I am compelled to address a few issues again as it seems that some folks were offended by a so-called "comment" on my shelter listing. "Angel Ferret is a privately owned and operated, self-funded shelter. We no longer offer sponsorship, as it is unlawful to do so without solicitation permits." This was not a "comment", but rather a description of the nature of my business. I have been repeatedly attacked for the way I run my business. It has quickly become a situation where it does not really matter what I say or do, it will always be wrong, offensive, etc. I had previously offered a sponsorship program, for which I was questioned. I have had many people interested in this program, including folks from the FML. When I was under fire for this, I put a stop to it and did some research. It is indeed unlawful to do so, in the State of Nevada, and I thought that I had better look into getting "legal" before I was attacked for that as well. The "comment" was not a comment, but rather a statement, that is in reference to my shelter and the way I choose to run it. For the sake of my valued and appreciated business acquantances, I choose to run my business in a true and legal manner. This will give my customers the confidence of knowing they are dealing with A LEGITIMATE BUSINESS. In light of the condemnation I have received in the past, I find it to suit my needs best to be as legal and true as possible. In that manner, if anyone has a problem, they can direct those problems to the proper sources, where they will be addressed and hopefully resolved. As a business listed in the phone book, I am on record with the Better Business Bureau. Any complaints about that business can be directed towards them. I do this because I value not only the ferrets, but the owners as well. I am not loaded with money, and cannot afford to "buy into" many of the legalities that I wish I could. The fact that I stated that it is illegal to solicit funds is merely protection against any further attacks against my shelter, and to let the general public know that I am legitimate, and I am doing my best to deliver to the community a reputable company. I am also deemed "self-funded" due to the fact that I am not supported by any outside groups, and I operate a shop where I raise the funds necessary to run my shelter. If anyone was offended by my shelter listing, please do not be! It was in no way an insult to ANYONE. The laws in each state are different, and if you are lucky enough to run your shelter without being policed I ENVY YOU! Please, if anyone has any questions, comments, or complaints, please direct them to the shelter. I always address my problems, and will be more than happy to give anyone the information they need to put their minds to rest. I no longer subscribe to the mailing list, so anything that is posted will not be reviewed. As far as putting a "wish list" at the end of my listing, well, I guess then I just have my pride then, don't I! I don't publish a wish list anymore, as I feel confident that if there is anything that I am in serious need for, the ferret community will come through for me as they always have. Thank you everyone for your support and your time. P.S. I AM IN IT FOR THE FERRETS....YOU CAN ASK ANY ONE OF THEM! (especially Jasper - R.I.P. 3/30/99) Donna L. Carlsen Angel Ferret Shelter, Inc. AND DAMN PROUD OF IT! [Posted in FML issue 2634]