Shasta's Future

[kline]

You know nothing can be done to change what has already happened,and we will be hearing alot of talking heads in political and legal circles bat sex offender legislation back and forth.
But how about something being done for this child?
Rather then just name a Bill after her, how about the State Of Washington
and/or The State Of N.Dakota offer something besides platitudes to a little girl who has been greviously injured by the failure of their judicial systems?
How about a full ride scholarship to the University of her choice in either one of those States upon completion of High School?
It wouldnt make it up but it would be a damn fine gesture.A start.

[IdahoMom]

I agree!

[Cowgirl]

Well, then. If blame is being assessed to various states in this case, should Minnesota not also catch some blame? After all, Washington made the freak pay for his first crime with a 20 year sentence. Minnesota apparently missed the seriousness of that act or else thought it was so long ago that it didn't count and let the guy have minimal bail when caught and identified by new victims. If we are going to chide states for their legal shortcomings and ask them to offer compensation to victims, then Minnesota should at least buy her books, shouldn't they?

[Usher737]

Does anyone know if a bank account has been set up to accept donations for Shasta's recovery?

[Liz]

You know nothing can be done to change what has already happened,and we will be hearing alot of talking heads in political and legal circles bat sex offender legislation back and forth.
But how about something being done for this child?
Rather then just name a Bill after her, how about the State Of Washington
and/or The State Of N.Dakota offer something besides platitudes to a little girl who has been greviously injured by the failure of their judicial systems?
How about a full ride scholarship to the University of her choice in either one of those States upon completion of High School?
It wouldnt make it up but it would be a damn fine gesture.A start.


Kline, that's a super idea!

Don't you mean the states of WA and MN? I don't understand how ND is, or was negligent. But, maybe I am forgetting something?

I think they (WA & MN) also ought to pay for all of the mental health counseling, Shasta's going to need. That will probably cost more than the scholarship.

And, I don't believe Steve has insurance to cover it, either.

That little miracle girl has an awfully long road to recovery! May God give her the strength and determination to continue to be a survivor!

[Cowgirl]

Does anyone know if a bank account has been set up to accept donations for Shasta's recovery?Per the MSNBC article:

http://msnbc.msn.com/id/8473378/

"...a monetary donation may be made to any U.S. Bank branch in Coeur d'Alene, or Inland Northwest Banks in Post Falls or Coeur d'Alene."

This was in response to too many teddy bears...

[Usher737]

Thanks so much Cowgirl!!! I will send something today!!

[Shazzie]

The Coeur d'Alene Chamber of Commerce membership roster has contact information for these banks and links to the banks' websites.

Inland Northwest Bank http://www.cdachamber.com/MemberInfo/DetailedResults.asp?WebID=1518

US Bank
http://www.cdachamber.com/MemberInfo/DetailedResults.asp?WebID=1523

[Liz]

Does anyone know if a bank account has been set up to accept donations for Shasta's recovery?

Took me awhile, as I had to make a couple phone calls to get the info, but here's all the info you need:

There are two banks in Coeur d'Alene that have accounts set up to accept donations for Shasta.

One is the U.S. Bank and the other is the Inland Northwest Bank.

To donate to the Inland Northwest Bank account, mail a check or money order to "Groene Memorial Fund" or "Shasta Groene Fund" to them at:

Inland NW Bank
955 Ironwood Drive
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814

Telephone # 208-664-8747, if you want to call them

=====================

To make a donation to Shasta thru a U.S. Bank, just go to any branch anywhere and tell them you want to donate to Shasta Groene's account and they will look it up and you can deposit it right into her account.

IF you prefer to send it to US Bank's, their two addresses are:

1) 302 Sherman Ave, CDA, ID 83814
208-769-4500
2) 1603 4th Street, CDA, ID 83814
208-769-4661

[Berksleuth]

Even if Steve's insurance does cover Mental Health, I am sure it is not optimal. She is owed (at least) therapy by a leading psychologist in addition to a full college scholarship.

Most important, she needs to know that this injustice was SO wrong that the laws were changed to prevent it from happening again.

[Liz]

Even if Steve's insurance does cover Mental Health, I am sure it is not optimal. She is owed (at least) therapy by a leading psychologist in addition to a full college scholarship.

Most important, she needs to know that this injustice was SO wrong that the laws were changed to prevent it from happening again.


Oh, I couldn't agree more, Berk! Right on!

[Liz]

Just received a response to the email I sent earlier to Duane Henderson, at Inland Northwest Bank:

From: dhenderson@inb.com(Duane*Henderson)
Date: Mon, Jul 11, 2005, 10:07am
To: Liz (from Liz)
Subject: RE: Shasta Groene Account


Good morning, Liz.

Yes, there is an account established here. You can mail a check or money order to the account at the following address:

Inland Northwest Bank
Groene Family Memorial Fund
955 Ironwood Dr
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814

It's such a tragic situation, and I know the donations will be greatly appreciated.

Best regards,

Duane Henderson
Inland Northwest Bank

Mods note: I did get Mr. Henderson's permission to post his name & bank email addy. Email me, and I'll forward it to you, if needed

[Usher737]

Thanks so much for the informative responses! It is nice to know that people here are willing to help victims of this tragedy! I hope everyone involved or interested in the case will make a donation.

[Jvon]

You know nothing can be done to change what has already happened,and we will be hearing alot of talking heads in political and legal circles bat sex offender legislation back and forth.
But how about something being done for this child?
Rather then just name a Bill after her, how about the State Of Washington
and/or The State Of N.Dakota offer something besides platitudes to a little girl who has been greviously injured by the failure of their judicial systems?
How about a full ride scholarship to the University of her choice in either one of those States upon completion of High School?
It wouldnt make it up but it would be a damn fine gesture.A start.
This is the very, very least we could do.

[Jvon]

Per the MSNBC article:

http://msnbc.msn.com/id/8473378/

"...a monetary donation may be made to any U.S. Bank branch in Coeur d'Alene, or Inland Northwest Banks in Post Falls or Coeur d'Alene."

This was in response to too many teddy bears...
Thank you.

[Bobbisangel]

Kline, that's a super idea!

Don't you mean the states of WA and MN? I don't understand how ND is, or was negligent. But, maybe I am forgetting something?

I think they (WA & MN) also ought to pay for all of the mental health counseling, Shasta's going to need. That will probably cost more than the scholarship.

And, I don't believe Steve has insurance to cover it, either.

That little miracle girl has an awfully long road to recovery! May God give her the strength and determination to continue to be a survivor!


Crime Victims Comp will pay for all of the therapy and anything else to do with Shasta's healing. That will probably be through Idaho as it is the state that she lives in. They will contact Shasta's dad. They paid for my grandaughter's therapy for about 9-10 years. They will pay for the therapy as long as she needs it...for years and years.

I would think that someone has set up a trust fund at a bank in Idaho for Shasta's education. People can donate to the trust fund and it can't be touched until Shasta turns 18 yrs and she can use it for college or really for whatever she wants if she doesn't want to go to college.

[kline]

Yeah,I probably should have said Minnesotta instead of N.Dakota.....

ah but what the hell..Ill blame N.Dakota too!
To be fair though,as ive pointed out before Idaho has released its share of dangerous sex offenders back onto the bricks beleive me this a nationwide problem.
Wouldnt it be cool if states were 100% financially liable for any and all bodily injury commited by paroled or released sex offenders?
We wouldnt have to talk about tougher sentencing then!The state legislature would jerk every level three offender off the street and grind them into dog food in about two weeks flat.Youd think a pervert Rapture had occured.
Seriously thanks to all for the Shasta Fund info. There is a US Bank right here in Orofino.
I would just like Shasta to have afuture to look forward to that is a lot more compelling then the past that is going to be with her always.So she could know that there are good and beautiful things in the world still and that there is purpose and joy and safety waiting for her.More then the darkness she saw where Duncan's soul should have been.
Friday is payday...I think Ill go down to US bank and buy Shasta's Barbie a sports car.

[Liz]

To be fair though,as ive pointed out before Idaho has released its share of dangerous sex offenders back onto the bricks beleive me this a nationwide problem.


You're going to love what I heard on the news tonight then. Idaho Dept of Corrections is working on legislation to "lock up sex offenders for the rest of their lives"!!!! Yippeee! Hoorah!!! And, all that jazz! :) Kudos to the Idaho DOC!


Wouldnt it be cool if states were 100% financially liable for any and all bodily injury commited by paroled or released sex offenders?


You must have read my mind, Kline. I've thought of this and think it's a great idea! :) Just like I'd already thought about Steve and the rest of his family suing the state of MN and WA, to recover from the great losses they've all suffered. I'm not so sure about throwing in ND; as I think they were doing a fair job of keeping track of JED. And, JED did appear to be a law abiding sexual predator there. (Sounds laughable, doesn't it?)


We wouldnt have to talk about tougher sentencing then!The state legislature would jerk every level three offender off the street and grind them into dog food in about two weeks flat.Youd think a pervert Rapture had occured.


What a Godsend that would be!


Seriously thanks to all for the Shasta Fund info. There is a US Bank right here in Orofino.


I cheerfully provided what I did! :) You're most welcome!


I would just like Shasta to have afuture to look forward to that is a lot more compelling then the past that is going to be with her always.So she could know that there are good and beautiful things in the world still and that there is purpose and joy and safety waiting for her.More then the darkness she saw where Duncan's soul should have been.


Agreed. I wish all that and more for Shasta. From now on, I hope she gets the very best life has to offer! Most of all, may she be surrounded with all encompassing love.


Friday is payday...I think Ill go down to US bank and buy Shasta's Barbie a sports car.


LOL! That's very cute, Kline. :p And, sweet and thoughtful of you, too!


We've got a US Bank here in our little town, too. I think I prefer mailing it to the Inland NW Bank, in CdA, because they're a local & independent bank. I like supporting "small town USA" businesses.

Then again, US Bank has some type of headquarters in CdA, that employs about 600 people; so that's a good thing.

Either way, it's for a great cause, for sure!

[CaliKid]

Wouldnt it be cool if states were 100% financially liable for any and all bodily injury commited by paroled or released sex offenders?
That makes sense to me. It might make some of these criminals-rights lawmakers change their tune.

[spydog]

I think that the perps themselves should help pay for their victims (financially I mean). Why not put them to work instead of sitting in the cells, and have the money go to their victims!

[mysteriew]

I think that the perps themselves should help pay for their victims (financially I mean). Why not put them to work instead of sitting in the cells, and have the money go to their victims!

I love that idea, and I think they were making them work for a while. Then prison advocates started complaining about it- against the prisoners rights you know- slavery, forced labor, cruel and unusual and all of that bull. A couple of prisons still have them working on public works (on a volunteer basis) but for the most part, most of the prisons backed off of that. I don't think there was ever a time when the criminals have ever given their earnings to the victims. I think it is a good idea. Some parents may get offended, as money would not replace their murdered child, but they could always give the money to a victims program if they didn't want the money.

[ewwwinteresting]

I think that the perps themselves should help pay for their victims (financially I mean). Why not put them to work instead of sitting in the cells, and have the money go to their victims!
Great idea! Instead of the poor taxpayers having to pay, I say have the Judges who let these psychos out pay. Why are doctors liable for what they do, but Judges aren't?? If Judges had to start paying for the damage the people they let out caused, we sure would have a different system in place.

[CaliKid]

Malpractice insurance for lawyers and judges.

[mysteriew]

Great idea! Instead of the poor taxpayers having to pay, I say have the Judges who let these psychos out pay. Why are doctors liable for what they do, but Judges aren't?? If Judges had to start paying for the damage the people they let out caused, we sure would have a different system in place.

I agree. Judges and the Dept of Corrections Parole Board should be more liable for the decisions they make. Maybe then they would start doing more research into these guys history, and think more about the dangers to society, instead of prisoners rights and the budget and overcrowding.

[Liz]

Immunity

This freedom from charge or obligation, which others are subject to, from civil liability for any acts performed in the judge's official capacity.

The immunity is absolute, provided only that the judge is acting within his or her jurisdiction. The scope of the judge's jurisdiction must be constructed broadly to protect the court's independence; therefore, the judge will not be deprived of immunity because the action taken was in error, was done maliciously, or was in excess of the judge's authority; rather, the judge will be subject to liability only when the action taken was in clear absence of all jurisdiction.


Abuse of Discretion

After saying there is nothing you can do about a judge, it is important to be aware that there is some recourse. If you can find help and if you can afford the help, it may be possible to do something about the judge if you can prove Abuse of
Discretion.

Abuse of Discretion is: Any unreasonable, unconscionable or arbitrary action taken without proper consideration of the facts and law pertaining to the matter, a standard of review applied by appellate courts in reviewing the exercise of flexible but sensible course of action taken by trial courts and administrative agencies and persons; used by reviewing courts to upset determinations made when such determinations are wholly inconsistent with the facts and circumstances before the court, and the deductions that can reasonably be made from the facts and circumstances.

Source (http://www.lawsuits.com/Judges.htm)

[openminded1]

How about a full ride scholarship to the University of her choice in either one of those States upon completion of High School?
It wouldnt make it up but it would be a damn fine gesture.A start.
I think one of the better schools in the area should offer tuition for her to finish primary school and secondary school as well. For all the kid has been through, she shouldn't have to suffer or get a fraction of an education in a public school.

I also think that as from this moment on, all pictures of her need to stop being put out in the media- especially that disturbing video of her walking into that store with Duncan. She has been found, no one needs to be on the look out for her now. She does not need to be the center of a media circus. I hope she gets privacy to be with her family.

[Liz]

I think one of the better schools in the area should offer tuition for her to finish primary school and secondary school as well. For all the kid has been through, she shouldn't have to suffer or get a fraction of an education in a public school.

I also think that as from this moment on, all pictures of her need to stop being put out in the media- especially that disturbing video of her walking into that store with Duncan. She has been found, no one needs to be on the look out for her now. She does not need to be the center of a media circus. I hope she gets privacy to be with her family.

I'm no psychologist, but I think in the immediate future, Shasta will probably need some stability and security. (Really more like "a lot"!) I would think that could probably best be accomplished with her attending her old and familiar school, Fernan Elementary; with the old and familiar faces she's acquainted with. She's known to be a very shy little girl, as it is. Therefore, to place her in a totally different school, I think just might be detrimental. But, that's just my un-professional opinion.

I do agree that it would be a very good idea to quit re-running that video footage of Shasta; even though she is allegedly not watching any such tv programming.

I so want her to be allright. And, I worry so about it; with her losing her best & closest buddy in life, "Dylan". "Salt and Pepper", as they were known by teachers at school.

[mysteriew]

The two of you are making very good points. Other than getting justice for Mark, Brenda, Slade, and Duncan- there is nothing more we can do for them.

Shasta however is still a living breathing child and should be allowed to regain as normal a life as she can manage. And that includes not having her friends telling her- I saw you on TV last night! You think that you can hide and shelter these kids, but you can't really. The only way to be sure she is not hearing things, is if she is being totally isolated, and that would not be good for her.
Maybe as responsible watchers of the media, maybe we could mount an email compaign to the media to ask that they now give Shasta her privacy, by no longer publicizing her picture or video. That is one thing we can do for her.

[kline]

Ive wondered about that too....I really hope she can re-enter public school thats going to be really touchy...Its going to be awhile before adults in public treat her normally.( much less kids)I mean people wanting to scoop her up and hug her and say you poor thing! Is totally understanable but its going to wear thin for her pretty fast.She's going to need all of our prayers.

[openminded1]

I really hope she can re-enter public school thats going to be really touchy...
Well, I don't think any child belongs in 80% of the public schools out there these days, especially not a child who has lived through this. In public school, she will be forced to focus on other children. Her whole life would have to revolve around blending into the crowd in order to not be picked on by the gangs of daycare orphans that dominate the public schools today.

What she needs, IMO, is to focus on herself. She needs to grieve for her family. She needs to continue to get an education in an environment that treats children as individuals. I certainly do not think she needs to be in a school for as many hours as the public schools have to run to fufill their number one purpose- babysitting. I firmly believe that knowledge is power, and if this child could be given some education in philosophy and psychology, it would help her come a long way in her recovery. Most public schools do not offer up that kind of knowledge to elementary students.

She needs peers, and peers are not just a bunch of kids who were thrown together just becuase they happen to be the same age. She needs to be around kids who have been through sexual abuse and can understand what she is feeling. I hope Elizabeth Smart is planning to visit this little girl and keep in communication with her. I would be making arrangements for those two girls to spend as much time together as possible.

I realize that some people think our schools are fabulous and wonderful, and respect their right to have that opinion. Personally, I wouldn't send my dog there, and it makes my heart hurt to think of poor Shasta being abused all over again. I am just saying what I would say if this was a family member asking me what to do.

[Nchadwickaz]

It is so hard to say what is best, how do you expect anyone at this point to know -- treating her normal could cause her to feel as though no one understands or cares about her ordeal whereas, scooping her up and saying you poor thing could make her emotionally distraught and unable to cope..... so sad and then the uncomfortableness of people not knowing what to do will probably be very apparent and will possibly push or make her push others away and issolation that would be devasting.

I feel for this child so much, especially since I can identify so much with her upbringing up until this horrible even happened -- but another huge obstacle is the fact that she has seen or knows of her family's use of drugs (whether it is street or prescribed by psych) and the "needing to not feel".... not sure how else to explain it.

The underlining reason that people use drugs and alchohol *and took me a while to really see this in my life, and analysis of motivation* is escaping and trying not to feel -- to be numb to your feelings. Her parents were not "bad" people, nor are others that use drugs -- it is there way, some all they know, of how to deal w/ life.

The worse thing that could happen right now is for the professionals to give her psych meds or anything to ease the stress -- or for anyone to "act normal" around her
She needs to feel this and hopefully the people around her can also feel and discuss and deal with.

Obviously this is only my opinion... and am just rambling by now...

[Cowgirl]

The underlining reason that people use drugs and alchohol *and took me a while to really see this in my life, and analysis of motivation* is escaping and trying not to feel -- to be numb to your feelings. Her parents were not "bad" people, nor are others that use drugs -- it is there way, some all they know, of how to deal w/ life.


Obviously this is only my opinion... and am just rambling by now...I totally agree with your "ramblings" in regard to the use of drugs. Whether the drugs are legal or illegal, mind altering drugs all do the same thing: provide an escape from feelings that hurt too much to deal with. In my youth, I took "party" drugs and it took a long time for me to recognize what you are saying here as well. Since Brenda Groene was found to have trace amounts of meth in her system the Holier-than-thou's out there were whispering about drug labs and drug-induced murder. But anyone who knows anything would know that no one takes meth to prepare for a barbeque!

What irks me is those who use legal drugs--booze, valium, xanax, whatever--and pretend that somehow that is different from using illegal ones. The only difference is that you probably won't be arrested for using the legal ones. But to get sanctimonious and act like somehow using legal drugs makes you a better person than someone using illegal ones is phony nonsense to me. Booze is the most destructive of all of the drugs, by far!

Most of us have a hard time accepting the premise that "Life sucks, then you die" and there are many things used to take the edge off of that reality. Whether one opts to numb the pain with pills, pot, booze, or religion is a personal choice. Reality just blows sometimes.

I have no idea how Shasta's needs should be met. Hopefully, whatever method is employed by those who love her will be the right one.

[mysteriew]

The worse thing that could happen right now is for the professionals to give her psych meds or anything to ease the stress -- or for anyone to "act normal" around her
She needs to feel this and hopefully the people around her can also feel and discuss and deal with.

Obviously this is only my opinion... and am just rambling by now...

I am afraid I am going to have to disagree with you here.
Shasta will be dealing with Grief- loss not only of her mother, but also 2 btothers and a step father. She will be going through a period of loss and the assosciated feeling that go with it.
She will possibly be suffering PTSD from the trauma and fear that she suffered. She may have nightmares, periods of uncontrolled crying, anger, depression, and a number of other emotions.
She may also come to suffer from something called survivor's guilt. Of the homes occupant's, she is the only survivor. She lived when her other family died. She could be regretful that she lived, when the others died. She could feel guilt that she didn't do anything to stop what happened (not rational, but a common reaction).
She is 8 yrs old. That is a big load for an 8 yr old to carry. By careful monitoring and careful use of pharmacology they can help to ease the worst of the feelings, allowing them to be handled in a controlled way, a little at a time with ongoing psych therapy. Instead of becoming overwhelmed with her feelings and reactions, she will work on them a little at a time.
She will recieve a lot of different types of therapy- which may include talk therapy, play therapy, art therapy, and several other types that I can't think of right now. Psych drugs are just one more type of therapy. The studies on using drugs to treat children don't show any indicators that they lead to drug abuse. To deny her the psych drugs at this time would be like denying a person pain drugs after a surgery. Not only cruel, but also possibly detrimental to her full recovery.

[Beyond Belief]

I'm really concerned about Shasta. Its not like she has a common name like Mary. I know she'll get all kinds of good professional help, and support and love from her family. I just hope they get her involved in something, just an example, like horsebackriding, or something where she can excel. Her thing, Shasta the girl winning the competitions, not the girl who suffered that tragedgy. Just a thought.

[LinasK]

I am afraid I am going to have to disagree with you here.
Shasta will be dealing with Grief- loss not only of her mother, but also 2 btothers and a step father. She will be going through a period of loss and the assosciated feeling that go with it.
She will possibly be suffering PTSD from the trauma and fear that she suffered. She may have nightmares, periods of uncontrolled crying, anger, depression, and a number of other emotions.
She may also come to suffer from something called survivor's guilt. Of the homes occupant's, she is the only survivor. She lived when her other family died. She could be regretful that she lived, when the others died. She could feel guilt that she didn't do anything to stop what happened (not rational, but a common reaction).
She is 8 yrs old. That is a big load for an 8 yr old to carry. By careful monitoring and careful use of pharmacology they can help to ease the worst of the feelings, allowing them to be handled in a controlled way, a little at a time with ongoing psych therapy. Instead of becoming overwhelmed with her feelings and reactions, she will work on them a little at a time.
She will recieve a lot of different types of therapy- which may include talk therapy, play therapy, art therapy, and several other types that I can't think of right now. Psych drugs are just one more type of therapy. The studies on using drugs to treat children don't show any indicators that they lead to drug abuse. To deny her the psych drugs at this time would be like denying a person pain drugs after a surgery. Not only cruel, but also possibly detrimental to her full recovery.
Excellent summary, Mysteriew! Well-stated.:clap: :clap:

[IdahoMom]

I'm really concerned about Shasta. Its not like she has a common name like Mary. I know she'll get all kinds of good professional help, and support and love from her family. I just hope they get her involved in something, just an example, like horsebackriding, or something where she can excel. Her thing, Shasta the girl winning the competitions, not the girl who suffered that tragedgy. Just a thought.
I know I will never forget this little girl...her face, smile, or name. I pray she has some degree of anonymity in her life.

This case has altered my view of mankind.

[Cowgirl]

I know I will never forget this little girl...her face, smile, or name. I pray she has some degree of anonymity in her life.

This case has altered my view of mankind.It kind of makes you stop thinking about how he got that depraved and makes you think about how we can recognize them before this happens, doesn't it? The more of these animals that are exposed, the less I trust anyone, even my boyfriend says I am becoming more suspicious of people.

Right and wrong, good and evil...how people have faith in anything is beyond me. I just don't see how any higher power could allow this to happen to children. But I know that is not a discussion for this board. It just confirms my own lack of faith more and more. How I envy those who can "keep the faith" among such monsters.

[Liz]

Crime Victims Comp will pay for all of the therapy and anything else to do with Shasta's healing. That will probably be through Idaho as it is the state that she lives in. They will contact Shasta's dad. They paid for my grandaughter's therapy for about 9-10 years. They will pay for the therapy as long as she needs it...for years and years.

I would think that someone has set up a trust fund at a bank in Idaho for Shasta's education. People can donate to the trust fund and it can't be touched until Shasta turns 18 yrs and she can use it for college or really for whatever she wants if she doesn't want to go to college.


I'm not familiar with "Crime Victims Comp", and I think it's great if they do pay for things like that, Bobbiesangel. Glad to hear they helped your Granddaughter out. :)

But, the way I feel about it is, why should they? Why not let them put those funds towards some other child, who may not be able to get the help they need; and let the states of MN and WA pick up the tab for Shasta's mental health counseling? There has to be some accountability, imo. And, who would be more accountable than the state judges and parole boards who allowed this piece of filth to troll our streets?

Also, I am not aware of any trust funds that have been set up for Shasta. I've only heard of the two banks that are accepting funds that are to go to Shasta; but not specifically designated as 'trust funds', per se. That sounds like a splendid idea, though!

[Beyond Belief]

I know I will never forget this little girl...her face, smile, or name. I pray she has some degree of anonymity in her life.

This case has altered my view of mankind.
That was beautifully said. I pray for the same for her.

[SeaHag]

"Trust funds, living trusts, benefits, concerts and counseling sessions, all to support the 8-year-old and the people affected by recent tragedies, are being planned, set up, then played out all over town.

Michelle Williams, one of Shasta's teachers at Fernan Elementary, who visited Shasta in the hospital after her rescue July 2, contacted Cami Popiel of Horace Mann Insurance to set up a trust for the little girl who "loves to paint her toes and fingernails." The trust is for anything Shasta could possibly need in the years ahead, including dental work and braces and college tuition.

An attorney will handle the legalities of the trust that requires a court order to open and can take up to two months.

"This trust will be closely monitored so that nobody except Shasta will benefit," said Popiel, who is also setting up a Web site to show exactly where the money will go. "Steve may be her daddy, but she's also our little girl." Popiel added that many people in the area have e-mailed ABC's "Extreme Makeover," urging the team to come to Coeur d'Alene to build the Groenes a new home.

A living trust through the Windermere Foundation, a nonprofit that is part of Windermere Coeur d'Alene Realty, has been set up for Shasta for medical, psychological, emergency and higher education costs. Her family will not have access to the money except through the trust's attorney, Doug Marfice."


http://www.cdapress.com/articles/20...news/news03.txt (http://www.cdapress.com/articles/2005/07/13/news/news03.txt)

[Dara]

SeaHag, thank you for posting (another) great article.

I was already crying when I got to this:

A remembrance scrapbook of "Dylan stories" is now being written by Fernan teachers and staff. Some staff members are also putting together a trust fund for Shasta.
So much generosity and thoughtfulness.

I understand why there is so much emphasis on only Shasta being helped by the trust, but I hope that helping her means helping the family, at least in terms of therapy. Mostly because they're all going to need to know how to help her for a long time.

[Cowgirl]

SeaHag, thank you for posting (another) great article.

I was already crying when I got to this:


So much generosity and thoughtfulness.

I understand why there is so much emphasis on only Shasta being helped by the trust, but I hope that helping her means helping the family, at least in terms of therapy. Mostly because they're all going to need to know how to help her for a long time.Dara,

Even if there is lousy victim's compensation funding in Idaho (and I have no reason to think it is lousy--all states have them) I have a feeling that a philanthropist will step forward and provide things like that. There are some very good generous rich people who don't want their names in the Guinness Book (ahem) to announce to the world that they are stepping in to lend a hand, but will pay for such things. Steve Groene has insurance where he works but you know how that is -- 28 scheduled visits and they are through! But both he and she and whoever else is in charge of her care are going to need plenty of therapy, maybe for the rest of their lives.

I looked at Brenda Groene's pictures in the funeral parlor's site and it was just heartbreaking to get to know her a little. But the pix they had for the boy -- they included lots of pix of Shasta and Dylan in them -- really breaks you up.

Shasta's aunt said the land where that home is will never be sold and they are talking about bulldozing the house and having a memorial there. (It was Mark McKenzie's home, not Brenda's)

[Tom'sGirl]

"Trust funds, living trusts, benefits, concerts and counseling sessions, all to support the 8-year-old and the people affected by recent tragedies, are being planned, set up, then played out all over town.

Michelle Williams, one of Shasta's teachers at Fernan Elementary, who visited Shasta in the hospital after her rescue July 2, contacted Cami Popiel of Horace Mann Insurance to set up a trust for the little girl who "loves to paint her toes and fingernails." The trust is for anything Shasta could possibly need in the years ahead, including dental work and braces and college tuition.

An attorney will handle the legalities of the trust that requires a court order to open and can take up to two months.

"This trust will be closely monitored so that nobody except Shasta will benefit," said Popiel, who is also setting up a Web site to show exactly where the money will go. "Steve may be her daddy, but she's also our little girl." Popiel added that many people in the area have e-mailed ABC's "Extreme Makeover," urging the team to come to Coeur d'Alene to build the Groenes a new home.

A living trust through the Windermere Foundation, a nonprofit that is part of Windermere Coeur d'Alene Realty, has been set up for Shasta for medical, psychological, emergency and higher education costs. Her family will not have access to the money except through the trust's attorney, Doug Marfice."


http://www.cdapress.com/articles/20...news/news03.txt (http://www.cdapress.com/articles/2005/07/13/news/news03.txt)Just my thoughts and opinion on this..........I feel a Trust Fund for ONLY Shasta's needs through the years is acceptable and will be well spent if handeled by a legal person.

With thought to building the Groene's a new home, I have some troube with that as the house Shasta lived in was Mark McKenzies property.

I think with all due respect, the Groene family with so many family members will give Shasta a good home if Steve is unable to provide one for the two of them.

[Cowgirl]

Just my thoughts and opinion on this..........I feel a Trust Fund for ONLY Shasta's needs through the years is acceptable and will be well spent if handeled by a legal person.

With thought to building the Groene's a new home, I have some troube with that as the house Shasta lived in was Mark McKenzies property.

I think with all due respect, the Groene family with so many family members will give Shasta a good home if Steve is unable to provide one for the two of them. Well, Steve Groene must be living someplace, isn't he? Geraldo Rivera said that Steve is a very hard working man. I don't see any reason why he could not provide a home for her.

[Tom'sGirl]

Well, Steve Groene must be living someplace, isn't he? Geraldo Rivera said that Steve is a very hard working man. I don't see any reason why he could not provide a home for her.
I have no idea as to where he is staying now Cowgirl, he had been living with Darlene but no clue as to where he is now.

[Dara]

Dara,

I have a feeling that a philanthropist will step forward and provide things like that. There are some very good generous rich people who don't want their names in the Guinness Book (ahem) to announce to the world that they are stepping in to lend a hand, but will pay for such things. Steve Groene has insurance where he works but you know how that is -- 28 scheduled visits and they are through! But both he and she and whoever else is in charge of her care are going to need plenty of therapy, maybe for the rest of their lives. I think someone will fill that gap (if there is one), too. I get the sense (wishful thinking?) that Shasta's remaining family are doing an awful lot right during this difficult time. If they are, maybe they're getting some guidance already or just know how to help her. I can't imagine being in their situation. I was also glad to read that the school doing so much for Shasta and other children. They're really thinking of what they need to do.

I looked at Brenda Groene's pictures in the funeral parlor's site and it was just heartbreaking to get to know her a little. But the pix they had for the boy -- they included lots of pix of Shasta and Dylan in them -- really breaks you up.
Oh, gosh, I haven't seen those and am not sure I want to. The one photo of Dylan I've seen haunts me.

[mysteriew]

SeaHag, thank you for posting (another) great article.

I was already crying when I got to this:


So much generosity and thoughtfulness.

I understand why there is so much emphasis on only Shasta being helped by the trust, but I hope that helping her means helping the family, at least in terms of therapy. Mostly because they're all going to need to know how to help her for a long time.

I agree. They are a middle class family and Shasta will have a lot of expenses getting the help she needs. But the father and brothers will also need help too. They can help Shasta more, if they get help themselves. During the recovery process Shasta could display a lot of acting out or depressive behaviors. If they are having problems coping with their own grief and other feelings, they would be less prepared to cope with her. And a stable home is top priority in dealing with a child who has been through so much.

[mysteriew]

All the money, teddy bears and "I'm sorrys" in the world will not erase the past two months of Shasta Groene's life.

They are not meant to.

But they are the only possessions that thousands of people who cannot get within arm's length of the 8-year-old know how to give.

Many of the gifts and clothes Shasta has received are being given to children at the hospital, to deputies and police officers who carry stuffed animals in their squad cars lest they happen upon a child in need of a toy, to Children's Village and many more agencies.

Groene likened his and Shasta's "giving some away" to what happened in the movie, "Pay It Forward," a story about a boy who asked that if anything nice happened to somebody, they would pay it forward by doing something nice for someone else.

"The gifts that were sent to Shasta will now help other kids. They may have not been through the same things, but some of them have tough lives," Groene said.

Shasta's regular visits to a psychologist will continue for a very long time, Groene said. He has considered talking to one, too, but for now Shasta's emotional health and security is his greatest concern.

The name Shasta has become a household name, the only name needed for an envelope originating in New York or Oregon to reach the girl who personally opens every gift, every card herself.

Groene said the mail lady brings an armful of mail and packages every day and that the only address is: Shasta in Coeur d'Alene.

And that's where he would like people to send things.

"The post office people know where we live," said Groene, whose daughter will someday feel compelled to respond publicly to thank all those who are making her smile a little more every day.
http://www.cdapress.com/articles/2005/07/14/news/news02.txt

[tired.old.hag]

I love the idea of a new house for Steve and Shasta. Maybe Oprah will build them one :)

I also think it would be wonderful if they get enough funds so that Steve can be a stay-at-home dad. I'd imagine it will be a very long time until Shasta feels safe, and since the first thing she said was 'I want my Daddy', she obviously feels very safe with him. I think it would really help her to have her daddy with her full time, with no worries for him about money. (He sure needs some time without stress himself, and has a lot of healing to do.)

I hope to god that Shasta can get through this. The details sound like a horrible horror movie, and it has me terribly upset to think about that beautiful little girl with her sweet smile actually going through all that for almost 2 months, day in and day out. It makes me physically ill.

Take good care of yourselves, everybody, and stay safe.

Hugs to all,
Tired Old Hag

[surf_moon_stars]

originally posted by mysteriew


Many of the gifts and clothes Shasta has received are being given to children at the hospital, to deputies and police officers who carry stuffed animals in their squad cars lest they happen upon a child in need of a toy, to Children's Village and many more agencies.
Thank you mysteriew....

I am glad to see this post, as I am sure thinking about the well being for
her as well.

It is also very nice that in lieu of all the gifts, cards and kind gestures going
out to Shasta, that her dad and familyare also helping other kids.

Hugs and well wishes to Shasta....and to the family.

Thinking of you during this time~

[Beyond Belief]

Fox broadcasted very quickly a comment made by Steve Groene that it would acceptable to him for life in prison for the (SOB, sorry can't give that monster a name), if Shasta didn't have to testify and he (the SOB) would admit to all the murders he commited.It was just a short clip, so I don't know where their going with this...

[lilpony]

I love the idea of a new house for Steve and Shasta. Maybe Oprah will build them one :)

I also think it would be wonderful if they get enough funds so that Steve can be a stay-at-home dad. I'd imagine it will be a very long time until Shasta feels safe, and since the first thing she said was 'I want my Daddy', she obviously feels very safe with him. I think it would really help her to have her daddy with her full time, with no worries for him about money. (He sure needs some time without stress himself, and has a lot of healing to do.)

I hope to god that Shasta can get through this. The details sound like a horrible horror movie, and it has me terribly upset to think about that beautiful little girl with her sweet smile actually going through all that for almost 2 months, day in and day out. It makes me physically ill.

Take good care of yourselves, everybody, and stay safe.

Hugs to all,
Tired Old HagI think Exteme Makeover Home Edition with Ty Pennington, should build Steve and Shasta a brand new home. It would be wonderful, and I can see this happening. All of us should write in to the show, for this to happen!!:)

[JDB]

[QUOTE=lilpony]I think Exteme Makeover Home Edition with Ty Pennington, should build Steve and Shasta a brand new home. It would be wonderful, and I can see this happening. All of us should write in to the show, for this to happen!!:)[/QUOTE

Lilpony I agree 100 precent.Shasta and her Dad had to go through this ordeal. More Shasta as she witness so much more then a little girl should have.But I also want know where can I get the address to send e-mails toso this Predators on kids can stay in prison for the rest of ther lives.
Anyone have them please e-mail me at thecoach2@hotmail.com. I will share with co-workers and such. maybe the more we write it can happen.

[Liz]

A WS member posted about trust funds a couple of days ago; and I mentioned I wasn't aware of any. The very next day I heard at least a couple of them had been set up. These are funds that are managed by an attorney, and no one except for Shasta can touch them. I heard that one is for "medical, dental, psychological and education purposes".

Trust Fund info provided on Spokane news last night:

Shasta Groene Trust Fund
2600 A East Seltice #226
Post Falls, Idaho 83854

Windermere Foundation
c/o Shasta Groene
100 NW Boulevard
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814

Donations can be made in person at:

1 - Windermere - CdA or Post Falls Office
2 - Panhandle Bank in Coeur d'Alene
3 - Horace Mann Insurance Co in Coeur d'Alene

*This information is being provided strictly as a courtesy, for anyone that might be interested.

[jilly]

I love the idea of a new house for Steve and Shasta. Maybe Oprah will build them one :)



Good idea, and speaking of Oprah, where the heck is Hollywood? - the Susan Sarandons et al. Don't hear them speaking out.

I agree with a previous poster in that this family needs the very best of the best psychologists to deal with this and not some mickey mouse thereapist appointed by the government.

I mean if 2 creeps can casually hand over $21,000 to a convicted molester, I would think there's ample funding out there to give this poor family a new life with hope.

[Dara]

Good idea, and speaking of Oprah, where the heck is Hollywood? - the Susan Sarandons et al. Don't hear them speaking out.

I agree with a previous poster in that this family needs the very best of the best psychologists to deal with this and not some mickey mouse thereapist appointed by the government.

I mean if 2 creeps can casually hand over $21,000 to a convicted molester, I would think there's ample funding out there to give this poor family a new life with hope.
The organization "Throw Away the Key" wants Crary, Wacksman, and Judge Schroeder to pony up. I really love the way the president expresses himself here (http://releases.usnewswire.com/GetRelease.asp?id=50317):

"This wealthy pediatrician and wealthy businessman should show the same compassion for Shasta Groene as their intense and peculiar passion for a convicted, violent sexual sadist," said Michael Paranzino, president of Throw Away The Key. "If a child molester merits $15,000, surely Mr. Crary can come up with $150,000 for a molested girl and her now-deceased family. As for the pediatrician, Dr. Wacksman, I'll leave it to the medical community whether a pediatrician should be financing a convicted child molester, but certainly he, too, should help Shasta with medical, education and burial expenses. Finally, Minnesota District Judge Thomas Schroeder, who set Duncan's bail at just $15,000, should contribute some of his annual $115,000 salary to this fund for Shasta. It's time for the wealthy adults who make tragedies like this possible to help out the working class children who bear the consequences for rich men's mistakes."

[kk's mom]

Good idea, and speaking of Oprah, where the heck is Hollywood? - the Susan Sarandons et al. Don't hear them speaking out.

I agree with a previous poster in that this family needs the very best of the best psychologists to deal with this and not some mickey mouse thereapist appointed by the government.

I mean if 2 creeps can casually hand over $21,000 to a convicted molester, I would think there's ample funding out there to give this poor family a new life with hope.

My thoughts too - where is Hollywood? You know, I'm all for the good causes these actors sponsor or get involved with - most of which is in another country, but we've got alot going on in our country too, like the recent abductions and murders of innocent children by sex offenders.

I'd like to see some of them get inolved in this plight. The only person in the entertainment industry that I know of (I'm sure there are others - I just can't think of any) is Ricky Martin (Ricky Mountain Foundation). I know he is big in trying to stop the trafficking of children to predators in other countries. I admire him for doing that. I've written Oprah numerous times and have asked her to have a show on this topic but I've never seen one.

I wish they do something here.

[Cowgirl]

The organization "Throw Away the Key" wants Crary, Wacksman, and Judge Schroeder to pony up. I really love the way the president expresses himself here (http://releases.usnewswire.com/GetRelease.asp?id=50317):Hi Dara,

I got a referral to "Throw Away the Key" from thesmokinggun.com and I love what they are doing and saying.

I think it doesn't take a genius to figure out what the doughy Joe Crary and creepy doctor saw in this POS. The doctor's apparent attraction was so strong that after knowing this slimeball a matter of a couple months he went to bat for him in front of a parole revocation board, offering not just to vouch for the a hole, but to take him into his home, support him financially, and risk the wellbeing of his victim age children, saying he had no worries about the slime being around his family and his wife agreed as well.

Now, I don't know about you, but I think Wacksman must be pretty hot for slime boy for him to risk EVERYTHING for the POS, and the allegations that perhaps the POS was blackmailing him are nonsense. That might have come later, but no one has to do a plea before a parole revocation board under a blackmail threat! The punk was in jail. Guys in jail have no leverage!

Time for the good doctor and doughboy Crary to pony up some money. I bet it isn't much fun for either of them these days, around their friends, neighbors, and families. The doctor probably has to prescribe himself some sleeping pills just to get a minute of sleep if he has any conscience.

[jilly]

The organization "Throw Away the Key" wants Crary, Wacksman, and Judge Schroeder to pony up. I really love the way the president expresses himself here (http://releases.usnewswire.com/GetRelease.asp?id=50317):

Thanks Dara, what a great article. I think he should have thrown in the previous prosecutor as well.

Still, I'd like to see someone from Hollywood take up the cause on behalf of America's children.

[Dara]

If someone gives the Groenes a new home, I hope it's not done in front of the TV cameras, unless they want it that way. I hope that unless the Groenes specifically want to be in the public eye, little Shasta is allowed to lead as normal a life as possible, with as much anonymity as possible. And given the freaks out there, I wouldn't think it's a great idea for the outside of her house to be shown on national TV.

[Dara]

Thanks Dara, what a great article. I think he should have thrown in the previous prosecutor as well.

Still, I'd like to see someone from Hollywood take up the cause on behalf of America's children.
I'm racking my brain to try to think of any celebs who have championed this particular cause (there may be one or more; I just can't think). Sadly, the names who come to mind aren't celebs, but rather regular folks who got their "fame" from losing children. I know a lot of celebs help various children's causes, but it could do so much if one superstar would take on this specific issue (though I'd love to believe that public outrage and action will be enough after what happened to Duncan's victims). Oprah sounds like a good idea, but apparently she's not interested and she does so much good I won't complain.

A superstar can do a LOT when they get involved, really involved, with one cause. Look at Danny Thomas, Paul Newman, Lance Armstrong (all cancer or illness, but that's what I tend to know about), Bob Geldof, etc. So, who sounds like a likely candidate? What celebrity has the clout and possible inclination to step up?

[Shortcake21]

If someone gives the Groenes a new home, I hope it's not done in front of the TV cameras, unless they want it that way. I hope that unless the Groenes specifically want to be in the public eye, little Shasta is allowed to lead as normal a life as possible, with as much anonymity as possible. And given the freaks out there, I wouldn't think it's a great idea for the outside of her house to be shown on national TV.
I agree.

[Cowgirl]

Thanks Dara, what a great article. I think he should have thrown in the previous prosecutor as well.

Still, I'd like to see someone from Hollywood take up the cause on behalf of America's children.Most of the Hollywood types, Oprah included, only get generous in front of a camera. The last thing the Groenes need is more publicity. There are philanthropists who do things quietly and we have no way of knowing what has been sent to the bank to help them.

Susan Sarandon, by the way, is very anti-death penalty, so I would rather she just keep her mouth shut. Many here have said they think death is too easy for him and that he should be in a cage, deprived of all privileges. There is no such thing. Even when they start out their incarceration that way, if they play good boy for a while, all the misery goes away. This little punk would be finding a way to adapt and suck and charm his way with all the vulnerable weak people he can find along the way. In no time he would be someone's punk working in an office on computers and finding a way to enjoy his perverted self. The only answer for Duncan is death.

[Cowgirl]

I think Exteme Makeover Home Edition with Ty Pennington, should build Steve and Shasta a brand new home. It would be wonderful, and I can see this happening. All of us should write in to the show, for this to happen!!:)You think it is a good idea to have ABC showing the Groenes all over the country on national TV? STOP! It is a terrible idea. Leave it to the generous people who don't need a pat on the back, publicity, or a Guinness Book mention in order to be generous. Your heart is in the right place, but they don't need more media attention.

[dragonfly]

Liz and Mysterview if you haven't taken the time to read the post in the first thread "Media Only" that I posted earlier today regarding this case and the parole board history you might learn some new and interesting things. I bring this to your attention since you are discussing this subject and I value your opinions.

[Cowgirl]

Liz and Mysterview if you haven't taken the time to read the post in the first thread "Media Only" that I posted earlier today regarding this case and the parole board history you might learn some new and interesting things. I bring this to your attention since you are discussing this subject and I value your opinions.I read and copied them all, dragonfly, and there is a lot of very interesting stuff, particularly in the collective parole board interviews and results one, second from the last. That is the first place I read that he actually blames his sister for some incestuous relationship (which I choose not to believe) and that when his parole revocation came, it was as a result of his absconding to Kansas City, where he stayed with a step-sister. I know this is off topic for this thread, so I will start another one about those documents.

[kk's mom]

I'm racking my brain to try to think of any celebs who have championed this particular cause (there may be one or more; I just can't think). Sadly, the names who come to mind aren't celebs, but rather regular folks who got their "fame" from losing children. I know a lot of celebs help various children's causes, but it could do so much if one superstar would take on this specific issue (though I'd love to believe that public outrage and action will be enough after what happened to Duncan's victims). Oprah sounds like a good idea, but apparently she's not interested and she does so much good I won't complain.

A superstar can do a LOT when they get involved, really involved, with one cause. Look at Danny Thomas, Paul Newman, Lance Armstrong (all cancer or illness, but that's what I tend to know about), Bob Geldof, etc. So, who sounds like a likely candidate? What celebrity has the clout and possible inclination to step up?

I know that Wynona Ryder stepped up to the plate when Polly Klaas went missing. She donated her own money to the search fund and even helped in the search efforts. I think it hit more close to home with her because she grew up in the same town where the Klaas's lived.

Who would I like to from Hollywood spearhead this type of cause? Maybe someone like Meryl Streep, Tommy Lee Jones, Alan Jackson. I don't think it will ever happen though and that's so sad because these are America's children. Someone for once and for all needs to take a stand and stop this horrible epidemic. No one seems to be listening and it's really getting on my nerves.

[jilly]

Most of the Hollywood types, Oprah included, only get generous in front of a camera. The last thing the Groenes need is more publicity. There are philanthropists who do things quietly and we have no way of knowing what has been sent to the bank to help them.

Susan Sarandon, by the way, is very anti-death penalty, so I would rather she just keep her mouth shut. Many here have said they think death is too easy for him and that he should be in a cage, deprived of all privileges. There is no such thing. Even when they start out their incarceration that way, if they play good boy for a while, all the misery goes away. This little punk would be finding a way to adapt and suck and charm his way with all the vulnerable weak people he can find along the way. In no time he would be someone's punk working in an office on computers and finding a way to enjoy his perverted self. The only answer for Duncan is death.

Yeah, you're right, "the last thing the Groenes need is more publicity" besides Oprah is pretty busy right now putting a show together about Hermes and racial discrimination.:bang:

I know Susan Sarandon is anti-death and I didn't word my post very clearly - point is you don't hear a peep from these celebs when something like this happens and we should. They're championing every other cause including cruelty against animals so why can't one single celeb stand up and say - you molest one child, you go to jail for the rest of your life.

Getting back to Oprah, I would have thought that she'd take more of an interest because she herself was molested.

[Cowgirl]

Yeah, you're right, "the last thing the Groenes need is more publicity" besides Oprah is pretty busy right now putting a show together about Hermes and racial discrimination.:bang:

I know Susan Sarandon is anti-death and I didn't word my post very clearly - point is you don't hear a peep from these celebs when something like this happens and we should. They're championing every other cause including cruelty against animals so why can't one single celeb stand up and say - you molest one child, you go to jail for the rest of your life.

Getting back to Oprah, I would have thought that she'd take more of an interest because she herself was molested.Yes, I know she was. Maybe she, as a victim herself, realizes that they don't need her kind of public help? Maybe she, or any of the others we are speaking of, do some things anonymously? Let's hope they do, and then we can think better of them!

[Cowgirl]

I know that Wynona Ryder stepped up to the plate when Polly Klaas went missing. She donated her own money to the search fund and even helped in the search efforts. I think it hit more close to home with her because she grew up in the same town where the Klaas's lived.

Who would I like to from Hollywood spearhead this type of cause? Maybe someone like Meryl Streep, Tommy Lee Jones, Alan Jackson. I don't think it will ever happen though and that's so sad because these are America's children. Someone for once and for all needs to take a stand and stop this horrible epidemic. No one seems to be listening and it's really getting on my nerves.It really isn't something that just one person has the power to do. For instance, in this case, the guy's immediate release was caused by a low bail being set and yet, even if he had to get a bondsman and take a little time with it, he had access to enough cash with his trick Crary to get out even if the bond had been ten times as much. I heard some people on Dan Abrams show tonight talking about this and the bottom line was, bond is not set to keep dangerous people in prison, it is set to guarantee someone comes to court. And they already changed their laws there so that someone can no longer write a check to be covered later...that helps a little. But that is just this case. Every case seems to have a loophole. Couey benefited from not being tightly monitored. Most the other pigs out there have already been to prison. How are we going to get every state to lock them up from day one, first offense, forever? Even if they promise to do it?

Don't get me wrong, I hope that Throw Away The Key group is successful, but it is not a matter of one person "doing something" to change things. It is a whole lot of loopholes that have to be closed.

[Liz]

Thanks, D.



Obviously some people can't take a hint, even when it hits 'em between the eyes

[kline]

The Groene's are far better off without the Hollywood contigent.They would be too busy validating Duncan's victim stance as amisunderstood victim of the system.
And blithering over the sensitivity and sense of alienation in his Blog posts.
'The poor damaged poet....persecuted and driven to theses desperate acts by society....now at the center of a throng of racist Idaho rednecks demanding lynch mob justice...Bladablahdablah,ad nauseum...you get the picture.
Sean Penn and Susan Sarandon would fall in love with this guy.
Duncan's benefactors need to give real accounting of themselves.
I certainly hope they are under close scrutiny by law enforcement.
And yeah it is frustrating that anything approaching Justice in this case is beyond the reach of our legal system.
And yes as long as he is alive in the system he will find a way to manipualte his enviroment and find support from the misguided and the foolish.
This is probably the most evil and savage crime I can recall in recent memory.
As more revelations surface about what the Groene children endured in Montana
(and I dont think we yet realise the half of it.) its going to open the wound on all of our hearts over and over again.

[Beyond Belief]

I have had a very extensive conversation with my children and grandchildren about how brave Shasta Groene is. We all agree that from now on when we are feeling low, discouraged, frustrated, or frightened our word to carry on, encourage ourselves, or help us get through will be word "Shasta". She will be with us forever.
When life gets tough, just think "Shasta".

[Liz]

I have had a very extensive conversation with my children and grandchildren about how brave Shasta Groene is. We all agree that from now on when we are feeling low, discouraged, frustrated, or frightened our word to carry on, encourage ourselves, or help us get through will be word "Shasta". She will be with us forever.
When life gets tough, just think "Shasta".


I love it! What a beautiful sentiment, BB!

[Beyond Belief]

I love it! What a beautiful sentiment, BB!
I can hardly say her name without tears coming to my eyes. I ran into a girl from Seattle, on vacation here in Florida, we discussed that idea. I really liked the idea too. I heard my grandson trying to over come his fear to get in the ocean, saying very quietly to himself, 'shasta, shasta, shasta', of course he doesn't know too much about her, just that she is a very brave little girl.

[Floh]

Surviving Marc Dutroux

A remarkable story of a girl who was returned to her life surviving 80 days with a monster.

clearly showing paedophile monsters are everywhere, i feel it is a story of hope for Shasta's future. i have the greatest of hope Shasta will come shining through too:

Sabine Dardenne endured 80 days of abuse, filth, and mortal agony, 80 days smelling the foul breath of this man she calls "the pig," and who told her: "You are my new wife." This man who forced her to spend nights in his double bed, who tied her foot to his foot, who didn't care about her pain, and who told her not to make such a fuss, that it just happens to hurt a little the first time.

At the time, she couldn't know that at least four other girls hadn't survived their encounters with Dutroux. Their names were An, Eefje, Julie and Melissa. Sabine was freed on August 15, 1996, together with Laetitia, with whom she had shared her captivity for six days. And then what happened? How does one live as someone who survived?


More on survivor Sabine Dardenne: http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/spiegel/0,1518,327377,00.html

More on the entire case of Marc Dutroux: http://www.crimelibrary.com/serial_killers/predators/dutroux/evil_1.html?sect=2

IMO, there was/is a paedophile ring which has been covered up in Europe.

There are still people who believe the whole thing was just a big conspiracy. For Sabine Dardenne, the perpetrator was a repulsive excuse for a human being, saying that "everything else doesn't fit to what I experienced." But there are parents of victims for whom the crime was too enormous to have been committed by a single, miserable person. There are people who believe that she was drugged for 80 days and didn't notice who, other than Dutroux, had access to her body. Now they can read all about it: Look, everyone, I still remember everything. Look, I'm absolutely clear about the whole thing.

(the above paragraph from this link: http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/spiegel/0,1518,327377-2,00.html )

[BirdieBoo]

I love that idea, and I think they were making them work for a while. Then prison advocates started complaining about it- against the prisoners rights you know- slavery, forced labor, cruel and unusual and all of that bull. A couple of prisons still have them working on public works (on a volunteer basis) but for the most part, most of the prisons backed off of that. I don't think there was ever a time when the criminals have ever given their earnings to the victims. I think it is a good idea. Some parents may get offended, as money would not replace their murdered child, but they could always give the money to a victims program if they didn't want the money.
I am really behind on this thread, but as far as I know, criminals ARE sometimes required to pay $$$ restitution to their victims, although in this case and many others, there's not enough money in the world to make up for what happened.

I myself have received restitution payments in the state of Idaho, the crime against me was a property crime, though and the perpetrator of the crime learned a lesson and was rehabilitated, happily.

[Cowgirl]

I am really behind on this thread, but as far as I know, criminals ARE sometimes required to pay $$$ restitution to their victims, although in this case and many others, there's not enough money in the world to make up for what happened.

I myself have received restitution payments in the state of Idaho, the crime against me was a property crime, though and the perpetrator of the crime learned a lesson and was rehabilitated, happily.I used to work in the County Clerk's office in Fort Worth, Texas a million years ago and had a friend who worked for the District Clerk collecting fines and such. She got a job change to collecting restitution and did not like it. She said that it was all criminals ordered to pay restitution for their crimes and she didn't like dealing with them. It had earlier been the practice that restitution would be paid directly to the person harmed but I can see why they would not want to get money or have any connection at all with the perp, so they set it up to pay it through the court. I believe now it is done through a victim's compensation fund, so that the money someone pays as a fine goes into the fund and the victims get paid out of the fund, but they have no contact and if the victim is eligible for funds, they get them, regardless of whether the defendant has come up with the money or not.

[Cowgirl]

I posted this article in the media links but just in case those concerned about the funds collected for Shasta missed the article there:

Thousands donated to Shasta funds

http://www.spokesmanreview.com/idaho/story.asp?ID=80947

A lawyer and accountant will administer the trust fund.

"This will go for the benefit of Shasta and Shasta only," Lambert said. The funds can be used to help with medical and dental expenses and to pay for counseling or education expenses, he said.

The trust fund is one of several accounts set up to benefit Shasta.

Insurance agent Camy Popiel helped Shasta's teacher and principal from Fernan Elementary start the Shasta Groene Fund. Only the teacher, principal and the lawyer setting up the trust will have the ability to release funds from the account, intended to pay for the "extras" for Shasta, from summer camp to dance lessons.

"The thing we found in the community is people were concerned that maybe someone else would have access to the money," Popiel said. "We wanted this trust specifically for Shasta."

The post office box for the Shasta Groene Trust opened last Thursday and Popiel said the donations have been pouring in from all across the country, as well as close to home.

[Peabody]

The Name of the Trust Fund for Shasta and address to mail donations for the Trust which will be administered by a teacher, an attorney and an accountant for dental, medical and education expenses is:

•Donations to the trust that was started by Men In Business at Panhandle State Bank can be mailed to the Windermere Foundation or dropped off at 1000 Northwest Blvd., Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814. Checks should be made payable to WRE Windermere Foundation/Shasta.

For more information regarding the Trust entitled Windermere Foundation/Shasta and other Funds for Shasta see http://www.spokesmanreview.com/idaho/story.asp?ID=80947

[Floh]

I posted this article in the media links but just in case those concerned about the funds collected for Shasta missed the article there:

Thousands donated to Shasta funds

http://www.spokesmanreview.com/idaho/story.asp?ID=80947

A lawyer and accountant will administer the trust fund.

"This will go for the benefit of Shasta and Shasta only," Lambert said. The funds can be used to help with medical and dental expenses and to pay for counseling or education expenses, he said.

The trust fund is one of several accounts set up to benefit Shasta.

Insurance agent Camy Popiel helped Shasta's teacher and principal from Fernan Elementary start the Shasta Groene Fund. Only the teacher, principal and the lawyer setting up the trust will have the ability to release funds from the account, intended to pay for the "extras" for Shasta, from summer camp to dance lessons.

"The thing we found in the community is people were concerned that maybe someone else would have access to the money," Popiel said. "We wanted this trust specifically for Shasta."

The post office box for the Shasta Groene Trust opened last Thursday and Popiel said the donations have been pouring in from all across the country, as well as close to home.


This should stop those who think funds may be misused in their tracks!

thanks for posting the information. :)

[dannyodie]

it makes me feel good inside that people are donating money to help with expenses. how wonderful that people from across the nation has responded to this family and especially to this beautiful child. god bless all of you.

[Shortcake21]

I posted this article in the media links but just in case those concerned about the funds collected for Shasta missed the article there:

Thousands donated to Shasta funds

http://www.spokesmanreview.com/idaho/story.asp?ID=80947

A lawyer and accountant will administer the trust fund.

"This will go for the benefit of Shasta and Shasta only," Lambert said. The funds can be used to help with medical and dental expenses and to pay for counseling or education expenses, he said.

The trust fund is one of several accounts set up to benefit Shasta.

Insurance agent Camy Popiel helped Shasta's teacher and principal from Fernan Elementary start the Shasta Groene Fund. Only the teacher, principal and the lawyer setting up the trust will have the ability to release funds from the account, intended to pay for the "extras" for Shasta, from summer camp to dance lessons.

"The thing we found in the community is people were concerned that maybe someone else would have access to the money," Popiel said. "We wanted this trust specifically for Shasta."

The post office box for the Shasta Groene Trust opened last Thursday and Popiel said the donations have been pouring in from all across the country, as well as close to home.

Thanks for posting this information Cowgirl.

[Liz]

It was announced several days ago on Spokane news that Shasta will never have to worry about her dental care. A local Coeur d'Alene Liberty Lake dental office has graciously opted to cover all her dental expenses for the rest of her life.

Also, her college education will be completely paid for IF she desires to go to North Idaho College.

I must say it warms the cockles of my heart to hear of the outpouring of support for this little miracle girl.

:)

ETA: from 7/14 CdA Press: A dental office and an orthodontist in Liberty Lake both want to donate their services and time to Shasta's dental health for the rest of her life.

[concernedperson]

It was announced several days ago on Spokane news that Shasta will never have to worry about her dental care. A local Coeur d'Alene dental office has graciously opted to cover all her dental expenses for the rest of her life.

Also, her college education will be completely paid for IF she desires to go to North Idaho College.

I must say it warms the cockles of my heart to hear of the outpouring of support for this little miracle girl.

:)

Oh goodness, the tears are flowing now. She really is a little miracle girl. She is an inspiration for the thousands that are molested. Give her voice and let heal and let imprison the perps. What an inspiration for survival.

[CaliKid]

Bless Shasta, God, for she has lost so much!

[Berksleuth]

Hearing this brings joy to my heart! The last thing this child needs is to grow up worrying about these type of financial issues. She has already paid.

[Liz]

From the media links thread, with thanks to Dragonfly for the link.

Bikers rally around Shasta
Event raises money for survivor's care

http://www.spokesmanreview.com/sections/groene/story.asp?ID=80636


There are three major bank accounts set up to help Shasta:

• The one supported Sunday was created at Panhandle State Bank in Idaho by the Windermere Foundation, care of Shasta Groene, 1000 Northwest Blvd., Suite 200, Coeur d'Alene, ID, 83814.

• The second fund, created by friends of Steve Groene, is the Dylan and Shasta Groene Fund at Inland Northwest Bank.

• A third fund has been created at U.S. Bank's Coeur d'Alene branches. Donations are expected to pay for Shasta's short- and long-term care and potentially her college education.


Bless the kind-hearted folks, who cared enough to establish these accounts! Good people! :clap:

[Vet4Bush]

Group wants Wacksman, Crary to establish fund for Shasta.

http://press.arrivenet.com/pol/article.php/668423.html

[Liz]

Group wants Wacksman, Crary to establish fund for Shasta.

http://press.arrivenet.com/pol/article.php/668423.html


Thanks for the link, Vet! I absolutely love this idea and support it wholeheartedly!

[Liz]

Additional snippets (to the ones I already posted in the "Media links" and "Protect the Innocents" threads) from 8/14/05 CdA Press:

Shasta appears at fundraiser

http://www.cdapress.com/articles/2005/08/14/news/news02.txt


POST FALLS -- "It's just the right thing to do," said Dilley, a member of the newly formed Northwest Men in Business networking group, who helped coordinate the event. "I just felt like we needed to help her -- life is too short to let bad people do bad things to children and not try and change things."

"Everyone found the things we needed and it all came together," he said. Midge Smock, co-owner of Windermere Realty and treasurer of the local Windermere Foundation, said it's been a pleasure helping raise money for Shasta.

"This is just awesome." Smock said the foundation had collected about $60,000 before this weekend's event.

An event organizer said Shasta and her father, Steve, made a brief appearance at the event for about 10 to 15 minutes. Shasta apparently received a goody bag, checked out the vendors and jumped in the balloon tent.

"She's getting back to being a little girl," LaPrelle said.

Although the fund-raiser may be over, people can still donate money to the trust fund. For information visit www.nwmib.org

============================

I think it's terrific that Steve was able to take Shasta out to this event that was held in her honor. I'm ecstatic to read and hear that through people's eyes that know her, Shasta appears to be
making quite the recovery; with a truly incredible resilience regarding her return to a somewhat normal life.

May God bless her and keep her on a path to a miraculously healing recovery!

[concernedperson]

Additional snippets (to the ones I already posted in the "Media links" and "Protect the Innocents" threads) from 8/14/05 CdA Press:

Shasta appears at fundraiser

http://www.cdapress.com/articles/2005/08/14/news/news02.txt


POST FALLS -- "It's just the right thing to do," said Dilley, a member of the newly formed Northwest Men in Business networking group, who helped coordinate the event. "I just felt like we needed to help her -- life is too short to let bad people do bad things to children and not try and change things."

"Everyone found the things we needed and it all came together," he said. Midge Smock, co-owner of Windermere Realty and treasurer of the local Windermere Foundation, said it's been a pleasure helping raise money for Shasta.

"This is just awesome." Smock said the foundation had collected about $60,000 before this weekend's event.

An event organizer said Shasta and her father, Steve, made a brief appearance at the event for about 10 to 15 minutes. Shasta apparently received a goody bag, checked out the vendors and jumped in the balloon tent.

"She's getting back to being a little girl," LaPrelle said.

Although the fund-raiser may be over, people can still donate money to the trust fund. For information visit www.nwmib.org

============================

I think it's terrific that Steve was able to take Shasta out to this event that was held in her honor. I'm ecstatic to read and hear that through people's eyes that know her, Shasta appears to be
making quite the recovery; with a truly incredible resilience regarding her return to a somewhat normal life.

May God bless her and keep her on a path to a miraculously healing recovery!

Amen, and amen again. Bless her everyday throughout the rest of her life.

[20togo]

Is it ever in the child-victim's best interest to change their name &

start over in a new city?

[Gracelin]

Is it ever in the child-victim's best interest to change their name &

start over in a new city?That is an interesting question..
It would depend on the family ..
I think Shasta will stay who she is, And will be stronger for it.
Steve dosen't strike me as a pack the bags and leave town kind of guy..

[tired.old.hag]

Is it ever in the child-victim's best interest to change their name &

start over in a new city?
Psychologists say children do better after traumas if their life goes back to how it was before the trauma.

The things I wonder about are the media, will kids at school talk or ask her questions, will adults talk in her hearing or ask her hearing, etc.

It's been reported she wants to go back to her same school, which I think is a good sign. That she feels she will be safe there, and wants to do something she used to do.

God knows, Steve has some very difficult decisions and issues. I just don't know if I'd leave or stay. Or just wallow in indecision and anxiety as I usually do lol.

[Cowgirl]

Psychologists say children do better after traumas if their life goes back to how it was before the trauma.

The things I wonder about are the media, will kids at school talk or ask her questions, will adults talk in her hearing or ask her hearing, etc.

It's been reported she wants to go back to her same school, which I think is a good sign. That she feels she will be safe there, and wants to do something she used to do.

God knows, Steve has some very difficult decisions and issues. I just don't know if I'd leave or stay. Or just wallow in indecision and anxiety as I usually do lol.While I have a sense of relief that Shasta seems to be adjusting so well, I just wonder what the future holds for her. I don't know how she can just get over it. I fear some delayed reactions. I wish they could just wipe her memory banks clear as they could a computer hard drive, but the human mind doesn't work that way. It sickens me that she could have to have a lifetime of therapy because of him. One of BTK's escaped victims is that way--he saw BTK pulling a bag and rope over his mother's head and it has ruined his life. He has had drug and alcohol and adjustment problems and guilt his whole life, poor guy. Poor little Shasta. There really should be more punishment than just a shot for this creep.

[Becba]

While I have a sense of relief that Shasta seems to be adjusting so well, I just wonder what the future holds for her. I don't know how she can just get over it. I fear some delayed reactions. I wish they could just wipe her memory banks clear as they could a computer hard drive, but the human mind doesn't work that way. It sickens me that she could have to have a lifetime of therapy because of him. One of BTK's escaped victims is that way--he saw BTK pulling a bag and rope over his mother's head and it has ruined his life. He has had drug and alcohol and adjustment problems and guilt his whole life, poor guy. Poor little Shasta. There really should be more punishment than just a shot for this creep.
A few of BTK's victims relatives turned out to have drug or anger problems.
I do worry about Shasta's future. Right now she appears to be resiliant.
I wish more time would pass between now and the trial, as confronting an abuser has great healing powers yet she has to be at that point to do it. IMO The horror she has went thru will mean several years before she gets to that point.

[Openmind]

[QUOTE=tired.old.hag]Psychologists say children do better after traumas if their life goes back to how it was before the trauma.

QUOTE]

Sadly, the life Shasta had before all this is gone. Her home, mother, step father to be and brother are all gone. And even harder considering how close Dylan and Shasta were reported to have been and all they endured together in captivity, Dylan may be the biggest lose. She is in a different home and adjusting to a new family structure. Her school is the one constant she has that is not going to be different from before. I'd let her go back there. It's not like she is going to start new and unknown anywhere else.

[Liz]

A few of BTK's victims relatives turned out to have drug or anger problems.
I do worry about Shasta's future. Right now she appears to be resiliant.
I wish more time would pass between now and the trial, as confronting an abuser has great healing powers yet she has to be at that point to do it. IMO The horror she has went thru will mean several years before she gets to that point.


Here I was thinking that the sooner the trial is, the better, for Shasta's sake.

I have no experience, in that area (thankfully), but I was thinking first of all it's fresher in her mind. (I know, that's horrific!) Also, thinking the sooner the trial is over, the sooner she can hopefully begin to forget some of the horrific details (IF that ever happens in these type cases), and move forward and past them.

That was my (non-expertise) thinking.

I do pray she forgets some of the horrific details, and memories, at some point down the road!

[tired.old.hag]

While I have a sense of relief that Shasta seems to be adjusting so well, I just wonder what the future holds for her. I don't know how she can just get over it. I fear some delayed reactions. I wish they could just wipe her memory banks clear as they could a computer hard drive, but the human mind doesn't work that way. It sickens me that she could have to have a lifetime of therapy because of him. One of BTK's escaped victims is that way--he saw BTK pulling a bag and rope over his mother's head and it has ruined his life. He has had drug and alcohol and adjustment problems and guilt his whole life, poor guy. Poor little Shasta. There really should be more punishment than just a shot for this creep.
Oh I know, Cowgirl. I don't think she will get over it. It's just way too much, even with the best therapy and support. I'm afraid she's going to have a very troubled life, and a lot of emotional pain and confusion. I just hope there's support there, and that she will turn to it, when the bad times come. My heart just bleeds for her.

[tired.old.hag]

Sadly, the life Shasta had before all this is gone. Her home, mother, step father to be and brother are all gone. And even harder considering how close Dylan and Shasta were reported to have been and all they endured together in captivity, Dylan may be the biggest lose. She is in a different home and adjusting to a new family structure. Her school is the one constant she has that is not going to be different from before. I'd let her go back there. It's not like she is going to start new and unknown anywhere else.
She has her grandmother and aunt and older brothers too, but yes, she lost every single person she lived with and was closest too. It's just unimaginable. Abducted and tortured for 7 weeks, then she comes back and no mother to hold her and comfort her. I thank god she does still have Steve. He loves that little girl so much, and I know he will protect her and watch her like a hawk.

[Liz]

Today is three months to the day that Shasta was rescued from the devil himself; and from the hell he was holding her in.

I heard this song a couple of weeks ago, and all I could think about while Bonnie Raitt was singing it was Shasta. I pray through some miracle, that this song does apply to Shasta.

I believe in miracles. The fact that Shasta is alive today is a miracle!

May Shasta be blessed with a miraculous life, filled with kindness, surrounded by love and blessed with self-acceptance!

Dedicated to Shasta:

I Will Not Be Broken - Bonnie Raitt

That was then and this is now
Found my way back here somehow.
Knew you'd have to let me go
I told you once, I told you so

take me down, you can hold me
but you can't hold what's within
roll me 'round, push me to the limit
maybe I may bend

but I know where I'm not going
I will not be broken
I will not be broken

I will not be someone other than who I am
I will fight to make my stand
'cause what is living if I can't live free
what is freedom if I can't be me

take me down, you can hold me
but you can't hold what's within
roll me 'round push, me to the limit
maybe I may bend

but I know where I'm not going
I will not be broken
I will not be broken

I won't let you near it
I will let my spirit fly
Fly
High

Oh take me down
take me down,
you can hold me
but you can't hold what's within

roll me 'round,
push me to the limit
maybe I may bend
but we both know
where I'm not going

I will not be broken
I will not be broken
I will not be broken

* * * * * * * * *

If desired, you can listen to a sample of this song by clicking here (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0009ZE9K8/002-4625939-0825657?v=glance) and scroll down to 'listen to samples'.

[Openmind]

Today is three months to the day that Shasta was rescued from the devil himself; and from the hell he was holding her in.

I heard this song a couple of weeks ago, and all I could think about while Bonnie Raitt was singing it was Shasta. I pray through some miracle, that this song does apply to Shasta.

I believe in miracles. The fact that Shasta is alive today is a miracle!

May Shasta be blessed with a miraculous life, filled with kindness, surrounded by love and blessed with self-acceptance!


Beautiful words for an amazing child. I hope Shasta and everyone else does not expect this little girl to be any more than just a little girl. Her living is miracle enough, and if she wants to live a life of quiet anonymity, I hope the public will honor that wish. She should not have to live a life constantly watched and analyzed for signs of stress or feel that she is supposed to live a life filled with known achievements. I hope she has control of her life and the respect of others to live it the way she wishes. May she have peace, safety, and love.

[tired.old.hag]

That's a beautiful song, Liz. Thank you for posting it.

Sorry to cross post, but this is relevant to Shasta's future:

http://websleuths.com/forums/showpost.php?p=829853&postcount=53

[Becba]

That's a beautiful song, Liz. Thank you for posting it.

Sorry to cross post, but this is relevant to Shasta's future:

http://websleuths.com/forums/showpost.php?p=829853&postcount=53
Very Informative post. Thank you for a personal view.
Not being a psychologist and just going by personal knowledge and what I read, Shasta likely will have post traumatic syndrome and will be on the edge of having 2 paths in life. One will be a caring and sympathetic person, likely strong.
The other maybe a person that has been so exposed to inhumane treatment that they themselves become angry and desire to inflict pain on others.
The latter is similar to the case of the Stayner brothers. One was tortured for years and the other became a serial killer. He said he fantasized all the time about the torture his brother may have been going thru and turned his anger and fantasies into killing.
But the murderous brother did not have counciling or have anyone to hear his fears. Shasta does. And she has family that are aware of her pain that can help her thru it. Most violent people are that way because they never had sympathy or anyone to turn to. Their abuse was ignored or abetted.
Shasta is young and her family is going to protect her from having any photos taken. By the time she is 18, hopefully the world will no longer recognise her so that she may live as normal as possible. She can move on and not be pegged as the victim of this horrendous crime.
When she is an adult she may choose to help others. She can write about her struggle without getting too personal or exposing her identity and make a profit. She can become an active spokesperson against crime. Become an attorney or go into the field of LE.
As long as she gets the right help she can become whatever she wants.

[Liz]

That's a beautiful song, Liz. Thank you for posting it.

Sorry to cross post, but this is relevant to Shasta's future:

http://websleuths.com/forums/showpost.php?p=829853&postcount=53


tired.old.hag,

My heart and prayers go out to you. I'm sorry you were made to suffer such a painful and life altering experience. It's heartbreaking to read! And, it's difficult to comprehend how human beings can be so cruel to another human being.

I hope you're able to find some happiness and peace! :blowkiss:

Hugs to you!

[Liz]

Beautiful words for an amazing child. I hope Shasta and everyone else does not expect this little girl to be any more than just a little girl. Her living is miracle enough, and if she wants to live a life of quiet anonymity, I hope the public will honor that wish. She should not have to live a life constantly watched and analyzed for signs of stress or feel that she is supposed to live a life filled with known achievements. I hope she has control of her life and the respect of others to live it the way she wishes. May she have peace, safety, and love.


Thanks, Openmind --- Shasta is an amazing child. She seems to have a very large support system, thankfully; and they seem like a grounded and down to earth family. Fortunately, Brenda is from a large family. I think at least a couple of Brenda's sisters, as well as her mother, seem to be very actively involved in Shasta's life. I don't think anyone will hold her to any great expectations. Hopefully the family has all received a bit of counseling as to handling certain aspects of the most traumatizing elements that occured.

I was amazed when after the first week of school, Steve said that Shasta came home practically insisting that he sign a form in order for her to participate in "Cross Country", I believe it was.
Honestly, I was surprised by that!

I'll continue to pray for Shasta (and her family); and send positive thoughts her way, for a long time to come! She so deserves a good life, from here on out!

[Openmind]

I was amazed when after the first week of school, Steve said that Shasta came home practically insisting that he sign a form in order for her to participate in "Cross Country", I believe it was.
Honestly, I was surprised by that!


But you know, running sounds like a great outlet. Not running from but running toward a goal. It's team oriented but still individually focused. Running will build her confidence, self esteem, and will allow her to focus her mind and energy. Go, Shasta.

[SewingDeb]

Today is three months to the day that Shasta was rescued from the devil himself; and from the hell he was holding her in.

I heard this song a couple of weeks ago, and all I could think about while Bonnie Raitt was singing it was Shasta. I pray through some miracle, that this song does apply to Shasta.

I believe in miracles. The fact that Shasta is alive today is a miracle!

May Shasta be blessed with a miraculous life, filled with kindness, surrounded by love and blessed with self-acceptance!

Dedicated to Shasta:

I Will Not Be Broken - Bonnie Raitt

That was then and this is now
Found my way back here somehow.
Knew you'd have to let me go
I told you once, I told you so

take me down, you can hold me
but you can't hold what's within
roll me 'round, push me to the limit
maybe I may bend

but I know where I'm not going
I will not be broken
I will not be broken

I will not be someone other than who I am
I will fight to make my stand
'cause what is living if I can't live free
what is freedom if I can't be me

take me down, you can hold me
but you can't hold what's within
roll me 'round push, me to the limit
maybe I may bend

but I know where I'm not going
I will not be broken
I will not be broken

I won't let you near it
I will let my spirit fly
Fly
High

Oh take me down
take me down,
you can hold me
but you can't hold what's within

roll me 'round,
push me to the limit
maybe I may bend
but we both know
where I'm not going

I will not be broken
I will not be broken
I will not be broken

* * * * * * * * *

If desired, you can listen to a sample of this song by clicking here (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0009ZE9K8/002-4625939-0825657?v=glance) and scroll down to 'listen to samples'.

Liz, those words sent chills over me. That is the perfect song for Shasta.

[hollyjokers]

But you know, running sounds like a great outlet. Not running from but running toward a goal. It's team oriented but still individually focused. Running will build her confidence, self esteem, and will allow her to focus her mind and energy. Go, Shasta.

I ran track but knew absolutely nothing about cross country until this year when my 7th grade daughter joined her middle school team. It will do for Shasta exactly as you said. I have never seen a sport that creates such unity & support for teammates & opponents alike. Seems like a perfect outlet for her.
Go Shasta!

[Mel1024]

I really pray and hold Shasta up. She is still attending the same school? And cross country running it is great for any child to be involved in activities and sports. Steve has been thru so much and I know he will cherish and do whatever is right for Shasta

[Liz]

But you know, running sounds like a great outlet. Not running from but running toward a goal. It's team oriented but still individually focused. Running will build her confidence, self esteem, and will allow her to focus her mind and energy. Go, Shasta.


Great post, Openmind. I thought it sounded like a great outlet, as well. What surprised me is how Steve made Shasta out to sound 'so into it' .... so insistent that he sign the paperwork.

Sorry for not responding sooner. I've been kind of absent, lately. Or present, but not really here, if that makes any sense.

[Liz]

Liz, those words sent chills over me. That is the perfect song for Shasta.


Chilled me to the core when I saw Bonnie perform the song on Jay Leno a couple weeks ago! I was reluctant to post it, truthfully. Worried some might think I was off my rocker. (Some probably do anyway. ;))

[Liz]

I really pray and hold Shasta up. She is still attending the same school? And cross country running it is great for any child to be involved in activities and sports. Steve has been thru so much and I know he will cherish and do whatever is right for Shasta

Yes Mel, Shasta is still attending Fernan Elementary. Steve does seem to cherish her and he has every reason to! She's a remarkable child!

I don't think I've taken the time to welcome you, but WELCOME! I'm glad you found Websleuths! :)

[Liz]

Yesterday KREM news' Ilana Gold had a short segment on her interview with Shasta's grandmother, Darlene Torres.

Darlene told Ilana that Shasta's doing very well considering what she's been through and that she (Darlene) wasn't surprised that Shasta knew she was in Montana.

Darlene said, "She's is sharp. She's smart as a whip. She's just like her momma. I mean she's everything like her momma. Her momma was the same way. And they taught them a lot, you know, about being out in the woods and stuff like that. Being they done a lot of huckleberry picking and stuff like that. So, yeah, it doesn't surprise me.

She seems to be doing fine. I would think that she's probably holding up a lot better than some of us adults are. She's in school and she skates once in a while. She likes roller skating. We're going to go carve up some pumpkins - her and I.

I can't wait for this trial to be over. I can't wait for him to get the death penalty, if that's what's deserving. I don't wish no bad on anybody, but I just want this over and done."

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

It's comforting to me that through the eyes of Shasta's grandmother, that Shasta seems to be doing well. May her angels continue to watch over her!

[concernedperson]

Yesterday KREM news' Ilana Gold had a short segment on her interview with Shasta's grandmother, Darlene Torres.

Darlene told Ilana that Shasta's doing very well considering what she's been through and that she (Darlene) wasn't surprised that Shasta knew she was in Montana.

Darlene said, "She's is sharp. She's smart as a whip. She's just like her momma. I mean she's everything like her momma. Her momma was the same way. And they taught them a lot, you know, about being out in the woods and stuff like that. Being they done a lot of huckleberry picking and stuff like that. So, yeah, it doesn't surprise me.

She seems to be doing fine. I would think that she's probably holding up a lot better than some of us adults are. She's in school and she skates once in a while. She likes roller skating. We're going to go carve up some pumpkins - her and I.

I can't wait for this trial to be over. I can't wait for him to get the death penalty, if tha's what's deserving. I don't wish no bad on anybody, but I just want this over and done."

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

It's comforting to me that through the eyes of Shasta's grandmother, that Shasta seems to be doing well. May her angels continue to watch over her!

Also, Liz, between our hard prayers something has got to get through. You keep it up and I will too. Please bless this child daily.

[tired.old.hag]

Thank you for posting that, Liz. It's so good to here that Shasta is doing well, and involved in activities.

[Liz]

Posted: Wednesday, Nov 23, 2005 - 12:35:00 am PST

So, nothing new to be thankful for this year? (http://www.cdapress.com/articles/2005/11/23/editorials/edit01.txt)

Consider this:

We've come through North Idaho's most horrific crime with a little girl named Shasta emerging from the butchery of her family to the embrace of countless strangers who now are friends. This dark chapter in our region's history has left scars that will never heal, yet it also has defined our community and expanded its benevolent boundaries beyond what any of us could have dreamed.

Just ask Sheriff Rocky Watson, who has every reason to see no further than the very worst in mankind, yet fixes his gaze instead on the very best.
**
Shasta helped him do that. So did many of you reading this Thanksgiving editorial.

Sheriff Watson doesn'