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Written by our very own Judith Fardig
Letters to the editor, The Oregonian
R.E. front-page article, Obama bends on health cancellations 11/15/13
If you received a cancellation letter from your insurance company, don’t try to hang on to your sub-standard policy without calling Cover Oregon first at 1-855-268-3767 to find out if you could get a better deal. Individuals making up to $45,960 and families of 4 up to $92,400 may be eligible for federal subsidies which you won’t get if you keep your old policy.
The Affordable Care Act grandfathered all the individual policies that were in place at the time the law was enacted, hence President Obama’s statement that you could keep your plan if you liked it. There were limits on the amount of increase in premiums or deductibles to keep this grandfathered status. The plans being cancelled because they don’t meet the minimal standards were introduced by private insurers after passage of the ACA, knowing they wouldn’t be in compliance by 1/1/14. The insurers should have disclosed this when they issued the policy. Now they are trying to blame their lack of transparency on the President.
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A great way to be proactive about ObamaCare, is to write to your local paper if there is an avenue for that. Thanks Judith, for the inspiration and for doing your part to spread facts about the wonderful law that is the Affordable Care Act.
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The Obama Diary 
An example of just how to do that ….
Amen….
Thank you UT for posting Judith’s letter as an example of just how to do what must be done – demonstrate the Americans are not going to be lied to or otherwise bullied regarding the enormous value of #Obamacare.
#FORWARD
So very helpful, UT, to have a URL to include in tweets and am grateful you have enabled us to do so. Hopefully, many of the TOD twitter brigade will make the most of the opportunity to do so.
Yes We Can
Thanks, Bob. Also, thanks for getting the word out.
More than happy to do so, UT. You’ve made it easier to do so!!
Thanks for sharing my letter (typo and all). Letters to the editor are read by Congressional staffers as well as lots of non-political people. Please feel free to revise for your own state’s exchange.
Congrats on First Bob!
And thanks for your spot-on tweets. You always find the right words.
Hello TOD. Been a tough 48 hours but getting better slowly.
Hope all will be well for you, Mariele.
MINORITY LEADER NANCY PELOSI ON ACA AND DO NOTHING CONGRESS
House Minority Leader Weekly Briefing
——————————————————
House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) held her weekly legislative press briefing. She said that Democrats were in agreement that a solution was needed for an ongoing problem with the Affordable Care Act in which individual health insurance plans were being cancelled. Other topics included immigration reform.
—————————————————–
http://www.c-spanvideo.org/program/HouseMinorityLeaderWeeklyBriefing9
Yes Nancy the little cowards were in agreement, weren ‘t they?
I thank everyone for protecting junk policies.
Aaww! Tricked my Utal’s silent steps AGAIN!
I *almost* feel like I need to accept your challenge, Utal.
Brilliant, thank yoooou UT-a-roo, and thank you Judith for making your voice so wonderfully heard. I love you people!
Anytime, Chiparoooooooski.
Chips Chica, third line, first paragraph, 2nd to last word – needs tweaking (not twerking). Thank, CC.
😳 Or thanks, Utal.
Oops – failed by spellcheck again! Good catch!
I harbour a great hatred for spellcheck, Judith – it drives me equally as crazy as the photocopier at work that tells me it is ‘recovering’ after a paper jam or whatever. For crying out loud, you are a machine, just do as I direct!
We love you back!
I have no doubt that part of the reason GiGi reported on the NSA was to scupper the US-EU trade talks. Europe would be so incensed that it would break off the talks.
Just saw a report on Euronews on the just-concluded round of talks. They’re moving along smoothly. AND: data privacy is NOT a topic of negotiations.
#FAIL again, GiGi.
Agree with your assessment, LL. Moreover, GG is nothing but FAIL.
Indeed LL.
My question is, is the deficit falling because of the sequester? If so, I’m not so sure we should be clapping at this, I feel a bit torn.
I see he’s found his natural state: on the couch.
Like human mother, like doggy son!
My brother chastises I and the missus for letting Stewie sleep with us. “He’ll think he’s equal to you.” Oh, he knew that the minute we brought him inside the house.
😆 You know LL, if Danny only thought I was his equal that would be great, but he thinks he’s waaaaay better than that – and he’s most probably right!
For God’s sake, we send him to doggie daycare. He knows he’s all that and a bag of veggie chips.
As all owners of kitties know, We Are Staff 😀 😀 😀 😀
Indeed Bob! My cat thinks I am his toy! He is a blue Persian so…I just go along!
Yep, Layla. Cats OWN us 🙂
Ha ha.
What a sweetie!!!!!! So happy for you Chips 🙂
Ah, thank you Bob!!! Love him to bits …. apart from the moments he chews the wallpaper 😕
When it comes to chewing/scratching our 2 kitties are world-class champs, Chips, so totally empathy!!! 🙂
😆 Bob, when I took him for a walk yesterday he met his first kittie …. I was dragged for almost a mile as he pursued it. What have I done?
😀 😀 😀
Awww, look at that sweet puppy with the gigantic paws!
Haha—Danny escaped from tweet lessons. Tricked ya.
Dotster, the funniest thing is that when I was on my laptop today he climbed behind me, jumped on the keyboard, and brought up all kinds of Twitter options I’d never seen before. And I can’t find them again. The boy’s a genius!
Oh, so Danny Smartypaws is giving YOU lessons. Danny’s a Canine Tech Guru. Maybe he could help with Obamacare?
Far be it from me to say that that young man is already spoiled and it’s not a month yet – look at the fancy, comfy pillow, nicely fluffed and placed just so under his head. Chips, don’t tell me you are going to be one of those new mothers who spoil the child rotten, then wonder why they are bratty when they get a little older. Hmmmm.
A dog walks into a bar and orders a gin and tonic. The bartender say “holy shit, a talking dog!”
Dogs have always been part of my life. I consider them gifts, and I also think they belong to a higher species than humans. They forgive, they love unconditionally, they want to please us (and what have we done to deserve that!) they make us laugh and forget the outside world, we weep when they leave us, but they never leave us. Every dog I have ever had is a permanent part of my heart…Penny, Tiger, Midnight, Suzie, Heidi, Lacey, Cleo, Keesha, Rose, Bonnie, and now Chanel. Each one was perfect…..and loved so deeply. I know our poodle, Chanel, is no doubt smarter than we are. She anticipates us all the time. She knows I’m going to take her for a walk before I ever get my shoes on or get the leash. She sleeps on the bed during the evening so that it is nice and warm when I get in it. We live together in a delightful synchronicity and love. I know this blog is full of good people, because so many love their dogs and cats. That is one of my tests!!!
HE IS A REAL SWEETHEART! Ruby, a black lab is staying with us at our bed and biscuit! Her sibling is a Keeshond. Tomorrow is our big fundraiser for Wigs 4 Kids. When it’s over, I will send you pics of Ruby and Allie. We love having them, and now when I look at Ruby, I think of Danny. He will grow into those paws. It will be such fun when his legs are too long for his body (coming up in a few months!!!!
Bob – I just expanded on the GOP “hate” part of your tweet with my 140.
Well done, as always, Jacqueline!!!
Washington (AFP) – The United States has destroyed six tons of confiscated elephant ivory, in a move wildlife groups hailed as a bold message to criminal traffickers that the ivory is worthless.
The ivory stockpile was pulverized by an industrial rock crusher at a US Fish and Wildlife Service refuge near Denver, Colorado on Thursday.
The move was “a clear message that the nation will not tolerate wildlife crime that threatens to wipe out the African elephant and a host of other species around the globe,” the FWS said in a statement.
…………………………//
http://news.yahoo.com/us-destroys-six-ton-ivory-stockpile-143233570.html
Nice!
Very fine and moving gesture!!
The overall coloration in this is quite eye-catching.
Caveat: It’s Raz …
… so, it’s likely the number of Americans supporting a diplomatic settlement with Iran is an even higher percentage ….
I’m playing catch up here:
President Obama is a true hero! In the midst of everything else he does, he takes the time to tweet and then send a vid to that little Batkid! Even FLOTUS took the time to acknowledge Batkid! Hurray to SF for opening it’s heart to that little boy!!!
Judith, your letter is awesome! Thanks for sharing it with us!
LL, congratulations to Mrs. LL on her birthday and on her becoming a vital part of our Care System. Best wishes!!!
Thanks, GGail! Have to push back on all the negativity from MSM and PUMAS who should know better.
O/T but kind of ‘neat’.
They’re already born, but they might not know it yet. This video of a unique bath is offering an amazing look at what life must like for twins in the womb, with the babies cuddling and embracing as if they were still in their mom’s belly.
The newborns cling to each other as they float in a basin full of water, with adult hands gently cradling and supporting their tiny bodies. At one point, water is carefully poured over their foreheads and eyes, while their noses and mouths stay above the surface so they can breathe comfortably.
……………………………..//
http://www.today.com/moms/twins-mimic-life-womb-amazing-baby-bath-video-2D11603427
This is nice – someone had posted the video on an earlier thread 🙂 But it’s nice to see it here again!
Hi Hopef. /frown/ That’s what I always get when I don’t follow the thread more carefully. O well, it’s quite short and maybe someone else like me hadn’t seen it earlier – apologies to those who had previously.
Hi VC, I missed it the first time around, thanks for bringing it again. It’s quite touching.
Hello there, …. (gulp) young lady! 😛 Yeah, I thought it was a bit unusual, but interesting. As I watched it the second time I wondered whether the babies could be given really early swimming lessons – they seemed so comfortable in the water.
No need to apologize vc – love the video; it should be posted on every thread! 🙂 I’m fascinated with twins/multiples.
Me too – at one time I dreamed of having twins (my father is a twin) or triplets, but *my* real reason was the thought of going through the pain or whatever only once, yet having more than one miracle at the end. 😉
LOL @ your “real” reason 🙂 🙂
Conclusion of article about the above video.
//……………..
Rochel [an experienced nurse] has bathed twins together once or twice before and said she was not surprised by the infants’ reaction in the video. The babies’ amazing response to the water is always beautiful to see, she added.
The Thalasso Bath is only for babies younger than 2 months old and Rochel cautioned that parents should not try to duplicate it at home.
bbl … time to go to the kitchen and prepare some dinner …. thought you all might enjoy this on a Friday evening, especially if it’s as blustery where you are as it is, here ….
Evenin TOD Peeps…. Got home to catch up on TOD’s posts today to see george snuffelopogus’ tweet. I’m so enraged I can barely breathe. I lost extended family in Katrina. I still have the Newsweek magazine with that precious child’s face on the cover … PRIMAL SCREAM!!!! Trying to compose myself so I can write a letter to ABC.
I think I have email George Stupid-nopoulos three or four times today.
I am so very sorry for the losses you experienced in Katrina! That was one of the most horrible episodes in our history, of course. Shouldn’t be compared to anything – these catastrophes and all the personal heartbreak that comes from them should only stand alone.
Could not agree with you more, Jacqueline.
Dear purpleshoesla – know millions of us get it, totally, and care so much for all of you who suffered the devastation of Katrina.
Well said, Bobfr. purpleshoesla – So sorry again you are going through all of these unnecessary reminders of Katrina.
During the 2008 campaign, I watched almost everything in the media. The attitude toward our President (then Senator) was disgusting and things haven’t changed. I read “71 Days: The Media Assault on Obama” by Michael J. Overstreet and every assault/daily (except two days) that he wrote about I remember seeing, hearing, and thinking the exact same thing. These people have continued the 24/7 bashing and assaulting. I don’t know how the President does it. I’m glad that Barack Obama is the President and I admire how he handles all the mess that’s thrown at him.
Right at your side, Carolyn, and am just as amazed as you are!
I hope he has stopped reading that snot nosed brat, Ezra Klein.
G’Night gently people, and sweet dreams!
This is the beautiful image in the first tweet:
I just heard that 39 democrats voted with repugnant a today to allow people to keep their insurance. Are you freaking kidding me? I just cannot stand this.
You heard right. Beyond repugnant. I think we should invite the President and Vice President and their families and all like-minded people to band together with us and go find land somewhere else in the world and form another country. Good luck to those we leave behind, in trying to keep the country going without us.
Count me in. I was ready to relocate overseas somewhere if either McCain or Romney became president.
I hope the DCCC calls me this weekend because I will let them have it, nicely of course because it isn’t the caller’s fault.
I was thinking of heading to Canada when Gore “lost” to W. Actually, come to think of it, I was thinking of moving out of Florida when Jeb became governor. (I’ve had this “thing” against all Bush politicians since the first George.)
Glad I stayed to “catch” Obamabot fever! Can’t make any promises after 2017, however, so let’s keep in touch!
Me too, although the stress of his campaigns have just about killed me. It’s been six long years for me feeling that I need to look out for him — like I could even do that. God bless him. He has inspired me so much by me taking a proactive role in local, state and national elections. And him bringing the economy back. — he is just incredible. I just can’t stand the way he is treated.
Jacqueline, your room awaits you, here in Vancouver!
Thank you, darlin’!
I said in a post here about a month ago that this
would come to pass.
I said that the majority population no matter what
their party affiliation, no matter their sexual persuasian
nor there income level would stab PBO in the back
when things got tough.
I know people are wary of a reprise of 2010 elections,
but at this point I despise the Democratic Party and
will not support them in any way.
Especially Hillary and her backstabber spouse.
I would advise concentrating on 2014 not 2016. Aren’t you “stabbing PBO in the back” when you promise not to vote for Dems which will prevent PBO from finishing his term with a Dem controlled House? When the going gets tough you run the other way, just like the Democratic politicians you claim to despise. Think logically, not emotionally. What you advocate is the exact same self-indulgent foolishness that lead to the 2010 mid-term results that has done real harm to the country. Do you “despise” the Dems more than you despise the GOP? You are saying and promising to do exactly what the GOP/MSM wants you to, don’t let them play you. What you advocate is akin to “cutting off your nose to spite your face”. Its really simple, if you don’t vote for Democrats, you enable the GOP to take control of the levers of power. You should probably take a break from the MSM/GOP propaganda so you can clear your mind. The constant propaganda has an effect on peoples perceptions of reality and causes them to take actions that run counter to their best interests, which is what it is designed to do. In closing, all this talk of 2016 is way premature. ANYTHING can happen between now and 2016. The MSM/GOP is talking about this stuff and Hillary to divide Democrats before the 2014 midterms (and to fill airtime). When the Democratic primary season starts in 2015, you look for a Democrat that you like and support that candidate. Until then, keep your eye on the ball and work to help make Nancy Pelosi the next Speaker of the House and Dems retain control of the Senate. This is a concrete way you can show your support for PBO.
Ericfive, when thinking about it I know you are right when you say, but I get so tired of these weak knee Democrats acting like dam cowards, instead of supporting the Obamacare.
“what you say” is what I suppose to have type.
I feel you. I’m pissed at the Blue Dog and other disloyal Dems. But I’m much, much more pissed at the GOP/Tea Party. Continue letting these disloyal Dems know how you feel (and calling out the corrupt MSM). I applaud your commitment. But we must vote for Democrats to help PBO implement his agenda. We must take power away from the racist and evil GOP. We will one day look back on these crazy times in which we live and take pride in the fact that we helped to save our country from rightwing extremism.
ericfive thank you for saying this. I’m sure this is now an old post and you won’t see this but this is exactly what I should be doing – taking a break from listening to MSM for a bit (although how I can I call them out if I don’t listen to them? acckk!)
But I’ve been thinking this is kind of the same trail that we were on right before the 2010 elections. and dems not showing up at the polls is what helped the gop/tea party back then. It sort of feels the same now here in 2013 but we must not let that happen. Dems need to get fired up and vote in 2014.
Any ways I didn’t mean to rant just wanted to say thanks for the reminder and the solid thinking that will lead to a dem house for PBO
I agree with you Ericfive. We can not afford to be emotional. WE MUST WIN THE HOUSE BACK AND KEEP THE SENATE! The rest is just noise.
Simply, unassailable realities be they off shore …
… or in every neighborhood in America …
https://twitter.com/Our4thEstate/status/401608045358108672
We’ve got much to do, my fellow TODers, but I have no doubt we will prevail.
#TrustBarack
Yes We Can
Rest well everyone … back with all of you sometime on Saturday 🙂
typo corrected …
now for some much needed, obviously, rest ….
Early Bird Chat!
http://theobamadiary.com/2013/11/16/early-bird-chat-76/