A commanding run in the reined work and a monster run in the cow work propelled Nick Dowers to the champion title of the Open Derby Finals at the 2023 Kimes Ranch National Reined Cow Horse Association Western Derby. Dowers rode his family’s gelding Cabanna Boy to a 216.5 in the herd work, tying him for 16th place going into the reined work, but he still thought he had a chance to win.
“I was a 223 in the reining prelims, 223 and then then a 23 and a half in the fence work as well,” Dowers said. “I knew if I could match those runs or maybe improve upon them that I would have a chance, and sure enough, we did.”
In the finals, Dowers had the top score in the reining, a 224.5 that pushed him to fifth place in the composite before a score of 226.5 in the cow work powered him to a 667.5 composite.
“I just remember knowing that if I laid down a monster run that I had a shot to win,” Dowers said. “I remember trotting some circles in the back and saying, you know, if I’m gonna go to battle, what better horse than this for this moment? Because he has just been such a reliable fence horse.”
The 2019 gelding (WR
This Cats Smart x Shining Madonna) was bred by Wagonhound Land & Livestock and is owned by Triple D Ranches of Dyer, Nevada. Dowers bought the horse through the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity sale. Dowers became an NRCHA $1 Million Rider in September 2022 on Cabanna Boy. The Western Derby win added $50,000 to horse and
rider earnings.
Clay Volmer rode Pitzer Ranch’s Metallic Casanova to the reserve championship.
Volmer and the 2018 stallion (Metallic Cat x Dark And Sultry) marked a 220 in the herd work, putting them in third place going into the reined work, where
they marked a 222.5. The judges scored them a 224.5 in the cow work to place second overall with a composite of 667. The duo earned a check for $35,000. Total purse for the Open Derby was $276,500.
In the Intermediate Open Derby, Clay Roeser rode Sliding
J Ranch’s Remember The Boon to the title and a check of $15,000 with a composite of 661.5 (H: 219/R: 221/C: 221.5).
In the Limited Open Derby, Tucker J. Clark rode DeeAnna Penna’s DT This CatsDualRey to first place and a check for $4,090 with a composite of 645 (H: 214.5/R: 219.5/C: 211).
Whose Tuff proved his mettle throughout the four events of the Open Bridle Super Spectacular on June 9. The 2015 sorrel gelding, guided by Shadd Parkinson of Scottsdale, Arizona, secured the championship title with a composite score of 880.5 worth $1200 and a Classic Equine bag.
Parkinson has been with “Shep” (Woody Be Tuff x CR Dees Boon Meow x Peptoboonsmal) since the
gelding was a 3-year-old. They’ve shown in World’s Greatest Horseman competition before, so the gelding is wellused to roping.
“He’s not very complicated,” Parkinson said. “He’s a real fun horse to show—he’s always game for just about whatever you want him to do. So my biggest strategy is to try to do the best job of staying out of his way and letting him do his job.”
The pair scored a 219 in the herd work—second in the class. They were top of the reining with a 221.5. They also did well in the cow work—a 220. “In the fence work, he was excellent, especially since the cows were kind of hit or miss yesterday, it seemed like, but he was fantastic down the fence,” Parkinson said. Steer stopping was the final event.
“I just saddled him up, turned him around and backed in there, and he acted like we’d been doing it a hundred times,” Parkinson said of their run, which scored a 220. “I was real happy with him.”
Parkinson highlighted Shep’s consistency during the event.
“This win is a fun one, being the Super Spectacular, because it’s hard to get through four events, and we carried a betterthan-220 average across the board. I am just real pleased with him.”
Shep’s attitude is his greatest strength, says Parkinson.
“He’s always willing to do anything, he’s got a lot of try, and he stops huge, whether it’s in the reining or other events,” Parkinson said. “Mostly, he’s just got a real love of life. He can just go lope a circle and you can show him, and he’s going to be the same if you lope him for an hour. It doesn’t make a difference to him. He’s just one of those really good show horses.”
“I just saddled him up, turned him around and backed in there, and he acted like we’d been doing it a hundred times,”
Two feral horses, a mare and a foal that had been stranded by rising waters on a Lake Powell beach in Navajo Canyon since early June, have been rescued by Glen Canyon National Recreation Area crews.
The horses had been receiving hay from NRA crews since June 7. The park contacted a veterinarian to assess the horses' condition. It was concluded that the two horses were trapped on the beach due to rising lake waters and they had no way to escape on their own.
It's possible that the mare had given birth on the beach and that the two had a limited food supply that eventually ran out as Lake Powell water levels continued rising. Horses are great swimmers, but for unknown reasons, the mare stayed on the beach until she was too weak to make the quarter-mile swim with a newborn, a park release said.
The horses were not in danger of being inundated by the rising lake levels. They had access to the Lake Powell water and National Park Service staff fed the horses hay while a plan was developed to safely remove them. Normally, the park does not interfere with natural wildlife or feral animal issues, but this beach is a very popular camp and recreation spot for boaters so there was a safety concern to the public.
Several factors aligned to make the rescue possible, including the proximity to a marina and the availability of a Park Service vessel that could accommodate a horse trailer. The most important contributions to the rescue efforts were made thanks to the
generosity of the Kanab Veterinary Hospital and Best Friends Animal Society’s Sanctuary in Kanab.
The team was successful in sedating the mare and getting both horses safely into a horse trailer on the boat, and they were transported to Kanab. “Mom and baby are now eating, resting and safe at Best Friends,” said Jen Reid, manager of Horse Haven at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. “We were thrilled to be part of this incredible rescue and look forward to helping these horses find a great home when they’re ready.”
During the Scottsdale qualifier, it took a composite score of a 442.5 to earn a qualified spot in the upcoming Run For A Million cow horse competition. Randy Paul earned his second trip to Las Vegas aboard Linda Katz’s CD Highlights. Paul and CD Highlights topped the qualifier with a 445.5.
Following the rein work on Monday, June 5, Paul and CD Highlights sat just inside the top 20 with a 219.5. Paul knew he would have to have a solid cow work to get a spot in the top 5. Marking a massive 226 on the cow, Paul secured the number one spot and earned a check for $7,500.
The four additional riders who secured their spot at the Las Vegas qualifier are Snaffle Bit Futurity® Champion and World’s Greatest Horseman Champion, Boyd Rice of Weatherford, Texas, NRCHA Million Dollar rider and multiple World’s Greatest Horseman champion, Ron Ralls from Gainesville, Texas, NRCHA Million Dollar Rider and The American Performance Horseman champion, Sarah Dawson from Perrin, Texas, and Shawn Hays.
The NRCHA will take five riders from the final qualifier at the MARS Equestrian™ Hackamore Classic presented by Oswood Stallion Station in Tulsa, Okla., July 24-30.
Tanya Tucker made a triumphant — and historic — entrance onto Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry stage, as she was seated astride a black Friesian Stallion named Lauwe the Magnificent to sing her opening song during the broadcast.
According to Grand Ole Opry historians, it is believed to be the first time a horse has been ridden onstage during a Grand Ole Opry broadcast in the show’s 97-year history.
On horseback, the Country Music Hall of Fame inductee-elect opened her set with “Kindness,” from her just-released album, Sweet Western Sound. The remainder of her set included another duo of selections from the project — “The List” and “When the Rodeo Is Over” — and such classics as “Delta Dawn,” “Texas (When I Die)” and “Strong Enough to Bend,” the latter of which saw her joined by illustrious bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent and Pam Tillis, who was inducted as an Opry member in 2000.
Tucker rode the same stallion that she previously guided through the streets of Nashville in early April, just hours after the revelation that she had been named as a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the announcement of her two headlining shows at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium.
The Opry event happened courtesy of a team that worked to make the moment possible, including Tucker’s management team, Lauwe the Magnificent’s owner Annika Bruggeworth (of Kentucky’s Siren Song Stables), and the Grand Ole Opry’s executive producer Dan Rogers.
Tucker’s horseback entrance is also on-brand for the singersongwriter, who has long been known for her passion for horses. The cover of her new album, Sweet Western Sound, features a horse, while the cover of her previous Grammy-winning project, While I’m Livin’, also features Tucker on horseback.
In early April, Tucker was bestowed with one of country music’s highest honors, as she was named as a 2023 inductee into the Country Music Hall of Fame, alongside Patty Loveless and songwriter Bob McDill. A formal induction ceremony will take place this fall.
Americans love their sports. You can turn on the TV pretty much any time of the day or night and find some professional sporting event that appeals to one segment of the population or another.
Football, basketball, and baseball have found consistent, mainstream success on major broadcast networks, served up via satellite, cable or a variety of streaming services in millions of homes and on millions of phones. In addition to our fondness for sports, turns out we’re pretty fond of variety as well and rodeo provides that variety. Along with the unpredictable, rough and tumble nature of it, rodeo is the perfect spectator sport.
The Cowboy Channel and RFD-TV have brought the heartpounding, pulse-racing, coast-to-coast action from rodeo arenas to rodeo fans for the last four years. It’s helped solidify our loyal fan base, further ingraining the generational love for rodeo in fans who’ve cut their teeth on the sport. While our ProRodeo fans are fed a steady diet of rodeo excitement and entertainment, it is a spectacle much of the nation is not privy to. At ProRodeo, we have an eye toward growth, to introduce our slice of Americana to the broader population. ProRodeo will get an assist with that when the rest of the world meets the western world, during a special broadcast, “CBS Sports Spectacular: 100 Rodeos in 100 Days”. The one-hour special will air at 1 p.m. (ET) on Sunday, July 2.
“This 100 Rodeos In 100 Days is intended to be a “coming back” party for the PRCA and all of its summer rodeos, and the NFR,” said Patrick Gottsch, president, and founder of Rural Media Group. “There will be prayer, the national anthem and community pride on display for the world to see. This is our chance to start connecting with a national audience like other sports and create new fans.”
The special will focus on the 100 PRCA rodeos in 100 days, including the Reno Rodeo, which concludes June 24 and will showcase the foundational values of the PRCA to a national audience. Some of the PRCA’s most iconic rodeos will be featured, along with today’s biggest ProRodeo stars like seven-time world champion Stetson Wright. The PRCA’s legendary animal athletes and their impact on ProRodeo will also be highlighted in the hourlong special.
“Rodeo fans are as passionate and loyal as they come, as far as their enthusiasm and appreciation for the sport,” PRCA CEO Tom Glause said. “This CBS Sports Spectacular is a wonderful opportunity to share ProRodeo with a larger section of our country. It’s a chance to connect with people who likely have more in common with those of us who live the rodeo lifestyle, than they may realize.”
More than just an event, rodeo is truly a way of life. For those raised on rodeo, there is a deep affection for it, passed down from generation to generation. The pride in country, faith and family surely resonates with Americans who have yet to experience the rich history and tradition of this iconic, centuries-old sport. This television special provides a window into the world of ProRodeo athletes who spend months traversing our great country in pursuit of their gold buckle dreams, which they hope will ultimately lead them to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas each December.
Cole Reiner knows what it takes to reach the sport of rodeos’ summit. The Buffalo, Wyo., bareback rider, has qualified for three straight Wrangler National Finals Rodeos. After a strong weekend of competition, he finds himself right back in the Top 15 of the PRCA | RAM World Standings.
Reiner was the biggest mover over the past week, jumping up 10 spots in the standings from 18th to eighth. His big weekend was spurred by second-place finishes at the Elizabeth (Colo.) Stampede Rodeo and the Darby (Mont.) Extreme Barebacks.
His 91-point ride on Calgary Stampede’s Yipee Kibitz in the finals of the Darby Extreme Bareback earned him $9,116. In total, he earned $11,891 for those three rides.
“It’s been more important than ever for me to stay patient this season,” said Reiner, 24. “I had a good winter, but it was more of a slow spring for me. I made enough in the winter to where I could wait out the good draws and go to where I know I can win. It all came together last week for me.”
One of his major goals during the 2023 season is to do more with less. That includes riding at less rodeos throughout the year and finding a way to capitalize when he draws well.
“My goal this year is to do more at less rodeos, that’s kind of always the goal I think,” Reiner said. “I’m going to go to over 40 rodeos to make sure my Xtreme money counts, but if I can hover around that 50-55 rodeo count that would be perfect in my book. It allows me to have more time at home and more time to recover.”
He believes it will help him be fresher late in the season when it counts.
“I’m looking to be really fresh in the middle of July this year and be at the top of my game when it really counts. There’s a lot of money to be won around then,” he said. “If I can do that, I think I’ll be exactly where I want to be when September rolls around.”
National exposure on a major television network has the potential to create the kind of excitement and interest needed to bring fresh faces to rodeo, creating an entirely new generation of people who appreciate what rodeo and the western way of life have to offer. With your help, we’ll give it an honest try.
Mark your calendars, tell your neighbors, set your DVRs for Sunday, July 2 at 1 p.m. (ET) for the “CBS Sports Spectacular – 100 Rodeos in 100 Days”.
junior Haylee King kept her family’s cutting-horse legacy alive with a clean sweep at the Texas High School Rodeo Association State Finals, which wrapped up a 10-day run today in Abilene.
The resident of nearby Cisco, Texas, and daughter of Josh and Amy King worked with a homefield advantage, winning the first, second and short rounds of the girl’s cutting. For her high scores, Haylee won five trophy buckles—three for the round wins, a state championship buckle and the Brody Beaver Memorial Shootout buckle. Awarded to the rider with the highest composite score of the week, the buckle commemorates cowboy Brody Beaver, who was a THSRA State Finals and 2009 National High School Rodeo Association cutting champion before his passing.
Haylee partnered with special bay-roan mare Metabra, who was graciously offered by owners Jackie and Stella Swanson. The Swansons are customers of Haylee’s trainer father. Haylee was familiar on the back of 6-year-old Metabra after spending plenty of time as her dad’s helper getting Metabra ready for him.
“I felt so flattered when the Swansons offered her to me,” Haylee says. “Not only did they think I was good enough for their mare, but they trusted us enough to be in a situation like that together. She is not the smoothest mare to warm up, but whenever you are showing her, it feels like you are floating. I had never made it to the short round at state before, so I didn’t really have anything to live up to. I knew I just had to go and do our best, and we did do our best.”
Haylee says a few things
Haylee King and Metabra dominated the girl’s cutting at the 2023 THSRA Finals, which concluded today in Abilene.
stand out to her through the three performances. “I actually had a miss and my run tapered off a little, and I was stressed about that, but Metabra recovered perfectly,” Haylee recalls. “Had it been another horse, it probably would have messed up the whole run. But she recovered it. The second cow in my second go was probably the most fun I’ve ever had in all my years showing horses. She was tuned in; dialed in. I don’t think anything could have messed her up; she just wanted to be there and do good.”
During the short round, with a great run started, Haylee said the mare came in clutch again when she cut the wrong cow. “On my last cow, my dad pointed out which one he wanted me to cut,” Haylee says. “I got so nervous that I didn’t cut that one, and instead cut a really wild one. Again, if it were any other horse, it probably wouldn’t have worked. But Metabra stuck with it, held that cow and had an amazing run.”
Growing up in the cutting pen, Haylee can spot the difference in a good horse and a great horse, and says Metabra is the latter. “You can tell how much she loves her job,” Haylee says. “Whenever she comes out and she knows she’s done well, she struts. She gets full of herself, but not in a bad way.”
Metabra’s pedigree is arguably near cutting-horse perfection. She is by all-time leading cutting-horse sire Metallic Cat, with $52 million to his progeny credit. Metabra’s mother is well-respected producer Sweet Abra, who was purchased from the Fults Ranch by Teton Ridge in 2021. Metabra’s lifetime earnings of over $125,000 add to Sweet Abra’s over $2 million produce record.
Just as Metabra’s maternal line is strong, so too is Haylee’s maternal side, with her great grandfather being one of the most well-respected men to ever set foot in a cutting pen—the late Buster Welch. “My great grandfather is Buster Welch,” Haylee says. “That is a blessing, having ties to such an influential person in the cutting industry. When I was 13, he gifted me a 3-year-old mare to show at the National Cutting Horse Association Futurity. She was an amazing mare, although we didn’t quite get it put together before the futurity. He gave me the opportunity to ride a young horse, and that developed my riding to a whole new level.”
continued on page 36
The ranch has been owned and operated for over 25 years by Kyle and Amy Best and their family who represent six generations of ranching experience and history. “Raising Diamonds In the Rocks” is their motto. The family believes in raising horses as their forefathers did, using them primarily for ranch work over the terrain of Arizona. KT Cattle Inc. also understands that a solid foundation is essential for the success of the horses they sell. Starting at birth, their mares help train the foals to navigate the mountainous trails making the horses they raise exceptionally nimble and sure-footed.
“KT Cattle works to produce quality horses the traditional way,” said Karen McCuistion, AQHA senior director of member programs. ”They are a close family that believes in preserving the values of ranching, and we appreciate their contributions to AQHA ranching by raising top-quality working ranch horses.” KT Cattle Inc. is an active supporter of AQHA programs, including the AQHA Ranching Heritage Young Horse Development Program.
Ranching Heritage Breeders are working cattle ranches that produce five or more registered American Quarter Horses each year for ranch work. Photo credit: KT Cattle Inc.
slated to be hosted during the 2024 AQHA Convention March 1518 at the South Point Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.
The 2022 AQHA Ranching Heritage Breeder of the Year award will be formally presented during the AQHA Breeder Banquet,
from page 32 KING
The man who gets Haylee’s highest praise, though, is her dad. “I don’t think I could do it without him,” Haylee says. “Actually, that’s a lie, I know I couldn’t do it without him. It’s been a big blessing to be a part of a Western family who competes in cutting.
My grandfather Ken Welch manages Silverbrook Ranch (owned formerly by King Ranch descendant Helen Groves), so not only do I get the cutting aspect of it, I get the true cowboy lifestyle.” Haylee remembers never being persuaded to hang out at the barn with her dad.
“I was homeschooled when I was younger, and I would go work with my dad every morning,” Haylee remembers.
“My mom would have to call me back home, reminding me that my studies were just as important.” While the teen acknowledges the challenges of being competitive, she’s never one to complain. “For some people, it’s a hobby; for us, it’s a lifestyle,” Haylee says.
“When I was little, I would envy some people, because they would get to show up and show, while we would be there with 15 horses
This award is open only to AQHA Ranching Heritage Breeders who exemplify the ranching lifestyle. Ranching Heritage Breeders are working cattle ranches that produce five or more registered American Quarter Horses each year for ranch work. Nominees for the award are chosen by their peers, with final voting done by the AQHA Ranching Committee.
and have to get horses ready for every set. But the older I got, the more I realized how fun it is. There is a lot of work that goes into it. In the winter, it’s freezing, and in the summer, it gets hot so early. So we’ll be up at 4:30 a.m. to work the horses before it gets too hot. There are a lot of hours that go into riding horses.”
Stress, long hours and hard work don’t overshadow one important aspect for the King family, though. “It sounds
so cliché, but I cannot name one time that I have gone into the show pen that my dad has not said to me, ‘Just have fun,’” Haylee says. “It can be stressful getting ready to show, but when it’s about 30 seconds before a run, he’s always right there to say, ‘Just go in there and have fun.’”
Haylee and Metabra will spend the next month getting ready for the National High School Finals Rodeo, which will run July 16-22 in Gillette, Wyoming. She says she’ll try to keep Metabra’s schedule as normal as possible. She’ll also keep her dad’s words of advice in mind. “No matter what the competition is like or how a run ends, I’m going to have fun,” Haylee says. “I know I’m lucky to get to compete.”
Yellowstone still has at least six more episodes before it ends, but series creator Taylor Sheridan is already working on the sequel series. The untitled drama, which will potentially star Matthew McConaughey, is in the early stages of development, but Sheridan teased a few details in a recent interview with THR.
The new Paramount+ drama will likely have Yellowstone in the title. Sheridan hints that the new show, which was expected to include several existing characters, might lean heavily on a new cast and location.
“My idea of a spinoff is the same as my idea of a prequel — read into that what you will. There are lots of places where a way of life that existed for 150 years is slamming against a new way of life, but the challenges are completely different. There are a lot of places you can tell this story.”
As for McConaughey, he is not locked in place for the “next chapter” of the Yellowstone saga yet. Sheridan said the following: “He seems like a natural fit. We had a few conversations over the years, and spitballed a few ideas. Then he started watching Yellowstone and responded to it. He was like, ‘I want to do that.’ And by ‘that’ he meant diving into a raw world clashing up against the modern world. And then I said, ‘Buddy, that we can do.’”
As for Yellowstone, the series was set to return on Paramount Network in November, but that could be delayed due to the ongoing writers strike.
Steve Fechser, the grandson of Benny Binion, who was involved in the rodeo business in many different aspects for decades, passed away May 15 in Las Vegas. He was 68.
Fechser worked at the Horseshoe for years in Las Vegas, and then he went to work for ProRodeo Hall of Fame stock contractor Mike Cervi for years and he also worked with Michael Gaughan at the Gold Coast and South Point Hotel in Las Vegas.
“Steve was family to us,” Binion Cervi said. “He was the most loyal friend anybody could have. If you and he connected he was loyal to the core. He was a character out of a movie.”
Binion said it wasn’t hard to find Fechser at events because of his distinct voice.
“He had this froggy voice that you could pick out of a crowd,” Cervi said. “He had the most unique voice you ever heard. Cowboys loved him because he was so generous and loyal to people. Whenever you went with Steve, he took care of anybody and everybody. He wasn’t above or below anybody.”
Bobby Fechser, Steve’s younger brother, had this to say about Steve.
“He was a cowboy his whole life,” Bobby said. “We used to spend our summers in Montana on the ranch from the time Steve was 5 years old until he was in his 30s. He broke horses and he could rope.”
There was one photo that turned up showing Steve, who was working for the Gold Coast at the time, doing a great job running the chutes and turning bulls back for Mike Cervi at RodeoHouston in 1998.
Steve also was part of getting the NFR go-round buckle ceremony moved to the Gold Coast. He also helped find entertainers like singer Robert Earl Keen for the go-round events.
A memorial service was held at 10 a.m. (PT), June 20 at St. Thomas More Catholic Community, 130 N. Pecos Rd., Henderson, Nev. Visitation.
Donations can be made in Steve’s name to the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund.
A long-time legend of the rodeo arena, Calgary Stampede bucking horse John Wayne has passed away at the remarkable age of 32. His longevity is testament to the care he received throughout his life, as well as his own incredible strength and spirit.
John Wayne joined the Stampede herd in 1995, thanks to a smart purchase
at a local bucking horse sale. The big buckskin gelding went on to become a rock-steady performer for just shy of two decades.
"He was a money horse. Rain, shine, indoors, outdoors - wherever he was, he was a winner. It doesn't get more Calgary Stampede than John Wayne," said Tyler Kraft, Manager of the Calgary Stampede Ranch and Stock Contracting operations.
With 19 Calgary Stampede appearances, 11 invitations
to the National Finals Rodeo and 17 Canadian Finals Rodeo appearances, more than $300,000 was won on the powerful horse throughout his career.
John Wayne had the final out of his career in the spotlight of the National Finals Rodeo in 2013. He spent the
last few years of his long and remarkable life showing the yearlings and two-year-olds of the Stampede's Born to Buck™ program the ways of the world, surrounded by the blue skies and wide-open grasslands of the 23,000-acre Stampede Ranch.
Q - You competed on Teton Ridge’s YAKETYYAKDONTALKBAK at the NRCHA Cow Horse Derby in Scottsdale. How does it feel to compete at a higher level in Cow Horse on such a nice horse?
A - I had a really big sense of accomplishment. You know, my first Cow Horse show ever was a year ago at the same show. Basically, last year in the Cow Horse with him, we did not make it past the first go-around. We had some trouble and I realized how much I still have to learn. So that’s why I bought that horse. I bought him as a four-yearold to kind of get some experience, and you know, there was a lot of work to do on the horse and on myself. So, we put our heads down and I never really went to any other horse shows with him until this year. Because I knew that until I felt good at home and felt that I made some big improvements on myself and on him, that there was no point of going and showing. This year definitely felt a lot better, but still there was that question, “Am I going to be able to feel what I’m doing at home in the show pen, since I haven’t shown since a year ago?” So, to be able to go there and make the Open Finals with such great guys was really great! I know how hard it could be to even make it to the finals, it was definitely a great feeling. I mean there’s a lot of work and I have a lot of admiration for those guys. It’s not an easy thing to do, to be good at three different events. It’s definitely hard on the horse and the rider.
Q - You have just returned from the NRHA Derby in Oklahoma City showing Starjac Vintage in the finals, also owned by Teton Ridge. Two big shows, two different disciplines what motivates you to take on that challenge?
A - I just want to always better myself as a Horseman, and to me over the last twenty plus years in the Reining, I have always studied my videos and try to perfect myself and try to stay on top of the Reining. I keep modernizing my type of Reining to what the judges want to see and maybe even present something that the judges haven’t seen yet. But it gets kind of tiring to do it over and over and over. So, I wanted to challenge myself with something new. I wanted to see if bringing in a different discipline would be something that motivated me and that maybe even helped my Reining. And it sure did! It opened my mind to different things. Cow Horse gave me a whole new perspective of coming to work in the morning and trying new things and to see if it works or not. This has basically brought back some of the feelings that I had twentyfive years ago in the Reining. I think it freshened up my Reining also because it broadened my horizon a little bit more about how a horse can think on his own a little bit more and not try to control it
all as much. For me, it was definitely a challenge to myself, to spur me into doing more and to stay sharp. And it definitely did that. You know, I’m walking into the show pen in the Cow Horse event and having those jitters that I used to have 25 years ago walking into a Reining pen. Not knowing what that cow was going to be like and all those uncertainties. You know it brings your adrenaline up, and I love that feeling! So, it definitely helped that way.
Q - The upcoming event, Taylor Sheridan’s The Run for a Million, promises intense competition, a sold-out arena, television filming, and the glamorous setting of Las Vegas. How do you maintain focus on such a grand stage?
A - Well, I’m kind of fortunate to where the bigger the event, the easier it is for me to focus. Meaning that I’m not the type of person that has to force myself into focusing. I am almost the other way, where I’ve got to try to relax a little bit more. Sometimes I’m almost over thinking it, so for me I always look forward to either the Reining Futurity finals or the Run for the Million. For me, in the Cow Horse finals, it was a big deal because it was the first time that I had ever made it. Whenever I am on a bigger stage, it seems like I tend to perform a little bit better and it’s a good feeling for me. So, I’m looking forward to it. You know, I’ve been second twice a that event, and it’s one that definitely I would love to have off my bucket list before the time comes that I retire from showing. I would love to say that I am, “The Run for A Million Champion”. I got close, with only a half a point behind two times. I know that I’ve got what it takes to be there. It’s just putting it together for that run, on that night. Last year I was at 234 and ended up second, you know? I mean, to mark a 234 and not win, it’s unheard of! But that’s what this stage brings, it brings the best of the best. I am looking forward to it for sure!
Q - Growing up on your family’s dairy farm in Italy, where cattle work has been a tradition in your mother’s family for five generations, did those experiences provide you with valuable insights for competing in cow horse events?
A - Well, yes and no. I have been around cows in the first part of my life for a long-time, so it does help in the fact that it’s not something completely new. So, pressure points, how to move cows around, and where to be at all times definitely helps. But as far as the showing experience, which is what I’m lacking right now, that does not come with just being around cows, you’ve got to put yourself in that show pen. That’s where it’s always going to be a little bit of a challenge for me. The guys that show at the top level in the Cow Horse where they are in the arena and going down the fence pretty much day in and day out, or every other day. For me,
when I only have a horse or two and I can only go to a couple of shows a year, it’s definitely going to be a little bit of a challenge and I realize that. So, it’s not like I expect to be right up there with those guys all the time. But I think that there’s a lot to learn. So yes and no. It definitely helped as far as the training part of it, but as far as showing, it’s definitely something that I still have to learn about.
Q - You recently competed in The American Performance Horse in Arlington Texas in a stadium setting, set-up for a serious television production. What is one key you can share for those aspiring to compete on the big stage?
A -I think, it’s a mental game, no matter what kind of discipline you do, it’s always about the mental. Mental for the horse, mental for the rider. So, you have to be prepared mentally. For me that’s been my strength throughout my career, I never show up at an event where I feel unprepared. So, I’m confident going into the show pen.
Even if I know there’s going to be some variables, I am confident that I know a hundred percent that I gave it all my best.
I think that a lot of people maybe work hard the last couple of weeks before the show, but they realize in the back of their mind that maybe six months ago when the time really mattered and there was the time to put in, maybe they slacked off a little bit. So, for me, I’m looking at the week after the Futurity. That’s when I’m putting my head down and I’m going to work on my coming next year Futurity horses. Because I know that pretty quick in August, I’m going to be on the road a lot. A lot of guys stress out leading up to a Pre-Futurity in September. They are thinking, “Oh my gosh, we’re on the road a lot!” But myself, I’m just laughing, because I worked seven days a week for the last six months! And even if I lose a little bit of time now, it’s not that big of a deal. So, for me, being prepared and putting in the hard work when people are not watching, not just on the big stage, that’s when it really matters. And preparation is everything! If you feel prepared, that gives you confidence, and then on the big stage, it doesn’t really matter anymore.
Rio, an 8-year-old American Quarter Horse gelding, is the beloved horse of Alana Alpern, DVM, and her family who was bred, born, and raised on the family farm in Texas. Rio recently fell ill and Alpern knew exactly where to take him, her alma mater, the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine.
According to a university release,Rio presented to the Large Animal Clinic at UC Davis having been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, an irregular heart rhythm, and a common equine cardiac problem. Over 15 years ago, when Alpern was a student at UC Davis, the school was among the few places in the nation performing transvenous electrical cardioversion (TVEC), a procedure that shocks the heart back into a regular rhythm. Since Alpern graduated in 2007, the school has performed only a number of TVEC procedures because of the lack of essential equipment over the past decade.
“It’s been a long time since we’ve performed a TVEC at UC Davis,” said Jessica Morgan, DVM, PhD, of the equine field service, in the release. “But I gained a lot of experience with them in my time as a clinician at the University of Pennsylvania, so we have the right team and equipment to offer that option again.”1
Morgan consulted with Fiona Wensley, BVM&S, MRCVS, DACVIM, in the equine medicine service treating Rio, the cardiology service, and the anesthesia service and Alpern to
discuss the possibility of a TVEC being an option for Rio. “Rio had previously been given the drug quinidine, a medication commonly used for cardioversion, but it failed to correct his arrhythmia,” said Morgan. “Dr Alpern was looking for an opportunity to try something else, and we agreed that a TVEC was the answer.”
A cutaneous method—placing electrode paddles on the chest— is the preferred method of performing an electrical cardioversion on dogs and humans, however a horse’s large muscle mass does not allow the shock wave to reach the heart without causing deadly complications. Thus, veterinarians must approach the horse’s heart with electrodes on the tips of catheters placed across the heart through the horse’s veins.
Two catheters were placed in Rio’s right jugular vein with one advanced into the left pulmonary artery and the other into the right atrium. Their positions were placed with the assistance of echocardiography and confirmed with X-rays of his chest. Then, Rio was anesthetized, and a shock wave produced by a life pack was sent to the electrodes to stun the atrium, enabling it to restart, according to the release.1
The procedure was successful, and Rio’s heart was shocked back into a regular (sinus) rhythm, confirmed by a post-procedure electrocardiogram. A follow-up echocardiogram several days after showed improvement of previous findings.
“From a cardiovascular standpoint, Rio has a good prognosis for return to athletic function, as long as he is able to maintain sinus rhythm,” shared Morgan. “He didn’t have any major complications with the procedure, and he hasn’t gone back into atrial fibrillation.”1
To reduce the chance of recurrence, Rio was placed on medication and Alpern has a cell phone-based electrocardiogram unit to monitor him at home. After 2 months, Alpern says that Rio is doing well and has returned to giving short rides to her children.
How the veterinary team approached the horse with this heart condition and an update on his
NEW Affected County - Ventura County, California
Since the last situation report (6/15/2023), there have been 8 new VSV-affected equine premises identified (3 confirmed positive, 5 suspect) in California including a new infected county, Ventura County. There are six counties currently affected in California (Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Ventura Counties) and one county currently affected in Texas (Maverick County). All confirmed cases have been vesicular stomatitis New Jersey virus (VSNJV) serotype. Updates are as follows:
California: Los Angeles County (New Infected County) – 1 confirmed positive equine premises. Riverside County – 1 new confirmed positive and 3 new suspect equine premises. San Diego County – 1 new confirmed positive premises and 2 new suspect equine premises. Ventura County (New Infected County) – 1 confirmed positive equine premises
Since the last situation report (6/15/2023), the following previously confirmed positive or suspect premises have been released from quarantine: 4 equine premises in Riverside County, 2 equine premises in San Bernardino County, and 1 equine premises in San Diego County.
Texas: No new confirmed positive or suspect premises have been identified.
Since the start of the outbreak, 104 VSV-affected premises have been identified (36 confirmed positive, 68 suspect) in 2 states, California and Texas. One hundred one (101) of these premises have had only equine species clinically affected, two (2) premises have had clinically affected cattle (San Diego County, California), and one (1) premises has had clinically affected rhinoceros (San Diego County, California).
California has identified 103 affected premises (35 confirmed positive, 68 suspect) in 6 counties (Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Ventura Counties). Texas has identified 1 affected premises (1 confirmed positive) in 1 county (Maverick County, Texas). Of the 104 total VSV-affected premises, 35 premises have completed the quarantine period with no new clinical cases and have been released from quarantine. Sixty-nine (69) premises remain quarantined.
PUEBLO, Colo. – NASCAR fans and car racing aficionados of all types are quickly turning their heads to the sport of bull riding as Richard Childress and Austin Dillon continue to show love to the world’s most dangerous sport through their involvement with the Carolina Cowboys.
From bringing a bull down to the Winston-Salem City Hall and inviting a personal DJ into the team’s locker room to Dillon’s No. 3 NASCAR hotrod donning the blue and black checkered flags and taking the boys gokart racing, it’s safe to say that Dillon and the Richard Childress Racing collective are all in for PBR Teams.
“I was in NASCAR when I think NASCAR was at about the level that PBR is getting going now,” Childress offered during Episode 4 of the exclu-
sive PBR Teams series
“The Ride” on Amazon Prime.
“When Sean (Gleason) started talking to me about getting involved with one of the franchises, I went to my grandson and I said, ‘Austin, I’m pretty busy, you’re busy, but will you jump in here and help?’ So, I named him the general manager.”
Similar to the energy he brings to his motor-forward day job, fans have a chance to witness the passion Dillon brings to the Cowboys on a weekly basis throughout the riveting new series’ fourth installment: Sweet Home Carolina.
For as much respect Dillon has for his grandfather and personnel throughout the team’s
ownership and front office group, he doesn’t necessarily want to be viewed as the captain steering the ship, but rather someone who always wants to level with his guys; regularly interacting with the squad and cheering them on.
“I think it’s amazing that we have a PBR franchise here in North Carolina, and being from Winston-Salem, it’s so special to bring it to the Joel (Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum),” Dillon said.
“I’m definitely more nervous as a general manager than I am as a race car driver. I have a lot more control in that situation. (Here), I just have to sit back and watch and hope it all plays out.”
With a NASCAR Camping World Trucking Series championship, NASCAR Nationwide championship and a 2018 win at Daytona International Speedway under his belt, Dillon understands what it takes to win.
There is a crisis silently brewing in the equine veterinary world.
The combination of older veterinarians leaving the field, current equine veterinarians leaving for better pay and work/life balance, and fewer numbers of veterinary students choosing equine as their elective field of specialty have seriously affected the availability of primary and emergency care for horses throughout the United States and beyond. And, if nothing is done now this could be greatly problematic for horse owners who need to seek medical care for their horses in the coming years.
Michael Erskine (B.S. '84, DVM '88), Jean Ellen Shehan Professor and director of the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center (EMC) in Leesburg, Virginia, is part of a national commission looking into the problem. The EMC is one of three animal health care facilities of the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine.
“Equine veterinarians typically provide emergency care for their client’s horses, but emergency coverage can be especially challenging, taking a huge toll on equine practitioners who are often expected to be available 24/7,” said Erskine. “Equine referral hospitals, unlike small animal emergency clinics, are few and far between with horse owners often having to travel substantial distances to seek comprehensive emergency care.”
Research by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) discovered that only a small percentage of veterinary students choose to pursue a career in equine veterinary medicine. Of those 1.3% go straight into private practice after graduation with 4.5% pursuing an equine internship to further their training.
What is most alarming is that within five years, due to the demands of the profession, 50% of these equine-focused veterinarians will move to small animal practice or decide to leave their aspirations for a career as a veterinarian behind altogether. One major area of concern for new college graduates is compensation. Pursuing a veterinary degree is an expensive endeavor, with students typically graduating with double-digit sixfigure debt.
Graduates who chose to focus on small animals can expect to step into a six-figure salary soon after graduation. In comparison, equine-focused graduates may choose to go into private practice or further their education by seeking an internship, possibly followed by a residency, but can expect to earn much less than their small animal counterparts during the first several years of their careers. “I want to work with horses but I simply can’t afford it,” said fourthyear veterinary student Olivia Reiff (DVM Candidate '23).
The diminishing availability of equine practitioners is not restricted just to the US. In the United Kingdom (UK), 9% of
veterinary students initially choose to focus on equine, and only 2% of them actually graduate and pursue their chosen careers. A shocking 80% of all veterinary graduates in the UK will quit the profession within five years. “It is getting progressively more difficult to find and hire equine veterinary specialists,” said Rachel Atherton (M.S. '07), partner at Lingfield Equine Veterinarians, in Lingfield, West Sussex, UK.
Work/life balance is another factor impacting the retention of equine veterinarians. The expectation of 24-hour access to emergency care on the farm, 365 days per year, is no longer sustainable for many practices. Small animal practice on the other hand is a very different story with after-hours and emergency care typically provided by specialist emergency clinics.
The Virginia Agricultural Commodity Board Annual Report 2021/22 reported that the equine industry in the Commonwealth is valued at $2 billion representing 183,643 horses. Also from the 2018 economic impact study conducted by the American Horse Council: the industry generates more than 38,874 jobs in Virginia. In total 30.5% of households - or 1 million – contain horse enthusiasts.
On July 7, 2022, the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), headquartered in Lexington, Kentucky, announced the formation of the Commission on Equine Veterinary Sustainability – one of the association’s largest-ever initiatives, which has set out to address the equine veterinary crisis.
The commission, led by AAEP-member volunteers, is focusing on strategic areas of concern which need to be addressed to encourage and support equine-focused veterinarians to continue in or enter into the field of equine veterinary medicine. Erskine has been directly involved by acting as co-chair on a subcommittee of AAEP’s Commission on Equine Veterinary Sustainability, alongside Leann Kuebelbeck, surgeon and practice owner of Brandon Equine Medical Center in Brandon, Florida.
The 13-member strong subcommittee’s mission is to explore the unique challenges of providing emergency services and to consider service models to address the work-life balance, professional fulfillment, and recruitment and retention of equine veterinarians, while also considering how best to educate clients about these challenges.
While Erskine and his fellow committee members explore the issue on a national, big-picture level, improving emergency and critical care is very much a practical daily concern for Erskine at EMC. Ensuring the future of emergency and critical care services at the EMC has required some out-of-the-box thinking and has been a top priority for Erskine. Careful consideration has been given to EMC clinicians and clinical support staff and their worklife balance, currently available and future outpatient and elective services, and the needs of the equine community with respect to emergency care.
Currently, EMC clinicians cover outpatient, elective, and emergency services. Erskine’s commitment to securing the future availability of top-notch emergency and critical care services at the EMC has prompted him to commit to a new, dynamic emergency service model: A dedicated team of board-certified emergency and critical care specialists is being formed and will be fully supported by the clinicians already on staff at the EMC who are boardcertified specialists in surgery and internal medicine.
Team 10 brought home the win at this year’s annual AjPHA Youth Team Tournament, which took place on June 23 on the precipice of the 2023 APHA World Show.
The new-and-improved tournament attracted 105 Youth participants from across the country. Participants were
divided into 18 teams who faced off in events such as the Knowledge Relay and Video Challenge.
This year’s Youth Team Tournament was designed to encourage all Paint-loving Youth to participate, centering around a variety of fun, nohorse-required activities. “We wanted to provide a way for all Youth—whether they are AjPHA Youth members or not,
have a horse or not, or are showing at the World Show—to have the opportunity to come to this event, enjoy themselves and meet other Youth from across the country,” said APHA President-Elect Kelly Chapman, The Top Six point-earning teams faced off in a thrilling, surprise relay-race finale, in which members from each team sped across the arena on donkeys. After much bucking,
braying and runaway-rides, Team 10 cinched their victory.
Congratulations to the 2023 Youth Team Tournament winners: Youth Team Tournament Team 10, Champion Team Overall –Team 10. Reagan Strange, Izzy Hostetler, Lainey Knight, Brianna Massie, Peytyn Goodin, and Brady Hattan.
from page 58
“This emerging emergency and critical care team model will be staffed by clinicians who enjoy the challenges of emergency medicine and will dramatically reduce on-call hours currently required of our internal medicine and surgery clinicians. Moreover, this model will allow our highly trained professionals the opportunity to focus on their specialty areas,” said Erskine. “Our goal is to implement this model without increasing costs to our clients”.
A generous anonymous donor – who understands the challenges faced by an equine emergency referral hospital –has committed $1.5M in funding to support the majority of costs associated with the start-up of the new service for the initial three years. It is estimated that by year four, hospital operations will fully support the service.
If this dynamic emergency service model proves successful, it may be implemented by other equine referral hospitals, thereby encouraging equine veterinarians to continue the work they love in their chosen field of expertise. Meanwhile, Erskine will continue to help lead the exploration of how to solve the problems at a national level.
“The sub-committee is already identifying various emergency coverage models that have emerged and will be providing information to AAEP members about these models and how they
The National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) announces the next NCHA Vice President will be Barnwell Ramsey from Huntersville, North Carolina. Ramsey will take on his new position as Vice President starting June 25, 2023.
The National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) announces the next NCHA Vice President will be Barnwell Ramsey from Huntersville, North Carolina. Ramsey will take on his new position as Vice President starting June 25, 2023. Ramsey received 1,344 votes to win the election with 55.4 percent of the majority.
An NCHA member for over 20 years, Ramsey has been involved in multiple aspects of the industry from showing at both the weekend and limited age events across the country, and breeding and owning cutting horses. He has served on both the Finance and Amateur committees for six years, serving as chairman of the Amateur committee for three and vice chairman for two. Additionally, Ramsey is an active director from North Carolina and has served in this role for six years.
“The NCHA is a strong organization, well positioned on a road that keeps our western heritage alive,” incoming NCHA vicepresident, Ramsey said. “That road to success is always under construction and it runs through its members. I want to continue building that road.”
The Southwest United States continues to endure a “megadrought,” a term used to describe drought conditions lasting at least two decades. As a result, the question of why we grow certain crops in the desert, specifically alfalfa hay, often arises.
The share of water going toward alfalfa hay production supports the dairy and livestock industry, ultimately our local food supply chain. Still, some believe the amount of water used to irrigate alfalfa is a major contributing factor to the region’s shortage, and fail to recognize alfalfa’s economic efficiencies, environmental impacts and agronomic benefits to our ecosystem.
Alfalfa in the Southwest ecosystem provides many environmental benefits.
Besides its economic importance, alfalfa also may help reduce the impacts of climate change. Because it covers the soil for a longer time than any other crop, alfalfa is envisioned as a leading
Developed by Brad Pryor, President of Rafter P Construction in collaboration with the NCHA, this award was developed to provide financial assistance for an outstanding youth member to attend the 2023 Great American Insurance Group Summer Cutting Spectacular and 2023 NYCHA Holy Cow Performance Horses Youth World Finals. The winner will be immersed in the National Youth Cutting Horse Association convention events this July.
“Winning a scholarship from an organization I admire so much is a huge honor. My journey in the cutting horse industry is just beginning, and attending one of the NCHA’s Triple Crown shows is a wonderful opportunity. I am excited to watch incredible horses and riders compete and make new connections. All of this will continue to propel my passion for this sport,” said award recipient Brooke Salmon.
“I am interested in supporting the youth of the NCHA because to me that is where the foundation of an organization is built from. I feel that the NCHA has built a great program during their NYCHA convention to really educate these kids about the industry and how to be successful no matter what their path forward is. I am excited to see the growth of this program and feel our first recipient Brooke is very deserving of this award” said Brad Pryor, president of Rafter P Construction.
NCHA is very passionate about continuing to grow youth involvement in the Western way of life and is thankful to have incredible partners like Rafter P Construction to create new opportunities.
option for soil carbon sequestration, also known as “regenerative agriculture,” especially with the need to decrease carbon emissions and introduce the carbon credits initiative.
Incorporating a perennial legume such as alfalfa can help stabilize soils nutritionally depleted by row crop or specialty crop production, as has occurred in many agricultural areas in the Western U.S. Alfalfa was introduced into crop rotation in Europe, and encouraged globally, as a measure of the Agri-Environmental Scheme to reduce the impacts of agriculture intensification on the environment.
Switching from annual forage crop production for dairy animals and livestock feed to perennial alfalfa can minimize soil disturbance and erosion. This practice can help restore depleted soils, minimize inputs and decrease the footprint of agricultural production.
While suspected of higher total applied irrigation water than many other crops, alfalfa has greater water use efficiency. Additionally, the entire above-ground portion of the plant is harvested as many as 12 times per year in the Southwestern region. When compared to other crops harvested less frequently, alfalfa’s ratio of harvestable biomass/water applied shows it is far more water efficient. Furthermore, the majority of the irrigation water used in alfalfa is recycled back into the environment.
Alfalfa is a rich habitat for wildlife allowing for a diversity of local niches and preserving many endangered species from different animal families.
Alfalfa fields are important contributors to the biodiversity of agricultural systems by functioning as insectaries for beneficial insects, many of which are pollinators or natural enemies that play important roles in the low desert agroecosystem. Beneficial insects move from alfalfa fields into other crops, where they play crucial roles in pollination and biological control. These roles reduce our reliance on synthetic insecticides.
Western alfalfa production is quite different from production in other areas where non-dormant, irrigated varieties provide yearround habitat for insects. This allows alfalfa to play an important role in insecticide resistance management by acting as a refuge, especially for aphids and whiteflies.
Alfalfa improves soil characteristics with its deep roots; as a legume, it fixes atmospheric nitrogen through bacteria in the root nodules. Because of its nature as a perennial plant that stays in the field for three to five years, alfalfa helps trap sediments and takes up nitrate pollutants, mitigating water and air pollution.
In summary, if alfalfa fields are eliminated or significantly reduced, it is highly likely most of the original acreage will be converted to residential and commercial uses. This situation will likely decrease farmland and increase the population in those areas. As a result, the region may experience shortages of certain food products thereby relying on food from non-local sources, including those imported from abroad. This will likely increase food prices and extend the supply chain. With the increase in population comes all known environmental impacts, alteration of ecosystems, and pollution of air, water and soil, all of which impact our carbon footprint.
Ayman M. Mostafa, Ph.D., is Area Programmatic Agent & Regional Specialist Cooperative Extension & Dept. of Entomology at The University of Arizona. This column was originally published by Arizona Farm Bureau and is republished with permission.
The American Quarter Horse Association is launching AQHLearn.com, an online library of horse knowledge for youth ages 8 to 18, with an updated look and variety of courses. AQHLearn provides resources for youth to learn
more about horses through an online learning platform.
The site features topics that pertain to all aspects of horses, including horse health, history and basic knowledge. New courses will be released on an ongoing basis.
AQHLearn includes materials for beginner, intermediate and advanced learning levels so people of all ages can gain the most knowledge from these resources. Users can learn new information or brush up on previously learned skills and take quizzes at the end of each section to earn course completion certificates.
As a brand-new member benefit, AQHLearn is free for all AQHA or AQHYA members. Members should visit www. aqhlearn.com to get started.
Not a member? Join or renew an AQHA or AQHYA membership at www.aqha.com/ membership-form. For a limited time, use code AQHLEARN to purchase or renew a 12-month AQHYA membership for $19 (regularly priced at $25). Disclaimer
The Publisher and Editor cannot be held responsible for errors or any consequences arising from the use of information contained in this publication; the views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the Publisher and Editors, neither does the publication of advertisements constitute any endorsement by the Publisher and Editors of the products advertised.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) paid nearly $9 million in 2022 to ease the educational debt load of 89 veterinarians through the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program (VMLRP). The federal program is designed to shore up shortages in food animal practice or public practice. For years, the AVMA has successfully secured funding for the VMLRP.
The awards were for 73 new VMLRP applicants and 16 program renewals, according to a NIFA report (PDF). Most new program awardees (78%) and half of renewal awardees had over $100,000 in educational loan debt. Of those, nearly 47% carried a debt load exceeding $150,000, the report stated.
The VMLRP is designed to help increase access to food animal veterinary services in rural areas by assisting with the obstacle of educational debt. VMLRP awardees commit to providing at least three years of food animal veterinary services in a designated veterinary shortage area in return for payments of up to $25,000 of student loan debt per year with a maximum of $75,000 for a threeyear contract.
NIFA has made 795 awards as new and renewal service agreements since the program was established by Congress in 2010. In that time, NIFA has received 2,061 applications from 1,451 unique applicants.
An audit of VMLRP from federal fiscal year (FY) 2010-21 identified approximately $1.5 million in additional funding, according to the report. So, in addition to VMLRP's annual appropriation of $8.5 million, the amount available for awards in FY2022 was $10 million. Of this, the program awarded $8,926,394.In 2021, VMLRP awards totaling $7.5 million were made to 78 veterinarians.
Awardees and shortage situations. Applicants to VMLRP last year applied an average of 3.8 years after their year of graduation, with all applicants graduating between 2003-22.
The largest number of applicants had graduated from Iowa State University and Washington State University veterinary colleges with 16 each and Iowa State alumni receiving the most new awards totaling 10.
The VMLRP awards for FY2022 were for service in veterinary shortage areas in a total of 36 states. These shortage areas include eight each in California, Colorado, and Texas.
Thirteen awards are for type 1 shortages, at least 80% food animal practice. Sixty-nine awards are for type 2 shortages, at least 30% food animal practice in rural areas. Seven awards are for type 3 shortages, at least 49% public practice.
Of the 226 designated FY2022 shortage areas, NIFA made awards in 73, or 32.3% of the shortage areas. In addition, 16 renewal applicants received awards in previously designated shortage areas.
Federal taxation on VMLRP awards. Unlike similar programs for physicians and other human health care providers, VMLRP awards are federally taxed, meaning the USDA pays 37% of the annual congressional appropriation to the VMLRP. For years, the AVMA has pressed Congress to eliminate the tax by passing the bipartisan Rural Veterinary Workforce Act, formerly known as the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program Enhancement Act (VMLRPEA). On June 23, U.S. Reps Adrian Smith of Nebraska, John Larson of Connecticut, Michelle Fischbach of Minnesota, and Jimmy Panetta of California reintroduced the legislation in the House of Representatives.
By eliminating the federal tax, the AVMA says the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act would maximize funding to the program as Congress intended and make additional awards available for veterinarians to serve in shortage areas.
GLENDALE, Ariz. – Ahead of the second season for the ground-breaking PBR (Professional Bull Riders) Teams league, the Arizona Ridge Riders, Arizona’s first-ever professional bull riding team, today announced their 2023 game schedule.
The 2023 PBR Teams season will include a three-day homestand hosted by each of the eight founding teams, accompanied by two, twoday neutral site events. During event days, each of the league’s eight founding teams will compete in one five-on-five bull riding game against another team, with each team competing in 28 games throughout the regular season. The PBR Teams Championship returns to T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on October 20-22.
The Ridge Riders will hold their second-annual homestand, the ninth event of the 10-event regular season, on Friday, September 29 through Sunday, October 1 at Glendale, Arizona’s Desert Diamond Arena. During their event, they will play the Nashville Stampede (Sept. 29), Missouri Thunder (Sept. 30) and Oklahoma Freedom (Oct. 1).
Most new program awardees (78%) and half of renewal awardees had over $100,000 in educational loan debt. Of those, nearly 47% carried a debt load exceeding $150,000, the report stated.
Las Vegas Events announced today that two Vegas NFR Icons will be honored at the 2023 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. The Vegas NFR Icons this year are Billy Etbauer and Cody Ohl.
During the Dec. 8 and 9 performances, each of the rodeo champions will be honored on the hallowed dirt of the Thomas & Mack Center. The presentation will include each receiving a 14” commemorative bronze statue and a ceremony to unfurl a banner in the rafters at the Thomas & Mack Center.
The in-arena schedule for the icons is as follows: Friday, Dec. 8 – Billy Etbauer & Saturday, Dec. 9 – Cody Ohl. “Las Vegas Events is committed to honoring the legends who have defined what it means to be a champion at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo,” said LVE President Tim Keener. “Billy Etbauer and Cody Ohl are true icons of the sport and synonymous with the events they competed in at the Thomas & Mack Center. The history and legacy of the Wrangler NFR is driven by its great champions, and we are honored to continue this tradition that was launched in 2022 when we honored Trevor Brazile, Charmayne James and Ty Murray.”
For each icon, LVE will develop a promotional campaign to promote the two legends and build a daily activation calendar to build anticipation for the ceremony inside the Thomas & Mack Center that evening.
In addition to the banner ceremony during the second and third Wrangler NFR performances, several events are planned for the Icons. They will appear at The Cowboy Channel Cowboy Christmas on Wrangler NFR programming on The Cowboy Channel. The 2nd Annual Vegas NFR Icons Tribute Luncheon is set for Friday, Dec. 8 at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas where they will spend time with hosts Butch Knowles and Jeff Medders. The two announcers are icons themselves as they have been the broadcast team for the NFR for more than 30 years.
Additional details about the 2nd Annual Vegas NFR Icons Tribute Luncheon will be announced at a later date on www. NFRexperience.com.
One of the most popular cowboys of his generation, Etbauer won five saddle bronc world titles (1992, 1996, 1999, 2000 and 2004) and garners respect for both his go-for-broke style and his humility during his career that covered parts of four decades. A native of Huron, South Dakota, he was the middle brother of three world-class bronc riders. Etbauer qualified for the NFR in his second year as a professional in 1989. He went on to make the field a record 21 consecutive years, win an NFR-record 51 rounds
and surpass $3 million in career earnings. He still shares the NFR record with his 93-point ride on Kesler Championship Rodeo’s Cool Alley in 2003. He tied the record a year later on a 10th-round ride that clinched the last of his five gold buckles.
“It is an honor and blessing to be part of the Vegas NFR Icons,” said Etbauer. “I’m thankful to so many that helped me throughout my career and allowed me to make a living doing what I love. I still feel very fortunate to have won world titles during my career and had the support of sponsors like Express Ranches that made it possible to keep competing. As for Cody, when you rodeo with guys like that, even though we were in different events, you knew you had to raise your game.”
Ohl put his stamp on ProRodeo in 1994 by winning Rookie of the Year and earning his first trip to the NFR. It would take Ohl a few years to win his first gold buckle. He edged out Fred Whitfield to capture the 1997 Tie-Down World Title and roared through the 1998 season, capturing his second title. He had another recordsetting year in 2001 as he added steer roping and team roping in order to compete for the All-Around title. In the ninth round of the NFR, Ohl missed his calf on the first loop. A second loop caught the calf by the hind legs. As Ohl dismounted, he twisted his knee, tearing two major ligaments. He had to be carried out of the arena by the Justin Sportsmedicine Team. However, he had amassed enough money earlier in the week to secure both the tie-down title and the All-Around title. He accepted both buckles from crutches on the 10th night. He went on to capture his fifth and sixth tie-down roping titles in 2003 and 2006. He still owns the record for the most NFR rounds won, 52.
“When you compete at this level, the world championship is what you shoot for,” said Ohl. “Being inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame was the icing on my career, but Vegas is where everything got started, so I’m so appreciative of this honor. There is no other town where you get a feeling like Vegas…that’s how much Vegas means to me. And, going in with Billy, he is one of my alltime heroes who always shined at the NFR, especially in the 10th round when it counted the most. I’m a huge fan and honored to be included with him.”
Known as the richest and most prestigious rodeo in the world, the Wrangler NFR attracts the top 15 contestants in bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, barrel racing and bull riding to compete for a share of the increased purse and the coveted PRCA Gold Buckle. In 2022, the event had a total attendance of 173,350 over the 10 days of competition at the Thomas & Mack Center and has sold out more than 350 consecutive performances in Las Vegas.
WASHINGTON, June 14, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today that it is implementing a multi-step effort aimed at strengthening the substantiation of animalraising claims. This action builds on the significant work USDA has already undertaken to protect consumers from false and misleading labels and to implement President Biden’s Executive Order on Promoting Competition in the American economy.
“Consumers should be able to trust that the label claims they see on products bearing the USDA mark of inspection are truthful and accurate,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “USDA is taking action today to ensure the integrity of animal-raising claims and level the playing field for producers who are truthfully using these claims, which we know consumers value and rely on to guide their meat and poultry purchasing decisions.”
Animal-raising claims, such as “grass-fed” and “free-range,” are voluntary marketing claims that highlight certain aspects of how the source animals for meat and poultry products are raised. These claims must be approved by USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) before they can be included on the labels of meat and poultry products sold to consumers. FSIS most recently updated its guideline on these claims in 2019.
FSIS has received several petitions, comments, and letters from a wide range of stakeholders asking the agency to reevaluate its oversight of animal-raising claims, specifically, how they are substantiated. In addition, the veracity of “negative” antibiotics claims (e.g., “raised without antibiotics” or “no antibiotics ever”) has come into question.
FSIS, in partnership with USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS), will be conducting a sampling project to assess antibiotic residues in cattle destined for the “raised without antibiotics” market. The results of this project will help inform whether FSIS should require that laboratory testing results be submitted for the “raised without antibiotics” claim or start a new verification sampling program.
FSIS will also be issuing a revised industry guideline to recommend that companies strengthen the documentation they submit to the agency to substantiate animal-raising claims. The agency plans to strongly encourage use of third-party certification to verify these claims.
Together these actions will be used to guide potential rulemaking on animal-raising claims. USDA looks forward to continued engagement with stakeholders as it works to ensure these claims meet consumer expectations.
Manhattan, Kan., May 24, 2023 – Today, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) officials celebrated the dedication and ribbon-cutting of the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF). This facility, which offers the highest level of biocontainment laboratories and safety protocols, is the first of its kind in the United States and will allow scientists to study and diagnose critical animal diseases.
“America’s farmers, ranchers and consumers count on our researchers to understand, monitor for and develop solutions to combat a variety of high-consequence animal pathogens, and a facility of this magnitude positions us to respond,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “This new, innovative facility will give USDA scientists access to cutting-edge, safe and secure technology so they can continue to lead the world in animal health research, training and diagnostics to protect our food supply, agricultural economy and public health.”
The valuable scientific information delivered by researchers at NBAF will also allow America to remain a leading contributor of countermeasures that will protect agriculture, economies and citizens across the globe.
NBAF will replace DHS’ Plum Island Animal Disease Center, which is a biosafety level-3 facility in New York that is more than 68 years old. Both departments have collaborated on the requirements for this next-generation science facility since 2006, and Manhattan, Kan. was selected as NBAF’s site in 2009. DHS led NBAF’s design and construction, and USDA will own and operate the facility.
“NBAF is a historic investment for agriculture and our Nation in ensuring the health, safety and security of the U.S. food supply,” said Under Secretary and USDA Chief Scientist Chavonda JacobsYoung. “As the first facility of its kind in the United States, the innovative and cutting-edge solutions our scientists and partners can produce here will lead efforts to protect public health and address new and emerging diseases for many years to come.”
“This new facility highlights USDA’s commitment to taking every step possible to protect the United States from transboundary, emerging, and zoonotic animal diseases,” said Under Secretary for USDA’s Marketing and Regulatory Programs Jenny Moffitt. “Through investments like these, we can ensure our country has the tools to keep the American people and our agricultural animals safe, and to prevent diseases costly to farmers.”
With more than 400 employees, USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) will share NBAF’s operational responsibilities. ARS will primarily focus on research to understand high-consequence and emerging animal diseases and develop countermeasures, such as vaccines and antivirals. APHIS will focus on prevention, surveillance, diagnosis and response to these diseases, including the expertise to manage two vaccine banks and train state and federal veterinarians to recognize livestock diseases.
“NBAF’s Midwest location offers researchers and diagnosticians closer proximity to develop key partnerships with the animal health industry and several academic institutions,” said NBAF Director Dr. Alfonso Clavijo.
THE RUN FOR A MILLION, PRESENTED BY TETON RIDGE
Academy-Award nominee Taylor Sheridan, writer of HELL OR HIGH WATER and SICARIO, WRITER/DIRECTOR of WIND RIVER and co-creator of YELLOWSTONE, wanted to design a venue that showcased the talent of both horse and rider in one of the most demanding equine sports in existence: Reining. Sheridan has partnered with Amanda Brumley, Brumley Management Group producer of three National Reining Horse Association leading events world-wide, to create and produce this one of a kind event.
THE RUN FOR A MILLION, presented by Teton Ridge, offers the unprecedented opportunity to introduce millions of viewers to the sport of Reining. Sixteen of the industries most successful Reining Professionals will compete for a total purse of $1,000,000. In addition to the main event there will be a $150,000 Open Shoot Out, $170,000 Cow Horse Challenge, presented by Teton Ridge, and $50,000 Bull Fighters Only Fight For Fifty. On top of the tremendous prize money, the top six riders in the Open Shoot Out will be guaranteed a position in the 2023 Million Dollar Competition at THE RUN FOR A MILLION, presented by Teton Ridge.
Other performances include THE RUN FOR A MILLION, presented by Teton Ridge, Bloomer Rookie Championship, $50,000 Added Non Pro Championship. Riders can qualify for these Championships at a multitude of host events across the United States, Canada and Australia.
The goal in creating and producing THE RUN FOR A MILLION, presented by Teton Ridge, is to introduce new people to the world of western performance horses while supporting all of those who have made Reining our life’s passion. It is also intended to offer a platform for the products horsemen and horsewomen depend on that is unprecedented in its reach and value.
MILLION DOLLAR COMPETITION
some of the National Cutting Horse Association’s best riders and horses to go head to head, one go, for lucrative prize money and awards. The featured performance is Thursday, August 17, 2023. Qualified riders include: Picture
KENNY PLATT - Fort Lupton, CO
AUSTIN SHEPARD - Summerdale, Alabama Summerdale, Alabama
TARIN RICE - Weatherford, TX
MATT GAINES - Weatherford, TX
MICHAEL COOPER - Weatherford, TX
ADAN BANUELOS - Weatherford, TX
MONTY BUNTIN - Lancaster, CA
WESLEY GAYLEAN - Claremore, OK
LLOYD COX - Marietta, OK
CLAY JOHNSON - Weatherford, TX
MATT MILLER - Poolville, TX
$200,000 COW HORSE CHALLENGE
Riders must qualify to compete in the $200,000 Cow Horse Challenge at either the NRCHA Stallion Stakes, Las Vegas, NV March 24 - April 4, 2023, the NRCHA Western Derby, Scottsdale, AZ May 31 - June 10, 2023, or the NRCHA Eastern Derby, Tulsa, OK July 24 - 30, 2023. The top five riders from each event will qualify to compete at TRFAM. This one-horse, one-rider competition is for Bridle horses only, based on NRCHA rules.
$30,000 COWBOY INVITATIONAL
Ten cowboys from United States Heritage Ranches, one cowboy per ranch, will compete for $30,000 in prize money. The competitors will compete a traditional reining and cow work run, and steer stopping.
Before riding for the $30,000 in prize money at The Run For A Million, in Las Vegas, cowboys from some of the country’s most historic ranches will be invited to a Cowboy Clinic to freshen up their skills. Keep and eye on NRCHA.com for updates on who will throw their hat in the ring in Las Vegas!
THE ARENA
For
Cell: 602-390-3555
EMAIL: bridleandbit@aol.com US ON FACEBOOK
Disclaimer
The Million Dollar Competition at The Run For A Million is limited to sixteen riders who have to qualify at one of two events, 2022 The Run For A Million $100,000 Open Shootout and the Cactus Reining Classic, March 25, 2023 at WestWorld of Scottsdale, Scottsdale, Arizona. These riders will have the opportunity to participate in this one go-round, all out competition for $1,000,000, with the Champion receiving $500,000! NRHA Category 11 Approved.
Since opening in February 2006, The South Point Arena has quickly become a fan favorite in Las Vegas, and is easily recognized as the nicest indoor facility in the country. With just one step inside the property it is easy to see why. Surrounded by the beautiful South Point Hotel, Casino, and Spa, the Arena is conveniently located near the 80,000 sq. ft. Exhibit Hall and just a short distance from 2,163 beautiful hotel rooms. With intimate permanent seating of 4,600 and ample parking and staging areas, the South Point Arena is perfect for a variety of events.
Upon entering the Arena, fans are immediately drawn to the Saloon, which is the centerpiece of the Arena and overlooks all the action. Plenty of concession stands with affordable pricing are spread throughout the venue and the restroom to guest ratio is higher than most arenas. Hotel guests also enjoy the Arena room channel completely dedicated to events held in the Arena.
WASHINGTON, June 22, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced its selection of 50 projects for potential award, totaling approximately $300 million. These innovative projects will help improve access to land, capital, and markets for underserved farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners. The Increasing Land, Capital, and Market Access (Increasing Land Access) Program, which is funded by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, works to increase access to farm ownership opportunities, improve results for those with heirs’ property or fractionated land, increase access to markets and capital that affect the ability to access land, and improve land ownership, land succession and agricultural business planning.
“Land access, market access and capital are critical to the success of the hardworking producers who keep agriculture thriving,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Underserved producers have not had access to the amount of specialized technical support that would increase opportunities to access and capital and benefit the launch, growth, resilience, and success of their agricultural enterprises. The Increasing Land Access Program is part of the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to advancing equity for all, including people who have been underserved, marginalized, and adversely affected by inequality, by providing the resources, tools and technical support needed to directly help local farmers and ensure we have a strong agricultural system across the country.”
Examples of selectees for potential award include:
Community Development Corporation of Oregon will work to provide long term and sustainable land access to disadvantaged refugee and immigrant beginning farmers in Oregon’s east Multnomah and Clackamas counties. A few of the goals of the project are to purchase the currently rented farm, reduce the net cost of the land through a conservation or working lands easement, and provide an equitable and engaging process of education and training about cooperative land ownership, finance concepts, and related USDA programs.
The Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin will work to establish an equity capital fund to provide support for Tribal producers’ land, equipment, and operational needs. Additionally, this project will work to provide targeted technical assistance to Tribal producers in developing comprehensive farm and food business plans, including conservation plans to support expanded production and access to the full suite of USDA and other support resources.
Workin’ Rootz will work to increase access to land and capacitybuilding at five urban farms/community market gardens in Detroit which include Workin’ Roots Farm, Love n’ Labor, Foster Patch Community Garden, Love Earth Herbal, and Urban Bush Sistahs. These farms will serve as resource hubs by sharing infrastructure (tiller, lawn tractor, wash and pack, cooler storage, etc.) with other urban farmers and gardeners in their prospective neighborhoods. Maine Farmland Trust will work with low-income farmers on access to low-interest capital for land purchase or business operations, farm upgrades and infrastructure investments that promote viability, technical assistance in the areas of real estate and business planning, and more.
Alabama A&M University, in collaboration with four other 1890 land grant universities (Southern University, Alcorn State University,
Fort Valley State University, and Tennessee State University) and many other local organizations, will provide delivery of technical assistance to underserved farm populations in chronically and economically depressed communities of Alabama, Tennessee, and Mississippi to ensure the success of existing farmers and ranchers and to rapidly increase the numbers of small farm operators in the targeted communities.
The tentative selectees include national, regional, and local projects that cover 40 states and territories including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. USDA will work with the selected applicants to finalize the scope and funding levels in the coming months.
A full list of the selected projects is available on the Increasing Land Access Program website.
These projects will likely result in the purchase of land, construction of farm infrastructure and other activities that could have potential impacts on environmental resources. USDA has developed a Programmatic Environmental Assessment for the Increasing Land Access Program to evaluate the program’s overarching environmental impacts as they relate to the National Environmental Policy Act.
The environmental assessment is available online for public review. USDA is requesting comments on the program’s potential impact on the environment. The feedback will be incorporated into the final assessment, as appropriate, prior to a decision.
USDA will consider comments received by Friday, July 14, 2023, at 5 p.m. EDT. Comments received after that date will be considered to the extent possible.
Comments may be submitted:
Electronically at: Land.Access@usda.gov
By mail at: Attn: Michael Mannigan, Grants Management Specialist, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, Outreach Office, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, DC, 20250-0506
For more information, contact Michael Mannigan at Land. Access@usda.gov. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication should contact the USDA Target Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice).
The Increasing Land Access Program was originally announced in August 2022 as part of a broader investment to help ensure underserved producers have the resources, tools, programs and technical support they need to succeed and is being funded by the Inflation Reduction Act.
The Increasing Land Access Program is part of USDA’s commitment to equity across the Department and steps it has taken under Secretary Vilsack’s direction to improve equity and access, eliminate barriers to its programs for underserved individuals and communities, and build a workforce more representative of America. Earlier in the year, the USDA Equity Commission, which is comprised of independent members from diverse backgrounds, released its interim recommendations to remove barriers to inclusion and access at USDA.
The 2023 AQHA Versatility Ranch Horse World Championships and concurrent events hosted more than 3,100 entries.
Qualifying has already started for 2024, so don’t miss the opportunity to earn your spot at next year’s event held at the Tri State Fair and Expo in Amarillo.
June 28, 2023 | News and Publications , Showing , Showing , Ranching , Ranching , Ranching | Ranch Trail , Ranching , Ranching , Ranching , Ranch Horse Journal , Ranching events and shows , Livestock shows and fairs , Shows , World shows , Championship shows , Ranching , Ranching , Ranching , Working ranch horse , Versatility ranch horse , Showing , Showing , Ranch riding , Events and shows
The 2023 American Quarter Horse Association Versatility Ranch Horse World Championships and concurrent ranch horse events concluded June 24 at the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie, Oklahoma. The event hosted over 440 exhibitors; more than 480 horses; and over 3,100 entries between the AQHA VRH World; AQHA Ranching Heritage Challenge Finals; AQHA Cattle Level 1 Championships, presented by the Four Sixes Ranch; and National Ranch and Stock Horse Alliance National Championship Show. The combined purse and prizes of the four premier shows was over $375,000.
The show featured a variety of events, including ranch cutting, ranch trail, ranch conformation, ranch reining, team roping, barrel racing, ranch riding, ranch cow work, working ranch horse and, for the first time, steer stopping and breakaway roping.
“This show showcases exactly what we want to see in ranchbred horses,” said Karen McCuistion, senior director of member programs. “Competing in five different performance classes then moving into conformation is the epitome of what the American
In addition to the nine VRH world champion titles, 54 VRH class championships, seven NRSHA national all-around championships, 35 NRSHA class championships, seven Level 1 youth and seven amateur and one Select Level 1 championships, and 28 Ranching Heritage Challenge championships, the event also recognized the top AQHA Ranching Heritage-bred horses.
View the official results, score sheets, the Journal’s Champion Pages at www.aqha.com/vrhworld. You can also visit the AQHA Showing Facebook page and YouTube page to watch the action from the show, including the AQHA VRH World Highlights videos and interviews with the newly crowned world champions.
Qualifying has already started for 2024, so don’t miss the opportunity to earn your spot at next year’s event held at the Tri State Fair and Expo in Amarillo.
The AQHA VRH World combines four premiere ranch horse events into one: the AQHA VRH World, AQHA RHC Finals, AQHA Cattle Level 1 Championships and NRSHA National Championship Show. This prestigious event draws ranch-horse competitors from around the globe each June to crown nine AQHA VRH world champions along with champions in the AQHA RHC Finals, Cattle Level 1 and NRSHA championship shows in addition to awarding approximately $375,000 in purse and prizes.
For more information on the AQHA VRH World and corresponding events, visit www.aqha.com/versatility.
Learn more about the Four Sixes Ranch, the presenting sponsor of the 2023 AQHA Cattle Level 1 Championships.
AQHA news and information is a service of the American Quarter Horse Association. For more news and information, follow @AQHA on Twitter, watch the AQHA Newscast and visit www. aqha.com/news.
The 1999 mare was bred by Henry E. Brown, and is a daughter of American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame sire Strawfly Special and out of the world champion Dashing Folly. She made only three career starts before retiring to the broodmare band where she would make a legendary impact.
Owned at the time of her passing by Anapurus Comercio E Part Ltda, Dashin Follies has 41 registered foals, of which 34 are race starters. She produced 24 winners and runners who earned $1,702,537.
Her top foals are the Corona Cartel full brothers, PYC Paint Your Wagon and Ivory James, who are both top sires.
PYC Paint Your Wagon earned $889,581 in his race career, including winning the Grade 1 Texas Classic Futurity, Heritage Place Derby and Texas Classic Derby.
Ivory James earned $220,026 in his race career, including a second-place finish in the 2006 Heritage Place Futurity (G1).
PYC Paint Your Wagon has to date sired the earners of more than $39.8 million, and Ivory James has sired the earners of more than $23.1 million.
She is also the dam of six-figure earners Mi Angela ($137,723) and Eye Follies ($101,315).
Her daughters have also been producers, headed by Grade 1-placed Im Jess Special V ($523,862), a gelding out of Special Folly Dash.
Rodeo family prayers for the heartbroken family and friends of Nebraska timed-event cowboy Terrel Vineyard, who headed to Heaven at 27 after being struck by lightning while horseback with a rope in his
hand last Wednesday, June 21. Terrel’s horse “Dose” died with him.
Terrel roped calves and team roped. Also a lifelong ranch cowboy, he moved back home to the family ranch in 2017, and has worked side by side with his dad, Shawn— just like old times in Terrel’s childhood—ever since. In 2020, Terrel met the love of his life,
Stacey, and also fell in love with her three little girls, Maddie, Aubree and Blayke. Terrel and Stacey were newlyweds, after getting married on February 10 earlier this year.
Terrel is survived by Stacey and those darling little girls, Maddie, Aubree and Blayke; his mom and dad, Shawn and Nancy Vineyard; his big sister, Tori Vineyard Scantling, her
Terrel’s memorial service was held on, Tuesday, June 27 at the Garden County Fairgrounds Arena in Lewellen, Nebraska, with Pastor Matt Waitley of the New Hope Church in Ogallala officiating. Attendees are encouraged to come horseback, as Terrel’s family would love to fill that arena with cowboy and cowgirl friends on their horses in his honor.
Burial will follow the service at the Antelope Valley Cemetery near Oshkosh. A memorial account has been set up for Stacey Vineyard at the Nebraska State Bank, PO Box 260, Oshkosh, NE 69154.
notables Butch Knowles and Tom Feller and standout bareback horse Nightjacket, rodeo committees from the St. Paul (Ore.) Rodeo and Cowtown Rodeo in Pilesgrove, N.J., and barrel racer Sherry (Combs) Johnson, the 1962 WPRA World Champion and WPRA notable Fay Ann Horton Leach.
By TANNER BARTH, PRCA Media Coordinator Steer
wrestler Luke
Branquinho, a five-time PRCA World Champion, heads up a star-studded 2023 induction class for the ProRodeo Hall of Fame.
Branquinho is joined by twotime PRCA World Champion Saddle Bronc Rider Cody Wright (2008 and 2010), World Champion Team Roper Doyle Gellerman (1981), pickup man Kenny Clabaugh, rodeo
EMAIL:
WASHINGTON, June 14, 2023
— Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland today issued a joint memo (PDF, 194 KB) to federal agency leaders with wildfire responsibilities outlining their vision and goals for managing wildland fires this year.
The memo’s release
follows a recent briefing that President Biden held with cabinet officials and agency leaders on the nation’s preparedness for wildfires and the hurricane season, and comes on the heels of record wildfires in Canada that have caused dangerous levels of air pollution across the East. Last week, the Biden-Harris
administration provided details on support for communities impacted by the Canada wildfires.
In addition to fire suppression investments from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, the memo highlights other strategic priorities to reduce wildfire risk, restore ecosystems, engage in post-fire recovery, and make communities more resilient to fire.
The memo also references the National Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy as a guide to working with partners to restore and maintain resilient landscapes and help communities become fire adapted. The recently updated cohesive strategy reinforces the need for cross-boundary collaboration to meet today’s wildland fire management challenges, including climate change; workforce capacity; health and wellbeing; community resilience; and diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice.
“Wildland firefighters perform physically demanding, rigorous and dangerous work that is essential to protect people and communities,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “We need to better support our firefighters and that’s why President Biden has proposed long-term reforms that will provide permanent pay increases, better housing, better mental and physical health resources, and better work-life balance.”
“Climate change is driving a devastating intersection of extreme heat, drought and wildland fire danger across the United States, creating wildfires that move with a speed and intensity unlike anything we have ever seen. I know firsthand the impact this is having across the West,” said Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland. “We must use every opportunity provided by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda to support the wildland firefighters who put their lives on the line to keep communities safe.”
USDA and the Interior Department aim to have more than 17,000 wildland firefighters on board by the end of this year to help support communities increasingly impacted by wildfires. Air resources, heavy equipment and other support personnel also are ready to respond as wildfire activity increases. The President’s fiscal year 2024 budget and accompanying legislative proposal (PDF, 384 KB) would enable the departments to provide the country’s federal wildland fire workforce with improved and well-deserved benefits.
As of the most recent pay period, more than 14,000 Forest Service and 5,000 Interior Department wildland firefighters have received a total of more than $381 million in temporary pay supplements provided by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Firefighters face a pay cliff if
Congress doesn’t implement a permanent pay increase soon as the remainder of these funds will run out around September 30. Without congressional action, in fiscal year 2024, firefighters’ base salaries will return to their previous levels, in some cases only $15 per hour.
The Administration remains committed to working with Congress to implement the workforce reforms proposed in the FY 2024 President’s Budget and accompanying legislative proposal. These reforms build on the temporary pay increases in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law by authorizing and funding permanent pay reforms, increasing the number of permanent firefighters, providing mental and physical health support, and expanding housing options.
Historic investments from the President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act have expanded efforts to reduce wildfire risk, including increased hazardous fuels treatments, post-wildfire restoration, and funding for wildland fire science. Both Departments have made substantial progress toward completing fuels treatments on 6.1 million acres this year.
Last year, nearly 69,000 wildfires burned more than 7.5 million acres across the United States with many acres burning at high severity. Like many recent fire years, the reported number of wildfires nationwide was higher than the ten-year average, up by more than 10,000 fires from 2021. These fires have overwhelming impacts on the
Wildfire Protec text message binged – notice reads Brushfire at 130th and Rio Verde Drive, time 4.49pm. First truck rolls minutes later toward a five-acre construction-site fire turning into a raging inferno sweeping across the desert at alarming speed. Eleven-mile winds from the southwest are seen on the
local tv broadcasts driving the fire forward toward homes and ranches on the southside of Rio Verde Foothills putting the tinderbox of over 1,200 homes at immediate risk.
As the tv helicopter footage rolled, viewers had a firsthand look as flames marched toward a long line of homes. In moments the flames began licking at perimeter walls of one estate trying to find something to lite on the other side. Suddenly a spotter plane appeared from the west diving into the thick black smoke billowing from the flames and disappearing into the darkness as a DC-10 enters the screen ever so low, and lower dispersing the retardant in a line of defense so perfectly laid letting you know it’s not this pilots first rodeo.
Watching on tv it got spooky and listening to the feedback from the team in the field added to the suspene of the wildfire breaking into the structures. The scout planes would return, and with them the DC10s. Suddenly a major ranch appeared, it was Michael and Michelle Miola’s Silver Spur Ranch. The sprawling grounds were being approached from the open desert with a wall of flame stretching hundreds of feet. It’s just abut panic time when out of nowhere a DC10 swooped down drawing a pink link in the desert that had been flame seconds ago. Whew that was a close one, and it went on and on into the darkness.
The planes don’t fly at night, and all folks could do was watch the red sky and filter out the smoke the best they could.
Las Vegas Events (LVE) announced today the expansion of The Cowboy Channel Cowboy Christmas and RMEF’s Hunter & Outdoor Christmas (HOC) into Central Halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center. The new area – Junior World Finals Rodeo & More – will feature additional exhibitors and the Wrangler Rodeo Arena, home of the YETI Junior World Finals.
The expansion into Central
Halls is precipitated by both the growth in attendance at The Cowboy Channel Cowboy Christmas and HOC and the ongoing renovation of the Las Vegas Convention Center. From Dec. 7 – 16, rodeo fans will experience all the shopping and interactive elements of The Cowboy
Channel Cowboy Christmas and HOC on both Levels 1 and 2 of South Halls, as well as the new area in Central Halls. In 2022, these shows attracted 279,465 attendees over ten days.
Junior World Finals Rodeo & More will include the 1,200-seat Wrangler Rodeo Arena and
additional exhibitors. The YETI Junior World Finals will run concurrently with The Cowboy Channel Cowboy Christmas and HOC with competitions in nine rodeo events running daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The additional 150,000+ square feet of space will be home to both the RMEF’s Hunter Outdoor Christmas and The Cowboy Channel Cowboy Christmas existing and new exhibitors along with a new Bites & Brews and additional bar locations. In addition, the YETI Junior World Finals will have its own staging lot, opening additional parking for attendees.
“This is all very exciting news, and we want to thank both the Las Vegas Convention Center and Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation for being great partners through this process,” Gardner continued.
The shopping and entertainment available for rodeo fans at The Cowboy Channel Cowboy Christmas and the Junior World Finals Rodeo & More is part of the December tradition that marks the annual return of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo® in Las Vegas. The Wrangler NFR will return to the Thomas & Mack Center, Dec. 7-16.
Known as the richest and most prestigious rodeo in the world, the Wrangler NFR attracts the top 15 contestants in bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, barrel racing and bull riding to compete for a share of the increased purse and the coveted PRCA Gold Buckle. In 2022, the event had a total attendance of 173,350 over the 10 days of competition at the Thomas & Mack Center and has sold out more than 350 consecutive performances in Las Vegas.
A pilot non‐profit project strives to improve underserved kids’ futures by infusing agrarian life in Detroit. The proposed Detroit Horse Power (DHP) Equestrian Center will provide year‐round programs that offer at‐risk youth a safe and enriching environment to develop life skills, such as perseverance, empathy, responsible risk‐taking, confidence, and self‐control. The initiative will also welcome horses back within the city limits more than 50 years after Detroit passed zoning ordinances prohibiting livestock.
“The Detroit Horse Power Equestrian Center concept addresses two of the city’s persistent problems: the shortage of opportunities in Metro Detroit for neighborhood children and the abundance of vacant land,” says architect Michael Poris, AIA, of Detroit firm
McIntosh Poris Associates. “Our design creates an inclusive, welcoming gathering point for the community and fits the site’s context. We address both human and equine needs in a way that authentically celebrates Detroit’s diversity.”
DHP, which began offering youth summer camps in 2015, leased a vacant 17‐acre site from Detroit Public Schools Community District for the proposed Equestrian Center. McIntosh Poris applied its nearly 30 years of expertise designing buildable projects in Detroit—notably the renovation of Michigan State Fairgrounds, which included a new equestrian center, multi‐purpose barn, and amphitheater. The firm designed the DHP Equestrian Center with an indoor arena that includes offices and
classrooms plus 24 stables. Separate buildings provide storage for hay and waste, away from pedestrian flow. The grounds include an outdoor arena, pastures, and community areas, such as pedestrian paths and a sheltered bus stop.
Since DHP relies on donations and grants for funding, McIntosh Poris will employ a post/frame barn system, creating large, uninterrupted arena space that is cost‐effective to build within the projected budget. To expedite entitlements, the McIntosh Poris team chose to execute a rural‐structure vernacular using common urban materials, such as masonry and metal. The project is currently in the late design and documentation phase. Fund‐raising is on‐going, and the team is preparing for a ground‐ breaking in Spring 2023.
“We achieved the first step toward making the Detroit Horse Power Equestrian Center a reality—leasing the former site of the Paul Robeson Academy,” says DHP founder David Silver, a former elementary school teacher. “We look forward to serving hundreds of high‐need youth year‐round at the equestrian facility, which will also be a source of pride and a gathering place for the community.”
