Dave Belanger Writes A Check for $2100

Nov
11


I received a phone call from Dave Belanger a few moments ago. He read my post this morning and he said he also read your comments. He said he felt terrible and he wanted to make it right. He offered to put a check in the mail immediately for $2100. I gave him my address.

I’m in a hurry because I have to go milk my cow! (I’m late!) But I wanted to make this update asap.

Thank you to ALL OF YOU. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!! This happened because YOU told him it was not acceptable. He said he had read up on the Cooks Source scandal, so I would also attribute the quick resolution of this situation to the power of the internet in the Monica Gaudio case. Publishers ARE learning. We done good!





Comments

  1. Tisha@LMPrims says:

    Whoo Hoo!
    Winner winner……
    He should hang his head in shame!
    I’m now going to find some software to mark my photo’s!
    Sucks we have to do this now, THANKS MR. BUTTHEAD! I need another step in my day!
    Tisha

  2. SandyH says:

    Congratulations Suzanne. I am a daily reader of your blog. Glad you stuck to your principles.

  3. Larissa says:

    YAY! Good for Dave for doing the right thing. Congrats to you, Suzanne, and high-five to him.

  4. melissashea68 says:

    Congrats! That is awesome! He is really lucky it didn’t end up in court. With damages he could have been writing a much bigger check!

  5. Stefinity says:

    haha!! Congratulations on your easy win!

  6. Carla says:

    Good on you for sticking to your guns. And thank goodness that he finally saw the light.

  7. Amy Buchanan says:

    Congrats! :sun:

    Wonderful news! His actions have restored my faith in big business and their morals and values!

    I’m sure you will put the money to good use – however I’m also sure it will be used on something very practical and necessary for the farm!

  8. The Farmer's Wife says:

    Awesome! Although there are ways to get around watermarks, we should all be using them! Thank you for posting this ordeal, it has nudged me to be more vigilant in protecting my photography!

    Blessings ~

  9. Karen Anne says:

    Super. This is a big and spreading problem, though.

  10. Melissa Marsh says:

    VICTORY!!!! Congrats, Suzanne!!! :snoopy: You took a stand and fought for the truth. Well done!

  11. Helen says:

    Oh, that’s wonderful, Suzanne…I’m so happy for you, and its so good to see an injustice corrected, too. Its been wonderful to see you go to bat for yourself and the support that you’ve gotten from your readers, and I’m glad that Mr. Belanger finally saw the light and did the right thing. Whether he knows it or not, his previous attitude (like when he hung up on you and wouldn’t admit his wrong-doing) is part of the very world that he was hoping would collapse in 2000, but didn’t.

  12. Jessica says:

    Victory! I am so impressed with your poise and grace through all of this! You have stood up for what is right and ethical against a corporation that is much larger and a little scary. You are an inspiration for all small business owners (because this is your business).
    I am a PR/Journalism major and reading everything that this company did to you made me sick! I am glad Dave Belanger realized his mistake and took responsibility for it! Congratulations Suzanne! You deserve every penny and more!

  13. Merlin says:

    Awesome!!! :snoopy: I’m so happy for you, Suzanne!!!! :woof: Mr. Dave, you did the RIGHT thing and remember to do the RIGHT thing every day!!!

  14. Kelly Myers says:

    Hope everyone that did not support Dave’s wrong doing (rightfully so), will now acknowledge that the right thing is being done. I have been wrong before and thankful that I had the opportunity to make my wrong right.

    No doubt Suzanne was stolen from and then treated horribly! I would have NEVER used my money to support Countryside publications again if this had not been made right!

    Thanks Suzanne for standing up for all artist’s rights! Thank you Countryside Publications for stepping up and doing the right thing and listening to what your readers and Suzanne’s readers have to say! (I would have missed my magazines!) Really, that is all that was wanted. And, I hope Countryside publications never does this again! If they do it will not matter to me if the “make it right” again, I will cease to support them financially.

    WoooooHooooo Suzanne! Thanks for being willing to go to the wall on this one!

    Love,
    Kelly Myers 😆

  15. prayingpup says:

    You sent the right message and I am so proud of you! Congratulations!

  16. Eve Davis says:

    Congratulations, happy for you and Happy that Dave did the right thing, he is a good person after all, he was just a slow learner, but he got it! Glad to hear it for both of you and to know that there is strength in numbers, it is just a shame that we have to fight for what is the right thing.

  17. Maria says:

    Congratulations, Suzanne.

  18. Debbie says:

    Good things can happen when we stand united for a cause!
    Congratulations!

    P.S. I was all ready to be on standby to milk your cow if you had to go to court! (lol)

  19. Clairica Aultman says:

    Ahhhh, his attorney probably informed to quickly write that check. A court case would cost him much more because you would win!

  20. Kelly in TX says:

    WIN.

    I know you’re glad to be putting this behind you…and to have some mail to watch for. 8)

    Great job,everyone!

  21. FarmgirlCyn (Cindy) says:

    VERY thankful you did not have to pursue this in court!!!!
    You go, girl!

  22. Mary says:

    The thing I wonder is, does this guy realize how HIS UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR made the situation worse? Denial, defensiveness, HANGING UP ON YOU… it’s unbelievable. Not caring if customers cancel subscriptions, not caring about the publication’s professional reputation – I’ve never seen this level of cluelessness before in my 7 years of publishing experience. I wondered how he had a job, until I read that he owns the company. That explains it.

    I’m glad he finally got a clue and is making it right. One has to admire someone who can (FINALLY) admit mistakes. However, imagine how much more pleasantly this would have gone if from your first phone call he had been sincere, apologetic, and had offered to remedy the problem. He would have saved time, money, and a big bruise to his reputation.

    Not cool. He needs to grow up, and maybe get some counseling or anger management if he’s going to run a business.

  23. skippymom says:

    YAY! I was just relating the entire story to my husband and he said “Keep me updated” – I was happy that I could tell him in less then 10 minutes that Mr. Belanger made it right.

    I had just called Dave not a half an hour ago.

    Glad it all worked out for the best.

    Take care.

  24. Barbee' says:

    Whew! Finally! The Big Bad Wolf :devil: met his match in our Texas/West Virginia darling! Now maybe I can get something else done besides being glued to the computer reading posts and all the comments that come in on both Suzanne’s case and Cooks Source… (I agree with one writer who wrote he wished they would put a *#@! apostrophe on their name [only he didn’t use cute little symbols].) There have been many people writing and cross linking across the WWW. Yesterday, especially, was quite a day (and night). I think I have grown roots to this chair. I repeat: WHEW! Such drama! 🙂 :snoopy:

  25. hershiesgirl says:

    Oh and I was SO looking forward to seeing “SUZANNE GOES TO COURT” as a blog post. Dave got of easy, I don’t think he’d have fared as well in court. WAY TO GO Suzanne…. for sticking to your guns. The only Chickens in your [yard] Road..are, um……chickens.

  26. Kelly Myers says:

    I would like to add that it was a big chunk of my Christmas budget money I was going to contribute to Suzanne’s legal fund. My boys will be happy Suzanne is getting paid what is AT THE VERY LEAST due her!

    So thankful for Suzanne and sooooooooooo love HER website, HER writings and HER photos!

    Happy you don’t have to go through the legal battle Suzanne, and so grateful you would have! :shimmy:

  27. IowaCowgirl says:

    Congratulations! My day was starting out in a pretty crummy way and this definitely made everything much better. I’m so happy that you came through OK.

  28. Zshawn says:

    Too bad he didn’t step up in the first place. It does take a village to do lots of things. Hope the check will do some good for you and yours!

  29. Kathi N., says:

    I’m happy he stepped up to do the right thing.

    I’m glad you did not back down over your rights.

  30. Joycee says:

    Glad they stepped up and did the right thing. That’s really all you were asking in the first place. No one wants to sue, but you can’t let people run over you. This turned out great for everyone, you set a precedence for all writers who’ve been copied.

  31. LaVonna Gates says:

    Great, Suzanne, I am glad you won out here. I do not know you but feel like you are a family member. I know you make your living providing all of us with your great blog site and that it does not make you a rich woman. If it did you would have a driveway and road to travel in the winter. Humm, how far would that 2100 go towards that?
    Anyway, glad it all worked out. And, if Dave is still reading he might do an article on a very interesting woman for one of his magazines.

  32. Nancy Yeomans says:

    Contact him immediately and request a certifie check. Based on his past performance, I wouldn’t put it past this guy to send a worthless check.

  33. auntbear says:

    we,the people,have spoken :wave:

  34. Minna says:

    Congratulations! :snoopy:

  35. Kate and crew says:

    I haven’t commented on this fiasco yet, but I’ve been reading daily and have been disgusted with Dave’s response. I want DAVE BELANGER and his cohorts to know that many, many people read blogs and rarely or never comment – but it doesn’t mean they aren’t disgusted with how this whole thing went down. I have a blog and might have 10 comments, but I can see that 200 people read the piece – just think about how many people have been following this story, Dave. I’ve forwarded this series of posts to plenty of friends who’ve forwarded it on and so on. I’m glad you made it right after you got called out, but it’s a sad testament to your character that you put a woman through this in the first place…and like many people who struggle with integrity, you only offered to put it right AFTER the cow poo hit the fan.

  36. Paulette says:

    Suzanne, that is the best news! I’m so glad you stuck to your guns and pushed this. It’s too bad they didn’t do the right thing to begin with, but this certainly sends the message that it’s unnacceptable. I’m so happy for your success.

    I read your blog everyday, and don’t comment often, but I truly think you are exceptional and a real inspiration. I wish you continued success and happiness in your life choice.

    And know that you have a loyal, suupportive following out here in cyberland.

  37. Melinda says:

    Well, I am glad it has turned out reasonably well. Of course, the financial reimbursement doesn’t change the fact that you were robbed of your work, but at least it is something.
    I hope this gentleman (and I use the term loosely) has learned a few things. #1. You don’t take someone’s work without asking permission and giving credit. #2. When you do mess up, you admit it up front and ASK WHAT YOU CAN DO TO MAKE IT RIGHT. and finally #3…NEVER TICK OFF A BUNCH OF WOMEN 🙂

  38. skippymom says:

    I like LaVonna’s idea btw – a cover feature on Clover! 🙂 and your awesome cheese.

  39. Susan says:

    hmmmmm…took him a while to feel terrible, didn’t it? LOL 😆

  40. Brenda says:

    Congrats Suzanne and thank you Mr. Belanger for doing the right thing.

  41. CasieD says:

    I’m so glad this has been resolved quickly and to your satisfaction!! But it would have been fun to have you stay with us during your litigation! Oh well… maybe you’ll have another reason to visit central Wisconsin someday, and hopefully for a much more fun reason!

    Congrats!

  42. Kristine says:

    Well, it’s a shame you had to even threaten a lawsuit, but good for Mr. Belanger for (finally) doing the right thing, after making the error of publishing work without permission.

  43. hollygee says:

    Good for you and Good for Dave!

  44. Linda says:

    Yea!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  45. Cheryl says:

    Im glad the big bullies decided to pay up. But i cant give him any kudos or doing so ..finally…not after the way he treated you. No doubt in my mind hes doing just it now to avoid a lawsuit and bad publicity..not because its the *right* thing to do!

    Im only on the fringes of the dairy goat world. I have 3 nubians. But you wont see me ever subscribing to the Dairy Goat World. There are a lot of good honest small country/homesteading magazines that deserve my support.. Dairy goat world sure doesnt!

  46. Sarah Morgan says:

    Wow, as I was writing and sending an email on your behalf, he was fixing it…oh well, still food for thought for him; he can still go check and make sure they gave credit to all photos used, as I suggested to him….Glad he finally accepted his mistakes!

  47. farmershae says:

    I have mixed feelings! Yay for getting what you originally asked for, but also doubt. Doubt that he’s learned his lesson, doubt that he will never do this again and doubt that the publishing community as a whole has learned anything. A lawsuit (especially a winning one) would have set precedent that this behavior will not be tolerated. Now he knows he can still get away with it, just that the price will be a smidge higher. I have no idea what I would do in your situation, but might I suggest not cashing the check until you have had a chance to consult with an intellectual property rights attorney. You will never be able to get back what he took from you (your choice of what to do with your property) but you may make it so he can’t take the same thing from someone else. Just my 2 cents. No matter what you do, you are my favorite chicken lady/farmer/wrangler/homesteader/milkmaid/writer in the world! (and I am still cancelling all my Countryside publications subscriptions and letting my friends know what happened here.)

  48. SarahGrace says:

    Yeah!!! I’m happy for you, Suzanne! Kudos to Dave for the steps he is taking to apologize and pay for their wrong. It’s hard to admit wrong, especially so publicly. I’m glad too, that I don’t need to cancel my subscription. I enjoy Countryside!

  49. Michelle says:

    It’s a shame that it takes what it took for him to learn, instead of just having integrity and a conscience, but hey, it’s SOMETHING!

  50. texwisgirl says:

    I’m glad Mr. Wisconsin publisher redeemed himself, even if it was a little late. Don’t make us Central Wisconsinites look bad, Dave! We’re better than that!

  51. Cathy says:

    Well, good for you, Suzanne! :sheepjump: I’m glad that the situation seems to have been (mostly) resolved. However, I feel bad that, from now on, you’ll probably feel like you need to keep checking his publications, and that you might have to watermark your lovely photos.
    I’ll keep checking back here with you, because it’s not just this situation that has piqued my interest, but also your whole site!

  52. Mary Kellogg says:

    Suzanne, I think you KNOW you can count on your loyal followers to go to bat for you.

    What you provide to us is invaluable. I sort of live the country life thru you (until I retire and can MOVE)

    I still won’t resubscribe to CSSJ!

    I twittered The Today Show and Good Morning American and Drudge report about the situation. I hope they call you.

  53. Lori Skoog says:

    Dave did the right thing…I’m sure our emails and calls helped, but now, we should not beat a dead horse. (Unless you don’t get the check). When someone does what you want, you say thank you and hope they learned a lesson…but you don’t keep pounding them. It’s like having a dog retrieve something for you and smacking him when he brings it back. You have many enthusiastic supporters, but he does not need anymore bad publicity. Personally, I would like to be big about it and will send him an email saying thank you for making it right. This is a classic example, of how public support for you (Suzanne) can have such power. You were very smart to publish the letter you sent to him…really got results in a short period of time.

    Maybe you will be able to sell more of your photographs to all the people who tuned in!

  54. Rose H says:

    One small step….
    I’m very, very pleased that DB has done the right thing (in this instance). I think watermarking your photos is a brilliant idea :yes:

  55. ~Shannon~ says:

    As a blogger I have been following this closely! Good for you! Glad it all worked out!

  56. Donna Schoonover says:

    That is great! I won’t have to let my Countryside magazine subscription lapse like I threatened.

  57. Mel says:

    You ROCK Suzanne!
    Have you heard of Dooce? A while ago she had an issue with her washing machine and after publishing her story on her blog it was finally resolved with the washing machine company. The internet = power for the all, I am glad you used it!!!!!

  58. Darlene in Ks says:

    Great news Suzanne! I think he took yesterday’s first comment to heart….$2100 X number of hits = Suzanne’s new publishing company!

  59. TowLady says:

    Good job, Dave. You may come out of time out now.

  60. Jules says:

    Wow, a good resolution! Good for Dave for admitting he was wrong. Good for you for sticking to your guns. And because a friend linked to your story, I’ve now found your blog, and I love it! I do a lot of these things on a much smaller scale. I wish I had 40 acres too! (But then I’d have to quit my job and wouldn’t therefore have 40 acres… so circular.)

  61. ALF says:

    All right!! Congratulations!!

    You might want to ask him to send you the copy of the apology ahead of time to make sure that it appropriately covers all points. Well done!

  62. bonita says:

    Hats, Horns, Confetti for All! Phew! Will stop sending angry emails, unless, of course the check does not appear.

  63. Chic says:

    OH my…I just read about all this now! Suzanne I’m so glad you stuck to your guns and didn’t get taken advantage of. I’m glad it all worked out in the end and I’m sure a valuable lesson was learned by Mr. B. I doubt very much that he’ll be using someone elses photo without permission from here on in. Enjoy your settlement…I know you’ll put it to good use! :hungry2:

  64. Tanya Miller says:

    AMEN!! I was getting ready to send him a few noisy Roosters in the mail!!! I am so happy for you- way to take a stand!!! Also have to put in a shout out to Dave… Way to man up!! :chicken: :chicken: :chicken: :chicken:

  65. Judy McCormick says:

    Congratulations on the “sale” of one of your photos. :shimmy:

  66. Kris says:

    I would be curious to know what measures Belanger is putting in place to prevent any future repeat offenses. I find it disturbing that a publication in business for so many decades could let this happen. Was it ignorance of intellectual property rights? (Pu-LEEZE!) Was it arrogance? Was it a stupid mistake?

    It would seem to me that if they had a formal policy — and followed such — this could not have happened. It takes a lot to regain public trust, once violated. It would be nice to see this addressed in a future publication of their magazine.

  67. Pony! says:

    Suzanne, I’m delighted that Belanger stepped up and did the right thing, and I’m very impressed that you stuck to your guns. WTG!

    As for him feeling terrible… well, maybe, but… After his previous behavior, I don’t think so. He just figured out what it would have cost him if he wound up in court.

    I won’t be buying any Countryside Publications now or in the future. The way he treated you initially demonstrates the sort of person (not “man”) that he is. IMO, he’s writing the check to make this go away. I don’t for a minute believe he feels that he did anything wrong besides get caught with his hand in the cookie jar.

    Do let us know if the check arrives, and when it clears his bank I’ll do the happy dance of joy with you.

  68. Carrie says:

    Well Dave…now you know!
    Good job Suzanne, I love your website and I would hate for that magazine to have ruined it for all of us. Carry on with the good work!

  69. Leanna says:

    Good deal. I’m glad he’s working with you and doing the right thing. Sorry it had to happen to begin with.

  70. Lynne says:

    Congratulations! 😀

  71. Anita says:

    What a relief to see this resolved in a positive manner. It seems like it took forever, but in reality he acted fairly quickly after realizing what a huge mistake he was making. No more used car sales for him, I hope!

  72. Ashlee M says:

    I’m very happy that Dave decided to do the right thing! I hope the company will now be more careful in getting the permission they need in order to use another person’s copyrighted material.

  73. Heidi says:

    Oh Suzanne! This is wonderful news. I’m glad to hear that he did realize he needed to make this right, not just for you but as an example to all of us.

  74. Amy says:

    Well Done Suzanne!!!

    Is he also going to credit you in the next issue, make that apology you asked for? I hope sure hope so because without that the whole money thing is a little hollow.

  75. Angela P says:

    WHOOO HOOO! The power of many for the right cause!
    Seriously. We should also thank him for accepting responsibility.
    That did take a lot to admit he was wrong….And that he is doing what is right.
    Im so glad this all turned out. Way to go everyone!

  76. PinkyMac says:

    Ha! His lawyers probably told him, “Write the check, you’re getting off cheap.” What a stinker. I am glad the situation is resolved and you stood your ground Suzanne. You are woman, they heard your roar!

  77. Zusiqu says:

    I think it is interesting that he ‘saw the error of his ways’ after coming to your page and seeing all the readers you have the the support you have from us. He probably thought your page was only read by your MOM!

    I’m proud of you for how you handled this.

  78. Wendy Curling says:

    Don’t you just love it when people do the right thing. I am So proud of you for standing up for yourself and everyone else this has happened to. I am proud of Dave, too although it took a little longer for him to see the “right”.

  79. CATRAY44 says:

    I am very glad to read this. We all have opportunities to learn and grow. I am very glad Dave decided to do the right thing.

    Suzanne, you are such a blessing. You have helped so many learn and grow in many ways. I am very thankful for you and your beautiful website.

  80. judydee says:

    I agree with Pony, I’ll do the happy dance (right down the middle of main street!) AFTER the check clears the bank. Hope that’s not too cynical, just realistic as we already know about Dave Belanger’s sense of integrety. I’ll also be alert to any more theft allegations by this company, and willing to support others who may have to fight for what is rightfully due them. All that said, HURRAH!!

  81. Susanne says:

    Hello,

    I’m glad this is resolved, and I think what got us all so agitated was the bully tactics used by Mr. Belanger. Simply not acceptable.

    My email to Dave was simple. I go into his house. I like a picture on his wall. I take it. Theft is theft.

    Susanne

  82. ScreamingSardine says:

    Not to be a downer, but it ain’t over yet. It’ll be over once you get that check, you deposit it, and it clears your account. As unethical as this bozo seems to be, his offer of sending a check might be a stalling tactic.

  83. Betty says:

    Yahoo for you Suzanne, I knew if he checked in and read your blog and knew how many readers you had he would be settling real fast!!

  84. Deborah says:

    YAY! I just saw all these blogs! (I’ve been away from my blogs lately) I am also a professional photographer and do not take kindly to copyright infringement. And I commend you for taking a stand and not letting your photo be stolen and used as someone pleases. Kudos to you and I’m so glad that you made a very big point and won!

  85. jojo says:

    It’s a good thing that Dave decided to stop the insanity and pay up. It’s horrible in the way that he chose to do it. I mean — come on folks….and we wonder about young folks learning right from wrong when I can just about guess that Dave is much older and should know better. He should be setting a positive standard for his employees, and if Ms. Jennifer Stultz errored in judgment, he should have quickly and privately called her on the carpet and then he should have been a good enough leader to apologize. IMO, it showed poor judgment to throw her under the bus. As President Harry S. Truman said: The buck stops with him. Dave, if you are reading this: it is your personal responsibility for the way the magazine is governed.

    Maybe I’m being a little nostalgic right now but what if everyone (especially those in leadership positions) made decisions and worked as though every decision and act they made was open to everyone around them. I can soundly say that our country would not be in the position that it is in right now.

    Thank you Suzanne for standing up for what is right. It’s a tough stance to take, but when one voice joins with many, mighty things can and do happen. Changes can be made.

    Blessings to you and yours.

  86. kellyb says:

    I always told my kids that doing the right thing is harder than doing what’s wrong. Thank you for taking a stand and doing what’s right. Thank you to Dave for making the correct choice as well.

  87. The Retired One says:

    Yay, HORRAY!! I am so glad. He did the right thing….I hope he also said an apology and prints an editorial apology in his magazine to you as well.It is the right thing to do. Besides, $2100 is cheap to get positive P.R. and if he hadn’t had made this right, the bad P.R. would have cost him a LOT more…..He is a smart businessman and knows what will benefit his company. So congratulations to you and to everyone who made this right.

  88. bonita says:

    Yesterday I emailed BBB for Medford ane registered a 3rd party complaint. They responded instantly.
    Today (11th) I received the following, It was sent at 10AM DST:

    The business has sent the BBB a message regarding this complaint, and we are passing it on to you. The contents of this message are below or attached. Please review and advise whether you accept or reject the businesses response and provide an explanation of your position within the next 10 days.

    If the BBB does not receive a response, your complaint will close as Assumed Satisfied.

    Regards,

    Susan Martin
    Trade Practice Consultant
    [email protected]
    Better Business Bureau

    MESSAGE FROM BUSINESS:

    Dairy Goat Journal did inadvertently publish a photo reported to have been taken by Susan McMinn without her consent or knowledge. This error came to our attention yesterday afternoon, today I contacted her to offer our regrets and an apology for the oversight. At Ms. McMinn’s request we agreed to put her photograph on the Dairy Goat Journal website giving her full credit for the photo and a link to her website, and to publish an apology in the next available issue of Dairy Goat Journal. In addition Ms, McMinn was offered cash compensation equal to 10X the amount that would have been paid if her photo had appeared on the premium front cover position.:

    I’m trying to be charitable here, even though DB came across with payment, the text of this message seems to imply he’s still missed the boat. Well, some people are just beyond the pale and there’s no law against that.

    PS: Suzanne, sending link and letter to you FYI

  89. BuckeyeGirl says:

    Suzanne, I think he read your calm, well reasoned comments which are worthy of a lawyer’s dissertation in a courtroom. In fact, any lawyer who deals with this sort of thing would do well to study what you said and take a lesson from it.

    If you were to contact a lawyer with those talking points, he knew he was doomed.

    You’re a hero my friend!!!

  90. Mz E says:

    So glad they stepped up and did the right thing, although it took serious public push to achieve. I really think it’s time to professionally watermark your photos.

  91. Linda Segerson says:

    I am glad he did the right thing!

  92. Donna Mc says:

    Wahoo! Doing the happy dance.

    Sooo glad to see a good ending to this saga. David vs Goliath yet again.

    Congrats Suzanne, and all the blogfolks who spoke up for you. And most of all – BRAVO for standing up for yourself. You rock!!

  93. judyh says:

    Congratulations, Suzanne! You did GOOD!

    Someone told me that today is 52’s birthday. If so, this calls for a party and a double celebration.

  94. northcountrygirl says:

    Hooooray! You did good, Suzanne. Congratulations! I’m glad Mr. Belanger made it right. Too, bad it had to go that far. I’m sooooo glad for you. The internet is a powerful medium and it doesn’t take long for an event to go worldwide! I’m glad it’s resolved.

    Thank you, Mr. Belanger, for doing the right thing. Next time very careful where you get your photos.

  95. Amy I. says:

    The “Power of the Press”…..happy to have it resolved, live in the USA, and Veteran’s Day. Happy Veteran’s Day to all who have served, thank you!

  96. Kelly Walker says:

    WooHoo! You go Girl! So proud that you stood up and proud of all of us “Chicken” followers.

  97. Jane says:

    Thank YOU! Thank you for taking a stand. Thank you for not giving up. Thank you for for allowing me a SMALL part in helping Countryside Publications see the error of their ways and effect change to do better. I am beyond happy for you… and it has nothing to do with the money. Again, you have shown what an inspiration you are, and on today of all days when we honor the veterans, I think of all the sacrifices they made so that we have the rights and freedoms that we do, and (maybe I am a bit emotional today) but you do them proud. You chose to not give up your rights that they fought for. Something, that I may have if the position was reversed, and I THANK YOU for helping me see that. I am grateful every day that I found your site.. so thank you:)

  98. Jeannie says:

    And the little guy wins one…. Good job

    @Leutopian

  99. catslady says:

    Congratulations!!!! He got off cheap. I would have sued as soon as he hung up on you so rudely.

  100. Jane says:

    Happy Birthday to 52!!

  101. Rebecca says:

    Wow! Yeah!!!! You set an awesome example. I’m so glad I get to read your blog everyday.

  102. Christina S. says:

    Woooohoooooo!!!!

    Anic Christmas bonus for you :shimmy:

  103. Christina S. says:

    *a nice Christmas bonus – that was supposed to say :yes:

  104. Cheryl says:

    Congratulations to you and Dave for a great resolution to your problem! To celebrate, I will continue reading your blog obsessively and I will be purchasing a subscription to Dairy Goat Journal.

  105. lizzie says:

    Good job Suzanne!!!! I am so happy for you, the power of people! :woof:

  106. Diane says:

    That is awsome news!!!! He did the right thing. I hope this is a lesson learned and he and his publication will pay closer attention to detail like where their photos come from and who is taking them. You did good. I think a bunch of us learned a lot from your experience.

    I think we need to pay attention to these publications gives credit to where they get their photos and articles from. I am actally amazed that they dont pay closer attention to this. hmm.

  107. Larissa says:

    I got a response email from Countryside:

    Please note this issue has been resolved satisfactorily by all parties concerned. Thank you for your input.

    Cordially,
    Anne-marie

    GOOD FOR THEM! It makes me happy when places take their PR and online presence seriously.

  108. Windflower says:

    Congrats, Suzanne!

    We as a community need to do one more thing. For everyone that wrote and threatened or in fact, cancelled, their subscriptions, please write again and give him a pat on the back for doing the right thing. The best way for good behavior to be repeated is by reinforcing that behavior. The absence of punishment (lawsuit and viral bad publicity)is one type of reinforcement. A BETTER reinforcement is using positive reinforcement. Tell him he did the right thing and as a result he’s keeping a customer.

    If we just leave it as it is, he will probably try the same thing again in the future, hoping to get away with it. If we follow up, he may actually not repeat the behavior. (I’m a teacher, can you tell?) Catch him being good and reinforce it!!

  109. B. Ruth says:

    Well, well…..what we have here was a lost opportunity for Countrywide Publications to make “honey out of vinegar”…
    Had he done the proper thing when first contacted…(whether it was an oversight of his staff (not) or a pure deceitful theft of material…he could have made a lot of the farming community happy with a sincere apology and offer of compensation AT ONCE. That would have shown more character…
    Appears to me that the fatal error was not acting quickley…to restore faith in the company and then reprimanding the editor of The Goat Journal. Sometimes the higher on the ladder the less you see (or don’t want to see) but when there is a slip-up the further you fall!!!
    Hope this is settled for you…and your check is in the mail!

    Former graphic artist retired: I used to the company I worked for paying high dollar payment permission to the original artists work or to a company to use their logos, photos, etc. All trademarks and registrations and copyrights had to be in there proper place and not forgotten either…
    We were always warned and trained….don’t take any short cuts when doing layouts…use clip art if necessary (free most of the time) and if other art is needed be sure to contact the party…Your companies reputation is at at stake as well as thousands of dollars loss if caught. You would be fired if you blantley did so without permission. Oh, and it had to be confirmed on paper from the artist or company thats letting you use said work!

  110. Miss Becky says:

    To Mr. Bolanger, thank you for being an honorable person. Thank you so much. You did good.
    Suzanne, congratulations on seeing this through to a positive, healthy outcome. You have real stamina I tell you. This is an important gain for all of us. We all win here, including Mr. Bolanger himself. :yes: :yes: :yes:

  111. Windflower says:

    My email:

    Dear Mr. Belanger,

    I wanted to write back and thank you for doing the right thing. It speaks well of you and your business that you realized that you made a mistake and are sincere about correcting it. Thanks to you, I’ll continue to enjoy the online articles about goats and may even consider a subscription in my future.

    Sincerely,
    Laurie

  112. DragonLady says:

    Sweet! We know that the “A”(attorney) word scares everyone and this is probably why Dave apologized and agreed to a monetary settlement OUT OF COURT. Regardless, I feel much better for you now, but I still don’t think much of ol’ Dave. I just received an email from Anne-marie Ida, Managing Editor, stating that the issue had been resolved! :devil:

  113. momma-leigh says:

    I am happy for you that this is all behind you now. I still think that he has not learned anything, but I am not his momma, nor wife, to be there to teach him. I agree that the right thing has been done, and I think the best thing now is just to leave it alone. I know that there have been comments about sending letters or faxes to say thank you for doing the right thing, but, the way I see it it would just be rubbing his face in the mud. That is my 2 cents worth.

  114. Janet Gomez says:

    AWESOME! congratulations, and I’m glad you kept up the fight.

  115. lizzie says:

    Hi Suzanne, I just checked my email and Countrywide sent me a note telling me they had resolved the issue with your picture, I thought it was nice of them to let me no! even though I checked CITR this morning. Thank you Mr. Belanger for doing the right thing.

  116. Ruthmarie says:

    Holy cats, just checking in after a week or so and WHAT a grass fire! You are so my hero, Suzanne, for the being the stalwart gal taking on a Goliath and winning another notch for business ethics. Unfortunately, I have serious doubts that anyone at Countryside Publications learned a demmed thing nor was there much conscience in the cut of the check … monetarily he’s getting off easy versus an increasingly public lawsuit. The only lesson this corporate entity is absorbing from the experience is to be more stealthy next time and hopefully keep the grass fire small in spread.

    That so-called standard $100 fee for a cover photo is certainly chickenfeed for the talent behind it ….. but then payment to independent contracts has rarely been fair trade, although the corporates interpret such a scale firmly as Good Business for their bottom line. Nonetheless, this result is certainly a huge uplift for all the independents whose efforts are all too often taken advantage of by cold giants. Say, does anyone have a contact for CNN? … this would be such a lovely David and Goliath story to burn into the end of the week!

  117. Denise :) says:

    Congratulations; I’m glad this was resolved in a manner that was pleasing to you. FYI, I did receive an e-mail from Countryside Magazine, responding to my e-mail on your behalf. It was very polite. Have a GREAT day and Happy Birthday to 52! 🙂

  118. Zusiqu says:

    I got a response from them as well. Clearly, those emails were read by SOMEONE. 😀

  119. rileighsmom1 says:

    Congratulations Suzanne! You should feel so proud of yourself that you stood your ground this entire time. Shame on him for taking this long to back down and try to “make it right”. Go you! :woof:

  120. Elaine says:

    Suzanne, I’m very happy that this was resolved. I received an email from the publisher stating that the matter had been resolved, so I quickly visited your site to make sure you agreed. Obviously the emails we sent were not just going into a black hole.

    Like others, though, I am disgusted and disappointed that things had to go as far as they did before Dave Belanger owned up to the mistake (or was it actually a mistake?) and finally tried to make it right. That doesn’t even address the issue that so many people – lots of whom absolutely should know better – think stealing intellectual property is not theft. Lots more work to do there, but you struck a blow for all of us.

  121. blessings says:

    Congratulations!
    However:
    Dave Belinger may have written the check and knows Not to mess with you, but really who is his next victim? APPEARS, he know realizes that Yes, you have a large following, but what about the other bloggers who may not. Not that your animal photo’s aren’t important so don’t misunderstand me when I say ” what if photo was a person”…
    Sadly, Once a THIEF ~~Always a THIEF!

  122. Charlene says:

    Woo-Hoo! Just got an email from an Ann-Marie Ida, Managing Editor, saying this issue had been resolved. So checked in here to make sure. Glad it worked out this way.

    I’d love to know just how many emails they received about this. lol.

  123. KentuckyFarmGirl says:

    I am so happy that this turned out well Suzanne!

    Dave, I’m glad there are some people out there willing to step up and take responsibility when they find that someone has been wronged!

  124. knancy says:

    Agreeing with ScreamingSardine’s comment #88, I really don’t trust this person. Seems to me there’s a saying reknown for its irony that prefaces with, “The check is in the mail.” Retain that attorney until this is completely resolved. He has already proved his untrustworthiness. Be very, very careful, this guy has no scruples.

  125. Pete says:

    Withholding congratulations until the check has cleared, the appropriate appolgies published, AND it is demonstrated that these clowns are not going to steal from others in the future.

    But I AM happy that this chapter of the drama is complete and that there is perhaps some reason to believe that there will not be a repeat of it any time soon. (You will pardon me if I do not hold my breath??)

    One other point – I’d still have an attorney look at the check and/or any documents which might accompany it to make sure that you are not agreeing to something stupid like no further consideration of legal action should there be attitude displayed in the future which indicates that they are continuing to steal the work of others.

    Just sayin’…

  126. Melissa Marsh says:

    I just got an email from Ann-Marie Ida, too, saying the issue had been resolved. So, so happy for you, Suzanne. 😀

  127. Diane says:

    Good for you! I think it is time that the internet be held as accountable as the print media.

  128. BuckeyeGirl says:

    What a great outcome! :woof:

    I’m hoping that a lesson has been learned. Develop a process for insuring that this doesn’t happen again in any of his publications. Make sure your employees all understand that the intellectual property rights of artists be they writers or photographers need to be respected both in spirit and legally.

  129. Kelleh says:

    I’m glad that he decided to do the right thing. Yay for you!

  130. bonita says:

    just received following response to my email of 10/10 from Anne-marie Ida:
    Dear [Bonita],

    Please note this issue has been resolved satisfactorily by all parties concerned. Thank you for your input.

    Cordially,
    Anne-marie Ida
    Managing Editor
    Countryside & Small Stock Journal
    145 Industrial Dr.
    Medford, WI 54451
    1-800-551-5691
    http://www.countrysidemag.com

  131. Stacy says:

    I just received a response to the e-mail I sent Dairy Goat Journal stating this issue had been resolved. I came over here immediately and I’m very happy to see it really has been resolved. YAY!!!!

  132. Kathy says:

    I got a response to my e-mail from them today. It stated that the issue I e-mailed them about is now resolved. Us little folks can make a difference. :sun:

  133. Joanne Semanie says:

    As a professional photographer I’ve watched this closely. This is something all of us deal with. He did the right thing in sending you the check it’s too bad he had to be pressured to do it. Hopefully whoever was putting his publications together has been let go – what they did was serious and illegal.

  134. Grammie Earth says:

    Dear Pam,

    Please be advised this issue has been resolved by all parties involved. Thank you for your input.

    Cordially,
    Anne-marie Ida
    Managing Editor
    Countryside & Small Stock Journal
    145 Industrial Dr.
    Medford, WI 54451
    1-800-551-5691

    LOL Looks like we all got the same email! Congratulations Suzanne. I am so glad you will be getting that check and can only hope that dear dave has learned a bit of common decency. I’m thinking the duck n buck pen just found its building dollars!

  135. Kelleh says:

    Got an e-mail as well. Looks like they just copy pasted the same reply to all of us. Heh.

  136. Wendy B. says:

    In the spirit of the movie “Jerry McGuire”…..you had him at “Purina.” So glad to hear this is coming to a resolution and, in a way, I’m glad Mr. Belanger is doing so begrudgingly. Now he can experience a bit of the frustration that you’ve felt…if that makes any sense. Great job sticking with it, Suzanne! I’m proud of you!

  137. Mandy says:

    :snoopy: :sun: :happyflower: 😀 :shimmy:

    Need I say more?

  138. ALF says:

    @Wendy, comment 146. I put a note in my e-mail to the journal yesterday noting that I would encourage my friends to contact Dave and contact his advertisers (Purina included) this morning if the situation wasn’t resolved. And I did end up sending 3 letters this morning before Suzanne posted the resolution. I’m guessing others have done the same. If the advertisers pay any attention to the letters, he may be feeling the aftershocks for a little while, which should (hopefully!) further discourage this type of behavior in the future.

  139. Jessica says:

    Happy to see you getting results Suzanne. And happy birthday 52!

  140. Mary says:

    Yaaah, I’m happy to see it is resolved. Good for you, and good for Dave also. I think they learned a big lesson. Happy Birthday to 52.

  141. Alice says:

    Bravo Bravo Bravo Suzanne! Way to show him who’s in the right!

  142. Janus says:

    If he mentioned Cooks Source, he obviously had a very clear idea of what could become his worst nightmare. Any legal action you took could easily have become the least of his worries.

  143. Laura says:

    So glad to read this! I’m going to update last night’s blog post with a link to this, so that anyone who read your story on my blog will know that there was a happy ending. Congratulations!

  144. SuseM says:

    Awesome news, Suzanne! I’m glad you stuck to your guns and Mr. Belanger realized his mistake (once he read up on what the consequences could be for him and his company). I do believe he lacks integrity.

  145. Sheila Z says:

    I’ll be saving congratulations for when the check has cleared and you have a written apology in hand. Mr Belanger is finally saying the right things to you over the phone. Now to see if he follows through with the promised action. I have to say though that I’m not impressed that Belanger is telling people he compensated you 10 times the value of the photo. Who is he to determine the value, that is the photographers right. He obviously can’t afford such fine talent! I hope Belanger is capable of being cured of foot in mouth disease. Do you think they have a vaccine for that yet?

    So glad you stuck to your guns Suzanne!

  146. Drema says:

    Way to go!!! :shimmy:

  147. Sheila Z says:

    HAPPY BIRTHDAY 52!

  148. IowaCowgirl says:

    I suppose everyone has read these, but they are interesting:
    https://www.npr.org/blogs/monkeysee/2010/11/05/131091599/the-day-the-internet-threw-a-righteous-hissyfit-about-copyright-and-pie?sc=fb&cc=fp

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cooks_Source_infringement_controversy

    This is SO condescending –
    “But honestly Monica,…..you should be happy we just didn’t ‘lift’ your whole article and put someone else’s name on it!”

  149. Elaine says:

    You must all be much better people than I am. I think Dave Belanger paid up because it was the most expedient thing to do at this point, not because he finally understood the full depths of what was done to Suzanne and is sorry for it. The resolution still doesn’t truly make things right; it just meets the standard Suzanne set to consider the matter settled and let it go. After all, the original choice about use of her photograph was still taken away from her and the print magazine will be kicking around without credit, possibly for years. But I am very glad Suzanne’s terms were met and the matter can be closed.

  150. annabel52 says:

    Hooray for Suzanne….
    I think ol’Dave contacted his editor and found out how many more photos she has taken from the internet without permission and he rushed to make things right before someone else finds another picture. Ol’ Dave is just covering his butt!!!! Don’t celebrate too much until the check has cleared.
    But still a victory!!!!!!

  151. andrea pierce says:

    I’m so sorry that you had to go through all of this, but thank you for standing up for artists rights. I’m glad he did the right thing in the end, regardless of his reasons for doing it, because you were wronged and not only did you have to deal with the violation of the theft, you then had to deal with being insulted and mocked. For that alone, you earned this. I must say though, that I personally am still not inclined to purchase his magazine because his business ethics are obviously lacking and I would rather put my money towards people who deserve it and work for it. Does the magazine not have it’s own photographers? Hey…perhaps there’s a new job opening for you…lol. Congratulations!

  152. Vicki in So. CA says:

    Yay Suzanne!

    I got the same “form letter” reply this morning, to my email of Nov.9th, from Anne-marie Ida. I’m glad this was finally resolved without going to court. Would hate to have had Beulah Petunia blow up in your absence! Maybe I’m cynical but IMHO Dave Belanger buckled under the internet & email barrage, got the message that things would only get worse, did what was prudent, and got off cheap without attorneys’ fees. Smart move on his part. But, hey – eventually, he got the message!!!

    On another, much more fun subject… HAPPY BIRTHDAY 52! :snoopy:

  153. Mandy says:

    Yay!! I am so happy Suzanne that you are getting what you are entitled too. I know I’ll be watermarking all my photos from now on 🙁

  154. Rose C. says:

    YEA! He knew he was wrong!

  155. Brenda says:

    I am glad this is turning out well for you. I strongly suspect that if you had not had such a big forum it would not have. Please let us know if the check does not arrive or does not clear.

    Hopefully, since this was costly not only in $ but in bad PR, this publisher will quit doing this- and it wouldn’t hurt for other publishers to get the same hint.

    Keep up the good work!

  156. Connie says:

    I knew he did it because I got this response to the email I sent yesterday! –

    Please note this issue has been resolved satisfactorily by all parties concerned. Thank you for your input.

    Cordially,
    Anne-marie Ida
    Managing Editor
    Countryside & Small Stock Journal

  157. jackie c. says:

    Thanking Mr. Belanger for doing what should have been an automatic way of doing business in a reputable publishing company, is not forthcoming from me. How about that sentence? Anyway, great job to Suzanne amd the bloggers. I will say good job to Mr. Dave when the check has arrived and cleared Suzanne’s bank account.
    Feeling a need to hug a goat now.

  158. Vonnie says:

    I wrote to them to tell them about an obscure publisher asking to use a photo I had taken in SF. I would have never seen the photo used, but the point was, they *asked* and I gladly gave it to them with my name credit only. Good to hear that it all worked out! (and, they responded to my email to let me know that the situation was resolved.)

  159. Yvonne says:

    Congratulations, Suzanne and thanks to Dave for sending you a check!

    And…HAPPY BIRTHDAY 52! I’m sure Suzanne will have a wonderful dinner and cake for you! :hungry2: :wave:

  160. LisaAJB says:

    YAY!!!! You go girl! :shimmy:

  161. ElizaRed says:

    Show me the money!!! (photo of check on your site)…want to make sure this guy carries thru!

  162. TufaGirl says:

    I hink he got off easy. Treat those folks like the music industry treats kids downloading music. Make an example out of them!

  163. 4jsMOM says:

    I have a feeling that Mr. Belanger hasn’t changed at all, he was just presented with the facts that he could not dispute. Thanks to you, Suzanne, he couldn’t get away with his dishonesty–this time. You were right to not accept the pitiful offer of $500.

  164. trish says:

    Happy Birthday 52!

  165. Mary Ann says:

    Good save, Dave. Good save.
    :yes:

  166. whaledancer says:

    Thank you, Suzanne, for standing up for your creative property rights. I hope that Dave Belanger has learned that it can be more expensive to exploit people than it is to pay them honestly in the first place. I think you convinced him that this was not going to just go away.

    I hope he will be reviewing the laws concerning copyrights with all of his editors and staff. It’s hard to believe they would stoop to stealing pictures if they only pay $100 for them anyway. They had better realize that now there will be people looking a lot more closely for photo credits on the pictures they use. I hope Dave Belanger realizes he got off easy (only because you AREN’T opportunistic). And I hope he realizes that if he had owned up to their “error” and immediately tried to make it right, instead of trying to bully and intimidate you, this wouldn’t have escalated…but so far he hasn’t shown signs of being quick to accept responsibility for his actions.

    You should feel proud tonight, Suzanne. You stood up for yourself and demanded respect, and you won. Good for you! Treat yourself to some time with your chickens and goats and sheep and donkeys and dogs and cats, and… :sheep:

  167. Mary Kellogg says:

    THE LAST WORD

    Mary
    I found an order that matches your address below but it is under the first name of C***. I have canceled your order and have put in a request for a refund on the remaining issues. A check will be mailed mid next week to you.
    Mr Belanger did apologies to Suzanne and has compensated and credited her for the photo. This was a human error that happened and again the company is very sorry.
    Laura Ching
    Countryside Publications, Fulfillment
    [email protected]
    >
    >
    >
    >> From: Mary Kellogg
    >> Date: November 11, 2010 12:06:18 AM CST
    >> To: [email protected]
    >> Subject: Cancellation of subscription
    >>
    >> – Hide quoted text –
    >> Please cancel my subscription to Countryside and Small Stock Journal immediately.
    >>
    >> I am appalled that your magazine, Dairy Goat Journal, would blatantly commit the theft of intellectual property of Suzanne McMinn. The photograph in question is Ms. McMinn’s property and she should be compensated and credited for the photo. Simply, she deserves an apology from you.
    >>
    >> Ms. McMinn is one of the most beloved bloggers in the rural blogesphere. She deserves compensation for the use of her work.
    >>
    >> You can apply any remaining funds from my subscription to a fund to PAY MS. MCMINN for her work.
    >>
    >> Expect a flood of emails and Facebook/Twitter posts about this.
    >>
    >> Again, CANCEL my subscription.
    >>
    >> Mary Kellogg

  168. Connie W says:

    WAHOO!!! CONGRATS!! I’m glad you stood up for yourself, your work and the fact you didn’t back down to that arrogance. I know how annoying running late can be on a farm, so truly, thank you for taking the time to share this update with us.

  169. Luann says:

    Yea Suzanne, I am so glad you will be receiving your just due. I am also glad that Mr. Belanger decided to do the right thing. I hope he did aplogize to you for his rudeness from yesterday too.When you are honest and do the right thing, blessings will come. :0)

  170. Estella says:

    Wtg, Suzanne! Piracy is NOT ok!

  171. Sarah K says:

    I’m very, very glad that you’re finally getting compensated for your work. It’s an expensive lesson for him, but one that I hope he’s learned well. Unfortunately, I’ve had the opinion for over a decade that journalistic integrity just isn’t what it used to be.

    Happy Birthday to 52!

    Oh, and that Hot Chocolate bread is totally addictive. I’ve made 2 batches already.

  172. Martha in KS says:

    So let’s all meet at the local tavern – SUZANNE’S BUYING!!

    Happy Dance. :snoopy: :snoopy: :snoopy:

  173. Annie says:

    Congrats on your victory!

  174. gladdismom says:

    Suzanne, I’m so glad it’s turned out this way. TRUTH AND JUSTICE RULES!!! Well, at least for a moment, anyway. :shimmy:

    And ya know, I really, really love that photo. Those three bearded gentlemen look so dignified and handsome.

  175. claudia w says:

    Way to go Suzanne!
    Way to man up Mr. Belanger. It should not have happened this way, but I for one am glad that you saw the errors of your ways and made it right by our Suzanne.

  176. Cheryl LeMay says:

    Suzanne, I’m glad it worked out to your liking. The guy’s a snake and only doing it because he knows he’d be taken to the cleaners if a lawyer got involved. I still think you need a lawyer before you cash his check and don’t sign off on anything without a lawyer reviewing it first. I was looking forward to his being pinned to a wall and made a public example of.

  177. Joy says:

    I won’t feel like this case is COMPLETELY closed ’til you have the money in hand and he apologizes (is he supposed to apologize publically in his print magazine?)

    I have subscribed to CS in the real recent past and probably won’t resubscribe. I’m sure there are other good farming mags out there somewhere. (Hey, Suzanne, you should start one!) :yes:

  178. Richelle says:

    Congratulations Suzanne! I’m glad you didn’t have to take him to court. And now you can think of what to do with all that money!

  179. Carmen says:

    I got Anne-Marie Ida’s email as well. Word for word!

  180. Darlene in North Ga says:

    I’m wondering if his sudden change of heart had more to do with seeing that this business was being sent to the same people who, when they found out about Cook Source, went out and found a BUNCH of other items that that publication had lifted. I’m wondering if he was trying to short-circuit that kind of investigation into HIS publication! There may be more “lifted” photos out there that they don’t want uncovered.

    I’m glad he’s offered to pay up. I third the idea to watch your back with him. Thankfully, you’ve had experience with publishing before, so you have some idea of the things to look out for as far as being not in your best interest.

    Happy birthday, 52! I hope you had a great day.

  181. Leah says:

    i ALWAYS DID LIKE THAT PICTURE.

  182. Jenny says:

    It’s good to see this resolved quickly and positively!
    ~Jenny~

  183. Michael Corbin says:

    Yeah for the Good Guys!

    Well played, all. Justice prevails.

  184. margaret rusnak says:

    Congrats on the resolution! Kinda’ wish you had gone to court…was starting to daydream of a barn raising financed by the goat picture thief. I still love the picture.

  185. Jen in ID says:

    Things like the following *really* bug me. Probably shouldn’t read them, oh well – too late. To suggest Suzanne was looking for a “payer” is insulting; heck, most of his statements are insulting! Dave Belanger IS ultimately responsible for his publications…doesn’t matter WHO did the lifting. From https://onlinejournalismblog.com/2010/11/10/cooks-source-mob-moves-on-to-dairy-goat-journals-dave-belanger/

    “Jerri Cook on November 12, 2010 at 3:50 pm
    00 Rate This
    Just a brief response to some of the hysterical hens. Dave is not the editor. He’s the publisher. He rarely gets involved with content, trusting his staff to do their job correctly.

    Dave didn’t steal anything. Such accusations are defamatory and mean-spirited. The phone call in question was handled as professionally as it could be. The caller started making accusations and demands without allowing for further investigation.

    Further, Ms. McMinn (I believe this his her name) has profited wildly from this dust up. I’m not sure what harm she can point to, certainly not financial. She and her readers continue to defame Dave. (No, I’m not a lawyer, yet. I am a law student who will be sitting for the exam soon.)

    I wonder why the attacks focus only on Dave, and not the editor of DGJ? Could it be because Dave has been identified as the payer? (That’s the first thing they teach you the first day of Torts–identify a payer. Everyone else is inconsequential.) Of course this is the case. Were it not, Ms. McMinn would have demanded a public statement. She didn’t. It’s not about principles. It’s about money, straight up.”

    • Suzanne McMinn says:

      Jen, wow. Was “Jerri” in on the call? Because I don’t know how he could know what went on in the call if he wasn’t listening in. Dave Belanger himself apologized to me for his behavior during that call. In any case (not going to even address the claims that I was trying to profit off this), the reason the focus became Dave Belanger is because Jennifer Stultz did not return my call so I have had no communication with her. I wasn’t looking for a “payer” but just looking for someone at the magazine who would speak to me, and that was Dave Belanger. He took responsibility for handling the matter. I don’t believe I have defamed him, and he himself made no complaints about what I posted about him or our conversations. In fact, in our conversation yesterday, Dave thanked me for the way I handled it because I never attacked him and was polite with him on the phone. (I do believe Mr. Belanger felt as if some commenters attacked him, but he didn’t blame me for that.) However, I realize that everyone has their own opinion, LOL! And I have to accept that, since the matter was public (and I posted about it myself, making it public), it will be discussed and some people will cast aspersions on me around the internet.

  186. drucillajoy says:

    I was at Tractor Supply this morning & looked at the magazine, the picture is not as nice as the one posted here, it’s a B&W and if anything, detracts from your talent. I was at the store to buy a Bee Culture magazine, but this whole thing kind of turns me off of magazines in general…how many of the articles and accompanying photos are genuine?
    Also, I wouldn’t be satisfied with the $2100.00…this way his crime goes un-noticed & doesn’t alert the public to most likely more cases such as yours….this needs to be taken as far as you can go to make others aware of both the reprecussions of being caught & of being the unpaid artist who had their work swiped. $2100.00 is nothing to a 5 million dollar company, at that price he bought his ability to steal & to keep right on doing it.

  187. Angel says:

    So glad this was resolved fairly and quickly for you.oxox You’re handling of this situation in a professional, dignified manner was fantastic! Hopefully a message has been sent out to other would be copy/pasting scoundrels that this is NOT acceptable and they will be held accountable!

  188. Lindy says:

    YOU GO GIRLFRIEND……..YOU GO!!!!!!

  189. Eliza says:

    Wow! I’m so impressed that you were able to fight something like this quickly and effectively. Congratulations! Also — I love the 3 goats photo, I can see why they wanted it. 🙂

  190. catslady says:

    Happy Birthday 52!

  191. Mymsie says:

    SO glad you stuck to your guns!!! Love your blog and admire your spirit!

    P.S. By now I’m sure you’ve heard about the Cooks Source magazine incident? https://www.woot.com/Blog/ViewEntry.aspx?Id=14952

  192. SuzzyQ says:

    He didn’t know who he was messin’ with, did he?! Nice he mended his ways.

  193. Ramona says:

    WOO HOO! Glad you are getting compensated.

  194. Sharri says:

    I wrote him too–and am glad to hear this had a happy ending!
    Glad you stuck it out and remained firm! 🙂

  195. Emma says:

    Oh, he feels “terrible,” does he?

    It’s not that hard to not hang up on someone when they call with a legitimate complaint.

    The check is really only part of the point.

    Part of the problem is addressing issues with maturity and grace.

    I am still considering whether I will send a letter expressing to Mr. Belanger that his combative, inflammatory, and patronizing attitude are not resolved by a check.

  196. lyzcollins says:

    We are photographers and we have also experienced theft of this nature. And, like you, we vigorously demanded that our photograph either be properly credited or removed from the illegal posting. EVERYONE who takes a photograph OWNS the photograph regardless of their status as a professional (or not) and ALL of us need to be diligent in not allowing theft. Good on you for not backing down.

  197. Ellen Brunot says:

    Dear S,
    Congrats! You raised my consciousness of every photo I see online now. You handled yourself well and he got off easy!
    Cookies for all!

  198. Julie Toler says:

    You Go Girl!!!

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