Newsletter

AAFES Retired Employees Association
Newsletter
October 2015
Supporting the Interests of AAFES, Its Retirees and the People it Serves
Why does that matter? Because it’s less than the average
for the third quarter of 2014 (234.242), which is an important component in the COLA equation. The August
Brian R. Poss, Director Benefits
It’s becoming increasingly unlikely and September 2015 numbers could bring up that
233.806 average, but it’s too soon to tell. The exact
that federal retirees will receive a cost cost-of-living adjustment for next year won’t be known
-of-living adjustment boost next year. until October when all the numbers are in.
Things aren’t looking good: Based on
The average of the July, August and September 2015
the current data from the Bureau of
Labor Statistics, there would not be a consumer price numbers, along with the average figure
from the third quarter of 2014, is used to calculate the
COLA increase next year, although
2016 COLA. The annual COLAs are based on the perthings could change depending on
centage increase (if any) in the average CPI-W for the
final numbers.
third quarter of the current year over the average for the
The Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and third quarter of the last year in which a COLA became
effective. In this case, that is 2015 and 2014.
Clerical Workers (CPI-W) stayed flat at zero for the
month of July, after rising 0.4 percent for the month of
June. The CPI-W, which the annual COLA for all federal If there’s no percentage increase, there’s no COLA. Retirees received a 1.7 percent COLA increase for 2015, a
retirees is based on, decreased 0.3 percent over the last
1.5 percent boost for 2014, a 1.7 percent increase for
12 months to an average index of 233.806. The CPI-W
2013 and a 3.6 percent bump for 2012. The 2012 COLA
measures price changes in food, housing, gas and other
increase was the first since October 2008 (which took
goods and services.
effect in 2009).
2016 COLA Not Likely
Relationship ends between the Exchange
and Chase Bank USA on September 30
October 2015 is ushering in a new era for the MILITARY STAR card and its more than
2 million cardholders. The MILITARY STAR card is seeing a major retooling in its brand,
bringing with it an all new rewards program to not only the Army & Air Force Exchange
Service, the Exchange®, but the sister services, as well. Customers will be automatically
enrolled in the new program.
What all does the change entail? It starts with a brand new card, complete with image and
security updates, which customers started receiving in September. Incorporating focus group
research, the card features the Statue of Liberty, a universal sign of American freedom and
liberty. Military members receive a version with their branch seal, which when put together
with the new logo creates an image of a medal. The card also includes new security features.
(Story continued on page 22).
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October 2015
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Chuck Poffenbarger, President
AREA Update
Welcome to the October, 2015 edition of AREA’s Newsletter, the first month of Autumn.
Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.
Albert Camus (1913 - 1960)
When the bold branches
Bid farewell to rainbow leaves Welcome wool sweaters.
B. Cybrill
A few days ago I walked along the edge of the lake and was
treated to the crunch and rustle of leaves with each step I
made. The acoustics of this season are different and all
sounds, no matter how hushed, are as crisp as autumn air.
Eric Sloane
I cannot endure to waste anything as precious as autumn sunshine by staying
in the house. So I spend almost all the daylight hours in the open air.
Nathaniel Hawthorne (1804 - 1864)
It was one of those perfect English autumnal days which occur
more frequently in memory than in life.
P. D. James
There is a harmony
In autumn, and a lustre in its sky,
Which through the summer is not heard or seen,
As if it could not be, as if it had not been!
Percy Bysshe Shelley English poet (1792 - 1822)
That time of year thou may'st in me behold,
When yellow leaves, or none, or few, do hang Upon those boughs which
shake against the cold,Bare ruin'd choirs, where late the sweet birds sang.
William Shakespeare (1564 - 1616), Sonnet LXXII
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YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITS…
Benefits Q&A— Questions you ask; answers from Exchange Benefits
‘Medicare Direct’ Program - Are you enrolled?
Are you enrolled in Medicare Part A and/or B and have supplemental
coverage under the DoD NAF medical plan? If so, you are eligible for
a program called ‘Medicare Direct.’ This program was designed to simplify filing your supplemental claims once Medicare pays it’s portion.
Q: How does it work?
AAFES Retired
Employees Association
The AREA Newsletter is published in
January, April, July and October
Mailing Address:
AREA
P. O Box 380614
Duncanville, TX 75138-0614
President:
Chuck Poffenbarger
cpoffen@earthlink.net
Tel: (972) 296-0388
Membership & Address Changes:
Send your NEWSLETTER ADDRESS
and MEMBERSHIP changes and your
MEMBERSHIP DUES to the AREA
Membership Director Pat Weaver.
ken-pat@sbcglobal.net
Tel: (972) 780-9810
Newsletter input:
Submit articles to the editor by
e-mail to: Marcia Kane,
kanemarea@windstream.net
AREA Web address:
http://www.aafes.com/about-exchange/
retired-employees-association/
A: Medicare Direct saves you the trouble of filing a second claim on
Part A and/or B medical expenses. Sign up once for Medicare Direct
and Medicare will automatically forward any remaining expenses to
Aetna for processing. All you have to do is wait for your supplemental
claim to be processed by Aetna—no more time-consuming paperwork
to fill out. Since this is handled electronically, there is no more postage
expense and claims are processed more quickly.
Q: Is enrollment automatic?
A: Most covered retirees are automatically enrolled. About 75% of
AAFES retirees eligible for the Medicare Direct Program are already enrolled. Individuals that may not be enrolled in Medicare
Direct include the following:
Newly-eligible Medicare participants who haven’t yet been automatically
enrolled by Aetna. Note: A etna typically does the auto-enrollment process once a year. As a result, you might have to wait several months before
the auto-enrollment process captures your name as an eligible participant.
Spouses/dependents and/or retirees’ whose Medicare number does not
end in an “A.”
Q: If I am not currently enrolled in the Medicare Direct program, how do I
enroll?
A: Simply call Aetna at the phone number on your ID card and tell the customer service agent you wish to enroll. They will ask for your DoD NAF
HBP ID number and your Medicare number so have that information
available when you call. It usually takes about 30 to 45 days for the program to go into effect.
Q: Is there a charge for this program?
A. There is no charge to you for this service, so be sure you participate today.
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YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITS…
Why pay more than necessary?
Editor’s Note: The new 2015 maximum allowable rule discussed below does NOT apply to you if you and all eligible
dependents are enrolled in Medicare and are enrolled in the DoD NAF HBP Traditional Choice Plan . The provisions of the
DoD NAF HBP Traditional Choice Plan applies as usual. It also does NOT apply to retirees living overseas.
It DOES apply to you if you are an over or under age 65 retiree enrolled in the DoD NAF PPO Plan. It also applies to
Medicare-eligible dependents of an under age 65 retiree enrolled in the DoD NAF PPO Plan. This is because the secondary
coverage for the Medicare-enrolled dependent is based on the provisions of the PPO plan until such time that both the
sponsoring retiree and any eligible dependents are age 65. At that time, Medicare becomes primary and the Traditional
Choice Plan becomes your secondary plan of coverage.
Now, it’s more important than ever to check
costs for outpatient procedures
Aetna Navigator® secure member website. Just visit
www.aetna.com and enter your user name and password. If you haven’t registered yet, it takes just a few
minutes.
You may not know that different medical facilities, like
hospitals and care centers, often charge different amounts
for the same, basic services. So having a simple outpatient After you log in, roll over the Coverage & Benefits menu
procedure like an MRI done at a local hospital may have and click on Coverage & Benefits. Next, click on the
a different cost than at a nearby radiology center.
Medical sub-menu. Then, click View your Medical plan
balances and you’ll see a list of included procedures and
This affects you because your health plan now pays a set the maximum allowable amount for each.
amount, called the maximum allowable amount, toward
the facility cost for some outpatient procedures. And you List of Procedures
are responsible for paying facility costs over that amount. Carpal Tunnel Release
You can still go to any in-network or participating
facility you choose. You just have even more reason to
compare costs before you go, because your choice may
change your out-of-pocket costs. There are easy to use
tools to help you make this decision, and help you limit
the amount you spend.
The Medical Plan Details page of the Aetna Navigator®
secure member website shows all included procedures
and the reference price for each. Members can then use
the Member Payment Estimator to see procedure costs
at different facilities in their area. Combining cost with
other factors such as location, availability and doctor
recommendations will help employees become betterinformed health care consumers.
Cataract Removal
Colonoscopy (preventive and screening)
CT Scan with Contrast
CT Scan without Contrast
Inguinal Herniorrhaphy
MRI With Contrast
MRI without Contrast
Sleep Study
Tonsillectomy/Adenoidectomy
Upper Endoscopy
Member Payment Estimator gives you an idea of
what you’ll pay
The Member Payment Estimator lets you compare costs
for different procedures at facilities in your area. Once
you’re in Aetna Navigator, click on Use Member Payment
Estimator in the Cost of Care box.
Quality is never in question.
Procedures selected to have a maximum allowable
amount show no difference in quality from one
facility to the next. So you can be confident that whichever facility you choose will deliver the result you want.
Then you simply:
• Choose the family member who needs the procedure
• Enter a zip code
• Select a procedure or service
• View the list of doctors, hospitals or other facilities in
your area and their cost estimates
View included procedures and amounts
First, it’s important to note that not all outpatient procedures have a maximum allowable amount. You can see
which are included, and the price for each, using your
This tool takes your deductible, cost-sharing and coverage
details into account. That way, it can provide you with a
good idea of what you’ll pay for a medical service.
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YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITS…
Helpful Information for Dependents
Pension, Insurance, and Shopping Privileges
Clip pages 5 through 10 of this newsletter and keep with your
important papers. It will save your survivor(s) a lot of trouble
after you are gone.
Remember: these benefits belong to your sponsor. To protect their privacy, AAFES can only tell you basic policies, unless you produce a valid Power of Attorney. If a sponsor dies, we can only discuss benefits with the
named beneficiary/beneficiaries.
For that reason, your sponsor should keep his/her AAFES benefits information in a safe place for reference. This
may include plan booklets, enrollment forms and beneficiary form copies. We encourage retirees to discuss benefits with their dependent(s) at least annually.
Whenever you need assistance, contact the HQ Benefits office in Dallas, TX via phone (1-800-519-3381), e-mail
(benefits@aafes.com) or US mail at:
HQ AAFES
Attn: FA-T Benefits
P.O. Box 650428
Dallas, TX 75265-0428
** DETAILED CONTACT INFORMATION AT THE END **
Health Insurance
If a retiree qualified for continued health insurance when they retired, their retirement papers would have given
them these details.
OTHER COVERAGE: (“primary” = pays first, “secondary” = pays second) A person’s coverage through their
own employer is always primary for them. If you, as a dependent, have your own coverage in addition to AAFES
coverage, your own is primary and AAFES is secondary.
FOR RETIREES OVER AGE 65: Medicare is primary and your current plan is secondary. When a retiree and
all covered dependents become Medicare-eligible (at age 65, or earlier due to disability) your plan will change to
the Traditional Choice Plan if you are not already in that plan due to your location.
IF SPONSOR DIES: If your sponsor had family coverage and dies, you and covered dependents WILL be eligible for some "survivor" medical coverage if you were enrolled for at least 90 days. The minimum is 4 months of
free medical coverage. Coverage after this is available through AAFES, whether or not AAFES pays for the coverage depends on the retired category of your sponsor, the plan they were in, how long they had been enrolled,
etc., cost and coverage period can also vary.
If you only qualify for the minimum 4 months of survivor coverage, you may be able to get coverage through the
Health Insurance Marketplace that may cost less than the continuation plans from Aetna. To find out more about
these plans go to www.healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596.
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YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITS…
SURVIVING DEPENDENT OF:
1. An employee who:
a. Had less than 15 years of cumulative participation in the DoD Nonappropriated Fund
Health Benefits Program (NAF HBP) medical
plan; or
TYPE & LENGTH OF
COVERAGE:
Temporary Continuation of
Coverage (TCC) in non-HMO
DoD NAF HBP medical plan for
up to 36 months. No dental
coverage.
b. Was not participating in the applicable
defined benefit retirement plan at the time of
death.
2. An employee who:
a. Had 15 or more years of cumulative participation in the DoD NAF HBP medical plan;
and
b. participated in the applicable defined benefit retirement plan at the time of death.
3. A retiree receiving Post Retirement Medical
(PRM) who:
Same medical coverage as
employee.
Same dental coverage, if employee also had 15 years in a
DoD NAF HBP HMO or nonHMO dental plan.
a. is grandfathered and
No cost for first 4 months.
After 4 months, the survivor
pays the same premium
rate as an active employee.
Same medical and dental coverage applicable to retiree
No cost for first 4 months.
b. retired before 1 Jan 2000 on an Optional
Early Retirement
5. A retiree receiving PRM who:
Survivor pays the full cost of
the total medical premium
(employee and employer
share), plus an administrative fee of 2 percent of the
total premium for up to 32
additional months.
No cost for first 4 months.
b. who is grandfathered but retired after
1 Jan 2000 on an Optional Early Retirement
a. is grandfathered and
No cost for first 4 months.
Same medical and dental coverage applicable to retiree
a. is non-grandfathered or
4. A retiree receiving PRM who:
COST TO SURVIVOR:
Same medical and dental coverage applicable to retiree
After 4 months, the survivor
pays the PRM premium rate
applicable to the retiree or
employee.
Survivor pays the full cost of
the total medical premium
(employee and employer
share), plus an administrative fee of 2 percent for up
to 32 additional months.
No cost for the lifetime of
the survivor.
b. did not retire as Optional Early Retirement
IF YOU DIVORCE: In cases of divorce, the sponsor’s children are still eligible, but a covered ex-spouse is not..
The insurance carrier would provide the ex-spouse with (a HIPAA* statement) proof of previous coverage at
AAFES. The ex-spouse should explore coverage options through their own employer or a continuation plan through
the DoD NAF Health Benefit Plan. Continuation plans have a limited number of days in which you can enroll –
don’t delay. Check your Summary Plan Description for details.
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YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITS…
Life Insurance on Sponsor
If a retiree qualified for AAFES paid Basic Life Insurance after retirement, it will be indicated in the documentation
HQ Benefits provided at retirement. The coverage value reduces by 25% three times: at age 66, 67 and 68. The retiree
should contact HQ Benefits 31 days before the reduction age if they wish to purchase the “lost” amount. After age 68,
it will remain at the final 25% level until death.
IF THE SPONSOR DIES: AAFES can only discuss the insurance amount with the beneficiary (we’ll always use
the most recent form on file). To arrange for payment, the HQ Benefits office must have a certified death certificate
and the most recent beneficiary form from the eOPF, eBenefits or our HQ Benefits files (retired employees). For help
with burial expenses, the beneficiary or the funeral home can call HQ Benefits to arrange for an ‘assignment’ of life
insurance proceeds directly to the funeral home. If the life insurance payable exceeds $10,000 (after any assignments
have been deducted), Aetna deposits the remainder into a checking account in the beneficiary’s name and sends them
a set of checks.
IF YOU DIVORCE: A beneficiary change is the sponsor's responsibility. Sponsors can name anyone as a beneficiary - even an ex-spouse.
EVEREST FUNERAL PLANNING & CONCIERGE SERVICE: Offered as part of Aetna’s Life Insurance. Everest provides unbiased information on all funeral related issues. Nationwide database of funeral home services and
prices for you to price compare. Go online to www.everestfuneral.com/aetna. Enter your email address and the Identification Code: AETNA0055. You may also call 1-800-913-8318.
Long Term Care (LTC)
Long Term Care provides financial assistance for home health or nursing home care during a chronic disability or
long-lasting illness.
IF SPONSOR DIES: If a retiree had coverage, notify the insurance company to make sure billing stops. If you
(spouse) have coverage, confirm the amount and frequency of any future premium payments due, if you wish to continue coverage and where to send payments. Depending on the plan of coverage, you may be entitled to a refund of
some or all of the premiums paid minus benefits that were paid, if any. The refund is also based on the age of the covered person at the time of death. Check your summary plan description or insurance carrier (Aetna at 1-800-537-8521
or Prudential at 1-877-893-3306) for details regarding premium refunds.
IF YOU DIVORCE: Contact insurance company about converting your coverage.
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Personal Accident Insurance covers accidental death or dismemberment (losing a hand/foot/eye). Retirees can apply
for single or family coverage. No medical exam is required.
IF COVERED PERSON DIES DUE TO ACCIDENT: The sponsor listed the beneficiary(ies) on the enrollment
form and the beneficiary(ies) should contact the HQ Benefits office to begin claim procedures.
IF YOU DIVORCE: The retiree needs to change any family coverage to remove the now-ineligible spouse. Retirees
should contact the Plan’s Administrator (The Maksin Group) to remove coverage.
IF COVERED PERSON DIES AND THE DEATH IS NOT DUE TO AN ACCIDENT: The beneficiary is entitled to a refund of some of the premiums paid depending on the age of the covered person at the time of death. Check
your summary plan description for details or contact the Plan’s Administrator at 1-866-506-1561.
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YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITS…
Pension (Retirement)
A pension is based on: years in the pension plan, age at retirement, high-3 consecutive years earnings and Social Security benefits. AAFES adds in a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), based on the CPI-W, each year on 1 December, if one is announced.
If married at retirement and the employee decided at that time whether or not to set up a “spousal annuity”. It costs
10% of the retiree’s pension and gives the surviving spouse a maximum of 55% of their pension. It will begin the 1st
of the month after the death of the retiree. The decision made at retirement cannot be changed later unless the spouse
dies or there is a divorce.
If an unmarried when retired and the retiree didn’t set up any ‘extra’ annuities at retirement, a retiree can set up a
spousal annuity within one year of a date of marriage after retirement. The cost will be higher than 10%.
IF SPOUSE DIES: If the retiree had elected a spousal annuity at retirement, he/she should send HQ Benefits office
an original copy of the spouse’s Death Certificate. The 10% reduction will be removed. If the retiree later remarries,
he/she has a one-year period in which to elect a spousal annuity in the same percentage (if any) that was provided to
the spouse at retirement. The cost at this point would be more than 10%.
IF RETIREE DIES: Send HQ Benefits an original certified copy of the retiree’s death certificate. If retiree had
elected a spousal annuity, it will begin the 1st of the month after the death of the retiree and after all documentation is
received.
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
Fidelity Investments administers this plan for AAFES. You can name anyone as a beneficiary, within legal constraints.
IF SPONSOR DIES: Send HQ Benefits a copy of the death certificate. We will tell Fidelity to set up a new account
for the named beneficiary. If it is a spouse, he/she can either take the money as a distribution or a rollover. If not a
spouse, the beneficiary can get a distribution. Either way, the beneficiary can call HQ Benefits for assistance. Please
also consult with a legal and/or financial advisor.
IF YOU DIVORCE: Please consult with a legal and/or financial advisor. A spouse may be eligible for some of
the sponsor's 401(k) savings, via a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) at the time of divorce.
Survivor Base Access & Shopping Privileges
BASE ACCESS: It is recommended to gain access to a base without a sponsor to stop at the visitor’s office and request a pass. Spouses should bring their ID card (Dept. of Defense Form 2574) and another form of identification,
such as a driver’s license. If there are still issues gaining access, it may be necessary to contact the installation commander.
SHOPPING PRIVILEGES: A surviving spouse will retain limited AAFES/Exchange shopping privileges if the eligible retiree dies. The limited shopping privileges are outlined in Dept. of Defense Instruction 1330.21 and generally
exclude tobacco products, alcoholic beverages and military uniforms.
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October 2015
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITS…
AAFES/EXCHANGE POINTS OF CONTACT
call HQ Benefits office at 1-800-519-3381
fax 214-465-2801
write to:
HQ AAFES
Attn: FA-T / Benefits
P.O. Box 650428
Dallas, TX 75265-0428
E-mail address: benefits@aafes.com
LEGAL ADVICE AVAILABLE
1) Through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
CONUS: 1-800-424-5988
Overseas International Call Center in U.K.: 877-853-4704
www.magellanhealth.com/member
AETNA POINTS OF CONTACT
For Health, Life, Long Term Care Insurance
Health:
1-800-367-6276
PO Box 14079, Lexington, KY 40512-4079
www.aetna.com
Life: 1-800-523-5065
Long Term Care: 1-800-537-8521
PERSONAL ACCIDENT INSURANCE (PAI)
Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance
Contact The Maksin Group (Plan Administrator) at 1-866-506-1561
Maksin – Misc
PO Box 71322
Philadelphia, PA 19176-1322
PRUDENTIAL
Long Term Care Insurance
Contact Prudential at 1-877-893-3306
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October 2015
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YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITS…
STATE STREET - PENSION PAYMENTS
US: 1-877-247-2769 (toll-free)
Overseas collect 1-904-791-2246. Leave message and phone number. A representative will return your
call.
Or email them at aafesclientserviceteam@citistreetonline.com.
FIDELITY 401(k) ACCOUNTS
US: 1-800-835-5098
From Overseas, get an AT&T Direct access number by visiting http://www.att.com/traveler, or calling
1-800-331-1140 for a list of country codes, or by asking the local operator. After you dial your AT&T
Direct access number, enter 877-833-9900 to reach the Fidelity Retirement Benefits Line.
www.401k.com or www.fidelity.com
HMO POINTS OF CONTACT
Call the number on your medical HMO insurance ID card.
DO YOU KNOW WHERE THESE ITEMS ARE?
MORE IMPORTANTLY: DOES YOUR SPOUSE OR BENEFICIARY
KNOW WHERE THEY ARE?
1. Copy of latest beneficiary forms (Can't find it?
Log onto www.aafesbenefits.com and print a
copy. If you don’t have designated benefits on
the website just submit the information and
print for your records.)
9. Most recent tax return and supporting
documentation
2. Social Security card(s)
12. Legal advisor's name and number
3. Insurance policies - life, mortgage, accidental
death, auto, credit card, health, etc. whether
obtained privately or through an employer
13. Financial advisor's name and number
4. Military discharge papers (for any veteran's
benefits, burial or otherwise)
10. Birth certificate(s) for dependent children
11. Credit cards
Do you have a safety deposit box?

Where is it?
5. Marriage certificate(s)

Who is on the access list?
6. Divorce decree(s)

Where are the keys?
7. Will(s)
8. Property list and/or videotape
Plan Ahead Now!!
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YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITS…
Post Retirement
Medical VEBA
The Post-Retirement Medical (PRM) plan continues to
be one of the most valuable benefits that are enjoyed by
our Exchange retirees.

Eligible retirees who became plan members subsequent to December 31, 1999. Participants who were
not grandfathered, but are eligible for PRM will continue to pay the same employee premium as active
associates to maintain PRM coverage.
To give you an idea of the level of commitment, in
2014 Aetna administered approximately $87.3 million
in medical and Rx claims. In addition, $5.7 million
Eligibility includes having participated for 15 years as an
n dental claims and $5.8 million in retiree life insur- active associate in the Health Benefits Plan, retiring with
ance claims were paid during the same period.
an immediate pension, and being enrolled in the plan
upon retirement. Either way, the coverage for active asThe PRM plan is simply an extension of the Active
sociates and retirees is the same until the retiree becomes
VEBA (Voluntary Employees' Beneficiary Association) eligible for Medicare. One major difference for retirees
plan that serves to pay medical benefits to active associ- is that once the retiree turns age 65, and becomes eliates. A VEBA is an account that is used to provide
gible for Medicare, our plan will become secondary
employee benefits. In the case of The Exchange, the
coverage and Medicare will become primary. A retirActive VEBA and PRM are held in separate trusts outee should enroll in Medicare Parts A & B as soon as
side of the corporation organization itself - meaning
they become eligible. Retirees will not need to sign up
they are independently administered.
for Part D.

That said, the Exchange continues to supplement
the PRM and VEBA due to the rising costs of health
care and the recognition that people are living longer. It is important to note that AETNA administers
the program while the Exchange provides the funding for the plan.
The Exchange covers our qualifying retirees under the PRM in one of two ways:

The Exchange's retiree health benefits continue to be a
valuable asset and Exchange leadership remains committed to its provision. According to Towers Watson, nine
out of 10 employers (89%) say retirement
medical benefit security is somewhat to extremely important to their retirees. While plan sponsors want to
honor their promises to their retirees, cost and risk concerns are influencing them to adjust their approach. Major changes in the retiree medical landscape challenge
employers to meet the needs of retirees, reduce costs and
minimize risks.
For Premiums for retirees who were enrolled in the
Exchange Health Benefits Plan on December 31,
Accordingly, the high cost of health care is forcing other
1999 and eligible for PRM, are paid 100% were
employers to re-examine the benefits they offer for pregrandfathered and their premiums will continue to be
Medicare and Medicare-eligible retirees.
paid by the Exchange.
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October 2015
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CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Alamo Chapter—Brenda Borland
May Golf Tournament
The Alamo Chapter's May golf tournament was held at the Canyon
Springs Golf Course in San Antonio. Third time was a charm since the
golf tournament had to be cancelled twice because of rain.
 First place winners with a score of 67 were Roy Hines. Brenda
Borland and Ann Pauleuc.
 Second place winners with a score of 70 were Ken and Bonnie
Archibald and Richard Grona.
 Third place winners with a score of 71 were Tony Trevino, Val
Gomez and Bill & Janice Dobbs.
 Closest to the pins were Roy Hines on holes 3 and 13 and Richard
Grona on hole 7.
Brenda Borland, Roy Hines and Ann Pauleuc
The May's ladies luncheon for the Alamo Chapter was held at the Le Peep restaurant. It was an enjoyable time of
visiting with food ranging from breakfast pancakes to specialty sandwiches.
Ann Pauleuc, Brenda Borland, Doris Morris,
Claire Guillmette,
Kathy Jackson, Marilyn Cerna, Marilyn Tarin (visiting) ,
Ann Brogan and Ella Trevino
Alamo Chapter – Thomas Brogan
The Alamo Chapter held its annual steak dinner in San Antonio at the popular Longhorn Steakhouse on June 25. Beside the many cuts of steak many other choices were on the menu. This popular event was arranged by Ann Brogan.
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October 2015
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CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Aloha Chapter— William Allgire
The summer luncheon of the Aloha Chapter was held on Sunday, 23 August at the Fort Shafter Hale Ikena Club. In
addition the excellent prime rib, omelet station buffet the chapter held a very successful plant and bake sale. Items
provided were homemade Pecan Bars by ADRIENNE HAMADA, Mango Bread provided by MARLENE TOKUHISA, fresh ripe mangos brought by JANE FUKUNAGA, and fresh sweet bread bakery dinner rolls by LAURIE
SANTOS. Various plants were also provided by LESTER AND MARLENE TOKUHISA. A total of 33
members and guests enjoyed the buffet and "talking story" with the other members and guests.
The Chapters’ Christmas luncheon will be again be held at the Pearl Country Club on Sunday, December 6.
Allyson, Wilton & Lauri Santos
Lourdes Dela Cruz; Adela Ilae; Cecilia
Edwards
Gwen Goo; Rose Kawata; Pauline Ung; Adrienne Hamada
Julia Davis and Jan Santana
Marlene & Lester Tokuhisa; Roy Miura; Ardel Katsura
Syndi, Nay, Wila & Jim Garnder
Pag e 1 4
October 2015
AR E A N EW SL ET T ER
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Augusta AREA Chapter Luncheon -- Cynthia Grzybowski
Summer in Georgia has been challenging this year... With "feels-like" temperatures hitting 120*F and humidity continuing to range in the + 90 percentile, you certainly didn't have to join a gym to enjoy a sauna... all you had to do
was walk outside! That being said, it certainly wasn't going to stop the Augusta AREA Retiree Group from having our annual Summer Potluck Party- inside an air conditioned clubhouse, that is... Smile!!
Eighteen retirees attended the meeting, enjoyed the food and fellowship and learned some new Senior Texting Codes
like- BYOT (Bring your own Teeth); BFF (Best Friends Funeral); LOL (Living on Lipitor); WWNO (Walker
Wheels Need Oil) and GGLKI (Gotta Go, Laxative Kicking In). Hope you are now smiling as much as we did!! Stay
Cool!
Brenda Noland, Diane Akridge, Gloria Bolden, Janet Adams, Jean
Crittenden, Clarissa Murray
Ron and Yong Rozier, Jonaquin Armitage, Robert Butler, Homer
Armitage
Rita Mclaughlin
Mary Elim and her grandson, Marc Roberts
Not shown - Hulon Rolland and his daughter, Dana, Deloris Sims, and Cindy Grzybowski
AR E A N EW SL ET T ER
October 2015
Pag e 15
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Golden Gate Chapter — Ernie Kodama
Photos taken at the AREA Golden Gate Chapter Charter Day Luncheon on July 18, 2015 at the Hilltop 1892
Restaurant in Novato, CA. The building was originally built in 1892 as the family home of Daniel Hayden atop a hill with sweeping views of the hills and bay. It became homes for several prominent Novato citizens until 1930 when it was converted into a restaurant. For more than 30 years, it was known as Hilltop Cafe
until the current owners took over in 2010 and kept the Hilltop and added the building completion date.
Arlene Hadfield, Arline Gilman, Dennis
Gilman & Lou Vitalie
Gena Kretz, Charles Kretz, Toni
DeFardeleben & Mary Lou Geimer
Lorraine Harris, Ernie Kodama
& Julie Lee
Stanlee Garriott & Joan Turner
Pag e 1 6
October 2015
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CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Golden Gate Chapter — Ernie Kodama
Lou Vitalie, Arline Gilman,
Carol Beatty, Noble
Emery, Julie Lee,
Lorraine Harris & Mary
Lou Geimer
AREA-GG held its September luncheon
at the The Village Italian Restaurant in
Novato, CA on September 2nd. After
the luncheon, Noble Emery did a
demonstration on how to repot an
orchid. Noble's expertise on orchid
cultivation is based on decades long
hobby and his active participation in the
San Francisco Orchid Society including being an officer & board
member of the Society. He has several
hundreds orchid species in his extensive
collection.
"Chick" Kretz, Lorie
McCormick & Gina Kretz
Julie Lee, Ernie
Kodama, Lou Vitalie,
Arline Gilman, Noble
Emery, Lorraine
Harris & Mary Lou
Geimer
Val Grohoski, Marion
Grohoski & Buddy
Noble Emery demonstrated
the proper way to repot
an orchid.
An orchid repotted!
Hands-on orchid repotting demonstration.
AR E A N EW SL ET T ER
October 2015
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Central Texas Chapter—Photos by Harold Robbins
Chapter members enjoyed a luncheon together in Austin on June 1. The following people
participated and enjoyed an Exchange retiree gathering.
Cynthia Archer
Harold Robbins
Leslie Robbins
Bertha Rhodes
Tina Ogleton
June Gayheart
Cherryl Niemann
Jennifer McCormick
Martha Wood
Paulo Wood
Mary Jones
Karen Morgan
Sandra Morgan
P ag e 17
Pag e 1 8
October 2015
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CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Dix McGuire Chapter—Betty J O'Brien
The Dix-McGuire Retiree Association held its Summer Luncheon on Wednesday, June 10, at one of the group’s favorite location,
Cracker Barrel in Burlington, NJ. A summer theme was prevalent throughout the luncheon with door prizes that included items
needed for summer fun. The winners of the door prizes included Theodore Jackson and Maxine Jackson. Ruth Jones was the
lucky 50/50 winner. Velma Watkins won a beautifully hand painted wine glass donated by artist Jan Terri Lawrence, spouse of
our Retiree Errol Lawrence.
A very impressive 43 retirees and guests enjoyed the fellowship of one another. There were two newcomers: Shang Sharp who
just retired in December and Flora Bolden who retired from Ft Dix MCSS many years ago. We were very happy to see Lori Foster, Retired Retail Manager, who drove 2 hours from Pennsylvania to attend the luncheon. Birthday wishes were announced for
Welton Chase Sr, Edna Rock, Linda Beahm, Elease Thomas, and Theresa Hall.
All attendees voted to select the 2015 Committee Board. The Winners are as follows: President: Betty O’Brien; Vice President: Joyce Hosey; Treasurer: Fran Stanley; Secretary: Carrine Simms; Assistant Secretary: Monica Fredrick;
Social Director: Jeanette Carter; and Assistant Director: Linda Beahm (who declined the position for health reasons).
The Group also discussed upcoming social events such as trips to Atlantic City, and so on. In addition, everyone signed a “Get
Well” card for Eloise Walters who recently had surgery. All remembered Gloria Logan, who recently passed. Our next meeting
will be held September 9th, 2015 at the same location. (Names in photos are left to right unless otherwise identified.)
Arlene Cornish, Nedra Harris,
Elease Thomas and Mr. McKee
Monica Frederick, Julia Brown,
Bernice Brown
Right to left: Velma Watkins, Peggy Forcey,
Yoshiko Brown, Reiko Williams
Hattie Wisher, Sandra
Moolchan, Joyce Carr
More chapter luncheon photos on page 19
Evelyn Sprague, Linda
Beahm, Maxine Jackson,
Marianne Overheiser
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October 2015
P ag e 19
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Dix McGuire Chapter—Betty J O'Brien (Continued from page 18)
Evelyn Sprague, Linda Beahm,
Maxine Jackson, Marianne
Overheiser
Richard and Dorothy Schmelia,
Elaine Brown, Flora Bolden
Shang Sharp, Marie Guerrero,
Therese Hall, Bernice Moran
Jan Terri & Errol Lawrence
Lori Foster and Welton Chase Sr.
Theodore Jackson, Luis
Lopez, Earl Scott
Flora Bolden, Joyce Hosey,
Elaine Brown
Joyce Hosey, Jeanette Carter,
Carrine Simms
Pag e 2 0
October 2015
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CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
North Texas Chapter—Richard Sheff
NTC AREA MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN RAILROAD
TOUR & BABE’S LUNCHEON
August was the last month this year that the railroad tour was
given, and NTC railroad buffs did not want to miss the
opportunity to see this collection. The museum's offices, store and
some exhibits are temporarily housed at the Frisco Heritage Museum as construction continues on the railroad’s new home. All
were invited to attend the luncheon at Babe’s Chicken Lunch.
More photos are located on the North Texas of AREA Facebook
page.
Some of the NTC AREA Having a Wheel Good Time. — with Jerry Johnston, Sarah Rabb,
Sandy Jones Johnston, Jack Leavitt, Ronny Compton and Geoffrey von Wollenberg Sr.
“ROMEO, OH ROMEO” — Linda Dean
Back in 1993 several friends all retired from AAFES around the same time and started meeting weekly at la Madeleine’s for
coffee and conversation. For 22 years these friends have been solving the world’s problems each and every Friday over a cup
of coffee. Some move away, some move closer and newer retirees have joined the group. Currently there are 12 regular members. So, what do the ROMEOs (Retired Old Men Eating Out) do when previous members return to the area for a visit? That
calls for a party!
Gary and Judy Jacques were visiting old AAFES friends from their home in Washington and spent an evening of fun, food and
friendship with ROMEO Coffee Club members.
Chuck Poffenbarger and
Gary Jacques
Jane Patterson, Judy Jacques and
Judy Hanson
Nancy Minton and Linda Dean
Roy Dean, Jane Patterson, Nancy Minton, Tom
Minton, Lina Poffenbarger, Chuck Poffenbarger,
Terry Hanson, Judy Hanson, Judy Jacques,
Gary Jacques and John Liczbinski
AR E A N EW SL ET T ER
October 2015
Pag e 21
INFORMAL CHAPTER NEWS
Tinker AFB Retirees —Catherine Jones
Three AAFES retirees along with one adventurous spouse went on a 6 day Mystery Bus Tour! Retirees Marita
Dumont, Eve Plante, and Catherine Jones, and Charlie Jones enjoyed an adventure where we had no idea where
the tour bus would take us. Each morning we received our itinerary and each day was filled with surprises. We
left Oklahoma City and traveled to 5 states in 6 days with many exciting and interesting stops along the
way! The tour included a winery, a horse ranch, a civil war battlefield, caverns, a moonshine still, RCA recording studio, the Grand Old Opry and much, much more. Meals were at out of the way places and the food was
delicious. We're hoping that more AAFES retirees from our group will join us on our next Mystery Bus Tour!
Eve Plante, Catherine Jones, Charlie Jones, Marita
Dumont at the Grand Old Opry
Marita Dumont, Eve Plante, Catherine Jones in
Metropolis, Illinois, home of Superman!!
If you get together with other AAFES retirees in your area and don’t want to form a formal AREA
chapter, we’d still like to hear your news to include trips, lunches, and so on. Be sure to include
photos and identify people in the photos (left to right). Currently we have three informal chapters
that have reported gatherings: Puget Sound, Ft. Hood, and the Tinker AFB Retirees.
Page 28 lists all the AREA chapters, active and informal, with contact information. Let them
know you want to join in the fun today!
Pag e 2 2
October 2015
AR E A N EW SL ET T ER
Relationship ends between the Exchange
and Chase Bank USA on September 30
(Continued story from Page 1)
“Protecting our customers and their assets is a primary concern,” stated Jami Richardson, Senior Vice
President of the Exchange Credit Program. “That’s why we have added a new three digit security code
on the back of the card and an expiration date for online shopping.
In addition to a new card, and perhaps even more importantly, is the beginning of the MILITARY STAR
Rewards Program, the Exchange’s first internally operated loyalty program. The program was modeled
after the MILITARY STAR Chase Rewards MasterCard, which ended 30 September. All MILITARY
STAR customers now earn 2 points for every dollar they spend at Exchange locations, including at the
Express®, Service locations and online and will AUTOMATICALLY receive a $20 MILITARY STAR
Rewards card in the mail after 2,000 points.
The Exchange Credit program decided to end the Chase Rewards MasterCard to allow the loyalty program to be expanded from the current 100,000 cardholders to all 2 million Military Star customers.
Chase Rewards MasterCard customers will receive their all new Military Star card in mid September and
their new Chase card in October. A letter was mailed from Chase late August detailing the new program.
Cardholders will be able to track their points on myECP.com and on their statements. It’s also important
customers keep current their address, which can be done on myECP.com as well, to ensure their rewards
card arrive as quickly as possible.
“We are thrilled to be able to offer what we consider a personal dividend to our existing and future military service members, their families and retirees,” said Richardson. “This is a change we’ve been working on for a long time.”
AR E A N EW SL ET T ER
April 2014
PAGE 23
IN REMEMBRANCE
GEORGE GAN, 87, died April 6 in Monterey, Calif. The Golden Gate Exchange Region
Operations Specialist retired in 1985.
BERNICE NOBLE, 92, died July 19 in Denver, Colo. The Denver Exchange Associate
retired in 1978.
DEWEY PARKER, 77, died June 1 in Ruckersville, Va. The HQ Supervisory Operating
Accountant retired in 1989.
STANLEY SHIN, 74, died June 2 in Los Alamitos, Calif. The Korea Area Office Administration
Tech Supervisor retired in 2011.
FRANCIS SNYDER, 99, died May 6 in Citrus Heights, Calif. The Exchange Associate
retired in 1975.
JO STEELE , 83, died May 23 in Colorado Springs, Colo. The Arizona Area Retail
Manager retired in 1988.
KENNETH THOMPSON, 91, died July 17 in Cedar Hill, Texas. The HQ Senior Associate
retired in 1979.
Kenneth Thompson, A Tribute
We who knew him, worked with him and
enjoyed his friendship from the 1950`s in
Japan mourn the loss of "Ken". His presence, wise counsel, camaraderie and just
being "one of us" was an inspiration to all
of us. He was a well respected and admired senior executive at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas and founder and first
Chairman of the AAFES Scholarship
Fund. We will miss him but always be
proud and grateful that he was one of us in
the Japan Central Exchange(JCE)
group. Ken was unable to attend our Old
Japan group reunions for 5 years. This
past April he did attend much to our delight. May he rest in eternal peace with
his beloved wife Aiko.
Tim Brogan for the Old Japan Gang
If you wish to include AREA in your will...
“From time to time retired associates of AAFES leave bequests to the AREA in their will.
If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that prepares
your formally written and executed will with the following sample clause. If you make such
a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause."
Pag e 2 4
October 2015
AR E A N EW SL ET T ER
USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS
The following telephone numbers are provided as a convenience to members wishing to
contact certain HQ AAFES offices and the AAFES Federal Credit Union.
HQ SWITCHBOARD
(214) 312-2011
FOR RETIREMENT and GROUP INSURANCE BENEFITS:
HQ. AAFES BENEFIT BRANCH REPRESENTATIVES
(800) 519-3381
GENERAL COUNSEL:
DALE HARBOUR
(214) 312-3126
BARBARA KIRSCH
TABLOID DEPARTMENT
EXCHANGE POST:
SALES TABLOIDS:
(214) 312 3831
(800) 733-5142
ID CARD, PRIVILEGES
HR-S HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICE
(214) 312-6531
ID Cards issued Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 7:30-10 a.m.
If you are not able to get to the office between those times, you can call and schedule an appointment.
DOD VEHICLE STICKERS:
DOD stickers are issued in Real Estate (RE) from 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. on Monday-Friday
Retirees no longer need to put decals on their vehicles. When going to a military installation,
you now only need to show your identification.
AAFES FEDERAL CREDIT UNION: TOLL FREE SERVICE
NORTH AMERICA
(800) 452-7333
UNITED KINGDOM
0800-89-7490
GERMANY
0130-81-1187
PAT WEAVER
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED:
(972) 780-9810
For other information, check out the Exchange website at: http://www.shopmyexchange.com and
the AREA website http://www.aafes.com/about-exchange/retired-employees-association/
AR E A N EW SL ET T ER
October 2015
Pag e 25
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND
DONATION FORM
To: AREA
P.O. Box 380614
Duncanville, TX 75318-0614
From:
Telephone
This donation is (check one box below) *IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST, USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
(Name) *
 * In Honor of
(Name) *
*
 In Memory Of


An Annual Pledge*
Other
Send Card to:
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY, STATE, ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
* I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund. My donation for the
current year is enclosed.
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor. All donations are
income tax deductible.
DONOR NAME (Printed)
SIGNATURE
COMMENTS:
*
In memory of: __________________________________
In memory of: __________________________________
Note from your editor:
*
In honor of: ____________________________________
In honor of: ____________________________________
Enclosure # 6-1
If you enjoyed the July 2016 Newsletter, it may have been due to the story and photos that we got
from Tom Gallagher, Director, AREA Scholarship Program. AREA awarded 18 scholarships totaling
$49,000 to deserving applicants. This was out of 45 applications. This is a worthwhile program, however, I am sad to report that we had no donations this quarter. You can donate either in memory of a
fellow retiree or spouse, or make a general donation. Even if you are not a AREA member, you can
donate to this worthy cause. Please open your hearts and wallets and give generously to the
Scholarship Program. - Marcia Kane
Pag e 2 6
October 2015
AR E A N EW SL ET T ER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
VEGA, BARBARA E
8402 E MEDFORD PL
TUCSON, AZ 85710
TEL: 520-390-7928
barbevega@gmail.com
WALL, MICHAEL
149 Mountain View
Hamilton, GA 31811
MCCURDY, DEBBIE
115 N. LOOKOUT KNOB DR
SAHUARITA, AZ 85629
TEL: 520-807-8041
CABRERA, GEORGE
1-17-7 MATSUMOTO
OKINAWA CITY
JAPAN 904-2151
gebo@wt.net
ROTHWELL, GREGORY S
2916 HARRISON AVE UNIT E
PANAMA CITY, FL 32405
TEL: 850-890-8786
gmenb12fl@gmail.com
MADISON, PENELOPE J
9708 CONTENDER CT
MOBILE, AL 36695
TEL: 251-391-5895
VERGARA, CARLOS E
506 DEAN CT
DUNCANVILLE, TX 75137
TEL: 214-395-1260
teutoberg@gmail.com
MUHR, WILLIAM R
38000 S. SKYLINE DR
TUCSON, AZ 86739
TEL: 520-465-5581
Baseballbill6@gmail.com
BROWN, CASSANDRA
888 ARLINGTON DR
COLUMBUS, GA 31907
TEL: 706-464-5074
Cassandrabrown414@yahoo.com
DAUGHERTY, RONALD E
900 BAY DR. UNIT 48
NICEVILLE, FL 32578
TEL: 850-420-7573
RonaldEDaugherty@aol.com
CHANGES: (Address, Telephone, E-mail)
CRAMER, BETTY
223 COUNTY RD 11
UNION SPRINGS, AL 36089
TEL: 334-474-3298
bcram@ustconline.net
SMITH, GARY
478 EAGLE BROOK CT
DEBARY, FL 32713
TEL: 386-668-1757
Trekke01@gmail.com
SVOBODA, RICHARD
PO BOX 764162
DALLAS, TX 75376
TEL: 214-339-2524
RODMAN, CHARLES
519 N VILLAGE LN
LIBERTY LAKE, WA 99019
TEL: 509-979-9187
cerodman@gmail.com
COPELAND, WALTER
618 SERENADE ST
GRAND JUNCTION, CO 81504
TEL: 970-434-6424
walt.copeland@charter.net
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
Pag e 2 7
I. ACTIVE CHAPTERS:
1. ALAMO CHAPTER
BRENDA BORLAND, PRESIDENT
6018 CRESCENT FALLS
SAN ANTONIO, TX 78239
Email: bkborland@aol.com
HM 210-276-0682
Cell 210-862-9469
Apply for Membership contact:
Len Freitas, lfreitas001@satx.rr.com
2. ALOHA CHAPTER
PHIL ROACH
OCEANSIDE HAWAII #304
P.O. BOX 909, Hau'ula, HI 96717
Phone: 808. 234.5552
To Send chapter E-mail &
Apply for Membership, contact:
Bill Allgire: allgirew001@hotmail.com
3. AUGUSTA CHAPTER
CYNTHIA GRZYBOWSKI, PRESIDENT
6968 MOONTOWN DR. EAST
APPLING, GA. 30802
Email: grzybowskic@bellsouth.net
Phone: 706-836-4970
4. CENTRAL TEXAS CHAPTER
CYNTHIA ARCHER, Act. Pres.
E-Email: aqueen6@aol.com
Point of Contact (POC)
Harold Robbins
1220 Corona Dr.
Austin, TX 78723-2512
Email: herobb@austin.rr.com
Phone: 512-452-2692
5. COLUMBIA RIVER CHAPTER
RON CLEMENT, PRESIDENT
4023 SE 178th COURT
VANCOUVER, WASHINGTON 98683
Email: W7QU@amsat.org
*Phone: 360.574.4290
October 2015
AR E A N EW SL ET T ER
6. DIX-MCGUIRE CHAPTER
BETTY J. O’BRIEN, PRESIDENT
15 CARRIAGE DRIVE
EASTAMPTON, NJ 08060
Email: hunterchaseb@aol.com
Phone: 609.288.6425
7. GOLDEN GATE CHAPTER
MARY LOU GEIMER, RECORDING SEC.
1306 ASPEN DRIVE
PACIFICA, CA 94044-3719
Email: MLGeimer@flash.net
Phone: 650.355.5213
Apply for Membership contact:
Nobel Emery, Treasurer
2534 Darrock Ct., Napa, CA 94558
8. GULF COAST CHAPTER
STEVE MITCHELL, PRESIDENT
5960 CROMWELL DRIVE
MILTON, FL. 32571-6347
Email: spmsa@msn.com
Phone: 850.995.8290
9. KANSAS CHAPTER
WANITA HULETT, PRESIDENT
2505 MEADOWLARK ROAD
MILFORD, KS. 66514
Email: rwhull2003@yahoo.com
Phone--785-238-8656
10. KENTUCKIANA CHAPTER
MARGARET BOWERS, PRESIDENT
11103 LEHR ROAD
LOUISVILLE, KY 40272-4542
Email: mmbowers@insightbb.com
Phone: 502.937.9797
11. METRO MONTGOMERY CHAPTER
HOUSTON “JOE” FULLER, PRESIDENT
103 WILLIANS ST.
PRATTVILLE, AL. 36066
Email: joelaura59@aol.com
Phone: 334.365.8930
Pag e 2 8
October 2015
AR E A N EW SL ET T ER
I. ACTIVE CHAPTERS:
(continued)
12. NORTH CAROLINA CHAPTER
RICHARD RAMOS, PRESIDENT
7005 HOLMFIELD DR.
FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28306
Email: rich7652@embarqmail.com
Phone: 910.425.4189
13. NORTH TEXAS CHAPTER
RICHARD SHEFF, PRESIDENT
2317 MISTY TRAIL LANE
FLOWER MOUND, TEXAS 75028
Email: sheffrl@aol.com
Phone: 972.691.1959
Apply for Membership contact:
Jerry Cloud, cloud2@airmail.net
14. NORTHERN CALIFORNIA CHAPTER
JERRI THOMAS, PRESIDENT
4812 ROCKLAND WAY
FAIR OAKS, CA. 95628
Email: RonJerriT@aol.com
Phone: 916.966.1429
15. SOUTH CAROLINA CHAPTER
VERA DEMPSEY, PRESIDENT
169 Fox Crossing Road,
West Columbia, SC 29170
Email: vadempsey@sc.rr.com
Phone: is (803-957-7603)
16. SOUTHEASTERN CHAPTER
JAMES W. MAHONEY, PRESIDENT
975 E LAKEHAVEN WAY
MCDONOUGH, GA 30253-5573
Email: None
Phone: 770.914.8494
Apply for Membership
DAVID PAINTER, VICE-PRESIDENT
Phone: (770) 877-1239
Email: dc61463@yahoo.com
17. VIRGINIA LOVERS CHAPTER
BETTY THORNE, PRESIDENT
11316 WILLOW LANE
DISPUTANTA, VA 23842
Email: bettyandrick@aol.com
Phone: 804.862.1762
18.WEST GEORGIA CHAPTER
ANNIE TOWNSEND, PRESIDENT
5389 CIEOSON DR.
COLUMBUS, GA.31907
Email Townsend54@Yahoo.com
Phone 706-718-2708
II. INFORMAL CHAPTERS:
(Meet from time to time.)
1. PUGET SOUND CHAPTER)
EDITH ODA, POC
11525 MADERA GARDENS DR SW
LAKEWOOD, WA 98499
Email: edieoda@aol.com
Phone: 253.588.2424
2. FT. HOOD AREA
BARBARA MIMS (POC)
Kempner, TX 76539
Email: texasajfan@yahoo.com
254-577-6278
466-3351 Cell
3. TINKER RETIREE GROUP
CATHERINE JONES (POC)
Email: gocaps23666@aol.com
Phone: 405-259-8025
405-204-5019 Cell
AR E A N EW SL ET T ER
October 2015
Pag e 29
AREA Community Service Awards – Fall, 2015
The Retired Employees Association recognizes Exchange Retirees and Associates who volunteer their time and
devote other resources, such as personal knowledge and expertise, to help improve the economic, civic and social
health of the communities where they live and work. Awards are made annually, in the Fall. The Community Service Review Committee, Richard Fregoe, Chairman, and members Chuck Poffenbarger, Jerry Cloud and Don
Streeter review the nominations and, along with the entire AREA membership, recognize Exchange Retirees and
Associates for their commitment to their communities’ well-being.. All recipients are provided with a Certificate of
Appreciation and a recognition letter signed by the program director and president, AREA.
COMMUNITY AWARD RECIPIENTS,
Fall, 2015
We weren’t able to conduct the awards program this Fall due to the injury of the person who
organizes and finalizes the program. The program will be renewed next year.
AREA … JUST FOR YOU !
Pag e 3 0
October 2015
Love that recipe!
AR E A N EW SL ET T ER
To welcome fall, how about a nice bowl of one of my favorite
soups! Please share your favorite recipe with me at
kanemarea@windstream.net and I will publish one or two recipes
in each issue as space permits.
Marcia Kane
Velvety Potato Cheese Soup
Ingredients:
Heat until cheese melts.

3 celery stalks chopped
Just before serving, add:

3 carrots chopped

8 oz. low-fat sour cream

3 green onions chopped

Season with pepper, to suit your taste

If desired, cook 6 slices of bacon (crisp), cut
off all visible fat, and crumble on top of soup
Saute’ the above in 1 Tb. of oil until vegetables are
tender
Add to this mixture:

3 cans of Progresso Potato Soup with Bacon

1 can Nacho Cheese soup

2 cans fat-free chicken broth

8 oz. low-fat Velvetta cheese, cubed
Football Weather Chili
Brown 2 lbs. of hamburger with one medium onion (drain off fat)
Add:

2 large cans whole tomatoes (I smash them with my hand to break them up into smaller clumps)

1/4 cup of sugar

2 cans dark red kidney beans (juice and all)

3 Tbs. flour

3 Tbs. chili powder

About 2 cups of water (more or less as desired for thickness)
Simmer 2 to 3 hours.
Serve with shredded cheese or sour cream on top as desired.
AR E A N EW SL ET T ER
October 2015
P ag e 31
Update on Data Breach
at the Office of Personnel Management (OPM)
In the AREA July newsletter we reported that Homeland Security found a data breach that
may have compromised the personal information of current and former Federal employees. Specially affected were the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the Interior
Department. At that time, we understood that only Exchange associates who retired 10 or
more years ago were potentially at risk. This is because Exchange retiree’s personnel
records are archived and send to the federal records repository in St. Lewis after that period of time. Upon arrival, the retired associate’s name, social security number, and other
personnel identifying information is captured and entered into an OPM database.
Since the initial data breach was discovered, a more significant data breach
occurred. As a result, the Full House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform conducted a hearing on the OPM data breach on June 16.
The Committee held a hearing on June 16, 2015, titled, “OPM: Data Breach.” In prepared testimony, OPM Director
Archuleta stated that “there was a high degree of confidence that OPM systems related to background investigations
of current, former, and prospective Federal government employees, and those for whom a federal background investigation was conducted, may have been compromised.”
During the hearing, OPM Director Archuleta indicated that, “any federal employee from across all branches of government, whose organization submitted service history records to OPM, may have been compromised.” As a result of
the hearings, Ms. Katherine Archuleta, the Director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Manager resigned. Ms. Beth
Cobert took over as Acting Director on July 24.
The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is taking steps to protect the 21.5 million current, former and prospective Federal employees and contractors whose Social Security numbers and other personal information may have
been stolen. For those affected, OPM and the Defense Department will work with a private sector firm to provide services tailored to address potential risks created by this particular incident for at least three years, at no charge. In the
coming weeks, OPM will begin to send notification packages to these individuals, which will provide details on the
incident and information on how to access these services. Also, OPM has launched a new, online incident resource
center at www.opm.gov/cybersecurity that offers information on how to avoiding identity theft and stay safe online.
On-Line Version of the AREA Newsletter is a Big Hit!
“I was 18 months into my retirement, and relocation to Thailand, before finding the time to join the Retired Employees Association. For the first three quarters, it was just nice receiving the Newsletter catching up on what was
going on with the Exchange, and all the folks I'd worked with; who else had retired, and where to. I've always been
fond of paper, rather than E-mail. It wasn't till the arrival of the May 15 issue (mailing time 4 weeks to Thailand)
with $4.31 in postage stamps, that it became very obvious that mailing the Newsletter to me was costing more than
I was paying in dues. I sent off a message requesting that I be switched from snail mail to E-Mail. On 1 July I
received my July Newsletter the same day as every one else. Since I was out of town, I received the Newsletter on
my android. I was really pleased with the image quality. So many of the printed pictures in the Newsletter are a tad
less than sharp. I was able to enlarge the pictures and really take a look at folks I hadn't seen for a good many
years. Regret having waited almost a year to switch to E-Mail delivery, as well as the $17.24 it cost the association
to provide me with paper to crinkle. I am truly a happy camper.” - Bob Boggs
I suggested e-mail for the newsletter about 4 years ago. I love getting my newsletter faster than pony express.
Thanks again.” - Bob Haver
AAFES Retired Employees Association
P.O. Box 380614
Duncanville, TX 75138-0614
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS, TX
PERMIT #1478
DUES ALERT!
If the last time you renewed your dues was in September 2015 or earlier,
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above.
AAFES Retired Employees Association
Help Us Save Money! Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail.
The difference in cost is significant*, and you’ll enjoy these advantages:
Get the Newsletter first, before anyone else. E-mail is faster than snail-mail.
The Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) format is in color and you can transfer/save the file
as you desire.
*Per copy print cost at $1.42 + mailing at $0.57 = $1.99 cost per copy. Do yourself and AREA a favor
– try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment.
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver, Membership Director, at ken-pat@sbcglobal.net and state that you would like
to get the Newsletter on line and we’ll do the rest. Give it a try. If you don’t like it, we can always add you back
to the snail-mail list.
AREA—JUST FOR YOU