On 4/14/2014 I posted and asked that people write to Alayna at the OMMP as they had broadcast a rate reduction, "relating to reduced fees for veterans with disabilities or who receive need-based pensions from the Veterans Administration".

Today I received notice of the hearing they held on April 16th.  No one showed up to testify in person but FOUR of us emailed and gave our input.  (We didn't even have to spend a stamp, just a couple of minutes at the keyboard).  Since there were four people who stated their opinions, of course we weren't heard and all that is puppet-ted back to us is 'the OHA leadership asked for "this", so "this" is all we are listening to'.  The way the BS works, perhaps that's all they are allowed to listen to, but a nice follow on would have been, "I will let Tawana Nichols, Section Manager (OMMP) know of your concerns!"  Instead, I believe they must think, "Naw... we'll have none of that!  We will ignore the fact that you're on to us and the more than $7 Million a year excess paid in, in fees, by those sick, in pain, and dying".  It's likely a game to them to see how much they can bilk us for.

I admit, this wasn't my best letter to them - but I am so sick and tired of their outrageous fees when there is such an overage, that I can't hold my tongue.  Below you can read their summary of what the four of us said, their response to our comments, as well as our actual emails. Click on the bottom right corner of the letter and it should make it "full page" for easier reading.  If not, please email and I will send you the report if you would like to read it.   

Next time we'll make a difference. Right?

Thank you.

Today is the last day to cast your vote in the Primary Election.  You want there to be competition in November, right?  Well, there has to be someone on the ballot.  Someone other than John Lindsey would like to be on the County Council.  Is the new guy open to allowing people to use a plant to treat their ailments, and having safe local access or is it someone who will also tell Linn County residents to go elsewhere to get their Cannabis?  

It is important for there to be a lot of votes cast so these people who are "making decisions for our well-being" understand that we Canna-consumers exist, and WE EXERCISE OUR RIGHT TO VOTE!

Remember, you don't even have to put a stamp on it, you just have to get it to the ballot box.  There is one right outside the Linn County Courthouse on the South side of the building (5th Ave & Broadalbin). Benton County, Oregon, is this time for your Primary as well?  Vote for those who were good to you if you believe in the rest of their platform! You want to do this!  The old phrase comes to mind, "there's power in numbers".

I am happy to smile wide once again, and that delights me!  One thing I have not had is pain or swelling.  That's right:  no pain, no swelling... and I had nine teeth removed Monday.  I stayed home from work Tuesday (I could have gone in, but don't tell Kendra and Sunny, they did great in my absence!)  I've been back the last four days and haven't missed a beat.

I took two indica pain caps every four hours for the first three days, then a couple on Thursday, Friday, and one this afternoon.  I have to give credit to the surgeon and his staff, Dr Gabriel Kennedy is his name.  You can reach him at 541-924-9000.  He performs surgery in Albany, Corvallis, and Salem. Please let him know I sent you.  This is the third time he has performed surgery on me, and he has done a fantastic job every time.  I am also very happy with Aspen Dental here in Albany, and recommend them.  

The Cannabis plant continues to amaze me every day, even though I see it and hear it literally every single day - this is a miracle plant and needs to be SET FREE!  Stand up and shout for the Repeal of Cannabis Prohibition.  Trust me, it's a whole lot better than legalization!  Please learn more.