AAFES Retired Employees Association Newsletter JULY 2018 Supporting the Interests of AAFES, Its Retirees and the People It Serves

AAFES Retired Employees Association Newsletter JULY 2018 Supporting the Interests of AAFES, Its Retirees and the People it Serves

Thanks to some generous donations (see details on page 12), AREA has been able to increase our 2018-2019 program to 12 scholarships for a total of $40,000. Last year AREA awarded 9 scholarships for $29,000. Congratulations to this year’s award recipients!

Abram Qui, the son of Haibo Hannah Lei, the daughter of Qui and Lihua Ju, received I-Chen Chen and Michael Lei, the top AREA scholarship of received one of two $5,000 scholar- $5000 for outstanding ships awarded. She plans to major academic achievement and in computer science at one of the community involvement. He four prestigious universities where will enter Rice University this she has been accepted. Hannah fall seeking an Engineering maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout high school. She received the degree. While attending Marin Presidential Volunteer Service High School, Abram achieved Award for three years, participated the “Student of the Month” in city government through the award, volunteered at a Arlington Youth Council and Hospital and non-profit health care clinic and was a violinist played in the All Region Symphony in the All Region Symphony Orchestra. Abram is a national and All State Orchestra. finalist in the 2018 National Merit Scholarship Program and achieved a perfect ACT score. AREA scholarships award story continues on page 8.

The Votes for AREA Officers are In!

The slate of officers for the new 4-year term of 2018 through 2022 include:

President—Chuck Poffenbarger Vice-President—Tom Gallagher Secretary—Don Smith Treasurer—Terry Corley Pag e 2 July 2018 AREA NEWSLETTER

Chuck Poffenbarger, President

Bit O’ This Bit O” That

Welcome to the July 2018 summer edition of AREA’s Newsletter. Our Web Site: www.aafes.com/about-exchange/retired-employees-association/ The Officers of the Association – Chuck Poffenbarger (P), Tom Gallagher (VP), Terry Corley (T) and Don Smith (S) were re-elected in the April election. The 4-year term began June 1, 2018 and ends May 31, 2022. Thanks for your support!

SCHOLARSHIP DONOR RECOGNITION PROGRAM: Ten British animal idioms and expressions (and what they AREA has a program to recognize the generous donations mean)* from retirees and other sponsors when awarding scholarships. 1. Make a pig’s ear of something (means: If you make a pig’s ear of For large donations of $1,000 or more, we’ll name one of our something, you make a mess of it.) ten $3,000 scholarships after the donor, or someone else if 2. Have kittens (means: If you’re having kittens, you’re panicking.) designated, and provide the sponsor with the student’s name 3. All dressed up like a dog’s dinner (means: You’re wearing and address should they want to send a congratulatory note. ridiculously smart or ostentatious clothes.) Likewise, sponsor donations of $2,000 or more are available 4. A cold fish (means: You’re unemotional, and perhaps even un- for each of our two $5,000 scholarships. Send an email to friendly. To sound even more British, add a bit of) Chuck Poffenbarger, [email protected] for further details. 5. Like a bear with a sore head (means: You’re in a very bad mood. To make a donation of any amount, complete the donation Interestingly, this phrase is more often used to describe men than form in this Newsletter or go to our web site link women.) YouCaring Donations to use a credit card. 6. Not give a monkey’s (means: be completely indifferent or unconcerned.) (Note: Scholarships were awarded in late March so donors 7. Like a rat up a drainpipe (means: If you move like a rat up a desiring to participate in our Donor Recognition Program drainpipe, you move extremely fast.) during the 12-month period beginning April 1 will be 8. Be up with the lark (means: If you’re up with the lark, you’re recognized in our 2019 program.) awake and up and about very early.) 9. The lion’s share (means: if you get the lion’s share of something, Mixed-Up Idioms* you get most of it (rather than all of it.) • Don’t judge a book before it’s hatched! 10. Stag night or party and hen night or party (means: If you’re invited to a stag night or a hen night, be prepared for some pretty wild • Every cloud has a silver spoon in its mouth partying.) • It’s not rocket surgery! • You can’t teach a leopard new spots *Oxford Dictionaries: https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/ • That train has left the frying pan • Until the cows come home to roost • Until the pigs freeze over! • We’ll burn that bridge when we come to it • You’ve opened your can of worms – now lie in it!

AREA...JUST FOR YOU AREA NEWSLETTER July 2018 Pag e 3

YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITS… Benefits Q&A—Questions you ask; answers from Exchange Benefits

Q: Can you give us an update on the funding status of the Exchange Basic Retirement Plan and the Post-Retirement Medical (PRM) Plan? A: Even though the stock markets have been somewhat volatile recently, 2017 was a year of strong investment returns. B: The assets in the pension trusts increased from $5.8 billion to over $6.2 billion during 2017. These trust assets are used for the exclusive purpose of providing benefits to our current and future retirees. The retirement plans remain well funded and the Exchange continues to take the necessary steps to ensure the plans’ assets provide strong returns while minimizing risk. AAFES Retired The Trustees, with the help of professional investment managers and investment Employees Association advisors, have developed a well-diversified portfolio across a wide range of investment asset classes. In comparison to 557 other pension plans in Wilshire The AREA Newsletter is published Consulting’s fund universe, the Exchange’s Basic Retirement Plan’s ranked in January, April, number 17 over the last 10 years. July and October Funding Status Mailing Address: AREA 2016 2017 P. O Box 380614 Basic Plan 93.4% 98.2% Duncanville, TX 75138-0614 Post-Retirement Medical (PRM) Plan* 67.2% 75.8% President: Chuck Poffenbarger (*The goal for the Post-Retirement Medical Plan is to maintain funding at [email protected] approximately 70 percent. Most companies do not pre-fund their retiree medical costs.) Tel: (972) 296-0388 Note: The PRM plan is also used to pay post-retirement dental and life Membership & Address insurance claims for retirees who qualify for continued benefits—see your Changes: plan document for details. Send your newsletter address, membership changes, and mem- Your pension benefits are a promise the Exchange has made to you and bership dues to the AREA intends to keep! Our Trustees know the importance of your financial Membership Director Pat Weaver. future and are committed to ensuring a secure plan for your retirement. Note new e-mail address for Pat: [email protected] PLAN TRUSTEES Tel: (972) 780-9810 PHILIP R. STEVENS - Chief Administrative Officer/CIO Newsletter input: JAMES A. JORDAN - Executive Vice President & Submit articles to the editor by Chief Financial Officer e-mail to: Marcia Kane at [email protected] LEIGH A. ROOP - Executive Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer AREA Web address: https://www.aafes.com/about- KAREN Y. STACK - Executive Vice President & Chief exchange/retired-employees- Logistics Officer association/ TERRY CORLEY - AREA Representative (PRM Trust) Pag e 4 July 2018 AREA NEWSLETTER

YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITS… Benefits Q&A—Questions you ask; answers from Exchange Benefits

Q: HOW DO I …change the bank account for my pension direct-deposit? Or my tax withholding on my pension? Or my mailing address for my pension check stub (and everything else related to my retiree benefits)?

A: IT’S EASY! You can make all these changes on the website called “MYPENPAY”. The name is an abbreviation for My Pension Payment: MY PENsion PAYment

Your changes will go through much faster if you make them online on the “MyPenPay” website, as opposed to the older way of sending in a change form. Here’s the full internet address for MyPenPay: https://aafesretirement.mypenpay.com

First Time using the MyPenPay Website Go to https://aafesretirement.mypenpay.com. • Select SSN as login preference. Enter SSN (no dashes). • Enter temporary password provided. • Select Login. • Answer three security questions. • Enter a personal password.

Forgot Your Password? Log onto the website. • Select “Forgot Password?” • Select SSN as login reference. • Enter SSN (no dashes). • Enter last name as it appears on Check/Advice. (Be sure to enter any extension, such as “Jr” with a space between that and your last name.) • Select “Submit.”

If you had previously logged in, the website will ask the security questions. If you don’t remember the answers, select “My Password via US Mail,” and the password will be sent within two business days to your address on record.

How many AAFES retirees used MyPenPay in 2017? AREA NEWSLETTER April 2018 Pag e 5

YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITS…

Year 2034—Not That Far Away

Editor’s note: For some of us, even thinking about 2034 may seem impossible. But for active and newly retired associates, this date may come around sooner than they think. We share the following information not to alarm you, or to make you lose sleep at night, but to encourage everyone to tell lawmakers and those running for Congress your opinion on how best to solve this problem. *See AARP’s recommended questions for those running for office in the 2018 midterm election. It would be irresponsible to speculate how our retirement plan might change in response to potential Social Security (SS) rules, but changes would have to be made to our plan due to the interaction between pension benefits (prior to age 65—that is, the bridge payment) and the pension payment one would receive after becoming eligible for SS benefits.

According to a 2018 report by the Trustees of the Social Security Trust, Social Security will be insolvent by 2034 if we don’t act now! The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget did an analysis of the June report and summarized their findings as follows: The Trustee project that the Social Security program faces a large and growing funding imbalance that must be addressed promptly to prevent across-the-board benefit cuts or abrupt changes in tax or benefit levels. This year’s report shows:

• Social Security Will Run Permanent Deficits. For the first time since 1982, the program will spend more than it raises in revenue and collects in interest. The gap will total $900 billion over a decade. On a cash-flow basis, Social Security will run a deficit of $85 billion this year and $1.7 trillion over the next decade. • Social Security Faces Large Long-Term Imbalances. The Trustees estimate Social Security faces a 75-year shortfall of 2.84 percent of payroll (1.0 percent of GDP), growing to 4.32 percent of payroll (1.5 percent of GDP) by 2092. That means payroll taxes will need to be increased by 22 percent or scheduled benefits cut by a sixth (or some combination) to ensure 75-year solvency; ultimately, taxes will need to be increased by a third or benefits reduced by 26 percent. • Social Security Will Be Insolvent by 2034. The Trustees project depletion of the Disability Insurance trust fund by 2032 and the Old-Age & Survivors Insurance trust fund by 2034. On a theoretical combined basis, the trust funds will run out by 2034 – the same as last year’s projections. At the time of insolvency, all beneficiaries will face a 21 percent across-the-board benefit cut. • The Problem Is Similar To Last Year, But Has Deteriorated This Decade. Social Security’s 75-year shortfall rose from 1.92 percent of payroll in 2010 to 2.83 percent last year and 2.84 percent this year. The 2034 insolvency date is the same as projected last year, but three years earlier than projected in 2010. • Lawmakers Should Start Making Changes Now. Social Security insolvency is not that far away – when today’s 51-year-olds reach the normal retirement age and today’s youngest retirees turn 78. Waiting 16 years to act would mean any tax hikes or benefit cuts have to be 35 to 40 percent larger.

Protecting Social Security’s solvency is vitally important for the country’s overall fiscal outlook and the 86 million beneficiaries who will be on the program when the trust funds are exhausted in 2034. Swift action is needed to prevent seniors, surviving dependents, and people with disabilities from facing abrupt cuts in just a few years.

AARP says there are 5 questions about Social Security you should ask your candidates during the midterm 2018 Election: 1. How would you improve service? Many people encounter long waits on the phone or in person because of staff cuts and closure of offices. 2. Are you committed to having annual cost-of-living (COLA) adjustments keep up with inflation? (Editor’s note … the current administration has proposed some COLA changes, but no change has been supported by most lawmakers in either party so far.) Unlike the former Civil Service Retirement Service (CSRS) plan and the various DoD NAF defined benefits retirement plans, most retirees don’t get a defined retirement benefit; and those who get a check from their employer, most don’t get a COLA. 3. Would you raise the age for full retirement benefits? Lawmakers have raised it before to help keep the trust fund solvent. 4. Would you raise the cap on payroll taxes? Workers pay into Social Security only for the first $128,400 earned in 2018. Raising the cap would boost funding. 5. Where do you stand on disability benefits? Some politicians want to increase funding to speed up the claims process. Others want to cut funding and encourage more people to start working again. (Editor’s Note: The Exchange has an external specialized vendor help our disabled associates with the application for Social Security Disability benefits, and appeals if the initial application is denied.) Contact [email protected] or call 1-800-519-3381 if you have questions. Source: AARP Bulletin/ Real Possibilities, June 2018. See the complete article in the June issue of the AARP Bulletin. Pag e 6 July 2018 AREA NEWSLETTER

YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITS…

Updated “Helpful Information for AAFES Dependents on Pension and Insurance Benefits” Available The updated June 2018 brochure is too big to include in the newsletter, but it will soon be available on the AREA web site: https:// www.aafes.com/about-exchange/retired-employees-association/. Look under the “Miscellaneous” category, “Benefits” tab. We strongly recommend printing off a copy and keeping it in a safe place along with your will and other important papers. Discuss the document with your spouse and/or others that will be responsible for handling your affairs after you are gone. Make sure they know what is uniquely applicable to your survivors. For example, if you don’t have Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), let your survivors know that you don’t have that type of life insurance coverage.

Retiree Benefits Info (Important Ages and Contacts): Links and contacts are also available on the AREA website shown above. Here is a copy of the handout:. If you want a full-size copy, contact [email protected]. AREA NEWSLETTER July 2018 Pag e 7 From the Director/CEO June 2018 Newsletter—50,000 Veterans and Military Spouses by 2020

“The Exchange is reaffirming its commitment to hiring 50,000 Veterans and military spouses by 2020. The Exchange was recently named a 2018 Top 10 Military Friendly Employer® and Military Spouse Friendly Employer® by Victory Media. Since 2010, the Exchange has hired more than 1,100 Wounded Warriors. The announcement comes as the Exchange began serving honorably discharged Veterans through a lifelong online military exchange shopping benefit. All who served honorably receive military-exclusive pricing and tax-free shopping at ShopMyExchange.com. Eligibility to shop can be verified at ShopMyExchange.com/Veterans or VetVerify.org. Veterans, military spouses and others seeking employment with the Exchange can visit Apply MyExchange.com to view job opportunities worldwide.” See the complete June Director/CEO newsletter at: https://www.aafes.com/Images/leadership/ceo-newsletter-june2018.pdf Tom Shull, Exchange Director/CEO

AREA BOD Looks To the Future of the Quarterly Printed AREA Newsletter

A Special Note From Your Editor: On June 1, 2015 I took Instead of hearing about Christmas parties in April, we could over the preparation of this quarterly AREA newsletter from give you this news in real time and get you information weekly Larry Phillips. It is a great volunteer job and I am forever or monthly depending on the news traffic. Also, the benefits grateful to Larry for his continuing advice and help to bring branch would have a better way to communicate with retirees you news that you want. One challenge I have had in recent on “time sensitive” benefits information, such as the recent months is the flare-up of my cervical spinal stenosis and as I benefits fairs, free health screenings at AAFES facilities, etc. finalize this newsletter, I find that I am “feeling” the Eliminating the “hard” copy of the newsletter would save degenerative discs more and more. approximately $2,340 each quarter. (This was the billed amount As a result, I’ve asked Chuck Poffenbarger and the AREA from our printer for the April 2018 edition of the newsletter.) BOD to consider some ideas for the future of this newsletter Even with newly eligible and current retirees now switching to and I would very much like your thoughts. First, see the the “on-line” copy of the quarterly newsletter, the expense to below advertisement for this unpaid, but very fulfilling, job print and mail the newsletter is simply not sustainable. I have as your AREA Newsletter Editor. I hope to continue in this proposed to the AREA BOD that we consider dropping or role for awhile unless I have to have surgery sooner, but we eliminating the separate National Membership dues for those need to know now if someone is willing to take on this job. I who pay dues to a local Chapter. For those who want the will guide you through the process and help in any way I can National AREA Membership only, we think a nominal fee to teach you how to prepare the newsletter. Larry still serves would be appropriate, less than the $17 charged now. me well as my “proofer” and I am sure he will continue to Your president Chuck Poffenbarger and I would like to help any way he can. hear from you regarding these ideas. NO FINAL The AREA BOD is also considering my proposal to eventu- DECISIONS HAVE BEEN MADE AT THIS TIME. ally transition to a fully up-to-date internet-based publication WE ARE SIMPLY CONSIDERING FUTURE CHANGES! that will bring you news as it happens via your e-mail in- Please send your comments/suggestions to your AREA box. The planned target date is 2020. This will follow President at [email protected] or to me at what’s happening with other newsletters, and fits in with [email protected]. the new way The Exchange publishes “The Exchange Marcia Kane Post” (see article on page 13) . AREA Information Officer and Newsletter Editor

Do You Want to Volunteer to be the future AFEA Newsletter Editor? Here is your chance to shine! Please apply for the exciting volunteer AREA Editor job today by sending a message to Chuck Poffenbarger. We’d like to know more about you and when you could fill this position. Some experience in editing, writing, or developing a website newsletter is helpful but not required. (Most of us still have some “brain cells” left to learn!) If you have specific questions on how the process works you can also contact Marcia Kane the current editor at [email protected]. Apply Today and Make a Difference! Pag e 8 July 2018 AREA NEWSLETTER

Scholarships Awarded for 2018-2019 (story continued from page 1)

Rohan Vemu is the son of Srinivas Vemu. He was awarded the top $3,000 scholarship. He will attend the University of Pennsylvania, majoring in Bioengineering. Rohan is an Eagle Scout and was on the Honor Roll for three years. He also served as a Research Intern at the Universities of Pennsylvania and Washington. In addition to his scholastic achievements, Rohan played the violin as an All State Texas Musician. Audrey Wall is the daughter of Michael Wall and a $3,000 scholarship awardee. A member of the Na- tional English Honor Society, she plans to major in General Sciences at the University of North Georgia at Dahlonega. She achieved a 4.1 GPA as well as serving as Cadet Captain in her Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC). Audrey’s goal is to become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in a military hospital.

Megan Brett, the daughter of Kevin Brett, was awarded a $3,000 scholarship. She will be a Business/Pre-Dental major at Texas A&M University. Megan is the Captain of the Varsity Golf Team, a member of Student Council and the National Honor Society. To support her dream of becoming an Orthodontist, Megan maintained a 4.7 GPA. She wants to practice in third world countries in order to bring much needed dentistry to those in need.

Jeremy Lee is the son of Andrew and Vicki Lee and recipient of a $3,000 award. He is an Eagle Scout and member of the Mountain View College Honor Society, and the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. He has taken five college level courses while attending High School. Jeremy plans to major in Pre-Law at one of the four prestigious Universities where he has been accepted. AREA NEWSLETTER July 2018 Pag e 9

Scholarships Awarded for 2018-2019 (continued from page 8)

Elise Tyler, the daughter of Christopher Tyler, is the recipient of a $3,000 scholarship. She is a member of National Honor Society, International Thespian Society and German Honor Society. She managed the Boys Varsity and Junior Varsity Soccer Teams, tutored Middle School students and played in the school band and orchestra. Elise is Pharmacy major who plans to attend Regis University in the fall.

Ozias Wright is the son of Terri Wright and a $3,000 scholarship winner. He is a Mechanical Engi- neering major and plans to attend Sul Ross State University. Ozias was on the Honor Roll throughout high school and volunteered at the Central Texas Boys and Girls Club. He was named the 2017 Offensive Most Valuable Player as a member of the football team as well as playing on the Central Texas All Star team. Ozias is certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service in Automotive Technology.

Sebastiano Porter, the son of Gregory Porter, was awarded at $3000 scholarship. He will major in Biology at Point Loma Nazarene University in Brooke Christoffersen, the daughter of the fall. Sebastiano is a mem- Shawn Waldrop, was awarded a $3000 ber of the National Honor scholarship. She will attend Dallas Society and the National Baptist University studying Music Society of High School Education this fall. Brooke volunteered Scholars. In addition to his for the National Honor Society, served academic achievements, he in student government and achieved an volunteers at the North Texas Advance Placement Scholar Award. Food Bank and the Duncan- For two consecutive years, she was ville Recreation Center. honored as an Outstanding Performer Sebastiano aspires to attend in the solo and ensemble contests. Medical School. She aspires to be a music teacher. Pag e 10 July 2018 AREA NEWSLETTER

Scholarships Awarded for 2018-2019 (continued from page 9)

Tyrell Frederick, the son Bettina Ciciriello-Frederick, was awarded a $3000 scholarship. He plans to major in History at Sacramento State University. Tyrell served in student government as well as participat- ing in the Model United Nations. He was awarded Certificates of Excellence and Recognition from the San Bernadino Superintendent of Schools and the California Legislature Assembly. He hopes to serve in the United States Air Force.

Leona Walton, the daughter of Kristen Schmied, was awarded a $3000 scholarship. She will attend Florida State University as a Biology major. She graduates Summa Cum Laude and is a member of the National Honors Society. She is a volunteer and a member of the Cross Country and Track and Field Team. She attended medical classes at Florida State University during the summer and aspires to be a surgeon.

This year the AREA Scholarship Program Evaluation Committee was again made up of volunteers taking time to apply exceptional judgement to the evaluation process. I personally thank Don Smith, Robert Ellis, John Tokar, Richard Sheff, and Mary Waldsmith. We also had Dr. Jim Skibo, an active executive from HQ AAFES, as our Scholarship Liaison Member. We sincerely appreciate the time and effort these committee members took to make the scholarship program a success!

Don’t forget about next year. If you know a qualifying student entering his or her first college semester in the Fall of 2017, make sure he/she reviews our Scholarship Program requirements on the AREA web site (see next page for the link). Note: Parents (or Grandparents) of the student being nominated must be a member of the national AREA organization (and not just a local AREA chapter member).

Michelle Priester AREA Scholarship Program Director AREA NEWSLETTER July 2018 Pag e 11

PO Box 75138 Duncanville, TX. 75138 AREA Scholarship Program This year AREA awarded ten $3,000 and two $5,000 scholarships to high school graduating students for a total amount of $40,000. As I read the bios of our awardees on pages 1 and 8 through 10, I was stuck by what smart and talented young people we are helping. This year’s program beats last year’s award amount of $29,000 given to nine students. I am also proud to tell you that with the 2018-2019 awards, AREA members have given out a total of $784,795 in Scholarship Awards since 1985 to a total of 358 students. In 1985 AREA gave a total of $2,000 to four recipients so the program has grown significantly thanks to you.

So why the increase this year? We were blessed to receive generous donations by a number of people and Chapters. So what are YOU waiting for? Make a difference in some student’s life and donate today! Here’s how:

Option #1: Complete the donation form (see pages 26-27) and mail it together with your check to the address at the top of the document. You can also email the completed form to Pat Weaver, Membership Director, at [email protected].

Option#2: Donate any amount using a credit card at our web site link: https://www.aafes.com/about-exchange/retired-employees-association Under the Community Programs section (on the right side of the web page), go to the 2nd bullet item, “YouCaring Donations”. When you click on the link, it will connect you to the ‘AREA-sponsored Internet Scholarship Donation Page’ where you can use a credit card.

We now recognize donors making large contributions to the AREA Scholarship program (see pages 26-27): • For donations of $1,000 or more, we’ll name one of our ten $3,000 scholarships after the donor, or someone else if designated, and provide the sponsor with the student’s name and address should they want to send a congratulatory note. • Likewise, sponsor donations of $2,000 or more are available for each of our two $5,000 scholarships. Send an email to Chuck Poffenbarger at [email protected] for further details. We award scholarships in late March so donors desiring to participate in our Donor Recognition Program beginning April 1 will be recognized in our 2019 program.

So how does the program work? Here’s a short synopsis:

The program is limited to graduating high school seniors. General, Personal and Student Academic criteria, as well as scholarship applications, are listed on the AREA web site (see above link). The same site sets out the specific requirements for applying for a scholarship, e.g., application period, minimum SAT and ACT scores, etc. Applications must be sent to the scholarship committee during the designated enrollment period – January 1 through March 31 of each year. AREA administers the program through an appointed AREA Scholarship Program Director. Committee members lay out the parameters of the program each year, which are ultimately approved by the AREA board of directors.

Michelle Priester AREA Scholarship Program Director Pag e 12 July 2018 AREA NEWSLETTER

AREA Scholarship Program www.aafes-com/about-exchange/retired-employees-association/

Donate $1,000 or more to the AREA Scholarship Program and we’ll name one of our ten $3,000 scholarships after you, or someone you designate, and let the student know, if you desire. Likewise, donate $2,000 for each of our two $5,000 scholarships.

To make a donation of any amount, complete the donation form in this News- letter on pages 26-27, or go to our web site link on the AREA web site. Use the YouCaring Donations option (described on page 11) to use a credit card. (Note: We award scholarships in late March so donations from April on will be included in our next program.) For further details, contact Chuck Poffen- barger, AREA President at [email protected].

To Scholarship Donor From: AAFES Dependent Subject: AREA Scholarship

Thank You for your financial assistance and moral support. Your contribution gave me confidence to realize that I could get through this successfully.

A Grateful Student

Notable Named Donations for the 2018-2019 Scholarship Year

• Charlene Kon on behalf of her father Charles Kon who retired from AAFES in 2001 after 33 years of service. His title was computer systems analyst. • Marilyn Iverson, who worked for AAFES for 35 years and retired in 2006 as the Chief Operating Officer (COO). • Karen Forsyth, who worked for 30 years and retired in 2003 as VP Corporate Planning & Communication. • AREA’s North Texas Chapter in memory of Brenda Morgan, who retired from AAFES in 2007 as a Supervisory Senior Business Program Specialist. • Robert Pardue, Chief, Payroll and Benefits Branch, retired in 1996 after 27 years. AREA NEWSLETTER July 2018 Pag e 13

PO Box 380614 Duncanville, TX. 75138-0614 AREA… contributing to the future Community Service Awards

The Retired Employees Association recognizes Exchange retirees, associates (and their children) who volunteer their time and devote other resources, such as personal knowledge and expertise, to help improve the economic, civic and social health of the communities where they live and work. The Community Service Review Committee reviews the nominations and selects those who will be recognized for their commitment to their communities’ well-being. Richard Fregoe chairs the committee and Jerry Cloud and Chuck Poffenbarger are voting members. If you have a nomination, please submit to Chuck Poffenbarger by e-mail to: [email protected], or mail to: AREA, PO Box 380614, Duncanville, TX 75138-0614

See page 25 for the updated Community Service nomination form. The form is also available on our web site: https://www.aafes.com/Images/Community/AREA/nom_form_2018.pdf

Your Exchange Post Now Provides You With Real-Time News In 1955, the first Exchange Post rolled off the press. Back then, the associate newspaper was a monthly broadsheet. In 1998, the Exchange Post became a monthly magazine. How times have changed! Today, The Exchange Post is all digital and releases at least weekly to keep you informed in real time about Exchange news right on your computer screen, cellphone or tablet. The Exchange Post updates you on Exchange initiatives and achievements and spotlights exceptional stories among associates. One recent feature focused on 12 AREA college scholarship awardees. Another story highlighted the Exchange being named a best employer for Veterans. You should have received an email that looked like the image at left that featured these stories. Clicking on the headlines will allow you to read the stories online. You can view each story in a PDF format by going to the article, scrolling to the bottom, and clicking on the PDF icon. You can also browse all our articles at TheExchangePost.com. Exchange Corporate Communications Editor/Historian Steve Smith serves as The Exchange Post’s editor. Contact him with questions or to have The Exchange Post delivered to your inbox. His phone number is 214-312-3831 or contact him through his e-mail “[email protected]”. Pag e 14 July 2018 AREA NEWSLETTER

Army & Air Force Exchange Service Honors Sacrifices of Vietnam Veterans Worldwide

Vietnam-era Veterans received lasting mementoes to honor their sacrifice during pinning ceremonies at Army & Air Force Exchange Service stores around the world on March 29—National Vietnam War Veterans Day. The lapel pins, provided in partnership with the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration, are a token of the Nation’s appreciation for these heroes, who, decades ago, did not receive the homecomings they deserved. The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration is a program administered by the Office of the Secre- tary of Defense to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. The U.S. began commemoration of the Vietnam War’s 50th anniversary in 2012 and will continue through Veterans Day 2025. The Exchange is a 50th Anniversary Vietnam War Commemorative Partner, planning and conducting events and activities that recognize Vietnam Veterans and their families for service, valor and sacrifice in conjunction with the Commemoration.

In Washington, D.C., Exchange Director/CEO Tom Shull, a West Point graduate who began his Army service during the Vietnam era, received a pin on behalf of the Exchange during a ceremony at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Tom Shull, Exchange Director/CEO

It was a beautiful day over North Vietnam on June 5, 1967 as Major Durward Priester and his back-seater Captain John Pankhurst escorted bombers on a combat air patrol in their McDonnell F-4C Phantom II fighter jet. As the aircraft approached their target, Priester spotted two North Vietnamese MiG-17 aircraft taking off from Phuc Yen airfield.

These Soviet built single seat fighters were nimble and deadly to the American F-4C in the hands of an experienced pilot. The two MiGs flew toward the safety of the Chinese border but Priester knew that a typical “stack three” formation indicated a third MiG out there. The third MiG was spotted at 8000 feet and Priester descended to engage him. Mid-air “dog fights” with the smaller MiG were risky because the F-4C Phantom, equipped with air to air missiles, had no automatic weapons for close range fighting. Due to losses earlier that year, Priester’s ground crew at DaNang Air Base had installed a 20mm cannon on the bottom of the aircraft. The MiG executed a hard right turn and Priester fired the cannon, missing the shot. He Major Durward Priester remembers that he “relaxed and fired a second short burst and could see the rounds hitting behind the MiG’s canopy. A big ball of fire rolled out of the MiG’s tail and it crashed into a military barracks area.” Priester’s kill was the fourth and last MiG shot down by an F-4C Phantom with a 20mm cannon in 1967. The introduction of gun pods played a major role in forcing the North Vietnamese to re-evaluate their tactics. Today, most fighter planes still carry internal guns to supplement their missile arsenals. Colonel Durward Priester, USAF retired with 32 years of service, was awarded the Silver Star and is also a recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross with oakleaf clusters. Michelle Priester, his daughter, retired from the Exchange in 2011 with 30 years of service.

If you have a family member who served in Vietnam, and you’d like to share their story/photos, please send them to me at: [email protected]

Vietnam War Veterans Day stories Marcia Kane, AREA Newsletter Editor (continued on next page) AREA NEWSLETTER July 2018 Pag e 15

The Exchange Honors Sacrifices of Vietnam Veterans (stories continued from page 14) Dalton K. Murayama (worked for AAFES from Aug 1971 - Aug 2001)

As soon as I graduated from the University of Oregon with a Bachelor of Architecture Degree, I was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant (2LT) in the US Army Corps of Engineers and honorably served two years on active duty. From May 1970-May 71, I served as a 1LT Platoon Leader and Company Executive Officer with the "A" Company 7th Engineer Battalion (Mechanized) in I Corps in Quant Tri, Vietnam (near the DMZ). Our company was attached to the 1st Brigade 5th Infantry Division (Mechanized), identified by a "Red Diamond" patch. I received a Purple Heart Medal (injured on March 17, 1971 on St. Patrick's Day in RPGs ambush near Khe Sanh) and very luckily survived with ear drums and shrapnel injuries. Our unit went on operations with the 5th Infantry all over I Corps and often lived in underground bunkers at Fire Support Base (FSB) C-2 and A-4 near the DMZ. Overall, I also received two Bronze Star Medals (second medal being a Bronze Oak Leaf); with one medal being for Opera- tion Lam Son 719 (covered in Part 9 of 10 in the Vietnam Series by Ken Burns and Lynn Dalton At FSB C-2 Novick). I was fortunate coming home from Vietnam in Hawaii as the airport customs attendant greeted me, "Welcome home, Brah!" I still keep in touch with a few Vietnam veterans from our unit in PA, TX, MD, and HI. We all served honorably, and quietly did our duties when called upon. We are all humbled and appreciative to be here today.

Interestingly, in Fort Leonard Wood, I was assigned as a 2LT Assistant Exchange Officer in the Equipment and Facilities Branch (I think the Exchange Officer was MAJ Bloomfield).

My parents legally immigrated to Hawaii from Fukuoka, Japan; my Dad in 1912 and my Mom in 1915 and they got married in 1915 in Hawaii. I was born and grew up in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii and graduated from Lahainaluna High School, established in 1831 by missionaries. Dalton at FSB A-4

Vietnam Pinning at NAS JRB Fort Worth Dalton K. Murayam Exchange in March 2018 today at the Romeo Coffee Club (see pg. 22) Dalton at “Above and Beyond” display in Chicago of 58,300-plus dog tags of veterans who died in Vietnam Conflict Vietnam War Veterans Day stories (stories continued on next page) Pag e 16 July 2018 AREA NEWSLETTER

The Exchange Honors Sacrifices of Vietnam Veterans (stories continued from page 15) Patrick C. Kane, served two tours in Vietnam. His service is a little unusual in that he served in the Navy and after a break, in the Army as well. His Navy in-country tour in Vietnam was during 1968-1969. The second in-country Vietnam tour was while he was in the Army during 1971-1972. He went to Vietnam as a Military Policeman in the Army and was honorably discharged as a Sergeant at the Presidio of San Francisco in April 1973.

We were married after he returned from Viet Nam on January 27, 1973, at the chapel on the Presidio of San Francisco Army Base in CA. When Patrick got his discharge later that year, he worked for the Exchange at Presidio of SF as an Exchange Detective until he got a full time position at the Post Office. He got re-employed with AAFES in San Antonio at the Distribution Center as a Security Specialist in 1977. He terminated employment with AAFES again in the early 1980’s to go to work for “General Dynamics” in Ft. Worth, TX). He worked in different security positions until he retired from Lockheed Martin in 2002. (Lockheed Martin was the company that took over General Dynamics in Ft. Worth, TX) . Patrick Kane’s wife Marcia Kane retired from The Exchange Benefits Branch in 2005 with 33 years service.

Meaning of the Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin

Patrick Kane wearing his Patrick C. Kane an Army Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin MP in Vietnam (1971-1972) and his American Flag Pin

March 29—National Vietnam War Veterans Day HQ AAFES Store “Pinning Ceremony” My husband Patrick C. Kane (front row standing on the right) was one of the many Vietnam Vets honored that day across the country. AREA NEWSLETTER July 2018 Pag e 17 CHAPTER HAPPENINGS

Alamo Chapter—Brenda Borland

The Alamo Chapter of the AREA held their annual picnic in April at the home of Len and Rhoda Freitas. The potluck included fried chicken and drinks provided by the AREA. A loud friendly game of Left, Center, Right was played with Tom Gross taking away a gift certificate as the winner.

Mike Bresnok, Kathy Jackson, Mark Porter, Dan Forsch, Jackie Robinson Around the table--Yolie Guardiana, Ella Trevino, Bette Brenda and Ron Nagle Rhorer, Diane Gross, Mike Rhorer, Tom Gross, Janice Dobbs, Tony Trevino, Rick Forsyth Standing--Brenda Borland, Shannon Soefje, Retha Freitas, Marilyn Cerna, Song Choe The Alamo Chapter in San Antonio celebrated an early Mother's Day at Silo Elevated Cuisine. The 27 attendees were given a choice of 5 different entrees and enjoyed a 3 course meal. As always, great food and wonderful service.

Brenda says it was like “herding cats” to get this Mother’s Day luncheon photo. Too many to identify!

Augusta Chapter – Cynthia Grzbowski

I am so very happy to announce the new Officers for the AREA Augusta Chapter: Jean Crittenden- President: Joni Armitage- Vice President; June Caldwell- Secretary; Cindy Grzybowski- Treasurer Thank you to Brenda Akridge, previous Vice-President and Secretary, Rita McLaughlin, previous Treasurer, and Janet Adams, previous Treasurer, for their outstanding efforts, loyalty and support during the time I was President. I couldn't have made it without you all! I know Jean Crittenden will do an outstanding job and bring new life to our chapter as she looks at what exciting things we can do with her “new eyes”. Please mark your Calendars ...our next meeting will be 27 August 2018 at the Jamestown Community Center.

Cynthia Grzybowski AREA Augusta-President, outgoing! Pag e 18 July 2018 AREA NEWSLETTER CHAPTER HAPPENINGS

Ft Dox-McGuire Chapter—Betty O’Brien

Dear fellow AREA members: I have some awesome news! No ….I’m not getting married (smile). God has provided me with another opportunity to serve, one as a missionary again this summer! My church, First Baptist Church of Mt Holly, NJ is sending a short-term missionary team to Puerto Rico. If you remember, PR was devastated last summer by two hurricanes’ and many of the people on this island are still without the basics needs. Our missionary team will be heading out from July 28 through August 4 2018, joining hundreds of other volunteers help rebuild and restore hurricane ravaged Puerto Rico. The total cost for each person is $750 for the week, including airfare. If you would like to contribute any funds to help us go, that would be a blessing! Send checks to the First Baptist Church of Mt. Holly, 1340 Woodlane Road, Eastampton, NJ 08060 or go online to: fbcmh.org/give. (Choose quick give or login and then choose Puerto Rico). Also note that any donation for this cause is tax deductible. I would ask that you pray for our group during this time frame. God is doing great things in my life providing strength and courage to continue to serve and help others. God Bless, Betty O’Brien

Northern California Chapter – Ken “Tom” Keim

Spring Bake Sale Our annual spring bake, book and craft sale held on March 31 was a great success. Starting at 9:00 AM and lasting till 2:45 we made $636.00 which included the $132.00 that was donated at our last meeting. Thanks to each of you for all your help and contributions.

Bake Sale workers waiting for customers Bake Sale workers taking a rest

We met at a new (to us) restaurant for our May meeting at the Waffle Shop in North Highlands. Our room, food and service all met with good favor, so much so that we decided to return for our November meeting when we have our annual holiday auction. Members and guests in attendance were: Doris Aplass, Margaret Belcher, Rosie Boyce, Yaeko Cooper and friend Maya, Lisa Denny and her friend Helga who is visiting from Germany, Bob and Fran Desrochers, Maureen Dobert, Dianne Hobbs, Yukie Hoffman, Rosa LaBoeuf, Richard Mason, Gloria Masse, Phoebe Murrell, Margie Scheatzle, Kristin Taylor, Jerri Thomas, Fatma and Jerry Thomason, Stella and Mike Winch and Lee Woodward and her sister Marian Brock.

We enjoy getting together each month and the conversations never stop. Our main purpose is social, staying in touch with our AAFES family but we do take pride in donating to the VA hospital and other organizations when we can. We voted for and are pleased to be returning to Casa Gar- den Restaurant in October. The money raised from this nonprofit restaurant mainly goes to the Sacramento Children’s Home. (May Luncheon photos shown next.) AREA NEWSLETTER July 2018 Pag e 19 CHAPTER HAPPENINGS

North Texas Chapter—Richard Sheff and Chris Gehringer

April 22—Theater Coppell—Communicating Doors

JoAnn & Jack Leavitt, Lena Poffenbarger, Sue Sheff, Chuck Poffenbarger

Leon & & Marilyn Levin

Roy & Linda Dean Richard & Sue Sheff

Congratulations to our member, Barry Gordon! From Barry Gordon, newly elected Mayor of Duncanville TX ... "To all those who have sent me messages, I am deeply grateful for your friendship and best wishes. It is humbling and encouraging to know that folks from the various chapters in our lives remain lifelong friends. It's still a bit overwhelming to see the level of voter support. Marlyse and I never took anything for granted, working hard to garner support and understanding from the citizens of Duncanville. For those wondering if the age of miracles has past, know for certain that it has not. This election is truly one of God's miracles. Blessings to y'all." Pag e 20 July 2018 AREA NEWSLETTER CHAPTER HAPPENINGS

North Texas Chapter—Richard Sheff and Chris Gehringer (continued)

Congratulations to our North Texas Chapter Member Jerry Cloud The Mansfield, Texas High School (MHS) Key Club presented Jerry Cloud, North Texas Chapter-AREA, VP-Membership, with the Outstanding Kiwanis Advisor Award on April 19, 2018 in recognition of his dedicated leadership and service to the MHS Key Club, the Texas-Oklahoma District and Kiwanis Club of Mansfield for 2017-2018. Jerry is a 20-year member of the Mans- field, Texas Kiwanis Club and substitute teacher for the Mansfield Independent School District. He was nominated for the award at the annual Key Club District Convention held recently at the Sheraton Hotel in downtown Dallas. He is pictured with the MHS Key Club Board. Key Clubs are high school student-led service organizations under the auspices of Kiwanis International. The Kiwanis organization serves the children of the world. Kids need Kiwanis and Kiwanis needs you!! Jerry Cloud (center) with the MHS Key Club Board May 9—Texas Rangers Game: Great Day at the Ballpark – with a Rangers Win!

Roy & Linda Dean Keith & Sandy Boettiger Chris Gehringer with Grandson, Tristan

Dale & Cheri Linebarger with daughter, April and Granddaughter Genevieve

Jerry & Sandy Johnston AREA NEWSLETTER July 2018 Pag e 21 CHAPTER HAPPENINGS

North Texas Chapter—Richard Sheff and Chris Gehringer (continued)

NTC AREA BENEFITS LUNCHEON We had a very successful speaker luncheon at Mercado Juarez in June. The food, service, space, handouts and speakers were great. We had a total of 77 people attend the luncheon.

Judy Hanson & Jerry Julie Emory & Amanda Dooley & SS Speakers Table of Friends! Johnston

ROMEO Friday Coffee Club—Story by Linda Dean

Back in 1993 several friends and Arlington neighbors retired after a wonderful career with AAFES. Having some time on their hands Roy Dean, Gary Conroy and Bruce Luedke decided to gather weekly for coffee at the local la Madeleine’s and to solve all the world problems. Yes, it has been that long ago, and 25 years later the group of AAFES retirees are still meeting every Friday morning at 9:00 at the la Madeleine French Bakery & Café located at 1201 N. Collins St. in Arlington. It wasn’t long before more and more AAFES alumni joined the coffee group. They soon became known as the ROMEO Fri- day Coffee Club. Don’t let the “ROMEO” name fool you. It’s not a romantic innuendo. These Romeos are Retired Old Men Eating Out. Of course that was before some of the women retired and joined the group, but the women didn’t want to be included in the “old” part so the name was left it as it was.

Richard Sheff, Tom Minton, John Rogers, Roy & Dalton Murayama, Roy and Linda Dean, Buddy Harrington, Tom Minton, Linda Dean, Joe Krivis, Judy Hanson, and Jerry Johnson Tom Minton, Chuck Poffenbarger, Chuck Poffenbarger, Joe Krivis, and Joe Krivis, and Judy Hanson Judy Hanson

It’s not an exclusive club. Everyone is invited. We all have other obligations and other interests that includes traveling, so on any given Friday we can have up to 15 people or as few as 6. You’re invited to come when you can. So, what keeps us coming back week after week since 1993? (Continued on next page.) Pag e 22 July 2018 AREA NEWSLETTER

ROMEO Friday Coffee Club—Story by Linda Dean (continued)

Here’s an idea of what we do: • We love to share old AAFES stories… again, and again and again! • We share any old AAFES pictures or memorabilia, and Richard Sheff is great about posting these pictures and items on the North Texas Chapter of AREA. • Unfortunately, we have to share our aches and pains and doctor visits, but that makes us a good resource for medical recommendations. • We also share new information, new gadgets, new electronics, good deals and savings and just about anything else that may be of interest. • We even do a “Show & Tell” whenever someone gets a new phone, camera, laptop, car or other gadget that might be interesting for the group to see… even a window washing vacuum gadget was recently demonstrated for “Show & Tell”. • Sometimes we have a topic of the week that may be a current news event, and each person at the table gets to express their opinion on the subject or how they would resolve the problem. It takes a group of retirees to solve all the world problems. Too bad no one else has ever bothered to ask us for a solution. • We also pass along magazines and books. Some of us already know who won the wars so we don’t get into the sharing of the war books, but that’s okay because it gives the others a better chance to grab one of those riveting war books. • We also like to try different restaurants for lunch. Every couple of months we choose a restaurant that someone has recommended and instead of the Friday morning coffee at la Madeleine’s we have a luncheon. Spouses usually like to join in for the luncheons so we can get a pretty good group together.

Nancy Minton, Dalton Murayama, Jack Leavitt, John Rogers, Roy Dean and Lina Poffenbarger Tom Minton and Buddy

Chuck Poffenbarger, Linda Dean Harrington

Judy Hanson, Janene Terry, Joe Krivis, John Rogers and Roy Dean Tom Gallagher, Judy Hanson Karen & Dalton Murayama and Janene Terry

The main idea of the weekly coffee is to have some fun, enjoy some laughs, stay informed and most of all spend some time with good friends. Please come and join us when you have some time. You can contact Linda Dean at [email protected] or 817-846-0267 for details and to check on whether the group is meeting for their regular Friday coffee or off on a luncheon adventure. AREA NEWSLETTER July 2018 Pag e 23

PO Box 75138 Duncanville, TX. 75138

New: Jean Crittenden is now President of the Augusta Chapter, effective April 23rd, replacing Cynthia Grzybowski.

I. ACTIVE CHAPTERS: 6. DIX-MCGUIRE CHAPTER BETTY J. O’BRIEN, PRESIDENT

1. ALAMO CHAPTER 15 CARRIAGE DRIVE EASTAMPTON, NJ 08060 LEN FREITAS, PRESIDENT Email: [email protected] 19626 ENCINO KNOLL ST. Phone: 609-288-6425 SAN ANTONIO, TX 78259 [email protected] 7. GOLDEN GATE CHAPTER Hm 210-481-3672 MARY LOU GEIMER, RECORDING SEC. Cell 210-687-8644 1306 ASPEN DRIVE Apply for Membership contact: PACIFICA, CA 94044-3719 [email protected] Phone: 650-355-5213 Point of Contact: 2. ALOHA CHAPTER Chick Kretz BILL ALLGIRE, PRESIDENT 4051 Vineyard Rd. 500 UNIVERSITY AVE., APT. 1137 Novato Ca. 94947 HONOLULU, HI. 96826 [email protected] Email: [email protected] Phone; 415-892-3913 Phone: 808-941-0350 Cell: 650-520-3112

3. AUGUSTA CHAPTER 8. GULF COAST CHAPTER JEAN CRITTENDEN, PRESIDENT STEVE FRIEND, PRESIDENT 4318 CREEKVIEW DRIVE 928 ROANOKE COURT HEPHZIBAH, GA 30815 FORT WALTON BEACH, FL 32547 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Phone: 706-796-0883 Phone: 850-598-4481 Cell: 706-832-6969 9. KANSAS CHAPTER 4. CENTRAL TEXAS CHAPTER WANITA HULETT, PRESIDENT SANDY MORGAN, PRESIDENT 2505 MEADOWLARK ROAD 2721 CHARLESWORTH DR. MILFORD, KS. 66514 AUSTIN, TX 78745 Email: [email protected] Phone 512-444-0029 Phone: 785-238-8656

VICE-PRESIDENT/Point of Contact (POC) 10. KENTUCKIANA CHAPTER Harold Robbins DANA JOHNSON, PRESIDENT 1220 Corona Dr. 1120 Blueball Church Road Austin, TX 78723-2512 Elizabethtown, KY 42701 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Phone: 512-452-2692 Phone: 270-855-9805

5. COLUMBIA RIVER CHAPTER 11. METRO MONTGOMERY CHAPTER RON CLEMENT, PRESIDENT HOUSTON “JOE” FULLER, PRESIDENT 4023 SE 178th COURT 103 WILLIANS ST. VANCOUVER, WASHINGTON 98683 PRATTVILLE, AL 36066 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Phone: 360-574-4290 Phone: 334-365-8930

Pag e 24 July 2018 AREA NEWSLETTER

AREA Chapter Information (continued) 12. NORTH TEXAS CHAPTER II. INFORMAL CHAPTERS: RICHARD SHEFF, PRESIDENT (Meet from time to time.) 2317 MISTY TRAIL LANE FLOWER MOUND, TEXAS 75028 1. PUGET SOUND CHAPTER Email: [email protected] EDITH ODA, POC Phone: 972-691-1959 11525 MADERA GARDENS DR SW Apply for Membership contact: LAKEWOOD, WA 98499 Jerry Cloud, [email protected] Email: [email protected] Phone: 253-588-2424 13. NORTHERN CALIFORNIA CHAPTER JERRI THOMAS, PRESIDENT 2. FT. HOOD AREA 4812 ROCKLAND WAY BARBARA MIMS (POC) FAIR OAKS, CA. 95628 Kempner, TX 76539 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Phone: 916-966-1429 Phone: 254-577-6278 466-3351 Cell 14. SOUTH CAROLINA CHAPTER FRANCES JENKINS 3. TINKER RETIREE GROUP 217 JADETREE DRIVE CATHERINE JONES (POC) HOPKINS, SC 29061 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Phone: 405-259-8025 Phone: 803-783-4044 Home 405-204-5019 Cell 803-200-6349 Cell 4. SPACE COAST CHAPTER 15. SOUTHEASTERN CHAPTER GARY L SMITH, POC JAMES W. MAHONEY, PRESIDENT DEBARY, FL 32713-2346 975 E LAKEHAVEN WAY Email: [email protected] MCDONOUGH, GA 30253-5573 Phone: 386-668-1757 Phone: 770-914-8494 POINT OF CONTACT(POC) 5. NORTH CAROLINA CHAPTER Cindy Cooper RICHARD RAMOS, (POC) Email: [email protected] FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28306 Email: [email protected] 16. VIRGINIA LOVERS CHAPTER Phone: 910-425-4189 BETTY THORNE, PRESIDENT 11316 WILLOW LANE DISPUTANTA, VA 23842 Email: [email protected] Phone: 804-862-1762

17.WEST GEORGIA CHAPTER KRISTINE GROENENBOOM-NEWBOLD, PRESIDENT 53 LAKEVIEW RD. PITTSVIEW, AL 36871 Email: [email protected] Phone: 706-566-8501

AAFES Retired Employees Association P.O. Box 380614, Duncanville, TX. 75138-0614 http://www.aafes.com/about-exchange/retired-employees-association/ AREA NEWSLETTER July 2018 Pag e 25 Pag e 26 July 2018 AREA NEWSLETTER AREA NEWSLETTER July 2018 Pag e 27 Pag e 28 July 2018 AREA NEWSLETTER

PO Box 75138 Duncanville, TX. 75138

SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS

DONORS IN MEMORY OF

EDMOND FITZGERALD EVA FITZGERALD $500.00 EDMOND FITZGERALD BILL BATES $50.00 EDMOND FITZGERALD MEL COHEN $150.00 EDMOND FITZGERALD JOYCE HANSEN $50.00 LARRY GEWELLE IYOKO PAO $50.00 LARRY GREWELLE KEITH YOUNG $50.00 FRANK DIMARTINO JACK HARGIS $50.00 FRANK DIMARTINO WILLARD CAMPBELL $50.00

GENERAL DONATION ROBERT PARDUE $1,000.00 JAMES SAWYER $ 100.00

Note: * denotes non-AAFES retiree **denotes Non member of AREA AREA NEWSLETTER July 2018 Pag e 29 IN REMEMBRANCE—National AREA Members

CARMEN CONTI, 92, died Dec. 8, 2017 in Arlington, TX. The HQ Associate retired in 1987.

SANDRA MORGAN, 81, died Jan. 2, 2018 in Austin, TX. The NAS Fort Worth JRB Department Supervisor retired in 1993.

ROY OTA, 91, died Jan. 14, 2018 in Dallas, TX. The HQ Associate retired in 1983.

DOROTHY WITT, 82, died Jan. 6, 2018 in Dallas, TX. The HQ Executive Vice President for Store Operations retired in 1995.

PAUL KOZO HIROSHIMA April 20, 1927 – May 9, 2018 Paul passed away peacefully in the Methodist Hospital, San Antonio. He was 91 years old. He had the company of his niece June Hiroshima-Lentz and his best friend and neighbor Brenda Brown during that time. He continued to joke and tease until the end. Paul Kozo Hiroshima was born as the third of four sons to Takashi Peter Hiroshima and Sakura Yamamoto Hiroshima in New York, New York. His father was the CEO of an import export company and they returned to Japan when Paul was very young. They lived in Shukugaya, Nishinomiya and he earned a Veternarian degree and was licensed to practice in Japan. He chose to go into the business sector and later with the American government and AAFES where he worked for 30 years retiring in 1982 as Chief, Finance and Accounting Alamo Exchange Region. He was unassuming, kind, generous, humorous and talented. And he was dapper. He loved to play golf, listen to music and collect art. He won awards in photography, drew golf cartoons and carved beautifully detailed boxes finished in lacquer. He loved golf, and music especially classical guitars. Paul was survived by niece June Hiroshima-Lentz of Seattle and nephew Edward Hiroshima of New York; his brother Kosaku Frank Hiroshima and Momoko and their sons Suguru and Hajime in Japan. He was pre-deceased by Jo Lundsford, his longtime love, and his 2 brothers, John Koichi Hiroshima of Tokyo and Ed Koji Hiroshima of New York, and Ed’s wife Shigeko Peggy Hiroshima. He was greatly loved and will be sorely missed. There was a Celebration of Life in the latter part of June.

Other reported deaths (from Chapters and Individuals):

From Donna Young: My husband Keith Frederick Young passed away on Dec 29, 2017 at the age of 95. Keith worked for AAFES as a dairy plant manager in the Philippines from 1967-1985 and a plant specialist in Korea from 1985 to 1987.

From Inga Brooks: “It is with great sadness that I have to tell the AAFES Family of the passing of David W. Brooks passed away on June 11, at the age of 80. Please inform the AREA members.”

From Tanya L. Downing: Dorothy Jean Porter (known by many of us as Dorothy Downing), passed away on June 14, 2018 at the age of 76. She retired from AAFES Headquarters with 24 years of service. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested you make a donation to The Downing Scholarship Fund/Concord Church. You can mail cards to the family at: 2728 Hood Street, Apt. 815, Dallas, TX 75219.

From Marty Handel: On June 21, Else Horosco passed away, caused by a long battle with cancer. She was a dear friend, and will be missed. She no longer has any pain. No other details are available at this time.

WILLS

“From time to time retired associates of AAFES leave bequests to the AREA in their will. If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that prepares your formally written and executed will with the following sample clause. If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause."

"I give (blank dollars/property) to the Army Air Force Exchange Service Retired Employee's Association (AREA), P.O. Box 380614, Duncanville, Texas 75138." Pag e 30 July 2018 AREA NEWSLETTER AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES NEW MEMBERS VALENE HOLMES CHANGES: ADDRESS, STEPHEN BELL 1556 A TOMMY’S RD TELEPHONE, EMAIL 1371 W VIA LA NORIA *MARY THERESA OZBUN GOLDSBORO, NC 27534 SAHUARITA, AR 85629 PSC 103 BOX 4967 EMAIL: [email protected] EMOGENE M. CUPP TEL: 520-867-6303 APO AE 09603 5805 PIEDMONT DR EMAIL: [email protected] RAQUEL KAPLAN ALEXANDER, VA 22310 *MARTHA SPEAKS 405 ESSEX XT TEL: 540-869-9522 1227 S. EDGEFIELD AVE SAN ANTONIO, TX 78210 DANA JOHNSON DALLAS, TX 75208 *PAULINE NIPPER 1120 BLUEBALL CHURCH LELAND HUBBLE RD, TEL: 972-345-2036 338 HOSANNAH RD EMAIL: 20832 VILLAGE PKWY ELIZABETHTOWN, KY LOCUST GROVE, GA 30248 [email protected] CAL CITY, CA 93505 42701 EMAIL: TEL: 270-862-4019 [email protected] BEVERLY CURRY ODIS MITCHELL EMAIL: 361 MT. PLEASANT DR 3950 HORSE RUN GLEN [email protected] COLUMBUS, GA 31907 NEWPORT NEWS, VA 23602 *ROBERT GASKILL

155 RIM ROCK CIRCLE AUBREY STEMPLE EDYE BROOKSHIRE RICK DRAKE PO BOX 261 308 CRESTVIEW DR 3717 LOCKWOOD LN 302 S. ALEXANDER AVE. HUINT, TX 78024 DUNCANVILLE, TX 75116 ARLINGTON, TX 76018 MONTGOMERY, AL 36111 TEL: 830-238-5116 TEL: 972-298-0757 TEL: 817-375-8649 TEL: 334-233-8596 EMAIL: [email protected] EMAIL: [email protected] EMAIL: [email protected] DAVE LUZZATTO CINDY M. ADAMS LINDA MCVEY 5455 LA SIERRA DR, #703 406 LONE OAK CIRCLE 510 CRESTVIEW DR LEONARD W. EVANS DALLAS, TX 75231 EULESS, TX 76039 CHAPMAN, KS 67431 17 EASTHAM LANE TEL: 214-242-9966 TEL: 817-937-6755 POINT PLEASANT, NJ 08742 GEORGE HARTMAN EMAIL: TEL: 732-948-3943 [email protected] 3205 WINDING RIDGE GILBERT PANSZA EMAIL: [email protected] MANSFIELD, TX 76063 8103N. HOLLOW # 124 TEL: 817-729-0594 KAREN GOLLOHER SAN ANTONIO, TX 78240 3260 W. AVENDA, SOMBRA EMAIL: [email protected] OLGA CLAASEN (ELBERT) TUCSON, AZ 85746 5213 N. STERLING SPRINGS ARTHUR MICHAEL DR EUGENE E. MARIETIA DILLON TUCSON, AZ 85749 WILLOW ST CMR 469 BOX 2851 EMAIL: [email protected] APO 09227 ARLINGTON, TX 76002

EMAIL: DELORIS NORRIS [email protected] WILLIAM NIEVES 2001 WALTON FARMS DR. 250 TURNBRIDGE CIR HEPHIZIBAH, GA 30815 RENEE FIGGE PEACHTREE CITY, GA 30269 3108 SPRINGWOOD RD TEL: 817-504-9430 FLOWER MOUND, TX DIANA ELLIOTT EMAIL: [email protected] 796 GREENWOOD DR. TEL: 972-539-8662

NORTH AUGUSTA, EMAIL: [email protected] SOUTH CAROLINA, 29841 EUGENE WHEELER PAULA S. GUNDERSON 102 KADY LYNN WAY EDWINA ROBINSON 1530 SUN CITY, STE. 120 WARNER ROBINS, GA 31088 2920 ARROWWOOD CIR. PMB 451 TEL: 678-451-6221 GEORGETOWN, TX 78633 HEPHZIBAH, GA 30815 EMAIL: EMAIL: [email protected] [email protected]

KRAIG DOBSEN 1716 VERSAILLES AVENUE CONNIE THOMAS

ALLEN TX 75002 5 RIVERSIDE DR TEL: 972-824-1334 FORT MITCHELL, AL 36856 EMAIL: TEL: 706-442-7747 [email protected] EMAIL: [email protected] MARYLOU HARRIS 13459 FERRIS AVE. APPLE VALLEY, MN 55124 Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory AREA NEWSLETTER July 2018 Pag e 31 MEMBERSHIP UPDATE FORM Type of Change (Check All Boxes Below That Apply)

Address Telephone FAX E-Mail Marital Status Other

Enter New Address in “Current Address” block BELOW and List Other Changes Here:

Printed Name Signature Date

TO: AREA (ATTN: Membership Director) CURRENT ADDRESS: PO BOX 380614 Duncanville, TX 75138-0614

Changes will be published in the next AREA newsletter unless you specifically tell us not to print this information. USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS

The following telephone numbers are provided as a convenience to members wishing to contact certain HQ AAFES offices and the Pentagon Federal Credit Union.

HQ SWITCHBOARD (214) 312-2011

FOR RETIREMENT and GROUP INSURANCE BENEFITS: HQ. AAFES BENEFIT BRANCH REPRESENTATIVES (800) 519-3381

GENERAL COUNSEL: DALE HARBOUR (214) 312-3126 EXCHANGE POST: STEVE SMITH, Corporate Communications Editor/Historian, (214) 312-3831 or e-mail [email protected]

SALES TABLOIDS: TABLOID DEPARTMENT (800) 733-5142

ID CARD, PRIVILEGES

HR-S HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICE CAC/ ID cards are issued Monday-Friday (excluding holidays) from 07:30 am – 10:00 am (no appointment needed). Appointments for a time after 10:30 AM can be arranged by emailing [email protected]; or calling HR Techs as follows: Brenda Johnson, (214) 312-2612; Jill Cottle, (214) 312-6531; Sarah Brown, (214)312-6423; or Veneitra Colston-Mack, (214) 312-2531.

Please ensure to bring your CAC/shopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC and/or shopping privilege ID card. If your CAC is expired, you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal and/or State ID’s (such as a driver’s li- cense, US passport, birth certificate, original social security card). Submit questions to: Rhonda Moncrief, HQ Human Resources Man- ager at (214) 312-2006.

PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION: TOLL FREE SERVICE –MEMBER SERVICES

TOLL FREE U.S.: 800-247-5626 Monday - Friday: 7:00 am to 11:00 pm Eastern Time Saturday: 8:00 am to 11:00 pm Eastern Time Sunday: 9:00 am to 5:30 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL: 541-225-6700 TTY (for the hearing impaired: TOLL FREE U.S.: 800 225-6378

FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED: Pat Weaver, Membership Director, (972) 780-9810; e-mail: [email protected]

For other information, check out the Exchange website at: https://www.shopmyexchange.com/ And the AREA website: http://www.aafes.com/about-exchange/retired-employees-association/ AAFES Retired Employees Association P.O. Box 380614 PRSRT STD Duncanville, TX 75138-0614 US POSTAGE PAID DALLAS, TX PERMIT #1478

DUES ALERT! If the last time you renewed your dues was in June 2017 or earlier, please send your $17 dues PAYABLE to AREA at the mailing address shown above.

AAFES Retired Employees Association Printing and mailing the Newsletter has become too expensive so the board discussed and approved these changes at our Spring 2017 board meeting. “New and reinstated members; and existing members with computers (or other e-mail reading devices) who renew their membership; will receive the newsletter via e-mail only.”

You’ll enjoy these advantages:

• Get the Newsletter the first of the month, rather than several days after the beginning of the month.

• The Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) format is in color and you can transfer/save the file as you desire. Here’s what one member said: “The e mail edition is superb. Easy to read, brilliant colors, etc. I can't say enough about it, and would recommend that anyone with a computer get the newsletter this way.” Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver, Membership Director, at [email protected] and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line now and we’ll do the rest. Or, as stated above, new and reinstated members; and existing members with computers (or other e-mail reading devices) who renew their membership; will receive the newsletter via e-mail only.

AREA—JUST FOR YOU