Don't allow city boxing club to fade into history

In this age of generic restaurants, stores and main streets, a community must hold tightly to those things that make it unique in the world.

That is one reason it is so distressing to see something so uniquely Carson City - Bruno's Boxing Club - become a footnote in this city's history. It's equally distressing to learn why: purely bureaucracy.

The State Buildings and Grounds Department unceremoniously evicted Victor Bruno, the coach of the program since 1994, and his equipment from the Stewart Gym this week, saying he hadn't met insurance deadlines.

The department probably followed the rules, but it didn't do what was right for Carson City. State government and its buildings are a part of this community in that this is where they are located. But to really be a part requires closing the regulations book and doing what's best for the community.

That didn't happen with the boxing program. With all of state government's resources and buildings,

it is difficult to believe there was no possibility of a compromise or alternate plan that would have preserved the program.

It is important not only because it was unique and historic, but because it was a free and constructive outlet for teenage aggression that so often leads to gangs, drugs and other crime.

It also proved to be one of the few venues locally that brought together youth from all ethnic backgrounds, and as such served as a fantastic example of what needs to happen to bridge a growing racial divide.

Justice of the Peace Robey Willis put it succinctly: "It's a crying shame that whoever is in charge is taking this attitude, when boxing has done so much for so many kids. ... When so many kids are using meth or joining gangs, and somebody is trying to help kids, it's pretty narrow-minded to shut that down."

We're hopeful, with all the community-minded people in Carson City, that a solution can be found to keep the boxing program going.