You know, I'm not a cop-hater, but today....

[MADem]

40. I find it's best to be plain spoken; let that school know that you aren't asking just

to "save a few bucks," and that it's the difference between driving that 12 year old beater you own and driving those Keds you're wearing!

It can't hurt. Same deal with the V de P--the very worst thing they can say to you is NO. If they can't help you with money, don't go away defeated; ask if they know someone at the voke school, or elsewhere, who will do the repairs and take small payments over time for them.

I was poor as a churchmouse as a starving student--I used to show up at one of my rich friends' houses around suppertime, and clean the kitchen and then some after they'd invite me in to eat--and I wouldn't let them toss the leftovers, I'd take 'em home with me...ya gotta cope any way you can.

Ain't no shame in need, it is what it is.