November 14, 2008

Dear Concerned Residents,

There has been a lot of speculation and misinformation circulating about PAWS and I'd like to try to explain a complex situation. One thing everyone should know is that this was a completely amicable parting of the ways after the organization decided that they could not operate the sanctuary in the way that they wanted.

PAWS has been a Montclair institution for decades. Its volunteers have provided a great service to animals and residents. Included in their ranks are Councilor Kathryn Weller, my son, and his friends, who have volunteered at the organization and had wonderful experiences helping serve our community and its less fortunate animals. People who volunteer at PAWS do so because it offers a great experience while filling an important need, that of creating a loving environment for animals who are as yet unadopted.