Obama's administration has sent out a memo to our Justice Department declaring the pursuit of medical marijuana users/cardholders and dispensaries criminally are a waste of their time and our tax dollars. Unless, of course, they are involved in any other criminal activity involving marijuana or not.
Sounds like a good start.
Yes, there still does need to be more clarification in all aspects of this issue and state's laws and I do agree with the attorney general of Colorado when he states there needs to be regulation of these dispensaries. Otherwise we have let the wrong people free reign in setting up shop in our backyard.
Ok- so if that's what's needed, when are we going to discuss the regulation and taxation of legal dispensaries?
How is this going to affect people on Medicare/Aid when they go and try and fill their prescriptions in medical marijuana-legal states?
And are Medicare/Aid participants even allowed to use medical marijuana?
I searched the Internet yesterday for 3 1/2 hours reading page after page, article after article (and alot were from Ron Paul) and I couldn't find a-n-y-t-h-i-n-g even addressing this issue.
I did find out that some guy who was on Medicare and needed a liver transplant was found to have marijuana in his system and was thus denied the transplant- resulting in his death. Seems the feds mean business and that medical necessity being the lesser of two evils was no defense.
That was a couple years ago, though- I wonder how scenarios like this will play out in the future?
Wonder what Carl Starr has on this issue?
So what I will do Wednesday is call New Mexico and Texas' offices and find out what I can- even medicare.gov didn't have any info- and I'll update you on this when I have an answer.
for background please refer to my August 20th, 2009 piece "Marijuana and Reformed Health Insurance"
Monday, October 19, 2009
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Update on Newspaper Tree
Ok, so Newspaper Tree has not officially folded but are walking wounded.
I don't know what they have in their back pocket, but with Sito and David's creativity and tenacity I'm sure we'll see what unfolds soon.
I hope, I hope.
http://newspapertree.com/opinion/4311-letter-from-the-editors/
I don't know what they have in their back pocket, but with Sito and David's creativity and tenacity I'm sure we'll see what unfolds soon.
I hope, I hope.
http://newspapertree.com/opinion/4311-letter-from-the-editors/
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Newspaper Tree Needs Our Support
Was nice to see a couple columns on Newspaper Tree's site yesterday. it's been awful quiet lately and now we know why.
Unfortunately, a great alternative to the El Paso Times has folded to the pressure of our economic times and it is a sad day of many in El Paso and also our sister city of Ciudad Juarez.
Sito Negron and David Crowder, among others, brought a smart and professional paper to the forefront of online papers and was a meeting site for many here in our region.
The two were at the forefront of investigative reporting in a time where no other papers in our region have time/money/commitment for follow-through.
The Newspaper Tree celebrated everything El Pasoan, Mexican and American- I guess you could say they were pro human rights. They kept the spotlight on Juarez and its many untold stories of struggle, El Paso's own struggles in keeping its autonomy as a border city but reminding everyone we are part of the U.S. and not just a dusty old Western town overtaken by tumbleweeds and they also shined the spotlight on free thinking Americans. They welcomed bloggers with all their different viewpoints and through their blog, other blogs, and reader comments El Paso had open discussion on so many topics of importance.
In fact, I will go as far as to say that because of online papers like the Newspaper Tree and its support of different viewpoints and the open forum it allows Americans and other readers of other nations in discussing hot, taboo or controversial topics we are moving forward and realizing that changes are needed and the air is thick- healthcare reform, narco-wars, celebration of culture and marijuana decriminalization or legalization are some subjects that stand out.
And I will go even further by saying that papers like these are even more important than mass/cable media on tv. So much tv media has gone the way of entertainment and what will fit into sound bytes that I feel much of the credibility has been watered down for quick sensationalism. It is papers like the Newspaper Tree that was in our own backyard that spoke from our hearts and gave hope that reasoning, transparency and commitment were more important than one man's agenda on op-ed that now passes for news to many that are too busy to do their own research or form their own opinions.
The niche for Newspaper Tree has been dug and we will not be happy until they can find the proper backing to keep this paper or a new alternative going. This kind of paper is far too important to be let by the wayside.
"one is content until he sees better, one isn't appreciative until he sees less" Henry Mulzac Peace Corps volunteer '75- '77 Belize
Unfortunately, a great alternative to the El Paso Times has folded to the pressure of our economic times and it is a sad day of many in El Paso and also our sister city of Ciudad Juarez.
Sito Negron and David Crowder, among others, brought a smart and professional paper to the forefront of online papers and was a meeting site for many here in our region.
The two were at the forefront of investigative reporting in a time where no other papers in our region have time/money/commitment for follow-through.
The Newspaper Tree celebrated everything El Pasoan, Mexican and American- I guess you could say they were pro human rights. They kept the spotlight on Juarez and its many untold stories of struggle, El Paso's own struggles in keeping its autonomy as a border city but reminding everyone we are part of the U.S. and not just a dusty old Western town overtaken by tumbleweeds and they also shined the spotlight on free thinking Americans. They welcomed bloggers with all their different viewpoints and through their blog, other blogs, and reader comments El Paso had open discussion on so many topics of importance.
In fact, I will go as far as to say that because of online papers like the Newspaper Tree and its support of different viewpoints and the open forum it allows Americans and other readers of other nations in discussing hot, taboo or controversial topics we are moving forward and realizing that changes are needed and the air is thick- healthcare reform, narco-wars, celebration of culture and marijuana decriminalization or legalization are some subjects that stand out.
And I will go even further by saying that papers like these are even more important than mass/cable media on tv. So much tv media has gone the way of entertainment and what will fit into sound bytes that I feel much of the credibility has been watered down for quick sensationalism. It is papers like the Newspaper Tree that was in our own backyard that spoke from our hearts and gave hope that reasoning, transparency and commitment were more important than one man's agenda on op-ed that now passes for news to many that are too busy to do their own research or form their own opinions.
The niche for Newspaper Tree has been dug and we will not be happy until they can find the proper backing to keep this paper or a new alternative going. This kind of paper is far too important to be let by the wayside.
"one is content until he sees better, one isn't appreciative until he sees less" Henry Mulzac Peace Corps volunteer '75- '77 Belize
Bert Williams Downtown Transfer Terminal
Someone I know is going to like this post, or at least most of it :)
Fair is fair.
Couldn't make it to the grand opening ceremonies Friday morning of the Bert Williams Downtown Transfer Center, but was lucky to have a tour later on in the afternoon thanks to Mr. Jay Banasiak, Director of Sun Metro.
It was beautiful!
Yeah, there's some minor kinks to be worked out, and some bigger ones, but overall it was such a breath of fresh air to see an updated modern city facility.
Breakdown-
the bathrooms (at least the women's and I'm sure the men's is similar) had a fair amount of stalls including one wheelchair-accessible stall. It was occupied when I 'toured' it and I wished that at least one other stall would have at least grab bars for ease of accessibility- maybe put in a set in the stall next to the wheelchair accessible stall and place a sign on it saying 'grab bar accessible'- that would be very helpful for us needing the bars if the other stall is occupied.
the outside benches- just enough room for people to sit on both sides, could use another 2-4 inches width, tho. Was nice to see little slots for wheelchairs to fit in under the canopy, but don't know if too many people are aware that that's why it's narrower there- we'll see as it's being used more if that creates any problem or confusion, if so then maybe a sign would help out above the area.
cafe- good eats, reasonable prices- burgers, hot dogs, coffee, soda and the likes. The tables and chairs arrived Friday morning so that was a relief- it is a bit crowded, tho, for wheelchairs.
air conditioning- need I say more? It wasn't hot Friday but the air sure felt good:)
security- Mr. B. said there were 4 security guards in the day and 2 in the evening hours- excellent!
lighting- too bad we couldn't get any stimulus money for solar on this project, but we should be able to convert sometime in the future- there's alot of incentives and tax credits out there to be had. Maybe we can work with the BRAC projects that want to include solar for certain city/base projects?
All in all- a great leap in the right direction!
I even like the outside sculpture, alot, even tho it wasn't made by an El Paso artist- would like to see more art at the other new terminals by local artists.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Community Choice Act NOW!!!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OK2Hwp5by64&NR=1
video of ADAPTers in action- towards the end of the video is our own Frank Lozano of DesertADAPT- GO BROTHER!!!
ADAPT is in Atlanta, Ga. right now on one of their bi-annual actions.
The Community Choice Act is one of the issues being brought up, along with treating the individual not the medical condition and fighting for better wages and benefits for personal attendants.
The Community Choice Act includes and expands on "the money follows the person". For years many disabled and elderly have had to be institutionalized in order to receive their "benefits" that keep them alive. They have been taken from loved ones and forced to live in nursing homes and institutions just because they receive some sort of government assistance. There they are told when to eat, what to eat, where they can go, when they must go to sleep etc. And we all have heard the horror stories of the neglect and abuses many have had to endure while in this "care".
The Community Choice Act allows the receiver of the benefits to dictate where they want to live and how they receive their services. And alot of people want to live at home with family or independantly. As free Americans that should be their choice. This Act also allows the receiver to hire, fire and train their own personal attendant, no longer would they be subjected to abuse and neglect at the hands of others making their decisions. Instead of an institution having the say in how the money is spent the receiver of the benefits has a voice. Along with a caseworker, the individual plans his own care and where and how they receive the services. It is already proven to be more cost-effective, let alone the individual is happier having more control over their life.
Another issue ADAPT is fighting for is individual need vs medical condition. What that means in a nutshell is that not every person with cerebral palsy, for example, is going to have the same needs as another with the same general condition. Included with this would be maintaining and upgrading necessary equipment or aids tailored to the individual's needs and lifestyle- no more waiting another 4 months for new wheels on a wheelchair that has worn out wheels just because the individual has reached their "cap" for the year and must wait until the next fiscal year of benefits to kick in. Imagine the productivity this individual could attain if not impeded by bureaucratic red tape and unecessary rules of benefit distribution!
The other issue ADAPT is currently fighting for is for personal attendants rights to a livable wage and benefits. Right now many agencies paid by the government aid in the hiring of attendants and keep them at a low wage and usually without benefits- these same agencies also takes out a percentage of money earmarked for the individual receiver in administrative costs, and usually at an unfair amount. With community based alternatives the individual, along with their caseworker and/or representative, decides what rate of pay the attendant receives and what benefits out of the monies they receive annually for the individual's care. A plan is written annually and a budget made and any help from outside agencies is paid a nominal portion out of those monies for administrative support. It is a more cost-effective way of using the monies and results in a happier individual receiving the benefits and keeps the personal attendant happier by giving them a livable wage and chance for advancement within their field.
As a senator, Obama promised to help push through the Community Choice Act. As President, he has stalled the process.
The time for change is NOW!
Many Tea Partiers have been protesting for months now that they don't want to give up control in how their taxes are spent with regard to healthcare and this is one big issue they should all be backing. Reforming Medicare/Medicaid and voting for the Community Choice Act now not only makes better use of all our tax money but makes life more fair, dignified and livable for our disabled and elderly.
video of ADAPTers in action- towards the end of the video is our own Frank Lozano of DesertADAPT- GO BROTHER!!!
ADAPT is in Atlanta, Ga. right now on one of their bi-annual actions.
The Community Choice Act is one of the issues being brought up, along with treating the individual not the medical condition and fighting for better wages and benefits for personal attendants.
The Community Choice Act includes and expands on "the money follows the person". For years many disabled and elderly have had to be institutionalized in order to receive their "benefits" that keep them alive. They have been taken from loved ones and forced to live in nursing homes and institutions just because they receive some sort of government assistance. There they are told when to eat, what to eat, where they can go, when they must go to sleep etc. And we all have heard the horror stories of the neglect and abuses many have had to endure while in this "care".
The Community Choice Act allows the receiver of the benefits to dictate where they want to live and how they receive their services. And alot of people want to live at home with family or independantly. As free Americans that should be their choice. This Act also allows the receiver to hire, fire and train their own personal attendant, no longer would they be subjected to abuse and neglect at the hands of others making their decisions. Instead of an institution having the say in how the money is spent the receiver of the benefits has a voice. Along with a caseworker, the individual plans his own care and where and how they receive the services. It is already proven to be more cost-effective, let alone the individual is happier having more control over their life.
Another issue ADAPT is fighting for is individual need vs medical condition. What that means in a nutshell is that not every person with cerebral palsy, for example, is going to have the same needs as another with the same general condition. Included with this would be maintaining and upgrading necessary equipment or aids tailored to the individual's needs and lifestyle- no more waiting another 4 months for new wheels on a wheelchair that has worn out wheels just because the individual has reached their "cap" for the year and must wait until the next fiscal year of benefits to kick in. Imagine the productivity this individual could attain if not impeded by bureaucratic red tape and unecessary rules of benefit distribution!
The other issue ADAPT is currently fighting for is for personal attendants rights to a livable wage and benefits. Right now many agencies paid by the government aid in the hiring of attendants and keep them at a low wage and usually without benefits- these same agencies also takes out a percentage of money earmarked for the individual receiver in administrative costs, and usually at an unfair amount. With community based alternatives the individual, along with their caseworker and/or representative, decides what rate of pay the attendant receives and what benefits out of the monies they receive annually for the individual's care. A plan is written annually and a budget made and any help from outside agencies is paid a nominal portion out of those monies for administrative support. It is a more cost-effective way of using the monies and results in a happier individual receiving the benefits and keeps the personal attendant happier by giving them a livable wage and chance for advancement within their field.
As a senator, Obama promised to help push through the Community Choice Act. As President, he has stalled the process.
The time for change is NOW!
Many Tea Partiers have been protesting for months now that they don't want to give up control in how their taxes are spent with regard to healthcare and this is one big issue they should all be backing. Reforming Medicare/Medicaid and voting for the Community Choice Act now not only makes better use of all our tax money but makes life more fair, dignified and livable for our disabled and elderly.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Gripes from Under the Weather
Haven't posted in awhile, been extremely busy with the planning and execution of my birthday party, and now I'm sick.
But I'm going to post on a few subjects that are on my mind and some that are out there dangling, waiting for answers still.
Never did hear back from Tom Bohannon about my offer to help him in his PR department his staff is lacking so that we can get those accessible apartments rented he so desperately can't rent to the very people they are intended for. Guess he's busy playing with numbers and figuring how he can skew them in his favor when this comes back to city council. Don't worry, Tom, I'm working hard, too- gathering FACTS.
Haven't been by or heard anything back on the leak at city hall in the planter out front- another email written to them going unanswered- imagine! As soon as I can hear over the phone (my cold/flu is really messing with me) I will give them a call and try and get answers.
Have other emails out there still pending that will be full stories, if they go unanswered too much longer that will end up being the story!
Funny how some people schmooze you to no end to get support for a project they are working on and promise they will work with you because they know how busy you are because of the line of work you are in, but when it comes right down to it they really don't care. I will expound on this much more as it unfolds, it's a doozy.
City Hall must be in a "dead zone" as far as returned phone calls, emails and the like... waiting on another response from one department and waiting to hear about a supposed meeting that was to take place a month and a half ago yet it's been 3 months. And I AM being serious, many times when I call I get a terrible connection over there or the call gets dropped- even have a hard time accessing the city's website if it's early in the morning the day of a city council meeting. Hmmmmmm. Anyone else experience any troubles with the website the day of?
Even waiting to hear back from a news source on a hot yet forgotten story (but not forgotten by me).
Is it just me? Or is it me? People don't write letters much anymore since phones have been around (what- the last 100 years?) and now email. What's the deal with not responding to phone calls or emails? Isn't that part of the city's job working on our behalf? To have a fair and transparent government? What's with the games? Must I put in an open records request for everything?
Geez, for being in a desert it sure is shady around here!
But I'm going to post on a few subjects that are on my mind and some that are out there dangling, waiting for answers still.
Never did hear back from Tom Bohannon about my offer to help him in his PR department his staff is lacking so that we can get those accessible apartments rented he so desperately can't rent to the very people they are intended for. Guess he's busy playing with numbers and figuring how he can skew them in his favor when this comes back to city council. Don't worry, Tom, I'm working hard, too- gathering FACTS.
Haven't been by or heard anything back on the leak at city hall in the planter out front- another email written to them going unanswered- imagine! As soon as I can hear over the phone (my cold/flu is really messing with me) I will give them a call and try and get answers.
Have other emails out there still pending that will be full stories, if they go unanswered too much longer that will end up being the story!
Funny how some people schmooze you to no end to get support for a project they are working on and promise they will work with you because they know how busy you are because of the line of work you are in, but when it comes right down to it they really don't care. I will expound on this much more as it unfolds, it's a doozy.
City Hall must be in a "dead zone" as far as returned phone calls, emails and the like... waiting on another response from one department and waiting to hear about a supposed meeting that was to take place a month and a half ago yet it's been 3 months. And I AM being serious, many times when I call I get a terrible connection over there or the call gets dropped- even have a hard time accessing the city's website if it's early in the morning the day of a city council meeting. Hmmmmmm. Anyone else experience any troubles with the website the day of?
Even waiting to hear back from a news source on a hot yet forgotten story (but not forgotten by me).
Is it just me? Or is it me? People don't write letters much anymore since phones have been around (what- the last 100 years?) and now email. What's the deal with not responding to phone calls or emails? Isn't that part of the city's job working on our behalf? To have a fair and transparent government? What's with the games? Must I put in an open records request for everything?
Geez, for being in a desert it sure is shady around here!
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