NEWS:
2019 Highlights

February 2019
This little greyhound took a bad fall a few weeks ago. Although on the mend now, Maddie remained in the hospital over a week fighting infection and accepting all the new hardware the veterinarians used to put her leg back together. We fund-raised to help towards her medical expenses.
May 2019
If you were not there, YOU MISSED A GREYT TIME!
2019 Picnic is now a wonderful memory of human and hound friends...old and new. Thank you Thank you Thank you ALL for the wonderful support, all the amazing Raffle donations and participating in making our few days in Dunnellon the best ever.
If you were not there, YOU MISSED A GREYT TIME!
2019 Picnic is now a wonderful memory of human and hound friends...old and new. Thank you Thank you Thank you ALL for the wonderful support, all the amazing Raffle donations and participating in making our few days in Dunnellon the best ever.
2018 Highlights
February 2018
We had a GREY Valentine's Online Auction - "FOR THE LOVE OF HOUNDS"
We had a blast fundraising for Freeway's Greyt Escape!
Thank you to everyone who donated wonderful items, and bid!!
We had a GREY Valentine's Online Auction - "FOR THE LOVE OF HOUNDS"
We had a blast fundraising for Freeway's Greyt Escape!
Thank you to everyone who donated wonderful items, and bid!!
What a greyt time we had at the Fab-Roo-Lous '50s picnic. Thank you one and all, humans and hounds, for playing with us and supporting Freeway's Greyt Escape, Inc. Here are a few of our photos. If you want a CD of all the photos let me know in PM or contact me from our web page. Rooooo!
May 2018
Freeway's Greyt Escape, Inc.'s Annual Community Yard Sale in Garrettsville, Ohio was a big success! Many donated antiques and collectible items offered, with 100% of the proceeds going to Freeway's Greyt Escape, Inc. to help save injured greyhounds and support greyhound rescue and adoption.
Thank you to everyone who donated, helped out, and shopped!
Freeway's Greyt Escape, Inc.'s Annual Community Yard Sale in Garrettsville, Ohio was a big success! Many donated antiques and collectible items offered, with 100% of the proceeds going to Freeway's Greyt Escape, Inc. to help save injured greyhounds and support greyhound rescue and adoption.
Thank you to everyone who donated, helped out, and shopped!

August 2018
This is Destiny. Her medical bills exceeded $3,000.00 to repair her broken leg. Freeway's Greyt Escape will pay up to $1,500.00 toward her medical expenses. Thank you for your support. xo
December 2018
WaHoo! Check out American Human Hero Dog contest....there are so many greyhounds stories out there that warm the heart and soul. I know YOU have one of them. Enter your Emerging Hero into the American Humane Association's Hero Dog Award for 2018. And be sure to select Freeway's Greyt Escape, Inc. as your Emerging Hero Charity Partner! (*Update* We were chosen as Charity Partner!*
It is a win-win situation....all of Freeway's donations go back to help our injured (surrendered) greyhound brothers and sisters!
We're a proud charity partner of the @americanhumane @herodogawards! Nominate your #herodog today and help us win up to $7,500!
WaHoo! Check out American Human Hero Dog contest....there are so many greyhounds stories out there that warm the heart and soul. I know YOU have one of them. Enter your Emerging Hero into the American Humane Association's Hero Dog Award for 2018. And be sure to select Freeway's Greyt Escape, Inc. as your Emerging Hero Charity Partner! (*Update* We were chosen as Charity Partner!*
It is a win-win situation....all of Freeway's donations go back to help our injured (surrendered) greyhound brothers and sisters!
We're a proud charity partner of the @americanhumane @herodogawards! Nominate your #herodog today and help us win up to $7,500!
December 2018
We would like to wish each and everyone of our Facebook friends a very Merry Christmas and the best wishes for a Greyt New Year. And we would like to thank all of you who generously supported Freeway's mission this year. Each of you has made a difference in the life of a greyhound and we are eternally grateful. Diana |
2017 Highlights
Freeway's Spring Round Up Picnic at Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon, FL. is now a memory,
but what a memory it is! Comfort Suites was a perfect 10....staff, rooms location, etc. Thank you Megan.
Pappa John's Pizza was hot and delicious!
And Rainbow Springs State Park surprised everyone with its beauty. It was a little bit of a walk from the parking lot, but the Pavilion was not far from the Ranger Station.
Dunnellon is a very quaint town with super nice folks, great restaurants and every amenity you could ask for. Lisa and staff at Swampy's Grill went out of their way to make us feel at home...even going as far as to put in a 'doggie station' with water bowl, poop bags and trash can. Although we were 8 shy of our reservation, we still had a good time sitting outside along the Rainbow River enjoying alligator bites, jambalaya and the best fried shrimp ever!
Thank you everyone for coming out to play...loved seeing old friends and making new friends, humans and hounds.
but what a memory it is! Comfort Suites was a perfect 10....staff, rooms location, etc. Thank you Megan.
Pappa John's Pizza was hot and delicious!
And Rainbow Springs State Park surprised everyone with its beauty. It was a little bit of a walk from the parking lot, but the Pavilion was not far from the Ranger Station.
Dunnellon is a very quaint town with super nice folks, great restaurants and every amenity you could ask for. Lisa and staff at Swampy's Grill went out of their way to make us feel at home...even going as far as to put in a 'doggie station' with water bowl, poop bags and trash can. Although we were 8 shy of our reservation, we still had a good time sitting outside along the Rainbow River enjoying alligator bites, jambalaya and the best fried shrimp ever!
Thank you everyone for coming out to play...loved seeing old friends and making new friends, humans and hounds.
2017 Freeway's Fairway Challenge
Freeway's 4th Annual Fairway Challenge was a GREYT success. Thirty-two golfers met on Saturday April 29th at River Hall Golf Club to compete in Freeway's annual golf scramble. It was a beautiful Gulf Coast Day
as the golfers began the 18th hole tournament.
Special thanks for supporting our event goes to Tournament Challenge Winner Sponsor: Purified Air Conditioning, Inc.; Putting Contest and Longest Drive Sponsor: Bayshore Animal Hospital and Lisa Neuman, DVM; Closest to the Pin Hole Sponsors: Nature's Blueprint of Southwest Florida and Cadillac Quality Vending; Hole Sponsors: Jackie Pinson and NY Vinny "Hound Power," Frank's Roofing & Spraying, Inc. (sponsoring two holes!), and Nauti Parrot Tiki Hut. Special thank you to special donations from Tom Super with Nature's Blueprint, Bob Hetzel and Don Lacy with Cadillac Quality Vending, Robert Neeld, Joe LaDuca, Fran and Eddie Reiche, Public at Verandah, Patty Walker with ReMax and Country Heating and Cooling, Dick Marker. Tom Capone and Kelli Addison gave up their Saturday to come out and help the greyhounds by volunteering to work the Putting Contest (which Freeway's Daddy won - a hole in one!). And Vic Elsey for stepping in and helping to host our Raffle. Also, Janet Morash for promoting Freeway's Challenge within River Hall Community. And a special thank you (which never seemed to quite enough), to my dear friend, Joyce, and her husband, Terry Moore, for all your hard work putting this event together with sponsorships and donations, especially the golf packages for the Raffle.
Relying on our sponsors to help make Freeway's Challenge a success, I would like to thank our sponsors for their continued support and donations: 3 Fishermen Seafood Restaurant, Alva Country Diner, The Belt Store, Bert's Bar and Grill, Brooks Restaurant and Lounge, Bruce Todd Salon, Bubba's Road House and Saloon, Copperhead Golf & Country Club, Cross Creek Country Club, Dairy Queen, Eagle Ridge Golf Club, Island Seafood Market, Lumpy's, Rib City, River Hall Country Club, Verandah ClubVictory Lane Cafe (See event Sponsors in our Menu for more information and a link to the web sites), and our NEW sponsors Alden Pines Country Club, Alico Family Golf, Ford's Garage, Gulfshore Grill & The Cottage, Lani Kai Island Resort, Mel's Diner, Pelican's Nest Golf Club at Pelican Landing, Ruth Chris' Steak House, Silver Sands Villas, Smuggler's Cove Adventure Golf, Sun Harvest Citrus, Sun Splash Family Waterpark and Ulta.
as the golfers began the 18th hole tournament.
Special thanks for supporting our event goes to Tournament Challenge Winner Sponsor: Purified Air Conditioning, Inc.; Putting Contest and Longest Drive Sponsor: Bayshore Animal Hospital and Lisa Neuman, DVM; Closest to the Pin Hole Sponsors: Nature's Blueprint of Southwest Florida and Cadillac Quality Vending; Hole Sponsors: Jackie Pinson and NY Vinny "Hound Power," Frank's Roofing & Spraying, Inc. (sponsoring two holes!), and Nauti Parrot Tiki Hut. Special thank you to special donations from Tom Super with Nature's Blueprint, Bob Hetzel and Don Lacy with Cadillac Quality Vending, Robert Neeld, Joe LaDuca, Fran and Eddie Reiche, Public at Verandah, Patty Walker with ReMax and Country Heating and Cooling, Dick Marker. Tom Capone and Kelli Addison gave up their Saturday to come out and help the greyhounds by volunteering to work the Putting Contest (which Freeway's Daddy won - a hole in one!). And Vic Elsey for stepping in and helping to host our Raffle. Also, Janet Morash for promoting Freeway's Challenge within River Hall Community. And a special thank you (which never seemed to quite enough), to my dear friend, Joyce, and her husband, Terry Moore, for all your hard work putting this event together with sponsorships and donations, especially the golf packages for the Raffle.
Relying on our sponsors to help make Freeway's Challenge a success, I would like to thank our sponsors for their continued support and donations: 3 Fishermen Seafood Restaurant, Alva Country Diner, The Belt Store, Bert's Bar and Grill, Brooks Restaurant and Lounge, Bruce Todd Salon, Bubba's Road House and Saloon, Copperhead Golf & Country Club, Cross Creek Country Club, Dairy Queen, Eagle Ridge Golf Club, Island Seafood Market, Lumpy's, Rib City, River Hall Country Club, Verandah ClubVictory Lane Cafe (See event Sponsors in our Menu for more information and a link to the web sites), and our NEW sponsors Alden Pines Country Club, Alico Family Golf, Ford's Garage, Gulfshore Grill & The Cottage, Lani Kai Island Resort, Mel's Diner, Pelican's Nest Golf Club at Pelican Landing, Ruth Chris' Steak House, Silver Sands Villas, Smuggler's Cove Adventure Golf, Sun Harvest Citrus, Sun Splash Family Waterpark and Ulta.

February 4th our very own Jackie Pinson and the famous NY Vinny became official Registered Therapy Dog Team with Pet Partners! Roooo Vinny and Jackie are also involved in a Reading Program with children. Vinny is quite the 'visual aid.'
Jackie is an Executive Fundraising Coordinator
with Freeway's Greyt Escape, Inc.
Jackie is an Executive Fundraising Coordinator
with Freeway's Greyt Escape, Inc.
Thanks to Freedom Greyhound Rescue of Aurora for this great photo! Welcome 2017!
2016 has been a great year!
Take a look at all the past entries in our 2016 Diary...
Rescued...

By the end of the 2016 year, Freeway’s Greyt Escape, Inc. has helped 20 greyhounds receive the emergency medical attention with financial assistance to their rescuers. The end of 2015, Rennie needed some medical attention for a bad bo-bo that needed some stitches and some TLC to make it ‘all better’. Freeway’s foundation was glad to be able to help. Run Rennie Run!! And, he does, enjoying the life of a snow-bird, loving life between Florida and Ohio with his furever family.

In January, Lily’s broken leg retired her from racing. With a severe break, her leg required an external fixator. With lots of TLC from her rescuers, Lily is loved and still cared for by her rescuers and is looking for her furever home.

About the same time as Lily retired, Maggie was rescued, requiring emergency medical attention and Freeway’s foundation was glad to be there to help. Maggie had other health issues and even with all the love and care surrounding her, her heart stopped - Maggie crossed the Rainbow Bridge in the Spring. Rest in Peace sweet Maggie girl.
Ghost was anything but invisible. Rescued in February this sweet gal recovered from her broken leg, also requiring an external fixator, followed with lots of care, therapy and LOVE. She is now living in a loving foster home and looking for her special furever home and human family.
Freya's fracture her leg in March, resulted in an external fixator, many weeks of TLC and lots of LOVE from her rescuers. Look at Freya run now!! In her own back yard!
Barcelona, like Freeway, kept some of her story to herself. In April she underwent extensive surgery to fix her broken leg. Adopted in December, Barcelona, now knows as Ramona, has recovered perfectly, living in California and is now Racing the Wind beside her ‘brother’, a 7 year old grey.
Ghost was anything but invisible. Rescued in February this sweet gal recovered from her broken leg, also requiring an external fixator, followed with lots of care, therapy and LOVE. She is now living in a loving foster home and looking for her special furever home and human family.
Freya's fracture her leg in March, resulted in an external fixator, many weeks of TLC and lots of LOVE from her rescuers. Look at Freya run now!! In her own back yard!
Barcelona, like Freeway, kept some of her story to herself. In April she underwent extensive surgery to fix her broken leg. Adopted in December, Barcelona, now knows as Ramona, has recovered perfectly, living in California and is now Racing the Wind beside her ‘brother’, a 7 year old grey.
Also in April, Rick needed emergency surgery and medical attention. He responded well to treatment and therapy and is now as good as new! Rick was adopted in October and is loved and spoiled in his furever home. In July, Hunter needed some extra financial assistance to help with her broken leg. Thank God the surgeons were amazing and amputation was not necessary. Freeway's Foundation was able to help get her on her feet again. She has been adopted and is a real southern gal living in South Carolina. Mickey, loved by all from the moment he was rescued, needed some extra TLC. Breaking his leg in July his recovery was long and intense, but he made it just fine. Run Mickey, Run! Mickey would love his own back yard and is patiently waiting for the perfect human family to adopt him. |
Our “John Doe” also needed some financial assistance in July, suffering from an injury while racing, resulting in an external fixator. He has since fully recovered, and still resides in the kennel of his rescuers. He is patiently waiting on his new family to rescue him for the last time.
After a seemingly quite period (thank God!), in November we were asked to help Expert, having broken his leg in four places. Expert loved to pose for his photo! And he is ready/set/go for adoption. |
2016 Memorable Moments

By year end of 2016, Freeway's Greyt Escape, Inc. was able to help with the emergency medical expenses for ten injured greyhounds. Without the support of our communities, friends, family and animal-loving acquaintances, we would not be able to pursue our mission. With your help, we have given hope to non-profit greyhound rescue and adoption organizations, knowing there is financial assistance when they are notified of an injury. We hope we will always be able to help with these medical expenses and will with the continued support of our sponsors and supporters.
As the year comes to an end and we count our blessings, Freeway's Greyt Escape, Inc. would like to especially thank Joyce Lance, Jackie Pinson and Theresa Floyd for your hard work, devotion and support.
Freeway Benefit Raffle! - December
Jackie Pinson (NY Vinny's and da Princess Toolip's mom) and Canine Pawsitive Touch, Massage and Wellness, teamed up with Elemental Illusions' hand crafted silver jewelry to hold a raffle to benefit Freeway's Greyt Escape, Inc. Setting up for four weekends in Grand Prairie, Texas' Farmer's Market, Canine Pawsitive Touch donated a dog gift Basket, while Elemental Illudions provided a hand crafted silver and sardonyx pendant. Selling Raffle Tickets each week, and with the pledge from an anonymous doner, they raised over $400.00 for Freeway's Greyt Escape, Inc. Thank you Jackie, Jan, Vinny and Princess for all your hard work and efforts to help Freeway's mission. And a BIG ROOOO to that anonymous benefactor!!!
Jackie Pinson (NY Vinny's and da Princess Toolip's mom) and Canine Pawsitive Touch, Massage and Wellness, teamed up with Elemental Illusions' hand crafted silver jewelry to hold a raffle to benefit Freeway's Greyt Escape, Inc. Setting up for four weekends in Grand Prairie, Texas' Farmer's Market, Canine Pawsitive Touch donated a dog gift Basket, while Elemental Illudions provided a hand crafted silver and sardonyx pendant. Selling Raffle Tickets each week, and with the pledge from an anonymous doner, they raised over $400.00 for Freeway's Greyt Escape, Inc. Thank you Jackie, Jan, Vinny and Princess for all your hard work and efforts to help Freeway's mission. And a BIG ROOOO to that anonymous benefactor!!!
Community Yard Sale - November
In November we held our last yard sale of the year in Florida. Our previous two sales were in Ohio, both held inside the garage because of rainy weather….but we were still able to sell enough new and reusable donated treasurers to help pay $1,500.00 toward emergency medical expenses for a greyhound suffering from injuries sustained while running his last race. Freeway's Greyt Escape holds several yard sales during the year. Although we do not accept clothing and furniture, we gladly accept clean resalable items.
And any donation is tax deductible!
And any donation is tax deductible!
Retired Handbags for Retired Greyhounds Event - August
Once again Candlelight Winery in Garrettsville, Ohio, was the perfect host for our 3rd Annual Retired Handbags for Retired Greyhounds. More than 50 women joined us to raise funds for Freeway’s Greyt Escape by silently bidding on over 50 beautiful designer handbags. Along with the Silent Auction of handbags many wonderful items were offered in the Chinese Auction, the
Raffle and our fabulous door prize basket.
A very special thank you to Becky Philpot, Sherry Wise, Delores McCumbers and Rosemarie Torem for volunteering your time to help make this event a huge success. And as always, a big thanks to Amanda
and Alisha for satisfying our hunger and thirst (with their GREYT wines!) and being the perfect hostess, offering Candlelight Winery once again to hold our event.
We are truly grateful and say thank you to our very generous Community sponsors - Art N Flowers, Dairy Queen, Cal’s Restaurant, Miller’s Family Restaurant, Subway, Italian Garden and Candlelight Winery. Jackie Pinson (Canine Pawsitive Touch), Linda Klamer, Denise Ellerhorst, Gloria Santucci Vesper, Gail Dodson, Karen Crandel, Julie Jenkins, Lynn Piper, Stephanie Kristoff, Monia Miller, Hartville Collectibles Brighton Store, Kailin Gray (human), Sparky Pope, Linda Henson, Sue Hanson - with your funding and donation of beautiful new and gently used designer handbags, this fund raiser was a GREYT success!
Together we have made a difference in the life of a greyhound.
The 4th Annual Retired Handbags for Retired Greyhounds will take place at Candlelight Winery on Wednesday August 30th, 2017, with registration beginning at 6:00 PM. Silent Auction will close approximately 8:15 PM. A Raffle will take place throughout the evening.
Hope to see all of you there again. Diana
Raffle and our fabulous door prize basket.
A very special thank you to Becky Philpot, Sherry Wise, Delores McCumbers and Rosemarie Torem for volunteering your time to help make this event a huge success. And as always, a big thanks to Amanda
and Alisha for satisfying our hunger and thirst (with their GREYT wines!) and being the perfect hostess, offering Candlelight Winery once again to hold our event.
We are truly grateful and say thank you to our very generous Community sponsors - Art N Flowers, Dairy Queen, Cal’s Restaurant, Miller’s Family Restaurant, Subway, Italian Garden and Candlelight Winery. Jackie Pinson (Canine Pawsitive Touch), Linda Klamer, Denise Ellerhorst, Gloria Santucci Vesper, Gail Dodson, Karen Crandel, Julie Jenkins, Lynn Piper, Stephanie Kristoff, Monia Miller, Hartville Collectibles Brighton Store, Kailin Gray (human), Sparky Pope, Linda Henson, Sue Hanson - with your funding and donation of beautiful new and gently used designer handbags, this fund raiser was a GREYT success!
Together we have made a difference in the life of a greyhound.
The 4th Annual Retired Handbags for Retired Greyhounds will take place at Candlelight Winery on Wednesday August 30th, 2017, with registration beginning at 6:00 PM. Silent Auction will close approximately 8:15 PM. A Raffle will take place throughout the evening.
Hope to see all of you there again. Diana
The Greyt Smokey Mountains - June
With our new RV and four dogs, Tom and I headed to Greyhound Friends of North Carolina Mountain Hounds in the Greyt Smoky Mountains! First night on the road we camped near Macon, Georgia, and Jackie Brantley came for a visit. She brought rain with her….a down pour that created a 'river' around our RV! Next morning, bright and early, headed toward Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Wish we could have stayed for the entire event, but circumstances forced us to continue our journey to Ohio.
June 1 - 4, 2017 Next Mountain Hounds. Visit www.gfncmountainhounds.com for more information.
With our new RV and four dogs, Tom and I headed to Greyhound Friends of North Carolina Mountain Hounds in the Greyt Smoky Mountains! First night on the road we camped near Macon, Georgia, and Jackie Brantley came for a visit. She brought rain with her….a down pour that created a 'river' around our RV! Next morning, bright and early, headed toward Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Wish we could have stayed for the entire event, but circumstances forced us to continue our journey to Ohio.
June 1 - 4, 2017 Next Mountain Hounds. Visit www.gfncmountainhounds.com for more information.
The best little event you'll ever attend!
3rd Annual Freeway's Fairway Challenge Golf Event - May
May 7, 2016 Freeway’s 3rd Annual Freeway’s Fairway Challenge was held at River Hall Country Club in Fort Myers, FL. Being our first year at River Hall our participants loved the course, the luncheon was fabulous and the weather could not have been better. Our shotgun start sent 30+ golfers off to play 18 holes of fabulous golf. Pulled BBQ and roasted chicken and all the sides (along with a few cocktails) were waiting on all these “winners”. As you can see from the
sponsors and prizes below, just about everyone went home with something!
Although we did not fill the course this year with golfers, those who attended had a GREYT time, promised to return to play next year (on April 29th 2017, at River Hall) and took home many awesome awards and Raffle prizes and great memories and that feel-good-feeling that THEY MADE A DIFFERENCE.
Special thank you to our sponsors who have supported Freeway’s Fairway Challenge annually including, Dr. Lisa Neuman, D.V.M., Bayshore Animal Hospital, Cadillac Quality Vending, Brooks Restaurant & Lounge, Route 80 Storage, LLC, Terry Moore & Moore’s General Maintenance Services, LLC, Nature’s Blueprint of Southwest Florida, LLC, Frank’s Roofing & Spraying, Inc., Artist Nancy Colby, Nauti Parrot Tiki Hut, Inc. and Pizza D-Lux.
Your support has made it possible to make this fundraiser happen.
And of course, the volunteers who give their time and energy to make this event happen…
special heart-thanks to Joyce Layne and her husband, Terry, and my husband Tom.
Our Raffle Sponsors include (in alphabetical order):
Alva Diner
Belt Store, The
Bert’s Bar & Grill
Bert’s Pine Bay Gallery
Bruce Todd Salon
Bubba’s Roadhouse & Saloon
Dairy Queen
Eastwood Golf Course
Hogbody’s
Island Seafood Market
Key West Express
Los Cabos Cantina
Nancy Colby, Artist
Nauti Parrot Tiki Hut
Pet Supermarket
Pizza D-Lux
Three Fishermen Waterfront
Victory Lane
And our Golf Package sponsors, gifting golf for four and carts:
Copperhead Golf
Cross Creek Golf
El Rio Golf
Mirror Lakes Golf Club
River Hall Country Club
Verandah Golf
WCI - Raptor Golf
And plenty of Gift Certificates from local business, including Amazon,Bass Pro Shop, Buffalo
Wild Wings, Carrabbas, Cracker Barrel, Dunkin Donuts, I-Tunes, Pier 1, Starbucks and Target.
sponsors and prizes below, just about everyone went home with something!
Although we did not fill the course this year with golfers, those who attended had a GREYT time, promised to return to play next year (on April 29th 2017, at River Hall) and took home many awesome awards and Raffle prizes and great memories and that feel-good-feeling that THEY MADE A DIFFERENCE.
Special thank you to our sponsors who have supported Freeway’s Fairway Challenge annually including, Dr. Lisa Neuman, D.V.M., Bayshore Animal Hospital, Cadillac Quality Vending, Brooks Restaurant & Lounge, Route 80 Storage, LLC, Terry Moore & Moore’s General Maintenance Services, LLC, Nature’s Blueprint of Southwest Florida, LLC, Frank’s Roofing & Spraying, Inc., Artist Nancy Colby, Nauti Parrot Tiki Hut, Inc. and Pizza D-Lux.
Your support has made it possible to make this fundraiser happen.
And of course, the volunteers who give their time and energy to make this event happen…
special heart-thanks to Joyce Layne and her husband, Terry, and my husband Tom.
Our Raffle Sponsors include (in alphabetical order):
Alva Diner
Belt Store, The
Bert’s Bar & Grill
Bert’s Pine Bay Gallery
Bruce Todd Salon
Bubba’s Roadhouse & Saloon
Dairy Queen
Eastwood Golf Course
Hogbody’s
Island Seafood Market
Key West Express
Los Cabos Cantina
Nancy Colby, Artist
Nauti Parrot Tiki Hut
Pet Supermarket
Pizza D-Lux
Three Fishermen Waterfront
Victory Lane
And our Golf Package sponsors, gifting golf for four and carts:
Copperhead Golf
Cross Creek Golf
El Rio Golf
Mirror Lakes Golf Club
River Hall Country Club
Verandah Golf
WCI - Raptor Golf
And plenty of Gift Certificates from local business, including Amazon,Bass Pro Shop, Buffalo
Wild Wings, Carrabbas, Cracker Barrel, Dunkin Donuts, I-Tunes, Pier 1, Starbucks and Target.
April 18th Freeway celebrated his 6th Birthday! He was thrilled! Abby was more thrilled!
Sandy Paws 2016 - Fun in the Sun! - March
In March, once again Abby and Freeway packed their bags and we headed off for Sandy Paws Fun N the Sun, only this year Joyce could not make the trip. We met up with Jackie Brandley and Lady Diana for an absolutely beautiful weekend on the beach. We always enjoy our time on Jekyll Island and this year was no exception. So many wonderful greyhound friends - human and canine, and lots to see and do. While Freeway and Abby slept, Diana (canine) ran the beach!
"Hero Dog" - March
American Humane Association's search for the next American Hero Dog selected Freeway's essay for entry into the competition. Freeway, in "Emerging Hero" category, selected Pets for Patriots as our Charity Partner. Voting every day for six weeks, the votes were coming in strong as a result of our Facebook friends. Even doing our best, we did not have enough votes to continue in the 2016 American Hero Dog Award competition. Maybe next year we will pursue being Charity Partner! (The winner of American Hero Dog Award was actually from the Emerging Hero category, having also selected Pets for Patriots as their Charity Partner. The Award was aired on Hallmark Channel in October.) A BIG thank you to all of you for supporting Freeway and voting every day!
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2015 has been a great year!
Take a look at all the past entries in our 2015 Diary...
Another year comes to an end tonight. Time sure has a way of speeding up now!
I examined my Christmas card list this year before printing labels. Some names were removed because we have lost touch with old friends and acquaintances; some of our friends have left this life for the next; some friendships have ended. And the list had names added - new friends we met through the year. To our friends who have been with us with what seems like a lifetime, and those friends who we are building new friendships, all sharing our lives, our hopes and dreams, our concerns and opinions (agree or agree not to agree!), our good fortune and our misfortune, good health and bad health, laughter and tears...we wish you small joys, simple goodness and hope renewed and all the things that make a wonderful life. Happy New Year. Love, Diana, Tom, and the fur kids
I examined my Christmas card list this year before printing labels. Some names were removed because we have lost touch with old friends and acquaintances; some of our friends have left this life for the next; some friendships have ended. And the list had names added - new friends we met through the year. To our friends who have been with us with what seems like a lifetime, and those friends who we are building new friendships, all sharing our lives, our hopes and dreams, our concerns and opinions (agree or agree not to agree!), our good fortune and our misfortune, good health and bad health, laughter and tears...we wish you small joys, simple goodness and hope renewed and all the things that make a wonderful life. Happy New Year. Love, Diana, Tom, and the fur kids
Angel Award Winner and Jekyll Island
Once again, Joyce and I headed off to Jekyll Island with Freeway and Abby to take part in a greyt weekend of greyhounds and their families at Sandy-Paws. Always a lot of fun, and always meeting new people and their sight hounds, along with reconnecting with past acquaintances and friends. An old ‘greyhound’ friend, Jacky Brandley shared much of the weekend with her Diana and (one-eye) Peggy Sue.
I was quite surprised to receive the Guardian Angel award even though I knew several people had nominated Freeway’s Greyt Escape, Inc. Each and every person was deserving of the award, showing devotion, dedication, sacrifice and lots of loving care for this wonderful breed. Thank you Greyhound Guardians and Sandy Paws. I am so honored.
I was quite surprised to receive the Guardian Angel award even though I knew several people had nominated Freeway’s Greyt Escape, Inc. Each and every person was deserving of the award, showing devotion, dedication, sacrifice and lots of loving care for this wonderful breed. Thank you Greyhound Guardians and Sandy Paws. I am so honored.
Abby as a Mermaid
Blow Me Down…Freeway as a Pirate
Without the greyhounds, Joyce and I went to Gulf Breeze (Pensacola), Florida to attend Greyhound Pets of America, Emerald Coast annual fund raiser, Red, White and Rooo. Meeting lots of wonderful people dedicated to GPAEC, and seeing some familiar faces (pups and humans), we had a greyt time. Since our fund raising event is in October, right here at the Quality Inn in Gulf Breeze, we made ouselves familiar with the surrounds and began making plans for Freeway's Rooo Rally. Nancy and her fur kids joined us for the weekend. |
Beef O'Bradys of Veranda in Fort Myers, helped raise funds with a special menu during its Tractor Pull. Bay Area Greyhound Adoption, Fort Myers greyhounds, came out to support Freeway's Greyt Escape, Inc. Many people were interested in the greyhounds and showed their support by purchasing the meal specials. Thank you Robert and Beef O'Brady's. |
Golf at Magnolia Landing
A beautiful, blue-sky Saturday morning in Florida made way for our first Golf at Magnolia Landing. Forty golfers registered early, anxious to play the course. With men’s and women’s longest drive and closest to the pin, and of course a putting contest, Freeway’s supporters played for greyt awards and a raffle with over 35 items, including eleven Foursomes’ at neighboring courses. And of course, the fabulous lunch provided by Magnolia Landing.
Many, Many thanks to all of our sponsors and golfers. Your support of our mission to help injured greyhounds allows us to continue to make a difference. Together we MADE A DIFFERENCE in the lives of three greyhounds!
Next year our golf scramble will be at Riverside Golf & Country Club off Palm Beach Boulevard, on May 7th, 2016. Start planning your foursome now and share our web page and Facebook page with your friends and golfing buddies.
A beautiful, blue-sky Saturday morning in Florida made way for our first Golf at Magnolia Landing. Forty golfers registered early, anxious to play the course. With men’s and women’s longest drive and closest to the pin, and of course a putting contest, Freeway’s supporters played for greyt awards and a raffle with over 35 items, including eleven Foursomes’ at neighboring courses. And of course, the fabulous lunch provided by Magnolia Landing.
Many, Many thanks to all of our sponsors and golfers. Your support of our mission to help injured greyhounds allows us to continue to make a difference. Together we MADE A DIFFERENCE in the lives of three greyhounds!
Next year our golf scramble will be at Riverside Golf & Country Club off Palm Beach Boulevard, on May 7th, 2016. Start planning your foursome now and share our web page and Facebook page with your friends and golfing buddies.
Immediately following the golf scramble we were off to participate in Garrettsville Community Yard Sale. All the items in our sale have been donated to Freeway’s Greyt Escape, Inc. and 100% of the donated funds goes to the dogs! Thank you Rhetta and Billy Burkett for donating so many boxes of antiques and collectibles.
Freedom Greyhound Rescue of Aurora visited on Sunday with 3 of their greyhounds, attracting lots of attention from the street. And Freeway was so very happy to see his greyhound brothers - lots of waggin’ tails!
All the left over yard sale items were packed in the garage for the August Benefit Yard Sale.
Freedom Greyhound Rescue of Aurora visited on Sunday with 3 of their greyhounds, attracting lots of attention from the street. And Freeway was so very happy to see his greyhound brothers - lots of waggin’ tails!
All the left over yard sale items were packed in the garage for the August Benefit Yard Sale.

This is Nita. During her race the first of May she fell and suffered a bad compound fracture of her back leg. In order to save her leg, the surgeon attached an external fixate, putting a pin down the center of the tibia. She is on the mend and dearly nursed by Nurse Robin.
Nita's surgical expenses exceeded what we were able to pay….Freeway's Greyt Escape, Inc. can assist with emergency medical expenses up to $1,500.00. Once the word got out about Nita and her broken leg, more donations were received to pay her medical expenses! Thank you so much for your donations, love and concerns and your prayers.
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Nita is SMILING!
Shiloh, amputation. Foster mom will never let her go!
A Grapehound Wine Tour in Walkins Glen, NY!
Freeway, Abby, Leona and I took party in Chasing Woodstock during The Grapehound Wine Tour, held July 28 through August 2nd around beautiful Senca Lake, New York. Over 400 greyhounds in attendance and lots of wineries, distilleries and brew pubs. This was a beautiful area, actually ran into greyhounds and their humans we knew from past events, and met a few new friends. Good job, Larry! (Next year I will abide by the speed limits around Walkins Glen - my first speeding ticket!)
Retired Handbags for Retired Greyhounds!
Many summer days were spent going to auctions and yard sales. I had several tables to fill with our New and Gentle Used Designer Handbags for our RETIRED HANDBAGS FOR RETIRED GREYHOUNDS, held at Candlelight Winery for our 2nd annual auction. By the time the auction day arrived, we had accumulated 98 designer handbags!
Seventy-five of the bags were put on our web page for on-line bidding.
With cheese, chocolate, chocolate covered strawberries (compliments of the Miller Ladies), and of course WINE, our auction went overtime auctioning all but two of the handbags. Leona Pliszka, our auctioneer, entertained us as she worked (and drank!) Our hostess, Amanda and Alisha at Garrettsville’s Candlelight Winery, fit
right into the evening’s excitement. We love Candlelight Winery!
Our RETIRED HANDBAGS FOR RETIRED GREYHOUNDS was twice as successful as our first year and the
ladies cannot wait for August 31st, 2016 for our 3rd Annual auction at Candlelight Winery.
Thank you to all the ladies who enjoyed the evening bidding, our auctioneer and my friend, Leona, all the generous donations of beautiful handbags, Hartville Collections, Brighton Store, the greyt hospitality of Amanda and Alisha and my BFF Karen who works hand in hand with me to make this event a success, who I cannot begin to thank enough….You have all helped to make a difference in the life of more than one greyhound! Thank you!
With all the garage sale items surrounding the inside perimeter of Tom’s garage, plus more donated items from around the community, we put up a 20 x 40 tent (no rain will wash us out this year) and loaded it to the max with our items for sale. Hoping to create a community interest, signs were posted to join us in a Benefit Yard Sale to donate a portion of the proceeds to a favorite charity for August 14 -16. Our neighbors, Becky and Bob, gifted Freeway;s Greyt Escape, Inc. with 20% of their yard sale proceeds! Thank you both for your generosity.
Seventy-five of the bags were put on our web page for on-line bidding.
With cheese, chocolate, chocolate covered strawberries (compliments of the Miller Ladies), and of course WINE, our auction went overtime auctioning all but two of the handbags. Leona Pliszka, our auctioneer, entertained us as she worked (and drank!) Our hostess, Amanda and Alisha at Garrettsville’s Candlelight Winery, fit
right into the evening’s excitement. We love Candlelight Winery!
Our RETIRED HANDBAGS FOR RETIRED GREYHOUNDS was twice as successful as our first year and the
ladies cannot wait for August 31st, 2016 for our 3rd Annual auction at Candlelight Winery.
Thank you to all the ladies who enjoyed the evening bidding, our auctioneer and my friend, Leona, all the generous donations of beautiful handbags, Hartville Collections, Brighton Store, the greyt hospitality of Amanda and Alisha and my BFF Karen who works hand in hand with me to make this event a success, who I cannot begin to thank enough….You have all helped to make a difference in the life of more than one greyhound! Thank you!
With all the garage sale items surrounding the inside perimeter of Tom’s garage, plus more donated items from around the community, we put up a 20 x 40 tent (no rain will wash us out this year) and loaded it to the max with our items for sale. Hoping to create a community interest, signs were posted to join us in a Benefit Yard Sale to donate a portion of the proceeds to a favorite charity for August 14 -16. Our neighbors, Becky and Bob, gifted Freeway;s Greyt Escape, Inc. with 20% of their yard sale proceeds! Thank you both for your generosity.
Happy Ending for Joey!
IT'S HISTORY!! Freeway’s FIRST Rooo Rally - ROO’TIN TOOTIN BUCKA’ROO BASH was held in Gulf Breeze (Pensacola) Florida over the October 22-25 weekend. Being our first fund raising party, it was so important that everyone have a GREYT time and I am positive everyone did! With the support from friends and greyhound buddy volunteers, we ate good, partied good, bingo'd and tossed cow pies.
Listening and watching Jackie Pinson show us massage therapy on her Vinnie and Princess; amazed with the information on our grey's anatomy and acupuncture from Dr. Chris Lewis; working on those problem areas with our canine behavior, we learned from Linda Brocker with Bark Busters Dog Training; and our afternnon photo session with For Goodness Sake Pet Photography with Cheryl Casey - all exciting events held in Copper Penny Saloon.
Our vending area, also known as Abby's Mercantile, showed off everything you needed for your greyhound friend - Collars and leads from Lynn Piper and Happy Hound Designs; beautiful wood leash racks from Marlene Irdale with GreytSign13 (sorry you were not able to be at the Rally in person - next one!); beautiful greyhound coats and vests made by Gina Vittetoe with Duds4Buds; Linda & Rick Montgomery with Run With it Embroidery's beautiful shirts (thanks for the cowboy/girl bandanas); Jackie Pinson (not only a canine masseuse) with her beautiful jewelry, Toolip's Treasurer, featuring our Rally one-of-a-kind piece; wonderful canine Pupzelle cookies sent in from Jason Block; and the Rootique hosted by GPA, Emerald Coast, with unique shirts and an array of greyhound gifts.
Freeway's wonderful celebration of life with greyhounds, featuring games, contests, music, good food and lots and lots of fun….all on Florida’s beautiful Gulf was an event to remember, right down to the amazing food from Four Seasons, catering both of our dinners and our sponsor La Brisa, offering us breakfast, lunch and dinner.
'til next time, Happy Tails!
(Click on any photo to enlarge; hover over any photo to read the caption!)

On November 7th, my BFF Sheila and her co-workers at Century 21 Sunbelt Realty #1 in Fort Myers hosted a charity Parking Lot Garage Sale to raise funds for FGE with 100% of the donations going to help the greyhounds. For over a month the agents collected donations for the sale along with sponsorships for their silent auction and 50/50 Raffle.
It was such a hot day for a sale (but no rain!) but so successful! Thank you Sheila!
It was such a hot day for a sale (but no rain!) but so successful! Thank you Sheila!
Happy Endings from Rasta! He has been adopted in time for
Christmas....a real home for the holiday's!
Christmas....a real home for the holiday's!
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Take a look at our past Diary entries for 2014 to see what all we did!
Jekyll Island
Jekyll Island is a beautiful, peaceful piece of paradise and the weekend went by way too fast. The vendors, silent and live auction items (of which we got a few!), seminars, Greyhound Art with Linda Evans
and lots of activities made for a busy, exciting time.
and lots of activities made for a busy, exciting time.
Fun in the Sun

Freeway and Abby set off on an adventure to Sandy Paws Greyhound Event, “Greyt Fun in the Sun” in Jekyll Island, Georgia on March 27th 2014. It was wonderful meeting Nancy Eifert - what an amazing event she put together!
Meet Emerson

Almost a year from inception, Freeway’s Greyt Escape, Inc. was asked to assist Gold Coast Greyhound Adoption, Gainesville chapter with the emergency veterinarian expenses for EMERSON. Emerson had a serious break to his hind leg that required extensive medical attention. Thrilled with the opportunity to help, Freeway’s Greyt Escape, Inc. was able to provide $1,500.00 to help offset Emerson’s medical expenses. Emerson is now our ‘Poster Child”. He will also be the guest of honor at Freeway’s first annual ROOO RALLY to be held in Pensacola, Florida in October 2015 (more on that later!) Emerson continues to improve and has been adopted by Marina and Dave! Emerson made the local news in Gainesville on May 6th. Accompanied by Ann Marie of GCGA, Emerson made his debut!
Meet Kathy
Within a week of Emerson’s surgery, Bay Area Greyhound Adoptions, Inc. in Tampa, Florida requested assistance with emergency medical expenses for KATHY, a female greyhound with a serious break to her front leg. Again, thankful for the opportunity to be able to help, Freeway’s Greyt Escape provided funds to help with the veterinarian’s charges. Kathy is fully recovered and is now being loved and spoiled in her forever home.
Making Plans

Already making plans for the 12th Annual Sandy Paws,
Greyt Fun in the Sun!
Remembering Bill Sharpsteen

Freeway was so very sad :~(( *One of his favorite people, Bill Sharpsteen, crossed the Rainbow Bridge, greeted by thousands of his beloved greyhounds. Gold Coast Greyhound Adotption, Gainesville and Bill were responsible for saving Freeway's life, along with so many other devoted volunteers and rescuers (not to forget the couple who picked Freeway up as he walked along I-75). Bill loved so many greyhounds, and would tell Freeway's story with such pride and enthusiasm over and over again. The following was posted to Facebook following Bill's departure from this life into the next:
They always say a dog is man's best friend, but this week the hounds lost their best friend. It is with deep regret that we inform all of our friends and Gold Coast family members that our group's founder and President Bill Sharpsteen has passed. While we are thankful that he is no longer in pain, we will miss him very deeply. We know that Bill is joined with all of the hounds that have passed on at the rainbow bridge. Although he is absent in body, he will live on with us in spirit for the rest of our days. Bill devoted his life to helping others and has touched thousands of lives (both human and canine) in the time that he was here with us.
They always say a dog is man's best friend, but this week the hounds lost their best friend. It is with deep regret that we inform all of our friends and Gold Coast family members that our group's founder and President Bill Sharpsteen has passed. While we are thankful that he is no longer in pain, we will miss him very deeply. We know that Bill is joined with all of the hounds that have passed on at the rainbow bridge. Although he is absent in body, he will live on with us in spirit for the rest of our days. Bill devoted his life to helping others and has touched thousands of lives (both human and canine) in the time that he was here with us.

His legacy lives on through all of us. Please know that Gold Coast Greyhound Adoptions is not going away. We will not let Bill's life's work fade. We will remain strong and continue passing on the vision that Bill had so selflessly devoted himself to. He would want everyone to know that he is in a better place and is watching us all from above and has been reunited with his father whom he missed dearly. He is smiling because has left this world a better place than it was when he had come into it... They say that every dog has its day, and because of Bill over 5,000 retired racers have been placed into loving forever homes, 386 of which Bill fostered himself.
We are planning a celebration of life memorial gathering to be announced as soon as possible. We will let you know more as soon as arrangements are made.
Blessings,
GCGA team
Rest in Peace, Dear Bill. Roooo
We are planning a celebration of life memorial gathering to be announced as soon as possible. We will let you know more as soon as arrangements are made.
Blessings,
GCGA team
Rest in Peace, Dear Bill. Roooo
Retired Handbags for Retired Greyhounds

On October 2nd, Freeway hosted his first RETIRED HANDBAGS FOR RETIRED GREYHOUNDS, at the Candlelight Winery in Garrettsville. Over 30 gently used designer hand bags were donated to be auctioned to the 30 women attending. The mood was set with the wonderful glass of wine, fine cheeses and gourmet chocolate! Leona Pliszka, Freeway's "Aunt" and auctioned, handled the auction beautifully and enough funds were raised to help another injured greyhound!

Joey was the greyhound benefiting from Candlelight's generous contribution of the Winery and the beautiful surroundings. The Retired Handbags for Retired Greyhounds will be repeated (with the exception of the bags!) August 12, 2015, at Candlelight Winery. Check under Events to see more details. Thank you to Alisha and Amanda at Candlelight Winery, Karen Crandell (my BFF) who not only donated many of the designer bags, but helped throughout the evening (even bidding on a few bags herself!), Leona Pliszka for her wonderful auctioning and all
of our wonderful guests of honor who purchased every single bag!
of our wonderful guests of honor who purchased every single bag!
click any photo to enlarge
Golfing to Success with The Mayor

October 2014
Freeway's Golf Challenge was a HUGE success! We can't wait until next year!
Check out this article from
The Middlefield Post Newspaper
with some of the highlights!
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Fall Benefit Yard Sale
Once we held our first benefit yard sale, we were asked to do it once again. With the weather turning cooler, we sat the items around the inside of the garage. Doesn't matter the weather, Ohio supporters are the best! We had a great crowd and sold lots of donated items to benefit the greyhounds. And like the year before, after our sale we donated several boxes to St. Ambrose for their annual church rummage sale. Guess everyone "wins" |
Rasta, Gypsy and Rochelle
Rasta, Gypsy and Rochelle all needed assistance with track injuries, suffering from broken legs. Thanks to our golfer, few but powerful, we were able to asset with all three by providing financial assistance to the greyhound rescue/adoption organizations that rescued these greyhounds and provided immediate emergency medical attention and surgery. God Bless these wonderful rescuers who devote their lives to helping these greyt animals.
click any photo to enlarge
What a Greyt Summer, Winding Down 2014...

We want to share with you some of our greyt summer adventures and events. Freeway made many guest appearances with other greyhound organizations, helping to raise awareness, adoption, and funding for their charitable organizations.
Freeway's Greyt Escape hosted two benefit YARD SALES held in Ohio - one in the spring, the other in the fall. Contributions and donations were made to FGE, helping to make both sales very
successful, raising the necessary funds to help with their medical expenses.
Freeway's Greyt Escape hosted two benefit YARD SALES held in Ohio - one in the spring, the other in the fall. Contributions and donations were made to FGE, helping to make both sales very
successful, raising the necessary funds to help with their medical expenses.
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Over the Rainbow Bridge
Ohio Bound!

Freeway’s Greyt Escape to OHIO! My furever family took me to Ohio again. I was there briefly last year and remembered how wonderful the weather. I spent a lot of time outside with Callie under the big pine tree. There are lots of squirrels and birds and yes, rabbits! I even saw a deer and her fawn go through the field behind
our fence – she looked a little like me!
Yard Sale!
Freeway’s Greyt Escape hosted a benefit yard sale and raffle this year. My mom and dad spent many weekends going to yard sales and asking for items to be donated to my sale. By September 19th, half the garage was full of boxes, lamps, baskets, toys, books…you name it we had it. Garrettsville community sponsored the sale with gift certificates, donations and gift items. The Raffle was a huge success – congratulations to Mary Kenesky for winning the Grand Door Prize.
So many people came to the sale to meet me and my fellow greyhounds from Freedom Greyhound Rescue of Aurora. It warmed my heart to see supporters reach into their pockets and fill our donation jar! Special thanks to my “Aunt Karen.” The four day event brought in enough money to help save at least two injured racing greyhounds! Rooooo (thank you). |
We want to give a HUGE thank you to our sponsors and supporters of our Yard Sale.
Please be sure to check out our Sponsorship Pages to see who supports our mission!
Abby Rose
Now for more news, I now have another sister, Abby Rose. Gold Coast Greyhound Adoption came to the rescue (once again) and helped to save the life of an abandoned greyhound in Lake City, Florida. My mom and dad adopted her. She is a lot smaller than me, but faster. I was making a very strong attempt to out run her when we collided and I fractured my nose! Just a hairline fracture and it will heal with time. |
Dog Days of Summer
Enough from me - let me hear from you! Share some photos
and interesting stories of your dog days of summer.