MOUNT BALDY NEWS - NARFE



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VOLUME IV ISSUE 8 October 1, 2013



Follow us on Facebook Mt Baldy

'Tweet us after finding us on Twitter at NARFE Chapter 1497.'

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MT. BALDY CHAPTER #1497 MEETINGS WILL BE ON THE SECOND WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH AT COCO’S,

60 W. FOOTHILL BLVD, (corner of Euclid and Foothill Blvds.) UPLAND, CA, AT 1:00pm

October 9, 2013: Nominations for Chapter Officers; Speaker: Prentice Brand of Care More

Health Plan for ‘Medicare 101/Care More Health Plan’

November 13, 2013: Elections of Chapter Officers; Speaker: Joanne Jaworski from Dept. of

Aging & Adult Services on ‘Programs Available through the Senior Services’

December 11, 2013: Christmas Party, watch for details

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I would like to thank and express my appreciation to those members who have continued their membership in NARFE and our Mt. Baldy Chapter. It has been difficult for active and retired federal employees. The Chained Index if it passes will reduce our pensions by thousands of dollars and affect our quality of life as retirees. So please respond to the e-mails and articles in the NARFE Magazine that provide you information in contacting your local representative. The Chained Index must be defeated! In the 70’s the WEP/GPO was passed because no one took exception and simply fell asleep-so the law passed. The outcome over the past 30 years has deprived many federal retirees of the right to collect the full social security benefits to which they are entitled.

On a pleasing note, a group of us went to the movies at the Laemmle 5 Theater and saw “The Butler.” The movie is based on true events regarding the story of a White House butler who served eight American presidents over three decades. We socialized, had fun and enjoyed the senior admission price of $4.50 and the senior combo consisting of popcorn and drink for $4.00!

In addition, we are having Chapter Officer Elections in November, and all members are eligible to run for an office. Have no fear! Becoming a Chapter Officer is easy stuff and it also gives you bragging rights with your family and friends. So if you are free on the second Wednesday of each month, join us at our monthly meetings, socialize, laugh at my dry humor but most importantly, enjoy your retirement by being with friends and enjoy the great food at Coco’s.

MARCO RODRIGUEZ

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HEALTH PLAN PREMIUMS TO CLIMB 3.7%

From the Federal Times, Sep. 24, 2013

Health care premiums will climb 3.7 percent on average in 2014 for the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP), which covers 8.2 million people. The Office of Personnel Management announced the new plans and rates Tuesday. For dental coverage, the average rate increase is less than 1 percent, and rates for vision benefits will actually drop by 1.3 percent on average.

“For the third year in a row, OPM has kept the average premium increases for the FEHB Program under 4 percent, continuing our commitment to provide federal employees, annuitants and their families with the best possible coverage options,” said OPM Acting Director Elaine Kaplan in a statement.

OPM said there are no significant benefits changes for 2014. However, the number of plans will increase by more than 10 percent, for a total of 256.

The health care open season goes from Nov. 11 to Dec. 9.

The increase for this year was 3.4 percent.

Next year will mark the first time since at least 1980 that increases in the FEHBP’s premiums have stayed below 4 percent for three years in a row, according to John O’Brien, director of health care and insurance at OPM.

Colleen Kelley, president of the National Treasury Employees Union, said in a news release shortly after Tuesday’s announcement that any rise in the price of health insurance “places an undue burden on federal employees” in light of a three-year freeze on federal pay scales, unpaid furloughs and the looming threat of a partial government shutdown.

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TAKE CARE OF NARFE

PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL

SECURITY

Take care of NARFE, Attend Chapter meetings, become an officer and, contact your congress man or woman to protect your benefits. The path and future of NARFE are in your hands. Attend our meetings and let your voice be heard. It’s a great way to become involved, learn more about the inner workings of NARFE and have a good time along the way.

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Current Chapter Officers cannot do this alone or forever; we are getting older and new blood needs to learn the ropes, so that they can take charge, provide new energy and new ideas.

We hope to see you soon.

National Call Congress Week to oppose the Chained CPI

From Joseph A. Beaudoin NARFE National President: I want to congratulate CA for leading the country in the number of calls last week to Congress. Your 723 calls far exceeded every other state with FL being number two with less than 1/2 your calls. I wish the rest of NARFE would follow CA's lead. Congratulations

From George Ramirez Chairman, National

Legislation Committee, California State Federation of Chapters: I add my sincere thanks and congratulations to each of you and your respective NARFE District Legislation Teams to those of our NARFE National President for being the #1 NARFE Federation in the country with the highest number of recent calls to Congress.

Message from NARFE President

Joseph A. Beaudoin

“During NARFE’s Call Congress Week (September 16-21), 5,116 telephone calls were made to Capitol Hill using NARFE’s toll-free number. This is disappointing, to say the least. To the roughly 2,300 NARFE activists who spent time protecting their earned benefits, thank you! Messages via the Legislative Action Center opposing the Chained CPI continue to be sent, with the president and members of Congress on the receiving end of these emails. While the email messages are garnering more action than phone calls, the volume of the two is not enough to change the minds of lawmakers. NARFE cannot continue to rely on less than 10 percent of the membership to act on behalf of all our members.” Joseph A. Beaudoin, NARFE President

This is taking care of your financial future. Petitioning Congress is a Constitutional Right which we should use to protect our hard earned benefits. If you don’t call, the only voices that Congress will hear are those wanting to slash our benefits. Your standard of living will be reduced and you will be clipping more coupons to save money. Editor WAP.

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NARFE MT. BALDY

CHAPTER #1497

SEPTEMBER 11, 2013, MEETING

There were 16 members in attendance. There were neither new members nor first time attendees. There was 1 member returning, John Rodriguez, after a long absence.

TREASURER REPORT: Treasurer Lorraine

Brannen reported that we received a check for $250 from Scan for a 1 page ad in the newsletter for 1 year.

MEMBERSHIP REPORT: Second Vice-

President and Membership Chairman Stan

Dack gave the membership report. We have 163 members of which 152 are voting participants. We had no deaths. We lost 1 transfer-out. We have 2 prospective new members.

SUNSHINE & HOSPITALITY REPORT:

Martha Trimillos reported 2 cards were sent.

SOCIAL COMMITTEE REPORT:

Ernestine Abogado reported that they are planning decorations for the Christmas party.

LEGISLATIVE REPORT: President Marco

Rodriguez gave the Legislative Report. He noted that the Chained Consumer Price Index (CCPI) is still being considered in congress and is in President Obama’s proposed budget. If adopted, it would result in lower cost of living increases for employees and retirees. He requested that we all send a message to our congressional representative opposing the Chained CPI.

NEWSLETTER EDITOR REPORT: Will

Patton reported the September newsletters were e-mailed and sent by regular mail to members and associates and he asked that articles for the Oct newsletter be received by the last week in September.

SERVICE OFFICER REPORT: Joanne

Ghidotti reported no inquiries.

ALZHEIMER’S REPORT: Lorraine

Brannen reported that we had $125.00 in our checking account for the Alzheimer’s fund.

GUEST SPEAKER: First Vice-President

Bernice Minnis introduced the guest speaker Toni Levyssohn of Community Senior Services for ‘Community Connections’ Transportation Program. She spoke on The Community

Connections Transportation Reimbursement Program which provides a free transportation reimbursement for older adults and people with disabilities. She held a drawing for a Three-Day Emergency Kit which Ted Miller won.

President Rodriguez thanked Toni Levyssohn for her presentation.

NEW BUSINESS: There was no new business.

GOOD OF THE ORDER:

Alzheimer’s 50/50 drawing: Pot was $39.00; and winner Stan Dack donated his $19.50 back to the Alzheimer’s fund.

Marco and Maria Rodriguez Free Lunch: Bernice Minnis won the Free Lunch.

Newsletter Fund: John Rodriguez.won the drawing for a gift certificate for Handel’s Ice Cream. The fund collected $14.00

Bernice Minnis read a statement announcing that she would not seek election to any position in the Chapter and listing her many accomplishments in the last 10 years.

ADJOURN Time: 3:18 pm

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CHAPTER OFFICER ELECTIONS

Our Chapter 1497 will be taking nominations for 2014 Officers in October and discussing the offices available, and asking for everyone’s input. In November we will vote for those nominated and elect a new Executive Board. The following are the offices open for nomination by concerned members or the member themselves; every single one of us is capable of taking any position, as there is always a group to help you in any position. So please do not be bashful, the jobs are not hard, they do not take a great deal of time, just your willingness to do the best that you can. The new Officers will be inducted at our December Christmas party.

President; 1st Vice-President, Legislative chair; 2nd Vice-President, membership; 3rd Vice-President, Newsletter Editor; Secretary, Treasurer, Chaplain & Greeter and Sergeant-at-Arms.

You may direct any and all questions to

Stan Dack: Phone (909)628-8853 and email standack@ .

OUR OCTOBER SPEAKER PRENTICE BRAND

Prentice Brand works for CareMore Health

Plan in Upland, CA, which is a Medicare Advantage Plan offering benefits to individuals who are Medicare eligible (65+) and/or disabled.

He joined CareMore Health Plan in 2012 as a

Sales Representative in the Upland Community. Prior to getting into the health care industry, He worked in the Construction Industry for over 30 years as a General Contractor, remodeling and building custom homes. During that time he also worked on projects at some of the major studios like Warner Bros, Fox, Paramount, CBS, ABC and NBC. After the down turn in the construction industry over the past few years he decided to get into an industry that had a little more stability. Little did he know not only would he find a stable industry, but also a job that he would truly enjoy. Helping seniors and those who are disabled get a great health care plan that focuses on prevention, coordination of care and managing chronic conditions is very rewarding.

He will be doing a presentation on Medicare 101. Some of the topics that will be covered are how to qualify and the services that it covers. Also, he will be discussing the CareMore Health Plan; the special Needs Plans; the Care Centers and some of the Benefits that they offer.

August 24-28, 2014: National Convention,

Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando, FL

April 29 & 30, 2015: (Tentative date) CSFC Convention, San Luis Obispo, CA.

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DISTRICT III MEETING San Bernardino Oct 17, 2013: The Future of NARFE

The District III meeting on Thursday, Oct 17 will be at the Elk’s Lodge in San Bernardino. Registration will start at 8:30 am; the meeting will begin at 9, and be done by 3 pm. Topics will include Membership (primarily retention), chapter operations (meetings, newsletters, etc.) and the future of NARFE. ‘Old’ Bob Davidson, president of Palomar Chapter 455 in Escondido and a member of the Future of NARFE committee, will lead a brain-storming session on the topic, ‘So come armed for bear!’

Other invited dignitaries are: RVP VIII Helen Zajac, CSFC President Dick Ostergren and CSFC VP Dee Shallenberger.

The Cost of the event has yet to be determined. RSVP to Nick Schestople either at 951-303-3107 (there is an answering machine, be patient, it takes a while to pick up) or email: csfcdvp3@

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NARFE MEMBERSHIP

The National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association is the only membership organization solely dedicated to protecting and preserving the benefits of all federal workers and retirees. NARFE is your legislative voice and your information resource. Join now. We are NARFE. Join us!

Visit NARFE on the Web at .

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FLU SEASON APPROACHES

Flu activity most commonly peaks in the U.S. in January or February. However, seasonal flu activity can begin as early as October and continue to occur as late as May. Flu viruses are constantly changing so it's not unusual for new flu virus strains to appear each year.

CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older as the first and most important step in protecting against this serious disease. While there are many different flu viruses, the flu vaccine is designed to protect against the three main flu strains that research indicates will cause the most illness during the flu season. Getting the flu vaccine as soon as it becomes available each year is always a good idea and the protection you get from vaccination will last throughout the flu season.

Flu vaccines are offered in many locations, including doctor’s offices, clinics, health departments, pharmacies and college health centers, as well as by many employers, and even in some schools. Even if you don’t have a regular doctor or nurse, you can get a flu vaccine somewhere else, like a health department, pharmacy, urgent care clinic ETC.

In addition, you can take everyday preventive steps like staying away from sick people and washing your hands to reduce the spread of germs. If you are sick with flu, stay home from work or school to prevent spreading influenza to others.

(Medicare and Blue Cross/Blue Shield covered the cost of my vaccination. Editor)

2013-2014.htm

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CONGRESSIONAL

REPRESENTATIVES FOR MT BALDY

CHAPTER #1497

CD-27 JUDY CHU (D)

Pasadena 626 304 0110 D.C. 202 225-5464

CD-31 GARY G. MILLER (R)

Rancho Cucamonga 909-980-1492

D.C. 202-225-3201

CD-32 GRACE NAPOLITANO (D)

DEl Monte 626-350-0150 D.C .202-225-5256

CD-35 GLORIA NEGRETE McLeod (D)

Montclair 909-626-2054 D.C. 202-225-6161 CD-39 ED ROYCE (R)

Brea T (714) 255-0101 | (909) 420-0010

D.C. T (202) 225-4111 F (202) 226-0335

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ALZHEIMER’S SEPTEMBER STATEMENT

Chicago, July 5, 2013 - The Alzheimer's

Association is disappointed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) draft coverage decision on brain amyloid imaging, particularly given the clear, scientific consensus recommendations provided to CMS by the Association and the Society for Nuclear medicine and Molecular imaging (SNMMI) regarding appropriate, limited coverage, only in specific populations.

The Alzheimer's Association understands that CMS' evaluation of the impact of brain amyloid imaging on health outcomes is ongoing, however the needs of Alzheimer's community are acute. With 5 million Americans living with Alzheimer's and more than 15 million people providing care, the need to accelerate improved care and an early and accurate diagnosis today, when scientifically supported, is critical. Neither families directly impacted with the disease, nor our federal government, can afford to wait as much as seven years for a final decision about national coverage, as was the case with the National Oncology Patient Registry and the evaluation by CMS of FDG Pet coverage. Seven years ago, this brain amyloid imaging technology did not even exist. The timeframe at which CMS has conducted CED processes is wholly unsuited and unacceptable to both the pace of scientific and technological innovation in the Alzheimer's field, and more importantly, the rapidly increasing needs posed by the escalating Alzheimer's epidemic. If the federal government follows this example and timeline, it will hinder coverage of a badly needed, already FDA approved diagnostic tool in limited populations in which sufficient evidence indicates this technology has meaningful impact.

Understanding that this is a draft decision from CMS, and it is not yet final, the Alzheimer's Association will continue to engage the scientific and healthcare communities, as well as advocates, to educate CMS on behalf of our constituents about the benefits of coverage for brain amyloid imaging - in limited populations as defined by the scientificallydriven appropriate use criteria - as CMS develops a final decision.

As the largest scientifically-based patient advocacy group in the field of Alzheimer's and dementia, the Alzheimer's Association strongly supports early and accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. An early diagnosis has been found to lead to better outcomes and higher quality of life for people living with the disease and their families. We encourage CMS to have an open dialogue with all stakeholders in creating its final decision, so that the needs of all parties may be identified and taken into consideration.

Laura Wilcox

CSFC Alzheimer's Coordinator

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CHAPTER 1497 ELECTED OFFICERS

PRESIDENT, LEGISLATIVE CHAIR & PUBLICITY

MARCO N. RODRIGUEZ

(909)590-1849

Mnrodriguez770@

1st. VICE-PRESIDENT &

NARFE NET COORDINATOR

BERNICE MINNIS

(909) 860-0635 bernicem550@

2nd. VICE-PRESIDENT, MEMBERSHIP, TELEPHONE

COMMITTEE & NARFE PAC COORDINATOR

STANLEY DACK

(909)628-8853 standack@

3rd. VICE-PRESIDENT, SECRETARY, NEWSLETTER

EDITOR & PARLIAMENTARIAN

WILL PATTON

(909) 623-5700

Will91766@

TREASURER & ALZHEIMER’S CHAIRWOMAN LORRAINE BRANNEN

(909) 625-7603 lbrannen@ca.

CHAPLAIN & GREETER

CLARK MINNIS

(909) 860-0635 bernicem550@

SERGEANT-AT-ARMS & ASST NEWSLETTER

EDITOR & ASST HISTORIAN

EMIL TRIMILLOS

(909) 591-3455

Trimillos1938emil@

CHAPTER 1497 COMMITTEE CHAIRS HISTORIAN VACANT

SUNSHINE & TELEPHONE

MARTHA TRIMILLOS

(909) 591-3455

Trimillos1938emil@

SERVICE OFFICER

Joanne Ghidotti

(909) 628-8774 ghidottijoannec@

SOCIAL COMMITTEE CHAIRWOMAN

ERNESTINE ABOGADO

(626) 257-8011

DISTRICT III VICE-PRESIDENT

NICK SCHESTOPLE 951-303-3107 csfcdvp3@

NARFE CSFC PRESIDENT

RICHARD OSTERGREN

(559) 855-2970 mailto:rcoo@

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GOT DUES WITHHOLDING?

What is dues withholding? It is a dues-payment method that gives NARFE members (retirees) the option of having their annual NARFE membership dues deducted from their annuities on a monthly basis.

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How does it work? One-twelfth (1/12) of your total dues are automatically deducted from your monthly annuity. Your monthly deduction is determined by the following formula. (National dues ÷ 12) + (Chapter dues ÷ 12) = total monthly deduction Advantages:

Save 15% off your annual membership dues! Sign up your spouse and double your savings!

You will never get another dues reminder from us! Your monthly payment is affordable and convenient!

You may cancel your dues at any time!

Application process: It takes 60-90 days to process your application. Once the process is complete, you will receive a special membership card distinguishing you as a NARFE dues– withholding member.

Ask our Membership Chair Stan Dack for an application for Dues Withholding. Or call 800-627-3394 for more information.

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NARFE-PAC

Defending your Benefits

NARFE’s Political action committee is a separate and segregated fund that collects, administers and disburses the voluntary contributions of NARFE donors to congressional candidates on a bipartisan basis. NARFE-PAC’s goal is to harness the Association’s electoral muscle as a complement to members’ voting power, grassroots activism and professional advocacy. See the March NARFE magazine, page 25-27 for details on making contributions.

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MOUNT BALDY NEWS

HAPPY 37

TH

BIRTHDAY

NARFE CHAPTER #1497

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