GPA Trax
Newsletter of Greyhound Pets of America, Mass. Inc.

Millie Merritt - 25 Years of Devotion to Greyhounds

Millie Merritt loves dogs and all dogs love Millie Merritt. If Millie were standing empty handed in a room full of people holding dog biscuits, the dogs would still head straight for Millie. Aren't greyhounds fortunate she chose to dedicate 25 years of her life to their welfare instead of to some other breed?

Millie is one of the three original founders of REGAP (Retired Greyhounds as Pets) in New England. The others are John Furbush from Maine and the late Joan Dillon from Randolph, Mass. She first heard about REGAP in 1982 when reading an article in a Florida greyhound industry newspaper and immediately sent a donation to Ron Walsek, its founder and president.

She and Joan were attempting to find homes for some dogs that retired from the Belmont, NH track when Ron suggested they contact John to see if he could help. The three of them ended up working together and formed New England REGAP, the first of many REGAP chapters that would follow once the idea of adoption caught on.

In April of 1987, several REGAP chapters, most of which had been started by people connected in some way with the racing industry, regrouped to form Greyhound Pets of America. This new group continued to focus their efforts on greyhound welfare and adoption upon retirement, while remaining neutral towards racing. We felt this neutral stance and being friend, rather than foe, to people in the racing community contributed immensely to the number of greyhounds given up for adoption. Many "old timers" began to see their dogs in a different light. Their visions of loose greyhounds running around all over the place, killing small pets, or getting hit by cars, were replaced by photos and stories of greyhounds being the perfect family pet.

In New England, that was due in a large part to Millie's efforts as placement coordinator - matching the right dog to the right home situation. That position became especially important when we were supplying dogs to our sub-chapters in Maryland and Virginia.

Through the years, Millie has had a hand in almost every adoption. She is usually an adopter's first contact with our group. She also keeps all the adoption records and the ID tag information, making sure any lost dog gets back to its worried owner. She also sends out all the yearly reports, makes most of the post-adoption follow-up calls, and takes care of mailing out all the newsletters (except this one, of course).

Millie's efforts to promote greyhound adoption over the past 25 years are too numerous to list. She served as GPA, Mass. vice president in 1987, before taking over the position of treasurer. She made several appearances on television in the Boston area and did a weekly spot on Raynham/Taunton's race replay program. She's done meet and greets, race track pet exhibits, yard sales, nursing home visits, walk-a-thons, marched in parades, worked at craft fairs, and always manned our sales tables at each event.

Millie being awarded a commendation from the State of Massachusetts

On a personal note... I couldn't function as president without Millie's help. She always has any information I need and she's always there to remind me when it's time to start working on the newsletter, the dinner, the reunion, etc. Best of all, she always makes excuses for me when I start beating myself up about getting behind on things.

So, Millie, there's no gold watch after 25 years of service, but there's plenty of love and admiration from myself and many others. It's been an honor to work with you for 23 of those 25 years and even more of an honor to be considered your friend.

Millie,
Thank you for all you have done for the greyhounds over the years.
Nancy Buckland

Millie,
Thank you for all you have done. You are an inspiration.
Diane Dockery

Millie,
Happy 25th anniversary! Our dogs thank you for all your hard work.
Paula Goodwin

Millie,
Happy 25th anniversary. On behalf of Buzz and all the greyhounds, a "greyt" big thank you.
Helen Capeless

Congratulations and many more!
Elizabeth Gonneville

Good job and good luck!
Jeannie and Hilary Olson

Millie,
For all the paws you helped to pause and rest...before finding places in our homes and hearts. You are the best! Thank you.
Meredith and Jess Holderbaum

Dear Millie,
Without you there would be no GPA! The dogs love you and I love you.
Jackie Fressell

Thanks for all the good work you have done for all the greyhounds.
Jeff and Sue Goodall

Millie,
We have enjoyed all the conversations we have had since meeting you. Thank you so much for all you have done for the cause.
Cathy and John Christopher

Millie,
Without you, we would never have known the fun of owning a greyhound.
Pam and Sara Pacheco

Dear Millie,
You and your wonderful crew of volunteers have changed our lives. First we had Kit and, now, Fancy. We love you and all greyhounds. God bless you.
Peg and Bob Wiltshire

What can I say about someone who has loved dogs for over 80 years? I am so proud of my mom and the dedication, commitment, and, most of all, the passion she has for placing greyhounds with loving families. They have given her so much enjoyment. In earlier years, home visits with her cousin and best friend, Irene, usually included pizza at Papa Gino's. I know she has wonderful memories of those days. GPA has given as much to Mom as Mom has given to GPA. Today, after 25 years, she continues to love greyhounds and her many good friends at GPA
Rita Mitchell

Millie is a very special lady. She is so caring and dedicated to the greyhounds. God bless her.
Joe and Ann Landolfi, and Ozzie and Margo

Some GPA founders from N.E. - over 10 years ago: Kathy, Joan Dillon, Sandy Brosnan, John Furbush, Millie

Millie,
Thanks for all your dedication to the greys and for having such a big heart.
Michael and Maria DeLellis

Thank you for all the wonderful times we have had with GPA.
Mary and Bob Onessimo

God bless you, Millie, for being such a kind, wonderful and generous person. We are blessed to have both you and Midnight in our lives. May you be with us and our greyhounds for another 25 years!
Barbra and David Botelho and Midnight

     Our love of greyhounds began 8 years ago when we placed our first phone call to Millie. After talking to her, we found ourselves the proud parents of our beloved Moe...then Natalie...then Meg...then Katy. Millie is completely committed to making a difference in the lives of these magnificent, gentle animals. She cares about their lives and devotes enormous amounts of time and energy because she believes that you have to become involved to make an impact. When we think about Millie, we remember the passion spoken of in "The Star Thrower" by Dr. Loren Eiseley.

     One day, a wise man was walking on the beach before beginning his workday... As he walked, he looked down the beach and saw a human figure moving like a dancer. He walked faster to catch up. As he got closer, he saw that the figure was that of a woman, and that she was not dancing at all. She was reaching down to the sand, picking up small objects and throwing them into the ocean.
     He came closer still and called out, "Good morning! May I ask what it is that you are doing?" The woman paused, looked up, and replied, "Throwing starfish into the ocean."
     "I must ask, then, why are you throwing starfish into the ocean?" asked the somewhat startled wise man. To this, she replied, "The sun is up and the tide is going out. If I don't throw them in, they'll die."
     The wise man commented, "Do you not realize that there are miles and miles of beach, and there are starfish along every mile? You can't possibly make a difference!"
     At this, the woman bent down, picked up yet another starfish, and threw it into the ocean. As it met the water, she said, "IT MADE A DIFFERENCE FOR THAT ONE."

     Millie's devotion has made a difference in the lives of that one greyhound, and that one greyhound and that one greyhound...one forever home at a time.
Dan and Nancy Campbell

Dear Millie,
You came to my home 7(!) years ago to make sure I was worthy of a greyhound. I've got 7 years of Fido and thank yous for your decision to accept me. And thank you for all those CVS rendezvous from my car trunk to yours.
Love from us,
Karen Stein and Fido

     Back in the early 1980's, we met Millie Merritt through a neighbor in West Bridgewater, MA. They knew that Millie was looking for a home for a brindle, approximately 2 year old, female greyhound that hadn't had success in racing.
     We put in to take the dog, compatible with cats, and met Millie at our home. Millie arrived, and we knew instantly she was, and is, a most gracious, caring, trusting, and intuitive foster mother. We were drawn to her gentleness, and immediately knew we could turn to her for any inquiries about having a greyhound join the family. She apparently felt we were OK, trusting and believing we could give Daisy a loving home. We were convinced that any dog Millie placed would be blessed and most probably have a "fine family fit" with whatever family chosen. We, personally, couldn't have dreamed of a better match than with Daisy.
     When Daisy had to have a leg amputated for cancer here in Vermont, Millie was ever-present in phone calls and messages. We kept her apprised of the care and concerns we had until Daisy's time to go to where there was no more physical challenge.
      Not long after, Millie was in touch with us as we voiced desire to try another greyhound. We were, once again, rewarded by a pick of Millie's. This time we adopted an older dog, MiShy, who was with us for about two years, before succumbing to a malady.
      Millie was always eager to help with her adopter families in responding to questions and giving advice.
      Although we haven't physically visited in years, we keep in contact and have supported her work continuously. Millie's nature has always been loving, kind, supportive and gracious, and because of her introduction to us about the greyhound breed, we have remained close to the greyhound cause.
      Stewart and I laud Millie Merritt's tireless efforts in support of her loving venture of seeking caring and understanding homes for greyhounds, their well-being and bringing public attention to this once little appreciated, breed of dog. We applaud her.
      We submit these words with love and gratitude to a special lady.
Paula and Stewart Young
(Editor's note: Daisy was the very first dog placed by New England REGAP.)

Millie,
You're a wonderful person and I think all the years you've dedicated to saving greyhounds speaks for itself.
Susan Grebber, Butch, and Dream

Millie,
Your dedication and love of people and animals is so inspiring. The greys are blessed to have you as a savior.
Mike and Bob Lopes

     Millie is "Miss Greyhound Pets of America." She was the first person I called about greyhounds. Less than a month later, I had Eddie-Brindle. I loved him so much.
     Millie has such a love for all the greyhounds she has found homes for. She has put so much effort and hard work into helping these dogs, that I love so much also. She 's also worked hard to find ways to make money to take care of their daily needs. I enjoyed working with her at Raynham Park exhibits and appreciate all the work she did getting them all together, and for so many times.
      I want to say "Thank you, Millie, with all my heart."
Roberta Henricks

     This year GPA celebrated its 20th birthday. The first greyhound adopted was a dog named Rise, adopted by GPA's Massachusetts chapter. Since day one, GPA, Mass has been a part of our business, finding loving homes for retired greyhounds. 20 years is a long time to keep focus, but through thick and thin, the organization has not strayed from its mission.
      It's been said that in any successful organization you will find courageous, caring individuals that have been working on behalf of the mission for years. Your organization has one individual that has given of herself for 25 years.
      Let me be the first to congratulate GPA, Mass on 20 years of service, and your treasure, Millie Merritt, for 25 years of loyal service to the greyhounds.
      Thank you for all you do on behalf of the greyhounds, and please know that your efforts are greatly appreciated.
Rory Goree, President
GPA National

     I met Millie 20 years ago while looking for our first greyhound. We formed a fast friendship because of our love of the dogs. Over the years, through thick and thin, she's always been there for us, and vice versa. Be it from sitting at the track for hours on end or doing home checks, it was all done for love. She has never complained about any time spent on the dogs.
      She may have slowed down a bit after all the years but still has the same drive that helps save the dogs, day after day.
      Before rescue was the "en vogue" thing to do, she has always done it for one reason, and only one reason...because it was the right thing to do.
      She has cried with many people when their dogs crossed the rainbow bridge, and smiled with many when they brought their new dogs into their homes. She is the original greyhound guardian and always will be. Many more years, Millie!
Mary Frankio and Gina Chin

     I first met Millie when she and her cousin, Irene, came to my house for a home visit, prior to my adopting Jed. Shortly thereafter, I came to know her while doing meet and greets together, and then as a rep and board member.
      I admire Millie so much, not just for her tireless dedication to GPA and the greyhounds, but also for the caring person that she is. She is always quick with a sincere phone call, note, or card for any event - good or bad - affecting the lives of the people she knows.
      Congratulations on your 25th anniversary, Millie. Love you!
Debi Hoffenberg

"Auntie Millie,"
     You have been part of our lives for 10 years now. Thank you for being the best "auntie" Scotty ever had, and for all of your 25 years of dedication to greyhounds.
      With admiration and love,
Mary Beth Neary and family

	GPA reps and volunteers - circa 1996

Millie,
Best Wishes from Baldy's mom. He's the best dog in the world. Thanks for 25 years of great work.
Eleanor McKee

Millie,
Happy 25th anniversary. Thank you for all your support.
Annemarie and John Smith

Woof, woof, woof, woof,
From all the greyhounds you have helped over the years...thank you.
Buster and Betty Smith

Millie,
Congratulations on your first 25 years! I'm glad to have been a part of GPA during your tenure.
Melanie Donovan

Millie,
25 years and still going! You are an inspiration to us all. Thank you so much for all that you do.
Brad and Klair Conant

Millie,
Aljo Kennels thinks of you as the guardian angel of greyhounds. God bless you.
Joyce and Al Smith

What can I say about Millie? Only that she's the heart and soul of GPA, Mass. Without Millie, folks who donate to GPA might not realize just how much we appreciate their generosity. When we got married, we requested that in lieu of gifts, we would like people to donate to GPA, Mass. Each donation was acknowledged by a lovely Thank You note from Millie, who then called us and told us who donated what. We love you, Millie!
Halise Shrago and Martha Kohberger

I first spoke to Millie in 1994 when I called GPA to inquire about adopting a greyhound. She told me that they had a "bounce" that was 6 years old and being returned that weekend. Well, that "bounce" became my best friend and introduced me to this wonderful breed. When Kahlua went to the bridge in 2000, Millie told me about an Aljo litter in the kennel that had failed "Racing 101." That's when Magic came into my life...totally different from Kahlua but just as special. Millie knew the dogs and sure picked two winners for me. Magic has shared many snacks with Millie at meet and greets. Thanks, Millie.
Lynn Santilli

     What can I say about Millie Merritt? I'll tell you what. I started working with Millie when we were known as REGAP. I was the Rhode Island sub-chapter of REGAP, which later became known as Greyhound Pets of America.
      Millie was the rock of Gibraltar when it came to taking care of the adoption process for the greyhounds. She was always there when we needed her for anything whatsoever. Her devotion, compassion, and love and care of the greyhounds is impeccable.
      My compliments and congratulations to Millie for 25 years of the most wonderful and untiring work with our beautiful greyhounds. Most of all, Millie, thank you for your fabulous friendship over these past years.
June Bazar, Director
Lincoln Greyhound Adoption Program

Dear Millie,
We (greyhounds and their owners) have been truly blessed by your 25 years of perseverance and dedication. You've been true to your "mission" and we are very grateful.
Christine, Doug, Poppy, and Hayley White

Millie Merritt...a pioneer in greyhound adoptions since the early 1980's...never sought the limelight nor leadership positions, was always there to do the work...the heart and soul of GPA, Mass...a tireless worker to whom the greyhound adoption movement owes a tremendous debt...the best friend a greyhound ever had!
John Furbush
(John was one of our founders)

Sue Waldman, Ann Landolfi, and Millie in a reunion contest.

     We first met Millie a little over 8 years ago. We tearfully met her a week after our dog, Sammy, died. We had so many questions for her about greyhounds and thought we might like to adopt one. She was very gracious, patient, and informative, and we learned a lot about greyhounds from that meeting with her.
      We could see that she knew how we were feeling. Well, we left it in her capable hands and she matched us up with the perfect greyhound, Liberty. We called her for advice and information in the following weeks and she advised us very well. Millie, you are a great and wise lady - here's to your next 25 years among the "greyts"! We think you're wonderful.
Pam and Joe Perl

     It has been about 14 years since we met. After adopting our first greyhound, Elsie, you were just a phone call away when we had questions or concerns abut living with our new family member.
     You asked us to participate in fundraisers, join in at meet and greets, and remember all the reunions with all those first-place costumes!
     Remember our dad (John)...how you were both from the same section of Quincy, knew many of the same people, and had great times reminiscing about "the good ole days" at the reunions.
     Millie, you then asked Judy and I to be GPA reps, a really great and rewarding honor. We have learned from your knowledge about greyhounds and now, with Bandit, it's really coming in handy!
     Congratulations, Millie, on 25 years of continued service.
Marilyn, Judy, and Bandit Bouchard

     I first met Millie at a Lincoln Park adoption fair over 17 years ago. I liked her right away. Her friendliness and love for the greyhounds impressed me a lot.
     Over the years we became friends and my love and admiration for her grew each year. It's because of her that I have Sandy, as I was invited to the greyhound picnics even though I didn't have a greyhound.
     Her devotion to the greyhounds is extraordinary. They are lucky to have her and I am lucky to have her as a friend.
Sherri Klutchko
 

     Just a little note to tell Millie how much she is appreciated by so many people.
     I met Millie about six years ago when she helped me get my first greyhound, Cain. She told me what a love he was and she was right.
     Millie, thank you so much for being such an important part of GPA. I wish the very best for you...good health and happiness. Cain and Moonie said "thank you" also. You are the best.
Evelyn Sweeney

Millie,
     Thank you for helping us adopt our greyhounds, Courtland and Ruby, back in the early '90's. They brought us so much joy for so many years.
     We now have another greyhound that showers us with that special love that only the friendly greyhound seems to provide.
     Millie, your tireless efforts for the adoption and care of these wonderful animals is incredible...thank you so much.
Norma and John Haberer

       20 years ago, we decided to adopt our first greyhound. Millie was the placement rep that helped us through the process of adopting Rocky.
     Since then, we have adopted two more beautiful dogs, Sam and Seal, both with Millie's caring assistance. The love and joy our greyhounds have brought to our family would not have been possible without Millie's continued support and dedication to this wonderful cause.
     Congratulations, Millie, on 25 exceptional years of service!!
Lorna and Jim Ciavola

     I have known Millie since 1990. She was instrumental in the adoption of my very first greyhound, Jiggs.
     Millie was always there for me if I had any questions or problems regarding my first experience of owning a greyhound.
     Millie was always eager to raise money for GPA. I'll always remember the good times we had at the Raynham Dog Track, showing off our greyhounds and selling our merchandise.
Brenda Soule-Lee

A Special Thank You

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this special edition of GPA TRAX. Please accept my apology if it was necessary for me to edit your words to Millie. So many people wanted to express their feelings, I was running out of space. She was given the originals, so she could read each complete message from all of you.
 

Happy 20th Birthday to GPA

GPA celebrates its 20th year with over 65,000 adoptions and a chapter, or chapters, in nearly every state.

I'm sure that none of the founders of this group ever envisioned that it would grow to be the largest , single breed adoption program in the world. Go to, www.GreyhoundPets.org to read about the beginning of GPA on a national level. The home page has a 20-year-old picture of the founders taken at the first national meeting. See if you can pick out Millie and Kathy!
 

Annual Reunion and Picnic

Save the date...Sept. 9, 2007...Sunday. Watch for complete information in August.
 

Greyhound Walking Groups

Get out and enjoy the nice weather with your best friends...your dogs. If you live in Eastern Massachusetts, you don't need to travel far for the experience. In the greater Boston area, Greyhound Adventures hosts "adventures and expeditions" on a regular basis. See the schedule on their website, www.GreyhoundAdventures.org.

In Southeastern Mass, your best bet for a friendly, well-organized walk with your dog and others, is with Trailbound Hounds. Their website, www.TrailboundHounds.org, has all the information you'll need about their walking schedule and more.
 

Spring Buffet

They came, they ate, they partied - they even adopted! Our annual spring fundraiser exceeded our expectations. A special thank you to White's Bakery for donating the cake and to Annmarie Guthro, one of our adopters, for decorating it so beautifully. Another one of our adopters, Peg Wiltshire, surprised us with a donation of several, beautiful paintings of greyhounds, which she had done herself! Pam Pacheco, one of our frequent meet and greet goers, added a new greyhound, Molly B, to her family. All in all, it was a perfect day.

More on the dinner, including photos, will appear in the next newsletter.