Letters to the Editor for Saturday, December 12, 2009

Great local support for U.S. veterans
On behalf of all members of DAV Chapter 8, I am honored to have this opportunity to express to Rick Smith, owner; Mike Sisk, manager; and the entire staff of Golden Corral our heartfelt thanks, appreciation and respect for their recognition of veterans Nov. 16.

The Golden Corral on Wards Road opened its doors Nov. 16 to armed forces veterans from all services and all wars in recognition of their service to our nation in times of war and peace. Beginning at 5 p.m. and continuing until late in the evening, this remarkable group of patriots served more than 1,000 delicious meals to an appreciative group of veterans and family members, all at no cost to the veterans. This recognition is especially welcome considering that our nation continues to be involved in two wars that has already cost many lives and resulted in a significant number of veterans disabled for life. We thank you for your generosity and are most appreciative of your kindness.

I am also pleased to express our appreciation to the Golden Corral for allowing DAV Chapter 8 the opportunity to inform the customers about our many service programs and to contribute funds to support these programs. The Annual Golden Corral Appreciation Event conducted at the Wards Road restaurant resulted in $3,700 being contributed by veterans and friends. This amount again establishes a new high and exceeds the $2,070 donated at the last years Golden Corral Appreciation Event. For this most generous support, we extend our thanks and appreciation to all who have made a contribution. We assure you the entire amount donated will be used locally to aid needy veterans, eligible family members and widows of veterans.

The Veterans Service Officer with offices in the Marine Corps League Building at 2337 Lakeside Drive is accredited to; and jointly supported by DAV Chapter 8, VFW Post 8184, and American Legion Post 16. The office is open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesdays for walk-ins and Thursdays by appointment. For assistance please call Don Mustard at (434) 316-0229 to arrange an appointment or to discuss your question.
GEORGE T. DUFF
Commander
Disabled American Veterans, Chapter 8

Taxes and profits
The author of the Dec. 9 letter to the editor “Obamacare should be killed” stated that private insurance companies are not out to make a profit. Oh really? Insurance companies are like any other business — to make a profit. Just check out any of the private insurance companies on their profit margins. Medicare is not in the business to make profits, sir, Veterans Administration is not in the health care business to make profits, but private insurance companies are in the business to make fortunes, and they do.

On another note, our new governor-elect, stated that he would not raise taxes. According to Webster’s dictionary, a toll is a tax. A toll road is just another way of taxing. So what’s next—a poll tax for every time we vote?
RENE H. PROVENCHER
Lynchburg