2/22/12 I know I haven't mentioned the Republican Presidential Debates in quite some time, but tonight's debate should be worthy of a mention.  In the first debate in nearly a month, the four men left standing will once again take to the stage in Arizona to lay out to the American people why they should be the candidate to take on President Obama in the 2012 Presidential Elections.  I want to hear your thoughts on the debate at TSC@SENIOR.ORG.

2/21/12 With the TSC Board of Director's meeting scheduled for late March, I want to know what your most pressing issues are for the upcoming year.  This is the perfect time to get your wish lists to me so when the Board of Director's is in town for our annual meeting and "Lobbying Day", your opinions can be the forefront of our conversations.  As always, send me your ideas to TSC@SENIOR.ORG. 

2/20/12 I am so sorry there were no posts last week.  I was out all week ill which is a great time to remind everyone that it's never too late in the season to go out and get your flu shots.  And while you are at the pharmacy make sure and use your TSC Prescription Discount card.  And if you still aren't using the TSC card, send me an email today at TSC@SENIOR.ORG to get yours in the mail.

2/9/12   I mentioned this last week but just wanted to reiterate how important it is for all TSC members to contact me with your email address.  TSC is now emailing copies of our monthly Newsletter 'The Senior Class" and you don't want to miss this oportunity to be in the loop on Washington politics.  Please contact me today at TSC@SENIOR.ORG.

2/8/12   Sorry for the late post today.  I again was down on Capitol Hill attending a meeting of Washington DC's most conservative groups.  We here at TSC have a big year planned to make sure that all Seniors Coalition members are being represented fairly in Washington.  Stay tuned to this post for daily updates on our activities.

2/7/12   Heading down to Capitol Hill this afternoon to try and gain support for Lock Box Legislation.  Make sure and go to the TSC Action Center at the top of our home page on this website and have your voice heard by joining over 985,000 other senior citizens who have already signed our Lock Box Petition.

2/6/12   Hope you all had a great weekend.  Make sure and check our benefits page at the top of this website.  I have been getting tons of calls over the past several weeks from TSC members eager to join in on the savings from TSC's Prescription Drug Discount Cards.  Contact me today to get yours at TSC@SENIOR.ORG.

2/3/12   Happy Friday to you all.  We had a good week here at TSC visiting with some of the most conservative and influential groups on Capitol Hill.  I will be on the hill next week as well meeting with key staff members to push for the immediate repeal of the Estate Tax, or Death Tax as it is commonly referred too.  Also, if you haven't sent me an email to be including in our on line mailings of "The Senior Class", please contact me today to get in the loop.  TSC@SENIOR.ORG.  Have a great weekend!

2/2/12   I want to highlight TSC member John Wright from Bloomington, IL who called in yesterday to say, "It is so great to have a real person to talk to about senior's issues.  I have been a member of The Seniors Coalition for over 20 years and can not thank you enough for your work.  I receive your informative mailings and share them with everyone I know.  Thanks, and God bless!"  Thanks for the Call John.

1/31/12 Well I haven't commented on the Republican Presidential primaries is some time.  Today is the Florida primary and things have gotten down right nasty between the two front runners.  Do you think the winner in today's Republican primary in Florida will take the lead for good and head to the Republican National Convention as this years Presidential candidate?  Email me your thoughts at TSC@Senior.org. 

1/30/12 Hope you all had a wonderful weekend.  Please make sure and visit the TSC Action Center at the top of this website and sign all of TSC's petition programs.  Dr. Bridges has made a challenge to all TSC members to have at least one million signed petitions for each of our initiatives by the end of the year.  Make sure and have your voice heard today. 

1/27/12 Happy Friday to you all.  TSC will be offering a new feature to all Seniors Coalition members in the next week or so.  If you are currently not receiving issues of our Newsletter "The Senior Class", please contact me by email at TSC@SENIOR.ORG to get signed up to receive a copy each month via email.  Don't miss out on this informative tool to keep you up to date on what is going on in Washington.

1/26/12 Sorry that I didn't have the time to post a message yesterday, I was on Capitol Hill for most of the day meeting with some of the top conservative groups in Washington.  I also shot some new video footage highlighting our efforts here at The Seniors Coalition that should be available to watch on our YouTube channel within the next couple of days.  Stay tuned!!

1/24/12 I don't usually like to retread articles but today I came across an article that I thought would be helpful to all Seniors Coalition members.  Make sure and read this article so you can familiarize yourself with the 2012 Medicare changes.  http://foxbusiness.com/personal-finance/2012/01/19/medicare-changes-every-boomer-needs-to-know-about-for-2012/ 

1/23/12 Hope you all had a great weekend.  As I stated last week I am getting a lot of phone calls and emails asking for TSC Prescription Drug Discount Cards.  Just last week in Souix Falls SD at a Wal Mart pharmacy a TSC member saved a whopping 79.8% ($54.15) on a single prescription.  Make sure and email me today to get your TSC Prescription card at TSC@SENIOR.ORG. 

1/20/12 Today's message is to highlight TSC member Hugh McCord from Fairfield, OH.  Hugh called in to say, "Thank you so much for all the information that you have sent me over the last year, please keep it coming.  Please keep up the great work that you are doing for seniors.  Bless you and everyone at TSC for all that you do to keep seniors informed on what is going on in Washington."  Thanks for the call Hugh!

1/19/12 The Seniors Coalition has added a brand new feature to our website.  You can now view videos on TSC's YouTube video page.  Over the next couple of weeks look for instructional videos capturing TSC's staff in action.  You can view our YouTube page by clicking on the icon from the home page of this website.

1/18/12 Flu season is officially here and having been under the weather myself for the last couple of days, I wanted to use today's message to urge all TSC members who haven't already gotten a flu shot to go out and get yours as soon as possible.  Make sure and protect yourself this winter and get your flu shot today!

1/17/12 I hope that you all had a great Holiday weekend.  Today marks the first day of the Congressional fiscal year and I want to know what is your biggest priority for The Seniors Coalition in 2012?  Socail Security Lock Box legislation?  The repeal of the Death Tax?  Please send me your thoughts today at tsc@senior.org.

1/12/12 It looks like the word is finnaly getting out to all Seniors Coalition members about how much money you can save using the Seniors Coalition Prescription Discount Card.   I have been getting a number of calls lately requesting these cards and I urge all members to contact me at tsc@senior.org to get your card in the mail today!

1/11/12 Just got off the phone with Joseph from Sheboygan, WI who called to say, "I really appreciate the work that you do for seniors.  Please keep the pressure on Capitol Hill to ensure that my childrens children have the same opportunities in life that I had."  Thanks for the call Joseph, and rest assured we will keep on pressuring the politicians in Washington to do right by all American citizens.

1/10/12 2012 is in full swing and I wanted to urge all TSC members to visit the "TSC Action Center" and sign all our petitions.  Dr. Joe Bridges issued a challenge at the end of 2011 to garner a million signed petitions for all of our petition drives, and I intend to push until that goal is reached.  You can easily access the Action Center from the home page of this website.

1/9/12   With the New Hampshire primary set for tomorrow, Republican Presidential hopefuls escalated their attacks on front runner Mitt Romney.  It seems like Romney is clearly at the head of the slate considering he is being attacked by all challengers.  Do you think Mitt Romney has what it takes to defeat President Obama?  Send me your thougts today at tsc@senior.org. 

1/6/12   Since it's the first of the year I wanted to use today's message to remind all TSC members to visit the member benefit page to see all the savings you can get by being a member of The Seniors Coalition.  Also please contact me at tsc@senior.org to get your free TSC prescription drug discount card and start saving lots of money everytime you go to the pharmacy.

1/4/12   It was a record breaking night in Iowa last night with Mitt Romney edging Rick Santorum by only 8 votes to win the Iowa Caucus.  This is the closest margin of victory in the history of the Iowa Caucus and has begun to shape the field for the 2012 Presidential election.  Now it's off to New Hampshire for the second leg of a long race.  Send me your thoughts on last nights historical caucus at tsc@senior.org. 

1/3/12   I hope that you all had a very happy and enjoyable Holiday Season.   It's back to work here at The Seniors Coalition.  Tonight is the first major step in gaining the Republican Presidential nomination.  Who will win the Iowa caucus tonight and gain the early momentum?  Let me know your thoughts today at TSC@SENIOR.ORG. 

12/23/11  Happy Holidays to all Seniors Coalition members.  This is the last day of the year that I will be posting messages so I just wanted to say to all of you THANKS for all your support during 2011 and here's to an even better 2012!!  Have a wonderful Holiday season and a blessed New Year!!

12/22/11  With the Holiday Season officially here, I wanted to use today's message to thank each and every member of The Seniors Coalition for all of your help over the course of the last year.  It's truly a pleasure to do my job on a daily basis knowing that I am representing such a strong group of united senior citizens.  I look forward to working harder for you than ever in 2012.  Thanks again!

12/21/11  With the Senate already home for the Holidays and the House set to adjourn today, there seems to be no chance for any legislation to be passed that would extend the Payroll Tax Cut before it expires on December 31st.  The House of Representatives have officially sent back the Senate legislation that would have extended the payroll tax for two months.  And here we are as always, the American public, being overlooked as usual in favor of partisan politics. 

12/20/11  It looks like the Payroll Tax Cut extension has turned into a game of chicken between the Senate and the House of Representatives.  House Republicans last night have apparently scrapped a vote on the Senate passed two month extension to the Payroll Tax Cut.  With Friday's deadline looming, lets hope that these politicians can find a way to compromise and do right by the American people.  The House is currently debating this issue and I will keep you up to date on any late breaking news.

12/19/11  Over the weekend the Democratic led Senate passed a two month extension on the Payroll Tax Cut by a vote of 89-10.   Although the Senate never voted on a House bill that would have extended the Payroll Tax for a full year, the Senate's bill is now apparently going to be voted on by the House tonight.  This is politics at it's best, Democrats kicking the can down the road and putting off the tough decisions for an 8th time this year.  It's time to stop stalling and holding the American people hostage and do your job!

12/16/11  President Obama and Labor Secretary Hilda Solis will hold a press conference today at noon to announce the President's "we can't wait" campaign.  Can't wait for what you may ask?  Can't wait to use his executive powers to "stimulate" the economy.  And his latest stimulations?  Forcing senior citizens to pay higher wages on "in home care".  When are seniors going to finally get some relief from this intrusive government interference in their lives?

12/15/11  House Republicans have introduced a new 1,219 page spending bill early Thursday morning which would keep the Government open past Friday, when current funding is scheduled to run out.  Here is the response by White House communications director Dan Pfeiffer, "Congress should pass a short-term continuing resolution as it has seven times already this year so that all parties will have an appropriate opportunity to consider and complete all of the critical budget and economic issues necessary to finish our responsibilities for the year."  SEVEN times this year?  I think its about time the Obama administration and the Democratic party stop stalling with politics and actually DO the job they were elected to do.

12/14/11  The House of Representatives voted yesterday on a bill to extend the Payroll Tax Cut and give the green light to the Keystone Pipeline, which passed by a marging of 234-193, and has been categorized as "shovel ready" and would employ almost 20,000 American workers immediately.  President Obama has threatened to veto this bill should it reach his desk, even though most of what is in the bill is exactly what the President has asked for.  It seems that the President is worried about environmentalists in his own party and the negative press this legislation may garner for his 2012 re-election bid.  With another potential government shutdown looming this Friday, is this really the time to hold the American citizens hostage while President Obama is busy protecting his own political future?

12/13/11  Well it looks like the House and Senate will be very busy during the next few weeks leading up to the Christmas recess.  There are key votes possible today including a bill that would extend the Payroll Tax cut, which directly affects Social Security.  TSC will follow this vote closely and post the results tomorrow.

12/12/11  I hope that you all had a great weekend.  It looks like the Republican primary Presidential debates are finally shaping up to be a two man battle.  Did you watch the debates this weekend?  Who did you think managed to stand out on Saturday night?  As always send me your thoughts at tsc@senior.org.

12/9/11  Happy Friday, as always.  The Seniors Coalition has had a very busy and productive week, and I hope that you all have been following closely.  Your voices and opinions are being trumpeted on Capitol Hill, and I hope you are all proud of the work we are doing on your behalf.  Have a great weekend and, as always, be safe!

12/8/11  I had a great meeting with Congressman Andy Harris (R-MD) today at the Capitol Hill Club.  Congressman Harris seemed quite interested in what issues senior citizens are concerned with heading into 2012.  I had the opportunity to raise several of your concerns ranging from legislation to finally enact a Social Security Lock Box, to the reform of how your annual CoLAs are computed. During our time together I also urged Congressman Harris to cosponsor several bills that are currently in Committees and waiting to be sent to the floor of Congress including H.R. 149, which would eliminate taxes on Social Security benefits, and H.R. 177, which would finally repeal the unpopular Death Tax.  Look for a full story on the website later today.

12/7/11  The Seniors Coalition has been invited to a very personal "Coffee with Congressman Andy Harris" tomorrow morning at the Capitol Hill Club.  I will personally be attending this meeting to discuss legislative and regulatory issues, and more specifically to gain the Congressman's support on issues vital to TSC members, like Lock Box Legislation and CoLA reform.  Look for a recap of my visit tomorrow morning.

12/6/11  While the Medicare premiums in 2012 will increase at what the Obama administration calls a "modest" 3.6%, I think the real issue here is are we being told the truth about how these savings are being paid for?  President Obama is again trying to decrease the Payroll Tax that funds Social Security by 3.1%.  Now if you couple that with former President Clinton's Social Security tax that seniors are forced to pay now, how much of a break are seniors really getting?  I think we should be very careful how we react to this news.  Lets all remember that the 2012 Presidential elections are right around the corner and we should all be wary of "election year politics".

12/5/11  I hope that everyone had a wonderful weekend.  Looks like the 2012 Republican Presidential candidates list has gotten smaller as Hermain Cain has announced a suspension to his Presidential bid.  TSC is following the ongoing race closely with all of its twists and turns.  Who do you think will end up with the 2012 GOP Presidential primary victory?  Send me your opinions today at tsc@senior.org.

12/2/11  Happy Friday and I hope that everyone gets out and has a great weekend.  I wanted today's message to focus on TSC's membership benefits, and more specifically, The Seniors Coalition's Prescription Drug Card plan.  I urge you all to contact me as soon as possible to get yourself a PDC card and start saving money every time you go to your pharmacy.  Just last week, right around the corner in Falls Church, VA a TSC member went into a Harris Teeter pharmacy and saved a whopping 74.7% on one single perscription.  That was a savings of $49.26 off of the original price of $65.95.  Please get in touch with me at tsc@senior.org to get in on these incredible savings as soon as possible.

11/30/11  EXTRA!  The Seniors Coalition scores another victory!  In the May edition of TSC's newsletter, "The Senior Class" (Vol. XXII, Issue 4), President & CEO Dr. Joe Bridges predicted:  "Donald Berwick's tenure as head of Medicare will come to an end this year."  I am pleased to say TSC's campaign to "Dump Berwick" has succeeded.  Berwick has announced that Friday will be his last day at the helm of Medicare, where President Obama installed him without Congressional approval using a so-called "recess appointment",  Berwick was Obama's chief henchman, overseeing the dismantlement of Medicare in order to pave the way for Obamacare.  Now we have to stop Berwick's designated replacement, Marilyn Tavenner (who is just as bad if not worse), and then go on to repeal Obamacare.  Stay tuned for more information.  In the meantime, you can read the May newsletter article here:  http://www.senior.org/images/senior%20class%20-%20may%202011.pdf  

11/30/11  I wanted to share a story I read yesterday about a senior citizen in Seattle Washington with a guilty conscience.  It seems this gentleman stole $20-$30 dollars from a Sears register in the 1940s.  Well over the weekend this man's guilt had finally reached a boiling point because he marched into the same Sears with an envelope with $100 dollars in it and a note explaining what he had done and that he wanted to pay back the money and right his wrong.  Now only imagine if the politicians in Washington DC could take a clue from this gentleman and repay the billions of dollars that they have stolen from the Social Security Trust Fund.  Don't hold your breath on that one. 

11/29/11  Today I want to recognize a TSC member that called in yesterday to tell me what she was thankful for over the Holidays.  Dorothy from Texas called in to say "I am thankful over the Holidays that I am a member of The Seniors Coalition and I can't tell you how comforting it is to know that we, as seniors, have The Seniors Coalition fighting the politicians on Capitol Hill to make sure seniors aren't taken advantage of."  Thanks for the call Dorothy, and I will continue to fight for you to the best of my ability.

11/28/11  Well I hope that everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving and a long weekend to recuperate.  Back to business here at The Seniors Coalition.  As I stated in an earlier post last week, Dr. Bridges has issued a challenge to all Seniors Coalition members to receive over a million signed petitions for each of our major petition drives, such as CoLA reform, Lock Box Legislation and Totalization.  Make sure and go to the TSC Action Center today and sign all of TSC's petitions.  Please don't be left out of this monumental push to get the attention of Congress once and for all.

11/22/11  While the deadline for the Super Committee to officially come up with a deal is not until Wednesday at midnight, both sides have officially conceded that they failed.  Now it's time for the finger pointing as usual.  Both sides are openly blaming each other and the people that really lose are the American citizens.  Please get active and make sure and call your Congressman and Senators today.  Make sure they know that business as usual in Washington is no longer acceptable behavior.  202-224-3121.

11/21/11  Hope you all had a great weekend.  Looks like the weekend wasn't so good for the Congressional Super Committee.  Compromise seems to be a lost art on Capitol Hill.  With most of Congress shut down for the Thanksgiving break, lets hope the twelve members of the Super Committee can come together and avoid across the board cuts that could prove disastrous.  Look for a major announcement from the Super Committee at some point today.  I will make sure and post this information as soon as it is released.

11/18/11  Dr. Bridges has issued a challenge and I am fully committed to work until our goal is reached.  Seniors are angry and frustrated and I intend to make sure all your voices are heard.  Make sure and go to the TSC action center and sign all our petitions to give me as much leverage as you can to take to Capitol Hill.  Have a great weekend and be safe!

11/17/11  Here at The Seniors Coalition we are following the Congressional Supercommittee negotiations closely.  I hope you all are doing the same thing because what seems to be the biggest target for spending cuts is our current Social Security system.  Now I know that we all have to tighten our belts in this tough economic time, but it sure seems like seniors are being targeted often and if the Social Security Trust Fund wasn't raided in the first place by Congress, this issue wouldn't even be on the table.  As always, make sure and call your elected officials today and tell them to leave Social Security alone!  202-224-3121.

11/16/11  I want to highlight a member in today's post.  Jack from Arizona called in today to say "Thank you so much for all your help and your continued work to further the rights of senior citizens like me.  We need someone in our corner like The Seniors Coalition to keep the politicians in Washington on their toes."  Thanks for taking the time to call in Jack, and we will continue to do everything we can to make sure your voice is heard!

11/15/11  Here we go again.  Congress is once again up against the clock for a potential shutdown this Friday.  Why is it that it always has to come down to the last minute with these politicians.  Make sure and call your elected officials today and demand that they get their act together to avoid a possible government shutdown at 202-224-3121.   http://www.cnn.com/2011/11/14/politics/federal-spending-bill/index.html?hpt=hp_bn3 

11/14/11  Hope you all had a great weekend.  I have been fielding a lot of calls from the Congressional Federal Credit Union which tells me that you are taking my advice and finding out all they have to offer you.  Make sure and check our benefits page and take FULL advantage of all of TSC's member benefits.

11/11/11  Happy Veterans Day to everyone.  Thank you to all that have served this great country and please make sure and give thanks to those that you see today who have served.  Had some good Hill visits yesterday.  Stopped by Presidential hopeful Ron Paul's office as well as Senator Vitter's office and Senator John Boozman as well.  Have a great weekend!

11/10/11  Well yesterday I told you all to watch last nights debates to see if anyone could seperate themselves from the pack.  And seperate they did.  Did you watch last night and what did you think of the spectacle?  I am heading down to Capitol Hill today to continue to fight for Lock Box legislation and a revamped CoLA computation.  Make sure and check back here tomorrow for a progress report.

11/9//11  Tonights Republican Presidential debates will be held in Michigan and will be one of the most anticipated debates to date.  I will be following this debate closely and I hope that you all will as well.  It is a critical time for each candidate to find a way to seperate themselves from the pack.  I want your feedback tomorrow at tsc@senior.org.

11/8/11  I just came across more news regarding your annual CoLA.  This article just goes to show you what TSC has been saying for over a year, Congress needs to pass the 3% guaranteed CoLA increase NOW.  Stop throwing senior citizens under the bus and do what's right.  This article is a must read.  http://news.yahoo.com/formula-reduce-social-security-increase-201418202.html    

11/8/11  With the Republican Presidential nomination still up for grabs, things seem to be getting serious.  I am following these debates closely and I hope that you all are too.  Next years election is one of the most important elections in decades.  Read this article to get a glimpse of the "gloves" coming off.  http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2011/11/07/bachmann-targets-frugal-socialists-in-republican-party/                             

11/7/11  Hope you all had a great weekend.  Gonna start off the week with a phone call I just took from Walter from Louisiana.  Walter called in to say "I am very supportive of the work that you are doing.  Keep up the pressure on the politicians in Washington to make sure that they do the right thing, especially with the 2012 elections right around the corner."  Thanks Walter, we will do just that!

11/4/11  Happy Friday to everyone and as always I hope everyone has a great weekend.  The Seniors Coalition's 2012 membership renewal drive has been mailed out so make sure to get your annual dues back to TSC so you can continue to have your voices heard on Capitol Hill.

11/3/11  Oh boy, this can't end well.  With the Republican Presidential Nominee race heating up, things are about to get a little ugly.  Lets all hope that the finger pointing can stop and the candidates can start focusing on more important issues that face our country right now, like a Lock Box on the Social Security Trust Fund.  Have a quick read of this article and let me know what you think at TSC@SENIOR.ORG.  http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2011/nov/2/cain-says-perry-staff-behind-harassment-story/ 

11/2/11  The Seniors Coalition's Prescription Drug Card program is something that you should all be taking advantage of.  Just last week a TSC member in Floyds Knob, IN saved a whopping $80.74 on a single prescription.  Please contact me to get your card and start saving today.  TSC@SENIOR.ORG

11/1/11  November is here and that means one year until next years presidential election.  Have you been following the early Presidential debates?  Email me at tsc@senior.org and let me know who you think should be our next President.

10/31/11  Happy Halloween to everyone.  Hope you all had a wonderful weekend.  To those of you on the east coast I hope that all are safe after a very rare October storm that dropped up to 26 inches in some spots on the east coast.  I know you are all eagerly awaiting the Medi-Care premium news and I just want to let you know that I am following closely and will have the news to you as SOON as it is available.  Keep your fingers crossed!

10/28/11  Another Friday is upon us and winter is on her way.  Make sure and get out this weekend and enjoy the beautiful Fall weather, it won't be here long.  We had a very productive week at TSC and I plan on being on Capitol Hill again next week.  Make sure and check here daily for updates on my Hill visits.  Have a great weekend and be safe!

10/27/11  Please make sure and visit the TSC Action Center to participate in our petition drives.  We have almost a million "Lock Box" petition signatures and over one hundred thousand CoLA reform petiton signatures but we would love to have everyone on board with our petition drives to make sure that each of your voices are heard on Capitol Hill. 

10/26/11  Well here is just another example to add to an extensive list of reasons why Americans are wary of our Federal Government.  The headline says it all, "State Department spends $70,000 on Obama books".  Wow!  Have a read for yourself.  http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2011/oct/state-department-buys-70000-worth-obama-memoir/ 

10/25/11  I just got off the phone with Elizabeth from Washington who called in to ask about her 2012 CoLA.  "When will we know what the Medicare premiums are going to be for 2012?"  That is a great question, and as TSC has been saying for months now, the real key to how much seniors will receive in this years CoLA raise.  I have been told by several sources on Capitol Hill that this information will be released within a couple of weeks.  I am monitoring this issue intensely and will have the exact rates for everyone as soon as they are released.

10/24/11  As always I hope that everyone had a wonderful Fall weekend.  Please make sure and go to the TSC Benefits page to see what we have to offer.  As I have said in the past, you really should read all about the Congressional Federal Credit Union to see what they have to offer.  Why not enjoy all the banking conveniences that members of Congress enjoy.  Also, please make sure and contact me at TSC@SENIOR.ORG to receive your Seniors Coalition Prescription Drug Cards.  You won't believe how much money you can save on your prescription drugs.

10/19/11  Well the news is out and there is something to be happy about, the government announced today that seniors will receive a 3.6% CoLA starting in 2012.  Here's the catch, Medicare premiums will most likely be hiked and nullify most, if not all, of any increase in your social security checks.  Now how much the Medicare premiums will go up is not yet known and won't be known for weeks.  TSC has been saying for months now that you would most likely get a 2012 CoLA but that it would basically be erased by the rise in Medicare premiums.  Here is a good article that everyone should read on today's news.  http://money.cnn.com/2011/10/19/news/economy/social_security_cola_increase/index.htm?hpt=hp_t1  

10/18/11  Bonus update, I just got off the phone with one of my Hill contacts and it seems that there will be an announcement on your annual Social Security CoLA tomorrow.  Initial reports are that it is possible that seniors will be receiving a 3.5% to 3.7% CoLA.  Here is where we need to be careful, what we all need to really watch is how much of an increase there will be in your medi-care premiums.  Please check back to this site tomorrow for more updates, as I will be following this issue closely and updating any new information as soon as it is available to me.

10/18/11  I had a great meeting with the staff of Senator Vitter yesterday.  I am happy to announce that The Seniors Coalition and Senator Vitter will combine forces and make a push for cosponsors to Senator Vitter's Senate Bill 123, the Social Security Lock Box Act.  Make sure and call your Senators today at 202-224-3121 and urge them to cosponsor S123.

10/17/11  As always I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend.  We have a busy week planned at TSC.  I will be on Capitol Hill again today meeting with Senator Vitter's staff offering support for Senate bill 123 (Socail Security Lock Box Act of 2011). 

10/14/11  Just got back from my Hill visits today and I again met with the Legislative assistant for Congressman Aaron Schock of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Social Security.  I am now in the process of trying to have a representative from TSC  testify at next weeks hearing on the annual CoLA legislation.  I also stopped by Congressman Ron Paul's office to lend support to his bill H.R.219 "Social Security Preservation Act".  You are being represented on Capitol Hill and should rest assured that I will continue to fight for your rights until your voices have been heard.  As always, have a wonderful weekend!

10/13/11  The Seniors Coalition had our annual Board of Directors meeting on Tuesday.  Some of the primary focuses during this meeting were the 2010 financial audit which was prepared by two seperate CPA firms.  This is a question that gets asked a lot and I am happy to report that in 2010, over 78% of all funds raised by TSC last year went directly to our public education and advocacy programs. 

10/12/11  Well the Republican Presidential debates are starting to really heat up.  Did you watch the debates in New Hampshire last night?  I would love to hear your thoughts.  Email them to me at tsc@senior.org.

10/11/11  Interesting story in the Washington Times today that I wanted to share with everyone.  This is a good indication of why the American people seem to have lost trust when it comes to our Congressmen and Senators.  As always please let me know your thoughts at tsc@senior.org.  http://thewashingtontimes.com/news/2011/oct/10/pelosi-disclosure-belated-in-husbands-land-deal/ 

10/10/11  Good morning and I hope you all had a wonderful weekend.  With more Hill visits scheduled this week, I ask that everyone visit the TSC Action Center here on the TSC website and make sure and sign all of our petitions.  We currently have 958,173 signed "Lock Box" petitions and it would be great to have that number over a million by Friday for my Hill visits. 

10/7/11  Just a reminder that the Congressional Federal Credit Union is again on board with The Seniors Coalition as a member benefit.  Please make sure and go to the benefits page and learn how many banking options they offer.  And remember, you can receive the same benefits as members of the US Congress.  This really is an offer you shouldn't pass on.

10/6/11  Just got off the phone with a new member of The Seniors Coalition.  Iris from Fort Walton Beach called in to say "My pastor has been telling me I have to be a member of The Seniors Coalition for months.  I trust him as much as anyone in my life so I took his advice and joined, and I couldn't be happier.  Please keep up the work you are doing for seniors."  We sure will Iris, and thanks for the call.

10/5/11  As I mentioned on Monday, I was on Capitol Hill yesterday visiting several offices of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Social Security.  With almost 1,000,000 signatures for our on going "Lock Box" petition, as well as over 100,000 CoLA petitions, I think it's safe to say your voice was heard.  That is why it is so important to stay active in all of TSC's petition drives.  This process does work!

10/4/11  Please get in touch with me today to get your Seniors Coalition Prescription Discount Drug Card.  You must get in on the savings.  A TSC member in Illinois went into a Wal Mart Pharmacy just last week and saved $99.29 on ONE Prescription.  That is a savings of 72.7%.   As always I can be reached at TSC@Senior.org.

10/3/11  I hope you all had a wonderful weekend.  This week I will be making visits to Capitol Hill, hitting up Congressional offices of members on the Ways and Means Committee on Social Security with the results of over 100,000 signatures for CoLA reform.   Keeping with Friday's theme, this WEEK your voices will be heard.  As always, make sure and call your Congressman and Senators demanding the reinstatement of your CoLAs (202-224-3121).

9/30/11  Happy Friday to everyone and as always make sure you get outside this weekend and enjoy the beautiful Fall weather.  Today at TSC I am getting your petition responses together with carefully scripted letters to each and every member of the US Senate demanding the immediate reinstatement of your deserved CoLA.   Your voices are being heard in Washington TODAY!

9/28/11  Todays edition of the mailbag is a letter to The Seniors Coalition from Agnes from Pennsylvania.  Agnes wrote, "I have been a member of The Seniors Coalition for over 5 years and appreciate all that you do for us seniors.  Please put pressure on Congress to restore our CoLAs.  For some of us it can mean the difference in eating at the end of the month or having our lights on."  This is exactly why we keep fighting so hard day in and day out.  For people like Agnes, and all seniors across America.

9/27/11  When will the politicians learn that threatening the American citizens to further their own agendas is not only irresponsible, but just wrong.  Read this article and tell me where you stand via email at tsc@senior.org.  http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2011/09/27/cnn-poll-majority-say-neither-partys-policies-good-for-country/more-177899 

9/23/11  Please take the time to send me an email and request The Seniors Coalition prescription discount drug cards.  Some of the savings are amazing.  Just last week a TSC member used their card at a safeway pharmacy in Vancouver, WA and saved a whopping 85.1%,  That was a savings of $76.62.  Get in on the savings today at tsc@senior.org.

9/22/11  Todays edition of the mailbag is from Virginia from Balitimore, Maryland.  Virginia wrote in to The Seniors Coalition to say, "I pray for all of you in your efforts to reclaim OUR AMERICA.  God bless you all and with the prayers and efforts of true Americans, we will be able to achieve that which we as Americans want for our children and grandchildred, our CONSTITUTIONAL FREEDOMS!"  Thank you Virginia. 

9/21/11  The government has withheld your CoLA's for the last two years and argue that everyone must cut corners to survive in this hostile economy.  Yet they have the funds to dine on $16 dollar muffins and $8 cups of coffee. "Do as I say, not as I do", would be the montra on Capitol Hill.  Please read this article and let me know your thoughts at tsc@senior.org.  http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2011/sep/20/taxpayers-foot-bill-justice-department-16-muffins/            

9/20/11  Now I know that nobody wants to have their taxes raised, and I totally understand that.  But it's articles like the one attached below that just make our elected officials look so unbelievable out of touch with the average American, much less the senior citizens that live and count on Social Security every month.  Please read this article and let me know your thoughts at tsc@senior.org.  http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/09/19/does-it-really-cost-this-tea-party-congressman-200-000-to-feed/?icid=maing-grid7|main5|d|17|sec1_Ink2|97236 

 

9/19/11  The President announced his debt plan today and wouldn't you know it, Medicare is at the top of the page.  Under Obama's current plan $248 billion, yes billion, would be cut from Medicare.  Make sure and have your voice heard by contacting your member of Congress and Senators today at 202-224-3121.

9/16/11  Happy Friday to everyone.  Todays message is simply to go out and enjoy the fall like weather that has swept the country.  Have a great weekend and be safe.  More to come on Monday.

9/15/11  Social Security reform will surely be one of the most talked about and debated issues in the upcoming Presidential election, so I thought I would post an article outlying the stances on SS from a couple of the Republican front runners for the 2012 Presidential nominee.  http:www.cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-20105159-503544.html?tag=cbsnewsmaincolumnarea

9/13/11  Here is a Tuesday edition of the Mailbag.  Tell me if this sounds familiar, Virginia from Oklahoma wrote in to Dr. Bridges to say "I'm praying that Social Security and Medicare can be saved.  I am on a fixed income and it will be a disaster for me if we lose it.  I'm too far gone in years to be able to get a job, and jobs are so scarce that they wouldn't hire me anyway."  This is exactly why we fight so hard against the politicians in Washington who just seem completely out of touch with the average senior citizen in America.  Congressmen and Senators may forget about you, but The Seniors Coalition will NEVER stop fighting for your rights!

9/12/11  TSC welcomes back Congressional Federal Credit Union as a member benefit to all good standing members of The Seniors Coalition.  Finally an opportunity to share the benefits that members of the House and Senate have been getting for decades.  Get in touch with me today at TSC@Senior.org to find out how you can start enjoying the same financial benefits as members of Congress.

9/9/11  Seemed like more hot air from our President last night.  What about senior citizens?  How about some sort of job creation for seniors to offset CoLA's that haven't been seen in two years?  Or even any mention of plans to PROTECT Social Security instead of stealing from it?  Give me your thoughts today.

9/8/11  I will be watching the Presidents speech tonight on his plan for the "American Jobs Act", and I hope that you all will too.  While our current unemployment problem is serious in this country, as senior citizens I know that this issue isn't at the top of your wish list.  Rather, the security and protection of Social Security and Medicare.  These are the issues that you have told me over and over again that are of the utmost importance and MUST be addressed immediately.  Call or email me tomorrow to let me know your thoughts on the Presidents speech.  TSC@Senior.org.

9/7/11  Please contact me immediately if you haven't already received your free Seniors Coalition Prescription Drug Discount card.  The savings on this card are real and incredible.  A TSC member from IN saved $105.74 on a SINGLE prescripion at a Walgreens drug store.  Email me today at TSC@SENIOR.ORG!!

9/6/11  Hope everyone had a wonderful extended Labor Day Weekend.  Back to work as usual here at TSC.  Please make sure and contact me if there is anything that I can do to help you. 

8/31/11  Just wanted to share a part of a letter I received from a TSC member with some serious thoughts on the direction of our country.  Greg from Alabama wrote in to say "First, let me "THANK" each for all labors to aid senior citizens like me.  For the first time in my almost 73 years, I am seriously and sincerely concerned and afraid that our nation has been led to a place of almost no return.  Please keep up all you are doing to fight for the rights of us who are losing faith in our government!"  Thanks Greg, and we will!

8/30/11  No update yesterday because power was out after Hurricane Irene.  TSC is back in business today, and we hope you're well.  Here's some important information from our insurance affinity partner, Liberty Mutual, about filing claims (for our members who have policies with Liberty Mutual):  http://claims-insurance.libertymutual.com/report-claim-online  Also, for everyone's benefit, here's some good information about weather safety:  www.libertymutual.com/catastrophes

8/26/11  Hurricane Irene is in the news and is expected to hit Washington, D.C. this weekend.  We expect (and hope) to be in the office, working as usual on Monday morning.  Either way, this is a good time to focus on the special needs of seniors with Alzheimer's Disease or other dementias, and what to do in case of a natural disaster or other major emergencies.  More useful information is here: 

http://www.alz.org/safetycenter/we_can_help_safety_disaster.asp

8/25/11  Just a friendly reminder to all those on the east coast to hede your local emergency alerts and stay inside and on high ground this weekend.  Hurricane Irene could possibly do as much damage to the east coast as the current Congress is doing to seniors.  BE SAFE!

8/24/11  Just got off the phone with TSC member Jane from Wisconsin who called to say, "I hope everyone is all right after the earth quake.  Maybe the earth shaking yesterday will wake up some of these politicians that are trying to steal from us seniors."  Hopefully it did.

8/23/11  Sorry for the delayed post today.  5.9 magnitude earth quake here in our Nations Capital.  Everyone is ok and TSC didn't miss a beat.  Look for an earlier post tomorrow, mother nature willing of course.

8/22/11  Monday's Mailbag, and what a nice one we have today.  Skip from NC wrote "God has used you in a special way to help the seniors and disabled in which I am thankful.  We need our CoLA, but we also need God and the Seniors Coalition to represent us, against the Obama administration and those in Congress who dislike seniors."  Thank you Skip!

8/18/11  Today's inflation rates are horrible, Medicare is going broke and this is what AARP has up on there website today.  Unbelievable, read for yourself.  http:www.aarp.org/relationships.love-sex/info-06-2001/sex-improves-men-health.html?intcmp=DSO-HP-SL2

8/16/11  This just in, I have tallied the signatures for The Senior's Coalition's "Guaranteed 3% CoLA Petition to Congress" and you have pushed the number to 100,058 signed petitions.  This is great work, but we can't stop now.  Make sure and sign your CoLA petition TODAY and join in the fight to protect what's rightfully yours!

8/15/11  Presidential candidate and sitting member of Congress Michelle Bachman is saying what TSC has been saying for weeks, "The other statement that was made was by the President, saying to senior citizens, 'We don't know if you'll get your Socail Security checks in August.'  There were people in Dexter, Iowa, who cancelled their internet, who canceled their satellite TV because they didn't think that the President was going to get their Social Security check to them.  That was more than irresponsible, it sent a very bad signal."

8/12/11  Did you watch the Republican primary presidential debate last night?  Email me your thoughts and opinions at tsc@senior.org on who you thought stood out and who you thought faultered. 

8/11/11 How can Republicans finally get Obama out of the White House?  Read this article and get to know Texas Governor Rick Perry who is gaining momentum.  Will he run?  Judge for yourself.  www.cnn.com/2011/politics/06/17/rick.perry.profile/index.html?hpt=hp_+1

8/8/11  Mondays Mailbag, Bobbie from California wrote in to say "I have been a member of the Seniors Coalition for some time, and I believe this organization fights for the rights of seniors (as opposed to AARP, which is exactly why I dropped AARP).  Keep up the great job".

8/5/11:If you haven't renewed your TSC membership, don't delay.  We need you!

8/3/11: Our petition drive against extending Social Security to illegal aliens will be online soon!

8/2/11:  A TSC member in Florida saved 58% using their TSC Prescription Drug Cards at a Wal-Mart pharmacy. Contact us TODAY and get your prescription drug card and start saving immediately. 571-425-4160, or by email at tsc@senior.org.

8/2/11: Ladette from IL called today to say, "Please do all that you can to protect my social security payments. I don't know how I'll survive without them. Please keep on working as hard as you can to protect other seniors like me who rely on SS to eat and keep a roof over our heads."

8/1/11: The debt ceiling "deal" doesn't protect Social Security from continued Congressional raids, makes it more likely Congress will raise taxes and less likely it will eliminate the death tax.  It safeguards Obamacare but targets Medicare doctors for even more cuts in reimbursements.  AND it doesn't put America on a path to balancing the budget.  TSC opposes this deal.  Call Congress and tell your elected representatives to vote NO.  202-224-3121.

7/29/11:   Call the White House at 202-456-1111 and tell President Obama to retract his threat to stop paying Social Security benefits if the debt ceiling is not reached!

7/28/11: Today's common sense: Marilyn from Pottsville PA wrote TSC to say, "I URGE you to make reform of the Social Security Trust the top priority! Why can't we put the SS Trust Fund under the control of an independent council so Congress can't continue to steal from it and it can be used for what it was intended for." Common sense indeed.

7/28/11: Make sure and join TSC in the fight to protect Social Security and sign our online petition TODAY!!!!! Make your voice heard so we can let the politicians on Capitol Hill know enough is enough!

7/26/11: I got off the phone with Barbara from Texas who called to say "Thank you for standing up to the politicians on Capitol Hill and please continue your fight for senior citizen's rights. I have just joined and so has my mother. Keep up the great work!"

7/26/11: President Obama continues to threaten seniors. His policies have drained the Social Security account in order to pay for "Cowboy Poetry festivals."  Don't blame seniors for your own failings Mr. Obama!

7/25/11: Things are happening quickly on Capitol Hill today. The TSC staff is following developments very closely.

7/25/11: The results of TSC's 2011 Legislative Survey are now out!

7/22/11: TSC's online petition drive is a big success. Make your voice heard by signing The Seniors Coalition's Social Security lockbox petition.

7/21/11: Call or email TODAY to get your Prescription Drug Card and join in on the savings. 571-425-4160 or tsc@senior.org.

7/20/11: Another TSC member used our Prescription Discount Card to save 84.2% at a Sav-On Pharmacy in Nevada!

7/18/11: Monday's Mailbag. Caryn from Dallas, "Thank you so much for all you do. I pray every day for your success. Thank you and God bless!"

7/13/11: Renew your pledge to save the Social Security Trust Fund today. Join TSC and make your voice heard NOW by signing our "Lock Box" petition!!