Welcome to the Shire

After 40 years, the Indoor Display Gardens on the Doris Duke Estate (Duke Farms)are closing. On May 25th 2008, these beautiful displays are closed forever! The indoor gardens will be torn down in order for Duke Farms to move into the 21st Century - a more “Greener” future. Apparently the greenhouses are very old, not up to code, and very expensive to maintain. The only survivors will be the orchids of the Edwardian garden. They will be moved to a different location.

The Duke Foundation has decided to refocus the estate to an environmental showcase and learning center, as well as a giant park for visitors with some outdoor display gardens. You can read the Foundation’s Press Release here.

It is very sad for me. I used to work for Duke Farms in the 70’s during high school and college. I made sure I got there to see them before the very end, and I took LOTS of pictures. To view my picture slideshow of Duke Gardens, click
here.

Want to abuse animals? I don’t think so. Not with these guys.

They call themselves Rescue Ink. A new breed of animal advocates who will do everything within the boundaries of the law to stop animal abuse. And they can be very convincing. They advertise themselves as having a certain “in your face” approach when it comes to animal abusers. You’ll see why when you visit their website.

Their volunteer programs include Companion Outreach, TNR Feral Cat Overpopulation, School Visitation, Animal Housing, Political Action, Fostering, and a Pit Bull Awareness.

They also have a hotline where you can report animal abuse and their *dedicated* staff will get right on it.

This new group is worth watching to see how it develops.

You know, animal advocates have tried to be nice. They’ve tried working with politicians to get stronger laws. They’ve tried working with law enforcement and legal channels to make sure animal abusers are punished. They’ve tried to educate, fundraise, and find homes for unwanted, adoptable animals. They do this with 200 percent of their time, money, and energy. Most of the time it seems like an uphill battle.

Well, now its time for a new approach. Maybe NOW people will listen.