Looking For You All My Life Part 59

little act about how there's so many out there who think like

him. I bet even the likes of Greg Snider and Rick Tanner

wouldn't go in for all that hate garbage."

"You're probably right, but you know it might be inter-

esting to do an article on Mr. Ebbert's little hate group," sug-

gested Maggie.

Scott snapped his fingers. "Good idea! Man, I'd love to

do a story about them. Do you think I could do it, Maggie?

Please?"

IShe considered his request for a moment-it was just the

sort of story she would love to break herself. It might even

be something that the a.s.sociated Press might pick up if done

Iright. But then again, she knew it was a great opportunity

for Scott as well. And right now his pleading face reminded

her of Spencer and she softened. "Yeah, Scott, I suppose it's

about time for you to get your feet wet with something

beyond the local human interest story. Besides, I'm swamped

with this TS Development business and now researching for

Iall these environmental issues. But I want to work with you Looking for You All My Life95

IIon it, okay? I want you to do your best work. Remember,

II~this is investigative reporting-be thorough and don't rush

it Get all the facts you can and take lots of photos too.

Maybe even do some research ,about hate groups in the

Northwest as a whole while you re at it.

"All right!" His face lit up. "I can't wait to start in. You

know, this could be really big! Thanks, Maggie."

"Sure, and who knows, maybe in time, you'll turn into a

bit of a trouble-magnet yourself.''

"Cool!"

Back in her office, Maggie called her mom and got the

phone number for Steven Harris' parents. She wanted to

finish up this little piece today, and it made sense to include

a bit about Steven because he, in essence, had started this

whole Michael Abundi thing in the first place.

"h.e.l.lo?" said Maggie when a woman answered. "Is this

Mrs. Harris?" The woman confirmed and Maggie began by

introducing herself as the editor of Pine Mountain's only

newspaper.

"We used to live in Pine Mountain," said the woman as

if reminiscing.

"I know," said Maggie. "And you had a son named

Steven?"

I"Yes, but he pa.s.sed away some time ago." Her voice

grew sad.

"I'm terribly sorry for your loss. A dear friend of mine

was quite close to your son during his school years. Do you

remember Jed Whitewater?"

qu "Oh, yes. He was such a nice young man. Very smart and

iet as I recall. And a good friend to Stevie. Whatever

became of Jed?"