
Staff: Gordy Euler, 360.397.2280, ext. 4968

Wild Horse Adoption Day

2009-09-17T14:00:00.000-07:00

People considering adopting a wild horse might find their equine matches at one of 35 events taking place nationwide during National Wild Horse Adoption Day Sept. 26.

You can read more about this program in this article from www.thehorse.com.

There are several events in Oregon and Washington. Check them out on the Wild Horse Adoption Day website Event Calendar.

There are several training events being offered in association with these Adoption Days.

Top 10 Exercises

2009-09-17T13:53:00.000-07:00

They say it takes seven falls to make a rider. But there's a lot more to it than that.

Check out this humorous list of 10 simple exercises that will help you become a better equestrian.

10. Drop a heavy steel object on your foot. Don't pick it up right away. Shout, "Get off, Stupid, GET OFF!"

9. Leap out of a moving vehicle and practice "relaxing into the fall." Roll lithely into a ball and spring to your feet.

8. Learn to grab your checkbook out of your purse and write out a $200 check without even looking down.

7. Jog long distances carrying a halter and a carrot. Go ahead and tell the neighbors what you are doing - they might as well know now.

6. Affix a pair of reins to a moving freight train and practice pulling to a halt. Smile as if you are having fun.

5. Hone your fibbing skills: "See hon, moving hay bales is FUN!" and "No, really, I'm glad your lucky performance and multimillion dollar horse won the blue ribbon. I am just thankful that my hard work and actual ability won me second place."

3. Borrow the US Army's slogan: Be All That You Can Be -- bitten, thrown, kicked, slimed, trampled, frozen...

2. Lie face down in a puddle of mud in your most expensive riding clothes and repeat to yourself, "This is a learning experience, this is a learning experience, this is ..."

1. THE NUMBER ONE EXERCISE TO BECOME A BETTER EQUESTRIAN: Marry money.

Free Webcast

2009-09-16T11:32:00.000-07:00

This information came from Washington State University by way of Erin Harwood in our Clark County Extension office

Free Webcast on Bits and Bitting

Learn about the functions of a bit and how to properly select a bit for your horse.

Please join us in this FREE webcast provided by My Horse University and eXtension HorseQuest.

My Horse University and eXtension HorseQuest invite you to a FREE webcast on bits and bitting for horses. Dr. Holly Spooner, an Assistant Professor and Equine Extension Specialist at West Virginia University, will be discussing factors such as bit selection for different stages of training and how a bit functions.

Webcast: Bits and Bitting

Date: September 22, 2009

Time: 7:00 P.M. EDT

Speaker: Dr. Holly Spooner, West Virginia University

Summary:
Selecting the correct bit for a horse is dependent on a number of factors including the horse's level of training and the rider's experience level. Knowing how a bit functions and distributes pressure on a horse's face is essential for determining what bit is appropriate. This presentation will discuss the difference in direct versus leverage action of a bit, how the diameter and shape of the bit effects the bit's action, and will describe the pressure points on the horse's face that are affected by bits and hackamores. In addition, bit selection for different stages of training and training problems will be discussed.

Space is LIMITED!

Register Today!

The tide may be turning......

2009-09-14T11:15:00.000-07:00

I need to lead off this post by saying that I choose to be an optimist.

People in this horse community have been working for years to open the eyes of the local officials to see the value in making this a more horse-friendly area. For the most part, it has felt like they have been banging their heads against the closed barn door.

I have reasons to believe that someone has been listening to the noise and they are thinking about seeing what may be inside the barn. Corny I know but I think that may be just what is happening.

I am a member of the City of Vancouver Urban Livestock Advisory Group, lead by John T Manley, Senior Planner from Vancouver Community Planning. I am very excited about our conversations. The general direction is that the city is leaning towards looking more favorably at having livestock (both large and small) be part of the community with reasonable guidelines so that we can all remain neighborly. Allowing smaller animals on smaller lots and larger animals on reasonably sized properties with due consideration towards the surrounding neighbors.

In the county area, I have asked to be a part of the the Equestrian Advisory Group. Just reading the previously posted News Release gives me hope that someone has been listening and is starting to see that the horse community does have a real economic impact on the area. With a bit of proactive planning, it would be possible to build this county into a horse mecca and I think that would be so cool. We have a lot going for us already. We just need the 'officials' on board.

I know that all these thoughts are optimistic but as I already said, that is how I choose to look at it. Come join me. Give me your ideas. Dream big. Let's make this "The Premier Horse Community" in the state.

News Release

2009-09-14T11:11:00.000-07:00

Clark County Community Planning
September 14, 2009

Contact: Laurie Lebowsky, Community Planning
(360) 397-2280 ext. 4544, e-mail laurie.lebowsky@clark.wa.gov

Equestrian Advisory Group forming to explore horse opportunities

Vancouver, WA - More opportunities for Clark County horse owners and riders could be identified in coming months thanks to a newly forming committee headed by Laurie Lebowsky of the Community Planning Department.

The seven-member Equestrian Advisory Group will look at topics ranging from trails and events to zoning that could support equestrian-related housing developments.

With an estimated 29,000 horses in local barns and fields, the Board of Clark County Commissioners directed planners to broaden recreational options for equine owners and economic development opportunities for the county. Equestrian activities include trail riding, 4-H open and breed shows, fair court, cow sorting, gaming, dressage, rodeo, drill teams, endurance riding, eventing, hunter/jumper, driving and pack trips.

The group will guide development of the plan to be presented at open houses scheduled in coming months to encourage additional public review and comment.

Three seats are vacant on the Equestrian Advisory Group. People interested in serving on the panel are asked to e-mail laurie.lebowsky@clark.wa.gov or call her at (360) 397-2280 ext. 4544.

Amboy Riding Club Top 10 show

2009-09-11T19:34:00.000-07:00

Amboy Riding Club Top 10 show

Saturday, September 19.

Sign ups at 8:00

Events start at 9:00.

Show located at Amboy Territorial Days Park.

You do not need to be a top ten member to ride.

If you would like to become a top ten member, contact Valerie Lane, with the Clark County Saddle Club, before the show starts to sign up.

$21.00 a rider
$5.00 for time onlys.

Events are:
Speed Barrels
Bi Wrangle
Barrels
Poles

Age Groups:
9 & under
10-14
15-26
27-44
45 & over

Awards to 5th place in each age group.

Questions, call Becky McDougal at 921-5266

Glenwood Fun Ride

2009-09-08T13:20:00.000-07:00

I just got this from our friends up in Glenwood and wanted to share it with you.......

In case you haven't been up there, Glenwood is in the valley at the base of Mt. Adams. A good number of my pictures from their Katchum Kalf Rodeo on Father's Day weekend rodeo have Mt. Adams in the background. It is a beautiful area.

Hope to see you there.

Easy Riders Game Show

2009-09-02T15:06:00.000-07:00

2009 – 2010
SILVER PRIZES SERIES

Cowlitz County Fairgrounds Indoor Arena

SATURDAYS: SEP 19; OCT 17; NOV 14; JAN 23; FEB 20; MAR 20; APR 17 (Make up show, if necessary)

SIGN UPS AT 8 a.m., SHOWS START AT 9 a.m.

$20.00 for the day
All riders are welcome!!!!

Events -
Poles
Speed Barrels
Texas Barrels
“Judges Choice”
(4th event will change at each show)

Age Groups -
Leadline
10 & Under
11-16
17 - 30
31 & Over

Daily Prizes in Each Age Group
$5 Surprise Jackpot Event/Time Permitting (50/50 Split)

Knockdown/No time Rule applies to all Events
Same Horse/Same Rider for Series Awards
Western boots with heel required
Tie for final placing will be broken according to number of shows attended

For more info call Jeanne Kell (360) 274-4915 or Sue Claypool (360) 636-3737

Horse Trailer Rodeo

2009-08-26T10:58:00.000-07:00

Sunday, August 30th
12 noon to 4 PM
Clark County Fairgrounds (follow signs)

Lots of fun!

• Driving Lessons $ 5 donation (Learn how to back successfully!)
• Challenge Course $10 donation (For experienced drivers-prizes in various categories)
• How to load your horse demo
• Emergency Rescue demo
• Trailer like a horse demo
• Informational booths
• Learn about different trailer types
• View trailers for sale
• “Adopt-a-Horse” information

Lunch available

Free Trailer Brake Safety Inspections
Sponsored by: Horse Trailer Restoration

Proceeds from this event support the Clark County Executive Horse Council programs, including: horse rescue, trail maintenance and development and community education

Come join the fun.

Land Use Issues

2009-08-14T15:01:00.000-07:00

We are very busy at the fair this week but I wanted to be sure and let you know about two important updates on land use in our area.

The city’s version is thru community Planning and they have set up an Urban Livestock Advisory Group to work on this issue. To learn more, go to the Urban Livestock web page or to www.cityofvancouver.us/livestock

And in an email from the county:

The county is reviewing policies for rural land uses outside of city limits and urban growth areas. You can have a say in what views are considered by stopping by the “Rural Lands” table at the “River Ramble” activity center at the Clark County Fair, which runs through Aug. 16. County staff will be there to answer questions about the project and to accept comments from the public. Comments may also be submitted online at http://www.clark.wa.gov/longrangeplan/projects/rural-lands-review.html, where there is a public opinion survey and more project information. Their booth is in the Community Groups building next to the “E” barn, across from the Dairy Women’s milkshake booth.

If you do come out to the fair, be sure to stop by the "Fence Riders" barn and say hi. Poco and I will be there thru Sunday.

The weather

2009-07-29T11:59:00.000-07:00

Well, has anyone noticed any difference out there????

I have made a commitment to not complain about the heat wave that we are experiencing right now but to not notice it and not comment on it wouldn’t be honest.

We have AC so I’m doing fine but my concern has been for our horses.

I’m a relatively new horsey mom – about 10 years – and can be a bit of a worrier because there is just so much that we don’t know about them. We are trying to catch up in 10 years what others have spent a life time learning…..

Now on to this heat stuff -

Do our West Coast horses know how to deal with heat like this?

I know that I don’t really know how. Drink lots of water and don’t move is my best answer for myself. But since that’s not possible, moving slower seems to be the answer. And stay inside as much as possible.

We don’t have an air conditioned barn or even fans set up so trying to figure out what is best for our boys (and the mare) is hard. I have already called our vet 3 times asking about electrolytes, salt and bathing.

What they have told me is to just watch them for sufficient sweating and make sure they have plenty of water. Also that they have assess to salt and trace minerals. I told them I use Horse Guard daily and they said that covers the mineral issue.

When I called yesterday, they said they had brought their horses into the shade about 1:00 so I’m going to do that today. They have shade in the field but just stay out eating. Go figure.

A friend in Texas suggested hosing down their legs and underbelly. The vet office said that sometimes the water stays on them and actually heats them up. A better option is to wipe them down with rubbing alcohol. As it evaporates, it is cooling. I’m going to do that when I bring them in.

That’s about the hints I’ve got. Let me know if you have any to pass along. I’m sure there are other newbies like me.

A piece of good news – Ridgefield Equine Clinic hasn’t had any heat related issues as of mid-morning.

Keep hydrated, in the shade and slow down.

That’s my advice.

Trail Trials

2009-07-24T10:22:00.000-07:00

Just a quick reminder of the Trail Trials tomorrow.

It is out at the Zumstein Family Farm in Woodland. Just being able to ride though their land is a treat and you will have plenty of challenges if you want.

There are 3 classes - Youth 12-17 (helmets required), Adult 18+ and Extreme Trail Horse and there will be prizes awarded in each.

This is the major fundraiser for the Fence Riders (Clark County Mounted Patrol).

Come join the fun -

Just a note: we could still us a few helpers.

Urban Livestock Code

2009-07-17T16:20:00.000-07:00

The Board of County Commissioners will be holding a public hearing this coming Tuesday on the proposed Urban Livestock Code.

I believe some good people worked on this proposal but I believe there are still some questions that need to be asked and explained.

From the Draft of the Urban Livestock Task Force Concepts for Urban Livestock Code dated 3/25/09:
40.260.235 Urban Livestock
Page 2 line 8 -
D. 3. All buildings used for urban livestock shall be legally permitted.

This sentence concerns me because it appears to be a change from the current agriculture building requirements.

As I understand it now, in Clark County, an agricultural building does not need to be permitted through the county building department permit system as long if it is set back 50 feet from the property line.

There are a few other questions that others have asked and I’m hoping that this hearing will get them answered.

As usual, a good showing of horse people lets the Commissioners know that we are interested in what is happening in our county. Unfortunately the hearing is during the day so we need to really work to get people there. If you can’t attend, pass this information on to someone that you think might be able to come.

July 21st, 2009 @ 10am
Public Services Building, Commissioners Hearing Room
6th Floor
1300 Franklin Street
Vancouver, WA

You can read the proposed code and more information about how the task force developed this proposed code on the county webpage.

I'll see you there,

Jody

Rodeo week - day 4

2009-07-02T13:40:00.000-07:00

Today is day two of the rodeo and I only know that because that’s what we talked about in the production meeting this morning. During rodeo week life as we know it stops (by choice mind you) and we gauge our day by what time we have to be out to the grounds and when we can escape to go home to eat lunch and get dressed for that day's performance.

We have a dance every night of the rodeo and last night and tonight we have the fantastic Carrie Cunningham Band. Good music and good friends kept us there so again we didn’t get home until very late. That will be the theme of this week. Hard work and hard play for a whole bunch of people.

Come watch a great rodeo and dance the night away.

First Performance

2009-07-02T13:15:00.000-07:00

The first performance went great. It was our ‘pink day’ and what a show it was. The grand entry went smoothly and I just loved all the pink vet wrap on the horses legs. Our rodeo’s colors are Red, White and Blue of course so with all the pink mixed in, it was very colorful.

Tough Enough to Wear Pink is a day to honor and raise money for the Susan G. Komen fund.

For a week night and the first day of the rodeo, we had a very good attendance. That is especially important this year because our sponsorship money is way down. Just like in the rest of the world, money is tight. A lot of our usual sponsors just didn’t feel like they had the extra money to help support our rodeo. The good side to that is a lot of people are traveling less and looking for something to do close to home so......here we are.

Our Grand Entry was fabulous in pink. The drill team nailed their part and the crowd just loved them. The stage coach was a hit as was little Taylor, the 9 year old that sang the National Anthem for us.

There are a lot of people working this rodeo that do this full time at least in the summer. Our stock contractors and their workers, the judges, the officials, the entertainment and the participants spend a lot of time in their rigs driving to and camping at the various rodeo grounds. It really is an interesting community. They are nice, honest people that love their way of live and we become friends in a few days and look forward to seeing them year after year.

The Clark County Saddle Club grounds become a little city, gathered to have fun and work hard for 4 days every July.

Come and join us.

Final Prep

2009-07-02T12:48:00.000-07:00

The final prep before the first performance is always a VERY busy day.

The tough signs are put up.

The last bit of decorating is completed.

Our announcer, Al Parson, is now here so we can practice the grand entry one last time to check on the timing.

The ‘infield’ starts to fill up with our crew - workers that don’t want to drive home each night and participants that don’t want to trailer their horses in each day. A lot of the committee stay here too because sometimes there is very little time to run home for whatever and if there is any extra time, they want to use it for a nap instead of driving time.

And next is:
SHOWTIME

Vancouver Rodeo - Day 2

2009-07-01T13:02:00.000-07:00

Well it should have been day two if your keeping count but today is day 3 - showtime.
We didn't make it home until 11:30 last night trying to get vendors in and tents up and decorations up and and and. There is just a lot of stuff to get done to prepare for a rodeo.
Things were going pretty well and we were just about closing everything down about 10:00 when a truck and trailer drove in with a HUGE tractor. Halton Tractor is a sponcer and they had already delivered a skidsteer and a mini excavator but we had been waiting for a tractor that they were going to loan us to show off in the arena. It came at 10:00. And it was huge and we had to stay to help them get it off the trailer and put it away. And then with a little bit of 'boys playing with big toys' going on, we were VERY late getting home. Just stuff that goes on during rodeo week.
I got some fun pictures but will have to get them up later today, I hope.
We are home now to shower, eat lunch and get dressed for tonight's opening show.

Today is 'Tough Enough to Wear Pink' day so I'm ironing special shirts and most of the cowboys will be wearing pink. Come on out and join us.

Rodeo week day 1

2009-06-29T22:36:00.000-07:00

Because I am totally consumed with the Vancouver Rodeo this week, I'm going to walk you thru it with me.
Dennis is "Ted" this year so he was out at the Saddle Club about 9:30 this morning. He was there to check on some stuff and just hold some hands as people start moving in for the Rodeo that starts on Wednesday.

It is a great show because there is a bunch of work that goes on all year. But the rubber hits the road the week or so before rodeo starts when grand entry practice goes into high gear and the Saddle Club grounds get spiffed up.

Today the fence came so it is literally taking shape now.

Howells brought the stock in today, our announcer, Al Parsons, rolled in and a bunch of people have set up their live-ins for the week.

We spent the evening watching Pennie direct the grand entry practice complete with flags, stage coach and the National Anthem.
The show starts at 7:00 PM on July 1st at the Clark County Saddle Club, 10505 NE 117th Ave., Vancouver, WA

You can get your tickets just before the show but to save yourself some time, get your tickets online. The ticket office will be open all day tomorrow also.

It will be a good show.
Come join us.

Sorting Party

2009-06-26T11:37:00.000-07:00

We had an end of the year sorting party out at Silver Buckle last night and it was a blast.

Horses, friends, food and fun.

The sorting has been very laid back and just fun. Great for newbies and seasoned alike. It has been a good place to try a horse on cows for the first time, to socialize (a term we used with our Guide Dog Puppies) young horses and to just get out for some exercise at least once a week. We have all gotten to be good friends so the visiting has been a bonus.

This was the last regularly scheduled sorting for the summer but Silver Buckle recognizes that we are having too much fun so they are offering sorting on a reservation basis thru July and August. Call out there by noon on Wednesday and if there are 10 people that commit to sorting that Thursday, they’ll have the cows available. So it is 5 teams or $200 to schedule a night of sorting.

With all that is going on out there this summer, that is a generous offer and a bunch of us are going to take them up on it. I’m guessing that there will actually be sorting most Thursday nights. So call to make your reservation by noon on Wednesday, sign in and pay your $20 starting at 6:30 and be ready to sort by 7:00. And join a really friendly and fun group of people.

Did you see the new picnic table and fire pit? Good times.

Speaking of lots of activity out at Silver Buckle, remember they are having some really fun camps out there for kids this summer. The camps are filling up fast so check them out on their website calendar

Summer Session at Silver Buckle

2009-06-16T16:21:00.000-07:00

From Maryjo Turnbull, Program Manager at Silver Buckle:

Go Morning Everyone!

I would like to thank all of you for your support of Silver Buckle Ranch, by enrolling in our weekly riding programs and other programs.

Our 2009 Spring Session Ends this Saturday June 20th. We will start our 2009 Summer Session Beginning the week of July 06, 2009.

We will be offering weekly riding lessons for the same rate ($10.00 per week) for our 8 week summer session. If you have pre-paid for a lesson package and have not completed those lessons by June 20th, your lessons will roll over to the Summer Session until you use your package is used up.

Weekly lessons will be offered during the summer Monday-Friday at 4:30 or 6:00 pm. There may be other times available. We will try to be as flexible as possible.If you would like to get your name on the list please just send me an email or give me a call and we will get you scheduled!

We still have some camp spots open

Youth Camps ages 8-16

July 6-10
Firm Foundation Camp: 1 spot open.
July 13-17
Firm Foundation Camp: Full
July 27-31
Need for Speed Camp: 2 spots open
August 24-28
Cow Chase Camp: 1 spot open

Pony Camps Ages 4-7

July 6-10 - FULL
July 20-24 AM: 2 spots open
July 20-24 PM: 8 spots open
August 17-21 AM: 5 spots open
August 17-24 PM: 5 spots open

Summer volunteer Opportunities
We have several opportunities open for enrolled youth ages 12 to Adults.
If you would like to help out this summer there are many great jobs from taking care of horses to working with kids or even taking care of the little critters in the petting area.

Volunteer Training
Saturday June 27th
9AM to 3PM - lunch is included
Please register in advance if you would like to attend this training!!

Hope to hear from you all soon !!

Mj

Maryjo Turnbull
Program Manager

SILVER BUCKLE RANCH
www.silverbuckle.org
360-260-8932

Another Important Issue

2009-06-12T08:02:00.000-07:00

When it rains, it pours.

We have another very important meeting coming up –
Tuesday, June 19th at 10am
Public Service Center
1300 Franklin Street, Vancouver
6th floor hearing room
Public testimony allowed

At this meeting, the county commissioners will decide if they will lay off 2 Animal Control officers. These two particular officers have been instrumental in bringing around the horse care in our county and we need them to remain in their positions.

This actually is a two fold request.

One is that you attend this meeting if at all possible but if you can’t,

Please send an email to the commissioners in support of Officers Trish Kraff and Tippy Rutherford.

This email from Pat Brown explains the issues very well:

We realize lots of people work at this hour, but if you can be present please come to support our animal control officers of Clark County.

The department cannot function at the excellence it has been with only three officers. We fear our horse-related programs will be greatly affected by this cutback and all the great progress we have made for neglect prevention of horses in this county will be impeded. The adopt-a-horse program takes in only horses that are involved in Animal Control neglect cases, and the proposed facilities at the new Human Society of SW Washington building will also exist to provide temporary sanctuary to horses relinquished to Animal Control. Ripley's Horse Aid Foundation relies on our animal control officers to distribute vouchers to horseowners in need. With the drastic cut in manpower it will be difficult for the officers to administer these programs and they are stretched to the limit as it is. This cutback is also going to greatly affect response times to dog bites and dog attacks.

And from a previous email –

This is a plea to the horse community to please contact the county commissioners immediately, leave messages and e-mails to all county commissioners ( website, or phone 397-2232 ) and Bill Barron, County Administrator (397-2232).

Our animal control department is in danger of losing two excellent officers who have stepped in for the defense of the horses. We’ve already lost one, Patrick Higbie, now we are in danger of losing Trish Kraff and Tippy Rutherford. We work extensively with Officer Carrie Martin but she cannot carry the department without the help and support of Officers Kraff and Rutherford. We have come such a long way with horse protection in our county and have succeeded in helping so many horse owners and placing neglected equines in good homes.

As an agency Animal Control receives over 10,000 calls for service a year. They respond to cruelty/neglect, injured animals, running at large, licensing, vicious animals, dog bites, bite quarantines, and monitor the potentially dangerous and dangerous dogs in the county and city.

Animal Control generates income through licensing and citations. They have educational programs including cruelty prevention and bite prevention.
Animal Control services are provided at a much lower cost than law enforcement and are a value to the taxpayer.
Animal Control keeps the criminal court system from being overloaded with animal related cases.
Animal Control is essential to the functioning of the community and an absolute necessity to keep the public safe.

There are currently 5 full time animal control officers for a population of over 400,000 people and their pets. Animal Control already lost the Lead Animal Control officer, Animal Control Officer Patrick Higbie, and the pet license officer. The current staff is stretched to the limit and the loss of Tippy Rutherford and Trisha Kraff would be devastating to the community.

What the commissioners may not realize and need to hear is that other county agencies in the state are contacting us for information to instill the Ripley’s Horse Aid Foundation program and Adopt-a-Horse program in their counties because it has worked so will here. Carrie Martin, Trisha Kraff, Tippy Rutherford, the Clark County Executive Horse Council, and Ripley's Horse Aid Foundation have brought a great deal of positive recognition to Clark County by coming together to implement this model program for dealing with the ever increasing problem of horse cruelty and neglect. These agencies are requesting assistance with developing programs modeled on the Clark County program to deal with the overload of animal neglect.

Why undo all of the positive changes that Animal Control has made by cutting staff?
With the current economic situation, Clark County should be adding Animal Control officers as opposed to laying the officers off. While the economy has fallen, animal related problems have increased.
The animal owners of Clark County spend an extremely large amount of money on their pets. The taxpayers and voters of Clark County deserve to have an adequately staffed professional Animal Control Department.

The county is experiencing budget cuts but the decision is up to them where to make the cuts and we have to convince them that cutting the positions of these two crucial officers is counter-productive.

Please contact the commissioners and county administrator to share this information with them so they can see that we feel it as vital that we keep continued protection of our horses and other precious animals in our county. Clark County has one of the best animal control agencies in this state and in the state of OR, as far as providing protection against horse neglect…let’s not allow them to step backwards!

Results of Planning Commission meeting

2009-06-12T07:57:00.000-07:00

I received this email from the President of WTRA -

Tonight I could not be prouder of the 40 men and woman who attended the City of Vancouver Planning Commission meeting to speak against the proposed development code amendments related to urban livestock.

Over 24 people spoke up giving well thought out, meaningful testimony to the value horses bring to the lives of their family and community. What was said tonight had an impact.

The planning commission sent back the proposed changes to the City of Vancouver planning department with recommendations of striking out the one acre per animal requirement and advising them to reach out to some of the groups represented to establish whether the current requirement of one acre for smaller animals was viable.

Sometimes what we say and how we say it makes a difference. Tonight it did.

Proud of all of you
Barbara Thomas

Way to go people. We did good.

This is just round one. I'll keep you updated on the progress and future meetings. This is of greatest concern to those of us in the Urban Growth Boundary but it does effect everyone within the horse community in one way or another.

Jody Benson

Urban Horses

2009-06-04T10:24:00.000-07:00

Very Important Meeting:
Tuesday June 9th
7:00 PM
Vancouver City Council Chambers

The City Council is scheduled to APPROVE a proposed amendment to the development codes relating to the keeping and raising of livestock such as horses, bovine, pigs, sheep, goats, llamas etc. that will effect folks within the city limits now and those within the Urban Growth Boundary as the city annexes those areas.

The 1st change is the definition of domestic animal (VMC 20.150) which currently limits this definition to dogs, cats and other pets.

Under the new proposal, farm animals will be classified as a domestic animal.

Some of the concerns are not directly related to the proposed changes but would come into play because of current codes for ‘dogs and cats’.

1) Domestic animals which would now include cows and horses under VMC 8.24.180 2 c requires the owner to provide a barn or other enclosed structure sufficient to protect the animal from wind, rain, snow or sun and which has adequate bedding to protect against cold and dampness.

Lean-to’s would not be sufficient anymore. Additionally, enclosed structures require building permits and must follow the adopted international building codes. The proposed, but not adopted, county animal control changes directed toward farm animals only require access to basic shelter for two hours per day, not enclosed and there were no acreage requirements.

2) VMC section 20.912.060 prohibits electric or barbed wire fences. There is no indication that there will be any exemptions on this requirement for cows and horses.

3) Peope that work with animal control on horse rescues believe that this change has the potential to flood animal control with ‘created’ work when they need to be out rescuing the horses that are really in need of help.

The 2nd change comes under the general requirements for land for each bovine, horse, goat, sheep, llama or similar large farm animal.

Previously the ordinance read that a minimum of one acre is required for each farm animal and an additional 10,000 square feet must be provided for the second. This now will read that a minimum of one acre is required for each and every farm animal.
Section 20.930.020 allows for nonconforming use status (grand fathered uses). This lays the burden upon the property owner that they legally had the allowable number of horses on their property when under Clark County jurisdiction. The examples of proof include copies of building or land use permits or maps or some type of demonstration that the use was established before annexation.

This code does not clearly establish how livestock owners will be able to prove (for example) that they had 2 horses on 1.75 acres of land.

There is also an existing code that states “where a nonconforming use is discontinued or abandoned for one year, the nonconforming use status of the land shall be eliminated". This could mean that if your second horse on 1.75 acres dies or is lame you have one year to replace that horse or you will never be allowed to have two horses on your property again.

With these proposed changes in mind, these are some things that need to be addressed:

Stables are not allowed within the city limits. Would this mean that any established stable would not be allowed to add on to what they have and if they have a fire they would not be allowed to re-build?
How do we establish that we have X amount of horses on our land while in the county so that we can be grandfathered in?
How do we keep our cows/horses inside our property without electric fencing or barb wire?? Is the city going to specify what a "barn" or proper shelter is for each horse or cow?

From the city’s point of view, the most important question we can ask them is how does the restrictions on the present rural community equate to a diverse experience that the City of Vancouver finds important? They need to recognize that there are urban areas and rural areas within the urban growth boundary and they need to have planning regulations that recognize both types of land use.

If you can’t attend or even if you do, a letter sent to Long Range Planning,
attn: John Manley, Senior Planner, 487-7948, would give them some idea of where we are on this issue and that we do find it very important and not as the staff report states: John Manley’s staff has determined (these changes)... Non-Significance (DNS).

This may not directly affect you and your property but I believe that it does affect the livablitly of our county and the horse community as a whole and is a meeting that everyone needs to attend.

It is especially important for those folks in the urban growth area to attend because it would be a very significant change. Check here to see if you in the UGB.

And be sure to wear something horsey so they know real well who we are. Dennis and I will be wearing our cowboy hats.

Remember:
Tuesday June 9th at 7:00 PM
Vancouver City Council Chambers

Meeting agenda

Adopt-A-Horse Benefit Dinner

2009-05-28T07:37:00.000-07:00

Make plans to attend a fun event tomorrow evening and help out a worth while project at the same time.

The CCEHC is hosting the Adopt-A-Horse Benefit Dinner tomorrow night at the Clark County Saddle Club. The dinner will be pulled pork on a bun with sides and beer and wine will be available for purchase. During the evening, you will enjoy musical entertainment, a DJ and a silent auction that will be exceptional because these ladies are great at finding really good items. There will also be a raffle for a 5day/4night cruise and one for a set of tack decorated with turquoise and silver by Tina Olsen.

All of that and you will be helping local horses and their foster homes. The Adopt-A-Horse program was created to assist area horses that are in dire need and have been relinquished to the County Animal Control. CCEHC has a network of homes throughout the county that will foster these unfortunate horses until forever homes can be found. Some of these homes can provide the home and caregiving but need financial assistance for the maintenance of these extra horses and that’s where the Adoption program comes in. That group, mainly Lori Harris and Pat Brown, are continually working at raising funds to support this program that assists with feed and supplies for these horses in their foster homes.

Ok that is the why. Now here is the where:
Clark County Saddle Club
10505 NE 117th Ave
Vancouver, WA
Friday May 29th
6:00 pm
Tickets: $15.00 donation per person.

For more information contact Lori Harris – 360-798-3515
Clark County Executive Horse Council

Watch out for stolen clothing -

2009-05-26T11:28:00.000-07:00

This is an email that was just forwarded to me and I thought this would be an effective way to pass on the information.

- If the price seems to be too good to be true, it was probably stolen -

To Our Horse Community Friends

The Hobby Horse Clothing Co. warehouse in Chino, CA was robbed late on
May 22/early May 23rd, 2009.

Thieves made off with approximately $250,000 worth of chaps and show
tops. More than 300 pairs of our popular PMS split leather chaps were
stolen; they had been delivered from our customs broker less than 12
hours earlier. No attempt was made to enter our offices; no computers or
electronic equipment in the warehouse was taken. The thieves appeared to
only be after our chaps and more expensive garments.

My employees and my company are jeopardized by this robbery; we lost
inventory, including Limited Edition garments that cannot be replaced,
that would provide the cash flow to continue our business operations. We
will survive, but this is a serious setback.

I am asking for the help of horse community members in advising me if
they come across ANY strange offers on Hobby Horse apparel. We have not
yet completed an inventory of stolen items but will shortly. We will
post a notice on our website at www.hobbyhorseinc
. com regarding items that were stolen. A
reward will be offered for information in this case.

PLEASE contact me if you suspect someone is sellling our stolen
inventory. We will immediately contact our local police for their
follow-up. Most thieves are never caught, but Hobby Horse chaps and show
apparel is such distinctive apparel to try to fence, we may have a
chance of possibly recovering some of our inventory.

I also ask for your patience and understanding as we work through this
disruption; we appreciate your business more than ever in this tough
time. We'll do our best to fulfill your orders; we know you count on us!

Thank you, and please share this message with others in the horse
community.

Suzi Drnec
Hobby Horse Clothing Co. President
13775 Stockton Avenue
Chino, CA 91710
800.569.5885
suzi@hobbyhorseinc. com

Old Farmer's Advice

2009-05-26T09:27:00.000-07:00

Not old farmers -

but I've got to show you where Dennis and I were riding this past weekend. We are up in the hills above Lyle, Washington with Oregon and Mt. Hood in the background.

It was an awesome weekend.

An Old Farmer's Advice:
* Your fences need to be horse-high, pig-tight and bull-strong.
* Keep skunks and bankers at a distance.
* Life is simpler when you plow around the stump.
* A bumble bee is considerably faster than a John Deere tractor.
* Words that soak into your ears are whispered...not yelled.
* Meanness don't jes' happen overnight.
* Forgive your enemies. It messes up their heads.
* Do not corner something that you know is meaner than you.
* It don't take a very big person to carry a grudge.
* You cannot unsay a cruel word.
* Every path has a few puddles.
* When you wallow with pigs, expect to get dirty.
* The best sermons are lived, not preached.
* Most of the stuff people worry about ain't never gonna happen anyway.
* Don't judge folks by their relatives.
* Remember that silence is sometimes the best answer.
* Live a good, honorable life. Then when you get older and think back, you'll enjoy it a second time.
* Don't interfere with somethin' that ain't bothering you none.
* Timing has a lot to do with the outcome of a rain dance.
* If you find yourself in a hole, the first thing to do is stop diggin'.
* Sometimes you get, and sometimes you get got.
* The biggest troublemaker you'll probably ever have to deal with, watches you from the mirror every mornin'.
* Always drink upstream from the herd.
* Good judgment comes from experience, and a lotta that comes from bad judgment..
* Lettin' the cat outta the bag is a whole lot easier than puttin' it back in.
* If you get to thinkin' you're a person of some influence, try orderin' somebody else's dog around.
* Don’t pick a fight with an old man. If he is too old to fight, he’ll just kill you

Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Leave the rest to God.

Equine Survey

2009-05-19T16:10:00.000-07:00

Hopefully most of you have already filled out the Clark County Executive Horse Council Equine Survey but if not, this is your reminder.

It takes all of about 5 minutes and is very important. The last one is several years old and has been a valuable tool but it needs to be updated to reflect the current population.

The results of this survey will enable the horse community to go to the various county offices and agencies and show them what an enormous economic impact we have in the county - politicians and politics go with the most pressure or biggest number. The results will also show that all the horses are not out in Amboy or other outlying areas, they are all over the county.

This information is also used by the news media when deciding what to cover in their reporting, and what twist to put on the story. It has been used when dealing with horse shows, clinicians and vendors. And finally, the numbers can be used by retailers looking to locate stores or to get financing.

The survey asks about the number of horses you own, if you board or keep them at home and the average monthly upkeep. It also asks for the yearly related expenses and if you have purchased a truck and/or trailer from a county dealer in the past three years. The only identifying question is your zip code.

Now, the only way that this will be truly valuable is if ALL of us fill out the survey. I know that when the last survey was put out, there were folks that were reluctant to fill it out because they were afraid that in some form or another, the county would “know where I live and would tax me”. The people who are doing this survey are in the business of doing market research and they know how to make sure all the information is anonymous. All they want is an accurate as possible count of the horses in the county - this always blows the politians away - and the ENOURMOUS amounts of money that we spend on our horses - another real eye opener for the rest of the folks.

Just click on this link to take the survey.

Now Get ‘R Done and let's put some muscle behind our requests.

(those are our boys this morning while it was still sunny and we do live in the urban area - it just doesn't look like it)

Rescued Mustangs need homes

2009-05-02T10:23:00.000-07:00

I just got this email from the Mustang Heritage Foundation.
Please pass it along.

EXPERIENCED ADOPTERS NEEDED FOR 220 RESCUED MUSTANGS

The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is assisting with the care and placement of 220 Mustangs that were seized from a neglectful situation in Alliance, Nebraska. HSUS is seeking qualified adopters and horse sanctuaries to provide permanent homes for these animals.

The horses have been under qualified care for approximately two weeks and are current on their vaccinations and Coggins. Many of the mares are pregnant or have foals at their side. The majority of these horses are unhandled mustangs. The horses are currently being temporarily housed at the rodeo grounds in Bridgeport, NE, therefore HSUS would like to place them in permanent homes as soon as possible.

Adoptions are being handled by Front Range Equine Rescue on behalf of Habitat for Horses. Interested adopters should contact HILLARY WOOD of Front Range at 719-481-1490.

Contact Information:
Hillary Wood
Front Range Equine Rescue
phone: 719-481-1490
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The ROAM Act

2009-04-30T12:53:00.000-07:00

I just read on The Horse.com that there is some good news in the Wild Horse and Burro front.

H.R. 1018 is a bill aimed at improving protections for wild horses and burros. Yesterday it passed out of the House Natural Resources Committee and is destined for the US House of Representatives. It would prohibit the euthanasia of healthy BLM horses.

Read more about The ROAM (Restoring Our American Mustangs) Act here and here.

Those Little Buggers

2009-04-29T17:40:00.000-07:00

I just got a call this morning to tell me my little bugs are one their way. Around here, that is cause for great joy. The next exciting event is when the little cardboard box arrives. Then it is a daily watch to check for the little buggers. (is that a pun?) When enough of them hatch out of the fly larva, then we take them out to the barn and the pastures and sprinkle them around. Then we watch for the little things flying all over the place.

Does any of this sound familiar? If so, then I’m guessing you use fly predators, have used fly predators or know of someone who does. I believe the ‘haves’ in this group are happy campers cause they are not flapping and swatting at flies all summer.

Now I’ll come clean. We have used Spalding Fly Predators for the past 3 summers and are anxiously waiting for our first shipment for this season. The only time we use fly spray is when we take our horses to the fairgrounds for the 10 days of fair. And maybe when we go ride at Battle Ground Lake if they seem bad that day. We don’t even use fly masks except when we are hauling our horses because we have a stock trailer and I’m worried about hay scarps or something flying into their eyes. Those little bugs really work.

They do not control mosquitoes or horse flies but they do a bang up job on all those nasty things that try to crawl into your mouth or congregate around our horse’s eyes. We have a couple of those old fashioned sticky fly strips hanging over the stalls and they never get full. The amount of bugs you buy depends on the stock that you have. And the amount of stock that is around you. If you had two horses and were neighbors to the race track, these probably wouldn’t work well enough or would cost you a fortune. On a smaller scale, I have heard of some that buy them for their horses and some for their neighbors too just so they keep their fly problem under control. A word of warning – they work best if you can get a jump on the fly season. Once there is a fly problem, it is harder to get it under control.

How it works is that these little bugs exist only to eat out the center of the fly larva. Then they lay eggs in there and those hatch in 5 days and then those hungry little things eat the fly larva and it goes on and on. Because their food is so specialized, they will eventually eat themselves out of a job. To fix that problem, Spalding ships out new bugs each month. You can order them a month at a time or for the whole season like we do. They are actually tiny little wasp like creatures that don't sting and don't bite and they and they stay pretty close to the floor. The light switch for our barn is in Poco’s stall so when I go in to turn it off and I have my headlamp on, I see a few of them fluttering around the light. Turn the light off and the problem is solved.

I was talking to Maryjo out at Silver Buckle and they use them too. In fact, I’m sure there are a bunch of folks around here that do. It’s just something that I don’t hear talked about too much. If you haven’t used them and would like to hear more about how much I like them, send me an email or give me a call. I am a FAN.

PS – if you do decide to try them, tell the folks that you heard about them from me and I’ll get a bonus shipment.

BCH Action Alert -

2009-04-24T06:56:00.000-07:00

RESTORE STOCK ACCESS TO THE PACIFIC CREST TRAIL
COMMENT NOW (The comment period only runs through April)

In 2003, the historic Skyline Bridge over the Suiattle River in the Mt Baker-Snoqualmie (MBS) National Forest was washed away. The Skyline Bridge was a critical crossing for the Pacific Crest Trail in the Glacier Peak Wilderness. In fact, several other bridges were also lost due to the horrific storm damage, though the large span Skyline Bridge was by far the most substantial.

Restoration of stock access through the Glacier Peak Wilderness on the Pacific Crest Trail remains to this day not passable. This truly compromises the stock and hiker purpose of the historic trail. The Pacific Crest Trail is one of the two original trails (the other being the Appalachian Trail) authorized under the National Trails System Act of 1968, making it just about as old as another famous congressional piece of legislation, the Wilderness Act of 1964.

In 2007, the MBS released a scoping letter asking for public comments on what was the best route for restoring access to stock and hikers across the Suiattle River. It was clear that the old Skyline Bridge location was no longer feasible. A new bridge location was identified with strong rock footings on each side of the river bed, but this site was a few miles downriver and would require a new 3 mile reroute segment of the PCT to be built on the south side of the river, and a .5 mile segment on the north side of the river connecting to the Suiattle River Trail, and would also entail abandoning old trail segments along the old Skyline Bridge route. BCHW responded that lacking no other reasonable alternative (the only other combination trail option would have been to use the Milk Creek Trail adding many reroute miles and still relying on a bridge over the Suiattle), we fully supported a new bridge re-sited downriver, and that this was essential to preserving the congressional purpose and integrity of the Pacific Crest Trail.

In 2008, the MBS released a second scoping letter asking for public comments on moving forward with the new bridge and the logistics of the best methods to accomplish this. Again, many BCHW members responded giving support to a Minimum Tool Analysis exemption that would permit the new bridge to be flown into the Wilderness by helicopter and use power rock drills to anchor the bridge. Also, the scoping letter suggested expediting the new trail construction by using chainsaws and a mini-excavator.

We want to very much wholeheartedly thank each of our members who took the time to comment on the 2008 scoping letter. HOWEVER, there are many members that we think missed the opportunity (the comments are listed by person in the EA). Rather than chastise you, we are GIVING YOU ANOTHER CHANCE!!!

The MBS has now posted an Environmental Assessment (EA) on their website with a 30 day comment period further defining the input received in the 2008 scoping letter. DO YOU WANT THE PCT TO REMAIN A STOCK TRAIL? Hikers have been able to use the rather dangerous footlogs across the river, so we are the most impacted user group. It is time to send in your comments NOW!!!

Alternative 1 – No Action (This is not acceptable as it means no stock passing on the PCT.)
Alternative 2 – Use a helicopter and rock drills for reestablishing a new bridge. ALSO, use chainsaws and a mini-excavator for constructing the new trail access segments.
Alternative 3 – Use a helicopter and rock drills for reestablishing a new bridge. Use traditional non-mechanical methods for constructing the new trail access segments.

BCHW Review:
While Alternative 3 is by far the most appealing from a baseline Wilderness use principle, it would require a much longer period to implement than using chainsaws and a mini-excavator and would require much more rock blasting. Based on overall impacts as the MBS analysis shows, the use of chainsaws to complete 3.5 miles of new trail is clearly justified. The use of a non-handheld tracked mini-excavator is more debatable, but we think when you look at weighing the short term use of this excavator over multi-season blasting and large camps for user crews, the MBS has made a good argument for utilizing this piece of equipment.

We therefore recommend the following (include in your words in your comments):

1. Alternative #1 (no action) of the Pacific Crest Trail Repair Suiattle River Crossing Environmental Assessment is not an option. Access for the Pacific Crest Trail across the Suiattle River must be re-established by construction of a new bridge in a sustainable site – as identified in Alternatives #2 and #3. A new bridge is the only safe solution both for stock users and for hikers trying to cross the river.

2. Alternative #2 is our preferred option. A new bridge must be constructed and moved to the site Using pack stock to move materials for the new bridge is not feasible as even the Suiattle River Road is washed out and there are no other access options. Use of a helicopter to move materials is fully justified, and no landings of the helicopters in the Wilderness will occur. Power rock drills are the most functional method to anchor the bridge. The significant amount of new trail construction to access the bridge site justifies the use of chainsaws. The savings in impacts from rock blasting, stump removal, and large crew impacts justifies the use of a mini-excavator.

3. Alternative #3 is our less preferred option. It does replace the bridge as in Alternative #2 – and that is the most critical component. However, without considerable resources, it would make the new trail construction much more difficult and drag it out over a number of seasons.
SEND IN YOUR SUPPORT NOW!!! Your names will be joining the dedicated names of our members who have acted in prior years (published in the EA Pages 47-48) and whom we hope will follow up with another comment in this third year of this effort. Show your support for stock use in Washington State on the Pacific Crest Trail.

Send your comments to Dawn Erickson, Team Leader, Darrington Ranger Station or by mail to Dawn Erickson at 1405 Emens St, Darrington WA 98241

The full Environmental Assessment and materials can be found at the Mount Baker Snoqualmie website .

New Signature Event

2009-04-20T16:09:00.000-07:00

I'm on my soap box again.
I just read this in a small 'box' in The Columbian this morning:

What is Vancouver's New Signature Event?
Without Vancouver's annual fireworks extravaganza, what will be our signature event?
Tell what event you think is the highlight of Clark County's social calendar.
E-mail your response to signature-event@columbian.com.
Be sure to include your city of residence, age and phone number.

Ok, so I think the Vancouver Rodeo could fill that hole.

It is already on the July 4th weekend and used to be part of the Vancouver 4th of July events (a few years ago).
There is wide appeal and it is unique for this area. There are two other rodeos but they are not close and they are not as 'home town' as OUR rodeo.

Yes, I am on the Rodeo Committee and we have been talking about how we adjust our event to provide something more for the community in light of the absence of the fireworks display this year.

The other part that I saw when I read that piece was this designation would be a chance for the 'other' folks to see more of the horse community. I know this isn't about all the horse people in the area but it is horse related and would be a great chance for the rest of the folks to recognize that we (horse people) exist and are an economic force here. A lot of local people participate in the rodeo both as contestants and as volunteers. And if anyone wanted to see the economic impact of horses, all they would have to do is look at the infield at the Saddle Club during the rodeo and see all the trucks and trailers not to mention the horses and tack. Even if they do a write up about the ones that are mentioned, if a bunch of people sent in this idea, we could get some really good press for the rodeo and the horse community as a whole.

Harney County, Oregon

2009-04-09T14:58:00.000-07:00

Pat Brown forwarded this post to me thinking that there might be some people reading this blog that either live down in Southeastern Oregon or who know someone who does. It is tough for her to share things like this cause she wants our local people available to help out 'our' horses but the concern for all horses wins out. Good for you, Pat.

Many of you may have heard about the large-scale seizure of neglected horses and cattle that took place in Harney County recently. The Harney County Sheriff seized 45 badly neglected horses. In addition to the animals that were found alive on the property, there were dozens of dead horses and cattle that had apparently been left to starve to death.

The court has ordered all the animals forfeited to Harney County, so now we need to find homes for these horses. They have been fed good-quality hay for over two weeks now, and all appear on their way to recovery.

The selection includes at least eight pregnant mares, two mules, a Belgian stallion, QHs, Arabs, yearlings, two and three year-olds, and older horses. It’s quite a wide selection. Many of these horses are halter-broke and appear to have been ridden. Others are wild as march hares, but are nice-looking young horses. There are also some older animals that appear very quiet and calm. I make no guarantees or promises about any of these animals, except that after what they have been through, they deserve to receive some good TLC for the rest of their lives.

If anyone is interested in providing these animals with a good, loving home, please contact me. I can arrange to have you visit the horses at the location where they are being held.

Thanks!

Scott Beckstead
Senior Oregon Director
The Humane Society of the United States
(541)530-8509
sbeckstead@humanesociety.org

Weather Cafe

2009-04-03T07:51:00.000-07:00

This is from a great Yahoo forum called Weather Cafe. The group message/weather report is sent out twice a week. So far, it has been very accurate and has lots of really good information.

A portion of todays report is especially worth passing on -

Well, patrons, every once in a great while, we PNWn'ers catch a break. The weather for the next WEEK is likely to become one of those surprises - and so very much needed for our region.

That little window of nice wx that was anticipated may open enough to allow for several days of great wx conditions across the PNW starting later today. The upper low expected on Sunday is now modeled to be weaker and track south off the coast (some moisture may back-spin up into southern OR, but not too wet). This pattern will keep a high pressure ridge in place, with MILD and DRY conditions lasting until Thursday, Apr 9. Temps will climb up into the warmest of the year. Soils will have time to dry down, so get those tractors primed and plants ready. It's time to farm. (my emphasis)

A big THANK YOU to Rufus for keeping us informed.

A Horsey Weekend

2009-03-25T17:40:00.000-07:00

I have had my horsey fix for awhile. Maybe not, but going to the Northwest Horse Fair and Expo in Albany for all 4 days certainly gave us a horsey high. ‘Albany’ is so much fun. We have now been in the horse community long enough to have a lot of ‘horse’ friends and a good share of them came down so we had a chance to visit and catch up. And we always make new friends.

This year we stayed in a hotel right by the expo grounds and the hotel was full of horsey people. We rode the elevator up with two couples that were there supporting their friend in her participation in the Mustang Makeover. They were in the room next to us. Peggy Brown was across the hall. In the breakfast room we visited with friends from Vancouver and visited with a lady that noticed Dennis’ Vancouver Rodeo vest and said she didn’t know about it but wanted to come. Another lady just walked up and started visiting (I don’t know of anyone who does stuff like that) and said she loved coming to Albany to see her once a year friends. We shared our breakfast table with the rep from Bloomer trailers. He was from Idaho, had a big handlebar mustache and a starched red western shirt with big white ‘Bloomer’ embroidered all over it. We rode the elevator with a guy wearing a Farnum ball cap. I said I had one just like it and he said it was from him because he designed them and passed them out. I got it at a winter feed workshop at a feed store in Pendleton. And it went on and on. Horse people everywhere. I was in heaven. Maybe if you have been around horses all your life, this wouldn’t be such a big deal. We just got our horses when we turned 50 (I just turned 60) and I have loved horses all my life so I am living a dream. And totally enjoy hanging out with horse people so this weekend was a blast.

We got to watch almost everyone on the schedule for at least a little bit and all of the clinicians were top notch. Craig Cameron was entertaining as usual and the Extreme Cowboy race was a hoot. My friend, Leeann Vanderpool from Washougal rode in it on Thursday night and Barbara Corigliano from Brush Prairie rode on Friday. They did quite well and a cowgirl won! Craig is very big on traditional cowboy ways and values and I really appreciate that. Just like Silver Buckle says - part of their mission is to teach 19th Century values to 21st Century kids. We could all use more of that.

We watched a bit of Kay Meredith on Sunday and she was wonderful. We are not Dressage people but her extensive knowledge and the two very accomplished horses (one was Grand Prix level) and riders gave a good demonstration of some of the movements as she explained their original purpose. They were maneuvers that were used in war to keep horse and rider alive. In close contact fighting the Piaffe (trot in place) and the Passage (trot very slow) were used in close contact fighting and then the extended trot was used to get the heck out of there. I don’t want to offend any of the dressage people with my oversimplification but her explanations were geared to people like me and I enjoyed it. (I just hope I got the names right) Kay had them come across the arena doing a half pass from several directions so everyone could see the beauty of the foot falls from the judge’s viewpoint, both coming and going. Watching those white wrapped legs cross each other was stunning.

I took in a lecture by Peggy Brown on “Good Hands”. That was very enlightening. She did a very good demo with reins tied to a chair back and then having someone hold the reins and play the part of the horse and what ‘the horse’ could feel through the reins.
Steve Rother had a huge audience and was entertaining while being a great teacher. Remember that he is having a clinic this weekend in Washougal hosted by Leanne of Eastwind Stables. The Friday Eve demonstration is from 7pm - 9pm and the tickets are $10 (buy one get one free) Click here for more information.

And the Mustang Challenge was awesome. Be sure to read about it in Wendy’s blog.

I thought the venders were very good this year. As usual, Coastal had a bucket and scoop giveaway so everyone was carrying around little black buckets. Those suckers are really handy. A lot of the feed venders had coupons and really cheap wormer. A good place to get your years supply. There were metal artists and tons of trailers to look at and drool over. There were a lot of tack venders and people with fun horsey clothes so there was a lot to look at and some bargains to be had. A custom hat maker out of central Oregon was there and it was fun visiting with him. BCH was there of course with their dedicated volunteers. There were several equine insurance specialists and rescue organizations, some saddle companies and supplement and feed reps so there were a lot of brains to pick and a place to get all your questions answered. Add to that, lots of specialties – leather workers, magnetic therapy, irrigation methods, potions for our tack and our hands, tractor dealers and of course food! And this didn’t include the rows of stalls to visit.
It is just so fun to walk, and visit and watch all the different horsey clothes that people were wearing. I’ve got to give Brent Skill special recognition in the clothes category. He was all dressed up in his signature Big Hat with a leather vest and an authentic elk hide hand stitched coat with fringe and elk horn buttons made by his wife, Sonia.

It was 4 days of thinking, seeing and talking horse. How much better can it get?

The show was over Sunday night but we stayed until Monday and when we went down for breakfast it was kind of sad. All the horse people were gone………
.

Where is everyone?

2009-03-07T06:26:00.000-08:00

Out and about enjoying their horses, I hope.

I'm back in Plano, Tx with my son and his family. We went down to MD Anderson in Houston for the first recheck for Triann's cancer. Praise God it came back clear and the doctor has extended her next visit from 3 to 6 months.

Preparing for this trip (doing gramma sewing) and being here for 2 weeks has kept me busy. I'm sorry that I have not kept up to date on all the goings on. I'm headed back this coming week and I'll hit the ground running and get back to keeping ya'll updated. (notice the Texas talk?) Oh yes, and my laptop died while I was down here and even Geek Squad couldn't fix it :( so I have been using my DIL's computer. Talk about a wake up call. I do depend on that piece of technology but thankfully I did back it up just before I left but it has really been tough not having it available.

I will add that today is the third day that it has been in the 80's and most of the time down here I have not needed a jacket. Loving it but I am ready to head back and get back to Dennis and our horses and sorting on Thursday nights.

Stay tuned....
And Blessings to you all,
Jody

Foaling Seminar

2009-02-19T22:27:00.000-08:00

Just sending a reminder of the the Foaling Seminar at Ridgefield Equine Clinic Saturday morning from 9-11. There will even be refreshments.

Presented by Meg R. Brinton, D.V.M. and Anne Marie Ray, D.V.M.
20913 NE 15th Ave
Ridgefield WA 98642
360.887.8979
Fax:360.887.3988

Check ridgefieldequineclinic.com for more information.

Upcoming Clinics

2009-02-18T18:19:00.000-08:00

Liz Barnard is offering two clinics this month.

On February 21st she is offering a Trail Clinic. Sue Svendsen will be adding her expertise. The first session is from 9:00 to Noon, this will be an Introduction to Obstacles. For those of you who are new to working trail obstacles this is the place to start. For those who have done trail before, this may be a great way to refine some of the obstacles. From 1:00 to 4:00 will be work on Riding the Course. This is for those horse and rider combinations that are ready to work on navigating between obstacles and working to make the course flow. The WAHSET course will be used. Each session will be $25.00.

February 28th will be an Open Clinic. It will start at 9:00 with Showmanship. At 11:00 will be Rail Work. Lunch is planned for 1:30 to 3:00, then Patterns from 3:00 until 5:00. Lunch is a little late, so bring snacks for a little something after Showmanship.

Dress warm! The arena gets a little chilly on winter days. Spring is a little bit away.

If you have any questions, contact Liz Barnard, www.revelationperformancehorses.com
503.804.6179 cell

2009-02-11T13:59:00.000-08:00

Here are a few upcoming horse activities. These are things that Dennis and I participate in and we are having a ball so I’m inviting you to come join us.

There is sorting every Thursday at the Silver Buckle at 7:00. Sign up starts at 6:00. $20 for 3 goes and we are usually done by 9:00 or 9:30. This is an easy and friendly bunch with some really good cow work.

This Friday, the 13th, Silver Buckle is offering a class to introduce your horse to cows. This will include some basic sorting stuff. The cost for this lesson is $20 per horse. Call Maryjo at 360-260-8932 to reserve a spot.

On February 21st there will be a sorting Clinic and on the 28th is a Sorting Jackpot. Call Maryjo on these also to get the particulars and to reserve your spot.

All of these are great activities to get you and your horse in shape for spring.
It is coming!!!! I can see my lilac bushes coming to life. I know the snow has been pretty but I am ready for spring.

See in the arena,

Jody

Storm damage help

2009-01-30T11:49:00.000-08:00

Property tax relief is available to the owners of properties damaged or destroyed by recent snows or flooding, according to the Washington State Department of Revenue

Property owners can apply to county assessors to reduce the taxable value of affected properties. Relief could include a partial abatement or refund of taxes paid in 2009 and a reduction of future taxes until the property is restored.

To apply for property tax relief in Clark County, the owner must file a Taxpayer's Claim for Reduction of Assessments form together with a Petition for Property Tax Refund with the Department of Assessment and GIS.

These forms are also available through the Clark County Assessor's office webpage or you can call them at 360-397-2391.

Not news to us -

2009-01-24T22:29:00.000-08:00

Activities at Silver Buckle

2009-01-19T14:00:00.000-08:00

I don’t know about you but I am looking forward (way forward) to spring and all the fun stuff. To get there, I need more activity now and so do my horses. Dennis and I don’t show or game. We are just recreational riders and most of that is done during the spring, working calves on a cattle ranch, summer trail rides and gathering cows in the fall. We don’t have a bunch of stuff that we commonly do this time of year so we have to find activities for our boys.

A relatively new option is available now. Silver Buckle Ranch (SBR) is opening up their facilities to all of us – including adults – for cow play activities like sorting and break away roping and just general horse activities. There are instructional workshops and play times to practice. They have also scheduled jack pots and sorting clinics to get together on horseback and just have fun. All of the activities are set up to be fun times, not high pressure competition.

The folks at SBR are also teaching classes about basic horsemanship and horse keeping for those new at this activity and are offering riding classes taught be a CHA Certified Instructor. They are also making their arenas available for rent.

The mission at Silver Buckle Ranch has not changed. Their main focus is still serving the at-risk youth of the community with the premise that ‘Horses change lives’. We all know that, but they are teaching the rest of our community that reality.

To be able to continue to serve those kids into the future, SBR is trying new ways for us to help with the funding by having us come out, pay a little and play a lot with our horses. With the support of our horse community this program can continue to offer help to our county youth and grow into a great place for us to play.

There is a Sorting Jackpot scheduled for Saturday that needs more players. It will be indoors if need be. Give Maryjo a call at 360-260-8932 to reserve a spot and gather a bunch of friends to cheer you on.

What a "Free Horse" costs you

2009-01-19T09:35:00.000-08:00

Some fun stuff to start the week -

A friend gives you a horse...
You build a small shelter...$750
You fence in a paddock...$450
Purchase small truck to haul hay...$12,000
Purchase a 2 horse trailer...$2,800
Purchase 2nd horse...$2,500
Build larger shelter with storage...$2,000
More fencing...$1,200
Purchase 3rd horse...$3,000
Purchase 4 horse trailer...$17,500
Purchase larger truck...$23,000
Purchase 4 acres next door...$38,000
More fencing...$2,000
Build small barn...$18,000
Purchase camper for truck...$9,000
Purchase tractor...$23,000
Purchase 4th & 5th horse ..$6,500
Purchase 20 acres...$285,000
Build house...$185,000
Build barn...$56,000
More fencing & corrals...$24,000
Build covered arena...$182,000
Purchase Dually...$44,000
Purchase gooseneck w/living quarters...$45,000
Purchase 6th, 7th & 8th horse...$10,750
Hire full time trainer...$50,000
Build house for trainer...$84,000
Buy motor home for shows...$125,000
Hire attorney -- spouse leaving you for trainer...$35,000
Declare bankruptcy, spouse gets everything.
Friend feels sorry for you...
gives you a horse.....

Storm Damage

2009-01-12T21:09:00.000-08:00

I found this by way of the 5:00 news this evening that sent me to the blog at http://www.cresa911.blogspot.com/

Clark County Residents Need to Report Storm Damage
Homeowners, renters, and business owners in Clark County who sustained damage from the recent winter storms, flooding, and landslides should report their damage as soon as possible to Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency at (360) 992-9229.
Please call if you had damage to your primary residence or business - vacation homes and outbuildings are not eligible for disaster assistance - that occurred between December 11, 2008 and January 9, 2009 - that was caused by the winter weather, flooding, and landslides - that occurred in this period - that is not covered by insurance.
To report damage, please call (360) 992-9229 between 7 AM and 6 PM, Monday through Friday through Wednesday, January 21st or send an e-mail to cresaemergencymanagement@clark.wa.gov.
Check back on the blog at http://www.cresa911.blogspot.com/ for further updates on damage assessment efforts.

Currently, no disaster assistance is available to disaster victims in Washington State. Emergency management officials are in the process of collecting damage information from families, individuals, renters, business owners, non-profit agencies, and government agencies to determine if there is enough damage within Clark County for it to be eligible for disaster assistance. In order for local communities to become eligible for disaster assistance they have to demonstrate that they suffered damage that is beyond what the community can handle. This is why it is essential for people to report their damage. Reporting damage doesn’t guarantee that assistance will be provided but it does help make the case for receiving federal disaster assistance.

Here is another location with information - http://emd.wa.gov/documents/Dec_2008_ReportYourDamage.pdf

and this is the link to the story carried on KOIN news.

Free to Approved Home

2009-01-10T18:24:00.000-08:00

Pat wanted me to pass on that Anthie, the horse rescue up in Ariel needs to find new homes for their horses. (I sent out a plea to help them dig out back during the snow - some help did come - thank you)

Between personal losses and feed losses and lots of damage from the extreme snow, they wouldn't have enough feed for their rescues to last for the rest of the winter. Because of this dire situation, these horses will be released for free to approved homes.

Contact Anthie @ ridgeriders@tds.net or call 360-231-4380 in Ariel Washington to view these wonderful horses. There are a few remarkable pictures to show how far these horses have come.

Buddy- 6 year old mustang that was gelded and then they attempted to break soon after. It looks like he was roped from behind and they caught a leg and held on anyway. He will not expose his butt to you. He had a girl working with him and he was given to her. She had been working on getting him to trust again when she lost her boarded pasture and had to move her horses, that is how he ended up here. NO shots or wormings here- but I will double check on this to be sure it did not happen during the gelding process??

Sandy- 4 year old brown and white Paint that has been with us for almost 2 years. It was very hard to get Sandy to trust us. When my daughter and I picked her up from the rescue facility in Feb 07, no one was around to help us with her and no one ever checked my references or returned my calls when I had questions concerning her. Anyhow this is what we have come to find out about her: taken from mom,neglected and/or abandoned, sent for slaughter when she was picked up by the people who we got her from in Oregon. To get her out of the mud they attached her to straps and a tractor pulled her out, all of this before being a 2 year old. We had a really tough start but we are making great head way. With so many we just keep plunking away at it all. She just mainly needs someone with more time and not at a rescue or foster type home, she needs to find her family. She will be great I feel it, that is why we have held onto her for so long until the right family is there for her, she loves children. She is also UTD on all, like I said we were making progress-now no time for serious training with being full with the fosters.

Ginger- This is an amazing little girl, almost scheduled to be put down until we took her, we are not sure of the breed, perhaps QH/pony (her age has been guessed at between 2 1/2 and 4 years old by several people including the vet) again we will be having Brian out for a check up again before spring to get a better understanding of her age. We have just left her alone at this point until she reached full weight, she has and grown as well, leaning towards her being almost 3 years old. We have hopes of starting some training this winter or early spring.

Pepper- 4 year old Arab/Pony cross?? This is a wonderful little grey mare. She is so sweet and so willing that we can not believe we had to chase her down to catch her and could not touch any of her legs or her tail or face just 6 months ago. She will make a great little pony for someone. She stands about 14 hands and again is UTD on all.(GK's notes: This one would make a stunning hunter or eventer pony, she is very well built, loves kids and is cute as can be!)

Scootin Balue Moon aka Oreo- 4/8/2006 Registered Blk & Wht Tobiano Paint-Still growing, very outgoing, curious, willing to learn anything new. He will do great where ever he goes. He loves water, has been ponied and saddled and I have been on his back with no kick buck rear, nothing, he just walked around where ever I asked. He will not be started by us until he is a 3 year old, because of his slow start, however he is ready to be placed now and they may start him if they wish, he has had a great growth spurt this summer and I am so pleased with the changes. This cute guy has no issues from where he came from last fall. His sister has now been placed with her forever family as a pasture buddy and family pet for the rest of her days.

Gamma Goat Kid aka Kid- 9 year old Thoroughbred approx. 15.2, not a leader either, a little shy, he will hold back as well until the others are finished at the water or what ever the situation is in the herd. When he arrived, he had paraphamosis of the penis and he is not as cute some say due to the accident we believe came from the starting gates. UTD on all as well, his penis is completely healed, we will have the vet out to do check up to be sure that there is nothing more to be done. (Jan or Feb).

Chip Leader aka Chippers- 6 year old Thoroughbred approx.16.2, extremely sweet nature, has been ridden by myself as well as a few beginners on the trails 6 times now and has done extremely well. From the track, no desire to run for them, they said not aggressive. UTD on all.

Putting together a hay load

2009-01-06T19:05:00.000-08:00

Is there anyone interested in going in on a semi-load of hay? Grass or alfalfa - it could be a split load.

Contact Shannon at 360-597-8011
or
Liz at lizbarnard@hotmail.com

New Years Resolution

2009-01-06T18:42:00.000-08:00

I found this in my in-box and thought I should pass it on as a public service

At this time of year, after the holidays, ads for weight-loss programs saturate print media and the airwaves. Even TV talk shows devote time to the battle of the bulge.

I caught part of a Dr. Phil episode in which the prominent self-help guru was evaluating the situation of one overweight guest. The woman commented that she'd like to buy a horse so she could get exercise via riding. "That's great for the horse," responded Dr. Phil drolly, "but what good is it for you?" Obviously, Dr. Phil has missed out on the cardiovascular workout we women get attempting to get into a sports bra and riding pants.... Clearly, the good doctor doesn't own a horse. At least, not the right horse. A quiet, well-broke, agreeable mount may indeed not offer much in the way of fitness training. But, the right horse (and most of us have owned 1 or 2, haven't we?) will provide a body-building, cardiovascular-enhancing workout t hat would make Richard Simmons envious.

Allow me to explain.... With the right horse, you begin your fitness program by walking out to the pasture. As you stride briskly, you carry the halter and lead rope behind you, pushed up high on your back so the lead doesn't drag. The purpose of this is to tone your chest and upper-arm muscles (because you're not fooling your horse, for he knows what you carry). As you approach to within a few feet of him, he'll walk slowly away from you, but at a pace just so you can't reach him, then stop. This will be repeated several times in succession, until you're ready to jog. At that point, because you own just the right horse, he will trot, then gallop around the pasture. If you're at the advanced level of fitness, you may continue chasing after him for maximum aerobic benefits, or just stop and start throwing rocks at him to give your rotator cuffs a workout. (Make sure you switch throwing arms. Not only is this a benefit to you, your horse will think it hilarious). Beginners may prefer to toss the halter and lead on the ground, bend forward from the waist, and engage in heavy breathing and chanting (that's what we'll call it, anyway -- chanting) as the horse continues to circle the field. For those of you that have experience with this exercise, you may choose to throw the halter and lead, walk briskly, bend, pick up, repeat. When the horse determines you've had enough of this warm-up session, he'll allow you to catch him.

Now comes the total upper-body workout of grooming. The right horse, of course, will be caked in dried mud. The cement-like consistency of it will require work-to-exhaustion effort of your biceps and triceps. NOTE: This exercise has added value, the dried mud will stick to your face with perspiration, instant facial! Next comes the bending, stretching, and toning of hoof-picking. Bend over, pick up the horse's left front foot, then be prepared to jump back as he stomps it back down to the ground, narrowly missing your foot. (Keep your knees bent as you jump, to protect your lower back.) Reach down and pick up the foot again, hopping about with the horse to maintain your grip as you attempt to pick what seems to be dirt mixed with Super Glue from the hoof. Eventually the horse may stand still; you may be chanting by this time. Repeat the entire circuit 3 more times with the remaining feet.

Once you can stand erect again, it's time for the insect repellent exercise. True, with this one, your horse may actually get more of a workout than you do, but you certainly get more of the repellent. It goes like this: Squirt!-circle- circle. Squirt!-circle- circle. Squirt!-circle- circle--- and so on, until you're completely misted with repellent and chanting 'whoa you sonofab... whoa'. To receive maximum benefit from this exercise, make sure you are at the beginning of a deep inhalation during the 'squirt' cycle and exhale after the last chanting 'whoa'.

With the right horse, saddling up provides both aerobic and strength building benefits. The trick is to keep your feet moving as you heft the saddle blanket over and over (and over), trying to keep it in place on a moving target. The blanket exercise warms you up for the saddle exercise, for which the routine is the same, only the weight is much greater -- perfect for buffing those hard-to-tone shoulder muscles.

Now comes the mounting exercise. With the right horse, it's left leg up, hop-hop-hop, left leg down, heavy breathing. Left leg up, hop-hop-hop, left leg down, heavy breathing. For balance, go around to the other side and continue the exercise (right leg up, hop-hop-hop, heavy breathing, right leg down, heavy breathing, etc.). When your heart rate begins to exceed your target range, look for a bucket. Bend over, pick it up, place it upside-down next to t he horse, wait for the horse to move away, then bend over, pick it up again, place it next to the horse, and so on. NOTE: This is a cooling down routine, not to be confused with the warm up pasture routine. When the horse deems you've had enough of these repetitions, he'll stand still and allow you to actually mount.

At this point, of course, you'll be too exhausted to ride and your facial mask will be dropping off in chunks. It’s best not to overdo it, so dismount, grab a glass of wine, and head in to recover in a bubble bath.

Author unknown

Winter Lecture Series

2009-01-05T18:37:00.000-08:00

Ridgefield Equine Clinic will be offering the 2nd in their 3 part Winter Lecture series on Saturday January 17th.

Meg Brinton, DVM will be speaking on artificial insemination.
A representative from Land O’ Lakes Purina feed will talk about Feeding the Senior Horse. They will also cover some basic nutrition information.

The 3rd lecture, on February 21st will be “Foaling 101”.

Coffee and goodies are at 9:00 with the lectures begining at 9:30.

Horse Lovers Haven

2008-12-27T20:11:00.000-08:00

In case you haven't met her yet, let me introduce you to Barb Berg. She owns Horse Lovers Haven in Longview. She is a very nice lady and is a good friend to our community. She is very willing to donate items for local raffles and has sponsored the Vancouver Rodeo Queen for several years. Take a little drive and go out to support her when you can.

Gigantic Clearance Sale

January 2nd thru January 10th

I will be going to the Denver Market to find new inventory which means this stuff’s got to go!
Everything will be marked 30% - 50% off!!!
All sales will be final.

Remember, trying to get new inventory in……

PS - this is NOT a going out of business sale.

Horse Lover’s Haven
1414 Commerce Avenue
Longview, W A 98632
(360) 636-4447
(877) 636-4447
horselovershaven@comcast.net
New store hours 10 am to 6 pm

The Warmth of a Horse

2008-12-19T21:23:00.000-08:00

When your day seems out of balance

and so many things go wrong ...

When people fight around you

and the clock drags on so long ...

When some folks act like children

and fill you with remorse ...

Go out into your pasture and wrap

your arms around your horse.

His gentle breath enfolds you as he

watches with those eyes ...

He may not have a PhD but he

is, oh so wise!

His head rests on your shoulder

you hug him good and tight ...

He puts your world in balance

and makes it seem all right.

Your tears will soon stop flowing,

the tension will be eased ...

The nonsense has been lifted.

You are quiet and at peace.

So when you need some balance

from the stresses in your day ...

The therapy you really need

Is out there eating hay!

~~ author unknown ~~

Western Lifestyles

2008-12-11T15:29:00.000-08:00

Kodi Schram and Pat Borland are teaming together to bring us furnishings and home décor at their new store, Western Lifestyles. It will feature the functional western art and furnishings of Pat Borland.

Many of you know Pat as a local horse shoer and blacksmith. What many of you may not know is that this man is incredibly talented and is making furnishing and décor pieces out of old barn wood (80 to 130 years old), horse shoes (of course), branding irons and nails. I have seen a few of his creations and they are top notched. As nice as anything I have seen online, in catalogs or the lifestyle stores in Houston and Dallas. No kidding folks, we have a true artist in our midst and we are fortunate to have the items available to us locally.

Some of the items that will be available are picture frames and frame and buckle holder combos and mirrors, coffee tables and kitchen tables, clear up to a 6 ft hutch. Custom work is also available. If you have an idea that he hasn’t thought of, bring it in and he’ll work with you to create your special piece.

They plan to eventually carry tack again. YEA!!

They will open their doors for the first time this Saturday from 10:00 to 6:00. Their hours thru Christmas will be everyday from 10:00 to 6:00. They will be closed on Sundays after Christmas.

The store is located at 7620 NE 219th Street in Battle Ground, WA. That is just East of Dollars Corner on SR 503. Their phone number is 360-687-2479.

It will be nice to have a local store again. Let's support them as best we can.

Great Christmas Activity

2008-12-11T10:55:00.001-08:00

Live Nativity Play
presented by
The SW WA Jr. Backcountry Horsemen
Friday December 12th @ 7:00 PM

Son Rise Ranch
24003 N E 44th St. Vancouver, WA 98682

The ranch is located on the corner of 242nd Avenue. It is
half way between Orchards & Camas on SR 500 near MP13

This will be a 30 minute program followed by a party from 6:00 to 8:00 pm.

Celebrate the season by joining us for this annual event! Featuring live animals & actors that take you back through time to experience the greatest event of the ages. Music, candles in motion, caroling, bake sale and petting zoo.
Fun, fun, fun!!!
Bring your cameras & See ya there!

For more info: Call Miss Pam (360) 834-9103

Lost Grandma -

2008-12-09T06:56:00.000-08:00

This has nothing to do with horses but it was so cute I just had to share it.
And it does have to do with me.

My online signature -
Gmajody (grammajody)

Lost grandma

The computer swallowed grandma.
Yes, honestly its true!
She pressed 'control and 'enter'
And disappeared from view.

It devoured her completely,
The thought just makes me squirm.
she must have caught a virus
Or been eaten by a worm.

I've searched through the recycle bin
And files of every kind;
I've even used the Internet,
But nothing did I find.

In desperation, I asked Jeeves
My searches to refine.
The reply from him was negative,
Not a thing was found 'online.'

So, if inside your 'Inbox,'
My Grandma you should see,
Please 'Copy, Scan' and 'Paste' her
And send her back to me.

This is a tribute to all the Grandmas and Grandpas
who have been fearless and . ....

learned to use the Computer... ....

The way of horses -

2008-11-27T11:00:00.000-08:00

I want you to know that this horse was OK.

I got this in an email from a friend this morning as I'm watching Dennis cook our Thanksgiving dinner. The writer seemed to not understand why Gracie got into this predicament. I think it's just what horses do. If there is something that can go wrong - they will find it. This proves it.

The young filly needed to be freed from the tree after curiosity got the better of it and it wedged its head between separate sections of the trunk. The horse, called Gracie, was unable to free itself and could have been in danger were it not for a passer-by who was able to come to the rescue after he heard the horse whinnying. Jason Harschbarger, a neighbour in the town of Pullman , West Virginia , USA , arrived at the scene which resembled the image of Winnie the Pooh getting stuck in the honey tree. Mr Harschbarger collected his tools and was able to carefully set the horse free by using a chainsaw to slowly cut the wood around its neck. However, before he did so, he was able to take a few photographs. Fortunately for Gracie, she was able to escape her ordeal with only a few minor injuries and, according to Mr Harschbarger, is on the road to recovery. Following his rescue operation, Mr Harschbarger told a local television station: "She has a few cuts on her face and ear. "Last I heard her jaw was a little dislocated but I think it is healing up and she can eat on her own again." It remains unclear why Gracie put her head into the gap.

Help Needed

2008-11-25T16:04:00.001-08:00

I’m guessing that most of you locals know about the Clark County Fair Mounted Patrol aka Fence Riders. Dennis and I have been part of this fun group for about 8 years and they are a kind and generous group of people. This generosity goes overboard at Christmas time.

For the last 3 years we have ‘put on’ a Christmas Roundup for disadvantages children in conjunction with Cowboy Church and the Clark County Saddle Club at the Saddle Club.

The roundup is a day to show these kids and their families what cowboys are all about. There is a grand entry, demo of calf roping and barrel racing, a place for them to try their hand at roping, crafts, a wagon ride and other ‘Western’ activities. The two highlights of the day are a chance to ride a horse and a visit with Santa and Mrs. Santa.

We are a bit low in volunteers at this point and as Tim says below, we can use your help.

Hello all my friends. For it is that time again where we are scrambling for volunteers for the Christmas Round Up. That’s right I said Christmas. We put this event on every year around this time. This year we are extremely short handed. Some of our regular helpers are not here this year and others are busy, so I am sending an all hands on deck bulletin begging for help. The date is December the 6th. I know it is short notice. I will need you from around 10am until whenever you have to leave or 4pm. We need help with everything from side walkers for the horse rides to craft helpers to group leaders to kid herders to just general helpers. If you or someone you know can help please have them call me at 360-907-9983 or email me at gustov@tds.net .

Thanks

Tim Kienitz
One of the BIG THREE organizers

Hero is coming home

2008-11-21T18:28:00.000-08:00

In case you haven’t heard of it before, let me introduce you to Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch.

My first introduction to them was through the book, Hope Rising, written my Kim Meeder. The book is the story of Kim and her husband taking barren, discarded ground and turning it into a lovely place of love, health and hope for discarded horses and children. I have had the privilege of meeting Kim Meeder at a retreat that she led and then visiting Crystal Peaks and having her take us on a tour. It is quite a place and when you visiting there, you see the mountains that gave the ranch its name.

A friend gave me the book with the warning that I would need a box of tissue by the second chapter. She was wrong. I needed the tissue on the second page. It is a wonderful book full of stories about injured horses and injured children, both physically and emotionally, being brought back to wholeness by their interaction with each other. Most of us know the power of the love of a horse. This book just puts that into words.

I received a newsletter from Kim this morning with a story about a hero that I want to share with you. It is a story of survival and horror with a happy ending. I want you to know that up front so you wouldn’t be afraid to read it like I was. I admit that I had to skip to the end before I finished. So much of the reality of keeping horses in this strained economy is shown in this story. We have courageous people like Pat Brown and Lori Harris who work really hard to give some of these cast-off horses a better life. It works for some. This is the story of a horse that shouldn’t have made it but did.

Our Hero is Coming Home
By Kim Meeder
After nearly 14 years of equine rescue, I thought that I had seen it all,
sadly . . . I WAS WRONG.

On October 18th, Troy and I were contacted by those in charge of recovering a small horse that was found by hunters wandering in the high wilderness of the Cascade Mountain range. Evident by his halter and dragging lead rope, the bay Arab gelding was clearly not wild. Instead, while he was being transported to Bend Equine Medical Center for emergency treatment, he was kind and gentle, quietly submitting to those who were trying to care for him. Based on what little information that could be gathered, it was estimated that he had been wandering for several weeks. Even for a small horse, he looked to be about 200 lbs. underweight and was INCREDIBLY dehydrated. Once at the hospital, it was confirmed . . . his wounds were severe.

Click here to read the rest of the story.

Information that may be interesting

2008-11-14T09:19:00.000-08:00

Dennis and I are down in Dallas, Plano actually, visiting our son and his family. Part of the purpose for the trip was for Dennis to attend a warehousing conference in Houston. I had already been at our son’s for a week so I went with Dennis to Houston and had a 3 day vacation.

--Nice --

One of the pieces of information from his conference that he shared with me on our 5 hour drive back up to Dallas was a bit of history on the width of railroad tracks. It was given as an example of people doing things a certain way because that’s the way it has always been done.

So now, do you know why railroad tracks are the width that they are? It is because of horses.

The Canada and US standard railroad gauge (distance between the rails) is 4 feet, 8.5 inches because that's the way they built them in England, and the US railroads were built by English expatriates and they are the same people who built the pre-railroad tramways, and that's the gauge they used.

The people who built the tramways used the same jigs and tools that they used for building wagons, which used that wheel spacing.

They used that wheel spacing because if they tried to use any other spacing, the wagon wheels would break on some of the old, long distance roads in England, because that's the spacing of the wheel ruts.

The first long distance roads in Europe (and England) were built by Imperial Rome for their legions. The roads have been used ever since. And the initial ruts, which everyone else had to match for fear of destroying their wagon wheels, were first formed by Roman war chariots.
Since the chariots were made for (or by) Imperial Rome, they were all alike in the matter of wheel spacing. The United States standard railroad gauge of 4 feet, 8.5 inches derives from the original specification for an Imperial Roman war chariot.

Specifications and bureaucracies live forever. So the next time you are handed a specification and wonder what horse's backside came up with it, you may be exactly right, because the Imperial Roman war chariots were made just wide enough to accommodate the back ends of two war horses. So now we have the answer to why tracks are 4 feet, 8.5 inches apart.

But it doesn’t end there -

When you see a Space Shuttle sitting on its launch pad, there are two big booster rockets attached to the sides of the main fuel tank. These are solid rocket boosters, or SRBs. The SRBs are made by Thiokol at their factory at Utah.

The engineers who designed the SRBs might have preferred to make them a bit fatter, but the SRBs had to be shipped by train from the factory to the launch site. The railroad line from the factory had to run through a tunnel in the mountains. The SRBs had to fit through that tunnel. The tunnel is slightly wider than the railroad track, and the railroad track is about as wide as two horses walking side by side.

So, the major design feature of what is arguably the world's most advanced transportation system was determined over two thousand years ago by the width of a horse’s butt

Public Imput Needed

2008-11-03T22:57:00.000-08:00

I received this from the "Small Acreage Outreach Program" today. This is one of those issues that is important for all of us to weigh in on if we want to keep our horses in this county.

Clark County is one of eight counties in Western Washington currently working to develop a farmland preservation program in cooperation with the Washington State Conservation Commission.

After meeting through the spring and summer, a local advisory committee has drafted 24 strategies intended to protect opportunities to pursue commercial and non-commercial agriculture. These strategies are now available for public review and comment through November 17.

The public is encouraged to fill out The Farmland Preservation survey online.

More information will be available at a series of open houses, all from 6 to 8 p.m., as follows:

Wednesday, November 5 - 6 to 8 p.m, Camas Public Library, 625 NE Fourth Ave., Camas

Monday, November 10 - - 6 to 8 p.m, C.A.S.E.E., 11104 NE 149th St., Brush Prairie

Wednesday, November 12 - 6 to 8 p.m, Clark County Public Safety Complex, 505 NW 179th St., Ridgefield.

The county web site also contains more information.

You can see the draft farm preservation strategies here.

The committee will consider public comments before finalizing recommendations to the Board of Clark County Commissioners later this year. The project is modeled after similar efforts in King County, to address economic, social and political pressures that discourage farming in areas where population has been increasing and lifestyles are becoming more urban.

Comments may be sent to Clark County Agricultural Preservation Advisory Committee, Attn: Patrick Lee, Room 185, Public Service Center, P.O. Box 5000, Vancouver 98666-5000 or by e-mail to Patrick.Lee@clark.wa.gov.

Notice of abandoned horse auction

2008-11-01T11:10:00.000-07:00

I just received this information from Pat Brown, our local Ripley’s Horse Rescue representative. It came by way of the Whispering Winds Equine Rescue in Roseburg, Oregon.

The email was a notice of a legitimate horse auction of abandoned purebred Arabians that was found on Craigslist. Click here to see the listing.

Some are nice looking horses, some really need a home & groceries. The ages run from 6 months to 24 years old.

Whispering Winds is looking into this issues but wanted people to be aware of the auction. There are 24 pictures of the horses being auction. Contact whisperingwindsequinerescue@msn.com to have the pictures sent to you.

Jody's Life

2008-10-29T14:13:00.000-07:00

I have been lax in getting information out to you all for a few weeks.

On Sept 30th my daughter-in-law in Texas was diagnosed with stage 2 adrenal carcinoma and it has thrown us all for a loop. I have been keeping a running prayer network for them of updates to all their friends and family. On the 31st I’m flying down to Dallas to stay with them and watch my grandchildren while we are all in Houston at the MD Anderson Cancer Center next week. I’m not sure how long I will be down there but it will be at least until the 18th.

I will have my laptop with me and will keep up with the happenings around the area as best I can.

I have been told by a bunch of people that they are enjoying our site. I’m so glad. That is what we wanted this to be, a place for the horse community in Clark County and beyond to gather and share information. Keep passing along things of interest. That’s what will make this site worthwhile.

Again, sorry for not staying up to speed but thank you for understanding.

Jody Benson

Possible Tax Issue

2008-10-26T16:25:00.000-07:00

I received this by way of the Back County Horseman of Washington and I thought that more people should have this information. It isn't exactly our issue yet but ........

Dear Horsey Friends,

Thank you for all of your support these last couple of months. As most of you know, King County has come down hard on all the farms in King County the last few months. After 30+ years, King County and the Washington State Department of Revenue changed their interpretation of the Open Space Taxation Act which is jeopardizing the existence of farms, especially horse farms, in King County (and all of Washington for that matter because it is the Washington State Department of Revenue that is requiring this different interpretation.) Therefore, I have to ask for another favor….please attend the public hearing on November 13th from 10-noon at: 1025 Union Avenue SE, Olympia, WA 98504, 4th Floor Executive Conference Room.

This is the meeting that really counts!!!!!

Please contact Marilou at the DOR to confirm your attendance. Her email is: MarilouR@DOR.WA.GOV. Please contact your horsey friends and especially other horse boarders and ask them to rsvp for this meeting. This is the meeting that will determine the viability of horse farms in King County and the State of Washington. This is the farm owner's and equestrian's opportunity to finally be heardJ

Also, if you are unable to attend this meeting, please email your written comments Marilou at MarilouR@DOR.WA.GOV.

Thank you,

Dana Kapela
dkapela@msn.com
206/930-2163

Please see letter below from the Department of Revenue…..:

STATE OF WASHINGTON
DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE
October 15, 2008
TO: Interested Parties
FROM: Brad Flaherty, Assistant Director
Property Tax Division
SUBJECT: STAKEHOLDER MEETING TO REVIEW OPEN SPACE TAXATION
ACT DEFINITION (WAC 458-30-200)
The Department of Revenue wants to acknowledge recent concerns and confusion about the
definition of "commercial agricultural purposes" as defined in WAC 458-30-200 and is
beginning a stakeholder process to consider changes to the rule.
Definition to be reviewed
The Legislature enacted chapter 84.34 RCW, the Open Space Taxation Act, in 1970, and the
Department adopted rules (chapter 458-30 WAC) to implement and administer this program in
1971. In 1988, the original rules were repealed and new rules adopted, including WAC 458-30-
200, which defines "commercial agricultural purposes," in pertinent part, as the:
(i) Raising, harvesting, and selling lawful crops;
(ii) Feeding, breeding, managing, and selling of livestock, poultry, fur-bearing
animals, or honey bees, or any products thereof;
(iii) Dairying or selling of dairy products;
(iv) Animal husbandry;
(v) Aquaculture;
(vi) Horticulture; or
(vii) Participating in a government-funded crop reduction or acreage set-aside
program.
Except for the inclusion of the cultivation of Christmas trees and certain short-rotation
hardwoods, the definition of "commercial agricultural purposes" has remained virtually
unchanged since at least 1988. It is time to give the definition a thorough review to make sure it
makes sense in light of current agricultural practices and other current use provisions.
Specific issues to be addressed
We are aware of two specific issues that need to be covered. Persons who purchase calves or
piglets in the Spring, raise them over the Summer, and sell them in the late Fall want this activity
to be included in the definition of "commercial agricultural purposes." The eligibility of horse
boarding also needs to be addressed. You may know of other issues we need to consider.
First stakeholder meeting scheduled
Our initial stakeholder meeting to consider possible rule changes will be held at 1025 Union
Avenue SE, Olympia, WA 98504, 4th Floor Executive Conference Room, on Thursday,
November 13, from 10:00 a.m. to noon. We invite you and others you may know who have an
All Interested Parties
October 15, 2008
Page 2
interest in clarifying this rule to join us in a discussion. Space is limited so please confirm your
attendance by responding to the e-mail address below. Based on the issues raised and interest
shown at this meeting, additional meetings may be planned, including meetings throughout the
state as appropriate.
Additional questions
If you have any additional questions or would like more information about the meeting, please
contact Marilou Rickert in the Department's Interpretations and Technical Advice Division at
(360) 570-6115 or by e-mail at MarilouR@DOR.WA.GOV.
BF:slc

Update on Pigeon Fever

2008-10-24T14:09:00.000-07:00

I talked with Dr. Meg a couple of days ago and she gave me this update on the PF outbreak in our area -

There are still new cases of PF. The past few have been in the Salmon Creek area. She has a lot of horses that she is suspicious of but they are not as sick. That’s good news.

For many cases that she has seen, the horses have not been off their property and there have not been any new horses on the property. This being said, she said go ahead and participate in activities. The incubation period is said to be as much as 55 days so even with our recent cold weather, it is possible to continue to see new cases for quite awhile yet. At one place with 5 horses, one horse came down with it and eventually all 5 were effected.

She feels that we will now have PF here to stay. This year may be worse because our population has been naive to this disease although she said one horse had it bad and she sent in a blood test and it didn’t showed that he had developed any anti-bodies against PF.

I asked her if there have been many studies done on PF and she said that UC Davis has done several. One of them was about flies carrying the bacteria. While it is active in the area, flies have it but when it simmers down, they don’t so they do move the bacteria around but they do not carry it like mosquitoes carry West Nile. The stuff is in the ground and certain conditions make it become active.

There is still strangles at Whipple Creek stables but the last cast was lanced on October 2nd so it seems to be under control. With strangles, 70% of the infected horses become immune for life.

Ridgefield Equine Clinic is going to put on a Winter Lecture Series. The first one, on November 15th, will be on infectious diseases. They will also cover "How to winterize your horse". The January 17th lecture will focus on artificial insemination and the February 21st lecture will be “Foaling 101”. (Of course!) All the lectures will be from 9AM to 11AM.

Weekend Call Schedule

2008-10-22T13:24:00.000-07:00

I just talked with Dr. Meg of Ridgefield Equine Clinic and she told me that 4 of the clinics in the area have worked up a weekend call schedule. It has been up and running for several months already.
Guess I’m glad I didn’t know about it cause that means I didn’t need it ....
It runs from Friday night to Monday morning and the records of any horses treated during that time will be passed on to the regular vet on Monday morning.

The clinics participating in this are:

Ridgefield Equine Clinic – Dr. Meg Brinton & Dr. Anne Marie Ray

Countryside Veterinary Service – Dr. Randy Lee

Equine Veterinary Service – Dr. Brian Johnson

Mt. View Veterinary Hospital – Dr. Tom Meyer

This is something that our area has needed for quite some time and I would like to thank these doctors for setting this up for us.

A great big thank you from all of us to all of you!!!!

Fun and Education at "The Buckle"

2008-10-08T16:13:00.000-07:00

What a combination. Having fun and learning at the same time. That’s what life always should be like. Oops, *as I climb off my soap box*

Silver Buckle is having a Fall Festival and Open House on Saturday, October 11th from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

If you haven’t been there before or if it has been awhile since you have been out there, come see ‘the ranch’. There will be tours of the ranch, free pumpkins for the kids, hay rides and pony rides, a petting zoo and hay scramble. They will be previewing their new trail course and doing demos on roping and cow play - ranch sorting, breakaway roping, steer dobbing, and basic gaming.

Saturday will be the introduction to their Horse U. As part of Horse U, Harris Statema, a rep. from LMF feed will be talking about what to look for when your buying hay, Renee Tucker, will be talking about equine Chiropractic and Acupuncture, Brent Skill, a local saddle maker, will be talking about what to look for when buying used western tack, Liz Barnard, a local trainer, will talk about readiness for horse ownership and Pat Brown of Ripley’s Horse Aide Foundation will be talking about horse owner responsibilities.

There will be things for kids and adults, horse people and people who think they might like to have a horse and just plain fun things to see and do.

If you don’t come out for any other reason, come out for your chance to enter in the free drawing for $100 gift card from Wilco.

Come on out and see what’s happening at ‘The Buckle’ and support a great local program. There will even be cocoa and treats.

Silver Buckle is located in Brush Prairie
11611 NE 152nd Ave.
360-260-8932

Pigeon Fever update and Strangles Report

2008-10-08T11:04:00.000-07:00

After reading the comments to my blog “Good News on Pigeon Fever” about new cases of PF and hearing some stuff about it in the last few days myself, I called and checked with some vets on Tuesday, Oct 7th for an update on PF in our area and on the Strangles cases that I have been hearing about.

I wanted to get some kind of handle on the actual number of cases. I know that I can talk to 12 different people and they can all say they know of a horse that has ‘whatever’ and it can sound like there are 12 horses with ‘whatever’. Or those 12 people can be hearing about the one horse that actually has ‘whatever’. Sort of like the old game telegraph but in a horsey form.

Apparently we had a lull in action regarding PF but no more.

I talked with Dr. Brinton of Ridgefield Equine Clinic and they have more new cases of Pigeon Fever. I had heard that there are 30 cases in the area and she confirmed that there are “at least” 30 cases in the county now.

Dr. Brinton said that not using our horses is not necessarily going to keep them healthy. It is carried by flies and they will be around until it gets cold. Good fly control is still the best defense. If you are going to haul them anywhere be sure to fly spray them real good, spray the trailer and your truck. Do everything you can to not move flies around the county. Also continue to check for swelling or edemas especially on the midline and the chest. That is were the lesions have been on all her cases. She also said that she had the first fatality on Friday night.

The doctor checked into a study down at UC Davis on this and they found that when there were active cases of PF in the area, the flies had the organism on them but once the cases had cleared up, the flies were clean. So it is carried by flies and then goes into the ground or something. Guess this will be something that we are going to have to be dealing with year after year until more research is done.

Amazia Veterinary Service reported 2 new cases of PF and another possible but no strangles.

Dr. Lee’s office said that they had done a survey two weeks ago of the cases in the county. There were 6 cases in the Camas/Washougal area, 2 in La Center, 2 in Hockinson, 2 in Ridgefield and 2 in Battle Ground. The current report is that they have no new cases.

Two different vets did confirmation that Whipple Creek Stables has at least one case of Strangles and has been put under quarantine.

Character Counts at Silver Buckle

2008-10-07T18:13:00.000-07:00

I have recently become active out at Silver Buckle "The Buckle" and it is such a fun and interesting place that I wanted you to know all about it. It is located in Brush Prairie on NE 152nd Ave. just south of 119th St. You can contact them at 360-260-8932 or online at http://www.silverbuckle.org/.

Silver Buckle is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit corporation, whose mission program is exciting but also challenging. Basically speaking, Silver Buckle uses horses to help in the growth and development of youth from both challenging living circumstances and not. By way of example, some youth come to Silver Buckle through social service agencies throughout SW Washington including foster children, youth referred by Juvenile Justice, socially and academically-challenged youth. Others seek out Silver Buckle to feed their passion for horses and be part of a working ranch. Although the paths to Silver Buckle are varied, all come to find a friend in a horse.

Horses, being the wonderful creatures that they are, do not judge kids, but help show them how to match their insides with their outsides. While horses are not the focus in the ARK (Acts of Random Kindness) program at Silver Buckle, character-building and self-awareness are. Overcoming challenges that all youth struggle with to various degrees such as fear, anger, self-esteem, confidence, understanding right from wrong, cause and effect, coping tools and control are all life skills that Silver Buckle horses help kids work though and develop. Through ARK and specific horse care assignments each week, kids begin to work on character building skills, respect, honesty, trustworthiness, caring and kindness, and of course responsibility and work ethic. Personal growth becomes evident after a very short time at Silver Buckle.

It is no secret that for kids, growing up on farms and ranches has its advantages. The ranch experience at Silver Buckle gives kids ages 4 to 18 the opportunity to work not just with horses, but with other livestock as well. Silver Buckle is dedicated to finding the interest in each youth. More often than not it is a horse or a pony, however sometimes, it might be a goat, a calf or a lamb. Whatever the passion, we work to design a program that addresses that student’s special needs. ARK students start with a 12-week introduction program that has specific tasks and mile-maker achievements. As the student achieves tasks and graduates from this program, they are invited back to continue a Tri-level program that runs year-round. Silver Buckle staff, volunteers and students all work closely together to manage the ranch and care for the animals. Staff instructs students, students instruct students and staff learns from students, growth and personal development never stops; it is something that goes on in a human forever.

As the ARK youth advance through the levels, they become part of the Silver Buckle team and their responsibilities and duties grow. ARK, as well as other enrolled youth, help run the ranch and assist in lessons and events. They help out with the day-to-day up-keep of the ranch and schooling of the horses. ARK kids become empowered and build vocational skills in the equine and cattle industries as well as in general ranch management.

Silver Buckle is a working ranch for the whole family, striving to become an equine educational resource for Clark County. Besides the core focus on youth, Silver Buckle offers a diverse menu of horse and cattle activities for older children and adults. From horse enthusiasts to current horse owners, Silver Buckle is working to provide activities and resourcefulness. For example, Silver Buckle does not stop at basic western and english riding lessons, but offers, weekly cow play events, such as break-away roping, steer dobbing and ranch sorting, arena rentals for horse clubs, cow clinics, new horse owner clinics, natural horsemanship and balanced seat. Horse “U” is offered each 2nd Saturday, where a variety of horse topics will be discussed, from horse care to training issues.

Silver Buckle has a talented string of 12 horses and 6 ponies available for weekly lessons and cow play events. If you don’t own a horse, Silver Buckle is the place to try out horse ownership with their “Horse Buddy Program” a horse “time-share” plan. Horse owners may haul horses in for lessons or cow play events or rent a Silver Buckle horse if you are unable to bring your own.

It is Silver Buckle’s goal to help and educate the horse owner, families considering horse ownership and to provide a safe, fun, character-building facility for young people to discover themselves and their community.

Good News on Pigeon Fever

2008-09-26T14:50:00.001-07:00

I am happy to report that I just heard from Dr. Meg of Ridgefield Equine Clinic.

She said that the cases that they have seen were in Washougal, La Center, and Brush Prairie. All are getting better and there are no new cases this week that they have treated.

H.R. 6598 - horse slaughter bill

2008-09-25T13:37:00.000-07:00

I saw this online today and wanted to send you all an update.

The U.S. House of Representatives Judiciary Committee has passed H.R. 6598, a measure known as the "Prevention of Equine Cruelty Act of 2008."
This bill prohibits transport, sale, delivery, or export of horses for slaughter for human consumption. It also criminalizes the purchase, sale, delivery, or export of horsemeat intended for human consumption. Supporters praise the bill for banning the export of horses to processing plants in Canada and Mexico.
"The bill passed by voice vote on Sept. 23," said Judiciary Committee Communications Director Jonathan Godfrey. "The next step is introduction on the House floor."

This is the AQHA action alert email on H.R. 6598

This appears to be just pure information on H.R. 6598 from Thomas - legislative information from the Library of Congress.

H.R.6598 Title: To amend title 18, United States Code, to prohibit certain conduct relating to the use of horses for human consumption.
Sponsor: Rep Conyers, John, Jr. [MI-14] (introduced 7/24/2008) Cosponsors (105)
Latest Major Action: 9/23/2008 House committee/subcommittee actions.
Status: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.
SUMMARY AS OF: 7/24/2008--Introduced.
Prevention of Equine Cruelty Act of 2008 - Amends the federal criminal code to impose a fine and/or prison term of up to three years for possessing, shipping, transporting, purchasing, selling, delivering, or receiving any horse, horse flesh, or carcass with the intent that it be used for human consumption. Reduces the prison term to one year if the offense involves less than five horses or less than 2,000 pounds of horse flesh or carcass and the offender has no prior conviction for this offense.

Closing to Haul-ins - Pigeon Fever

2008-09-17T19:50:00.000-07:00

Ok, so that wasn’t the last word. UGH! I have been enjoying this nice sunny weather but this Pigeon Fever stuff is making me look forward to our rain so the flies will leave and we can get thru the incubation period and not have to worry about it again. At least for this year.

Heidi Olson of Remuda Ranch is closing her facility to haul-ins until this stuff passes. There is word that a barrel horse has tested positive for PF and it seems to have contracted it from Rock Creek. The horse has since been to the Saddle Club and to the Fair Grounds. Heidi talked with Dr. Meg today to check for updates. Again prevention is the best action and it is fly control. Also check your horses daily for lumps on the chest area, belly (were the flies like to gather) and also on the legs. A fever would come first and then open lesions. If you do take your horse out to an event or camping, take along a 10-15% bleach/water mixture in a back-pack sprayer and douse all the area that your horse will have contact.

There are a few pictures getting passed around of a poor horse up in La Center with PF and it looks nasty. Nothing to mess with.

I have heard of another barn that is closing to haul-ins. When I find out more, I’ll pass it along. In the mean time, it might be wise to call before you head out someplace to check that arena or barn’s current plan.