Of the 188 surveys submitted, 46 surveys had write-in comments.  Some of
them were QUITE lengthy!  I'll attempt to summarize them as best I can
below; please bear with me.
 
- LOTS of people wrote to give me descriptions of their local areas.  LOTS
of people commented that it would be great if the event could be held near
them, so they wouldn't have to travel far or long to get there.  LOTS of
people also commented that they needed the trip to be INEXPENSIVE, so that
they could afford to go.
 
- 2 West Coasters suggested that it be on the West Coast this time, since
it was on the East Coast last time.
 
- Several midwesteners stated that their area would be centrally located
for everyone.  They also felt that there is a lack of ferret activities
in the middle part of the U.S., and this meeting would help to enhance
ferret awareness in that area.
 
- Several people travel in motorhomes, and would like a location that
accomodates motorhomes.
 
- Four people commented that they feel very uncomfortable with Las Vegas
as an option, due to the activities in that area (drinking, gambling,
legalized prostitution, etc.)
 
- 1 person would like a large, free hospitality suite at the next
gathering, with room for lots of vendors and socializing
 
- Several people commented on the need for "lots" of activities.  One
person commented that he/she wants to go to an area with moderately nice
hotels, and things to do other than "nature things".
 
- I heard from a couple of DC area residents.  One commented that he/she
has had no problem taking ferrets on the Mall.  The other commented that
DC's crime is confined to well-defined, non-tourist areas, and that other
major cities have crime, too.
 
- Five people commented that they are very flexible, and will go with
anything the group decides.
 
- Two people commented that they prefer not to fly.
 
- NUMEROUS people commented that they wanted to bring their ferrets with
them.  One person would like a nearby hotel that accepts pets, so that
he/she can check on the animals during the day.
 
- Two people commented that they feel ferrets should NOT be allowed at
these gatherings, due to the risk of disease/contagion.
 
- Two people commented that Christmas time is a very busy time of year for
people, and the gathering should not be held anytime near Xmas.  One
person commented that he/she has time off near Xmas, and it would be great
if it could be held then.
 
- Several people wanted warm climates.  Two people asked for a cold
climate.
 
- Several people want a smoke-free environment.  Several people want an
allergen-free environment.
 
- Several people commented that they will go whereever it is held.  Two
people stated that it doesn't really matter where it's held, since the
people are more important than the location.
 
- One person noted that cruises as well as California are FFZs, and the
two (cruises and CA) should be given equal consideration.  This person
also reminded everyone to send their receipts to the CA governor if it is
held elsewhere, to let him/her know about the amount of money the
anti-ferret policy is costing the state.
 
- Ela
 
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   (000)___(000)        Ela Heyn
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   ======@======    http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/5483
[Posted in FML issue 2252]