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Message to members of GC from the CEO of GC.
#89062
03/17/06 10:12 PM
03/17/06 10:12 PM
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Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 2,504 VA
BRoss
OP
C.E.O:Emeritus
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OP
C.E.O:Emeritus
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 2,504
VA
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As the CEO of GC, I seldom post on the board. However, do not doubt that I am always very involved in GC. Ellen and I have been involved with Sugar Gliders since 1997 when our daughter got a sugar glider from one of her friends who worked in a pet store. After about a year, Ellen and I became more involved with Peek-A-Boo. He got a larger cage and two mates. After our daughter moved out, Peek-A-Boo and his family stayed with us – you can guess the rest! Ellen became a close friend of Cynthia Whiteshell, one of the revered figures in the original Glider community in this country. She also found Clara’s GC, became active and soon was a moderator. At the time, I was the Director of the Scientific Laboratories (9 individual labs) at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology in Washington, DC.. When two of Clara’s gliders died, they were sent to me and I was able to examine them at the AFIP with help from the large Department of Veterinary Pathology at the AFIP. Our exams showed changes typical of a Vitamin E deficiency. Our consultations about the case put me in touch with Ellen Dierenfeld, PhD, Director of Animal Nutrition at the Bronx Zoo and one of the world’s experts about Vitamin E. About the same time Ellen and I meet Bourbon. Bourbon asked that I make a presentation at the 2nd. SGGA meeting in Rutherfordton, NC. I presented some basic data comparing the nutritional content of Bourbon’s BML with the original Leadbeater’s and Modified Leadbeater’s diets showing all were much the same in terms of nutritional content, not ingredients. Since that time I have remained active with glider research and the SGGA. When several of our gliders died, from liver injury characteristic of Aflatoxin poisoning, I did more research. As it happened, I had done four year of research in the Laboratory for Cell Biology at the UT Southwestern Medical School in Dallas while attending medical school. While doing that research, we worked with Aflatoxin studying it’s cancer causing effects. We found that Aflotoxin bound directly with DNA! Me involvement with GC and the SGGA has and will continue. Let me address the issues leading to Tom’s resignation from CG. As Tom, I was raised in the military in a family where Honor, Duty, Country were basic foundations. Like Tom, I spent my active professional life in the military. I served with pride for 31 years in the U.S. Navy retiring as a CAPT in the Medical Corps and the senior pathologist in the Navy. There are certainly some professional credentials in my background! I most certainly understand and respect Tom’s decision to resign in face of the continued, groundless attacks on his integrity. I have known Tom well since he first attended a SGGA and we are and always will be close friends. After 31 years of attend and presenting professional medical meetings, I have NEVER SEEN details of the finances made public! I have personally watched Tom count the funds at SGGA meetings and know that no one ever asked for us to keep records of the exact origin from which the money came. Impossible to provide when asked AFTER THE FACT. Tom has always shown the highest integrity – to have his integrity questioned is unacceptable! Tom, Ellen and I have provided substantial amounts from our own pockets to ensure GC and the SGGA prosper. I have always paid my own costs when presenting at the SGGA. When Ellen Dierenfeld gave her wonderful presentation at one SGGA, Ellen and I paid all her expenses for travel, meals, parking and lodging. Because of our personal friendship with Ellen – she did not collect her usual professional speaking fee, several thousand dollars. Tom, Ellen and I have paid for our server and it’s maintenance. Enough background and history. I want to thank Tom from the bottom of my heart for his help, support, leadership and friendship. I have known few men of his statue in my life! GC is much better for his contributions and is the SGGA. As a final thought, all of you should be assured that GC WILL NOT go away. Ellen and I will continue to “Stay the Course” as we promised Clara and Cynthia Whiteshell.! Best wishes to all!
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Re: Message to members of GC from the CEO of GC.
[Re: ]
#89063
03/17/06 10:30 PM
03/17/06 10:30 PM
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Wow, Bruce, that was a GREAT read. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and honestly it felt so good for the soul. Ive talked to Tom privately and am so relieved to hear he wont disappear from GC. I dont know whats happening to him or his family but that is unacceptable. Thank you Bruce for what you've done and thank you Tom for all you have done as well. Ellen, thank you for being you. You know I love you.
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Re: Message to members of GC from the CEO of GC.
[Re: ]
#89064
03/17/06 10:39 PM
03/17/06 10:39 PM
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Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 15,514 Long Island, NY
gliderdad79
Glideritis Anonymous
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Glideritis Anonymous
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 15,514
Long Island, NY
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</font><blockquote><font class="small">Quote:</font><hr /> I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and honestly it felt so good for the soul.
<hr /></blockquote><font class="post">
I agree Kim, it was a great post. Thank you for reassuring the community that GliderCentral will stay and continue to grow stronger for the gliders!! Thank you to Tom, Ellen, and Bruce for keeping GC going all these years <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/yelclap.gif" alt="" />
Eddie
In the Tropics somewhere between the port of indecision and southeast of disorder!
"Great people talk about ideas. Average people talk about things. Small people talk about other people."
One day your life will flash before your eyes. Make sure its worth watching!
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Re: Message to members of GC from the CEO of GC.
[Re: ]
#89065
03/17/06 10:42 PM
03/17/06 10:42 PM
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Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 8,899 Jacksonville, FL
Xfilefan
Serious Glideritis
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Serious Glideritis
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 8,899
Jacksonville, FL
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Welcome, Bruce, and thank you so much for the reassurances. I have no doubt you are the epitome of honesty and integrity, and for the gliders first and foremost. I was very impressed when I met you at the last SGGA. I look forward to seeing you on the board...and can't express what a relief to know GC is in the hands of another person that is for what we're all here for...the gliders and their welfare! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wave.gif" alt="" />
Jen/Colin Commander Riker 12 16 02-10 04 12 you will be FOREVER missed Sinbad, Gabby, Baby, and Alley
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Re: Message to members of GC from the CEO of GC.
[Re: ]
#89066
03/18/06 12:11 AM
03/18/06 12:11 AM
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Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 7,603 Virginia Beach, VA.
Ellen
Owner:Emeritus-Mother Hen
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Owner:Emeritus-Mother Hen
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 7,603
Virginia Beach, VA.
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I would like to step in and say a great big HUGE thanks to Eddie. I have already posted how many hours he has taken to learn and now he can see the fruits of his labor. Tom you are are a great teacher..... And already know how we all feel about you. Thanks again Eddie for spending so many hours having to put up with Tom to learn LOL LOL LOL. And I for one liked the links in the middle for ST.Patricks day. Very cleaver
Love and kindness is a gift. Use it freely.... My Gallery
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Re: Message to members of GC from the CEO of GC.
[Re: ]
#89068
03/18/06 01:44 AM
03/18/06 01:44 AM
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Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 15,514 Long Island, NY
gliderdad79
Glideritis Anonymous
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Glideritis Anonymous
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 15,514
Long Island, NY
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Thank you Ellen. Tom is a great teacher and enjoyed getting to know him better and learn so much at the same time. Thank you Tom for everything <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/agree.gif" alt="" />
Eddie
In the Tropics somewhere between the port of indecision and southeast of disorder!
"Great people talk about ideas. Average people talk about things. Small people talk about other people."
One day your life will flash before your eyes. Make sure its worth watching!
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Re: Message to members of GC from the CEO of GC.
[Re: ]
#89069
03/18/06 02:25 AM
03/18/06 02:25 AM
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Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 11,583 Sycamore Illinois
Karin
Glideritis Anonymous
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Glideritis Anonymous
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 11,583
Sycamore Illinois
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<img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wave.gif" alt="" /> Bruce!!! SO good to see you here, and great post <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/agree.gif" alt="" />. Gosh, I need a <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/hug2.gif" alt="" />!
Karin
Miss Lily and Bud Prada and Armani Tessa, Deuce and Cami Tira and Misu Deja and Vu Glider Daydreams
"Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass...It is about learning to dance in the rain!"
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Re: Message to members of GC from the CEO of GC.
[Re: ]
#89070
03/18/06 06:27 AM
03/18/06 06:27 AM
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Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 1,659 Wallis Texas
Charlie H
Glider Slave
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Glider Slave
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 1,659
Wallis Texas
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Bruce, don't be so scarce. We need your expertise for guidance when we get in over our heads wondering about diseases and diets. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" /> I am sure you have much more important things to do but it sure would be nice if you had the time to devote to the board. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> Nice to hear from you! Charlie H
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Re: Message to members of GC from the CEO of GC.
[Re: ]
#89072
03/18/06 02:38 PM
03/18/06 02:38 PM
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Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 3,264 Northeast U.S.
angelic4296
Glider Addict
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Glider Addict
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 3,264
Northeast U.S.
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I just wanted to say thank you to Bruce, Ellen, Tom and Eddie and all the mods and administrators for all the hard work you do....this is an amazing arena in which to learn and grow with eachother WHEN THE BOARD IS USED PROPERLY....you've helped me sooo much in terms of learning how to care for Gizzy properly, and you guys are all my sounding board for any questions or problems....Tom, anyone who questions your character is out of their minds, you're a wonderful person and have been the one to ease my worried mind on more than one occasion....I have nothing but respect....Bruce, great read, it was inspiring and really brings you back to the roots of the purpose and legacy of GC....THANK YOU AND BIG HUGS TO ALL THOSE WHO MAKE THIS BOARD WHAT IT IS!!!!!!!!!!!!
Jess
2 spoiled gliders, Gizzy (6/05) and Ruthie (?/05) <3
Please consider rescuing first!
Please remember to complete your surveys at http://www.sugargroup.org/ - help better the lives of gliders everywhere
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Re: Message to members of GC from the CEO of GC.
[Re: ]
#89073
03/18/06 03:47 PM
03/18/06 03:47 PM
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Thank you all for your hard work. I would like to say I am very interested in the fact that the second SGGA was here in my hometown and i had no clue <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" /> But anyway! Thanks again for all you do!!
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Re: Message to members of GC from the CEO of GC.
[Re: ]
#89074
03/18/06 09:35 PM
03/18/06 09:35 PM
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 11,158 Tampa, FL
Xglider
Glideritis Anonymous
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Glideritis Anonymous
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 11,158
Tampa, FL
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Re: Message to members of GC from the CEO of GC.
[Re: ]
#89075
03/21/06 04:05 AM
03/21/06 04:05 AM
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Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 2,088
PepPony
Glider Slave
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Glider Slave
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 2,088
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Bruce--Hello Bruce! I have been out of the country in Antigua came back and then cruised the Bahamas, came back and then went to Orlando for a convention, came back and had to photograph the NFL players and the Ed Block Courage Awards. In a nutshell, that means I have been out of the country or on vacation for the past couple of weeks. I have barely had time to check in at my glider forum. So I really do not know the details of what has been going on here at GC. I do know that there was some gossip and accusations. I am catching up and read Tom's post and now yours. I have a couple of comments that I think you will appreciate. First of all, when no other glider forums were around, there was only GC. And if it were not for Ellen and some other individuals, GC would have gone defunct when the old owner had some issues and personal problems. Basically, you and Ellen kept GC alive. I am not only speaking as a member but also as the owner of another glider forum. I have to say that if it were not for you and Ellen, gliders would not have the quality of care they receive today. Bruce, not only are you a loving husband, but you are a true professional. Your analysis on glider diets was groundbreaking at a time when no such information existed. From the limited discussions I have had with you on aflatoxins, it was evident that you entrenched yourself in studying more about this not because of scientific interest but because of the personal loss of your own gliders. You and Ellen should be commended for this. I wanted to back you up in your post here. It is one thing to hear accolades from members but it is another thing to hear accolades from an owner of another glider forum. I wanted to publicly give you those accolades and back up your statement from a different frame of reference that should be appreciated by even more people. I can tell you that both Bruce and Ellen have contributed their own funds on many, MANY occassions to keep GC and the SGGA alive. They never asked for anything in return. Bruce has always been willing to donate his time or lend a hand when needed. Enough about Bruce! Great post Bruce and it needed to be said for those who have not been around as long as you and I. As for Ellen, I can tell you that she cares about people as much as she cares about gliders--and believe me, that goes deep. She is always willing to lend a helping hand and she put GC back together again almost single handedly. If it were not for Ellen and Bruce, GC might not even be in existence today. And when peace needed to be brought to the glider community when there were some bad people starting trouble--Ellen was there right along with me. I will never forget that! Alright, stop blushing, I am moving on to Tom. First of all Tom, thank you for your service to our country and also thank you for your service to the glider community. I can tell you that Tom has personally helped me on several occassions. Both Ellen and Tom have been friends to the WSGN and I thank them for that. I do not know the individual or individuals questioning Tom's integrity, not do I care to know them. All I know that is if you are questioning the integrity of a man like Tom, you are barking up the wrong tree. I have agreed with Tom on many glider issues but I have also have had my disagreements with him. He has always handled it professionally and as a gentleman. So that is coming from someone who has not seen eye to eye with and individual but respects his integrity. I can also tell you that I have contributed monies to glider causes over the years and have never been concerned about those contributions. Tom helped me on more than one occassion and I offered to pay him for his help. He would not accept any monies personally. So I made a donation to a glider cause in honor of his pet glider that died, Mandy. So here is a man that would not even take money when earned and offered to him personally. He would rather have it donated to a worthy glider cause. How can anyone question integrity like that? You can't! I find it disheartening that anyone would question Tom's moral character, ethics, or integrity. It is beyond reproach. Tom would rather go without than take a handout. And this is coming from the owner of another glider forum. I will defend his moral fiber and stand up as well for him. I think Bruce said it best in his post. This is a great glider forum or should I say the great grandmother of glider forums. If it were not for people like Bruce, Ellen and Tom--GC would not be where it is today. They are friends to many of us who know them. But they are also friends to people in the community that do not know them. They gave of themselves without asking for any compensation in return. And believe me, if you have ever owned a glider forum, it is not an inexpensive venture. I can speak on their behalf because I know, it costs hundreds of dollars a year to keep a forum going. And they have been doing it for years. Believe it when Bruce said, GC is not going anywhere and will be around. It will! GC has seen many glider forums come and go, but they are still here. I although I am not a betting man, I would put my money on GC being around for a long time because of the dedication of people like Bruce, Ellen and Tom. That is not coming from just a member but the owner of another glider forum. So believe that!!! God Bless You Bruce, Ellen and Tom! And thank you all for your service to our country, for your service to GC and for your service to the entire glider community over the years!
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