It is a beautiful and peaceful day morning here at the sanctuary. The chimps started their day, as they do most days this time of year, basking in the early morning sun coming into the greenhouse, and our neighborhood elk, Ellie, was still dozing in the shaded green grass when I arrived. Such a day couldn’t be more fitting as we celebrate a day of sanctuary sponsored in honor of Robert Ruggeri by his daughter, Rachel Ruggeri. Rachel shared this beautiful and touching message about her father:
“This day is in honor of my father, Robert Ruggeri, who would have celebrated his 81st birthday on June 6th. Though he passed away four years ago this July, his vital spirit continues to remain present in our minds and in our hearts. His love of animals was part of the fabric of his being – always with a dog by his side and happy to see all creatures enjoying their natural habit and the freedom that ensued. He would love nothing more than to see the chimps enjoying a sense of well-deserved peace and harmony among the acres of Eastern Washington, the place he himself fondly called home.”
Rachel, thank you so very much for your generous gift for the chimpanzees in memory of your father. We are honored to celebrate Robert and our hearts are with you and your family, hoping that the incredible memories you must have of him fill you with love and comfort. He sounds like such an amazing being and we’ll be holding thoughts of his special spirit here with us all.
Burrito, in all his courage, on top of the Twister:
Jamie and Foxie:
Annie (below) and Missy (top):
Master Forager, Jody:
Negra:
Sunset over the sanctuary:
That’s a really beautiful picture of Negra !!
I’m so pleased for these chimps, they deserve the lovely life they have. They are so well cared for, and loved. I think that the arguments about animals in captivity is totally superseded by this good care. Their species is under threat and they have been used and abused by humans . This is definitely a very good option .