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Name cable barrier after Nicole Snyder
Editor:
As the cable barrier between the north and southbound lanes of Highway 395 inches ever so close to completion, I can't help but reflect on my letter to the editor shortly after the loss of Nicole Snyder. Her tragic death due to a crossover accident only a few miles from home, triggered something in my soul, as I felt her parent's pain. This was the second crossover accident that caused loss of life on this dangerous stretch of highway, made even more dangerous by the Nevada Department of Transportation's lack of concern for a problem so simple to fix, or so it seemed to me.
My letter to the editor of this paper, as well as e-mails to the state directly, appeared to go unanswered. But then I started to see some changes. Slow to come, but changes none the less. It took another loss of life at the intersection of Highway 395 and Stephanie, this time due to the combination of a lack of a traffic light and impatience. The state responded to the cries of those close to the victim, and a light was finally placed at this dangerous intersection. Shortly thereafter, comparatively at least, work began on the median cable barrier.
At this writing, the barrier work has reached the location of Nicole Snyder's accident. I think of her often as I pass this location, noticing the makeshift memorial placed by friends and family who refuse to forget her. Although I didn't know her, I can't help but feel that I did. She was one of our own ... one of my own. So, I call on this county's decision makers once again. Help her friends and family remember her officially by placing a sign in the median along side the section of the barrier that would have saved her life. Might I suggest "The Nicole Snyder Memorial Barrier"?
Thank you, Nicole. Rest in peace.
Jim DeZerga
Gardnerville
Gardnerville has great display
Editor:
I think Gardnerville should be congratulated on their colorful Christmas street decorations this year. It looks nice to say the least. The addition of some color (red) to the light display is most welcome. When heading northbound you sure can tell where the boundary line is located.
Howard Althouse
Gardnerville
A note from Iraq
Editor:
A mother's note: Each year since our children were old enough to hold a crayon, they have taken part in the annual Evans family Christmas letter. Even a tour in Iraq doesn't terminated their mandatory participation. Here is what our oldest son, Sgt. Henry Evans, wrote this year.
Dear family and friends,
First let me say Merry Christmas to all. Second, I hope that this letter finds you all in good spirits and even better health. What an interesting year it is turning out to be. In late October, as I'm sure most of you already know, I deployed to Iraq for tour number two. Although it pains me to leave for another holiday season (or two), I'm truly grateful for the opportunity to lead men into and, God willing, safely out of combat.
I am sure that between our sorely misguided politicians in Washington and the equally misguided media representatives, a rather bleak picture has been painted of the war in Iraq and the soldiers fighting in this war. Rest assured that America's finest have the intestinal fortitude to see this through until the end. There are still those out there who believe that words like honor, duty and courage are indeed more than just words. I would also remind you to take a moment this year to remember those who were willing to answer the call and paid the ultimate sacrifice. Remember too, those who fight on, thousands of miles from home, family and friends. Reflect upon the true meaning of Christmas. To some a merry Christmas would be merely a hot shower and a warm meal not a stack of presents under a tree. Pray for the Wobbler family who's son, Staff Sgt. Wobbler, was killed almost two years ago while fighting for freedom that those who have not spilled their blood for, do not truly understand or appreciate. Giving, not receiving, it is the true meaning of Christmas. Remember this.
Strength and honor - Henry
Submitted by:
Leslie Evans
Minden
Teachers are
district's backbone
Editor:
I have a number of friends who are teachers in Douglas County School District and was aware that salary negotiations were not going well. I was shocked to hear that the administrators were asking for a 9-15 percent increase over the next two years. It is my understanding that this is more than twice what the teachers were offered. And they negotiated among themselves. Sounds like congress to me.
My three children went to Douglas County schools and are successful adults because of the teachers who taught them, not the administrators. It is the teachers who are the backbone of this district and it is the teachers who deserve the largest raise.
Patrick Glenn
Gardnerville
Break with past negotiations
Editor:
We have been teachers in Douglas County for more than 20 years. During that time we have both served on negotiation teams representing teachers of Douglas County School District. It has been the accepted procedure and practice that negotiations with certified and classified employees are finalized prior to those in the administration. The administrative contract includes "Me too" language which ensures that the teachers and administrators receive the same raise and benefits.
This year however, administrators have chosen not to wait and have negotiated with themselves a compensation package that includes a 10-11 percent increase for some at the district office, a 5 percent increase this year and a 4 percent next for the rest, more vacation time, creation of a sick bank, and increased flexibility in their work schedule. We find this to be poorly timed and divisive since the district did not offer the rest of its employees the same rates of increased compensation.
Since the board has wisely chosen to postpone a decision in this matter until January, we believe that this provides a golden opportunity for the negotiation teams, from the district and the employees, to sit down at the bargaining table and reach compromises that are fair and equitable to all concerned.
Not only would a successful agreement avoid mandatory arbitration, which neither side wants, but would provide a wonderful Christmas present to all Douglas County School employees. Now is the time for all sides to take the necessary actions that will help us remain "Together in Education."
Mike Jessup
Meredith Swanson-Jessup
Minden
Why waste water on fish pond?
Editor:
In regards to the proposal by the Gardnerville Ranchos district for a fish pond, it seems they are a bit hypocritical with their water conservation policy.
They freely write water violations and fine homeowners when a few buckets of water end up on the sidewalk. They impose water meters when too many violations have been issued forcing homeowners to install water meters on their property. And adding insult to injury, they then charge for water usage and still charge fines for a few buckets of water on the sidewalk even after that water was purchased by the property owner.
I suppose all those fines will go to pay for the new pond and also the well to supply water to the pond at the expense of the Rancho homeowner's. Furthermore, the water loss due to evaporation from the pond will make the minimal water loss cited in those water violations seem like a drop in the proverbial bucket.
Gary Godde
Gardnerville
Park Cattle plan could alter town
Editor:
I attended the Park Ranch meeting Wednesday, concerning their desire to develop some 4,500 acres surrounding Minden, but left a bit early (about 8:45), as I couldn't stomach any more. Pretty maps, lacking compass bearings, scales and validity dates; frequent mentions that they were possibilities only; no mention of who was going to pay for what. Are they hoping the county will part with another $24 million.
Lots of smooth words, but absolutely no commitments (except that "we shall consider that") and very little hard data: frequent statements that "we haven't got to that yet," or "that comes later in the process" (especially about difficult matters, such as zoning densities, water consumption, who's going to pay for what, etc., etc.). When queried about their attitude to the ballot to confirm the building permit allocation system, their considered response was "we haven't decided what attitude to take yet" - but their automatic first response was to point out that it is an advisory ballot only, so obviously it's received their attention. They'd be idiots if it hadn't, and whatever they may be, they aren't idiots by a country mile.
Having fought for some years to get the voter approved SGI initiative more or less accepted, despite the county's opposition (opposition the county made us finance, even though we'd supported the initiative), it now looks as though we may have another struggle on our hands. Is Park going to try somehow to cram through approval of their plans before the 2008 election for commissioners?
D. H. E. Dicconson
Gardnerville
Keep services
in the state
Editor
As a small business owner I get very angry each time I receive a notice from the Nevada Department of Taxation with a return address in Phoenix, Ariz.
With our economy down in the state why is the State of Nevada spending money for services in Arizona? Isn't anyone capable of doing that type of work in Nevada? Isn't it time we used resources in Nevada instead of making another state's economy strong?
Bob Chambers
Gardnerville
Editor:
As the cable barrier between the north and southbound lanes of Highway 395 inches ever so close to completion, I can't help but reflect on my letter to the editor shortly after the loss of Nicole Snyder. Her tragic death due to a crossover accident only a few miles from home, triggered something in my soul, as I felt her parent's pain. This was the second crossover accident that caused loss of life on this dangerous stretch of highway, made even more dangerous by the Nevada Department of Transportation's lack of concern for a problem so simple to fix, or so it seemed to me.
My letter to the editor of this paper, as well as e-mails to the state directly, appeared to go unanswered. But then I started to see some changes. Slow to come, but changes none the less. It took another loss of life at the intersection of Highway 395 and Stephanie, this time due to the combination of a lack of a traffic light and impatience. The state responded to the cries of those close to the victim, and a light was finally placed at this dangerous intersection. Shortly thereafter, comparatively at least, work began on the median cable barrier.
At this writing, the barrier work has reached the location of Nicole Snyder's accident. I think of her often as I pass this location, noticing the makeshift memorial placed by friends and family who refuse to forget her. Although I didn't know her, I can't help but feel that I did. She was one of our own ... one of my own. So, I call on this county's decision makers once again. Help her friends and family remember her officially by placing a sign in the median along side the section of the barrier that would have saved her life. Might I suggest "The Nicole Snyder Memorial Barrier"?
Thank you, Nicole. Rest in peace.
Jim DeZerga
Gardnerville
Gardnerville has great display
Editor:
I think Gardnerville should be congratulated on their colorful Christmas street decorations this year. It looks nice to say the least. The addition of some color (red) to the light display is most welcome. When heading northbound you sure can tell where the boundary line is located.
Howard Althouse
Gardnerville
A note from Iraq
Editor:
A mother's note: Each year since our children were old enough to hold a crayon, they have taken part in the annual Evans family Christmas letter. Even a tour in Iraq doesn't terminated their mandatory participation. Here is what our oldest son, Sgt. Henry Evans, wrote this year.
Dear family and friends,
First let me say Merry Christmas to all. Second, I hope that this letter finds you all in good spirits and even better health. What an interesting year it is turning out to be. In late October, as I'm sure most of you already know, I deployed to Iraq for tour number two. Although it pains me to leave for another holiday season (or two), I'm truly grateful for the opportunity to lead men into and, God willing, safely out of combat.
I am sure that between our sorely misguided politicians in Washington and the equally misguided media representatives, a rather bleak picture has been painted of the war in Iraq and the soldiers fighting in this war. Rest assured that America's finest have the intestinal fortitude to see this through until the end. There are still those out there who believe that words like honor, duty and courage are indeed more than just words. I would also remind you to take a moment this year to remember those who were willing to answer the call and paid the ultimate sacrifice. Remember too, those who fight on, thousands of miles from home, family and friends. Reflect upon the true meaning of Christmas. To some a merry Christmas would be merely a hot shower and a warm meal not a stack of presents under a tree. Pray for the Wobbler family who's son, Staff Sgt. Wobbler, was killed almost two years ago while fighting for freedom that those who have not spilled their blood for, do not truly understand or appreciate. Giving, not receiving, it is the true meaning of Christmas. Remember this.
Strength and honor - Henry
Submitted by:
Leslie Evans
Minden
Teachers are
district's backbone
Editor:
I have a number of friends who are teachers in Douglas County School District and was aware that salary negotiations were not going well. I was shocked to hear that the administrators were asking for a 9-15 percent increase over the next two years. It is my understanding that this is more than twice what the teachers were offered. And they negotiated among themselves. Sounds like congress to me.
My three children went to Douglas County schools and are successful adults because of the teachers who taught them, not the administrators. It is the teachers who are the backbone of this district and it is the teachers who deserve the largest raise.
Patrick Glenn
Gardnerville
Break with past negotiations
Editor:
We have been teachers in Douglas County for more than 20 years. During that time we have both served on negotiation teams representing teachers of Douglas County School District. It has been the accepted procedure and practice that negotiations with certified and classified employees are finalized prior to those in the administration. The administrative contract includes "Me too" language which ensures that the teachers and administrators receive the same raise and benefits.
This year however, administrators have chosen not to wait and have negotiated with themselves a compensation package that includes a 10-11 percent increase for some at the district office, a 5 percent increase this year and a 4 percent next for the rest, more vacation time, creation of a sick bank, and increased flexibility in their work schedule. We find this to be poorly timed and divisive since the district did not offer the rest of its employees the same rates of increased compensation.
Since the board has wisely chosen to postpone a decision in this matter until January, we believe that this provides a golden opportunity for the negotiation teams, from the district and the employees, to sit down at the bargaining table and reach compromises that are fair and equitable to all concerned.
Not only would a successful agreement avoid mandatory arbitration, which neither side wants, but would provide a wonderful Christmas present to all Douglas County School employees. Now is the time for all sides to take the necessary actions that will help us remain "Together in Education."
Mike Jessup
Meredith Swanson-Jessup
Minden
Why waste water on fish pond?
Editor:
In regards to the proposal by the Gardnerville Ranchos district for a fish pond, it seems they are a bit hypocritical with their water conservation policy.
They freely write water violations and fine homeowners when a few buckets of water end up on the sidewalk. They impose water meters when too many violations have been issued forcing homeowners to install water meters on their property. And adding insult to injury, they then charge for water usage and still charge fines for a few buckets of water on the sidewalk even after that water was purchased by the property owner.
I suppose all those fines will go to pay for the new pond and also the well to supply water to the pond at the expense of the Rancho homeowner's. Furthermore, the water loss due to evaporation from the pond will make the minimal water loss cited in those water violations seem like a drop in the proverbial bucket.
Gary Godde
Gardnerville
Park Cattle plan could alter town
Editor:
I attended the Park Ranch meeting Wednesday, concerning their desire to develop some 4,500 acres surrounding Minden, but left a bit early (about 8:45), as I couldn't stomach any more. Pretty maps, lacking compass bearings, scales and validity dates; frequent mentions that they were possibilities only; no mention of who was going to pay for what. Are they hoping the county will part with another $24 million.
Lots of smooth words, but absolutely no commitments (except that "we shall consider that") and very little hard data: frequent statements that "we haven't got to that yet," or "that comes later in the process" (especially about difficult matters, such as zoning densities, water consumption, who's going to pay for what, etc., etc.). When queried about their attitude to the ballot to confirm the building permit allocation system, their considered response was "we haven't decided what attitude to take yet" - but their automatic first response was to point out that it is an advisory ballot only, so obviously it's received their attention. They'd be idiots if it hadn't, and whatever they may be, they aren't idiots by a country mile.
Having fought for some years to get the voter approved SGI initiative more or less accepted, despite the county's opposition (opposition the county made us finance, even though we'd supported the initiative), it now looks as though we may have another struggle on our hands. Is Park going to try somehow to cram through approval of their plans before the 2008 election for commissioners?
D. H. E. Dicconson
Gardnerville
Keep services
in the state
Editor
As a small business owner I get very angry each time I receive a notice from the Nevada Department of Taxation with a return address in Phoenix, Ariz.
With our economy down in the state why is the State of Nevada spending money for services in Arizona? Isn't anyone capable of doing that type of work in Nevada? Isn't it time we used resources in Nevada instead of making another state's economy strong?
Bob Chambers
Gardnerville
