Retiree Newsletter - Fall 2021

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From the Association President, Rodger Bennett

Rodger Bennett 

Game Changer, Paradigm Shift, New Normal

How many times have we heard these terms? Each one can indicate the result of something good that’s happened or something bad that’s happened. They also can indicate the result of something that was well designed and planned…or not. And when randomness or just bad luck enters the equation, each of the terms can suggest there have been (or are going to be) significant consequences in our individual lives, communities, and organizations.

The pandemic emptied offices, shut down businesses and schools and turned our homes into a multiplex of living spaces, corporate headquarters, and educational institutions. The portion of our “analog” lives turned into digital lives whether we liked it or not. This was definitely a game changer. In order to cope, we had to make a paradigm shift in our thinking, communication, family life, work life and, yes, retirement (or upcoming retirement plans). Then after months and months of coping (or not 😉), most of us evolved into our new normal. That’s not to say we didn’t pine for the “old” normal; however, we suspected things were not going to be quite the same.

Over the last 18 months, the Dallas College Retiree Association (DCRA) has experienced two significant game changers. First, the District began its move to a single institution, and second, the pandemic ramped up for real in March 2020. As the District moved to its new single college structure, jobs were reassessed, restructured and/or reduced. In some cases, individuals who were not considering retirement found themselves deciding to retire earlier than anticipated and not necessarily happily. This situation compounded with the effects of the pandemic led the DCRA Leadership to make sure our organization continues to embrace fellowship and empathy.

The combination of the single college restructure and raging pandemic created a problematic paradigm shift on DCRA communication and operations.

The Retiree Association was primarily an analog organization that relied heavily on mailed communication and had a website that was not updated routinely. The DCRA Board and Leadership Team, almost overnight, found itself in a digital world without the tools and assistance needed to cope with this new normal. It didn’t take long for the DCRA Board to realize it had to figure out ways to establish a digital link to all the retirees. However, it appeared that the DCRA relationship with the District Office had also changed, so we were not sure who was responsible for assisting us. In other words, as we were trying to deal with a couple of game changers, we realized we had to make a paradigm shift, but couldn’t align the resources to create a new normal.

The good news is that by mid-summer 2021, after conversations with Dr. London and members of his team, the DCRA Board and Leadership Team have established a working relationship with Dallas College personnel, Marketing and HR. By late July 2021, all retirees should have received a “snail-mail” letter from me asking for ALL retirees to update their contact information and mail it back to the DC so the DCRA database can be updated. This updated database will give the DCRA the ability to reach out to retirees in a much timelier fashion, alert them to upcoming events, direct them to important information on the website, such as our newsletter, and feel more connected to their fellow retirees. If you have not already returned your Information Form, we hope you will do so soon. 👍 In addition, the DCRA website is being redesigned and currently is in multiple phases of development. It has been promised that it will continue to be updated and have the most relevant information for retirees and those thinking about retiring. Check it out: dallascollege.edu/retirees

Sooooooo all this to say, the DCRA has a new normal. And for those individuals who retired during this time; hopefully, you got to fill your time with learning new skills (learning to play the guitar 😀), Facetiming every day with your family, remodeling that room you have put off, gardening, or becoming a gourmet cook. If you would like to share any of those significant events, please email your article to the DCRA newsletter editor, Glenda Easter at geaster@retiree.dcccd.edu. January 10, 2022 is the deadline for submission.

Dr. Justin Lonon, Chancellor-Elect

Justin London 

Greetings to the Dallas College Retiree Association! It is my pleasure to address your esteemed group as the Chancellor‐elect of Dallas College. In the 15 years I’ve served this institution, it is clear that the people who have worked for and retired from Dallas College contributed mightily toward creating a culture of impact, innovation, and caring. As I transition to my next level of responsibility, the lessons I’ve learned and the relationships I cherish as part of the Dallas College family will serve as my guiding light going forward. I truly appreciate the well wishes and congratulatory messages I have received thus far.

Before addressing the future of Dallas College, it is important to recognize the significance of legacy. We together, as well as hundreds and thousands before us, have created a lasting legacy for the institution stretching well over half a century. Although we have a new name in Dallas College, we stand on the shoulders of those before us whose hard work and accomplishments paved the road for where we stand today. Part of that legacy is innovation and our willingness to move boldly into the future, always with a focus on how we can help students be successful, reach their goals, and contribute toward the growth and improvements in the very region where we live.

In looking toward the future of Dallas College, we must continue taking down barriers to education and opening doors to opportunities for the residents of Dallas County. This has meant taking a deep, thoughtful and considered approach to how we want Dallas College to be structured, not just for today but for the next 50 years. While our previous structure served us well in past years, it became apparent that our operational setup was beginning to have a detrimental effect on some students who Dallas College transition.

The restructuring has been an enormous challenge, occurring within the new reality of the COVID‐19 pandemic that turned our worlds upside down. The impact on people cannot be understated. To undertake a restructuring at the same time as a pandemic is certainly not ideal, and we all know colleagues and friends who have been affected by one or both. While it is our shared responsibility to move Dallas College forward for the benefit of students, it doesn’t lessen the sting of the past 18 months.

However, I can report that we are at the end of a significant aspect of the restructuring, which are the talent pools that have helped reshape our organization. We have leadership and key support roles in place within our seven schools, which offer a variety of programs to our students, and at our campuses and other locations. Due to the fast‐evolving nature of higher education today, there will always be an element of change as we move forward but at a less intense level than in recent months.

Unfortunately, at the time of this writing, the light at the end of the tunnel regarding the COVID‐19 pandemic isn’t quite so clear. We are urging all employees and students to take precautionary steps to protect themselves and others around them, including their families and Dallas College colleagues. To that end, the Board just recently approved a proposal to provide financial incentives for employees and students who are either already vaccinated or who choose to become vaccinated. We strongly believe that the more people we have vaccinated, the quicker we can emerge from the lingering shadow of COVID‐19.

But make no mistake – the future of Dallas College remains brighter than ever. By continuing to work with partners across the city, state and nation, we can amplify our efforts to create a pipeline of talent for high‐demand jobs and fulfill our mission to transform lives and communities through higher education. We also will build upon the strides we are making in the area of diversity and inclusion, and achieve positive outcomes through Dallas County Promise, forward‐looking programs such as our education Baccalaureate degree, and a legislative policy that advances the interests of our students and our community.

These lofty aspirations can only be achieved through communication, collaboration and commitment. I look forward to a continuous dialogue with DCRA and other representative groups of stakeholders such as faculty, staff, administrators and students so that I can make the most informed decisions possible. I thank you in advance for your support and your active, ongoing participation in the success of Dallas College.

The future awaits.

Event Coordinators

Please visit the Retirees Association Contact Us webpage to see our event coordinators.

Theater Events and Updates

 

I thought I would have theater options for us in the spring but with the delta variant raging in Texas we are again going to postpone any theater outings for the near future. I never knew how much I enjoyed all of our retiree events until we could not have them this past year and a half. Please stay safe and as soon as it is possible, we will start scheduling theater events. If you are not on my email list, contact me at dstrain50@gmail.com and I will add you to the database.

Donna Strain

Dallas College Retirees Association Museum Visits Fall 2021

 

So just when everything was looking better and people were talking about a return to normal social activities, the resurgence of COVID-19 has forced us to reconsider the situation. Things are once again in an unclear state of development, and that is very discouraging, especially when there are a number of interesting things going on around town. I understand that many will be reluctant to schedule indoor activities at this point; however, it seems to me that the trip to the Dallas Arboretum which had been under consideration can still be planned. After all, a little social life is a necessary part of a comprehensive approach to good health, right? So, with that in mind I spoke with a representative about a group visit on Wednesday, October 20, and they would be happy to have us then. The Arboretum has indicated that we follow COVID protocols at the Arboretum where masks are required in all indoor areas only.

The Arboretum is requiring reservations at this time, and the price for seniors is $14; however, if we have as many as 15 people, I can make a group reservation, in which case the price is only $11 each. If you would be willing to call me asap and let me know you can come, then assuming there are 15 of us I can call in our reservation and we can settle up when we get there. If not, we will need to make our reservations individually. “Autumn at the Arboretum” promises to be spectacular, including “the nationally acclaimed Pumpkin Village with 90,000 pumpkins, squash and gourds” artistically arranged. The theme for the garden this year is Bugtopia, with plenty of topiary bugs around the walkways.

As for parking, the charge is $15 on arrival or $10 if you pay ahead online. The main parking lot is at the main entrance; if that lot is full there is a parking garage across the street at 8720 Garland Road with a secure underground walkway leading under the street to the garden. The Arboretum opens at 9:00 a.m., so if we planned to arrive about 10:00 a.m. there should still be plenty of parking in the main lot. There are three different lunch options; I believe we ate at the Café on the Green last time, and it was excellent.

The Dallas Arboretum is located at 8525 Garland Road, Dallas 75218. The phone number is 214-515-6615. I hope to see many of you on the 20th! My cell phone number is 469-271-2684; call and let me know you are planning to come—or if you have any questions. Maybe by that time the situation will be improved, and if so, we can discuss the possibility of another outing. As always, your comments and suggestions are encouraged. Best wishes to all!

Bob Chambers

Employment After Retirement?

 

Coming back to TRS-member employment after you retire through TRS could change your annuity payments. Whether you consider returning to your former employer or a different TRS employer, use this “Employment After Retirement” booklet to help you make the decision that is right for you and avoid any unexpected loss of annuity payments.

 

Coming Soon!

Dallas College Retiree Association Facebook Page

In an effort to provide more opportunities to connect with retirees and find out about awesome events sponsored by the RA, we will be setting up a Retiree Association Facebook page. If you are an RA member and interested in helping us set up or manage a Dallas College Retiree Association Facebook page, please contact Lisa Theriot at Lmtheriot@msn.com.

Vaccination Incentives Approved for Dallas College Students and Employees

The Board of Trustees approved a vaccination incentive program for Dallas College students and employees on August 19, 2021. The program offers a $500 financial incentive to employees with proof of full vaccination. Registered students are eligible to receive up to $200 for being fully vaccinated — $100 each for the two-shot Moderna and Pfizer vaccines and $200 for the single shot of Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. Employees must submit proof of vaccination through November 15, 2021.

Additionally, Dallas College is offering free vaccination clinics at each of our seven campuses. COVID-19 tests are available on select campuses. Clinics and testing sites are free and open to the public. See the Vaccines and Testing page on the website for scheduled times and locations.

Holiday Luncheon

 

Tuesday, December 7, 2021
Check-in and Chat: 11-11:30 a.m.
Luncheon and Meeting: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Maggiano’s Little Italy, North Park Center

Reservation Deadline: Wednesday, November 24, 2021
The reservation form is on page 19 of this newsletter

Enjoy seeing friends and former colleagues, chatting over lunch, and maybe win a door prize!

Guests welcome.
Cost: $40/person

Parking: Ample free parking or complimentary valet parking. If you choose valet, you may either leave your cell phone number or request a ticket.

Covid Protocol: The restaurant has asked that all guests wear masks when they come into the restaurant and keep them on until they are seated. We will be housed in the largest ballroom for additional spacing. They are serving family-style as they have done in the past. Because of space limitations due to COVID-19 accommodations, our guest numbers cannot exceed 80. The Treasurer will keep a list of names who register after the limit is reached in the event of cancellations.

Look forward to seeing you there!

Rosie Steffen

Save the Dates

 

We’re headed to the Horse Races on May 1, 2022. Additional information and registration forms will be available in the Spring Retiree Newsletter.

Next year’s Holiday Luncheon at Maggiano’s has been scheduled for December 6, 2022. Put it on your calendar now to make plans to attend.

Retiree Association Leadership Group

Please visit the Retirees Association Contact Us webpage to see our Retiree Association Leadership Group.

New Member Explosion

Thanks in large part to our mailed request for current information from retirees about their contact information, we have received a significant boost in registered members of the Retiree Association. Our Annual Membership number jumped from 79 to 161. Lifetime memberships increased by 17 to make 227. We appreciate your returning the forms and helping us keep your information current. If you have a move, a new phone or email change in the future, please let us know. We do not want to lose touch.

We regret we have not contacted individually those who retired since January 2021. Up until October 1, Dallas College has not been able to supply the names and addresses of these most recent retirees for distribution to the RA Leadership. We continue to update this information, but if you know eligible former employees who would like to join us, please direct them to the RA web page (www.dcccd.edu/retirees) where they can find a membership form.

The Annual members who joined or renewed before August 1, 2021, are listed below. To renew for 2022, you can pay dues between now and August 1, 2022.

Please Note: As a reminder, we allocate 25% of membership dues to our Scholarship Fund. That amounts to $2.50 from each annual and $25 from each Lifetime member.

The Retiree Association’s new members have generously contributed $1150 to the Scholarship Fund, over and above the automatic allocation.

The RA and future student recipients sincerely thank you.

If you wish to join using this form, please fill it out and send your check to:

Delryn Fleming
1503 Jackson St.
Carrollton, TX 75006

Retiree Association Membership Roster

Contact Delryn Fleming at delryn@verizon.net or call Delryn at 972-245-5305 if you have questions about your membership status.

  • Anderson, Mel
  • Becker, Joan
  • Beene, Lou
  • Beene, Walter
  • Brown, Betty
  • Brown, Linda
  • Butler, Helen
  • Caropresi, Patsy
  • Dogger, Barbara
  • Elder-Jones, Delores
  • Etheredge, Margaret
  • Ezell, Vallye
  • Field, Barbara
  • Fowler, Bill
  • Francis, Georgia
  • Francis, Jerry
  • Goff, Larry
  • Gonnet, Katherine
  • Groves, Linda
  • Haynes, Vera
  • Henry, Mary Jo
  • Herd, Ruby
  • Ho, Trina
  • Hueston, Bob
  • Hutchings, Sarah
  • Jennings, Patti
  • Jeser-Skaggs, Sharlee
  • Jones, Jerry
  • Keller, Ida
  • Korman, Frank
  • Kornegay, Cecilia
  • Kovac, Betty
  • Lee, Annie
  • Maness, Marie
  • Mendoza, Norma
  • Meyer, Jana
  • Moran, Betty
  • Neeley-Plog, Bette
  • Pendleton, Julie
  • Pritchett, Kathy
  • Rager, Ernest
  • Ramos, Sulema
  • Reding, Diana
  • Regnault, Josie
  • Reynolds, Jackie
  • Roberts, Nancy
  • Rodgers, Peggy
  • Rogerson, Jan
  • Solis, Lupe
  • Stiles, Janet
  • Sullivan, Marilyn
  • Wagoner, Sharron
  • Weatherford, Jeanice
  • Weaver, Clif
  • Wickersham, Charles
  • Woelfle, Shirley

  • Adams, Margaret
  • Anderson, Eva
  • Andrews, Janice
  • Ballance, Donnine
  • Bartley, David
  • Beaver, Nancy
  • Bedarte, Delfina
  • Bell, Michael
  • Blackburn, Joanett
  • Blaydes, Bart
  • Bond, Earlene
  • Boriskie, Rebecca
  • Boshart, Carolyn
  • Brown, Betty
  • Burkel-Powell, Leslie
  • Carroll, Joan
  • Cheatum, Dennis
  • Chin, Tina
  • Chumbley, Rich
  • Ciminelli, Mary
  • Clapper, Howard
  • Daily, Tonya
  • Davidson, Millie
  • Dogger, Barbara
  • Drury, Dianna
  • Edwards, Lynda
  • Field, Barbara
  • Fleming, Lee
  • Fowler, Bill
  • Fulbright, Alice
  • Fuller, Betty
  • Garcia, Ed
  • Gardner-Morales, Elaine
  • Garza, Michael
  • Gauntlett, Claire
  • Gobar, Tony
  • Goff, Larry
  • Gonnet, Katherine
  • Goodson, Claudia
  • Graifemberg, Diane
  • Groves, Linda
  • Hayes, Virginia
  • Hayes, Wesley
  • Haynes, Vera
  • Herring, Gus
  • Hilmer, Rose Marie
  • Hilmer, Thomas
  • Holland, Jo
  • Howard, Helen
  • Howard, Ora
  • Hutchison, Debbie
  • Jacobson, Mary Kay
  • James, Robert
  • Jenkins, Jamie
  • Jessup, Linda S.
  • Johnson, Maylene
  • Jones, Pat
  • Kaczka, Shirley
  • Keller, Ida
  • Kleen, Linda
  • Lambert, Judy
  • Larsen, Len
  • Leigh, Doris
  • Lewis, Rita
  • Lichten, Sue
  • Lindsey, Paul
  • Lineberry, Bill
  • Little, Veda
  • Longacre, Scott
  • Marie Maness
  • Martinez, Ivan
  • McCarthy, Paul
  • McMullan, Judy
  • McNeill, Earldene
  • Mendiola, Marti
  • Mendoza, Norma
  • Mogollon, Sandra
  • Morin, Traci
  • Mosby, Larry
  • Motley, Thomas
  • Neeley-Plog, Bette
  • Nieman, Bobby
  • Noblin, Linda
  • Oliver, Gwendolyn
  • Ollie, Daisy
  • Parks, Sue
  • Pecina, Tony
  • Peterson, Jackie
  • Pierce, Jack
  • Pollock, Guy
  • Pope, Rose
  • Rhodes, Frances
  • Roach, Cheryl
  • Rodgers, Peggy
  • Rogerson, Jan
  • Rolling, Lincoln
  • Rose, Theresa
  • Rubalcava, Janie
  • Schroeder, Anne
  • Slonecker, Bill
  • Slonecker, Kathy
  • Smith, Dianna
  • Stacy, Marilyn
  • Stevenson, Brenda
  • Timberlake, Martha
  • Tunnell, Charlotte
  • Waddle, Laura
  • Wagoner, Sharron
  • Walker, Jo
  • Walsh, Thomas
  • Weiner, Joel
  • Wells, Jr. George (Bill)
  • White, Jim
  • Wickersham, Charles
  • Williams, Jerome
  • Wimbish, Jennifer
  • Wimbish, Linda
  • Witherspoon, Becky
  • Woelfle, Shirley
  • Wong, Joe
  • Wood, Hugh
  • Ziegler, Marla

  • Bollin, Patricia
  • Cooper, Tammy
  • Felty, Larry
  • Gregory, David
  • Handy, Jim
  • Howden, Norman
  • Karsteadt, Carol
  • Krause, Cindy
  • Michele, Gay
  • Miller, Ellen
  • Moore, Diana
  • Nelson, Gina
  • Penny, Jane
  • Preston, David
  • Rattan, Reva
  • Richard, Calvin
  • Russell, Susan
  • Sookoor, Maas. Tony
  • Spiegel, Hal
  • Sullivan, Marilyn

Outgoing Board Members

We wish to extend our heartfelt thanks to those who have served on the Retiree Association’s Board for their service to our organization. Rodger Bennett is our outgoing president who has served for two years. Dottie Clark has shared her experience and knowledge with our association serving as the immediate past present for two years. Susan

Turner has served as the News Editor for our association for seven years. Her position has been filled by Glenda Easter. Karen Laljiani has served as Vice-President for three years and Delryn Fleming has served as the Association’s Treasurer for four years. Lisa Theriot has been the Association’s Secretary for two years. We send out a special thanks to all those who are retiring from their positions on the Retiree Association Board.

Retiree Association Scholarship Recipient

 

Spring 2021

 

The recipient of our 2021 Dallas College $1,000 scholarship is Toi Williams. Toi completed her associates degree in May. Last we heard from her she was in the process of joining the Air Force. Depending on how much longer it takes, she might join the Navy instead. After six months in the military, she will be eligible to receive tuition assistance. She plans to complete her bachelor's degree online at Texas Tech.

Ms. Williams responded to the questions asking why she was applying for the scholarship, as well as describing her academic goals and future plans. Toi was further asked to share any community service activities in which she participated and any leadership roles she has held. To these questions she responded.

During my gap year, I wanted to continue my education despite not being in a classroom environment by documenting two Afro-descendant populations in Central America, learning about quirky topics in Asia, and fully immersing myself in cultures by residing with locals. Through this period of exploration, I discovered my passion for navigating unfamiliar environments, researching different countries, and finding commonalities between individuals with warring beliefs. I am currently completing my associate degree to transfer to a four-year institution to major in political science and minor in Mandarin. I chose these two fields of study due to my desire to work for the United States Department of State as a Foreign Service Officer and the government declaring learning Mandarin crucial for national security. Furthermore, I believe finding a way for these two powers to coexist and mutually thrive is important for the world, due to documented patterns that showed war is likely when a rising power attempts to displace an existing one. To achieve my career aspiration, I plan to apply to two fellowships for graduate studies after completing my bachelor’s degree: Charles B. Rangel Graduate Fellowship and Thomas R. Pickering Fellowship. Both of these programs provide participants with support in their graduate studies, internships, and appointments as officers after completing the program.

Receiving this scholarship will reduce my financial burden and maximize my college experience through volunteering at CitySquare’s food pantry and taking on leadership roles, such as being president of the Alpha Zeta Eta chapter of Phi Theta Kappa. For both CitySquare’s food pantry and Alpha Zeta Eta, I saw a lack of participants— which caused these organizations to not function at their highest potential—then took appropriate action. I first started volunteering at CitySquare to have human interaction during the pandemic and to assist when there was a decline in volunteers due to school beginning and people returning to work. Throughout my experience, I became aware of my ignorance regarding the large number of people impacted by food insecurity. Also, this fall, I became the president of the Alpha Zeta Eta chapter of Phi Theta Kappa. I was quite skeptical at first due to the lack of officers and the chapter’s recent history of being dispersed in 2019, but said yes due to my fondness for challenges. My role as the president is to embody tenacity- to persist in rebuilding the chapter despite our late beginning and substantial number of tasks needed to be completed in a short period. As we continue to scratch off requirements from the Five Star Plan, I have seen growth in this team and our language becoming assertive. Instead of saying we are “trying” to rebuild our chapter’s esteem, we removed passive words from our vocabulary and are progressively moving towards this goal. By receiving funding for my education, I will be able to make a difference in my community and act when recognizing a need.

TRS

 

Governor Authorizes One-Time Supplemental Payment for Eligible TRS Retirees

AUSTIN – Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed into law legislation enabling a one-time supplemental payment to eligible Teacher Retirement System members who retired on or before Dec. 31, 2020. Senate Bill 7 provides a payment to eligible retirees and beneficiaries in either the same amount of their monthly annuity or $2,400, whichever is less.

House Bill 5 provides direct funding from the state to pay for the capped 13th check. As a result, the payment will not impact the actuarial soundness of the TRS pension fund. State law requires the pension fund to be actuarially sound for the legislature to consider a benefit enhancement, such as a supplemental payment.

To read more about this stipend, visit Retirees-One-Time Supplement.

 

General Vaccination Clinics: September 28 through October 27

Dallas College Health Services — together with Passport Health — is offering two General Vaccination Clinics at each campus this fall (running from September 28 to October 27) for students, employees, and employees’ dependents. This vaccine service offers many vaccinations to help prevent flu, meningitis, shingles, pneumonia, and more. Show your employee health insurance information to enjoy free services (However, B12 shots, will cost you $20 with our insurance).

COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics through November 15. Free COVID-19 vaccines continue to be offered at Dallas College campuses for students, employees, and our community.

Additional testing sites are available in the area. Dallas County provides an updated listing of testing sites on their website.

Colleagues We Will Miss…

 

We have recently learned of the passing of the following retirees. These individuals, our friends and colleagues, are remembered for their impact on our lives, the lives of our students, and our institution. We express our sympathy to their families and friends.

  • ☙ W. Gene Stewart, a retiree from Brookhaven College, died on January 16, 2020.
  • ☙ Joseph Cuevas, a retiree from Eastfield College, died on January 23, 2020.
  • ☙ Marguerite Camp, a retiree from Richland College, died on August 2, 2020.
  • ☙ Tom Goza, a retiree from Mountain View College, died on March 22, 2021.
  • ☙ Suzanne (Susie) Hogue, a retiree from Richland College died on May 11, 2021.
  • ☙ Hilda Jackman, a retiree from Brookhaven College, died on May 22, 2021.
  • ☙ Mary Thrash, a retiree from Brookhaven College died on August 11, 2021.
  • ☙ Randall (Randy) Price, a retiree from Richland College died on August 21, 2021.
  • ☙ Gordon R. Edwards, a retiree from District Office died (Date unknown).
  • ☙ Henry (Hank)Griffin, a retiree from Richland College died (Date unknown).

Sympathy is extended to retirees at the passing of family members:

  • ☙ Tom Tully, Bettie Tully’s husband passed away on November 13, 2020.
  • ☙ Mary Trosper, Cynthia Bowlin’s mother died on January 8, 2021.
  • ☙ Myles G. Mooney, the husband of Marlina (Martie) Mooney died on July 21, 2021.
  • ☙ Judy Garza's son, Fred Garza Jr., died June 4, 2021.

If you are aware of the death of a retiree, please contact any member of the Leadership Team

Recent Retirees

 

Please welcome our new retirees who retired January 2021 through September 2021. We know you’ve looked forward to the day where you didn’t have to get up early to go to work. Relax, you can now sleep as late as you want, take all those exciting trips that you’ve planned, and simply enjoy the good life of retirement. Our retiree association welcome you to retirement, and hope you will join our organization.

View the names of recent retirees

ERS Announcements

Medicare-eligible retirees

 

Fall Enrollment begins November 1

The annual benefits enrollment period for Medicare-eligible retirees in the Texas Employees Group Benefits Program (GBP) is November 1 through November 19. You may make changes to dental, vision and live insurance coverage for yourself and your eligible dependents during this period. All changes are effective January 1, 2022.) Medicare-enrolled retirees can make changes to their health coverage at any time of the year, including during Fall Enrollment.)

What’s New for Plan Year 2022

There are no significant changes in premium rates, coverage or plan administration for Plan Year 2022. If you are a former HMO plan participant who transitioned to the HealthSelect Medicare Advantage Plan preferred provider organization (MA PPO) or HealthSelect Secondary on September 1, you can choose to switch health plans during Fall Enrollment or any time of the year. You must submit your Medicare Beneficiary Identifier (MBI) to ERS to enroll in the HealthSelect MA PPO. You can do this through your ERS OnLine account or by calling ERS toll-free at (877) 275-4377. View the Health Plans Comparison Chart in your Fall Enrollment packet or online to learn about the differences between the two plans.

HealthSelect Medicare Advantage Plan

 

Retirees enrolled in HealthSelect Medicare Advantage Plan, a preferred provider organization (MA PPO), can join SilverSneakers a nationwide program specifically for adults 65 or older.

In addition to free access to thousands of gyms and fitness centers nationwide, SilverSneakers offers an on-demand library of workout and wellness videos, community classes and live virtual classes. Classes are for all abilities and range from low-impact exercises for flexibility and mobility, to cardio workouts and more. Many retirees who use the program say it’s one of their favorite benefits in their health care plan.

Get started at https://tools.silversneakers.com/. Be sure to have your HealthSelect MA PPO ID card handy when enrolling.

Don’t Forget Your Flu Vaccine

 

COVID 19 vaccines may be getting all the attention, but the flu vaccine is still important, especially for adults 65 and older. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends getting a vaccine in September or October to give flu-fighting anti9bodies a chance to work.

Check with your health care provider about getting your shot. Flu vaccines also are covered at 100% at in-network pharmacies that offer them. Whenever you get your shot, make sure the service is coded as preventative so you don’t pay anything out of pocket.

And if you haven’t gotten vaccinated against COVID-19 yet, it’s a very good idea to do that too – at many locations throughout the state, and at designated District locations and times to protect yourself and others against a potentially deadly disease that is still very much with us. COVID vaccinations are available at no cost at many locations throughout the state, and at designated District locations.

Nomination of Officers

ARTICLE V— ELECTION OF OFFICERS

 

Section 1. The President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer shall be elected in December.

Section 2. A nominating committee shall be appointed by the President. It shall present a slate of candidates in time for publication in the fall RET newsletter. The candidates should be in good standing and have agreed to serve if elected. The officers shall be elected and installed at the December business meeting and assume office at that time. The first meeting after the election should be attended by both new and former officers to facilitate an orderly transition.

Section 3. All officers of the Association shall serve a two-year term from the date of the election.

The Chairman of the 2021 Nominating Committee was Don Baynham and those serving on the nominating committee were Georgia Francis and Karen Laljiani. In compliance with Article V – Election of Officers: Nominated by the committee and consenting to their nomination for the 2021-2022 term are:

  • Lisa Theriot – President
  • Susan Turner – Vice President
  • Tammy Cooper – Secretary
  • Diane Graifemberg – Treasurer
 

Retiree Association Bylaws

Proposed Bylaw Revisions

These recommended changes to the bylaws were slated for the Fall 2020 meeting, and then we had COVID-19 restrictions and the need to “shelter within”. The DCCCD Retirees Association Executive Board continues to review the current approved bylaws. Members of the Executive Board request the proposed bylaw revisions be voted on at our 2021 Holiday Luncheon and Business meeting on December 7, 2021.

Dec. 7, 2005, Revised: Spring 2016, Dec. 6, 2017, March 19, 2019, Fall 2021

ARTICLE I — NAME

The name of this organization shall be the Dallas CollegeCounty Community College District Retirees Association.

ARTICLE II — PURPOSE 

The purpose of this Association shall be to promote the welfare, social, and professional interests of its members; to participate and aid in the civil and educational advancement of our county; to provide support for the DCCCDDallas College; and to cooperate with units of retired individuals on all levels.

ARTICLE III — MEMBERSHIP

Section 1. Membership in this Association shall be open to persons designated as eligible for membership under the DCCCDDallas College Human Resources policies.

Section 2. Association dues shall be payable to the Treasurer on an annual basis coinciding with the calendar year (January-December) or a lifetime membership may be purchased.

Section 3. The amount of annual dues or a lifetime membership shall be set by the Executive Board with the approval of the membership at any Business meeting by a two-thirds vote of members present and voting, provided the proposed amount of annual dues has been presented to the members at least one month before the voting date.

Section 4. Twenty-five percent of dues collected each year will be given to the DCCCDDallas College Foundation to be deposited in the DCCCDDallas College Retiree Association Scholarship fund.

ARTICLE IV — OFFICERS AND THEIR DUTIES

Section 1. The officers of this Association shall be a President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer. The Past President and the RET Newsletter Editor shall both serve as ex-officio and voting members of the Executive Board.

Section 2. The President:

  • acts as the spokesperson, representative, and leader for the Association,
  • calls and conducts all associationAssociation meetings,
  • coordinates officer responsibilities,
  • provides guidance and direction for the Association and works with the DistrictDallas College designated Association liaison, DistrictDallas College staff and Association membership in the achievement of Association goals and objectives. 

The President shall also appoint the Editor of the newsletter. The President shall have the power to appoint an official representative for meetings if unable to be the official representative. The President shall coordinate the printing and mailing of the summer RET Newsletter. All powers not otherwise delegated to other officers shall be reserved to the President.

Section 3. The Vice-President:

  • serves as assistant to the President,
  • assumes duties of the President in case he/she is unable to serve,
  • supports the President in the identification of membership needs and serves as Membership Chair
  • coordinates the recruiting of new members,
  • sends welcome letters to new retirees, a membership form, the policy and form for requesting business cards, and a current RET newsletter, and provides name badges for members and guests attending luncheons/business meetings.

Section 4. The Secretary:

  • keeps an accurate record of meetings and reports regularly to the membership through the RET newsletters,
  • conveys such records to the DistrictDallas College webmaster for publishing,
  • submits Colleagues We Will Miss information for each RET newsletter,
  • mails sympathy cards to families of deceased retirees who are members of the Association,
  • sends thank you cards to businesses who provide door prizes at annual luncheons and business meetings,
  • assists with DCCCDDallas College Retiree Directory updates,
  • maintains a notebook with meeting minutes,
  • maintains copies of RET newsletters, DCCCDDallas College Retiree Directory, handouts provided with events information and other Association items.

The Secretary presents proposed DCCCD Dallas College Retiree Association By-Lawsbylaws changes for approval by members present at business meetings.

Section 5. The Treasurer:

  • maintains financial records of the Association and reports regularly at meetings called by the President and to the membership at business meetings on the Association's financial standings;,
  • maintains records on all Association members,
  • assists Vice-presentPresident in supplying member and guest names for events,
  • collects monies as appropriate,
  • is responsible for the disbursement ofdisburses all funds,
  • submits records for an annual review by an ad-hoc committee, and
  • informs his/her successor of responsibilities to facilitate an orderly transition of the financial affairs of the Association.

The Treasurer will negotiate any dates and contracts needed between vendors and the Association and will forward information to the appropriate event coordinator. The Treasurer and/or the President shall be authorized to sign Association checks.

Section 6. The RET newsletter editor:

  • serves as a clearinghouse for the Association's news and information,
  • organizes and edits articles for publication and creates the Association's newsletters,
  • provides a checklist of newsletter contents to the Association's Leadership Group, prior to publication submits a copy of the RET newsletter to selected individuals for proofreading,
  • upon completion of the fall and spring RET newsletters, conveys a grayscale copy to the DistrictDallas College retiree liaison for printing and a copy to the DistrictDallas College webmaster for web publishing and conveys a copy of the summer newsletter to the Association President for printing and distribution to paid members.

ARTICLE V — ELECTION OF OFFICERS

Section 1. The President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer shall be elected in December.

Section 2. A nominating committee shall be appointed by the President. It shall present a slate of candidates in time for publication in the fall RET newsletter. The candidates should be in good standing and have agreed to serve if elected. The officers shall be elected and installed at the December business meeting and assume office at that time. The first meeting after the election should be attended by both new and former officers to facilitate an orderly transition.

Section 3. All officers of the Association shall serve a two-year term from the date of the election.

ARTICLE VI — EXECUTIVE BOARD

Section 1. The Executive Board shall consist of the elected officers, the Immediate Past President, and the RET Newsletter Editor.

Section 2. The Executive Board shall direct the programs and formulate the general policies concerning the business of the Association, fill by appointment all vacancies occurring in the Executive Board between elections, review the selection of the nominating committee chair, other committee chairs and event coordinators as needed and perform such other duties as designated by the membership.

ARTICLE VII — MEETINGS

Section 1. The business meetings of the Association shall be held bi-annuallybiannually.

ection 2. Other meetings may be called as needed.

ARTICLE VIII — COMMITTEES

The President shall create special committees as the occasion demands. The Nominating and Scholarship committee shall be Standing Committees.

Coordinators shall be appointed from the membership by the President to oversee events, luncheons, and other activities, to recruit members to participate in these and provide details for the RET newsletter and handouts at the luncheons.

ARTICLE IX — QUORUM

For an Executive Board meeting, a majority of the Executive Board shall constitute a quorum. For business meetings, a majority of the Association members present shall constitute a quorum.

ARTICLE X — BY-LAWBYLAW CHANGES

The By-Lawsbylaws of this Association may be amended at any business meeting by a two-thirds vote of members present and voting, provided the proposed amendments have been presented to the members at least one month before the voting date.

STANDING RULES

Standing Rule 1. Annually an ad hoc committee, appointed by the President, will review and discuss the accounting records of the Association.  During the calendar year, this Ad Hoc Committee will assess the accuracy of the DCCCDDallas College Retiree Association Treasurer's records.

Dallas College Remembers Trustee JL Sonny Williams

JL Sonny Williams 

Dallas College Trustee JL Sonny Williams, businessman and lifelong community servant, died at his home on July 10. He was 78.

Williams joined the Dallas College Board of Trustees in 2006 and faithfully served constituents of District 1 for 15 years. In 2016, he rose to chair the board’s audit committee, a capacity he served in until his death. Williams considered giving back to the community a personal responsibility, colleagues said.

“Although he was a man of few words, those of us privileged enough to know him understood that his passion for this institution, our students and the Dallas County community was unparalleled,” Dallas College Chancellor Joe May said of Williams’ passing. “Sonny was both wise and discerning, calm yet commanding — all qualities that served him well personally and professionally.”

A minority owner of the Dallas Mavericks, Williams was also a former president and chief operating officer of Minyard Food Stores, Inc., a position he earned after working his way through the ranks from store employee to company executive.

Throughout his life, he worked with several civic and professional organizations and served on the board of directors for the State Fair of Texas, the Southern Methodist University Athletic Forum and the American Red Cross, among others. Williams earned a bachelor’s degree and honorary doctorate from Dallas Baptist University. He is survived by his wife, Gretchen; his children, Claire and Connor; son-in-law, Chase Caywood; and granddaughter, Ivy Lisbeth.

Ever proud of his Mavericks championship ring, he loved letting students try it on and hold it — a sign of his relatability and connection to Dallas College students.

“I know the Dallas Community will join me in extending our thoughts and prayers to Sonny’s family during this most difficult time,” Dr. May said. “Dallas College is a stronger institution thanks to Sonny’s influence,

expertise and selflessness.”

“Our hearts are now with Sonny’s family and friends,” added Board Chair Monica Lira Bravo. “My fellow board members and I were fortunate to witness Sonny’s devotion to his fellow man through his commitment to Dallas College’s students. He possessed an eternal hope that peace spreads through all generations of every creed and every race. We will miss him dearly.”

 
 
 

Holiday Luncheon and Meeting

Event Date: Tuesday, December 7

Reservation Deadline: Wednesday, November 24

Reservation Form

 

Retiree Events

We Look Forward to Having More Events to Celebrate with the Retiree’s Association

Be on the lookout for events posted on the Retiree’s Website

 

Lunch Break for Retirees at Shiva Lotus Dragon Event


Trip to Shiva Lotus Dragon in Fort Worth, Texas