Letters to the Editor

I am writing in response to Mark Di Maria's letter of Oct. 23.

To begin with, could we drop the unnecessary hyperbole? Comparing Barack Obama, who is a relative moderate, or even health care reform, to the Soviet Union or Nazi Germany is ridiculous.

I also note that people seem to like to pick and choose their socialism. The right to a fair trial is the hallmark of an open democracy. Mr. Di Maria would like to take away that right from the American people, much like they did in the Soviet Union, or Nazi Germany.

I also find it interesting that he would like a system like they have in England, where the loser of a legal matter pays all of the costs. That would be that socialist country -- England.

Personally, I would like to keep my right to a fair trial, thank you very much. You want to cut costs -- cut the obscene profit out of the insurance and pharmaceutical industries.

Oh, and I also don't think that only the lucky, or those who "guess" right, should be entitled to health care. That's a scarier thought than the fictional death panels.

Sharon Heath

Naperville

Polar bears are perhaps the most recognizable of the thousands of animal species threatened by climate change. Without dramatic action, two-thirds of these iconic bears will disappear from the wild by 2050.

Any comprehensive climate and energy legislation must dedicate 5 percent of the funding generated to safeguarding fish and wildlife and the natural resources on which we all rely. Our senators should know that their constituents expect nothing less.

Diane Kastel

Wheaton

Just two observation:

1. What added value do insurance companies give to my relationship with my health care provider? A single-payer plan would eliminate the corporate profit motive from my doctor's office and has to be cheaper for all.

2. I would rather have government appointees who are accountable to the public making health care decisions for me rather than insurance providers who are accountable first and foremost to make as much money for their stockholders as possible.

Dr. Ray McKinnis

Winfield

Because of you, our world might be a better place for all. You are non-violent. You are responsible, You respect your brothers and sisters of all faiths and colors.

Wars are something you loathe. Peace is always on your mind. Your efforts are bringing people together for achieving positive goals.

Yes, if all the yous in the world worked together, our world would live in peace and harmony. It would truly be Utopia. Is this the impossible dream?

Kristin Sabey Bladek

Woodridge

The Palatine Brown's Fried Chicken killer James Degorski's behavior has been attributed to early childhood abuse.

My bet is his mania was more due to drug abuse.

The same can be said for Brian Dugan.

We know the destruction alcohol consumption can cause, but do we ever have a full report on the effects of illegal drugs?

How many street gang killers are high when committing murder?

If it's mind altering, it's monster making.

Mel Dormer

Aurora