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Dear Sheila, Just wanted to update you on what's happening (and not) here in MO. The Gateway Movers and Shakers met today with Mary Ann Renick in Dick Gephardt's office. Like the others we've spoken with, she was sympathetic and positive. She did point out that Gephardt doesn't sponsor legislation because he's minority leader, but he can influence others (and will hopefully do so). So far we've visited personally with reps from Ashcroft, Bond, Volkmer, Talent, and Gephardt's offices. They were all supportive but noncommital; Talent makes it a policy not to support one worthy cause over another (so then what does he DO in Congress?) Would like some guidance on what to do next. On the plus side, we've sent off approximately 8,000 letters to Kassebaum and committee. Oddly enough, she hasn't replied yet! She'll probably tell us what she's told the others on the Net - there's too much overhead in the bill. How should we respond to that? I hate to let the big one go. Bill Heitman's proposal is that we begin sending medicine bottles and PD fact sheets every day to Kass and committee. Is this a good idea or will it piss them off? Saul Siegal seems to have had some success doing this. Please advise. Pat