Obamacare Health Exchange Buyers Can Expect $2,700 in Tax Credits: Report

By | August 14, 2013

  • August 14, 2013 at 10:26 am
    Libby says:
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    “As of June, proposed monthly premiums in nine states for the benchmark level of medical coverage were less than congressional estimates, according to a study at the time from Avalere Health, a Washington-based consulting company.”

    So much for doom and gloom from the right. I’m so happy this is finally becoming a reality in our country!

    • August 14, 2013 at 2:45 pm
      NY Broker says:
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      This will only materialize if young, healthy people sign up. If only sick people sign up the costs of insurance will sky rocket.

      • August 14, 2013 at 2:54 pm
        Libby says:
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        It all remains to be seen, doesn’t it?

      • August 14, 2013 at 4:52 pm
        Agent says:
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        NY, they are counting on the Enroll America campaign to bring the young, healthy in. The young, healthy I have run across don’t have a clue and are too busy downloading apps to care. 40% of them don’t even know Healthcare Reform was passed.

        • August 15, 2013 at 8:59 am
          Captain Planet says:
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          Way to generalize and pull numbers out of thin air, Agent. What is your beef with apps? The apps I have are extremely useful. Are you just one of those guys who refuses to learn how to use a smart phone?

          Most of the youth I know are in touch with healthcare reform because they wanted, and in some cases, voted for it. Most of the youth I know are also professionally driven. Not exactly the basement dwellers you like to broadly paint the youth to be.

          • August 19, 2013 at 4:23 pm
            Agent says:
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            Planet, you really need to get out more. Staying cloistered into your little cubbyhole and knowing one or two people who claim they are in touch with Healthcare reform does not qualify as knowing what young people know or don’t know. I have been exposed to hundreds of so called young professionals and they have no clue. I have never heard so many dumb questions in my life.

  • August 14, 2013 at 1:34 pm
    FFA says:
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    “The Obama administration has said it wants to see about 7 million people enroll in plans through the exchanges next year, including at least 2.7 million who are young and healthy. That’s necessary to balance the cost of covering sick people”

    Odds in Vegas posted on this yet??

    if this group is based in Washington DC, they need to clarify if they are using Webster’s definition of the word “Less”. I’ll even take Random House definition.

  • August 14, 2013 at 2:02 pm
    FFA says:
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    Justice done today! JR gets 30 months. His crook wife Sandi gets 12 months with out the possibility of early release (per Chicago tribune).

    Two more down, now on to the other fish to fry.

    • August 14, 2013 at 2:26 pm
      Agent says:
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      How about frying “Dead Fish”?

      • August 14, 2013 at 2:59 pm
        FFA says:
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        I am not in Chicago – from what I see on the news, he is getting a grip on the murder rate – Down 25%. Did get the Parking Meter thing as close to being worked out as possible.
        School Closing — Jury out on that for now. See how the Safe Passage thing works out.
        I am sitting on a fence with him….

        • August 15, 2013 at 10:23 am
          FFA says:
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          Per the news this AM, Rahm is bragging a 65% Graduation Rate from High School. This is an improvement from years past. Now, the next trick from his bag should be to get them to graduate in 4 years, not 5 years.

          He does seem to be getting a grip on things.

          • August 15, 2013 at 11:56 am
            jw says:
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            Wow, 65% is still failing if it takes a 70% to get a D. That’s actually very sad. I always thought of Chicago as a cultured and yuppie kind of place. I guess the yuppies don’t actually live there, huh?

          • August 15, 2013 at 12:16 pm
            FFA says:
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            Wriggley Ville is Yuppie Ville. South & West parts of Chicago – stay out of!

          • August 21, 2013 at 5:55 pm
            Agent says:
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            He was talking about the graduation rate from High School, not the grades they were getting. Many are passed on to get them out of school and they are functional illiterates out on the street and are not capable of getting anything but the most menial jobs. I remember seeing a story years ago that a star football player got out of high school, was recruited by a football power, they managed to somehow keep him eligible by putting him in remedial courses and he went to the pros and couldn’t come close to reading his contract. His agent had to explain it to him verbally. He played for 5 or 6 years, got injured and then lost his money to bad investments and ended up washing cars. That is a sad story and it happens more than we think.

          • August 22, 2013 at 1:04 pm
            jw says:
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            Agent, I get that he was talking about graduation rates. I was comparing the graduation rate (percentage) to a letter grade. The schools are failing if less than 70% are graduating.

  • August 14, 2013 at 2:23 pm
    emma says:
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    Our health care should never have been set up as part of an employment package. It should be set up like automobile insurance; individual policies based on individual health situations and across state lines for better competition.

    • August 15, 2013 at 9:01 am
      Captain Planet says:
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      Don’t worry, emma, voices of reason get shot down all the time here. It was probably Sgt. Major robo-thumbing you down.

      • August 15, 2013 at 11:58 am
        jw says:
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        Ya know, I like emma’s idea. Why would anyone pro-business not like it? Wouldn’t it reduce expenses?

    • August 22, 2013 at 6:12 pm
      Agent says:
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      jw, you bet the schools are failing. You should hear FFA talk about Chicago schools. Despite paying teachers among the highest in the country and the teachers having the very lucrative pension/benefit plan, they do a very poor job educating the kids. The unions have such a grip, poor teachers can’t be fired either. It is a bad situation getting worse. They have a bunch of those young thug drop outs on the street and they are killing numerous innocents every week. It is appalling. The other major factor is the break down of the family unit and little or no discipline for bad behavior.

  • August 14, 2013 at 2:33 pm
    Original Bob says:
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    Does anyone know what entitlement programs get cut to account (just medicare reimbursements?) for the loss of taxes from the previously uninsured and where does the increased subsidies to states for the expansion of Medicaid come from? Will it come from those who are currently uninsured that will be forced to enroll in a health plan or pay increased taxes? What about those currently in health plans that will qualify for new tax credits? Surely that will be an additional drain due to taxes previously collected but now forgiven. I’m not against providing basic health care for those who can’t afford it, I’m just wondering where all the money is coming from to pay for all of it. the requirement to insure those previously deemed high risk has alread been in place with few takers, then they expanded the definition for an uninsurable risk and still there there few takers. Perhaps if I could understand the math I could get behind Obamacare.

    • August 14, 2013 at 2:59 pm
      Libby says:
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      The ACA’s provisions are funded by a variety of taxes and offsets. Major sources of new revenue include a much-broadened Medicare tax on incomes over $200,000 and $250,000, for individual and joint filers respectively, an annual fee on insurance providers, and a 40% excise tax on “Cadillac” insurance policies. The income levels are not adjusted for inflation, leaving the possibility of increased taxes on incomes over 250,000 inflation-adjusted dollars after more than two decades without indexing through.[42] There are also taxes on pharmaceuticals, high-cost diagnostic equipment, and a 10% federal sales tax on indoor tanning services. Offsets are from intended cost savings such as changes in the Medicare Advantage program relative to traditional Medicare.[43]

      Summary of tax increases: (ten-year projection)

      -Increase Medicare tax rate by 0.9% and impose added tax of 3.8% on unearned income for high-income taxpayers: $210.2 billion Charge
      -an annual fee on health insurance providers: $60 billion
      -Impose a 40% excise tax on health insurance annual premiums in excess of $10,200 for an individual or $27,500 for a family: $32 billion
      -Impose an annual fee on manufacturers and importers of branded drugs: $27 billion
      -Impose a 2.3% excise tax on manufacturers and importers of certain medical devices:$20 billion
      -Raise the 7.5% adjusted gross income floor on medical expenses deduction to 10%: $15.2 billion
      -Limit annual contributions to flexible spending arrangements in cafeteria plans to $2,500: $13 billion
      -All other revenue sources: $14.9 billion

      Summary of spending offsets: (ten-year projection)

      -Reduce funding for Medicare Advantage policies: $132 billion
      -Reduce Medicare home health care payments: $40 billion
      -Reduce certain Medicare hospital payments: $22 billion
      -Original budget estimates included a provision to require information reporting on payments to corporations, which had been projected to raise $17 billion, but the provision was repealed.[44]

      • August 14, 2013 at 4:08 pm
        Agent says:
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        Libby, that is an impressive list of taxes, fees that you list to implement this bill. I am surprised you aren’t against it with all this evidence. Gee, if buyers can expect tax credits for buying coverage, I wonder how long they have to wait to get it. Buy in January, pay the premiums all year long and then take the credit on the return the following April? Could that be a 15 1/2 month wait for the tax credit to kick in?

        • August 14, 2013 at 4:33 pm
          Libby says:
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          In my experience, Agent, that’s how it’s always worked.

      • August 14, 2013 at 7:39 pm
        FFA says:
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        Lets Dissect this:
        -Increase Medicare tax rate by 0.9% and impose added tax of 3.8% on unearned income for high-income taxpayers: $210.2 billion Charge

        Tax Increase to hit everyone in the US at a .09% rate.

        -an annual fee on health insurance providers: $60 billion

        Passed on to Joe Consumer by the carrier – increase of cost.

        -Impose a 40% excise tax on health insurance annual premiums in excess of $10,200 for an individual or $27,500 for a family: $32 billion

        Going to hit me in the pocket book. Guess I should not drop my deductible down from $5K.
        -Impose an annual fee on manufacturers and importers of branded drugs: $27 billion

        Increases the cost of Medical Care passed on to Joe Consumer.

        -Raise the 7.5% adjusted gross income floor on medical expenses deduction to 10%: $15.2 billion

        Taking away a write off for – yes – Joe Consumer.

        -Limit annual contributions to flexible spending arrangements in cafeteria plans to $2,500: $13 billion

        Why on earth would they limit that?? Again, hurts Joe Consumer

        -All other revenue sources: $14.9 billion.

        Almost every one of the taxes are going to hit me. Nothing good.

        • August 15, 2013 at 11:42 am
          Agent says:
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          I guess we can thank Libby for posting all these new facts for us. It just points out how bad it all is. She, Ron & Planet are sitting in their cubby hole and it doesn’t affect them personally and they could care less how it is affecting Joe Consumer or Small Business.

          • August 15, 2013 at 11:56 am
            Libby says:
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            What new facts, Agent? There’s nothing new about what I posted (which Sarge censored anyway). Those are all the same taxes and fees that were in the ACA when it was passed in 2010. Where have you been? In YOUR cubbyhole?

          • August 15, 2013 at 12:18 pm
            FFA says:
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            They are Joe Consumer too. They will get hit. They are just in denial or hoping the reduction in premiums – if there is in fact one – off sets the amount of taxes they are going to have to pay.

          • August 15, 2013 at 12:32 pm
            Libby says:
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            I am prepared for the hit, FFA, if any. This is one thing I don’t mind spending tax money on. Now if we could just de-fund all the wars going on, we’d be on our way to a balance budget.

        • August 15, 2013 at 12:05 pm
          jw says:
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          The flexible spending cap really irritates me. Does anyone know the ACTUAL logic behind this cap?

          • August 15, 2013 at 12:19 pm
            FFA says:
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            Increase cost to Joe Consumer (you) so the uninsured can get medical coverage.

  • August 14, 2013 at 3:04 pm
    FFA says:
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    Messing with this 2 man group still, got a proposal from BCBS yesterday explaining that the Insurers Taxes will be passed along to the consumers.

    Beginning of the end for small group policies……

    • August 14, 2013 at 3:40 pm
      Libby says:
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      You mean the $63 per person/per year fee for pre-existing? Is that really going to be a deal breaker?

      • August 14, 2013 at 4:56 pm
        FFA says:
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        Cant say for sure, but they are pissing me off!!!
        They want me to make a third trip down there. Gonna take me 6 months just to recoop my gas.

        • August 15, 2013 at 8:59 am
          Libby says:
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          Bow out.

          • August 15, 2013 at 10:25 am
            FFA says:
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            Tried yesterday. But they are pushing me.

          • August 15, 2013 at 10:28 am
            Libby says:
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            Make them come to you.

          • August 15, 2013 at 11:42 am
            FFA says:
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            She is legally blind. Cant come to me….

        • August 16, 2013 at 11:48 am
          Agent says:
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          FFA, I saw young Republican Rep from Illinois today on an interview. I think his name was Mark Wisinger but forgot the spelling on his name. Apparently, he is from a conservative district in Illinois. He was impressive and I think was a former soldier. What do you know about him? He is a breath of fresh air from the typical Illinois politicians we hear about.

          • August 16, 2013 at 12:47 pm
            FFA says:
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            I’ll be seeing my Senator friend tomorrow. I’ll ask him what he thinks. He is usually pretty straight forward with me.
            At the Il state fair, most democrats left Quinn standing at the Democrat booth solo in protest of not getting paid. I guess they are not backing his protest of getting paid to actually work. He is not backing down.
            Plenty of people at republican booth screaming about the democrats not wanting to get this thing done.

          • August 19, 2013 at 2:51 pm
            FFA says:
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            Well, my friend was not on the lake. According to his brother, he is in Springfield actually trying to get things worked out….

  • August 14, 2013 at 4:03 pm
    D says:
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    There is a group that no matter what “good things” are presented presented about Obamacare (tax breaks, making healthcare accessable more than ever, no more pre-existing condition exclusions) they will not be convinced that Obamacare is indeed a good thing.
    The other group when presented with negative information (Pelosi saying let’s pass it and see what’s in it, it’s a big bill and very hard to completely understand)will be in favor of it no matter what.

    The reality is that most of it has not taken affect and NOBODY knows how it is going to work out in the end. What would be nice is if the congress would work on the future (fixing mutually agreed potential defficiencies) and not try to find ways to manufacture reasons to defund or vote to repeal the measure (40 attempts thus far) and actually govern.

    Is that too much to ask?

    • August 14, 2013 at 4:36 pm
      Libby says:
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      Judging by the remarks on this blog, I think that is indeed too much to ask of the current Congress. We need to speak loud and clear on election day and send them all packing. We need fresh blood, new ideas, and a willing spirit in Congress. Not the win-at-all-costs attitude that we have now.

    • August 14, 2013 at 4:45 pm
      Agent says:
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      D, If this law is so good, how come the Rasmussen Poll, Gallup & Fox News poll are still showing a majority of people still against it? How come all the big Labor Unions like the Teamsters, Laborers International and others are so up in arms about it and want it changed or eliminated? How about Congress, who just agreed to make up the premium difference for their staffers to get on it. How about the 2,000+ Waivers granted to large companies and AARP by the way? Did we really need something so complicated with 2,700 pages that no one can understand or 15,000 pages of regulations to get Healthcare Reform done? Instead of the law gaining popularity, the longer it goes on, the more unfavorable it has become. Are there any concerns about the security of the information since the exchanges may not work & hackers may steal identities? Any concerns about the out of pocket maximums rising with that just announced delay? Please enlighten us.

      • August 14, 2013 at 4:54 pm
        Libby says:
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        You answered your own question. People do not understand the law. You can tell just by some of the posts on this blog and this is our business. Right-wingers are taking advantage of that and using their most favorite weapon, fear, to scare people into believing it is bad.

        You do not have to mark my words, but this thing is going to work. Not without hiccups, but it’s going to work my friend.

        • August 14, 2013 at 6:06 pm
          Agent says:
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          You are right on one thing Libby. As you said responding to my mark my words post, I will never mark your words. The hiccups keep on coming and that is why people are getting more apprehensive the farther down the road we get with this.

          • August 15, 2013 at 10:26 am
            FFA says:
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            They need to scrap it and start over. They need to keep in mind that they need to “dumb” it down.

          • August 15, 2013 at 10:30 am
            Libby says:
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            Did you not expect hiccups, Agent??? It wouldn’t be normal if there weren’t some. This is a HUGE endeavor. I give everyone credit that has been working to get this thing off the ground. You can continue to be a naysayer, but I am encouraged. This, too, will become but a blip in your radar some day. You will hardly remember a time you were against it. Just like medicare and social security.

      • August 14, 2013 at 5:18 pm
        D says:
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        Where in that post did I make a case for Obamacare being “so good”? If you read a little more carefully you would have noticed my point is that neither side is willing to consider the other side’s arguments. But, nobody knows how it will turn out. Congress, while crying about the law they don’t like, but IS a law, refuses to “govern” in changes to improve what they don’t like. You don’t need enlightenment. Just read carefully.

        I never believe a Fox news poll just like I wouldn’t trust MSNBC for poll results. But, that’s another story.

        • August 14, 2013 at 6:03 pm
          Agent says:
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          Do you also dislike Rasmussen and Gallup? Their polls were very close to the same. MSNBC has about 10 viewers so I don’t think they would be valid, do you?

          • August 15, 2013 at 8:58 am
            Ron says:
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            Agent,

            Do you ever think that you may need to work on your reading comprehension skills?

            You misinterprepted D’s post. What part of, “I never believe a Fox news poll just like I wouldn’t trust MSNBC for poll results.” do you not understand? It does not get much clearer than that.

            D may be the most centrist, reasonable person on this blog and you still find a way to make him/her out to be some left-wing, pro-Obamacare person with no evidence.

            Since when do polls about something that has not gone into effect matter? That is like polling people about their feelings of the first Monday Night football game of the 2013 season.

          • August 15, 2013 at 11:28 am
            Agent says:
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            Ron, perhaps you need to polish your reading skills. I mentioned three polls and D chose only to mention the dislike for FoxNews & MSNBC who was not mentioned. D needs to keep the conversation relevant on what I posted, not go off on a tangent like you do.

          • August 15, 2013 at 11:48 am
            Ron says:
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            Agent,

            First you said, “D, If this law is so good, how come the Rasmussen Poll, Gallup & Fox News poll are still showing a majority of people still against it?”; then D responded with, “I never believe a Fox news poll just like I wouldn’t trust MSNBC for poll results. But, that’s another story.”; finally you responded with, “MSNBC has about 10 viewers so I don’t think they would be valid, do you?”

            Simple reading comprehension who indicate that D does not a problem with Rasmussen Poll or Gallup, only Fox. Then he/she went of the way to mention that he/she also does not trust MSNBC polls either.

            Now, please tell me 2 things;
            1. Why did you feel the need to ask D if he/she thinks MSNBC polls are valid?; and
            2. Where I need to brush up on my reading comprehension?

        • August 15, 2013 at 5:01 pm
          Agent says:
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          Yes, Libby. The number of hiccups are so numerous they can’t be counted. Yes, this deficit neutral bill according to Obama will cost several trillion before it is said and done. It is a giant endeavor which didn’t need to be that way. The complexity is so much that legal scholars can’t understand it and 15,000 pages of regulations do not give me a warm fuzzy feeling. When you don’t believe the lawmakers that passed this that it would be a train wreck, Labor Unions that are up in arms against it, Congress passing costs for themselves and staffers on to us the taxpayer, I feel sorry for you.

          • August 15, 2013 at 5:15 pm
            FFA says:
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            Hiccups to people in the biz can mean full fledge heart failure to Joe/Jane average person… Guess that’s one way to whittle down the numbers.

          • August 16, 2013 at 12:33 pm
            Captain Planet says:
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            If they do have a heart issue, they’ll be covered!

  • August 14, 2013 at 4:43 pm
    Rusty says:
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    Regardless of all the offsets, which always seem more rosy than real, anything the government does always costs far more that originally indicated when promoted. (Ever hear of cost overruns on government projects?) That’s because at the governmental level, there is no incentive to save anything or to make things more efficient or to even identify waste and fraud. Where is all the money coming from to pay for all the new help that agencies, including the IRS, have to hire to manage the program? Taxes, of course and not all of that will come from increasing tax rates on wealthy people. Just look at the additional taxes that will be imposed on insurers, manufacturers of medical equipment, presciptions, etc. It must be remembered that all taxes are paid by people – corporations are only a flow-through mechanism for them and a convenient way to hide the fact that the public is actually paying those taxes in the price of the products being taxed. We, the public, have always footed the bill for government expenditures either by direct taxes or in the price of products and services we buy. The problem is that too many people don’t grasp that concept and believe that those nasty corporations that are being forced to pay increased taxes are funding them with corporate dollars adn forget where those dollars come from, which makes it easy to hide the truth from a lot of people.

  • August 14, 2013 at 4:48 pm
    Agent says:
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    Rusty, all you need to do is look at Libby’s post on all the new taxes, penalties, charges to see where this is heading. I am sure she probably left off some, but it is appalling to say the least.

    • August 14, 2013 at 4:54 pm
      Libby says:
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      I left off nothing. I have nothing to hide, Agent.

    • August 14, 2013 at 4:58 pm
      Rusty says:
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      Agent: Agreed. It is appalling and I suspect that it will prove to be another example of why utopian programs, based on a certain vision of how things ought to be, don’t make for practical solutions, and this one is likely to inflict serious damage on an already weak economy. Moreover, it is projected that not nearly as many people will be added to the rolls of insured people as was projected, i.e. maybe 30 million and not 45 million.

      • August 14, 2013 at 6:01 pm
        Agent says:
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        Rusty, they are hoping for 7 million in 14. My guess is 6.5 million PreX’s and 500,000 young healthy if their campaign works.

    • August 14, 2013 at 5:59 pm
      Agent says:
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      FFA, Are these some of those 15,000 pages of regulations they have been churning out the past 3 years?

      • August 14, 2013 at 6:19 pm
        FFA says:
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        Closed the Hobby Lobby Loop Hole, didn’t they.

      • August 14, 2013 at 6:31 pm
        FFA says:
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        It defines religious organizations as a 501 only.

        • August 15, 2013 at 12:02 pm
          Libby says:
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          If that’s the case, it makes it clear Hobby Lobby is not a religious organization. Good! They aren’t.

    • August 15, 2013 at 12:14 pm
      jw says:
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      I’m not surprised, considering the intent of the religious exemption.

  • August 14, 2013 at 10:20 pm
    Sargeant Major says:
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    Agent said- ” If this law is so good, how come the Rasmussen Poll, Gallup & Fox News poll are still showing a majority of people still against it?”

    Well, last week I was in Dallas. I picked up the USA Today in the lobby of the hotel I stayed in. It was dated 08/07/2013. According to a recent Gallup poll, results reported in USA today, section one page 9A. The poll question was “How do you think the Affordable Healthcare Act will affect your family’s Health care?”

    The results:

    42% of those surveyed said it would make it worse

    33% said it would be no better or make no difference

    22% said it would make it better and

    3% have no opinion (and live under a rock)

    This does not look like support to me. The majority of United States Citizens should decide what they want in healthcare and not the federal government. It should have been voted on.

    I would have liked to have seen a few other questions like what do you believe will happen to healthcare costs once ACA is implemented?

    Also – what will happen to taxes once ACA is implemented? will they go up, stay the same or go down?

    • August 15, 2013 at 9:06 am
      Captain Planet says:
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      Sgt Major wrote, “This does not look like support to me. The majority of United States Citizens should decide what they want in healthcare and not the federal government. It should have been voted on.”

      Sgt – uhhh, there was an election between some rich bozo who ran on “appeal Obamacare” and lost. It was voted on. It was supported. It will continue to be. What the majority do not like is the mandate. All of the benefits of the PPACA actually poll very well on their own.

      • August 15, 2013 at 9:20 am
        Captain Planet says:
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        *b/t some rich bozo and President Obama

        • August 15, 2013 at 2:30 pm
          Sargeant Major says:
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          Oh, I thought you said President Obozo and Obozocare,

          • August 15, 2013 at 3:41 pm
            Agent says:
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            Good one Sargeant. Planet provided you the ammunition and you handed him his head.

          • August 15, 2013 at 4:03 pm
            Libby says:
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            All it proves, Agent, is that Sarge can’t read.

      • August 15, 2013 at 11:38 am
        Agent says:
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        Captain, you need to polish your typing skills. Rich bozo ran on “appeal Obamacare”??? I guess your brain got ahead of your fingers with that bozo post.

        • August 15, 2013 at 11:58 am
          Libby says:
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          We all know what/who he meant, Agent. Your snarky response was uncalled for.

        • August 15, 2013 at 1:51 pm
          Captain Planet says:
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          Yes, agent, I hadn’t had my first cup of coffee yet. It won’t be the last time I make a typo. Have you ever made any? How’s that glass house of yours?

          • August 15, 2013 at 2:32 pm
            Agent says:
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            My house is fine, how is yours? By the way, the National Barack Channel just ran a story that astounded me since they are the most in the tank network for many years. Lo and behold, they decided to send Lisa Meyers out to do some investigative reporting and interview some small business owners on how the businesses are having to cope with Obamacare. While the Administration keeps saying “there is no anecdotal evidence that Obamacare is hurting jobs”, these business owners all told her they were having to cut hours of employees due to Obamacare. Poor Lisa had the look of a deer caught in the headlights since she believed Jay Carney all this time. It is quite a shock to these people when they get out in the real world and see what is actually going on.

    • August 15, 2013 at 9:50 am
      Libby says:
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      Hey Sarge, the Republican smear campaign seems to be working! Congrats. I hope the Koch Bros spend every last dime they have trying to sabotage this, because it’s here and it’s here to stay. You’ll see. You’re just going to have to get used to it. Now thumbs away!! LOL!

      • August 15, 2013 at 2:36 pm
        Sargeant Major says:
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        LOL, I work for a living and really own my business. I am calling on customers ad trying to do enough business to pay for ACA which I get no benefit from. I don’t have to stay on this and vote one way or another unlike you who votes for yourself because no else will.

        How’s that 5’5″, bald spouse- LOL

        • August 15, 2013 at 2:58 pm
          FFA says:
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          I’m not her spouse!!!

          • August 15, 2013 at 3:09 pm
            Libby says:
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            You crack me up, FFA! It almost happened, though. Remember?

          • August 15, 2013 at 4:53 pm
            FFA says:
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            All he missed was the fat crack!

            Its my 15 yr anniversary today. Was planning a dinner & concert in the park with my wife. She shows up with a Mountain Bike, no lunch and no cigs. If that aint a hint!
            My go to jewelry store for wifes presents went out of business…. Now what??????? UGHHHH!!!

          • August 16, 2013 at 8:47 am
            Libby says:
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            Happy Anniversary! 15 yrs? I thought you guys had grown kids.

          • August 16, 2013 at 9:57 am
            FFA says:
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            Step Kids… All the same anyways. Bio Dad is a crack head. In and out of jail for his entire life. I would bet money that he is the #1 Dead Beat dad in the entire country. Well over $1M back….

          • August 16, 2013 at 10:07 am
            Libby says:
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            You must really love her alot to take all of that on. Here’s to many more!

          • August 16, 2013 at 11:35 am
            FFA says:
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            yesterday – not so much. Today – a different story.
            Thought we were going to have an evening out for anniversary. Instead she brings a whole crowd along.

            Then she told me that she told the gr kids we would bring them to the lake this week end. Now, she calls me and tells me we are leaving the kids behind…….

        • August 15, 2013 at 3:08 pm
          Libby says:
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          No use lying, Sarge. You’ve been called out for your cheating.

          And my spouse happens to be 6″3″ with a full head of hair. You’re the one that’s 5’5″ and bald. Don’t get it twisted. LMAO!

          • August 15, 2013 at 5:18 pm
            FFA says:
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            He is bald because he is an Employer – not an employee.

          • August 16, 2013 at 10:08 am
            Libby says:
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            A little one-man shop does not qualify as being an employer.

          • August 16, 2013 at 10:47 am
            Sargeant Major says:
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            Libby said- ” Don’t get it twisted. LMAO!”

            Well Libby, I am sure you have plenty of a*s to laugh off- HA

          • August 16, 2013 at 11:32 am
            FFA says:
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            I don’t think he is a one man shop. Cant go on Vacation / Business Trip unless someone is there to mind the store.

          • August 16, 2013 at 11:47 am
            Libby says:
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            I don’t think he’s an employer, either. He said he has “partners.” I’m just glad I don’t have to work with him. He’s a nasty piece of work.

        • August 15, 2013 at 3:13 pm
          Captain Planet says:
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          Sgt Major – how many employees do you have?

          • August 15, 2013 at 3:41 pm
            Libby says:
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            I’m sure it’s less than 50, but he continues to complain about Obamacare like it will affect him. Besides, he gets free V.A. benefits, so we’re already paying for his medical care!

          • August 16, 2013 at 11:04 am
            Sargeant Major says:
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            We have enough. We are splitting employee groups and how they are paid and benefits. We are setting up a PEO to separate them to make sure we are not over 50 in either operation. Sales, underwriting, management, including partners in the brokerage and the remaining in the PEO. In the PEO if the leave the company (retire, terminate or vol leave) they are replaced with part time employees. When ACA goes into effect, the brokerage will get employee paid/subsidized benefits and those in the PEO will be referred to the ACA exchange.
            Currently, we subsidize much of the healthcare cost and just about 100% are enrolled. I think the individual pays about $50 every two weeks and a family is about $108 every two weeks.

          • August 16, 2013 at 11:29 am
            Libby says:
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            So. Leaving your employees out in the cold to fend for themselves on the exchange. Nice!

          • August 16, 2013 at 11:42 am
            FFA says:
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            Sarge – Impressive. No wonder you are so dead set against this. As the Principle, you have to make hard decisions to remain a viable entity.
            And Libby, he is doing the best he can with this screw job being handed to everyone in the US that pays taxes and has a job.

          • August 16, 2013 at 11:49 am
            Libby says:
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            How is that the best he can do? Right now he pays almost 100% of the cost, he said. How is throwing them to the exchange to fend for themselves “doing the best he can?”

            Besides, he’s not a principal. He said he has “partners.”

          • August 16, 2013 at 12:19 pm
            FFA says:
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            If he is a partner, he is a principle. I don’t know his finances nor do you.
            If this is what he has to do to keep his people off the unemployment line, at least they will have a job.
            Its the same story being told around the entire country. This Law hurts employment.
            Open your eyes.

        • August 15, 2013 at 3:52 pm
          Agent says:
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          So Sargeant, How do you like the Defense Dept aka Obama Administration/Sequester taking the cafe’ at Walter Reed hospital away from the wounded soldiers? They were told they had to go to another annex 6 blocks away if they wanted some food. This cafe’ had been in place to serve meals on the weekends when the hospital didn’t feed them. Boy, that should be convenient to the double amputees to get to, right? This is worse than how Vietnam vets were treated when they came home.

          • August 15, 2013 at 4:26 pm
            Libby says:
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            That ain’t right. I heard they reversed that decision, so I hope that’s true.

          • August 15, 2013 at 4:43 pm
            Libby says:
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            I thought Walter Reed shut down.

          • August 16, 2013 at 8:23 am
            jw says:
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            I just checked Tricare, Walter Reed is still open.

          • August 16, 2013 at 8:46 am
            Ron says:
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            Libby,

            Agent is right on this one. Although, I am still not sure how it is relevant to the article.

            It appears to be true that the DOD was looking to limit access to the Warrior Cafe’, but has since reversed their decision. The fact that they were even considering such a move is dispicable in my opinion, but at least they came to their senses and did the right thing.

            http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2013/08/15/military-reverses-opens-dining-hall-to-wounded-warriors-after-fox-news/

          • August 16, 2013 at 8:49 am
            Libby says:
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            Well, leave it to Agent to omit the fact that they reversed their decision. They should never have done it in the first place, but at least they did the right thing in the end.

          • August 16, 2013 at 10:52 am
            Sargeant Major says:
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            I thought they reversed that decision but now not sure? I think that soldiers who serve their country and perform their duty should be treated properly and that the government should step up and keep the promises they made to them when they were recruited or drafted in the case of many old ground pounders, sailors and airmen

          • August 16, 2013 at 12:03 pm
            Agent says:
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            Supposedly, the decision was reversed after your hated Fox News exposed the story. The mainstream never reported anything. The Defense Dept had egg all over their face. They thought they could get away with it, but they didn’t. Sometimes, sunlight is the best disinfectant. Now, if we can get more sunlight on the travesty of Obamacare, perhaps we can get rid of at least the worst parts of it.

  • August 14, 2013 at 10:43 pm
    Sargeant Major says:
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    Yes we need a change come next election. I think we need to broom the Senators who do nothing including NOT pass a budget, jump on every catastrophe bandwagon that draws a news story, including Newtown CT and then DO NOTHING but let the issue fade away. Thrill story of the moment politics.
    Or accountability and action to those at the IRS who contributed to the IRS target scandal and have DONE NOTHING (Even the President said it there would be people held accountable in 30 days) well? They have done nothing.
    Or even ACA. That some of the key Dems who worked on and voted for the bill now have said it is a “Train Wreck” including Max Baucus and joined the labor unions (who was for it ad voted for Obama) against it. Oops, the unions found out the Caddy tax is going to hit their members of up to 40%.
    How about the threat by the president made against Putin when he said there would be actions taken if Snowden was not returned to the US. Well? Nothing and Putin’s actions giving Snowden asylum just said up yours.
    Yes, we need a good brooming.

    • August 15, 2013 at 7:42 am
      Ron says:
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      Sarge,

      The Republicans need to be swept out with the Democrats.

    • August 15, 2013 at 9:34 am
      Nebraskan says:
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      TOTALLY off topic, but I wish the US would boycott the Olympics coming up in Sochi. (It’s the winter olympics anyways.)

      • August 15, 2013 at 10:27 am
        Libby says:
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        Sochi has a humid subtropical climate with mild winters, average 52° during the day and 39° at night.

        Why would anyone have the winter Olympics there?

        • August 15, 2013 at 10:34 am
          FFA says:
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          Cause the world hates us. Want evidence, look what happened when Chicago made a push. The arrogance of the USOC bringing the likes of Opra & OBama into it. The IOC kicking Baseball out of the Olympics.

          Two major F -u’s to the US. The rest of the worlds dis approval of the US has never been so evident.

          • August 15, 2013 at 11:07 am
            Libby says:
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            I disagree. The world despised us during George W. Bush’s arrogance and lack of foreign policy. I think Obama has done alot to improve our image. There will always be those other factions that hate us (Taliban, Al Quada, etc.)

          • August 15, 2013 at 11:51 am
            FFA says:
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            I would agree that the world has hated us for decades. We have been pushing / forcing our ways on the rest of the world for decades spanning many presidents from both sides.

            I do stand by my belief that the USOC bringing out the “star” power back fired miserably. These are amateur athletes – kids playing for the love of the game.

            I have a friend that her kids plays on the US National Hockey team. He was recruited at 16 – before he even got out of high school going against the Russian Bruisers and making them look like fools. He is 18 now and is on fast track for the NHL. Kids like that deserve to play on the worlds biggest stage.

            Politics should never influence the Olympics!

          • August 15, 2013 at 12:32 pm
            Nebraskan says:
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            FFA, I thought “olympics” was the greek term for “politics?” :) I LOVE watching the Olympics, but it’s all just a joke anymore. From every angle. From juiced athletes, to professional athlestes vs. amateurs, to rigged judging, to forcing countries and cities to build huge stadiums that become ghost towns once said olympics is over….it’s all just a joke.

            SORRY! I’m really off topic.

          • August 15, 2013 at 1:14 pm
            jw says:
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            Softball was also deleted from the summer olympics. I still haven’t forgiven the IOC for that one.

          • August 15, 2013 at 1:17 pm
            jw says:
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            FFA – you’ll have to brag when your friend’s son makes it to the NHL. Do you think he’ll go the juniors route (Quebec or Ontario leagues) or college?

          • August 15, 2013 at 1:48 pm
            FFA says:
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            U of FLA – Full Ride Scholarship. The team that drafted him wants him there for at least two years to develop.

            He is just a little guy barely 5’6. maybe 175lbs. Don’t know how he did it against the Russian Bruisers. He was skating circles around them. when one of the Russian bullies went after him, all hell broke lose. Biggest Russian vs the smallest American…. Kids paying his dues…

          • August 15, 2013 at 2:35 pm
            Agent says:
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            FFA, as I recall, the whole entourage was sent over at a big cost to come back empty handed. Perhaps they heard about the crime problem in Chicago and didn’t want the athletes exposed to it.

          • August 15, 2013 at 2:59 pm
            FFA says:
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            I cant believe RIO was any better Crime Wise.

          • August 15, 2013 at 3:13 pm
            Libby says:
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            I’ve been to Rio and there are places you don’t want to venture to there. It can be very dangerous. But beautiful, too.

          • August 16, 2013 at 12:22 pm
            FFA says:
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            And agent, they had something in their hands – their A#@. Bringing out the “star” power was a colossal mistake with a Hugh price tag….

          • August 16, 2013 at 6:06 pm
            Agent says:
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            Libby, the world despised us long before GW took office. You can go back to Kruschev pounding the desk at the UN with his shoe during the Eisenhower Administration. The rest of the world has been jealous of the US because our system had succeeded and theirs had failed under Communism and Dictatorships. Ronny completely decimated the Russians because they couldn’t compete with us and they had to tear down that wall in Berlin and adopt a better economic system. Now, Putin is flexing his muscles and giving Obama the finger at every opportunity and we just cancel a meeting with him. Boy, he is sure respectful, isn’t he?

          • August 19, 2013 at 2:18 pm
            Iloveinsurance says:
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            What a bogus story FFA. Hope this discredits you pretty quick. UFLA has at best a “club” hockey team, no scholarships provided period. You don’t get “drafted” and then end up playing club level hockey. Either you Play D1 hockey at the varsity level or you go the Major Junior route through Canada. Good Rocky vs Ivan Drago story though. As for Ray Leblanc, he played on the 1992 US team not the 1980 Miracle on Ice team. The only correct info in your statement is that he was a goalie and he managed to play in the Chicago organization. You should stick to “Red Sports” like calf ropin’, monster truckin’, and .

          • August 19, 2013 at 3:53 pm
            FFA says:
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            Iluveins – I do mix up certain things. I am not a big College sports follower. 10mil other things going in my world. Cant keep track of what my friends kids are doing.
            If you don’t believe me, oh well….
            Here is the press release –

            Louis, 18, shared third on the USNTDP club with 47 points, ranked fourth with 19 goals and ranked second with 28 assists in 59 regular-season games with the U-18 team. The Winfield, Ill., native ranked second on the club at the Four Nations Tournament with five points (3G, 2A) in four games. Louis won a gold medal at the 2012 U-18 World Championship, tallying one assist in six games. He combined for 42 points (27G, 15A) in 56 games with the U-18 and U-17 clubs during 2011-12 in his USNTDP debut. The center has committed to Miami University

          • August 19, 2013 at 4:04 pm
            iloveinsurance says:
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            I stand corrected then, Miami of Ohio is DI and the USNTDP is legit.

          • August 19, 2013 at 4:05 pm
            FFA says:
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            “You should stick to “Red Sports” like calf ropin’, monster truckin’, and .”

            Isn’t that more Blue Collar?? After all, no farms left in my neck of the woods. Much prefer Football. Watching pieces of the Little League World Series. That’s more my speed….

          • August 19, 2013 at 4:09 pm
            FFA says:
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            I stand corrected too!
            I thought 1980 was the last true armature Olympics.

          • August 19, 2013 at 4:22 pm
            iloveinsurance says:
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            They are blue collar but in the Red States these are actually considered sports. The problem is that any activity where Wranglers are part of the uniform you just can’t consider that a sport.

          • August 19, 2013 at 4:45 pm
            Libby says:
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            So is riding around in an electric cart chasing after a ball with a stick. I don’t call that a sport either. I’d much rather see a good rodeo. And I’m as blue as they get!

          • August 19, 2013 at 5:02 pm
            FFA says:
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            “Miami of Ohio is DI and the USNTDP is legit”
            I don’t even know what DI Stands for much less USNTDP.
            I didn’t even know there was a U of Miami in Ohio.

            Like I said, not a big college sports guy. I did get out to see the cubs class a team a few times this year. Wait till next year???? Maybe not next year.

            Bears 3rd string qb came out of White Water. They referred to that as a Division Three School. Not sure what the win record was, but the loss column was ZERO through three seasons as a starter.

          • August 20, 2013 at 7:11 am
            jw says:
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            Bless your heart, FFA. I’m sure if you aren’t a fanatic, college sports make no sense. Give a shout if you actually want to know what all the fuss is about. I’m one of those annoying sports freaks.

            Oh, iloveinsurance, rodeos and pro bull riding ARE sports. They are fun to watch and take both skill and strength.

          • August 20, 2013 at 11:34 am
            FFA says:
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            Thanks JW…. Football – Pro Style – is my sport of choice. Looking forward to another Fantasy Football Season. I’ve drawn the third pick….

      • August 15, 2013 at 10:31 am
        FFA says:
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        HEY NOW. Leave the Olympics out of it. Amateur athletes have nothing to do with politics. Let the kids play!

        Besides, its a good break from the rest of the worlds BS.

        • August 15, 2013 at 11:35 am
          Agent says:
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          Didn’t the Democratic peanut farmer from Georgia boycott the Moscow Olympics back in the day. Our athletes trained for 4 years to go and had to sit at home while the rest of the world were winning medals.

          • August 15, 2013 at 11:52 am
            FFA says:
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            YEP. He denied kids – yes kids – the chance to show case their talents to the world.

            Over political BS.

          • August 15, 2013 at 11:58 am
            Ron says:
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            Agent,

            And your hero, President Reagan, supported the boycott.

            http://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=2199&dat=19800406&id=J6gyAAAAIBAJ&sjid=R-cFAAAAIBAJ&pg=6824,1558893

          • August 15, 2013 at 12:00 pm
            Libby says:
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            Ohhhhh snap!

          • August 15, 2013 at 1:37 pm
            Captain Planet says:
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            Ron drops a bomb. BOOM goes the dynamite!

        • August 15, 2013 at 12:34 pm
          Nebraskan says:
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          Oh, and I didn’t realize Michael Jordan all the way through to LeBron was an amateur… There is no such thing as an amateur athlete anymore, FFA….and I’m not just saying that because it’s not the 1970s.

          • August 15, 2013 at 1:19 pm
            jw says:
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            The rules were changed some time ago, I can’t remember exactly when. I am very sad the IOC decided to allow professionals play, but they didn’t ask for my opinion.

          • August 15, 2013 at 1:52 pm
            FFA says:
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            I agree!!! 100%. No Pro belongs in the Olympics.
            It was a decision by the IOC cause the Russians don’t have pro leagues. Last true Amateur Hockey Team we sent was probably the 1980 Miracle on Ice team.

            Them Pros need to stay at home. Let the JR & Minor Leaguers go out there.

          • August 15, 2013 at 1:57 pm
            FFA says:
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            yes there is. College Sports??? All your Corn Huskers are Amateur…

            ” Michael Jordan all the way through to LeBron” need to stay home. Let the kids play!!!

          • August 15, 2013 at 3:00 pm
            Agent says:
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            Where have you been Nebraskan. We haven’t had amateur athletes for a very long time. Basically, the rest of the world were sending professional/subsidized athletes to the games and we were trying to compete with college students. We couldn’t beat them in basketball or any other team events. Why should the US be the only country with strictly amateur athletes trying to win medals? That doesn’t make much sense, I am sure you will agree.

        • August 16, 2013 at 12:07 pm
          Agent says:
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          The good news is that the Olympics are including golf this time. Of course, they had to hire a big name golf architect to design a course for it since golf is not a big sport in Argentina. They have had trouble with the government down there on the land acquisition and are behind schedule on the construction, but still think they can get it ready in time. I am looking forward to seeing a player having to make a 6 footer to win the gold medal. That should be some real pressure to perform.

        • August 20, 2013 at 12:05 pm
          Agent says:
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          So Libby, your snarky reply about golf did not go unnoticed. If you knew anything about the game, you would know that it takes more skill than just about any other sport to play well. What other game takes 14 different instruments to hit a ball? It takes very good eye/hand coordination and timing to do it well. I like it because you can play it all your life whether you are good or not. I will say that it is more fun to play it well than badly. I have a lot of fun with my golf buddies each weekend. We pretend that the ball is a liberal and we get extra distance on our drives. Go see your rodeo if you can find one to go to in Pennsylvania.

          • August 20, 2013 at 12:19 pm
            Libby says:
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            You do what you like and I’ll do what I like, Agent. That’s what makes horse races.

          • August 20, 2013 at 12:20 pm
            Libby says:
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            And my response was no snarkier than iloveinsurance’s to FFA about monster trucks and calf roping.

          • August 20, 2013 at 2:48 pm
            FFA says:
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            I’m just not getting that “Snarky” thing….
            Ilvns 1st comment was rude, but after I clarified my own ignorance on the subject matter, I took the next post to be informational…

            And Libby, were you referring to polo? Cause they ride horses, not electric cars.

            Is bowling considered a sport?

          • August 20, 2013 at 3:25 pm
            Libby says:
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            His comment was snarky (rude) and so was mine. And no, FFA, I wasn’t talking about polo. But good guess!

          • August 20, 2013 at 3:26 pm
            Libby says:
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            And I hope bowling is a sport because that would make me an Athlete!

          • August 21, 2013 at 7:41 am
            jw says:
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            Hey, FFA, I don’t always see the snark either. Especially in my own posts. I’m going for funny and get called snarky. Oh, well. I’m sure I’ll live.

      • August 15, 2013 at 1:13 pm
        jw says:
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        No dis-ing the winter olympics! Hockey. Rules. I actually prefer the winter olympics, thank you very much.

        • August 15, 2013 at 1:55 pm
          FFA says:
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          There is no hockey like Olympic hockey!!!

          • August 15, 2013 at 3:01 pm
            Agent says:
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            We did have the miracle at Lake Placid and that was with amateur hockey players. Boy, that was sweet.

          • August 15, 2013 at 5:22 pm
            FFA says:
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            Every so often, ESPN Classis will replay the game. I watch it. Great speech by the coach before the game.

            “They will beat us 99 times out of a 100. Today is the 1 time they wont”.

            LeBlanc (the goalie) ended up in the Hawks System. Tough guy of all tough guys. D-Rose??? Ever watch that game?

        • August 15, 2013 at 3:31 pm
          Agent says:
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          Hey FFA. Have you ever seen the parking lot at the athletic dorms of any major football power? I have and it is full of BMW’s and other expensive vehicles. I wonder how these poor athletes on scholarship was able to afford them, pay for the gas, insurance etc. Every once in a while, there is a scandal and some school gets put on probation for illegal inducements to get a kid to go to school there. Is that a form of professional sports? There is big, big money involved with the major schools and college sports.

          • August 15, 2013 at 4:59 pm
            FFA says:
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            Was in South Bend a few weeks back. Notre Dame – What a Sight! Summer so barely any students there.

          • August 16, 2013 at 12:12 pm
            Agent says:
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            I always liked Herb Brooks. He was a very tough coach who drilled those young guys unmercifully and he got rid of the ones who wouldn’t pay the price. That was back in the day when the work ethic was a lot stronger than it is today. Mike Aruziani (may have spelled his name wrong) was a great leader of that team and that team refused to lose to a vastly superior Russian team.

        • August 21, 2013 at 6:13 pm
          Agent says:
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          Libby, while you are cruising around the internet, you should go on FirstTee.org. This organization has many sponsors including the PGA Tour. They do more for young people than about anything I have heard of. They teach golf, but more importantly integrity ,manners, respect for elders, honesty, sportsmanship and serve a lot of disadvantaged youth. It is amazing what they have done in a few short years. Many of these youth get scholarships to pursue education. It is quite a noble cause.

          • August 22, 2013 at 9:08 am
            Libby says:
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            That’s great. I support any organization helping others.

          • August 23, 2013 at 5:36 pm
            Agent says:
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            Also, there is no other professional sport who gives more to charities than the PGA Tour. They are closing in on giving $2Billion this year and it is all to worthwhile charities. Each week, several million is raised for charities in the city they are playing in. I believe you can lump almost all the team sports giving together and couldn’t match the PGA Tour.

  • August 15, 2013 at 1:03 pm
    Libby says:
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    Here’s a link to an animated video that explains Obamacare in easy-to-understand language. Good resource for clients…

    http://kff.org/health-reform/video/youtoons-obamacare-video/

  • August 15, 2013 at 1:21 pm
    jw says:
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    I just found the motherload of info on the ACA. Well, it’s a Q&A thing we did and it’s been posted to our intranet. Take any future info I provide with a grain of salt (a shot tequila and a wedge of lime).

  • August 16, 2013 at 11:13 am
    Sargeant Major says:
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    FFA said- “I’m not her spouse!!!”

    FFA, inside joke. If you did not see her post in one of last weeks articles you missed it. Hateful, leftist, foul mouthed Libby called me a 5’5″ bald, di*khead. Typical for her. Then she got mad when I said “she must have been talking about her spouse”.

    She is a typical liberal Democrat- She can dish it out but can’t take it. She can start calling people names, trash talk etc. But give it back to her and she turns on the moron meter.

    • August 16, 2013 at 11:30 am
      Libby says:
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      I can take anything you want to dish out, Sarge. BRING IT ON. LOL!

    • August 16, 2013 at 12:18 pm
      Agent says:
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      Hey Sargeant, I am a veteran agent and I still have a full head of hair although I feel like tearing it out seeing what I see on an everyday basis. These employee bloggers like Libby, Ron, jw, Planet, Nebraskan and others have no idea what a business owner goes through to run a business since they don’t have to make payroll or pay the bills of the business. If we want to be successful, we are just greedy and we should just “share the wealth”. They have bought into the Obama line completely. If I were their employer, I would be handing them a box and telling them to clear out their desk.

      • August 16, 2013 at 12:50 pm
        Libby says:
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        You don’t have to be an “employer” to understand how to budget and pay bills, Agent. I have run a business before, and a household, thank you very much.

        If Sarge currently pays for benefits, as he claims, what difference does it make if he has 49 or 51 people? Coverage could remain in place. Instead he is throwing his employees out to the very same exchanges he has bad-mouthed and said would end up costing them more money. All in order to keep the money for himself and his “partners.”

        Is that greedy? You tell me.

      • August 16, 2013 at 2:00 pm
        Ron says:
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        Agent,

        If being an employer is so terrible, then close up shop and join us lowly employees. You sound just like those that think people on welfare are living the high life. Try trading places and see how wonderful their lives are.

        I hope you do not actually make employment decision based on political beliefs over production and value to the organization. If that is the case, then I would be walking out of the door with a smile on my face.

        • August 16, 2013 at 2:12 pm
          FFA says:
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          Ron Says “If being an employer is so terrible”.
          Its not terrible being an employer. Not sure where you came up with that. Nothing in his post stated or implied that it was terrible being an employer.

          Employers do have to make decisions based on the greater good so no one hits the unemployment line.

          Libby – Greedy??? I think not. Seems to me he struggled to get the best possible fit for the greater good – so no one hits the unemployment line. He is doing a better job then OBama is on that point.

          That’s what employers struggle with – keeping people working – make sure pay checks don’t bounce. That’s why the people that write pay checks hate this thing.

          • August 16, 2013 at 2:25 pm
            Libby says:
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            Just where in his post did you get the idea he is struggling for the greater good? He said “When ACA goes into effect, the brokerage will get employee paid/subsidized benefits and those in the PEO will be referred to the ACA exchange. Currently, we subsidize much of the healthcare cost and just about 100% are enrolled.”

            So, I’ll say it again: “If Sarge currently pays for benefits, as he claims, what difference does it make if he has 49 or 51 people? Coverage could remain in place. Instead he is throwing his employees out to the very same exchanges he has bad-mouthed and said would end up costing them more money.”

            Please explain that to me, FFA. I realize I’m just a lowly W2 and may not understand all these complicated decisions you business owners must face, so use little words. OK?

          • August 16, 2013 at 2:29 pm
            Ron says:
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            FFA,

            How about where Agent said, “These employee bloggers like Libby, Ron, jw, Planet, Nebraskan and others have no idea what a business owner goes through to run a business since they don’t have to make payroll or pay the bills of the business. If we want to be successful, we are just greedy and we should just “share the wealth”.

            Sounds like complaining to me.

          • August 16, 2013 at 2:56 pm
            FFA says:
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            Ron, there is always a complaint. Always one thing after another popping up.

            Libby, I stated it SEEMS like that because he is splitting the company and some are going into a PEO. That’s not an ideal situation for anyone to be in.

            “Currently, we subsidize much of the healthcare cost and just about 100% are enrolled”. An enrollment of that %%% INDICATES he treats his people as well as he can.

          • August 16, 2013 at 3:13 pm
            Libby says:
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            You still didn’t answer my question, FFA.

            “If Sarge currently pays for benefits, as he claims, what difference does it make if he has 49 or 51 people? Coverage could remain in place. Instead he is throwing his employees out to the very same exchanges he has bad-mouthed and said would end up costing them more money.”

          • August 16, 2013 at 4:03 pm
            FFA says:
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            “If Sarge currently pays for benefits, as he claims, what difference does it make if he has 49 or 51 people?”
            I don’t know. He does. Did you see the numbers? I may have missed them. My best guess is that the premiums are skyrocketing.

            “Coverage could remain in place.”

            You cant know that. Premiums have yet to be released. No one can know that.

            On his current plan, he needs to be bracing for a 30% jump. That’s what my carrier told me.

          • August 16, 2013 at 4:10 pm
            Libby says:
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            “I don’t know. He does.”

            Exactly.

          • August 16, 2013 at 4:12 pm
            Libby says:
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            Even if you passed more cost on to the employee, it’s better than them having to pay the entire thing themselves. Or do you not agree with that either?

          • August 19, 2013 at 12:16 pm
            FFA says:
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            Last I checked, the Employer is prohibited from deduction Individual Premiums even if the employer compensates the employee for the premiums.

            THAT I HAVE SEEN, this law does not change that position there by screwing the individuals that are being forced into the Exchanges because of inflated cost of group coverage.

            You talk about Cost Shifting to the employee – this is doing that exactly.

          • August 19, 2013 at 12:26 pm
            Libby says:
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            I’m talking about shifting higher employee contributions for group coverage, FFA. If the employee currently pays $50 (as Sarge said), even if premiums go up by $50 and that is passed on to the employee it is cheaper than them having to buy individual coverage through the exchange. Instead, he is cancelling group coverage and forcing them into the exchange. That’s getting screwed. By your own employer.

          • August 19, 2013 at 2:59 pm
            FFA says:
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            Currently, Individual premiums in IL are less then half of group.
            This move could actually save the employees money on the insurance bill.
            Of course, we all know this is going to kick their taxes one way or another so over all it will probably be a sharp increase… At least in Illinois….

          • August 19, 2013 at 3:34 pm
            Libby says:
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            IL must be wacky. I’ve never heard of individual coverage being cheaper than group coverage. That defeats the whole purpose of having a group. The law of large numbers…

            How is that possible?

          • August 19, 2013 at 4:26 pm
            FFA says:
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            Libby Says “IL must be wacky.”
            I would use a different word, but wacky is polite…
            “I’ve never heard of individual coverage being cheaper than group coverage.”
            Been the norm here for years…
            “That defeats the whole purpose of having a group. The law of large numbers…”
            Large number of unhealthy people makes it necessary to charge “unhealthy people ” premiums… The purpose of a group in IL is to get people insurance that cant (except for I Chip).
            “How is that possible”
            Its been the norm so long here, I was wondering how any where else could be different. Lucky You.

            Now I understand your perspective – why you think OBama Care is so great. Now you know why I think its not going to work with out massive tax hikes…

          • August 20, 2013 at 7:15 am
            jw says:
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            Ok, FFA and Libby, if the exchange in IL is run by the feds, would it follow the rest of the nation norm (group cheaper than individual) or the IL norm? This will be interesting to follow. It could get ugly, too.

          • August 20, 2013 at 11:37 am
            FFA says:
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            JW, maybe that was the motivation for IL going fed??
            Wont know the answer to that question until we can actually price things out.

        • August 16, 2013 at 5:21 pm
          Agent says:
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          Ron, if I had an employee like you, I would be showing you the door. Don’t let it hit you on the way out. I have been there and done that working for a company and it is far better being an Independent Agent than working for a company or broker. At least I have some control over what happens to my business and employees. You could be handed a pink slip tomorrow and would be out on the street hoping some greedy company would hire you.

          • August 19, 2013 at 10:14 am
            Ron says:
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            Agent,

            Typical response from you. You have no idea what kind of employee I am, yet you are willing to show me the door based on what, my political beliefs? You do not even know what my political beliefs are. You only know that I disagree with you on some points and somehow that makes me a Liberal/Progressive/Democrat.

            Or is it because you don’t think I appreciate the risk business owners take and all of the hard work they put in to create a job for me? That is the farthest from the truth. Where have I ever criticized anyone for becoming successful or indicated that they should share the wealth? Just do not act like you could have built your business to where it is today without your employees and understand that they also work hard and make sacrifices for the success of you business. If they do not, then fire them.

            You think you have control. If the ACA destroys the economy like you say it will, where will all of your business come from?

            I was a vicitm of corporate downsizing already. I was only unemployed for a month and have landed at a place that has a better enviroment and pays more. It is because I busted my butt building my credentials earning my CPCU and Master’s Degree in Management and also building my network.

            If I receive another pink slip then I will dust mtyself off and start again. What will you do when President Obama finally detroys the economy?

          • August 19, 2013 at 10:48 am
            Libby says:
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            Agent thinks he’s a one-man band and self-made business owner. He gives no credit to the little W-2er’s that helped him get where he is today; the big, bad, boss of his universe. I’ve worked with plenty of his kind.

      • August 16, 2013 at 2:03 pm
        jw says:
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        Riiigght.

    • August 16, 2013 at 12:30 pm
      FFA says:
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      Basic description fit me….
      easy to figure out who the employers are here and who the employees are.
      At the end of the day Sarge, you, agent and I as an employers are part of the solution. I’ve had to hire two in the past 60 days. Interviewing some college kids for their role in my OBama Care Marketing and will most likely be hiring a Spanish speaking person.
      Spending a lot of money to market this thing. Cant afford a mis fire.

      • August 16, 2013 at 12:52 pm
        Libby says:
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        So you think being an employer makes you more valuable than others? You wouldn’t even have a business if you didn’t have good people working for you. Don’t forget that in your haste to pat yourself on the back. All of you.

        • August 16, 2013 at 1:40 pm
          FFA says:
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          Where did I say that???

          I am very aware of the value of my staff. When extra money is the account, they get bonus money. Not so much any more due in large part to the cost of Medical Insurance and my jack ass governer with his Comp Reform. I would much rather give my right hand more money on every pay check vs sending it to OBama (July monthly tax deposit was $6K) to blow on what ever his whim of the day is or the Health Insurance Carrier.
          No one deserves the money more then my right hand man.
          Instead, it has to go to cover the increase in the cost of doing business, something W2 people GENERALLY do not understand or comprehend…

          • August 16, 2013 at 2:09 pm
            jw says:
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            I agree. Most of the people I work with don’t care about the bottom line or doing their part to curb spending. I care, actually, and will bless out those that don’t care. I’m sure there are other worker bees out there who try to do the right think for the company as a whole. But I understand that most don’t.

          • August 16, 2013 at 2:14 pm
            Libby says:
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            “W2 people” as you call them comprehend and understand plenty. Unfortunately, we are not privy to the financial goings-on of the agency. Maybe if employers did a better job of communicating, they would get more support from their “W2’s”. I would much rather give up 5% of my salary than lose my job or have one of my co-workers lose their job. We are rarely given that option. Everyone knows what it’s like to have to tighten your belt and I’d much rather feel like I was part of the solution than just a “W2”.

          • August 16, 2013 at 2:17 pm
            Libby says:
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            jw, I don’t agree. When you are treated like an ignorant underling, you tend to act like one. If employers and managers did more to foster a team spirit and “We’re in this together” atmosphere, you’d be suprised at how some of your co-workers would rally around them. But there will always be those that are only concerned with themselves. They should open a business, because they’d fit right in with alot of the bosses I’ve had during my 33 year career.

          • August 16, 2013 at 2:42 pm
            FFA says:
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            Because of people like Sarge, Agent, your dad my dad and every single military man before them and after them , you have the option of starting your own agency as principle. If you want to see the books, become your own boss and start getting 1099’s instead of W2’s. If you not the principle, you don’t have any right asking to see the books. They are not yours.

            You made your decision to do what it is you do. That’s your right as it is mine, sarges, rons, bobs, ect to make their own decision, to do what ever it is they choose to do……

          • August 16, 2013 at 2:48 pm
            Agent says:
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            FFA, I knew I would get a rise out of the W-2ers on this blog, Libby for sure. I have a number of fine employees who have been with me for years, one for 15 years and I have not heard complaints from them. I compensate them well, provide excellent facilities, computer systems, flexible hours and they appreciate it. We also bonus them when we can. As you know FFA, the cost of doing business keeps rising in all areas. Having the extra burdens coming our way with Obamacare is not making it easier, only harder. Libby wants us to share our financial info with the employees so they can understand better. Forget that, it is none of their business and that is the way it will stay.

          • August 16, 2013 at 2:58 pm
            Libby says:
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            I don’t want to see your books, FFA, anymore than my company’s books. What I’m suggesting is you let people know what’s going on in the place where they spend the most time out of the day. But go ahead and be Secret Squirrel. And you’ll end up with “W2ers” and mindless drones for employees.

            I love what I do and don’t want to be the owner. I just want respect and appreciation for my contribution. Is that too much to ask?

          • August 16, 2013 at 3:02 pm
            Libby says:
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            I could give a rat’s ass about your finances, Agent. As usual, you “business owners” jump on the “I’m the boss and it’s none of your business” bandwagon. I never said I want to see your books or know about your finances. But if you’re making life and death decisions about people’s livelihoods, I suggest it would be good to be open and honest with those people for a better result.

            But again, it’s your business, you do what you want. I’m sure you think you know what’s best. After all, you’re the boss. And I’m sure you don’t let your people forget it either.

          • August 19, 2013 at 8:19 am
            jw says:
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            I don’t need to see anyone’s books, either. I think you can tell how a company is doing by their attitude. That’s more telling than income statements. Anyway, it doesn’t matter. I choose to be a worker bee – I don’t even want a job that depends on commission. I want to know exactly what my pay check will be every time.

          • August 20, 2013 at 12:01 pm
            FFA says:
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            Libby says “W2 people” as you call them”.
            The IRS calls them that. If you don’t like the term petition the IRS to change their ways and I will adapt.

          • August 20, 2013 at 12:46 pm
            jw says:
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            Well, you could call your employees “my employees” instead of “W-2 people.” I’ll always be a W-2er, I just don’t have the nerve for running my own business, nor do I want to. The joy of going home -and not having to worry about making payroll, paying other bills, having enough revenue to do whatever- yeah, that joy is worth being further down on the food chain for me.

            It’s a choice, for everyone. I’m very glad you (and other business owners) have made the choice to lead. It gives me someone to follow. ;)

          • August 20, 2013 at 1:25 pm
            FFA says:
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            I refer to my employees as my staff. I refer to the general population of the US that are employees of any business as a W2 worker. When your self employed, you get a 1099. So, your boss probably call you a Staff Member. At the end of the year, you get a W2.

            Make no mistake, I know how valuable my employees are to my operations. #3 quoting more business today. I just don’t know where she is coming up with all this stuff. Nor do I care.

          • August 20, 2013 at 3:14 pm
            Libby says:
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            It’s demeaning.

          • August 20, 2013 at 3:34 pm
            FFA says:
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            Libby say “It’s demeaning.” Why?? Its a legal term in the law books – an IRS Term.

          • August 20, 2013 at 3:43 pm
            Libby says:
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            I have never heard the term before and somehow doubt it is written in the IRS tax code. Why don’t you just call us Joe Schmoes or Poor Schlubs? It has the same ring to it.

            I prefer employee, associate, colleague. But not W-2 person.

          • August 20, 2013 at 4:11 pm
            FFA says:
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            W2 is indeed a tax form. People either get a W2 or a 1099.
            I guess we are just going to agree to disagree,,,,

          • August 20, 2013 at 4:24 pm
            Libby says:
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            I know W-2 is a tax form. I’ve never heard anyone call their employees W-2ers.

          • August 20, 2013 at 4:45 pm
            FFA says:
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            Again Libby, I refer to my STAFF a STAFF members, not employees. Its just a generic term like Bald vs Hair Challenged. I don’t get offended when people call me bald. I am.

          • August 20, 2013 at 4:52 pm
            Libby says:
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            Good for you. The term offends me. Let’s just leave it at that.

        • August 16, 2013 at 3:32 pm
          FFA says:
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          ” What I’m suggesting is you let people know what’s going on in the place where they spend the most time out of the day”.

          My staff knows everything they need to know. They know what revenue they generate. They know what my comp & unemployment factors are. They know when a company pulls cost shifting.

          Soon, I’ll be off to the lake. Going to see what $350K buys me lake front. After all, I am thinking OBama Care is going to make me filthy rich. I am truly taking advantage of the large sum of money already spent advertising this thing. My web site can now handle 8000 people at the same time. Hell, I may never have to come to work again. Just pay my right hand more and let him staff the place. He is very capable. I’ll show up on the 1st & 15th to sign the checks and drain the account of what is left..

          Do I dare dream?????

          • August 16, 2013 at 5:57 pm
            Agent says:
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            Why FFA, you will have the W-2 people up in arms since you are one of those filthy rich Capitalists who doesn’t want to “share the wealth”. You and I have lived the American dream of business ownership. The problem we have is hanging onto it without the government trying to take it away with this travesty of much higher taxes and healthcare costs.

          • August 19, 2013 at 8:25 am
            jw says:
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            Agent, there you go generalizing again. Don’t assume all “W-2 people” are against personal gain at the top of the food chain. I honestly don’t care how much money anyone above me makes. All that matters is I am compensated appropriately for my work. If I think I’m underpaid, I’ll look for a new job. Otherwise, leave me alone and let me do my work. That’s ALL I ask of a boss.

          • August 19, 2013 at 5:42 pm
            FFA says:
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            4350K buys a little 900 sqft shack with a tiny kitchen and two very small Bed Rooms…. A tear down.

            $1.2 buys about 1200 sq feet house with a lot of lake access…. Guess I’ll just hang out in the Getho.

      • August 20, 2013 at 12:15 pm
        Agent says:
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        FFA, I have gone the route of hiring young producers in the past 10 years. They didn’t have the same work ethic we had when we were young and didn’t want to pay the price for success, beat the streets and bring business in. We gave them all the training possible, showed them what to do, advanced them salary against commission, gave them a book to service and they still failed. We had to cut our losses and send them on their way. It is a tough game selling insurance and most don’t have what it takes.

        • August 20, 2013 at 1:28 pm
          FFA says:
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          when he was in College, he was one of the best I ever had. He graduates, stops producing and wants more $$$$.

          • August 21, 2013 at 7:47 am
            jw says:
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            That is so sad, and such a telling statement.

        • August 20, 2013 at 3:12 pm
          Libby says:
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          Agent – that strategy rarely works. I’ve seen it tried in a couple of shops and they usually end up washing out. It’s not as easy as it looks and there is alot to know to be a successful insurance sales person.

          • August 21, 2013 at 6:21 pm
            Agent says:
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            You know who is the most worthless? That is the son that inherits the business from the daddy. He worked hard to build the agency. The boy was raised with a silver spoon and never had to produce. Then, suddenly he has to do it and doesn’t have a clue. I have seen several substantial agencies fall dramatically under that scenario.

          • August 22, 2013 at 9:05 am
            Libby says:
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            Yeah, I fell victim to that in Denver in 08. Was laid off for 9 months.

  • August 16, 2013 at 3:20 pm
    Agent says:
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    Libby, As I said before, my employees do not complain about how I run the business. I have never laid off anyone for any reason except job performance and that has been very few and far between and with prior counseling and proper review before letting them go. These were people who just wanted a paycheck every two weeks and were not getting their work out despite our training them well. Personal problems were at the heart of it and we can’t control that. Us business owners have to do what is best for our business and to retain our customers. There is just so much in the till to pay bills every month and if you had the responsibility that we have, you might sing a different tune.

    • August 16, 2013 at 3:52 pm
      Libby says:
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      There is only so much in my till to pay bills every month, too, Agent. I understand having to allocate and budget. It’s not like healthcare increases are a new phenomenon and only due to Obamacare. They have been happening for the past 10 years. If you offered benefits to your employees you would know that. If you don’t what are you complaining about?

      • August 16, 2013 at 4:04 pm
        Agent says:
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        I do offer benefits and have seen all my bills increase, not just Health Insurance. I get a printout at the end of each month which details our agency expenses. I compare them to the identical month from last year. The only thing that is slightly less is our postage since we do so much by email, download. Of course, some of our excess/surplus lines markets now download their policies to us and we have to mail to the customer. They don’t pay extra commission on their policies so we have to eat it, use up our printer on their 50 page policies so we end up with higher paper and printing costs. Out of 40 or 50 categories of expenses, all of them are higher than last year. I wonder if your employer would tell you that their cost of doing business is lower now.

        • August 16, 2013 at 4:08 pm
          Libby says:
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          Of course not, don’t be a fool. I know costs are up and revenues were down. That’s what I mean. Your W2ers know what’s going on, so why not just ask for their support? Are you too proud? Are they not valuable enough to share with? Or is that it’s none of their business? People want to be a part of something and not just a W2.

          • August 16, 2013 at 4:25 pm
            Agent says:
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            Libby, stop it! Of course we have agency meetings from time to time to discuss issues and give them a summary of what is going on in the industry and how business is going and we have at times over the years not been able to bonus as much as we would like or give raises if times were a little leaner. Stop trying to make FFA & myself as the bad guys. You are failing miserably.

          • August 16, 2013 at 4:32 pm
            Libby says:
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            Well, that’s not what you said.

            You said “Libby wants us to share our financial info with the employees so they can understand better. Forget that, it is none of their business and that is the way it will stay.”

            So YOU stop it.

  • August 16, 2013 at 3:21 pm
    FFA says:
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    ““I’m the boss and it’s none of your business” bandwagon.”
    Its not a band wagon. I am the boss. Its my signature on my staffs pay checks.
    ” I’m sure you think you know what’s best. After all, you’re the boss”
    Yes. Its my business. I will do what I have to so I can survive. I will do what ever it takes to pull people off the unemployment line and do what I can so I don’t have to send another one home with their last pay check.

    Every 1st & 15th my people get reminded I am the boss as I hand them their pay checks and say “Thank You” to them all every time.
    My right hand was very pleased. He went off the tax charts.

    • August 16, 2013 at 3:54 pm
      Libby says:
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      Was very pleased with what?

      • August 16, 2013 at 4:05 pm
        FFA says:
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        His pay check yesterday. His gross was off the tax chart.

      • August 16, 2013 at 4:13 pm
        Libby says:
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        I take it he’s a producer.

        • August 16, 2013 at 4:23 pm
          FFA says:
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          Yes, he is. They all are. Simple rule here – produce or get fired. My new gal – has got someth9ign to quote every day she has been here. Just got #4’s tech issues worked out. Next week, she will be in “silent” production mode. Populating 2000 E Mail address @ week to blast out.
          Meeting with my NIU students on Tuesday to explore their role. I get the feeling they want in just for the experience – no pay.

          • August 16, 2013 at 4:28 pm
            Libby says:
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            Well, if he’s a producer he’s paying your paycheck and not the other way around.

          • August 16, 2013 at 4:29 pm
            Libby says:
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            Who services so the producers can produce?

          • August 16, 2013 at 4:36 pm
            Libby says:
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            I’ll add one more thing: Producers have their OWN business. Their book. They don’t need or care to know how you’re doing with yours. They know for a certain percentage, you provide space, phone, heat, and electric and you make a little profit. Otherwise, they’re on their own. Not the same as hourly or salaried service staff by a long shot.

          • August 16, 2013 at 4:46 pm
            FFA says:
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            I dump 100% of new business house cut back into marketing him. I put the plan together, he works it. The more he produces, the more we spend. The more we spend, the more he produces. its a simple loop. I wait a year for my profit. Who services??? #4 will be servicing, but for now, until she is up to speed, everyone and anyone that answers the phone.
            Its not his business as I originally invested in him. For 18 months, he was a cost, not a profit center.

            In my office – I OWN THE BOOK. Its in their contract. Besides, he will never leave me. Loyalty. I commit to them. They commit to me. They know I am committed to the commitment…

          • August 16, 2013 at 4:52 pm
            FFA says:
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            BTW, they have a base and a comm schedule… Finding someone, anyone to come in on Comm only is a pipe dream at best.

            I get the feeling that by then end of the year, he is going to want to readjust. a 50/50 split on house commish. If its in his advantage, I’ll agree. I would rather write a 1099 instead of a W2. No more Unemployment on him. No SS Tax. That’s 13.05% less expense I can use in the formula.

            I’m on east Coast hours today. Have a great week end!

          • August 19, 2013 at 9:53 am
            Libby says:
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            FFA – it’s a figure of speech. It is his business because his livlihood depends on it. You may ultimately own it in the end, but any good producer must look at his book as his business.

    • August 16, 2013 at 4:11 pm
      Agent says:
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      I’m with you FFA. One of my highly compensated ladies is phenomenal. She handles a large volume of Commercial Business, acts as manager of the other CSR’s/employees and does the agency accounting for us. We bought Key Person Life on her, but I honestly don’t know what we would do without her. She is a joy to work with and extremely efficient. She knows the markets, how to find coverage for a difficult risk and puts the info together for submission. She also prints out the quotes professionally for the Producer so the risk can be sold. I think I would have to hire at least two or possibly three to do what she does.

      • August 16, 2013 at 4:14 pm
        Libby says:
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        Highly compensated. Over 6 figures?

        • August 16, 2013 at 4:18 pm
          Agent says:
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          No Libby, but she is way above average for the industry and she makes a lot more than her husband, I assure you. They live a very nice lifestyle because the cost of living in Texas is much lower than your Blue State of Pennsylvania or any of the other N/E states.

          • August 16, 2013 at 4:26 pm
            Libby says:
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            I handled a $1.2M revenue book of business and my salary was based on 10% of my book. That’s because producers made 50% on new business and 30% on renewal. The 10% they paid me came out of the 20% they saved. That’s because his job was to produce, mine was to do all those things producers did that took away from selling. That included marketing and selling renewals, partnering with the producer on sales opportunities and managing a team of account managers,assistants, claims and loss control. They were compensated with the other 10% of the commision. If I lost business, it came out of my pocket. Because of that, I was highly motivated to grow my book.

          • August 16, 2013 at 5:13 pm
            Agent says:
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            Everything you said was in past tense like you used to do it. You sure like to toot your horn, don’t you? We, as agency owners also produce new and renewal business. We hire good people to service it for us. In addition, they are all licensed and can produce and sell for commission income on anything they develop on their own. We don’t give them call in business which is the agency’s. Some of our CSR’s have written some good business which supplements their salary nicely.

          • August 19, 2013 at 9:05 am
            Libby says:
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            Not tooting my own horn, Agent. Just telling you how other agencies, in BIG CITIES, work. And yes, it’s past tense. Because when I moved to PA to get married, the area is very rural and there aren’t alot of large commercial accounts around. Things are still done with the producer and “his girl” probably like in your agency.

  • August 16, 2013 at 4:04 pm
    FFA says:
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    Just got an email from BCBS.

    They will not be writing any more individual policies until the new exchange polices are ready on 1/1/14.

    so, even if you need it and can afford it, OBama took that option away.

    • August 16, 2013 at 4:15 pm
      Agent says:
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      Hmm! I haven’t got that email yet. All I got was their 13 page Producers Agreement to sign and send back. I think the next most lengthy agreement we have is about 6 pages. Their attorney’s wanted to make sure they covered all the bases and that we were responsible for anything that went wrong with customers.

  • August 19, 2013 at 10:11 am
    FFA says:
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    Driving thorough the Wis Dells this week end, I saw Sticker that read
    “You can trust the Government, just ask an (American) Indian.”
    Guess he has a point!

  • August 19, 2013 at 1:57 pm
    Sargeant Major says:
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    Agent said- ” others have no idea what a business owner goes through to run a business since they don’t have to make payroll or pay the bills of the business. If we want to be successful, we are just greedy and we should just “share the wealth”.”

    The ACA costs to do what we are now is going to be unacceptable. Right now we have one of the best benefit deals around. Employees work hard and we don’t have a problem with turnover. We also ay profit sharing which rolls over 3 years so the payout can be very good if you stay.
    That said what we are trying to do is come out of ACA with a cost structure close to what we have now. hat is why we are making the decisions we have made. Unfortunately, I did not put ACA in place, the President did. Unfortunately our benefit people tell me the costs for our business will likely go up, at least 60 to 75% maybe more. So, we are operating WITHIN THE LAW and doing what we need to do so that we can remain competitive. Fact of the matter is, those who remain in the agency operation will see their healthcare costs rise as well. If the liberal Democrats don’t like it they should have read the bill and not approved it.
    On a good note, I have a partner who thinks we can make money with the PEO and is working on a plan to bring other business to it. We have hired someone with PEO and insurance benefit experience so we will see.
    That is business. If people don’t like it the can take their own money and start their own shop. But don’t let Libby know she will make fun of you and say “A little one-man shop does not qualify as being an employer.”

    • August 19, 2013 at 3:50 pm
      Agent says:
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      Sargeant, It looks like the W-2’ers on this blog don’t like your comments about what a business owner has to do to stay in business. That’s ok. FFA & I think you are a smart businessman to do what you are doing. They think we should just eat all the big increases in healthcare benefits, give them a raise and share the wealth with them even more. What do you think about all these Navigators being hired with little or no training, no background checks and they will have access to personal info and socials of applicants? Do you think there could be a little ID theft going on? I also don’t want my info to be shared by 7 Federal Agencies, do you? The governments recent record with IRS & NSA is not too sterling in my opinion.

      • August 19, 2013 at 3:59 pm
        Libby says:
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        You don’t know what I think, Agent. So keep your remarks to yourself. I know in my office, and most of my colleagues offices, employers with 50+ employees do not anticipate changes to the benefits program due to Obamacare. So there would be no reason to cancel benefits, hire a PEO, split your payroll (which I somehow doubt is kosher), and throw your employees to the wolves. Other than it benefits the partners aka. pricipals of the agency.

      • August 19, 2013 at 5:57 pm
        Sargeant Major says:
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        Agent, I agree. We have some W-2 employees but everyone sells here, everyone. Whether you are selling service, support, claim service, whatever- you sell W-2 or not. If you don’t you probably won’t last. Those who do get paid pretty well, Those on Commission get a base and comm and profit sharing and earn in benefits. It is granted based on contribution each year. So you earn it but it does not vest for three years. You don’t stay, you lose it. You stay for longer than 3 years, it starts paying out every year. Leave after three years, five years etc, lose what is in your pot. Some have a large pot of money.

        So what are the drivers to profit sharing? Revenue, underwriting profit/agency profitability or loss and agency COST. If costs go up profit sharing goes down as does the amount of a raise. My bet is that if you took a poll (and we have) the majority would vote for cost containment.

  • August 19, 2013 at 2:07 pm
    Sargeant Major says:
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    Libby said- “I don’t think he’s an employer, either. He said he has “partners.” I’m just glad I don’t have to work with him. He’s a nasty piece of work.”

    This proves Libby’s job is licking letters- She does not even have any concept of who an owner is.

    Libby, you would not have to worry about working with me. I have a minority partner who runs operations (IT, services, maintenance, policy services and customer service) and he would have fired you long ago for wasting so much of your PAID time posting idiot messages on this blog. The agency tracks internet time by employee.

    • August 19, 2013 at 2:51 pm
      Libby says:
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      My boss is very happy with my work. I manage to get done a full day’s worth and still blog on here. You would be lucky to have someone like me. My last boss had to hire 3 people to do what I did.

  • August 19, 2013 at 2:25 pm
    Sargeant Major says:
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    Well, the cheat is out. I posted at 2:07 and at 2:15 It got 19 thumbs down. Way to go Libby, only you would have done that and now we know who the cheat is- HaHaHa!. Talk about a nasty piece of work- LOL,LOL,LOL,LOL

    • August 19, 2013 at 2:49 pm
      Libby says:
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      Nope. Not me Sarge. I can only vote once a day. But nice try. You probably did it yourself so you could point the finger at me. Now go away, little man.

      • August 19, 2013 at 3:44 pm
        Sargeant Major says:
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        A liar of the first order- You were caught, letter licker HaHaHA

        • August 19, 2013 at 4:03 pm
          Libby says:
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          If I could have censored you, I would have done it a long, long time ago you blowhard.

        • August 20, 2013 at 7:22 am
          jw says:
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          what the heck is a letter licker?

          • August 20, 2013 at 8:45 am
            Libby says:
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            He thinks I’m a no-nothing, do-nothing, drone. But, as usual, he’s wrong. I’ll pit my wits against his any day of the week. And come out ahead.

        • August 20, 2013 at 7:23 am
          Gotcha! says:
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          Libby’s not lying.

          • August 20, 2013 at 8:46 am
            Libby says:
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            Thank you, Gotcha! Believe me, if I could I would!

  • August 19, 2013 at 2:36 pm
    Sargeant Major says:
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    Libby said- “So. Leaving your employees out in the cold to fend for themselves on the exchange. Nice!”

    It is better than a permanent lay off and complete loss of employment

    • August 19, 2013 at 3:03 pm
      FFA says:
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      Your not alone sarge….

      • August 19, 2013 at 3:40 pm
        Sargeant Major says:
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        FFA- From her reaction it would appear she would have preferred I lay them all off rather than give them employment in a PEO.

        • August 19, 2013 at 3:59 pm
          FFA says:
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          Employers of all sizes are making hard decisions. I quoted up #3 on my group F 50 healthy – $840.00 @ month with a $5K ded….

          • August 19, 2013 at 4:40 pm
            Libby says:
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            How much was it for individual coverage?

          • August 19, 2013 at 5:09 pm
            FFA says:
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            Little over $400 with BCBS $1K Ded. Same help true for the person I had to let go last November.

            No Advantage to going on the group for either.

          • August 20, 2013 at 8:47 am
            Libby says:
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            Interesting.

          • August 20, 2013 at 11:43 am
            FFA says:
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            Libby says “Interesting”.
            Again, I have a different word… Interesting would be polite…

            JW brings up an interesting question- How much rate does the rest of the nation need to take on to off set states like IL? I would think there are more states then IL in the same boat – Group more expensive then individual.

          • August 20, 2013 at 12:37 pm
            Libby says:
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            FFA – Obamacare is not National Healthcare. It is still written by private carriers on a state-by-state basis. No other state is going to offset Illinois’ experience. You’re on your own like it’s always been.

          • August 20, 2013 at 12:56 pm
            jw says:
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            Ok, this is too complicated…

            If the people from IL are going through a Federal exchange, does that mean they are a part of a different subset?

            Will all the federal exchange participants be purchasing the same product or will that product still differ from state to state?

            (KY has a state exchange, so I don’t know what will happen in other states)

          • August 20, 2013 at 1:48 pm
            FFA says:
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            HMMMMM….

            On to a marketing question – do I advertise Obama Care or Affordable Care Act???

          • August 20, 2013 at 2:17 pm
            Libby says:
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            The exchange is just a place to go to find the healthcare options available to you in your state. Just because the Feds set it up doesn’t mean it’s any different than other states that set up their own. It just means that state is not entitled to some of the federal funding the other states were eligible for.

            An agent can sell on the exchange or against the exchange, depending on the circumstances.

            FFA, I would use both in my marketing ie. Affordable Care Act, aka Obamacare.

  • August 19, 2013 at 3:43 pm
    Sargeant Major says:
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    Libby said- ” “A little one-man shop does not qualify as being an employer.”

    Libby also said- “Things are still done with the producer and “his girl” probably like in your agency.

    So you are employed in a “one man shop” and you don’t think they are an employer? I would suggest you tell him that and see what he says. Wow, you really are as dumb as I thought- LOL

    • August 19, 2013 at 4:02 pm
      Libby says:
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      I’m not in a one-man shop, dumbass. I was referring to you. My company has 100+ employees and sees no change coming down the pike regarding our benefits package.

      • August 19, 2013 at 5:28 pm
        Sargeant Major says:
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        Libby, look around. The only dumbass in the room……………….. is you. Have you checked to find out what a partner really is? BTW I am the Managing Partner, confused now?

        • August 19, 2013 at 5:39 pm
          Agent says:
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          And Sargeant, I am the General Partner of my agency with three other “Partners”. When we undertake something, we all meet to discuss it and it has to be unanimous, especially if funding is required. We all get along great and are all Conservative with our approach. Perhaps that is why we have succeeded well in our market for many years. We also don’t have any problems with accessing markets because they know there is a succession plan if one of us dies or retires.

          • August 19, 2013 at 6:04 pm
            Sargeant Major says:
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            Terrific and sounds like a great organization. Funny how markets like good agency operations that are known and have proven themselves. When I was on the company side we looked for agency operations just like yours. Ha, you may have been one of our producing agents!

            How are the Cowboys going to do this year?

        • August 20, 2013 at 8:49 am
          Libby says:
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          Whatever you say, Sarge. And I’m the Queen of Sheba.

          • August 20, 2013 at 10:03 am
            Agent says:
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            Thanks Sargeant for the compliment. We try to do the right thing for our employees and our customers. Perhaps that is why we have a very high retention of customers.

            Regarding the Cowboys, from what I have seen, they are about an 8-8 team or 7-9 and have not improved themselves. They had almost half their roster injured last year and that led to their demise. They paid Romo a boat load of money and now he is injury prone and the offensive line is still porous. The defense is adequate, but they have to stay out on the field too long and get worn down. How do the Lions look this year?

      • August 19, 2013 at 5:48 pm
        Always Amazed says:
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        We’re you grandfathered in?? I used to work for Grainger Industrail Supply and many of my friends who have worked there for 20+ years are being grandfathered in so their plans aren’t changeing. The others pare poop-out-of-luck. Grainger pays very well and I’m sure these folks aren’t going to be subsidized but I do be they are all going to be quite pissed off. Excuse the french!

        • August 19, 2013 at 5:48 pm
          Always Amazed says:
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          Sorry – that s/b were you – I know how critical you can be.

        • August 20, 2013 at 8:52 am
          Libby says:
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          No, not grandfathered in. Just a large enough group and creative enough people to figure it out. Our group dept. is huge.

  • August 19, 2013 at 3:59 pm
    Always Amazed says:
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    Unless something like this happens to you:

    When a household gets the subsidy, the federal government pays their insurance company directly for any amount the household owes that exceeds their percentage-of-income cap.

    No one getting a subsidy ever pays more than 9.5 percent of their income in premiums.

    But if a household earns as little as one dollar over 400 percent of FPL, the household no longer qualifies for a subsidy, and there is no longer a cap on the percentage of income they can be forced to pay for health insurance.

    http://rare.us/story/jeffrey-single-mom-pays-8173-obamacare-penalty-for-a-marriage-license/?utm_source=social&utm_medium=facebook&utm_campaign=Rare+obamacare+fine

    • August 19, 2013 at 4:07 pm
      Libby says:
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      Yeah, well the current tax code penalizes people that are single or married that don’t have children. They pay more in taxes than the families using the schools, parks & rec, and all the other services tax dollars go to support.

      That’s life, sweetheart. It’s not fair and it doesn’t do any good to complain about it. It’s just the way it is.

      • August 19, 2013 at 5:05 pm
        Always Amazed says:
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        That it is Libby that it most certainly is. So then would this article be a bit misleading by IJ. Not everyone is going to get the $2700 tax credit or what ever the entitlement is. You have to qualify for a subsidy and if you do get one and your income changes even by $1 dollar more you’re poop-out-of-luck and then there is no cap on how much an insurance company can charge you in premium. Yes, that’s a great idea. I just can’t wait to see how much my premium is going to be going up. I might not even qualify for a subsidy. What will I do then? I’m required by law to have insurance because as BHO said IT’S. THE. LAW. Unless of course you work for the government then you get a free pass and don’t have to worry about it. Nice going BHO. Not even people who work for the government want this crap insurance but we’re forced to be on it. And still you libs have those stars in your eyes. BHO should be impeached for all the scandals and lies that have been exposed by this administration but goodness no – how would that look if we impeached the first White African American president.

  • August 19, 2013 at 4:11 pm
    Always Amazed says:
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    I had a long conversation with one of my friends who is in the health insurance business. He advised me that he had to fill out an application with the government to become a “navigator”. These are the folks who are going to be assisting people in filling out the 15 page application for health insurance. He also advised that the navigators do not need any background checks nor a criminal check …and these navigators will have access to EVERY PERSONAL DETIAL OF OUR LIVES. He said that someone sitting in a jail cell someplace with a lap top could be your navigator. This 15 page application has every detail of our lives, our full names, address, social security number, income tax information and our medical history all at their finger tips. If this doesn’t cause an alarm to any one out there I wonder about your sanity. This freaks the crap out of me! No criminal or background checks on people who will have every intimate detail on our lives? Can you imagine the credit fraud that will be happening? This is insane and it’s right around the corner from being implemented. Oh, but wait, the government employees have been exempted from Obamacare. How nice for them.

    • August 19, 2013 at 4:33 pm
      FFA says:
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      I am doing the same Always. Everyone in my office is going to be a navigator and I am going to advertise the value of a Home Town Agent over someone sitting in Pakistan, Jail or where ever they come up wit the govt employees….

      IJ article last wee state the Cover Oregon is urging people to go to Home Town agents.

      • August 19, 2013 at 5:25 pm
        Sargeant Major says:
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        FFA, good idea, sending them to their agents. I will bet there will be massive fraud in states like California, New York etc who rely on “Joe the Navigator” call 1 800 I will take you.

        • August 20, 2013 at 10:10 am
          Agent says:
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          Hey Sargeant. I saw a great picture on the net yesterday. It was of our President playing golf in Martha’s Vineyard. On his golf cap was emblazoned – Entitleist. I know this won’t have much meaning for the non golfers out there, but it does for golfers.

          • August 21, 2013 at 3:36 pm
            Libby says:
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            “Our President” I’m proud of you, Agent!

    • August 19, 2013 at 4:35 pm
      Libby says:
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      Are you certain of your facts? It was my understanding that each state was responsible for deciding how they were to be trained and what they were to be doing. The information I have seen says they are there to help you compare different programs to decide which best suits your needs and to help guide you through the health insurance process. NOT fill out your application for you. I could be wrong, but that was my impression by what I have seen. I’ll do more research.

      • August 20, 2013 at 1:04 pm
        jw says:
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        Ok. I think the exchange makes the rule for the navigators. So, for example, the Ky exchange will set the rules and certify (?) navigators.

        • August 20, 2013 at 2:18 pm
          Libby says:
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          Yes.

    • August 19, 2013 at 4:38 pm
      Libby says:
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      Always – Insurance agents can not become Navigators due to a conflict of interest, so not sure how your friend is going to get a job as one.

      • August 19, 2013 at 5:15 pm
        FFA says:
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        “each state” Even the ones in the Federal Exchange?

        • August 20, 2013 at 12:38 pm
          Libby says:
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          Yes.

      • August 19, 2013 at 5:18 pm
        Always Amazed says:
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        His traing starts this week, Libby and he is being tained as a navigator. He’s been in the business sinc 2008 I think he knows what he’s talking about. I was an agent as well and the underwritting process is part of the application and I helped my clients fill out each applicaiton – all were done electronically on a laptop. Probably the very same way they will be done today by some criminal sitting in a cell down at that charm school we have here in Joliet.

        • August 20, 2013 at 10:06 am
          Libby says:
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          The ‘navigators’ are prohibited from having financial ties to an insurance company, but other than that there are few constraints. Union organizers and community activists are among the types that are allowed to be hired as ‘navigators’, and having prior experience working in the health care field doesn’t seem to necessarily be a pre-requisite for the job.”

          Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2013/08/12/obamacare-navigator-program-is-ripe-for-disaster/#ixzz2cWCeCgz0

          I know YOU wouldn’t dispute FoxNews, would you???

          • August 20, 2013 at 11:50 am
            FFA says:
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            This gets more confusing by the minute…..

          • August 20, 2013 at 1:09 pm
            jw says:
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            FFA – I think insurance agents can still help their customers. They aren’t “navigators” and do more than navigators. Agents can sell through the exchange, but they are licensed by the DOI.

        • August 20, 2013 at 10:22 am
          Libby says:
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          In addition, navigators provide only face-to-face services, so there are no worries about felons in prison being navigators. That’s just silly anyhow.

        • August 20, 2013 at 10:50 am
          Libby says:
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          I stand corrected Always:

          Q. Can health insurance brokers or agents become Navigators?

          A. HHS will let agents and brokers serve as navigators, as long as they are not getting any payment, including trailing commissions, from health insurers. But states also have a say, and in many states agents and brokers will not be allowed to serve as navigators or IPAs, though they can collaborate with them. The Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) provides detailed state-by state information in this brief.

          They can become navigators, but they can not also be agents at the same time.

          • August 20, 2013 at 11:51 am
            FFA says:
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            So if an agent is receiving commissions, they cant have a navigator on staff???

          • August 20, 2013 at 12:23 pm
            Always Amazed says:
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            Per my friend who is in the business: “Well : The term ‘ navigator ‘ is specific to a Govt approved position , working in an exchange . Per , Humana , with who we are having a training session this Thursday ,we’ll be able to to sell both ObamaCare exchange plans as well as their ‘ off exchange ‘ plans . We are doing the Govt approved certification next month.”

          • August 20, 2013 at 12:40 pm
            Libby says:
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            That is correct, FFA. But if your marketing plan works the way you think it will, you can provide the very same services the Navigator does and make commission. But you can not BE a Navigator (ie. paid government position.)

          • August 20, 2013 at 1:31 pm
            FFA says:
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            So the college kids I interviewed to be navigators, I can hire them as navigators? They have to get a license?

          • August 20, 2013 at 2:53 pm
            Libby says:
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            You’re misusing the term. Navigators are government employees employed by the exchange. You can’t hire “navigators.” You are hiring agents. So yes, they have to be licensed. The same as any other sales person.

    • August 20, 2013 at 10:39 am
      Agent says:
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      Always, if someone applies for and is written an Obamacare policy in January, they will have to wait 15 1/2 months to get the tax credit when they file their return. Meanwhile, they pay the premium all year.

      • August 20, 2013 at 11:52 am
        FFA says:
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        So, when do the get the subsidy???

        • August 20, 2013 at 12:01 pm
          Always Amazed says:
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          Depends on how much money you don’t make if you even qualify for one.

  • August 20, 2013 at 12:00 pm
    Always Amazed says:
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    Hi Agent, I’ve heard about waiting for the tax credit. However, what really chaps my mule is how the Muslims, Christian Scientists and the Amish our exempt from this monstrosity but the rest of us have to be on it. Most Christians don’t believe in abortions but that’s just to bad now isn’t it?

    Geese Libby, you were actually wrong for once? I’m shocked. So community organizers can be navigators and Union Organizers can as well. Seems to me that the Unions who are now opposed to this would want anything to do with it but that’s just me. Wasn’t our POTUS once a community organizer? The irony. And you can only apply face-to-face. I’ll get with my source in this and get back with you. Can anyone imagine the lines of people trying to apply for HC?

    This is a direct quote form my friend: The term ‘ navigator ‘ is specific to a Govt approved position , working in an exchange . Per , Humana , with who we are having a training session this Thursday ,we’ll be able to to sell both ObamaCare exchange plans as well as their ‘ off exchange ‘ plans . We are doing the Govt approved certification next month .

    My question still is why aren’t these navigators not having background checks and most of all criminal checks? Neither my friend nor anyone working at his office had to have this done which sure was a shocker to all of them. This is a lot of personal information being trusted to these people. I’m not comfortable with this and I don’t know of anyone in their right mind who is.

    • August 20, 2013 at 12:23 pm
      Agent says:
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      Always, do you want some poorly trained Navigator to have access to all your personal information, Social, income info etc. I can see the geek thieves licking their chops to steal identities when they hack into the system and IT security will be lacking since they haven’t even tested security yet.

      • August 20, 2013 at 12:40 pm
        Always Amazed says:
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        Exactly! Nope, I sure the hadies don’t.

        • August 20, 2013 at 2:40 pm
          FFA says:
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          Always – please define “hadies”.
          Are these people from Haiti?

          • August 20, 2013 at 2:55 pm
            Libby says:
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            Hades = Hell

          • August 20, 2013 at 3:28 pm
            FFA says:
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            Oh.

          • August 20, 2013 at 4:33 pm
            Libby says:
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            How’d you do with your NIU interns?

          • August 20, 2013 at 5:07 pm
            FFA says:
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            I met with them yesterday as a matter of fact. I was going to have them being navigators, but I guess not…

            They want their piece of the pie. One was asking about licensing. One has a marketing mind. The other has an Admin mind.

            Mr Marketing had some interesting thoughts including renting out the theater in town and doing a community presentation. So, I reached out to the owner and my GA. My GA is all over this. Also looking into getting into the X Mass parade and have my STAFF walk along side the float handing out info.

            It seems that no one in my local town is embracing this thing.

          • August 21, 2013 at 9:14 am
            Libby says:
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            All great ideas, FFA. I can’t wait to hear about your success!

        • August 21, 2013 at 7:54 am
          jw says:
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          Snark alert:

          AA – there’s no I in Hades.

  • August 20, 2013 at 1:06 pm
    Always Amazed says:
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    http://www.cnbc.com/id/100963714

    Here is an interesting link on CNBC. I think they are starting to wake up too.

    • August 20, 2013 at 3:41 pm
      Agent says:
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      Congratulations Always. Even Libby, Ron & Planet should agree that the scammers are going to be out in force and IT security will be an issue. Let the buyers beware. I would bet that a lot of low information voters will be scammed or have their identities stolen before this goes very far.

      • August 20, 2013 at 3:53 pm
        Libby says:
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        Hmmmmm. So I was right.

        “Thousands of legitimate navigators are being trained and certified to guide people through the process of applying for coverage through an exchange. These navigators are prohibited from recommending a particular plan. They will NEVER ASK FOR PERSONAL INFORMATION or for money in any form. The navigator program hasn’t started yet, so no one is making calls.”

        These navigators aren’t enrolling people. Just helping them to understand their choices. So much for all your boogeyman stories about stealing personal information because of no background check.

        And the others? Well, there are scammers everywhere trying to cash in on the weak. That’s not new with Obamacare.

        • August 20, 2013 at 4:15 pm
          FFA says:
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          “legitimate” as defined by OBama or by Webster?

        • August 20, 2013 at 4:16 pm
          Always Amazed says:
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          You are such a liberal you can spin any story to fit your agenda. The friend who is the agent who is being trained to be a navigator is even worried about whom these new navigators are going to be (no back ground checks) that are going to have access to all of our information and he’s working on the inside as an agentI You just don’t get it. You can spin this in any direction you want Libby if it makes you feel that you rise up above the rest of us. When this whole thing spins out of control, because we know it’s going to do just that – we won’t say “we told you so” too loudly.

        • August 20, 2013 at 4:21 pm
          Always Amazed says:
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          BTW they won’t have to ask because they will have access to all our private infomation. Libby, I have a friend on the inside of this monstrocity – who is being trained as a navigator. You can say all you want but I’ll believe him and not you because you don’t have all the information you just have what the media wants us to have and that’s not going to work for me.

          • August 20, 2013 at 4:28 pm
            Libby says:
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            I don’t feel I rise above anyone. I just don’t think it’s going to be the disaster you all say it is. Nothing is. Remember Y2K? And the country went through the same arguements about social security and medicare. For all their faults, I’m sure going to be happy they are there when I’m 65.

            So spin all the negative you want. I will continue to see the positive until proven wrong. And if that happens, I will be the one to say “You told me so.” Until then, I’m not buying into it. Just as plain as that.

          • August 20, 2013 at 4:32 pm
            Libby says:
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            And it’s not that I’m such a “liberal.” I believe strongly in healthcare for all Americans and am excited that we are moving forward to making it a reality. Would I have done it this way? No. We would have national healthcare if it were up to me. I think it’s a basic human right. I understand you all disagree. And that’s fine. It doesn’t make me a bad person or you a bad person. We just see things differently. That’s what’s so great about this world. We’re all different.

          • August 21, 2013 at 10:52 am
            Always Amazed says:
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            Geeze Libby, had me bringing out the tissues there on that last statement. Yes, I agree all should have health insurance but not at the expense of those who already have it. The same plan now that I have with Humana my out or pocket cost just went from $7500 to $12,500 a $5000 increae. Nice going, Obama. You, your family and the government employees get to keep the plans they have and we the general public are getting hammered with what we have to pay for our out of pocket costs. And some plans out there only pay for generic drugs – so if you doctor has a new drug and there is no generic brand for it well that’s just to bad for you now isn’t it? I guess we should all jump for joy for the 30+ who don’t have insurance that will be put on a subsidy plan. However our wonderful Commander and Thief, OOPS I meant to say Chief has really stuck it again to the middle class again.

          • August 21, 2013 at 11:28 am
            Libby says:
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            Didn’t mean to bring you to tears, Always.

            “Yes, I agree all should have health insurance but not at the expense of those who already have it.”

            At whose expense, then? Maybe if we cut spending in other areas this would have a benign effect on the taxpayer. But Congress can’t seem to get there sh*t together enough to make that happen.

            I do not think Obamacare was the best solution for this issue, but unfortunately it’s the only thing we have. So I am happy that SOMETHING is in place.

          • August 21, 2013 at 11:40 am
            Always Amazed says:
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            Did you see my post about my deductible for the same plan with Humana going up to $12,500 that’s a $5000 increase. Someone actually gave me the thumbs down on that post. Gee, I wonder who that could have been?

          • August 21, 2013 at 11:43 am
            Libby says:
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            Was I supposed to thumbs up a $5,000 increase???

  • August 20, 2013 at 4:41 pm
    Always Amazed says:
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    Then you should read this article”

    http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2013/08/20/administration-missing-dozens-obamacare-deadlines/

    It just keeps getting better and better…

    • August 20, 2013 at 4:50 pm
      Libby says:
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      I thought the deadlines unreasonable when they were set. I’m not surprised there are delays. Better to have delays and do it right than rush into it and have it all jacked up. But, again, I’m trying to see the positive. It’s alot easier that way. I don’t have to go through the day swinging at windmills I will never slay.

      • August 20, 2013 at 5:11 pm
        FFA says:
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        The only positives I can see is that there are massive amounts of people looking into buying this product and I have yet to spend one penny advertising it.

      • August 21, 2013 at 10:36 am
        Always Amazed says:
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        Of couse you do.

        • August 21, 2013 at 10:37 am
          Always Amazed says:
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          sorry that should have read. Of couRse you do…

        • August 21, 2013 at 11:30 am
          Libby says:
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          Of course I do what?

          • August 21, 2013 at 11:35 am
            Always Amazed says:
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            Thought the the dead lines were unreasonable.

          • August 21, 2013 at 12:02 pm
            Libby says:
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            Me, too!

          • August 21, 2013 at 12:11 pm
            Always Amazed says:
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            I wasn’t agreeing with you, Libby. You asked what the “of course you do” comment was for and if was for your statement on how you alwasy thought the deadlines were unreasonable.

          • August 21, 2013 at 1:23 pm
            Libby says:
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            It was supposed to be a joke. Republicans have NO sense of humor. And didn’t you think they were unreasonable? The Supreme Court ruling was only last year. How in the heck did they think they could get this up and running in 3 years?? You know as well as I do how fast (read slow) government works.

    • August 20, 2013 at 5:52 pm
      Agent says:
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      It seems to me that the bureaucrats who are supposed to implement this travesty have been spending too much time writing regulations and not enough at practical implementation. They are way behind on the exchanges, have not tested the IT security, just now trying to hire Navigators and it is supposed to kick off on 10-1. It is pretty much a joke and the whole deal should be kicked to the curb and start off fresh with a bill that makes sense and will cover the PreX’s who need coverage. They are not going to get the young to do this so all the sick will apply and then watch the rates.

      • August 21, 2013 at 9:16 am
        Libby says:
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        Naysayer.

      • August 21, 2013 at 10:56 am
        FFA says:
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        That’s just not going to happen Agent. Its here to stay for now.
        Once the Supreme Ct made their decision, that was it…

        Take Advantage of the Market opportunity. One way your going to be able to handle the Tax Implications that are gong to blast you – Joe Small Business man.

        • August 21, 2013 at 3:10 pm
          Agent says:
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          I heard an interesting comment the other day FFA. They said the Republicans should just forget defunding the bill and let it implode on its own as it is doing daily. Then, they can win the midterms, scrap the bill and install one that makes sense. The problem with that theory is – at what cost? What is this going to do to an already anemic economy?

          • August 21, 2013 at 3:54 pm
            FFA says:
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            There is more then one way to skin a cat.
            Instead of trying the same thing over and over expecting different results, they should go at it in a different direction.

            Maybe they should pull the $1.5 Bill aid to Egypt (per ap yesterday) and pay for this thing. Maybe that should be the cost – no more foreign aid!

        • August 22, 2013 at 3:09 pm
          Agent says:
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          FFA, I am going to let you fool with this mess and stick with P&C. We have some Individual’s and Groups that we will try our best to help, but I am not going to quote any new business on either. It is far too complicated, difficult and I don’t want the E&O exposure if I don’t advise the customer correctly. Good luck in trying to understand what to do. Some advisors give seminars on understanding the changes, but they always have a disclaimer that it might not be true tomorrow.

          • August 23, 2013 at 5:52 pm
            FFA says:
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            Agent, all my conversations start out with “no body knows anything for sure and if its true today, does not mean its true tomorrow…”.

            My GA’s all expect this to be a big seller. My producers want to produce. I have an obligation to my stock holders (Me & my wife)…. All right, I’ll stop there.

  • August 21, 2013 at 10:35 am
    Always Amazed says:
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    Coverage Calculator – Copay 70/7500
    See how this plan covers different events (for illustrative purposes only).
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    You pay with insurance**$12,500 YOU SAVE87,500
    Calculate Savings For All PlansDID YOU KNOW…
    that a large medical bill like this one is fairly common? In fact, about 60% of all bankruptcy filings in the US are related to medical expenses.***

    IL has a website now where we can start getting quotes from einsurance. This is the same plan as I had last year with a $7500 deductible. $2500 in coinsurance and $5000 deductible. Were you able to figure out what the dectible is now? $12,500! WTF??? Thanks Obama. How wonderful these new plans are!! Please note copied again from above – Calculate Savings For All Plans DID YOU KNOW…
    That a large medical bill like this one is fairly common? In fact, about 60% of all bankruptcy filings in the US are related to medical expenses.***

    And yes, if I had a deductible of $12,500 guess what? I’d be filing for bankruptcy! What a bunch of crap! I thought out of pocket was supposed to go down not up! My boss pays for my HC, thank goodness but I had gotten breast cancer this year I’d have to pay $12,500 before my insurance kicked in. What a bunch of BS!

    • August 21, 2013 at 11:38 am
      Libby says:
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      Yes. And just WHY is health care/insurance so damn high? Why aren’t we up in arms about that instead of wanting to deny it to others? There is no reason for this. I remember 20 years ago having an employer paid plan that only had to pay $10 per visit. No deductible. No coinsurance. I went for a colonoscopy two years ago and it was DENIED by my health insurance carrier. It cost me $1,100. And I was UNEMPLOYED at the time. Talk about a hardship. I had to take money out of my 401k to pay for it. That’s what we should be talking about. Not making sure our fellow citizens are healthy.

      • August 21, 2013 at 12:06 pm
        Always Amazed says:
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        You tell me? But I would be to wager that all the drug companies, GE, and all the other companies that make medical equipment have lined the pockets of our government officials from the very beginning. Obama, when running back in 2008, said he was against lobbyists and would not use them, and he’s one of the biggest offenders from Monsanto on down. His whole 2008 campaign was nothing but bold faced lie. There should be tort reform on our healthcare – not this monstrosity that give the underprivileged an almost free pass to healthcare and gouges the rest of us. I’m sorry you were denied all those years ago for a colonoscopy and had to pay for it out of pocket. I had a really great plan 30 yeas ago too and I’m sure a colonoscopy wasn’t covered under that one back then either. The good news is they are covered under preventive.

        • August 21, 2013 at 3:06 pm
          Agent says:
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          Always, we can boil this all down to a very simple statement. Obamacare has ruined Health Insurance for 85% of the citizens in order to re-distribute the wealth and cover the 15% of the PreX’s and poor in the country. It is no wonder that rates have skyrocketed ever since this legislation passed. The companies are no dummies. They see what they are going to pick up with all the sick people applying and the claims that will be rolling in and they say oops, we had better start raising rates on the existing insureds to pay for this disaster.

        • August 21, 2013 at 3:34 pm
          Libby says:
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          “…what young adults do when offered an opportunity to buy health insurance through their jobs. In such cases, 67 percent took the coverage.

          For those who declined, the chief reasons were that they were covered by a family member (54 percent) or couldn’t afford the premiums (22 percent). Only 5 percent turned down coverage because they felt they were unlikely to need much medical care.”

          “when Massachusetts instituted healthcare reform in 2007, requiring -like Obamacare – that everyone have insurance or pay a penalty. In the first year, the uninsured rate for 19-to-26-year olds fell from 21 percent to 8 percent.”

          These premiums will offset the pre-Xers.

          http://www.dailypress.com/news/politics/sns-rt-us-usa-healthcare-youth-20130820,0,4063373.story

      • August 21, 2013 at 12:29 pm
        FFA says:
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        Libby Asks “WHY is health care/insurance so damn high?”
        They did not address the underlying issues.

    • August 21, 2013 at 12:27 pm
      FFA says:
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      Truth be told…
      Massive increases headed all our way.

      I did my basic training last night. I currently have a $5K ded with 100% Co Ins. No option for 100% Co Ins…

      I’ll be doing the Humana stuff be week end too. As it sits right now, I like this even less then when it all started…

      • August 21, 2013 at 1:29 pm
        Libby says:
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        What training is this? I assume it’s for the exchange plans. You are not obligated to get coverage through the exchange, you know. Has your carrier told you your plan will not be available next year? For someone that is going to focus so many resources on this, you are not very well informed.

        • August 21, 2013 at 2:01 pm
          FFA says:
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          The training came off one of the links I found on this Forum. Yes, it is for the Exchange Plans. My carrier has told me to brace for a 30% spike in rates. They will not be an exchange carrier.

          I am working on getting informed. Every staff member with a license is. I have a marketing mind. My position to make the phones ring, jam up the Web Site. I provide my producers with prospects.

          • August 21, 2013 at 2:17 pm
            Libby says:
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            I think that was the link I posted. What was the difference in price for the exchange plan?

          • August 21, 2013 at 3:47 pm
            FFA says:
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            May have been you. You seems to have all the links for this stuff. Other links have been very useful on piecing the Marketing end of this together. The negative Pub about security issues is prompting a review of everyone ID Theft coverage. I hope more govt officials come out with the Chicken little stuff…

            There was no pricing on it.

  • August 21, 2013 at 11:36 am
    Always Amazed says:
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    http://www.bizjournals.com/atlanta/morning_call/2013/08/ups-to-drop-15000-spouses-from.html

    UPS is dropping coverage for spouses if they work for a company that provides insurance. Wow.

    • August 21, 2013 at 11:40 am
      Libby says:
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      Unfortunately this is a common practice. At least where I live. I never heard of it before a couple of years ago. Used to be you could choose the best plan and go with it. Not anymore…

      • August 21, 2013 at 2:19 pm
        FFA says:
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        A by product of Obama Care. Breaking that promise that you can keep what you have.

        • August 21, 2013 at 2:35 pm
          Libby says:
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          No. It’s a way to control cost and has been going on way before Obama.

          • August 21, 2013 at 3:43 pm
            FFA says:
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            True Libby, but frequency of that has increased substantially.

        • August 22, 2013 at 1:32 pm
          jw says:
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          The real by product is the employer gets to BLAME the change on Obamacare. Remember, plans available in 2010 (I think) were grandfathered in and UPS has been around more than 3 years. So any changes are strictly for the benefit of the employer. I did find an article on The Atlantic Wire (a very liberal leaning online magazine) about the UPS change.

          Oh, that same article mentioned the union issue, too. Something to do with union benefit plans not being eligible for subsidies which unions apparently wanted so they could reduce their costs. I think.

          I really don’t want to know all this about the health insurance changes. It seems to be the only topic that gets discussed (“discussed” being a relative term) on IJ. I’d rather have a root canal.

          • August 23, 2013 at 5:15 pm
            Agent says:
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            jw, I don’t think you would have Richard Trumka and Jimmy Hoffa, Jr out there jumping up and down unless their ox was getting gored, do you? They are seeing their Cadillac plans getting decimated by rate increases and they don’t like it a little bit. It is hard for them to keep on raising those dues in a time when work is scarce. They fear the membership will drop out and go to the exchange. Why belong to a union if the benefits are out of control?

    • August 21, 2013 at 3:00 pm
      Agent says:
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      Yes, Always. I just saw the same thing. I thought UPS was one of those companies that got a waiver like a lot of other big outfits and unions did. They say that spouses are not eligible for UPS coverage if they are covered under another plan. They figure to save about $60 million a year. A lot of people have double dipped for a long time having coverage in two places. Why should an employer cover a spouse that has coverage elsewhere? It makes perfect business sense to me.

      • August 22, 2013 at 1:38 pm
        jw says:
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        While it may make business sense, most of the people I work with are on their spouses plan because it’s cheaper and in many cases the coverage is better. Our employer funds an FSA worth the $ amount they would have paid for health insurance. That covers a large chunk of OOP expenses.

  • August 21, 2013 at 4:54 pm
    FFA says:
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    So Agent, did you catch the Bears game last Thursday???
    This kid they drafted – Bostic the line backer – looks as though he is going to make urlacher a distant memory real quick.
    He laid a hit on a wide receiver that looked clean and no flags were thrown. But, the NFL fined him today not offering an explanation as to why as of yet.

    Sarge, your QB is in trouble 2x a year.

    • August 21, 2013 at 5:32 pm
      Agent says:
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      FFA, I only saw a few plays. Forte looked pretty good to me. I am afraid the NFL is wussifying the game and they will punish aggressive play. Maybe they should just play flag football instead of blocking or tackling. I am afraid Romo is in trouble for all 16 games since the offensive line is already injured and they are signing guys off the couch again. Dallas does have some good players here and there, but not a good team overall. Jerry Jones should have fired himself as General Manager a long time ago. He has screwed up his salary cap and has little maneuvering room to sign anyone else of value.

      • August 21, 2013 at 5:36 pm
        Agent says:
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        FFA, I saw an interesting utube video last week on the great Art Donovan, a former All Pro lineman with the old Baltimore Colts. He was very funny and said that they didn’t know what in the grasp meant back in his day. They would sometimes hit the quarterback in the mouth several seconds after the pass was made. You remember Dick Butkus and how tough he was. He was from the old school as well and struck fear in every quarterback, running back and wide receiver. They knew they were going to get it from him.

        • August 21, 2013 at 6:28 pm
          FFA says:
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          Forte is one of the best in the biz. He should be drafted by end of rd 2. I hold third pick this year. Think AP will fall that far???

          I have no clue on how the Bears keep getting these line backers that turn out so good. Even the lesser know LBs were pretty darn good – the likes of Wilbur Marshal, Lance Briggs aint no slouch, Ron Rivera ect… Now this Bostic looks like the real deal. Could be the best first round pick of the bears since Cutler.

          • August 22, 2013 at 10:16 am
            Agent says:
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            Mike Singletary was no slouch either. I agree that the Bears have a long history of getting outstanding linebackers. For many years, they may not have won championships, but opposing teams knew they were going to get a physical beating when playing the Bears. If their offense is just above average, they should be right in there. I really like Lovie Smith as a coach. He is from a small town in Texas and he has risen to the upper echelons of coaching.

          • August 22, 2013 at 11:48 am
            FFA says:
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            Singletary may be the best of the bunch. Had a way of getting his team mates to rise above their level. Nick Roach – signed with Oakland this off season – was another one. I think they plucked him off Green Bays practice squad.

            As far as the offense, now that Webb is not a first teamer any more, we should see jay on the ground less. They signed the guy that protected Brees. So Jay looks to be in the best position he has been since he came here.

            Lovie out of work this year makes no sense to me at all. I am still baffled they cut him lose after offering him a 5 yr extension mid way through last season.

  • August 22, 2013 at 10:04 am
    FFA says:
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    So, this just in from my Doc – He wants to maintain the level of personal service with his patients. With the “new” health care system in place, he can not do that as he would have to see more patients per day to break even due to the decline in what he can charge. So, if I want to continue to see him, I have to pay $1600 @ year x 2 (for my wife too) for membership to his practice.

    Of course, he had someone in marketing put the letter together so it sounded all nice and rosey.

    So, to keep my doctor, an additional $3600 a year. This is an additional $300 @ Month. This don’t include the 30% jump my carrier is telling me that is coming.

    This (Obama Care) is the biggest National Screw Job on the American People in my life time!

    • August 22, 2013 at 10:19 am
      Agent says:
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      So does the extra charges your doctor makes to you cover your office visits, tests etc? Perhaps if you just have routine exams/physical, you wouldn’t even have to file on insurance. It is a shame you are getting the rate increases on top of this. Obama did say if you liked your doctor & insurance, you could keep them. He didn’t say what the extra cost would be, however.

      • August 22, 2013 at 11:05 am
        FFA says:
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        No. It does not. Its business as usual in that regards.
        In the past, you made a statement to the effect – Law of Unintended Consequences – or something like that.
        As far as what OBama said – that’s an ILL politician at his best. Make the screw job sound great!

        I am going to sit through doc presentation on this and get further details. But, seems obvious there is a new doc on the horizon or there is a sharp increase in expense coming my way if I want to keep the same Doc I have been seeing for over 25 years.

        Also gonna chat with my CPA and see if this “fee” would be tax deductible.

        At the end of the day, just another screw job by OBAma… He probably will send the $1.5 Bill to Egypt like the AP reported the other day.

        I am guessing that, due to the silence of people in this forum that spoke out in the defense of OBAma & OBama Care have your own version of how this jack ass is screwing you too. If not yet, its coming, I am sure. ILL politics in DC….

        • August 22, 2013 at 12:41 pm
          Agent says:
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          FFA, you know how Libby likes to tout the National Health Service in Britain that it is so wonderful despite the reports we have seen. I just saw a new article published by Townhall with author Cal Thomas who is a respected journalist. His article was titled – Final Warnings about Obamacare. His research is impeccable. According to the article, Sir Bruce Keogh, medical director of NHS issued a report that 14 major hospitals in Britain had substandard care contributing to the needless deaths of 13,000 people since 2005. One single hospital in Staffordshire recorded 1,300 “excess” deaths. The lack of adequate nursing staffs, cuts to elder care and a rise in immigrant populations have contributed to the problem. Waiting times for many surgeries are notoriously long, but have recently gotten longer. The Huffington Post UK reported that 3 million people were waiting for treatment. The goal was to see a patient in 18 weeks, but is much longer now. Some wait for months until a surgeon is available and many die while waiting. Is this the kind of rationed care we want in this country? We will get it with Obamacare. It is only a matter of time.

          • August 22, 2013 at 3:16 pm
            Libby says:
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            Agent – where is his article did you get the idea his research was impeccable? Did you even read the NHS report? I did and it was nowhere near the negative picture you portray. That’s what happens when you get all your news from Townhall and FoxNews. It’s slanted. Why don’t you do your own research for a change? Good grief!

            http://www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/bruce-keogh-review/Documents/outcomes/keogh-review-final-report.pdf

          • August 23, 2013 at 8:32 am
            Libby says:
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            Agent – Every system has problems and kudos to them for having a study done to identify and correct them. That does not make it a bad system. Maybe we should do that here. You just love to throw the baby out with the bathwater. Have you ever heard of shades of gray??? Compromise? Two sides to every story? Man, I’m glad I’m not your wife or employee. It’s your way or the highway, isn’t it?

          • August 23, 2013 at 10:20 am
            FFA says:
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            Well agent, if there was a system out there that worked, I would too.
            Change for the sake of change never seems to be a good idea. General Population grabbing onto a catch phrase …
            They never did address the underlying problems. Blame Doc & Ins Carriers for making too much money – you know – Living the American dream.
            All because some ass hole politician from Illinois wants his ego inflated.

            Another Muni in NJ (Per Ins Journal yesterday) cut workers hours as a direct result of this BS. More American Workers hurt by this… Employees at UPS, Sarges’ Staff, some small town in Iowa, a college in PA, Home Depot, Sears. Cant imagine how many other are out there that will never make the news, but we all know there are more… Cant fix an Ego.

            Now we wait and see – Will this A Hole send my and your tax dollars 9$1.5B) along with two jet fighters to Egypt. Recently he stated that Chemical weapons was a “Red Line” in regards to Syria. Guess that was just Obama flapping his gums again.

          • August 23, 2013 at 10:23 am
            Agent says:
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            Leave it to you Libby to champion the worst Socialized medical system on earth. It was a bad idea at the start and has gone steadily downhill ever since. You are very lucky not to live in Britain. Suppose you were diagnosed with a very serious illness there and needed surgery and they told you, sorry Libby we have no surgeon available until December. You will just have to wait in line with everyone else.

        • August 22, 2013 at 1:46 pm
          jw says:
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          I really don’t think this is strictly due to obamacare. Like I say below, this concept has been around for several years. Doctors have been complaining about their rate of reimbursement for years (maybe a decade). Health insurers have been limiting payments to doctors more each year. I haven’t worked in health care in over 9 years, and that was before Obama was elected (LONG before Obamacare), and we had these same arguements then. Providers are doing everything they can to up their income. Can you blame them? As insurers tighten the purse strings, providers are at the very least not getting a raise. More often than not, they’re getting a pay cut.

          • August 22, 2013 at 2:57 pm
            Agent says:
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            jw, the most common thing that happened several years ago was for doctors to sign up in a Network with the carriers. Everything was set up with the doctor agreeing to accept contract re-imbursement for treatments, procedures he gave to patients. The same is true for hospitals. They can bill whatever they want, but the carrier will pay only what the contract was negotiated for. Doctors and hospitals at least knew what to expect for re-imbursements. Under Obamacare, they do not know except to expect lower re-imbursement than they have been getting. This is what Obamacare is doing to the medical profession.

          • August 22, 2013 at 2:59 pm
            FFA says:
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            Timing is very coincidental, don’t you think?

            just another turning the screws on the general population by another piece of crap politician.

          • August 22, 2013 at 5:46 pm
            Agent says:
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            Libby, I read it too. It doesn’t change a thing about the NHS and the lack of or quality of care they provide. They do seem to know they have a problem. It has been going on a long time. They aren’t going to dig out of this hole for a long time. There is no money in Britain to improve it with all the staffing shortages they have. Margaret Thatcher said it best. The problem with Socialism is that pretty soon, you run out of other peoples money.

          • August 23, 2013 at 7:43 am
            jw says:
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            Agent, don’t patronize me. I’ve been in healthcare before. I did both billing and registration. I know what insurers do and what providers do.

          • August 23, 2013 at 1:47 pm
            Agent says:
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            FFA, the low information voters out there voted for a jingle – Hope & Change and didn’t look further at all the redistribution of wealth schemes. Anybody paying attention knew we were in for it when he said – We live in the greatest country in the world. Join me as we seek to fundamentally change it. One Progressive scheme after another is the result. When the economy was on fire in 09, what does he do but push Healthcare for two years. When a country has a weak economy, it doesn’t need a trillion dollar spending spree for Stimulus or Healthcare. This economy would be strong by now had the government given the types of incentives needed to hire like tax cuts. Instead, we get more calls for tax hikes. Boy, that sure recovered the economy, didn’t it? How do we like that 1% growth? How do we like all those temp and part time jobs being created instead of full time? Obamacare is the biggest job killer the nation has ever seen. Employers are reacting to it by not hiring and laying off or reducing hours.

    • August 22, 2013 at 11:23 am
      Always Amazed says:
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      Is this legal? You now how to become a member of his practice? Sounds like a shake down.

      • August 22, 2013 at 11:40 am
        FFA says:
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        He is a good Doc. He is in demand. I am sure he had his legal team do their due diligence. Mal Practice skyrocketing. What he can charge being limited.

        More for less just don’t work. Your an economist, you know that.

        At least he is not cutting payroll – jamming up the unemployment line.

        I’ll probably pay it for my wife. Me, I’ll be shopping for a new doctor.

        • August 22, 2013 at 12:46 pm
          Agent says:
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          Well, this is just an indication of doctors rebelling against this travesty of a law. They are supposed to work twice as hard for less reimbursement for treatment. No wonder so many doctors are retiring from practice. I have a partner whose son is in Medical School right now. I wonder what he will face when he begins to practice. The lines of patients lining up will be long with fewer doctors seeing more patients.

          • August 22, 2013 at 1:49 pm
            jw says:
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            This has been around longer than Obamacare, Agent.

      • August 22, 2013 at 12:33 pm
        FFA says:
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        I’ll be sitting in his presentation next week. Will have more info, but $1600 per person is the number.

    • August 22, 2013 at 12:49 pm
      Agent says:
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      Send some of your cut offensive lineman Dallas way. We don’t have many healthy ones and signing guys off their couch does not give me a warm fuzzy feeling for offensive production.

      • August 22, 2013 at 2:56 pm
        FFA says:
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        I would be a better option the Webb…

        • August 26, 2013 at 2:00 pm
          FFA says:
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          This Webb O Line Man had his pay cut in half last week. Apparently it went something like this “Take a 50% Pay cut or take a 100% Pay cut”.

          He should have been released in the first cut down. With Cutler standing on his feet, The Bears look hard to beat. D is up to speed. The whole running back crew was spot on. The receivers dropped 5 balls – three by Marshal… Alshon is making a strong case for 1st team…

          • September 4, 2013 at 5:42 pm
            Agent says:
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            I don’t know who the Bears have for the first game of the season, but Dallas has to face the Giants and Manning. He usually picks Dallas apart so it could get ugly. I don’t have much faith that Dallas can keep Romo upright with that patchwork offensive line they have. He will spend a lot of time on his back more than likely. Dallas has a goofy General Manager named Jerry Jones and cannot put a team on the field since his salary cap is out of whack and cannot sign anyone good. Could be that the Cap is off due to re-signing Romo to a record breaking deal. $55 million guaranteed if he only plays one down this year.

    • August 22, 2013 at 1:42 pm
      jw says:
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      One of the ladies where I work had a doctor exploring this option 4 years ago. When he couldn’t get enough takers (imagine that!), he scrapped the plan and is participating in most insurance plans still.

    • August 26, 2013 at 1:56 pm
      FFA says:
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      I got a follow up letter from my doc over the week end. He wants to trim his practice down for over 4000 to 600.

      Would imply he is walking away from $5.4M in revenues coming form Insurance Companies and private pays hoping to make it up on the membership fees…..

      More confusing by the day!



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