Take a look at Chick Wilder’s monument near the concession stand at Willard Beach. It says, “He taught generations of children to be good swimmers. He later taught them to be good parents and good neighbors. He made Willard Beach a place for recreation and community. His rules forbade bullying, meanness, and vandalism … he cared for the vulnerable … leave your dogs at home, keep off the rocks, be safe and have fun.” 

 Today the vulnerable are not safe on Willard Beach. Yesterday (Feb. 21) a large mongrel-dog came at full gallop to within a couple feet of my three little grandchildren, the youngest granddaughter being less than 2 years old. He then went growling after a nearby dog. His owner was not in sight. A young man came into view but didn’t respond to my inquiry about his ownership of the dog. When I persisted, he finally indicated ownership and released a very animated, highly profane tirade. It’s obvious to me this man doesn’t care about the vulnerable.He doesn’t care about the law requiring a leash or voice control. He has no respect for women and children.

A large multi-colored collie chased off the small gaggle of geese that come from local islands. No sandpiper or gull could relax and enjoy the sea with more than 20 dogs in view.  We couldn’t relax and have fun either. 

 Our city council’s latest response to this problem is to allow dogs on the Beach after 7 p.m. during the summer. I often don’t get home from work before 7 p.m. 

Many people want to enjoy the beach on a beautiful, hot night. People coming in from the mooring area with punts, bags, and buckets will experience the common problem of dogs peeing on their things. 

On the first Saturday in May last year, we counted more than 600 people enjoying the beach with no problems. There were no dogs present. Chick was right – leave your dogs at home, be safe and have fun. 

If you absolutely insist on visiting the sea and sand with a dog, please put it on a leash so people and wildlife can relax and enjoy the rare sandy patch on this rockbound coast of Maine. 

Steven Gray

South Portland