With all of the gridlock in our Federal Congress, I wish someone would come up with an amendment to our Constitution to block all members of Congress from running for re-election if the Federal Budget is not in balance and the deficit isn't reduced by 5 percent. Also add in that all Congressional pensions be cancelled due to their spending habits at least until the deficit disappears.

Our Homer and Kachemak Firefighters are our community heros and warriors. Everytime they go out on a call they lay their lives on the line as they did Sunday, Nov. 13.

I have to believe it was the hand of God that kept them safe from the fire and resulting explosion of my fuel tank. With the engineers warning of low water and changing water tankers, somehow they all laid low and were saved from the tremendous blast that followed.

The situation could have resulted in death of major injuries and I thank God that I don't have to live with either.

Just wanted to give a shout out to all the dedicated public safety professionals in our community. In the past  week I have witnessed 3 accidents. In the blowing wind and freezing weather these brave men and women were doing their jobs to provide comfort and care in awful circumstances. I sleep better at night knowing that should I need someone in an emergency these unselfish people would be there to help. Our community owes them all a great deal of gratitude. God bless you all in the upcoming holiday season.

Issues faced by poor and homeless children are a major concern all over the U.S.  In spending a few winters near Phoenix, Ariz., they had a school for over 400 homeless children where they did not have to be subjected to the ridicule of children of means.