Dear Governor Heineman:

I read your comments about being "appalled" at the recent ruling that Nebraska's method of execution is cruel and unusual. I find it hard to understand how someone who is so adamant about the sanctity of life in the abortion issue, can be so callous in carrying out death by electrocution to those citizens of the state who have been convicted of capital crimes. What does your church say about this issue? With all the evidence that proves execution is no deterrent to such crimes, and with so many recent convictions nationwide being overturned by DNA evidence, I am equally "appalled" that my state is still killing people with taxpayer money.

You also know that the cost of execution far exceeds that of life-in-prison sentences, so simple economics dictates the latter. It appears that your main motive in this stand is to seek revenge for these crimes. I recently heard Kurt Mesner of Central City speak about the death of his sister over twenty years ago; Randy Reevees now sits in prison in Lincoln for that crime, and the last thing Kurt wants is Randy's execution. If the beloved brother of a murder victim is satisfied with a life sentence for the perpetrator, should that not be enough for you and Mr. Bruning?

I urge you to rethink your position on this issue; killing in the name of revenge is barbaric, whether it is carried out by a criminal, or by the State. We will be judged harshly as a society by future generations for being among a handful of (mostly backward) nations to cling to this inhuman practice.

Larry Maupin

1603 N Oak St

Pleased to see Benners recognized

I am so pleased to see the article about the Benner family being chosen as the volunteer family of the year for Nebraska Special Olympics. This family is to be congratulated for all of the time and energy they have given to Central City's and Nebraska's Special Olympics. I have found Central City Special Olympics very active and exciting and so much thanks goes to Carolyn Kucera, their founder.

Alan Benner is a charter member of Grand Island Special Olympics, organized in Aug. of 1978. He was one of our special athletes, and it was such a disappointment to all of us when he moved to Central City in the early 1990s. While in GISO Alan competed successfully in basketball, swimming, roller skating, bowling, and track and field. Alan and my son, Tom, were roommates for many years and it was a sad day for us when Alan left Grand Island. We treasure the times we see him at various area and state meets, and wish him and his wonderful family happy days ahead and our congratulations on a job well-done.

Vera M. Reddish

216 E. 16th

St. Paul wrestling tourney was great

I just wanted to take a minute to say WAY TO GO St. Paul on a job well done at last weekends C-3 District Wrestling Tournament! Rick Peters, his staff, the wrestling coaches, students, boosters, table help and PA announcer put on a first class event that ran smoothly and made for an enjoyable weekend. Thank you for sacrificing your time to make our time a good one.

Tom Osterbuhr

2511 Mill River Road

Looking for lost camera, images

This is a letter with hope that the wonderful people of Grand Island can help get my memories back. Over the weekend I was at a gathering and my truck wouldn't start. I grabbed my things and walked across town in the cold and slipped and fell. I just recently found that I am missing my camera. I have my kids' pictures on there and don't get to see them a lot them being in Omaha. If anyone has found please contact me. Thank You.

Barry Carlson

915 Sun Valley Drive