I was not trying to paint Sam Watkins or his band in a bad light in my recent article. At best I thought he had been duped into doing the now famous Haleighbug Benefit Concert. I had the opportunity to talk to Sam Watkins yesterday. And to say the least, it was illuminating.
The concert held in Austin, was to say the least, a bust, according to Sam Watkins, only two tickets were sold. With a case as high profile as Haleigh Cummings, I find that surprising. As Sam pointed out, the Haleigh story was known from coast to coast, even internationally. That much I can attest to we received emails and comments from many countries about the Haleigh Cummings case.
Sam told me that the involvement in the search for Haleigh started as a result of Facebook, Marie Griffis likes his music, and it was she that suggested that he put on the concert.
Sam went on to explain that due to security concerns, it was a high wire act. It is hard to advertise a concert, when you are not sure where and when it is going to be performed. Finally arrangements were made to host the event on a large ranch some 20 miles out of Austin.
I had to ask the obvious question, why do it in Austin? Why not Gainsville or Jacksonville?
The answer surprised me, yet in the same breath it did not. “Haleigh is so well known, we could have held it in London, England, or Florida. The point is, we were trying.”
When I asked about promotion, Sam explained that a press release went out to all of the local radio and TV stations, but none seemed interested. Again I find that strange, and again had the event occurred in Gainsville or Jacksonville it would have been a very different story.
The actual concert was not with out its own set of problems, a lack of suitable power, made the sound board a huge dead weight, it also created a nightmare with the lighting gantry. This also had a ripple down effect to the videographer and his equipment. ‘Yes he does weddings and stuff, but he is a true pro’ was the quote from Sam.
There has been much rumbling and grumbling about the number of tickets sold, and the number is TWO! I got that straight from Sam Watkins! Everyone else in attendance were friends and VIP’s with free passes.
I think it is fair to say that Sam Watkins had good intentions, but things just got derailed. Marketing was zero, in fact it was minus-marketing. A secret concert, at a secret location, does not make people very happy in dipping into their wallets. He had been told that security was a major issue, as a result he kept quiet about many aspects of the planned event until shortly before it happened.
Sam Watkins is a well known artist in the Austin area, and I do not feel that he in anyway was trying to benefit from the event. Although disappointed with the money outcome Sam went on to explain that he did derive great satisfaction from being able to talk at some length with Cystal Shefield, Marie Griffis, and Tim Miller. He is holding what little money was raised, and is trying to decide which organization to send it to.
I asked Sam the following questions: If it could be arraigned, and I am pretty sure it could be, would you take a second stab at this? If there was was a decent venue, costs were covered, and there was proper marketing?
His answer was yes, he would like to do whatever he can to help in finding Haleigh Cummings, and missing children in general. I think this is a brave answer, and Sam should be applauded for it.
In my opinion there were several mistakes made, none of them were deliberate, and all of them compounded to cause the event to implode from a money raising stand point. A poor choice of location was clearly a big factor. The marketing was poorly done and unfocused with an unnecessary level of secrecy. The final issue in my mind was the initial choice of recipient for any monetary gains. The Haleighbug Foundation has not been without its share of controversy, had he selected a mainstream organization like Equusearch, or even made it plain that the proceeds were going directly to the reward fund, I suspect the event would have had a far different outcome.
Simon Barrett
(7 votes, average: 3.86 out of 5)
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142 users commented in " Haleigh Cummings – Sam Watkins Speaks Out About Benefit Concert "
Follow-up comment rss or Leave a TrackbackSam and the band should be commended for their efforts, as well everyone who donated their time to the event. The lack of venue location and inadequate promotion had this event doomed from the start.
This is sad! I saw the ad on “Myspace” I thought too, it was a scam. And not being a Country Western fan, I had never heard of Sam . I feel bad now! But as you stated , no one else had advertised i to make it look legit!
I believe the location of the concert had only a minor role. Noone knows who definitely has done what with or to little Haleigh and therefore does not trust anyone of the players involved in her disappearance. It is nice to see that Crystal is still trying to keep Haleighs awareness out to the public. I have not heard anything yet from Ron and his family on how they are searching for Haleigh, except for opening a NPO to get a PI to look into Crystals side of the family.
I believe the answers still lye in Satsuma. Everyone claims they love Haleigh, but not enough to tell the truth. I pray for Haleigh and all the missing every night. This is so sad.
Now we have a missing little 5 year old out of Fayetville, NC. I feel this one will be close to home as well.
THIS STORY IS JUST SOOOO SAD.WHERE IS THIS BABY?THE MILLION DOLLAR QUESTION.
yes pinkey, and someone out there has the million dollar answer…
Not really much to say about this one.
I doubt a concert would work, anywhere. I am sorry for anyone who has lost a child, but most parents of missing children, go back to work, soon after. How are these people helping themselves? I am not only talking about Crystal’s family, but everyone involved in this case.
If there is no work in that area, pick themselves up, and go to where there is work.
I suppose, I have lost faith that money donated to either of these families would be of help. Satsuna LE has made it clear that they don’t want anyone involved in this case, or any help from outsiders. They moan and groan about all of these tips, that are just hunches, coming in. When asked about how many e-mails they are getting a day, they say about 10. If they can’t handle 10 e-mails coming in a day, on this case, that is pathetic. Maybe, there are more e-mails coming in at times, I don’t know.
My point is this town wants to stay closed off and be left alone. I don’t know how serious anyone involved in this case is, about finding Haleigh. Right now, I don’t see a way to help, except pray.
Thanks simon for digging out this info and putting it out there for those who were interested.
Another thing I would like to say is, that we need to stop and think about what we might be encouraging, when these families of missing children, get so much money and book deals from the loss of a child.
Somer Thompson’s mother has already quit her job. Is this a good thing? I am sure her job would be held for awhile, for her. Is it good for her to just stop work? Does she think she will live off of donations. She keeps making all of these appearances, thanking people for helping her.
I am afraid more children will go missing due to uncaring or greedy parents. Parents do kill their children. We see our papers full of it. If a parent sees some of these people making so much money, going on cruises, making book and movie deals. Could this be something we should think about? Could some greedy parents get rid of their child to cash in?
I don’t really claim to have any answers of how much to help or not help in these situations. I want to go slowly and think about possible greed and whether motives are good, or where our money might be going.
I think with everything negative you read about Haleighs family and the crap they are all involved in, it would be hard for a decent person to shell out money, and you not knowing what it is really being used for! Is it really going toward finding Haleigh, or is it being used by family for “Habits” and their living, since it seems like no one in the family works!
I am really confused here. The Bio Family to my knowledge has never been threatened, by anyone, nor stalked!!! The Bio Dad’s oh Yeaaaaa. But not Crystal and Marie, never heard anything about that.. Never heard any mention they needed any form of security.. Where does this come from??? If Haleigh is so well known all over the County and internationally, then why wouldn’t their radio stations etc. be interested??
I know that Simon and Jan try their very best to get info out to us, and I also believe that Haleigh is deep in both their Hearts.. Just as I am very sure that Sam Watkins is being honest and direct, and had the best of intents on Helping to Find Haleigh..
But, I think Sam like many other people has been dubbed.. I don’t think he received good info, I guess the only way to say this is very Direct.. Sam, you got had.. Now, the finally question, WHY?? Was there another purpose in having this Concert in Austin, Texas. Was it suggest by Tim or by Whom?? Why was a trip to Texas necessary??
Is PCSO or FDLE in Florida or Texas aware of these Security Problems?? These Stalkers?? If not, someone should tell them about it, and Baker County Sheriff’s Office too. In repeating, its news to me!!! Never heard a thing!!!
Hi,Karon Cox (11:44 a.m.)
Have you seen the following:
http://www.claytoday.biz/content/1707_1.php
Clay Today (newspaper) Orange Pard, Fl.
11-10-09
“Hatchet, Red Jump Suit Apparatus join forces for Friday’s Somer benefit concert”
_______________
http://abcnews.go.com/video/playerIndex?id=9032241 ABC News Good Morning America
11-9-09
“Mother’s Quest to Find Somer’s Killer”
VIDEO
_________________
I understand your comment, Karon (11:44 a.m.)!
Great post mlee. If it looks like a duck and walks like a duck and smells like a duck ….
Think what most ticks me off the most is these people are making money off of this precious little girl when they could be doing something positive to bring her home and be truthful.
When my son died everyone asked why not sue the hositpal where we were station at. One thing it wouldnt solve anything and I really couldnt relive the pain by telling my story. My son’s life isnt about money ( a child life shouldnt be all about money) instead I took his memory and taught that hositpal all about Congential Heart Defect and how important it was. I typed out alittle information about my angel and information about CHD and what can be done. I order booklets and pamplets on CHD took them met with each department ob, ultersound, more anything I talked with the hositpal commander about what happened and what changes, I told every pregnant woman I came int contact with about the heart and how important that they see all parts of the heart. I changed something negative that happened to something positive to help the hositpal understand how important it was. My son was born HLHS mising left side of the heart.
There are things that can be done both of these families could come together be honest to what happen with Haliegh and bring her home.
Off Topic: This is sick and disgusting!
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,573992,00.html FOX News.com 11-11-09
“Five Family Members Charged in Missouri Child Sex Case”
gatorgirl (1:38 p.m.):
I am sorry for your loss. I commend you for taking the painful, tragic loss of your son and channeling your efforts, in his memory, into something very positive. Because of your efforts, you have educated the hospital staff and so many others. May God bless you! Your comment is commendable and inspirational.
Mlee, you took the words right out of my mouth.
The concert was held in Bastrop, TX Where I LIVE!! Hell, I didn’t even know that until after the fact. I read it was going to be held in Austin. I most definitely would have gone had I known. So if a local had no clue..how do they expect anyone else to know?? Makes not one bit of sense!
I think - according to Crystal - she was scared of a black man in black while the HB Center was in Satsuma. Other than that, I never heard of anyone threatening the Sheffield’s or Griffis family.
I would also wonder why all the secrecy and why the local media here did not want to pick this story up..advertise it, etc. Either Crystal and Marie wanted to come to Austin just to get away with the guise of a benefit concert or they need to hire a PR person. Or both. I agree, Mlee..Same was duped.
Bottom Line: 9 long months and still no Haleigh. I think she is long gone up in heaven with Somer, Caylee, Nevaeah, Sandra and all the other murdered children.
Karen, I understand your frustration w/these parents who are not working. In particular, the infamous Ant’s who are living off Kidfinder’s and that “foundation” of their’s. They make me sick. Ron is another one..did not return to PDM yet draws unemployment. Not certain Crystal has ever worked for any period of time.
I do feel for Somer Thompson’s mother and cannot say that I blame her for not returning to work yet. It has only been a few weeks. I don not see her as the type that would live off donations, etc. This is my opinion only.
Thanks, Simon..for the article. Looks like we are back to square one. PCSO either is keeping everything close to the vest OR they are as much in the dark as everyone but Misty and Ron. Again, MOO!!
Gatorgirl, my heart and prayers go out to you! What a wonderful, caring person you are!! God Bless You!
Thank you, I just do what I can I know since its been seven years for my loss that the hositpal is doing what I taught them about the heart and the important to be very careful looking.
There are things that these parents can do stand together to find this precious child. Sometimes I wonder if they want her home. I dont know I just wish someone would come forward to tell where this precious angel is.
The more times these clowns get arrested I wonder how much they are really telling to LE about Haliegh I am guessing nothing cause ten months later she hasnt been found.
Apparently there are alot of good people that are still out there that does care about missing children and are trying to do what they can to help find or raise money to help find missing children. Its sad that every day a child goes missing, I dont understand it at all. I know what I can do is keep praying for all these missing children.
I don’t think Sam had been fooled into doing this. I think there were good intentions, but no professional promoter so it failed. I work for a band that has been touring since the 60’s who has plays for several thousand at concerts across the US. The same thing occasionally happens to them with a venues like a small town corn field with a flat bed trailer for a stage and no promotion where only 15 tickets sell. It happens.
I also would not want to donate to either of the familes because I don’t want that money going to drugs or tatoos.
Diena Thompson is a different story. This woman has the ability to speak out with passion and honesty, and I think she will become a voice as strong as Mark Klaas, and someone who will make a difference. I think it is wise she quit her job, as She’s has a strong direction in life.
I gave a good sum of money, but I do not even care about it now,
Finding her is Priceless!!
I just want all of the efforts we have to go to finding Haleigh.
The answers are out there, all the details just need to be revisited.
If I were to donate an amount to have a concert up in Satsuma County, would the proceeds help LE to find Haleigh?
I have been contacting Television producers and Networks to start a show just about missing children; It could play 24/7.
Every unsolved case repeatedly played.
I also thought they should start having 30-second sound bite commercials on all the channels that ask have you seen this child, and post the latest missing children on them.
Lawshrink, that would be wonderful thing.
Hi Justice:
Isn’t that something? Her and her lawyer are doing all these interviews, concerts, and motorcycle events. O.K., will she be a rich woman before all of this is over? There is too much danger for greed in all of this.
I am not condemning Diena Thompson, but I have always heard that you shouldn’t make any quick decisions after a tragedy in your life. To quit her job, so soon, might be a mistake. I can understand her not going back to work this soon,however. I think it might be wiser to make some appearances on the side, for awhile, and take things a little slower.
She has three children to raise, and her ex-husband is trying for disability. I wish she would slow down a little on major job decisions.
Lawshrink:
You are right about all the evidence is out there. I think it is “right” there. I don’t understand all of this, anymore.
I know Hollys GMom is working on the forum and getting allot of info there.
I think we need to revisit, step by step and day by day the facts, as we know them.
Maybe a whole list of thing that each player has done and said that makes them seem suspicious.
I know not all of us will agree with what makes them look like people of interest however, we just had a case down here where bloggers were very instrumental in solving a 5-year-olds murder, so I know it can be done.
Blogging also brings out characters who are involved in the case to blog and slip-ups are made.
Karen - I see your point. It would probably have been safer for Diena to take an emergency leave of absense. She is still in shock, this isn’t even real to her yet, and it isn’t the right time to be making life decisions, but I also understand that all she can think about right now is her loss and finding the killer. Nothing else matters.
Lawshrink - You are right, there is a lot of value to starting over, and rerunning everything we know. For example I recently relistened to the 911 tapes and spotted something new. When the dispatcher called Misty back you can hear Ron in the background pressing electronic buttons that sounded like a microwave and saying “I can’t get this f—ing thing to work!!” What could be so important to operate at a time like this? The washer, which was supposedly going when LE arrived? Cobra believes it was Misty’s cell ringing, but it didn’t sound like a cell. There are hundreds of little things like that which should be discussed. I’m all for brainstorming, but in a thread where we ONLY talk about the Haleigh case with ONLY people who are serious about finding Haleigh.
LindaOz:
One thing I worry about is people that are not well meaning coming out of the woodwork, giving grieving parents wrong advice at a time like this.
I have found out in this life, it is better to not burn our bridges behind us, too rapidly.
There is the possibility that little Somer’s killer could be found really fast, and people would lose interest, very quickly. Then, she would be back to square one, with no job.
If she would listen to people in her family, who really love her, they might advise a little caution.
This is for each person to work thru in their own way. I hope they find the killer soon, and I pray for healing for Diena and the whole family.
LindaOz I believe we are all here are just that “All for one and One for All” Let us find Haleigh!
A lot of times, People (who did it) are hoping that everyone will forget and let it become a cold case, WE can stop that and keep it a hot case by research and revisiting every detail.
I have been trying to get that tape cleared up more, My brother is working on it, but your right there is a lot of stuff going on in the back ground. However, mostly what you do not here is Ron looking through the house for Haleigh. I find that very odd.
I think the entire concert event was poor planning. I am not so sure that Crystal and family have NOT been threatened. Could be the reason why much has not been said by that side.
It always seemed to me that they were holding back, out of fear, more so than involvement.
Just wondering, the anonymous lady who paid off Crystal’s back child support arrears was from Texas. Supposedly her first name was Barbara. Could the reason and location be because she also donated her ranch for the concert? Coincidental all the big money and big donation of ranch property comes from Texas, where no apparent affiliations to the families exist. Weird. I realize the Watkins band is from Texas, but as far as I know it wasn’t their property or affiliated.
LindaOz,
I to have listened to the 911 tapes over a few times and I picked up something this last time I did not hear 3 times ago. I am not sure if it is the call back from 911 in the back ground you could hear Ronald say “How could let them take her??” Now either I am deaf and He said something else but I swear that is what I heard. So who is them or perhaps it was just general anyone? Now in the first 911 call you could hear him say in the background “)itch how could you let my child get stole”.
This whole case has smelled fishy from the start anyway. I surely would not wait till he got home to call 911, I would have picked up the phone and called the minute I seen her gone after checking the home that she did not go sleep on the couch or go to the bathroom and fall back to sleep somewhere else.
Eventually someone is going to crack under the pressure of how long can they let what they know weigh on their minds. It may take a bit more time but eventually I think this case will be solved. I pray for the positive that is a happy homecoming, however after this long you tend to loose a bit of the faith that she is still alive.
If, God forbid, something happened to one of my children I don’t think I could bring myself to get out of bed everyday, let alone return to work. People grieve in their own ways and I don’t think anyone on here has the right to suggest how someone should do it, unless they are trailer park trash like the people surrounding precious little Haleigh. If Somer’s mom wants to quit her job, let her be. Let’s move on from that discussion Geeeeeezzzzzz.
Lawshrink, I think you said that you contributed money in some way for or because of the concert. But I doubt you bought those two tickets we’re hearing about, did you? So there must have been other ways for people to contribute, right? If so, then where did that money go and is there an accounting of it? I’m sorry. I’m still confused about this whole concert thing.
Partebab: Are you saying that the “trailer park trash” family of Haleigh are not entitled to grieve the same way that Somer’s mother is entitled to? I don’t understand your comment at 5:28 pm
There is no right or wrong way to grieve. It is told not to make hasty decisions either like making a huge major move, a quiet your job, divorce your spouse alot of other things as well. I run a support group as well for grieving parents and I have read and have books on grieving with alot of information. A loss of a child doesnt happen over night either it takes times, days, or even years. It took me three yrs to find my peace and its been seven years. Its something that you dont get over with either it stays with you the rest of your life. People do grieve differently there isnt the right or wrong way and their behavior is all normal as well even though you may not think so or not agree with either. Some people chooses to accept their loss and make a difference and learn to move on with the best they can, it doesnt mean they forget their child cause I have never did I choose to accept my loss and help. I still grieve sometimes.
Lawshrink @ 2:16 - I made similar suggestions to the local stations in Orlando before Caylee Anthony’s remains were found and again to more stations near where Haleigh disappeared. I made suggestions that they could air on the TV stations and very easily do on their websites.
Nothing. We can keep trying but remember it’s all about money.
Long ago when America’s Most Wanted had been on the air for more than a few years and was very very successful - had a good audience AND had caught a lot of wanted criminals - Fox was going to cancel it because it wasn’t successful ENOUGH for them. Money-wise, of course. The public was furious and Fox got a lot of bad publicity and obviously kept the program. But those are the kinds of “minds” and “priorities” governing radio and tv and the net. Uncaring, money grubbing morons.
Could someone steer me to an article or announcement about Somer’s mother’s plans? I have not seen that - just the comments about it here. TIA
Karen - Re you 3:39 comment, I completely agree, but I think Diena is thinking only with her broken heart right now. I think she is incapacitated over this. I would hope her employer would understand should she be able to return to work.
Lawshrink - Re you 3:43 comment, I suspect that Ron just bolted in the door when he he heard Haleigh was missing and started searching, and upon returning to the living room where he came in, seeing Misty perhaps just standing there asked if she called police and told her to. So, I don’t think we heard any of his immediate search would he probably could have done in 1 minute.
I’d love to hear any comments you and your brother have about those phone calls. I hope LE has asked Ron what those electronic noises were in the background. Their washer didn’t look like one of those that would make sounds like that. Another thought is the purpose of the washer running. To destroy drugs?
PS: When Misty called LE, I wonder what Ron was doing staying in the house. Shouldn’t he be outside searching with a flashlight calling out for Haleigh? I know he was hysterical, but he was able to search inside the house for her.
I think a benefit-dance should be held..and ALL the money go to build the Reward..Money usually makes people talk..
Lawshrink,
Did you buy one of the two tickets? If so, you can get a refund. There were no other donations.
m2c: Please see my comment time stamped
11-11-09 at 1:21 p.m. There are Links to an article and video from Good Morning America interview.
m2c,
Obviously I was stating that we shouldn’t be suggesting what people should or should not do while grieving, unless of course, you are trailer park trash (meaning the whole Haleigh clan). They have acted like idiots since that poor little girl has been missing. Isn’t this blog about Haleigh or did I miss something. My point is that this Karen person on here has a hard on for what Somer’s mom is doing about work. Leave her alone.
So many missing children and missing young women ends up missing what in the world is going on. This is getting crazier every day its like I dont wont to turn on the tv any more. Prayers for all families of missing children and young women.
Well now is this not something,finally something came out that seemed okay.Yet not so okay.what a shame that concert wasn’t billed right and shame on all the TV and Radio station that did not help.Just think such a great group and a meaningful cause they were trying to support.I have only one thing to say to Sam Watkins and his band;Thank you from the bottom of my heart for doing something so kind.God Bless You and yours.Hope that they can come to Florida and do a concert and hope that it will be a big one with a lot of support.Hope I can be there.Haleigh is America’s sweet heart and we love her.Thanks Simon for clearing this one up for us all.And as far as where the money came from to pay the back child support came from,who’s ranch,and it being from Texas,why is people harping on it,the people of Texas has hearts as big as that state,thank them,and what the heck Ron got his money so that should make him happy,and now he wants more from whom ever he can get it as long as he don’t have to work for it.He never wanted to work or he would of called and talked to his boss.And as for Somer’s mom hope and pray she can find way to ease her pain and hold her other children close and although she has lose her little girl just know her other children are still her and need her so much more now than before as they too have lost their sister,God loves them all.People please don’t make her hurt worse.
People should not second guess other people in the decisions they make. I mean this in a nice way, but it really is none of our business whether someone quits their job or not. Diena Thompson is a very open interpersonal human being. It seems Somer was alot like her Mom. However, just because Diena Thompson has shared her feelings publically, this does not give anyone license to put every decision she makes under a microscope and criticize her. Come on. Let’s all get off her back.
I have read some really mean and hideous criticisms of this lady on other blogs lately. I am sickened and angry about the callous and judgmental hearts out there. Instead of tearing this woman apart with rankor and hate, let’s look for the good in her and lift her up. She is at the lowest point in her life. Let’s not finish her off like a pack of wild animals who kill their wounded. We are human beings capable of compassion and kindness: we minister to our wounded. Don’t we?
There are some things I really like about Diena Thompson. She seems to have a gift for communication - she does it well; she is a grateful person and shows her appreciation. She admits her faults. She is personable and friendly.
Please do not let the fact that this is a strongly interpersonal lady (who does much of her thinking and working things out in conversation with other people), lead you to decide she is seeking the limelight. This is the way she is made, and there is nothing wrong with that. She is grieving publically, because so many people responded with concern about Somer. Diena felt a link or bond with the public who cared so much about her baby, so naturally, she discusses her grief and her thoughts with us.
Please Google or Bing Interpersonal Intelligence or Interpersonal learning style to learn more about it. Thank you for reading this and considering what I am saying here.
No, I tried to contact them with no luck. It was more than just two tickets worth.
Another question, people magazine is featuring” missing without a track,” Haleigh is not featured.
I called the Magazines and asked why not, they stated the family would not return their phone calls.
Why would they not want her picture on the cover of this magazine??
Morning, Lawshrink!
I understand what you are saying but consider the beating that the family has received by the public. How could they know that ALL the magazine wanted was a photo? Maybe the mag wanted to interview them too? If they’d said yes to that they’d be villified just as they are for essentially saying no.
It’s at a point where no one in that family can do (or not do) anything without scathing hate-filled criticism.
The situation might be worth a closer look though - like who exactly did the mag contact? What message was left? Did the family member tell a lawyer about it? How much time did the family member have to respond?
So yes, on the surface it looks bad but I’d like to know the answers to those questions before deciding about it.
M2C, True, True. They would not give me any information, I had just asked one question why they had not put her in there, and their only response was they did not return phone calls. Therefore, any scenario could be true.
I also went to Walmart and asked why she was not displayed with all the other missing children on the wall when you first walk in to the store? They stated no one in the family came in to ask if it could be displayed. They have to ask walmart and sign papers to have it done. Nowhere in Florida is her poster displayed.
One more thing, Chrystal’s Face book page has several people she knows in Texas.
Hi, Lawshrink!
That is very interesting about Haleigh’s poster -not being anywhere. Some months ago a blogger here drove thru that town and did not see any posters. But when they left a comment about it someone claiming to be local said it was a lie.
Maybe there were some posters when she first went missing but obviously NO ONE is keeping up with that. How hard would that be? What is the HBCenter for? Isn’t Crystal from a big family that could hang them up? Not to mention neighbors in the area. Even if people don’t like one or the other family, so what? A kid is missing.
At the very least wouldn’t you think LE would help keep posters up? Unbelievable!
Also I remember hearing long ago - completely unrelated to the concert thing (I think) that Crystal’s family had Texas connections. That’s one reason why I hoped LE would closely scrutinize the miraculous payment of the back child support.
I’m not saying the concert was an intentional scam. I think it was doomed to failure and should have been cancelled. I don’t really know why it wasn’t. Sam W seems to have known no one was going to be there. Unless contracts were made with the band or videographer or something. But in SW’s work he should have insurance for cancellation and things.
Anyway, it’s a shame that her own “home town” area seems to WANT to forget Haleigh, don’t you think?
In addition, you go to the Putnam Sheriffs website and all they have is a picture of Haleigh and a link that brings you to crimestoppers then you have to dig to find out the information about her case. In addition, most missing children’s families put more than one picture of the child, a different view of her.
I don’t understand it, Lawshrink. Maybe bloggers ARE the only people who are still looking for and care about Haleigh? Unbelievable!
One of Mistys buddys from the drug buy gone wrong was just arrested. Melinda Satamyer is in jail check it out on putnam county jail logs. Hope she has some info that misty may have let out by mistake…. funny how everyone who comes in contact with these people end up getting arrested.. bad karma maybe
You know what, even despite the fact that Walmart cannot put her picture up because the family has not signed the release to do so, and people magazine can’t put her in their magazine because the family won’t return their calls. I am (as I speak) printing out 25,000 flyers of her missing poster and I am going to post them in every wayside, Truck stop, fast food restaurant , Back of moving trains, busses and Long haul trucks till the day they find her!!
Someone has to be there to fight for her return. Seeing how her family is not.
VirginiaTwo, I so agree with you Diena Thompson should not be judged. It is true everyone grieves differently. I can see her thinking is that she is going to do everything she can do to help find this killer. I would focus my energy on that, thinking the more I pushed the better chance of saving another innocent child.
As far as the theory that Ron & Misty are together on a cover up and agreed to lie to LE etc. That doesn’t make any sense to me that they would divorce in the middle of this if they have a story to hide. JMO.
Gatorgirl, I am sorry for you losing your baby and I am so glad you were able to channel your pain into a positive. Your efforts may very well save lives.
I think they want this to go away and that is why we havent heard anything. They arent profiting and this isnt going to turn out like they hoped so they are wanting it to go away. I hope I am wrong but I feel that they are more worried about their own lives and not halieghs anymore….jmo
Lawshrink, I admire your giving, your efforts, and your generous offer to help fund a benefit.
Just a thought since everyone involved with misty ends up in jail has anyone ever thought to talk with jeremiah miller? you know the guy that got locked up because he supposedly had contact with misty when she was 12 or 13, the one that got put in prison… He probably could tell us alot about misty and how her mind works I believe he was thrown under the bus along time before all of this mess jmo
sorry i got the first name wrong its jeremy miller
the croslins lived in flagler in 2006 when lisa croslin appears on court papers against jeremy miller…
I have been in contact now with several places up there to find a place to have a benefit concert and dance and guess what, I seem to do really well, and then when they ask me what it is for all sorts of problems crop up for them. This really makes me wonder what is up in this county.
I think that if we could do a concert in the area of Satsuma or Bker County then it would prduce a much bigger crown and all the proceeds should go for the reward money to find HaLeigh…or perhaps to pay a private PI to go investigate undercover……there has to be a way to find out what happened to HaLeigh….someone knows, she didnt just dissapear, God Bless HaLeigh!!!
Yes “justmeonly,” I was calling all the places in Putnam, Satsuma, and Baker County.
They all have issues about a benefit there. I would want the funds to go to finding Haleigh for sure!!
Season is coming down here and there will be more than 74.2 million people will be down here to visit. Now is the time to really start passing out Flyers and letting people know we have two children who are missing from this state that need their help.
Hey you know what, I think I will have the concert / Dance / for missing Adji too.
Kool Look said,
in November 11th, 2009 at 5:22 pm
Just wondering, the anonymous lady who paid off Crystal’s back child support arrears was from Texas. Supposedly her first name was Barbara. Could the reason and location be because she also donated her ranch for the concert? Coincidental all the big money and big donation of ranch property comes from Texas, where no apparent affiliations to the families exist. Weird. I realize the Watkins band is from Texas, but as far as I know it wasn’t their property or affiliated.
==============
Barbara is from around Houston and the concert was around Austin. No connection
tobias, come on, don’t try to justify a rapist!!!
jeremymiller is the last person who should get a voice or vote in anything to do with Haleigh. He confessed - he took a plea - get real - NO ONE would do that if they were innocent. Why even bring him up? What does it have to do with Haleigh?
lawshrink not only would i donate for this cause but i will also attend.
Treece i agree mayb jeremy is a rapist.However I myself was accused of a crime that I really did’nt committ,and yes I took a plea.I really didn’t do what I plead guilty to.I plead guilty bcuz my lawyer said it looked like i was guilty and if i didn’t take the plea bargin i may get a jail sentence verses probation.Being older now,would i do it again?….yes bcuz the system isn’t always just and fair.Things aren’t always the way they seem
tobias - Yes, certain IMO misguided people have actually written to him in jail and of COURSE he says he’s innocent! Of sexual assault and battery on a 13 year old girl. I don’t think so.
Not if he took a plea and still got what was it? Eight years in prison? It takes more than a young girl’s word to get that kind of time. LE had to have the goods on him. Why bring that up?
That’s a case involving a minor for pete’s sake.
A 13 year old.
Pinkey - Jail vs probation I can kind of understand but a plea deal for EIGHT YEARS!?
That was a DEAL?
I really do think that no matter how ill anyone thinks of Misty now that raking this up is really going too far.
justmeonly and Lawshrink - Normally I’d agree about holding a benefit event in Haleigh’s area but after learning that there aren’t even any posters up who there cares enough to even attend?
I really don’t understand the “since everyone around Misty gets thrown in jail.” Since when has Misty been the LEADER of other teens (men and/or women) and been the influence behind their crimes (drug use/theft etc). This is nonsensical. The people who have gone to jail - Amber, Nay-Nay, Tommy, Chad etc. were perfectly capable of commiting the crimes necessary to get there all by themselves.
not justifying him just wondered if he was like ronald an older guy who got hit with statitory rape because misty wasnt being taken care of by her parents and had a boyfriend that was older than her… maybe the real problem here is misty and the guys in her life arent exactly bright either….
just how old was jeremy miller when this happened i heard he was also very young. Guess misty has experience with cross examinations and testifing in court hmmm. jmo
He was 16 years old. I guess that would make him older than Misty. I could less what the little freak has to say and he’s in jail for a violent crime and forever a SO.The SA didn’t put him in jail on just the word of a 13 YO. If she was raped and beaten up there is also physical evidence.
tobias, those records are sealed because the victim was a juvenile. So none of us know anything about it so I really don’t think we should speculate. Also, since a plea deal was accepted that means there would not necessarily have been a trial at which anyone would testify.
And if the accused was a juvenile, too, wouldn’t that have meant serving at a juvie facility for a few years until he was 21 instead of 8 years?
This is ALL just speculation and the ONLY purpose in discussing it is to throw even MORE mud on Misty who is already covered in it.
It’s just not right and it’s not necessary.
tobias, you “just wonder”, you “guess misty has…”, you don’t even know the story of what happened but you are saying all this crap. He was a minor also and his violent crime was so bad he was charged as an adult. It repulses me for anyone to make light of a rapists. You obviously don’t have a clue the horrific damage that sexual abuse does. Again I ask what does this have to do with Haleigh? Why bring this up?
I do not believe it is because you care for Haleigh!!
Off Topic:
http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/33881445/ns/today-today_people/
MSNBC Today Show 11-12-09 8:45 a.m CT
“Mom: Somer assumed they wouldn’t hurt her”
_Article & Video
____________
My comment: At the top (to the right) is a Video. Interesting ….it states LE has a new, sophisticated computer program that scans the Internet for comments and entries (not verbatim). I wonder if this system is being used in the Haleigh Cummings Case.
It has to do with mistys mind set , if something this horrible happened to her surely she would be more cautious and alert to a possible s/o… sorry if my way of thinking offends anyone… I want haliegh found too and sorry to say we have to delve into the people who were in charge of this child and who were supposed to be protecting her. the only way to find her is to find out about the other people around her.
PCSO has said this is a non stranger abduction so unless some close friend or family member is a RSO this whole discussion is moot.
Well there are a few people with the last name Griffis who are RSO’s and live in Baker County but I doubt there is any connection.
can someone put up a link to the(amplified) 911 call with all the beeping and commotion in the background! Thanks in advance.
tobias, that is just not an appropriate way to “find out about a person”. Speculating & trying to make Misty look bad when she was a victim of a heinous crime is just too much. Yes it is offensive, at least to EVERY victim of a pervert.
WELL SAID TREECE
Link Pls!
you are right misty doesnt need my help to look bad she does it all by her self. just my 2 cents. find out what shes hiding and youll find haliegh i wont post again ill just ghost
I’m sorry, Tobias, but trying to turn it around to have us believe that you think that Misty - being a victim of an SO - should have been able to recognize one on sight (and therefore have another reason to make her look bad or be responsible for what happened to Haleigh) is absolutely ridiculous. You’re still making HER pay the price for being a victim.
It is VERY difficult for anyone to know who an SO might be - EVEN a victim of one.
AS MANY TIMES AS I HAVE HEARD THAT 911 CALL WHEN HALAIGH WENT MISSING I NEVER NOTICED RON INTHE BACKGROUND LYING ABOUT THE LOCK BEING SIDEWAYS.LATER ON THE INTERVEIW W/ GRETA VANSUSTERNER(sp?)HE’S ASKED HOW DID THE PERP GET IN HE RESPONDS”A PICKLOCK”.YEAH RIGHT!!!!
IMO THE ENTIRE 911 CALL SOUNDS FISHY.
First of all I don’t necessarily believe PCSO’s conclusion that this is a non- stranger abduction. Also, I would like LE to define what exactly they mean by that. A lot of people aren’t exactly “strangers” but aren’t family either (or even REAL close to the family).
I think they came to that conclusion way to soon. And we can’t be blamed for doubting them. If they have proof of some kind that they are holding back - that’s their right. But they’ll have to take the heat in the meantime because I am still open to a lot of other theories.
tobias, I agree Misty has done things to make herself look bad. I think you will probably agree also that it is more than a child’s fault when they didn’t finish elementary school. “Adults” have a huge responsibility for failing Misty. I think her parents, the school system, LE and probably a number of other people didn’t do what they should have in her life. However, that does not justify her behavior if she is hiding info about Haleigh. You may be correct that she is hiding the info that would lead to Haleigh. I think no one knows what or if she knows anything. I understand your frustration. I think you understand mine. I just don’t think a previous crime against her is anything to stir up here. I don’t want you to feel like you can not post here but please do so respectfully. Have a nice evening. Thank you, Treece
tobias, you are welcome to post but as you can see many of us are not interested in wild speculation especially when used to attempt to support the spurious allegations of someone who has already made up their mind.
Pinkey: Some locks are extremely easy to pick. I saw it done right in front of my eyes one time on a lock that was pretty good. I’d think at least as good if not better than whatever Ron had.
Also SOs have been known to go in the back earlier in the day/eve or thru a window and hide until everyone went to sleep. Abductions when the family is home HAVE happened.
When we look at the type of people around poor little Haleigh - on both her parents’ sides and Misty’s family (i.e. Tommy in particular) and a lot of people in that area it would not surprise me at all if someone else took her.
I just don’t have enough evidence to be able to say that Ron or Misty did it.
It is possible one or both of them are lying but not necessarily about what happened to Haleigh.
Ron could have been running around getting rid of drugs, being sure Misty didn’t have any that she hadn’t told him about, checking to see if his guns and other carp were still there and he sure isn’t going to tell LE he was doing that.
So to me there are still too many other ways to look at this.
Whatever happened to Misty in the past is NOT really our business… I can understand that it may lend some insight into her frame of thinking… But she was a MINOR… afford her some Dignity… be respectful of that incident.
pinkey32, I know that sometimes injustice happens from fear that justice won’t come out. I am sorry for the wrong done to you. This was an extreme case. He took a plea, forfeiting a jury trial, when he was a minor charged as an adult. What I read about this case it was heinous and I believe had it gone to trial the sentencing would have been much more severe. Regardless, of that when we don’t know all the facts, using the crime against the victim is just wrong. Again, I am sorry you were not done right. I know that is hard to take. Treece
cent, you summed up all I have been trying to say, thank you. treece
This is just heresay but i’m telling you in advance so no one can say i was trying to start a runor but ….. I have heard previously That the cousin Joe O.’s MO(modus operandi ) in previous breakins was to use a brick to prop open doors.. Then suddenly He’s gone to Tennessee like quick (that same say).. anyone else heard this.. Whats your thoughts. What made LE clear this guy? I saw one of those siter in laws of misty say I “think” i wouldve heard him get up in the night but its possible but then said but almost positive couldnt have left that night without her knowing. If shes in a differt room sleeping and the guys ” sneaky” quiet i’m sure he could leave and return later unnoticed. Woul’ve been an insider who could’ve turned the deadbolt earlier in the day then came back when knew misty was gone partying and Ron was working.
if he has a rap sheet that LE can look at and has an MO style of using bricks isnt that some MAJOR probable cause! non-stranger ..has same MO as what happened.. fits LE’s description perfectly of what they’re looking for. If Misty reveals that she was gone I think they have him. Its just a matter of misty admitting she was gone and facing a neglect /leading to death charge. She’s not gonna do herself like that, so isnt the MO and being an insider known to Haleigh not enough probable cause to bring him in. Then they can just give misty immunity from the /leadiong to death charge for her testimony about partying!Or do I sound like I am speculating too much.?
Treece,
No prob… in fact you were/are very on point!!
I just see no need to go there. Actually I believe that is why a number of people don’t come forward about abuse, they CAN NEVER live it down!!!
Mel22,
I think that was stated on tv, also, in the beginning when cousin Joe’s name came up (M.O.)
The modus operandii of that guy i heard on other forums may be heresay but if its true it makes the case fit perfectly to LE description and the fact they cant get misty to ” finish the timeline”.. in other words she wont say she was gone which for some reason stumps them.. he still couldve broke in while she was sleeping.. so isnt there still too much probable cause against him?
oh ok then
suddenly i feel like LE does..lilke i’m turning a blind’s eye to obvious clues in front of me .. but if you say so…..
hey cent .. wouldn’t that be on his rap sheet that they could check to see if he really does have a style of using bricks to prop open doors?
it would be as simple as going through police reports in his file to check and either include or disclude from being a suspect. Must be heresay and LE already checked to see and cleared him of that MO.
How about that JOE Ptyko who gave the sworn affidavit? can’t they check out who he knows closely in this group to get further information on them all?
ok i’ll leave now no ones talking back at me… but before I go…. can anyone out there pls post the link to the amplified background noises of the 911 call.. THANKS i’m going to play Tex Hold ‘EM
mel,
I would think they would know his “skillz”… But if he did use them to aid in his “exploratory adventures”, did he pack them up in his little gadget bag of tricks, to take with him? Or did he just fly by the seat of his cargo jeans.
Not making fun of u… guess I am making fun of cousin Joe… the brick layer.
Mel,
I suspect LE has most likely ran down all those types… you are right.. people are creatures of habit… folks tend to hang with like minded folks.
no cent .. what im saying is if he saw that pile of bricks before then he would easily grab one at the time of breakin. Criminals are dumb but are not completely stupid.. in fact i would say they are more ” SLy” to the things around them. they have an “eye” on what can be used and what can be done at “what” time.. get what i’m sayin…..
mel22, maybe this interview will help.
http://www.mahalo.com/answers/news/saw-2day-that-misty-has-a-cuz-now-suspect-named-joe-there-is-a-joeseph-mammanoregsexoffender-in-tenn
mel22, after you get on that page scroll down & there is a 5-6 minute video where Misty mentions Joe Overstreet back in Feb. treece
I think someone could have premeditated this and put a brick holding the screen door open earlier in the day to prevent it from making noise at night.
in other words.. i don’t think it was just happenstance when he broke in.. I think he planned the breakin according to times and schedules of ron being at work and knew the items available to use around the yard .. I once had a ” so-called friend” who opened up the lock on my bathroom window while using the toilet. then later after i left for 2nd shift , snuck in through the window and took 300 dollars from my stash in the bedroom.. once police arrived and took fingerprints and they advised me they had a match .two weeks later he was caught and ended up being the guy i knew.
Im not saying he preplanned taking haleigh but after realizing she was “left” there and now she saw him ,then he grabbed her, put her in the van and disposed of her, then Skipped town like ” SEEEE Ya!”
Mel,
I uderstand what you’re saying… I have just been feelin giddy is all… watchin Bette Davis on TCM… love her.
I’m just sorta going back and forth with Tommy/Joe… Yes he got outta there real quick, but being that he’s had LE issues prior, I can kinda see someone running scared.
Also they way he was fingered, to me was an after thought.
Mel,
I uderstand what you’re saying… I have just been feelin giddy is all… watchin Bette Davis on TCM… love her.
I’m just sorta going back and forth with Tommy/Joe… Yes he got outta there real quick, but being that he’s had LE issues prior, I can kinda see someone running scared.
Also they way he was fingered, to me was an after thought.
I’m just gonna leave this one alone and go play some cards cause i’m not even sure if this MO is heresay or not. Peace Out ! and if anyone has that amplified link to 911 call - pls post!
I have been wondering/asking if anything else was taken besides the baby????
And… before anyone suggests.. NO I WILL NOT CALL LE AND ASK THEM THAT… I’ll ask ART!!!
Remind me, was Joe staying with Tommy?
No, I ” believe” he was staying with the other sister-in law Timmy and Chelsea not tommy and lindsey. Not completly positive though. But one of them also staes that the van was taken by “whoever” was staying with them and said she had an idea who might be involved. I think thats big news from an insider and one with much more credibility than the others
.
That same girls goes on to say ” No , Misty, I did not take ” your” van. So who’s van is this anyway.. Is it registered to Ron and Misty or Timmy and Chelsea? I dont have the vid but its easily findable but I dont know how to post links sorry, but listen to those words closely when you find it. ” No Misty. I did not take ” YOUR” van !”
He is also the one that likes to watch the Gators feed, per Tommy and Ronnie.
That puts Joe o. over at Timmy and chelseas and chelsea saying that he took the van that she was using but was in all actuality Misty’s (or rons) by registration. Must’ve let them borrow occasionally!MIsty implicates him and without naming names sounds like Chelseaq is pointing her finger at him.. Thats two against one on his crediblity and accessibility to the items in question on the night of the kidnapping!
mel22,
I noticed that too, sometime ago… I believe she just mixed up her words in retelling the conversation. But there’s a article here that reads like it’s Misty’s van. I thought it was her brothers.
i beleive Timmy and chelsea also lived very close down the street same as Tommy and Lindsey did just a differnt street but within very close distance to the mobile home. He was probably the one who dumped her in the trash bin and got picked before LE secured the next pickup on the 14th. So she probably did make it to the dump on the Feb 10th pickup. I know thats tough news , not trying to offend but thats what looks like to me.
If they could secure the area of the dump where the Feb 10 th pickups were dropped I bet she’s there. After 10 months thats a lot to look through but not all would be dumped in one location all at once. There’s still a chance!
Lindsy owns the van Chelsea borrowed it Joe was staying with Chelsea. Misty only barrows the van, from time to time.
Chelsea lives in cresant city, Lindsey live one street over.
Yep i think your right Lawshrink, But i’m still wondering why Chelse says ” your” van to misty if its really Lindseys. And thank I did not know Chelsea lived that much farther way. But Joe still could have made the 10 miles or so trip.. Thats not that far to steal a gun or whatever he was going after in the mobile home.
We should all ask T.J. ,Simon, Jan and Cobra and the rest to clear up spome of these details on their next broadcast so we can weed out whats true and whats fiction. I’d be interested to hear Where the van was , what time it was last seen parked, and who had keys/ access to the van and who it was really registered to. Anyone else? There has to be a searchable title somewhewre?
Ok i’m going to sleep .. This is the most i’ve ever posted and it’s making me tired. See y’all later.
Karon, I understand what you were saying early that you don’t want people to look at Somer Thompson’s mom and think they can make money off of losing a child. You have a point some sick o could think like that. It is beyond me how there could ever be enough money to be worth my child but we do know some people like Casey Anthony don’t value their children like that. I don’t think you have to worry about Diena Thompson looking at this as a money maker. I think she is pouring herself into everything she can do to keep people looking for this pervert. I think she is motivated to do the very last thing she can do for Somer to bring her killer to justice. Even more than that I think she is motivated to stop this mad man before he gets another innocent baby.
We never know. Diena Thompson has a strong personality and when she heals up some she may just be another John Walsh in some way speaking for the innocent, being a child advocate.
Another reason I understand her quitting her job is she couldn’t let her kids walk home or come home alone ever again. She is not divorced by the dad has been gone a long time. He hadn’t seen the kids in over 2 years and hadn’t even talked to them on the phone for a few months. I guess she was doing what she thought she had to do. My heart breaks for her. My kids are grown and I have regrets about mistakes I made with them. But no regret could ever compare to her wishing she had done things differently that day. It is not her fault that an insane animal took Somer. I pray they find him soon.
Can everyone put this out anywhere you can?Here is his photo and surveillance photos of him carrying her into the room of the hotel.The frickin lowlife has her now…
http://www.wral.com/news/local/story/6402664/
Police search for second suspect in girl’s disappearance
Mario Andrette McNeill.
Posted: Today at 1:53 a.m.
Updated: 11 minutes ago
Fayetteville, N.C. — Authorities are searching a second suspect in the disappearance of a 5-year-old Fayetteville girl, police said Thursday.
Police said Shaniya Nicole Davis was seen at a Sanford hotel on Tuesday morning with 29-year-old Mario Andrette McNeill.
A hotel worker called police on Tuesday to report seeing a child matching Shaniya’s description, according to Theresa Chance, spokeswoman for the Fayetteville Police Department.
Surveillance video showed the child with McNeill at the hotel at 6:11 a.m., less than a half-hour before she was reported missing from her family’s home at 1116-A Sleepy Hollow Drive in Fayetteville.
McNeill had checked out by the time police arrived to the hotel, Chance said.
Found these to be interesting… Don’t know if someone else here has read/potsed these
http://www.wvmetronews.com/index.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=33535
http://www.dailytexanonline.com/top-stories/men-imprisoned-for-yogurt-shop-murders-released-1.2042986#4
Treece,
Very true it isnt Diena fault. She was a mom who worked, her kids walked home there are alot of single moms that has to work full time and kids are key latched children. I am one of them but right now I am on medical leave. But when I was working I do know there are two other parents that wait up at my son’s bus stop and he takes his cell phone with him to let me know when he gets home from school of course my son is 13 yrs old but it doesnt matter.
For her to quit working at her job is all understandable I am sure she will be over protective with the other two children which is all natural as well. Things like this we dont know if it would still have happened if she did things differently that we all cant answer. I just pray and hope that she allows herself to heal and pray that she allows God to help her through this cause He is the only person that can get her through this. I pray that they find this idiot who did this to this precious child I hope we can find him before it happens to another child.
My thoughts and prayers are with Diena and her family even Somer’s dad. He seemed to be hurting as well no matter what was going on in the divorce. I am not sure if he was or wasnt there for his children but he is still their father and hurt as well.
Praying that Haliegh is found and brought home.. Prayer for all missing children and their families.
http://jacksonville.com/news/metro/crime/2009-11-12/story/in_somer_thompson_case_rumors_become_a_big_problem
gatorgirl, I agree the father is hurting too. I don’t know the circumstances as to why he hadn’t seen his kids but I am sure he is so sorry & regretful that he didn’t. No matter what a parent has regrets when something happens to their child.
I have to ask someone if this cousin is so terrible why would Mistys brother and his wife let him stay with their little kids and them for several weeks. This whole case and the people involved make my head spin. Hope Haliegh is found and whoever took her is brought to justice. Also I find it odd that no one has come forth for the reward. With the economy and job losses people are really hurting for any kind of money, so no one must know anything except the one or ones that will go to jail for this. jmo
The van must have been in satsuma on Monday because Mistys blanket was in it. She states it was in the van they took in her stress test.
That has me stumped too why would her blanket be in it, this is all too weird at times but I am sure the PO PO know more and they will get to the bottom of it all soon. Oh yea is it just me or does anyone find it odd that everyone claims joe took the gun and then tommy steals a gun later hmmmm.
also misty keeps bringing up the pee blanket, she was there on sunday night why wait to wash it monday night…
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