Attendance: Judy Kramer, Ed Fire, Debbi Thomas, Becky Thomas, Ray DiCarlo, Lynne Rustad, Kathy Kolcaba
Meeting called to order at 9:30 by President Lynne Rustad
Treasurer’s Report:
• Balance $4,573.22, rent paid through November
• Fund raising should be considered at every event we host
Communications/Membership:
• Membership letters have gone out
• Follow-up will occur in two weeks with an email reminder
• Membership bag will be prepared to take to all meetings
• Bill Rowe will be contacted to prepare more brochures
Fund Raising Committee:
• Football benefit on 11/21 at 11:30 at Diana Nazellis. Thirty people can be accommodated. People can participate in football pool IF they can not attend event. Email reminders should be sent in the next week.
• Holiday Party at Little Theater, 12/3 at 6:30 Pot Luck/Raffle
Advocacy:
• Local election discussed – loss by Nazelli and Thomas regretted
• Issue 6 was endorsed by Patriots, issue passed
• We will schedule a letter writing meeting to encourage Voinovich to support health care bill
• You Street (Campaign Finance Reform) continues to build support. They need donations.
Education:
• Book Discussion with panel on 1/9/10 at CF Library: Justice: What's the Right Thing to Do? by Michael J. Sandel.
Health Care:
• Battle for single payer continues on some fronts
• Senate Bill still not final. Discussion continues.
• Write legislators to voice support for a robust public plan, curbing insurance costs etc.
• Lynne Rustad will present Update on Health Care Reform to Chagrin Valley Democratic Club tonight.
New Business:
• Nominating Committee will meet before Nov. 24th
• Committee members: Jana Theis, George Lupone, Becky Thomas, Lori Zaim, Kathy Kolcaba, Ray DiCarlo
• Slate of candidates nominated by committee will be emailed to members for additional nominations prior to election in December.
Meeting Adjourned at 11 AM
Next Steering Committee: Dec.8th, 2009
Respectfully submitted Acting Secretary,
Becky Thomas
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
October 13, 2009 Patriots for Change Steering Committee Minutes
Approval of 9/8/09 Minutes: MINUTES APPROVED AS SUBMITTED
Patriots for Change Election:
Nominating Committee: Slots to be filled thus far include PRESIDENT, President-elect and Secretary. NO MEMBERS FOR COMMITTEE CHOSEN AS OF YET.
Treasurers Report (Kolcaba):
Quarterly Report (deferred from September) BALANCE AT END OF QUARTER: $ 4826.76.
October report: ADD $200.00 TO QUARTERLY BALANCE (MEMBERSHIP PAYMENT). OCT. BANK STATEMENT NOT YET RECEIVED (FOR DEBITS).
Plan for year-end audit: DISCUSSION TABLED
Communication (Zaim): NO REPORT.
Membership (Lupone): NEXT MEETING OCT. 20, TUESDAY, 9:30 AM & ALL ARE INVITED.
Fund Raising (Fire/Kolcaba):
Football fundraiser November 21st : KATHY & RAY KOLCABA WILL PLAN WITH ADDITIONAL HELP. D. THOMAS VOLUNTEERED AND KATHY WILL CALL A FEW OTHERS
Football pool: RAY AND D. THOMAS WILL CONSTRUCT. GOAL IS TO CLEAR $500.00 OVERALL. AIM IS TO HAVE GOOD NATURED RIVALRY BETWEEN MICHIGAN & OSU FANS.
Education (Kramer):
The Great Debate
Future plans: DECISIONS IN PROGRESS ABOUT BOTH OF THESE ITEMS.
Advocacy Committee (Fire):
School Board visit: J. KRAMER ATTENDED AND REPORTED THAT THERE WAS LIMITED DISCUSSION.
Cuyahoga County Reform: STEERING COMMITTEE VOTED TO ASK MEMBERSHIP IF THEY WANTED TO SUPPORT THIS ISSUE.
Candidates’ Meeting at Hamlet: A FUTURE EVENT ON OCT. 21, 7-9 PM; ATTENDANCE REQUESTED.
Nazelli/Thomas “debate” – MEETING AT TOWNSHIP HALL WELL ATTENDED BUT OPPOSITION CANDIDATES DID NOT SHOW.
Visit to LaTourette’s office http://patriots4change.blogspot.com/2009/09/sept-16-2009-meeting-at-congressman.html STAFF MEMBER PLEASANT, BUT UNINFORMED
Visit to Voinovich’s office: STAFF MEMBER DIFFICULT TO WORK WITH
Nazelli/Thomas endorsement: UNANIMOUS DECISION TO ENDORSE; WILL BE SENT TO MEMBERSHIP FOR VOTE.
Voter registration: CONSENSUS WAS NOT TO PUT EFFORT IN FOR THIS YEAR, BUT INCREASE EFFORTS FOR 2110 ELECTION YEAR.
Health Care Reform (DiCarlo):
Senior presentation at Hamlet: ABILITY & KNOWLEDGE OF AUDIENCE VARIED. TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES WITH SLIDES AS USED BY L. RUSTAD FOR PRESENTATION.
Xenia and Cleveland Mad as Hell Doctors rallies: WELL ATTENDED & INTERESTING DOWNTOWN CLEVELAND (PER J. KRAMER); LESS WELL ATTENDED IN XENIA (PER L. RUSTAD).
Current status of health reform negotiations: A MESS
Chagrin Valley Democratic Club presentation: WILL BE NOV. 10
Geauga Change Unitarian Church presentation: J. MALONEY WILL MODERATE DEBATE, NOV. 12.
Bylaws: DISCUSSED AND MINOR CHANGES MADE. IN PROGRESS.
New Business:
Chief Brosius re: Police Station issue: DID NOT SHOW.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED,
KATHY KOLCABA
Patriots for Change Election:
Nominating Committee: Slots to be filled thus far include PRESIDENT, President-elect and Secretary. NO MEMBERS FOR COMMITTEE CHOSEN AS OF YET.
Treasurers Report (Kolcaba):
Quarterly Report (deferred from September) BALANCE AT END OF QUARTER: $ 4826.76.
October report: ADD $200.00 TO QUARTERLY BALANCE (MEMBERSHIP PAYMENT). OCT. BANK STATEMENT NOT YET RECEIVED (FOR DEBITS).
Plan for year-end audit: DISCUSSION TABLED
Communication (Zaim): NO REPORT.
Membership (Lupone): NEXT MEETING OCT. 20, TUESDAY, 9:30 AM & ALL ARE INVITED.
Fund Raising (Fire/Kolcaba):
Football fundraiser November 21st : KATHY & RAY KOLCABA WILL PLAN WITH ADDITIONAL HELP. D. THOMAS VOLUNTEERED AND KATHY WILL CALL A FEW OTHERS
Football pool: RAY AND D. THOMAS WILL CONSTRUCT. GOAL IS TO CLEAR $500.00 OVERALL. AIM IS TO HAVE GOOD NATURED RIVALRY BETWEEN MICHIGAN & OSU FANS.
Education (Kramer):
The Great Debate
Future plans: DECISIONS IN PROGRESS ABOUT BOTH OF THESE ITEMS.
Advocacy Committee (Fire):
School Board visit: J. KRAMER ATTENDED AND REPORTED THAT THERE WAS LIMITED DISCUSSION.
Cuyahoga County Reform: STEERING COMMITTEE VOTED TO ASK MEMBERSHIP IF THEY WANTED TO SUPPORT THIS ISSUE.
Candidates’ Meeting at Hamlet: A FUTURE EVENT ON OCT. 21, 7-9 PM; ATTENDANCE REQUESTED.
Nazelli/Thomas “debate” – MEETING AT TOWNSHIP HALL WELL ATTENDED BUT OPPOSITION CANDIDATES DID NOT SHOW.
Visit to LaTourette’s office http://patriots4change.blogspot.com/2009/09/sept-16-2009-meeting-at-congressman.html STAFF MEMBER PLEASANT, BUT UNINFORMED
Visit to Voinovich’s office: STAFF MEMBER DIFFICULT TO WORK WITH
Nazelli/Thomas endorsement: UNANIMOUS DECISION TO ENDORSE; WILL BE SENT TO MEMBERSHIP FOR VOTE.
Voter registration: CONSENSUS WAS NOT TO PUT EFFORT IN FOR THIS YEAR, BUT INCREASE EFFORTS FOR 2110 ELECTION YEAR.
Health Care Reform (DiCarlo):
Senior presentation at Hamlet: ABILITY & KNOWLEDGE OF AUDIENCE VARIED. TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES WITH SLIDES AS USED BY L. RUSTAD FOR PRESENTATION.
Xenia and Cleveland Mad as Hell Doctors rallies: WELL ATTENDED & INTERESTING DOWNTOWN CLEVELAND (PER J. KRAMER); LESS WELL ATTENDED IN XENIA (PER L. RUSTAD).
Current status of health reform negotiations: A MESS
Chagrin Valley Democratic Club presentation: WILL BE NOV. 10
Geauga Change Unitarian Church presentation: J. MALONEY WILL MODERATE DEBATE, NOV. 12.
Bylaws: DISCUSSED AND MINOR CHANGES MADE. IN PROGRESS.
New Business:
Chief Brosius re: Police Station issue: DID NOT SHOW.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED,
KATHY KOLCABA
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Patriots for Change 2009 Election Endorsements
NOVEMBER 3, 2009 GENERAL ELECTION
1. Vote on Endorsement of Cuyahoga County Charter Reform Issue #6
(The following endorsement is from the independent, non-partisan League of Women Voters.)
I. BALLOT QUESTION # 6 : "Shall a county charter be adopted, providing for an elected county executive, an elected county prosecutor, eleven county council members elected by district, and all other officers appointed by the county executive whose appointments are subject to the confirmation by council and who shall serve at the pleasure of the county executive...?"
The League of Women Voters recommends: VOTE YES! Here's why:
Separation of Legislative (policy-making) from Executive (administrative) powers permits numerous effective checks and balances to hinder or prevent overreaching by a single strong County leader, while providing Ohio's largest county with executive focus and visible, accountable leadership.
A Council of 11 will represent the county's diverse districts and have the power to pass ordinances, investigate wrongdoing in the bureaucracy, and debate County policies in the open.
Appointing rather than electing 7 of the 8 "row offices" (Recorder, Auditor, Sheriff, Coroner, Engineer, Clerk of Courts and Treasurer) leads to a unified, professionally administered executive branch that greatly reduces patronage, duplication and waste.
New safeguards against corruption and abuse of power include mandatory internal audits, centralized employment standards, a code of ethics covering conflicts of interest, a whistle-blower mandate, possible recall elections, and a charter amendment process.
Powerful new focus on both economic development and regional collaboration brings limited Home Rule flexibility that will enable new initiatives to reverse county decline.
This charter is backed by 53,000 petition signatures and a bipartisan group of political and civic leaders including the League of Women Voters. It is drawn from the best features of the Summit County charter, the 1996 Barber Commission draft, the Municipal League's Model County Charter, and suggestions by the drafting group, municipal law specialists, and other contributors. Diverse opinions were sought, respected and incorporated.
2. STATEMENT FROM DIANA NAZELLI, CANDIDATE FOR CHAGRIN FALLS TRUSTEE
As Township Trustee for the past eight years, I have protected the assets of the Township, including historic Falls Road and our historic Township Hall.
On completion of the Falls Rd project in 2005, the Trustees turned to the restoration of Township Hall. From the beginning, I have advocated a "do it right" approach. Prior to the time that I became a Trustee, the Township had not consulted with historic specialists and spent money on a handicapped access elevator that was not protected from the elements and collapsed in an ice storm. A handicapped access restroom was completed that does not adequately accommodate wheelchairs. In addition, well-meaning repairs to the exterior brick caused more problems than they solved because inappropriate materials were used.
I bring experience and knowledge regarding historic preservation to the office of Trustee. I have insisted upon a “do it right” approach to the restoration of the 1847 historic building that I feel it deserves. The building does not need any quick fixes; all maintenance is up to date. Together with other Trustees, I have consulted with contractors and historic architects. Their assessment is that, although the building needs restoration and updating, it will remain solid for the foreseeable future in its current condition.
Because of my work, a long-term plan has been put into place for the restoration of Township Hall. Several sources of funding will be needed in order to succeed but the plan will not burden taxpayers - even though it is a publicly owned building. The plan includes a private, not for profit fundraising foundation that will yield a tax benefit to donors. Federal funds from the Saving America's Treasure's Act will be sought along with grants from other sources. I favor this approach because the modest Township budget is not sufficient to provide for a capital project such as the restoration.
I would appreciate your support and your vote on November 3rd. It will allow me to continue working toward a fiscally responsible, "do it right" restoration of historic Township Hall.
Diana Nazelli
3. STATEMENT FROM STEVE THOMAS, CANDIDATE FOR CHAGRIN FALLS TRUSTEE
I am seeking re-election as a Township Trustee to save Township Hall as a community center and as a venue for arts and cultural events in a fully restored facility. While this task will require significant expenditures for proper planning and eventual construction, my past service demonstrates the capacity to accomplish these goals.
During my 20 years of service as a Trustee, the Township has generated in excess of $3.6 million from public and private sources - who do not pay real estate taxes in Chagrin Falls Village - to improve the community. Water lines, historic Falls Road, N. Main Street resurfacing and land for the MetroParks are lasting, major township-village collaborations of which I am proud and seek more. Our Township is the smallest unincorporated political subdivision in the State of Ohio. But while the Township is small, our accomplishments are large.
I embrace the opportunity for a public airing of the need to properly restore Township Hall. Our opponents’ emphasis on maintaining Township Hall sharpens the debate. But when they argue money for planning would have been better spent on repairs, I think it odd they are not better informed. Perhaps because they have never attended a single Trustees' meeting, they did not know the main floor of the hall was completely refinished and the cupola was restored and repainted this year.
And perhaps because they wish to ignore the most recent routine review of Township finances by the office of Ohio State Auditor Mary Taylor, they and their supporters fail to acknowledge her finding that Township expenditures of recent estate tax revenues were made "in furtherance of Township Hall renovation planning".
The current Trustees favor fixing Township Hall right, and doing it once. We maintain a modestly growing cash reserve for repairs that cannot be delayed, while deferring non-urgent repairs that would be duplicated by renovations. Our plans in preparation for a private fundraising campaign will be where the rubber meets the road in any long-term plan for a renovated Township Hall.
I pledge to taxpayers my best efforts to renovate the hall with maximum reliance on private fundraising, in accordance with a well-thought-out plan developed during four separate meetings of government and civic leaders in 2006 and 2007.
I ask for re-election because the current Trustees are best positioned to maintain the momentum and save Township Hall.
Steve Thomas
1. Vote on Endorsement of Cuyahoga County Charter Reform Issue #6
(The following endorsement is from the independent, non-partisan League of Women Voters.)
I. BALLOT QUESTION # 6 : "Shall a county charter be adopted, providing for an elected county executive, an elected county prosecutor, eleven county council members elected by district, and all other officers appointed by the county executive whose appointments are subject to the confirmation by council and who shall serve at the pleasure of the county executive...?"
The League of Women Voters recommends: VOTE YES! Here's why:
Separation of Legislative (policy-making) from Executive (administrative) powers permits numerous effective checks and balances to hinder or prevent overreaching by a single strong County leader, while providing Ohio's largest county with executive focus and visible, accountable leadership.
A Council of 11 will represent the county's diverse districts and have the power to pass ordinances, investigate wrongdoing in the bureaucracy, and debate County policies in the open.
Appointing rather than electing 7 of the 8 "row offices" (Recorder, Auditor, Sheriff, Coroner, Engineer, Clerk of Courts and Treasurer) leads to a unified, professionally administered executive branch that greatly reduces patronage, duplication and waste.
New safeguards against corruption and abuse of power include mandatory internal audits, centralized employment standards, a code of ethics covering conflicts of interest, a whistle-blower mandate, possible recall elections, and a charter amendment process.
Powerful new focus on both economic development and regional collaboration brings limited Home Rule flexibility that will enable new initiatives to reverse county decline.
This charter is backed by 53,000 petition signatures and a bipartisan group of political and civic leaders including the League of Women Voters. It is drawn from the best features of the Summit County charter, the 1996 Barber Commission draft, the Municipal League's Model County Charter, and suggestions by the drafting group, municipal law specialists, and other contributors. Diverse opinions were sought, respected and incorporated.
2. STATEMENT FROM DIANA NAZELLI, CANDIDATE FOR CHAGRIN FALLS TRUSTEE
As Township Trustee for the past eight years, I have protected the assets of the Township, including historic Falls Road and our historic Township Hall.
On completion of the Falls Rd project in 2005, the Trustees turned to the restoration of Township Hall. From the beginning, I have advocated a "do it right" approach. Prior to the time that I became a Trustee, the Township had not consulted with historic specialists and spent money on a handicapped access elevator that was not protected from the elements and collapsed in an ice storm. A handicapped access restroom was completed that does not adequately accommodate wheelchairs. In addition, well-meaning repairs to the exterior brick caused more problems than they solved because inappropriate materials were used.
I bring experience and knowledge regarding historic preservation to the office of Trustee. I have insisted upon a “do it right” approach to the restoration of the 1847 historic building that I feel it deserves. The building does not need any quick fixes; all maintenance is up to date. Together with other Trustees, I have consulted with contractors and historic architects. Their assessment is that, although the building needs restoration and updating, it will remain solid for the foreseeable future in its current condition.
Because of my work, a long-term plan has been put into place for the restoration of Township Hall. Several sources of funding will be needed in order to succeed but the plan will not burden taxpayers - even though it is a publicly owned building. The plan includes a private, not for profit fundraising foundation that will yield a tax benefit to donors. Federal funds from the Saving America's Treasure's Act will be sought along with grants from other sources. I favor this approach because the modest Township budget is not sufficient to provide for a capital project such as the restoration.
I would appreciate your support and your vote on November 3rd. It will allow me to continue working toward a fiscally responsible, "do it right" restoration of historic Township Hall.
Diana Nazelli
3. STATEMENT FROM STEVE THOMAS, CANDIDATE FOR CHAGRIN FALLS TRUSTEE
I am seeking re-election as a Township Trustee to save Township Hall as a community center and as a venue for arts and cultural events in a fully restored facility. While this task will require significant expenditures for proper planning and eventual construction, my past service demonstrates the capacity to accomplish these goals.
During my 20 years of service as a Trustee, the Township has generated in excess of $3.6 million from public and private sources - who do not pay real estate taxes in Chagrin Falls Village - to improve the community. Water lines, historic Falls Road, N. Main Street resurfacing and land for the MetroParks are lasting, major township-village collaborations of which I am proud and seek more. Our Township is the smallest unincorporated political subdivision in the State of Ohio. But while the Township is small, our accomplishments are large.
I embrace the opportunity for a public airing of the need to properly restore Township Hall. Our opponents’ emphasis on maintaining Township Hall sharpens the debate. But when they argue money for planning would have been better spent on repairs, I think it odd they are not better informed. Perhaps because they have never attended a single Trustees' meeting, they did not know the main floor of the hall was completely refinished and the cupola was restored and repainted this year.
And perhaps because they wish to ignore the most recent routine review of Township finances by the office of Ohio State Auditor Mary Taylor, they and their supporters fail to acknowledge her finding that Township expenditures of recent estate tax revenues were made "in furtherance of Township Hall renovation planning".
The current Trustees favor fixing Township Hall right, and doing it once. We maintain a modestly growing cash reserve for repairs that cannot be delayed, while deferring non-urgent repairs that would be duplicated by renovations. Our plans in preparation for a private fundraising campaign will be where the rubber meets the road in any long-term plan for a renovated Township Hall.
I pledge to taxpayers my best efforts to renovate the hall with maximum reliance on private fundraising, in accordance with a well-thought-out plan developed during four separate meetings of government and civic leaders in 2006 and 2007.
I ask for re-election because the current Trustees are best positioned to maintain the momentum and save Township Hall.
Steve Thomas
Monday, September 28, 2009
Sept. 16, 2009 Meeting at Congressman LaTourette’s Office with his Aide, Dino DiSanto
Attending from Patriots for Change and Change is Coming to Geauga County: Ed Fire, Judy Kramer, Lynne Rustad, Ray DiCarlo, Pat Sommers, Fred Welty, Elliott Berenson, Kathy Leavenworth, Diana Nazelli, Diana Pearson, Kathy Flora Thompson, Marcia Carpenter, Gail Larson, Becky Thomas
Lynne: We've been active in health care reform. We prefer single payer but realize it is not on the table. Our biggest concern is having a robust public option.
Dino: The public option is not ruled out completely – he is open to anything. However, there are 3 committees working on policy so HB 3200 is still in flux. Cost is his main concern.
We have received 70% of our concerns from constituents who receive insurance from employers – they see no relief for them in the present Bill. Also, they are worried about cuts in Medicare.
He wishes our public option wasn’t so closely aligned with the Canadian system, and more like Sweden’s or the Netherlands where the government covers catastrophic health costs, its mandated for everyone, it subsidizes the poor, and insurance companies compete for other people and for supplemental insurance plans.
Ed: What will the Bill be? Is it going to just be a party line vote?
Dino: This version will probably be a party line vote because the Dems have the votes. Nancy Pelosi has not reached out to the Republicans, even though the President has.
Lynne: To many constituents, a government sponsored, single- payer plan such as Medicare looks best. Has Rep. LaTourette even considered it?
Dino: Yes, but it means rationing health care, and that would be the only affordable way.
(We pointed out that insurance companies already ration health care)
Lynne: Medicare and the VA system are already single payer systems.
Dino: True but the veterans we hear from are scared they are going to lose care. They complain they cannot use the Cleveland Clinic as it is.
Lynne: You only hear complaints. When I worked for the VA people were generally happy with care.
Judy: Does LaTourette have familiarity with other countries’ systems?
Dino: Yes, but I have a personal interest because of family. My mom had no insurance when my dad died. A public plan would help people with no insurance or the under insured. However, our constituency doesn’t care about this, they are just worried about losing their benefits. Employers will ask employees to go on the public plan if it is less costly.
Ray: People are losing their insurance anyway.
Dino: You are right, but people don’t want to have to choose. They want to be taken care of by their employer.
Fred: You hear many individual complaints. What is more relevant is do we want health care to take 20% of GDP in the future. Our medications and procedures must be evaluated for efficacy.
Marcia: Gave an example of rising costs of treatment, and how doctor is honest and doesn’t try to push unnecessary treatments on her if they are not going to work. People have to see how much waste there is in Medicare.
Dino: People see reevaluating treatment, procedures and medications as a severe change to our system. The perception is that this is rationing or death panels. The Bill is having problems because there is no proof that it will reduce costs. Preventive health/wellness isn’t scored as reducing costs. They only look at the last 6 months of a person’s life which is the most expensive time.
Fred: So years of a healthy life count for nothing.
Pat: A recent article in the New Yorker on health care points to abuse of resources. We need changes in our society so we don’t do unnecessary treatments etc. at the end of life.
Dino: The CBO report conflicts with the Bill. We need to control costs and we need tough decisions about care. Our president is a gifted orator, but he needs to reach people who have health insurance with more details. Our district is the wealthiest one in OH, and probably has the least unemployment. Therefore, people who have insurance do not want change.
Kathy: Shouldn’t LaTourette be trying to educate his constituents about the facts?
Marcia: It is his duty to inform constituents, not use fear.
Dino: We have the highest enrollment of people on Medicare Advantage. They don’t want to lose that. The Bill is ever changing, so it is difficult to inform people about what is in it in an up- to- date manner.
Elliott: Where is the morality in this Bill? It is immoral to deprive people in the country of health care.
Dino: It’s politics, and it’s embarrassing sometimes. Congress has become so partisan; we have a loss of statesmanship. LaTourette is a moderate, and there are very few of them. We have lost the ability to craft a Bill.
Lynne: Rationing is not the word we should be using. It’s actually intelligent, evidence-based medical management.
Dino: It would be good to reward doctors and hospitals for preventative medicine.
Lynne: The costs of insurance are huge – 30% administrative costs versus 4% Medicare.
Government cannot negotiate drug prices because of the bad bargain Obama is making currently and the Republicans made for the Medicare drug benefit.
Dino: Insurance companies are not as bad as drug companies.
Judy: People are afraid of change. How does LaTourette know what people are thinking?
Dino: We count phone calls and emails. We tally mail. We summarize visits in the office plus personal contact at meetings. For us, letters to the editor are not very effective. PERSONAL LETTERS CARRY THE MOST WEIGHT!
Ed: Health care is difficult, but it’s a moral issue. The way we treat the least among us says something about the character of our country. It’s also a leadership issue. Sometimes a politician needs to jeopardize political connections to stand for principals he/she believes in. It takes guts to cast a vote.
Dino: Please get back to me in the future with an email on this issue. Thanks for coming.
At conclusion of interview, petitions were delivered to DiSantis that Patriots and Geauga Change members had collected at the Geauga County Fair. He was also provided with articles that will hopefully inform him and Rep. LaTourette about health care reform options and broaden their perspective.
Lynne: We've been active in health care reform. We prefer single payer but realize it is not on the table. Our biggest concern is having a robust public option.
Dino: The public option is not ruled out completely – he is open to anything. However, there are 3 committees working on policy so HB 3200 is still in flux. Cost is his main concern.
We have received 70% of our concerns from constituents who receive insurance from employers – they see no relief for them in the present Bill. Also, they are worried about cuts in Medicare.
He wishes our public option wasn’t so closely aligned with the Canadian system, and more like Sweden’s or the Netherlands where the government covers catastrophic health costs, its mandated for everyone, it subsidizes the poor, and insurance companies compete for other people and for supplemental insurance plans.
Ed: What will the Bill be? Is it going to just be a party line vote?
Dino: This version will probably be a party line vote because the Dems have the votes. Nancy Pelosi has not reached out to the Republicans, even though the President has.
Lynne: To many constituents, a government sponsored, single- payer plan such as Medicare looks best. Has Rep. LaTourette even considered it?
Dino: Yes, but it means rationing health care, and that would be the only affordable way.
(We pointed out that insurance companies already ration health care)
Lynne: Medicare and the VA system are already single payer systems.
Dino: True but the veterans we hear from are scared they are going to lose care. They complain they cannot use the Cleveland Clinic as it is.
Lynne: You only hear complaints. When I worked for the VA people were generally happy with care.
Judy: Does LaTourette have familiarity with other countries’ systems?
Dino: Yes, but I have a personal interest because of family. My mom had no insurance when my dad died. A public plan would help people with no insurance or the under insured. However, our constituency doesn’t care about this, they are just worried about losing their benefits. Employers will ask employees to go on the public plan if it is less costly.
Ray: People are losing their insurance anyway.
Dino: You are right, but people don’t want to have to choose. They want to be taken care of by their employer.
Fred: You hear many individual complaints. What is more relevant is do we want health care to take 20% of GDP in the future. Our medications and procedures must be evaluated for efficacy.
Marcia: Gave an example of rising costs of treatment, and how doctor is honest and doesn’t try to push unnecessary treatments on her if they are not going to work. People have to see how much waste there is in Medicare.
Dino: People see reevaluating treatment, procedures and medications as a severe change to our system. The perception is that this is rationing or death panels. The Bill is having problems because there is no proof that it will reduce costs. Preventive health/wellness isn’t scored as reducing costs. They only look at the last 6 months of a person’s life which is the most expensive time.
Fred: So years of a healthy life count for nothing.
Pat: A recent article in the New Yorker on health care points to abuse of resources. We need changes in our society so we don’t do unnecessary treatments etc. at the end of life.
Dino: The CBO report conflicts with the Bill. We need to control costs and we need tough decisions about care. Our president is a gifted orator, but he needs to reach people who have health insurance with more details. Our district is the wealthiest one in OH, and probably has the least unemployment. Therefore, people who have insurance do not want change.
Kathy: Shouldn’t LaTourette be trying to educate his constituents about the facts?
Marcia: It is his duty to inform constituents, not use fear.
Dino: We have the highest enrollment of people on Medicare Advantage. They don’t want to lose that. The Bill is ever changing, so it is difficult to inform people about what is in it in an up- to- date manner.
Elliott: Where is the morality in this Bill? It is immoral to deprive people in the country of health care.
Dino: It’s politics, and it’s embarrassing sometimes. Congress has become so partisan; we have a loss of statesmanship. LaTourette is a moderate, and there are very few of them. We have lost the ability to craft a Bill.
Lynne: Rationing is not the word we should be using. It’s actually intelligent, evidence-based medical management.
Dino: It would be good to reward doctors and hospitals for preventative medicine.
Lynne: The costs of insurance are huge – 30% administrative costs versus 4% Medicare.
Government cannot negotiate drug prices because of the bad bargain Obama is making currently and the Republicans made for the Medicare drug benefit.
Dino: Insurance companies are not as bad as drug companies.
Judy: People are afraid of change. How does LaTourette know what people are thinking?
Dino: We count phone calls and emails. We tally mail. We summarize visits in the office plus personal contact at meetings. For us, letters to the editor are not very effective. PERSONAL LETTERS CARRY THE MOST WEIGHT!
Ed: Health care is difficult, but it’s a moral issue. The way we treat the least among us says something about the character of our country. It’s also a leadership issue. Sometimes a politician needs to jeopardize political connections to stand for principals he/she believes in. It takes guts to cast a vote.
Dino: Please get back to me in the future with an email on this issue. Thanks for coming.
At conclusion of interview, petitions were delivered to DiSantis that Patriots and Geauga Change members had collected at the Geauga County Fair. He was also provided with articles that will hopefully inform him and Rep. LaTourette about health care reform options and broaden their perspective.
Sept. 8, 2009 Steering Committee Minutes
Present: Judy Kramer, Lynne Rustad, Ed Fire, Becky Thomas, Lori Zaim, Debi Thomas, Bill Rowe, Elliott Berenson, Ray DiCarlo
Minutes Approved: August 11, 2009 minutes approved unanimously
Treasurer’s Report:
• Quarterly report deferred, Treasurer Kathy Kolcaba absent. Ray DiCarlo offered to audit the books again this year.
Communications/membership: (Zaim)
• As of 9/8/09 103 paid memberships (128 individual members).
• Trip again discussed as potential fundraiser. Lynne Rustad will develop e-mail survey to assess Patriots’ interest in such an activity and ask them to suggest possible destinations.
• No response to ad to share office. We will run the ad again this month in the newsletter before publishing in local papers.
Fund Raising:(Fire)
• The Craig’s list tutorial was well done. Five people attended.
• Lori Zaim will advertise our fund raising yard sale on Craig’s list.
• Yard Sale Donations – The Kolcaba’s barn is full. They still need volunteers to work on the set up and sale of items Sept. 12-13th.
• Football game/fundraiser at Diana Nazelli’s – The date is Nov. 21st during the day. Time to be announced. Debi Thomas will organize a football pool to raise money. Attendees should bring an appetizer and drinks to share.
• Next meeting for Fund Raising will be called by Ed Fire in November
Education: (Kramer)
• Sat. 919/09 10:00 AM – Pat Moore will speak about THE GREAT DEBATE: in celebration of our Constitution’s Birthday. Lori Zaim and Becky Thomas will bake cupcakes.
• Holiday Party will be held 12/3/09 at the Chagrin Valley Little Theater (second floor) at 6:30. Bring appetizers and drinks
• Education Comm. will meet at 10 AM on 9/9/09
Advocacy Report:(Thomas)
• Obama’s speech to school children – The partial censoring of his speech in Chagrin Falls caused many to write and call the Superintendent of schools
• Some Patriots will attend the next School Board meeting to share concern about President’s speech
• 10/9 7:00 Chagrin Falls Library – LWV presents ballot information about Cuyahoga County Reform
• 10/21 Candidates’ Meeting for local Chagrin Falls candidates will be held at Hamlet at 7:00. League of Women Voters is the sponsor.
• Health Care Vigil in Triangle Park was well attended (55) and many personal stories were shared. Pictures and report were sent to MoveOn
• Visit to LaTourette’s office 9/16/09. Eight of us met to discuss strategies for presenting information at this meeting. Another call for participants will go out this week. We will meet at 8:30 in the office parking lot to carpool.
• Several of us are registering voters next weekend at Dave’s Supermarket.
Health Reform Report:(DiCarlo)
• 9/30/09, 2 PM: Lynne Rustad will present a senior focus on health care reform at Hamlet.
• T R Reid’s The Healing of America: A Global Quest for Better, Cheaper, and Fairer Health Care may lend itself to book discussion in cooperation with Geauga Change this fall.
• Booth at Geauga Fair was not that well attended, but 140 signatures were collected for a national petition on single payer health care.
• 9/23/09 (Xenia) and 9/28/09 (Cleveland) “MadAsHell Doc’s” tour. These single-payer supporters who are doing a national “car-avan” tour will come to Ohio in September. The Cleveland event will be held at the Laborer’s Hall, 3250 Euclid Ave. Cleveland. Flier will be distributed electronically. Contact Ray Di Carlo for details.
ByLaws: Deferred until Sherri Culver returns to town
Other Business:
• Endorsements: In general we decided not to endorse candidates for a primary, but we will consider endorsements for the Nov. election at our next meeting (perhaps Diana Nazelli, Stephen Thomas, and the Cuyahoga County Reform Bill).
• Lynne Rustad will inform Rosemary Palmer of our decision.
Minutes Approved: August 11, 2009 minutes approved unanimously
Treasurer’s Report:
• Quarterly report deferred, Treasurer Kathy Kolcaba absent. Ray DiCarlo offered to audit the books again this year.
Communications/membership: (Zaim)
• As of 9/8/09 103 paid memberships (128 individual members).
• Trip again discussed as potential fundraiser. Lynne Rustad will develop e-mail survey to assess Patriots’ interest in such an activity and ask them to suggest possible destinations.
• No response to ad to share office. We will run the ad again this month in the newsletter before publishing in local papers.
Fund Raising:(Fire)
• The Craig’s list tutorial was well done. Five people attended.
• Lori Zaim will advertise our fund raising yard sale on Craig’s list.
• Yard Sale Donations – The Kolcaba’s barn is full. They still need volunteers to work on the set up and sale of items Sept. 12-13th.
• Football game/fundraiser at Diana Nazelli’s – The date is Nov. 21st during the day. Time to be announced. Debi Thomas will organize a football pool to raise money. Attendees should bring an appetizer and drinks to share.
• Next meeting for Fund Raising will be called by Ed Fire in November
Education: (Kramer)
• Sat. 919/09 10:00 AM – Pat Moore will speak about THE GREAT DEBATE: in celebration of our Constitution’s Birthday. Lori Zaim and Becky Thomas will bake cupcakes.
• Holiday Party will be held 12/3/09 at the Chagrin Valley Little Theater (second floor) at 6:30. Bring appetizers and drinks
• Education Comm. will meet at 10 AM on 9/9/09
Advocacy Report:(Thomas)
• Obama’s speech to school children – The partial censoring of his speech in Chagrin Falls caused many to write and call the Superintendent of schools
• Some Patriots will attend the next School Board meeting to share concern about President’s speech
• 10/9 7:00 Chagrin Falls Library – LWV presents ballot information about Cuyahoga County Reform
• 10/21 Candidates’ Meeting for local Chagrin Falls candidates will be held at Hamlet at 7:00. League of Women Voters is the sponsor.
• Health Care Vigil in Triangle Park was well attended (55) and many personal stories were shared. Pictures and report were sent to MoveOn
• Visit to LaTourette’s office 9/16/09. Eight of us met to discuss strategies for presenting information at this meeting. Another call for participants will go out this week. We will meet at 8:30 in the office parking lot to carpool.
• Several of us are registering voters next weekend at Dave’s Supermarket.
Health Reform Report:(DiCarlo)
• 9/30/09, 2 PM: Lynne Rustad will present a senior focus on health care reform at Hamlet.
• T R Reid’s The Healing of America: A Global Quest for Better, Cheaper, and Fairer Health Care may lend itself to book discussion in cooperation with Geauga Change this fall.
• Booth at Geauga Fair was not that well attended, but 140 signatures were collected for a national petition on single payer health care.
• 9/23/09 (Xenia) and 9/28/09 (Cleveland) “MadAsHell Doc’s” tour. These single-payer supporters who are doing a national “car-avan” tour will come to Ohio in September. The Cleveland event will be held at the Laborer’s Hall, 3250 Euclid Ave. Cleveland. Flier will be distributed electronically. Contact Ray Di Carlo for details.
ByLaws: Deferred until Sherri Culver returns to town
Other Business:
• Endorsements: In general we decided not to endorse candidates for a primary, but we will consider endorsements for the Nov. election at our next meeting (perhaps Diana Nazelli, Stephen Thomas, and the Cuyahoga County Reform Bill).
• Lynne Rustad will inform Rosemary Palmer of our decision.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
August 11, 2009 Steering Committee Meeting Minutes
Attendance: Judy Kramer, Bill Rowe, Ed Fire, Debbi Thomas, Becky Thomas, Ray DiCarlo, Lori Zaim, Lynne Rustad, Visitors Phyllis and Dave Larson
Meeting called to order at 9:30 by President Lynne Rustad
Minutes Approval: July 14, 2009 minutes approved
Treasurer’s Report:
• In writing: Balance $3649.64
Communications/Membership:
• Two meetings for Membership Committee coming up Sept. 17th and October 20th
• Total memberships as of today: 122 voting members and 92 paid memberships
• Membership Committee will begin work in Nov. for 2010. Phone banking will be done in office to reach all members. A possible change in dues will be considered.
Fund Raising Committee:
• Ed Fire reports: 8/29/09 Craig’s list tutorial 10:00 AM, Chagrin Falls Library for all members who want to sell things on Craig’s list and donate 50% profits to Patriots
• 9/12/09 Patriot’s yard sale at Kolcaba’s house 9 AM-1:00 PM. All profits go to Patriots
• Rowe/Bloomfield benefit to be tabled until further notice
• The Masonic Temple and the C.F. Historical Society are not available
• Subletting office: We will continue to try to find someone to share office space and rent
• Diana Nazelli will host a fund raiser/football game party at her house in November for the Ohio State/Michigan game
• An email will be sent by Lori Zaim to survey membership about a benefit trip for Patriots. Possible destinations: Las Vegas, Atlantic City, or somewhere closer.
• Local excursions could be planned for Patriots to raise money and to enjoy each other’s company
Advocacy:
• 8/11/09 Ed Fire, Judy Kramer, Lynne Rustad, Ray DiCarlo, Becky Thomas and Phyllis/Dave Larson will attend the Q@A with Senator LaTourette at Hamlet
• 8/17/09 Ed Fire, Judy Kramer and Phyllis/Dave Larson will meet with Senator Voinovich’s aide.
• 10/7/09 Meeting scheduled at Chagrin Falls Library 7:00 PM to learn about Cuyahoga County Reform bill on ballot in November. We will partner with LWV.
• No update as yet from Organizing Committee for Democrats for Cuyahoga County Reform
Education:
• 8/22, 10 AM - Three Cups of Tea discussion will be presented on at the library
• 8/26 - Those wanting to hear author, Greg Mortenson should car pool for the event at Severance Hall
• 9/17/09, 7:00 - Chagrin Falls Library with Pat Moore to celebrate the Constitution’s Birthday. Title: The Great Debate. Lori and Becky will bake cupcakes.
• Holiday Party will be held in December
Health Care:
• Ray DiCarlo met with John Conyers and other legislators in D.C. about single payer health insurance. He was gratified to be among strong supporters of this plan.
• 9/3-9/7/09 Patriots will volunteer at Geauga Fair to speak about health care reform
• 9/30/09 Lynne Rustad will speak at Hamlet on implications for seniors of health care plans under consideration
• 9/?/09 Book Discussion: The Healing of America: A Global Quest for Better, Cheaper, and Fairer Health Care will be held in partnership with Geauga Change
New Business:
• Diana Nazelli spoke of upcoming election for Township Trustee. She and Steve Thomas need our support
• If you want to have a coffee contact one of them
Next Steering Committee: Sept. 8th, 2009
Meeting Adjourned at 11 AM
Respectfully submitted,
Acting Secretary Becky Thomas
Meeting called to order at 9:30 by President Lynne Rustad
Minutes Approval: July 14, 2009 minutes approved
Treasurer’s Report:
• In writing: Balance $3649.64
Communications/Membership:
• Two meetings for Membership Committee coming up Sept. 17th and October 20th
• Total memberships as of today: 122 voting members and 92 paid memberships
• Membership Committee will begin work in Nov. for 2010. Phone banking will be done in office to reach all members. A possible change in dues will be considered.
Fund Raising Committee:
• Ed Fire reports: 8/29/09 Craig’s list tutorial 10:00 AM, Chagrin Falls Library for all members who want to sell things on Craig’s list and donate 50% profits to Patriots
• 9/12/09 Patriot’s yard sale at Kolcaba’s house 9 AM-1:00 PM. All profits go to Patriots
• Rowe/Bloomfield benefit to be tabled until further notice
• The Masonic Temple and the C.F. Historical Society are not available
• Subletting office: We will continue to try to find someone to share office space and rent
• Diana Nazelli will host a fund raiser/football game party at her house in November for the Ohio State/Michigan game
• An email will be sent by Lori Zaim to survey membership about a benefit trip for Patriots. Possible destinations: Las Vegas, Atlantic City, or somewhere closer.
• Local excursions could be planned for Patriots to raise money and to enjoy each other’s company
Advocacy:
• 8/11/09 Ed Fire, Judy Kramer, Lynne Rustad, Ray DiCarlo, Becky Thomas and Phyllis/Dave Larson will attend the Q@A with Senator LaTourette at Hamlet
• 8/17/09 Ed Fire, Judy Kramer and Phyllis/Dave Larson will meet with Senator Voinovich’s aide.
• 10/7/09 Meeting scheduled at Chagrin Falls Library 7:00 PM to learn about Cuyahoga County Reform bill on ballot in November. We will partner with LWV.
• No update as yet from Organizing Committee for Democrats for Cuyahoga County Reform
Education:
• 8/22, 10 AM - Three Cups of Tea discussion will be presented on at the library
• 8/26 - Those wanting to hear author, Greg Mortenson should car pool for the event at Severance Hall
• 9/17/09, 7:00 - Chagrin Falls Library with Pat Moore to celebrate the Constitution’s Birthday. Title: The Great Debate. Lori and Becky will bake cupcakes.
• Holiday Party will be held in December
Health Care:
• Ray DiCarlo met with John Conyers and other legislators in D.C. about single payer health insurance. He was gratified to be among strong supporters of this plan.
• 9/3-9/7/09 Patriots will volunteer at Geauga Fair to speak about health care reform
• 9/30/09 Lynne Rustad will speak at Hamlet on implications for seniors of health care plans under consideration
• 9/?/09 Book Discussion: The Healing of America: A Global Quest for Better, Cheaper, and Fairer Health Care will be held in partnership with Geauga Change
New Business:
• Diana Nazelli spoke of upcoming election for Township Trustee. She and Steve Thomas need our support
• If you want to have a coffee contact one of them
Next Steering Committee: Sept. 8th, 2009
Meeting Adjourned at 11 AM
Respectfully submitted,
Acting Secretary Becky Thomas
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
July 14, 2009 Steering Committee Minutes
Present:
Judy Kramer, Lynne Rustad, Ed Fire, Sherri Culver, Becky Thomas, Lori Zaim, Debi Thomas, Bill Rowe, George Lupone, Kathy Kolcaba
Minutes Approved for 6/9/09: Unanimous
Treasurer’s Report:
• Quarterly Balance 3529.00
• We have paid July’s rent.
• Fundraising activities will be essential to insure financial health of the organization through 2010.
Communications/Membership:
• From 6/14-7/14 there were 40 new paid members
• Total number of memberships for 2009 – 77
• Total number of members for 2009 – 105
• Number of members submitting dues payment with PayPal since it was introduced – 6
• Membership strategic planning will continue with a meeting 9/17 at 10 AM and 10/20 at 9 AM
Advocacy Report:
• Judy Kramer, George Lupone and Becky Thomas attended the Organizing Committee for Democrats of Cuyahoga County Party Reform. We were energized and optimistic about their plans for reforming the Democratic Party in Cuyahoga County.
• The Steering Committee made a commitment to attend the Forum organized by this Party Reform Committee. George Lupone made the motion, Judy Kramer seconded. The date will be established soon and emailed to all members.
• A possible panel discussion with experts about Pakistan and Afghanistan will be tabled for now. There is too much on the agenda this fall.
• We will co-sponsor a meeting with the LWV on Cuyahoga County Reform, the ballot issue for November. A date will be set in October as soon as we know the ballot language, etc.
Health Care Reform Report:
• We will co-sponsor a meeting with Geauga Change at the Geauga West Library on 7/22/09. Gary Benjamin from UHCAN will discuss reform issues at the state and federal level.
• Lynne Rustad will present a senior focus on health care at Hamlet in September.
• 9/22/09 Book Discussion: The Healing of America: A Global Quest for Better, Cheaper, and Fairer Health Care by TR Reid will be co-sponsored with Geauga Change
• Some members of the Saturday Coffee and Politics group are working on fliers to counter myths being circulated by opponents of Obama’s health care reform plan.
• Plans made to visit Senator Voinovich’s office in August to present Patriot’s position on much-needed public option for Health Care Bill. Although Patriots has favored a single payer system, we are aware that Congress has ignored this option, even though 70% of the American people prefer it. A public option could help to contain costs by fostering competition with the insurance companies. Judy Kramer will call for an appointment, and Ed Fire, Kathy Kolcaba, and Lynn Rustad will meet with the Senator.
Education:
• 7/22: Three Cups of Tea Book discussion.
• A fund raiser is planned for November presenting Bill Rowe, food/drink, and a possible auction
• Pat Moore will be contacted about presenting a program on the Constitution on Sept. l7th at the library
Fundraising:
• Ed Fire and Kathy Kolcaba volunteered to head a Fund Raising Committee. Potential committee members will be contacted.
Other Business:
• Sherri Culver will write an ad for the newsletter to try to find someone to share office space/expenses with us.
• Kathy Kolcaba will contact Larry Shibley about obtaining WiFi coverage for our office.
Becky Thomas - Acting Secretary
Judy Kramer, Lynne Rustad, Ed Fire, Sherri Culver, Becky Thomas, Lori Zaim, Debi Thomas, Bill Rowe, George Lupone, Kathy Kolcaba
Minutes Approved for 6/9/09: Unanimous
Treasurer’s Report:
• Quarterly Balance 3529.00
• We have paid July’s rent.
• Fundraising activities will be essential to insure financial health of the organization through 2010.
Communications/Membership:
• From 6/14-7/14 there were 40 new paid members
• Total number of memberships for 2009 – 77
• Total number of members for 2009 – 105
• Number of members submitting dues payment with PayPal since it was introduced – 6
• Membership strategic planning will continue with a meeting 9/17 at 10 AM and 10/20 at 9 AM
Advocacy Report:
• Judy Kramer, George Lupone and Becky Thomas attended the Organizing Committee for Democrats of Cuyahoga County Party Reform. We were energized and optimistic about their plans for reforming the Democratic Party in Cuyahoga County.
• The Steering Committee made a commitment to attend the Forum organized by this Party Reform Committee. George Lupone made the motion, Judy Kramer seconded. The date will be established soon and emailed to all members.
• A possible panel discussion with experts about Pakistan and Afghanistan will be tabled for now. There is too much on the agenda this fall.
• We will co-sponsor a meeting with the LWV on Cuyahoga County Reform, the ballot issue for November. A date will be set in October as soon as we know the ballot language, etc.
Health Care Reform Report:
• We will co-sponsor a meeting with Geauga Change at the Geauga West Library on 7/22/09. Gary Benjamin from UHCAN will discuss reform issues at the state and federal level.
• Lynne Rustad will present a senior focus on health care at Hamlet in September.
• 9/22/09 Book Discussion: The Healing of America: A Global Quest for Better, Cheaper, and Fairer Health Care by TR Reid will be co-sponsored with Geauga Change
• Some members of the Saturday Coffee and Politics group are working on fliers to counter myths being circulated by opponents of Obama’s health care reform plan.
• Plans made to visit Senator Voinovich’s office in August to present Patriot’s position on much-needed public option for Health Care Bill. Although Patriots has favored a single payer system, we are aware that Congress has ignored this option, even though 70% of the American people prefer it. A public option could help to contain costs by fostering competition with the insurance companies. Judy Kramer will call for an appointment, and Ed Fire, Kathy Kolcaba, and Lynn Rustad will meet with the Senator.
Education:
• 7/22: Three Cups of Tea Book discussion.
• A fund raiser is planned for November presenting Bill Rowe, food/drink, and a possible auction
• Pat Moore will be contacted about presenting a program on the Constitution on Sept. l7th at the library
Fundraising:
• Ed Fire and Kathy Kolcaba volunteered to head a Fund Raising Committee. Potential committee members will be contacted.
Other Business:
• Sherri Culver will write an ad for the newsletter to try to find someone to share office space/expenses with us.
• Kathy Kolcaba will contact Larry Shibley about obtaining WiFi coverage for our office.
Becky Thomas - Acting Secretary