NARFE REGION VI SEMINAR TYLER, TEXAS

SEPTEMBER 16-17, 2009

September 16, 2009

The Wednesday morning meeting was called to order at 9:04 AM by the President of the co-host Chapter 344 Dr. James Novy. Invocation was presented by Linda Richards of co-host Chapter 801. The Presentation of Colors was led by the Korean War Veterans of East Texas Chapter 286. Pledge of Allegiance was led by Frances Grimes. The National Anthem was sung by Rosie Harman and accompanied by Gary Blevins of the New Jerusalem Baptist Church.

Henry Bell III of the Tyler Visitors Bureau welcomed us to Tyler and pointed out that Tyler is the Rose Capital of the country and encouraged a visit to the Rose Gardens.

Special guests were introduced by James Novy and the gavel was presented to Jerry Hatfield, Region VI Vice President.

The keynote speaker was Joseph Beaudoin, National Vice President, who spoke about the structure of the NARFE organization and its staff. He stressed that each staff member is there to help us. He went on to say that legislative issues and recruiting are not the major problems with NARFE. Lack of effective communication all across the board is the problem. Everyone is responsible for contacting his Congressmen and contacting potential members. NARFE is likened to an insurance policy. You pay a little money up front and you know it is there when you need it.

The Federation Reports were presented next. Jerry spoke on behalf of the Republic of Panama. He pointed out that Panama needs NARFE even more than the rest of us. They have no representation in Congress. The expense of the trip prevented the Federation President from attending.

Joseph Landry of Louisiana uses incentives for recruiting and dues withholding. 24% of their members are on dues withholding. He is working to develop a Federation Newsletter.

Winston Wolfe from Arkansas stresses retention of our present benefits to his members. They have training officers who hold seminars around the state to show support and recruit new officers.

Charles Stanphill of Oklahoma uses incentives for retention as well as recruiting members. The M-112 report has very important information and stresses that each chapter use it for effective retention. NARFE was successful in the State Legislature to get the CSRS retirement pay exempted from State income tax.

Rodney Smith from Texas is encouraging dues withholding and congressional visits. Their large state is divided into districts where meetings are held and he feels the greatest communication takes place there.

Jerry Hatfield gave his Region VI Report and overview. Our region is losing members at about the same ratio as nationally. He stressed that notices will be sent to new eligible retirees and former members.

There were announcements and door prizes before adjourning for lunch.

After lunch we reconvened at 1:00 PM. Dr. John Thomas of Texas spoke of Making Easy Contacts with Congress. It is easy to call, write or email our Congressmen. Everyone is responsible for doing that. He pointed out that sometimes all it takes is asking your representative to cosponsor a bill. They get busy and sometimes forget to cosponsor a bill they have signed onto before.

James Crowder of Oklahoma spoke about legislative issues at the State level. Like National level legislation, it takes persistence and constant contact. He is a very visible person at the Capitol and meets with everyone who can help us in our mission.

Joseph Beaudoin then spoke on Retention Secrets You Can Use with a Power Point presentation. We must continue telling members and potential members what advantages NARFE provides them. Not only do we fight for legislation of importance, but we provide Service Officers, NARFE PAC, support Alzheimer’s research, scholarship awards, disaster aid, pre-retirement seminars and other member perks, and provide newsletters and websites with information of importance to retired Federal employees.

After a coffee break and door prizes, the seminar continued with a panel discussion and questions about retention.

The Wednesday sessions ended for the day at 4:20 PM.

The evening meal, A Mexican Night Buffet, was provided by the seminar committee as part of the registration fee.

September 17, 2009

The Thursday morning session was called to order at 9:03 AM by Jerry Hatfield and a moment of silence was observed. Announcements were made which included an accounting of the numbers present. They included: 127 total participants, 75 from Texas, 32 from Oklahoma, 8 from Louisiana, 10 from Arkansas, and 2 from the National Office.

The Chapter Management Team led by Marshall Richards of Texas was called to the head table. Rubie Hokanson of Oklahoma spoke about the President’s duties. Nancy Maria Denn of Arkansas spoke on Service Officer duties. Fred Ratcliff of Texas spoke about chapter organization and officer responsibility. Joseph Beaudoin spoke about how to get programs, and encouraged speakers of interest and novel ideas to make the meeting fun, such as door prizes and awards.

Nancy Stanphill from Oklahoma spoke about Website Management. Computer use is up sharply and we need to take advantage of this form of communication. She gave resources and program names of value to help in this endeavor.

After a coffee break, the Federation Management Team led by Jerome Smith from Texas presented its sessions. Jerome made some opening remarks about likenesses and differences in our Federations present at this meeting. Jeff Vaughan of Oklahoma spoke about the Federation President’s duties. Bobbie Guillory from Louisiana spoke about the Vice President’s duties. Nancy Stanphill of Oklahoma listed the duties of the Federation Secretary and Treasurer. Jerome finished the discussion with other officer’s duties.

After a lunch break, we came to order again at 1:15 PM. Hinda Gibbs of Arkansas gave an update on Alzheimer’s Research developments. She listed an interesting account of what Alzheimer’s IS and what it ISN’T. Progress is being made on early detection of the signs of the disease and new medications are helping delay the worst effects from it. Research is showing that certain genes seem to point to the likelihood of developing the disease.

Noemi Galvan of Texas spoke on the NARFE Scholarship selection process. Louisiana had five applicants, Oklahoma had eight, Arkansas had six, and Texas had 33. Six winners were selected with one alternate. Each state had at least one winner, with 3 winners from Texas and the alternate from Texas. Permission was granted later in the seminar to announce the winners from our Region. Those winners will be listed on the NARFE website soon and will be published in the NARFE Magazine.

The 2010 Convention dates for our Region were announced and the Presidents of those Federations gave an invitation to all to attend. Panama’s convention is on March 20, 2010, Oklahoma’s convention is on April 15-17, 2010 in Tulsa, and Arkansas’ convention is May 13-15 in North Little Rock. The other Federations meet for a convention every other year and will not meet in 2010.

The 31st National Convention will be held in Grand Rapids, Michigan late August, 2010. Other details will follow. The next Region VI Seminar will be held in Arkansas in 2011. Details will follow.

Questions were then allowed to be addressed to the Federation Presidents. A discussion of the upcoming referendum was allowed with questions and answers. Most confusion about the process was cleared up. The referendum vote will close on December 8, 2009 and the count will begin by an independent firm.

Closing remarks were made by Jerry Hatfield and other announcements ended the Seminar at 4:00 PM.

Rose bushes donated by Tyler Rose Nursery were available for pickup. The closing Banquet featured Prime Rib, vegetables, potato, and Key Lime pie. The entertainment was provided by "Pick’N Grass" who played Blue Grass Music.



Submitted by

Nancy Stanphill

Oklahoma Federation Secretary

NATIONAL ACTIVE AND RETIRED FEDERAL EMPLOYEES
NEWSLETTER
Allie J. Picou, Jr. Chapter 1482 –July 2009
Chapter 1482 NEWSLETTER IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY N.A.R.F.E.
Allie J. Picou, Jr. Chapter 1482
NEXT MEETING AT BENEDICT’S RESTAURANT
Wednesday, July 29, 2009 - 11:30 a.m. - $15.00
PLEASE MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO ATTEND YOUR MONTHLY MEETINGS.
YOUR SUPPORT IS ESSENTIAL. AND REMEMBER TO WEAR YOUR NAME TAG.
Officers 2008-09

President: Michael Bannon Ph: 985 624-8170 michael.bannon@att.net; 1st V.P Rose Band 1922 Livingston St. Mandeville, LA 70448 985 626-5090 rosalieband@bellsouth.net :2nd V.P.: Mack V. Truslow Ph: 985 246-6040 wombat8888@aol.com: Treasurer: Adolfo (Al) Ramirez 286 Laura Dr. S. Mandeville, LA 70448 Ph: 985 626-1631 adram@bellsouth.net: Secretary: Henry Bertrand Ph: 985 674-9229 eplanet@bellsouth.net Committee Chairs: Legislative: Ed Brannon 367 Devon Drive Mandeville, LA 70448 Ph: 985 626-7232 maedbran@bellsouth.net Telephone: Mary Roberts Ph: 985 892-9417: Special Events: Yvonne Decker Ph: 985 626-8375 Alzheimer’s: Rosalie Band 1922 Livingston Mandeville, LA 70448 Ph: 985 626-5090 roseband@bellsouth.net Newsletter Editor: Gloria Cruice Ph: 985 727-2584 gloriacruice@gmail.com

PRESIDENT’S CORNER

You and I are facing a large amount of legislation that could have a significant, life long impact on us and our families; and it has never been more important to stay informed and be involved. You have a source that can assist you with both in getting you the information you need and in contacting your Congressional Representatives and Senators regarding action that you want them to take on pressing legislative bills. Your source is at the NARFE website: www.narfe.org. This location will guide you through to the legislative hotline section where you can get updates on pressing legislation and then go to a section for a list of your Representatives and Senators and their contact information, for you to let them know what you need. This is a great tool that is right there at you finger tips.
On July 29, Ralph O’Neal of the organization St. Tammany Law Enforcement Together will join us to speak on senior oriented home security.
Have a safe trip to the meeting.

Mike Bannon, President

Legislative Report

Recently we have been inundated with mountains of propaganda about the economy and health care reform. NARFE has urged us to contact our legislators and tell them to make Premium Conversion part of any health care reform bill. Before contacting your legislators, get well informed on the possible disadvantages of its passage as well as the possible benefits you expect to gain if comprehensive health care reform is enacted in its current form. Knowledge is power. Gather all the information you can and then decide what you want to tell your elected officials. Regardless of your position, let your legislators know how you feel and make certain they know you are from the National Active and Retired Federal Employee Association. Do not just say you are from NARFE. Use the name, not the initials


MEMBERS: Upon arriving at Benedict’s for the meeting and when you register and pay, please advise Yvonne Decker whether the people in your party are members or guests. If your spouse is with you and is not a registered member, please tell her you have a guest. This is necessary for the Secretary's records. Thank you for your assistance.

MINI-MINUTES June 24, 2009 By Henry Bertrand, Secretary
Meeting began at 11:58 AM, Benedict’s Restaurant, President Mike Bannon presiding. 25 members, 2 paying guests, 1 non-paying guest (speaker) in attendance. After the blessing and pledge of allegiance, 2nd VP Mack Truslow introduced today’s speaker, Lt. Fred Escher of the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office. He spoke on crime prevention, senior scams, telemarketers, 911 calls, and safety concerns of elderly people. (See NOTE.)
The 50/50 Drawing was won by Emile Fallo who received $16, with the other $16 going to the Chapter Treasury. Fallo contributed $8 to the Alzheimers Fund.
After lunch, Bobby Kullman made a motion that we dispense with reading the May minutes, second by Mary Miller, passed by voice vote.
The Treasurer’s report was read by Ed Brannan (for absent Treasurer Al Ramirez) showing an opening combined balance of $3242.56, closing combined balance of $3397.30. This was accepted on a motion by Mary Miller, second by Helen Scott, voice vote. (Full Treasurer’s Report is an Attachment in the full minutes.)
President Bannon called for officer reports: 2nd VP Mack Truslow thanked those who made suggestions for speakers and encouraged more input in this area. Federation President Joe Landry told of the upcoming meeting of Federation Presidents and the Executive Board in Grand Rapids, Michigan in July. Discussion ensued about a proposed dues increase from $33 to $40 with local chapters getting $9 per person rather than the current $5. Landry asked for member feedback on this.
Ed Brannan asked if any interest had been shown on a field trip to the Wildlife & Fisheries Refuge (since the idea surfaced in March). Truslow stated “yes”, but proposed planning this at a cooler time of the year in the fall.
Adjournment came at 1:24 PM on a motion by Ed Brannan, second by Rose Band, and voice vote.
NOTE: “Mini-Minutes”cover all business items of the full minutes in abbreviated form (where possible) for inclusion in the newsletter.
NOTE: Lt. Escher left an office phone number (985-898-2338) for elders needing a free cellphone good only for dialing 911 in emergencies!!!


Happy Birthday to: Inez Buttone – 7/5, Raymond Haddad – 7/11, Barbara Capdeville – 7/13, Jules Hubert – 7/22, Bobby Kullman – 7/27


Happy Anniversary to: We are not aware of any Anniversaries this month.


PLEASE PRAY for these members or Members’ loved ones who are ill or shut-in:

(Please tell us if you know members who are ill or shut-in.)

Note from Editor Gloria Cruice: If we don’t wish you a Happy Birthday in the Newsletter, it’s because we don’t have your birth date. Please email your birth date to me at gloriacruice@gmail.com. (The same for wedding anniversaries.)

National Active & Retired Federal Employees Association
Louisiana Federation of Chapters, Westbank Chapter 1397
ALIGERS TO AVONDALE
PROTECTING THE FUTURE YOU EARNED
March & April 2009
ELECTED OFFICERS: President Leon L Scoriels, 504-393-7810, First Vice President Sarita S Schubert, 818-3080, Second Vice President Beverly Segrue, 393-6961, Secretary Linda Kuhn 301-3996, Treasurer Doug O’Leal, 433-4670
APPOINTED OFFICERS: Chaplain James Bennett 361-1961, Sgt at Arms M J Lapeyrouse 368-7256;
COMMITTEES: Alzheimer Coordinator James Bennett 361-1961, Legislative Beverly Segrue 393-6961, Membership & Newsletter Bobbie Guillory/ Linda Kuhn, Program & Public Relations Hilda Jung 361-8815, Refreshments M J Lapeyrouse, 368-7256 & Sarita S Schubert 818-3080, Service Officer Bobbie Guillory, 812-1453, Sunshine Martha Benoit 393-2271, Social Betty Albert 340-4459, Ways & Means Lester Orgeron 367-8520., Welcome Bernice Cherry/Lee Barient, Historian,

MEETING: Thursday, March 19, 2009 our luncheon will be held at the Piccadilly Cafeteria, 533 Lapalco
Ave Gretna, LA, 11:30 A.M.

MEETING: Thursday April 23, 2009 our crawfish boil at the Gretna Community Center this will be the
Fourth Thursday of the month at 12 Noon, Call Betty Albert and tell that you are coming, Guest are Welcome. Cut off date is April 13 2009. Cost $12.00 Make your check to NARFE Chapter 1397 and mail to Betty Albert 1029 Michael St, Marrero, LA 70072. REMEMBER you need to bring your own drink or buy one from the machine at the Community Center. No beer is allowed!

MEETING: Thursday May 21, 2009 our bingo/ice cream party at the Gretna Community Center at 1 P.M.
Leon’s Logic:
2009 is off to an expeditious start. Our 35th anniversary observance in January was delightful. Thanks to all who could attend. Many items needed to be covered during February’s meeting. I thank all who came and I deeply appreciate the many ideas and statements. Your participation at our meeting will make NARFE Chapter 1397 one of the best chapters in Louisiana.

Coming up in April is our State Convention. We need as many Chapter 1397 members as possible to attend out State Convention this year, I encourage all to go.

Leon

Membership: Welcome new members Christine Trevett, Isidore J Grisoli and Bernard Bradley. We hope to see you at the next meeting. Second renewal notices been sent to: Rudy Smith, John W Hale, Ethel Currault, Lela Fowler, Helen Michel, Dorothy Sessums and Herbert Tassin hope you will renew. Members who have been reinstated Willietta L Brown and Dorothy Peart we thank you. Members dropped for non-renewal Leo Hebert.
Members who are not on Dues Withholding should join when your dues come due no more
notices or late payments. Call Bobbie Guillory 812-1453 for information to sign up for dues withholding.

Legislative: NARFE has successfully spearheaded efforts to include federal, state and local retirees, who do not receive any Social Security benefits, in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, H.R. 1. But for NARFE and coalition work, championed by Sen. John Kerry (D-MA) and with the help of Senate Finance Committee Chairman, Sen. Max Baucus (D-MT), and other fed friendly lawmakers, the massive economic stimulus legislation would have left out many CSRS retirees along with a much larger number of state and local government retirees who are entirely outside the Social Security system.
Under the auspices of the stimulus package, tax relief via reduced payroll tax withholding will be provided to wage-earners under the ‘Make Work Pay’ provisions. Social Security, Veterans, Supplemental Security Income or Railroad Retirement beneficiaries, who are not otherwise wage-earners, will see a one-time $250 increase in these payments. As a result of NARFE’s advocacy, federal retirees who are not eligible for any of these payments will be eligible to take a newly-created $250 per person refundable tax credit. The House vote came at 2:26 on February 13. By a roll call vote of 246 to 183, the House passed the final bill. A Senate vote is expected by February 14.
NARFE-supported, bipartisan legislation, numbered H.R. 235 was introduced January 4th by Rep. Howard Berman (D-CA) and cosponsored by Rep. Buck McKeon (R-CA), to repeal both the Social Security Government Pension Offset (GPO) and Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP). Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) will introduce a Senate companion soon. House and Senate lead sponsors for Premium Conversion will introduce legislation during February. The first 149 cosponsors of H.R. 235 are listed in state order on the NARFE Legislative Action Center (www.capwiz.com/narfe).
NARFE-supported, bipartisan legislation, H.R. 958, which would allow Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) employees to credit their unused sick leave toward their retirement, was reintroduced by Rep. Jim Moran (D-VA) on February 11. This legislation, if enacted, would conform the treatment of unused Sick Leave between the two federal civil service retirement systems. The two original cosponsors, Rep. Frank Wolf (R-VA) and Rep. Gerry Connelly (D-VA), have been joined by five others.


NARFE NON-PROFIT ORG
CHAPTER 1397 WESTBANK U. S. POSTAGE
3448 LOUISE STREET PAID
HARVEY, LA 70058-5458 PREMIT NO 74
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED GRETNA, LA
DATED MATERIAL

Sunshine:

Please keep our ill members in you prayers. Remember if you know of a member who is ill please notifying our Sunshine Chair, Martha Benoit at 393-2271. This month a sympathy card was sent to the family of Louis Vergez. Martha received a lovely thank you card from his family.

Secretary Notes:

In January our Chapter celebrated its 35th anniversary at Timberlane Country Club. It was very well attended. The 50/50 was won by Gladys Nunez, who donated the money back to the Chapter. The four extra meals were given as door prizes and won by: Bettie Martin, Bernice Cherry, Martha Benoit and Robert Ziifle.
The February meeting was a very busy one. The tax and audit reports were given and filed. The schedule of events was completed (notice the changes below). The Christmas luncheon is not known at this time. Various places are still being considered.
Betty Albert was voted “Volunteer of the Year” and will receive a certificate at the April Convention. James Bennett will be recognized in the Convention booklet as an active member at least 90 years of age.
At this time we have six delegates attending the Convention and we are allowed eleven. If you would like to attend call Linda at 301-3996 no later than March 10.
Joe Landry, Federation 1st Vice President was a guest. He spoke about NARFE PAC.
The 50/50 winner was Charles Simoneaux.
Door prizes were donated by Hilda Jung, Bettie Martin and Bernice Cherry. The winners were: Sarita Schubert, Ronald Landry, Martha Benoit and Louise Pullen.



WESTBANK CHAPTER 1397 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 2009
DATE PLACE EVENT TIME
March 19, 2009 Piccadilly Cafeteria LUNCHEON 12PM
April 14, 15, 16 2009 Federation Convention Covington, LA Holiday Inn
April 23, 2009 Gretna Community Center Craw Fish Boil 12PM
May 21, 2009 Gretna Community Center Bingo/Ice-cream Party 1PM
June 18, 2009 Gretna Community Center Caterer Luncheon A & W 12PM
July 16, 2009 Gretna Community Center 1PM
August 20, 2009 Chopstix LUNCHEON 12PM
September 17, 2009 Gretna Community Center Bunco 1PM
October 15, 2009 Gretna Community Center 1PM
November 19, 2009 Gretna Community Center Thanksgiving Luncheon Caterer 12PM
December 10, 2009 ////////// Christmas Luncheon 11AM

HELP THE FOOD BANK BRING A CAN OR TWO OR THREE,
HECK BRING AS MUCH AS YOU WANT OF FOOD

NARFE NEWS
Chapter 290 Monroe-West Monroe
National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association
4100 Forsythe Avenue, Monroe, LA 71201-2207 Nov.-Dec. 2008

November Meeting Looks at 2009 Legislation
On the back page of this newsletter is a story about the report presented by NARFE Legislative Director Dan Adcock at the national convention in September. At our meeting on Monday, Nov. 10, we’ll present Adcock’s full speech so you’ll have a better understanding of his thinking. Time permitting; we’ll also discuss the campaign statements of President –elect Obama related to NARFE’s interests.
The meeting will be at the Piccadilly Cafeteria on Louisville Avenue in Monroe, beginning at 11:30 a.m.

From the President — There’s no doubt that NARFE’s government “watchdog” and legislative work is our primary function. From the very beginning and throughout its history, NARFE has constantly been alert to every opportunity to improve and protect the earned benefits of federal workers and retirees. Today, as always, we need every member to actively participate by exercising our influence as voters and lobbyists. You can help by giving to NARFE-PAC, which helps provide campaign funds for congressional candidates who support NARFE’s legislative efforts.
Through the years, other opportunities for involvement have developed. One of the most important is the organization’s commitment to raise funds for research aimed at prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Since 1985, NARFE members and chapters have raised more than $7.5 million for Alzheimer‘s research. At this year‘s national convention, a new goal was set to raise $9 million by the time of NARFE‘s 90th anniversary in 2011. Also five new grants for research were announced, all aimed at early detection of the disease. Betty Cummings is the Alzheimer‘s chairperson for our chapter. All donations go totally for research, none for administration.
After the 1995 bombing of the federal building in Oklahoma City, NARFE developed a partnership with the Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund. Members and chapters provided $100,000 to families of the victims of that disaster. Since Katrina, some $320,000 in NARFE-FEEA funds have helped 505 NARFE families, some of which was provided as cash grants for personal injury and damage to primary residential property from disasters, mainly hurricanes. NARFE-FEEA has also awarded $556,000 in college scholarships to children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and stepchildren of NARFE members. Contributions to NARFE-FEEA are tax deductible.
These opportunities to contribute are not intended to divert any of our effort from legislation. Some members, however, like to be involved in more than one way and the legislative message alone will not hold the interest of all of our more than 300,000 members. You are encouraged to be involved in whatever way suits you best. Your contributions can help us all and will be greatly appreciated.
— Ted Holmes, President

Welcome, New Member, And Thanks for Renewals — we’re pleased that Mrs. Annie Minnifield of Choudrant recently joined the chapter.
National headquarters reports recent membership renewals by Annie Minnifield of Choudrant; Evan V. Klett, Epps; Catherine Boddie, Gibsland; Herbert Brown, Betty Cummings, Walter E. Huff, Herbert A. Lutz, Angelina Maggio and Dudley B. Sanderson, all of Monroe; Carmen A. Crawford and Roger Shelby of Ruston; Betty Robinson Doyle, Newellton; Ethel Dowe, Tallulah; and J. Elbert Hudson, Julia L. Latham and Dorothy Roark, all of West Monroe.
Dues were also received for Sidney T. Grafton of Bernice and Helen and Ted Holmes of Monroe, who pay by dues withholding.
Brenda Loche of Bastrop has been reported as a prospective member by the national office. If you know her, please urge her to join NARFE.

Scams Abound — During the holiday season we can expect unscrupulous schemers to step up their efforts to steal you identity and otherwise separate you from your money. One of the latest we’ve heard about is the Jury Duty scam. Here’s how it works. Your phone rings and the caller tells you that he/she is an official of a local court, that you have failed to appear for jury duty and a warrant for your arrest is being prepared. You inform the caller that you have not received a jury summons. The caller then agrees to investigate the matter and, in order to do this, the caller needs to know your date of birth and Social Security number. In your state of anxiety, you willingly give this information, which the caller can then use to steal your identity, making various kinds of transactions for which you will be held responsible.
Security authorities point out that courts never call jurors or prospective jurors on the phone and ask for personal information.
Coincidentally, as I was writing this I received a call from “The Credit Card Center” offering to reduce the interest rates on my credit cards. If I had talked with them, no doubt they would have asked for my credit card numbers, which they then could have used for their purchases. The wise thing to do with such calls is HANG UP. Don’t ever give out credit card or bank account numbers unless you initiated the call.
You might also get e-mail messages with similar messages or warnings that there’s a problem with your bank or credit card account. Known as phishing, these are efforts to get your account information, especially your account number. Promptly delete these messages.

A ‘Perfect Storm’ is Brewing—In his report to the NARFE national convention in September, NARFE Legislative Director Dan Adcock issued a warning: A “perfect storm” is gathering that threatens federal retirement benefits. He did not ask the delegates to take any specific immediate action, but he said they should begin making preparations now to defend their benefits by:
—Assembling telephone trees and calling committees so that rank-and-file members can be contacted within 48 hours to make calls to their members of Congress. Bills are often brought to the floor of the House and Senate with little notice so that groups like NARFE don’t have time to muster a grass-roots defense, he explained.
—Redoubling efforts to recruit and retain members. This is made harder because many members and prospective members don’t realize their benefits are at risk, he said. A NARFE poll found that 41 percent of federal employees erroneously believe that the federal government does not have the ability to change their retirement benefits, he reported.
—Becoming involved in political campaigns. “At the very least, if you are not going to be working on a campaign, remember to vote,” he said.
—Donating to NARFE-PAC, which makes campaign contributions to Fed-friendly members of Congress.
Federal and military retirement benefits and other entitlement programs—such as Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid—are in the path of the legislative storm that Adcock predicted.
He ticked off a long list of warning signs: the $400 billion federal deficit, the credit crisis and associated foreclosures and bank bailouts, the prospect of higher unemployment, the expense of waging two wars, the decline of retirement and health benefits in the private sector, the retirement of the baby boomer generation, and a possible recession that would depress tax revenue and increase the federal deficit.
Last, but not least, he said, the cost-of-living adjustment this year for federal annuitants and Social Security recipients will probably be more than 6 percent. “On one hand, that is great, but the other thing it does is paint a giant target on all of our backs,” he said.
Congressional attempts to overhaul entitlement programs are likely to take place in 2009, he said, because politicians like to take unpopular steps early in their terms.
Legislative Priorities
Adcock also provided an update on NARFE’s legislative activities, including efforts to enact “premium conversion” and repeal the Social Security Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO).
Adcock said the Legislative Department is working on a premium conversion “alternative” that would extend the health care tax exclusion recently granted to retired public safety officers to all federal retirees.
To move the legislation forward, NARFE needs to secure more “champions” on the House Ways and Means Committee and the Senate Finance Committee, he said. And it must target key members of Congress from districts with lots of federal employees and retirees.
With regard to WEP and GPO, Adcock said that the Ways and Means and Finance Committees historically have been reluctant to take up this legislation outside of an overall Social Security reform bill. No such legislation was considered by Congress this year, but there could be an opportunity next year, he said.
Adcock said he recognizes that members are frustrated that premium conversion and GPO/WEP bills have not yet been passed. However, he said, “beating ourselves up” is counterproductive and handicaps recruitment efforts. “Instead of focusing on what we have yet to accomplish, we should concentrate on what we have done.”


NARFE
National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association
PROTECTING YOUR FUTURE
Baton Rouge Chapter 99
NARFE Notes 99 is published monthly by Baton Rouge Area Chapter 99, National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association. Contributions of news and commentary are invited. Edited by Bob Rolfsen, 4523 Drusilla Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70809-6869. Phone 225-925-8047. E-mail: bob.rolfsen@cox.net.

November 19th 2008 11:30 a.m. Ryan’s Steak House
Third Wednesday NOT forth Wednesday 11650 Course Blvd (296-5470)
(Due to Thanksgiving)
Lunch…11:30 Program…12:20 Chapter Meeting….1:00

Speaker: Dr. Michael Rolfsen
Dr. Mike spent some time with us at a previous meeting and the Executive Committee has invited him to talk about “Patient Medical Ethics”. Should be an interesting topic.
************************************
Join us in wishing Happy Birthday greetings to:
Louis Kaufman (10th).…..Paul Knight (14th) …….and Jean Baron

$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

WELCOME to new members:
Lisa Matrana……Joycelyn A. Stanfill….. and Edna Wilson
We are delighted to have you in our chapter and encourage you to attend our meetings.

The following members are late in paying their dues. If you have misplaced your membership dues request, contact the Chapter Treasurer -Adele Heuvel at 924-3744:

Bess Boyd – Baton Rouge; Judith Johnson – Baton Rouge;
Lillian Lambert – Baton Rouge; Majorie Smith – Baton Rouge
William Sussman – Baton Rouge.
********************************************
Our condolences to the family and friends of long time member
Lois Wintz Hernandez who died on October 22nd.

The President’s Column
……………Bob Rolfen
The outlook for NARFE’s legislative programs in the coming year looks dim. We have been warned that the new congress will be in no mood to give anything and are more likely to try and take back from wherever they can to help balance the budget. The Federal Employees and Federal Retirees may be in for the fight of our life to hold and maintain our benefits.

National has requested that Chapters should gear up for a massive and speedy response to any adverse legislation that may be introduced in Congress. We can best do this by mobilizing our membership to contact our Senators and Congressmen when an issue arises that has negative impact on NARFE members.

We need to update our Chapter e-mail file. If you have an e-mail address and you are not receiving the Chapter 99 newsletter via e-mail…Please send us an e-mail message so that information can be sent to you ASAP. We also plan to establish a phone-tree system to stay in touch with members. If you are not listed in the telephone book, we will be sending you a letter requesting your phone number so that you can be reached as soon as possible

#######################################################
Christmas Luncheon Meeting

We have made arrangements to go back to the LSU Faculty Club for the Christmas luncheon. The event will be the THIRD Wednesday not the FOURTH Wednesday. The cost is $22 per person and the private room we have been assigned will only hold 35 people.

Contact the Chapter Treasurer to make a reservation and you will need to pay the $22 in advance. (Adele’s phone number is 924-3744


NARFE CHAPTER 438
MINUTES OF MEETING OCTOBER 14, 2008

The meeting was held at the Piccadilly Cafeteria on Ryan Street at 11:00 a.m.
We had 13 members and 1 visitor present. Vice President, Dan Mele, called
the meeting to order and introduced visitor, Toni Caraway, Executive Director
of The Calcasieu Council on Aging. Una Couvillion led the opening prayer,
followed by Dan leading the pledge of allegiance. We then broke for lunch.
Dan turned the meeting over to guest speaker, Toni Caraway. She gave us
a brief history of how she came to work for the Council some many years ago.
She also told of the many programs offered to senior adults by the Council
such as meals on wheels, utility assistance, prescription service, recreation
and many others. We were given booklets which outlined all the different
programs and she encouraged all seniors to take advantage of what they
have to offer. She supervises 100 employees.
Dan again called the meeting into business session. Anna Vandever made
a motion, seconded by Una, that the minutes be approved as printed in the
newsletter. The motion carried. Tony gave the treasurer’s report which
showed a balance of $973.87 as of October 1, 2008. He explained that the
Chase bank has begun to charge $12.00 per month service charge. After
discussion, motion was made by Buford Alston, seconded by Una that the
account be closed with Chase and opened at another bank which does not
charge a service fee. The motion carried. Tony requested that the constitution
and by-laws be amended to show who has authority to sign checks.
The matter was tabled until Ruth returns.
Anna reminded everyone about the Toys for Tots to be brought to the
December meeting. It is requested that the toys be new and unwrapped.
Dan announced that the Sunshine Committee has sent out several cards
and letters.

The half and half pot in the amount of $14.00 was won by Barbara Dickens.
Una requested that we return to the old way of bringing a gift to be raffled
instead of the half and half. The request was tabled at this time.

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 1:20 p.m.


Janis Mann, Secretary

National Active & Retired Federal Employees Association
Louisiana Federation of Chapters, Westbank Chapter 1397
ALIGERS TO AVONDALE
PROTECTING THE FUTURE YOU EARNED
NOVEMBER 2008
HAPPY THANKSGIVING
ELECTED OFFICERS President Bobbie E Guillory 504-367-8047, 812-1453, First Vice President Sarita S Schubert, 504-818-3080, Second Vice President Leon L Scoriels 504-393-7810, Secretary Linda Kuhn 504-301-3996,
APPOINTED OFFICERS Chaplain James Bennett 504-361-1961, Sgt at Arms M J Lapeyrouse 504-368-7256
COMMITTEES Alzheimer Coordinator James Bennett 504-361-1961, Historian, Legislative Beverly Segrue 504-393-6961, Membership & Newsletter Bobbie Guillory, Parliamentarian Leon L Scoriels 504-393-7810, Program & Public Relations Hilda Jung 504-361-8815, Refreshments M J Lapeyrouse, 504-393-2584, Service Officer Bobbie Guillory, 504 812 1453, Sunshine Martha Benoit 504-393-2271, Social Betty Albert 504-340-4459, Ways & Means Lester Orgeron 504-367-8520., Welcome Bernice Cherry

MEETING: Thursday, Nov. 20, 2008 Gretna Community Center, 1700 Monroe St.; Thanksgiving Luncheon catered 12 Noon; Election of Officers, Thanksgiving Day cost $13.00 Make check to NARFE Chapter 1397 and mail to Linda Kuhn, 2924 Manhattan Blvd. Unit 162, Harvey, LA 70058-5563
Ph 812-1453, Betty had an accident and broke her leg so Linda will fill in for her if you have send your check to Betty PLEASE call Linda to give a count of meals that you will need.
Menu: Cornish Hen; Dirty Rice; Peas; Salad; Bread and butter; Drinks and Dessert.
MEETING: Thursday, Dec 11, 2008 at the TIMBERLANE COUNTRY CLUB 11 AM. Cost $19.00, guests are welcome. There will be an open bar, lunch served at 12 Noon; make check to NARFE Chapter 1397 and mail to Linda Kuhn, 2924 Manhattan Blvd. Unit 162, Harvey, LA 70058-5563 cutoff date December 4 Ph 812-1453. Be sure to write your entrée choice on your check. Menu: Caesar Salad Chicken Breast Florentine or Fresh Fish Amandine Vegetables, Pecan Pie, Coffee & Tea
President’s Message:
Remember the Toys for Tots: The U.S. Marine’s Corp will pick them up at our December meeting. This is a new toy unwrapped. If you are not coming to the meeting you can send money, which the Marine’s will use to buy more toys. Bobbie E Guillory President Chapter 1397 & Louisiana Federation of Chapters
The nominating committee has proposed the slate of officers and committees for 2009-2010 as follows:
President – Leon Scoriels, First Vice President - Sarita Schubert
Second Vice President - Beverly Segrue, Secretary – Linda Kuhn
Treasurer – Doug O’Leal, Past President – Bobbie Guillory
Chaplain – James Bennett, Sgt at Arms – Morris Lapeyrouse
Alzheimer Coordinator – James Bennett,
Legislative - Beverly Segrue. Membership – Bobbie Guillory
Newsletter – Bobbie Guillory / Linda Kuhn,
Program & Public Relations – Hilda Jung , Coffee – Morris Lapeyrouse
Service Officer – Bobbie Guillory,Refreshments – Sarita Schubert
Social – Betty Albert Sunshine – Martha Benoit
Welcome – Bernice Cherry/Lee Barient Ways & Means – Lester Orgeron
Telephone Chairman -

MEMBERSHIP: Welcome new members. We hope to see you at the next meeting.
Second renewal notices have been sent to: Faye Palao and Johanna Simoneaux. We hope you will renew your membership in NARFE. The following members dropped for non-renewal Willietta Brown, Althea Childress, Gwendolyn Jolly and James Scarabin please renew, we need you!
All of our members who are not on dues withholding has received some mail about starting dues withholding. Just fill out the form and sign up for dues withholding; when your dues comes due no more notices or late payments. Call Bobbie at (504) 812-1453 for additional information or to sign up for dues withholding.

SUNSHINE: Lester Orgeron had a small stroke and he is back at home; Betty Albert has fallen and broke her leg. Please keep our ill members in you prayers. If you know of a member who is ill please notify our Sunshine Chairman, Martha Benoit at 393-2271.

COLA: The 2009 COLA for most CSRS annuitants will be 5.8 percent; FERS COLA is 4.8 Percent.

LEGISLATIVE: Prior to the upcoming “Open Season,” November 10, 2008 through December 8, 2008, OPM will mail CSRS and FERS annuitants detailed information about costs and benefits in FEHBP and about the Dental and Vision Plans, now in their third year. Availability of dental and vision plans, along with their premiums and benefits will vary. They are not dependent upon enrollment in the FEHBP, and unlike the health insurance plans, enrollees will pay the full cost of any elected option.

NARFE DATED MATERIAL NON-PROFIT ORG
CHAPTER 1397 WESTBANK U. S. POSTAGE
3448 LOUISE STREET PAID
HARVEY, LA 70058-5458 PREMIT NO 74
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED GRETNA, LA

VETERANS Day Celebration: The City of Gretna requests the honor of your presence at the Veterans Day Program Tuesday, November 11 2008, 7:00 pm at the Gretna Market Place, Huey P Long and Fourth St. Theme “Veterans: Yesterday, Today and Forever”

SECRETARY’S ABREVIATED MINUTES OF THE OCTOBER MEETING

There were 20 members and no guests in attendance. Bobbie welcomed back Thaddeus and Jean Washington. It was nice to see them again at the meeting.
Bobbie Guillory reported on the following: COLA is now at 5.8% CSRS, 4.8% FERS.
Bobbie reported on the various Health Insurance Plans. Blue Cross, self only, is going up $17.40 and the name brand prescriptions are going up from $35 to $65. GEHA is also going up with their premiums, but Medicare will not go up, unless you are making over $85,000.
Our chapter has about 225 members at this time. Membership continues to drop; 37,000 have dropped with National this year and 500 in the Louisiana Federation.
National now has a new company handling name tags. If anyone is interested in ordering one let Bobbie know.
We will be taking part in the Toys for Tots program again this year. Bring your donation to the Christmas luncheon unwrapped. The Marine Corp will pick them up at the meeting.
Our chapter’s monthly newsletter is costing about $1200 a year. Bobbie suggested we publish it every other month. The membership voted in favor of this. This will be considered when the budget is prepared.
Honorary Membership was discussed at the National Board Meeting and it was decided this will be discontinued. Those who are Honorary members at this time will be Grandfathered in and remain so.
Bobbie read the Nominating Committee’s slate of officers for 2009-2010. Sarita Schubert volunteered for 1st Vice President and Beverly Segrue volunteered to serve as 2nd Vice President. We now have a full slate for the officers, but could still use a few committee heads.
Thanks to Hilda Jung, Martha Benoit, Mary Baltovich, and Bernice Cherry for donating the refreshments.
Thanks to Sarita Schubert, Hilda Jung, Beverly Segrue and Linda Kuhn for donating the door prizes.
A question was asked if we heard anything about the Sheriff’s bus trip. Hilda Jung said she called once and was told we had to wait. She will call again.
Bobbie reported in the pass we have given the workers at the Community Center a Thanksgiving dinner. Bobbie is suggesting this because we use the Center for free. They have 11 workers at this time. Doug O’Leal made a motion we pay for them this year, it was seconded by Beverly Segrue, motion carried.
Fred Pope read a paper on the “Woman’s Perfect Breakfast” and gave a copy to anyone who wanted one.
The door prizes were won by Bernice Cherry, Fred Pope, Ronald Landry, Bobbie Guillory, Martha Benoit, Jean Washington, Doug O’Leal and Mae Overman.
Bobbie announced we will meet at the Community Center next month, and gave the menu for the Thanksgiving dinner. Guests are welcome.
Betty Albert was absent and we had no tickets, therefore, there was no 50/50 or Alzheimer’s donations.

HELP THE FOOD BANK BRING A CAN OR TWO OR THREE,
HECK BRING AS MUCH AS YOU WANT OF FOOD 
 

NATIONAL ACTIVE AND RETIRED FEDERAL EMPLOYEES
NEWSLETTER
Allie J. Picou, Jr. Chapter 1482 – October 2008

Chapter 1482 NEWSLETTER IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY N.A.R.F.E.
Allie J. Picou, Jr. Chapter 1482

Welcome to our October Meeting and don’t forget to wear your name tag.

Chapter 1482 Officers 2007-08

President: Adolfo (Al) Ramirez, 286 Laura Dr. S. Mandeville, LA 70448 Ph: 985 626-1631 adram@bellsouth.net

1d V.P.: Helen Scott Ph: 985 792-0032 helenhjs@aol.com

2nd V.P.: Mack V. Truslow Ph: 985 246-6040 wombat8888@aol.com

Treasurer: Michael Bannon Ph: 985 624-8170 mbannon@charter.net

Secretary: Henry Bertrand Ph: 985 674-9229 eplanet@bellsouth.net

Committee Chairs:

Legislative: Ed Brannon 367 Devon Drive Mandeville, LA 70448 Ph: 985 626-7232 maedbran@bellsouth.net

Telephone: Mary Roberts Ph: 985 892-9417

Special Events: Yvonne Decker Ph: 985 626-8375

Alzheimers: Rosalie Band 1922 Livingston Mandeville, LA 70448 Ph: 985 626-5090 roseband@bellsouth.net

Newsletter Editor: Gloria Cruice 643 Maple Street Mandeville, LA 70448 Ph: 985 727-2584 gloriacruice@gmail.com

PRESIDENT’S LETTER:
This month’s meeting is reserved for helping the victims of Alzheimer’s. Every year, at a monthly meeting in the Spring and again in October, we conduct a “Blind Auction Sale”. All the proceeds go to the State Federation which in turn sends the money to the NARFE National headquarters and who in turn sends all this money to the National Alzheimer’s Foundation.
Last year, our chapter collected more than $3,000. I do not know how much was collected by the rest of the chapters in the State, but I can tell you that our chapter was the one who collected more than anybody else. That is a source of pride for many in our chapter.
How is this money helping? The scientists working on Alzheimer’s now have several medicines that are showing promise. Who knows? Some say that one day we might just have a complete cure for this disease. I hope that they are right.
Your chances of getting the disease increase as you get older. Some people get this disease when they are in their 60’s. A good percentage of people age 70 or over, have Alzheimer’s. Did you know that when you reach age 85, you have a 50% chance of getting Alzheimer’s? In other words, of every 2 people age 85, one of them has Alzheimer’s. Will you be one of them?
So, what can you do? Well, bring a present to be auctioned at our meeting and bring your money and have a good time. Bring your spouse, or your friend, and your money or their money and bid on the items. Enjoy a good meal, the auction, and help fight Alzheimer’s.
See you at the meeting.
Adolfo Ramirez, Jr.

MINI-MINUTES September 24, 2008
By Henry Bertrand, Secretary
Meeting began at 12:03 PM, Benedict’s Restaurant, President Al Ramirez presiding. 25 members, 5 paying guests, and 2 speakers attending . Ramirez welcomed all, including new member Julie Gilbert. This was followed by the Blessing and the Pledge of Allegiance.
Dispense with reading August minutes on motion by Joe Tenet, second by Rose Band, voice vote.
Mike Bannon read the Treasurer’s Report: opening balance of $2061.10; closing balance of $2079.02. (Figures represent Chapter and Alzheimer Funds combined.) Report accepted on motion by Henry Bertrand, second by Bobby Kullman, voice vote. (For full Treasurer’s Report check elsewhere in newsletter.)
Officers Reports: Alzheimer Chair Rose Band confirmed Treasurer’s report for the Alzheimer Fund. She reported that at least 5 Alzheimer research projects are currently being funded including early detection through retinal analysis and analysis of cerebral/spinal fluids.
President Ramirez reported on the death of a former Chapter President, Jack Lemons, and a news article relating to this death. Ramirez further told of the high Consumer Price Index which may mean a large COLA for federal retirees in January. Our Chapter will receive $1500 from the State Federation for our 2009 Convention, but we must begin selling ads to supplement this. The “Ads Committee” and the “Prices Committee” will meet in October. We still do not have a full slate of Officers for next year’s ballot. Open are the President and 1st VP positions.
Rose Band reported on her National Convention attendance. Mrs. Baptiste was re-elected President. Fred Hatfield is still our Regional VP. (1 member = 1 Vote) was defeated as was Officers’ lodging and dues issues.
Helen Scott received an acknowledgement from Rep. Steve Scalise but no speaking date promise. Helen will attend a Mary Landrieu meeting in October.
Ed Brannan made appropriate comments on the need for Officer volunteers.
Rose Band reminded of the October Alzheimer Auction and November raffle of 2 Akers’ magnolia prints.
After lunch, the 50/50 drawing was won by Debby Chaudoir. She received $13 with the other $13 going to the Chapter.
Helen Scott introduced Ms. Elizabeth Zornman and Ms. Diana Angelle from the Volunteers of America. They told us of the programs and needs of the VOA and had member Ed Brannan tell of his recent work as a volunteer.
Adjournment at 1:15 PM on motion by Bobby Kullman, second by Rose Band, voice vote.
Happy Birthday to: Happy Anniversary to:

Adolfo Ramirez – 10/2 Mike and Sharron Bannon – 10/29
Edwin P. Brannan – 10/5
Bob Cruice – 10/06 (89th)

PLEASE PRAY for these members or Members’ loved ones who are ill or shut-in:
Helen Scott’s Mother; Helen Scott’s Family (death of her niece)
Bob Cruice
Harry and Inez Viosca; (death of Harry’s daughter Diane)

MEMBERS: Upon arriving at Benedict’s for the meeting and when you register and pay, please advise Yvonne Decker whether the people in your party are members or guests. If your spouse is with you and is not a registered member, please tell her you have a guest. This is necessary for the Secretary's records. Thank you for your assistance.

A NOTE FROM OUR ALZHEIMER’S COORDINATOR

The Alzheimer's raffle, this year, is for two beautifully matted and framed 18"X20", magnolia prints. The letter and tickets will be mailed at the end of August and I am hoping for your generous participation, as usual. Thank you, Rose Band

Note from Editor Gloria Cruice: If we don’t wish you a Happy Birthday in the Newsletter, it’s because we don’t have your birth date. Please email your birth date to me at gloriacruice@gmail.com. (The same for wedding anniversaries).
When you go to the meeting on Wednesday, please ask everylor: black">- - - - - - - - - - - -

**************            Our five-year-old son Mark couldn't wait to tell his father about the movie we had watched on television, "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea." The scenes with the submarine

Chapter 290 Monroe West Monroe Newsletter

National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association