Letters to the Editor
From our weekly issue dated September 09, 2009
(Editor’s Note: Views and commentary, including statements made as fact, are strictly those of the letter-writers.)
Typed, double-spaced letters are considered for publication. Hand-written letters that are double-spaced and legible also can be considered. “Thank you” submissions are not accepted as letters.
With much gratitude
From Chris & Marilyn Arnold
O’Brien
We would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to all the volunteers from the Illinois Valley Fire Department, ODF and other fire agencies that responded so quickly and professionally to the raging brush fire we, and our dear neighbors, suffered on Monday, Aug. 24 in O'Brien.
The afternoon winds, and the energy created by the fire itself, made for a real Hell on Earth experience. It was absolutely incredible to see planes, helicopters with giant buckets, and those awesome C130s giving it “their best shots” so quickly. God bless all the neighbors who walked down Lone Mountain Road with buckets and shovels to assist the firefighters. No wonder only 48 acres were burned! Although we lost our beloved Dalmatian, Princess, the back deck, pump house and other out-buildings, we were filled with joy that our house survived, only being charred on one, lower corner. There are blackened shrubs and trees 360-degrees around our house to prove that its survival was a genuine miracle!
Pets are big responsibilities
From Connie Theil
Portland
I recently had the pleasure to visit your beautiful valley. My sister lives in Selma, and it is always a treat to explore your magnificent area.
Sadly, our visit was marred by a trip down to the Illinois River. The second we got out of our vehicle, we smelled the stench of death, and my sister explained that this is where folks dump off their companion pets when they no longer want them.
As we walked across the Green Bridge, I heard a distressing cry. At first we thought it was a bird, but then we recognized the meows of a desperate and terrified cat. My sister went under the bridge and found a baby kitten about 25 feet in the tree. When I got down to the tree, I looked up at the bridge, and it was fairly obvious that someone had thrown this baby off the bridge, and he landed in a tree.
I was able to coax him down, after lots of pleading and promises to help him. The second his tiny body touched my hands he began to purr in gratitude.
This kitten was extremely thin and drank water as if he had none for days and days. We fed him (carefully and slowly so as not to sicken him) and he ate 1-1/2 cans of cat food in one sitting. Wobbleaugie, as he is now known, turned out to be a wonderful, sweet cat. My sister is adopting him, and he now has a fabulous home.
It is difficult to imagine how someone could throw a kitten off a bridge. I know times are hard, but if you can’t afford to have an animal - don’t get one. They are a big responsibility and pet ownership should not be taken lightly.
Also, spay and neuter is vital if you have a pet.
Cats and dogs are sentient, feeling beings and not trash to throw off a bridge.
Please be compassionate to our furry brethren.
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