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PACIFIC OCEAN (June 15, 2021) Sailors assigned to amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) review administrative files, June 15. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine training operations in U.S. Third Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
PACIFIC OCEAN (July 21, 2021) Ensign Georgina Machokoto, from Harare, Zimbabwe, left, assigned to amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26), goes through a sentry security qualifying course during a routine underway. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
PACIFIC OCEAN (July 10, 2021) Yeoman 1st Class Christopher Shaffer, center, from San Antonio, assigned to amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26), demonstrates a defensive maneuver as part of security force training, July 10. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
Fillee on the floor with her Barbie. In the background is Gigi, Sister Virgini's baby boy.
This image was taken for a not-for-profit that has changed its named, focus, and mission to KEZA.
Remera, Kigali.
Rwanda. Central Africa.
October 9, 2006.
NAVAL BASE GUAM (Aug. 7, 2021) Lt. Abraham Jiregna, from Kansas City, Kan., a chaplain assigned to amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26), offers a prayer to the crew prior to getting underway for exercise Freedom Banner 2021, Aug. 7. Freedom Banner is an annual exercise that involves strategic projection of the Maritime Prepositioning Force (MPF) and associated combat forces. This year’s iteration supports Large Scale Exercise (LSE) 2021, which is designed to refine how we synchronize maritime operation across multiple Fleets in support of the joint force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
This image was taken for a not-for-profit that has changed its named, focus, and mission to KEZA.
Official Statement on Name Change
"Sisters of Rwanda has been in operation in Rwanda for 2.5 years. Our original mission was to “ensure justice, equality and economic opportunities for Rwanda’s most vulnerable women”. Over the years we have learned better how to serve this amazing country and the people that dwell within it. We came here to listen and to learn, and as part of the natural maturation of our organization, we have grown into KEZA. Simply put, KEZA is the result of a 2.5 year pilot project called Sisters of Rwanda. “KEZA is a people-inspired luxury fashion house based in Rwanda. We buy top quality fashion goods from non-profit development organizations, generate income for the poor and help to establish Africa’s position in the luxury fashion industry.”
We still work with the very same 43 women that helped build Sisters of Rwanda. And our vision has only strengthened and become more strategic. Sisters of Rwanda has grown up, and we are proud to present KEZA to the world. Welcome to KEZA, “Where ‘they’ become ‘we’”. "
The BLM Wyoming Cody Field Office hosted volunteers to remove net-wire fence and replace it with barbed and smooth-wire fence in order to help pronghorn and mule deer migration.
“It was a great time with lots of smiles and enthusiasm,” said BLM Outdoor Recreation Planner Nancy Patterson. “About 47 folks removed 1.75 miles of network fence!”
The Cody Field Office thanks all the volunteers who spent the day with us. Partners included The Nature Conservancy, which brought a Montana Conservation Corps crew to help; Sunlight Sports, which provided snacks and water; and Marathon Oil, which hauled-off all the netwire and took it for recycling. Folks from Trout Creek Ranch, Winding Pathways of Cedar Rapids and the MCC crew volunteered to be small group leaders and help teach others to fence. In addition to interested community members, volunteers from Wyoming Migration Initiative, Absaroka Outdoor Fellowship, Greater Yellowstone Coalition, Northwest Outdoor Club, Shoshone NF, Cody Next Generation, and Buffalo Bill Center of the West all volunteered to help.
Photo by Megan Baumeister, Sunlight Sports and NPLD partner.
PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 9, 2021) A Landing Craft, Utility (LCU) attached to assigned to Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 1 approaches amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) for recovery during exercise Freedom Banner 2021. Freedom Banner is an annual exercise that involves strategic projection of the Maritime Prepositioning Force (MPF) and associated combat forces. This year’s iteration supports Large Scale Exercise (LSE) 2021, which is designed to refine how we synchronize maritime operation across multiple Fleets in support of the joint force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
PACIFIC OCEAN (July 21, 2021) Ensign Jacob Csukker, left, from Delphos, Ohio, goes through a sentry security qualifying course aboard amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) during a routine underway. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
PACIFIC OCEAN (July 12, 2021) Sailors and Marines assigned to amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) tally the score on a target as part of a flight deck live fire exercise, July 12. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
PACIFIC OCEAN (July 29, 2021) Sailors assigned to amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) aide in the launch of a Landing Craft, Utility (LCU) attached to Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 1. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine operations as part of U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
PACIFIC OCEAN (July 21, 2021) Ensign Jacob Csukker, second from left, from Delphos, Ohio, goes through a sentry security qualifying course aboard amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) during a routine underway. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
PACIFIC OCEAN (July 21, 2021) Ensign Jacob Csukker, from Delphos, Ohio, assigned to amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26), rinses oleoresin capsicum (OC) from his eyes following a sentry security qualifying course during a routine underway. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
PACIFIC OCEAN (July 21, 2021) Intelligence Specialist 1st Class Jarrett Andrew-Schiro, left, from Houston, assigned to amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26), is sprayed with oleoresin capsicum (OC) prior to going through a sentry security qualifying course during a routine underway. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
teach.NSW is a unit in the NSW Department of Education & Training that promotes teaching as a career.
These pens are freebies that teach.NSW give away at careers expos and public relations affairs.
For more information about a career in teaching in NSW Public Schools visit: www.teach.nsw.edu.au
Photograph Copyright © 2008 Joriel Jimenez
Photograph Copyright teach.NSW © 2008 NSW Department of Education & Training
[Ref:20080507teachNSWpenDSC03640]
PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 10, 2021) Amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) steams in the foreground as a Landing Craft, Utility (LCU) carrying vehicles and supplies, assigned to Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 1 makes its way ashore during exercise Freedom Banner 2021. Freedom Banner is an annual exercise that involves strategic projection of the Maritime Prepositioning Force (MPF) and associated combat forces. This year’s iteration supports Large Scale Exercise (LSE) 2021, which is designed to refine how we synchronize maritime operation across multiple Fleets in support of the joint force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 16, 2021) A Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC), attached to Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 5, approaches amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) during LCAC recovery operations. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine training operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 16, 2021) Sailors assigned to amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) participate in a replenishment-at-sea (RAS) with fleet replenishment oiler USNS Henry J. Keiser (T-AO 187) during a routine underway. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine training operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
PACIFIC OCEAN (July 10, 2021) Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Josh Moore, left, from Baltimore, and Seaman Shumarcus Henderson, from Gulfport, Miss., both assigned to amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) participate in security force training, July 10. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
PACIFIC OCEAN (July 28, 2021) Religious Programs Specialist 1st Class Paul Smith, from Atlanta, right, assigned to amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26), gives tactical team movement training during a routine underway. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine operations as part of U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
My dear friend, Peace, 19.
Gisimba Memorial Center, an orphanage on the ouskirts of Kigali.
July, 2006.
PACIFIC OCEAN (July 21, 2021) Ensign Jacob Csukker, center, from Delphos, Ohio, goes through a sentry security qualifying course aboard amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) during a routine underway. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
PACIFIC OCEAN (July 14, 2021) A Sailor assigned to amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) directs an MV-22 Osprey attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 268 to ascend from the flight deck during flight quarters, July 14. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
I'm looking for sponsors for the children of Gisimba Memorial Center. Please email me at camera_rwanda@yahoo.com if you are interested.
Thommy, 14.
Gisimba Memorial Center
Kigali, Rwanda. Central Afrika.
July 31, 2006.
PACIFIC OCEAN (June 22, 2022) Capt. Gervy Alota, commanding officer of amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26), from San Diego, records a video of an amphibious combat vehicle attached to 3d Assault Amphibian Battalion, 1st Marine Division, as it transits through the Pacific Ocean. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
PACIFIC OCEAN (June 14, 2021) Midshipman 2nd Class Tessa Bohn from Venice, Fla. and the U.S. Naval Academy, right, goes through the mess line aboard amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26), June 14. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine training operations in U.S. Third Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
ACIFIC OCEAN (June 14, 2021) Midshipman 1st Class Riley Wharton from Russellville, Ky. and the U.S. Naval Academy, right, receives firefighting training from Ensign Tom Lampognana from Hollis, N.H., repair officer assigned to amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26), June 14. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine training operations in U.S. Third Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
Sister Jamilla and I enjoy a cup of chai. Jamilla is sitting on an indented Jerry can, while I'm seated on a narrow cement ledge. The chai is heavily sugared, without milk. We've been swapping words in Kinyarwanda and English. We've learned "no problem", "skirt", "shirt", "pants", "hair", and "rain". One word we both already knew was "smile".
I leave Rwanda at the end of this week, and I'm really sad to be going. Sister Jamilla and the other sisters are amazing women--strong, generous, and spirited. And their children, whew.
I'm already looking forward to returning for a third visit once I finish school.
This image was taken for a not-for-profit that has changed its name, focus, and mission to KEZA.
Remera, Kigali.
Rwanda. Central Africa.
October 9, 2006.
It's only 11:30 in the afternoon when Jen (friend and translator) and I arrive at the Medecins Sans Frontieres office in the heart of Remera. There we were, waiting for Virgini to appear...and appear she did, arms flung out wide in exuberance. As she moved in for a warm embrace, I saw the big bold hearts cut out of her dress sleeves. I was having a rough day, 3 hours of sleep, overworked, and totally exhausted...But the moment Virgini flashed that smile, and I saw those hearts, the tic-tac-toe print, and little Gigi slurping in her mother's arms, I forgot my grumpy mood and let this crazy sister take me in.
That's Mama Gigi for you, encouraging us all to see the light! One second with her and you know you're in the presence of a shining spirit.
This photograph is very important to me. It's proof that one woman can take the lessons of a painful past and do something constructive with them. What is Virgini doing behind the gates of this NGO? Well, this afternoon, she's teaching other women about AIDS prevention. Gigi in her arms, Virgini will share her wisdom with 4 women from Kinombe, a village a few kilometers from Remera. Her students are lucky to get the message from a woman who's been there in the past, but is determined to point herself, her family, and her sisters in a different direction.
After I snapped this photo, Virgini, Gigi, Jen, and I spent an hour together laughing and taking more photographs of her walking through her neighborhood. That's Virgini for you, generous, inspiring, all heart--sans frontieres.
This image was taken for a not-for-profit that has changed its named, focus, and mission to KEZA.
Official Statement on Name Change
"Sisters of Rwanda has been in operation in Rwanda for 2.5 years. Our original mission was to “ensure justice, equality and economic opportunities for Rwanda’s most vulnerable women”. Over the years we have learned better how to serve this amazing country and the people that dwell within it. We came here to listen and to learn, and as part of the natural maturation of our organization, we have grown into KEZA. Simply put, KEZA is the result of a 2.5 year pilot project called Sisters of Rwanda. “KEZA is a people-inspired luxury fashion house based in Rwanda. We buy top quality fashion goods from non-profit development organizations, generate income for the poor and help to establish Africa’s position in the luxury fashion industry.”
We still work with the very same 43 women that helped build Sisters of Rwanda. And our vision has only strengthened and become more strategic. Sisters of Rwanda has grown up, and we are proud to present KEZA to the world. Welcome to KEZA, “Where ‘they’ become ‘we’”. "
Remera, Kigali.
Rwanda. Central Africa.
October 2, 2006.
For Sisters of Rwanda
"Sisters of Rwanda is a non-profit organization focused on women who make their living as a commercial sex worker, and/or have been sexually abused. Our purpose is to provide these vulnerable girls with a sustainable income and life/business skills that will ensure a better quality of life for them and their families."
Please do not blog or use any of the photographs from the Sisters of Rwanda series. Thank you.
PACIFIC OCEAN (April 2, 2022) Chief Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Marchello Roberts, from Shreveport, Louisiana, assigned to amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) directs a MH-60S Sea Hawk, assigned to the “Island Knights” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25, to move into position for landing. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 7th Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
National Public Lands Day shared this about the hard work of 2014 volunteers:
-Collected an estimated 23,000 pounds of invasive plants
-Built and maintained an estimated 1,500 miles of trails
-Planted an estimated 100,000 trees, shrubs and other native plants
-Removed an estimated 500 tons of trash from trails and other places
-Contributed an estimated $18 million through volunteer services to improve public lands across the country
NPLD focuses on promoting service and recreation on public lands. NPLD continues to commemorate and celebrate the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) by inspiring a new generation of volunteers committed to service on public lands.
While volunteers can break a sweat while working to improve their parks on NPLD, they can also explore and enjoy America’s natural wonders. NPLD can be a gateway to discovering the beauty and opportunity for fun at our parks – hiking, biking, swimming, bird watching, picnicking or just plain relaxing in America’s backyard.
Learn more here: www.publiclandsday.org/
PACIFIC OCEAN (March 13, 2020) Naval Aircrewman (Helicopter) 2nd Class Carlos Santana, from San Juan, Puerto Rico, assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23, embarked aboard the USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26), scans the waters while the ship transits during a routine underway in the Third Fleet area of operations. John P. Murtha recently completed its first deployment as part of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
There are thousands of street children in Butare. Everyday they scavenge for food. Some make their home in trash heaps boardering the streets. At night, these children burrow beneath blankets of rotted refuse, heads at odd angles to the highway.
Some of these children are orphans, others come from broken or abusive homes which make street life seem like a sanctuary.
Butare, Rwanda.
Afrika.
July 8, 2006.
PACIFIC OCEAN (April 2, 2022) Aviation Boatswain’s Mate 3rd Class Tasad Townsend, from Marion, South Carolina, assigned to amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) directs a MH-60S Sea Hawk, assigned to the “Island Knights” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25, to move into position for landing. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 7th Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 16, 2021) A Sailor assigned to amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) signals fleet replenishment oiler USNS Henry J. Keiser (T-AO 187) during a replenishment-at-sea (RAS) as part of a routine underway. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine training operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
A prayer poster taped to the wall. You can also see shadows of a mosquito net. Malaria is a part of daily life at the orphanage.
Gisimba Memorial Center.
The girls' dormitory.
An orphanage on the outskirts of Kigali, in Nyamirambo.
Rwanda. Afrika.
August, 2006
(Shaq's obit)
1991-2008
Shaquille
Tears dropped down onto his lifeless form from the eyes of those who had gathered around Shaq to ease him over to the other side. His black spotted fur, dappled by the afternoon sun, glistened but no longer gave rise and fall to his sedated breathing. His 17 year prison sentence ended today.
We were remembering the proud, fearless leopard and how he had touched all of our lives with his strength to overcome the awful lot he had been dealt. Shaq had been born in a cage. He was bred to be used in a nightclub act by a trainer who made his living from the suffering of many big cats. As long as people would pay to see big cats doing stupid pet tricks he could count on a good living by providing the disposable product of the trade; young, compliant felines.
Cubs live with their mothers for the first few years, so breeders pull the cubs before their eyes open and bottle raise them to be completely dependent and subservient to their human master. By the time the cats are a year old, they are nearly full sized; appearing to be adults, but still mentally kittens. The crowd is wowed by the mastery of the trainer over what they think to be a full-grown and fully intact lion, tiger or leopard. Usually they are declawed, defanged cubs who have been beaten into submission repeatedly behind the scenes.
A well known tiger tamer boasted to me that the way you teach a big cat “who is boss” is to chain them to a wall and beat them with a whip, standing just out of reach. After a while the cat learns that no matter how hard he tries, he cannot retaliate and after a while gives up hope. His spirit dies and he is considered tamed or trained. The training goes on behind locked doors because the public would never support these wild animal acts if they knew the truth.
The trainers all claim that they only use “positive reinforcement” and when in front of the public they do, but the cats are ever reminded of the brutal force that will be used against them if they fail to comply. Sometimes it is in the carrying of a whip, which the trainer will defend as only being a guide, and sometimes it is in the verbal threats using words that only the cats in the ring can hear. It can be as subtle as a look (remember how your mom could do that?) or a gesture that the cat associates with pain.
At Big Cat Rescue we use positive reinforcement or operant conditioning as it is often called as a way to keep the cats’ minds stimulated and to assist us in their care and it works… when the cat wants it to work. This sort of training involves rewarding the cat with a little cube of meat for doing something we need them to do, like come into their feeding area, or show us a paw, or lay down next to the wall of the cage so we can give them their vaccinations or treat minor injuries. We do it because taking care of 100+ cats goes a lot easier if you have to get flea treatments on them and they come when called. It isn’t feasible to chase down a tiger just to put a few drops of Advantage on him. The cats at Big Cat Rescue do it because it is something fun to do and they are bored out of their minds. The agonizing boredom of captivity is the hardest issue for anyone to address when caring for animals who cannot be set free. We never withhold food from their main meals, so the treats are merely the cat’s way of measuring if they got our request right.
It’s helpful, but it isn’t reliable. The cats only respond to this kind of training on their own terms and for those who are being paid to perform for the public there isn’t the option of just turning to the crowd and saying, “Sorry, the cat doesn’t want to jump through the hoop today.”
In Shaquille’s case, people paid to see him jump through the burning hoop in the nightclub show and he was going to jump or die, and he knew it. He knew what would happen if he didn’t and one day, upon reaching adulthood, he proudly decided he wasn’t going to do it any more. It was in the early days of the sanctuary when we would rescue a cat but not require the owner give up their rights to own again. Our policies evolved as we witnessed time and again that breeders, trainers, photo booth operators and exotic pet owners would dump the cats as they grew up in favor of new babies.
The first time I saw Shaquille and the cougar who came with him, I thought that some horrible accident must have happened en route to us. Calling the former owner we learned that the injuries they suffered from had been the result of the beating they had taken at his hand for not performing. He had no remorse and had broken no laws because there are virtually none that protect the big cats. When we complained to USDA we were told that beating big cats to make them perform was considered “standard training methods.”
The cougar had a fungal infection in her brain because it had been exposed from the crashing blows to her head and wasn’t long for this world after that. Shaq’s face was the consistency of ground hamburger and his eye sockets had been crushed so that even years later, when he had fully recovered, his eyes teared constantly. His involuntary trail of tears were a solemn reminder of the abuse he had endured. His story was told to thousands who visited him at the sanctuary, once he was comfortable around people, and to millions who visited his page on the Internet.
Shaquille’s indomitable spirit has been an inspiration to so many. He purr-sonified strength in adversity and the ability to forgive. As a result many people around the globe made a connection with him that bridged the gap perceived as “us” and “them.” All of those thoughts were passing through our minds as he breathed his last in our arms.
The silence of the moment was shattered by an unearthly howling across the refuge. Hallelujah, a cougar and, the first big cat to come to the sanctuary, made the same proclamation as has become his habit when cats cross over. To my ears it was both chilling and comforting. Hal’s timing and the fact that he never otherwise makes such a call let us know that we really are all connected. We feel each other and that connection transcends our physical bodies.
It is sad for us to lose the physical connection with another that we best understand, but Hallelujah reminded us that Shaquille and all thosewho have gone on before him are ever in our midst.
Leopards are designed to run 40 mph and leap 20 feet. They are strong swimmers and climbers and in my opinion are the smartest of all cat species. No cage is sufficient for their needs. Shaq was born in a cage, lived 17 years in a cage, and died in a cage…but now he is free. His work is done. He brought to light the dark side of the entertainment industry and he put the torch in your hands to continue exposing animal abuse until it ends. You are his voice.
Tributes from those who loved Shaquille
Send to Carole at MakeADifference@BigCatRescue.org to be included.
My first introduction to Big Cat Rescue was a Saturday Tour with some friends. Our tour guide was Denny and because of his inspirational tour, I began volunteering at Big Cat Rescue. One of the few stories that I remember from that day was Shaquille's. I was quite naive when it came to how people mistreated animals and Shaq's story brought tears to my eyes and was really the reason I wanted to volunteer at Big Cat Rescue. I've been there going on 5 remarkable years and I owe it all to Shaq! I will miss him on the tour path because I know he inspired many, many, people besides me…..Pat, Volunteer Senior Partner
When I first became a yellow shirt, we were allowed to clean leopards, and I remember my first day by myself in the section called “Snow Leopards.” I had managed to dodge Sundari's frisky ways, Nyla's attempts to rip my face off because she had a raccoon and she didn't want me to take it, and Simba's watchful eye. I thought, “Geez I don't really like this section at all.....until I came to Shaq.” I was petrified...I had watched Shaq lunge at the side of his enclosure at Scott, so I knew he meant business. But, what I found when I approached his enclosure was a very calm, sweet, enduring Black Leopard, who took one look at me and plopped down, rolled over and showed me his belly as if to say "See Regina, leopards aren't so bad. We can be quite silly when we want to be." From that point, whenever I cleaned his cat-a-tat, he would follow me around the enclosure, stopping when I did and never missed a chance to show me his belly.
I took that as his way of giving back to us....since certain special people eased him into the world of human kindness, he would ease me into the leopard world.
Now it is our turn to shed the tears sweet boy......you have shed far too many. Have a peaceful journey Shaquille...run free now, climb trees, act silly. There is a beautiful tigress that will make your journey easier....her name is NINI…..look for her. You can't miss her, she'll be sticking her tongue out at you….Regina, Volunteer Senior Keeper
Oh Shaq! You had us all cry and cry so much for you during all these years by just looking at your eyes and knowing how much you suffered before you came to us. And today I hope you are not crying anymore. I hope you are enjoying your freedom and peace. As for the rest of us, today we are still remembering your tears and your pain. But don't worry Shaq, we will all continue our mission! No more Big Cats should suffer the way you did! Again, I feel so fortunate to have spent so much time talking to you and cleaning "your room!" I told you that day "I love you" - for the millionth time! You just looked at me, but this time was the last time! We all loved you Shaq, we all love you! Go and dry your tears now...let us do the rest and get some rest…Marie, Volunteer Senior Keeper
I first encountered Shaquille on 28th December 2001. It was the dead of night and my first ever visit to Big Cat Rescue, The Wild Eyes at Night Tour with Jennifer as our guide. Of course, he saw us well before we saw him and he came forward to the sound of Jen's voice. She told us his sad story, how he had been abused because he refused to jump through a hoop of fire and how it had left him scarred both physically and mentally. We saw him from a distance in daylight the following day - he was shy and unsure and it was obvious that he really didn’t like men.
The following year I returned to BCR and immediately I could see a huge change in this magnificent creature. There he lay, on his rock, proud and splendid in his black glossy coat. Suddenly, something caught his eye, he jumped from the rock and began chasing round after a play ball in his cage, acting like a little cub again.
Year after year, as I returned to BCR, I saw his confidence improve and I would spend quiet periods with him, just talking softly. It was a great privilege to be able to spend quality time with him. He has been a focus point for every school/event presentation I have ever made about BCR and his story will continue to be told.
Run free Shaquille, you will always have a piece of my heart with you.....Daphne, Volunteer Keeper Trainee/Advocat
Shaquille was such an important and poignant part of my tours, carrying the vital message that we have the power to stop this abuse by not spending our money to see such acts. On one of my tours a few weeks before, one of the little girls asked who I thought had the saddest story, and I answered unhesitatingly, Shaq, since he was not only a victim of greed, ignorance or neglect, but had endured such cruelty; yet to me he meant so much more, the will to survive, the power to forgive. I always took such joy in watching him basking in the sun, knowing he was now safe and loved; the rescue seems a bit colder with his passing..........Deborah, Volunteer Keeper Trainee
Fragile Circle
dedicated to Shaquille by Deborah
We who choose to surround ourselves with lives even more temporary than our own
live within a fragile circle, easily and often breached.
Unable to accept its awful gaps, we still would live no other way.
We cherish memory as the only certain immortality,
never fully understanding the
necessary plan. - Irving Townsend
On a day in early April 2007, my sister and I took a day tour of the cats at Big Cat Rescue. As we stopped a distance away from Shaquille's place, I listened very closely as the guide told us Shaq's horrible background of torture while at a Las Vegas circus. As I listened to the terrible abuse this beautiful cat had suffered at the hands of man (and I say that word lightly), I could not get him out of my mind.
And though the laws were such that I could never get close enough to whisper "I love you Shaquille," I vowed to 'adopt' him and help the big cats as much as I could. At night, I would sent many positive messages to Shaquille and hoped that somehow is eyes could be fixed to stop the tears. I knew that all of the great people at Big Cat Rescue had done as much as they could, but his eyes always
haunted me.
Shaq's spirit and absolute diginity in the face of all he had endured, gave me renewed hope and faith in continuing on in life no matter how gloomy one's circumstances seem at times. Our animal friends are great teachers, and they participate easily in the flow of life and surely accept death with greater courage than most of us humans.
I feel very blessed to have taken that tour and seen Shaq for at least a few moments. I envy those volunteers who were able to reach out to him and be near him on a daily basis. How rich and blessed their lives have been by this lovely leopard. I am sure Shaquille is watching over all of his caretakers, and the other cats from above. He is whole and free of pain now and will be forever at Peace.... Sandra Hricik
I just read the May advocat and my heart broke when I read about Shaquille. In 2005 for my birthday my husband, dad, step-mom, cousin and I went to Big Cat Rescue. It was our first time there and I had wanted to go for some time. It was the most amazing experience getting to see all the beautiful cats that you have rescued. As we approached Shaq's cage the volunteer guiding our tour told us Shaq's story. I started crying when I heard about all the horrible things he had gone through. I stayed behind from the group for a moment just to gaze at this wonderful creature and hoping he knew he was loved, even by someone who could never enter his cage. I felt like I made a connection with him. The following year I told my husband that all I wanted for my birthday was to "adopt" Shaq. His picture remains in a frame at my house.
I am always sad when I hear about the passing of any of the cats at the rescue, but Shaquille hurts my heart the most. I know he is in a better place and can now run free. I am so grateful for having the chance to have Shaq touch my life and to be able to tell others about this brave, strong, beautiful cat. I just wish I could have been able to get close enough to him and tell him "I love you". I want to say thank you to everyone at the rescue for all your hard work and dedication to these cats, you are amazing people.... Tara Barrs
PACIFIC OCEAN (June 22, 2022) Boatswain’s Mate 3rd Class Spenser Sweet, from Butte, Mo., assigned to amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) directs the crew of an amphibious combat vehicle, assigned to 3d Assault Amphibian Battalion, 1st Marine Division, as they maneuver through the well deck. John P. Murtha is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)
The 2022 BBC Make A Difference Awards Presentation dinner at the Hilton Doubletree hotel at Brayford Pool Lincoln. A lovely evening, great to meet other nominees and some BBC editors and presenters.
I'm looking for sponsors for the children of Gisimba Memorial Center. Please email me at camera_rwanda@yahoo.com if you are interested.
Egide, 16.
Gisimba Memorial Center
Kigali, Rwanda. Central Afrika.
July 31, 2006.
This image was taken for a not-for-profit that has changed its named, focus, and mission to KEZA.
Official Statement on Name Change
"Sisters of Rwanda has been in operation in Rwanda for 2.5 years. Our original mission was to “ensure justice, equality and economic opportunities for Rwanda’s most vulnerable women”. Over the years we have learned better how to serve this amazing country and the people that dwell within it. We came here to listen and to learn, and as part of the natural maturation of our organization, we have grown into KEZA. Simply put, KEZA is the result of a 2.5 year pilot project called Sisters of Rwanda. “KEZA is a people-inspired luxury fashion house based in Rwanda. We buy top quality fashion goods from non-profit development organizations, generate income for the poor and help to establish Africa’s position in the luxury fashion industry.”
We still work with the very same 43 women that helped build Sisters of Rwanda. And our vision has only strengthened and become more strategic. Sisters of Rwanda has grown up, and we are proud to present KEZA to the world. Welcome to KEZA, “Where ‘they’ become ‘we’”. "
PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 9, 2021) Chief Boatswain’s Mate Michael Standridge, from Norwalk, Iowa, assigned to Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 1, directs the debark of a Landing Craft, Utility (LCU) attached to ACU 1 from amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) during exercise Freedom Banner 2021. Freedom Banner is an annual exercise that involves strategic projection of the Maritime Prepositioning Force (MPF) and associated combat forces. This year’s iteration supports Large Scale Exercise (LSE) 2021, which is designed to refine how we synchronize maritime operation across multiple Fleets in support of the joint force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Curtis D. Spencer)