Bonnie Folz, coordinator of the Vivi search, sent this recap of a recent Team Vivi meeting to be posted to the list.
Vivi, ever the iconoclast, seems to have traveled back to the JFK Airport area. So much for the theory that aliens transported her from South Jamaica to northern Queens.
As Bonnie notes in these minutes, she will be sending me a weekly update to post to this blog.
On a personal note, it is my hope that this blog be a source of help, not hindrance, to the Vivi search. Reading various posts (not to mention some off-list emails that float my way), I sometimes wonder.
<<Minutes of the Team Vivi Meeting
May 25th, 2006
Meeting was attended by:
Bonnie, Honi, Rosa, Tina, Kathy, Gail & Shirley (Gail’s mom)
Bonnie, Honi, Rosa, Tina, Kathy, Gail & Shirley (Gail’s mom)
Where’s Vivi – Recent Sightings
5/18/06 3:30am Brookville Blvd & So Conduit Ave., Rosedale
5/22/06 11:00pm 105th Ave. & Sutphin Blvd., So. Jamaica
5/23/06 3:00pm 144th St. & 119th Ave, So. Jamaica
5/18/06 3:30am Brookville Blvd & So Conduit Ave., Rosedale
5/22/06 11:00pm 105th Ave. & Sutphin Blvd., So. Jamaica
5/23/06 3:00pm 144th St. & 119th Ave, So. Jamaica
Overview of Vivi’s Travels
If Vivi has traveled back into this area (which is close to JKF airport) she may be traveling in a large circle and hopefully will come back into the Kissena Park area. She seems to be heading North-West.
If Vivi has traveled back into this area (which is close to JKF airport) she may be traveling in a large circle and hopefully will come back into the Kissena Park area. She seems to be heading North-West.
Where to Next? Posters / Flyers
Where to Next? Posters / Flyers
Help is needed putting up posters and flyers north-west of 105 Ave & Sutphin Blvd. In the towns of Jamaica, Briarwood, etc… Maple Grove Cemetery, Mt. Hebron/Cedar Grove Cemetery, also York College and St. John’s University might be good areas to consider posting. Kathy will hit the areas by Maple Grove Cemetery, Mt. Hebron/Cedar Grove Cemetery, also York College and St. John’s University would be helpful. Bonnie will contact volunteer, Lynn Veitch, horse trainer, to revisit Aqueduct Racetrack in the hopes that Vivi remembers her days at the stables back home and wanders over that way.
Where to Next? Posters / Flyers
Help is needed putting up posters and flyers north-west of 105 Ave & Sutphin Blvd. In the towns of Jamaica, Briarwood, etc… Maple Grove Cemetery, Mt. Hebron/Cedar Grove Cemetery, also York College and St. John’s University might be good areas to consider posting. Kathy will hit the areas by Maple Grove Cemetery, Mt. Hebron/Cedar Grove Cemetery, also York College and St. John’s University would be helpful. Bonnie will contact volunteer, Lynn Veitch, horse trainer, to revisit Aqueduct Racetrack in the hopes that Vivi remembers her days at the stables back home and wanders over that way.
Feeding Stations
At this time, until more sightings come in, there are no set areas to place feeding stations. Feeding stations must also be monitored on a daily basis or at least, every other day. Using fine sand, flour or a mixture of both to confirm whom it is eating from those stations. A buddy system will be implemented amongst the available volunteers to monitor whatever stations get set up. Gail will continue to replenish the feeding stations in the College Point area in the hopes that Vivi makes her way back there.
At this time, until more sightings come in, there are no set areas to place feeding stations. Feeding stations must also be monitored on a daily basis or at least, every other day. Using fine sand, flour or a mixture of both to confirm whom it is eating from those stations. A buddy system will be implemented amongst the available volunteers to monitor whatever stations get set up. Gail will continue to replenish the feeding stations in the College Point area in the hopes that Vivi makes her way back there.
Expert consultations – Al Borgal, Michael McCann, etc…
Of all the experts that have been consulted, Karin Goin, Laura Totis, Sam Connelly, Al Borgal and Michael McCann, they've basically said the same thing. Continue to get the word out about Vivi still being missing by keeping up the posters and flyers.
Of all the experts that have been consulted, Karin Goin, Laura Totis, Sam Connelly, Al Borgal and Michael McCann, they've basically said the same thing. Continue to get the word out about Vivi still being missing by keeping up the posters and flyers.
We are hoping to have Al Borgal, from the Animal Rescue League in Boston, or Michael McCann, greyhound rescuer, who has written numerous articles on finding and capturing lost greyhounds and has helped over 200 families and adoption groups organize searches, and captures of lost or loose hounds, may pay us a visit (once a few more sightings come in) to advise on the best areas for feeding stations and how to proceed.
Vivi’s season – possible puppies?
Vivi is due to come into season end of June/July. This could possibly work in our favor to find her. However, with the stress of being out on her own may alter her heat cycle.
Vivi is due to come into season end of June/July. This could possibly work in our favor to find her. However, with the stress of being out on her own may alter her heat cycle.
Jil’s wishes – ads, tracking dogs, trappers, etc…
I spoke to Jil by phone to ask how she’s like to proceed. Jil does not want any more tracking dogs brought in as she feels they may be pushing Vivi away. Having the dogs here can only confirm where Vivi has been, it will NOT tell us where she is.
I spoke to Jil by phone to ask how she’s like to proceed. Jil does not want any more tracking dogs brought in as she feels they may be pushing Vivi away. Having the dogs here can only confirm where Vivi has been, it will NOT tell us where she is.
Jil also did not feel newspaper ads are needed and thinks the posters & flyers would be more beneficial. I understand Meri-Lou from the blog has numerous ads running in various publications and the bills for these ads will add up very quickly (over $1,000.00 per month). There are newspapers that offer free ads for lost dogs, Newsday and the Queens Pennysaver, Bonnie will contact Meri-Lou to advise her.
As far as trappers go, Jil is very concerned that a trapper will hunt Vivi and possibly push her into a situation that could harm her. No trappers are to be hired.
As far as trappers go, Jil is very concerned that a trapper will hunt Vivi and possibly push her into a situation that could harm her. No trappers are to be hired.
Suggestions & Ideas
Thanks to some “Vivi Well Wishers” and volunteers from afar, I received many responses to my request for suggestions on how to find Vivi or have her find us. Copies of the suggestions have been made for the Team members to review but at this time, the course of action will continue to be putting up posters & flyers in the surrounding areas the Vivi has been sighted.
Thanks to some “Vivi Well Wishers” and volunteers from afar, I received many responses to my request for suggestions on how to find Vivi or have her find us. Copies of the suggestions have been made for the Team members to review but at this time, the course of action will continue to be putting up posters & flyers in the surrounding areas the Vivi has been sighted.
Supplies needed – restock?
Due to conflicting schedules on when flyers are available for pick-up, we will ask Diane to ship flyers/staples/tape out to Debbie & Darlene when needed. Having the flyers continue to be shipped from all of the wonderful volunteers from afar to Diane so she can double check for information accuracy, is important as she apparently received a batch with misinformation at one time. Addresses for Debbie & Darlene need to be obtained.
Due to conflicting schedules on when flyers are available for pick-up, we will ask Diane to ship flyers/staples/tape out to Debbie & Darlene when needed. Having the flyers continue to be shipped from all of the wonderful volunteers from afar to Diane so she can double check for information accuracy, is important as she apparently received a batch with misinformation at one time. Addresses for Debbie & Darlene need to be obtained.
Honi will contact Brian to see if he would be able to get the two-sided postcards printed. One side with Vivi’s basic flyer information, and the other with guidelines on “What to do if you see Vivi”.
A generous supply of flour, fine sand, dog food, stinky bait, water and food pans are needed so each volunteers will have a supply for their feeding stations. Bonnie will hit the stores as soon as possible.
Honi will order stinky bait when needed and solicit dog food distributors and manufacturers to help supply the food for the feeding stations, which would help to keep that cost down. We need to find out what Vivi was being fed so hopefully we can supply the feeding stations with “food from home” so to speak.
Honi will order stinky bait when needed and solicit dog food distributors and manufacturers to help supply the food for the feeding stations, which would help to keep that cost down. We need to find out what Vivi was being fed so hopefully we can supply the feeding stations with “food from home” so to speak.
The Vivi fund – reimbursements
Donations to the Vivi fund are now just trickling in with maybe one check per week. There’s about $12,000.00 currently in the fund, though this may seem like a lot of money, depending on what is needed and how it is spent, the fund can become depleted very quickly. This fund was set up to help the volunteers pay for supplies, flyers, gas, etc. to find Vivi. What this money is spent on must be realistic, especially if Vivi is still gone 3 months from now. We have no idea what kind of costs may be incurred as we continue to search. Reimbursements for gas and supplies purchased by the Vivi Team will be made promptly once receipts are turned in/mailed in to Honi. We must remember this fund account is a spin off from Bobbi & The Strays. Bobbi was kind enough to offer her non-profit charter so the fund could be set up. Monies cannot be given to anyone without the proper back-up for tax purposes, etc. We will not do anything to jeopardize Bobbi’s charter.
Donations to the Vivi fund are now just trickling in with maybe one check per week. There’s about $12,000.00 currently in the fund, though this may seem like a lot of money, depending on what is needed and how it is spent, the fund can become depleted very quickly. This fund was set up to help the volunteers pay for supplies, flyers, gas, etc. to find Vivi. What this money is spent on must be realistic, especially if Vivi is still gone 3 months from now. We have no idea what kind of costs may be incurred as we continue to search. Reimbursements for gas and supplies purchased by the Vivi Team will be made promptly once receipts are turned in/mailed in to Honi. We must remember this fund account is a spin off from Bobbi & The Strays. Bobbi was kind enough to offer her non-profit charter so the fund could be set up. Monies cannot be given to anyone without the proper back-up for tax purposes, etc. We will not do anything to jeopardize Bobbi’s charter.
The Blog – info in / info out
There is a total lack of communication between those volunteers from afar that are on the blog and some of the Vivi Team here in NY. There are many on the Vivi Team that do not go on the blog and some that do not even turn on their computers. Misinformation is spread very quickly and assumptions are made with out really knowing what’s going on. Personalities being very different among so many people (the blog folks and those on the Vivi Team) sometimes leads to dissension. Someone may take something the wrong way or speak to someone on a bad day and that person is then shunned. We are ALL together here for the same reason, TO FIND VIVI. We must never lose sight of that and need to learn how to communicate as a team. If you hear something about someone, please do not take what was said and run with it. If you have a question about what was said, go directly to that person to find out and confirm it instead of speculating or taking something out of context. There are always two sides to every story.
There is a total lack of communication between those volunteers from afar that are on the blog and some of the Vivi Team here in NY. There are many on the Vivi Team that do not go on the blog and some that do not even turn on their computers. Misinformation is spread very quickly and assumptions are made with out really knowing what’s going on. Personalities being very different among so many people (the blog folks and those on the Vivi Team) sometimes leads to dissension. Someone may take something the wrong way or speak to someone on a bad day and that person is then shunned. We are ALL together here for the same reason, TO FIND VIVI. We must never lose sight of that and need to learn how to communicate as a team. If you hear something about someone, please do not take what was said and run with it. If you have a question about what was said, go directly to that person to find out and confirm it instead of speculating or taking something out of context. There are always two sides to every story.
Bonnie will have Denise Flaim post an update on a weekly basis for those Vivi volunteers from afar. If there’s any info someone from the NY Vivi Team want to add, please contact Bonnie and it will be added into the post. Bo will also be asked to add his thoughts and update the AWC site.
Communication with Team Vivi
It seems that Rosa’s phone rings non-stop, day and night, more so from other volunteers and Vivi Team members inquiring info on recent sightings, where to go to post flyers, etc. Rosa & Tina have a life besides Vivi and it is not fair that their phone ring at 11:30pm for a volunteer to ask about sightings and chat. Rosa & Tina both wake up at 4:15am to start their day. Please DO NOT call Rosa or Tina after 9pm unless you have a sighting or information to give them that cannot wait till the morning.
It seems that Rosa’s phone rings non-stop, day and night, more so from other volunteers and Vivi Team members inquiring info on recent sightings, where to go to post flyers, etc. Rosa & Tina have a life besides Vivi and it is not fair that their phone ring at 11:30pm for a volunteer to ask about sightings and chat. Rosa & Tina both wake up at 4:15am to start their day. Please DO NOT call Rosa or Tina after 9pm unless you have a sighting or information to give them that cannot wait till the morning.
With that said, we have come up with a buddy call system for the core Vivi Team volunteers, so Rosa is not bombarded with calls throughout the day and all team members know first hand what's going on and when. This is not cut in stone and was put together with those that attended the meeting so if there's a problem we can revise it.
When Rosa gets a call for a sighting, she will call Bonnie & Gail.
If Bonnie gets a call she will call Rosa & Gail
Gail will then call Kathy and Audrey
Kathy should call Debbie
Debbie call Darlene
Darlene call Linda
Bonnie will call Barbie & Honi
Honi call Barbara-Jean & Diane.
If Bonnie gets a call she will call Rosa & Gail
Gail will then call Kathy and Audrey
Kathy should call Debbie
Debbie call Darlene
Darlene call Linda
Bonnie will call Barbie & Honi
Honi call Barbara-Jean & Diane.
We do need to swap phone numbers and times of the day each is available. Everyone within the team should have eachothers cell phone number.
Schedules / availability - who, when, where...
Please remember, we have not posted the exact sightings on line and have asked that they remain that way for a day or so. We are trying to prevent those interested in hunting Vivi, for the reward only, to converge on the area before it can be canvassed by one of the volunteers.
Please remember, we have not posted the exact sightings on line and have asked that they remain that way for a day or so. We are trying to prevent those interested in hunting Vivi, for the reward only, to converge on the area before it can be canvassed by one of the volunteers.
I repeatedly get calls from volunteers telling me they want to come down to help and when I tell them the areas we need to get the posters and flyers up they ask where Vivi was last sighted cause THAT'S where they want to go. We must try to stay ahead of where Vivi is going and not trail behind her. Please let whomever you speak to know flyers and posters is what is needed in specific areas. That's not to say don't look for her while your out but please go to the area that needs help the most.
I've asked Rosa to refer any calls requesting where to go post to me so I can provide an area that needs posting. Please, team members, let me know where you feel she may be heading and clue me in to where you've been out posting so we can work together as a team.
Another thought.
Though I forgot to bring this up at the meeting, I'd like your feedback on it now. In order to "stay connected" with the Team Vivi core members, I suggest we put a yahoo group together for core members only, that we can communicate between us and not have to worry about what info we post. We can use it as a reporting tool, sightings, what areas were posted, need to be posted and to relay thoughts and info that would be helpful in finding Vivi. Please let me know your thoughts.
Though I forgot to bring this up at the meeting, I'd like your feedback on it now. In order to "stay connected" with the Team Vivi core members, I suggest we put a yahoo group together for core members only, that we can communicate between us and not have to worry about what info we post. We can use it as a reporting tool, sightings, what areas were posted, need to be posted and to relay thoughts and info that would be helpful in finding Vivi. Please let me know your thoughts.
Appreciation
Jil, Paul and Bo all emailed me and ask that I relay their thanks and gratitude to all those that continue to volunteer their time to help find Vivi. They are amazed at the continued effort put forth and are at a loss as to how to convey their appreciation other than to say "Thank you."
Jil, Paul and Bo all emailed me and ask that I relay their thanks and gratitude to all those that continue to volunteer their time to help find Vivi. They are amazed at the continued effort put forth and are at a loss as to how to convey their appreciation other than to say "Thank you."
Respectfully submitted by Bonnie Folz, Vivi Search Coordinator.
Team Vivi Volunteers, you are the best!!!
Keep the faith. We will find her.>>
Keep the faith. We will find her.>>
Comments (265)
I liked hearing that Michael McCann may come to NY to help with the search. I hope that happens... he has a lot of experience to offer.
I for one am glad there is this information being posted on the updates of the Vivi search. As a dog lover, I feel for her owners and know the angst of a lost dog. One of these days I will get on here to find Vivi has been caught and is back in the arms of her people! Keep up the good work all!
I think this is great. I wish they had done this three months ago. You know how that saying goes Better late than never.
Marty....read Bonnies minutes again.Notice who WASN'T in attendance. Notice also that it basically says "just keep posting flyers". Thats the big plan. Some of what Bonnie states i.e. feeding stations was implemented already by the volunteers without her help or fund. Bonnie doesn't even know where the feeding stations are. Since when does Meri-Lou need 'advise'? And finally...take a good look at the amount of money in the fund. Would your dog still be lost in dog fighting territory 3 1/2 months later if you had that kind of dough to spend finding him/her? Didn't think so!
The money needs to be spent realistcly now! I just don't get it. 3 mos from now, is that a joke? She'll be loaded with ticks and have puppies by than if she survives the dog attacks, and they will get her once she is cornered. So let's see...dog attacks, pregnant, ticks sucking the blood out of her, birth of the pups. And if she survives it, well enough to get up and maybe find some maggot infested food to eat and stagnet bug infested water to drink, forget about feeding the pups. Yes, I agree...sit on the money you might it need 3 mos from now to throw the Vivi party!!
I am totally disgusted by that, and damn glad I'm not part of the Elite Vivi Team..I'll continue to work with the people that aren't worried about the money, just the dog. I'll continue to spend my own money for Vivi just as I have in the past.
Almost four months and still no concrete plan from them...nothing at all...at least we are trying.
Hey Audrey!! Haven't seen you here in awhile. Wasn't posting this on the blog deplorable?
Audrey
I agree with you and Gail 100%. I was just saying it's about time they do something other than what they've been doing. I too will continue spending my own money for ViVi as I have in the past. It's ashame they have that much money and don't want to use it now.
AUDREY:
Right on, Audrey! You've said everything many of us have known and felt for the past almost 4 months. It makes me angry, sad and sick to think of what has gone on here...so many wonderful and compassionate people working their butts off and trying to find Vivi, not with the help of the "people in charge", but IN SPITE OF THEM!
Marty....glad to see that you are on the same page as us. You know...the ones that actually leave their houses and DO things to help find ViVi.
Audrey,
I've been on the same page with the real volunteers from day one and don't ever doubt it. You took my comment the wrong way.
Yes, Audrey!....the people who actually GET OUT of their cars and stuff mailboxes and post flyers...who care for the feeding and baiting stations and walk miles trying to find Vivi...and who respond to sightings at all hours!
The so-called "people in charge" have to LEAD, FOLLOW OR GET THE HELL OUT OF THE WAY!
I vote for GET OUT OF THE WAY, Irene!
I know everyone is upset about Vivi being gone so long. I am too. We all need to take a step back, and realize that EVERYONE who has been out to help with Vivi, has done what they can. NOONE has been able to get her, not even the volunteers who want nothing to do with the TEAM. Its been a long sad struggle trying to get her, but NOONE has had any luck. I see alot of people are being judgmental, but she is still out there, even with you looking for her. I have been out too, traveled MANY miles to get there to help, but I sure wouldnt blame Bonnie or the Team, because I didnt get get her. We are all here for Vivi, lets keep going positive for her!
Just imagine how upset her owners and breeders must be after all this time. We all feel so sad and helpless, but guess what, she isn't ours, we haven't whelped her, held her, loved her, watched her whelp her babies, thrilled at her many wins in the show ring.
It is a fact that she does not want to be caught, she is wild now. Experts that know far more than any of us have said over and over it is virtually impossible to catch Vivi until the time is right. We cannot make the time right, it will just happen when least expected.
Just exactly what do you all want them to spend the 12 grand on? Do you think for one second if there was any possible way that money would get her back, they wouldn't spend it?
If anyone is reading the list or watching TV, Fox News is having an update on Vivi in a few minutes - just announced they would discuss after the break.
I just caught it, perfect timing. It was on because you asked Very Good
I always wish for a peaceful solution, but I'm afraid in this situation I must somewhat side with the volunteers. This post is insulting to the people who have worked so hard for Vivi. The funds need to be spent helping with their expenses for sure. The posting of ads to help locate Vivi is a much better spending of this fund than the helicopter ride for Rick when he was here. Did they really think anything would be accomplished with this helicopter? An already nervous dog would run from the sound of a helicopter for sure.
Owners and Elite Team Vivi, you need to have ALL the people involved at this meeting. You need to listen to these people who have been working and learned along the way. Their work (and the work of those out-of-town communicating with businesses, etc.) is what will bring Vivi home (before she is either dead from diseases or hit by a vehicle - yes, let's be realistic). Vivi needs help NOW - not a wait and see attitude. This will not work. Break into those funds and let's truly get this show on the road looking for Vivi before it is too late.
Thank you, but this is just not a feasible solution from your minutes and meeting. It is no more than saying the same thing you have been saying in a little bit different manner. And that will not work.
Hugs from Kathleen and Tinkerbell
If anyone saw the Fox News update, will you post it please? Nothing on Fox here in California that I saw. (o:
MaryL-California
It was on Fox's "because you asked" segment. Showed picture of Vivi with Bo, and kept showing another Whippet at a dog show that was clearly not Vivi. However, they reminded people when/how she went missing, talked about all the volunteers helping to find her, and showed clips from some of the previous news coverage. Showed the posters, etc.
Nicely written post.
Interesting to say the least. I'm almost speechless but I think the majority of you all know me better. I'm going to say my peace - go ahead and let the arrows fly - believe it or not, my skin has thickened in these past THREE MONTHS.
1. What took so long? It took the team "leaders" three months to figure out that their foot soldiers needed leadership? Congratulations on doing something that needed to be done three months ago. Granted, hind sight is 20/20, hopefully mistakes can be learned from and the action plans in the future won't take so long to implement. I think it is a great idea that you are thinking of putting together a blog for "core" volunteers. I don't consider myself to be one so I'm not expecting any invitation. Perhaps (if the bridges have not already been burned to the point past repairing) you can get the "offshoots" that already exist to come together as one.
2. Why is it that the only time the "official" Vivi funds are discussed is when The Blog talks about reinstating the "un-official" Vivi fund? Mind you, I am not complaining, I would much prefer the funds be sent to New York - close to the action and where people might actually need it. The only problem has been (if I understand correctly) these funds are rarely being released for anything other than reimbursing gas-type expenses. There are no pro-active type expenditures (flyers, distribution of flyers, printing costs). I may be (and I hope I am) wrong.
3. With reference to "The Blog Info In and Out" comment... There are many other sources to information relating to the Vivi search than this blog. I honestly do not believe that people come to this particular blog anymore looking for information other than to see, if by chance, Vivi has been caught (although the newcomers might). The "other" websites and private emails are the ones where I get the pertinent information from - who needs what and where should it be sent to.
4. Why would anyone want to stop advertising the fact that their dog is lost? Any lost-dog related web site or pet detective web site I have visited suggests this as a way to keep the word out. If there are volunteers willing to help foot the bill for these advertising costs, why not let them? How could it "hurt"?
I want this dog found as much as anyone. I really do hope that the organizers of the search have finally come together as a functioning entity. I hope that the local searchers are happy with how the meeting progressed and that they now feel that they have the resources to back them for their common goal.
Have a safe Memorial Day! If you are drinking wine and eating chocolate (or sloppysetta) don't drive! :)
Lois
Linda NH.....a wild dog doesn't come up to people walking their dogs on the street.This happened numerous times and not that long ago either. Aren't you the one who was here and told us all to give up a few weeks ago? I hope you take your own advice when one of your pets becomes lost.
Hey Audrey hey Gail what's up, the meeting was last week and noone contacted Darlene or myself to get our addresses for supplies, hey we weren't even at the meeting so how did we get nominated, I have supplies. As far as phone communication I asked on the the blog weeks ago for everyones cell number so we could be in contact and would know who was out at what time. This whole thing has turned into a circus, thank god our foot soldiers have good communication between us.
Linda NH...I'm not sure where you are coming from...? Maybe I misread your post...
How in the world, if the volunteers stopped posting and the advertisements were stopped and the "877" number was shut down, would anyone ever know that Vivi was still missing and how would anyone know who to call if she were ever found?
How would that be a positive approach to finding a dog? Please enlighten me.
Debbie dahhhlllliiinnnggg. Don't you know that you are a core member and shouldn't be posting on this blog? :)
LB
Hey Deb....and the strangest thing of all in this circus is the fact that I was out searching one night a few weeks ago when a siting came in to Bonnie. Can you believe she called someone else INSTEAD of Rosa? I was less than half a mile away from the siting at the time but didn't get the message till 5 hours later.Seems the coordinator didn't follow her own 'plan'.Imagine how frustrating that was!
Debbie, I hope you know I am kidding. You can post whereever you want!
Hey Lois I am so sorry for posting, I guess I should be out posting flyers and dripping is sweat like Darlene was this morning at 6:30 in the bad areas, now that's a trooper, poor thing pouring water down her back all for the love of getting this dog home, and guess what we will be out tomorrow night again in the bad area if anyone cares to join us for a bit.
Audrey I don't know why you ddn't get the call you were our night girl from the lists that we have, WOW you could have possibly seen vivi, you were first on our night list.
Debbie, you are forgiven... :) Is it hot there too? We broke a record yesterday - 98 degrees. I'm not liking it...
Lois, Audrey, etc.
I never, ever said to give up on Vivi, posting flyers, searching, getting the word out should continue until the day her people no longer have any hope.
The Full Circle post said they are using funds to reimburse searchers, people posting flyers, materials etc.
I didn't see anything about them not doing that.
And I never told anyone to give up on Vivi a few weeks ago. What I said was after being aware of the thousands of acres and after hearing people on hear saying they were having nervous breakdowns, depression, not able to work.....they should try to continue on with their lives along with doing what was sensible for Vivi.
And Audrey, if any of my pets were lost, I would never give up and neither would my hundreds of dog friends.
Audrey,
Anyone on this list should know what I am referring to when I said Vivi has become a "wild" dog ...call her what you want...she does NOT trust humans and will not be caught unless it is HER decision.
Now if you ladies want HOT, come to Memphis, TN. We are now in the 90's almost daily, and will soon be in temps over 100 daily. Along with that, we have this "wonderful" (ha, ha) high humidity that takes your breath away. No wonder the doctors here get rich off of sinus problems.
Sometimes I wonder why I have stayed here all my life. Either crazy or there is something to that thing called "roots."
Debbie and Darlene - You have my admiration for posting flyers, etc. in that heat! Thank you.
Speaking as an out of towner, who is very concerned for Vivi's sake, it is really heartbreaking that the owner and the people that were put in "charge" are making finding Vivi harder, difficult and impossible and whidtholding money that can be put towards any kind of plan "SPEAKS ABSOLUTE VOLUMES"!!
Just from reading this blog from day one I have finally come to the conclusion FINDING VIVI IS NOT IN THEIR BEST INTEREST!!!
Jil mentioned on a news clip when she was in New York that she was going to postpon her wedding till Vivi was found? She must not be in any hurry to really get married, is the conclusion I have come to.. You can beat me up all you want, if you cannot figure this out by now you never will...
These people who are in "CHARGE" are supposed to be dog lovers?
I DON'T Think sooooo!!!!
and if you are prove it!! at this point Vivi's best chance is to cross paths with the people out there beating the pavement for her! I wonder how happy the people in "CHARGE" will be once she is actually found? It seems like the opposite is their goal!
So to you foot soldiers who never give up! MORE POWER TO YOU!!!! I support you in spirit, Vivi is a loose stray and no one can tell you to stop looking! I thank you for that from the bottom of my heart!! VIVA LA VIVI!!! Rosa in Michigan
Rosa in Michigan - I think you are voicing what a lot of people have been feeling for a while. I try to make myself believe otherwise, but this same question does keep going through my head as well.
As a dog owner who absolutely adores her little Tinkerbell, I can tell you I would be responding entirely different as an owner than what I have witnessed. And I can assure you I would be "on the blog" participating - not waiting for someone to call me and tell me what was happening with my dog. I just cannot understand this lack of communication between the owners and these volunteers about Vivi. I would at least be on there every night asking what was needed and thanking everyone personally - to me this is no more than common courtesy.
Deb...Diane hasn't contacted you yet? Hmmm...maybe she got wind of the fact that the coordinators called her a 'poster boy' and that 'she wasn't one of the elite'at the meeting. Think that could be the reason she didn't contact you?
OKAY, ROSA!
PLUG IN THE CHOCOLATE FOUNTAIN....MY SLURPY CUP IS STAPLED TO MY WRIST AND READY TO ROCK 'N ROLL HERE!
Vivi is not a "WILD" dog...she is a frightened, hungry little dog who has no compass cause she is 3000 miles from home....I do believe she is doing what most lost dogs try to do...smell and scent their way to familiar places and eventually, home!
Nothing here is familiar...not the terrain, not the smells, not the people and not the weather!!
In spite of all of these factors, she has approached people several times, mainly children who are smaller and seem less threatening.
We cannot just keep hoping for sightings and then not making a concerted effort to rein her in...we don't have enough people here to do that...many times, people are at work when she is spotted! It's hours before people can get to the location and it's too late. Professional help that can stay with this search needs to be hired....we are losing Vivi and her future is grim....sorry, people, that's reality and everyone needs to face it! One person responding to a sighting area will not catch her...a group has to go and WE DON'T HAVE THE PEOPLE AVAILABLE TO DO THAT...Find a way to add to the number of dedicated volunteers even if they have to be paid! If not, you will be using the $12,000 to start a Memorial Fund for Vivi! I don't want that to happen!
To see posted that "if Vivi is still there 3 months from now...." made me physically ill! Stop worrying if she's out there 3 months from now, use the money you have for a practical and NOW way to get her off these streets!
Well I am glad I am not alone. Another question where is Brian Rosembaum? has he washed his hands of this? and is there anything legall that could be done with the money we raised on blog that Honi controls?
Irene, I am plugged in to everything I really am about to blow! I need chocolate, wine, you name it.. I am so fustrated with the lack of concern for this dog from the people in California, Like I said actions wich haven't been much speak Volumes!!!!
Rosa
Wake up people! That is the reality, and I don't even have a third eye, a crystal ball, or Dione Worwick as a friend!!!!
Thanks Irene - I agree. Let's be realistic, three months from now we may not have Vivi alive to search for. We need this search in full-throttle NOW.
Irene, your first paragraph was so truthful about Vivi that it brought tears to my eyes. Can you imagine the fright this little creature is going through out there with nothing familiar to cling to. PLEASE get the help the volunteers need to save Vivi before it is too late. PLEASE!
"Vivi is not a "WILD" dog...she is a frightened, hungry little dog who has no compass cause she is 3000 miles from home....I do believe she is doing what most lost dogs try to do...smell and scent their way to familiar places and eventually, home!
Nothing here is familiar...not the terrain, not the smells, not the people and not the weather!!"
ROSA:
I wish I could get a CHOCOLATE IV! Yes, I am no psychic but I can tell you this little whippet is in SERIOUS trouble...it's been hot and muggy here and I can't sleep worrying where in the hell she is going to find water...she's no longer in the "greenway" areas with ponds. She's now in South Jamaica which is not a great place for any lost creature to be.
People, this is a great time to say a prayer!
I am not familure with New York, but I have read here that the area she has been last sighted in is a not so Great area! This should be the turning point, spend the money, implement something, tracking dogs, stinky bait. This is the time to pull out all the bells and whistles!
Jil If you want your dog home for your "WEDDING" time to take charge for GODSAKES DO SOMETHING!
I could not bear being out of state and having this do nothing person in Charge!!!
Irene, I have been thinking the same thing, with the heat and all. Where is she getting water, shelter, food, safety. It just drives me nuts. This should be a last ditch effert to implement something!!! Instead all we hear about is the opposite of people in charge, and the people acutually doing something are always getting bashed on here. It's just wrong!!!
Irene, I am hooking up 2 IV's one with cocoa and one with Vino! won't be able to get through the day. I have completly come undone! don't care what anyone thinks of my opinions, just reading between the lines.
Could the volunteers try leaving a lot of cool water (maybe big hunks of ice that would melt) along the way to see if this might help lure her toward an area along with the dry food? The water situation also worries me as well.
Rosa...'not so great area' is putting it mildly. Abandoned houses, crack heads galore and dog fighting as the national past time. Its not a pretty picture. Maybe Linda NH might want to take another trip down to help?
ROSA:
She's lost somewhere here in NYC and we have not and WILL NOT give up trying to save this little whippet. She's a brave and tough little girl that's lost in a city known to be tough and resiliant! We just need to get out of the way the things that are not working....
With God's help, Vivi will stay safe long enough for a kind soul to make final contact with her...I have to believe that or I will totally lose it!
In this area, seems all the more reason to let the reward be known about. Can you imagine a drug addict who needs money being interested in helping without a financial gain from it?
Irene and Audrey, that is where I am at the breaking point emotionally for this little dog. As an out of towner, I have donated money many times and to actually be leary at this point to help out financially cause it's hard to trust where it's going is really sad. especially when there is money there to try and do something just drives me batty!!!
We can only pray! as I do everyday for her. If something doesn't develope soon I will need the men in white coats to come and get me.
PROBLEM IS THAT A CRACK HEAD WON'T GIVE A DAMN HOW HE CATCHES HER...CHAINS, BEEBEE GUNS, DRIVING HER STRAIGHT INTO TRAFFIC.
I DISAGREE...THE REWARD IN THIS CASE WORKS AGAINST US! In fact, I think we are posting flyers not mentioning an amount....
Hey Rosa,
School will be out in about a week. You and I should get together at Lakeside, and develop a Chocolate Merlot bar to send to NYC. I tried really hard to find the cherry cordial kisses, but the best I could do was dark chocolate.
Sharon, I would love to meet you at Lakeside! We'll go to Godiva chocolate and pray for Vivi!!! E-mail me when your ready. Too bad Irene is too far to join us.. Then again Irene and I together in a chocolate shop, they would have to restrain us!! Rosa
ROSA: They'd have to call out the riot police!
I haven't seen the cherry cordial kisses...I'm sure they will be here soon...oh boy, more calories!
Irene,
Unfortunately, I couldn't find those kisses when I sent the medals. You did get either some of the small dove chocolates, the dark chocolate kisses, or a dark chocolate biscotti didn't you? I sent them with the St. Anthony, St. Francis medals and cards (Diane was going to distribute to the volunteers.) I will continue to look for the cherry cordials and send some. Or Rosa and I will send Godiva with your name on it.
I think we are intelligent adults and statements made in CAPS (shouting assumed) are not necessary. If you dislike what someone says and disagree, there is no need to be rude about it. Even if you dislike the person.
Thank you.
Hugs from Kathleen and Tinkerbell in Memphis, TN
I will defenitly pick something up for Irene at Godiva chocolate! I would imagine they have a way to ship something so melty and wonderful in the middle of summer.
Irene, The CHERRY CORDIALS HAVE WILL HAVE YOUR NAME WRITTEN ALL OVER THEM!
Sorry that just had to have caps!
I'm not familiar with Queens. Tomorrow when I call the Churches in College Point and Flushing they will ask where she was last seen. Is So. Jamaica near those two areas?
Rosa/Sharon:
Thank you so much, but there is no need to do any of that...no problem and I am sure the religious medals and chocolates will make their way around in due time....I am always up to my ears in chocolate, no need to tempt me further...(lol) So many people are out there doing a lot more physical stuff than I am...(I do areas that my teenaged neighbors and I can stuff mailboxes...flyers on poles is way too much sustained walking for me with my back problem.)
One of the volunteers, Barbara-Jean, doesn't have a car and walks miles and miles posting...she is only one of the amazing volunteers...she deserves a total carload of chocolates....send mine to her, please!
Thanks...you are really thoughtful people and it is so much appreciated.
Margot:
People at the two churches you mentioned will know where she's been sighted if you say South Jamaica.
Thanks for your help...we appreciate it.
Audrey, there is no reason to be sarcastic.
If you will recall, I was very clear that I am not a person that does well in that environment. I am sorry but I have to leave that to you brave souls. I not only have a human family, but 5 dogs and 5 cats that really, really would miss me.
Vivi's family would not want anyone taking chances with their own lives.
Take care everyone.
Take care everyone.
Margot... South Jamaica is about 12 miles from College Point. The College Point, Flushing, Bayside areas are covered. Flyers are still up and believe me.....the people in these areas know about ViVi.
Its Jamaica, Rochdale Village,Springfield Gardens, Laurelton, Cambria Heights, St Albans and Briarwood that need to be hit hard.No sitings in a week.Not good. Thanks for your help.
Audrey my dear, did you get any of those delicious chocolates and medals that Sharon from MI sent??
Who did she send them to again?? I can't seem to recall..
Just a question wasn;t there something blogged a while ago that if after 4 months of being lost vivi is considered abandoned, well looks like we are coming close to that mark.
Sharon, as far as I know none of the volunteers have gotten any medals or chocolate, how long ago were they sent?
Seems to me that Vivi has been abandoned a long time ago..
Not by us, thank God!!
Margot -
Please check your e-mail.
Lois T
Hey Debbie!
I just read Bonnie's post several times-and it never gets any better. here is my take on things:
A- Jill is calling the shots. That means her friend Honi will be Top Dog at Vivi's expense and only those searchers she deems "worthy"will be consulted. Was Darlene, Renee, or Irene invited to the meeting? I hope they were.
B- Rosa- forget Brian.I think he has his own agenda with the powers that be.Poor Vivi is the sacrificial lamb and I for one don't like it one damn bit.
AMEN MARGOT, AMEN MARGOT AMEM MARGOT!!!!!!!!
Rosa
Audrey don't forget Valley Stream it borders Rosedale.
It's about time we call a spade a spade!
people we need to get this off ou chest, I think we are all seeing the light! no more beating around the bush this is what it is, and Viv is the one suffering for all of it. She did not ask to be a show dog! and not asked to be lost!. I for one will never watch Westminster again, why are they not helping? or are they being told not to cause it might scare Vivi away, she might be ablt to detect show people? Do they think we are stupid! Rosa
Margot:
Thanks for the vote of confidence, but I am not a member of the "Elite Vivi Team"...I am merely a Poster Peon and that is fine with me. I don't give a damn what I am called as long as they spell my name right! We Poster Peons do very well coordinating and keeping communications open as needed between everyone..not to worry.
You're absolutely right on with all the rest...
I my heart, I felt Vivi was abandoned by March 1st, and I cried long and hard about it. Then I decided she had been given a whole new "family" so to speak and we will never abandon Vivi...we will see this through to its conclusion which we pray will result in reining her in safely and hugging her till