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Is there any way we can get the Bettermostians' gathered condolences out to Heath's family?
Last edit: We have donated $1,350.13 Australian Dollars to the David Wirrpanda Foundation in Heath's memory, as of April 21, 2008. Thanks so much, Brokies! Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,17551.msg362969.html#msg362969) to see their thank-you note.
Edit: Here is the current plan. We will be sending flowers to the funeral as well as putting a notice in the West Australian expressing our condolences.
The text of the message is here: http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg323534.html#msg323534
To send your contribution via PayPal, go to paypal.com; choose "send money." The account is ****** (Meryl's account).
To send a check, PM Meryl for the address to send it to.
Final Update: 44 PayPal donations totaling $1,503.83. Four via mail totaling $85.00.
Total Contributions = $1,588.83
Total Disbursed for Condolence Ad Expenses = $304.58
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Wouldn't it be great and meaningful to post a page or a half-page condolence from Bettermostians in the AU local paper ?
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This is a very good idea. Do any Aussie's know which paper would be the most appropriate?
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Some of our Australian members may be able to help. Keep in mind Heath's family is now in NYC.
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I think some kind of acknowledgement to the family is a great idea. It could even be a privately sent card or letter. Or maybe a published condolensce in addition to a privately sent card/letter. From our whole community I mean.
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I think this is a great idea. If it were published in an Australian paper, the family and so many others would see it and/or know about it.
If this is done and funds are needed, please send out PMs. I would be more than happy to contribute.
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I definitely feel that our community should express their condolences either publicly and/or privately. This is our chance to truly express how much Heath impacted our lives - particularly in BBM, but also in general.
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I think it's a great idea and would be happy to contribute.
How should we go about organizing this?
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That's a really good idea. You guys are so thoughtful...just had to say that!
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I think it's a great idea and would be happy to contribute.
How should we go about organizing this?
Good question Amanda - should we take a community poll regarding public and/or private condolence? Further, if public, find out what the local media/newspaper is, cost, etc., and if members are willing to contribute, etc. I feel this could become a missed opportunity, but we do have some time to figure out, and how to proceed and organize this. I'm glad to do whatever I can in this regard.
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Hi guys,
Just got back online.... I am so happy to hear the suggestions about how to go about this. The newspaper thing sounds like a great idea. And maybe we can all send cards to one of our Aussie Brokie friends, who can then forward them to Heath's agency in Australia (or did he only have one in the US?).
Mel
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I think it's a great idea and would be happy to contribute.
How should we go about organizing this?
And I'm no good at this stuff. How about checking Google for newspapers. Perhaps from the home town. Then contacting them. I wonder if they would be open to this.
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I'd be glad to participate as well.
I suppose we'd first have to decide what we are going to do..card, newspaper, etc.
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I found this:
www.thewest.com.au/
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I found this:
www.thewest.com.au/
I only found tariffs for classifieds, I think we would need an idea of the prizes for a small ad, right? Or we might have to stick to sending cards to the family through a Brokie in Aussie?
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I found the website, which says you can post condolences to the family:
POST your condolences to Heath Ledger's family here.
To express your sympathy for Heath Ledger's family, please post your condolences in the story comment section below.
http://www.news.com.au/perthnow/story/0,21598,23095560-5008620,00.html
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I only found tariffs for classifieds, I think we would need an idea of the prizes for a small ad, right? Or we might have to stick to sending cards to the family through a Brokie in Aussie?
I'm in contact with a friend from Live Journal who lives and works in Perth. She has offered to put a notice in the paper for us and find out where to send flowers. She is also willing to pay for it and let us reimburse her.
Shall we go ahead with this? Let me know what you think we should say in the notice.
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I'm in contact with a friend from Live Journal who lives and works in Perth. She has offered to put a notice in the paper for us and find out where to send flowers. She is also willing to pay for it and let us reimburse her.
Shall we go ahead with this? Let me know what you think we should say in the notice.
That's wonderful Meryl. It sounds like a really nice way to handle this. Maybe we should get official feedback on this idea from Phillip and Elle, if the gesture is going to be made in the name of BetterMost as a whole.
Who should we designate to write the ad? I know we have some professional/serious writers here... and some great wordsmiths in general.
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Thanks, Amanda. I just PM'd Phillip and Clarissa and asked them to post their thoughts here. Hopefully, we can move on this soon. :)
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I'm in contact with a friend from Live Journal who lives and works in Perth. She has offered to put a notice in the paper for us and find out where to send flowers. She is also willing to pay for it and let us reimburse her.
Shall we go ahead with this? Let me know what you think we should say in the notice.
This is a wonderful idea. I'm just blown away by what this community has created in response to Heath's death. So beautiful. I feel like I'm here only peripherally, but I come and lurk, and I am full of appreciation for everything - for Philip's news updates, and the fact that .. was it Meryl and John? Sorry if I'm getting the names wrong.. went to building and left a card. I keep feeling like I want to 'do something', and then running into all the distance that seems to prevent that, but coming here, where things ARE being done, is amazingly soothing.
{{{{Bettermostians}}}}
And if it comes to pitching in to pay for an ad, I would love to contribute. I'll keep checking back.
xo m.
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I'm in contact with a friend from Live Journal who lives and works in Perth. She has offered to put a notice in the paper for us and find out where to send flowers. She is also willing to pay for it and let us reimburse her.
Shall we go ahead with this? Let me know what you think we should say in the notice.
This is fantastic, Meryl, thank you so much! Great of you to PM Phillip about this. I definitely think we should go ahead with this. I have to make dinner now, but will check back later here... :-*
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I'm in contact with a friend from Live Journal who lives and works in Perth. She has offered to put a notice in the paper for us and find out where to send flowers. She is also willing to pay for it and let us reimburse her.
Shall we go ahead with this? Let me know what you think we should say in the notice.
Yes! Yes please. It's a great idea.
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This is a wonderful idea. I'm just blown away by what this community has created in response to Heath's death. So beautiful. I feel like I'm here only peripherally, but I come and lurk, and I am full of appreciation for everything - for Philip's news updates, and the fact that .. was it Meryl and John? Sorry if I'm getting the names wrong.. went to building and left a card. I keep feeling like I want to 'do something', and then running into all the distance that seems to prevent that, but coming here, where things ARE being done, is amazingly soothing.
{{{{Bettermostians}}}}
And if it comes to pitching in to pay for an ad, I would love to contribute. I'll keep checking back.
xo m.
(((malina)))
Greatidea Wishes and meryl
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(((malina)))
Greatidea Wishes and meryl
{{{{{everybody}}}}}
Have you heard back from Phillip, Meryl?
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Absolutely! This is a spark of good news.
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It's being reported that the DC forum is taking out an ad next week in VARIETY to honer Heath Ledger. I thought this was a nice gesture. I saw it posted on IMDB.com
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GeorgeObliqueStrokeXR40 1 hour ago (Fri Jan 25 2008 12:40:03) Ignore this User | Report Abuse
UPDATED Fri Jan 25 2008 12:45:22
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An ad has been drafted and will be placed in Variety next week to honor Heath Ledger.
To read more about the project click here click here:
http://www.davecullen.com/forum/index.php
Look for the words Variety Ad in blue letters in the upper right and click there.
The Ultimate Brokeback Forum previously raised funds and placed a full page ad thanking the cast and crew for their work on Brokeback Mountain after the March 2006 Academy Awards.
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I think it'd be nice.
Especially in Perth. I don't mean to dis anyone's ideas, but I don't get what putting something in Variety would accomplish. For the Oscar snub, it made sense. But for this? Does Heath's family get home delivery of Variety?
Again, I'm just speaking my initial thoughts, I'm not trying to be disrespectful.
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I think Meryl and Mel's idea is super. Jstephens9 and i have been discussing this kind of
thing and i think that is the best one ive heard mentioned.....Yes yes lets do that....Bettermost and
Respect for Heath
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I think it'd be nice.
Especially in Perth. I don't mean to dis anyone's ideas, but I don't get what putting something in Variety would accomplish. For the Oscar snub, it made sense. But for this? Does Heath's family get home delivery of Variety?
Again, I'm just speaking my initial thoughts, I'm not trying to be disrespectful.
Clarissa, and everyone, respectfully, I agree.
I saw that it cost $4000 to place the ad and they raised the money in 24 hours. That's great and I am glad that they were happy and excited about that. But in my mind, I think that money could have been put to better use. I am sure Heath had charitable causes he supported.
My 2 cents and other folks may disagree with me, and that's fine. If this post is out of line, feel free to delete it, I won't be offended.
L
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leslie,
just wanted to thank you for the perth newspaper link
Bel
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If we come up with whatever this plan is for an obit or whatever in the Australian newspaper, count me in for some $$. But, following on my earlier comment...are there charities that the family is designating for donations? The whole "in lieu of flowers" thing? Do we want to try to contribute in that way?
Now, this may sound really wacky and selfish, but do we just want to raise money to donate to Bettermost? I don't know how many times I have read "Thank God for Bettermost" this week (I have typed it a few times myself). If we were to raise some amount of dollars (the equivalent of what it would cost to pay for an ad) and donate it to the ongoing maintenance of this site, might that be the best way to honor Heath's memory? Just green light thinking here....
L
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leslie,
just wanted to thank you for the perth newspaper link
Bel
This is why I am the "News and Internet Sleuth"....LOL
Glad it was helpful.
L
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If we come up with whatever this plan is for an obit or whatever in the Australian newspaper, count me in for some $$. But, following on my earlier comment...are there charities that the family is designating for donations? The whole "in lieu of flowers" thing? Do we want to try to contribute in that way?
Now, this may sound really wacky and selfish, but do we just want to raise money to donate to Bettermost? I don't know how many times I have read "Thank God for Bettermost" this week (I have typed it a few times myself). If we were to raise some amount of dollars (the equivalent of what it would cost to pay for an ad) and donate it to the ongoing maintenance of this site, might that be the best way to honor Heath's memory? Just green light thinking here....
L
Interesting ideas - it is always a good idea to contribute to Bettermost, our sustaining life force that holds us together as a community. I wonder if there is a more cost effective, yet personalized way of expressing our sympathies to the Ledgers as a group - I do feel as a community we 'should' do something given the enormous impact Heath/BBM had, and still has, on all of us. I feel strongly about this, and regardless of how it is achieved, it should be done in a way that is meaningful and expresses our deepest, heartfelt condolences to the family during this very difficult time.
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Leslie, I like the idea of supporting BetterMost in Heath's honor, but for myself, I think I'll make that contribution as a private expression of my own gratitude for this place. Meanwhile, if anyone finds out whether the family has designated a charity or charities, I'll be glad to contribute to that, too.
Since Heath was a dear friend to all of us, even though he didn't know us personally, I like the idea of sending flowers and condolences, like anyone usually does when a friend or family member passes away.
Here's my suggestion for a notice we could have published in the Perth newspaper. Please offer other suggestions if you have them.
The men and women of bettermost.net
extend our heartfelt condolences to the family
and friends of Heath Ledger. We love and
respect Heath and thank him for the spirit
of positive change he has inspired in our lives.
He will always live in our hearts.
If we can include a picture, I like either of these. Other suggestions?
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/heathbw2-1.jpg)
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/heathwithposter.jpg)
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Here's my suggestion for a notice we could have published in the Perth newspaper. Please offer other suggestions if you have them.
The men and women of bettermost.net
extend our heartfelt condolences to the family
and friends of Heath Ledger. We love and
respect Heath and thank him for the spirit
of positive change he has inspired in our lives.
He will always live in our hearts.
If we can include a picture, I like either of these. Other suggestions?
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/heathbw2-1.jpg)
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/heathwithposter.jpg)
Hi Meryl,
I really like the wording of the text. I especially like the sentence "We love and respect Heath and thank him for the spirit
of positive change he has inspired in our lives." Great job with this.
I prefer the second picture with Ennis in the background, especially given the emphasis of BetterMost as a website.
And, of course, I'd contribute to a charity too.
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Meryl et al., I am fine with everything. Like I said, I was green light thinking. What works for the group is fine with me...count me in...L
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That's beautiful Meryl, you captured the sentiments perfectly. What do you, or anyone else think of personalizing the tribute with photos from some of our gatherings (and a picture of Heath)?
For example, the following montage was spliced from photos on the forum and sent to Rodney when he was sick:
http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,12738.msg259662.html#msg259662
My thought is that it would personalize the tribute - it would reflect that we are real people who really care and are extremely saddened by Heath's passing. I guess one disadvantage is that not every person in our community would be represented.
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I think the wording sounds wonderful, Meryl. Thank you. (I'm in.)
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What Amanda said about what Meryl said. Wonderful wording and the BBM poster in the background.
But here is my thought, and it seems different from anything else I've read so far: To me there is absolutely no hurry with this. The situation we are mourning is not going to change. And Heath's family is in shock, and probably wouldn't even be able to notice that we did this if someone stuck it in front of their noses right now. Someone dynamic and articulate could tell them all about BetterMost and our love for Heath in four part harmony with dancing bears spelling out the name BetterMost with sparklers, and they wouldn't be able to focus or retain it. Plus we don't even know when they are going to be in Perth. What if they are in L.A. or even Sydney when our tribute is published?
So I don't want to shoot down a beautiful idea, not at all, but I do want us to think through the logistics and goal of this, and have the best chance of getting our point across.
Later on could be a very good time to do this. I actually keep thinking about how his birthday will be on April 4th. Maybe then?
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That's beautiful Meryl, you captured the sentiments perfectly. What do you, or anyone else think of personalizing the tribute with photos from some of our gatherings (and a picture of Heath)?
For example, the following montage was spliced from photos on the forum and sent to Rodney when he was sick:
http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,12738.msg259662.html#msg259662
My thought is that it would personalize the tribute - it would reflect that we are real people who really care and are extremely saddened by Heath's passing. I guess one disadvantage is that not every person in our community would be represented.
I like this a lot. I wish I was in one of the pics in the montage. But enough BetterMost beloveds ARE in those pics to make it feel very representative of us.
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Elle, I just wrote a note in the Banner forum asking you to link to this. :)
You may be right about waiting, but I think people will probably be leaving messages in the bereavement section of the Perth paper for the next week or so at least. The family will probably collect the papers and keep them together to read later. However, if we want to send flowers, the time is now to collect money. My friend will be able to find out when the service is and get the flowers over there.
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To me there is absolutely no hurry with this.
This is an excellent point - you're exactly right, there does not need to be a rush to get something to the family. It might be more timely to wait until some of the frenzy has died down. Who knows, the family might not even be able to think about reading cards and tributes from fans and well-wishers right now. In general, sometimes people rush to console others when a loved one has died, and then a few months later, the family is all but forgotten. Not saying this would happen in this case, but perhaps a well-timed and thoughtful tribute would mean more. It's definitely a thought.
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That's beautiful Meryl, you captured the sentiments perfectly. What do you, or anyone else think of personalizing the tribute with photos from some of our gatherings (and a picture of Heath)?
For example, the following montage was spliced from photos on the forum and sent to Rodney when he was sick:
http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,12738.msg259662.html#msg259662
My thought is that it would personalize the tribute - it would reflect that we are real people who really care and are extremely saddened by Heath's passing. I guess one disadvantage is that not every person in our community would be represented.
I wonder if we could e-mail a montage to my friend and have her include it with the flowers? I was thinking if we put a pic in the paper, it would need to be smaller, or am I wrong?
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Count me in. I may be off line-ish for the next few days so I would sincerely appreciate it if someone would send me a PM with the details when we have them.
Thanks buds
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I wonder if we could e-mail a montage to my friend and have her include it with the flowers? I was thinking if we put a pic in the paper, it would need to be smaller, or am I wrong?
No, I think you're correct about keeping the size small, and keeping it simple.
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Count me in.
Meryl, I love your words. There's a reason you are our High Priestess. But I never would have thought you'd have to accomplish such a sad deed. I love your contributions on the Cult thread. To think it started all out of fun... but it somehow grew into more than that over time. And now this :'(
(Sorry to be a little OT here, I'll add my thoughts about details later. I'm having a really bad day today. Worse than yesterday)
:'(
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Count me in.
Meryl, I love your words. There's a reason you are our High Priestess. But I never would have thought you'd have to accomplish such a sad deed. I love your contributions on the Cult thread. To think it started all out of fun... but it somehow grew into more than that over time. And now this :'(
(Sorry to be a little OT here, I'll add my thoughts about details later. I'm having a really bad day today. Worse than yesterday)
:'(
{{{{{CHRISSI}}}}}}
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I like Meryl's idea but also waiting a few days to like Elle said - perhaps for the funeral date or a few daya after? is a good compromise? I'm guessing it'll be about another week.... ?
And (((Chrissi)))
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The men and women of bettermost.net
extend our heartfelt condolences to the family
and friends of Heath Ledger. We love and
respect Heath and thank him for the spirit
of positive change he has inspired in our lives.
He will always live in our hearts.
Meryl, I think that's perfect.
I'll be happy to contribute to this. Sending condolences to the family in a heartfelt, low-key manner feels like the right thing to do. I'd like to contribute, financially that is. I feel somewhat at a loss at coming up with ideas that could improve what has already been suggested here. I'm grateful for the Australian LJ connection.
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The men and women of bettermost.net
extend our heartfelt condolences to the family
and friends of Heath Ledger. We love and
respect Heath and thank him for the spirit
of positive change he has inspired in our lives.
He will always live in our hearts.
That's beautiful, Meryl.
One thing. Should it not be "The men and women of bettermost.net extend their heartfelt condolences?
Thank you.... :-*
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Meryl, I also love what you wrote.
I will contribute to whatever is decided about this. I agree that there is no rush, and they may not see it in the paper if the timing is off. Maybe something to his agency that would be forwarded?
I also like the idea of sending something closer to his birthday. It seems a little bit more like a celebration of his life doing it that way, and his birthday will certainly be a sad time for them, as well. It may seem more important to them in April.
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That's beautiful, Meryl.
One thing. Should it not be "The men and women of bettermost.net extend their heartfelt condolences?
Thank you.... :-*
But then it sounds like it is not us. "Our" is first person plural (we send our condolences) vs. third person (they send their condolences). Probably the most correct form would be "We, the men and women of Bettermost..." but then it sounds like we are writing the Declaration of Independence or something. I think it is okay the way it is.
L
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Here's my suggestion for a notice we could have published in the Perth newspaper. Please offer other suggestions if you have them.
The men and women of bettermost.net
extend our heartfelt condolences to the family
and friends of Heath Ledger. We love and
respect Heath and thank him for the spirit
of positive change he has inspired in our lives.
He will always live in our hearts.
If we can include a picture, I like either of these. Other suggestions?
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/heathbw2-1.jpg)
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/heathwithposter.jpg)
That is beautiful Meryl. A message of thanks for the life of Heath Ledger is very appropriate.
I prefer the second picture.
I'd love to have a picture of the add when is will be published. Getting a copy of the newspaper itself might be a bit difficult. I think it is great that we are doing this in a local newspaper, not an US one.
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You know the more I think about the more I think it would be nice to do this later..although I'd prefer to do it before april - is there any other relevant date coming up that we could do this on?
(oh and second pic for me too).
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You know the more I think about the more I think it would be nice to do this later..although I'd prefer to do it before april - is there any other relevant date coming up that we could do this on?
(oh and second pic for me too).
I think later too. And I think the second pic too, because it ties in with the fact that we are a Brokeback community.
So, what's the idea now? Do we do anything right now or do we wait?
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I would choose to put the add around the time of the private funeral in Perth. I would definitely wait untill we know his family is home with him :'(. Leaving it till later might be kinda 'strange', as if we were afraid it would go unnoticed otherwise. It seems fitting that condolences are sent a the time of the funeral.
Just my thought.
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I would choose to put the add around the time of the private funeral in Perth. I would definitely wait untill we know his family is home with him :'(. Leaving it till later might be kinda 'strange', as if we were afraid it would go unnoticed otherwise. It seems fitting that condolences are sent a the time of the funeral.
Just my thought.
I agree, Fabienne.
L
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I would choose to put the add around the time of the private funeral in Perth. I would definitely wait untill we know his family is home with him :'(. Leaving it till later might be kinda 'strange', as if we were afraid it would go unnoticed otherwise. It seems fitting that condolences are sent a the time of the funeral.
Just my thought.
Maybe both? I don't know, there's something to say for both options.
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What a wonderful idea, I'll contribut in any way I can. If money is an issue there must be ways to send money to the bettermost.net. I strongly support the idea to give some money to some good cause in memory of Heath and bring some flowers to his family. That is better than an ad in the paper. Mayby best to his sister since his parents are divorced....
But whatever you decide I'll support. You know best whats most polite to do in your part of the world..... :)
Berit
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This is a GREAT idea and I will be happy to contribute as well. Thanks for thinking of this.
Just let me know what I can do.
Jack
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What a wonderful idea, I'll contribut in any way I can. If money is an issue there must be ways to send money to the bettermost.net. I strongly support the idea to give some money to some good cause in memory of Heath and bring some flowers to his family. That is better than an ad in the paper. Mayby best to his sister since his parents are divorced....
But whatever you decide I'll support. You know best whats most polite to do in your part of the world..... :)
Berit
I actually like this idea of money for a good cause an flowers to the family too, but then I also like the idea of the ad. Is there a way to do both? Also I love both pictures, but I believe the second one is more fitting for us to use.
Jack
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Thanks, buds, for all your words. :-*
As for waiting til later or writing to the family around his birthday, I have some reservation about it. I feel it's best to be included in the natural wave of condolences as everyone joins in an outpouring of grief and sympathy. I feel sure the family will see the notice. Someone will be looking to save all the notices for them, even if they are too distracted. (Personally, I'm not sure whether writing to them on his birthday might not be more distressing than comforting. We can discuss this as the time draws closer.)
I haven't heard from Phillip yet, but time is of the essence if we're going to have our condolences included. I hope you won't mind if I take the bull by the horns and act on this.
Reading your replies, I think I will go ahead with the text and the second picture and ask my friend to put in the notice in The West Australian around the time of the service in Perth. She can also send flowers with a card. I'm sure we can easily make up the cost of this among us. I'll also ask her to send copies of the actual newspaper; she's already going to send me a special memorial section that is being planned for tomorrow's Perth paper.
If you would like to start contributing to the cost, you can send it to my PayPal account: paypal.com; choose "Send Money"; recipient is [email protected]. I guess you could check either "Goods" or "Services."
I think you should contribute whatever you want to, from $5 on up. If there is money left, we can donate it to a good cause in Heath's memory.
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What a wonderful idea. I love the words you chose, Meryl! I already contributed.
:-*
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This is wonderful, Meryl. Thanks for doing this. A donation is on its way...
L
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Are there other ways to get the money to you than Paypal? I don't have it. Is it easy to register?
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Are there other ways to get the money to you than Paypal? I don't have it. Is it easy to register?
It is easy to register, Mel. Go to paypal.com and follow the instructions to input your credit card information.
You could also send me a money order, but because of the currency difference, I think this is easier. I'll PM you my address in case you want to do the former.
Meryl
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done.
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Done!
That was a bit scary, my first paypal money transfer.... :o
:-*
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I'll send money when I get home, I'm visiting my daugther right now but I'll be returning home tomorrow, sunday. I'll try PayPal, can Snavel do it I can do it.... :)
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Meryl, my contribution is on its way.
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I wish to express thanks to you Meryl for bringing your organizational skills to the table and for gathering these donations...
You can count me in as well...
Hugs,
~M
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Count me in for everything. Wording is great with "our". 2nd picture. Donation on its way. :)
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Done.
Thank you Meryl for organizing this :-*
From Meryl:
As for waiting til later or writing to the family around his birthday, I have some reservation about it. I feel it's best to be included in the natural wave of condolences as everyone joins in an outpouring of grief and sympathy. I feel sure the family will see the notice. Someone will be looking to save all the notices for them, even if they are too distracted. (Personally, I'm not sure whether writing to them on his birthday might not be more distressing than comforting. We can discuss this as the time draws closer.)
Fully agreed.
I already told you how I feel about the text. It's beautiful. I also agree about using the second picture.
Thank you again.
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Friends, you're all the greatest. :-*
Just to keep you in the loop, I've received seven donations so far, averaging $20 each. One thing I should mention is that there is a small fee deducted by PayPal, so you could add one or two dollars to offset this if you'd like.
I don't know what the total cost would be, but I'm guessing maybe in the area of $500, depending on how expensive an ad would be. Will let you know when I hear from my friend.
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I believe the paypal fee is 3%.
L
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I thought Paypall is free, unless you use it for professional payments.
I found this on their site FAQS:
Question : Are Personal accounts really free?
Answer : Yes. There are no fees for consumers to send money funded with their PayPal balance or debit and credit card. Some members will be charged an Expanded Use Fee before they may use their accounts to send money above certain limits.
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Hey Meryl, This is so great!!! I am so glad our community is doing this and thank you so much for making it happen. All of your ideas sound perfect to me.
My donation is on its way to you.
Jack
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Yes, beautiful work you've done, Meryl, organizing this. Also very good, now I know how much to send. I didn't have a clue so I thought I'd ask....now I know....I'll send it when I get home, latest Monday.....I'm always nervous when I'm doing things like this...if it doesn't work I'll PM you....
Thanks again Meryl, you're a sweetheart :-*
Berit
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I thought Paypall is free, unless you use it for professional payments.
I found this on their site FAQS:
Question : Are Personal accounts really free?
Answer : Yes. There are no fees for consumers to send money funded with their PayPal balance or debit and credit card. Some members will be charged an Expanded Use Fee before they may use their accounts to send money above certain limits.
I bolded the key part. Sending money is free, but receiving money not. There's a fee for receiving money.
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I bolded the key part. Sending money is free, but receiving money not. There's a fee for receiving money.
Right. And I think it's 3% on the total amount, so 60 cents on $20; $3 on $100 and so on.
L
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Meryl, Please keep us posted as to the final amount. If it is more than anticipated, I can contribute more.
Thanks.
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Meryl, Please keep us posted as to the final amount. If it is more than anticipated, I can contribute more.
Thanks.
Same here...
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Count me in for everything. Wording is great with "our". 2nd picture. Donation on its way. :)
Same for me! I like the personal nature of using the "our" and I think the second picture with Ennis in the background is very appropriate for BetterMost. It's a nice photo too. Donation is coming....
Thanks so much for taking the lead on this High Priestess! :-*
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Same here...
Same here (although once I get paid at the end of the month)
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Update from my friend in Perth:
Okay, I will organise that. Unfortunately it's now Sunday, and Monday is the Australia Day public holiday, so it looks like the notice won't go in until Wednesday. I don't think that should be too late though, I'm sure his family will be saving all the notices. I've never done one with a photo but I've forwarded your email to my work address. The Sunday Times said the funeral service site/details were still undecided, but we'll see.
Donation update:
Eleven donations totaling just under $300. Several people are sending checks to me. 8)
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Done.
Meryl, Please keep us posted as to the final amount. If it is more than anticipated, I can contribute more.
Please do.
I prefer the second picture, it represents him and us.
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Meryl, Please keep us posted as to the final amount. If it is more than anticipated, I can contribute more.
Thanks.
Same here Meryl......
Jack
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I have just found this thread and would like to say, as an Australian, that I am very moved, indeed, by this beautiful gesture from my BetterMost friends.
I agree with the wording of Meryl's tribute/obituary, verbatim, and would personally prefer that the second pic accompanied it - the one with Ennis in the background.
For the benefit on my non-Oz friends, The West Australian newspaper is a quality, respectable newspaper. It is not a sensationalist tabloid newspaper.
Just one question - On what date will our piece be appearing? I think I read something about it appearing next Tuesday? Would that be wise? Shouldn't it appear on the day of Heath's funeral? Heath's family and loved ones will all be sure to be in Perth on that day, and they will all see it. I appreciate that someone will be designated to collect such items from the newspapers for the family, but it would be nice for it to be posted on the day of the funeral, so that all Heath's friends (Jake, for example) will see it when they are there.
Another couple of questions - How big will our notice be? Whereabouts in the paper will it appear (front / back)? Will it be in colour or B&W? All of these things crank up the price.
I will be sending through my PayPal contribution shortly.
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Just one question - On what date will our piece be appearing? I think I read something about it appearing next Tuesday? Would that be wise? Shouldn't it appear on the day of Heath's funeral? Heath's family and loved ones will all be sure to be in Perth on that day, and they will all see it. I appreciate that someone will be designated to collect such items from the newspapers for the family, but it would be nice for it to be posted on the day of the funeral, so that all Heath's friends (Jake, for example) will see it when they are there.
Another couple of questions - How big will our notice be? Whereabouts in the paper will it appear (front / back)? Will it be in colour or B&W? All of these things crank up the price.
Kerry, thanks for the info and your donation. As far as I know, the earliest the notice can appear is Wednesday. Do you know the actual date of Heath's funeral?
As to where the notice will be and how big, I'm leaving that up to my friend from Perth who is placing it for us. She'll let me know what's going on, possibly Tuesday, when she gets back to work, since Monday is a holiday in Australia.
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Kerry, thanks for the info and your donation. As far as I know, the earliest the notice can appear is Wednesday. Do you know the actual date of Heath's funeral?
As to where the notice will be and how big, I'm leaving that up to my friend from Perth who is placing it for us. She'll let me know what's going on, possibly Tuesday, when she gets back to work, since Monday is a holiday in Australia.
Will we also be sending flowers to the funeral as a group? I would also like to contribute to flowers. If we are sending flowers to the funeral, perhaps the same message could accompany them?
I've not yet heard of a confirmed date for the funeral. I'm relying on BetterMost for all my news. You're the only ones I trust right now.
Let me know if we're sending flowers. I'll add more to my PayPal payment if we are.
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Will we also be sending flowers to the funeral as a group? I would also like to contribute to flowers. If we are sending flowers to the funeral, perhaps the same message could accompany them?
Yes, I've instructed my friend to send a medium-priced flower arrangement with a note saying "With heartfelt condolences, the men and women of bettermost.net." When I know how much that will cost, including the notice in the paper, I'll let you all know. If we need more money, I'm sure we can come up with it.
Update on donations:
13 people have sent money to PayPal, totaling $370. Several people are sending me checks via the mail. :)
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Hello, Meryl!
I've sent my donation.
The written notice is moving, and the second photo is gorgeous.
(Sorry, I've only just now found this thread and this wonderful commemoration tonight. That's the problem with aphasia, which is what I have, and my reading is abominable. It's like having tunnel vision, but it's in the brain rather than the eye. Anyway.)
Brilliant job, Captain Meryl, and all BetterMostians!
xxxx
John
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((((((John))))))
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Yes, I've instructed my friend to send a medium-priced flower arrangement with a note saying "With heartfelt condolences, the men and women of bettermost.net." When I know how much that will cost, including the notice in the paper, I'll let you all know. If we need more money, I'm sure we can come up with it.
Update on donations:
13 people have sent money to PayPal, totaling $370. Several people are sending me checks via the mail. :)
I've just sent through my donation, Meryl.
Interflora, here in Australia, do a beautiful big display of Australian native flowers in a lovely wicker basket for about $100 + $20 delivery. We often send this arrangement where I work for staff birthdays, farewells, etc., and it's always well received. I thought Australian native flowers might be appropriate for our Heath.
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Elle, I just wrote a note in the Banner forum asking you to link to this. :)
You may be right about waiting, but I think people will probably be leaving messages in the bereavement section of the Perth paper for the next week or so at least. The family will probably collect the papers and keep them together to read later. However, if we want to send flowers, the time is now to collect money. My friend will be able to find out when the service is and get the flowers over there.
Even though I'm new to this forum, I think this is a lovely idea. I'm would be more than happy to contribute towards the floral arrangment, and the message in the Perth newspaper. I really like the second pic of Heath with Enis in the background beautifully done.
Roryennis
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((((Meryl)))) back!
Perhaps this is a good point:
Shouldn't it appear on the day of Heath's funeral? Heath's family and loved ones will all be sure to be in Perth on that day, and they will all see it. I appreciate that someone will be designated to collect such items from the newspapers for the family, but it would be nice for it to be posted on the day of the funeral, so that all Heath's friends (Jake, for example) will see it when they are there.
Meryl, maybe your friend in Perth will hear something re the schedule tomorrow or early Monday--if it isn't Monday already!
I'm afraid I don't know what would be best; in New York, for example, private funerals and burials can be, well, private, with a scheduled memorial a few weeks later--
On the other hand, in publishing, one sees printed commemorations (with staid black borders all around) the day after the person's death--
Never mind me. It will be beautiful whatever you all decide!
(Kerry's idea re Australian native flowers is brilliant! I'm curious--what types are they? Thanks!)
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Just sent my contribution via paypal.
Roryennis
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Look--I found one--
Bottle Brush (attractive Australian native shrub)
(http://www.imagesaustralia.com/bottlebrush.jpg)
Seems a bit like Heath--and Ennis!--doesn't it?
Sigh.
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Just a reminder to everyone making contributions: Send them to my account, not the BetterMost account that you see on the right side of the page.
My account is [email protected].
I'm depending on my Perth-based friend to find out the details of the service arrangements, as far as that is possible. She can call around and find out which florists are sending the flowers to the family. Also, she works for a newspaper, though not the one we're putting the notice in. She will know best how to take care of the placement and timing of the notice, I think.
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Just a reminder to everyone making contributions: Send them to my account, not the BetterMost account that you see on the right side of the page.
My account is [email protected].
I'm depending on my Perth-based friend to find out the details of the service arrangements, as far as that is possible. She can call around and find out which florists are sending the flowers to the family. Also, she works for a newspaper, though not the one we're putting the notice in. She will know best how to take care of the placement and timing of the notice, I think.
Awesome, awesome job High Priestess. You're amazing. :-*
I like the idea of the native Australian flowers. Definitely keep us posted about costs.
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Thanks, Amanda! :-*
Look what our own mouk did today! She is based in Alberta now, and today she placed flowers at Campsite #2 (the Dozy Embrace), which is in Spray Valley Provincial Park near Canmore. You can see the Pole Bridge in the background. How beautiful to see them there.
http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,6345.msg324338.html#msg324338
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How beautiful!
(http://www.divshare.com/img/3613126-033.jpg)
(Now I'm crying again--)
xxxxx!
John
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Look--I found one--
Bottle Brush (attractive Australian native shrub)
(http://www.imagesaustralia.com/bottlebrush.jpg)
Seems a bit like Heath--and Ennis!--doesn't it?
Sigh.
Beautiful. :)
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How beautiful!
(http://www.divshare.com/img/3613126-033.jpg)
(Now I'm crying again--)
xxxxx!
John
Awesome and amazing. I wish there was some way to let the wider world know that this beautiful memorial has been started out in Alberta. It's such a beautiful gesture.
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What a beautiful and sweet thing to do for Heath! :)
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Just a reminder to everyone making contributions: Send them to my account, not the BetterMost account that you see on the right side of the page.
My account is [email protected].
I'm depending on my Perth-based friend to find out the details of the service arrangements, as far as that is possible. She can call around and find out which florists are sending the flowers to the family. Also, she works for a newspaper, though not the one we're putting the notice in. She will know best how to take care of the placement and timing of the notice, I think.
You are amazing, Meryl. I will edit my initial post to add the interim score of the donations....
For newbies on this thread: For general information about how we are sending flowers and condolences, go to the very first post of this thread.....
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I just read this entire thread and fast or slow, I like the direction it's goin!
Thank you so much, Meryl, you are truly amazing, High Priestess!! :-*
Got to run to Paypal now.
Pete
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I would like the notice to be as big as possible, and I would be more than happy to donate more if required. I just want to make sure that the Ledger's don't miss our notice-I want them to know how much Heath meant to us, and see the beautiful picture that will accompany the notice.
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John,
I just wanted to say how lovely it is to see you here - Jenny and Meryl have ofcourse given us updates since you took ill back almost 2 years ago, & you have been on yourself intermittently and I know its hard for you to write and read on the computer. I guess thats testament to how much you think of heath and us that you are here just now. I just wanted to say again how good it is to see ya bud. :-*
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I've just sent through my donation, Meryl.
Interflora, here in Australia, do a beautiful big display of Australian native flowers in a lovely wicker basket for about $100 + $20 delivery. We often send this arrangement where I work for staff birthdays, farewells, etc., and it's always well received. I thought Australian native flowers might be appropriate for our Heath.
Oh, that sounds wonderful--but I am sure whatever Meryl & Co. come up with, it will be perfect. It is obvious we have pros on the job! Thank you for all of this...
L
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I was wondering about one thing, Meryl. Are we allowed to use that pic of Heath (I'm thinking of possible copyright) and is it high resolution enough to be printed?
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Maybe if we can't use that pic we can make a new collage of pics taken at Brokie gatherings all over the world of the past two years?
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Thanks, buds, for all your words. :-*
I think you should contribute whatever you want to, from $5 on up. If there is money left, we can donate it to a good cause in Heath's memory.
Just a though here. What if we take the extra monies and set up a scholarship fund in Heath's name at a Performing Arts school? So when his B-day rolls around we can contribute more into the fund.
On this other fan based site for a Canadian actor ,in lieu of cards and gifts,we have been doing this for several years and the actor, school, and student is very appreciative of the gesture.
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Just a though here. What if we take the extra monies and set up a scholarship fund in Heath's name at a Performing Arts school? So when his B-day rolls around we can contribute more into the fund.
On this other fan based site for a Canadian actor ,in lieu of cards and gifts,we have been doing this for several years and the actor, school, and student is very appreciative of the gesture.
Hi Roryennis, welcome! This is such a beautiful idea, please tell us more about it!
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Just a reminder to everyone making contributions: Send them to my account, not the BetterMost account that you see on the right side of the page.
My account is [email protected].
I'm depending on my Perth-based friend to find out the details of the service arrangements, as far as that is possible. She can call around and find out which florists are sending the flowers to the family. Also, she works for a newspaper, though not the one we're putting the notice in. She will know best how to take care of the placement and timing of the notice, I think.
I think we will also need to organize a thank you for your friend...
:)
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I was wondering about one thing, Meryl. Are we allowed to use that pic of Heath (I'm thinking of possible copyright) and is it high resolution enough to be printed?
I have no idea, Melissa. Anyone have any information or thoughts on this?
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I have no idea, Melissa. Anyone have any information or thoughts on this?
Do you remember from which site it came? I have been trying to find the original source on the internet, but couldn't find it!
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Do you remember from which site it came? I have been trying to find the original source on the internet, but couldn't find it!
Nope. :(
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Meryl, thank you so very much for organizing this. I'll be contributing.
Fern
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Update on contributions:
15 donations received at PayPal totalling $563.00. Three on the way via mail.
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
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Meryl, the thought of copyright for the picture has crossed my mind too.
Perhaps you could ask your friend the Perth-based journo about this - I'm sure pepple in her profession come across the matter of using images of unknown origin quite often and know the drill.
Or are there anyone here on BM with professional knowledge of such matters?
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Meryl, if using this picture would pose a problem, how about we use the one Mouk took 'up on Brokeback'?
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Meryl, if using this picture would pose a problem, how about we use the one Mouk took 'up on Brokeback'?
What a great idea!
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Meryl, if using this picture would pose a problem, how about we use the one Mouk took 'up on Brokeback'?
Perfect Fabienne! That would be extremely personal and meaningful if there are copyright issues about the other photos. I know it wouldn't really matter, but I wonder if the significance of the location would be lost on the family. Nonetheless, we all would certainly know...
I just love how Mouk found this one, 'untouched' corner of the world as a tribute to Heath/Ennis
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Mouk's picture is beautiful, but I think I'd much rather use a nice picture of Heath. It would resonate more with the family, too, don't you think?
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
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Mouk's picture is beautiful, but I think I'd much rather use a nice picture of Heath. It would resonate more with the family, too, don't you think?
Sure enough Meryl. The Heath picture is great and if we could use it, we certainly should. I hope we can. But on the other hand, if we had to choose between 'no picture' or Mouk's picture, i'd certainly prefer the last.
I know it wouldn't really matter, but I wonder if the significance of the location would be lost on the family. Nonetheless, we all would certainly know...
I just love how Mouk found this one, 'untouched' corner of the world as a tribute to Heath/Ennis
I agree, a little explanation would be necessary maybe something like 'a floral tribute up on Brokeback'? Just a thought.
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John,
I just wanted to say how lovely it is to see you here - Jenny and Meryl have ofcourse given us updates since you took ill back almost 2 years ago, & you have been on yourself intermittently and I know its hard for you to write and read on the computer. I guess thats testament to how much you think of heath and us that you are here just now. I just wanted to say again how good it is to see ya bud. :-*
Kelda speaks for me too. Nobody get jealous, but you have always been so special to me, John. Love, Clarissa
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Someone asked about a link to the picture in the forefront (regarding the one we were thinking of sending with our tribute). I don't know if this is the absolute original source of this photo, but the following article hosts the picture and there is a photo credit beneath the picture:
Heath Ledger Is a Dad
http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.sfgate.com/blogs/images/sfgate/dailydish/2005/11/01/ga_dish_ledger175x277.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/sfgate/detail%3Fblogid%3D7%26entry_id%3D1569&h=277&w=175&sz=10&hl=en&start=391&sig2=XiGPWiH2QB-WjWYfLh4Baw&tbnid=B6ay3A9Xk2UoSM:&tbnh=114&tbnw=72&ei=LMycR8qEMIO4iAGF6o2SBw&prev=/images%3Fq%3D%2Bheath%2BOR%2Bledger,%2BOR%2Bheath%26start%3D378%26imgtype%3Dface%26as_st%3Dy%26gbv%3D2%26ndsp%3D21%26svnum%3D10%26hl%3Den%26safe%3Doff%26sa%3DN
Yikes, that's a long URL. I agree, a brief explanation of Mouk's photo would need to accompany it if we decide to use that one, or can't use the copyrighted photo for some reason.
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Someone asked about a link to the picture in the forefront (regarding the one we were thinking of sending with our tribute). I don't know if this is the absolute original source of this photo, but the following article hosts the picture and there is a photo credit beneath the picture:
Heath Ledger Is a Dad
http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.sfgate.com/blogs/images/sfgate/dailydish/2005/11/01/ga_dish_ledger175x277.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/sfgate/detail%3Fblogid%3D7%26entry_id%3D1569&h=277&w=175&sz=10&hl=en&start=391&sig2=XiGPWiH2QB-WjWYfLh4Baw&tbnid=B6ay3A9Xk2UoSM:&tbnh=114&tbnw=72&ei=LMycR8qEMIO4iAGF6o2SBw&prev=/images%3Fq%3D%2Bheath%2BOR%2Bledger,%2BOR%2Bheath%26start%3D378%26imgtype%3Dface%26as_st%3Dy%26gbv%3D2%26ndsp%3D21%26svnum%3D10%26hl%3Den%26safe%3Doff%26sa%3DN
Yikes, that's a long URL. I agree, a brief explanation of Mouk's photo would need to accompany it if we decide to use that one, or can't use the copyrighted photo for some reason.
That's not the picture in question, Chris. It's this:
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/heathwithposter.jpg)
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
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Update on contributions:
15 donations received at PayPal totalling $563.00. Three on the way via mail.
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
Silly question probably but is there a set amount that people are donating, or is it whatever you want?
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That's not the picture in question, Chris. It's this:
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/heathwithposter.jpg)
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
Oops. Thanks. Darn visual memory. Same shirt though? ;)
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the more I think about, it seems like a paper that is sold for money would have to publish original pictures or quote a source. Milli (and others) have done gazillions of layouts... perhaps they have something similar with known source material.
don't know really, just thinking out loud.
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Meryl - assuming you had this saved on your hard drive from yonks ago? - when you right click and go into properties it sometimes shows the website source you saved it from - have you had a look?
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Silly question probably but is there a set amount that people are donating, or is it whatever you want?
Whatever you want, Souxi, whatever is comfortable and right for you.
L
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oh also - I did do a google search and after 40 pages camer to a blank, but did find this one which has heath with a brokeback connection in the background -although its focus features...
http://aussie_news_views.typepad.com/aussie_news_views/images/heath_ledger.jpg
is that what we were going for heath/brokeback connection?
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I went to paypal.com, but it said that "direct debit payment is not possible." ???
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I'm no expert on copyright at all... but for something like an obituary/ condolence type printing is it really something to be concerned about? We're not going to be profiting in anyway by the use of that image.
I agree with Meryl that an image of Heath/Ennis will probably be most meaningful to his family and friends in Australia.
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I'm no expert on copyright at all... but for something like an obituary/ condolence type printing is it really something to be concerned about? We're not going to be profiting in anyway by the use of that image.
I agree with Meryl that an image of Heath/Ennis will probably be most meaningful to his family and friends in Australia.
Yeah, I agree that Heath/Ennis will be the best choice. We'll just have to wait what Meryl's friend in Aussie says about the copyright issue.
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Can we mail American money, or no?
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Mouk's picture is beautiful, but I think I'd much rather use a nice picture of Heath. It would resonate more with the family, too, don't you think?
Though I love the pic of the tulips in the snow (it's exquisite and so poignant), there is no Australian connection with tulips or snow and an explanation would be necessary.
I'm not sure about everyone else, but when I read a newspaper, I don't read it word for word, from cover to cover. I tend to flit through the pages quickly looking for headlines and pics that catch my attention. And they are the articles I read. If we want our tribute to be noticed by Heath's family, friends and loved ones, we must:
1. Use an instantly recognisable image of Heath;
2. Prominently use Heath's name in the header; and
3. Utilise well-spaced, uncluttered formatting that welcomes the eye to read the notice. Something like this:
In Memoriam
Heath Ledger
1979-2008
(http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o126/kez4oz/Album%201/heathwithposter.jpg)
The men and women of bettermost.net
extend our heartfelt condolences to the family
and friends of Heath Ledger.
We love and respect Heath and thank him
for the spirit of positive change
he has inspired in our lives.
He will always live in our hearts.
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Hi Brokies! :-* Meryl’s friend Peachy here in WA. Thought I’d better jump in because The West could run an ad tomorrow (Tues) but without a pic, due to the holiday and not having staff. I’m afraid I don’t know what their copyright rules would be. They may vary on different papers. None of the notices to date have run a picture, including those from his family.
The classifieds are at the back of the paper as is traditional, and I’m sure his family will read them all. What would you like me to do - wait for the Wednesday ad in hopes they’ll accept the picture? I have about six hours before the Tuesday deadline.
ETA: Meryl just emailed to say go with Wednesday's, so Wednesday it is. *crosses fingers for picture*
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Just a though here. What if we take the extra monies and set up a scholarship fund in Heath's name at a Performing Arts school? So when his B-day rolls around we can contribute more into the fund.
On this other fan based site for a Canadian actor ,in lieu of cards and gifts,we have been doing this for several years and the actor, school, and student is very appreciative of the gesture.
Hi Roryennis, welcome! This is such a beautiful idea, please tell us more about it!
PM me about this. I don't want to step on anyones toes.
I had to contact the original person who set this up. Its a lengthy explanation.
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Hi Brokies! :-* Meryl’s friend Peachy here in WA. Thought I’d better jump in because The West could run an ad tomorrow (Tues) but without a pic, due to the holiday and not having staff. I’m afraid I don’t know what their copyright rules would be. They may vary on different papers. None of the notices to date have run a picture, including those from his family.
The classifieds are at the back of the paper as is traditional, and I’m sure his family will read them all. What would you like me to do - wait for the Wednesday ad in hopes they’ll accept the picture? I have about six hours before the Tuesday deadline.
Hey, Peachy, I just emailed you. I think we should wait til Wednesday and use the picture, unless the staff at the paper have reservations about the copyright issue. Did you see Kerry's suggested layout? That looks good, if you can manage it.
Is it really expensive to actually take out a small ad? Maybe that would be better. We've collected $668.00 so far, with more coming to me in the mail.
By the way, welcome to BetterMost. 8)
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Hey Peachy (welcome!) and Meryl! Thank you so much for getting this all set to go. I think this is a wonderful gesture.
So, on Wednesday, if they won't accept the picture (for copyright reasons or some other reason), I hope we'll still go ahead with just the text format. Is that the plan?
Great, great job and thanks again!
:-*
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I really think that is a very nice text!
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Peachy! I knew it had to be you! Thank you thank you thank you for doing this!
((Hugs you enormously))
I'll be singing Waltzing Matilda in your honour. :-*
If possible, I would have liked a small ad too. But in any case, the text is wonderful and I'm so grateful to all of you who have made this a possibility. Our High Priestess is the best. :-*
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Though I love the pic of the tulips in the snow (it's exquisite and so poignant), there is no Australian connection with tulips or snow and an explanation would be necessary.
I'm not sure about everyone else, but when I read a newspaper, I don't read it word for word, from cover to cover. I tend to flit through the pages quickly looking for headlines and pics that catch my attention. And they are the articles I read. If we want our tribute to be noticed by Heath's family, friends and loved ones, we must:
1. Use an instantly recognisable image of Heath;
2. Prominently use Heath's name in the header; and
3. Utilise well-spaced, uncluttered formatting that welcomes the eye to read the notice. Something like this:
In Memoriam
Heath Ledger
1979-2008
(http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o126/kez4oz/Album%201/heathwithposter.jpg)
The men and women of bettermost.net
extend our heartfelt condolences to the family
and friends of Heath Ledger.
We love and respect Heath and thank him
for the spirit of positive change
he has inspired in our lives.
He will always live in our hearts.
This is amazing, Kerry, thank you so much....
Thank you Peachy for doing this for us! Eternal gratitude coming your way! :-*
God, I'm choking up again, guys...
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This is amazing, Kerry, thank you so much....
Thank you Peachy for doing this for us! Eternal gratitude coming your way! :-*
God, I'm choking up again, guys...
You are very welcome, Melissa. :)
Hang in there, sweetheart. :-*
{{{Melissa}}}
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Well I,m having no luck atall trying to send anything via paypal for flowers. I clicked that I,m not a resident of the US, but in the bit where you fill in your address details, it still asks you for a state and a zip code. Well I don,t have a state because I,m not in the US, and we have postcodes, not zip codes, although they mean the same thing. So I,m stuck. >:(
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I've just sent through my donation, Meryl.
Interflora, here in Australia, do a beautiful big display of Australian native flowers in a lovely wicker basket for about $100 + $20 delivery. We often send this arrangement where I work for staff birthdays, farewells, etc., and it's always well received. I thought Australian native flowers might be appropriate for our Heath.
I think this idea of Australian native flowers is excellent!!! That is truly a good suggestion and does sound so fitting for Heath. I too am wondering what kinds of flowers are native to Australia.
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Well I,m having no luck atall trying to send anything via paypal for flowers. I clicked that I,m not a resident of the US, but in the bit where you fill in your address details, it still asks you for a state and a zip code. Well I don,t have a state because I,m not in the US, and we have postcodes, not zip codes, although they mean the same thing. So I,m stuck. >:(
Go to www.paypal.co.uk then click sign up - ensure the UK is ticked and it will work fine.
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http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16550.msg325171.html#msg325171
Rayn found the pic but I can't find what website hes talking about - Leslie?
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I think this idea of Australian native flowers is excellent!!! That is truly a good suggestion and does sound so fitting for Heath. I too am wondering what kinds of flowers are native to Australia.
Interflora flowers can be ordered from anywhere on earth, no need to be in Australia. To place an order, go to their Australian site at:
http://www.interflora.com.au/default.asp
Here are some of the Australian native flower arrangements they provide. Prices range from approx AUS$80 - AUS$120:
(http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o126/kez4oz/Album%201/Interflora-744.jpg)
Interflora-744
(http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o126/kez4oz/Album%201/Interflora-745.jpg)
Interflora-745
(http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o126/kez4oz/Album%201/Interflora-754.jpg)
Interflora-754
(http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o126/kez4oz/Album%201/Interflora-757.jpg)
Interflora-757
(http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o126/kez4oz/Album%201/Interflora-761.jpg)
Interflora-761
Probably their catalogue number 754 (3rd from top, above) would be the most suitable for a funeral, whereas 744 or 761 would be most suitable if being sent to Heath's family.
I'm inclined to think that 745 and 757 are probably not suitable for a bereavement.
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http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16550.msg325171.html#msg325171
Rayn found the pic but I can't find what website hes talking about - Leslie?
I'm not sure what you're asking, Kelda...
L
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Hey Kerry, those are absolutely gorgeous... thanks for checking this out.
What have we decided about the flowers, are we sending them to the funeral or to the family? I doubt they will make public where and when the funeral is, if they haven't by now.
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I'm not sure what you're asking, Kelda...
L
In the thread he says its a link you sent/made available him.. but I went through some of your last posts so see if I could find the link and therefore the copyright details for the photo and can't - I though you might be able to shed light on which link he is talking about? :-*
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I've just found this beautiful Australian native flower wreath at the Interflora site:
(http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o126/kez4oz/Album%201/Interflora-834.jpg)
Interflora-834
Go here to see it at the site:
http://www.interflora.com.au/catalogue/ProductDetail.asp?CC=AU&CATcode=834
The price is AUS$95.55 (price includes delivery cost).
Interflora advise that it is not suitable for home delivery (to a funeral only).
I'm not sure if a wreath stand is included in the cost. If not, it wouldn't cost much more to include a stand.
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What have we decided about the flowers, are we sending them to the funeral or to the family? I doubt they will make public where and when the funeral is, if they haven't by now.
I'm trusting Peachy to scope that out, since she's local in Perth. She can call florists and try to find out details from them, I hope.
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In the thread he says its a link you sent/made available him.. but I went through some of your last posts so see if I could find the link and therefore the copyright details for the photo and can't - I though you might be able to shed light on which link he is talking about? :-*
We weren't talking about the photo or copyright. He was asking for updates about the memorial service held on Saturday. We were sort of cross-posting in two threads at once, so it is confusing. Sorry about that!
L
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We weren't talking about the photo or copyright. He was asking for updates about the memorial service held on Saturday. We were sort of cross-posting in two threads at once, so it is confusing. Sorry about that!
L
Hmmm.. it seemed like he found the photo on a website you had given him and he just was posting it cos he liked it so much....
Thanks MaineWriter... as you were answering me, I was answering you on another thread... the one about the SAG... I went to the link you gave me and from there found this wonderful pic of both Ennis and Heath...
I'm now confused myself now!
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I'm trusting Peachy to scope that out, since she's local in Perth. She can call florists and try to find out details from them, I hope.
We don't trudge around to florists at my place of work, Meryl. We make all out floral orders through the Interflora site. They have the best prices here in Australia. Is Peachy still visiting this thread? Will she know to do this?
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We don't trudge around to florists at my place of work, Meryl. We make all out floral orders through the Interflora site. They have the best prices here in Australia. Is Peachy still visiting this thread?
I assume so, Kerry. She'll let me know if she has any difficulties. Thanks for your suggestions. 8)
Update: 23 PayPal donations totaling $769.00. Six donations coming via mail.
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
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Important - Do not use the Paypal donate button on the right hand side of the forum to direct contributions to Meryl for this purpose. It directs them to BetterMost instead, and it turns out cheaper for me and you to just refund mis-directed contributions instead of forwarding them. Paypal charges fees for forwarding transactions.
If you have mis-directed a contribution intended for Meryl by sending it to BetterMost, please send me a PM so I can arrange a refund.
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Okay, I sent mine! I pictured half for ad, half for flowers, or whatever you think best, Meryl. :-*
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Yes, I'm still checking the thread. :) The Interflora flowers with the proteas look great. Still no word on the funeral service though. I'm hoping to learn which funeral company will handle the service and find out details from them. I'm sure lots of other people are wanting to know.
Hope to sort out the ad/notice with The West this morning.
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Yes, I'm still checking the thread. :) The Interflora flowers with the proteas look great. Still no word on the funeral service though. I'm hoping to learn which funeral company will handle the service and find out details from them. I'm sure lots of other people are wanting to know.
Hope to sort out the ad/notice with The West this morning.
Thank you, Peachy! You're a peach.
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Meryl, I'll be sending something on behalf of John and myself late tonight....
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Ta muchly for your feedback, Peachy. :)
I just phoned the Interflora freephone number (freephone inside Oz only 1800 808 500) (for Interflora inquiries outside Oz phone +61 3 8517 1500), in the hope that they may have some news about where floral tributes for Heath are to be sent.
I advised them that I wanted to send a floral tribute to either the Ledger family or to Heath's funeral, through Interflora, but did not know where to send it.
I asked if I could make such arrangements, in the hope that Interflora would make the delivery, when the funeral particulars were released.
The Interflora staffer I spoke with advised me that they could not accept such an order without a delivery address. He said Interflora would be pleased to take my order when I could provide them with a delivery address. Sure enough.
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Update!!
The West does have copyright issues with the pic, mainly because of the Brokeback image in the background. They were very nice about it and are trying to crop around the pic of Heath but may not be able to use it. Anyway, they are going to get back to me on it. Should we offer another pic taken by a Brokie? Have two hours to provide one. It looks like they will only run it as a notice.
Peachy
PS (((Mikaela)))
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Heya,
Well, should we go ahead and use picture option number 1?
Or, could we use another pic of Heath in his Ennis gear? Like an outtake or something? Are all photos of Heath dressed as Ennis copyrighted? I, personally, really like the idea of using an Ennis photo... but, in the end maybe the nice black and white portrait of Heath would be just as nice.
Anyone have any great Ennis outtakes? Divshare appears to be having a meltdown (at least for me) at the moment, so I can't access my cache of BBM images. Grrrr. Frustrating.
Leslie, I like the idea of supporting BetterMost in Heath's honor, but for myself, I think I'll make that contribution as a private expression of my own gratitude for this place. Meanwhile, if anyone finds out whether the family has designated a charity or charities, I'll be glad to contribute to that, too.
Since Heath was a dear friend to all of us, even though he didn't know us personally, I like the idea of sending flowers and condolences, like anyone usually does when a friend or family member passes away.
Here's my suggestion for a notice we could have published in the Perth newspaper. Please offer other suggestions if you have them.
The men and women of bettermost.net
extend our heartfelt condolences to the family
and friends of Heath Ledger. We love and
respect Heath and thank him for the spirit
of positive change he has inspired in our lives.
He will always live in our hearts.
If we can include a picture, I like either of these. Other suggestions?
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/heathbw2-1.jpg)
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/heathwithposter.jpg)
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Hi Peachy,
Thanks for getting back to us. Here are four pics to try. The first two I got off the net; the first is a studio shot, the second was taken at a Bafta Awards party, photographer unknown, though it might belong to a specific photographer. The third is a pic of some flowers left at a film site in Alberta by mouk, one of our members. The fourth is a pic of the Grand Tetons taken by my brother.
Use your judgment about what you think would read the best and if the paper would be okay with using either of the first two, given that we don't know the source.
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/heathbw2-1.jpg)
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/baftapartyHeath.jpg)
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/moukflowers.jpg)
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/TetonsSkip.jpg)
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In case an Ennis outtake is okay, as atz suggested, here are three that didn't appear in the film:
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/Ennisouttake3-1.jpg)
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/Ennisouttake3.jpg)
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/Ennisouttake2.jpg)
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"The men and women of bettermost.net
extend our heartfelt condolences to the family"
Very fine. My one query/quibble is that the Ledger family will have no idea what bettermost.net is.
I guess they could come here to find out, but how about
"The men and women of the Brokeback Mountain tribute website
bettermost.net extend..."
I'm not quite happy with "tribute" either - "Brokeback Mountain celebration website" perhaps?
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Well, my 2 cents...
I really like Mouk's picture with the tulips in the snow. And even though folks in Australia might not know that that is, at first glance, once they become aware of the fact that it is a memorial at site where there movie was made, it suddenly takes on a whole new dimension. There are lots of pictures of Heath but that picture by Mouk is a one and only, once in a lifetime.
L
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"The men and women of bettermost.net
extend our heartfelt condolences to the family"
Very fine. My one query/quibble is that the Ledger family will have no idea what bettermost.net is.
I guess they could come here to find out, but how about
"The men and women of the Brokeback Mountain tribute website
bettermost.net extend..."
I'm not quite happy with "tribute" either - "Brokeback Mountain celebration website" perhaps?
Thanks for the input, Shuggy, but I'm not worried about explaining bettermost.net. All they need to do is plug it into the computer, and they will know all they need to know and more. In fact, I hope they are curious enough to do it. :)
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Well, my 2 cents...
I really like Mouk's picture with the tulips in the snow. And even though folks in Australia might not know that that is, at first glance, once they become aware of the fact that it is a memorial at site where there movie was made, it suddenly takes on a whole new dimension. There are lots of pictures of Heath but that picture by Mouk is a one and only, once in a lifetime.
L
Hi Leslie,
I think the memorial in Alberta is amazing too. And, you're right that Heath's family and friends, I'm sure would be amazed at what/where that memorial is. We just have to be sure that the location of the site is very clearly labeled somewhere in the notice.
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In case an Ennis outtake is okay, as atz suggested, here are three that didn't appear in the film:
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/Ennisouttake2.jpg)
Hey High Priestess... I like this one if we try to go for an outtake. Very nice.
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I'm sure folks here in Australia would understand the tulips in the snow. It is very beautiful.
And, would it be a nice thing to say that BetterMost is now more than a tribute to BBM but, to it's members, also a memorial (or tribute) to Heath?
Just a thought.
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Honestly, I think one of the keys to remember here is to keep the design of the notice relatively simple and very cleanly laid-out. I think any of the recently suggested photos would be great.
I wonder if Heath's family already knows very well what "bettermost" means. I bet they probably do. :) That idea makes me smile. So maybe the title of our website will be enough to give them an idea of what we're all about.
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Update II
Okay, I have forwarded Mouk's pic to the classifieds department after another chat on the phone. While the other pics of Heath are lovely, we don't know who took them and if they would infringe copyright. I'd be wary of using them in my own paper for that reason.
I'm sure the Mouk pic will tell the story for the family without words, and as Meryl said they can look up the website. I think they'll understand. :)
They'll let me know the cost once the notice is made up.
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I think it'd be nice.
Especially in Perth. I don't mean to dis anyone's ideas, but I don't get what putting something in Variety would accomplish. For the Oscar snub, it made sense. But for this? Does Heath's family get home delivery of Variety?
Again, I'm just speaking my initial thoughts, I'm not trying to be disrespectful.
Oh and I don't want to sound mean spirited but when I read the post, I thought the same thing. I think what this forum is doing makes more sense and is really (for those doing all the real work) a much greater and more thoughtful effort.
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Update II
Okay, I have forwarded Mouk's pic to the classifieds department after another chat on the phone. While the other pics of Heath are lovely, we don't know who took them and if they would infringe copyright. I'd be wary of using them in my own paper for that reason.
I'm sure the Mouk pic will tell the story for the family without words, and as Meryl said they can look up the website. I think they'll understand. :)
They'll let me know the cost once the notice is made up.
Hurrah for Peachy! :-* :-* :-*
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Update II
Okay, I have forwarded Mouk's pic to the classifieds department after another chat on the phone. While the other pics of Heath are lovely, we don't know who took them and if they would infringe copyright. I'd be wary of using them in my own paper for that reason.
I'm sure the Mouk pic will tell the story for the family without words, and as Meryl said they can look up the website. I think they'll understand. :)
They'll let me know the cost once the notice is made up.
Sounds really lovely. Mouk's pic of the Alberta memorial is so beautiful and so personal. It's a great tribute. I understand the concerns about copyright... it probably really is best to err on the side of caution on that issue.
Great job Peachy. Thank you so much.
:)
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Just posting again since I think my post got lost, can we sen American money in the mail? Or does it have to be a check?
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Thank you so much, Peachy. :)
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Update II
Okay, I have forwarded Mouk's pic to the classifieds department after another chat on the phone. While the other pics of Heath are lovely, we don't know who took them and if they would infringe copyright. I'd be wary of using them in my own paper for that reason.
I'm sure the Mouk pic will tell the story for the family without words, and as Meryl said they can look up the website. I think they'll understand. :)
They'll let me know the cost once the notice is made up.
Perfect. This is wonderful news indeed. Thank you, thank you, thank you, Peachy! And Meryl! And all who helped with their input and contributions.
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Just posting again since I think my post got lost, can we sen American money in the mail? Or does it have to be a check?
It's never a good idea to send cash through the mail, Kristin. I would suggest a check, money order or PayPal for safety's sake.
Update: 26 PayPal donations totaling $889.00, plus half a dozen checks coming in the mail.
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
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Thanks Meryl and Peachy. ;)
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It's never a good idea to send cash through the mail, Kristin. I would suggest a check, money order or PayPal for safety's sake.
Update: 26 PayPal donations totaling $889.00, plus half a dozen checks coming in the mail.
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
Thanks Bud! That seems like a pretty impressive total. Way to go BetterMostians. Is that for the newspaper notice only? Or is that for the flowers too?
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Thanks Bud! That seems like a pretty impressive total. Way to go BetterMostians. Is that for the newspaper notice only? Or is that for the flowers too?
I'm waiting for word from Peachy as to the cost of the notice, but I'm hoping we have enough for both that and some really nice flowers. 8)
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I'm waiting for word from Peachy as to the cost of the notice, but I'm hoping we have enough for both that and some really nice flowers. 8)
Meryl
I just sent my contribution through PayPal, please check if you have received it. Thanks for doing it.
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Meryl
I just sent my contribution through PayPal, please check if you have received it. Thanks for doing it.
The payment came through, Betty. Thanks! 8)
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I just want to say I'm so proud to be a member of Bettermost!
:-*
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I just want to say I'm so proud to be a member of Bettermost!
:-*
Here here! :)
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Got the proofed copy. Heath's name and date of birth/death, followed by the pic, then the notice. I think it looks smashing. 8) I hope it comes out well tomorrow.
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I have been thinking about mouk.
I didn't get to overlap with her much in Alberta, and really our one chance to talk was inside a fast food place while we waited together for some of our fellows. She is from France and is about as pretty as can be. I got such a good feeling from her. Though she doesn't come on BetterMost a lot, and posts even more rarely, she is a true Brokie and a lovely human. I feel a tiny bit like Daniel Day-Lewis talking about Heath, in that I found her story inspiring to me personally. I love that with how one thing led to the next, that's how come her photo end up here.
:-* to mouk.
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Got the proofed copy. Heath's name and date of birth/death, followed by the pic, then the notice. I think it looks smashing. 8) I hope it comes out well tomorrow.
Yay, Peachy, thanks for all you are doing! Is there a way we can see it somehow when it comes out?
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I love that with how one thing led to the next, that's how come her photo end up here.
:-* to mouk.
I'll second that! The dedication and thoughtfullness she put in that tribute (not to mention plowing through all that snow) makes this such a heartfelt tribute.
Merci Mouk! :-*
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OMG guys, Meryl sent me here, I can't believe this is happening. Thank you all, and thank you Peachy for organising it down in Perth and a thousand thanks Ellemeno and Fabienne for your kind words. I feel so honored and overwhelmed, I am shaking and crying. I was thinking of you all when I was at that Campsite, there were so many fond memories from the summer. This photo is from and for all of us.
I am so grateful for meeting you guys, and for your friendship, which I hope will last for ever.
It is true that I don't post much, I am not much of a communicator. Truth is, BBM has dominated my life every single day since my first viewing on 26 Jan 2006, couldn't quit it if I tried to. By making J&E so real, Heath and Jake took me to hell so that I could, finally, feel alive again. I owe them so much more than I can ever say, or comprehend myself.
I did like the photo of Heath / Ennis very much, it was so very relevant and it really is a shame we could not use it. (But I won't complain too loud ;))
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This is so wonderful! :) I am so glad that Mouk's photo will be used and I'm sure it will be special and mean so much to Heath's family.
A huge thank you to everyone who has worked so hard on this and to all the other BettterMost contributors. :-*
I totally agree with Fabienne about being so proud to be a member of Bettermost!
Pete
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Merly, you done so good. Thank you. :-*
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OMG guys, Meryl sent me here, I can't believe this is happening. Thank you all, and thank you Peachy for organising it down in Perth and a thousand thanks Ellemeno and Fabienne for your kind words. I feel so honored and overwhelmed, I am shaking and crying. I was thinking of you all when I was at that Campsite, there were so many fond memories from the summer. This photo is from and for all of us.
I am so grateful for meeting you guys, and for your friendship, which I hope will last for ever.
It is true that I don't post much, I am not much of a communicator. Truth is, BBM has dominated my life every single day since my first viewing on 26 Jan 2006, couldn't quit it if I tried to. By making J&E so real, Heath and Jake took me to hell so that I could, finally, feel alive again. I owe them so much more than I can ever say, or comprehend myself.
I did like the photo of Heath / Ennis very much, it was so very relevant and it really is a shame we could not use it. (But I won't complain too loud ;))
{{{{{{{MOUK}}}}}}}
Thank you so much for doing that, going there and taking this beautiful picture. :-*
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Got the proofed copy. Heath's name and date of birth/death, followed by the pic, then the notice. I think it looks smashing. 8) I hope it comes out well tomorrow.
Wow! I'm so grateful this is happening.
Meryl, Peachy, - Thank you so very much for organizing this. Had a lot of reasons to love the both of you to pieces before, to be sure - now I've got one more. :-* :-*
The picture is lovely, Mouk. Flowers, the snow, campsite, the mountain - and the sunlight emerging. Beautiful, evokative tranquility.
:)
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The picture is lovely, Mouk. Flowers, the snow, campsite, the mountain - and the sunlight emerging. Beautiful, evokative tranquility.
Absolutely agreed. I think it's poignant, peaceful and personal.
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I am so happy about the way this all worked out. Everything is pitch perfect, in my opinion.
Peachy, will be able to post a picture of the notice that way it appeared in the paper? Was the picture in color or black and white?
Leslie
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I plan to photograph or scan it so I can show it to y'all. I'm not sure if we'll get colour or not. The proofed version was colour and the classies do have colour sometimes, so fingers crossed! Either way, it should stand out.
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I plan to photograph or scan it so I can show it to y'all. I'm not sure if we'll get colour or not. The proofed version was colour and the classies do have colour sometimes, so fingers crossed! Either way, it should stand out.
Thanks so much again, can't thank you enough for doing this! Can't wait to see the final proof... *hug*
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Got the proofed copy. Heath's name and date of birth/death, followed by the pic, then the notice. I think it looks smashing. 8) I hope it comes out well tomorrow.
Thank you so much, Peachy. :) We are much obliged.
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Thank you, thank you so very much Meryl, Peachy, and Mouk.
Through all the sadness, through all tragedy, the silver lining are my fellow Brokies. I am glad and proud to be a BetterMostian.
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It feels very therapeutic to be able to contribute to such a wonderful project. This tribute feels so personal, so us .
I am very fortunate to have been to Goat Creek/Campsite 2, but mostly to have met Mouk and Meryl, two very generous souls.
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Peachy,
I found this in an article from the New York Daily News:
Ledger, a rising star in Hollywood known for his brooding personality and complex roles, is expected to be buried in his native Perth, Australia.
Funeral plans remain shrouded in secrecy, but the Bowra & O'Dea funeral home in Midland Australia, is believed to be handling the arrangements.
The century-old funeral home is just a couple of miles away from Guildford, where Ledger attended grammar school in the 1980s.
Mike Ledger, Heath's uncle, told Australian news services that the family was still finalizing plans, but they were considering holding a private wake at Guildford Grammar.
Employees at Bowra & O'Dea were tight-lipped yesterday.
"I don't have any information I can tell you, sorry," a manager said when asked when Ledger's body would be received.
Leslie
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It seems like they are taking their time in arranging the funeral. God, this must be so hard on them... :'(
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I love that thisis happening!!
Can I still contribute?
Peachy, haven't talked to you before but welcome to our community and a million thanks for what you are doing!
You have my un-dying gratitude!
Meryl you too! :-* :-*
And Mouk I can't say enough what a beautiful thing it was that you did. I heard what a trek it mush have been to do that and I am grateful you did that.
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OMG guys, Meryl sent me here, I can't believe this is happening. Thank you all, and thank you Peachy for organising it down in Perth and a thousand thanks Ellemeno and Fabienne for your kind words. I feel so honored and overwhelmed, I am shaking and crying. I was thinking of you all when I was at that Campsite, there were so many fond memories from the summer. This photo is from and for all of us.
I am so grateful for meeting you guys, and for your friendship, which I hope will last for ever.
It is true that I don't post much, I am not much of a communicator. Truth is, BBM has dominated my life every single day since my first viewing on 26 Jan 2006, couldn't quit it if I tried to. By making J&E so real, Heath and Jake took me to hell so that I could, finally, feel alive again. I owe them so much more than I can ever say, or comprehend myself.
I did like the photo of Heath / Ennis very much, it was so very relevant and it really is a shame we could not use it. (But I won't complain too loud ;))
{{{Mouk}}} Thank you so much for the beautiful photo and the effort involved in placing that memorial at the campsite. It's also so nice to see you here.
:)
And, again, cudos to Meryl and Peachy.
:-*
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How wonderful it is to log on this morning and see all the comments here! Mouk, I'm so glad it worked out that your picture will be used. It's personal, beautiful and so moving. I can't wait to see what the finished notice looks like. 8)
Thanks, everyone, for your thanks. It's been a great priviilege to be of service to BetterMost and our Heath in this project. Thank you, Peachy, for stepping up to the plate and getting the job done so well. This is a much-needed balm after a very sad week. :-*
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
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Oh and I don't want to sound mean spirited but when I read the post, I thought the same thing. I think what this forum is doing makes more sense and is really (for those doing all the real work) a much greater and more thoughtful effort.
I absolutely agree. I wasn't really that enthusiastic about the idea of raising money to hand over to some industry trade publication for an advertisement which one can never tell who it reaches. I'd rather donate to something that is either a direct emotional statement that reaches the right people, or to an organization that is doing work on the ground and directly reaching the people it needs to reach. Having been involved in non-profits for many years, there are good ones that do a lot of good work with a little money, and many bad ones that spend all of their contributions on lavish salaries, office stuff, or even worse, to pay for more fundraising. The more direct, the better, and I am especially impressed with smaller groups that spend as much as possible on services instead of on themselves.
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That's not the picture in question, Chris. It's this:
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/heathwithposter.jpg)
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
OMG! I love this picture!
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OMG! I love this picture!
Me too, Lee... He looks so vulnerable doesn't he?
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Me too, Lee... He looks so vulnerable doesn't he?
Yeah!
Looks like the two sides of Ennis.
The tough Cowboy and the Ennis Jack Knew.
Sweet and vulnerable.
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Thank you Phillip. I had hoped my comment would not be taken the wrong way. It's not easy for those organizing this over so many miles. At least there is not a language barrier.
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First of all, I really want to thank Meryl and Peachy so much for all of their work on this. I am so glad to see this take project take off and become a reality. It's wonderful. And then I want to thank Mouk for making that trek through the snow to leave the memorial of Spring flowers near the campsite in Alberta. I am now so glad that photo will be used. At first I thought the photo of Heath would be perfect (and it is a wonderful photo), but after thinking more about it the whole symbolism expressed by the Spring flowers truly means a lot. I agree with underdown in an earlier post that it does seem "to say that BetterMost is now more than a tribute to BBM, to it's members, , also a memorial (or tribute) to Heath." I believe that his family will see this connection and that it will mean a lot to them.
I also want to thank the members of BetterMost and I sure am glad I can count myself as a member of a wonderful group of people.
Jack
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Meryl, have we covered the cost of the add and an estimated $100 for the flowers?
PS - I LOVE LOVE LOVE that we did this - thankyou to Meryl, Peachy and Mouk
(Mouk, your picture is currently my screensaver - its so beautiful)
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I also want to thank the members of BetterMost and I sure am glad I can count myself as a member of a wonderful group of people.
*hug*
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My knees are shaking.......I HAVE SENT THE MONEY......I have a paypal account.....Ifeel like I have climbed Mount Everest.....I hate doing things like these but for the love of BBM..and to honor Heath.....out of respect for his family....IT IS DONE.....
Berit
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(Mouk, your picture is currently my screensaver - its so beautiful)
Mine too!!!! ;D
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I also want to thank the members of BetterMost and I sure am glad I can count myself as a member of a wonderful group of people.
I second that Jack.
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My knees are shaking.......I HAVE SENT THE MONEY......I have a paypal account.....Ifeel like I have climbed Mount Everest.....I hate doing things like these but for the love of BBM..and to honor Heath.....out of respect for his family....IT IS DONE.....
Berit
{{{{{{BERIT}}}}}}
:-* :-* :-*
I can't believe that I started this thread only 6 days ago and see what Meryl and Peachy did in those six days... I can't believe it, it makes tears well up in my eyes to think of it.
Thank you Meryl for your genius idea and thank you Peachy for making it all work.... And Mouk, that picture of the campsite is so extraordinarily beautiful, I'm so happy it will be in the paper with the memorial....
(http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o60/Snuitjeboe/hartje.gif)(http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o60/Snuitjeboe/hartje.gif)(http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o60/Snuitjeboe/hartje.gif)(http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o60/Snuitjeboe/hartje.gif)(http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o60/Snuitjeboe/hartje.gif)(http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o60/Snuitjeboe/hartje.gif)(http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o60/Snuitjeboe/hartje.gif)(http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o60/Snuitjeboe/hartje.gif)
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Mine too!!!! ;D
I always knew we were phsycic sisters! ;D :-* (PS - I'm PMing you)
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Thank you Snavel......and a big hug to you too.....I'm so happy to have you all at Bettermost now when things got so sad.....
I hope so much that the Ledger family will have some privacy so they can lay their beloved son to rest in a way that will help them in the future.
Berit
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I always knew we were phsycic sisters! ;D :-* (PS - I'm PMing you)
Guuuurrrllll you know it! :-*
I answered! ;D
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UPDATE: 30 PayPal donations received, totaling $999.00. Six checks on the way via mail.
Way to go, BetterMostians! (http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Emoticons/grouphugsmall.gif)
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
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UPDATE: 30 PayPal donations received, totaling $999.00. Six checks on the way via mail.
Oh My God!!! :)
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It takes 29 hours to fly from Atlanta to Perth.
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It takes 29 hours to fly from Atlanta to Perth.
Yep! My sister flew from Atlanta to Melbourne when she lived in Austrailia.
I think that was only 21hrs though.
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Peachy,
I found this in an article from the New York Daily News:
Ledger, a rising star in Hollywood known for his brooding personality and complex roles, is expected to be buried in his native Perth, Australia.
Funeral plans remain shrouded in secrecy, but the Bowra & O'Dea funeral home in Midland Australia, is believed to be handling the arrangements.
The century-old funeral home is just a couple of miles away from Guildford, where Ledger attended grammar school in the 1980s.
Mike Ledger, Heath's uncle, told Australian news services that the family was still finalizing plans, but they were considering holding a private wake at Guildford Grammar.
Employees at Bowra & O'Dea were tight-lipped yesterday.
"I don't have any information I can tell you, sorry," a manager said when asked when Ledger's body would be received.
Leslie
Here are some links for Bowra & O'Dea:
http://www.bowraodea.com.au/1.html
http://www.communityguide.com.au/community.cfm?/swan/profile/weddingsoccasions/funerals/284314/
The address is:
Bowra & O'Dea Funeral Directors
131 Great Eastern Highway
Midland WA 6056
Australia
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For anyone who would like to send their own, personal floral tribute to Heath's funeral (as I do), I've just e-mailed the following message to Bowra & O'Dea via their website. Will keep you up to date on their response, as soon as I receive it:
Dear Bowra & O'Dea,
I would like to send a respectful floral tribute to the funeral of Heath Ledger. Kindly notify me of the date, time and location of Mr Ledger's funeral so that I can make arrangements to send a floral tribute via Interflora.
With grateful thanks,
etc.
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Kerry,
I hope I'm wrong, but somehow I think the funeral home will be reluctant to give you any info about time, place, and location. Maybe you can just ask the funeral home if you can send flowers directly to them and they can transport them to wherever for you. (You can offer to pay for the service.) This way, they wouldn't have to divulge any information to you. Even if your flowers were to arrive a day early, floral arrangements typically last for more than a day.
But maybe with your job and all, they will know you are credible and not some reporter hungry for news and give you the information you need.
Good luck, Kerry.
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It's there, guys. :) :) The first on the Ledger list. And I've emailed a scan to Meryl because I can't work out how to get it in here. Any tips? My photobucket account won't upload it either - too big, maybe.
Bowra and O'Dea are likely candidates. I'm hoping the family or the company says something about flowers/donations soon.
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It's there, guys. :) :) The first on the Ledger list. And I've emailed a scan to Meryl because I can't work out how to get it in here. Any tips? My photobucket account won't upload it either - too big, maybe.
Bowra and O'Dea are likely candidates. I'm hoping the family or the company says something about flowers/donations soon.
Oh my God, first on the list? I am so excited! This is wonderful. Thanks so much for all of this Peachy....
Hugs to you,
Leslie
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*checks* Sorry, no it isn't first! *blush* Got a bit excited there! I'm trying to reduce the size for my photobucket...
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Thanks Peachy! Can't wait to see it. :)
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Oh - now I can't go to bed till I've seen it! :)
Thanks again, Peachy.
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Here it is! Peachy triumphant! 8) 8) 8)
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/Deathnoticelarge.jpg)
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Wow. I mean wow. That is so lovely. Peachy, Meryl, Mouk, - you done good!
And it's in colour!!
Once more thank you. I'm a bit emotional, so will leave it at that now.
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Here it is! Peachy triumphant! 8) 8) 8)
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/Deathnotice1.jpg)
Amazing! Way to go BetterMostians. :-*
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It's perfect. Thank you.
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Touching and lovely. Thank you Peachy, Mouk, and Meryl, and all sweet Brokies. I feel a little comfort myself knowing that his family will see our tribute to Heath.
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Thank you Peachy, Mouk, and Meryl. It is a beautiful tribute.
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Thank you so much for this wonderful tribute. You'll find it on our news banner!
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Peachy has sent me another view showing our notice in context on the page. It is really moving to see it there among the other notices.
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/deathnoticeonpage.jpg)
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As it turns out, the cost of placing the notice was very low, only $124.10 US. I've asked Peachy what she thinks of running it again in the Friday paper. What do you all think?
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Fine by me. Did we also send flowers? (May be already addressed and I missed it.)
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Fine by me. Did we also send flowers? (May be already addressed and I missed it.)
Peachy is waiting to find out where and when to send the flowers, but she is on top of that. We have lots of money left, so we can send a really nice arrangement. 8)
I think the next job for Peachy and others here is to find out whether the Ledgers have designated any charities that we can donate to in memory of Heath, because we will definitely have funds left for that. 8)
Update: 31 PayPal donations totaling $1,023.13, with six checks being sent via mail.
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
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I'm surprised it cost so little myself! How about Saturday's West, Meryl? Just a suggestion. That's the bumper edition most people read, with liftouts. I noticed his immediate family ran theirs twice, with copies on Saturday.
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I'm surprised it cost so little myself! How about Saturday's West, Meryl? Just a suggestion. That's the bumper edition most people read, with liftouts. I noticed his immediate family ran theirs twice, with copies on Saturday.
Oh, then that sounds like it would be a good idea, Peachy. I think we should go ahead with that. We certainly have enough money. 8)
I heard on an entertainment show that the funeral would be Thursday or Friday. Any more information on your end? Also, do you know if the family has designated any charities? We will have funds left to make a donation, I'm sure. :)
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Oh, then that sounds like it would be a good idea, Peachy. I think we should go ahead with that. We certainly have enough money. 8)
I heard on an entertainment show that the funeral would be Thursday or Friday. Any more information on your end? Also, do you know if the family has designated any charities? We will have funds left to make a donation, I'm sure. :)
I think this all sounds great! Flowers, a second ad, and donations to charities. Brilliant.
:-*
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I like those ideas, too. :)
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I'll email a request for a second ad then. :)
Reports vary on the funeral but one I noticed online said the details wouldn't be made public at all. That will make the flowers issue difficult. The West said even Heath's uncle didn't know about the funeral yet. I really hope we'll have somewhere to send them.
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As it turns out, the cost of placing the notice was very low, only $124.10 US. I've asked Peachy what she thinks of running it again in the Friday paper. What do you all think?
I think, go for it. Wonderful idea...
L
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that is really classy.
GO BETTERMOST, go Aussies!
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As it turns out, the cost of placing the notice was very low, only $124.10 US. I've asked Peachy what she thinks of running it again in the Friday paper. What do you all think?
I like the idea. I'm surprised it didn't cost more. I like the idea of contributing to a charity also.
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Being Saturday, the West says the cost goes up to $159.06 Australian. Still reasonable I think. :)
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It's lovely to see our effort in context. The photo is perfect. Thanks so much, Peachy.
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This thought struck me just as I was falling asleep, so I had to log on again....
I see our ad has been included as the top item on the Bettermost.Net front page. I would suggest it might also be a nice idea to add the original image of the spring flowers in the snow, and explain where it was taken, why and when. If anyone reading our tribute to Heath in the paper, perhaps even someone in his family, actually follows the link mentioned, they would then get to know that very touching information. It speaks volumes about how Brokeback fans respect and miss Heath. Also the original image is so lovely and peaceful, it would complement the ad facsimile beautifully.
Just a thought.
Otherwise I fully agree with the suggested repeated ad, flowers, and a charity donation. :)
Concerning the flowers, perhaps it's possible that the family would have the firm handling the funeral accepting the flowers and conveying them on to wherever the funeral is? Or conveying them to the family? From the page in the paper you posted, Meryl, it seems there are a lot of local friends and aquaintances of the family who would also want to send flowers....the Ledger family would want to make some way for them to be able to do so, I should think? So perhaps some sort of information will be forthcoming, but probably not the time, location etc. for all to read... Well, we'll see. If Peachy's on the case, this is in safe and capable hands. 8)
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That's a really good point, Mika. I've put a suggestion out to Phillip and Elle to adjust the banner so those links are on top; that way curious surfers can see the story of the picture and the ad right away. 8)
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Check your email (again), Meryl. :)
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I'd like to again thank Peachy, Meryl, and Mouk for that wonderful picture and tribute to our beloved Heath. As I am typing, I am trying to hold back the tears. (tears of sadness and tears of joy) Bettermostians are an awesome group of people of whom I am proud to be a part. :)
I think it's a great idea to run the tribute again, send flowers, and to donate to charity.
You guys are amazing. :-*
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I see our ad has been included as the top item on the Bettermost.Net front page. I would suggest it might also be a nice idea to add the original image of the spring flowers in the snow, and explain where it was taken, why and when. If anyone reading our tribute to Heath in the paper, perhaps even someone in his family, actually follows the link mentioned, they would then get to know that very touching information. It speaks volumes about how Brokeback fans respect and miss Heath. Also the original image is so lovely and peaceful, it would complement the ad facsimile beautifully.
I have put a call to action out to our mods, and frankly anyone who wants to help, by doing one better and creating an article that is written specifically for visiting Aussies as a result of that clipping. Once that is posted (it will be a message on the forum linked from the news banner and article page), I invite everyone to reply and send their greetings and help tell the BetterMost story. Hopefully if I get some help, I'll be able to get something up tonight, so watch the news banner.
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Meryl, Peachy and everybody: well done! Our tribute really stands out, hopefully the family will read it and see how much we care.
Good idea about the second edition, flowers and donation to charity. I was also wondering about something that might be lasting, perhaps a plaque for his old school to inspire the new generatios - with a portrait of him and a few words showing how much an artist with courage and a beautiful soul can do to change lives. Just thinking out loud...
Mikaela, good idea for the flowers. Perhaps we can tell the funeral directors exactly what we want, send them the money and they can place the order when the time is right. They are the perfect people to orchestate it.
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The notice is beautiful. Thank you, Meryl, Peachy, and mouk. :)
About charities: I believe someone mentioned that there was some web site that described charitable interests of various celebrities? I think that it said that Heath's involved children and AIDS.
So here's an idea. Are there any charitable organizations that support opportunities for Australian kids to get involved with acting/theater? Not acting school - I mean, Heath didn't go to acting school - but groups that support theater programs in schools, or summer programs, or anything that lets kids experiment with acting?
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Nice suggestions! The Australian Theatre Youth Productions at at http://www.atyp.com.au/page/JtXsnfuYUm, the WA Youth Theatre Company and Barking Gecko are potential groups. I believe they all receive some government support and funds from Lotterywest, but would accept private donations.
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Thank you everyone for making this happen. :)
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For all our Aussie members, Phillip has started a thread in this forum for Aussies who might decide to visit BetterMost when they read our condolence notice in the Perth paper.
If any of you online right now (I see Kerry and Peachy) want to do that, will you PM Phillip? He's going to be online for another hour, and he'd like to get it done before he has to hit the hay. :)
Thanks! :-*
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His old acting teacher from high school (is that what it's called in Australia) has been interviewed. Maybe she would have a suggestion.
I had this thought that we could buy harmonicas for Perth school kids or sumpn.
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Just a though here. What if we take the extra monies and set up a scholarship fund in Heath's name at a Performing Arts school? So when his B-day rolls around we can contribute more into the fund.
On this other fan based site for a Canadian actor ,in lieu of cards and gifts,we have been doing this for several years and the actor, school, and student is very appreciative of the gesture.
Here is something that I sugessted a while back.
You are right Heath didn't attend an acting school, so maybe wecan create a fund in his name at his school Guildford Grammer School to help a student's boarding fees. I found this on Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guildford_Grammar_School He is listed on their Notable Alumni list.
I found this little tidbit about one of Heath's ancestors:
The Sir Frank Ledger Charitable Trust, named after Heath's great-grandfather, was renowned for granting funds to the area's universities, paying for visiting lecturers and scholarships for gifted students.
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Good morning all Brookies out there!
I'm impressed! Thank you all for all your work and time you spent to make this happen! I really like the thought to give the rest of the money to something that the Ledger family would recommend, after all they knew Heath best.....
I'm also sending a thought of gratitude to they who made the Internet possible! Those people really made the world smaller in a positive way :).Without them I never had met all of you.... :-*
Berit, starting her day......
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Here is something that I sugessted a while back.
You are right Heath didn't attend an acting school, so maybe wecan create a fund in his name at his school Guildford Grammer School to help a student's boarding fees. I found this on Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guildford_Grammar_School He is listed on their Notable Alumni list.
I found this little tidbit about one of Heath's ancestors:
The Sir Frank Ledger Charitable Trust, named after Heath's great-grandfather, was renowned for granting funds to the area's universities, paying for visiting lecturers and scholarships for gifted students.
We have a family photo around here that includes Frank Ledger and Heath at about age 6. I titled it "The Brown and Tan Family" at the time, because all four males (four generations) were wearing Ennisian colors.
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Peachy has sent me another view showing our notice in context on the page. It is really moving to see it there among the other notices.
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/deathnoticeonpage.jpg)
I just got here with great anticipation. It's wonderful, moving, very personal. Thank you, thank you. :)
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It's great! Thank you all!! I just got home late and will catch upon thread tomorrow.
Pete
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Thanks to Sue/Katie77 for giving me text better than my own to insert into our special welcome thread for Aussies coming our way. Be sure to check out the thread and send your welcomes and hellos as well.
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Here it is! Peachy triumphant! 8) 8) 8)
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/Deathnoticelarge.jpg)
:o :o :o :o It's perfect! I just woke up and it gave me quite a start to see it on the homepage (guess I'm still in the denial phase... :'()
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I'm surprised it cost so little myself! How about Saturday's West, Meryl? Just a suggestion. That's the bumper edition most people read, with liftouts. I noticed his immediate family ran theirs twice, with copies on Saturday.
Sounds like an excellent plan. It all looks so good, Peachy.... :-*
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I'm surprised it cost so little myself! How about Saturday's West, Meryl? Just a suggestion. That's the bumper edition most people read, with liftouts. I noticed his immediate family ran theirs twice, with copies on Saturday.
That's a fantastic idea! I think the ad is beautiful, thank you so much guys for taking the time to do this for us. It’s easy to donate money, and I just want you to know that I am so grateful for the effort that you have put in.
I love the fact that there weren’t a massive amount of notices, and none with pictures. The purpose of our ad was for the family and they’ll notice it immediately!
I know that we used a quality newspaper and I am interested to know if it was the same paper that the family used?
When following the thread, I too thought of donations to an acting/drama organisation. This is certainly an idea I would be 100% behind.
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Oh, sorry, I'm back.
I think that the main funeral homes will know where the funeral is being held. If we send flowers to the one we think, I do not think they would have an issue sending them on to the family.
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I know that we used a quality newspaper and I am interested to know if it was the same paper that the family used?
Yes it is as far as I know...
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Peachy has sent me another view showing our notice in context on the page. It is really moving to see it there among the other notices.
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/deathnoticeonpage.jpg)
This is such a wonderful thing you've done!!
And omg the whole page it almost just Heath! Could you maybe post a pic of the whole page? I'd like to check out what the others have written too..
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I have posted this article here because it is dated 30th January and mentions Kim Ledger attending at Heath's property. It also mentions two funeral homes, both of which deny being involved. Please move the post if it should belong elsewhere.
http://www.thewest.com.au/aapstory.aspx?StoryName=455475
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Hi Sandy - yes, his family did run messages in The West. His dad, his sister.. they were heartbreaking. :( I'll see if I can find the Saturday paper at work tomorrow. There were at least three columns full of messages.
I have snail-mailed today's page off to Meryl. There was one other pic as I recall, a little one of a go-kart.
The funeral companies - well, if the family wants complete privacy they will have it. I still hope to hear re official donations re flowers/donations though. ((Brokies))
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The notice is beautiful. Thank you, Meryl, Peachy, and mouk. :)
About charities: I believe someone mentioned that there was some web site that described charitable interests of various celebrities? I think that it said that Heath's involved children and AIDS.
Yes, I found the website. I am going to start a new thread on the topic, so it doesn't get mixed up here with the information on the ad and the flowers.
Leslie
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(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/Deathnoticelarge.jpg)
Thank you very much to everybody who helped, mostly Meryl, Peachy, Mouk for the picture and the the fact that she did get up there, now in winter, and placed this beautiful tribute, and to Mel (Snavel) for starting this thread.
I also agree about running it a second time and about flowers if it is possible to get them there somehow. I think the funeral company would forward them without problems, it's their job (but the problem is finding out which one it is).
I think donating the rest to a charitiy Heath supported (or to a similar organisation, meaning children or AIDS help in this case) would be another wonderful tribute.
(((Brokies)))
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To see our ad in that newspaper among all the other tributes to Heath just brought tears back to my eyes. It's wonderful. Thank you, Meryl, Peachy, Mouk and everybody who contributed. I am so happy to be part of this and to call you my friends! :-*
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Peachy has sent me another view showing our notice in context on the page. It is really moving to see it there among the other notices.
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/deathnoticeonpage.jpg)
That looks just so beautiful in the full context of the page. It really was an excellent image selection now that I see it there. It also makes such a difference in our ad standing out to have an image at all in the midst of all the different text ads. Looks gorgeous Brokies.
:)
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yes, his family did run messages in The West.
I had seen the ads, I'm glad they were posted in the same paper as ours! Well done Peachy!
It also makes such a difference in our ad standing out to have an image at all in the midst of all the different text ads.
Hi Amanda, I completely agree. It really stands out.
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That looks just so beautiful in the full context of the page. It really was an excellent image selection now that I see it there. It also makes such a difference in our ad standing out to have an image at all in the midst of all the different text ads. Looks gorgeous Brokies.
:)
Awesome - I feel so proud and touched at the same time....hope it has the same moving impact on the family and others.
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The notice looks simply wonderful. :)
To Peachy & Meryl & Mouk
& All who partook in this effort ...
(http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i285/Lucise/Misc/d957823b.jpg)
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Yes, I found the website. I am going to start a new thread on the topic, so it doesn't get mixed up here with the information on the ad and the flowers.
Leslie
This is what I found: http://www.heathledger.net/_main/component/option,com_wrapper/Itemid,59/
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This is what I found: http://www.heathledger.net/_main/component/option,com_wrapper/Itemid,59/
That seems to be more of a fundraiser for Heathledger.net.
The sources I found on the charities Heath supported can be found in this thread:
http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16741.0.html
L
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Did anybody see that our notice is next to the notice by Haydn Ledger and family? I think that's Heath's uncle.
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Why do you all think that Ashley (sp?) and Olivia aren't being mentioned as family, only Kate? Whose children are they? I mean which parent do they share with Heath?
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The notice looks simply wonderful. :)
To Peachy & Meryl & Mouk
& All who partook in this effort ...
(http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i285/Lucise/Misc/d957823b.jpg)
Yes...thanks Milli for saying this. I'm so glad I could contribute. Makes me feel more connected to all of us.
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The latest news here is that the funeral will be next week. Bowra and O'Dea are still touted as the directors who will handle it. So there's still hope we can send flowers. :)
Magazines here are covered with Heath's face.
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Why do you all think that Ashley (sp?) and Olivia aren't being mentioned as family, only Kate? Whose children are they? I mean which parent do they share with Heath?
I believe they are his step-sisters on his mother's side. One of the quotes over of the "words of Heath" thread (by ToOP Bruce) mentioned growing up with all women and learning patience. It makes me think that after his parents got divorced, his primarily custodial parent was with his mother (not uncommon) with his sister and eventually, his step-sisters.
L
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Update: 33 PayPal donations totaling $1,153.21. Six coming via the mail.
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
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The notice really came out lovely. And it's nice to see it in the context of the paper.
It's just too sad that it ever had to be done. :'(
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Why do you all think that Ashley (sp?) and Olivia aren't being mentioned as family, only Kate? Whose children are they? I mean which parent do they share with Heath?
I believe they are his step-sisters on his mother's side. One of the quotes over of the "words of Heath" thread (by ToOP Bruce) mentioned growing up with all women and learning patience. It makes me think that after his parents got divorced, his primarily custodial parent was with his mother (not uncommon) with his sister and eventually, his step-sisters.
It seems there's one step-sister on his mother's side and one step-sister on his father's side.
Heath's parents divorced when he was around ten years old and subsequently married other people. Ashley Bell (born in 1989) is the daughter of Heath's mother (Sally) and her new husband (Roger Bell). Olivia Ledger (born in 1997) is the daughter of Heath's father (Kim) and his new wife (Emma Brown).
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I agree with running the notice a second time, trying to send flowers if it is possible, and donating the rest to a charity Heath supported or that his family recommends.
Thanks again Peachy, Meryl & Mouk . . . and everyone who has contributed!
It is such a wonderful and touching tribute and I’m sure Heath’s family and friends will agree.
Pete
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It seems there's one step-sister on his mother's side and one step-sister on his father's side.
Heath's parents divorced when he was around ten years old and subsequently married other people. Ashley Bell (born in 1989) is the daughter of Heath's mother (Sally) and her new husband (Roger Bell). Olivia Ledger (born in 1997) is the daughter of Heath's father (Kim) and his new wife (Emma Brown).
Thanks so much, Fran, for that.
Well, hunh. If Heath thought of them as his sisters, seems highly disrespectful that others aren't including them with the named family members.
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Bowra and O'Dea are still touted as the directors who will handle it. So there's still hope we can send flowers. :)
I think that whilst we won't know which funeral home is dealing with the arrangements, Bowra and O'Dea will (even if it is not them). We could send flowers there and simply ask Interflora to add on a note saying that they have to be passed onto the family. That way, we still won't know where the ceremony will be held but the flowers would find their way into the correct hands.
Just a thought.
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It seems there's one step-sister on his mother's side and one step-sister on his father's side.
Heath's parents divorced when he was around ten years old and subsequently married other people. Ashley Bell (born in 1989) is the daughter of Heath's mother (Sally) and her new husband (Roger Bell). Olivia Ledger (born in 1997) is the daughter of Heath's father (Kim) and his new wife (Emma Brown).
Thanks for straightening me out, Fran!
L
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I love this notice, you have no idea how much! And I can't believe the cost - by all means post it again, we'll still have money for flowers and a charitable donation.
On that....
About charities: I believe someone mentioned that there was some web site that described charitable interests of various celebrities? I think that it said that Heath's involved children and AIDS.
So here's an idea. Are there any charitable organizations that support opportunities for Australian kids to get involved with acting/theater? Not acting school - I mean, Heath didn't go to acting school - but groups that support theater programs in schools, or summer programs, or anything that lets kids experiment with acting?
yep that was me - http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16644.msg324169.html#msg324169 - the site where I got the info from was http://www.looktothestars.org/celebrity/149-heath-ledger
That looks just so beautiful in the full context of the page. It really was an excellent image selection now that I see it there. It also makes such a difference in our ad standing out to have an image at all in the midst of all the different text ads. Looks gorgeous Brokies.
:)
I agree - and so touching - all the other notices for Heath.
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I know there are cultural differences at work so it may not be the same in Australia (or the US) - but here back home it's customary for the family to express where donations may be made in order to honour the interests or wishes of the deceased. (Oh God, that horrible word!) :-\
If that's the same in Australia, then surely the Ledger family may be expected to say something along those lines very soon, especially since they know there are many people around the world who grieve and would like to honour Heath in some way.
Not that I don't think both AIDS research and childrens' charities are entirely deserving of donations, of course, if the family decides not to say anything specific about this topic.
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I am not able to keep up with the thread currently, but I just wanted to pop in and say that the announcement as posted on the Bettermost home page is amazing; I like it very much. Thank you all.
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I know there are cultural differences at work so it may not be the same in Australia (or the US) - but here back home it's customary for the family to express where donations may be made in order to honour the interests or wishes of the deceased. (Oh God, that horrible word!) :-\
If that's the same in Australia, then surely the Ledger family may be expected to say something along those lines very soon, especially since they know there are many people around the world who grieve and would like to honour Heath in some way.
Not that I don't think both AIDS research and childrens' charities are entirely deserving of donations, of course, if the family decides not to say anything specific about this topic.
It's an individual thing here in Australia, Mikaela. There are no set rules, per se.
In Australia, if there are any specific considerations, they are usually stated in the formal funeral noticed, placed in the press on the family's behalf, by the funeral directors (undertakers).
So the general rule is that if the funeral notice simply states the date and time of the funeral, it is OK to send flowers to the designated location at the appointed time.
However, if flowers are not wanted, in the funeral notice it will state something like, "Please no flowers," or "Donations to the children's ward at ........ Hospital in lieu of flowers please."
Most people here in Australia wait to read the funeral notice before they make their tribute arrangements.
I'm sure that flowers are sometimes sent to a funeral, even after a family requests that none be sent. On those occasions, it is my understanding that the funeral directors redirect them to a local hospital, for distribution on the wards.
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i just wanted to say that the notice in the paper was absolutely beautiful.
well done to all who made it happen.
this is my first ever post on any type of message board/forum/site, i'm usually the quite one that sits back and reads and never knows what to write. But after reading the post on IMDB ( containing the link to here a site i never new existed), the entire 32 pages of this thred and then with the warm welcome message to new Aussie members. i felt i had to express how moved i was by the way every one came together to show they cared.
xx :)
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Welcome, bec, and thank you for the words about the notice in the paper. Come back and post any time.
I know you and all the people in Australia feel the loss of Heath very deeply too. He was a treasure to all of us, and we will miss him.
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Thank you, *bec*, and thank you, everyone, who has said how much you appreciated and liked the condolence announcement. It makes me feel warm inside to know I helped make it happen, and that is very healing at this sad time.
I want to thank Melissa (Snavel) for starting the thread, Mel (nakymaton) for suggesting I contact Peachy (we both know her from another fandom) to help us, and Peachy herself, of course, as well as mouk for the beautiful picture and Kerry for his helpful input and all of you who contributed money to the cause. We can at least hope that it brought a small amount of comfort to Heath's family. We know it sure enough brought real comfort to us. :-*
Update: 34 PayPal donations totaling $1,177.18. Six coming via the mail.
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
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i just wanted to say that the notice in the paper was absolutely beautiful.
well done to all who made it happen.
this is my first ever post on any type of message board/forum/site, i'm usually the quite one that sits back and reads and never knows what to write. But after reading the post on IMDB ( containing the link to here a site i never new existed), the entire 32 pages of this thred and then with the warm welcome message to new Aussie members. i felt i had to express how moved i was by the way every one came together to show they cared.
xx :)
Welcome to BetterMost *bec* :). Thank you for this lovely post.
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i just wanted to say that the notice in the paper was absolutely beautiful.
well done to all who made it happen.
this is my first ever post on any type of message board/forum/site, i'm usually the quite one that sits back and reads and never knows what to write. But after reading the post on IMDB ( containing the link to here a site i never new existed), the entire 32 pages of this thred and then with the warm welcome message to new Aussie members. i felt i had to express how moved i was by the way every one came together to show they cared.
xx :)
Hey Bec!
So glad to have you here!
Please make yourself at home!
You are among friends here.
If you look around, you will see that not only the movie but the actors who brought it to life mean a great deal to us all.
Again, welcome home to Bettermost! :-*
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i just wanted to say that the notice in the paper was absolutely beautiful.
well done to all who made it happen.
this is my first ever post on any type of message board/forum/site, i'm usually the quite one that sits back and reads and never knows what to write. But after reading the post on IMDB ( containing the link to here a site i never new existed), the entire 32 pages of this thred and then with the warm welcome message to new Aussie members. i felt i had to express how moved i was by the way every one came together to show they cared.
xx :)
Welcome to BetterMost, Bec! :D
It's so good to see a fellow Sydneysider here! 8)
Don't hesitate to contact me if I can be of any assistance. You will find a wonderful group of people here, from all over the world.
Kerry
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thank you all for your kind welcoming words :-*
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Welcome Bec,
I too am new to this community and I have to say that these folks are the best!
I want to say a big thank you Meryl, Snavel , Peachy and everyone that was involved with this wonderful and beautiful condolence message. I say go for it for the second run of the message and flowers.
I think donating the extra monies to a charity that Heath supports like children with AIDS is a wonderful idea. I've been donating to Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS for a while now because of another Aussie Hugh Jackman.
Maybe we could still donated a small amount to a childrens performing arts program.
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i just wanted to say that the notice in the paper was absolutely beautiful.
well done to all who made it happen.
this is my first ever post on any type of message board/forum/site, i'm usually the quite one that sits back and reads and never knows what to write. But after reading the post on IMDB ( containing the link to here a site i never new existed), the entire 32 pages of this thred and then with the warm welcome message to new Aussie members. i felt i had to express how moved i was by the way every one came together to show they cared.
xx :)
Welcome Bec... Hope you find what you are looking for here.... Let one of us know if you have any questions, OK?
:-*
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i just wanted to say that the notice in the paper was absolutely beautiful.
well done to all who made it happen.
this is my first ever post on any type of message board/forum/site, i'm usually the quite one that sits back and reads and never knows what to write. But after reading the post on IMDB ( containing the link to here a site i never new existed), the entire 32 pages of this thred and then with the warm welcome message to new Aussie members. i felt i had to express how moved i was by the way every one came together to show they cared.
xx :)
I also want to say welcome to bettermost Bec, and thank you for the kind words...
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Thank you all again for the welcoming.
this is such a lovely site I'm surprised and sadened i didn't find it before now.
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Welcome bec, to a truly wonderful place.......
Berit, living in Sweden :D
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Hi Bec, nice to know ya!
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Morning, bec, and fellow Brokies! It's in the wee hours in Perth now (they're 14 hours ahead of NY time), but hopefully Peachy will check in today to report on the notice appearing in the Saturday paper. 8)
Update: 34 PayPal donations totaling $1,201.15. Two via mail totaling $45.00, four more on the way.
Grand Total = $1,246.15
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
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Update: 34 PayPal donations totaling $1,201.15. Two via mail totaling $45.00, four more on the way.
Grand Total = $1,246.15
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
Yeeeeehaaawwwww! :-*
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Tell you what...
I started to feel a little better, and this thread has been the cause. I have felt as if I've been working towards something, waiting on the notice, discussing flowers, waiting on the Saturday notice, reading everyone's reactions, talking about what charities etc, etc.
We've all been 'kept busy', but when he's laid to rest, it's going to be so hard. Can we pick charities a wee while from now? It will give us an opportunity to do something for him even although the rest of the world is moving on.
I think others are realising this and that is why there are other discussions going on about sending cards to Jake, Michelle etc. We all want to be involved and I would prefer to make a decision on a charity when the grief is less raw. We would also have more money to donate.
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Everybody,
I was reading Michelle's statement on another thread and I was wondering if we could maybe place an obituary in which we pay our respects to her and Matilda in a New York paper? God, it just broke my heart to read her statement
What do you all think?
Mel
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i just wanted to say that the notice in the paper was absolutely beautiful.
well done to all who made it happen.
this is my first ever post on any type of message board/forum/site, i'm usually the quite one that sits back and reads and never knows what to write. But after reading the post on IMDB ( containing the link to here a site i never new existed), the entire 32 pages of this thred and then with the warm welcome message to new Aussie members. i felt i had to express how moved i was by the way every one came together to show they cared.
xx :)
bec - thanks for coming to see us. Welcome :-*
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Welcome Bec! :)
Our notice is in The West again today at the top of a column. There were about six altogether for Heath.
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Welcome Bec! :)
Our notice is in The West again today at the top of a column. There were about six altogether for Heath.
Do you know if the post the condolence messages( just can't say the "O"word still to raw for me) on the Wests internet site?
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It doesn't look like it, Rory. I found property classifieds and such, but not the 'O' ones. The site is www.thewest.com.au
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Thanks, Peachy! When you get a chance, maybe you can scan the new page so we can see the surrounding messages. Snoopy, me? Nah! ;)
Also, let me know the final cost of the two ads so I can forward that to you. :-*
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Just emailed you, Snoopy - sorry, Meryl! ;)
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Thank you Peachy, Rory, Kelda, Berit.
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Everybody,
I was reading Michelle's statement on another thread and I was wondering if we could maybe place an obituary in which we pay our respects to her and Matilda in a New York paper? God, it just broke my heart to read her statement
I was thinking this may have gotten lost on another page. What do you all think of this idea?
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I was thinking this may have gotten lost on another page. What do you all think of this idea?
I reckon that Michelle will be in Perth for the funeral and will see the notice placed for 'family and friends'-she'll know it's for her too.
I am just glad the our notice was next to one of the family's notices. It's nice to think that ours will be seen and the family may visit us-and know how loved he was.
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I agree with that, Sandy.
I think we should stick with the original plan of 2 notices in the Perth region paper, flowers, and a donation to a charity. For the donation, in my view giving it to either programmes for kids with AIDS or to some sort of cultural/acting programme for kids would be great. Michelle's statement and her loving description of little Matilda made me think that it would somehow honour all 3 of them if the donation went to children who need a helping hand, either due to illness or for other reasons.
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I agree with that, Sandy.
I think we should stick with the original plan of 2 notices in the Perth region paper, flowers, and a donation to a charity. For the donation, in my view giving it to either programmes for kids with AIDS or to some sort of cultural/acting programme for kids would be great. Michelle's statement and her loving description of little Matilda made me think that it would somehow honour all 3 of them if the donation went to children who need a helping hand, either due to illness or for other reasons.
What Mika and Sandy said. :)
Peachy sent me a scan of the Saturday paper, but it's in a format I can't upload, so she'll try again at work on Monday. It looks nice, though. 8)
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What Mika and Sandy said. :)
Peachy sent me a scan of the Saturday paper, but it's in a format I can't upload, so she'll try again at work on Monday. It looks nice, though. 8)
Thanks Meryl. I would like to see it.
{{{{{{{{{Meryl}}}}}}}}
Pete
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:)
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I've just sent Peachy $300 US to cover costs of the two condolence notices plus postage costs for sending me copies of the papers. 8)
We should know soon about the cost of flowers. Hopefully, we'll be able to send a nice arrangement to the funeral. However, if it looks like the family is actively discouraging people from doing that, IMO it may be better to respect their wishes. If we don't send flowers, we'll have all the more money to donate to a charity in Heath's name. Today or tomorrow should give us a better idea of the situation.
Update: 35 PayPal donations totaling $1,229.69. Three via mail totaling $95.00, three more on the way.
Total Contributions to Date = $1,324.69
Total Disbursed for Expenses = $300.00
Balance Available = $1,024.69
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
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thank you all for your kind welcoming words :-*
Welcome to Bettermost Bec!!! As others have said this forum consists of a lot of very friendly and caring people. I am glad you found us. It is also true as was stated that the movie as well as the actors and others involved mean a whole lot to us. Heath was my favorite actor of all time as soon as I saw Brokeback. He also became one of my very favorite people after reading so much about him shortly after I saw the movie.
Jack
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Bec, where did you get the picture of Heath that you are using for your avatar? I don't think I have that picture and it is a GREAT one.
Jack
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Bec, where did you get the picture of Heath that you are using for your avatar? I don't think I have that picture and it is a GREAT one.
Jack
Thanx Jack ummm i'm not really sure i've had it for a while but i will try and find out where it came from and get back to you.
Also not sure if it helps much but this is what's i got emailed to me today.
http://au.news.yahoo.com/080124/2/15mgi.html (http://au.news.yahoo.com/080124/2/15mgi.html)
it's a little more than we knew already i guess. doesn't really say a date or place tho ???
So on second thoughts it's probably useless ;)
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Thanks for the link, bec. It does fill in a few blanks as to when the family left for Australia. :(
My thanks to Peachy, who has sent me two pics of the Saturday notice in The West Australian:
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/SatHeathnotice-1.jpg)
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/SatHeathnotice2-1.jpg)
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Thank you Meryl, it looks beautiful.... *tears welling up again*
Hugs to all of you!
Mel
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It does indeed look beautiful, sincere and respectful, not intrusive on private grief - just the right way and the right words to convey our condolences to the family and our gratitude to Heath.
Thank you once more Peachy and Meryl for organizing all of this. :-*
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Thanks you Meryl for posting those pictures. Like Mikaela said, it looks very good, not intrusive. It really is a very personal way of sending our condolences. The picture is perfect.
Thank you too Peachy!
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Thank you again Meryl and Peachy.
Yes, the condolences are beautiful, I just wish there would be no need for it .... :'(
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I'm sorry I have not contributed yet, but the end-of-the-month paycheck is entirely earmarked for the rent, so the last week of the month is always a tight time financially for me. But I intend to chip in when the next check comes.
I was wondering about the possibility about us maybe making a donation in his name to a school or organization in Brooklyn, where Heath chose to settle with his new family (and to where most of us believe he would have returned). I have no specific ideas, it's just a thought.
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not intrusive on private grief
To me, it was really important not to intrude and I agree with Mikaela. I think we have extended our condolences to the family in the best way possible.
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I agree with Mikaela and Sandy. Meryl and Peachy, you are one class act.
(Meryl, I hope that being an organizer for this has helped you...) :-*
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I agree with Mikaela and Sandy. Meryl and Peachy, you are one class act.
(Meryl, I hope that being an organizer for this has helped you...) :-*
Thanks, Mel, and everybody. Yes, it's helped me a lot to be able to take some action for Heath, even if it's only to let his loved ones know how much we cared about him. Alas, that's all we can do for him now, besides keeping him close to our hearts and defending him in the eyes of a world that may want to look down on him for the way he led his life. We're so fortunate that we got to know him better than most, aren't we? We know what we've lost. :(
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Thanks, Mel, and everybody. Yes, it's helped me a lot to be able to take some action for Heath, even if it's only to let his loved ones know how much we cared about him. Alas, that's all we can do for him now, besides keeping him close to our hearts and defending him in the eyes of a world that may want to look down on him for the way he led his life. We're so fortunate that we got to know him better than most, aren't we? We know what we've lost. :(
Lovely post High Priestess. Very, very well expressed.
:-*
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Thanks, Mel, and everybody. Yes, it's helped me a lot to be able to take some action for Heath, even if it's only to let his loved ones know how much we cared about him. Alas, that's all we can do for him now, besides keeping him close to our hearts and defending him in the eyes of a world that may want to look down on him for the way he led his life. We're so fortunate that we got to know him better than most, aren't we? We know what we've lost. :(
(((Meryl)))
You've done us proud...
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Thank you Meryl, thank you Peachy for your great work. Oh yes, we know what we have lost, and it is hard. A g..d..b.. of an unsatisfactory situation. At least, thanks to both of you we have the feeling that we are doing a little bit something to thank him for all that he has done for us, and this is some comfort.
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Thank's Meryl, Peachy, and Mouk for helping us all extend our sincere condolences to Heath's family and friends insuch a beautifuly way. I also really liked your last post on this thread Meryl.
Pete
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Thank you Meryl, it looks beautiful.... *tears welling up again*
Hugs to all of you!
Mel
It does look beautiful. It's perfect.
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I just was on Findingbrokeback.com to check something and was very touched to see that the guys there posted Mouk's beautiful photo on their home page with the following text:
Welcome to
Finding Brokeback
Photo courtesy “Mouk”
In Memoriam
Heath Ledger
1979 - 2008
***
http://www.findingbrokeback.com/ (http://www.findingbrokeback.com/)
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I just was on Findingbrokeback.com to check something and was very touched to see that the guys there posted Mouk's beautiful photo on their home page with the following text:
Welcome to
Finding Brokeback
Photo courtesy “Mouk”
In Memoriam
Heath Ledger
1979 - 2008
***
http://www.findingbrokeback.com/ (http://www.findingbrokeback.com/)
Hey Friend! Thanks for bringing this over here. This is certainly nice to know.
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Brokies dear, thanks for being my buds (http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Emoticons/grouphug2.gif)
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Brokies dear, thanks for being my buds (http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Emoticons/grouphug2.gif)
No, THANK YOU for doing such a wonderful job in organizing this memorium for Heath so that people in his home town know that he was loved and respected from half way around the world.
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I'm sorry I have not contributed yet, but the end-of-the-month paycheck is entirely earmarked for the rent, so the last week of the month is always a tight time financially for me. But I intend to chip in when the next check comes.
I was wondering about the possibility about us maybe making a donation in his name to a school or organization in Brooklyn, where Heath chose to settle with his new family (and to where most of us believe he would have returned). I have no specific ideas, it's just a thought.
Hey Verona, please don't feel obligated to contribute if in any way it would be a hardship. No one would want you to do that. If you really want to contribute, please just send a small amount that won't cause any harm to your budget. Your thoughts are enough. :)
To the organizers: has the decision been made yet about what to do with the balance of donations?
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To the organizers: has the decision been made yet about what to do with the balance of donations?
I expect soon we'll hear from Peachy about whether the family is accepting flowers for the funeral. If so, then she'll send a bouquet and let us know how it went. If she can't send the bouquet, then we can send all the remaining money to a cause that Heath supported. I'm still hoping maybe the family will mention some specific charities where donations will be welcomed. We'll see.
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Hey Verona, please don't feel obligated to contribute if in any way it would be a hardship. No one would want you to do that. If you really want to contribute, please just send a small amount that won't cause any harm to your budget. Your thoughts are enough. :)
To the organizers: has the decision been made yet about what to do with the balance of donations?
I definitely want to contribute! It was just bad timing. :-\ The week leading up to rent time is lean and mean.
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I definitely want to contribute! It was just bad timing. :-\ The week leading up to rent time is lean and mean.
{{{{verona}}}}} Don't worry about it! :-*
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{{{{verona}}}}} Don't worry about it! :-*
Not to mention you have been contributing - I really appreciate your posts. Where you been all our lives, hunh?
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Not to mention you have been contributing - I really appreciate your posts. Where you been all our lives, hunh?
You took the words right out of my mouth.... :-*
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I expect soon we'll hear from Peachy about whether the family is accepting flowers for the funeral. If so, then she'll send a bouquet and let us know how it went. If she can't send the bouquet, then we can send all the remaining money to a cause that Heath supported. I'm still hoping maybe the family will mention some specific charities where donations will be welcomed. We'll see.
I hope they do too, because it would be current and timely. But I did find the information, which I posted on the thread I started, about the three charities he did support. It seems his interests revolved around children and AIDS.
L
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Now that Heath's immediate family plus Michelle and Matilda have arrived in Perth, it would appear (from two media reports I've read in the past 24 hours) that the funeral is likely to be held at Karrakatta Cemetery next Saturday (Friday US time).
Though I respect the family's privacy, I still feel the need to pay my personal respects and would like to send a floral tribute to the funeral.
I plan to phone Interflora tomorrow on their freecall number (inside Aust only) 1800808500 (85171500 outside Aust) and asking if I can send flowers to Heath's funeral at Karrakatta Cemetery next Saturday. Fingers crossed, I hope they will accept my order, even though I will not be able to quote an exact time.
FYI, the website for Interflora is www.interflora.com.au where you can place an order on-line from anywhere on earth. They have a lovely "Sympathy" selection. You'll be able to get a very nice arrangement delivered for approx AUST$120 (includes delivery cost) = approx US$100. Some arrangements are priced less than that.
The delivery address is:
Karrakatta Cemetery
Railway Road
Karrakatta
Western Australia
If Interflora accept my order, I will be asking them to attach a card with a personal message from me, the wording of which I will write myself. I will include my name and address in the card.
I'll keep you up-to-date on the process (i.e., whether or not Interflora will accept my order) as soon as I know more myself. It's about 11pm on Wed night here in Sydney right now and I will be phoning Interflora on Thursday morning local time, in 10-12 hours from now.
If the family makes an announcement in the next couple of days that they want no flowers at the funeral, it goes without saying that I will respect their wishes and send none.
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Not to mention you have been contributing - I really appreciate your posts. Where you been all our lives, hunh?
Gosh, you guys... ::)
:-*
And Kerry, just reading your last post makes this whole thing even more real. :'(
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(((((Verona)))))
Kerry, thanks so much, bud, for all your research. I've sent Peachy an email. We should know soon. :)
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I have successfully placed an order for flowers to be delivered to Karrakatta Cemetery next Saturday.
I did so by phoning the Interflora freecall number 1800808500 (inside Australia only). The operator I spoke to was very kind and professional.
To place an order outside Australia, you can either phone Interflora direct on 61385171500 (you should quote your country’s Australia code at the beginning of that number) or by going to Interflora’s website at www.interflora.com.au
Interflora will take your order from anywhere in the world. Payment via your charge card.
If you are placing your order over the phone, I would suggest that you visit the Interflora site beforehand, so that you can quote what arrangement you want delivered. Go to the Sympathy section (listed across the top of the homepage). Rest your mouse pointer on the arrangement you like and a reference number will appear, along with that particular arrangement’s name.
The funeral is to be held on Saturday 9 February 2008
The address for delivery is:
Funeral of the Late Heath Ledger
Karrakatta Cemetery
Railway Road
Karrakatta
Western Australia 6010
Australia
Karrakatta Cemetery is administered by the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board (phone 61893835200). The operator taking your order will ask for these details so they can liaise on your behalf, to find out the exact time of the funeral.
The way Interflora works is that they liaise with florists in the vicinity of the funeral who have arrangements with Interflora, who deliver your floral tribute on your behalf. They have local knowledge, ear to the ground, and will make delivery at the appointed time. If necessary, they will phone the cemetery for particulars. The operator I spoke to said they are anticipating many floral tributes to be delivered.
I advised the operator that I wanted to enclose a card with a personal message, the wording of which he assisted me with (at this point of time on the phone, I’m afraid I became somewhat emotional – the operator was very compassionate and understanding). My card was address to “Mr Kim Ledger & Family” and included my name and home address. I did this because it is the usual practice in Australia for the family of the deceased to send thank you cards/notes to people who send flowers.
The operator asked me for my contact phone number (I gave my mobile number), so that he could phone me if there was any problem with the delivery.
I can’t speak too highly of the chap I spoke to at Interflora. He was a consummate professional and so compassionate in his manner. I advised him that I knew of many people who will be wanting to send floral tributes from around the world and he advised me that orders could be placed either via the internet or at their 61385171500 number. He recommended the latter, for personal service. Phone orders can be made between the hours of 8am to 9pm every day, Australian time. On-line orders can be made any time.
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Kerry,
I know how important this is to you, so I am happy to hear that you were able to make your arrangements for the floral delivery.
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Funeral of the Late Heath Ledger
Oh God. :'(
I know they're just words and I'm being a big stupid baby. But these words are just wrong on so many levels.
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Well done Kerry - at last some concrete info. So Meryl and friends, would you like to order things yourselves through Interflora? Have me do so? Take a floral arrangement up myself? Am at your service. :)
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Well done Kerry - at last some concrete info. So Meryl and friends, would you like to order things yourselves through Interflora? Have me do so? Take a floral arrangement up myself? Am at your service. :)
Peachy, I say go ahead on your end and have it delivered. Use your judgment about a nice arrangement, not too extravagant, but tastefull. The card could read "With heartfelt condolences from the men and women of BetterMost.net." You can include my name and address as a contact in case they want to acknowledge.
Of course, anyone who wishes to send flowers on their own should go ahead and do so, following Kerry's lead.
As for driving up to Karrakatta yourself, since I understand it's a 3-hour drive, that would be entirely up to you. But I will say that if you want to do it at some future point and take some photos of the gravesite, we would be very grateful for that. You are a real heroine to us, Peachy! :-* :-* :-*
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Funeral of the Late Heath Ledger
Oh God. :'(
I know they're just words and I'm being a big stupid baby. But these words are just wrong on so many levels.
I know - that really go to me, too! :'( :'(
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Peachy, I say go ahead on your end and have it delivered. Use your judgment about a nice arrangement, not too extravagant, but tastefull. The card could read "With heartfelt condolences from the men and women of BetterMost.net." You can include my name and address as a contact in case they want to acknowledge.
This sounds good and appropriate to me. :) Once more Peachy and Meryl, thank you. :-*
Could you let us know which arrangement you decide on, Peachy - that would be lovely.
Thank you Kerry for diligently looking into this and for taking time to write such a careful and helpful explanation in your post.
*sigh* This is really happening, isn't it? :'(
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N.B., When arranging for delivery of your floral tributes, kindly make allowance for Saturday in Australia being Friday in most of the rest of the world.
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(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/Thank-you.jpg)
To everyone -- Peachy, Kerry, Meryl -- and all who helped on this.
It's comforting to have things taken care of the way you all have during this time of complete sadness for anyone who knows Heath Ledger and knows what a great person we are missing in our world now.
Thank you all for taking the reins and getting things done for all of us in honor of Heath. We appreciate ya'll so much.
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N.B., When arranging for delivery of your floral tributes, kindly make allowance for Saturday in Australia being Friday in most of the rest of the world.
The funeral is February 9th, right? Perhaps specifying the date is safer.
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Done. With message, for the 9th. I chose the Wreath of Indigenous Flowers, bearing in mind people liked the idea of wildflowers. Pictured here:
https://www.interflora.com.au/catalogue/navprod.asp?Page=3&CC=AU&OID=9
Not the most extravagant, at $81.55, but I thought it was suitable. If we need to change the flowers, or the date etc, let me know and I'll contact Interflora ASAP. Thanks again Kerry for your help on this one. The florists will surely know the details. When I next get to Perth, I'd like to visit his gravesite and take a pic, although I expect the media will do that too...
:-*
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That's a beautiful wreath, Peachy. Very nice. :)
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Peachy, thank you so much! The wreath is beautiful. I think I would have made the exact same choice. 8)
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/Wreath-1.jpg)
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Peachy, thank you so much! The wreath is beautiful. I think I would have made the exact same choice. 8)
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/Wreath-1.jpg)
Wonderful job of coordinating all of this Meryl and Peachy!! What an incredible international effort this has been. It's all just so touching to see these gestures of condolence come to fruition. I think it's such a significant and lovely thing to do. And, it's also just so amazing to see the community pull together and contribute to these plans as well.
(http://bestsmileys.com/thankyou/1.gif)
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Just read this on the People.com site, the quote is from Heaths dad. Hope this means that they saw our condolence message.
"We treasure our beautiful granddaughter Matilda (to our dear Michelle) as well as an unbelievably wonderful network of close friends, forever, around the world. Families rarely experience the uplifting, warm and massive outpouring of grief and support as have we, from every corner of the planet. This has deeply and profoundly touched our hearts and lives. We are eternally grateful. "
Peachy- The wreath is absolutly beautiful. Thank you for all that you have done.
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Thank you once more, Meryl, Peachy and Kerry. It really warms my heart to see this collaboration in honor of Heath between Brokies around the globe.
Peachy, like Meryl I would have chosen the exact same flower arrangement. It's beautiful and I love the indigenous flowers.
You've all done very good.
(http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m47/Penthesilea06/Sonstige/WeddingThankYou.jpg)
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I really like the wreath, too! Thanks you!! :)
Pete
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Update: 37 PayPal donations totaling $1,311.91. Four via mail totaling $85.00.
Total Contributions to Date = $1,396.11
Total Disbursed for Expenses = $385.00
Balance Available = $1,011.11
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
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Now that the condolence notices and the flowers have been taken care of by the magnificent Peachy, we are free to think about where to bestow the funds we have left. If we can come up with several specific choices, I can start a poll so we can easily see what the majority would liike to do. It's late, and I'm going to bed soon, but let's work on a list in the next few days. S'alright? :)
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The flowers are beautiful. Thank you so much Peachy.
And Meryl, you're right, there's no rush for making the donation. Big thank you to you too.
(http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m312/Belbbmfan/rosaSweetjulietbedankt.jpg)
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I advised the operator that I wanted to enclose a card with a personal message, the wording of which he assisted me with (at this point of time on the phone, I’m afraid I became somewhat emotional – the operator was very compassionate and understanding).
{{{{Kerry}}}}}
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Peachy, that wreath is absolutely beautiful, and it has the Australian native flowers, like we talked about before, right? Can't thank you enough for taking care of this... :-* :-* :-*
Saturday will be a sad day, I don't think I will be able to do much but think about Heath and shed a lot of tears.
{{{{{Brokies}}}}}}
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Thanks, Peachy and Meryl for coordinating this, Kerry for all the useful information on flowers, and everyone else for all your support. This is just great. I am so happy we achieved three goals: the newpaper ad, the flowers, and now, a generous contribution to a worthy cause! I am so proud of all of us!
L
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(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/Wreath-1.jpg)
I love how the colors mirror Mouk's tulips up in Alberta.
Thanks to Meryl, Peachy and Kerry for your labor of love for our Heath.
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My thanks too. And thank you, Meryl, for keeping that running tally of donations and expenses. I like that it's transparent that way. And thanks to everyone who actually got around to donating. I know how easy it is to intend to donate, and then not quite get around to it. That 41 people actually donated is lovely. And Peachy, thank you for being our intrepid agent "on the ground." And Kerry, for helping us gather our choices.
Big gratitude, from someone who thought we should wait, and was glad to be proven wrong. :-*
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Meryl and Peachy, thank you so much for arranging this, and thanks to Kerry for checking the information. I'm glad we'll be able to send the flowers.
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Wouldn't it be great and meaningful to post a page or a half-page condolence from Bettermostians in the AU local paper ?
Here's one more thank-you, to Chris (BBM-Cat), who put forward the idea for the condolence notice in the second post on this thread! :) 8)
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Here's one more thank-you, to Chris (BBM-Cat), who put forward the idea for the condolence notice in the second post on this thread! :) 8)
To Chris! :)
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To Chris! :)
Yes, to Chris!
and to Mouk, who took the picture!
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Thank you SO very much....Meryl and Peachy, for your wonderful efforts to honor our Dear Heath! Somehow it helps my broken heart to see it. Nancy (((((((((((((Brokies)))))))))))))
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Hey Verona, please don't feel obligated to contribute if in any way it would be a hardship. No one would want you to do that. If you really want to contribute, please just send a small amount that won't cause any harm to your budget. Your thoughts are enough. :)
To the organizers: has the decision been made yet about what to do with the balance of donations?
:-*
Thankyou Kerry, meryl, peachy for all the info.
Verona, I like your idea - perhaps we could donate a third to to a local Brooklyn kids organisation or AIDs organisation or community theatre group, a third to an aids charity and a third to a kids charity?
I was wondering about the possibility about us maybe making a donation in his name to a school or organization in Brooklyn, where Heath chose to settle with his new family (and to where most of us believe he would have returned). I have no specific ideas, it's just a thought.
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http://www.clyouththeatre.org/html/index.htm
http://www.bax.org/about.html
http://www.pdmperformingarts.com/MainSite.swf
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Hi guys
Haven't been here in a while. Lo and behold, ya'll are doing something for the Ledgers, which I have so been wanting to do. I'm real late though. I guess I can still donate, right?
BTW you've prob'ly already talked about cards etc, but: I have an address for Heath's Australian publicist. Theresa Shell says Ms Brown (the publicist) is in touch with the Ledgers, and that cards etc sent to Ms brown will get to the Ledgers. I don't know though -- do you think the ledgers will feel they have to read them all? much less reply? Quite a bit of work. But Theresa thought a card was fine, so think I'll send one.
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Hi guys
Haven't been here in a while. Lo and behold, ya'll are doing something for the Ledgers, which I have so been wanting to do. I'm real late though. I guess I can still donate, right?
I only chipped in last night, so you're good! :D Whew, at least I wasn't the last one after all... ;D
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Update: 39 PayPal donations totaling $1,359.66. Four via mail totaling $85.00.
Total Contributions to Date = $1,444.66
Total Disbursed for Expenses = $385.00
Balance Available = $1,059.66
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
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and to Mouk, who took the picture!
To moukie! :)
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Again, I thank Meryl, Peachy, Kerry, Mouk, and Chris for doing such a beautiful job for our beloved Heath and the picture, the wreath, and the comforting words were awesome. :)
I also want to thank fellow Brokies:
{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{BROKIES}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}
As for the funeral :'( Rest In Peace dear Heath.
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I've just been watching the Saturday evening news here in Sydney and they reported that following the memorial service for Heath, he was cremated at Fremantle Cemetery, where only 10 members of the immediate family attended.
For those of you who are concerned that perhaps the BetterMost floral tribute went to the wrong address, Fremantle Cemetery is administered by the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board, who also administer Karrakatta Cemetery.
When I placed my order with Interflora, I explained to them that I did not know exactly when the funeral would take place. They took contact particulars for the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board from me, including their phone number, and explained to me that they would liaise with them to ascertain the exact date of the funeral to ensure that my flowers would be delivered to the right place at the right time. They specifically advised me that they would phone me if there was any difficulty with the delivery.
Interflora has an excellent reputation here in Australia. As I have not heard from them, I can only assume that my delivery went through successfully. I will, however, be phoning them some time in the next couple of days, to ensure that my tribute was delivered successfully.
I am sure that any floral tributes being delivered by Interflora, including those from BetterMost, arranged by Peachy, would receive the same treatment and be redirected accordingly.
I am guessing that though Heath was cremated at Fremantle, it is likely that his remains will still be interred at Karrakatta, with his grandparents. I have no way of knowing this for sure, at this point of time. Full particulars, I expect, will be revealed in time.
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I've just been watching the Saturday evening news here in Sydney and they reported that following the memorial service for Heath, he was cremated at Fremantle Cemetery, where only 10 members of the immediate family attended.
For those of you who are concerned that perhaps the BetterMost floral tribute went to the wrong address, Fremantle Cemetery is administered by the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board, who also administer Karrakatta Cemetery.
When I placed my order with Interflora, I explained to them that I did not know exactly when the funeral would take place. They took contact particulars for the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board from me, including their phone number, and explained to me that they would liaise with them to ascertain the exact date of the funeral to ensure that my flowers would be delivered to the right place at the right time. They specifically advised me that they would phone me if there was any difficulty with the delivery.
Interflora has an excellent reputation here in Australia. As I have not heard from them, I can only assume that my delivery went through successfully. I will, however, be phoning them some time in the next couple of days, to ensure that my tribute was delivered successfully.
I am sure that any floral tributes being delivered by Interflora, including those from BetterMost, arranged by Peachy, would receive the same treatment and be redirected accordingly.
I am guessing that though Heath was cremated at Fremantle, it is likely that his remains will still be interred at Karrakatta, with his grandparents. I have no way of knowing this for sure, at this point of time. Full particulars, I expect, will be revealed in time.
{{{KERRY}}}
Poor Heath!!! :'( :'(
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Thank you for the update, Kerry. They did well to keep that secret. Oh dear, it's so final. :(
Edit: Oh, I see the memorial service was at Penrhos College. Choppers and media everywhere, obviously from the news. Good of Cate Blanchett to go.
And as the news reporter said, he was surrounded by friends today...
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I've just been watching the Saturday evening news here in Sydney and they reported that following the memorial service for Heath, he was cremated at Fremantle Cemetery, where only 10 members of the immediate family attended.
For those of you who are concerned that perhaps the BetterMost floral tribute went to the wrong address, Fremantle Cemetery is administered by the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board, who also administer Karrakatta Cemetery.
When I placed my order with Interflora, I explained to them that I did not know exactly when the funeral would take place. They took contact particulars for the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board from me, including their phone number, and explained to me that they would liaise with them to ascertain the exact date of the funeral to ensure that my flowers would be delivered to the right place at the right time. They specifically advised me that they would phone me if there was any difficulty with the delivery.
Interflora has an excellent reputation here in Australia. As I have not heard from them, I can only assume that my delivery went through successfully. I will, however, be phoning them some time in the next couple of days, to ensure that my tribute was delivered successfully.
I am sure that any floral tributes being delivered by Interflora, including those from BetterMost, arranged by Peachy, would receive the same treatment and be redirected accordingly.
I am guessing that though Heath was cremated at Fremantle, it is likely that his remains will still be interred at Karrakatta, with his grandparents. I have no way of knowing this for sure, at this point of time. Full particulars, I expect, will be revealed in time.
My God it breaks your heart to read this.....he,s been cremated already, he,s really gone. :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
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My God it breaks your heart to read this.....he,s been cremated already, he,s really gone. :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
I agree....it's so FINAL! Our dear Sweet HEATH....is gone!! It STILL seems unreal to me.
He'll ALWAYS sit lightly inside our hearts.
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Hey Meryl and Mel, I wonder if we should update the title of this thread to reflect where we're at now?
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"Cremated" - such a very final word. It hit me hard. Nothing left now, except memories and images and films.
:'(
*sigh*
Thank you Kerry for explaining about the wreath of flowers and that it probably found its way to the right place despite the earlier semi-public info being inaccurate. Is there any way to be sure?
I suppose it's time to decide where our donation should go. Being so far from either NYC or Australia I have little specific input as to relevant charities, but as before I think the donation should go to something to do with kids who need support, either due to ill health or to develop their gift of creativity.
I was wondering whether there might be some way of donating to an organization working to improve the lives of Australian indigenous (aboriginal) kids. From the (far too) little I know some or many of them live in quite poor conditions.They are Heath's fellow countrymen...He was uneasy with the superficial glitz and glamour of Hollywood - well, they live their lives as far from that as it's possible to get....
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I suppose it's time to decide where our donation should go. Being so far from either NYC or Australia I have little specific input as to relevant charities, but as before I think the donation should go to something to do with kids who need support, either due to ill health or to develop their gift of creativity.
I was wondering whether there might be some way of donating to an organization working to improve the lives of Australian indigenous (aboriginal) kids. From the (far too) little I know some or many of them live in quite poor conditions.They are Heath's fellow countrymen...He was uneasy with the superficial glitz and glamour of Hollywood - well, they live their lives as far from that as it's possible to get....
I like this. What if we give to an organization in Perth, and to an organization in Brooklyn? And maybe to a gay youth organization in Wyoming?
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I think we should limit ourselves to donating to one or two organizations, seeing that what we've got is ca USD 1,000 in the balance. Just IMO, of course.
Peachy, Kerry, if you're reading this, is there any well-reputed organization working with aboriginal kids you could suggest to us? I suppose we need something more concrete of a suggestion before it goes into the poll that Meryl is planning.
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I like this. What if we give to an organization in Perth, and to an organization in Brooklyn? And maybe to a gay youth organization in Wyoming?
i thought the brookylyn org was a good one - I posted some links earlier in the thread to a few youth theatres in Brooklyn I found.
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I've just been watching the Saturday evening news here in Sydney and they reported that following the memorial service for Heath, he was cremated at Fremantle Cemetery, where only 10 members of the immediate family attended.
For those of you who are concerned that perhaps the BetterMost floral tribute went to the wrong address, Fremantle Cemetery is administered by the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board, who also administer Karrakatta Cemetery.
When I placed my order with Interflora, I explained to them that I did not know exactly when the funeral would take place. They took contact particulars for the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board from me, including their phone number, and explained to me that they would liaise with them to ascertain the exact date of the funeral to ensure that my flowers would be delivered to the right place at the right time. They specifically advised me that they would phone me if there was any difficulty with the delivery.
Interflora has an excellent reputation here in Australia. As I have not heard from them, I can only assume that my delivery went through successfully. I will, however, be phoning them some time in the next couple of days, to ensure that my tribute was delivered successfully.
I am sure that any floral tributes being delivered by Interflora, including those from BetterMost, arranged by Peachy, would receive the same treatment and be redirected accordingly.
I am guessing that though Heath was cremated at Fremantle, it is likely that his remains will still be interred at Karrakatta, with his grandparents. I have no way of knowing this for sure, at this point of time. Full particulars, I expect, will be revealed in time.
{{{{{Kerry}}}}}
Thanks for the info...
I woke up in the middle of the night coughing and totally disoriented and thinking of Heath... I felt so sad...
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Cremated -- Like Jack Twist -- except Heath's with loving family members.
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Mikaela, regarding donations: I saw that Princess Margaret Hospital for Children in Perth put in a newspaper notice for Heath. I expect he supported them either with a visit or a donation. PMH is often a charity of choice in WA.
For Aboriginal children, I've found www.reconciliation.org.au, which is Australia-wide but might be able to direct funds to WA. One of its directors visited my town recently so I could even try to contact him if necessary.
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For Aboriginal children, I've found www.reconciliation.org.au, which is Australia-wide but might be able to direct funds to WA. One of its directors visited my town recently so I could even try to contact him if necessary.
http://canberra.yourguide.com.au/news/local/general/indigenous-apology-welcomed/1172761.html
31 January 2008 - 9:24AM
Indigenous apology welcomed
Danielle Cronin
The Federal Government's decision to apologise to the Stolen Generations would be a significant step towards healing, according to Ngunnawal elder Matilda House, who will play a pivotal role in the historic event.
Indigenous Affairs Minister Jenny Macklin announced yesterday the Government would make the formal apology on February 13.
"A national apology to the Stolen Generations and their families is a first, necessary step to move forward from the past," Ms Macklin said.
"The apology will be made on behalf of the Australian Government and does not attribute guilt to the current generation of Australian people."
Ms House said the apology meant "everything".
"This is part of the reconciliation of Aboriginal and non-indigenous Australians," she said.
"It will be the beginning of a healing process for people on both sides and the acknowledgment of what had happened in the past."
Ms Macklin announced that Ms House would deliver the welcome to country in the Members Hall at Parliament House on February 12.
"A welcome to country is about paying respect to the traditional owners of a particular region [and] this welcome will carry national significance in symbolising a future of respect and partnership with indigenous people," she said.
The welcome to country would be part of the official opening ceremony for Parliament.
Ms House a mother of four and grandmother of 12 said it was a first. "An Aboriginal person has never, ever done this before so it is historical. It's something that will go down in history," she said.
Ms Macklin said she would continue to "consult widely" to come up with the wording for the formal apology which would be the "first item of business" for the new Parliament.
She hoped there would be bipartisan support for the apology, but the Coalition was making no commitments yesterday.
Opposition spokesman on indigenous affairs Tony Abbott doubted the Government could find words that would "satisfy the more zealous indigenous activists without deeply disconcerting many other people".
"And I think it would be fair to say we don't regard this as anything like the highest priority in indigenous affairs," Mr Abbott said.
Opposition Leader Brendan Nelson wanted to see the proposed wording for the formal apology.
"With something that is going to divide our country or potentially divide our country, I just sort of say to [Prime Minister Kevin] Rudd I think it would be sensible to hasten slowly on this," Dr Nelson said.
"And at the very least ... let all Australians just have a look at what's being proposed and, as I say, I haven't seen it yet."
Mr Rudd said the apology was "unfinished business" for the nation.
"It's building a bridge of respect which I think has been in some state of disrepair in recent decades," he said.
"But having crossed that bridge, the other part of it is all about practical business. Closing the gap in terms of life expectancy, infant mortality, skills attainments and health outcomes for indigenous people, is the core business."
Stolen Generations Alliance's Christine King was "overwhelmed" the Government had finally set the date to say sorry.
She said it was important the word "sorry" actually be used in the apology. "Sorry is the most important word because it has great meaning in our community, it means having empathy and compassion and understanding."
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"Cremated" - such a very final word. It hit me hard. Nothing left now, except memories and images and films.
:'(
*sigh*
Thank you Kerry for explaining about the wreath of flowers and that it probably found its way to the right place despite the earlier semi-public info being inaccurate. Is there any way to be sure?
I suppose it's time to decide where our donation should go. Being so far from either NYC or Australia I have little specific input as to relevant charities, but as before I think the donation should go to something to do with kids who need support, either due to ill health or to develop their gift of creativity.
I was wondering whether there might be some way of donating to an organization working to improve the lives of Australian indigenous (aboriginal) kids. From the (far too) little I know some or many of them live in quite poor conditions.They are Heath's fellow countrymen...He was uneasy with the superficial glitz and glamour of Hollywood - well, they live their lives as far from that as it's possible to get....
When I placed my order with Interflora, I was given a reference number. I will be phoning them in the next couple of days, quoting that number, and seeking confirmation that my floral tribute was delivered to the appropriate address at the appropriate time. Suggest Peachy do likewise re the BetterMost tribute. Interflora would have also given Peachy a reference number when she placed the BetterMost order.
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Mikaela, regarding donations: I saw that Princess Margaret Hospital for Children in Perth put in a newspaper notice for Heath. I expect he supported them either with a visit or a donation. PMH is often a charity of choice in WA.
For Aboriginal children, I've found www.reconciliation.org.au, which is Australia-wide but might be able to direct funds to WA. One of its directors visited my town recently so I could even try to contact him if necessary.
From what I've read in the press, the charities Heath supported were HIV and sick children.
For that reason I would veer towards donating to the Princess Margaret Hospital for Children in Perth, as Peachy mentioned.
We only have K$1 so IMHO I feel it would be best to donate to just one charity, rather than dividing it up among several.
Though it is certainly a noble sentiment to consider donating to aboriginal children, was this one of Heath's charities?
If it should be decided to donate to aboriginal children, I work closely with the aboriginal health unit within the health facility where I work. I am on a first-name basis with the director of the aboriginal health unit. I would be honoured to liaise with her, on BetterMost's behalf, to obtain the names of suitable aboriginal health children's services in Western Australia.
However, before doing so, I think we must seriously consider where Heath would want the funds to be donated, not where we think they should go, IMHO.
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Oh - DAMMIT!
Kerry, you'd better check - I've got an email that they couldn't process my order. :( :( I wish they'd phoned me! I hope yours went through at least.
I'm so, so sorry, Brokies. :( :( I hate telling you this.
So should I either put it through again for the cemetery at some point, or send the money back to you, Meryl? If it would help, I can pay for a wreath myself.
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From what I've read in the press, the charities Heath supported were HIV and sick children.
[ ] Though it is certainly a noble sentiment to consider donating to aboriginal children, was this one of Heath's charities?
[ ]
However, before doing so, I think we must seriously consider where Heath would want the funds to be donated, not where we think they should go, IMHO.
I agree with you of course, I've got no axe to grind here. My reason for proposing this was given in my previous post. :)
Unless Heath worked very actively for some specific charity though (and I don't think he did?), or his family says something specific now after the funeral about where donations might go in Heath's honour, I think suitable suggestions from Brokies should be allowed to be put forward.... I don't know if Heath supported aboriginal kid &health issues - but I can't imagine he'd be opposed or wouldn't approve to such a donation in his name - one that in a way was tied to his Aussie heritage and his interests both.
I would be honoured to liaise with her, on BetterMost's behalf, to obtain the names of suitable aboriginal health children's services in Western Australia.
This sounds like a very good ide, that would ensure a donation made would reach someone who could really use it. Thank you! :) I think I'd like to propose that, then, as one of the possible donations we vote for.
(Peachy, thank you for the Reconciliation Australia LInk. I had a look at their site and their objective sounds good, but it doesn't seem they've got any concrete kid-related projects that seem fitting that might be donated to.)
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Oh - DAMMIT!
Kerry, you'd better check - I've got an email that they couldn't process my order. :( :( I wish they'd phoned me! I hope yours went through at least.
I'm so, so sorry, Brokies. :( :( I hate telling you this.
So should I either put it through again for the cemetery at some point, or send the money back to you, Meryl?
Oh, bummer. :-\ You did what you could with the information we had available Peachy - so thank you. :-*
I'll leave this up to Meryl to decide....
Personally I would like for the order to be put through again for the cemetery. It doesn't matter that the flowers are not there at the day of the funeral... but I would like to think that flowers from us are laid down by his resting place at one point.
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Oh - DAMMIT!
Kerry, you'd better check - I've got an email that they couldn't process my order. :( :( I wish they'd phoned me! I hope yours went through at least.
I'm so, so sorry, Brokies. :( :( I hate telling you this.
So should I either put it through again for the cemetery at some point, or send the money back to you, Meryl? If it would help, I can pay for a wreath myself.
Oh, that's very disappointing. But it's certainly not your fault, Peachy. You made a valiant effort to do the best you could with the limited information that was released to us. I certainly don't think you should be lumbered with the cost.
I didn't give Interflora my e-mail address, when I placed my order. I gave them my mobile number and they assured me they would phone me if there was a problem with the delivery. I haven't received a call from them, so I'm hoping my flowers were delivered. The question is, I guess, where were they delivered to?
I've just checked my chargecard statement online and the Interflora debit was charged to my account yesterday. I'll phone their freecall number tomorrow morning.
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Oh - DAMMIT!
Kerry, you'd better check - I've got an email that they couldn't process my order. :( :( I wish they'd phoned me! I hope yours went through at least.
I'm so, so sorry, Brokies. :( :( I hate telling you this.
So should I either put it through again for the cemetery at some point, or send the money back to you, Meryl? If it would help, I can pay for a wreath myself.
Peachy, don't beat yourself up. You've done a wonderful job with all of this. Thank you.
As for a donation, I think it should be given to a group/organization/charity in Australia. Yes, Heath did live in Brooklyn, but it obvious that his roots are firmly planted in his home country.
We know he supported causes for AIDS and children. Is there a group in Australia that combines the two? Here in the US we have the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation...is there something similar in Australia?
L
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I just did a search, MaineWriter. There’s the AIDS Trust of Australia which helps children.
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Or we could give it to kids and AIDS in Africa....they could use every dime they get.....kids are kids around the world.......
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I just did a search, MaineWriter. There’s the AIDS Trust of Australia which helps children.
Thanks, Peachy.
Whatever we come up with, I am sure it will be a fine choice.
L
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Oh - DAMMIT!
Kerry, you'd better check - I've got an email that they couldn't process my order. :( :( I wish they'd phoned me! I hope yours went through at least.
I'm so, so sorry, Brokies. :( :( I hate telling you this.
So should I either put it through again for the cemetery at some point, or send the money back to you, Meryl? If it would help, I can pay for a wreath myself.
Peachy, just speaking for myself here, I wouldn't worry too much - you did the best you could!
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Personally I would like for the order to be put through again for the cemetery. It doesn't matter that the flowers are not there at the day of the funeral... but I would like to think that flowers from us are laid down by his resting place at one point.
I echo the above suggestion.
Also, Peachy, don't worry about not being able to send the wreath, it's not your fault at all.
As for the donation, I agree with Leslie, Heath clearly loves Australia very much, it will be very fitting that the donation goes to an organization/charity in Australia.
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Just my 2 cents on the donation,
in all honesty, I think Heath would be fine with whatever choice we make... certainly never knew him personally, but he seemed to me such a genuine person, I don't think he would begrudge any heartfelt, genuine choice... I guess what I am trying to say, is I don't think we need to worry about doing specifically what Heath would want. I think that if what feels right to us, is supporting a charity a Heath supported, or supporting children in his native country, or supporting arts-based organization, then that should be fine. I personally think Heath would support any gesture of goodwill.
Hopefully that makes sense, and doesn't come across as argumentative...
:-\
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Kids and AIDS i Australia, fine with me...........kids are kids around the world!
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Kids and AIDS i Australia, fine with me...........kids are kids around the world!
This is true!
L
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Peachy I just saw your post about the flowers, but I'm not sure what happened. What does it mean that they couldn't process your order?
Bummer, I know, but don't feel like it's your fault. You did exactly what you should have! I think it would be fine to send the flowers to the cemetery instead. Don't send the money back, and don't by any means pay for it yourself.
I'm very disappointed in Interflora for missing the boat and not letting you know in time. Let me know if they provide any further explanation.
Thanks for your suggestions about charities. I'll try to get a poll up today so we can start making a decision.
No worries, we'll get it done!
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Oh - DAMMIT!
Kerry, you'd better check - I've got an email that they couldn't process my order. :( :( I wish they'd phoned me! I hope yours went through at least.
I'm so, so sorry, Brokies. :( :( I hate telling you this.
So should I either put it through again for the cemetery at some point, or send the money back to you, Meryl? If it would help, I can pay for a wreath myself.
I just phoned Interflora on their freecall number, the same number I placed my order through last Thursday.
I quoted the order number I was given last Thursday and the operator advised me that my order had been delivered.
I explained to her that the cemetery had changed from Karrakatta to Fremantle, since I placed my order, and was phoning today to seek confirmation where my floral tribute had been sent.
She put me on hold while she tried to contact the florist who had been assigned my order. It's 10am Sunday morning here in Sydney, meaning it's 7am in Perth, so she couldn't get through to the Perth florist.
She again assured me that their records indicate my flowers were delivered and assured me that someone from Interflora would phone me as soon as they made contact with the florist - probably Monday morning. She took my mobile number.
I checked my chargecard statement on-line and the cost of the flowers has been debited to my account.
As soon as I hear back from Interflora, I will post the outcome here.
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Peachy, no one could have done all of this better than you.... :-*
Don't be so hard on your self, you have done everything possible :)
Berit
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(http://cache2.gettyimages.com/xc/79677179.jpg?v=1&c=NewsMaker&k=2&d=17A4AD9FDB9CF1935121260197D6DE78388047C6AC40FB70)
It's the thought that counts.
:)
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Sent you an email, Meryl. I'm glad yours were delivered Kerry! I'm blaming myself because the error was apparently with my credit card - I have plenty of credit so maybe I put in a wrong number. I don't know. I can't really blame Interflora if it's my mistake. So it's the sin bin for me today.
I hope we find out where Heath's remains are finally laid to rest, so then we can still get flowers delivered.
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(((Peachy))) :-*
This article here (towards the end) says:
Following the service, 10 family members were given a police escort to Fremantle Cemetery for the cremation. [ ]
Ledger's ashes will be interred in a family plot at the cemetery, next to those of two of his grandparents.
http://www.news.com.au/entertainment/story/0,26278,23189271-10388,00.html
~~Maeg
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Sent you an email, Meryl. I'm glad yours were delivered Kerry! I'm blaming myself because the error was apparently with my credit card - I have plenty of credit so maybe I put in a wrong number. I don't know. I can't really blame Interflora if it's my mistake. So it's the sin bin for me today.
I hope we find out where Heath's remains are finally laid to rest, so then we can still get flowers delivered.
Well, for some reason, it was meant to be that way, Peachy. Don't worry! It will all work out for the best. :-*
I have to admit I'm still not sure where Heath's ashes have been interred, since the news accounts seem to differ or not be really specific. Hopefully, it will become clear soon, and we can have some flowers sent to the resting place.
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The thought that Heath has now been cremated still absolutely astounds me... with all the resonance that has with BBM. Who would have ever thought it would come to this.
:'( :'( :'(
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Peachy, you did all that you could do and like others have said for whatever reason this is the way it was meant to be. Definitely do not beat yourself up over this. I hope you know how much we all appreciate everything you have done!!!
Jack
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The thought that Heath has now been cremated still absolutely astounds me... with all the resonance that has with BBM. Who would have ever thought it would come to this.
:'( :'( :'(
{{{{{Amanda}}}}
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The thought that Heath has now been cremated still absolutely astounds me... with all the resonance that has with BBM. Who would have ever thought it would come to this.
:'( :'( :'(
I know what you mean. When I read that, it felt like somebody took a sack of bricks and punched me in the stomach with it. I felt like saying OOOOOF! It literally knocked the breath out of me.
He's really gone! Not just in a spiritual and metaphysical sense, but quite literally and phyiscally too. I can't even bear to think of our Heath as nothing but ashes now. It breaks my heart. :'( :'( :'(
There are so many things suddenly coming together now between Heath and BBM in a MOST unpleasant way. :(
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Peachy, I agree with all others: don't beat yourself up over it. You have done very good and we all are so thankful to you! :-*
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I know what you mean. When I read that, it felt like somebody took a sack of bricks and punched me in the stomach with it. I felt like saying OOOOOF! It literally knocked the breath out of me.
He's really gone! Not just in a spiritual and metaphysical sense, but quite literally and phyiscally too. I can't even bear to think of our Heath as nothing but ashes now. It breaks my heart. :'( :'( :'(
It was the same for me. I personally always had an averseness against being cremated and one of the reasons is the thought that nothing is left. I know many people prefer it this way, but for me it has always been a dreadful thought. I don't want to think of Heath this way. :'( :'( :'(
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Just my 2 cents on the donation,
in all honesty, I think Heath would be fine with whatever choice we make... certainly never knew him personally, but he seemed to me such a genuine person, I don't think he would begrudge any heartfelt, genuine choice... I guess what I am trying to say, is I don't think we need to worry about doing specifically what Heath would want. I think that if what feels right to us, is supporting a charity a Heath supported, or supporting children in his native country, or supporting arts-based organization, then that should be fine. I personally think Heath would support any gesture of goodwill.
Hopefully that makes sense, and doesn't come across as argumentative...
:-\
very true!
Peachy - you did a fine job - no sin bin for you.
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Peachy, don't blame yourself - you did your very best and the choice of flowers was beautiful. And you kept all of us busy, feeling we were doing something for Heath. This really helped too. As somebody else said, it's the thought that counts. Without you, we would not have had the opportunity even to try. So, a big thank you to you :-*
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I know what you mean. When I read that, it felt like somebody took a sack of bricks and punched me in the stomach with it. I felt like saying OOOOOF! It literally knocked the breath out of me.
He's really gone! Not just in a spiritual and metaphysical sense, but quite literally and phyiscally too. I can't even bear to think of our Heath as nothing but ashes now. It breaks my heart. :'( :'( :'(
There are so many things suddenly coming together now between Heath and BBM in a MOST unpleasant way. :(
aww, David... Heath is much more than ashes, try not to despair... It may help to think of cremation as actually a freeing of his soul...
ps - Chrissi... a hug to you, too... wishing I could do something to bring you a little comfort.
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As to which charity or charities we would like our donation to go to, I'd like to suggest that we wait a week or so to see if the Ledger family designates a specific charity.
Thanks again, Meryl, Peachy, and Mouk for your efforts in honoring Heath's memory.
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Peachy, I felt so sad to read that you were distressed by this happening! Don't you worry about this, OK! You did so much for us! :-*
We can always send the flowers to the cemetery anyway, right? Does it matter if the flowers arrive later? Could we have flowers delivered there on his birthday, for instance? Or is that unappropriate?
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Peachy, I felt so sad to read that you were distressed by this happening! Don't you worry about this, OK! You did so much for us! :-*
We can always send the flowers to the cemetery anyway, right? Does it matter if the flowers arrive later? Could we have flowers delivered there on his birthday, for instance? Or is that unappropriate?
I think that'd be nice, Melissa.
Peachy -- we are so obliged to you; don't worry about that, okay? None of us could have done so much with the beautiful ad.
Stuff happens to all of us. We understand. ;)
{{{{{{{{{{PEACHY}}}}}}}}}} Thanks for all you've done for us and for Heath.
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I really think that putting flowers on the grave on his birthday is a wonderful, wonderful idea :). If possible I could think of doing that every year......not much and not expensive, just to show that he and what he did and BBM aren't forgotten.....
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I really think that putting flowers on the grave on his birthday is a wonderful, wonderful idea :). If possible I could think of doing that every year......not much and not expensive, just to show that he and what he did and BBM aren't forgotten.....
I second that motion!
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Very, very nice idea, about doing it every year
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Peachy, I felt so sad to read that you were distressed by this happening! Don't you worry about this, OK! You did so much for us! :-*
We can always send the flowers to the cemetery anyway, right? Does it matter if the flowers arrive later? Could we have flowers delivered there on his birthday, for instance? Or is that unappropriate?
I think that's a wonderful idea, Melissa. Would be lovely to place flowers on his grave every birthday, too. :) :'(
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I really think that putting flowers on the grave on his birthday is a wonderful, wonderful idea :). If possible I could think of doing that every year......not much and not expensive, just to show that he and what he did and BBM aren't forgotten.....
I totally agee that this is a fantastic idea!!! I also think Melissa's idea about flowers for his birthday is also great. I would go along with both of these ideas for sure.
Jack
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Something tells me we'll be sending flowers on Heath's birthday! ;) Great idea, Melissa! :-*
Update: 40 PayPal donations totaling $1,386.34. Four via mail totaling $85.00.
Total Contributions to Date = $1,471.34
Total Disbursed for Expenses = $385.00
Balance Available = $1,086.34
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
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Something tells me we'll be sending flowers on Heath's birthday! ;) Great idea, Melissa! :-*
Update: 40 PayPal donations totaling $1,386.34. Four via mail totaling $85.00.
Total Contributions to Date = $1,471.34
Total Disbursed for Expenses = $385.00
Balance Available = $1,086.34
To would-be contributors: Go here (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16585.msg322330.html#msg322330) for instructions on how to donate.
We've been looking for a suitable charity to donate our left-over funds to. I wonder if we may have already found it. Perhaps the funds we've collected could be held in a special account to cover flowers for Heath's grave each birthday in future? Maybe we could also send a pretty little posy to Matilda on each of her birthdays in future, too. The K$1 we've collected would cover the cost for at least 5 years. Perhaps a special thread could be opened for this, allowing people to donate on an on-going basis, so we'll always have sufficient funds, way into the future.
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Okay, I got a poll up about where to donate the funds. We've got twelve options at present, so I've asked everyone to choose three. Once we have three, we can have a final vote. S'alright? :)
Poll is here: http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,17229.msg332913.html#msg332913
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I voted for three items:
Acting programs for kids in Australia
Acting programs for kids in Brooklyn
Ongoing flower fund for Heath's resting place
I agree whatever the voters choose at the end.
Thank you for the good options, Meryl!
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I voted too and like John said, I'll be happy with whatever we choose. Everything on the list was a good choice.
Thanks for all your hard work, Meryl.
Leslie
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Thanks, John and Leslie! :-*
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I'm just getting caught up with this thread. . .
Peachy, you done good - not to worry!
I also like the idea of flowers delivered each year on Heath's birthday.
Pete
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Peachy and Kerry, a favor to ask: could one of you find out for sure if Heath has been laid to rest in Fremantle Cemetery? Or is he at Karrakatta as an earlier article stated?
If we can find this out, then maybe one of you could call and see if it's possible to have flowers delivered there, and if they save any cards that accompany the flowers to give to the family. I would love to be able to make this happen so our minds will be at ease about it.
Thanks, dears. :-*
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At the last minute, I also decided to do some damage to my savings account (I make rash financial decisions late at night), and send flowers to Karrakatta as instructed. I got this email from Interflora afterwards:
Our florist has contacted us to advise that due to the requested privacy of the funeral the Karrakatta Cemetery will not disclose the time of the funeral service. We can advise our florist to deliver your order as early as possible on 9th February and advise the cemetery attendant to pass the flowers on at the relevant time
But despite this suggestion that the burial would indeed be at Karrakatta, all evidence points to him having been interred at Fremantle instead, and not one report mentions that Karrakatta was involved at all. So I emailed Interflora last night and got this response:
I have chased up your order with the executing florist. Your order was delivered to the requested cemetery quite early on the morning of the 9th. There they were placed at an allocated tribute area and a book signed on your behalf. To the best of our florists knowledge this was in keeping with the Ledger family's wishes.
This seems odd to me, as everything from the newspapers to Wikipedia to FindaGrave has changed Karrakatta to Fremantle. Has anyone else been in touch with Interflora? What story did you get? I'm about to contact Karrakatta and ask what actually became of all the flowers we sent, and if the family received the cards that accompanied the flowers. I have a funny feeling that they'll just tell us what we want to hear, though.
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Louise posted on another thread...the crematorium is at Freemantle and that is where they had the very small service for 10 family members. But his cremains were interred at Karrakatta, with other members of his family.
L
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At the last minute, I also decided to do some damage to my savings account (I make rash financial decisions late at night), and send flowers to Karrakatta as instructed. I got this email from Interflora afterwards:
Our florist has contacted us to advise that due to the requested privacy of the funeral the Karrakatta Cemetery will not disclose the time of the funeral service. We can advise our florist to deliver your order as early as possible on 9th February and advise the cemetery attendant to pass the flowers on at the relevant time
But despite this suggestion that the burial would indeed be at Karrakatta, all evidence points to him having been interred at Fremantle instead, and not one report mentions that Karrakatta was involved at all. So I emailed Interflora last night and got this response:
I have chased up your order with the executing florist. Your order was delivered to the requested cemetery quite early on the morning of the 9th. There they were placed at an allocated tribute area and a book signed on your behalf. To the best of our florists knowledge this was in keeping with the Ledger family's wishes.
This seems odd to me, as everything from the newspapers to Wikipedia to FindaGrave has changed Karrakatta to Fremantle. Has anyone else been in touch with Interflora? What story did you get? I'm about to contact Karrakatta and ask what actually became of all the flowers we sent, and if the family received the cards that accompanied the flowers. I have a funny feeling that they'll just tell us what we want to hear, though.
I have been trying to follow-up with Interflora to find out where my flowers eventually went.
I placed my order last Thursday over the phone, requesting that it be sent to Karrakatta.
There had been no mention of Fremantle until the day of the funeral itself.
I phoned Interflora on Sunday morning and they returned my call on Monday. I was advised that my flowers had been delivered to Karrakatta "with many other floral tributes."
Interflora could not provide me with any further details; i.e., what the ultimate destination was, of my flowers and card addressed to "Mr Kim Ledger & Family."
So, yesterday I phoned the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board in Perth on 61893835200 - www.mcb.wa.gov.au They administer Karrakatta and Fremantle Cemeteries, as well as three other cemeteries in Perth.
I asked if I could be advised where all the flowers that had been delivered to Karrakatta had eventually ended up. That was yesterday. I'm still awaiting their response. I won't let it drop. I will continue to chase them until such time as they provide me with a satisfactory response. Once they've done so, I will post that information here.
Re the issue of where Heath's remains are interred, from what I understand, it doesn't necessarily matter where a cremation takes place in relation to the final resting place of the remains. It doesn't follow that just because someone is cremated at Freemantle, that that is where the interment will take place. Jack, for example ended-up in both Texas and Wyoming.
I guess what I'm trying to say is that even though the cremation took place at Fremantle, the ashes are usually collected by the next of kin and disposed of in accordance with the wishes of the deceased (or the next of kin, if the death is sudden/unexpected). For example, my wishes are that my ashes be scattered into the Pacific Ocean on a full-moon night, off the headland at the Sydney beach where I grew up. However, the cremation will take place nowhere near that beach.
Which perhaps raises another issue. It may have been Heath's wish to have his ashes scattered. If that's the case, it is highly likely that only the immediate family will know the location.
As soon as I hear from the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board, I will post the outcome here.
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It may well be that in their endeaviours to keep the funeral as private as Heath would have wanted it, the family turned the media's and the world's attention to Karrakatta so they could quietly slip off to Fremantle and not be disturbed. This would be totally understandable. And, according to what Verona says, they knew that tributes would pour into Karratatta and made special arrangements for receiving them, with the tribute area and the book so that people like us are not disappointed. If this is what happened, we can only praise and admire them, once more, for being highly courteous and thoughtful towards the outside world even in the depth of their sorrow.
I guess we will eventually know where Heath is resting. Perhaps they have concerns for him right now because of the haters, and want to protect him for as long as they feel necessary. Or perhaps they scattered him in the sea that he loved so much, hence the symbolical swim 'with him' and send off on the beach. Perhaps we will never know.
But where his body is does not matter so much, or does it? His spirit is there, everywhere, and with us and within us, this is what really counts, isn't it?
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I have been trying to follow-up with Interflora to find out where my flowers eventually went.
I placed my order last Thursday over the phone, requesting that it be sent to Karrakatta.
There had been no mention of Fremantle until the day of the funeral itself.
I phoned Interflora on Sunday morning and they returned my call on Monday. I was advised that my flowers had been delivered to Karrakatta "with many other floral tributes."
Interflora could not provide me with any further details; i.e., what the ultimate destination was, of my flowers and card addressed to "Mr Kim Ledger & Family."
So, yesterday I phoned the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board in Perth on 61893835200 - www.mcb.wa.gov.au They administer Karrakatta and Fremantle Cemeteries, as well as three other cemeteries in Perth.
I asked if I could be advised where all the flowers that had been delivered to Karrakatta had eventually ended up. That was yesterday. I'm still awaiting their response. I won't let it drop. I will continue to chase them until such time as they provide me with a satisfactory response. Once they've done so, I will post that information here.
Re the issue of where Heath's remains are interred, from what I understand, it doesn't necessarily matter where a cremation takes place in relation to the final resting place of the remains. It doesn't follow that just because someone is cremated at Freemantle, that that is where the interment will take place. Jack, for example ended-up in both Texas and Wyoming.
I guess what I'm trying to say is that even though the cremation took place at Fremantle, the ashes are usually collected by the next of kin and disposed of in accordance with the wishes of the deceased (or the next of kin, if the death is sudden/unexpected). For example, my wishes are that my ashes be scattered into the Pacific Ocean on a full-moon night, off the headland at the Sydney beach where I grew up. However, the cremation will take place nowhere near that beach.
Which perhaps raises another issue. It may have been Heath's wish to have his ashes scattered. If that's the case, it is highly likely that only the immediate family will know the location.
As soon as I hear from the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board, I will post the outcome here.
The reports I read said that his cremains were interred at Fremantle, alongside his grandparents in the family plot. But Karrakatta obviously knew their name was at the center of things, and that they'd be receiving tributes. I think most likely our names were inscribed in a guestbook, cards discarded and a lot of lonely graves at Karrakatta were unexpectedly beautified on Saturday... which isn't necessarily a bad thing.
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The reports I read said that his cremains were interred at Fremantle, alongside his grandparents in the family plot. But Karrakatta obviously knew their name was at the center of things, and that they'd be receiving tributes. I think most likely our names were inscribed in a guestbook, cards discarded and a lot of lonely graves at Karrakatta were unexpectedly beautified on Saturday... which isn't necessarily a bad thing.
Such flowers are usually distributed to local hospitals and nursing homes, from what I understand, which would give lots of sad, lonely, elderly folks much happiness. I'm sure our Heath would endorse that with a hearty smile and a wink. ;) :)
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My understanding is that Heath's grandparents were buried at Karrakatta - the West ran a pic of the graves. But I don't know where Heath's ashes are/have been placed. I would like to find out too just so we can place the flowers somewhere. I do like the idea of the birthday flowers. If the ashes were scattered at Cottesloe, we could always have a wreath floated on the sea!
PS {{{{Brokies!}}}}
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Heath's Wikipedia entry has been changed again... last night it said he was buried next to his grandparents at Fremantle Cemetery. Now it says this:
Following the memorial, Ledger's body was cremated at Fremantle Cemetery; a funeral for ten members of his immediate family followed, and then his ashes were "scattered in a family plot at Karrakatta Cemetery, next to two of his grandparents
The entry for Fremantle still says this, however:
On February 9, 2008, the cremated remains of actor Heath Ledger were buried here.
An Australian news site reported this:
Following the service, 10 family members were given a police escort to Fremantle Cemetery for the cremation. Security was intense, with the windows of the small chapel blacked out... Ledger's ashes will be interred in a family plot at the cemetery, next to those of two of his grandparents.
In other words...
??? ??? ???
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Heath's Wikipedia entry has been changed again... last night it said he was buried next to his grandparents at Fremantle Cemetery. Now it says this:
Following the memorial, Ledger's body was cremated at Fremantle Cemetery; a funeral for ten members of his immediate family followed, and then his ashes were "scattered in a family plot at Karrakatta Cemetery, next to two of his grandparents
The entry for Fremantle still says this, however:
On February 9, 2008, the cremated remains of actor Heath Ledger were buried here.
An Australian news site reported this:
Following the service, 10 family members were given a police escort to Fremantle Cemetery for the cremation. Security was intense, with the windows of the small chapel blacked out... Ledger's ashes will be interred in a family plot at the cemetery, next to those of two of his grandparents.
In other words...
??? ??? ???
I saw a photo of the graves of Heath's grandparents at Karrakatta, somewhere on the internet, over the past fortnight and they weren't "graves," as such, at all. They were three small brass commemorative plaques, situated close to the ground, located in a rose garden. That's one of the options for disposal of ashes, offered by crematoria here in Australia. The ashes are scattered in a rose garden and a small plaque is erected at the site.
If this is what's happened with Heath's remains, it will be difficult to deliver a floral tribute on his birthday, because there's no real place to leave flowers. I like Peachy's idea to float a wreath at Cottesloe Beach on Heath's birthday. Apparently Cottesloe Beach was one of his favourite places.
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I love the idea of floating a wreath (or other flowers - loose flowers might be easier to scatter?) at Cottesloe Beach.
It would be even more perfect if we could all run into the water, but that's probably not practical.
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hey everyone,
Just wanted to let you all know that I did some digging, and Heath's grandparents are indeed buried at Karrakatta. So our flowers were sent to the right place after all.
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hey everyone,
Just wanted to let you all know that I did some digging, and Heath's grandparents are indeed buried at Karrakatta. So our flowers were sent to the right place after all.
Thanks, Verona. I guess we should assume that those are the grandparents in question, though there is another set of 'em somewhere. Did you search for Kim's parents or Sally's?
We haven't actually sent flowers yet. Peachy's order didn't go through, so we're waiting to see if we can send them to the gravesite.
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Thanks, Verona. I guess we should assume that those are the grandparents in question, though there is another set of 'em somewhere. Did you search for Kim's parents or Sally's?
We haven't actually sent flowers yet. Peachy's order didn't go through, so we're waiting to see if we can send them to the gravesite.
I was only able to find Kim's parents, both of whom I was able to confirm were cremated and are interred at Karrakatta.
Kerry sent flowers, right?
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I was only able to find Kim's parents, both of whom I was able to confirm were cremated and are interred at Karrakatta.
Kerry sent flowers, right?
Yes, and they probably went to Karrakatta, but I think he's still waiting to get confirmation.
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OK, his maternal grandparents are either still living, or are not buried in Australia.
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I was only able to find Kim's parents, both of whom I was able to confirm were cremated and are interred at Karrakatta.
Kerry sent flowers, right?
I arranged for flowers to be delivered through Interflora. I have since been in contact with Interflora and they have assured me that my flowers were delivered to Karrakatta "with many other floral tributes." It is my understanding (through another thread here at BetterMost) that a condolences book was set-up at Karrakatta and the details from the cards accompanying the floral tributes were written in the book. I am presuming this was done by the undertakers (funeral directors) engaged by the Ledger family. I have no knowledge what became of the flowers or cards themselves at this point of time. I'm still on the case, however, and am presently awaiting responses from Interflora and the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board (who administer both Karrakatta and Fremantle Cemeteries, among others), specifically asking them this question:
Did my floral tribute and card, addressed to Mr Kim Ledger & Family, which was delivered to Karrakatta Cemetery by Interflora on Saturday 9 February 2008, for the funeral of the Late Health Ledger, reach the intended addressee on the card; i.e., Mr Kim Ledger & Family? If not, kindly advise what became of my floral tribute and card? (my name and home address were recorded on the card by Interflora)
I will post the outcome as soon as I receive responses from Interflora and the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board.
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I arranged for flowers to be delivered through Interflora. I have since been in contact with Interflora and they have assured me that my flowers were delivered to Karrakatta "with many other floral tributes." It is my understanding (through another thread here at BetterMost) that a condolences book was set-up at Karrakatta and the details from the cards accompanying the floral tributes were written in the book. I am presuming this was done by the undertakers (funeral directors) engaged by the Ledger family. I have no knowledge what became of the flowers or cards themselves at this point of time. I'm still on the case, however, and am presently awaiting responses from Interflora and the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board (who administer both Karrakatta and Fremantle Cemeteries, among others), specifically asking them this question:
Did my floral tribute and card, addressed to Mr Kim Ledger & Family, which was delivered to Karrakatta Cemetery by Interflora on Saturday 9 February 2008, for the funeral of the Late Health Ledger, reach the intended addressee on the card; i.e., Mr Kim Ledger & Family? If not, kindly advise what became of my floral tribute and card? (my name and home address were recorded on the card by Interflora)
I will post the outcome as soon as I receive responses from Interflora and the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board.
The flowers did go to Karrakatta, which at least we now know was his final resting place. What became of the cards is anyone's guess... I'm hoping they were all given to the family (as I'm sure there were many heartfelt messages on the cards) as opposed to just a list of names.
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This is the floral tribute I sent. It's called a Petite Sympathy Basket in the Interflora catalogue. :'(
Because it appears that the BetterMost flowers didn't get through, in a spirit of love and fraternity at this sad time, I would like everyone here at BetterMost to consider that these flowers were sent from all of us, not just from me alone. :-* :-* :-*
(http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o126/kez4oz/Album%201/Interflora-827.jpg)
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I sent the heart with the white lilies, and I too sent it in the spirit of love and fraternity... I signed it on behalf of "the world," and the heart was to symbolize the love and light he inspired and encouraged in all of us.
The BetterMost flowers can still be sent! I'm sure there is no shortage of tributes being sent to the cemetery, as it is just a few days after the funeral. They're probably still making their way through the first influx. The man was truly loved.
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Kerry and Verona, you're the best. Thanks, buds. :-* :-* :-*
So what's the consensus? Should I have Peachy send some flowers to Karrakatta?
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Kerry and Verona, you're the best. Thanks, buds. :-* :-* :-*
So what's the consensus? Should I have Peachy send some flowers to Karrakatta?
I would be pleased to go with the consensus, but would like to give Interflora and the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board a day or two more to get back to me with their responses to my query, before committing more funds IMHO.
When Peachy does place the order, could I suggest that she do so via the Interflora freecall number 1800 808 500, rather than via the Interflora website? By doing so, the operator at Interflora will be able to advise if the order can be accepted or not, prior to committing funds. Just a thought.
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Kerry and Verona, you're the best. Thanks, buds. :-* :-* :-*
So what's the consensus? Should I have Peachy send some flowers to Karrakatta?
It would be nice to know that the tribute will actually reach the family. Perhaps Karrakatta can tell us if they are still accepting floral tributes and keeping the guestbook and/or forwarding cards to the family. It's hard to imagine that they've already packed it all away, considering the sheer volume of tributes they must be dealing with (and still expecting).
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Okay, let's wait a bit, then confirm by a phone call that the family will get the card that we send with the flowers. 8)
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If Peachy has no joy by phone, the folks at this email address:
[email protected]
have been incredibly diligent and helpful in terms of taking it upon themselves to chase down details (such as finding out about the tribute area and the condolence book) for me. So just in case the phone call proves fruitless, the customer care email address might be another option.
:)
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Just speaking for myself - I feel done with the flowers idea. The info on where to send them was never released, and I don't feel like pushing for info that wasn't freely given. I loved our beautiful tribute in the paper with mouk's very meaningful photo and I feel satisfied. I want to thank everyone who worked on this.
I look forward to seeing what we come up with in the coming weeks for honoring Heath's birthday.
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Just speaking for myself - I feel done with the flowers idea. The info on where to send them was never released, and I don't feel like pushing for info that wasn't freely given. I loved our beautiful tribute in the paper with mouk's very meaningful photo and I feel satisfied. I want to thank everyone who worked on this.
I look forward to seeing what we come up with in the coming weeks for honoring Heath's birthday.
I agree Elle.
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and I agree, too
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Have any decisions been made on the flowers? Are we still going to send them on his birthday, at least this year?
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Have any decisions been made on the flowers? Are we still going to send them on his birthday, at least this year?
No decision yet, Melissa. I'm hoping Kerry will be able to find out for sure where Heath's resting place is so we can send our belated flowers.
As for the birthday flowers, I think the consensus is that we make that a separate effort. Maybe in March someone can start a thread asking for contributions for that.
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No decision yet, Melissa. I'm hoping Kerry will be able to find out for sure where Heath's resting place is so we can send our belated flowers.
As for the birthday flowers, I think the consensus is that we make that a separate effort. Maybe in March someone can start a thread asking for contributions for that.
As someone who suggested we make future birthday flowers a separate effort, I actually feel good about using some of the donations so far for this year's birthday. Either way works for me for this year's birthday flowers - either using what we already have, or taking up a separate collection.
I guess I thought this year's birthday flowers were a given, since we originally donated the money for flowers and the condolence notice, and any extra to go to one or more favorite charities of Heath's. Since we did not wind up sending the condolence flowers, we still have that amount available.
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I guess I thought this year's birthday flowers were a given, since we originally donated the money for flowers and the condolence notice, and any extra to go to one or more favorite charities of Heath's. Since we did not wind up sending the condolence flowers, we still have that amount available.
That's what I thought too.
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I guess I thought this year's birthday flowers were a given, since we originally donated the money for flowers and the condolence notice, and any extra to go to one or more favorite charities of Heath's. Since we did not wind up sending the condolence flowers, we still have that amount available.
I thought so, too.
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I haven't been on here for a few weeks but have been catching up on some of the posts i missed. While reading the last 15 pages on this thread i had tears in my eyes . it still amazes me how thoughtful and caring every one on here is.
I am glad that Kerry and Verona's flower tributes seem to of been delivered ok, so sorry Peachy that you had trouble placing the other order but you and every one else has done a remarkable job so far :-*.
I love the idea of sending flowers or something to honor Heath's birthday.
Quote from: jstephens9 on 04-02-2008, 04:09:17
Bec, where did you get the picture of Heath that you are using for your avatar? I don't think I have that picture and it is a GREAT one.
Not sure if you still wanted to know where i got the pic from since it's been awhile but i just realized i got it at IMDB but for some reason i cant get any of the pictures of heath to load (Probably just my temperamental computer) so i don't know which of the 5 pages it's on, but it's there somewhere
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I guess I thought this year's birthday flowers were a given, since we originally donated the money for flowers and the condolence notice, and any extra to go to one or more favorite charities of Heath's.
That's what I thought too - and this is what I'd like us to do if we can only find out where to send the flowers.
Perhaps, if we cannot find it out, there's a possibility to ask the one of the BM members who lives closest to Perth to buy a wreath and float it from the beach (you all know which one). That would also be a lovely gesture of remembrance IMO.
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I agree with this plan-- birthday flowers this year, either to the cemetary or at Cottlesloe Beach.
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I thought so too.......that the flowers were a done deal this year.
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Although the birthday flowers were not originally intended to be a part of this fund, it seems to be the popular sentiment that we should take out money for that purpose this year.
I suggest that we postpone giving flowers at all until Heath's birthday on April 4, since it isn't all that far away and we haven't been able to ascertain exactly where his resting place is so far. I can have Peachy send back the flower money to me, and at the proper time I can contact Interflora and have them delivered, since it's not necessary to be local to do that.
Let me know your opinions on this, especially if you still feel strongly that we should send flowers now.
In the meantime, everyone who contributed or still means to contribute should vote in the narrowed-down poll: http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,17551.0.html
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What Meryl suggested.
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What Meryl suggested.
I agree. Thanks for pursuing this, Meryl.
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Friends, I have ordered flowers for Heath to be delivered on his birthday. 8)
Thanks to the information that Kerry so helpfully supplied, I sent an arrangement to Karrakatta Cemetery via Interflora. I looked at lots of arrangements on their website and finally settled on one that had 24 roses (I liked the association with "Coming through on the 24th") in cheerful colors. I thought roses would be nice, especially since Matilda's middle name is Rose. The arrangement is titled "Caress" and is $131.55 Australian.
A sensational basket of 24 mixed roses interspersed with green ivy and draped in ribbon.
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/Caressarrangement.jpg)
The message I asked to be put on the card reads:
We're keeping you in our thoughts, Heath, as we celebrate your life and work on your birthday.
With much love and gratitude, your Friends at BetterMost.net.
We've had so many polls lately, I thought it would be best just to make a straighforward choice that I felt honored our feelings for Heath. I hope this meets with your approval! :-*
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Oh, I almost forgot about this. Meryl, I am glad you post this now, just in time ...
Meryl, thank you so much for all the works you have done on this matter. My deepest thanks to you.
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Friends, I have ordered flowers for Heath to be delivered on his birthday. 8)
This ain't no little thing you're doin here... Thank you so much Meryl :-*. I'm very happy (even if happy is not exactly the right word) you got this done in time for all of us.
I'm doing alright, I really do. But your words on the card made me cry again. :'(
Edited later: I also love the 24 roses; and the arrangement looks beautiful.
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I was sitting on the train this morning thinking about this and reminding myself to check the thread, and there it is, Meryl's message! It's beautiful, Meryl, thank you for doing this! :-*
Crying a little now, though.... it's all so real now...
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Meryl - this is just AWESOME
Your choice looks absolutely beautiful
It is the colors Heath loves
and the whole thinking you have put into it is wonderful:
the roses because of Matilda, Heath's greatest joy
24 because of the Reunion, Ennis's most joyful moment
Besides, ivy is an evergreen - always alive
Reunion, Caress - we wish, we wish
As for the words on the card... you could not have chosen better
Thank you so much, dear Friend
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Meryl - you are the best! Excellent! *smooch* :-*
This eases the pain a little bit..
Also, the EUROBROKIE meeting will take place on a 24th too (July though). :D
j. U. d. E.
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What a great choice!
Thank you Meryl!
I think it's beautiful, I hope his family sees them.
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A beautiful floral arrangement and a beautiful message! Thank you, Meryl.
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Thanks Meryl!
:-*
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Oh, this is wonderful, Meryl, perfect in every way. Thank you for doing this.
Leslie
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{{{{{{{Meryl}}}}}}
Thank you so much for doin this everything else you have and continue to do for all of us Brokies!! :)
You choice of arrangement and words were both fantastic!
:-* Pete
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Meryl
What can I say.....
I'm just so happy to be a part of such a beautiful "birthday greeting" to a wonderful actor......
I'm also so utterly happy to have "met"you Meryl, you are a true blessing.
Berit
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Thank you so much for your comments, everyone! It makes me all warm inside to have such wonderful Brokie friends.
I hope his family sees the flowers, too, Lee. And mouk, it's true that the evergreen ivy only adds to the significance. It does make me shed tears to know these flowers are going to his resting place (how unthinkable such a short time ago!), but Heath's birthday will always be something we can celebrate with love and gratitude.
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Emoticons/beatingheart.gif)
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Merly, what everyone else said. And "caress" even is a Brokieism, tangentially. Anyone remember "We can hug on November, caress and nice oak"... :)
Brava, Merly! :-*
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Thanks Meryl.
The floral arrangement is perfect.
{{{{{{{{Meryl}}}}}}}}
{{{{{{{{Brokies}}}}}}
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(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/Caressarrangement.jpg)
These are perfect and lovely, Meryl. You always come through for Brokies. This is a beautiful birthday memorial for Heath.
Thank you and Kerry.
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Thanks from the bottom of this broken Brokie heart to yours.
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(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Heath%20Memory/Caressarrangement.jpg)
They look like sunset in Perth.
Thanks so much, Meryl. :-*
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Thank you meryl!
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I can't believe it's already his birthday in Australia. The flowers must have arrived there already...
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Uhoh.... Meryl, did you hear something about te order for flowers not going through?
http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20188829,00.html?xid=rss-topheadlines (http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20188829,00.html?xid=rss-topheadlines)
Friends Remember Heath Ledger on his 29th Birthday
By Brenda Rodriguez
Originally posted Friday April 04, 2008 02:55 PM EDT
Heath Ledger
As family and friends continue to try to come to grips with Heath Ledger's death in January, Friday marked what would have been the actor's 29th birthday.
"It was an honor to work with him, and I think that he'll always be in people's thoughts," Ledger's Brokeback Mountain costar Kate Mara, who played his older daughter, told PEOPLE at a Beverly Hills event for the Kenneth Cole Awareness Fund. "I think he affected people that he'd never met before."
In Australia, the Ledger family kept a low profile, and there were no notices in the local papers in memoriam.
"It's just a day-by-day thing," says a family source when asked how the Ledgers would be remembering the actor on his birthday. "That's all a private family matter. It's got nothing to do with anyone else."
A person called Karrakatta Cemetery in Perth, where the Ledgers have a family plot, wanting to lay flowers for Heath, but sources there tell PEOPLE that his ashes have not been interred.
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Uhoh.... Meryl, did you hear something about te order for flowers not going through?
A person called Karrakatta Cemetery in Perth, where the Ledgers have a family plot, wanting to lay flowers for Heath, but sources there tell PEOPLE that his ashes have not been interred.
Yes, Melissa, sad to say, I did get this message yesterday from Interflora:
Please be advised that our florist has been in contact with the Karrakatta
Cemetery staff. They advised that - "there's no gravesite yet allocated" for
Heath Ledger. Our florist is aware that Mr Heath Ledger was to be buried
beside his grandparents but cemetery staff are not able to give out these
details, unless we can provide more information ie. the grandparents first
names. We sincerely apologise that our florist cannot locate this gravesite
at this stage.
She suggested sending the order to the family so they can place the flowers
on the gravesite for you but again, we will require their address details to
enable us to do this.
Worst case scenario, we can of course cancel and refund your order if
required. Please confirm how you'd like us to proceed.
Kind regards,
Fabiana, Customer Care
My reply was this:
Dear Fabiana,
Thank you for your reply. I'm extremely disappointed that protocol prevents
your delivering the flowers to the gravesite. It's hardly possible that the
cemetery staff are unaware of where the gravesite is located, but without
their cooperation, it's impossible to proceed.
Since I do not have the address of Heath Ledger's parents or know the names
of the grandparents in question, it seems I'll have to cancel the order and
take the refund you offered.
Thanks again for your efforts to deliver the flowers, and for your message.
So it seems that the Universe is not exactly helping us to give tokens of our love to Heath. Twice we've tried to send flowers and not been successful. Also, it seems we've had no word from the Wirrpanda Foundation about making a donation in his memory (at least Phillip hasn't said they've responded). But that doesn't mean we wont keep trying!
Anyway, the good news is that John Gallagher invited me to breakfast today at the restaurant near Heath's old apartment that he was known to frequent: the Grotta Azzura on Broome Street. We wore striped scarves and bought roses and took pictures. Afterwards, we left the roses at 421 Broome Street, which was overrun with guys moving out furniture and all sorts of lighting equipment. (We wondered if it could possibly be Heath's stuff; but even if it wasn't, it was kind of interestingly symbolic, eh?).
So consider the roses delivered despite all obstacles! ;D
Pictures are posted here: http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,16573.msg357482.html#msg357482
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Awww, the breakfast sounds lovely High Priestess. And, it's so nice that you left flowers at 421 Broome Street. I'm sorry to hear about all the troubles with the flower delivery to the cemetery.
Should we just go ahead and use all the money for charity instead of trying with another flower attempt in Australia?
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According to this article Heath's ashes aren't interred so maybe they're spreading them somewhere pretty and meaningful to Heath.
Anyway, your attempts to have flowers delivered made the news. If this is posted somewhere else, please let me know. Thanks.
Friends Remember Heath Ledger on his 29th Birthday
By Brenda Rodriguez
As family and friends continue to try to come to grips with Heath Ledger's death in January, Friday marked what would have been the actor's 29th birthday.
"It was an honor to work with him, and I think that he'll always be in people's thoughts," Ledger's Brokeback Mountain costar Kate Mara, who played his older daughter, told PEOPLE at a Beverly Hills event for the Kenneth Cole Awareness Fund. "I think he affected people that he'd never met before."
In Australia, the Ledger family kept a low profile, and there were no notices in the local papers in memoriam.
"It's just a day-by-day thing," says a family source when asked how the Ledgers would be remembering the actor on his birthday. "That's all a private family matter. It's got nothing to do with anyone else."
A person called Karrakatta Cemetery in Perth, where the Ledgers have a family plot, wanting to lay flowers for Heath, but sources there tell PEOPLE that his ashes have not been interred.
Difficult to Grasp
A close friend of Ledger's from his hometown says the actor's death of an accidental overdose is still difficult to grasp. "I haven't come to terms with it," says the friend. "I'm just trying to get through it. It has really affected his friends."
And how is his father, Kim, holding up? "He doesn't want to talk about it," the friend tells PEOPLE. "He's a tough guy but he's a private man as well."
Also keeping a low profile was Michelle Williams and 2-year-old daughter Matilda. Williams has kept busy in Boston, working on the film Shutter Island, based on the book.
Meanwhile, the DEA investigation into how Ledger obtained the powerful and addictive painkillers 0xycontin and Vicodin will likely take several more weeks, a DEA source tells PEOPLE.
"Agents are still conducting interviews and are trying to get the proper documents to interview more of Ledger's doctors," the source says.
• Reporting by MELENIE AMBROSE, MARIANNE BILKEY, SHRUTI DHALWALA and NICOLE WEISENSEE EGAN
http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20188829,00.html (http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20188829,00.html)
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So it seems that the Universe is not exactly helping us to give tokens of our love to Heath. Twice we've tried to send flowers and not been successful. Also, it seems we've had no word from the Wirrpanda Foundation about making a donation in his memory (at least Phillip hasn't said they've responded). But that doesn't mean we wont keep trying!
Well, at least we managed to get the notice in the paper with Mouk's beautiful picture!
Thank you for all your hard work on this, Meryl. I sincerely appreciate all you have done.
Leslie
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I'm sorry about the flowers too. Thank you for your efforts in all this, Meryl.
However, I think any remembrance that we have made is significant. Whether it's wearing stripes, changing user names, posting pictures, lighting a candle, just thinking of Heath, it's all good.
Heath's remains aren't important; rather it's how Heath remains with us that is important.
I take particular comfort in the image of Mouk's flowers in Alberta at Campsite #2, and John and Meryl's flowers at 421 Broome.
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Meryl, please don't take this too hard. Even though it is disappointing that we were not able to send the flowers to the gravesite, it's the heart that counts so I guess Heath would understand.
With regard to the donation, whatever will be chosen will be fine by me.
Once again, thanks for all the efforts you have put in this cause.
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Well, at least we managed to get the notice in the paper with Mouk's beautiful picture!
Amen! 8)
Heath's remains aren't important; rather it's how Heath remains with us that is important.
Sure enough. You can say that twice and mean it. :-*
Meryl, please don't take this too hard. Even though it is disappointing that we were not able to send the flowers to the gravesite, it's the heart that counts so I guess Heath would understand.
Thanks, Betty. In the larger scheme of things, I feel sure Heath knows all about our flowers and received them in spirit. :)
Funny thing, after I left John in Soho, I had to dash to make it to a hair appointment, then dash to make it to work on time. By the skin of my teeth, I grabbed two subways and a taxi just when I needed them. I think Heath was sitting on my shoulder to help out. ;)
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:-*
we tried.... thnakyou Meryl...
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What everybody said. Thank you for all your efforts Meryl :-*. It's the thought that counts. You and John made once again the pilgrimage to Broome Street on Heath's birthday. I'm sure Heath smiled on you when you were having brakfast in the restaurant.
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MERYL! JOHN! Thank you so much! Don't worry about the failed delivery! The roses where a lovely idea! So sad though to see that it was all empty were you left them. Life goes on, I guess... :-\
j. U. d. E. :-* :-* :-*