EDITOR:
On May 5, 2009, residents of Douglas County gathered at the senior citizen's center to give varying concerns and opinions about a proposed motocross park near the Douglas County Fairgrounds. In attendance were approximately 50 to 75 people ranging from young teenagers to senior citizens. All were addressing concerns to the Douglas County Board of Parks & Recreation and did so in a manner that citizens of Douglas County should be proud of.
One of the staunch opponents to this motocross park was the president of Douglas Animal Welfare Group Cherie Owen. Ms. Owen took a gathering of mature adults who were having a mature dialogue and turned it into a platform for her to go on record and interject her personal bias toward the hard working employees of Douglas County.
Ms. Owen stood up, stated who she was, and who she represented. She continued with stating that DAWG ensures that the county shelter does no longer kill animals and in addition, "does not kill animals for fun any longer." Ms. Owen is essentially saying to citizens of Douglas County that until her and DAWG arrived, county employees from the administrative level down to 40 hour a week employee killed animals for mere enjoyment and it was never addressed until they saved the day. This statement on behalf of DAWG and herself is an example of what some people will do or say to vilify anyone or any organization who oppose their ideologies.
Owen owes the residents of Douglas County and especially the employees of the Douglas County Animal Shelter an apology for her grossly irresponsible and inaccurate statement.
Rod Moore
Gardnerville
