NHRSTA Minutes
September 13, 2006
Meeting began with Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence was observed for all our departed members.
Guest speaker for the evening was Mr. Stuart Russell a claims representative with the Social Security Administration based in Concord since 1978. He is familiar with the aspects of the Social Security Law that affects Group II retirees. Those attending were given a fact to supplement our booklet.
There are three areas of concern which he discussed
- WEP (Windfall elimination provision). Special formula for figuring social security for those like us who have the State pension
- Government Pension Offset
- Social Security is computed on highest 35 years. Can go online to Social Security. We all receive a statement every year that tells how much you will receive when you retire. Those figures are not correct for Group II.
Medicare information is available at NH Help Line 1-800-MEDICARE
Mr. Russell opened it up for questions.
Roland Lamy spoke about Les Menzies,. He had hoped to be half the trooper that Menzies was. He described him as loyal, serious and had a good sense of humor. He said that he was a "stand up Lieutenant" who was for the men who worked for him. Roland said he was proud to have worked and him and be his friend. Les was presented a resolution from the NH State Senate and a clock for his dedicated service and a clock from the association.
Les Menzies thanked all who had a part in making this night special and put so much work into it, especially Roland Lamy. He remarked he would never forget the greatest bunch of fellows. He gave an overview of how he started in Law enforcement, first with Concord PD and then State Police. He cannot forget the experience when you relied on each other and were like brothers. Tonight was another example of the companionship we had.. Thanked Lamy and anyone else who took the time and appreciated it very much. Wished his wife could have been there but she is not in the best of health.
The User's Guide to the NH Retirement System book was presented to the membership and special editions were presented to Roland and Les Menzies. A clock was also presented to Kate McGovern for her assistance with the book project.
Raffles were drawn which included 50/50, Home Depot and Mobil Gas cards.
Motion to waive the financial statement was made by Paul O'Leary, seconded by Ernest Loomis. Motion carried.
Paul Doyon talked about American Association of State Troopers and memberships benefits that are available to current and retired troopers. Insurances available are Vision and Term Life. Dues $24.00 a year.
Kevin O'Brien discussed the book project and it status. The initial printing was for 6000 books. The NHRSTA stands to make about 25 cents per book. The groups who participated in the project were provided with a number of copies based on their financial support to the project. Courtesy copies have been presented to key political leaders as well as other key state, county, municipal employees as part of the marketing.
A donation was sent to NH National Guard in support of Sugar Hill Police Chief Jose Pequeno.
Kevin O'Brien sent a letter of support to the sons of Stuart Bates.
A thank you note was read from Kristen Helmsted the Jim Noyes 2006 Scholarship recipient.
Discussion of new law Health Care law under RSA HB 1735. Legislative committee is now involved in the selection and identification of health care needs of state employees active and retired. Our current health care package is good through 2007.
COLA's that are discussed in February and now moved till May.
Meeting adjourned: 8;48 pm. Next meeting will be in May 2007
Minutes submitted by: Prudence Gagne