The Pension Boards-United Church of Christ (PBUCC), a founding member of The Interfaith Center for Corporate Responsibility (ICCR), is taking significant steps toward action on gun violence in America. Gun violence, particularly school shootings, is a concern shared by over 300 faith community members of the organization.
By Rev. Jill E. Olds*
It sounds rather daunting when I put it that way, doesn’t it? I mean, that term can reference a few different things in our church context. Of course, it can refer to the season of autumn that is upon us. Or, it can refer to the concept that all of humanity is broken in some way, in need of being raised up by Jesus.
Recently, PBUCC Staff and Investment Committee members met with outside experts from Northern Trust, Neuberger Berman, and GSAM to:
To be honest, the better performance by the U.S. versus the rest of the world is not entirely unexpected after a strong year for international stocks in 2017. Tax changes and less regulation have stimulated the U.S. economy, but the markets have recently started to gravitate to the idea that the U.S. represents the only investment opportunity in the world. Although Pension Boards’ Funds are allocating a majority of assets to U.S. investments, most experts know the benefits of diversification over the longer term, and international markets should not be ignored, especially when they hold value for the longer-term.
We thought you would like to see a current assessment of emerging markets by GSAM. We will continue to keep you informed on trends influencing global markets and your retirement funds.
*The EM Comeback report is used with permission of Goldman Sachs Asset Management.
Highmark recognizes how important it is to help those affected by natural disasters, so we’re putting temporary program changes into effect for those who are affected by Hurricane Florence. For those who reside in areas where States of Emergency have been declared, the following waivers have been put in place:
Have you ever walked out of a doctor’s office and forgot to ask a question about a symptom you’ve been having, or brought home a new medication and couldn’t remember if you were supposed to take it with a meal?
A little preparation before your next visit can help you ensure you’re getting the most out of your doctor visits, and ensure you’re being an active participant in your health – saving you time, money and worry. You can get more from your doctor visits by following these tips:
Before you go…
While at the visit…
Don’t miss out! UCC Non-Medicare Health Plan participants and their covered spouses/partners have can earn up to $300 each for completing Healthy Stewards Wellness Rewards activities. Get started by logging in at www.highmarkbcbs.com and clicking on Rewards Program.
Complete all three Wellness Reward activities and earn $300!
Contact a PBUCC Health Services Representative with program questions at 1.800.642.6543, ext. 2870. For login help, call Highmark Technical Assistance at 1.877.298.3918.
On January 1, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield became the administrator for the Flexible Benefits Plan for UCC Ministries (also known as the Flexible Spending Account or FSA).
FSA Plan participants may now access their accounts by logging in to Highmark at www.highmarkbcbs.com. Once logged in, click the Spending tab for an overview of your account, submit claims, or provide substantiation for a debit card purchase. Click here for additional information on using your account or contact Highmark BCBS at 1.866.763.9471 with questions.
As the days get warmer, it becomes increasingly important to stay hydrated and keep your body cool. Whether you are spending a leisurely day at the beach or going for an outdoor run, you should make sure that you are taking the proper steps to prevent dehydration and overheating.
Tips to stay hydrated:
Know the signs of a heat-related illness: Visit the Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC) Extreme Heat and Your Health website to learn about the warning signs of heat-related illness. If you suspect that you or someone you are with is experiencing heat stroke, call 911 immediately.
With just a little planning and preparation, you and your loved ones can stay cool and refreshed on hot summer days. Enjoy the warm weather and stay safe!