Gary Crosby was “unaware” of the Chick Wilder monument? And he is trying to “save” what beach? Has Mr. Crosby ever been to Willard Beach? Chick’s monument does not constitute a position in the dog debate as stated in the Sentry’s March 6 issue. Chick was not what Mr. Crosby called the “unofficial person who took control of the beach.” He was a city employee, a much revered and respected life guard for more than 30 years at Willard Beach.

As Helen Slocum states, Chick was never anti-dog. He wanted everyone to enjoy Willard for what it was, a public space. It was common sense to leave your dog at home if you were coming to the beach on a hot July day as it was common sense not to play catch with a hard ball if a number of people were lying on beach blankets nearby.

I think the regular South Portland dog owners, who have had to form an organization to protect themselves against misinformation, are the kind of people Chick would appreciate. Like him, they love the beach and scrupulously clean up after their pets - and even after other beach goers who often leave behind their refuse. As it says on Chick’s plaque, Willard should be a place for “recreation and community.” I believe “community” is not limited to canine-averse owners of beachfront property and their politically opportunistic allies. 

Belinda Conant

South Portland