4 Unit News - c · PDF file3 4 Unit News August/September 2014 ter explaining the co-pay change or exclusion of certain drugs. This is the bi-annual review al-lowed under the contract

4 Unit News Central Ohio Retired Firefighters

Chapter Twelve

www.centrohretfirefighters.com 4 [email protected]

August/September 2014

WHAT’S INSIDE Page 2 - Rubadue’s Tribute to Popo-vich, Presidents Re-port Page 3 - Benefits Article, V-Pres. Re-port, Page 6 - Treasurer’s Article, Chaplain’s Corner, Siniff Article Page 8 - June Mtg. Minutes Page 10 - Good and Welfare, 4 Unit Women, July Mtg. Minutes Page 13 - Birthdays Page 14 - Retirement Article Page 15 & 16 - Old Beougher Picnic Cartoon pages Page 19 - Applica- tion Form

ANNUAL 4 UNIT PICNIC SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2014

FIREMAN’S PARK BUCKEYE LAKE

Bill “Kitty” Wells and his picnic crew are planning on

a big picnic with brats, potato salad, baked beans and drinks. Bill is asking

the women to bring their favorite desserts like they have in the past which are

always great and really appreciated! This is always a good time to get together

with the old gang and eat some smoke and tell those great stories of when we

were still at the station. Along with the food there will be door prizes and a

50/50 drawing to make this picnic fun for all. There will be

camping starting on Friday,

September 5, 2014 in the park. See map on page 3.

Come a day early and enjoy sitting around your camper

and visiting with all the retired firefighters.

For more information call Bill at 614-878-6459.

1

MEETINGS

September 6

Annual FF Picnic

October 1

November 5

December 3

FF. George Popovich Honoree at Annual Banquet

Retired FF. George Popovich was

honored at the Annual Retirees Banquet

on June 19th. A large crowd enjoyed

the good food at the Berwick Party

House and got to see some of their

friends again. During the evening he was

presented with a clock and his name was

added on the plaque which honors each

year’s selected retiree . The usual roast-

ing of the honoree was presented by our

emcee, Tom Rubadue who again came

up with some really good zingers for

George. There were others who got up to

OFFICERS President, Gary Church

V Pres, Charlie Burkhart

Secretary, Open Treasurer, Jerry Mason Trustee, Al Allen, Carl Lawhorn, Bill Hanf Sgt-at-Arms, Mike Peery Chaplain, Larry Baker

2

4 Unit News August/September 2014

June /July Presidents Report.

Hello to everyone,

Summer seems to be flying by. We have just

had our annual banquet, this year George Popo-

vich was honored. George was presented with a

clock and a plaque with his name will be dis-

played at the Firefighters VFW. Berwick Party

house hosted 135 of our members and their fami-

lies. As always the food was very good and a

wonderful time was had by all who attended.

George was a good sport as several of his friends

told stories of George`s time on the department

and when they finished George got up and told

some more stories of himself and his friends.It

was a very funny evening. Thanks to Bob Elflein

and the banquet committee for their work on the

dinner. I heard a lot a positive comments regard-

ing the banquet this year.

With the summer moving on by we have

started to make plans for the picnic. This year

the picnic will be September 6, 2014 at Fire-

man`s Park. Bill Wells has been busy making

arrangements for the picnic and informs us that

things are moving along well. Bill does need

many memorable moments that are best left un-

said. George was noted also for his skill at the

buying and roasting goats as part of his Serbian

heritage. Terry Hatzo said that he learned much

more that he needed to know about goats from

George as George coerced him into goat buying

trips. At times he thought that George has an

award from the “Goat Farmers of America” club.

George was many things to many people. He

was a good father, husband, family man, church

member, union member, squad man, firefighter,

cook, story teller, dish washer, and one of the

funniest men you could meet!

He was also the kindest man you could find

in a sometime unkind profession. His own sor-

row took second place to the people he was

sworn to help, and to his friends in need of a

kind work or act. He was the ultimate firefighter

and the best friend a man could have. Congratu-

lations, George Popovich.

add to the fun and enjoyment for the night, even

if it was at George’s expense. George’s family

attended with him.

Pictures courtesy of Gary Church.

George and his family at the Banquet.

TOM RUDADUE’S TRIBUTE TO

GEORGE POPOVICH

George Popovich was born on July 13, 1933.

His birth was uneventful except for the fact he

was born with a “Handlebar Mustache.” He had

a normal childhood and attended Linden McKin-

ley High School where he was a football player

of some renown. It was here he developed a love

of mathematics and was later known for his work

with numbers. Especially by the Columbus Po-

lice Department Bunco Sq. He went to work for

the Pennsylvania RR until 1959 when he joined

the Columbus Fire Department.

At that time a person had to be a male over

5’7” to be a F.F. On the day of his physical,

George was stretched by a chiropractor in the

morning, driven to the FD. Examination doctor.

lying down and was laid on a bench until he was

called for his exam, went in and measured 5’7

1/2” in height. He was in.

George went on to work in the E.M.S. side of

the Dept. after, it was rumored, he broke his

mustache at a cold, wet, frozen fire.

His work with Aaron Hayes, Charlie

Burkhart, Richard Brown and Terry Hatzo had

Continued on page 3.

3


ter explaining the co-pay change or exclusion of

certain drugs. This is the bi-annual review al-

lowed under the contract with United Health

Care.

The Ohio Legislature has been on summer recess

so nothing has occurred that would currently af-

fect our benefits. The upcoming election is the

next thing politically. It’s time to support those

who support us.

Above is a map to Firemen’s Park at

Buckeye Lake. Take I-70 east from Columbus

to the Rt. 13 Exit. Turn right on Rt. 13 and go

south for about 2 miles to Honey Creek Rd.

(At the traffic light) Turn right on Honey Creek

and follow it to the end and at the stop sign

turn right and follow Honey Creek to the Park.

help with door prizes. Anyone who can help out

or knows someone who can donate items, please

collect them and bring them along with you to

the picnic. We also need help to clean up after

the picnic. Please bring a covered dish with your

specialty in it. Thank you!!!

As you have been informed in the past few

newsletters, we are still looking for a secretary. I

also reported to you that Jerry Mason will not

seek reelection as treasurer next year. This posi-

tion is vital to our organization I am hoping that

with advance notice we can fill this vacancy by

the next election. Jerry is working on a manual

to help with the transition of this position and

will help anyone who decides to take on this

role.

We are also moving along with the new ros-

ters and are planning to have them ready by the

picnic. Bob Keefer has also placed an order for

shirts and hats so we will have plenty on hand at

the picnic. Please plan to attend the picnic, come

see your friends and enjoy the fellowship.

Fraternally, Gary Church

4 Unit Benefits Article August/September

The 2015 health care rates except for AARP/

UHC Supplemental plans have been approved

by the Ohio Police & Fire Pension Board. The

increases in medical and prescription premiums

are less than recommended by the pension fund

actuaries. The trustees voted a lower increase

because of the Health Care Stabilization Fund

remaining solvent even with the reduction in

funding. Dental and vision rates will not change

for 2015 & 2016. AARP/UHC Supplemental

rates for Ohio will be set in October. As always

the rates are posted on the 4 Unit Web Site un-

der the Benefits Tab.

The Trustees increased the Poverty Level per-

centage for the health care discount for 2015.

This will allow more members to qualify for the

30% Discount. You may apply during open en-

rollment in September. All rates will be in the

Open Enrollment Booklet.

The latest bi-annual changes to the prescription

plan are out and anyone affected received a let-

Vice President Report - Charlie Burkhart

The 4 Unit annual banquet was held on June

19, 2014. The honoree was George Popovich.

Tom Rubadue did a great job emceeing the ban-

quet and honoring George with many humorous

stories. I wanted to share some of the evening

with those who weren’t in attendance. My fa-

vorite was when Tom asked if anyone had seen

the movie, “Harvey”. He compared the film to

George and his current and invisible wife. (For

those who haven’t seen the movie, it is a 1950

film starring Jimmy Stewart. The story is about

a man whose best friend is a 6 foot, 3 and a

half inch tall invisible rabbit named Harvey that

only Stewart can see. In the movie Stewart and

Harvey spend time talking, sharing philosophies

and drinking in the local bar while Stewart’s

family attempts to have him committed to a san-


4


APHORISM: A short, pointed sentence that ex-

presses a wise or clever observation or a general

truth.

1. The nicest thing about the future is….

That it starts tomorrow.

2, Money will buy a fine dog…

But only kindness will make him wag is tail.

3. If you don’t have a sense of humor…

You probably don’t have any sense at all.

4. Seat belts are not as confining…

As wheelchairs.

5. A good time to keep your mouth shut is….

When you’re in deep water.

6. How come it takes so little time for a child who is

afraid of the dark…

To become a teenager who wants to stay out all

night?

thought he was too small so they put him on the

practice squad against the varsity squad. Well,

he started to put the hurt on the varsity players

and so they decided to put him on the varsity

squad in order to protect them. He then played

Club Football for St. Clair A.C. for years. When

he was 35 years old he made the Cols. Colts

semi-pro team. But Chief Zawyer asked him if

he wanted to play football or work for the Fire

Dept. George chose the Columbus Fire Dept. I

bring up his football athleticism for a reason.

We had a house fire on West Lane Ave. started

by an exchange student who ran out the back

door and then down the alley. George chased

him down with boots and fire gear on, tackling

him and held him for the Police.

Then do I have to remind everyone when

George made the headlines in the newspapers

and TV when the Worthington Police thought

they had uncovered a Serbian gambling syndi-

cate, only then to announce it was just a “Mom

and Pop” operation. I will never forget his wife,

Barbara and can still see her when she said,

“Mom and Pop hell, that was all a POP opera-

tion.”

This August it will be 55 years since I met

George and I can only say that he was the tallest

guy in the class.

itarium.) Tom went on to ask if George was real-

ly married and had anyone actually seen his wife.

Terry Hatzo said he thought the wife was for real

because he’d seen her picture. Tom retorted that

he has a picture of a dog, but that didn’t mean it

was his dog. And the question remains, is

George the only one who has seen the wife?

Following are a few of my stories about

George which I told at the banquet.

I guess about everyone has heard how I first

met George. It was August 1959. We were tak-

ing our physicals to enter the Fire Department.

George came into the waiting room and some of

us were sitting on a bench. He asked if we would

get up and let him lie down as he wasn’t feeling

good. We all got up and he laid down. When the

nurse came out she asked, “What’s the matter

with him?” He told her he wasn’t feeling well

and she said, “You’re next”. The bottom line was

that George didn’t meet the F.D. height require-

ment. He had visited a chiropractor who

stretched his spine 1 ½ inches and was transport-

ed to the City Health Dept. laying down so as to

not compress his spine. So he made the height

requirement with room to spare.

I watched the Popovich children grow up, De-

na, Vic and Lisa and remember the Christmas

table with all of Barbara’s baked goods and

cookies. What a layout at the Popovich house-

hold.

When we graduated from drill school George

was assigned to 13s, 3 Unit and I was assigned to

old 7s, 3 Unit. So we saw each other almost eve-

ry duty day either on runs or training. After a

few years passed, George called me and said

there was a new boy at 13s and he was looking

for a job on his day off and could I use him in the

carpet installation business. I said sure. That new

boy was Aaron Hayes. We ended up with a crew

made up of Aaron, Jim Evans, Ron Brush and

George, after his railroad days. Some of those

days with that crew was a real trip, but some of it

is best left unsaid.

George was an all city football player for Lin-

den McKinley High School. But again, they

5


6


Would you like some great words of re-

assurance? Ever feel like you just didn’t know

what to say to God or how to phrase it? I’ve

certainly been in that position. Once I was

“prayed out”; I could not even open my mouth

because there were no words left for me to ex-

press myself to God. I was at my wit’s end.

Then I recalled the words St. Paul wrote:

Romans 8:26 (NRSV) 26 Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness;

for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but

that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep

for words. Is that wonderful or not? The Holy

Spirit prays for us! When we are at a loss (and

even when we are not) the Spirit is praying right

alongside of us.

Even more astounding (and revealing) is

that the Holy Spirit does not “speak” on our be-

half but simply sighs. That got me thinking.

Perhaps God hears our cries, groans and sighs as

prayers as well. So if you feel a bit frustrated in

your prayers just recall that the Spirit is filling in

the gaps. Have a blessed summer.


An Important Message from your Treasurer

We are quickly approaching the close of an-

other dues year. Dues for 2014 were due on Jan-

uary 1st and will no longer be accepted after

July1st of any dues year. If you have not paid

your 2014 dues by that date, your membership

will be considered delinquent.

Dues are actually due on January 1st, but will

be accepted for processing beginning on October

1st each year. Any dues received prior to October

1st will be held and processed after October 1st.

Since I winter in Florida this allows me to get

the office set up down there before beginning to

process dues applications, so if you send in dues

between July 1 and October 1 and wonder where

your check is, now you will know.

Please use the application that is in this and

subsequent editions of the News or the applica-

tion that is posted on the website when sending

in your dues. These applications have the current

mailing address (in Florida), as well as the cur-

rent fee schedule printed on them. Note that the

dues for 4 Unit was increased from $5 to $10

and the dues for the PFRO was increased from

$20 to $25 per year, effective last year.

Finally, after serving many years as your

Treasurer, the time has come for me to pass the

Treasurer’s duties on to someone else. Retire-

ment, along with wintering in Florida, has taken

a toll on my ability to attend meetings and main-

tain an active role in the 4 Unit organization,

therefore I will not seek re-election to the Treas-

urer’s position when my term is up in 2015.

Hopefully we can recruit someone who can dedi-

cate the appropriate amount of time to take over

this very important role. This organization will

only continue to exist if good people volunteer to

take on the organization’s leadership roles.

Hopefully someone will volunteer to assume the

duties of Treasurer. I have created a procedures

manual and will continue to be involved until the

volunteer is comfortable handling the duties as-

sociated with the Treasurer’s position. If you are

interested or know someone who would poten-

tially be good as your Treasurer, please let me

know. Jerry Mason

CHAPLAIN’S

CORNER Pastor Larry Baker

FOR YOUR INFORMATION by Gary Siniff

Having recently joined the ranks of those

with factory made body parts (Hip Replacement)

I thought I might pass on some lessons learned

by me and others to make the experience easier

for the next patient. It seems like monthly a 4

Unit member or their family member receives a

new implant. Here are some items for FYI:

1. Understand your insurance coverage and pa-

tient rights.

2. Always ask questions if you are unsure about

anything, especially any possible complications

from surgery.

7


8


3. If you will require an inpatient rehab facility

make sure the facility is covered by your insur-

ance and visit them before surgery and make

your choice. Look at the staff qualifications; ask

to see the type of room you would likely be

placed in, also will any possible roommate be a

rehab patient like yourself. Visit at meal time

and when therapy is taking place. If this is un-

foreseen before surgery have a family member

visit for you.

4. Ask what the pills are for when they give you

a cupful at one time either in the hospital or re-

hab facility. Understand what is given to you

routinely and what you must ask for in either

facility.

5. Ask for a status report on your progress.

6. If you are going to have in home therapy or

outpatient therapy investigate their qualifications

and staffing ahead of surgery if possible so that

you receive the proper therapy.

7. Last but most important of all, be prepared to

leave your dignity at home, strangers will do

things to you and for you that only your mother

did many years ago.

Central Ohio Retired Fire Fighters Four Unit, Inc.

Minutes of meeting on June 4, 2014 at 12:00 Noon

Place VFW Post #3426, 1591 Lockbourne Road

Officers Roll Call: G. Church, J. Sherman,

L. Baker, C. Lawhorn, M. Peery

Absent: J. Mason, A. Allen, C. Burkhart

Members present: 68 Guests 0 Total 68

Invocation by: J. McVay,

Pledge of Allegiance led by: M. Peery,

Welcome: G. Church

New Members None

Recording Sec. Report: Waived

Membership Sec / Treas. Report: Paid 477

Life 224

Checking $17,822.06 CDs $10,000.42

Share Acct. $1,042.09

President’s Report: Dr. David Hasl attended

the meeting to discuss the importance of colon

cancer screening.

4 Unit Trade Mark renewal will be due after

July 21 2014. The cost of renewal is $100.00.

4 Unit needs someone to help Jim McVay at

the door. Dale Miller has volunteered to help at

door.

Bob Keefer will order 4 Unit shirts to bring

inventory up for picnic.

Bill Wells has asked for help gathering door

prizes for picnic.

4 Unit Executive Board will have quarterly

meeting at Madison Twp. Station 181 on June 25

2014 at 0900.

Antique Firetruck Muster June 28 2014 at the

State Fire Marshalls Office.

George Popovich will be honored at the 4

Unit Banquet.

Election results Bill Hanf was elected as trus-

tee. He will replace John Sherman.

Bill Hall was in from Fire Museum and gave

a report. They are also looking for volunteers to

help at the museum.

VP Report: None

Committee reports:

4 Unit News & Roster: Beginning work on ros-

ter

Benefits: No report due to Gary Siniff`s sur-

gery.

Host: No Report

Museum: Bill Hall gave report

Banquet: No Report

Picnic: Bill Wells needs help with door prizes.

Old business: Banquet plans are all made.

Still looking for secretary.

New business: Plans being made for picnic.

Good and welfare: Al Allen, Jerry Mason,

Gary Siniff, Rich Jones,

Sick list:

PT to #5 Unit: Gordon Coe

Cooks: Tom Troup

50/50 drawing winners: Steve Bendure to 4

Unit news, amount $33.00. Neil Studebaker to

Fire Museum, amount $33.00.

Meeting adjourned by President: G. Church,

HUMOR: Son: “Mum, when I was on the bus with Dad this morning, he told me to give up my seat to a lady” Mom: “Well, you have don the right thing.”

Son: “But mum, I was sitting on daddy’s lap.

9


10


GOOD AND WELFARE SICK LIST:

Jim Duffy

Mike Snodgrass

Steve Mills

Bill Keller

Henry Baldwin

Bob Barcus

Neil Mills

ASSISTED LIVING:

Robert Slupe

Laurals of Worthington

1030 N. High St.

Worthington, OH 43085

Art Rankin

The Woodlands at Eastland

2469 Kimberly Parkway East

Columbus, OH 43232

John Callahan

Forum at Knightbridge

4590 Knightsbridge Blvd.

Columbus, OH 43214

PT’d to 5 Unit

Gordon Coe, Ret. Lt. Columbus FD 5/8/14

John “Jack” McCarty, Ret Lt. Columbus FD 6/9/14

Jerry O’Rourke, Ret. FF Columbus FD 6/15/14

Ralph Perdew, Ret/ Capt. Jackson Twp FD 6/26/14

Russell Crooks, Ret. FF Columbus FD 4/14/14

Harry E. Throckmorton, Ret. Capt. UAFD 7/1/14

Rich O. Jones, Ret. FF Columbus FD 7/14/14

Widows:

Jonnie Sue Anderson, widow of Brian, Jackson Twp.

Margaret Catherine West, widow of Ray, Columbus

Mary Tompkins, widow, Jackson Twp.

Elnora Taylor, widow of Norm, Columbus

4 UNIT WOMEN (Wives and Widows) We invite all 4 Unit Women to our group

luncheon/meetings held on the 1st Wednes-

day of each month, with the exception of Sep-

tember, when the 4 Unit Picnic takes place on

the 6th.

Time: 11:00 am

Location: MCL Cafeteria, just north of the

intersection of Schrock Rd and Otterbein Ave.

Westerville, OH

COME AND JOIN US FOR FRIENDSHIP, FOOD

Central Ohio Retired Fire Fighters Four Unit, Inc.

Minutes of meeting on July 2, 2014 at 12:00 Noon

Place VFW Post #3426, 1591 Lockbourne Road

Officers present roll call: G. Church, B. Hanf,

A. Allen, C. Lawhorn, C. Burkhart, M. Peery,

C. Goodrich

Absent: J. Mason, L. Baker

Members present: 67 Guests 0 Total 67

Invocation by: J. McVay,

Pledge of Allegiance led by: M. Peery,

Welcome: G. Church

New Members: None

Recording Sec. Report: Waived

Membership Sec / Treas. Report: Paid 481

Life 223 Checking $13,907.35

CDs $10,000.42 Share Acct. $1,042.09

President’s Report: Report of final cost for

July banquet total cost: $3,915.00. Dinner ticket

sale: $1580.00 Net cost: $2335.00 Gift and en-

graving of plaque: $105.00 Total cost to 4 Unit:

$2440.00. Donation from Local 67: $800.00 Fi-

nal cost: $1640.52 We had 135 people attend

the banquet. Thanks to Bob Elflein and the ban-

quet committee for all their hard work. Every-

one thought it was a huge success.

We collected $128.00 for Lt. Stu Tudor, the

Columbus Firefighter who was struck by light-

ning. This money was forwarded to Get Behind

the Badge who will ensure that the Tudor family

receives the money.

The executive board had our quarterly meet-

ing at Madison Township Station 181. Thanks to

Fire Chief Robert Bates, Bn Chief Fasone and

Lt. Roth for all the courtesy shown to our mem-

bers and the wonderful lunch they provided for

us. It was reported to the executive board that

we have missed the fact that after a member

passes that we have published their birthday in

the newsletter. We are working to correct this.

VP Report: C. Burkhart gave a brief report re-

garding the banquet and the roasting of George

Popovich.

Committee reports:

4 Unit News & Roster: Work continues on ros-

ter. Cecil is finishing up with the ads.


11


3600 Olentangy River Road

Building 501, Second Floor

Worthington, OH 43214

Office (614)310-2400

Fax (614)310-2402

[email protected]

Gwen Gloeckner Financial Consultant and Principal

www.gloecknerfinancial.com

Recognized in

Business First

as one of “Columbus’

Top Fee Based

Financial Planners”

Two Years in a Row

Awarded

“Winners Circle”

Top Financial Advisors

by Commonwealth

Financial Network

Your Partner in Sound Financial Strategies Wealth Management Risk Management

Retirement Planning Estate Planning Securities and Advisory Services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network,

Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Advisor.

1 According to Columbus Business First Magazine in 2008 and 2009, based upon Assets Under Management

2 Winner’s Circle is a distinction attained by advisors affiliated with CFN. Those who qualify for this 2012 honor

were part of the top 12% of advisors at Commonwealth in 2011.

12


Benefits: Gary Siniff

The Fund closed at $14.5 Billion on June 24,

2014.

Director John Gallagher reminded everyone

that there will be no board meeting in July.

DISABILITY COMMITTEE

> There were 11 Initial Determination Hearings

(IDH) this month. The recommendations were 8

for approval, 1 denied, and 2 for postponement.

> There was 1 reconsideration hearing. Recom-

mendation was for an increase.

> There were 8 appeal hearings. 5 were ap-

proved.

> There were 2 Death Benefit Fund considera-

tion hearings. Both were postponed.

> Staff informed the committee that the Annual

Earnings Statement mailing was made in June

for 2013.

BENEFITS COMMITTEE

> Mary Beth Foley, General Counsel, addressed

the committee concerning the following five

rules that were subject to the 5-year administra-

tive rule review.

* 742-4-19 (DROP benefits at death) No chang-

es.

* 742-5-09 (Lay off credit) Updated with current

processes and rewritten to make it easier to read

and administer.

* 742-7-03 (Payment date of benefits) Removed

historical language no longer applicable.

* 742-11-01 (Rule on books and records reli-

ance) No changes.

* 742-21-02 (Information to be released from

personal history record upon receipt of court or-

der issued pursuant to ORC 3105.87) Updated

with current processes.

HEALTH CARE COMMITTEE

> Staff presented the “1st Quarter 2014 Health

Care Stabilization Fund.” In spite of the reduc-

tion of the employer contribution to 0.5% effec-

tive January 1st, the balance at the end of the

quarter realized an increase of $10 million and

was ahead of the year-to-date budget. The bal-

ance at the end of March was $1,063,392,406.

> Staff presented the “Review of Final 2015

Health Care Contribution Rates.” Earlier this

year, the Fund’s actuary had recommended in-

creases of 4% for medical and 1.9% for prescrip-

tion. The Board subsequently voted to raise med-

ical 3.5% and prescription 1.9%. Based on this

Staff presented a table of the new premium rates

that will be in effect for 2015. The updated rate

table will be presented at the Annual Change Pe-

riod meetings and included in the ACP materials

mailed in September. Any increases in AARP

Supplemental rates will not be established until

October 2014.

> UHC representative Geoff Rensi reported that

there will be no increase in dental and vision pre-

miums in 2015 and 2016. The Board took the

opportunity to make a motion of approval.

> Geoff Rensi also presented the “July 2014 Pre-

scription Drug List Changes.” Among the list

were 6 up-tier changes, 4 down-tier changes and

24 new exclusions. The list also listed the num-

bers of members that would be affected by each

of the changes. He advised that letters will be

mailed to all members impacted by an increase

in co-pay due to an up-tier and suggested alter-

native lower-tier medications.

> Geoff Rensi provided a list of the six locations

for the October Annual Change Period meetings.

The dates and locations will be published in the

Fund’s newsletter and in the Annual Change Pe-

riod packet to be mailed in September. A defini-

tive date has not yet been made for the Cleveland

meeting.

> Staff presented the “2015 Discount Program

and Poverty Level Guidelines.” The presentation

included a chart showing the OP&F discount in-

come level at 200% of U.S. poverty level guide-

lines. An analysis of the 2014 covered lives

shows a cost to the fund at approximately

$370,000. In 2013 the actual cost was $350,097.

The committee requested staff to attempt to esti-

mate the potential cost to the fund if the OP&F

level was increased to 225%. This program ini-

tially began in 2001 at a level of 150%. It was

increased to 200% in 2008. Staff subsequently


13


Happy

Birthday

OCTOBER 2 Garnet George 3 Dave Hall Richard Thompson 4 Edward Ongaro, Jr. 5 Phyllis Blasko Robert Crosby Mary Jo Leonhardt Arthur Rankin Kevin Stiffler 6 Michael Gibbons 7 Robert Throckmorton, Jr. 8 William Carl Richard Webb 10 Lucy Bennett Myron Ingram Robert Scheibeck Marvin Sells 11 Norman Parrish William Veeck 12 Dennis Lyman 13 Ronald Casto William Lawhead Raymond Scott 14 Monna McCabe Thomas Rubadue Daniel Sutphen Paul Wright 15 Robert Atwood Gary C. Cox Harley Greenwalt 17 William Diamond Patricia Eal Linda Gorby 18 William Bruce, Jr. Frances Carr John Casey Robert Dadum John Ollam 19 Ruth Mason Ronald Slane Richard Yoerger 20 Jo Anne Leddy Daniel Pertee 21 Helen Johnson 22 Forrest Bennett 23 Brian Belcher Clifton Sharpe 24 Della Welsh Jack Rowley

25 Velma Coldren– Hayes 25 Gary Dusenbury George Miller 28 Jerry Foltz 29 Paul Davis Patrick Holstein 30 Larry Hetrick Stephen Mills Karen Russ Raymond Snyder 31 Robert Beard Anthony Paessun Charles Stewart NOVEMBER 1 Shirley Derouaux Patricia Moore Danny Weber 2 Edward Hammel Jack Monaghan Annette Nordman 3 Bruce Ashcraft Stephen Hennosy Charles Purdy James Teal 5 John Jones 6 Darrell Hall Jerry Scott Larry Stansbury 7 Charles Caldwell Terry Trojack 8 Clara Cardiff William Knox Nadine Kuhn 9 Richard Conaway 10 William Mason James Thum Harold Scheiderer John Sedlock 12 John Ansel 13 Jan Bloomer 14 Frank Biancone James Brobst Marguerite Gerstner 15 Terry Mathaes 16 John Rees 17 William Hartman James O’Harra Michael Storts John Taylor 18 Daryl Sollars Robert Thorton 20 Robert Carter, Jr. Dwight Stutler 21 Terry Duckworth Dominic Julian

21 Amalee Soteriades 22 Ann Fadley Russell Kravig Jack Schumacher 23 Patrick Barrett Roby Hayworth 24 Danny Brobst Charles Burkhart

Charles Drumm 27 Carl Clark 27 Tim “Tad” Delong James Sharps 28 James Deconnick Clyde McCann 29 Georgia Green 30 Tom Stewart


presented the requested information and the

board voted to approve the increase to 225%.

The increase will potentially allow 55-60 addi-

tional subscribers to be eligible for the discount

program.

> Staff presented the “ORSC Health Care Report

for 2013” and the Board subsequently approved

it for submission to the ORSC.

> In open discussion, Trustee Bill Deighton re-

quested that UHC examine the possibility of of-

fering a buy-up dental policy for increased bene-

fits. UHC will reply at a later date concerning the

possibility.

Comments:

If you receive an Annual Earnings Statement

form fill it out and return it so you are done with

it. The bi-annual prescription review will impact

members receiving Allergy and Diabetic drugs

the most. You will be advised of alternative

drugs. The trustees voted a lower health care in-

crease than the actuarial recommendation based

on the Health Care Stabilization Fund positive

numbers. They are being cautious not to cause a

large catch up increase in the future. The change

to the Health Discount program will help a few

more members, I truly believe that some mem-

bers are not taking advantage of the benefit, if

you think someone may be eligible, remind them

to look into the requirements.

The next board meeting will be held August

26-27.

Host: No Report

Museum: No Report

Picnic: Bill Wells reported that plans for the

picnic are in full swing.

We need help with door prizes and people to help

clean up after the picnic.

14


.RETIREMENT

Whenever someone asked me: ”Don’t you

miss the job:” I say, “No I don’t miss the Circus,

but I do miss the Clowns!”

ALWAYS A FIREMAN

Once the badge goes on, it never comes off,

whether they can see it, or not. It fuses to the

soul through adversity, fear and adrenaline and

no one who has ever worn it with pride, integrity

and guts, can ever sleep through the “call of the

wild” that wafts through bedroom windows in

the deep of the night.

WHEN FIRMEN RETIRE

When a good “Brother” leaves the “job” and

retires to a better life, many are jealous, some are

pleased and yet others, who may have already

retired wonder. We wonder if he knows what he

is leaving behind, because we already know. We

know, for example, that after a lifetime of cama-

raderie that few experience, it will remain as a

longing for those past times. We know in the fire

fighting life there is a fellowship which lasts

longer than when the uniforms are hung up in the

back of the closet. We know even if he throws

them away, they will be on him with every step

and breath that remain in his life. We also know

how the very bearing of the man speaks of what

he was and in his heart still is.

These are the burdens of the job. You will

still look at people suspiciously, still see what

others do not see or choose to ignore and always

will look at the rest of the fire fighting world

with a respect for what they do; only grown in a

lifetime of knowing. Never think for one moment

you are escaping from that life. You are only es-

caping the “job” and merely being allowed to

leave “active: duty.

So, what I wish for you is that whenever you

ease into retirement, in your heart you never for-

get for one moment that “Blessed are the Fire-

fighters for they shall be called the children of

God,” and you are still a member of the greatest

fraternity the world has ever known.

Larry Baker, Chaplain, 4 Unit.

Banquet: No Report

Old business: Bob Keefer looking for a replace-

ment to handle the t shirts. Anyone interested

please contact someone on the executive board.

New business: Executive Board voted to add

family contact information to 4 Unit applications.

Good and welfare:

Sick list: Don Dolby, Neil Mills

PT to #5 Unit: Russell Crooks, Harry Throck-

mortin, Jack McCarty

Cooks: Tom Troup

50/50 drawing winners: Tom Fullen to 4 Unit

News, Amount $27.00. Michael Miller, $27.00

Meeting adjourned: G. Church,

15


Here is a Beougher page donated by Jim Pritzel and is appropriate for this issue. Thanks Jim.

16


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2014 CENTRAL OHIO RETIRED FIREFIGHTERS - 4-UNIT 2014 F/F or Widow

Name___________________________________________________________________ DOB____________

Address___________________________________City St____Zip_________

Tele (____)-__________________Date Retired___________ Retired From:_________________________

Spouse’s Name _____________DOB_________ Email Address:__________________________________

Date Of Hire: Cell Phone.

4-Unit dues- - C.O. R. F. 10.00 ( )

State dues------P. F. R O. 25.00 ( ) Make Check payable to 4-Unit C.O.R.F. for dues in the

Donation to 4-Unit News ( ) amount of $30.00, plus any other options selected and

Decals 4-Unit 1.00/ea ( ) Mail to: Jerry Mason,

Decals State P.F.R.O. 1.00/ea ( ) 2232 Lynx Run

4 Unit Roster 5.00/ea ( ) North Port, FL 34288 TOTAL PAID $ (By using this application you

do not have to pay any other dues)

*** NOTE: No dues will be accepted after July 1 each year.

PLEASE ENCLOSE A SELF ADDRESSED ENVELOPE with your application or your

MEMBERSHIP CARD WILL NOT BE MAILED BACK TO YOU.

**Our dues are due each year on/or before January 1st. Be sure to fill in all

the information requested on the application, it is all important. Be sure to

include a self addressed envelope. Mail your envelope and application form

to me at the address listed above and I will process it for you.

The first year for DROP members and new retirees is free.**

HUMOR: Siamese twins walk into a bar and park them-

selves on a bar stool. One of them says to the bartender,

“Don’t mind us; we’re joined at the hip. I’m John, he’s

Jim. Two Molson Canadian beers, draft please. The bar-

tender, feeling slightly awkward, tries to make polite con-

versation while pouring the beers. “Been on holiday yet,

lads?” “Off to England next month.” Says John. “We go to

England every year, rent a car and drive for miles. Don’t

we Jim?” “Ah, England!” says the bartender. “Wonderful

country...the history, the beer, the culture…” “Nah, we

don’t like the British crap,” says John. “Hamburgers and

Molson’s beer, that’s us, eh, Jim? And we can’t stand the

English - they’re so arrogant and rude: “So why do you

keep going to England?” asks the bartender. “It’s the only

chance Jim gets to drive.”

More Aphorisms:

7. Business conventions are important…

Because they demonstrate how many people a

company can operate without.

8. Why is it that at class reunions…

You feel younger than everyone else looks?

9. Scratch a cat (or a dog)….

And you will have a permanent job.

20

4 Unit News 2232 Lynx Run North Port, FL 34288

Presorted Standard U.S. Postage

PAID Columbus, OH

Permit No. 5964


Investments

Insurance

Financial Planning

Specializing in the unique

Financial Planning needs of

Firefighters and Police Officers RYAN P. BONAVENTURA, AAMS

Investment Representative

(513) 598-2400

[email protected]

Call or email for a complimentary meeting

over the phone or in person.

Pension Maximization Strategy

“Independent Thinking”

Retirement Planning

Working in Columbus and Cincinnati area

Securities offered through LPL Financial. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Advantage Investment

Management, a registered investment advisor and separate entity from LPL Financial. Souders Financial Group and Cheviot

Savings are separate entities from LPL Financial.

Documents

4 Unit News - c · PDF file3 4 Unit News August/September 2014 ter explaining the co-pay change or exclusion of certain drugs. This is the bi-annual review al-lowed under the contract