AAFES Contingency Capabilities Strategic Planning & Partnerships - Contingency Operations
AAFES Retired Employees Association Newsletter · priorities supported by directorate based...
Transcript of AAFES Retired Employees Association Newsletter · priorities supported by directorate based...
Newsletter
AAFES Retired Employees Association
January 2017
Supporting the Interests of AAFES Its Retirees and the People it Serves
G reetings fellow AAFES teammates I trust each of you are enjoying your well-earned retirement Being Facebook friends with many of you I always enjoy seeing how you are spending your retirement days It looks like you are truly enjoying life as you take on new hobbies travel the world serve your communities and in some cases start new careers
Itrsquos hard to believe but Mike Howard has retired after almost 10 yearsmdashAAFESrsquo longest serving President and Chief Operating Officer It was an honor to work for and with him Following in his footsteps is both humbling and a privilege
As the son of a career Airman and son-in-law of a career Soldier I understand the impact AAFES and its associates have on our heroes in uniform and their families Like many of you I have been the beneficiary of what this incredible organization does each and every day
Since joining AAFES I have been fortunate to have numerous assignments at headquarters and in the field These opportunities provided a keen understanding of the importance each person brings to the organization More importantly it allowed me to work with some of the greatest and most dedicated people I could ever hope to meet
AAFES has faced many challenges as of late We have seen a dramatic reduction in troop strength rivals who are competing even stronger for our customers and the loss of many valuable associates to retirement Thanks to those of you who came before us we are in great shape Your business initiatives and efforts to de-velop our associates still resonate as they honor your legacies in their service to those who serve
In addition to your efforts we have developed excellent overarching strategic priorities supported by directorate based initiatives with crisp execution by our operators We invested in Logistics and Information Technology expanded our online assortment added many new vendors to the Services portfolio increased our branded food offerings reformatted retail stores and are looking forward to the approval of the Veter-
ans Online Shopping Benefit These strategies and the outstanding effort of the Exchange team made 2015 a record year in terms of earnings and have us on track to reach even greater heights in 2016
I know passion for serving troops and their families doesnrsquot end with retire-ment Our mission continues in each of you It is comforting to know the Exchange has ambassadors like you in the community telling AAFESrsquo amazing story of service and support Your efforts are important to protect-ing the exchange benefit for our military and our associates while keeping AAFES strong for years to come Thank you for the legacy you left not on-ly for AAFES and its people but our nationrsquos military It is a privilege to serve alongside each of you
David Nelson Chief Oper-
ating Officer Army and Air
Force Exchange Service
(Exchange)
Pag e 2 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREAJUST FOR YOU
C h u c k P o f f e n b a r g e r P r e s i d e n t
The Officers of the Association ndash Chuck Poffenbarger (P) Tom Gallagher (VP) Terry Corley (T) and Don Smith (S) wish you and yours a happy and rewarding New Year
We have two board meetings a year in the Spring and the Fall At our October 2016 meeting we discussed two issues of
particular interest to our membership
NEWSLETTER SURVEY
We conducted a survey asking members their views on converting the quarterly Newsletter to an electronic publication only much
like the Exchange Post Printing mailing and other costs have become too expensive for the current dues structure
One of the questions we asked was would you be willing to pay higher dues (approximately $2 per issue) for a printed version
About 55 of the members who responded that they would
Dues were last increased on April 1 2002 15 frac12 years ago Thatrsquos a long time without having to compensate for increased ex-
penses (Postage stamps were $37ounce back then they are now $47ounce Postcards we use to notify members of late dues
were $23 they are now $34 each) After much discussion the board voted to increase the dues by $2year from $15 to $17
effective with dues payable February 1 2017 As for the electronic publication wersquoll keep the status lsquoas isrsquo for the
foreseeable future Also effective February 1 all new members will automatically receive the electronic version of the newsletter
unless they specifically elect to receive the hard copy Current AREA members can switch from the hard copy of the newsletter to
the electronic version at any time by contacting Pat Weaver at ken-patsbcglobalnet
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
For quite a few years donations from various sources covered the basic program of $40000 for 2$5M and 10$3M scholarships
These results for the last two years have continued into this year
2015 donations for 2016 program $14625 from reserves $25375
2014 donations for 2015 program $14950 from reserves $25050
In the October Newsletter we said ldquoObviously something has to give as the reserve funds will deterio-
rate rapidly at the current program and contribution levels As it now stands reserves are being used at a
rate that will not allow the program to be sustained long termrdquo
Donations have fallen for several reasons
A donation of $10k annually Program discontinued Scholarship Booklet was $1k-$4k annually Program discontinued Dan Daniel Golf Tournament about $5k annually Tournament discontinued Individual member donations Vary significantly from year to year Various other sources of income
We discussed several alternates and approved a motion for a program of nine scholarships for a total annual program of $29000
beginning with the 20162017 academic year This amount more closely aligns awards with contributions Individual
awards are 1$5k and 8$3k
Despite the above challenges AREA remains a strong organization working for you Happy New Year
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 3
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
AAFES Retired
Employees Association
The AREA Newsletter is published in January April July and October
Mailing Address
AREA P O Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75138-0614
President Chuck Poffenbarger
cpoffenearthlinknet Tel (972) 296-0388
Membership amp Address Changes Send your NEWSLETTER AD-DRESS and MEMBERSHIP chang-es and your MEMBERSHIP DUES to the AREA Membership Director Pat Weaver ken-patsbcglobalnet
Tel (972) 780-9810 Newsletter input Submit articles to the editor by e-mail to Marcia Kane kanemareawindstreamnet
AREA Web address httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Q Does the Heath Plan cover smoking cessation medications
A Yes The DoD Non-Appropriated Fund Health Benefit Plan covers a
six-month supply of FDA-approved smoking cessation medications
At any network pharmacy get your prescription filled for Bupropion SR or
other nicotine items such as gum inhaler patches etc Call Aetna today
for details at 1-800-367-6276 (the number on your insurance ID card)
Benefits QampAmdash Questions you ask answers from Exchange Benefits
Q Do any current retirees pay a premium for DoD NAF health insurance
coverage
A Yes we have a few retirees we were not grandfathered with the 100
premium-free benefit If you are one of those few retirees who currently pay
a premium note the premium tier changes published on page 4 that affects
you and all active associates
Q How does the Exchange know what tier is applicable
A Our enrollment system knows if currently covered dependents are
spouses or children so we will definitely get the personfamily into the
right tier for 2017 We just want them to be aware of which tier theyre in so
IF they are a person who pays premiums theyll know what to expect in
2017 And if a person wants to remove a covered dependent for 2017 (for
any reason) they need to call our office at 800-519-3381
Q Has there been a change to the policy on coverage of domestic
partners under the health plan
A Yes Same sex domestic partners can no longer be covered as if they were a spouse Instead theyrsquod have to follow rules of their state to become a same sex married spouse by January 1 2017 to stay eligible This is due to a June 2015 Supreme Court decision There is more information on the wwwnafhealthplanscom site The Exchange sent a letter last November to all our participants who currently cover a same sex domestic partner or part-nerrsquos children on this issue Q Did a Supreme Court decision also change the pension plan provision on survivor annuity benefits
A The pension planrsquos definition of spouse (a member of a union of one man and one woman as per state law) had been driven by the federal De-fense of Marriage Act (DOMA) When the Supreme Court struck DOMA down in mid-2013 spouse effectively became defined as lsquoa member of a union between two persons that is treated as marriage under state lawrsquo so AAFES changed the pension plan in 2014 to reflect that change Since then an associate in a same-sex marriage could (can now) elect a survivor annuity
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
Pag e 4 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Summary - Whatrsquos New With Benefits in 2017
If you are currently enrolled in retiree healthcare through the Exchange these items were explained in the
Open Enrollment newsletter mailed to your home address in November 2016 The electronic version is availa-
ble here httpswwwnafhealthplanscomenrollmentexchange
Whatrsquos not changing in 2017 Deductibles and coinsurance amounts for medical and dental and medical and prescription copays There are four changes described below which will take effect on January 1 2017 1 Four premium tiers In the past there were two premium tiers mdash individual (aka single) and family For 2017 this will change to four
tiers which will bring the DoD NAF plan in line with industry standard If you donrsquot pay premiums now as a retir-
ee this change does not affect you If you are a retiree who pays premiums for healthcare during retirement
it is important to know which tier you will fall into as the tier determines your premiums The four tiers are as fol-
lows
Retiree only Retiree + child(ren) Retiree + spouse Retiree + family (retiree + spouse + children)
2 Out-of-pocket maximum increases This is the maximum amount you pay for your share of covered expenses in a calendar year For the first time since 2006 the out-of-pocket maximums will increase in 2017 as shown below
2016 2017 In-Network Out-of-Network In-Network Out-of-Network
Individual $ 3000 $ 6000 $ 4000 $ 8000 Family of 2 $ 6000 $ 12000 $ 8000 $ 16000 Family of 3+ $ 9000 $ 18000 $ 12000 $ 24000 3 The Maintenance Choicereg Program We are steering you very strongly toward getting these maintenance medications in a 90-day supply by using either
Aetna Rx Home Deliveryreg mail-order pharmacy or a CVS pharmacy near you Maintenance medicines are those
used on a regular basis to treat or manage conditions such as asthma diabetes high blood pressure or high cholester-
ol You will pay the full cost of the medicine if you choose to continue to receive only a 30-day supply
NOTE CONUS members will receive additional information in late 2016 early 2017 about this change
4 The Exclusions Drug List This list shows categories of drugs that are covered by your plan and indicates specific drugs within each category
that will no longer be covered The drugs will no longer be covered because there are similar products with the same
active ingredients that are available at a lesser cost To view the list visit httpswwwnafhealthplanscomhealth-
benefitspharmacy-program NOTE All members received a letter in December 2016 outlining the change as well
as the list of drugs that will no longer be covered
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 5
Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for Pensions
The 2017 COLA increase for pensions is 30 effective with the December 2016 pension pay-
ments Retirees with an annuity start date of Dec 1 2015 or before will receive the entire in-
crease Those who have an annuity start date after Dec 1 2015 will receive a prorated COLA as
shown here
Retirement Annuity
Start Date
Year of Months
Retired
COLA Increase
starting
December 2016
December 2015 12 030
January 2016 11 028
February 2016 10 025
March 2016 9 023
April 2016 8 020
May 2016 7 018
June 2016 6 015
July 2016 5 013
August 2016 4 010
September 2016 3 008
October 2016 2 005
November 2016 1 003
December 2016 0 000
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
One of the benefits for Exchange retirees is that they are able to shop the Exchange DD form 2674 retiree Exchange card documents shopping privileges While DD form 2674 is a defense department ID card it is not an ID card recognized to grant access to the installations Exchange retirees who need access to an installation need to obtain a ldquochiplessrdquo common access card (CAC) Your local HRO can provide instructions on how to contact the in-stallation to obtain the card if the installation provides this service For those retirees located near the AAFES HQs building you may obtain your card through the Headquarters HR Office
Common Access Card (CAC) Needed for Access to Military Installations
Retirees - Have you tried it Online access to pension information 24 hrsday 7 daysweek httpsaafesretirementmypenpaycom Once you have signed in you can
Change address direct deposit bank information tax withholding
View 18 months of statements and tax forms from current and prior year
Request stop payments and reissue outstanding checks
Need help with your Username or Password Call State Streetrsquos pension administration office at 1-877-247-2769 or 1-904-791-2246 (International)
Reduce your Medical Deductible in 2017 with Health Incentive Credits
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
For 2017 the maximum health incentive credit an individual can earn is $250 The family maximum is
$600 In 2017 covered retirees and their covered spouse should have already completed the Compass Health Assess-
ment to earn the Health Incentive Credits If you have not done so do so now
Health Incentive Credit features
Applied to the medical deductible andor coinsurance as claims are processed The credit cannot be applied to copay-
ments such as PCP Specialist Emergency Room Urgent Care copays Hospital confinement fees or pharmacy co-
pays
middot The credit will roll over every year until used up to 3 years
middot Credits are displayed on the Explanation of Benefits and in Aetna Navigator
Here are a few things you need to know
The Compass Health Assessment is a new and improved questionnaire that takes just 10 minutes to com-
plete Members answer questions about personal and family health history lifestyle habits recent screening results
and other health factors Since this is a brand new assessment members will need to complete it instead of just adding
updates as no previous answers will be carried over No other activities will earn credits until the assessment is com-
pleted To take the assessment log in to wwwaetnacom and click ldquoI want to Take a Health Assessmentrdquo on the
home page
These credits will be placed in an account and applied towards the first family memberrsquos claim where the deductible
andor coinsurance would be applied
Activity Health Incentive Credit Amount Calendar Year Maxi-
mum
Complete metabolic syndrome
screening before April 1 2017
$150 each $150 for employee only
and $300 for employee
and covered spouse Complete metabolic syndrome
screening between April 1 and
November 30 2017
$100 each
Disease Management (DM) goal ndash
complete 3 calls with a DM nurse
$100 each
Complete online journey (average
time 32 days)
$ 50 each up to four journeys $200 for employee only
or $400 for family
Dependent Children
Under Age 18
Have a preventive care exam $ 50 for each child pre- year
Pag e 6 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 7
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
In October we announced that Ken Weaver resigned as the AREA Representative on the Trustees
board and Terry Corley became the new AREA Representative Renee Figge who had recently retired
as AAFES CFO agreed to be the Alternate If you donrsquot already know Renee here is a short recap of
her career
Renee began her career with the Exchange in 1986 as a Management Trainee in San Antonio Her first
assignment was a field accountant in the New England Area From there she held numerous manage-
ment position in the Controller division where she was part of the team establishing the Integrated Gen-
eral Ledger Accounting System (IGLAS) in 1993 Next Renee worked in Treasury and was named the
Assistant Treasurer responsible for the daily operations of Treasury Management In 2006 she was
named the Exchange Treasurer As Treasurer she managed traditional corporate financial functions including treasury manage-
ment risk management benefit administration pension and investments private label consumer credit and collections She was
named Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in March 2014 the first female CFO of AAFES Renee was born
and raised in Westminster Mass and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Fitchburg State College
Mass She is also a Certified Public Accountant
Get Your Metabolic Syndrome Screening
DoD NAF Health Plan Members have you completed your metabolic syndrome screening The screening is an im-
portant step to learn about your risk for metabolic syndrome a group of health factors that can set the stage for serious
health conditions Itrsquos also a way for you and your covered spouse to each earn a $150 incentive credit
Herersquos How to schedule your FREE screening today
bull Go to MyQuestForHealthcom
bull Click ldquoRegister Nowrdquo in the ldquoNot Registered Yetrdquo box
bull Enter registration key DoD2017
bull Enter your member ID from your Aetna ID card (starts with ldquoWrdquo) Your spouse must add an ldquoSrdquo to the end of your
member ID number and enter your date of birth
bull Select ldquoGet Startedrdquo to go to the screening home page
bull Select ldquoSchedule Nowrdquo and follow the prompts to schedule your appointment
You can also call Quest at 1-866-697-8378 to make your screening appointment
Or if you choose you may have your own doctor complete the screening
You must still follow the instructions above to register with Quest This will allow you to download the Physician Re-
sults Report Form your doctor must complete and fax to Quest so you will be able to earn the incentive Note You
may be charged a fee if your screening is not part of a routine physical exam Aetna International members must use
this option as there are no Quest locations outside the US
Learn about additional ways to earn your health incentive credits
Employees with individual coverage can earn $250 in credits and employees with family coverage can earn $600
Visit wwwnafhealthplanscomgtWellness amp Resources or call Member Services at 1-800-367-6276 to learn more
REMEMBER The online health assessment is required as a first step to earn ANY credits To take the health
assessment log in at wwwaetnacom and click ldquoI want to Take a Health Assessmentrdquo on the left side of your home
page Once you have completed your biometric screening and have received your results make sure to record them in
your health assessment
Pag e 8 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
2017 AREA Scholarship Program
Since 1985 AREA has provided educational opportunities to ldquoAAFES Kidsrdquo through its schol-arship program This coming year AREA plans to award $29000 in scholarships to nine gradu-ating high school seniors Amounts are one $5000 and eight $3000 awards
2017 will mark the 28th anniversary of the AREA scholarship program the only program de-signed to directly benefit AAFES employeesrsquo and assigned militaryrsquos children To date AREA has provided $715795 in scholarship awards to 337 deserving students ndash many of whom may not have even started college without the AREA boost Now that is something we should all be proud of
So how does the program work Herersquos a short synopsis
The program is limited to graduating high school seniors One of the parents must have been an AAFES employee or assigned military on January 1 of the award year had at least twelve consecutive months of Exchange employment or in the case of military personnel Exchange assignment For a deceased parent the twelve-month employment requirement must have been met at the time of death Applications must be sent to the scholarship committee during the designated enrollment period ndash January 1 through March 31 of each year An application form is available on the AREA web site at httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-associationcommunity-programsscholarshipshtm The same site sets out the specific requirements for making application eg application period minimum SAT and ACT scores etc All application criteria are laid out on the web site The 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
ALA Luncheon and Charity Auction
Dec 9 ndash The American Logistics Asso-
ciation held a luncheon and donated
items were auctioned off by legendary
Dallas Cowboy football player Randy
White Bill Doyle DFW ALA Chapter
president presented AREA President
Chuck Poffenbarger and Scholarship
Fund Manager Michelle Priester a
check for $7500 for the AREA Schol-
arship Fund
Bill Doyle Michelle Priester and
Chuck Poffenbarger
PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75138-0614
Michelle Priester and Randy White
PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75138-0614
Community ServicemdashFall 2016
We recognize AREA chapter members 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 Recipients were provided with a Certificate of Appreciation and a recognition letter signed by the
program director and president AREA
COMMUNITY AWARD RECIPIENTS
RON CLEMENT PRESIDENT
COLUMBIA RIVER CHAPTER
VANCOUVER WASHINGTON STATE
Ron makes arrangements for all meetings ie lunches updates etc send out updates from the National AREA
and keeps us up-to-date with all AAFES happenings He has an extremely positive attitude despite health issues
and is solely responsible for keeping all the members in our chapter together
BILL EDDINGS MEMBER
NORTH TEXAS CHAPTER
DALLASFORT WORTH TEXAS
Bill is responsible for his Neighborhood Night Out program He organizes the program and gets groups to come
in and speak including the police etc to address safety issues He also gets tables set up for volunteer organiza-
tions such as Meals on Wheels to recruit volunteers
AREA JUST FOR YOU
During a visit to Nellis Air Force Base Army amp Air Force Exchange Service DirectorCEO Tom Shull and David Nelson Chief Operating Officer paid trib-ute to Lt Col Thomas ldquoMosesrdquo Bouley brother of retired Western Region Senior Vice President Ed Bouley Lt Col Bouley 65th Aggression Squadron Commander gave the ultimate sacrifice for this nation during an F-15 crash on the Nevada Test and Training Range in July 2008 Bouley Hall home to the 65th AGRS is named in his honor
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 9
Tom Shull and David Nelson
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Pag e 10 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Lynda Tanaka Adrienne Hamada Frank Cedeno Pauline Ung Mary Ann Asato Pat Watson and Bill Allgire
Rose Kawata Alice Suma
and Margaret Hasegawa Brave game contestants Dot Irvine Ethel Miguel
Jan and Mel Santana Ruth Shiroma Cynthia Hoag Ardell Katsura Roy Miura and Marlene Tokuhisa
Our donation to the Hawaii Foodbank
The Aloha Chapter held its annual Christmas party on Sunday 4 Dec at its perennial location -- The Pearl Country Club The Chapter has been holding its holiday function here for the past 20 years So they are like family to us by now A Prime Rib buffet luncheon was arranged with Baked Mahi Mahi Korean style BBQ Chicken with all the attending salads and veggies A total of 57 members spouses and guestsmdashwith one very special guest this year FRANK CEDENOmdashenjoyed the buffet games door prizes Christmas spirit and camaraderie Frank worked at the old PACEX HQ in the early 70s at the Queen Emma building and helped in the transition to its newer location on 919 Ala Moana Blvd An election of Officers was held with BILL ALLGIRE being elected as President LAURI SANTOS Treasurer and PAULINE UNG Secretary Seventeen $$$ door prizes were given away with the two $50 cash prizes being won by LANI AKI and ELAINE TAKAHASI Grand Prize winners of $50 were MARY ANN ASATO FRANCES SAITO MILTON SHIMIZU and ROY MIURAmdash with the final $100 Grand Prize being won by ETHEL MIGUEL -- wining more with her AAFES family than her recent trip to Vegas Everyone left with renewed energy and filled with the Christmas Spirit
Aloha ChaptermdashBill Allgire
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 11
Alamo ChaptermdashBrenda Borland
The Alamo Chapter in San Antonio has many events throughout the year Different hosts sponsor the events Our Dinner in September was held at Caparellis Restaurant and was hosted by Marilyn and Javier Cerna
Len and Rhonda Freitas James and Norma
Thompson Doris Morris
Brenda Borland and Song Choe
Tony and Ella Trevino
Bilge Cordani and
Claire Guillemette
Judy and Lee Rux Marilyn and Javier Cerna Janice and Bill Dobbs
Mike Bresnok and
Shannon Soefje
Kim Mathews and
Dan Forsch
Ruth Lown Lois Lown
and Roy Hines
Ken Limtiaco Mike and
Betty Rohrer Paula Hall Virginia and
Bob Askew
Ann and Tim Brogan
Attending but not pictured
Kathy Jackson and Mark Porter
Dix-McGuire Chapter- Fran Stanley
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
The DIX- MCGUIRE RETIREE S ASSOCIATION held its fall luncheon on September 12 2016 at a favor ite location Cracker Barrel in Bur lington New J ersey There were 50 members in attendance Everyone enjoyed catching up with for -mer co-workers friends and new acquaintances There was plenty of good food camaraderie and door prizes to go around The AREA benefits briefing conducted in June 2016 was discussed and copies of pertinent information distributed to the author-ized members Many were amazed at additional benefits available to them through their Aetna insurance Jan Terry wife of Errol Lawrence provide the group with upcoming events including an Artists Reception and a water-color class at her Art Gallery Many members have taken classes provided by Jan and find them enjoyable Eloise Thomas invited the group to take advantage and join the Browns Mills senior citizen group for adventures to places including bus trips to Atlantic City Casi-nos Honorary member and long-time customer Therese Hall celebrated her 95th birthday with the group Asked what she attributes her youthful appearance and diligent restraint to aging she replied that she comes from a family with good genes She said to do what you like but in moderation Other birthday wishes were made to Joyce Carr Earl Scott Vince Pesini and Erna Jackson Also the group was informed that Toni Long Retired Manager had passed away in South Carolina after a lengthy illness Sympa-thy cards were sent to Tonirsquos daughters on behalf of the group Several members expressed how much our card program meant to them comments were made by Peggy Forcey Vince Pesini Bob Bryant and Therese Hall Door prizes were won by Patty Puryear Fran Stanley Carrine Simms Fannie Anderson Mr Carter and Barbara Robinson and server Brittany The 5050 was won by Barbara Puryear
Pag e 12 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Kay and Vince Pisini Yoshiko
Brown and Reiko Williams
Evelyn Sprague Marianne Overhiser Katie
Barrett Edna Rock and Velma Watkins
Barbara Puryear Priscilla Parker
Patti Puryear and Glenn Parker
Arlene Cornish Sandi Grady Nedra
Harris and Barbara Robinson Fannie Anderson Welton Chase Hank
Fleming and his Guest Our 95 year old Queen of the Day
Therese Hall with Fran Stanley
Beatrice Hargrove Carrine Simms Joyce Carr and Betty OBrien
Patti Rahilly Jones
and Marie Rahilly
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 13
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Dix-McGuire Chapter - Fran Stanley
The Ft Dix-McGuire Chapter members met to celebrate Christmas at OrsquoConnerrsquos ( formally known as Charleyrsquos Other Brother) in Mt Holly New Jersey Despite the rainy day we had over 50 members and guests in attendance who enjoyed the event Holiday music was playing in the background as participants enjoyed playing trivia games for numerous gifts as well as door prizes There was plenty of good food games and gifts to go around Participants were able to choose from London Broil Chicken Parmesan or Stuff shells as their main entreacutee Each meal came with a house salad two vegetables dinner rolls coffee tea and a holiday desert This year the members were able to sign Christmas cards that were sent to for-mer members who now live outside the state or were too ill to attend The 5050 winner Richard Schmelia generously donated $25 back to the group to help send out fruit baskets to those too ill to attend The camaraderie displayed among the group reminded us how awesome it was to work for an organization that was more than a busi-ness and more like a fami-ly May God continue to bless each of you
Earl Scott Robert Bryant and Sylvia Brown William Henriquez Reyes Errol Lawrence Jane Terri Lawrence Luis Lopez
Elaine Brown Therese Hall Monica Frederick and Edna Rock
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Golden Gate ChaptermdashErnest Kodama
Golden Gate AREA Chapter held its Christmas Luncheon on December 10 at the Spinnaker Restaurant in Sausalito CA Attending the luncheon were Mary Lou Geimer George Wills Dennis Gilman Arline Gilman Lou
Vitalie Arlene Hadfield Julia Lee Joan Turner Chick Kretz Gina Kretz Toni DeBardeleben Stanlee Garriot and Ernie Kodama
Pag e 14 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Northern California Chapter ndash Ken ldquoTomrdquo Keim
We began our fall season with a luncheon meeting at Mimirsquos of Elk Grove Members and guests attending were Renate
Atkinson and daughter Deborah Margaret Belcher Edit Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Dianne Hobbs
Celia Hudson Rosa LaBoeuf Tina Minjarez Kristin Taylor Jerri Thomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Stella and Michael
Winch The group discussed possible activities for the upcoming year such as a Sacramento train ride winery tour at Apple
Hill garage sale picnic BBQ in the ark and a casino visit Members were asked to give feedback on which of these most ap-
peal to Chapter members
Our October luncheon meeting at El Tapatio was attended by the following members and guests Margaret Belcher Rosie
Boyce Edie Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Arlene Ferry and daughter Debbie Dianne Hobbs Margie
Iwamoto Ken Keim Rosa LaBoeuf Richard Mason Gloria Masse Tina Minjarez Ellen Rivera Margie Scheatzle Kristin
Taylor Jerri Toomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Lee Woodward
October November and December are the busiest time of the year The annual fall bake and used book sale was held on Octo-
ber 29 at McClellan BX The annual holiday auction was held following the regular November 9 luncheon meeting at the IHOP on Sunrise Blvd and we held our gala Christmas luncheon on December 11 at Zinfandel Grill
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 15
Gulf Coast Chapter - Jan Comstock
Super fun and exciting AAFES Retiree Christmas luncheon 62 in attendance We had a blast We had to renew our
membership and pay our $500 dues for the year We had a great raffle and also brought in can goods for the food
banks in our area A great big thank you and job well done to Steve Friend and Regina Steve Mitchell and Susan
attended both doing so much better Missed three that could not attend We had so much fun with our signsmdashfound
out we have a lot of naughty ladies They all asked for the naughty sign A big plus for me was that the group
sang Happy Birthday to me The waitress surprised me with a slice of chocolate cake with a candle and ice cream We
also recognized the other December birthday Merry Christmas
Scott Maynard Billy Hullen-der and Brenda Hullender
Olive Bobo and Marcia Watts Harville
Isabelle Good Hender-shot and Gail Golden Escobedo
See many more photos on Jan Comstockrsquos Facebook page
Jan Comstock
North Texas ChaptermdashRichard Sheff and Linda Dean
The North Texas Chapter of AREA has been busy this past quarter attending events such as the music of Johnny Cash a FREE Membership Appreciation Luncheon and a Holiday Celebration amp Gift Ex-change Please follow us on our Facebook page at North Texas Chapter of AREA to see all of the pic-tures
ldquoRing of Firerdquo at the Addison Water Tower Theatre Oct 16 ndash NTC-AREA members attended a play that
included the music of Johnny Cash After the Johnny Cash music we enjoyed dinner at BJrsquos Restaurant and
Brewhouse
Linda Dean Jerry amp Carlon Cloud
and Sarah Rabb Marilyn amp Leon Levin Doug amp Gail Olney Lina amp Chuck Poffenbarger
Membership Appreciation FREE Luncheon at Rudyrsquos BBQ Nov 3 ndash Annually the North Texas Chapter of
AREA has a FREE appreciation luncheon for members This year 103 members enjoyed barbecue at Rudyrsquos
Barbecue amp Country Store
Even with 2 serving tables the lines were long There was plenty of food for everyone
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Continued on next page
Pag e 16 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Take coverhellip Richard Sheff has a knife to cut the cake
NTC-AREA Board Meeting at HQ Nov 11 - After a NTC-AREA board meeting at HQ some of the members ran into some of the active Exchange Executives Dave Nelson and Ana Middleton From left to right Roy Robertson Jr Debbie Kliment Byerly Tom Branning Dave Nelson Richard Sheff Ana Middle-ton Jack Leavitt and Dale Linebarger
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Annual Holiday Celebration amp Gift Exchange Dec 4 ndash To celebrate the holiday season NTC-AREA members
gathered for a late luncheon at the YO Ranch Steakhouse The food was good and we had a private room for social-
izing and fun with the gift exchange
56 members attended the party at the YO Ranch Steakhouse So many pretty packages
to choose from
NTC President
Richard Sheff and
Master of Ceremo-
nies always
makes the gift ex-
change so much
fun
Bobbye Towns wearing
her Christmas gift Do you
think wersquoll see it again
next year
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos
Pat Weaver writes ldquoIf the mem-
bers want to know why their
checks are delayed this is the rea-
son The little Christmas trees are
my lsquoRed Neckrsquo trees They have
gun shells on them for lightsrdquo I
made all the ceramic pieces such
as the Santas and manger scenes
(See more photos on page 23)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 17
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith
In the summer of 1973 the Exchange transferred me from the Colorado Area Ex-change Fort Carson CO where I was the Services Operations Manager to the Okina-wa Regional Exchange as Chief of Services I was a 13 year veteran of AAFES at that time starting when I graduated High School in 1960 with the George AFB Exchange Victorville CA My first job was a Petroleum Transfer Engineer a Pump Island At-tendant for the unlearned Okinawa was our first overseas assignment and it was the first time my wife and children would fly My four year old son at the time would look up in the sky at an airplane and ask his Mother lsquoCanrsquot Daddy drive the car to Okinawarsquo We could never find the lsquobridgersquo across the Pacific so fly it was
We stopped over in Hawaii for several days to straighten out some passport issues for my family then it was on to Okinawa We landed at the lsquotail endrsquo of a Typhoon with scores of airport employees meeting the aircraft with umbrellas ushering us to a bus to take to us to the terminal Much of the Naha Airport was open to the outside in 1973 which would have been a delight except it was raining very hard with high winds John Hanson was our sponsor and met us at
the exit to Customs and welcomed us to Okinawa He and Lydie took very good care of us and helped us to acclimate ourselves to Okinawa life
It took us a few weeks to get our quarters assigned to us and with lsquoaddressrsquo and direc-tions in hand we drove to see it According to the house numbers it was an empty lot overgrown with trees and weeds 20rsquo tall After several passes searching to make sure I was not overlooking the address I was getting ready to go back to the housing office when my daughter said lsquolook Daddy I can see a roofrsquo I stopped and walked through the undergrowth to a house that appeared to have been sitting empty for a while Later that evening I told John Hanson that we found the house but it will take a little bit of work to clear the growth to where we can live in the house With the help of a lsquoPapa-sanrsquo we were able to do so quickly and settled in for life on Okinawa
While in Hawaii my children begged me to go to the beach which I refused because I told them lsquowe are going to live on an island for three years you can swim when we get therersquo However the Okinawa of 1973 is not the Okinawa of today The only beach for swimming we could find was Okuma on the Northern part of the Island The other shore line was riddled with volcanic rock which required you to wear lsquocombat bootsrsquo to walk However we loved it
The Okinawa of today 40 plus years later is much dif-ferent Pat and I were offered the opportunity to come back for three months to lsquofill inrsquo for a Missionary Pas-tor in the Church we were members of while here in the 70rsquos who needed to return to the States for that pe-riod of time We were immediately reminded lsquowe live in a different worldrsquo today than that we experienced four decades ago with the added security at airports the
enhanced visa checks customs inspectiondeclaration and when we were met with the lsquoclosedrsquo Military Installations that were open in the 1970rsquos
But the thing that had not changed is the politeness of the Japanese people We flew into Tokyo Narita Airport and had to catch a bus for the 45 minute drive to Haneda Air-port where our flight departed to Okinawa The attendants were striking with their cus-tomary bow to all who boarded the bus and we were met with this same courtesy when the bus arrived at Haneda and again when we exited the plane at Naha Okinawa In the Restaurants the stores-large and small-we have been met with this ever present polite welcome
Our hour drive from the Airport to Church apartments on the evening of our arrival introduced us to a modern Express Way ex-tending the full length of the Island and a lsquospider likersquo network of roads leading to all parts of the Islands A number of the 1970 Military Installations have been returned to the Japanese Government and replaced with lsquohigh risersquo buildings
On what used to be the Awase Golf Course is now the Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom a multistory mall that would rival any mod-ern mall we might find in the States The Express Way frequently maneuvers through tunnels carved out of the limited moun-tains on Okinawa the coral shores have been replaced with sand and beaches are plentiful as are numerous scenic drives through the countryside
Pag e 18 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Don amp Patsy Smith
I have not been able to verify the figures but I recall using population figures in the 1970rsquos of 300000 today that population exceeds 1300000 Okinawa has become Mainland Japanrsquos Hawaii resort Island
During our time here the enhanced security has required us to lsquoget a passrsquo for Pat as she does not have a CAC which I have to enter the Military Installations One of the Church members sponsored her allowing us to visit many of the Exchange Facili-ties Today Futenma Kadena Hansen Torii Schwab Foster and Kinser are the major facilities remaining on the Island
I remember in the 70rsquos sharing with my Okinawan counter parts the need for the Exchange Facilities to lsquolook like homersquo for the Americans They of course were willing to help but my Automotive Tech Rep Arkaki-san asked me lsquowhat does home look likersquo We were trying to emulate the lsquoappearancersquo of our Stateside BasePost Exchanges but knowing they would not know what they looked like I told him we need to make them look like SEARS we did not have Wal-Mart in those days
He and the others nodded and we went about working on the lsquofacadesrsquo of the scattered Service Facilities we had all over the Island On one occasion I invited lsquomy guysrsquo to our home for a cook out with homemade ice cream and Arkaki-san asked how I thought our efforts were coming along with the lsquolookrsquo as I called it I told him I was very pleased and more important so were our customers He then told me lsquoI am happy because none of us know this SEARS you talk about what does it look likersquo I learned a lesson that day lsquodonrsquot always assume your counterpart in a different country understands the word picture you are trying to sharersquo
But back to today the Exchange folks here continue with that lsquolook of homersquo approach The added franchise facilities like Chilirsquos Subway Popeyes Baskin Robbins and of course one of my favorites one of the original Exchange self-franchises Anthonyrsquos Pizza dates back to lsquomy daysrsquo
Being in a lsquoMilitaryrsquo Church I have had to opportunity to talk with many Military Families from the Air Force Army Ma-rines and Navy My lsquoMarinersquo friends will ask lsquowhy did not you list the Marines first we always arrive firstrsquo But I chose to list them alphabetically to not offend either of the branches They each are among the lsquofinestrsquo of the young men and women who serve our country I am proud to be with them even if only for a short while All I have met are lsquothrilledrsquo with the Ex-change Facilities on Okinawa In fact one Marine told me lsquoit is a touch of homersquo
So to the Exchange Family in Okinawa lsquoGreat Jobrsquo
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith (Continued)
In the News From a December 15 e-mail from Jim Henry ldquo In case you missed it Darren Woods son of Dale and Karen Woods was named today to be Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mo-bil Darren replaces Rex Tillerson who is being nominated for Secretary of State Dale and Karen hope you dont mind me bragging on Darren a little You must be awfully proud of himrdquo
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 19
IN REMEMBRANCE
ERENEO COPADA 89 Aug 20 in San Francisco CA The Presidio of San Francisco Safety and Security Assistant retired in 1998
DENNIS JONES 81 died July 12 in Dallas TX The Frankfurt General Manager retired in 1986
BILLY GILES 77 died Aug 10 in Red Oak TX The HQ Computer Systems analyst retired in 1995
Antoinette (Toni) Long 79 died Sept 4 in Hampton SC The Los Angeles AFB General Manager retired in 1992
THOMAS SAVAGEAU 79 died Aug 23 in Ajijic Jalisco Mexico The HQ Associate retired in 1989
JOHN SHARP 59 died May 12 in Ovilla TX The Europe Egion Area manager retired in 2013
PAUL TAFF 90 died Aug 21 in Arlington TX The HQ Associate retired in 1983
ROBERT WILLINGHAM 84 died Sept 28 in Dallas TX The HQ Associate retired in 1993
DOUGLAS WOODHOUSE 64 died Oct 1 in Mobile AL The HQ Management Analyst retired in 2006
Pag e 20 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
WILLS ldquoFrom time to time retired associates of AAFES leave be-quests to the AREA in their will If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that pre-pares your formally written and executed will with the follow-ing sample clause If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause I give (blank dollarsproperty) to the Army Air Force Ex-change Service Retired Employees Association (AREA) PO Box 380614 Duncanville Texas 75138
Other Chapter reported deaths
George John Vomvoris legendary AAFES Food amp Services Executive (76) passed
away on November 18 2016 with his family by his side in Waxahachie Texas
Also we received news that Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur who is well known as
the first female super rate in AAFES passed away at age 88 in early November
(See eulogy on pages 21-23 by Aubrey Rembold)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
Pag e 2 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREAJUST FOR YOU
C h u c k P o f f e n b a r g e r P r e s i d e n t
The Officers of the Association ndash Chuck Poffenbarger (P) Tom Gallagher (VP) Terry Corley (T) and Don Smith (S) wish you and yours a happy and rewarding New Year
We have two board meetings a year in the Spring and the Fall At our October 2016 meeting we discussed two issues of
particular interest to our membership
NEWSLETTER SURVEY
We conducted a survey asking members their views on converting the quarterly Newsletter to an electronic publication only much
like the Exchange Post Printing mailing and other costs have become too expensive for the current dues structure
One of the questions we asked was would you be willing to pay higher dues (approximately $2 per issue) for a printed version
About 55 of the members who responded that they would
Dues were last increased on April 1 2002 15 frac12 years ago Thatrsquos a long time without having to compensate for increased ex-
penses (Postage stamps were $37ounce back then they are now $47ounce Postcards we use to notify members of late dues
were $23 they are now $34 each) After much discussion the board voted to increase the dues by $2year from $15 to $17
effective with dues payable February 1 2017 As for the electronic publication wersquoll keep the status lsquoas isrsquo for the
foreseeable future Also effective February 1 all new members will automatically receive the electronic version of the newsletter
unless they specifically elect to receive the hard copy Current AREA members can switch from the hard copy of the newsletter to
the electronic version at any time by contacting Pat Weaver at ken-patsbcglobalnet
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
For quite a few years donations from various sources covered the basic program of $40000 for 2$5M and 10$3M scholarships
These results for the last two years have continued into this year
2015 donations for 2016 program $14625 from reserves $25375
2014 donations for 2015 program $14950 from reserves $25050
In the October Newsletter we said ldquoObviously something has to give as the reserve funds will deterio-
rate rapidly at the current program and contribution levels As it now stands reserves are being used at a
rate that will not allow the program to be sustained long termrdquo
Donations have fallen for several reasons
A donation of $10k annually Program discontinued Scholarship Booklet was $1k-$4k annually Program discontinued Dan Daniel Golf Tournament about $5k annually Tournament discontinued Individual member donations Vary significantly from year to year Various other sources of income
We discussed several alternates and approved a motion for a program of nine scholarships for a total annual program of $29000
beginning with the 20162017 academic year This amount more closely aligns awards with contributions Individual
awards are 1$5k and 8$3k
Despite the above challenges AREA remains a strong organization working for you Happy New Year
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 3
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
AAFES Retired
Employees Association
The AREA Newsletter is published in January April July and October
Mailing Address
AREA P O Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75138-0614
President Chuck Poffenbarger
cpoffenearthlinknet Tel (972) 296-0388
Membership amp Address Changes Send your NEWSLETTER AD-DRESS and MEMBERSHIP chang-es and your MEMBERSHIP DUES to the AREA Membership Director Pat Weaver ken-patsbcglobalnet
Tel (972) 780-9810 Newsletter input Submit articles to the editor by e-mail to Marcia Kane kanemareawindstreamnet
AREA Web address httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Q Does the Heath Plan cover smoking cessation medications
A Yes The DoD Non-Appropriated Fund Health Benefit Plan covers a
six-month supply of FDA-approved smoking cessation medications
At any network pharmacy get your prescription filled for Bupropion SR or
other nicotine items such as gum inhaler patches etc Call Aetna today
for details at 1-800-367-6276 (the number on your insurance ID card)
Benefits QampAmdash Questions you ask answers from Exchange Benefits
Q Do any current retirees pay a premium for DoD NAF health insurance
coverage
A Yes we have a few retirees we were not grandfathered with the 100
premium-free benefit If you are one of those few retirees who currently pay
a premium note the premium tier changes published on page 4 that affects
you and all active associates
Q How does the Exchange know what tier is applicable
A Our enrollment system knows if currently covered dependents are
spouses or children so we will definitely get the personfamily into the
right tier for 2017 We just want them to be aware of which tier theyre in so
IF they are a person who pays premiums theyll know what to expect in
2017 And if a person wants to remove a covered dependent for 2017 (for
any reason) they need to call our office at 800-519-3381
Q Has there been a change to the policy on coverage of domestic
partners under the health plan
A Yes Same sex domestic partners can no longer be covered as if they were a spouse Instead theyrsquod have to follow rules of their state to become a same sex married spouse by January 1 2017 to stay eligible This is due to a June 2015 Supreme Court decision There is more information on the wwwnafhealthplanscom site The Exchange sent a letter last November to all our participants who currently cover a same sex domestic partner or part-nerrsquos children on this issue Q Did a Supreme Court decision also change the pension plan provision on survivor annuity benefits
A The pension planrsquos definition of spouse (a member of a union of one man and one woman as per state law) had been driven by the federal De-fense of Marriage Act (DOMA) When the Supreme Court struck DOMA down in mid-2013 spouse effectively became defined as lsquoa member of a union between two persons that is treated as marriage under state lawrsquo so AAFES changed the pension plan in 2014 to reflect that change Since then an associate in a same-sex marriage could (can now) elect a survivor annuity
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
Pag e 4 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Summary - Whatrsquos New With Benefits in 2017
If you are currently enrolled in retiree healthcare through the Exchange these items were explained in the
Open Enrollment newsletter mailed to your home address in November 2016 The electronic version is availa-
ble here httpswwwnafhealthplanscomenrollmentexchange
Whatrsquos not changing in 2017 Deductibles and coinsurance amounts for medical and dental and medical and prescription copays There are four changes described below which will take effect on January 1 2017 1 Four premium tiers In the past there were two premium tiers mdash individual (aka single) and family For 2017 this will change to four
tiers which will bring the DoD NAF plan in line with industry standard If you donrsquot pay premiums now as a retir-
ee this change does not affect you If you are a retiree who pays premiums for healthcare during retirement
it is important to know which tier you will fall into as the tier determines your premiums The four tiers are as fol-
lows
Retiree only Retiree + child(ren) Retiree + spouse Retiree + family (retiree + spouse + children)
2 Out-of-pocket maximum increases This is the maximum amount you pay for your share of covered expenses in a calendar year For the first time since 2006 the out-of-pocket maximums will increase in 2017 as shown below
2016 2017 In-Network Out-of-Network In-Network Out-of-Network
Individual $ 3000 $ 6000 $ 4000 $ 8000 Family of 2 $ 6000 $ 12000 $ 8000 $ 16000 Family of 3+ $ 9000 $ 18000 $ 12000 $ 24000 3 The Maintenance Choicereg Program We are steering you very strongly toward getting these maintenance medications in a 90-day supply by using either
Aetna Rx Home Deliveryreg mail-order pharmacy or a CVS pharmacy near you Maintenance medicines are those
used on a regular basis to treat or manage conditions such as asthma diabetes high blood pressure or high cholester-
ol You will pay the full cost of the medicine if you choose to continue to receive only a 30-day supply
NOTE CONUS members will receive additional information in late 2016 early 2017 about this change
4 The Exclusions Drug List This list shows categories of drugs that are covered by your plan and indicates specific drugs within each category
that will no longer be covered The drugs will no longer be covered because there are similar products with the same
active ingredients that are available at a lesser cost To view the list visit httpswwwnafhealthplanscomhealth-
benefitspharmacy-program NOTE All members received a letter in December 2016 outlining the change as well
as the list of drugs that will no longer be covered
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 5
Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for Pensions
The 2017 COLA increase for pensions is 30 effective with the December 2016 pension pay-
ments Retirees with an annuity start date of Dec 1 2015 or before will receive the entire in-
crease Those who have an annuity start date after Dec 1 2015 will receive a prorated COLA as
shown here
Retirement Annuity
Start Date
Year of Months
Retired
COLA Increase
starting
December 2016
December 2015 12 030
January 2016 11 028
February 2016 10 025
March 2016 9 023
April 2016 8 020
May 2016 7 018
June 2016 6 015
July 2016 5 013
August 2016 4 010
September 2016 3 008
October 2016 2 005
November 2016 1 003
December 2016 0 000
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
One of the benefits for Exchange retirees is that they are able to shop the Exchange DD form 2674 retiree Exchange card documents shopping privileges While DD form 2674 is a defense department ID card it is not an ID card recognized to grant access to the installations Exchange retirees who need access to an installation need to obtain a ldquochiplessrdquo common access card (CAC) Your local HRO can provide instructions on how to contact the in-stallation to obtain the card if the installation provides this service For those retirees located near the AAFES HQs building you may obtain your card through the Headquarters HR Office
Common Access Card (CAC) Needed for Access to Military Installations
Retirees - Have you tried it Online access to pension information 24 hrsday 7 daysweek httpsaafesretirementmypenpaycom Once you have signed in you can
Change address direct deposit bank information tax withholding
View 18 months of statements and tax forms from current and prior year
Request stop payments and reissue outstanding checks
Need help with your Username or Password Call State Streetrsquos pension administration office at 1-877-247-2769 or 1-904-791-2246 (International)
Reduce your Medical Deductible in 2017 with Health Incentive Credits
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
For 2017 the maximum health incentive credit an individual can earn is $250 The family maximum is
$600 In 2017 covered retirees and their covered spouse should have already completed the Compass Health Assess-
ment to earn the Health Incentive Credits If you have not done so do so now
Health Incentive Credit features
Applied to the medical deductible andor coinsurance as claims are processed The credit cannot be applied to copay-
ments such as PCP Specialist Emergency Room Urgent Care copays Hospital confinement fees or pharmacy co-
pays
middot The credit will roll over every year until used up to 3 years
middot Credits are displayed on the Explanation of Benefits and in Aetna Navigator
Here are a few things you need to know
The Compass Health Assessment is a new and improved questionnaire that takes just 10 minutes to com-
plete Members answer questions about personal and family health history lifestyle habits recent screening results
and other health factors Since this is a brand new assessment members will need to complete it instead of just adding
updates as no previous answers will be carried over No other activities will earn credits until the assessment is com-
pleted To take the assessment log in to wwwaetnacom and click ldquoI want to Take a Health Assessmentrdquo on the
home page
These credits will be placed in an account and applied towards the first family memberrsquos claim where the deductible
andor coinsurance would be applied
Activity Health Incentive Credit Amount Calendar Year Maxi-
mum
Complete metabolic syndrome
screening before April 1 2017
$150 each $150 for employee only
and $300 for employee
and covered spouse Complete metabolic syndrome
screening between April 1 and
November 30 2017
$100 each
Disease Management (DM) goal ndash
complete 3 calls with a DM nurse
$100 each
Complete online journey (average
time 32 days)
$ 50 each up to four journeys $200 for employee only
or $400 for family
Dependent Children
Under Age 18
Have a preventive care exam $ 50 for each child pre- year
Pag e 6 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 7
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
In October we announced that Ken Weaver resigned as the AREA Representative on the Trustees
board and Terry Corley became the new AREA Representative Renee Figge who had recently retired
as AAFES CFO agreed to be the Alternate If you donrsquot already know Renee here is a short recap of
her career
Renee began her career with the Exchange in 1986 as a Management Trainee in San Antonio Her first
assignment was a field accountant in the New England Area From there she held numerous manage-
ment position in the Controller division where she was part of the team establishing the Integrated Gen-
eral Ledger Accounting System (IGLAS) in 1993 Next Renee worked in Treasury and was named the
Assistant Treasurer responsible for the daily operations of Treasury Management In 2006 she was
named the Exchange Treasurer As Treasurer she managed traditional corporate financial functions including treasury manage-
ment risk management benefit administration pension and investments private label consumer credit and collections She was
named Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in March 2014 the first female CFO of AAFES Renee was born
and raised in Westminster Mass and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Fitchburg State College
Mass She is also a Certified Public Accountant
Get Your Metabolic Syndrome Screening
DoD NAF Health Plan Members have you completed your metabolic syndrome screening The screening is an im-
portant step to learn about your risk for metabolic syndrome a group of health factors that can set the stage for serious
health conditions Itrsquos also a way for you and your covered spouse to each earn a $150 incentive credit
Herersquos How to schedule your FREE screening today
bull Go to MyQuestForHealthcom
bull Click ldquoRegister Nowrdquo in the ldquoNot Registered Yetrdquo box
bull Enter registration key DoD2017
bull Enter your member ID from your Aetna ID card (starts with ldquoWrdquo) Your spouse must add an ldquoSrdquo to the end of your
member ID number and enter your date of birth
bull Select ldquoGet Startedrdquo to go to the screening home page
bull Select ldquoSchedule Nowrdquo and follow the prompts to schedule your appointment
You can also call Quest at 1-866-697-8378 to make your screening appointment
Or if you choose you may have your own doctor complete the screening
You must still follow the instructions above to register with Quest This will allow you to download the Physician Re-
sults Report Form your doctor must complete and fax to Quest so you will be able to earn the incentive Note You
may be charged a fee if your screening is not part of a routine physical exam Aetna International members must use
this option as there are no Quest locations outside the US
Learn about additional ways to earn your health incentive credits
Employees with individual coverage can earn $250 in credits and employees with family coverage can earn $600
Visit wwwnafhealthplanscomgtWellness amp Resources or call Member Services at 1-800-367-6276 to learn more
REMEMBER The online health assessment is required as a first step to earn ANY credits To take the health
assessment log in at wwwaetnacom and click ldquoI want to Take a Health Assessmentrdquo on the left side of your home
page Once you have completed your biometric screening and have received your results make sure to record them in
your health assessment
Pag e 8 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
2017 AREA Scholarship Program
Since 1985 AREA has provided educational opportunities to ldquoAAFES Kidsrdquo through its schol-arship program This coming year AREA plans to award $29000 in scholarships to nine gradu-ating high school seniors Amounts are one $5000 and eight $3000 awards
2017 will mark the 28th anniversary of the AREA scholarship program the only program de-signed to directly benefit AAFES employeesrsquo and assigned militaryrsquos children To date AREA has provided $715795 in scholarship awards to 337 deserving students ndash many of whom may not have even started college without the AREA boost Now that is something we should all be proud of
So how does the program work Herersquos a short synopsis
The program is limited to graduating high school seniors One of the parents must have been an AAFES employee or assigned military on January 1 of the award year had at least twelve consecutive months of Exchange employment or in the case of military personnel Exchange assignment For a deceased parent the twelve-month employment requirement must have been met at the time of death Applications must be sent to the scholarship committee during the designated enrollment period ndash January 1 through March 31 of each year An application form is available on the AREA web site at httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-associationcommunity-programsscholarshipshtm The same site sets out the specific requirements for making application eg application period minimum SAT and ACT scores etc All application criteria are laid out on the web site The 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
ALA Luncheon and Charity Auction
Dec 9 ndash The American Logistics Asso-
ciation held a luncheon and donated
items were auctioned off by legendary
Dallas Cowboy football player Randy
White Bill Doyle DFW ALA Chapter
president presented AREA President
Chuck Poffenbarger and Scholarship
Fund Manager Michelle Priester a
check for $7500 for the AREA Schol-
arship Fund
Bill Doyle Michelle Priester and
Chuck Poffenbarger
PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75138-0614
Michelle Priester and Randy White
PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75138-0614
Community ServicemdashFall 2016
We recognize AREA chapter members 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 Recipients were provided with a Certificate of Appreciation and a recognition letter signed by the
program director and president AREA
COMMUNITY AWARD RECIPIENTS
RON CLEMENT PRESIDENT
COLUMBIA RIVER CHAPTER
VANCOUVER WASHINGTON STATE
Ron makes arrangements for all meetings ie lunches updates etc send out updates from the National AREA
and keeps us up-to-date with all AAFES happenings He has an extremely positive attitude despite health issues
and is solely responsible for keeping all the members in our chapter together
BILL EDDINGS MEMBER
NORTH TEXAS CHAPTER
DALLASFORT WORTH TEXAS
Bill is responsible for his Neighborhood Night Out program He organizes the program and gets groups to come
in and speak including the police etc to address safety issues He also gets tables set up for volunteer organiza-
tions such as Meals on Wheels to recruit volunteers
AREA JUST FOR YOU
During a visit to Nellis Air Force Base Army amp Air Force Exchange Service DirectorCEO Tom Shull and David Nelson Chief Operating Officer paid trib-ute to Lt Col Thomas ldquoMosesrdquo Bouley brother of retired Western Region Senior Vice President Ed Bouley Lt Col Bouley 65th Aggression Squadron Commander gave the ultimate sacrifice for this nation during an F-15 crash on the Nevada Test and Training Range in July 2008 Bouley Hall home to the 65th AGRS is named in his honor
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 9
Tom Shull and David Nelson
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Pag e 10 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Lynda Tanaka Adrienne Hamada Frank Cedeno Pauline Ung Mary Ann Asato Pat Watson and Bill Allgire
Rose Kawata Alice Suma
and Margaret Hasegawa Brave game contestants Dot Irvine Ethel Miguel
Jan and Mel Santana Ruth Shiroma Cynthia Hoag Ardell Katsura Roy Miura and Marlene Tokuhisa
Our donation to the Hawaii Foodbank
The Aloha Chapter held its annual Christmas party on Sunday 4 Dec at its perennial location -- The Pearl Country Club The Chapter has been holding its holiday function here for the past 20 years So they are like family to us by now A Prime Rib buffet luncheon was arranged with Baked Mahi Mahi Korean style BBQ Chicken with all the attending salads and veggies A total of 57 members spouses and guestsmdashwith one very special guest this year FRANK CEDENOmdashenjoyed the buffet games door prizes Christmas spirit and camaraderie Frank worked at the old PACEX HQ in the early 70s at the Queen Emma building and helped in the transition to its newer location on 919 Ala Moana Blvd An election of Officers was held with BILL ALLGIRE being elected as President LAURI SANTOS Treasurer and PAULINE UNG Secretary Seventeen $$$ door prizes were given away with the two $50 cash prizes being won by LANI AKI and ELAINE TAKAHASI Grand Prize winners of $50 were MARY ANN ASATO FRANCES SAITO MILTON SHIMIZU and ROY MIURAmdash with the final $100 Grand Prize being won by ETHEL MIGUEL -- wining more with her AAFES family than her recent trip to Vegas Everyone left with renewed energy and filled with the Christmas Spirit
Aloha ChaptermdashBill Allgire
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 11
Alamo ChaptermdashBrenda Borland
The Alamo Chapter in San Antonio has many events throughout the year Different hosts sponsor the events Our Dinner in September was held at Caparellis Restaurant and was hosted by Marilyn and Javier Cerna
Len and Rhonda Freitas James and Norma
Thompson Doris Morris
Brenda Borland and Song Choe
Tony and Ella Trevino
Bilge Cordani and
Claire Guillemette
Judy and Lee Rux Marilyn and Javier Cerna Janice and Bill Dobbs
Mike Bresnok and
Shannon Soefje
Kim Mathews and
Dan Forsch
Ruth Lown Lois Lown
and Roy Hines
Ken Limtiaco Mike and
Betty Rohrer Paula Hall Virginia and
Bob Askew
Ann and Tim Brogan
Attending but not pictured
Kathy Jackson and Mark Porter
Dix-McGuire Chapter- Fran Stanley
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
The DIX- MCGUIRE RETIREE S ASSOCIATION held its fall luncheon on September 12 2016 at a favor ite location Cracker Barrel in Bur lington New J ersey There were 50 members in attendance Everyone enjoyed catching up with for -mer co-workers friends and new acquaintances There was plenty of good food camaraderie and door prizes to go around The AREA benefits briefing conducted in June 2016 was discussed and copies of pertinent information distributed to the author-ized members Many were amazed at additional benefits available to them through their Aetna insurance Jan Terry wife of Errol Lawrence provide the group with upcoming events including an Artists Reception and a water-color class at her Art Gallery Many members have taken classes provided by Jan and find them enjoyable Eloise Thomas invited the group to take advantage and join the Browns Mills senior citizen group for adventures to places including bus trips to Atlantic City Casi-nos Honorary member and long-time customer Therese Hall celebrated her 95th birthday with the group Asked what she attributes her youthful appearance and diligent restraint to aging she replied that she comes from a family with good genes She said to do what you like but in moderation Other birthday wishes were made to Joyce Carr Earl Scott Vince Pesini and Erna Jackson Also the group was informed that Toni Long Retired Manager had passed away in South Carolina after a lengthy illness Sympa-thy cards were sent to Tonirsquos daughters on behalf of the group Several members expressed how much our card program meant to them comments were made by Peggy Forcey Vince Pesini Bob Bryant and Therese Hall Door prizes were won by Patty Puryear Fran Stanley Carrine Simms Fannie Anderson Mr Carter and Barbara Robinson and server Brittany The 5050 was won by Barbara Puryear
Pag e 12 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Kay and Vince Pisini Yoshiko
Brown and Reiko Williams
Evelyn Sprague Marianne Overhiser Katie
Barrett Edna Rock and Velma Watkins
Barbara Puryear Priscilla Parker
Patti Puryear and Glenn Parker
Arlene Cornish Sandi Grady Nedra
Harris and Barbara Robinson Fannie Anderson Welton Chase Hank
Fleming and his Guest Our 95 year old Queen of the Day
Therese Hall with Fran Stanley
Beatrice Hargrove Carrine Simms Joyce Carr and Betty OBrien
Patti Rahilly Jones
and Marie Rahilly
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 13
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Dix-McGuire Chapter - Fran Stanley
The Ft Dix-McGuire Chapter members met to celebrate Christmas at OrsquoConnerrsquos ( formally known as Charleyrsquos Other Brother) in Mt Holly New Jersey Despite the rainy day we had over 50 members and guests in attendance who enjoyed the event Holiday music was playing in the background as participants enjoyed playing trivia games for numerous gifts as well as door prizes There was plenty of good food games and gifts to go around Participants were able to choose from London Broil Chicken Parmesan or Stuff shells as their main entreacutee Each meal came with a house salad two vegetables dinner rolls coffee tea and a holiday desert This year the members were able to sign Christmas cards that were sent to for-mer members who now live outside the state or were too ill to attend The 5050 winner Richard Schmelia generously donated $25 back to the group to help send out fruit baskets to those too ill to attend The camaraderie displayed among the group reminded us how awesome it was to work for an organization that was more than a busi-ness and more like a fami-ly May God continue to bless each of you
Earl Scott Robert Bryant and Sylvia Brown William Henriquez Reyes Errol Lawrence Jane Terri Lawrence Luis Lopez
Elaine Brown Therese Hall Monica Frederick and Edna Rock
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Golden Gate ChaptermdashErnest Kodama
Golden Gate AREA Chapter held its Christmas Luncheon on December 10 at the Spinnaker Restaurant in Sausalito CA Attending the luncheon were Mary Lou Geimer George Wills Dennis Gilman Arline Gilman Lou
Vitalie Arlene Hadfield Julia Lee Joan Turner Chick Kretz Gina Kretz Toni DeBardeleben Stanlee Garriot and Ernie Kodama
Pag e 14 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Northern California Chapter ndash Ken ldquoTomrdquo Keim
We began our fall season with a luncheon meeting at Mimirsquos of Elk Grove Members and guests attending were Renate
Atkinson and daughter Deborah Margaret Belcher Edit Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Dianne Hobbs
Celia Hudson Rosa LaBoeuf Tina Minjarez Kristin Taylor Jerri Thomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Stella and Michael
Winch The group discussed possible activities for the upcoming year such as a Sacramento train ride winery tour at Apple
Hill garage sale picnic BBQ in the ark and a casino visit Members were asked to give feedback on which of these most ap-
peal to Chapter members
Our October luncheon meeting at El Tapatio was attended by the following members and guests Margaret Belcher Rosie
Boyce Edie Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Arlene Ferry and daughter Debbie Dianne Hobbs Margie
Iwamoto Ken Keim Rosa LaBoeuf Richard Mason Gloria Masse Tina Minjarez Ellen Rivera Margie Scheatzle Kristin
Taylor Jerri Toomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Lee Woodward
October November and December are the busiest time of the year The annual fall bake and used book sale was held on Octo-
ber 29 at McClellan BX The annual holiday auction was held following the regular November 9 luncheon meeting at the IHOP on Sunrise Blvd and we held our gala Christmas luncheon on December 11 at Zinfandel Grill
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 15
Gulf Coast Chapter - Jan Comstock
Super fun and exciting AAFES Retiree Christmas luncheon 62 in attendance We had a blast We had to renew our
membership and pay our $500 dues for the year We had a great raffle and also brought in can goods for the food
banks in our area A great big thank you and job well done to Steve Friend and Regina Steve Mitchell and Susan
attended both doing so much better Missed three that could not attend We had so much fun with our signsmdashfound
out we have a lot of naughty ladies They all asked for the naughty sign A big plus for me was that the group
sang Happy Birthday to me The waitress surprised me with a slice of chocolate cake with a candle and ice cream We
also recognized the other December birthday Merry Christmas
Scott Maynard Billy Hullen-der and Brenda Hullender
Olive Bobo and Marcia Watts Harville
Isabelle Good Hender-shot and Gail Golden Escobedo
See many more photos on Jan Comstockrsquos Facebook page
Jan Comstock
North Texas ChaptermdashRichard Sheff and Linda Dean
The North Texas Chapter of AREA has been busy this past quarter attending events such as the music of Johnny Cash a FREE Membership Appreciation Luncheon and a Holiday Celebration amp Gift Ex-change Please follow us on our Facebook page at North Texas Chapter of AREA to see all of the pic-tures
ldquoRing of Firerdquo at the Addison Water Tower Theatre Oct 16 ndash NTC-AREA members attended a play that
included the music of Johnny Cash After the Johnny Cash music we enjoyed dinner at BJrsquos Restaurant and
Brewhouse
Linda Dean Jerry amp Carlon Cloud
and Sarah Rabb Marilyn amp Leon Levin Doug amp Gail Olney Lina amp Chuck Poffenbarger
Membership Appreciation FREE Luncheon at Rudyrsquos BBQ Nov 3 ndash Annually the North Texas Chapter of
AREA has a FREE appreciation luncheon for members This year 103 members enjoyed barbecue at Rudyrsquos
Barbecue amp Country Store
Even with 2 serving tables the lines were long There was plenty of food for everyone
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Continued on next page
Pag e 16 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Take coverhellip Richard Sheff has a knife to cut the cake
NTC-AREA Board Meeting at HQ Nov 11 - After a NTC-AREA board meeting at HQ some of the members ran into some of the active Exchange Executives Dave Nelson and Ana Middleton From left to right Roy Robertson Jr Debbie Kliment Byerly Tom Branning Dave Nelson Richard Sheff Ana Middle-ton Jack Leavitt and Dale Linebarger
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Annual Holiday Celebration amp Gift Exchange Dec 4 ndash To celebrate the holiday season NTC-AREA members
gathered for a late luncheon at the YO Ranch Steakhouse The food was good and we had a private room for social-
izing and fun with the gift exchange
56 members attended the party at the YO Ranch Steakhouse So many pretty packages
to choose from
NTC President
Richard Sheff and
Master of Ceremo-
nies always
makes the gift ex-
change so much
fun
Bobbye Towns wearing
her Christmas gift Do you
think wersquoll see it again
next year
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos
Pat Weaver writes ldquoIf the mem-
bers want to know why their
checks are delayed this is the rea-
son The little Christmas trees are
my lsquoRed Neckrsquo trees They have
gun shells on them for lightsrdquo I
made all the ceramic pieces such
as the Santas and manger scenes
(See more photos on page 23)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 17
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith
In the summer of 1973 the Exchange transferred me from the Colorado Area Ex-change Fort Carson CO where I was the Services Operations Manager to the Okina-wa Regional Exchange as Chief of Services I was a 13 year veteran of AAFES at that time starting when I graduated High School in 1960 with the George AFB Exchange Victorville CA My first job was a Petroleum Transfer Engineer a Pump Island At-tendant for the unlearned Okinawa was our first overseas assignment and it was the first time my wife and children would fly My four year old son at the time would look up in the sky at an airplane and ask his Mother lsquoCanrsquot Daddy drive the car to Okinawarsquo We could never find the lsquobridgersquo across the Pacific so fly it was
We stopped over in Hawaii for several days to straighten out some passport issues for my family then it was on to Okinawa We landed at the lsquotail endrsquo of a Typhoon with scores of airport employees meeting the aircraft with umbrellas ushering us to a bus to take to us to the terminal Much of the Naha Airport was open to the outside in 1973 which would have been a delight except it was raining very hard with high winds John Hanson was our sponsor and met us at
the exit to Customs and welcomed us to Okinawa He and Lydie took very good care of us and helped us to acclimate ourselves to Okinawa life
It took us a few weeks to get our quarters assigned to us and with lsquoaddressrsquo and direc-tions in hand we drove to see it According to the house numbers it was an empty lot overgrown with trees and weeds 20rsquo tall After several passes searching to make sure I was not overlooking the address I was getting ready to go back to the housing office when my daughter said lsquolook Daddy I can see a roofrsquo I stopped and walked through the undergrowth to a house that appeared to have been sitting empty for a while Later that evening I told John Hanson that we found the house but it will take a little bit of work to clear the growth to where we can live in the house With the help of a lsquoPapa-sanrsquo we were able to do so quickly and settled in for life on Okinawa
While in Hawaii my children begged me to go to the beach which I refused because I told them lsquowe are going to live on an island for three years you can swim when we get therersquo However the Okinawa of 1973 is not the Okinawa of today The only beach for swimming we could find was Okuma on the Northern part of the Island The other shore line was riddled with volcanic rock which required you to wear lsquocombat bootsrsquo to walk However we loved it
The Okinawa of today 40 plus years later is much dif-ferent Pat and I were offered the opportunity to come back for three months to lsquofill inrsquo for a Missionary Pas-tor in the Church we were members of while here in the 70rsquos who needed to return to the States for that pe-riod of time We were immediately reminded lsquowe live in a different worldrsquo today than that we experienced four decades ago with the added security at airports the
enhanced visa checks customs inspectiondeclaration and when we were met with the lsquoclosedrsquo Military Installations that were open in the 1970rsquos
But the thing that had not changed is the politeness of the Japanese people We flew into Tokyo Narita Airport and had to catch a bus for the 45 minute drive to Haneda Air-port where our flight departed to Okinawa The attendants were striking with their cus-tomary bow to all who boarded the bus and we were met with this same courtesy when the bus arrived at Haneda and again when we exited the plane at Naha Okinawa In the Restaurants the stores-large and small-we have been met with this ever present polite welcome
Our hour drive from the Airport to Church apartments on the evening of our arrival introduced us to a modern Express Way ex-tending the full length of the Island and a lsquospider likersquo network of roads leading to all parts of the Islands A number of the 1970 Military Installations have been returned to the Japanese Government and replaced with lsquohigh risersquo buildings
On what used to be the Awase Golf Course is now the Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom a multistory mall that would rival any mod-ern mall we might find in the States The Express Way frequently maneuvers through tunnels carved out of the limited moun-tains on Okinawa the coral shores have been replaced with sand and beaches are plentiful as are numerous scenic drives through the countryside
Pag e 18 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Don amp Patsy Smith
I have not been able to verify the figures but I recall using population figures in the 1970rsquos of 300000 today that population exceeds 1300000 Okinawa has become Mainland Japanrsquos Hawaii resort Island
During our time here the enhanced security has required us to lsquoget a passrsquo for Pat as she does not have a CAC which I have to enter the Military Installations One of the Church members sponsored her allowing us to visit many of the Exchange Facili-ties Today Futenma Kadena Hansen Torii Schwab Foster and Kinser are the major facilities remaining on the Island
I remember in the 70rsquos sharing with my Okinawan counter parts the need for the Exchange Facilities to lsquolook like homersquo for the Americans They of course were willing to help but my Automotive Tech Rep Arkaki-san asked me lsquowhat does home look likersquo We were trying to emulate the lsquoappearancersquo of our Stateside BasePost Exchanges but knowing they would not know what they looked like I told him we need to make them look like SEARS we did not have Wal-Mart in those days
He and the others nodded and we went about working on the lsquofacadesrsquo of the scattered Service Facilities we had all over the Island On one occasion I invited lsquomy guysrsquo to our home for a cook out with homemade ice cream and Arkaki-san asked how I thought our efforts were coming along with the lsquolookrsquo as I called it I told him I was very pleased and more important so were our customers He then told me lsquoI am happy because none of us know this SEARS you talk about what does it look likersquo I learned a lesson that day lsquodonrsquot always assume your counterpart in a different country understands the word picture you are trying to sharersquo
But back to today the Exchange folks here continue with that lsquolook of homersquo approach The added franchise facilities like Chilirsquos Subway Popeyes Baskin Robbins and of course one of my favorites one of the original Exchange self-franchises Anthonyrsquos Pizza dates back to lsquomy daysrsquo
Being in a lsquoMilitaryrsquo Church I have had to opportunity to talk with many Military Families from the Air Force Army Ma-rines and Navy My lsquoMarinersquo friends will ask lsquowhy did not you list the Marines first we always arrive firstrsquo But I chose to list them alphabetically to not offend either of the branches They each are among the lsquofinestrsquo of the young men and women who serve our country I am proud to be with them even if only for a short while All I have met are lsquothrilledrsquo with the Ex-change Facilities on Okinawa In fact one Marine told me lsquoit is a touch of homersquo
So to the Exchange Family in Okinawa lsquoGreat Jobrsquo
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith (Continued)
In the News From a December 15 e-mail from Jim Henry ldquo In case you missed it Darren Woods son of Dale and Karen Woods was named today to be Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mo-bil Darren replaces Rex Tillerson who is being nominated for Secretary of State Dale and Karen hope you dont mind me bragging on Darren a little You must be awfully proud of himrdquo
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 19
IN REMEMBRANCE
ERENEO COPADA 89 Aug 20 in San Francisco CA The Presidio of San Francisco Safety and Security Assistant retired in 1998
DENNIS JONES 81 died July 12 in Dallas TX The Frankfurt General Manager retired in 1986
BILLY GILES 77 died Aug 10 in Red Oak TX The HQ Computer Systems analyst retired in 1995
Antoinette (Toni) Long 79 died Sept 4 in Hampton SC The Los Angeles AFB General Manager retired in 1992
THOMAS SAVAGEAU 79 died Aug 23 in Ajijic Jalisco Mexico The HQ Associate retired in 1989
JOHN SHARP 59 died May 12 in Ovilla TX The Europe Egion Area manager retired in 2013
PAUL TAFF 90 died Aug 21 in Arlington TX The HQ Associate retired in 1983
ROBERT WILLINGHAM 84 died Sept 28 in Dallas TX The HQ Associate retired in 1993
DOUGLAS WOODHOUSE 64 died Oct 1 in Mobile AL The HQ Management Analyst retired in 2006
Pag e 20 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
WILLS ldquoFrom time to time retired associates of AAFES leave be-quests to the AREA in their will If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that pre-pares your formally written and executed will with the follow-ing sample clause If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause I give (blank dollarsproperty) to the Army Air Force Ex-change Service Retired Employees Association (AREA) PO Box 380614 Duncanville Texas 75138
Other Chapter reported deaths
George John Vomvoris legendary AAFES Food amp Services Executive (76) passed
away on November 18 2016 with his family by his side in Waxahachie Texas
Also we received news that Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur who is well known as
the first female super rate in AAFES passed away at age 88 in early November
(See eulogy on pages 21-23 by Aubrey Rembold)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 3
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
AAFES Retired
Employees Association
The AREA Newsletter is published in January April July and October
Mailing Address
AREA P O Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75138-0614
President Chuck Poffenbarger
cpoffenearthlinknet Tel (972) 296-0388
Membership amp Address Changes Send your NEWSLETTER AD-DRESS and MEMBERSHIP chang-es and your MEMBERSHIP DUES to the AREA Membership Director Pat Weaver ken-patsbcglobalnet
Tel (972) 780-9810 Newsletter input Submit articles to the editor by e-mail to Marcia Kane kanemareawindstreamnet
AREA Web address httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Q Does the Heath Plan cover smoking cessation medications
A Yes The DoD Non-Appropriated Fund Health Benefit Plan covers a
six-month supply of FDA-approved smoking cessation medications
At any network pharmacy get your prescription filled for Bupropion SR or
other nicotine items such as gum inhaler patches etc Call Aetna today
for details at 1-800-367-6276 (the number on your insurance ID card)
Benefits QampAmdash Questions you ask answers from Exchange Benefits
Q Do any current retirees pay a premium for DoD NAF health insurance
coverage
A Yes we have a few retirees we were not grandfathered with the 100
premium-free benefit If you are one of those few retirees who currently pay
a premium note the premium tier changes published on page 4 that affects
you and all active associates
Q How does the Exchange know what tier is applicable
A Our enrollment system knows if currently covered dependents are
spouses or children so we will definitely get the personfamily into the
right tier for 2017 We just want them to be aware of which tier theyre in so
IF they are a person who pays premiums theyll know what to expect in
2017 And if a person wants to remove a covered dependent for 2017 (for
any reason) they need to call our office at 800-519-3381
Q Has there been a change to the policy on coverage of domestic
partners under the health plan
A Yes Same sex domestic partners can no longer be covered as if they were a spouse Instead theyrsquod have to follow rules of their state to become a same sex married spouse by January 1 2017 to stay eligible This is due to a June 2015 Supreme Court decision There is more information on the wwwnafhealthplanscom site The Exchange sent a letter last November to all our participants who currently cover a same sex domestic partner or part-nerrsquos children on this issue Q Did a Supreme Court decision also change the pension plan provision on survivor annuity benefits
A The pension planrsquos definition of spouse (a member of a union of one man and one woman as per state law) had been driven by the federal De-fense of Marriage Act (DOMA) When the Supreme Court struck DOMA down in mid-2013 spouse effectively became defined as lsquoa member of a union between two persons that is treated as marriage under state lawrsquo so AAFES changed the pension plan in 2014 to reflect that change Since then an associate in a same-sex marriage could (can now) elect a survivor annuity
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
Pag e 4 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Summary - Whatrsquos New With Benefits in 2017
If you are currently enrolled in retiree healthcare through the Exchange these items were explained in the
Open Enrollment newsletter mailed to your home address in November 2016 The electronic version is availa-
ble here httpswwwnafhealthplanscomenrollmentexchange
Whatrsquos not changing in 2017 Deductibles and coinsurance amounts for medical and dental and medical and prescription copays There are four changes described below which will take effect on January 1 2017 1 Four premium tiers In the past there were two premium tiers mdash individual (aka single) and family For 2017 this will change to four
tiers which will bring the DoD NAF plan in line with industry standard If you donrsquot pay premiums now as a retir-
ee this change does not affect you If you are a retiree who pays premiums for healthcare during retirement
it is important to know which tier you will fall into as the tier determines your premiums The four tiers are as fol-
lows
Retiree only Retiree + child(ren) Retiree + spouse Retiree + family (retiree + spouse + children)
2 Out-of-pocket maximum increases This is the maximum amount you pay for your share of covered expenses in a calendar year For the first time since 2006 the out-of-pocket maximums will increase in 2017 as shown below
2016 2017 In-Network Out-of-Network In-Network Out-of-Network
Individual $ 3000 $ 6000 $ 4000 $ 8000 Family of 2 $ 6000 $ 12000 $ 8000 $ 16000 Family of 3+ $ 9000 $ 18000 $ 12000 $ 24000 3 The Maintenance Choicereg Program We are steering you very strongly toward getting these maintenance medications in a 90-day supply by using either
Aetna Rx Home Deliveryreg mail-order pharmacy or a CVS pharmacy near you Maintenance medicines are those
used on a regular basis to treat or manage conditions such as asthma diabetes high blood pressure or high cholester-
ol You will pay the full cost of the medicine if you choose to continue to receive only a 30-day supply
NOTE CONUS members will receive additional information in late 2016 early 2017 about this change
4 The Exclusions Drug List This list shows categories of drugs that are covered by your plan and indicates specific drugs within each category
that will no longer be covered The drugs will no longer be covered because there are similar products with the same
active ingredients that are available at a lesser cost To view the list visit httpswwwnafhealthplanscomhealth-
benefitspharmacy-program NOTE All members received a letter in December 2016 outlining the change as well
as the list of drugs that will no longer be covered
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 5
Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for Pensions
The 2017 COLA increase for pensions is 30 effective with the December 2016 pension pay-
ments Retirees with an annuity start date of Dec 1 2015 or before will receive the entire in-
crease Those who have an annuity start date after Dec 1 2015 will receive a prorated COLA as
shown here
Retirement Annuity
Start Date
Year of Months
Retired
COLA Increase
starting
December 2016
December 2015 12 030
January 2016 11 028
February 2016 10 025
March 2016 9 023
April 2016 8 020
May 2016 7 018
June 2016 6 015
July 2016 5 013
August 2016 4 010
September 2016 3 008
October 2016 2 005
November 2016 1 003
December 2016 0 000
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
One of the benefits for Exchange retirees is that they are able to shop the Exchange DD form 2674 retiree Exchange card documents shopping privileges While DD form 2674 is a defense department ID card it is not an ID card recognized to grant access to the installations Exchange retirees who need access to an installation need to obtain a ldquochiplessrdquo common access card (CAC) Your local HRO can provide instructions on how to contact the in-stallation to obtain the card if the installation provides this service For those retirees located near the AAFES HQs building you may obtain your card through the Headquarters HR Office
Common Access Card (CAC) Needed for Access to Military Installations
Retirees - Have you tried it Online access to pension information 24 hrsday 7 daysweek httpsaafesretirementmypenpaycom Once you have signed in you can
Change address direct deposit bank information tax withholding
View 18 months of statements and tax forms from current and prior year
Request stop payments and reissue outstanding checks
Need help with your Username or Password Call State Streetrsquos pension administration office at 1-877-247-2769 or 1-904-791-2246 (International)
Reduce your Medical Deductible in 2017 with Health Incentive Credits
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
For 2017 the maximum health incentive credit an individual can earn is $250 The family maximum is
$600 In 2017 covered retirees and their covered spouse should have already completed the Compass Health Assess-
ment to earn the Health Incentive Credits If you have not done so do so now
Health Incentive Credit features
Applied to the medical deductible andor coinsurance as claims are processed The credit cannot be applied to copay-
ments such as PCP Specialist Emergency Room Urgent Care copays Hospital confinement fees or pharmacy co-
pays
middot The credit will roll over every year until used up to 3 years
middot Credits are displayed on the Explanation of Benefits and in Aetna Navigator
Here are a few things you need to know
The Compass Health Assessment is a new and improved questionnaire that takes just 10 minutes to com-
plete Members answer questions about personal and family health history lifestyle habits recent screening results
and other health factors Since this is a brand new assessment members will need to complete it instead of just adding
updates as no previous answers will be carried over No other activities will earn credits until the assessment is com-
pleted To take the assessment log in to wwwaetnacom and click ldquoI want to Take a Health Assessmentrdquo on the
home page
These credits will be placed in an account and applied towards the first family memberrsquos claim where the deductible
andor coinsurance would be applied
Activity Health Incentive Credit Amount Calendar Year Maxi-
mum
Complete metabolic syndrome
screening before April 1 2017
$150 each $150 for employee only
and $300 for employee
and covered spouse Complete metabolic syndrome
screening between April 1 and
November 30 2017
$100 each
Disease Management (DM) goal ndash
complete 3 calls with a DM nurse
$100 each
Complete online journey (average
time 32 days)
$ 50 each up to four journeys $200 for employee only
or $400 for family
Dependent Children
Under Age 18
Have a preventive care exam $ 50 for each child pre- year
Pag e 6 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 7
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
In October we announced that Ken Weaver resigned as the AREA Representative on the Trustees
board and Terry Corley became the new AREA Representative Renee Figge who had recently retired
as AAFES CFO agreed to be the Alternate If you donrsquot already know Renee here is a short recap of
her career
Renee began her career with the Exchange in 1986 as a Management Trainee in San Antonio Her first
assignment was a field accountant in the New England Area From there she held numerous manage-
ment position in the Controller division where she was part of the team establishing the Integrated Gen-
eral Ledger Accounting System (IGLAS) in 1993 Next Renee worked in Treasury and was named the
Assistant Treasurer responsible for the daily operations of Treasury Management In 2006 she was
named the Exchange Treasurer As Treasurer she managed traditional corporate financial functions including treasury manage-
ment risk management benefit administration pension and investments private label consumer credit and collections She was
named Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in March 2014 the first female CFO of AAFES Renee was born
and raised in Westminster Mass and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Fitchburg State College
Mass She is also a Certified Public Accountant
Get Your Metabolic Syndrome Screening
DoD NAF Health Plan Members have you completed your metabolic syndrome screening The screening is an im-
portant step to learn about your risk for metabolic syndrome a group of health factors that can set the stage for serious
health conditions Itrsquos also a way for you and your covered spouse to each earn a $150 incentive credit
Herersquos How to schedule your FREE screening today
bull Go to MyQuestForHealthcom
bull Click ldquoRegister Nowrdquo in the ldquoNot Registered Yetrdquo box
bull Enter registration key DoD2017
bull Enter your member ID from your Aetna ID card (starts with ldquoWrdquo) Your spouse must add an ldquoSrdquo to the end of your
member ID number and enter your date of birth
bull Select ldquoGet Startedrdquo to go to the screening home page
bull Select ldquoSchedule Nowrdquo and follow the prompts to schedule your appointment
You can also call Quest at 1-866-697-8378 to make your screening appointment
Or if you choose you may have your own doctor complete the screening
You must still follow the instructions above to register with Quest This will allow you to download the Physician Re-
sults Report Form your doctor must complete and fax to Quest so you will be able to earn the incentive Note You
may be charged a fee if your screening is not part of a routine physical exam Aetna International members must use
this option as there are no Quest locations outside the US
Learn about additional ways to earn your health incentive credits
Employees with individual coverage can earn $250 in credits and employees with family coverage can earn $600
Visit wwwnafhealthplanscomgtWellness amp Resources or call Member Services at 1-800-367-6276 to learn more
REMEMBER The online health assessment is required as a first step to earn ANY credits To take the health
assessment log in at wwwaetnacom and click ldquoI want to Take a Health Assessmentrdquo on the left side of your home
page Once you have completed your biometric screening and have received your results make sure to record them in
your health assessment
Pag e 8 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
2017 AREA Scholarship Program
Since 1985 AREA has provided educational opportunities to ldquoAAFES Kidsrdquo through its schol-arship program This coming year AREA plans to award $29000 in scholarships to nine gradu-ating high school seniors Amounts are one $5000 and eight $3000 awards
2017 will mark the 28th anniversary of the AREA scholarship program the only program de-signed to directly benefit AAFES employeesrsquo and assigned militaryrsquos children To date AREA has provided $715795 in scholarship awards to 337 deserving students ndash many of whom may not have even started college without the AREA boost Now that is something we should all be proud of
So how does the program work Herersquos a short synopsis
The program is limited to graduating high school seniors One of the parents must have been an AAFES employee or assigned military on January 1 of the award year had at least twelve consecutive months of Exchange employment or in the case of military personnel Exchange assignment For a deceased parent the twelve-month employment requirement must have been met at the time of death Applications must be sent to the scholarship committee during the designated enrollment period ndash January 1 through March 31 of each year An application form is available on the AREA web site at httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-associationcommunity-programsscholarshipshtm The same site sets out the specific requirements for making application eg application period minimum SAT and ACT scores etc All application criteria are laid out on the web site The 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
ALA Luncheon and Charity Auction
Dec 9 ndash The American Logistics Asso-
ciation held a luncheon and donated
items were auctioned off by legendary
Dallas Cowboy football player Randy
White Bill Doyle DFW ALA Chapter
president presented AREA President
Chuck Poffenbarger and Scholarship
Fund Manager Michelle Priester a
check for $7500 for the AREA Schol-
arship Fund
Bill Doyle Michelle Priester and
Chuck Poffenbarger
PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75138-0614
Michelle Priester and Randy White
PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75138-0614
Community ServicemdashFall 2016
We recognize AREA chapter members 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 Recipients were provided with a Certificate of Appreciation and a recognition letter signed by the
program director and president AREA
COMMUNITY AWARD RECIPIENTS
RON CLEMENT PRESIDENT
COLUMBIA RIVER CHAPTER
VANCOUVER WASHINGTON STATE
Ron makes arrangements for all meetings ie lunches updates etc send out updates from the National AREA
and keeps us up-to-date with all AAFES happenings He has an extremely positive attitude despite health issues
and is solely responsible for keeping all the members in our chapter together
BILL EDDINGS MEMBER
NORTH TEXAS CHAPTER
DALLASFORT WORTH TEXAS
Bill is responsible for his Neighborhood Night Out program He organizes the program and gets groups to come
in and speak including the police etc to address safety issues He also gets tables set up for volunteer organiza-
tions such as Meals on Wheels to recruit volunteers
AREA JUST FOR YOU
During a visit to Nellis Air Force Base Army amp Air Force Exchange Service DirectorCEO Tom Shull and David Nelson Chief Operating Officer paid trib-ute to Lt Col Thomas ldquoMosesrdquo Bouley brother of retired Western Region Senior Vice President Ed Bouley Lt Col Bouley 65th Aggression Squadron Commander gave the ultimate sacrifice for this nation during an F-15 crash on the Nevada Test and Training Range in July 2008 Bouley Hall home to the 65th AGRS is named in his honor
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 9
Tom Shull and David Nelson
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Pag e 10 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Lynda Tanaka Adrienne Hamada Frank Cedeno Pauline Ung Mary Ann Asato Pat Watson and Bill Allgire
Rose Kawata Alice Suma
and Margaret Hasegawa Brave game contestants Dot Irvine Ethel Miguel
Jan and Mel Santana Ruth Shiroma Cynthia Hoag Ardell Katsura Roy Miura and Marlene Tokuhisa
Our donation to the Hawaii Foodbank
The Aloha Chapter held its annual Christmas party on Sunday 4 Dec at its perennial location -- The Pearl Country Club The Chapter has been holding its holiday function here for the past 20 years So they are like family to us by now A Prime Rib buffet luncheon was arranged with Baked Mahi Mahi Korean style BBQ Chicken with all the attending salads and veggies A total of 57 members spouses and guestsmdashwith one very special guest this year FRANK CEDENOmdashenjoyed the buffet games door prizes Christmas spirit and camaraderie Frank worked at the old PACEX HQ in the early 70s at the Queen Emma building and helped in the transition to its newer location on 919 Ala Moana Blvd An election of Officers was held with BILL ALLGIRE being elected as President LAURI SANTOS Treasurer and PAULINE UNG Secretary Seventeen $$$ door prizes were given away with the two $50 cash prizes being won by LANI AKI and ELAINE TAKAHASI Grand Prize winners of $50 were MARY ANN ASATO FRANCES SAITO MILTON SHIMIZU and ROY MIURAmdash with the final $100 Grand Prize being won by ETHEL MIGUEL -- wining more with her AAFES family than her recent trip to Vegas Everyone left with renewed energy and filled with the Christmas Spirit
Aloha ChaptermdashBill Allgire
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 11
Alamo ChaptermdashBrenda Borland
The Alamo Chapter in San Antonio has many events throughout the year Different hosts sponsor the events Our Dinner in September was held at Caparellis Restaurant and was hosted by Marilyn and Javier Cerna
Len and Rhonda Freitas James and Norma
Thompson Doris Morris
Brenda Borland and Song Choe
Tony and Ella Trevino
Bilge Cordani and
Claire Guillemette
Judy and Lee Rux Marilyn and Javier Cerna Janice and Bill Dobbs
Mike Bresnok and
Shannon Soefje
Kim Mathews and
Dan Forsch
Ruth Lown Lois Lown
and Roy Hines
Ken Limtiaco Mike and
Betty Rohrer Paula Hall Virginia and
Bob Askew
Ann and Tim Brogan
Attending but not pictured
Kathy Jackson and Mark Porter
Dix-McGuire Chapter- Fran Stanley
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
The DIX- MCGUIRE RETIREE S ASSOCIATION held its fall luncheon on September 12 2016 at a favor ite location Cracker Barrel in Bur lington New J ersey There were 50 members in attendance Everyone enjoyed catching up with for -mer co-workers friends and new acquaintances There was plenty of good food camaraderie and door prizes to go around The AREA benefits briefing conducted in June 2016 was discussed and copies of pertinent information distributed to the author-ized members Many were amazed at additional benefits available to them through their Aetna insurance Jan Terry wife of Errol Lawrence provide the group with upcoming events including an Artists Reception and a water-color class at her Art Gallery Many members have taken classes provided by Jan and find them enjoyable Eloise Thomas invited the group to take advantage and join the Browns Mills senior citizen group for adventures to places including bus trips to Atlantic City Casi-nos Honorary member and long-time customer Therese Hall celebrated her 95th birthday with the group Asked what she attributes her youthful appearance and diligent restraint to aging she replied that she comes from a family with good genes She said to do what you like but in moderation Other birthday wishes were made to Joyce Carr Earl Scott Vince Pesini and Erna Jackson Also the group was informed that Toni Long Retired Manager had passed away in South Carolina after a lengthy illness Sympa-thy cards were sent to Tonirsquos daughters on behalf of the group Several members expressed how much our card program meant to them comments were made by Peggy Forcey Vince Pesini Bob Bryant and Therese Hall Door prizes were won by Patty Puryear Fran Stanley Carrine Simms Fannie Anderson Mr Carter and Barbara Robinson and server Brittany The 5050 was won by Barbara Puryear
Pag e 12 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Kay and Vince Pisini Yoshiko
Brown and Reiko Williams
Evelyn Sprague Marianne Overhiser Katie
Barrett Edna Rock and Velma Watkins
Barbara Puryear Priscilla Parker
Patti Puryear and Glenn Parker
Arlene Cornish Sandi Grady Nedra
Harris and Barbara Robinson Fannie Anderson Welton Chase Hank
Fleming and his Guest Our 95 year old Queen of the Day
Therese Hall with Fran Stanley
Beatrice Hargrove Carrine Simms Joyce Carr and Betty OBrien
Patti Rahilly Jones
and Marie Rahilly
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 13
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Dix-McGuire Chapter - Fran Stanley
The Ft Dix-McGuire Chapter members met to celebrate Christmas at OrsquoConnerrsquos ( formally known as Charleyrsquos Other Brother) in Mt Holly New Jersey Despite the rainy day we had over 50 members and guests in attendance who enjoyed the event Holiday music was playing in the background as participants enjoyed playing trivia games for numerous gifts as well as door prizes There was plenty of good food games and gifts to go around Participants were able to choose from London Broil Chicken Parmesan or Stuff shells as their main entreacutee Each meal came with a house salad two vegetables dinner rolls coffee tea and a holiday desert This year the members were able to sign Christmas cards that were sent to for-mer members who now live outside the state or were too ill to attend The 5050 winner Richard Schmelia generously donated $25 back to the group to help send out fruit baskets to those too ill to attend The camaraderie displayed among the group reminded us how awesome it was to work for an organization that was more than a busi-ness and more like a fami-ly May God continue to bless each of you
Earl Scott Robert Bryant and Sylvia Brown William Henriquez Reyes Errol Lawrence Jane Terri Lawrence Luis Lopez
Elaine Brown Therese Hall Monica Frederick and Edna Rock
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Golden Gate ChaptermdashErnest Kodama
Golden Gate AREA Chapter held its Christmas Luncheon on December 10 at the Spinnaker Restaurant in Sausalito CA Attending the luncheon were Mary Lou Geimer George Wills Dennis Gilman Arline Gilman Lou
Vitalie Arlene Hadfield Julia Lee Joan Turner Chick Kretz Gina Kretz Toni DeBardeleben Stanlee Garriot and Ernie Kodama
Pag e 14 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Northern California Chapter ndash Ken ldquoTomrdquo Keim
We began our fall season with a luncheon meeting at Mimirsquos of Elk Grove Members and guests attending were Renate
Atkinson and daughter Deborah Margaret Belcher Edit Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Dianne Hobbs
Celia Hudson Rosa LaBoeuf Tina Minjarez Kristin Taylor Jerri Thomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Stella and Michael
Winch The group discussed possible activities for the upcoming year such as a Sacramento train ride winery tour at Apple
Hill garage sale picnic BBQ in the ark and a casino visit Members were asked to give feedback on which of these most ap-
peal to Chapter members
Our October luncheon meeting at El Tapatio was attended by the following members and guests Margaret Belcher Rosie
Boyce Edie Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Arlene Ferry and daughter Debbie Dianne Hobbs Margie
Iwamoto Ken Keim Rosa LaBoeuf Richard Mason Gloria Masse Tina Minjarez Ellen Rivera Margie Scheatzle Kristin
Taylor Jerri Toomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Lee Woodward
October November and December are the busiest time of the year The annual fall bake and used book sale was held on Octo-
ber 29 at McClellan BX The annual holiday auction was held following the regular November 9 luncheon meeting at the IHOP on Sunrise Blvd and we held our gala Christmas luncheon on December 11 at Zinfandel Grill
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 15
Gulf Coast Chapter - Jan Comstock
Super fun and exciting AAFES Retiree Christmas luncheon 62 in attendance We had a blast We had to renew our
membership and pay our $500 dues for the year We had a great raffle and also brought in can goods for the food
banks in our area A great big thank you and job well done to Steve Friend and Regina Steve Mitchell and Susan
attended both doing so much better Missed three that could not attend We had so much fun with our signsmdashfound
out we have a lot of naughty ladies They all asked for the naughty sign A big plus for me was that the group
sang Happy Birthday to me The waitress surprised me with a slice of chocolate cake with a candle and ice cream We
also recognized the other December birthday Merry Christmas
Scott Maynard Billy Hullen-der and Brenda Hullender
Olive Bobo and Marcia Watts Harville
Isabelle Good Hender-shot and Gail Golden Escobedo
See many more photos on Jan Comstockrsquos Facebook page
Jan Comstock
North Texas ChaptermdashRichard Sheff and Linda Dean
The North Texas Chapter of AREA has been busy this past quarter attending events such as the music of Johnny Cash a FREE Membership Appreciation Luncheon and a Holiday Celebration amp Gift Ex-change Please follow us on our Facebook page at North Texas Chapter of AREA to see all of the pic-tures
ldquoRing of Firerdquo at the Addison Water Tower Theatre Oct 16 ndash NTC-AREA members attended a play that
included the music of Johnny Cash After the Johnny Cash music we enjoyed dinner at BJrsquos Restaurant and
Brewhouse
Linda Dean Jerry amp Carlon Cloud
and Sarah Rabb Marilyn amp Leon Levin Doug amp Gail Olney Lina amp Chuck Poffenbarger
Membership Appreciation FREE Luncheon at Rudyrsquos BBQ Nov 3 ndash Annually the North Texas Chapter of
AREA has a FREE appreciation luncheon for members This year 103 members enjoyed barbecue at Rudyrsquos
Barbecue amp Country Store
Even with 2 serving tables the lines were long There was plenty of food for everyone
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Continued on next page
Pag e 16 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Take coverhellip Richard Sheff has a knife to cut the cake
NTC-AREA Board Meeting at HQ Nov 11 - After a NTC-AREA board meeting at HQ some of the members ran into some of the active Exchange Executives Dave Nelson and Ana Middleton From left to right Roy Robertson Jr Debbie Kliment Byerly Tom Branning Dave Nelson Richard Sheff Ana Middle-ton Jack Leavitt and Dale Linebarger
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Annual Holiday Celebration amp Gift Exchange Dec 4 ndash To celebrate the holiday season NTC-AREA members
gathered for a late luncheon at the YO Ranch Steakhouse The food was good and we had a private room for social-
izing and fun with the gift exchange
56 members attended the party at the YO Ranch Steakhouse So many pretty packages
to choose from
NTC President
Richard Sheff and
Master of Ceremo-
nies always
makes the gift ex-
change so much
fun
Bobbye Towns wearing
her Christmas gift Do you
think wersquoll see it again
next year
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos
Pat Weaver writes ldquoIf the mem-
bers want to know why their
checks are delayed this is the rea-
son The little Christmas trees are
my lsquoRed Neckrsquo trees They have
gun shells on them for lightsrdquo I
made all the ceramic pieces such
as the Santas and manger scenes
(See more photos on page 23)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 17
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith
In the summer of 1973 the Exchange transferred me from the Colorado Area Ex-change Fort Carson CO where I was the Services Operations Manager to the Okina-wa Regional Exchange as Chief of Services I was a 13 year veteran of AAFES at that time starting when I graduated High School in 1960 with the George AFB Exchange Victorville CA My first job was a Petroleum Transfer Engineer a Pump Island At-tendant for the unlearned Okinawa was our first overseas assignment and it was the first time my wife and children would fly My four year old son at the time would look up in the sky at an airplane and ask his Mother lsquoCanrsquot Daddy drive the car to Okinawarsquo We could never find the lsquobridgersquo across the Pacific so fly it was
We stopped over in Hawaii for several days to straighten out some passport issues for my family then it was on to Okinawa We landed at the lsquotail endrsquo of a Typhoon with scores of airport employees meeting the aircraft with umbrellas ushering us to a bus to take to us to the terminal Much of the Naha Airport was open to the outside in 1973 which would have been a delight except it was raining very hard with high winds John Hanson was our sponsor and met us at
the exit to Customs and welcomed us to Okinawa He and Lydie took very good care of us and helped us to acclimate ourselves to Okinawa life
It took us a few weeks to get our quarters assigned to us and with lsquoaddressrsquo and direc-tions in hand we drove to see it According to the house numbers it was an empty lot overgrown with trees and weeds 20rsquo tall After several passes searching to make sure I was not overlooking the address I was getting ready to go back to the housing office when my daughter said lsquolook Daddy I can see a roofrsquo I stopped and walked through the undergrowth to a house that appeared to have been sitting empty for a while Later that evening I told John Hanson that we found the house but it will take a little bit of work to clear the growth to where we can live in the house With the help of a lsquoPapa-sanrsquo we were able to do so quickly and settled in for life on Okinawa
While in Hawaii my children begged me to go to the beach which I refused because I told them lsquowe are going to live on an island for three years you can swim when we get therersquo However the Okinawa of 1973 is not the Okinawa of today The only beach for swimming we could find was Okuma on the Northern part of the Island The other shore line was riddled with volcanic rock which required you to wear lsquocombat bootsrsquo to walk However we loved it
The Okinawa of today 40 plus years later is much dif-ferent Pat and I were offered the opportunity to come back for three months to lsquofill inrsquo for a Missionary Pas-tor in the Church we were members of while here in the 70rsquos who needed to return to the States for that pe-riod of time We were immediately reminded lsquowe live in a different worldrsquo today than that we experienced four decades ago with the added security at airports the
enhanced visa checks customs inspectiondeclaration and when we were met with the lsquoclosedrsquo Military Installations that were open in the 1970rsquos
But the thing that had not changed is the politeness of the Japanese people We flew into Tokyo Narita Airport and had to catch a bus for the 45 minute drive to Haneda Air-port where our flight departed to Okinawa The attendants were striking with their cus-tomary bow to all who boarded the bus and we were met with this same courtesy when the bus arrived at Haneda and again when we exited the plane at Naha Okinawa In the Restaurants the stores-large and small-we have been met with this ever present polite welcome
Our hour drive from the Airport to Church apartments on the evening of our arrival introduced us to a modern Express Way ex-tending the full length of the Island and a lsquospider likersquo network of roads leading to all parts of the Islands A number of the 1970 Military Installations have been returned to the Japanese Government and replaced with lsquohigh risersquo buildings
On what used to be the Awase Golf Course is now the Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom a multistory mall that would rival any mod-ern mall we might find in the States The Express Way frequently maneuvers through tunnels carved out of the limited moun-tains on Okinawa the coral shores have been replaced with sand and beaches are plentiful as are numerous scenic drives through the countryside
Pag e 18 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Don amp Patsy Smith
I have not been able to verify the figures but I recall using population figures in the 1970rsquos of 300000 today that population exceeds 1300000 Okinawa has become Mainland Japanrsquos Hawaii resort Island
During our time here the enhanced security has required us to lsquoget a passrsquo for Pat as she does not have a CAC which I have to enter the Military Installations One of the Church members sponsored her allowing us to visit many of the Exchange Facili-ties Today Futenma Kadena Hansen Torii Schwab Foster and Kinser are the major facilities remaining on the Island
I remember in the 70rsquos sharing with my Okinawan counter parts the need for the Exchange Facilities to lsquolook like homersquo for the Americans They of course were willing to help but my Automotive Tech Rep Arkaki-san asked me lsquowhat does home look likersquo We were trying to emulate the lsquoappearancersquo of our Stateside BasePost Exchanges but knowing they would not know what they looked like I told him we need to make them look like SEARS we did not have Wal-Mart in those days
He and the others nodded and we went about working on the lsquofacadesrsquo of the scattered Service Facilities we had all over the Island On one occasion I invited lsquomy guysrsquo to our home for a cook out with homemade ice cream and Arkaki-san asked how I thought our efforts were coming along with the lsquolookrsquo as I called it I told him I was very pleased and more important so were our customers He then told me lsquoI am happy because none of us know this SEARS you talk about what does it look likersquo I learned a lesson that day lsquodonrsquot always assume your counterpart in a different country understands the word picture you are trying to sharersquo
But back to today the Exchange folks here continue with that lsquolook of homersquo approach The added franchise facilities like Chilirsquos Subway Popeyes Baskin Robbins and of course one of my favorites one of the original Exchange self-franchises Anthonyrsquos Pizza dates back to lsquomy daysrsquo
Being in a lsquoMilitaryrsquo Church I have had to opportunity to talk with many Military Families from the Air Force Army Ma-rines and Navy My lsquoMarinersquo friends will ask lsquowhy did not you list the Marines first we always arrive firstrsquo But I chose to list them alphabetically to not offend either of the branches They each are among the lsquofinestrsquo of the young men and women who serve our country I am proud to be with them even if only for a short while All I have met are lsquothrilledrsquo with the Ex-change Facilities on Okinawa In fact one Marine told me lsquoit is a touch of homersquo
So to the Exchange Family in Okinawa lsquoGreat Jobrsquo
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith (Continued)
In the News From a December 15 e-mail from Jim Henry ldquo In case you missed it Darren Woods son of Dale and Karen Woods was named today to be Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mo-bil Darren replaces Rex Tillerson who is being nominated for Secretary of State Dale and Karen hope you dont mind me bragging on Darren a little You must be awfully proud of himrdquo
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 19
IN REMEMBRANCE
ERENEO COPADA 89 Aug 20 in San Francisco CA The Presidio of San Francisco Safety and Security Assistant retired in 1998
DENNIS JONES 81 died July 12 in Dallas TX The Frankfurt General Manager retired in 1986
BILLY GILES 77 died Aug 10 in Red Oak TX The HQ Computer Systems analyst retired in 1995
Antoinette (Toni) Long 79 died Sept 4 in Hampton SC The Los Angeles AFB General Manager retired in 1992
THOMAS SAVAGEAU 79 died Aug 23 in Ajijic Jalisco Mexico The HQ Associate retired in 1989
JOHN SHARP 59 died May 12 in Ovilla TX The Europe Egion Area manager retired in 2013
PAUL TAFF 90 died Aug 21 in Arlington TX The HQ Associate retired in 1983
ROBERT WILLINGHAM 84 died Sept 28 in Dallas TX The HQ Associate retired in 1993
DOUGLAS WOODHOUSE 64 died Oct 1 in Mobile AL The HQ Management Analyst retired in 2006
Pag e 20 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
WILLS ldquoFrom time to time retired associates of AAFES leave be-quests to the AREA in their will If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that pre-pares your formally written and executed will with the follow-ing sample clause If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause I give (blank dollarsproperty) to the Army Air Force Ex-change Service Retired Employees Association (AREA) PO Box 380614 Duncanville Texas 75138
Other Chapter reported deaths
George John Vomvoris legendary AAFES Food amp Services Executive (76) passed
away on November 18 2016 with his family by his side in Waxahachie Texas
Also we received news that Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur who is well known as
the first female super rate in AAFES passed away at age 88 in early November
(See eulogy on pages 21-23 by Aubrey Rembold)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
Pag e 4 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Summary - Whatrsquos New With Benefits in 2017
If you are currently enrolled in retiree healthcare through the Exchange these items were explained in the
Open Enrollment newsletter mailed to your home address in November 2016 The electronic version is availa-
ble here httpswwwnafhealthplanscomenrollmentexchange
Whatrsquos not changing in 2017 Deductibles and coinsurance amounts for medical and dental and medical and prescription copays There are four changes described below which will take effect on January 1 2017 1 Four premium tiers In the past there were two premium tiers mdash individual (aka single) and family For 2017 this will change to four
tiers which will bring the DoD NAF plan in line with industry standard If you donrsquot pay premiums now as a retir-
ee this change does not affect you If you are a retiree who pays premiums for healthcare during retirement
it is important to know which tier you will fall into as the tier determines your premiums The four tiers are as fol-
lows
Retiree only Retiree + child(ren) Retiree + spouse Retiree + family (retiree + spouse + children)
2 Out-of-pocket maximum increases This is the maximum amount you pay for your share of covered expenses in a calendar year For the first time since 2006 the out-of-pocket maximums will increase in 2017 as shown below
2016 2017 In-Network Out-of-Network In-Network Out-of-Network
Individual $ 3000 $ 6000 $ 4000 $ 8000 Family of 2 $ 6000 $ 12000 $ 8000 $ 16000 Family of 3+ $ 9000 $ 18000 $ 12000 $ 24000 3 The Maintenance Choicereg Program We are steering you very strongly toward getting these maintenance medications in a 90-day supply by using either
Aetna Rx Home Deliveryreg mail-order pharmacy or a CVS pharmacy near you Maintenance medicines are those
used on a regular basis to treat or manage conditions such as asthma diabetes high blood pressure or high cholester-
ol You will pay the full cost of the medicine if you choose to continue to receive only a 30-day supply
NOTE CONUS members will receive additional information in late 2016 early 2017 about this change
4 The Exclusions Drug List This list shows categories of drugs that are covered by your plan and indicates specific drugs within each category
that will no longer be covered The drugs will no longer be covered because there are similar products with the same
active ingredients that are available at a lesser cost To view the list visit httpswwwnafhealthplanscomhealth-
benefitspharmacy-program NOTE All members received a letter in December 2016 outlining the change as well
as the list of drugs that will no longer be covered
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 5
Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for Pensions
The 2017 COLA increase for pensions is 30 effective with the December 2016 pension pay-
ments Retirees with an annuity start date of Dec 1 2015 or before will receive the entire in-
crease Those who have an annuity start date after Dec 1 2015 will receive a prorated COLA as
shown here
Retirement Annuity
Start Date
Year of Months
Retired
COLA Increase
starting
December 2016
December 2015 12 030
January 2016 11 028
February 2016 10 025
March 2016 9 023
April 2016 8 020
May 2016 7 018
June 2016 6 015
July 2016 5 013
August 2016 4 010
September 2016 3 008
October 2016 2 005
November 2016 1 003
December 2016 0 000
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
One of the benefits for Exchange retirees is that they are able to shop the Exchange DD form 2674 retiree Exchange card documents shopping privileges While DD form 2674 is a defense department ID card it is not an ID card recognized to grant access to the installations Exchange retirees who need access to an installation need to obtain a ldquochiplessrdquo common access card (CAC) Your local HRO can provide instructions on how to contact the in-stallation to obtain the card if the installation provides this service For those retirees located near the AAFES HQs building you may obtain your card through the Headquarters HR Office
Common Access Card (CAC) Needed for Access to Military Installations
Retirees - Have you tried it Online access to pension information 24 hrsday 7 daysweek httpsaafesretirementmypenpaycom Once you have signed in you can
Change address direct deposit bank information tax withholding
View 18 months of statements and tax forms from current and prior year
Request stop payments and reissue outstanding checks
Need help with your Username or Password Call State Streetrsquos pension administration office at 1-877-247-2769 or 1-904-791-2246 (International)
Reduce your Medical Deductible in 2017 with Health Incentive Credits
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
For 2017 the maximum health incentive credit an individual can earn is $250 The family maximum is
$600 In 2017 covered retirees and their covered spouse should have already completed the Compass Health Assess-
ment to earn the Health Incentive Credits If you have not done so do so now
Health Incentive Credit features
Applied to the medical deductible andor coinsurance as claims are processed The credit cannot be applied to copay-
ments such as PCP Specialist Emergency Room Urgent Care copays Hospital confinement fees or pharmacy co-
pays
middot The credit will roll over every year until used up to 3 years
middot Credits are displayed on the Explanation of Benefits and in Aetna Navigator
Here are a few things you need to know
The Compass Health Assessment is a new and improved questionnaire that takes just 10 minutes to com-
plete Members answer questions about personal and family health history lifestyle habits recent screening results
and other health factors Since this is a brand new assessment members will need to complete it instead of just adding
updates as no previous answers will be carried over No other activities will earn credits until the assessment is com-
pleted To take the assessment log in to wwwaetnacom and click ldquoI want to Take a Health Assessmentrdquo on the
home page
These credits will be placed in an account and applied towards the first family memberrsquos claim where the deductible
andor coinsurance would be applied
Activity Health Incentive Credit Amount Calendar Year Maxi-
mum
Complete metabolic syndrome
screening before April 1 2017
$150 each $150 for employee only
and $300 for employee
and covered spouse Complete metabolic syndrome
screening between April 1 and
November 30 2017
$100 each
Disease Management (DM) goal ndash
complete 3 calls with a DM nurse
$100 each
Complete online journey (average
time 32 days)
$ 50 each up to four journeys $200 for employee only
or $400 for family
Dependent Children
Under Age 18
Have a preventive care exam $ 50 for each child pre- year
Pag e 6 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 7
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
In October we announced that Ken Weaver resigned as the AREA Representative on the Trustees
board and Terry Corley became the new AREA Representative Renee Figge who had recently retired
as AAFES CFO agreed to be the Alternate If you donrsquot already know Renee here is a short recap of
her career
Renee began her career with the Exchange in 1986 as a Management Trainee in San Antonio Her first
assignment was a field accountant in the New England Area From there she held numerous manage-
ment position in the Controller division where she was part of the team establishing the Integrated Gen-
eral Ledger Accounting System (IGLAS) in 1993 Next Renee worked in Treasury and was named the
Assistant Treasurer responsible for the daily operations of Treasury Management In 2006 she was
named the Exchange Treasurer As Treasurer she managed traditional corporate financial functions including treasury manage-
ment risk management benefit administration pension and investments private label consumer credit and collections She was
named Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in March 2014 the first female CFO of AAFES Renee was born
and raised in Westminster Mass and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Fitchburg State College
Mass She is also a Certified Public Accountant
Get Your Metabolic Syndrome Screening
DoD NAF Health Plan Members have you completed your metabolic syndrome screening The screening is an im-
portant step to learn about your risk for metabolic syndrome a group of health factors that can set the stage for serious
health conditions Itrsquos also a way for you and your covered spouse to each earn a $150 incentive credit
Herersquos How to schedule your FREE screening today
bull Go to MyQuestForHealthcom
bull Click ldquoRegister Nowrdquo in the ldquoNot Registered Yetrdquo box
bull Enter registration key DoD2017
bull Enter your member ID from your Aetna ID card (starts with ldquoWrdquo) Your spouse must add an ldquoSrdquo to the end of your
member ID number and enter your date of birth
bull Select ldquoGet Startedrdquo to go to the screening home page
bull Select ldquoSchedule Nowrdquo and follow the prompts to schedule your appointment
You can also call Quest at 1-866-697-8378 to make your screening appointment
Or if you choose you may have your own doctor complete the screening
You must still follow the instructions above to register with Quest This will allow you to download the Physician Re-
sults Report Form your doctor must complete and fax to Quest so you will be able to earn the incentive Note You
may be charged a fee if your screening is not part of a routine physical exam Aetna International members must use
this option as there are no Quest locations outside the US
Learn about additional ways to earn your health incentive credits
Employees with individual coverage can earn $250 in credits and employees with family coverage can earn $600
Visit wwwnafhealthplanscomgtWellness amp Resources or call Member Services at 1-800-367-6276 to learn more
REMEMBER The online health assessment is required as a first step to earn ANY credits To take the health
assessment log in at wwwaetnacom and click ldquoI want to Take a Health Assessmentrdquo on the left side of your home
page Once you have completed your biometric screening and have received your results make sure to record them in
your health assessment
Pag e 8 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
2017 AREA Scholarship Program
Since 1985 AREA has provided educational opportunities to ldquoAAFES Kidsrdquo through its schol-arship program This coming year AREA plans to award $29000 in scholarships to nine gradu-ating high school seniors Amounts are one $5000 and eight $3000 awards
2017 will mark the 28th anniversary of the AREA scholarship program the only program de-signed to directly benefit AAFES employeesrsquo and assigned militaryrsquos children To date AREA has provided $715795 in scholarship awards to 337 deserving students ndash many of whom may not have even started college without the AREA boost Now that is something we should all be proud of
So how does the program work Herersquos a short synopsis
The program is limited to graduating high school seniors One of the parents must have been an AAFES employee or assigned military on January 1 of the award year had at least twelve consecutive months of Exchange employment or in the case of military personnel Exchange assignment For a deceased parent the twelve-month employment requirement must have been met at the time of death Applications must be sent to the scholarship committee during the designated enrollment period ndash January 1 through March 31 of each year An application form is available on the AREA web site at httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-associationcommunity-programsscholarshipshtm The same site sets out the specific requirements for making application eg application period minimum SAT and ACT scores etc All application criteria are laid out on the web site The 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
ALA Luncheon and Charity Auction
Dec 9 ndash The American Logistics Asso-
ciation held a luncheon and donated
items were auctioned off by legendary
Dallas Cowboy football player Randy
White Bill Doyle DFW ALA Chapter
president presented AREA President
Chuck Poffenbarger and Scholarship
Fund Manager Michelle Priester a
check for $7500 for the AREA Schol-
arship Fund
Bill Doyle Michelle Priester and
Chuck Poffenbarger
PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75138-0614
Michelle Priester and Randy White
PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75138-0614
Community ServicemdashFall 2016
We recognize AREA chapter members 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 Recipients were provided with a Certificate of Appreciation and a recognition letter signed by the
program director and president AREA
COMMUNITY AWARD RECIPIENTS
RON CLEMENT PRESIDENT
COLUMBIA RIVER CHAPTER
VANCOUVER WASHINGTON STATE
Ron makes arrangements for all meetings ie lunches updates etc send out updates from the National AREA
and keeps us up-to-date with all AAFES happenings He has an extremely positive attitude despite health issues
and is solely responsible for keeping all the members in our chapter together
BILL EDDINGS MEMBER
NORTH TEXAS CHAPTER
DALLASFORT WORTH TEXAS
Bill is responsible for his Neighborhood Night Out program He organizes the program and gets groups to come
in and speak including the police etc to address safety issues He also gets tables set up for volunteer organiza-
tions such as Meals on Wheels to recruit volunteers
AREA JUST FOR YOU
During a visit to Nellis Air Force Base Army amp Air Force Exchange Service DirectorCEO Tom Shull and David Nelson Chief Operating Officer paid trib-ute to Lt Col Thomas ldquoMosesrdquo Bouley brother of retired Western Region Senior Vice President Ed Bouley Lt Col Bouley 65th Aggression Squadron Commander gave the ultimate sacrifice for this nation during an F-15 crash on the Nevada Test and Training Range in July 2008 Bouley Hall home to the 65th AGRS is named in his honor
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 9
Tom Shull and David Nelson
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Pag e 10 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Lynda Tanaka Adrienne Hamada Frank Cedeno Pauline Ung Mary Ann Asato Pat Watson and Bill Allgire
Rose Kawata Alice Suma
and Margaret Hasegawa Brave game contestants Dot Irvine Ethel Miguel
Jan and Mel Santana Ruth Shiroma Cynthia Hoag Ardell Katsura Roy Miura and Marlene Tokuhisa
Our donation to the Hawaii Foodbank
The Aloha Chapter held its annual Christmas party on Sunday 4 Dec at its perennial location -- The Pearl Country Club The Chapter has been holding its holiday function here for the past 20 years So they are like family to us by now A Prime Rib buffet luncheon was arranged with Baked Mahi Mahi Korean style BBQ Chicken with all the attending salads and veggies A total of 57 members spouses and guestsmdashwith one very special guest this year FRANK CEDENOmdashenjoyed the buffet games door prizes Christmas spirit and camaraderie Frank worked at the old PACEX HQ in the early 70s at the Queen Emma building and helped in the transition to its newer location on 919 Ala Moana Blvd An election of Officers was held with BILL ALLGIRE being elected as President LAURI SANTOS Treasurer and PAULINE UNG Secretary Seventeen $$$ door prizes were given away with the two $50 cash prizes being won by LANI AKI and ELAINE TAKAHASI Grand Prize winners of $50 were MARY ANN ASATO FRANCES SAITO MILTON SHIMIZU and ROY MIURAmdash with the final $100 Grand Prize being won by ETHEL MIGUEL -- wining more with her AAFES family than her recent trip to Vegas Everyone left with renewed energy and filled with the Christmas Spirit
Aloha ChaptermdashBill Allgire
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 11
Alamo ChaptermdashBrenda Borland
The Alamo Chapter in San Antonio has many events throughout the year Different hosts sponsor the events Our Dinner in September was held at Caparellis Restaurant and was hosted by Marilyn and Javier Cerna
Len and Rhonda Freitas James and Norma
Thompson Doris Morris
Brenda Borland and Song Choe
Tony and Ella Trevino
Bilge Cordani and
Claire Guillemette
Judy and Lee Rux Marilyn and Javier Cerna Janice and Bill Dobbs
Mike Bresnok and
Shannon Soefje
Kim Mathews and
Dan Forsch
Ruth Lown Lois Lown
and Roy Hines
Ken Limtiaco Mike and
Betty Rohrer Paula Hall Virginia and
Bob Askew
Ann and Tim Brogan
Attending but not pictured
Kathy Jackson and Mark Porter
Dix-McGuire Chapter- Fran Stanley
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
The DIX- MCGUIRE RETIREE S ASSOCIATION held its fall luncheon on September 12 2016 at a favor ite location Cracker Barrel in Bur lington New J ersey There were 50 members in attendance Everyone enjoyed catching up with for -mer co-workers friends and new acquaintances There was plenty of good food camaraderie and door prizes to go around The AREA benefits briefing conducted in June 2016 was discussed and copies of pertinent information distributed to the author-ized members Many were amazed at additional benefits available to them through their Aetna insurance Jan Terry wife of Errol Lawrence provide the group with upcoming events including an Artists Reception and a water-color class at her Art Gallery Many members have taken classes provided by Jan and find them enjoyable Eloise Thomas invited the group to take advantage and join the Browns Mills senior citizen group for adventures to places including bus trips to Atlantic City Casi-nos Honorary member and long-time customer Therese Hall celebrated her 95th birthday with the group Asked what she attributes her youthful appearance and diligent restraint to aging she replied that she comes from a family with good genes She said to do what you like but in moderation Other birthday wishes were made to Joyce Carr Earl Scott Vince Pesini and Erna Jackson Also the group was informed that Toni Long Retired Manager had passed away in South Carolina after a lengthy illness Sympa-thy cards were sent to Tonirsquos daughters on behalf of the group Several members expressed how much our card program meant to them comments were made by Peggy Forcey Vince Pesini Bob Bryant and Therese Hall Door prizes were won by Patty Puryear Fran Stanley Carrine Simms Fannie Anderson Mr Carter and Barbara Robinson and server Brittany The 5050 was won by Barbara Puryear
Pag e 12 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Kay and Vince Pisini Yoshiko
Brown and Reiko Williams
Evelyn Sprague Marianne Overhiser Katie
Barrett Edna Rock and Velma Watkins
Barbara Puryear Priscilla Parker
Patti Puryear and Glenn Parker
Arlene Cornish Sandi Grady Nedra
Harris and Barbara Robinson Fannie Anderson Welton Chase Hank
Fleming and his Guest Our 95 year old Queen of the Day
Therese Hall with Fran Stanley
Beatrice Hargrove Carrine Simms Joyce Carr and Betty OBrien
Patti Rahilly Jones
and Marie Rahilly
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 13
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Dix-McGuire Chapter - Fran Stanley
The Ft Dix-McGuire Chapter members met to celebrate Christmas at OrsquoConnerrsquos ( formally known as Charleyrsquos Other Brother) in Mt Holly New Jersey Despite the rainy day we had over 50 members and guests in attendance who enjoyed the event Holiday music was playing in the background as participants enjoyed playing trivia games for numerous gifts as well as door prizes There was plenty of good food games and gifts to go around Participants were able to choose from London Broil Chicken Parmesan or Stuff shells as their main entreacutee Each meal came with a house salad two vegetables dinner rolls coffee tea and a holiday desert This year the members were able to sign Christmas cards that were sent to for-mer members who now live outside the state or were too ill to attend The 5050 winner Richard Schmelia generously donated $25 back to the group to help send out fruit baskets to those too ill to attend The camaraderie displayed among the group reminded us how awesome it was to work for an organization that was more than a busi-ness and more like a fami-ly May God continue to bless each of you
Earl Scott Robert Bryant and Sylvia Brown William Henriquez Reyes Errol Lawrence Jane Terri Lawrence Luis Lopez
Elaine Brown Therese Hall Monica Frederick and Edna Rock
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Golden Gate ChaptermdashErnest Kodama
Golden Gate AREA Chapter held its Christmas Luncheon on December 10 at the Spinnaker Restaurant in Sausalito CA Attending the luncheon were Mary Lou Geimer George Wills Dennis Gilman Arline Gilman Lou
Vitalie Arlene Hadfield Julia Lee Joan Turner Chick Kretz Gina Kretz Toni DeBardeleben Stanlee Garriot and Ernie Kodama
Pag e 14 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Northern California Chapter ndash Ken ldquoTomrdquo Keim
We began our fall season with a luncheon meeting at Mimirsquos of Elk Grove Members and guests attending were Renate
Atkinson and daughter Deborah Margaret Belcher Edit Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Dianne Hobbs
Celia Hudson Rosa LaBoeuf Tina Minjarez Kristin Taylor Jerri Thomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Stella and Michael
Winch The group discussed possible activities for the upcoming year such as a Sacramento train ride winery tour at Apple
Hill garage sale picnic BBQ in the ark and a casino visit Members were asked to give feedback on which of these most ap-
peal to Chapter members
Our October luncheon meeting at El Tapatio was attended by the following members and guests Margaret Belcher Rosie
Boyce Edie Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Arlene Ferry and daughter Debbie Dianne Hobbs Margie
Iwamoto Ken Keim Rosa LaBoeuf Richard Mason Gloria Masse Tina Minjarez Ellen Rivera Margie Scheatzle Kristin
Taylor Jerri Toomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Lee Woodward
October November and December are the busiest time of the year The annual fall bake and used book sale was held on Octo-
ber 29 at McClellan BX The annual holiday auction was held following the regular November 9 luncheon meeting at the IHOP on Sunrise Blvd and we held our gala Christmas luncheon on December 11 at Zinfandel Grill
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 15
Gulf Coast Chapter - Jan Comstock
Super fun and exciting AAFES Retiree Christmas luncheon 62 in attendance We had a blast We had to renew our
membership and pay our $500 dues for the year We had a great raffle and also brought in can goods for the food
banks in our area A great big thank you and job well done to Steve Friend and Regina Steve Mitchell and Susan
attended both doing so much better Missed three that could not attend We had so much fun with our signsmdashfound
out we have a lot of naughty ladies They all asked for the naughty sign A big plus for me was that the group
sang Happy Birthday to me The waitress surprised me with a slice of chocolate cake with a candle and ice cream We
also recognized the other December birthday Merry Christmas
Scott Maynard Billy Hullen-der and Brenda Hullender
Olive Bobo and Marcia Watts Harville
Isabelle Good Hender-shot and Gail Golden Escobedo
See many more photos on Jan Comstockrsquos Facebook page
Jan Comstock
North Texas ChaptermdashRichard Sheff and Linda Dean
The North Texas Chapter of AREA has been busy this past quarter attending events such as the music of Johnny Cash a FREE Membership Appreciation Luncheon and a Holiday Celebration amp Gift Ex-change Please follow us on our Facebook page at North Texas Chapter of AREA to see all of the pic-tures
ldquoRing of Firerdquo at the Addison Water Tower Theatre Oct 16 ndash NTC-AREA members attended a play that
included the music of Johnny Cash After the Johnny Cash music we enjoyed dinner at BJrsquos Restaurant and
Brewhouse
Linda Dean Jerry amp Carlon Cloud
and Sarah Rabb Marilyn amp Leon Levin Doug amp Gail Olney Lina amp Chuck Poffenbarger
Membership Appreciation FREE Luncheon at Rudyrsquos BBQ Nov 3 ndash Annually the North Texas Chapter of
AREA has a FREE appreciation luncheon for members This year 103 members enjoyed barbecue at Rudyrsquos
Barbecue amp Country Store
Even with 2 serving tables the lines were long There was plenty of food for everyone
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Continued on next page
Pag e 16 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Take coverhellip Richard Sheff has a knife to cut the cake
NTC-AREA Board Meeting at HQ Nov 11 - After a NTC-AREA board meeting at HQ some of the members ran into some of the active Exchange Executives Dave Nelson and Ana Middleton From left to right Roy Robertson Jr Debbie Kliment Byerly Tom Branning Dave Nelson Richard Sheff Ana Middle-ton Jack Leavitt and Dale Linebarger
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Annual Holiday Celebration amp Gift Exchange Dec 4 ndash To celebrate the holiday season NTC-AREA members
gathered for a late luncheon at the YO Ranch Steakhouse The food was good and we had a private room for social-
izing and fun with the gift exchange
56 members attended the party at the YO Ranch Steakhouse So many pretty packages
to choose from
NTC President
Richard Sheff and
Master of Ceremo-
nies always
makes the gift ex-
change so much
fun
Bobbye Towns wearing
her Christmas gift Do you
think wersquoll see it again
next year
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos
Pat Weaver writes ldquoIf the mem-
bers want to know why their
checks are delayed this is the rea-
son The little Christmas trees are
my lsquoRed Neckrsquo trees They have
gun shells on them for lightsrdquo I
made all the ceramic pieces such
as the Santas and manger scenes
(See more photos on page 23)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 17
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith
In the summer of 1973 the Exchange transferred me from the Colorado Area Ex-change Fort Carson CO where I was the Services Operations Manager to the Okina-wa Regional Exchange as Chief of Services I was a 13 year veteran of AAFES at that time starting when I graduated High School in 1960 with the George AFB Exchange Victorville CA My first job was a Petroleum Transfer Engineer a Pump Island At-tendant for the unlearned Okinawa was our first overseas assignment and it was the first time my wife and children would fly My four year old son at the time would look up in the sky at an airplane and ask his Mother lsquoCanrsquot Daddy drive the car to Okinawarsquo We could never find the lsquobridgersquo across the Pacific so fly it was
We stopped over in Hawaii for several days to straighten out some passport issues for my family then it was on to Okinawa We landed at the lsquotail endrsquo of a Typhoon with scores of airport employees meeting the aircraft with umbrellas ushering us to a bus to take to us to the terminal Much of the Naha Airport was open to the outside in 1973 which would have been a delight except it was raining very hard with high winds John Hanson was our sponsor and met us at
the exit to Customs and welcomed us to Okinawa He and Lydie took very good care of us and helped us to acclimate ourselves to Okinawa life
It took us a few weeks to get our quarters assigned to us and with lsquoaddressrsquo and direc-tions in hand we drove to see it According to the house numbers it was an empty lot overgrown with trees and weeds 20rsquo tall After several passes searching to make sure I was not overlooking the address I was getting ready to go back to the housing office when my daughter said lsquolook Daddy I can see a roofrsquo I stopped and walked through the undergrowth to a house that appeared to have been sitting empty for a while Later that evening I told John Hanson that we found the house but it will take a little bit of work to clear the growth to where we can live in the house With the help of a lsquoPapa-sanrsquo we were able to do so quickly and settled in for life on Okinawa
While in Hawaii my children begged me to go to the beach which I refused because I told them lsquowe are going to live on an island for three years you can swim when we get therersquo However the Okinawa of 1973 is not the Okinawa of today The only beach for swimming we could find was Okuma on the Northern part of the Island The other shore line was riddled with volcanic rock which required you to wear lsquocombat bootsrsquo to walk However we loved it
The Okinawa of today 40 plus years later is much dif-ferent Pat and I were offered the opportunity to come back for three months to lsquofill inrsquo for a Missionary Pas-tor in the Church we were members of while here in the 70rsquos who needed to return to the States for that pe-riod of time We were immediately reminded lsquowe live in a different worldrsquo today than that we experienced four decades ago with the added security at airports the
enhanced visa checks customs inspectiondeclaration and when we were met with the lsquoclosedrsquo Military Installations that were open in the 1970rsquos
But the thing that had not changed is the politeness of the Japanese people We flew into Tokyo Narita Airport and had to catch a bus for the 45 minute drive to Haneda Air-port where our flight departed to Okinawa The attendants were striking with their cus-tomary bow to all who boarded the bus and we were met with this same courtesy when the bus arrived at Haneda and again when we exited the plane at Naha Okinawa In the Restaurants the stores-large and small-we have been met with this ever present polite welcome
Our hour drive from the Airport to Church apartments on the evening of our arrival introduced us to a modern Express Way ex-tending the full length of the Island and a lsquospider likersquo network of roads leading to all parts of the Islands A number of the 1970 Military Installations have been returned to the Japanese Government and replaced with lsquohigh risersquo buildings
On what used to be the Awase Golf Course is now the Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom a multistory mall that would rival any mod-ern mall we might find in the States The Express Way frequently maneuvers through tunnels carved out of the limited moun-tains on Okinawa the coral shores have been replaced with sand and beaches are plentiful as are numerous scenic drives through the countryside
Pag e 18 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Don amp Patsy Smith
I have not been able to verify the figures but I recall using population figures in the 1970rsquos of 300000 today that population exceeds 1300000 Okinawa has become Mainland Japanrsquos Hawaii resort Island
During our time here the enhanced security has required us to lsquoget a passrsquo for Pat as she does not have a CAC which I have to enter the Military Installations One of the Church members sponsored her allowing us to visit many of the Exchange Facili-ties Today Futenma Kadena Hansen Torii Schwab Foster and Kinser are the major facilities remaining on the Island
I remember in the 70rsquos sharing with my Okinawan counter parts the need for the Exchange Facilities to lsquolook like homersquo for the Americans They of course were willing to help but my Automotive Tech Rep Arkaki-san asked me lsquowhat does home look likersquo We were trying to emulate the lsquoappearancersquo of our Stateside BasePost Exchanges but knowing they would not know what they looked like I told him we need to make them look like SEARS we did not have Wal-Mart in those days
He and the others nodded and we went about working on the lsquofacadesrsquo of the scattered Service Facilities we had all over the Island On one occasion I invited lsquomy guysrsquo to our home for a cook out with homemade ice cream and Arkaki-san asked how I thought our efforts were coming along with the lsquolookrsquo as I called it I told him I was very pleased and more important so were our customers He then told me lsquoI am happy because none of us know this SEARS you talk about what does it look likersquo I learned a lesson that day lsquodonrsquot always assume your counterpart in a different country understands the word picture you are trying to sharersquo
But back to today the Exchange folks here continue with that lsquolook of homersquo approach The added franchise facilities like Chilirsquos Subway Popeyes Baskin Robbins and of course one of my favorites one of the original Exchange self-franchises Anthonyrsquos Pizza dates back to lsquomy daysrsquo
Being in a lsquoMilitaryrsquo Church I have had to opportunity to talk with many Military Families from the Air Force Army Ma-rines and Navy My lsquoMarinersquo friends will ask lsquowhy did not you list the Marines first we always arrive firstrsquo But I chose to list them alphabetically to not offend either of the branches They each are among the lsquofinestrsquo of the young men and women who serve our country I am proud to be with them even if only for a short while All I have met are lsquothrilledrsquo with the Ex-change Facilities on Okinawa In fact one Marine told me lsquoit is a touch of homersquo
So to the Exchange Family in Okinawa lsquoGreat Jobrsquo
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith (Continued)
In the News From a December 15 e-mail from Jim Henry ldquo In case you missed it Darren Woods son of Dale and Karen Woods was named today to be Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mo-bil Darren replaces Rex Tillerson who is being nominated for Secretary of State Dale and Karen hope you dont mind me bragging on Darren a little You must be awfully proud of himrdquo
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 19
IN REMEMBRANCE
ERENEO COPADA 89 Aug 20 in San Francisco CA The Presidio of San Francisco Safety and Security Assistant retired in 1998
DENNIS JONES 81 died July 12 in Dallas TX The Frankfurt General Manager retired in 1986
BILLY GILES 77 died Aug 10 in Red Oak TX The HQ Computer Systems analyst retired in 1995
Antoinette (Toni) Long 79 died Sept 4 in Hampton SC The Los Angeles AFB General Manager retired in 1992
THOMAS SAVAGEAU 79 died Aug 23 in Ajijic Jalisco Mexico The HQ Associate retired in 1989
JOHN SHARP 59 died May 12 in Ovilla TX The Europe Egion Area manager retired in 2013
PAUL TAFF 90 died Aug 21 in Arlington TX The HQ Associate retired in 1983
ROBERT WILLINGHAM 84 died Sept 28 in Dallas TX The HQ Associate retired in 1993
DOUGLAS WOODHOUSE 64 died Oct 1 in Mobile AL The HQ Management Analyst retired in 2006
Pag e 20 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
WILLS ldquoFrom time to time retired associates of AAFES leave be-quests to the AREA in their will If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that pre-pares your formally written and executed will with the follow-ing sample clause If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause I give (blank dollarsproperty) to the Army Air Force Ex-change Service Retired Employees Association (AREA) PO Box 380614 Duncanville Texas 75138
Other Chapter reported deaths
George John Vomvoris legendary AAFES Food amp Services Executive (76) passed
away on November 18 2016 with his family by his side in Waxahachie Texas
Also we received news that Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur who is well known as
the first female super rate in AAFES passed away at age 88 in early November
(See eulogy on pages 21-23 by Aubrey Rembold)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 5
Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for Pensions
The 2017 COLA increase for pensions is 30 effective with the December 2016 pension pay-
ments Retirees with an annuity start date of Dec 1 2015 or before will receive the entire in-
crease Those who have an annuity start date after Dec 1 2015 will receive a prorated COLA as
shown here
Retirement Annuity
Start Date
Year of Months
Retired
COLA Increase
starting
December 2016
December 2015 12 030
January 2016 11 028
February 2016 10 025
March 2016 9 023
April 2016 8 020
May 2016 7 018
June 2016 6 015
July 2016 5 013
August 2016 4 010
September 2016 3 008
October 2016 2 005
November 2016 1 003
December 2016 0 000
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
One of the benefits for Exchange retirees is that they are able to shop the Exchange DD form 2674 retiree Exchange card documents shopping privileges While DD form 2674 is a defense department ID card it is not an ID card recognized to grant access to the installations Exchange retirees who need access to an installation need to obtain a ldquochiplessrdquo common access card (CAC) Your local HRO can provide instructions on how to contact the in-stallation to obtain the card if the installation provides this service For those retirees located near the AAFES HQs building you may obtain your card through the Headquarters HR Office
Common Access Card (CAC) Needed for Access to Military Installations
Retirees - Have you tried it Online access to pension information 24 hrsday 7 daysweek httpsaafesretirementmypenpaycom Once you have signed in you can
Change address direct deposit bank information tax withholding
View 18 months of statements and tax forms from current and prior year
Request stop payments and reissue outstanding checks
Need help with your Username or Password Call State Streetrsquos pension administration office at 1-877-247-2769 or 1-904-791-2246 (International)
Reduce your Medical Deductible in 2017 with Health Incentive Credits
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
For 2017 the maximum health incentive credit an individual can earn is $250 The family maximum is
$600 In 2017 covered retirees and their covered spouse should have already completed the Compass Health Assess-
ment to earn the Health Incentive Credits If you have not done so do so now
Health Incentive Credit features
Applied to the medical deductible andor coinsurance as claims are processed The credit cannot be applied to copay-
ments such as PCP Specialist Emergency Room Urgent Care copays Hospital confinement fees or pharmacy co-
pays
middot The credit will roll over every year until used up to 3 years
middot Credits are displayed on the Explanation of Benefits and in Aetna Navigator
Here are a few things you need to know
The Compass Health Assessment is a new and improved questionnaire that takes just 10 minutes to com-
plete Members answer questions about personal and family health history lifestyle habits recent screening results
and other health factors Since this is a brand new assessment members will need to complete it instead of just adding
updates as no previous answers will be carried over No other activities will earn credits until the assessment is com-
pleted To take the assessment log in to wwwaetnacom and click ldquoI want to Take a Health Assessmentrdquo on the
home page
These credits will be placed in an account and applied towards the first family memberrsquos claim where the deductible
andor coinsurance would be applied
Activity Health Incentive Credit Amount Calendar Year Maxi-
mum
Complete metabolic syndrome
screening before April 1 2017
$150 each $150 for employee only
and $300 for employee
and covered spouse Complete metabolic syndrome
screening between April 1 and
November 30 2017
$100 each
Disease Management (DM) goal ndash
complete 3 calls with a DM nurse
$100 each
Complete online journey (average
time 32 days)
$ 50 each up to four journeys $200 for employee only
or $400 for family
Dependent Children
Under Age 18
Have a preventive care exam $ 50 for each child pre- year
Pag e 6 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 7
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
In October we announced that Ken Weaver resigned as the AREA Representative on the Trustees
board and Terry Corley became the new AREA Representative Renee Figge who had recently retired
as AAFES CFO agreed to be the Alternate If you donrsquot already know Renee here is a short recap of
her career
Renee began her career with the Exchange in 1986 as a Management Trainee in San Antonio Her first
assignment was a field accountant in the New England Area From there she held numerous manage-
ment position in the Controller division where she was part of the team establishing the Integrated Gen-
eral Ledger Accounting System (IGLAS) in 1993 Next Renee worked in Treasury and was named the
Assistant Treasurer responsible for the daily operations of Treasury Management In 2006 she was
named the Exchange Treasurer As Treasurer she managed traditional corporate financial functions including treasury manage-
ment risk management benefit administration pension and investments private label consumer credit and collections She was
named Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in March 2014 the first female CFO of AAFES Renee was born
and raised in Westminster Mass and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Fitchburg State College
Mass She is also a Certified Public Accountant
Get Your Metabolic Syndrome Screening
DoD NAF Health Plan Members have you completed your metabolic syndrome screening The screening is an im-
portant step to learn about your risk for metabolic syndrome a group of health factors that can set the stage for serious
health conditions Itrsquos also a way for you and your covered spouse to each earn a $150 incentive credit
Herersquos How to schedule your FREE screening today
bull Go to MyQuestForHealthcom
bull Click ldquoRegister Nowrdquo in the ldquoNot Registered Yetrdquo box
bull Enter registration key DoD2017
bull Enter your member ID from your Aetna ID card (starts with ldquoWrdquo) Your spouse must add an ldquoSrdquo to the end of your
member ID number and enter your date of birth
bull Select ldquoGet Startedrdquo to go to the screening home page
bull Select ldquoSchedule Nowrdquo and follow the prompts to schedule your appointment
You can also call Quest at 1-866-697-8378 to make your screening appointment
Or if you choose you may have your own doctor complete the screening
You must still follow the instructions above to register with Quest This will allow you to download the Physician Re-
sults Report Form your doctor must complete and fax to Quest so you will be able to earn the incentive Note You
may be charged a fee if your screening is not part of a routine physical exam Aetna International members must use
this option as there are no Quest locations outside the US
Learn about additional ways to earn your health incentive credits
Employees with individual coverage can earn $250 in credits and employees with family coverage can earn $600
Visit wwwnafhealthplanscomgtWellness amp Resources or call Member Services at 1-800-367-6276 to learn more
REMEMBER The online health assessment is required as a first step to earn ANY credits To take the health
assessment log in at wwwaetnacom and click ldquoI want to Take a Health Assessmentrdquo on the left side of your home
page Once you have completed your biometric screening and have received your results make sure to record them in
your health assessment
Pag e 8 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
2017 AREA Scholarship Program
Since 1985 AREA has provided educational opportunities to ldquoAAFES Kidsrdquo through its schol-arship program This coming year AREA plans to award $29000 in scholarships to nine gradu-ating high school seniors Amounts are one $5000 and eight $3000 awards
2017 will mark the 28th anniversary of the AREA scholarship program the only program de-signed to directly benefit AAFES employeesrsquo and assigned militaryrsquos children To date AREA has provided $715795 in scholarship awards to 337 deserving students ndash many of whom may not have even started college without the AREA boost Now that is something we should all be proud of
So how does the program work Herersquos a short synopsis
The program is limited to graduating high school seniors One of the parents must have been an AAFES employee or assigned military on January 1 of the award year had at least twelve consecutive months of Exchange employment or in the case of military personnel Exchange assignment For a deceased parent the twelve-month employment requirement must have been met at the time of death Applications must be sent to the scholarship committee during the designated enrollment period ndash January 1 through March 31 of each year An application form is available on the AREA web site at httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-associationcommunity-programsscholarshipshtm The same site sets out the specific requirements for making application eg application period minimum SAT and ACT scores etc All application criteria are laid out on the web site The 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
ALA Luncheon and Charity Auction
Dec 9 ndash The American Logistics Asso-
ciation held a luncheon and donated
items were auctioned off by legendary
Dallas Cowboy football player Randy
White Bill Doyle DFW ALA Chapter
president presented AREA President
Chuck Poffenbarger and Scholarship
Fund Manager Michelle Priester a
check for $7500 for the AREA Schol-
arship Fund
Bill Doyle Michelle Priester and
Chuck Poffenbarger
PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75138-0614
Michelle Priester and Randy White
PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75138-0614
Community ServicemdashFall 2016
We recognize AREA chapter members 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 Recipients were provided with a Certificate of Appreciation and a recognition letter signed by the
program director and president AREA
COMMUNITY AWARD RECIPIENTS
RON CLEMENT PRESIDENT
COLUMBIA RIVER CHAPTER
VANCOUVER WASHINGTON STATE
Ron makes arrangements for all meetings ie lunches updates etc send out updates from the National AREA
and keeps us up-to-date with all AAFES happenings He has an extremely positive attitude despite health issues
and is solely responsible for keeping all the members in our chapter together
BILL EDDINGS MEMBER
NORTH TEXAS CHAPTER
DALLASFORT WORTH TEXAS
Bill is responsible for his Neighborhood Night Out program He organizes the program and gets groups to come
in and speak including the police etc to address safety issues He also gets tables set up for volunteer organiza-
tions such as Meals on Wheels to recruit volunteers
AREA JUST FOR YOU
During a visit to Nellis Air Force Base Army amp Air Force Exchange Service DirectorCEO Tom Shull and David Nelson Chief Operating Officer paid trib-ute to Lt Col Thomas ldquoMosesrdquo Bouley brother of retired Western Region Senior Vice President Ed Bouley Lt Col Bouley 65th Aggression Squadron Commander gave the ultimate sacrifice for this nation during an F-15 crash on the Nevada Test and Training Range in July 2008 Bouley Hall home to the 65th AGRS is named in his honor
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 9
Tom Shull and David Nelson
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Pag e 10 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Lynda Tanaka Adrienne Hamada Frank Cedeno Pauline Ung Mary Ann Asato Pat Watson and Bill Allgire
Rose Kawata Alice Suma
and Margaret Hasegawa Brave game contestants Dot Irvine Ethel Miguel
Jan and Mel Santana Ruth Shiroma Cynthia Hoag Ardell Katsura Roy Miura and Marlene Tokuhisa
Our donation to the Hawaii Foodbank
The Aloha Chapter held its annual Christmas party on Sunday 4 Dec at its perennial location -- The Pearl Country Club The Chapter has been holding its holiday function here for the past 20 years So they are like family to us by now A Prime Rib buffet luncheon was arranged with Baked Mahi Mahi Korean style BBQ Chicken with all the attending salads and veggies A total of 57 members spouses and guestsmdashwith one very special guest this year FRANK CEDENOmdashenjoyed the buffet games door prizes Christmas spirit and camaraderie Frank worked at the old PACEX HQ in the early 70s at the Queen Emma building and helped in the transition to its newer location on 919 Ala Moana Blvd An election of Officers was held with BILL ALLGIRE being elected as President LAURI SANTOS Treasurer and PAULINE UNG Secretary Seventeen $$$ door prizes were given away with the two $50 cash prizes being won by LANI AKI and ELAINE TAKAHASI Grand Prize winners of $50 were MARY ANN ASATO FRANCES SAITO MILTON SHIMIZU and ROY MIURAmdash with the final $100 Grand Prize being won by ETHEL MIGUEL -- wining more with her AAFES family than her recent trip to Vegas Everyone left with renewed energy and filled with the Christmas Spirit
Aloha ChaptermdashBill Allgire
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 11
Alamo ChaptermdashBrenda Borland
The Alamo Chapter in San Antonio has many events throughout the year Different hosts sponsor the events Our Dinner in September was held at Caparellis Restaurant and was hosted by Marilyn and Javier Cerna
Len and Rhonda Freitas James and Norma
Thompson Doris Morris
Brenda Borland and Song Choe
Tony and Ella Trevino
Bilge Cordani and
Claire Guillemette
Judy and Lee Rux Marilyn and Javier Cerna Janice and Bill Dobbs
Mike Bresnok and
Shannon Soefje
Kim Mathews and
Dan Forsch
Ruth Lown Lois Lown
and Roy Hines
Ken Limtiaco Mike and
Betty Rohrer Paula Hall Virginia and
Bob Askew
Ann and Tim Brogan
Attending but not pictured
Kathy Jackson and Mark Porter
Dix-McGuire Chapter- Fran Stanley
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
The DIX- MCGUIRE RETIREE S ASSOCIATION held its fall luncheon on September 12 2016 at a favor ite location Cracker Barrel in Bur lington New J ersey There were 50 members in attendance Everyone enjoyed catching up with for -mer co-workers friends and new acquaintances There was plenty of good food camaraderie and door prizes to go around The AREA benefits briefing conducted in June 2016 was discussed and copies of pertinent information distributed to the author-ized members Many were amazed at additional benefits available to them through their Aetna insurance Jan Terry wife of Errol Lawrence provide the group with upcoming events including an Artists Reception and a water-color class at her Art Gallery Many members have taken classes provided by Jan and find them enjoyable Eloise Thomas invited the group to take advantage and join the Browns Mills senior citizen group for adventures to places including bus trips to Atlantic City Casi-nos Honorary member and long-time customer Therese Hall celebrated her 95th birthday with the group Asked what she attributes her youthful appearance and diligent restraint to aging she replied that she comes from a family with good genes She said to do what you like but in moderation Other birthday wishes were made to Joyce Carr Earl Scott Vince Pesini and Erna Jackson Also the group was informed that Toni Long Retired Manager had passed away in South Carolina after a lengthy illness Sympa-thy cards were sent to Tonirsquos daughters on behalf of the group Several members expressed how much our card program meant to them comments were made by Peggy Forcey Vince Pesini Bob Bryant and Therese Hall Door prizes were won by Patty Puryear Fran Stanley Carrine Simms Fannie Anderson Mr Carter and Barbara Robinson and server Brittany The 5050 was won by Barbara Puryear
Pag e 12 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Kay and Vince Pisini Yoshiko
Brown and Reiko Williams
Evelyn Sprague Marianne Overhiser Katie
Barrett Edna Rock and Velma Watkins
Barbara Puryear Priscilla Parker
Patti Puryear and Glenn Parker
Arlene Cornish Sandi Grady Nedra
Harris and Barbara Robinson Fannie Anderson Welton Chase Hank
Fleming and his Guest Our 95 year old Queen of the Day
Therese Hall with Fran Stanley
Beatrice Hargrove Carrine Simms Joyce Carr and Betty OBrien
Patti Rahilly Jones
and Marie Rahilly
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 13
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Dix-McGuire Chapter - Fran Stanley
The Ft Dix-McGuire Chapter members met to celebrate Christmas at OrsquoConnerrsquos ( formally known as Charleyrsquos Other Brother) in Mt Holly New Jersey Despite the rainy day we had over 50 members and guests in attendance who enjoyed the event Holiday music was playing in the background as participants enjoyed playing trivia games for numerous gifts as well as door prizes There was plenty of good food games and gifts to go around Participants were able to choose from London Broil Chicken Parmesan or Stuff shells as their main entreacutee Each meal came with a house salad two vegetables dinner rolls coffee tea and a holiday desert This year the members were able to sign Christmas cards that were sent to for-mer members who now live outside the state or were too ill to attend The 5050 winner Richard Schmelia generously donated $25 back to the group to help send out fruit baskets to those too ill to attend The camaraderie displayed among the group reminded us how awesome it was to work for an organization that was more than a busi-ness and more like a fami-ly May God continue to bless each of you
Earl Scott Robert Bryant and Sylvia Brown William Henriquez Reyes Errol Lawrence Jane Terri Lawrence Luis Lopez
Elaine Brown Therese Hall Monica Frederick and Edna Rock
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Golden Gate ChaptermdashErnest Kodama
Golden Gate AREA Chapter held its Christmas Luncheon on December 10 at the Spinnaker Restaurant in Sausalito CA Attending the luncheon were Mary Lou Geimer George Wills Dennis Gilman Arline Gilman Lou
Vitalie Arlene Hadfield Julia Lee Joan Turner Chick Kretz Gina Kretz Toni DeBardeleben Stanlee Garriot and Ernie Kodama
Pag e 14 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Northern California Chapter ndash Ken ldquoTomrdquo Keim
We began our fall season with a luncheon meeting at Mimirsquos of Elk Grove Members and guests attending were Renate
Atkinson and daughter Deborah Margaret Belcher Edit Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Dianne Hobbs
Celia Hudson Rosa LaBoeuf Tina Minjarez Kristin Taylor Jerri Thomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Stella and Michael
Winch The group discussed possible activities for the upcoming year such as a Sacramento train ride winery tour at Apple
Hill garage sale picnic BBQ in the ark and a casino visit Members were asked to give feedback on which of these most ap-
peal to Chapter members
Our October luncheon meeting at El Tapatio was attended by the following members and guests Margaret Belcher Rosie
Boyce Edie Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Arlene Ferry and daughter Debbie Dianne Hobbs Margie
Iwamoto Ken Keim Rosa LaBoeuf Richard Mason Gloria Masse Tina Minjarez Ellen Rivera Margie Scheatzle Kristin
Taylor Jerri Toomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Lee Woodward
October November and December are the busiest time of the year The annual fall bake and used book sale was held on Octo-
ber 29 at McClellan BX The annual holiday auction was held following the regular November 9 luncheon meeting at the IHOP on Sunrise Blvd and we held our gala Christmas luncheon on December 11 at Zinfandel Grill
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 15
Gulf Coast Chapter - Jan Comstock
Super fun and exciting AAFES Retiree Christmas luncheon 62 in attendance We had a blast We had to renew our
membership and pay our $500 dues for the year We had a great raffle and also brought in can goods for the food
banks in our area A great big thank you and job well done to Steve Friend and Regina Steve Mitchell and Susan
attended both doing so much better Missed three that could not attend We had so much fun with our signsmdashfound
out we have a lot of naughty ladies They all asked for the naughty sign A big plus for me was that the group
sang Happy Birthday to me The waitress surprised me with a slice of chocolate cake with a candle and ice cream We
also recognized the other December birthday Merry Christmas
Scott Maynard Billy Hullen-der and Brenda Hullender
Olive Bobo and Marcia Watts Harville
Isabelle Good Hender-shot and Gail Golden Escobedo
See many more photos on Jan Comstockrsquos Facebook page
Jan Comstock
North Texas ChaptermdashRichard Sheff and Linda Dean
The North Texas Chapter of AREA has been busy this past quarter attending events such as the music of Johnny Cash a FREE Membership Appreciation Luncheon and a Holiday Celebration amp Gift Ex-change Please follow us on our Facebook page at North Texas Chapter of AREA to see all of the pic-tures
ldquoRing of Firerdquo at the Addison Water Tower Theatre Oct 16 ndash NTC-AREA members attended a play that
included the music of Johnny Cash After the Johnny Cash music we enjoyed dinner at BJrsquos Restaurant and
Brewhouse
Linda Dean Jerry amp Carlon Cloud
and Sarah Rabb Marilyn amp Leon Levin Doug amp Gail Olney Lina amp Chuck Poffenbarger
Membership Appreciation FREE Luncheon at Rudyrsquos BBQ Nov 3 ndash Annually the North Texas Chapter of
AREA has a FREE appreciation luncheon for members This year 103 members enjoyed barbecue at Rudyrsquos
Barbecue amp Country Store
Even with 2 serving tables the lines were long There was plenty of food for everyone
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Continued on next page
Pag e 16 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Take coverhellip Richard Sheff has a knife to cut the cake
NTC-AREA Board Meeting at HQ Nov 11 - After a NTC-AREA board meeting at HQ some of the members ran into some of the active Exchange Executives Dave Nelson and Ana Middleton From left to right Roy Robertson Jr Debbie Kliment Byerly Tom Branning Dave Nelson Richard Sheff Ana Middle-ton Jack Leavitt and Dale Linebarger
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Annual Holiday Celebration amp Gift Exchange Dec 4 ndash To celebrate the holiday season NTC-AREA members
gathered for a late luncheon at the YO Ranch Steakhouse The food was good and we had a private room for social-
izing and fun with the gift exchange
56 members attended the party at the YO Ranch Steakhouse So many pretty packages
to choose from
NTC President
Richard Sheff and
Master of Ceremo-
nies always
makes the gift ex-
change so much
fun
Bobbye Towns wearing
her Christmas gift Do you
think wersquoll see it again
next year
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos
Pat Weaver writes ldquoIf the mem-
bers want to know why their
checks are delayed this is the rea-
son The little Christmas trees are
my lsquoRed Neckrsquo trees They have
gun shells on them for lightsrdquo I
made all the ceramic pieces such
as the Santas and manger scenes
(See more photos on page 23)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 17
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith
In the summer of 1973 the Exchange transferred me from the Colorado Area Ex-change Fort Carson CO where I was the Services Operations Manager to the Okina-wa Regional Exchange as Chief of Services I was a 13 year veteran of AAFES at that time starting when I graduated High School in 1960 with the George AFB Exchange Victorville CA My first job was a Petroleum Transfer Engineer a Pump Island At-tendant for the unlearned Okinawa was our first overseas assignment and it was the first time my wife and children would fly My four year old son at the time would look up in the sky at an airplane and ask his Mother lsquoCanrsquot Daddy drive the car to Okinawarsquo We could never find the lsquobridgersquo across the Pacific so fly it was
We stopped over in Hawaii for several days to straighten out some passport issues for my family then it was on to Okinawa We landed at the lsquotail endrsquo of a Typhoon with scores of airport employees meeting the aircraft with umbrellas ushering us to a bus to take to us to the terminal Much of the Naha Airport was open to the outside in 1973 which would have been a delight except it was raining very hard with high winds John Hanson was our sponsor and met us at
the exit to Customs and welcomed us to Okinawa He and Lydie took very good care of us and helped us to acclimate ourselves to Okinawa life
It took us a few weeks to get our quarters assigned to us and with lsquoaddressrsquo and direc-tions in hand we drove to see it According to the house numbers it was an empty lot overgrown with trees and weeds 20rsquo tall After several passes searching to make sure I was not overlooking the address I was getting ready to go back to the housing office when my daughter said lsquolook Daddy I can see a roofrsquo I stopped and walked through the undergrowth to a house that appeared to have been sitting empty for a while Later that evening I told John Hanson that we found the house but it will take a little bit of work to clear the growth to where we can live in the house With the help of a lsquoPapa-sanrsquo we were able to do so quickly and settled in for life on Okinawa
While in Hawaii my children begged me to go to the beach which I refused because I told them lsquowe are going to live on an island for three years you can swim when we get therersquo However the Okinawa of 1973 is not the Okinawa of today The only beach for swimming we could find was Okuma on the Northern part of the Island The other shore line was riddled with volcanic rock which required you to wear lsquocombat bootsrsquo to walk However we loved it
The Okinawa of today 40 plus years later is much dif-ferent Pat and I were offered the opportunity to come back for three months to lsquofill inrsquo for a Missionary Pas-tor in the Church we were members of while here in the 70rsquos who needed to return to the States for that pe-riod of time We were immediately reminded lsquowe live in a different worldrsquo today than that we experienced four decades ago with the added security at airports the
enhanced visa checks customs inspectiondeclaration and when we were met with the lsquoclosedrsquo Military Installations that were open in the 1970rsquos
But the thing that had not changed is the politeness of the Japanese people We flew into Tokyo Narita Airport and had to catch a bus for the 45 minute drive to Haneda Air-port where our flight departed to Okinawa The attendants were striking with their cus-tomary bow to all who boarded the bus and we were met with this same courtesy when the bus arrived at Haneda and again when we exited the plane at Naha Okinawa In the Restaurants the stores-large and small-we have been met with this ever present polite welcome
Our hour drive from the Airport to Church apartments on the evening of our arrival introduced us to a modern Express Way ex-tending the full length of the Island and a lsquospider likersquo network of roads leading to all parts of the Islands A number of the 1970 Military Installations have been returned to the Japanese Government and replaced with lsquohigh risersquo buildings
On what used to be the Awase Golf Course is now the Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom a multistory mall that would rival any mod-ern mall we might find in the States The Express Way frequently maneuvers through tunnels carved out of the limited moun-tains on Okinawa the coral shores have been replaced with sand and beaches are plentiful as are numerous scenic drives through the countryside
Pag e 18 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Don amp Patsy Smith
I have not been able to verify the figures but I recall using population figures in the 1970rsquos of 300000 today that population exceeds 1300000 Okinawa has become Mainland Japanrsquos Hawaii resort Island
During our time here the enhanced security has required us to lsquoget a passrsquo for Pat as she does not have a CAC which I have to enter the Military Installations One of the Church members sponsored her allowing us to visit many of the Exchange Facili-ties Today Futenma Kadena Hansen Torii Schwab Foster and Kinser are the major facilities remaining on the Island
I remember in the 70rsquos sharing with my Okinawan counter parts the need for the Exchange Facilities to lsquolook like homersquo for the Americans They of course were willing to help but my Automotive Tech Rep Arkaki-san asked me lsquowhat does home look likersquo We were trying to emulate the lsquoappearancersquo of our Stateside BasePost Exchanges but knowing they would not know what they looked like I told him we need to make them look like SEARS we did not have Wal-Mart in those days
He and the others nodded and we went about working on the lsquofacadesrsquo of the scattered Service Facilities we had all over the Island On one occasion I invited lsquomy guysrsquo to our home for a cook out with homemade ice cream and Arkaki-san asked how I thought our efforts were coming along with the lsquolookrsquo as I called it I told him I was very pleased and more important so were our customers He then told me lsquoI am happy because none of us know this SEARS you talk about what does it look likersquo I learned a lesson that day lsquodonrsquot always assume your counterpart in a different country understands the word picture you are trying to sharersquo
But back to today the Exchange folks here continue with that lsquolook of homersquo approach The added franchise facilities like Chilirsquos Subway Popeyes Baskin Robbins and of course one of my favorites one of the original Exchange self-franchises Anthonyrsquos Pizza dates back to lsquomy daysrsquo
Being in a lsquoMilitaryrsquo Church I have had to opportunity to talk with many Military Families from the Air Force Army Ma-rines and Navy My lsquoMarinersquo friends will ask lsquowhy did not you list the Marines first we always arrive firstrsquo But I chose to list them alphabetically to not offend either of the branches They each are among the lsquofinestrsquo of the young men and women who serve our country I am proud to be with them even if only for a short while All I have met are lsquothrilledrsquo with the Ex-change Facilities on Okinawa In fact one Marine told me lsquoit is a touch of homersquo
So to the Exchange Family in Okinawa lsquoGreat Jobrsquo
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith (Continued)
In the News From a December 15 e-mail from Jim Henry ldquo In case you missed it Darren Woods son of Dale and Karen Woods was named today to be Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mo-bil Darren replaces Rex Tillerson who is being nominated for Secretary of State Dale and Karen hope you dont mind me bragging on Darren a little You must be awfully proud of himrdquo
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 19
IN REMEMBRANCE
ERENEO COPADA 89 Aug 20 in San Francisco CA The Presidio of San Francisco Safety and Security Assistant retired in 1998
DENNIS JONES 81 died July 12 in Dallas TX The Frankfurt General Manager retired in 1986
BILLY GILES 77 died Aug 10 in Red Oak TX The HQ Computer Systems analyst retired in 1995
Antoinette (Toni) Long 79 died Sept 4 in Hampton SC The Los Angeles AFB General Manager retired in 1992
THOMAS SAVAGEAU 79 died Aug 23 in Ajijic Jalisco Mexico The HQ Associate retired in 1989
JOHN SHARP 59 died May 12 in Ovilla TX The Europe Egion Area manager retired in 2013
PAUL TAFF 90 died Aug 21 in Arlington TX The HQ Associate retired in 1983
ROBERT WILLINGHAM 84 died Sept 28 in Dallas TX The HQ Associate retired in 1993
DOUGLAS WOODHOUSE 64 died Oct 1 in Mobile AL The HQ Management Analyst retired in 2006
Pag e 20 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
WILLS ldquoFrom time to time retired associates of AAFES leave be-quests to the AREA in their will If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that pre-pares your formally written and executed will with the follow-ing sample clause If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause I give (blank dollarsproperty) to the Army Air Force Ex-change Service Retired Employees Association (AREA) PO Box 380614 Duncanville Texas 75138
Other Chapter reported deaths
George John Vomvoris legendary AAFES Food amp Services Executive (76) passed
away on November 18 2016 with his family by his side in Waxahachie Texas
Also we received news that Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur who is well known as
the first female super rate in AAFES passed away at age 88 in early November
(See eulogy on pages 21-23 by Aubrey Rembold)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
Reduce your Medical Deductible in 2017 with Health Incentive Credits
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
For 2017 the maximum health incentive credit an individual can earn is $250 The family maximum is
$600 In 2017 covered retirees and their covered spouse should have already completed the Compass Health Assess-
ment to earn the Health Incentive Credits If you have not done so do so now
Health Incentive Credit features
Applied to the medical deductible andor coinsurance as claims are processed The credit cannot be applied to copay-
ments such as PCP Specialist Emergency Room Urgent Care copays Hospital confinement fees or pharmacy co-
pays
middot The credit will roll over every year until used up to 3 years
middot Credits are displayed on the Explanation of Benefits and in Aetna Navigator
Here are a few things you need to know
The Compass Health Assessment is a new and improved questionnaire that takes just 10 minutes to com-
plete Members answer questions about personal and family health history lifestyle habits recent screening results
and other health factors Since this is a brand new assessment members will need to complete it instead of just adding
updates as no previous answers will be carried over No other activities will earn credits until the assessment is com-
pleted To take the assessment log in to wwwaetnacom and click ldquoI want to Take a Health Assessmentrdquo on the
home page
These credits will be placed in an account and applied towards the first family memberrsquos claim where the deductible
andor coinsurance would be applied
Activity Health Incentive Credit Amount Calendar Year Maxi-
mum
Complete metabolic syndrome
screening before April 1 2017
$150 each $150 for employee only
and $300 for employee
and covered spouse Complete metabolic syndrome
screening between April 1 and
November 30 2017
$100 each
Disease Management (DM) goal ndash
complete 3 calls with a DM nurse
$100 each
Complete online journey (average
time 32 days)
$ 50 each up to four journeys $200 for employee only
or $400 for family
Dependent Children
Under Age 18
Have a preventive care exam $ 50 for each child pre- year
Pag e 6 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 7
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
In October we announced that Ken Weaver resigned as the AREA Representative on the Trustees
board and Terry Corley became the new AREA Representative Renee Figge who had recently retired
as AAFES CFO agreed to be the Alternate If you donrsquot already know Renee here is a short recap of
her career
Renee began her career with the Exchange in 1986 as a Management Trainee in San Antonio Her first
assignment was a field accountant in the New England Area From there she held numerous manage-
ment position in the Controller division where she was part of the team establishing the Integrated Gen-
eral Ledger Accounting System (IGLAS) in 1993 Next Renee worked in Treasury and was named the
Assistant Treasurer responsible for the daily operations of Treasury Management In 2006 she was
named the Exchange Treasurer As Treasurer she managed traditional corporate financial functions including treasury manage-
ment risk management benefit administration pension and investments private label consumer credit and collections She was
named Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in March 2014 the first female CFO of AAFES Renee was born
and raised in Westminster Mass and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Fitchburg State College
Mass She is also a Certified Public Accountant
Get Your Metabolic Syndrome Screening
DoD NAF Health Plan Members have you completed your metabolic syndrome screening The screening is an im-
portant step to learn about your risk for metabolic syndrome a group of health factors that can set the stage for serious
health conditions Itrsquos also a way for you and your covered spouse to each earn a $150 incentive credit
Herersquos How to schedule your FREE screening today
bull Go to MyQuestForHealthcom
bull Click ldquoRegister Nowrdquo in the ldquoNot Registered Yetrdquo box
bull Enter registration key DoD2017
bull Enter your member ID from your Aetna ID card (starts with ldquoWrdquo) Your spouse must add an ldquoSrdquo to the end of your
member ID number and enter your date of birth
bull Select ldquoGet Startedrdquo to go to the screening home page
bull Select ldquoSchedule Nowrdquo and follow the prompts to schedule your appointment
You can also call Quest at 1-866-697-8378 to make your screening appointment
Or if you choose you may have your own doctor complete the screening
You must still follow the instructions above to register with Quest This will allow you to download the Physician Re-
sults Report Form your doctor must complete and fax to Quest so you will be able to earn the incentive Note You
may be charged a fee if your screening is not part of a routine physical exam Aetna International members must use
this option as there are no Quest locations outside the US
Learn about additional ways to earn your health incentive credits
Employees with individual coverage can earn $250 in credits and employees with family coverage can earn $600
Visit wwwnafhealthplanscomgtWellness amp Resources or call Member Services at 1-800-367-6276 to learn more
REMEMBER The online health assessment is required as a first step to earn ANY credits To take the health
assessment log in at wwwaetnacom and click ldquoI want to Take a Health Assessmentrdquo on the left side of your home
page Once you have completed your biometric screening and have received your results make sure to record them in
your health assessment
Pag e 8 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
2017 AREA Scholarship Program
Since 1985 AREA has provided educational opportunities to ldquoAAFES Kidsrdquo through its schol-arship program This coming year AREA plans to award $29000 in scholarships to nine gradu-ating high school seniors Amounts are one $5000 and eight $3000 awards
2017 will mark the 28th anniversary of the AREA scholarship program the only program de-signed to directly benefit AAFES employeesrsquo and assigned militaryrsquos children To date AREA has provided $715795 in scholarship awards to 337 deserving students ndash many of whom may not have even started college without the AREA boost Now that is something we should all be proud of
So how does the program work Herersquos a short synopsis
The program is limited to graduating high school seniors One of the parents must have been an AAFES employee or assigned military on January 1 of the award year had at least twelve consecutive months of Exchange employment or in the case of military personnel Exchange assignment For a deceased parent the twelve-month employment requirement must have been met at the time of death Applications must be sent to the scholarship committee during the designated enrollment period ndash January 1 through March 31 of each year An application form is available on the AREA web site at httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-associationcommunity-programsscholarshipshtm The same site sets out the specific requirements for making application eg application period minimum SAT and ACT scores etc All application criteria are laid out on the web site The 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
ALA Luncheon and Charity Auction
Dec 9 ndash The American Logistics Asso-
ciation held a luncheon and donated
items were auctioned off by legendary
Dallas Cowboy football player Randy
White Bill Doyle DFW ALA Chapter
president presented AREA President
Chuck Poffenbarger and Scholarship
Fund Manager Michelle Priester a
check for $7500 for the AREA Schol-
arship Fund
Bill Doyle Michelle Priester and
Chuck Poffenbarger
PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75138-0614
Michelle Priester and Randy White
PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75138-0614
Community ServicemdashFall 2016
We recognize AREA chapter members 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 Recipients were provided with a Certificate of Appreciation and a recognition letter signed by the
program director and president AREA
COMMUNITY AWARD RECIPIENTS
RON CLEMENT PRESIDENT
COLUMBIA RIVER CHAPTER
VANCOUVER WASHINGTON STATE
Ron makes arrangements for all meetings ie lunches updates etc send out updates from the National AREA
and keeps us up-to-date with all AAFES happenings He has an extremely positive attitude despite health issues
and is solely responsible for keeping all the members in our chapter together
BILL EDDINGS MEMBER
NORTH TEXAS CHAPTER
DALLASFORT WORTH TEXAS
Bill is responsible for his Neighborhood Night Out program He organizes the program and gets groups to come
in and speak including the police etc to address safety issues He also gets tables set up for volunteer organiza-
tions such as Meals on Wheels to recruit volunteers
AREA JUST FOR YOU
During a visit to Nellis Air Force Base Army amp Air Force Exchange Service DirectorCEO Tom Shull and David Nelson Chief Operating Officer paid trib-ute to Lt Col Thomas ldquoMosesrdquo Bouley brother of retired Western Region Senior Vice President Ed Bouley Lt Col Bouley 65th Aggression Squadron Commander gave the ultimate sacrifice for this nation during an F-15 crash on the Nevada Test and Training Range in July 2008 Bouley Hall home to the 65th AGRS is named in his honor
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 9
Tom Shull and David Nelson
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Pag e 10 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Lynda Tanaka Adrienne Hamada Frank Cedeno Pauline Ung Mary Ann Asato Pat Watson and Bill Allgire
Rose Kawata Alice Suma
and Margaret Hasegawa Brave game contestants Dot Irvine Ethel Miguel
Jan and Mel Santana Ruth Shiroma Cynthia Hoag Ardell Katsura Roy Miura and Marlene Tokuhisa
Our donation to the Hawaii Foodbank
The Aloha Chapter held its annual Christmas party on Sunday 4 Dec at its perennial location -- The Pearl Country Club The Chapter has been holding its holiday function here for the past 20 years So they are like family to us by now A Prime Rib buffet luncheon was arranged with Baked Mahi Mahi Korean style BBQ Chicken with all the attending salads and veggies A total of 57 members spouses and guestsmdashwith one very special guest this year FRANK CEDENOmdashenjoyed the buffet games door prizes Christmas spirit and camaraderie Frank worked at the old PACEX HQ in the early 70s at the Queen Emma building and helped in the transition to its newer location on 919 Ala Moana Blvd An election of Officers was held with BILL ALLGIRE being elected as President LAURI SANTOS Treasurer and PAULINE UNG Secretary Seventeen $$$ door prizes were given away with the two $50 cash prizes being won by LANI AKI and ELAINE TAKAHASI Grand Prize winners of $50 were MARY ANN ASATO FRANCES SAITO MILTON SHIMIZU and ROY MIURAmdash with the final $100 Grand Prize being won by ETHEL MIGUEL -- wining more with her AAFES family than her recent trip to Vegas Everyone left with renewed energy and filled with the Christmas Spirit
Aloha ChaptermdashBill Allgire
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 11
Alamo ChaptermdashBrenda Borland
The Alamo Chapter in San Antonio has many events throughout the year Different hosts sponsor the events Our Dinner in September was held at Caparellis Restaurant and was hosted by Marilyn and Javier Cerna
Len and Rhonda Freitas James and Norma
Thompson Doris Morris
Brenda Borland and Song Choe
Tony and Ella Trevino
Bilge Cordani and
Claire Guillemette
Judy and Lee Rux Marilyn and Javier Cerna Janice and Bill Dobbs
Mike Bresnok and
Shannon Soefje
Kim Mathews and
Dan Forsch
Ruth Lown Lois Lown
and Roy Hines
Ken Limtiaco Mike and
Betty Rohrer Paula Hall Virginia and
Bob Askew
Ann and Tim Brogan
Attending but not pictured
Kathy Jackson and Mark Porter
Dix-McGuire Chapter- Fran Stanley
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
The DIX- MCGUIRE RETIREE S ASSOCIATION held its fall luncheon on September 12 2016 at a favor ite location Cracker Barrel in Bur lington New J ersey There were 50 members in attendance Everyone enjoyed catching up with for -mer co-workers friends and new acquaintances There was plenty of good food camaraderie and door prizes to go around The AREA benefits briefing conducted in June 2016 was discussed and copies of pertinent information distributed to the author-ized members Many were amazed at additional benefits available to them through their Aetna insurance Jan Terry wife of Errol Lawrence provide the group with upcoming events including an Artists Reception and a water-color class at her Art Gallery Many members have taken classes provided by Jan and find them enjoyable Eloise Thomas invited the group to take advantage and join the Browns Mills senior citizen group for adventures to places including bus trips to Atlantic City Casi-nos Honorary member and long-time customer Therese Hall celebrated her 95th birthday with the group Asked what she attributes her youthful appearance and diligent restraint to aging she replied that she comes from a family with good genes She said to do what you like but in moderation Other birthday wishes were made to Joyce Carr Earl Scott Vince Pesini and Erna Jackson Also the group was informed that Toni Long Retired Manager had passed away in South Carolina after a lengthy illness Sympa-thy cards were sent to Tonirsquos daughters on behalf of the group Several members expressed how much our card program meant to them comments were made by Peggy Forcey Vince Pesini Bob Bryant and Therese Hall Door prizes were won by Patty Puryear Fran Stanley Carrine Simms Fannie Anderson Mr Carter and Barbara Robinson and server Brittany The 5050 was won by Barbara Puryear
Pag e 12 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Kay and Vince Pisini Yoshiko
Brown and Reiko Williams
Evelyn Sprague Marianne Overhiser Katie
Barrett Edna Rock and Velma Watkins
Barbara Puryear Priscilla Parker
Patti Puryear and Glenn Parker
Arlene Cornish Sandi Grady Nedra
Harris and Barbara Robinson Fannie Anderson Welton Chase Hank
Fleming and his Guest Our 95 year old Queen of the Day
Therese Hall with Fran Stanley
Beatrice Hargrove Carrine Simms Joyce Carr and Betty OBrien
Patti Rahilly Jones
and Marie Rahilly
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 13
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Dix-McGuire Chapter - Fran Stanley
The Ft Dix-McGuire Chapter members met to celebrate Christmas at OrsquoConnerrsquos ( formally known as Charleyrsquos Other Brother) in Mt Holly New Jersey Despite the rainy day we had over 50 members and guests in attendance who enjoyed the event Holiday music was playing in the background as participants enjoyed playing trivia games for numerous gifts as well as door prizes There was plenty of good food games and gifts to go around Participants were able to choose from London Broil Chicken Parmesan or Stuff shells as their main entreacutee Each meal came with a house salad two vegetables dinner rolls coffee tea and a holiday desert This year the members were able to sign Christmas cards that were sent to for-mer members who now live outside the state or were too ill to attend The 5050 winner Richard Schmelia generously donated $25 back to the group to help send out fruit baskets to those too ill to attend The camaraderie displayed among the group reminded us how awesome it was to work for an organization that was more than a busi-ness and more like a fami-ly May God continue to bless each of you
Earl Scott Robert Bryant and Sylvia Brown William Henriquez Reyes Errol Lawrence Jane Terri Lawrence Luis Lopez
Elaine Brown Therese Hall Monica Frederick and Edna Rock
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Golden Gate ChaptermdashErnest Kodama
Golden Gate AREA Chapter held its Christmas Luncheon on December 10 at the Spinnaker Restaurant in Sausalito CA Attending the luncheon were Mary Lou Geimer George Wills Dennis Gilman Arline Gilman Lou
Vitalie Arlene Hadfield Julia Lee Joan Turner Chick Kretz Gina Kretz Toni DeBardeleben Stanlee Garriot and Ernie Kodama
Pag e 14 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Northern California Chapter ndash Ken ldquoTomrdquo Keim
We began our fall season with a luncheon meeting at Mimirsquos of Elk Grove Members and guests attending were Renate
Atkinson and daughter Deborah Margaret Belcher Edit Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Dianne Hobbs
Celia Hudson Rosa LaBoeuf Tina Minjarez Kristin Taylor Jerri Thomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Stella and Michael
Winch The group discussed possible activities for the upcoming year such as a Sacramento train ride winery tour at Apple
Hill garage sale picnic BBQ in the ark and a casino visit Members were asked to give feedback on which of these most ap-
peal to Chapter members
Our October luncheon meeting at El Tapatio was attended by the following members and guests Margaret Belcher Rosie
Boyce Edie Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Arlene Ferry and daughter Debbie Dianne Hobbs Margie
Iwamoto Ken Keim Rosa LaBoeuf Richard Mason Gloria Masse Tina Minjarez Ellen Rivera Margie Scheatzle Kristin
Taylor Jerri Toomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Lee Woodward
October November and December are the busiest time of the year The annual fall bake and used book sale was held on Octo-
ber 29 at McClellan BX The annual holiday auction was held following the regular November 9 luncheon meeting at the IHOP on Sunrise Blvd and we held our gala Christmas luncheon on December 11 at Zinfandel Grill
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 15
Gulf Coast Chapter - Jan Comstock
Super fun and exciting AAFES Retiree Christmas luncheon 62 in attendance We had a blast We had to renew our
membership and pay our $500 dues for the year We had a great raffle and also brought in can goods for the food
banks in our area A great big thank you and job well done to Steve Friend and Regina Steve Mitchell and Susan
attended both doing so much better Missed three that could not attend We had so much fun with our signsmdashfound
out we have a lot of naughty ladies They all asked for the naughty sign A big plus for me was that the group
sang Happy Birthday to me The waitress surprised me with a slice of chocolate cake with a candle and ice cream We
also recognized the other December birthday Merry Christmas
Scott Maynard Billy Hullen-der and Brenda Hullender
Olive Bobo and Marcia Watts Harville
Isabelle Good Hender-shot and Gail Golden Escobedo
See many more photos on Jan Comstockrsquos Facebook page
Jan Comstock
North Texas ChaptermdashRichard Sheff and Linda Dean
The North Texas Chapter of AREA has been busy this past quarter attending events such as the music of Johnny Cash a FREE Membership Appreciation Luncheon and a Holiday Celebration amp Gift Ex-change Please follow us on our Facebook page at North Texas Chapter of AREA to see all of the pic-tures
ldquoRing of Firerdquo at the Addison Water Tower Theatre Oct 16 ndash NTC-AREA members attended a play that
included the music of Johnny Cash After the Johnny Cash music we enjoyed dinner at BJrsquos Restaurant and
Brewhouse
Linda Dean Jerry amp Carlon Cloud
and Sarah Rabb Marilyn amp Leon Levin Doug amp Gail Olney Lina amp Chuck Poffenbarger
Membership Appreciation FREE Luncheon at Rudyrsquos BBQ Nov 3 ndash Annually the North Texas Chapter of
AREA has a FREE appreciation luncheon for members This year 103 members enjoyed barbecue at Rudyrsquos
Barbecue amp Country Store
Even with 2 serving tables the lines were long There was plenty of food for everyone
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Continued on next page
Pag e 16 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Take coverhellip Richard Sheff has a knife to cut the cake
NTC-AREA Board Meeting at HQ Nov 11 - After a NTC-AREA board meeting at HQ some of the members ran into some of the active Exchange Executives Dave Nelson and Ana Middleton From left to right Roy Robertson Jr Debbie Kliment Byerly Tom Branning Dave Nelson Richard Sheff Ana Middle-ton Jack Leavitt and Dale Linebarger
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Annual Holiday Celebration amp Gift Exchange Dec 4 ndash To celebrate the holiday season NTC-AREA members
gathered for a late luncheon at the YO Ranch Steakhouse The food was good and we had a private room for social-
izing and fun with the gift exchange
56 members attended the party at the YO Ranch Steakhouse So many pretty packages
to choose from
NTC President
Richard Sheff and
Master of Ceremo-
nies always
makes the gift ex-
change so much
fun
Bobbye Towns wearing
her Christmas gift Do you
think wersquoll see it again
next year
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos
Pat Weaver writes ldquoIf the mem-
bers want to know why their
checks are delayed this is the rea-
son The little Christmas trees are
my lsquoRed Neckrsquo trees They have
gun shells on them for lightsrdquo I
made all the ceramic pieces such
as the Santas and manger scenes
(See more photos on page 23)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 17
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith
In the summer of 1973 the Exchange transferred me from the Colorado Area Ex-change Fort Carson CO where I was the Services Operations Manager to the Okina-wa Regional Exchange as Chief of Services I was a 13 year veteran of AAFES at that time starting when I graduated High School in 1960 with the George AFB Exchange Victorville CA My first job was a Petroleum Transfer Engineer a Pump Island At-tendant for the unlearned Okinawa was our first overseas assignment and it was the first time my wife and children would fly My four year old son at the time would look up in the sky at an airplane and ask his Mother lsquoCanrsquot Daddy drive the car to Okinawarsquo We could never find the lsquobridgersquo across the Pacific so fly it was
We stopped over in Hawaii for several days to straighten out some passport issues for my family then it was on to Okinawa We landed at the lsquotail endrsquo of a Typhoon with scores of airport employees meeting the aircraft with umbrellas ushering us to a bus to take to us to the terminal Much of the Naha Airport was open to the outside in 1973 which would have been a delight except it was raining very hard with high winds John Hanson was our sponsor and met us at
the exit to Customs and welcomed us to Okinawa He and Lydie took very good care of us and helped us to acclimate ourselves to Okinawa life
It took us a few weeks to get our quarters assigned to us and with lsquoaddressrsquo and direc-tions in hand we drove to see it According to the house numbers it was an empty lot overgrown with trees and weeds 20rsquo tall After several passes searching to make sure I was not overlooking the address I was getting ready to go back to the housing office when my daughter said lsquolook Daddy I can see a roofrsquo I stopped and walked through the undergrowth to a house that appeared to have been sitting empty for a while Later that evening I told John Hanson that we found the house but it will take a little bit of work to clear the growth to where we can live in the house With the help of a lsquoPapa-sanrsquo we were able to do so quickly and settled in for life on Okinawa
While in Hawaii my children begged me to go to the beach which I refused because I told them lsquowe are going to live on an island for three years you can swim when we get therersquo However the Okinawa of 1973 is not the Okinawa of today The only beach for swimming we could find was Okuma on the Northern part of the Island The other shore line was riddled with volcanic rock which required you to wear lsquocombat bootsrsquo to walk However we loved it
The Okinawa of today 40 plus years later is much dif-ferent Pat and I were offered the opportunity to come back for three months to lsquofill inrsquo for a Missionary Pas-tor in the Church we were members of while here in the 70rsquos who needed to return to the States for that pe-riod of time We were immediately reminded lsquowe live in a different worldrsquo today than that we experienced four decades ago with the added security at airports the
enhanced visa checks customs inspectiondeclaration and when we were met with the lsquoclosedrsquo Military Installations that were open in the 1970rsquos
But the thing that had not changed is the politeness of the Japanese people We flew into Tokyo Narita Airport and had to catch a bus for the 45 minute drive to Haneda Air-port where our flight departed to Okinawa The attendants were striking with their cus-tomary bow to all who boarded the bus and we were met with this same courtesy when the bus arrived at Haneda and again when we exited the plane at Naha Okinawa In the Restaurants the stores-large and small-we have been met with this ever present polite welcome
Our hour drive from the Airport to Church apartments on the evening of our arrival introduced us to a modern Express Way ex-tending the full length of the Island and a lsquospider likersquo network of roads leading to all parts of the Islands A number of the 1970 Military Installations have been returned to the Japanese Government and replaced with lsquohigh risersquo buildings
On what used to be the Awase Golf Course is now the Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom a multistory mall that would rival any mod-ern mall we might find in the States The Express Way frequently maneuvers through tunnels carved out of the limited moun-tains on Okinawa the coral shores have been replaced with sand and beaches are plentiful as are numerous scenic drives through the countryside
Pag e 18 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Don amp Patsy Smith
I have not been able to verify the figures but I recall using population figures in the 1970rsquos of 300000 today that population exceeds 1300000 Okinawa has become Mainland Japanrsquos Hawaii resort Island
During our time here the enhanced security has required us to lsquoget a passrsquo for Pat as she does not have a CAC which I have to enter the Military Installations One of the Church members sponsored her allowing us to visit many of the Exchange Facili-ties Today Futenma Kadena Hansen Torii Schwab Foster and Kinser are the major facilities remaining on the Island
I remember in the 70rsquos sharing with my Okinawan counter parts the need for the Exchange Facilities to lsquolook like homersquo for the Americans They of course were willing to help but my Automotive Tech Rep Arkaki-san asked me lsquowhat does home look likersquo We were trying to emulate the lsquoappearancersquo of our Stateside BasePost Exchanges but knowing they would not know what they looked like I told him we need to make them look like SEARS we did not have Wal-Mart in those days
He and the others nodded and we went about working on the lsquofacadesrsquo of the scattered Service Facilities we had all over the Island On one occasion I invited lsquomy guysrsquo to our home for a cook out with homemade ice cream and Arkaki-san asked how I thought our efforts were coming along with the lsquolookrsquo as I called it I told him I was very pleased and more important so were our customers He then told me lsquoI am happy because none of us know this SEARS you talk about what does it look likersquo I learned a lesson that day lsquodonrsquot always assume your counterpart in a different country understands the word picture you are trying to sharersquo
But back to today the Exchange folks here continue with that lsquolook of homersquo approach The added franchise facilities like Chilirsquos Subway Popeyes Baskin Robbins and of course one of my favorites one of the original Exchange self-franchises Anthonyrsquos Pizza dates back to lsquomy daysrsquo
Being in a lsquoMilitaryrsquo Church I have had to opportunity to talk with many Military Families from the Air Force Army Ma-rines and Navy My lsquoMarinersquo friends will ask lsquowhy did not you list the Marines first we always arrive firstrsquo But I chose to list them alphabetically to not offend either of the branches They each are among the lsquofinestrsquo of the young men and women who serve our country I am proud to be with them even if only for a short while All I have met are lsquothrilledrsquo with the Ex-change Facilities on Okinawa In fact one Marine told me lsquoit is a touch of homersquo
So to the Exchange Family in Okinawa lsquoGreat Jobrsquo
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith (Continued)
In the News From a December 15 e-mail from Jim Henry ldquo In case you missed it Darren Woods son of Dale and Karen Woods was named today to be Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mo-bil Darren replaces Rex Tillerson who is being nominated for Secretary of State Dale and Karen hope you dont mind me bragging on Darren a little You must be awfully proud of himrdquo
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 19
IN REMEMBRANCE
ERENEO COPADA 89 Aug 20 in San Francisco CA The Presidio of San Francisco Safety and Security Assistant retired in 1998
DENNIS JONES 81 died July 12 in Dallas TX The Frankfurt General Manager retired in 1986
BILLY GILES 77 died Aug 10 in Red Oak TX The HQ Computer Systems analyst retired in 1995
Antoinette (Toni) Long 79 died Sept 4 in Hampton SC The Los Angeles AFB General Manager retired in 1992
THOMAS SAVAGEAU 79 died Aug 23 in Ajijic Jalisco Mexico The HQ Associate retired in 1989
JOHN SHARP 59 died May 12 in Ovilla TX The Europe Egion Area manager retired in 2013
PAUL TAFF 90 died Aug 21 in Arlington TX The HQ Associate retired in 1983
ROBERT WILLINGHAM 84 died Sept 28 in Dallas TX The HQ Associate retired in 1993
DOUGLAS WOODHOUSE 64 died Oct 1 in Mobile AL The HQ Management Analyst retired in 2006
Pag e 20 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
WILLS ldquoFrom time to time retired associates of AAFES leave be-quests to the AREA in their will If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that pre-pares your formally written and executed will with the follow-ing sample clause If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause I give (blank dollarsproperty) to the Army Air Force Ex-change Service Retired Employees Association (AREA) PO Box 380614 Duncanville Texas 75138
Other Chapter reported deaths
George John Vomvoris legendary AAFES Food amp Services Executive (76) passed
away on November 18 2016 with his family by his side in Waxahachie Texas
Also we received news that Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur who is well known as
the first female super rate in AAFES passed away at age 88 in early November
(See eulogy on pages 21-23 by Aubrey Rembold)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 7
YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITShellip
In October we announced that Ken Weaver resigned as the AREA Representative on the Trustees
board and Terry Corley became the new AREA Representative Renee Figge who had recently retired
as AAFES CFO agreed to be the Alternate If you donrsquot already know Renee here is a short recap of
her career
Renee began her career with the Exchange in 1986 as a Management Trainee in San Antonio Her first
assignment was a field accountant in the New England Area From there she held numerous manage-
ment position in the Controller division where she was part of the team establishing the Integrated Gen-
eral Ledger Accounting System (IGLAS) in 1993 Next Renee worked in Treasury and was named the
Assistant Treasurer responsible for the daily operations of Treasury Management In 2006 she was
named the Exchange Treasurer As Treasurer she managed traditional corporate financial functions including treasury manage-
ment risk management benefit administration pension and investments private label consumer credit and collections She was
named Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in March 2014 the first female CFO of AAFES Renee was born
and raised in Westminster Mass and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Fitchburg State College
Mass She is also a Certified Public Accountant
Get Your Metabolic Syndrome Screening
DoD NAF Health Plan Members have you completed your metabolic syndrome screening The screening is an im-
portant step to learn about your risk for metabolic syndrome a group of health factors that can set the stage for serious
health conditions Itrsquos also a way for you and your covered spouse to each earn a $150 incentive credit
Herersquos How to schedule your FREE screening today
bull Go to MyQuestForHealthcom
bull Click ldquoRegister Nowrdquo in the ldquoNot Registered Yetrdquo box
bull Enter registration key DoD2017
bull Enter your member ID from your Aetna ID card (starts with ldquoWrdquo) Your spouse must add an ldquoSrdquo to the end of your
member ID number and enter your date of birth
bull Select ldquoGet Startedrdquo to go to the screening home page
bull Select ldquoSchedule Nowrdquo and follow the prompts to schedule your appointment
You can also call Quest at 1-866-697-8378 to make your screening appointment
Or if you choose you may have your own doctor complete the screening
You must still follow the instructions above to register with Quest This will allow you to download the Physician Re-
sults Report Form your doctor must complete and fax to Quest so you will be able to earn the incentive Note You
may be charged a fee if your screening is not part of a routine physical exam Aetna International members must use
this option as there are no Quest locations outside the US
Learn about additional ways to earn your health incentive credits
Employees with individual coverage can earn $250 in credits and employees with family coverage can earn $600
Visit wwwnafhealthplanscomgtWellness amp Resources or call Member Services at 1-800-367-6276 to learn more
REMEMBER The online health assessment is required as a first step to earn ANY credits To take the health
assessment log in at wwwaetnacom and click ldquoI want to Take a Health Assessmentrdquo on the left side of your home
page Once you have completed your biometric screening and have received your results make sure to record them in
your health assessment
Pag e 8 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
2017 AREA Scholarship Program
Since 1985 AREA has provided educational opportunities to ldquoAAFES Kidsrdquo through its schol-arship program This coming year AREA plans to award $29000 in scholarships to nine gradu-ating high school seniors Amounts are one $5000 and eight $3000 awards
2017 will mark the 28th anniversary of the AREA scholarship program the only program de-signed to directly benefit AAFES employeesrsquo and assigned militaryrsquos children To date AREA has provided $715795 in scholarship awards to 337 deserving students ndash many of whom may not have even started college without the AREA boost Now that is something we should all be proud of
So how does the program work Herersquos a short synopsis
The program is limited to graduating high school seniors One of the parents must have been an AAFES employee or assigned military on January 1 of the award year had at least twelve consecutive months of Exchange employment or in the case of military personnel Exchange assignment For a deceased parent the twelve-month employment requirement must have been met at the time of death Applications must be sent to the scholarship committee during the designated enrollment period ndash January 1 through March 31 of each year An application form is available on the AREA web site at httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-associationcommunity-programsscholarshipshtm The same site sets out the specific requirements for making application eg application period minimum SAT and ACT scores etc All application criteria are laid out on the web site The 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
ALA Luncheon and Charity Auction
Dec 9 ndash The American Logistics Asso-
ciation held a luncheon and donated
items were auctioned off by legendary
Dallas Cowboy football player Randy
White Bill Doyle DFW ALA Chapter
president presented AREA President
Chuck Poffenbarger and Scholarship
Fund Manager Michelle Priester a
check for $7500 for the AREA Schol-
arship Fund
Bill Doyle Michelle Priester and
Chuck Poffenbarger
PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75138-0614
Michelle Priester and Randy White
PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75138-0614
Community ServicemdashFall 2016
We recognize AREA chapter members 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 Recipients were provided with a Certificate of Appreciation and a recognition letter signed by the
program director and president AREA
COMMUNITY AWARD RECIPIENTS
RON CLEMENT PRESIDENT
COLUMBIA RIVER CHAPTER
VANCOUVER WASHINGTON STATE
Ron makes arrangements for all meetings ie lunches updates etc send out updates from the National AREA
and keeps us up-to-date with all AAFES happenings He has an extremely positive attitude despite health issues
and is solely responsible for keeping all the members in our chapter together
BILL EDDINGS MEMBER
NORTH TEXAS CHAPTER
DALLASFORT WORTH TEXAS
Bill is responsible for his Neighborhood Night Out program He organizes the program and gets groups to come
in and speak including the police etc to address safety issues He also gets tables set up for volunteer organiza-
tions such as Meals on Wheels to recruit volunteers
AREA JUST FOR YOU
During a visit to Nellis Air Force Base Army amp Air Force Exchange Service DirectorCEO Tom Shull and David Nelson Chief Operating Officer paid trib-ute to Lt Col Thomas ldquoMosesrdquo Bouley brother of retired Western Region Senior Vice President Ed Bouley Lt Col Bouley 65th Aggression Squadron Commander gave the ultimate sacrifice for this nation during an F-15 crash on the Nevada Test and Training Range in July 2008 Bouley Hall home to the 65th AGRS is named in his honor
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 9
Tom Shull and David Nelson
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Pag e 10 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Lynda Tanaka Adrienne Hamada Frank Cedeno Pauline Ung Mary Ann Asato Pat Watson and Bill Allgire
Rose Kawata Alice Suma
and Margaret Hasegawa Brave game contestants Dot Irvine Ethel Miguel
Jan and Mel Santana Ruth Shiroma Cynthia Hoag Ardell Katsura Roy Miura and Marlene Tokuhisa
Our donation to the Hawaii Foodbank
The Aloha Chapter held its annual Christmas party on Sunday 4 Dec at its perennial location -- The Pearl Country Club The Chapter has been holding its holiday function here for the past 20 years So they are like family to us by now A Prime Rib buffet luncheon was arranged with Baked Mahi Mahi Korean style BBQ Chicken with all the attending salads and veggies A total of 57 members spouses and guestsmdashwith one very special guest this year FRANK CEDENOmdashenjoyed the buffet games door prizes Christmas spirit and camaraderie Frank worked at the old PACEX HQ in the early 70s at the Queen Emma building and helped in the transition to its newer location on 919 Ala Moana Blvd An election of Officers was held with BILL ALLGIRE being elected as President LAURI SANTOS Treasurer and PAULINE UNG Secretary Seventeen $$$ door prizes were given away with the two $50 cash prizes being won by LANI AKI and ELAINE TAKAHASI Grand Prize winners of $50 were MARY ANN ASATO FRANCES SAITO MILTON SHIMIZU and ROY MIURAmdash with the final $100 Grand Prize being won by ETHEL MIGUEL -- wining more with her AAFES family than her recent trip to Vegas Everyone left with renewed energy and filled with the Christmas Spirit
Aloha ChaptermdashBill Allgire
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 11
Alamo ChaptermdashBrenda Borland
The Alamo Chapter in San Antonio has many events throughout the year Different hosts sponsor the events Our Dinner in September was held at Caparellis Restaurant and was hosted by Marilyn and Javier Cerna
Len and Rhonda Freitas James and Norma
Thompson Doris Morris
Brenda Borland and Song Choe
Tony and Ella Trevino
Bilge Cordani and
Claire Guillemette
Judy and Lee Rux Marilyn and Javier Cerna Janice and Bill Dobbs
Mike Bresnok and
Shannon Soefje
Kim Mathews and
Dan Forsch
Ruth Lown Lois Lown
and Roy Hines
Ken Limtiaco Mike and
Betty Rohrer Paula Hall Virginia and
Bob Askew
Ann and Tim Brogan
Attending but not pictured
Kathy Jackson and Mark Porter
Dix-McGuire Chapter- Fran Stanley
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
The DIX- MCGUIRE RETIREE S ASSOCIATION held its fall luncheon on September 12 2016 at a favor ite location Cracker Barrel in Bur lington New J ersey There were 50 members in attendance Everyone enjoyed catching up with for -mer co-workers friends and new acquaintances There was plenty of good food camaraderie and door prizes to go around The AREA benefits briefing conducted in June 2016 was discussed and copies of pertinent information distributed to the author-ized members Many were amazed at additional benefits available to them through their Aetna insurance Jan Terry wife of Errol Lawrence provide the group with upcoming events including an Artists Reception and a water-color class at her Art Gallery Many members have taken classes provided by Jan and find them enjoyable Eloise Thomas invited the group to take advantage and join the Browns Mills senior citizen group for adventures to places including bus trips to Atlantic City Casi-nos Honorary member and long-time customer Therese Hall celebrated her 95th birthday with the group Asked what she attributes her youthful appearance and diligent restraint to aging she replied that she comes from a family with good genes She said to do what you like but in moderation Other birthday wishes were made to Joyce Carr Earl Scott Vince Pesini and Erna Jackson Also the group was informed that Toni Long Retired Manager had passed away in South Carolina after a lengthy illness Sympa-thy cards were sent to Tonirsquos daughters on behalf of the group Several members expressed how much our card program meant to them comments were made by Peggy Forcey Vince Pesini Bob Bryant and Therese Hall Door prizes were won by Patty Puryear Fran Stanley Carrine Simms Fannie Anderson Mr Carter and Barbara Robinson and server Brittany The 5050 was won by Barbara Puryear
Pag e 12 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Kay and Vince Pisini Yoshiko
Brown and Reiko Williams
Evelyn Sprague Marianne Overhiser Katie
Barrett Edna Rock and Velma Watkins
Barbara Puryear Priscilla Parker
Patti Puryear and Glenn Parker
Arlene Cornish Sandi Grady Nedra
Harris and Barbara Robinson Fannie Anderson Welton Chase Hank
Fleming and his Guest Our 95 year old Queen of the Day
Therese Hall with Fran Stanley
Beatrice Hargrove Carrine Simms Joyce Carr and Betty OBrien
Patti Rahilly Jones
and Marie Rahilly
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 13
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Dix-McGuire Chapter - Fran Stanley
The Ft Dix-McGuire Chapter members met to celebrate Christmas at OrsquoConnerrsquos ( formally known as Charleyrsquos Other Brother) in Mt Holly New Jersey Despite the rainy day we had over 50 members and guests in attendance who enjoyed the event Holiday music was playing in the background as participants enjoyed playing trivia games for numerous gifts as well as door prizes There was plenty of good food games and gifts to go around Participants were able to choose from London Broil Chicken Parmesan or Stuff shells as their main entreacutee Each meal came with a house salad two vegetables dinner rolls coffee tea and a holiday desert This year the members were able to sign Christmas cards that were sent to for-mer members who now live outside the state or were too ill to attend The 5050 winner Richard Schmelia generously donated $25 back to the group to help send out fruit baskets to those too ill to attend The camaraderie displayed among the group reminded us how awesome it was to work for an organization that was more than a busi-ness and more like a fami-ly May God continue to bless each of you
Earl Scott Robert Bryant and Sylvia Brown William Henriquez Reyes Errol Lawrence Jane Terri Lawrence Luis Lopez
Elaine Brown Therese Hall Monica Frederick and Edna Rock
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Golden Gate ChaptermdashErnest Kodama
Golden Gate AREA Chapter held its Christmas Luncheon on December 10 at the Spinnaker Restaurant in Sausalito CA Attending the luncheon were Mary Lou Geimer George Wills Dennis Gilman Arline Gilman Lou
Vitalie Arlene Hadfield Julia Lee Joan Turner Chick Kretz Gina Kretz Toni DeBardeleben Stanlee Garriot and Ernie Kodama
Pag e 14 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Northern California Chapter ndash Ken ldquoTomrdquo Keim
We began our fall season with a luncheon meeting at Mimirsquos of Elk Grove Members and guests attending were Renate
Atkinson and daughter Deborah Margaret Belcher Edit Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Dianne Hobbs
Celia Hudson Rosa LaBoeuf Tina Minjarez Kristin Taylor Jerri Thomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Stella and Michael
Winch The group discussed possible activities for the upcoming year such as a Sacramento train ride winery tour at Apple
Hill garage sale picnic BBQ in the ark and a casino visit Members were asked to give feedback on which of these most ap-
peal to Chapter members
Our October luncheon meeting at El Tapatio was attended by the following members and guests Margaret Belcher Rosie
Boyce Edie Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Arlene Ferry and daughter Debbie Dianne Hobbs Margie
Iwamoto Ken Keim Rosa LaBoeuf Richard Mason Gloria Masse Tina Minjarez Ellen Rivera Margie Scheatzle Kristin
Taylor Jerri Toomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Lee Woodward
October November and December are the busiest time of the year The annual fall bake and used book sale was held on Octo-
ber 29 at McClellan BX The annual holiday auction was held following the regular November 9 luncheon meeting at the IHOP on Sunrise Blvd and we held our gala Christmas luncheon on December 11 at Zinfandel Grill
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 15
Gulf Coast Chapter - Jan Comstock
Super fun and exciting AAFES Retiree Christmas luncheon 62 in attendance We had a blast We had to renew our
membership and pay our $500 dues for the year We had a great raffle and also brought in can goods for the food
banks in our area A great big thank you and job well done to Steve Friend and Regina Steve Mitchell and Susan
attended both doing so much better Missed three that could not attend We had so much fun with our signsmdashfound
out we have a lot of naughty ladies They all asked for the naughty sign A big plus for me was that the group
sang Happy Birthday to me The waitress surprised me with a slice of chocolate cake with a candle and ice cream We
also recognized the other December birthday Merry Christmas
Scott Maynard Billy Hullen-der and Brenda Hullender
Olive Bobo and Marcia Watts Harville
Isabelle Good Hender-shot and Gail Golden Escobedo
See many more photos on Jan Comstockrsquos Facebook page
Jan Comstock
North Texas ChaptermdashRichard Sheff and Linda Dean
The North Texas Chapter of AREA has been busy this past quarter attending events such as the music of Johnny Cash a FREE Membership Appreciation Luncheon and a Holiday Celebration amp Gift Ex-change Please follow us on our Facebook page at North Texas Chapter of AREA to see all of the pic-tures
ldquoRing of Firerdquo at the Addison Water Tower Theatre Oct 16 ndash NTC-AREA members attended a play that
included the music of Johnny Cash After the Johnny Cash music we enjoyed dinner at BJrsquos Restaurant and
Brewhouse
Linda Dean Jerry amp Carlon Cloud
and Sarah Rabb Marilyn amp Leon Levin Doug amp Gail Olney Lina amp Chuck Poffenbarger
Membership Appreciation FREE Luncheon at Rudyrsquos BBQ Nov 3 ndash Annually the North Texas Chapter of
AREA has a FREE appreciation luncheon for members This year 103 members enjoyed barbecue at Rudyrsquos
Barbecue amp Country Store
Even with 2 serving tables the lines were long There was plenty of food for everyone
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Continued on next page
Pag e 16 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Take coverhellip Richard Sheff has a knife to cut the cake
NTC-AREA Board Meeting at HQ Nov 11 - After a NTC-AREA board meeting at HQ some of the members ran into some of the active Exchange Executives Dave Nelson and Ana Middleton From left to right Roy Robertson Jr Debbie Kliment Byerly Tom Branning Dave Nelson Richard Sheff Ana Middle-ton Jack Leavitt and Dale Linebarger
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Annual Holiday Celebration amp Gift Exchange Dec 4 ndash To celebrate the holiday season NTC-AREA members
gathered for a late luncheon at the YO Ranch Steakhouse The food was good and we had a private room for social-
izing and fun with the gift exchange
56 members attended the party at the YO Ranch Steakhouse So many pretty packages
to choose from
NTC President
Richard Sheff and
Master of Ceremo-
nies always
makes the gift ex-
change so much
fun
Bobbye Towns wearing
her Christmas gift Do you
think wersquoll see it again
next year
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos
Pat Weaver writes ldquoIf the mem-
bers want to know why their
checks are delayed this is the rea-
son The little Christmas trees are
my lsquoRed Neckrsquo trees They have
gun shells on them for lightsrdquo I
made all the ceramic pieces such
as the Santas and manger scenes
(See more photos on page 23)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 17
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith
In the summer of 1973 the Exchange transferred me from the Colorado Area Ex-change Fort Carson CO where I was the Services Operations Manager to the Okina-wa Regional Exchange as Chief of Services I was a 13 year veteran of AAFES at that time starting when I graduated High School in 1960 with the George AFB Exchange Victorville CA My first job was a Petroleum Transfer Engineer a Pump Island At-tendant for the unlearned Okinawa was our first overseas assignment and it was the first time my wife and children would fly My four year old son at the time would look up in the sky at an airplane and ask his Mother lsquoCanrsquot Daddy drive the car to Okinawarsquo We could never find the lsquobridgersquo across the Pacific so fly it was
We stopped over in Hawaii for several days to straighten out some passport issues for my family then it was on to Okinawa We landed at the lsquotail endrsquo of a Typhoon with scores of airport employees meeting the aircraft with umbrellas ushering us to a bus to take to us to the terminal Much of the Naha Airport was open to the outside in 1973 which would have been a delight except it was raining very hard with high winds John Hanson was our sponsor and met us at
the exit to Customs and welcomed us to Okinawa He and Lydie took very good care of us and helped us to acclimate ourselves to Okinawa life
It took us a few weeks to get our quarters assigned to us and with lsquoaddressrsquo and direc-tions in hand we drove to see it According to the house numbers it was an empty lot overgrown with trees and weeds 20rsquo tall After several passes searching to make sure I was not overlooking the address I was getting ready to go back to the housing office when my daughter said lsquolook Daddy I can see a roofrsquo I stopped and walked through the undergrowth to a house that appeared to have been sitting empty for a while Later that evening I told John Hanson that we found the house but it will take a little bit of work to clear the growth to where we can live in the house With the help of a lsquoPapa-sanrsquo we were able to do so quickly and settled in for life on Okinawa
While in Hawaii my children begged me to go to the beach which I refused because I told them lsquowe are going to live on an island for three years you can swim when we get therersquo However the Okinawa of 1973 is not the Okinawa of today The only beach for swimming we could find was Okuma on the Northern part of the Island The other shore line was riddled with volcanic rock which required you to wear lsquocombat bootsrsquo to walk However we loved it
The Okinawa of today 40 plus years later is much dif-ferent Pat and I were offered the opportunity to come back for three months to lsquofill inrsquo for a Missionary Pas-tor in the Church we were members of while here in the 70rsquos who needed to return to the States for that pe-riod of time We were immediately reminded lsquowe live in a different worldrsquo today than that we experienced four decades ago with the added security at airports the
enhanced visa checks customs inspectiondeclaration and when we were met with the lsquoclosedrsquo Military Installations that were open in the 1970rsquos
But the thing that had not changed is the politeness of the Japanese people We flew into Tokyo Narita Airport and had to catch a bus for the 45 minute drive to Haneda Air-port where our flight departed to Okinawa The attendants were striking with their cus-tomary bow to all who boarded the bus and we were met with this same courtesy when the bus arrived at Haneda and again when we exited the plane at Naha Okinawa In the Restaurants the stores-large and small-we have been met with this ever present polite welcome
Our hour drive from the Airport to Church apartments on the evening of our arrival introduced us to a modern Express Way ex-tending the full length of the Island and a lsquospider likersquo network of roads leading to all parts of the Islands A number of the 1970 Military Installations have been returned to the Japanese Government and replaced with lsquohigh risersquo buildings
On what used to be the Awase Golf Course is now the Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom a multistory mall that would rival any mod-ern mall we might find in the States The Express Way frequently maneuvers through tunnels carved out of the limited moun-tains on Okinawa the coral shores have been replaced with sand and beaches are plentiful as are numerous scenic drives through the countryside
Pag e 18 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Don amp Patsy Smith
I have not been able to verify the figures but I recall using population figures in the 1970rsquos of 300000 today that population exceeds 1300000 Okinawa has become Mainland Japanrsquos Hawaii resort Island
During our time here the enhanced security has required us to lsquoget a passrsquo for Pat as she does not have a CAC which I have to enter the Military Installations One of the Church members sponsored her allowing us to visit many of the Exchange Facili-ties Today Futenma Kadena Hansen Torii Schwab Foster and Kinser are the major facilities remaining on the Island
I remember in the 70rsquos sharing with my Okinawan counter parts the need for the Exchange Facilities to lsquolook like homersquo for the Americans They of course were willing to help but my Automotive Tech Rep Arkaki-san asked me lsquowhat does home look likersquo We were trying to emulate the lsquoappearancersquo of our Stateside BasePost Exchanges but knowing they would not know what they looked like I told him we need to make them look like SEARS we did not have Wal-Mart in those days
He and the others nodded and we went about working on the lsquofacadesrsquo of the scattered Service Facilities we had all over the Island On one occasion I invited lsquomy guysrsquo to our home for a cook out with homemade ice cream and Arkaki-san asked how I thought our efforts were coming along with the lsquolookrsquo as I called it I told him I was very pleased and more important so were our customers He then told me lsquoI am happy because none of us know this SEARS you talk about what does it look likersquo I learned a lesson that day lsquodonrsquot always assume your counterpart in a different country understands the word picture you are trying to sharersquo
But back to today the Exchange folks here continue with that lsquolook of homersquo approach The added franchise facilities like Chilirsquos Subway Popeyes Baskin Robbins and of course one of my favorites one of the original Exchange self-franchises Anthonyrsquos Pizza dates back to lsquomy daysrsquo
Being in a lsquoMilitaryrsquo Church I have had to opportunity to talk with many Military Families from the Air Force Army Ma-rines and Navy My lsquoMarinersquo friends will ask lsquowhy did not you list the Marines first we always arrive firstrsquo But I chose to list them alphabetically to not offend either of the branches They each are among the lsquofinestrsquo of the young men and women who serve our country I am proud to be with them even if only for a short while All I have met are lsquothrilledrsquo with the Ex-change Facilities on Okinawa In fact one Marine told me lsquoit is a touch of homersquo
So to the Exchange Family in Okinawa lsquoGreat Jobrsquo
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith (Continued)
In the News From a December 15 e-mail from Jim Henry ldquo In case you missed it Darren Woods son of Dale and Karen Woods was named today to be Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mo-bil Darren replaces Rex Tillerson who is being nominated for Secretary of State Dale and Karen hope you dont mind me bragging on Darren a little You must be awfully proud of himrdquo
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 19
IN REMEMBRANCE
ERENEO COPADA 89 Aug 20 in San Francisco CA The Presidio of San Francisco Safety and Security Assistant retired in 1998
DENNIS JONES 81 died July 12 in Dallas TX The Frankfurt General Manager retired in 1986
BILLY GILES 77 died Aug 10 in Red Oak TX The HQ Computer Systems analyst retired in 1995
Antoinette (Toni) Long 79 died Sept 4 in Hampton SC The Los Angeles AFB General Manager retired in 1992
THOMAS SAVAGEAU 79 died Aug 23 in Ajijic Jalisco Mexico The HQ Associate retired in 1989
JOHN SHARP 59 died May 12 in Ovilla TX The Europe Egion Area manager retired in 2013
PAUL TAFF 90 died Aug 21 in Arlington TX The HQ Associate retired in 1983
ROBERT WILLINGHAM 84 died Sept 28 in Dallas TX The HQ Associate retired in 1993
DOUGLAS WOODHOUSE 64 died Oct 1 in Mobile AL The HQ Management Analyst retired in 2006
Pag e 20 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
WILLS ldquoFrom time to time retired associates of AAFES leave be-quests to the AREA in their will If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that pre-pares your formally written and executed will with the follow-ing sample clause If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause I give (blank dollarsproperty) to the Army Air Force Ex-change Service Retired Employees Association (AREA) PO Box 380614 Duncanville Texas 75138
Other Chapter reported deaths
George John Vomvoris legendary AAFES Food amp Services Executive (76) passed
away on November 18 2016 with his family by his side in Waxahachie Texas
Also we received news that Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur who is well known as
the first female super rate in AAFES passed away at age 88 in early November
(See eulogy on pages 21-23 by Aubrey Rembold)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
Pag e 8 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
2017 AREA Scholarship Program
Since 1985 AREA has provided educational opportunities to ldquoAAFES Kidsrdquo through its schol-arship program This coming year AREA plans to award $29000 in scholarships to nine gradu-ating high school seniors Amounts are one $5000 and eight $3000 awards
2017 will mark the 28th anniversary of the AREA scholarship program the only program de-signed to directly benefit AAFES employeesrsquo and assigned militaryrsquos children To date AREA has provided $715795 in scholarship awards to 337 deserving students ndash many of whom may not have even started college without the AREA boost Now that is something we should all be proud of
So how does the program work Herersquos a short synopsis
The program is limited to graduating high school seniors One of the parents must have been an AAFES employee or assigned military on January 1 of the award year had at least twelve consecutive months of Exchange employment or in the case of military personnel Exchange assignment For a deceased parent the twelve-month employment requirement must have been met at the time of death Applications must be sent to the scholarship committee during the designated enrollment period ndash January 1 through March 31 of each year An application form is available on the AREA web site at httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-associationcommunity-programsscholarshipshtm The same site sets out the specific requirements for making application eg application period minimum SAT and ACT scores etc All application criteria are laid out on the web site The 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
ALA Luncheon and Charity Auction
Dec 9 ndash The American Logistics Asso-
ciation held a luncheon and donated
items were auctioned off by legendary
Dallas Cowboy football player Randy
White Bill Doyle DFW ALA Chapter
president presented AREA President
Chuck Poffenbarger and Scholarship
Fund Manager Michelle Priester a
check for $7500 for the AREA Schol-
arship Fund
Bill Doyle Michelle Priester and
Chuck Poffenbarger
PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75138-0614
Michelle Priester and Randy White
PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75138-0614
Community ServicemdashFall 2016
We recognize AREA chapter members 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 Recipients were provided with a Certificate of Appreciation and a recognition letter signed by the
program director and president AREA
COMMUNITY AWARD RECIPIENTS
RON CLEMENT PRESIDENT
COLUMBIA RIVER CHAPTER
VANCOUVER WASHINGTON STATE
Ron makes arrangements for all meetings ie lunches updates etc send out updates from the National AREA
and keeps us up-to-date with all AAFES happenings He has an extremely positive attitude despite health issues
and is solely responsible for keeping all the members in our chapter together
BILL EDDINGS MEMBER
NORTH TEXAS CHAPTER
DALLASFORT WORTH TEXAS
Bill is responsible for his Neighborhood Night Out program He organizes the program and gets groups to come
in and speak including the police etc to address safety issues He also gets tables set up for volunteer organiza-
tions such as Meals on Wheels to recruit volunteers
AREA JUST FOR YOU
During a visit to Nellis Air Force Base Army amp Air Force Exchange Service DirectorCEO Tom Shull and David Nelson Chief Operating Officer paid trib-ute to Lt Col Thomas ldquoMosesrdquo Bouley brother of retired Western Region Senior Vice President Ed Bouley Lt Col Bouley 65th Aggression Squadron Commander gave the ultimate sacrifice for this nation during an F-15 crash on the Nevada Test and Training Range in July 2008 Bouley Hall home to the 65th AGRS is named in his honor
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 9
Tom Shull and David Nelson
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Pag e 10 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Lynda Tanaka Adrienne Hamada Frank Cedeno Pauline Ung Mary Ann Asato Pat Watson and Bill Allgire
Rose Kawata Alice Suma
and Margaret Hasegawa Brave game contestants Dot Irvine Ethel Miguel
Jan and Mel Santana Ruth Shiroma Cynthia Hoag Ardell Katsura Roy Miura and Marlene Tokuhisa
Our donation to the Hawaii Foodbank
The Aloha Chapter held its annual Christmas party on Sunday 4 Dec at its perennial location -- The Pearl Country Club The Chapter has been holding its holiday function here for the past 20 years So they are like family to us by now A Prime Rib buffet luncheon was arranged with Baked Mahi Mahi Korean style BBQ Chicken with all the attending salads and veggies A total of 57 members spouses and guestsmdashwith one very special guest this year FRANK CEDENOmdashenjoyed the buffet games door prizes Christmas spirit and camaraderie Frank worked at the old PACEX HQ in the early 70s at the Queen Emma building and helped in the transition to its newer location on 919 Ala Moana Blvd An election of Officers was held with BILL ALLGIRE being elected as President LAURI SANTOS Treasurer and PAULINE UNG Secretary Seventeen $$$ door prizes were given away with the two $50 cash prizes being won by LANI AKI and ELAINE TAKAHASI Grand Prize winners of $50 were MARY ANN ASATO FRANCES SAITO MILTON SHIMIZU and ROY MIURAmdash with the final $100 Grand Prize being won by ETHEL MIGUEL -- wining more with her AAFES family than her recent trip to Vegas Everyone left with renewed energy and filled with the Christmas Spirit
Aloha ChaptermdashBill Allgire
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 11
Alamo ChaptermdashBrenda Borland
The Alamo Chapter in San Antonio has many events throughout the year Different hosts sponsor the events Our Dinner in September was held at Caparellis Restaurant and was hosted by Marilyn and Javier Cerna
Len and Rhonda Freitas James and Norma
Thompson Doris Morris
Brenda Borland and Song Choe
Tony and Ella Trevino
Bilge Cordani and
Claire Guillemette
Judy and Lee Rux Marilyn and Javier Cerna Janice and Bill Dobbs
Mike Bresnok and
Shannon Soefje
Kim Mathews and
Dan Forsch
Ruth Lown Lois Lown
and Roy Hines
Ken Limtiaco Mike and
Betty Rohrer Paula Hall Virginia and
Bob Askew
Ann and Tim Brogan
Attending but not pictured
Kathy Jackson and Mark Porter
Dix-McGuire Chapter- Fran Stanley
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
The DIX- MCGUIRE RETIREE S ASSOCIATION held its fall luncheon on September 12 2016 at a favor ite location Cracker Barrel in Bur lington New J ersey There were 50 members in attendance Everyone enjoyed catching up with for -mer co-workers friends and new acquaintances There was plenty of good food camaraderie and door prizes to go around The AREA benefits briefing conducted in June 2016 was discussed and copies of pertinent information distributed to the author-ized members Many were amazed at additional benefits available to them through their Aetna insurance Jan Terry wife of Errol Lawrence provide the group with upcoming events including an Artists Reception and a water-color class at her Art Gallery Many members have taken classes provided by Jan and find them enjoyable Eloise Thomas invited the group to take advantage and join the Browns Mills senior citizen group for adventures to places including bus trips to Atlantic City Casi-nos Honorary member and long-time customer Therese Hall celebrated her 95th birthday with the group Asked what she attributes her youthful appearance and diligent restraint to aging she replied that she comes from a family with good genes She said to do what you like but in moderation Other birthday wishes were made to Joyce Carr Earl Scott Vince Pesini and Erna Jackson Also the group was informed that Toni Long Retired Manager had passed away in South Carolina after a lengthy illness Sympa-thy cards were sent to Tonirsquos daughters on behalf of the group Several members expressed how much our card program meant to them comments were made by Peggy Forcey Vince Pesini Bob Bryant and Therese Hall Door prizes were won by Patty Puryear Fran Stanley Carrine Simms Fannie Anderson Mr Carter and Barbara Robinson and server Brittany The 5050 was won by Barbara Puryear
Pag e 12 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Kay and Vince Pisini Yoshiko
Brown and Reiko Williams
Evelyn Sprague Marianne Overhiser Katie
Barrett Edna Rock and Velma Watkins
Barbara Puryear Priscilla Parker
Patti Puryear and Glenn Parker
Arlene Cornish Sandi Grady Nedra
Harris and Barbara Robinson Fannie Anderson Welton Chase Hank
Fleming and his Guest Our 95 year old Queen of the Day
Therese Hall with Fran Stanley
Beatrice Hargrove Carrine Simms Joyce Carr and Betty OBrien
Patti Rahilly Jones
and Marie Rahilly
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 13
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Dix-McGuire Chapter - Fran Stanley
The Ft Dix-McGuire Chapter members met to celebrate Christmas at OrsquoConnerrsquos ( formally known as Charleyrsquos Other Brother) in Mt Holly New Jersey Despite the rainy day we had over 50 members and guests in attendance who enjoyed the event Holiday music was playing in the background as participants enjoyed playing trivia games for numerous gifts as well as door prizes There was plenty of good food games and gifts to go around Participants were able to choose from London Broil Chicken Parmesan or Stuff shells as their main entreacutee Each meal came with a house salad two vegetables dinner rolls coffee tea and a holiday desert This year the members were able to sign Christmas cards that were sent to for-mer members who now live outside the state or were too ill to attend The 5050 winner Richard Schmelia generously donated $25 back to the group to help send out fruit baskets to those too ill to attend The camaraderie displayed among the group reminded us how awesome it was to work for an organization that was more than a busi-ness and more like a fami-ly May God continue to bless each of you
Earl Scott Robert Bryant and Sylvia Brown William Henriquez Reyes Errol Lawrence Jane Terri Lawrence Luis Lopez
Elaine Brown Therese Hall Monica Frederick and Edna Rock
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Golden Gate ChaptermdashErnest Kodama
Golden Gate AREA Chapter held its Christmas Luncheon on December 10 at the Spinnaker Restaurant in Sausalito CA Attending the luncheon were Mary Lou Geimer George Wills Dennis Gilman Arline Gilman Lou
Vitalie Arlene Hadfield Julia Lee Joan Turner Chick Kretz Gina Kretz Toni DeBardeleben Stanlee Garriot and Ernie Kodama
Pag e 14 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Northern California Chapter ndash Ken ldquoTomrdquo Keim
We began our fall season with a luncheon meeting at Mimirsquos of Elk Grove Members and guests attending were Renate
Atkinson and daughter Deborah Margaret Belcher Edit Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Dianne Hobbs
Celia Hudson Rosa LaBoeuf Tina Minjarez Kristin Taylor Jerri Thomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Stella and Michael
Winch The group discussed possible activities for the upcoming year such as a Sacramento train ride winery tour at Apple
Hill garage sale picnic BBQ in the ark and a casino visit Members were asked to give feedback on which of these most ap-
peal to Chapter members
Our October luncheon meeting at El Tapatio was attended by the following members and guests Margaret Belcher Rosie
Boyce Edie Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Arlene Ferry and daughter Debbie Dianne Hobbs Margie
Iwamoto Ken Keim Rosa LaBoeuf Richard Mason Gloria Masse Tina Minjarez Ellen Rivera Margie Scheatzle Kristin
Taylor Jerri Toomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Lee Woodward
October November and December are the busiest time of the year The annual fall bake and used book sale was held on Octo-
ber 29 at McClellan BX The annual holiday auction was held following the regular November 9 luncheon meeting at the IHOP on Sunrise Blvd and we held our gala Christmas luncheon on December 11 at Zinfandel Grill
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 15
Gulf Coast Chapter - Jan Comstock
Super fun and exciting AAFES Retiree Christmas luncheon 62 in attendance We had a blast We had to renew our
membership and pay our $500 dues for the year We had a great raffle and also brought in can goods for the food
banks in our area A great big thank you and job well done to Steve Friend and Regina Steve Mitchell and Susan
attended both doing so much better Missed three that could not attend We had so much fun with our signsmdashfound
out we have a lot of naughty ladies They all asked for the naughty sign A big plus for me was that the group
sang Happy Birthday to me The waitress surprised me with a slice of chocolate cake with a candle and ice cream We
also recognized the other December birthday Merry Christmas
Scott Maynard Billy Hullen-der and Brenda Hullender
Olive Bobo and Marcia Watts Harville
Isabelle Good Hender-shot and Gail Golden Escobedo
See many more photos on Jan Comstockrsquos Facebook page
Jan Comstock
North Texas ChaptermdashRichard Sheff and Linda Dean
The North Texas Chapter of AREA has been busy this past quarter attending events such as the music of Johnny Cash a FREE Membership Appreciation Luncheon and a Holiday Celebration amp Gift Ex-change Please follow us on our Facebook page at North Texas Chapter of AREA to see all of the pic-tures
ldquoRing of Firerdquo at the Addison Water Tower Theatre Oct 16 ndash NTC-AREA members attended a play that
included the music of Johnny Cash After the Johnny Cash music we enjoyed dinner at BJrsquos Restaurant and
Brewhouse
Linda Dean Jerry amp Carlon Cloud
and Sarah Rabb Marilyn amp Leon Levin Doug amp Gail Olney Lina amp Chuck Poffenbarger
Membership Appreciation FREE Luncheon at Rudyrsquos BBQ Nov 3 ndash Annually the North Texas Chapter of
AREA has a FREE appreciation luncheon for members This year 103 members enjoyed barbecue at Rudyrsquos
Barbecue amp Country Store
Even with 2 serving tables the lines were long There was plenty of food for everyone
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Continued on next page
Pag e 16 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Take coverhellip Richard Sheff has a knife to cut the cake
NTC-AREA Board Meeting at HQ Nov 11 - After a NTC-AREA board meeting at HQ some of the members ran into some of the active Exchange Executives Dave Nelson and Ana Middleton From left to right Roy Robertson Jr Debbie Kliment Byerly Tom Branning Dave Nelson Richard Sheff Ana Middle-ton Jack Leavitt and Dale Linebarger
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Annual Holiday Celebration amp Gift Exchange Dec 4 ndash To celebrate the holiday season NTC-AREA members
gathered for a late luncheon at the YO Ranch Steakhouse The food was good and we had a private room for social-
izing and fun with the gift exchange
56 members attended the party at the YO Ranch Steakhouse So many pretty packages
to choose from
NTC President
Richard Sheff and
Master of Ceremo-
nies always
makes the gift ex-
change so much
fun
Bobbye Towns wearing
her Christmas gift Do you
think wersquoll see it again
next year
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos
Pat Weaver writes ldquoIf the mem-
bers want to know why their
checks are delayed this is the rea-
son The little Christmas trees are
my lsquoRed Neckrsquo trees They have
gun shells on them for lightsrdquo I
made all the ceramic pieces such
as the Santas and manger scenes
(See more photos on page 23)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 17
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith
In the summer of 1973 the Exchange transferred me from the Colorado Area Ex-change Fort Carson CO where I was the Services Operations Manager to the Okina-wa Regional Exchange as Chief of Services I was a 13 year veteran of AAFES at that time starting when I graduated High School in 1960 with the George AFB Exchange Victorville CA My first job was a Petroleum Transfer Engineer a Pump Island At-tendant for the unlearned Okinawa was our first overseas assignment and it was the first time my wife and children would fly My four year old son at the time would look up in the sky at an airplane and ask his Mother lsquoCanrsquot Daddy drive the car to Okinawarsquo We could never find the lsquobridgersquo across the Pacific so fly it was
We stopped over in Hawaii for several days to straighten out some passport issues for my family then it was on to Okinawa We landed at the lsquotail endrsquo of a Typhoon with scores of airport employees meeting the aircraft with umbrellas ushering us to a bus to take to us to the terminal Much of the Naha Airport was open to the outside in 1973 which would have been a delight except it was raining very hard with high winds John Hanson was our sponsor and met us at
the exit to Customs and welcomed us to Okinawa He and Lydie took very good care of us and helped us to acclimate ourselves to Okinawa life
It took us a few weeks to get our quarters assigned to us and with lsquoaddressrsquo and direc-tions in hand we drove to see it According to the house numbers it was an empty lot overgrown with trees and weeds 20rsquo tall After several passes searching to make sure I was not overlooking the address I was getting ready to go back to the housing office when my daughter said lsquolook Daddy I can see a roofrsquo I stopped and walked through the undergrowth to a house that appeared to have been sitting empty for a while Later that evening I told John Hanson that we found the house but it will take a little bit of work to clear the growth to where we can live in the house With the help of a lsquoPapa-sanrsquo we were able to do so quickly and settled in for life on Okinawa
While in Hawaii my children begged me to go to the beach which I refused because I told them lsquowe are going to live on an island for three years you can swim when we get therersquo However the Okinawa of 1973 is not the Okinawa of today The only beach for swimming we could find was Okuma on the Northern part of the Island The other shore line was riddled with volcanic rock which required you to wear lsquocombat bootsrsquo to walk However we loved it
The Okinawa of today 40 plus years later is much dif-ferent Pat and I were offered the opportunity to come back for three months to lsquofill inrsquo for a Missionary Pas-tor in the Church we were members of while here in the 70rsquos who needed to return to the States for that pe-riod of time We were immediately reminded lsquowe live in a different worldrsquo today than that we experienced four decades ago with the added security at airports the
enhanced visa checks customs inspectiondeclaration and when we were met with the lsquoclosedrsquo Military Installations that were open in the 1970rsquos
But the thing that had not changed is the politeness of the Japanese people We flew into Tokyo Narita Airport and had to catch a bus for the 45 minute drive to Haneda Air-port where our flight departed to Okinawa The attendants were striking with their cus-tomary bow to all who boarded the bus and we were met with this same courtesy when the bus arrived at Haneda and again when we exited the plane at Naha Okinawa In the Restaurants the stores-large and small-we have been met with this ever present polite welcome
Our hour drive from the Airport to Church apartments on the evening of our arrival introduced us to a modern Express Way ex-tending the full length of the Island and a lsquospider likersquo network of roads leading to all parts of the Islands A number of the 1970 Military Installations have been returned to the Japanese Government and replaced with lsquohigh risersquo buildings
On what used to be the Awase Golf Course is now the Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom a multistory mall that would rival any mod-ern mall we might find in the States The Express Way frequently maneuvers through tunnels carved out of the limited moun-tains on Okinawa the coral shores have been replaced with sand and beaches are plentiful as are numerous scenic drives through the countryside
Pag e 18 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Don amp Patsy Smith
I have not been able to verify the figures but I recall using population figures in the 1970rsquos of 300000 today that population exceeds 1300000 Okinawa has become Mainland Japanrsquos Hawaii resort Island
During our time here the enhanced security has required us to lsquoget a passrsquo for Pat as she does not have a CAC which I have to enter the Military Installations One of the Church members sponsored her allowing us to visit many of the Exchange Facili-ties Today Futenma Kadena Hansen Torii Schwab Foster and Kinser are the major facilities remaining on the Island
I remember in the 70rsquos sharing with my Okinawan counter parts the need for the Exchange Facilities to lsquolook like homersquo for the Americans They of course were willing to help but my Automotive Tech Rep Arkaki-san asked me lsquowhat does home look likersquo We were trying to emulate the lsquoappearancersquo of our Stateside BasePost Exchanges but knowing they would not know what they looked like I told him we need to make them look like SEARS we did not have Wal-Mart in those days
He and the others nodded and we went about working on the lsquofacadesrsquo of the scattered Service Facilities we had all over the Island On one occasion I invited lsquomy guysrsquo to our home for a cook out with homemade ice cream and Arkaki-san asked how I thought our efforts were coming along with the lsquolookrsquo as I called it I told him I was very pleased and more important so were our customers He then told me lsquoI am happy because none of us know this SEARS you talk about what does it look likersquo I learned a lesson that day lsquodonrsquot always assume your counterpart in a different country understands the word picture you are trying to sharersquo
But back to today the Exchange folks here continue with that lsquolook of homersquo approach The added franchise facilities like Chilirsquos Subway Popeyes Baskin Robbins and of course one of my favorites one of the original Exchange self-franchises Anthonyrsquos Pizza dates back to lsquomy daysrsquo
Being in a lsquoMilitaryrsquo Church I have had to opportunity to talk with many Military Families from the Air Force Army Ma-rines and Navy My lsquoMarinersquo friends will ask lsquowhy did not you list the Marines first we always arrive firstrsquo But I chose to list them alphabetically to not offend either of the branches They each are among the lsquofinestrsquo of the young men and women who serve our country I am proud to be with them even if only for a short while All I have met are lsquothrilledrsquo with the Ex-change Facilities on Okinawa In fact one Marine told me lsquoit is a touch of homersquo
So to the Exchange Family in Okinawa lsquoGreat Jobrsquo
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith (Continued)
In the News From a December 15 e-mail from Jim Henry ldquo In case you missed it Darren Woods son of Dale and Karen Woods was named today to be Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mo-bil Darren replaces Rex Tillerson who is being nominated for Secretary of State Dale and Karen hope you dont mind me bragging on Darren a little You must be awfully proud of himrdquo
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 19
IN REMEMBRANCE
ERENEO COPADA 89 Aug 20 in San Francisco CA The Presidio of San Francisco Safety and Security Assistant retired in 1998
DENNIS JONES 81 died July 12 in Dallas TX The Frankfurt General Manager retired in 1986
BILLY GILES 77 died Aug 10 in Red Oak TX The HQ Computer Systems analyst retired in 1995
Antoinette (Toni) Long 79 died Sept 4 in Hampton SC The Los Angeles AFB General Manager retired in 1992
THOMAS SAVAGEAU 79 died Aug 23 in Ajijic Jalisco Mexico The HQ Associate retired in 1989
JOHN SHARP 59 died May 12 in Ovilla TX The Europe Egion Area manager retired in 2013
PAUL TAFF 90 died Aug 21 in Arlington TX The HQ Associate retired in 1983
ROBERT WILLINGHAM 84 died Sept 28 in Dallas TX The HQ Associate retired in 1993
DOUGLAS WOODHOUSE 64 died Oct 1 in Mobile AL The HQ Management Analyst retired in 2006
Pag e 20 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
WILLS ldquoFrom time to time retired associates of AAFES leave be-quests to the AREA in their will If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that pre-pares your formally written and executed will with the follow-ing sample clause If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause I give (blank dollarsproperty) to the Army Air Force Ex-change Service Retired Employees Association (AREA) PO Box 380614 Duncanville Texas 75138
Other Chapter reported deaths
George John Vomvoris legendary AAFES Food amp Services Executive (76) passed
away on November 18 2016 with his family by his side in Waxahachie Texas
Also we received news that Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur who is well known as
the first female super rate in AAFES passed away at age 88 in early November
(See eulogy on pages 21-23 by Aubrey Rembold)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75138-0614
Community ServicemdashFall 2016
We recognize AREA chapter members 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 Recipients were provided with a Certificate of Appreciation and a recognition letter signed by the
program director and president AREA
COMMUNITY AWARD RECIPIENTS
RON CLEMENT PRESIDENT
COLUMBIA RIVER CHAPTER
VANCOUVER WASHINGTON STATE
Ron makes arrangements for all meetings ie lunches updates etc send out updates from the National AREA
and keeps us up-to-date with all AAFES happenings He has an extremely positive attitude despite health issues
and is solely responsible for keeping all the members in our chapter together
BILL EDDINGS MEMBER
NORTH TEXAS CHAPTER
DALLASFORT WORTH TEXAS
Bill is responsible for his Neighborhood Night Out program He organizes the program and gets groups to come
in and speak including the police etc to address safety issues He also gets tables set up for volunteer organiza-
tions such as Meals on Wheels to recruit volunteers
AREA JUST FOR YOU
During a visit to Nellis Air Force Base Army amp Air Force Exchange Service DirectorCEO Tom Shull and David Nelson Chief Operating Officer paid trib-ute to Lt Col Thomas ldquoMosesrdquo Bouley brother of retired Western Region Senior Vice President Ed Bouley Lt Col Bouley 65th Aggression Squadron Commander gave the ultimate sacrifice for this nation during an F-15 crash on the Nevada Test and Training Range in July 2008 Bouley Hall home to the 65th AGRS is named in his honor
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 9
Tom Shull and David Nelson
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Pag e 10 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Lynda Tanaka Adrienne Hamada Frank Cedeno Pauline Ung Mary Ann Asato Pat Watson and Bill Allgire
Rose Kawata Alice Suma
and Margaret Hasegawa Brave game contestants Dot Irvine Ethel Miguel
Jan and Mel Santana Ruth Shiroma Cynthia Hoag Ardell Katsura Roy Miura and Marlene Tokuhisa
Our donation to the Hawaii Foodbank
The Aloha Chapter held its annual Christmas party on Sunday 4 Dec at its perennial location -- The Pearl Country Club The Chapter has been holding its holiday function here for the past 20 years So they are like family to us by now A Prime Rib buffet luncheon was arranged with Baked Mahi Mahi Korean style BBQ Chicken with all the attending salads and veggies A total of 57 members spouses and guestsmdashwith one very special guest this year FRANK CEDENOmdashenjoyed the buffet games door prizes Christmas spirit and camaraderie Frank worked at the old PACEX HQ in the early 70s at the Queen Emma building and helped in the transition to its newer location on 919 Ala Moana Blvd An election of Officers was held with BILL ALLGIRE being elected as President LAURI SANTOS Treasurer and PAULINE UNG Secretary Seventeen $$$ door prizes were given away with the two $50 cash prizes being won by LANI AKI and ELAINE TAKAHASI Grand Prize winners of $50 were MARY ANN ASATO FRANCES SAITO MILTON SHIMIZU and ROY MIURAmdash with the final $100 Grand Prize being won by ETHEL MIGUEL -- wining more with her AAFES family than her recent trip to Vegas Everyone left with renewed energy and filled with the Christmas Spirit
Aloha ChaptermdashBill Allgire
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 11
Alamo ChaptermdashBrenda Borland
The Alamo Chapter in San Antonio has many events throughout the year Different hosts sponsor the events Our Dinner in September was held at Caparellis Restaurant and was hosted by Marilyn and Javier Cerna
Len and Rhonda Freitas James and Norma
Thompson Doris Morris
Brenda Borland and Song Choe
Tony and Ella Trevino
Bilge Cordani and
Claire Guillemette
Judy and Lee Rux Marilyn and Javier Cerna Janice and Bill Dobbs
Mike Bresnok and
Shannon Soefje
Kim Mathews and
Dan Forsch
Ruth Lown Lois Lown
and Roy Hines
Ken Limtiaco Mike and
Betty Rohrer Paula Hall Virginia and
Bob Askew
Ann and Tim Brogan
Attending but not pictured
Kathy Jackson and Mark Porter
Dix-McGuire Chapter- Fran Stanley
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
The DIX- MCGUIRE RETIREE S ASSOCIATION held its fall luncheon on September 12 2016 at a favor ite location Cracker Barrel in Bur lington New J ersey There were 50 members in attendance Everyone enjoyed catching up with for -mer co-workers friends and new acquaintances There was plenty of good food camaraderie and door prizes to go around The AREA benefits briefing conducted in June 2016 was discussed and copies of pertinent information distributed to the author-ized members Many were amazed at additional benefits available to them through their Aetna insurance Jan Terry wife of Errol Lawrence provide the group with upcoming events including an Artists Reception and a water-color class at her Art Gallery Many members have taken classes provided by Jan and find them enjoyable Eloise Thomas invited the group to take advantage and join the Browns Mills senior citizen group for adventures to places including bus trips to Atlantic City Casi-nos Honorary member and long-time customer Therese Hall celebrated her 95th birthday with the group Asked what she attributes her youthful appearance and diligent restraint to aging she replied that she comes from a family with good genes She said to do what you like but in moderation Other birthday wishes were made to Joyce Carr Earl Scott Vince Pesini and Erna Jackson Also the group was informed that Toni Long Retired Manager had passed away in South Carolina after a lengthy illness Sympa-thy cards were sent to Tonirsquos daughters on behalf of the group Several members expressed how much our card program meant to them comments were made by Peggy Forcey Vince Pesini Bob Bryant and Therese Hall Door prizes were won by Patty Puryear Fran Stanley Carrine Simms Fannie Anderson Mr Carter and Barbara Robinson and server Brittany The 5050 was won by Barbara Puryear
Pag e 12 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Kay and Vince Pisini Yoshiko
Brown and Reiko Williams
Evelyn Sprague Marianne Overhiser Katie
Barrett Edna Rock and Velma Watkins
Barbara Puryear Priscilla Parker
Patti Puryear and Glenn Parker
Arlene Cornish Sandi Grady Nedra
Harris and Barbara Robinson Fannie Anderson Welton Chase Hank
Fleming and his Guest Our 95 year old Queen of the Day
Therese Hall with Fran Stanley
Beatrice Hargrove Carrine Simms Joyce Carr and Betty OBrien
Patti Rahilly Jones
and Marie Rahilly
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 13
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Dix-McGuire Chapter - Fran Stanley
The Ft Dix-McGuire Chapter members met to celebrate Christmas at OrsquoConnerrsquos ( formally known as Charleyrsquos Other Brother) in Mt Holly New Jersey Despite the rainy day we had over 50 members and guests in attendance who enjoyed the event Holiday music was playing in the background as participants enjoyed playing trivia games for numerous gifts as well as door prizes There was plenty of good food games and gifts to go around Participants were able to choose from London Broil Chicken Parmesan or Stuff shells as their main entreacutee Each meal came with a house salad two vegetables dinner rolls coffee tea and a holiday desert This year the members were able to sign Christmas cards that were sent to for-mer members who now live outside the state or were too ill to attend The 5050 winner Richard Schmelia generously donated $25 back to the group to help send out fruit baskets to those too ill to attend The camaraderie displayed among the group reminded us how awesome it was to work for an organization that was more than a busi-ness and more like a fami-ly May God continue to bless each of you
Earl Scott Robert Bryant and Sylvia Brown William Henriquez Reyes Errol Lawrence Jane Terri Lawrence Luis Lopez
Elaine Brown Therese Hall Monica Frederick and Edna Rock
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Golden Gate ChaptermdashErnest Kodama
Golden Gate AREA Chapter held its Christmas Luncheon on December 10 at the Spinnaker Restaurant in Sausalito CA Attending the luncheon were Mary Lou Geimer George Wills Dennis Gilman Arline Gilman Lou
Vitalie Arlene Hadfield Julia Lee Joan Turner Chick Kretz Gina Kretz Toni DeBardeleben Stanlee Garriot and Ernie Kodama
Pag e 14 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Northern California Chapter ndash Ken ldquoTomrdquo Keim
We began our fall season with a luncheon meeting at Mimirsquos of Elk Grove Members and guests attending were Renate
Atkinson and daughter Deborah Margaret Belcher Edit Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Dianne Hobbs
Celia Hudson Rosa LaBoeuf Tina Minjarez Kristin Taylor Jerri Thomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Stella and Michael
Winch The group discussed possible activities for the upcoming year such as a Sacramento train ride winery tour at Apple
Hill garage sale picnic BBQ in the ark and a casino visit Members were asked to give feedback on which of these most ap-
peal to Chapter members
Our October luncheon meeting at El Tapatio was attended by the following members and guests Margaret Belcher Rosie
Boyce Edie Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Arlene Ferry and daughter Debbie Dianne Hobbs Margie
Iwamoto Ken Keim Rosa LaBoeuf Richard Mason Gloria Masse Tina Minjarez Ellen Rivera Margie Scheatzle Kristin
Taylor Jerri Toomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Lee Woodward
October November and December are the busiest time of the year The annual fall bake and used book sale was held on Octo-
ber 29 at McClellan BX The annual holiday auction was held following the regular November 9 luncheon meeting at the IHOP on Sunrise Blvd and we held our gala Christmas luncheon on December 11 at Zinfandel Grill
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 15
Gulf Coast Chapter - Jan Comstock
Super fun and exciting AAFES Retiree Christmas luncheon 62 in attendance We had a blast We had to renew our
membership and pay our $500 dues for the year We had a great raffle and also brought in can goods for the food
banks in our area A great big thank you and job well done to Steve Friend and Regina Steve Mitchell and Susan
attended both doing so much better Missed three that could not attend We had so much fun with our signsmdashfound
out we have a lot of naughty ladies They all asked for the naughty sign A big plus for me was that the group
sang Happy Birthday to me The waitress surprised me with a slice of chocolate cake with a candle and ice cream We
also recognized the other December birthday Merry Christmas
Scott Maynard Billy Hullen-der and Brenda Hullender
Olive Bobo and Marcia Watts Harville
Isabelle Good Hender-shot and Gail Golden Escobedo
See many more photos on Jan Comstockrsquos Facebook page
Jan Comstock
North Texas ChaptermdashRichard Sheff and Linda Dean
The North Texas Chapter of AREA has been busy this past quarter attending events such as the music of Johnny Cash a FREE Membership Appreciation Luncheon and a Holiday Celebration amp Gift Ex-change Please follow us on our Facebook page at North Texas Chapter of AREA to see all of the pic-tures
ldquoRing of Firerdquo at the Addison Water Tower Theatre Oct 16 ndash NTC-AREA members attended a play that
included the music of Johnny Cash After the Johnny Cash music we enjoyed dinner at BJrsquos Restaurant and
Brewhouse
Linda Dean Jerry amp Carlon Cloud
and Sarah Rabb Marilyn amp Leon Levin Doug amp Gail Olney Lina amp Chuck Poffenbarger
Membership Appreciation FREE Luncheon at Rudyrsquos BBQ Nov 3 ndash Annually the North Texas Chapter of
AREA has a FREE appreciation luncheon for members This year 103 members enjoyed barbecue at Rudyrsquos
Barbecue amp Country Store
Even with 2 serving tables the lines were long There was plenty of food for everyone
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Continued on next page
Pag e 16 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Take coverhellip Richard Sheff has a knife to cut the cake
NTC-AREA Board Meeting at HQ Nov 11 - After a NTC-AREA board meeting at HQ some of the members ran into some of the active Exchange Executives Dave Nelson and Ana Middleton From left to right Roy Robertson Jr Debbie Kliment Byerly Tom Branning Dave Nelson Richard Sheff Ana Middle-ton Jack Leavitt and Dale Linebarger
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Annual Holiday Celebration amp Gift Exchange Dec 4 ndash To celebrate the holiday season NTC-AREA members
gathered for a late luncheon at the YO Ranch Steakhouse The food was good and we had a private room for social-
izing and fun with the gift exchange
56 members attended the party at the YO Ranch Steakhouse So many pretty packages
to choose from
NTC President
Richard Sheff and
Master of Ceremo-
nies always
makes the gift ex-
change so much
fun
Bobbye Towns wearing
her Christmas gift Do you
think wersquoll see it again
next year
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos
Pat Weaver writes ldquoIf the mem-
bers want to know why their
checks are delayed this is the rea-
son The little Christmas trees are
my lsquoRed Neckrsquo trees They have
gun shells on them for lightsrdquo I
made all the ceramic pieces such
as the Santas and manger scenes
(See more photos on page 23)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 17
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith
In the summer of 1973 the Exchange transferred me from the Colorado Area Ex-change Fort Carson CO where I was the Services Operations Manager to the Okina-wa Regional Exchange as Chief of Services I was a 13 year veteran of AAFES at that time starting when I graduated High School in 1960 with the George AFB Exchange Victorville CA My first job was a Petroleum Transfer Engineer a Pump Island At-tendant for the unlearned Okinawa was our first overseas assignment and it was the first time my wife and children would fly My four year old son at the time would look up in the sky at an airplane and ask his Mother lsquoCanrsquot Daddy drive the car to Okinawarsquo We could never find the lsquobridgersquo across the Pacific so fly it was
We stopped over in Hawaii for several days to straighten out some passport issues for my family then it was on to Okinawa We landed at the lsquotail endrsquo of a Typhoon with scores of airport employees meeting the aircraft with umbrellas ushering us to a bus to take to us to the terminal Much of the Naha Airport was open to the outside in 1973 which would have been a delight except it was raining very hard with high winds John Hanson was our sponsor and met us at
the exit to Customs and welcomed us to Okinawa He and Lydie took very good care of us and helped us to acclimate ourselves to Okinawa life
It took us a few weeks to get our quarters assigned to us and with lsquoaddressrsquo and direc-tions in hand we drove to see it According to the house numbers it was an empty lot overgrown with trees and weeds 20rsquo tall After several passes searching to make sure I was not overlooking the address I was getting ready to go back to the housing office when my daughter said lsquolook Daddy I can see a roofrsquo I stopped and walked through the undergrowth to a house that appeared to have been sitting empty for a while Later that evening I told John Hanson that we found the house but it will take a little bit of work to clear the growth to where we can live in the house With the help of a lsquoPapa-sanrsquo we were able to do so quickly and settled in for life on Okinawa
While in Hawaii my children begged me to go to the beach which I refused because I told them lsquowe are going to live on an island for three years you can swim when we get therersquo However the Okinawa of 1973 is not the Okinawa of today The only beach for swimming we could find was Okuma on the Northern part of the Island The other shore line was riddled with volcanic rock which required you to wear lsquocombat bootsrsquo to walk However we loved it
The Okinawa of today 40 plus years later is much dif-ferent Pat and I were offered the opportunity to come back for three months to lsquofill inrsquo for a Missionary Pas-tor in the Church we were members of while here in the 70rsquos who needed to return to the States for that pe-riod of time We were immediately reminded lsquowe live in a different worldrsquo today than that we experienced four decades ago with the added security at airports the
enhanced visa checks customs inspectiondeclaration and when we were met with the lsquoclosedrsquo Military Installations that were open in the 1970rsquos
But the thing that had not changed is the politeness of the Japanese people We flew into Tokyo Narita Airport and had to catch a bus for the 45 minute drive to Haneda Air-port where our flight departed to Okinawa The attendants were striking with their cus-tomary bow to all who boarded the bus and we were met with this same courtesy when the bus arrived at Haneda and again when we exited the plane at Naha Okinawa In the Restaurants the stores-large and small-we have been met with this ever present polite welcome
Our hour drive from the Airport to Church apartments on the evening of our arrival introduced us to a modern Express Way ex-tending the full length of the Island and a lsquospider likersquo network of roads leading to all parts of the Islands A number of the 1970 Military Installations have been returned to the Japanese Government and replaced with lsquohigh risersquo buildings
On what used to be the Awase Golf Course is now the Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom a multistory mall that would rival any mod-ern mall we might find in the States The Express Way frequently maneuvers through tunnels carved out of the limited moun-tains on Okinawa the coral shores have been replaced with sand and beaches are plentiful as are numerous scenic drives through the countryside
Pag e 18 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Don amp Patsy Smith
I have not been able to verify the figures but I recall using population figures in the 1970rsquos of 300000 today that population exceeds 1300000 Okinawa has become Mainland Japanrsquos Hawaii resort Island
During our time here the enhanced security has required us to lsquoget a passrsquo for Pat as she does not have a CAC which I have to enter the Military Installations One of the Church members sponsored her allowing us to visit many of the Exchange Facili-ties Today Futenma Kadena Hansen Torii Schwab Foster and Kinser are the major facilities remaining on the Island
I remember in the 70rsquos sharing with my Okinawan counter parts the need for the Exchange Facilities to lsquolook like homersquo for the Americans They of course were willing to help but my Automotive Tech Rep Arkaki-san asked me lsquowhat does home look likersquo We were trying to emulate the lsquoappearancersquo of our Stateside BasePost Exchanges but knowing they would not know what they looked like I told him we need to make them look like SEARS we did not have Wal-Mart in those days
He and the others nodded and we went about working on the lsquofacadesrsquo of the scattered Service Facilities we had all over the Island On one occasion I invited lsquomy guysrsquo to our home for a cook out with homemade ice cream and Arkaki-san asked how I thought our efforts were coming along with the lsquolookrsquo as I called it I told him I was very pleased and more important so were our customers He then told me lsquoI am happy because none of us know this SEARS you talk about what does it look likersquo I learned a lesson that day lsquodonrsquot always assume your counterpart in a different country understands the word picture you are trying to sharersquo
But back to today the Exchange folks here continue with that lsquolook of homersquo approach The added franchise facilities like Chilirsquos Subway Popeyes Baskin Robbins and of course one of my favorites one of the original Exchange self-franchises Anthonyrsquos Pizza dates back to lsquomy daysrsquo
Being in a lsquoMilitaryrsquo Church I have had to opportunity to talk with many Military Families from the Air Force Army Ma-rines and Navy My lsquoMarinersquo friends will ask lsquowhy did not you list the Marines first we always arrive firstrsquo But I chose to list them alphabetically to not offend either of the branches They each are among the lsquofinestrsquo of the young men and women who serve our country I am proud to be with them even if only for a short while All I have met are lsquothrilledrsquo with the Ex-change Facilities on Okinawa In fact one Marine told me lsquoit is a touch of homersquo
So to the Exchange Family in Okinawa lsquoGreat Jobrsquo
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith (Continued)
In the News From a December 15 e-mail from Jim Henry ldquo In case you missed it Darren Woods son of Dale and Karen Woods was named today to be Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mo-bil Darren replaces Rex Tillerson who is being nominated for Secretary of State Dale and Karen hope you dont mind me bragging on Darren a little You must be awfully proud of himrdquo
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 19
IN REMEMBRANCE
ERENEO COPADA 89 Aug 20 in San Francisco CA The Presidio of San Francisco Safety and Security Assistant retired in 1998
DENNIS JONES 81 died July 12 in Dallas TX The Frankfurt General Manager retired in 1986
BILLY GILES 77 died Aug 10 in Red Oak TX The HQ Computer Systems analyst retired in 1995
Antoinette (Toni) Long 79 died Sept 4 in Hampton SC The Los Angeles AFB General Manager retired in 1992
THOMAS SAVAGEAU 79 died Aug 23 in Ajijic Jalisco Mexico The HQ Associate retired in 1989
JOHN SHARP 59 died May 12 in Ovilla TX The Europe Egion Area manager retired in 2013
PAUL TAFF 90 died Aug 21 in Arlington TX The HQ Associate retired in 1983
ROBERT WILLINGHAM 84 died Sept 28 in Dallas TX The HQ Associate retired in 1993
DOUGLAS WOODHOUSE 64 died Oct 1 in Mobile AL The HQ Management Analyst retired in 2006
Pag e 20 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
WILLS ldquoFrom time to time retired associates of AAFES leave be-quests to the AREA in their will If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that pre-pares your formally written and executed will with the follow-ing sample clause If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause I give (blank dollarsproperty) to the Army Air Force Ex-change Service Retired Employees Association (AREA) PO Box 380614 Duncanville Texas 75138
Other Chapter reported deaths
George John Vomvoris legendary AAFES Food amp Services Executive (76) passed
away on November 18 2016 with his family by his side in Waxahachie Texas
Also we received news that Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur who is well known as
the first female super rate in AAFES passed away at age 88 in early November
(See eulogy on pages 21-23 by Aubrey Rembold)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Pag e 10 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Lynda Tanaka Adrienne Hamada Frank Cedeno Pauline Ung Mary Ann Asato Pat Watson and Bill Allgire
Rose Kawata Alice Suma
and Margaret Hasegawa Brave game contestants Dot Irvine Ethel Miguel
Jan and Mel Santana Ruth Shiroma Cynthia Hoag Ardell Katsura Roy Miura and Marlene Tokuhisa
Our donation to the Hawaii Foodbank
The Aloha Chapter held its annual Christmas party on Sunday 4 Dec at its perennial location -- The Pearl Country Club The Chapter has been holding its holiday function here for the past 20 years So they are like family to us by now A Prime Rib buffet luncheon was arranged with Baked Mahi Mahi Korean style BBQ Chicken with all the attending salads and veggies A total of 57 members spouses and guestsmdashwith one very special guest this year FRANK CEDENOmdashenjoyed the buffet games door prizes Christmas spirit and camaraderie Frank worked at the old PACEX HQ in the early 70s at the Queen Emma building and helped in the transition to its newer location on 919 Ala Moana Blvd An election of Officers was held with BILL ALLGIRE being elected as President LAURI SANTOS Treasurer and PAULINE UNG Secretary Seventeen $$$ door prizes were given away with the two $50 cash prizes being won by LANI AKI and ELAINE TAKAHASI Grand Prize winners of $50 were MARY ANN ASATO FRANCES SAITO MILTON SHIMIZU and ROY MIURAmdash with the final $100 Grand Prize being won by ETHEL MIGUEL -- wining more with her AAFES family than her recent trip to Vegas Everyone left with renewed energy and filled with the Christmas Spirit
Aloha ChaptermdashBill Allgire
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 11
Alamo ChaptermdashBrenda Borland
The Alamo Chapter in San Antonio has many events throughout the year Different hosts sponsor the events Our Dinner in September was held at Caparellis Restaurant and was hosted by Marilyn and Javier Cerna
Len and Rhonda Freitas James and Norma
Thompson Doris Morris
Brenda Borland and Song Choe
Tony and Ella Trevino
Bilge Cordani and
Claire Guillemette
Judy and Lee Rux Marilyn and Javier Cerna Janice and Bill Dobbs
Mike Bresnok and
Shannon Soefje
Kim Mathews and
Dan Forsch
Ruth Lown Lois Lown
and Roy Hines
Ken Limtiaco Mike and
Betty Rohrer Paula Hall Virginia and
Bob Askew
Ann and Tim Brogan
Attending but not pictured
Kathy Jackson and Mark Porter
Dix-McGuire Chapter- Fran Stanley
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
The DIX- MCGUIRE RETIREE S ASSOCIATION held its fall luncheon on September 12 2016 at a favor ite location Cracker Barrel in Bur lington New J ersey There were 50 members in attendance Everyone enjoyed catching up with for -mer co-workers friends and new acquaintances There was plenty of good food camaraderie and door prizes to go around The AREA benefits briefing conducted in June 2016 was discussed and copies of pertinent information distributed to the author-ized members Many were amazed at additional benefits available to them through their Aetna insurance Jan Terry wife of Errol Lawrence provide the group with upcoming events including an Artists Reception and a water-color class at her Art Gallery Many members have taken classes provided by Jan and find them enjoyable Eloise Thomas invited the group to take advantage and join the Browns Mills senior citizen group for adventures to places including bus trips to Atlantic City Casi-nos Honorary member and long-time customer Therese Hall celebrated her 95th birthday with the group Asked what she attributes her youthful appearance and diligent restraint to aging she replied that she comes from a family with good genes She said to do what you like but in moderation Other birthday wishes were made to Joyce Carr Earl Scott Vince Pesini and Erna Jackson Also the group was informed that Toni Long Retired Manager had passed away in South Carolina after a lengthy illness Sympa-thy cards were sent to Tonirsquos daughters on behalf of the group Several members expressed how much our card program meant to them comments were made by Peggy Forcey Vince Pesini Bob Bryant and Therese Hall Door prizes were won by Patty Puryear Fran Stanley Carrine Simms Fannie Anderson Mr Carter and Barbara Robinson and server Brittany The 5050 was won by Barbara Puryear
Pag e 12 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Kay and Vince Pisini Yoshiko
Brown and Reiko Williams
Evelyn Sprague Marianne Overhiser Katie
Barrett Edna Rock and Velma Watkins
Barbara Puryear Priscilla Parker
Patti Puryear and Glenn Parker
Arlene Cornish Sandi Grady Nedra
Harris and Barbara Robinson Fannie Anderson Welton Chase Hank
Fleming and his Guest Our 95 year old Queen of the Day
Therese Hall with Fran Stanley
Beatrice Hargrove Carrine Simms Joyce Carr and Betty OBrien
Patti Rahilly Jones
and Marie Rahilly
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 13
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Dix-McGuire Chapter - Fran Stanley
The Ft Dix-McGuire Chapter members met to celebrate Christmas at OrsquoConnerrsquos ( formally known as Charleyrsquos Other Brother) in Mt Holly New Jersey Despite the rainy day we had over 50 members and guests in attendance who enjoyed the event Holiday music was playing in the background as participants enjoyed playing trivia games for numerous gifts as well as door prizes There was plenty of good food games and gifts to go around Participants were able to choose from London Broil Chicken Parmesan or Stuff shells as their main entreacutee Each meal came with a house salad two vegetables dinner rolls coffee tea and a holiday desert This year the members were able to sign Christmas cards that were sent to for-mer members who now live outside the state or were too ill to attend The 5050 winner Richard Schmelia generously donated $25 back to the group to help send out fruit baskets to those too ill to attend The camaraderie displayed among the group reminded us how awesome it was to work for an organization that was more than a busi-ness and more like a fami-ly May God continue to bless each of you
Earl Scott Robert Bryant and Sylvia Brown William Henriquez Reyes Errol Lawrence Jane Terri Lawrence Luis Lopez
Elaine Brown Therese Hall Monica Frederick and Edna Rock
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Golden Gate ChaptermdashErnest Kodama
Golden Gate AREA Chapter held its Christmas Luncheon on December 10 at the Spinnaker Restaurant in Sausalito CA Attending the luncheon were Mary Lou Geimer George Wills Dennis Gilman Arline Gilman Lou
Vitalie Arlene Hadfield Julia Lee Joan Turner Chick Kretz Gina Kretz Toni DeBardeleben Stanlee Garriot and Ernie Kodama
Pag e 14 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Northern California Chapter ndash Ken ldquoTomrdquo Keim
We began our fall season with a luncheon meeting at Mimirsquos of Elk Grove Members and guests attending were Renate
Atkinson and daughter Deborah Margaret Belcher Edit Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Dianne Hobbs
Celia Hudson Rosa LaBoeuf Tina Minjarez Kristin Taylor Jerri Thomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Stella and Michael
Winch The group discussed possible activities for the upcoming year such as a Sacramento train ride winery tour at Apple
Hill garage sale picnic BBQ in the ark and a casino visit Members were asked to give feedback on which of these most ap-
peal to Chapter members
Our October luncheon meeting at El Tapatio was attended by the following members and guests Margaret Belcher Rosie
Boyce Edie Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Arlene Ferry and daughter Debbie Dianne Hobbs Margie
Iwamoto Ken Keim Rosa LaBoeuf Richard Mason Gloria Masse Tina Minjarez Ellen Rivera Margie Scheatzle Kristin
Taylor Jerri Toomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Lee Woodward
October November and December are the busiest time of the year The annual fall bake and used book sale was held on Octo-
ber 29 at McClellan BX The annual holiday auction was held following the regular November 9 luncheon meeting at the IHOP on Sunrise Blvd and we held our gala Christmas luncheon on December 11 at Zinfandel Grill
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 15
Gulf Coast Chapter - Jan Comstock
Super fun and exciting AAFES Retiree Christmas luncheon 62 in attendance We had a blast We had to renew our
membership and pay our $500 dues for the year We had a great raffle and also brought in can goods for the food
banks in our area A great big thank you and job well done to Steve Friend and Regina Steve Mitchell and Susan
attended both doing so much better Missed three that could not attend We had so much fun with our signsmdashfound
out we have a lot of naughty ladies They all asked for the naughty sign A big plus for me was that the group
sang Happy Birthday to me The waitress surprised me with a slice of chocolate cake with a candle and ice cream We
also recognized the other December birthday Merry Christmas
Scott Maynard Billy Hullen-der and Brenda Hullender
Olive Bobo and Marcia Watts Harville
Isabelle Good Hender-shot and Gail Golden Escobedo
See many more photos on Jan Comstockrsquos Facebook page
Jan Comstock
North Texas ChaptermdashRichard Sheff and Linda Dean
The North Texas Chapter of AREA has been busy this past quarter attending events such as the music of Johnny Cash a FREE Membership Appreciation Luncheon and a Holiday Celebration amp Gift Ex-change Please follow us on our Facebook page at North Texas Chapter of AREA to see all of the pic-tures
ldquoRing of Firerdquo at the Addison Water Tower Theatre Oct 16 ndash NTC-AREA members attended a play that
included the music of Johnny Cash After the Johnny Cash music we enjoyed dinner at BJrsquos Restaurant and
Brewhouse
Linda Dean Jerry amp Carlon Cloud
and Sarah Rabb Marilyn amp Leon Levin Doug amp Gail Olney Lina amp Chuck Poffenbarger
Membership Appreciation FREE Luncheon at Rudyrsquos BBQ Nov 3 ndash Annually the North Texas Chapter of
AREA has a FREE appreciation luncheon for members This year 103 members enjoyed barbecue at Rudyrsquos
Barbecue amp Country Store
Even with 2 serving tables the lines were long There was plenty of food for everyone
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Continued on next page
Pag e 16 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Take coverhellip Richard Sheff has a knife to cut the cake
NTC-AREA Board Meeting at HQ Nov 11 - After a NTC-AREA board meeting at HQ some of the members ran into some of the active Exchange Executives Dave Nelson and Ana Middleton From left to right Roy Robertson Jr Debbie Kliment Byerly Tom Branning Dave Nelson Richard Sheff Ana Middle-ton Jack Leavitt and Dale Linebarger
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Annual Holiday Celebration amp Gift Exchange Dec 4 ndash To celebrate the holiday season NTC-AREA members
gathered for a late luncheon at the YO Ranch Steakhouse The food was good and we had a private room for social-
izing and fun with the gift exchange
56 members attended the party at the YO Ranch Steakhouse So many pretty packages
to choose from
NTC President
Richard Sheff and
Master of Ceremo-
nies always
makes the gift ex-
change so much
fun
Bobbye Towns wearing
her Christmas gift Do you
think wersquoll see it again
next year
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos
Pat Weaver writes ldquoIf the mem-
bers want to know why their
checks are delayed this is the rea-
son The little Christmas trees are
my lsquoRed Neckrsquo trees They have
gun shells on them for lightsrdquo I
made all the ceramic pieces such
as the Santas and manger scenes
(See more photos on page 23)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 17
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith
In the summer of 1973 the Exchange transferred me from the Colorado Area Ex-change Fort Carson CO where I was the Services Operations Manager to the Okina-wa Regional Exchange as Chief of Services I was a 13 year veteran of AAFES at that time starting when I graduated High School in 1960 with the George AFB Exchange Victorville CA My first job was a Petroleum Transfer Engineer a Pump Island At-tendant for the unlearned Okinawa was our first overseas assignment and it was the first time my wife and children would fly My four year old son at the time would look up in the sky at an airplane and ask his Mother lsquoCanrsquot Daddy drive the car to Okinawarsquo We could never find the lsquobridgersquo across the Pacific so fly it was
We stopped over in Hawaii for several days to straighten out some passport issues for my family then it was on to Okinawa We landed at the lsquotail endrsquo of a Typhoon with scores of airport employees meeting the aircraft with umbrellas ushering us to a bus to take to us to the terminal Much of the Naha Airport was open to the outside in 1973 which would have been a delight except it was raining very hard with high winds John Hanson was our sponsor and met us at
the exit to Customs and welcomed us to Okinawa He and Lydie took very good care of us and helped us to acclimate ourselves to Okinawa life
It took us a few weeks to get our quarters assigned to us and with lsquoaddressrsquo and direc-tions in hand we drove to see it According to the house numbers it was an empty lot overgrown with trees and weeds 20rsquo tall After several passes searching to make sure I was not overlooking the address I was getting ready to go back to the housing office when my daughter said lsquolook Daddy I can see a roofrsquo I stopped and walked through the undergrowth to a house that appeared to have been sitting empty for a while Later that evening I told John Hanson that we found the house but it will take a little bit of work to clear the growth to where we can live in the house With the help of a lsquoPapa-sanrsquo we were able to do so quickly and settled in for life on Okinawa
While in Hawaii my children begged me to go to the beach which I refused because I told them lsquowe are going to live on an island for three years you can swim when we get therersquo However the Okinawa of 1973 is not the Okinawa of today The only beach for swimming we could find was Okuma on the Northern part of the Island The other shore line was riddled with volcanic rock which required you to wear lsquocombat bootsrsquo to walk However we loved it
The Okinawa of today 40 plus years later is much dif-ferent Pat and I were offered the opportunity to come back for three months to lsquofill inrsquo for a Missionary Pas-tor in the Church we were members of while here in the 70rsquos who needed to return to the States for that pe-riod of time We were immediately reminded lsquowe live in a different worldrsquo today than that we experienced four decades ago with the added security at airports the
enhanced visa checks customs inspectiondeclaration and when we were met with the lsquoclosedrsquo Military Installations that were open in the 1970rsquos
But the thing that had not changed is the politeness of the Japanese people We flew into Tokyo Narita Airport and had to catch a bus for the 45 minute drive to Haneda Air-port where our flight departed to Okinawa The attendants were striking with their cus-tomary bow to all who boarded the bus and we were met with this same courtesy when the bus arrived at Haneda and again when we exited the plane at Naha Okinawa In the Restaurants the stores-large and small-we have been met with this ever present polite welcome
Our hour drive from the Airport to Church apartments on the evening of our arrival introduced us to a modern Express Way ex-tending the full length of the Island and a lsquospider likersquo network of roads leading to all parts of the Islands A number of the 1970 Military Installations have been returned to the Japanese Government and replaced with lsquohigh risersquo buildings
On what used to be the Awase Golf Course is now the Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom a multistory mall that would rival any mod-ern mall we might find in the States The Express Way frequently maneuvers through tunnels carved out of the limited moun-tains on Okinawa the coral shores have been replaced with sand and beaches are plentiful as are numerous scenic drives through the countryside
Pag e 18 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Don amp Patsy Smith
I have not been able to verify the figures but I recall using population figures in the 1970rsquos of 300000 today that population exceeds 1300000 Okinawa has become Mainland Japanrsquos Hawaii resort Island
During our time here the enhanced security has required us to lsquoget a passrsquo for Pat as she does not have a CAC which I have to enter the Military Installations One of the Church members sponsored her allowing us to visit many of the Exchange Facili-ties Today Futenma Kadena Hansen Torii Schwab Foster and Kinser are the major facilities remaining on the Island
I remember in the 70rsquos sharing with my Okinawan counter parts the need for the Exchange Facilities to lsquolook like homersquo for the Americans They of course were willing to help but my Automotive Tech Rep Arkaki-san asked me lsquowhat does home look likersquo We were trying to emulate the lsquoappearancersquo of our Stateside BasePost Exchanges but knowing they would not know what they looked like I told him we need to make them look like SEARS we did not have Wal-Mart in those days
He and the others nodded and we went about working on the lsquofacadesrsquo of the scattered Service Facilities we had all over the Island On one occasion I invited lsquomy guysrsquo to our home for a cook out with homemade ice cream and Arkaki-san asked how I thought our efforts were coming along with the lsquolookrsquo as I called it I told him I was very pleased and more important so were our customers He then told me lsquoI am happy because none of us know this SEARS you talk about what does it look likersquo I learned a lesson that day lsquodonrsquot always assume your counterpart in a different country understands the word picture you are trying to sharersquo
But back to today the Exchange folks here continue with that lsquolook of homersquo approach The added franchise facilities like Chilirsquos Subway Popeyes Baskin Robbins and of course one of my favorites one of the original Exchange self-franchises Anthonyrsquos Pizza dates back to lsquomy daysrsquo
Being in a lsquoMilitaryrsquo Church I have had to opportunity to talk with many Military Families from the Air Force Army Ma-rines and Navy My lsquoMarinersquo friends will ask lsquowhy did not you list the Marines first we always arrive firstrsquo But I chose to list them alphabetically to not offend either of the branches They each are among the lsquofinestrsquo of the young men and women who serve our country I am proud to be with them even if only for a short while All I have met are lsquothrilledrsquo with the Ex-change Facilities on Okinawa In fact one Marine told me lsquoit is a touch of homersquo
So to the Exchange Family in Okinawa lsquoGreat Jobrsquo
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith (Continued)
In the News From a December 15 e-mail from Jim Henry ldquo In case you missed it Darren Woods son of Dale and Karen Woods was named today to be Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mo-bil Darren replaces Rex Tillerson who is being nominated for Secretary of State Dale and Karen hope you dont mind me bragging on Darren a little You must be awfully proud of himrdquo
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 19
IN REMEMBRANCE
ERENEO COPADA 89 Aug 20 in San Francisco CA The Presidio of San Francisco Safety and Security Assistant retired in 1998
DENNIS JONES 81 died July 12 in Dallas TX The Frankfurt General Manager retired in 1986
BILLY GILES 77 died Aug 10 in Red Oak TX The HQ Computer Systems analyst retired in 1995
Antoinette (Toni) Long 79 died Sept 4 in Hampton SC The Los Angeles AFB General Manager retired in 1992
THOMAS SAVAGEAU 79 died Aug 23 in Ajijic Jalisco Mexico The HQ Associate retired in 1989
JOHN SHARP 59 died May 12 in Ovilla TX The Europe Egion Area manager retired in 2013
PAUL TAFF 90 died Aug 21 in Arlington TX The HQ Associate retired in 1983
ROBERT WILLINGHAM 84 died Sept 28 in Dallas TX The HQ Associate retired in 1993
DOUGLAS WOODHOUSE 64 died Oct 1 in Mobile AL The HQ Management Analyst retired in 2006
Pag e 20 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
WILLS ldquoFrom time to time retired associates of AAFES leave be-quests to the AREA in their will If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that pre-pares your formally written and executed will with the follow-ing sample clause If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause I give (blank dollarsproperty) to the Army Air Force Ex-change Service Retired Employees Association (AREA) PO Box 380614 Duncanville Texas 75138
Other Chapter reported deaths
George John Vomvoris legendary AAFES Food amp Services Executive (76) passed
away on November 18 2016 with his family by his side in Waxahachie Texas
Also we received news that Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur who is well known as
the first female super rate in AAFES passed away at age 88 in early November
(See eulogy on pages 21-23 by Aubrey Rembold)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 11
Alamo ChaptermdashBrenda Borland
The Alamo Chapter in San Antonio has many events throughout the year Different hosts sponsor the events Our Dinner in September was held at Caparellis Restaurant and was hosted by Marilyn and Javier Cerna
Len and Rhonda Freitas James and Norma
Thompson Doris Morris
Brenda Borland and Song Choe
Tony and Ella Trevino
Bilge Cordani and
Claire Guillemette
Judy and Lee Rux Marilyn and Javier Cerna Janice and Bill Dobbs
Mike Bresnok and
Shannon Soefje
Kim Mathews and
Dan Forsch
Ruth Lown Lois Lown
and Roy Hines
Ken Limtiaco Mike and
Betty Rohrer Paula Hall Virginia and
Bob Askew
Ann and Tim Brogan
Attending but not pictured
Kathy Jackson and Mark Porter
Dix-McGuire Chapter- Fran Stanley
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
The DIX- MCGUIRE RETIREE S ASSOCIATION held its fall luncheon on September 12 2016 at a favor ite location Cracker Barrel in Bur lington New J ersey There were 50 members in attendance Everyone enjoyed catching up with for -mer co-workers friends and new acquaintances There was plenty of good food camaraderie and door prizes to go around The AREA benefits briefing conducted in June 2016 was discussed and copies of pertinent information distributed to the author-ized members Many were amazed at additional benefits available to them through their Aetna insurance Jan Terry wife of Errol Lawrence provide the group with upcoming events including an Artists Reception and a water-color class at her Art Gallery Many members have taken classes provided by Jan and find them enjoyable Eloise Thomas invited the group to take advantage and join the Browns Mills senior citizen group for adventures to places including bus trips to Atlantic City Casi-nos Honorary member and long-time customer Therese Hall celebrated her 95th birthday with the group Asked what she attributes her youthful appearance and diligent restraint to aging she replied that she comes from a family with good genes She said to do what you like but in moderation Other birthday wishes were made to Joyce Carr Earl Scott Vince Pesini and Erna Jackson Also the group was informed that Toni Long Retired Manager had passed away in South Carolina after a lengthy illness Sympa-thy cards were sent to Tonirsquos daughters on behalf of the group Several members expressed how much our card program meant to them comments were made by Peggy Forcey Vince Pesini Bob Bryant and Therese Hall Door prizes were won by Patty Puryear Fran Stanley Carrine Simms Fannie Anderson Mr Carter and Barbara Robinson and server Brittany The 5050 was won by Barbara Puryear
Pag e 12 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Kay and Vince Pisini Yoshiko
Brown and Reiko Williams
Evelyn Sprague Marianne Overhiser Katie
Barrett Edna Rock and Velma Watkins
Barbara Puryear Priscilla Parker
Patti Puryear and Glenn Parker
Arlene Cornish Sandi Grady Nedra
Harris and Barbara Robinson Fannie Anderson Welton Chase Hank
Fleming and his Guest Our 95 year old Queen of the Day
Therese Hall with Fran Stanley
Beatrice Hargrove Carrine Simms Joyce Carr and Betty OBrien
Patti Rahilly Jones
and Marie Rahilly
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 13
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Dix-McGuire Chapter - Fran Stanley
The Ft Dix-McGuire Chapter members met to celebrate Christmas at OrsquoConnerrsquos ( formally known as Charleyrsquos Other Brother) in Mt Holly New Jersey Despite the rainy day we had over 50 members and guests in attendance who enjoyed the event Holiday music was playing in the background as participants enjoyed playing trivia games for numerous gifts as well as door prizes There was plenty of good food games and gifts to go around Participants were able to choose from London Broil Chicken Parmesan or Stuff shells as their main entreacutee Each meal came with a house salad two vegetables dinner rolls coffee tea and a holiday desert This year the members were able to sign Christmas cards that were sent to for-mer members who now live outside the state or were too ill to attend The 5050 winner Richard Schmelia generously donated $25 back to the group to help send out fruit baskets to those too ill to attend The camaraderie displayed among the group reminded us how awesome it was to work for an organization that was more than a busi-ness and more like a fami-ly May God continue to bless each of you
Earl Scott Robert Bryant and Sylvia Brown William Henriquez Reyes Errol Lawrence Jane Terri Lawrence Luis Lopez
Elaine Brown Therese Hall Monica Frederick and Edna Rock
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Golden Gate ChaptermdashErnest Kodama
Golden Gate AREA Chapter held its Christmas Luncheon on December 10 at the Spinnaker Restaurant in Sausalito CA Attending the luncheon were Mary Lou Geimer George Wills Dennis Gilman Arline Gilman Lou
Vitalie Arlene Hadfield Julia Lee Joan Turner Chick Kretz Gina Kretz Toni DeBardeleben Stanlee Garriot and Ernie Kodama
Pag e 14 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Northern California Chapter ndash Ken ldquoTomrdquo Keim
We began our fall season with a luncheon meeting at Mimirsquos of Elk Grove Members and guests attending were Renate
Atkinson and daughter Deborah Margaret Belcher Edit Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Dianne Hobbs
Celia Hudson Rosa LaBoeuf Tina Minjarez Kristin Taylor Jerri Thomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Stella and Michael
Winch The group discussed possible activities for the upcoming year such as a Sacramento train ride winery tour at Apple
Hill garage sale picnic BBQ in the ark and a casino visit Members were asked to give feedback on which of these most ap-
peal to Chapter members
Our October luncheon meeting at El Tapatio was attended by the following members and guests Margaret Belcher Rosie
Boyce Edie Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Arlene Ferry and daughter Debbie Dianne Hobbs Margie
Iwamoto Ken Keim Rosa LaBoeuf Richard Mason Gloria Masse Tina Minjarez Ellen Rivera Margie Scheatzle Kristin
Taylor Jerri Toomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Lee Woodward
October November and December are the busiest time of the year The annual fall bake and used book sale was held on Octo-
ber 29 at McClellan BX The annual holiday auction was held following the regular November 9 luncheon meeting at the IHOP on Sunrise Blvd and we held our gala Christmas luncheon on December 11 at Zinfandel Grill
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 15
Gulf Coast Chapter - Jan Comstock
Super fun and exciting AAFES Retiree Christmas luncheon 62 in attendance We had a blast We had to renew our
membership and pay our $500 dues for the year We had a great raffle and also brought in can goods for the food
banks in our area A great big thank you and job well done to Steve Friend and Regina Steve Mitchell and Susan
attended both doing so much better Missed three that could not attend We had so much fun with our signsmdashfound
out we have a lot of naughty ladies They all asked for the naughty sign A big plus for me was that the group
sang Happy Birthday to me The waitress surprised me with a slice of chocolate cake with a candle and ice cream We
also recognized the other December birthday Merry Christmas
Scott Maynard Billy Hullen-der and Brenda Hullender
Olive Bobo and Marcia Watts Harville
Isabelle Good Hender-shot and Gail Golden Escobedo
See many more photos on Jan Comstockrsquos Facebook page
Jan Comstock
North Texas ChaptermdashRichard Sheff and Linda Dean
The North Texas Chapter of AREA has been busy this past quarter attending events such as the music of Johnny Cash a FREE Membership Appreciation Luncheon and a Holiday Celebration amp Gift Ex-change Please follow us on our Facebook page at North Texas Chapter of AREA to see all of the pic-tures
ldquoRing of Firerdquo at the Addison Water Tower Theatre Oct 16 ndash NTC-AREA members attended a play that
included the music of Johnny Cash After the Johnny Cash music we enjoyed dinner at BJrsquos Restaurant and
Brewhouse
Linda Dean Jerry amp Carlon Cloud
and Sarah Rabb Marilyn amp Leon Levin Doug amp Gail Olney Lina amp Chuck Poffenbarger
Membership Appreciation FREE Luncheon at Rudyrsquos BBQ Nov 3 ndash Annually the North Texas Chapter of
AREA has a FREE appreciation luncheon for members This year 103 members enjoyed barbecue at Rudyrsquos
Barbecue amp Country Store
Even with 2 serving tables the lines were long There was plenty of food for everyone
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Continued on next page
Pag e 16 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Take coverhellip Richard Sheff has a knife to cut the cake
NTC-AREA Board Meeting at HQ Nov 11 - After a NTC-AREA board meeting at HQ some of the members ran into some of the active Exchange Executives Dave Nelson and Ana Middleton From left to right Roy Robertson Jr Debbie Kliment Byerly Tom Branning Dave Nelson Richard Sheff Ana Middle-ton Jack Leavitt and Dale Linebarger
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Annual Holiday Celebration amp Gift Exchange Dec 4 ndash To celebrate the holiday season NTC-AREA members
gathered for a late luncheon at the YO Ranch Steakhouse The food was good and we had a private room for social-
izing and fun with the gift exchange
56 members attended the party at the YO Ranch Steakhouse So many pretty packages
to choose from
NTC President
Richard Sheff and
Master of Ceremo-
nies always
makes the gift ex-
change so much
fun
Bobbye Towns wearing
her Christmas gift Do you
think wersquoll see it again
next year
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos
Pat Weaver writes ldquoIf the mem-
bers want to know why their
checks are delayed this is the rea-
son The little Christmas trees are
my lsquoRed Neckrsquo trees They have
gun shells on them for lightsrdquo I
made all the ceramic pieces such
as the Santas and manger scenes
(See more photos on page 23)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 17
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith
In the summer of 1973 the Exchange transferred me from the Colorado Area Ex-change Fort Carson CO where I was the Services Operations Manager to the Okina-wa Regional Exchange as Chief of Services I was a 13 year veteran of AAFES at that time starting when I graduated High School in 1960 with the George AFB Exchange Victorville CA My first job was a Petroleum Transfer Engineer a Pump Island At-tendant for the unlearned Okinawa was our first overseas assignment and it was the first time my wife and children would fly My four year old son at the time would look up in the sky at an airplane and ask his Mother lsquoCanrsquot Daddy drive the car to Okinawarsquo We could never find the lsquobridgersquo across the Pacific so fly it was
We stopped over in Hawaii for several days to straighten out some passport issues for my family then it was on to Okinawa We landed at the lsquotail endrsquo of a Typhoon with scores of airport employees meeting the aircraft with umbrellas ushering us to a bus to take to us to the terminal Much of the Naha Airport was open to the outside in 1973 which would have been a delight except it was raining very hard with high winds John Hanson was our sponsor and met us at
the exit to Customs and welcomed us to Okinawa He and Lydie took very good care of us and helped us to acclimate ourselves to Okinawa life
It took us a few weeks to get our quarters assigned to us and with lsquoaddressrsquo and direc-tions in hand we drove to see it According to the house numbers it was an empty lot overgrown with trees and weeds 20rsquo tall After several passes searching to make sure I was not overlooking the address I was getting ready to go back to the housing office when my daughter said lsquolook Daddy I can see a roofrsquo I stopped and walked through the undergrowth to a house that appeared to have been sitting empty for a while Later that evening I told John Hanson that we found the house but it will take a little bit of work to clear the growth to where we can live in the house With the help of a lsquoPapa-sanrsquo we were able to do so quickly and settled in for life on Okinawa
While in Hawaii my children begged me to go to the beach which I refused because I told them lsquowe are going to live on an island for three years you can swim when we get therersquo However the Okinawa of 1973 is not the Okinawa of today The only beach for swimming we could find was Okuma on the Northern part of the Island The other shore line was riddled with volcanic rock which required you to wear lsquocombat bootsrsquo to walk However we loved it
The Okinawa of today 40 plus years later is much dif-ferent Pat and I were offered the opportunity to come back for three months to lsquofill inrsquo for a Missionary Pas-tor in the Church we were members of while here in the 70rsquos who needed to return to the States for that pe-riod of time We were immediately reminded lsquowe live in a different worldrsquo today than that we experienced four decades ago with the added security at airports the
enhanced visa checks customs inspectiondeclaration and when we were met with the lsquoclosedrsquo Military Installations that were open in the 1970rsquos
But the thing that had not changed is the politeness of the Japanese people We flew into Tokyo Narita Airport and had to catch a bus for the 45 minute drive to Haneda Air-port where our flight departed to Okinawa The attendants were striking with their cus-tomary bow to all who boarded the bus and we were met with this same courtesy when the bus arrived at Haneda and again when we exited the plane at Naha Okinawa In the Restaurants the stores-large and small-we have been met with this ever present polite welcome
Our hour drive from the Airport to Church apartments on the evening of our arrival introduced us to a modern Express Way ex-tending the full length of the Island and a lsquospider likersquo network of roads leading to all parts of the Islands A number of the 1970 Military Installations have been returned to the Japanese Government and replaced with lsquohigh risersquo buildings
On what used to be the Awase Golf Course is now the Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom a multistory mall that would rival any mod-ern mall we might find in the States The Express Way frequently maneuvers through tunnels carved out of the limited moun-tains on Okinawa the coral shores have been replaced with sand and beaches are plentiful as are numerous scenic drives through the countryside
Pag e 18 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Don amp Patsy Smith
I have not been able to verify the figures but I recall using population figures in the 1970rsquos of 300000 today that population exceeds 1300000 Okinawa has become Mainland Japanrsquos Hawaii resort Island
During our time here the enhanced security has required us to lsquoget a passrsquo for Pat as she does not have a CAC which I have to enter the Military Installations One of the Church members sponsored her allowing us to visit many of the Exchange Facili-ties Today Futenma Kadena Hansen Torii Schwab Foster and Kinser are the major facilities remaining on the Island
I remember in the 70rsquos sharing with my Okinawan counter parts the need for the Exchange Facilities to lsquolook like homersquo for the Americans They of course were willing to help but my Automotive Tech Rep Arkaki-san asked me lsquowhat does home look likersquo We were trying to emulate the lsquoappearancersquo of our Stateside BasePost Exchanges but knowing they would not know what they looked like I told him we need to make them look like SEARS we did not have Wal-Mart in those days
He and the others nodded and we went about working on the lsquofacadesrsquo of the scattered Service Facilities we had all over the Island On one occasion I invited lsquomy guysrsquo to our home for a cook out with homemade ice cream and Arkaki-san asked how I thought our efforts were coming along with the lsquolookrsquo as I called it I told him I was very pleased and more important so were our customers He then told me lsquoI am happy because none of us know this SEARS you talk about what does it look likersquo I learned a lesson that day lsquodonrsquot always assume your counterpart in a different country understands the word picture you are trying to sharersquo
But back to today the Exchange folks here continue with that lsquolook of homersquo approach The added franchise facilities like Chilirsquos Subway Popeyes Baskin Robbins and of course one of my favorites one of the original Exchange self-franchises Anthonyrsquos Pizza dates back to lsquomy daysrsquo
Being in a lsquoMilitaryrsquo Church I have had to opportunity to talk with many Military Families from the Air Force Army Ma-rines and Navy My lsquoMarinersquo friends will ask lsquowhy did not you list the Marines first we always arrive firstrsquo But I chose to list them alphabetically to not offend either of the branches They each are among the lsquofinestrsquo of the young men and women who serve our country I am proud to be with them even if only for a short while All I have met are lsquothrilledrsquo with the Ex-change Facilities on Okinawa In fact one Marine told me lsquoit is a touch of homersquo
So to the Exchange Family in Okinawa lsquoGreat Jobrsquo
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith (Continued)
In the News From a December 15 e-mail from Jim Henry ldquo In case you missed it Darren Woods son of Dale and Karen Woods was named today to be Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mo-bil Darren replaces Rex Tillerson who is being nominated for Secretary of State Dale and Karen hope you dont mind me bragging on Darren a little You must be awfully proud of himrdquo
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 19
IN REMEMBRANCE
ERENEO COPADA 89 Aug 20 in San Francisco CA The Presidio of San Francisco Safety and Security Assistant retired in 1998
DENNIS JONES 81 died July 12 in Dallas TX The Frankfurt General Manager retired in 1986
BILLY GILES 77 died Aug 10 in Red Oak TX The HQ Computer Systems analyst retired in 1995
Antoinette (Toni) Long 79 died Sept 4 in Hampton SC The Los Angeles AFB General Manager retired in 1992
THOMAS SAVAGEAU 79 died Aug 23 in Ajijic Jalisco Mexico The HQ Associate retired in 1989
JOHN SHARP 59 died May 12 in Ovilla TX The Europe Egion Area manager retired in 2013
PAUL TAFF 90 died Aug 21 in Arlington TX The HQ Associate retired in 1983
ROBERT WILLINGHAM 84 died Sept 28 in Dallas TX The HQ Associate retired in 1993
DOUGLAS WOODHOUSE 64 died Oct 1 in Mobile AL The HQ Management Analyst retired in 2006
Pag e 20 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
WILLS ldquoFrom time to time retired associates of AAFES leave be-quests to the AREA in their will If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that pre-pares your formally written and executed will with the follow-ing sample clause If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause I give (blank dollarsproperty) to the Army Air Force Ex-change Service Retired Employees Association (AREA) PO Box 380614 Duncanville Texas 75138
Other Chapter reported deaths
George John Vomvoris legendary AAFES Food amp Services Executive (76) passed
away on November 18 2016 with his family by his side in Waxahachie Texas
Also we received news that Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur who is well known as
the first female super rate in AAFES passed away at age 88 in early November
(See eulogy on pages 21-23 by Aubrey Rembold)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
Dix-McGuire Chapter- Fran Stanley
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
The DIX- MCGUIRE RETIREE S ASSOCIATION held its fall luncheon on September 12 2016 at a favor ite location Cracker Barrel in Bur lington New J ersey There were 50 members in attendance Everyone enjoyed catching up with for -mer co-workers friends and new acquaintances There was plenty of good food camaraderie and door prizes to go around The AREA benefits briefing conducted in June 2016 was discussed and copies of pertinent information distributed to the author-ized members Many were amazed at additional benefits available to them through their Aetna insurance Jan Terry wife of Errol Lawrence provide the group with upcoming events including an Artists Reception and a water-color class at her Art Gallery Many members have taken classes provided by Jan and find them enjoyable Eloise Thomas invited the group to take advantage and join the Browns Mills senior citizen group for adventures to places including bus trips to Atlantic City Casi-nos Honorary member and long-time customer Therese Hall celebrated her 95th birthday with the group Asked what she attributes her youthful appearance and diligent restraint to aging she replied that she comes from a family with good genes She said to do what you like but in moderation Other birthday wishes were made to Joyce Carr Earl Scott Vince Pesini and Erna Jackson Also the group was informed that Toni Long Retired Manager had passed away in South Carolina after a lengthy illness Sympa-thy cards were sent to Tonirsquos daughters on behalf of the group Several members expressed how much our card program meant to them comments were made by Peggy Forcey Vince Pesini Bob Bryant and Therese Hall Door prizes were won by Patty Puryear Fran Stanley Carrine Simms Fannie Anderson Mr Carter and Barbara Robinson and server Brittany The 5050 was won by Barbara Puryear
Pag e 12 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Kay and Vince Pisini Yoshiko
Brown and Reiko Williams
Evelyn Sprague Marianne Overhiser Katie
Barrett Edna Rock and Velma Watkins
Barbara Puryear Priscilla Parker
Patti Puryear and Glenn Parker
Arlene Cornish Sandi Grady Nedra
Harris and Barbara Robinson Fannie Anderson Welton Chase Hank
Fleming and his Guest Our 95 year old Queen of the Day
Therese Hall with Fran Stanley
Beatrice Hargrove Carrine Simms Joyce Carr and Betty OBrien
Patti Rahilly Jones
and Marie Rahilly
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 13
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Dix-McGuire Chapter - Fran Stanley
The Ft Dix-McGuire Chapter members met to celebrate Christmas at OrsquoConnerrsquos ( formally known as Charleyrsquos Other Brother) in Mt Holly New Jersey Despite the rainy day we had over 50 members and guests in attendance who enjoyed the event Holiday music was playing in the background as participants enjoyed playing trivia games for numerous gifts as well as door prizes There was plenty of good food games and gifts to go around Participants were able to choose from London Broil Chicken Parmesan or Stuff shells as their main entreacutee Each meal came with a house salad two vegetables dinner rolls coffee tea and a holiday desert This year the members were able to sign Christmas cards that were sent to for-mer members who now live outside the state or were too ill to attend The 5050 winner Richard Schmelia generously donated $25 back to the group to help send out fruit baskets to those too ill to attend The camaraderie displayed among the group reminded us how awesome it was to work for an organization that was more than a busi-ness and more like a fami-ly May God continue to bless each of you
Earl Scott Robert Bryant and Sylvia Brown William Henriquez Reyes Errol Lawrence Jane Terri Lawrence Luis Lopez
Elaine Brown Therese Hall Monica Frederick and Edna Rock
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Golden Gate ChaptermdashErnest Kodama
Golden Gate AREA Chapter held its Christmas Luncheon on December 10 at the Spinnaker Restaurant in Sausalito CA Attending the luncheon were Mary Lou Geimer George Wills Dennis Gilman Arline Gilman Lou
Vitalie Arlene Hadfield Julia Lee Joan Turner Chick Kretz Gina Kretz Toni DeBardeleben Stanlee Garriot and Ernie Kodama
Pag e 14 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Northern California Chapter ndash Ken ldquoTomrdquo Keim
We began our fall season with a luncheon meeting at Mimirsquos of Elk Grove Members and guests attending were Renate
Atkinson and daughter Deborah Margaret Belcher Edit Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Dianne Hobbs
Celia Hudson Rosa LaBoeuf Tina Minjarez Kristin Taylor Jerri Thomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Stella and Michael
Winch The group discussed possible activities for the upcoming year such as a Sacramento train ride winery tour at Apple
Hill garage sale picnic BBQ in the ark and a casino visit Members were asked to give feedback on which of these most ap-
peal to Chapter members
Our October luncheon meeting at El Tapatio was attended by the following members and guests Margaret Belcher Rosie
Boyce Edie Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Arlene Ferry and daughter Debbie Dianne Hobbs Margie
Iwamoto Ken Keim Rosa LaBoeuf Richard Mason Gloria Masse Tina Minjarez Ellen Rivera Margie Scheatzle Kristin
Taylor Jerri Toomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Lee Woodward
October November and December are the busiest time of the year The annual fall bake and used book sale was held on Octo-
ber 29 at McClellan BX The annual holiday auction was held following the regular November 9 luncheon meeting at the IHOP on Sunrise Blvd and we held our gala Christmas luncheon on December 11 at Zinfandel Grill
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 15
Gulf Coast Chapter - Jan Comstock
Super fun and exciting AAFES Retiree Christmas luncheon 62 in attendance We had a blast We had to renew our
membership and pay our $500 dues for the year We had a great raffle and also brought in can goods for the food
banks in our area A great big thank you and job well done to Steve Friend and Regina Steve Mitchell and Susan
attended both doing so much better Missed three that could not attend We had so much fun with our signsmdashfound
out we have a lot of naughty ladies They all asked for the naughty sign A big plus for me was that the group
sang Happy Birthday to me The waitress surprised me with a slice of chocolate cake with a candle and ice cream We
also recognized the other December birthday Merry Christmas
Scott Maynard Billy Hullen-der and Brenda Hullender
Olive Bobo and Marcia Watts Harville
Isabelle Good Hender-shot and Gail Golden Escobedo
See many more photos on Jan Comstockrsquos Facebook page
Jan Comstock
North Texas ChaptermdashRichard Sheff and Linda Dean
The North Texas Chapter of AREA has been busy this past quarter attending events such as the music of Johnny Cash a FREE Membership Appreciation Luncheon and a Holiday Celebration amp Gift Ex-change Please follow us on our Facebook page at North Texas Chapter of AREA to see all of the pic-tures
ldquoRing of Firerdquo at the Addison Water Tower Theatre Oct 16 ndash NTC-AREA members attended a play that
included the music of Johnny Cash After the Johnny Cash music we enjoyed dinner at BJrsquos Restaurant and
Brewhouse
Linda Dean Jerry amp Carlon Cloud
and Sarah Rabb Marilyn amp Leon Levin Doug amp Gail Olney Lina amp Chuck Poffenbarger
Membership Appreciation FREE Luncheon at Rudyrsquos BBQ Nov 3 ndash Annually the North Texas Chapter of
AREA has a FREE appreciation luncheon for members This year 103 members enjoyed barbecue at Rudyrsquos
Barbecue amp Country Store
Even with 2 serving tables the lines were long There was plenty of food for everyone
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Continued on next page
Pag e 16 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Take coverhellip Richard Sheff has a knife to cut the cake
NTC-AREA Board Meeting at HQ Nov 11 - After a NTC-AREA board meeting at HQ some of the members ran into some of the active Exchange Executives Dave Nelson and Ana Middleton From left to right Roy Robertson Jr Debbie Kliment Byerly Tom Branning Dave Nelson Richard Sheff Ana Middle-ton Jack Leavitt and Dale Linebarger
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Annual Holiday Celebration amp Gift Exchange Dec 4 ndash To celebrate the holiday season NTC-AREA members
gathered for a late luncheon at the YO Ranch Steakhouse The food was good and we had a private room for social-
izing and fun with the gift exchange
56 members attended the party at the YO Ranch Steakhouse So many pretty packages
to choose from
NTC President
Richard Sheff and
Master of Ceremo-
nies always
makes the gift ex-
change so much
fun
Bobbye Towns wearing
her Christmas gift Do you
think wersquoll see it again
next year
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos
Pat Weaver writes ldquoIf the mem-
bers want to know why their
checks are delayed this is the rea-
son The little Christmas trees are
my lsquoRed Neckrsquo trees They have
gun shells on them for lightsrdquo I
made all the ceramic pieces such
as the Santas and manger scenes
(See more photos on page 23)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 17
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith
In the summer of 1973 the Exchange transferred me from the Colorado Area Ex-change Fort Carson CO where I was the Services Operations Manager to the Okina-wa Regional Exchange as Chief of Services I was a 13 year veteran of AAFES at that time starting when I graduated High School in 1960 with the George AFB Exchange Victorville CA My first job was a Petroleum Transfer Engineer a Pump Island At-tendant for the unlearned Okinawa was our first overseas assignment and it was the first time my wife and children would fly My four year old son at the time would look up in the sky at an airplane and ask his Mother lsquoCanrsquot Daddy drive the car to Okinawarsquo We could never find the lsquobridgersquo across the Pacific so fly it was
We stopped over in Hawaii for several days to straighten out some passport issues for my family then it was on to Okinawa We landed at the lsquotail endrsquo of a Typhoon with scores of airport employees meeting the aircraft with umbrellas ushering us to a bus to take to us to the terminal Much of the Naha Airport was open to the outside in 1973 which would have been a delight except it was raining very hard with high winds John Hanson was our sponsor and met us at
the exit to Customs and welcomed us to Okinawa He and Lydie took very good care of us and helped us to acclimate ourselves to Okinawa life
It took us a few weeks to get our quarters assigned to us and with lsquoaddressrsquo and direc-tions in hand we drove to see it According to the house numbers it was an empty lot overgrown with trees and weeds 20rsquo tall After several passes searching to make sure I was not overlooking the address I was getting ready to go back to the housing office when my daughter said lsquolook Daddy I can see a roofrsquo I stopped and walked through the undergrowth to a house that appeared to have been sitting empty for a while Later that evening I told John Hanson that we found the house but it will take a little bit of work to clear the growth to where we can live in the house With the help of a lsquoPapa-sanrsquo we were able to do so quickly and settled in for life on Okinawa
While in Hawaii my children begged me to go to the beach which I refused because I told them lsquowe are going to live on an island for three years you can swim when we get therersquo However the Okinawa of 1973 is not the Okinawa of today The only beach for swimming we could find was Okuma on the Northern part of the Island The other shore line was riddled with volcanic rock which required you to wear lsquocombat bootsrsquo to walk However we loved it
The Okinawa of today 40 plus years later is much dif-ferent Pat and I were offered the opportunity to come back for three months to lsquofill inrsquo for a Missionary Pas-tor in the Church we were members of while here in the 70rsquos who needed to return to the States for that pe-riod of time We were immediately reminded lsquowe live in a different worldrsquo today than that we experienced four decades ago with the added security at airports the
enhanced visa checks customs inspectiondeclaration and when we were met with the lsquoclosedrsquo Military Installations that were open in the 1970rsquos
But the thing that had not changed is the politeness of the Japanese people We flew into Tokyo Narita Airport and had to catch a bus for the 45 minute drive to Haneda Air-port where our flight departed to Okinawa The attendants were striking with their cus-tomary bow to all who boarded the bus and we were met with this same courtesy when the bus arrived at Haneda and again when we exited the plane at Naha Okinawa In the Restaurants the stores-large and small-we have been met with this ever present polite welcome
Our hour drive from the Airport to Church apartments on the evening of our arrival introduced us to a modern Express Way ex-tending the full length of the Island and a lsquospider likersquo network of roads leading to all parts of the Islands A number of the 1970 Military Installations have been returned to the Japanese Government and replaced with lsquohigh risersquo buildings
On what used to be the Awase Golf Course is now the Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom a multistory mall that would rival any mod-ern mall we might find in the States The Express Way frequently maneuvers through tunnels carved out of the limited moun-tains on Okinawa the coral shores have been replaced with sand and beaches are plentiful as are numerous scenic drives through the countryside
Pag e 18 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Don amp Patsy Smith
I have not been able to verify the figures but I recall using population figures in the 1970rsquos of 300000 today that population exceeds 1300000 Okinawa has become Mainland Japanrsquos Hawaii resort Island
During our time here the enhanced security has required us to lsquoget a passrsquo for Pat as she does not have a CAC which I have to enter the Military Installations One of the Church members sponsored her allowing us to visit many of the Exchange Facili-ties Today Futenma Kadena Hansen Torii Schwab Foster and Kinser are the major facilities remaining on the Island
I remember in the 70rsquos sharing with my Okinawan counter parts the need for the Exchange Facilities to lsquolook like homersquo for the Americans They of course were willing to help but my Automotive Tech Rep Arkaki-san asked me lsquowhat does home look likersquo We were trying to emulate the lsquoappearancersquo of our Stateside BasePost Exchanges but knowing they would not know what they looked like I told him we need to make them look like SEARS we did not have Wal-Mart in those days
He and the others nodded and we went about working on the lsquofacadesrsquo of the scattered Service Facilities we had all over the Island On one occasion I invited lsquomy guysrsquo to our home for a cook out with homemade ice cream and Arkaki-san asked how I thought our efforts were coming along with the lsquolookrsquo as I called it I told him I was very pleased and more important so were our customers He then told me lsquoI am happy because none of us know this SEARS you talk about what does it look likersquo I learned a lesson that day lsquodonrsquot always assume your counterpart in a different country understands the word picture you are trying to sharersquo
But back to today the Exchange folks here continue with that lsquolook of homersquo approach The added franchise facilities like Chilirsquos Subway Popeyes Baskin Robbins and of course one of my favorites one of the original Exchange self-franchises Anthonyrsquos Pizza dates back to lsquomy daysrsquo
Being in a lsquoMilitaryrsquo Church I have had to opportunity to talk with many Military Families from the Air Force Army Ma-rines and Navy My lsquoMarinersquo friends will ask lsquowhy did not you list the Marines first we always arrive firstrsquo But I chose to list them alphabetically to not offend either of the branches They each are among the lsquofinestrsquo of the young men and women who serve our country I am proud to be with them even if only for a short while All I have met are lsquothrilledrsquo with the Ex-change Facilities on Okinawa In fact one Marine told me lsquoit is a touch of homersquo
So to the Exchange Family in Okinawa lsquoGreat Jobrsquo
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith (Continued)
In the News From a December 15 e-mail from Jim Henry ldquo In case you missed it Darren Woods son of Dale and Karen Woods was named today to be Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mo-bil Darren replaces Rex Tillerson who is being nominated for Secretary of State Dale and Karen hope you dont mind me bragging on Darren a little You must be awfully proud of himrdquo
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 19
IN REMEMBRANCE
ERENEO COPADA 89 Aug 20 in San Francisco CA The Presidio of San Francisco Safety and Security Assistant retired in 1998
DENNIS JONES 81 died July 12 in Dallas TX The Frankfurt General Manager retired in 1986
BILLY GILES 77 died Aug 10 in Red Oak TX The HQ Computer Systems analyst retired in 1995
Antoinette (Toni) Long 79 died Sept 4 in Hampton SC The Los Angeles AFB General Manager retired in 1992
THOMAS SAVAGEAU 79 died Aug 23 in Ajijic Jalisco Mexico The HQ Associate retired in 1989
JOHN SHARP 59 died May 12 in Ovilla TX The Europe Egion Area manager retired in 2013
PAUL TAFF 90 died Aug 21 in Arlington TX The HQ Associate retired in 1983
ROBERT WILLINGHAM 84 died Sept 28 in Dallas TX The HQ Associate retired in 1993
DOUGLAS WOODHOUSE 64 died Oct 1 in Mobile AL The HQ Management Analyst retired in 2006
Pag e 20 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
WILLS ldquoFrom time to time retired associates of AAFES leave be-quests to the AREA in their will If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that pre-pares your formally written and executed will with the follow-ing sample clause If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause I give (blank dollarsproperty) to the Army Air Force Ex-change Service Retired Employees Association (AREA) PO Box 380614 Duncanville Texas 75138
Other Chapter reported deaths
George John Vomvoris legendary AAFES Food amp Services Executive (76) passed
away on November 18 2016 with his family by his side in Waxahachie Texas
Also we received news that Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur who is well known as
the first female super rate in AAFES passed away at age 88 in early November
(See eulogy on pages 21-23 by Aubrey Rembold)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 13
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Dix-McGuire Chapter - Fran Stanley
The Ft Dix-McGuire Chapter members met to celebrate Christmas at OrsquoConnerrsquos ( formally known as Charleyrsquos Other Brother) in Mt Holly New Jersey Despite the rainy day we had over 50 members and guests in attendance who enjoyed the event Holiday music was playing in the background as participants enjoyed playing trivia games for numerous gifts as well as door prizes There was plenty of good food games and gifts to go around Participants were able to choose from London Broil Chicken Parmesan or Stuff shells as their main entreacutee Each meal came with a house salad two vegetables dinner rolls coffee tea and a holiday desert This year the members were able to sign Christmas cards that were sent to for-mer members who now live outside the state or were too ill to attend The 5050 winner Richard Schmelia generously donated $25 back to the group to help send out fruit baskets to those too ill to attend The camaraderie displayed among the group reminded us how awesome it was to work for an organization that was more than a busi-ness and more like a fami-ly May God continue to bless each of you
Earl Scott Robert Bryant and Sylvia Brown William Henriquez Reyes Errol Lawrence Jane Terri Lawrence Luis Lopez
Elaine Brown Therese Hall Monica Frederick and Edna Rock
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Golden Gate ChaptermdashErnest Kodama
Golden Gate AREA Chapter held its Christmas Luncheon on December 10 at the Spinnaker Restaurant in Sausalito CA Attending the luncheon were Mary Lou Geimer George Wills Dennis Gilman Arline Gilman Lou
Vitalie Arlene Hadfield Julia Lee Joan Turner Chick Kretz Gina Kretz Toni DeBardeleben Stanlee Garriot and Ernie Kodama
Pag e 14 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Northern California Chapter ndash Ken ldquoTomrdquo Keim
We began our fall season with a luncheon meeting at Mimirsquos of Elk Grove Members and guests attending were Renate
Atkinson and daughter Deborah Margaret Belcher Edit Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Dianne Hobbs
Celia Hudson Rosa LaBoeuf Tina Minjarez Kristin Taylor Jerri Thomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Stella and Michael
Winch The group discussed possible activities for the upcoming year such as a Sacramento train ride winery tour at Apple
Hill garage sale picnic BBQ in the ark and a casino visit Members were asked to give feedback on which of these most ap-
peal to Chapter members
Our October luncheon meeting at El Tapatio was attended by the following members and guests Margaret Belcher Rosie
Boyce Edie Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Arlene Ferry and daughter Debbie Dianne Hobbs Margie
Iwamoto Ken Keim Rosa LaBoeuf Richard Mason Gloria Masse Tina Minjarez Ellen Rivera Margie Scheatzle Kristin
Taylor Jerri Toomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Lee Woodward
October November and December are the busiest time of the year The annual fall bake and used book sale was held on Octo-
ber 29 at McClellan BX The annual holiday auction was held following the regular November 9 luncheon meeting at the IHOP on Sunrise Blvd and we held our gala Christmas luncheon on December 11 at Zinfandel Grill
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 15
Gulf Coast Chapter - Jan Comstock
Super fun and exciting AAFES Retiree Christmas luncheon 62 in attendance We had a blast We had to renew our
membership and pay our $500 dues for the year We had a great raffle and also brought in can goods for the food
banks in our area A great big thank you and job well done to Steve Friend and Regina Steve Mitchell and Susan
attended both doing so much better Missed three that could not attend We had so much fun with our signsmdashfound
out we have a lot of naughty ladies They all asked for the naughty sign A big plus for me was that the group
sang Happy Birthday to me The waitress surprised me with a slice of chocolate cake with a candle and ice cream We
also recognized the other December birthday Merry Christmas
Scott Maynard Billy Hullen-der and Brenda Hullender
Olive Bobo and Marcia Watts Harville
Isabelle Good Hender-shot and Gail Golden Escobedo
See many more photos on Jan Comstockrsquos Facebook page
Jan Comstock
North Texas ChaptermdashRichard Sheff and Linda Dean
The North Texas Chapter of AREA has been busy this past quarter attending events such as the music of Johnny Cash a FREE Membership Appreciation Luncheon and a Holiday Celebration amp Gift Ex-change Please follow us on our Facebook page at North Texas Chapter of AREA to see all of the pic-tures
ldquoRing of Firerdquo at the Addison Water Tower Theatre Oct 16 ndash NTC-AREA members attended a play that
included the music of Johnny Cash After the Johnny Cash music we enjoyed dinner at BJrsquos Restaurant and
Brewhouse
Linda Dean Jerry amp Carlon Cloud
and Sarah Rabb Marilyn amp Leon Levin Doug amp Gail Olney Lina amp Chuck Poffenbarger
Membership Appreciation FREE Luncheon at Rudyrsquos BBQ Nov 3 ndash Annually the North Texas Chapter of
AREA has a FREE appreciation luncheon for members This year 103 members enjoyed barbecue at Rudyrsquos
Barbecue amp Country Store
Even with 2 serving tables the lines were long There was plenty of food for everyone
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Continued on next page
Pag e 16 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Take coverhellip Richard Sheff has a knife to cut the cake
NTC-AREA Board Meeting at HQ Nov 11 - After a NTC-AREA board meeting at HQ some of the members ran into some of the active Exchange Executives Dave Nelson and Ana Middleton From left to right Roy Robertson Jr Debbie Kliment Byerly Tom Branning Dave Nelson Richard Sheff Ana Middle-ton Jack Leavitt and Dale Linebarger
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Annual Holiday Celebration amp Gift Exchange Dec 4 ndash To celebrate the holiday season NTC-AREA members
gathered for a late luncheon at the YO Ranch Steakhouse The food was good and we had a private room for social-
izing and fun with the gift exchange
56 members attended the party at the YO Ranch Steakhouse So many pretty packages
to choose from
NTC President
Richard Sheff and
Master of Ceremo-
nies always
makes the gift ex-
change so much
fun
Bobbye Towns wearing
her Christmas gift Do you
think wersquoll see it again
next year
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos
Pat Weaver writes ldquoIf the mem-
bers want to know why their
checks are delayed this is the rea-
son The little Christmas trees are
my lsquoRed Neckrsquo trees They have
gun shells on them for lightsrdquo I
made all the ceramic pieces such
as the Santas and manger scenes
(See more photos on page 23)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 17
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith
In the summer of 1973 the Exchange transferred me from the Colorado Area Ex-change Fort Carson CO where I was the Services Operations Manager to the Okina-wa Regional Exchange as Chief of Services I was a 13 year veteran of AAFES at that time starting when I graduated High School in 1960 with the George AFB Exchange Victorville CA My first job was a Petroleum Transfer Engineer a Pump Island At-tendant for the unlearned Okinawa was our first overseas assignment and it was the first time my wife and children would fly My four year old son at the time would look up in the sky at an airplane and ask his Mother lsquoCanrsquot Daddy drive the car to Okinawarsquo We could never find the lsquobridgersquo across the Pacific so fly it was
We stopped over in Hawaii for several days to straighten out some passport issues for my family then it was on to Okinawa We landed at the lsquotail endrsquo of a Typhoon with scores of airport employees meeting the aircraft with umbrellas ushering us to a bus to take to us to the terminal Much of the Naha Airport was open to the outside in 1973 which would have been a delight except it was raining very hard with high winds John Hanson was our sponsor and met us at
the exit to Customs and welcomed us to Okinawa He and Lydie took very good care of us and helped us to acclimate ourselves to Okinawa life
It took us a few weeks to get our quarters assigned to us and with lsquoaddressrsquo and direc-tions in hand we drove to see it According to the house numbers it was an empty lot overgrown with trees and weeds 20rsquo tall After several passes searching to make sure I was not overlooking the address I was getting ready to go back to the housing office when my daughter said lsquolook Daddy I can see a roofrsquo I stopped and walked through the undergrowth to a house that appeared to have been sitting empty for a while Later that evening I told John Hanson that we found the house but it will take a little bit of work to clear the growth to where we can live in the house With the help of a lsquoPapa-sanrsquo we were able to do so quickly and settled in for life on Okinawa
While in Hawaii my children begged me to go to the beach which I refused because I told them lsquowe are going to live on an island for three years you can swim when we get therersquo However the Okinawa of 1973 is not the Okinawa of today The only beach for swimming we could find was Okuma on the Northern part of the Island The other shore line was riddled with volcanic rock which required you to wear lsquocombat bootsrsquo to walk However we loved it
The Okinawa of today 40 plus years later is much dif-ferent Pat and I were offered the opportunity to come back for three months to lsquofill inrsquo for a Missionary Pas-tor in the Church we were members of while here in the 70rsquos who needed to return to the States for that pe-riod of time We were immediately reminded lsquowe live in a different worldrsquo today than that we experienced four decades ago with the added security at airports the
enhanced visa checks customs inspectiondeclaration and when we were met with the lsquoclosedrsquo Military Installations that were open in the 1970rsquos
But the thing that had not changed is the politeness of the Japanese people We flew into Tokyo Narita Airport and had to catch a bus for the 45 minute drive to Haneda Air-port where our flight departed to Okinawa The attendants were striking with their cus-tomary bow to all who boarded the bus and we were met with this same courtesy when the bus arrived at Haneda and again when we exited the plane at Naha Okinawa In the Restaurants the stores-large and small-we have been met with this ever present polite welcome
Our hour drive from the Airport to Church apartments on the evening of our arrival introduced us to a modern Express Way ex-tending the full length of the Island and a lsquospider likersquo network of roads leading to all parts of the Islands A number of the 1970 Military Installations have been returned to the Japanese Government and replaced with lsquohigh risersquo buildings
On what used to be the Awase Golf Course is now the Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom a multistory mall that would rival any mod-ern mall we might find in the States The Express Way frequently maneuvers through tunnels carved out of the limited moun-tains on Okinawa the coral shores have been replaced with sand and beaches are plentiful as are numerous scenic drives through the countryside
Pag e 18 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Don amp Patsy Smith
I have not been able to verify the figures but I recall using population figures in the 1970rsquos of 300000 today that population exceeds 1300000 Okinawa has become Mainland Japanrsquos Hawaii resort Island
During our time here the enhanced security has required us to lsquoget a passrsquo for Pat as she does not have a CAC which I have to enter the Military Installations One of the Church members sponsored her allowing us to visit many of the Exchange Facili-ties Today Futenma Kadena Hansen Torii Schwab Foster and Kinser are the major facilities remaining on the Island
I remember in the 70rsquos sharing with my Okinawan counter parts the need for the Exchange Facilities to lsquolook like homersquo for the Americans They of course were willing to help but my Automotive Tech Rep Arkaki-san asked me lsquowhat does home look likersquo We were trying to emulate the lsquoappearancersquo of our Stateside BasePost Exchanges but knowing they would not know what they looked like I told him we need to make them look like SEARS we did not have Wal-Mart in those days
He and the others nodded and we went about working on the lsquofacadesrsquo of the scattered Service Facilities we had all over the Island On one occasion I invited lsquomy guysrsquo to our home for a cook out with homemade ice cream and Arkaki-san asked how I thought our efforts were coming along with the lsquolookrsquo as I called it I told him I was very pleased and more important so were our customers He then told me lsquoI am happy because none of us know this SEARS you talk about what does it look likersquo I learned a lesson that day lsquodonrsquot always assume your counterpart in a different country understands the word picture you are trying to sharersquo
But back to today the Exchange folks here continue with that lsquolook of homersquo approach The added franchise facilities like Chilirsquos Subway Popeyes Baskin Robbins and of course one of my favorites one of the original Exchange self-franchises Anthonyrsquos Pizza dates back to lsquomy daysrsquo
Being in a lsquoMilitaryrsquo Church I have had to opportunity to talk with many Military Families from the Air Force Army Ma-rines and Navy My lsquoMarinersquo friends will ask lsquowhy did not you list the Marines first we always arrive firstrsquo But I chose to list them alphabetically to not offend either of the branches They each are among the lsquofinestrsquo of the young men and women who serve our country I am proud to be with them even if only for a short while All I have met are lsquothrilledrsquo with the Ex-change Facilities on Okinawa In fact one Marine told me lsquoit is a touch of homersquo
So to the Exchange Family in Okinawa lsquoGreat Jobrsquo
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith (Continued)
In the News From a December 15 e-mail from Jim Henry ldquo In case you missed it Darren Woods son of Dale and Karen Woods was named today to be Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mo-bil Darren replaces Rex Tillerson who is being nominated for Secretary of State Dale and Karen hope you dont mind me bragging on Darren a little You must be awfully proud of himrdquo
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 19
IN REMEMBRANCE
ERENEO COPADA 89 Aug 20 in San Francisco CA The Presidio of San Francisco Safety and Security Assistant retired in 1998
DENNIS JONES 81 died July 12 in Dallas TX The Frankfurt General Manager retired in 1986
BILLY GILES 77 died Aug 10 in Red Oak TX The HQ Computer Systems analyst retired in 1995
Antoinette (Toni) Long 79 died Sept 4 in Hampton SC The Los Angeles AFB General Manager retired in 1992
THOMAS SAVAGEAU 79 died Aug 23 in Ajijic Jalisco Mexico The HQ Associate retired in 1989
JOHN SHARP 59 died May 12 in Ovilla TX The Europe Egion Area manager retired in 2013
PAUL TAFF 90 died Aug 21 in Arlington TX The HQ Associate retired in 1983
ROBERT WILLINGHAM 84 died Sept 28 in Dallas TX The HQ Associate retired in 1993
DOUGLAS WOODHOUSE 64 died Oct 1 in Mobile AL The HQ Management Analyst retired in 2006
Pag e 20 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
WILLS ldquoFrom time to time retired associates of AAFES leave be-quests to the AREA in their will If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that pre-pares your formally written and executed will with the follow-ing sample clause If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause I give (blank dollarsproperty) to the Army Air Force Ex-change Service Retired Employees Association (AREA) PO Box 380614 Duncanville Texas 75138
Other Chapter reported deaths
George John Vomvoris legendary AAFES Food amp Services Executive (76) passed
away on November 18 2016 with his family by his side in Waxahachie Texas
Also we received news that Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur who is well known as
the first female super rate in AAFES passed away at age 88 in early November
(See eulogy on pages 21-23 by Aubrey Rembold)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Golden Gate ChaptermdashErnest Kodama
Golden Gate AREA Chapter held its Christmas Luncheon on December 10 at the Spinnaker Restaurant in Sausalito CA Attending the luncheon were Mary Lou Geimer George Wills Dennis Gilman Arline Gilman Lou
Vitalie Arlene Hadfield Julia Lee Joan Turner Chick Kretz Gina Kretz Toni DeBardeleben Stanlee Garriot and Ernie Kodama
Pag e 14 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Northern California Chapter ndash Ken ldquoTomrdquo Keim
We began our fall season with a luncheon meeting at Mimirsquos of Elk Grove Members and guests attending were Renate
Atkinson and daughter Deborah Margaret Belcher Edit Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Dianne Hobbs
Celia Hudson Rosa LaBoeuf Tina Minjarez Kristin Taylor Jerri Thomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Stella and Michael
Winch The group discussed possible activities for the upcoming year such as a Sacramento train ride winery tour at Apple
Hill garage sale picnic BBQ in the ark and a casino visit Members were asked to give feedback on which of these most ap-
peal to Chapter members
Our October luncheon meeting at El Tapatio was attended by the following members and guests Margaret Belcher Rosie
Boyce Edie Butler Yaeko Cooper Lisa Denny Maureen Dobert Arlene Ferry and daughter Debbie Dianne Hobbs Margie
Iwamoto Ken Keim Rosa LaBoeuf Richard Mason Gloria Masse Tina Minjarez Ellen Rivera Margie Scheatzle Kristin
Taylor Jerri Toomas Fatma and Jerry Thomason and Lee Woodward
October November and December are the busiest time of the year The annual fall bake and used book sale was held on Octo-
ber 29 at McClellan BX The annual holiday auction was held following the regular November 9 luncheon meeting at the IHOP on Sunrise Blvd and we held our gala Christmas luncheon on December 11 at Zinfandel Grill
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 15
Gulf Coast Chapter - Jan Comstock
Super fun and exciting AAFES Retiree Christmas luncheon 62 in attendance We had a blast We had to renew our
membership and pay our $500 dues for the year We had a great raffle and also brought in can goods for the food
banks in our area A great big thank you and job well done to Steve Friend and Regina Steve Mitchell and Susan
attended both doing so much better Missed three that could not attend We had so much fun with our signsmdashfound
out we have a lot of naughty ladies They all asked for the naughty sign A big plus for me was that the group
sang Happy Birthday to me The waitress surprised me with a slice of chocolate cake with a candle and ice cream We
also recognized the other December birthday Merry Christmas
Scott Maynard Billy Hullen-der and Brenda Hullender
Olive Bobo and Marcia Watts Harville
Isabelle Good Hender-shot and Gail Golden Escobedo
See many more photos on Jan Comstockrsquos Facebook page
Jan Comstock
North Texas ChaptermdashRichard Sheff and Linda Dean
The North Texas Chapter of AREA has been busy this past quarter attending events such as the music of Johnny Cash a FREE Membership Appreciation Luncheon and a Holiday Celebration amp Gift Ex-change Please follow us on our Facebook page at North Texas Chapter of AREA to see all of the pic-tures
ldquoRing of Firerdquo at the Addison Water Tower Theatre Oct 16 ndash NTC-AREA members attended a play that
included the music of Johnny Cash After the Johnny Cash music we enjoyed dinner at BJrsquos Restaurant and
Brewhouse
Linda Dean Jerry amp Carlon Cloud
and Sarah Rabb Marilyn amp Leon Levin Doug amp Gail Olney Lina amp Chuck Poffenbarger
Membership Appreciation FREE Luncheon at Rudyrsquos BBQ Nov 3 ndash Annually the North Texas Chapter of
AREA has a FREE appreciation luncheon for members This year 103 members enjoyed barbecue at Rudyrsquos
Barbecue amp Country Store
Even with 2 serving tables the lines were long There was plenty of food for everyone
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Continued on next page
Pag e 16 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Take coverhellip Richard Sheff has a knife to cut the cake
NTC-AREA Board Meeting at HQ Nov 11 - After a NTC-AREA board meeting at HQ some of the members ran into some of the active Exchange Executives Dave Nelson and Ana Middleton From left to right Roy Robertson Jr Debbie Kliment Byerly Tom Branning Dave Nelson Richard Sheff Ana Middle-ton Jack Leavitt and Dale Linebarger
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Annual Holiday Celebration amp Gift Exchange Dec 4 ndash To celebrate the holiday season NTC-AREA members
gathered for a late luncheon at the YO Ranch Steakhouse The food was good and we had a private room for social-
izing and fun with the gift exchange
56 members attended the party at the YO Ranch Steakhouse So many pretty packages
to choose from
NTC President
Richard Sheff and
Master of Ceremo-
nies always
makes the gift ex-
change so much
fun
Bobbye Towns wearing
her Christmas gift Do you
think wersquoll see it again
next year
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos
Pat Weaver writes ldquoIf the mem-
bers want to know why their
checks are delayed this is the rea-
son The little Christmas trees are
my lsquoRed Neckrsquo trees They have
gun shells on them for lightsrdquo I
made all the ceramic pieces such
as the Santas and manger scenes
(See more photos on page 23)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 17
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith
In the summer of 1973 the Exchange transferred me from the Colorado Area Ex-change Fort Carson CO where I was the Services Operations Manager to the Okina-wa Regional Exchange as Chief of Services I was a 13 year veteran of AAFES at that time starting when I graduated High School in 1960 with the George AFB Exchange Victorville CA My first job was a Petroleum Transfer Engineer a Pump Island At-tendant for the unlearned Okinawa was our first overseas assignment and it was the first time my wife and children would fly My four year old son at the time would look up in the sky at an airplane and ask his Mother lsquoCanrsquot Daddy drive the car to Okinawarsquo We could never find the lsquobridgersquo across the Pacific so fly it was
We stopped over in Hawaii for several days to straighten out some passport issues for my family then it was on to Okinawa We landed at the lsquotail endrsquo of a Typhoon with scores of airport employees meeting the aircraft with umbrellas ushering us to a bus to take to us to the terminal Much of the Naha Airport was open to the outside in 1973 which would have been a delight except it was raining very hard with high winds John Hanson was our sponsor and met us at
the exit to Customs and welcomed us to Okinawa He and Lydie took very good care of us and helped us to acclimate ourselves to Okinawa life
It took us a few weeks to get our quarters assigned to us and with lsquoaddressrsquo and direc-tions in hand we drove to see it According to the house numbers it was an empty lot overgrown with trees and weeds 20rsquo tall After several passes searching to make sure I was not overlooking the address I was getting ready to go back to the housing office when my daughter said lsquolook Daddy I can see a roofrsquo I stopped and walked through the undergrowth to a house that appeared to have been sitting empty for a while Later that evening I told John Hanson that we found the house but it will take a little bit of work to clear the growth to where we can live in the house With the help of a lsquoPapa-sanrsquo we were able to do so quickly and settled in for life on Okinawa
While in Hawaii my children begged me to go to the beach which I refused because I told them lsquowe are going to live on an island for three years you can swim when we get therersquo However the Okinawa of 1973 is not the Okinawa of today The only beach for swimming we could find was Okuma on the Northern part of the Island The other shore line was riddled with volcanic rock which required you to wear lsquocombat bootsrsquo to walk However we loved it
The Okinawa of today 40 plus years later is much dif-ferent Pat and I were offered the opportunity to come back for three months to lsquofill inrsquo for a Missionary Pas-tor in the Church we were members of while here in the 70rsquos who needed to return to the States for that pe-riod of time We were immediately reminded lsquowe live in a different worldrsquo today than that we experienced four decades ago with the added security at airports the
enhanced visa checks customs inspectiondeclaration and when we were met with the lsquoclosedrsquo Military Installations that were open in the 1970rsquos
But the thing that had not changed is the politeness of the Japanese people We flew into Tokyo Narita Airport and had to catch a bus for the 45 minute drive to Haneda Air-port where our flight departed to Okinawa The attendants were striking with their cus-tomary bow to all who boarded the bus and we were met with this same courtesy when the bus arrived at Haneda and again when we exited the plane at Naha Okinawa In the Restaurants the stores-large and small-we have been met with this ever present polite welcome
Our hour drive from the Airport to Church apartments on the evening of our arrival introduced us to a modern Express Way ex-tending the full length of the Island and a lsquospider likersquo network of roads leading to all parts of the Islands A number of the 1970 Military Installations have been returned to the Japanese Government and replaced with lsquohigh risersquo buildings
On what used to be the Awase Golf Course is now the Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom a multistory mall that would rival any mod-ern mall we might find in the States The Express Way frequently maneuvers through tunnels carved out of the limited moun-tains on Okinawa the coral shores have been replaced with sand and beaches are plentiful as are numerous scenic drives through the countryside
Pag e 18 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Don amp Patsy Smith
I have not been able to verify the figures but I recall using population figures in the 1970rsquos of 300000 today that population exceeds 1300000 Okinawa has become Mainland Japanrsquos Hawaii resort Island
During our time here the enhanced security has required us to lsquoget a passrsquo for Pat as she does not have a CAC which I have to enter the Military Installations One of the Church members sponsored her allowing us to visit many of the Exchange Facili-ties Today Futenma Kadena Hansen Torii Schwab Foster and Kinser are the major facilities remaining on the Island
I remember in the 70rsquos sharing with my Okinawan counter parts the need for the Exchange Facilities to lsquolook like homersquo for the Americans They of course were willing to help but my Automotive Tech Rep Arkaki-san asked me lsquowhat does home look likersquo We were trying to emulate the lsquoappearancersquo of our Stateside BasePost Exchanges but knowing they would not know what they looked like I told him we need to make them look like SEARS we did not have Wal-Mart in those days
He and the others nodded and we went about working on the lsquofacadesrsquo of the scattered Service Facilities we had all over the Island On one occasion I invited lsquomy guysrsquo to our home for a cook out with homemade ice cream and Arkaki-san asked how I thought our efforts were coming along with the lsquolookrsquo as I called it I told him I was very pleased and more important so were our customers He then told me lsquoI am happy because none of us know this SEARS you talk about what does it look likersquo I learned a lesson that day lsquodonrsquot always assume your counterpart in a different country understands the word picture you are trying to sharersquo
But back to today the Exchange folks here continue with that lsquolook of homersquo approach The added franchise facilities like Chilirsquos Subway Popeyes Baskin Robbins and of course one of my favorites one of the original Exchange self-franchises Anthonyrsquos Pizza dates back to lsquomy daysrsquo
Being in a lsquoMilitaryrsquo Church I have had to opportunity to talk with many Military Families from the Air Force Army Ma-rines and Navy My lsquoMarinersquo friends will ask lsquowhy did not you list the Marines first we always arrive firstrsquo But I chose to list them alphabetically to not offend either of the branches They each are among the lsquofinestrsquo of the young men and women who serve our country I am proud to be with them even if only for a short while All I have met are lsquothrilledrsquo with the Ex-change Facilities on Okinawa In fact one Marine told me lsquoit is a touch of homersquo
So to the Exchange Family in Okinawa lsquoGreat Jobrsquo
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith (Continued)
In the News From a December 15 e-mail from Jim Henry ldquo In case you missed it Darren Woods son of Dale and Karen Woods was named today to be Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mo-bil Darren replaces Rex Tillerson who is being nominated for Secretary of State Dale and Karen hope you dont mind me bragging on Darren a little You must be awfully proud of himrdquo
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 19
IN REMEMBRANCE
ERENEO COPADA 89 Aug 20 in San Francisco CA The Presidio of San Francisco Safety and Security Assistant retired in 1998
DENNIS JONES 81 died July 12 in Dallas TX The Frankfurt General Manager retired in 1986
BILLY GILES 77 died Aug 10 in Red Oak TX The HQ Computer Systems analyst retired in 1995
Antoinette (Toni) Long 79 died Sept 4 in Hampton SC The Los Angeles AFB General Manager retired in 1992
THOMAS SAVAGEAU 79 died Aug 23 in Ajijic Jalisco Mexico The HQ Associate retired in 1989
JOHN SHARP 59 died May 12 in Ovilla TX The Europe Egion Area manager retired in 2013
PAUL TAFF 90 died Aug 21 in Arlington TX The HQ Associate retired in 1983
ROBERT WILLINGHAM 84 died Sept 28 in Dallas TX The HQ Associate retired in 1993
DOUGLAS WOODHOUSE 64 died Oct 1 in Mobile AL The HQ Management Analyst retired in 2006
Pag e 20 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
WILLS ldquoFrom time to time retired associates of AAFES leave be-quests to the AREA in their will If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that pre-pares your formally written and executed will with the follow-ing sample clause If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause I give (blank dollarsproperty) to the Army Air Force Ex-change Service Retired Employees Association (AREA) PO Box 380614 Duncanville Texas 75138
Other Chapter reported deaths
George John Vomvoris legendary AAFES Food amp Services Executive (76) passed
away on November 18 2016 with his family by his side in Waxahachie Texas
Also we received news that Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur who is well known as
the first female super rate in AAFES passed away at age 88 in early November
(See eulogy on pages 21-23 by Aubrey Rembold)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 15
Gulf Coast Chapter - Jan Comstock
Super fun and exciting AAFES Retiree Christmas luncheon 62 in attendance We had a blast We had to renew our
membership and pay our $500 dues for the year We had a great raffle and also brought in can goods for the food
banks in our area A great big thank you and job well done to Steve Friend and Regina Steve Mitchell and Susan
attended both doing so much better Missed three that could not attend We had so much fun with our signsmdashfound
out we have a lot of naughty ladies They all asked for the naughty sign A big plus for me was that the group
sang Happy Birthday to me The waitress surprised me with a slice of chocolate cake with a candle and ice cream We
also recognized the other December birthday Merry Christmas
Scott Maynard Billy Hullen-der and Brenda Hullender
Olive Bobo and Marcia Watts Harville
Isabelle Good Hender-shot and Gail Golden Escobedo
See many more photos on Jan Comstockrsquos Facebook page
Jan Comstock
North Texas ChaptermdashRichard Sheff and Linda Dean
The North Texas Chapter of AREA has been busy this past quarter attending events such as the music of Johnny Cash a FREE Membership Appreciation Luncheon and a Holiday Celebration amp Gift Ex-change Please follow us on our Facebook page at North Texas Chapter of AREA to see all of the pic-tures
ldquoRing of Firerdquo at the Addison Water Tower Theatre Oct 16 ndash NTC-AREA members attended a play that
included the music of Johnny Cash After the Johnny Cash music we enjoyed dinner at BJrsquos Restaurant and
Brewhouse
Linda Dean Jerry amp Carlon Cloud
and Sarah Rabb Marilyn amp Leon Levin Doug amp Gail Olney Lina amp Chuck Poffenbarger
Membership Appreciation FREE Luncheon at Rudyrsquos BBQ Nov 3 ndash Annually the North Texas Chapter of
AREA has a FREE appreciation luncheon for members This year 103 members enjoyed barbecue at Rudyrsquos
Barbecue amp Country Store
Even with 2 serving tables the lines were long There was plenty of food for everyone
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Continued on next page
Pag e 16 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Take coverhellip Richard Sheff has a knife to cut the cake
NTC-AREA Board Meeting at HQ Nov 11 - After a NTC-AREA board meeting at HQ some of the members ran into some of the active Exchange Executives Dave Nelson and Ana Middleton From left to right Roy Robertson Jr Debbie Kliment Byerly Tom Branning Dave Nelson Richard Sheff Ana Middle-ton Jack Leavitt and Dale Linebarger
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Annual Holiday Celebration amp Gift Exchange Dec 4 ndash To celebrate the holiday season NTC-AREA members
gathered for a late luncheon at the YO Ranch Steakhouse The food was good and we had a private room for social-
izing and fun with the gift exchange
56 members attended the party at the YO Ranch Steakhouse So many pretty packages
to choose from
NTC President
Richard Sheff and
Master of Ceremo-
nies always
makes the gift ex-
change so much
fun
Bobbye Towns wearing
her Christmas gift Do you
think wersquoll see it again
next year
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos
Pat Weaver writes ldquoIf the mem-
bers want to know why their
checks are delayed this is the rea-
son The little Christmas trees are
my lsquoRed Neckrsquo trees They have
gun shells on them for lightsrdquo I
made all the ceramic pieces such
as the Santas and manger scenes
(See more photos on page 23)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 17
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith
In the summer of 1973 the Exchange transferred me from the Colorado Area Ex-change Fort Carson CO where I was the Services Operations Manager to the Okina-wa Regional Exchange as Chief of Services I was a 13 year veteran of AAFES at that time starting when I graduated High School in 1960 with the George AFB Exchange Victorville CA My first job was a Petroleum Transfer Engineer a Pump Island At-tendant for the unlearned Okinawa was our first overseas assignment and it was the first time my wife and children would fly My four year old son at the time would look up in the sky at an airplane and ask his Mother lsquoCanrsquot Daddy drive the car to Okinawarsquo We could never find the lsquobridgersquo across the Pacific so fly it was
We stopped over in Hawaii for several days to straighten out some passport issues for my family then it was on to Okinawa We landed at the lsquotail endrsquo of a Typhoon with scores of airport employees meeting the aircraft with umbrellas ushering us to a bus to take to us to the terminal Much of the Naha Airport was open to the outside in 1973 which would have been a delight except it was raining very hard with high winds John Hanson was our sponsor and met us at
the exit to Customs and welcomed us to Okinawa He and Lydie took very good care of us and helped us to acclimate ourselves to Okinawa life
It took us a few weeks to get our quarters assigned to us and with lsquoaddressrsquo and direc-tions in hand we drove to see it According to the house numbers it was an empty lot overgrown with trees and weeds 20rsquo tall After several passes searching to make sure I was not overlooking the address I was getting ready to go back to the housing office when my daughter said lsquolook Daddy I can see a roofrsquo I stopped and walked through the undergrowth to a house that appeared to have been sitting empty for a while Later that evening I told John Hanson that we found the house but it will take a little bit of work to clear the growth to where we can live in the house With the help of a lsquoPapa-sanrsquo we were able to do so quickly and settled in for life on Okinawa
While in Hawaii my children begged me to go to the beach which I refused because I told them lsquowe are going to live on an island for three years you can swim when we get therersquo However the Okinawa of 1973 is not the Okinawa of today The only beach for swimming we could find was Okuma on the Northern part of the Island The other shore line was riddled with volcanic rock which required you to wear lsquocombat bootsrsquo to walk However we loved it
The Okinawa of today 40 plus years later is much dif-ferent Pat and I were offered the opportunity to come back for three months to lsquofill inrsquo for a Missionary Pas-tor in the Church we were members of while here in the 70rsquos who needed to return to the States for that pe-riod of time We were immediately reminded lsquowe live in a different worldrsquo today than that we experienced four decades ago with the added security at airports the
enhanced visa checks customs inspectiondeclaration and when we were met with the lsquoclosedrsquo Military Installations that were open in the 1970rsquos
But the thing that had not changed is the politeness of the Japanese people We flew into Tokyo Narita Airport and had to catch a bus for the 45 minute drive to Haneda Air-port where our flight departed to Okinawa The attendants were striking with their cus-tomary bow to all who boarded the bus and we were met with this same courtesy when the bus arrived at Haneda and again when we exited the plane at Naha Okinawa In the Restaurants the stores-large and small-we have been met with this ever present polite welcome
Our hour drive from the Airport to Church apartments on the evening of our arrival introduced us to a modern Express Way ex-tending the full length of the Island and a lsquospider likersquo network of roads leading to all parts of the Islands A number of the 1970 Military Installations have been returned to the Japanese Government and replaced with lsquohigh risersquo buildings
On what used to be the Awase Golf Course is now the Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom a multistory mall that would rival any mod-ern mall we might find in the States The Express Way frequently maneuvers through tunnels carved out of the limited moun-tains on Okinawa the coral shores have been replaced with sand and beaches are plentiful as are numerous scenic drives through the countryside
Pag e 18 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Don amp Patsy Smith
I have not been able to verify the figures but I recall using population figures in the 1970rsquos of 300000 today that population exceeds 1300000 Okinawa has become Mainland Japanrsquos Hawaii resort Island
During our time here the enhanced security has required us to lsquoget a passrsquo for Pat as she does not have a CAC which I have to enter the Military Installations One of the Church members sponsored her allowing us to visit many of the Exchange Facili-ties Today Futenma Kadena Hansen Torii Schwab Foster and Kinser are the major facilities remaining on the Island
I remember in the 70rsquos sharing with my Okinawan counter parts the need for the Exchange Facilities to lsquolook like homersquo for the Americans They of course were willing to help but my Automotive Tech Rep Arkaki-san asked me lsquowhat does home look likersquo We were trying to emulate the lsquoappearancersquo of our Stateside BasePost Exchanges but knowing they would not know what they looked like I told him we need to make them look like SEARS we did not have Wal-Mart in those days
He and the others nodded and we went about working on the lsquofacadesrsquo of the scattered Service Facilities we had all over the Island On one occasion I invited lsquomy guysrsquo to our home for a cook out with homemade ice cream and Arkaki-san asked how I thought our efforts were coming along with the lsquolookrsquo as I called it I told him I was very pleased and more important so were our customers He then told me lsquoI am happy because none of us know this SEARS you talk about what does it look likersquo I learned a lesson that day lsquodonrsquot always assume your counterpart in a different country understands the word picture you are trying to sharersquo
But back to today the Exchange folks here continue with that lsquolook of homersquo approach The added franchise facilities like Chilirsquos Subway Popeyes Baskin Robbins and of course one of my favorites one of the original Exchange self-franchises Anthonyrsquos Pizza dates back to lsquomy daysrsquo
Being in a lsquoMilitaryrsquo Church I have had to opportunity to talk with many Military Families from the Air Force Army Ma-rines and Navy My lsquoMarinersquo friends will ask lsquowhy did not you list the Marines first we always arrive firstrsquo But I chose to list them alphabetically to not offend either of the branches They each are among the lsquofinestrsquo of the young men and women who serve our country I am proud to be with them even if only for a short while All I have met are lsquothrilledrsquo with the Ex-change Facilities on Okinawa In fact one Marine told me lsquoit is a touch of homersquo
So to the Exchange Family in Okinawa lsquoGreat Jobrsquo
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith (Continued)
In the News From a December 15 e-mail from Jim Henry ldquo In case you missed it Darren Woods son of Dale and Karen Woods was named today to be Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mo-bil Darren replaces Rex Tillerson who is being nominated for Secretary of State Dale and Karen hope you dont mind me bragging on Darren a little You must be awfully proud of himrdquo
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 19
IN REMEMBRANCE
ERENEO COPADA 89 Aug 20 in San Francisco CA The Presidio of San Francisco Safety and Security Assistant retired in 1998
DENNIS JONES 81 died July 12 in Dallas TX The Frankfurt General Manager retired in 1986
BILLY GILES 77 died Aug 10 in Red Oak TX The HQ Computer Systems analyst retired in 1995
Antoinette (Toni) Long 79 died Sept 4 in Hampton SC The Los Angeles AFB General Manager retired in 1992
THOMAS SAVAGEAU 79 died Aug 23 in Ajijic Jalisco Mexico The HQ Associate retired in 1989
JOHN SHARP 59 died May 12 in Ovilla TX The Europe Egion Area manager retired in 2013
PAUL TAFF 90 died Aug 21 in Arlington TX The HQ Associate retired in 1983
ROBERT WILLINGHAM 84 died Sept 28 in Dallas TX The HQ Associate retired in 1993
DOUGLAS WOODHOUSE 64 died Oct 1 in Mobile AL The HQ Management Analyst retired in 2006
Pag e 20 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
WILLS ldquoFrom time to time retired associates of AAFES leave be-quests to the AREA in their will If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that pre-pares your formally written and executed will with the follow-ing sample clause If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause I give (blank dollarsproperty) to the Army Air Force Ex-change Service Retired Employees Association (AREA) PO Box 380614 Duncanville Texas 75138
Other Chapter reported deaths
George John Vomvoris legendary AAFES Food amp Services Executive (76) passed
away on November 18 2016 with his family by his side in Waxahachie Texas
Also we received news that Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur who is well known as
the first female super rate in AAFES passed away at age 88 in early November
(See eulogy on pages 21-23 by Aubrey Rembold)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
North Texas ChaptermdashRichard Sheff and Linda Dean
The North Texas Chapter of AREA has been busy this past quarter attending events such as the music of Johnny Cash a FREE Membership Appreciation Luncheon and a Holiday Celebration amp Gift Ex-change Please follow us on our Facebook page at North Texas Chapter of AREA to see all of the pic-tures
ldquoRing of Firerdquo at the Addison Water Tower Theatre Oct 16 ndash NTC-AREA members attended a play that
included the music of Johnny Cash After the Johnny Cash music we enjoyed dinner at BJrsquos Restaurant and
Brewhouse
Linda Dean Jerry amp Carlon Cloud
and Sarah Rabb Marilyn amp Leon Levin Doug amp Gail Olney Lina amp Chuck Poffenbarger
Membership Appreciation FREE Luncheon at Rudyrsquos BBQ Nov 3 ndash Annually the North Texas Chapter of
AREA has a FREE appreciation luncheon for members This year 103 members enjoyed barbecue at Rudyrsquos
Barbecue amp Country Store
Even with 2 serving tables the lines were long There was plenty of food for everyone
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Continued on next page
Pag e 16 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Take coverhellip Richard Sheff has a knife to cut the cake
NTC-AREA Board Meeting at HQ Nov 11 - After a NTC-AREA board meeting at HQ some of the members ran into some of the active Exchange Executives Dave Nelson and Ana Middleton From left to right Roy Robertson Jr Debbie Kliment Byerly Tom Branning Dave Nelson Richard Sheff Ana Middle-ton Jack Leavitt and Dale Linebarger
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Annual Holiday Celebration amp Gift Exchange Dec 4 ndash To celebrate the holiday season NTC-AREA members
gathered for a late luncheon at the YO Ranch Steakhouse The food was good and we had a private room for social-
izing and fun with the gift exchange
56 members attended the party at the YO Ranch Steakhouse So many pretty packages
to choose from
NTC President
Richard Sheff and
Master of Ceremo-
nies always
makes the gift ex-
change so much
fun
Bobbye Towns wearing
her Christmas gift Do you
think wersquoll see it again
next year
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos
Pat Weaver writes ldquoIf the mem-
bers want to know why their
checks are delayed this is the rea-
son The little Christmas trees are
my lsquoRed Neckrsquo trees They have
gun shells on them for lightsrdquo I
made all the ceramic pieces such
as the Santas and manger scenes
(See more photos on page 23)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 17
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith
In the summer of 1973 the Exchange transferred me from the Colorado Area Ex-change Fort Carson CO where I was the Services Operations Manager to the Okina-wa Regional Exchange as Chief of Services I was a 13 year veteran of AAFES at that time starting when I graduated High School in 1960 with the George AFB Exchange Victorville CA My first job was a Petroleum Transfer Engineer a Pump Island At-tendant for the unlearned Okinawa was our first overseas assignment and it was the first time my wife and children would fly My four year old son at the time would look up in the sky at an airplane and ask his Mother lsquoCanrsquot Daddy drive the car to Okinawarsquo We could never find the lsquobridgersquo across the Pacific so fly it was
We stopped over in Hawaii for several days to straighten out some passport issues for my family then it was on to Okinawa We landed at the lsquotail endrsquo of a Typhoon with scores of airport employees meeting the aircraft with umbrellas ushering us to a bus to take to us to the terminal Much of the Naha Airport was open to the outside in 1973 which would have been a delight except it was raining very hard with high winds John Hanson was our sponsor and met us at
the exit to Customs and welcomed us to Okinawa He and Lydie took very good care of us and helped us to acclimate ourselves to Okinawa life
It took us a few weeks to get our quarters assigned to us and with lsquoaddressrsquo and direc-tions in hand we drove to see it According to the house numbers it was an empty lot overgrown with trees and weeds 20rsquo tall After several passes searching to make sure I was not overlooking the address I was getting ready to go back to the housing office when my daughter said lsquolook Daddy I can see a roofrsquo I stopped and walked through the undergrowth to a house that appeared to have been sitting empty for a while Later that evening I told John Hanson that we found the house but it will take a little bit of work to clear the growth to where we can live in the house With the help of a lsquoPapa-sanrsquo we were able to do so quickly and settled in for life on Okinawa
While in Hawaii my children begged me to go to the beach which I refused because I told them lsquowe are going to live on an island for three years you can swim when we get therersquo However the Okinawa of 1973 is not the Okinawa of today The only beach for swimming we could find was Okuma on the Northern part of the Island The other shore line was riddled with volcanic rock which required you to wear lsquocombat bootsrsquo to walk However we loved it
The Okinawa of today 40 plus years later is much dif-ferent Pat and I were offered the opportunity to come back for three months to lsquofill inrsquo for a Missionary Pas-tor in the Church we were members of while here in the 70rsquos who needed to return to the States for that pe-riod of time We were immediately reminded lsquowe live in a different worldrsquo today than that we experienced four decades ago with the added security at airports the
enhanced visa checks customs inspectiondeclaration and when we were met with the lsquoclosedrsquo Military Installations that were open in the 1970rsquos
But the thing that had not changed is the politeness of the Japanese people We flew into Tokyo Narita Airport and had to catch a bus for the 45 minute drive to Haneda Air-port where our flight departed to Okinawa The attendants were striking with their cus-tomary bow to all who boarded the bus and we were met with this same courtesy when the bus arrived at Haneda and again when we exited the plane at Naha Okinawa In the Restaurants the stores-large and small-we have been met with this ever present polite welcome
Our hour drive from the Airport to Church apartments on the evening of our arrival introduced us to a modern Express Way ex-tending the full length of the Island and a lsquospider likersquo network of roads leading to all parts of the Islands A number of the 1970 Military Installations have been returned to the Japanese Government and replaced with lsquohigh risersquo buildings
On what used to be the Awase Golf Course is now the Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom a multistory mall that would rival any mod-ern mall we might find in the States The Express Way frequently maneuvers through tunnels carved out of the limited moun-tains on Okinawa the coral shores have been replaced with sand and beaches are plentiful as are numerous scenic drives through the countryside
Pag e 18 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Don amp Patsy Smith
I have not been able to verify the figures but I recall using population figures in the 1970rsquos of 300000 today that population exceeds 1300000 Okinawa has become Mainland Japanrsquos Hawaii resort Island
During our time here the enhanced security has required us to lsquoget a passrsquo for Pat as she does not have a CAC which I have to enter the Military Installations One of the Church members sponsored her allowing us to visit many of the Exchange Facili-ties Today Futenma Kadena Hansen Torii Schwab Foster and Kinser are the major facilities remaining on the Island
I remember in the 70rsquos sharing with my Okinawan counter parts the need for the Exchange Facilities to lsquolook like homersquo for the Americans They of course were willing to help but my Automotive Tech Rep Arkaki-san asked me lsquowhat does home look likersquo We were trying to emulate the lsquoappearancersquo of our Stateside BasePost Exchanges but knowing they would not know what they looked like I told him we need to make them look like SEARS we did not have Wal-Mart in those days
He and the others nodded and we went about working on the lsquofacadesrsquo of the scattered Service Facilities we had all over the Island On one occasion I invited lsquomy guysrsquo to our home for a cook out with homemade ice cream and Arkaki-san asked how I thought our efforts were coming along with the lsquolookrsquo as I called it I told him I was very pleased and more important so were our customers He then told me lsquoI am happy because none of us know this SEARS you talk about what does it look likersquo I learned a lesson that day lsquodonrsquot always assume your counterpart in a different country understands the word picture you are trying to sharersquo
But back to today the Exchange folks here continue with that lsquolook of homersquo approach The added franchise facilities like Chilirsquos Subway Popeyes Baskin Robbins and of course one of my favorites one of the original Exchange self-franchises Anthonyrsquos Pizza dates back to lsquomy daysrsquo
Being in a lsquoMilitaryrsquo Church I have had to opportunity to talk with many Military Families from the Air Force Army Ma-rines and Navy My lsquoMarinersquo friends will ask lsquowhy did not you list the Marines first we always arrive firstrsquo But I chose to list them alphabetically to not offend either of the branches They each are among the lsquofinestrsquo of the young men and women who serve our country I am proud to be with them even if only for a short while All I have met are lsquothrilledrsquo with the Ex-change Facilities on Okinawa In fact one Marine told me lsquoit is a touch of homersquo
So to the Exchange Family in Okinawa lsquoGreat Jobrsquo
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith (Continued)
In the News From a December 15 e-mail from Jim Henry ldquo In case you missed it Darren Woods son of Dale and Karen Woods was named today to be Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mo-bil Darren replaces Rex Tillerson who is being nominated for Secretary of State Dale and Karen hope you dont mind me bragging on Darren a little You must be awfully proud of himrdquo
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 19
IN REMEMBRANCE
ERENEO COPADA 89 Aug 20 in San Francisco CA The Presidio of San Francisco Safety and Security Assistant retired in 1998
DENNIS JONES 81 died July 12 in Dallas TX The Frankfurt General Manager retired in 1986
BILLY GILES 77 died Aug 10 in Red Oak TX The HQ Computer Systems analyst retired in 1995
Antoinette (Toni) Long 79 died Sept 4 in Hampton SC The Los Angeles AFB General Manager retired in 1992
THOMAS SAVAGEAU 79 died Aug 23 in Ajijic Jalisco Mexico The HQ Associate retired in 1989
JOHN SHARP 59 died May 12 in Ovilla TX The Europe Egion Area manager retired in 2013
PAUL TAFF 90 died Aug 21 in Arlington TX The HQ Associate retired in 1983
ROBERT WILLINGHAM 84 died Sept 28 in Dallas TX The HQ Associate retired in 1993
DOUGLAS WOODHOUSE 64 died Oct 1 in Mobile AL The HQ Management Analyst retired in 2006
Pag e 20 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
WILLS ldquoFrom time to time retired associates of AAFES leave be-quests to the AREA in their will If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that pre-pares your formally written and executed will with the follow-ing sample clause If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause I give (blank dollarsproperty) to the Army Air Force Ex-change Service Retired Employees Association (AREA) PO Box 380614 Duncanville Texas 75138
Other Chapter reported deaths
George John Vomvoris legendary AAFES Food amp Services Executive (76) passed
away on November 18 2016 with his family by his side in Waxahachie Texas
Also we received news that Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur who is well known as
the first female super rate in AAFES passed away at age 88 in early November
(See eulogy on pages 21-23 by Aubrey Rembold)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
NTC-AREA Board Meeting at HQ Nov 11 - After a NTC-AREA board meeting at HQ some of the members ran into some of the active Exchange Executives Dave Nelson and Ana Middleton From left to right Roy Robertson Jr Debbie Kliment Byerly Tom Branning Dave Nelson Richard Sheff Ana Middle-ton Jack Leavitt and Dale Linebarger
CHAPTER HAPPENINGS
Annual Holiday Celebration amp Gift Exchange Dec 4 ndash To celebrate the holiday season NTC-AREA members
gathered for a late luncheon at the YO Ranch Steakhouse The food was good and we had a private room for social-
izing and fun with the gift exchange
56 members attended the party at the YO Ranch Steakhouse So many pretty packages
to choose from
NTC President
Richard Sheff and
Master of Ceremo-
nies always
makes the gift ex-
change so much
fun
Bobbye Towns wearing
her Christmas gift Do you
think wersquoll see it again
next year
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos
Pat Weaver writes ldquoIf the mem-
bers want to know why their
checks are delayed this is the rea-
son The little Christmas trees are
my lsquoRed Neckrsquo trees They have
gun shells on them for lightsrdquo I
made all the ceramic pieces such
as the Santas and manger scenes
(See more photos on page 23)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 17
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith
In the summer of 1973 the Exchange transferred me from the Colorado Area Ex-change Fort Carson CO where I was the Services Operations Manager to the Okina-wa Regional Exchange as Chief of Services I was a 13 year veteran of AAFES at that time starting when I graduated High School in 1960 with the George AFB Exchange Victorville CA My first job was a Petroleum Transfer Engineer a Pump Island At-tendant for the unlearned Okinawa was our first overseas assignment and it was the first time my wife and children would fly My four year old son at the time would look up in the sky at an airplane and ask his Mother lsquoCanrsquot Daddy drive the car to Okinawarsquo We could never find the lsquobridgersquo across the Pacific so fly it was
We stopped over in Hawaii for several days to straighten out some passport issues for my family then it was on to Okinawa We landed at the lsquotail endrsquo of a Typhoon with scores of airport employees meeting the aircraft with umbrellas ushering us to a bus to take to us to the terminal Much of the Naha Airport was open to the outside in 1973 which would have been a delight except it was raining very hard with high winds John Hanson was our sponsor and met us at
the exit to Customs and welcomed us to Okinawa He and Lydie took very good care of us and helped us to acclimate ourselves to Okinawa life
It took us a few weeks to get our quarters assigned to us and with lsquoaddressrsquo and direc-tions in hand we drove to see it According to the house numbers it was an empty lot overgrown with trees and weeds 20rsquo tall After several passes searching to make sure I was not overlooking the address I was getting ready to go back to the housing office when my daughter said lsquolook Daddy I can see a roofrsquo I stopped and walked through the undergrowth to a house that appeared to have been sitting empty for a while Later that evening I told John Hanson that we found the house but it will take a little bit of work to clear the growth to where we can live in the house With the help of a lsquoPapa-sanrsquo we were able to do so quickly and settled in for life on Okinawa
While in Hawaii my children begged me to go to the beach which I refused because I told them lsquowe are going to live on an island for three years you can swim when we get therersquo However the Okinawa of 1973 is not the Okinawa of today The only beach for swimming we could find was Okuma on the Northern part of the Island The other shore line was riddled with volcanic rock which required you to wear lsquocombat bootsrsquo to walk However we loved it
The Okinawa of today 40 plus years later is much dif-ferent Pat and I were offered the opportunity to come back for three months to lsquofill inrsquo for a Missionary Pas-tor in the Church we were members of while here in the 70rsquos who needed to return to the States for that pe-riod of time We were immediately reminded lsquowe live in a different worldrsquo today than that we experienced four decades ago with the added security at airports the
enhanced visa checks customs inspectiondeclaration and when we were met with the lsquoclosedrsquo Military Installations that were open in the 1970rsquos
But the thing that had not changed is the politeness of the Japanese people We flew into Tokyo Narita Airport and had to catch a bus for the 45 minute drive to Haneda Air-port where our flight departed to Okinawa The attendants were striking with their cus-tomary bow to all who boarded the bus and we were met with this same courtesy when the bus arrived at Haneda and again when we exited the plane at Naha Okinawa In the Restaurants the stores-large and small-we have been met with this ever present polite welcome
Our hour drive from the Airport to Church apartments on the evening of our arrival introduced us to a modern Express Way ex-tending the full length of the Island and a lsquospider likersquo network of roads leading to all parts of the Islands A number of the 1970 Military Installations have been returned to the Japanese Government and replaced with lsquohigh risersquo buildings
On what used to be the Awase Golf Course is now the Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom a multistory mall that would rival any mod-ern mall we might find in the States The Express Way frequently maneuvers through tunnels carved out of the limited moun-tains on Okinawa the coral shores have been replaced with sand and beaches are plentiful as are numerous scenic drives through the countryside
Pag e 18 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Don amp Patsy Smith
I have not been able to verify the figures but I recall using population figures in the 1970rsquos of 300000 today that population exceeds 1300000 Okinawa has become Mainland Japanrsquos Hawaii resort Island
During our time here the enhanced security has required us to lsquoget a passrsquo for Pat as she does not have a CAC which I have to enter the Military Installations One of the Church members sponsored her allowing us to visit many of the Exchange Facili-ties Today Futenma Kadena Hansen Torii Schwab Foster and Kinser are the major facilities remaining on the Island
I remember in the 70rsquos sharing with my Okinawan counter parts the need for the Exchange Facilities to lsquolook like homersquo for the Americans They of course were willing to help but my Automotive Tech Rep Arkaki-san asked me lsquowhat does home look likersquo We were trying to emulate the lsquoappearancersquo of our Stateside BasePost Exchanges but knowing they would not know what they looked like I told him we need to make them look like SEARS we did not have Wal-Mart in those days
He and the others nodded and we went about working on the lsquofacadesrsquo of the scattered Service Facilities we had all over the Island On one occasion I invited lsquomy guysrsquo to our home for a cook out with homemade ice cream and Arkaki-san asked how I thought our efforts were coming along with the lsquolookrsquo as I called it I told him I was very pleased and more important so were our customers He then told me lsquoI am happy because none of us know this SEARS you talk about what does it look likersquo I learned a lesson that day lsquodonrsquot always assume your counterpart in a different country understands the word picture you are trying to sharersquo
But back to today the Exchange folks here continue with that lsquolook of homersquo approach The added franchise facilities like Chilirsquos Subway Popeyes Baskin Robbins and of course one of my favorites one of the original Exchange self-franchises Anthonyrsquos Pizza dates back to lsquomy daysrsquo
Being in a lsquoMilitaryrsquo Church I have had to opportunity to talk with many Military Families from the Air Force Army Ma-rines and Navy My lsquoMarinersquo friends will ask lsquowhy did not you list the Marines first we always arrive firstrsquo But I chose to list them alphabetically to not offend either of the branches They each are among the lsquofinestrsquo of the young men and women who serve our country I am proud to be with them even if only for a short while All I have met are lsquothrilledrsquo with the Ex-change Facilities on Okinawa In fact one Marine told me lsquoit is a touch of homersquo
So to the Exchange Family in Okinawa lsquoGreat Jobrsquo
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith (Continued)
In the News From a December 15 e-mail from Jim Henry ldquo In case you missed it Darren Woods son of Dale and Karen Woods was named today to be Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mo-bil Darren replaces Rex Tillerson who is being nominated for Secretary of State Dale and Karen hope you dont mind me bragging on Darren a little You must be awfully proud of himrdquo
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 19
IN REMEMBRANCE
ERENEO COPADA 89 Aug 20 in San Francisco CA The Presidio of San Francisco Safety and Security Assistant retired in 1998
DENNIS JONES 81 died July 12 in Dallas TX The Frankfurt General Manager retired in 1986
BILLY GILES 77 died Aug 10 in Red Oak TX The HQ Computer Systems analyst retired in 1995
Antoinette (Toni) Long 79 died Sept 4 in Hampton SC The Los Angeles AFB General Manager retired in 1992
THOMAS SAVAGEAU 79 died Aug 23 in Ajijic Jalisco Mexico The HQ Associate retired in 1989
JOHN SHARP 59 died May 12 in Ovilla TX The Europe Egion Area manager retired in 2013
PAUL TAFF 90 died Aug 21 in Arlington TX The HQ Associate retired in 1983
ROBERT WILLINGHAM 84 died Sept 28 in Dallas TX The HQ Associate retired in 1993
DOUGLAS WOODHOUSE 64 died Oct 1 in Mobile AL The HQ Management Analyst retired in 2006
Pag e 20 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
WILLS ldquoFrom time to time retired associates of AAFES leave be-quests to the AREA in their will If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that pre-pares your formally written and executed will with the follow-ing sample clause If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause I give (blank dollarsproperty) to the Army Air Force Ex-change Service Retired Employees Association (AREA) PO Box 380614 Duncanville Texas 75138
Other Chapter reported deaths
George John Vomvoris legendary AAFES Food amp Services Executive (76) passed
away on November 18 2016 with his family by his side in Waxahachie Texas
Also we received news that Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur who is well known as
the first female super rate in AAFES passed away at age 88 in early November
(See eulogy on pages 21-23 by Aubrey Rembold)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith
In the summer of 1973 the Exchange transferred me from the Colorado Area Ex-change Fort Carson CO where I was the Services Operations Manager to the Okina-wa Regional Exchange as Chief of Services I was a 13 year veteran of AAFES at that time starting when I graduated High School in 1960 with the George AFB Exchange Victorville CA My first job was a Petroleum Transfer Engineer a Pump Island At-tendant for the unlearned Okinawa was our first overseas assignment and it was the first time my wife and children would fly My four year old son at the time would look up in the sky at an airplane and ask his Mother lsquoCanrsquot Daddy drive the car to Okinawarsquo We could never find the lsquobridgersquo across the Pacific so fly it was
We stopped over in Hawaii for several days to straighten out some passport issues for my family then it was on to Okinawa We landed at the lsquotail endrsquo of a Typhoon with scores of airport employees meeting the aircraft with umbrellas ushering us to a bus to take to us to the terminal Much of the Naha Airport was open to the outside in 1973 which would have been a delight except it was raining very hard with high winds John Hanson was our sponsor and met us at
the exit to Customs and welcomed us to Okinawa He and Lydie took very good care of us and helped us to acclimate ourselves to Okinawa life
It took us a few weeks to get our quarters assigned to us and with lsquoaddressrsquo and direc-tions in hand we drove to see it According to the house numbers it was an empty lot overgrown with trees and weeds 20rsquo tall After several passes searching to make sure I was not overlooking the address I was getting ready to go back to the housing office when my daughter said lsquolook Daddy I can see a roofrsquo I stopped and walked through the undergrowth to a house that appeared to have been sitting empty for a while Later that evening I told John Hanson that we found the house but it will take a little bit of work to clear the growth to where we can live in the house With the help of a lsquoPapa-sanrsquo we were able to do so quickly and settled in for life on Okinawa
While in Hawaii my children begged me to go to the beach which I refused because I told them lsquowe are going to live on an island for three years you can swim when we get therersquo However the Okinawa of 1973 is not the Okinawa of today The only beach for swimming we could find was Okuma on the Northern part of the Island The other shore line was riddled with volcanic rock which required you to wear lsquocombat bootsrsquo to walk However we loved it
The Okinawa of today 40 plus years later is much dif-ferent Pat and I were offered the opportunity to come back for three months to lsquofill inrsquo for a Missionary Pas-tor in the Church we were members of while here in the 70rsquos who needed to return to the States for that pe-riod of time We were immediately reminded lsquowe live in a different worldrsquo today than that we experienced four decades ago with the added security at airports the
enhanced visa checks customs inspectiondeclaration and when we were met with the lsquoclosedrsquo Military Installations that were open in the 1970rsquos
But the thing that had not changed is the politeness of the Japanese people We flew into Tokyo Narita Airport and had to catch a bus for the 45 minute drive to Haneda Air-port where our flight departed to Okinawa The attendants were striking with their cus-tomary bow to all who boarded the bus and we were met with this same courtesy when the bus arrived at Haneda and again when we exited the plane at Naha Okinawa In the Restaurants the stores-large and small-we have been met with this ever present polite welcome
Our hour drive from the Airport to Church apartments on the evening of our arrival introduced us to a modern Express Way ex-tending the full length of the Island and a lsquospider likersquo network of roads leading to all parts of the Islands A number of the 1970 Military Installations have been returned to the Japanese Government and replaced with lsquohigh risersquo buildings
On what used to be the Awase Golf Course is now the Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom a multistory mall that would rival any mod-ern mall we might find in the States The Express Way frequently maneuvers through tunnels carved out of the limited moun-tains on Okinawa the coral shores have been replaced with sand and beaches are plentiful as are numerous scenic drives through the countryside
Pag e 18 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Don amp Patsy Smith
I have not been able to verify the figures but I recall using population figures in the 1970rsquos of 300000 today that population exceeds 1300000 Okinawa has become Mainland Japanrsquos Hawaii resort Island
During our time here the enhanced security has required us to lsquoget a passrsquo for Pat as she does not have a CAC which I have to enter the Military Installations One of the Church members sponsored her allowing us to visit many of the Exchange Facili-ties Today Futenma Kadena Hansen Torii Schwab Foster and Kinser are the major facilities remaining on the Island
I remember in the 70rsquos sharing with my Okinawan counter parts the need for the Exchange Facilities to lsquolook like homersquo for the Americans They of course were willing to help but my Automotive Tech Rep Arkaki-san asked me lsquowhat does home look likersquo We were trying to emulate the lsquoappearancersquo of our Stateside BasePost Exchanges but knowing they would not know what they looked like I told him we need to make them look like SEARS we did not have Wal-Mart in those days
He and the others nodded and we went about working on the lsquofacadesrsquo of the scattered Service Facilities we had all over the Island On one occasion I invited lsquomy guysrsquo to our home for a cook out with homemade ice cream and Arkaki-san asked how I thought our efforts were coming along with the lsquolookrsquo as I called it I told him I was very pleased and more important so were our customers He then told me lsquoI am happy because none of us know this SEARS you talk about what does it look likersquo I learned a lesson that day lsquodonrsquot always assume your counterpart in a different country understands the word picture you are trying to sharersquo
But back to today the Exchange folks here continue with that lsquolook of homersquo approach The added franchise facilities like Chilirsquos Subway Popeyes Baskin Robbins and of course one of my favorites one of the original Exchange self-franchises Anthonyrsquos Pizza dates back to lsquomy daysrsquo
Being in a lsquoMilitaryrsquo Church I have had to opportunity to talk with many Military Families from the Air Force Army Ma-rines and Navy My lsquoMarinersquo friends will ask lsquowhy did not you list the Marines first we always arrive firstrsquo But I chose to list them alphabetically to not offend either of the branches They each are among the lsquofinestrsquo of the young men and women who serve our country I am proud to be with them even if only for a short while All I have met are lsquothrilledrsquo with the Ex-change Facilities on Okinawa In fact one Marine told me lsquoit is a touch of homersquo
So to the Exchange Family in Okinawa lsquoGreat Jobrsquo
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith (Continued)
In the News From a December 15 e-mail from Jim Henry ldquo In case you missed it Darren Woods son of Dale and Karen Woods was named today to be Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mo-bil Darren replaces Rex Tillerson who is being nominated for Secretary of State Dale and Karen hope you dont mind me bragging on Darren a little You must be awfully proud of himrdquo
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 19
IN REMEMBRANCE
ERENEO COPADA 89 Aug 20 in San Francisco CA The Presidio of San Francisco Safety and Security Assistant retired in 1998
DENNIS JONES 81 died July 12 in Dallas TX The Frankfurt General Manager retired in 1986
BILLY GILES 77 died Aug 10 in Red Oak TX The HQ Computer Systems analyst retired in 1995
Antoinette (Toni) Long 79 died Sept 4 in Hampton SC The Los Angeles AFB General Manager retired in 1992
THOMAS SAVAGEAU 79 died Aug 23 in Ajijic Jalisco Mexico The HQ Associate retired in 1989
JOHN SHARP 59 died May 12 in Ovilla TX The Europe Egion Area manager retired in 2013
PAUL TAFF 90 died Aug 21 in Arlington TX The HQ Associate retired in 1983
ROBERT WILLINGHAM 84 died Sept 28 in Dallas TX The HQ Associate retired in 1993
DOUGLAS WOODHOUSE 64 died Oct 1 in Mobile AL The HQ Management Analyst retired in 2006
Pag e 20 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
WILLS ldquoFrom time to time retired associates of AAFES leave be-quests to the AREA in their will If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that pre-pares your formally written and executed will with the follow-ing sample clause If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause I give (blank dollarsproperty) to the Army Air Force Ex-change Service Retired Employees Association (AREA) PO Box 380614 Duncanville Texas 75138
Other Chapter reported deaths
George John Vomvoris legendary AAFES Food amp Services Executive (76) passed
away on November 18 2016 with his family by his side in Waxahachie Texas
Also we received news that Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur who is well known as
the first female super rate in AAFES passed away at age 88 in early November
(See eulogy on pages 21-23 by Aubrey Rembold)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
I have not been able to verify the figures but I recall using population figures in the 1970rsquos of 300000 today that population exceeds 1300000 Okinawa has become Mainland Japanrsquos Hawaii resort Island
During our time here the enhanced security has required us to lsquoget a passrsquo for Pat as she does not have a CAC which I have to enter the Military Installations One of the Church members sponsored her allowing us to visit many of the Exchange Facili-ties Today Futenma Kadena Hansen Torii Schwab Foster and Kinser are the major facilities remaining on the Island
I remember in the 70rsquos sharing with my Okinawan counter parts the need for the Exchange Facilities to lsquolook like homersquo for the Americans They of course were willing to help but my Automotive Tech Rep Arkaki-san asked me lsquowhat does home look likersquo We were trying to emulate the lsquoappearancersquo of our Stateside BasePost Exchanges but knowing they would not know what they looked like I told him we need to make them look like SEARS we did not have Wal-Mart in those days
He and the others nodded and we went about working on the lsquofacadesrsquo of the scattered Service Facilities we had all over the Island On one occasion I invited lsquomy guysrsquo to our home for a cook out with homemade ice cream and Arkaki-san asked how I thought our efforts were coming along with the lsquolookrsquo as I called it I told him I was very pleased and more important so were our customers He then told me lsquoI am happy because none of us know this SEARS you talk about what does it look likersquo I learned a lesson that day lsquodonrsquot always assume your counterpart in a different country understands the word picture you are trying to sharersquo
But back to today the Exchange folks here continue with that lsquolook of homersquo approach The added franchise facilities like Chilirsquos Subway Popeyes Baskin Robbins and of course one of my favorites one of the original Exchange self-franchises Anthonyrsquos Pizza dates back to lsquomy daysrsquo
Being in a lsquoMilitaryrsquo Church I have had to opportunity to talk with many Military Families from the Air Force Army Ma-rines and Navy My lsquoMarinersquo friends will ask lsquowhy did not you list the Marines first we always arrive firstrsquo But I chose to list them alphabetically to not offend either of the branches They each are among the lsquofinestrsquo of the young men and women who serve our country I am proud to be with them even if only for a short while All I have met are lsquothrilledrsquo with the Ex-change Facilities on Okinawa In fact one Marine told me lsquoit is a touch of homersquo
So to the Exchange Family in Okinawa lsquoGreat Jobrsquo
lsquoA Touch of Homersquo by Don Smith (Continued)
In the News From a December 15 e-mail from Jim Henry ldquo In case you missed it Darren Woods son of Dale and Karen Woods was named today to be Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mo-bil Darren replaces Rex Tillerson who is being nominated for Secretary of State Dale and Karen hope you dont mind me bragging on Darren a little You must be awfully proud of himrdquo
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 19
IN REMEMBRANCE
ERENEO COPADA 89 Aug 20 in San Francisco CA The Presidio of San Francisco Safety and Security Assistant retired in 1998
DENNIS JONES 81 died July 12 in Dallas TX The Frankfurt General Manager retired in 1986
BILLY GILES 77 died Aug 10 in Red Oak TX The HQ Computer Systems analyst retired in 1995
Antoinette (Toni) Long 79 died Sept 4 in Hampton SC The Los Angeles AFB General Manager retired in 1992
THOMAS SAVAGEAU 79 died Aug 23 in Ajijic Jalisco Mexico The HQ Associate retired in 1989
JOHN SHARP 59 died May 12 in Ovilla TX The Europe Egion Area manager retired in 2013
PAUL TAFF 90 died Aug 21 in Arlington TX The HQ Associate retired in 1983
ROBERT WILLINGHAM 84 died Sept 28 in Dallas TX The HQ Associate retired in 1993
DOUGLAS WOODHOUSE 64 died Oct 1 in Mobile AL The HQ Management Analyst retired in 2006
Pag e 20 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
WILLS ldquoFrom time to time retired associates of AAFES leave be-quests to the AREA in their will If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that pre-pares your formally written and executed will with the follow-ing sample clause If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause I give (blank dollarsproperty) to the Army Air Force Ex-change Service Retired Employees Association (AREA) PO Box 380614 Duncanville Texas 75138
Other Chapter reported deaths
George John Vomvoris legendary AAFES Food amp Services Executive (76) passed
away on November 18 2016 with his family by his side in Waxahachie Texas
Also we received news that Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur who is well known as
the first female super rate in AAFES passed away at age 88 in early November
(See eulogy on pages 21-23 by Aubrey Rembold)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
IN REMEMBRANCE
ERENEO COPADA 89 Aug 20 in San Francisco CA The Presidio of San Francisco Safety and Security Assistant retired in 1998
DENNIS JONES 81 died July 12 in Dallas TX The Frankfurt General Manager retired in 1986
BILLY GILES 77 died Aug 10 in Red Oak TX The HQ Computer Systems analyst retired in 1995
Antoinette (Toni) Long 79 died Sept 4 in Hampton SC The Los Angeles AFB General Manager retired in 1992
THOMAS SAVAGEAU 79 died Aug 23 in Ajijic Jalisco Mexico The HQ Associate retired in 1989
JOHN SHARP 59 died May 12 in Ovilla TX The Europe Egion Area manager retired in 2013
PAUL TAFF 90 died Aug 21 in Arlington TX The HQ Associate retired in 1983
ROBERT WILLINGHAM 84 died Sept 28 in Dallas TX The HQ Associate retired in 1993
DOUGLAS WOODHOUSE 64 died Oct 1 in Mobile AL The HQ Management Analyst retired in 2006
Pag e 20 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
WILLS ldquoFrom time to time retired associates of AAFES leave be-quests to the AREA in their will If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing the person that pre-pares your formally written and executed will with the follow-ing sample clause If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the same address as in the clause I give (blank dollarsproperty) to the Army Air Force Ex-change Service Retired Employees Association (AREA) PO Box 380614 Duncanville Texas 75138
Other Chapter reported deaths
George John Vomvoris legendary AAFES Food amp Services Executive (76) passed
away on November 18 2016 with his family by his side in Waxahachie Texas
Also we received news that Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur who is well known as
the first female super rate in AAFES passed away at age 88 in early November
(See eulogy on pages 21-23 by Aubrey Rembold)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 21
Eulogy Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur
12 May 1928 - Nov 2016
By way of introduction I am Aubrey Rembold a 45+ years long co-worker co-
retiree and friend forever of Rosaliersquos At Rosaliersquos surprising request but then
she was full of surprises we sat together at my home in Little Elm Texas suburb
of Dallas in March 2012 and authored this Eulogy This was the ldquoRosalie wayrdquo
that we all experienced throughout her lifetime I told her that she was just
wanting to ldquoHave the Last Wordrdquo as always Of course she agreed
So just who was this wonderful lady we are assembled to remember Rosalie is
the daughter of Eva and Emil Stauffer she having been born on 12 May 1928 in
Fort Dodge Iowa Rosalie was preceded in death by her younger sister Donna
in 2003 and older brother Welden in 2004
Rosaliersquos life in Fort Dodge was short lived the family relocating to Ashland Oregon at her tender age of 2 frac12 yrs There
Rosalie completed her grade school Junior High and Ashland High School Education graduating with Honors in 1946
Itrsquos notable that Rosalie was Business Manager for Ashland High Schools ldquoRogue Newspaperrdquo Rosalie continued her
education completing one (1) year at Southern Oregon College Of interest is that Rosalie logged 2 frac12 years parttime
after school and weekend work with JC Penny during her High School Years
Serious employment began in 1948 when she became a full-time employee of the Trailways Bus Company as a Ticket
Agent Then lightening struck Rosalie met Richard La Fleur soon to become the ldquolove of her liferdquo when they married
on August 14th 1950 in Juarez Mexico Rosalie and Richard restated their vows in an Ashland Oregon Presbyterian
Church Ceremony a year later
Together Rosalie and Richard ran the Ticket Counter and Cafeacute for the Bus Company until Richard was recalled to
service by the military in 1950 A daughter Neva Lynne arrived on 7 September 1952 joining brother Richard and sis-
ter Marilyn followed almost immediately by the familyrsquos move to Portland International Air Base Oregon due to Rich-
ard Seniors military re-assignment
In 1953 Richard was assigned to Okinawa where military dependent housing was limited resulting in Rosalie and fam-
ily remaining stateside Rosalie Richard Marilyn and Neva relocated to Ashland living with Rosaliersquos father while
Richard was overseas Rosalie worked for Dr Marcus Woods as a Dental Assistant until Richard returned home in
1955 at which time they relocated to Spokane Washingtonrsquos Fairchild Air Force Base It is said that there is a time and
place for everything and so it was for Rosaliersquos ultimately amazing 33 years long AAFES Career as her super successful
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Career was launched at Fairchild
Probably unseen to Rosalie at the time her initial job with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service BX as a Snack
Bar Manager was but the ldquofirst rungrdquo on an unbelievable ldquoladder to a most storied careerrdquo She quickly received a
promotion into Retail Store Operations where she continued to excel during the period 1955 to 1959
In late 1959 Richard was again re-assigned to Okinawa however this was an ldquoaccompanied tourrdquo thus the entire fami-
ly were as off to Okinawa Rosaliersquos flawless performance in her prior AAFES positions resulted in AAFES placing her
in their Executive Management Program (EMP) which provides special on-the-job training for rapid advancement to
ever increasing responsible positions In Okinawa Rosalie was a Procurement Clerk subsequently becoming a Senior
Clothing Buyer for the exchanges a very difficult challenging tasking most especially in an oversea environment
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
Richard Senior departed Okinawa in 1964 to Stateside in an assignment as Officers Club Manager Brooks AFB Ala-
bama Rosalie and daughter Neva departed Okinawa in 1965 en-route to HONG KONG with Rosalie assigned as a buyer
in the AAFES Hong Kong Procurement Office Son Richard was still in the Air Force his having joined the AF on Au-
gust 17th 1964
As had become routine Rosalie was rapidly promoted to Chief Hong Kong Procurement Office Her responsibilities re-
quired that she procure and ship Hong Kong sourced merchandise to exchanges worldwide At the time her largest sin-
gle account was Exchanges in Vietnam a massive ever changing exchange operation serving a half million US Troops
As an illustration of the volume Rosalie consummated her ldquofirst Million Dollar single
purchaserdquo for a specific model of Seiko Watch destined for Vietnam This was only the
beginning as many more million dollar plus purchases followed
In early 1966 with Rosalie in Hong Kong Richard Senior was again transferred to Vi-
etnam for a short tour preparatory to his retirement with him subsequently retiring
from the military on July 31st 1966 He immediately went to work in sales for the Cana-
dian Club Spirits Company and was returned to Okinawa for his civilian job Son Rich-
ard was honorably discharged from the AF on August 16th 1968 and joined Rosalie and
Neva in Hong Kong Richard entered the University of Hong Kong completing a yearrsquos
studies Daughter Marilyn back home in Medford Oregon married Rusty Vaughn and
remained in Medford
Tragedy came into Rosalie and familyrsquos life with the unexpected death of husband Richard from a Heart Attack on No-
vember 17th 1968 Their marriage spanned eighteen (18) years
In July 1969 Rosalie reported to AAFES Headquarters in Dallas TX with yet another promotion that being Chief Soft-
lines for the Worldwide AAFES In this position she quickly recognized the need for ldquocentral receipt quality assurance
and distribution of Fashion Softlinesrdquo for the worldwide organization To this end she and the Assistant to the Command-
er AAFES developed and installed a Fashion Merchandise Distribution Center at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas which
Rosalie subsequently ran as its Chief inclusive of Diamond Jewelry Military Uniforms and Shoes being centrally distrib-
uted from a center in Atlanta GA These enormous operations grew and prospered under Rosaliersquos leadership In fact
the AAFES Fashion Distribution Center has become Rosaliersquos lsquolsquoLegacyrdquo It was and remains Rosaliersquos ldquofinest hourrdquo the
concept and operation having corrected so many prior weaknesses in the purchase receipt quality assurance and distri-
bution of Fashion Merchandise to AAFES stores around the world This concept is still used today and will most proba-
bly endure for all time Itrsquos truly a monumental achievement worthy of being the ldquoRosalie Legacyrdquo Her incredible suc-
cess produced another promotion that being Chief Western Distribution Region in January 1982
Commensurate with this new assignment Rosalie achieved the highest recognition ever bestowed upon an AAFES wom-
an to that point in time She was promoted to the Grade of UA 16 Special Rate the FIRST WOMAN IN AAFES TO EV-
ER REACH THIS RANK At the time AAFES employee strength was 93000 worldwide with there being only 16 per-
sons of this rank in the entire organization all of them MEN It was Rosaliersquos above and beyond performance that broke
thru the glass ceiling with her promotion to this highest AAFES employee rank Rosalie became an instant role model for
every woman employee in AAFES attaining an ldquoAAFES Celebrityrdquo status Rosalie broke the ice and now there are a half
dozen women holding this high rank Rosalie will truly always be remembered for her ldquotrailblazingrdquo performance
To assume her new Chief Western Distribution Region duties Rosalie relocated from Dallas to Oakland California
where she remained until 1984 Her superb performance in Oakland once again garnered for her yet another seemingly
impossible tasking ie that of merging the huge AAFES East and West Coast Distribution Centers During this process
Rosalie also spearheaded the design of three new super modern Distribution Warehouses all of which were completed and
operational before Rosalie retired in October 1986 after 33 years of superbly exceptional service to the Worldwide Army
and Air Force Exchange Service
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Pag e 22 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
Rosaliersquos ldquoBig Dayrdquo chosen by her personally was October 30th 1986 on which she formal-
ly retired after 33 years of unparalleled broad spectrum success in every job held during
her entire career She produced so many ldquofirstsrdquo for the organization that Rosalie is easily
in the 5 Top Performers male or female of all time in the AAFES organization
Her retirement ldquoGala Eventrdquo on 30 October 1986 at the Atlanta Marriott Ballroom saw
over 300 guests celebrating with Rosalie and her family The following day at a formal re-
tirement event the Commander AAFES Major General John E Long presented Rosalie
with her Official Certificate of Retirement FREE AT LAST FREE AT LAST
In retirement Rosalie has traveled performs volunteer work for her church and neighborhood Home Ownerrsquos Associa-
tion but most importantly makes time for enjoying her three children 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Rosalie should be ldquoclonedrdquo so the world is always blessed with a Rosalie LaFleur
In this life there is really only one aspect of a personrsquos life that endures and that is the ldquomemoriesrdquo one leaves for the
living Without question Rosalie lived her life in the manner our Lord and Savior wishes for all mere mortals to live and
as such she left a treasure chest full of comforting memories for all of us to remember in filling the void created by her
passing I know you all agree that Rosalie was loved and will always be loved hellipMay she rest in peace for all
eternity
Eulogy for Rosalie Lorraine Stauffer LaFleur (continued)
Christmas at the Weaverrsquos (continued from page 17)
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 23
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
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 LISA A MOAK (214) 312 4729
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 0730 am ndash 1000 am (no appointment needed) Appointments for a
time after 1030am can be arranged by emailing HQHROaafescom or calling Shahla Barakhshan HR Tech (214) 312-4292 Julie
Humphrey HR Tech (214) 312-6423 or Veneitra Colston-Mack HR Tech (214) 312-2531
Please ensure to bring your CACshopping privilege id card as well as a valid Federal or State ID to renew your CAC andor
shopping privilege ID card If your CAC is expired you will need to bring in two valid forms of Federal andor State IDrsquos
(such as a driverrsquos license US passport birth certificate original social security card)
Questions Jun King HQ Human Resources Manager - (214) 312-3677
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TOLL FREE SERVICE ndashMEMBER SERVICEs TOLL FREE US 800-247-5626
Monday - Friday 700 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time Saturday 800 am to 1100 pm Eastern Time
Sunday 900 am to 530 pm Eastern Time OVERSEAS DIRECT DIAL 541-225-6700
TTY (for the hearing impaired TOLL FREE US 800 225-6378
FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810
For other information check out the Exchange website at httpwwwshopmyexchangecom and the AREA website httpwwwaafescomabout-exchangeretired-employees-association
Pag e 24 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
PO Box 75138 Duncanville TX 75138
Note denotes non-AAFES retiree
denotes Non member of AREA
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 25
SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS
DONORS IN MEMORY OF Fred Schonwetter Stewart Fogelman $5000
Inga Brooks Dennis Jones $10000
Fumiko Hornby Kenneth and Aiko Thompson $10000
DONOR AS A GENERAL DONATION
Richard Mancinelli $50000
James Sawyer $10000
Karen Forsyth $100000
DFW Chapter of ALA $750000
Editorrsquos Note Patrick and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy New Year
Marcia Kane (2nd to the
left) is part of the White
Bluff Chapel choir located
on the White Bluff Resort in
TX There are about 50
members but we split up
into 5 smaller groups to go
caroling on December 16 to
homes of chapel members
The nativity display
under our Christmas
tree being visited by
our pet white dove
ldquoCooCoordquo May
peace reign in your
hearts the whole year
through
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM
To AREA PO Box 380614 Duncanville TX 75318-0614
From Telephone
This donation is (check one box below)
In Honor of (Name)
In Memory Of (Name)
An Annual Pledge
Other
Send Card to
NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
TELEPHONE
Amount of donation (check enclosed)
$
I wish to pledge $_________________ each year to the AREA Scholarship Fund My donation for the current year is enclosed
Your donation will be acknowledged to both the donor and to the recipient or the survivor All donations are income tax deductible
DONOR NAME (Printed) SIGNATURE
COMMENTS
Enclosure 6-1
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In honor of ____________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
In memory of __________________________________
IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO LIST USE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW
Pag e 26 January 2017 AREA NEW SLETTER
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES
NEW MEMBERS
LINDA GUY-SUMMERS 1221 Fairway Dr Chesapeake VA 23320 Tel 757-819-6944 summers18coxnet DEBBIE MCDONALD 111 South Hillside St Red Oak TX 75154 Debm012gmailcom DAVID A SMITH III 4728 Crawford Dr The Colony TX 75056 469-400-3215 73 smithdagmailcom DAVID BLISS 1017 N New Rd Waco TX 76710 254-756-0865 davidbslowleakaolcom LIESELOTTE J BILLMAN 3017 Emory St Columbus GA 31903 706-689-7402 NANCY VICUNA 3220 W Park Creek Dr Meridian ID 83642 208-602-5323 nkvicunayahoocom THOMAS A HARRIS JR 2618 Blan St Columbus GA 210-414-5048 Thomasaharrisjrmsncom
TELEPHONE E-MAIL CHANGES CECIL STELLYES 24827 107th Ave SE Kent WA 98030 253-236-5949 Cecilofkentcomcastnet EMAIL CHANGES
AUDREY EARLY 1894 Overwood Dr Frisco TX 75034 audreyearlyyahoocom
ADDRESS CHANGES
ALICE KONDRAT
37 Coles Apt 305
N Hampton MA 01060
JOSEPH A ROBINSON
755 Pocaset Dr
Ellijay GA 30540
706-698-7419
Mj5jm5newhotmailcom
GARY ARENTZ
Anne Clardy-Spouse
3331 Spring Valley Dr
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
2214-288-7217
Gary4b2agmailcom
ELLA J MCKINNEY
1324 Greenstone Ct
Columbus GA 31906
706-565-7204
mizjaynebellsouthnet
CHERYL DECK
112 Fox Home Lane
Georgetown TX 78633
254-547-8510
Cdeck3hotrrcom
JOAN BOUTWELL
1633 County Road 3569
Dike TX 75437
972-274-2200
Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory
AREA NEW SLETTER January 2017 Pag e 27
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PAID
DALLAS TX
PERMIT 1478
AAFES Retired Employees Association
PO Box 380614
Duncanville TX 75138-0614
DUES ALERT If the last time you renewed your dues was in December 2016 or earlier
please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA
at the mailing address shown above Note Dues increase to $17 on February 1 2017
AAFES Retired Employees Association Help Us Save Money Get the Newsletter online
rather than through the mail
The difference in cost is significant and yoursquoll enjoy these advantages
Get the Newsletter first before anyone else E-mail is faster than snail-mail
The Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format is in color and you can transfersave the file as you desire
Per copy print cost at $142 + mailing at $057 = $199 cost per copy Do yourself and AREA a favor ndash try the Newsletter via e-mail attachment
Here is what one member said ldquoThe e-mail edition is superb Easy to read brilliant colors etc I canrsquot say enough about it and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try
Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver Membership Director at ken-patsbcglobalnet and state that you would like to get the Newsletter on line and wersquoll do the rest Give it a try If you donrsquot like it we can always add you back to the snail-mail list
AREAmdashJUST FOR YOU
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PERMIT 1478