Greetings-

My name is Frank Townsend and I am the President of the California State APWU Retirees Division.  On behalf of the Executive Board and the members of the Retiree Division, I would like to welcome you to this website and the retiree’s page.  Hopefully over time, many of your questions concerning the process of retiring will be answered along with receiving tips and ideas on how to have a successful life in retirement.  Retiring doesn’t have to be complicated.  We are here to give you assistance so that you don’t get lost. 

OPM (Office of Personnel Management) has many regulations regarding retirement.  The first step is making sure your retirement application is filed correctly.  If you need or desire help, you can contact Mary Martinez at (209) 943-3030.  Mary will walk you through the application process and will assist you with Shared Services.

 The Retirees Division is planning on having two retirement seminars during 2014.  The first will occur in Northern California as part of the 2014 State APWU Convention.  The second seminar will be at the Southwest Coastal Area Local, Anaheim, California in November, 2014.  Exact dates and times of these two seminars will be posted when the information becomes available.  If your local wants to have a retirement seminar, please contact me at (951) 500-5284. 

In 2012, APWU retirees were given the right to vote for their national officers because of a change to the National Constitution.  Sadly, during the recent 2013 APWU election, it appears that less than 900 retirees in California took the time to vote.  As a group, we must take the time to do those things that further our best interests. Joining CARA (California Alliance of Retired Americans), NARFE (National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association) and many other similar groups helps to bind us together in order to have our voices heard.  Please, take the time to vote!  It doesn’t cost you a dime.

Enjoy your retirement and thanks for your time!

Frank Townsend, President

California State APWU Retirees Division