Ann Arbor Resident

Fri, Aug 21, 2009 : 8:24 p.m.

Now that we know they weren't "murdered", don't you all feel pretty silly.

fishjamaica

Thu, Aug 20, 2009 : 8:46 a.m.

Acts 10:13

ArianneRose

Tue, Aug 18, 2009 : 11:13 p.m.

I have read all of the comments. Yes, people are important, and animals are important. It is everyone's choice and their own discretion as far as what they spend their money on. It is not our business. It is true that people who could kill animals in this way could be violent to sometime show the same kind of violence toward people. It would be the time now to find the people responsible before this happens. One more point... does everyone remember the story of Noah's Ark? There were two of each kind taken onto the ark. Whose idea was this? I think God loves people AND animals. He would want both people and animals to be protected. God loved all of his creation. Think about it. Just one more valid thought!!! :) Let's show peace, love and harmony to all - people and animals alike. The swans were beautiful and deserve to be protected.

stan

Tue, Aug 18, 2009 : 5:36 p.m.

Aimee, I'm not sure what you don't understand about what I've said. The waste of resources was what the article stated as a call to 911. If this is inaccurate reporting then that is one thing. If not, calling 911 for dead birds is insane and a waste of time. Calling the authorities on a non-emergency line is completely appropriate, and I'll take your word that you just did that. It's not unfathomable that someone else called 911. I'm sure you were not the only one on the road around that time.

Aimee

Tue, Aug 18, 2009 : 2:08 p.m.

Stan: I, being the driver that was first on the scene at 3:30 in the morning, alerted authorities. I highly doubt once other people arrived at 7, authorities responded twice, do you? It was in fact, not a waste of resources. I guess the other aspect is how misplaced your point is. If you have a problem with authorities responding to this sort of situation, you need to direct that to abolishing the DNR. Or at least limiting their responsibilities. The DNR is supposed to investigate as a part of their job description. The swans are federally protected. It is a crime to kill them. It appeared they had been shot. So, the DNR, by law had to investigate. Further, I drive at that time in the morning 5-6 days a week. I can tell you without hesitation, there aren't a whole lot of emergencies that were put on the back burner due to the swans. The police aren't paid based on how many calls they respond to, they are paid on hours they work. I'd like to know where the waste of resources was.

stan

Mon, Aug 17, 2009 : 7:34 a.m.

Aimee, before you called me ignorant, you might have been better off reading this: http://www.annarbor.com/news/scio-township-residents-report-swans-found-dead/ "He said residents called 911 and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources." Residents implies plural, meaning that if this story is accurate, someone DID indeed call 911. You're looking a bit foolish now.

MichMash

Fri, Aug 14, 2009 : 9:50 a.m.

Only in Ann Arbor would you hear phrases like, the "swans are our friends" or this lunacy, "Some people think of animals as lesser beings. I do not. I am certain that we are meant to share this Earth." Does your affinity for equality for all organism extend to HIV? Get a grip, people. That said, an opinion piece is just that...same as these entries. I do agree that people can spend thier money the way they wish but some of you should get a tape recorder and read your post, aloud, then play it back to hear how ridiculous you sound.

Aimee

Thu, Aug 13, 2009 : 12:19 p.m.

Dear Stan: I am the person that "notified the authorities," after finding the swans dead in the road. I'm not sure how that equates with dialing 911. But super glad you stepped on your soap box made of nothing. I called the non-emergency line so the bodies would not pose a danger to other drivers. I called the bird rescue to deal with the one live baby I didn't see in the road. I was ignorant to the fact that the swans were federally protected and that what happened to them would be viewed as a crime. I would have done the same thing if I had to swerve to avoid hitting a dead deer in the road. So the absurdity in all of this is how you read one thing, took it to mean something else and decided to make an issue out of it. The waste of resources is the energy it took you to muster a comment. Get your facts straight, otherwise you end up looking ignorant. Jordan: I find it interesting that I know all of seven people in the group swanfriends, personally. One of them is a volunteer for The People's Food Co-op, one volunteers for social services, and I have personally donated and or raised funds for many of the groups you listed. Perhaps, people that care about animals deeply also care about people deeply. Perhaps the willingness to give to a reward fund is symbolic of our willingness to give overall. And perhaps, our giving doesn't typically get the media attention the swans did. Perhaps, you're belittling the people who do exactly what you're suggesting they do. Perhaps, when the dust settles we are already planning to fund raise for several agencies mentioned. Perhaps the death of the swans brought together a group of strangers that want to help the community overall. Just a thought.

Gibulet

Mon, Aug 10, 2009 : 1:57 p.m.

"They're just birds" is a heartless, egotistical statement. Oh, they dont deserve to live, humans are the only species that matter. Let's kill all the rest. That is just hateful and idiotic. I do not believe the arrogance of the people who call the reward "misplaced." It is anyone's right to donate money where they see fit. If you don't like it tough, suck it up. It is a freedom and choice, and you don't get to decide what they think is a worthy cause. Those were beautiful, innocent birds and the disgusting people that did this actually deserve more than the maximum punishment, if it were possible. As for calling 911...what would you do if you came across a pile of dead dogs? You would absolultey call 911. It isn't natural for that to happen and the authorities need to be notified. Just because they are birds doesnt make it any less wrong. This kind of violence toward animals very often leads to violence against humans, and finding out now who did this may save people more than giving them $5,000. I commend those working to find the truth, and would gladly donate to their cause.

Sam

Mon, Aug 10, 2009 : 11:04 a.m.

I am one of the soft-hearted tree-huggers who became enraged at the killing of trumpeter swans by automobile or other lethal weapon in Lodi township. Trumpeter swans are easy targets because they are the largest of North American waterfowl. They are almost too heavy to fly. They are not aggressive birds, and they will leave you alone if you leave them alone. Unfortunately, they dont seem to have much aversion to living in close proximity to humans. In a cursory search of news articles I turned up 14 incidents of shootings of trumpeter swans since April, 2007. Most of these shootings occurred in the Midwest; Wisconsin, Iowa, North Dakota, Ohio, Illinois (5 swans), Missouri, and Michigan. Many of these shooters would have considered themselves sportsmen, even though the swans were not able to return fire. Beauty is sometimes said to be in the eye of the beholder, but most folks enjoy watching families of trumpeter swans in the wild. Whats not to enjoy? The large number of people who observed swans in Lodi township have testified to the beauty of those birds. Now somebody has killed three of them. If ever we are lucky enough to witness the nesting of trumpeter swans in this area again, we must do more to protect them.

EBF

Fri, Aug 7, 2009 : 3:24 p.m.

I was also saddened by the death of the swans. Everyday that I commuted to Ann Arbor, I looked forward to seeing the beautiful creatures. Like many people driving by, I always thought the swans should have been transported to a safer area. Regarding the $5000.00 reward... Since the person responsible for killing the swans will most likely not be found, perhaps the generous citizen offering the reward might contribute all or some of the money to the Humane Society in rememberance of the swans. Also, let us all contribute some time or money to the organization.

lmarcotty

Fri, Aug 7, 2009 : 11:14 a.m.

You have your priorities; I have mine. Facts that I consider before deciding to donate money and time to animal welfare causes include: animals have little, if any, protection under law and almost no government funding to support those protections, unlike human beings; and there is a proven and direct connection between violence towards animals and violence towards human beings - it's just that when the violence is towards animals, it is usually done with impunity. If you don't feel empathy towards animals, chances are you don't feel it towards humans, either. More important than those, however, is that the view you express - that other animals are nice but not as important as human beings are - is, logically and practically, wrong. With human population at almost critical mass, with the attendant environmental degradation, the destruction of plant and animal life and habitat is occurring at phenomenal rates - and much of it is irreversible. Of course, killing a few swans isn't going to cause a swan extinction (if there is still a viable swan population), but the attitude of "oh, well, they're just animals," is, writ large, the same as "well, it would be nice to keep them around, but humans need all the land and the water and the convenience of not having to watch out for other species and the fun of driving 4 wheelers through national forests and..." Besides, this is personal. I loved those swans.

stan

Wed, Aug 5, 2009 : 4:37 p.m.

So facts come out that completely vindicate Jordan's opinion and everyone who was chastizing her disappears. Typical. My earlier point about the absurdity of calling 911 after finding dead swans should be repeated again. What a waste of resources...in soooooo many ways.

humblepie?

Wed, Aug 5, 2009 : 12:42 p.m.

djm12652, the contributors to the $5k fund never considered the possibility that the cause could be accidental. They assumed from the get go that some terrible person did it, and their fund was set up for finding the culprit(s). What they didn't understand is that the DNR investigates all reported deaths of protected species, and if the cause is deemed intentional killing by a human, then a full investigation gets underway. I was at a wildlife hospital in Washington state some years back when a bald eagle was brought in with a BB lodged in its wing. guess who responded to investigate? the FBI. Point: The DNR had its own resources to investigate the death of the swans from the beginning. The vigilantes should have donated the money to the humane society or something. Jordan Miller was right.

djm12652

Wed, Aug 5, 2009 : 12:19 p.m.

Jodan, you made sense to me...and that I find surprising, being that you are in the A2 media. What I find amusing here is the people that would prefer to care for the swans over their human counterparts. Yeah, let's collect $5K for dead swans killed in an accident, but not buy a burger at the Fleetwood or Cloverleaf and give it to a hungry person...I am also taken aback by the vigilante musings in posts regarding this incident. WOW...I wish these same oh, so sensitibe people were willing to take in a 3 time convicted felon or child molester to live with them...because they care SO MUCH!

humblepie?

Wed, Aug 5, 2009 : 11:27 a.m.

Since the DNR has determined that the cause of death was an accidental automobile collision, I am wondering if the $5k can go toward finding the person(s) who were feeding the swans, thereby drawing them close to the road. I'll bet one of the contributors did it. Let's get 'em. What I have learned after watching this public display of insanity: Ann Arborites can be very cynical about their fellows, no matter how 'progressive' we would like you to think we are. I am relieved that this wasn't pinned on some innocent kid. You know there 'suspects' in the neighborhood: I'll bet it was that no good so and so kid... he hates swans, I can tell.

Fred Flyovah

Wed, Aug 5, 2009 : 9:38 a.m.

First of all, I have to ask: Why does Jordan Miller hate swans so much? That being said, I have to say that this comment thread sums up everything absurd about Ann Arbor's Liberal Elitist, intellectualizing tree-hugger psyche. If the people here with Internet access, a college education, and any level of compassion put as much energy into USEFUL activities as they do complaining about Art Fair, weeping about swans, or wasting their time criticizing GOP campaign strategies instead of coming up with effective strategies of their own, the world would be a far better place to live. Phew. I feel much better. I'll just be driving my Prius down to the cafe to grab a latte and fret about "the homeless problem" and the health care bill while I tell the first bum I see "sorry" with a condescending smile.

sarahlysis

Wed, Aug 5, 2009 : 8:47 a.m.

All other points aside, I find it hard to take seriously the arguments of someone who would write: "(if we're assuming that this was the act of people; there is a growing camp that thinks the swans probably hit by a car. It's all speculation at this point)..." Just curious, Jordan--how would the swans being hit by a car NOT be the act of people? :)

Blklight

Wed, Aug 5, 2009 : 7:13 a.m.

I agree with the sentiment of this article, good job Jordan

Tru2Blu76

Wed, Aug 5, 2009 : 12:28 a.m.

Okay, enough with opinions, lets just stick with the facts: 1. It appears that a group of adult and immature Trumpeter Swans were slain - purposely and according to the original report, there's some indication a firearm was used to do the killing. 2. Given that assessment: it is illegal to kill a protected species. Protected species in Michigan includes rattlesnakes. 3. Penalties are 'stiff' - confiscation of ALL equipment (including motor vehicles) associated with the crime and a $1000 fine for each incidence. If there were 5 swans killed, that would mean $5000. 4. So lets just accept that a serious crime was committed and that there are solid legal and societal reasons for apprehending the perpetrator(s). It is NOT any kind of misplaced fervor to enhance or aid law enforcement by the posting of a reward "for information leading to..." It is not necessary for anyone to write opinion pieces on this incident - it is those kinds of screeds which are "excessive" in this day and age. It's a matter of law - plain and simple. And it's a matter of citizens getting involved in helping law enforcement. As for those claiming that there are more important issues: heck, we are facing a mountain of important issues today. The rebuttal is valid: We've got to start somewhere. And lets just look at the big picture: here, people are active on this particular issue. Other places: people are active on other issues. Point: No one can "do everything at once" and we all have to pick our causes according to time, energy and financial resources. But WE as a whole - can tackle a heck of a lot of issues. To those devoted to other causes: we should say, "Good work, go at it!" Let those who want to pursue this matter about the illegal killing of these swans do so - with praise and good wishes. One final note: to Mr. Martel who seems to suggest that there's some kind of contradiction or hypocrisy involved between concern over the killing of swans and the move to start control measures on Canada Geese: there's no contradiction. Wildlife conservation has long included wildlife management. Just as wildlife conservation has long had restrictions against illegal hunting or killing or control of protected species. Wildlife conservation is about maintaining a balance. We have too few Trumpeter Swans and too many Canada Geese: end of story.

cd_booth

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 11:17 p.m.

That's like the Nazis saying "they're only jews."

capersdaddy

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 8:56 p.m.

your puppy/child question was an easy answer for most, i just tried to mix it up - that it's not so easy if the choice is your mother vs. "just" a child...vs. a puppy. on further thinking, it really is the "just" that set me off, and sounds like others, too. there's lots of agreement in these comments - people care about the swans, and people care about other people and all the charities that could use $5k. your point in the editorial is a good one, but the delivery is so dismissive - why can't the people who raised the $5k feel good about their cause? why belittle their caring, concern and pocketbooks? times are definitely hard for local charities - but why can't the fate of trumpeters be as valid a concern as feeding the hungry or a rabbit rescue? there also seems to be ambiguity in people's comments about "alleged" human involvement, hit by car, etc. i thought the article quotes the authorities mentioning that firearms were involved. swans or child or puppy - someone's pumping a gun out there with violent consequences - and a reward is, well..."just". congrats on the notoriety. you were upset that there was no hoopla over the biker - trust that that issue does have equal scrutiny and concern. doubt me? try "just a biker" for your next editorial and watch the comments fly in. my end point (although i'll keep reading): we all seem to share the same concern, lose the "just" next time and make room for all at the table - I'll bring lots of bread.

Jordan Miller

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 8:29 p.m.

CapersDaddy: How is that question germane to the point which you're trying to make (which, if I understand correctly, is about being human-centric). And let's not fool ourselves. Would the swan choose a human over saving its' own offspring, or even another swan? No way, that swan would take you down. I've seen swans take people out for much lesser offenses (running out of bread comes to mind).

capersdaddy

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 8:08 p.m.

i lived in nyc during 9/11 and it was devastating. i don't make light of it - and it's not about validation. it's about drawing lines. you drew yours between people and swans. some people use borders. your values draw a line of distinction - others' values draw lines between peoples and countries. where does it end and who's right? you chose to state "just swans" - and i took it to an extreme. i do appreciate this discussion - ultimately it highlights how human-centric we are. i am too - but "just swans" is so disrespectful. your puppy/child choice - let's add: you have to choose between saving a puppy vs. a child you don't know vs. your mother. who would you choose to save? and why is the cause of ones not chosen any less valid than the one you saved? who'd you save?

Jordan Miller

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 7:53 p.m.

Just to add, I wonder how much of this is about generosity and how much is about some sort of vengeance? Because I hear quite a few people expressing anger that something beloved was taken from them and that they want to get the guy who did it.

Jordan Miller

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 7:50 p.m.

Brett: No need for apologies! No big deal. Gina: How do we discern between belittling and criticism? Is there not a role for bloggers (which you and I both are) to express constructive thoughts about our society? The opinions we have may not be popular, but if they're expressed in an intelligent way, I certainly don't think that it's unfair. What do you think?

brettdegroff

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 7:42 p.m.

Jordan - sorry for the misunderstanding about your status as independent contractor as opposed to AnnArbor.com staffer.

Jordan Miller

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 7:35 p.m.

I don't think that comparing the death of a family of swans to the events of September 11 validates anyone's point.

Gina Valo

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 7:19 p.m.

I can agree that people should be outraged by the stats shared in the original post and moved to action by them. I happen to prefer donating to causes related to human suffering, but I don't think it's fair to belittle another person's legitimate act of generosity.

capersdaddy

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 7:13 p.m.

ok - so let's get back to your original post... they're just swans...they're animals. aren't we just animals too? some people in this world opined on 9/11: they're just americans. let's be realistic - just because you prioritize humans above other animals - some give priority to this earth - and once we save all the humans at the expense of all other mere animals - it really wouldn't be a place worth living. let's be realistic - there's a larger picture - and as much as you want to put people first, i'd wager the trumpeters were here before we were. so you have a choice - and you, Jordan, can choose humans over just swans, and let others choose to put their money on their priorities - which in the end benefit us all - by hopefully aiding and fading species, as well as apprehending a gun-toting HUMAN who likes to kill...just swans...for now.

Jordan Miller

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 6:56 p.m.

Point taken. Because I am, in fact, saying that I value human life before animal life. If given the choice between saving a child's life or saving a puppy, I would choose the child every single time, unabashedly. And I think that the amount of hoopla over the death of these swans in proportion to, say, the death of the cyclist hit by a car in Pittsfield Township, is ridiculous and wrong. That is not to say that I don't value animals or think that we shouldn't care about them. There are some great nonprofits that help animals (the Midwest Rabbit Rescue comes to mind). And I don't take issue with people supporting them; to the contrary, I think they should. For people who care deeply about animals, supporting organizations that help them is a logical and good choice. In this particular case, the money would be much better served going to a bird rescue organization. Or one that works to conserve the natural habitat of the Trumpeter Swan. In hindsight I should have included a couple of animal rescue and rehabilitation nonprofits on the list.

Andryac

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 6:43 p.m.

I wouldn't really agree with Amy if I were you Jordan, she doesn't seem to be getting your point. Example: Amy: "She's not saying that people are better than animals." Jordan: "Raise your fist in anger, but I'm going to say it: They're just swans. They're animals." That implies the idea of at least a loose hierarchy to me.

Jordan Miller

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 4:51 p.m.

As Amy noted, let's not lose sight of the original idea. It isn't that we shouldn't feel badly about what happened. From the post: "And if the swans were maliciously killed by people, which seems to be the general, albeit unproven, consensus, then it was a disgusting act."

a2zoo

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 4:44 p.m.

I am now offically ashamed of myself and racked with guilt for ever caring about the deaths of these swans. I am soooo sorry. What was I ever thinking. God for give me.

pseudo

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 4:42 p.m.

Its a false choice. I choose to do both. I agree with those who feel animals (innocent, free, majestic OR owned) are similarly important to our world as humans.

jh

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 3:54 p.m.

Well, I suppose I should find the fact that Im writing the 30-somethingth comment on this blog about swans ironic, given that the main point which I took from the original post was that we need to examine our priorities. Its ok with me if someone is sad that these birds were killed, it should not have happened. However, I have seen people literally step over other human beings who were lying in the street, Ive done so myself, and so have all of you (well, perhaps slightly to the side rather than over). Then we go home, and we spoil our pets, and if we can, we often spoil ourselves. The stats that Jordan cited indicate the crippling failure of our society, and our community, to care for its own. We care about is what is close to us, and if what is close to us is an animal, then we likely care more about that animal than we do about a human being who is out of our own circle. I dont think that people should give all their excess money to charity, or that you shouldnt grieve when something bad happens to either something or someone that you care about. But in the past few days there have been three news stories and almost 100 comments about a few birds that were killed. Should we not refocus our communal ire on more important issues? A few magnificent, dead birds are indeed worthy of note, but the Gelman plume is going to give your kids cancer.

davetrollson

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 3:44 p.m.

this was obviously an accident. we live in such a Litigious society, that we always feel the need to "hold someone responsible".

81wolverine

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 3:31 p.m.

Referring to them as "just swans" is my problem with this post. This is the kind of thinking that starts some people on the path to animal cruelty. That's why dogs, cats, and horses are abused every day in this country - people look at them as "just animals". I'm certainly not saying that you, Jordan, would ever do any harm to animals. But, your wording could have been much better. Acts of violence against animals - especially ones on the Endangered Species list like Trumpeter Swans - are done by people with a complete disrespect for animals. And like others have said, these acts need to be dealt with harshly in order to prevent the behavior from escalating into violence against humans. The $5,000 reward is totally justified and a good use of donated money in my opinion. For one thing, the police and sheriff's office, with hugely diminished budgets, don't have the resources to spend on an investigation. The reward money will help find the perpetrator sooner. All too often, people who commit these horrible crimes against animals get away with them. If a reward is what it takes to catch the person(s), it may act as a deterrent for others to do the same thing.

Amy Sumerton

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 3:27 p.m.

I don't want to add fuel to this already-too-ridiculous fire, but I think it's worth mentioning that I think a lot of people have missed Jordan's point. She's not telling you how to spend your money. She's not saying that people are better than animals. I encourage previous commenters to swallow that instinct to lash out, and re-read her original piece.

a2zoo

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 3:05 p.m.

My solution would be to find the people who did this, using the $5000.00 reward money. Then, after they are found guilty, fine them $10,000, and donate that money to a worthy human cause. That way everyone is happy, except the swans and the morons who killed them. Incidently, I have a Pontiac Vibe that is actually a Toyota Matrix. I buy American. The auto companies should do the same and make their cars in America.

Matt Sussman

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 2:12 p.m.

People are free to put their money toward whatever causes they see fit. If they want to pledge $10,000 to eradicate dust bunnies in haunted houses, that's their prerogative. But it's also everyone else's right to question that the money could be better spent.

Gina Valo

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 1:49 p.m.

I think the argument that the money could be better spent fails to consider the fact that the money would not be available if it weren't for this isolated event. The $5000 is not from an existing pool of funds, but rather from people who were moved to donate after the event occurred. It's not a situation of pitting causes against one another. The choice is between donating to Swan Friends or not donating at all. It's really no one's place to judge how others choose to donate.

Mumbambu, Esq.

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 1:47 p.m.

It's Canada Geese, not Canadian Geese. Comparing donations towards one cause over another is like trying to determine the ratio of Shrute Bucks to Stanley Nickels.

Chrysta Cherrie

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 1:45 p.m.

Jacksmom, I unpublished your most recent comment because it didn't contribute anything to the discussion beyond what you previously stated. Also, I don't think Jordan was trying to make a declaration about all charitable donations, particularly since the first word in the title of her entry is "opinion."

Jordan Miller

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 1:25 p.m.

Brett: To clarify, I don't work in the AnnArbor.com newsroom. I am an independent contractor. Or I would have voiced these opinions there as well. You also make a good point. How many mice have their necks crushed by mousetraps every day? But they aren't pretty. And yes, in response to others, this kind of violence (if we're assuming that this was the act of people; there is a growing camp that thinks the swans probably hit by a car. It's all speculation at this point) is a sign of other issues. But if we're justifying spending this kind of money to catch one person who injured a swan (on top of the work being done, I would assume, by the police), instead of diverting it to programs that might help many people, or animals, I think we're missing the mark. Big time.

theseeker

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 1:23 p.m.

I understand your anger. You can also understand why compassionate people are concerned about another species nearly going extinct. From a Michigan DNR web site: "Historically, trumpeter swans were most likely abundant throughout the Great Lakes region, even in the southern Michigan marshlands. On his travels along the Detroit River in 1701, Cadillac compared the abundance of swans to lilies among the rushes....By 1933, only 66 trumpeter swans remained in the continental United States, mainly in remote parts of the Rocky Mountains and Alaska." 66 animals!!!!! I hope the perpetrator(s) is (are0 brought to justice. And justice in this case would be maybe 500 hours of community service to a conservation group to offset the horrible loss of such rare and beautiful wild birds. http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,1607,7-153-10370_12145_12202-33030--,00.html

Sally

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 1:16 p.m.

Brett. It's not even the nature of the animal (swan vs. raccoon). It's that it's a sentient being, heartlessly "gunned down" by a human, just because he or she could. Not for food; not for defense; only for fun.

brettdegroff

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 1 p.m.

Clearly $5,000 could be put to better use. But people loved these swans and feel passionately about them. They want to do something. It's their money and they can do what they want with it. But it's still silly. No, you don't have to spend every dollar in the most efficient manner possible. Yes, the welfare of animals is a worthy pursuit. If you're outraged by something you should act. I don't think Jordan would disagree with any of that. But the reaction has been disproportionate. Would ducks warrant the same treatment? Racoons? Mice? What's the difference? That swans are pretty? Is that a difference that makes a difference? I agree with you Jordan. However, I wonder if you might have voiced these concerns in your newsroom when others were tracking the story with multiple posts and posting slideshows.

Gina Valo

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 12:56 p.m.

Cruelty to animals is often a precursor to other psychotic and dangerous behaviors. It's disturbing to think that someone in our community might be capable of committing such a heinous act, regardless of the victim.

Top Cat

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 12:46 p.m.

Jordan is absolutely right. They're just swans and with all the need around us, $5,000 for this cause is misplaced. It is the same sentiment that allows Canadian geese to multiply to ridiculous numbers and foul our public parks. Some of you people have seen too many Disney movies.

Kevin

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 12:36 p.m.

Just to contrast, I heard on the radio how the over-population of Canadian geese has become a huge problem. They are contaminating a lot of areas and causing too many bird strikes around airports. As a result, various measures are being taken to rid the geese. It's interesting how different kinds of birds can elicit such different responses.

Bob Martel

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 12:27 p.m.

The other thing to consider is that cruelty to animals is often a precursor to violence against humans. It is imperative that the guilty party(ies) be found and prosecuted so that the system can have a chance at preventing some future unfortunate act against someone's child, sister, brother, mother or father.

Sally

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 12:24 p.m.

Some people think of animals as lesser beings. I do not. I am certain that we are meant to share this Earth. Seeing the swans, hearing them, being with them, touched me. It brought me Joy. And Joy is hard enough to find, as "civilization" "advances" and people are farther and farther removed from Nature. When someone wantonly destroys one of my sources of Joy, I grieve and become angry at the loss. If others feel the same, it may be why they choose to donate money to finding the culprit who stole their Joy. Unfortunately, without such a reward, many people-who-know would not be motivated to telling what they know. I want my Joy back.

Warbler

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 12:06 p.m.

I strongly disagree with your opinion that people have gone overboard regarding the Trumpeter swans. We are a passionate community. We give, and we give often. Many good-hearted people have donated money for this reward, and now you are suggesting that they should have considered helping other worthy causes first? As a significant donor to both Food Gathers and the Humane Society, I am confident you have no idea who the people are that donated this money, because you were way off the mark with me. I am deeply offended at your suggestion that they are just swans. They were our neighbors, our friends, our shining light on many days when everything else was dark. The money that I donated to the reward fund is above and beyond what I contribute to our local charities every year. And I very proud to have done so.

Umich2008

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 12:02 p.m.

Yeah for having the sense and courage to voice your opinion. The idiots who committed this CRIME, should be punished. But again, they are just birds.

FurGots

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 11:46 a.m.

People tend to take action over what personally affects them, and the trumpeter swans obviously affected many people. The conservation of wildlife and biodiversity is just as important as other humanitarian cause, and possibly even more important, especially in the usual face of ignorance when it comes to preserving biodiversity on Earth. It has been good to see so many people interested in something in their local environments... Rachel Carson wrote once, Before one can take action for something, one must become affected by it. I agree that there are many things wrong in the world, but let people pick their battles - wildlife needs advocates, too. I am happy that so many people have shown support for the trumpeter swans. It is hard to believe that they were on the brink of extinction just decades ago, and currently live on as a reminder of what human conservation efforts can achieve.

a2zoo

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 11:36 a.m.

That's it, I quit!! I am turning a new leaf. Never will I spend another dime on my own happiness again. I am going to go out right now and shoot my Llamas, dogs, cats, and my pet bird. I vow to never take another vacation, never spend a another dime on pet food (what a waste) and to only eat what sustains me (no more eating out with friends for me). All this until all human suffering is done. Thank you Jordon, and thank you to the wonderful people who viciously ended the lives of the beautiful creatures. Who were, after all, only taking up valuable air that humans could be breathing. Thank you for opening my eyes!! Now, all you people out therer devastated by this hideous act. WAKE UP!!!!

jacksmom

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 11:31 a.m.

Well, thank goodness then, that people are free to do with their money what they choose. I'm sick and tired of people criticizing others' charity choices or what they choose to spend their money on. I'm glad that the reward is there, but frankly, it's none of my business how people spend their money, nor is it anybody else's. Individual values are just that and what is important to one is not necessarily as important to others. People should never be criticized for acts of generosity.

Bella

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 11:23 a.m.

I am glad that Jordan feels so compelled to contribute to the many charities that reside in Ann Arbor. I expect his six checks are in the mail already to each of these organizations. As for me I already contribute to more than one of these organizations, and will continue to contribute to them. As for the swans, I drove by them at least twice a week, taking great pleasure in their beauty, grace and devoted parenting.I was always relieved to see them there, many times right beside the road, and always worried about their safety not only from cars, but from the kind of stupid, cruel, and depicable act they were subject to. If Jordan Miller cannot understand why people are so upset about such a wanton act of cruelty, then I pity him. The destruction of our environment and its wildlife should be a top priority for all of us, especially when it is thrust upon us as this incident has been. These were protected animals, Jordan, and I and many like me will miss and mourn them for a long time. Where do I send my check?

Barb

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 11:20 a.m.

While I agree with a lot of what both sides are saying here, why on earth was calling 911 a bad idea? It was potentially an illegal act, right? Police should be involved, right? They know how to prioritize calls.

GraceJean

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 11:04 a.m.

Raise your fist in anger, but I'm going to say it: Very Cute Post.

stan

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 11:01 a.m.

First off, let me say that killing the swans was a completely despicable act and deserves to be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Having said that, Jordan was spot on in her posting. In these tough economic times, this is truly an example of misplaced priorities. I understand people were upset, but we need to keep a balanced perspective. For instance, one of the original stories stated that one of the people who found the swans had the audacity to call 911. Again, this is a tragedy but not something where a 911 call is required. It just seems to me that instead of people pool money together in a vengeful manner is not the most productive use of financial resources.

Rosie

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 10:59 a.m.

I think offering a reward in this case is about catching those that are responsible for this act and preventing these people from doing something like this again... to cast "they're just swans" vs. "hungry people" just seems like a silly argument. Of course, if I'm faced with a hungry swan vs. a hungry child, my cracker goes to the child, but that misses the point that this animals were killed and those that killed them need to be found to help prevent it from happening again.

Jordan Miller

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 10:44 a.m.

I think I wasn't clear in my previous comment. I was actually saying that $5,000 to the Humane Society would be a much better idea.

cheshirecat

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 10:28 a.m.

By this logic, no one should ever spend money on anything that's not a charity donation---for humans only. Do you also begrudge people the vacations they take, or even the money they donate to the Humane Society---because that money could be better spent on a human charity? People can focus on, donate money to and spend effort on multiple endeavors at once. Begrudging people their efforts to find a person who committed a terrible act on innocent animals is, quite frankly, unworthy of a blog post. And furthermore, true charity knows no species.

Jordan Miller

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 10:11 a.m.

It is a good point. But I wonder if this isn't because we are looking at individuals versus a group. $5,000 for the Humane Society would go a lot further in terms of helping a large number of animals. But we don't know each of those animals as individuals. They are just an anonymous group. There is no $5,000 for their individual abusers, but surely plenty of them have been abused.

cmatteson

Tue, Aug 4, 2009 : 10:03 a.m.

Jordan, you plea is sensible and heartfelt, but misplaced. If we used your logic we should disband the humane society and close veterinary hospitals and no one should keep any pets until all human misery is swallowed up in joy. We live in a free society where people can respond to what matters most to them. The brutal attack on these swans upset people not just because of what happened to those swans but also because the person who did this might harm other animals in the same way. Yes, we should raise money for all kinds of charities and we do. Sometimes those charities need to think of more effective ways of involving the community than merely crying over their empty purse. Some, like the United Way, have worked consistently over decades to ensure that some of us will never give them another dime. As a society, we need to do good to those around us, and sometimes those who need our help and protection are our animal friends.