Below is a sampling of letters of support for Dr. Tim Reichard. If you would like to share your letter of support, send it by e-mail to: mail@DoctorTim.org. Please note that all e-mails and attachments sent to this address may be posted to this site. If you do NOT want your name included, please state so at the beginning of your e-mail.

All letters are the opinions of their respective authors.

The zoo is a subject on Toledo Talk. One human resource consultant offers a very interesting analysis of the work of fired consultant Scott Warick's tactics. Click here.

Read the letters to the editor in the Toledo Blade:

March 16: Restoring our faith in the zoo

March 13: Let Zoo hear the roar over vet's firing

May 5: Is zoo board trying to hide something?

Received March 15:

Dr. Tim is sorely missed, we need him back. His firing brings to light much bigger managerial issues at the zoo. Unfortunately some of the old laundry must come out in order to expose much of mismanagement at the zoo. No one likes to see the negative aspects of the zoo, but people who feel this way are often those that are not having to experience it first hand. Take heart that what is coming out now is a sacrifice for the bigger picture and is absolutely necessary . We all love the zoo. Support Dr. Tim and his courage to make a stand for the animals.

Received March 16:

I have found Dr. Tim Reichard's performance as chief veterinarian at the zoo to be exemplary. Recent action by the board forcing his removal is unfortunate, unfounded and irresponsible.

I am writing to encourage his reinstatement as quickly as possible. I have concerns for the wellbeing of the animals in his absence.

I have known Dr. Reichard for 12 years. He is the person whom sense of ethics, fairness and determination I want to be instilled within my 3 year old daughter. Dr. Tim will continue to be a positive role model to the northwest Ohio community when he is reinstated to his role as chief vet. at the Toledo Zoo.

In his words, decisions, and actions, I have never had reason to doubt the motivations of Dr. Reichard. While so many of the decisions made within a zoo are based upon personal preferences, egos, politics, and financial considerations, Dr. Reichard is a staunch advocate for examining all decisions in light of their potential to further the zoo’s conservation and animal welfare goals. Dr. Reichard takes this passion further, by encouraging discussion and actively engaging zoo staff with ideas that will contribute to improving the zoo’s capacity to accomplish its mission.

If Dr. Reichard has a fault, it is his inability to be apathetic about the direction of The Toledo Zoo and a vision for its future. Certainly, his job would be much less complicated if he chose only to practice veterinary medicine; but, Dr. Reichard cares. He cares about the animals and their welfare. He cares about the staff and their well being. He cares about the environment, both locally and globally. He cares about wildlife conservation. He cares about The Toledo Zoo. Although this caring may place him in the uncomfortable position of questioning decisions made by other senior zoo staff, he never waivers from his principles. More often than not, Dr. Reichard gives voice to the concerns of large numbers of employees whose concerns have been dismissed, or who do not speak up out of fear of retribution.

I will always count my working and personal relationship with him as one of the greatest opportunities of my life. So long as he continues to challenge his colleagues individually, as a community, and as an institution to strive for excellence in animal care, conservation, and welfare, Dr. Reichard will always have my support.

Received March 17:

Please know that I wish you the best as you work toward reinstatement. I am privileged to be friends with two members of your staff who are among your strongest supporters. It would be unconscionable to permit the executive directors of the zoo to make uninformed management decisions that would be detrimental to every aspect of the excellent care you have provided in the past. Perhaps they should be asked to resign.

Received March 19:

It is a total shame to think of an institution like the Toledo Zoo taking a chance on going from a world class organization down to a third class exhibition in a short amount of time. Voters will not support a third class operation.

Unfortunately the egomaniacs at the top and the “expert outsiders” who are do gooders and bleeding hearts get in to the political fray and stir up the pot.

I was a Zoo volunteer in Cincinnati for 15 years and when this happened down there, I got out fast and never returned.

The problem here are inflated egos, heavy politics, and taking advice from outsiders. This coupled with the local “do gooder experts” creates an atmosphere almost impossible to work within. A zoo is only as good as it’s animal care staff.

What is Toledo looking for anyway ?

I feel the wrong person has been handed a reprimand. Reinstate Dr. Tim and put the top dogs on administrative leave while their finances are thoroughly investigated.

DO NOT treat these corrupt public servants in the same manner as Ray Kest. Prosecute!!! I've had my fill of political corruption!

Jerry LaPlante Toledo, Ohio

As a member of the zoo for many years and a science teacher interested in the care of our animals at the Toledo Zoo. I strongly recommend Dr. Tim Reichard to be reinstated .

Instead of trying to hide the problems at the zoo, Dr. Tim was willing to get them out in the open so they would be corrected. This in fact, would make our zoo better still! The board can be proud that they have such a devoted employee who is willing to take a chance of retaliation so that the animals will have better care! Perhaps mistakes have been made but let's not keep making them at the expense of the animals!

Do what is right for Dr. Tim and do what is most beneficial for the animals!

Diane Thompson

Just wanted to say he deserves to be heard and that the zoo gets better each an every year with Tim and his people.

James Morales

My family is new to Toledo having just moved here in August of 2004. I couldn't wait to make a trip to the Toledo Zoo because I had heard so much about it. I was saddened to learn how Dr. Tim was let go after so many years of faithful service to the zoo. Through reading all of the articles and seeing the outpouring of support from those who worked with Dr. Tim it is so obvious to me that the zoo management is totally out of touch with the care of Zoo animals and with the complex care and responsibilities that a Head Veterinarian has. I believe that Doctor Tim's utmost concern is the care and well being of these animals. I wonder if management has ever rolled up their sleeves and followed Dr. Tim and his staff around to see how difficult this work really is Dr. Tim hit a raw nerve when he spoke to the USDA. Sadly I think zoo officials thought the only way they could look good in light of all these problems was to make Dr. Tim look bad. Shameful! I hope the board will see the truth and reinstate Dr. Tim.

Linda Shepler, Toledo, OH

I have had a Membership to the Toledo Zoo, and have purchased bricks for my family and friends. Also donated to The DeVilbiss Tiger Project. If the Doctor Tim matter is not is not resolved, I will no longer be able to support The Toledo Zoo. Hoping to look forward when You are back at the job you love!

Jack Buchhop

Erie, MI

During any job interview, this question is always asked, "are you willing to accept corrective criticism?" Isn't that what Dr. Tim did? Our Zoo management received "corrective criticism" from the USDA but our management chose to ignore it and fire the one person who took the criticism and tried to make changes to help our zoo animals. Reinstate Dr. Tim.

I believe this is the only way the next levy will pass. Toledo and the surrounding areas love our Zoo but they do no like mismanagement. Unfortunately, the only way we have to make the point is to vote NO for the levies. Haven't we been embarrassed enough by this scandal.

I can't believe what has happened to Dr. Tim and our Toledo Zoo. In my opinion the Vet. should have overall responsibility for the care and well being of the animals, and should be able to veto any action which would endanger the animals health or welfare and also the methods that are used to control them. Dr. Tim should be re-instated there should be a committee representing all factions of the zoo (Keepers, Vets, Kitchen, Management etc.) who would meet with this panel that is being organized to study zoo operations.

Having perks such as Volvos only sets management that much farther apart from the rest of the employees, Whom they expect to respect them and work with them. The animals come first! let's keep this one of the best zoo's in the country.

John R Heath

Dear Doctor Tim,

For many years I have supported the zoo, for the animals - not for new gift shops etc., by paying my membership dues (not because I go often) & voting for new zoo levies. I will no longer do that if you are not reinstated.

I have visited zoos all over the world & used my zoo membership card to do it. It was honored at all of the zoos that I visited. They all know of you. I was asked by more than one person at each place about you, apparently you are known & admired. I was able to tell them that you were still working & protecting the animals. I can no longer do that due to the action taken by the zoo board.

How disappointed I am in their lack of true leadership. I thought that we were all there to support the animals not the egos of the board.

I wish you all good things, you are a hard worker & care greatly for the care of your charges. This is all so sad!

Sharyn

Dr.Tim,

I have always loved animals of all kinds much more than humans. They do not have agendas, other than to survive. Humans are greedy for power prestige, and control over things they know nothing about. Someone who protects them is their only chance. For the animals, I thank you. Hope your appeals are successful. The creatures need you.

Best wishes, Christine Oblander,Toledo.

I would like to voice my support for Dr. Tim. I am a small animal veterinarian and am in awe of zoo vets. They work with rare and very expensive animals that must be handled carefully so as not to injure the animals themselves or their care takers. It takes great skill to handle these animals properly--they are so delicate, yet so dangerous at the same time.

I believe Dr. Tim should not only be reinstated, but he should recieve the same salary as those that sit in in the offices that push the pen and paper to run the zoo. I have no doubt that this takes skill too, but they are not putting their life on the line.

I do not understand why for over 20 years, Dr. Tim has received excellent reviews, and then suddenly, he is let go with little warning or chance to correct what the board felt was wrong. It sounds like there are some personal vendettas going on at the zoo. It seems that a great injustice has occurred here-- not only to Dr. Tim, but to the animals at the zoo.

Sincerely,

Jill E. Lloyd D.V.M.

As a friend and old neighbor of Doctor Tim, I think it's a total injustice to the community and to the well-being of the Toledo Zoo, that Tim Reichard was terminated from his job. Tim Reichard is the kind of person, who not only has compassion for the zoo and it's animals, but also for the publuc, who view the animals at the zoo. He encourages young people to get involved at the zoo and to enjoy the learning experience of being around all the exotic animals that the zoo has to offer. When my son was young, Doctor Tim had my son and his daughter go to the zoo and help care and watch as he took care of the animals on Sundays. Doctor Tim relates well to children in our community, he deserves to stay on as the veterinarian at the Toledo Zoo.

From Frank and Peggy Lowrie

ALL OF TOLEDO IS WAITING WITH ANTICIPATION OF YOUR REINSTATEMENT. AS A MEMBER OF THE HEALTH CARE COMMUNITY I CAN ONLY EMPATHIZE WITH YOUR FRUSTRATIONS OF CARE ISSUES AND OTHERS NEGLECT ON ADDRESSING THEM. IT IS SAD THAT IT HAS BECOME A WAY OF LIFE FOR SOME TO IGNORE CARE ISSUES AND BRUSH THINGS UNDER THE CARPET AS OPPOSED TO ACCEPT MISTAKES, FIX THEM AND PROVIDE BETTER CARE IN THE FUTURE. IF OTHERS WOULD ONLY REALIZE THAT IT IS LESS EXPENSIVE AND LESS TIME CONSUMING TO REALIZE ERRORS IMMEDIATELY AND PUT IN PROTOCOLS TO FIX THEM. YOUR DEDICATION AND RISK TAKING SKILLS WITH THE USDA ARE TO BE APPLAUDED AND SHAME ON THE ZOO FOR SACRIFICING ANIMALS IN THE NAME OF POLITICS. THE WRONG PEOPLE CERTAINLY ARE RETAINING THIER POSITIONS. I BELEIVE THEY SHOULD KEEP THE VOLVOS AND PROMPTLY PACK THEM UP AND MOVE ON FOR THE INTEGRITY OF THE ZOO. KATHLEEN GRIMES.

Dr. Tim,

A similar happening occurred with a past Toledo Zoo veterinarian, Dr. Hans O. Ewert. He, took a risk for the benefit of animals. Back in the 1960's he pointed out flaws in animal care and unsafe cages. As a result, things changed, and also for him--he was dismissed.

This, too is unfortunate. I do not know you, but have read enough to realize how regarded you are among the community of the zoo employees. Your knowledge and experience is invaluable.

It isn't likely I will renew my zoo membership; this incident has enlightened me on the zoo in general. Too much fat at the top levels!

With your hoped-for reinstatement, a deserving salary increase is in order.

Marcia

I am not a zoo employee, but on Thursday evening I was on the street with my sign I SUPPORT DR. TIM..... it was sooooooo gratifying to receive from the puplic all the horn toots, thumbs-up.....and even a bigger toot from firetrucks that passed at 2 different times....there will be HELL to pay in this city if Dr. Tim is not reinstated....... come back Dr. Tim......just to let all know I support the Zoo, that is why I support Dr. Tim he has been part of the Zoo for 22 almost 23 years.....who does Bill Denler think built-up that Vet Center to a FIRST CLASS vet center!!!!!!!!! Also when visitors come to the Zoo they do not come to buy trinkets, they come to see the animals and if it were not for all the care the keepers, Dr. Tim do for the animals we would not have one of the top 10 Zoos in the US.

i am not a member of the zoo,but have been thinking about joining! my time is so limited as i am a piano teacher and i want to join something i will enjoy! i am an animal lover as i have a dog! i have talked with friends ,some of whom are vets,and they say your firing is crazy!

i don't know you but i do know you are doing a good job! i find it ridiculous that certain idiot board members want you fired because of lack of management skills!! i think that problem rests with the board!

hopefully this new team will investigate and rid the zoo of certain idiotic board members,get you reinstated and the zoo can carry on!! god bless,joy turner

I am not very good at writing letters, I always vote though. If they want levys passed they need to reinstate doctor TIM. My vote will be for him and against the zoo.

From Your Friends on Graden Road. Glenn & Judy

The 2 committees that they have formed are a joke. Having Mr. Shelbourne as chairman is much like the fox watching the hen house. This whole deal stinks! I hope people will not let it be swept under the carpet. I know that there are people, other than Dr.Tim that are dissatisfied with the way things are run at the zoo.

I also have sent letters to The Blade and Denny Shaffer on WSPD.

I am the Grandfather of 10 Grandchildren and we love taking them to the zoo, many times a year.

Jerry Brock, Holland, Ohio

Dr. Tim is a great asset to the Toledo Zoo. The Collins family in Sylvania is sending their support for his reinstatement. We are big supporters of the zoo and are confident this will end in his favor. Thankyou

Jim and Carol Collins

LET'S SEE HERE, 22 YEARS OF SERVICE WITH OUTSTANDING REVIEWS, IS THERE SOMETHING WRONG WITH THIS PICTURE?SEEMS TO ME THAT THE PROBLEM STEMS FROM SOMEWHERE ELSE! ARE VOLVO'S REALLY NECESSARY FOR THE BIG WIGS TO DRIVE? WHY DO WE HAVE TO PAY FOR THEIR CARS, DOES DR. TIM HAVE ONE?? ALSO, HAS EVERYONE FORGOT ABOUT THE INNOCENT AND UNCARED FOR ANIMALS AT THIS TIME?? HAS EVERYONE AT THE TOP AT THE ZOO FORGOT ABOUT WHY THEY ARE THERE?? THEY ARE THERE FOR THE BEST INTEREST OF THE ANIMALS!!!!!!! WHEN DR. TIM WAS GONE, A BEAR WAS STARVED TO DEATH AND NOT EVEN GIVEN WATER, MAYBE THE PEOPLE AT THE TOP DESERVE THE SAME,TO FEEL HOW THAT INNOCENT ANIMAL FELT!! HEAR, HEAR FOR DR. TIM AND HIS UNDYING LOVE AND CARE FOR THESE HELPLESS ANIMALS !! I HOPE AND PRAY HE IS REINSTATED, BECAUSE HE IS THE REASON ,OBVIOUSLY, WHY THE ZOO HAS DONE SO WELL AND THE ANIMALS ARE ALL HEALTHY AND CARED FOR!! LET OUR ZOO CONTINUE TO BE ONE OF THE BEST IN THE U.S., REINSTATE DR. TIM!!

MARY F. SHAFFER

From the first day I read about Dr. Tim, I had to wonder how, after being employed for so many years, and having all of the favorable performance reviews, there could not be any justifiable reason or reasons to fire him. Poor Management Skills; Come on !! If that were true; whoever was giving him all of the good reviews must have had his/her head in the sand.

Could it be, that perhaps someone higher up might have a relative or very close friend that may expressed a desire to be the "NEW" Vetrinarian at the Zoo, prior to his firing? It's something to think about...

Fitzgerald

Received March 20:

I am disgusted and appalled that the top animal caretaker of the Toledo Zoo for 22 years could be dismissed in such a careless fashion. I think when this whole investigation is over the city should get a vote on some new leadership at the zoo and a complete overhaul of the board of directors. Obviously, they were either too busy or too lazy to do their job and CONVENE when major decisions needed to be made.It would be appropriate and upstanding if an apology would be made to Dr. Reichard and reinstatement of his job. I think it's necessary for the public to feel good about the zoo again and vital for EVERYONE if it's administration can admit they made a terrible mistake and more importantly CORRECT it. This would take COURAGE and INTEGRITY and I hope they have it... if they never had it THIS IS THEIR CHANCE to gain it. I will RESPECT them for admitting error.

It would be refreshing and enlightening if this new "task force" to oversee Dr. Tim's firing could be open to the public and even involve us in a public forum to discuss their findings.

I LOVE the ZOO, I just renewed my membership, and I have full faith that they can admit that they were frivolous in Dr. Reichard's dismissal and reinstate him. I also am thankful that he would even WANT to go back to the Toledo Zoo after this....it's fantastic and I am a grateful Toledoan!

Many Thanks Dr.Tim for your service to Toledo! We are behind you!

Jenny in the Old West End

I would like to state my unqualified support for Dr. Tim Reichard and urge his immediate reinstatement as head veterinarian at The Toledo Zoo. The firing of Dr. Reichard by zoo management was clearly retaliation for his speaking out to the U.S. Department of Agriculture about animal care at the zoo. Dr. Reichard would have been remiss had he not indicated such problems. While zoo management obviously disagrees, zoo employees should be encouraged to speak out, beyond the curators if necessary, whenever decisions regarding animal care do not seem right to them. Who knows, maybe the sloth bear would still be alive had such an open policy been in place when the animal was denied food and water by its curator. Zoo management, not Dr. Reichard, is responsible for poor communication. Had employees not been told they could only go to the curators with animal concerns, perhaps Dr. Reichard would have been informed upon his return to the zoo in 2000 that the sloth bear had been denned without food and water.

It's time to reinstate Dr. Reichard and get back to animal care being the primary consideration at the zoo. Management's power trip needs to end. I'm thinking new management is in order.

Marlene Gaudiello

Toledo, Ohio

March 20, 2005

I believe that the person who should have the final say about the care of animals at the Toledo Zoo is the Head Veterinarian. That person should be Dr. Tim. He had been at the zoo for 22 years! Who better than he, should know what is best for the animals?

Good Luck Dr. Tim & family!

Dear Dr. Tim,

I am sorry to hear of your situation at the zoo. I have always known you to be very caring of both people and animals. I enjoyed knowing you when I lived in Toledo and wish the best to you and your family.

Carolyn Hooper

Dear Dr. Tim:

Please don't give up on your fight to be reinstated. The Zoo membership and animals need you to keep the top officials in line with the care of our precious zoo and mostly extinct animals. There is always a top spoke person to help defend the weak and innocent. Your position gave you the power to be heard, and yet defeated. If the Zoo does not reinstate you, there will be many to pull support for the best top notch zoo. You are in our prayers and I hope your coworkers keep speaking out for you and themselves. If they do this to you, they will do it to anybody. Good Luck, and remember we are with you to help end this needless battle. Replace top management, and lets keep our animals safe.

Dr. Tim,

In hearing of your dismissal, and also having friends who work at the Zoo. I was a bit dismayed in hearing the "reasons " the management gave for your "moving on". First off they said you decided to leave,then they said ...well they let you go because they did not like your managerial skills,...lol . Your a veterinarian,you take care of animals.And very well from what I hear.It all sounds like a well orchestrated railroading,for personal reasons. And if you dont think the animals at the Zoo are being cared for to the best of the zoo's ability ,more power to you for telling someone who will listen and get the changes made that need to be made.The Animals at the zoo are captive, some heading if not endangered in the wild.All these animals need the best care the zoo can give them to ensure their existence,and I think you are the person to do that,you seem to do what is best for the animal,not concerning yourself with whose human toes you step on,and you shouldnt .that is not why they hired you 22 yrs ago.And I wish you all the luck in the world on your reinstatement.

Mary Schoenhofer

Rossford,Ohio

Dear Toledo Residents, Zoo Directors/Board, and Area Residents,

My husband and I have been members of the Toledo Zoo for 32 years and we have been Zoo Pals. We love the Zoo and even before having our son Matt 20 years ago, we have been very frequent visitors of the zoo especially in the winter months when the Zoo because being less visited in the bitter cold has seemed to belong to only us. These visits have always been filled with pleasure, fun, and excitement as the animals have seemed to be particularly animated to see visitors. We have had the habit of talking to Zoo keepers/workers whenever possible to find out the animals’ names which have made us feel more like family with the animals. When accompanying friends to the Zoo, they are amazed by our knowledge of animals’ names and also maybe a few interesting facts about particular animals.

Once our son Matt was born, we visited the Zoo even more frequently since it is such a great family place to experience togetherness while making lasting memories and learning about nature. My husband and I enjoyed telling about our own tales of sitting on the concrete elephant and buffalo when we were kids; we told Matt we kids were tougher back then because “back in the day” there was no cushy material under the concrete animals to protect us if we slipped off! He laughed at the remembrance that “when we were kids” in Wonder Valley, we held the baby bunnies without benefit of a lap blanket. It is too bad that Matt never got to ride on “Gallopy” the giant tortoise as our generation had the privilege. We often buy Zoo Memberships for friends upon the birth of a baby or as a wedding gift.

When our son was close to 1 year old, we took him to the YMCA’s parent/infant swim class and had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Tim and his wife Sue who had their daughter Brynne also enrolled in the class. When my husband Russ was in the locker room showering off Matt, Dr. Tim who was nearby mentioned that they also used the same baby shampoo on the baby gorilla at the Zoo. For the rest of the Swim classes, we thoroughly enjoyed talking with Dr. Tim and have always felt so happy to have this “quality” person at our zoo.

We strongly encourage the Zoo’s Board of Directors and Executive Director(s) to do the “right” course of action for our Zoo which is to reinstate Dr. Tim and to allow him to have direct contact with the Zoo Keepers/animals and to let the pettiness of pride dissipate for the greater good. We have decided that our individual mode of protest will be to display the “Reinstate Dr.Tim” bumper stickers on our cars and if “worse comes to worse”, cancel our Zoo membership and discontinue our practice of buying Zoo memberships for those having babies/getting married.

Sincerely and Hopeful,

Russ and Sue McEwen

Maumee, Ohio

Fellow zoo supporters;

As we stated in an e mail we left on the Zoo's web site, we will only continue to vote for future zoo tax levies provided the firing of Dr. Reichard is resolved to his satisfaction.

Jim and Hilde Kennedy

We just could not stand by and not voice my support for Dr. Tim after reading all the letters of support from many other Lucas County tax paying citizens.

We would firstly like to commend Dr. Tim for not backing down from the Zoo administrations attempts to intimidate him. He has as we all know done an outstanding job at what would be considered a meager wage for a highly experienced Veterinarian and especially when compared to the exorbitant wages of Mr. Dennler and Mr. Harden.

Now lets talk about management abilities.

Mr. Dennler should have been the last person to accuse Dr. Tim of not being able to communicate or manage.

It was obvious to us that Mr. Dennler admitted that he was not capable of managing the Zoo harmoniously when he hired a consultant (or should that be henchman) to intimidate the employees. A candidate for a management position such as the one that Mr. Dennler holds should be well able to fulfill that position without the assistance of a consultant to intervene in employee disciplinary matters.

We also, as expressed by others, feel that the wrong person has been reprimanded. We hope that results of the ongoing investigation will be in Dr. Tim’s favor and perhaps a change of administration is in order. Enough corruption!

We are also Zoo Members and cannot and will not support the current administration.

We would not renew our membership in the highly unlikely event that Dr. Tim is not reinstated with back pay and an apology from the administration.

John & Colleen Ball

Maumee

Received March 21:

Even as far away as Pittsburgh PA, we have heard of the unfair treatment of Dr. Tim Reicherd.

The attacks on his character and professional skills are truly unfounded and appear to be driven by an attempt to drive away an excellent Veterinarian from the Toledo Zoo.

My wife and I have known Dr. Tim since he was a boy and can attest of his character. We know Tim well enough to realize that if anything was amiss in running of the Toledo Zoo, Tim would be the very first person to take a stand and choose to do the right even if it meant harm to him by others who would attempt to bring him down.

If the Toledo Zoo chooses to let Dr. Tim go, then it is a very sad day for the Toledo Zoo. They will have lost in the long run. Dr. Tim will be the winner...no matter what.

Dennis and Penny Johnson

Pittsburgh, PA

ONE DAY YOU ARE MADE THE MOST VALUABLE PLAYER ON THE TEAM..

11 DAYS LATER YOU ARE DEEMED…..WORTHY TO BE KICKED OUT !!!!!

SOME THING IS ROTTEN IN TOLEDO….

After reading through your letters and seeing all the supporters who are considering withholding donations and levy funding...I plead:

Please ask Dr. Tim to publicly dismiss ideas that the voters of Lucas County withhold their Levy funding votes. Have him do it on the radio , TV and the newspaper. This action will not help Dr. Tim or the Zoo. By withholding levy funding only the Zoo and the Animals will suffer.

Thank You

Jim Benner

Former Zoo Employee

I am writing this letter to show my support for Dr. Tim Reichard. I have worked with Dr. Tim at the Toledo Zoo for close to 23 years. Tim is a man of the utmost integrity and compassion. His professionalism and dedication are second to none at the zoo and is shown everyday by the quality of care given to the animals. There is no way Dr. Tim would voluntarily leave his position at the Zoo.

As a keeper in the Mammal Department, I have been involved in numerous medical procedures with Dr. Tim over the years, from small primates, to big cats, polar bears and elephants. Tim is always aware of the situation and looks out for the safety and well being of all involved. Immobilizations of animals always carry a certain amount of risk to both the animal and people involved, but Tim makes sure its kept to an absolute minimum by being well prepared and making sure the keeper staff is as well.

Thru the foresight and determination of Dr. Tim, an enrichment and training program evolved at the zoo, a good 10 years before the hiring of a behavior manager. Tim saw the value of training animals for medical procedures as a way to reduce their stress and further enhance the quality of the care we provide them. He was also an early proponent of enrichment to provide the mental stimulation needed to ensure a better quality of life for our captive friends.

Dr. Tim is also a man who stands by his convictions and does not play games or politics with others. He is honest and respectful in his treatment of others. Tim tells it like it is, it may not be what you want to hear, but it is always consistent with his values. Dr. Tim operates on his principles of conservation, quality animal care, ethics and integrity, which at times conflicts with others at the zoo. You may not always agree with Tim, but you can always discuss your point of view with him. He always listens to your opinion, and right or wrong, never takes a disagreement personal. Tim is the fairest person I know.

For the Toledo Zoo to continue to be rated a first class zoo, the animal care must remain first class and that can only be accomplished if Dr. Tim is the veterinarian.

The Toledo Zoo will in no way benefit by Dr. Tim ever leaving. The quality of animal care will decrease, the professionalism missed, and the loss of such dedicated and caring employee a tragedy. I fully support Tim in all ways and have the utmost respect for him as a person and veterinarian. I can only hope that other zoo managers take lessons from him in how to treat others, stand up for their beliefs and not be hypocritical in their practices.

I hope you will take the time to contact Dr. Tim directly to get his side of the story. I believe after talking with him you will agree with me and work to return Dr. Tim as the zoo’s Sr. Veterinarian.

Sincerely,

David V. Ross

Sr. Keeper-Mammals

How can such things like this happen?

Perhaps the Zoo is getting too big and the ones they now have in charge can't, or don't want to, devote the time it takes to keep things going. Just like all big wigs, they will hire someone else to do there job.

I also have been a member for a long long time, please reinstate Dr. Tim, and take the poltics out of the Zoo.

I wonder if they, the people that fired him, know they are now the laughing stock in the Zoo world---come on just get Dr. Tim back and put all this behind Toledo and The Zoo.

Charlotte Hardy, Fayette, Ohio

Received March 23:

I was a volunteer at the zoo 22 years ago. Dr. Tim Reichard made such an impact on me as a professional that I cannot believe our zoo and city is being compromised by losing him.

Dr. Tim has been crucial and instrumental in the great impact the zoo has had for our region not to mention the animal kingdom during the past two decades.

Toledo, let alone the zoo, cannot afford to lose Dr. Tim. Any Toledoan or Northwest Ohioan who cares about the future of our region needs to look into this and find out for himself or herself the positive impact Dr. Tim has had our beloved area.

Dr. Tim, thank you for your contribution - you are the greatest!

Holly A. Rehner

Delta, Ohio

Received March 25:

Although I have never met [Dr. Tim] personally, I know several people who did work with him and talk very highly of him. I highly respect their opinions, and if he is half the person they say he is then he deserves a lot more than just his position back. It's not only a shame that the zoo fired Dr. Tim, but the way they went about it was very low. The higher ups who made that decision should be hanging there heads in the ground and begging Dr. Tim to Come back!

Wayne Price

Sylvania, Ohio

In reading over all the letters that everyone has written in support of Dr. Tim, it's clear that we all support him because he is working for the animals, not the administration. I think it's important to remember, however, that not renewing Zoo memberships and not voting for levies is going to hurt the *animals* much much more than it will hurt the administration, and the animals need all the help that we can give them more than ever now that their greatest ally is gone. Hopefully the Zoo will recognize its mistake and reinstate Dr. Tim, but, in the meantime, those who really support the Zoo and its animals will be voting FOR the levies, not against them.

Annie Valuska

Toledo, OH

Dr Reichard was fired for his poor management and administrative failings, according to zoo executives. From the Toledo Blade news coverage I conclude that the wrong person was fired – this conclusion is based on the following:

¨ Dennler and Harden are leasing expensive Volvo’s, rather than support their fellow citizens in a town that is known for its Toledo Jeep plant. Only after a public outcry, do they retreat.

¨ Dennler and Harden support the hiring of a divisive consultant who inflames the already tense environment and wastes taxpayer dollars. Only after the Toledo Blade has reporters on their doorstep, do they retreat.

¨ Dennler and Harden retaliate against Dr Tim and fire him when he did his job by speaking openly with the USDA. Dr Tim was forced to speak to the USDA because zoo officials ignored his valid concerns. Further, they not only ignored his concerns, they isolated and shunned him and took away his managerial power. They tried to force him out. Only after a public outcry, do they retreat.

Are these examples of sound management? I think not. The only time they make sound decisions is when forced to by the public. These two, along with HR Director Sherri Caldwell who supported the consultant’s work and is responsible for the hostile environment, should be FIRED. They should all retreat to their arrogant caves where they can hibernate for a very long time. Dr Tim, should be reinstated and given a public apology.

Received March 27:

Dear Supporters of Doctor Tim Reichard,

I know many of the Toledo Zoo BOD members very well. I intend to call, write and lobby these folks to reinstate Dr. Tim. I am presently a ZooEd volunteer,a strong supporter of the zoo (President's Circle, MaskZooRade, ZooToDo, ZooPal, etc.) and very knowledgeable about the zoo operations.

I know that the zoo can find another Executive Director and other top management folks who can lead the zoo but we can not find another Dr. Tim. Dr. Tim is impassioned about the Zoo, the animals, the people (who what is right for the animals) and is a GREAT CONTRIBUTOR to the zoo.

We can find another Executive Director, VP of Operations, Head Curator, etal but, there is only one Dr. Tim. Each and every time I have met Dr. Tim, his agenda is " what is best for the animals and the Toledo Zoo, period.". I understand how the positions and opinions of the Chief Veterinarian could often conflict with those focused on entertainment values and many other non-animal related economic concerns. It is clear to me that the leadership of the Toledo Zoo and Mr. Dennler have been neglect and are not dealing with significant animal health issues.

While I do not know the chain of events, Dr. Tim Reichard has my undying support. While I know he is not perfect, I do know there is no one more dedicated to the Toledo Zoo, the animals' welfare and the health of the Toledo Zoo. We can find others to lead the zoo but no one like Dr. Tim who has the support of the entire medical community, the Zoo Volunteers and many others in the Community.

I will send a check to support Dr. Tim's legal and personal needs during this time. I will withdraw my financial and other significant support for the Toledo Zoo until Dr. Tim is reinstated. I also expect that Bill Dennler and/or Mr. Harden and/or any others not in favor of reinstating Dr. Tim Reichard will be terminated and allowed to find other employment.

The Zoo Board of Directors has handled this poorly and must quickly reinstate Dr. Tim Reichard and rid the Zoo of anyone who is not supportive of Dr. Tim and the animals' welfare, keeper/curator welfare and the health and welfare of the entire zoo. I am understand management did not want to look bad or have their errors exposed, hence fired Dr. Tim so that his persistent voice was stymied.

I know that many other practices of the managementm team will now be exposed to the community. While the Toledo Zoo BOD will stand to fight for these as being necessary to keep good managers, they will detract from community support for the Zoo. The real issue is the Zoo needs Dr. Tim Reichard and the others are expendable. Dr. Tim is a resource and person the Zoo cannot afford to be without.

I have copied the Blade writers above as I planned to write a letter with this message to them as well. I want the Blade to know of another person in the community who supports Dr. Tim Reichard.

Together supporters of Dr. Tim Reichart can make a difference. BEST OF LUCK to you all and Dr. Tim.

Sincerely,

Mark Sockness

ZooEd Volunteer

Strong Supporter of the Zoo

Received March 29:

I may not know Dr. Tim personally, but I am an avid supporter of the zoo, and am proud of the great job Dr. Tim has done over the years. I most assuredly wrote to his superiors and voiced my dismay at their personal agendas, without concern for one of the reasons it is such a special zoo today.(the wonderful caring Dr. Tim has given). I also told them Many people will be watching to see if they can set their personal difference aside and put Dr. Tim back to work where he belongs. I hope he knows he is in many of our prayers.

Mr.&Mrs. Donald Gorsuch----Toledo, Ohio

After 22 years the zoo states that it is letting Dr. Tim go do to "WHAT"??? That was never made clear!!??? I guess that falls under the same "secret" as to why the zoo is leasing vehicles for over $600.00 per month!!

I know Ohio has this stupid "no reason fire" law but I think it's time we changed that right along with the reinstatement of our primary vet!! This firing is a total shame and yet another thing Toledo just doesn't need!

Linda Keier

Received March 30:

Dear Dr. Tim, I was shocked to read about the zoo's decision to fire you for doing your job. I can remember coming to the zoo as a child and bringing my young nieces and nephews when they were little. I became a fan of yours from watching the tv show ZooToday and learned quite a lot from your segments. I could tell you are a caring and devoted animal doctor. Recently, I received a letter from the zoo asking me to become a member. I refuse to become a member until you are reinstated and the management of the Toledo Zoo has been replaced with people who understand how to run such an institution correctly. I realize it is a business, but what is a zoo if there are no animals to visit. It is also a great teaching tool for our future generations. We learn how to save our planet when we learn how to save the endangered species that are quickly being destroyed by man's actions. Our young people need to learn about the animals that live with us on this fragile planet. You are one of the few people that seems to care about the animals entrusted to our care and I know that you will be back to work very soon. If not, then I don't think the zoo has a future in this town. I certainly won't be voting for any more levies if you are not reinstated.

Good Luck,

Catherine White,

Toledo Ohio

Received March 31:

I have been following the zoo problems with much interest and sadness. I wrote a letter to the zoo when I sent my renewal in expressing my concern about the firing of Dr. Tim and the lack of communication within the zoo employees. I received a reply. My husband and I visited the zoo as children and then with our children. Now we take our grandchildren when they are in Toledo.

The problems and deaths of the animals should certainly be put ahead of everything. It seems that the executives and board members have not put the animals first. An excellent veterinarian like Dr. Tim should be reinstated.

Gay Blossom

i just found out about your site for the support of Doctor Tim Reichard today. i am glad that there are others like me out here in the Toledo area, that fell like i do, that Dr. Reichard got a "raw" deal from the Toledo Zoo Board of Directors & current Senior Zoo Management. i feel that we will never know the real story or truth behind Dr. Reichard's termination. i hope that the Zootaskforce review committee, gives us the Zoo supporters & taxpayers of Toledo & Lucas County, a real "unbiased" report of what is wrong with & at the Zoo, and how ?? do we fix the problem there at the Toledo Zoo....

i think maybe it's time for a change in the current Zoo Management & Board of Directors at the Toledo Zoo. why should these people be kept there in their positions to keep perpetuating the current problems that we now have at the Toledo Zoo.

james struble

zoo supporter

toledo, ohio

I’ve had the privilege of knowing Tim for eleven years, including working under him as a veterinary intern for six months in 1994. He has served as a mentor and a friend to myself, as well as many of my zoo veterinarian colleagues, giving many of us our first big break in getting into the highly competitive field of zoo veterinary medicine.

While during my internship in Toledo, I learned a tremendous amount about clinical zoo medicine…it is the intangible lessons I learned from Tim about the approach to being an effective zoo veterinarian that were priceless. I learned that communication up and down a zoological institution’s personnel chain is ESSENTIAL in order for a veterinarian to be effective and for the animals in a collection to be properly cared for. I learned that in order for a clinical zoo veterinarian to be able to care for the thousands of animals in the park, a good vet must rely intensively on the eyes, ears, and experiences of their daily caretakers, the zoo keepers. Direct communications with this part of the zoo staff is absolutely imperative. And I fed off of Tim’s unbridled enthusiasm and idealism and learned that even after 20 years of doing a job that in this profession each day is all but guaranteed to bring something new and exciting.

I strongly encourage the Toledo Zoo board to reconsider Tim’s termination from the institution with all of the facts in hand from the committee.

Chris

Chris Tabaka, DVM

Associate Veterinarian

Detroit Zoological Institute

Received April 1:

KEEP THE FAITH DOCTOR TIM. YOUR TIME WILL COME. SOON YOU WILL HAVE YOUR SAY IN FRONT OF THE ZOO TASKFORCE COMMITTEE. THEN THE REAL STORY CAN BE TOLD & I 'AM SURE THAT YOU WILL BE BACK AT THE TOLEDO ZOO SOON, DOING THE "GOOD & GREAT" WORK THAT YOU ARE WELL KNOWN FOR ALL OVER THE WORLD. WE NEED YOU BACK AT THE TOLEDO ZOO, TO GIVE THE ZOO ANIMALS, THAT SPECIAL CARE & LOVE THAT IS NEEDED. GOOD LUCK..HOPE FOR A QUICK RETURN TO YOUR POST.

JAMES STRUBLE

TOLEDO, OHIO

ZOO SUPPORTER & TAXPAYER

Received April 4:

I guess I am not very certain how to begin my own thoughts of opinion on the current status of the Toledo Zoo. It has always been a very important part of my life from the early fifties on, as well as our family's life all the way back to the early twenties. My father was one of the first to ride Toots the elephant in 1923. He later worked at the zoo's pony ring with most of the Skeldon family including Phil and his brother Ned. Phil, of course, became zoo director following his father Frank Skeldon who I credit along with many other zoo boosters as instrumental in beginning the zoo's progression, along with Phil later on, to the wonderful attraction it has become.

Yes, throughout its 100 year plus history it has had its ups and downs, good and bad. Partly because of direction or economic survival along with a lot we do not know or understand then or now. I, as a brief seasonal employee some 40 years ago appreciated the zoo as the place to learn about animals and meet the public, many of our city leaders and the co-workers I was with each day. Many of the zoo board VIPs would come to visit us during the season to see how we were doing. Any problems were usually of a minor nature and resolved then and there. It was a pleasurable and enjoyable experience to work there.

Times change unfortunately along with people. I observed the environment become regimented and despotic. An egotistical atmosphere appeared that eventually took on a dictatorial air. Drs, PhDs and CEOs were the order of the day. Other zoos, not just Toledo's found this appropriate procedure. Some keepers even adopted this goal of sorts. Phil Skeldon strove to operate a fine, commendable attraction. He overcame some overwhelming obstacles in doing so. He once told me when you have the graces of financial support you can have anything. In this case keeping the zoo open and just that. It seemed impossible at times. Well, things did improve even before Phil Skeldon retired in 1981. We have a fine place to go to now, thanks to Phil!

A fine place to go! Currently in the spotlight and public relations glow all the wrong way--obviously because of a poor move to terminate the zoo's veterinarian Tim Reichard. I fully support his rapid reinstatement as first priority if for no other reason than the sake of animal consideration and care. There is no substitute for this! You do not shortcut with any animals! Dr. Reichard's credentials are beyond any question and for him to lose his job merits a full investigation of the zoo--management, board of directors, keepers, etc.--to clear up any doubts or misgivings of his credibility. Now it is more than just him being dismissed as an issue. The whole zoo is, and that's not bad either. The institution as wonderful as it is deserves a close investigation. This could result in some further proper, just dismissals of current officials for the better! I am in support of whatever it takes, good or bad, to insure the long-term and proper continuance of this institution. Yes, many mistakes are made in all walks of life including a zoo. Some mistakes are irreversible and long lasting! A very serious mistake was the firing of Dr. Reichard. The other mistakes which we continue to be informed of now are currently under the scope as they should be and should have been prior to all the controversy. I hope this has taught a lesson to the people involved. I hope that proper moves and decisions will be made. I also hope that those task force decisions will be well thought out in the priority interest of the animals' welfare, and secondary the continual operation of the zoo facility as a whole. Will it go on another 100 years? It remains to be seen! The people running it are the answer and how the public perceives these people. Just do the right thing, keep your laundry and your nose clean! Do anything else and you are history. People will accept nothing less than impeccable and honest actions. How, for example, committed is the zoo to the health and well being of its animals--do personal fiefdoms, egos and vindictiveness rule instead? How committed is the zoo to the environment when the top echelon never considers driving a hybrid? Why could they not find anyone with zoo and animal experience to fill the managerial spot, with the high salary and perks offered? Why do they pay top salary to an inexperienced development officer who can't bring in money for a capital campaign? The cult of interchangeable managerialism doesn't work in areas of specialized knowledge. Nor does that of giving top positions to personal friends or those of big donors or directors. Instead it is a sure road to disaster.

Just a word on Doctor Tim Reichard. I have known him about twenty years. He is exactly what any facility like the zoo should want in an employee. He is of honorable director status if for no other reason than his credibility! Many will attest to this as you will or are now finding out. He really should be totally considered, if things come to that--as the man to run the zoo operation. The support will be immeasurable!

Tom Henricks

Received April 5:

You see it all over the place. Big wigs and higher ups who have NOT A CLUE of the important job you do, telling you how to do your job -or- how not to do it. Instead of terminating the employment of this fine vet, they should be kissing the ground he walks on for caring for the animals of the zoo and the members of the community who count on the zoo for family entertainment. Maybe if they would close their mouths, open their ears, and put their big EGO aside, they would hear and understand the importance of the imperfections in the zoo operations that Dr. Tim has pointed out.

Until Dr. Tim is reinstated, my family will also join those who will no longer support the zoo membership drive. Dr. Tim, you are in our thoughts and prayers. We wish you well and we wish you strength.

LisaAnne Gregg

Graytown, Ohio

Received April 7:

Hi Tim,

I am wishing you all the best today. I hope that you and others protest the closed meetings as the "closed" nature of the zoo's executive committee has been a major problem at the zoo.

I wrote the task force as the former Curator of Education who was forced to resign highlighting that the zoo's personnel issues are not just a mammal department issue, and that the corporate culture rather than a clear vision for true conservation lies at the heart of the matter.

If my horrific work experience at the zoo can be of any help in illuminating the leadership problems that lead to your being fired I would be happy to testify--and not behind closed doors.

My heart and prayers are with you this day,

Carolyn Chryst, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor

SUNY-Oneonta

Oneonta, NY

Received April 13:

The overall mission of the zoo is supposed to be about the animals and the community, isn't it? Last I checked, the Zoo's own vision and mission statement pointedly reflected that:

Our Vision: To be one of the world’s outstanding zoological institutions.

Our mission is to promote wildlife and its conservation through excellence in animal management, educational programs, and scientific activities while providing our visitors with an enjoyable, recreational, and family-oriented experience.

I have serious reservations about supporting an institution (as a member and as a taxpayer) that treats people who are the embodiment of these statements with disrespect and contempt.

The Toledo Zoo is a world class organization as a direct result of Dr. Tim and the type of people that stand WITH him...not against him.

There is some concern how not renewing memberships or not supporting the zoo levies will hurt the animals and the institution more than Dr. Tim's firing. I believe the administration and board have already made themselves clear on what's more important than animal welfare...blind obedience, saving face and money.

- Blind obedience is not in the best interest of the animals OR one of the community's most treasured institutions.

- Saving face should NOT be an issue. The Administration and Board have breached their fiduciary responsibility to the animals and this community by disregarding the well-being of the animals....PERIOD. They should ALL be replaced with a community-voted panel to allow the COMMUNITY voice to be heard and acted upon from this point forward.

- Money is not the most important thing. People are. If you treat people with respect, allowing for an honest exchange of ideas and concerns, the rest would just seem to fall into place. The more we all embrace that concept, the better place the world would be.

Andrea Martin

Toledo, OH

Zoo Member and Toledo Taxpayer

Received April 16:

I have known Dr. Tim Reichert for nearly two decades. Our daughters went to elementary school together and were good friends. I worked at the zoo for much of the 1990's. Tim has always been a personable, professional and approachable veterinarian. This approachability among "animal folks" was not universal. I thoroughly support him in his effort to be reinstated.

I worked in food service in the Visitor Services department. I was hired to open and run the Carnivore Cafe and after a few years was promoted to manage the rest of the concession areas, which during my tenure could be as many as seventeen locations, large and small. This required a very high level of organization and the management of a seasonal staff of nearly 100 people.

Over the last 25 years the zoo has accomplished much. Facilities have been upgraded in all areas--animal, retail, food service, education, landscaping and more. Unfortunately, the work environment has not also been upgraded.

This is a direct reflection of heavy handed personnel policies and a highly politicized work culture. This unfortunate management style is not limited to the Mammal Department.

Two months after a new manager was hired to supervise my department (and several others) I was told in a meeting that I was "not having fun." Within 48 hours, I was directed to go to MCO and have a physical. I attempted to discuss this with the Director of Human Resources but was not allowed to make an appointment. An assistant in that department told me the director was not available, that I had no choice to go or not and would not tell me what the nature of this physical exam would be. I was scheduled for this physical on the afternoon of the day the "Light Before Christmas" opened that year, which is a very busy day for everyone involved.

When I arrived at MCO, I was given a neurological exam. This test is used for patients with dementia or who have suffered a stroke. I was in my 40's at the time and showed no symptoms that would have prompted such an exam. During the physical I was asked if I knew who the president was and given simple memory tests. The doctor administering the tests told me he had no idea why this particular exam was requested, given my obvious lack of dementia and no evidence of having suffered a stroke.

I took this as a sign that my contributions to the zoo were no longer appreciated. I was VERY lucky and procured a new job within a few weeks. I have been at this new job nearly six years and to my knowlege I have not yet had a stroke or succumbed to dementia. Nor have I provoked my current employer to question my mental capacities. I am keeping up with who the president is, just in case I'm asked again.

I know of several other people who have been dealt with in similar draconian ways, both in Visitor Services and in other departments. I cannot speak for them, but it would be encouraging for a few more people to come forth with their stories.

I continue to support the zoo with membership and in voting for levies. Removing these vital areas of zoo support will only be detrimental to the animals, who are the real innocents in all this controversy. The key will be to encourage the zoo mangement, present and future, to foster a work environment in which pettiness has no place.

Dan Heberling

Toledo Zoo, 1992-1999

The president is G.W. Bush