Dirigo, heal thyself
The otherwise informative article on Dirigo funding (see “Baldacci Raids the Cookie Jar,” by Lance Tapley, October 17) contained a key error regarding health insurance companies paying the savings offset payment (SOP). There was no delay by insurers in paying the SOP as described in the article. The law requires a retrospective look back at claims to calculate the payment. Could it be that the Dirigo Board’s own decision to voluntarily suspend payments for six months (January to June 2007) is the actual cause of Dirigo’s financial woes?
Katherine Pelletreau
Executive Director, Maine Association of Health Plans
Cumberland
Supporting Adams
I’m writing this letter in support of Representative Herb Adams in his bid for reelection in Portland’s House District 119. Representative Adams has fought tirelessly for the residents of his district for many years and has passed into law many new programs that directly benefit those of us living in Parkside, Bayside, and East Bayside.
Herb strongly supports legislation that guarantees affordable housing for those who need it most. He personally runs workshops and information sessions to make sure that residents are receiving the tax credits they deserve. In the past few months, Herb has come to two of my condo association’s meetings to inform us of programs that can help lower our costs of living. In these tough times, Herb works harder to make our lives easier. Representative Adams also strongly supports research into new energy sources that will help all Mainers live better.
Herb is the type of advocate that we all deserve in Augusta. His devotion to his constituents, experience enacting legislation that makes a difference, and dedication to issues that affect everyone make him the clear choice in District 119. Please support Herb Adams on November 4.
Katy Nicketakis
Portland
Losing a reader
I was greatly disappointed to read your recent issue of the Portland Phoenix on the subject of abortion (see “I Had An Abortion,” by Anonymous, and “Personally Speaking” and “Where They Stand,” by Deirdre Fulton, September 26). I had always thought that true journalism leaves the verdict with regard to certain social issues up to the reader. I guess I was wrong. Please allow me to provide a response.
You see, the truth is — that is, the objective truth is — that human life begins at conception. From the moment that the chromosomes of the human sperm and egg unite, there is a new human being, distinct genetically from either its father or mother. It has a unique human genome, and it is already male or female. It is clearly and definitely and scientifically identifiable as a human being at the earliest stage of development. Attempts to show otherwise lack either scientific validity or inherent logical consistency. So in truth, abortion is actually, objectively, metaphysically, and truly “murder.” Abortion “is” a literal genocide, an actual “holocaust” occurring in this country, right under our very eyes.
