I sometimes get grief from readers for writing items about the organization People for The Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), a group which admittedly can be a bit militant at times in beliefs and practices.

But these are people who also do so much good for so many.

So I wanted to share PETA's latest, exciting announcement.

Enthusiastically fueled by her quest for what she describes as "a just world," PETA founder, Ingrid E. Newkirk -- leader of the largest animal rights organization in the world since its inception in 1980 -- has just finished an inspiring new book: "One Can Make a Difference: How Simple Actions Can Change the World" (Adams Media; Oct. 2008; $16.95).

Newkirk has compiled more than 50 thought-provoking original essays for this book, written by an intriguing, diverse group of individuals who she says have made a positive impact on society.

Her book includes contributions from superstars and private citizens alike, including movie director Oliver Stone, actors Kevin Bacon and Brigitte Bardot, legendary White House correspondent Helen Thomas, musicians Moby and Ravi Shankar, renowned physicians like Dr. Henry Heimlich, world-record-setting athlete Aimee Mullins (who lost her legs below the knee as an infant and revolutionized the world of prosthetics) and physicist John Gardner (who lost his eyesight and created a company that offers new tools for people with disabilities).

Newkirk says as readers peek into the psyche of these inspiring personalities, they discover that all it takes to create an entire movement is the desire and determination of any one person.

In her introduction to these inspiring, sometimes funny, and always moving essays, Newkirk underscores the fact that we all face challenges in our lives and that a person does not have to be famous or wealthy to actively contribute to the betterment of society.

"This book illustrates (a) that even those we admire from afar invariably face obstacles and have to find ways to keep their belief alive and (b) that you don't have to be a household name to make a difference … you just need to have conviction," Newkirk writes.

In tribute to each of the printed pieces, Newkirk offers a brief biography of the essayist and his or her extraordinary contributions to humanity and spiritual contributions from the Dalai Lama and the founder of Def Jam Records Russell Simmons, musical contributions from Paul McCartney and Willie Nelson, lifesaving contributions from Dr. Neal Barnard, political contributions from Rep. Dennis Kucinich and Rev. Al Sharpton, and others.

"I hope that this book brings others hope, courage, and inspiration, and helps others examine their own ability," Newkirk said. "May it prove that you are bound by nothing at all and that the future, and your life, can be what you make it."

In the past, Newkirk has been the subject of two documentary films, including HBO's "I Am an Animal."

A deputy sheriff for many years, she is the author of several books including "Making Kind Choices" (2005) and "Let's Have a Dog Party!" (2007).

The opinions expressed are solely those of the writer. He can be reached at ppotempa@nwitimes.com or 219.852.4327.

celebBirthdays

Actress Ellen Travolta ("Happy Days," sister of John Travolta) is 68. Actress Britt Ekland and impressionist Fred Travalena are 66. Singer Millie Small is 62. Singer-guitarist Thomas McClary (The Commodores) is 58. Singer Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon is 57. Guitarist David Hidalgo of Los Lobos is 54. Actress Elisabeth Shue is 45. Singer-songwriter Matthew Sweet is 44. Actress Jacqueline Obradors ("NYPD Blue") and country singer Tim Rushlow (Little Texas) and bassist Tommy Stinson (The Replacements, Guns N' Roses) are 42. Actress Amy Jo Johnson ("Power Rangers" "Felicity") is 38. Actor Ioan Gruffudd ("Fantastic Four," "Horatio Hornblower") is 35. Actor Jeremy Sisto ("Law and Order," "Six Feet Under") is 34.