They're just swans

Raise your fist in anger, but I'm going to say it: They're just swans. They're animals. Yes, it is sad that they won't be there anymore. And if the swans were maliciously killed by people, which seems to be the general, albeit unproven, consensus, then it was a disgusting act.

But when I saw that a group had already managed to raise $5,000 for information on the "slaying of the swans," I couldn't really believe it.

Did you know that Food Gatherers is facing a critical food shortage due to a 50% increase in demand?

Here are some other statistics from the United Way of Washtenaw County:

â€¢ Each month 25 percent of the people who need food in Washtenaw County choose between paying for food or paying for medicine.

â€¢ Each month 28 percent of the people who need food in Washtenaw County choose between paying for food or paying for housing.

â€¢ Each month 33 percent of the people who need food in Washtenaw County choose between paying for food or paying for utilities.

I can think of a lot better uses for that $5,000.

Give it to the Ann Arbor YMCA to send underprivileged kids to summer camp.

Give it to the Hope Clinic to provide dental and health care to people who need it.

Give it SafeHouse to help protect women and children in danger.

Give it to Arbor Hospice so that organization can continue take care of our loved ones as they die in comfort and dignity.

I'm sorry the swans won't be there. Really I am. But let's be realistic.