12 Dec 2011

Braley Introduces Shawn Johnson Fitness for Life Act

By Jeff Giertz

Iowa Congressman teams up with Olympic gold medalist to combat childhood obesity

 

Washington, DC - Rep. Bruce Braley (IA-01) today teamed up with gymnast, Olympic champion and West Des Moines resident Shawn Johnson to introduce the Shawn Johnson Fitness for Life Act, a bill that will combat childhood obesity by promoting the use of innovative technology to improve physical education programs in schools.

"Shawn Johnson has inspired countless young Iowans with her Olympic success," Braley said.  "She's inspired me with her work as an advocate for improved physical fitness.  That's why naming this bill the Shawn Johnson Fitness for Life Act is such a fitting tribute.

 

Braley continued, "The Shawn Johnson Fitness for Life Act will improve physical education in schools by incorporating new technology in the curriculum, allowing instructors to better tailor instruction to individual students through the use of equipment like heart monitors.  Expanding technology use in PE class will make fitness more engaging for kids and more effective, teaching students how to stay active and combating childhood obesity.  And as Shawn knows, staying healthy starts with learning healthy habits."

Shawn Johnson said, "To me, this is about finding new opportunities to get young people excited about fitness and exercise.  Kids of all ages use technology in their lives every day, from video games to iPods to cellphones.  Using technology in PE class is the obvious next step, an opportunity to make exercise more fun for young people.  And if we can do that, I think kids and teenagers will be more likely to go to the gym and make it a habit."

Shawn Johnson, who won one gold and three silver medals in gymnastics at the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics, has long been an advocate for exercise and physical fitness.  In March, Shawn visited Capitol Hill where she met with Congressional leaders in support of the Paralympics.  It was during this visit that Braley and Shawn learned of their mutual interest in improving physical education programs in schools.

The Shawn Johnson Fitness for Life Act would expand to more local schools a physical education program pioneered by the University of Northern Iowa and the Grundy Center (Iowa) School District.  Since 2004, UNI and Grundy Center Schools have partnered together to improve PE classes through the use of technology.

UNI offers a masters degree program in physical education that emphasizes the use of technology in teaching.  Graduate students in this program work as full time PE instructors in Grundy Center, where they learn to incorporate technology like heart monitors, computerized fitness assessment programs, and pocket PCs into their curriculum.  The technology allows instructors to better tailor PE activities to individual students' ability level and teaches students to track their own progress.  UNI researchers also use data from the program to study the effectiveness of PE courses.

The Shawn Johnson Fitness for Life Act would seek to expand this successful model by creating a grant program to fund 10 new masters' degree programs that emphasize the use of technology in teaching.  Universities receiving grants would partner with a local school district to implement the masters' program.  Funds could also be used to purchase equipment and technology to enhance physical activity and fitness levels.

UNI and Grundy Center's partnership has received national attention.  In 2009, US Education Secretary Arne Duncan visited the school to learn more about the program.

According to the Iowa Department of Health, the obesity rate of Iowa children in grades 9 - 12 is 11.3 percent.  Many obese and overweight children develop illnesses like heart disease or Type 2 diabetes, which require long-term medical care.

The Shawn Johnson Fitness for Life Act is similar to a bill Braley first introduced in 2010.

More information about the bill, including the bill text, can be found at the following link: http://go.usa.gov/5vL

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12 Dec 2011

Diagnoses of Celiac Disease on the Rise

By Jake Glimco

Celiac Disease Diagnoses Increasing

Celiac Disease now the #1 most frequently searched GI term on the internet

QUAD-CITIES / November 29, 2011 -- Celiac disease, an autoimmune disease of the small intestine previously thought to be rare, is increasing in frequency in the Quad-Cities. Gastroenterology practices are seeing an increase in patients diagnosed with Celiac disease and the term 'Celiac' has now become the single most searched-for term in gastroenterology on the internet today.  As many as two million Americans may have Celiac disease. Researchers are not certain what factors are contributing to the increased incidence, but recent Mayo Clinic research of blood samples preserved from the 1950's indicates the prevalence of the blood markers suggesting Celiac disease has increased four-fold in the last 50-60 years

What is Celiac disease? The inside surface of most people's small intestines resembles a dense pile carpet with the fibers, or villi, which play a vital role in the digestion of food.  But in patients with Celiac disease, their bodies attack the villi in the small intestine, sometimes to the point where the lining becomes smooth.  Without healthy villi, nutrients pass through the small intestine without being absorbed.   Patients suffering from Celiac disease do not absorb vital nutrients and can become malnourished in spite of eating the right foods in the right amounts.  These patients can become predisposed to premature bone loss, infertility, miscarriage and occasionally lymphoma and intestinal cancer, among other problems.  One-third of the population is estimated to carry a genetic marker for gluten intolerance, but only one-in-100 has the sensitivity to gluten, setting off the destruction of the intestinal villi.  

Celiac disease and infertility - Researchers who have studied women with infertility issues have found they test positive for Celiac disease-related antibodies at a rate ten times higher than the normal population.   These women do not always exhibit an iron, B-12 or folate deficiency.  This suggests there may be another mechanism besides nutritional deficiencies caused by intestinal damage impairing their ability to conceive.   Additionally, women with un-treated Celiac disease were found to enter menopause four to five years earlier than those who observed a strict gluten-free diet.

Why the increase? Researchers are not sure, but investigators are exploring what role, if any, diet and environment may play in the increase of gluten intolerance and Celiac disease.  Doctors say that triggers such as infection, pregnancy, severe emotional stress, surgery or physical injury can set off Celiac disease in those with a genetic predisposition.

Who is at risk? Caucasians of Western European descent who have a relative with Celiac disease appear to have the highest incidence of the disease.  Because Celiac disease is controlled by the same gene carrying diabetes, those with diabetes are at an increased risk. Those with other autoimmune diseases, such as thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis and liver disease, may also be at an increased risk.

How can I tell if I have Celiac disease? Symptoms vary and can include :


  • Gas, recurring abdominal bloating and pain
  • Chronic diarrhea or constipation
  • Pale, foul-smelling or fatty stool
  • Fatigue
  • Unexplained anemia
  • Tingling or numbness in the legs due to nerve damage
  • Bone or joint pain
  • Muscle cramps
  • Behavioral changes (irritability in children)
  • Delayed growth in children or failure to thrive in infants
  • Pale sores inside the mouth
  • Itchy skin rash, especially around the elbows.

It is believed Celiac disease often goes un-diagnosed because these symptoms are attributed to other problems; and while most health care providers know about the disease, it is not always considered as a potential diagnosis when patients have symptoms.

Diagnosing Celiac disease: Because the symptoms of Celiac disease can mimic other diseases, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Crohn's disease, it is often recommended that patients suspected of having this affliction undergo an upper endoscopy (EGD) to obtain a sample of the tissue (biopsy) from the small intestine. An upper endoscopy involves passing a long, thin, flexible tube with a tiny video camera, or endoscope, through the mouth and stomach and into the small intestine.  Tiny instruments are then passed through the tube to obtain a tissue sample for the biopsy.  Blood tests to check for high levels of antibodies are available, but the results are less reliable than a biopsy.  To insure the accuracy of any tests for Celiac disease, it is important patients do not prematurely eliminate gluten-containing foods from their diet.

The GOOD news:  The vast majority of cases of Celiac disease can be effectively treated.  With adherence to a gluten-free diet, intestinal damage can be completely reversed in two years.  People with Celiac disease must remain on a gluten-free diet for life, but drugs or surgery are usually not required.  While it is true a gluten-free diet eliminates wheat-based goodies like cake, cookies and beer, there has been an explosion of non-gluten options which makes sustaining a gluten-free diet much easier. Gluten-free substitutions, once only available at health food stores and on the internet, are now available in most supermarkets and even some local restaurants.  However, even traces of gluten on cooking utensils or manufacturing equipment can be enough to trigger a reaction.

About Gastroenterology Consultants

Gastroenterology Consultants is an accomplished group of board-certified gastroenterologists and supporting physicians specializing in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of gastrointestinal diseases. Our state-of-the-art facility with an adjacent AAAHC accredited endoscopy center is located in Moline, IL, and proudly services the Quad-Cities and surrounding communities.

At Gastroenterology Consultants, we provide a wide range of endoscopic services. Apart from routine endoscopic services, our facility offers motility studies, 24-hr pH (Bravo), Lap, therapeutic ERCP's performed in hospital setting, endoscopic ultrasound with fine needle aspiration, Celiac blocks, video capsule, endoscopic anti-reflux procedures, ultrasound guided liver biopsies and pathology.  Most recently, GI Consultants became the first GI practice in the Quad-Cities area to offer the BARRX HALO Radio Frequency Ablation system, a minimally-invasive treatment for pre-cancerous Barrett's esophagus.

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12 Dec 2011

Ron Paul to Hold Two College Campus Youth Rallies in Iowa

By Gary Howard
'Countdown to the Caucus' events hosted by 'Youth for Ron Paul' aim to solidify youth support
LAKE JACKSON, Texas - 2012 Republican Presidential candidate Ron Paul will address college students and Iowans at two "Youth for Ron Paul" campus rallies to energize young supporters and reach out to new and undecided voters in the run-up to the January 3, 2012, Iowa Caucuses.

The first event, which is free and open to supporters of all ages, will be held on Thursday, December 8th in the Iowa State University (ISU) Memorial Union Great Hall, located at 2229 Lincoln Way in Ames.  Doors will open to the public at 6:30 p.m.  To enter 30 minutes early and secure a spot near the front of the room, RSVP for the ISU event featuring Dr. Paul at http://ronpaulatisu.eventbrite.com/.

The second event, which also is free and open to supporters of all ages, will be held on Friday, December 9th at the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) in the Commons - Slife Ballroom, located at 1224 West 23rd Street in Cedar Falls.  Doors will open to the public at 6:30 p.m.  To enter 30 minutes early and secure a spot near the front of the room, RSVP for the UNI event featuring Dr. Paul at http://ronpaulatuni.eventbrite.com/.

Youth for Ron Paul (YFP), an initiative of the Ron Paul 2012 Presidential Campaign, launched on Wednesday, September 7th and since its inception more than 15,300 people signed up to get involved, forming 307 chapters in 46 states.

"The enthusiastic support for Ron Paul continues to grow, especially among college students.  Young people understand he is the only presidential candidate who will fix our economy, so they're eager not only to vote for him, but also to volunteer for his campaign," said Edward King, National Youth Director for the Ron Paul 2012 Presidential Campaign.

"Young people from across the country are inspired by Dr. Paul's message of a strong national defense, prosperity, and individual liberty.  No other campaign can claim or match the dedication of our youth support," said Ani DeGroot, Midwest Regional Director for Youth for Ron Paul.

To learn more and sign up for Youth for Ron Paul, please visit: www.YouthForPaul.com and "like" the Facebook page found at: www.Facebook.com/YouthForPaul.

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12 Dec 2011

IOWA FARM BUREAU MEMBERS CAN PURCHASE EXCLUSIVE "ANF" GEAR

By Rick Martin

Portion of proceeds donated to Iowa food banks

WEST DES MOINES, IOWA - Dec. 7, 2011 - The exclusive ANF (America Needs Farmers)/Farm Strong gear has been in demand for months and now Farm Bureau members can purchase newly-offered apparel offered at a discounted price, just in time for the holidays.  The special offering of ANF/Farm Strong gear is announced in conjunction with Iowa Farm Bureau Week, Dec. 4-11.

A portion of the sales' proceeds will be directed to Iowa food banks.

Items available for purchase include short- and long-sleeve t-shirts for adults and children, sweatshirts, baseball hats and stocking caps.  Members can order the merchandise by logging on to the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation's website's (www.iowafarmbureau.com) "Members Only" section and clicking on the "ANF Merchandise" rotating window.

The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation and the University of Iowa Athletics Department formed a five-year partnership this summer to raise awareness of the ANF logo's history and help consumers understand the immense challenges and opportunities today's farmers face.  "America Needs Farmers" was created by former UI football coach Hayden Fry during the Farm Crisis of the 1980s and embraced today by the Hawkeyes' current head coach, Kirk Ferentz. For more information about ANF, visit http://www.americaneedsfarmers.org.

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About Iowa Farm Bureau

The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation is a grassroots, statewide organization dedicated to enhancing the People, Progress and Pride of Iowa.  More than 153,000 families in Iowa are Farm Bureau members, working together to achieve farm and rural prosperity.  For more information about Farm Bureau and agriculture, visit the online media center at www.iowafarmbureau.com.

12 Dec 2011

Reauthorizing the EB-5 Regional Center Program

By Nicholas Depew

Prepared Statement of Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa

Ranking Member, Senate Committee on the Judiciary

"Reauthorizing the EB-5 Regional Center Program: Promoting Job Creation

and Economic Development in American Communities"

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Today, this committee will focus on the EB-5 Regional Center program.  This program, now 21 years old, was created with the intention to benefit American communities through investment and job creation.  Certainly, at a time of economic uncertainty, high national unemployment, and stagnate growth, we must consider all the tools at our disposal to increase economic activity.  While I have supported the EB-5 Regional Center program in the past, I do hope to hear how this program can better serve our nation's needs in the future.  Today's hearing is a way for us to conduct our constitutional duty of oversight.  It's important for us to review the EB-5 program, determine if it's truly creating jobs, and hear whether the program is increasing economic activity in areas that need it most.

The EB-5 Regional Center program is set to expire on September 31, 2012.  I hope to work with the Chairman on re-authorizing a reformed and more cost efficient program, in addition to several other immigration programs that will expire at the same time.  We need to enact reforms that will make the EB-5 Regional Center program worth keeping around.

Some may argue that the EB-5 Regional Center program is doing very little to stimulate the economy.  I appreciate the administration's recent attempt to focus energy and attention on reforming the program and increase participation in regional centers.  The changes they institute may help, but at the end of the day, one fact remains:  the program is simply a way for wealthy investors to buy a greencard - not only for themselves, but for their families.  No skills or management experience is needed.  One only needs to write a check to gain entry into the United States.  While taking a financial risk in projects or businesses in the United States is admirable, evidence suggests that it's not doing enough to spur real job creation.

Since Congress capped the number of employment based immigrants that are allowed entry into the U.S. each year, it's important that we utilize those visas to the best extent possible.  We must have an immigration system that is based on merit.  We should be taking the best and brightest.  We can afford to be choosey, so we must elect to provide immigrant visas to those with tremendous skills that will benefit our country in the long term.

So, in that vein, we must figure out where the EB-5 Regional Center program fits into the equation.  Is the EB-5 program attracting the individuals we need, or are we simply selling visas to the highest bidders?

I want to take a moment to express serious concern about reports that the EB-5 Regional Center program is creating jobs for people in this country illegally.  The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) reviewed the application for one investor in a South Dakota regional center.  The AAO said that the agency was correct in denying his request for greencard status because the employees were in the country illegally.  If we're going to allow wealthy foreign nationals to enter the U.S. under the guise of creating jobs, I'd sure hope that U.S. citizens are the benefactors.  I'd like to hear today about how the centers create jobs, how they report this information to the federal government, and whether USCIS is doing substantial auditing of centers to verify the information received from the regional centers.

We must also do a better job of rooting out abuse by EB-5 promoters abroad.  Reuters recently reported on how cash-hungry American businesses are working abroad to promote the EB-5 regional center program.  Many of these EB-5 promoters are mischaracterizing the program, luring investors here and robbing them of the American dream.  In fact, China has reportedly put restrictions on these promoters.  When asked by Reuters, both the USCIS and the Securities and Exchange Commission were unaware of any marketing abuses.  Maybe it's time these agencies wake up and figure out what's truly going on.

I'd like to work with Chairman Leahy on ways to strengthen oversight over the program.  I think he may have some good ideas for doing that, including requiring more reporting by the centers and ending centers that aren't producing as they promised.  In addition to restoring program integrity, I think it's important to consider whether the dollar amounts should be raised.  They have remained at $500,000 and $1 million since the early 1990s.  Finally, we must close any loophole that allows a foreign investor to bring capital to the table, receive a greencard, and then withdraw his financial support and walk away from the regional center.

I realize we could have testimony from every single regional center in the program citing the benefits that foreign investments have provided their community.  I appreciate Mr. Stenger appearing before us again today and sharing with us how the program has benefited Northern Vermont.

Conversely, I look forward to hearing from Mr. North, a fellow from the Center for Immigration Studies.  Mr. North will provide a different perspective that exposes some of the problems with the program, and highlight how some bad actors have tarnished the program's reputation.  I also look forward to hearing from Mr. Devine, who has had the experience of overseeing the operation of the program when he worked as Chief Counsel and Acting Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service.

Thank you for holding this hearing, Mr. Chairman.  I look forward to listening to our witnesses.

 

-30-
12 Dec 2011

Evangelical Leader Advises Iowan Christians on Caucus Vote

By Rev. Rob Schenck
    To Evangelicals in Iowa:

    These days, because I'm an Evangelical minister, a missionary to Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, and chairman of the Committee on Church and Society for the Evangelical Church Alliance, the question I'm asked most is, "How do evangelicals pick the right candidate this time around?" The implication is whether Evangelicals are bound to pick only an evangelical candidate, even if that person can't win in the general election. My answer is simple: We should pick our candidates for president in the same way we pick our doctors -- on their skills, experience, reputation, and approach to our problems. When it comes to the lineup in Iowa, Evangelicals should ask particular questions about the person seeking their vote:

    Does this person have the skills to address the problems our country is currently facing and will face when my children and grandchildren are my age?

    Does this person have a proven track record in solving these problems--and in what ways will this person solve them? Because our most urgent problems are economic, we must ask if this person has the extensive private sector experience necessary, as well as the meaningful executive level public sector experience, to get the job done.

    What is this person's professional reputation? More importantly, what is this person's personal reputation? Is this person known as a good, morally upright individual who has demonstrated--over a credible time--a commitment to the highest values of conduct and fidelity? As we've already seen, under the bright lights of day-in, day-out, 24-hour media scrutiny, personal issues can become an insurmountable obstacle to victory.

    What kind of leader is this person? Is this person open to change for the better? Can this person effectively lead others toward better solutions? A willingness to change is good when it's change for the best. All of us hope and pray our elected officials will seek wisdom for a better direction in which to lead our country, for, "In the multitude of counselors there is safety." (Proverbs 11:14)

    When it comes to picking a president, evangelical doctrine is not a litmus test of whether that person will serve well. George Bush (who was highly favored by Evangelicals) was a United Methodist, and, when in office, attended an Episcopal church; Bill Clinton (much disfavored by Evangelicals) was a Baptist. Ronald Reagan attended Hollywood Presbyterian Church (affiliated with the liberal Presbyterian Church USA), while Jimmy Carter, the first self-professed "born again" president, taught Sunday school in a Southern Baptist church.

    History has not judged these presidents on their church affiliations, but on their record as leaders. This will be true for the next president.

    It's not helpful to make a decision on a candidate's religious label, whether it's Newt Gingrich as a Roman Catholic (he left his Baptist roots in 2008), or Mitt Romney as a lifelong Mormon, the two leading contenders. The same applies to the other candidates.

    Jesus said, "Ye shall know them by their fruits." (Matthew 7:16 ) This says nothing about the person's religious identity. Jesus made this clear in the parable of the Good Samaritan by holding up a Samaritan (considered an infidel by his fellow Jews) as the paragon of virtue over a priest and a Levite--two certified Jewish doctrinal authorities.

    My prayer is that Christians in Iowa will make their choice for president based on the best overall leader--and one that is electable. This may be the most important presidential race in our nation's history. The next president will leave a legacy far beyond four or eight years, because this president will likely choose Supreme Court justices who serve lifetime terms, deciding cases on the the sanctity of life, marriage, and the family. In other words, the choices of this next president will affect the future of American civilization. The consequences are too grave to risk wasting a vote.

    As Iowan Christians prayerfully vote in the caucuses, we should all pray that our choices will, in the end, be the best for our families, our communities, and our nation.

    Rev. Rob Schenck
Rev. Rob Schenck, who speaks here as an individual citizen and not for any organization, has been an ordained evangelical minister for 29 years. He his a graduate of Faith Evangelical College and Seminary and is president of Faith and Action, a Christian outreach to government officials in Washington, DC. He is also a board member of the Evangelical Church Alliance.
12 Dec 2011

New Farmer Leadership Takes Soybean Checkoff into the Future

By United Soybean Board
anessa Kummer Elected to Lead United Soybean Board

ST. LOUIS (Dec. 6, 2011) - The national soybean checkoff just wrapped up its first 20 years, but the work doesn't end there. As the United Soybean Board (USB) launches into the next 20 years, new U.S. soybean farmer-leaders take the reins and plan to continue the focus on creating profit opportunities for all U.S. soybean farmers.

USB farmer-directors elected Vanessa Kummer (Koo-mer) as chairperson on Dec. 6, during the checkoff's annual meeting. The Colfax, N.D., soybean farmer will have a busy agenda leading the soybean checkoff's implementation of a new strategic plan. Kummer looks at addressing recommendations from a farmer-driven assessment of USB and help lead the U.S. soybean industry. She will continue to shepherd the checkoff as it looks to increase soybean farmers' profitability in an ever-evolving industry.

"It is our vision to make U.S. soybeans the leader in the global oilseed industry," says Kummer. "We plan to create and maintain partnerships to keep U.S. soybean farmers profitable."  Kummer is the first woman elected to chair the national soybean checkoff.

The team set to lead USB and help the soybean checkoff meet global customer demands with Kummer includes the following officers:

  • Jim Stillman, Emmetsburg, Iowa as Vice Chair;
  • Jim Call, Madison, Minn., as Secretary;
  • Bob Haselwood, Berryton, Kan., as Treasurer;
  • Lewis Bainbridge, Ethan, S.D.
  • Russ Carpenter, Trumansburg, N. Y.
  • Sharon Covert, Tiskilwa, Ill.
  • Jim Schriver, Montpelier, Ind.
  • Jimmy Sneed, Hernando, Miss.
  • Rick Stern, Cream Ridge, N.J.

Marc Curtis, a soybean farmer from Leland, Miss., will continue to serve on the leadership team as past chair.

"We have a great direction and a good team to make things happen," adds Kummer. "We're excited to help direct action that will increase soy's value for all U.S. soybean farmers."

In 2012, the soybean checkoff plans to focus on specific, new strategic objectives. They include directing soybean checkoff dollars to improve U.S. soybean meal and oil, helping ensure U.S. soybean farmers have the freedom and adequate transportation infrastructure to operate and meeting the needs customers of U.S. soy here at home and abroad. In addition, USB made supporting the biggest domestic user of soy, U.S. poultry, livestock and fish farmers, its top priority.

USB is made up of 69 farmer-directors who oversee the investments of the soybean checkoff on behalf of all U.S. soybean farmers. Checkoff funds are invested in the areas of animal utilization, human utilization, industrial utilization, industry relations, market access and supply. As stipulated in the Soybean Promotion, Research and Consumer Information Act, USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service has oversight responsibilities for USB and the soybean checkoff.

For more information on the United Soybean Board, visit www.unitedsoybean.org
Visit us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/UnitedSoybeanBoard
Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/unitedsoy
View our YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/user/UnitedSoybeanBoard

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12 Dec 2011

Grassley Statement at Express Scripts/Medco Merger Hearing

By Grassley Press

Statement of Ranking Member Chuck Grassley of Iowa

Senate Committee on the Judiciary,

Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy and Consumer Rights

Hearing on "The Express Scripts/Medco Merger: Cost Savings for Consumers or More Profits for the Middlemen?"

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Mr. Chairman, thank you for holding this hearing.  Whether people know it or not, this proposed merger will affect them.  Prescription drugs are a daily part of many folk's lives.  How those drugs are paid for and determining who gets paid what is a complex process.  At the heart of all of this are the Pharmacy Benefit Managers, or PBMs.

The combination of Express Scripts and Medco would create a company that processes almost one-third of all PBM-administered prescriptions.  Basically, one in four individuals who receive prescription drugs through a health plan will be impacted.  So, this is an important matter.  I expect the Federal Trade Commission will examine this merger rigorously, as they should.

Today this Committee has the opportunity to hear some practical concerns with the merger in a public forum.  I'm sure there will be much discussion on the legal issues that will be part of the Federal Trade Commission's review.  However, we get the chance to listen to those who support and oppose the proposed merger. I expect the discussion will be fruitful and informative.

I've heard from a large number of Iowa pharmacists who raise concerns.  I'm interested to hear about the effect this merger will have on them and consumers.  There are also transparency and competition issues that deserve discussion and today's a great opportunity to do so.

Again, thank you for holding this very important hearing, Mr. Chairman, and I look forward to hearing from the witnesses.
12 Dec 2011

Not Defeated, Still Dedicated

By Friends of Herman Cain

Friends,

On behalf of my wife Gloria and I, our dedicated and talented campaign staff, the army of Herman Cain volunteers and all who worked tirelessly to make this campaign an amazing experience, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

I am grateful for all those who donated precious time and hard-earned money to support and promote this extraordinary crusade for positive change for the country we love so much.  Your passionate support was inspiring.

You're not defeated as long as you never stop fighting. And while my presidential campaign is suspended, it's important to remember that my pursuit of the presidency was only a means to an end. As long as the end is achieved, victory will be at hand.

I'm disappointed we did not achieve the ultimate outcome of winning the Presidency, but make no mistake: You made an astonishing and long-lasting impact, not only on this election - but on the entire American political discourse for years to come.

It is my strong intent going forward to assist not only other campaigns, but to influence the entire political landscape. We will continue to evaluate that influence, how it can be improved, and what can be done to persuade others to promote and implement our bold solutions.

I continue to be dedicated to making positive change in our economy, our culture and our country. God bless you, and God bless America.

Your friend,


Herman Cain

12 Dec 2011

Midland Communications Helps Companies Take Advantage of Significant Tax-Breaks for New Technology

By Brian Suerth

Midland Communications Educates Customers on Powerful Stimulus Plan

DAVENPORT, IA - November 30, 2011 - Midland Communications, a leading provider in unified communications, announced today that the company is helping customers take advantage of a large tax-break for small to mid-sized businesses with Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 179. The tax benefit targets businesses who are contemplating large equipment purchases, such as technology, and significantly reduces the cost of purchasing such equipment. Section 179 allows business owners to write-off the entire cost, up to $500,000, on new equipment purchases made by December 31st, 2011.

Many Americans were left wondering how the Stimulus Package would have an impact on their lives and Section 179 has answered that question for many business owners. Creating significant savings on major purchases of equipment, software or phone systems, the federal government has enacted this bill in an effort to spur business-to-business spending. Right now businesses can expense the entire purchase price of qualifying equipment/software/phone systems in the first year up to $500,000 (to be reduced to $125,000 at the end of the 2011 tax year). Also slated to expire at the end of the 2011 tax year is the 100% Bonus Depreciation, which will drop down to 50 percent. For example, assuming you're in a 35% tax bracket, a $45,000 purchase would drop dramatically, and would cost approximately $29,250 after Section 179 has been applied to the transaction. In a transaction like this, Section 179 would yield a total savings of $15,750. While every transaction is different and tax professionals should be consulted on specific situations, the potential rewards of this government program has persuaded many business owners to seriously consider investing in new equipment before year-end.

The one caveat associated with this powerful program is that the new equipment must be in use by December 31, 2011 in order to qualify for the massive savings. This year, Section 179 also extends to cover software purchases in addition to traditional equipment. Many business owners have installed new business phone systems as a result of this addition to the tax code, because recent breakthroughs in telecommunications are enabling businesses to collaborate better, faster and more efficiently with one another.

"We were stunned to find out that so many of our customers had not yet heard of Section 179," commented Jason Smith, Vice President of Midland Communications. "We may specialize in delivering technology solutions to our customers, but we treat our customers like partners. If we find something as powerful as this we have always considered it to be our duty to communicate this information to our customers. Our goal is to introduce our customers to technology that increases their productivity, but more importantly increases their profitability . When an opportunity like this comes along, we're thrilled to skip discussions regarding technology, and go straight to the part where our customers get to enjoy increased profitability. That's why we're different and we plan on continuing to treat our customers like gold."

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