Get documents about "Usaa Qualified Retirement Annuity - DOC
Description
Usaa Qualified Retirement Annuity document sample
Document Sample
High Life 014 PCN Home | Post to PCN | G-Group | Calendar | HL Archive | Sign Up 11/08/2009
PCN Services – High Life Newsletter, Event, Death, Illness, News Notices and PCN Calendar
Large Web Community for World’s Largest Airline
A merger on Aug 1, 2009 of RSP and Delta Retired Pilots Communication Network
High Life
For all Delta people who have truly touched the High Life/
Dear PCN,
Group Section……
Mark’s Remarks:
Ever hear your teenager say “PSYCH?”
Here is the urban dictionary meaning; A slang term that began in the late 70's. The word psych is used to
negate what ever statement might have come before it. It basically means, "just kidding" or "yea, right".
Well, the major goof up that concerns the open enrollment has been what amounts to a
“psych.” A real mind blower. A company published offering of opt-back-in for lifetime
COBRA, with HCTC eligibility, only to learn it was never IRS approved. All, I can say is, WOW!
Here is link to Kight’s “oops” letter: http://www.dp3.org/data/Kight_COBRA_cancelled.pdf
Here is an excerpt from Kight’s oops letter:
“The Policy Director told us that they had received a copy of our letter and reviewed it at high levels
within the Internal Revenue Service, the agency with ultimate jurisdiction over eligibility for the
HCTC. Delta does not know why the letter was supplied to the HCTC Program and escalated within
the government. Nevertheless, we have spent the last week exploring any and all options pursuing a change in
this decision by the IRS.” Rob Kight, VP – Compensation, Benefits & Services
Editor: In the above excerpt, it is more than a little disappointing to me that since a concerned pilot
showed an HCTC official his Sept 28th letter from Kight, that the HR VP focuses on that, rather than
the failure to get the program approved. One would think that before offering a program of this
expanse, you would jump over the right hurdles. Apparently, to many of our chagrin, that did not
happen.
NOW HEAR THIS! If you have made your opt-back-in election in open enrollment. And
regardless if you chose Age65 COBRA or DFCMP you will default into DFCMP. Further, you
will be forced to pay 100% of the premium with NO HCTC subsidy for either. You must revise
your election.
Changes can be made up to the enrollment deadline!
Please don’t forget the DAL Benefits - Open Enrollment deadline of Nov 17th.
See more about insurance in that section below.
Mark’s Tidbits:
Reminder on REPLY inside the google group notices. Please do not reply to the notices since
it goes to a manager account that is not so accessible as straight email or PCN forms are.
Posts to group were under an Index page but am starting to use brand new thread post so as to
control content of subject line for readers quick perusal. Only down side is that the archive section of
our group will (in time) become quite lengthy. Will deal with that later.
Picasa 3 – Neat photo management program - free from google.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rskC6c_5L1M
News Section……
Delta News (Recent stories of interest): Yahoo, AJC
Delta deal best way to keep flying high
By Andre Jackson
Editorial Board
Sunday, November 08, 2009
It is in everyone’s best interest if an agreement on a new lease with the airline is approved by City
Council before Franklin leaves office at end of year.
Anyone who’s ever bargained hard with a salesperson knows successful negotiations are often not
easy. The degree of difficulty in reaching common ground often increases with the complexity of the
deal or the amount of money involved.
That realization puts in context the city of Atlanta’s haggling with Delta Air Lines over a new lease at
Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. Reaching a mutually agreeable pact governing the most-
active airline at the world’s busiest airport is no small matter, even during the best of times. Factor in
the Great Recession that’s thrown gale-force turbulence at the airline industry and negotiations
become even more of a high-stakes give-and-take. In a real sense, the traveling public and our
regional economy have a lot riding on the outcome.
Read More: http://www.ajc.com/search/content//printedition/2009/11/08/hartsed11081.html
++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Delta's October traffic fell 6.5 percent
Delta Air Lines says October traffic fell 6.5 percent as capacity dropped 8.3
percent
On 12:40 pm EST, Thursday November 5, 2009
ATLANTA (AP) -- Delta Air Lines Inc. said it cut its flying capacity by 8.3 percent in October, as traffic fell
6.5 percent from October 2008.
The world's biggest airline operator said it and its Northwest and regional airline subsidiaries flew 15.3 billion
revenue passenger miles, or one paying passenger flown one mile. That was down from 16.37 billion revenue
passenger miles a year earlier.
Capacity fell to 18.18 billion available seat miles, from 19.82 billion a year earlier.
With capacity falling faster than traffic, Delta's planes were 1.6 percentage points fuller, at 84.2 percent.
Read more: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Deltas-October-traffic-fell-apf-1837456267.html?x=0&.v=1
+++++++++++++++++++++
Airplane part falls onto NY home's front lawn
Exhaust cone falls off Delta jet headed to Tokyo, lands on lawn of NY home
On 1:53 pm EST, Friday November 6, 2009
ROOSEVELT, N.Y. (AP) -- An engine tail cone popped off a Delta airlines jet shortly after takeoff from New
York's Kennedy Airport. It plummeted thousands of feet into a Long Island neighborhood before landing
harmlessly on someone's lawn.
FAA spokeswoman Arlene Salac (SAHL'-ak) said Friday the jet doesn't need the part to fly and passengers
weren't in any danger.
Neither the pilots nor people on the ground noticed the mishap when it happened Thursday evening.
The flight continued to its destination. Salac says Delta personnel reported the part missing after the plane
landed in Tokyo.
The 20-pound part measured 4-feet long and 3-feet in diameter. A resident spotted it hours later and called
police.
Delta says an investigation is under way.
Other Airline News (Recent stories of interest):
American Airlines attacks Delta-JAL venture
By Justin Baer in New York
Published: November 8 2009 22:35 | Last updated: November 8 2009 22:35
American Airlines’ top executive has delivered his most pointed attack yet on Delta Air Lines’ bid to
form a joint venture with Japan Airlines, arguing that Delta would face an uphill battle in convincing
US regulators to approve the partnership.
American, the world’s second-largest carrier, is seeking a venture of its own with JAL, its partner in
the Oneworld alliance and a vital link to Asian destinations. JAL, mired in a complex restructuring
plan, is in talks with both US carriers to strengthen ties before the US and Japan agree to ease airport
access to foreign carriers next year.
Read More: http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/35ea80c6-ccaa-11de-8e30-
00144feabdc0.html?referrer_id=yahoofinance&ft_ref=yahoo1&segid=03058&nclick_check=1
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++
American making financial case to woo JAL
American Airlines tells Japan Airlines that siding with Delta would be risky
By David Koenig, AP Airlines Writer
On 6:04 pm EST, Friday November 6, 2009
DALLAS (AP) -- American Airlines is turning on the charm as it attempts to persuade Japan Airlines Corp. to
strengthen their relationship instead of running off with a new suitor, Delta Air Lines Inc.
In recent days, the CEO of American parent AMR Corp. visited Tokyo to meet with his JAL counterpart, and
the chief financial officer will go there next week, AMR officials say.
American's pitch is simple: Stay with us and things will get better. Go with Delta and you never know what
might happen.
American says if JAL switches from the oneworld alliance of global airlines to Delta's SkyTeam alliance, it
would cost JAL up to $500 million in lost revenue in the first two years after the changeover.
That figure assumes Delta initially will only be able to replace about half the revenue-sharing and other money
that JAL currently gets from its oneworld partners, including American, based in Fort Worth, Texas.
Read More: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/American-making-financial-apf-700303057.html?x=0&.v=1
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Nov. 6, 2009, 1:18 p.m. EST
British Airways' shares gain in the wake of quarterly results
By Steve Goldstein, MarketWatch
LONDON (MarketWatch) -- British Airways reported Friday a wider second-quarter loss
as the airline, facing a potential cabin-crew strike, saw its revenue hemorrhage as business
travel slumped and cargo prices skidded.
British Airways (LSE:UK:BAY) (NQB:BAIR.Y) had a loss of 102 million pounds ($169
million) during the three months ended Sept. 30, compared to a loss of 69 million pounds
during the prior-year period.
Quarterly revenue dropped 51% to 1.22 billion pounds.
During the first half of the carrier's fiscal year, average fares slumped 12%, helping to drag
passenger revenue down by 14%, reflecting in particular declining demand for business travel.
Cargo revenue was even worse, skidding 31% on an 8% drop in traffic and a 25% drop in
prices.
Read more: http://www.marketwatch.com/story/british-airways-loss-widens-as-revenue-slumps-2009-11-06?siteid=yhoof
Finance Section (section containing items with financial consequence to our group):
FINANCE: CLAIMS/PBGC/HCTC/INSURANCE/PLANNING/TAX/ESTATE
Remaining financial items for retirees to watch:
After Aug 2007 these are retirement items remaining with financial consequence.
1. PBGC 2nd look re-calc at qualified annuity benefits - completed 8/24/07
2. PBGC make up lump payment for underpayments since termination: most reported
received 1/31/08
3. Final claim distribution by DAL through BSI - pending (now likely in '10 according to Kight)
4. Class Action suit against DAL concerning 5 yr look-back worth in excess of $100 million -
withdrawn
5. Final PBGC re-calc "determination" of qualified annuity (likely after claim stock sale) -
pending
6. Pension reinstatement/contribution request by DP3 representing the retired pilots. very long
shot....pending
7. Roth IRA creation as per Worker, Retiree, and Employer Recovery Act of 2008 - deadline
June 22nd, 2009
8. Expiration of HCTC 80% premium subsidy will expire on December 31, 2010.
+++++++++++++++++++++
William Kerschner (Thanks Bill)
kerschner88@earthlink.net
Subject: USAA CEO Announces Expanded Member Eligibility
Dear Colonel Kerschner:
I hope you agree that all men and women who have honorably served in the U.S. Armed
Forces deserve to do business with a financial services company that understands their
unique needs, appreciates their service and does the right thing because it is the right thing to
do.
Your USAA Board of Directors believes so, and I am very pleased to let you know that USAA
membership is now open to anyone who has honorably served in the U.S. military.
Starting with our first eligibility expansion in 1923, the USAA family has grown by embracing an ever-
larger portion of America's active duty, retired and separated military members. Each time, we have
been careful to ensure that USAA has the financial strength, the staff and the technology to maintain
our high standards for exemplary member service, competitive pricing and value. Opening our doors
today to all veterans who have honorably served, regardless of dates or length of service, fulfills our
mission and leaves no one behind.
If you know veterans who honorably served but haven't become USAA members, please share this
news with them by clicking on the "Share USAA" button so that they may know the value of USAA
and, by joining, their spouses and children can enjoy the benefits of membership as well.
Sincerely,
Josue (Joe) Robles Jr.
Maj. General, USA (Ret.)
President and CEO
Link to USAA: https://www.usaa.com/inet/ent_logon/Logon
Insurance (issues about health, life or disability that are of interest):
Special Note: Some of the emails and responses posted below concern the situation with open
enrollment BEFORE we learned of the withdrawal.
++++++++++++++++++
DP3 FAQ’s for 2010 Open Enrollment
Yet to be revised in light of the benefits goof up, but still informative!
http://www.dp3.org/ns/2010oeFAQ.html
++++++++++++++++++
Correction: In HL 013 I stated the following in error. “Editor:……. On the “after 65 Cobra”, it is my
understanding that it is “secondary” insurance, much in the same mode as a Medicare supplement
plan.”
Terms and titles are a never ending struggle to understand the healthcare insurance thing. The
company has one name, the insurance company another, etc.
Some of us are eligible to opt back in to Lifetime or Bankruptcy COBRA.
The only plan that qualifies is the DFCMP Standard Option. UHC call this a PPO plan.
There is a special name for the above who are on Lifetime COBRA – “Age65 COBRA”.
Age 65 COBRA is actually the name of the plan for those pilots who chose to take advantage of this
one time offering to opt back in. So my silly understanding of what is called “age” 65 COBRA is really
our bankruptcy or lifetime COBRA that pilots opting in would choose.
++++++++++++++++++++++
Comparing Medical Plans
I don’t know why comparing medical plans are so difficult. Cost, coverage, quality, propensity for cost
increases, risk of plan change or termination (with the potential advent of a gvt option) are all to be considered.
But before you can do that, you have to find the cotton pickin’ plan details. Not an easy task. Should be the
first thing that is on the web page but you have to hunt and peck. Here are the two main Delta brochures that
will help you find the info needed to compare before you make an open enrollment decision:
2010 Benefits Overview
http://pcn.homestead.com/files/Misc_Files/G3P.pdf
2010 Healthcare Benefit Handbook (incl. Medical Plan Options)
http://pcn.homestead.com/files/Misc_Files/G2F.pdf
+++++++++++++++++++++
From: Tim Carman
Date: 11/3/2009 1:46:27 PM
To: mark@pilotcommunication.net
Subject: Cobra Coverage
Hi Mark,
I’ve been reading through the emails concerning the new Cobra plan being offered to retirees. I am one of
those pilots that can benefit from the plan.
I am currently enrolled with the HCTC and use Blue Cross Blue Shield for medical coverage as it is the only
state qualified plan that the HCTC recognizes in Texas. I have $1000.00 deductible with $25.00 co-pays for the
most part. I do not have access to mail order drug plans. My monthly cost using the HCTC is about $230.00.
With the new Delta Cobra plan I can gain access to United Health Care and have a $650.00 deductible,
$30.00 co-pays plus 100% coverage for preventive care such as physicals etc. This is something that I
haven’t had access to under my old plan. I also have an improved drug plan which includes mail order
coverage. The cost to me will be essentially the same at $231.00
In that I am already registered with the HCTC, I simply have to send in a registration update form, a copy of
a full month invoice, which I can print online on the Direct benefit website, and a cobra enrollment form which
the ESC says will be sent to me shortly after our enrollment period closes.
For me the new option seems to offer me more with no increase in cost.
Hope this helps some retirees out.
Tim Carman
DFW
Editor: While I have cautioned about jumping with both feet into the window to opt back in to
bankruptcy COBRA, one has to consider many things. There is a political risk that one must also
consider. If national health care is adopted there may be some impact on all plans, but especially the
HCTC approved state qualified plans. That could force current insured into some form of public
option. Jumping back now into the bankruptcy COBRA may be a strategy, especially if it is not too
expensive. It would allow one to lock in, for the next few years, the COBRA DFCMP with the ability to
always opt back out. Just another thing to consider.
++++++++++++++++++++++
Email wjjp@earthlink.net
Issue Area -- Insurance
Comments --- I spoke with the "My Delta" folks today (nov5) to ask about the one time cobra choice
we have. Our letter from Mr Kight of Oct 5 says coverage extends to spouses, survivors and
dependent children. The woman I spoke with said that coverage did not extend to dependent
children. Can anyone get a definitive answer before the Nov 17th deadline? I have started a case with
Delta but who knows when I will get an answer. This will have a major impact on my health care
choices going forward.
Regards,
Bill Pantesco
Editor: Bill, I responded to you and asked a couple of my friends to help out with an answer. Here is
Denis and Bob’s help below:
Mark,
Don't know the answer but would like to find out myself. The ESC also told me children
were not authorized for the Cobra and my open enrollment choices do not have that
option listed for my daughter. It is a deal breaker for me also. All other Cobra plans
that I am aware of DO allow children up to 23 years old if in college or 19 if not in
college. With Delta being self-insured I'm not sure if any State or Federal regulations
would apply or what recourse one would have to enforce them. Another good deal from
Delta. If you find anything more out let me know also as this is a deal breaker for me also.
Bob
Mark and Bill,
Here is what DP3 is saying about this situation in their FAQ's:
26. I see the COBRA option for myself and my wife on the Delta Benefit site, but not for my dependent children.
My understanding is they can also be included in HCTC, but wouldn't that require a children COBRA option?
Remember that the COBRA is offered to you as a retiree. Whichever offering you, the retiree, chooses will be the policy
under which dependents are included - if you so desire to include them. Your dependents, whether they be a spouse or
eligible children or whatever, are included under your election. Mr. Kight's memo is specific: "In these cases, this election
will also be extended to such pilot's eligible spouses, survivors, and dependent children." Looking at it another way, you
can't choose COBRA for yourself and DPMP for your children. You will be buying one policy for all of your family.
27. I've heard that some retirees do not see the COBRA option in their paperwork and some do not see listings
for dependents. Are there any glitches in the online enrollment process?
Some retired pilots are not showing the COBRA option on their paperwork - if you think you are eligible and do not have
the option, call the Delta ESC. Also, when switching from the HVO to the Age65 COBRA option, sometimes you cannot
de-select the HVO option, and it appears you are signing up for both. It has been reported to us that simply continuing the
process will present the correct information at the end of the registration process, but we recommend that you call the
ESC to ensure you have completed the selections properly. Finally, some members are reporting that they do not see
enrollment options for their dependents - see answer number 26 above, and call the ESC to ensure your coverage
selections are actually available and properly confirmed.
Mark,
(with regard to Bill’s dependent question) I have heard that this has happened to others - and it is evidently a
mistake in how his information was loaded. He needs to call the ESC at 800 MYDELTA and start a case
number.
Denis
++++++++++++++++++
From: MD8T8DRVR@aol.com
Date: 11/6/2009 1:51:37 PM
To: mark@pilotcommunication.net
Subject: Re: Stand by
Hey Mark;
Thanks for getting back to me.
I have been on a state approved Blue Cross plan here in GA for about four years. It's a full coverage PPO plan that costs
my wife and I appx. $1700 per month before the HCTC credit or $344 out of pocket. I will probably stay where I am but
this is not good news for guys that wanted some option. It appeared the Cobra was going to be more expensive anyway.
Thanks for all the info.
Jack
++++++++++++++++++++
From: Don Piltz <dp1317@comcast.net>
Date: November 7, 2009 10:32:28 AM EST
To: PCN Dir <mark@pilotcommunication.net>
Cc: will.buregey5@dp3.org
Subject: Cobra & HCTC Reversal
What an incredible scam/hoax or incompetent blunder at the very least. The thought of not 'pre-
qualifying' something of this importance with the IRS is arrogant or yet again .. incompetent.
According to Mr. Kight's latest letter the default coverage for any of us having chosen "Age 65 Cobra"
will be DFCMP Standard at 100% premium; far greater than DPMP @49% subsidy. Anyone who made
their selection & blindly went on vacation will have a nice surprise from Mr. Kight upon return. I
certainly hope an HCTC qualifying VEBA plan becomes available in 2010 and allows us to switch in
mid-stream (mid-stream seems unlikely with Delta). What a cruel enrollment period this has become for
some of us.
Don Piltz
retired DAL
Will’s Respone:
Don:
To say that I share your frustration with this annual benefit enrollment period for Delta retirees would
be the understatement of the year!
To begin with, many of us feel that Delta did a poor job of explaining the various benefit options, and
the label they choose for the one time “COBRA” offering was not a very good description of the
program. This led to much confusion among retirees and scores of DP3 members wrote to us asking
exactly what plan included the “one time COBRA” offer.
When we first started to hear rumors that Delta had not pre-qualified this plan with the IRS I was
incredulous. Giving Delta the benefit of the doubt, I did not pay much attention to the rumors until we
discovered that indeed, the IRS had determined that the Delta offering of a one time COBRA option
was not a recognized COBRA policy by the IRS and the HCTC program. In spite of the problem that
changing these options in the middle of the enrollment has created, I can only imagine the confusion
and economic harm that would have resulted if hundreds of retirees had selected this program only to
have their applications for the HCTC denied in January because the program was not eligible for the
tax credit.
I agree that Delta’s proposed solution for those who had initially selected the “one time COBRA” is
inadequate, and after we receive sufficient input from DP3 members we will ask that Delta extend the
enrollment period and come up with a better solution for those who do not update their selections
following Delta’s announcement that the COBRA offering was rescinded.
Thanks for your support as an Honor Roll member of DP3.
Will Buergey
Chairman, DP3
buergeyw@alphacomm.net
Editor: I ditto Will’s comments to Don.
On another point, I had a nice phone conversation with Will the other day and learned more of his
dedication and direction for the DP3. I am personally very impressed with Will’s motives and
dedication and that goes for the rest of the current team at DP3. I urge those who may have
dropped, for one reason or another, to re-consider and support the DP3. I don’t get paid or
encouraged to give this endorsement, it is coming from my own convictions. Let’s stay connected,
but also let’s support one another in our collective efforts. The DP3 is earning our support.
++++++++++++++++++++
From: Barry Boustead
Date: 11/8/2009 6:35:45 AM
Subject: FW: URGENT UPDATE - DELTA WITHDRAWS COBRA INSURANCE OPTION
Any chance we can go after Kight's job for gross incompetence? After Richard Anderson's words regarding
professionalism in the NW pilot fiasco, I think we need to hold his boys to the same standard. The enrollment
date should be extended and Delta should have to eat the 80% until they get it straightened out. This is beyond
incredible.
Barry Boustead barry_boustead@hotmail.com
Reply to Barry:
From: Michael Cox
Date: 11/8/2009 11:39:44 AM
To: Subject: Re: URGENT UPDATE - DELTA WITHDRAWS COBRA INSURANCE OPTION
“The enrollment date should be extended and Delta should have to eat the 80% until they get it straightened
out.”
True, but it won't happen because they're the ins and we are the outs. I did an in-depth look at
Delta's financial position and history since deregulation (1978) for one of my Master's classes. Delta
now owes more money than the total it has made since it's founding. In the last 3 years debt has
become exponential. Even if the economic times were good right now, Delta would have a tough road
to regain profitability. Their only option is a "Continental" - that is a second bankruptcy to clean up the
mess they are now in. It's imperative that we push DP3 to extract our final disbursement from the BK
settlement before Delta can erase that in BK2.
Mike
++++++++++++++++++++
My Enrollment Choice ….. None - by Mark:
I was going to opt-back-in, but because of recent developments, I will remain out of the DFCMP and in the state
qualified HCTC plan (by Anthem-Blue KY) until I grow up and turn 60. At that time, I will re-evaluate options
comparing the then DPMP with my state qualified plan.
This is all subject to review if a VEBA (by efforts of our DP3) gets created or if national health care changes the
rules of the game.
Mark Sztanyo
Pension:
_________________________________________________________________________________
Commercial Section……
Investment (Legitimate firms that have helped our groupare encouraged to contact PCN to add articles here):
Section reserved for future content.
Travel & Non-Revving (share a quick reco):
_________________________________________________________________________________
Life Section…
Cares and Concerns:
Illness
Misc Posts:
Ted Langworthy Email flybear@peoplepc.com
Issue Area -- General
Comments -- on the death notices, I would like to see the most recent listed first as do most of the
guys I've asked. Otherwise, you're scrolling through 15 that you've already read.--thx,Ted
Editor: Yeah, I would like that too, however Google doesn’t allow me that option. I am experimenting
with creating a “new discussion” thread for each death notice. In that way they most recent would
always be at the top and in addition the subject line would contain the person’s name. I would
appreciate your comments on that method.
As to archiving death info, I will ask our death notice manager to help keep up a spreadsheet that
compiles all the info that we have on the subject. That has been and will continue to be a very useful
tool. http://pcn.homestead.com/files/Misc_Files/Copy_of_DELTA_DECEASED_ALL_YEARS_WIP.2009.xls
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Mark: FYI, I just spent the afternoon trying to find out about the free "Identity Protection Plan". After I
talked to three different people none of them knew anything I was talking about. I finally was told to go
on line to fined out about it. None of them ever heard of DALRC Group
Geo. Baker Machgun4@aol.com
++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Mark,
Thank you for this very timely and helpful information.
DAL, as usual, appears to have no interest in helping their employees (particularly retirees) with any
questions or issues that may arise.
The company attitude seems to be "you find it, you figure it out, good by and good luck"!
The Delta Employee Service Center is a joke.
Without the PCN we would all be "out of luck" with few if any place to turn for helpful information
regarding DAL.
Thank you!
Bill Rice
billrice451@yahoo.com
+++++++++++++++++++++++++
Mark,
The 2010 Healthcare Benefit Handbook download File/G2F.pdf, cover
page, says effective Jan 1, 2008.
Larry O
Editor: Thanks Larry, but that is the handbook that is still out there and most is still current. Maybe it
is too expensive to update the revision date. Oh, well, it is what it is.
+++++++++++++++++++++
From: Tim Carman
Date: 11/6/2009 12:05:33 PM
To: misc@pilotcommunication.net
Subject: Thanks!
Mark,
Thank goodness that we have the communications network to spread the word about this ridiculous faux pas
by Kight and Delta Airlines. Had I not been a member of the network I would never had know about the lack of
IRS approval for the "Age 65 Cobra Standard Plan".
Thanks
Tim
Human Interest:
From: Jean Cinotto
Date: 11/3/2009 7:38:05 PM
To: misc@pilotcommunication.net; mark@pilotcommunication.net
Subject: Wheels for Warriors
Mark,
You have such an extensive network of pilots and retired pilots that could make such an wonderful impact. I
would welcome any help in trying to get this off the ground and a van to at least one our severely wounded
military. Thank you so much.
Jean Marie Cinotto (spouse of retired pilot and active flight attendant)
Wheels for Warriors
Airline employees regularly transport people from point A to point B. We can help transport the most
deserving―our wounded warriors of the U.S. Military―on a daily basis through Wheels for Warriors.
Conversion vans are given to our seriously wounded soldiers that will need permanent transportation in
specially-outfitted vans.
Presently, our wounded military get approximately $11,000 as a one-time, lifetime payment for a van and
$28,000 one-time, lifetime payment from the VA to get the conversions. A converted van with many of the
special items for specific needs costs around $50,000. The nominal payment these brave men receive for their
lifetime falls short of what is needed, especially given their sacrifice.
Our airline and other airlines have the opportunity to help. Send your donations to the following address and
write in “Airline.” A van from airline employees and retirees will be given to one of the many deserving men.
Two vans were given at an Army-Navy game and one was recently given to a Marine by the USNA Class of 74.
See the story at http://www.hometownannapolis.com/news/top/2009/09/13-43/Navy-grads-rally-to-support-
wounded-veteran.html
November holds special significance with Veterans Day. We can make a difference and continue to transport.
Two ways to donate:
1. Online by credit card at the secure credit card site at
https://secure.west-point.org/osot/donate/
Please specify VAN and AIRLINE in the message box when making an online donation to Wheels for
Warriors.
2. Send your donation to:
Operation Support Our Troops
P.O. Box 404
North Kingstown , RI 02852
Note VAN and AIRLINE on your check
For more information, go to
http://www.west-point.org/family/support-our-troops/wheels.html
Wheels for Warriors is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Donations are processed through West Point-Org
which is operated by volunteers serving the Long Gray Line.
+++++++++++++++++++++
SHHH ... it's a SURPRISE for !
SECRET SECRET SECRET ...
For Christmas, I am secretly compiling a scrapbook of memories of my daddy (Captain Walter L.
Wright) for my mom.
In that we will have the tendency to mope and be sad that this is the first Christmas without daddy, I would like
to give her a gift of fun great happy humorous stories of daddy to make her laugh instead of be sad .... and also
for the kids to show later to their kids so that they can remember their daddy and "Captain."
I am asking ANY and ALL of you who knew my father, to PLEASE write down your favorite
story/memory of daddy and send it to me. I'd also like a picture of you and daddy if you have one. I
would like to have as many pages as possible of fabulous funny and loving memories of my daddy and his
fabulous friends, family, parishoners, mates put together in this scrapbook as possible.
PLEASE forward this email to ANYONE and everyone who knew my daddy.
Please forward any and all stories to me at im52ioblu@hotmail.com
or by snail mail to Meredith MaGuirk; 2855 Sutherland Drive; Thompson's Station, TN 37179.
I can also be found on facebook as Meredith Wright MaGuirk. I need ALL entries no later than December 10th
to get it all together.
Thank you in advance for helping me with this fabulous Christmas suprise! Again, PLEASE
keep this a secret! THANK YOU!
Meredith MaGuirk
Ring Leader of Circus MaGuirk
circusmaguirk.wordpress.com
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
INFORMATION EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW........................
Blood Clots/Stroke - They Now Have a Fourth Indicator, the Tongue
Please read:
STROKE IDENTIFICATION:
During a BBQ, a friend stumbled and took a little fall - she assured
everyone that she was fine (they offered to call paramedics) .she said
she had just tripped over a brick because of her new shoes.
They got her cleaned up and got her a new plate of food. While
she appeared a bit shaken up, Ingrid went about enjoying herself the
rest of the evening
Ingrid's husband called later telling everyone that his wife had been
taken to the hospital - (at 6:00 pm Ingrid passed away.) She had
suffered a stroke at the BBQ.. Had they known how to identify the
signs of a stroke, perhaps Ingrid would be with us today. Some don't
die they end up in a helpless, hopeless condition instead.
It only takes a minute to read this...
A neurologist says that if he can get to a stroke victim within 3 hours
he can totally reverse the effects of a stroke...totally. He said the trick
was getting a stroke recognized, diagnosed, and then getting
the patient medically cared for within 3 hours, which is tough.
RECOGNIZING A STROKE
Thank God for the sense to remember the '3' steps, STR. Read
and Learn!
Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify.
Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster. The stroke victim
may suffer severe brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize
the symptoms of a stroke.
STROKE: Remember the 1st Three Letters.... S.T.R.
Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three
simple questions:
S *Ask the individual to SMILE.
T *Ask the person to TALK and SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE (Coherently)
(i.e. It is sunny out today.)
R *Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS.
If he or she has trouble with ANY ONE of these tasks, call emergency number
immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.
New Sign of a Stroke -------- Stick out
Your Tongue
NOTE: Another 'sign' of a stroke is this: Ask the person to 'stick' out his
tongue. If the tongue is 'crooked', if it goes to one side or the other, that is
also an indication of a stroke.
A cardiologist says if everyone who gets this e-mail sends it to 10 people; you
can bet that at least one life will be saved.
Good Read (Good book recommendation & community author’s blurbs):
Event Announcements (Click here for PCN Org & Groups Page): to post pcn.calendar@gmail.com
2009's Hangar Party
This year we wish to add something extra prior to the start of our annual hangar
party.......and that is a special memorial service at 11:00 in remembrance of our good
buddy Capt. Bruce Cave.
A gathering of friends feels like the right time not only to remember Bruce but also
to honor the memories of those friends that have gone on before us. As you know
Capt. Cave passed away in August and our gathering affords us the opportunity to
honor Bruce with a special memorial service, something informal but from the heart.
Although Bruce's passing prompts our actions to hold this service, we have not
forgotten the loss of Jan's husband and our host Capt. Don Thompson who passed
away in March, our dear friend Betty Gates Karr who left us in April, and another
good friend Capt. Brad Onion who died in a plane mishap in May.
We offer this memorial service in their memories.
The memorial service is planned for 11:00, with lunch and visiting to follow at noon.
Plans are the same...that is side dishes appreciated, coffee/plateware/utensils all
provided. Your attendance at 11:00 will be greatly appreciated especially by Bruce's
wife Claudette, Jan, and myself. But, if for any reason you feel uncomfortable with
a memorial service, then please join us at noon. One request, if you could please
RSVP, that would be greatly appreciated this year.
E-mail myself carol.n.frank@cox.net or Jan at MEANWHILEBAR@aol.com
As always, your support and participation is genuinely appreciated!!
Thank you and see you there!
Carol
2009's Hangar Party is now scheduled! Mark your calendar for Saturday,
November 14th. Brisket BBQ and WAL memories hosted by Jan (Capt. Don)
Thompson at their "Wally Bird" hangar near Cottonwood, Arizona, on
Saturday, November 14th, at Noon
Memorial Service at 11:00 A.M.
Please bring a sidedish or dessert to share. Plastic/paperware will be
provided. Jan will have the coffee pot on but please bring any other
beverages that you care to drink. Bring your best airline story and/or pictures
and memorabilia to share!!
Here's how to get there:
I 17 North, exit left Cottonwood/Camp Verde
Left on 89A
Left at the first red light (Walgreens is on the corner of where you will turn)
Left on Mingus (which is about four red lights, Maverick gas station will be on your
right)
Stay on Mingus until you see the airport entrance. Drive in to the airport,
Thompson's hangar is the third one on the right, it is marked Hangar D. They will
have the door up.
If you get lost, here is Jan's cell # 928 301-4361 and my cell # 480-510-5076.
We are going to have a blast so I hope that you can join us! Questions?
Give us a call or e-mail me. Many thanks to Don (yes, Don is smiling down!) & Jan for
being our hosts, and do spread the word as all are welcome! Thank you!
Carol
480-345-2677
Frank 'n' Carol Ann (Legge Wichterman) Faulkner
*Carol...DOE 03-24-69/ Ret. 11-01-02/ MSP-PHX-SLC-PHX
*Frank...DOE 07-21-58/ Ret. 04-01-01/ IDA-PIH-HNL-PHX
WA/DL retirees & DL Pioneers Arizona Sun Catchers Chapter
480-345-2677 carol.n.frank@cox.net 2698 W. Bentrup St., Chandler, AZ 85224-1004
Good Deal/Bad Deal (Share a quick good deal or bad deal you have found – no commercials here!)
Hangar Flying (Share a bit of ole hangar flying with the net) :
Exclusive Club:
We all know that the silk worm club is an exclusive group. Not many of us have ever pulled the eject handle.
Equally the V1 Cut club is also an exclusive group. I dare say many of us completed a long career without an
engine failure let alone one at V1. This week in ORD, a MD88 had compressor stalls just after V1 to the tune
of rolling the engine back and damaging the fan blades. Just so happens my son was flying the bird. Like to
say chip off the 'ole block, but I never had one. He took it around the patch and landing without incident.
Exactly what we spend sooo much time training for and fortunately see so little of in real life. When you run in
to Mike, give him an atta-boy. I already did. Mark
++++++++++++++++++
Canaveral Launch Pics of the Ares I-X (Thanks Roger- nice!)
http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/2009/10/launch_of_the_ares_ix.html
Humor/Sobering or Fun (Share some “vulgarity free” humor with the net):
+++++++++++++++++++++++
(Thanks to Al & Ken Melnick for this laugh).
Al Lee Email al@wa4ewv.net
Issue Area -- Humor
Comments -- Good Morning:
My good friend Bill Voigt (767 ER retired) sent me the below humor. I think I have seen it, but thought I would
send it to you for inclusion in your next issue of "High Life".
I appreciate your hard work - Thanks a million!
Al Lee
767 ER retired 2000
==
This is from a retired Airline Captain friend and could easily be a true story.
Miss flying ?
We have a cockpit mock-up in our house.
When I mention to my wife that I miss flying, by being retired, she puts me in the mock-up around bed
time for 8 hours.
She has a chair in a closet, puts on the vacuum cleaner to simulate cockpit air noise, has a dim nite-
lite to simulate cockpit lighting, serves luke-warm chicken with cold vegetables on a tray.
When I get sleepy and attempt to doze off, she knocks twice loudly on the door to simulate the F/As
entering the cockpit. Then after 6 hours she turns on a flood light directly in front of me to simulate the
sun coming up when approaching 20 west. I then get a cup of coffee that has been in the
coffeemaker all night. Finally she lets me out and I have to get in the back seat of her car while she
runs morning errands to simulate the bus ride to the hotel. When we get home I tell her I am ready for
bed and the bedroom door is locked for an hour to simulate the hotel rooms not being ready.
When I promise to never "complain" about being retired, I am allowed to enjoy my "layover" and go to
bed. Oh, and one more thing, she talks to her friends loudly outside the bedroom door to simulate the
hotel maids chattering in the hall in their native language. After two hours of sleep she calls the phone
next to the bed from her cell and says this is crew scheduling, you are junior manned!!!, we are
adding another day to your schedule. You can only hope you have another clean shirt and shorts.....
I can remember the maids trying to suck the dust out of the carpet in my room by standing in the hall
and attempting to suck the dirt from my room through the crack under the door...and they seem to try
for hours.
Gee, I miss flying
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++.
Subject: The Lost Bagpiper (Thanks Dennis)
As a bagpiper, I was asked by a funeral director to play at a
graveside service for a homeless man who had no family or friends. The
funeral was to be held at a cemetery in the remote countryside and
this man would be the first to be laid to rest there.
As I was not familiar with the backwoods area, I became lost and
being a typical man, did not stop for directions. I finally arrived an
hour late. I saw the backhoe and the crew who were eating lunch but
the hearse was nowhere in sight.
I apologized to the workers for my tardiness and stepped to the side
of the open grave where I saw the vault lid already in place.
I assured the workers I would not hold them up for long but this was
the proper thing to do. The workers gathered around, still eating
their lunch. I played out my heart and soul.
As I played the workers began to weep. I played and I played like I'd
never played before, from Going Home and The Lord is My Shepherd to
Flowers of the Forest . I closed the lengthy session with Amazing
Grace and walked to my car...
As I was opening the door and taking off my coat, I overheard one of
the workers saying to another, Sweet Jeezuz, Mary 'n Joseph, I have
never seen nothin' like that before and I've been putting in septic
tanks for twenty years..
_____________________________________________________________
Mark
Mark Sztanyo, PCN Dir
Pilot Communication Net
Contact the Net
Life on earth will soon be past, only what's done for Christ will last!
Serving the Delta community, and pilots (active and retired) and their families, including original Delta, and former:
Northeast, Pan-Am, Western, NWA, Republic, North-Central, Southern Airways, Hughes- Airwest, and all the Delta
Connection carriers.
===================
Delta Pilots Pension Preservation Organization - http://www.dp3.org
Delta Museum & Fly-in information - http://www.deltamuseum.org
Delta Pioneers - http://www.deltapioneersinc.com/
Delta Golden Wings - http://www.deltagoldenwings.com/
Delta Retiree Connection - http://www.dlretiree.info
Delta Retirement Committee - http://www.dalrc.org/
DAL Pilots DDPSA - http://www.ddpsa.com/
Delta Extra Net Portal -http://dlnet.delta.com/
To assure receiving the High Life set spam filters to accept from @pilotcommunication.net.
To Unsubscribe simply click and send with unsubscribe in subject line.
Related docs
