Letters to Editor: Amalgamation would bring debt

Amalgamation would bring debt
Should Napier be surprised Chris Tremain is backing the amalgamation of Napier-Hastings? Tremain's campaign slogan is, after all: Backing the Bay (not Backing Napier). In 2012-13 Napier's debt is expected to remain at $4 million, while Hastings' debt will rise to $93 million (Dominion Post).
Napier would subsequently take on that vast amount of debt, which would likely see rates in Napier increase. When you consider all the facts, it's hard to understand why Tremain is so eager to unite these two cities. Tremain is supporting a cause that the overwhelming majority of Napier residents are against - so why? It does make you question to whom is Tremain loyal? It makes me angry to see our local MP going against the views of his constituents. That's why I know who I'm NOT voting for in November.
Aaron Dustow, Napier
Degrees of accuracy
I really enjoy Gary Sparks' column and would appreciate it if you would ask him to remind his readers - me - how to assess degrees measurements. I'm sure its to do with holding your hand out at arm's length and knowing the length (or width) of your hand is about 10 degrees or 12 degrees or 25 degrees I just don't remember that detail.
I think many readers would get more out of his monthly information if they could use it easily and this is easy - if only I could remember what it is.
Sheryle Harison, Tutira
Dangerous ride
To the teenage cyclist who shot out in front of my car in Napier on Tuesday at 6.30am, crossing Kennedy Rd from Trinity Cres: You had no lights, no helmet and you failed to check for traffic. You are lucky I have good brakes and you are also lucky I was doing just 40km/h at the time.
You were going so fast that, if I had hit you, your body would probably be broken on the road. Your actions were stupid, to say the least, and terrifying for me. Please, please, look both ways before you cross the road, always wear a cycle helmet and use lights front and rear - so drivers like me don't have to pull over and wait almost five minutes for the shaking to stop.
Kerry Hebberley, Napier
Insult to heroes
Re the article: Vets' treatment draws fire, July 9 - what a national disgrace!
Each year at ANZAC services around the country and across the generations we honour our veterans, those who returned, just as we honour those who did not. Is this just lip service on the part of the government?
In 1981, I found myself in Crete just after the 40th Anniversary commemorations, and, having an uncle who served in the campaign, basked in the generosity and hospitality of the local people who had real affection for the Australian and New Zealand troops who had tried to defend their island home. That our small band of war heroes did not receive the level of honour and assistance accorded by the Australian government to theirs is a scandal. If the report is correct (the "official party enjoying a lavish lunch on their own") then the minister's head should roll!
At the very least the veterans' expenses should be refunded and an apology tended, although nothing can really compensate for the insult.
 Phillip Rankin, Napier