Greetings, everyone!!
 
As I was reading some back issues last week, I was reminded of the
McDowell's (in Kansas) plight.  On a whim, I called them.  I was *very*
nervous, as I usually don't make it a habit to call complete strangers, but
it went very well.  I spoke with Rita, and she had more bad news.
 
--Their house is gone.  They must move by the end of June.
--Their lawyer was considering dropping their caes, because it was "too
 political."
--Mike (?) has just about given up, but Rita is "not dead yet", and
continues to fight.
 
At a loss as to how to really help, I promised that I would send them
copies of all the FML issues that discussed their situation.  This is
proving quite a task, because as a new subscriber, I have to call the back
issues from the archives.  (Although I am very grateful for that service;
thank you Bill Gruber!! !)  I also told her that the Central Illinois
Friends of Ferrets newsletter would be reporting their case, and promised a
copy of it to her.  Rita's concern was just how their situation was being
presented on the FML, as a reaction to the one-sided and cruel reporting by
her local newspapers.  I certainly don't blame her.
 
The pleas have been forwarded so often that they have lost their sting.
But, still, I have a request.  The ACLU won't help them.  The court system
has failed them.  The local media won't support them, and the national
media (American Journal) won't help without videotape (how does one
videotape ferrets one does not have??).  They need suggestions.  If some
good ones come in before I send the copies to them, I will be happy to
forward them, or you can call them directly (the number is in former
issues);   as I said before, they are very friendly, and moral support, and
prayer, are the most important things they need right now. (Money doesn't
hurt, of course!!  :)
 
Can't resist one "cute ferret" story--just returned from visiting good
friends in Ohio (Hi, Len & Marya!!)  While we were gone, we gave the
fuzzies the run of the back room.  They managed to get on top of the desk,
and step on the "MEMO" button on the answering machine.  We have vauge
recordings of ferret antics, including various snorts, chuckles, hissing,
and thumps.  I hope nobody important tried to get through!!!
 
Take care, and please think of the McDowell's,
Kelly & Michael, the Ferret Fuzzies and Feline Furries
 
[Posted in FML issue 0742]