June 15, 2005

Dear Leonard:

Since my computer crashed, I have been unable to communicate online with anyone and I desperately need some help.  Hopefully you or some fellow members can come to the rescue.

Enclosed are two copies of notarized statements made by my two oldest grandsons and covertly given to me.  I am hoping you can provide me with names-addresses of persons or groups that may be able to help my grandsons.

Here is a brief rundown of their situation:

Aug 28, 2000- Taken by DHS.

June 15, 2005- Still remain in foster/adopt.

As you can see by their statements, it hasn't been a bed of roses for them.  Now, due to a one-day Ad litem replacement, they were finally allowed to speak to the judge.  This was in March 2005.  They requested a new ad litem- refused.  They told the court everything that was in their statements and then some.  It all fell on deaf ears.

On the issue of their giving written permission for their photos and history to be placed on the National Adoptions Registry, the judge told that that, yes, DHS was supposed to get their written permission to place their information on the registry.  That's as far as that went.

Leonard, DHS claims that the only adoption hit they have had for these two children (ages 13 and 12) has come from OUT OF STATE!  Without the illegal placement of their info on the net, the boys would not have an adoption placement.

The judge told the boys that if they kept refusing to be placed, she could call a mistrial.  The boys said they would just keep refusing.  The the judge told them that by law she was still going to try and adopt them out.

It was at that point they asked the court to appoint them a CASA representative.  The judge informed them that there was a shortage of CASA workers.  Even now, she stated, there are 30 going through classes downstairs.

In the judge's final remarks to these boys, she told them they had NO RIGHTS because they were in an adoption classification, not a foster care classification.

Leonard, they can't even practice their religion without sneaking to services.  Were it not for their current foster mom disliking DHS, their church days would be over.  

They are not frustrated.  The are ready to run at the first hint of adoption.  They know they have rights.  They know their words are falling on deaf ears.

I told them I would try and find them some help since their ad litem, DHS, and the court is refusing to do so.  I told them I would do whatever it took to get someone to listen and step in for them.

But, I need you and our groups' help.  I need as many contacts and possible to send their statements and story to on their behalf.  These boys want direct contact with anyone willing to help them.  I'll send out their story and statements with their current addresses on them.

Please, if you can assist in any way, we all would be eternally grateful. 

Their next hearing is on June 30, 2005 and they are scheduled for one more after that.  DHS is pushing for adoption.

Please call if its convenient- 501-563-4965

Regards,
Alan Burt
Liz Burt
PO Box 5989
Jacksonville, AR 72078-5989