FREE RETIREE CHAPTER BREAKFAST & $25. CASH DOOR PRIZES IN GULF BREEZE, FL., SAT., SEPT. 8, 2007!

Four (4) smiling APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter Officers and Delegates share a group photo with FLARA President Tony Fransetta pictured on right in white polo shirt after their election to the FLARA Executive Board, installation of officers, and adjournment of the 2-day annual Florida Alliance for Retired Americans State Convention on Tue., June 5, 2007, held at the Florida Hotel & Conference Center, Orlando, FL. (L to R: Chapter Legislative Director Dave Bernstein from Tampa; Jerome Hipscher, winner of 2007 U. S. A. President's Call to Service Award; Chapter Secretary-Treasurer Mario G. Miceli from Clearwater; Chapter President Jack Gose from South Pasadena; and FLARA President Tony Fransetta from Wellington, FL.)

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FREE RETIREE CHAPTER BREAKFAST & CASH DOOR PRIZES AT QUALITY INN, GULF BREEZE, FL. ON SAT., SEPT. 8, 2007
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An APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter FREE BREAKFAST will be given to each Retiree Chapter member paying APWU Retiree union dues of $2.00 month or $24.00 year to the National APWU Retirees Department and one guest attending the semi-annual APWU of Florida Retirees Chapter Breakfast to be held in the Mahi Mahi onsite Restaurant, 51 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze, Fl 32561 at the end of the 3-mile bridge from Pensacola in the Florida Panhandle, from 7:00 am to 8:30 am on Saturday, September 8, 2007. The FREE breakfast includes food, taxes, and gratuity for each APWU Retiree Chapter Member and one spouse or family member, limited to two (2) FREE breakfasts for each Chapter member.

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Up to five (5) $25.00 CASH DOOR PRIZES will be awarded to the first five (5) lucky Chapter Retirees signing in at the Chapter Breakfast who pay Retiree union dues to the National APWU in Washington, D.C., according to Jack Gose, Chapter President.

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An APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter Executive Board meeting of Retiree Chapter Officers in attendance will be held in the Mahi Mahi Restaurant Private Dining Area (PDR) during the breakfast, to discuss and plan for future Florida State Retiree Chapter activities in 2007 and 2008. Florida has the most active Retiree Chapter in the Nation!

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The APWU of Florida Fall Educational Seminar for active and retiree APWU members begins on Thurs., Sept. 6 thru Sat., Sept. 8, 2007 at the Quality Inn Bay Beach in Gulf Breeze where the semi-annual conclave is to be held for educational classes arranged by Pete Trunzo, Education Director. Check elsewhere in this issue for a list of classes and instructors, or go online to www.apwuflorida.org to get the information.

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APWU of Florida special group single/double room rate is $69.00 nite or $99.00 nite for poolside plus 10.5 % taxes. Phone the Quality Inn on Gulf Breeze Parkway at 1-850-932-2214 to reserve your room. Members must indicate the “APWU” group name to get a room.

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President Jack Gose and Legislative Director Dave Bernstein will be representing the APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter attending the Alliance for Retired Americans Legislative Conference at the Hilton Hotel on Connecticut Ave in Washington, D.C. from Tue., Sept. 5 to Fri., Sept. 7, 2007. They have appointments with our Congressional Senators and Representatives on Capitol Hill, and will be lobbying for the preservation of APWU Active and Retiree issues dear to the hearts of all of us like Social Security, Medicare, Prescription Drugs, Housing, and other Federal Employee entitlements.

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We will also ask our elected Congress to co-sponsor S. 773 and H.R. 1110, legislation that would offset the rising cost of postal, military, and federal retirees’ health insurance premiums by allowing them to pay for their healthcare insurance with pre-tax income, saving the typical postal retiree yearly about $435. Members of Congress will be urged to co-sponsor and pass S. 206 and H.R. 82 legislation that would repeal the unfair Government Pension Offset (GPO) and Windfall Elimination Provisions (WEP) of Social Security that deny earned benefits to CSRS retirees.

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APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter Vice President Valentine Serpico from Ft. Lauderdale and Secretary-Treasurer Mario Miceli from Clearwater will attend all three (3) days of the Fall Seminar, and President Jack Gose will attend the Sat., Sept. 8 classes.

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FLARA EB & LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE TO BE IN TAMPA. FL. SEPT. 9-10, 2007
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Tony Fransetta, President, Florida Alliance for Retired Americans (FLARA), has announced a quarterly Executive Board meeting and FLARA Legislative Conference to be held in Tampa, FL. on Monday, Sept. 10, 2007 at the Grand Suites Tampa Bay (former Doubletree Guest Suites Busch Gardens), 11310 N. 30th Street, Tampa, FL 33612.

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The Grand Suites Tampa Bay (former Doubletree Suites Busch Gardens) is an all suites hotel and the FLARA standard room discounted rate is $89.00, plus 12 % taxes per night, for FLARA members and guests. Standard Suite has a king size and pull-out bed, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, and house up to four people. Call the Grand Suites Tampa Bay Hotel at 1-813-971-7690 to make room reservations, and ask for the FLARA special group rate. You are to arrive on Sunday, Sept. 9, 2007 and check in at the hotel after 3 pm and checkout time is 11 am on Monday, Sept. 10, 2007. All roads lead to Tampa Town for FLARA/APWU Retiree Actions now. Join us in real APWU Retiree Solidarity to protect all of our Futures!

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The conclave has been called to discuss and layout plans for action in the State of Florida and in the Fall/Winter session of Congress. The meetings will be held on Monday, Sept. 10, 2007 and will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a break for lunch from 12 noon to 1 p.m. Many invited guests and well-known political figures will speak. Every APWU active and retiree member is invited to attend! Go online to www.flara.org to see our history!

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All FLARA Executive Board members, Club and individual members including 3000 APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter members and invited family/guests are welcome at this exciting gathering to foster support for the important issues that face APWU of Florida Union active members, retirees, and seniors. Please contact FLARA President Tony Fransetta in West Palm Beach area at 1-561-792-8799 if you are interested in attending or have any questions or comments. Phone Jack Gose, FLARA 2nd Vice President, at 727-343-2998 or go to jak.gose@excite.com to ask for more information!
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FLA AFL-CIO CONVENTION AT TRADEWINDS, ST. PETE BEACH, FL. OCT. 1-3, 2007
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The Florida AFL-CIO Biennial Convention will be held at the Tradewinds Island Resorts, 5500 Gulf Blvd., St. Petersburg Beach, FL 33706, 25 acres of Tropical Heaven, from Mon., Oct. 1 thru Wed., Oct. 3, 2007 according to President Cindy Hall. Every seat on the Florida AFL-CIO 42-member Executive Board is up for election, and it is expected there will a large turnout of elected Delegates and Guests from all over the state for this event. The Florida AFL-CIO New Alliance policies go into effect at this Convention, and it is hoped that several APWU locals will send Delegates to attend this Extravaganza.

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Registration fee is $75.00 to attend and get a complete Florida AFL-CIO Convention bag with all the Officer’s reports and resolutions. For Delegates who only attend the Convention to cast a vote, there is a $10.00 registration fee but no Convention bag is given. Contact Dwayne Sealey, Secretary-Treasurer, Florida AFL-CIO, 135 S. Monroe St., Tallahassee, FL 32301 or phone 850-224-6926 to pay your registration.

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To reserve a Tradewinds Island Resort standard room at the Florida AFL-CIO group rate of $109. night plus 12 % tax, phone 727-363-2200 before August 20, 2007 for this great rate. If you have any questions or need more info, contact Jack Gose 24/7 at 727-343-2998!

SALUTE TO AMERICAN WORLD WAR VETERANS LETTER TO THE EDITOR!

Tony Fiore, age 87, clad in blue shirt and shorts, wearing a cap and eyeglasses, and author of the below article is pictured in the left rear of this photo taken at the Suncoast Area Local Retirees Chapter luncheon held at Buddy Freddys Buffet Restaurant, Holiday, Fl. on Tue., March 27, 2007. (Photo taken with a Kodak 800 speed Flash camera by President Jack Gose)

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REMEMBER ARMED FORCES DAY by Tony Fiore
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Dear Editor: On Saturday, May 19th, 2007 it will be Armed Forces Day. In 1944, 16,535,000 Americans were in uniform. That was World War II and 16,129,000 survived. As of Sept. 6, 2006, 3,064,236 were still alive. According to the U.S. Dept. of Veterans’ Affairs, 1,100 are dying every day, about 400,000 each year.

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It is sad but true, the World War II veterans will soon be gone. We must recognize them while they are still here. If your neighbor is 79 or older, he or she is probably a World War II veteran.

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World War I (1917-1918) 4,744,000 fought in that war, supposedly the war to end all wars. 116,000 were killed. As of July 1, 1998, 4,800 were still living. But it’s now 2007 and at the last count that number is down to eight.

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The Korean Conflict (1950-1955), “The Forgotten War” 6,807,000 were there. 55,000 gave their lives in an effort to stop the spread of communism. In July 1955, the Korean War Memorial was dedicated in Washington, D.C. Inscribed on the granite slab is “Our Nation Honors Her Sons and Daughters Who Answered the Call to Defend a Country They Never Knew and a People They Never Met” – 1950-Korea-1953.

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The Vietnam Era (1964-1975), 9,200,000 answered the call with 58,151 dead. The Gulf War 3,800,000 were there and 9,000 now dead. We now have Afghanistan and Iraq. Yes, we are at war. In Iraq, the toll for young men and women killed is up over 3,600 and in Afghanistan over 407 killed. We offer only our prayers and hope they will soon return home.

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We owe a lot to the Armed Forces, past and present. God Bless America.

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[Tony Fiore is an active APWU member of the Florida Suncoast Retiree Chapter #1228, and lives in Gulfport, FL 33707. He attends the Local Chapter luncheon and business meetings in Holiday, FL., and is a contributing writer to the Gulfport Gabber area newsletter from which the above article was retrieved and updated.]

FLORIDA STATE RETIREE CHAPTER SPRING SEMINAR MEETINGS MAY 9-12, 2007 IN WEST PALM BEACH, FL HUGE SUCCESS!

Natl. APWU Secretary-Treasurer Terry Stapleton looks on sitting beside APWU of Florida President Martha Shunn-King as Judy Beard, Natl. APWU Asst. Sec.-Treas. makes a Dept. of Labor, IRS, and Constitution Report from the dais microphone for all

142 assembled Officers, Stewards, Retirees, Auxiliary, and Members at the APWU of Florida Spring Seminar, held at Hilton Palm Beach Airport Hotel, West Palm Beach, FL on Thur., May 10, 2007. (Photo taken with a Kodak 800 speed Flash camera by Retiree Chapter President Jack Gose)
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The semi-annual APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter Executive Board meeting in the Veranda Restaurant, Hilton Palm Beach Airport Hotel, West Palm Beach, FL on Wed., May 9, 2007 was attended by President Jack Gose, Secretary-Treasurer Mario Miceli, and Legislative Director Dave Bernstein. Six (6) motions covering future State Retiree activities were unanimously approved in the Sunshine open to all APWU Chapter members. A fabulous buffet luncheon was enjoyed by everyone noon to 1:15 pm.

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Jack Gose distributed twenty (20) Retiree Happy folders to each of the Florida Area Local/Local Presidents attending the Florida Local Presidents Conference on Wed., May 9 in the same hotel. The folders were chock full of interesting materials, including the National APWU Retirees Department CSRS/FERS book used in teaching at retirement classes for APWU Stewards, Officers, and Members. We think each APWU Area Local/Local President should be the Retirement Counselor contact for their Local membership or appoint another Local Officer to perform this important duty!

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The State Retiree Chapter put thousands of FREE copies of materials on display tables in the Hilton Ballroom Vendor area, and the response was positive to say the least. By Saturday, May 12 the last day of classes for active and retiree members, twelve (12) tables were in use. An APWU Health Fair in the Coconut Room offered many other health materials displayed on a dozen tables. Many of the young APWU officers and stewards had never attended an APWU of Florida Educational Seminar before. It was evident they were starved for hard copy information when I spread out 50 FREE copies of APWU Local Newsletters from all over the country and 50 FREE copies of different National magazines on Saturday, May 12 when half of them were picked up within two hours during the morning session. Jack passed out handouts in various classes when requested by the instructors.

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We thank President Martha-Shunn King for her permission to allow us to give away hundreds of APWU National, State, and Local historical pictures dating back to the creation of APWU in June, 1972. It was nice meeting Retiree Sam Smith from Palm Beach Area Local, who has expressed an interest in starting an APWU Area Local Retiree Chapter in West Palm Beach, and our thanks to President Wayne Parker for introducing him to our Chapter officers. We gave out several of the new APWU Retiree Member Form 1187 Application forms for new Retirees, which include the option to join by paying (1) $2.00 month, (2) $2.00 month plus full National APWU per cap which gives the Retiree the right to vote for all the National APWU General Officers, and (3) COPA Contribution. Having everything on the same form makes sense, and the new options are very popular. Our Retiree Chapter wishes to thank everyone for their support and encouragement in the education of officers, stewards, and members on retiree issues! We wish to thank President Bill Burrus for his continued support of Retiree issues.

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Our hat is off to Judy Beard, Natl. APWU Asst. Sec.-Treas., who gave class presentations on Sec.-Treas., IRS, DOL, and Constitution and By-Laws with wall to wall attendance, and we were happy to assist her in passing out over 100 handbooks on these subjects. Retirees Jack Gose and Dave Bernstein, Clerk Craft Dir. Doris Orr-Richardson, and Maint. Craft Dir. Tony Neri collected $155. donations for COPA at the doors on Thur., May 10 during a Union Label check of clothing before members entered General Forum. We look forward to the next Seminar in the Fall of 2007, and we Love Ya!

FREE APWU RETIREE ONE YEAR MEMBERSHIP

We have been informed by Douglas Cowan Holbrook, National APWU Retirees Dept. Director, in Washington, D.C. that the Natl. APWU Executive Board of the APWU has approved a resolution that will provide FREE MEMBERSHIP TO RETIREES who retire in 2007. This FREE MEMBERSHIP is offered to our retirees as one way of thanking them for their years as a member of the union.

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All that is required from the retiree is a completed APWU Retiree Membership application. This application or card will not be processed until the expiration of one year. After one year the Retiree union dues will be $2.00 per month deducted from their annuity check. The Civil Service Annuity (CSA) 7-digit number mailed to the Retiree from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), Social Security number, address, and signature of the Retiree must be affixed on the completed form.

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The National APWU has 300 to 500 employees retiring each month, and we should be able to sign up at least 50 % or more of these retirees as opposed to the current 11% to 13 %. It is up to the elected Presidents of Area Locals/Locals in the State of Florida to phone Douglas C. Holbrook, National APWU Retirees Director at 1-202-842-8584 or write to him at the National APWU Retirees Department, 1300 L Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20005, and order a supply of these new APWU Retiree Member application forms, and give one of these forms to every APWU member before they retire or soon after.

NATIONAL ALLIANCE FOR RETIRED AMERICANS LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE SEPTEMBER 4TH-7TH, 2007 AT WASHINGTON, D.C. HILTON HOTEL

The APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter will send President Jack Gose and Legislative Director Dave Bernstein to attend the Legislative Conference of the National Alliance for Retired Americans (NARA) Sept. 4-7, 2007 in Washington, D.C., and they will lobby our Congress on Capitol Hill on Retiree, Senior, and Postal Reform issues. The APWU Delegates will represent 3,000 APWU Retirees in the State of Florida who pay $24.00 year union dues to the National APWU Retirees Department. The State Retiree Chapter pays full membership dues to the Florida Alliance for Retired Americans, Inc., a 501 C (3) charitable and educational organization. Visit our Retiree website at www.retireeparadise.blogspot.com for more Retiree info, and it only takes a minute to load!

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The Convention is to be held Tuesday, September 4 thru Friday, Sept. 7, 2007 at the Hilton Washington and Towers Union Hotel, 1919 Connecticut Ave., NW, Washington, D.C. 20009. The Hilton is located near DuPont Circle and Embassy Row. Hotel room rates are $146.00 night plus 14.5 % taxes, and are guaranteed until July 20, 2007. Check-in time is 3 pm; check-out time is 12 noon. Hotel reservations should be made by calling the Hilton Washington and Towers directly toll-free at 1-888-324-4586 and ask for the special Alliance for Retired Americans group rate.

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The Conference registration early bird fee is $80.00, if received by July 20, 2007. After that date, the registration fee is $95.00. A Banquet featuring a noted personality is set for Thurs., Sept. 6 at 6 pm. Banquet tickets are $70.00 person and should be ordered with the registration form. Tickets will be issued on a first come, first serve basis. You will receive your tickets when you arrive at the Conference. To register, phone toll-free 1-888-373-6497 and ask for Joni Jones at Registration Desk, or E-mail to jjones@retiredamericans.org or visit our ARA national website at www.retiredamericans.org for more late breaking news. Lobby Day is Thursday, Sept. 6, 2007 and eat with us in the Senate cafeteria!

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The opening session is to begin at 3 pm on Tues., Sept. 4, and the last event will conclude by 3 pm on Fri., Sept. 7, 2008. You will be in Washington, D.C. only 3 nights! The Alliance has grown to over 3.4 million members in 27 chartered states since formed by the National AFL-CIO in 2001, and the Florida Alliance for Retired Americans (FLARA) has increased to over 220,000 dues paying members in the State of Florida from 22 different international unions and over 100 community based groups since 2002 being the 2nd state to be chartered by NARA, a 501 C (4) organization which is issues oriented.

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We are frankly shocked to arrive in Washington, D.C. at the Hilton Hotel where President Ronald Reagan was shot, and when checking in at the registration desk to find that only a handful of APWU Retirees are registered Delegates to this annual Retiree Conference representing all the AFL-CIO unions in America. Last year in 2006, only three (3) APWU Delegates were in attendance, two from APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter and one from Atlanta, GA. The National Alliance for Retired Americans annual dues is only $10.00 year which covers both the APWU Retiree member and spouse.

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This is your opportunity to join your brothers and sisters from other AFL-CIO International Unions in a show of Solidarity. ARA State Chapters have been chartered in the below TWENTY-SEVEN (27) states in the last five (5) years since 2002: AZ, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, HI, IL, IN, ME, MD/DC, MN, MO, NE, NV, NM, NY, NC, OH, OR, PA, RI, TX, VT, WA, WV, and WISC. Illinois was the first state to receive an ARA State Charter and Florida was the second state chartered in 2002.

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As the elected 2nd Vice President of the Florida ARA Chapter, comprised of over 220,000 dues paying members paying 25 cents per member, per year, I am proud of the

accomplishments we have achieved over the last five (5) years, thanks to FLARA President Tony Fransetta from Wellington, FL. We hope to see some new APWU Delegate faces at the Conference in our nation’s Capitol on Sept. 4-7, 2007!

APWU RETIREES INVITED TO FLARA ANNUAL CONVENTION & LUNCHEON SET FOR FLORIDA HOTEL & CONF. CENTER, 1500 SAND LAKE RD, ORLANDO, FL 32809 JUNE 3-5, 2007!

It is a pleasure to invite all 3000 APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter union dues paying $24.00 year Retiree members, Retiree delegates, active APWU dues paying officers and members, and family members to the Florida Alliance for Retired Americans (FLARA) 2007 Annual Convention and Quarterly Board of Directors meeting to be held on Sunday, June 3 thru Tuesday, June 5, 2007 at the FLORIDA HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTER, 1500 Sand Lake Road, Orlando, FL 32809. Hotel check-in is 3 pm on Sunday, June 3rd and check-out is 12 noon Wednesday, June 6, 2007.

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The Florida Hotel and Conference Center room rate for FLARA members is $89.00 per night for single or double room, plus 12.5 % taxes which includes resort fee. When making your reservations, please call toll-free 1-800-588-4656 OR 1-407-859-1500 and ask for the FLARA special group rate as an attendee of Florida Alliance for Retired Americans. The $5.00 day hotel service fee for parking is included in the group rate. Our meeting will begin Mon., June 4th from 9 am until 5 pm, with a break for lunch. We will meet again on Tue., June 5th at 9 am with a break for lunch from 12 noon to 1 pm.

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The registration fee for the Convention is $80.00 per person. Any registered delegate wishing to bring a guest to the prepaid meals should register their guest at $60.00 each. Lunch is provided for by FLARA. If you are interested, contact Yvonne Garrity, Executive Director, at the FLARA office in Wellington, Fl. by phone at 561-792-8799 to register and receive Convention materials and an updated agenda.

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Submit your registration form along with your payment made payable to “FLARA” to: FLARA, 12773 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 211, Wellington, FL 33414. Registration forms and fees must be received by FLARA by May 20, 2007 to process your credentials and better plan for a successful convention.

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Many well known political and union leaders are invited to attend this annual event. Resolutions will be offered to oppose the Privatization of the U.S. Postal Service, Retirement benefits, and the Social Security Program entitlements for all Americans. Go to www.flara.org for info about FLARA and www.retiredamericans.org to join 3.4 million other Retirees.

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At this Convention, in addition to the election of Officers and Board Members, any proposed changes to the FLARA Constitution and By-Laws will be discussed and voted upon by the convention body. It is important that all Board Members, Club, and Individual members be in attendance for this discussion and action.

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APWU is one of 22 unions affiliated with FLARA in the State of Florida! All FLARA club/chapter dues must be current in order for clubs/chapters to have proper voting status. If you have not sent in your chapter or individual dues, please do so immediately. If you have any questions, ask to speak with Tony Fransetta, President, FLARA, by phone at 561-792-8799. Need more info, contact Jack Gose at 727-343-2998 or jak.gose@excite.com online.

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The Florida Alliance for Retired Americans (FLARA), formerly known as Florida State Council of Senior Citizens was formed in 1963 in the fight for Medicare, and we find ourselves once again fighting to keep our Medicare! FLARA has over 220,000 dues paying members in the State of Florida thru individual memberships of $10.00 year and club affiliations such as the APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter. Our organization works for Florida’s elderly and retired workers as active participants in the community.

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NATL LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE IN WASH., D.C. SEPT 4-7, 2007

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The APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter will send up to two (2) Retiree Delegates to attend the Legislative Conference of the National Alliance for Retired Americans (NARA) Sept. 4-7, 2007 in Washington, D.C. and lobby our Congress on Capitol Hill on Retiree, Senior, and Postal Reform issues. The APWU Delegates are President Jack Gose and Legislative Director Dave Bernstein who will represent 3,000 APWU Retirees in the State of Florida who pay $24.00 year union dues to the National APWU Retirees Department.

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The State Retiree Chapter pays full membership dues to the Florida Alliance for Retired Americans, Inc., a 501 C (3) charitable and educational organization. Visit our website at www.retireeparadise.blogspot.com for more info!

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The Convention is to be held Tuesday, September 4 thru Friday, Sept. 7, 2007 at the Hilton Washington and Towers Union Hotel, 1919 Connecticut Ave., NW, Washington, D.C. 20009. The Hilton is located near DuPont Circle and Embassy Row. Hotel room rates are $146.00 night plus 14.5 % taxes, and are guaranteed until July 20, 2007. Check-in time is 3 pm; check-out time is 12 noon. Hotel reservations should be made by calling the Hilton Washington and Towers directly toll-free at 1-888-324-4586.

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I have attended the first annual NARA National Legislative Conferences held in Washington, D.C. in 2002, 2003, 2005, and 2006, and the NARA Southern Region Leadership Conference held in Jacksonville, FL in 2004. This is every active and retired Postal Worker’s opportunity to step up to the plate, and become active in legislative lobbying at the highest levels!

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The Conference registration early bird fee is $80.00, if received by July 20, 2007. After that date, the registration fee is $95.00. A Banquet featuring a noted personality is set for Thurs., Sept. 6 at 6 pm. Banquet tickets are $70.00 person and should be ordered with the registration form. Tickets will be issued on a first come, first serve basis. You will receive your tickets when you arrive at the Conference. To register, phone toll-free 1-888-373-6497 and ask for Joni Jones at Registration Desk, or E-mail to jjones@retiredamericans.org or visit our ARA national website at www.retiredamericans.org for more late breaking news.

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The opening session is to begin at 3 pm on Tues., Sept. 4, and the last event will conclude by 3 pm on Fri., Sept. 7, 2008. You will be in Washington, D.C. only 3 nights! The Alliance has grown to over 3.4 million members in 27 chartered states since formed by the National AFL-CIO in 2001, and the Florida Alliance for Retired Americans (FLARA) has increased to over 220,000 dues paying members in the State of Florida from 22 different international unions and over 100 community based groups since 2002 being the 2nd state to be chartered by NARA, a 501 C (4) organization which is issues oriented.

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The National Alliance’s aims are to mobilize retired union members and other activists in a grassroots movement advocating a progressive political and social agenda. One of the purposes of the Alliance is to Fight for Retirement Security by educating our members about government policies affecting Retirement Security. The major focus of the speakers, workshops, and training sessions will be on our work growing State Alliances that educate, and Lobby Day in Washington will highlight the 2007 Election year results in Congress. Retirees will not forget the Election of 2004 and will battle against Social Security, Medicare, and Postal Service privatization efforts. Hope to see you in Washington, D.C. on Sept. 4-7, 2007! We Love Ya!

SUNCOAST RETIREE CHAPTER NEWS, MAY-JUL, 2007: STATE RETIREE CHAPTER FREE LUNCHEON & $25.00 DOOR PRIZES HILTON AIRPORT HOTEL, W. PALM BEACH, FL. MAY 9

VOLUME 10, NUMBER 3, MAY-JULY, 2007

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A publication of the Suncoast Area Local, APWU, AFL-CIO, serving over 720 APWU Retiree Chapter Dues Paying Members and their families living in zip codes 337 and 346 along the Gulf Coast of Florida and a Proud Member of APWU National Postal Press Association, Florida Postal Press Association, National Alliance for Retired Americans, Florida Alliance for Retired Americans, and West Central Florida, Federation of Labor, Central Labor Council. The Florida Suncoast Retiree Chapter was chartered by the National APWU in November, 1998. Our APWU Retiree Newsletter is the first published and mailed via the U.S. Postal Service in the Nation and we really do care! Contact us when in need of a lifeline. Life is full of wonderful surprises. What a great feeling to live in Florida! Never any local or state APWU Retiree union dues to pay!

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NEW RETIREE CHAPTER INTERNET WEBSITE LAUNCHED: www.retireeparadise.blogspot.com

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APWU OF FLORIDA SPRING SEMINAR MAY 10-12, 2007 IN W. PALM BEACH, FL. – RETIREES FREE LUNCHEON & $25.00 DOOR PRIZES WED., MAY 9 IN HILTON PB AIRPORT HOTEL!

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An APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter FREE LUNCHEON is scheduled in the Veranda Restaurant, Hilton Palm Beach Airport Hotel, 150 Australian Av., West Palm Beach, FL 33406 on Wednesday, May 9, 2007 from 12 noon to 1:15 pm for APWU of Florida Retiree Chapter dues paying members and family.

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The FREE luncheon includes food, taxes, and gratuity for each APWU Retiree Chapter Member and one spouse or family member, limited to two (2) FREE luncheons for each Chapter member.

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Up to five (5) $25.00 CASH DOOR PRIZES will be awarded to the first five (5) lucky Retirees who pay $24.00 year union dues to the National APWU Retirees Dept. signing in at the luncheon. according to Jack Gose, Chapter President. APWU Retiree Happy folders chock full of interesting trivia and news articles will be given out to all in attendance at the Retirees luncheon.

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The State Retiree Chapter Executive Board will meet at 11 am before the luncheon to discuss and plan for future Retiree activities, including the National APWU Retiree Department Conference to be held in Las Vegas, NV in 2007.

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APWU of Florida group room rate is $119.00 nite single/double plus 11.5 % taxes. Phone Hilton Hotel at 1-800-443-3545 toll free to reserve your room. FREE Hilton Self-parking with hotel check-in 4 pm and check-out 11 am.

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APWU of Florida Fall Seminar educational classes for active and retiree members are scheduled for Thursday, May 10, 2007 from 9 am to 4:30 pm; Friday, 9 am-4:30 pm; & on Saturday, May 12 from 9-12 in the same hotel.
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FLARA ANNUAL CONVENTION & EB MTG AT FLORIDA HOTEL IN ORLANDO SCHEDULED FOR JUNE 3RD-5TH, 2007!

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All 3000 APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter Officers, Members, and Families are invited to the annual FLORIDA ALLIANCE FOR RETIRED AMERICANS (FLARA) CONVENTION and Executive Board meeting on Sun., June 3 thru Tue., June 5, 2007 in the Florida Hotel, 1500 Sand Lake Road, Orlando, FL 32809.

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FLARA will have meetings from 9 am to 5 pm on Mon., June 4 and Tue., June 5 to include special invited elected officials and legislators from the national and state scenes and guest speakers covering Retiree, Senior, and Postal issues such as Social Security, Medicare, Health Insurance, Prescription Drugs, and Medicaid. Our APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter officers, members, and families are urged to attend these meetings! RETIREE VOTES COUNT! If you want more information, call Jack Gose at 727-343-2998 or E-mail Jak.Gose@Excite.com

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ALLIANCE FOR RETIRED AMERICANS NATL CONVENTION IN WASH., D.C. AT HILTON HOTEL - SEPTEMBER 4-7, 2007!

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The Alliance for Retired Americans invites all Retiree members and families to attend its National Legislative Conference at the Hilton Washington and Towers, 1919 Connecticut Av, NW, Washington, D.C. 20009 on Tue., Sept. 4 thru Fri., Sept. 7. 2007. GET ENERGIZED & SPEAK OUT!
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FREE LUNCHEON TO FIRST FORTY (40) CHAPTER MEMBERS/FAMILY MEMBERS TO SIGN IN ON ATTENDANCE SHEET ON TUESDAY, MAY 22, 2007 AT 11:00 A.M. AT BUDDY FREDDYS BUFFET RESTAURANT LOCATED IN HOLIDAY, FLORIDA AT 1150 U. S. HIGHWAY 19, ABOUT 100 YARDS NORTH OF THE PINELLAS/PASCO COUNTY LINE.

Florida Suncoast Retiree Chapter members/family members, excluding Chapter Officers, can win the Face Card $25.00 Cash Door Prize at the regular Chapter meeting on Tuesday, May 22, 2007 in Holiday, Florida. Our invited guest speaker from The Hospice of Fla. Suncoast will talk on Caring for the Family.

All active and retired members/family guests are invited to all our Chapter meetings. Retiree Chapter members attending their first Chapter meeting shall be awarded a $10.00 Sign In Bonus Cash Prize, limited to the first five (5) to arrive at each meeting, and also shall receive a FREE National APWU Survivors’ Family Booklet worth $3.00.

One hundred ninety-four (194) persons have signed in and attended our meetings to date since 1998! Please join us and pick up your prize! Life is Just a Bowl of Cherries!

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EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETS 10 AM TO 11 AM
LUNCHEON FROM 11 AM TO 12:30 PM
REGULAR MEETING FROM 12:30 PM - 1 PM
FSRC FOUNDERS 2006-2007 EXECUTIVE BOARD

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Jack Gose, President 727-343-2998
Dan Delehanty, First Vice-President 727-862-2923
Janet Hamlin, 2nd Vice President 727-379-0032
Jerry Columbus, Secretary 727-372-9855
John Sardin, Jr., Treasurer 727-347-5687
Bob Jilek, Trustee Chair 727-535-2409
Mike Sullivan, Local Union President 727-520-7300

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FSRC FOUNDERS 2006-2007 ADDTL. OFFICERS

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John R. Stephens, Health Plan Rep. 727-934-4033 Spencer Blydenburgh, Trustee/Mbr Dir 727-544-6536
Mario G. Miceli, Legislative Director 727-446-4781
Alfred DiServio, Historian & AFL-CIO 727-372-9219
Tom Brown, Trustee 727-847-6987
Skip Lilly, Sergeant-at-Arms 727-546-4206
Don Robinson, Retiree CLC Delegate 727-819-2094
Rutha Gavin, Chaplain 727-894-1349
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SERGEANT-AT-ARMS 2007 LISTEN UP!

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The below twenty-eight (28) Florida Suncoast Retiree Chapter Members, Family, & Guests, attended the entertaining Retiree Chapter luncheon and business meeting held on Tuesday, March 27, 2007 at Buddy Freddys Buffet Restaurant in Holiday, FL. 34691!

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FLA. SUNCOAST RET. CHAPTER MEMBERS (18)

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Clearwater, Mario Miceli; Gulfport, Tony Fiore; Holiday, Susan Gilley, Peter Stecyk, Jr., and John R. Stephens; Hudson, Dan Delehanty; New Port Richey, Tom Brown, Jerry Columbus, Alfred Martinez and Richard Scarpato; Oldsmar, Louis Falco; Pinellas Park, Bob Jilek; Port Richey, Don Robinson; Saint Petersburg, Bill Baker, Spencer Blydenburgh, Jr., and John Sardin, Jr.; South Pasadena, Jack Gose, and Tarpon Springs, Pauline Glidden.

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INVITED FAMILY MEMBERS AND GUESTS (10)

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Holiday, Dorothy Stephens; Hudson, Joan Delehanty and Evangeline Ritchie; New Port Richey, Eugenia Columbus and Helen Nicosia; Oldsmar, Louise Falco; Port Richey, Henry Brown; St. Petersburg, Patricia Blydenburgh; Tarpon Springs, Richard Coultes; and Invited Guest Speaker Doug Duncan, Metro Crime Prevention of Florida, from Tarpon Springs, FL.

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STATE RETIREE CHAPTER EXEC. BOARD

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Jack Gose, President So. Pasadena 727-343-2998
Valentine Serpico, VP Ft. Lauderdale 954-396-4217
Dave Bernstein, LegislativeDir Tampa 813-839-4233
Mario G. Miceli, Sec-Trs., Clearwater 727-446-4781
J.C. Wise, Health Plan Dir, Tampa 813-289-0382
Beth Cramer, Benefits Dir Cape Coral 239-242-9133
Charlie Redd, Trustee Cocoa 321-632-2898
Pedro Torres, Trustee Miami 305-251-7938
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STATE RETIREE CHAPTER ADDITIONAL OFFICERS

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John Sardin, Jr., Historian St. Pete 727-347-5687

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> HAPPY MOTHERS DAY - MAY 13, 2007<

> HAPPY FATHERS DAY - JUNE 17, 2007<

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The Editor reserves the right to edit articles submitted for publication as needed for space and shall appreciate any helpful ideas you may wish to share with me. Contact Jack Gose, Editor, at the Pinellas Park, Fl. office address, or phone 727-520-7300, E-Mail: Jak.Gose@Excite.com or phone me 727-343-2998 at home. Editors, get New Life as 121 Editors accomplished by adding our Suncoast Retirees Chapter News publication to their APWU Area Local/Local newsletter PPA Editor mailing list!

FREE RETIREE CHAPTER LUNCHEON & $25.00 CASH DOOR PRIZES, WEST PALM BEACH, FL., WED. MAY 9, 2007

An APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter FREE LUNCHEON will be given to each Retiree Chapter member paying APWU Retiree union dues of $2.00 month or $24.00 year to the National APWU Retirees Department and one guest attending the semi-annual APWU of Florida Retirees Chapter Luncheon to be held in the Veranda Restaurant, Hilton Palm Beach Airport Hotel, 150 Australian Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL 33406 adjacent to I-95 Exit marked Southern Boulevard (U.S. Hwy 98) from 12 NOON to 1:15 p.m. on Wednesday, May 9, 2007. The FREE luncheon includes food, taxes, and gratuity for each APWU Retiree Chapter Member and one spouse or family member, limited to two (2) FREE luncheons for each Chapter member.

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Up to five (5) $25.00 CASH DOOR PRIZES will be awarded to the first five (5) lucky Chapter Retirees signing in at the Chapter Luncheon who pay Retiree union dues to the National APWU in Washington, D.C., according to Jack Gose, Chapter President. APWU Florida Chapter HAPPY FOLDERS chock full of interesting trivia and news articles will be given out to all in attendance at the Retirees luncheon. Everyone is Invited to share the camaraderie of the Young Retiree Leaders who have belonged to the APWU most of their career working years, and who are committed to lifelong involvement in the Labor movement, helping others and teaching the Reasons for Paying Your Dues!

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An APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter Executive Board meeting of Retiree Chapter Officers will be held in the Hilton Veranda Restaurant Private Dining Area (PDR) at 11 am preceding the Luncheon, to discuss and plan for future Florida State Retiree Chapter activities in 2007. A motion was unanimously passed at the Retirees Executive Board meeting in Fort Myers in October, 2006 to send two (2) Retiree Chapter Officer/Delegates to the National APWU Retirees Department Conference, to be held at the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel in Las Vegas, NV from Mon., Nov. 5 thru Thurs., Nov. 8, 2007, to ensure having two Delegates with voice and vote at the Retirees Conference and Clerk, Maintenance, and Motor Vehicle Service Craft Conferences.

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The APWU of Florida Spring Educational Seminar begins on Thurs., May 10 thru Sat., May 12, 2007 at the Hilton Palm Beach Airport Hotel in West Palm Beach where the semi-annual conclave is to be held for educational classes arranged by Pete Trunzo, Education Director, for active and retiree APWU members. Check elsewhere in the Florida Postal Worker monthly newsletter for a list of classes and instructors, or go online to www.apwuflorida.org to get the information. Communication and Education should be Priority One for everyone!

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APWU of Florida special group single/double room rate is $119.00 nite, plus 11.5 % taxes. Phone the Hilton Palm Beach Airport Hotel at 1-800-443-3545 toll free or 1-561-684-9400 to reserve your room. In order to receive the group rate, members must indicate the group name and make reservations by April 30, 2007. Reservations must be guaranteed with a major credit card or check mailed in advance for first night room charge. Hotel check-in is 4 pm and check-out is 11 am, and baggage storage is available. The Palm Beach Hilton is a Smoke Free Facility with all indoor facilities and sleeping room accommodations designated non-smoking areas. Guests are permitted to smoke by the outdoor poolside/tiki bar. Complimentary self-parking is available.

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NEW APWU OF FLORIDA RETIREE PARADISE WEBSITE A HIT!
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Jack Gose, President of the APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter and Editor of the amazing new Retiree Paradise website online at www.retireeparadise.blogspot.com announced that a FREE website button named “Stat Counter,” which was added to the popular Retirees webpage has recorded hundreds of hits in the first week of operation. Go on the internet to www.statcounter.com if you are interested in adding a little punch to your life. The invisible Web Tracker and Hit Counter is Fantabulous!
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FLARA ANNUAL STATE CONVENTION SET FOR FLORIDA HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER, ORLANDO, FL., JUNE 3-5, 2007
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It is a pleasure to invite all 3000 APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter union dues paying Retiree members, Retiree delegates, active APWU dues paying officers and members, and family members to the Florida Alliance for Retired Americans (FLARA) 2007 Annual Convention and Quarterly Board of Directors meeting to be held on Sunday, June 3 thru Tuesday, June 5, 2007 at the FLORIDA HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTER, 1500 Sand Lake Road, Orlando, FL 32809. Hotel check-in on Sun., June 3 is 3 pm. Your departure check-out time is 12 noon on Wednesday, June 6, 2007.

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The Florida Hotel and Conference Center room rate for FLARA members is $89.00 per night for single or double room, plus 12.5 % taxes. When making your reservations, please call toll-free 1-800-588-4656 OR 1-407-859-1500 and ask for the FLARA special group rate. The $5.00 day hotel service fee for parking is included in the group rate.

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The registration fee for the Convention is $80.00 per person. Any registered delegate wishing to bring a guest to the prepaid meals should register their guest at $60.00 each. If you are interested, contact Yvonne Garrity, Executive Director, at the FLARA office in Wellington, Fl. by phone at 561-792-8799 to register and receive Convention materials and an updated agenda. Submit your registration form along with your payment made payable to “FLARA” to: FLARA, 12773 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 211, Wellington, FL 33414. Registration forms and fees must be received by FLARA by May 18, 2007 to process your credentials and better plan for a successful convention.

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Many well known political and union leaders are invited to attend this annual event. Resolutions will be offered to oppose the Privatization of the U.S. Postal Service, Retirement benefits, and the Social Security Program entitlements for all Americans. Go to www.flara.org for info about FLARA and www.retiredamericans.org to join 3.2 million other Retirees.

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At this Convention, in addition to the election of Officers and Board Members, any proposed changes to the FLARA Constitution and By-Laws will be discussed and voted upon by the convention body. It is important that all Board Members, Club, and Individual members be in attendance for this discussion and action. APWU is one of 22 unions affiliated with FLARA in the State of Florida!

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All FLARA club/chapter dues must be current in order for clubs/chapters to have proper voting status. If you have not sent in your chapter or individual dues, please do so immediately. If you have any questions, ask to speak with Tony Fransetta, President, FLARA, by phone at 561-792-8799. As the elected FLARA 2nd Vice President, I look forward to meeting with you and your family in Orlando, FL on June 3rd thru 5th, 2007. We Love You!

SUNCOAST RETIREE CHAPTER NEWS MARCH-APRIL, 2007 EDITION! FLARA LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE AT HOLIDAY INN, TALLAHASSEE, FL. MARCH 21-22, 2007

NEW RETIREE WEBSITE LAUNCHED to access & share info: www.retireeparadise.blogspot.com

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VOLUME 10, NUMBER 2 MAR.-APR., 2007
A publication of the Suncoast Area Local, APWU, AFL-CIO, serving over 720 APWU Retiree Chapter Dues Paying Members and their families living in zip codes 337 and 346 along the Gulf Coast of Florida and a Proud Member of APWU National Postal Press Association, Florida Postal Press Association, National Alliance for Retired Americans, Florida Alliance for Retired Americans, and West Central Florida, Federation of Labor, Central Labor Council. The Florida Suncoast Retiree Chapter was chartered by the National APWU in November, 1998. Our APWU Retiree Newsletter is the first published and mailed via the U.S. Postal Service and on the Worldwide Internet in the Nation and we really do care! Contact us when in need of a lifeline. Life is full of wonderful surprises. What a great feeling to live in Florida! Never any local or state APWU Retiree union dues to pay!

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EASTER EGG PICNIC, FREEDOM LAKE PARK, PINELLAS PARK, 12 NOON-3 PM SUN., APR 1

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FLARA EXECUTIVE BOARD & LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE TALLAHASSEE, FL. AT THE HOLIDAY INN, MAR 21-22, 2007

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All 3000 APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter Officers, Members, and Families are invited to the annual Florida Alliance for Retired Americans (FLARA) Legislative Conference and Executive Board meeting on Wed., March 21 thru Thurs., March 22, 2007 to be held in the Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites, 2725 Graves Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32303, located near Exit 199 from Interstate 10, then go north on Monroe St./US Hwy 27.
The FLARA group hotel room rate is $69.00 to $129.00 night sgl/dbl, depending on building location, plus 11.5 % tax for FLARA members. Please phone 1-850-536-2000 or toll-free 1-800-345-8082 to ask for the FLARA special group rate Code “FAR,” with check in on Tue., March 20 after 4 pm. Check out time is 11 am. FLARA will have a full 2-day agenda with luncheon at the Holiday Inn.
Registration fee is $80.00 for members and $60.00 for guests, phone 1-561-792-8799.
FLARA will have meetings from 9 am to 5 pm on Wed., Mar. 21 and Thur., Mar. 22 to include special invited elected officials and legislators from the national and state scenes and guest speakers covering Retiree issues such as Social Security, Medicare, Prescription Drugs, Medicaid, Taxes, Housing, and Insurance. Our APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter and APWU Local Retiree Chapter officers, members and families are urged to attend these action meetings!
Phone Jack Gose, FLARA 2nd Vice President, at 727-343-2998 or send E-mail to jak.gose@excite.com for more information.

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APWU OF FL STATE RETIREE CHAPTER EB AND MEMBER LUNCHEON WED., MAY 9, 2007 AT HILTON HOTEL, W. PALM BEACH

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An APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter FREE LUNCHEON is scheduled in the Veranda Restaurant, Hilton Palm Beach Airport Hotel, 150 Australian Av, West Palm Beach, FL 33406 on Wednesday, May 9, 2007 from 12 noon to 1:15 pm for APWU of Florida Retiree Chapter dues paying members and family. The FREE luncheon includes food, taxes, and gratuity for each APWU Retiree Chapter Member and one spouse or family member, limited to two (2) FREE luncheons for each Chapter member.
Up to five (5) $25.00 CASH DOOR PRIZES will be awarded to the first five (5) lucky Retirees who pay $24.00 year union dues to the National APWU Retirees Dept. signing in at the luncheon according to Jack Gose, Chapter President. APWU Retiree HAPPY folders chock full of interesting trivia and news articles will be given out to all in attendance at the Retirees luncheon.
The APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter Executive Board will meet before the luncheon at 11 am to discuss and plan for future Retiree activities in 2007.
APWU of Florida group single/dbl room rate is $119.00 nite plus 11.5 % taxes. Call the Hilton Palm Beach Airport Hotel at 1-800-443-3545 toll free or 1-561-684-9400 to reserve your room. Check in is 4 pm and checkout is 11 am.
APWU of Florida Spring Seminar educational classes for active and retiree members are scheduled for Thursday, May 10 through Sat., May 12, 2007 in the same hotel.

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FREE LUNCHEON TO FIRST FORTY (40) CHAPTER MEMBERS/FAMILY MEMBERS TO SIGN IN ON ATTENDANCE SHEET ON TUESDAY, MAR. 27, 2007 AT 11:00 A.M. AT BUDDY FREDDYS BUFFET RESTAURANT LOCATED IN HOLIDAY, FLORIDA AT 1150 U. S. HIGHWAY 19, ABOUT 100 YARDS NORTH OF THE PINELLAS/PASCO COUNTY LINE.

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Florida Suncoast Retiree Chapter members/family members, excluding Chapter Officers, can win the Face Card $25.00 Cash Door Prize at the regular Chapter meeting on Tuesday, Mar. 27, 2007 in Holiday, Florida.
Doug Duncan, Metro Crime Prevention of Florida, will speak on "A Crime Happens Every Minute!"
All active and retired members/family guests are invited to all our Chapter meetings. Retiree Chapter members attending their first Chapter meeting shall be awarded a $10.00 Sign In Bonus Cash Prize, limited to the first five (5) to arrive at each meeting, and also shall receive a FREE National APWU Survivors’ Family Booklet worth $3.00.
One hundred ninety-three (193) persons have signed in and attended our meetings to date since 1998! Please join us and pick up your prize! Stay Young, Alert, & Healthy!

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EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETS 10 AM TO 11 AM
LUNCHEON FROM 11 AM TO 12:30 PM
REGULAR MEETING FROM 12:30 PM - 1 PM

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FSRC FOUNDERS 2006-2007 EXECUTIVE BOARD
Jack Gose, President 727-343-2998
Dan Delehanty, First Vice-President 727-862-2923
Janet Hamlin, 2nd Vice President 727-379-0032
Jerry Columbus, Secretary 727-372-9855
John Sardin, Jr., Treasurer 727-347-5687
Bob Jilek, Trustee Chair 727-535-2409
Mike Sullivan, Local Union President 727-520-7300

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FSRC FOUNDERS 2006-2007 ADDTL. OFFICERS
John R. Stephens, Health Plan Rep. 727-934-4033 Spencer Blydenburgh, Trustee/Mbr Dir 727-544-6536
Mario G. Miceli, Legislative Director 727-446-4781
Alfred DiServio, Historian & AFL-CIO 727-372-9219
Tom Brown, Trustee 727-847-6987
Skip Lilly, Sergeant-at-Arms 727-546-4206
Don Robinson, Retiree CLC Delegate 727-819-8543
Rutha Gavin, Chaplain 727-894-1349
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SUNCOAST AREA LOCAL, APWU
7195 – 49th Street,
PINELLAS PARK, FL. 33781
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SERGEANT AT ARMS 2007 LISTEN UP!

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The below twenty-eight (28) Florida Suncoast Retiree Chapter Members, Family, & Guests, attended the entertaining Retiree Chapter luncheon and business meeting held on Tuesday, January 16, 2007 at Buddy Freddys Buffet Restaurant in Holiday, FL. 34691.

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FLA. SUNCOAST RET. CHAPTER MEMBERS (18)
Clearwater, Mario Miceli; Gulfport, Tony Fiore; Holiday, Susan Gilley and John R. Stephens; Hudson, Dan Delehanty; New Port Richey, Tom Brown, Jerry Columbus, Alfred DiServio, Alfred Martinez and Frederick Roth; Port Richey, Joseph A. Mazzella and Don Robinson; Saint Petersburg, Bill Baker, Spencer Blydenburgh, Jr., and John Sardin, Jr.; South Pasadena, Jack Gose, and Tarpon Springs, Pauline Glidden and Jim Glover.

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INVITED FAMILY MEMBERS AND GUESTS (10)
Clearwater, Bonnie Miceli; Holiday, Lucia Steele and Dorothy Stephens; Hudson, Joan Delehanty; New Port Richey, Eugenia Columbus and Helen Nicosia; Port Richey, Henry Brown; St. Petersburg, Patricia Blydenburgh; Tarpon Springs, Richard Coultes; and Invited Guest Speaker Jennifer Hess, Tampa Bay Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, from New Port Richey.

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STATE RETIREE CHAPTER EXEC. BOARD
Jack Gose, President So. Pasadena 727-343-2998
Valentine Serpico, VP Ft. Lauderdale 954-396-4217
Dave Bernstein, LegislativeDir Tampa 813-839-4233
Mario G. Miceli, Sec-Trs., Clearwater 727-446-4781
J.C. Wise, Health Plan Dir, Tampa 813-289-0382
Beth Cramer, Benefits Dir Cape Coral 239-242-9133
Charlie Redd, Trustee Cocoa 321-632-2898
Pedro Torres, Trustee Miami 305-251-7938
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STATE RETIREE CHAPTER ADDITIONAL OFFICERS
John Sardin, Jr., Historian St. Pete 727-347-5687
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The Editor reserves the right to edit articles submitted for publication as needed for space and shall appreciate any helpful ideas you may wish to share with me. Contact Jack Gose, Editor, at the Pinellas Park, Fl. office address, or phone 727-520-7300, E-Mail: Jak.Gose@Excite.com or phone me 727-343-2998 at home. Editors, get New Life as 121 APWU National Postal Press Association Editors accomplished by adding our Suncoast Retirees Chapter News publication to their APWU Area Local/Local newsletter PPA Editor mailing list!

2007 HOW TO ORGANIZE AN APWU AREA LOCAL/LOCAL RETIREE CHAPTER

Which APWU Area Local/Local in the state of Florida will receive the next APWU Area Local/Local Retiree Chapter Charter from National APWU Headquarters in Washington, D.C. to join Broward County AL, Miami AL, Tampa AL, and Suncoast AL in the APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter. We offer a Challenge to twenty-one (21) other Florida Area Locals/Locals with over ten (10) National APWU Retiree $24.00 year or $2.00 month dues paying members currently which have no chartered APWU Area Local/Local Retiree Chapters in their areas, sorted in alpha sequence below, to ORGANIZE an APWU Retiree Chapter as soon as possible:

Central Florida AL; Citrus Center AL; Daytona Beach AL; Florida Keys AL; Jacksonville BMC Local; Manasota Local; Manatee AL; Melbourne AL; Mid-Florida AL; North Central Florida AL; Northeast Florida AL; Palm Beach AL; Panama City Local; Pensacola AL; Playground AL; Sarasota Local; South County AL; Southwest Florida AL; Space Coast AL; Tallahassee Local; and Vero Beach Local.

We recommend any APWU Local/Area Local President interested in organizing an APWU Area Local/Local Retiree Chapter in their Area Local/Local, to contact the National APWU Retirees Department and request the information needed below to begin the search, or go online to the National APWU Retirees Department website apwu.org/retiree by clicking on the below link: http://www.apwu.org/dept/retiree/retformchapter.htm to find additional Retiree information in order to take action and get the ball rolling:

(1) Request a Model APWU Area Local/Local Retiree Chapter Constitution and By-Laws and sample copies of Retiree Chapter Constitution and By-Laws adopted by other APWU chartered Area Local/Local Retiree Chapters.

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(2) Request a Copy of APWU Area Local/Local Retiree Chapter membership names, residence address, and zip code by alpha and zip code sequence.
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(3) Pass a Resolution at an Executive Board meeting of the active APWU Area Local/Local in support of establishing an APWU Retiree Chapter.

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(4) Mail a letter to all the APWU Retirees paying $24.00 year or $2.00 month union dues to the National APWU Retirees Department at their home address where they reside, or write an article in the APWU Area Local/Local newsletter mailed to the Retirees, inviting them to an ORGANIZATION meeting and FREE luncheon of the Area Local/Local to create an APWU Area Local/Local Retiree Chapter.

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(5) The APWU Area Local/Local Retiree Organization Committee should take Retiree Officer nominations from the floor at the organization meeting and/or accept Retiree member volunteers. However, the President of the APWU Area Local/Local appoints all the founding Retiree Officer Executive Board members, until the first Chapter election of new Retiree Chapter officers voted on by the Retiree dues paying membership.

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(6) Mail the interim list of appointed Retiree Chapter officers and completed Retiree Chapter Constitution and By-Laws to the National APWU Retirees Director, APWU Headquarters, 1300 L Street, NW, Washington, DC 20005 for transmittal to the National APWU Secretary-Treasurer's office for charter approval by the National APWU President and Secretary-Treasurer.

According to Article 16, Section 2 (i) of the National APWU Constitution and By-Laws, ten (10) or more APWU Retirees Department members, residing within local or area local geographical jurisdiction, may form an Area Local/Local Retiree Chapter.

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Now that everyone knows the ABC’s of organizing an APWU Area Local/Local Retiree Chapter, let’s celebrate and start organizing. With 3,000 APWU of Florida Retiree Chapter dues paying members, many Retirees are just sitting at home waiting for the phone to ring or get a letter in the mail announcing an Area Local/Local Organizing Committee meeting to create a new Local Union Retiree Chapter.

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Contact Jack Gose at 727-343-2998, E-mail jak.gose@excite.com and/or go online to www.retireeparadise.blogspot.com for more information. We don’t claim to be an expert, but WE LOVE TO ORGANIZE!

APWU OF FLORIDA STATE RETIREES CHAPTER FREE LUNCHEON SET FOR HILTON PALM BEACH AIRPORT RESTAURANT IN WEST PALM BEACH, FL ON WED., MAY 9, 2007!

An APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter FREE luncheon for each Retiree Chapter member paying Retiree union dues to the National APWU Retirees Dept. of $24.00 year or $2.00 month and one guest, limit of two per family, attending the Retirees Luncheon to be held at the Hilton Palm Beach Airport Restaurant, 150 Australian Ave., West Palm Beach, FL 33406 from 12 NOON to 1:15 p.m. on Wednesday, May 9, 2007, the day before the APWU of Florida Spring Seminar begins on Thurs., May 10 thru Sat., May 12, 2007 at the same Hotel where the semi-annual conclave is held for educational classes for active and retiree APWU members.

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Retiree Happy folders will be distributed to all those attending, and everyone is invited! Up to five (5) $25.00 Cash Door Prizes will be awarded to the first five APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter members signing in and attending the Retirees Luncheon. Enjoy friendly conversation and learn the secrets of longer life!

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An APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter Executive Board meeting will be held in the Restaurant Private Dining Area (PDR) at 11 am to 12 noon preceding the Luncheon, and everyone is invited to listen and participate in the discussion on motions brought before the Executive Board. The Hilton is located west of the intersection of I-95 and Southern Blvd (U.S. Hwy 98), and near the southeast corner of Palm Beach International Airport. Palm Beach and the beaches are only 3 miles distant.

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The Hilton Hotel telephone number to phone for room reservations is 1-800-443-3545, and APWU of Florida special group room rates are $119.00 Single/Double night, plus 11.5 taxes. To get the group rate, reservations must be made by April 30, 2007. Complimentary self-parking is available, and all indoor facilities and sleeping accommodations are designated non-smoking areas. Guests are permitted to smoke by the Hilton poolside/tiki bar. See Ya in West Palm Beach, Baby! We Love You!

Jack Gose, President, APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter, AFL-CIO

WHERE DO APWU RETIREE CHAPTER DUES PAYING MEMBERS LIVE? HOW TO ORGANIZE AN APWU RETIREE CHAPTER!

Which state will receive the next National APWU Charter as an APWU State Retiree Chapter to join Florida, Ohio, Michigan, and California?

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The below Retiree Chapter state membership figures sorted by highest number of Area Local/Local Chapters and alpha are estimates based on data we obtained a couple years ago from the National APWU on the 40,000 + APWU Retiree dues paying membership, updated to include the number of APWU Area Local/Local Retiree Chapters listed in parentheses in 17 states:

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OH 2000+ (7); FL 3000+ (4); MI 1300+ (4); CA 2700+ (2); IL 1600+ (2); MD/DC 600 (2); NY 4000+ (2); NC 1200+ (2); PA 2300+ (2); GA 900+ (1); IN 850+ (1); IA 650+(1); KS 400+ (1); MO 1000+ (1); NE 400+ (1); TX 2500+ (1); VA 800+ (1).

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We offer a Challenge to Organize an APWU Retiree Chapter ASAP to the other Thirty-three (33) States, sorted in alpha sequence below, which have no chartered APWU Area Local/Local Retiree Chapters currently:

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AL 460+; AK 65+; AR 380+; AZ 650+; CO 450+; CT 570+; DE 110+; HI 65+; ID 200+; KY 550+; LA 700+; ME 260+; MA 800+; MN 800+; MS 400+; MT 200+; NV 400+; NH 300+; NJ 2000+; NM 50+; ND 130+; OK 500+; OR 400+; RI 150+; SC 500+; SD 200+; TN 700+; UT 160+; VT 140+; WA 550+; WV 400+; WI 950+; and WY 130+.

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PR 100+; VI 40+.

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We recommend any APWU State President and/or APWU Local/Area Local President interested in organizing an APWU Area Local/Local Retiree Chapter and/or APWU State Retiree Chapter in their Area Local/Local or State, to contact the National APWU Retirees Department and request the information needed to begin the search, or go online to the National APWU Retirees Department website apwu.org/retiree by clicking on the below link: http://www.apwu.org/dept/retiree/retformchapter.htm

for additional Retiree information in order to take action and get the ball rolling:

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(1) Model APWU Area Local/Local or State Retiree Chapter Constitution and By-Laws and sample copies of Retiree Chapter Constitution and By-Laws adopted by other APWU chartered Retiree Chapters.

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(2) Copy of APWU Area Local/Local or State Retiree Chapter membership names, residence address, and zip code by alpha and zip code sequence.

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(3) Pass a Resolution at an Executive Board meeting of the active APWU Area Local/Local or active APWU State organization in support of establishing an APWU Retiree Chapter.

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(4) Mail a letter to all the APWU Retirees paying $24.00 year or $2.00 month union dues at the National APWU Retirees Department to their home address where they reside, or write an article in the APWU Area Local/Local or APWU State organization newsletter mailed to the Retirees, inviting them to an organization meeting and FREE luncheon of the Area Local/Local or APWU State organization to create an APWU Area Local/Local Retiree Chapter or APWU State Retiree Chapter.

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(5) The APWU Area Local/Local or State Retiree Chapter Organization Committee should take Retiree Officer nominations from the floor at the organization meeting and/or accept Retiree member volunteers. However, the President of the APWU Area Local/Local or APWU State organization appoints all the founding Retiree Officer Executive Board members and other officers until the Chapter election of new Retiree Chapter officers voted on by the Retiree dues paying membership.

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(6) Mail the interim list of appointed Retiree Chapter officers and completed Chapter Constitution and By-Laws to the National APWU Retirees Director, APWU Headquarters, 1300 L Street, NW, Washington, DC 20005 for transmittal to the National APWU Secretary-Treasurer's office for charter approval by the National APWU President and Secretary-Treasurer.

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According to Article 16, Section 2 (i) of the National APWU Constitution and By-Laws, ten (10) or more APWU Retirees Department members, residing within local or area local geographical jurisdiction, may form an Area Local/Local Retiree Chapter.

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The ongoing National APWU policy has been that after three (3) APWU Area Local/Local Retiree Chapters have been chartered in any state, an APWU State Chapter may be formed in that state.

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Jack Gose, President and Editor, APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter, AFL-CIO

NATIONAL AFL-CIO WEBSITE RECOGNIZES RETIREE PARADISE, NEW WEBSITE ONLINE

NATIONAL AFL-CIO WEBPAGE RECOGNIZES NEW “RETIREE PARADISE” WEBSITE!

An innovative Retiree Website online publication named Retiree Paradise was created for the APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter, APWU, AFL-CIO and launched on November 15, 2006 at www.retireeparadise.blogspot.com to serve over 3,000 APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter ACTIVE AND RETIREE dues paying members and their families residing in the State of Florida zip code 320 thru 349 and wherever they move out of state.

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The National AFL-CIO website recognized the new APWU Retiree website in an article on Jan. 3, 2007, and Postal Reporter.com and 21st Century Postal Worker.com provided links from their sites to the Retiree Paradise website.

New policies grandfathered in from the National APWU Retirees Department implemented in October, 2006 require that any APWU Retiree member paying $24.00 year or $2.00 month to the National APWU Retirees Department in Washington, D.C. must be listed as a Chapter member from the APWU Local Union they were a member of prior to retirement from the U.S. Postal Service, NO MATTER WHERE THEY LIVE IN THE WORLD!

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The only exception would be if they requested in writing to be transferred to a Retiree Chapter in the state where they have moved to, such as Florida!

Jack Gose, President of the State Retiree Chapter, is the first Editor of the new Retiree Newsletter Website Online named “RETIREE PARADISE.” The State Retiree Chapter Constitution & By-Laws address the need for a Retiree Editor to communicate and share information with APWU active and retiree members and their families, and the website was created FREE using Blogger Beta by Jack Gose online at www.retireeparadise.blogspot.com for the benefit of everyone to access and share info.

Our APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter Online Newsletter leads the nation in new ideas, and is a Proud member of the APWU National Postal Press Association, Florida Postal Press Association, and Florida Alliance for Retired Americans. The State Retiree Chapter was chartered in March, 2002 and this fantastic original Retiree website is a Work in Progress for anyone who expresses a Labor of Love, which is what Unionism is All About. No State APWU Retiree union dues to pay!

You will find many interesting Retiree articles and photos on this new website to titillate your imagination. If you have any questions or comments concerning RETIREE PARADISE, contact Jack Gose, President and Editor, at my home phone 727-343-2998 or E-mail me at www.jak.gose@excite.com with your articles, suggestions, or comments.

JOHN SARDIN, JR. APPOINTED AS CHAPTER HISTORIAN

Jack Gose, President, APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter, AFL-CIO, has appointed John Sardin, Jr. to the newly created post of Historian, which position was unanimously approved by the Chapter Executive Board meeting on Wed., Oct. 25, 2006 in Fort Myers, FL. John was born in 1922, and he is enjoying his 64 years of labor union involvement. He is a highly respected individual serving as the first APWU Vice President at Large on the Florida AFL-CIO Executive Board for several years, and is currently the Treasurer of the Florida Suncoast Retiree Chapter, Suncoast Area Local #1228 covering 337 and 346 zip code areas of Florida.

The CHAPTER HISTORIAN shall maintain an accurate historical record of the APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter, AFL-CIO, prior to and after the issuance of a founding charter granted by the American Postal Workers Union on March 15, 2002, and to keep up with the historical facts of all National APWU, National AFL-CIO, APWU of Florida State, Florida AFL-CIO, National Alliance for Retired Americans, and Florida Alliance for Retired Americans labor related events. He will share with APWU Active and Retiree dues paying officers, stewards, members, and their families by timely distribution and publication of informative, interesting historical articles in the Florida Postal Worker and at conventions, conferences, and seminars.

REVIEW OF 2006 EVENTS AND PREVIEW OF 2007 ACTION

Elizabeth Cramer, APWU Southern Region Retiree National Convention Delegate, Steve Cramer, Dave and Phyllis Bernstein, Richard and Arlene Lambrigger, and Jack Gose participated in an open luncheon and business meeting at Holiday Inn Select in Ft. Myers. Beth Cramer wants everyone to know she attended all the active and retiree meetings at the National APWU Convention in Philadelphia in August.

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A motion was unanimously passed for the Chapter to send up to two (2) Chapter Officer/Delegates to the National APWU Retiree Conference and Clerk Craft Conference to be held in Las Vegas, NV at the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel from Mon., Nov. 5 thru Thur., Nov. 8, 2007 to ensure having two Delegates with voice and vote at both events.

Jack Gose, Dave and Phyllis Bernstein joined over 100 other Postal Workers on Thur., Oct. 26, 2006 to picket the Main Post Office in downtown Ft. Myers, opposing the consolidation plans for 139 post offices of the U.S. Postal Service, which actions will slow down the service and eliminate postmarks on local mailings, including St. Petersburg, Daytona Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Ft. Myers. The message was delivered by APWU active and retiree marchers loud and clear, “DON’T LET OUR MAIL SERVICE FALL APART,” as TV, Cable, Radio, and Newspaper Media on the scene recorded APWU History for the Ages!

The Chapter encourages all active APWU Area Local/Local Executive Boards and active membership to affiliate with Florida Alliance for Retired Americans (FLARA) at 25 cents per member, per year, with a minimum of twenty (20) members or $5.00 year dues to receive a charter from FLARA.

Jack Gose distributed a Happy Folder containing an APPLICATION FOR AFFILIATION WITH FLARA to each of the APWU Area Local/Local Presidents attending the Local Presidents Conference all day meeting on Wed., Oct. 25, 2006. The APWU leaders of today need to get involved in politics and progressive legislation to protect and preserve our jobs, active and retiree benefit programs!

The 3-hour Retirement Class at the APWU of Florida Fall Seminar on Sat., Oct. 28, 2006 in Ft. Myers had a Wonderful Surprise Turnout with thirty (30) signing in, about half coming from Southwest Florida Area Local and the rest hailing from ten (10) other local unions. The expected retirement years offered by the attendees ranged from 2007 to 2040.

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Linda Springer, Director of Office of Personnel Management, informed us that sixty percent (60%) of the Federal Employee workforce will become eligible to retire within the next ten (10) years, and forty percent (40 %) will actually retire as soon as they become eligible. Doug Holbrook, National APWU Retiree Director, who taught the retirement seminar, states that 137,000 APWU craft members will become eligible to retire by 2016.

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My advice is for everyone to sign up for the next APWU OF FLORIDA SPRING 3-DAY RETIREMENT COUNSELOR SEMINAR to be taught in April, 2007. Early Outs are always an Option!

National APWU officer elections are to be held in 2007, and over 40,000 APWU Retiree dues paying members will get to vote for their National APWU Retiree Director for the first time as a result of Delegate Convention action. Several Retirees will be running for the coveted top spot, and we are already getting feelers from potential candidates who are jockeying for position to win the $90,000. salary annually plus benefits and travel expenses.

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The National APWU Southern Region Convention Delegate elected spot is going to attract several notable candidates as well we hear. We wish all the candidates the best, and hope the winners will lead us to greater progress in 2007.

OPM ANNUITY, SOCIAL SECURITY COLA, AND MEDICARE INCREASES IN 2007

Federal retirees covered by Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) and regular military retirees will receive a 3.3 percent COST OF LIVING (COLA) increase in 2007. Employees who retired under the new Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) and are 62 or older will receive 2.3 percent COLA. There are about 2.4 million federal retirees worldwide.

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Social Security checks for nearly l49 million retirees are going up 3.3 percent in 2007, an average of $33.00 per month. The 3.3 percent hike compares to 4.1 percent benefit rise in 2006, the biggest increase in 15 years. One-third (1/3) of retirees rely on Social Security for ninety (90) percent or more of their total income.

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Part of the gain will be eaten up by a $5.00 jump in Medicare Part B Health Insurance from $88.50 to $93.50 monthly, a rise of 5.6 percent.

Our entire APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter Executive Board members wish everyone smooth sailing, and a HAPPY and HEALTHY NEW YEAR in 2007!

Jack Gose, President, APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter.

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(POST SCRIPT: The below news was received after the above article was submitted unedited to the Florida Postal Worker for publication.)

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Our thanks to the National APWU Communications Department managed by Sally Davidow and National APWU Retirees Department directed by Douglas Cowan Holbrook, for providing a link from the National APWU website "State and Local Links" webpage and a link from the National APWU Retiree Dept. website "State and Local Retiree Chapters webpage to the "Retiree Paradise" website of the APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter at www.retireeparadise.blogspot.com to access and share late breaking retiree news.

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We give our thanks also to the Suncoast Area Local #1228 of Florida Office Manager Diane McDaniel for setting up a link from their Area Local Union Retiree webpage to the new Florida State Retiree website "Retiree Paradise," and we welcome any other APWU, AFL-CIO, union local or state organization in the world, including active or retiree union dues paying members or their family members who wish to link up with our innovative "Retiree Paradise" internet online website to go to www.retireeparadise.blogspot.com and feel free to do so for access and sharing of up to date retirement information hot off the wires!

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Jack Gose, Editor and Webmaster

Jan 2007 FLARA Legislative Conference, Tallahassee, FL

2007 FLARA LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE & EB MTG IN TALLY MARCH 21-22, 2007!

All 3000 APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter Officers, Members, and Families are invited to the annual Florida Alliance for Retired Americans (FLARA) Legislative Conference and Executive Board meeting on Wed., March 21 thru Thurs., March 22, 2007 to be held in the Holiday Inn and Suites, 2725 Graves Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32303, near Exit 199 from I-10 go north on N. Monroe St. US 27.

The FLARA group hotel room rate is $69.00 to $129.00 night sgl/dbl, depending on building location, plus 11.5 % tax for FLARA members. Please phone 1-850-536-2000 or toll-free 1-800-345-8082 to ask for the FLARA special group rate, with check in on Tue., March 20 after 4 pm. Check out time is 11 am. FLARA will have a full 2-day agenda.

FLARA will have meetings from 9 am to 5 pm on Wed., Mar. 21 and Thur., Mar. 22 to include special invited elected officials and legislators from the national and state scenes and guest speakers covering Retiree issues such as Social Security, Medicare, Health Insurance, Prescription Drugs, Medicaid, and Housing. Our APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter and APWU Local Retiree Chapter officers, members and families are urged to attend these meetings!

For more info, phone Jack Gose, FLARA Vice President, at 727-343-2998!

2007 AN INNOVATIVE NEW RETIREE WEBSITE CREATED ON INTERNET

A new Retiree News Web publication named “Retiree Paradise,” was launched on November 15, 2006 by APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter to serve over 3,000 APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter retiree dues paying members and their families residing in the State of Florida zip code 320 thru 349 and wherever they move out of state.

New policies grandfathered in from the National APWU Retirees Department implemented in October, 2006 require that any APWU Retiree member paying $24.00 year or $2.00 month to the National APWU Retirees Department in Washington, D.C. must be listed as a Chapter member from the APWU Local Union they were a member of prior to retirement from the U.S. Postal Service, NO MATTER WHERE THEY LIVE IN THE WORLD!

The only exception in the future would be if they requested in writing to be transferred to a Retiree Chapter in the state where they have moved to, such as Florida!

Jack Gose, President of the State Retiree Chapter, is the first Editor of the new website. The State Retiree Chapter Constitution & By-Laws address the need for a Retiree Editor to communicate and share information with APWU active and retiree members and their families, and the website was created FREE online using Blogger Beta at www.retireeparadise.blogspot.com !

Any questions or comments, contact Jack Gose at my home phone 727-343-2998 or E-mail me at jak.gose@excite.com !

2007 NATIONAL AFL-CIO RECOGNIZES NEW RETIREE WEBSITE!

DIRECT ONLINE FROM AFL-CIO NEWS THAT WORKS NOW WEBPAGE!

LOTS TO SAY by Tula Connell, Jan 3, 2007 at www.afl-cio.org National AFL-CIO website in Washington, D.C. 20006.

The e-mailbag got pretty full over the holidays—just now catching up on your news and comments.

In the next few weeks, the AFL-CIO Now blog will introduce its first-ever comment section—allowing you to comment directly to blog posts and discuss issues among each other.

In the meantime, if you have news or comments, keep sending them to: blognews@aflcio.org.

Jack Gose of South Pasadena, Fla., tells us about a new website for Postal Workers (APWU) retirees and other retired union members.

APWU of Florida State Retiree Chapter, AFL-CIO, has created a new website named “Retiree Paradise” at http://www.retireeparadise.blogspot.com/ for AFL-CIO active and retiree members and their families to access and share retirement information.

As Brother Gose says:
When a union member retires from the workplace, everything that affects the retiree also affects the family members either directly or indirectly as well!

Congratulations to Brother Gose and all APWU retirees on this great move into the NetRoots!