Newspaper not to blame for others' mistakes
So a few candidates for Associated Student elections were embarrassed by photos and stories from their past partying. Don't blame the Orion reporters for doing their job. Think of it as a wonderful lesson in the American political process. We have seen the same, or much worse, in real political races. Most of the candidates did the right thing. They accepted responsibility, explained that, yes, they are college students who like to have fun, and explained that their past actions did not mean they were not qualified. Good job Orion. And good luck to all candidates involved. Remember that this is only the beginning for all of you.
John Geiger, Chico State Alumnus
American health care needs improvement
Most Americans would think an advanced country like the United States would have an equally impressive health care system. However, our health care system ranks 37th among international health care systems listed by the World Health Organization, falling just below Costa Rica.
Millions of residents have no insurance or are under-insured. Almost half of the personal bankruptcies in the United States are a result of medical expenses, and the majority of these had health insurance at the beginning of their treatment. Emergency rooms have become overcrowded, and many of them have been forced to close. Businesses are having a hard time keeping up with insurance premiums. These costs are being passed on to their employees.
Our current health care system is just not working (for all Americans). Realizing this, many people have decided to take action to restructure and improve our health care system. The California Senate and Assembly made history last August when it passed Senate Bill 840, which would provide full coverage for all Californians for life. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed the bill. It's been reintroduced and offers many benefits.
The bill would consolidate the thousands of insurance plans in California, both private and public, into one comprehensive public insurance plan, saving the state, patients and providers billions of dollars each year. It shows what a great opportunity we have to create a real health care system for the people of California.
Elisabeth Musso
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