Subject: Medicare Atrocity: Larry, so now we have prescription drug benefits in 2006, courtesy of the new Medicare bill. I hope the individuals and groups who foisted this atrocity upon us are pleased with their work. I certainly am not. Although I do not believe my costs will be changed substantially, many will find their expenses increased dramatically, particularly those in the “donut hole.” Traditionally Medicare has flaws, but it has worked well. Let’s improve and extend it, not farm out prescription coverage to private firms. Why should we trust private insurance carriers to keep costs down while retaining quality coverage? These are the same companies that have raised our rates annually in the double digits while the cost of living has gone up no more the 2-3 percent. As for AARP, our supposed lobbying group, it sold us out. People in the government, lobbying groups, and health care insurance providers need to remember that we may be seniors, but we are far from stupid. We have long memories. And members of Congress also should be aware that we vote. FR