Letter: Rebate checks better used for hurricane relief

Friday, Sept. 9, 2005 | 10:01 a.m.

In early October Nevadans will receive $300 million in rebate checks from the state, via the Department of Motor Vehicles. The checks will range in value from $75 to $275.

For seniors, those on fixed incomes or those struggling to make ends meet with rising property taxes and fuel costs, the checks will provide a welcome source of additional funds.

For many others like myself who have stable jobs, comfortable homes and an acceptable standard of living, the rebates are unexpected discretionary income.

Some may use their checks for dinner at a favorite restaurant, tickets to a show, the latest electronic gadget or minor home improvements. But when I think of the thousands of people on the Gulf Coast who have lost their homes, their jobs and all of their possessions, I realize that my rebate can do so much more for them than for me.

Nevadans have already responded impressively to help. Beyond the initial response, and long after the images fade from our televisions, it is clear that the rebuilding of the Gulf Coast will require massive resources over months and even years.

Gov. Kenny Guinn urged all Nevadans "to take a moment to consider what each of us can do to contribute to the ongoing relief efforts in these devastated areas." I'm sending my DMV rebate check to hurricane relief, and I encourage all other Nevadans who can to do the same.

JOHN NOVAK