Letters to the editor Dec. 16

Kerry should pay

his fair share first

As a political junkie, I watch and listen to most programs when politicians are interviewed. On Dec. 6, I was watching a TV program on which Sen. John Kerry, D-Mass., was being interviewed concerning the payroll tax renewal the president is trying to get through Congress and having it paid for by raising taxes on the rich. Sen. Kerry said, which is repeating what most liberals have said, everyone should pay their fair share.

This is coming from a wealthy Massachusetts Senator who makes around $200,000 per year and has about a million-dollar Senate expense account and who, I believe, moored his newly purchased yacht in Rhode Island to avoid Massachusetts tax.

Let's face it, his opinion on fair share should be really respected.

John Devenish

Carson City

Keep in mind salaries when making a donation

I was sad to see an article in this morning's paper that the Salvation Army is way behind in their fundraising needs this year. Please keep these facts in mind.

The president of the Red Cross has an annual salary of just over $650,000 per year plus expenses. The United Way president receives $375,000 per year plus expenses and benefits. The UNICEF chief executive officer receives $1.2 million per year plus expenses and a Rolls Royce. Less than 5 cents of your donated dollar goes to the cause.

The Salvation Army's Commissioner, Todd Bassett, receives $13,000 per year plus housing for managing this $2 billion-a-year organization. Ninety-six percent of donated dollars go to the cause. Their crisis is taking care of people in our community every day.

The American Legion National Commander receives $0 dollars salary. Your donations go to help Veterans and their families and youths.

Who will you donate to?

Mike Enright

Carson City

Give teenagers a gift certificate for drivers ed

If you are having trouble thinking about what to give a teenager this holiday season, think about giving a gift certificate for a driver education course. This will bring joy and safety to a new driver.

New drivers face distractions every day on the road. Driver inattention is a factor in more than 1 million crashes in North America every year resulting in injury, death and an economic impact of more than $40 billion. Whether it's talking on a cell phone, changing the CD or dealing with a child, being distracted can have devastating consequences.

Help a new driver gain the skills he or she needs to become a safe driver by giving them the knowledge they need to make good choices and prevent accidents. It is with great sadness that we regularly hear of tragic car accidents involving our beloved and talented young people. Giving them a gift that will save lives is a good choice.

Western Nevada College offers gift certificates for both credit and non-credit classes. Giving an educational gift certificate provides students with skills that last a life time.

Judy Larquier

Carson City朠