$$ for Who can attend this symposium?

[EquesB@aol.com]

I'd be happy to send $$ towards getting someone to attend. I too, am unable to
come up with the $$ or time away from work.   Two weeks ago I happened to get
to sit in as representative for our state horse council at the Comprehensive
Outdoor Recreation Planning meeting for Florida.  Not only was I the only
equestrian representative there, but I was also the only person who was NOT
from a government agency.  Talk about rubbing shoulder with the Beaurocrats!!
All the Big Dogs that the Sunshine State Horse Council has been trying to get
together for years.   By the end of the day I felt pretty good about getting
in all my comments, but it was just one day in the government wish-wash.
Here in FL, state lands can be managed by several different agencies together
or separately. Of course, all these agencies have different rules, fee
structures, etc. I'd have to say I share Connie's concerns for where many of
these agencies are headed with regards to horses. If only a few people speak
up then they will think only a few people care.  We have had the motorized
dirt-bike groups become EXTREMELY vocal in just 7 months!! Unfortunately,
while all equestrian disciplines use the trails not all of them will speak out
for our cause. I will start making phone calls immediately to find someone who
can attend. 

Jackie Baker,
FL