I've been reading some of the response to an article I recently wrote regarding dogfighting. Yeah, reporters keep up with those comments and message board threads -- for better or for worse.

So, I'll address a few things.
Law enforcement said arrests were coming. But who knows how big this thing gets? The case is still young in the scheme of things. These guys are just as pissed off as you. So, patience.

Now, I'll admit, I'd like nothing better than to see these dogfighters receive the maximum penalty for their crimes. In NC, like most states, the whole enterprise is a felony. Even being a spectator at one of the events can mean serious consequences.
For me, the idea of fighting these dogs is nauseating and heartbreaking -- especially because it makes me think of my pit bull who died this past year.

Parker was one of the best dogs I've ever had. She was sweet and gentle. But she did have some aggression toward other dogs. Simple enough to combat -- we didn't expose her to other dogs. She was well trained and obedient -- most of the time. And she was exceptionally bright. She was found at a state park -- hence the name Parker -- and we feared advertising that we'd found here because someone might lie to get her and have a fighting dog. After asking around, no one had claimed her. She became our dog and short of a slight snoring problem she was perfect. I can't fathom getting any entertainment out of putting her in a pit with another dog and watching them fight. It turns my stomach.

So, I'll stay after this story, just like the cops will stay after this case.

Labels: Crowders Mountain, doggy, government, news

Well, all the numerous factors have fallen in place this morning and the Burn Boss along with his crew have decided go ahead with the prescribed burn. It'll likely be close to noon before media are allowed up close to the fire. I think it's because they'd like to see how the fire behaves for an hour or two before allowing inexperienced civilians on the mountain.

Rangers from Crowders Mountain, NC Forest Service guys, former Crowders' rangers and local firemen are around to make sure nothing goes too horribly wrong.

From my previous experience with these guys, I have no worries. Anyone working on a prescribed burn has had the training they need and Burn Bosses -- the ones in charge -- have had more training than you can even imagine. They have to know fire behavior, plant ecology, the burning capacity of certain woods, when to burn and how it will affect plant and animal population; not to mention a hefty knowledge of meteorology and how to organize a huge crew.

So, stay tuned and I'll have more coverage as it happens.
(If you hang in there, you'll even get to see me dressed in a Nomex fire resistant jumpsuit -- which is just as flattering as it sounds!)

Labels: Crowders Mountain, fire