FREA Presidents and FREA History ~ 60 Years of Service

March 2014 Volume 39—No. 3 FREA Presidents and FREA History ~ 60 Years of Service

For 60 years, FREA has had a governing board led by the FREA President. FREA members elect their President to serve for one 2 year term. Like all members of FREA who give of themselves, and their resources, the President’s position is a volunteer position. What, in fact does the FREA President do? More than can be recounted here in any kind of detail, but here is an overview. The President begins their tenure by serving as President-Elect for 2 years, learning and growing into the position, and is present during most of the President’s functions. There are 5 FREA Board Meetings throughout the year at which the President presides. The preparation for these meetings involves many different moving parts, and many different people: 10 State Directors, Special Committee Chairs, Standing Committee Chairs, and usually the continuation of their position inside their local unit. (e.g. President Thelma Mosley is also Membership Chair for Alachua REA). The President is also present at Florida Retired Foundation meetings, as a Trustee Officer, but those meetings are presided over by the FREF Chair. Another of the President’s duties is to preside over the Annual FREA Convention. The convention week is filled with meetings and functions and while the President has little down time during the convention, this is merely the culmination of months of preparation. Before the convention are thousands of details to be handled. The President chooses the convention theme, venue, activities, working with her selected Convention Coordinator and the FREA State Office staff to pull these together into a cohesive whole. The President takes part in multiple conference calls, and travels to the venue on site visits to work on specifics particular to that location. A successful and well attended convention is the President’s reward. Travel is ever-present for the FREA President. In addition to attending the board meetings and the convention, the Fall Leadership Workshops are held yearly in the 10 State Districts. The President, accompanied by the Treasurer, President-Elect, and the State Director, travels for 2 weeks to interact with FREA members from each District. The phrase “A hotel room is a hotel room, is a hotel room, no matter how nice it is,” becomes a reality. Four incredibly busy years go by, and the President prepares to turn the office over to the President-Elect. Does this mean they get to go sit on a beach and eat bon-bons? Not hardly. For the next 2 years, the Past President serves as the Nominating Chairman, whose position is critical to filling State Officer and Board Member positions. This means that 6 years is the length of time an FREA President commits to. Not a small amount of time, and the value of their service cannot be measured in monetary terms, only in thanks and gratitude. At the 60th Anniversary Convention this year, 7 Past Presidents will be attending. (See above picture) They can be identified by a pale ribbon on their name tag, if you do not know them by sight. Please take a moment to thank them for their selfless dedication to FREA and for their continued efforts to ensure that the FREA of the future is as strong and vibrant as the FREA of the past.

Board Of Directors Changed Your E-mail President/4 Thelma Mosley [email protected] address? President Elect/9 Catherine McCartney [email protected] Have you changed your email State Director/7 Fay Murphy [email protected] address, mail address, or phone Secretary/4 Ruth Hickmon [email protected] number? Please send your new Treasurer/6 Marie Grein [email protected] contact info to [email protected] FREF Chairman/4 D. Paul Conley [email protected] so that we may update your District 1 Director Carolyn McLaughlin [email protected] records. District 2 Director Arlene Oehler [email protected] District 3 Director Leanne Karstedt [email protected] District 4 Director Carolyn Stephens [email protected] District 5 Director Bertha Padgett [email protected] District 6 Director Jane Lee [email protected] District 7 Director Constance Besco [email protected] Want to see your Bulletin in District 8 Director Jean Campbell [email protected] full color? District 9 Director Jamie Colborn [email protected] Access it on the front page of District 10 Director Marguerite Falconer [email protected] the website. Committee Chairs www.FREA.org Audit Catherine McCartney [email protected] Benefits Catherine McCartney [email protected] “Get Connected and Stay Budget Marie Grein [email protected] Connected” ByLaws Tom Johnson [email protected] Send us your Newsletters, Convention Coordinator Norma White [email protected] Website, and Facebook Historian Janet Ford [email protected] Information Information Services Mildred Dunlap [email protected] The FREA website is a terrific Legislative Co-Chair Larry Carmichael [email protected] resource to let people know Legislative Co-Chair Linda Edson [email protected] about your unit. On the Home Membership Norma White [email protected] page of the website we have a Memorial Services Chairman Helen Shaw [email protected] page that contains links to the Nominating Esther Twitchell [email protected] local Units’ newsletters, web Parliamentarian Tom Johnson [email protected] pages, or Facebook page. This Travel Coordinator Arlene Ziller [email protected] allows you to get the word out Unit Exhibits Flora Woodfaulk [email protected] about all of the activities and Volunteer Services Jody Scruggs [email protected] accomplishments of your unit. FREF Trustees So if you have not yet sent us District 1 Pamela B Schwartz [email protected] your information, what are you District 2 Beverly Kelley [email protected] waiting for? District 3 Laura Hodges [email protected] Let’s Get Connected! District 4/Chairman D. Paul Conley [email protected] District 5 Carolynne Fooshee [email protected] Questions? [email protected] District 6 Helen Shaw [email protected] FLORIDA RETIRED District 7 R. David Brown [email protected] EDUCATORS ASSOCIATION District 8 Sue Orth [email protected] Affiliated with NRTA: District 9 Janet Ross [email protected] AARP’s Educator Community District 10 Anne French [email protected] 10051 5th Street North, Suite 108 FREA State Office St. Petersburg, FL 33702-2211 Phone: (727) 577-6400; Executive Secretary Barbara Williams [email protected] www.FREA.org — [email protected] Database Administrator Libby Brut [email protected] Submissions may be sent to: Technology/Data Coordinator Anne Fagan [email protected] [email protected] EDITOR’S NOTE: The editors have To send an e-mail to all 3 of the FREA Office Employees: [email protected] exercised the privilege of editing Out of forms you often use? Bulletin material where space was limited or when similar information These are easily accessed by going on the FREA website and clicking on was received. the FREA Forms tab in the Menu. www.FREA.org/forms 2

The President’s Message

Greetings again Colleagues, 2014 has arrived and as the time for the Convention grows closer, the excitement is getting stronger. We are just elated that we have the privilege and pleasure of commemorating the 60th Birthday of FREA at our State Convention this year. It is our sincere hope that each unit will have a special tribute at its April meeting, recognizing April as the official month of organization for FREA in 1954. We are extremely grateful to those members who stayed connected and active with FREA and your units. We appreciate all the hard work you are doing in your communities. Visiits to your unit meetings and reading your newsletters Thelma Mosley have been inspiring, informative, and rewarding. Your commitment and dedication to “serving and not being served” is evident in the activities, volunteer hours, and financial support you give to others. You are great! A special “Thanks” to our past FREA Presidents for their continued support to our State and your local units. You are gems! As we turn our attention to the State Convention, a special invitation is extended to All members. Come celebrate with us the sixty years of service by members of our organization. Come hear some interesting speakers, chat with old friends, make new ones, enjoy some delicious food, and tour the famous World Golf Hall of Fame and Museum, at the World Golf Village. You will not have to leave the premises for any of our activities this year. We will recognize units and individuals at this meeting. Come celebrate with them! We will continue the wonderful work of the Margaret Poppell Literacy for Life Project for an elementary school in St. Johns County this year. Please bring your books, cash, or gift cards to purchase books for the Otis Mason Elementary School in St. Augustine. Also, our Unit Display Chairman and State Historian, request that you get your forms and pictures in to them on time. This will help them with their tasks as they plan for the 60th Anniversary Celebration in St. Augustine. For the second year, we will be giving The Thelma Mosley Attendance Award to each District to celebrate the Unit that has the most attendees to the Convention. Will your Unit win the award? We have a special added prize for the winning units. Finally, it saddened us to learn of the loss of two past State officers, Barbara Leon and Margaret Poppell. Barbara served as the state Secretary and was currently serving as the District 10 Information Services Chair and Margaret served as the Literacy State Chair and also the 5th Grade Essay Contest Coordinator. We extend our sympathy to their families and units. Each one will be missed. Looking forward to seeing you in St. Augustine at the State Convention, May 28 – 30, 2014.

Thelma J. Mosley, FREA President Workshops Move to October

District Location Date District Location Date

1 Milton Monday October 6th 6 Clearwater Monday October 13th

2 Carrabelle Tuesday October 7th 7 Cape Coral Tuesday October 14th

3 TBA Wednesday October 8th 10 Pompano Beach Wednesday October 15th

5 Jacksonville Thursday October 9th 9 Okeechobee Thursday October 16th

4 TBA Friday October 10rh 8 Kissimmee Friday October 17th 3

Taste-buds Are-a-Calling—FREF Country Store Gift Baskets It’s Convention time and you are there, at Galore! the beautiful Renaissance World Golf Resort. It Last year the FREF is late in the afternoon, you walk into your Country Store sumptuous room at the Renaissance, with time displayed before leaving for the evening, or...you are in wonderfully creative your room, and it is time to go to sleep, but you gift baskets that contained every wish you had just a little something to nibble theme from an Italian Dinner to a on. Day at the Beach. These are Not to worry, because this year we are incredibly popular items for the extending the challenge to have members show Dollars for Scholars Auction, so off their baking and snack-making skills. We want to stock the Country let’s do it again this year! Store with affordable homemade goodies that can be used as room snacks during the Convention. This is a great way to show other Got Stuff? members your skills, and help the Foundation at the same time. Don’t buy So come on! Get out those Banana Chocolate–Chip Cranberry Bread another storage recipes, use up some of your garden’s zucchini, make some jam or shed, or cram pumpkin butter and bring it in little baskets with crackers... Think about one more thing portions that can be sold for a dollar or two and package accordingly— into that closet! with labels please. If you would like to include recipe cards, Bring your gently used or new do so. Bragging is allowed! The goal is to have full tables on Wednesday, and empty tables by Thursday afternoon! Let’s items to the Convention and let get baking, and show some love for FREF Dollars for Scholars! them go to a new home.

Keynote Speaker Betty Burney is a Star in her own right

FREA is honored to have as its Keynote Speaker for the FREA 60th Anniversary Convention, Betty Seabrook Burney. Betty Seabrook Burney is the founder and Executive Director of the “I’M A STAR” Foundation. A foundation committed to empowering and equipping youth to transform themselves into Betty Seabrook Burney solutions-oriented leaders in their schools and respective communities. Burney is a former Duval County School Board member who joined the Duval County School Board in November 2004 and held the distinction of serving as a two time Board Chairman (2006 and 2011) and a two-time Vice Chairman (2005 and 2010). At the end of her term as Chairman Duval County achieved the distinction of having all chronically low performing schools exit the state of Florida’s intervene list. Burney serves as a consultant for the Center for Reform of School Systems where she works with School Boards and Superintendents to provide technical assistance on governance strategies and practices designed to impact student achievement and to narrow the academic achievement gap. In 2013, Betty was asked by management of the WCGL radio station to serve as a community service radio talk show host; The Betty Burney Empowerment Hour is a live radio talk show that empowers the community with information. She is formerly the Executive Director of The Project Reach Foundation, Inc. and served as owner/director of Kidsville Learning Center, Inc. for 14 years. She is a Raines High School graduate, holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Miami and a Master of Arts in Public Administration from Northern Illinois University. Ms. Burney is a motivational speaker and author of the nationally-recognized book, “If These Chains Could Talk” which is comprised of letters of advice from incarcerated inmates ages 13-18. "Never leave your child because a child needs both a mother and a father," 17-year-old "Kyle," who is charged with murder, told Burney. "I know my life would be different if my father was around. I have not seen him in three years. When he was with my mother I was a straight-A student. He left when I was 7 and I had to become the man of the house. ... A mother cannot play the male role. I started smoking weed when I was 7 years of age -- my cousin and my brother got me started ..." Betty Burney is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, NAACP Education Committee, and serves on the Board of the Professional Opportunities Program for Students, Communities In Schools, City Year and Inventing Futures, Inc. Betty is married to Calvin Burney, Sr. and they have two sons, Calvin, Jr. and Craig who are successful graduates of the Duval County Public School system. I'm a Star Foundation student members present a $20,000 check to School Superintendent Nikolai Vitti and School Board Chairman Fel Lee for the homeless education program. Summer2013 Photo Provided by Betty Burney 5

2014 FREA 60th Anniversary Convention FREF Trustees (Outgoing & Incoming) Meeting (1:30 PM) Tuesday Registration: Open until 6:00 PM May 27, 2014 Executive Committee Meeting Board of Directors Dinner Meeting Registration: Open until 4:00 PM Board of Directors Meeting-Continued Wednesday District Directors Meeting May 28, 2014 Unit Exhibits FREF Fundraising Project OPENING GENERAL SESSION ALL DELEGATES MUST ATTEND OPENING SESSION (1:30 PM) Keynote Speaker: Registrar’s Report Betty Burney Minutes of 2013 Convention (Details on Page 5 of Bulletin) Treasurer's Report •Proposed Budget • Nominating Report • FREF Report FREF Fundraising Project State Committee and Special Breakout Sessions Limited Space Available: Join us as we tee off for an evening of frivolity Wednesday Night Activity and good food at the beautiful museum that celebrates the World of Scavenger Hunt and Dinner at Golf. The Scavenger Hunt guides you through in a fun way, and there are the World Golf Hall of Fame excellent prizes to the winners. The museum has exhibits to appeal to “Fore!!!” even those who think, as Mark Twain did, “Golf, a good walk spoiled”. Giving respect to excellence is always worthwhile, and these golfers, to (What does this actually mean? See make it into the World Golf Hall of Fame, had to be just that: page 13 of the Bulletin) Excellent. (Did you know…? Probably not. See page 13)

Unit President’s Breakfast Meeting—Cash ’N‘ Carry available Thursday AM Registration Open May 29, 2014 Unit Exhibits and FREF Fund Raising Project continues SECOND GENERAL SESSION District Meetings Roll Call of Merit and Membership Awards ~ FREF Honor Roll

Memorial Service Thursday PM Legislative THIRD GENERAL SESSION FRS Update Volunteer Services Do you want to join us or “Hear It Through The Grapevine” about how much fun we all had at the 60th Anniversary Gala Dinner and Dance? Join your President, Thelma Mosley, as we celebrate all things FREA. Thursday Night Reception: Each attendee at the gala will receive a special commemorative gift, 60th Anniversary Gala enjoy a delicious meal, and then let “People Get Ready” as the musical stylings of Mr. Rodney Hurst pull you out on the dance floor. You can watch “What’s Goin’ On” as you try to stay seated on “Cloud 9”, but we Music and Dance Styling by think you will soon “Electric Slide” out of your chair. And while we Mr. Rodney Hurst probably won’t stay awake long enough to take “The Midnight Train to Georgia, there will be plenty of chances to see who “Ain’t To Proud To Beg” someone to dance with them. See page 11 of the Bulletin for more details on Mr. Hurst and to see if you know the history of Rhythm and Blues as well as you thought you did. FREA Board Meeting Friday AM Unit Exhibits open for pick-up of displays FREF Fundraising Project ends—Please Pick up items May 30, 2013  Install Officers and Trustees CLOSING SESSION  FREF Fundraising Report  FREF Extravaganza Drawing 6

Unit/County Name:______FREA 2014 Convention INDIVIDUAL Hotel and Meal Reservation Form Each paid-up FREA member is eligible and welcome to attend the Convention Avoid the $15.00 Late Fee—Return postmarked BEFORE April 11, 2014 (Please Print) Don’t want to tear apart the Bulletin? Print this form off the website: www.FREA.org/Convention2014 Please circle: Delegate, Alternate, Member, Visitor, Life Member Phone: _____-______-______Name: E-Mail:

Name for Badge 1st time attendee? Yes No Address City State Zip Others in room: Full Name(s) ALL OTHERS MUST COMPLETE THEIR OWN INDIVIDUAL RESERVATION FORM IMPORTANT NOTICES 4 P.M. is check-in: Hotel may not have room available until after 4 PM Early check-out Fee: The hotel will impose an early check-out fee of $99.00 if a guest in our group checks out prior to original check-out date. To avoid fee advise hotel at check-in of any change in length of stay. Delegate cancellation: Reservation must be cancelled with Registrar or the unit/individual is responsible for charges.

Please Complete ALL Information

Handicap ____ Non-Smoking ____ Double Beds ____ King Bed ____ Rollaway ____

Arrival Day ______Date: May ____ 2014 ~ Departure Day ______Date: May ____ 2014 $99.00 a night Special Room Rate applies 3 days before & 3 days after Convention No charge for extra persons or rollaway bed Handicap Room - Please Specify all needs:

Registration - PAID BY ALL attendees $40.00 x (# of People) = $

Late Fee (If registration is postmarked after April 11th) $15.00 x (# of People) = $ PLEASE RESERVE: Hotel - Number of Nights - (Delegate—2 Nights No Charge) $99.00 x # extra night/s = $

WEDNESDAY : An FREA Exclusive—World Golf Hall of Fame Scavenger Hunt & Dinner—150 Attendees—First Come Basis $70.00 x # ticket/s = $ - Details in March Bulletin Article and on FREA website THURSDAY - Unit President’s Breakfast Meeting - 1 Unit Rep only—Cash Attend? Yes No -0- ‘n’ Carry Breakfast Available Outside the Room

THURSDAY - Gala Banquet (PAID BY ALL who wish to attend) $57.00 x # ticket/s = $ Entrée: Seared Pork Tenderloin

SPECIAL MEAL REQUESTS (MUST BE ON THIS RESERVATION FORM):

Check # TOTAL Enclosed $

A Check or Money Order of Full Amount Due MUST Accompany EACH Reservation Form

District Director Nominees Melanie H. Waite – District 1 Director Melanie Waite is the District 1 Director nominee. Melanie graduated from Terrebonne High School in Houma, La, then attended Louisiana State University, University of New Orleans, LSU Medical School, Nicholls State University (BS in Health, PE, and French); University of Southern Miss. (M.Ed. in Health, PE, and Recreation), Pensacola State College, and University of West Florida. “I’m still trying to decide what to do when I grow up, so I keep trying different things. I substitute teach and am a Tastefully Simple consultant (need any food products?). But mostly I volunteer. As a sea turtle monitor at Gulf Islands National Seashore since 1993, I have found more nests than any other volunteer and escorted thousands of hatchlings to the Gulf of Mexico. I guide haunted history and museum tours for the Pensacola Historical Society. As Secretary of the Krewe of Wrecks I am instrumental in putting on the Krewe of Wrecks Pensacola Beach Mardi Gras Parade, and chair the Queens Dinner. Last but certainly not least, I am the reigning Queen Sugah of the Wooly Boogers and thus am Melanie Waite responsible for keeping hurricanes away from Pensacola Beach.” Melanie is the President of Santa Rosa REA, and has served as Vice President, Audit Committee Chair and on the 5th Grade Essay Committee. Arlene M. Oehler – District 2 Director Arlene Oehler, District 2 Director nominee, is a member of the Franklin/Gulf REA and has served as President and Vice President, Literacy Chairman and Public Relations chairman. She is currently District 2 Director and District 2 Literacy chairman. She was an Elementary Principal when she retired from Wilmington, Ohio in 1995 and accepted a position as an Elementary Principal for two years in the Sitka School District in Alaska. She worked as the Sitka Fine Arts Camp Director from 1997-2000 and moved to Florida in 2000. Arlene has a strong interest in historic preservation and was president of the Carrabelle Lighthouse Association and currently serves as CLA Co-Treasurer. Arlene works on the Arlene Oehler Franklin County Take Stock in Children as Scholarship Coordinator.

Leanne M. Karstedt - District 3 Director Leanne M. Karstedt is the District 3 Director Nominee. She is currently serving as Director of District 3, and served as President of the Taylor County Retired Educators Association. Ms. Karstedt graduated from a high school an ocean away from Florida: Dreux Air Force Base, Dreux, France. Graduated from Florida State University, she then went on to become a teacher at the Perry Primary School, in Perry Florida where she taught Kindergarten Art, and PE/Health classes. Leanne’s enjoyment of art is manifested in her secondary career as a photographer and a professional videographer. She recently served as Chairman for a Relay for Life event that honors the survivors of, and those who have been lost to, cancer. The event benefits the American Cancer Society. Leanne Karstedt Alonzo Braddon, Jr. - District 4 Director Alonzo Braddon, Jr. is the District 4 Director Nominee. Born in Louisville, Kentucky he came to Florida when he was adopted as a child. He attended Marion County Schools from kindergarten thru high school. He then attended Hampton Jr College, transferred to Bethune Cookman, worked for a year as a Teacher Aide/Substitute went back to Bethune-Cookman and received his B. A. in Music August of 1970. In 1980 he received his Master’s degree in Administration/Supervision from Stetson University He was the first Band Director at Vanguard High School (1970), which was a new high school in Ocala at the time, and was there for 31.5 years. “Being a first year Band Director just out of college, a brand new high school with no instruments, no music, was a little scary for a first year Alonzo Braddon teacher and I enjoyed every bit of it.” He is a Florida Bandmaster Assoc. certified judge, member of MENC, FMEA, ASBDA (music organizations), FBA District Chairman 1998-2000, and served on several state committees. After retirement he served on the board of: Optimist Club of Ocala, Governor’s West, Front Porch. He also works with Marion Civic Chorale, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., MCREA and a few more. Bertha M. Padgett – District 5 Director Bertha Padgett, District 5 Director nominee, is the current District 5 Director and the Duval REA Historian. She has attended four State Conventions and last year won 1st place in the best 50’s outfit contest. She has her Bachelors of Science Degree in Education and retired from John Stockton Elementary School in Duval County where she taught 2nd grade. She worked in the school district thirty five+ years. At time of retirement she was a teacher and Director of the After-School program. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and has chaired the Cluster III meeting, the South Atlantic Regional Conference and the Gamma Rho Omega Debutante Coterie. Bertha went to Bertha Padgett South Africa with the sorority to build ten schools. 8

FREA President-Elect Nominee for 2014 – Roger C. Cuevas

Roger stated in his biography that he has worn many hats in his lifetime. He grew up in a family of bakers and became a baker by trade and opened his own bakery. But it was not his life calling and decided to change careers and go into the field of education. He attended Miami Dade Community College, Florida Atlantic University and University of No. Colorado. Roger started as a primary teacher and was fortunate to have had the opportunity to serve students at many different levels. He went on as Assistant Principal, Principal, a District Administrator and served as Miami Dade County Superintendent. Roger is married and has three children. He is presently the Miami Dade REA Legislative Chair and the President. He has served on the State Audit Committee and is currently on the State Legislative Committee representing District 10. Roger Cuevas FREF Trustee Nominees Leila W. Pratt – District 4 Trustee Leila Pratt quotes, R. L. Sharpe, “Each is given a bag of tools, a shapeless mass, a book of rules; and each must make, ere life is flown, a stumbling block or a stepping stone. “I have used the tools God has given to me (my education and experiences) to dedicate over 40 years of my life in service to others, as a psychologist, therapist, counselor, educator, and as an active volunteer within the community ...” She received her Doctorate Degree from the University of Florida in School Psychology; Nova University in Administration; Masters University of Florida in Counseling; and Bachelor’s Degree from Florida A & M University in Psychology. She has been active among several groups: Delta Sigma Theta Sorority; The Visionaries, Inc.; and Services to Youth Chairperson. She has served as Chair of the Alachua REA FREF Scholarship committee since 2006. She handles scholarships at the local level, She has been a member of FREA and Alachua REA since Leila Pratt 2003. She was the District 4 Volunteer of the Year in 2009 and 2012 and received the NRTA With our Youth Award in 2012. Carolynne K. Fooshee – District 5 Trustee Carolynne Fooshee is the District 5 Trustee Nominee - Carolynne graduated with her B.S. from Blue Mountain College in Mississippi. Her Masters, with majors in Art, Vocational Home Economics and Science was earned at the University of Mississippi In 35 years with the Duval County School System, her teaching spanned elementary through college level classes in the areas of Art, Vocational Home Economics, TV Production, and Reading. At the time of her retirement, she was working at several different positions: Family and Consumer Science Dept. Chair, Art Dept. Chair, TV Production, FHA Sponsor and Four-H Sponsor. She has also given her time as Sunday School Teacher and Mission Activities Leader at Neptune Baptist Church for over 40 years. She has been a Four-H Leader and County Foundation Board Member for over 30 years. She has been the Carolynne Fooshee Parliamentarian and By Laws Chair, as well as an FREF trustee.

Janet Ross - District 9 Trustee Janet Ross is the nominee for District 9 Trustee —Janet “Jan” Ross has a BA from Carroll University in Waukesha, WI and an MA in Humanities at NYC. French and English were her secondary subjects. She taught 9th and 11th grade English at Kettle Moraine High School in Wales, Wisconsin. She retired from Wisconsin, but not was not ready to entirely retire. Upon moving to Florida she taught one butyear at Martin County High School. She is single and has four children. In 1998 Jan served in the Peace corps in Madagascar as an English teacher Trainer. Jan has been very active in her local Martin REA, serving as President and Vice President. Always creative, Jan has raised money for FREF by finger knitting caps and dishcloths. Janet Ross

Anne F. French - District 10 Trustee Anne F. French District 10 Trustee, after earning her BA in Sociology and Education at the University of Maine, moved to Florida and received her Master’s in Educational Administration from Florida Atlantic University. Her career in the education field, as suggested by the subject matter of her Educational Administration Degree, resulted in limited classroom experience. However, as the Coordinator of Volunteer Services, she worked continually with students in placing them into volunteer situations throughout the community. She was the Chairperson for the 2010 Fall District 10 Workshop. She works for the Taste of the Island Fundraiser as a restaurant facilitator, and also co-chairs an annual block party in her neighborhood, along with Lizzie, her canine buddy. Anne French 9

Legislative Update: The FRS Battle Continues Written by Linda Edson - Legislative Co-Chair The battle lines are now being drawn in Tallahassee. Tuesday, Feb. 18, the Community Affairs Committee met to discuss 2 future retirement plan bills. Currently all employees are able to put money into a deferred savings account and it is totally an opt-in program. When the employee retires they may withdraw the money they saved from this account. Bill SBP 7038 - concerned a deferred compensation plan. SBP 7038 gives Linda Edson all state employees a chance to "opt in or out" of a plan that would require Larry Carmichael the state to match up to $1200 a year for any funds put into a deferred compensation plan. This money would be set aside to supplement a worker's retirement. Senator Simpson, the bill's sponsor, said there were no strings attached to this bill. He said the state would be required to pay up to $1200 a year in matching funds for all state workers. (I thought it was interesting that there was no question as to the amount of money this would cost the taxpayers.) This bill passed with 100% of the vote. Bill SBP 7046 – Introduced by Senator Simpson changes the Florida Retirement Pension Plan drastically. SBP 7046 puts all new teachers and state employees hired after June 2015 into a Cash Balance or Investment plan. Special Risk employees will still have the option of joining a pension plan. Sen. Simpson said this plan was needed to reduce the risk of a pension plan on the State of Florida. The discussion began on the fact that the actuary study has not been completed. Thus, this committee would vote without any facts. It was pointed out that if this is such an excellent program, why exempt the risk class employees? Sen. Soto (D-Kissimmee) said that the member of the State Board of Administration (SBA) explained to the House that the Cash Balance Plan would pay about 40% of the pension plan. Sen. Simpson said that the money put aside in the deferred compensation accounts would help fill in this gap. Representatives of the police, retirees, and our own Larry Carmichael spoke against this bill. Larry did an excellent job pointing out four facts: 1. “After reading through SB 7046, my understanding of the proposed “Cash Balance Plan” is that it is much like the current FRS Investment Plan except that it would guarantee the employee’s retirement investment portfolio would earn a minimum of 2% return during hard times for investors. According to a report given on December 9 to the SBA Investment Advisory Council, with the current required contribution rate to the FRS Investment Plan, a person entering the plan with a beginning salary of $25,000, then working for thirty years while gaining average salary increases, could expect to annuitize his portfolio and receive a monthly benefit of $800 based upon an average return of 6% over the 30 years. If that percent average return were to be 7%, his monthly benefit would increase to $1,200. The point is that there is basically no retirement security offered by this plan. 2. “An elder person with no pension is 6 times more likely to be below the poverty level of income than one with a pension. I don’t have the figures of how many of the approximately 300,000 FRS pensioners are currently living in poverty, but if we use the conservative hypothetical number of 20,000, then we could expect the number would likely grow to 120,000 if we close the pension plan. This would mean an additional 100,000 persons eligible for Medicaid and food stamps (poverty level). 3. “$2 of every $3 paid in pension benefits to retirees comes from investment earnings by the SBA. With the requirement that employees must contribute 3% of the required contribution, this means that for approximately 70 cents investment in the employee’s pension fund, the taxpayers get $3 put back into the economy when the employee retires. 4. “The last point regards sustainability. When the FRS was created in 1970, it was only 40% funded; 28 years later it became 100% funded. Senator Simpson, I am not an expert in the area, and we do have experts in this audience who could address this issue, but if we had $126B in the FRS Trust fund in 2012 with an unfunded liability of $19B, I just can’t see how the unfunded liability would grow to $21B in 2013 when the Trust fund had $141B. That would mean our actuarial liability grew by $18B in one year.” SPB 7046 narrowly passed by a 4-5 margin. Senator Latvala, the only Republican to do so, voted "no" on this bill-crossing party lines. Senator Latvala was instrumental in defeating the FRS bill last year. This bill is now SB 1114 and it will move through the Senate. The next stop for SB 1114 will be the Government Operations Committee, Chaired by Jeremy Ring. Below is a list of the members on the Community Affairs Committee. Feel free to let them know your opinion about their vote. Don’t know how to do so? Contact your Legislative Unit Chair and look on www.frea.org for a wealth of information and links to the Florida Government Wilton Simpson Chair - R - New Port Richie Yes Chris Smith – D - Oakland Park No Geri Thompson Vice Chair - D- Orlando No Darren Soto – D – Kissimmee No Rob Bradley - R - Orange Park Yes Kelli Stargel – R - Lakeland Yes Dorothy Hukill - R - Orange Park Yes John Thrasher R St. Augustine Yes Jack Latvala – R - Clearwater No 10

This DJ’s Depth Covers More than his Music With an extensive recorded music library, Rodney Hurst spends what he calls quality time as an Old School DJ specializing in “spinning” Old School R&B and Classic Motown Music. However, when not moving and grooving to R&B and Motown, Mr. Hurst’s biography is impressive and filled with a lifetime of work dedicated to improving the world around him. He gave the Keynote address at the 2013 Nassau County Annual Martin Luther King Breakfast; and was the Featured Speaker at the 2013 Induction Ceremony of the Florida Civil Rights Hall of Fame. His philosophy is, “If we do not teach them, they will never learn”. Hurst, serves on a number of Boards and Agencies in the Jacksonville Community, including the Executive Committee of the Jacksonville Branch NAACP. He served as one of the Honorary Co-Chairs of Rodney Hurst the National Convention of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) October 2013 in Jacksonville. Hurst and his wife Ann have been married for more than 47 years. They have two sons, Todd, and Rodney, and two granddaughters Marquiette and Jasmine. He is a member of the Bethel Baptist Institutional Church in Jacksonville Florida. Get Ready to Enjoy our Thursday Night Gala—Some Fun Facts about The History of Motown and Rhythm and Blues Did you know? Motown founder Berry Gordy was once a professional boxer before the US army draft for the Korean War put paid to his fighting ambition. In 1959 he created Motown with a loan from his father. Did you know? Billboard’s journalist Jerry Wexler was the one who coined the term “Rhythm and Blues” in 1948. The genre was a term to refer to African-American music. Did you know? The Beatles were hugely influenced by Motown & recorded cover versions of four Motown tracks. Did you know? Motown was the first record label to run its own 'charm school' for artists who were taught how to perform. Did you know? Who started R&B. No person can be credited for such genre since it was further developed by the concerted efforts of African-American jazz, blues, funk, and soul performers. The early R&B musicians who have really shaped the genre are Ray Charles, Little Richard and James Brown. The first group to top in Billboard’s R&B hit chart was Paul Williams and His Hucklebuckers with the song “The Huckle-Buck”. Did you know? In 1966 Berry Gordy refused to sign the Jackson Five because he didn't want to work with any more children. It was Gladys Knight who persuaded him to change his mind a year later. Did you know? Dreamgirls was believed to have been based on the story of Diana Ross and The Supremes. Rumour had it that The Supremes' Florence Ballard, was asked to take a back seat in favor of more photogenic Diana Ross. Did you know? “Hello” by Lionel Richie and Stevie Wonder's “I Just Called To Say I Love You” were two of the biggest-selling Motown singles. Did you know? The Funk Brothers - the unsung heroes of the Motown success story - performed on more number one hits than the Beatles, Elvis, the Rolling Stones and the Beach Boys combined. Did you know? Motown is the only record label to get into the Collins English dictionary. Did you know? Meatloaf was once signed to the label. He performed with Shaun Murphy under the name of Stoney and Meatloaf. Did you know? What is the difference between Soul and RnB? A lot of people are quite confused about the differences between these two genres. To remedy that, let us first understand the roots of RnB and Soul: R&B is certainly derived from core genres such as jazz, funk and blues. Traditional RnB instruments were usually composed of brass instruments and woodwinds. Piano and drums were also incorporated in this music style. Though it’s a derivative of jazz, R&B music verges on a heavier yet steady beat—in this case, multiple instruments create multiple layers of sound. In the 1940s, R&B music was meant to be catchy and danceable. Later on, the genre was notable for its suggestive lyrics and electric guitar riffs. R&B songs from then on covered a wide array of subjects especially pertaining to love and relationships. Soul, on the other hand, is a combination of elements from Gospel music and Rhythm and Blues. The most notable feature in this genre is its funkier style—stressed by body moves like hand claps—and vocal dynamics such as runs and riffs. Examples of Soul artists include Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and Smokey Robinson. 11

Enlightening, There’s Still Time! Entertaining, Commemorative Program Ad and Educational Opportunity Unit Exhibits Deadline Extended to April 1 for the 2014 60th Anniversary Convention! FREA is Celebrating its’ 60th Anniversary by publishing a Unit Exhibit Chair Flora Woodfaulk has a big old Commemorative Convention Program. Units who would room she is looking to fill with exhibits from like to place an ad in the program are invited to share FREA Units all over the state. Last year’s their good wishes and thoughts with all who attend the exhibits were excellent, but as you retired Convention. The Ads are available in 1/4 ($25), 1/2 educators know, there is always room for ($50), and full page ($100) sizes. A full page in the improvement. Up for the Challenge? We know program is 8.5” high and 5.5” wide. Any unit placing an you are! Put on your thinking caps, rev those ad in the program will receive an 8x10 glossy print of the creative juices and help us make these exhibits ad, suitable for framing. Please call Anne at the FREA the best ever! Reservation form? office and she will send you a reservation form, or you can Contact Flora: 850-584-7726 - [email protected] download one from the website: www.FREA.org. It is on the Deadline: Friday, April 18 2014 Convention Page

Notice To All Units State Scrapbook - Establish Your Bragging Rights! Janet Ford, State Historian I know from reading Unit Newsletters that there is an abundance of activities happening everywhere in all FREA Units. Units, show us what your members have been doing this last year, collect photos of those activities & send them to be included in the 2014 State Scrapbook. The book will be on display at the 2014 State Convention in St. Augustine and, goes out on the road to all the Fall District Director Leadership Workshops in every FREA State District. A reminder of NEW GUIDELINES:  Limit unit submissions to no more than 12 pieces, not pages (photos, clippings, etc.)  Make hard copies of photos. Put this information on the BACK:  District number, Unit name (use county name, not initials), names of those pictured and a brief description of the activity.  Workshop Programs are a MUST!  Newsletters will only be used as fillers when necessary. Unit Directories should not be sent. Deadline for sending materials to the State Historian is March 15th. Think its too late? Check with Janet Please do not send these materials to the St Pete office. Hopefully, we can have a wonderful display from all units throughout State Historian Janet Ford double checks the State Scrapbook before the 2013 the state! Convention opens. We had photos and Send all submissions to the below address or e-mail and if you have any news from all FREA units, and she is questions or concerns, please contact JANET FORD looking to equal the success of last year 715 Beech Road West Palm Beach FL 33409-6111 561-683-3665 at the upcoming 2014 Convention. Please help her by getting your articles [email protected] and photos in ASAP. 12

Join us in learning Fun Facts about the game of golf and let’s get ready to celebrate FREA’s 60th Anniversary at the Renaissance World Golf Village Resort, home of the World Golf Hall of Fame and the location for our Wednesday Night Scavenger Hunt and Dinner!

Did you know? Breaking Barriers - Long before Annika Sorenstam competed in the 2003 Bank of America Colonial, Babe Zaharias became the first – and only – female golfer to make the cut at a PGA TOUR event, shooting 76 and 81 during the first two rounds of the 1945 Los Angeles Open. Did you know? Splash! - Every year, roughly 125,000 balls are hit into the water surrounding TPC Sawgrass’ world-renowned island green 17th hole. During the 2013 Players Championship, 44 balls were lost. But two errant shots received more media coverage than any other. Attempting to capture his second Players Championship, Sergio Garcia carded an untimely quadruple bogey seven at the 17th on Sunday, losing two balls – and the tournament – in the process. FYI: There is a duplicate of that hole at the World Golf Hall of Fame—Come to St. Augustine and get ready to try it at our Convention in May! Did you know? Break Needed - One of the world’s most popular actors, Samuel L. Jackson, is also an avid golfer. In fact, the star of flicks like “Pulp Fiction” and “Django Unchained,” has a contract clause to play golf twice a week whenever he films movies. Did you know? Ad-Libbed - “Cinderella story. Outta nowhere. A former greens keeper, now, about to become the Masters champion.” A cult classic, “Caddyshack” delivers one memorable movie line after another. But few are quoted as often as greens keeper Carl Spackler’s Masters reference, as he imagines winning the tournament, while swinging away at flowers with a garden tool. Incredibly, the entire scene was improvised by comedic legend Bill Murray. FYI: The restaurant chain started by Bill Murphy and his brother is on the property at the World Golf Hall of Fame. D i d you know? "Fore" is another word for "ahead" (think of a ship's fore and aft). Yelling "fore" is simply a shorter way to yell "watch out ahead" (or "watch out before"). It allows golfers to be forewarned, in other words. The British Golf Museum cites an 1881 reference to "fore" in a golf book, establishing that the term was already in use at that early date (the USGA suggests the term may have been in use as early as the 1700s). Did you know? Bring Your Parka - Northern Canadian territory Nunavut’s annual Toonik Tyme Festival includes a nine-hole golf tournament. With temperatures well below freezing, golfers play on a sheet of ice, using fluorescent balls, in fear of losing them in the snow. Did you know? Turkey and Cattle - In the midst of World War II, Augusta National Golf Club closed for three years, and cattle and turkey were raised on the grounds to support the war effort. The Masters was not contested again until 1946. That year, Herman Keiser won his only major championship, defeating Ben Hogan by one shot. Did you know? Speed Round - Alice Miller presently holds the LPGA Tour’s record for fastest round, completing 18 holes in one hour, 26 minutes, and 44 seconds. The record was established during the final round of the 1997 Welch’s/Circle K Championship. Did you know? Walk It Off - If you choose to walk, rather than ride 18 holes, you will not only walk roughly four miles, but also burn 2,000 calories. To compare, golfers that ride carts burn about 1,300 calories. Did you know? Apollo 14 member Alan Shepard hit two balls on the lunar surface with a six-iron, making it one of only two sports played on the moon. Photo by Retronautmpare

FREA Volunteer Spotlight She Spoke Softly and Congratulations to the Wielded a Big Pen Former FREA State Secretary and 2013 National Philanthropy Day District 10 Information Services Chair Barbara Leon left us in December of Award Recipient: Pam Schwartz 2013. She served as the FREA State Secretary from 2004-2008 and was the current Chair for District 10 Information Services. Being the Secretary, is a Barbara Leon quiet, but very important position, and Barbara is remembered as being highly accurate and always pleasant as she recorded the meeting minutes for both the FREA meetings and the annual State Convention.

Submitted By: Annette Literacy Loses A Champion Massicotte, Publicity Chair of the Margaret Virginia Johnson Poppell, 89, wife, mother, Escambia Retired Educators grandmother, teacher and volunteer extraordinaire passed Association away Wednesday, January 16, Pam Schwartz, FREF District 1 2014. Margaret taught Business Trustee and Chair for Escambia FREF Committee, Education at Escambia High School for 33 years. She continued received the Outstanding Philanthropist award from to follow her passion for teaching the 2013 National Philanthropy committee and was and helping others through recognized at a luncheon at the Hilton Pensacola various organizations in Escambia Beach on November 15,2013. County including: Learn to Read The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Northwest Florida, First Book, represents more than 30,000 members in over 229 Escambia County Retired Educators, Council on Aging, chapters throughout the world, working to advance Guardian Ad Litem and many philanthropy through advocacy, research, education, others. and certification programs. The association fosters Margaret served as FREA State Margaret Poppell development and growth of fundraising professionals Health Chair from 1992-1993 and and promotes high ethical standards in the fundraising Literacy Chair from 1993 to 2012 and then as the 5th Grade Essay Contest Coordinator until her death. In 2012 profession. the Margaret Poppell Literacy For Life Project was created Congratulations Pam, and Thank You! in her honor. The project is dedicated to donating books to schools and organization that are in need. The project Did You Know? The Nonprofit Sector in Florida: will live on, as will the fond memories of all those who • Is the fourth largest employer among Florida have ever met or worked with her. industries “I knew Margaret for more than 20 years. Even as her • Between Nonprofits and Foundations, it holds physical body started to fail her, she was still out there assets exceeding $91 billion doing things that mattered. Every single day that she was • Generates more than $48 billion in total revenue, able, she overcame pain, etc. and got out there and did expending over $44 billion something for someone. She will continue to be an • Generates more than $61 billion in total inspiration to me, just as my own mother is, forever…” economic activity Georgia Brazzell, Pensacola “We are truly sad to hear of the home going of one of our Spotlight Volunteers Needed! great workers. Margaret will be missed greatly. Our prayers Has someone in your Unit or District received an are with the family at this time.” ~ Thelma J. Mosley FREA award or deserve their moment in the Volunteer “Mrs. Poppell was my business teacher at EHS and also provided a recommendation for my first job. I have nothing Spotlight? Even if we do not use it in the bulletin, we but fond memories of her classes. What a treasure!”~ will put it on the FREA Facebook page and website. Hazel Whitacre Please send the information, and a picture to: Anne “You will be missed by all your fellow educators and Fagan at the FREA office. [email protected] or mail to remembered always for your wonderful caring spirit. God the office address. Call 727-577-6400 with any bless you and your family. You were such an asset to question you may have. Florida Retired Educators Association and will always hold a special place in our hearts.”~ Jody Scruggs, FREA 14

Gone From Our Sight… October 26, 2013 ~ February 18, 2013 DISTRICT 1 DISTRICT 8 Henry Lefler Tampa FL Emma R Cannon Jay FL Lucille B Bateman Belle Isle FL Melvin E Liss Boynton Beach FL Merlease Coons Pensacola FL Lillie A Collins Rockledge FL Beverly J Makadok Boynton Beach FL Nona G Eade Meridien AL Cornelius E Jenkins Excelsior MN David J Mulcahy Jr Fort Lauderdale FL Helen C Galloway Westville FL Gussie L Johnson Sunrise FL Jesse E Mullins Virgie KY Marie C Lett Pensacola FL Doris P Mc Cauley Land O Lakes FL Calvin R Nichols Harrisonburg VA Helen Mahs Bonifay FL Bernice H Odums Tavares FL Myrtis H Oser Orange Park FL Tommie L Nolin Defuniak Springs FL Claretha A Randall Haines City FL Ramona Pietkiewicz Maitland FL Margaret J Poppell Pensacola FL Lejoyce R Stallings Dallas TX Josephine A Pizzo Tampa FL James W Weaver Lynn Haven FL DISTRICT 9 M.E. Pat R Powell Jupiter FL DISTRICT 2 Marjorie E Clefton Fort Pierce FL Bernard Riback Boynton Beach FL Genevieve Doyle Tallahassee FL Beatrice S Davis Fort Pierce FL Lucia L Roberts Jacksonville FL Don F Driggs New Hope PA June Drake Stuart FL Kay R Rodnesky Hollywood FL Freeman D Wyniel A Granitz Fort Pierce FL Carole B Rosenberg Boynton Beach FL Lawrence Tallahassee FL Mary Dee Lucas Dunwoody GA Florence Rothbaum Boynton Beach FL Willie Mae Miles Tallahassee FL Dan Thweatt Vero Beach FL Robert Scheck Boynton Beach FL James L Nettles Nashville TN DISTRICT 10 Elaine Schwartz Boca Raton FL Barbara J Stewart Tallahassee FL Julia D Berdeal Coral Gables FL Enid J Shea Edgewater FL DISTRICT 3 Lily Diekman Sunrise FL Elizabeth J Smith Middlebury VT Robert H Mc Crea O'Brien FL Kathryn P Gaus Fort Lauderdale FL Gertrude E Smith Sarasota FL Winifred J Tracy Orlando FL Barbara Leon Sunrise FL Shirley A Smith Boynton Beach FL DISTRICT 4 Alfred S Nemeroff Weston FL Dorothy Snidow Ruther Glen VA Oretta W Duncan Gainesville FL Eleanor Ourhaan Savannah GA Abe Stumer Delray Beach FL Nadine M Fults Silver Springs FL Catherine Vetro Fort Lauderdale FL Adele Suskind Boynton Beach FL Delia M Long Gainesville FL Gwendolyn H Welters Miami FL Marion A Thew Palm Springs FL DISTRICT 5 STATE MEMBERS Beverly A Valdez Jacksonville FL Travis Barton Green Cove Springs FL Stanley Aronson Boynton Beach FL Earline E Virts Tampa FL Eugenia M Brown Jacksonville FL Lorraine Bara Concord CA George Wajdowicz Largo FL Mattie C Campbell Jacksonville FL Vincent E Barone Boca Raton FL Paul Weissman Boca Raton FL Russell A Chapman Jacksonville FL Lucille B Bateman Belle Isle FL Howard R Wright Sarasota FL George M Cole Jacksonville FL Ruth W D Bechtel Port Charlotte FL Thomas Covington Macclenny FL Lorraine D Bender Boca Raton FL Gone From My Sight By Henry Van Dyke Ruth H Dixon New Smyrna Beach FL Charles A Bessinger Gulf Breeze FL

Julia H Gamble Atlanta GA Paul Borenstein Delray Beach FL I am standing upon the seashore. Emily Gilyard Yulee FL Dewey D Carroll Wauchula FL A ship, at my side, Dorothy M Heller- Irving Chenven Boynton Beach FL spreads her white sails to the moving Segas Grand Rapids MN Rae Chenven Boynton Beach FL breeze and starts for the blue ocean. Roselyn M Langdale Jacksonville FL Alan Cohen Boynton Beach FL She is an object of beauty and strength. Mary L Rinehart Lake Como FL Grace Cromer Lakeland FL I stand and watch her until, at length, she hangs like a speck of white cloud just Hazel B Smart Jacksonville FL Nicholas Filloramo Juno Beach FL Evelyn C Wilder Jacksonville FL where the sea and sky come to mingle Nancy L Finley Inverness FL with each other. DISTRICT 6 Thomas Frazier St Augustine FL Then, someone at my side says, Marjorie Adams Englewood FL Ruth J Gardner Jacksonville FL "There, she is gone.“ Ruth S Brown Largo FL Rosemary H Garner West Palm Beach FL Gone where? Dorothye M Davis Saint Petersburg FL Ruth W Goforth Pineville LA Gone from my sight. That is all. Anne B Donaldson Covington GA Dorothy P Guynn Lake City FL She is just as large in mast, hull and spar as she was when she left my side. Louise Mc Daniel Saint Petersburg FL Florence Halperin North Palm Beach FL Thelma C Pacetti Saint Petersburg FL And, she is just as able to bear her load Arthur B Higgs De Land FL of living freight to her destined port. Aldo R Paletti Saint Petersburg FL Marion E Hollingworth Saint Petersburg FL Her diminished size is in me -- not in her. Alicia S Roberts Tarpon Springs FL Carl Isbitts Boynton Beach FL And, just at the moment when someone Mildred W Sawyer Saint Petersburg FL Genevieve E Johnson Pt Charlotte FL says, "There, she is gone," DISTRICT 7 Loretta Kessler Syosset NY there are other eyes watching her coming, and other voices ready to take Guy F Amuso Sarasota FL Carrie L Kidd Stuart FL Erva F Mc Collum Danville PA up the glad shout, Barry Kivor Lake Worth FL "Here she comes!“ Jerry Morris Ten Mile TN James R Lambrix Palm Bch Gardens FL And that is dying... Mary Jo Morris Plant City FL Sara E Lawrence Brooksville FL 15

March 2014

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