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| A NEW BEGINNING Work in Progress |
URGENT NEWS YOUR INTERESTS ARE A STAKE
BE HEARD BE INVOLVED BE CONNECTED
MEMORANDUM
Following this message is
a press release for Rutgers University's semester-long horse management
course. It is offered to continuing education students, and designed for new
or potential horse owners and enthusiasts. The course instructor is Dr.
Sarah Ralston. This year, the class will also be offered online, providing a
unique learning opportunity for long-distance students.
A copy of the press release in Microsoft Word is also attached for your
convenience. We very much appreciate your support of the Equine Science
Center, and we would be grateful if you could help us draw attention to this
unique educational opportunity.
Contact: Diana M. Orban Brown
Director of Marketing and Communications Rutgers Equine Science Center
732-932-9419
orban@aesop.rutgers.edu
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COOK COLLEGE'S HORSE MANAGEMENT COURSE OFFERED IN THE CLASSROOM AND ONLINE |
NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ (June
30, 2005) -- Cook College at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey,
will offer a semester-long horse management course for continuing education
students in the Fall 2005 semester. The instructor will be Dr. Sarah
Ralston, Associate Professor in the Department of Animal Sciences.
This course is designed for new or potential horse owners and horse
enthusiasts, and is offered in two modes: classroom and online. The
classroom course will be held Tuesday and Thursday evenings from September 1
to December 13, 2005 in Bartlett Hall, 84 Lipman Drive, on the Cook College
campus in New Brunswick. Access to the Internet is required for the online
version and recommended for the "traditional" course, since class notes will
be available online.
The 14-week class provides an introduction to the anatomy, physiology,
nutrition and behavior of a horse. Management techniques and the practical
aspects of horse care including stabling, shoeing/hoof care, common diseases
and emergency care will be discussed in classroom lectures. Students will
further benefit from live demonstrations and hands-on training. In addition
to the classroom lectures and demonstrations, optional field trips may be
offered throughout the program schedule.
For both versions of the class, registrants must have a high school diploma
in order to enroll. Admission is limited for both classes, so early
application is encouraged. Cost is $475 for single registration or $455 for
multi-person registration if paid prior to August 18, 2005. After August 18,
the fee is $515. For more information, or to register, call 732-932-9271 or
visit www.esc.rutgers.edu and click on the "Horse Management Course"
headline.
Anastasia Miklojcik * miklojcik@aesop.rutgers.edu Rutgers
Equine Science Center Cook College/New Jersey Agricultural Experiment
Station
103 College Farm Road, Cook College Campus Mailing Address:84 Lipman Drive *
New Brunswick, NJ 08901 732-932-9419; fax: 732-932-2658 * http://esc.rutgers.edu/
From: dirobdennis@juno.com [mailto:dirobdennis@juno.com]
Sent: Wednesday, June 29, 2005 9:57 AM
Subject:
101 Ejercicios de salto (101 Jumping Exercises for Horse &
Rider)
101 Ejercicios de salto para caballo y el jinete
Linda L. Allen
y Dianna R. Dennis
YAY!!!! We are out in a SPANISH EDITION!!! Printed in Spain by Tutor
Publications.
(They did
the translation, though I am sure Linda double
checked it! I got to work with the GERMAN translator for - that
edition came out last year!)
Very exciting!!!! Imagine, in THREE languages! All we need now is FRENCH and
ITALIAN!
(That's 101 Jumping Exercises for Horse & Rider published by Storey Press -
available from Amazon.com for those of you who ride! ;) )
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.. ABOUT US
 YOUNG JUMPER CHAMPIONSHIPS
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To: AHC Member Organizations From: American Horse Council
Re: H-2A Immigration Legislation Re-introduced
Date: March 2, 2005
Comprehensive agricultural immigration reform legislation has been re-introduced by Senator Larry Craig (R-ID) in the Senate (S. 1288) and Congressmen Chris Cannon (R-UT) and Howard Berman (D-CA) in the House of Representatives (H.R. 884). The Agricultural Job Opportunity, Benefits, and Security Act of 2005, known as the AgJobs bill, is basically the same bill that was introduced in the last Congress by them. This legislation is supported by a broad coalition of agricultural industries, worker advocates, religious, public interest and taxpayer groups.
Background
The horse industry relies on alien workers for entry-level positions at breeding farms and ranches, using the “H-2A Agricultural Worker” program to bring aliens into the country as temporary, non-immigrant workers. This program allows agricultural workers to enter the United States to do seasonal labor, including work at horse farms and ranches.
There are drawbacks to the current system for the industry. The admission process is long and cumbersome. A streamlined process would be beneficial and less costly.
Another concern is the wage rate required to be paid and how it is determined. Only the H-2A agriculture worker program sets the required wage based on the “Adverse Effect Wage Rate” (AEWR). This is a flat rate that is paid across the country and is an average of all workers in a specific industry. All other temporary worker programs use the Prevailing Wage Rate, which is determined state-by-state and region-by-region. The Prevailing Wage Rate is also based on each individual industry and specific occupation.
In addition, many are concerned that they would lose some alien workers during any transition period if some existing workers prove to have documentation that is insufficient.
Finally, the H2-A program permits a worker to stay in the United States temporarily, which is defined in the law as up to ten months. Some in the horse industry would like to have alien workers for a longer period.
Since the industry can expect the shortage of entry-level agricultural workers to continue, if not worsen, resolution of the immigration problems surrounding the H-2A worker program is an important issue for the horse industry.
Craig-Cannon AgJobs Bill
The AgJobs bill would satisfy most of the concerns of the horse industry regarding the H-2A program. It would:
This bill satisfies most of the concerns of the horse industry, particularly with respect to the AEWR paid, the application process and the “regularization” of current workers, who may not have work authorization. This latter earned status adjustment program provides a transition solution to allow any undocumented workers to earn the right to legal status and avoid the need for a large importation of guest workers and a disruption in industry practices.
Conclusion
Immigration reform legislation has been debated through the last several Congresses. It is complicated legislation that generates a great deal of emotion. Whether a final bill can be passed remains to be seen, but at this point, the AgJobs bill seems to have the broadest and most bi-partisan support.
But the debate has not yet begun in earnest.
Please contact us with any comments or questions.
Email Update
March 3, 2005
AWC MEETING INFORMATION
Animal Welfare Council Annual Meeting and Board Meeting
Monday, April 18, 2005 at 9:00 a.m.
Hyatt Regency on Capitol Hill
In conjunction with the American Horse Council Convention
You can get hotel info and a link to the online hotel reservations by going to the American Horse Council:
Room rates are: $215 single, $240 double – ask for American Horse Council room block
800-233-1234 – Reservations must be made by March 15, 2005 to get rate
Please email me any agenda items; I will be getting out an agenda before the meeting.
New Contact information for Cindy:
Beginning March 3rd I will be working out of my home office as Executive Director of the American Youth Horse Council. I will continue as usual with the Animal Welfare Council duties until the meeting in April where the situation can be addressed, I will pledge to continue the weekly updates.
My contact information after March 3 will be:
Cindy Schonholtz
6015 Colony Circle
Colorado Springs, CO 80919
719-594-9778
cell: 719-440-7255 – correct, this was wrong on last week’s update
ANIMAL RIGHTS/ENVIRONMENTALISM ISSUES
Animal rights activists doggedly oppose hunting as cruel (CA)
http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/breaking_news/11001458.htm
HORSE WELFARE
American Horse Defense Fund press release about lobbying day
http://releases.usnewswire.com/GetRelease.asp?id=43741
BLM sells 200
horses under new law (NV)
http://www.elkodaily.com/articles/2005/03/02/news/local/news5.txt
Reward offered in Monterey County abuse case (CA)
http://www.theksbwchannel.com/news/4234573/detail.html
Horse neglect
brings probation (MA)
http://www.lowellsun.com/front/ci_2590453
Tornillo man
arrested and charged with animal abuse (TX)
http://www.kvia.com/Global/story.asp?S=3022079&nav=AbBzX1I6
ANIMAL WELFARE & ID
AZ state AG department plans animal ID system
http://phoenix.bizjournals.com/phoenix/stories/2005/02/28/daily37.html
LEGISLATIVE NEWS
FEDERAL LEGISLATION
IMPORTANT, NEW BILL TO BAN THE SLAUGHTER OF HORSES INTRODUCED:
H.R.503
Title: To amend the Horse Protection
Act to prohibit the shipping, transporting, moving, delivering, receiving,
possessing, purchasing, selling, or donation of horses and other equines to
be slaughtered for human consumption, and for other purposes.
Sponsor:
Rep Sweeney, John E. [NY-20]
(introduced 2/1/2005)
Cosponsors
(15)
Latest Major Action: 2/1/2005
Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on
Energy and Commerce.
Full bill text attached to this email. Click here
ACTION NEEDED IMMEDIATELY:
AWC members should contact their Reps immediately with information regarding their position on this bill. Additionally, please look at the list of members of the Energy and Commerce Committee and contact them if they are from your area:
Link to committee members:
http://energycommerce.house.gov/108/members/members.htm
Here are the current cosponsors of the bill:
Rep Bilirakis, Michael [FL-9] - 2/9/2005
Rep Bono, Mary [CA-45] - 2/1/2005
Rep Brown, Sherrod [OH-13] - 2/1/2005
Rep Capps, Lois [CA-23] - 2/1/2005
Rep Cox, Christopher [CA-48] - 2/1/2005
Rep Crenshaw, Ander [FL-4] - 2/17/2005
Rep Dicks, Norman D. [WA-6] - 2/17/2005
Rep Doyle, Michael F. [PA-14] - 2/17/2005
Rep Engel, Eliot L. [NY-17] - 2/1/2005
Rep Eshoo, Anna G. [CA-14] - 2/1/2005
Rep Farr, Sam [CA-17] - 2/17/2005
Rep Ferguson, Mike [NJ-7] - 2/1/2005
Rep Gallegly, Elton [CA-24] - 2/1/2005
Rep Gonzalez, Charles A. [TX-20] - 2/9/2005
Rep Green, Gene [TX-29] - 2/1/2005
Rep Hastings, Alcee L. [FL-23] - 2/17/2005
Rep Hinchey, Maurice D. [NY-22] - 2/17/2005
Rep Jones, Walter B., Jr. [NC-3] - 2/17/2005
Rep Kildee, Dale E. [MI-5] - 2/17/2005
Rep King, Peter T. [NY-3] - 2/17/2005
Rep LaTourette, Steve C. [OH-14] - 2/9/2005
Rep Levin, Sander M. [MI-12] - 2/17/2005
Rep Lewis, Jerry [CA-41] - 2/17/2005
Rep Maloney, Carolyn B. [NY-14] - 2/17/2005
Rep McNulty, Michael R. [NY-21] - 2/17/2005
Rep Miller, George [CA-7] - 2/17/2005
Rep Moran, James P. [VA-8] - 2/1/2005
Rep Pallone, Frank, Jr. [NJ-6] - 2/1/2005
Rep Pitts, Joseph R. [PA-16] - 2/9/2005
Rep Rahall, Nick J., II [WV-3] - 2/9/2005
Rep Schakowsky, Janice D. [IL-9] - 2/17/2005
Rep Shays, Christopher [CT-4] - 2/1/2005
Rep Sherman, Brad [CA-27] - 2/17/2005
Rep Spratt, John M., Jr. [SC-5] - 2/1/2005
Rep Stark, Fortney Pete [CA-13] - 2/17/2005
Rep Strickland, Ted [OH-6] - 2/17/2005
Rep Towns, Edolphus [NY-10] - 2/1/2005
Rep Van Hollen, Chris [MD-8] - 2/17/2005
Rep Waxman, Henry A. [CA-30] - 2/9/2005
Rep Whitfield, Ed [KY-1] - 2/1/2005
Rep Woolsey, Lynn C. [CA-6] - 2/17/2005
Track Federal bills:
As many of you are probably aware, in the appropriations bill that was signed by President Bush recently, a provision was included that would allow for the open auction of wild horses older than 10 years or who have been unsuccessfully adopted out three times. The Horse Welfare Coalition does not have a position on this but thought you would all like some information on the subject.
In 1971, the U.S Congress passed the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act. This Act provides for the protection, management and control of the wild horses and burros on public ranges and is administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Regulations related to the Act have guidelines for the adoption of wild horses and burros requiring certain fencing and facilities and limiting the number of wild horses and burrows a person can adopt.
The population of wild horses exceeds the capacity of the habitat available. The Bureau of Land Management’s adoption program been unable to find homes for excess horses after they are rounded up and offered for adoption. Some reports state that the health of the horses still in the wild is deteriorating and more need to be removed and adopted out to maintain the welfare of the herd. Approximately 36,000 horses currently occupy federal lands that should accommodate 26,000. Additionally, 16,000 captive wild horses are being held by the bureau in feedlot type situations of which the government spends $465 per horse annually to provide care mounting to a cost annually of $7.4 million per year. Many of these horses are older and unadoptable. The current regulations regarding adoption of wild horses will not allow an individual to adopt more than four wild horses and require certain facilities for the horses adopted.
In 2005 Appropriations Bill:
The Bureau of Land Management has stated that there are 8300 horses in the program that would currently be available for sale at open auction under this new provision of the law.
STATUS: This provision was included in the 2005 appropriations bill that passed and was signed by President Bush.
Introduced by Rep. Rahall of WV and Rep. Whitfield of KY, it would restore the original provisions that were changed in the above legislation.
STATUS: Introduced
Articles:
Revised Wild Horse Law Challenged
http://www.pahrumpvalleytimes.com/2005/01/28/news/horselaw.html
Horses fate still uncertain (NV)
STATE LEGISLATION
Connecticut HB 6413/SB 685
To prohibit the use of elephants for the purpose of entertainment by traveling shows, theatrical exhibitions and circuses.
Links for more information: http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=6413&which_year=2005
Connecticut HB 6395
A bill to ban the slaughtering of horse for export.
Link for more info:
A bill to increase penalty for animal cruelty and ban the Mexican Rodeo Event of bull tailing.
Relates to cruelty to
animals; increases certain minimum mandatory fines and periods of
incarceration for certain acts of cruelty to animals; provides that it is
first-degree misdemeanor for person to intentionally drag or fell by tail
bovine animal in organized sports exhibition; reenacts provision regarding
fighting or baiting animals, to incorporate amendment to specified provision
in reference thereto.
Link for more information:
Florida SJR
6.
A bill to change the ballot initiative process.
A constitutional amendment
to require that proposed said amendment or revision be approved by at least
three-fifths of electors of state voting on measure rather than by simple
majority.
Link for more information:
Killing domestic animals.
Makes murdering a domestic animal a nonsuspendible Class D felony unless the
killing was necessary to prevent injury to a person, protect property, or
prevent a seriously injured domestic animal from prolonged suffering.
As used in this section, "domestic animal" means a member of the:
(1) bovine;
(2) equine;
(3) ovine;
(4) caprine;
(5) porcine;
(6) canine; or
(7) feline;
species that is not wild.
Link for more info:
Hawaii HB 202
Establishing initiative, referendum & recall in HI.
Link for more info:
Oklahoma H.J.R. 1012 & S.J.R. 13 – Also Nebraska LR 8 – Mississippi HCR 8
Arkansas SJR 1, Indiana HJR 4, Ohio HJR 18.
Proposed amendment to the Oklahoma constitution recognizing the right to hunt.
New Mexico Senate Memorial
1
Supports practices, programs, and research related to animal welfare;
opposes the expenditure of public funds to promote animal rights, the use of
materials that discourage the use and enjoyment of
animal products and legal prohibitions or undue restrictions of us of
animals.
Link for more information:
http://legis.state.nm.us/lcs/_session.asp?chamber=S&type=M&number=1&year=05
New Mexico SB 67
Prohibits the slaughter of horses in New Mexico and the possession or importation of horse meat for human consumption.
Link for more information:
http://legis.state.nm.us:8080/lcsbillsearch/session.jsp?year=2005R&type=B&chamber=S&number=67
New York A 47.
Reporting and husbandry guidelines for elephants exhibiting in NY state.
Traveling exhibitions with elephants must file an itinerary detailing the elephant's stay with the Department of Agriculture and Markets at least 30 days before the elephant's arrival. Each failure to file an itinerary will result in a $1,000 fine. Agents of the Department of Agriculture and Markets are authorized to inspect the elephant's living conditions. This bill establishes temperature and ventilation requirements for the transportation of elephants and requires that elephants be untethered at least one hour a day. The bill prohibits use of certain equipment upon elephants, such as hooks and shocking devices, and prohibits elephant rides. Violations of these provisions will constitute either a Class D or E felony.
Link to more information:
http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A00049
Rhode Island SB 124
Establishing the ballot initiative process.
Link for more information:
http://dirac.rilin.state.ri.us/BillStatus/WebClass1.ASP?WCI=BillStatus&WCE=ifrmBillStatus&WCU
Rhode Island HB 5356
It shall be unlawful for any person to operate, conduct or maintain any animal circus, display or exhibition in this state.
For more information:
http://dirac.rilin.state.ri.us/BillStatus/WebClass1.ASP?WCI=BillStatus&WCE=ifrmBillStatus&WCU
Virginia SB 592
Requires instruction relating to humane treatment of animals, including responsible pet ownership and care, to be taught in the character education program in public schools.
Link for more information:
http://leg1.state.va.us/cgi-bin/legp504.exe?ses=051&typ=bil&val=sb952
Washington
HB 1151/SB
5377
Regulates the keeping of dangerous wild
animals.
Link for more information:
http://www.leg.wa.gov/wsladm/billinfo1/dspBillSummary.cfm?billnumber=1151
http://www.leg.wa.gov/wsladm/billinfo1/dspBillSummary.cfm?billnumber=5377
CONGRESSIONAL HORSE CAUCUS
Introduction On June 21, 2001, Representatives Ernie Fletcher (R-KY) and Karen Thurman (D-FL) convened the first meeting of the Congressional Horse Caucus. The gavel has been passed for the 108th Congress to Representatives John E. Sweeney (R-NY) and Ken Lucas (D-KY), who are now chairing the Caucus.
Background The Congressional Horse Caucus is a bipartisan group formed to educate Members of Congress and their staffs about the importance of the horse industry in the economic, agricultural, sporting, gaming and recreational life of the nation.
This group of Representatives has an interest in the industry and wants to support the issues important to it.
In the last Congress there were over thirty members of the Horse Caucus. Representatives Sweeney and Lucas have sent out a "Dear Colleague" letter inviting members of the House of Representatives to become a part of the Caucus.
The Caucus currently has 59 members.
AHC Position The AHC encourages all of its members to contact their Representatives and encourage them to join the Horse Caucus.
A Representative can contact the office of Representative Sweeney or Representative Lucas to join the Horse Caucus.
Current Members of Caucus
Mike Bilirakis (R-FL)
Marsha Blackburn (R-TN)
Rick Boucher (D-VA)
Shelly Moore Capito (R-WV)
Dennis Cardoza (D-CA)
Brad Carson (D-OK)
John Carter (R-TX)
Jerry Costello (D-IL)
Joseph Crowley (D-NY)
Jo Ann Davis (R-VA)
Lincoln Davis (D-TN)
John Duncan (R-TN)
Tom Feeney (R-FL)
Ernie Fletcher (R-KY)
Paul Gillmor (R-OH)
Bart Gordon (D-TN)
Joel Hefley (R-CO)
Wally Herger (R-CA)
Baron Hill (D-IN)
Darrell Issa (R-CA)
Chris John (D-LA)
Walter Jones (R-NC)
Ric Keller (R-FL)
Mark Kirk (R-IL)
John Kline (R-MN)
Ray LaHood (R-IL)
Ron Lewis (R-KY)
William Lipinski (D-IL)
Ken Lucas (D-KY)
Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY)
Thaddeus McCotter (R-MI)
Jim McCrery (R-LA)
Buck McKeon (R-CA)
Kendrick Meek (D-FL)
Juanita Millender-McDonald (D-CA)
Alan Mollohan (D-WV)
Anne Northrup (R-KY)
Tom Osborne (R-NE)
Frank Pallone (D-NJ)
Bill Pascrell (D-NJ)
Donald Payne (D-NJ)
Collin Peterson (D-MN)
Adam Putnam (R-FL)
George Radanovich (R-CA)
Nick Rahall (D-WV)
Hal Rogers (R-KY)
Ileana Ros-Lehithen (R-FL)
Mike Ross (D-AR)
Don Sherwood (R-PA)
Adam Smith (D-WA)
Cliff Stearns (R-FL)
John Sweeney (R-NY)
Billy Tauzin (R-LA)
Mac Thornberry (R-TX)
Pat Tiberi (R-OH)
Zach Wamp (R-TN)
Jerry Weller (R-IL)
Ed Whitfield (R-KY)
Joe Wilson (R-SC)
Show Management is expected to contract for a License for which there is no fee
listed and where the unknown
amount may be modified during the
term of the License. While we will be grandfathered for 3 years we have no
idea what the costs are or will be. The previous fees will have been deleted
and not replaced in any format.
Further
while we have a license for 3 years it was be declared to have another
expiration date if they feel it is in
"the best interests of the sport" which is not defined or even described.
I therefore ask for your help with letters to seek that the Board postpone any
decisions until we know what the
standards
may be and so we can comply. Otherwise it would be wiser to cancel all mileage
since I think this is
not definable or enforceable.
It seems the only place where the mileage stays in tact is for the A Rated
Shows
which we should all then
be permitted to offer without mileage restrictions.
Attached are the proposed Rule Changes with my personal opinions and comments included.
Competition Date Approval Task ForceFrom: usef@usef.org [mailto:usef@usef.org]
To USEF Competition Contacts, Managers, Members of Competition Management: The Competition Date Approval Task Force (often called the Mileage Task Force), submitted a report to the USEF mid-year meeting in July. The report concluded that simply addressing mileage would not deal with all of the issues requiring consideration. The Task Force recommended that a comprehensive review of Competition issues be undertaken. The July USEF Board of Directors approved moving forward with the Recommendation for comprehensive competition review process and directed that the Task Force report to the January 2005 USEF annual meeting. The Task Force recognizes that this undertaking requires both competition management input and Breed/Discipline specific input to be successful. Accordingly, we would like to invite you to attend upcoming meetings as follows: · High Prairie Farm Fall Preview, Parker, CO on Saturday, September 11th at 10:00AM· Colorado Fall Charity Horse Show, Denver, CO on Saturday, September 11th at 4:30PM· USEF Office, Gladstone, NJ on September 23rd at 5:00PM· Manchester, New Hampshire on September 25th at 11:30AM (This is tentative depending on the number of RSVPS)· Los Angeles International Jumping Festival, Los Angeles, CA on Sunday, September 26th at 10:00AM· King Shavings/USGPL Finals, Culpeper, VA on Saturday, October 2nd at 6:30PM· North Carolina State Fair Hunter-Jumper, Raleigh, NC on October 9th at 4:00PM· Pennsylvania National, Harrisburg, PA on October 21st at 2:00PM· Sacramento, CA on October 27th at 2:00 PMIn order to better prepare for these meetings please notify Katriona Adams of your plans to attend. She can be contacted directly at (859) 225-6959 or by email at kadams@usef.org. She will also be able to provide you with details of the exact locations. Please feel free to pass this invitation along to any facility owners/managers where USEF competitions are held. Competition Issues for Discussion: 1. Establishment of definable and measurable Competition Standards for each Level of Competition including consideration of items such as Footing, Stalls, Exhibitor support facilities, Safety, etc. 2. Development of a Breed/Discipline specific mileage matrix that can be applied individually by State and Competition calendar quarters. Review of the Waiver system currently in existence and recommendations relating to changes to/or elimination of Waivers. 3. Creation of a Premium Level of Competitions to include among other things: o showcasing the Sport of Equestrian and capitalizing on promotional opportunitieso reducing the total financial dependence on the Exhibitors/Members, Ando generating funding for grass root development of our sport3. Replacement of the current "Recognized" competition procedures with a "Licensed competition procedure including provisions for: o License duration with consideration of performance and capital investment required,o Specific minimum uniform Licensed "Competition Standards" applied to different levels of competitiono Renewal and non renewal process with consideration of both performance in connection with License standards and "best for the sport" promotion and development4. Development of Software, customized as required for Breed/Discipline. The software would be utilized in reporting entry and result information to USEF. The software will provide for a standardized electronic format specific as required for each Breed/Discipline with provision of universal point achievement recognition system 5. Creation of a USEF Competition Achievement Recognition program specific to each Level of competition and utilizing the electronically reported data for manipulation as specified for each Breed and Discipline to provide for appropriate recognition. Also, to re-name the Competition Levels (currently AA, A, B, &C) to a new, more appealing set of titles in connection with Achievement Recognition. Task Force Members: John Long, Robert Higgins, Bill Moroney, Robert Ridland and Howard Pike Best regards, John Long Questions that should be answered before Rule Changes are Considered From: usef@usef.org [mailto:usef@usef.org]
To USEF Competition Contacts, Managers, Members of Competition Management: The Competition Date Approval Task Force (often called the Mileage Task Force), submitted a report to the USEF mid-year meeting in July. The report concluded that simply addressing mileage would not deal with all of the issues requiring consideration. The Task Force recommended that a comprehensive review of Competition issues be undertaken. The July USEF Board of Directors approved moving forward with the Recommendation for comprehensive competition review process and directed that the Task Force report to the January 2005 USEF annual meeting. The Task Force recognizes that this undertaking requires both competition management input and Breed/Discipline specific input to be successful. Accordingly, we would like to invite you to attend upcoming meetings as follows: · High Prairie Farm Fall Preview, Parker, CO on Saturday, September 11th at 10:00AM· Colorado Fall Charity Horse Show, Denver, CO on Saturday, September 11th at 4:30PM· USEF Office, Gladstone, NJ on September 23rd at 5:00PM· Manchester, New Hampshire on September 25th at 11:30AM (This is tentative depending on the number of RSVPS)· Los Angeles International Jumping Festival, Los Angeles, CA on Sunday, September 26th at 10:00AM· King Shavings/USGPL Finals, Culpeper, VA on Saturday, October 2nd at 6:30PM· North Carolina State Fair Hunter-Jumper, Raleigh, NC on October 9th at 4:00PM· Pennsylvania National, Harrisburg, PA on October 21st at 2:00PM· Sacramento, CA on October 27th at 2:00 PMIn order to better prepare for these meetings please notify Katriona Adams of your plans to attend. She can be contacted directly at (859) 225-6959 or by email at kadams@usef.org. She will also be able to provide you with details of the exact locations. Please feel free to pass this invitation along to any facility owners/managers where USEF competitions are held. Competition Issues for Discussion: 1. Establishment of definable and measurable Competition Standards for each Level of Competition including consideration of items such as Footing, Stalls, Exhibitor support facilities, Safety, etc. At this point they have held all but four more meetings. I would like to know What Mr. Long thinks is a priority and definition or method from his survey so far.
Comments highlighted yellow Sounds good, lovely rhetoric except there is a major conflict two things are opposite to each other and unsolvable. definable and measurableThat is a tangible factual provable and consistent standard that always reacts the same way. >Footing, Stalls, Exhibitor support facilities, Safety, etc. Exactly how will we quantify what is a "GOOD" footing when the word good itself is an abstract concept. We have just witnesseth that the FEI and the IOC could not define or establish what was a "good" footing for the Olympics, yet the USEF thinks it has experts who can do that and deny a license to do business using that criteria.What about the Stalls? Will it be size? will it be construction? Will they have to be permanent? Will they have to have rubber stall mats? How thick will the mats have to be? A covered and protected electric box with at least 4 plugs per stall? How much light is required for the braiders who work all night? Perhaps shades so that the horse in the next stall is not kept up all night. Automatic shut offs on the water so no one can forget to turn the water off when they are done and flood the place? The exhibitors will have to pay the extra costs for these criteria because management will include the electric bill in the stall fee. The very elite can afford those charges can you? Exhibitor support facilities What exactly does this include? Now that is wide open, from who caters the food to flushing toilets and showers. Will there be a mandatory menu? Which Committee will need to approve your food vendor and his menu so that the next year your license will be renewed? Paved Parking area ? How much space for how many competitors for parking? Large Vans, two horse trailers will need to have space for how many?Will flushing toilets be required for all A-B-C Shows? How many for how many horses?How large a shaded area will be required for how many horses? If the show is larger than expected and the capacity is exceeded will we have to turn away competitors or put them on stand by list in case of scratches?Will they appoint the Stewards? If the Steward available is from Oklahoma who will pay the travel expenses? Remember show managers anyone who doesn't approve your exhibitor amenities could be very important and you won't have your license renewed or you will lose your rating. These will have to be detailed nit picking accurate
statistics if they are going to be definable and measurable. Safety, etc. Etc. That's a really good catch all just in case they can't find any other reason to turn down your application for a license. Now Safety is an important issue, let me tell you how the new rule change came up that required the NEW Safety preparedness paperwork which must be given to the Steward before the show r a $750.00 fine. There was ONE SHOW that happens to have two ways to get in, one gate was chained shut so the competitors would all use the other gate. For whatever reason the ambulance came to the chained gate and no one was at that gate. So to solve this problem we have yet another layer of paper which requires more filing space and extra personel and I would suppose gives the USEF a reason to blame another incompetent Steward. Remember there's no Membership vote and no discussion five men will make these decisions. John Long, Robert Ridland, Robert Higgins, Howard Pike and yep! there's Bill Moroney again At the Presentation these topics will be brought up and you will have a chance to express your opinion. Whoever is the Presenter is usually very polite and an excellent listener and after we have all vented our feeling he will say "Thank you for you suggestions I will bring your suggestions back to the Task Force we will discuss them all before we make our decision". Democracy in action? We need to know what they are thinking
now and what their rules might be so we can prepare.
2. Development of a Breed/Discipline specific mileage matrix that can be applied individually by State and Competition calendar quarters. Review of the Waiver system currently in existence and recommendations relating to changes to/or elimination of Waivers.
How will this statistics be validated and certified? And by whom? This means they will count the entries to qualify other new
shows. Now they have not considered that in south New Jersey
Members frequently go to Pennsylvania which is closer for them
than north New Jersey. If there are 400 horses in New Jersey
that compete and they all go to shows 5 days a week they will be
counted as 2000 horses for purposes of the opening the calendar.
If they do it by state they may be 1000 horses in Pennsylvania
and 1000 horses in New Jersey. By Waiver what they mean is when we choose to give permission to another show which may conflict with our mileage because we have compromised a time schedule to accommodate. Their concern is that one show may pay the other show to cover potential losses.
3. Creation of a Premium Level of Competitions to include among other things: o showcasing the Sport of Equestrian and capitalizing on promotional opportunitiesWould that mean shows that would interest the National Corporate Sponsors? How would these be selected and how would they be Licensed and who would make that decision? o reducing the total financial dependence on the Exhibitors/Members, AndHow would that benefit other shows than those considered show case shows which would Corporate Sponsors to defray their expenses? How would this funding benefit the A/B/C shows? o generating funding for grass root development of our sportWhat is the grass roots? Is it the C/B Rated Shows or is it the unrecognized shows where they are not members of USEF and do not have any rule book? In what ways would the "grassroots benefit from this program?3. Replacement of the current "Recognized" competition procedures with a "Licensed competition procedure including provisions for: o License duration with consideration of performance and capital investment required,WHAT IS THE LEGAL definition of difference between the two forms?What kind of performances is required to maintain your license?What will the License cost? What kind of criteria would keep you from having your License renewed?How much capital investment will be the criteria as a basis for length of time for a License? Who will appraise the value of the investment? For example a show that only offers three rings would have a smaller investment than a show that offers 10/12 rings; will that be judged per ring?o Specific minimum uniform Licensed "Competition Standards" applied to different levels of competitionWhat is the definition of a "minimum uniform" competition standard? Are they criteria that are specific and definable and measurable or subjective as defined above. Are levels of competition by level of difficulty or by Money Offered? If a show is a multi breed or discipline show are there different qualifications? If competitors do not enter rated hunter classes or jumper classes are they required to be a member of USHJA? Is management and are the Officials and staff who are not competing required to be members of USHJA? What is the USHJA Non-Member fee?
If it is a Hunter and Jumper Show will these qualifications be in the hands of the USHJA or the USEF? o Renewal and non renewal process with consideration of both performance in connection with License standards and "best for the sport" promotion and developmentDefine "best for the sport" and who makes that decision? Define what you mean by performance does this again refer to the abstract subjective definitions as above? How will you make those definable and measurable?4. Development of Software, customized as required for Breed/Discipline. The software would be utilized in reporting entry and result information to USEF. The software will provide for a standardized electronic format specific as required for each Breed/Discipline with provision of universal point achievement recognition system What about shows which are not electronically posted until after the show? What about those who are not electronic at all? What information will you require? Is this just for those classes and divisions which are Rated by the USEF? What if we prefer to use our own software? We already have a format which is compatible with your system why would we need different software?5. Creation of a USEF Competition Achievement Recognition program specific to each Level of competition and utilizing the electronically reported data for manipulation as specified for each Breed and Discipline to provide for appropriate recognition. Also, to re-name the Competition Levels (currently AA, A, B, &C) to a new, more appealing set of titles in connection with Achievement Recognition. Please explain "reported data for manipulation". Is USHJA going to be doing the recording and points for Hunter and Jumper? If so what would be the difference to USEF? What will the levels of Recognition be dependent on?What do you have in mind for Achievement Recognition for various levels? Are there new names now being considered? What will be the definitions of these levels as compared to A/B/C?Task Force Members: John Long, Robert Higgins, Bill Moroney, Robert Ridland and Howard Pike Best regards, John Long
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