Readers weigh in: cease-fire calls, Indiana wetlands, Medicare Advantage Plans

Here's what community members had to say in three recent letters to the editor we received. Submit your own thoughts here.

Why is there a public call for a cease-fire? It will only benefit Hamas

Like many, I am saddened by the events in the Middle East, especially by the realization that, in any war, there are always innocent victims. It’s difficult to pick up a newspaper — if you can find one today — or read news on the internet that doesn’t include articles about a public outcry for a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war.  I would be curious to know the motivation of those calling for a cease-fire. 

I’m sure there are many with solely humanitarian motives, but I also suspect that many want to give Hamas an opportunity to reload. The latter supposition is evidenced by the numerous pro-Hamas rallies throughout our country. 

To those calling for a ceasefire, I, as a person not of the Jewish faith, have several simple questions, the answers to which should be self-evident: If Israel stops its campaign to root out terrorists who slaughtered many innocent men, women and children, will Hamas agree to release hostages and stop lobbing rockets into Israel on a daily basis? Will Hamas agree to the existence of Israel and further agree not to conduct future terrorist attacks in Israel despite its announced purpose of eliminating Israel as a nation and annihilating all Jews? Would a cease-fire while Israel has Hamas on the run do no more than delay the inevitable battle and worsen the destruction and loss of life inherent in any future war?

Donald Tribbett

Logansport

Recent Supreme Court decision puts Indiana wetlands at risk

From grassy marshes to ponds and streams, Indiana’s wetlands are home to many birds and other wildlife across the state. We used to think of these places as nuisances to be drained and filled, which led to the destruction of more than 85% of the state’s wetlands and the loss of birds like the Black Tern and Yellow-headed Blackbird. Now that we know the benefits wetlands provide, we must take action to protect these important spaces.

I recently joined over 100 Indianapolis residents for Audubon Great Lakes’ and Amos Butler Audubon Society’s Birds and Brews event to discuss the urgent need to protect our state’s wetlands. A recent decision by the U.S. Supreme Court could place as many as 300,000 acres of wetlands in Indiana at risk of destruction without state protection.

In addition to providing habitat for wildlife, wetlands store a tremendous amount of water, helping to protect communities against flooding. Indiana recreationists who use wetlands also help support the state’s outdoor recreation economy, which generates more than $15 billion in consumer spending a year.

Passing strong policies to protect wetlands will help ensure that Indiana is a place where wildlife and communities can thrive.

Chuck Anderson

Westfield

Medicare Advantage Plans will cost too much time, money

If you are 65 or older you are likely being bombarded by solicitations for health care plans. If you are considering or have chosen a Medicare Advantage plan, you will be covered by a for-profit insurance company and not the U.S. government and for-profit companies generally consider shareholders before patients. Unlike traditional Medicare, Medicare Advantage Plans include provider network restrictions, geographic limitations and prior authorization requirements among other obstacles to obtaining the best care possible. Understandably cost may be a factor; however, consider the cost if you become ill and need to use the healthcare system to get better. The cons of a Medicare Advantage plan may cost you time and more money than you saved.

Margo Kelly

Indianapolis