It seems that he who has no sin has chosen to throw a stone or two. I have really tried not to be a part of this discussion, problem, etc., but I've decided that I need to say something. I was contacted by Jim Higgins via e-mail to aid in his quest to take Barbara Ludt "down a peg or two". I know what's going on, and I've heard what Jackie and Barbara are arguing about. Out of respect for MYSELF and others, I chose to stay out of this and offer nothing to anyone. When Jim contacted me, I respectfully and as tactfully as possible said I would not get in the middle of this and advised that it would probably for the best that he stay out of it as well and let Barbara and Jackie deal with things. I am an understanding person and I understand that we are going to go to the aid of our friends when they are under attack. I have offered words of sympathy, encouragement, and understanding to Barbara because she is my friend and I will do anything for her. She has helped me tremendously, been a friend to me, adopted two ferrets to me, found a pup for my mom, etc. I have offered on many occasions to send money, food, etc. to her and the animals, and have been instructed more times than I can count to send my supplies to other places or been told that what I did send her was handed over to other shelters. I am not writing because of Barbara and Jackie however. I am writing about Jim Higgins. I will start by saying that Jim is good with ferrets and I've seen him pick up a little ferret that was scared to death and biting anything that got in its path. Jim's touch and care immediately melted the kit and he relaxed. Jim has found many homes for ferrets that people have dropped off to me at my home or I've been asked to come and get. To his credit, Jim is good with the ferrets and has a good knowledge of them. With that said, I am afraid that it has come to my attention that he has gone to the home of another ferret owner and threatened to take a few ferrets from her home. He had originally gone to her home to ask her to support his "Take Barbara Down" quest. She had refused and he became angry. Now, don't you think it's ironic that Jim would threaten the VERY SAME THING he feels was done to Jackie and is threatening it to someone who isn't even involved in the situation. He's just angry she won't support him and his crusade. Jim is not being honest and he is just being mean and deceitful just to get back at Barbara for whatever reasons he has. We all have enemies. I do, too. I'm afraid I have made more. I am begging you all. I am breaking my own rules for even writing this. PLEASE let Barbara and Jackie handle this. Let's not use the ferrets as pawns in our own stupid struggles. If someone wishes to offer money, services, advice, or encouragement to these ladies, do so privately. I am asking that BIG put an end to this and bring the forum back to talking about ferret care. April Gallaty [Posted in FML issue 3269]