Where Was Buckle Coverage?
Editor,
I am writing about out San Benito County Saddle Horse Show and Rodeo. I really believe one of the unique features of our show is that all of the cowboys and cowgirls are either residents of our county or taxpayers, and the top item for them is competing for the “All Around Buckle” Paul and Willene Wattis donate every year. A number of times in the past there was a tie for this buckle, and rather than have a run-off the Wattis’ very graciously told the Committee that they would donate two buckles. This year there was a 3-way tie, and again the Wattises told the committee they would donate three buckles.
When people read your paper about the Show and items of interest no mention has ever been made about this. Don’t you think you should have advised the public of this kindness?
Mary Jo Appel, Paicines
Taxpayers Shouldn’t Have to Subsidize Program
Editor,
I’m appalled that no consideration was given to the residents of San Benito County to vote on the subject issue – especially since its $82,500 of our tax monies being used for this program benefiting a FEW. This money could be better used in funding police protection especially with the increase in gang-related problems in our county.
The method proposed in this “elimination” program was outlawed by the federal government using tortuous traps. I don’t believe this program is justified for those few farmers and ranchers to deplete our general fund when we have other more pressing issues for the safety of the community.
We have already lost the kit fox because we tried to appease these few complainers. The ecosystem is also adversely affected with this program leading to other bigger problems. These landowners have the right to police their property and we taxpayers should not have to subsidize this program when they already receive thousands of dollars from the government in farm subsidies.
I urge you to take this issue to task and cancel funding this program.
Mrs. James Appenzeller, Hollister
