9.28.05

Dear Rocky Mountain Animal Defenders:

This is the busiest time of year for activism, but issues also arise that need tending to immediately. Please see the bottom of this announcement for two action alerts that you can help with — both of which directly and immediately affect animals in Colorado and beyond.

There are many protests and events coming up, so please save some time and energy to devote to advocating for the animals. Please check out the list of events coming up — there are three this weekend alone.

Thanks to Scott Keating for hosting a great RMAD benefit party last week! We ate great food, including a monster vegan Boston Cream Pie from Watercourse. Scott has generously donated the proceeds from the party to RMAD.

Special thanks to veterinarian Erica Rambus and Rocky Mountain Alley Cat Allies who handled the spaying & neutering of 40+ feral cats this past Saturday. Several RMAD volunteers helped with the trapping and fostering, but Erica and her assistant Karen (with the help of 2 RMACA volunteers) tirelessly devoted their day to caring for these cats. Thanks so much for helping to better the lives of ferals!

Volunteers needed for web design and programming. RMAD has an immediate need for help with various web projects. If you can help, please contact us immediately at 303-449-4422 or chrisj@rmad.org. We have lots of other volunteer opportunities, including our upcoming December winter party/fundraising event. We need help soliciting donations and help with the event, so if you would like to participate, please let us know right away.

Feel free to contact us with any pressing concerns or questions. Have a good week and weekend!

Chris and Donna
_______________
Saturday, October 1: Farm Sanctuary Walk for Farm Animals

When: Registration: 9:00 a.m. — Walk: 9:30 a.m.
Where: Civic Center Park (1437 Bannock), Denver

Late registration and T-shirt pick up, for all those who are preregistered, will begin at 9 AM . We will walk from 9:30 to 10:30 AM, have a quick picnic snack, then we will head over to the fur demo at 11:15 (see demo details below) After the fur demo we will have lunch at Little Ollie's (GREAT Chinese food) on the corner near the fur demo. The registration deadline has past to receive your T-shirts on time. It's NOT too late to join us for the walk! We will have a few extra T-shirts at the walk for late entries. If we run out, T-shirts can be mailed. If you haven't registered, but you plan to join us, please let Harriet know, or respond to this e-mail ASAP. Thanks! We will meet on the sidewalk next to Civic Center Park (1437 Bannock) across the street (to the East) from the City and County building. At 9:30 we will walk on the 16th Street Mall. If you arrive late, you can catch up with us on the mall. http://www.walkforfarmanimals.org/locations/denver.htm; Harriet Balhiser, 719-276-2201

Saturday, October 1: Fur Demo

When: 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Posters and leaflets will be provided. Bring an umbrella just in case!
Where: Marks Lloyds Furs, 263 Josephine between 2nd and 3rd in Cherry Creek See directions below.

Winter is fast approaching and sadly, fur sales will soon be on the rise for the season. Please help us spread the truth about fur, in Denver.
Here's the scoop about fur:
http://www.furisdead.com/feat/ChineseFurFarms/
http://www.hsus.org/wildlife/issues_facing_wildlife/fur_and_trapping/
http://www.furisdead.com/getActive.asp
http://www.furisdead.com/photos-traps.asp
http://www.bancrueltraps.com/
http://www.furkills.org/
http://www.infurmation.com

Directions: From I-25 take Speer South to University. Turn Left (North, see Whole Foods Market on your Right after you turn onto University). University turns into Josephine after you cross 2nd. Marks Lloyds will, be on your Left just before 3rd. Don't forget to buy a parking ticket to place on your dash board from one of the green parking boxes marked with a (P) that are located on each block. From 6th Avenue going East, or 8th Avenue going West. go South on York (a one way street) to 3rd. Turn Left (East) on 3rd. Josephine is the next street. Marks Lloyds is behind Little Ollies which you will see on the corner of 3rd and Josephine. Call 303-807-1886 if you need help with directions.

Sunday, October 2: HEALTH Potluck

When: 5:30 p.m.
Where: We will be meeting on the 2nd floor at the Highlands Methodist, on the corner of 32nd and Osceola, between Sheridan and Federal in Denver.

HEALTH welcomes everyone, regardless of dietary preference, to share a plant-based meal (a meal free of animal products), while learning about a more compassionate lifestyle. For the potluck, bring a plant-based dish (no meat, fish fowl, gelatin, dairy, eggs, honey or other animal derived products) to serve at least 8 people. A plant-based dish can be as simple as, cut up fruits or veggies or a bottle of natural apple juice to share. If you are new to the group, please to come as our guest and let us feed you. Those comfortable with plant-based, please feel free to show off, dazzle us with your talent and bring extra if you like. Also bring a serving utensil, your own place setting, your own drink and a recipe card (with some extras to share) listing the ingredients in your dish (Please note on your recipe card if your dish contains hydrogenated oils for the health conscience folks in the group and also if it contains common allergens such as nuts).

Directions: From the S.E., take Federal, North to 29th. Turn left (West) on 29th to Osceola and turn Right (North). Just before 32nd you will see the Church on the left and a parking lot on the right. You may park in the lot if there's room. You can also take Speer Boulevard, North to 32nd, then go West (left) on 32nd.
From the N.E., take Federal, South to 32nd. Turn Right (W) on 32nd to Osceola, the lot will be on your left.
From the West, take Sheridan to 32nd and go East to Osceola. The Church and lot will be on your right. 32nd, runs East from 13th and Ford in Golden all the way to Osceola, for those of you coming from Golden or the west side of town. It changes from 13th to 32nd somewhere behind the Coors plant. Go East on 13th and just stay on the main road. We will be collecting a small donation (whatever you can afford) for the rent. They usually charge a $75 fee per use but they are being so kind to only charge us $30 + any extra we collect.

Questions? Call 303-449-4422 M-F and leave a message for Ann

Saturday, October 8: Ringling Brothers Circus Animal Vigil

When: 6:00 p.m.
Where: Denver Coliseum

Let’s show them what Colorado is made of, and that they will never be welcome here as long as they’re torturing and killing animals. Here is your once-a-year opportunity to speak up for those who are beaten, chained, starved and lonely. Here is your chance to do something! Posters, leaflets, and candles will be provided. We will also have some special guests paying Ringling a “grim” visit! If you are interested in being one of these special guests, please contact me at sisley@milroy.com. We hope to see all of you there! Thank you.

Dress: Black clothing, please
Contact: Sisley Milroy sisley@milroy.com
Forward this to everyone you know, bring your friends and family. Last year we had 90 activists out there, giving Ringling the ol’ one-two. Let’s do even better this year!


Sunday, October 9: Prairie Dog Coalition Bowl-A-Thon

When: Sunday, October 9, 2005 3-5pm
Where: SPLITZ Bowling Center, 10685 Westminster Blvd. Westminster

All bowlers are graciously asked to get a minimum of 10 sponsors of $10.00 each. There is a $6.00 entry fee payable at the door that includes: 2 games, shoes, prizes and FUN! Please contact the Prairie Dog Coalition office to reserve your space to bowl and get a sponsor sheet at 720.938-0788 or info@prairiedogcoalition.org Bowl-A-Thon pledge sheets and instructions can be found at www.prairiedogcoalition.org/events/shtml

Help the prairie dogs and have fun at the same time!

Tuesday, October 11: Howard Lyman Talk

When: 7:30 p.m.
Where: Ramaley C250, CU, Boulder, http://www.colorado.edu/campusmap/map.html?search=ramaley&x=9&y=9

Not to be missed!!

Friday, November 25: Fur Free Friday

When: 11:00 a.m.
Where: Cherry Creek

More details to follow!!

Ongoing: Vegetarian Parents of Denver Meeting

Vegetarian Parents of Denver meet the second Saturday of every month. We discuss a variety of issues, share resources and are even starting an organic food buying club. We welcome parents of children of any age. Bring the kids and we have a babysitter watch them in another room. Our next meeting is June 11 at 10 a.m.- 12 p.m. You can call 303 355 5272 or e-mail Laura Patrick (veganmom2002@yahoo.com) for directions. Or join our online discussion group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/compassionate_future/.

__________________________________

The Endangered Species Act Is in Danger

Proposed amendments to this landmark legislation would be an unnatural disaster for endangered animals and critical habitat.

September 27, 2005

House Republicans, led by Representative Richard Pombo (R-CA), seem to be taking advantage of the fact that the country is distracted to fast-track legislation that would eviscerate the Endangered Species Act, a move that would seal the fate of many endangered species, pushing them over the brink of extinction. The Endangered Species Act has been an effective tool to combat the plight of animals used in entertainment, such as Asian elephants and great apes, as well as to protect animals who remain free in the wild.

While Americans are busy focusing on the hurricane-ravaged Gulf Coast, doing what they can to help victims recover, Pombo has sponsored H.R. 3824, perversely called the “Threatened and Endangered Species Recovery Act,” which would significantly weaken legal protection for animals and their habitats, severing the only lifeline that stands between endangered species, greedy developers, and other vested interests. H.R. 3824 would effectively gut the Endangered Species Act with the following provisions:

· Make it more difficult to list a species as threatened or endangered
· Eliminate protections for critical habitat
· Eliminate the Endangered Species Committee
· Weaken scientific decision-making
· Exempt projects from independent scientific review
· Remove the prohibition on “takings”
· Take mandatory recovery plans and make them voluntary
· Allow individual states to adopt piecemeal approaches to recovery based on arbitrary state lines as opposed to critical habitat boundaries
· Shorten the amount of time that agencies can oppose action that would harm threatened or endangered species.

Pombo’s bill reads like a Letter to Santa Claus penned by money-grubbing logging, mining, development, and property rights extremists. If H.R. 3824 passes, Christmas will come early for these powerful corporate interests. It’s up to concerned citizens everywhere to see to it that they get a lump of coal instead.

Urgent action is required TODAY in order to preserve legal protection for endangered species. The House of Representatives is set to vote on the measure sometime this week. Pombo has already seen to it that H.R. 3824 passed through the House Resources Committee (of which he serves as Chairman). Please call or fax your representative immediately and ask him or her to oppose Rep. Pombo’s attempt to gut the Endangered Species Act - H.R. 3824. Let your representative know that endangered species and their habitats are more important than short-term profits, that greed is not a core American value, and that you oppose any attempt to weaken the protections of the Act as it exists today.

You can find contact information for your representative at http://www.house.gov/.

____________________

Help Save Highlands Ranch Prairie Dogs

From Leslie Johnson:

We're asking that you send a letter to Shea Homes, the distribution is below this sample letter - send as many letters as possible - your friends, spouse, siblings. Numbers will make an impact here. Tim Roberts is the guy we were talking to, the others are on the Highlands Ranch Metro Districts board (Shea actually has a board and a say in running Highlands Ranch government). There is another Shea property on Lucent Blvd. where hopefully they haven't already killed those prairie dogs.

Shea Homes actually took most of the remaining animals here on Friday morning. I wasn't here - my husband said it was a good thing I wasn't here to see it. They took them from the drainage areas where they wouldn't be bulldozing anyway - they took rabbits. They took the prairie dogs behind my house, so I'm just sick about it. They plan to poison any animals not trapped for the ferret program.

Sample letter to send to Shea Homes. Please edit for your personal feelings (or feel free to write your own) and send to the distribution below:

I am so disappointed and disgusted that Shea Homes has removed the prairie dogs on the Backcountry development. I understand that Shea owns suitable habitat where the animals could have been relocated with little or no cost to Shea Homes.

The prairie dog is a Keystone Species. Scientists now understand that more than 160 species are dependent to a greater or lesser degree on the prairie dog. With its abrupt decline, we are at risk of losing numerous dependent species including burrowing owls (endangered), antelope, swift fox, coyotes, badgers, ferruginous hawk, golden eagle and the mountain plover. Prairie dog populations have declined to 1- 2% of their historic numbers. This development, "The Backcountry", just by its name infers a place to live with wildlife. The homes at the back end will view the Backcountry Wilderness Area. Prairie dogs in your development or in the wildlife refuge would pull wildlife into the area. The cat is out of the bag about "relocations" to the ferret program. The public is shocked and appalled by the deception and the fate of the prairie dogs. You are not helping the ferrets. The reason the black-footed ferret is endangered is there are not enough prairie dogs left in the wild. You are just contributing to the problem. In addition to their value to wildlife, prairie dog towns are a valuable education resource for the schools in the area. Denver's Natural Areas Program is planning to protect a number of towns in that city for local schools to observe on field trips, for example. The towns are a prime wildlife-watching area for local residents. Boulder County designs prairie dog parks where people can come view the prairie dogs.

We request that you cease your senseless killing of prairie dogs on this development, and relocate the remaining few to the Backcountry or the drainage area identified by the DOW representative. We plead with you to not poison the remaining animals. We strongly urge you to include prairie dog towns in your planning and development.

Your Signature
Send to these individuals:tim.roberts@sheahomes.comjkappes@highlandsranch.orgtkershisnik@highlandsranch.orgjkilrow@highlandsranch.orgsormiston@highlandsranch.org

9.21.05

More information about RMAD email lists, including how to remove yourself, can be found at: http://rmad.org/resource.html

Fellow Defenders of Animals:

RMAD’s crucial work continues, despite the Katrina tragedy. Our hearts go out to each and every being – human and animal – who lost their life or was displaced by the storm. It’s important to realize that while tragedies of this magnitude occur on a regular basis, we are all doing so much to assist. It’s also important to realize that RMAD is *you*. You are empowered to make a difference, whether it be adopting an animal to make room for the hundreds coming from Louisiana to Colorado, reaching out to the public about the hellish existence farm animals endure, or relocating imperiled prairie dogs. RMAD’s small staff does the work of much larger groups on a fraction of the budget, but we couldn’t exist without your support and help.

Tonight is a great time to meet up with people and discuss issues like this. We’re meeting at Ping’s Favorite starting at 4:30 p.m. (see below) to continue building a community of animal advocates. There is no agenda except a good time but it’s a chance to express yourself among compassionate minds. We’d love to have you there.

The office has been particularly vibrant this past week. We’ve had a lot of small successes that add up to big ones and boost our confidence and state of mind.

First, Patagonia found our www.BoycottNalgene.com page and called us for more information on cruelty-free bottles. They are seeking an alternative to the Nalgene bottles they have used for a long time.

We assisted in a situation where a pit bull had been tied to a tree and left to die. Because no authority or animal group except RMAD offered help, we got our lawyer friend Madeline Duncan involved. She contacted Jefferson County animal control who in turn found the dog, injured and distraught, but alive. Despite being having been abandoned days before and having bloodied his paws in an attempt to free himself from the tether, he lovingly accepted the home of a rescuer (which counters the position so many cities are taking that pit bulls are ruthless killers.) Many thanks to Madeline for her help and to Karen, for tirelessly pursuing this situation until it was resolved.

Donna has spent a considerable amount of her off hours assisting citizens with feral cat issues. She helped a Denver resident who also received absolutely no help from local humane societies and animal control. This is a trend that needs to stop!

So much goes on behind the scenes that it’s difficult to account for everything we do. We plan protests, support campaigns, organize events, answer dozens of calls and emails; our volunteers are tabling, designing and running websites, writing brochures, helping with mailings, writing grants, rescuing animals, handing out fliers, and more. We do a vast amount of work and there is more to be done. 2005 has been a huge year for our organization and we can only continue to grow from here.

We’re always here to talk, so if you have any questions, concerns or bad jokes, please give us a call (303-449-4422).

Donna and Chris
Calendar:

Wednesday, September 21: Happy Hour and Food
When: We have the party room reserved starting at 4:30.
Where: Ping's Favorite Chinese, 1635 28th St (In the corner of the strip mall where Video Station is, near Qdoba's).
Drinks are discounted (including the Flaming Volcano!). You can also order appetizers and/or dinner; Ping's has a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan choices, and we’d like to support a local establishment. We get together like this to help build community and get to know each other better. All are welcome! Please contact Mike Stabler for more info at mikes@rmad.org

Saturday, September 24: Fur Demo
Winter is fast approaching and sadly, fur sales will soon be on the rise for the season. Please help us spread the truth about fur, in Denver.
Here's the scoop about fur:
http://www.furisdead.com/feat/ChineseFurFarms/
http://www.hsus.org/wildlife/issues_facing_wildlife/fur_and_trapping/
http://www.furisdead.com/getActive.asp
http://www.furisdead.com/photos-traps.asp
http://www.bancrueltraps.com/
When: 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Posters and leaflets will be provided. Bring an umbrella just in case!
Where: Marks Lloyds Furs, 263 Josephine between 2nd and 3rd in Cherry Creek See directions below.
Directions: From I-25 take Speer South to University. Turn Left (North, see Whole Foods Market on your Right after you turn onto University). University turns into Josephine after you cross 2nd. Marks Lloyds will, be on your Left just before 3rd. Don't forget to buy a parking ticket to place on your dash board from one of the green parking boxes marked with a (P) that are located on each block. From 6th Avenue going East, or 8th Avenue going West. go South on York (a one way street) to 3rd. Turn Left (East) on 3rd. Josephine is the next street. Marks Lloyds is behind Little Ollies which you will see on the corner of 3rd and Josephine. Call 303-807-1886 if you need help with directions.

Saturday, October 1: Farm Sanctuary Walk for Farm Animals
When: Registration: 9:00 a.m. Walk: 9:30 a.m.
Where: Civic Center Park (1437 Bannock), Denver
Picnic to follow. For more information, contact Harriet (719-276-2201), denver@walkforfarmanimals.org) or visit www.walkforfarmanimals.org.

Saturday, October 8: Ringling Brothers Circus Animal Vigil
When: 6:45 p.m.
Where: Denver Coliseum
More details to follow!!

Tuesday, October 11: Howard Lyman Talk
When: 7:30 p.m.
Where: Ramaley C250, CU, Boulder, http://www.colorado.edu/campusmap/map.html?search=ramaley&x=9&y=9
Not to be missed!!

Sunday, October 9: Prairie Dog Coalition Bowl-A-Thon
Help the prairie dogs and have fun at the same time!
When: Sunday, October 9, 2005 3-5pm
Where: SPLITZ Bowling Center, 10685 Westminster Blvd. Westminster
Details: All bowlers are graciously asked to get a minimum of 10 sponsors of $10.00 each. There is a $6.00 entry fee payable at the door that includes: 2 games, shoes, prizes and FUN! Please contact the Prairie Dog Coalition office to reserve your space to bowl and get a sponsor sheet at 720.938-0788 or info@prairiedogcoalition.org Bowl-A-Thon pledge sheets and instructions can be found at www.prairiedogcoalition.org/events/shtml

Friday, November 25: Fur Free Friday
When: 11:00 a.m.
Where: Cherry Creek
More details to follow!!
Ongoing: Vegetarian Parents of Denver Meeting
Vegetarian Parents of Denver meet the second Saturday of every month. We discuss a variety of issues, share resources and are even starting an organic food buying club. We welcome parents of children of any age. Bring the kids and we have a babysitter watch them in another room. Our next meeting is June 11 at 10 a.m.- 12 p.m. You can call 303 355 5272 or e-mail Laura Patrick (veganmom2002@yahoo.com) for directions. Or join our online discussion group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/compassionate_future/.

9.14.05

Guten Tag!

This week’s wildlife spotting is: a four foot rattlesnake, making his way across the road at the Boulder Reservoir. He rattled on about the traffic out there, but was appreciative that the car stopped for him so he could cross. He then thanked me for helping to protect his food source, prairie wildlife. I said, ”You’re welcome,” then gave him a wide berth and went on my way. I’m glad snakes don’t travel in packs...

Donna and I have been working overtime to keep RMAD running smoothly. With the help of volunteers Ashley Mills and Tamara Barnes, we were able to complete a 1500 piece mailing. Thanks, Ashley and Tamara!

We’re also busy forming a fundraising event committee for our October fundraiser. If you would like to help (and we do need help) please contact Donna at DonnaM@rmad.org.

We are still investigating the situation reported to us involving an old chicken hatchery located at Pollard’s, 1812 S. Parker Rd. We’re trying to learn more, but we’ve been told that the birds are living in horrid conditions although the hatchery is no longer in business. If you know anything about this business and these birds, please let me know. In addition to this case, I’ve dealt with yet more prairie dog issues, situations involving neglected dogs, and accounts of farm animals being attacked by neighbors.

Lynee’ reports: “I was at a school doing a presentation earlier this week and I overheard a high school boy talking about RMAD after my talk (as I had brought along some RMAD stuff and showed the website) and he was just raving about the many different things he has heard the organization do for the animals. It was really inspirational to hear that RMAD was almost a household name for some of those kids!” Lynee’ has been hard at work on HealthCoop.org and it will be debuting soon. Thanks, Lynee’!

Sarah reports that Andong Tofu, a vegan Vietnamese restaurant, has just opened in Broomfield. Among their offerings are fresh tofu, soymilk, and soy yogurt, several flavors of deep fried tofu, vegetarian spring rolls with shredded "pork", a few varieties of sticky rice, noodle dishes, and more. They will be adding new items to the menu soon. All offerings at this restaurant are vegan! They are open 7 days a week, from 8am - 8pm. Andong Tofu, 6500 W. 120th Ave. Unit E, Broomfield, CO 80020, (303) 439- 9177.

Leslie informs us that the Highlands Ranch Metro Districts Open Space people will propose changing the current "Prairie Dog Conservation Plan" using a citizen and subject matter expert task force. The current plan calls for thinning of prairie dog populations on open space annually and does not call for the use of barriers. The "thinned" prairie dogs are sent to the ferret program. We need to show as much citizen support as possible at this meeting, which is on Monday, September 19th at 7 p.m. at the Metro Districts of Highlands Ranch, 62 W. Plaza Drive, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129, 303-791-0430.

A group of concerned Coloradans has made a trip to Louisiana to pick up a group of animals who need foster homes. The animals are scheduled to arrive in Colorado this weekend. Help is needed Monday, Sept. 19 and Tuesday, Sept. 20 to unload the animals, transport them to local foster homes, etc. If you’d like to help, contact Madelyn at mkhermos@comcast.net. Another trip to Louisiana is planned for October. Help is needed loading trucks with supplies, driving supplies to affected areas, and working in hurricane-affected areas to help animals wherever it’s needed. If you would like to offer your assistance, contact Lorraine at info@mishamayfoundation.org; put the words “Volunteer Trip” in the Subject line.

Volunteers are also needed Friday, Sept 16 @ noon - 5pm to help pack trucks with supplies that are going to Louisiana this weekend. The location is Journey Books, 1050 South Wadsworth, Lakewood, CO (303) 239-8773. No need to call first – just show up.

Thanks for all you do to help the animals.

-- Chris

Thursday, September 15: Compassion Club CANCELLED
Cancelled due to lack of interest. Please email ChrisJ@RMAD.org with any questions.


Saturday, September 17: Fur Demo
Winter is fast approaching and sadly, fur sales will soon be on the rise for the season. Please help us spread the truth about fur, in Denver.
Here's the scoop about fur:
http://www.furisdead.com/feat/ChineseFurFarms/
http://www.hsus.org/wildlife/issues_facing_wildlife/fur_and_trapping/
http://www.furisdead.com/getActive.asp
http://www.furisdead.com/photos-traps.asp
http://www.bancrueltraps.com/
When: 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Posters and leaflets will be provided. Bring an umbrella just in case!
Where: Marks Lloyds Furs, 263 Josephine between 2nd and 3rd in Cherry Creek See directions below.
Directions: From I-25 take Speer South to University. Turn Left (North, see Whole Foods Market on your Right after you turn onto University). University turns into Josephine after you cross 2nd. Marks Lloyds will, be on your Left just before 3rd. Don't forget to buy a parking ticket to place on your dash board from one of the green parking boxes marked with a (P) that are located on each block. From 6th Avenue going East, or 8th Avenue going West. go South on York (a one way street) to 3rd. Turn Left (East) on 3rd. Josephine is the next street. Marks Lloyds is behind Little Ollies which you will see on the corner of 3rd and Josephine. Call 303-807-1886 if you need help with directions.

Wednesday, September 21: Happy Hour and Food
When: We have the party room reserved starting at 4:30.
Where: Ping's Favorite Chinese, 1635 28th St (In the corner of the strip mall where Video Station is, near Qdoba's).
Drinks are discounted (including the Flaming Volcano!). You can also order appetizers and/or dinner; Ping's has a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan choices, and we’d like to support a local establishment. We get together like this to help build community and get to know each other better. All are welcome! Please contact Mike Stabler for more info at mikes@rmad.org

September 22-24: Animal Care Conference CANCELLED
Grand Hyatt, Downtown Denver

Saturday, October 1: Farm Sanctuary Walk for Farm Animals
When: Registration: 9:00 a.m. Walk: 9:30 a.m.
Where: Civic Center Park (1437 Bannock), Denver
Picnic to follow. For more information, contact Harriet (719-276-2201), denver@walkforfarmanimals.org) or visit www.walkforfarmanimals.org.

Saturday, October 8: Ringling Brothers Protest
When: 6:45 p.m.
Where: Denver Coliseum
More details to follow!!

Tuesday, October 11: Howard Lyman Talk
When: 7:30 p.m.
Where: Ramaley C250, CU, Boulder, http://www.colorado.edu/campusmap/map.html?search=ramaley&x=9&y=9
Not to be missed!!

Sunday, October 9: Prairie Dog Coalition Bowl-A-Thon
Help the prairie dogs and have fun at the same time!
When: Sunday, October 9, 2005 3-5pm
Where: SPLITZ Bowling Center, 10685 Westminster Blvd. Westminster
Details: All bowlers are graciously asked to get a minimum of 10 sponsors of $10.00 each. There is a $6.00 entry fee payable at the door that includes: 2 games, shoes, prizes and FUN! Please contact the Prairie Dog Coalition office to reserve your space to bowl and get a sponsor sheet at 720.938-0788 or info@prairiedogcoalition.org Bowl-A-Thon pledge sheets and instructions can be found at www.prairiedogcoalition.org/events/shtml

Friday, November 25: Fur Free Friday
When: 11:00 a.m.
Where: Cherry Creek
More details to follow!!
Ongoing: Vegetarian Parents of Denver Meeting
Vegetarian Parents of Denver meet the second Saturday of every month. We discuss a variety of issues, share resources and are even starting an organic food buying club. We welcome parents of children of any age. Bring the kids and we have a babysitter watch them in another room. Our next meeting is June 11 at 10 a.m.- 12 p.m. You can call 303 355 5272 or e-mail Laura Patrick (veganmom2002@yahoo.com) for directions. Or join our online discussion group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/compassionate_future/.

9.6.05

Buongiorno!
Yesterday, for the second time in a month, a fox ran across the road in front of me. I waited for him to pass, then he ran to the side of the road and peed. I guess he was trying to tell me something...

At RMAD we have also marked our territory. We focus on vegetarianism and prairie wildlife, though our work inevitably expands to other areas. Our Circus Campaign has been in hibernation for awhile, but now that Ringling Bros. is heading back to the area, we’re gearing up for a big protest. This will take place the first Saturday, October 8th. Following that is Fur Free Friday (November 25th) and following that is the 100th Anniversary of the Stock Show in Denver (date and time TBA). Yes, protest season is approaching. If you would like to help with any of these events, please let me know.

We have dealt with a number of companion animal issues recently and, of course, the hurricane has displaced a lot of animal lives. We’ve done our best to sort out what group is doing what and in what capacity, but we encourage you to investigate groups that you are considering donating to.

Because of the hurricane, Marc Bekoff’s television appearance on September 9th has been postponed.

We are looking for help finding homes for donation containers. This is an easy way to get a few extra dollars and reach the public as well. Please let Lindsey (LindseyS@rmad.org) know if you would like to help. As well, we *still* need electronic images of the RMAD community in action at a protest, gathering, relocation, potluck, or otherwise! If you would like to share this for our use, please send to Chris at ChrisJ@rmad.org.

The phone have been busy with prairie dog calls, as usual. B.K. of Westminster stopped further poisoning on the open space at 100th and Sheridan in Westminster this morning. If you are a Westminster resident, please call Richard Dahl and/or Bill Walenczak at 303-430-2400 and politely request that they hold off on any further poisoning until more discussion has been help. B.K informs me that the city has a policy that if they receive a letter, they must return a letter, so if writing suits you better, please send a letter to Richard and/or Bill at 4800 West 92nd Avenue, Westminster, CO 80031. Thanks, B.K.!

Our friends at Skyline Sanctuary & Education Center have announced a position with their organization for Director of Humane Education. The position is full time with a salary commensurate with experience and education. They're looking to hire as soon as possible, so if you are interested, please take a look and get in touch with them as soon as you can. You can get more information on this position at www.idealist.org or by contacting Skyline Sanctuary.

Watch the road for wildlife.

-- Chris

On the Calendar
9.7.05 Book Release Party
9.10.05 Fur Demo
9.14.05 Desk Yoga for Writers w/ vegetarian dinner
9.15.05 Compassion Club
9.23-9.24 Animal Care Conference – CANCELLED
10.1.05 Farm Sanctuary Walk for Farm Animals
10.8.05 Ringling Brothers Protest
10.9.05 Prairie Dog Coalition Bowl-A-Thon
Ongoing Petitions to Save Highlands Ranch Prairie Dogs
Ongoing Vegetarian Parents of Denver Meeting

Wednesday, September 7: Book Release Party
When: Wednesday September 7th, 6:00-8:00pmWhere: Avogadro's Number in Fort Collins, 605 S. Mason St
Details: You are cordially invited to a party celebrating the publication of Comeback Wolves: Western Writers Welcome the Wolf Home, Edited by Gary Wockner, SueEllen Campbell, and Gregory McNamee with a Foreword by Congressman Mark Udall. Comeback Wolves is a new collection of essays and poems considering and celebrating wolf restoration in Colorado and the Southwest. Fifty Western writers and poets have contributed unique, insightful essays and poems. Royalties from Comeback Wolves will be donated to the conservation organization, Defenders of Wildlife, for the Proactive Carnivore Conservation Fund. Proceeds from this evening's book sales will benefit Sinapu's wolf recovery work in the Southern Rockies. Fifteen Comeback Wolves contributors reside in Northern Colorado and will be on hand to sign books. The event is free and open to the public. Food and drink can be purchased at Avogadro's. Please forward this invitation to anyone interested.
For more information on this event, please contact Kimberly Riggs at Sinapu, 303.447.8655.
Other Related Events: Several book stores and organizations around the region will be featuring readings from various contributors to Comeback Wolves this fall; a select list appears below. For a complete list of events, visit the Comeback Wolves website.

The Depot, Crested Butte724 Elk Avenue September 20, 7 P.M.
Featured Writers: George Sibley and Rob Edward
Hosted by the High Country Citizens Alliance..
Maria's Bookshop, Durango620 E. 7th AveSeptember 22, 7 P.M.Featured writers and poets: Pamela Uschuck, William Pitt Root, B. Frank and Rob Edward.

Tattered Cover (LODO), Denver 1590 Wynkoop StNovember 10, 7:30 P.M.Featured writers: Clarissa Pinkola Estes, Mary Crow, and Rob Edward.

Center of the American West, BoulderUniversity of Colorado at Boulder, Old Main ChapelNovember 21, 7 P.M.Featured writers: Pam Houston and Laura Pritchett.
Saturday, September 10: Fur Demo
Winter is fast approaching and sadly, fur sales will soon be on the rise for the season. Please help us spread the truth about fur, in Denver.
Here's the scoop about fur:
http://www.furisdead.com/feat/ChineseFurFarms/
http://www.hsus.org/wildlife/issues_facing_wildlife/fur_and_trapping/
http://www.furisdead.com/getActive.asp
http://www.furisdead.com/photos-traps.asp
http://www.bancrueltraps.com/

When: 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Posters and leaflets will be provided. Bring an umbrella just in case!
Where: Marks Lloyds Furs, 263 Josephine between 2nd and 3rd in Cherry Creek See directions below.
Directions: From I-25 take Speer South to University. Turn Left (North, see Whole Foods Market on your Right after you turn onto University). University turns into Josephine after you cross 2nd. Marks Lloyds will, be on your Left just before 3rd. Don't forget to buy a parking ticket to place on your dash board from one of the green parking boxes marked with a (P) that are located on each block. From 6th Avenue going East, or 8th Avenue going West. go South on York (a one way street) to 3rd. Turn Left (East) on 3rd. Josephine is the next street. Marks Lloyds is behind Little Ollies which you will see on the corner of 3rd and Josephine. Call 303-807-1886 if you need help with directions.

September 14: Desk Yoga for Writers
When: Wednesday, September 14, 6:15-8:30 pm
Where: Meeting Room at the Virginia Village branch of the Denver Public Library, 1500 S Dahlia Street (at the intersection of Dahlia St and Florida Ave)
What: Karen Falbo, nutritionist coordinator for Vitamin Cottage Natural Grocers, she regularly lectures in the community on health and wellness topics. Karen is an expert yoga instructor, will lead the group through a series of simple yoga postures that can be performed while sitting or standing at your desk. She will include wrist exercises that are especially helpful in relieving symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. You will receive a handout to keep at your desk so you can practice these exercises at home or at work. Note: we will have dinner AFTER doing forward bends
Food: Enjoy delicious Middle Eastern delicacies from Damascus Restaurant...hummus, baba ghanouj, falafel, fresh-baked pita bread, and more!
Cost: Program, including dinner: $20 for nonmembers. Pre-registration and advance payment by mail is requested. To pre-register, either: Contact Emmy, AMWA-RMC Events Director, at meford3@verizon.net or 303-830-1816 to RSVP. Please provide your phone number and e-mail address. Or, send a check (mail by Friday, September 9) made payable to AMWA-Rocky Mountain Chapter to ATTN: AMWA-RMC Program, M.E. Ford, MD, MPH, LLC, PO Box 181218, Denver, CO 80218.
DIRECTIONS AND PARKING: Virginia Village branch of the Denver Public Library at 1500 S Dahlia (southeast corner of Dahlia St and East Florida Ave, Florida Ave is about 12 blocks south of Alameda Ave). From the north: head south on Colorado Blvd, turn left (east) on E Florida Ave, go 8 blocks and turn right (south) on Dahlia St, turn left into the first driveway into the parking lot. From the south: head north on Colorado Blvd, turn right (east) on E Florida Ave, go 8 blocks and turn right (south) on Dahlia St, turn left into the first driveway into the parking lot

Thursday, September 15: Compassion Club – An Activist Support Group
What: Compassion Club – An Activist Support Group
Time: 7:00 pm to 8.30 pm
Where: For location, please contact Chris at chrisj@rmad.org.
Everyone is welcome, but we recommend that you RSVP! Because of the sensitive and personal nature of the topics we discuss, we ask that you arrive on time so that the group won’t be disrupted. For this reason, Catherine has recommended that we keep the door open until 7:15 p.m. but then ask that latecomers not interrupt the group. If you think you are coming late, please let us know in advance. Please email or call me (Chris) at 303-449-4422 or Catherine Zakoian at 970-926-1276 if you need any further information.

September 22-24: Animal Care Conference CANCELLED!!
Grand Hyatt, Downtown Denver

Saturday, October 1: Farm Sanctuary Walk for Farm Animals
Where: Civic Center Park (1437 Bannock), Denver
When: Registration: 9:00 a.m. Walk: 9:30 a.m.
Picnic to follow. For more information, contact Harriet (719-276-2201), denver@walkforfarmanimals.org) or visit www.walkforfarmanimals.org.

Saturday, October 8: Ringling Brothers Protest
Where: Denver Coliseum
When: 6:45 p.m.
More details to follow!!

Sunday, October 9: Prairie Dog Coalition Bowl-A-Thon
Help the prairie dogs and have fun at the same time!
When: Sunday, October 9, 2005 3-5pm
Where: SPLITZ Bowling Center, 10685 Westminster Blvd. Westminster
Details: All bowlers are graciously asked to get a minimum of 10 sponsors of $10.00 each. There is a $6.00 entry fee payable at the door that includes: 2 games, shoes, prizes and FUN! Please contact the Prairie Dog Coalition office to reserve your space to bowl and get a sponsor sheet at 720.938-0788 or info@prairiedogcoalition.org Bowl-A-Thon pledge sheets and instructions can be found at www.prairiedogcoalition.org/events/shtml


Friday, November 25: Fur Free Friday
Where: Cherry Creek
When: 11:00 a.m.
More details to follow!!

Ongoing: Petition to save Highlands Ranch PDOGS
PLEASE visit www.dccwildlife.org to view this and other petitions.

Ongoing: Vegetarian Parents of Denver Meeting
Vegetarian Parents of Denver meet the second Saturday of every month. We discuss a variety of issues, share resources and are even starting an organic food buying club. We welcome parents of children of any age. Bring the kids and we have a babysitter watch them in another room. Our next meeting is June 11 at 10 a.m.- 12 p.m. You can call 303 355 5272 or e-mail Laura Patrick (veganmom2002@yahoo.com) for directions. Or join our online discussion group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/compassionate_future/.