Fran seems to have done some damage but so far no casualties in the ferret world - lets hope it stays that way. Just got a call from Jeff Johnston in North Carolina. He wants me to remind folks in the hurricane damaged areas to treat their water. Chemically (one drop of iodine per gallon - no more) or with heat (boil for 3-5 minutes). Karen Marsh-Louvourn apparently had a pine tree crsh through her daughter's bedroom. The shelter will be closed for at least a few days. People and ferrets are fine. The ferrets just woke up looked around and went back to sleep. These folks are from the Triangle area of North Carolina. Some 80% of the residents are without power and alot without phone service. So far Jeff Johnston doesn;t think they need much help. There might be a need for ferret sitting while houses are under repair. Jeff is trying to contact all the locals. He doesn;t seem to be able to send email out but sometimes gets it in. In the meantime you can try to reach him through us or through BIG (I'm sending his phone to BIG and I have it) Let either of us know what you need to get to them. So far I haven't heard of any problems with the local Virginia or Maryland shelters, breeders or owners. We'll let everyone know. bill and diane killian zen and the art of ferrets http://www.zenferret.com/ mailto:[log in to unmask] [Posted in FML issue 1685]