SPRING 2018 President’s Message submitted by Jeri Meeks, 2017-2018 ASURA President Happy New Year to our retiree association members, board members and volunteers! What an interesting and thought-provoking year we’ve just had – politically and climate-wise. I look forward to staying engaged in the local and national conversation and making a difference where I can. We have a great year taking shape with instructive seminars, fun luncheons and local, state and international travel opportunities. Our Annual Meeting will be at the Phoenix Art Museum this year, giving us a chance to enjoy the museum as well as celebrate another successful year. ASURA will also continue to serve our community with book sales, an adopt-a-family program and video history projects. Please be sure to look through this issue of the Prime Times as well as visiting our website https://asura.asu.edu to keep current on what’s happening this spring. The ASURA Legislative Liaison team is gearing up for another busy legislative session. ASURA is again happy to support ABOR’s state funding investment model, focused on Arizona resident students. Our team will track bills introduced in this 53rd Legislature, Second Session that could change retirement system contributions and health care system options affecting state retirees. Our Legislative Liaisons will work to keep the membership involved in the legislative conversation this spring and look forward to hearing from our university and state representatives. How would you like to get involved? It’s a great way to stay in touch with university colleagues and meet new people. We have opportunities on our Executive Team and in many of our standing committees. We welcome your new ideas! I encourage you to expand your personal interests and passions by becoming involved in an ASURA committee. Please contact me directly if you would like to get involved: jeri.meeks@asu.edu. Inside This Issue Board of Directors & Other Volunteers 2 Need Help With Your Technology? 7 Polytechnic Campus Tour 11-12 ASURA Office Updates 3 ASURA Needs Your Old Books! 7 Stress Reduction in Retirement 12-13 Welcome New ASURA Members 3 Need to Update Your Address? 8 Spring 2018 Calendar of Events 13 Government Liaison’s Report 4 ASURA Board Member Elections 8 Spring 2018 Luncheon at Shalimar 13 Volunteers Needed 4 2018 Annual Meeting 8 ASURA Obituaries 14-15 Sun Devil Advocates - 2018 Legislative Breakfast 5 2017 Annual Tri-University Meeting 9 In Memory of Carolyn Lanners 15 Adopt-A-Family Program Update 9 Advertisements 16 Video History Project - Interviewing ASU Retirees 6 2017 Holiday Potluck & Bake Sale 10 ASU Staff Appreciation BBQs 6 2018 Open Enrollment Healthcare 11 ASURA BOARD OFFICERS President Secretary Vice President Jeri Meeks Betty Landon Tara Roesler ASURA Board of Directors Terms Expire April 2019 Terms Expire April 2020 Barry Bruns Bev Buddee Bob Francis Larry Mankin Connie McNeill Tony Brazil Jay Q. Butler Jeri Meeks Tara Roesler David Schwalm Betty Landon Bill Moor Don Nilsen Kathleen Renshaw Pat Schneider Ex-Officio Members Alumni Association — Rhonda McClintock Emeritus College Liaison — Don Nilsen Human Resources — Judy Cato University Club Liaison — Tara Roesler University Liaison — Stephanie Salazar University Senate — Tom Schildgen University Staff Council — Katie Aguilar ASURA Committees & Liaisons Event Committees: Events Committee Chair Barry McNeill Luncheons & Special Events Bonnie Scheall Seminars Bev Buddee Pre-retirement Seminars Trudy Perez Travel John Brock Finance & Fundraising Committees: Finance Bill Moor Book Donations Mary Stevens ASURA Office Staff Fund Raising To Be Determined Government & Health Insurance Liaisons: Government Liaison Council Jeri Meeks (Legislative) Dick Jacob (ASRS) Larry Carlson (ADOA) Health Insurance Liaison Council Larry Carlson (ADOA) Tara Roesler (ASRS) Membership/Communications Committee: E-News Barry McNeill Membership David Schwalm Newsletter (Prime Times) Jeannette Robson Obituaries Becky Reiss Website & Database Connie McNeill Arizona State University Retirees Association Prime Times Bill Moor ASURA Board Ex-Officio Members Terms Expire April 2018 Community Outreach: Adopt-A-Family Joan Leard Scholarship Sue Blumer, Joy Shearman Video History Project David Scheatzle Treasurer 2 Phone: (480) 965-7668 *** Fax: (480) 965-7807 Website: https://asura.asu.edu/ Location: Community Services Building, 200 E. Curry Rd., Room 201B, Tempe, AZ *** Best to call beforehand Business Operations Manager: Carolyn Minner Office Staff Coordinators: Linda Van Scoy, Nancy Lesko Technology Manager: Connie McNeill Office Hours: Spring 2018 Monday: Nanci Beardsley — (9:00am - noon) Jeannette Robson — (1:00 - 4:00pm) Tuesday: Nancy Lesko — (9:00am - noon) Linda VanScoy — (1:00 - 4:00pm) Wednesday: Tara Roesler — (9:00am - Noon) Bev Buddee — (1:00 - 4:00pm) Thursday: Bonnie Scheall — (9:00 am - Noon) Need Volunteer — (1:00 - 4:00pm) Friday: Closed All Day — (year round) Subs: Joan Leard, Dorothy Meunier, Helen Seaton, Linda Whatley Spring 2018 ASURA Office Updates submitted by Linda Van Scoy and Nancy Lesko, ASURA Office Coordinators We are happy to welcome Nanci Beardsley to the ASURA Office volunteer team. Nanci will fill the previously empty Monday morning shift — 9:00 a.m. to Noon. Nanci retired from the ASU College of Law in 2014. She loves having the time to spend with family and grandchildren. Reading is her first passion and daily retreat. She also enjoys painting, sewing, and getting together with friends. Nanci lives in Tempe with her 4-legged best friend Sasha, a fluffy little Malti-poo. Nanci Beardsley With Nanci’s addition to the staff we now have only one vacancy — Thursday afternoon from 1:00-4:00 p.m. Consider joining us in supporting the ASURA organization and filling this shift. It is generally quiet and a pleasant and fulfilling way to spend a few hours. If you are interested in obtaining more information about the office position, please phone the ASURA office at (480) 965-7668 or email Linda (lvs@asu.edu) or Nancy (nclesko@asu.edu). Linda Van Scoy Nancy Lesko Welcome New ASURA Members Elizabeth Allen Harl Alley Charles Arntzen Nancy Attwell Elizabeth Badalamenti Gillian Bailey Kari Barlow Tina Barrandey Manuel Barrera Kay Barror Roger Berger Peggy Bonds William Boyes Rosemarie Bradley Sarah Buel Eric Canku Kenneth Carl Gray Cavender John Cesta Elizabeth Chain Patricia Chan Douglas Chandler Arlene Chin Lawrence Clark Stanley Cloyd Lilliam Connell Sherrie Conner Cristi Coursen Katherine Crewe Lydia Dancel Carole Dempsey Anne Ecton Ira Ellman Bonnie Engel Cynthia Fark David Ferry Fumiko Foard Meg Gallagher-Sanders Carol Galluzzo-Knight Dennis Golabiewski Jiwan Goyal Karen Sue Gregorski Cory Hansen Mark Harms Dolores Hauptman Gerald Heydt Kathleen Holladay Jacki Houchens Marcie Hutchinson Bryan Jackson Marcia Jasper William Jenkins Rodger Johnson Daren Kahus Dean Kashiwagi Christine Klos Ann Koblitz Janina Kokins Philip Konomos John Kuiper Linda Kuiper Jesus Lacarra Janis Lacey Jane Lamal Gerri Lamb Anita Lambson Arizona State University Retirees Association Prime Times Elinor Large Bonnie Lawless Wendy Lichte Dennis Lieppert Janna Malkin Ashe Mardinly Rick Martorano Elizabeth Martos Robert Marzke Lawrence Mayer Steven McCann Kathleen McCoy Jon McMorris John Meraz John Meunier Gerald Miller Barbara Miroballi Monica Montalvo Rachel Montoya Alexander Munoz Christi Murrell Robert Muscari Diann Muzyka Frank Naley Richard Nosky Marlene Nunez Robert Oldani Simon Ortiz Ernie Pacheco Peggy Pate John Pickens Janice Pittsley Keith Roberts 3 Consuelo Romero Ann Ryan Irma Sandercock Thomas Schildgen Janneane Siegel Karen Silva Andrew Smith Ann Stanton Clyde Steinhilber Henry Stevens Kathryn Stoner Jean Stutz Virginia Sylvester Eric Thor Diane Thrailkill Barbara Tibbets Linda Vaughan Diane Venrick Retha Warnicke Paul Webb Janene Werner Mary Whelan Richard Whitehouse Jill Wilson Laurence Winer Nancy Winn Carlton Yoshioka David Young Robert Zaller Michael Zoldak Spring 2018 Government Liaison’s Report—Spring 2018 submitted by Jeri Meeks (registered lobbyist) • The 53rd Legislature, Second Session opened on January 8, 2018 and per Governor Ducey’s State of the State address his priorities will be K-12 Funding, addressing the state’s Opioid emergency, border security and supporting the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Other priorities are water rights, natural resources, an increased tax exemption for retired veterans and an increase in public safety efforts, including the enhancement of penalties for wrong-way drivers, and reducing prison recidivism with the expansion of “second chance” houses in Phoenix and Tucson. Dr. Crow spoke about ASU’s legislative priorities at the ASU Sun Devil Advocates Legislative Breakfast on January 9, 2018. ASU continues to support a state funding model that promotes Arizona resident student growth. Dr. Crow also advocated for recognizing the university as an Enterprise, with freedom to function as such. HB2110 Universities; Governing Boards is another bill to watch as it moves governing responsibilities from the Arizona Board of Regents to the “Governing Board of a University.” This 302-page bill references government and optional retirement programs (ORP) throughout, providing a university level methodology for employees to leave ASRS and move to an ORP. The Governing Board of each university will choose the ORP company or companies. Also, ORP participants shall have “old age, survivors and disability insurance coverage provided by the federal social security act.” HB2110 goes on to terminate ABOR on July 1, 2022 (subject to voter approval of a constitutional amendment) and adds governing boards for the University of Arizona, Arizona State University and Northern Arizona University. And there’s so many other bills: I see 35 bills referencing “retirement”, 50 bills referencing the “university” and 13 bills addressing “guns”. Would you like to be a legislative watchdog? We would love to have you! Please contact me with your interest ( jeri.meeks@asu.edu). Thank you! There are many intriguing bill titles this year and so much to look at! In response to the University’s Enterprise model I see two bills promoting the university level governing freedoms Dr. Crow is looking for: • SB1054 ASRS; Nonparticipating Employers defines the process for employers who are “no longer enrolling References: new employees in ASRS or no longer contributing to Governor Ducey’s 2018 Legislative Priorities: ASRS on behalf of current employees — who otherhttps://www.kgun9.com/news/local-news/2018-legislativewise would be eligible for ASRS membership.” This session-begins-gov-duceys-priorities-forecasted bill also defines the calculation methodology and mechanisms for the newly non-participating employer Sun Devil Advocates Resident Student Funding Model: http://cqrcengage.com/azsu/home?0 to fund the “actuarial accrued liability and designated asset amount” which will make ASRS whole for the Arizona 53rd Legislature Second Session Bill Query: current retiree defined benefit payments. https://www.azleg.gov/bills/ Volunteers Needed • • • • • • Technology and Website Committee needs volunteers to help maintain ASURA’s technology infrastructure. Contact: Connie McNeill, ConnieMcNeill@outlook.com. Committee members needed for the Special Events Committee. Contact: Jeri Meeks, jeri.meeks@asu.edu. Video History Project … tech savvy people with ability to be video editors, use iMovie or Adobe Premiere. Contact: Dave Scheatzle, david.scheatzle@asu.edu. Legislative Liaison group needs volunteers. Contact: Jeri Meeks, jeri.meeks@asu.edu. Office staff needed. Contact: Linda Van Scoy, (lvs@asu.edu) or Nancy Lesko (nclesko@asu.edu). Prime Times Editor/Publisher needed. Contact: Jeannette Robson, jrobson@asu.edu. Arizona State University Retirees Association Prime Times 4 Spring 2018 Sun Devil Advocates — 2018 Legislative Breakfast submitted by Tara Roesler, 2017-2018 ASURA Vice President Summary of Key Facts and Points from Dr. Michael Crow’s January 9, 2018 Presentation on: Arizona State University’s Charter, Major Accomplishments during his tenure and FY 2019 Public Investment Request ASU CHARTER: ASU is a comprehensive public research university, measured not by whom it excludes, but by whom it includes and how they succeed; advancing research and discovery of public value; and assuming fundamental responsibility for economic, social, cultural, and overall health of the communities it serves. HIGHLIGHTS OF ASU MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • US News and World Report #1 in the U.S. for innovation, third year in a row; • 18 leading edge, transdisciplinary schools (e.g., School of Earth and Space Exploration, School for the Future of Innovation in Society); • World-class faculty (e.g., 5 Novel Laureates, 6 Pulitzer Prize Winners, 3 MacArthur Fellows, and Top 10 Producer of Fulbright Scholars) • #1 public university for international students • 71% increase in degrees earned between 2005-2016 (127,600+) • 2016-2017 degrees awarded (23,300): Baccalaureate (16,400), Masters (6,000), and Doctoral and Professional degrees (900) • Student Body: 73,000 on campus students and 30,600 ASU Online students FY 2019 PUBLIC INVESTMENT REQUEST: Resident Student Funding Model: The goal of this request is to move forward towards achieving a State Funding level for resident students of 50 percent of the cost to educate a resident student. Last year, the Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR) began employing a three year “phase in” strategy for achieving this goal. For FY 2018, the proposed resident student budget request sets 2020 as the year in which the state will reach the 50 percent funding goal, where the state and universities each cover 50 percent of the cost to educate a resident student. The state is currently $233.6 million short of reaching the 50 percent mark. The amount requested in new state appropriations for progress towards this goal in FY 2018-2019 is $77.8 million system wide. The FY 2018-2019 ASU portion is $33.6 million. Resident Student Growth Funding: The state must also recognize not just existing resident students but new resident students so as not to lose ground on its progress towards the 50 percent goal. Between Fall 2016 and Fall 2017, Arizona resident enrollment at ASU increased by 1,512 full-time equivalent students, or 2.9%. Public investment totaling $7.92 million is requested to support these students, and will be used for faculty hiring and student support services. Health Insurance Trust Fund Premium Increase: In an effort to reduce the shortfall in projected ongoing revenue relative to ongoing Health Insurance Trust Fund expenses, the FY 2018-2019 budget request includes funding to cover a part of the 12.6 percent increase in employer health insurance premiums. ASU received $2.5 million to offset the cost increase while estimating the total all-funds post increase to be $13.3 million. ASU request $10.8 million to fund the remaining cost of the rate increase. Statutory Building Renewal: As required by statute, ASU calculates the formulaic fund required for annual building renewal at $48.2 million. Arizona State University Retirees Association Prime Times 5 Spring 2018 Video History Project — Interviewing ASU Retirees submitted by David Scheatzle, Chair, Video History Project The Video History Project, which began 18 years ago, has currently conducted 122 ASU Retirees interviews, fiftyone of which have been uploaded to the ASU Library’s Digital Repository. To view these videos please visit the following website: https://repository.asu.edu/collections/199. Barry McNeill has been leading an effort to improve the usability of the interviews that are available in the Digital Repository. When you visit the Video History Project’s interviews in the Repository it might be helpful if you could: • search for a particular story, say, The Pillsbury Bake Off or ASU/UofA rivalry; • get a quick overview of the topics within an interview, i.e., read an abstract and/or table of contents; • see all the interviews that have a similar topic, say, all interviews that discuss ASU West; • see where in the interview (minutes from the beginning) a particular story is located, say, “NFL comes to Sun Devil Stadium” at 0:40:20. The before-mentioned are possible provided the interviews have the appropriate descriptive metadata where metadata is information about the interview, e.g., an abstract, interview length, interviewee name, interviewer, topics covered, etc. This information can be added and stored with the video interview. At present, most of the interviews created by the Video History Project do not contain this metadata, so this is a project for us. Luckily, we have been guided by Carl Cross who retired from the ASU Library and has joined ASURA and the Video History Project Team. Carl was actively involved in the development of the Library’s Digital Repository. Several meetings were held during the past fall to standardize the metadata for our recorded interviews. Generating the metadata for an interview requires someone to watch the interview and take notes that can subsequently be converted into metadata. If you are interested in gaining a knowledge of ASU’s history, this is an opportunity to join the team and help with the project. You can contact Dave Scheatzle, Chair of the Video History project, at scheatzle@asu.edu. And, if you know of a retired ASU faculty or staff member who you think has a good story to tell about their career at ASU, please use the same contact information to provide their name and a brief synopsis of why you would like to recommend them. ASU Staff Appreciation BBQ’s The ASU Retiree Association had a presence at the recent Polytechnic staff appreciation BBQ on Nov. 14, 2017. Approximately 50 plus people stopped by the booth to get more information on what the ASURA has to offer retired ASU affiliates. The most discussed topic was health insurance options! submitted by Pat Schneider, ASURA Board of Directors (Pat also represented ASURA at the event) Arizona State University Retirees Association Prime Times 6 Spring 2018 Need Help With Technology? submitted by Connie McNeill, ASURA Website & Database Do you wish you had at home the technology support that you used to have at your office when you were working at ASU? Lots of people find it difficult to set up and troubleshoot their computers, smart phones and tablets on their own, and finding someone who can help can be difficult and expensive. We have two ASURA members who are willing to help you: Jill Massara and Rick Wall. ASURA does not endorse or rate any service providers, but we do encourage those who can provide services that are of interest to our members to advertise that fact in Prime Times, as both Jill and Rick are doing – see the back cover. Our goal in having ads is to make you aware of service options. Jill retired from ASU in April 2017. She has a degree in Technology Management and Educational Technology. She is offering to come to the homes of ASURA members anywhere in the Valley to set up computers or smart phones or tablets and train on use. She is familiar with Apple and PC systems, and knows what software is available to ASU retirees free or at a discount. She will do this at a price that is mainly set to recoup travel costs – she does not have a technology support business, but rather is interested in sharing her expertise to help fellow retirees. Jill can be reached at (480) 310-0276, and her e-mail is gumpsmomma@gmail.com. Rick worked for the UTO Help Desk and retired a few years ago. He has a business called “Zonal Technology Service” through which he provides technology support services. His fees compare favorably with such services as Geek Squad. Contact Rick at (480) 518-2892 or Rick.Wall@asu.edu. ASURA Needs Your Old Books! submitted by Mary Stevens, Book Donations Are your bookshelves too full? Are you downsizing your office or your home and don't have space for all of your books? Donate your used books to us, and we will work with our partner, Friends of the Phoenix Public Library, to sell them. We will use proceeds of the sale to support our programs. The ASU Foundation, a separate nonprofit organization that exists to support ASU, will provide a gift receipt for tax purposes. Half of the proceeds will be used for our ASURA scholarship that goes to an ASU student and half will be used for our Video History project. If you have books you can donate, please visit our website at https://asura.asu.edu/BookDrive and print our donation form. Complete the form and either (1) scan and fax to (480) 965-7807, (2) email to Mary Stevens, chair of the Book Drive project at marystevens0@gmail.com, or (3) mail it directly to the ASURA office. For more information please contact me at (602) 758-3750. (NOTE: If you need boxes, you can pick some up from our office. When boxing your books, please do not overfill the boxes: leave sufficient room to cover or close each box.) Arizona State University Retirees Association Prime Times 7 Spring 2018 Need to Update Your Address? submitted by Barry McNeill, ASURA Board of Directors The number of postal mailings has dropped significantly with the increased use of email but ASURA still uses the U.S. Postal Service to deliver Prime Times to all its members and the Board Member ballots are mailed to those who do not use email. Thus, having a current postal mailing address is important. If you received Prime Times in the mail ASURA has your correct address but if you would like to check to make sure or if you are changing your address call the ASURA Office, (480) 965-7668, and ask them to check your address or to change it to your new address. (NOTE: If you would like to do this yourself, go to the ASURA website (https://asura.asu.edu) and click on “Update your Profile” in the “Membership” menu.) ASURA Board Member Elections submitted by Barry McNeill, ASURA Board of Directors The election of five new ASURA Board Members continues through February 28, 2018. Please show your support for those who volunteer to lead ASURA by voting in this year's Board member election. We have 5 names for 5 positions because there are not more people volunteering to serve in this vital capacity. Your vote shows your appreciation for those who are offering their time and expertise. If you have not received your ballot either in the U.S. postal mail or via email by February 15, 2018 please contact Barry McNeill at barry_mcneill@outlook.com or (480) 945-3565. 2018 Annual Meeting submitted by Jeri Meeks, Committee Chair, 2018 Annual Meeting “Pursuing Our Passions Makes for Happy, Healthy Lives” What keeps us healthy and active as we grow older? Healthy eating – sure! Staying physically active, of course! Reducing stress and maximizing joy, absolutely. We can accomplish all of these things by pursuing our passions; joining like-minded people in fun, personally and socially rewarding activities. Please join us at the Phoenix Art Museum, Singer Hall for the ASU Retirees Annual Meeting on Tuesday April 24, 2018, 11:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Along with celebrating our accomplishments and members we will hear from a panel of experts promoting a lifestyle of pleasure, purpose and pride through quality social relationships. Our speakers are Nancy White from the Desert Botanical Garden, Will Russell from the Arizona Site Stewards and Kaela Hoskings from the Phoenix Art Museum. Please check our website https://asura.asu.edu for an agenda and travel instructions. Also, we hope you will take some time to visit the Phoenix Art Museum before or after the meeting. For Museum programming please visit their website at http://www.phxart.org/exhibition/current . Arizona State University Retirees Association Prime Times 8 Spring 2018 2017 Annual Tri-University Meeting submitted by Jeri Meeks, ASURA President ASURA representatives, President Jeri Meeks, Vice President Tara Roesler, ADOA Liaison Larry Carlson and ASRS Liaison Dick Jacob met with NAURA President Norm Bertram and UARA President Alison Hughes to discuss retiree organization concerns at the annual Tri-University meeting on October 23, 2017 in Tempe. Special thanks to the ASU Decision Theater for hosting this event again! Retiree Association representatives discussed organization challenges in the first hour of the meeting; what we are doing right and what we could do better. Membership and recruitment are always hot topics, and this meeting was no different. ASURA was pleased to discuss our excellent seminar series, event schedule, travel program and service projects. ASRS Liaison Dave Canella and ASU Executive Director of Community Relations Stephanie Salazar spoke to the group in the second half of the meeting. Dave announced that the employee contribution would be going up again this year to over 12%. He also stated that ASRS would not be introducing any significant legislation in the upcoming session and would not be pursuing a bill that was tabled last session, regulating the criteria for an agency withdrawing from ASRS. Stephanie stated that ABOR Finance Committee was meeting soon to discuss several budget issues, one of which is changing the criteria for a full-time employee from 20 hours a week to 30 hours a week. There was no discussion of changes to retiree system or health care offerings at this meeting. We would like to thank NAURA for sponsoring this meeting and the wonderful lunch at El Hefe. The avocado street tacos were not to be missed! ASURA will be sponsoring the 2018 Tri-University meeting. Adopt-A-Family Program Update submitted by Joan Leard, Committee chair, Adopt-A-Family Program A special thank you to the ASURA Board for budgeting funds for the Adopt-A-Family program again this year. As in previous years we have adopted two families: one chosen by a Tempe School System social worker and one chosen from ASU returning students. The Tempe family is a mother, father, a 14-year old girl and a 13-year old special needs boy living in a one-bedroom apartment in Tempe. The father suffers from Muscular Dystrophy (MD) so he is not currently working. One request was a juice extractor so healthy juices could be made for the father. The ASU family consists of a full-time college student who aged out of a group home at 18 and claimed her siblings. She is now 21 obtaining a double bachelors … Psychology and Family & Human Development … while responsible for two males, 4- and 14-years old, and a 17-year old female. The student said I just hope I can give the kids something for Christmas because they deserve it. With the appropriated funds we were able to buy clothing, school supplies, toys, food cards for holiday meals and other items as requested by the families. I never get an opportunity to meet these families but do receive many thanks from the social worker and ASU employee that distributes the gifts. I am continually told that our effort does make a big difference in the lives we touch. We also owe a special thanks to JC Penney at Tempe Marketplace since they have been allowing us a 15% discount on everything we buy for this program. Arizona State University Retirees Association Prime Times 9 Spring 2018 2017 Holiday Potluck and Bake Sale submitted by Bonnie Scheall, Luncheon and Special Events The Annual Holiday Potluck and Bake Sale was held on December14, with over 60 members and guests attending. There was a wide array of wonderful and delicious dishes prepared and shared by everyone. The 2017 Bake Sale was a huge success, generating more than $220 from baked goods made and donated by our members. Many thanks for the incredible help from the committee and volunteers for assisting with this seasonal event. ASURA Presidents: Jeri Meeks (17-18), Doug Johnson (07-08), Connie McNeill (10-11), Hal White (90-91), Jo Madonna (14-15), Mary Stevens (09-10), Jim Fordemwalt (15-16), Dave Scheatzle (04-05), Barry McNeill (13-14), and Elmer Gooding (05-06). Column 1: Barry & Connie McNeill; Ellie Large; Nancy Dickson-Roger Lurie-Bill StasiBarbara Tibbets-Jo Faldtz; Trudy Perez; Joy Shearman. Column 2: Rick Martorano; Joyce Hartman Diaz-Jim & Beth Fordemwalt-Joe Schultz-Doug Johnson; Brenda & Dave Scheatzle. Column 3: Tara Roesler-Joy Shearman-Barbara Bradford Eschbach-Sue & Maynard Blumer; Elmer Gooding; Carol Moore. Column 4: Caryl DuBrock; Judith Smith; Sue & Ig Tsong; Jan Thompson; Hema Indap. (Note: To view more photos of all ASURA events, please visit the ASURA Photo Gallery web site at http://asura.zenfolio.com/) Arizona State University Retirees Association Prime Times 10 Spring 2018 2018 Open Enrollment Health Care Seminar - October 2017 submitted by Bev Buddee, Seminars The ASURA 2018 Open Enrollment Health Care Seminar, held Thursday, October 26 at the Tempe History Museum was well attended. Jerry Waterworth, Community Volunteer with the Community Educators Program at AARP Arizona, spoke about the ABCD of Medicare. He clearly explained the differences between Original/Traditional Medicare (Parts A and B) and Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Medicare drug coverage (Part D). He explained the need for medigap and drug coverage insurance with Original/Traditional Medicare. Jerry also touched on eligibility, enrollment periods (initial, general, special and open) and assistance available through Medicare Savings Programs and/or low income subsidy. Resources include: Social Security, Medicare, State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), Area Agency on Aging, and AARP. Julie Lockwood, Program Administrator, Member Services Division, at Arizona State Retirement System informed the group that open enrollment ran from Wednesday, November 1 through Thursday, November 30, 2017 with coverage beginning January 1, 2018. This was a passive enrollment again which meant no action was required unless coverage changes were desired. ASRS members were encouraged to review their current coverage and make changes to personal information, etc. by logging into their respective MyASRS account. Elizabeth Schafer, Plan Administrator in the Benefits Services Division of the Arizona Department of Administration, informed the group that action was required to retain insurance coverage in 2018. Open enrollment ran from October 30 through 5:00 p.m., November 17, 2017. Changes in 2018 benefits include premium increases and copay increases. The good news is the plan changes include providing preventive care with no copay. This includes routine wellness exams, a wide range of screening tests, immunizations and preventive care medications. Delta Dental remains the PPO dental provider at the same rates and same coverage. Medical carriers and coverage plans are staying the same; coverage for the vision and hearing aids benefits remains the same, and there is no impact to the health insurance subsidy from the Arizona State Retirement System. A time of questions and answers followed each presentation. Jerry Watterworth, AARP Medicare Specialist Julie Lockwood, ASRS Representative ADOA Representative, Elizabeth Schafer (Note: To view more photos of all ASURA events, please visit the ASURA Photo Gallery web site at http://asura.zenfolio.com/) ASU Retirees Tour of the Polytechnic Campus — November 2017 submitted by John Brock, ASURA Travel Committee chair For about six and a half hours, 18 ASU Retirees experienced a wonderful tour of the ASU Polytechnic campus. Some arrived via the ASU shuttle service which is a good way to travel. The tour started at about 10:00 a.m. at the Technology Center where we were given a short overview of the ASU Polytechnic campus from its conception to present. We then visited a wearable robotics lab (assisted human movement, like walking) which was then followed by a presentation about manufacturing assistance from engineering and technology and how that is advancing with interaction with private industries including the medical professions. Also included in the Technology center was a show and tell about Graphics Information and current printing technologies. We then went to the chemistry and biological science labs in the Santan Hall, seeing modern laboratory settings. (Continued on page 12) Arizona State University Retirees Association Prime Times 11 Spring 2018 (Continued from page 11) We had a good lunch (all you can eat!) at the Citrus Dining facility, which provided some rest (the Polytechnic campus has a big footprint). Afterwards, we proceeded to ISTB 3 where we heard about Human Systems Engineering projects dealing with “big data” for detecting computer hacking and managing drone aircraft. Our last, but not least, presentation was at the algae/biofuels lab. We learned there that algae are in our lives daily and by selecting algae species they form oils that can be easily converted to diesel, jet fuel, and gasoline. Once processed for biofuel, the algae bodies that can be used as organic fertilizers or livestock feeds. Janina Kokins, Dave Schwalm, Connie McNeill, Jerry Snyder study the Autonomous Bike. We finished the tour by seeing some of the outdoor algae production facilities, and the site is a national “test bed” for this developing industry. Another item that was impressive is the campus landscaping which is dominated by desert vegetation, with many native trees. A special thank you to our hosts, especially Anna Wales, of the Polytechnic School, who helped arrange the tour. Algae farm at ASU Polytechnic (Note: To view more photos of all ASURA events, please visit the ASURA Photo Gallery web site at http://asura.zenfolio.com/) Stress Reduction in Retirement — January 2018 submitted by Bev Buddee, Seminars Shelly Christy, of the ASU Employee Assistance Office, gave a very informative presentation for the January 11th “Stress Reduction in Retirement” seminar. Though not largely attended, there was lots of lively conversation. Shelly touched on 5 lifestyle habits that are beneficial: 1) Exercise and activity, particularly outdoor activities. Activity causes the brain to release the chemical serotonin which is helpful in dealing with Pat Schneider & speaker Shelly Christy depression. 2) Adequate sleep. 3) Spiritual life. It is very healthful to develop an attitude of gratitude. 4) Relationships. Take time to connect with others. Nurture existing relationships; give back to the community. Volunteerism is a good way to give back. 5) Physical bodies. Good nutrition and hydration are essential. Shelly also gave the audience some anxiety reduction specific techniques: 1) Breathe 4, 7, 8. In this technique, inhale through the nose for a slow count of 4, visualizing the air bypassing the lungs and filling the diaphragm. Hold the breath for a count of 7, and then slowly exhale through an open mouth to a count of 8. Repeat this procedure for several times. Amazingly the tension/ anxiety lifts. 2) Challenge the anxiety - Say “what if” to the challenge. ~70% of worries never come to fruition. 3) Control our thinking. We can control our thinking, our attitudes. Don’t take up other’s bags that we can’t control. (Continued on page 13) Arizona State University Retirees Association Prime Times 12 Spring 2018 (Continued from page 12) Other tips:         Be mindful, focus on the good and uplifting. Financial concerns: simplify; live within our means; cut back if needed; find part-time work. Health concerns: enjoy what we have; keep medical appointments; be grateful; expect the challenges; be mindful of lifestyle choices that affect our health. Caregivers: don’t neglect yourself; nurture daily; get assistance. Relationship issues: this is the time to nurture our part in healthy relationships; model what we expect from others, i.e. forgiveness. Dealing with changes: find a sense of purpose for yourself; structure your day; replace the social connections lost upon retirement. Kids returning home: calculate the cost and decide if you want to bear the increase or ask them to contribute; lay the ground rules – your house, your rules; you, the parent, are the coach with the goal to make them independent, be friends when the goal has been reached. Slow down: enjoy this time. Shelly concluded the seminar by reminding the audience that the Employee Assistance Program is still available to retirees for short term counseling. Call (480) 965-2271 for an appointment, if needed. Spring 2018 Calendar of Events Event Date Time Fraud & Scams Seminar Thursday, February 15 10:00 a.m. ASURA Board Meeting Tuesday, March 13 10:00 a.m. Emergency Preparedness Seminar Thursday, March 15 10:00 a.m. Spring Luncheon Tuesday, March 20 11:30 a.m. Tovrea Castle Tour Friday, April 6 TBD Canyon Lake & a Cruise on the Dolly Steamboat April TBD TBD Caregivers Seminar Thursday, April 19 10:00 a.m. ASURA Annual Meeting Tuesday, April 24 11:00 a.m. ASURA Board Meeting Tuesday, May 8 10:00 a.m. Please put these dates on your calendars. As the events get closer, additional information will be available on our website, https://asura.asu.edu, and you will be able to register for the events. As we get more into the Spring and as new events are added, email notifications will be sent and updates noted in the monthly E-News blasts. As a reminder, we are always open to any suggestions from our ASURA members as to what events or travel (local and international) you would like ASURA to consider. Spring 2018 Luncheon at Shalimar Golf Club On March 20, 2018, the first luncheon is being planned at Shalimar Golf Club in Tempe. Rob Spindler, University Archivist at the ASU Library will be our guest speaker. Rob will update the ASURA members on new programs and ongoing activities. More information will be posted on the ASURA website, https://asura.asu.edu. submitted by Bonnie Scheall Arizona State University Retirees Association Prime Times 13 Spring 2018 Obituary Notifications: September 2017 - January 2018 please note that all obituary notices and photos, when available, are on our website: https://asura.asu.edu/obituaries submitted by Becky Reiss Name Date of Death ASU Affiliation Aronson, Jerome ”Jerry” October 7, 2017 Professor, Plant Biology Austin, Christine December 5, 2017 Coordinator of Development Operations, Herberger Institute for Design & the Arts Blanton, Lewis Ray August 21, 2017 College/department affiliation unknown Bordner, Olga Jean December 27, 2017 Secretary, College/department affiliation unknown Byrd, Lila October 3, 2017 College/department affiliation unknown Casey, James M. September 25, 2017 College/department affiliation unknown Cooper, Jean Elizabeth December 19, 2017 College/department affiliation unknown Corpstein, Peter “Pete” Joseph November 28, 2017 Sun Angel Foundation, Honorary Lifetime Director DeLong, Kimberly John September 22, 2017 Professor of Theatre Delmolino, Alan J. December 8, 2017 Custodian Ervey, Joan Marilyn September 6, 2017 Admissions Department Ferrell, Margaret November 19, 2017 Secretary, Educational Psychology Department Freeman, Donald John, PhD. November 21, 2017 Associate Dean, Professor, College of Education Holloway, John September 6, 2017 Emeritus Professor, Chemistry & Geology, School for Molecular Sciences Hoover, M.D., Reynolds Kay October 28, 2017 Volunteer, Student Health Services Jekel, Karen Wittmer December 2, 2017 Walter Cronkite Telecommunications & Journalism - Trustee; ASU Research Park Board of Trustees Kleinlein, Shirley Ann September 16, 2017 Clinical Assistant Professor, College of Health and Innovations Lape-Bertani, Janet Vogelsang September 17, 2017 College/department affiliation unknown Leffler, Timothy August 5, 2017 School of Music Mandarino, Salvatore “Sal” Anthony September 16, 2017 Chemistry Department Clerk Menk, Robert L. December 16, 2017 Founding member, ASU Business Advisory Council Miller, Fred October 22, 2017 Athletic Director Mutschler, Helen Marla September 13, 2017 Professor, School of Music Pace, Brian November 10, 2017 Shop Superintendent, Facilities Management, Polytechnic Campus Obituaries continued on page 15 Arizona State University Retirees Association Prime Times 14 Spring 2018 Obituaries continued from page 14 Name Date of Death ASU Affiliation Parks, MaryAnn October 29, 2017 College/department affiliation unknown Phillips, Elizabeth D. Capaldi September 23, 2017 University Provost, Executive Vice President Raby, William Louis “Bill” December 25, 2017 Faculty, Accounting Department Rein’l, Jane Prescott August 17, 2017 Professor, Philosophy and Eastern Religion Rispoli, Irma “Ann” November 18, 2017 College/department affiliation unknown; Wife of Frank Rispoli, Asst. Athletic Director (deceased) Schattke, Rudy December 1, 2017 Professor of Accounting Schatzki, George December 27, 2017 Emeritus Professor, Interim Dean, Sandra Day O’Connor School of Law Shackle, Linda November 18, 2017 Science and Engineering Librarian Sprout, Francis Allen November 2, 2017 Adjunct Art Professor, ASU West Standridge, Lanny November 28, 2017 Assistant Director; Chief of Police, Police Department Talley, Patricia Ann October 2, 2017 Talley Industries gifting of Castle Hot Springs resort Tambs, Lewis Arthur October 19, 2017 Director for Latin American Studies Torres, Fidel M. October 31, 2017 Academic Counselor Westby, Corrine (Connie) November 4, 2017 Family Nurse Practitioner, Student Health Services Wham, George Sims November 29, 2017 Guest Lecturer, College affiliation unknown Whiffen, Pam August 7, 2017 Astronomy Department Whiting, Lorana Randall November 25, 2017 Established the Kaibab Industries Scholarship program with husband, Milton “Mickey” Whiting (deceased) Williams, John Reese December 2, 2017 ASU Alumni Board member; President of Architecture School Alumni group Wiseman, Greta December 24, 2017 Faculty, College of Nursing Young, Dorothy N. November 1, 2017 Student Health Center Nurse In Memory of Carolyn Lanners Carolyn Lanners passed away on December 19, 2017. She was a regular substitute volunteer during the academic year at the ASURA office from 2009-2012. During her ASU career she worked in Computing Services from 1976 to her retirement in 1992. She led a busy life. In addition to her family, travel and other volunteering she was in the front office helping support our organization. Carolyn was friendly and always smiling. She will be missed. submitted by Linda Van Scoy Arizona State University Retirees Association Prime Times 15 Spring 2018 ADVERTISEMENTS These listings are not endorsements or ratings of the services or products provided. Information is based only on material received from service providers. For detailed information on the ASURA advertisement policy and how to submit an advertisement, please visit https://asura.asu.edu/PrimeTimesAdvertising. Note that if you charge a fee you must offer a discount of at least 5% to anyone who mentions your ad placed here. Prime Times is issued three times annually by the Arizona State University Retirees Association and offers special editions, as needed. It is compiled and published by Jeannette Robson, printed by AlphaGraphics, and mailed through ASU Mail Services. Articles are always welcome, subject to Board approval. Mailing Address: Prime Times, ASU Retirees Association, PO Box 873308, Tempe, AZ 85287-3308 Arizona State University Retirees Association: ASURA has a volunteer-staffed office in the Community Services Building, 200 E. Curry Rd., Room 201B in Tempe, Arizona. Phone: (480) 965-7668 Fax: (480) 965-7807 Website: https://asura.asu.edu 16