Sunday, July 31, 2011

Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security face fundamental threats


THIS IS AN EMERGENCY! ANY of the proposed "solutions" to raise the debt ceiling will slash Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefits!

The Seattle Times reports: "The most difficult question facing [President] Obama may come down to how much farther to the right he is willing to move when it comes to enforcing calls for deeper cuts, particularly to Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, and for eliminating special tax breaks and exemptions. The White House and lawmakers agree in general that a bipartisan commission should be formed to explore those dicier propositions. Obama and lawmakers must now agree on what type of 'trigger' to establish to force deficit reductions if the commission process were to fail.

From the San Francisco Chronicle: The Treasury Department has said the U.S. will breach its borrowing limit and run out of options for avoiding default if the $14.3 trillion debt ceiling isn't raised by Aug. 2. [Senate Majority Leader Harry] Reid said his plan aims to attract bipartisan support because it includes no tax increases and would cut spending by the same amount as the [2.4 $Trillion] debt-limit boost.

MSNBC  explains: A newly established committee would have to find another $1.4 trillion to 1.6 trillion in cuts before that debt limit would have to be increased again by about the end of the year or early next year. That would last through the 2012 election. But the second part is a big sticking point. If the committee can’t find the cuts, then one agreement being talked about is triggering automatic spending cuts across the board....

What does this mean for you? Never in their history have Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security faced such immediate, fundamental threats. These programs actually save taxpayers money in the mid- to long-term and save lives by avoiding expensive and deadly diseases. Unfortunately, ill-informed and unconcerned politicians in Washington remain intent on slashing them rather than exploring fair, sensible, and more effective options. Closing loopholes. Allowing prescription drug price negotiations under Medicare part D. Letting the Bush tax giveaways expire. Lifting the cap on FICA taxes to reflect astronomical income increases.

The current equation reads: all cuts + no revenues = devastation. With your support, KeepOurPromise will work to protect Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. We need your help. We need your help now! Contributions have been coming in, but not enough to cover our expanding activities. (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible).

On July 19, KeepOurPromise helped organize an emergency briefing on Capitol Hill with members of Congress, staff, and experts.

On July 20, we met with 85 Congressional offices and organized a national call-in day with 1000s of concerned Americans. We told Senators and House members that cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security benefits would hurt tens of millions of Americans. Jobs will be lost. Economic growth will suffer. We told them to close loopholes, not slash benefits.

On July 21, David Shuster reported that Congressional Progressive Caucus Co-Chair Congressman Raul Grijalva took our message to Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi. According to Shuster's comments on Countdown with Keith Olbermann, Rep. Grijalva warned Rep. Pelosi that House progressives refuse to follow President Obama's lead on cuts to Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Not only that, but her own leadership position "would be challenged."

On July 22, eighty House members joined Rep. Grijalva and the other CPC Co-Chair Congressman Keith Ellison in a letter to Rep. Pelosi which reads in part:

"We are united as Democrats in saying that it’s time to stand up to the Republican hostage-taking. We will not be forced to vote for a 'final agreement' that we do not agree to--and that the American people do not agree to. We stand united with you in insisting that benefit cuts for working families, our seniors, children, and people with disabilities must be off the table, and we stand united with you in fighting for millions of Americans who need Democrats to be firmly on their side."

On July 25 our allies rallied outside the National Social Security offices.

On July 26 we helped organize meetings in 435 Congressional District Offices.

On July 27 KeepOurPromise organizers and allies were back on Capitol Hill. We met with 80 Congressional offices, and again led 1,000s of people nation-wide in a call in day. We demanded that our politicians keep our promise between generations and among all Americans to preserve, protect--and even expand and improve--Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security.

This battle is far from over. Moving forward, we will work with our allies and members of Congress to protect and expand--not slash--our safety net. We're turning back the malign designs of the "Denial Caucus"--the Tea Party supporters in Congress--who are driving to defund and destroy Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. We cannot Keep Our Promise without your help. Will you contribute to help us?

We're helping to convene a series of Congressional briefings and hearings. We're launching a media strategy to inform and mobilize the public, and holding call-in days to jam the White House and Congressional switchboards. We're explaining that Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are not "broke," and do not add to the debt or deficit. We should cut corruption and corporate profiteering--not benefits. To control costs and provide the best outcomes, we need Expanded, Improved Medicare for All. Help us Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security.

We're working with members of Congress and staffers, the Black, Progressive and Hispanic Caucus, as well as progressive, faith, patients' rights and civil rights leaders and organizations, unions, and more. We convene weekly action meetings to plan lobby days, call-in days, Congressional hearings, town hall meetings, a media strategy and special events. We're holding a massive citizen's lobby day July 20th. We're meeting with 85 members of Congress with a simple message: No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security benefits. Let Medicare negotiate with big drug companies on prices. Improve and expand Medicare--don't cut it! Help us Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security.

We need your help now!
Please Contribute here. (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible).

If you can't contribute, please share the above article with all your friends, and post the blurb below to Facebook and Tweet to your followers:

Fight Cuts to #Medicaid #Medicare, and #SocialSecurity Benefits! This is NOT the United States of Austerity! http://bit.ly/keepourpromise #p2

Friday, July 29, 2011

Re: We need EVERYone this Sunday to walk for choice!

More information: http://www.summerofchoice.com/summer-celebration-of-choice/kick-off-walk.cfm

Meet at the north intersection of Wisteria Drive & Executive Park Circle at 1 PM on Sunday, July 31!

We need EVERYone to stand up for Choice Sunday

From Maryland NOW President Linda Mahoney:

We need EVERYone to make a special effort to show up on Sunday for the Walk in Germantown.  Even if they can't do the Walk, they can bring their lawn chairs and demonstrate.  Also, I am requesting all the Maryland NOW leaders to commit to at least 2 hours at the clinic, either Monday night (you could call an MCNOW meeting at the clinic) or Friday night.  Edith and I will be there starting @ 7:30 both days, and Thursday morning, as well as Sunday.  We are bringing NOW rounds with us and can leave you a couple if there are folks who can do the "Peaceful Presence" during the week.
 
There is provision for transport from the Shady Grove Metro station, for those who need a lift.
 
The address for Dr. Carhart's clinic:
13233 Executive Park Drive in Germantown, Maryland
 
To sign up for a shift, please go to www.summerofchoice.com or contact NOW Field Organizer Anita Lederer at fieldorg@now.org.

KeepOurPromise met with 80 Congressional offices July 27th

Thanks to your support, KeepOurPromise is protecting Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Keep us working for you!

On July 19, KeepOurPromise helped organize an emergency briefing on Capitol Hill with members of Congress, staff, and experts.

On July 20, we met with 85 Congressional offices and organized a national call-in day.

On July 21, David Shuster reported that Congressional Progressive Caucus Co-Chair Congressman Raul Grijalva took our message to Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi. According to Shuster's comments on Countdown with Keith Olbermann, Rep. Grijalva warned Rep. Peolosi that House progressives refuse to follow President Obama's lead on cuts to Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Not only that, but her own leadership position "would be challenged."

On July 22, eighty House members joined Rep. Grijalva and the other CPC Co-Chair Congressman Keith Ellison in a letter to Rep. Pelosi which reads in part:

"We are united as Democrats in saying that it’s time to stand up to the Republican hostage-taking. We will not be forced to vote for a 'final agreement' that we do not agree to--and that the American people do not agree to. We stand united with you in insisting that benefit cuts for working families, our seniors, children, and people with disabilities must be off the table, and we stand united with you in fighting for millions of Americans who need Democrats to be firmly on their side."

This battle is far from over. Moving forward, we will work with our allies and members of Congress to protect and expand--not slash--our safety net. We're turning back the malign designs of the "Denial Caucus"--the Tea Party supporters in Congress--who are driving to defund and destroy Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. We cannot Keep Our Promise without your help. Will you contribute to help us?

KeepOurPromise organizers and allies met with 80 Congressional offices July 27th, and led 1,000s of people nation-wide in a call in day. We told Senators and House members that cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security benefits would hurt tens of millions of Americans. Jobs will be lost. Economic growth will suffer. We demand that our politicians keep our promise between generations and among all Americans to preserve, protect--and even expand and improve--Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security.

We need your help now! Contributions have been coming in, but not enough to cover our expanding activities. (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible).

We're helping to convene a series of Congressional briefings and hearings. We're launching a media strategy to inform and mobilize the public, and holding call-in days to jam the White House and Congressional switchboards. We're explaining that Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are not "broke," and do not add to the debt or deficit. We should cut corruption and corporate profiteering--not benefits. To control costs and provide the best outcomes, we need Expanded, Improved Medicare for All. Help us Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security.

We're working with members of Congress and staffers, the Black, Progressive and Hispanic Caucus, as well as progressive, faith, patients' rights and civil rights leaders and organizations, unions, and more. We convene weekly action meetings to plan lobby days, call-in days, Congressional hearings, town hall meetings, a media strategy and special events. We're holding a massive citizen's lobby day July 20th. We're meeting with 85 members of Congress with a simple message: No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security benefits. Let Medicare negotiate with big drug companies on prices. Improve and expand Medicare--don't cut it! Help us Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security.

We need your help now!
Please Contribute here. (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible).

If you can't contribute, please share the above article with all your friends, and post the blurb below to Facebook and Tweet:

Fight Cuts to #Medicaid #Medicare, and #SocialSecurity Benefits! This is NOT the United States of Austerity! http://bit.ly/keepourpromise #p2

Thursday, July 28, 2011

We met with 80 Congressional offices yesterday, July 27th

We met with 80 Congressional offices yesterday, July 27th, and led 1,000s of people nation-wide in a call in day. We told Senators and House members that cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security benefits would hurt tens of millions of Americans. Jobs will be lost. Economic growth will suffer. All Americans will endure hardship and pain if these cuts happen. Help us make sure those cuts don't happen. We demand that our politicians keep our promise between generations and among all Americans to preserve, protect--and even expand and improve--Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security.  Help us Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security.

We need your help now! Contributions have been coming in, but not enough to cover our expanding activities:
https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6J4WAVQVMEWQ 
(Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible).

More info.: http://keepourpromise.org/

We're helping to convene a series of Congressional briefings and hearings. We're launching a media strategy to inform and mobilize the public, and holding call-in days to jam the White House and Congressional switchboards. We're explaining that Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are not "broke," and do not add to the debt or deficit. We should cut corruption and corporate profiteering--not benefits. To control costs and provide the best outcomes, we need Expanded, Improved Medicare for All. Help us Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security.

We're working with members of Congress and staffers, the Black, Progressive and Hispanic Caucus, as well as progressive, faith, patients' rights and civil rights leaders and organizations, unions, and more. We convene weekly action meetings to plan lobby days, call-in days, Congressional hearings, town hall meetings, a media strategy and special events. We're holding a massive citizen's lobby day July 20th. We're meeting with 85 members of Congress with a simple message: No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security. Let Medicare negotiate with big drug companies on prices. Improve and expand Medicare--don't cut it! Help us Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security.

https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6J4WAVQVMEWQ  (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible).

Monday, July 25, 2011

Re: STOP THE CUTS TO SOCIAL SECURITY, MEDICARE AND MEDICAID


AFL-CIO and Progressive Democrats of America Events


Your help and support is needed!  Be part of the mobilization to STOP THE CUTS TO SOCIAL SECURITY, MEDICARE AND MEDICAID on TODAY, JULY 25th  AT 5:30 PM AT THE SOCIAL SECURITY COMPLEX IN WOODLAWN in Baltimore!

HELP bring national attention to our protest to say:  STOP THE CUTS TO SOCIAL SECURITY, MEDICARE AND MEDICAID.  Send a strong message to Congress.

Please mobilize your members, staff, family and friends to be part of one of our largest demonstrations.  These cuts will have a negative impact on our total community.

Location : Social Security Complex, 6401 Security Blvd., Baltimore, MD
Contact : Fred D. Jason, Jr., President, MD/DC AFL-CIO, (410) 318-8537


Tell the House Negotiate Prescription Drug Benefits Under Medicare Part D

Wednesday, July 27, 2011 at 10am, Longworth Cafeteria

According to economist Joseph Stiglitz the U.S. can save $1 trillion in 10 years by negotiating the prescription drug benefit in Medicare; this is not a tax this is simply applying standard business practices and saving the taxpayers money.

Join us as we lobby the House to protect the benefits in Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. We have prepared packets which show price comparisons between common drugs purchased for the Veterans Administration and Medicare; Medicare often pays up to 48% more for the exact same drugs.

Click here to RSVP.

Can't join us for the lobby day? Sign the petition.

Call your Representative in the House: 202-224-3121

Call your Senators: 888-907-1485

Date: Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Location: Longworth Cafeteria (Basement), Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC
Contact: Andrea Miller (443) 878-2071

STOP THE CUTS TO SOCIAL SECURITY, MEDICARE AND MEDICAID

AFL-CIO and Progressive Democrats of America Events


Your help and support is needed!  Be part of the mobilization to STOP THE CUTS TO SOCIAL SECURITY, MEDICARE AND MEDICAID on TODAY, JULY 25th  AT 5:30 PM AT THE SOCIAL SECURITY COMPLEX IN WOODLAWN in Baltimore!

HELP bring national attention to our protest to say:  STOP THE CUTS TO SOCIAL SECURITY, MEDICARE AND MEDICAID.  Send a strong message to Congress.

Please mobilize your members, staff, family and friends to be part of one of our largest demonstrations.  These cuts will have a negative impact on our total community.

Location : Social Security Complex, 6401 Security Blvd., Baltimore, MD
Contact : Fred D. Jason, Jr., President, MD/DC AFL-CIO, (410) 318-8537


Tell the House Negotiate Prescription Drug Benefits Under Medicare Part D

Wednesday, July 27, 2011 at 10am, Longworth Cafeteria

According to economist Joseph Stiglitz the U.S. can save $1 trillion in 10 years by negotiating the prescription drug benefit in Medicare; this is not a tax this is simply applying standard business practices and saving the taxpayers money.

Join us as we lobby the House to protect the benefits in Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. We have prepared packets which show price comparisons between common drugs purchased for the Veterans Administration and Medicare; Medicare often pays up to 48% more for the exact same drugs.

Click here to RSVP.

Can't join us for the lobby day? Sign the petition.

Call your Representative in the House: 202-224-3121

Call your Senator in the Senate: 888-907-1485

Date: Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Location: Longworth Cafeteria (Basement), Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC
Contact: Andrea Miller (443) 878-2071

Lobby, Call and Fax to Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security


We're making progress in keeping our promise. Now is the time to push harder to save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security

KeepOurPromise is working for you! Please contribute what you can to keep us strong:
https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6J4WAVQVMEWQ

Join us 10 am Wednesday, July 17 in the Rayburn House Cafeteria to lobby Congress to Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security

Tell President Obama to stand strong! No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-456-1111 / 202-456-1414 Fax: 202-456-2461

Tell Your Senators and Representative to protect Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security from any cuts:
http://capwiz.com/pdamerica/callalert/index.tt?alertid=51625501

Tell Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to stand strong! No cuts Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-224-3542 Fax: 202-224-7327

Tell Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell to stand down! No cuts Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-224-2541 Fax: 202-224-2499

Tell House Speaker John Boehner to stand down! No cuts Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-225-0600 Fax: 202-225-5117

Tell House Majority Leader Eric Cantor to stand down! No cuts Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-225-4000 Fax: 202-225-0011

Tell House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi to stand strong! No cuts Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-225-0100 Fax: 202-225-4188

Tell DNC Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz to stand strong! No cuts Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-225-7931 Fax: 202-226-2052

KeepOurPromise is working for you! Please contribute what you can to keep us strong:
https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6J4WAVQVMEWQ

On July 19, KeepOurPromise helped organize an emergency briefing on Capitol Hill with members of Congress, staff, and experts. On July 20, we met with 85 Congressional offices. On July 21, David Shuster reported that Congressional Progressive Caucus Co-Chair Congressman Raul Grijalva took our message to Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi. According to Shuster's comments on Countdown with Keith Olbermann, Rep. Grijalva warned Rep. Pelosi that House progressives refuse to follow President Obama's lead on cuts to Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Not only that, but her own leadership position "would be challenged." On July 22, eighty House members joined Rep. Grijalva and the other CPC Co-Chair Congressman Keith Ellison in a letter to Rep. Pelosi which reads in part:

"We are united as Democrats in saying that it’s time to stand up to the Republican hostage-taking. We will not be forced to vote for a 'final agreement' that we do not agree to--and that the American people do not agree to. We stand united with you in insisting that benefit cuts for working families, our seniors, children, and people with disabilities must be off the table, and we stand united with you in fighting for millions of Americans who need Democrats to be firmly on their side."

Thanks to your support, KeepOurPromise is protecting Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Unfortunately, the battle is far from over. Moving forward, we hope to meet with 100 members of Congress July 27th to ask them to join the fight on our side. We will work with friendly members of Congress and pressure other members not to sacrifice our safety net in any political deal. We're working to turn back the malign designs of the "Denial Caucus"--the Tea Party supporters in Congress--who are driving to defund and destroy Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Let's be clear. Thanks to your support, we've met with members of Congress to gain their support. We cannot Keep Our Promise without your help. Will you contribute to help us?

Proposed cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security benefits would hurt tens millions of Americans. It would also devastate countless hospitals, medical practices, retirement communities, clinics, and the people they serve. All will endure hardship and pain if the cuts happen. We're fighting back with our Emergency Coalition to Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. We've created the website KeepOurPromise.org to empower this critically important effort. We demand that our politicians keep our promise between generations and among all Americans to preserve, protect--and even expand and improve--Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security.
Please contribute whatever you can to help. (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible) 

We're setting up a media strategy to inform and mobilize the general public on these issues, and planning call-in days to jam the White House and Congressional switchboards with calls.

We're explaining that Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are not "broke," and do not add to the debt or deficit. We should cut corruption and corporate profiteering--not benefits. To control costs and provide the best outcomes, need Expanded, Improved Medicare for All (single payer healthcare).

 We're working with members of Congress and staffers, the Black, Progressive and Hispanic Caucus, as well as progressive, faith, patients' rights and civil rights leaders and organizations, unions, and more. We convene weekly action meetings to plan lobby days, call-in days, Congressional hearings, town hall meetings, a media strategy and special events.
Contribute now to Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security.



We're holding a massive citizen's lobby day July 27th. We're meeting with members of Congress with a simple message: No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security. Let Medicare negotiate with big drug companies on prices. Improve and expand Medicare--don't cut it! We're holding events nation-wide with our allies to commemorate the anniversary of Medicare at the end of this month, as well as Vigils at Congressional offices. The first hearing in the series is scheduled for July 19 in the Rayburn House Office Building. It will focus on the impact of proposed cuts on people in need--and what the American People don't know about proposed cuts.


Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security remain at risk. Will you help us prevail? Contribute here. (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible).

Saturday, July 23, 2011

Thanks to your support, KeepOurPromise is protecting Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security



On July 19, KeepOurPromise helped organize an emergency briefing on Capitol Hill with members of Congress, staff, and experts. On July 20, we met with 85 Congressional offices. On July 21, David Schuster reported that Congressional Progressive Caucus Co-Chair Congressman Raul Grijlava took our message to Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi. According to Schuster's comments on Countdown with Keith Olbermann, Rep. Grijalva warned Rep. Peolosi that House progressives refuse to follow President Obama's lead on cuts to Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Not only that, but her own leadership position "would be challenged." On July 22, eighty House members joined Rep. Grijalva and the other CPC Co-Chair Congressman Keith Ellison in a letter to Rep. Pelosi which reads in part:

"We are united as Democrats in saying that it’s time to stand up to the Republican hostage-taking. We will not be forced to vote for a 'final agreement' that we do not agree to--and that the American people do not agree to. We stand united with you in insisting that benefit cuts for working families, our seniors, children, and people with disabilities must be off the table, and we stand united with you in fighting for millions of Americans who need Democrats to be firmly on their side."

Thanks to your support, KeepOurPromise is protecting Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Unfortunately, the battle is far from over. Moving forward, we hope to meet with 100 members of Congress July 25th to ask them to join the fight on our side. We will work with friendly members of Congress and pressure other members not to sacrifice our safety net in any political deal. We're working to turn back the malign designs of the "Denial Caucus"--the Tea Party supporters in Congress--who are driving to defund and destroy Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Let's be clear. Thanks to your support, we've met with members of Congress to gain their support. We cannot Keep Our Promise without your help. Will you contribute to help us?

Proposed cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security benefits would hurt tens millions of Americans. It would also devastate countless hospitals, medical practices, retirement communities, clinics, and the people they serve. All will endure hardship and pain if the cuts happen. We're fighting back with our Emergency Coalition to Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. We've created the website KeepOurPromise.org to empower this critically important effort. We demand that our politicians keep our promise between generations and among all Americans to preserve, protect--and even expand and improve--Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security.
Please contribute whatever you can to help. (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible) 

We're setting up a media strategy to inform and mobilize the general public on these issues, and planning call-in days to jam the White House and Congressional switchboards with calls.

We're explaining that Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are not "broke," and do not add to the debt or deficit. We should cut corruption and corporate profiteering--not benefits. To control costs and provide the best outcomes, need Expanded, Improved Medicare for All (single payer healthcare).

 We're working with members of Congress and staffers, the Black, Progressive and Hispanic Caucus, as well as progressive, faith, patients' rights and civil rights leaders and organizations, unions, and more. We convene weekly action meetings to plan lobby days, call-in days, Congressional hearings, town hall meetings, a media strategy and special events.
Contribute now to Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security.



We're holding a massive citizen's lobby day July 20th. We're meeting with 85 members of Congress with a simple message: No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security. Let Medicare negotiate with big drug companies on prices. Improve and expand Medicare--don't cut it! We're holding events nation-wide with our allies to commemorate the anniversary of Medicare at the end of this month, as well as Vigils at Congressional offices. The first hearing in the series is scheduled for July 19 in the Rayburn House Office Building. It will focus on the impact of proposed cuts on people in need--and what the American People don't know about proposed cuts.


Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security remain at risk. Will you help us prevail? Contribute here. (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible).

Friday, July 22, 2011

Want to Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security?

Want to Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security? http://www.keepourpromise.org met with 85 Congressional offices on 7/20. Help us meet with 100 more next week. Contribute here: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6J4WAVQVMEWQ

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Fight Against Cuts to Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid

Fight Against Cuts to Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid

With talks under way between the White House, Senate, and the House, proposals are on the table to cut Medicaid by $100 billion dollars, raise the Social Security retirement age from 65 to 67, reduce the monthly Social Security check, and possibly raise Medicare premiums. We're convening an emergency coalition to save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security here: http://www.keepourpromise.org

Cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security benefits would hurt tens of millions of Americans. It would also devastate countless hospitals, medical practices, retirement communities, clinics, and the people they serve. Jobs will be lost. Economic growth will suffer. All Americans will endure hardship and pain if these cuts happen. Help us make sure those cuts don't happen.

We demand that our politicians keep our promise between generations and among all Americans to preserve, protect--and even expand and improve--Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security.  Help us Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Visit our website regularly, share it on Facebook, Tweet our articles.

Join us TODAY for an Emergency Briefing: http://www.keepourpromise.org/

Find Out What Congress Isn't Telling You
Tuesday, July 19th 2 to 4 PM
2237 Rayburn House Office Building
Closest Metro: Capitol South Blue/Orange lines

Join us TOMORROW for a Lobby Day:

http://www.keepourpromise.org/index.php/events/icalrepeat.detail/2011/07/20/2/-/dc-lobby-day-and-national-call-in-day

Can't make it to DC? Join our Call-in Day:

http://www.keepourpromise.org/index.php/events/icalrepeat.detail/2011/07/20/4/-/national-call-in-day-save-medicaid-medicare-and-social-security

We're getting support and interest from Congress members John Conyers, Gwen Moore, Barney Frank, Keith Ellison, Rob Andrews, and Senator Bernie Sanders as well as from the NAACP, Urban League, AFL-CIO, SEIU, NOW, and many others. Can we count on your support too? Please read more and consider making a donation to keep us working for you here: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6J4WAVQVMEWQ  Please give $50, $25, $10--whatever you can. We need every one we can get, and every dollar you can spare to continue this fight!

Thank you,

Mike Hersh

Monday, July 18, 2011

Maybe I was naive, or possibly I'm just too impatient?

Maybe I was naive, or possibly I'm just too impatient? I tapped into my
savings to set up a website dedicated to saving Medicare, Medicaid, and
Social Security--counting on the support of those who understand the
terrible damage cuts would cause. Hoping that people would contribute to
support the website. Was I wrong? See and support
http://www.keepourpromise.org/

Sunday, July 17, 2011

U-Liners Tribute to Jerry Garcia July 30th

This is always a fun and spirited evening!  The IOTA Club now has more seating, and a great menu!  Come join in the fun! 


Garcia jpeg larger

 



FARM WORKDAY at the LICKING CREEK BEND FARM Sunday, July 24

Sent on behalf of: LICKING CREEK BEND FARM a sustainably-grown fruit and vegetable farm since 1972

SUMMER, 2011                                    All the news that’s fit to eat

***********************************************************************************************

FARM WORKDAY at the LICKING CREEK BEND FARM

On Sunday, July 24th, we are having a volunteer workday.  It’s a great opportunity to see what and how we grow our veggies and fruit and to lend us a hand.  We offer the option of coming up on Friday or Saturday evening, camp out and work with us on Saturday and Sunday.  We also have limited beds.  Get there by 7 AM!

Our farm is 2 hours from DC near Berkeley Springs, W. VA.  Bring swim suits and towels to swim in the creek.  We’ll feed you.  If interested and for directions, contact esiegel2@igc.org

A few considerations:

1.  You must be in good shape;  bring sunscreen, a large hat, bug spray (although there are no mosquitoes on the farm!); and a water bottle.

2.  The work day starts at 9:00am, so you will need to leave by 7:00am (no later than 7:30am) on Sunday.  If you have room for others, let us know so we can help arrange for carpools.

3.  Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate or be responsible for small children.  

CSA – COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AGRICULTURE – JOIN OUR CSA…
And receive weekly fresh vegetables and fruits straight from our farm.  Our vegetables and fruits are grown to organic standards and are certified.  We also provide some fruits from a local orchard that are IPM raised (minimal pesticide use).  

The concept of a CSA is a partnership between a small local farm and people in a near-by city. It offers an interaction with the farm and we sponsor a visiting day to meet the farm workers and in turn allow the farm workers, who work insanely long hours, to meet the folks who are on the receiving end.  It makes quite a difference – for both the consumer and farmer.  

The CSA offers the weekly seasonal pick from the fields.  The attached calendar approximates what should be available in which months, but it is not always exact as we are dependent on the whim of Mother Nature.  We don't know how much of what will be ready at a given time.  Our membership form is also attached.  Visit our website for a brief history of CSAs and more details about ours.     www.lickingcreekbendfarm.com

Our CSA is divided into 4 sessions.  The next session is August-September, the most plentiful. Right our CSA includes peaches, nectarines, plums, apples, Swiss chard, turnips, cucumbers, squash, basil and our tomatoes (including heirloom varieties) are almost ready.

CSA pick up locations:
Saturdays:      18th and Columbia Rds, NW 9:30am – 1:30pm at our Adams Morgan Farm Market
        14th and Park Rds, NW, 9:30am – 1:30pm at our Columbia Heights Farm Market
        Takoma Park, Maryland,  4:30pm - 9:30pm, address provided with sign up

Tuesdays:    Brookland Metro Station, 4:00pm – 7:00pm Brookland Farmers Market
        Takoma Park, Maryland,  8:30pm - 9:30pm, address provided with sign up

Thursdays:      16th and Q Streets, NW, DCJCC 5:00pm – 6:30pm

For further information contact esiegel2@igc.org ASAP to sign up for Session 2: August – September.

Thanks for your interest and support.  Please let us know ASAP

Saturday, July 16, 2011

Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security



Proposed cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security benefits would hurt tens millions of Americans. It would also devastate countless hospitals, medical practices, retirement communities, clinics, and the people they serve. All will endure hardship and pain if the cuts happen. We're fighting back with our Emergency Coalition to Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. We've created the website KeepOurPromise.org to empower this critically important effort. We demand that our politicians keep our promise between generations and among all Americans to preserve, protect--and even expand and improve--Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security.
Please contribute whatever you can to help. (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible) 

We're setting up a media strategy to inform and mobilize the general public on these issues, and planning call-in days to jam the White House and Congressional switchboards with calls.

We're explaining that Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are not "broke," and do not add to the debt or deficit. We should cut corruption and corporate profiteering--not benefits. To control costs and provide the best outcomes, need Expanded, Improved Medicare for All (single payer healthcare).

 We're working with members of Congress and staffers, the Black, Progressive and Hispanic Caucus, as well as progressive, faith, patients' rights and civil rights leaders and organizations, unions, and more. We convene weekly action meetings to plan lobby days, call-in days, Congressional hearings, town hall meetings, a media strategy and special events.
Contribute now to Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security. (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible).



We're holding a massive citizen's lobby day July 20th. We're meeting with 85 members of Congress with a simple message: No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security. Let Medicare negotiate with big drug companies on prices. Improve and expand Medicare--don't cut it! We're holding events nation-wide with our allies to commemorate the anniversary of Medicare at the end of this month, as well as Vigils at Congressional offices. The first hearing in the series is scheduled for July 19 in the Rayburn House Office Building. It will focus on the impact of proposed cuts on people in need--and what the American People don't know about proposed cuts.


Please contribute now to help us Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security. (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible).

Friday, July 15, 2011

Save the Dream / Save Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid

1. TONIGHT Friday July 15th and ONGOING: Help us Save the Dream in Langley Park
2. Wednesday, July 20th lobby day to Save Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid in Washington, DC
3. Progressive Coalition Meeting 7:30 PM Tuesday, August 9th in Wheaton
4. Support the Montgomery County Progressive Alliance, working for you:
http://bit.ly/mocoprogress

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1. TONIGHT Friday July 15 and ONGOING: Help us Save the Dream

It was a proud day last Spring when the Maryland Legislature passed the Dream Act, a terrific bill to extend in-state tuition to deserving young people. These are kids who've lived in our state, studied hard at our schools, and want nothing more than a chance to contribute to Maryland's economy as college graduates. With the high costs of college, the Dream Act is often their only chance at the American Dream.

There's been a great deal of confusion and misinformation about the Dream Act. It will not cost the state a lot of money. In fact, it would more than pay for itself as our young people learn, work, and contribute in our state. It will not deprive any child of documented parents a spot in our excellent Maryland State Universities. The Dream Act guarantees preference for the children of documented parents.

So why is the Dream Act at risk? A well-funded, largely out-of-state operation is spreading misinformation. They're trying to exploit the Dream Act as a wedge issue for political purposes. They used new, high-tech methods and a huge war chest to generate countless petitions to overturn the Dream Act. It seems the anti-Dreamers have the signatures they need to put this on the ballot, but not so fast! They didn't count on us!

You can help! Volunteers are working together to Defend the Dream. We need you to check the signatures to make sure they're valid. Early indications are that many of them may be questionable at best.

We'll meet this Friday, July 15th from 5 pm to 9 pm at CASA de Maryland 's offices:
8151 15th Avenue, Langley Park, MD 20783
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=8151+15th+Avenue,+Langley+Park,+MD+20783

If you want to live in a Maryland that honors the hard work of all our young people with the opportunity for higher education, please join us!


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2. Join the Progressive Democrats of America's Wednesday, July 20th lobby day in Washington, DC.

Save Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid Lobby Day

Progressive Democrats of America and allies will bring a simple message to Congress:
Don't cut Social Security, Medicare or Medicaid. Let's Medicare negotiate prescription drug prices. Lift the cap so millionaires pay their fair share. End the wars, redirect funds to meet human needs. In honor of Medicare's Anniversary, we want to improve and expand the program, not cut it!

When: Wednesday, July 20. Meet at 10am or 2pm
Where: United Methodist Building,
100 Maryland Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=100+Maryland+Ave+NE+Washington+DC+20002
(Metro: Union Station, Red line)

For more info/RSVP: http://bit.ly/lobby-7-20-11
Download the lobby day flyer , post on bulletin boards and hand out at meetings and events!

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3. Progressive Coalition Meeting 7:30 PM Tuesday, August 9th in Wheaton

Combined MeetUp/Meeting for MCPA, DFMC, PDA, and more.
Progressive Coalition Meeting to plan future events and actions.

Saigonese Restaurant, 11232 Grandview Ave
Silver Spring (Wheaton), MD 20902
Public Transportation: Short walk from Wheaton Metro (red line)
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=11232+Grandview+Ave+Silver+Spring+MD+20902

Report on progress in our county and state on Healthcare, the Environment, Education, Labor, Transportation, Energy and other issues. We're building up our coalition and lobby efforts on the state and national level, planning special events, forming a steering committee, and working on meetings with legislators, and other organizations.


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4. Support the Montgomery County Progressive Alliance; keep us working for you: http://bit.ly/mocoprogress

We're organizing efforts to help achieve progress on the issues you care about.

We're working with members of Congress and the Maryland General Assembly every day.

We're building coalitions to save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security, hold events, lobby, and more.

All this takes time and resources. We cannot continue to succeed without your generous support.

Please contribute whatever you can to keep making progress in Montgomery County, Maryland, and the USA.

Support the Montgomery County Progressive Alliance; keep us working for you: http://bit.ly/mocoprogress

Save Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid Lobby Day

Please support the Progressive Democrats of America's upcoming lobby day in Washington, DC.

Save Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid Lobby Day

Progressive Democrats of America and allies will bring a simple message to Congress:
Don't cut Social Security, Medicare or Medicaid. Let's Medicare negotiate prescription drug prices. Lift the cap so millionaires pay their fair share. End the wars, redirect funds to meet human needs. In honor of Medicare's Anniversary, we want to improve and expand the program, not cut it!

When: Wednesday, July 20. Meet at 10am or 2pm
Where: United Methodist Building,
100 Maryland Ave NE, Washington, DC 20510
(Metro: Union Station, Red line)

For more info/RSVP: http://bit.ly/lobby-7-20-11
Download the lobby day flyer and post on bulletin boards and hand out at meetings and events!

Monday, July 4, 2011

Join us TODAY to plan our next steps

Reminder: Monthly Progressive Action Meeting
Join us to plan our next steps today,
Tuesday July 5th, 7:30 - 9 PM.

Let's make our own fireworks for progress after the 4th!

We've been working with members of Congress and the Maryland General Assembly to achieve Progress.

Our insiders report Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are facing deep cuts and radical changes. We need to strengthen and expand these programs, not cut them. We're building a coalition working for the People's Budget, progressive revenues, cuts to corporate loopholes, and protecting programs people need. We're working to wrap up the wars, and shift resources to better use: creating jobs, providing healthcare, and more. Also: report on our US Senate lobbying efforts for equality.

Saigonese Restaurant -- 11232 Grandview Ave Wheaton, MD
Short walk from the Wheaton Metro Stop (red line)
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=11232+Grandview+Ave+Silver+Spring%2C+MD

RSVP via Email: mocoprogressives@gmail.com / mike@mikehersh.com
RSVP on: MeetUp: http://www.meetup.com/progressive-victory/
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=205997409446232

See you there!

Mike

Reminder: Make Fireworks for Progress on the 5th!

Reminder: Monthly Progressive Action Meeting tomorrow, Tuesday July 5th, 7:30 to 9:00 PM
Saigonese Restaurant, 11232 Grandview Ave Silver Spring (Wheaton), MD 20902
Public Transportation: Short walk from Wheaton Metro (red line)
Google Map: http://maps.google.com/maps?q=11232+Grandview+Ave+Silver+Spring+MD+20902


We've been working with members of Congress and the Maryland General Assembly to achieve Progress.

Our insiders report Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are facing deep cuts and radical changes. We need to strengthen and expand these programs, not cut them. We're building a coalition to work for progressive revenues and cuts to corporate loopholes, not programs people need. We're working to wrap up the wars, and shift those resources to creating jobs, providing healthcare, and more. Also: report on our US Senate lobbying efforts for equality.

Join us to plan our next steps tomorrow, Tuesday July 5th. Let's make our own fireworks for progress after the 4th!

Please RSVP to me, or just show up if you decide late.

I hope to see you there!

Thanks,

Mike