Reno/Sparks IBEW Local 1245 Retirees Club

February 24, 2012 edition~Friday Alert

2012-02-24T11:22:00.001-08:00

Here is your February 24, 2012 edition

New Rule Would Provide Home Health Workers with Minimum Wage
The Alliance’s friends at American Rights at Work remind us that even in 2012, millions of workers are without minimum wage protections. More shocking is that 2.5 million of these unprotected workers are those who provide critical care to seniors and the disabled in their homes. “Without minimum wage and overtime protections, the home care workforce suffers from low-wages, high turnover, stress and exhaustion,” the organization’s blog states (http://bit.ly/z7XXVJ). Despite the industry's rapid growth, fueled in part by the rising number of Baby Boomers reaching retirement age, many workers also lack health insurance, allowances for travel time or paid time off.

In order to improve both these jobs and the quality of care provided, the Obama Administration has proposed a rule that would extend minimum wage and overtime protections to home care workers, long considered exempt from the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The rule would overturn an exception first granted in 1974 that was aimed at allowing friends and family members to care for elderly relatives.

In addition to being exempt from FLSA protections, the majority of home care workers are without the legally-protected right to form unions. This is due to either having no identifiable employer or else being misclassified by their employers as independent contractors. Without the right to unionize, many of the workers are left at the mercy of whatever employment laws may be on the books. Currently, 21 states and the District of Columbia provide some minimum wage and overtime coverage for these workers, but many are left unprotected. The proposed rule is essential to improving the lives of millions of home care workers as well as their patients. “The Obama Administration rule would lead to a more skilled workforce, ensuring a higher quality of care for seniors and the disabled,” said Barbara J. Easterling, President of the Alliance.

Home health care companies are leading the fight against the Obama administration’s proposal, despite data showing that the industry was one of the few nationally to maintain profits during the worst of the recession. USA Today reports that one of the industry's leading companies, Home Instead Senior Care, spent at least $362,000 in 2011 fighting the proposal.

GOP Senators Want Seniors to Move to Private Insurance Faster
Senators Tom Coburn (R-Okla.) and Richard Burr (R-NC) last week unveiled a plan that will accelerate the transition for many seniors to private insurance plans. The proposed legislation will also increase the age of Medicare eligibility for seniors to 67 years old, and increase premiums for retirees in the upper- and middle-class. The transition to the private insurance plans would take place by 2016 instead of waiting a decade, as Rep. Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) had proposed.

“This plan is too vague for seniors to hold any confidence in it," said Ruben Burks, Secretary-Treasurer of the Alliance. “Relying on competition isn’t a guarantee that premiums will remain low enough for seniors to receive the adequate care that they need.” For more on problems with the Coburn-Burr plan, go to http://huff.to/wWlHH6.

Florida Alliance Leads “Mack Attack” to Hold Rep. Connie Mack’s Feet to the Fire
Members of the Florida Alliance, along with their coalition partners, hosted a sign-waving and information-sharing event in front of Rep. Connie Mack’s (R) 14th Congressional District Cape Coral office this morning. Earlier, group representatives had met with Rep. Mack’s Congressional staff. Mack is running to take on Sen. Bill Nelson (D) statewide. “Since 2009, the poverty rate in all three counties encompassed in the 14th CD has risen by 2% on average, yet Rep. Mack continues to vote against safety net programs that could benefit district working class and poor citizens,” said Florida Alliance President Tony Fransetta. The theme of the event was, Rep. Mack has not stood in our corner—it’s time we stood on his corner!

Arizona Alliance Gets out its Message at the GOP Debate
Arizona Alliance retirees joined with hundreds of protestors outside the GOP debate in Mesa on Wednesday. The retirees were there to send a clear message to all four presidential hopefuls: Arizona seniors do not support privatizing Medicare, raising the retirement age, or other damaging changes to Social Security.

Myth Busters on the Alliance Web Site – and in-Person in Illinois
A Social Security myth-busters fact sheet is now available at http://bit.ly/xaTH9c. The two-pager explains what to say when people make claims such as, “Social Security is going broke!” Another myth-busting fact sheet, Myths and Facts about the Affordable Care Act, had been posted previously at http://bit.ly/x1U472. The continuing Alliance effort to stop lies from being spread about seniors’ programs also includes educational forums. In Peoria, Illinois on Wednesday, the Illinois Alliance hosted a workshop to debunk myths and provide useful information about current legislation affecting federal and state retirement security programs.

Affordable Senior Health Insurance Available to Supplement Medicare
Affordable insurance supplemental to Medicare is available through the Retiree Health Plan endorsed by the Alliance for union retirees. The Open Enrollment period is currently in effect through April 30, 2012! During this period, these Medicare-eligible retirees and their spouses are guaranteed acceptance with no waiting periods, regardless of preexisting health conditions. If you have questions or would like to enroll in the program, please call 1-866-298-9117. You can also visit www.araretireehealth.com to get more information.

Regional Meetings Start Next Week in Las Vegas
The Alliance’s 2012 Regional Meetings begin on the following dates: February 29 in Las Vegas; March 5 in Milwaukee; April 30 in Orlando; and May 14 in Philadelphia. Workshops will include: 2012 Elections: Do Not Be Out-Foxed; 2012 Elections: Facts are Stubborn Things!; and Online Organizing: Best Practices. For more information, or to register on-line, please click on http://bit.ly/yiqB8n. Questions? Call Event Coordinator Joni Jones at 202/637-5377, or e-mailjjones@retiredamericans.org.

Download a printable version of this document http://bit.ly/wVqPUl.

Tom Bird message...

2012-02-13T19:29:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone, I hope this finds you and your families well..! I'm writing to remind you of the Nevada IBEW Retiree's Schedules. This years IBEW Yerington Chapter has changed its schedule for 2012 to the second Tuesday of each month. It will be held at Dini's Casino Conference room, lunch starting at 11:00 a.m. Meeting at 11:30.

The IBEW Chapters are filling up the Calendar as I write not to mention all the other Affiliations and meetings..! I will also propose a future events and monthly meetings Calendar at this month's Board Meeting in Las Vegas.

As mentioned at your meetings I will try to make as many of your meetings as possible . As Chairman of the Organizing Committee for NARA 2012, I will be working hard for IBEW North and South. Winnemucca just took their first step last month. Also working with our Consultant Deb Burko to Organize in Southern Nevada . There's a good number of IBEW 1245 Retiree's in Southern Nevada. We hope to meet with them this month and during the Conference week.

Also, would you please copy the latest ( Friday Alert ) of each month before your meetings, and hand them out to the members without Computers it would be helpful, and appreciated..!

IBEW NV, Locals 1245 and 401 Retiree Chapters

Yerington, Dini's, Main, 11:30 (Second Tuesday) LUNCH

Reno/Sparks, 8:30, Denny's, Nugget Ave (Third Wednesday) BREAKFAST

Winnemucca, 11:00, Round Table Pizza (Fourth Wednesday) LUNCH

Carson City, 9:30, Grandma Hattie's, S hwy 395 (Fourth Thursday) BREAKFAST

Local 401 Retiree's, Jacks, Victorian Avenue, 1:00 p.m. (Third Tuesday) LUNCH

In Unity

T BIRD

LOCAL 1245 RETIREES LAUNCH CARSON CITY CHAPTER

2012-02-02T10:30:00.001-08:00

Retired BEW Local 1245 members have launched a new chapter of the union's Retirees Club in Carson City, NV.

The new chapter will meet on the fourth Thursday of the month at 9:00 a.m. at Grandma Hattie's Restaurant, located at 2811 S. Carson St. in Carson City. It is the eighth chapter of the Retirees Club, and the third located in Nevada.

The president of the Carson Chapter is Sierra Pacific Power retiree Jim Pursel.

Local 1245 retirees have played a crucial role in the on-going fight to preserve benefits for active and retired employees of Sierra Pacific Power, now known as NV Energy. They have written public letters and questioned a company executive at a Reno/Sparks chapter meeting, among other actions.

If you live in the Carson City area, now is a great time to reconnect with other former Sierra Pacific Power employees, have some fun, and make an impact at the same time!

Protecting Your Retirement Income ~ RSVP Please!!!

2012-01-12T09:52:00.000-08:00

Please send your RSVP to:

Jeremy Merlino or Kim Rochester

Edward Jones Financial Advisor

Phone: 775-674-3300

Email: jeremy.merlino@edwardjones.com

This was recommended by our President Ron Borst!!!

Commission takes what could be first-ever swing at NV Energy pay scale

2012-01-09T11:49:00.000-08:00

Commission takes what could be first-ever swing at NV Energy pay scale

STEVE MARCUS

Michael Yackira, president and CEO of NV Energy, speaks during a roundtable discussion at the National Clean Energy Summit 2.0 in Las Vegas.

By David McGrath Schwartz

Sun, Jan 8, 2012 (2 a.m.)

State regulators took a bold swipe at the salaries and bonuses of NV Energy executives last month, as they reviewed and ruled on the utility’s case for raising electricity rates.

It was the first time in recent memory that the Nevada Public Utilities Commission had targeted the power company’s pay scale. Repeatedly calling NV Energy raises since 2008 “excessive,” the PUC’s decision lowered by 6.9 percent the ratepayer’s obligation to pay the company’s salaries and performance bonuses. NV Energy salaries had increased since 2008 by an average of 10 percent, according to regulators.

Should the executives and employees want to continue to receive their higher pay, regulators said, they should ask their shareholders — meaning higher pay would result in lower NV Energy profits, not higher electricity bills.

Before the reduction, NV Energy’s top executive, Michael Yackira, was scheduled to receive a $900,000 salary and $900,000 bonus from ratepayers for 2011, according to a compensation analysis NV Energy submitted to the PUC. Yackira’s total cash compensation paid by rate payers has risen 29 percent, from $1.35 million in 2008, according to the company’s study.

Michael Yackira

(VEGAS INC, a sister publication of the Las Vegas Sun, estimated Yackira’s total compensation was $5.3 million in 2010, including stock options and long-term incentives paid by shareholders.)

The company also listed in its analysis the salaries and bonuses of 28 other NV Energy executives. The company planned to have customers pay $10 million a year in salaries and bonuses to the executives.

Tony Sanchez, SR VP of Public Policy for NV Energy

Since 2009, top executive salaries have increased 12 percent for the 21 employees who were with the utility then. That includes a total compensation package of $760,000 for Dilek Samil, the company CFO; $519,000 for Tony Sanchez, its top lobbyist; and $243,000 for Judy Stokey, another company lobbyist, according to the records. The top spokesman for NV Energy, Rob Stillwell, was slated to make $297,000 in salary and bonuses.

Those figures do not include health benefits and pension costs, which are also borne by ratepayers. In addition, in 2011, employees received investor-funded incentives, like stock options, that ranged from $81,000 up to $665,000, according to the study.

In an interview, Stillwell said salaries and bonuses should be “out of bounds” and not the subject of a news story. He limited his comments on the topic, saying that the company needed more time to review the transcript of the monthlong rate hearing in order to respond to questions.

The company, as well as other parties to the rate case, have until this week to appeal the PUC’s ruling.

NV Energy, in filings, argued that the salaries are necessary to retain qualified employees and are competitive with other utility companies. Additionally, with fewer workers, those who remain are asked to take on additional responsibilities.

Regulators disagreed. The decision, written by PUC Commissioner Rebecca Wagner, said the comparisons NV Energy used to justify its salaries “contain serious flaws and significant inconsistencies.”

“Salary and wage increases experienced by (NV Energy) executives, officers and employees since the last general rate case are excessive in relation to both the national and state economies,” Wagner said.

”Against any metric, (NV Energy’s) per-capita pay increases have well outpaced the Nevada economy. ... Per-capita payroll expenses have increased by 10.32 percent since 2008,” Wagner continued, adding that the “wide gap” between the company’s raises and “the economic realities over the past three years are excessive.”

Utilities file general rate cases about every three years with the judicial-like hearings presided over by three commissioners appointed by the governor.

The proceedings are always closely watched by industry insiders and big customers, like casinos. But with Nevada’s housing market in the tank and the state stubbornly holding its highest-in-the-nation unemployment rate, this case has drawn a higher-than-usual level of scrutiny from public watchdogs and ratepayers upset by their electric bills.

Some business recruiters have said the state has the second-highest energy rates in the West, trailing only California, and that has hurt efforts to attract new businesses.

The ruling, released in late December, raised the base general electricity rate for Southern Nevada residential customers by almost 8 percent, less than expected, but it’s accompanied by a new $2-a-month service charge, according to an analysis released by NV Energy.

The increase in consumers’ bills will largely be offset by falling natural gas prices. Customers’ bills will rise an average of $4.84 a month, a 3.5 percent net increase compared to October’s bills based on average energy use, the company said.

The PUC’s decision was the first by Gov. Brian Sandoval’s appointees to the panel. Sandoval worked as an attorney in the 1990s for a shareholder group funded by the influential monopoly. Additionally, two of Sandoval’s top political advisers are also contract lobbyists for NV Energy.

Because of those ties, some had feared regulators under a Sandoval administration would be beholden to the industry.

But consumer advocates have generally praised the ruling.

“I absolutely think this was a good decision,” said Timothy Hay, a former consumer advocate for Nevada. He called the review of salaries and bonuses “the most comprehensive analysis I’ve seen a commission do in many years in Nevada. ... I believe the disallowances the commission adopted are very justified.”

Hay hesitated to give Sandoval credit, saying prior commissions “have been so utility friendly ... it would be hard to skew it more to the company without being terribly overt.”

Dan Jacobsen, technical staff manager for the state’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, said regulators’ decision on compensation was the first time in memory that the PUC went after utility salaries.

“To give employees and officers that much of a raise at a time when most Nevadans are struggling, it felt like the company was ignoring everything that is going on in Nevada,” he said.

The company has said little about the decision, but the stock market’s response has been positive.

When the decision was released in late December, the company’s share price climbed from $15.69 on Dec. 20 to $16.42 on Dec. 29. Since then, it has come down a little, ending trading on Friday at $15.75 a share.

Post from Tom Dalzell...

2012-01-06T19:48:00.000-08:00

Most recent information on Tom...

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/tomdalzell/journal

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012 9:29 AM, PST

Staying Connected

To all-

I’ve got a lot of strength-building and recovery in front of me, but my progress each day has been encouraging.

I do have one request, and that is that you send me your e-mail address. There are many comments on the Guestbook that I would like to answer, but I don’t have the e-mail addresses for many of you.

Please, then send me a quick note to tmd9@ibew1245.com so that I can write you. So many voices from my past joined the chorus of support on CaringBridge – boyhood friends, college friends, friends from my days with the United Farm Workers, friends from the slang universe. I don’t want you to think that my silence should be seen as a lack of caring. It’s a lack of address.

With luck, this will be the final update. I plan to stay home from work in January to build up my strength. I’ve got time on my hands.

I am grateful and oh so alive.

Tom

Yerington monthly meeting update!!

2011-12-30T17:55:00.000-08:00

This is just a heads up on our new schedule for 2012 for the Yerington Chapter. January will still be at the Casino West on the fourth Tuesday 1-24-12 at 11:30. We could not nail down a spot at our new location in January.

February through December of 2102 will be moving to Dini's Casino held on the second Tuesday of each month from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. We will start lunch at 11:00 and the Meeting at 11:30 breakfast is not served at this time.

Asbestos in Nevada

2011-12-29T17:06:00.000-08:00

An article you might find interesting...

http://www.asbestos.com/states/nevada/

Electricians risk exposure to asbestos on a daily basis. Asbestos used to be found in both electrical cloth and electrical panel partitions. Also, during renovations and new projects, electricians are often involved in the early stages of construction, which involve many different possibilities of exposure to the deadly mineral.

With more than 3,000 pages of content, the site features information on asbestos, mesothelioma, and other cancers that are caused by asbestos exposure (lung cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, etc.). Unlike other sites, Asbestos.com has achieved HON code approval (Health On the Net). The site has employed a full staff of writers dedicated to research and writing about asbestos exposure and the diseases that result from exposure to the toxic mineral.

Asbestos in Nevada

44th

ranking in US for asbestos related deaths

The desert state of Nevada has a longstanding history of mining and tourism. Although asbestosdoes not occur naturally in Nevada, several industries exposed workers to the toxic mineral at the jobsite, increasing their chance of developing an asbestos-related disease like mesothelioma cancer. Many of the state's dominant industrial companies produce electric machinery, often using asbestos containing materials to insulate the equipment. Asbestos is also widely used in construction, a leading Nevada industry that accounted for more than 11.6 percent of the state's economy as of 1998.

The mining and refining of natural resources is another leading industry with ties to asbestos exposure. Over the past few decades, several Nevada refineries received shipments of asbestos-contaminated vermiculite ore from a mine in Libby, Montana. It is likely that any workers who handled, processed or shipped vermiculite from Libby were exposed to airborne asbestos fibers.

IBEW1245 ~ BUSINESS MANAGER Tom Dalzell Illness

2011-12-12T19:36:00.000-08:00

We were informed that our Business Manager, Tom Dalzell, had to be hospitalized for severe pneumonia-like symptoms, however, at this time It appears be respiratory issues caused by an infection.

Given this news, I am sure many of you will be greatly concerned about his condition and we are told he is no condition to accept calls or emails. The family has set up a Caring Bridge Website (see below) for all to visit, check up on his condition and well wishes. Share this link as you see fit with the members at your Headquarters.

Please keep Tom in your thoughts. We all wish him a speedy recovery, I am sure.

A Nonprofit Connecting Family and Friends When Health Matters Most

Tom's site
A CaringBridge website was created to share health news and receive support. Show your support. Visit and keep up to date. Leave a message in the guestbook.
Visit online
Find Tom's site at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/tomdalzell.

Visit on mobile
Visit Tom's site using the CaringBridge iPhone app, Android app, or m.caringbridge.org. You can post updates, view guestbook entries and manage photos all from your phone.
CaringBridge provides personal websites that connect people experiencing a significant health challenge to family and friends, making each health journey easier.
Sincerely,
Sandie Anderson
You are receiving this e-mail because your friend, Sandie Anderson, submitted your e-mail address.
CaringBridge® : 1715 Yankee Doodle Road, Suite 301 : Eagan, MN 55121 : www.CaringBridge.org

In Unity

Janval "JV" Macor
Business Representative
IBEW Local 1245
707.761.1948 Cellular (Preferred)
707.526.1315 Santa Rosa Office

Tom is currently in the Critical Care unit of Alta Bates Summit Medical Center, fighting septic shock from a strep infection that seems to be in his left arm. He has been here since Thursday afternoon 12/8.

We are asking that you NOT VISIT, until Tom is out of CCU. If you want to stop by to the waiting room, that's fine, but we want to keep his room quiet.

Thank you for your many blessings and prayers, which are a comfort to Tom, Cathy, Rosalie, Charlotte, Jake, and Julia.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2011 3:29 PM, PST
Talking
Yesterday was a day of wait and see. Today has been a day of progress. Off the respirator, off the bipap mask, central line out, off the blood pressure medication. Tom can talk a little (very sore mouth and throat from intubation) and I even saw a half smile. Probably looking at a couple more days in the CCU.

The answer to where Cecile the respiratory tech is from: The Seychelles. Why did I think of it? Because Jake has been there four times.

Thanks for everything. We have lots of food here - we are feeding other families in the waiting room!
Sign My Guestbook   Read Tributes
MONDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2011 9:41 AM, PST
Off the respirator!
We had settled in for a couple more days of breathing machine and feeding tube, but he passed his breathing assessment this morning with flying colors, so at 9 am, his tubes were removed. Real progress! They gave him a nebulizer treatment since he was wheezing, and he's on a Bipap machine (oxygen through a mask) for a couple of hours at least, but he will b able to talk to us soon and hopefully be mask-free at some point today.

We know he's sort of horrified that we set up this website to update people, but he will just need to get over it. Thanks for all the wonderful postings and good thoughts.

His respiratory therapist, Cecile Bastien, has an accent that sounded British to me, but told me French is her first language and she grew up in a place that was a former British colony, although originally the French were there. Not in Europe, not in the Caribbean, not Australia or New Zealand.

Something to ponder - I got it pretty quickly and will explain in our next post, hoping things keep going well so we can be a little bit lighthearted.

Cathy

Sign My Guestbook   Read Tributes
MONDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2011 6:56 AM, PST
And in Cambodia
I wrote to Sngin Sokoeun, the program director of Cambodia Tomorrow, to let him know that Tom was ill. In Cambodia, you go right to the pagoda and say a prayer. And he did.

Thank you for all your prayers, chants, fingers crossed, faith in science and spirit. I'm on my way back to the hospital and will update soon. No news means he's resting.

Cathy

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2011 3:54 PM, PST
Limiting Visitors
Hi everyone-

We're trying to let Tom rest and recuperate. I know everyone is anxious to give him their support in person, but we don't want to tire him out. We hope he will be out of CCU in a few days and able to have visits.

Please call Cathy at             323-376-6444      before you come to the hospital, or if you come, spend time with family in the waiting room instead.

Thanks for understanding. Call Debbie Mazzanti for other ways you can help us.             (415) 517-0317

Keep Tom in your thoughts,
Cathy
Sign My Guestbook   Read Tributes
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2011 2:11 PM, PST
Sunday morning

Our night doctor, Dr. Rubai, came in at 6:30 this morning to report that "things are looking up." Dr. Corona, the kidney doctor told us the same thing about 9:30 this morning and our day intensivist, Dr. Curry, tells s that everything is going in the right direction.

So, with cautious optimism, we settle in for whatever the day will hold. Tom has been writing more and asking if the arm wound was the cause of all this, and listening carefully when the dctors come in.

Keep the faith. Si se Puede.

Cathy
Sign My Guestbook   Read Tributes
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2011 12:20 AM, PST
In the balance
Thank you all for your good wishes for Tom. In keeping everyone informed, I find myself veering from very positive entries to more alarming ones.

While there was positive news today, Tom is in the Critical Care Unit for a reason - he is still in critical condition. There's no one clearly defined path to recovery and there are risks. We don't know what the next few days will bring. We are cheering him on, keeping his spirits up and our own, talking to him, touching him. We are there and not knowing what the next moment will bring.

We don't know quite what help we need, but for those nearby, offering just to stand by if needed for a day or half a day would be great. It might be driving, running for food, calling people, sitting quietly and listening, or something at the house. Debbie Mazzanti is our ombudsman for this -             (415) 517-0317      or djmg@ibew1245.com

Charlotte is having trouble dealing with what is happening to her dad. If you have a recommendation of a counselor or therapist I could talk to briefly for advice, or you are an adult who is close to Charlotte and you are willing to show up at the house, please let Debbie know. The rest of us also have our moments of doubt and fear. We are trying to comfort one another, but showing up at Alta Bates to lend an ear may be a help.

Those who have organized food, thanks.

We are worried, we are hopeful. We love Tom and want him back home.

Cathy
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2011 8:33 PM, PST
Saturday night all right all right
Tom is now resting. He looks better, was able to hold a pencil and write notes to us. His sister Jeanne has arrived from Maine and she and Julia will be spooning on the cot tonight.

We have an amazing support system in all of you and hope to continue the positive updates.

Hoping to see the doctor on this shift before heading home to Rosalie and Chsrlotte and sleep.
Sent from CaringBridge iPhone app
Sign My Guestbook   Read Tributes
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2011 4:41 PM, PST
No surgery
Dr. Kaplan, the wound surgeon, came in about an hour ago, said the arm looked much better and that surgery will not be necessary. So that's one hurdle jumped. Tom has found a new way to communicate with the iPad. Putting his finger on a black screen, he traces letters. NO TUBE and SEDATE were his last two. He is now resting comfortably (and if ever that was a misnomer, it is now) under light sedation while the respirator and antibiotics do their work.

His sister Jeanne arrives in a couple of hours an I'll go home to Rosalie and Charlotte for the night.

Hanging in,
Cathy
Sign My Guestbook   Read Tributes
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2011 2:17 PM, PST
Thank you's
Letting you know that I'm reading the guestbook. Thanks to all who have written. We read some to Tom when he's up for it. Thanks to all the friends and family who have texted, emailed, called. Thanks to the Albany-Berkeley Strikers, Berkeley High Frosh Soccer Team and the El Cerrito Futbol Club Piranhas. Thanks to IBEW 1245, The Berkeley School, our neighbors at 1155, Debbie Mazzanti, Joan Zoloth, Cindy Johnson, Sandie Anderson, Jane and Geoffrey, Rebecca Abers, Clare Woakes, Jolie Coursin and many more. It takes a village.

Cathy
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2011 1:35 PM, PST
Stable at a precarious point
We've ping ponged between cautious optimism and "not out of the woods" discussions with doctors. Tom is awake, aware and interested in hearing about what's going on with his health. He still has a respirator and feeding tube in his throat so can't talk, but is pointing, spelling words with his finger. He asked about the time. He asked about his arm. He wants the ventilator out of his mouth.

So, here's the update.

Julia and I spent the night, sleeping head-toe on the little cot. It was surprisingly comfortable and we were exhausted. Three refreshing hours later, we were kicked out so the team could do a chest xray. Prior to sleep, our nurse Kerri was terrific. I have to take a moment to remark about the wonderful care the nurses give, respectful, cheerful, informative. Nurse Jackie gave me a lesson in what all the numbers on the monitor mean.

Dr. Butler answered Tom in detail about his status at the end of the night shift.

Concerns: kidneys. This is probably the doctors' biggest worry. The kidneys are not functioning properly. We faced this yesterday and they inserted the catheter for possible dialysis. This morning Dr. Corona, the kidney specialist recommended immediate continuous dialysis, but was convinced by Dr. Curry, our new intensivist ( our main doctor for this shift and the next few day shifts) that watching and waiting was best.

Blood pressure is their second concern, as it has been low throughout and boosted by drugs. Constantly monitored.

The arm - we saw Dr. Perlatta, the infectious disease specialist, who confirmed that the bacteria is strep A. It is NOT in the blood stream - good news there. No surgery needed at the moment.

Theories from Dr. Perlatta on how Tom got sick -
1. his flu led to sinusitis and that bacteria migrated into his arm, specifically the bursa sac -
2. his flu became strep pneumonia. Xrays show some signs of possible infection in the left lung or a condition where the lung doesn't fully inflate.

Thanks to Laurie Zoloth, Jake and Julia's aunt, who is a medical ethicist and was head nurse at Alta Bates, Jake connected with Dr. Jeff Burack here at the hospital. He has confirmed that we are getting appropriate and aggressive treatment. Julia and I met him when he stopped in this morning. He confirmed that Tom has stabilized, which is good news, but that he has stabilized in a precarious position. We have a ways to go and I know everyone is out there throwing support his way.

Thanks everyone -
Cathy
Sign My Guestbook   Read Tributes
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2011 10:16 PM, PST
Progress
Its 10:15 Friday night. Jake and I are here with Tom in the CCU and his vitals keep improving. They have taken him off of one drug, since his pH is now balanced. Heart rate and BP looking better. He's still got all sorts of tubes and is now being given something to help him be more comfortable with that situation (nobody LIKES a catheter) but no emergencies and all bloodworm is looking good.

Thanks everyone for the posts.

Cathy
Sign My Guestbook   Read Tributes
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2011 7:54 PM, PST
Better News!

Labs and xrays came back and It is NOT necrotizing fasciitis, aka flesh-eating bacteria. This is very good news. The bacteria is strep and it's located in his left arm, possibly in the bursa sac near the elbow. This is affecting all his systems as his body struggles to fight the infection. He's looking much better than two hours ago. No surgery is now scheduled, they are not going to do dialysis at the moment, he's making urine (this is the best sign, Dr. Meeley told us, because it means the kidneys are working again.)

He is on a respirator which has eased the stress of his gasping for breath, and he has a feeding tube.

Thanks for all your offers of help and support and sending good thoughts our way. No visitors please.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2011 3:07 PM, PST
Friday afternoon
Tom is sick. Very sick. He is now on a breathing tube, sedated and the doctors think they have pinpointed the infection in his left arm. It's staph or strep. They will do a complete Cat Scan this afternoon and operate to drain and treat tonight or tomorrow

No visitors please. This is bacterial and we all carry bugs. Julia arrives late at night tonight and Tom's sister Jeanne arrives tomorrow.

We will post as we can. Keep Tom in your thoughts and if you're near, check in with Clare Woakes for Charlotte help            510-390-4378       or Debbie Mazzanti for household, food or IBEW .             415-517-0317      .
Sign My Guestbook   Read Tributes
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2011 2:44 PM, PST
Update from Debbie Mazzanti
I will take care of house, girls, pets all week.
Sign My Guestbook   Read Tributes
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2011 2:35 PM, PST
Mid morning Friday
Hi all

I wish I had great news. He is sicker today than yesterday. He confused and short of breath. Doctor is not sure it's pneumonia and they are trying to determine where the infection is. Kidney specialist coming and he will have a cat scan of his abdomen. Lungs look pretty good. Heart rate is now normal. He will probably be in a week now.

For local friends, I need help organizing Charlotte and Rosalie's lives and someone to be here when I can be with them.

The weekend is pretty easy. Charlotte has a tournament Saturday and Sunday and I'll look to Clare and Willie to help with that. She will need clothes and the back door is unlocked.

Rosalie has two games tomorrow, both at Berkeley High.

I'm hoping Debbie will take the dogs so I don't have to worry about them and that Gail or Rebecca can feed cats.

Tom's work is covered. my work is covered. With doctors coming in all the time, it's nice to have someone else here when possible.

Tomorrow I'll look for help mobilizing TBS and BHS families for next week. One day at a time.

Thanks for all the support and words of comfort.

With love and thanks to all,
Cathy

Sent from my iPad. All thumbs.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2011 2:08 PM, PST
Update Friday morning
Good morning family and friends. Thanks for all help and concern and apologies for the group email but I've got an iPad and phone and limited charging and can't talk on the phone in CCU.

Rounds begin about 8 and we will know more then. Tom is resting but not sleeping, anxious, elevated heart rate and on heavy antibiotics and they have tried two different medications to lower his heart rate. Temperature is normal, down from a high of 104.7.

For those who,like statistics, heart rate is about 150, Blood pressure 119/39. He's receiving oxygen through two nasal tubes, on Iv through a central line in his neck and only allowed to have ice. Keeping him off a breathing machine is the current goal of the nursing and med staff.

He is coherent but his tongue is still thick and he's not talking much. Jake and Sandile, he seems slightly better than when you saw him last night and is no longer trying to move around, get up, sit up. So, calmer. Naturally scared.

Rosalie is at home with our friend Cindy and Charlotte is with our friend Jolie and daughters. I will make arrangements for them later when I know what's what. They are both going to school today.
Love you all,

Cathy
Sign My Guestbook   Read Tributes
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2011 2:04 PM, PST
Beginning of the emergency
I'm here too. He seemed to be over the flu, but still tired, then threw up several times last night. He took the day off and rested. Spoke to his doctor who advised fluids but didn't go in to see him.
When I got home at 4:30 clearly something was wrong. He seemed disoriented, face swollen tongue swollen just out of it. Called 911. Rosalie was there. Charlotte was at friends and still is.

Six paramedics were there in under 10 minutes. Started him on fluids in the ambulance. Fever spiked at 104.7. They told me either stroke or sepsis.any tests later, it is sever pneumonia. Heart rate is high, blood pressure low, they are worried about blood infection

He's now getting a central line to get fluids and antibiotics in faster. He was very disoriented and now seems mor scared and uncomfortable. Probably will
Be here 4 days if all goes well. Everyone has been terrific and I now know how to be better prepared for emergencies.

I know he will be in your thoughts. Update in the am.

Love

C
Sign My Guestbook   Read Tributes
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2011 1:51 PM, PST
From Clare
Hi All,
Cathy just called and asked me to help schedule the kids and make sure they are fed, cared for and have a place to sleep while she is in the hospital with Tom. I know some of you but not others.

Between Jolie, Thomas, Willie and us we will make sure Charlotte is taken care of.

Debbie, can you deal with the dogs? Maybe this has been resolved. If so are you taking the dogs with you or is someone staying at the house with them?

Gail and/or Rebecca can you feed the cats?

I am not as clear on what Rosalie will need. I don't have her cell number to check in with her. If you are a BHS friend or parent can you contact me asap.

Charlotte is staying at our house tonight but I am wondering if it would be better for her and Rosalie to be at their own house in their own beds with a grown up sleeping in the guest room?

If you know others who would be available to help out and want to be on this email chain send me their emails. Also can people let me know how they can help and their phone numbers.

If you are out of town family or friends and want to be taken off this email chain please let me know.

It takes a village...
-Clare
«☆•*¨*•.¸☆¸.•*¨*•☆»

IBEW1245 Retiree Club Holiday Party in Yerington!!

2011-12-07T20:35:00.001-08:00

IBEW1245 Retiree Club Holiday Party at the

El Superior Restaurant

121 West Bridge Street

Yerington, NV 89447

(775) 463-2593

Need directions from your house?

Just Click HERE and fill in youraddress.

It’s happening

Saturday December 17th

6:00 P.M.

Only 30 seats available!!

Please RSVP:

Judy Grush 775/463/3068

Karan Kostenbader 775/463/9065

Update on Rod Thomas' grandson Cooper...

2011-12-07T16:34:00.001-08:00

So many people have asked me about a update on Cooper, I know it has been a while. I think I will just forward a Caring Bridge post That my daughter posted, would you post this if you have time. Thanks and Happy Holidays to all.

Rod

This Was written by Cooper's Mom

On November 12, Cooper was swept off to his trip of a lifetime compliments of the Make A Wish Foundation...Disneyworld and everything Orlando could possibly offer. We are grateful that he took us with him. We were picked up by a limo at 5:45 in the morning and treated like VIP's on Southwest Airlines.

We were full of anticipation about where we were going to be staying, we had heard so much about the Give Kids the World Village. Well, what we had heard did not over sell this amazing place. Aside from the adorable villas we stayed in, the property was amazing. Everything was for a child's eye, think life size Candyland and all of the magic that goes along with it. Everyday at 10:30am, someone would knock on your door and literally fill the kids arms with gifts. Food could be eaten at the restaurant or delivered to your villa, ice cream was served from 7:30 to 10pm, there was an amazing pool, theater, miniature golf course and the village celebrated Halloween on Tuesdays and Christmas on Thursdays. The village is made for Wish Kids only. It was an unbelievable privilege to experience such a blessing. Everywhere you turn in the village there are volunteers, 1500 per week, who come and serve the children and their families who are battling life threatening diseases.

As for all of the theme parks, they were great. Because Cooper was a VIP he was given a Guest Passport that swept us to the front of whatever line we were in. That was amazing. This pass made it possible for us to get to everything we wanted and every character we wanted in the five parks we were able to visit. It turns out, Cooper is an adrenaline junky, He LOVES roller coasters.

Today Cooper had a spinal tap. Joe (daddy) took him at 10:30 and they didn't get to leave the hospital until 3pm. He has to start his Steroids tonight and I am an emotional mess about it. This is the hardest part of maintenance. The steroids are terrible, they make him feel terrible, he cannot sleep, he get wacky and exhausted. The time in between the months just flies by but, these five days a month are really, really brutal. Tonight I actually cried when I picked up the prescription for the steroids at the pharmcy. I swear, those pharmacy techs probally think I am crazy. This is just, really the hardest part. Living your lives like normal for three weeks and then the brutal reminder of reality for one. Two more years, Two More Years, TWO MORE YEARS...

I shouldn't be complaining. If we learned anything at Give Kids the World, it is that we have it incredibly easy. You could look around a room and see which kids had leukemia. Most of the parents at that village would probaly trade anything for their child to have Leukemia instead of what their children were battling.

Thanks to everyone for your prayers, support, and friendship over this past year, as bad as it has been, with everyone's support we are a third of the way through this battle. Coop sends his love to ALL!!!! Happy Holidays

HAPPY 11/11/11 @11:11am to YOU!!

2011-11-11T13:07:00.001-08:00

Have you thanked a VETERAN TODAY!!!

ALSO, Check out the time AND date on the iPhone AND the computer in the lower right corner!!!

11/11/2011 November 11, 2011 at 11:11am

2011-11-04T12:02:00.001-07:00

Dear Activist, here is your November 4, 2011 edition

Washington Post Misleads Seniors on Social Security
The Washington Post published a Halloween-Eve front page "Prediction of Doom" feature piece riddled with misleading statements and inaccuracies about Social Security and its financial footing [http://wapo.st/tuG2Jy]. The 12-member panel is less than a month away from its deadline for finding at least $1.2 trillion in deficit reduction, but it’s said to be looking for closer to $4 trillion. "The timing was particularly bad, because we’re in the homestretch of the Super Committee negotiations," said Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance. In a letter to the editor, Mr. Coyle wrote, "Your October 30 feature 'The debt fallout: How Social Security went 'cash negative' earlier than expected' not only contained misleading information about Social Security, but falsely connects the program to the federal budget deficit...(There) is enough money to fully pay benefits through 2036, and if we were to require millionaires to pay the same proportion of Social Security taxes as middle class workers, the Trust Fund would be sound well toward the end of this century." The group Media Matters posted a thorough debunking of the Washington Post story athttp://bit.ly/uPVLDu.

Super Committee Taking Hard Look at Social Security, Medicare Cuts
Politico reports that the Super Committee, charged with drastically reducing the nation’s budget deficit, is taking a serious look at Social Security and Medicare. On Tuesday, former Sen. Alan Simpson (R-Wyo.) and former White House Chief of Staff Erskine Bowles, as well as founding Director of the Congressional Budget Office Alice Rivlin and former Senate Budget Chairman Pete Domenici (R-N.M.) testified at a public hearing before the Committee about their two sweeping bipartisan budget plans. The Simpson-Bowles and Rivlin-Domenici frameworks contain major Social Security and Medicare cuts in addition to tax code overhauls.

Mr. Bowles, the co-chairman of President Obama's fiscal commission, offered a range of possible Medicare cuts, from policies like provider cuts to highly charged proposals such as a public insurance option. "I don’t know why in the world you wouldn’t have Medicare negotiate" prescription drug prices, Bowles said, while also calling for aggressive tort reform. In addition, he said he would support raising the Medicare eligibility age, which the fiscal commission did not recommend. Bowles proposes saving $200 billion by using a less generous formula – the Chained CPI (Consumer Price Index) - to calculate cost-of-living adjustments in Social Security. To see how such a plan would hurt seniors, go tohttp://bit.ly/skmv0w.

Dr. Rivlin and former Sen. Domenici presented the Committee with a new model for Medicare "premium support." Their proposal would give seniors a choice to either take their Medicare benefits in the form of a voucher for private insurance or remain in the existing program. However, Congressional Democrats strongly resisted earlier proposals to convert Medicare entirely into a premium-support system. Democratic Super Committee members also raised questions about Rivlin and Domenici’s new plan.

"All four witnesses have a track record of being willing to cut senior programs severely," said Ruben Burks, Secretary-Treasurer of the Alliance.

The Alliance’s Halloween: Spotlighting Politicians’ Tricks & Treats
Since Arizona Senator Jon Kyl (R-AZ) is a member of the Super Committee, Arizona Alliance members dressed up for Halloween to protest possible cuts in Social Security and Medicare. To see the photos, go to http://bit.ly/vq1Id1.

Mr. Coyle joined Rep. Shelley Berkley (D-NV) and two Nevada seniors on a conference call with reporters on Wednesday to highlight the anti-senior voting record of U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) on Social Security and Medicare. Coyle said, "Sen. Heller says that he is a friend of seniors, but his voting record says otherwise. Dean Heller voted against a one-time $250 payment to help seniors. $250 may be just dinner and drinks for Dean Heller's Wall Street donors, but to seniors in Nevada and across the country, it would have made a real difference.

Both the Iowa and South Carolina Alliance chapters will have held educational forums for seniors on national and state issues by the end of this week. The Iowa Alliance joined the group "Know Your Care" on Wednesday in Des Moines for a public forum on strengthening Social Security and Medicare. South Carolina Alliance members will be gathering in Myrtle Beach tomorrow for a forum that will encompass Social Security, Medicare, debt reduction, the Super Committee recommendations, Medicaid, financial security for seniors in a volatile market, identity theft, and senior scams. Richard Fiesta, Director of the Department of Government and Political Affairs for the Alliance, spoke at the Vermont Alliance convention last Saturday.

Retirees Support “Occupy Cleveland”
A video shows Ohio Alliance members, led by Wynne Antonio and John Gallo, visiting with "Occupy Cleveland" protesters, sharing their lessons from lifelong activism and offering their support and encouragement. To view it, go tohttp://bit.ly/tAYZ3F. Alliance President Barbara J. Easterling - an Ohio native - said of the video, "What a great show of inter-generational activism this event was. Retirees know firsthand how Wall Street greed and gambling has devastated retirement savings for millions of Americans. We can never let Wall Street get their hands on a privatized Social Security system."

Obama to Speed up Production of Life-Saving Drugs
On Monday, President Obama signed an Executive Order that will help prevent shortages that lead to prescription drug price gouging and direct the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate illegal price gouging. Drug shortages drive vendors to charge outrageous prices for drugs - one report found that price-gouging vendors mark up prices on drugs in short supply by 650 percent on average. The Executive Order directs the FDA to expand reporting about situations that might lead to drug shortages, and also to work with the Department of Justice to investigate illegal price gouging.

Editor’s Note: Due to Veterans Day, the next Friday Alert will be published on Thursday, November 10, 2011.

Download a printable version of this document at http://bit.ly/sVg481.

Mike Silva, the PG&E retiree, died Oct. 30.

2011-11-03T16:35:00.000-07:00

MIKE SILVA: STEADFAST IN THE CAUSE

OF GIVING LOCAL 1245 RETIREES A VOICE

Mike Silva speaks at a summit of retiree club leaders in 2006 to discuss retiree medical benefits.

Mike Silva, the PG&E retiree who held the Local 1245 Retirees Club together almost single-handedly for many years, died Oct. 30.

Silva, who retired around 1994, stepped up to take leadership of the East Bay Chapter of the Retirees Club when some of the union’s aging founders were still among its members, including Don Hardie and Tom Riley. At the time there was only one other chapter—in San Jose—and the club’s long-term viability at times seemed in doubt.

But Silva wouldn’t let the idea die. He believed that retirees had an important role to play in the life of the union, and he clearly felt that retirees had a responsibility to stand up for their rights in public life.

There were times when the chapter could barely muster a quorum, but Brother Silva soldiered ahead, serving not only as president of the East Bay Chapter but recorder as well. He e-mailed out the minutes of the meeting like clockwork every month, making sure Local 1245 remained aware that retirees were engaged in the life of the union.

Mike Silva began playing a leadership role in the Retirees Club in the 1990s...and he never gave up.

When retirees in other areas began to stir at the beginning of the new century, Silva brought his experience and passion to the task of helping other chapters get started.

“I remember meeting Mike years ago when he was serving as the president of the East Bay Chapter, which at that time was meeting at union headquarters when it was still located in Walnut Creek,” said Ken Rawles.

When the union moved its headquarters to Vacaville, the East Bay Chapter of the Retirees Club relocated to Dublin. But Silva sensed an opportunity for the club to grow.

“Mike believed it was important for the club to have a chapter in Vacaville because it was the union’s headquarters and because we needed to give retirees in the Vacaville and Sacramento area a chance to get involved,” said Rawles. “He thought it should become the main chapter.”

Even as he continued to lead the East Bay Chapter, Silva joined Rawles in going to Vacaville to encourage the new chapter during its infancy. Silva also joined Rawles for meetings in Santa Rose to start a North Bay Chapter, and both men also drove to Merced at the inaugural meeting of the chapter there, offering their experience and support.

When retirees from all the chapters held special meetings at union headquarters in response to an alarming rise in health care premiums, Silva was welcomed as something of an elder statesman. When he spoke, people listened.

Mike Silva, right, and Ken Rawles trade information during a retiree meeting in Vacaville. Silva and Rawles helped launch the Vacaville chapter, and also helped start chapters in Santa Rosa and Merced.

In one of many articles he wrote for the Utility Reporter, Silva had this to say on the role of the union in the life of retirees:

“The union is the only place you can have a say on how to improve the quality of life for PG&E retirees. The retiree clubs are the only voice you have to the negotiating committees. So if you want your voice heard, if you'd like to help solve retirees problems, attend our established meetings or grab a few of the retirees that you know in your area or from PSEA functions and establish your own meeting and local chapter.”

“Mike was always there when the retirees’ voices needed to be heard,” said Rawles.

Larry Darby, a former Local 1245 Advisory Council member and now a Retiree Club member, called Silva “one great person, a heck of a very good friend and a great chairperson for the East Bay Retirees Club.”

Local 1245 salutes our brother, Mike Silva, for his steadfastness in the cause of giving retirees a voice.

Please call the Joachim Parish in Hayward at (510) 783-2766 to confirm, but to the best of our knowledge the following will be the schedule of services for Mike:

Viewing: Monday, Nov. 7, 4 PM
Funeral: Tuesday, Nov. 8, at noon.

The location will be Joachim Parish, 21250 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward, CA.

IBEW1245 Retiree Club Holiday Party

2011-11-02T21:56:00.001-07:00

IBEW1245 Retiree Club Holiday Party at the

SANTA FE HOTEL

FAMILY STYLE BASQUE DINNERS

Located Downtown behind Harrah's

At 235 Lake Street, Reno, NV 89501

775-323-1891

Need directions from your house? Click HERE and fill in your address.

Saturday, December 3rd

6 pm No Host Cocktails

7 pm Dinner

Dinner:

Soup

Salad

Basque Beans

Bread

French Fries

Steak

Chicken

Beef Tongue

Lamb Stew

1 glass wine per person......$10 extra per carafe to serve 4 glasses

Vanilla ice cream or Jack Cheese for dessert

$25 per person including tip, tax, dinner, wine

We pay the night of our dinner.....local checks accepted...You only pay for who is served.

We need your RSVP to Kathie Preston at kp89511@gmail.com or Mickie at mbaryol@gmail.com by November 21st. We can add people for a week, but need to give some sort of a count by November 21st. Kathie reserved for 60-80, so we need to let her know closer to date as to how many.

We also need donated Raffle Prizes!!

Ron Borst has promised the FIRST ONE!!

Bill Bour will donate engraved sterling silver dollar key chain, along with a sterling silver engraved money clip

Please send item description & donor information to Mickie or Kathie

STOP SMART METERS

2011-11-02T15:34:00.000-07:00

This is from one of our retirees...

Right now, we have NVE RATTLED and we exposed their lies about the meters, so, you guys have until January to start preparing for the installation.

I am getting people calling to join us and start getting on the no install list from up north.

I am adding a letter at the bottom of this post that I would like for you to email blast to your workers, friends etc. This way the people responsible for the deployment see that they are going to have a battle up there like there is down here. All people have to do is date it, put their name and address on it and all the email addresses are on the letter.

The people on the letter are the Directors of Customer service and also Deployment, along with NVE General Counsel and their Sr VP of Government and Community Strategy.

This letter has been reviewed by an attorney and NVE is not arguing with those who submit it. Any customer service rep who starts giving lip to a customer is getting reported to the puc for harassment and false statements.

What NVE is NOT telling people, is that the PUC told them when they ok'ed the approval, was that ie was THE REPSONSIBLITY OF NVE TO GET THE CUSTOMERS TO ACCEPT THEM! THEY ARE NOT MANDATED AT THE FEDERAL LEVEL EITHER.

They are ONLY MANDATED on FEDERAL BUILDINGS or HOUSING!!!!!!!!!

Date:

To: Peasler@nvenergy.com, Tsanchez@NVEnergy.com, Skoon@NVEnergy.com, Pkaleta@NVEnergy.com

re: [property address]

NOTICE OF NO CONSENT TO TRESPASS AND SURVEILLANCE,

NOTICE OF LIABILITY TO NEVADA ENERGY, NEVADA POWER AND/OR THEIR AGENTS ET AL.

Dear Misters Easler, Sanchez, Koon and Kaleta [and NV Energy their agents, officers, employees, contractors and interested parties]:

Be advised, you and all other parties are hereby denied consent for installation and use of any and all “Smart Meters” or any other surveillance and activity monitoring device, or devices, at the above property. Installation and use of any surveillance and activity monitoring device that sends and receives communications technology is hereby refused and prohibited. Informed consent is legally required for installation of any surveillance device and any device that will collect and transmit private and personal data to undisclosed and unauthorized parties for undisclosed and unauthorized purposes. Authorization for sharing of personal and private information may only be given by the originator and subject of that information. That authorization is hereby denied and refused with regard to the above property and all its occupants. “Smart Meters” violate the law and cause endangerment to residents by the following factors:

1. They individually identify electrical devices inside the home and record when they are operated causing invasion of privacy.

2. They monitor household activity and occupancy in violation of rights and domestic security.

3. They transmit wireless signals which may be intercepted by unauthorized and unknown parties. Those signals can be used to monitor behavior and occupancy and they can be used by criminals to aid criminal activity against the occupants.

4. Data about occupant’s daily habits and activities are collected, recorded and stored in permanent databases which are accessed by parties not authorized or invited to know and share that private data by those who’s activities were recorded. Nor are we being told for how long you are storing this information.

5. Those with access to the smart meter databases can review a permanent history of household activities complete with calendar and time-of-day metrics to gain a highly invasive and detailed view of the lives of the occupants.

6. Those databases may be shared with, or fall into the hands of criminals, blackmailers, corrupt law enforcement, private hackers of wireless transmissions, power company employees, and other unidentified parties who may act against the interests of the occupants under metered surveillance.

7. “Smart Meters” are, by definition, surveillance devices which violate Federal and State wiretapping laws by recording and storing databases of private and personal activities and behaviors without the consent or knowledge of those people who are monitored.

8. It is possible for example, with analysis of certain “Smart Meter” data, for unauthorized and distant parties to determine medical conditions, sexual activities, physical locations of persons within the home, vacancy patterns and personal information and habits of the occupants.

9. Your company has not adequately disclosed the particular recording and transmission capabilities of the smart meter, or the extent of the data that will be recorded, stored and shared, or the purposes to which the data will and will not be put.

10. Electromagnetic and Radio Frequency energy contamination from smart meters exceeds allowable safe and healthful limits for domestic environments as determined by the EPA and other scientific programs.

11. In addition I have health conditions that warrant avoidance of any type of devices that emit electromagnetic and/or radio frequencies. Nor have there been any independent peer reviewed long term test results ever been provided that clearly verify that these devices have no long term exposure harm associated with them.

12. Either yourselves or your agents/employees have repeatedly stated that the FCC says these devices are safe. "They do create RF emissions, very low RF emissions," Smith says. "Our meters are all FCC certified. So the federal government controls the standard around smart meter safety." Gary Smith, Program Director for Smart Meters, on the Heidi Harris Show. “The FCC does not have the expertise to evaluate whether the standard (RF safety limits) is appropriate.” (Julius Knapp, Director of FCC Office of Engineering and Technology in response to Congressman Kucinich’s question whether the FCC’s RF safety standards are appropriate to protect children and vulnerable adults and others Sept. 25, 2008 Congressional Hearing.)

13. CIA Director James Woolsey calls Smart grid “Stupid” due to National Security problems caused by so-called smart meters. http://www.energynow.com/video/2011/08/10/preview-mix-james-woolsey

14. Your right to access on my property is strictly limited to the reading of the meters or in the event of a fire emergency. You are not granted permission to make any modifications to my stone and mortar structure without my express written consent. Failure to obtain written consent constitutes vandalism and as such can and will be prosecuted.

15. Threatening disconnection/termination of service outside of failure to pay the outstanding bill or power theft is coercion, intimidation, harassment is a direct and concerted violation of my civil/constitutional rights to enjoy my personal space/property.

I forbid, refuse and deny consent of any installation and use of any monitoring, eavesdropping, and surveillance devices on my property, my place of residence and my place of occupancy. That applies to and includes “Smart Meters” and surveillance and activity monitoring devices of any and all kinds. Any attempt to install any such device directed at me, other occupants, my property or residence will constitute trespass, stalking, wiretapping and unlawful surveillance and endangerment of health and safety, all prohibited and punishable by law through criminal and civil complaints. All persons, government agencies and private organizations responsible for installing or operating monitoring devices directed at or recording my activities, which I have not specifically authorized in writing, will be fully liable for any violations, intrusions, harm or negative consequences caused or made possible by those devices whether those negative consequences are justified by “law” or not.

This is legal notice. After this delivery the liabilities listed above may not be denied or avoided by parties named and implied in this notice. Civil Servant immunities and protections do not apply to the installation of smart meters due to the criminal violations they represent.

//your signature//

address

10 Misconceptions About Long-Term Care Insurance

2011-10-21T09:07:00.001-07:00

BULLETIN

10 Misconceptions About Long-Term Care Insurance

Should you make this investment?

by: Cynthia Ramnarace | from: AARP Bulletin | October 21, 2011

Does this sound familiar?

Long-term care insurance is complicated, costly and unnecessary. I'm healthy! I have family who will care for me, and I refuse to go into a nursing home, anyway. Medicare and Medicaid will cover care once I need it — why waste money on insurance?

See also: AARP's position on the CLASS Act.

Keep reading. The odds that you'll need long-term care are likely greater than you imagine. Seventy percent of all Americans age 65 and older will likely need some form of long-term care (LTC), according to a study in the journal Inquiry. That includes nursing home care as well as assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs): toileting, bathing, dressing, eating, transferring out of bed and incontinence care.

Last week, the Department of Health and Human Services announced that it was dropping the CLASS Act, which would have set up a public LTC insurance program, from the Affordable Care Act. Though the Obama administration has pledged to keep working on a public option for long-term care, it has not offered any concrete solutions, making it much more likely citizens will have to turn to the open market as they look for coverage.

On average, people need care for three years, but 20 percent of today's older adults will need care for five years or more, according to the HHS' National Clearinghouse for Long-Term Care Information. More than 40 percent will need care in a nursing home. And considering the average annual cost of nursing home care is $75,000 a year , this level of care can quickly eat through your savings.

"Long-term care expenses are one of the greater economic risks that older Americans face," says Richard Johnson, director of the Program on Retirement Policy at the Urban Institute. "Nursing homes are incredibly expensive, and if you don't have insurance you're going to have to pay out of pocket, as Medicaid doesn't kick in until you basically spend all of your money on long-term care."

Here are 10 misconceptions about LTC insurance to consider when deciding whether to make this investment:

1. Medicare will pay for care

Medicare only covers LTC for short periods of time, such as rehabilitation after an injury or illness. It does not cover assistance with ADLs that many older adults need to maintain their independence. Medicaid will cover nursing home care only if your income is below a certain level and after you've depleted almost all your savings.

2. Insurance only covers nursing home care

When LTC insurance was first introduced in the 1980s, it was meant to cover only nursing home care. Not anymore. Today most policies are joint policies, meaning they cover both in-home assistance and nursing home care. "You can think of it this way: Long-term care insurance might keep me out of a nursing home," Johnson says.

Next: More likely to get coverage if you're between 52 and 64. >>

3. My family will take care of me for free

Yes, they likely will. But think about whether you want them to. If you need help using the bathroom, bathing or changing soiled undergarments (incontinence does happen), would you want your children doing that or would you prefer the help of a skilled medical professional? LTC insurance covers in-home assistance from licensed home health agencies.

4. I'm too young to worry about it

The younger you are, the more likely you are to qualify for coverage. "The median age when people purchase is 57, but the sweet spot is between 52 and 64 because once you qualify for Medicare your health history tends to get more complicated as you suddenly get all these free medical screenings and tests," says Jesse Slome, executive director of the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance.

5. When I need it, I'll get it

"Once you have a diagnosis of an illness, you can't get coverage," says Maryglenn Boals, an independent long-term care insurance agent in Phoenix. "Think of it this way: We can't insure a house once it's on fire." When you apply for coverage, the insurance company will look at your most recent medical history to evaluate your health. Only 17 percent of people in their 50s are denied coverage, but that number jumps to 45 percent for people in their 70s, says Slome. Once you have coverage and pay your premiums, you have it regardless of what medical issues arise.

6. I'll fail the medical screening

Don't assume that just because you have high cholesterol or are a few pounds overweight that you won't qualify. For most applicants, especially the young ones in their 50s and 60s, underwriting only looks at your most recent medical records from your doctor to see what illnesses you've been diagnosed with and what medications you are on. You'll also undergo a cognitive exam via phone. There's no in-home visit by a medical professional.

Next: Don't give up if you've been denied insurance. >>

7. I was denied and so am uninsurable

Yes, a denial is a strike against you, says Boals. But it doesn't mean you should stop shopping around. There are many companies out there, and an independent long-term care insurance agent can help you find one that might not consider you as much of a risk, says Boals.

8. I can't afford it

Coverage might be less costly than you think, especially if you purchase in your 50s. For a husband and wife, both age 55 and in good health, the average annual premium is $2,350, says Slome. (The range is $2,085 to $3,970 depending on your health history and the individual insurer.) Premiums can rise over that time, but increases are never based on your personal medical history and require state regulatory approval.

9. Insurance will cover all my needs

Long-term insurance is not limitless. In the above scenario, the 55-year-old couple qualifies for $338,000 in coverage as soon as they pay their first premium. That amount increases over time to $821,500 by age 85. Many plans also have deductibles, meaning you will have to pay out a certain amount for care before coverage kicks in. And if your medical needs exceed those amounts, you will have to pay the balance.

10. It's too complicated

If your eyes glaze over at talk of contingent, non-forfeiture, share care … you're not alone. Many different companies offer many different plans. But the LTC insurance industry is working to make it less confusing. "I think as agents, we've made it complicated, but it doesn't have to be that way," says Boals. "We talk in insurance terms. But what I ask my clients is, 'If something happened, what would you want it to look like? Where would you want to be? What are the things that you worry about?' And then we craft a policy from there."

Cynthia Ramnarace writes about health and families. She is based in Rockaway Beach, N.Y.

Reno/Sparks IBEW Local 1245 Retirees Club

February 24, 2012 edition~Friday Alert

Tom Bird message...

LOCAL 1245 RETIREES LAUNCH CARSON CITY CHAPTER

Retired BEW Local 1245 members have launched a new chapter of the union's Retirees Club in Carson City, NV.

Protecting Your Retirement Income ~ RSVP Please!!!

Commission takes what could be first-ever swing at NV Energy pay scale

Commission takes what could be first-ever swing at NV Energy pay scale

Post from Tom Dalzell...

Most recent information on Tom...

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/tomdalzell/journal

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012 9:29 AM, PST

Staying Connected

Yerington monthly meeting update!!

Asbestos in Nevada

Asbestos in Nevada

IBEW1245 ~ BUSINESS MANAGER Tom Dalzell Illness

MONDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2011 3:29 PM, PST

Talking

MONDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2011 9:41 AM, PST

Off the respirator!

MONDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2011 6:56 AM, PST

And in Cambodia

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2011 3:54 PM, PST

Limiting Visitors

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2011 2:11 PM, PST

Sunday morning

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2011 12:20 AM, PST

In the balance

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2011 8:33 PM, PST

Saturday night all right all right

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2011 4:41 PM, PST

No surgery

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2011 2:17 PM, PST

Thank you's

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2011 1:35 PM, PST

Stable at a precarious point

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2011 10:16 PM, PST

Progress

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2011 7:54 PM, PST

Better News!

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2011 3:07 PM, PST

Friday afternoon

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2011 2:44 PM, PST

Update from Debbie Mazzanti

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2011 2:35 PM, PST

Mid morning Friday

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2011 2:08 PM, PST

Update Friday morning

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2011 2:04 PM, PST

Beginning of the emergency

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2011 1:51 PM, PST

From Clare

IBEW1245 Retiree Club Holiday Party in Yerington!!

Update on Rod Thomas' grandson Cooper...

HAPPY 11/11/11 @11:11am to YOU!!

Mike Silva, the PG&E retiree, died Oct. 30.

MIKE SILVA: STEADFAST IN THE CAUSE

OF GIVING LOCAL 1245 RETIREES A VOICE

IBEW1245 Retiree Club Holiday Party

STOP SMART METERS

10 Misconceptions About Long-Term Care Insurance

Related