Florida nonprofit helps cut veteran suicide rates by 25% with community-based approach

A Florida-based nonprofit is tackling veteran suicide by connecting community members and holding fast that the crisis American vets are facing is preventable.
The Fire Watch operates on three premises: that suicide is preventable, that timely connection to resources can save lives, and that communities must play an active role in prevention.
"It takes the community to get involved in suicide prevention," Executive Director Nick Howland told Fox News Digital.
After seeing impressive results, The Fire Watch is hoping to take its regional organization nationwide with an approach that tackles veteran suicide differently with treatment-focused efforts and local engagement.
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At the heart of The Fire Watch's strategy is the "Watch Stander" program, modeled after CPR training.
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In a concise 30-to-45-minute session, volunteers learn to recognize warning signs, ask direct questions, validate the veterans' experience, and expedite referral to services—summarized by the acronym SAVE.
"Like CPR doesn't train you to be a paramedic, our training doesn't turn you into a clinician," Howland said. "It trains you to notice the change and sound the alarm for help."
Each Watch Stander leaves with a wallet card, wristband, and sticker as reminders of critical red flags—expressions of self-harm, substance abuse, reckless behavior, or giving away possessions—and the simple steps to get someone to help.
The nonprofit works in tandem with the state's veteran affairs offices and connects veterans with counseling services.
Since its inception in Northeast Florida, The Fire Watch has tracked dramatic reductions in veteran suicides.
After recording 81 veteran deaths by suicide in 2019, Howland set an audacious goal: cut that number by at least 25% for three consecutive years.
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As of the latest data released May 1, veteran suicides in the region fell to 61 in 2023—25% below the 2019 baseline for the fourth straight year.
Statewide, veteran suicides are down 5%, and in areas where The Fire Watch has a foothold (Northeast Florida, South Florida, Tampa Bay, and Escambia County), the decline has been 12%, compared to just 2% elsewhere in the Sunshine State.
"Where we're building our network of community members who care, who get veterans to the help they need, veteran suicidality is decreasing," he said. "It's remarkable."
For volunteers like Ryan Haczynski, the program's impact is deeply personal. After losing a Vietnam veteran friend to suicide in late 2022, Haczynski searched for a way to honor his memory and prevent further loss.
"I didn't recognize the signs," he reflected, telling Fox News Digital that his friend had even asked him to be the executor of his will just weeks before his death.
Following the vet's suicide, Haczynski's online search led him into Watch Stander and Ambassador trainings, where he has since certified others and even helped arrange a proper military funeral for his friend.
Haczynski now uses every community interaction to check in on veterans, validate their experiences, and point them to Fire Watch's free 24/7 crisis resources.
"We want to give back, we want to help, especially people who have done so much [for our country] to go and serve us," he said.
Learn more about The Fire Watch at thefirewatch.org.Original article source: Florida nonprofit helps cut veteran suicide rates by 25% with community-based approach

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Business Insider

an hour ago

• Business Insider

3 simple recipes that make eating fewer ultra-processed foods easy, by a nutritionist

Ultra-processed foods have been linked to health issues such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. While they can be convenient, they should be eaten in moderation, a nutritionist said. Rhiannon Lambert shared recipes for granola, flatbreads, and chocolate peanut bars. In recent years, ultra-processed food has been the subject of endless news reports, books, and online debate. But while research increasingly points to the potential health risks of UPFs, including cardiovascular disease and cancer, they shouldn't necessarily be demonized, the UK-based registered nutritionist Rhiannon Lambert told Business Insider. Processing food can preserve it better, or make it more accessible, she said. "I think UPFs have a place, but they should not be consumed as frequently as they are, and they have become a problem in the sense that most people are now missing out on whole foods by opting for ultra-processed foods instead," Lambert said. In her new book, "The Unprocessed Plate: Simple, Flavourful UPF-free Recipes to Transform Your Life," Lambert explains what people need to know about UPFs and shares recipes to help you eat fewer of them. Below are three recipes that are easy to make from scratch so you can avoid buying ultra-processed versions. Easy yogurt flatbreads "These flatbreads are such a useful recipe to have up your sleeve, and you can use whatever flour you have to hand. Each type of yogurt and flour has different hydration levels, so this recipe is just a guide — if you find the dough is too dry, add splashes of water until it comes together; if you find it's too wet, simply add more flour," Lambert wrote. She continued: "Once you've got the hang of the basic recipe, feel free to experiment by adding some of the optional extras to the dough. The flatbreads are also delicious brushed with a little melted butter as they come out of the pan." Prep: 10 minutes Cook: 10 minutes Nutrition per portion: Fiber: 3.1 grams Protein: 13 grams Ingredients: 400 grams (3 cups/14 ounces) white spelt or wholemeal flour, plus extra to dust 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 teaspoon sea salt 1 teaspoon olive oil, plus extra for frying if needed 200 grams (1 cup/7 ounces) skyr, Greek yogurt, or coconut yogurt Optional extras: Freshly ground black pepper Grated garlic Nigella seeds Cumin seeds Chopped coriander (cilantro) leaves Sliced spring onion (scallion) Desiccated (dried, shredded) coconut Method: 1. Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl, then stir in the olive oil and yogurt (add any additional extras now, too). Mix with your hands until the dough comes together, then tip onto a flour-dusted surface and knead for a couple of minutes until you have a smooth dough. Divide the dough into six equal balls, cover with a clean tea (dish) towel, and allow to rest for at least 10 minutes. 2. Meanwhile, set a griddle pan or non-stick frying pan (skillet) over a high heat. 3. Roll each dough ball into a flatbread shape about 20 centimeters (eight inches) long and two millimeters (1⁄8 inch) thick. If your pan isn't non-stick or you want a slightly crisp finish to your flatbreads, brush both sides of the flatbreads with a little olive oil. 4. When the pan is searingly hot, add a flatbread to the pan and cook for 60 to 90 seconds until char marks appear, then flip it over and cook the other side until nicely charred too. Wrap the flatbread in a tea (dish) towel while you cook the rest. Seedy granola "This is such an adaptable recipe that you can make based on what you have in your store cupboard or your personal preferences for flavor and crunch. I love it, as it provides my family and me with lovely healthy fats and fibre for the day ahead. Serve as it is with your preferred milk, or top with fresh fruit and yogurt," Lambert said. Prep: 25 minutes Cook: 40 minutes Nutrition per 40-gram portion: Fiber: 3.3 grams Protein: 5.3 grams Ingredients: 175 grams (6.5 ounces) jumbo oats 175 grams (6.5 ounces) barley, spelt, or rye flakes (or simply use more jumbo oats) 150 grams (5.5 ounces) nuts, roughly chopped (I use a mix of almonds, hazelnuts, pecans, and walnuts) 150 grams (5.5 ounces) seeds (I use a mix of pumpkin, sunflower, sesame, and flaxseeds) 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom (or a mix) (optional) 50 grams (5 tablespoons/1.75 ounces) coconut oil 100 grams (1⁄3 cup/3.5 ounces) maple syrup 4 tablespoons almond or peanut butter (optional) 75 grams (2.75 ounces) organic* dried fruit, roughly chopped (I use a mix of dried apricots, figs, dates, cranberries, and sour cherries) Sea salt *Select organic dried fruit to ensure it doesn't contain additives like sulphur dioxide Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 160°C/140°C fan/325°F and line your largest baking sheet with baking paper. 2. Mix all the dry ingredients in a large bowl. 3. Melt the coconut oil in a small saucepan over a low heat (or melt in the microwave for 30 seconds). Stir in the maple syrup, nut butter (if using), and a pinch of salt, then mix until fully combined. Pour over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is nicely coated. 4. Spread out in an even layer on the baking sheet and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until golden, stirring and tossing occasionally so that it cooks evenly. 5. Leave to cool on the tray, then stir in the dried fruit. 6. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Note: You can cook this using your air fryer too. Heat the air fryer to 160°C/325°F and air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, tossing occasionally. You may need to air fry the granola in two batches depending on the size of your air fryer, for ultimate crispness. It will crisp up further as it cools. Chocolate, peanut, and date bars "Sticky, nutty, and chocolatey, these are the ultimate pick-me-up. You can slice these into smaller bars if you like, but be aware that you may need a little more chocolate to coat all of them. In the summer, I love to eat these straight out of the freezer sprinkled with a tiny pinch of flaky salt," Lambert said. Makes about 15 bars Cook: five minutes Nutrition per bar: Fibre: 3.3 grams Protein: 5 grams Ingredients: 75 grams (3⁄4 cup/2.75 ounces) jumbo or rolled oats 300 grams (10.5 ounces) pitted Medjool dates 4 tablespoons smooth peanut butter 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract 0.25 teaspoon sea salt 80 grams (2.75 ounces) unsalted roasted peanuts 175 grams (6.25 ounces) dark (bittersweet) chocolate (at least 75% cocoa solids), broken into small pieces 2 teaspoons coconut oil 1. Line a 20-centimeter (8-inch) square cake pan with baking paper, with plenty of overhang. Place the oats in a blender or food processor and blitz to a fine flour, then tip into a bowl and set aside. 2. Place the dates in the blender or food processor (no need to clean it) with the peanut butter, vanilla, and salt. Roughly blitz, then slowly add 75 milliliters (five tablespoons/2.5 fluid ounces) of water until you have a smooth, thick paste. Be sure to scrape down the sides occasionally. Remove 300 grams (10.5 ounces) of the date mix to a bowl and set aside. 3. Add the oat flour back to the blender or food processor with the remaining date mix and pulse a few times until it's nicely combined. Tip the mixture into the base of the lined pan and use wet fingertips to spread it into a smooth layer that fills the tin. 4. Spread the remaining date mixture on top, smoothing it with a spatula. Evenly sprinkle over the nuts, pushing them in a little. Place in the freezer for at least six hours or ideally overnight until frozen and firm. 5. Lift the frozen slab out of the pan and slice into 15 bars. Line a baking sheet with baking paper. 6. Add the chocolate and coconut oil to a heatproof bowl set over a pan of barely simmering water and heat until just melted, stirring to combine. Alternatively, heat in a microwave on the lowest setting in 30-second blasts, stirring between each, until just melted. If you have a cooking thermometer, the chocolate is ready when it reads 45 to 50°C (113 to 122°F). 7. Working one at a time, submerge the bars in the melted chocolate, using two forks to turn them. Lift out of the bowl using the forks, allowing the excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl, then transfer them to the lined sheet. Once all the bars are coated in chocolate, return the sheet to the freezer or fridge for at least 15 minutes until the chocolate is set. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks or freezer for up to four weeks, but I assure you they won't last long! Note: If you can't find roasted peanuts, simply use unroasted peanuts and roast them in the oven at 180°/160°fan/350°F for eight to 12 minutes until golden. Then use in the recipe as specified.

Yahoo

an hour ago

• Yahoo

Best Drinks for Kids: Mighties Lunch Chill Pill Drinks

Mighties launches Chill Pill Drinks for kids, new functional beverages made to support calm, focus, and hydration. Sugar-free and designed for children 3+ Tampa, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mighties has announced the launch of its latest product line: Lunch Chill Pill Drinks, a new entry into the growing market of protein drinks for kids. Designed to offer both taste and nutrition, the drinks are aimed at health-conscious parents seeking convenient options for school lunches and busy schedules. The launch comes amid a broader shift in how families approach children's hydration and wellness. As sugary sodas and artificial juices fall out of favor, parents are turning to functional beverages that double as the best supplements for kids, supporting energy, focus, and growth, without compromising on flavor. What Is Mighties Lunch Chill Pill?Mighties Lunch Chill Pill is a powdered drink mix formulated for children aged 3 and up, designed to be stirred into 8 to 12 ounces of water or milk and consumed as a functional beverage. Sold in single-serve stick packs, the product contains no added sugar, no artificial sweeteners, and no artificial dyes. It is free from common allergens, including gluten, dairy, and soy, and is also non-GMO. Chill Pill does not contain melatonin or sedatives. Instead, its calming properties are attributed to a blend of nutrients and plant-based compounds. Key ingredients include: KSM-66 Ashwagandha: A clinically studied adaptogen that may help regulate stress and support emotional balance. Magnesium: Essential for relaxation, nerve function, and healthy sleep cycles. L-Tryptophan: An amino acid that supports serotonin production, which plays a role in mood and sleep regulation. Lemon Balm Extract: Traditionally used to reduce restlessness and promote calm. Passionflower Extract: Known for its calming effects and use in supporting mental relaxation. L-Theanine: An amino acid associated with improved focus and reduced anxiety. Glycine: Supports calmness and cognitive function. Vitamin B6 & B12: Help reduce fatigue and support healthy brain function. The product is intended to be used either daily or as needed, and Mighties suggests giving it to children approximately 60 minutes before bedtime. However, due to its stimulant-free and non-sedative composition, it can also be consumed at other times of day, including during the afternoon or after school. Each stick pack is designed for convenience, requiring no measuring, and the full-size package includes 30 sticks, which equates to 30 to 60 servings depending on the water-to-powder ratio used. The beverage is naturally sweetened with organic stevia and is available in flavors such as Apple Punch and Berry Lemonade. According to Mighties, the drink supports focus, emotional regulation, relaxation, and a more restful bedtime wind-down. Parents who have tried the product have noted observed improvements in their children's evening routines. One parent noted, 'We've seen fewer evening meltdowns and a smoother transition to bedtime since starting Chill Pill.' Another said, 'It's great to finally find a drink with calming benefits that doesn't rely on sugar or medication.' While these are anecdotal impressions, they align with the product's positioning as a clean-label, functional hydration option within the growing market of protein drinks for kids and the best supplements for kids. Why Parents Are Loving Mighties Chill Pill Drinks? Mighties Lunch Chill Pill Drinks are developed with children's nutritional and hydration needs in mind. The product incorporates specific features intended to provide a balanced and convenient beverage option for young consumers. Parents have responded positively to Mighties Chill Pill Drinks, citing their practical qualities and formulation as key reasons for approval. The product's flavors, such as Apple Punch and Berry Lemonade, have been noted for appealing to children's palates without being overly sweet. The balance of natural sweetness, achieved through organic stevia, helps provide a pleasant taste without reliance on added sugars or artificial sweeteners. In addition to taste, the packaging has drawn favorable comments. The single-serve stick packs offer a convenient, mess-free option that fits easily into lunchboxes and backpacks. This portability allows parents to provide a functional beverage that children can prepare themselves with minimal supervision, making it suitable for busy family routines. Importantly, the product's ingredient transparency is appreciated. The absence of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives aligns with many parents' desire for cleaner, simpler products for their children. This approach also means that the drink avoids common artificial additives often found in conventional kids' beverages. While parents' remarks reflect individual experiences, many appreciate the combination of functional benefits and practical design that Mighties Chill Pill Drinks offer. These factors contribute to the drink's growing acceptance among families seeking healthier hydration options without compromising ease of use or taste. Top Features of Mighties Lunch Chill Pill Drinks Mighties Lunch Chill Pill Drinks are developed with children's nutritional and hydration needs in mind. The product incorporates specific features intended to provide a balanced and convenient beverage option for young consumers. Age-appropriate for kids: Chill Pill is formulated for children aged 3 years and older, with ingredient selections and dosages aligned with this age group's nutritional needs. The product excludes compounds that are generally not recommended for young children. Portion-controlled: Each stick contains a pre-measured serving size, which simplifies preparation and helps maintain consistent dosing. No caffeine or high sugar overload: The product contains no caffeine and no added sugars. Sweetening is provided by organic stevia, a zero-calorie natural sweetener, minimizing risks related to sugar consumption and stimulant effects. Refreshing and suitable for meals or snacks: The powder dissolves in water or milk and is available in flavors such as Apple Punch and Berry Lemonade, designed to be mild and acceptable for children's palates. Best Times to Enjoy Chill Pill Drinks Mighties Lunch Chill Pill Drinks offer flexibility in consumption, fitting easily into various daily routines for children. Their convenient single-serve packaging makes them a practical addition to lunchboxes, providing a hydration option that complements midday meals. The drink's formulation, free from caffeine and added sugars, supports calmness and focus, making it suitable for consumption after active play. Many parents find Chill Pill helpful as a post-play refreshment, aiding in relaxation without overstimulation. Additionally, Chill Pill can be paired with after-school snacks to support emotional balance and ease the transition to homework or quiet time. These moments align well with the product's functional profile, allowing it to be enjoyed throughout the day according to individual needs. How Chill Pill Stands Out Among Other Kids' Drinks Mighties Lunch Chill Pill differentiates itself within the crowded market of children's beverages through a clear focus on taste and user experience rather than relying heavily on marketing claims. The product offers unique flavors such as Apple Punch and Berry Lemonade that are carefully designed to complement typical school lunches, emphasizing enjoyment without overwhelming sweetness. This focus on kid-friendly flavor profiles aims to make hydration more appealing during mealtimes and snack breaks. From a parent's perspective, Chill Pill presents a straightforward brand image that prioritizes transparency and simplicity. Packaging is designed for ease of use and portability, making it practical for busy families managing active lifestyles. This balance between child appeal and parent-friendly branding positions Chill Pill as a functional yet enjoyable drink that fits seamlessly into everyday routines, distinguishing it from many competitors that emphasize marketing hype over user experience. Where to Buy Mighties Lunch Chill Pill Drinks Parents interested in Mighties Lunch Chill Pill Drinks can purchase them directly from the official brand website at The product is also available on Amazon, offering convenience for those who prefer shopping on that platform. Additionally, select health and wellness retailers may carry Mighties products, so it's advisable to check with local stores or their online counterparts for availability. Conclusion: A Cool Companion for Every Kid's Lunch Mighties Chill Pill Drinks combine purposeful ingredients with easy, portion-controlled packaging to support calm, focus, and hydration, without sugar, caffeine, or artificial additives. With flavors designed to pair with everyday meals, it offers a simple, functional option that parents can feel good about. Whether it's lunchtime, after school, or winding down for bed, let your kids chill with a drink made just for them. FAQs – Mighties Lunch Chill Pill Drinks for Kids Q1. What are Mighties Lunch Chill Pill Drinks?Mighties Chill Pill Drinks are powdered beverage sticks designed for children aged 3 and above. Mixed with water or milk, each serving contains amino acids, adaptogens, and vitamins that support calm, focus, and relaxation without added sugar, caffeine, melatonin, or artificial ingredients. Q2. Are Mighties Chill Pill Drinks healthy for kids?Chill Pill Drinks are formulated with child-safe ingredients including magnesium, L-tryptophan, and KSM-66 ashwagandha. They contain no added sugar, artificial sweeteners, or preservatives, and are free from common allergens. The formulation supports emotional balance and hydration using a clean-label approach. Q3. Can kids drink Chill Pill every day?Yes, the product is intended for daily or as-needed use. It is stimulant-free and contains no sedatives or melatonin, making it appropriate for regular use, including at school, during the day, or before bedtime. Q4. What age group are Mighties Chill Pill Drinks suitable for?Mighties Chill Pill Drinks are suitable for children ages 3 and older. The ingredients and dosages are carefully selected to align with the nutritional and functional needs of young children. Q5. Where can I buy Mighties Chill Pill Drinks?They are available for purchase on the official brand website at and on Amazon. Some health-focused online retailers may also carry the product. Q6. Do these drinks contain artificial sweeteners or preservatives?No, Chill Pill Drinks are sweetened with organic stevia and contain no artificial sweeteners, preservatives, dyes, or synthetic additives. They are also gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free. Q7. Are these drinks school-safe?Yes, Chill Pill Drinks contain no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, gluten, or soy. Their caffeine-free, sugar-free formulation and single-serve packaging make them suitable for lunchboxes and safe for school environments. CONTACT: Company Name: Mighties Contact Person: Mighties Support Email: support@ Contact Number: +1800-961-4085 Website: Country: United StatesSign in to access your portfolio

USA Today

2 hours ago

• USA Today

Medicaid handouts only create dependency. Able-bodied adults should work.

Does Medicaid need an overhaul? Does Republicans' proposed $800 billion cuts go too far – or not far enough? Readers respond in USA TODAY's Opinion Forum. With the deadline for President Donald Trump and Republicans' "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" on the horizon, Americans are turning their attention to a major provision of the budget bill: changes to Medicaid. The bill calls for sweeping changes, including cuts of nearly $800 billion to the program, a mandatory work requirement of 80 hours per month, and an overhaul of the current Medicaid and Medicare systems – consolidating them for the purpose of centralized enrollment. Additional changes include banning federal funding for gender-affirming care and transitioning procedures and reducing the amount of federal funding allotted to states for noncitizens. As Congress debates these provisions before a final vote in the Senate, Americans are sounding off – largely in support of the program. More than 71 million Americans benefit from Medicaid, and new polls from KFF Health found 83% of respondents have a favorable view of Medicaid. More than half of respondents who are enrolled in Medicaid say changes to the program will make it "very difficult" to afford medications (68%), see a health care provider (59%) or get alternate insurance coverage (56%). A June 11 Quinnipiac University poll found half of American voters polled said funding for Medicaid should go up, not down, while an Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll released June 16 found that 50% of Americans think we spend too little on Medicaid. But we wanted to hear from you, our USA TODAY readers, directly. We asked what changes, if any, you want to see to the program and how Medicaid has impacted your life or the lives of those you know. Do the proposed cuts go too far? Or not far enough? Here's what you told us for our Opinion Forum. I couldn't have made it as a mom ‒ or cancer survivor ‒ without Medicaid As a Stage 3 breast cancer survivor, mother to a son with profound disabilities and a full-time working member of society, I've had to navigate the unimaginable. Without Medicaid, I could not have managed any of it. The program covers our son's in-home care, and it gave me the ability to focus on both my treatment and career. For families like mine, Medicaid is not a luxury ‒ it is the foundation that holds everything together. Proposed cuts threaten the care millions rely on. We must protect Medicaid so parents are not forced to choose among their health, their job and their children's needs. — Caroline Johnson, Louisville, Kentucky Able-bodied people should be working. Entitlements weren't meant to last forever. As I understand it, the only people who would be cut from Medicaid are able-bodied adults who would need to work a minimum number of hours a week to keep receiving it. I don't believe that disabled people, older folks and children would be affected. Also, illegal migrants would be kept off, because American taxpayers are not responsible for paying their way. We have enough American citizens who need help. Those who are not supposed to get these entitlements should be cut. These entitlement programs were never meant to be a way of life. They were supposed to be a safety net only for those who really needed them. Able-bodied adults should work. There is pride in working for what you need or want. Handouts only cause dependency, which is not good for anyone. Every citizen who is able should strive to be independent. The same should go for food stamps. It should only be for the really needy disabled, elderly and children with low incomes. — Renee Bertoni, Holley, New York Real government waste is MAGA's excess I am a retired Health and Human Services Department worker. I think this administration is so shortsighted about Medicaid and food assistance cuts for working families and individuals. If low-income people and working families have inadequate food and no medical coverage, it hinders their ability to work and function in society. All people deserve medical coverage and nutritious foods! I don't think I will ever support Republicans again. This is supposed to be a government for the people, by the people and of the people. These MAGA supporters are all lacking in human decency. Yes, I believe they will cut more and more because they are focused on self-indulgence. Increase taxes for the wealthy who have too much and know that "trickle-down economics" is just a buzz phrase. It doesn't work. Big cuts were made to the federal work force with no strategy and no concern for talented and dedicated employees, along with lots of publicity for fake fraud claims that didn't exist. The minions are hard at work trying to sell the public on their distorted strategy: more for them and less for everyone else. Let's think about the waste of the Trump military parade. That's what's shameful. — Joyce Schulz, Tawas City, Michigan As an ER doctor, I saw what cuts to Medicaid would cost us all As an emergency physician, I cared for uninsured patients who were signed up for Medicaid insurance in the emergency department. Medicaid health insurance allowed these patients to follow up with primary care doctors and providers who otherwise could not afford to care for uninsured people. Studies show that adding Medicaid insurance saves lives. And taking away Medicaid insurance leads to worse health outcomes. I am very concerned that any cuts to Medicaid insurance would lead to avoidable illness and even death for newly uninsured patients. Primary care physicians and specialists cannot afford to care for patients who lose their Medicaid health care coverage. Also, rural hospitals and rural clinics would lose a significant portion of their financial support from Medicaid. Primary care providers and rural hospitals would be forced to close their doors, leaving uninsured patients without access to care. I am afraid that Republican politicians will choose tax cuts for the rich over Medicaid health insurance for the poor. I think that Republican politicians should have their own government health insurance taken away from them. Why should taxpayers pay for the health insurance of these well-off Republicans who are voting to take away Medicaid from poor people? — Gary Young, Sacramento, California I've worked hard to get everything I have. Democrats don't seem to see people like me. I don't see the problem with having work requirements. If you can work, why not? As a taxpayer, I pay for my own medical insurance. I am single and have no dependents. I have no fault with us having a Medicaid program for the elderly, children and disabled, but that should be it unless you are working and need a short-term helping hand. I have been working full-time since I was 22, so I don't understand people having an issue with a work requirement to get medical coverage. I think we have to cut spending across the board. I hear Democrats talking about taking things away, but I don't seem to hear anything from them about how to cut spending. We are over $36 trillion in debt. If spending is not controlled, our country could go bankrupt, and then no one would have any programs to use. What is the Democrats' plan to get the debt under control? They had the past four years to do it, and you see where we are. I'm tired of the talk about these cuts going to the billionaires. We don't know for sure where it's going, and you can't understand how tired of this rhetoric people are. Additionally, I would like to see the cuts to the U.S. Agency for International Development and Department of Education all codified so these programs do not exist. There seems to have been a bit of waste and abuse over many years that needs to be dealt with. I make under $70,000 a year, so I have worked hard to get where I am. I was a Democrat for over 35 years, and about five years ago, I went Republican, as parties seem to have switched. I believe that the Democrat Party is full of elitists who feel we poor peons will do what they tell us, rather than realizing a lot of peons can think for ourselves and should not be condescended to and not told we are bad peons if we disagree with them. — Teresa Loy, Tucson, Arizona My brother was saved by Medicaid. Many more would die without it. My brother had AIDS/HIV and AIDS-related cancer. He was too sick to work and relied on Medicaid for all his medical benefits, both physical and mental. He eventually worked for the nonprofit Hope and Help in Orlando. He was a mentor to others, a champion, an activist, an orator and a published writer. He died in August 2020. All his efforts and the efforts of many would die in vain without their medication that was available through Medicaid. I'm extremely worried. The effects aren't self-contained, and the negative effects would permeate into an already strained system. Medical insurance is unaffordable in this country's economy, and it only gets worse. The Republicans need to vote according to the wants and needs of their constituents and reinstall empathy in their party. Maybe that will resonate and 'trickle down.' We have to limit tax cuts for the wealthiest. And here's a novel idea: Let's go back to a time when employers paid for employees' health care and pensions. Those two items can't be supported by today's salaries. — Karen O'Donnell, Lake Mary, Florida