From the President

Dear FOSH Friends, As the year ends, FOSH and I thank you for your support in 2020. As you hunker down because of the cold weather and pandemic, we hope you enjoy reading this beautiful and informative issue of The Sound Advocate. Our Editor, Stephanie Ruff, created an issue with many facets—from equine hoof health to training to member stories—in other words, something for everyone! My next note of importance is the socalled compromise bill to replace the PAST Act, which is being touted on social media and in various press releases (see pages 7-9 for more information). Upon careful review and analysis, FOSH is firmly opposed to this bill for several reasons--and it should not even be called a compromise as the bill would significantly worsen today’s situation. Not only that, our trusted partners, the American Horse Council, American Association of Equine Practitioners and the American Veterinary Medical Association are opposed to the bill along with 30+ equine organizations. These groups and many others are letting their voices be known in Congress that the bill will not help Tennessee Walking Horses and that they continue to support the original PAST Act. If you have any questions about either bill, please do not hesitate to contact me: President@fosh.

info. Although some equine activities were curtailed this year due to the pandemic, others took place, and we’re happy to share some great stories from our members about their competitive pursuits with their gaited horses—both virtual dressage and distance riding. We also appreciate that these individuals were kind enough to take time to detail their experiences for you to read and feel encouraged about trying something new in 2021 and beyond. To prepare for 2021, we provide training information and ideas from both Larry Whitesell and Wendy Murdoch. Both Murdoch and Whitesell are such excellent communicators of their knowledge, I have a feeling you will find many valuable nuggets of wisdom.

As you think about 2021, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you have any ideas for clinics or other events so we can see about FOSH assisting you. We know that this year’s shutdown scuttled many plans so we look forward to supporting you and your gaited horse friends in 2021.

For the Horse, Teresa

Teresa Bippen FOSH President Tbippen1957@yahoo.com