> Dear Mr. Tute84
>
> Thank you for bringing to our attention your concern regarding the NEA
> Travel Rewards Program.
>
> Let me begin by saying that we welcome feedback on NEA Member Benefits'
> (NEA MB) programs and take your concerns very seriously. We sincerely
> care about NEA members and their impressions of these programs.
>
> Mr. Tute84, please let me assure you that we have looked into most every
> possibility to keep the NEA Travel Rewards Program under the current
> configuration. Changes to the NEA Travel Rewards Program were necessary
> because of the unanticipated rise in costs associated with operating a
> program with such generous reward terms. In fact, since the program was
> introduced in 1997, the costs have tripled. NEA Member Benefits was faced
> with a difficult decision: either discontinue the program altogether, or
> modify it in such a way that members would still gain significant benefits
> while ensuring the program could be sustained. We chose the latter
> option.
>
> The new NEA Travel Rewards Program provides members the opportunity to
> participate in an attractive and competitive travel program that is
> exclusive to NEA members. Unlike most other travel rewards programs, the
> NEA Travel Rewards Program has no blackout dates or limited seating for
> reward redemption, and is not restricted to a single airline.
>
> As a current participant, you may continue to earn and redeem Travel
> Rewards points under the current program through December 30, 2001, for
> travel to be taken up to one year subsequent to that date (December 2002).
> For example, if you wish to book your summer 2002 travel, you should make
> the arrangements prior to December 30, 2001. The new Travel Rewards
> Program with the adjusted redemption schedule goes into effect December
> 31, 2001.
>
> In closing, I also want to assure you that the NEA does not benefit
> financially from any of the NEA Member Benefits' Programs. All royalties
> from NEA Member Benefits Programs are used to offset our administrative
> and marketing costs associated with the programs.
>
> Thank you again for giving me the opportunity to address your concerns.
> I want you to know that we value your support of the NEA and NEA-sponsored
> programs and hope that you will reconsider your participation in the NEA
> Travel Rewards Program.
>
> If you have any additional questions, you can reach me at 1-800-637-4636,
> extension 3528.
>
> Sincerely,
>
>
>
> Robin Jenkins
> NEA Financial Services