Certainly, there are some worthy Workforce Solutions unemployment payments. On the other hand, perhaps half or more are somewhat fraudulent. I mean, New Mexico has had to import Chinese and Russians to fill well-paying jobs in casinos and service positions in the hospitality industry. So many people in Northern New Mexico have been on some kind of welfare for so long that they no longer care to work at honest, helpful beneficial jobs.

So where do we get off paying good money for nothing in return? If the Department of Workforce Solutions really wants to find a viable helpful solution, it is to be found in simplicity itself. Everyone who receives weekly long-term payments, which are funded by taxes on businesses, should be willing and required to work.

There are parks, playgrounds, schools and old-folk facilities that need care. Arroyos and other areas need water and soil erosion controls created. Abandoned and short-sale homes could be revitalized and offered to families who are willing to work for an opportunity of low rent or even some type of home acquisition. Demand work in trade for handouts and teach people viable marketable skills at the same time.

No more additional taxes on businesses, especially small ones. Instead, create jobs and teach people valuable skills that increase the self-esteem that comes therewith.

We who bear the burden of funding unemployment must band together and wrest control of government that would rather tax us than really fruitfully help those who need it.

Milton Johnson, of Montecristi Custom Hat Works, lives in Santa Fe.