NewsletterNewsletter AAFES Retired Employees Association Supporting the Interests of AAFES, Its...

Newsletter

AAFES Retired Employees Association

Supporting the Interests of AAFES, Its Retirees and the People it Serves

January 2015

If you were around AAFES in 1975 or 1995, you may recall some of

the celebrations for the 75th or 100th anniversaries. Would you be-

lieve, it will soon be 20 years after that big celebration? In July, the

Exchange will celebrate 120 years of service and support for Sol-

diers, Airmen, retirees and their families—a milestone few organiza-

tions reach. In his article beginning on page 10, Exchange Director

Tom Shull addresses Exchange retirees concerning this next anniver-

sary: ―We reached this milestone in part because of you. Your dedi-

cation, determination and passion for customers set the organiza-

tion‘s rich tradition of providing a taste of home to the troops, no

matter where they serve.‖ Read the full article that will bring you up-

to-date on what went on at the Exchange in 2014 and what‘s coming

up in this important anniversary year.

We’re aging along with the Exchange, which will celebrate its 120th anniversary in 2015

Dallas ALA presents check for AREA Scholarship Program

At the Dallas ALA Holiday Luncheon on December 12, Bill Doyle, President of Dallas chapter (center) presented a $10,000 check in support of the Exchange/AAFES Scholarship Program to Chuck Poffenbarger, AREA President (right) and Tom Gal-lagher AREA Board Member/Scholarship Chairman (left). See page 14 for an update on the Scholarship Program and plans for 2015 by Tom Gallagher.

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

January 2014 AREA NEW SLETTER

For some time now, we have been a shrinking organization. We‘re only about ½ the size in number of chapters and total

membership as when I became board president in 2003, and we continue to get smaller each and every year. As of November of

this year, we had 18 active chapters and 7 informal chapters. Informal chapters are not chartered but members still get together

from time-to-time for luncheons and other events to share friendships and renew acquaintances. AREA dues paying members

are now 1,329, with 182 receiving the Newsletter via email attachment.

Our scholarship fund is in good condition due, in great part, to the Townsend Trust income we have been receiving for sev-

eral years now. However, income from the trust has about run its course. In 2013, our General Fund lost $6,613.87. This year,

thru September, our loss has been $882.52. The improved condition is due to two factors: (1) we didn‘t publish a membership

directory, as we did last year, and (2) investment income has improved. We have $54,044.29 in investments which have in-

creased as the stock market has improved. With the losses these past several years, though, that won‘t last very long.

Income from the General Fund is used to pay operational expenses of AREA. The expense for printing and delivery of the

quarterly Newsletter represents 88.7% of our total income. We all like the Newsletter, and Larry Phillips, Editor, does a re-

markable job of selecting information that members want and putting the editions together four times a year. As you can see on

page 3 of this Newsletter, though, Larry would like to spend more time pursuing his other interests. He has edited the Newslet-

ter for 15 years, long enough for any volunteer. When Larry leaves, which will be in the foreseeable future, we‘ll have to dis-

continue the Newsletter if we don‘t get a volunteer replacement. That‘s the harsh reality of AREA at the moment.

There are three issues that require immediate attention if our organization is to continue to function as it currently does.

Our General Fund needs more income. Some chapter people join AREA also but we need more. AREA dues for

member and spouse are $15/year, a rather nominal amount. See our web site for details: http://www.aafes.com/

about-exchange/retired-employees-association/

We need a replacement for Larry as the AREA Information Director. It‘s an interesting volunteer opportunity, al-

lowing full use of creativity. Of course, you won‘t have to do all of the Newsletter work alone. There are three

people, who always help out, and chapters and others who submit articles for publication. Also, you don‘t need to

be in Dallas. Newsletter details can be sent and received via email.

We need more people to sign up for receipt of the Newsletter via email attachment rather than receiving it in the

mail. It will save us a lot of money.

AREA is an organization rooted in the printed word (or newsletter in this case), and the slow move on the part of member-

ship to receiving the newsletter online is just one example. We do have a presence on the web thanks to an AAFES Associate

who kindly devotes some of his time to updating our website but he can‘t do much more than that. His day job occupies most of

his time.

If you have ideas for helping us, we would like to hear them. The AREA Board of Directors will be discussing all these top-

ics at the spring meeting, and we would like to include your input. Send your suggestions to me at [email protected].

Don‘t assume that someone else will do it. It may be too late for that.

AREA Update

AREA NEW SLETTER January 2014

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

[email protected]

Tel: (972) 296-0388

FAX: (972) 692-5176

Membership & Address Changes:

Send your NEWSLETTER ADDRESS

and MEMBERSHIP changes and your

MEMBERSHIP DUES to the AREA

Membership Director Pat Weaver.

[email protected]

Tel: (972) 780-9810

Newsletter input: Submit articles for the newsletter to the

editor by e-mail to Newsletter Editor:

Larry E. Phillips

[email protected]

[email protected]

AREA Web address:

www.shopmyexchange.com/community/area

AREA Information Director Opening:

Do you like to write and would you like to develop and manage a quarterly

publication? Why not consider becoming editor of the AREA Newsletter?

You'll also become a voting member of the AREA Board in the position of In-

formation Director. It‘s an interesting volunteer opportuni-

ty, allowing full use of creativity. Of course, you won‘t

have to do all of the work alone. There are three people,

who always help out, and chapters and others who submit

articles for publication.

You don‘t need to be in Dallas. Newsletter information and

details can be distributed via email.

To learn more, contact AREA‘s current Information Director, Larry Phillips at

[email protected]. Larry will be glad to go through the process with you.

For details on the Information Director‘s position, go to http://

www.shopmyexchange.com/Community/AREA/board_membership.htm.

2015 COLA = 1.5%

Retirement Annuity # of Months

Retired

COLA Increase

%

Start Date Year

December (or prior) 2013 12 1.7%

January 2014 11 1.6%

February 2014 10 1.4%

March 2014 9 1.3%

April 2014 8 1.1%

May 2014 7 1.0%

June 2014 6 0.9%

July 2014 5 0.7%

August 2014 4 0.6%

September 2014 3 0.4%

October 2014 2 0.3%

November 2014 1 0.1%

December 2014 0 0.0%

The 2015 COLA increase is 1.7%

effective with the 01 Dec 2014 pen-

sion payments.

Retirees with an annuity start date

of 01 Dec 2013 or before will re-

ceive the entire 1.7% increase, and

those who have an annuity start date

after 01 Dec 13 will receive a pro-

rated COLA as shown in the chart at

right.

Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) Set at 1.7%


YOUR EXCHANGE BENEFITS…

Save on your lab work with in-network lab benefits Make sure your lab is in network

There‘s an easy way to save on out-of-pocket costs, and it‘s one

you might not even think about: getting lab work done in-

network. With our health plan, you can save big on lab services

at thousands of labs across the nation, as long as you make sure

all your testing is done at a lab in the Aetna network.

Two ways to make sure you save:

Is your doctor collecting your sample in the office?

Ask that it be sent to a participating lab.

Is your doctor sending you to a lab for the testing? Ask for a lab requisition form to an in-network lab.

This lets you go to a lab in Aetna‘s network.

And it‘s always a good idea to call Aetna Member Services at the

number on your ID card. You can check to make sure the lab is

in network.

Find a network lab

Your doctor might not know which lab saves you the most mon-

ey on lab work. But, as long as youknow which labs are in-

network before you go, you can share this information with your

doctor. Here‘s how you fine one.

Go to www.aetna.com

Call the Member Services number on your ID card.

Quest Diagnostics is the preferred network lab that offers you

other advantage

Convenience: Visit www.questdiagnostics.com for online ap-

pointment scheduling. This moves you to the front of the line

when you arrive.

Lower Prices: Lower your out-of-pocket costs and put the sav-

ings where they belong-in your pocket.

Nearby locations: With thousands of locations nationwide, you

can find one close to you.

Watch the mail for your

new Aetna medical ID card

In 2015, all DoD NAF employees and spouses/same-sex

domestic partners enrolled in the DoD NAF HBP will

receive a new Aetna ID card in the mail. Make sure your

NAF employer has your correct mailing address so you

will receive your card. Your new ID card will show up-

dated plan information, so be sure to destroy your old ID

card.

Bring and show your new card to your doctor during your

first visit in 2015.

Remember: You can always login to Aetna Navigator to

print off a temporary ID card or order additional cards.

Where to get your flu shot You can get your flu shot from your doctor or one of Aetna‘s contracted flu shot providers. You can log in to your secure member

website at www.aetna.com to locate a provider.

Click on ―Find a Doctor, Dentist or Facility.‖ Search for ―Find a Flu Shot/Vaccine Provider.‖ These providers accept our coverage.

Just show your ID card.

For more information, call the number on your ID card with any questions., For information about flu prevention, visit the Centers

for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website at http://www.cdc.gov/flu.

Benefits Q&A

Q. I carry Medicare part A & B. I was told by some retir-

ees that we don‘t need to carry Part B as Aetna covers all

medical expenses associated with Part B services. So, Part

B is not required for us?

A. No, it‘s not true. Here is what the Plan says: The

Plan‘s benefits are calculated as though you have enrolled

in Part B – whether or not you’ve actually enrolled.

This is why it‘s important to enroll in Part B as soon as

you become eligible for it. In other words, Aetna will not

pay for any portion of claims that Medicare should be paying. They will only pay the amount after what Medi-

care would pay and if someone isn‘t carrying Medicare

then that person would be charged the amount Medicare

would have paid.


CHAPTER HAPPENINGS

Aloha Chapter—Phillip Roach, President, Aloha Chapter, welcomed everyone to the chapter‘s annual Christmas party on Sun-

day, December 7. This years‘ party was held at the Pearl Country Club, overlooking Pearl Harbor, where an excellent Prime Rib

luncheon buffet was enjoyed by 45 members and guests. Special guests attending this year‘s event were Bruce Leudke and Mike

Jones of Dallas, Texas who happened to be winding up a 10 day vacation to Hawaii.

Lester Tokuhisa and Bill Allgire co-emceed this years‘ event and welcomed two new members to the chapter – Robert Boggs and

Billy Woods. After a social hour with pupus, furnished by chapter members, and lunch, a program of games, trivia, door prizes

and a grab bag was enjoyed. This year‘s big winners in the door prize category were Margaret Itai and Lani Aki, both winning

$50 each. Other attendees winning door prizes each won either $10 or $20 each. The Chapter‘s traditional Grand Prize drawings

for $100 each winners were Margaret Itai, Francis Hillhouse and Thelma Teijeiro.

The success of this function is attributed directly to the involvement of chapter members Pauline Ung, Adrienne and Gary

Hamada, Milt and Linda Shimizu, Rose Kawata, Charlotte Roach and Marlene Tokuhisa. All attendees left filled with the

Holiday Spirit and looking forward to the Spring luncheon.

—Bill Allgire

Willa Gardner and Billy Wood

Mel and Jan Santana

Lani Aki, Rochelle and Julia Davis

Denis and Sandy Keating

Margaret Itai and Alice Suma

Ardell Katsura, Roy Miura, Gwen Goo

Margaret Hasegawa and Joan Itai

Lynda Tanaka, Bill Allgire, Mary Ann Asato

Lynn and Roy Schneider Adrienne Hamada and Rose Kawata

Pauline Ung and Phil Roach

Elaine Takahashi and Gwen Goo

Marlene Tokuhisa and Linda Shimizu Mary Ann Asato and

Wendell Wong

Mike Jones and Margaret Hasegawa


Alamo Chapter—The Alamo Chapter's Annual Holiday Brunch was held on Sunday, December 14, at the Menger Hotel on the

beautiful San Antonio Riverwalk with 73 people attending. Following a great buffet brunch, drawings were held for several restau-

rant gift cards.

The chapter also raised $350 for the local Fisher House. Every year Bob Askew checks to see what they need and purchases it for

them. Each member also brought unwrapped toys for "Toys for Tots". Once again, Lee Rux worked with the Marines to get these

toys to them.

—Brenda Borland

Diane Gross, Bette Rohrer, Tom Gross, Mike Rohrer, Ken Klein, B Klein, Ruth Lown, Lois Lown, Rick Forsyth and Yolanda Guardianain

Joe Gray (in front) Shown from left -Javier Cerna, Marilyn Cerna, Patty

Vinson, Bob Vinson, Anita Roberts, Ann Pauleuc, Bilge Cordani, Jane

Mason and Kathy Gray

From left: Song Choe, Roy Hines, Bren-da Borland, Makayla Morton, Melissa Hines, Christian Hines, Jennifer Hines, Christopher Hines, 2-year-old Emily

Len Freitas and Rhoda Freitas (not

shown 2 -month-old Emily).

From left: Katrina Forsch, Christopher Forsch, Dan

Forsch, Kit Mathews, Jerry Mathews

In Santa hat—Tim Brogan; clockwise from left: Helga Main, Kathy Stovall, Violet Stricker, Gary Eells, Nina Eells, Gordon Eells, Dolf Goldsmith and Ann Brogan

Gail Evans, clockwise to the left, Steve

Evans, Christine Clore, David Clore,

D'shawn Guest, Mona Guest, Earlie

Guest, Virginia Askew, Bob Askew

From left: Aurora Alvarez, Javier Alvarez, Bill Dobbs, Tracie Lightweaver, Sophia lightweav-er, Esther Lightweaver, Tony Trevino and Ella Trevino

Becky Moore (in red blouse) clockwise from left: Susan Deleo,

Lina"Kitty"Deleo, Mike Bresnok, Shan-non Soefje, Mark Porter, Kathy Jackson,

Judy Rux and Judy Rux

CHAPTER HAPPENINGS


Alamo Chapter —The ladies of the Alamo Chapter had their Christmas luncheon at the

home of Brenda Borland on December 10. They dined on chicken piccata, Asian pork roast

and Italian meat balls with several side dishes. Gifts were exchanged with a lot of smiles

and laughter.

The men of the Alamo Chapter also had their luncheon on December 10 at a local restau-

rant. Javier Cerna, Tony Trevino, Tim Brogan, Bill Dobbs, Roy Hines, Len Freitas and Song

Choe attended the luncheon.

—Brenda Borland

Ladies’ Luncheon (top photo)

Standing from Left to Right: Rosie Laporte, Bilge Cordani, Kathy Jackson, Mona Guest, Mari-

lyn Cerna, Ann Pauleuc, Virginia Askew, Rhoda Freitas and Janice Dobbs. Seated in the

front: Ella Trevino, Sylvia Cooper, Anh Kaufmann, Ann Brogan and Brenda Borland.

Fiddler on the Roof (bottom photo)

The Alamo Chapter saw Fiddler on the Roof at The Playhouse on 1 December. From the

left: Walter Hagan, Anh Kaufmann, Ann Brogan, Rhoda Freitas, Len Freitas, Ella Trevino,

Tony Trevino, Song Choe Bob Askew and Virginia Askew. Not shown Brenda Borland

North Texas Chapter—83+ attended the NTC AREA Membership Appreciation Luncheon at Babe's Chicken Dinner House in Car-rolton TX. Rich Sheff reported ―we had a spectacular meal...great food and service...spirited conversation by AAFES Alumni.‖

CHAPTER HAPPENINGS


Rudy’s BBQ October 14 group photo

Fort Hood--Fort Hood Exchange retirees met at the Taiwan Dragon for lunch on August 19. Our October Luncheon was at at

Rudy's BBQ, and then we had a Thanksgiving luncheon at The Shilo Inn restaurant for November. We had our December meeting

at Olive Garden.

--Barbara Mims

Group picture at the Thanksgiving luncheon in November.

Group Photo at the Taiwan Dragon

Susan Brooks (former MCSS mgr) and

Debra Jantek (former Main Store mgr) Robinn Parker (former GM secretary)

Barbara Mims( former LMS oper-

ator) and Bill King( former re-

ceiver)

Kathryn Mackey( former WHSE Re-

ceiver) Barbara Mims (former LMS

operator) and Margaret Simmons

(former sales associate)

Marge Eddlemon (former VM associate) and

Cheryl Deck (former training co-ordinator)

Shilo Inn Thanksgiving luncheon.

Viola Perry (former SAM) her husband and

Liz Robinson (former LMS operator)

CHAPTER HAPPENINGS


Dix-McGuire Chapter--The Dix-McGuire AAFES Retirees‘ Association 2014 Christmas Luncheon was held at Charley‘s Other

Brother, in Mount Holly, on December 10.We had a great turnout, with 44 of our members were in attendance, to include six first

timers: Elaine Brown, Erna Jackson, Barbara Robinson, Sylvia Spikes, Richard Schmelia and his spouse.

We were entertained with Caribbean style

Christmas music by Jeff Moolchan, hus-

band of our retiree member Sandra Mool-

chan, which added a new accent to our

event. Jeanette Carter, Reiko Williams and

Fran Stanley donated door prizes. In addi-

tion beautiful table center pieces selected

by our President Betty O‘Brien, were raf-

fled. We had many very happy lucky win-

ners. The luckiest winner was Eloise Wal-

ters who won the 50/50. In lieu of our an-

nual Pollyanna, $197.00 donations were

received to brighten our sick and shut-in

members'‘ Christmas with flowers/fruit

baskets. Our Christmas Luncheon was a

very successful affair; everyone had a great

time and already looking forward to our

next luncheon on March 11, 2015. The Dix-McGuire AAFES Retirees Association wishes you and yours a Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year.

—Fran Stanley

Golden Gate Chapter—Sixteen members and family met on November

5, 2014 at Sinbad's in San Francisco for the November luncheon. The

luncheon schedule for first half of 2015 was announced, and the locations

are distributed widely through out the Bay Area. We hope members will

join us when the luncheon is in their area. The Christmas Luncheon will

be on Saturday, December 6, at the Spinnaker Restaurant in Sausalito.

Stanlee Gariott and Toni De Bardeleben

Noble Emery, Carol Beatty, Neil Burns and San-

dra Westfall.

Marion and Val Grohoski with

Buddy under the table

Lorraine Harris, Mary Lou

Geimer and Iyoko Pao Chick Kretz, Helen Maier, Julia Lee, Ernie

Kodama and Noble Emery

Val Grohoski, Arlene Hadfield and

Helen Maier

CHAPTER HAPPENINGS


By Tom Shull

Exchange Director/CEO

Happy New Year! The start of a new year

is an ideal time for me and the Exchange

team to reflect on the challenges and suc-

cesses of past 12 months. It‘s also an op-

portunity for me to look at what‘s in store

for the future. Throughout 2014, the Ex-

change took steps to ensure the organiza-

tion continues its enduring mission to

make the lives of Soldiers and Airmen

better through goods and services offered.

As we support troops around the world,

drawdowns continue to impact operations.

The number of active-duty Army, Air

Force, Navy and Marine Corps will de-

crease from a peak

of 1.41 million in

2010 to a projected

1.32 million by

2018—a 7 percent

decrease. The Ex-

change will be dis-

proportionately af-

fected by these cuts

because 83 percent

will come from the

Army.

This is compound-

ed by the draw-

downs in Afghani-

stan. In the Afghan

contingency enroll-

ment, the Exchange serves many custom-

ers we don‘t normally serve on a daily

basis: Reservists, Guardsmen, allied troops

and contractors. That decade-long opera-

tion, supported by the Europe region, is

coming to a near-close.

As a result, we have reduced our footprint.

This decrease in our customer base coin-

cides with customer shifts throughout the

retail industry as more and more people

turn to online shopping vs. brick-and-

mortar stores.

To ensure the Exchange remains relevant

during challenging times for both the mili-

tary and the retail industry, the team and I

focused on strategic priorities throughout

2014 and will continue to do so in 2015

and beyond. Key initiatives include im-

Tom Shull is the Director/CEO of the

Army & Air Force Exchange Service.

Army & Air Force Exchange Service Director/CEO Tom Shull meets

with Executive Administrator Denise Hunter. The Exchange’s stra-

tegic priorities gained momentum throughout 2014.

As troops deply to western Africa to combat the Ebola ephidemic, the Exchange is pre-

paring to set up contingency locations there More than 400 Exchange associates volun-

teered to deploy to support the troops in Africa in their mission.


proving the shopping experience for

customers last year, including increas-

ing the national brands in Main Stores

and beefing up options at the Express

(Shoppette),

The Exchange continued to bring the

top brands shoppers crave last year,

adding 195 concept shops across Hard-

lines, Softlines and Consumables. The-

se brands include Michael Kors, Tom-

my Hilfiger, Disney, Samsung, Bare

Minerals and Bobbi Brown.

At Express locations worldwide, we

added island coolers in 2014 featuring

grab-and-go foods that appeal to today‘s

busy shopper. In September, Express loca-

tions launched the ―What‘s for Dinner?‖

program aimed at bringing in shoppers

from 3 to 8 p.m. Different meals are fea-

tured at promotional prices to entice shop-

pers to pick up a meal for dinner, which is

typically a slower time at the Express.

In 2014, the Exchange gave shoppers addi-

tional reasons to visit the installations. At

Fort Bliss and Fort Meade, we opened the

organization‘s first Boston Market restau-

rants. And, we continued to improve the

quality of life for customers by screening

first-run movies. Carrying first-run movies

is important to me. As a dependent coming

home from overseas in the 1960s, I re-

member being disappointed that base thea-

ters were showing only six-week-old mov-

ies. The Exchange‘s partnership with Para-

mount, Sony and Disney has allowed for

first-run screenings of ―Teenage Mutant

Ninja Turtles,‖ ―The Equalizer‖ and

―Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No

Good, Very Bad Day.‖ This month, Ex-

change theaters will show first-run screen-

ings of Sony‘s ―The Wedding Ringer.‖

Our partnerships with these studios are

strong, and we will continue to offer first-

run films throughout 2015.

With the focus on increasing convenience

to our active duty troops as well as those

living far from the installations, we rolled

out a new shopping website—our first ma-

jor overhaul in a decade. The updated site

is designed to offer easier navigation,

greater product selection and better ser-

vice. Shopmyexchange.com is more than

website—it‘s a key part of military quality

of life. While the launch was not without

its challenges, shoppers have responded

positively, and demand at shop-

myexchange.com has increased.

In fact, some of you may have experienced

above-normal wait times when trying to

speak with a customer service representa-

tive, and I apologize for the inconvenience.

When all is said and done, we will have a

first-class online shopping experience that

exceeds expectations. I value your support

as we work through technical issues relat-

ed to setting up the new site.

The website is a key part of another im-

portant initiative. During 2014, the Ex-

change made strides in what I consider to

be a game changer for the organization—

offering online shopping benefits to honor-

ably discharged veterans. Many Soldiers

and Airmen who are not qualified to shop

the Exchange have deployed multiple

times into combat and have sacrificed

much. They should have some tangible

benefit when they leave. Opening up shop-

mexchange.com to these veterans is a sim-

ple gesture and a substantial way to thank

them for their service.

This initiative would cost the Exchange

very little—all that‘s required is an excep-

tion to Department of Defense policy. Giv-

ing online shopping benefits to honorably

discharged veterans would significantly

add to the Exchange‘s customer base, and

as a result, would increase earnings and the

dividend to Morale, Welfare and Recrea-

tion programs. It‘s a win-win-win, and I

look forward to making progress on this

initiative in 2015.

Speaking of next year, the Exchange is

expected to complete the design of its first

entertainment center at Fort Bragg‘s North

Post. The entertainment center will house

multiplex theaters for first-run movies and

fast-casual restaurants. (Army MWR has

passed primacy for fast-casual restaurants

to the Exchange for installations on which The first Boston Market at a military installation opened at Fort Bliss in October. Eight

more Boston Market locations are planned for 2015.

Express locations worldwide added island coolers

in 2014, giving shoppers easy access to grab-and-

go fare.

In 2014, the Exchange continued to bring

name brands such as Michael Kors into

the Main Store.


Name-brand cosmet-

ics such as bareMiner-

als also attracted

shoppers to the Ex-

change in 2014.

Brand names such

as Disney continued

to drive shoppers

into the Exchange

in 2014.

an entertainment center will be located.)

Construction at Fort Bragg‘s expected to

take 16 months. We have identified 26

Army and Air Force installations for future

entertainment centers and will trim the list

to those that provide the highest return on

investment.

We are adding additional dining options in

2015. The Exchange is focused on opening

Chick-fil-A restaurants overseas, with the

first one set to open by the end of 2015 at

the Kaiserslautern Military Community

Center. We are in discussions to add eight

Boston Markets, and a location at Fort

Hood is set to open around March 2015.

In July, the Exchange will celebrate 120

years of service and support for Soldiers,

Airmen, retirees and their families—a

milestone few organizations reach. We

reached this milestone in part because of

you. Your dedication, determination and

passion for customers set the organiza-

tion‘s rich tradition of providing a taste of

home to the troops, no matter where they

serve.

As you well know, part of providing this

support means Exchange associates give

up the comforts of their own homes and

families to deploy to austere locations

alongside America‘s heroes. And, nearly

120 years after the Exchange began, our

passion for serving Soldiers and Airmen

remains steadfast.

Recently, the military asked the Exchange

to prepare to set up contingency locations

in western Africa to squelch the Ebola

outbreak. We needed 12 volunteers to de-

ploy after the first of the year—and more

than 400 associates volunteered. This is an

amazing testament to the Exchange‘s com-

mitment to serving customers wherever

they go.

Your own deploy-

ments over the

years continue to

inspire associates.

Those who volun-

teer follow your

example and pick

up where you left

off, carrying on

your passion for

supporting Sol-

diers and Airmen.

In fact, 26 associ-

ates are deploying

this month to in-

ventory merchandise in Afghanistan, Ku-

wait and other contingency locations.

Besides the health of the organization, I

know the health of the retirement fund is

important to you. The Exchange‘s pension

and investment group is responsible for

the management of three funds: the basic

pension plan; the Executive Management

Program (EMP) pension plan; and the

retiree medical plan.

The continued strong financial perfor-

mance of the Exchange means the pension

plan is well-funded, and the pension plan

for EMPs is over-funded by a small

amount. Like most organizations, we are

keeping a close watch on healthcare costs

and the impact of those costs on the retiree

medical plan.

In closing, I thank you for your years of

dedication to serving Soldiers, Airmen,

retirees and their families. As we prepare

to celebrate 120 years of service to the

military community, your commitment

lives on and becomes an important part of

the Exchange‘s rich history. Best wishes

for a successful 2015.

Samsung and other top

electronics brand sprove

customers can count on the

Exchange to deliver a first-

class shopping experience.


The Army and Air Force Exchange Service took time from the No-vember 11 holiday to honor veterans for their service and sacrifice in serving our country. The 2014 Veteran‘s Day Parade in Down-town Dallas had an Exchange flavor this year with Exchange associ-ates and Exchange executives Mike Howard, and Mike Immler and Dale Harbour (new General Counsel) marching in the annual parade along with the Exchange Driver of the Year‘s big rig. Garry Watts, 2013 driver of the year, deftly steered his custom built Freightliner tractor and Hyundai trailer through the streets of Big D. Sandi Lute, active associate said, "There is nothing more heart-warming than seeing the Exchange's driver of the year, Gary Watts navigating his beautiful rig through the canyons of down town Dal-las! So proud to march in front of such an awesome associate!‖ There was also a Tactical Field Exchange (TFE) set up as a station-ary display in the Dallas City Hall Plaza. Here are a few photos

Exchange message to Vets: ‘Thank You for Serving”


Scholarship Program approved

to offer 12 awards, totaling $40,000 AREA has provided scholarship opportunities to ―AAFES Kids‖ for many years. Indeed, $624,295 in awards have been

made to 307 deserving students since the AREA scholarship program‘s inception in 1985. When awards are made in

2015, it will mark the 31st anniversary of the program: the only program designed to directly benefit AAFES employ-

ees‘ children.

In this and in upcoming AREA

Newsletters I‘ll talk about the

inner-workings of the AREA

Scholarship Program. In this

issue I‘ll discuss who is eligible

and how the number of scholar-

ships is determined and how the

corresponding amounts are set.

The program is limited to high

school seniors with one of the

parents having had at least

twelve consecutive months of

Exchange employment, or in the

case of military personnel, an

Exchange assignment is the re-

quirement. For a deceased par-

ent, the twelve-month employ-

ment requirement must have

been met at the time of death.

Applications must be sent to the

scholarship committee during

the designated enrollment peri-

od — usually January 1st

through March 31st of each

year. An application form is

available on the AREA web site

at: http://www.aafes.com/about-exchange/retired-employees-association/community-programs/publications.htm. The

same site sets out the specific requirements for making application, e.g., application period, minimum SAT and ACT

scores, etc. While application criteria are laid out on the web site, what goes on behind the scenes is not.

The AREA Board of Directors administers the program through an appointed AREA Scholarship Program Director, cur-

rently me, Tom Gallagher. The BoD lays out the parameters of the program each year. During its fall meeting, the board

designates the number of awards and corresponding scholarship amounts to be made in the upcoming year. This coming

year twelve awards amounting to $40,000 have been approved — two $5,000 and ten $3,000 awards.

Thomas Gallagher

AREA Scholarship Program Director


DOG GONE IT, VOTE FOR MARCIA

Candidates gathered for a last push in the November elections in New

Hampshire, and AAFES Retiree Marcia Moody was there for her sixth run

for election to the House of Representatives in New Hampshire. When

the votes were carried, Marcia’s constituents in Newmarket and Newfields

pulled the lever for her more often than her opponents, and she won an-

other term—for the sixth time. The sign on the dog reads: “Please Vote

Today. Dog Gone It!” Looks like somebody took his advice. Congratula-

tions to Marcia for taking it to the streets and being reelected to the State

House in New Hampshire.

Pat Weaver seems to fill every minute—every moment—of retirement in acts of

volunteerism and keeping busy with a myriad of activities in her hometown of

Duncanville. Now her efforts have been recognized in metropolitan Dallas with

an ―Every Moment Matters‖ award. She was one of 63 recipients of the awards

given by Presbyterian Communities and Services of North Dallas, which operates

two nationally recognized retirement communities in Dallas, and whose sphere of

influence in the community grows each year with the annual Each Moment Mat-

ters Luncheon and Awards. This was the fifth year for the awards. Pat joins

teachers, nurses, attorneys, pastors, entrepreneurs, wives, husbands, mothers,

fathers and children from through Dallas who have been honored for practicing

their labors of love and sharing. Attendees at the luncheon at the Dallas Anatole

Hotel were told, ―For each of the honorees, each day is a new opportuni-

ty...because Each Moment Matters.‖

Each honoree was recognized with a page and photograph in a book detailing

their achievements. The text on Pat‘s page begins:

―What is Pat Weaver‘s reason to get out of bed every morning? ‗God put me on

this earth to be a servant,‘ she says, ‗Volunteering is probably the most rewarding

and satisfying work I have ever done.‖ One of Pat‘s first forays into volunteer-

ism was a result of her number one hobby, ceramics. A neighbor saw her work-

ing in her backyard and asked if she would teach ceramics at the Duncanville

Hopkins Senior Center. That was 12 years ago, and of course, those twice-a-

week visits are about much more than creating beautiful art. As one of her long-

time students says of Pat, ‗She puts joy in everyone‘s heart.‘‖

Her award detailed her volunteer duties at Methodist Charlton Medical Center;

the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT),;American Heart Associa-

tion where she teaches CPR and first aid; operating shelters for hurricane victims

who came to North Texas; and Citizens Police Academy in Duncanville.

Summing up, the award says, ―Trust us, there‘s much more on Pat‘s current and

future to-do lists then we have time to list. As she says, ‗There‘s never a dull

moment. Life after retirement has been awesome!‘‖

In October AREA President Chuck Pof-fenbarger sent out an email to the Board of Directors proposing the October Board meeting to be on October 31. Pat Weaver, AREA Membership Director, wrote back and asked for a change of dates so she could attend a luncheon and receive an award. The Board meet-ing was moved up two days, and Pat also attended her luncheon. The story at right tells you about the latest honor she has received. Congratulations to Pat for bringing home this well-deserved award. She won it without having to mention her 16 years of dedicated service as AREA Membership Director.

Pat Weaver receives one of 63

Dallas-wide awards for volunteerism

Pat Weaver’s “official” photograph from the

Each Moment Matters awards program book.


SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS

DONORS IN MEMORY OF

Gary Deatherage C.B. Land $100.00

Gary Deatherage Tom Reagor $100.00

David Duffey Frank Kondikoff $100.00

North Texas Chapter Dale Bryan $500.00

North Texas Chapter John Hall, Frank Kondikoff, Betty Wil-liams, Frank Savarese, James Wiederkehr,Dick Rabb, Francis Sulli-van, and James Beachler

$500.00

Frank Cedeno Pat Cedeno $250.00

DFW Chapter of ALA** Annual Scholarship Donation $10,000

IN REMEMBRANCE

SHEILA BISHOP, 78, died August 17 in Homestead, FL.

The Patrick AFB Operations Clerk retired in 1993.

ILSE EUDAILEY, 82, died Aug. 31 in Colonial Heights, VA

The Fort Lee Warehouse Foreman retired in 1988.

GEORGE DODSON, 90, died Oct. 6 in Troy, Michigan. The

Hawaii Area Associate retired in 1973.

ROGER GRIGNON, 76, died March 25 in Killeen, TX. The

Fort Hood laborer retired in 2005.

CHARLES JENKINS 90, died July 27, in Melbourne, FL.

The Headquarters Associate retired in 1973.

WILLIAM JONES, 83, died Sept. 3 in Nokomis, FL. The

Exchange Chief of the Hawaii Field Office retired in 1989.

VIVIAN MCKEEHAN, 89, died Sept. 19 in Sacramento,

CA. The Travis AFB Food Activity Manager retired in 1992.

ELIZABETH HUSSEY, 87, died July 4 in Spanaway, WA.

The JB Lewis-McCord Food Activity Manager retired in 1986.

FRANK KONDIKOFF, 87, died May 10 in Court Ovilla,

TX. The Exchange Associate retired in 1974.

JOHN PASQUOTTO, 96, died July 11 in Boulder, CO. The

Pacific Region Associate retired in 1971.

MARK ROESSLER, 66, died Sept. 19 in Ann Arbor, MI.

The HQ Buyer retired in 2001.

LESTER STRENGER, 93, died Aug. 6 in Dallas, TX. The

HQ Executive retired in1975.

EMMA TULEY 93, died Sept. 22 in Austin, TX The Ex-

change Associate retired in 1983.

MAJOR GEN. BOBBY W. PRESLEY (USAF-Ret). 83,

died recently in San Antonio, TX. He commanded the Ex-

change from 1977-1979. The Air Force Retiree, who earned

his pilot‘s wings in 1954 and was assigned to Korea‘s Kunsan

AB, died Sept. 18. He retired from the service after winding

up his command at the Exchange on June 28, 1979.

―Our greatest challenges are maintaining a mix of viable

programs to promote customer activity and continuing rigid

controls over operating costs,‖ Gen. Presley told the Exchange

Post in 1977. ―This will permit us to continue providing

meaningful services to our customers, as well as to produce

the income necessary to live up to our requirements to sustain

the morale and recreation programs for each service. We will

continue to focus on the average customer – the married E-4, 5

and 6, who has two kids and a dog and is trying to rent a

house.‖

After his retirement, he worked as Vice President of Repub-

lic Bank of Oak Cliff in Dallas and then moved to San Antonio

to become a President of USAA. He is survived by his wife,

Karen; son, Rand West Presley; daughter, robin Wendy

Skogg; 10 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Burial

was at San Antonio‘s Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.

DON EMMONS, 74, of Midway, TX, died Saturday, Decem-

ber 6. He retired from AAFES after 34 years of service and

lived in Midway the past 26 years. He was a member of Grace

Christian Church where he headed the senior program, a mem-

ber of the Tri-County Protective Service, a board member of

Midway Museum, a member of the LCPC, volunteer AARP

driver training instructor, and mayor of Midway for four

years.

He is preceded in death by his son, Darrin Emmons and

grandson, Jordan Emmons.Survivors include his wife of 27

years, Jeanne Emmons; a son, Stuart Emmons of Los Angles;

and grandchildren, Brandon Emmons, Darrin Emmons, and

Alyssa Emmons.

Note: * denotes non-AAFES retiree **denotes Non member of AREA


USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS

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

HQ SWITCHBOARD

(214) 312-2011

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

GENERAL COUNSEL:

COLONEL ERIC E. WEISS, USAF (214) 312-3126

EXCHANGE POST: BARBARA KIRSCH (214) 312 3831

SALES TABLOIDS: DEBBIE BYERLY (800) 733-5142

ID CARD, PRIVILEGES HR-L/H Servicing Personnel Office (214) 312-3330

ID Cards issued Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 7:30-10 a.m.

DOD VEHICLE STICKERS:

DOD stickers are issued in AD from 7:30-11 a.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

AAFES FEDERAL CREDIT UNION: TOLL FREE SERVICE NORTH AMERICA (800) 452-7333

UNITED KINGDOM 0800-89-7490 GERMANY 0130-81-1187

FOR OTHERS NOT LISTED: PAT WEAVER (972) 780-9810

For other information, check out the AAFES website at: http://www.shopmyexchange.com and the AREA website http://www.shopmyexchange.com/community/area


AREA SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONATION FORM

To: AREA P.O. 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

75138-0614

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

*

*

*

*


AREA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY UPDATES

Save this page with your copy of the 2013 AREA Directory

If you wish to include AREA in your will...

―From time to time retired associates of AAFES leave bequests to the AREA

in their will. If you desire to make such a bequest we recommend providing

the person that prepares your formally written and executed will with the fol-

lowing sample clause. If you make such a bequest please notify AREA at the

same address as in the clause."

"I give (blank dollars/property) to the Army Air Force Exchange Service

Retired Employee's Association (AREA), P.O. Box 380614, Duncanville,

Texas 75138."

New Members

FLOYD ADAMS 7325 Wooded Acres Trail Mansfield, TX 76063 817-478-5006 DEBBIE A. FLORES 1136 Warren Rd. Lorena, TX 76655 254-744-6827 [email protected] KENNETH MOON 1305 Bellefonte ln Colleyville, TX 76034 817-421-4876 [email protected] HARRY JOHNSON 156 County Rd. #622 Etowah, TN 37331 423-263-2186 [email protected]

Telephone Changes GARY SMITH 478 Eagle Brook Ct. Debary, FL 32713 386-668-1757 LARRY GREWELLE 2451-B Price St. Montgomery, AL 36111 334-613-9112 DONALD LINK 1007 Lake Pl. # H7 Louisville, KY 40222 502-690-4056

Address Changes JOHN RAKESTRAW 502 Villa Creek Dr. Duncanville, TX 75137 RALPH DRISCOLL 7452 Spring Village Dr. Apt. 516 Springfield, VA 22150 FRED BARNETT 1304 E. Scandinavian Ct. Granbury, TX 76048 817-573-3282 [email protected]

Email Changes CAROL ADAMS 7325 Wooded Acres Trl. Mansfield, TX 76063 817-478-5006 [email protected]


Help Us Save Money!

Get the Newsletter online rather than through the mail.

The difference in cost is significant*, and you’ll enjoy these advantages:

Get the Newsletter first—E-mail is faster than snail-mail.

The Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) format is in color and you can

transfer/save the file as you desire.

*Per copy print cost at $1.42 + mailing at $0.57 = $1.99 cost per copy. Do yourself and AREA a favor—try

the Newsletter via e-mail attachment.

Here’s what one member said: “The e mail edition is superb. Easy to read, brilliant colors, etc. I can't say

enough about it, and would recommend that anyone with a computer should give it a try. Especially since

they can always convert back to hard copy. I doubt if any would do that.”

Send an e-mail to Pat Weaver, Membership Director, at [email protected] and state that you would

like to get the Newsletter on line and we’ll do the rest. Give it a try. If you don’t like it, we can always add

you back to the snail-mail list.


P.O. Box 380614

Duncanville, TX 75138-0614

DUES ALERT! Please check the expiration date shown with your name

and mailing address. If the date is December 2014 or earlier, please send your $15 dues PAYABLE to AREA at the mailing address shown above.

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID

DALLAS, TX PERMIT #1478

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