Columnist Ruthe Deskin: Punishment lacking in Moore case

Ruthe Deskin

Thursday, Oct. 26, 2000 | 9:42 a.m.

Ruthe Deskin is assistant to the publisher. Reach her at deskin@ vegas.com.

Not even a slap on the wrist?

That the ex-president of the Community College of Southern Nevada, Richard Moore, is a persuasive, dynamic and enthusiastic educator is quite evident to anyone who has had contact with him.

That he has accomplished a great deal by sometimes skirting the rules a bit has been the subject of much discussion in the media, and now in the report of University Chancellor Jane Nichols.

One has to wonder if the Board of Regents will be able to rein him in as he tackles his latest venture -- the establishment of a state university in Henderson. As president of the proposed institution, his activities will be guided by his own enthusiasm. With the knowledge of past transgressions, it is up to the regents to monitor this one closely.

The chancellor's report was sometimes contradictory. Although she identified numerous problems stemming from past practices at CCSN, she said, "I did not find anything that showed any malfeasance or negligence."

Even the regents, according to media reports, seem to be wallowing in muddy waters.

Regent Dave Phillips noted that the chancellor's review found no violations of university policy. On the other hand, Regent Doug Hill said the board would need to focus on changes to ensure the problems did not recur.

Nichols went so far as to say, "There are definite positive reasons these actions were taken." That is the old "ends justify the means" alibi.

Regent Tom Kirkpatrick was disappointed that "no one is being held accountable."

Regent Steve Sisolak stated: "I think we are sending a mixed message. If you're caught doing something there will be no consequences."

Meanwhile, Moore, with his usual ebullience and enthusiasm, calls the probe a "healthy exercise" that will give college presidents more guidance in the future.

You have to admire the guy's insouciance. At the same time, the members of the Board of Regents have a hot issue on their hands and it isn't going to cool down any time soon.

Congratulations to Johnnie Blakeney Rawlinson.

I met Johnnie when she was a legal adviser to the old Juvenile Probation Committee, and was impressed with her intelligence and intuitive skills.

Friends and peers have been invited to her investiture as U.S. Circuit Judge, which will take place tomorrow. It couldn't happen to a nicer person.

For those who enjoy good writing without violence and sensationalism, I recommend Jack Sheehan's "Vegas Diary" in Showbiz magazine, Susan Snyder's in-depth people profiles in her Valley Views column in the Sun, and Rae Turnbull's poetry corner in that other newspaper -- all great reading.

Your vote counts, if only for the satisfaction of having had your say. Early voting sites are located throughout the county. There's no excuse for not exercising your right to vote.

Who gets more fun out of life than ex-Lt. Gov. Dr. Lonnie Hammargren? His "Hammargren House of Horror" Halloween party promises to be a blast.