Taps.....

Jim Kimmel..... 1941-2008

We are saddened to learn of the passing of a strong CORE advocate, Jim Kimmel, on 1/31/08. Jim worked tirelessly on behalf of teachers and will be very much missed by all, including many who knew his work but were never privileged to know him personally. Sincere condolences to his wife, Judy, and family.

Jim Kimmel: An Open Letter to All Ohio Senators

October 24, 2007
(Street address)
Mason, OH 45040

Ohio Senate
Columbus, Ohio

AN OPEN LETTER TO ALL OHIO SENATORS

Dear Senators:

I am writing to request your support for Senate Bill 315. It is imperative that legislation is passed for a dedicated revenue stream to the STRS Healthcare Stabilization Fund. This is supported by virtually all retired and active educators in this state as well as OEA, AFT, ORTA and others. There are very good reasons for supporting 315. I realize that you are being lobbied by the OSBA and others who oppose the bill. They need to realize how shortsighted opposition to the bill really is. As will be indicated below, 315 will actually save school districts money.

HERE ARE REASONS WHY SB 315 SHOULD BE SUPPORTED BY ALL OF YOU.

1. There has been NO increase in the school board contribution to STRS in over 20 years! School districts have seen increased expenses in everything from chalk to textbooks in that time. Why do they think it should be any different for STRS contributions?

2. There are many negative consequences of 315's failure for school districts which will cost them more than a .5 percent increase a year for 5 years. They can pay that now or a lot more later:

• Teachers will continue to teach into their 60's and 70's because they won't be able to afford health insurance in retirement. That will cost the districts more due to an older staff, more sick days, more substitute teachers, and higher group health insurance premiums for the district based on industry standards. This is already happening throughout Ohio.

• Older teachers' salaries are often twice that of a beginning teacher. Put another way, a district can hire at least two new teachers for every veteran who retires.

• Teachers will demand higher salaries because they would look forward to NO health insurance in retirement. This could lead to strikes, impasse, and other unpleasant and disruptive labor difficulties.

• Teacher candidates will seek employment in other states where they can be more confident in their future retirement status because THERE CAN BE NO RETIREMENT WITHOUT ADEQUATE HEALTH INSURANCE. Beginning teachers today are much more aware of retirement details than we retirees were when we began. .

• College students will change majors for other professions . Few go into education now because they will leave college with $100,000 or more of debt and would begin teaching for $35,000 or perhaps less. Not many feel comfortable with that in their future, let alone a retirement 30 years later with no health insurance.

• The violence in our schools causes increased peril for both students and teachers. We have recently seen in Cleveland two teachers shot in the line of duty and an Akron teacher stabbed. Professionals facing this (in both poor and wealthy districts) should be able to look forward to a retirement that includes adequate and affordable health care.

There are those who say that teachers "retire too early. Let them teach until they are 65 and get Medicare!" Most of these are members of the business and corporate community who, unless they are war veterans, have never been shot at in their lives. What many forget is that in the middle 1930's STRS was established because of the special nature of the teaching profession. It was decided that 30 years was sufficient for full retirement because teaching is stressful and because the low pay made it necessary to have a system with a better return than Social Security. It is a good thing, too, because teachers who do other work in summers and pay into Social Security receive only one third of their actual Social Security benefit in retirement if they get a teaching pension. Most would be willing to teach summers if they were paid for it. Police and Fire personnel also can retire after 20 or 30 years because of the strenuous and dangerous nature of their work. How many of you would like to teach junior high students into your '60's, afraid to retire because you couldn't afford health insurance? It is one thing to be an accountant,lawyer, or corporate manager into your 60's and beyond. Quite another to be a teacher, police officer, or firefighter at that age.

The vast majority of active and retired educators in your districts support SB 315. Probably many OSBA and local school board members do not. Which group do you think will have more votes to cast in the ballot box come November ?

Please Support SB 315. It is the RIGHT thing to do!!

Respectfully,

James O. Kimmel, M.Ed
Proud CORE member
STRS Retiree
Ohio Air National Guard 1963-1969

Jim Kimmel: Letter to STRS Board

October 27, 2007

Some of the old issues on the STRS Board are still unresolved. This became apparent to me when I learned that Dr. Dennis Leone's recent motion was tabled. Dr. Leone's voice of reason was once again basically ignored by the majority of the board. He moved to restrict Executive Director Asbury from doing a number of things which should have been decided by the board BEFORE he took action. These restrictions are not some new idea. These restrictions are already listed in the STRS Board Policy Manual. By allowing Mr. Asbury or any future executive director to run roughshod over any STRS policy shows irresponsibility on the part of those who allow it. Here are some examples of such actions which should have been presented to the board for approval BEFORE they were implemented: There are probably many more…

1. Establishing employee compensation and fringe benefits unilaterally.

2. Granting private legal fees for certain STRS employees without formal board approval.

3. Allowing Damon to spend up to $100,000.00 without prior board approval. I never did find out if this is for one year, or if he can spend up to that amount on multiple occasions. Either way that is too much latitude. I believe Damon wanted a million dollars' worth of discretion and would most likely have received it if Leone and Lazares had not spoken up.

4. Then there is the matter of allowing former public service STRS employees to transfer their unused sick leave days to STRS in SPITE of the fact that they received payment for them from their previous employer. They will again be remunerated for those same unused sick leave days (if still unused) from STRS.

5. Regarding HB 151 (divestment), the board caved in. You were promised immunity if accused of abrogating your fiduciary responsibility in the process of divestment. DON'T COUNT ON IT! 151 is on shaky legal and economic ground. As long as you are on the board you ARE responsible. And I would ask why would you accept immunity from your fiduciary responsibility even in this one instance? What other board duties would you shirk if given the chance? If divestment were the right thing to do you would not need immunity.

The Executive Director works for the board which represents the retirees and those who will someday retire. Additionally, by allowing the executive director to make decisions that you either approve after the fact or not at all, you allow yourselves legal liability. You would not be the first board members indicted for something you could have avoided by using common sense and good judgment. So do not allow yourself to be the "fall guy" when someone else causes you to fail in your fiduciary and ethical responsibilities. Allowing such things has placed others in serious legal trouble.

I cannot understand why some board members allow such things as mentioned to happen. Dr. Leone and Mr. Lazares want to make positive changes. Yet many vote against them on the board. I can think of only two reasons: (1) you do not understand (which I doubt) or (2) you are obeying some other "party line" the identity of which I can only guess.

What can possibly turn you the wrong way on so many issues ? Only you can answer that. Just remember that the board policies are clear about the responsibility of the board and that of the executive director. He should present to the board all significant matters and get approval BEFORE acting on them.It seems like he does things in the shadows and then you seem to claim that wonderful excuse called "plausible deniability". In the long run, that never works (remember Watergate?).

A time comes when someone finds a flashlight and suddenly all the nasty critters run for cover. Please work with Leone and Lazares . Their leadership can make things better for retirees by following Ohio Law as it pertains to STRS. As a veteran teacher and school administrator, I know how far a school superintendent would get if he did half the things Damon does without his board approval. He would soon be looking for a new job! Please consider all this with an open mind and heart. We STILL need a new direction for STRS. Maybe a new director as well!!

One other very important point: The opponents of HB 315 argue that STRS is still not well managed and that the board has made bad decisions. Cooperation with Lazares and Leone can show a change in board attitude. It would be a real shame if the board's lack of backbone caused loss of 315 and subsequent financial and medical hardship for many retirees. I assume you care about such things……

Yours truly,

James O. Kimmel
STRS Retiree
Proud CORE Member.

Ryan Holderman and Jim Kimmel re: Nancy Hamant's letter

Jim Kimmel to Ryan Holderman, October 14, 2007
Subject: Re: Bravo, Nancy!

I agree, Ryan. Playing with averages does not negate the fact that many retirees who have been retired a while are much lower. If Judy and I had had to put 2 kids thru college and support them for 20 years we would be different financially than we are not all that good as it is!). Also cops (another high stress job) retire earlier than many jobs. Will the legislators question THEM? I doubt it! As we have sadly once again learned recently teachers get SHOT too! How many legislators or bureaucrats have to worry about that? And by the way in the Armed Forces of the US you can retire after 20 years. Some of these go into teaching for a second career in their 40's. At least they have had combat training... And if you are a bureaucrat of some kind or an STRS staff member you can retire after 30 years as well. The legislators themselves have a pretty nifty retirement system.

Do we want to tell them what they want to hear so they can use it against us by saying that we did not make convincing points or get down to brass tacks? Do they want us not to make the relevant and convincing points so that the bill will more likely fail? It really makes me angry when they say we have such a great retirement system yet some of these same rascals have tried to undermine it so that the bankers and brokers can have their pound of OUR flesh! And by the way, it has been about 20 years since the School Boards have had an increase in their STRS contribution. Everything else schools have purchased in the last 20 years has gone up and they paid it without "whining" so why are they "whining" now? They will of course use this as an argument to refuse raises for their teachers anyway, just as they do every year about the cost of everything from chalk to gasoline. It is time to get real. Of course many Republican legislators do not want postcards about the plight of retirees -- they don't want to pass it anyway! Is there a legislator named Marie Antoinette in the General Assembly? Too many are saying "Let them eat cake" -- when bread (and medicine) is hard to come by.

Jim Kimmel

Ryan Holderman to Nancy Hamant, October 13, 2007
Subject: Bravo, Nancy!

Dear Nancy:

To borrow a phrase from Al Gore, it is "an inconvenient truth" that there are retirees trying to live on less than $30,000 a year. When the legislators are willing to do the same, then they can "get ignited" over "poor educator" rhetoric and NOT until!

Legislators need to "get ignited" over the dilemma faced by all Ohio citizens who, though on fixed incomes, face ever rising costs for utilities, medical expenses, taxes, heating expenses, gasoline and food!

The myth that "the average retiree has a pension of $35,000 and assets and retires younger than other occupations" is only fueled by our silence.

Thank you, Nancy, for bringing this information to folks' attention.

Sincerely, Ryan

Nancy Hamant: Something we need to tell our legislators

Nancy Hamant to Jim Kimmel, October 13, 2007
Subject: Re: ***CORE ALERT*** October 10.2007

Jim, We need to call for support and remind our legislators that over 21,000 educators receive a pension of $19,999 a year or less and an additional 16,500 educators receive a pension in the $20,000 to $29,999 range. That amounts to 40% of all retired educators.

Nancy

Jim Kimmel to Rep. Shannon Jones: Please support HB 315

From Jim Kimmel, September 22, 2007
Subject: HB 315

Dear Representative Jones:
On checking the list of sponsors and cosponsors of the very important HB 315 which would create a dedicated revenue stream for STRS health care I was disappointed to find your name was absent. This bill is extremely important for the future of education in Ohio. Without adequate healthcare for Ohio teachers in retirement the message would be sent that Ohio is not a good place to begin a teaching career. Active teachers at mid career or younger will not receive any health care in retirement without HB 315's passage NOW. Active teachers have overwhelmingly indicated their approval of HB 315. Graduates of Ohio teacher training institutions are voting with their feet by beginning their careers in other states. Others will use their degrees in other fields, lost to the teaching profession forever. If you do not vote for HB 315 how do you intend to finance health care for retired teachers? You have an obligation to answer this question for all your constituents. There can be no decent retirement without adequate health care.

The Medicare Advantage plans hatched by President Bush have been a dismal failure, and more expensive than Medicare. Shannon, many retired teachers are having to decide between their life necessary prescriptions and food. Isn't solving that problem more important than the corporate profits of insurance companies.? I am sure they are lobbying you quite often and very robustly to vote no on this issue. Greed is their motivation. This issue is one in which you will have the rare opportunity to show your true conscience as a representative of all the people. Not only the very wealthy but also those of us who spent our lives at relatively low pay educating Ohio children. We count too.

And just one other important fact: The contribution of school boards to STRS has not been increased for many, many years. Because it would be, under HB 315, distributed over five years it would not be an undue burden on any school district. It might even save money. Presently many educators are continuing to teach simply because they are afraid of the health insurance situation in retirement. . I have first hand knowledge of this from former colleagues in several districts. For every veteran teacher who retires, a school district could hire at least two newly minted ones in their place. Currently just the opposite is the case, another reason many bright young teacher candidates are voting with their feet one way or another.

Please vote for and support HB 315 so that I can vote for you next time..

James O. Kimmel, M.Ed
Mason, Ohio STRS
Retiree since 1994
Ohio Air National Guard 1963-1969
Proud CORE Member

Molly Janczyk, Jim Kimmel re: Divestiture/Obama

Molly Janczyk to Jim Kimmel, August 31, 2007
Subject: For Divestiture: Obama

State Teachers Retirement has approp. 400,000 members. State Employees 700,000+ in membership. Then there is Fire and police and School Employees. This is not acceptable. It is wrapping a flag around public employees' money slowly contributed over lifetime careers and the ORC mandates the system act solely on behalf of membership without political interference. This is only a token play for politicians but it is our survival. None of us want to support terrorists! Any business directly doing business with terrorists should be shut down. This punishes workers for corporations who are trying to support families, not terrorists. It punishes public employees. Let the legislators BE THE FIRST to withdrawn THEIR funds and see how it works!

There are far too many oil and utility companies tied to countries with terrorists because so many countries have pockets of terrorists. What about Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and many other countries all with global companies within their borders supporting everyday citizens supporting families who live fear ridden lives due to those terrorists and dictators? Is displacing them going to help fight terrorists or help grow them?

I have long respected Obama and read about his life. I fear it is true, now, that instead of being a fresh start, he is unschooled in global politics settling for superficial 'patriotic' bandaids which will be of little help in this insidious battle over terrorism.

Why only target public employees? Where are the private wealthy holdings in all this? As usual, unfair and inequitable.

I want no generic form replies meaning nothing.

This makes my decisions for presidential candidate much easier.

Molly Janczyk

From Jim Kimmel, August 31, 2007
Subject: Re: For Divestiture: Obama

Doesn't Obama know that such a bill would be impossible to enforce and that as long as we buy oil in theMiddle East we will be financing terror... Big corporations have a dozen ways around any restrictions the Senate imposes and the only ones hurt will be the pension systems and small investors. Mayne he is a Republican in disguise!! He may be catering to the brokers who paid him contributions!!

Molly Janczyk, Gary Russell & Jim Kimmel re: Medicare supplemental (Med Mutual ) deductible

From Gary Russell, August 28, 2007
Subject: RE: Medicare supplemental (Med Mutual ) deductible

Molly, You are correct that a considerable exposure that the STRS Ohio Health Care program is covering for individuals with Medicare is the lack of any out-of-pocket maximums in the Medicare plan. (Meaning STRS picks up all which is not >covered by Medicare after deduc. at 80% with the patient at 20% UP TO $1500 and then STRS >PAYS AT 100% and we pay nothing. With Soc. Sec. Medicare alone, we would pay 20% to >infinity. This is what supplemental coverage by STRS provides).

Prescription medication is, of course, the other significant exposure. (STRS DOES NOT have the donut hole that Soc. Sec. Medicare demands).Decreasing or eliminating the deductible to provide first dollar coverage would be a very expensive enhancement to the program that would increase the premiums for everyone and shorten the solvency of the your health care plan.

I hope this helps, Gary

From Molly Janczyk, August 26, 2007
Subject: RE: Medicare supplemental (Med Mutual ) deductible

Maybe Gary Russell can help explain. I do know that while Medicare with Soc Sec deduc may be lower, they also

have NO stop gaps and you pay 20% of all bills all year with no out of pocket max. If you have big bills, you would pay huge amounts. With STRS being our supplemental, there is a stop gap of $1500 after $500 deduc. So that is $2000 a yr.: costly if you are healthy; less costly for the ill patient such as my husband and many others.

From Jim Kimmel, August 26, 2007
Subject: Medicare supplemental (Med Mutual ) deductible

I just got an EOB which told me I got nothing in benefits because I had not yet fulfilled my $500.00 deductible. I began to think: Before I was on Medicare there was a $500.00 deductible but then I would more quickly reach it because ALL my medical bills went through. It was my Primary insurer. Now that I am on Medicare and Med Mutual is only supplemental paying only 80% or the 20% Medicare doesn't pay I am STILL required to accumulate $500.00 before the coverage kicks in. Medicare's deductible in less than half that. That seems like a rigged game to me. You get less coverage and yet you still have to meet the same$500.00 deductible! I bet many retirees over 65 with Medicare never reach the supplemental $500.00 deductible because pays out such a smaller amount. And the pharmacy bills do not count for deductible, of course. Since it pays less it should require a smaller deductible. And the supplemental premiums are certainly high enough.

it would be interesting to know what percent of retirees never hit the Med Mutual supplemental in a given year. Or over the past few years? Shouldn't that be helping the Healthcare Stabilization Fund? could the deductible be lowered to match Medicare's which it supposedy "shadows".

Jim Kimmel

Jim Kimmel re: Defined contribution option and divestment

From Nancy Hamant, August 28, 2007
Subject: Fwd: Defined contribution option and divestment

Jim,

In the Defined Contribution plan, teachers select what they invest in from a list of funds that has been approved by STRS staff responsible for support to those teachers who select the Defined Contribution Plan. It is my understanding that HB 151 does not apply to those who are in the Defined Contribution Plan. You need to check whether that is true or not.

Nancy Hamant

Jim...surely they wouldn't do that....would they? John [Curry]

From Jim Kimmel, August 27, 2007 6:43 PM
Subject: Defined contribution option and divestment

If a teacher chooses the self directed defined contribution option instead of the "regular" STRS plan can he self direct his plan to purchase the "nasty list" of "terror friendly" stocks like Coca Cola, Toyota, and Rolls Royce? The self directed option would be run by some stock broker. Would that broker be required to steer clear of any of the forbidden stocks? If not- why not? If the self directed plan is exempt that would sure prove, to me at least, that this whole charade has nothing to do with patriotism but profit for the financiers, brokers, and bankers and the deliberate deconstruction of the public retirement systems so that in the future all public employees will be on their own, in the kind and loving hands of the brokerage/investment/snake oil peddlers coming soon to a WalMart near you.

Jim Kimmel

Jim Kimmel to Rep. Cliff Hite: HB 151 unconstitutional and unfair

From Jim Kimmel, August 27, 2007
Subject: HB 151

Mr. Hite:
Why in the world would you promote and sponsor HB 151 concerning divestment of STRS and other public retirement funds? You as a retired STRS beneficiary should see the danger more than most. Or maybe you do not need the money or health care from STRS. Apparently not.Then send it to me because if this goes through the system will be weakened and we (who don't have other means) will suffer a great deal. STRS money is not the state's to play political football with -- it is money owned by the retirees.

151 will not work -- the terrorists will just laugh, especially because everyone else but the retirement systems will still be able to buy those stocks. UNFAIR! As long as we buy oil from that area of the world terrorists will have plenty of money.

151 is unconstitutional because states cannot conduct their own foreign policy. That is for Washington to do -- NOT COLUMBUS!

It will enrich the brokers and the bankers. UNFAIR AND YOU KNOW IT.

Please do not vote for this bill. It will affect people all over this state -- many of them your fellow teachers, active and retired. As well as police, firefighters, state patrol and many more. Do you drive a Toyota? Better get rid of it fast! Oh, and don't buy a Coke for lunch today, either. That would be WRONG. Oh, I forgot -- STRS can't buy Cokes but you can. This is the most ridiculous attempt to do the wrong thing and call it "right" and "patriotic" that I have ever seen in my 66 years on this earth!!

And we all know how the investment industry will profit from 151. It will cost the retirement systems millions to transfer out the "bad" stocks and buy equivalent "good" stocks to replace them. And it is so blatant it insults my intelligence.

James O. Kimmel
STRS Retiree
Ohio Air National Guard 1963-69
Proud CORE Member

Jim Kimmel re: Deductibles

From Jim Kimmel, August 26, 2007
Subject: Medicare supplemental (Med Mutual ) deductible

I just got an EOB which told me I got nothing in benefits because I had not yet fulfilled my $500.00 deductible. I began to think: Before I was on Medicare there was a $500.00 deductible but then I would more quickly reach it because ALL my medical bills went through. It was my Primary insurer. Now that I am on Medicare and Med Mutual is only supplemental paying only 80% or the 20% Medicare doesn't pay I am STILL required to accumulate $500.00 before the coverage kicks in. Medicare's deductible in less than half that. That seems like a rigged game to me. You get less coverage and yet you still have to meet the same $500.00 deductible! I bet many retirees over 65 with Medicare never reach the supplemental $500.00 deductible because pays out such a smaller amount. And the pharmacy bills do not count for deductible, of course. Since it pays less it should require a smaller deductible. And the supplemental premiums are certainly high enough.

It would be interesting to know what percent of retirees never hit the Med Mutual supplemental in a given year. Or over the past few years? Shouldn't that be helping the Healthcare Stabilization Fund? Could the deductible be lowered to match Medicare's which it supposedly "shadows"?

Jim Kimmel

Jim Kimmel re: Dispatch article 6/7/07

Jim Kimmel to John Curry, August 24, 2007
Subject: Fw: Teachers, it's not over! Let your legislators know...NO Divestiture!

John:

Here is the article I received from Ryan Holderman on August 22 [Click here to view article]. The article was from June 7, NOT August 22, which is probably the reason you could not call it up on your computer. Sorry about the error. However, Mr. Husted needs to be reminded anyway that we don't want such a ridiculous law to be passed. These guys are relentless about getting their way-always at the expense of someone else they deem "unworthy".

Jim Kimmel

Jim Kimmel to Speaker Husted: Give it up!

From Jim Kimmel, August 23, 2007
Subject: Divestment

August 22, 2007

Mr. Husted:
"Give It Up!" That was the title of an article in the Columbus Dispatch today. Good advice! What you are trying to do is a case of "Let's you and him fight": you are using private money (teachers, police, firefighters, etc.) to conduct US foreign policy. And by the way -- states cannot conduct foreign policy for the US -- only the Feds. The state retirement systems' total assets are made up of money taken from paychecks of teachers and firemen and others in public service. Just because we were are paid out of public funds has nothing to do with it. Once we do the work and are paid we are free to do what we want with our money. But it is still our money -- even that which is contributed to the retirement system. And that includes the school boards' contribution to STRS because it is part of our pay as well -- for retirement. Remember 3307.15 of the ORC? The money is for our retirement -- not foreign diplomacy. You know it is illegal Why else would you try to make STRS Board members immune from liability for any losses caused by this scheme?

Also, such divestiture would do no good anyway. You know that, I am sure. You and your friends just want bragging rights to help you move up to a higher office. Besides, if it is such a good idea, why not require everyone -- brokers, bankers, private individuals and corporations -- to divest instead of just public servants? What do you have against us? Ironically, the very stocks STRS must divest I could (if I could afford it) buy those stocks as an individual. If these stocks were divested en masse they would temporarily fall in price and those in the know could make a lot of money as stocks like Toyota, Rolls Royce, Coca Cola, etc., would inevitably return to normal value. And you can be sure the pension funds would not gain from that. I had thought that this all had been placed on the back burner-- if not, shut it off now!

Mr. Husted, I was not born yesterday but you are acting as if you were, when you proceed in this manner. You are very young and need more experience in life before you make life changing decisions for your elders. Divestment -- "Give it up"

Respectfully,

James O. Kimmel STRS Retiree
30 year veteran teacher
Ohio Air National Guard 1963-1969
Life long Ohio Resident

Jim Kimmel and Mark Meuser re: Medicare Advantage

Jim Kimmel to Mark Meuser, August 15, 2007
Subject: Fw: Medicare Advantage

Mark:
Thanks for your prompt reply. While I may not even be around in 10 to 12 years many retirees will be. Please keep an open mind to other health care alternatives if the legislation does not pass. There have been quite a few "errors in judgment" from this and previous boards as we all know. Keeping an open mind, but one focused on the needs of all retirees, should be primary.It is OUR money!

I would also like to suggest that the 88% rule which makes out of retirees "haves and have-nots" should be phased out. Those who currently enjoy the fruits of 5 more years of teaching should be able to keep their extra benefits. But it was a bad decision and has had a bad result for the fund. Doing this one thing could very well bring us back to 30 years AND do a lot for the health care stabilization fund.

When I retired the choice was not there. I might have taught beyond 30 years. The additional years back then did not provide much incentive. And STRS can't afford this largesse. Stopping the 88% situation over, say, five years to give those nearing retirement now a way to plan would also show the legislature STRS was truly interested in cutting excesses done during the Deyer era. Of course most of those board members who voted for the 88% rule were eligible to benefit from it. I understand that you were not on the board at that time. But that IS the long and short of it.

Thanks for reading my concerns

Jim Kimmel

From Mark Meuser, August 14, 2007
Subject: RE: Medicare Advantage

Dear Mr. Kimmel,

Thank you for your e-mail. I appreciate hearing from you.

I have noticed a number of articles describing both benefits and concerns regarding the issue of Medicare Advantage. If STRS does offer a Medicare Advantage plan, it would be totally voluntary. I would certainly not be in favor of it if it were mandatory. But as it is has been proposed, it could result in a reduction of premiums for some retirees. As such, it is worth looking into. It is on the agenda for this month's meeting.

STRS does not want to get out of the health care business. It may be forced to do so, though, if the legislation to assess teachers and school districts an additional 2.5% is not passed. If that legislation is not passed, the Health Care Stabilization fund will run out of money in about 10 or 12 years. Then we will be out of the health care business.

Sincerely,
Mark Meuser

Jim Kimmel to Mark Meuser: Vote No on Medicare Advantage

From Jim Kimmel, August 14, 2007
Subject: Medicare Advantage

Mr Meuser:

Please do not vote for Medicare Advantage even on an "experimental" basis. It is inferior to Medicare and will not provide the coverage Medicare does. Once out of Medicare it may not be possible to return -- or if so it will be at a higher price. Also, if, as it appears, STRS is "going out of the healthcare business" why should the legislature approve an increase in teacher/board contributions? Think about it carefully.

James O. Kimmel
STRS Retiree

CORE's Jim Kimmel.... "we seem as underlings and a lower caste"

From Jim Kimmel, June 18, 2007
Subject: Re: CORE's Duane Tron re. Ohio SB 161 "Vote them out"

Why did STRS even bother to agree to be "voluntary" about divestment if the Senate will take it up all over again ? I did not know people can be dolts and idiots at the same time but these legislators are! I only hope that Strickland would veto it or it would go to court as unconstitutional. It just shows how determined the bankers and brokers are to get our retirement money.

1.They just can't stand that a teacher (or police, fire, etc) group can have that much money. We are seen as underlings and lower caste.

2. Corporate America hates public retirement funds because they hold large numbers of shares of a given company and therefore can exert real pressure at stockholders' meetings where the number of shares equals the number of proxy votes. So they want to destroy the pension funds and have nice individual plans, all isolated and with no way to have a cohesive influence.

Jim Kimmel

From CORE's John Bos......we are "continually being taken to the woodshed"

Sent: Monday, June 18, 2007
Subject: Re: CORE's Jim Kimmel.... "we seem as underlings and a lower caste"

There is not a group that is more patriotic than the retired educator. I never knew a teacher that advocated violence or supporting an organization that did not treat people with the Golden Rule. Unfortunately, many others see this as a position of weakness. Their "Golden Rule" has become, "He who has the gold, makes the rules". As a result, we may again loose more of our retirement "promises". Unfortunately, most of us are not retired administrators at Orange Local with a second dip at the retirement counter. We are just plain honest folks from rural Ohio that are continually being taken to the woodshed. We need help. Perhaps Marc Dann can convince them that their actions are not legal.

From a "burned out retiree" who has been robbed by medical insurance premiums, social security reductions, lower retirement formulae, and a reduction in the retirement payments by active employees.

WE NEED HELP!

A Frustrated Ohio Retiree

Jim Kimmel: An open letter to Speaker Jon Husted re: HB 151

From Jim Kimmel, June 9, 2007
Subject: HB 151

An Open Letter to Mr. Husted

The Ohio General Assembly is responsible for the preservation and protection of the State Retirement Systems. Please explain to me how HB 151 would help the retirees. That should be the only consideration. The whole idea of defined contribution ( which is the real goal here) will hurt retirees. But it WILL put dollars in the pockets of many who never taught, chased a criminal down the dark streets of mean neighborhoods, or who were shot in the act of police work, teaching, or died while saving someone's home from a fire.

I find it interesting that nowhere have the advocates of HB 151 ever said that it would improve the retirement systems. Did you ever, as this went forward, even consider how it would affect retirees ? And we both know it will not do a thing to stop terrorism.

Now it will be "voluntary". Again- how will this improve the retirement systems ?

James O. Kimmel
STRS Retiree

Jim Kimmel's letter of opposition to HB 151

June 2, 2007

Dear Representative:

I am writing to ask you to vote AGAINST HB 151. There are several reasons this bill is a terrible idea:

1 .It will not stop any terrorists because of the complexity of world economics. Terrorists won't even feel it as long as the United States continues to need oil from the Middle East.

2. It is misplaced patriotism: It will not provide additional body armor, additional men or a way to end the conflict; yet it will seriously damage the retirement systems on which retired firefighters, teachers, police, state patrol and other public employees depend. These are people who risked their lives and served the state all their working lives. And yes, even teachers have risked their lives and suffered injuries and death in the line of duty.

3. It grossly discriminates against the public retirement systems because the bill would prohibit these bad” investments only for STRS and the other public pension plans. Any other entity or individual could still invest in these companies…including mutual funds selling to teachers. How does THAT make any sense? I am sure it does to the brokers and the bankers! They would profit from the divestiture of stocks which would be required as well as selling the same stock back to new teachers if the bill passes requiring Boards of Education in Ohio to set up special investment funds for new educators. WHAT A DEAL! Bonanza for the brokers gained on the necks of elderly and ailing retirees whose salaries were never very great. Talk about scapegoating the weak!

4. The bill would affect many Ohio companies and the Ohio economy in a negative way, including loss of jobs for many Ohio families. The terrorists will be ecstatic as they watch us economically shoot ourselves in the foot.

5. STRS retirees as well as other public pensioners have lost the 13th paycheck, which was never a full paycheck but still helpful. They struggle with health care concerns and, like many seniors, prescription costs. If 151 passes they will suffer even more.

6. You are singling out senior citizens who have paid their dues IN FULL and ask nothing more than fair treatment by THEIR representatives and senators at the state level. HB 151 is not it! Is this how you would treat your grandparents?

7. If HB 151 is such a great patriotic gesture, why not prohibit ALL investment in these companies by ALL mutual funds, corporations, and individuals operating in the state? It wouldn't accomplish anything any more than applying it only to the retirement systems, but at least it would be evenhanded and consistent. But you and I both know that “ain’t gonna happen.”

8. There could be a second bonanza for all investors (except, of course, public retirees) if the retirement systems did divest these stocks because there would be a drop in price and those allowed could buy cheap and wait for these ”bad” stocks to go back up -- which they most certainly would.

9. Public retirement systems have one basic mandate: To protect, administer and foster the growth of the retirement funds -- not conduct economic diplomacy for the United States of America.

10. You should also remember that the General Assembly is responsible for the public retirement systems. HB 151 would create just the opposite of that mandate. It would probably end up in court due to this conflict.

Please vote NO on HB 151!

James O. Kimmel, M .Ed
STRS Retiree, Age 66
Mason, Ohio

Cathy Burner's e-mails, July 14 - 23, 2006

From Sondra Stratton
Sent: Friday, July 14, 2006 3:36 PM
Subject: Fwd: The resignation

Ms. Ramser, Ms. Fisher, and Governor Taft,

I highly concur with Mrs. Cuthburt! As one who has been involved since the beginning of learning of the STRS abuses, I find the continued arrogance and incompetence appalling!! Governor Taft, you listened to those in your party who had also done wrong by the retired teachers in OH by line item vetoing the investigation of STRS by the Inspector General. Ms. Montgomery and Mr. Petro had much to loose by said investigation. MS. Ramser, you are OEA and still do not understand what has happened at STRS and I seriously doubt you really care. You ( and Dr. Brown)
have been underhanded at the things you have tried to pull to keep discussions from occurring. You should be the next to step down!

Ms. Ramser, I believe if Ms. FIsher wanted the reasons, etc. know about her resignation, it should have come from her mouth. I believe you have really hurt yourself and if I were on the board, you and I would have serious trouble from here on out! I doubt that will be the case with Dr. Leone as he is there to see that STRS gets fixed, not to be petty with other board members. Perhaps, it is you who needs to be an "adult" for your behavior has not been very adult-like. Ms. Fisher's resignation further shows that she was NOT aware of all the problems at STRS and the resolve of retirees to get them solved!!!!!!!! It would seem the same is true with you, Ms. Ramser.

Thank goodness Ms Fisher has given up and resigned! She has not been a credit to STRS in the first place and I sincerely hope that you, Gov. Taft, will choose someone who has the fortitude to follow the law and represent retirees ( and actives) in the manner in which they wish to be represented!

Please consider Tom Hall for this position. We will never get this system back on track without people who understand where we retirees are and how we live must live. We MUST have some who is compassionate and seriously concerned about the welfare of STRS and retirees present and future!!!

Retirees are going nowhere and will stick this out until every board member who is there for other reasons than following 3307.15 are gone and this system is fixed. If we have to SHOUT to make those who pretend to be deaf, hear,
then so be it!

Sondra Stratton
CORE member and organizer
past Pres. of Brown County Retired Teachers Association

**********************************************************
From: Evelyn Cuthbert Subject: The resignationDate: Fri, 14 Jul 2006 12:03:36 -0400Dear Ms Ramser, Ms Fisher and Governor TaftI am the wife of a retiree and have been involved in educating myself for the past several years in the operations at STRS since the loss of our 13th check, the outrageous cost of our healthcare, and after reading Dennis Leone's list of facts and outrageous expenditures at STRS.I was appalled at the reason, Ms Fisher, you gave for your resignation. I have only known Dr. Leone for the past several years but I have found him to act only in a professional manor and in many types of circumstances. He is not the type to display actions that would jeopardize his credibility. He has done so much good and is well known. It's only because of Dennis and John Lazares that changes were made at all at STRS. I will, however, say he is probably passionate about doing things the right way to prevent any other catastrophies from inept decisions. He is looking to the future with 20-20 hind-sight.I find that some women in positions of power don't often embrace someone who has such passionate feelings toward their responsibilities and in this case fiduciary responsiblities especially women who have never been in a position of power before. An example may be cautioning the approval of contracts without having the contract in hand or reviewing the contract and taking at face value the Director's mere explanation of it's contents-yet approving the contract. This to me defies logic and common sense. Some women look at such passion and expertise with cool reserve and do the opposite of what is necessary since those suggestons may not have been initiated by the women themselves or they may feel that a man is telling them what to do and they don't appreciate the expertise.In my opinion if you felt "driven to resign", you must not have possessed the confidence in yourself necessary for the round table and your ability to debate the issues. This makes you sound unable to cope. There is alot of pressure there and there should be--tens of thousands of people and billions of dollars depend on your decisions and many of us who know about the outrageous expenditures do not trust most of you--you have not proven yourselves to us. It's not all baseball games, broadway shows and trips to Alaska anymore. What you do may cause even more lawsuits from those who are hired to serve us and not vise versa.I guess it also depends on what frame of reference you serve as a board member. From what I have seen and heard, Dennis' main goal is to prevent further injury to the system and prevent any further inept decisions that will cost us more in millions like the handling of the lawsuit from the STRS employees.When it comes to respect, in my opinion that there are 2 kinds. The respect one has for human life and people in general and the respect for a colleague and their professional expertise. Respect in the latter is something that is earned through actions.
***************************************
Paul Boyer Writes Re: CORE meeting July 20 at STRS:
To all who may be concerned about adopting a constitution and by-laws to make CORE a more formal organization, please remember that what Ryan will be handing out at the meeting is only a suggestion. It is up to the membership to make the constitution what you want it to be by amendments, changes that can be done right in the meeting by a vote of those present.

I urge ALL who can to attend this meeting. I will do all that I can to be there even though I should not take the time from getting ready to move. IT IS IMPORTANT. When you come, do not be bashful; speak out your concerns.

I would love to see such a crowd at the meeting that we would have to move into the main Sublett Room. Molly, I am glad that you are going to be there. Tom, we will miss you and your wisdom; I guess your computer is back on line now.

Hopefully,

Paul

*****************************************
Retirement plan is in need of a tweak
Saturday, July 15, 2006

Dispatch Public Affairs Reporter James Nash’s recent article on Ohio’s public pension systems left out some important facts about the state of educator retiree health care and the proposal to stabilize its funding for the future. Currently the State Teachers Retirement System of Ohio projects funding to continue the healthcare program through 2021. Even so, the trust fund that funds this benefit will begin depletion in 2009, signaling a virtual end to health care for STRS retirees.
So the proposal to put in place a dedicated revenue stream to fund educator retiree health care for the long term represents a responsible approach to this complex issue. STRS Ohio provides health care to over 111,000 retired teachers, university professors and their spouses and dependents. Some 6,500 disabled educators receive their health care from STRS Ohio. Without STRS Ohio health care, many of these retirees and future retirees would become a new class of uninsured Ohioans.
Since 2004, the Health Care Advocates Coalition has worked closely with STRS on a member education and engagement campaign designed to inform members about the costs of health care in retirement and to encourage them to save for these costs. The coalition includes membership from Ohio’s public higher-education institutions, school administrators, retired teachers, higher-education faculty and Ohio’s largest teachers unions. Beginning in 2005, the coalition and STRS mailed brochures to 190,000 active educators, conducted more than 20 regional meetings and communicated with more than 10,000 members. In these conversations, we learned that active educators are supportive of the proposal to increase member and employer payroll contributions by 0.5 percent each year for five years to be dedicated to health care. In recent months, we have reached out to Ohio’s school districts. We want to make sure that they understand the full range of costs associated with the health-care program and the impact if it is ended.
Working with members of our coalition, we have learned that Ohio’s public higher-education institutions are concerned about the STRS Ohio health-care program. This important service is a valuable tool for recruiting and retaining higher-education faculty. Research conducted collaboratively by Ohio State University and the Ohio Education Association concluded that concerns about health care in retirement are a primary factor in the decision to delay retirement by Ohio’s active teachers. Without health care in retirement, it is likely that all educators will teach much longer, driving up wage and health-care costs for all of Ohio’s public-education institutions. This proposal is the most costeffective way to continue a healthcare benefit for retirees who have dedicated their working lives to the well-being of the children in Ohio’s communities.
BILL LEIBENSPERGER
Co-chairman Health Care Advocates Coalition for STRS Columbus
_______
Date: Sun, 16 Jul 2006
Dave Parshall said the same thing; no need to get formal; just contacts for organizations to know how and who to reach; I think we must be mindful of however most feelFrom: Al Rhonemus>Subject: RE: Date: Sun, 16 Jul 2006 18:45:33 -0400>>I respect both Paul and Ryan; however, I feel that we are just about to do>something that we have advocated against. It may go into another ORTA>controlled few, or an OEA with controlled few. Therefore, I do not think>that this is the time to organize so to speak. This is Al's personal>thinking. I am unable to be at the meeting because of local obligations.>God Bless and I will abide by whatever decision is made. Pray that the>Governor will listen to us and appoint Tom Hall.

Al Rhonemus>
**********************************
Molly Writes:

I do agree with Nancy's analysis with rotating schedules for supporting and monitoring STRS.VERY IMPORTANT! I feel the officers are name only and meant as Dave P. said, a clear contact for CORE as some have not known where or with whom to speak. Beyond that, I fear giving control or power or anything close to anyone other than majority membership.

*********************************
John Curry Writes:

Due to my work schedule, I will also be unable to make the meeting. I do have an opinion - for what it's worth: I would like to wait for a vote for reorganization until the summer is over. We have a difficult time getting a large group together during the summer (and also during the bad weather in winter). Fall seems (to me) to be the best time for a large gathering on a vote concerning an important decision. I don't wish to be counter productive and do understand that the "show must go on."
**********************************
From: Shirley Zerkel
Sent: Monday, July 17, 2006 6:27 AM
Subject: Opinion concerning re-organization

I will be unable to attend the CORE meeting on the 20th due to family commitments. This is my opinion. Summer is a busy time for families and vacations and winter weather prevents travel. Since so many essential CORE people will be unable to attend the July 20th meeting, would it be possible to postpone the vote on such an important topic as re-organization till August or September. September has always been a time for new beginnings for teachers.
Maybe that time of year will bring forth the best ideas on what direction CORE should take.
Shirlee
************************************
School consulting deal skirts state rules on pensionBy RYAN BAGWELL, Staff Writer
July, 2006
http://www.hometownannapolis.com/cgi-bin/read/2006/07_16-76/TOP
The county Board of Education is considering a contract with a Crofton firm that would allow school officials to skirt state pension rules and give lucrative paychecks to retired administrators.
The two-year, $1.4 million deal would allow Nancy M. Mann and two other former administrators to start consulting jobs through a little-known human resources outsourcing company that has handled school employees for years.Those familiar with the arrangement with Human Resources Inc. said it is a tool to hire retired administrators and give them big pay while they continue to draw full state pensions."I don't like it," said school board member Konrad M. Wayson. "If I can't do it for a teacher, I shouldn't be able to do it for an administrator."Superintendent Kevin M. Maxwell, who started two weeks ago and just learned of the contract, still wanted the deal approved. The system's previous five-year agreement with HR Inc. ended June 30.But on Wednesday, school board members extended the current deal for a month and froze hiring on the contract while they review the proposal.Along with Mrs. Mann, Dr. Maxwell said he planned to hire Kenneth Nichols, the school system's former acting deputy superintendent, and Leslie Mobray, the district's former acting director of student safety and discipline, through the HR Inc. contract. Both retired after years with Anne Arundel schools. Now that plan has been put on hold while the school board looks into the deal, Dr. Maxwell said.Specific pay for the three consultants wasn't discussed, but Dr. Maxwell said it would be comparable to what they earned when they were paid directly through the school district.Mrs. Mann made about $700 each day she worked as interim superintendent. She stepped down on June 30.The state's Retirement and Pension System limits the amount a retired school employee can make with the district they retired from. Generally, retirees can make up to the difference of their yearly pension and their final salary.But if they are hired through a subcontractor like HR Inc., retired employees can make unlimited amounts, according to Anne Budowski, a spokesman for the state's retirement system.That doesn't seem right to the Maryland Public Research Interest Group, a state government watchdog group."If they are double dipping, I think that warrants concern and should definitely be looked at," said Johanna Neumann, a MaryPIRG policy advocate.Tim Schaffer, HR Inc.'s president, could not be reached for comment.Ms. Budowski did not know if other Maryland school districts use subcontractors to get around state pension regulations."This is the first we're hearing about it," she said. "We would have to do an investigation and make inquiries."The school district's relationship with Human Resources Inc. started more than 10 years ago. They've often used the contract to hire employees in demand, like speech therapists and construction project managers when funding windfalls have come from the county, said Deborah S. Groat, the school system's director of purchasing.Only six employees are presently employed through the contract, the school system said. They make between $20,000 and $80,000 a year. Ms. Budowski said four of the six are drawing a state pension.It was unclear what their jobs are. Florie Bozzella, director of human resources for Anne Arundel schools, did not return calls for comment on Friday.In the last school year, Human Resources Inc. made $65,000 on the deal to handle six employees.Under the proposed contract, HR Inc. will charge 26.5 percent of the employee's salary for jobs like clerical and administrative positions. For skilled labor, they'll charge 30.5 percent.It's more than what was proposed by Metropolitan Technology Solutions, a Virigina-based firm that also bid on the contract. They offered 10 percent fees for administrative positions, and 20 percent fees for skilled employees.But its proposal was rejected early on because it was "technically incomplete.""If it was not technically complete, then they wouldn't have asked us in for an interview," said Russell Henderson, of Metropolitan Technology Solutions.Ms. Groat said the committee that reviewed the proposals scored Metropolitan low because they weren't local, and new employees probably would have had to travel to Virginia to fill out paperwork.HR Inc. also had more experience than Metropolitan, she said.
_______
July 17, 2006
John Curry Wrote:

Please click on the link below and then click on July 17, 2006 for the Wastebusters feature concerning STRS. I tried the email feature and discovered that it isn't available (yet). I will call the station tomorrow - meanwhile, you still can still view the presentation.

P.S. A special "thank you" goes out to CORE member Sondra Stratton who filed the "official" complaint with the Ohio Ethics Commission which started this criminal ball rolling!

John - today, an especially PROUD CORE member
The message is ready to be sent with the following file or link attachments:Shortcut to: http://www.whiotv.com/news/9225017/detail.html
_______
Sent: Thursday, July 13, 2006 5:11 PM
Subject: Drawing fire!

Dear One & All:

I've been sitting here in front of my computer screen dumbfounded by the comments attributed to STRS Board President Constance Ramser and member Judith Fisher! They've stooped to the now all-to-familiar tactic of attacking the messenger when they cannot refute the message. It reminds me of those who attack the patriotism of anyone who dares raise their voice in opposition to our present national leadership or questions the motives of anyone who questions the actions of those in leadership positions.

The STRS board is not a social organization. Board members were not elected so that they could attend ball games, enjoy a few rounds of golf, take in the latest theater production and bond over a lovely meal! Board meetings are supposed to be the forum where the oversight of our pension fund is discussed, ideas are exchanged, and decisions in keeping with the charge of ORC 3307.15 are voted upon and executed. Invoking "civility" as an reason for stifling frank discussion is a pathetic attempt to intimidate and demean anyone with the valiancy to speak against the majority!

The open discussions that have taken place since John Lazares and Dennis Leone were elected to the STRS Board have increased the transparency of the Board's actions, stimulated careful examination of the way business is conducted, and guaranteed that the rubber stamping of items brought before the Board will be met with resistance by those who have pledged to protect our retirement funds.

The vitriol hurled at Dr. Leone is hurled at all who dare challenge those who are entrenched in a business-as-usual mindset. Anyone who advocates reform is targeted as a "malcontent" or "trouble-maker". Changes in the rules for participating in the public speaking sessions at the STRS Board meetings, attempts to quash responses by Board members to those who address the board and attempts to limit the discussion of motions before the Board have all failed to silence those who engage in discussion, dissent, and criticism.

Ohio's teachers, both active and retired, will be heard. We will continue to elect representatives to the STRS Board who will speak loudly, insistently, and forcefully in their effort to move forward and bring reform to our retirement system. Dennis Leone and John Lazares have dared to do just that. I challenge other board members to step forward and support their efforts and defend their right to speak their mind.

For too many years STRS was governed by individuals with an imperial attitude and ingrained sense of entitlement.

Never, never, never again!

Sincerely,
Ryan Holderman

******************************

Dennis Writes Molly G.
From: Dennis Leone>To: Molly G>Sent: Thursday, July 13, 2006 1:57 PM>Subject: Re: Fisher & Ramser>>>Thank you Molly, for your words of encouragement. John L says it best when >he says that we are not on this board to develop buddy friendships with the >other board members. In fact -- if the truth be known -- John and I don't >even socialize together. We are just 2 people with similar concerns.>>Thank you again for your kind comments.>>Dennis Leone> ----- Original Message -----> From: Molly G> To: Dennis Leone> Cc: John Lazares> Sent: Thursday, July 13, 2006 11:11 AM> Subject: Fisher & Ramser>>> Gentlemen:>>> I just read that insulting rhetoric spewed by Connie Ramser and Judy >Fisher ... esp Ramser. Please do not surrender to their mean-spirited >tactics. The work you are doing is historical in nature and must continue. >This has to be discouraging, but you're made of stronger stuff and you have >so many teachers backing you. Hang in there guys.>>> Sincerely yours,>>> Molly Ganz**********************************************************

Molly Writes Jim Wagner Re: CORE

I understand Jim. I also feel some of the strength has been in being able> to remind us all that no one is the leader and that membership majority is> the voice.> I worry that it can evolve into a 'board and officers' doing what other> boards and officers of other organizations do: say well this is what we > are> elected to do-decide the course.>> Dave Parshall understands that is not the purpose and that it is a> figurehead position to be the contact and spokesperson for majority> decisions.> I fear becoming what we have stood against.> THAT is WHY it is necessary to attend and be part of the decisions.> It is very important to have safeguards against the above dangers.>> It will be very divisive if such a situation develops-not attractive to> gaining membership as that is what we have fought against.>> Dave Parshall didn't really see the need for formalizing it but some do > and> there are pts for that.> I just think we must be very cautious and very able to change items if> misuse arises.>> We have to think longterm for future persons serving as our goals and> thoughts may erode with egos and personalities.>> Sticky I think. This has absolutely nothing to do with Paul 's and Ryan's> stellar efforts and they are honorable and ethical and doing what has> arisen. They are to be commended and perhaps I am being way to overly> cautious being so burnt by the other organizations and what their> interpretations of duties became over time. Paul and Ryan are doing > nothing> that would contribute to this happening. Titles are just tricky things> giving far more imagined power than meant. Careful selection of who fills> that role is essential but some where down the line, I know, someone will> someday get carried away with it. There is no doubt for me.> Human nature.>>>>From: Jim Wagner>>To: "Mollly Janczyk" >>Subject: formalizing core>>Date: Sat, 15 Jul 2006 20:32:40 -0400>>>>Ask your retired teachers - beginning with your e-mail list.>>>>Personally, I think it would be disasterous to CORE.>>>>When you have a problem you want to get rid of you put a label on it.>>>>And coping requires labels - so what are you going to do.>>>>I think the power of CORE has been the disorganization since it cannot be>>penetrated and controlled.>>>>>>Jim Wagner>>*************************************
Duane Tron Writes:
Subject: STRS Date: Sat, 15 Jul 2006 15:12:20 -0400>>Molly,>>Watch the news Monday! FYI>Nothing else I can say now!>>My best advice?! We don't need people on OUR retirement board who are >impressed with themselves, and using a board seat as a stepping stone, to >enhance their Vitae, or stroke their egos.>>We need people who are going to represent ALL of us. We need people who >are going to do what is right and in the best interest of retirees.>>I'm tired of the so-called experts, the high roller politicians, the people >with impressive credentials, and on and on.>>I want someone to represent us who has OUR best interests, and welfare at >heart, and I want someone who is honest and will do the right thing for >retirees, and for the right reasons.>>Judith Fisher had fancy credentials, connections, lots of schooling, and on >and on and she's a total bust! We need someone from among us who knows >what's going on and what has taken place at STRS.>>I'm sorry but over the years I have come to NOT trust people from academia >and some sectors of Corporate America. Why? They don't live and operate >in the "real" world.>>The news Monday will be tied to the word, "scandal." As I have pointed out >to you many times I have been quite busy working behind the scenes. I am >very sorry that I can't perform miracles and it angers me that the system >works so slowly! On the other hand the system still does work.>>We have been battling with people I describe as "bad" people. They have >done a lot of bad things and they will be removed and dislodged from >positions of power and prestige over time. Note, I said over time?>>The good news is the honesty, character and tenacity that people like >yourself have brought to this battle. The positive news is that in the >long run "good" will triumph as a result of people like you and many others >who have fought and cared so passionately about this issue!>>DuaneTron>*********************************************
Mary - I have a hunch that it will be "Wastebusters" by Jim Otte. He is doing a series re STRS. For all who read this - Mary is talking about Channel 7 (WHIO-TV) Dayton, OH. Those watching on cable will have to cross reference their cable channels to see if they do receive this Dayton channel as if it is "Wastebusters," it is ONLY broadcast on Channel 7 Dayton and no other (CBS) affiliated stations - it is a LOCAL show only.
----- Original Message -----
From: Mary Jordan
Sent: Saturday, July 15, 2006 5:30 PM
Subject: re: The News

Hi John,
On Friday's Channel 7 news from Dayton at 5:00 they said to watch Monday's 5:00 news for news about STRS. I am anxious to hear have they have ato say.
Mary Jordan

****************************************
From: Jim Kimmel
Sent: Saturday, July 15, 2006 4:05 PM
Subject: Re: VSP ALERT

Sondra:
When I first retired Judy and I opted out of dental and vision insurance. The vision did not look like it was giving you much for the price. I can go to Sears and get a pair for $99.00 as they have sales a couple of times a year- even lineless bifocals. As far as the dental is concerned I asked my dentist just before I retired what he thought of the plan and showed him the brochure. He said it was the worst one he had ever seen ! Old Doc Rosenthal is now no longer with us but I always have trusted his judgment.

Jim Kimmel
************************************************
From: Mary Ellen Angeletti >>Date: June 27, 2006 9:53:31 PM EDT>>To: susan.zelman@ODE.state.oh.us>>Subject: Steve Puckett's vote>>>>Dr. Zelman, I was dismayed at the STRS Board meeting on June 15th to >>witness Steve Puckett's vote against restraining the STRS Executive >>Director's spending of retiree funds without the okay of the STRS Board. >>The Board must be KNOWLEDGEABLE about the money the Executive Director >>spends and also the contracts he makes and must VOTE on the spending and >>the contracts. This is the fiduciary responsibility of each and every >>Board member. Puckett's vote against is irresponsible and I am furious >>that he represents the Ohio Department of Education. I would appreciate an >>explanation.

Mary Ellen Angeletti, STRS retiree

*****************************************

Bob Speers Writes:

We recently visited Europe, and were able to compare their plight with the opulent living of some people in the USA. The old top-down and lack of free speech and right to assembly governance system of Russia led to grief for many. Democracy and freedom of speech are the cornerstones of our great society.

Keep up the good work that you and the rest of CORE folks are doing. Free spending without immediate oversight is bad for STRS.

Bob
************************************
Posted on Wed, Mar. 29, 2006

Blackwell aide close to charter
By Dennis J. Willard and Doug Oplinger
Beacon Journal staff writers
COLUMBUS - Secretary of State J. Kenneth Blackwell's chief of staff has had an ongoing relationship with the state's largest charter school, receiving income and gifts from the Electronic Classroom of Tomorrow while the school at times overcharged the state millions of dollars.
Sherri Dembinski is third in charge in Blackwell's office, which oversees the chartering of nonprofit organizations. ECOT is a nonprofit organization.
Blackwell also oversees reporting of campaign contributions. Managers of ECOT -- including Dembinski -- collectively have contributed about $330,000 to Ohio Republicans since the founding of the school.
ECOT has been embroiled in controversy since the fall of 2000 as it attempted to start a publicly funded online school that would educate children in their homes on computers.
In 2002, the school was found by Department of Education auditors to have overcharged the state as much as$7 million for children it could not verify as on the rolls.
And three times, state auditors have questioned expenses by the school and its close relationship with the for-profit management company that oversees ECOT -- both of which were founded by Columbus businessman William Lager.
= [100.0]Lager and Dembinski's husband have been friends since high school.
Dembinski was on ECOT's board from its inception until March 2004, when she resigned and moved into a new role as vice president of a foundation related to ECOT -- a foundation whose beneficiaries include students and organizations affiliated with ECOT.
Dembinski said Tuesday that she checked to make sure there was no conflict of interest to serve on the board.
``I actually had the conversation with general counsel at the time I got on the board to make sure there was no conflict of interest,'' she said.
Dembinski said she resigned from the board because the school hired her son, Christopher.
``I felt that was a conflict of interest,'' she said.
Ethics question
A review of ethics disclosure records by the Akron Beacon Journal shows that she does have a problem.
She reported her relationship with ECOT to the Ohio Ethics Commission for 2000-2003, but failed to do so for 2004. A review of ECOT records shows that in that year, she received $3,000 as board president and $2,000 as a parting gift to buy a computer.
She also did not report in previous years that the school provided her with the use of a personal computer.
``It was definitely an oversight, and I will be filing a report with the Ethics Commission trying to explain that to them,'' Dembinski said of the 2004 omission.
She said the filing occurred while she was off work taking care of her husband, who had been diagnosed with cancer. An aide filled out the disclosure statement, ``brought it out to me and I signed it.''
She also said she didn't view the computers as gifts. Initially, all board members received computers so they could e-mail each other about school business, she said.
The second computer, she said, was a bonus.
Ohio Ethics Commission Executive Director David Freel said he could not comment specifically about Dembinski, but said that a person in her position is required to report sources of income, gifts, creditors, debtors and real estate.
If the commission were to investigate, it would ask whether this was an oversight or an effort to conceal her relationship, he said.
He also said that the investigation would have to determine whether the computers should be considered gifts.
Brian Hicks case
In July 2005, Brian Hicks, Gov. Bob Taft's former chief of staff, came under investigation for not reporting gifts that he received from Toledo coin dealer and Republican fundraiser Thomas Noe.
Hicks agreed with prosecutors to plead no contest to charges that he knowingly filed a false financial disclosure statement with the Ethics Commission.
In 2001 and 2002, Hicks did not report that he stayed at Noe's Florida vacation home. Hicks was fined the maximum $1,000. He avoided a maximum six-month jail sentence and was not placed on probation.
In all, Dembinski received $30,000 in board pay, $2,000 to buy a computer and the use of a computer of unknown value for her tenure with ECOT, according to records.
When she resigned from the ECOT board, she was making $92,000 in the Secretary of State's Office.
This year, ECOT enrolls about 6,500 students who study at home via computer, for which the school will receive about $39 million transferred from school districts that the students would otherwise attend.
Dembinski said that there was no conflict for her regarding the secretary of state's role in granting nonprofit status to ECOT.
Nonprofit status
Groups wanting to create a nonprofit organization submit their applications to Blackwell's office. The secretary of state has no legal obligation to test the legitimacy of an application, said spokesman James Lee. The office merely handles paperwork, and it's up to other agencies to enforce laws regarding nonprofits, he said.
ECOT has twice received nonprofit status from Blackwell's office. Nonprofits can use that status to be exempt from Ohio taxes.
However, the Ohio Department of Education encourages charter schools to also qualify for federal tax exemption under tougher Internal Revenue Service regulations. The IRS prohibits for-profit management companies from having influence over charter school boards and prohibits tax-exempt charter schools from political activity and lobbying.
Of the more than 250 publicly funded charter schools in Ohio, ECOT was one of a dozen last year that did not receive the federal tax-exempt status.
In three state audits, auditors raised questions about ECOT's relationship with the for-profit management company, Altair Learning Management, run by ECOT founder William Lager. And an e-mail between two state auditors quotes a former board member as saying it's understood that payments to Altair include political contributions and lobbying expense.
``I have no idea about that. My affiliation was with ECOT. The big expenditures for ECOT were the (computer) servers, PCs, delivery (of computers), teachers and software,'' Dembinski said. ``My focus was on the ECOT side. That sounds like a very incorrect statement to me.''
Records show that Dembinski attended meetings and communicated with ECOT's lawyer when they discussed the school's ability to meet the tougher federal requirements. She also was on the board committee that negotiated Altair's management contract.
As for political contributions, Dembinski said there was no concerted effort by her and three other ECOT-related individuals to donate in the same week to state Rep. Jon Husted, the legislature's strongest advocate for charter schools.
According to records kept by the secretary of state, Dembinski's $250 donation occurred within days of three other contributions totaling $4,000. She said she made the donation after talking to a friend.
On Husted's campaign report, she is identified as a ``self-employed consultant.''
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Making school change from the top>> Charters not following the law?>> By selliott Friday, May 19, 2006, 10:29 AM>> A coalition of charter school critics, led by the Ohio Federation of >Teachers, has released a new study of Ohio charter schools and how they >comply with state laws. Here's their summary. Let me know what you think::>> Although charter schools are defined by Ohio law as public schools, >those operated by educational management companies claim their teachers are >not public employees. Charter schools are required to have independent, >non-profit boards, yet boards assembled by management companies exercise >little independent oversight.>> A new study of the four largest charter school chains provides new >evidence that many Ohio charter schools do not operate as public schools, >contrary to state law. The research, conducted by the Braddock >Organization, reveals that charter schools are tightly controlled by their >management companies, which prefer secrecy over public accountability.>> The research refutes assertions by a charter school attorney in oral >arguments before the Ohio Supreme Court. On Nov. 29, 2005, Chad Readler of >the Jones, Day law firm, told the Court that charter schools ".carry every >indicia of a public entity." (*Transcript of Nov. 29, 2005, Ohio Supreme >Court hearing on Case 2004-1688, Ohio Congress of Parents and Teachers v. >State of Ohio Board of Education et al.)>> But, charter schools operated by National Heritage Academies, the Leona >Group, Summit Academy Management and White Hat Management (the largest >operators of charter schools in Ohio) refused to provide public information >when requested by Braddock. All but 2 responses to 71 public information >requests came from management company officials or attorneys, not the >charter schools themselves. All consistently declined to provide contracts >of teachers employed at the schools. Each said the teachers are employees >of the private management company and not public employees of the schools >themselves. Therefore, they responded, information about the teachers' >contracts is private.>> One board member also noted in his response that contracts of teachers >employed at the school are unavailable even to its board members.>> Yet, the schools make contributions to the State Teachers Retirement >System (STRS), a pension fund for public school teachers, in apparent >contradiction to these claims.>> The Ohio Supreme Court recently ruled on a similar public records issue. >On April 6, the Court ruled that the records of private or nonprofit >entities are public when the services they provide are the traditional >province of government and financed with public money. The ruling was made >in a case that dealt with the public records of Oriana House, which >operates private corrections facilities funded by public tax dollars.>> Private management companies will receive a majority of the nearly half >billion tax dollars the state pays to charter schools this year.>> In an effort to determine whether charter school boards exercise >meaningful oversight of the schools, Braddock researchers requested minutes >for charter school board meetings held in 2005. The documents provided >reveal a pattern of boards assembled and controlled by management companies >rather than by independent boards.>> The Leona Group>> The Leona Group's chain of charter schools includes 6 in Ohio that >enroll 1,027 students. Contrary to the requirement that each charter school >be run independently, one superboard controls operations for all of Leona's >charter schools in Ohio. This superboard conducted business jointly for all >of Leona's charters in one session, including the 6 currently open for >business and 3 more that are in the planning stages.>> Summit Academy Management>> Summit Academy Management's chain of charter schools includes 19 in Ohio >that enroll 2,250 students. Contrary to the requirement that each charter >school be run independently, one superboard also controlled operations for >all Ohio charters run by Summit Academy Management. Unlike Leona's joint >session for all charters, Summit's superboard appears to have convened and >adjourned each charter's business, holding several meetings in succession >on the same day.>> National Heritage Academies>> National Heritage Academies' chain of charter schools includes 9 in Ohio >that enroll 3,510 students. Contrary to the requirement that each charter >school be run independently, National Heritage charter board members >overlap, with the same group of people conducting business for multiple >National Heritage charter schools. Several board members appear to be >interchangeable, serving on multiple boards for short stints throughout the >year.>> White Hat Management>> White Hat Management's chain of charter schools includes 34 in Ohio that >enroll 16,000 students. White Hat runs one superboard and several smaller >groups of people who serve on the boards of multiple White Hat charter >schools. More than half of White Hat's charter school board members serve >on the boards of multiple schools. Three members serve on 18 different >White Hat charter school boards, one member serves on 17 different White >Hat charter school boards, one serves on 10 different boards, and three >serve on 9 different White Hat charter school boards. Eighteen members >serve on 2, 3 or 4 different White Hat charter school boards.>> "It's clear the public has no voice in these schools," said Tom Mooney, >chairman of the coalition, commenting on Braddock's findings. "No one but >the company CEO has any say.">> PTA Executive Director Barbara Sprague said, "Charter schools were >called community schools in Ohio to signify that they would establish >closer ties to the parents and community. They were to be less bureaucratic >and more autonomous than traditional public schools. But these schools are >just the opposite. Board members represent the management companies, not >the community or parents.">> "The central concern of the League of Women Voters of Ohio about >community schools continues to be accountability to the tax-paying public," >said Carol Gibson, co-president of the League of Women Voters of Ohio.>> Permalink Comments (5) Post your comment Categories: charter >schools and school choice>> Comments>> school levy spin and marketing.>> Reader Comment:>> By chartteach>> May 31, 2006 07:56 PM Link to this>> Unfortunately, most charter schools teachers don't have a contract. We >wish we could have a union as well. Most charter school board members are >there for the resume building. They are not involved, nor do they seem to >care about the school they are working with.>
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ALRIGHT! BARNET WOLF , reporter for 'The Dispatch.'> That's the kind of detailed reporting WE'RE talking about !!!!!!!!>>> FRONT PAGE: Jack Chapman likes to travel!> Bet/ 2000 and 2002, he took over 3 dozen trips costing STRS $50,000.>> The Reynoldsburg 'teacher' (when he teaches if you can call 1 remedial > math class and then sitting in other peoples' classes as an ass't all a.m. > , then a study hall and home as his lunch and planning period were only pm > periods. as i recall, when i was his sub the principal said 'well you can > go now at 12:30 to 1:30 .approx.this is how they 'don't have to count on > him being there. the kids for his remedial math class never knew when or > when not to attend the several times i was there for him).>> Anyway, back to Dispatch.>> Chapman's travels helped push STRS' travel costs to the highest of the 5 > pension plans.>> Sen. Schuring found Jack's travels outrageous and questioned the purpose > of his extensive traveling.> Jack was the most active traveler of all 5 pension plans.> THIS IS NOT NEW!>> In '95, Jack's trips were reported cost #$36,736 for '94.>> CHAPMAN REFUSED COMMENT.>> Jack missed 75 school days for the past school year and 27 more for P.B., > professional and sick leave to add up to over 1/2 of school days.>> STRS PAYS FOR HIS SUBSTITUTES FOR STRS BOARD BUSINESS (and for the other > 4 'active' board members). For JUST JACK, that totalled $6000 for past yr.>> Jack is also pres. of central Ohio chaptr of OEA (THERE'S THAT NAME AGAIN) > who paid him an additional $21,523 a year in salary and RETIREMENT > CONTRIBUTIONS (bumping up his retirement, it would seem).>> The $218,500 for STRS' travel expenses outside of Ohio for 2000-2002 > surpassed any of the other 4 pension plans.>> The largest of the 5 pension plans , PERS, paid and average of LESS THAN > $20,000 per year for travel beyond Ohio in 2001-2002.>> "OUR BOARD MEMBERS JUST DON'T TRAVEL MUCH" said Tom Sherman, gov't > relations officer for OPERS.>> Schuring IS NOT satisfied with STRS' explanation that travel was necessary > for board's responsibilities to admin. the fund.>> Schuring says that while members may need to learn latest trends, THE > INDUSTRY IS JUST NOT THAT DYNAMIC that so many need to attend so many > conferences.>> Eugene Norris made 25 trips for $42,250. He traveled to Hawaii.>> Sidaway took 24 trips for nearly $38,400. ONE TRIP TO HAWATII cost nearly > $3800. Others included Las Vegas and Matha's Vineyard and 6 trips to the > west coast.>> Gaylord who represented PETRO when auditor, spent $16,312 and when she was > PETRO's rep for OPERS claimed more than $12,000 in travel outside Ohio > attending more conferences than any other OPERS board member.>> Rick Moore who was Betty Montgomery's rep had more than $10,600 in travel > expenses outside Ohio to 'stay in the loop' (under orders ). Only trips > that all other board members took were approved for him.>> A list of Jack's travels to where and why is printed on pg. A2 of the > Dispatch.>> HOWEVER THE QUESTION IS:>> DID HE ACTUALLY ATTEND ALL THE CONFERENCES OR BLOW SOME OFF FOR GOLF?>> I hear he goes nowherre without his clubs and SOME skip conferences to > play golf in exotic locales instead!>> PARTY'S OVER, JACK.>*********************************************
Lima News
7/17/06
LETTER: Charter schools not the answerJAMES PERINE, Lima The Lima News and the Buckeye Institute claim we should fund more charger schools. The Columbus Dispatch just completed an audit of the biggest management company, White Hat; owned by Ken Blackwell’s biggest supporter. White Hat got $109 million in tax money last year to manage 34 charter schools. The state spent $460 million in total state aid last year, but the management firms don’t have to disclose their profits, even though this is our tax dollars they are using. If you are looking for the best education for your children, compare the state’s “academic emergency” list of schools. Of the 264 charter schools operating last year, 60 percent were in this category while 8 percent of public schools were on the list. If this is what the Buckeye Institute claims is a success story, they are clueless. Now the Republicans at the state capital want to open even more charter schools when over half are on the emergency list. If you have time take a day off when school starts and go to school with your children, then you will realize what teachers do every day to help them learn; it’s not easy. There are no easy answers to our school problems, despite what others say.
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July 15, 2006
Dear Governor Taft:
With the resignation of Judith Fisher from the STRS Board you have the opportunity to appoint a replacement. Tom Hall should be your choice. He has the expertise,training,
And experience to serve the needs of STRS in this time of crisis for STRS,retirees, amd those who will someday retire. I will not here delineate his many accomplishments and awards. Others, I am sure, have provided that information to you. I should, however, emphasize one of Tom’s qualities which is perhaps the most important. That would be his commitment to operate in agreement with Ohio Revised code as it relates to STRS. Failure to take seriously the basic purpose of STRS- to be good stewards of the STRS fund- has been a serious problem in the recent past,leaving consequences which are impacting the present for retirees as well as the futures of those recently found guilty in court. He also appreciates the struggles retirees experience as they try to pay for necessary medication, pay for extremely high health insurance, and see mismanagement
Of their hard earned contributions to STRS.
Governor Taft, quite honestly you dealt a hard blow to all Ohio educators when you line item vetoed a law which would have empowered the Ohio Inspector General to investigate STRS. Many believe you did this to protect Petro and Montgomery
who were on the STRS Board during the worst of the “ethically challenged” decisions. It is my understanding that they voted for many of the decisions which were not only unethical but very harmful to the retirees. Now that Blackwell is the Republican gubernatorial candidate we would all appreciate it if you would reconsider and allow an Ohio Inspector General investigation. We worked very hard to persuade the Ohio General Assembly to place the enabeling bill before you to sign. When you vetoed it you sent a message to those with the “entitlement” attitude which will encourage them to continue their wasteful and callous ways at STRS. Please reconsider your decision in this matter.
Governor Taft, because of the veto for the Ohio Inspector General you have impeded the rehabilitation of STRS. One way to show that you do indeed have the motivation to help place STRS back onto the right track would be to appoint Tom Hall for Judith Fisher’s STRS Board seat. This time do the right thing!
Sincerely,
James O. Kimmel, STRS Retiree