Letters and comments for March 30, 2011

Show some respect 

To the Editor:

OK, La Grande; what gives? First, we have our Halloween decorations stolen, then we have lawn furniture destroyed, now someone snaps both our cherry trees in half! Why?!

Killing a living thing is a violent act. Our trees weren’t inanimate objects made in China. Trees are living things that just require food and water to survive; and in return they clean our air and add beauty to our town. Some gift us with fruit, flowers and splendid fall leaves. This act of vandalism is a reflection of the respect people have for their town and others they share it with. I think La Grandians overall are lacking in this quality.

Take our parks and walkways for instance. Walking into town or hiking local areas I always encounter dog feces, cigarette butts and trash left around. What’s next? Used condoms and needles?

Please, whether you’re in a public park, sidewalks or off the beaten path, always pick up after your dog.

Did you know that it has been estimated that a single gram of dog waste can contain 23 million fecal coliform bacteria, which are known to cause cramps, diarrhea, intestinal illness and serious kidney disorders in humans. EPA even estimates that two or three days’ worth of droppings from a population of about 100 dogs would contribute enough bacteria to temporarily close a bay, and all watershed areas within 20 miles of it.

If you’re hiking Deal Canyon, Owsley Canyon or the like, please pack out what your dog packs in.

Have some respect, La Grande! Stop polluting and vandalizing! Start respecting your town and the people you must share it with.

Tajah Neubo-McDermott

La Grande

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