Gov Chafee joins Democratic ranks

Democrat Governors Growing in Numbers...

RI Gov. Chafee, once independent, joins Democrats

By DAVID KLEPPER, Associated Press | May 30, 2013 | Updated: May 30, 2013 3:41pm

 

Photo By Joe Giblin

Rhode Island Gov. Lincoln Chafee talks with the media after registering as a Democrat at City Hall in Warwick, RI on Thursday, May 30, 2013.

 

To read more: http://www.chron.com/news/us/article/RI-Gov-Chafee-poised-to-join-Democrats-4559713.php#photo-4708243

 

Posted by S. Gresak

ObamaCare Timeline 2010-2022

SANDY’S LIGHTHOUSE EDITION |by Sandy Gresak

Although the ObamaCare Reform Act has been around awhile, each year something new is implemented. I believe it leaves us with questions...when does it start, what does this mean, what do I need to do? This is the timeline from the ObamaCare website. I hope it helps you plan ahead, as well, know where you can go for additional information.  http://obamacarefacts.com/

The Complete Timeline of Obama's Health Care Reform 2010 - 2022

Many of the protections, reforms and taxes are already enacted, some of the biggest changes roll out in 2014. Our timeline of health care reform breaks down what has already happened and what will happen each year until ObamaCare is fully implemented.

ObamaCare Health Care Reform 2010-2012

First let's start with the facts on what ObamaCare has done to reform the healthcare industry so far:
• ObamaCare allows the FDA to approve more generic drugs in order to drive competition up and prices down.
• ObamaCare increases rebates on drugs through Medicare for Seniors.
• ObamaCare closes the Part D Medicare Coverage Gap or "Donut Hole" that was forcing Seniors to pay out of pocket for drug costs. There is also a 50% discount on brand name drugs. Seniors currently get a rebate to cover the costs, ObamaCare closes the Medicare coverage gap for good in 2020.
• The PCORI, an independent non-profit advisory board, studies different types of treatments in order to ensure quality affordable health care under ObamaCare.
• Chain restaurants must now display calories in order to promote wellness and healthy living (this helps to keep the cost of health care down, since less people will need it).

• Health Insurance companies can't drop your coverage when your sick.

• Individuals can't be denied coverage for preexisting conditions.
• Children under the age of 19 can't be classified as having a preexisting conditions
• Children under the age of 26 can stay on their parents insurance
• Income exclusion for Indian Tribe health benefits that were provided after March 23rd, 2010
• Medicare cuts to hospitals and other health care facilities, these cuts are reforms, the money is reinvested back into Medicare
• “Comparative Effectiveness Research,” or CER studies the effectiveness of drugs by comparing drug to drug and seeing which one works best. They will continue to research and publish studies until 2019.

• ObamaCare establishes a “Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute” (PCORI) — a public-private entity that oversees ObamaCare's funding, goals, and outside partnerships.

• ObamaCare creates a high-risk pool for individuals with preexisting conditions. These individuals can still get treatment, but at higher rates. The high-risk pool disappears come 2017, at which point high-risk individuals will buy the same insurance as everyone else.
• Insurance companies can no longer discriminate for disabilities or domestic abuse
• The law imposes a 10% tax on tanning booths. The concept is to tax and regulate products and services that are likely to cause people to need to use their health coverage, to offset what it costs to treat these individuals.
• Rate Hike Review is implemented. Insurers can no longer increase your premiums for profit (also known as "price gouging"). They must justify rate hikes over 10% to the state and then display them on their website (and .gov website) the same day. As of Sept 2012 this measure saved Americans $1 billion. However not all States are using this rule, causing large Premium increases in their respective States.
• The 80/20 rule is implemented. Insurance companies now have to tell their customers how their money is being spent. If they don't spend at least 80% of the money on health care they have to give customers a rebate for the difference. The 80/20 rule has saved Americans $1.1 billion dollars via rebates.
• Health Insurance companies can no longer turn down a claim without an appeal process. This allows customers to have legal standing to fight the appeal.
• Anti-fraud funding is increased and new ways to stop fraud are created.
• Increases rebates for brand name pharmaceuticals purchased through Medicaid.
• New Annual taxes on pharmaceutical companies

• ObamaCare payment increases to physicians, mostly in rural areas.

• Some Small Employers are eligible for tax credits to help with health care related costs

• ObamaCare improves treatment for patents with chronic illnesses.

• The law prohibits non-group plans from canceling coverage.
• A limit is placed on what type of insurance accounts can be used to pay for over-the-counter drugs without a prescription. This does not include insulin, asthma medication or other vital drugs.
• Employers must list employee benefits on their tax form. This helps to determine whether the company will get tax breaks or credits for insuring employees.
• Hospitals in "Frontier States" (ND, MT, WY, SD, UT ) receive higher Medicare Payments
• Hospitals in "low‐cost" areas receive higher Medicare payments for 2 years
• All new plans must provide preventive care free of charge.
• ObamaCare does away with annual spending caps.
• ObamaCare greatly eliminates lifetime limits and reduces annual limits of health insurance plans.
• The healthcare reform timeline establishes new tools to fight fraud, this returned more than $2.5 billion in 2009 alone.
• Cuts $716 Billion from Medicare and Medicare advantage and reinvests it back into Medicare and ObamaCare (this obviously covers a lot of ground. Read more on ObamaCare and Medicare.)
• ObamaCare places a $2500 limit on tax free spending under FSAs (flexible spending accounts).
• ObamaCare establishes state consumer assistance programs to help consumers file complaints, appeals, enroll in health care and other consumer related assistance to better understand trouble spots that need oversight.
• Your FSA cost of an over-the-counter medicine or drug cannot be reimbursed from Flexible Spending Arrangements (FSAs) or health reimbursement arrangements unless a prescription is obtained. The change does not affect insulin, even if purchased without a prescription, or other health care expenses such as medical devices, eye glasses, contact lenses, co-pays and deductibles. A similar rule went into effect on Jan. 1, 2011, for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), and Archer Medical Savings Accounts (Archer MSAs).

• FSA and HRA participants can continue using debit cards to buy prescribed over-the-counter medicines, if requirements are met.

• The hospital "pay-for-quality" program begins. This is part of an overall effort to promote quality not quantity in the health care industry.

• There is a 3.8% tax increase on capital gains over, unearned income, interest, dividends, annuities, rent, royalties, and inactive businesses. Exemptions include income from tax-exempt bonds, veterans benefits and qualified plan distributions such as those from an IRA or 401k.
• The 3.8% tax does not apply to selling your primary residence in most cases.
• The Affordable Care Act has a 5 year plan that works to simplify administrative tasks associated with health insurance such as reducing paperwork.
• Starting in 2012 there is a new tax on private health insurance plans.
ObamaCare Health Care Reform 2013
• Health Insurance Exchanges Open for low to middle income Americans to make it easier for them to shop for health insurance. Those making over 400% of the poverty level can shop on the exchange but will not receive tax credits or discounts. The insurance purchased on the exchange doesn't go into effect until Jan 1st, 2014.
• Tax credits, discounts on out-of-pocket costs, tax breaks and other subsides are available on the exchange. The help you get on the exchange is directly related to your gross adjusted income.
• There is a .9% ObamaCare Medicare tax on those making over $200k as an individual or $250k as a business or family. This accounts for somewhere between 1.5% and 4.2% of tax payers (these numbers are from recent IRS and census reports, 2% is often used as a rough and not inaccurate estimate. Most sources agree the number is under 3%. 3% is also the number of businesses making over this amount in taxable income).
• 3.8% Medicare tax on unearned income over $200 for individuals and $250 for families and businesses.
• $500,00 deduction cap on compensation paid to insurance company workers
• ObamaCare lays out new rules about the amount that can be contributed to an FSA. A cap of $2,500 is applied to reform FSA's and prevent individuals from overpaying and then needing to rush to use the money before it disappears.
• Part D Coverage Gap or "Donut Hole" reduction goes into effect
• Eliminates deduction for Part D retiree drug subsidies for employers
• increases (7.5% to 10%) threshold at which medical expenses, as a % of income, can be deductible)
ObamaCare Health Care Reform 2014
• There is a tax starting at 1% of your income or $95 and raising to 2.5% of your income or $685 by 2016 for individuals. For a family it's capped at $285 in 2014 and rises to $2,085 by 2016 It cannot exceed these amounts. This helps pay for emergency and future coverage you may need. The tax penalty is paid on your tax returns. This is a "tax" not a "mandate".
• Congress must shop on the exchange.
• Pharmaceutical companies are subject to a new tax
• ObamaCare Medicaid Expansion expands coverage to 17 million low-income individuals (The supreme court ruling has given states the opportunity to opt-out of Medicaid expansion).
• A health insurance exchange is set up by states or the federal government if the states decides not to run their own exchange.
• Employers will be able to shop on the health insurance exchanges for employee insurance
• Tax credits, tax breaks and help with up-front costs are available to those struggling to pay for insurance.

• There is a new tax on medical devices

• Insurance companies are taxed based on their market share.
• ObamaCare Raises the bar on medical expenses before you deduct them from your taxes.
• Small Business Employers can shop for employee coverage on the health insurance exchange.
ObamaCare 2015
• Doctors income is based on quality of care not quantity of care. This is a vast simplification of the actual documentation in the bill. It is a protection from the current fee-for-service payment model.
ObamaCare Health Care Reform 2017
• States can implement their own plans which meet the standards of ObamaCare such as single-payer. (similar to ObamaCare, but instead of buying private insurance everyone pays a tax and everyone has coverage)
• Provides states flexibility to allow businesses with more than 100 employees to purchase coverage in the SHOP Exchange
• No more preexisting conditions for anyone including high-risk customers.
ObamaCare Health Care Reform 2018
• All healthcare plans including plans held since before plans had to offer preventive care must now offer preventive coverage.
• The "Cadillac" tax for higher quality coverage for individuals and employers purchasing insurance for employees is put in place.
ObamaCare Health Care Reform 2020
• ObamaCare fully eliminates the Medicare Gap (instead of just offering rebates to seniors)
For more information on health care reform check out our extensive coverage of Obama Care Facts

Health Care Reform Timeline Summary

Obama's Health Care Reform Bill is 1990 pages long. The wording is confusing, but the details of every benefit, tax, protection and reform is listed clearly. This health care reform Timeline gives you a good idea of everything that in contained in the bill and how its provisions unfold over the next decade. We will continue to update our health care reform timeline to keep it accurate and up to date in order to help provide all information on ObamaCare health care reform in one easy to use place.

I hope this has helped with any concerns. For additional info-click on the following link-this will take you directly to the timeline page.

http://obamacarefacts.com/health-care-reform-timeline.php  

Delayed but not deterred. Marriage Equality

Illinois marriage vote is delayed, but we are not deterred. Commit now to moving marriage equality forward in Illinois. The Illinois House of Representatives reached a key legislative deadline in the 2013 session when they failed to take up the Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act (SB10). For months, LGBT couples and their children have had their lives put on hold throughout an exhaustive political process that ultimately came up short. Today's inaction is a prime example of why the U.S. Supreme Court must rule in favor of full marriage equality nationwide to ensure the security and welfare of these and countless other American families aren't left to chance in future political battles. Despite this setback, we will not give up. We are committed to ensuring that all loving, committed couples can share in marriage. HRC and our partners at Illinois Unites for Marriage commit today to continuing the conversation, building the coalition and uniting the people in the Land of Lincoln behind the vision that all families – gay or straight – should be treated equally by the state. Say that you'll stand with us. Commit now to moving marriage forward in Illinois and take the pledge today. It is disappointing that marriage equality did not clear this vote in the House. As a result, the status of the bill is unclear for the remainder of 2013. As the bill remains "alive," we encourage supportive legislators to take affirmative steps to advance marriage equality now and to set the stage for action later this year. Over the past six months supporters like you have built something incredible. Illinois now has a robust coalition of organizations, civic leaders and elected officials who know that now is the time to end discrimination against same-sex couples and their families. And together we will all stand to see marriage equality finally pass in Illinois. © 2013 Human Rights Campaign Click here to read our privacy policy. Tell a friend: Click here to safely forward this message to a friend. Human Rights Campaign 1640 Rhode Island Ave., N.W. Washington, D.C. 20036-3278 Phone: 202/628-4160 TTY: 202/216-1572 Fax: 202/347-5323 Email: field@hrc.org

We Just Elected One Candidate – Why talking about 2016 already?

SANDY’S LIGHTHOUSE EDITION |by Sandy Gresak

 

 

Quotes to remember: And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country.

                                Inaugural Address by John F. Kennedy – January 20th 1961

 

Every time you listen to a political program you hear names being tossed around as a potential presidential candidate and why. You sit back and think, we just voted in a President, why are we discussing this now. I know it seems to early to think about the 2016 Presidential election. So I did some research on why it is not. It doesn’t matter if you are a first time voter or a seasoned voter, I found some of this information helpful in understanding why consideration of the next candidate starts immediately after an election.

 

The Mechanics of Presidential Candidacies:

• The Pregame Warm Up
• Informal Feelers, leaks and exploratory committees
• Announcement of Candidacy
• Primaries and Caucuses                                                

http://2016.presidential-candidates.org/

 

There are many factors to consider when looking for the Presidential Nominee. I found this information to be the most in-depth and yet easy to read.

 

4 Factors that Will Decide the 2016 Democratic Nominee

By Nate Parkhouse on February 21, 2013

• Claims To The Throne
• Will There Be A Deep Bench In 2016?
• How Republicans Define Front Runners
• Can The Potential Nominee Keep The White House In Democratic Hands?

 http://www.2016election.com/category/democratic-crandidates/

 

There were many reports and allegations during the 2008 and 2012 Presidential election, of voter disenfranchisement across the United States.

 

Voter Disenfranchisement Might decide the 2016 Presidential Election

By Nate Parkhouse on May 17, 2013

• Why Voter Disenfranchisement is Usually Conducted by Republicans
• Who is Targeted and What are the Methods?

http://www.2016election.com/voter-disenfranchisement-might-decide-the-2016-presidential-election/

 

The GOP will be grabbing at straws to improve their brand. The following article lists just a few of the issues they will try to use against the Democrats to make that improvement.

 

Top 3 Issues for Republican in 2016

By Nate Parkhouse on April 13, 2013

• US Drone Doctrine
• North Korea
• The “War on Religion”

http://www.2016election.com/top-3-issues-for-republicans-in-2016/

 

AND, now you will begin to see headlines like this one posted 6/1/13...

 

Jesse Ventura wants to be the first Wrestler President...

Ventura said he’d approached Howard Stern to be his running mate,  [Source]

 

 

Are you considering Running in DuPage County?

Running for office as a Democrat in DuPage has NEVER been more promising. If you think you have what it takes, please contact our Chairman Bob Peickert at: http://chair@dupagedemocrats.com

 

How do I become a VOLUNTEER?

Now that we have a better sense why it starts all over immediately after an election...it is not to early to start to VOLUNTEER. If you would like to help get our next candidates elected, please go to our homepage and go to the GET INVOLVED  tab on the dropdown go to HOW CAN I HELP?

 

9 Ways to Find Peace of Mind in Tough Times

This is gleaned from a daily column that I receive on line. Take from it what resonates with you!
Amy Rohrer, Executive Director DPDC

1.  Learn to trust yourself.
“It isn’t as bad as you sometimes think it is.  As you heal and grow, it will all work out.  Relax and trust yourself.”

Repeat that in your mind every morning.  Because the truth is, it all works out in the end.  Put your full trust in yourself by following your intuition and doing your best, and then move forward one step at a time with faith and confidence in the future.  Life will not forsake you.  Love, persistence and hard work combined rarely lead a person astray in the long run.

If you have faith in your abilities, if you stay true to the path that feels right, if you channel your passion into action, you will ultimately achieve a breakthrough.  In other words, as soon as you trust yourself you will know how to heal and grow.

2.  Focus on what you’re learning.
Mistakes and setbacks are simply a form of practice.

If the road is easy and free of bumps, you’re likely going the wrong way.  The bumps in the road teach you what you need to know to progress down a path that is all your own.  Sometimes things have to go wrong in order to go right.  Sometimes you need to change a flat tire or two before you can move on.

Bottom line:  Your journey isn’t supposed to be easy, it’s supposed to be worth it.  To never struggle is to never grow.  There is no perfectly smooth road to anyplace worth going.

3.  Ease your expectations.
Life is under no obligation to give you exactly what you expect.  Whatever it is you’re seeking will rarely ever come in the form you’re expecting.  Don’t miss the silver lining because you were expecting gold.

You must see and accept things as they are instead of as you hoped, wished, or expected them to be.  Just because it didn’t turn out like you had envisioned, doesn’t mean it isn’t exactly what you need to get to where you ultimately want to go. READ MORE

Our Seniors Nutrition Should NOT Have To Suffer...

Older Americans Act

May 23, 2013

Sen. Bernie Sanders, chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Primary Health and Aging, Thursday introduced legislation to reauthorize and strengthen the Older Americans Act which supports Meals on Wheels and other critical programs for seniors. “With 10,000 Americans turning 65 every day, our country’s growing population of seniors includes many who rely on these critical programs to help them stay in their own homes and communities,” said Sanders. Speaking at an Older Americans Summit, Sanders and others unveiled the new bill to extend the landmark law that was first enacted in 1965.

The measure is co-sponsored by Sens. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.), Tim Johnson (D-S.D.), Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Robert P. Casey Jr. (D-Pa.) Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) Al Franken (D-Minn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.).

At a time when millions of seniors are struggling with inadequate incomes and when nutrition programs for seniors have been cut, Sanders’ bill would authorize a significant increase in support for meals at senior centers and programs like Meals on Wheels that deliver food to seniors’ homes. Budgets for senior nutrition programs have been slashed this year as a result of across-the-board spending cuts known as sequestration.

At a time when many in Congress want to cut Social Security benefits, the measure also require the Bureau of Labor Statistics to create a more accurate way to measure seniors’ living expenses. A consumer price index for the elderly would account for spending on high-inflation goods and services like health care, prescription drugs and heating homes. The change would result in more accurate annual cost-of-living adjustments for Social Security recipients.

The bill’s other provisions to help seniors include improved job training services for seniors, expanded support for caregivers and added protections against elder abuse.

“As millions of Baby Boomers turn 65, reauthorizing the Older Americans Act is crucial to ensure that we meet the needs of today's seniors,” said Jim Firman, president of the National Council on Aging.

Nancy Altman of the Strengthen Social Security Coalition said reauthorizing the law “is critical to ensuring the wellbeing of seniors in the United States who are committed to living out their days in the comfort of their own communities.”

To read a fact sheet on the bill, click here.

To read the bill, click here.

To read letters of support, click here.

To read a list of supporting organizations, click here.

Governor Quinn's Monthly Newsletter: May 2013

Monthly Newsletter of the Office of the Governor (IL) Please do not reply to this email. To contact us, click here.

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Governor's Monthly Newsletter: May 2013 This electronic newsletter is an opportunity for you to learn more about what we've accomplished in Illinois government, and how you can get involved. Whether it's volunteering in a Serve Illinois volunteer project, receiving state services, or learning about new laws and programs, I want to ensure that you know what's happening in your government. If you have ideas for improving any State service, program, or this very newsletter, please click here and let us know. Sincerely, Pat Quinn Governor Featured Articles Unemployment Rate Declines The April unemployment rate fell to 9.3 percent from 9.5 percent in March, according to preliminary data released on May 16 by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES). Illinois has added 216,000 private sector jobs since January 2010 when job growth returned following nearly two years of consecutive monthly declines. Leading growth sectors since January 2010 are Professional and Business Services (+91,600); Education and Health Services (+59,600); and Trade, Transportation and Utilities (+37,600). Newtown Parents Join Governor Quinn on Gun Control On May 19, Governor Pat Quinn, along with Senate President John Cullerton and Senator Dan Kotowski, met with parents of the victims from the Newtown, Connecticut tragedy to urge lawmakers to ban the sale of high-capacity ammunition magazines in Illinois. The governor strongly supports Senate Bill 1002, which will allow Illinois to join more than 10 other states across the country that put reasonable restrictions on the size of ammunition magazines. The measure passed the Senate Executive Committee on May 20. AFSCME Contract Ratification On May 17, Governor Pat Quinn announced the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Council 31 members' final ratification of a new union contract covering approximately 35,000 state employees. Negotiations took more than 15 months, and the agreement received final ratification by AFSCME members in a vote that concluded on May 16. The agreement is part of the governor's agenda to restore fiscal stability to Illinois. The approved agreement will result in $900 million in healthcare savings over the life of the contract. The contract implements a new law requiring retirees to begin paying a modest portion of their health insurance premiums starting July 1. In addition, it includes modest Cost of Living Adjustments at a rate of 0 percent the first year, 2 percent the second and 2 percent the third year of the contract. The contract calls for new hires to start three steps lower, which amounts to about 9 percent less starting salary, which will save taxpayers money for years to come. Illinois Coal Exports Set Record in 2012, Supports 4,000 Jobs On May 1, Governor Pat Quinn released a new report that forecasts continued major export growth for the Illinois coal industry due to the state's large volumes of coal, competitive prices and access to prime water and land transportation routes. Illinois is now the fifth largest coal producing state in the U.S., up from ninth in 2009. The industry supports more than 4,000 jobs in Illinois. The report and its recommendations support Governor Quinn's five-year-plan to double exports by 2014 and to continue providing an export-friendly business climate in Illinois. Aisin Electronics Expansion Creates 80 Jobs On May 23, Governor Quinn announced that Japanese auto component supplier Aisin Electronics Illinois LLC is investing $32.8 million to expand its operation in Marion, creating 80 new full-time jobs for local workers. The announcement is part of Governor Quinn's agenda to create jobs and drive our economy forward. Illinois' transportation network, world-class infrastructure and highly skilled workforce were key factors in the company's decision to expand in Marion. The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is providing a targeted investment package for Aisin Electronics that includes a $250,000 grant under the Large Business Development Program. The program is designed for businesses undertaking major expansion projects that will result in a substantial private investment and the creation or retention of a large number of Illinois jobs. Aisin Electronics is also eligible for a $40,000 Employer Training Investment Program grant to help increase the skills of its workforce, and the firm will benefit from being located in an Enterprise Zone. The company will be eligible for tax credits based on job creation. FedEx Ground Distribution Center to Open in Sauget Creating 175 Jobs On May 14, Governor Pat Quinn announced that FedEx Corporation will invest $23.5 million to build a new FedEx Ground distribution center in Sauget, Illinois which will create 175 full-time and permanent part-time jobs for local workers. This announcement is part of Governor Quinn's agenda to create jobs and drive the Illinois economy forward. Illinois' transportation network, world-class infrastructure and highly skilled workforce were key factors in the company's decision to build in Sauget. The 181,000-square-foot distribution center is scheduled to open at Sauget Industrial Parkway in August 2014. Once fully operational, the new facility will process 10,000 packages an hour. The center is part of FedEx Ground's nationwide network expansion plan, which has added 11 major hubs and expanded or relocated 500 facilities across the U.S. since 2005. FedEx Ground currently operates 16 facilities in Illinois. The facility will create 25 full-time and 150 part-time jobs. For more information on why Illinois is the right place for business, visit http://illinoisbiz.biz. 1871 Digital Startup Hub Generates 800 Jobs On May 3, Governor Pat Quinn and Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel's administration joined leaders from 1871 – the first-of-its-kind digital startup hub – to release data showcasing its positive impact on the local economy. During its first year, the co-working center for digital startups in Chicago has generated 800 jobs and tens of millions of dollars in investment, while paving the way for future business leaders. Operated by the nonprofit Chicagoland Entrepreneurial Center (CEC), 1871 offers educational programming, access to mentors and investors and other resources to help early-stage entrepreneurs accelerate their path to success. Governor Quinn has worked to expand innovation through entrepreneurship in Illinois, investing in emerging fields and supporting startups across the state. During his 2012 State of the State Address, the governor announced that the state was investing $2.3 million to create and launch 1871. His early support and investment was critical in taking the startup hub from planning stages to reality. Governor Quinn Requests Federal Disaster Aid On May 17, Governor Pat Quinn asked the federal government to add 16 Illinois counties to a recent federal disaster declaration due to widespread flooding in mid-April. Counties included in this request are: Bureau, Crawford, Henderson, Knox, Livingston, Marshall, Mason, McDonough, Peoria, Putnam, Rock Island, Schuyler, Stark, Tazewell, Warren and Woodford. The federal government had earlier issued a disaster declaration for 11 additional counties. Governor Quinn declared a total of 49 counties state disaster areas after torrential rains caused widespread flash and river flooding. Those counties include: Adams, Brown, Bureau, Calhoun, Carroll, Cass, Champaign, Clark, Cook, Crawford, DeKalb, Douglas, DuPage, Fulton, Greene, Grundy, Hancock, Henderson, Henry, Jersey, Jo Daviess, Kane, Kendall, Knox, Lake, LaSalle, Lawrence, Livingston, Marshall, Mason, McDonough, McHenry, Mercer, Monroe, Morgan, Ogle, Peoria, Pike, Putnam, Rock Island, Schuyler, Scott, Stark, Tazewell, Warren, Whiteside, Will, Winnebago and Woodford. To date, Governor Quinn has secured federal aid to help people and businesses in the following 25 counties: Bureau, Cook, Crawford, DeKalb, DuPage, Fulton, Grundy, Henderson, Kane, Kendall, Knox, Lake, LaSalle, Livingston, Marshall, Mason, McDonough, McHenry, Peoria, Rock Island, Schuyler, Stark, Tazewell, Will, and Woodford. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which administers the assistance program, has a toll-free telephone number (800-621-FEMA (3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for hearing and speech impaired) for victims to apply for assistance. Registration can also be done online at http://disasterassistance.gov. Electric Rate Hike Vetoed On May 5, Governor Pat Quinn vetoed the Electric Rate Hike Bill, which would allow Illinois' large electric utilities to undermine the state's oversight and enact an estimated $70 million rate hike. The governor, who 30 years ago spearheaded creation of the Citizens' Utility Board (CUB) - Illinois' largest consumer advocacy group - noted that the bill would circumvent more than a century of state oversight of electric utilities. The rate hike proposed in this bill would be in addition to a $311 million rate hike Commonwealth Edison proposed to the Illinois Commerce Commission just last week. Governor Quinn's veto was overridden by the General Assembly on May 22. 290th Birthday of the Illinois National Guard On May 9, Governor Pat Quinn honored the 290th birthday of the Illinois National Guard, saluting its members who embody the democratic ideal of the citizen soldier. The Illinois National Guard has a dual mission: The state mission, under the governor's command, is to respond to domestic emergencies in Illinois or elsewhere through cooperative agreements between states; and the federal mission is to go into combat or respond to federal emergencies at the direction of the President of the United States. There are 13,000 Illinois National Guard soldiers and airmen serving at more than 50 armories, bases and training facilities across Illinois. Illinois Ranked as a Top Ten Bicycle Friendly State The League of American Bicyclists ranked Illinois 9th in their "Bicycle Friendly States" publication. This ranking is based on infrastructure and funding, education programs and enforcement of bicycle-friendly laws. Governor Quinn continues to work with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and other partners in developing new programs that encourage bicycling so Illinois remains a "Bicycle Friendly State." IDOT recently launched an online web portal for the Illinois Bike Transportation Plan that addresses statewide and regional analysis of current accommodations, policies and planning documents for bicycling. Governor Quinn Signs Legislation to Crack Down on Violent Flash Mobs On May 18, Governor Pat Quinn signed an innovative new law that will crack down on individuals who use electronic communication or social media to organize a violent flash mob. Signing this bill is part of Governor Quinn's agenda to ensure the safety of all people in every community across Illinois. Sponsored by State Sen. Kwame Raoul (D-Chicago) and State Rep. Christian Mitchell (D-Chicago), Senate Bill 1005 allows a judge to hand down an extended prison sentence to anyone convicted of mob action who uses social media or text messaging to organize it. This legislation is in response to a growing trend of large groups using social media such as Twitter and Facebook to organize flash mobs to commit crimes. Current Illinois law allows judges to impose a one- to three-year prison sentence for those convicted of using social media or electronic communication to organize or solicit a violent flash mob. The new law, which passed the General Assembly with near unanimous support, will increase the penalty to three to six years in prison. Asian Carp Monitoring and Response Plan On May 9, the Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee released its 2013 Asian Carp Monitoring and Response Plan (MRP). The 2013 MRP outlines a revised and aggressive set of actions to track and remove Asian carp in the Upper Illinois River and the Chicago Area Waterway System (CAWS) to prevent Asian carp from establishing populations in the CAWS and Lake Michigan. For more information and to read the MRP, please visit: www.asiancarp.us. Memorial Day Weekend Governor Pat Quinn honored our service members – active and retired – at several events this Memorial Day Weekend. On May 24, Governor Quinn visited his grammar school alma mater, St. Isaac Jogues in Hinsdale, to join the school's students in honoring and remembering our service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedom. Ten years ago this week, then-Lt. Governor Quinn dedicated a plaque at the school to honor a former classmate, Congressional Medal of Honor recipient Lance Corporal Lester Weber of the United States Marine Corps. On February 23, 1969, Lance Corporal Weber led a search and clear operation in Vietnam when his platoon was attacked by a heavily-armed North Vietnamese Army battalion. Weber was mortally wounded while attempting to save the lives of two of his comrades from enemy fire, after having overwhelmed at least eleven enemy troops. He received the Medal of Honor, the military's highest honor, in 1969 for his "conspicuous gallantry, indomitable courage and unwavering devotion to duty." His decorations also include the Purple Heart, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with one Silver Star and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. On May 25, Governor Pat Quinn unveiled the "Portrait of a Soldier" memorial exhibit at the Des Plaines Oasis, and announced the summer exhibit schedule at multiple Tollway oases in Northern Illinois. The exhibit features a series of hand-drawn portraits of nearly all of the 306 Illinois men and women who died in the 9/11 terrorist attack, Iraq, Afghanistan or in combat service for our country since September 11, 2001. It is on display at the Des Plaines Oasis Saturday, May 25, through Sunday, June 2 and will then travel to the Belvidere Oasis through Sunday, June 9. The exhibit will also be on display at the DeKalb, O'Hare, Lake Forest and Chicago Southland Lincoln oases, ending with the July 4 holiday weekend. Also on May 25, Governor Quinn joined city, state and national leaders at Daley Plaza to honor Gold Star families and the brave men and women that have given their lives for our country. On May 26, Governor Pat Quinn attended the Got Freedom Run at Miner School. Later that day, he announced an investment of an additional $5 million in state capital funds to increase affordable homeownership opportunities under the Welcome Home Heroes program. This program builds on IHDA's existing affordable home loan program, SmartMove, also available through IHDA's lenders. The financing package applies to 1-2 unit residential properties located in the state of Illinois that are purchased as a primary residence. Buyers must qualify based on income and purchase price limits, and can apply for the loan package through an IHDA lender. IHDA's mortgages have lower credit score requirements, provide cash for down payment assistance and require homeownership counseling. A list of lenders is available at www.ihda.org. On May 27, Governor Quinn attended the annual Park Ridge Memorial Day parade, and later that evening he brought Challenger the bald eagle to soar above U.S. Cellular Field and raise awareness for the Illinois Military Family Relief Fund (IMFRF). Since its passage in 2003, the IMFRF has helped more than 27,000 Illinois military families with nearly $15 million in grants. The program has served as a national model, with more than 35 other states having since passed similar ways for taxpayers to voluntarily help those who have borne the battle. Donations to the fund can also be made by visiting OperationHomefront.org. Checks can be made payable to the Illinois Military Family Relief fund and mailed to: The Illinois Department of Military Affairs, ATTN: IMFRF, 1301 N. MacArthur Boulevard, Springfield, Illinois 62702-2399. Governor Quinn is a longtime champion of Illinois' Veterans and service members. As State Treasurer, he launched Operation Homefront to inform National Guard members and reservists of their rights under the Soldiers' and Sailors' Civil Relief Act. As Lt. Governor, his Illinois Military Family Relief Act to aid the spouses and children of those called to active duty became a model for other states. As Governor, he has visited Illinois troops in Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait and Germany, and is committed to the goal of getting 100,000 Veterans hired in Illinois by 2020. Investing in Local Parks and Open Space Projects On May 11, Governor Pat Quinn announced a $15.3 million investment in local park projects across Illinois. The projects are funded through the state's Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development program (OSLAD) as part of Governor Quinn's agenda to ensure that no child is left inside. The initiative is designed to expand outdoor recreation and open space in communities across Illinois. The OSLAD program's funding recipients are responsible for contributing at least half of the total project cost. The $15.3 million awarded statewide this year, combined with the grantees' matching funds, will result in more than $30.6 million of local park development projects and land acquisition in Illinois. The program began in 1986, and, not including these most recent projects, has provided approximately $362.5 million for 1,596 local park projects in Illinois. For a full list of projects, please visit dnr.illinois.gov. Funding for Community-Based Supportive Housing On May 10, Governor Quinn announced that landlords across Illinois can now apply for a portion of up to $10 million to help increase safe and affordable rental housing for people with special needs. The announcement is part of Governor Quinn's agenda to ensure that all people have the opportunity to follow their dreams and reach their full potential. The investments are available under the Rental Housing Support Program, one of the nation's largest state rental assistance programs. Last year, Governor Quinn signed a law that allows landlords providing supportive housing units to apply for subsidies under the Long Term Operating Support (LTOS) portion of the Rental Housing Support Program. As a result of the law, up to $10 million in rental housing subsidies may be made available over 15 years to eligible landlords to help up to 150 households headed by a person with a disability. The program is administered by the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) and funded through a $10 fee collected from real estate document recordings. Applications will be available for landlords at www.ihda.org through June 10. Tenants for the newly subsidized units will be chosen through the State Referral Network.

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But on the flip side: McConnell Could Lose the Senate

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BIG NEWS: "Kentucky Senate Poll Shows Mitch McConnell Tied With Alison Lundergan Grimes"
-- Huffington Post
DuPage County,
Imagine how sweet it will feel if the Senate Republican Leader responsible for obstructing almost every progressive proposal gets defeated by voters in 2014.
New polling shows this is a real possibility. Mitch McConnell is the most vulnerable Senate Republican in the nation -- and his loss would send shockwaves through the political establishment.
We've spent $100,000 on ads against McConnell, held local events, and a dedicated organizer is mobilizing our thousands of Kentucky members.
Can you chip in $3 toward our work to defeat Mitch McConnell? Click here.
A report by reform group Public Campaign is entitled, "Cashing In On Obstruction: How Mitch McConnell’s Abuse of the Filibuster Benefits His Big Money Donors."
It states that on the very day debate began on a bill to repeal subsidies to Big Oil, oil donors gave an astonishing $131,500 to McConnell's campaign. Three days later, the bill failed due to McConnell's filibuster.
McConnell also blocked the public option, stronger Wall Street reform, background checks for guns, and so many other bills
A McConnell loss will send a signal to other Republican politicians: The obstruction needs to stop.
Can you help make that happen? Donate $3 toward our efforts to defeat Mitch McConnell.
Thanks for being a bold progressive.
-- Adam Green, PCCC co-founder

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Want to support our work? We're entirely funded by our members—no corporate contributions, no big checks from CEOs. And our tiny staff ensures that small contributions go a long way. Chip in $3 here.

Paid for by the Progressive Change Campaign Committee PAC (www.BoldProgressives.org) and not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. Contributions to the PCCC are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes.

Can we capitalize on Bachmann's departure?

SANDY’S LIGHTHOUSE EDITION |by Sandy Gresak

 Up Hill Battle for the Democrats??

Bachmann’s out...

Tea Party favorite, Michele Bachmann (R-Minn) announced on Wednesday she will not run for re-election for her fifth term. In July 2010, Michele launched the House Tea Party Caucus, but declared “I am not the head of the tea party.”

The GOP Conservative, well known for opposing the Obama Healthcare Bill. Also, is facing multiple investigations of her failed presidential finances, insisted this was not a consideration in her decision.

 

Even though Bachmann squeaked in a win against Democrat businessman Jim Graves, doesn’t mean it will give the Democrats a upper hand. It just became a whole lot harder. Minnesota’s Sixth District, represented by Bachmann, leans Republican. It is one of the most conservative districts in the state. Although, it isn’t a tea party haven, a moderate Republican could cause a real challenge for Graves.

 

So as I end this, let me leave you with one of the more memorable quotes of Michele Bachmann...

 

”Before we get started, let’s all say “Happy Birthday to Elvis Presley today.” Rep. Michele  Bachmann, while campaigning for president in South Carolina on what was actually the anniversary of Elvis’s death, August 16, 2011...Note Elvis was born on January 8.

 

To read more of her famous quotes go to: http://politicalhumor.about.com/od/republicans/a/michele-bachmann-quotes.htm  or  Read more ridiculous Michele Bachmann quotes...

 

Shhhhh. It's not up on their website yet but the numbers are in

Coming to DuPage August 9-11
CAMP WELLSTONE!


1 of the real drivers behind the beginning of our BLUE trajectory in DuPage was the 
training that over 150 people received on an August weekend in 2007. 


 A little less than 2 elections later Camp Wellstone is back and will surely be better than ever BUT admission is limited to 150 people who can chose from one of three tracks: Campaign workers, Activists and Candidates.


The tuition for this incredible weekend is only $300 dollars, spans  3 jam-packed days and includes your own set of their exclusive materials and 3 meals. A steal for a program that in the personal growth or DC political environs would easily run $699-$1000.


Watch 4 our upcoming announcement and get ready to sign up right away!!

 

Our new Elected Official Page. Contact them today.

Just wanted to make sure you have seen the new page on our website which gives you contact information for all of our elected officials in DuPage.

Many of these folks are up for re-election in 2014 and could really use your help.
Check them all out here and then pick your favorite to sweep back into office in '14!
http://www.dupagedemocrats.com/cms/elections/candidates

Mike Quigley Stands Proudly for the LGBT Family!!

Thanks Congressman!!
Please see the entire story of how Mike Quigley supported a Chicago couple in their  real struggle to live their commitment as a loving family along with video HERE

Blue Business Recognition

Your Business HERE!

HOLE SPONSORSHIPS available for the 2013 DPDC Golf Outing

For Your 200$ Sponsorship you get:

• A hole at the event just for your business which gets exposed to  many folks in Labor and in the Democratic Party who WANT to do business with YOU!
• Exposure in all materials on the day of the event
• Highlighted exposure in the email blasts (5000+ subscribers) leading up to the event
• Front page exposure on our website both before and after the event

BUT,  most of all, you can get a jump start on advertising to the ever growing Democratic base in DuPage and be considered a charter supporting member of better government in DuPage for our future and for the future of your customers. 

Gang Grandma

education

Why This 73-Year-Old Is a Gang's Worst Nightmare

When Mama Hill first opened her doors to children after school, she couldn’t have known that her program would grow into a much-loved community anchor.

By Amy Nicholson

January 14, 2013

READ THE WHOLE ARTICLE HERE

Yes, A Bi-Partisan Gun Bill

Bipartisan Bill on Gun Control...Really???

Congressman Bill Foster cosponsors H.R.1565

Everyday I meet someone new and somewhere in our conversation gun control pops up. And, I think this is because it is a frightening, very realistic problem in our society. I do not care where you live there is some form of crime involving a gun. Now I may make some enemies along the way here, but I believe there needs to be some type of control on the purchase of a gun. The two parties need to come to a place where this issue can become a bipartisan issue. So they can work together to make it safer for the young and old to feel free to walk the streets, parents feel safe to send their children to school, for young adults to feel secure in attending class. I follow-up every day to see any progress in this matter. Today I came across this article in the Trib Local that Congressman Bill Foster, Community Contributor, became a cosponsor of  H.R. 1565. I think as you read this you might agree this is a start and very necessary.

Rep. Foster Cosponsors Bipartisan Legislation To Strengthen Background Checks, Protect Rights Of Lawful Gun Owners

By Rep. Bill Foster, Community Contributor

10:19 a.m. CDT, May 15, 2013

Washington, DC—Today, Congressman Bill Foster (IL-11) became a cosponsor of H.R. 1565, the Public Safety and Second Amendment Rights Protection Act of 2013. The bipartisan legislation, a mirror of the Manchin-Toomey bill which received a majority of votes in the Senate (but failed to get 60), would strengthen background checks for gun purchases by expanding the system to include all commercial firearm sales, blocking criminals and the dangerously mentally ill from lawfully  purchasing firearms.  The legislation also strengthens the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding gun owners by banning the government from creating a federal registry and making the misuse of records a felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

“We cannot simply sit idle while tragedy after tragedy demonstrates all too clearly that we are not doing enough to keep guns out of the hands of criminals,” said Foster. “We need to take a comprehensive approach to this problem that protects the rights of lawful gun owners while keeping guns out of the hands of criminals and the dangerously mentally ill.”

Currently, there are many loopholes allowing anyone to purchase firearms without a background check, including buying firearms in the parking lot of a gun show, over the internet, or through a newspaper ad. The bill closes these loopholes by requiring the same background checks that federally licensed dealers have conducted for more than 40 years.

You can follow-up at http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/suburbs/

Posted by S. Gresak

FEMA office in Lisle for Flood Damage Assistance

Flood Damage Assistance

 

 

Fema Opens Office in Lisle...

 

FEMA disaster center opens in Lisle: Agency taking applications for federal flood assistance “... Residents affected by the April flood may apply for assistance at disasterassistance.gov, by phoning 800-621-3362 or by visiting one of four Illinois FEMA disaster recovery centers. In addition to facilities in Fulton, Grundy and LaSalle counties, a fourth center has opened at the Lisle Police Department, 5040 Lincoln Ave. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily until further notice. Officials said no appointment is needed. …”

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/suburbs/naperville_lisle/ct-tl-dupage-fema-center-0526-20130516,0,6320660.story

 

Posted by Sandy Gresak. Than you Paul for allowing me to gather information from your newsletter. If you would like to receive Paul’s newsletter you can contact him at psjordal@yahoo.com

 

 

 

 

Good Boy Scouts Don't need God

by Tom Krattenmaker, USA TODAY

Depending on what happens at the Boy Scouts' national meeting this month, gay Scouts might soon be accepted into the venerable organization. Even then, there will remain a large and growing group of Americans still barred by the Boy Scouts.

When will the Boy Scouts accept the non-religious?

The Boy Scouts of America recognizes an impressive range of religious affiliations that qualify one as "reverent" and, thus, eligible to participate. Two dozen varieties of Christianity get the nod, plus Zoroastrianism, Judaism, Hinduism, Islam, Bahai'ism and more. However, the non-religious are not welcome, and that poses a problem the Boy Scouts should address in addition to the sexual orientation question drawing so much attention.

READ MORE


Tom Krattenmaker is a member of USA TODAY's Board of Contributors and author of the new book The Evangelicals You Don't Know.
In addition to its own editorials, USA TODAY publishes diverse opinions from outside writers, including our Board of Contributors.

Copyright 2013 USATODAY.com

What Benghazi is really about PART TWO: 9 Freebies Obamacare has on the way

Here are nine tests, screenings, and treatments all adults will soon be able to get for exactly no moolah:
• Blood pressure screening
• Depression screening
• Obesity counseling and screening
• STD (sexually transmitted disease) prevention counseling for adults at increased risk
• Smoking-cessation interventions, including counseling and medication
• Some vaccines (some are included if you missed your teenage booster) including: an annual flu shot; human papillomavirus (HPV, which can protect against certain cancers); measles/mumps/Rubella (MMR); a vaccine against a type of meningitis; chicken pox; and tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis, or whooping cough, which has made a comeback in some states
• Birth control for women (under most plans; doesn’t include all brands, though)
• Breastfeeding counseling and supplies

• Domestic violence screening and counseling

 READ MORE