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Thursday, December 17, 2009

Tractor Carpool

Ok. I just had to share this ingenius idea.

I think you will enjoy the read...

kansascattleranch.blogspot

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Trust but Verify - How to participate with a Non-Profot

At some point in time we are all exposed to a good cause. Either a friend, an acquaintance, a relative or a brochure can present us with an organized group who are collecting for their cause. When someone with good intentions and high energy approaches us to promote their needy cause we can get emotionally tangled up. Sooner or later if one does catch our attention and hold our interest we may donate time, money or items for the cause. Before you jump in feet first I suggest some background research. First, does the organizaion have a leader with a defined goal and a plan to achieve the goal. How do current volunteers participate and do they offer a positive and friendly environment. Another way to check out an organization is to see how they participate in the community and which businesses support their cause.

Here are two links to start your research.

The First offers a Basic Overview of a Nonprofit group. http://managementhelp.org/org_thry/np_thry/np_intro.htm

The Second offers a look at public records for Non-Profits
http://www.guidestar.org/


Once you have done some homework you will be able to make a decision based upon facts.

Friday, December 4, 2009

BLM Nevada Roundup

BLM Forges Forward With Nevada Calico Complex Roundup

http://rtfitch.wordpress.com/2009/12/03/blm-forges-forward-with-nevada-calico-complex-roundup/

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Thankful

Its a beautiful morning to be Thankful! Friends started calling yesterday and its so great to just hear someones voice! To share the uniqueness between individuals! My family will commune and tradition will follow.

My life is a gift, everyday no matter how many lessons are presented, I understand that God has a great plan for me. I can look back and acknowledge the turns and twists and situations that have led me here!

Today I am just humble and thankful.

Saturday, November 14, 2009

Some People Just Don't Get It

I remember the first song I heard from Taylor Swift, "Stay Beautiful" I told my girlfriend, "that song reminds me of your son Ryan" young, handsome, lots of teens calling him and stuff. We commented how cool it was that when most kids were going to school everyday with "blinders" on, Taylor's world was a canvas for her art. Then when I got the CD, I listened and read the credits in amazement! Her talent seperated her from the crowd.

If you have ever had to "write" a school paper like an "essay" then you know just how difficult it is to get the order of the words just right. It takes hours and dedication to perfect and manipulate the English language and rhetoric to express in short concise sentences!

Next, I want to praise Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, for understanding the concept of "artistic expression". Their ability to step forward and support Taylor Swift brings credibility to the situation. McGraw and Hill, write, perform, produce and move in the music industry so they understand how hard Taylor Swift works. I give them big kudos for stepping up! Supporting Taylor just shows me that McGraw and Hill are real people with their "egos" in check. I saw how Taylor hugged them when they presented her the award. Its people like them who will help her keep the "stardom" at bay and continue to be herself.

In my opinion, when someone critizes another person, they are acting from a "closed" position in the universe. There is enough room to love and to honor someone so talented.

Unfortunately, there will always be someone in the crown that has to go to the dark side!

So thats my little rant about Taylor Swift. I think she is an inspiration. She has the ability to write songs that let other people know they are not alone in those feelings. Right now I think alot of youngsters need someone to lead them in a healthy and positive direction and I believe her songs are just that help.

Thanks All. "Stay Beautiful"

Daily+Express+%7C+Showbiz+%3A%3A+McGraw+%26+Hill+defend+Swift+over+CMAs+success+backlash

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Arizona Cowboy Symposium

One great advantage about living in Arizona is the access to our rich Western History. We have several cities that boast our rich Cowboy culture in their Architectural Style, Cultural Landscape and Social Events. One such event is happens yearly, the second week in November. This year, the Arizona Cowboy Symposium http://www.arizonacowboysymposium.org/ - will hold "A Western Heritage Event" at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds in Sonoita Arizona.

Friday and Saturday 10 am - 5 pm and Sunday 10 am - 4 pm.

Their will be Western Entertainment, Music, Dancing, Food and Trade Vendors.

If you are interested in staying for the weekend, their will be camping available. I would check the website.

The drive from Tucson is a beautiful drive that leaves the Sonoran Desert as you slowly climb into some beautiful grasslands spattered with scrub oak and small ranches.



Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Superstition Artists Studio Tour

The media and interested parties have kept the Wild Horse Plight in the United States in the forefront of our news. Many people on Twitter keep a close eye on herds that are being removed by BLM. Someone who got a first hand look at the Mustangs Karen Mclain. You will really give yourself a little artistic vacation when you stop by http://www.karenmclainstudioblog.com and look at her beautiful work. You can also find her on Twitter @KarenMcLain.

From her blog you will see this subject from an artist perspective! Absolutely Fabulous!

Superstition Studio Tour
Apache Junction Arizona

Nov 7 & 8

9 am - 4 p.m.

2161 E Junction Street
Apache Junction, AZ 85219

Karen has extended an invitation for a visit to her studio during the Tour.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Project 200 Toys

Once again, I have been motivated and moved by another dynamic Cowgirl, Tena Bastian. Like most of us Tena has a busy life between family and her Equine Career. Personal circumstances and her Good Will have combined and she has created "Project 200 Toys" I have included an excerpt from her Blog .

"We have created "Project 200 Toys" which is our effort, with your help, to collect 200 toys for the 180th Fighter Wing of the Air National Guard. Their annual Christmas party is December 3rd and my husband and I want to surprise them with toys for their party. We are giving ourselves now through the month of November to collect 200 toys for their party. We ask for your help with this because we all know that it takes a community to raise a child but it takes all the people we know to raise 200 of them! "

Most of us know someone or have a family member who choose a military career. If you don't the media has given us a front row seat to our modern wars.

Project 200 Toys has suggested gift cards as a way for people to participate. You can mail them to the address provided in Tena's blog.

I wanted to spread the word for such a great Cowgirl with a great big Heart!

http://tenabastian.blogspot.com/2009/10/project-200-toys.html

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Empire Ranch Roundup Open House

I never have to look to hard to find something to do in Arizona. We have such a vast inventory of Historical Places that many are filled up on weekends with events. One such event happening this coming up weekend on Saturday October 24, from 10am to 4pm . The Historic Empire Ranch Roundup and Open House held in Sonoita Arizona.

The theme for this event is "Cowboy Country at Empire Ranch" When you visit the web page; http://www.empireranchfoundation.org/Rndup.htm make sure you scroll down and check out their links to amazing sites full of information about Arizona History.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Empire Ranch Foundation has done a really good job of defining and reaching their objectives.

The landscape around Sonoita is just beautiful. Rolling grassy hills are splattered with scrub oak trees and spotted with ranches. The drive down is very enjoyable.

Monday, October 19, 2009

Country Thunder Arizona 2010

It might not be to early to start planning. Organizers sent out an announcement today with 2 important announcements. First, they have seperated the dates for NASCAR fans so you can attend both venues. Second, they have $99.00 passes available for purchase... check it out http://www.countrythunder.com/ct_2003/assets/07web/az/mainaz.html

Coconino County "Potato Fire" Map

From the Official Coconino National Forrest Twitter Page here is a map of fire location. http://Share photos on twitter with Twitpic

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Juliet R Harrison Photography Sale

Artist and Author of "White Horses" announces a "Sale" of limited editions that are available at her website http://www.julietrharrisonphotography.com/

"Hope on Horseback"

One of my "things" in life is to practice random acts of kindness. I believe whole heartidly that what you give in life is what you get back. If you tweet with me you will receive my "Cowgirl Spirit" for support.

Also, I am fortunate in life to have life long girlfriends from elementary school. Many of our Parents when to School together during the 1930's & 1940's in Tucson Arizona. We still ride horses together and "commune" regularly with our families. Our children are almost adults now and we have great friendships with these "youngins". This got me to thinking about people who might be "disconnected" from a strong support group.


As you may know by now I am a Twitter Cowgirl! Which has allowed me to meet some other "Tweeps" who have fast become another support group for me. I like to share the stories of people I meet on Twitter, like Emily-Jo Peak who is an Alabama Cowgirl her Profile is "@ausunshine". Emily-Jo Peak describes herself as "A 30 something wife, mother and horse owner, sometimes paid photographer, trying to live each moment like it's her last and full fill a dream or 2 in the process". You can find Emily on Facebook and Twitter.

Emily is an inspiration to all us "Modern Cowgirls", between Family and Horsing around she is involved with a great organization called "Storybook Farm". This non-profit combines Horses and Special Needs children up to age 25. You can hear her speak @ http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Cowgirlliferadio/2009/10/02/Hope-On-Horseback



I have enclosed the link and hope you check it out!


http://www.story-book-farm.org/

Friday, September 4, 2009

Traditional Black and White Equestrian Art

So I'm hanging out on Twitter the other day, and I received a message from @lecheval (Le Cheval) about one of my Cowboy Boot Panel Purses. She tells me she likes it, so I reply with a "lets talk". So we began our negotiations and I was offered an autographed book from this multi-talented author. When we concluded our transaction, and I did a little research about the author.
@lecheval is Juliet Harrison, MFA. Ms. Harrison is published artist specializing in Black and White photography. The horse is one of her subjects. She began publishing in 1991 and exhibiting in 2005. Her current publication "White Horses - From the Literal to the Sublime" Author: Juliet R Harrison, takes the reader through 28 abstract images of the horse.

"White Horses" and a selection of prints are available at her website http://www.julietrharrisonphotography.com/

Currently Ms. Harrison is anticipating her next showing:

Silo Gallery at the Hunt Hill Farm Trust New Milford, New York September 12th - October 18th, 2009.

2 Person Show Opening Reception - September 12th 3-5pm

Artist's Talk - September 20th at 2pm.






For more information - contact the artist at 845-758-2667 or julietharrison@earthlink.net





All image on this site are Copyright Protected. No reproduction of images without written permission of the artist.

Saturday, August 22, 2009

Cowgirl Historian telling a tall tale

When I started my Ebay business I never imaginaed the world that would open up to be. I knew my product lines and I knew accounting but I knew nothing about marketing. In my second year I began to take classes about internet marketing. Those classes led me to Twitter. I began using Twitter in July of 2008 and my expectations were for business connections. What I have found on Twitter are many dynamic and interesting people. I feel so fortunate to have a lens into such fascinating people.

One such person is Shirley Morris, a Cowgirl, a Historian, an Artist, a Writer and a Documentary Film Producer. Her Twitter profile is "The Lone Cowgirl" http://thelonecowgirl.blogspot.com/.

I had the priviledge of speaking with Shirley, which afforded me the opportunity to realize I had met one fascinating Cowgirl. Shirley exudes what I like to call "Cowgirl Spirit".

Today on Twitter, Shirley Morris, "The Lone Cowgirl" posted this link to an article in the Writers of America publication, "Roundup" by Dan R. Manning. Mr. Manning, article is informative and can be found at http://www.westernwriters.org/roundup.html

I hope you enjoy this interesting reading.

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Woman and Horses Expo

Heres the links for one incredible event! Check it out on Twitter @LazyEArena


The Women and Horse Mind, Spirit & Body Seminars

The Women and Horses Versatility Challenge

The Hands On Horse Experience

"Meet the Breeds Avenue"

Rare Breeds Horse Show





November 6-8, 2009
Lazy E Arena Guthrie, OK




Call or e-mail for more information:
405-225-6584 --> -->
horsewomanexpo@aol.com


Click here for printable brochure
Our New Program "Horses for a Better World" will benefit:
for breast cancer research

Friday, August 7, 2009

The Equss Project Aug 9 & 10

"An Evening with Equus" shows at 6 p.m. August 9 and 10 at Heart of the Horse Farm, 21901 Vashon Hwy SW, Vashon Island. There will be a post-performance Q & A with light refreshments. Arrive early, as overflow parking is a short walk from the performance site. Advance ticket purchase only: $25 from Books by the Way, 9923 SW Bank Rd. Vashon, or by contacting equus@karlcronin.com. Rehearsals are open to the public August 5-7 for $10 / day. To attend a rehearsal, call 718-916-3528.

Monday, July 27, 2009

The Cloud Foundation

I just got this info from @wildwindart on Twitter. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2qp_EXnlXxg. Thought It might be of interest. There seems to be alot of information regarding the future of Wild Horses and range Management.

Friday, July 17, 2009

Restore Our American Mustangs Act (H.R.1018),

Every once in a while something political will catch my eye...

if you want to ready an interesting arguement regarding Restore Our American Mustangs Act (H.R.1018),

"Let’s get this straight. We’re debating a bill to spend millions of dollars to save wild horses, but yesterday, Democrats in the House blocked Republicans from offering an amendment to prevent federal dollars from being spent on saving unborn children. Oh yeah, $700 million today to save wild horses and burros – and yesterday we weren’t allowed to offer an amendment to save the lives of unborn kids. That doesn’t make sense to me, but I think most of my constituents would look up and go, well, that’s just Washington being Washington."

http://republicanleader.house.gov/News/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=137987

Thursday, July 16, 2009

The Best Way to Sneak Another Horse Into Home

Ok I just had to post this from Twitter....
http://iceryder.net/anotherhorse.html
http://icehorses.net/http://clickryder.com/ [IceHorses]

How To Sneak Another Horse Home Judy Ryder
[IceHorses] How To Sneak Another Horse Home

Judy RyderFri, 14 Dec 2007 13:35:54 -0800

14 WAYS TO SNEAK ANOTHER HORSE HOME

14. Move the fish to the cellar, the goats to the kitchen, the uncle
to the sofa and the dogs to the barn. Rotate weekly. Add a horse
to the mix on the fifth week. Stop the rotation when the horse gets
to the barn. Confused but grateful spouse won't question further.

13. Tell your spouse that "Ed" is here to repair the cable.

12. "This? This isn't a horse. This is a Common Black-Throated
Northern Debt-Precursor."

11. Organize a clandestine Equine Underground Pipeline. Connect to
breeders and trainers across several states.

10. Throw a hundred-dollar bill behind the couch. Yell, "Fetch!"
While the family members are fighting it out, you can sneak anything
(up to and including a troop of Marines) up the drive, past the
house and into the paddock.

9. Blame El Nino: The new horse washed in at high tide.

8. Wait for Halloween. Dress the new horse in a bad horse costume
and march him right into the barn.

7. Swear it's your best friend's new horse, come to live here only
until she breaks the news to her husband. Meanwhile, Sue can be
pulling the same trick in your name at her house.

6. Start housing the kids out in the barn to explain your long
absences from the house and your frequent comings and goings.

5. Have UPS deliver the new horse in several separate boxes over a
period of several days.

4. Big collar. Dog tags. Poodle trim. Insist on calling the new
mare AKC Fantasyland's FiFi Splendiphoria.

3. Sneak horse in at midnight. Return to house wearing only a
trench coat and negligee. Confess untruthfully to a lesser
offense: having a torrid affair with the hay man.

2. Don't buy another horse. Join the German Exchange Program; you
feed, house and culturally broaden the horizons of young German-born
Hanoverian for two years. (You have to mail the neighbor's elderly
pony Stuey off to Hannover for the 'exchange' part)

And the best way to sneak another horse into the home is:

1. "This horse isn't ours, dear. He says he's on a scavenger hunt
and has to find two suckers with a checkbook."

" Life is like shoveling manure........ just when you think your getting
ahead... there's always another pile"

http://iceryder.net/anotherhorse.html
Judy
http://icehorses.net/
http://clickryder.com/
[IceHorses] How To Sneak Another Horse Home Judy Ryder
Reply via email to

Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo

If you are fortunate to be in the area you won't want to miss: The Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo is about to get underway. Go to their website for the specific times and dates: http://www.cfdrodeo.com/. They will have a Carnival Midway, Cheyenne Frontier Days™ Old West Museum will be open July 14th - 26th. PRCA rodeo members will team with special needs children on July 22 - 23 for a modified Rodeo. Alot of fun will be had at the Chuck Wagon Cookoff July 22 - 25th. And of course this weekend July 18th George Strait will perform with Julianne Hough.

Sunday, June 28, 2009

The United Organizations of The Horse

I recently found this link on Twitter and wanted to post it. This is a viable resource for many types of "Horse" people. Just wanted to state their pledge:

"We, the members and contributors to the United Organizations of the Horse have pledged that all horses that we own or manage shall be treated humanely from birth through death."

Heres the link: http://www.unitedorgsofthehorse.org

Friday, June 19, 2009

Acronyms for Text Messaging

Here's a link to a long list of Acronyms for Text Messaging. After months of fighting it, I have become, yes, ready, "a texter" I text with children and Cowboy Mr. O. I have to say it is convient and alot less expensive that cell phone minutes. When I saw this tweet I thought there might be others who will benefit from this list. So, here it is. Check it out. http://www.netlingo.com/acronyms.php

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Horse Rescue "After The Finish Line"

After the Finish Line Supporters,

After the Finish Line is hosting their summer fundraiser, "A Tribute to the Majesty of Thoroughbreds", on Thursday, July 30th from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm at The Hilton Hotel ~ Del Mar. Our fundraiser will coincide with the Del Mar race meet. The excitement is building as the RSVP's and auction items arrive daily. Please consider making a donation to the fundraiser if you are unable to attend. Your support is greatly appreciated.


Dawn Mellen, PresidentAfter the Finish Line
3525 Del Mar Heights Rd, PMB 397
San Diego, CA 92130
dawn@afterthefinishline.org
www.afterthefinishline.org
858/350.1371
For the full Newsletter follow the link.

Thursday, June 11, 2009

The Candle Ranch

Here is one of my friends from Twitter who is a Mom of 6 and Founder of The Candle Ranch and Candles For A Purpose.She has stated in her bio that she has centered my business around helping others, one scent at at time. You can find them on Twitter as TheCandleRanch. I wanted to repost this link because they have a special coupon for 25% discount.

http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs029/1102594601122/archive/1102596657011.html

Please help support The Candle Ranch!

Young Rider Contest

http://www.YoungRider.com has a great website oriented towards the young rider. Not only is the layout adorable, it looks very user friendly. Right now there is a photo contest for Horse Kids. This sounds like an interesting summer project.... Check It out..

Monday, June 8, 2009

Rocket Buster Boots

Yesterday I had the chance to sneak into the office early and catch one of the Sunday morning news shows. One of the features was about http://www.rocketbuster.com a custom boot store in El Paso, Texas. I love me some Cowboy Boots and have a simple collection which includes; daily boots, work boots, boots that can get wet and my ever coveted dress boots. Rocket Buster Boots are Boots x 10. I just had to share the link because of the individual beauty in the designs.

Thursday, May 21, 2009

Easy Boot For Horse

I just received notification from Easy Care Inc. that their new Easy Boot Edge is available. I have included the link to their online store for convience. http://www.easycareinc.com/our_boots/easyboot_edge/easyboot_edge.aspx

I also included this ink to a good article regarding Navicular Syndrome.
One Last Chance A Hoof Care Practitioner’s Story of a Horse With Navicular

By Steve Karshner
I hear stories every day from my clients about horses they think I could help, if only the owners were open to natural hoof care. I try not to ponder these cases too much because it usually doesn't help the horse, and it only makes me feel bad that I couldn't do something to intervene. But last spring I started hearing about a horse in our local area. He had been purchased by one of my client’s friends and had been diagnosed with Navicular Syndrome. More...

Friday, May 15, 2009

A Little Trout Fishing In The Spring

Every year just before summer and right after summer I go Trout Fishing in the White Mountains of Arizona www.whitemountainsonline.com. Once the temperature in the desert valleys of arizona go over 95 most Arizonians run right up the Mogolliam Rim (pronounced Mo-gu-ium) www.amwest-travel.com/awt_azhigh.html Many people own a 2nd home or haul an RV up into the most beautiful areas of Arizona! Once we re-group in the nice temperatures of the Pined Mountains.... we Fish, Ride Horses, Read, Nap, Motocross, Hike, Discover and visit many of our wonderful State and National Parks.

If you want to see what I am talking about and check out some of our records... follow http://www.wmonline.com/attract/Trout.htm

Meanwhile... It's some time off for a few days, and most of all... a break from the heat!

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Western States Horse Exposition

The "Western States Horse Exposition" or WSHE 2009 will be held in Sacramento CA June 12 - 14 2009. I received an email reminding everyone that their Credential Request Forms are now due on May 15, 2009. All exhibitors will receive two 3-day Exhibitor Badges per 10 x 10 booth space, 5 horse trailer in "Rigs & Digs" and 400 square feet in "The Ranch" . Breed Association Exhibitors will receive two badges per stall ordered. Additional badges can be ordered at a cost of $15.00 per badge. NO PARKING SPACES are included with your space! They ask that you order your parking spaces to accommodate your needs. Cost = $20.00 for 3-day pass which does include the coming and going priviledge. Sounds pretty fair! or $7.00 for a 1 day parking pass but no in and out priviledge. Each Breed Association will receive one pass for parking on the grass levee near the barns.

Western States Horse Expo • June 12-14, 2009at Cal Expo Fairgrounds in Sacramento, California(530)295-1424 • (800)352-2411

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

In Need of a Vacation At a Guest Ranch

So last night I was talking to the infamous "Mr. O" and we decided I just need a mini vacation! Not the kind where you have to get on a plane and pack and do all this work to relax. Just one of those rambling drives through Arizona with no agenda. So today I decided to change the slide show on the blog........First I searched for Vintage Cowboy Boots and I got all these "ads" for crazy things... plus a blonde girl in a black lace gown with Cowboy Boots..(not sure what is vintage about that) Then I tried #Arizona Guest Ranches and started to get some beautiful pictures! That is what I am thinking.... Starting off at #Essence of Tranquility http://www.azhotmineralspring.com in Safford.. I have spent alot of time enjoying the 6 tubs and nice little casitas. The casitas are rented for $60.00 a night and their is a main house with TV, Internet, Movies, full kitchen, showers etc for all to use. This place is really off the map, but it is also really relaxing. A Family of women run the place, and provide massage, reflexology and just a nice quiet time. Clarise, a sister, is the most fascinating artist! She has lots of hand drawn art around the house and she sells these little books filled with Art and Positive Affirmations! So, if all goes right, and Mr. O can get the barn full of Hay without me, I think I will just sneak off. Time to renew my #Cowgirl Spirit.

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Are we worming our horses too often?

I received this link from a Twitter friend and thought the article was worth passing on... Especially since I just bought wormer. I am always asking myself if I am worming too much. I justify my schedule due to desert dryness and dust blowing, and the sandy earth the horses live on. So here is the link... let me know what you think...http://is.gd/ubwt

Thursday, April 16, 2009

Pima County Fair Tucson Arizona April 16 - 26

The Annual Pima County Fair, April 16 – 26, 2009 is Tucson’s largest annual event, featuring concerts, food, exhibits, attractions, car shows, animals and more! www.pimacountyattractions.com


The Best part of the 2009 fair! Wristband night is my
Birthday!

Thursday, April 9, 2009

Horse Rescue Resource in Alabama

Agregg Farm
Contact:Ellen Gregg
AAEP Guildelines: No

8461 US HWY 278
Tax Exempt:No

Hamilton, AL 35570
Type of facility: Other
Phone:(205) 921-2253
Year Founded:1950
Fax:( )
Capacity (horses):20
Website:
No. of Staff:2
E-mail:
egregg@centurytel.net
Acres:
800


This is a family farm that has been in operation for 57 years. Our goal is to have a number of horses that can be ridden by children who do not have their own, and to provide a home for horses who must be placed or will not have adequate grazing. We have more than enough pasture, as we have sold off the majority of our cattle. I do have a shoer, but I mostly have my horses trimmed,unless they need more. We have automatic waterers, so we do not have a problem with that

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Unwanted Horse Coalition

Once again, I am re=posting this information:

Unfortunately another part of our society that is suffering from the economic downturn are Horses. Many people are unable to continue to care for their family pets. At the American Horse Council website they have a list of Organizations accepting these Unwanted horses.

http://www.americanhorsecouncil.org

Stay posted for the information of rescue organizations around the country

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

The State of our Economy

I have a huge problem regarding the lay offs of 100's of teachers in the Tucson Unified School District. I'm not sure if this is just the right decision to make for the children. I just wonder how many of these students are already dealing with a parent who has lost their job? Or maybe their family has lost their home? How about the summer programs for the underprivileged children? Will these programs also affected? How can we continue to miss the point with our society?

Two weeks ago I was watching T.V. with my girls.... they were watching the top 20 earning entertainers. These numbers were astonishing! Gwen Steffani earned 28 million dollars in 2008. I watched this show in disbelief and then walked around quoting these figures to people for the next 2 weeks....

I won't even get started about the big bailouts resting on the shoulders of the working class. I don't understand how unconnected with the real world these bailouts are.

Ok... so my point is: I just feel like we are living upside down. Our kids deserve the bailout package.. they will benefit the most.

Monday, April 6, 2009

Wounded Warrior Project

Last Night on the American Country Music Awards there was a tribute to our Wounded and Fallen Soldiers... just wanted to get the link out www.wouldedwarriorproject.org out into the world.

Saturday, March 28, 2009

Hillside Stable Retraining Facility Unwanted Horse Coalition

Hillside Stable
Contact:
Karen Nelson AAEP Guildelines: Yes
53269 RR221 Tax Exempt: No
Ardrossan, AB T8E2M7 Type of facility: Retraining Facility
Phone: (780) 922-8007 Year Founded:2005
Fax:( ) Capacity (horses): 30
Website: www.compassionatehorsetraining.com No. of Staff: 2
E-mail: karen@compassionatehorsetraining.com Acres: 37

Heated Indoor riding facility with 9 stalls various turn out options. will be adding pasture turn out in 2008. Regular vet and farrier visits. Trainer on site.

Friday, March 27, 2009

American Horse Council Unwanted Horse Coalition

Our mission is to protect & prevent the abuse of equine through edeucation, advocay, rescue operations and investigations. We work closely with local law enforcement and often take in animals that have been seized under the animal protection act. Our ideal goal for every animal taken in, is to rehab and then rehome. But we do have a number of animals that due to age, health, or trainability issues are permanent residents of our sanctuary. We also place horses in foster situations while we look for permanent homes for them. Starting in 2008 we are going to be starting a program where we bring teens in crisis out to spend time with the horses.


Wild Rose Equine Rescue
Contact:
Nanci Cook AAEP Guildelines: Yes
20521 17 Street N Tax Exempt: No
Edmonton, AB T5Y 6J8 Type of facility: Rescue Group
Phone:(780) 604-3233 Year Founded: 2006
Fax: (780) 401-1001 Capacity (horses): 20
Website: members.shaw.ca/wildroseequine No. of Staff: 5
E-mail: wildroseequine@shaw.ca

Thursday, March 26, 2009

Stone Raven Ranch Horse Rehab Center

We have 149 acres with a rehab center for horses, and we also take in retired horses. Some are used for limited riding or lessons or just retired. They are well cared for. My husband is an animal chiropractor and I am a Farrier and nutritionist

StoneRaven Ranch
53228 R.R.#1 Hwy 43
Carvel, AB T0E0H0

Contact: Dan or Linda Martin

AAEP Guildelines: No
Tax Exempt: No
Carvel, AB T0E0H0
Type of facility:
Retirement Facility

Phone: (780) 967-4806
Year Founded: 2003
Capacity (horses): 15
Website: http://www.stoneravenranch.com/
No. of Staff: 2
E-mail:
stnraven@netkaster.ca
Acres: 149
We have 149 acres with a rehab center for horses, and we also take in retired horses. Some are used for limited riding or lessons or just retired. They are well cared for. My husband is an animal chiropractor and I am a Farrier and nutritionist

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Arizona Renaissance Festival

February 7th - March 29, 2009
Saturdays, Sundays & President's Day, 10:00 AM until 6:00 PM
The annual Arizona Renaissance Festival is a medieval amusement park, a 12-stage theater, a 30-acre circus, an arts and crafts fair, a jousting tournament and a feast -- all rolled into one non-stop, day-long family adventure.

Indulge yourself in handmade products at the AZ Renaissance Festival's artisan marketplace. The village has over 200 elaborately adorned shops offering an array of goods.

Find unique items like a sheep's wool boa, a blown glass ornament, perfume, or leather goods. Watch artisans work as they create a masterpiece right before your eyes!

http://emol.org/azrenfest/

Friday Night Bull Riding at Rawhide.

Description From Event details at AZcentral.com!: All ages open bull riding. Times are at 7:30 and 9 p.m. To compete in bull riding, sign up through R.C. Mercer Livestock and Rodeo. See Web site for dates. Rawhide at Wild Horse Pass 5700 W. North Loop Road Chandler, 85226 October 3, 2008 - May 29, 2009 Friday, 7:30 PM

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

American Horse Council Notice regarding government oney for Trails

I received a quick notice from Trail Alert and wanted to check it out. According to Trail Alert the American Horse Council is discussing the allocation of Funding for Trails in the Stimulus Bill. I'm intrigued that I actually am hearing about some of these funds. At the American Horse Council Website http://www.horsecouncil.org/pressreleases/2009_BenefitinStimAct4HI.php where I found this article. There is alot of interesting information. Their contact information is American Horse Council1616 H Street NW7th floorWashington, DC 20006Phone: 202-296-4031Fax: 202-296-1970.

Monday, March 16, 2009

Tickets for Country Thunder in Arizona

I received an email today that Country Thunder as a one day ticket available. You can buy a one-day General Admission ticket for Wednesday $35.00 or $65.00 for Thursday, Friday or Saturday! http://www.countrythunder.com/ April 1 - 4th 2009. Arizona

Fly Predators as a control system for Horse Stables

The plastic bag was sealed tight. The shreaded wood chips allowed the dark cocoons to rattle around. Nothing was moving. I picked up the sealed bag and watched carefully for 3 days. One morning my mom called me "The bag is full of ants. The ants have eaten all the flies. Well later that morning I went straight for the predator flies infested with ants! Hmmmm... looks just like it always looks except this time the etsy bitty little flies are scurrying around as they escape their cocoons. I take bag into the kitchen and fix up some coffee and my mom and I give these tiny little flies a good once over. No ants. just tiny little flies. We started with Predator Flies the summer of 2006. We were not able to deploy flies for a full season. 2006 was the summer I broke my leg, ankle and foot. That was the summer that I left my dream ranch and moved back to town. I received my last shipments in town. However, 2007 and 2008 we spread the cocoons around the corrals on the manufacturers schedule for our region. I do notice a difference.

I first heard about Fly Predators while volunteering at a Horse Rescue. Everyone was a buzz with this new fad. I had no previous experience with the concept but the hypothesis makes perfect sense. So what are Predator Flies? Do they look like ants? According to Garden Insections The fly Parasites predator are the naturally occurring enemy of all manure breeding pest flies.Check it out! http://www.gardeninsects.com/flyParasites.asp

Thursday, March 12, 2009

University of Arizona in Tucson Collects Ballroom Gowns

On Saturday February 21st, 2009 the Arizona Daily Star wrote an article regarding a group of University of Arizona students. These students identified a need in our community and have organized a program where people can donate their used Prom/Ball/Graduation gowns. Between 10 am and 4pm every Friday until the end of March 2009, people can donate gowns at the University of Arizona Mall. An email address was provided as beckyb@happilyeverafteraz.org I was very inspired by the article and wanted to get the information out there! These girls really have the Cowgirl Spirit!

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Unwanted Horses

Unwanted Horse Coalition1616 H Street, NW7th FloorWashington, DC 20006202-296-4031202-296-1970 (fax)http://www.unwantedhorsecoalition.org/

Trust but Verify - How to participate with a Non-Profot

At some point in time we are all exposed to a good cause. Either a friend, an acquaintance, a relative or a brochure can present us with an organized group who are collecting for their cause. When someone with good intentions and high energy approaches us to promote their needy cause we can get emotionally tangled up. Sooner or later if one does catch our attention and hold our interest we may donate time, money or items for the cause. Before you jump in feet first I suggest some background research. First, does the organizaion have a leader with a defined goal and a plan to achieve the goal. How do current volunteers participate and do they offer a positive and friendly environment. Another way to check out an organization is to see how they participate in the community and which businesses support their cause.

Here are two links to start your research.

The First offers a Basic Overview of a Nonprofit group. http://managementhelp.org/org_thry/np_thry/np_intro.htm

The Second offers a look at public records for Non-Profits
http://www.guidestar.org/


Once you have done some homework you will be able to make a decision based upon facts.

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Montgomery Gentry

If you want to see a wild and elaborate collection of "Enhanced Designs" on leather, you need to see Montgomery Gentry perform! Two years ago at the Arizona State Fair we lucked out on a Free Concert featuring Montgomery Gentry! WOW is all I can say! Even our teenage daughters had a blast! These guys have some serious leather jackets! Check Out the official web site @ montgomerygentry.musiccitynetworks.com

Friday, February 27, 2009

University of Arizona Junior Organizes Prom Gown Donations!

Every morning I take a short drive over to my parents home. This is the home where I lived as a child and also where my Horses live. My 86 year old mother is a voracious reader. She reads the newspaper front to back and collects articles to share with her friends and family. On Saturday February 21st, 2009 the Arizona Daily Star wrote an article regarding a group of University of Arizona students. These students identified a need in our community and have organized a program where people can donate their used Prom/Ball/Graduation gowns.

Between 10 am and 4pm every Friday until the end of March 2009, people can donate gowns at the University of Arizona Mall. An email address was provided as beckyb@happilyeverafteraz.org

I was very inspired by the article and wanted to get the information out there!

These girls really have the Cowgirl Spirit!

Thursday, February 26, 2009

Sharla Brown Jump Clinic Postponed!

LAHorseRidingdue to lots of rain, sharla brown jump clinic now Sunday, March 15. call 818-569-3666 for the 411.

Contagious Equine Metritis

News Worthy: United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, following:
http://www.aphis.usda.gov/newsroom/hot_issues/cem/index.shtml

"What is CEM?Contagious Equine Metritis (CEM) is a sexually transmitted disease among horses caused by a bacteria Taylorella equigenitalis. Clinical signs may include a mucopurulent vaginal discharge in up to 40% of affected mares, abortion and infertility. Stallions typically show no clinical signs. Stallions and mares can become chronic carriers of CEM and be sources of infection for future outbreaks. The transmission rate is high and naturally occurs by mating, but contaminated instruments and equipment may be an indirect source of infecting mares and stallions. The bacteria can also be spread via semen collected for artificial insemination."

click on the link to read current news!

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Unwanted Horses

Unwanted Horse Coalition1616 H Street, NW7th FloorWashington, DC 20006202-296-4031202-296-1970 (fax)www.unwantedhorsecoalition.org

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

La Fiesta De Los Vaqueros

Our annual rodeo is off and running! If you are looking at the results, just follow this link http://www.tucsonrodeo.com for information.

Where is Geronimos Skull?

Headline News this afternoon: I asking "where is Geronimo's skull" ??? His family claims in 1918 Yale stole it..... letter from Yale's secret order of "bonesmen" states that the skull is in their Tomb. Fox News has a good article @ http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2009/02/17/geronimos-great-grandson-asks-yale-fraternity-return-ancestors-skull/.

Monday, February 23, 2009

Rodeo Week In Tucson Arizona

When we are young children a vacation from school is always welcome. Well in Tucson Arizona the last week of February is always Rodeo Vacation! How cool is that? Tucson Unified School district schedules Thursday and Friday as "Rodeo Vacation" When I was young, I thought all schools had Rodeo Vacation! I rode in our Rodeo Parade "La Fiesta de los Vaqueros" (The Fiest of the Cowboy's) I rode once as Old Fashion Fire Engines! On a budget of about $0 dollars, we died the sheets red and made ladders out of scrap wood and painted them black! Once I rode representing the 3 styles of horseback riding; English, Western and Bareback. I also rode with my 4-H group.... don't remember much about that except I needed "kelly green" pants. My mom shopped for those pants without much luck. We rode through the downtown area and it was really great fun!

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Friday Night Bull Riding At Rawhide in Phoenix

DescriptionFrom Event details at AZcentral.com!: All ages can participate in open bull riding. Times are at 7:30 and 9 p.m. To compete in bull riding, sign up through R.C. Mercer Livestock and Rodeo. See Web site for dates.

Rawhide at Wild Horse Pass
5700 W. North Loop Road
Chandler, 85226


October 3, 2008 - May 29, 2009
Friday, 7:30 PM




PRICE: $3 - $7 : $7; $3 for ages 3-12
PHONE: 480-502-5600
ON THE WEB:
http://www.rawhide.com




From Official Website: Friday Night Bull Riding has returned to Rawhide. It takes place in the Livery; is sanctioned by the Southwest Pro Bull Riders and consists of open bull riding, novice bull riding and sheep riding for the kids.
Show times at night: 7:30pm & 9:00pm.
Admission Cost:
$7.00 for adults and $3 for kids (ages 3 to 12). Entry fee if you are interested in riding:
$75 for open bull riding.
$65 for novice riders.
$1 for sheep riding.
If you are interested in riding, please contact RC Mercer at 602-237-3000 .
Cost$3 - $7 : $7; $3 for ages 3-12

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Facebook and Intellectual Property

On Facebook, People Own and Control Their InformationShare
by Mark Zuckerberg Mon 3:09pm
A couple of weeks ago, we updated our terms of use to clarify a few points for our users. A number of people have raised questions about our changes, so I'd like to address those here. I'll also take the opportunity to explain how we think about people's information.

Our philosophy is that people own their information and control who they share it with. When a person shares information on Facebook, they first need to grant Facebook a license to use that information so that we can show it to the other people they've asked us to share it with. Without this license, we couldn't help people share that information.

One of the questions about our new terms of use is whether Facebook can use this information forever. When a person shares something like a message with a friend, two copies of that information are created—one in the person's sent messages box and the other in their friend's inbox. Even if the person deactivates their account, their friend still has a copy of that message. We think this is the right way for Facebook to work, and it is consistent with how other services like email work. One of the reasons we updated our terms was to make this more clear.

In reality, we wouldn't share your information in a way you wouldn't want. The trust you place in us as a safe place to share information is the most important part of what makes Facebook work. Our goal is to build great products and to communicate clearly to help people share more information in this trusted environment.

We still have work to do to communicate more clearly about these issues, and our terms are one example of this. Our philosophy that people own their information and control who they share it with has remained constant. A lot of the language in our terms is overly formal and protective of the rights we need to provide this service to you. Over time we will continue to clarify our positions and make the terms simpler.

Still, the interesting thing about this change in our terms is that it highlights the importance of these issues and their complexity. People want full ownership and control of their information so they can turn off access to it at any time. At the same time, people also want to be able to bring the information others have shared with them—like email addresses, phone numbers, photos and so on—to other services and grant those services access to those people's information. These two positions are at odds with each other. There is no system today that enables me to share my email address with you and then simultaneously lets me control who you share it with and also lets you control what services you share it with.

We're at an interesting point in the development of the open online world where these issues are being worked out. It's difficult terrain to navigate and we're going to make some missteps, but as the leading service for sharing information we take these issues and our responsibility to help resolve them very seriously. This is a big focus for us this year, and I'll post some more thoughts on openness and these other issues soon.

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Important Changes to Facebook

Facebook Privacy Change Sparks Federal Complaint
JR Raphael, PC World

Feb 17, 2009 3:37 pm



facebook faces privacy backlash over change in terms of use of networkThe backlash against Facebook's updated privacy policies is about to expand. The Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC) is preparing to file a formal complaint with the Federal Trade Commission over the social network's updated licenses, PC World has learned.

"We think that Facebook should go back to its original terms of service," says EPIC Executive Director Marc Rotenberg.

EPIC expects to have its complaint submitted to the FTC by the end of Tuesday.

Wide-Reaching Reaction

The wave of reaction, of course, is hardly limited to official organizations. More than 38,000 Facebook users have joined a user group protesting the change, and countless blogs and news sites have written extensively about their concerns. The issue comes down to a couple of alterations within the company's terms of use that, it would seem, give Facebook eternal ownership of your personal content--even if you decide to delete your account.

The changes were actually made in early February but not widely noticed until Sunday, when The Consumerist's Chris Walters stumbled upon the subtly shifted language. The section in question explains how Facebook has an "irrevocable, perpetual" license to use your "name, likeness, and image" in essentially any way, including within promotions or external advertising.

That clause, Walters noted, wasn't new. What had changed was that a sentence at the end of the paragraph was now mysteriously missing. The deleted line stated that the license would "automatically expire" if you removed your content. With that line omitted, Facebook's license to use your content is simply "perpetual" and "irrevocable," even decades after you delete your stuff.

Damage Control Doubt

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has attempted to calm the concerns, posting a blog entry stating that "people own their information" and that Facebook "wouldn't share [it] in a way you wouldn't want." As an example of why the controversial clause is needed in its updated form, Zuckerberg explains that even if you were to delete your account, any messages you had sent to a friend would still remain in his inbox--so Facebook requires the expanded rights to make sure that could happen.

Isn't that a far cry, though, from anything that'd warrant retaining a "perpetual" license to "use, copy, publish, stream, store, retain, publicly perform or display, transmit, scan, reformat, modify, edit, frame, translate, excerpt, [and] adapt" any content you've ever uploaded, including the option to "use your name, likeness and image for any purpose"?

Something doesn't quite add up.

Social Network Comparisons

Hey, maybe I'm misreading this. Could Facebook just be catching up with social network standards? Could everyone be overreacting?

Turns out, no. MySpace's terms of use agreement grants the company the license to use your non-private content only within MySpace-related services. Moreover--and perhaps more important--MySpace notes that once you delete something from its site, it "will cease distribution as soon as practicable, and at such time when distribution ceases, the license will terminate."

With Twitter, the company's terms of service state it "claim[s] no intellectual property rights over the material you provide" and that "you can remove your profile at any time by deleting your account."

Even YouTube, owned by privacy advocate punching bag Google, limits its license to use your content at will. The license will "terminate within a commercially reasonable time after you remove or delete your user videos," the service's terms of service say.

Facebook's neverending lease on your online life, then, isn't exactly the norm. Perhaps you can take comfort in the fact, though, that Facebook could change its policies again without ever telling you. "We reserve the right, at our sole discretion, to change or delete portions of these terms at any time without further notice," Facebook's agreement says. "Your continued use of the Facebook service after any such changes constitutes your acceptance of the new terms."

Well, that's at least reassuring. Anyone else having Beacon flashbacks right now?

Friday, February 13, 2009

Two Naughty Girls on a Warm Winter afternoon

I just heard from daughter that the delivery guy did in fact load the hay in the barn and then he locked the gate on the way out....... well when I was her age I wouldn't have know where my keys were either, so she had to call to the main house and wait for grandma to get out to the gate with a key...... then once she got the gate open....... she was tricked by the prangsters; Elizabeth and Star. Evidently they were determined to continued their afternoon escapades and escaped into Aunt Helen's big field! There they snooped around the Horse Trailer, checked out the bird food, nibbled on some free growing bermuda grass. Sister told me they could not be bribed with pellets, or treats! So now, Daughter had to use all her Cowgirl skills today! Both of the playful girls are blanketed and back in the corral with Sydney and Max. Whew.... that's what makes horses so much fun!

The How to on Creating Lariat Art

The How to on Creating Lariat Art
By Elizabeth Sahd

Elizabeth Sahd
Level: Basic

In 1998, a friend who team ropes, gave me a basket made from his used lariats. I had never seen anything like it. It was great! You could put a plant, pens, or the five remotes that sat on top of my TV in it. After receiving this basket, I was determined to create my own lariat items.

I have used many ways to hold the rope together, such as hot glue and a propane torch. I can tell you the best way is with a soldering iron. An iron with a wide tip, and heats up to 750 degrees is the best. You do not want the iron too hot; it will unravel your rope, especially if you have a real crisp one. With 750 degrees, the rope melts gradually and you can work with it better. Oh, and you might want to purchase welding gloves, sometimes your hand will slip and well, it hurts!

One lariat is usually 32 to 35 feet long. I can make a small basket with one lariat. Dimensions are about 8 inches diameter x 6-7 inches high. At one end of the rope there is a hondo, at the other end, a tassel. Take either end to start with, make a loop and where the rope meets take your soldering iron and seal the seam. You are basically melting the rope together and it creates it's own glue. There is smoke produced, so I recommend doing this outside for the smoke is a bit toxic. You can repeat your melting in a couple inch intervals or one continuous line. You will notice that with inch intervals it creates a pattern down your basket, which is nice. When you get a few loops into your basket, try to judge the amount of rope it will take to make the bottom of your basket. You will want to save a foot or so of the end of the lariat to add to the top of your basket. You connect the tassel into the hondo for a complete look.

Then, get creative! Add conchos, feathers or make a design on the outside with your soldering iron. The possibilities are endless. Experiment with shapes as well. Of course they will be roundish, just because of the natural bend in the rope, but you can start small at the top of your basket and widen out or start wide and end narrow, like a vase.

Elizabeth Sahd has been working from home since 2004. She can be reached at macwestern@yahoo.com or Gettin' A Little Western

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elizabeth_Sahd

Thursday, February 12, 2009

The Superstition Mountain Museum

Just wanted to Re-post with this comment from the Museum.

Ricky Peterson has left a new comment on your post "The Superstition Mountain Museum": Very informative post.

Superstitious Mountain lies to the east of Apache Junction Arizona. You can meet the mountain lions, amphibian forms, black bears, bobcats, coyote and javelina while visiting Superstition Mountain. It is cruel play area with tortuous highs and lows in temperature. In the months of September to June climate is reasonably moderate. Dont fail to visit deserted ghost towns, chronological museums and hiking tracks. You can enjoy activities like fishing, boat rides in Verde River, Canyon and Saguaro lakes. For more details refer Superstitious Mountain
Lost Dutchman Mine Legend - Apache Junction, Arizona

EXHIBITS
GIFT & BOOK STORE
Lost Dutchman AZ Guides
Geological AZ History
Natural History AZ Legends
Native American AZ Field Guides
Military Lost Dutchman Books
Elvis Chapel Cowboy Humor Books
Apacheland Barn Children Books
About Us Elvis Chapel Shirt
Location Etched Bricks
Events Marquees
Tokens


The Superstition Mountain Museum collects, preserves and displays the artifacts, history and folklore of the Superstition Mountains, Apache Junction and the surrounding region.

Perhaps nowhere in the entire United States is there an area full of legend, history and intrigue as the rugged 160,000 acre Superstition Mountain range in Central Arizona.


Archeological evidence indicates that people were here some 9000 years ago. Later inhabitants included the Salado, Hohokam and Apache Indians, followed by Spanish explorers and Mexican Gold Miners. Early American trappers and adventurers migrated to the area and were soon followed by cattlemen and farmers. Eventually, the U.S. Cavalry was sent in to establish forts to protect this rapidly population.

As modern times approached, men and women began searching for what they believed was the richest gold mine in the world. This mine was made famous by Jacob Waltz, known as "the Dutchman", who took the secret of "his mine" to the grave in 1891.

Even today, treasure hunters scour the mountains searching for the Lost Dutchman Mine, but now they share the region with campers, hikers, horseback riders and conservationists in what has officially become the Superstition Wilderness Area.

The Superstition Mountain Lost Dutchman Museum is located 3½ miles NE of Apache Junction at 4087 N. Apache Trail.. Get a feeling of what the ol' west was really like back at the turn of the century. The museum has a variety of exhibits and is open 364 days a year.
This 20 stamp ore crusher, was donated in 1989 by Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Jones of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Twenty eight days were required for five men to disassemble and move the mill to Apache Junction, Arizona. This mill was state of the art technology for recovering gold in the 1800s.

Rare, historical, surviving equipment of this nature today, can be counted on one hand, let alone in such great condition.


Home
Exhibits : Lost Dutchman Geological Natural History Native American Military Elvis Chapel Apacheland Barn

Book Store : AZ Legends Lost Dutchman Field Guides Cowboy Humor Children's AZ History


The Lost Dutchman Goldmine Museum - Superstition Wilderness - Apache Junction Arizona

Map of Apache Junction Are



This map and all contents (C) 2008 by Richard Allen. All rights reserved.

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

A History of Tucson Arizona, Pima County

The Old Pueblo of Arizona
By A. H: CONDRON, secretary Tucson Chamber of Commerce
From Progressive Arizona 1925
THE history of Pima County, as recorded in the chronicles of los conquistadores, reads like a romance. if space would permit, a most interesting’ history could be told.. The accounts of the wanderings of Alvarez Nnez, passing through this country a quarter of a century before the Spaniards founded St. Augustine, and the expedition of Padre Marcus de Niza, made for the purpose of verifying Nuez’s stories of the Seven Cities of Cibola, furnishes material for many lengthy chapters, and the story of the march of Coronado (the following year~ 1540) from Culiacan through the country of the Pimas, down the valley of the Santa Cruz, by the present site of Tucson, and across the Pima settlements to the Gila River, has made an interesting volume by McClintock in his “History of Arizona”. The records of Spain show that the King of Spain granted a charter for the Pueblo del Tucson in 1552. A story will soon be told which will probably establish .IEuropean occupation of Tucson about the eighth century. The greatest story of all recorded is the coming of Padre Kino, who came out of Mexico and founded missions a day’s journey apart far into the interior of what is now the State of Arizona; in 1692 this worthy Jesuit established San Xavier del Bac, the most wonderful mission on the American continent. This Mission today is in excellent state of preservation, and services have been held there almost continuously since its founding. This shrine is located nine miles south of Tucson and is visited annually by tourists. Architectural students from all over the world come in order to study the distinctive architecture of this edifice.
About the middle of the eighteenth century, the Apaches arose in revolt, after which the Spanish government erected a presidio at Tucson and maintained a garrison here for the protection of their people. Tucson remained a walled village until 1847, giving our city the distinction of being the only walled city in the United States. A part of this wall still remains as evidence of this period. In 1853 Arizona became a territory of the United States by the Gadsden Purchase, and for years Pima County was protected by the United States troops garrisoned at Tucson. One of the cherished landmarks remaining is old Fort Lowell.
The development of Tucson during the territorial days was very slow. In 1910 the population was less than 13,000. However, since that time there has been an increase of 150%, and today Tucson has a population of 33,000, largely made up of the former residents of every state in the Union and from many foreign countries. There is probably no city in the Southwest which has a more cosmopolitan population, and this fact probably bespeaks the reason for its rapid development during the last ten years.
Back in the territorial days a trip to Tucson was tedious and exceedingly dangerous because of the frequent raids of roving bands of savage Indians. These trips had to be made by the old stage coach, The Butterfield Stage brought passengers and mail by relay from Kansas City to Yuma, practically passing over the present Bankhead Highway and part of the Old Spanish Trails. This mode of travel did not invite a great influx of settlers to this land of sunshine. Those who did come were mainly the hardy pioneers who were seeking new western locations in the quest of gold or other rich minerals known to exist in the mountains of Arizona. Contrast that means of transportation with the present excellent’ improved highway, “The Main Street through Arizona,” which entices over 20,000 out of the state cars, with over 100,000 tourists to enjoy Arizona’s wonderful highways and to be brought in touch with our romance, scenic and historic points of interest and to learn of the unbelievable development of the resources of our great Southwest, further to realize the great future of the City of Sunshine as the hub of the Southwest and the Gateway to the West Coast of Mexico. It is no wonder that the coming of the Southern Pacific in 1880 was heralded as one of the greatest factors of development for Tucson, as it meant the safe and easy transportation not only for the settler, but for the shipping of mineral wealth, cattle and agricultural products of Pima County-but also afforded a means of comfortable transportation for the settler who came from the east and developed the country through its last forty-five years of progress. In the last twelve years, the Southern Pacific has expanded its trade territory out of Tucson and is now working on its program of completing its system down the west coast of Mexico via Nogales, Arizona, and on to Mexico City, thus tapping the rich coastal plain of our sister Republic. The rail development has indeed been an important attribute to the development of the West - and Tucson has enjoyed its full share of this good fortune. The Old Pueblo is now actively engaged in the program of aerial mail extension and commercial and military aviation. With a vision of aviation’s future as a means of transportation, the city has been assisting our government in its aviation program by donating land which is leased to the government and equipped as one of the best aviation fields between El Paso and San Diego. The future program calls for a 1280-acre field valued at approximately a quarter of a million dollars on which an extensive construction program will be carried out to make the air port at Tucson the aviation base of the Southwest.


Arizona, a state only since 1912, with an area of 113,956 square miles and comparatively small population, but with a percentage of increase equal to the most progressive western states, has not lost sight of its educational program. The taxpayers have been generous in this respect and our school system is rated as the second in the United States. The University of Arizona, located at Tucson, has achieved national recognition and stands as one of the leading state universities. Its College of Mines and College of Agriculture have been largely responsible for the development made in these industries and are rated as among the best in the country. The campus of the University is a garden spot - the buildings are modern and fully equipped. The new library, just finished, is without a doubt the finest building in Arizona. The enrollment has shown a steady increase-this semester, about fourteen per cent-which brings the total year’s enrollment up to about twenty-eight hundred students. The Old Pueblo has kept abreast with the state educational program in its city schools, Of the fourteen grammar schools, eight were constructed during the past three years at a cost of $400,000.00 and a new High School, costing $750,000.00, was dedicated last Fall.. The Admirably located at the foot of the beautiful Rincon Mountains is the famous Evans School for Boys. There are also several parochial schools located in our city.
Tucson has excellent transportation facilities for industrial development, but, to date, the city cannot ma e many claims in comparison with some of the other western cities famed for their industries. However, such industries that have been established are of a sound nature. The further development of the natural resources adjacent to Tucson will bring about the establishment of other industries; this year: through the three years of cotton growing in Pima County, has been established a cottonseed oil mill and a large cotton compress. One of the large farm companies is making an investigation for the location of a large cold storage plant and a creamery. Progress has been made for the construction of an ore sampling works to handle the output of small prospectors; there are 17,000 mining claims recorded in Pima County, and many of these could be put into operation, bringing in good returns from the smelting of lead, zinc, silver and copper ores.
The outlook in mining, with the steady increase of metal prices, is very promising. Arizona produces about one-half of the copper in the United States. At Ajo, in the western end of Pima County, is located the New Cornelia Copper Company, which is one of the largest producers in the state. A radius of 150 miles from Tucson incloses all of the largest copper mining companies in Arizona with the exception of one. This has long since placed Tucson as the center of the mining industry of our state. The early days of Arizona were practically given over to mining, followed by cattle raising and agriculture. Some of the finest cattle breeding grounds in the United States are located in southern Arizona. Recently, several of the foresighted cattlemen have gone into the breeding of high-bred stock and are thereby doing their bit to build up the ranges. The cutting up of the ranges into small cattle ranches has caused intensified development of irrigable agricultural lands in this county with the result that today Pima County is taking its place with other counties in Arizona in a high yield per acre in cotton, alfalfa and truck garden products. The figures of the record in agricultural production in the county best shows strides in this development: In 1920 there was not a bale of cotton grown; today the crop is 10,000 bales. Previous to 1913 there was only one small dairy in existence; today the dairy industry is valued at three-quarters of a million dollars. The poultry industry, back in 1912, was a failure, as practically all of the eggs at that time supplied in Tucson were shipped in and local production received no recognition ; today poultry offers one of the greatest agricultural possibilities, with a local market valued at a half million dollars, and has, this year, already netted a very few poultrymen about a hundred and twenty thousand income. Fruit raising has been conducted in an experimental stage, with a result that grapes and peaches have proven their worth as horticultural crop.
Besides being the hub of the mining and cattle raising industries of southern Arizona, Tucson has become recognized as one of the leading resort sections of the county. This is mainly due to its unexcelled climate-coupled with its background of history, romance and scenic attractions. A recent writer of authority from the east paid tribute to the Old Pueblo in stating that it was the hub of the scenic beauty and historic lore of the Southwest. Tucson climate has been written in the Encyclopedia Britannica as comparable to that of Egypt, and this has-by the aid of properly prepared publicity and literature-attracted thousands of newcomers to our City of Sunshine and has likewise awakened our leaders of vision to interest the community in its own tourist hotel "El Conquistador" which is under construction at a cost of half a million dollars.
The community leaders have foreseen the future Tucson and the citizens have responded to their progress of civic development. In the past four years. twenty miles of paving has been laid with in the city, two million and quarter dollars have been spent under the city improvements act since 1912 four new church buildings have been erected. a new music temple has been projected.. Park and street beautification has received the attention of the city administration, and a practically new water system has been installed ( furnishing an excellent supply of pure water from deep wells and assuring an ample and good supply for the city ). The city has offered its co-operation in giving a site to the government for a three quarters of a million dollar Federal building, badly needed to adequately quarter the Post office and other Federal offices established here, and a site has also been offered the Government for its permanent and enlarged hospital.

The 21st Annual Arizona Renaissance Festival 2009

Website: www.RenFestInfo.com


Arizona Renaissance Web Site
Rain or Shine - No Pets - Free Parking
What: The 21st Annual Arizona Renaissance Festival 2009

Where: East of Apache Junction on US Highway 60, near the Superstition Mountains.

When: AZ Renaissance Festival is held on eight consecutive weekends (Saturdays, Sundays, and Presidents’ Day Monday) from February 9, 2009 through March 29, 2009. The AZ Festival runs from 10AM until 6:00PM, rain or shine.

Advance Discount Tickets: $18 for adults, $8 for kids ages 5-12, available on line www.RenFestInfo.com or at Fry’s Food and Drug Stores state wide. Children under 5 are always free. Tickets purchased at the gate are $2 more. Senior discount tickets (60 and over) are $17 at the gate.

Parking: FREE courtesy of Fry’s and Fry’s Marketplace

Information: Call 520.463.2700.

Monday, February 9, 2009

Visiting Tucson 2009 Things to Do Around Tucson

http://www.sanxaviermission.org

Just south of Tucson is a Historical Icon, the San Xavier Mission, located on the Tohono O'odham reservation. This Catholic Church is one of the oldest practicing parishes in the New World.

Visiting Tucson Arizona 1850

Visiting Tucson....The Rantings of J. Ross Browne

J. Ross Browne, a wandering journalist, visited Tucson in the late 1850s and had this to say: "Tucson was a place of resort for traders, speculators, gamblers, horse thieves, murderers and vagrant politicians. Men who were no longer permitted to live in California found the climate of Tucson congenial to their health. If the world were searched over I suppose there could not be found so degraded a set of villains as then formed the principal society of Tucson. Every man went armed to the teeth, and street fights and bloody affrays were of daily occurrence. It was literally a paradise of devils." And that was before the indictment.

Sunday, February 8, 2009

First Rodeo Parade 1925 Tucson

Headline in the Arizona Daily Star in 1925 reads:
"Cowboys are asked not to shoot up the town"

Tucson in 1925 was a frontier town: The first Tucson Rodeo was held in the middle of Prohibition. With so many visitors expected, decisions were made to clean up the town. Arizona State Prohibition Director Frank Pool led a force of federal officials to town two weeks prior to the rodeo. The Arizona Daily Star reported that 25 stills were captured and an estimated 300 gallons of moonshine destroyed. T-bone steaks sold for .27 a pound. A Stetson hat cost $8. Prizes at the 1925 Rodeo Parade included a 750-lb. block of ice, 100 lbs. of potatoes and a "Big Cactusî" ham.

Saturday, February 7, 2009

Rodeo Parade Museum

The Tucson Rodeo Parade Museum
Open to the public ....Monday - Saturday 9:30 until 3:30.



Plan to tour the Parade Museum to see one of the world's largest
collections of horse-drawn vehicles and a replication of Tucson
in the early 1900s.

2007-2008 MUSEUM DATES:
Groups may schedule a private tour almost anytime during the year.
Go to the museum page for more information.


Open to the public: December 10, 2007
Closed December 24, 2007 thru January 1, 2008*
Re-opens January 2, 2008 thru March 16, 2008.
for more information go to Parade Museum


Open .... Monday thru Saturday 9:30am to 3:30pm.
(closed Sunday)

La Fiesta De Los Vaqueros

http://www.tucsonrodeoparade.co

Thursday, February 5, 2009

Tucson Rodeo

February is one of my favorite months of the year. In Tucson we have our annual Rodeo and Parade "La Fiesta de los Vaqueros" or The Cowboy's Party. I rode in the Rodeo and the Parade during my youth. The parade uses no motorized vehicles.
It is just good organic fun for the family and community!

TUCSON RODEO & PARADE
2008 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
February 21-March 1, 2009
SCHEDULE: Events dates and times for 2009 Tucson Rodeo
PARADE: Thurs., Feb 26, 2009, 9AM
RODEO: Feb. 21-March 1, 2009
PARKING: TICKET INFO, CONTACT
How to Speak "Rodeo"
Tucson Rodeo Parade Museum: Jan. 5-April 18, 2009

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Equine Affaire North America

Equine Affaire produces the nation’s leading educational horse expositions with annual events in the Northeast, the Midwest, and the West. Click on the event location links above to explore these events in detail.

Each Equine Affaire offers opportunities to learn, shop, and network for horse enthusiasts from amateurs to seasoned professionals.



Clinics, Seminars, and Demonstrations
Four full days of clinics, seminars, and demonstrations are presented at each event by leading coaches, competitors, and trainers from throughout the United States. Learn about a wide array of equestrian sports and horse training techniques, as well as horse management, health, and business topics.

Trade Show
An extensive trade show features hundreds of the nation's leading equine-related retailers and manufacturers. Browse through acres of exhibits of equine services and products ranging from riding apparel, gifts, and grooming supplies to tack, farm equipment, and horse trailers.

Breed Pavilion & Demonstrations
Dozens of horse breed associations will display informational exhibits along with a rotating cast of selected stallions, mares, and geldings. Each breed also performs scheduled Breed Demonstrations.

Horse & Farm Exhibits
Each Equine Affaire in Ohio and Massachusetts offers Horse & Farm Exhibits. Here you can visit with stallion owners, horse breeding farms, and training facilities.

Competitive Events
Open to adult riders of all disciplines and horses of all breeds—competitive events are often included with admission to Equine Affaire. Examples are Craig Cameron’s Extreme Cowboy Race™ and Equine Affaire’s Versatile Horse & Rider Competition. Click on each location for details on competitive events.

Youth Pavilion & Celebrity Horse Showcase
The Youth Pavilion gives young horse lovers a place to learn, interact, and play. This busy area offers exhibits by horse-related youth associations, demonstrations about basic horse care and ways for young people to get involved with horses, breed segments about a range of horse breeds, and hands-on activities. Meet famous equines at the Celebrity Horse Showcase.

Pfizer Fantasia
A Musical Celebration of the Horse
Offered at each Ohio and Massachusetts exposition, the Pfizer Fantasia is Equine Affaire's signature evening entertainment. This is a truly dazzling display of equestrian performances that is not to be missed. A separate ticket is required. Be sure to order your tickets early; performances typically sell out in advance!