December 1. 2009 09:47

We celebrated our day of thanks with family, and a large black cat (Don Gato, The Wonder Cat) who snoozed through the meal on an empty chair at the table. Occasionally he would open one eye to glare when the noise grew too loud, but otherwise he was just happy to be in the thick of things. One of Gato's best traits is that while he'd sell his soul for tuna juice, he never begs for human food!

This year we were particularly grateful for employment, but also health. Our daughter had surgery last summer, and is once again strong and healthy. We have all the gifts and thanks we want: our daughter is healthy, and after a recent prolonged struggle, so is Gato!

Lisa Todd

December 3. 2009 13:59

I thought you might all be interested in this article from today's local paper here in Dubuque, IA. In brief ... Joyce Kitsemble of Wisconsin Rapids, WI, an animal rights activist who lobbied lawmakers for years to pass a bill cracking down on abusive dog-breeding facilities, collapsed Tuesday while the governor was speaking during a bill-signing ceremony. Joyce, 70 years old, had suffered a heart attack and died just hours after Gov. Jim Doyle signed this very measure into law. We should all take a moment of silence for Joyce, who basically "gave her life" for the cause.

Patti Luksetich