Pantagraph.com | Letters | Killing animals shouldn't be considered a 'sport'

Note: All views and opinions expressed in reader comments are solely those of the individual submitting the comment, and not those of the Pantagraph or its staff.

old greg wrote on Feb 12, 2008 7:51 AM:

" i think that killen is fun and its a sport and we need meat "

huntin man wrote on Jan 21, 2008 9:05 AM:

" i think you should get more imformation before makin a guess that we "hunters" kill deer for no reason, maybe where he shot his was an over populated place. I hunt for meat its cheaper than the store and it lasts longer and tastes better. Im not asking you to change your mind just to see our "HUNTERS" side of this. "

Ris wrote on Dec 15, 2007 4:29 AM:

" It's all the same. As much as I dont want deer defecating on my lawn, I dont want people on my lawn either! We need to keep the city out of the country, thats the bottom line! "

Frontier Man wrote on Dec 14, 2007 10:01 PM:

" " Population control is a very necessary all over the United States! says Ris. For a moment there I thought we were talking about human population control not deer. Fortunately I re read it again. "

Fast Eddie wrote on Dec 13, 2007 9:14 AM:

" Texas West: WOW, 160/170 class is one fine animal. Not world class, but still one fine trophy. I have no doubt your hunt will be a success. A penned in animal can only avoid you for so long. Hunting at a zoo does have it's advantages. You can pull a Troy Gentry and who would ever know. Yup, I spent three days crawling thru brambles and bushes tracking this magnificent beast. Everyone gathered around the old pot belly is gonna be really impressed when you recount your harrowing tale of valor. "

Texas West wrote on Dec 12, 2007 11:45 PM:

" I decided on the .270 Winchester Fast Eddie. And...thanks for the great post! I am glad we are friends. Please keep up your good work...your efforts mean more game for us hunters. I will give you a hunt update in late January and let you know how the hunt came out down South. I am really looking for a 160-170 B & C Class whitetail. Will talk to you then Amigo. "

Ris wrote on Dec 12, 2007 7:23 PM:

" Is Chess a sport? There is no physical exertion, but there are many people that will agree that it is a sport. You cannot say a "definition" is exactly what is read in the Websters dictionary. Words have different meanings to different people and will NEVER have one True meaning. With that said, I would disagree that cheerleading or poms is a sport. I have a right to my own opinion as anyone who disagrees with hunting as a sport. "

'Sport' definition wrote on Dec 9, 2007 11:04 PM:

" According to Webster’s dictionary, ‘sport’ is defined as “An active diversion requiring physical exertion and competition”. Since the majority of deer hunters sit in a tower or brush to kill an animal, no “physical exertion” is exerted on the hunter’s behalf. Furthermore, “competition” involves the likelihood that either party has a ‘fair’ chance in the encounter. If someone has a rifle and it is aimed at the recipient’s head that cannot be considered “competition”. Per the definition, hunting is not a sport but rather ‘killing’: which is defined as “the act of terminating a life”. The writer is correct in the use terminology. "

to "Condescending tripe" wrote on Dec 9, 2007 10:17 PM:

" “the manner in which she made unfounded assumptions and flagrant judgments.” Please expand on how Ms. Seroka made unfounded assumptions or flagrant judgments. You were not there and did not see what Ms. Seroka saw. How dare you call in to question what she saw. You are the one making “unfounded assumptions” and “flagrant judgments.” Please explain how you are certain that the hunter did not kill a deer that was not within the legal limit? You accuse the writer of unfounded assumptions and flagrant judgments when that is what your entire posting is based upon. That is offensive. By the way, we all realize you are a hunter that is taking the role of someone that does not eat meat. "

Ris wrote on Dec 9, 2007 4:08 PM:

" Population control is a very necessary all over the United States! With the amount of City people building on our urban land, and these people are MOSTLY the ones who oppose hunting and whatnot because they just don't understand the concepts, Population control becomes an even more needed hobby/job, if you will. Pretty soon, people like Linda will be wishing that deer didn't walk its way onto her lawn, dirty it up with feces, eat the veggies out of the garden and completely trample her flowers! This is what WILL happen when the natural habitats for Deer and other wildlife becomes suburban housing and business districts. So, either understand the need for hunting, or the need to stop building in natural habitats! "

Bah wrote on Dec 9, 2007 3:11 PM:

" Hey Linda...have you noticed how many more collisions with deer there have been the past few years? You know why? Because there are too many people like you out there, and not enough hunters to keep their numbers in check. There isn't enough food in the winter for oversized populations. Would you rather they starve to death? Please, stick to talking about things you understand...pokemon perhaps. "

YA wrote on Dec 9, 2007 3:09 PM:

" You're right, it's much more human to kill them at meat processing plants. "

Fast Eddie wrote on Dec 9, 2007 2:43 PM:

" Why in the world would I need to protest anywhere when I have you Texas West? In just a couple of posts you've rendered every pro hunting argument on this thread null and void. Your an animal rights activists best friend. "

Texas West wrote on Dec 9, 2007 12:51 PM:

" And thank you fast Eddie for your positive feed back! Maybe with your strong commitment againt hunting you could form a big protest group, and picket outside of the local Cafe or wild game processor in maybe Sonora or Ozona Tx next year on opening weekend. You could even lie down and block ranch gates onto hunting leases!...think of it, see the positive things you can do for your cause! Let me know when you are planning this however...I really want to SEE IT! LOL My only hard decision I have to make is which rifle I will take on my Mexico whitetail hunt next month...what do you think Fast Eddie....270 Winchester with 140 grain ballistic tip? Works good on Texas Mule deer! Sorry...you got me exited now...got to go and work up some re-loads. "

Fast Eddie wrote on Dec 9, 2007 12:04 PM:

" Texas West: Thank you for your post. It exemplifies everything people find despicable about hunters. Killing just for the fun of killing. "

jj wrote on Dec 9, 2007 11:44 AM:

" Is it better to have the butcher slaughter the animal? Bashing in the head is better than shooting? You've a right to them, but why do you think there should be laws to force others to live by yours? State (NATIONAL) mourn the loss of freedom and the infringement of American’s rights day. January 1st. If not for some current reason or some ban, than other losses of freedoms that have been stripped away and/or the infringement of American’s rights. Or just because you're currently unhappy with government operations. In this State (and same goes in other states): high property tax & sin tax on gas & tobacco & health bans, Country wide: Tainted products, boarder problems, social security’s ultimate demise, etc. JANUARY 1ST, fly the flag half-mast for the State (NATIONAL) mourn what America use to be and was meant to be. Don’t have a flag you can lower. Roll it around the pole and tie it down for a day. Don’t own a flag, buy a little one and do the above. And send this on so everyone knows about it. Let's send a message to this state government and to federal government that WE'RE NOT HAPPY. "

Texas West wrote on Dec 9, 2007 10:20 AM:

" But it is a sport...a legal sport protectected by law and one that pays $$ for many wildlife preservation programs. That is the way it is and that is the way it will be, regardless of any comments. Just got back from a sucessfull Colorado elk hunt several months ago...West Texas goose and pheasant hunt 3 weeks ago, headed for Whitetail in Mexico in Jan 08, and Desert Coyote, Bobcat and Fox hunting during the "off" season. So good hunting fellow hunters!...negitive comments can be expected but remember, if a legal harvest, you have the law on your side! "

to Townie wrote on Dec 9, 2007 5:09 AM:

" Because it was probably a baby (just like you would tell the difference between an adult and a baby) and it probably was a man. That is how they knew. "

Fast Eddie wrote on Dec 9, 2007 2:30 AM:

" For, Is Everyone Done. I can't say thats what God had in mind in all certainty. One to google. The Nazarene Way Lection 38 "

Continue~~~~~ wrote on Dec 8, 2007 9:18 PM:

" I'm not trying to condemn anyone, it was just my opinion which I'm just as entitled to as you are. As for the woman that likes to hunt on HER property, WHEN she wants to, PAY HER TAXES, good Lord Lady, why are you so aggressive about how it? Like I said, I know the ramifications of not hunting, but it was just a baby fawn, that really bothered me. So I have feelings, so I care about Gods creatures and yes He intended for us to have food by hunting. I know what these poor animals go through that we buy in the stores too. They have horrible deaths in comparison to a hunter hunting. What can you do, it's a way of life I guess. "

Is everyone done~~ wrote on Dec 8, 2007 9:10 PM:

" bashing me?? I have went hunting before and never enjoyed it. I just happen to love animals and I just don't get the thrill of it all. People stand around and brag about how they shot this beautiful creature and spill a yarn a mile long. I understand a lot of people like to hunt and they eat what they hunt, but I was just upset it was a baby fawn and not given the opportunity to grow up. They are magnificent creatures and yes they do a lot of harm running on highways and farmers fields, but they are a dumb creature and don't do it to destroy purposely.Their's two sides to every coin and I just expressed my side. I've seen men think it's a powerful manly thing to do, and I've seen men look at it as a meal. "

Condescending tripe wrote on Dec 8, 2007 4:59 PM:

" I choose not to eat meat. I choose not to fish/hunt. I also choose not to spew condescending tripe at those who live differing lifestyles. Sport hunting that results in an impressive wall mounting and a rotting, unused corpse is wasteful. However, it is not wasteful if the body is used for more than bragging rights. Whether you agree with them or not, there are valid arguments supporting and opposing the hunting of deer. I know many hunters eat the meat or donate it to organizations that feed the homeless. Honestly though, I'm less offended by the original poster's view point than I am by the manner in which she made unfounded assumptions and flagrant judgments. Ms. Seroka called the hunter's manhood into question and intentionally slanted her information to make the hunter appear to be one step removed from a baby-slaying psychopath. I commend those that take a stand for their personal beliefs. It just drives me nuts when somebody uses sensationalized drama to distract others from noticing that they have yet to make any reasonable, relatively informed argument... "

vegetarian wrote on Dec 8, 2007 3:30 PM:

" I agree with you 100%. There are so many hobbies..why does any hobby have to include killing of an innocent animal? i have no respect for hunters. how would the hunters like it if they were constantly being hunted down and killed just for fun? "

Uncle Ted would love you.... wrote on Dec 8, 2007 6:24 AM:

" Last time I checked there was the "Circle of Life" and God put man at the top of the food chain. Boy, would Uncle Ted (Nugent) have fun with you, but most people on this posting are already doing a good job of educating you. Glad to know that out there are a majority of people that live in the 'real' world and understand the concept of hunting to put meat on the table, not just going for the trophy buck. My 17 year old got 2 this year and it will feed us for most of the coming year. Love it when my grocery bill goes down & I save gas too!!! "

Townie wrote on Dec 7, 2007 3:43 PM:

" How did you know it was a "baby"...and why did you use quotes around Man?? I'm not really for it or against it, but Linda...do you eat hamburger, chicken or basically anything that isn't naturally hunted in the wild? If you're a vegan, I understand. I guess my point is that if I was the deer, I'd prefer an amazing life ended by an arrow or bullet instead of being raised in some questionable conditions (slaughterhouses). You also might change your mind if you hit one with your car... "

come on Linda wrote on Dec 7, 2007 11:32 AM:

" You need people like us to shoot deer. The reason being is that your "beautiful" deer eat the corn which is fed to the cattle that you stuff your face with! I question your judgement here. It was probably not a deer if it was that small. I am guessing a coyote if it barely covered the tail gate. Now you are going to question the sport of coyote hunting??? Do you own a cat? "

hmmmmmm wrote on Dec 6, 2007 3:34 PM:

" I live in a wooded area in KY. The deer at this time of the year are not "little babies." I have not read any of the comments so I don't know if I am repeating anything. If this was not regulated it would not be a sport. Many years ago it was not regulated and people did it out of necessity. Be it for food, protection of their source of food, or managing the number of the animals. One may trap mice and rats, but it is not regulated so it is not considered a sport. This is done for the same reasons. Since they are not large, I guess they don't count. People consider them to be pests. Remember that deer are pests to many farmers. They can lose thousands of dollars a year due to the deer population. "

Me wrote on Dec 6, 2007 1:08 PM:

" Bambi killing is allright by me,,,kill those vermin! They are nothing more than hooved rats anyway! "

To: Spec 4 wrote on Dec 6, 2007 9:40 AM:

" Yeah, buddy. I am in the Military, have been to Iraq, and I love hunting. There is a reason we are allowed to hunt, because there is an excess of deer. I don't know what military branch you were in, but the Army is full of hunters. All of my military buddies go hunting more than I do. "

SOME wrote on Dec 5, 2007 3:09 PM:

" Some animals are delicious. Some are pets. Some animals should not be hunted(Dogs,kittys,Elephants,Whales and Big Cats). Some animals have been hunted since day one(deers,buffalos). If you dont want to hunt,Do not hunt... Dont want to eat a cow,OK,DONT eat the cow Dont want to call the sport a sport,DONT call it a sport. I want to hunt deers and eat them and eat cows and pigs on bread. I dont want or need some hippy leftover telling me what is what. You eat your yogurt and sprouts while I have my sandwich. You have the right to your yogurt,I have the right to meat sandwichs. Hippys cant stand Death Metal "

extremes..... wrote on Dec 5, 2007 2:43 PM:

" So is a fish suffocating from lack of oxygen inhumane too? And how many of you who think that hunting is an inhumane 'ambush' eat fish? At least you have a better chance at putting a deer down with one shot....and it doesn't suffer. Yes, there are always exceptions...but for the most part it's much more quick and humane than being stripped of it's carcass by a semi or a train. As long as the hunters and fishers eat what they gather.....and follow the rules of conservation laws of the state.....they should not be judged for saving money on groceries! "

New sport idea wrote on Dec 5, 2007 1:30 PM:

" How about if we get a bunch of guys (and girls) behind their full sized pickups, drive around central illinois at dusk, headlights on, and see how many deer we can actually hit in one night? The winner gets a new pickup and all the deer meat they can eat in a year. Seriously though, I have to slam on my breaks at least once a week to avoid hitting one of these pests. I challange anything that thinks we don't have a problem to come visit North West Mclean county at dusk. Just make sure to arrange for a ride home. "

Food not sport wrote on Dec 5, 2007 1:11 PM:

" Linda. I know lots of men who are hunters. Not one of them do it for the thrill of a sport. They do it for the food, which is better for you than the food you get in the grocery store. They don't do it to feel like a "man". They are already men and confident in their abilities. It is controled, and only a limited number of licenses are issued each year. It is not cruel. It is necessary. And alot more humane than starving to death, which is what would happen to the deer if the population was thinned occasionally. The people who hunt for the pure thrill of it or for a trophy are a very very small minority. Most hunters are very responsible. You need to get to know the facts before you attack a way of life. "

Just one persons idea wrote on Dec 5, 2007 10:55 AM:

" Get over it! "

Jim wrote on Dec 5, 2007 9:04 AM:

" If hunting is a sport then call Vegas and try to place a bet on it. "

Hunter wrote on Dec 5, 2007 4:16 AM:

" I bet the Steak you got at the store died of natural causes????????? "

To Linda wrote on Dec 4, 2007 10:57 PM:

" One weekend a year my husband goes deer hunting. If he is lucky and skillfull enough to kill a deer, we eat some of the meat, but the majority we donate to a local food pantry. He has all of his teeth and no potbelly. He is educated and has a job. He runs six to seven miles a day. He is not lazy. Hunting is a lot of work - a lot more work than going to Kroger. He prepares for his hunting weekend weeks in advance. Manually pulling a deer out of the woods is not an easy job and requires the hunter to be in good physical condition. "

I agree with Linda wrote on Dec 4, 2007 12:06 PM:

" It should not be considered a sport. I think we should only classify it as a hobby. "

Idea! wrote on Dec 4, 2007 6:28 AM:

" Hunting is something that has gone on for years and will continue to go on for many more years. I guess if you don't like to see dead deer in the back of pick up trucks then maybe you should pack up and move to Laguna Beach. "

Ambush wrote on Dec 4, 2007 12:45 AM:

" What is the problem with ambushing prey. At least they do not have the time stressed. Would you prefer to chase the pour animal around scaring it silly then killing it? "

OH BOY another debate getting started. wrote on Dec 3, 2007 8:26 PM:

" Thanks Spec 4 . So all of us so called hunters are " wanna be's and cowards" . Isn't a "REAL MAN" one that provides for and takes care of his family? So what you are saying is that you can only be a "REAL MAN" if you join the service? And hunting maybe a "ambush" to some of you , but to the rest of us it helps us provide for our families. The point is that every year someone that has never hunted and has NO idea of what hunting consists of gets a wild hair up their butt and starts stuff like this. The thing I find funny is it only happens during deer season. What about the other hunting seasons? No complaints then. "

Don't understand wrote on Dec 3, 2007 7:34 PM:

" I don't understand the logic of many animal rights activists. They are very radical in regards to protecting animals, but have no desire to protect unborn children. "

daveishere wrote on Dec 3, 2007 9:23 AM:

" Being originally from the city I never really understood the need to hunt. That is until I moved to Streator and totaled my car when a deer ran out in front of me. I’m lucky I wasn't killed. Many people are killed by accidents involving deer. I think in counties that have a certain number of people deer hunting should be allowed year round. The reality is when an area becomes populated large creatures such as deer on dark unlit road becomes a safety issue. "

Woman Hunter wrote on Dec 3, 2007 7:05 AM:

" I really don't give a hoot what these "anti" hunting people think . Hunting is no different than herding up cattle slaughter! I own land, and should I choose (which I do) to hunt whitetail deer or game birds on it, that is MY business and MY right. You uninformed, under educated in conservation people, have NO business and NO right to tell ME what I can do on MY land until you pay MY mortgage and property taxes...and OH not to mention, pay my grocery bill to feed a family of 6!!! I hunted for 4 years before shooting my first deer. I shot a large doe for FOOD for my kids. The meat from this deer is more lean and better for them. My husband and 2 of my daughters also hunt, a third daughter wants to hunt in a few years and the other doesn't want to hunt, but she respects the reasons why we hunt and understands conservation too. She is our photographer/videographer when we hunt. "

:-) wrote on Dec 2, 2007 7:59 PM:

" Sounds to me that someone is a sucky hunter. Yah big boy, the Iraqis can't hear or smell 1/100 as well as a deer so would be much easier to bag. Deer taste much better too. "

Landowner wrote on Dec 2, 2007 3:25 PM:

" Not a chance Jack Daniel Devine. My property is posted no hunting. That doesn't really matter though. Just do what the other "ethical" hunters do. Just trespass. "

:) wrote on Dec 2, 2007 1:50 PM:

" I like to eat deers. They are really tasty !!! MMMMMMM....... "

Spec 4 wrote on Dec 2, 2007 11:49 AM:

" I am an honarably discharged veteran of the armed services of the United States. These young men that get some kind of an ego trip charge out of dressing in their camo and sitting up in a tree waiting to AMBUSH, yes that is the term, AMBUSH a defensless animal should enlist and be a real man and get on the ground in Iraq or Afganistan. Hunting is what one animal does to kill another animal. This consists of stalking your prey. These wanna be's that sit in a tree and AMBUSH an animal are cowards. "

Jack Daniel Devine wrote on Dec 2, 2007 7:21 AM:

" I wish more land owners in Illinois would open their land to responsible deer hunters. Over populated deer cause damage to crops, natural vegetation and higher vehicle insurance rates. Hypocrite vegetarians unknowingly encourage killing of rabbits and deer that eat the farmers vegetables. Meat eaters that believe it is somehow nobler to purchase your murdered food killed by someone else are also hypocrites. Hunting and fishing license fees are what pays for responsible conservation in Illinois. I would rather see a deer killed by hunting than one splattered all over the road causing vehicle damage. If I ever hit one on my motorcycle it is not going to be pretty. I believe that the average Illinois hunter has a million times more ethics than the average P.E.T.A. member. "

re:when wrote on Dec 2, 2007 7:12 AM:

" An "ambush" is still hunting. Most animals hunt by this method. You have to do a lot of scouting and recon to find the perfect spot for a stand. It's not like hunters pick random trees. I've tried chasing deer down with a sharpened spear but was unsuccessful. They're simply too fast and don't respond to commands like "stop!" "

Wolfgang(not a hunter) wrote on Dec 1, 2007 6:35 PM:

" Deer hunting reduces road deaths, keeps disease and their population in check, due to a lack of natural predators. It is required for wildlife management. Information is your friend! "

when wrote on Dec 1, 2007 5:53 PM:

" you sit in a blind and wait for a animal to wander by,wheather baited or not,THIS IS 'NOT HUNTING! IT'S AN AMBUSH! "hunters" I don't think so! "

Stewy wrote on Dec 1, 2007 5:50 PM:

" there is an over abundance of criminals,WHEN DOES THE SEASON OPEN? "

Lyme sufferer to Clinton Mom wrote on Dec 1, 2007 10:04 AM:

" Clinton Mom's comment that the deer tick is the carrier for Lyme Disease and killing the deer will kill the ticks and (by inference) the disease, is incorrect. The tick has two preferential hosts, mice for one stage of development, and deer as adult ticks. Without the deer, the ticks, having grown up on the mice and now adults, look for another source of blood: my dog, your kids, you, me.... The ticks apparently prefer deer, but feed opportunistically. If we greatly decrease the deer popuation they will make do with what is available; as they do when they have climbed up on a stalk of grass to wait, and a deer does not pass by but you do. Lyme (Borrellia) and other tick borne infections are serious and we need to do what we can to decrease and eradicate them, but decreasing the deer population is not the easy answer we would all like to find. If it were, I would be all for it, particularly in heavily populated areas. It just isn't an action that will work; there are too many substitute mamallian hosts. "

Frontier Man wrote on Dec 1, 2007 4:41 AM:

" Good Job mentioned Hitler who was vegan, it did not prevent him from culling.(No comment please) Take a professional attitude, within days there should be no sign that you were ever there. Hunting gives the wild animal a chance which a domestic animal never really gets. Inspite of real improvements at abatoirs it is not the optimum way to get clean meat. Make it a good clean shot which greatly improves the taste. Hunting reduces your Carbon footprint. No waste plastic, multiple trips to the store. You hunters need to come out of the closet as real Greenies let people know you are doing your little bit to save the planet . 1 bullet saves a lot carbon emmissions when you add up fencing, tractor usage, fuel, transportation fertilizers on domestic. You are heros not recognised for your contribution the environment. Can you imagine all the CO2 which you are saving the environment? Kill only what you can consume. Many people eat from a restaurant, store etc and unaware what is actually involved. "

Dave wrote on Nov 30, 2007 4:46 PM:

" Another Hunter Wrote: Without a weapon, a human being would not stand a chance against a 250 pound whitetail buck. "///// Sounds like you saying deer hunting is a kill or be killed proposition. Damn thats scarey. "

Another Hunter wrote on Nov 30, 2007 2:19 PM:

" The anti-hunter group thinks that everytime a hunter goes to the field, he/she shoots something. Very much incorrect. It is not at all easy to kill deer. I challenge any anti to head to the woods and try to get within 25 yards of a whitetail - of any size - without that animal knowing they are there. Good luck. I also don't think you really know how these animals live. They are not all that cute when they have been urinating on themselves for a month while rutting. I have also witnessed a buck gore an already dead doe because she wouldn't get up to breed with him. These creatures live by nature's laws, not ours. It is not at all like a Disney movie. Believe me, that same "cute" deer would not have the same sympathy for you if it were unafraid of people and decided you were too close for its liking. Without a weapon, a human being would not stand a chance against a 250 pound whitetail buck. "

Consider this... wrote on Nov 30, 2007 10:52 AM:

" Imagine where State Farm would be if we did'nt allow for the harvest of deer. Vehicle/deer collisions would skyrocket. Claims would be through the roof. Hopefully no bodily injury/death would be involved. Just imagine what would happen to our lawns and gardens. Disease would surely spread to the "domestic" animal population. Guys and Gals...don't forget your Deer Harvest Pins! "

UMMM Linda wrote on Nov 30, 2007 9:58 AM:

" A lot of hunters do hunt deer for food. And think about it, if it wasnt for hunters, deer would be way over-populated! That would mean disease would spread like wildfire!!! So I give kutos to Deer Hunters!!!! Bring on the Deer Sasuage and Jerky!!!!! "

Girl Hunter wrote on Nov 30, 2007 2:52 AM:

" It is not just men who hunt Ms. Seroka. There are many women who like to feel like "a big man" by hunting as well. Don't be so stereotypical. Maybe you should try hunting yourself it my give you a new outlook on life and you may in turn lighten up a bit. "

Ms Seroka wrote on Nov 29, 2007 6:19 PM:

" 99% of hunters are responsible, law abiding citizens and should not be judged based on the actions of a few. We're not all wild, drunk, "cowboys" as one ingorant reader put it. I am an avid hunter and consume any game I harvest. Also, did you also know that the Illinois DNR also encourages a program in which hunters pay, out of their own pocket, about $80 for the processing of the deer meat which is then donated to shelters to feed the starving and/or homeless? I haven't heard of too many of your meat processing plants doing the same. When you want to go to the store and buy some meat to donate a couple 10 oz steaks I'll go with you and donate 100 lbs of healthier, natural meat. Please think before you speak, or in this case think before you write. "

Mel wrote on Nov 29, 2007 4:23 PM:

" Linda, watch ESPN 2 on Sunday mornings. It'll give you an idea about what it's like being with a hunter. And you don't even have to get out of your PJs. "

To: not a sport wrote on Nov 29, 2007 3:34 PM:

" In illinois, using high powered rifles to deer hunt is illegal. You obviously have never hunted. Do some research before you spout drivel. "

Chicago??? wrote on Nov 29, 2007 1:21 PM:

" Are you from Chicago and dont know where meat comes from? Why go to the store and BUY meat when the state allows you to get meat for much cheaper? The smaller ones taster better any ways! "

To: I agree...sort of wrote on Nov 28, 2007 9:33 PM:

" Nice push for cross bows! However, hunting is not childs play no matter what instrument you choose to use or are allowed to use! Please don't comment so loosely when people who actually know what you are talking about can read it! "

just another opinion wrote on Nov 28, 2007 9:28 PM:

" Does size matter? I bet you don't care where your veal comes from do you???? As an educated vegetrian, its no suprise that wild natural game meat is heathlier than your Kroger brand grade A processed super beef. "

ugh wrote on Nov 28, 2007 8:24 PM:

" Here we go with the anti-hunting. What's the other option, lady? Have a bunch of insetual animals with disease overpopulate the area so we can run over them with our cars and they can jump through our windows into our homes? We DO eat them, and some people can't afford to go buy great steaks at the store, and Venison is VERY good meat to eat. Why don't you do a bit of reasearch before you criticize hunting. "

hunters! wrote on Nov 28, 2007 8:12 PM:

" give it a rest and just follow the rules! move on to something else - look to your left....there's a kangaroo!!! "

overpopulated wrote on Nov 28, 2007 6:53 PM:

" Some places there are so many deer that if they aren't hunted they are going to end up starving and dying of disease any way. "

Levi wrote on Nov 28, 2007 6:41 PM:

" To the poster of the original comment - if you do some research you'll find that deer meat is one of the best meats you can possibly consume. Gotta love the grociery store steroid enhanced beef and chicken!!! If more people would take up decent hobbies such as deer hunting, there would be less cattle and chickens having their necks snapped by hydraulic rams each day. Really humane! "

think before you speak wrote on Nov 28, 2007 6:27 PM:

" THANK YOU ELMER FUDD!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I COULDN'T AGREE WITH YOU MORE!!!!!!! And the above comment made to me. I make damn good money. I provide a very good life for my family. My family and I love deer and deer meat. People need to find something else to complain about . Every year when hunting season comes around people start acting like deer are the greatest thing in the world. As mentioned before by someone else. Some of the funding to maintain state parks is provided by the money we (hunters) spend on our tags , habitat stamp , and hunting licenses. What about the other animals being hunted. Nobody really complains about that. The State of Illinois wants to open hunting back up at Jubilee Park because of all of the accidents involving deer and cars. They put a stop to the hunting there years ago but look now. over populated. I think it was three weeks ago they did a interview on the news with park officals from Jubilee about the problem they are having an maybe opening hunting back up in the near future. "

To: Grocery Store wrote on Nov 28, 2007 4:56 PM:

" What gives you the right to comment on other people's IQ? So if they have the same IQ as yours, then they can post a comment?!!! You call yourself 'Grocery Store'! Be reasonable! The Pantagraph allows everyone the right of speech. I agree that the person whose comments on Brenstalka or whatever his name is, was harsh. I used to hunt when I was younger and I am proud that I never allowed an animal to suffer for any more than necessary. Unnecessary forms of torture like the one on the sheep does say a lot about a person's mental makeup. Often, that is the first thing they see in adults with problems - torture of animals. So we hunters do walk a fine line - what we say here about hunting is also being read by children. "

Grocery store wrote on Nov 28, 2007 4:11 PM:

" I love all the comments about 'food comes from grocery stores.' As if somehow they melted down plastic and turned it into bacon. You people do realize that cows, pigs, chickens, sheep, all start out as cute cuddley little animals? You do realize that from day one they are fed chemicals and hormones so that they can one day be lined up and slaughtered on an industrial scale? You do realize that cows get violated to make milk and cheeze? That your shoes are made out of some animal's skin? You realize that by the time they arive at the store that they've been drowned in bleech, preservatives, iodine, and a cocktale of other foriegn ingredients? Oh wait, it's only wrong if it's a cute animal right? If it's ugly and kept in captivity it's entire life, somehow that makes it ok? Wow. This is why democracy doesn't work. The Pgraph should require some sort of IQ test before they allow people to post. "

LDT wrote on Nov 28, 2007 3:19 PM:

" Another thing....it is intriquing to me that people call out hunters like they are a bunch of cave men. I guess it is easy to be high and mighty when you may be able to afford to eat out in luxurous restaurants and purchase the finest meat in town from different meat shops. The truth is, however, that many hunters could do these things as well. Instead, many of them would rather hone their skills and their ability to provide from themsleves as opposed to being obligated to purchase something from someone else. If the world ever did have a massive catastrophe and people werent able to purchase things from a grocery store, it would be the hunters who are able to survive. Everyone else would die shortly after the domesticated dogs, cats, iguanas, spiders, snakes, and other pets die off. Most of the uppity nonhunters who condemn hunting would be stuck eating Rover or Jinx out of desperation. Being unequipped to hunt and lacking the skills to do so, many nonhunters would starve and die. Puts things into perspective about who is sophisticated and a notch above the others in evolutionary standards huh. "

LDT wrote on Nov 28, 2007 3:11 PM:

" I have read a few comments on here about how unsophisticated hunters are. One of the most commonly cited reasons is that there are grocery stores all over the place. Therefore, the opposition cries, hunting is barbaric and unneccesary. I mean, a hunter who kills an animal and then uses it to feed his family, or donates it to charity, is far from a barbarian. I do not hunt personally. But I dont feel that hunters are barbarians or unsophisticated. One person said that hunters need to move to the 21st century and buy their meat like many other people. Well, thats like saying that someone who sends a letter via USPS and not via email is unsophisticated because email is more modern; or saying that reading paper copies of pantagraph is unsophisticated due to the ease of using the online edition. Just because something may be "outdated" doesnt mean that the people who do it are barbaric or are a step lower on the evolutionary chain. "

to: Brenstalka needs to be wrote on Nov 28, 2007 3:03 PM:

" You seriously need to be on some medication. Wishing that someone rots in hell.....sounds like you are a little loopy. "

who cares? wrote on Nov 28, 2007 2:27 PM:

" Vegan hunter...you're confused in your head and then you have the gall to write about it! Plants have feelings so why not hunt!! YOU ARE THE DUMBEST OF THE LOT! "

To: Brenstalka wrote on Nov 28, 2007 2:01 PM:

" There are many people (not meaning you) who also like to hunt things that are less intelligent than they are. Which, I suppose, is why they don't hunt. "

To: What? From Anchor wrote on Nov 28, 2007 1:58 PM:

" I don't care if he killed it with a claw hammer if he intends to clean it and eat it....heck I don't care if he doesn't clean it, as long as he eats it. I don't consider hunting for food SPORT hunting. If a hunter kills an Rhino only for its horn, THAT is sport. Killing and eating a deer is just plain good old fashion hunting. "

To Me: wrote on Nov 28, 2007 1:55 PM:

" Don't forget golf, that's not a sport either. "

stupid wrote on Nov 28, 2007 1:23 PM:

" get life lady it stuipd its the way of life "

What? wrote on Nov 28, 2007 1:04 PM:

" Educated hunters are conservationists who strive to maintain the necessary balance that nature needs. Urbanization has depleted a lot of the natural predators of these animals, so a certain number do in fact need to be killed to maintain equilibrium. Plus, everything dies. As long as he killed it with a good shot, I'm fine with it. "

vegan turned hunter wrote on Nov 28, 2007 12:16 PM:

" When I learned of the studies that showed plants have feelings, I decided to go back to sport hunting. A plant has no chance to escape but an animal does. The animal can evade me, the plant merely sits there silently screaming as I rip it off and begin munching. Carrot and veal have few differences when it comes to how they're raised and killed. Hunting seems much more fair. "

Brenstalka wrote on Nov 28, 2007 11:15 AM:

" For me, it's not a sport. I just like to kill things less intelligent than me. I think it's the thrill of the hunt. One time, I had a sheep fenced in a 40'x40' battleground. I hunted it with only a toothpick, a pair of pliers, and a pack of matches. He gave me a good fight, but in the end, I was triumphant. "

liberal republican wrote on Nov 28, 2007 10:52 AM:

" I do not hunt, but I like to shoot. I used to hunt a lot, but it lost its appeal to me with the last Pheasant I killed. I do not like venison, and most of the examples of venison that I have seen use various methods to conceal the taste. From this, I must assume that most hunters do not hunt for the meat. (Beef is better.) That said, man has jurisdiction over the earth. Hunters have the right to legally hunt. I may personally find ballet, hockey, rap, and most of these postings not to my liking. Should we outlaw these too? "

Elmer Fudd wrote on Nov 28, 2007 10:06 AM:

" To I agree ....sort of; I can tell by your post that you have never hunted deer and most likely don't even own a gun. I hunt and If you think it is so easy i would like to have you show me how to hit a deer with a single projectile when the deer is running at 45 to 50 mph in dense cover. Also there is a law in illinois that states you CAN use a crossbow but only if you are Handicapped and have a Doctors note. Crossbows are easier to hunt with than a regular bow that's why they let the Handicapped use them. I invite you to go hunting with me and we will work off all those veggies you ate for thanksgiving. Do you own a crossbow? "

To: Oh Opie wrote on Nov 28, 2007 9:29 AM:

" The point I was trying to make is that she is stating that this guy was hunting merely for sport. Did she ask him that? Did she ask him why he killed such a small deer? I am a hunter and I can personally tell you from experience that I have killed small deer that looked a whole lot bigger from a distance. I have no problem with her stating her opinion on hunting in general. I do however have a problem with her accusing a man of something based solely on her opinion and no facts. Also:If a guy is hunting for sport, or to feel like a big man, as Linda put it, I seriously doubt he was wanting to kill the smallest deer in the woods. "

Anonymous wrote on Nov 28, 2007 8:55 AM:

" I think little deer taste good!!!! Stop your whining! "

to: intrigued wrote on Nov 28, 2007 7:07 AM:

" 14.325 feet. "

to think before you speak wrote on Nov 28, 2007 6:57 AM:

" Aww!! Aren't you such a family man?!! How nice of you to 'provide for you family'!!! Don't you make enough money to buy food at the grocery store?! Feels like we have a Neanderthal walking around! Get with the new millenium people - those days of picking meat off your teeth with a bone is long gone! Get civilized. "

I agree....sort of wrote on Nov 28, 2007 6:56 AM:

" Deer hunting is so extrememly easy, especially when morons like the guy yuo wrote about are out there killing the babies. And I think we are all smart enough to know that the people that do it enjoy the primal thrill they get out of killing, the food they get out of it is just a perk. If deer meat was poisonous to humans they would still hunt them. But, killing a deer with a deerslug from a shotgun takes about as much skill as fishing with dynamite. I would like to see legislation requiring hunting to be done with Crossbows. Then you old, fat hunters would have to move out of the way and let those with some skill take over. "

hunters pay their way.. wrote on Nov 28, 2007 4:50 AM:

" Did anyone add that the reason Illinois does a good job of conservation is that the fees paid by hunters and fishermen suport the programs. The statistics show most deer starve to death compared to the numbers taken by hunting. Hunting is one of the great traditions we have. It is amazing to me how the only time you hear about hunting is when some biased news story comes out with something negative. Most hunters are very conservative, support hunter safety and are very good citizens. We need to acknowledge each other's opinions, but remember the hunters do support a majority of the conservation activities in our state... "

think before you speak. wrote on Nov 27, 2007 10:52 PM:

" people need to think before they speak. I hunt and will do so until I can no longer. People think it's cruel and deer die a slow death. That is not the case. Like all other hunters, I pay good hard earnded money for my tags to hunt. I don't hunt to feel like a "big man" . I hunt to provide for my family. And for the people that talk about rifle hunting. YOU CAN NOT rifle hunt in Illinois. it is ILLEGAL in Illinois to use a rifle as mentioned above. If we stoped hunting , you would be complaing about all of the crop damage, property damage and vehicle damage from hitting them. either way you people have to have something to complain about. we stop hunting , produce prices go up do to over population of deerand the produce being eaten. you would complain. vehicle insurance rates would go up because of the over population and cars hitting them. you would complain. People need to think before they speak!! P.E.T.A. = People Eating Tasty Animals. :) "

Oh Opie wrote on Nov 27, 2007 8:21 PM:

" YOU, sure sound very intelligent (for your sake let me spell it out - I'm being sarcastic) since you cannot accept the fact that Linda is free to write her opinion. The fact that your opinion differs from yours doesn't make you any smarter. I applaud her for signing her name. "

... wrote on Nov 27, 2007 7:40 PM:

" Some people don't want to pay an arm and a leg for processed food from the grocery store. I don't hunt but if it keeps the population so that we can all live in harmony than go for it. "

intrigued wrote on Nov 27, 2007 6:51 PM:

" I know this doesn't really pertain to the actual story, but does anyone know if there is a specified range for hunting close to residential areas? "

To Paladin wrote on Nov 27, 2007 3:43 PM:

" I don't know a single hunter who makes a kill and feels even a fraction of the pride that you apparently do from trying to make people look stupid by pointing out their typos. Also, you informed BrettinBloomington that you consider a .223 a high powered rifle. Was there a point to that statement? A .223 is not a shotgun, muzzleloader, or pistol, and therefore it cannot legally be used to hunt deer in Illinois. "

Not taking a side wrote on Nov 27, 2007 3:31 PM:

" To "To "Offended"": studies have shown that plants do experience a kind of pain when they are cut and/or harvested. Some actually emit a 'scream'. We're at the top of the food chain, so when people say they are vegetarians, I simply think, great, they're one rung below me. "

Paladin wrote on Nov 27, 2007 3:07 PM:

" ...to "to Paladin", yeh, you iz rite, I lib in momeez bacemint. Come on, give me something to work with, here. Want to tall me all about your savage hunter skills? "

Paladin wrote on Nov 27, 2007 2:52 PM:

" ...by the way, "Redneck Hunter", there IS a difference between "there", "they're", and "their". You don't help your argument by looking like a rube. No one was impressed by your counter-argument usage of "visceral", although they may have been impressed by your use of a thesaurus. My advice? Don't work against yourself... Also, "BrettinBloomington", I tend to consider a .223 a "high-powered rifle", but that is probably because I have used it to hunt the only animal that really deserves to be hunted, which is "humans"... Otherwise, you both made good points, and understandable arguments, and I salute you for that. "

to Paladin wrote on Nov 27, 2007 2:40 PM:

" spoken like a guy taht still lives in his mom's basement "

Don wrote on Nov 27, 2007 2:38 PM:

" I do not hunt and I believe kill only what you will eat.I do not like the sport of killing.However the deer population is way out of control.Our highways and byways show the sighns of this.With killed deer laying on our roadways.They are dangerous to motorists.They are such a danger I feel there should be a longer hunting season with guns not bows and arrows.I feel they should even put a bounty out for them.But please stop killing the Coyote like you did the wolf. Because thats the reason were over ran with deer.I would rather see the deere killed by a RedNeck then laying along side a road that caused a accident. "

Paladin wrote on Nov 27, 2007 2:27 PM:

" ...feed the deer, feed the deer, feed the deer, feed the deer, shoot the deer. Duck, duck, duck, duck, goose. No difference from any other livestock, so stop fooling yourselves. You just spend more money to make yourself feel like a frontiersman (plus you get to play with guns, oh joy!). Hope it helps you sleep at night. You want to hunt? Spend the money and go out to a REAL frontier (Great Northwest Canada, Africa, Arctic / Antarctic, Steppes of Asia, Yanamamo Country... somewhere that YOU run the risk of being killed). Take a knife, or a bone recurve bow. Otherwise, spare the rest of us your delusions of being a "hunter", rather than an "animal control euthanizer" without credentials, and without any particular skill. "

Dear Linda wrote on Nov 27, 2007 2:26 PM:

" You claim in your letter that he "evidently shot" the young deer. Did you see him shoot it... or did you just see it in the back of the truck. Probabilities are 90% that he struck the deer with the vehicle. Law in Illinois allows roadkill, including struck deer regardless of age, to be harvested for food. Maybe he should have just let the carcass rot on the side of the road so as not to upset the whiners of the world. "

To: Linda Seroka wrote on Nov 27, 2007 2:18 PM:

" Have you ever been to a slaughter house? How do you think Hunting animals compares to lining them up and killing them? That meat you see in the store came from an animal that was raised, killed, and butchered to feed you. How is that different from a hunter stalking and killing a deer (or any animal for that matter)? It seems you seeing dead 'Bambi' somehow makes killing animals for food less appealing to you. I suggest you look in your ice-box and reconsider your stance on killing animals. "

Hillary wrote on Nov 27, 2007 2:14 PM:

" So, William, who do you plan to vote for, Mitt the varmint hunter or Rudy? "

Opie wrote on Nov 27, 2007 1:51 PM:

" It is unbelieveable to me the people that write letters to the editor that make no sense, make no point (other than declaring their lack of intelligence), hold no water and show how uninformed they are. And they actually see no problem with signing their name to it! Thanks to Linda and the others like her, I feel smarter every day. "

Oh Jeeze! wrote on Nov 27, 2007 12:56 PM:

" Ask yourself this? What wild animal in the United States kills more people each year? The deer. If the deer get over populated, hhmm more people die. Deer carry ticks that carry lyme disease, deer run out in front of cars and get hit, plus not counting the small number of attacks from deer. I am not a hunter, but people in my family are. I don't see anything wrong with hunting for meat. You raise animals for meat or purchase it in the store don't you? "

BrettinBloomington wrote on Nov 27, 2007 12:46 PM:

" To ..Not a Sport... FYI you cannot use high powered rifles in IL. Only shotguns,blackpowder rifles and pistols are allowed. Thats right, read it before you spew it. "

Not sure I understand wrote on Nov 27, 2007 11:55 AM:

" You don't want people to hunt animals for food? Even though you are ok wtih raising animals in a small pen so you can eat your pork chops and steaks? I love to hunt and its my RIGHT to do so. Look around you its more sporting then dumping corn on the ground for a pig for 8 months just to slaughter it so you can eat.........you people are spoiled "

great idea wrote on Nov 27, 2007 11:52 AM:

" You've all heard of big buck contests. Well I'm starting a smallest bambi contest. The smallest deer brought in wins the prize of a delicious dinner. Everyone please try to get the most baby deer possible. I want a 30 pounder. I know all my friends will be doing their part to eliminate fawns. Get 'em young and dumb. March my orange army march! "

Not sure I understand wrote on Nov 27, 2007 10:53 AM:

Me wrote on Nov 27, 2007 9:17 AM:

" To Not a sport: If you have watched ESPN lately you will find the World Series Of Poker, The National Spelling Bee and National Cheerleader Finals. Now tell me that these are "sports"!! I invite you to come deer hunting with me and find out how "easy" it is. You better be in shape though if you want to keep up with these "fat guys" in the woods. "

What is wrote on Nov 27, 2007 7:58 AM:

" a double reverse layup? "

TO:ALL YOU LAZY HUNTERS wrote on Nov 27, 2007 3:11 AM:

" IT'S MY RIGHT AND PRIVILEGE TO HUNT IN A RESPONSIBLE WAY. IT'S FINE IF YOU DON'T LIKE IT , THAT'S YOUR OPINION. NOT ALL HUNTERS ARE OBESE AND LAZY, AND BY THE WAY I LOVE ALL ANIMALS. THEY TASTE GREAT. MMMMMM!!! "

To LOL AGAIN... wrote on Nov 26, 2007 9:58 PM:

" So you think that Bears could be indigenous to states AROUND IL but IL itself? The American Black bear is native to almost all lower 48 states and parts of Cananda and Mexico. Illinois happens to be one of the States that it IS native to. Again, reading is a GOOD thing. "

Frank Buck wrote on Nov 26, 2007 8:38 PM:

" Linda, you need to understand that deer season is not for hunters. It's for the deer. These men are great humanitarians who love them so much, they will spare no expense to save them from an even worse fate. Starvation, road accidents, diseases and God knows what else. If the deer only knew what friends they were, when the first arrow slammed in, they would simply look over and say, Thank You, may I have another? The compassion exhibited by these gentlemen warms the cockles of my heart. "

To: Let's be real wrote on Nov 26, 2007 7:57 PM:

" Are you really a hunter, or just pretending to be one? Either you're bagging some pretty small deer, or you haven't checked the price of meat at the supermarket lately. Or maybe you buy the overpriced gear at Cabelas or Bass Pro Shops. "

Not a Sport wrote on Nov 26, 2007 7:32 PM:

" There was a time when hunting was a necessity and a sport. Men with crude weapons had to go out and outwit an animal and come back with something so the village could survive. Hunters were highly prized, not unlike we marvel at a double reverse layup by a Michael Jordan. What sport is it today, when a fat guy shuffles through the woods with a high powered rifle, with a high powered scope, maybe sits down and waits for something to come across his scope's line of vision. What chance does the animal have? Sport is only when the other entity (like the hunted in this case) has a chance, when there is competition. Now if you go in the north woods full of wolves with only a bow and arrow, and stalk game until you are close enough to it, then, maybe you are a sportsman. "

Dear Linda wrote on Nov 26, 2007 6:49 PM:

" In the hunter's defense, he probably didn't realize how small the deer was until he shot it. It's very difficult to accurately judge the size of a deer with no other deer around to reference. Many times, when someone shoots a fawn, they think it is just a lone doe. When fawns are alone, it is usually because they were seperated from the mother while she was in heat and being forcibly ram-rodded by a big buck. "

Round and Round wrote on Nov 26, 2007 5:38 PM:

" I have come to the conclusion that those who post comments defiling hunters or their right in this free country to hunt do so just to get a rise out of the just hunter. What fun would it be for them to make such comments if they did not get any comments back from the hunter? None of course! So I say to you hunters, disregard the ignorance of those that want to negate the freedom of this country and keep doing the wonderful things that promote the natural habitat of this planet. I praise you for preserving nature so that my children and my grandchildren can enjoy the planet as I have. Thank you, FREE American hunters, I appreciate what you stand for and all that you do! "

We Need More Hunters wrote on Nov 26, 2007 5:13 PM:

" DNR Managers are warning that the annual drop in hunters is results in more and more deer each year in the woods (especially up north in Wisconsin). The trend is making it more and more likely that more and more deer will starve to death during the winter. If you took away all hunting for deer, many deer would starve to death. God calls us to manage the world's resources and animal life. I think licensed hunting is one way to do that. If you take that away we need to figure out a way to prudently harvest deer. BTW-donate the meat to food pantries if you get a deer. The poor are happy to have the meat. "

Non-Hillbilly Redneck wrote on Nov 26, 2007 4:01 PM:

" I have some hillbilly rednecks next door that I would love to shoot arrows at just like they do to targets and baby deer in our area! Rock on Linda! You can come eat salad with me anyday! "

Female, Avis Deer Hunter wrote on Nov 26, 2007 3:55 PM:

" Linda, I enjoy the sport of deer hunting. By the way I don't enjoy it because it makes me feel like a "big man". You are a typical air headed bimbo! Go shopping and chill out. "

BrettinBloomington wrote on Nov 26, 2007 3:43 PM:

" To you uncouth thugs! and others.I do have 2 small children at home, and the only thing it changed was me waiting until they are old enough to teach them to be outdoorsman as well. And to Linda and others bleeding hearts.... If you think killing a young deer is worse than an adult, you are wrong. I, as well as others have seen this first hand.You shoot and kill an adult doe and then the truly sad thing happens,.. a fawn deer(baby)that you did not see walks up and wonders why its mother won't follow.So, as far as most of you are concerned, do not make a difference between the ethics of shooting young deer compared to adults.You obviously have no idea. "

To: To 'Offended' wrote on Nov 26, 2007 3:23 PM:

" Right after you post your list tough guy... "

LOL wrote on Nov 26, 2007 3:05 PM:

" To LOL wrote on Nov 26, 2007 1:28 PM:In Illinois LOL "

Hey Linda wrote on Nov 26, 2007 2:58 PM:

" If deer were an ugly animal, it sounds as though you'd have no problem with killing it. Do you think the beef you eat, they wait for the animal to die of old age? And talk about the killing of "baby" deer, did you ever consider what the eggs you eat for breakfast are? Deer hunters hunt for meat, you just have someone else to do the dirty work for you. Whether it's venison, poultry, pork or even vegetables, something must die for you to eat it. Insecticides kill insects before they can eat the vegetables. I'll bet you don't care about that, because insects aren't pretty. Think about this the next time you're about to sit down and have a couple of eggs and bacon. At least the deer have a chance, they are not cooped up in a pen, fed until fat, then slaughtered. Time to move beyond your Pollyanna world. "

Road Kill wrote on Nov 26, 2007 2:57 PM:

" 4 all u non hunters go hug a tree & watch em die! "

Let's be real wrote on Nov 26, 2007 2:53 PM:

" As far as the comments about people hunting for the meat; that might be a side benefit, but it is certainly not the primary motivation for ANY hunter. Hunting is for the sport of it. The "thrill" of the hunt. Don't get me wrong, I do not have a problem with this. If people get enjoyment from their hunting experience that's great. I am NOT an anti-hunter. I just think it is ridiculous to think that someone would buy a gun, ammunition, tree stand, and all of the other hunting gear, pay for the meat to be processed, and all the other myriad expenses asscoiated with hunting, and then claim it's to put food on the table. It certainly may put food on the table, but it certainly can't be claimed it's an economical way to do it. Why not just argue that you enjoy the thrill of the hunt, admit that we still live in a very barbaric world, and embrace it! I do. "

support PETA wrote on Nov 26, 2007 2:23 PM:

" People Eating Tasty Animals "

you uncouth thugs! wrote on Nov 26, 2007 2:17 PM:

" who eats baby deer and says they taste good?!! Lock him up with a human baby and I wonder what would happen in a few months..... "

To 'Offended' wrote on Nov 26, 2007 2:13 PM:

" Give me a list of things you did this Thanksgiving for homeless people and be sure to put your name down so we can check it out. This is my view and you'd be wasting your time trying to make your point - killing, maiming, hurting defenseless animals makes you savage. BTW, the last time I checked plants didn't have feelings. Thinning the deer population so you all can keep producing more like you seems like a GREAT idea! "

Redneck Hunter (AKA Orion) wrote on Nov 26, 2007 1:56 PM:

" That the Pantagraph would allow such supercilious and bilious persiflage on its opinion page doesn't surprise me. The sesquipedalian prattle of the anti-hunting crowd is such a waste of breath. Anyone who feels he/she has no blood on his/her hands or is somehow cleansed of the system because they buy their meat from a grocery store, ought to look further into when, how and where this meat is processed. Your argument is vacant, hypocritical and visceral. "

oh DEAR! wrote on Nov 26, 2007 1:55 PM:

" I applaud you for writing about this topic. It is not a necessity to kill deer, there are an abundance of deer because we are stripping farm land to build houses, highways, banks, resturants. We are taking the deer's and other animals homes away from them and putting them in harms way deliberately. From what I have read about baby dear, they are more likely to unhealthy and have a tendency to carry more diseases then there parents. If you are serious about feeding those who need it, then round them up, and ship them to countries where children are starving. "

BrettinBloomington wrote on Nov 26, 2007 1:36 PM:

" To the posters who say we should stop hunting and bring back predators. Once again, learn before you speak. Out in the western states, settlers and ranchers killed off most of the wolves. Things became out of check and balance. We protected the wolves from hunters, and once again the are becoming a problem to humans.They are now proposing to re-issue hunting permits for the grey wolf. My point is, humans do have a place in nature as a predator, as well as a place as the top predator. Be careful how much you limit the balance. "

Bambi tastes so good wrote on Nov 26, 2007 1:32 PM:

" Baby deer meat is so tender, it melts in your mouth. Those of you that like veal would love it. By the way, have you ever been to Wisconsin and seen how veal is raised? "

BrettinBloomington wrote on Nov 26, 2007 1:29 PM:

" Just like the story about the puppy last week,I see gibberish from all fronts. I hunt and will continue to do so. I am very conscentious about my actions. I say a hunters prayer before the hunt, and if i am graced with a deer, then i give a thank you prayer as well. It has nothing to do with your beliefs,only mine. Just as my choice to hunt. I do not write letters bashing others beliefs, because I try to live the golden rule. it would be nice if peoples letters and post would do the same. I am not a vegan,but I won't bash you for being one either. Same feeling on your sexuality, Hey it's your choice. I would just like to see people honestly educate themselves before posting or spewing nonsense. "

To LOL wrote on Nov 26, 2007 1:28 PM:

" Apparently, you didn't "get" what I was saying. Bears didn't starve you dolt. They were HUNTED to the brink of extinction. Good job reading. "

mmmmm wrote on Nov 26, 2007 1:24 PM:

" the younger the deer the better the meat. Nothing better than baby deer. "

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