April, 2002

On April 17, 2002, John Richter and Jay Tepe of O’Gara-Hess & Eisenhardt Armoring Company in Hamilton conducted a fascinating tour of O’Gara’s armoring facility. John gave us an overview of the company, its history and products, and its general financial structure, then Jay walked us through the plant. We had viewed many Humvees, SUVs and other non-military sedans in various states of being disassembled and reassembled with O’Gara armor and armored glass. We saw the meticulous planning and skill involved in reconstructing each vehicle to protect occupants from attack, and the pains taken to disguise non-military vehicles from being obviously armored vehicles (and therefore potential targets!). It was an intriguing learning experience. Our thanks again to John Richter, Jay Tepe, and others at O’Gara-Hess & Eisenhardt that made this rare behind-the-scenes tour a possibility for us.

Our May 15, 2002 meeting will be held at 4 p.m. at the Radisson Sharonville (11320 Chester Road). Back by popular demand, Jerry Meyer of Provident Bank will present our Annual ACH/Nacha Update with the following agenda:

· NACHA Update

· Accounts Receivable Conversion (ARC)

· Corporate Check Conversion -- Where Does This Stand?

· Check Conversion at Point of Purchase (POP)

· Check Truncation Avoidance - Position 44

· ACH Filters

· Internet Initiated Entries (WEB)

· Telephone Initiated Entries (TEL)

· Consolidated Returns, RCK, Check Fee

· Biometrics and How 9/11 Plays A Big Role In This Product

The May meeting is also, officially, the Association’s Annual Meeting. We’ll take just a few minutes to receive the financial report and budget by the Treasurer. We will also take nominations for and vote on officers for the new Meeting Year commencing June 1. The Association’s Nominating Committee will be presenting their nominations:

For President: Sarah Burton, Relizon Corporation

Vice President: Steve Skerl, Day International

Secretary: Scott Mumpower, National City Bank

Treasurer: Tricia Ethier, Key Bank

Within the next several weeks, members and individuals on our mailing list will be receiving the SWOAFP’s Annual Spring Survey. The purpose of the survey is to gauge members’ and prospective members’ preferences for meeting topics, meeting venues, and other areas of interest. The Executive Committee relies very heavily on results from the survey and the comments to construct the meeting topics and places for the ensuing meeting year. Therefore, it is very important that you complete and return the survey. Thanks for your help.