Retired Teachers Since 1926 Association of Chicago
VOL. LXXII n NO. 1 News Bulletin SPRING 2017 Focus on Springfield RTAC Advocacy in Action
1.
2. RTAC has worked on behalf of Chicago’s has been increasing steadily while the number Retired Teachers to protect pensions and of active members has declined. Wednesday, benefits for more than 90 years, holding March 1, 2017, Linda R. Williams, 1st Vice legislators accountable and protecting the President, traveled to Springfield to testify on rights of retirees. The work continued this behalf of SB1354 at the Licensed Activities spring as the 100th Illinois General Assembly and Pensions Committee (see photo at right). opened and our organization took decisive RTAC encourages all members to support action to support our members and RTAC’s this important legislation by contacting local 3. 2017 Legislative Agenda. legislators and asking them to vote YES on 1. March 1, 2017, RTAC First these bills. SB 1354 AND HB 3071 Vice President Linda R. Williams “We know that when we work together, we traveled to Springfield to testify during RTAC supports HB 3071 sponsored by can achieve success,” said RTAC President the Senate Licensed Activities and Pensions Committee in support of SB Illinois Representative Robert Martwick Patricia B. Kubistal, Ph.D. “This past year we (D-Chicago), and SB 1354 sponsored 1354. She’s pictured with Sen. Michael have seen our tax levy restored and much of Hastings (D- Frankfort), the sponsor by Illinois Senator Michael Hastings the credit goes to our members who worked of the bill. 2. Illinois Representative (D-Frankfort), which would increase our to make sure that Legislators understood the Robert Martwick (D-Chicago) representation from three seats to four on the importance of stable funding. We hope that addressed the RTAC Board of Directors Chicago Teachers’ Pension Fund (CTPF) we can achieve the same success with our during the March 1, 2017, meeting. 3. RTAC Legislative Chairperson Juanita Board of Trustees. There are currently 12 current legislative agenda, and we’re counting Trustees on the CTPF Board; 6 are active Jordan attended the inauguration on our membership to help share the message.” ceremony of the 100th Illinois General members and 3 retirees. The number of See page 5 for more information on RTAC’s Assembly on Wednesday, January retirees and beneficiaries covered by the Fund 11, 2017, as a guest of her State spring advocacy efforts. Representative Al Riley (D-Hazel Crest). RETIRED TEACHERS ASSOCIATION OF CHICAGO (RTAC) TABLE OF CONTENTS 111 North Wabash Avenue, Suite 2010, Chicago, Illinois 60602 n www.RTAC.org
Since 1926, the Retired Teachers Association of Chicago (RTAC), an independent, non-profit, 501(c) 4 organization, has worked to protect the pensions of retired Chicago Public School (CPS) 3 SPRING NEWS UPDATE educators. RTAC is not governed by or a part of CPS, the Chicago Teachers’ Pension Fund (CTPF) or RTAC Membership Recruiting, Spring Seminars, Candidates the Chicago Teachers’ Union (CTU). The RTAC Board of Directors meets monthly. RTAC members Sought for Directorships, in good standing are welcome to attend; check www.rtac.org for the current meeting schedule. Armstrong Award Nominations, CTPF Trustee Endorsements, RTAC NEWS BULLETIN Spring Luncheon, and Dental The News Bulletin is distributed free of charge to RTAC members three times per year. Insurance. RTAC welcomes submissions on topics relevant to members. Material will be published as space allows, and may be edited. Send typed submissions to [email protected]. 5 LEGISLATIVE ADVOCATES REPORT EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 6 WEBMASTER’S MESSAGE Sylvia Asllani Patricia B. Kubistal Roy Coleman President Secretary Linda R. Williams John A. Butterfield 6 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S First Vice President Treasurer MESSAGE Ralph A. Juss David T. Peterson Arlene R. Crandall Second Vice President Immediate Past President 7 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Patricia B. Kubistal, Ph.D. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 8 MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION Arlene R. Crandall Join, Renew, Refer a Friend today and receive the benefits of ELECTED DIRECTORS membership throughout the year 2017-2018 2016-2017 Rita M. Naughton Eva Nickolich 9 DONATION FORM Elizabeth Cittadine James Patrick Roy Coleman John Reilly One form, three ways to make a George Drelios Louella B. Preston John Garvey Mary Sharon difference! Kevin B. Huber Dianne Yonkers Juanita Jordan Reilly 10 NEW LIFE MEMBERS Hubert C. Jackson, Jr. Carlene Lutz Maria J. Rodriguez 10 LEGAL DEFENSE FUND GIFTS EX-OFFICIO BOARD MEMBERS Including President’s Circle gifts PAST PRESIDENTS Ned L. McCray Walter E. Pilditch 11 DONATIONS Vaughn J. Barber Marcella L. Morrison Zygmunt Sokolnicki Gifts to the Chicago Retired Steven Kailes Edward A. O’Farrell Teachers Aid Fund, Retired Robert C. Konen Ethel Philpott Teachers Association of Chicago, and COPE gifts RTAC SERVICE DIRECTORY 12 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES RTAC Office hours: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. school days 1-312-750-1522 14 SPRING LUNCHEON INVITATION RTAC E-mail [email protected] Join us for a gala event on Monday, Chicago Teachers’ Pension Fund (CTPF) May 22, 2017, featuring Keynote 203 N. LaSalle St., Suite 2600, Chicago, IL 60601-1231 1-312-641-4464 Speaker Lily Liu. See page 15 for your invitation and additional CTPF Health Insurance Information 1-312-641-4464 information.
Annual Membership $50 Lifetime Membership $300
2 SPRING NEWS UPDATE RTAC Prospective CPS Retiree Outreach Monday, February 20, 2017, RTAC’s spearheaded the effort to engage prospective Membership Committee was joined by retirees and share information about RTAC President Patricia B. Kubistal, RTAC’s programs and goals. Similar Secretary Sylvia Asllani, Executive Director meetings will be held on Tuesday, April 12- 1 Arlene Crandall and Directors George 13, 2017, at the Chicago Teachers’ Pension Drelios and Eva Nickolich to meet with Fund headquarters in Chicago. more than 500 current teachers who Pictures from the Feb. 20 CTPF retirement attended a Chicago Teachers Pension Fund seminar: 1. Membership Committee chair Pre-Retirement Seminar at the Oak Lawn Hubert C. Jackson, Jr., with a prospective Hilton Hotel. Membership Committee member at the seminar. 2. RTAC President Chairperson Hubert C. Jackson, Jr. and Patricia B. Kubistal, Ph.D., shares RTAC information with a prospective member. 2 Committee Secretary Maria Rodriguez Lifelong Learners: Join us for a Spring 2017 Seminar April May Tuesday, April 18, 2017, 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 30, 2017, 10:00 a.m. Strategies to Prevent Outliving Your The ABCs of New LTCs Resources Presented by Michael Broadus Presented by Janice Axelrod and Michael Vasilou, Better Benefits Family Group June Wednesday, June 8, 2017, 10:00 a.m. Thursday, April 20, 2017, 10:00 a.m. Affordable Long Term Care/Life RTAC is proud to announce five Retirees’ Income Choices and Cash Insurance Hybrid Policies Without spring 2017 seminars. These programs Flow Presented by Bill Blyth & Associates Premium Increases Presented by Ward are provided at no charge to our members. Powell, Estate Plan Chicago Most programs begin at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 25, 2017, 10:00 a.m. Windows 10 and PC Security (unless otherwise noted) and generally Thursday, June 15, 2017, 10:00 a.m. Presented by Roy Coleman, RTAC conclude by noon. Space is limited to Mature Mens’ and Womens’ Health Webmaster 20 participants per program. Please call Presented by Dr. Olalawu Fayanju, 1-312-750-1522 to make a reservation. Medical Director, Oak Street Health More information about our workshops and seminars can be found on the ‘Workshops’ page at RTAC.ORG
CANDIDATES SOUGHT FOR 2018-2019 RTAC DIRECTORSHIPS RTAC is seeking nominees for eight 3. Be prepared to work collaboratively. found at www.rtac.org on the directorships for the biennium 2018- 4. Attend monthly meetings (generally FORMS page. You may also 2019. Per the RTAC Bylaws, any member the first Wednesday of the month). request that a fillable a form be in good standing can self nominate. e-mailed to you by contacting 5. Engage new and current CTPF retiree Candidates must meet the following the RTAC office. annuitants to join RTAC. qualifications: 6. Offer constructive ideas to support the Applications are due April 30, 2017. CANDIDATE QUALIFICATIONS organization’s goals. The 2017 Nominating Committee will interview the 2018-2019 candidates in 1. Possess computer competency (either 7. Participate in activities which focus late spring 2017. Windows or Macintosh). upon the organization’s mission. 2. Have regular access to the Internet to Nomination forms in both MSWord All RTAC members are encouraged to send/receive information. (.doc) or fillable Adobe pdf format can be give serious consideration to becoming Directors. 3 SPRING NEWS UPDATE 2017 Armstrong Award Nominations RTAC Dental Insurance RTAC is seeking nominations for the 2017 RTAC members in good standing are James E. Armstrong Award. The award eligible to access one of RTAC’s is named in honor of RTAC’s founding MetLife Dental insurance plans. President, James E. Armstrong. Armstrong, Annual RTAC members who together with a small group of concerned enroll must maintain their RTAC Chicago Public School retirees, established membership to qualify. RTAC in 1926 to preserve and protect Option 1 offers comprehensive Chicago public school educators’ pensions. services and Option 2 offers a lower-cost Any RTAC member in good standing option with limited coverage. can nominate another member in good Both plans cover primary services such standing to be acknowledged for his/her Marion Hoffing, the 2016 Armstrong Award as oral exams and biannual cleanings. outstanding commitment, dedication, Recipient. Dependent coverage is available. and service to RTAC and or the Chicago RTAC MetLife Dental program Retired Teachers Aid Fund, Inc. The previous Armstrong Award honorees were members can also access a free vision care Nate Blackman – 2012, Helen P. Johnson – 2013, Vaughn J. Barber – 2014, service plan which includes discounts James F. Ward – 2015, and Marion Hoffing – 2016. on prescription eyeglasses, contact The criteria and nomination forms in either MSWord or Adobe pdf are available on the lenses, laser vision correction, and non- FORMS page at www.rtac.org. You may also request a fillable form be e-mailed to you prescription sunglasses. Contact RTAC at by contacting the RTAC office. Nominations are to be submitted to Linda R. Williams, 1-312-750-1522 for information. RTAC First Vice President c/o [email protected] on or before Friday, April 14, 2017. The 2017 Armstrong Award will be presented during the 2017 RTAC 91st Spring Luncheon SPRING LUNCHEON KEYNOTE and General Membership meeting on Monday, May 22, 2017. A luncheon invitation and SPEAKER general membership meeting announcement appears on page 15 of this RTAC News Bulletin and at www.rtac.org. RTAC will hold its 91st Annual Luncheon and General Membership RTAC Endorsements meeting on May 22, 2017, ELECTION 2017 CTPF Retiree Trustee at the Hilton Chicago. 2017 BOARD OF TRUSTEES ELECTION In November 2017, Chicago Teachers Pension Fund retirees Keynote Speaker Lilly Liu will elect three CTPF retiree trustees to represent the Fund’s The keynote speaker will be Lilly Liu, retired Chicago Public School educators. the AARP archivist emeritus and expert Any candidates wishing to secure the Retired Teachers Association of Chicago on the life of Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus. endorsement for their candidacy must send an e-mail with the following information: Dr. Andrus, a pioneering educator, dedicated her retirement years to n One-page professional resume; and work for elder rights and founded two n Personal statement of 300 words or less outlining the specific goals and objectives national membership organizations. She which the candidate expects to undertake during his/her term of office as a trustee established the National Retired Teachers representing retirees. A candidate who has previously served as a trustee should include Association in 1947 (RTAC is a founding information about his/her previous accomplishment at CTPF. member), and AARP in 1958. She was inducted into the National Women’s Hall Send materials to Arlene R. Crandall, RTAC Executive Director, [email protected], of Fame in 1993. by April 30, 2017. Candidates seeking RTAC’s endorsement are also expected to appear in person and make Ms. Liu will share highlights of her a three minute presentation to the RTAC Executive Board and the RTAC Directors at fascinating work. Plan to join us for this the June 7, 2017, RTAC Board meeting. special opportunity. Find additional information on page 15. 4 SPRING NEWS UPDATE RTAC Legislative Advocates’ Spring 2017 Report
By Richard Lockhart, John Carr, the benefits of which shall not be and Bukola Bello “diminished or impaired.” Editor’s Note: RTAC works on behalf of This provision, has been upheld by the retirees through many channels, and engages courts and is the basis for pension security advocates who educate Illinois legislators. for our members.
This report looks ahead to 2017. We must defeat any effort to repeal The Illinois General Assembly is in this clause when it comes up for a vote session and will adjourn May 31, 2017. in the House Committee in the next Pension legislation in the form of bills, few months. RTAC’s Advocacy team is amendments to prior bills, and proposals prepared to lead in that effort. to amend the State Constitution will be We will focus on defeating that proposal introduced and voted on in February, while it is still in the House of Representa- March, April, and May. tives, and your assistance will be required. RTAC’s legislative advocacy team of Also, we urge all RTAC members to reach Bukola Bello, John Carr, and Dick out to other CPS retirees and encourage Lockhart lead the group’s efforts to stop them to join RTAC now. harmful legislation in Springfield. SB11 This report reviews current legislative RTAC legislative advocates Richard Lockhart efforts of interest to RTAC members. A pension reform proposal continues and Bukola Bello (not pictured John Carr). to make its way through the Illinois Senate. The President of the Illinois HJRCA 18 This is appropriate given the increasing Senate sponsored a major pension reform House Joint Resolution Constitutional numbers of retirees joining CTPF ranks. package, SB11, that radically changes Amendment 18 is a troubling proposal benefits for some Illinois State employees We urge your support on SB 1354 and which aims to amend the Illinois and teachers. encourage you to reach out to your Constitution pension protection clause. individual legislators. While SB11 does not impact current In Illinois, the Legislature can put a retirees, it does affect current Chicago proposed Constitutional Amendment on Get Involved teachers. One of the troubling sections the November ballot with a three-fifths requires employees to make an irrevocable We urge all RTAC members to get to vote of the House and Senate. This must election to reduce the current 3% know their State legislators during these take place by early May, which means it compounded AAI to a simple interest difficult budgetary times in Chicago and will first be voted on by members of the calculation that is maxed out at 3% simple Springfield. Check the website for future House and Senate Executive Committees interest. This seemingly small change will legislative updates and information on in March or April. If approved, the cost current teachers thousand of dollars what promises to be a very challenging measure will appear on the statewide in pension income when they retire. 2017 in Illinois politics. ballot in November 2018. RTAC has not taken a position on SB11. HJRCA 18, introduced by Joe Sosnowski (R-Rockford.), would repeal the clause SB 1354 in the Illinois constitution that specifies SB1354, sponsored by Senator Michael that membership in any pension or Hastings (D-Frankfort) adds a fourth retirement system of the State, any unit of retiree trustee to the CTPF Board of local government or school district, or any Trustees. The measure would amplify the agency or instrumentality thereof shall be retiree voice in Fund governance, an enforceable contractual relationship,
5 CONTACT INFORMATION WEBMASTER’S MESSAGE With the new legislative session, it is important that you are aware of how to Communication is a two-way street.... reach your legislators, either in person, by phone, or by letter should there be an Webmaster introduction of legislation affecting our Roy Coleman pensions. By now most of you are familiar with RTAC Alert members recently received a Apple’s Siri, Amazon Echo’s Alexa and, personalized e-mail with their legislator’s maybe Microsoft’s Cortana but did you contact information. Not a member of know that, unless specifically turned off, the Alert Network? Feeling left out? all of them are listening to everything No problem, just send an e-mail to you say and all of the sounds around [email protected] with the subject them. Besides just listening, they may ‘RTAC Alert’. Include your name and As for somebody watching you through also be used to record and respond to the 9-digit zip code so we can determine your your computer or smart phone, the easiest voices and sounds within their ‘hearing’ legislative districts. way to prevent this intrusion is to put a range. The best example was when a TV sticky note over the camera lens. The RTAC website also has this station played a segment which contained information. Start at the Legislation the words “Alexa, buy me a doll house.” April 25, 2017, I will be doing a RTAC and Advocacy tab (in the center of the and a fair number of people had orders workshop on this and similar topics. homepage) where you’ll find links to help generated as a result. If you do not want Attendance is by reservation, so reserve you determine who represents you and your comments or sounds broadcast, keep ASAP. See page 3 or the workshop page at how to contact them. these devices turned off! www.rtac.org for more information.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE retirees. This is why every retired CPS contributing to pension funds. According educator needs to maintain ongoing to the article, the pensions of more than contact with legislators to express our 100 million government workers around concerns and remind them that they need the globe are in jeopardy. to take positive action on our behalf. When pensioners’ incomes stagnate, their BETTER NEWS Arlene R. purchasing power is diminished, and local Last year the Illinois General Assembly Crandall economies are negatively impacted. passed SB318 which reinstated our tax levy which ensures stable funding. RTAC CHALLENGING NEWS Two situations reflect the problem clearly. First, it has been a decade is working to ensure that the levy becomes Fellow RTAC members, sometimes it is since the Netherlands-based Stichting a reality, not just a possibility. best to look at challenges first. Pensionenfonds ABP, which is Europe’s Current CTPF retirees almost equal the One might think that Illinois’ pension largest pension fund, provided its retiree number of current CPS educators, but we difficulties are unique. However, that is annuitants with an annual cost-of-living only have 3 out of 12 seats on the CTPF not the case. A November 14, 2016, Wall increase. In Japan, where 25% of the Board of Trustees. RTAC is supporting Street Journal article, “Low Rates Hammer population is pension eligible, pensioners HB3071 sponsored by Representative Pensions,” focused upon the distressed can expect to have their pensions reduced Robert Martwick, and SB1354, sponsored plight of governmental agency pension as their ages increase. by Senator Michael Hastings, which funds across the world. Recognizing that our situation is not increase our representation from three The article identifies the causes of the unique is small comfort as we reflect seats to four. Please be sure to inform problem – higher longevity rates, low upon our personal concerns. As of June your Illinois Senator and Representative interest rates, risky investment strategies, 30, 2016, our Chicago Teachers Fund that you want them to VOTE YES for two recessions, and underfunding. Also, (CTPF), had assets which only covered these two bills. Working together we can at present there are fewer employees 52% of its liabilities to present and future amplify our voices and reach our goal. 6 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
with a 50% subsidy for their health insurance premiums. The State of Illinois does not provide us with funds for health Have a comment or idea insurance. The State of Illinois allows CTPF to take money from our pension to share? Contact me at fund in the amount of $65 million dollars per year, and use it to subsidize health [email protected] insurance premiums. With the increase in the number of retirees and the increase in health insurance premiums, our subsidy Express Scripts or Humana (depending on has gone from 90% of our monthly your plan), administers the prescription insurance premium to its current 50%. drug programs for CTPF participants. As these trends continue the subsidy may WINDFALL ELIMINATION be less in the years to come because the Patricia B. Kubistal, Ph.D. amount CTPF can spend has been capped All CTPF retirees are subject to the Windfall Elimination Provision which I want to begin by thanking you for the at $65 million. says that a retiree who receives a pension opportunity to serve as your president for At age 65 every American is expected to from a governmental agency in addition the next two years. This is my first column, apply for Medicare. Individuals who have to Social Security may receive a portion and I look forward to working on behalf acquired 40 quarters of Social Security of the Social Security check to which of our members to make sure that RTAC coverage receive Part A (hospital) they are entitled. For example, if you continues to uphold our long tradition of coverage free. To determine if you have 40 were entitled to a Social Security check of protecting CPS retired educators. quarters of coverage, contact your local $1,000, your payment may be reduced by Social Security Office. Those who have I will use this column as a space to answer as much as 60% so you receive $400. From not acquired forty quarters of coverage your questions and provide information that $400, Medicare Part B and Medicare must pay for Part A. Part B coverage, you may find helpful as you navigate Part D premiums would be deducted. which pays for doctor’s visits, physical retirement. If you do not have sufficient funds from therapy, etc., and Part D, prescription your Social Security check to cover the drug coverage, are additional costs. LEGISLATIVE ISSUES premiums for Part B and Part D, you are Among the many things retirees hold as All CTPF-sponsored Medicare plans billed for the difference. With increasing important are their pension check and include Medicare Part D prescription costs, retirees who once had these amounts their health insurance. During these drug coverage. It’s important to remember deducted from their Social Security check, challenging times, RTAC is monitoring that if you are currently enrolled, or are now being informed that their Social legislation which impacts pensions. To plan to enroll, in a CTPF Medicare Security check is insufficient to cover these be an effective force RTAC needs your insurance plan for 2017, you should not costs. They, therefore, must make up the support by contacting legislators to enroll in an additional Medicare Part D difference. It’s important to make timely vote on issues which impact our pension prescription drug plan, or you will lose all payments to avoid losing your health checks. I thank you for all of your past CTPF health insurance coverage. Some insurance coverage. efforts of contacting your legislators. I individuals with higher incomes will pay am counting on you to be vigilant about more for Part D coverage (IRMAA). KEEP IN TOUCH legislation, and to continue to respond to Medicare will bill you directly for this I want to be a resource for you, so our alerts when we reach out and ask you cost. The CTPFHealth Insurance please feel free to reach out to me with to contact your legislator. Handbook has more information about comments or ideas. Contact me at Part D drug coverage. [email protected]. I look forward HEALTH INSURANCE Retirees often ask, “If the CTPF plan to hearing from you. Health insurance is an issue of national covers prescription drugs, why do I have concern. Health costs, including to pay Part D?” The answer is that CTPF prescription drugs, will continue to rise. Medicare Plans include Part D insurance Currently, CTPF provides its members in their coverage. A third party, either 7 Moving? New Address? Don’t miss out! Retired Teachers Use this form to share your new address and stay Association of Chicago in touch! Membership Application/Change of Address Form Please use this form to: n Renew your annual membership n Join the Retired Teachers n Join the RTAC E-Mail Alert Team Association of Chicago (RTAC) n Change your address
GENERAL INFORMATION: PLEASE PRINT
Your Name:______
Address:______
City:______State:______Zip Code:______
Date of Birth:______Phone:______
Retired in Year:______Position:______
From:______(name of Chicago Public School)
Social Security Number: xxx-xx-______(last 4 digits only for verification purposes — your confidentiality is assured.)
Did a current RTAC member refer you? q Yes q No If yes, please list name of referring member:______
JOIN OR RENEW MY MEMBERSHIP Enclosed is my check number ______dated ______made payable to RTAC.
q Enroll me as a new annual member $50 q Renew my annual membership $50 q Enroll me as a life member $300 Please return this form and a check to: RTAC, 111 North Wabash Avenue, Suite 2010, Chicago, IL 60602
RTAC Alert E-mail Network Join our RTAC E-Mail Alert Team to receive time-sensitive information about your pension. Non-CPS e-mail address:______(Your CPS e-mail address terminates when you retire)
Change of Address Notification If the address listed above is new, please complete the section below: q Please note effective date for new address:
(date: mm/dd/yy) ______/ ______/ ______THIS FORM IS AVAILABLE ONLINE AT WWW.RTAC.ORG 8 MAKE A DONATION: MAKE A DIFFERENCE A donation to the Legal Defense Fund, Chicago Retired Teachers Aid Fund (CRTAF) or RTAC is a meaningful way to show your support for your pension or to honor or memorialize a friend or loved one. All donations of $20 or more will be recognized in print. Return this form with your payment to: RTAC, 111 North Wabash Avenue, Suite 2010, Chicago, Illinois 60602.
"RTAC Fights for Your CTPF Pension
Legislation Aimed at RTAC Success.... YOUR CTPF pension RTAC LEGAL DEFENSE FUND (LDF) DONATION
Remove health Additional ‘Pension R PENS insurance subsidy U IO Holidays’ prevented O N Y RTAC established a Legal Defense Fund to pay legal fees for a lawsuit when the Illinois General Assembly enacts
Reduce the annual cost Fighting for fair of living increase (AAI) CTPFlegislation pension funding which diminishes CTPF pensions and/or ancillary benefits.Donors contributing $100 or more are
Impose an Illinois News Bulletin News pension income tax Defeatedacknowledged Constitutional as President’s Circle Members in the . Donations of $20 or more are recognized in the Amendment #49
For more details on the RetiRed teacheRs association of chicago (RTAC) Bulletin LDF donations are NOT tax deductible. actions listed above, see . the ‘Illinois’ section of the Illinois faces a revenue crisis and legislators are aiming at YOUR CTPF pension to Legislation and Lobbying fix the problem. RTAC leads the fight for retired Chicago Public School educators page on our website who face unprecedented challenges to their retirement security. Join the fight. (RTAC.ORG). Support RTAC with a gift to our Legal Defense Fund. Together we will make sure that pensionEnclosed thieves miss the mark. is my check number ______amount $______dated______payable to RTAC LDF. Donor’s Name:______q Check box if this gift is anonymous Address:______City:______State:______Zip Code:______Phone:______" CHICAGO RETIRED TEACHERS AID FUND (CRTAF) DONATION SEE: WWW.CRTAF.ORG CRTAF is a 501(c)3 charitable organization established in 1986 to assist retired CPS teachers and administrators in challenging financial circumstances. CRTAF donations are tax deductible as allowed by law. Donations of $20 or more will be recognized in the News Bulletin. Enclosed is my check number ______amount $______dated______payable to CRTAF. Donor’s Name:______q Check box if this gift is anonymous Address:______City:______State:______Zip Code:______Phone:______Please indicate purpose of gift q congratulate q celebrate q memorialize q general purposes Honoree’s Name:______Address:______City:______State:______Zip Code:______" RETIRED TEACHERS ASSOCIATION (RTAC) DONATION RTAC is a 501(c)4 organization established in 1926 to protect and enhance the pensions of retired CPS educators. RTAC donations are NOT tax deductible. Donations of $20 or more will be recognized in the News Bulletin. Enclosed is my check number ______amount $______dated______payable to RTAC. Donor’s Name:______q Check box if this gift is anonymous Address:______City:______State:______Zip Code:______Phone:______Please indicate purpose of gift q congratulate q celebrate q memorialize q general purposes Honoree’s Name:______Address:______City:______State:______Zip Code:______
THESE FORMS ARE AVAILABLE ONLINE AT WWW.RTAC.ORG 9 NEW LIFE MEMBERS NOV. 1, 2016- JAN. 31, 2017
PATRICIA ADNEY JOYCE COMBEST BARBARA L. HANDLER MYRNA D. LAINEZ KATHERINE BARBARA B. ANDERSON JUANITA T. COY MARIA HARA KAREN LARSON-FORD PONCE DE LEON KAREN ANDERSON JACQUELYN E. CROOK HERBERT HERMAN MARCUS LOVE MARTHA POOL MARIA D. ARAUJO MARY THERESE DALY JANET HOWARD LAURA LUPE ANN RABIN JACQUELINE A BAKER BLANCA DE LA GARZA PAULA JACKO BEVERLY MALLETTE PERRY G. RILEY RICHARD J. BAN NADINE N DILLANADO LOIS H JOHNSON MARY A. MANDERNACH CAROLYN SHERE CORALIA BARRAZA THOMAS E DREW BARBARA JOSEPH PHYLLIS MARKOVITCH RITA SMITH ALAN I. BERKSON ANA MARIA ESPINOZA PATRICIA A. KAMAR EMMA MC CORMICK KATHLEEN R. YVONNE E BLACK LISA M. FERA SAFIYA KARIMAH VERA MC DONALD SNOREWICZ GROVER G. BOONE SUSAN M. FOSHINBAUR JUDITH L. KEATING JOHNELLA MC KINNOR SHARON A. SPENCER VERA E. BOONE MARILYN GALIK JOYCE KELLEY JOYCE M MERRIWETHER CAROL A. STRONG STEPHANIE BUFORD GAYLON L. GARNER JOSEPH M. KIEFER GEORGE M. MORAN DOROTHY G TARR MICHELE D MARY PATRICIA MYRTLE A. KILCREASE DEVEEREE MORGAN ROSEMARIE VONDRA BUTTERMORE GERARD EVA H. KOBAYASHI MARTIN B. MORGAN LOUIS WARD MARTHA CERDA CAROL GILES ANN KROLL GLORIA MOYER THELMA L. WATSON ROSE CHEN VOULA GLOWER GERRY KULANS PATRICIA B. OATES JOHN WHITFIELD LYDIA V. COLUNGA GERALD HALE LORETTA KUNOVIC JEROME L. O’MARA ROBERT ZAGAR RTAC Fights for Your CTPF Pension LOIS RAINEY OWENS Legislation Aimed at RTAC Success.... YOUR CTPF pension
Remove health Additional ‘Pension R PENS insurance subsidy U IO Holidays’ prevented O N Y LEGAL DEFENSE FUND GIFTS LDF Surpasses
Reduce the annual cost Fighting for fair of living increase (AAI) CTPF pension fundingNOV. 1, 2016- JAN. 31, 2017 85K Impose an Illinois pension income tax Defeated Constitutional Amendment #49
For more details on the RetiRed teacheRs association of chicago (RTAC) actions listed above, see the ‘Illinois’ section of the Illinois faces a revenue crisis and legislators are aiming at YOUR CTPF pension to Legislation and Lobbying fix the problem. RTAC leads the fight for retired Chicago Public School educators page on our websiteRTAC who face unprecedented has challenges to establishedtheir retirement security. Join the fight. a legal defense fund for the purpose of initiating legal action to protect (RTAC.ORG). Support RTAC with a gift to our Legal Defense Fund. Together we will make sure CTPFthat pension thieves missPension the mark. benefits. Gifts of $100 or more are acknowledged as President’s Circle members. 250 $250,000 President’s Circle Members (donations of $100 or more) Anonymous (3) Dever, Judy M. Lalley, James C., Jr. & Semenek, Alvarez, Alejandra Dickson, Nathaniel Peggy J. George & Linda 200 Anderson, Donald H. Dynis, Richard M. Maynard, Lynne Simmons, Edward A. Baker, Barbara J. Farwick, Diane M. McCall, Anna-Marie Smolak, Susan J. Bart, Robert J. Fassbender, Janet K. McCormick, John J. Stoller, Myron 150 Batson, Helen P. Feaman, Scott Means, Constance E. Sumanas Wright, Donna Bell, Martha W. Ferguson, Pauline E. Moscinski, Swiercz, Bennett, Dr. Beverly J. Fogarty, Mary F. John & Donna Roman & Sharon Blyth and Associates Fowler, Rachel Nachman, Janet N. Talley, Abraham100 Bogs, Roberta K. Hebert, Martha M. O’Keefe, Margaret J. Tocwish, Dr. Victor Richardson, Rickard K. Uchida, Dianna Boor, Maureen Heinen, Jeanne E. 60 Broyls, Eugene & Issacs, Arleen S. Robinson, Josephine I. Wallace, Helen Marie 40 Nancille M. Jackson-Hicks, Rubin, Diane C. Walton-Todd, $87,170 Butterfield, John A. Barbara L. Ruyack, Edward J. Dr. Linda B.25 Samples, Dolores M. White, Richard R. Colburn, Timothy R. Jasmick, Adam Jr. 0 Coleman, Roy Johnson, Nancy M. Sanders, Richard H. Jr. Whiting-Smith, Josie B. Connolly, Angela P. Johnson, Vivian Santelli, Marsha Williams, Barbara A. Dalin, George D. Kenny, Patrick J. Schlaggar, Sheila Yonkers, Dianne I. Daniel-Bruce, Eva Kuncius, Susan C.
Other Gifts Your continued support of Anonymous (6) Corpus, Dolores J. Jackson, Joyce Owens, Evelyn Sampson, the Legal Defense Fund is Anglin, Phillip H. Eaton, Betty G. Jackson, Thomas Ozmina, Sheila Dionioes M. vital. Donors are listed in Aslanides, Einoder, Camille E. Jarvis, Rose Ann Pagliaro, Michael J. Stocking, MaryAnn the News Bulletin, and gifts Anthony A. Fitzgibbons, John J. Knight, Charlotte Pekar, Anthony F. Stork, John R. of $100 or more are listed in Ban, Richard J. Gadbois, Claire Laux, Janet Renz, Mark Vitullo, Irene Krull Boeker, Marilyn A. Gerstein, Shayle J. Lutz, Carlene Rockwell, Martin Wanzung, Daniel the President’s Circle. Find a Cerda, Martha A. Grieco, Lucille Murdock, Patricia C. Rozanski, Patricia P. Webb, Ann C. donation form on page 9. Clancy, Gloria K. Grisham, Frances Nahrwold, Lori Wister, Antonia R. 10 CHICAGO RETIRED TEACHERS AID FUND GIFTS NOV. 1, 2016- JAN. 31, 2017
DONOR IN MEMORY OF DONOR IN MEMORY OF DONOR PURPOSE Anonymous Angela M. Moscinski, John & Hannibal Afrik, Daniel-Bruce, Eva General Purposes Scalia Holden Donna Kenneth Cink Delta Kappa Gamma Celebrate deceased Carter, Wilhelmina Karies B. Carter Pruchnicki, Patricia Denning- Beta Alpha Chapter Members Carol Lynn Golden Derbas, Therese Maura Smith Delta Kappa Gamma All Chicago Kappa Chapter Retired Teachers Gardner, David C. & Ellen Jordan, Stocking, Nancietta Harold Kiehm Rita C. Mary Ann Peterson Gamble, Denise M. General Purposes Stork, Anna M. Marge Bruzzini, Iz Byrne, Glapa, Barbara T. General Purposes Koch, Jewel Ursula Maethner Sharonjoy Jackson, Dominic Savickas, Levitan, David General Purposes Laughlin, Larry Joseph Stepanek Terri Zeman Lutz, Carlene In Honor of Lemke, Karen L. Tanna Mattingly Veitmanis, Elga Diana Dionesotes, Marion Hoffing Adele Wagner Lyles, John & Bonita Bonnie Bowen McCall, Ann-Marie Honor of Cole CPC LDF Surpasses Marcus, Ann Mary Rita Boland DONOR PURPOSE Maison Rosen, Sandra General Purposes 85K Massey, Jayne M. Florence Summerhill Anonymous (9) General Purposes Pedone, Rita General Purposes Metz, Roberta Sue Marjorie Breitenreiter, Abarbanell, Sampson, General Purposes Helen Gallagher, Charlotte A. General Purposes Dionioes M. Roger Koenig, Ursula Maethner, Boeker, Marilyn A. General Purposes Semisch, Martha General Purposes Arlene O’Brien Calderon, Esperanza General Purposes Wallace, Helen Marie Assist retired CPS educators in Cornelius, Melvyn General Purposes challenging financial circumstances RTAC GIFTS COPE GIFTS NOV. 1, 2016- JAN. 31, 2017 NOV. 1, 2016- JAN. 31, 2017
DONOR IN MEMORY OF DONOR PURPOSE Anonymous (4)
Dallas, Theodore T. Antoinette Barnes Anonymous (4) General Purposes Boeker, Marilyn
Lopez, Imelda C. Julio P. Lopez Boeker, Marilyn General Purposes Clancy, Gloria K.
Pruchnicki, Michael A. Pruchnicki, Jonesi, Carole In Honor of Daisy Driss’ McCall, Anna-Marie Carol Lynn Domenick Pecchia, 110th Birthday Michaeline Rojek Merwin, Peter M. Celebrate Carl Santelli, Marsha John Delin Sandburg, Donald Steinhardt Looking for Stork, Anna M. Iz Byrne, the perfect Marge Bruzzini, Mitchell, Edward B. General Purposes Sharonjoy Jackson, gift? Dominic Savickas, Rhodes, Sonja Y. General Purposes Honor a friend of Terri Zeman loved one with a donation to Serota, Alvin & General Purposes CRTAF or recognize someone Van Bruggen, Shirley Jacob Van Bruggen Beverly truly special with a lifetime Taus, Elizabeth General Purposes membership to RTAC. See Wojtulewicz, Melanie Andrea Kerr, pages 8-9. Lorraine Leknick- Bushnell
11 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Many retired teachers Contact Agency Location Person Phone find working for a worthy A. C. E. S. Chicago Eric Werge 773-535-6922 cause as a volunteer AARP Chicago Loretta Hilsher 847-571-5514 extremely satisfying. The AHS (Adult ESL and Literacy) Chicago Northside Robbin Kotajarvi 773-293-8139 following organizations Alex Haley Academy Chicago South Karen Demots 773-371-3661 are among Anixter Center (Literacy) Chicago North Lesley Kartali 773-929-8200x265 those who have asked us for help in recruiting. RTAC ANS Preparatory Institute Chicago-North Doris Franklin 773-442-6192 does not endorse Aquinas Center (ESL) (Literacy) Chicago Near South Alison Altmeyer 773-927-0512 any organization. Burr Oak School South Suburbs Natashia Harris 708-388-8010
Cabrini Connection (Mentor Tutor) Chicago Near North Daniel Bassill 312-467-2889
CASA (Court Appointed Special Cook County L. Robinson-Locke 312-467-6987 Advocate)
Chicago Distance Classic Chicago Central Dani Chitwood 217-390-1163
Chicago Hopes for Kids (Literacy) Chicago-Near West Morgan Oliver 312-690-4240 JOIN OUR Chicago Lights (Tutoring) Chicago Central Regina D. Grant 312-981-3560 SERVICE COMMITTEE Chicago Public Library Chicago Cristina Medina 312-745-0994
NOTE: Please consider joining Child Services Cook, Lake & DuPage Greta Nielsen 773-693-0300 our Service Committee. This Court’s Special Advocate (Child committee meets monthly to Cook County Imogene Harris 312-433-6997 write notes on the birthday cards Advocacy) RTAC sends to our members age Evanston NorthWestern Healthcare Evanston Ronna Jacobson 847-570-2840 85 and above. If you Field Museum Chicago Mary Ann Bloom 312-665-7505 have clear penmanship and like to write, call us at 312-750- Ginkgo Organic Gardens Chicago North 773-404-7114 1522 and ask for the Service Committee’s schedule. Grandma Please Chicago Kathy Slover 773-561-3500
Heartland Alliance Vista Chicago Central Carol McNeill 312-696-4500x4085
Ill. Action for Children (Children's Chicago Central Rebecca Klipfel 312-986-9591 Advocacy) International Visitors Center of Chicago Lexy Sobel 312-254-1800x102 Chicago
Intl. Mus. Of Surgical Science Chicago-North Kristen Vogt 312-642-6502
KIPP Ascend Charter (Tutors & Chicago West Sheri Barrette 773-261-9972 Mentors) 12 12 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Contact Click here Agency Location Person Phone for additional volunteer League of Women Voters Chicago Central Courtney Balok 312-939-5935 opportunities. Lira Arts (Polish) Chicago Katherine McJimsey 773-508-7040
Literacy Volunteers of DuPage DuPage County Tana Tatnall 630-416-6699
Loyola Museum of Art Chicago Near North Ann Meehan 312-915-7604 This list is only a part of the full list MetroMentors Wheaton Gregory O'Donnell 630-784-4810 Midtown Educational Foundation Chicago - Near of volunteering Carolyn Madigan 312-226-4886x232 opportunities (Tutoring) Southwest available to RTAC Museum of Science & Industry Chicago Jackson Park Penny Aulston 773-753-2595 members. For a full Naper Settlement Naperville Josh Charteier 630-420-6010 listing, visit www.rtac.org and National Runaway Safeline Chicago North Volunteer Coord. 773-289-1726 go to “volunteers.” PCC Comm. Wellness Ctr. Oak Park Jinnie Hoggarth 708-383-0113X7912 The “Other Opportunities” Project Care Near West Mary Jo Kuhn 708-656-8000x383 Chgo, Orland Pk & page on the RTAC Recording for the Blind Joanne C. Ruxin 312-236-8715 website may also Naperville list requests for Red Cross Chicago Area 312-729-6100 volunteers for Salvation Army Group Home Chicago Central Frank Massolini 312-455-8059x200 specific events like the Chicago Science Fair (Judges) Chicago B. Dubielak-Wood 773-553-6319 Marathon, election Swedish American Museum Chicago North Tina Harris 773-728-8111x28 workers and docents for various Travelers Aid O'Hare Airport Laura Smith 773-894-2427 museums along University of Chicago Hospitals Chicago Hyde Park Nancy Frazier 773-702-5673 with occasional WilPower (Retirees helping Retir- requests for Northfield Minnie Morton 847-501-2939 ees) information on the WITS (1 on 1 early childhood Chicago Central Lindsey Giacherio 312-606-2032 Chicago Public reading) Schools. Chicago Humboldt Youth Service Project Esther Prins 773-772-6270 Park
13 Retired Teachers Association of Chicago Chicago Teachers Aid Fund 2017 Spring Luncheon and Membership Meeting You are cordially invited to join RTAC friends and Board Members Monday May 22, 2017 11:45 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. for luncheon attendees; 1:00 p.m. for meeting only attendees Hilton Chicago Grand Ballroom 720 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60605 The ballroom is immediately inside the main hotel entrance and up the staircase on the left. An elevator is available. Discounted parking for hotel self-park is available. 2017 Spring Luncheon and Membership Program Please join us as we enjoy lunch, hear the latest information about our pensions, and learn about Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, founder of the National Retired Teachers Association. As a founding member of NRTA (which evolved into AARP), RTAC played an active role in NRTA’s creation. Our keynote speaker, Lily Liu, AARP Archivist Emerita, will share research about Dr. Andrus, a Chicago born and raised educator who in retirement spearheaded the movement to provide retired teachers with access to appropriate housing and medical care. Dr. Andrus also dedicated her life in retirement to curtailing age discrimination practices, and her efforts led to the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967. Door prizes will be called during the latter part of the program, and there are always special surprises. " 2017 SPRING LUNCHEON AND MEMBERSHIP MEETING RESERVATION FORM USE THIS FORM TO REGISTER FOR THE LUNCHEON AND MEMBERSHIP MEETING. PLEASE MAIL YOUR RESERVATION TO RTAC TODAY. MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO RTAC 2017 SPRING LUNCHEON. This form is also available at www.rtac.org. MEMBER INFORMATION Member’s Name:______Street Address:______City:______State:______Zip Code:______Phone number:______E-mail address:______LUNCHEON AND GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING Enclosed is my check number #______dated______in the amount of: $______$______for ______member tickets at $45 each Meal Preferences $______for ______guest tickets at $50 each Member’s Meal q Chicken q Fish q Veg . Paid Guest’s Meal q Chicken q Fish q Veg . Guest’s Name:______Paid Guest’s Meal q Chicken q Fish q Veg . Guest’s Name:______Paid Guest’s Meal q Chicken q Fish q Veg . Guest’s Name:______WE URGE YOU TO MAKE AN EARLY RESERVATION. RETURN THIS FORM AND YOUR CHECK FOR THE LUNCHEON NO LATER THAN WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017, TO: RTAC, 111 NORTH WABASH AVENUE, SUITE 2010, CHICAGO, IL 60602-2949. Tickets will not be mailed. All tickets will be held at the door. No REFUNDS for any reason. We are unable to accommodate walk-ins or meal changes at the hotel. RSVP Deadline is Wednesday, May 10, 2017. No exceptions. Not a member but want the member rate? Complete the form (available at www.rtac.org) and return it with this reservation form and your separate payments for membership and the luncheon. Need additional information? Call 1-312-750-1522. "2017 SPRING MEMBERSHIP MEETING ONLY RESERVATION FORM I, ______, an RTAC member in good standing, expect to attend the RTAC General Membership meeting on Monday, May 22, 2017. I will not be attending the luncheon, and understand that a government-issued photo ID is required to gain access to the general membership meeting when doors open at 1:15 p.m. Return this portion of the form via e-mail to [email protected] or U.S. Mail to RTAC, 111 N. Wabash, #2010, Chicago, IL 60602-2949, no later than Wednesday, May 10,2017. 14 RETIRED TEACHERS NON PROFIT ORG ASSOCIATION OF CHICAGO (RTAC) U.S. POSTAGE 111 North Wabash Avenue, Suite 2010 PAID Chicago, IL 60602-2949 CHICAGO, IL PERMIT NO. 705
RetiRed teacheRs Since 1926 association of chicago Inside: RTAC’s All New VOL. LXXII n NO. 1 News Bulletin SPRING 2017 FocusSpring on Springfield News BulletinRTAC Advocacy in Action
1.
2. RTAC has worked on behalf of Chicago’s of active members has declined. Wednesday, Retired Teachers to protect pensions and March 1, 2017, Linda R. Williams, 1st Vice benefits for more than 90 years, holding President, traveled to Springfield to testify on legislators accountable and protecting the behalf of SB1354 at the Licensed Activities rights of retirees. The work continued this and Pensions Committee (see photo at right). spring as the 100th Illinois General Assembly RTAC encourages all members to support opened and our organization took decisive this important legislation by contacting local 3. action to support our members and RTAC’s legislators and asking them to vote YES on 2017 Legislative Agenda. these bills. March 1, 2017, RTAC First Vice President Linda R. Williams traveled SB 354 AND HB 3071 “We know that when we work together, we to Springfield to testify during the can achieve success,” said RTAC President Senate Licensed Activities and RTAC supports HB3071 sponsored Patricia B. Kubistal, Ph.D. “This past year we Pensions Committee in support of SB 1354. She’s pictured with Bill Sponsor by Representative Robert Martwick have seen our tax levy restored and much of (D-Chicago), and SB1354 sponsored by Sen. Michael Hastings (D- Frankfort). the credit goes to our members who worked 2. Illinois Representative Robert Senator Michael Hastings (D-Frankfort), to make sure that Legislators understood the Martwick (D-Chicago) addressed the which increase our representation from three importance of stable funding. We hope that RTAC Board of Directors during March seats to four on the Chicago Teachers’ Pension we can achieve the same success with our 1, 2017, meeting. 3. RTAC Legislative Fund (CTPF) Board of Trustees. There are current legislative agenda, and we’re counting Chairperson Juanita Jordan attended the inauguration ceremony of the currently 12 Trustees on the CTPF Board; on our membership to help share the message.” 6 are active members and 3 retirees. The 100th Illinois General Assembly on Wednesday, January 11, 2017, as a number of retirees covered by the Fund has See page 5 for more information on RTAC’s spring advocacy efforts. guest of her State Representative been increasing steadily while the number Al Riley (D-Hazel Crest).
VISIT WWW.RTAC.ORG “LIKE US” ON FACEBOOK
RETIRED TEACHERS ASSOCIATION OF CHICAGO (RTAC) MISSION STATEMENT To serve as the primary advocate for retired Chicago Public School teachers and to empower them by engaging in activities and services that will promote their well-being with particular emphasis on the maintenance and enhancement of their pension benefits.
Advocacy in Action RTAC CALENDAR RTAC members engage legislators and help educate them See page 3 for more information on RTAC Workshops. about the needs of CPS retirees. Legislators want to hear from April______May Continued______their constituents, and your voice matters. 1 2017 Armstrong Award 22 Annual Spring Luncheon at Have you met with your legislator? Send nominations due, see page 4 Hilton Chicago, see page 15 a photo to [email protected]. 18 Strategies to Prevent Outliving 30 The ABCs of New LTCs, workshop, 1. RTAC first Vice President Linda R. Your Resources, workshop, see see page 3 Williams (left) in Springfield with page 3 31 Illinois General Assembly Illinois Senate Majority Caucus Whip and 20 Retirees’ Income Choices and Adjourns Chairwoman of the Senate 1. Cash Flow, workshop, see page 3 June______Licensed Activities and Pensions 25 Windows 10 and PC Security, 8 Affordable Long Term Care/ Committee Iris Martinez workshop, see page 3 Life Insurance Hybrid Premium (D-Chicago). 2. From left to right: 30 Nominations due for RTAC Policies without Premium RTAC Legislative Chair Juanita directorships, see page 3 Increases, see page 3 Jordan with RTAC President May______15 Mature Mens’ and Womens’ Patricia B. Kubistal, and Illinois 10 Reservation deadline for Health, workshop, see page 3 Representative Robert Martwick luncheon, see page 15 (D-Chicago) during a visit to 2. RTAC’s office on March 1, 2017. 15