Thank you so much for the story about the Partlows ("Special deliveries," Nov. 13, Page G-1). Operation Christmas Child is a ministry that I have become very passionate about.

Regarding "Public workers paid fairly" (Letters, Dec. 9): The writer quoting a Berkeley study didn't mention that "paid fairly" includes the cost of pensions. While the employee is working, on average, 8 percent of pay is deducted for retirement. The state contributes another 8 percent. This money, and the interest earned on investments, is the source of state pensions.