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Here are several of us who attended the FREA Assembly in St. Pete. We learned about attracting members, helping each other and the community, and probably most important, about the state of the Florida Retirement System. It seems it is in good shape after suffering some losses in the recession which have not been completely recouped yet.

I am going to ask the Board to consider ways that we might raise some money for our scholarships next fall. Although it is convenient to ask members to donate the money, perhaps it is time for another way to raise funds. Suggestions have been selling items at meetings such as crafts created by some members, Used, but still attractive jewelry sales, book sales, and donated items to be raffled off. Have you ideas? If so, please share them.

Sign up as a follower. It isn't difficult. You only have to establish a gmail account which you probably will only use here. Then you can post answers to this blog. Just follow the directions which you will receive when you click on followers. It is free, of course.

Happy Fourth of July. I hope your fireworks are safe, your pets are unafraid, and your potato salad comes out right.

Thank you, Leon Trumbull, for taking on the position of Health Committee Chair for the District.

In the Good Old Summertime

In spite of the extreme heat, the threat of oil on the beaches, a hurricane in the Gulf, and bad economic news, I hope that against all odds you are enjoying your summertime. After all, we do still have blueberries, corn on the cob, watermelon, accessible restaurants, and empty roads.
Since I really don't want to lose contact with you all, a blog may fill the bill. I will try to update this as time goes on, probably at least once a month. You can also let me know how you are doing or post suggestions to make our MCREA a better experience. We should be able to have a good conversation here about whatever strikes your fancy.
In the fall we will be meeting at Renaissance on 9th for our luncheons. I have heard great reviews from members about the food and the ambience there. I especially like the parking and the ease of access to the building. Although the food at the Manor was filling and rather good, especially the desserts, the parking was awful.
Our first meeting is on Thursday, September 16, at 11:30. Plan to come a little early to visit with your friends and to meet our new members. Our new member reception will be at 10:00 a.m., on September 13, at the Main Library downtown. Judy Shostrum is getting the list of retirees and working on the invitations.