Post #707984 by Tangaroa-Ru on Wed, Feb 12, 2014 4:06 PM

Aloha everyone. It's Kari Hendler again. So... as Thor said earlier today, we are in a little holding pattern with Damon's until they can get over to Bahooka and meet with Jorge. In the meantime, Lynn Garrett (Otto von Stroheim's friend who runs Hidden Los Angeles) has been doing a kickass job of fielding the press and helping get donations for Rufus' cause. She needs your help, though. She needs GOOD photos of Rufus and video of him to help with the campaign and press. So check your phones and computer photo files in case you have photos of Rufus, or pointed your phone at his tank and took video of him. Please send only good, clear images to Lynn. Still photos can be sent to [email protected]. Videos can be sent to the same address via https://www.hightail.com/

It's doubtful that you'll get photo or film credit, but you'll get good mana by helping Lynn gather material needed to promote this cause.

I'm keeping a positive feeling that this will be resolved soon. Once again, please do not call Damon's as they are doing their best to make an educated and humane decision, and the LAST thing we want to do is make them feel pressured. As I said in an earlier email, Rufus is a special case and it is a big deal to take him in. There are a few other interested places at this moment, and they are being given information about what would be needed to adopt Rufus, should they become involved.

Now, I want to say this very important thing: Lynn has spoken to aquatic experts about Rufus. People who are skilled in aquatic moving and fish health. Rufus is a big fish of a certain age. Just like any animal, when he is moved, to wherever he is moved to, it will be a stressful experience for him. You know how much fun it is when YOU move? Well, imagine that for Rufus. No matter how careful or educated the movers will be, it will be a big change for Rufus. His water is his air, his tank has been his home his whole life. The best care will be given to move him, but it is a risky thing to do. All that being said, THERE IS NO QUESTION THAT THIS IS A RISK WORTH TAKING. Yes, there is some drama to this that hopefully will have a happy ending. I think all of us would cheer on anyone who makes this attempt to give Rufus a quality, new home, no matter what MIGHT happen. Since he can't stay at Bahooka any longer, taking a risk like this is far better than the alternative, don't you think? I just needed to point out the reality of this situation, so that you all are aware that this is a big deal, but one worth doing, no matter what, and that you give major kudos to whoever adopts him.

Mahalo to all of you who have posted and are keeping the fish-faith. This is Tiki teamwork at its finest.