Catching-Up With Jerry
I can’t tell you how good it feels to be back! The outpouring of love and support from all of you has been overwhelming; I don’t know where to begin conveying just how grateful I am. Really, from the bottom of my heart, thank you.
So what have I been up to? I’m not going to lie – I’m exhausted. The last few weeks have been a whirlwind and sleep has definitely fallen off of my agenda. While I could write for days detailing my general going-ons over the last seventeen months, I’m going to go into that the best way I know how – on-air. Don’t worry though, if you miss it the segment, I’ll post the audio just like we’ve done with Tommy, Laura and Randy over the last few days right here at KyXy.com.
UPDATE: Click Here To Hear The Audio From Catching-Up With Jerry
There are, however, three vital pieces of information you’ll need to follow along with my story: two pictures and a letter. You’ll find these below…
These are the two pictures:
One of my two favorite pictures of Pam when we first met. My Mom hadn’t met her when I took this back to Washington DC to show her the woman with whom I’d fallen desperately in love
I’ve been writing a lot. Here are some title pages of short stories.
And now, the letter:
October 23, 1010
Dearest Friends,
I’d like to share something with you. Yesterday something remarkable happened that will change my life forever. First, though…
A Brief History Of Time, me and The Humane Society of the United States
During the last six years, The Humane Society of the United States has become the most powerful and effective voice for animals on earth. The President and CEO of HSUS is Wayne Pacelle. I’ve known Wayne for a long time and we became especially close friends three years ago during the campaign for Proposition 2. This was the landmark ballot measure to lessen some of the unspeakable agonies suffered by 20 million animals living on factory farms in California. In addition to being a dear friend, Wayne is one of my very few heroes.
Here's a picture of Wayne and I
Under Wayne’s innovative guidance and wisdom, HSUS has become the most influential, most effectual animal protection organization in the world. Included in the long list of his remarkable accomplishments: HSUS membership has more than doubled to 11 million – or one in 28 Americans.
The more I learn about HSUS the more I am in awe. Its ability to affect sweeping, game-changing reforms to stop animal cruelty is astonishing. It consistently makes the impossible happen.
I invite you to take 30 seconds to see a very quick overview of a few HSUS accomplishments in 2009. Click here.
And in the first 9 months of 2010, HSUS has scored an astounding number of “impossible” victories for animals.
Three years ago, using my Tony Robbins skills, I made a decision: somehow, at some time during my life, I would become a member of the HSUS Board of Directors.
The longer I live, the more clarity I have: confronting animal cruelty is the driving force of my life. I am certain that protecting animals is why I am here. Martin Luther King said, “If you haven’t discovered something you’d die for, you don’t deserve to live”.
Now the reason for my note.
You know this: the most significant day of my life was February 23, 1988. On that day I met Pam and my whole world changed in one magnificent moment.
The second most significant day of my life was yesterday. Late in the afternoon, I got a call from Washington, D.C. I have been elected to the Board of Directors of The Humane Society of the United States.
Wow. It has happened.
I’m writing to you because we’re family and we love each other. You know me well enough to realize I have exactly zero ego in this. I didn’t win an Oscar or the Nobel Prize. This is 100% about the animals. I’m excited because I think I bring some unique skills to help HSUS help the critters. I am also so excited about the universe of knowledge waiting for me. The people of HSUS are brilliant. They are genius at the art and science of educating humans about animal abuse – and taking action to stop it. They do it with reason and kindness and within the boundaries of ethics and the law. They are stunningly effective agents of change.
You also know me well enough to appreciate this didn’t happen just because of me. Pam also has a passion for animals and tremendous compassion for their suffering. She has been an equal partner in everything we’ve done to help stop animal suffering – quite notably for Proposition 2. We’ve gone to every meeting, rally, event and ceremony together, and she has charmed everyone we’ve met at HSUS.
Every time I speak or produce an event for animals, Pam provides brilliant insight and suggestions – making it far better than it would have been. In this, as in all things, we are a tremendous team.
In my 59+ years, I have learned that confronting animal abuse is often difficult and almost always heart breaking. I have seen atrocities so horrific, they truly do not seem possible. I am constantly incredulous at the vastness and sheer horror of animal abuse – particularly institutional cruelty – on factory farms and laboratories. Most nights I can only go to sleep through the grace of prescription medication. Ambien is my best friend.
But I can also tell you with absolute certainty that I see a miraculous, quantum shift in how people think about animals. Particularly during the last decade, humans are moving to a higher level of consciousness about the creatures with which we share the earth. I believe HSUS is responsible for a great deal of this enlightenment.
Understand this: if something bad is happening in the world – to animals, to people, to the environment – no one’s contribution to stop it is greater or lesser than anyone else’s. A volunteer at a small animal shelter in North Dakota is just as “important” as Wayne speaking before the United States Congress. The reason I am so profoundly touched and excited to be on the HSUS Board is because of its ability to reach vast numbers of people; to confront animal cruelty both nationwide and internationally; to change how millions of people think about animals.
If you’re not already a member of HSUS, please join us. A family membership is only $35. You will be part of HSUS! Which is all about a little less suffering in the world. About changing hearts and minds. About one simple concept: compassion. Click here.
It was a stunning experience to wake up this morning and say to myself, “My God. I’m on the Board of Directors of the Humane Society of the United States”.
I know you’ll understand when I tell you that now – someday it will be OK with me to die.
My only sadness is that my mom isn’t here. My compassion for animals began with her teachings when I was just a little kid. She led me to the path and walked with me until I was old enough to navigate by myself. Throughout my life, she was always a couple steps behind me when I needed help or comfort. I so wish I could have called her yesterday. But somehow I gotta think she knows.
Love,
Mindy Bortness
January 28, 2011 7:47 AM
How you champion for animals drops me to my knees. My husband and I are just getting involved in The Rock Church Dog-Lover’s Ministry and are excited about their potential outreach. I’ve had animals my whole life and a love for the animal kingdom inherited from my Dad. On behalf of our Labs Jeff and Dennis, and our tabby cat Charlie (SD Humane), paws up to you. Blessings. Mindy.
Teresa LaRue
January 28, 2011 7:48 AM
Jerry,
First of all, Congratulations on becoming a director at the HSUS!!! That is just plain ole awesome, or as they say here in N.C. “ah-rite”. (all right) he he I too share a love for animals. I am owned by two little Papillons and 2 cats. I used to own, train and show Arabian horses as well. Ten years ago, we moved to N.C. We live in a little town very much like Mayberry. There really isn’t much of a Humane Society here. It breaks my heart with the amount of cats and dogs that are destroyed daily here. Up until a few years ago they actually shot the animals instead of humane euthanasia. I will not burden you with all the details but may ask your opinion on what can be done at some point. I just wanted to Congratulate you and say how great it is to hear you guys again. I used to listen to you when we lived in Ramona. You help fill my day with happiness and laughter which is a great stress reliever for me. Thanks so much for being “you”. I love you and all the gang. Have a great day and God Bless.
bye ya’ll
Susan
January 28, 2011 7:51 AM
This is wonderful and I too am compassionate about animals. I am so proud of you for what you have done and are continuing to do to help these wonderful creatures. THANK YOU and I am glad all of you are back. I have missed you all and felt an significant loss while you were gone. Love you guys!
Sherri Tankersley
January 28, 2011 8:05 AM
Congratulations Jerry and YEAH! for the animals. They now have a strong voice to protect and serve them. I am so happy for you and our animals.
Love having you and the gang back on the radio, as almost everyone says I’ve been a listener since the begining and have missed you guys so much. My mornings are now complete, when I get in the car and turn on the radio it feels like coming home, hearing your voices, it makes me very happy.
Jeanne Hamilton
January 28, 2011 8:11 AM
That was BEAUTIFUL Jer! I especially love your love of animals. I have been hoping to run into you somewhere in San Diego but have had no luck. So I’m really glad you are all back with us! My little Cream color Golden Retriever named Barney, has published a book! It’s called The Adventures of Barney…HELLO WORLD! I had his paw print made into a signature stamp so the books can be authentically signed by him. I would love to bring Barney by to meet you and give you your book. His main message is the importance of spay & neutering our pets and to bring awareness and kindness to all animals. I also support the Humane Society and have sent a book to Wayne Pacelli as well! Barney did a book signing at UCSD Thornton Hospital and he was a huge hit! You can view his book at http://www.rp-author.com/barney and see a few pictures of his book signing. Please let me know when we can come by to give you your book.
Wags and Licks,
Barney and J.P. Hamilton
Linda
January 28, 2011 8:20 AM
Jer,
Your talk this morning just beamed such sincerity and love through the waves that the tears rolling down my cheeks made me know that waiting the 17 months was so well worth it! I have been with you since forever and have loved your “family” feel and love for your listeners. I so admire your love for animals because I am an animal lover too. I just lost my sweet dog the Tues. before Christmas and I’m still dealing with this loss. I have another dog that has helped me cope with the loss. I have been a member of the Humane Society for as long as I can remember and have more umbrellas than I can count. Congratulations on your nomination to the Board, and WELCOME BACK!
A big HUG for you,
Linda
kathi
January 28, 2011 8:21 AM
Jerry, I listened this week with trepidation, almost not listening at all, but it appears there is a new Jerry, the old pompous Jerry is gone. Perhaps that was your radio persona as I have never met you, but it appeared through your comments of the past that you felt you were better than most of us. Regaling us with stories of great places you ate at, exotic places you traveled to, and tales of who you hob-nobbed with. I was greatly offended when you said one day in reference to Mervyns,” that is where the poor people shop”. I thought well, not everyone can shop Nordies and eat at Bussolocchies (misspelled, I know) that most of us work hard, shop where we can and eat out only occasionally. It sound like your journey was rough but at the same time everything does happen for a reason and you triumphed into a better, more appreciative person. congrats!
KELLY
January 28, 2011 8:22 AM
Jerry, Your “catch up” ….You did great.. listeners for everever, and, today i feel like i know you as a real person, not as by morning showgram guy.
Lisa
January 28, 2011 8:32 AM
Jerry i just donated money to the Humane Society Thank you for inspiring me to further help animals!
Deb
January 28, 2011 8:34 AM
What a great pic of you Jerry! Hey…….are we going to be able to listen to the audio of your “report” again?? I want it! Yes – I was crying all the way into work thank you very much. But I want my boyfriend to hear it. You and he are very much alike.
Tony Chalupnik
January 28, 2011 8:36 AM
Jerry, Thank you for sharing such a vulnerable piece of your life this morning. I’ve been listening to your show since ’88 and have always considered your show the standard for San Diego radio. Your energy and quick humor are so refreshing to hear again and have been missed. I attended your production many years ago called, “Bless The Beasts” and left that program feeling torn between farmers providing for their families and opposing certain processes in farming. I am not in the farming business but am in the construction industry that has been devastated by the current economy. I am struggling to keep our home and felt such a connection to you as you shared your story. We are living that reality Now! Today! My point is to keep your sensitivities open to the needs of farmers doing what God has put them on the earth to do:…produce food for people, in a way that can keep the process as humane as possible. Farmers are raising kids and have fears of losing everything just like you did. Congratulations on your appointment to the board of directors and best wishes for a long gig at KYXY! After the first week, it sounds like a great fit.
Nalen
January 28, 2011 8:59 AM
You made me cry this morning, Jerry. I am so happy for you and Pam. And what you do for the animals of the world is priceless. I’m so happy you and the crew are back on the radio. You’ve been missed dearly!
Jan Magdaleno
January 28, 2011 9:13 AM
Another loyal listener here. Jerry, your recap this morning was moving to say the least. I couldn’t admire you more for being the voice of so many defenseless animals. I ran to my computer and sent a donation to HSUS. My daughter runs a cat rescue in San Fran and works tirelessly to save so many. (www.petfinder.com/shelters/wondercatrescue.html) I too was laid off work and couldn’t agree more that so much good comes out of what we think are such bad times. You couldn’t have said it better! I now spend much more time with my elderly parents and cherish every moment. Grateful doesn’t even begin to explain my feelings. Now that you all are back, I have one more thing to be grateful for!!!
jacki
January 28, 2011 9:23 AM
Jerry you’re so sweet. Yours was the 1st message that I’ve cried to. The love you have for your wife sounds so wonderful. I’m sooooo glad you guys are back! I’ve listened to you for years. I met you & Jeff at the fair one year when you had the booth of star’s memorobilia. I overheard you & Jeff said “I love you” to each other the way you do on the air. You guys are just as real on air as you are in person! Which is a good thing. By the way I also miss Hanny and the games you would play with him. Are you planning on doing the “broken dishes” again? That was so funny…I really hope so. Well congratulations on your new job at KYXY. I’ll be listening everyday! Take care all of you!
Jodie French
January 28, 2011 9:24 AM
Man, I couldn’t agree more. I’m so happy you are sitting on that Board. I love animals. I have been a member of the Humane Society for years. I rescue dogs when I can. It just pisses me off to no end when I’m out walking or running (I live in Birdrock) and see dogs running in the street. I can’t count how many times I have taken a dog home with me and found their owner. Believe me, they didn’t like what I had to say either. I used to help a bunny that lived in our neighborhood. This bunny would be left outside day and night. Can you imagine. I leave my garage door open so that the neighborhood cats can come inside and sleep. I just don’t understand how people can own pets and then just leave them outside.
I just lost my beloved golden retreiver a few months ago and I feel like I lost my child. She was 11 and incredibly perfect.
We have 3 other dogs (my goldens brother, a little dachshund and a maltese). I’m looking to add to the family soon.
My passion in life would be to spend all my time to help/save our sweet animals.
Thanks Jerry!
Jodie
ps…Don’t you just love Muttropolis!
Lyn
January 28, 2011 9:25 AM
Congrats.. Jerry that was a great review of the last approx. year and 1/2.. I listened and thought to myself about my hubby when you spoke of the love you have for Pam .. thinking mine and my Allen’s life has changed too lately I also think it comes w/life (age we are also 59+) and the many changes in life. We live a simple/simple life depending on SS which I hear will run out when we are 76.. holy s…!! The love of our children and our grands/friends where would we be w/out them?? I feel closer to you today after your review and have to say I paused when you did and when Pam came on lost it.. Enjoy your life together.. Allen and I will celebrate 40 years on Sept. 4th.. can’t think of a better life!! enjoy. xoxo Lyn
Donna Morris
January 28, 2011 9:40 AM
Wow!! Jerry, you are an amazing man & an awesome ambassador for all animals!! The world needs more people like you
I have been a member of The Humane Society for a few years now & will continue to do so for the rest of my life- I am also very passionate about animals. I met you & Pam at Jingle Ball one year & have never forgotten how warm & sincere both of you were…it was the highlight of my evening. Please know how happy I am to hear all your voices back on the radio…my hour long drive to work has purpose again!! Keep up the great work & I look forward to many more years of the Jeff & Jer showgram 
:)
Peg in Santee
January 28, 2011 9:52 AM
Jerry, your story warmed my heart. I know you’ll understand when I share with you that I lost my mom in 2006 and I ache EVERY day that I can’t kiss her cheek. The next year my gorgious, sweet, 13 year old kitty died of lung cancer. We were completely in love with each other. I’m glad you all are back, and by the way, ask Pam if I can borrow you!! LOL
Ruth
January 28, 2011 9:55 AM
you the best jerry,,, hugs
Ruth
January 28, 2011 10:53 AM
you are the best jerry, lots of hugs
Denise
January 31, 2011 12:21 PM
Jerry, loved loved loved your story and all the others as well. I enjoy hearing about your weekends and trips and where you eat. Some people (Kathi) must not have a sense of humor about things like stores where the poor people shop (ha!) but please don’t change. We love you just the way you are!
Christina Binkowski
January 31, 2011 8:08 PM
amazing…I admire you for all you have done with animals. We have rescured three dogs and if I could I would rescue them all. I have disdain for anyone who injures or abuses an animal! thank you….
Cathy Buffington
February 9, 2011 3:38 PM
Reading a story about a “downed cow” caused me to become a vegetarian 30+ years ago. I find it hard to believe that I must continue to defend myself when I explain why I decided to stop eating meat and how the cruelty of which so many people are not even aware also keeps me awake at night. I’ve said so many times, “If you only knew of what happens, and thought about it long enough (as I have), you might be a vegetarian too.” Hearing you talk about your love of animals and now knowing you are on the board of the HSUS keeps me strong in my resolve to continue my fight. A fight I will never give up – and you are a part of that fight that keeps me strong. I will never be able to repay your kindness, except for sticking with my resolve to also help end the cruelty and by continuing not to be a part of it. Thanks, Jerry. You are truly my hero.
Linda
February 9, 2011 4:28 PM
Just wanted you to know that I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, Tom’s Toothpaste too! Those guys who say it has a bad taste must have tainted taste buds because I think it’ has a very pleasant, refreshing after-taste to it! Yeah for Tom’s!