WESTERN CURRENTS NEWSLETTER of the WESTERN ZONE of the NEW YORK STATE RETIRED TEACHERS’ASSOCIATION, INC. Volume 8, Number 2 December 2009 Howdy Pardner! “Howdy, pardner!” was the greeting every Western Zone delegate gave to all those attending the NYSRTA Annual Convention in October. It didn’t take long before everyone – Western Zone or from anywhere else in the State – was saying that to each other! (Continued on page 9) WZ Hosts NYSRTA Convention This year was Western Zone’s turn to host the NYSRTA Annual Workshops and Convention on October 13-16 at the Turning Stone Resort & Casino. Thanks to all the delegates and spouses, it was a tremendous success. (Continued on page 9) Western Zone Citation Awards We con- gratulate this year’s Western Zone Citation Award winners, Linda Schumacher, and Chuck Peszynski. Tom O’Shea, chair, explained that The Citation Awards Commit- tee identifies and recognizes members who have demonstrated excep- tional leadership, contributions, service and effort to both Western Zone and their local organizations and communities. Marilyn Tota, Charles Peszynski, and Maxine Dowler also served on the a Linda Schumacher and Chuck Peszynski President NYSRTA, John Olsen wards commit- tee this year. Western Z dicated to Anthony Vetrano l D. Vetr is contributions and service to our organization. one Conference De This year’s Annua Conference held at Salva- tore’s Italian Gardens in September was dedicated to Anthony Judy Klug,, Marilyn Tota, Betty Browne-Co-Chairs ano. An ac- tive member of NYSRTA, he has served as chairman of local committees and has been a delegate to several state conventions. Tony has been a past president, a leader, and an innovator. We thank him for h Marie and Anthony Vetrano
Transcript
WESTERN CURRENTS NEWSLETTER of the WESTERN ZONE of the NEW YORK STATE RETIRED TEACHERS’ASSOCIATION, INC.
Volume 8, Number 2 December 2009
Howdy Pardner!
“Howdy, pardner!” was the greeting every Western Zone delegate gave to all those attending the NYSRTA Annual Convention in October. It didn’t take long before everyone – Western Zone or from anywhere else in the State – was saying that to each other!
(Continued on page 9)
WZ Hosts NYSRTA Convention
This year was Western Zone’s turn to host the NYSRTA Annual Workshops and Convention on October 13-16 at the Turning Stone Resort & Casino. Thanks to all the delegates and spouses, it was a tremendous success.
(Continued on page 9)
Western Zone Citation AwardsWe con-
gratulate this year’s Western Zone Citation Award winners, LindaSchumacher, and Chuck Peszynski.
Tom O’Shea, chair, explained that The Citation Awards Commit-tee identifies and recognizes members who have demonstrated excep-tional leadership, contributions, service and effort to both Western Zone and their local organizations and communities. Marilyn Tota, Charles Peszynski, and Maxine Dowler also served on the a
Linda Schumacher and Chuck PeszynskiPresident NYSRTA, John Olsen
wards commit-tee this year.
Western Z dicated toAnthony Vetrano
l
D. Vetr
iscontributions and service to our organization.
one Conference De
Thisyear’s AnnuaConferenceheld at Salva-tore’s ItalianGardens in September was dedicated to AnthonyJudy Klug,, Marilyn Tota, Betty
Browne-Co-Chairs ano.An ac-
tive member of NYSRTA, he has served as chairman of local committees and has been a delegate to several state conventions. Tony has been a past president, a leader, and an innovator. We thank him for h
Marie and Anthony Vetrano
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage Paid
Buffalo, NY Permit No. 4574
Our Western Zone Spring-Get-Away will
take us to Branson—See page 6 for details
Western Zone – NYSRTA P.O. Box 922 Williamsville, NY 14231-0922
Western Zone Convention Delegates at NYSRTA Annual Convention.Think about attending next year.
DIRECTORS/AREA UNIT PRESIDENTS
AMHERST Joseph Podgorski
BUFFALO Alphonse G. Marabella
CATTARAUGUS EAST Gustave A. Napoleon
CATTARAUGUS WEST Judy Toner
CHAUTAUQUA SOUTH Vicki Smith
CHEEKTOWAGA Judith Liedike
EASTERN ERIE Doris R. Kirsch
GENESEE Rob Roy Griffith
KENMOREJoan Costello
LACKAWANNA Gerald A. Oczek
LAKE SHORE CENTRAL
LANCASTER/DEPEW Ronald A. Czapla
NIAGARA EAST Sandy Kelley
NIAGARA WEST Elizabeth Richardson
SPRINGVILLE GRIFFITH INSTITUTE
Audrey Seidel
WEST SENECA Marilyn K. Tota
WILLIAMSVILLE Judith A. Klug
SPOTLIGHT ON President
Kenmore Retired Educators’ AssociationJoan Costello, President
The Kenmore Retired Educators Association, KREA, has about 650 re-tired educators. Our newsletters date back to 1997. Our members’ primary focus is friendship and fellowship. Vol-unteer activities are mostly self-initiated and span areas including: P.R.I.S.M. – Retirees mentoring 22 High School Stu-dents to reach 134 Elementary Students in a summer reading enrichment pro-gram, Meals on Wheels, The City Mis-sion, Friends of the Night People, The Salvation Army, Goodwill, Hospice, helping fellow retirees, sup-porting Huntington’s Disease through contributions and an annual 3 mile walk, bringing our musicians to Nursing Homes to entertain, helping our children, watching our grandchildren, expanding our commitment to life-long learning through travel, research and study. Some of our members have written and published books. These authors and their books include: Carol Alt, Polar Bear;Jason Aronoff, Going, Going, Caught; Rosemarie Cardoso, TwoBiographies for Scribners Encyclopedia of American Lives and Art in the Civil War; Joan Costello, Math Aerobics for Children Ages 2-10, With Parent- Teacher Guide; Loren Keller, Four and Twenty Bluebeards; John Milner, Ramshacklebook – A Memoir; John Per-cy, Histories of the Town of Tonawanda; Dr. Robert Silsby, Set-tlement to Suburb; Kathy Sullivan, co-authored Chautauqua Institutes, 1874-1974; and William Wolfers, Railroad Life – The End of the Line. If you are interested in any of these books, you may call 716-689-9196. Our KREA has a luncheon the 3rd Friday in October and the 3rd Thursday in May to renew our associations, enjoy our own talent such as The Kenmore West H.S. Chorus, Kenmore East H.S. In-strumental Band, Dennis Upton from Sportz Comedy, and Jack Ci-viletto sings Sinatra. We pay tribute to our colleagues who have passed on and welcome our new retirees. KREA Officers serve at least two years. Our present officers are: President, Joan Costello; Vice President, Jean Haller; Secretary Karen Kolb; Treasurer, Jan Marino; and Consultant, Anita Blasiak.
WESTERN ZONE OFFICERS 2008-2009
Elected OfficersPresident Dr. Johannes I. Olsen 1st Vice President Charles T. Peszynski 2nd Vice President Doris Kirsch Treasurer Don E. Lawrence Recording Secretary Elaine L. Delisle Corresponding Secretary Linda J. Schumacher Membership Secretary Rob Roy Griffith Past President Anne G. Flansburg
Directors
Term Expiring 2010
Betty Browne Elaine L. Delisle Anne G. Flansburg Thomas A. Giambra Rhoda A. Harrington Elenora V.Hildebrand Robert J. Metz Johannes I. Olsen Charles T. Peszynski Leonard S. Sikora Robert W. Wallace Marie Gerace Zafron
Term Expiring 2011
Georgann Bemis Maxine F. Dowler Sharon I. Jackson Don E. Lawrence William D. Loockerman Ruthe L. Nemmer Stanley J. Nowak Mary V. O’Leary Theresa E. Pope Richard P. Vienne Charles J. Wuest
Term Expiring 2012
Ann M. Brighton Russell Gervasi Jacqueline L. Morana Barbara O’Shea Thomas W. O’Shea Loretta M. Peszynski Roy Plummer Shirley M. Plummer Paul J. Randall Dolores A. Scanlon Linda J. Schumacher
Mildred Blaisdell Barbara O’Shea Robert J. Metz Managing Editor Newsletter Advertising Layout Editor (716) 759-6215 (716) 433-8609 (716) 662-0734
A Bushel of Thanks from Basket Raffle Chair – Barbara O’Shea
My appreciation and gratitude are extended to all who contributed to the success of WZ Bas-ket Raffle at the NYSRTA Annual Convention. Your cooperation and outstanding effort reflected tremendous dedication to Western Zone. As a result, twenty-seven beautiful baskets were do-nated and far exceeded our goals. These baskets were on display throughout the convention for Chinese auction on the final night. Proceeds for this fund raiser totaled $1,630. Without the help of the committee comprising over thirty-five vol-unteers, it would not have been possible. It was a joy working with such a delightful energetic
team! Thanks a bushel for your help! (L.to R.)Barbara Malyak, Allie Withers, Elaine deLisle, Barbara O’Shea (Chair), Marilyn Tota
Committee Members: Alden R.T.A; Amherst--Joseph Podgorski, Marie Zafron; Buffalo--Alphonse Marabella, Jacqueline Morana, Russ Gervasi, Marie Vetrano, Loretta Peszynski; Cattaraugus West--Judy Toner; Chautauqua South-Janet Gilson, Georgann Bemis, Allie Withers; Erie East--Doris Kirsch, Barbara Malyak, Elaine deLisle, Bill Kirsch; Genesee--Rob Roy Griffith; Lackawanna--Gerald Oczek; Lake Shore--Betty Browne; Lancaster--Phyllis Dickinson, Dottie Vienne, Dick Vienne, Ron Czapla; Niagara East--Julie Goelz, Tom O’Shea; Niagara West--Sharon Jackson; Springville-Griffith--Linda Schumacher, Audrey Seidel; West Seneca--Marilyn Tota; Williams-ville--Judy Klug, Ruthe Nemmer.
New York State Retired Teachers Association Holiday Gift Package
Three 8 – Hour lift ticketsTwo Colden Tubing Company PassesA $5.00 dinner voucher
VALUE $190……………….………………SALE PRICE $100 Ask about additional specials: Lift Tickets, Gift Cards, Learn to Ski Packages
ContactChuck Dickhut
Kissing Bridge Group Sales Office 592-4963 Cell 954-3406
At this year’s Annual Con-ference, three members, Janet Gilson, Anthony D. Vetrano, and Charles E. Whitmer became Honorary Directors. We appre-ciate their roles as mentors for newer Board members and thank them for their years of service.
Janet Gilson and Anthony Vetrano Charles E. Whitmer
Health Insurance Currently, there are six plans available. Three of these include the Active Anytime Flexible Fit-
ness incentive that offers a bonus for participation in certain gym/wellness programs. ness incentive that offers a bonus for participation in certain gym/wellness programs. Some health care plans allow educators to include their spouse in their coverage plan. However,
upon the death of educator, the spouse is no longer covered. Western Zone enables the spouse to become or stay enrolled in the plan and affords continued coverage. This is an important considera-tion for all retirees.
Some health care plans allow educators to include their spouse in their coverage plan. However, upon the death of educator, the spouse is no longer covered. Western Zone enables the spouse to become or stay enrolled in the plan and affords continued coverage. This is an important considera-tion for all retirees.
UNIVERA is the health insurance carrier of WZ. Information seminars are planned each year and committee members meet with UNIVERA to discuss programs and rates. For additional infor-mation, contact Pam Styn at 716-836-7013 and/or check our website: www.wzretiredteachers.org for current rates and plans.
UNIVERA is the health insurance carrier of WZ. Information seminars are planned each year and committee members meet with UNIVERA to discuss programs and rates. For additional infor-mation, contact Pam Styn at 716-836-7013 and/or check our website: www.wzretiredteachers.org for current rates and plans.
Stay informed via our web sites: www.wzretiredteachers.org and www.nysrta.org
Western Zone Acquires Sponsors for the Annual Meeting at Turning Stone
When we learned that it was Western Zone's turn to host the annual convention, the committee chairman agreed that it was Ok to raise some funds. Nine years ago we were able to raise about $600. Doris Kirsch, VP of WZ and Janice Weitz, past Pres. of Eastern Erie, now member too of Southern Chautauqua, went to work.
Board members were asked to give the name and address of a contact at any place of business that they used and also from manu-facturers, sports centers, etc. By July first, 56 letters fashioned by Janice and typed and mailed by Doris, hit the post offices. There were also face to face requests.
The day after the letters were sent out, Janice received a letter with a $500 check in it for WZ to use from Hilltop Automotive in Strykersville, a business located out of WZ, and from Doris and her husband Bill's nephew and family. It did not hurt that Janice had also been their English teach-er. We were off and running.
Canterbury Woods and Amberleigh, retirement centers, each gave us $250; Wells Fargo/Wachovia Advisors contributed another $250. l and M, advisors for finances, sent $250; our Dental Pay gave $200, and then Univera came on board with $1,000 to help us with our hosting.
CutCo Cutlery in Olean told us that they did not underwrite sponsorships but would be glad to send along an item worth $142 for us to use as a fundraiser. Of course it was accepted.
We also had two replies from sports teams. The Bills declined, but the Bisons sent vouchers for four for April 2010 games. These and the cutlery are expected to be auctioned off at a WZ meeting.
We would like to thank all of those who helped us reach sponsors. We hope that you will use these sponsors, or if you are in contact, thank them personally for their help.
Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Assisted Living Apartments
Residential Apartment Homes There is no entrance fee at The GreenFields
Our Mission is to provide for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of the individuals we serve, in a Christian environment.
www.NiagaraLutheran.org 886-4377, ext. 365
NEVER STOP LEARNING.
Your greatest lessons changed count less l ives. And the lessons we’ve learned have taught us that we live longer and healthier when we keep on learning, growing and challenging ourselves. That’s what Pinegrove Estates is all about. For adults over 62, this except ional l i festylecommunity in Lockport believes in you the same wayyou believed in your students. And it’s about time.
Free DVD & LuncheonCall 478-0279 or 800-475-6035 to find out how to get your DVD,
“10 Ways to Age Successfully” by Dr. Roger Landryand RSVP to join us for a Lunch & Learn.
This offering has been approved by the At torney General of the State of New York. The complete offering terms are in an offering plan avai lable from the Sponsor. CR 08-0003.
www.PinegroveEstates.com
Howdy Partner (Continued from page 1)
It gave a nice, friendly, warm feeling to a meeting that heard some great speakers–Judge Tommy Webb and NYS Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli among them. We listened to and acted on the reports of the various officers and committee chairs, elected new leaders, and conducted all the other business of the Association.
Our WZ delegation led–and won!--the floor fight to retain separate chairs for State Legislation and Federal Legislation. Al Marabella, President of the Buffalo Unit, was then elected to be the new Vice-President for Federal Legislation. We look to Al to provide excellent leadership and renewed energy to the committee that concerns itself with national issues affecting retired educators and that works to inform and influence legislators and others on behalf of retirees.
About fifty of our Western Zone members served as delegates, and all committed themselves to making our Zone’s hosting of the convention such a very successful undertaking. As always, good leadership is the key, and Judy Klug did a superb job as Chair of the Host Committee! Many others were an essential part of the effort, too, and we thank and congratulate them all!
The State Convention takes place every October. Make plans now to attend at least a portion of the convention, see the delegates in action, and participate in the discussions and activities. If you would like to be a Delegate, or if you would be available to be an Alternate, let your Unit President know. We select the Delegates and Alternates in June.
As we’ve said before, our Western Zone exists for one purpose only – to benefit retired educators. Be sure to let us know how we can best help you!
Western Zone Hosts (Continued from page 1)
The western theme was evident in the cowboy hats, neck scarves, jeans, and badges worn by everyone from WZ. This made it easy for other attendees to identify us to ask for help in finding their way around. The greeters, chaired by Shirley & Roy Plummer, were especially helpful on Tuesday and Wednesday when people arrived. Many of the delegates from other zones got into the spirit at the Wednesday evening cocktail party. We saw a dance hall girl, a gambler, many cowboys, and our own state president, Ron Wilson, was a miner. (I thought he looked like Gabby Hayes).
The goodie bags were well received thanks to Al Marabella and his helpers. The basket raffle was a huge success. Barbara O’Shea did a great job coordinating it. The baskets were not only varied in theme but very beautiful. A special thanks to the units and those who contributed a basket. The split raffles at dinner were also successful, thanks to Sharon Jackson and her group of sellers/tellers. The signature gift of a padded vinyl portfolio was given to each delegate by Doris Kirsch and her assistants.
The centerpieces which were given to a lucky winner at each table were provided by: Tuesday - Cattaraugus West RTA - African Violets on a placemat designed by Carson Waterman, a well-known Seneca artist; Wednesday - Covered Wagons made by Rob Roy Griffith of the Genesee RTA; Thursday - Chautauqua South RTA - a bottle of Chautauqua County wine and 2 wine glasses.
Through the efforts of Janice Weitz and Doris Kirsch we were very successful in obtaining support from the various corporations with which we do business.
We offer special thanks to Dr. John Olsen, our zone president, who was a great help with his constant encouragement and advice as we made our way in planning for the convention.
The Host Committee chairs would like to thank everyone who helped make this a very enjoyable, successful venture. Through the cooperation of everyone there we showed all in attendance that Western Zone was not only up to the challenge, but we met it!
Federal Legislation
Some of the health care improvements sought by NYSRTA may be possible soon. Those improvements include making health care af-fordable, closing the donut hole in the Medicare Part D program, and including money in Medicare and Medicaid for Home Services to the elderly that would enable them to remain in their home as opposed to nursing faciliti
Al Marabella, chair
es.The Social Security outlook for 2010 and 2011 does not include an
increase in benefits. Some may see an increase in Part B cost from $96.40 to $119 and ultimately to $123. Premiums for drug coverage are expected to increase, also.
State Legislation
In March, 2009, the committee met to set up the 2009 Campaign Card. The One-year Extender for Health Insurance Protection for Educational Retirees bill and a bill seeking an amendment to the In-surance Law to provide for Third Party Notification of Cancellation of a Senior Citizen’s Health Insurance were displayed prominently on the front of the card. The good news is that the One-year Extender was passed and will expire on May 15, 2010. It is doubtful that any-thing will be done with the Third Party Notification bill this year.
The back of the Campaign Card included COLA, Tier One Rein-statement and Military Service Credit bills. We reminded legislators that these issues were still important to us.
We urged passage of a COLA bill sponsored by the NYS Teachers’ Retirement System which would extend a minimum retirement benefit to educators retired before 06/01/1980.
Sixteen W
Judy Klug, chair
Z members volunteered to visit their state legislators during our Local Lobby ef-fort in April. Al Marabella, Tom O’Shea and Judy Klug lobbied key legislators in May. Any WZ member who is interested in acting as a Local Lobbyist in 2010 should contact Judy Klug for information.
Convention Updates: Resolutions Committee
Three resolutions, two of which were proposed by Western Zone, were approved at the NYSRTA Convention held in October at Turning Stone.
Theresa Pope, Chair
The proposed resolutions were Elimination of Tax Evasion (LI), Eli-mination of Elder Abuse (LI and WZ), and Protection of Electronic Medi-cal Information (WZ).
Doris Kirsch and Jacqueline Morana served on the WZ Resolutions Committee, also.
NYSRTA Member Benefit Discounted Long-Term Care Insurance
From John Hancock Life Insurance Company
No one likes to think about needinglong term care. But the facts may surprise you:
It can happen when you are young: 40% of people who need long term care services areadults between the ages of 18 and 64.
The national average nursing home cost per year is presently $55,000.
The projected annual cost of nursing home care in 2030 is $190,000.
1. America’s Health Insurance Plans, “A Guide to Long Term Care Insurance,” 2004.2. United States General Accounting Office, Testimony Before Committee on Finance, U.S. Senate, March 2001.3. American Council of Life Insurers, 2000.Longterm care insurance is underwritten by JohnHancockLife Insurance Company, Boston, MA 02117. 105 06132008 15665788
New York State Retired
Teachers’ Association
Members!!
Founders Fund Makes a Difference in WZ Community Service
The Founders’ Fund began as a Home Fund to build a retirement home for retired teachers in Western New York. Over the years, the cost to con-struct such a home became prohibitive. As a result, the Home Fund was changed to the Founders’ Fund to serve the elderly in charitable and educa-tional ways. Using the interest, the Founders’ Fund supports Meals on Wheels and our needy teachers through the Western Zone President’s Fund, and the Network for Aging of Western New York.
Last year, the Western Zone of NYSRTA distributed over $8000 to over thirty Meals on Wheels units in Western New York. Many of our re-tired teachers volunteer to deliver these meals.
Western Zone New York State Retired Tea
Len Sikora, Chair
chers can be proud of their donation of time and money.
Friendly Service
The Friendly Service Committee has conducted a number of projects this year for the members of the Western Zone. Thanksgiving cards were sent to retired educators 97 and older. In addition, nearly 900 holiday and Valentine Day cards were sent to members 90 and older. Loretta Peszynski and Jackie Morana deserve a special thanks for help on these projects. Other members of the committee are Georgann Bemis, Ronald Czapla, Linda Heppler, Ruthe Nemmer, Linda Schumacher and Richard Vienne.
Tom Giambra, chair
Membership
Numbers count when we lobby in Albany. It’s important to add new mem-bers to our organization. How can we do that?
1. Pay our dues.2. Recruit new members 3. Encourage all who are Unit members to become State members and
thereby Zone members as well. Anne Flansburg and Jacqueline Morana have been especially helpful this
year both in recruiting new members and getting lists of new retirees. Numbers count. Help us increase ours.
Rob Roy Griffith
WZ Spring Trip
Our Western Zone Spring-Get-Away will take us to Branson, MO for a 7 days, 6 nights Ozark Mountain Tour. It is planned for April 25th through May 1st of 2010. The trip will be less than $799 total, including bus transportation. Additional details will follow when final arrange-ments are made. If interested, contact Anne Flansburg at 626-9083. Friends and family are in-vited!
“I am proud to say that my hometown is like a patchwork quilt, comprised of all sorts of interesting people, places and celebrations, woven together into something quite special. WNY is like a big city hidden inside a small town, and I liken Amberleigh with the same feel. You’ll notice this “neighborhood” feeling as you enter ... they enjoy diverse ethnic and religious heritage, have a passion for our sports teams and look forward to marking holidays and celebrating the changes of seasons.
I invite you to celebrate with Amberleigh ...
Welcome to our neighborhood!”
Call the Amberleigh
Marketing Department
for your FREE TOUR!
(716) 689-4555
A CAPITAL SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY
Month to Month Rental Spacious 1 & 2 bedroom apartments Warm & welcoming common areas
2330 Maple Road • Williamsville • (716) 689-4555 • www.capitalsenior.com
Susan Hunt National Television
& Radio Host
Founders Fund Makes a Difference in WZ Community Service
The Founders’ Fund began as a Home Fund to build a retirement home for retired teachers in Western New York. Over the years, the cost to con-struct such a home became prohibitive. As a result, the Home Fund was changed to the Founders’ Fund to serve the elderly in charitable and educa-tional ways. Using the interest, the Founders’ Fund supports Meals on Wheels and our needy teachers through the Western Zone President’s Fund, and the Network for Aging of Western New York.
Last year, the Western Zone of NYSRTA distributed over $8000 to over thirty Meals on Wheels units in Western New York. Many of our re-tired teachers volunteer to deliver these meals.
Western Zone New York State Retired Tea
Len Sikora, Chair
chers can be proud of their donation of time and money.
Friendly Service
The Friendly Service Committee has conducted a number of projects this year for the members of the Western Zone. Thanksgiving cards were sent to retired educators 97 and older. In addition, nearly 900 holiday and Valentine Day cards were sent to members 90 and older. Loretta Peszynski and Jackie Morana deserve a special thanks for help on these projects. Other members of the committee are Georgann Bemis, Ronald Czapla, Linda Heppler, Ruthe Nemmer, Linda Schumacher and Richard Vienne.
Tom Giambra, chair
Membership
Numbers count when we lobby in Albany. It’s important to add new mem-bers to our organization. How can we do that?
1. Pay our dues.2. Recruit new members 3. Encourage all who are Unit members to become State members and
thereby Zone members as well. Anne Flansburg and Jacqueline Morana have been especially helpful this
year both in recruiting new members and getting lists of new retirees. Numbers count. Help us increase ours.
Rob Roy Griffith
WZ Spring Trip
Our Western Zone Spring-Get-Away will take us to Branson, MO for a 7 days, 6 nights Ozark Mountain Tour. It is planned for April 25th through May 1st of 2010. The trip will be less than $799 total, including bus transportation. Additional details will follow when final arrange-ments are made. If interested, contact Anne Flansburg at 626-9083. Friends and family are in-vited!
“I am proud to say that my hometown is like a patchwork quilt, comprised of all sorts of interesting people, places and celebrations, woven together into something quite special. WNY is like a big city hidden inside a small town, and I liken Amberleigh with the same feel. You’ll notice this “neighborhood” feeling as you enter ... they enjoy diverse ethnic and religious heritage, have a passion for our sports teams and look forward to marking holidays and celebrating the changes of seasons.
I invite you to celebrate with Amberleigh ...
Welcome to our neighborhood!”
Call the Amberleigh
Marketing Department
for your FREE TOUR!
(716) 689-4555
A CAPITAL SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY
Month to Month Rental Spacious 1 & 2 bedroom apartments Warm & welcoming common areas
2330 Maple Road • Williamsville • (716) 689-4555 • www.capitalsenior.com
Susan Hunt National Television
& Radio Host
Federal Legislation
Some of the health care improvements sought by NYSRTA may be possible soon. Those improvements include making health care af-fordable, closing the donut hole in the Medicare Part D program, and including money in Medicare and Medicaid for Home Services to the elderly that would enable them to remain in their home as opposed to nursing faciliti
Al Marabella, chair
es.The Social Security outlook for 2010 and 2011 does not include an
increase in benefits. Some may see an increase in Part B cost from $96.40 to $119 and ultimately to $123. Premiums for drug coverage are expected to increase, also.
State Legislation
In March, 2009, the committee met to set up the 2009 Campaign Card. The One-year Extender for Health Insurance Protection for Educational Retirees bill and a bill seeking an amendment to the In-surance Law to provide for Third Party Notification of Cancellation of a Senior Citizen’s Health Insurance were displayed prominently on the front of the card. The good news is that the One-year Extender was passed and will expire on May 15, 2010. It is doubtful that any-thing will be done with the Third Party Notification bill this year.
The back of the Campaign Card included COLA, Tier One Rein-statement and Military Service Credit bills. We reminded legislators that these issues were still important to us.
We urged passage of a COLA bill sponsored by the NYS Teachers’ Retirement System which would extend a minimum retirement benefit to educators retired before 06/01/1980.
Sixteen W
Judy Klug, chair
Z members volunteered to visit their state legislators during our Local Lobby ef-fort in April. Al Marabella, Tom O’Shea and Judy Klug lobbied key legislators in May. Any WZ member who is interested in acting as a Local Lobbyist in 2010 should contact Judy Klug for information.
Convention Updates: Resolutions Committee
Three resolutions, two of which were proposed by Western Zone, were approved at the NYSRTA Convention held in October at Turning Stone.
Theresa Pope, Chair
The proposed resolutions were Elimination of Tax Evasion (LI), Eli-mination of Elder Abuse (LI and WZ), and Protection of Electronic Medi-cal Information (WZ).
Doris Kirsch and Jacqueline Morana served on the WZ Resolutions Committee, also.
NYSRTA Member Benefit Discounted Long-Term Care Insurance
From John Hancock Life Insurance Company
No one likes to think about needinglong term care. But the facts may surprise you:
It can happen when you are young: 40% of people who need long term care services areadults between the ages of 18 and 64.
The national average nursing home cost per year is presently $55,000.
The projected annual cost of nursing home care in 2030 is $190,000.
1. America’s Health Insurance Plans, “A Guide to Long Term Care Insurance,” 2004.2. United States General Accounting Office, Testimony Before Committee on Finance, U.S. Senate, March 2001.3. American Council of Life Insurers, 2000.Longterm care insurance is underwritten by JohnHancockLife Insurance Company, Boston, MA 02117. 105 06132008 15665788
New York State Retired
Teachers’ Association
Members!!
NEVER STOP LEARNING.
Your greatest lessons changed count less l ives. And the lessons we’ve learned have taught us that we live longer and healthier when we keep on learning, growing and challenging ourselves. That’s what Pinegrove Estates is all about. For adults over 62, this except ional l i festylecommunity in Lockport believes in you the same wayyou believed in your students. And it’s about time.
Free DVD & LuncheonCall 478-0279 or 800-475-6035 to find out how to get your DVD,
“10 Ways to Age Successfully” by Dr. Roger Landryand RSVP to join us for a Lunch & Learn.
This offering has been approved by the At torney General of the State of New York. The complete offering terms are in an offering plan avai lable from the Sponsor. CR 08-0003.
www.PinegroveEstates.com
Howdy Partner (Continued from page 1)
It gave a nice, friendly, warm feeling to a meeting that heard some great speakers–Judge Tommy Webb and NYS Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli among them. We listened to and acted on the reports of the various officers and committee chairs, elected new leaders, and conducted all the other business of the Association.
Our WZ delegation led–and won!--the floor fight to retain separate chairs for State Legislation and Federal Legislation. Al Marabella, President of the Buffalo Unit, was then elected to be the new Vice-President for Federal Legislation. We look to Al to provide excellent leadership and renewed energy to the committee that concerns itself with national issues affecting retired educators and that works to inform and influence legislators and others on behalf of retirees.
About fifty of our Western Zone members served as delegates, and all committed themselves to making our Zone’s hosting of the convention such a very successful undertaking. As always, good leadership is the key, and Judy Klug did a superb job as Chair of the Host Committee! Many others were an essential part of the effort, too, and we thank and congratulate them all!
The State Convention takes place every October. Make plans now to attend at least a portion of the convention, see the delegates in action, and participate in the discussions and activities. If you would like to be a Delegate, or if you would be available to be an Alternate, let your Unit President know. We select the Delegates and Alternates in June.
As we’ve said before, our Western Zone exists for one purpose only – to benefit retired educators. Be sure to let us know how we can best help you!
Western Zone Hosts (Continued from page 1)
The western theme was evident in the cowboy hats, neck scarves, jeans, and badges worn by everyone from WZ. This made it easy for other attendees to identify us to ask for help in finding their way around. The greeters, chaired by Shirley & Roy Plummer, were especially helpful on Tuesday and Wednesday when people arrived. Many of the delegates from other zones got into the spirit at the Wednesday evening cocktail party. We saw a dance hall girl, a gambler, many cowboys, and our own state president, Ron Wilson, was a miner. (I thought he looked like Gabby Hayes).
The goodie bags were well received thanks to Al Marabella and his helpers. The basket raffle was a huge success. Barbara O’Shea did a great job coordinating it. The baskets were not only varied in theme but very beautiful. A special thanks to the units and those who contributed a basket. The split raffles at dinner were also successful, thanks to Sharon Jackson and her group of sellers/tellers. The signature gift of a padded vinyl portfolio was given to each delegate by Doris Kirsch and her assistants.
The centerpieces which were given to a lucky winner at each table were provided by: Tuesday - Cattaraugus West RTA - African Violets on a placemat designed by Carson Waterman, a well-known Seneca artist; Wednesday - Covered Wagons made by Rob Roy Griffith of the Genesee RTA; Thursday - Chautauqua South RTA - a bottle of Chautauqua County wine and 2 wine glasses.
Through the efforts of Janice Weitz and Doris Kirsch we were very successful in obtaining support from the various corporations with which we do business.
We offer special thanks to Dr. John Olsen, our zone president, who was a great help with his constant encouragement and advice as we made our way in planning for the convention.
The Host Committee chairs would like to thank everyone who helped make this a very enjoyable, successful venture. Through the cooperation of everyone there we showed all in attendance that Western Zone was not only up to the challenge, but we met it!
A Tribute to Honorary Directors
At this year’s Annual Con-ference, three members, Janet Gilson, Anthony D. Vetrano, and Charles E. Whitmer became Honorary Directors. We appre-ciate their roles as mentors for newer Board members and thank them for their years of service.
Janet Gilson and Anthony Vetrano Charles E. Whitmer
Health Insurance Currently, there are six plans available. Three of these include the Active Anytime Flexible Fit-
ness incentive that offers a bonus for participation in certain gym/wellness programs. ness incentive that offers a bonus for participation in certain gym/wellness programs. Some health care plans allow educators to include their spouse in their coverage plan. However,
upon the death of educator, the spouse is no longer covered. Western Zone enables the spouse to become or stay enrolled in the plan and affords continued coverage. This is an important considera-tion for all retirees.
Some health care plans allow educators to include their spouse in their coverage plan. However, upon the death of educator, the spouse is no longer covered. Western Zone enables the spouse to become or stay enrolled in the plan and affords continued coverage. This is an important considera-tion for all retirees.
UNIVERA is the health insurance carrier of WZ. Information seminars are planned each year and committee members meet with UNIVERA to discuss programs and rates. For additional infor-mation, contact Pam Styn at 716-836-7013 and/or check our website: www.wzretiredteachers.org for current rates and plans.
UNIVERA is the health insurance carrier of WZ. Information seminars are planned each year and committee members meet with UNIVERA to discuss programs and rates. For additional infor-mation, contact Pam Styn at 716-836-7013 and/or check our website: www.wzretiredteachers.org for current rates and plans.
Stay informed via our web sites: www.wzretiredteachers.org and www.nysrta.org
Western Zone Acquires Sponsors for the Annual Meeting at Turning Stone
When we learned that it was Western Zone's turn to host the annual convention, the committee chairman agreed that it was Ok to raise some funds. Nine years ago we were able to raise about $600. Doris Kirsch, VP of WZ and Janice Weitz, past Pres. of Eastern Erie, now member too of Southern Chautauqua, went to work.
Board members were asked to give the name and address of a contact at any place of business that they used and also from manu-facturers, sports centers, etc. By July first, 56 letters fashioned by Janice and typed and mailed by Doris, hit the post offices. There were also face to face requests.
The day after the letters were sent out, Janice received a letter with a $500 check in it for WZ to use from Hilltop Automotive in Strykersville, a business located out of WZ, and from Doris and her husband Bill's nephew and family. It did not hurt that Janice had also been their English teach-er. We were off and running.
Canterbury Woods and Amberleigh, retirement centers, each gave us $250; Wells Fargo/Wachovia Advisors contributed another $250. l and M, advisors for finances, sent $250; our Dental Pay gave $200, and then Univera came on board with $1,000 to help us with our hosting.
CutCo Cutlery in Olean told us that they did not underwrite sponsorships but would be glad to send along an item worth $142 for us to use as a fundraiser. Of course it was accepted.
We also had two replies from sports teams. The Bills declined, but the Bisons sent vouchers for four for April 2010 games. These and the cutlery are expected to be auctioned off at a WZ meeting.
We would like to thank all of those who helped us reach sponsors. We hope that you will use these sponsors, or if you are in contact, thank them personally for their help.
Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Assisted Living Apartments
Residential Apartment Homes There is no entrance fee at The GreenFields
Our Mission is to provide for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of the individuals we serve, in a Christian environment.
www.NiagaraLutheran.org 886-4377, ext. 365
DIRECTORS/AREA UNIT PRESIDENTS
AMHERST Joseph Podgorski
BUFFALO Alphonse G. Marabella
CATTARAUGUS EAST Gustave A. Napoleon
CATTARAUGUS WEST Judy Toner
CHAUTAUQUA SOUTH Vicki Smith
CHEEKTOWAGA Judith Liedike
EASTERN ERIE Doris R. Kirsch
GENESEE Rob Roy Griffith
KENMOREJoan Costello
LACKAWANNA Gerald A. Oczek
LAKE SHORE CENTRAL
LANCASTER/DEPEW Ronald A. Czapla
NIAGARA EAST Sandy Kelley
NIAGARA WEST Elizabeth Richardson
SPRINGVILLE GRIFFITH INSTITUTE
Audrey Seidel
WEST SENECA Marilyn K. Tota
WILLIAMSVILLE Judith A. Klug
SPOTLIGHT ON President
Kenmore Retired Educators’ AssociationJoan Costello, President
The Kenmore Retired Educators Association, KREA, has about 650 re-tired educators. Our newsletters date back to 1997. Our members’ primary focus is friendship and fellowship. Vol-unteer activities are mostly self-initiated and span areas including: P.R.I.S.M. – Retirees mentoring 22 High School Stu-dents to reach 134 Elementary Students in a summer reading enrichment pro-gram, Meals on Wheels, The City Mis-sion, Friends of the Night People, The Salvation Army, Goodwill, Hospice, helping fellow retirees, sup-porting Huntington’s Disease through contributions and an annual 3 mile walk, bringing our musicians to Nursing Homes to entertain, helping our children, watching our grandchildren, expanding our commitment to life-long learning through travel, research and study. Some of our members have written and published books. These authors and their books include: Carol Alt, Polar Bear;Jason Aronoff, Going, Going, Caught; Rosemarie Cardoso, TwoBiographies for Scribners Encyclopedia of American Lives and Art in the Civil War; Joan Costello, Math Aerobics for Children Ages 2-10, With Parent- Teacher Guide; Loren Keller, Four and Twenty Bluebeards; John Milner, Ramshacklebook – A Memoir; John Per-cy, Histories of the Town of Tonawanda; Dr. Robert Silsby, Set-tlement to Suburb; Kathy Sullivan, co-authored Chautauqua Institutes, 1874-1974; and William Wolfers, Railroad Life – The End of the Line. If you are interested in any of these books, you may call 716-689-9196. Our KREA has a luncheon the 3rd Friday in October and the 3rd Thursday in May to renew our associations, enjoy our own talent such as The Kenmore West H.S. Chorus, Kenmore East H.S. In-strumental Band, Dennis Upton from Sportz Comedy, and Jack Ci-viletto sings Sinatra. We pay tribute to our colleagues who have passed on and welcome our new retirees. KREA Officers serve at least two years. Our present officers are: President, Joan Costello; Vice President, Jean Haller; Secretary Karen Kolb; Treasurer, Jan Marino; and Consultant, Anita Blasiak.
WESTERN ZONE OFFICERS 2008-2009
Elected OfficersPresident Dr. Johannes I. Olsen 1st Vice President Charles T. Peszynski 2nd Vice President Doris Kirsch Treasurer Don E. Lawrence Recording Secretary Elaine L. Delisle Corresponding Secretary Linda J. Schumacher Membership Secretary Rob Roy Griffith Past President Anne G. Flansburg
Directors
Term Expiring 2010
Betty Browne Elaine L. Delisle Anne G. Flansburg Thomas A. Giambra Rhoda A. Harrington Elenora V.Hildebrand Robert J. Metz Johannes I. Olsen Charles T. Peszynski Leonard S. Sikora Robert W. Wallace Marie Gerace Zafron
Term Expiring 2011
Georgann Bemis Maxine F. Dowler Sharon I. Jackson Don E. Lawrence William D. Loockerman Ruthe L. Nemmer Stanley J. Nowak Mary V. O’Leary Theresa E. Pope Richard P. Vienne Charles J. Wuest
Term Expiring 2012
Ann M. Brighton Russell Gervasi Jacqueline L. Morana Barbara O’Shea Thomas W. O’Shea Loretta M. Peszynski Roy Plummer Shirley M. Plummer Paul J. Randall Dolores A. Scanlon Linda J. Schumacher
Mildred Blaisdell Barbara O’Shea Robert J. Metz Managing Editor Newsletter Advertising Layout Editor (716) 759-6215 (716) 433-8609 (716) 662-0734
A Bushel of Thanks from Basket Raffle Chair – Barbara O’Shea
My appreciation and gratitude are extended to all who contributed to the success of WZ Bas-ket Raffle at the NYSRTA Annual Convention. Your cooperation and outstanding effort reflected tremendous dedication to Western Zone. As a result, twenty-seven beautiful baskets were do-nated and far exceeded our goals. These baskets were on display throughout the convention for Chinese auction on the final night. Proceeds for this fund raiser totaled $1,630. Without the help of the committee comprising over thirty-five vol-unteers, it would not have been possible. It was a joy working with such a delightful energetic
team! Thanks a bushel for your help! (L.to R.)Barbara Malyak, Allie Withers, Elaine deLisle, Barbara O’Shea (Chair), Marilyn Tota
Committee Members: Alden R.T.A; Amherst--Joseph Podgorski, Marie Zafron; Buffalo--Alphonse Marabella, Jacqueline Morana, Russ Gervasi, Marie Vetrano, Loretta Peszynski; Cattaraugus West--Judy Toner; Chautauqua South-Janet Gilson, Georgann Bemis, Allie Withers; Erie East--Doris Kirsch, Barbara Malyak, Elaine deLisle, Bill Kirsch; Genesee--Rob Roy Griffith; Lackawanna--Gerald Oczek; Lake Shore--Betty Browne; Lancaster--Phyllis Dickinson, Dottie Vienne, Dick Vienne, Ron Czapla; Niagara East--Julie Goelz, Tom O’Shea; Niagara West--Sharon Jackson; Springville-Griffith--Linda Schumacher, Audrey Seidel; West Seneca--Marilyn Tota; Williams-ville--Judy Klug, Ruthe Nemmer.
New York State Retired Teachers Association Holiday Gift Package
Three 8 – Hour lift ticketsTwo Colden Tubing Company PassesA $5.00 dinner voucher
VALUE $190……………….………………SALE PRICE $100 Ask about additional specials: Lift Tickets, Gift Cards, Learn to Ski Packages
ContactChuck Dickhut
Kissing Bridge Group Sales Office 592-4963 Cell 954-3406
WESTERN CURRENTS NEWSLETTER of the WESTERN ZONE of the NEW YORK STATE RETIRED TEACHERS’ASSOCIATION, INC.
Volume 8, Number 2 December 2009
Howdy Pardner!
“Howdy, pardner!” was the greeting every Western Zone delegate gave to all those attending the NYSRTA Annual Convention in October. It didn’t take long before everyone – Western Zone or from anywhere else in the State – was saying that to each other!
(Continued on page 9)
WZ Hosts NYSRTA Convention
This year was Western Zone’s turn to host the NYSRTA Annual Workshops and Convention on October 13-16 at the Turning Stone Resort & Casino. Thanks to all the delegates and spouses, it was a tremendous success.
(Continued on page 9)
Western Zone Citation AwardsWe con-
gratulate this year’s Western Zone Citation Award winners, LindaSchumacher, and Chuck Peszynski.
Tom O’Shea, chair, explained that The Citation Awards Commit-tee identifies and recognizes members who have demonstrated excep-tional leadership, contributions, service and effort to both Western Zone and their local organizations and communities. Marilyn Tota, Charles Peszynski, and Maxine Dowler also served on the a
Linda Schumacher and Chuck PeszynskiPresident NYSRTA, John Olsen
wards commit-tee this year.
Western Z dicated toAnthony Vetrano
l
D. Vetr
iscontributions and service to our organization.
one Conference De
Thisyear’s AnnuaConferenceheld at Salva-tore’s ItalianGardens in September was dedicated to AnthonyJudy Klug,, Marilyn Tota, Betty
Browne-Co-Chairs ano.An ac-
tive member of NYSRTA, he has served as chairman of local committees and has been a delegate to several state conventions. Tony has been a past president, a leader, and an innovator. We thank him for h
Marie and Anthony Vetrano
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage Paid
Buffalo, NY Permit No. 4574
Our Western Zone Spring-Get-Away will
take us to Branson—See page 6 for details
Western Zone – NYSRTA P.O. Box 922 Williamsville, NY 14231-0922
Western Zone Convention Delegates at NYSRTA Annual Convention.Think about attending next year.
