Letter in Dec. 22's SI

I find it interesting that this is the second straight issue with a letter about the story.
http://vault.sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1149605/index.htm

 

I see the father is quoted, the mother isn't (unless I missed it). I'm assuming the kid's quote came from either a) the dad, who recounted it or b) some co-workers/co-campers who overheard it.

 

i don't live far enough out to have cougars and bear, yet i do. i can live with bear, but the first time i see a cougar and have time to get my gun, say good night to mr. cat.

and deer? the PNW is overrun by these pests. year round hunting up here would be a good thing.

 

Both the mom and the dad weigh in on this message board about the story:

http://www.mtechservices.ca/Kenton/index.php/topic,213.0.html


The mom says she never spoke to the writer.

If true, why did he put quote marks around the phone conversation and present it as though he did talk to her?

 

Like I said, maybe he's writing what fellow campers heard. I have no idea.

 

Yeah, that would make sense. Shouldn't he have said that somewhere, though?

I certainly read it like he talked to the mom.

 

i think these people would bitch no matter what was written.

 

Wolves very, very rarely kill humans, but that doesn't mean they won't think about it. I know a former RCMP who has told me all sorts of stories about wolves. Usually they're not interested in humans, but if they're stalking a mother with a baby in a stroller walking her dog on a populated street, it's pretty scary nonetheless. (EDIT: I should say stalking the dog which happens to be tethered to a human with a stroller.)

I have absolutely nothing against hunting, but increased hunting isn't going to guarantee anyone's safety in such a massive country with such a low population per rural square mile. There are so many wild animals up north that I cannot fathom a level of recreational hunting that would remove all elements of danger.

 

Taft was eaten by wolves.

 

That's what I was thinking afterward. At least say "he said in a phone conversation overheard by fellow campers" or something to that effect.

But yes, it reads like he asked the mom "what did he say when he called you?"

 

I took the quote as having been relayed by others at the camp site, but I guess it would have been best for everyone if he had said that. I find the father's comments interesting. While I understand what he's saying and I don't necessarily believe people/hunters "murder" animals, I definitely don't believe animals "murder" people.

 

I guess I was thinking more general, not specific. I'd smell a suit in some circumstances, but since Kenton is dead, you're right. This might not be one of those times.