Letters and Comments for October 21, 2009

Letters and Comments for October 21, 2009

Kudos to Young Americans

and local supporters

To the Editor:

Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, Oct. 11-13, 47 Young Americans were hosted by

La Grande families. Approximately 40 young people from La Grande participated in a three-day life-altering workshop in song, dance and theater that culminated in an amazing two-hour show — the likes of which I have never seen before in La Grande.

For those who participated, they know what an awesome experience this was for everyone involved. For those who did not, if you ever get the chance to see the Young Americans in action, I hope you won’t let the opportunity slip by again.

In three short days, the Young Americans transformed La Grande kids into dancers and singers extraordinaire! The professional quality of the Young Americans as performers and teachers was evident throughout the entire show. Whether it was singing a solo in Japanese, dancing the Jitterbug or pantomiming opening a door, nearly ever child who participated discovered a talent that was spotlighted during the show. All went away with an increased excitement and enthusiasm for the performing arts.

A huge thank-you to all the host families and all others who made this experience for our children possible. A special thank-you to two very special people in our

community — Jane Howell and Earlene Lamb — for coordinating this event.

Denise Hattan

La Grande

No health care access for many

To the Editor:

Commenting on Mr Morehead’s Oct. 12 letter, I do not begrudge the health care he has received but believe he is missing the point that many others do not have such access.

Growing up in a country with socialized medicine, I am acutely aware of the pros and cons of socialized medicine. There is a “fear” that something will be lost if the control of health care is taken away from the private sector. The temptation is to criticize the insurance industry. In their defense, they are in the business of making a profit. Other essential services such as law enforcement and fire protection are not entrusted to private corporations. Why is health care?

While many who have access to health care are satisfied, there are thousands suffering without such care. It may mean we have to give a little so others can receive. Socialized medicine can work if everyone works together — the government, insurance companies, pharmaceutical companies, the medical profession and last but not least you and me.

The reason the system is flawed both in the UK and in Canada is that there is still an element of the society that reserves the right to pay extra and get more, reducing the effectiveness of the system itself.

In the UK there is a two-tiered system where the rich and the not-so-rich expect to buy supplemental insurance to ensure the treatment they think they are owed. This in itself compromises the effectiveness of the socialized system.

Until we remove the profiteering aspect of health care and the current culture of personal greed, I do not see an easy solution.

Pamela W. Moore

La Grande