Letters for September 6, 2001

Tim Block, your letter makes no sense from the start. First, if you don’t like the RN&R, don’t read it. You have your democratic right. I would like to commend the writers on their job. Keep up the good work.

Second, you ask about the charges against the skinheads. First, obstructing justice: the man they had to wrestle to the ground. Second, resisting arrest: Staying on the sidewalk would cover that. Officers give those orders for their health, not to harass the people they’re ordering. Third, jaywalking: It is an offense, and action was taken. How many times have you wished action against someone who strolls into the street with no consideration?

You call [the suspects] patriots who sometimes get violent. If they were patriots, they would uphold the laws, no matter how idiotic or anti-ideological they may be, even if it’s something as lowly as jaywalking. Be careful in how you choose your words, Mr. Block.

Ian Anderson
via e-mail

Spanish billboards here for a reason
Re “Immigrants Should Learn English!” (RN&R Letters, Aug. 9):

The reason why there aren’t billboards around in German, Italian or Swedish is the same reason there are no Swahili billboards: The American population is not composed of those immigrants. Hispanics are the major immigrants, so it is reasonable to believe that if billboards, signs, etc. were going to be in any language, it would be Spanish.

Jennifer Nelson, have you ever traveled abroad? I have, and I can tell you that signs, billboards and ATM machines are usually in a number of languages. Do you think those countries are concerned that they are giving up “their principles and patriotism"?

I find the majority who complain about people who are not fluent in English cannot speak another language themselves. It’s hard to do, and it takes years to perfect. And those who refuse to learn Spanish, even if it means that they are out of business, are acting childishly stubborn and will soon be left in the dust. You learned how to market and finance; now it’s time to learn another tool.

Immigrants from all over the world come here seeking a better life for themselves and their family. We have it so easy in this country, and most aren’t even aware of it.

There is no difference between them and us. There should be no “them and us.” I’ll be damned if I ever let a poor interpretation of patriotism prevent me from educating myself in another language or culture.

April McKeegan
via e-mail

Thanks for the coverage
Re “Celtic Superstars” (RN&R Arts & Lifestyle, July 5):

This year provided another great series of Wednesday nights for the Food Bank of Northern Nevada’s “Food for the Soul” concerts. The crowds in Wingfield Park grew from week to week and really seemed to enjoy themselves.

Attendees were even more prepared to bring donations of food or funds. This year’s donations set a new record at more than $18,000 and nearly 950 pounds of food. We are really pleased that this event exceeded our goals to reach out with our mission to create a hunger-free community. Our message is truly reaching the public, and we thank you!

We sincerely appreciate the support and assistance throughout the concert series. With the excellent coverage of the music groups by writers including Rick Anderson, our attendance visibly increased. The community has shown its appreciation and support, and with your participation, more hungry people in our community will receive food assistance.

Again, thank you for helping us to present a successful event to our community.

Doris Phelps
Assistant director

Food Bank of Northern Nevada

Yet more grammar frustration
Re “Inappropriate Apostrophes: Punishable by Death!” (RN&R, July 19):

Now that the false apostrophe has been destroyed, let us attack the Ivory Tower. There is not, never has been and never will be an Ivory Tower! Of course, there are many ivied towers, halls and walls at universities all over the world.

William L. Courtland
Reno