You have to pull for the underdog, because there is a little bit of Rocky in all of us! Whether it's the hare against the tortoise, David against Goliath, Erin Brockavich against the polluting utility, or Funny Cide going after Horse racings Triple Crown, something deep inside all of us wants to see a win from a gutsy, albeit outgunned competitor. That is especially true when good rises to conquer evil, and the mighty giant limps away nursing its wounded pride. 

This situation might not have quite that much drama, but it certainly does illustrate what one person can do, especially when she has a cause she believes in, and is willing to battle on the giant's own battlefield. 
Please read the following letter received early this month at the headquarters of the International Association for Property and Evidence. It is from Evidence Specialist Mary Ann Palmer, O'Fallon (MO) Police Department, and was sent to Joe Latta, who is the instructor for the IAPE Property Management courses. Joe regularly tells property and evidence professionals across the country that if they don't like a law they should change it, and Mary Ann took him very seriously. [editor]

Hi, Joe, 

Just wanted to let you know that I have been in contact with my state Senator, John Dolan, over the past few months regarding changing the law to shorten the retention time for keeping found property. He proposed a bill that would do that and it passed through the house and senate in March and April. It was signed by the governor yesterday! I understand it is rare for a bill to go through that quickly. It was kind of a bitter-sweet victory, as the retention time was only shortened from one year to 6 months instead of to the 90 days I requested. From what I understand, there were some legislators who objected to the shorter time, and I believe a compromise was made on the 180 days. But I will take what I can get. Thanks for your suggestions and your help in getting the ball rolling on this. I think the change will go into effect on August 28th. 

I have had reporters calling wanting to do a story about it. One of our news reporters from channel 5 in St. Louis called yesterday and asked me if I knew my name was all over the news wires. I had no idea it would even be newsworthy. A reporter from the Associated Press called yesterday wanting to do an article on the bill and asked me why I got involved with it. I guess it goes to show that one person can make a difference. 

I would ask another favor of you if you don't mind. Some of my email files were accidentally deleted and I don't have the email of Mary Anne Duncan from Concord, CA that you referred me to who helped me so much in the beginning stages. If you could let me know so I can contact her to thank her for her help, I would be most appreciative! Thanks again for your help on this. 

Sincerely, 

Mary Ann Palmer