Assembly names three to Wall of Distinction

The Assembly paused Wednesday to honor two former Assemblymen and one former staff member for their distinguished service to the Legislature " including John Marvel, who represented Battle Mountain for 30 years.

The three will join six others whose portraits are on the wall in the Assembly wing of the Legislature.

Marvel was described as "a rancher's rancher and a legislator's legislator" by fellow Republican John Carpenter of Elko.

He served from 1979 to 2007, through 15 regular and 11 special sessions.

Debbie Smith, D-Sparks, who was born in Battle Mountain, said Marvel was "the consummate gentleman, teacher and mentor."

Ways and Means Chairman Morse Arberry, D-Las Vegas, told Marvel that after a dozen sessions together on that committee, "I miss you every day."

"He never was partisan," said Speaker Barbara Buckley, D-Las Vegas. "He always looked out for the interests of the state."

Also honored was William Swackhamer, who preceded Marvel as the representative for Battle Mountain. A Democrat, he served from 1946-1972, including as speaker in two sessions and majority leader in one other " a total of 14 regular and seven special sessions.

Swackhamer followed that with a decade as secretary of state. He died July 10, 2008 at age 93.

Members praised his intelligence, candor and resolution as well as his sense of humor. Swackhamer was credited with developing Nevada's gaming tax for schools among other major changes as the state matured and grew.

Finally, the Assembly honored Kimberly Ann Morgan, who retired two sessions ago after a long career in the legal division, where she rose to the number two spot as deputy legislative counsel.

Morgan's patience in teaching legislators the ropes and her wisdom in dealing with the process were praised by a number of lawmakers who said they relied on her heavily.

"Thank you for making all the stupid bills I had look good," said Carpenter.

But Assemblyman Joe Hardy, R-Boulder City, said there were limits to her patience. He said after repeated requests for help in the 2003 session, he received an e-mail from Morgan saying, "You're allowed three miracles. You've used two."

Marvel, along with numerous family members, and Morgan accompanied by her mother were on the floor to receive their honors.

They will join former longtime Chief Clerk Mouryne Landing Dini, eight-time Speaker Joe Dini, Gardnerville Republican Lou Bergevin, Fallon Republican Virgil Getto, former Ways and Means Chairman, Democrat Marvin Sedway and Reno Democrat Jan Evans on the Wall of Distinction.

- Contact reporter Geoff Dornan at gdornan@nevadaappeal.com or 687-8750.