PERSpectives newsletter will go paperless

Beginning the first quarter of 2014, PERSI will begin posting the PERSpectives newsletter on its website. Members will be notified by e-mail instead of receiving a paper copy at their home addresses.

The change in delivery allows PERSI to get the newsletter to members in a timely manner (more than a month earlier than before), saves money and is an environmentally friendly option for members. Electronic versions also will include more robust content, such as videos, blogs and links to information.

Printing and shipping costs for 260,000 newsletters mailed each year amount to $180,000, which comes directly out of the PERSI retirement fund. the organization intends to use the money saved to help keep the fund stable and contribution rates down for thte 65,000 active members.

The conversion to an electronic format began with the current issue and is expected to be complete by the first quarter of 2015.

"Those members for whom we already have e-mail addresses will receive an electronic newsletter notification by e-mail," the current PERSI newsletter states. "As we gather additional e-mail address, we will continue to mail fewer and fewer paper copies with the goal of sending 100 percent electronic newsletters.

"To hit our goal, we need valid email addresses for all active members--you can use a personal address or work e-mail if allowed. The easiest way you can help is by making sure you're signed up for myPERSI and making sure your coworkers arealso signed up."

If you do not want to receive the PERSpectives Newsletter, you may log into your myPERSI account, scroll to the bottom of the page and click the "Unsubscribe from Newsletter" option.

The PERSpectives Newsletter will still be available on the PERSI website and can be viewed by clicking on "Members" and then "Newsletters."t

Published 4-4-14