Susie Duncan Sexton's Blog, page 26
December 17, 2012
...thanks for letting me vent
interesting to watch how the media, also dependent on kissing the fannies of the rich, have been instructed to play up "mental illness" rather than pointing to the NRA which is seeing to it that they remain the chief lobby of all time...so this current holocaust will end up not being blamed on guns and those who are fascinated with them at all costs. i am disgusted by the coverage.
apathy turning to empathy because we will not back down. shyness is not a quality i am any longer interested in displaying...until the day i die! ;)
a NOKILL nation...NOKILL! i am waiting for folks to talk some sense regarding the tragedies of last week and stop their hedging. such as why guns are needed by anybody...and why hunting is considered a sport or a "feeding my family" necessity! BS! enough already! what and who is everybody afraid of i wonder? killing is killing.
and the "mentally ill" cop out is getting really stale...wish i was the person in charge of handing out the licenses...i would deny everyone who applied citing those who want weapons are "mentally ill"! trying to keep these beliefs to myself until i think the moment is right to state the obvious...
indeed it is right now...the emperor is wearing no clothes...desensitization and apathy and self-interest on one hand...cruelty and snarkiness and self-interest on the other. about 50/50 like everything else! surprise! self-interest being the only commonality!
...the mental illness thing is simply a diversionary tactic set in place by the NRA whom the politicians salute.
i wanna know what michael moore is thinking right about now..."bowling for columbine" was his best documentary so far...thanks for letting me vent.
feedback...
Bob Carlson: "made me think of good ol' Euell Gibbons's book, 'Stalking the Wild Asparagus.' ... just got through a long argument with gun nuts who resorted to name-calling. time to watch 'Antiques Roadshow' and crash."
David Rat: "You tell 'em, dear! Reposting!"
Steve and Cheryl Wood, about my book, "Great read of life and memories from a small Indiana Town. Would suggest it for anyone looking for a funny and relaxing afternoon read."
Bob Wannberg: "So very true, love shall heal and the meaning of 'success' be known as it should be, the measure of how we can help each other, recognize and preserve the Earth and all of its beauty , and treat all living beings as they should be, with love and compassion. Susie, Roy, you are such beautiful examples of this, I learn from you each and every day...thank you....There could be no better friends anywhere, yes, Susie, Roy, and as I read your book Susie, I realize how life could be, so amazing, how I wish I still had the house I grew up in, the town, the people, how very blessed you are! Your book is captivating, once you start you cannot put it down! Brilliant in all ways, the manner you write is so smooth, it flows from page to page, just like you were sitting there talking to me! thank you again!"
Mary Shaull: "I agree, Susie. But I also feel that mental illness is a real problem that must be addressed. Give you or me a gun, and we wouldn't think of hurting anyone. But there are a lot of sick cookies out there who will find guns and carry out their horrible urges. I feel that President Obama will take action on the assault rifle issue. Hope he does it fast, while all of our hearts are so terribly, terribly broken."
_____________________
diversionary tactics...i stand by that...a bunch of nothing but! NRA pays big money to shut mouths and finance spins...listen very carefully. hopefully, their "66 times more than any other lobby spends" will not work this time. and the ads on tv continue..advertising many shows featuring target practice and killings as we watch. all to sell guns and licenses and "sportsmen" clothing...we must all get on board with this...and all or nothing!
another great point i heard tonight was: with all of america on over-the-counter OR illegal drugs, plenty of odd behavior patterns to go around..."mental illness" is seeming to be the catch-all term...does that diagnosis also include and capture altered thinking attributable to drugs of all varieties? just remembered that...at least some great dialogue to be listened to...for the moment. hoping it lasts until legislation kicks in and soon
"Easier to purchase a gun/registration than to adopt a pet!" - Piers Morgan
oh, here is a typical quote...and to many of us the root of the problem...(I personally ask why is all of this violence, directed at animals, not pointed out as the culprit and at the root of this violent culture? that fact is being muffled.) West Virginia Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin, another "A"-rated member of the NRA, on Monday questioned the availability of assault weapons, saying on MSNBC's "Morning Joe," "I don't know anyone in the sporting or hunting arena that goes out with an assault rifle. I don't know anybody that needs 30 rounds in a clip to go hunting. I mean, these are things that need to be talked about." huh?
the nra out-lobby for instance the brady commission to the tune of 66 times more and that takes a lot of money...and the guns are flying off the shelves this week...as the NRA points to "mental illness" reform...they are gonna cause fickle america to now point fingers ala "psychology 101"...everybody is gonna be an accusatory expert about everybody else...sick of this horrid situation caused by jerk-wads who are into guns? mindless killers all!
love this! Brenda Stroik Stiller: "Easier to purchase a gun than it is to buy raw milk in Mchigan...because you know raw milk could hurt me, I need to be protected from that!"
Christian Raymond: "No kill for all sentient beings!"
in the midst of our national horror, reverence for animals...caring about preserving their lives is as important as ever...they are at the bottom of the barrel in more ways than one...we must sensitize human beings and our citizens to the crassness of killing second by second whether of our shelter residents, our wild-life or our farm animals...IF we start there, we stop killing each other. put the weapons meant for murder, and they all are meant for slaughter, away...get those killing devices gone off the face of the earth...accept NOKILL into our hearts...and our intelligent thinking. begin this moment...thanks, all!
____________________
i am cynical also...and sometimes it seems as if the religious folks are stubbornly disregarding and hunting (like "sister" sarah palin , she of the multi children) and grilling out and ignoring shelter animals on purpose? but as soon as i believe that in my very soul, somebody religious bops along and loves animals as much as I do?
still, the paul ryan effort to let us know he "hunts" and that his little GIRL (?) would be hunting also...just to get votes, i got all cynical again. and lots of church ladies love him to pieces! animals are politicized no doubt about it...and if i hear one more suited fellow or dressed up dame refer to "hunting" as a "sportsman's" right in this violent culture of mass slaughter of anything that breathes, i am gonna ___ i dunno what!
Lotta Stenfelt: "I can understand how Susie is thinking. And referring to the last sentences: How about putting a piece of cloth in their mouths? drenched in vinegar?..."
"NOKILL FOR ALL SENTIENT BEINGS" WOULD BE A GREAT FIRST STEP BACK TO NORMALCY...and another post i just read is "MANY DON'T LIKE THE THOUGHT OF ANY ANIMAL SHATTERING THE BELIEF IN HUMAN SUPERIORITY!" and another from John M. : "IT IS NOW COMMON KNOWLEDGE THAT EATING ANIMALS ... CAUSES EVERY MAJOR DISEASE. IT IS TIME TO EVOLVE...START RAISING VEGETABLES, IN OTHER WORDS, HUMAN FOOD..." (and the grazing animals we eat are vegetarians by the way before we cannibalize them...)
Greto Alene: "I agree, Our Animals are as precious as our children (to me more so)"
Jonny Rio: "you're welcome, Susie Duncan! and may GOD BLESS U! :-}"
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
apathy turning to empathy because we will not back down. shyness is not a quality i am any longer interested in displaying...until the day i die! ;)
a NOKILL nation...NOKILL! i am waiting for folks to talk some sense regarding the tragedies of last week and stop their hedging. such as why guns are needed by anybody...and why hunting is considered a sport or a "feeding my family" necessity! BS! enough already! what and who is everybody afraid of i wonder? killing is killing.
and the "mentally ill" cop out is getting really stale...wish i was the person in charge of handing out the licenses...i would deny everyone who applied citing those who want weapons are "mentally ill"! trying to keep these beliefs to myself until i think the moment is right to state the obvious...
indeed it is right now...the emperor is wearing no clothes...desensitization and apathy and self-interest on one hand...cruelty and snarkiness and self-interest on the other. about 50/50 like everything else! surprise! self-interest being the only commonality!
...the mental illness thing is simply a diversionary tactic set in place by the NRA whom the politicians salute.
i wanna know what michael moore is thinking right about now..."bowling for columbine" was his best documentary so far...thanks for letting me vent.
feedback...
Bob Carlson: "made me think of good ol' Euell Gibbons's book, 'Stalking the Wild Asparagus.' ... just got through a long argument with gun nuts who resorted to name-calling. time to watch 'Antiques Roadshow' and crash."
David Rat: "You tell 'em, dear! Reposting!"
Steve and Cheryl Wood, about my book, "Great read of life and memories from a small Indiana Town. Would suggest it for anyone looking for a funny and relaxing afternoon read."
Bob Wannberg: "So very true, love shall heal and the meaning of 'success' be known as it should be, the measure of how we can help each other, recognize and preserve the Earth and all of its beauty , and treat all living beings as they should be, with love and compassion. Susie, Roy, you are such beautiful examples of this, I learn from you each and every day...thank you....There could be no better friends anywhere, yes, Susie, Roy, and as I read your book Susie, I realize how life could be, so amazing, how I wish I still had the house I grew up in, the town, the people, how very blessed you are! Your book is captivating, once you start you cannot put it down! Brilliant in all ways, the manner you write is so smooth, it flows from page to page, just like you were sitting there talking to me! thank you again!"
Mary Shaull: "I agree, Susie. But I also feel that mental illness is a real problem that must be addressed. Give you or me a gun, and we wouldn't think of hurting anyone. But there are a lot of sick cookies out there who will find guns and carry out their horrible urges. I feel that President Obama will take action on the assault rifle issue. Hope he does it fast, while all of our hearts are so terribly, terribly broken."
_____________________
diversionary tactics...i stand by that...a bunch of nothing but! NRA pays big money to shut mouths and finance spins...listen very carefully. hopefully, their "66 times more than any other lobby spends" will not work this time. and the ads on tv continue..advertising many shows featuring target practice and killings as we watch. all to sell guns and licenses and "sportsmen" clothing...we must all get on board with this...and all or nothing!
another great point i heard tonight was: with all of america on over-the-counter OR illegal drugs, plenty of odd behavior patterns to go around..."mental illness" is seeming to be the catch-all term...does that diagnosis also include and capture altered thinking attributable to drugs of all varieties? just remembered that...at least some great dialogue to be listened to...for the moment. hoping it lasts until legislation kicks in and soon
"Easier to purchase a gun/registration than to adopt a pet!" - Piers Morgan
oh, here is a typical quote...and to many of us the root of the problem...(I personally ask why is all of this violence, directed at animals, not pointed out as the culprit and at the root of this violent culture? that fact is being muffled.) West Virginia Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin, another "A"-rated member of the NRA, on Monday questioned the availability of assault weapons, saying on MSNBC's "Morning Joe," "I don't know anyone in the sporting or hunting arena that goes out with an assault rifle. I don't know anybody that needs 30 rounds in a clip to go hunting. I mean, these are things that need to be talked about." huh?
the nra out-lobby for instance the brady commission to the tune of 66 times more and that takes a lot of money...and the guns are flying off the shelves this week...as the NRA points to "mental illness" reform...they are gonna cause fickle america to now point fingers ala "psychology 101"...everybody is gonna be an accusatory expert about everybody else...sick of this horrid situation caused by jerk-wads who are into guns? mindless killers all!
love this! Brenda Stroik Stiller: "Easier to purchase a gun than it is to buy raw milk in Mchigan...because you know raw milk could hurt me, I need to be protected from that!"
Christian Raymond: "No kill for all sentient beings!"
in the midst of our national horror, reverence for animals...caring about preserving their lives is as important as ever...they are at the bottom of the barrel in more ways than one...we must sensitize human beings and our citizens to the crassness of killing second by second whether of our shelter residents, our wild-life or our farm animals...IF we start there, we stop killing each other. put the weapons meant for murder, and they all are meant for slaughter, away...get those killing devices gone off the face of the earth...accept NOKILL into our hearts...and our intelligent thinking. begin this moment...thanks, all!
____________________
i am cynical also...and sometimes it seems as if the religious folks are stubbornly disregarding and hunting (like "sister" sarah palin , she of the multi children) and grilling out and ignoring shelter animals on purpose? but as soon as i believe that in my very soul, somebody religious bops along and loves animals as much as I do?
still, the paul ryan effort to let us know he "hunts" and that his little GIRL (?) would be hunting also...just to get votes, i got all cynical again. and lots of church ladies love him to pieces! animals are politicized no doubt about it...and if i hear one more suited fellow or dressed up dame refer to "hunting" as a "sportsman's" right in this violent culture of mass slaughter of anything that breathes, i am gonna ___ i dunno what!
Lotta Stenfelt: "I can understand how Susie is thinking. And referring to the last sentences: How about putting a piece of cloth in their mouths? drenched in vinegar?..."
"NOKILL FOR ALL SENTIENT BEINGS" WOULD BE A GREAT FIRST STEP BACK TO NORMALCY...and another post i just read is "MANY DON'T LIKE THE THOUGHT OF ANY ANIMAL SHATTERING THE BELIEF IN HUMAN SUPERIORITY!" and another from John M. : "IT IS NOW COMMON KNOWLEDGE THAT EATING ANIMALS ... CAUSES EVERY MAJOR DISEASE. IT IS TIME TO EVOLVE...START RAISING VEGETABLES, IN OTHER WORDS, HUMAN FOOD..." (and the grazing animals we eat are vegetarians by the way before we cannibalize them...)
Greto Alene: "I agree, Our Animals are as precious as our children (to me more so)"
Jonny Rio: "you're welcome, Susie Duncan! and may GOD BLESS U! :-}"
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
December 14, 2012
my status...
MY STATUS: please consider adopting a shelter animal during this festive season which humans celebrate, when carolers carol, when candy and cookies overflow, when gifts are purchased in frenzied shopping fests, when parties happen right and left...stop for just one second and catch your breath and include, include, include those who are left out.
among those -- humans or animals -- who simply sit alone at home or on sidewalks or in prisons of one type or another, or wander about in desperation, many hearts are broken and fearful and isolated. reach out to help and to pull those souls closer to happiness and security and acceptance. please? so easy to do and rewarding beyond measure. thanks for reading...and for doing! =^..^=
animals are just as special as humans...i am totally convinced that intelligent humans know that...we are the same -- mammals...exactly the same...that is why this ignorant disregard of animals pains us. i am ashamed to be part of the human race. i believe that reproducing ourselves is the most selfish and ridiculous action humans engage in...if people truly loved children, this rampant over-reproduction would stop...and the conscious and greedy and callous over-reproduction of farm animals is criminal and the reason that third world countries brim with starving children...we import the feed for our INDUSTRY OF SLAUGHTER FOR MEAT right from the mouths of children whose bellies are distended. most days, i am totally sick of living in this uncaring world...totally weary...totally disgusted.
the operative word is "think"...thinking people care....thinking people are trying to "right" this second by second tragedy of death directed at animals. i am proud of us...and i prefer kind, thinking, intelligent people to apathetic self-concerned zombies and cruel thugs...
...i truly hope that folks realize that holidays are supposedly bad times to adopt BUT that holidays ARE those periods when animals are weeded out and destroyed...so choose the correct path. i believe that NOW is a perfect time to save lives...in honor of this season of love and inclusion and looking after those who are less fortunate. ADOPT NOW...oh, please.... and thanks to those who do!
the holidays are also the killing seasons...so a choice must be made as to what might be truly important and meaningful..i have experienced holidays when homeless animals AND humans with nobody in their lives took precedence over the mania of holiday times...and the holiday became ever more meaningful. those are times one never forgets...when charity trumped festiveness. nothing better. INCLUSION MATTERS TO ALL OF US...truly does.
___________________
postscript
shopping mall shooting and now this at the elementary school in connecticut...now, the profiteers such as ... retailers and NRA ... are gonna let these two shootings drop really quickly...have you noticed that lately? this world is going straight to hell...and all we can do is watch...personally two shootings in a week and a half at christmas is very worthy of comment and some serious problem-solving...but corporate america is all that matters. i am not in with the in crowd...don't wanna be...but it is interesting to watch folks play up to whomever they think has the dough.
"law-abiding, gun-owning americans?" huh? using "weapons" in a "responsible" manner? huh? "guns do not kill...people kill?" people with guns kill...that is why we refer to guns as weapons. WEAPONS... ah, the spinning is already in place ... business as usual. unreal. who is getting paid to deny this terror in our country...terrorism for which we are responsible.
"only two things we use guns for...killing...and practicing killing..." now that is a great quote...cutting through the spin. wish i caught the name of the gentleman who just said that. i marvel that females are on board with waffling about murderous weapons...a pregnant newscaster girl with a four year old at home? amazing stuff...is there a barbie doll with hiking boots and rifles available yet? what have i missed...how did the natural gentleness of women get prostituted like this? well, that is truly a shame. i am afraid we are going backward.
if people are educated to respect all life, this horror could turn around. we must foster gentleness evidently...fear and bullying are also taught...evidently caring and respecting life need to be taught instead.
people are probably not the highest species on the evolutionary chain...pretty convinced of that by now. we have far less sense than other species...and the rampant insecurity coupled with burgeoning bullying behavior means we are doomed. an experiment gone wrong we must be...hopefully we stop destroying the natural world and all of its wonders before we exit forever. animals might survive in spite of our trying to kill all of them off as well as all of us shooting at each other. they may survive
hey, time to stop the violence...the psychological discussions already flooding the airwaves...let us talk about NO MORE GUNS! NOW! discuss that....NOW!
love these comments from my pals...
Drex Morton: “Amen, I agree wholeheartedly, Susie, and thanks for inspiring me to post similarly...[Drex's reaction to status statement that opens this blog entry].”
(oh, thank you so much drex...i also often wonder why churches do not start putting an emphasis on this terrible epidemic of animal slaughtering...and encourage human beings to step in to help alleviate this horror. i am so pleased that this concern of so very many of us resonates with you...but then you are a very special person!)
Paul Clifford Schrade: “Oh yes, yes, Susie! Let this clarion call extend through the entire year and fill all the cavities in our hearts!”
Barbara Jane Sowak: “Well, I try. Some people ask me why I do this, they can't comprehend why I try to save animals and not human children or people who are starving in Africa, etc. Well, that sickens me too. Of course there are lots of orgs such as the Red Cross, Doctors without Borders, etc. etc. , UNICEF and so on who ostensibly assist. (and I know that many of those orgs are rampant with corruption and the kids don't see the food or clothes or toys.) But I love animals, especially doggies, and perhaps as a single woman with no kids, I get special bonds with them and well know how much love and companionship they can give, how they don't judge and how they can help people, whether by being service dogs or kitties, police dogs, herders, rescuers, helping the blind and otherwise challenged , what have you. And animals cannot speak as humans can, and we of course have to be their voice.”
Evelyn Fisher: "I LOVE YOU TOO, SISTER ! so VERY much ! you are one of the kindest souls i've ever met ! God Bless you and your family; have a wonderful Christmas and New Year !!! ... You are so special to me, Susie ! you have found the softest place in my heart for your thoughts to land. I hold our friendship dear to me ! and you will always be one of my dearest friends ! I'm praying God heaps all kinds of blessings on you and your family. I'll shoo some of my Angels away so i know you will always be loved and protected ! I have an idea God keeps you safe in the palm of his hand already ! ... Again, you are such a blessing to me ! I would think that someone as wonderful as you would be surrounded by friends and family that tell you every single day how wonderful you are ! you are a treasure ! and I know that God has wonderful things planned for you ! you know, i have to tell you now, when we first began to began to speak, i clearly heard in my mind this complete sentence, 'I'll see you on the other side'. I was going to ask you if that had meaning to you, but i kept it to myself. I think I have an idea what it means to me now ! I WILL see you on the other side !"
Rory Tipping: "Very inspiring words, thanks. Hope you all have a great holiday season."
Debby Hanoka: "I take it one step further. I adopted my cats -- all three of them -- right off the street. THEY need me more than shelters and rescues."
Gobbler Goose: "So perfectly expressed!"
Kat Kelly-Heinzelman: “Hello Susie, everyday I come on to Goodreads to see if you have wrote something new...if you haven't I feel disappointed but I know you are busy doing the thousands of things you do every day like saving lives, being a wife, mother, friend, writer, and an all-around fix it gal...I'm so happy to have you in my corner as a friend and animal lover. Hope your holiday season is a great one and know that you and your family are in my thoughts throughout this holiday season. God bless you, Susie, and thanks for everything...”
Colin Lively: "I would walk through fire for you, Susie. If Don EVER says a harsh word to you... it won't be pretty for Don Sexton!"
Kerry West: "We can all do something to help homeless pets !"
thanks, kat! your messages certainly perk me up. i worry daily about the harsh treatment animals receive and hope that more and more people every day wise up and learn to respect all living beings in real time and turn this disrespect and non-concern around. just boggles my mind. so neat to know that folks like you care and work toward enlightenment and the welfare and rights of all living beings! you are so special! i thank YOU!
Nerida V Monk: "Awww....thank you so much, Susie! So nice to hear your words of kindness! Lord knows, I have my quota of haters! I appreciate this!"
i have haters also...especially my own family members! life can get very interesting for gentle souls like we are who love animals and detest murder. i call us BRAVE HEARTS...and i am not even a mel gibson fan. i have had a hell of a time...so i totally relate! thanks for your courage and for what actually is LOVE...so odd that in this current environment we have
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
among those -- humans or animals -- who simply sit alone at home or on sidewalks or in prisons of one type or another, or wander about in desperation, many hearts are broken and fearful and isolated. reach out to help and to pull those souls closer to happiness and security and acceptance. please? so easy to do and rewarding beyond measure. thanks for reading...and for doing! =^..^=
animals are just as special as humans...i am totally convinced that intelligent humans know that...we are the same -- mammals...exactly the same...that is why this ignorant disregard of animals pains us. i am ashamed to be part of the human race. i believe that reproducing ourselves is the most selfish and ridiculous action humans engage in...if people truly loved children, this rampant over-reproduction would stop...and the conscious and greedy and callous over-reproduction of farm animals is criminal and the reason that third world countries brim with starving children...we import the feed for our INDUSTRY OF SLAUGHTER FOR MEAT right from the mouths of children whose bellies are distended. most days, i am totally sick of living in this uncaring world...totally weary...totally disgusted.
the operative word is "think"...thinking people care....thinking people are trying to "right" this second by second tragedy of death directed at animals. i am proud of us...and i prefer kind, thinking, intelligent people to apathetic self-concerned zombies and cruel thugs...
...i truly hope that folks realize that holidays are supposedly bad times to adopt BUT that holidays ARE those periods when animals are weeded out and destroyed...so choose the correct path. i believe that NOW is a perfect time to save lives...in honor of this season of love and inclusion and looking after those who are less fortunate. ADOPT NOW...oh, please.... and thanks to those who do!
the holidays are also the killing seasons...so a choice must be made as to what might be truly important and meaningful..i have experienced holidays when homeless animals AND humans with nobody in their lives took precedence over the mania of holiday times...and the holiday became ever more meaningful. those are times one never forgets...when charity trumped festiveness. nothing better. INCLUSION MATTERS TO ALL OF US...truly does.
___________________
postscript
shopping mall shooting and now this at the elementary school in connecticut...now, the profiteers such as ... retailers and NRA ... are gonna let these two shootings drop really quickly...have you noticed that lately? this world is going straight to hell...and all we can do is watch...personally two shootings in a week and a half at christmas is very worthy of comment and some serious problem-solving...but corporate america is all that matters. i am not in with the in crowd...don't wanna be...but it is interesting to watch folks play up to whomever they think has the dough.
"law-abiding, gun-owning americans?" huh? using "weapons" in a "responsible" manner? huh? "guns do not kill...people kill?" people with guns kill...that is why we refer to guns as weapons. WEAPONS... ah, the spinning is already in place ... business as usual. unreal. who is getting paid to deny this terror in our country...terrorism for which we are responsible.
"only two things we use guns for...killing...and practicing killing..." now that is a great quote...cutting through the spin. wish i caught the name of the gentleman who just said that. i marvel that females are on board with waffling about murderous weapons...a pregnant newscaster girl with a four year old at home? amazing stuff...is there a barbie doll with hiking boots and rifles available yet? what have i missed...how did the natural gentleness of women get prostituted like this? well, that is truly a shame. i am afraid we are going backward.
if people are educated to respect all life, this horror could turn around. we must foster gentleness evidently...fear and bullying are also taught...evidently caring and respecting life need to be taught instead.
people are probably not the highest species on the evolutionary chain...pretty convinced of that by now. we have far less sense than other species...and the rampant insecurity coupled with burgeoning bullying behavior means we are doomed. an experiment gone wrong we must be...hopefully we stop destroying the natural world and all of its wonders before we exit forever. animals might survive in spite of our trying to kill all of them off as well as all of us shooting at each other. they may survive
hey, time to stop the violence...the psychological discussions already flooding the airwaves...let us talk about NO MORE GUNS! NOW! discuss that....NOW!
love these comments from my pals...
Drex Morton: “Amen, I agree wholeheartedly, Susie, and thanks for inspiring me to post similarly...[Drex's reaction to status statement that opens this blog entry].”
(oh, thank you so much drex...i also often wonder why churches do not start putting an emphasis on this terrible epidemic of animal slaughtering...and encourage human beings to step in to help alleviate this horror. i am so pleased that this concern of so very many of us resonates with you...but then you are a very special person!)
Paul Clifford Schrade: “Oh yes, yes, Susie! Let this clarion call extend through the entire year and fill all the cavities in our hearts!”
Barbara Jane Sowak: “Well, I try. Some people ask me why I do this, they can't comprehend why I try to save animals and not human children or people who are starving in Africa, etc. Well, that sickens me too. Of course there are lots of orgs such as the Red Cross, Doctors without Borders, etc. etc. , UNICEF and so on who ostensibly assist. (and I know that many of those orgs are rampant with corruption and the kids don't see the food or clothes or toys.) But I love animals, especially doggies, and perhaps as a single woman with no kids, I get special bonds with them and well know how much love and companionship they can give, how they don't judge and how they can help people, whether by being service dogs or kitties, police dogs, herders, rescuers, helping the blind and otherwise challenged , what have you. And animals cannot speak as humans can, and we of course have to be their voice.”
Evelyn Fisher: "I LOVE YOU TOO, SISTER ! so VERY much ! you are one of the kindest souls i've ever met ! God Bless you and your family; have a wonderful Christmas and New Year !!! ... You are so special to me, Susie ! you have found the softest place in my heart for your thoughts to land. I hold our friendship dear to me ! and you will always be one of my dearest friends ! I'm praying God heaps all kinds of blessings on you and your family. I'll shoo some of my Angels away so i know you will always be loved and protected ! I have an idea God keeps you safe in the palm of his hand already ! ... Again, you are such a blessing to me ! I would think that someone as wonderful as you would be surrounded by friends and family that tell you every single day how wonderful you are ! you are a treasure ! and I know that God has wonderful things planned for you ! you know, i have to tell you now, when we first began to began to speak, i clearly heard in my mind this complete sentence, 'I'll see you on the other side'. I was going to ask you if that had meaning to you, but i kept it to myself. I think I have an idea what it means to me now ! I WILL see you on the other side !"
Rory Tipping: "Very inspiring words, thanks. Hope you all have a great holiday season."
Debby Hanoka: "I take it one step further. I adopted my cats -- all three of them -- right off the street. THEY need me more than shelters and rescues."
Gobbler Goose: "So perfectly expressed!"
Kat Kelly-Heinzelman: “Hello Susie, everyday I come on to Goodreads to see if you have wrote something new...if you haven't I feel disappointed but I know you are busy doing the thousands of things you do every day like saving lives, being a wife, mother, friend, writer, and an all-around fix it gal...I'm so happy to have you in my corner as a friend and animal lover. Hope your holiday season is a great one and know that you and your family are in my thoughts throughout this holiday season. God bless you, Susie, and thanks for everything...”
Colin Lively: "I would walk through fire for you, Susie. If Don EVER says a harsh word to you... it won't be pretty for Don Sexton!"
Kerry West: "We can all do something to help homeless pets !"
thanks, kat! your messages certainly perk me up. i worry daily about the harsh treatment animals receive and hope that more and more people every day wise up and learn to respect all living beings in real time and turn this disrespect and non-concern around. just boggles my mind. so neat to know that folks like you care and work toward enlightenment and the welfare and rights of all living beings! you are so special! i thank YOU!
Nerida V Monk: "Awww....thank you so much, Susie! So nice to hear your words of kindness! Lord knows, I have my quota of haters! I appreciate this!"
i have haters also...especially my own family members! life can get very interesting for gentle souls like we are who love animals and detest murder. i call us BRAVE HEARTS...and i am not even a mel gibson fan. i have had a hell of a time...so i totally relate! thanks for your courage and for what actually is LOVE...so odd that in this current environment we have
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
December 12, 2012
no mincing words...
there is no resting in peace...there is the horror of being slain...a living being's last moments on earth consisting of being frightened and terrified and then killed...accept that fact and we can change the system, the killing system...do not mythologize...do not accept profiteering via slaughter of any living being. please empathize...please.
in response to this powerful video (click here) narrated by MTV's Jackass' Steve O, my dear friend Yuka Yamashita wrote, "Note that that video contains graphic imagery, but this is the reality. So I watched, as I want to know the reality; I want to know about these animals; I want to stop facing away from the reality, but learn and know what's going on behind the scenes of my daily dishes. I am avoiding eating meat now, to change my diet forever, but still eating seafood and eggs, so I have to know and recognize these sacrifices and lives that I am taking everyday... for my own right decisions. Ignorance and indifference is a Sin."
wonderful statement, yuka!!!!! ...we cannot look away...the crassness of profiting on such horrors and furthermore perpetuating health problems by turning a blind eye to the sheer insanity of slaughtering and eating animals is in a primitive time-warp. we should be brighter and kinder as we evolve...not selfish and brutish. tired of mincing words.
people really need to watch several of these startling videos...the reason, and i mean REASON, that this effort to enlighten human beings is growing by leaps and bounds. enlightenment. never ever would i have believed that i could watch...but i have and i do. thank you for watching and for posting, yuka! truly! thanks for your support of such a noble cause as animal welfare and their rights and our rights to see that they are treasured. backing down is not my style nor yours! yay for us!
thanks, all, for your powerful responses to the above entry...
Dee Turner: "Thank you for being such a strong rallying voice for the voiceless everywhere!!! I so empathize and agree with this wise philosophy for educating humanity. Human beings MUST be or become more 'Humane Beings' because there is NO excuse for any animal abuse. 'Ignorance and indifference is a Sin.'"
Cat Tingley: "Very powerful video!"
Brahma Rakshasa Ravana: "thanks. i love your mother. she is a great woman. you are a lucky man, roy."
Florence Windfall: "I couldn't watch this video about the pig factory farm. The people who just throw these animals away like trash -- where is their humanity? Who are they? Who raised THEM? Who encouraged their sadistic lifestyle -- is it money alone? Who would do these things even for money, even for a LOT of money? I know that you could not pay me to do these things. I would rather die -- I would commit suicide if I was FORCED to do these things. How do these people exist in our culture at all? They have dehumanized themselves. Who does this?"
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
in response to this powerful video (click here) narrated by MTV's Jackass' Steve O, my dear friend Yuka Yamashita wrote, "Note that that video contains graphic imagery, but this is the reality. So I watched, as I want to know the reality; I want to know about these animals; I want to stop facing away from the reality, but learn and know what's going on behind the scenes of my daily dishes. I am avoiding eating meat now, to change my diet forever, but still eating seafood and eggs, so I have to know and recognize these sacrifices and lives that I am taking everyday... for my own right decisions. Ignorance and indifference is a Sin."
wonderful statement, yuka!!!!! ...we cannot look away...the crassness of profiting on such horrors and furthermore perpetuating health problems by turning a blind eye to the sheer insanity of slaughtering and eating animals is in a primitive time-warp. we should be brighter and kinder as we evolve...not selfish and brutish. tired of mincing words.
people really need to watch several of these startling videos...the reason, and i mean REASON, that this effort to enlighten human beings is growing by leaps and bounds. enlightenment. never ever would i have believed that i could watch...but i have and i do. thank you for watching and for posting, yuka! truly! thanks for your support of such a noble cause as animal welfare and their rights and our rights to see that they are treasured. backing down is not my style nor yours! yay for us!
thanks, all, for your powerful responses to the above entry...
Dee Turner: "Thank you for being such a strong rallying voice for the voiceless everywhere!!! I so empathize and agree with this wise philosophy for educating humanity. Human beings MUST be or become more 'Humane Beings' because there is NO excuse for any animal abuse. 'Ignorance and indifference is a Sin.'"
Cat Tingley: "Very powerful video!"
Brahma Rakshasa Ravana: "thanks. i love your mother. she is a great woman. you are a lucky man, roy."
Florence Windfall: "I couldn't watch this video about the pig factory farm. The people who just throw these animals away like trash -- where is their humanity? Who are they? Who raised THEM? Who encouraged their sadistic lifestyle -- is it money alone? Who would do these things even for money, even for a LOT of money? I know that you could not pay me to do these things. I would rather die -- I would commit suicide if I was FORCED to do these things. How do these people exist in our culture at all? They have dehumanized themselves. Who does this?"
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
December 10, 2012
appreciated and inspiring...
Thanks, everyone, for your help on December's charity drive to benefit Symphony Animal Foundation! The friendship and encouragement were so appreciated and inspiring.
Open Books will tally the copies of Secrets of an Old Typewriter sold from December 6th through the 9th and send a gift in memory of the late, Los Angeles-based poet Scott Wannberg (www.open-bks.com). As I was quoted in the event press release: “Animals are my heart and soul. Plain and simple. I am thrilled that my book is resonating so well with fellow animal lovers, and I am so grateful that we can do something with the book to help educate and support our animal friends.”
Symphony Animal Foundation (SAF) was founded by Laraine Russo Harper and was inspired by and is named in memory of her two St. Bernards, “Beethoven” and “Mozart”. Symphony Animal Foundation is a no kill facility which provides a safe haven for all animals.
Kudos to Scott's brother Bob Wannberg and to Laraine for inspiring us all! Thanks to Open Books, David A. Ross, Kelly Huddleston for their tireless support. Special thanks to all of our friends here and the various social media groups who promoted, shared, purchased, commented, liked, and cared, helping us get the word out. Finally, thanks to the sundry press outlets that really gave us some amazing coverage throughout the fall, notably BroadwayWorld.com, VegNews, Thomas Janak & Wild Time Radio, Colin Lively & Joshua Plant, Columbia City Post and Mail, Fort Wayne News-Sentinel, Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, Churubusco News, Allison Hawkins & the Pahrump Mirror, Heritage Newspapers, Here Women Talk Radio, Talk of the Town, and no doubt a few others we missed.
Mary Shaull added, "AND special thanks to Susie and Roy for creating and promoting this marvelous event! What a team! ... Love those pictures! What a beautiful and handsome family!! So glad I'm part of you."
Cat Tingley: "Nice pictures everyone!"
Paro Babu: "thank you, Roy, for sharing this wonderul blog - love you, Susie! ... thank you, Roy, for sharing such wonderul blogs with us, and ♥ Susie ♥ who is the creator of these magical blogs..."
Bob Wannberg: "Thank you, Susie, Roy, for this wonderful coverage, all of your efforts are so appreciated!"
Paul Clifford Schrade: "The Twilight express is leaving first thing in the morning for YESTERYEARS. All those intrested in forsaking all this nonsense called TODAY are welcome to buy their tickets and climb aboard!! They must leave all the baggage they have accumulated and be prepared to start living again among warm, rational people in an enchanted place called HAPPYSVILLE. Don't look for it on any map because it is only in the heart! Godspeed and join you on the train!"
Laraine Russo Harper: "Susie and Roy: Thank you so much for your generosity and compassion that you have extended to the animals. You are truly special people. You are too, Bob Wannberg!"
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
Open Books will tally the copies of Secrets of an Old Typewriter sold from December 6th through the 9th and send a gift in memory of the late, Los Angeles-based poet Scott Wannberg (www.open-bks.com). As I was quoted in the event press release: “Animals are my heart and soul. Plain and simple. I am thrilled that my book is resonating so well with fellow animal lovers, and I am so grateful that we can do something with the book to help educate and support our animal friends.”
Symphony Animal Foundation (SAF) was founded by Laraine Russo Harper and was inspired by and is named in memory of her two St. Bernards, “Beethoven” and “Mozart”. Symphony Animal Foundation is a no kill facility which provides a safe haven for all animals.
Kudos to Scott's brother Bob Wannberg and to Laraine for inspiring us all! Thanks to Open Books, David A. Ross, Kelly Huddleston for their tireless support. Special thanks to all of our friends here and the various social media groups who promoted, shared, purchased, commented, liked, and cared, helping us get the word out. Finally, thanks to the sundry press outlets that really gave us some amazing coverage throughout the fall, notably BroadwayWorld.com, VegNews, Thomas Janak & Wild Time Radio, Colin Lively & Joshua Plant, Columbia City Post and Mail, Fort Wayne News-Sentinel, Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, Churubusco News, Allison Hawkins & the Pahrump Mirror, Heritage Newspapers, Here Women Talk Radio, Talk of the Town, and no doubt a few others we missed.
Mary Shaull added, "AND special thanks to Susie and Roy for creating and promoting this marvelous event! What a team! ... Love those pictures! What a beautiful and handsome family!! So glad I'm part of you."
Cat Tingley: "Nice pictures everyone!"
Paro Babu: "thank you, Roy, for sharing this wonderul blog - love you, Susie! ... thank you, Roy, for sharing such wonderul blogs with us, and ♥ Susie ♥ who is the creator of these magical blogs..."
Bob Wannberg: "Thank you, Susie, Roy, for this wonderful coverage, all of your efforts are so appreciated!"
Paul Clifford Schrade: "The Twilight express is leaving first thing in the morning for YESTERYEARS. All those intrested in forsaking all this nonsense called TODAY are welcome to buy their tickets and climb aboard!! They must leave all the baggage they have accumulated and be prepared to start living again among warm, rational people in an enchanted place called HAPPYSVILLE. Don't look for it on any map because it is only in the heart! Godspeed and join you on the train!"
Laraine Russo Harper: "Susie and Roy: Thank you so much for your generosity and compassion that you have extended to the animals. You are truly special people. You are too, Bob Wannberg!"
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
December 6, 2012
on the yellow brick road now...
a writer's lament...
today i was alerted to the ponderings of a young housewife, someone whom I have never met so I do not know how to relay messages to her, someone writing about dead goldfish and detesting baby turtles? sometimes she makes me laugh, but "please don't eat the daisies" ain't me…I leave that to all of the erma bombeck wannabe folks!
…that girl even believes that boys will be boys and that bullying is cute and natural and jokes about it? and graphically discusses jock cups? so though she makes me laugh occasionally, she and I are not on the same page?
I am on the yellow brick road now!
dang, my friend mary shaull just perked me up beyond measure…and I am now "doctoring" as they say…and I have a potent tube of james mason medicine that is scaring the psoriasis right outta my … life…I hope I hope I hope! arghhhhhh.
me and the medical profession do not mix…but oh, them toxic drugs, baby…gimme some.
I keep words of praise in a tiny drawer after I print them out. I review them periodically so that I know I might exist…seriously! small-town america does not specialize in morale boosting…strange glares, yes…morale boosting, no
my mom was an absolute doll once upon a time…and when she was a widow, as they say a "sea-change" took her over and I barely recognized her behavior…others still thought highly of her but she manipulated us "kids" like there was no tomorrow…and others manipulated her as well for some motivation or other.
ah, the mysteries of aging and the stories of damage that emerge.
I really do not want to slip into her style that she seemed to acquire maybe from a sense of self-preservation. the stages of life are wacky and stifling…I like for the ride to be a blur.
SECOND DAY of our charity drive for Symphony Animal Foundation, a no kill shelter! Order your paperback copy of Susie Duncan Sexton's book "Secrets of an Old Typewriter" at www.open-bks.com, www.amazon.com, or www.susieduncansexton.com, and publisher Open Books will donate a $1 for every copy sold between December 6 and 9!
The gift will be made in memory of SAF board member Bob Wannberg's late brother Scott, a Los Angeles-based poet and friend of animals everywhere. Susie writes, "so delighted with the prospects of providing a sizeable donation to this noble, noble effort...animals do matter and deserve protection and nurturing and our everlasting respect! ♥!!!"
Click here to order!
if someone told me to put anybody to sleep to RIP and to cross the rainbow bridge, guess what? i'd spit on the paycheck and take the dog to a good home instead. what dolls...and what a crime to murder these beings all day long every day somewhere in this mixed-up world of ours!
Wonderful friend Bob Wannberg writes:
Jen Esch commented, "Just bought Susie's book in paperback through Amazon. Roy. is it possible to coordinate an interview / autograph with the author? ...Love you, too! And Susie! She's amazing!"
Mina Linda: "I totally agree with Susie ~ Who takes God's role and determines when someone dies? So wrong and so awful!!!"
Mary Shaull: "I so credit Roy and Susie for all the work and planning that has gone into this effort for the sake of animals. It all started with her determination to get her book published. No small feat! With Roy leading the cheering section, it is all happening!!! So proud of you both!"
Shannon Wright: "Susie, you are one of the most inspirational people I know and you 'tell it like it is'. I LOVE that about you."
Tressa Marie: "Thank you so much, Susie and Roy, for all you do .... for us and for our animal friends. Much appreciation, love and respect to both of you always! You both are inspiring to so many!"
please consider purchasing my memoirs highlighting animal escapades and poignant tales of "coming of age"...a donation will be made to a divine NOKILL sanctuary, the SYMPHONY ANIMAL FOUNDATION, where no species is turned away...they all matter! each life is valuable!
Wonderful Symphony Animal Foundation board member Bob Wannberg commented about this article (click here): "Thank you Laraine, Roy, Susie and all who contribute to saving these animals; this is a wonderful article and so much appreciated. As an animal lover, advocate, volunteer, I love you all....No one could be more beautiful, nor have a bigger heart than Susie and Roy; and all of those buying Susie's Book during this 3 day period to help the animals at Symphony Animal Foundation; Laraine Russo Harper, Symphony's Founder, we love you for bringing this 'No Kill' Shelter and Sanctuary into reality, and the Volunteers who help you." Thank YOU, Bob, for all you do - you are a kind and tireless friend and advocate - we love you!
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
today i was alerted to the ponderings of a young housewife, someone whom I have never met so I do not know how to relay messages to her, someone writing about dead goldfish and detesting baby turtles? sometimes she makes me laugh, but "please don't eat the daisies" ain't me…I leave that to all of the erma bombeck wannabe folks!
…that girl even believes that boys will be boys and that bullying is cute and natural and jokes about it? and graphically discusses jock cups? so though she makes me laugh occasionally, she and I are not on the same page?
I am on the yellow brick road now!
dang, my friend mary shaull just perked me up beyond measure…and I am now "doctoring" as they say…and I have a potent tube of james mason medicine that is scaring the psoriasis right outta my … life…I hope I hope I hope! arghhhhhh.
me and the medical profession do not mix…but oh, them toxic drugs, baby…gimme some.
I keep words of praise in a tiny drawer after I print them out. I review them periodically so that I know I might exist…seriously! small-town america does not specialize in morale boosting…strange glares, yes…morale boosting, no
my mom was an absolute doll once upon a time…and when she was a widow, as they say a "sea-change" took her over and I barely recognized her behavior…others still thought highly of her but she manipulated us "kids" like there was no tomorrow…and others manipulated her as well for some motivation or other.
ah, the mysteries of aging and the stories of damage that emerge.
I really do not want to slip into her style that she seemed to acquire maybe from a sense of self-preservation. the stages of life are wacky and stifling…I like for the ride to be a blur.
SECOND DAY of our charity drive for Symphony Animal Foundation, a no kill shelter! Order your paperback copy of Susie Duncan Sexton's book "Secrets of an Old Typewriter" at www.open-bks.com, www.amazon.com, or www.susieduncansexton.com, and publisher Open Books will donate a $1 for every copy sold between December 6 and 9!
The gift will be made in memory of SAF board member Bob Wannberg's late brother Scott, a Los Angeles-based poet and friend of animals everywhere. Susie writes, "so delighted with the prospects of providing a sizeable donation to this noble, noble effort...animals do matter and deserve protection and nurturing and our everlasting respect! ♥!!!"
Click here to order!
if someone told me to put anybody to sleep to RIP and to cross the rainbow bridge, guess what? i'd spit on the paycheck and take the dog to a good home instead. what dolls...and what a crime to murder these beings all day long every day somewhere in this mixed-up world of ours!
Wonderful friend Bob Wannberg writes:
You know, I have commented on certain Volunteers for Symphony Animal Foundation, and they do deserve mention because they manage certain operations of the shelter and its outreach to the community; but I also realized just how very important each and every volunteer is that dedicates their time to helping Symphony and the animals, and all of the hours they put in, how they sacrifice their personal business and never complain about anything. It is amazing how good it feels to give back to others, and help these animals who can't help themselves - I write these comments because I am a volunteer, just like everyone else, and I feel a need to tell you how impoortant they are - and if my Brother Scott were still alive (this benefit is in his memory) he would do the same. Thank you Susie, Roy and David Ross for this wonderful benefit for Symphony.
[Click here for a video about the Foundation!]
When I first met Laraine Russo Harper, it was at the County Animal Shelter. I was going to foster a special needs dog that was about to be put down and Laraine was going to pay to get that little sweetie out! I was told to meet her at a certain time and there she was! I went to shake her hand and she stopped me saying 'Bob, I'm a hugger'! and that was my first hug from Laraine. Laraine hugs everyone she meets. She is truly an amazing woman who has a heart of gold. Laraine is someone who works nearly 70 to 80 hours a week, is a key member of the Southern Nye County Search and Rescue Team, and then I find that she herself gives back to numerous other Charities in the community.
So meet Laraine Russo Harper, the founder of Symphony Animal Foundation, a true animal lover and advocate, whose long time dream of saving these animals, eliminating 'Kill' Shelters and taking them off animal death row is coming true because of giving people like you. Thank you for helping these animals, if they could talk they would thank you. We won't let them down.
Jen Esch commented, "Just bought Susie's book in paperback through Amazon. Roy. is it possible to coordinate an interview / autograph with the author? ...Love you, too! And Susie! She's amazing!"
Mina Linda: "I totally agree with Susie ~ Who takes God's role and determines when someone dies? So wrong and so awful!!!"
Mary Shaull: "I so credit Roy and Susie for all the work and planning that has gone into this effort for the sake of animals. It all started with her determination to get her book published. No small feat! With Roy leading the cheering section, it is all happening!!! So proud of you both!"
Shannon Wright: "Susie, you are one of the most inspirational people I know and you 'tell it like it is'. I LOVE that about you."
Tressa Marie: "Thank you so much, Susie and Roy, for all you do .... for us and for our animal friends. Much appreciation, love and respect to both of you always! You both are inspiring to so many!"
please consider purchasing my memoirs highlighting animal escapades and poignant tales of "coming of age"...a donation will be made to a divine NOKILL sanctuary, the SYMPHONY ANIMAL FOUNDATION, where no species is turned away...they all matter! each life is valuable!
Wonderful Symphony Animal Foundation board member Bob Wannberg commented about this article (click here): "Thank you Laraine, Roy, Susie and all who contribute to saving these animals; this is a wonderful article and so much appreciated. As an animal lover, advocate, volunteer, I love you all....No one could be more beautiful, nor have a bigger heart than Susie and Roy; and all of those buying Susie's Book during this 3 day period to help the animals at Symphony Animal Foundation; Laraine Russo Harper, Symphony's Founder, we love you for bringing this 'No Kill' Shelter and Sanctuary into reality, and the Volunteers who help you." Thank YOU, Bob, for all you do - you are a kind and tireless friend and advocate - we love you!
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
Help support nokill Symphony Animal Foundation...
FIRST DAY of our charity drive for Symphony Animal Foundation, a no kill shelter! Order your paperback copy of Susie Duncan Sexton's book "Secrets of an Old Typewriter" at open-bks.com, amazon.com, or susieduncansexton.com, and publisher Open Books will donate a $1 for every copy sold between December 6 and 9!
The gift will be made in memory of SAF board member Bob Wannberg's late brother Scott, a Los Angeles-based poet and friend of animals everywhere. Susie writes, "so delighted with the prospects of providing a sizeable donation to this noble, noble effort...animals do matter and deserve protection and nurturing and our everlasting respect! ♥!!!"
Click here to order!
from Paro Babu: "Indeed we are blessed to have you, Susie ♥"
from Dee Turner: "... I've been doing animal rescue volunteer work for 20 yrs now. Until the shelter system is changed, the numbers will never go down. There are several cities around the world with an amazing record, like the Calgary model in Canada, for NO KILL which they have actually achieved. Now we just have to fix their Annual Rodeo & Stampedes!!!"
from Laraine Russo Harper: "Susie, there aren't enough words to express my sincere gratitude. You are a God-send....Just ordered my book. Can't wait to get it!!!"
from Gary Scott: "has some great reviews on amazon!"
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
The gift will be made in memory of SAF board member Bob Wannberg's late brother Scott, a Los Angeles-based poet and friend of animals everywhere. Susie writes, "so delighted with the prospects of providing a sizeable donation to this noble, noble effort...animals do matter and deserve protection and nurturing and our everlasting respect! ♥!!!"
Click here to order!
from Paro Babu: "Indeed we are blessed to have you, Susie ♥"
from Dee Turner: "... I've been doing animal rescue volunteer work for 20 yrs now. Until the shelter system is changed, the numbers will never go down. There are several cities around the world with an amazing record, like the Calgary model in Canada, for NO KILL which they have actually achieved. Now we just have to fix their Annual Rodeo & Stampedes!!!"
from Laraine Russo Harper: "Susie, there aren't enough words to express my sincere gratitude. You are a God-send....Just ordered my book. Can't wait to get it!!!"
from Gary Scott: "has some great reviews on amazon!"
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
December 3, 2012
what a fabulous holiday season that would be...
seriously...truly...honestly...how do we provide NOKILL shelters? as many animals as are killed every year, there are more than enough...far more than enough...homes which could add a dog or cat as a family member...
we could empty the cages tomorrow...and with responsible monitoring, stop this tragic second by second situation right this moment...please adopt and urge your friends and family members to do their wonderful part and adopt a shelter resident NOW!
what a fabulous holiday season that would be...the spirit of inclusiveness and love in action during this special season. think about it and act upon it and thanks! entirely possible... absolutely.
honestly...why not? why ever not? the solution is so simple.
from Bessie Cline Mounts: "So agree ...Sad but true ..And people act like the shelters are the ones killing them... When people are the ones who drop them off to be killed."
from Sher Lynn: "I have often pondered this conundrum myself, Susie...bottom line is its irresponsible people.. need mountainous efforts to bust puppy mills, stop puppy auctions, and make even responsible breeders stop for at least three years to help clean up this travesty ... the poor things have no time to find homes because of the volumes that come in to the shelters with limited space. oh this is all just so sad...I help at pet adoptions time to time and so sad how many people don't even know about 'rescues' still.. sigh..."
from Jessica Karla Stovall: "We need a mandatory spay and neuter law, but I won't see it in my lifetime."
from Diane Shenkman Baumgarten: "If only, we have to stop the madness"
from Kim Elizabeth Johnson: "However, shelters need to do more to promote adoptions!"
from Bj Bobbi Jo Rucker: "I wish there was a place here that fixed the dogs and cats more affordable (maybe there is now and I'm not aware of it?). My dogs have been fixed for a long while now, but I remember that before they could be fixed they had to have all their shots up to date. For those who live on farms and have farm cats mousing their barns and fields this is NOT an affordable option. To get 10 cats all vaccinated up to date and fixed just isn't possible unless one is rich. I've heard that in some other counties some of the vets do not require the animals to be up to date before they will fix the animal. I really respect the animal hospital in Fort Wayne that does that yearly five-cent-per-male-cat fixing. Because of them we were able to keep the cat population down on our farm. Now that we live in town it isn't as much of an issue thankfully. But don't be so quick to judge pet owners who don't fix their pets, some mean well and truly want to but cannot afford all the many shots and the surgery - not when every cat and dog from the country side decides to reside in their barn. I've had it happen many times. There was no way I could afford taking all those cats and dogs in to be shot up to date and then fixed. On farms, cats and dogs come and go like crazy. Country life is way different than the city life, especially when it comes to pets. The same goes for humans too; I wish there were more affordable options for some humans to get fixed too. lol (I personally know of some people who really need a good ol' fixing!)So, I really really wish there was an affordable option, locally, to getting one's pets fixed. I hate knowing there are tons of uncared for cats and dogs out there due to lack of affordable options in many cases."
from Annie Gagnon: "Dear Susie, Just wanted to say that sometimes it may feel you are fighting a losing battle, because it is such an enormous project, with so many needs; and a last resort for our precious animals that have been abandoned, or abused,and homeless. However, if you can look back and see how many you have helped, you know it is worth going on. Though it is a deeply painful project, it is rewarding in so many other ways! I have always felt myself to be an advocate for the animals who can really not communicate but by emotion, and facial expression; if anyone can't see the innocence and devotion in them, imagine, how do they feel about their fellow human being! Please carry on, and know that all your work is so special, and you and Roy are guardian angels for these lovely animals, love you both, your friend Annie <3"
from Bob Wannberg: "The effort to save these animals never ends, and often, we may become discouraged because it can be overwhelming; but each one we do save is a victory; a victory that would not have happened had it not been for your tireless efforts and love for these sweet animals. I sit here and look at one of my dogs and say 'you are a gift, a miracle of unconditional love' because someone cared! You are that someone. Don't give up! We stand with you and for you! One day, because of people like you, people like us, there will be no more animal death row. They will be healed , adopted to good, loving homes; and for those who can't be adopted, they will live good quality, full lives in the safe haven of 'No kill' Shelters and Sanctuaries."
from Kat Kelly-Heinzelman: "Susie you are angel on earth and you just keep on taking care of all of the animals...you are my kind of person...and I love you ....You too, Roy...such big hearts both of you!!!! You both do such wonderful jobs."
from fellow author David Rat: "Susie, we share the same soul when it comes to animals...peace"
____________________
In the spirit of the holidays, Open Books will donate $1 to the Symphony Animal Foundation for every copy sold of Susie's paperback Secrets of an Old Typewriter between December 6 and 9 from all online retailers (www.open-bks.com, www.amazon.com, www.susieduncansexton.com). Sexton says, “Animals are my heart and soul. Plain and simple. I am thrilled that my book is resonating so well with fellow animal lovers, and I am so grateful that we can do something with the book to help educate and support our animal friends.” (Read more coverage here...)
from Wendy Schmoll: "Thank you for the invite. I absolutely love get togethers for great causes. [tapping chin, thinking]. Anything I should virtually bring....coffee, tea, desserts? Or perhaps a whole bunch of virtual friends to purchase books?"
from Laraine Russo Harper: "On behalf of Symphony Animal Foundation, I can't thank you enough Susie!!!"
from Bob Wannberg: "May I Introduce Ms. Audrey Bayer who serves as Director of Equine Operations for SAF and has had over 25 years experience. Among her duties are such diverse activities as the planning, organization, management and care of all equine areas and horses at the Shelter. Ms. Bayer has been instrumental in the rescue and care of neglected and abused horses. Symphony Animal Foundation and their Intervention Team recently rescued over 26 horses that were well over 400 pounds underweight and most has intensive medical issues requiring immediate medical care. The cost of food, required special diets and medical care has been substantial to bring these horses back to health. Miraculously, not one of these horses was lost because of the emergency and long term care Symphony has and is providing. Thank you Audrey, Laraine Russo Harper and all of the many Volunteers who are there every day to feed and sustain these horses and provide a safe and secure loving environment."
from Irmgard Guters: "That's a great idea! ... I'm checking if I can order from Germany"
so delighted with the prospects of providing a sizeable donation to this noble, noble effort...animals do matter and deserve protection and nurturing and our everlasting respect! ♥!!!
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
we could empty the cages tomorrow...and with responsible monitoring, stop this tragic second by second situation right this moment...please adopt and urge your friends and family members to do their wonderful part and adopt a shelter resident NOW!
what a fabulous holiday season that would be...the spirit of inclusiveness and love in action during this special season. think about it and act upon it and thanks! entirely possible... absolutely.
honestly...why not? why ever not? the solution is so simple.
from Bessie Cline Mounts: "So agree ...Sad but true ..And people act like the shelters are the ones killing them... When people are the ones who drop them off to be killed."
from Sher Lynn: "I have often pondered this conundrum myself, Susie...bottom line is its irresponsible people.. need mountainous efforts to bust puppy mills, stop puppy auctions, and make even responsible breeders stop for at least three years to help clean up this travesty ... the poor things have no time to find homes because of the volumes that come in to the shelters with limited space. oh this is all just so sad...I help at pet adoptions time to time and so sad how many people don't even know about 'rescues' still.. sigh..."
from Jessica Karla Stovall: "We need a mandatory spay and neuter law, but I won't see it in my lifetime."
from Diane Shenkman Baumgarten: "If only, we have to stop the madness"
from Kim Elizabeth Johnson: "However, shelters need to do more to promote adoptions!"
from Bj Bobbi Jo Rucker: "I wish there was a place here that fixed the dogs and cats more affordable (maybe there is now and I'm not aware of it?). My dogs have been fixed for a long while now, but I remember that before they could be fixed they had to have all their shots up to date. For those who live on farms and have farm cats mousing their barns and fields this is NOT an affordable option. To get 10 cats all vaccinated up to date and fixed just isn't possible unless one is rich. I've heard that in some other counties some of the vets do not require the animals to be up to date before they will fix the animal. I really respect the animal hospital in Fort Wayne that does that yearly five-cent-per-male-cat fixing. Because of them we were able to keep the cat population down on our farm. Now that we live in town it isn't as much of an issue thankfully. But don't be so quick to judge pet owners who don't fix their pets, some mean well and truly want to but cannot afford all the many shots and the surgery - not when every cat and dog from the country side decides to reside in their barn. I've had it happen many times. There was no way I could afford taking all those cats and dogs in to be shot up to date and then fixed. On farms, cats and dogs come and go like crazy. Country life is way different than the city life, especially when it comes to pets. The same goes for humans too; I wish there were more affordable options for some humans to get fixed too. lol (I personally know of some people who really need a good ol' fixing!)So, I really really wish there was an affordable option, locally, to getting one's pets fixed. I hate knowing there are tons of uncared for cats and dogs out there due to lack of affordable options in many cases."
from Annie Gagnon: "Dear Susie, Just wanted to say that sometimes it may feel you are fighting a losing battle, because it is such an enormous project, with so many needs; and a last resort for our precious animals that have been abandoned, or abused,and homeless. However, if you can look back and see how many you have helped, you know it is worth going on. Though it is a deeply painful project, it is rewarding in so many other ways! I have always felt myself to be an advocate for the animals who can really not communicate but by emotion, and facial expression; if anyone can't see the innocence and devotion in them, imagine, how do they feel about their fellow human being! Please carry on, and know that all your work is so special, and you and Roy are guardian angels for these lovely animals, love you both, your friend Annie <3"
from Bob Wannberg: "The effort to save these animals never ends, and often, we may become discouraged because it can be overwhelming; but each one we do save is a victory; a victory that would not have happened had it not been for your tireless efforts and love for these sweet animals. I sit here and look at one of my dogs and say 'you are a gift, a miracle of unconditional love' because someone cared! You are that someone. Don't give up! We stand with you and for you! One day, because of people like you, people like us, there will be no more animal death row. They will be healed , adopted to good, loving homes; and for those who can't be adopted, they will live good quality, full lives in the safe haven of 'No kill' Shelters and Sanctuaries."
from Kat Kelly-Heinzelman: "Susie you are angel on earth and you just keep on taking care of all of the animals...you are my kind of person...and I love you ....You too, Roy...such big hearts both of you!!!! You both do such wonderful jobs."
from fellow author David Rat: "Susie, we share the same soul when it comes to animals...peace"
____________________
In the spirit of the holidays, Open Books will donate $1 to the Symphony Animal Foundation for every copy sold of Susie's paperback Secrets of an Old Typewriter between December 6 and 9 from all online retailers (www.open-bks.com, www.amazon.com, www.susieduncansexton.com). Sexton says, “Animals are my heart and soul. Plain and simple. I am thrilled that my book is resonating so well with fellow animal lovers, and I am so grateful that we can do something with the book to help educate and support our animal friends.” (Read more coverage here...)
from Wendy Schmoll: "Thank you for the invite. I absolutely love get togethers for great causes. [tapping chin, thinking]. Anything I should virtually bring....coffee, tea, desserts? Or perhaps a whole bunch of virtual friends to purchase books?"
from Laraine Russo Harper: "On behalf of Symphony Animal Foundation, I can't thank you enough Susie!!!"
from Bob Wannberg: "May I Introduce Ms. Audrey Bayer who serves as Director of Equine Operations for SAF and has had over 25 years experience. Among her duties are such diverse activities as the planning, organization, management and care of all equine areas and horses at the Shelter. Ms. Bayer has been instrumental in the rescue and care of neglected and abused horses. Symphony Animal Foundation and their Intervention Team recently rescued over 26 horses that were well over 400 pounds underweight and most has intensive medical issues requiring immediate medical care. The cost of food, required special diets and medical care has been substantial to bring these horses back to health. Miraculously, not one of these horses was lost because of the emergency and long term care Symphony has and is providing. Thank you Audrey, Laraine Russo Harper and all of the many Volunteers who are there every day to feed and sustain these horses and provide a safe and secure loving environment."
from Irmgard Guters: "That's a great idea! ... I'm checking if I can order from Germany"
so delighted with the prospects of providing a sizeable donation to this noble, noble effort...animals do matter and deserve protection and nurturing and our everlasting respect! ♥!!!
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
December 1, 2012
it is one tall order...
i am guessing that we need to feel as much pity for those who do not appreciate animals and nature and who do not practice gentleness toward other sentient beings as we do for their innocent victims.
but it is one tall order to forgive such behavior from thinking human beings. we need to reach those hardened hearts some way. still trying to figure out how to recruit more hearts to this noble cause. help?
This comment I received from Pamela Brokenwolf says it all: "THANK YOU SUSIE... EVIE IS MY ICON. THE ICON [Facebook] IS THE PICTURE OF EVIE AT THE SHELTER, THE PICTURE THAT BROKE MY HEART. IN THIS PHOTO SHE IS SITTING NEXT TO HER BROTHER LOOKING DOWN.. HE IS LOOKING IN THE CAMERA. I LOOK AT THEM NOW A YEAR LATER AS THEY LIE ON MY BED, JUST AS CLOSE AS THEY ARE IN THIS PHOTO.. AND I CRY. I CRY FOR ALL THE BELOVEDS THAT WILL NOT HAVE THE CHANCE TO LIE ON THE BED OR IN THE SUN OR TO BE LOVED... I GO TO BED CRYING MORE THEN I USED TO."
i am sharing on my facebook page today a number of animal orphans who were murdered since a letter to the editor yesterday outlined why animals do not matter and deserve to be shot...i cannot even respond to such hatefulness other than by sharing these beautiful faces on my facebook page for the better angels among us to see and to DO SOMETHING!
...my heart is broken...i know that we all feel this way. i am dying watching these animals die every day.
the letter in question appeared in my town paper...from an attorney...does not want to pay taxes to bail out our struggling shelter...a tea partier he is...new york would be easier to work with than small town rural america...i am about losing what mind i have left watching and enduring this narrow-minded, primitive mind-set.
...makes me feel a little saner to share with somebody somewhere...our tea partiers rail on and care about unborn babies but not about already born animals...and those people can get really nasty...really nasty. racism and speciesism and sexism are all ordained by the godly republicans...do they realize what havoc they are wreaking with their mindless chat?
As Kate Riviello observed, "All concerned tax payers should know that the no kill paradigm will SAVE TAX DOLLARS in the long run. Probably written by someone's relative in the good ole boy's club to keep his job at a pound. They also keep elected officials in office getting their kin to vote for the person who got them that job."
well said, Kate! animals and fairness and decency are my passions...i never give up...no matter what!
____________________
Thanks for this comment from Angel Mariani: "Yes, keep up the great work! You are also an 'angel' We must all keep fighting for them, network, share & PRAY for them all. Animals are my passion EVERYDAY!" Amen, Angel!
From Gobbler Goose: "This is one tall order for sure! The people that torture, abuse and mistreat animals have such hardened, cruel, sadistic, barbaric hearts that by the time you try to educate and reason with them, the barbaric cruelty still continues! All of God's creatures, from the very tiniest to the very largest have no voice against this unbearable cruelty! They are at our mercy and we must be their voice and advocates!"
Cindy Ducey: "Animals have so much love to give and don't ask for much in return.People don't realize what they are missing--A dog's tail wagging furiously when they first see you, a happy and joyful bark that you are home.I pity these people."
Kate Riviello: "The pics are incredible! and Susie has a way of putting an issue out there in plain terms!! Truly a gift!"
Angel Mariani: "I have NO tolerance for animal abusers....0! Not so sure I could forgive, that's a hard subject for me. I'll never understand how any human can hurt, torture, kill innocent helpless animals."
Nanette de Goede: "Susie, thank you so much for sharing again and I hope you do have a wonderful weekend !!! ♥♥ ... Susie, I'm absolutely sure that you are doing more than you do realize at this moment !!! ♥♥"
Paul Clifford Schrade: "I think it's high-time people start wagging their tails when they like somebody and wiggling their fannies when they feel excited,whether the fannies are opulent or non-existent! And what's a brief sojourn at the cuckoo-nest? The dogs have all the protocol down pat !! We're too strait-laced....Susie,your presence cannot be called solitary. I'm sot sure Susie Sexton could ever really know the definition of solitary. Solitary is an intruder in her life except for those divine moments when she needs to recycle herself so as to continue being the energizer battery in the lives of the four legged or anything that moves..{or even doesn't move)."
Diane Shenkman Baumgarten: "Dear Susie, I'm not a big enough person like you are; I feel nothing but hatred for abusive sub-humans....You posed the question the other day about how to educate people; this is the only way, let them see the horror people do. I don't think it will change these monsters, but maybe decent lawmakers will make better laws....I'm too old and fed up to feel any compassion for these scum. Sorry, but that's the way I feel."
Bob Wannberg: "Susie! what a gift you are and such an Angel for our animal friends everywhere! the work is vast but there you are, day and night, helping those who cannot help themselves. What would they do without you? and more so, what would we do without you? thank you for your passion, your love, your friendship; your willingness to give to help others. we are indeed blessed. Thank you."
Kat Kelly-Heinzelman: "keep up the good work, Roy and Susie."
Annie Gagnon: "May God Bless you and Roy for all you do; your work does not go unnoticed; such wonderful people to put so much work into helping our little furry friends; you will have special wings to fly to heaven; God knows who takes care of his babies, and you will be blessed! ... Over the years, I have had all strays, cats and dogs, over 25 of them, and they are the very best pets - and it always is rewarding, to help and see them make it. I miss that I am not capable anymore to do so, but if I did find a stray, I would take it in, and find a home for it; it's the right thing to do, and that is why I am so thankful for you and Roy doing what you do, because you reach the world and help all animals. That is so special, keep up the great work! ... I hope you have a very Merry Christmas!!!!!!! Love you both, Annie"
Shannon Basner: "As I have said earlier, it is those who are the kindest, most genuine that truly are the voice for the voiceless. That is true of you Susie. What a generous and thoughtful gesture to promote awareness. This is such a positive way to help people understand and show them that everyone can help in their own way."
Shannon Wright: "You are the greatest, Susie!"
Wendy Schmoll: "Good morning. Hey, great 'place' you've got here. Glad I stopped by after seeing your banner promo on a friend's wall. My son & I are currently fostering/hospicing a senior husky named Perry. We'll gladly share your info on both my personal page & Perry's Place. Nice to meet you! Hope all is well in your world! ♥"
In the spirit of the holidays, Open Books will donate $1 to the Symphony Animal Foundation for every copy sold of Susie's paperback Secrets of an Old Typewriter between December 6 and 9 from all online retailers (www.open-bks.com, www.amazon.com, www.susieduncansexton.com). Sexton says, “Animals are my heart and soul. Plain and simple. I am thrilled that my book is resonating so well with fellow animal lovers, and I am so grateful that we can do something with the book to help educate and support our animal friends.” (Read more coverage here...)
Bob Wannberg: "Thank you so much Susie, Roy, and Laraine Russo Harper (Founder of Symphony Animal Foundation). Your never ending work for these wonderful animals will save thousands from unnecessary abuse and euthanasia - and- let's not forget Colleen Landay, whose tireless work for Symphony as Volunteer Coordinator brings this all together in unison for the animals at SAF and all of the SAF Volunteers. Thank you Colleen; AND the support of those contributing to this just and compassionate cause; the animals thank you; for the love you are all giving them, they unconditionally give you back; each and everyone one of you. Thank you so much! Please support these animals in need by making a purchase of Susie's Book. 'Secrets of an Old Typewriter' December 6th through the 9th at any on-line site."
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
but it is one tall order to forgive such behavior from thinking human beings. we need to reach those hardened hearts some way. still trying to figure out how to recruit more hearts to this noble cause. help?
This comment I received from Pamela Brokenwolf says it all: "THANK YOU SUSIE... EVIE IS MY ICON. THE ICON [Facebook] IS THE PICTURE OF EVIE AT THE SHELTER, THE PICTURE THAT BROKE MY HEART. IN THIS PHOTO SHE IS SITTING NEXT TO HER BROTHER LOOKING DOWN.. HE IS LOOKING IN THE CAMERA. I LOOK AT THEM NOW A YEAR LATER AS THEY LIE ON MY BED, JUST AS CLOSE AS THEY ARE IN THIS PHOTO.. AND I CRY. I CRY FOR ALL THE BELOVEDS THAT WILL NOT HAVE THE CHANCE TO LIE ON THE BED OR IN THE SUN OR TO BE LOVED... I GO TO BED CRYING MORE THEN I USED TO."
i am sharing on my facebook page today a number of animal orphans who were murdered since a letter to the editor yesterday outlined why animals do not matter and deserve to be shot...i cannot even respond to such hatefulness other than by sharing these beautiful faces on my facebook page for the better angels among us to see and to DO SOMETHING!
...my heart is broken...i know that we all feel this way. i am dying watching these animals die every day.
the letter in question appeared in my town paper...from an attorney...does not want to pay taxes to bail out our struggling shelter...a tea partier he is...new york would be easier to work with than small town rural america...i am about losing what mind i have left watching and enduring this narrow-minded, primitive mind-set.
...makes me feel a little saner to share with somebody somewhere...our tea partiers rail on and care about unborn babies but not about already born animals...and those people can get really nasty...really nasty. racism and speciesism and sexism are all ordained by the godly republicans...do they realize what havoc they are wreaking with their mindless chat?
As Kate Riviello observed, "All concerned tax payers should know that the no kill paradigm will SAVE TAX DOLLARS in the long run. Probably written by someone's relative in the good ole boy's club to keep his job at a pound. They also keep elected officials in office getting their kin to vote for the person who got them that job."
well said, Kate! animals and fairness and decency are my passions...i never give up...no matter what!
____________________
Thanks for this comment from Angel Mariani: "Yes, keep up the great work! You are also an 'angel' We must all keep fighting for them, network, share & PRAY for them all. Animals are my passion EVERYDAY!" Amen, Angel!
From Gobbler Goose: "This is one tall order for sure! The people that torture, abuse and mistreat animals have such hardened, cruel, sadistic, barbaric hearts that by the time you try to educate and reason with them, the barbaric cruelty still continues! All of God's creatures, from the very tiniest to the very largest have no voice against this unbearable cruelty! They are at our mercy and we must be their voice and advocates!"
Cindy Ducey: "Animals have so much love to give and don't ask for much in return.People don't realize what they are missing--A dog's tail wagging furiously when they first see you, a happy and joyful bark that you are home.I pity these people."
Kate Riviello: "The pics are incredible! and Susie has a way of putting an issue out there in plain terms!! Truly a gift!"
Angel Mariani: "I have NO tolerance for animal abusers....0! Not so sure I could forgive, that's a hard subject for me. I'll never understand how any human can hurt, torture, kill innocent helpless animals."
Nanette de Goede: "Susie, thank you so much for sharing again and I hope you do have a wonderful weekend !!! ♥♥ ... Susie, I'm absolutely sure that you are doing more than you do realize at this moment !!! ♥♥"
Paul Clifford Schrade: "I think it's high-time people start wagging their tails when they like somebody and wiggling their fannies when they feel excited,whether the fannies are opulent or non-existent! And what's a brief sojourn at the cuckoo-nest? The dogs have all the protocol down pat !! We're too strait-laced....Susie,your presence cannot be called solitary. I'm sot sure Susie Sexton could ever really know the definition of solitary. Solitary is an intruder in her life except for those divine moments when she needs to recycle herself so as to continue being the energizer battery in the lives of the four legged or anything that moves..{or even doesn't move)."
Diane Shenkman Baumgarten: "Dear Susie, I'm not a big enough person like you are; I feel nothing but hatred for abusive sub-humans....You posed the question the other day about how to educate people; this is the only way, let them see the horror people do. I don't think it will change these monsters, but maybe decent lawmakers will make better laws....I'm too old and fed up to feel any compassion for these scum. Sorry, but that's the way I feel."
Bob Wannberg: "Susie! what a gift you are and such an Angel for our animal friends everywhere! the work is vast but there you are, day and night, helping those who cannot help themselves. What would they do without you? and more so, what would we do without you? thank you for your passion, your love, your friendship; your willingness to give to help others. we are indeed blessed. Thank you."
Kat Kelly-Heinzelman: "keep up the good work, Roy and Susie."
Annie Gagnon: "May God Bless you and Roy for all you do; your work does not go unnoticed; such wonderful people to put so much work into helping our little furry friends; you will have special wings to fly to heaven; God knows who takes care of his babies, and you will be blessed! ... Over the years, I have had all strays, cats and dogs, over 25 of them, and they are the very best pets - and it always is rewarding, to help and see them make it. I miss that I am not capable anymore to do so, but if I did find a stray, I would take it in, and find a home for it; it's the right thing to do, and that is why I am so thankful for you and Roy doing what you do, because you reach the world and help all animals. That is so special, keep up the great work! ... I hope you have a very Merry Christmas!!!!!!! Love you both, Annie"
Shannon Basner: "As I have said earlier, it is those who are the kindest, most genuine that truly are the voice for the voiceless. That is true of you Susie. What a generous and thoughtful gesture to promote awareness. This is such a positive way to help people understand and show them that everyone can help in their own way."
Shannon Wright: "You are the greatest, Susie!"
Wendy Schmoll: "Good morning. Hey, great 'place' you've got here. Glad I stopped by after seeing your banner promo on a friend's wall. My son & I are currently fostering/hospicing a senior husky named Perry. We'll gladly share your info on both my personal page & Perry's Place. Nice to meet you! Hope all is well in your world! ♥"
In the spirit of the holidays, Open Books will donate $1 to the Symphony Animal Foundation for every copy sold of Susie's paperback Secrets of an Old Typewriter between December 6 and 9 from all online retailers (www.open-bks.com, www.amazon.com, www.susieduncansexton.com). Sexton says, “Animals are my heart and soul. Plain and simple. I am thrilled that my book is resonating so well with fellow animal lovers, and I am so grateful that we can do something with the book to help educate and support our animal friends.” (Read more coverage here...)
Bob Wannberg: "Thank you so much Susie, Roy, and Laraine Russo Harper (Founder of Symphony Animal Foundation). Your never ending work for these wonderful animals will save thousands from unnecessary abuse and euthanasia - and- let's not forget Colleen Landay, whose tireless work for Symphony as Volunteer Coordinator brings this all together in unison for the animals at SAF and all of the SAF Volunteers. Thank you Colleen; AND the support of those contributing to this just and compassionate cause; the animals thank you; for the love you are all giving them, they unconditionally give you back; each and everyone one of you. Thank you so much! Please support these animals in need by making a purchase of Susie's Book. 'Secrets of an Old Typewriter' December 6th through the 9th at any on-line site."
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
November 21, 2012
Homeward Angle: FILING FOLDERS FULL OF…FRIENDS!
FILING FOLDERS FULL OF…FRIENDS! By Susie Duncan Sexton
[View scanned copy of column and photos by clicking here...and enjoy this radio interview between Susie and Wild Time Radio's Thomas Janak on animal rights by clicking here]
Seriously, where oh where are Ralph Bailey, Gordon and Brian Anspach, Evelyn Stemen, Phil Leininger, Nancy Schwartz, Mary Ann Poffenberger Briggs, Bob Kellogg, Dr. Jules Heritier, Steve Jones and Lucy Langohr Grant? For a while they enjoyed spending some time paper-clipped together in a grouping which facilitated my awareness of their location. Eventually these people dispersed and got filed into manila folders. At that particular juncture, I lost track of each of them.
Ah, Mrs. Stemen (maiden name Leininger) reappeared with these penned thoughts via the neatest 2010 letter: "Your last couple of columns have been a delight to read, making me appreciate my childhood, too." Evelyn mentions: "yell leaders…friendly classmate Jack Cook…Leininger Grocery Store shopping on Saturday evenings…Shelly Stemen's drugstore's tin roof sundaes…the Klondike store…a favorite cream-colored skirt and aqua blouse purchased from Blumenthal's…mysteries of Rhodes Tavern…playing cornet at the bandstand on the court house lawn!" This sweet person I rediscovered under "S" in my filing cabinet -- tucked away, with one of my scissored out newspaper columns entitled "Snow Globes, Grapevines, & Hockey Pucks"! Stemen? Snow Globes? Found under "S"! Makes some kind of Sense?
Bob Kellogg's many spirited messages certainly deserve to be collected under the letter "K" denoting not only "kind" but "kinetic". Found him under "M" alphabetized and categorized in a folder tagged "Mad Men & Musicals -- in the Good Old Summertime"! (He'd once participated in a barbershop quartet featured in "The Music Man" and described that hilarious experience graphically!) Bob e-mails to me nostalgic accounts including such familiar local names as Peggy Morsches (offering hot chocolate to a frost-bitten Post & Mail carrier of age 10 named Bob Kellogg!), a Mr. Knowles inviting Bob to a father-son banquet at the Methodist Church, the Hancock family, Jim Adams, and working for Mary Hallowell delivering Journal Gazettes and News-Sentinels. "Mary ran the Garden Gift Shop with her partner, Lana Gilchrist. Mary was quite well known and respected in Columbia City, having been a School Principal with the Whitley County system. Mary and Lana lived together on a farm on the left side of State Rd 109 a mile north of the current US 30 bypass. I worked for them as a paper boy and also did some odd jobs for them on their farm. They raised purebred Kerry Blue Terrier dogs and had a horse as well."
"Mr. Roy Duncan stepped out on his porch one Sunday morning as I delivered his paper and asked me if I had a summer job. He suggested I stop by the Blue Bell plant and put in an application. It felt good to know the community was so supportive and that people were concerned about me." Bob currently lives in Greensboro, North Carolina, retired now from a successful lifetime career as an executive with Blue Bell, Incorporated, yet writes, "Columbia City will always be 'My Home Town'!”
During this manic pursuit of my scant, modest collection of fan mail, I eventually encountered a note from childhood pal Nancy Sevits Schwartz who offered this thought: "I too have spent my entire life in Whitley County…my childhood on Chauncey Street. Since I am from the same era, I can remember everything that you write about, and some of the things I had forgotten until I read your articles. Thanks for letting me wander down memory lane, or should I say, 'Silk Stocking Row' ?"
Chief of Police Gordon Anspach -- via his son Brian -- speaks to me from 1968 in a hilarious contract, between Gordon and my dad, resembling a promissory note stating formally that IF the Chief gained enough weight to tip the scales at 187 rather than 157, his reward would be one dollar per each pound added to his slender frame. A postscript reads: "For any of the Blue Bell officials, Chief will use the '1,2,3 system' -- in other words if we go thru a red light one time, that will be one time; if we go thru two times, that will be the second time; and the third time, he will collect for all three." Exactly what type of clandestine activity transpired as a result of this document, I have not the slightest idea…but I have filed this transaction with my Blue Bell memorabilia for posterity's sake. My forays into the factory's history prompted Brian to share this memento with me for my…files!
Regarding Ralph Bailey who merely suggested that I someday mention his name in my column? I am happy to do so. Actually, Ralph is also filed away since that afternoon in 1990 when he requested that high school junior Roy Sexton deliver an extremely lengthy letter my dad had once written to the superintendent, and the back and forth correspondence which had ensued between the two of them, to "Mom Susie". Gratified with the treasured clump of ephemera, I misplaced it immediately…probably for eternity.
Mary Ann Briggs and Lucy Grant praised my efforts once or twice…and I value their opinions as they are both homegrown, Columbia City educated, impressive geniuses whose judgment calls should never be challenged. I only wish their complimentary remarks were written in stone!
This present discussion -- of my painstaking paper chase while rifling through every filing cabinet in my home (which is in and of itself nothing but…a filing cabinet) -- I attribute to a request from a gracious, witty, affable gentleman named Phil Leininger, son of druggist George Leininger, whom I referred to in a recent column as the proprietor of the Columbia Drug store. Phil, a retired engineer with Shell Oil Company, writes to me often whether by snail mail from Illinois or e-mail and commenced doing so only recently, urging me to investigate which of his kin (Uncle John BTW and Aunt Mabel Waterfall Leininger) may have built my current house and then get back with him, post abstract search!
Thanks to an effusive, constant correspondence with Phil L. (who is probably related to Evelyn Stemen), my "Phil" folder is currently filled to overflowing with his cousin Jules Heritier, Uncle Steve Jones, Merle Anthes pictured in LIFE Magazine while resting on a cot waiting for Lloyd C. Douglas' "White Banners" movie's World Premiere at Columbia Theater, Columbia Drug store window decorator Ruth Wolford, his class-mates Evelyn Zumbrun and Gayle Brumbaugh Schinbeckler and Ruth Roberts Beers and Ruby Jagger Sherman, George's partner Paul Pinckly, mention of Phil as drum major of the national award winning local high school band leading the parade to the RR station to see author Douglas off, and some super new pen pals -- consisting of Leininger kin -- via cyberspace.
Especially heart-warming are two testimonials on behalf of George Leininger. "I am happy that you and my dad Phil have connected! I had encouraged him to either write to the newspaper or e-mail you. I read your article and was happy to read about my grandfather George. I'm so glad this has happened!" ~ Maury Reynolds (Phil's daughter) "Phil's father…a dear, sweet, gentle, pleasant man…a favorite relative." ~ Mary Shaull (Phil's cousin)
Now, all I need to do is locate a newspaper, featuring the local Blue Bell plant and its operations, that I supposedly borrowed from plant employee/ popular photographer Don York a mere…25 years ago? Wish me luck! Access "Blue Bell Factory Revisited", Whitley Co. Historical Society Bulletin, February 1987, on my website at www.susieduncansexton.com. "Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart & Sassy Small Town Girl" can be ordered by visiting my website or at www.open-bks.com or any other online retailer. When purchased from Dec. 6-9, a portion of the paperback proceeds will be donated to Symphony Animal Foundation.
____________________
In the spirit of the holidays, Open Books will donate $1 to the Symphony Animal Foundation for every copy sold of Susie's paperback Secrets of an Old Typewriter between December 6 and 9 from all online retailers (www.open-bks.com, www.amazon.com, www.susieduncansexton.com). Sexton says, “Animals are my heart and soul. Plain and simple. I am thrilled that my book is resonating so well with fellow animal lovers, and I am so grateful that we can do something with the book to help educate and support our animal friends.” (Read more coverage here...)
____________________
absolutely loving these comments! thank you, all!
Jeanne Swanson Tison: "Susie, we had fun too! Your book signing was so fun. I really enjoyed listening to you read from your book. It made the story come alive. You, Don and Roy are very special people!"
Mary Shaull: ""Wow! Just listened to Susie's Wild Time Radio interview. Now I really know her! Impressive! She does have amazing IMPACT on anyone who reads or hears her. You go, Girl! XXX...I don't know HOW she does it!!!! Her energy is unbelievable. I can feel it way up here in Michigan. I feel so honored to be part of the tribe."
Hugh Louis Gregson: "I only live a few miles from the old Blue Bell headquarters, so I guess some of us accidentally end up 'back home?' [although i was born and raised many miles east of here] ~ enjoying your work, cousin Susie! xox"
Claudia Heritier Braman: "Thank you soooooo much for this article. It's amazing!!! ... Susie, I have been so blessed to read your work!"
Anthony Marr: "Thank you, Susie! Great interview by Thomas Janak ... bless you both!"
Pat Heinbaugh: "You 'bout got the whole town, Miss Susie:)"
Kathi Weiss: "saw the letter to editor about you and deer hunting. Keep up your good work!...you know... the pen really is mightier than the sword. Grateful you are in our world!"
Paro Babu: "No doubt Susie is an amazing writer and great animal lover...moreover she is a wonderful person and a very caring human.... ♥ you, Susie ♥"
Mina Linda: "Really fabulous ~ Susie is amazing, real animal lover ♥"
Tressa Marie: "I agree with Mina 100%!! ♥"
Beverley Holden: "Bravo, Susie!"
Jacalyn Jazzymarie Walters: "Have an safe and awesome Thanksgiving, everyone! I knew Susie Sexton for almost three years now! What a doll she is! Helped me through the toughest times ever!! Love her! I didn't know that two people that doen't live in the same town nor state can grow a high connection not only with dogs but with ourselves! So glad I met her!"
Bob Wannberg: "Thank you, Susie and Roy, a wonderful interview and mention of Symphony Animal Foundation. Scott loved animals; you know he always had a box of biscuits wherever he worked, just in case a four-legged friend walked in the door! He would be proud of this effort and donation drive for Symphony. you are the best!...What a great interview, Roy and Susie!! And thank you for the personal mention and the news about the Symphony Animal Foundation December 6-9 Donation Drive where a portion of every book sold is donated to Symphony, more-so the animals thank you. Symphony has been the dream of Laraine Russo Harper for many years, and finally, there will be a 'No Kill' facility in Pahrump, Nevada that will take in any domestic animal and they will receive the love and care they deserve! We can't thank you enough!...A nice mention of Symphony @ 45:50 as well, a great interview of Susie and her book that is receiving rave reviews! We can't wait until December 6th to see the love and support for Symphony; thank you, Roy and Susie, and thank you, Laraine, for all you do for the animals!"
Bev J. Sexton: "Thanks, Roy....my goodness, your Mom sure is prolific. How in the world does she remember all of these scenarios and people? I am impressed!"
Paul Clifford Schrade: "May the pilgrims flock around SUSIE and present her with her own Plymouth Rock!!"
Akiko Motomura: "Thank you, Roy. I am very honored to be mentioned by Susie. However, I wonder in what context she tried to mention me though. It was nice to hear her voice, too! :-)...Wow, what a compliment from a famous author! Don't know if I am doing anything really.... I'm only following my heart and taking advantage of FB. Love to you both. xx"
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
[View scanned copy of column and photos by clicking here...and enjoy this radio interview between Susie and Wild Time Radio's Thomas Janak on animal rights by clicking here]
Seriously, where oh where are Ralph Bailey, Gordon and Brian Anspach, Evelyn Stemen, Phil Leininger, Nancy Schwartz, Mary Ann Poffenberger Briggs, Bob Kellogg, Dr. Jules Heritier, Steve Jones and Lucy Langohr Grant? For a while they enjoyed spending some time paper-clipped together in a grouping which facilitated my awareness of their location. Eventually these people dispersed and got filed into manila folders. At that particular juncture, I lost track of each of them.
Ah, Mrs. Stemen (maiden name Leininger) reappeared with these penned thoughts via the neatest 2010 letter: "Your last couple of columns have been a delight to read, making me appreciate my childhood, too." Evelyn mentions: "yell leaders…friendly classmate Jack Cook…Leininger Grocery Store shopping on Saturday evenings…Shelly Stemen's drugstore's tin roof sundaes…the Klondike store…a favorite cream-colored skirt and aqua blouse purchased from Blumenthal's…mysteries of Rhodes Tavern…playing cornet at the bandstand on the court house lawn!" This sweet person I rediscovered under "S" in my filing cabinet -- tucked away, with one of my scissored out newspaper columns entitled "Snow Globes, Grapevines, & Hockey Pucks"! Stemen? Snow Globes? Found under "S"! Makes some kind of Sense?
Bob Kellogg's many spirited messages certainly deserve to be collected under the letter "K" denoting not only "kind" but "kinetic". Found him under "M" alphabetized and categorized in a folder tagged "Mad Men & Musicals -- in the Good Old Summertime"! (He'd once participated in a barbershop quartet featured in "The Music Man" and described that hilarious experience graphically!) Bob e-mails to me nostalgic accounts including such familiar local names as Peggy Morsches (offering hot chocolate to a frost-bitten Post & Mail carrier of age 10 named Bob Kellogg!), a Mr. Knowles inviting Bob to a father-son banquet at the Methodist Church, the Hancock family, Jim Adams, and working for Mary Hallowell delivering Journal Gazettes and News-Sentinels. "Mary ran the Garden Gift Shop with her partner, Lana Gilchrist. Mary was quite well known and respected in Columbia City, having been a School Principal with the Whitley County system. Mary and Lana lived together on a farm on the left side of State Rd 109 a mile north of the current US 30 bypass. I worked for them as a paper boy and also did some odd jobs for them on their farm. They raised purebred Kerry Blue Terrier dogs and had a horse as well."
"Mr. Roy Duncan stepped out on his porch one Sunday morning as I delivered his paper and asked me if I had a summer job. He suggested I stop by the Blue Bell plant and put in an application. It felt good to know the community was so supportive and that people were concerned about me." Bob currently lives in Greensboro, North Carolina, retired now from a successful lifetime career as an executive with Blue Bell, Incorporated, yet writes, "Columbia City will always be 'My Home Town'!”
During this manic pursuit of my scant, modest collection of fan mail, I eventually encountered a note from childhood pal Nancy Sevits Schwartz who offered this thought: "I too have spent my entire life in Whitley County…my childhood on Chauncey Street. Since I am from the same era, I can remember everything that you write about, and some of the things I had forgotten until I read your articles. Thanks for letting me wander down memory lane, or should I say, 'Silk Stocking Row' ?"
Chief of Police Gordon Anspach -- via his son Brian -- speaks to me from 1968 in a hilarious contract, between Gordon and my dad, resembling a promissory note stating formally that IF the Chief gained enough weight to tip the scales at 187 rather than 157, his reward would be one dollar per each pound added to his slender frame. A postscript reads: "For any of the Blue Bell officials, Chief will use the '1,2,3 system' -- in other words if we go thru a red light one time, that will be one time; if we go thru two times, that will be the second time; and the third time, he will collect for all three." Exactly what type of clandestine activity transpired as a result of this document, I have not the slightest idea…but I have filed this transaction with my Blue Bell memorabilia for posterity's sake. My forays into the factory's history prompted Brian to share this memento with me for my…files!
Regarding Ralph Bailey who merely suggested that I someday mention his name in my column? I am happy to do so. Actually, Ralph is also filed away since that afternoon in 1990 when he requested that high school junior Roy Sexton deliver an extremely lengthy letter my dad had once written to the superintendent, and the back and forth correspondence which had ensued between the two of them, to "Mom Susie". Gratified with the treasured clump of ephemera, I misplaced it immediately…probably for eternity.
Mary Ann Briggs and Lucy Grant praised my efforts once or twice…and I value their opinions as they are both homegrown, Columbia City educated, impressive geniuses whose judgment calls should never be challenged. I only wish their complimentary remarks were written in stone!
This present discussion -- of my painstaking paper chase while rifling through every filing cabinet in my home (which is in and of itself nothing but…a filing cabinet) -- I attribute to a request from a gracious, witty, affable gentleman named Phil Leininger, son of druggist George Leininger, whom I referred to in a recent column as the proprietor of the Columbia Drug store. Phil, a retired engineer with Shell Oil Company, writes to me often whether by snail mail from Illinois or e-mail and commenced doing so only recently, urging me to investigate which of his kin (Uncle John BTW and Aunt Mabel Waterfall Leininger) may have built my current house and then get back with him, post abstract search!
Thanks to an effusive, constant correspondence with Phil L. (who is probably related to Evelyn Stemen), my "Phil" folder is currently filled to overflowing with his cousin Jules Heritier, Uncle Steve Jones, Merle Anthes pictured in LIFE Magazine while resting on a cot waiting for Lloyd C. Douglas' "White Banners" movie's World Premiere at Columbia Theater, Columbia Drug store window decorator Ruth Wolford, his class-mates Evelyn Zumbrun and Gayle Brumbaugh Schinbeckler and Ruth Roberts Beers and Ruby Jagger Sherman, George's partner Paul Pinckly, mention of Phil as drum major of the national award winning local high school band leading the parade to the RR station to see author Douglas off, and some super new pen pals -- consisting of Leininger kin -- via cyberspace.
Especially heart-warming are two testimonials on behalf of George Leininger. "I am happy that you and my dad Phil have connected! I had encouraged him to either write to the newspaper or e-mail you. I read your article and was happy to read about my grandfather George. I'm so glad this has happened!" ~ Maury Reynolds (Phil's daughter) "Phil's father…a dear, sweet, gentle, pleasant man…a favorite relative." ~ Mary Shaull (Phil's cousin)
Now, all I need to do is locate a newspaper, featuring the local Blue Bell plant and its operations, that I supposedly borrowed from plant employee/ popular photographer Don York a mere…25 years ago? Wish me luck! Access "Blue Bell Factory Revisited", Whitley Co. Historical Society Bulletin, February 1987, on my website at www.susieduncansexton.com. "Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart & Sassy Small Town Girl" can be ordered by visiting my website or at www.open-bks.com or any other online retailer. When purchased from Dec. 6-9, a portion of the paperback proceeds will be donated to Symphony Animal Foundation.
____________________
In the spirit of the holidays, Open Books will donate $1 to the Symphony Animal Foundation for every copy sold of Susie's paperback Secrets of an Old Typewriter between December 6 and 9 from all online retailers (www.open-bks.com, www.amazon.com, www.susieduncansexton.com). Sexton says, “Animals are my heart and soul. Plain and simple. I am thrilled that my book is resonating so well with fellow animal lovers, and I am so grateful that we can do something with the book to help educate and support our animal friends.” (Read more coverage here...)
____________________
absolutely loving these comments! thank you, all!
Jeanne Swanson Tison: "Susie, we had fun too! Your book signing was so fun. I really enjoyed listening to you read from your book. It made the story come alive. You, Don and Roy are very special people!"
Mary Shaull: ""Wow! Just listened to Susie's Wild Time Radio interview. Now I really know her! Impressive! She does have amazing IMPACT on anyone who reads or hears her. You go, Girl! XXX...I don't know HOW she does it!!!! Her energy is unbelievable. I can feel it way up here in Michigan. I feel so honored to be part of the tribe."
Hugh Louis Gregson: "I only live a few miles from the old Blue Bell headquarters, so I guess some of us accidentally end up 'back home?' [although i was born and raised many miles east of here] ~ enjoying your work, cousin Susie! xox"
Claudia Heritier Braman: "Thank you soooooo much for this article. It's amazing!!! ... Susie, I have been so blessed to read your work!"
Anthony Marr: "Thank you, Susie! Great interview by Thomas Janak ... bless you both!"
Pat Heinbaugh: "You 'bout got the whole town, Miss Susie:)"
Kathi Weiss: "saw the letter to editor about you and deer hunting. Keep up your good work!...you know... the pen really is mightier than the sword. Grateful you are in our world!"
Paro Babu: "No doubt Susie is an amazing writer and great animal lover...moreover she is a wonderful person and a very caring human.... ♥ you, Susie ♥"
Mina Linda: "Really fabulous ~ Susie is amazing, real animal lover ♥"
Tressa Marie: "I agree with Mina 100%!! ♥"
Beverley Holden: "Bravo, Susie!"
Jacalyn Jazzymarie Walters: "Have an safe and awesome Thanksgiving, everyone! I knew Susie Sexton for almost three years now! What a doll she is! Helped me through the toughest times ever!! Love her! I didn't know that two people that doen't live in the same town nor state can grow a high connection not only with dogs but with ourselves! So glad I met her!"
Bob Wannberg: "Thank you, Susie and Roy, a wonderful interview and mention of Symphony Animal Foundation. Scott loved animals; you know he always had a box of biscuits wherever he worked, just in case a four-legged friend walked in the door! He would be proud of this effort and donation drive for Symphony. you are the best!...What a great interview, Roy and Susie!! And thank you for the personal mention and the news about the Symphony Animal Foundation December 6-9 Donation Drive where a portion of every book sold is donated to Symphony, more-so the animals thank you. Symphony has been the dream of Laraine Russo Harper for many years, and finally, there will be a 'No Kill' facility in Pahrump, Nevada that will take in any domestic animal and they will receive the love and care they deserve! We can't thank you enough!...A nice mention of Symphony @ 45:50 as well, a great interview of Susie and her book that is receiving rave reviews! We can't wait until December 6th to see the love and support for Symphony; thank you, Roy and Susie, and thank you, Laraine, for all you do for the animals!"
Bev J. Sexton: "Thanks, Roy....my goodness, your Mom sure is prolific. How in the world does she remember all of these scenarios and people? I am impressed!"
Paul Clifford Schrade: "May the pilgrims flock around SUSIE and present her with her own Plymouth Rock!!"
Akiko Motomura: "Thank you, Roy. I am very honored to be mentioned by Susie. However, I wonder in what context she tried to mention me though. It was nice to hear her voice, too! :-)...Wow, what a compliment from a famous author! Don't know if I am doing anything really.... I'm only following my heart and taking advantage of FB. Love to you both. xx"
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
November 20, 2012
i want this on my tombstone...
about facebook...
i try my best...what is neat about these homeless/shelter animal posts on facebook is most of them contain the "share" word...and we don't have to stand on our heads and click the photo to get to that "share" word...i love that.
and i do know how to spell "join", too. thanks to my fellow cross-posters for all that you do...what we do makes a difference...i know that it does!
...i figure that the sharing folks like us do gets tabulated via facebook mechanisms now and whoever posted can tell that we shared. i also comment sometimes so that angels know somebody else is contributing and helping so that people who care as much as we do do not get discouraged...apathy is the enemy...and apathy is everywhere these days...totally dismaying.
in the face of apathy, our biggest roadblock, we must never stop doing what we do...because i actually believe the "angels" team might be the popular team one day really soon!!! i seriously believe that is the reason facebook matters...this huge enimal effort! bless all of us who do this!
i want this on my tombstone....that i tried to save as many lives as i possibly could for as long as i could...what other reason are we alive ourselves for but to extend a hand to help those whom far too many ignore and fail to empathize with? people who care and share give me faith in humanity and keep me at this day in and day out!!!!!
____________________
In the spirit of the holidays, Open Books will donate $1 to the Symphony Animal Foundation for every copy sold of Susie's paperback Secrets of an Old Typewriter between December 6 and 9 from all online retailers (www.open-bks.com, www.amazon.com, www.susieduncansexton.com). Sexton says, “Animals are my heart and soul. Plain and simple. I am thrilled that my book is resonating so well with fellow animal lovers, and I am so grateful that we can do something with the book to help educate and support our animal friends.” (Read more coverage here...)
NEAT comments!
Mary Beth Purdy-Artz: "Susie, You are beautiful. ♥"
Lee Tobar: "I love my rescue Sophie. She has become my confidant, body pillow, tear-kisser-awayer and life companion."
Justine Trowbridge: "Yes, yes, yes. We are not here to accumulate wealth and/or power. We are here to love and learn and help each other. And LIVE. We are here to live our lives and enjoy that life with others."
Shannon Basner: "Or as a friend said, how they rescued us!"
Mary Shaull: "Good epitaph. I wrote a poem for my tombstone: 'How shall I be remembered?/Perhaps not One who Dared,/But hopefully, remember me/As one who loved and cared.' i envy Susie, as SHE dared!...Sunday's Cipherquote puzzle said, 'Life is not important, except the impact it has on other lives.' No mention of author. You, Susie, have impacted a LOT of lives. Good Girl."
Jessica Karla Stovall: "Frustration will be my epitaph!"
Tressa Marie: "Love the pictures in there too!"
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
i try my best...what is neat about these homeless/shelter animal posts on facebook is most of them contain the "share" word...and we don't have to stand on our heads and click the photo to get to that "share" word...i love that.
and i do know how to spell "join", too. thanks to my fellow cross-posters for all that you do...what we do makes a difference...i know that it does!
...i figure that the sharing folks like us do gets tabulated via facebook mechanisms now and whoever posted can tell that we shared. i also comment sometimes so that angels know somebody else is contributing and helping so that people who care as much as we do do not get discouraged...apathy is the enemy...and apathy is everywhere these days...totally dismaying.
in the face of apathy, our biggest roadblock, we must never stop doing what we do...because i actually believe the "angels" team might be the popular team one day really soon!!! i seriously believe that is the reason facebook matters...this huge enimal effort! bless all of us who do this!
i want this on my tombstone....that i tried to save as many lives as i possibly could for as long as i could...what other reason are we alive ourselves for but to extend a hand to help those whom far too many ignore and fail to empathize with? people who care and share give me faith in humanity and keep me at this day in and day out!!!!!
____________________
In the spirit of the holidays, Open Books will donate $1 to the Symphony Animal Foundation for every copy sold of Susie's paperback Secrets of an Old Typewriter between December 6 and 9 from all online retailers (www.open-bks.com, www.amazon.com, www.susieduncansexton.com). Sexton says, “Animals are my heart and soul. Plain and simple. I am thrilled that my book is resonating so well with fellow animal lovers, and I am so grateful that we can do something with the book to help educate and support our animal friends.” (Read more coverage here...)
NEAT comments!
Mary Beth Purdy-Artz: "Susie, You are beautiful. ♥"
Lee Tobar: "I love my rescue Sophie. She has become my confidant, body pillow, tear-kisser-awayer and life companion."
Justine Trowbridge: "Yes, yes, yes. We are not here to accumulate wealth and/or power. We are here to love and learn and help each other. And LIVE. We are here to live our lives and enjoy that life with others."
Shannon Basner: "Or as a friend said, how they rescued us!"
Mary Shaull: "Good epitaph. I wrote a poem for my tombstone: 'How shall I be remembered?/Perhaps not One who Dared,/But hopefully, remember me/As one who loved and cared.' i envy Susie, as SHE dared!...Sunday's Cipherquote puzzle said, 'Life is not important, except the impact it has on other lives.' No mention of author. You, Susie, have impacted a LOT of lives. Good Girl."
Jessica Karla Stovall: "Frustration will be my epitaph!"
Tressa Marie: "Love the pictures in there too!"
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
