Letters to the editor 1-9

More individuals, groups need to take a stand

It was so very good to see the Nevada Commission on Tourism's decision not to accept Gov. Jim Gibbons' recommended choice for its new director. One person cannot attempt to place a certain individual into a governmental body, just because he thinks he might be good for the job. That decision, by law, is up to the group of individuals specifically chosen to do so. I'm very proud of Lt. Gov. Brian Krolicki and the Commission on Tourism for abiding by the rules and not letting the governor try to override their decision.

We need more individuals and organizations to take a stand. For instance, Director Lesparance's (Department of Agriculture) recent decision to make it a crime to water our wild horses. There's nothing in the Nevada statutes saying it is illegal to water the horses. The NDA just said it was a crime to do so and no one has come forth to fight his incorrect statement. Again, one person simply cannot make up a new rule just because he thinks he has the power to get away with it. Well, then, I guess the people of Nevada will have to take a stand on this issue, too.

BONNIE MATTON

Dayton

State retiree benefits should not be reduced

In an article in the Nevada Appeal on Dec. 19 titled "State panel suggests benefit cuts," recommendations were made by the Spending and Government Efficiency Commission on proposed cuts to health benefit subsidies, applicable to all state of Nevada employees and retirees.

The suggested cuts, according to the article, would eliminate health-care subsidies for employees who retire after July 1 and cut subsidies to existing retirees by 50 percent over the next two years. This means that the employee and existing retirees would be required to pay a significant monthly increase to continue their health insurance benefits. Dependents monthly fees would also significantly increase. Many state employees and retirees will not be able to afford it.

These recommendations are appalling and are an unjust form of "tax." These suggested increases should not be applicable to retirees, who based their dedication and hard work at the state for many years only to have their benefits taken away from them. Additional "taxes" should be fairly imposed across the state to assist in the budget crisis. For example, the brothels should pay taxes.

Also, recommendations include ending subsidies for all retirees once they're eligible for Medicare. For most state employees, they will never be eligible for Medicare because their state job did not pay into Social Security. Bruce James, SAGE Commission chairman, and the governor should educate themselves before making recommendations to the people of Nevada, the legislators and pertinent individuals.

I worked diligently for many years for the state. During those years I took pride doing a very good job while working for comparably lower wages as an engineer relative to the private sector. However, I felt that the state benefits provided by existing legislation were an acceptable compromise.

Now that I am retired, I think it is unjust to suggest taking away benefits earned, pursuant to legislation, for so many years and I, like so many retired state employees, don't qualify for Medicare benefits. The SAGE Commission and governor should be ashamed for suggesting to cut retirees' benefits. It's just another form of "tax."

Please write to or inform your legislators, senators (www.leg.state.nv.us) and others. I will.

ROBERT CARLSON

Gardnerville

Outgoing mayor did

the right thing for pig

I hope this will bring to light the regulations that pot-bellied pigs can and should be allowed in the city.

There are many cities here and across the country that have changed their laws to allow this. The pigs are treated just like dogs and cats, and they must be spayed/neutered and licensed.

The outgoing mayor did the right thing, I just wish more politicians had a heart and did the right thing.

NANCY CRUSAN

Inverness, Fla.

Arnold the pet pig

is one blessed animal

A pet is a pet. Whether it be a dog, cat, rat, mouse, hamster, bird, rabbit, lizard, snake, spider, fish, guinea pig or a house pig. When you name an animal, take care of it, nurture it, love it, it is your pet.

Love is love, and real love sees no fault. I have had several different types of pets in my life. I named them, loved them and cared for them. When they died, I cried and missed them. I'm glad "Arnold" gets to go "home" to be with the "family" that "loves" and "cares" for him. He is one blessed "pet" pig.

LORI WETZEL

Carson City