What a great system we have for fighting fires, I thought to myself as I was combing through the morning paper. Everybody gets that service when they need it.

I thought the same thing as I witnessed the trial of Tyquan Rivera. Here we had at public expense policemen, jurors, defense attorneys, prosecutors, and a judge: all of this because we believe in both justice and safety.

My brother had a stroke 10 years ago. He had the money and insurance to pay for the first four years of care, but his money ran out and he now lives at Monroe Community Hospital, and we all help pay for him. Where would he and others be if it weren't for our safety net of Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid?

In his speeches about Medicare, Ronald Reagan said he was opposed to "government control" and the "loss of our freedom." Sounds like the way Republicans talk about health care now. My brother is kind of happy he's given up this "freedom" to panhandle or starve.

School started this month. We have all agreed to educate all of our kids with no tuition. Wow!

Summer is just about over. I'm thinking of driving out on our state highway and visiting Hamlin State Park. Probably pick up a few books at the public library on my way.

Next year I'll be able to start receiving my Social Security checks, and in another three years I'll be ready for Medicare. I'd like to extend Medicare to everybody. It would be cheaper for the nation and open up some space in the emergency ward.

I hope I don't wake up in a few years with my pants pulled up to my nipples, full of anger, complaining about how the government has ruined my life.

BILL SANDERS, BRIGHTON