DATE: Tuesday, June 10, 1997                TAG: 9706100009

SECTION: LOCAL                   PAGE: B10  EDITION: FINAL 

TYPE: Letter 

                                            LENGTH:  106 lines

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR -THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT

LITTLE RASCALS

Children's future

our top priority

On May 23, on the steps of the Chowan Courthouse, Assistant District Attorney Nancy Lamb reluctantly announced the termination of the Little Rascals Day Care case. After eight emotional years, it was decided that it was in the best interest of the children and their families to close this door and open a new door without the shadow of Bob Kelly.

We stand by the verdict of Bob Kelly's conviction (12 consecutive life sentences), understanding that the North Carolina Court of Appeals overturned his conviction solely on parliamentary error in the case and not the evidence as it was presented.

Twelve children bravely spoke to tell a true nightmare, and after nine months of proceedings and weeks of deliberation, the jury voted Mr. Kelly guilty of the crimes he was accused of by signing 99 verdict sheets. Yes, the jury found Robert Fulton Kelly guilty.

The choice to no longer pursue criminal charges against Mr. Kelly was a difficult one. Our children are now well on their way toward recovery. Many remain in therapy and many are still haunted by nightmares. The welfare of our children remains paramount.

Erase, if you can, the megamedia intrusion upon this case and walk around, for a minute, in our shoes. We have never been the crazed ``witch-hunters'' that we have been portrayed as being. We are simply loving parents who have been trying to right the injustices forced upon our children.

Lisa H. Baker (parent)

Edenton, N.C., June 3, 1997

NORFOLK

Yacht club's project

merits city aid

I would like to comment on Peter Decker's acquisition of the Lafayette Yacht Club on Granby Street (news, May 31).

My father was a member of the club, and we spent many happy and memorable days there.

I think it's terrific Mr. Decker wants to do something constructive and creative with this once vital area. Why doesn't the city pitch in and help out? Begin by renovating that strip on Granby Street.

If the city can give $300,000 to Hooters, why can't it assist a citizen who endeavors to beautify a blighted area? Mr. Decker has contributed much to the betterment of Norfolk.

Cynthia Carrico Doherty

Norfolk, May 31, 1997

ANIMALS

Hybrid pet not

``big, bad wolf''

I wish to thank Linda McNatt for her May 7, article, ``Suffolk animal hospital looking for someone to take wolf hybrid.'' It was the first unbiased piece I've seen on hybrids.

I do not agree with Dan Keller's May 21 letter, ``Wolf hybrid not a pet.''

I have a lovely 2 1/2-year-old hybrid that plays with my four cats and loves children.

People who wish to own hybrids should be aware they are not dogs. They are shy animals that would rather flee than fight. They need intensive socialization and must be a member of the family. Unpredictability vanishes when their wolf traits are understood and they are not crossbred with ``aggressive'' dogs. Also, you cannot keep them penned and isolated.

Mr. Keller's comment that ``hybrids cannot be effectively inoculated against rabies'' is pure fallacy. Genetically, hybrids are almost identical to dogs. It is ``the big, bad wolf'' laws of this state that are in error. Call any zoo - their wolves are vaccinated!

Ann Ramsey

Chesapeake, May 22, 1997

STUDENTS

Debutante coverage

a source of pride

I read your May 24 Daily Break ``A debutante's big night'' with a great deal of pride. The coverage of Joi Chisholm was indeed beautiful and typifies the grace, charm and excitement representative of all young ladies who have had the experience of being a Eureka debutante.

In light of all the other negative things that are happening throughout Hampton Roads, this was a most-refreshing article. It portrayed a very positive image for the community and for those young ladies who have the dream and desire to walk in the footsteps of Joi Chisholm. Incidentally, Joi is as beautiful on the inside as she is in person.

Warren S. Harris

Eureka Club Cotillion chairman

Portsmouth, June 2, 1997

VIRGINIA BEACH

City not rolling

on skateboard park

I was happy to see your May 30 editorial in support of an Oceanfront skateboarding area, especially your suggestion that the 31st Street site be considered. But I am skeptical that a skateboard park will be built there, or anywhere.

Councilman Linwood Branch III was quoted as saying that the city Parks and Recreation Department was ``evaluating open space.'' Maybe not by that department, but this ``evaluation of open space'' has been going on at least since December of last year.

How long does this take? The resort-area parking restrictions were planned, announced and voted on in less than a month or two, and the ban on skateboarding was publicly announced and voted on in less than a week. It's amazing how fast council can act when it's something it supports.

Steve Marshall

Virginia Beach, June 1, 1997

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