Letters to the Editor

Health insurance

debate is important

To the Editor:

As Congress debates the best way to fix our ailing health insurance system, the debate across America is heating up. Last week, my staff and I met with over 100 8th District Hoosiers one-on-one to talk about health insurance reform. I want to thank those who took time from their busy days to contribute to this critical conversation: Sharing their stories, discussing their concerns, and offering their own ideas for change.

Only a uniquely American solution will fix the weaknesses in the current system, and any solution must first start with an honest and open conversation. I've always said that we will never achieve real health care reform without giving all of the stakeholders in this debate a seat at the table. That includes you.

That's why I am working to provide additional opportunities for this constructive discussion to continue. In the upcoming weeks, you can expect to see additional roundtable discussions with local health care experts, more one-on-one meeting opportunities for constituents, and a telephone town hall to give constituents another opportunity to weigh-in on this important debate.

Please continue to check the 8th District Online Office (www.ellsworth.house.gov) for more information on these events. While you're there, be sure to check out the new Understanding Health Care Reform section. There you can read the full text of the House's version of the health insurance reform bill, get the scoop about proposed changes to the legislation, learn the truth behind common myths, and make your voice heard by taking my online health care survey.

Your feedback will provide valuable information and ideas as Congress considers health insurance reform legislation in September.

U.S. Rep. Brad Ellsworth

Evansville

Softball player

expresses thanks

To the Editor:

Hi, my name is Brilee Parker, and I play for the Greene County Clovers IZU B Class fastpitch softball team. We just returned from the USSSA Midwest Nationals World Series tournament in Columbus, Ohio, where we placed fifth out of 34 teams.

I would like to thank my head coaches, Matt Fougerousse and Matt Hockman, for being the best coaches that I could ask for. They pushed us to be as good as we are now. Secondly, I would like to thank my teammates for working together just like a team should. I had an awesome season with you girls.

Also I would like to thank my sponsors: Jarvis Coal LLC., Eugene Martin, Nicky's Hair Network, Fast Zack's Car Wash, Anderson Poindexter, JoEtta's Pizza Villa, Francisco De Barja Coffee Shop, Jiffy Treet, Trent's Body Shop, Brandy's, Mercury Cleaners, Key Associates, Candy Rosebrangh, Kluesner Construction, and Bob and Kathy Wolfe.

A huge thank you goes to my family for all of their support, and an even bigger thank you to God as He watched over everyone throughout the tournaments.

Thank you.

Brilee Parker, No. 28

Linton

Johnson family appreciates support

To the Editor:

The family of JW "Pee Wee" Johnson would like to express our gratitude to everyone who has given their support, prayers, food, cards, kind words and thoughts, gifts and love during this difficult time.

There are no words that can begin to express how grateful we are for the tremendous show of support that we have received. We cannot begin to thank everyone individually, as there were so many people who came by and called to offer their support and show their love for our family.

Thank you!

Lena Johnson and family

Worthington