Health Insurance

We pride ourselves on being a democracy second to none, a shining light for the rest of the world to emulate. The Greatest Generation fought a long and bloody war a continent away to safeguard democracy in Europe. We are currently fighting two prolonged, costly wars, ostensibly to bring democracy to another distant part of our globe — the Middle East. Some are even rattling their sabers to start a third war. And then there is the current reality. Forty-six million Americans have no health insurance, and their rolls are increasing each day. Those lucky enough to have insurance pay ever-increasing premiums and co-pays, for progressively diminishing coverage, if they are lucky enough to stay employed.

Costa Mesa Planning Commissioner Jim Fisler has resigned his seat on the commission to join the Mesa Consolidated Water District Board of Directors. He will replace former board member Paul Shoenberger, who resigned his post to become the district’s general manager. Fisler, a Realtor by trade, will attend his first water board meeting Sept. 8. Meanwhile, the city will have to replace him on the Planning Commission. Fisler was first appointed to the Planning Commission by the City Council in 2004 after serving two years on the Parks and Recreation Commission.

The Tahitian swell came July 24 and left July 26 (?Wedge gridlock prompts concern,? Saturday). The 48 hours in between were a nightmare for those who live on the peninsula and for those attempting to see the awesome swells rolling in. I?ve lived on Peninsula Point for 25 years and have never experienced such gridlock. We know summer brings crowds, and that is the price we pay for living where we do. We tolerate the crawl up the peninsula to get to Coast Highway. But ? and this is the important factor ?

The House of Representatives adjourned this week, and the Senate will adjourn next week on Aug. 8. Not a day too soon. When all is said and done, this Congress will have spent more money than any other Congress in its history by a factor of two times. Luckily for us the clock is running out and they will not be able to vote on any health-care-reform legislation until they get back from recess. My thinking is that before we change the whole health-care system in this country completely, it is probably a good idea that everyone involved — including the American public — take a deep breath, relax and understand what Rep. Henry Waxman and Speaker Nancy Pelosi want to do with your health care.