SWAP FEED FUND

MAKE CREDIT CARD DONATIONS TO THE SWAP FEED FUND... CALL FOSTER FEEDS AT 304-269-1333, TALK TO CHARLIE TO GIVE A DONATION TO THE SECOND WIND ADOPTION PROGRAM FEED FUND, WE GO THROUGH 6 TONS OF FEED A MONTH. YOU CAN ALSO PAY FOR ADOPTIONS AND PURCHASES THIS WAY!!

 
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Stay up with our President/Executive Director, all the directors, volunteers and riders. All the CSS/SWAP supporters and adopters are having a big time sharing stories, pictures, lots of good stuff about their horses. Our President is at her max friends so she is full but we have set up a fan based page so everyone can be added. So sorry to the 2000 + people who have asked for a friendship....  our fan page is now up.

The Wish List of Our Needs:

More than anything we need a large donation to help us pay off our farm, we owe 50k. With a farm paid for, we will never worry about the program and schools closing.

We are looking for 2 to 3 people to work in the barn in exchange for board for their horse and possibly personal board in exchange for part time or full time work/volunteer.

1. New or used truck and 2 to 6 horse trailer, our equipment has seen its better days, we've been using both for nearly 14 years to pick up horses and move them to their new homes.

2. A Farm in any location for low cost long term lease or donation to expand our program to develop a retirement farm for our now aging horses returned to us from adopters who could not retire our horses. Our highest priority locations initially are Virginia, Kentucky, Ohio, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia or Delaware.

3. New or Used Farm utility vehicle (like a john deere gator or mini truck),  farm tractor, & manure spreader

4. Tack and large horse items donated... like carts/buggies, racing bikes, jog carts, harnesses, saddles, horse trailers, blankets/rugs to use or sell on SWAP Shopping. Supplies to use around the barn or office.

5. A bulk feed bin that will hold anywhere from 6 tons to 9 tons of grain donated or at low cost or even a break on the cost of purchase and instillation.

7. Monthly Sponsors for our horse and dogs while they are waiting on their forever homes.

8. Volunteers to commit to doing one fund raiser for SWAP horses at your location during 2011, it can be a golf tournament, a bake sale, book sale, lemonade stand, car wash, setting up an information stand at a horse show. This is a great way to kids to get involved in helping horses.

9 Anyone interested in free high quality top soil (manure already composted) and manure for gardens, you can pick up for free by the truck load at our WV location (bring a loader). If you are a gardener and only need a small amount, pick up in a truck or we'll be selling it by the feed bag full at $2.00 a bag (in a bag that is usually used for 50 lbs of feed). This is beautiful clean top soil.

11. Someone to do dozer work on the farm, level arena/round pen, do terracing on the hill sides to keep water out of the barns and level the top soil and manure pile to increase the level of that land in that bottom so we can put our methane digester in and indoor arena. Volunteer or at a reduced cost.

Reporting Neglect:

Please, if you see neglect (ribs and hip bones showing or no food available), its critical to call the sheriff of the county where the horse/animal is located. Have the address where the horse is located or directions to the farm, pictures and the owners name (if possible). If the sheriff does nothing email PETA's cruelty case workers Stephanie or Tori at sbell@peta.org, or ToriP@peta.org Remember horses can not speak for themselves so we must speak for them!! All reports are kept anonymous.

Getting Help for Your Horses/animals if you can not care for them:

If you can not feed your animals, whether they are horses or other animals, if you are adopters, call SWAP HQ immediately, if not, call your local horse rescue and plead for help, if they are full then call your animal control officer or sheriff to release ownership of your animals so they can get them help Before they are starved to death, do not wait until they are starved, its critical to get help early. Contact us if you do not know what to do. call 304-873-3532 or email secondwindadopt@aol.com. Many counties have pet pantries so you can get feed when times are tough. If things are getting tight with costs, go to a less expensive grain like a simple stock pellet supplemented with corn, according to Ohio State Corn is the leading horse feed in the US according to their research, many large equine schools and large farms feed these all natural feeds because of what they get for the price, a lot of negative stuff has been written about corn but no one can support it with actual proof and research. We feed a simple all stock pellet from southern states and we supplement with cracked corn for those who need more calories, here is the link:

http://ohioline.osu.edu/b

762/b762_7.htm

Crossed Sabers Stable:

Preparing for a Cold Winter:

HAY: Get your hay now before the prices become outrageous, get enough for the winter (good planning is 2 bales for every 3 days for one horse or 10 bales per month per horse, so to make it until the middle of June (first cutting), you're looking at 90 bales per horse at the very least (from September to June). If you have good thick grass that has been mowed and fertilized then depending on where you live in the US you might just need 60 to 70 bales. For good grazing its recommended  that you have 3 to 5 acres of mowed, seeded, fertilized grass per horse. Remember Grass is dead in WV from Oct/Nov until about April and every state has some months where the grass does not give the horses their calories or nutrients it needs to sustain life (USDA has details of that for each state). They may be grazing in the winter but they are not getting anything from the grass to survive. I know most know that but I say it because we had an adopter last year in WV that thought if they were eating grass that was all they needed and she nearly killed 2 horses.

GRAIN: Remember on average horses need 1 lb of concentrated feed (grain) for every 100 lbs of body weight, so on average horses need about 10 lbs of grain a day, more when its very cold or if they are living outside in a run because much of their calories go to keeping them warm. Also older, sick, skinny, stallions, bred mares and young horses take more feed during the winter. Some  horses need more so its critical to watch to make sure their ribs and hip bones are staying meaty and covered. If you see ribs, the horse is too thin and needs more calories, not supplements but more calories, which means more grain.. Easy keepers may be round but it does not mean they are healthy, most easy keepers need a certain amount of calories and a multi vitamin to stay healthy.

WATER: One of the most critical things needed in winter is clean fresh water all the time, anywhere from 5 to 20 gallons per day per horse and everyone knows what a pain that is when there is ice and snow on the ground but its critical to preventing colic and water helps keep the horses body temperature regulated. Get your electric heaters, defrosters now, heated buckets, what ever it takes to make sure they have good water in front of them all the time and at least 10 gallons (2 flat backed buckets per horse at the very least). Here we keep 100 gallons troughs in the stalls since we have big stalls, its much easier than frozen buckets in winter, all we do is break the ice and remove it most days and put a heater in them on really cold days. We use a sump pump to empty water and scrub troughs each week which keeps water fresh and clean. So look for easy ways to keep water thawed out and clean. This is the biggest reason horses die in winter.

SHELTER: Domestic horses need shelter, they are not wild and can not survive outside without shelter or some kind of heavy waterproof rug to keep them warm during snow/ice and freezing temperatures but the best is a closed in shelter that is free from drafts (meaning its closed on all 4 sides with some sort of ventilation). Wild horses first of all don't live very long, living outside in the elements is very hard on them, secondly wild horses move in cold temperatures to keepselves warm and they often times move over thousands of acres to keep warm or to find cover or water. No domestic horse can not do that on 5, 20 or even 100 acres. Just because your horse has learned to survive in bad weather does not mean its good for them, they need shelter in bad weather.

CARE: Its important to make kids take care of their horses but they must have adult supervision on a daily basis to make sure horses are getting what they need. Trust me, I usually have 30 year olds working in our barn and I still have to be there daily to make sure things are done, that they have clean water, especially when its cold because our young helpers want to get out of the weather and then the horses are left at risk for colic. Every day check your child's work, do not leave your horses care to a child (completely), if you do you are asking for trouble.

The  Woman  I will  Be

The perfect analogies for why we have the life school tied into SWAP and animal welfare work:

"Everyone thought we took this broken down horse and saved him but really he saved us"

     Jockey Red Pollard from the movie Seabiscuit

I rescued a human today

Her eyes met mine as she walked down the corridor peering apprehensively into the kennels. I felt her need instantly and knew I had to help her. I wagged my tail, not too exuberantly, so she wouldn't be afraid.

As she stopped at my kennel I blocked her view from a little accident I had in the back of my cage. I didn't want her to know that I hadn't been walked today. Sometimes the shelter keepers get too busy and I didn't want her to think poorly of them.

As she read my kennel card I hoped that she wouldn't feel sad about my past. I only have the future to look forward to and want to make a difference in someone's life.

She got down on her knees and made little kissy sounds at me.
I shoved my shoulder and side of my head up against the bars to comfort her.

Gentle fingertips caressed my neck; she was desperate for companionship. A tear fell down her cheek and I raised my paw to assure her that all would be well.

Soon my kennel door opened and her smile was so bright that I instantly jumped into her arms. I would promise to keep her safe. I would promise to always be by her side. I would promise to do everything I could to see that radiant smile and sparkle in her eyes.

I was so fortunate that she came down my corridor.
So many more are out there who haven't walked the corridors.
So many more to be saved. At least I could save one.

I rescued a human today.

TESTIMONIALS

Saint Theresa's Prayer 
May today there be peace within. 
May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be. 
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. 
May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. 
May you be content knowing you are a child of God. 
Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, 
Dance, praise and love. 
It is there for each and every one of us.

By morgan large, ohio state university

Celeita Kramer, is President and Executive Director of Second Wind Adoption Program. She is a ball of fire and full of energy. SWAP began after Celeita bought a horse off Evelyn Duhr. Evelyn owned Second Wind Farm located in Maryland. Celeita and Evelyn became very close, as Evelyn acted like a mentor to Celeita. Unfortunately, Evelyn died of cancer and her daughter asked Celeita to continue her mother's work. Evelyn's main focus was saving racing Standardbreds from auctions. Celeita then took over the reins and created SWAP. She has now opened SWAP to all breeds from its original Standardbred rescue roots.
It is hard to believe that Celeita was never a horse owner until the age of 40. Before entering the horse world, Celeita was in the United States Army from 1980-2003. She was a PanAm pilot in the South Pacific and test flew UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters. She is also the youngest woman to be inducted into the West Virginia Women's Hall of Fame. Celeita has many accomplishments miles long both in the military and horse industry. Once she got promoted out of her job in the military, she found herself bored and in need of something to do. So as Celeita does, she did something about it. She went and got her graduate degree in equine science and then bought the farm that she currently has Crossed Sabers Stable.
Her average day at her job is quite a full plate for anyone of any age. She wakes up at 6am to return urgent emails and phone calls from horse donors, adopters, and neglect cases. Next, it is time to go to the barn to check on the horses and many other furry critters. She makes sure the employees are on task for the day and all issues anyone has are resolved. Some mornings riders and trainers are at the barn, and Celeita assigns horses to work with or special care that the horses need. She is then back off to the office to do the calls and email routine all over again and work on the website with adding photos and videos of the horses that need homes. As administrator, Celeita has loads of paperwork that needs to be done. She checks up on adopters to see how the placement is going and if there are any issues with them or their horse. She also evaluates new horses as they come into the farm. By this time of day, it is time to feed, do evening turn out, and bring some horses in. In the evening hours, she will check up on a neglect case or file complaints with new neglect cases. She is required to work on an expert witness job that is related to horses and research for lawyers who are doing equine cases. During all this, she still finds time to ride and train during her day.
Her job is all hands on. She is the “IT” lady at the barn. You name it she does it. You can find her stacking hay to holding horses for the farrier. She is also the lady out there doing the hard work of getting adopters and donations to help such a wonderful program.
With her job, she daily sees sick and mistreated horses that come into the program. The positive is that she gets joy out of seeing these horses recover and become placed in wonderful, happy homes. With the help of Celeita, these horses get the chance they deserve at a better life. It is hard to see such great animals in such deplorable condition, and she is glad to help authorities to prosecute the people that do such awful things. Day to day challenges for caring and feeding for so many horses is managing resources and donations. The gap between horses that need help and money available will never meet up. It is an ongoing process that anyone would wish they could find the answer to help fix.
If Celeita would get paid adequately for the work she does, I believe she would be a millionaire but that is not the case. The pay is marginal to just about nothing. She gets to live in a house on a farm that she loves. This is not the job for the person wanting to bring in the bucks, this is the job for a person who works and does what they do for in essence the “love of the game.” It is from the heart every last bit and when it comes down to it, it really isn't about the paycheck at the end of the week is it?
For anyone interested in this line of work, she recommends having another job that will provide for you in the future. She sees her job currently as a great second career. Before jumping into anything, her advice is to save up one year of what it would require to take care of just one horse. Her job is based on faith. If a horse is received, you have to believe that the money and people to take care of them will follow right in tow. She believes a way will be found to help each one of these horses that come into her safe haven.
More onto SWAP and the great work Celeita and her team have done. She is located in West Union, WV. SWAP alone has placed 2,000 horses of 68 different breeds in 47 states and Canada. These are truly amazing statistics. There are currently 18 horses in the program located at the barn and with other horses in foster homes. Still more horses are on a waiting list to come in. Horses are not the only animal that happens to call the farm home. Cats and dogs are also taken in and adopted out. The cost per month is estimated at just under $8,000. Current needs are finding the money to buy grain for the winter. The cost for just grain alone from now until March will cost $4,500. The upcoming winter months and recent recession have not helped getting horses adopted out.
People can help out in more ways than one. SWAP recently had a golf tournament held in Delaware to help raise funds. Volunteer weekends are also held where people come to help out with horses, work around the farm, and just any odds and ends that need done. This is a way for people to come out and show their appreciation for the program and all the hard work Celeita does. The Christmas Adopt-A-Thon is currently underway. It is Celeita's hope to have all of her horses in homes by Christmas, and I believe that is every horses wish that it would come true so they could find their forever home.
Looking back over what all Celeita does and qualities needed for the job is enormous. Communication is key. Communication to law officers, potential adopters, and donors. You have got to be on your “A” game at all times. You have to act professional and educated in all situations no matter what is put in front of you. You are the name that people will associate with your program. Organization and bookkeeping is also needed. Personal qualities for this job is a huge heart of gold and love for all animals. It takes a person that believes in what they are doing and will fight for it to the end. A person for this job has to be confident, courageous, and determined. Not everyone is cut out for this line of work. It truly takes a great person to do such work.
My own ability to take on this job at the moment with my current education in the horse and animal science departments would not be possible. It takes time and years of life and people experience to take on such a task. I would also like to be more educated and maybe pursue a graduate degree in equine science before taking on a job like this.
My personal goals are the same but now makes me want to do what I want even more in the future. I want to pursue my dreams of my first career of a lobbyist for agriculture, find what I love to do to make money, and then one day you may see me in the same shoes as Celeita. I understand that I have time and the world lies ahead of me to do what I want and then one day I could be the saving grace to some horses just like her.
I always kind of knew what Celeita did, the hardships she encountered with funding, and the time she put into her work. This project put it directly in front of me and on a more in depth scale. It was harder than what I once thought. You see her daily work load and you wonder how she keeps so upbeat and happy. You see the horses she gets in the worst condition possible and you think this has to be one of the hardest most heart wrenching jobs in the industry, but what you get out of it is ten fold. It has its positives and negatives just like any occupation. It gave me an already greater appreciation for what she does and to help get the voice out to others for about SWAP.

I hope this picture reminds you of all of your successes and victories. You are helping a LOT of horses and dogs. And yes, Classy and Mistral couldn't get much more pampered than now. If they are out at nite in a summer storm, I will wake up and bring them in as I cant sleep knowing they are out there in it.

Betsy Bailey & The Bailey Family along with Classy and Mistral

Celeita I'm thankful for you and Second Wind...you give these horses a safe haven until their forever home comes along. I hope you get the support you need to continue for many years to come...the service you provide as a placement program and lifetime monitoring system for donors/adopters is priceless. I'm sure that like Ona, there are so many who are grateful that you have placed their beloved animals in caring homes and they can rest assured they will never have to worry about their futures. You'll make sure of that!

I have known this program Crossed Sabers / Secondwind adoption for quite a few years now & have adopted 2 & I am currently placing one in the program (adoption) for life. It took me a while 5 yrs to come to this decision..but I listened to my horse & he wants a rider/partner all to himself…I found the individual but insisted that he be adopted within this particular program. http://www.crossedsabers.com/ sure there are lots of local rescue groups in Texas…but they do not even come close to matching the longevity/expertise in placement/ fostering/adoption that this program does…& this program places horses all over the country with GREAT success. The director is exceptional and experienced and is quite thorough… I encourage you to look thru the website & ask questions of them or of me.  S. Jewell, Austin, TX

it's hard to tell what is true and what is not, but from the things I have seen on some forums, it's just the same ole liars repeating the same old lies. If you really want to know what goes on at Crossed Sabers just click on any of the friends here that volunteer , have adopted or donated horses or who have provided other support. I am actually in contact with the person who donated my most recent adopted horse, Cloud. Can you imagine how heart-wrenching it would be to have to give up your horses? But what if you donate them to a proven rescue/placement instead of selling them to get every last cent from them you could? And what if your horse was adopted into a loving and caring home and the adopter kept in touch with you, providing updates and pictures, and invited you to visit ? Wouldn't that make a difficult situation much better? If you want proof, just look at my picture. Cloud's former owner will always know that Cloud is safe and loved. This is what Celeita and Second Wind is all about. This is reality. Carole Wade, WV

"We all love coming out to CSS and doing whatever we can to help :) Its a totally different experience from most lesson or boarding barns and even from having our own horses..  we learn a lot from Celeita, and from all the different horses that come through here"...

Donna Moore, Volunteer Rider, Trainer and first backer on unbroke horses

Celeita! Keep looking at the success stories! Luckily updates should be coming along to remind you of the good you do. I, for one, owe so much to you for my wonderful horses and dogs- who are all happy and loved and mean the world t...o me. When I was so sick with the brain tumor I swear those horses got me through (well and my family) but when I couldn't take any more I could just sit with them and wrap my arms around their necks. Of course, I couldn't ride but they did not care, they always loved me just the same. They got me through and it's all because of you.

Holly Beauclair, adopter of Petey, Walter, Emma, Lucah and Hershey

Morgan and one of her students after a successful show class with Sugar

aka Pip... one of the many SWAP horses at Pony Pastures in Maryland

I am not alone in thinking that what we do or contribute is so minor compared to what you do on a daily basis for all the animals and people.  You are a shining example of selflessness  - and strength!

Jodi James, SWAP Donor

I agree wholeheartedly! I see it first hand the work Celeita does, and i know many of you who have been honored and i back that up too! thanks everyone! 

Diana, volunteer and employee for SWAP for 10 years

I second that! Celeita has an exhausting job but I know I'm always impressed at how well she does it - and, more importantly, the SWAP horses are all lucky to have her! Maybe we all need to fundraise for a vacation for her though. This has been a tough winter!
Here's to spring,
Angie Macy, SWAP Adopter and Foster

"Having Regal and Rogue become a part of our family has been life changing. We had looked at several websites about adopting horses but none struck us like these two beauties. Celeita has been there to answer my many questions, helped walk me through filling out the application. We checked her site almost daily long after adopting and adopted an older dog that needed a home too. Regal and Rogue, not to mention their mom, dad and sister would not have survived had it not been for SWAP and Celeita fighting the battle to save them; as they do for so many other horses. And I am so thankful they did!"

Tira Runyon (adopter of Regal & Rogue) Lesage, WV

Yes. But what you do accomplish is phenomenal. You are an amazing person, Celeita. For all these years, I have always felt God was with you in this endeavor. He has His hand on SWAP. Even though there have problems over the years-sort of like growing pains-look back at the total picture. He has walked with you every step of the way to protect and love these magnificent creatures. This is your mission. I believe you are called to do this. I am so proud of what you have let God do through you. Just like any missionary. Like in neonatal nursing. Yes, it was a job for me. But it was also a mission for Him. When you take a baby that was a 1-lb micropremie, nurture it, keep it alive, then months later, you can finally allow that little mama to hold her precious child for the first time, there is no better feeling. These are both missions. We are helpers of God in His cycle of life. Thank yourself for what you can do. Don't worry too much about what you can't. Isn't it easy to lose the big picture sometimes? I know I do. Especially as a leader.
 
Paula Burr, adopter of Riddler and Silas in Texas

"i have the best horse in the whole wide world. i really don't know what i would have done if i'd never come out to your place to volunteer. a life of loneliness. that's what it would have been. haha :) he's my best friend. :) ...you're the best!"

Hilary and Dodger

I wish you all well a hope there are better times ahead for everyone.  Thank you again for sending the wonderful emails.  Take care and God Bless to you and the animals.  You're doing such a wonderful thing, please try to keep your business going!

you inspire me, Celeita! Thank you. Paula Floyd

Celeita....just wanted to tell you that even though some of us can't keep horses I really appreciate what you do. It takes a special person to be dedicated like that!  Arthur Suiter

                   Kryssie Francis

                   Linda Wright

                  Cathy Dunne

I've spent several years watching you do good works at Crossed Sabers. Hopefully, I'll be in a position to adopt someday...I keep wishing.

                                                                                                                               Shelley Mund

A very special thank you to you, Celeita for all you have done in your service. You continue to set an example of honor and commitment. Your generosity of time and the sacrifices you have made have continued beyond the military and all of your effort and accomplishments are appreciated! Linda Wright

I would like to take a moment to thank you for your service and for protecting freedom. I do not know you that well Celetia, only through the horse rescue circle of friends. And the more you share with us the more amazing person I find that you are. You ARE a hero in more ways than one. You are an encouragement to women like myself. When times here are getting tough I think what would someone like you do? Thank you for your courage, your wisdom, and your bravery. You are a true Warrior Woman in spirit and flesh, and I thank you. (Now don't go gettin' a big head or anything lol ;P)
Take care, Michelle Kincaid

Michelle, you're going to have me crying if you keep talking like that. that is so nice of you to say. I've been pretty lucky and very blessed. My military duty changed my life so it seems unfair to be thanked for something that I wanted to do and that helped me so much. Honestly my best asset has been that I've never been smart enough to know that I can't do something. Really smart people would not do some of the things I've done but you know how it is when you don't know you can't do it, you just do it. I would give my right arm to go back and do it all again. I had a blast and worked for and with some of the best people. Its hard to see some of these youngsters dying and wish I could be there instead of them. I've lived most of my life and it was a good one but some of these kids don't look to be old enough to be out of their mommas back yard but yet they are fighting and some are dying. I'm sure they were cold last night and were burning up today and most of them lay on the desert floor at night and think of their family and maybe about christmas coming up and its painful to think of those kids that way but they are devoted to our country and our freedom so for them I will thank you.

There is nothing that I have done that you can't not do and so much more. Trust me, I've fallen on my face more than I've succeeded but the important thing is getting up and trying again. Believing will make it so and I promise every goal you write down will come true. Dream Big, life is short, it will fly by so quickly, you have a life's mission and a purpose, a reason you were put on this earth, just look for it as its there and waiting for you, like an apple hanging in a tree just waiting to be picked. Do it and do it in a big way so when you come to the end of your life you can look back and know in your heart that you made a difference.

And don't worry, the last thing I will get is big headed. I know I have a long and distinguished list of limitations and faults but I can only hope my life will not be defined by those things. :)) Now that you've inspired me I'm going to have to do something worthy of such praise. Bless you for giving me my own second wind today. Celeita

i have the best horse in the whole wide world. i really don't know what i would have done if i'd never come out to your place to volunteer. a life of loneliness. that's what it would have been. haha :) he's my best friend. :) and mannn. there would be no sharita without me and my volunteering days. hahahaha you're the best!                     H. Heaster

You are one of those special people who make a difference, one horse at a time. You do such great work

                                                                          Becky Richards

Celeita,

I read this as I do all of the newsletters you send out; this horse's condition really made me very upset and sad. I am so relieved that someone has offered to care for this animal and I hope he makes a full recovery.

When we rescued Belle, the TB mare we then turned over to you, her entire hind leg was swollen to the point that she could not bend her leg to walk. Her lymphpogitis was totally untreated. But, as you know, she recovered and lived in a great home loved until she passed on.

I think what you all do is wonderful and without this organization thousands of horses would most likely be in slaughter houses or dead. I wanted to know if you knew how Dunanor was doing, and to let you know that Oliver, our friesian is doing wonderful. My parents were able to work out their finances and all four horses are boarded at a stable 5 minutes from their home. I get to visit every weekend.

I just wanted to say thank you for your work.

Octavia Schramm

Celeita --

I have been just tickled to receive the almost weekly updates from 
Pony Pastures about Pippi.  I hope the lady who got Janie is equally 
pleased. 

Thank you again for all you have done.  I have just come from a family 
meeting with my brother and father, and it has been decided that we 
are going to have to put my mother into a nursing home.  Her 
Alzheimer's has progressed to a point where I just cannot cope any 
more, and it is becoming more and more a strain on my husband, and 
especially my teenaged daughters.  So sad.  However, I certainly may 
take you up on your offer to get my application in so that I can adopt 
one or more of your horses in the future.  To tell you the truth, with 
my mom leaving my home, it does feel very strange to stare at my empty 
barn and pastures.  I have owned a horse all my life, and I still 
identify as a horse owner, even though no horses currently are in my 
barn.

Thank you for being such a lifesaver for me when I really needed one.  
Your organization is such a blessing.

Jann

"Celeita, you are truly an amazing woman...I've enjoyed reading all about your military past...quite a switch to what you are doing now."
Allison

"Hi Celeita, thank you so much for the message about BB he was a very special boy and  when I told Armand and  Mark they were remembering showing him and that brought smiles to their faces.  RIP BB.  Please send my love to his family.  So Glad to hear Aztec is well and  is taking care of little kids, I love it.   I couldn't imagine kids riding him in his younger days!!!!   I love to look at your facebook and web site I wish we lived closer to each other. xxxx Jane"

"God bless Omnibus, cant believe I've known you at least 9 years and some
Celeita!!  Your amazing... Jane"

Subject: Bonnie's Boy :(

Hi Celeita
Jane told me about BB this morning, we were very sad to hear that but so happy
that thanks to you guys he had a great life after us.... what a lovely horse he
was. You do a wonderful job with these animals... xxxx
Alison
--------------------

Re: Bonnie's Boy :(

Celeita
Thank you so much for the update.... I had wondered about Heaven as I had not
heard from Rhonda - she usually sent me a card each Christmas. I could not have
been happier with her placement - it gave me such joy to know that she was
helping someone else and being cared for beautifully in return.  I must send her
a note....
Don't worry , you are the first call on our list when we are looking for a place
for a horse and/or our friends' horses.  It is a great system that you have...
I hope that you are well and I enjoy reading your updates on facebook
Thanks again,
Love
Alison xx
 

"We've been getting the emails from Cross Sabers Stables for a while. We have
two horses and my daughter is interested in training horses when she gets out of
college. We are really impressed with the work Cross Sabers does."

                        Shawn Walker

"Great Photo's!  SWAP is a WONDERFUL foundation!"
                        Penny Michaels

"Thank you so much for friending me on here. I adopted a QH mare from SWAP about
4 years ago and her and I have become inseparable :) She has turned out to be an
amazing girl! (Skip April 15- "April' was her name) there are some photos on her
under my photos."

                                            Meredith Gilmore

 i love SWAP...my friend got 2 horses from there...they were amazing

                                            Amanda Shotts

Candace:

"I admire what you do and want to thank you."
 

from Rebecca:

"You are awesome keep up the good work!"
 

from Merryl:

"Let me know you got the first part of this.  SJ has lots of rails and time
faults.  I had a clean round.  10 efforts and I only had two not-so-great fences
but Disney bailed me out and we were clean and clealr!  Open Divisions with
Professionals and Amateurs. My Trainer was 1st (on another client's horse) with
a 19!  Another Professional was 2nd with a 25.  Disney and I were 3rd with a 26! 
I was/am in Heaven.  I got a 26 on dressage test and had good SJ.  Next weekend
I will do a XC Schooling at a local farm and the following is my first full
Event!  You do realize that you were instrumental in this.  If I couldn't find a
good home for Zephyr, I would not have gotten Disney. 

from Joyce M. Kuhlman

"Amen to that. Bless you Celeita for all you do. It's  people like you that make
life worth while. Bless those who can't help themselves like the (4 legged
kind)!!!"
 

to Celeita and all at SWAP...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0c3gA76uPQ
 
This is a gem. Clinton Hammond on the fiddle and Garnet Rogers tells the story of his song "small Victories" and then sings it ...
trust me it is awesome and spot on all
for all of us Horse rescuers
 
with Love
 

Peace and Blessings,
 
Aminah

some of you know i lost my farm livestock and breeeding stock last year.
Ziva is our new seed of peace and prosperity and HOPE
 

I just had to put in my time on the soap box when I read these two wonderful posts.  Although it has not been horses that have been a problem in my life (at least not for me as yet,) there are still too many people in the world who fit into one of two rather despicable categories:  1.  Breeders too greedy or too lazy to consider the welfare of the animals they are sending into the world; and 2. People who grow tired of the animals they own and decide to just "forget the whole thing" and make those animals the problem of some other person.

Celeita, I just wanted to say that I like your website and also to thank you for what you doing. I've seen the most horrible abuse against horses. It's beyond comprehension. Bless your heart for doing what you do. I pray that God will continue to bless your efforts. ida
 

Thank you Lisa, I do appreciate knowing that the people who have actually worked with us, either adopting, donating or volunteering do actually know us, unlike the people on this forum. There are some bad people out there but we try to just stay focused on the horses and what we can do for them and not worry about the rest, though its hard when many of your closest friends are getting emails like this and from a pro slaughter person to boot. I knew it was never going to be a popularity contest but more a position of responsibility to the horses and if they could talk I know they would be singing our praises. That is the only thing that concerns me and that our friends, adopters, donors and volunteers understand who we really are. After 23 years in the military and another 10 in the defense industry and as a pilot for PanAm, I personally think its time that I should be able to work for myself and choose my own boss (the horses). I know our success has made many people mad and now they are happy we are struggling so I'm hopeful we can be successful again just to prove them wrong. LOL and to keep being able to help these horses that so badly need us. The people that are complaining need to start their own programs and do this work and then they would realize what a task it is to keep 30 to 50 horses cared for with no regular consistent money coming in but I have a feeling they don't have the guts to try. Our place is not perfect and certainly I have never considered myself perfect but our heart is in the right place and we work like crazy to do the right thing for the horses and for our clients (adopters/donors/volunteers and supporters). Awe, I'm not going to let it bother me, if people who know us, know us then those people do not affect us at all, they only make us smarter and more motivated to fight through the tough times.  Its nice to know we have people that do know us and appreciate what we do. Thank you. I'm very sorry you were subject to such antics. Celeita

You know Celeita, I'm sure I speak for All of your adopters, but since I've had two of your horses, I have nothing but praises for your program and the care that your horses are given.  The two that I have are well-mannered and very healthy and the best boys.  I couldn't have bought them from someone with any more assurance.  Heck, if I had the room, I'd definitely take two more! 
I always tell my husband this, but the state park that is located beside our property (Watters Smith State Park) used to have a riding stable until it was closed some time before we moved in.  It has an old barn and LOTS of pasture.  I would love to start a riding program there, but my reservations are people interacting with the horses.  I think folks would not give the horses the respect they deserve, especially in those situations.  I could imagine a lot of your horses being very content there.  But, its only a dream, but a thought.  Good luck.  My thoughts and prayers are with you and your program.
 
Penny

I just wanted to tell you I follow your site pretty religiously. I had horses for during all of my teenage years and miss it tremendously. I'm now pregnant and hope to give my daughter what my mom gave me, the special partnership and friendship only offered with horses.

I'm in Argentina till next spring and only wish there was a program like this here. It's a country full of horses but sadly many are not well taken care of and I've not been able to find any adoption programs, the concept just doesn't exist here.

I will be checking you out once we get settled back in the States (hopefully NC) and in the meantime I've put a link to your site in my website even though I'm in Argentina and will put one in my horse blog as well.

Keep up the wonderful work!

Thanks, Celeita

I hope your LA horses are safe.  I have two stalls open here in case they need to evacuate, though it’s a long ride.  I don’t know what their aftermath situation will be.  I suspect they got hit hard.  Damn.

Your “executor” page is amazing.  You’re an amazing woman.  I hope you produce videos of some sort, horse or other related.  Or, a web page for your training ideas.  You have more worldly experience by your young age than most folks by the time they pass onto more heavenly pastures.  I believe you have a tremendous wealth of knowledge and earthly wisdom to impart and it’d be a shame not to share it.  You’re a wonderful leading example for women that anything can be accomplished with courage and determination.

When you’re ready for a vacation I’d love to have you come visit here.  I have enough bedrooms that you will have a room of your own and the “herd” can double up.  Attached is a picture of the kitchen I designed for the apartment attached to the house.  I have a guest room in it with your name on it J.  You’re a special woman, Celeita.  What you’re doing for horses is amazing.  I forward your auction info to the horse group I’ve started here “Collier Trail and Saddle Club” and to members on the East Coast of Florida who are members of larger groups.  I wish I had more money now to spend on Zahara.  I’ve had to invest in the kids and their Dad.  They were falling through the cracks and bordering on being split up and sent to foster care and adoption because of lack of support and finances.  Now they’re getting close to being reunited…I hope.

Take care,

Elizabeth

Elizabeth, Your such a sweetheart. You always give me my own second wind, right when I need it.

Its a great thing you are doing for kids..... they do often get lost in the shuffle, much like horses.

Dear Celeita Kramer,
Thank you for the tours of your facility.  I am very
impressed with your program.  As you know my first
visit was mid summer just after you had received a
ship of rescues horses.  Those poor animals were so
skinny and miss treated that it was amazing that any
of them would survive.  The next trip was late summer
then early winter, at that time the "rescues horses"
looked fat and shiny.  These horses are a walking
testament to your program.  Only with great care and
love can animals in such horrific condition turn
around so quickly.
I was also impressed with the cleanliness of the barn
and quality of your feeding program. 
As you know I have ridden and competed in dressage for
a number of years.  And due to the fact that I was a
career Naval Officer I have seen many barns and
stabling situations, and I can assure you that yours
is near the top.
Sincerely yours
Captain B.E.Jones, Ret. USNR

Dear Celeita,

    I hope this email reaches you.  I happened to call you today not knowing anything about you, your farm or adoption program.  I happened to be viewing the Petfinder website.  Upon discovering your phone number at that point, I picked up the phone and called before doing my homework.

    After having more time this evening to explore your wonderful website, I must admit how embarrassed I now feel not knowing at the time I was speaking to "THE CELEITA KRAMER".  I was intrigued reading your bio.  What an astounding person you are and in all that you have accomplished!  How amazing!  You are to be commended for all your hard work not only with your love of animals but with your civilian and military career as well.

    I can appreciate your love of animals.  I too love them dearly.  My
favorites are dogs and horses.  I have had dogs all my life and currently have three.  Even though I have never owned a horse, I have always admired them and would ride every chance I got.

    I appreciate your time in reading this email and would very much love hearing from you any suggestions. 

Sincerely,
Susanne Wills

realname: Eileen Gray
url:      www.horsetown.org/eileen
city:     O neals
state:    CA
country:  USA

comments:

Good things come to those who wait :-)
I am sending a $ donation today. God bless your rescue efforts!!!

Bravo, Thank you Eileen. I guess you noticed... we really need donations now. Thank you!

Below is the result of your feedback form.  It was submitted by
tia greca (tiagreca@comcast.net) on Sunday, February 05, 2006 at 20:24:49

Message: I stumbled across your website and I must say that I am over come by emotions. The best and worst page of 2005, especially the worst brought me to tears. Seems that everything beautiful humans touch.. we ruin, destroy and hurt. Thank you for such a wonderful page. Your 2006 resolutions were so heartfelt.. if I can live by one of those.. I shall be a much happier person. No matter what.. keep up your good works, you shall be rewarded.
Sincerely, Tia Greca

Grande amoureuse des chevaux, je ne peux que vous féliciter de ce que vous faites. Grace a vous, des centaines de chevaux retrouvent un foyer et de l'amour. Bravo!!
J'espère que vous continuerez pendant encore longtemps.
Avec tout mon respect,
Camille Marcon, Nîmes, France

Here is the translation:
"Being a true horse lover, I would like to congratulate you for what you do. Because of you, hundreds of horses find a home and love. Congratulations !!
I hope you'll keep on going for a long time.
With all my respect,
Camille Marcon, Nimes, France"

Thank you for all you do for these horses! I would love to have a fundraiser for you soon. Keep up the great work, you are awesome!
Susan Grause
Loveland, OH USA - Monday, January 23, 2006 at 08:24:46 (EST)

Outstanding work you all do! Keep it up. I've been checking in on your site about every evening for quite sometime. Looking for a pair of beginners for the girls.
Jim Moore
Sistersville, WV USA - Sunday, January 22, 2006 at 22:49:18 (EST)

i think this work is wonderful i love to see how you have transformed the horses through time keep up the good work!!!!
hayley Ironsidde
aberdeen, scotland - Tuesday, January 03, 2006 at 12:09:09 (EST)

Great site! Your work is wonderful with trying to help find homes for the horses, and the educational resources. Keep up the great work! Sharon www.coolfitwear.com
Sharon
Sewickley, PA USA - Sunday, December 11, 2005 at 03:29:34 (EST)

THIS IS THE FIRST TIME I AM READING YOUR WEB-SITE I THINKS ITS GREAT LOVE TO SEE HOW THE HORSES WERE BEFORE AND THEN THE AFTER PICTURES. THOSE HORSES ARE LUCKY TO HAVE PEOPLE LIKE YOU. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
gracie girl
fresh meadows, ny USA - Friday, December 09, 2005 at 18:41:37 (EST)

Wonderful site. I've been visiting this site sense I was about 12. I'm only 16 now, but I've been coming here for four years. It's a daily check in for me. You're doing a wonderful job with these horses. It's very impressive! You really do change the lives these horses might face if they had never come to you. It's a gift, from God. Never give up, he will provide as it is needed. I hope your winter hay comes in without any problems. Kaitlin Nova Scotia ,Canada.
Kaitlin
NS Canada - Tuesday, October 25, 2005 at 15:31:42 (EDT)

What ya'll are doing is amazing, your program is truly God sent! Thank you! I hope to be in a position to adopt in the coming months. I learned of your organization from the article in the Ladies Home Journal. I have been around horses my entire life, I don't remember not having horses in my life. My dad is a retired farrier and I grew up barrel racing, competing in HS Rodeo and then onto College Rodeo. Keep up the good work and again God Bless you!
Misty Bishop
Lakeland, Fl USA - Sunday, October 16, 2005 at 11:24:44 (EDT)

Wow- so much to look at that I've been here for several hours and still have marked it to come back!!! You've really peaked my interest in adopting. I have just "rescued" two horses from someone who did not properly care for them and am too busy right now figuring out how to be a horse owner to adopt at this present time, but will definitely consider it in the future. I am a first time owner so I am not very knowledgeable about horses-YET!- but "Po" & "Chili" are great teachers. I loved your information on the clinics and would like to attend your beginners class! Also, I especially loved the clear, concise descriptions of the horses with the beautiful pictures- it would really help anyone narrow it down who was thinking of adopting. It is so wonderful to know there are people in this world with a heart for animals like all of you! Thanks!!!
Pamela Garnica
Blythewood, SC USA - Wednesday, October 12, 2005 at 23:40:48 (EDT)

WOW spent an hour on her site last night. I'm impressed. She sure has come a long way since she opened back in 96. My how time does fly. Her mission has changed from what she  started out to do, the adoptions were just a small part of her original program but my how she has focused. A gold star for Celeita

Great Web site, Keep up the great work!!
bluett jones
Cuba, NY USA - Wednesday, October 12, 2005 at 21:30:31 (EDT)

Isabella and Jerry Restani

8903 Voula Lane

Wilton, CA 95693

Re:  Second Wind Adoption Program and our Horse Turnberry Scott “Turner”

As you can see from our address we live in California, a long way from West Virginia.    I first learned about the Second Wind Adoption Program thru our Cleveland Bay Horse Chat Group.  Many of the CB owners have used this program to adopt horses for both riding and breeding purposes.  It was said that this program gives honest descriptions and evaluations of listed horses and that there were not hidden surprises but that the application process scarred some of the CB members because of its length and detail. 

I went on line, looked at the listings of horses and then went to the application part.  Initially it seemed overwhelming until you really looked at it and realized that no you did not have to be an artist to draw your facility and to explain the questions asked about horse care.  I think that this is a good application because only those sincere will take the time to go through the entire process.  The cost of adopting the horses is very reasonable.  Of course if you live close by it is down right cheap!   We found the horse perfectly suited for our needs.  Celeita and staff kept in constant communication and did not misrepresent any detail about this horse.  Our goal for this horse was to have our 10 year old granddaughter show and jump him.  We were able to call the barn and speak directly with the staff that had hands on riding and working with our boy Turner, and we were able to get a feel for him and for his attitude.  Even after the first transport that we booked canceled, we were able to have their staff provide exercise for our horse until the next transport could be arranged.  I paid all fees using Pay Pal which was very convenient for me.  Because we live in California and adopted a large 17h TB which required a stall and a half the cost was $1500. to transport so combined with the adoption fee of $900.00 the total cost of our horse was $2,400.00.  A cheap cost for what we got!!  The program provided our horse with all necessary paper work and even included a halter for transport, things couldn’t have been easier.

Turnberry Scott “Turner” arrived at midnight with his complete file and documentation of owner history, staff evaluations, medical records etc.  We were happy to find out that his previous owner wanted communication with us.  We have been chatting over the Internet on a weekly basis.  It was also nice to see that this horse had a value placed on him by the owner because of his extensive training much greater than we ever expected.  His training background proved true as stated.  He knew dressage but went of an actual foxhunt as well as competed in hunter/jumper events.  We have truly found a horse that not only shows but also is sweet and gentle and can be trail ridden for pleasure.  My friends were non supportive of this adoption and were of the opinion that anything up for adoption must be trouble and can’t be trusted.    They are now eating their words and we are smiling from ear to ear.  Thank you Second Wind for providing the facility for adoptee and adaptors to unite.

Sincerely,

Jerry and Isabella Restani

Hi Guys,

I've enjoyed your website...I have been involved with Standardbreds for around 13+ years now and supporting rescue/rehoming retired Standardbreds for the past several years. As I read through your website I noticed Evelyn's name. I though you might enjoy knowing the whereabouts of 2 of Evelyn's 'adoptees'.

Over 10 years ago we adopted 2 horses from her. One became my beloved and cherished partner in all things - a little on the snarky side when we got her (to put it nicely <G>) this horse eventually became my everything. It was with incredible pain that we buried her last year when she died a natural death in her late 20's.  It still doesn't seem right that she is gone - we jumped event courses, drove in harness, even won placements in large western pleasure classes. I cried on her mane and laid on her back just thinking sometimes. She was my conspirator one Halloween as we dressed up and reenacted the Headless Horseman. Everyone still remembers the Christmas parade where a giggling cheerleader stuffed a pompom in her face - she never broke stride, just grabbed it, chewed on it a bit then spit it out with an audible "PPPTHEW!" much too the hysterical laughter of everyone along the sidelines....that probably best fits her personality!  I can't even begin to count the miles we covered just meandering along trails.

The second horse became the family favorite and my husband's trusted trail horse. He is still with us today, a dappled bay who is enormously spoiled and unbelievably trusting and willing to do anything you ask him. He too is a bonded part of our family and will remain with us for the rest of his life. He has carried young children on trails, jumped courses with my then teenage sister, and competed in barrel races with my husband. He didn't even object to the big red bow and Santa hat he was outfitted with for several area Christmas parades one year. A friend of ours in 'farrier school'  asked to practice on him and was astounded when he picked up his own hoof and stretched it out in mid-air, then looked back as if to say "Well? Are you going to shoe it or gawk?". Today he mostly enjoys a periodic trail ride and badgering guests for handouts. He can hear a carrot being snapped in half all the way inside and WILL be waiting at the gate for it when you get out there! And he is teaching a 2nd generation about horses with my God-daughter.

Anyway - I will cheerfully babble on forever and plague you with photos about our beloved horses. *LOL*  But knowing how much I LOVE knowing how a rescued adoptee has fared, I thought you might especially enjoy knowing these two were wonderfully placed and still very much loved. If it hadn't been for Evelyn we would never had had these two and I can't imagine life without them now.

Take care and best wishes for the continuing wonderful work you are doing!!

Kady

Your program is a very worthwhile cause and very highly regarded by many people who aren’t even affiliated with it.  Thank you for finding Country a good home.

Jen

I had a chance to go through your site at length Celeita.

My ignorance astounds me; I never knew.

It makes me feel better to be a member of a human race that includes people like you and the other members of SWAP.

My hat is off to you and my heart goes out to you. I wish you all the best of luck.

I loved your poetry on your front page and I've seen the pictures of the facility on your gallery page. I can see and feel your happiness.

God bless,

Pat Turner

Patrick Turner
PT Digital Studios

Hey Pat,  I know isn't it amazing. Of course, that is only a hand full of our rescues, we've had close to 90 now but many of those were from two large ones. One with 42 horses and one with 31 horses all at once. The rest have been horses that prosecuting attorneys have taken from people and some even went to jail (yea). I wish I would have taken pictures of all of them when they arrived at our barn but some were so bad I couldn't stand looking at them, just was thinking about getting them fed and cleaned up as most are covered in lice. Its all very sad but its wonderful to be able to turn them around and see them go to a great home like Meg did. Some of our adopters and fosters have been big parts of helping us do that. Its the most expensive work and it will break your heart daily but its also the most rewarding. I'm glad to know people are going to that page so they understand what a change can take place with good care and some of those "after" pictures were just taken 6 months after the "before" so it doesn't take long. In about a year, they can be back to 100%. Celeita

Dear Second Wind,

I just want to let you know that I am always still looking at your site.  I
wish that I could afford more than the one horse that I have,  but having her in a boarding situation is extremely expensive.

My reason for this e......that poem "Baggage" is wonderful.  It brought
tears to my eyes,  and I couldn't help but equate it with my mare.  17yrs old and sold and resold..etc...etc..sold, because as she has grown older, her capabilities have also grown older. Well, I'm here to tell anyone that will listen...I have grown older too.  My capabilities are not what they were at 20, 30, or even 40! I have been through a divorce,  support myself (on not a lot of money).  But,  my animals, NO MATTER WHAT will NOT go anywhere. And it burns me to see horses adopted from your site and in months or maybe a year returned.  Oh what a throw a way society we have become. Divorce...baloney....your animals are the ones that can get you through the tough times....find a way. Fancy clothes,  I have none,  fancy truck,  I have none, fancy food,  I eat none.  Find a way!

Name withheld

Best of 2011

-Foster Mom of the Year, Lydia Millner, we didn’t have a lot of horses in foster homes this year but Lydia was so different from most fosters who want a certain horse or a certain capability and only want it for the summer. Lydia called and offered to help by taking any horse for the winter, now that is a foster mom that all programs dream about having. Someone who is more concerned about helping any horse in need than thinking of themselves she even paid to ship him to her place, what selfless devotion to helping a horse that would have never had a chance without us and her. Lydia is fostering Aargon for the winter and is focusing on helping him become an even better horse, he’s not just going there and sitting in a field, she’s handling him every day and this will end up really helping this horse find a great home and help him be success in that home. I would give my right arm to have more fosters like her.

-Adopter Update of the Year, Pony Pastures along with all their students that are our adopters!! What can you say, with all their SWAP horses and many of their students with our horses and all the pictures we get all through the year on facebook… we have no doubt what a great home they are all in. Nothing like constant updates, we love it and the pictures of the kids and horses are priceless. We are so thrilled to have found Pony Pastures, they have become a SWAP East helping us find horses homes and putting the word out about our work. What great adopters, every one of them.

-Best All Around Volunteer, Ellen Mitchell, Esq.…. Anyone who will drive 12 hours one way about every 3 months to spend a weekend to clean stalls and troughs and sit all day helping with inventory in the SWAP store, plus donating funds to the feed fund, donating stuff for the SWAP store, donating her legal expertise on different issues deserves much more than this recognition. Ellen has gone above and beyond the call of duty and asks nothing in return but the chance to help a horse in need. We are so praying to keep her around for a long time and begging for more like her this year!!

-Best Fund Raisers of the Year, Delaware Harness Racing Golf Tournament for SWAP, the Ring Raffle Sponsored by Faye York and The Donor Challenge by Sherry Galt and all the donors that accepted her challenge. We can thank these three fund raisers for our continued existence. The golf tournament paid for all of our hay, the Ring Raffle paid the farm mortgage for 10 months and the Challenge continues to help us pay for feed, farrier, vet and monthly expenses. Shew, what do you say to people that saved your life and the lives of so many animals that we helped this year and the years to come. Reminds us all to have the faith of a child that there are good people out there that really care and when help is so badly needed, help comes when you’re heart and work is in the right place.

-Best All Around Supporters: We had so many that helped this year that its hard to pick out of handful but Dale Ames, David Ferrell, Jim Gerchow, Chip Copper, George & Tina Dennis along with so many from Delaware Harness Racing, Faye York, Sherry Galt, Carole and Clint Wade, Peggy Breakiron, Gene Swansey, Sara Gauer, Kaitlyn Snodgrass, Diana Greenhalgh, Donna Moore, McKinzi Straub, the Swisher Family that brings us all our hay, Foster Feeds, all those transporters that kept our horses safe on the road …..these folks have made all the difference in the world in the programs operation...

-Donor of the Year, Quang Hua and Vietopia Restaurant of Houston bought $5000. worth of raffle tickets for the ring raffle… no matter how hard I wished they would have won, they didn’t and I was heartbroken but they made the ring raffle a success and kept the farm running for another year. Wishing we could do something special for so many that have given so much in money and time.

-Presidents Award, Diana Greenhalgh,  Years of working at Second Wind, doing whatever needed to be done for over 11 years now but this year with Celeitas injury Diana was at the farm every day to make sure the horses were cared for, she was the one that came daily to pack and wrap Sonny’s feet, cleaning up after dogs and doing all the things that Celeita could not do for over 3 months, she was the one that covered the operation when Celeita had to have surgery or be gone all day at the VA hospital. There is no way we could have ever paid her for her time, gas money and for all the work she did this year. It was a hard year on everyone, the volunteers were tired and worn out with Celeita’s injury it put a strain on the whole operation, many just stopped coming to help. Diana was the only one coming to help consistently even when Celeita was begging for help from anyone. The program and the critters owe her so much, so much more  than we’ve ever been able to give her for her devotion and dedication to the animals in our care.

-Life Time Achievement, Rhonda Ross was a longtime friend, adopter and supporter of Second Wind. She spent a lifetime of loving horses but her life was shortened from diabetes, which first took her sight, then took her kidney of which she got a transplant. She always talked about SWAP to her family and friends, she had dreams of being a professional horse woman and dreams of showing and competing, even dreams of doing what we do here at SWAP. Unfortunately all those things had to be put aside for Rhonda to fight for her life, which she did for many years and then her poor heart could not handle all the stress any more. Rhonda was really an inspiration because she took great care of 2 SWAP horses, riding both as well, proving a good relationship with a horse and respect will compensate for strength in the rider. I saw her ride the first time, already legally blind and had already had the transplant. It was one of those times when you think, I have no excuses, if she can ride that well, I should be able to do anything. She was riding horses that many able bodied riders could not, she showed us anything is possible, it just depends on how badly you want it and she wanted to ride badly. Rhonda lost her battle this year and sent all her horses to SWAP plus told her family she wanted all her horse stuff to come to us. Even in her death she was thinking about helping horses. She was a precious delicate gift to horses and to us, she is so desperately missed by all who knew her.

-Most Dedicated Vet, Dr. Shannon Loomis along with Marla, her vet tech.. this year was such a tough year for Second Wind, we had to put down more animals in one year than all the past 15 years total. Dr Loomis and Marla helped us make good decisions about animals in pain and about our toughest welfare decisions because we never got into horse/dog adoption to put animals down. When you have feet and legs falling apart, illness so bad that the horse is hurting itself, legs breaking down so badly that it takes 4 people to trim the horse, horses sloughing their hooves from poor care, excessive seizures that we could not stop, then we are forced to consider what is humane. We expect people to dump horses here when they don’t want to put them down, and when they are old and lame, when they have not been fed or cared for but its never easy when we can’t fix the problem or help them. We’ve realized that ending the pain, pain we never caused is the most humane thing we can do. To be there for them, to put them down where they were loved and cared for, to do it humanely with lethal injection and bury on the farm is the best answer. Shannon, Marla and Audubon always handled these animals with care and compassion and they were there for the SWAP staff, knowing how painful those decisions are to us.  Many of them we had had in the program for many years, following them through years of homes and then allowing some of them to live out any good life they had left in the Old Timers Sanctuary until they were in so much pain and could barely walk or barely get up. We hate the whole thing but as a rescue we have to find a way to give horses relief, relief from past injuries, from serious illness, from damage done from past owners. We are always attacked for all our decisions, regardless, attacked by people who think we should put the horse down at the first sign of an issue and also attacked by those who feel that you never put any horse down regardless, that they should always die on their own from natural causes so the attacks and outside opinions make things even worse and its already a very painful situation because we love the animal. Dr. Loomis made this so much easier, reminding us that quality of life is a major consideration, as is the horses safety and survival. I know I will think of these animals for the rest of my life, but I know we made the right decisions for each with the knowledge and experience of our veterinary team. 

-Directors Award, Michael Asthalter, Michael has been a long time friend to SWAP as an adopter, donor, foster, transporter, advisor and even checking out new homes when he delivered horses to their home but this year he returned to Germany because of the limited opportunities in the horse industry in the US. The decision all started with the death of his beloved wife Zorana Ristic, a veterinarian that always gave us free advice and supported our operation completely for many years. We miss Michael and it was a huge loss to SWAP, he was a meticulous transporter and worker, his knowledge of horses is unmatched and being German he was always kind but always honest, even when it was something we didn’t want to hear. We hope that his home land will give him all the opportunities for great work that he longs for.

-Vice Presidents Award, Alan Macy in Indiana, We all lost a great animal advocate when we lost Alan Macy to cancer. He and Angie have been adopters, volunteers, fosters, rescue assistance and emergency transport for Second Wind since the late 1990’s while helping Angie care for their 20 + equine, dog and cat family and two kids. Alan was what most horse women would call a loveable puppy dog, he was always ready to do whatever was needed to be done and had the patience of a saint. He was a good man, husband, father and animal lover. This is a small tribute to his years of selfless work to help animals and care for animals. Sorely missed does not describe the huge loss to the animals and to his family.

-Most Dedicated Riders, McKinzi Staub and Donna Moore, what a year we had, seems like every horse came to us untrained, unhandled, crazy from mishandling, uncastrated, completely herd bound. At times I was starting to think I was getting too old to take the really hard rescues. None were completely starved but all of them needed training. McKinzi and Donna were ready to take on any problem they had, from mounting issues to just never being trained or handled. They were becoming old pros at putting new horses under saddle and most of the horses we found homes for this year was because we had these two ladies and their gentling talents to bring horses along so they could be adopted and be successful in the home. Donna brought McKinzi on board and McKinzi brought her college church group to volunteer as well so they are much more than a couple of riders/trainers… they are two caring young ladies who really want to help animals. Kudos!

-8 years of Service, Aldine Hart... Wow!! What a work history. For many years Aldine was the barn and farm manger, then he retired but has continued to help us with farm maintenance, building, fixing, mowing, weed eating, fence repairs and walking the miles of fence lines, helping us stay up on stalls and even horse care on occasion. He’s been a trooper for so many years and such a great dedicated, honest worker that always does his best work.

-Adopter of the Year, Dr. Sherry Galt of TX, at first we thought Sherry was going to be just another great adopter, keeping her horse beautiful, good about doing her updates, then she was given a professional award and she could either take a donation to a program of her choice or take an extended vacation in the Bahamas. She had her award sent to us. She always got our newsletter and stayed in touch when we started struggling because of the economy Sherry’s challenge kicked in, getting several others donating monthly to the mission to match her donation, she also put $3500. Into our feed fund this winter, nearly paying our winter feed bill for the horses. How do you ever pay someone back for that kind of support and how do you thank them? We have no clue but she is certainly adopter and donor of the year all in one. She deserves so much more. We’ve seen some real heroes step forward this year and make a big difference in the horses lives and we have all been sleeping much better, not having a fret over feed and care for the horses. Outstanding dedication to helping the ones who cannot help themselves. Bravo!!

-Groom of the Year, Sara Gouer, Our bathing, clipping, grooming, spit shining geru... she goes all day taking horses to the wash stall making them all looking marvelous! We’ve not found anyone who enjoys this more and does quite the job she does when it comes to spit shining up a dog or horse. The animals love her for it too.

-Animals Best Friend, Jean Kruse of WV Jean runs our county Spay Neuter Program, of which all the SWAP small animals went to but she has been instrumental in helping dogs and cats that need help…. even horses too, does transports, pick ups, placements, tracking down abandoned/stranded animals and dogs that have landed in shelters by mistake, takes in animals and finds them homes, helps us get our dogs placed into homes too, she is an animal’s best friend for sure and its so nice to finally see someone in our own county step up and do something for animals besides us and Donna Francisco!

-Adopters with the Best Horse Pictures: Amanda Rockower with Fior in PA, The Stouts with Ebony in WV, The Riehl’s with Banner in Indiana, Betsy Bailey and the Bailey family with Classy and Mistral in VA, Marissa St. Clair with Melody and LilBit in Maryland, Morgan Crabbs with Ren and several SWAP horses in Maryland, Alexandra with Zahara in Florida, Kim Stark with Country Lane in Oklahoma, Wendal and his human family in Arkansas and Pat Pape in Texas. This is always a hard choice, all these folks send the best pictures of them and their horses, when things are hard here and we’re really struggling, we turn to these pictures as a critical reminder as to why we work so hard for no money, why we struggle, why we continue even though we have sleepless nights worrying over horses, why we ignore the BS on the forums being written by people we helped put in jail for horrific neglect or people that abused their horses and even the ones we didn’t approve their applications for dishonesty or extreme selfishness… these pictures serve such an important purpose to us, not only in fulfilling the adoption contract and letting us now the horse is safe but also that all important reminder that some people do really care and it’s so badly needed.

-Biggest Transformation in Horses: You expect rescues to go through a huge transformation, certainly Aargon comes to mind, going from a dangerous jerk to a sweet easy going confident pony in training but also watching Morgan Crabbs and Ren go from a well cared for TB with a wonderful beginning to a big beefy competitor jumping big in big shows was a sight to see. Also Cortez has turned into a fit, capable lesson and dressage horse in the hands of Andra Constantin and Carol Popp in CT, Rocky is another in CT that is looking wonderful and coming along so well with Lynda Morhardt. All very dedicated people who take pride in how their horses look, knowing that your horse is a reflection of you as a person.

-Best All Around Adopters: Carole and Clint, The Wade Family of WV adopted yet another horse this year, all are always fat and shining, they have donated to the mission, worked at the SWAP store building tables for us, bought a ton of stuff from the SWAP store, volunteered, bought calendars, offered transport help to volunteers and to Celeita when she fractured her arm… the list goes on and on as they are always looking for a way to help, this couple is a dream come true to any program trying to get things done with very little money.

-Adopters with the biggest hearts: Nancy Trotter of GA, Micki Ollman of NC and Dana Limpert of Maryland. Nancy and Micki for adopting completely blind horses just because they needed a home and they could give them that home, this is the second year we’ve selected them for this honor. Nancy has gone through a major injury with Amber, a family move and even found a Donkey to be Ambers buddy. Micki now runs a blind horse sanctuary in NC and we’ve recommended several blind horses to her that she’s accepted into her program. She even had our beloved 41 year old Kochese a birthday party with local kids attending and walked him in the local Christmas parade, she even went out of her way to meet Kochese’s original owner who had him for many many years but lost her home to foreclosure after a major family illness. When a blind horse comes to you as a rescue, it’s the biggest worry wondering if anyone will ever adopt or if they will ever have a family of their own and then you worry about them being neglected or abused… most rescues just turn them away and many times It’s their last chance. When such a needy horse finds a great home it is really a gift from god. They will both tell you there is nothing better than having an animal that needs you so much and they realize what a gift to them that it really is to have such horses in their lives. Dana Limpert adopted Klack and is working to get his OCD removed as promised, it took us 2 years to find someone that cared enough about the horse to accept the challenge, amazing how many people want something great for nothing, not Dana, she has no expectations except to get him healthy and give him a chance. You just do not find people with the spiritual and personal strength and faith, courage and selflessness to take on horses like this every day. It is truly commendable.

-Adopter that has learned the most since adopting: Katharine Owens and Arab mare Melody of VA, she adopted unhandled 10 month old SA Melody who came to us from a breeder that was over breeding many years and then would send us 10 to 15 unhandled youngsters each year. Melody was lovely but needed so much training…. Fast forward 11 years and they are showing, competing and winning in halter, dressage and stock seat show classes and Katharine is not a professional, she paid a trainer, went to lessons, she got trained and got Melody trained, it really shows that with the investment of time and money and many years of dedication, everyone can raise the horse of their dreams, no matter what their start has been but it does not happen in a month and many times it does not even happen in a year, slow and steady always wins the race.

-SWAP horse that has lived the most interesting life: Mikado and Revue, Mikado was born in Ireland, competed in eventing there, then imported to the US and competed around NY and the east coast, then was adopted into a home in Fairbanks, Alaska. That boy’s been around and his personality is bigger than life. Revue was born in Australia, competed there, went to Europe and was owned by the FEI President, competed there, imported into the US and competed here. Came to us as too much horse for an amateur and not enough for a professional to win but to the surprise of many we placed her with Rhonda Ross, a legally blind rider who built a relationship with her and Revue would ride her anywhere, we sadly lost Rhonda this year and Revue is back with us looking for another home that will give her the time she needs to establish a relationship with in order to see the best of her abilities.

Thank you all for a super year. Without you, SWAP today would just be a memory of the past.

      "Saving the life of one horse may not change the world,

          but the world will surely change for that one horse”

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