Letters to the Editor: Velma Morrison

'Quid pro quo' isn'tLatin for philanthropy

My Webster's dictionary doesn't mention quid pro quo in the definition of philanthropy, much less an illegal one. Good call, Mayor Bieter.

JOYCEANNE FICK, Kuna

City behaves like anunthinking bureaucracy

Your headline on the Velma Morrison request for opening up a view of the Boise River, reads; "Morrison says the city is 'being very unkind.'" I would replace her word, "unkind" with the word stupid, or at the very least, unthinkingly bureaucratic. My mother would have called it "cutting off your nose to spite your face."

This lady and the Morrison Foundation have continued what the Morrison family has always done, giving major support to this community. The amount of money the Morrison Foundation gives each year in support of schools, entertainment and many other community needs is phenomenal. I'm just wondering if Mayor Dave Bieter and Gov. Butch Otter will have a problem with taking that annual grant of millions. Maybe when her building project, the environmentally remodeled Falcon, gets a gold medal from the "Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design" group next month, they will at least recognize appropriately what she, and her family, have given this city.

I would bet even just a simple list of all the dollars, and other tangible assets given over the years would open a few eyes.

NETTIE KUNZ, Boise

Bieter, city protectimportant habitat

I'm writing to applaud Mayor Bieter and Boise City's decision not to allow the clearing of vegetation along the Boise River. While I can understand Velma Morrison's desire to improve views of the Boise River from her building, in this instance I must respectfully disagree.

The riparian vegetation along the Boise River is critical to the health of the river and the many species that depend on the river for their survival. Clearing vegetation to improve views can lead to higher water temperatures, increased streambank erosion, decreased water quality and loss of habitat for birds and wildlife.

The Boise River provides greatly to the quality of life in the Treasure Valley and we need to be vigilant in protecting the Boise River. The choice is ours - do we want a healthy and vibrant river? Or do we continue to encroach, clear and "improve" until, one day in the future, we realize we've created another Los Angeles River?

The choice is ours.

KEVIN LEWIS, Boise

Shame, shame, Bieter

I have read the Statesman's article relating to Velma Morrison's request. Let's pause a moment and think of the tremendous accomplishments of the Harry Morrison family and employees in their efforts for Boise and worldwide. MK published a monthly magazine for years covering its accomplishments holding to high visions of perfection.

How could Mayor Bieter deny her efforts to such a small expression for MK's worthwhile acts of countless worldwide and Boise gifts? Shame, shame, Mayor Bieter.

MARGARET LAWRENCE, Boise

Bieter's decision displays a lack of compassion

Way to go Bieter, regarding Mrs. Morrison's request for the removal of riverbank vegetation. In denying her request, you sure show how much compassion you have! I believe any other mayor would have cut an old lady a little slack considering she and her husband have given more to the city than you would if you lived to be a hundred years old.

You can bet your last dollar that I will vote for you - Ha! Ha! Ha! I hope Mrs. Morrison and some of her friends make some of your days a little different than usual.

GORDON P. HAUSTVEIT, Boise