West Virginia Federation [Type text] Newsletter December 2014 PRESIDENT’S CORNER Wayne F. Mitchell President WV Federation of Chapters The elections are finally over and I am glad all the name calling on the television ads is over. The WV federation of NARFE Chapters, National Active and Retired Federal Employees lost a good friend, Congressman Nick Rahall, who I had worked with for the last twenty (20) years in the election. Congressman Rahall voted for and with NARFE 89% of the time. He and his office were always helpful and receptive to our needs. The NARFE Legislative Department of PAC could not help with my request as WV Federation of Chapters President to provide more funds to assist Congressman Rahall in his Campaign instead giving more funds to a candidate who only voted with and for NARFE 56% of the time. I have asked for help with this issue from our Region X VP and our Federation Legislative Chairperson, Mr. Steve Sosson. Steve is scheduled to attend a Legislative training session in Arlington Va. The purpose of this session, hosted by NARFE, is to work on changing the way PAC funds are granted by NARFE office personnel, without input from Federation Presidents and Federation Legislative Chairmans. Our1st VP and Membership Chairperson, Anna Boggs, has been doing a great job attending Health Fairs and Recruiting new NARFE members. The WV Federation of NARFE Chapters District IV is meeting on Dec 12, 2014 to begin planning for the 2015 NARFE State Convention at Pipestem Resort and Park. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all! ---------------------------------------PAST PRESIDENT’S REPORT Robert Hardesty Immediate Past President WV Federation of Chapters Our Federation President, Wayne Mitchell, has asked me to become involved with an issue which is of concern to a number of our members throughout the state. That issue is the frequency with which we hold our convention, which is currently every year, and rotating among the five federation districts on a scheduled basis. While we have always had good conventions at sites where we can enjoy ourselves and the company of others from all of our chapters, we find it increasingly difficult to find willing participants from each district to do the significant preparation to make a success of these conventions every year. Recently, members who attend their chapter meetings were asked if they preferred to continue with annual conventions or to change to a convention to be held every other year. Nearly one third of the NARFE federations nationally now have biannual conventions. The overwhelming response was that our membership would prefer that we hold our convention every other year. Their reasoning was that in every district it was becoming very difficult to rally enough assistance to do this job. Now that we have heard the will of the membership in this regard, the serious considerations begin. And that’s why I’m putting this question to you in this newsletter, so that more of you can consider this and provide your opinions and insights. --------------------------------------REGION X REPORT William “Bill” Shackelford Region X Vice President "If we continue trying to do business as usual, NARFE will cease to exist in a very few years. However, if we start the process of changing the way we operate, NARFE could be around for another 93-plus years - the decision will be yours." (NARFE President Joseph A. Beaudoin addressing NARFE National Convention Delegates August 24, 2014) One of my goals, as your Region X Vice President, will be to insure that there is an exchange of information between you as members of NARFE and the National Executive Board (NEB) so that we can all be working as a team toward the goal of making the necessary changes and improvements to NARFE, to ensure a viable and influential organization fighting to preserve our earned employment and retirement benefits for another 93-plus years. We must do better in maintaining effective communications between NARFE’s leadership and its members. We must keep our membership informed of the proposed changes to NARFE that are necessary for the organization to continue to protect our earned employment and retirement benefits. We can all agree that the biggest obstacle that our organization faces is the loss of members. We must find a way to reverse the nearly thirtyyear trend of declining membership. There is no wizard to deliver a magic potion. If there was, several traditional organizations would have opted for the potion as a solution to their woes since they are suffering the same fate as NARFE. Some may even be worse off than us; I learned just recently that in my home federation of Virginia, AARP which at one point in time had 29 local chapters, recently closed the last one. But there are options that can lead to success and, at least slow membership losses. During the recent NEB meeting in November, National President Richard “Dick” Thissen expressed the viewpoints that the officers on all levels serve both of the major segments of NARFE: 1) current members and 2) new members that we want to attract. We must also be mindful that we must continue to support the Federations and Chapters and all those who depend on us for information, assistance and advocacy. With 55% of our members 75 years or older, our organization, as a whole, will move forward on two paths simultaneously: 1) NARFE as it exists today and 2) a new NARFE designed to attract the younger members. NARFE intends to develop a strategic plan in accordance with the resolution supported by the delegates at the National Convention in Orlando, Florida which is aimed to modernize the organizational structure, create a renewed relevancy among the target audience and expand revenue sources. These efforts will begin with a study which analyzes the strengths and weakness of the NARFE brand through research with NARFE leaders, current members and prospects. Development of this strategic plan will be from a “square one” approach. Use of the Future of NARFE Committee recommendations will be as topics on a “blank canvas.” As officers, we must do our due diligence and move forward with items that will gain the support of the delegates at the 2016 National Convention. At this time there is no issue that would garner 2/3 approval. Areas of discussion included the need to improve the image of NARFE, to grow revenue, to make sure current members are valued and their needs met, to attract the interest and applications of prospective members and serve their needs, and to examine market research to help inform us as we think strategically toward constructive change and modifications that we make. We must be willing to explore any possible option, 2 including expanded membership eligibility, enhanced organizational mission, and expanded revenue/income sources. We must continue to guarantee NARFE’s leadership role in the legislative arena on behalf of Federal employees, retirees, and other annuitants. We need to welcome the support and participation of NARFE members of all political leanings - Democrat or Republican, liberal or conservative, libertarian or statist. Remember that NARFE’s mission is advocacy. We need to demonstrate the effectiveness of and enhance member participation in NARFE-PAC, the Political Action Committee for NARFE members. NARFE-PAC related actions are done in accordance with law and Federal Election Commission requirements. Our donations are declining. At this time, moving forward, with the 114th Congress and the anticipated “threats” from Capitol Hill, an increase in NARFE-PAC donations is essential so that we can be more effective. NARFE-PAC contributions should be requested in all newsletters, meetings, and events. YES, it’s OK to put a jar out and ask for NARFE-PAC donations, BUT every person who puts in something, e.g. $1, should also sign a sheet of paper next to the jar so that their name, address, membership are on record. This is a requirement of the Federal Election Commission and PAC-applicable laws/rules. NARFE-PAC Coordinators should be aware of this and have the appropriate sheet available for use at all times. Finally, plans are under way for the 2015 Region X Conference which will be held in late September - early October of next year. As many of you may remember, the 2013 Region X Conference which was held in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee was a tremendous success. There was a great exchange of information among the five federations in the areas of legislation, leadership, membership and service. While the actual conference is 10 months away, we must begin to work on the theme, agenda, speakers, etc. If you have any ideas/topics that you would like to see discussed in either the full general sessions or in individual break-out sessions, please let me know by e-mail at WShack1951@aol.com. The 2015 conference will be open to all NARFE members in Region X. In 2013, we had 72 attendees at the conference in Pigeon Forge. I would like to reach that level and possibly reach the level of 100 attendees. If you have any NARFE related questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me by telephone or e-mail. ---------------------------------------MEMBERSHIP Anna Boggs 1st Vice President Membership Total Membership as of Oct. 2014 – 237,258 Total Membership Gains New Members 7,691 Reinstatements 12,764 Total 20,455 Total Members Lost Cancellations – 391 Dropped for Non-Payment – 31,233 Reported Deaths – 6,809 Total 38,433 Membership Loss – 17,978 NARFE Chapters – 1,259 E chapter 2363 as of Aug. 21 – 21,460 E chapter 2364 as of Oct. 28 - 450 Total – 21,910 As of Oct. WV Total Membership – 1,421 Down 209 members from Dec. 2013 (AFE 150) (E-NARFE – 166) 3 Oct. 22 – Seminar at Tamarack - 33 participants, 2 applications received, and gave 1 free membership Bluefield Chapter Oct. 23 – Seminar at Charleston – 17 participated, gave 1 free membership Charleston Chapter for current retirees in a multi employer pension system to have their annuities cut. The article in the Washington Post was silent on the impact or lack thereof on Federal retirees. I have reached out to NARFE HQ and will let you know what I find out. The bill does include a 1% pay raise for current employees. Oct. 27 - Health Fair at Beckley VAMC – 61 participated, No one knew of NARFE and were very interested, 1 application received, and 1 free membership Beckley Chapter Here’s the link to the article: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/postpolitics/wp/2014/12/09/whats-in-the-spendingbill-we-skim-it-so-you-dont-have-to/ Nov. 6 - Beckley FCI – 38 participants, no one knew of NARFE, 1 free membership given Princeton/Mercer Chapter In other news, NARFE HQ has established an office to help the federations work on state – level issues affecting Federal retirees. Bob Hardesty has significant experience in dealing with Charleston and has graciously agreed to help in this process. We also hope to use the upcoming Spring legislative training session to sit down with NARFE HQ and discuss how they might help us. Nov. 17 - Charleston Federal Building – 17 M-2 Cards approximately 40 magazines distributed. Participants appeared afraid to fill out the M-2 cards for free membership. 1 free membership was given compliments of Charleston Chapter . Reports from other Seminars and Health Fairs will be reported per District Vice Presidents. We have reached many active federal employees who did not know of NARFE. HR at Beckley VAMC invited us back next quarter, National Mine Health & Safety Academy, Beaver, invited us on Nov. 24th and to Welch FCI on Dec. 5th. As the process of what is in the year end spending bill and what is not unfolds, it is more important than ever to stay informed. The best source of information is the NARFE website. Also take advantage of the 1-877-217-8234 hotline call in number. ---------------------------------------- Putting on my NARFE PAC hat for a moment, we have some concerns after the November elections on how the funding decisions are made and the level of Federation involvement. We will also be addressing those at the legislative training session. Regardless, NARFE PAC is an important part of protecting our earned benefits, and every bit of help is appreciated. We can’t let you know the latest happenings at NARFE if we can’t contact you! Please update your address, phone, and email address! ---------------------------------------LEGISLATIVELY SPEAKING Steve Sosson 2nd Vice President Legislation Whatever holidays you celebrate at this time of year, may they be joyous and inspiring, and may it be a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year for all of us. ---------------------------------------- Legislatively Speaking As I write this, the proposed “Cromnibus” legislation contains a provision that would allow 4 SECRETARY REPORT SERVICE OFFICER REPORT V. Jane Lambert Secretary John Sheely Service Officer Reminder to Chapter Presidents/ Secretaries: I have written at least one article in the past trying to bring to the attention of Federal Employees and Retirees things they should know and prepare for in case of their death. I have mentioned the pamphlet titled “Be Prepared for Life’s Events”. Everyone should get this and fill it out then file it in a safe place. The completed Form F-7, Chapter Officer Roster, should be submitted to NARFE Headquarters, with a copy to me, as Federation Secretary. (See instructions on the F-7) ---------------------------------------TREASURER’S REPORT Shirley Campbell WV Federation Treasurer Annual Report Beginning Balance (May 20, 2014) $10,295.82 Income Rebates /Dues Nat’l Match Funds Dividends License Plates Return of 2014Conv Funds 2517.00 340.00 95.74 10.00 300.00 Total Income through Nov 20 $ 3262.74 Disbursements: Mileage/Tolls/Travel PerDiem/Food Postage Office Supplies Web 2015 Conv Advance Box of Checks $ 2838.35 1200.00 63.55 75.60 58.98 300.00 14.85 Total Disbursements (through Nov 20th) 4671.33 Closing Balance (Nov 20th) $ 8887.23 Beginning/Closing Balance Savings (Nov 20th) $ 10.03 Typically, a Federal Employee or Retiree will consider and make arrangements for their spouse to receive their annuity if they should precede them in death. But few know or think that a child can receive their annuity if they should die. Yes, there are conditions where this can be done especially in the case of children with special needs. You can get a better understanding of this on the NARFE.org website. After signing in you will see an orange box titled “Officer Resources” on the main page. Click on “OAM” then on the next page scroll down on the left side and click on “In-House Presentations”. On the next page under that same title you will see a video titled “Survivor Annuities for Children”, click on it to watch the presentation. The video does not cover all you need to know but provides enough information to point you in the right direction on this issue. And, if you should need additional information call NARFE headquarters and ask to speak to David Snell, Director of Federal Benefit Services or someone from his staff. You can also send Mr. Snell and email at dsnell@narfe.org , contact your chapter Service Officer or me . On another subject, I was recently asked by a friend, if after the FEHBP Open Season a person becomes Medicare eligible is it possible to change health plans and the short answer is yes. This falls under OPM’s Life Events and is a once in a lifetime event. And, you DO NOT have to enroll in Medicare to affect the change in your FEHBP benefits. 5 As always, my contact information is at the end of this newsletter. If contacting me by email be sure you mention NARFE in the subject line. ---------------------------------------ALZHEIMER’S REPORT Anna Boggs WV Federation Alzheimer’s Chair NARFE met and exceeded our $11 million goal and did it 3 months early. Congratulations to all of you! As of Sept. 30, 2014, NARFE fundraising totals were $11,013,297.80. During the month of September, our members raised a total of $27,161.48. Now onto our next goal of $12 million by 2016. WV total contributions since June 1 –Nov. 15 are $3,311.00. Our total in 2013 was $3950.16. We are a little behind. Donna Shackelford is now our Region X Federation Alzheimer’s Chairperson. Charleston Chapter raised $2,105.00 this month by a fundraiser selling the $5.00 coupon books for Elder Beerman. Congratulations!!! Uninherited Alzheimer’s is a common form that affects older people, whereas the much rarer, inherited form – also known as early onset Alzheimer’s – strikes people much earlier in life, sometimes as young as 30 or 40. Now, a new study led by Washington University in St. Louis, Mo, finds there are networks in the brain that are affected in a similar way by both forms of the disease. The international team suggests that in both inherited and uninherited forms of Alzheimer’s , the same basic component of brain function begins to decline about 5 years before symptoms such as memory loss becomes obvious. The team hopes in the future it will be possible to ensure treatment has begun well in advance to slow or stop the damage caused by Alzheimer’s. It is not an easy subject to research, because of difficulty finding enough people with inherited Alzheimer’s to study , and the fact both forms of the disease progress slowly. The dominantly inherited Alzheimer’s Network or DIAN set up 5 years ago has now enrolled nearly 400 families. The research center has also been collecting extensive data from long-term studies of aging, such as the Healthy Aging and Senile Dementia Study, which has been going for over 30 years. Brain scans are very important in these studies. The importance is to have a diagnosis and treat before it gets to the middle stage. Studies show a low Vitamin D level could double Alzheimer’s risk. The research based on more than 1,600 adults over age 65 found the risk of developing Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia increased with the severity of vitamin D deficiency. It shows that there is a cause- and –effect link. During the follow up study, the participants with low levels of Vitamin D. were about 1.7 times more likely to develop dementia than those with normal levels. Those with severely low levels were about 2.2 times more likely that those with normal levels to develop dementia. Experts disagree with the best blood level of Vitamin D. In the study, risk for dementia and Alzheimer’s significantly increased below a threshold of 50 nanomoles per liter (nmol/L). Until more research is in, “try to eat a brain health diet” which is the same as a heart-healthy diet. That includes fools low in fat and cholesterol. ---------------------------------------2015 WV FEDERATION CONVENTION PLANNING MEETING HELD On August 8th, the first planning meeting for the 2015 NARFE WV Federation Convention was held. This will be the 50th WV State Convention. Mark your calendars - the dates for the convention are May 18-21, at Pipestem State Park. Representatives from all chapters in District IV were present. Wayne Mitchell will serve as Chairperson for the convention. Shirley Miller will serve as treasurer. Reda Heinger will be secretary and Lois Mitchell will serve as hospitality chairperson. ---------------------------------------6 2014/2015 WV Federation Executive Board Members President Wayne F. Mitchell 206 East Circle Drive Princeton, WV 24740-3853 304-487-9335 wmitchel2002@yahoo.com 1st Vice President (Membership) Anna M. Boggs 716 Westmoreland Road Charleston, WV 25302 (304) 343-6499 or (304) 415-2320 annaboggs@aol.com 2nd Vice President (Legislation) Steve Sosson 132 Tanbridge Drive Martinsburg, WV 25401 304-263-9680 slsosson@comcast.net Secretary V. Jane Lambert P. O. Box 406 Culloden, WV 25510 vjane.lambert@gmail.com Treasurer Shirley J. Campbell #4 52nd Street Charleston, WV 25304-2102 304-925-3935 sjcampbell2001@aol.com PR Officer Beverly Rynex 555 Olympic Drive Martinsburg, WV 25404 240-888-0103 brynex@hotmail.com Alzheimer’s Chair Anna M. Boggs 716 Westmoreland Road Charleston, WV 25302 304-343-6499 annaboggs@aol.com Immediate Past President Robert Hardesty 1517 Mt. Vernon Road Charleston, WV 25314 304-346-5250 rharde1946@aol.com Sergeant At Arms Bill Moore 137 Arcadia Road Hedgesville, WV 25427-6000 304-754-7631 bmoore28@hughes.net Chaplain Kate Lewis Brown 148 Avalon Trail Hedgesville, WV 25427 304-754-5039 johnkatebrown@comcast.net Service Officer/Net Coordinator John L. Sheely 427 S. Tennessee Avenue Martinsburg, WV 25401-2260 304-263-6787 wvskibum@aol.com District I Vice President J. Mark Hobday 111 Lawrence Street Morgantown, WV 26508 304-296-5721 JMH111@comcast.net District II Vice President David Nicholson 104 Pine Tree Lane Lost Creek, WV 26385 304-745-3176 dnicholson1@cebridge.net District III Vice President Anna M. Boggs 716 Westmoreland Road Charleston, WV 25302 304-343-6499 annaboggs@aol.com 7 District IV Vice President Shirley Miller 340 Willow Oak Drive Princeton, WV 24740 304-425-1421 shirleym.miller@suddenlink.net District V Vice President Dan Duckwall PO Box 272 Berkeley Springs, WV 25411 304-258-2778 (H) 304-268-3643 (C) duckwall@frontier.com Region X National Field Vice President William “Bill” Shackelford 14429 Round Lick Road Centreville, Virginia 20120 703-830-6590 (H) 703-201-6304 (C) WShack1951@aol.com ---------------------------------------FROM ACROSS THE STATE DISTRICT REPORTS District I J. Mark Hobday District I VP Wheeling Have done very little with the chapter this past quarter. Fairmont Barbara and I attended one meeting. Twelve people attended including Barbara and me and an active employee, a potential new member. I requested the Chapter have someone attend the health fair at the FBI office in Fairmont. They were unable to find someone and said they had very little success when they had previously attended. I talked with Dave Nicholson and he had someone that would cover this fair. I told him to use the free membership allotted for Wheeling as a prize for filling out an M2 card. Morgantown The chapter met with the Clarksburg chapter in August and September. The August meeting was with a representative of David McKinley’s office. The September meeting was with a representative of Senator Manchin’s office. Three people attended the August meeting and two people attended the September meeting. A representative of the Coordinating Council for Independent Living was the guest speaker at the October meeting held at Eat-N-Park. Eight people attended. The Blue Cross – Blue Shield representative discussed their health plan for 2015 at the November meeting. Thirteen people attended the meeting. Recruitment Barbara and I attended the health fair at NIOSH. We distributed about 35 magazines and collected 13 M-2 cards. The winner of the M-2 card drawing was Brent Doney, who lives in Fairmont. Jeff Merz and I attended the health fair at the Hazelton Prison. We distributed about 40 magazines and collected 18 M-2 cards. The winner of the M-2 card drawing was Chris Pulice, who also lives in Fairmont. We obtained a contact at the prison in Morgantown and will try to participate in their fair next year. DISTRICT II David Nicholson District II VP Chapter 0174 continues to have a monthly luncheon meeting at the Mountaineer Restaurant in Parkersburg on the fourth Thursday of each month. Recently the Distinguished Member Certificates was presented to Violet Bunner, Lorraine Beno, 8 Rosemary Hopkins and Jean Samples. Criteria for the Distinguished Member Certificates are the individual must be at least 85 years old and a member of NARFE for 20 years. I was unable to visit Chapter 0174 during the Past quarter as BC/BS attended the October meeting to discuss the changes in the Health Benefits for 2015. Chapter 1579 Clarksburg continues to have a monthly luncheon meeting with a speaker on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at the Eat’ N Park Restaurant in Bridgeport. The speaker in August was Mary Kate Spears of Congressman McKinley’s office. Jessica Sell of Senator Manchin’s office was the speaker in September. After each meeting a discussion was help on the concerns of NARFE members with each speaker. Three members of Chapter 1614 Morgantown were present at each meeting. On November 5th five members attended the Health Fair at the FBI Center in Clarksburg. Applications, Magazines, M-2 Cards and the “Ten Worst Mistakes Federal Employees Make” were given out. One hundred eighty eight M-2 cards were returned. At the end of the Fair, one M-2 card was drawn for a one year free membership. The individual receiving the free membership resides in Chapter 1579’s area. Two Chapter members attended the Health Fair on November 6 at the FBI Satellite in Fairmont. The same information was given out. Thirtyfive M-2 cards were returned. Again an M-2 card was drawn for a one year free membership and the individual resides in Chapter 1579’s area. The chapter obtained two new members. The M-2 cards were sent to Recruitment/ Retention. Chapter Christmas Party will be held on December 9 at the Eat N Park Restaurant. Chapter officers will remain the same for next year. explained that National had extended the recruitment period to December 31, 2014. Passed out letters addressed to Senators Rockerfeller and Manchin regarding Senate Bill 1486. I attended the BC/BS Health Benefits Officer’s Seminar at the Hilton Garden Hotel in Clarksburg on October 21, 2014. I gave a ten minute Power Point Presentation on NARFE to the group. DISTRICT III Anna Boggs District III VP Chapter 0166 Charleston Chapter 0171 Huntington Chapter 2252 Point Pleasant During the quarter, I have attended a meeting at all 3 chapters. We discussed changing the Federation Convention to every 2 years on the odd years. All were in agreement to this change. No one has voiced any desire for Federation office as of today. Charleston Chapter 0166 – Sept. 10th the members enjoyed the combined picnic with Huntington Chapter. Attendance has been low at meetings. Kerri Conger, Blue Cross/Blue Shield Representative and Jane Lambert, GEHA Representative presented their programs in November. I attended the monthly meeting of Chapter 2287 Tygart Valley Elkins at the Randolph County Senior Center. Five members were present. Unable to have election of officers as a quorum was not present. Discussed membership and 9 Huntington Chapter 0171 –Thanks to Geneva Lares, who held the chapter together. The chapter now has officers!! Oct. 8th, Wayne installed Jane Lambert, President, Carl Riggs, Vice President, and Kenny Smith, Secretary/Treasurer, Geneva stood in for Carl in the picture. In preparation for hosting the 2015 NARFE State Convention in May, we have had two (2) planning meetings. Dates and rooms have been secured. At Pipestem State Park for May 18, 19, and 20. Room rates are as follows: Hotel Room--$88.48 including tax. Suite/King size bed–$128.80 Hotel Room with Gorge View–$99.68 (Wayne suggests this one) Hospitality room–$88.48 Wayne also installed Jane Lambert as Federation Secretary Estimated cost of the Banquet Meal–$25.00$35.00 Officers for the event are: Chairmen–Wayne Mitchell Co-Chairman–Andy Moscarito Secretary–Shirley Sigmon Treasurer–Shirley Miller . Tri-County (Point Pleasant) Chapter 2252 - Sept. 18th had a wonderful meeting with the Dulcimer’s presenting. Host Committee–Billie Wall, Everette Rast, and Angie Grbac Facilities and Properties–Larry Lilly Memorial Committee–Kate Brown, Chaplain Banquet Committee–Lois Mitchell, Jean Poe, and Betty Mitchell Our next planning meeting is scheduled for December 12, 2014. The chapter is working hard to obtain new members. They plan a Health Fair in Dec. 18th with hope for some postal employees to be present. DISTRICT IV Shirley M. Miller District IV VP Chapter 1584 Bluefield-Appalachian Chapter 0950 Beckley Chapter 2226 Princeton/Mercer Chapter 0994 Alderson-Greenbrier In addition to attending all of chapter 2226 monthly meetings, I attended NARFE meetings for the Bluefield Chapter on August 28 and September 25, 2014. I also attended the Blue Cross/Blue Shield Seminar at Tamarack on October 22, 2014, where Anna Boggs gave a presentation on the benefits of belonging to NARFE and solicited new members from the group. DISTRICT V Dan Duckwall District V VP 10 On 1 October 2014, I attended the regular monthly luncheon and meeting of Chapter 1236 in Martinsburg at Hoss’ Steak House. The invited speakers were Brandon Dailey, Shelly Moore Capito’s representative and Nick Clemons, Alex Mooney’s representative. Each gave a brief talk, and then entertained questions from the group. Note was made that Brandy Shepherd, the area Blue Cross/Blue Shield representative, will be the guest speaker at the 3 December meeting. The Chapter extended an invitation to the other Chapters in District V to attend the meeting. On the 8th of October, I attended the monthly meeting of Chapter 2250, Jefferson County, held at Paddy’s Restaurant in Ranson. The speakers were the political nominees running for local and state offices. Enough said. On the 16th of October, Lois Walton and I representing Morgan County Chapter 2263 attended a luncheon at the Country Inn in Berkeley Spring with U. S. Senator Joe Manchin. Information pertaining to various NARFE concerns was passed to the Senator. The next luncheon and meeting I attended was held on 21 October at Cacapon State Park. Morgan County Chapter 2263 met for lunch at 12 noon, and the business meeting began at 1:00 pm. Claetus Canby, Rob Spiker and Tom Hart, representatives from Farm Family American National Investment, were the guest speakers. The nominating committee appointed at the last meeting reported they had one nominee for each of the elected Chapter offices. These will be presented at the November meeting. The 18 November meeting of Morgan County Chapter 2263 was held at Cacapon State Park with a very good turn out of members and guests. The guest speaker was Cindy Smalley, WVU Extension Agent. She presented to the group a very interesting program, explaining the many different functions of a County Agent. Following her presentation, there was a question and answer session. Discussion was held concerning the resolution that had been presented at the Federation Convention, to consider having the State Federation Convention every other year instead of the current annual convention. After considerable discussion, it was decided the Chapter would be in favor of having the convention every other year, preferably on the odd years, because the National Convention is held every other year on the even years. The members were also in favor of holding the conventions at different locations in the state, not at the same location year after year. The December Chapter meeting will be the Christmas exchange luncheon, to be held on the 9th of December at Cacapon State Park. The nomination committee presented the nominees for the coming year. There were no further nominations from the floor. The following individuals were elected by acclimation. President- Iris Jean Duckwall 1st VP - Phil Spriggs 2nd VP - Vivian Graham Secretary- Mary McBee Treasurer- Lois Walton ---------------------------------------NARFE HEADQUARTERS Jean Duckwall of Morgan County Chapter 2263 and Clay Ritchie of Martinsburg Chapter 1236 attended a Health Fair held at the IRS Computing Center in Martinsburg from 8 am until 3 pm. Various information was furnished to the employees and M-2 Cards were completed. Additionally, John and Beverly Rynex of Martinsburg Chapter 1236 manned the NARFE table at the US Fish & Wildlife Conservation Training Center, Shepherdstown, for their annual Health Fair; handing out membership information and answering questions. Phone: 703-838-7760 Fax: 703-939-7785 Email: hq@narfe.org TOLL FREE NUMBERS Member/Chapter Relations 1-800-456-8410 Membership Recruitment Hotline 1-800-627-3394 Legislative Hotline 1-877-217-8234 11 Extensions 373 201 202 772 203 431 255 242 436 274 277 246 240 253 286 248 270 432 276 284 265 256 266 433 259 267 280 252 251 260 244 263 272 287 264 341 437 435 342 262 258 243 285 271 245 434 275 249 289 380 MIS Help Desk Legislation Retirement Benefits Recruitment/Retention Budget & Finance Badie, Terri Beaudoin, Joseph Bedard, Beth Blackwell, Patricia Boel, Bridget Bryant, Jacqueline Campbell, Sharon Carter, Margaret Carew, Paul Clemons, Veronica Conley, Jerome Creeger, Debra Curry, Denise Dharma, Eunice Doyle, Ken Farrell, Chris Franklin, Towanda Freeman, Jason Green Lynette Hamidzada, Fred Hatton, John Harding, Juliet Hayden, Derrick Herbert, Ramon Hidayat, Dan Holomah, Kernovia Holstine, Sarah Hughes, Elaine Jackson, LaJuadon Klement, Jessica Lawing, Sandra Ledbetter, Ebony Ledbetter, Maria Moore, Myra Naik, Drusti Parsons, Linda Pembroke, Tim Polson, Tayo Coker Reeves, Al Reid, Ernest Reid-McCorkle, Natcole Robinson, Christina Saunders, Kenneth Shuebrooks, Gladys Smith, William 269 261 760 247 281 273 254 429 288 282 Snell, David Sorto, Theresa Sterling, Linda Strike, Gwen Thissen, Richard Uffen, Marian Vallario, Toni Washington, D’Juna Washington, Gloria Weldon, Cynthia ---------------------------------------Newsletter Editor: Beverly Rynex, WV Federation PR Officer Contact: brynex@hotmail.com 12