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Takoma Park's Resolution On Foie Gras Is Laudable
Kudos to the Takoma Park City Council for its resolution opposing the production and sale of foie gras, the liver of a force-fed duck or goose ["Takoma Park Officials Frown Upon Foie Gras," Extra, July 10]. Opposing egregious animal cruelty does not mean focusing on trivia or ignoring human rights issues; a humane, modern and ethical society should -- and can -- take steps to minimize human and animal suffering. It's heartening to see more and more cities acknowledging that our broadening ethical framework includes animals.
Jon Camp
Takoma Park
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As a longtime Takoma Park resident and a former animal control officer in the District, I applaud the Takoma Park City Council for passing a resolution opposing the production of foie gras. This cruelty-laden pâté is made by shoving a tube down birds' throats and pumping large quantities of food into their stomachs, causing their livers to swell and become diseased. I have no doubt that if dogs or cats were subjected to similar abuses, it would lead to criminal prosecution.
By unanimously passing a resolution condemning foie gras production, the Takoma Park City Council is sending a message that this form of animal cruelty is too appalling to be condoned in a civilized society.
Erica Meier
Takoma Park
Government Handouts Don't Help in Long Run
With the usual fanfare and bravado, Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett (D), council President Michael Knapp (D-Upcounty), council member Valerie Ervin (D-Silver Spring) and Superintendent of Schools Jerry D. Weast recently rolled out yet another county government handout, a free "open" lunch site for students. Targeted at the Silver Spring cluster encompassing John F. Kennedy High School, Argyle Middle School and Georgian Forest, Strathmore and Bel Pre elementary schools, the program will provide a summer of free lunches and bus service to the 3,500 . . . students who attend these institutions.
