June 08-July 2008 - American Red Cross Retiree Association

The Retiree
Published by the
American Red Cross Retiree Association
1730 E St. NW, Room 108, Washington, DC 20006
Vol. 30, No. 1 June/July 2008
Officers
John McDivitt
President
Sue Richter
Vice President
Nedra Turney
Treasurer
Norman Coe
Treasurer
Sara Peller
Field Unit Manager
National Committee Chairs
James Krueger
Communications
Norman Coe
Finance
Steve Bullock, Sue Richter
Membership and
Financial Development
Robert M. Bender, Jr.
Nominations
Heath Rada
Programs and Services
Bud McKonly
Region
Region Representatives
Jim McColm
Pacific
Carter Taylor
West
James F. Oberholz
Midwest
Richard N. Smith
Mid-Atlantic
Carol Rittenhouse
Southeast
Timothy J. Sartorius
Southwest
Jean Vrabel
Great Lakes
Mary Ann Leon
Northeast
Ex Officio
Kyle Rodeman
Administrator
Betty Wagner
Tel: (202) 303-7184
Wagnerb@usa.redcross.org
Gail McGovern Takes Helm as Red Cross President
and CEO
Gail J. McGovern started her work as the new President and CEO of the American Red
Cross on June 23. In a video message to staff, she said, “I am honored and excited to join
the American Red Cross. In the past few weeks, I have visited several chapters and blood
regions. I have seen how we are helping families affected by disasters, hospital patients who
need blood, members of the armed forces who have a family emergency, and I’ve learned
about countless ways the American Red Cross helps others.”
One of her first actions as President was to visit China seven weeks after the powerful 8.0
earthquake claimed more than 70,000 lives there. “The purpose of this trip is to build bridges
and to have an opening for a dialogue with the people of China,” McGovern said. “Just to
tell them how important China is to our country and how much we want to help the people of
China.” McGovern and David Meltzer, senior vice president of International Services for the
American Red Cross, along with several other humanitarian organizations and leaders of
corporations—such as Procter and Gamble, Honeywell, Cisco, Chevron and Johnson &
Johnson—traveled to China at the invitation of the U.S. Government’s Agency for International
Development (USAID). The American Red Cross has committed $20 million to help the
earthquake survivors recover and sent two relief experts to the affected area.
McGovern comes to the Red Cross from Harvard Business School where, as a member
of the faculty, she taught marketing in the MBA and Executive programs. She has also served
as president of Fidelity Personal Investments, where she was responsible for serving 4
million customers with $500 billion in assets. She also held the post of executive vice president
for the AT&T Consumer Markets Division, responsible for its $26 billion residential long
distance service.
“Despite our recent financial challenges, Red Crossers have continued to focus on our
mission and I applaud each and everyone for doing so. America needs a thriving Red Cross
In This Issue
continued on the page 3
ARCRA President’s Letter 2
Volunteer Award 3
ARCRA Board Listens 5
In Memoriam 6
Unit Doings 8
Ready When the Time Comes 9
Making Your Will 11
Red Cross Discounts 12

From ARCRA President John McDivitt
This year I had the pleasure of attending the American Red Cross
National Convention in Baltimore representing the ARCRA. What
has become a common theme in recent years, the organization is ever
changing and that was the source of considerable conversation. Packed
workshops explored the “New Universe” of the American Red Cross,
including the budget deficit, staff cut backs and another restructuring.
People wanted to know how the context of the restructuring would
affect local units. Many of the attendees are relative newcomers to the
Red Cross and are concerned about these issues, but feel good about
the mission of the organization and the services they are providing
their communities. This brings me to the reason I have liked the National
Conventions throughout my career, and that is the heart warming human
interest stories that are highlighted each year. We must never forget
that those stories happen every day in this organization and are carried
out by wonderful paid and volunteer staff.
The major objective for my being at the convention was to continue
our discussions about retiree issues, such as health coverage and
increases in our pension. We have heard from over 1,000 retirees in
the recent ARCRA survey and as those results are tabulated we will
create a platform we can use for our future. Please review the “Retiree
Association Board Listens” article in this newsletter. This information
will also be helpful when I meet with Gail McGovern, the new President
and CEO of the American Red Cross. It will be helpful for her to
know the issues facing retirees and the rich resource this group can
offer an organization in a time of change.
We need your help in recruiting your colleagues to join an ARCRA
local unit (or create a new unit) and help us identify the continuing
needs of the retiree.
Retiree Connection
A toll-free program of your American Red Cross Retiree
Association
1-888-738-2724
♦
Help in taking advantage of services, products and
other benefits.
Assistance in renewing relationships or contacts with
former Red Cross colleagues.
Advocacy in navigating the system and resolving
retirement-related problems.
American Red Cross
Benefits Service Center
The American Red Cross provides one
toll-free number for Red Cross
Retirement and Life and Health Benefit
information.
1-877-860-7526
http://redcross.csplans.com
American Red Cross
Retiree Association
Headquarters Office
202-303-7184
wagnerb@usa.redcross.org
ARCRA
Life Members
Life Members help support the Retiree
Association in a major way. The following
retirees have chosen to join this group
since the publication of the previous list.
Barbara J. Brown Wichita, KS
Ann C. Cole
Arlington, VA
Joan Colti
Philadelphia, PA
Raymond A. Copeland Norfolk, VA
Kathleen A. Feicht Toledo, OH
Joann Hammond New Castle, DE
Betty L. Hargraves Cedar Rapids, IA
Russell E. Kratzer, II Harrisburg, PA
John R. Manley Washington, DC
Muriel Nelson
Pineville, NC
Donald W. Paxton New Orleans, LA
Lucianne Phillips Yakuma, WA
Lucy E. Reynolds Santaana, CA
Sue A. Richter Bennington, NE
Adeline Thomas Philadelphia, PA
Edwin Q. Wright
Irvine, CA
Janice A. Zaletel Yuba City, CA
2 The Retiree

Retiree Receives Top Volunteer Award
Lillian (Lil) B. Williams, long time employee of the Greater Houston Area
Chapter of the American Red Cross, Houston, TX was recently selected as
the Texas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging’s Volunteer
Achievement Award—Individual within Facility award winner. After she retired
as Administrative Assistant from the American Red Cross in 1985, she decided
to do something meaningful with her free time and began her volunteer career
with Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital. Years later when she and her
husband moved to University Place, Lil discovered there were many
opportunities to volunteer there as well.
She continued to devote two days a week volunteering as a courier
between family members and nurses’ stations at the hospital in the ICU
Waiting Room and the In-Patient Surgery Waiting Room. At her University
Place residence she wears several volunteer hats: working with the marketing
department estate sales showing apartments on weekends and holidays and
assisting with off-campus trips in the Personal Assistant Services (PSA)
Program. Lil also serves on several committees within the in-house community
and works in other activities as needed.
Lil states, “I think my most rewarding volunteer service is in the ICU
Waiting Room. I have had many fulfilling experiences with grieving families
and one that I will never forget was when the mother of two young men was
in ICU in terminal condition. The young men were very devoted to their
Mom and one was always at her side day or night. I had established a very
good rapport with them and the day she died I was on duty and had taken
them to her room prior to her death, they would not let me leave. My shoulders
were soaked with tears. I have found my volunteer work to be most rewarding
and stimulating. It keeps my life in balance.”
Congratulations Lil on this prestigious award recognizing volunteer service
within the community and within your residence!
Gail McGovern, continued from page 1
moving forward,” she said in the video
message. “I am confident that we will work
together to build and strengthen our great
organization. We need to continue to
develop superior products and services and
recognize and cultivate those who give time,
money and blood to insure the American
Red Cross is a thriving organization.”
Recognized by Fortune magazine as one
of the most powerful and influential women
in corporate America, McGovern cochaired
a very successful fundraising
campaign for her alma mater, Johns Hopkins
University, that exceeded its $2 billion goal.
She holds an MBA from Columbia
University and received alumna of the year
awards from both universities. She is a
member of the Board of Trustees of Johns
Hopkins University, the Board of Directors
of the Hartford Financial Services Group
and the Board of Directors of DTE Energy.
“In the last several weeks the Red Cross
has had a record response to disasters
across the country (tornados, floods and
wild fires) and around the world and has
done so with a collective national and
international kindness. We now need to
reinvigorate our trusted brand by
strengthening our Disaster and Bio-medical
programs. We must use technology to
streamline our activities and we must
continue to educate the public about what
we do and how we do it. We want our
chapters, blood regions, paid and volunteer
staff and our donors more excited than ever
to be a part of this great organization,” said
McGovern.
“All of you should be proud of your
work. I know I am. We are all here because
we want to be a part of something bigger
than ourselves, and the American Red Cross
allows us to have that opportunity. The
organization is at a crossroad and I look
forward to walking down the road of
excitement and success with you.”
Of joining the Red Cross, she said, “I
absolutely made the right decision.”
June/July 2008 3

Alma Powell Honored at Red Cross Tiffany Circle Dinner
By Mary Havell, Red Cross National Headquarters
Alma Powell, married to Colin
Powell, General, United States
Army and United States Secretary
of State (RET), accepted the
American Red Cross Legacy of
Service award. Photo credit:
Jennifer Willis
Bonnie McElveen-Hunter,
Chairman of the Red Cross,
announced the special
appearance of Gail J. McGovern,
incoming President and CEO of
the American Red Cross.
McGovern officially began at the
Red Cross on June 23, 2008.
Photo credit: Jennifer Willis
Tuesday, June 17, 2008 — The Tiffany Circle of the American Red Cross concluded
its annual Women’s Leadership Summit event on June 11 at the U.S. Department of
State in Washington, D.C. This year’s summit highlighted the American Red Cross
role in the international family of Red Cross and Red Crescent societies through its
international programs and activities, particularly the organization’s overseas services
to the United States Armed Forces.
The dinner was held in the Benjamin Franklin State Dining Room and honored
members of the U.S. Armed Forces and current and former military spouses for their
commitment to our nation and its citizens.
Corporal Sue Downes, who lost both of her legs during an explosion in Afghanistan
in November 2006, spoke about her relationship with the Red Cross. Throughout her
ongoing rehabilitation at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Downes has been working
with Major Elizabeth Painter, a Red Cross volunteer. “I came to Walter Reed with
nothing but a hospital gown and the ladies at the Red Cross took care of me and my
whole family. I just want to say thank you,” said Downes.
“There are several ‘heroes’ here tonight. I now want to say thank you to the military
wives,” said Bonnie McElveen-Hunter, Chairman of the Red Cross. “These are the
women who quietly serve and stand behind the men on the front lines.”
Alma Powell, married to Colin Powell, General, United States Army and United
States Secretary of State (RET), was honored with the American Red Cross Legacy
of Service. Powell was saluted as a distinguished American for her legacy of service
to the American Red Cross.
“It is an honor for me to be here tonight and share this with my sisters of service,”
said Powell. “The Red Cross is embedded in the fabric of our nation. We are a nation
of volunteers. We must build on volunteerism and spread it.”
Other special guests who were recognized at the event include:
• Diane Bodman, married to Samuel Bodman, U.S. Secretary of Energy and
American Red Cross volunteer at Walter Reed Army Medical Center
• Cindy Giambastiani, married to Admiral Edmund P. Giambastiani, United States
Navy, Former Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (RET)
• Mary Jo Myers, married to General Richard B. Myers, USAF (RET), Former
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
• Lynne Pace, married to General Peter Pace, Former Chairman of the Joint
Chiefs of Staff
• Holly Petraeus, married to General David Petraeus, Commanding General, Multi-
National Force – Iraq
The annual Women’s Leadership Summit event brought together approximately
300 members of the Tiffany Circle from 23 Red Cross chapters across the country
and recognized their commitment and contributions in support of the noble mission of
the Red Cross. The women of the Tiffany Circle generously donate $10,000 each to
annually support their local Red Cross chapters. Their contributions enable the
organization to respond to emergencies, whether they are individual disasters such as
home fires or community-wide disasters.
4 The Retiree

Retiree Association Board Listens
As a result of hundreds of responses to the Retiree Association’s Survey, a number of initiatives have been implemented
or are under study for possible future implementation by the Retiree Association Board.
The most frequently mentioned issue stated by respondents dealt with pension concerns and other benefits. A strong
desire for advocacy in these areas was expressed. Your board is taking this matter seriously as it explores ways to work
with the new administration in communicating and supporting retirees’ concerns. When such communications occur, this
newsletter will share results and possible next steps.
A desire to have additional discounts from businesses and service programs was also affirmed. Retirees are fortunate
that National Headquarters has staff members who are looking continuously for new and helpful programs and services for
both paid staff and retirees. Your Association Board and staff regularly advocate for retirees to be included in any benefits
made available to employees. In most cases retirees are eligible for the discounts, though in some instances there may be a
smaller discount, and in a few circumstances retirees are not eligible for employee discounts.
It is exciting to explore some newer available benefits. These include a special cellular program with AT&T, the Philips
Lifeline System, Health and Fitness spas, and the Smart Box Portable Self Storage Units. Including these programs with
those already in existence provides many opportunities for retirees to save. Already in place were such programs as other
cell phone plans, computer, equipment and digital cameras, insurance, mortgage and other banking opportunities, moving
costs, home décor items (through Sherwin Williams), vehicle purchase or lease discounts from Daimler Chrysler, Ford,
General Motors and Subaru, rental car discounts and others. To read more details about these benefits you should access
CrossNet. (If you are not sure how to register for CrossNet, contact a local Red Cross chapter to request and authorize
your eligibility for access to the system, or request the help of the national ARCRA office.) Once into the system, click on
the “Benefits” box located at the top, right side of the page. Then click on “Get Red Cross Discounts” to see an updated
listing of most of the discount options available.
A number of suggestions related to ways to “connect retirees” to the organization and to one another. Many compliments
were made about the Retiree Newsletter. Additional suggestions for the publication included articles on the new president,
board members, key chapter managers and volunteers; the current organization’s level of valuing retirees; articles which
update the organization about the activities of one or two retirees who were well known across the organization; and many
others. The editor of the Newletter is reviewing each individual suggestion and will likely include a number of new ideas and
suggestions in coming publications.
The Benefits Service Center has special personnel and computerized data to assist retirees efficiently. However, some
retirees mentioned in the survey a desire to be able to “talk to a real person” at national headquarters as well, about
retirement issues. The ARCRA administrator, Betty Wagner, is located at National Headquarters, and is available to all
retirees at the Association’s Office, 202-303-7184 or by email at wagnerb@usa.redcross.org. If she cannot answer your
questions she is usually able to put you into contact with someone who can.
These are a few of the directions being undertaken by the Association Board. We will continue to listen and look for
ways to support retirees more effectively. Be sure to note, at other places in the newsletter, the various regional efforts
taking place, with some focusing on retiree gatherings, and stay tuned for new and important ways to meet and greet your
fellow retirees.
BlueCross BlueShield Nurseline Available
BlueCross BlueShield members can access the Nurseline, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for assistance with nonemergency
medical questions. Postcards advertising this service have been mailed to members. The Nurseline
phone number, 1-800-535-9700, can also be found on the back of your BCBS medical ID card.
June/July 2008 5

In Memoriam
Edward Franklin Colburn—7 January 2008—lived his life in service to others. He served 45 years
with the American Red Cross, starting at the end of WWII, served with GI’s in the cold fields of Korea, and
then became a director of Red Cross Chapters across the Western USA. After his retirement, he continued to
serve as a volunteer, sharing his wealth of knowledge with the next generation of leaders. In his college
years he traveled the country as a member of the California Quartet and was always a faithful member of the
choir in his church. Ed loved lakes and boats and spent many summers teaching scores of kids to water-ski.
He was devoted to his family but also embraced a very wide circle of friends.
Francis T. Dwyer—9 December 2007—retired accountant with the Penn-Jersey Regional Blood Services
for over 25 years. Retiring in 1995, he continued to bring his strong accounting background and work ethic to
the American Red Cross, as a part time employee in the payroll department. He also served as Treasurer of
the Eastern Pennsylvania Unit of the ARCRA from 1996 until his death. Frank served in the US Navy from
1951 to 1955. A member of a charismatic prayer group, he served as a faithful Eucharistic Minister and was
a devoted member of his church. Frank and his wife, Elizabeth, had celebrated their 50 th Wedding Anniversary
several weeks prior to his death. Frank will be remembered for his conscientious and faithful service to Red
Cross as a staff member, his devotion to his local Retiree Association unit and his ever-present generosity
and sense of humor.
Graham Jamieson—29 March 2008—former American Red Cross, Blood Services Research and
Development Director. A leader and distinguished American Red Cross scientist for 38 years, Dr. Jamieson,
PhD, DSc, directed the American Red Cross Research and Development Program from 1969 to 1984. He
oversaw major growth of the program and expanded the effort into new scientific and technical fields. Under
his guidance, the research and development program achieved national and international recognition and
respect. Dr. Jamieson resigned his position as director to return his full time attention to research and to the
Cell Biology Department (later renamed the Platelet Biology Department) which he headed until his retirement.
His work was continuously funded for 30 years by the National Institutes of Health and earned a MERIT
award from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.
Blanche Gordon Narodick—2 March 2008—a long time volunteer, graduated magna cum laude and phi
beta kappa from the University of Washington School of Journalism in 1930 and was one of the few women
of her era to earn a masters degree, graduating from the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern
University. She enjoyed lifelong personal and professional relationships with colleagues in her professional
association, Women In Communications. She had a very active volunteer life, offering her PR skills for many
Jewish organizations in Seattle, and devoting decades of her life to her most passionate commitment, the
American Red Cross, including serving on the International Committee. She and her husband Philip traveled
extensively including many trips to China. They were responsible for setting up a sister society relationship
with the Red Cross in China. In 1989, she was honored with the Harriman Award for Distinguished Volunteer
Service.
Joyce Karlene Ravenburg—13 October 2007—she travel the world with her husband Ralph Ravenburg,
an executive officer in the Air Force. Her association with the American Red Cross at both the national and
local levels spanned 65 years where she served in many capacities from nurses’ aide, first aid instructor,
volunteer, director of volunteers, disaster volunteer, regional volunteer consultant, to her final position as
The Veterans Administration/Voluntary Services Deputy National Representative. She received the prestigious
Clara Barton Award as acknowledgement for 50 years of meritorious service and was a lifetime board
continued on the next page
6 The Retiree

Cheryl was Ready...Michael and Rachel are Getting Ready….
Are You Ready to Help Save a Life?
Fairfax, Va. (June 13, 2008) – After Cheryl Kravitz’s
week-long trip to Arizona, her husband Michael and
14-year-old daughter Rachel picked her up at
Baltimore-Washington International Airport on
Thursday. On the way home, they stopped for a quick
dinner at a Baltimore County restaurant to wait for
the traffic to cool down a bit.
As they caught up on their week, Cheryl heard a
woman gasp, and the restaurant dining room just froze.
Cheryl says, “I flew from the table to help her the
minute I heard the sound. I heard two gasps and I
was up and over there.”
The woman had reached the bathroom and was
gasping. Cheryl told her, “Don’t worry, I have Red
Cross training.” She got her over the sink and did
abdominal thrusts and back blows and was able to
dislodge the food. Cheryl then stayed with the woman
to make sure she didn’t go into shock.
People were frozen, not knowing what to do. “I
am glad that I knew what to do without panicking or
holding back,” Cheryl said.
Michael and Rachel sat stunned as they watched
Cheryl, mild-mannered wife and mother by day,
become a hero before their eyes. All evening, they
talked and processed the incident.
Rachel kept reflecting on what could have
happened. “Mom, what if you hadn’t been there? That
woman would have died.”
from Left to Right—Rachel, Cheryl and Michael Kravitz
“I told her that's why the Red Cross is so important,” Cheryl
says. “You get training and then you run toward the trouble to
help, not away from it.”
“I can’t imagine what would have happened if we hadn’t been
there,” Michael says. “There were a bunch of waiters standing
around the woman offering her water, but other than that no one
was doing anything.”
Michael and Rachel are now motivated to take a First Aid/
CPR course so they can be prepared to help that person in need.
“Rachel and I thought, we’d better be well versed in this so we
can help someone in trouble,” he said. “If either of us has a chance
to save a life and actually does it, it will be time very well spent.”
Cheryl Kravitz is an active member of the Retiree Association
and the associate editor of The Retiree.
In Memoriam, continued from previous page
member of the Centex Chapter of the American Red Cross in Austin, TX. Other organizations she proudly
served included the Officer’s Wives Club, the Retired Officer’s Wives Club, Austin Women’s Club, Austin
Heritage Society and the Wilshire Garden Club. Her gorgeous Begonias and Orchids received numerous
awards at the annual Garden Show.
Jean C. Yates—31 July 2007—throughout her life, Jean and her husband Lt. Col. Jack Yates lived in
many locations around the world, including Japan, Hawaii, Iceland, Germany and Diego Garcia. She proudly
served many years as a volunteer and later as an employee of the American Red Cross. Jean will be greatly
missed by all who loved and knew her.
Note: Most of the “In Memoriam” information comes from local ARCRA units, so please keep us informed on a
timely basis so no one is overlooked.
June/July 2008 7

UNIT DOINGS
Connecticut Unit—at their March meeting the group
viewed two DVD presentations: The first, “In The Spirit Of
Clara Barton,” was produced by the American Red Cross
Overseas Association and presented an oral history of
women who served overseas during World War II as hospital
workers, clubmobile workers and field staff. The second,
“An American Nurse At War, The Story of World War I
Red Cross Nurse Marion McCune Rice,” produced by the
Red Cross Chapter in Keene, NH, traces Marion’s
experience helping wounded soldiers and civilians in France
during the first World War. Both these documentaries are
very inspirational and make a good program for unit meetings.
Greater New York Unit—the Greater New York
Chapter plans to sponsor quarterly meetings for the local
ARCRA unit and Angelo Cinti has been instrumental in
developing this new relationship. Opportunities for retirees
to get involved with the chapter include a complimentary
Red Cross CPR class, calling and thanking donors, and
various tasks in the Disaster operations center.
Evergreen (Washington) State Unit—members
hopped on a ferry and headed across the water to Anderson
Island for their June luncheon meeting hosted by association
member Julie Burger in her home. Julie recently completed
a three-year term on the American Red Cross Board of
Governors and remains active in national affairs. The
meeting was called to order by Joyce Bottenberg, president,
and there was lively discussion on the benefits of the
ARCRA, communications issues with national and the
restructuring of the Red Cross. The unit has a popular
fund raising White Elephant Raffle—an event which has
evolved into a competition between members to see who
can produce the most delectable goodies!
Gulf Coast Unit—information was shared about the
Elderhostel Program for those who are interested in learning
more about trips that are available. A member shared his
experience on one of the Elderhostel trips which he said
was educationally rewarding. The group was given an
update on the new Chapter House that is to be constructed
with funds that were donated by the government of Kuwait
during Hurricane Katrina. The land has been purchased
and a contractor is working on the plans.
South Central Texas Unit—a phone list is maintained
on all members with callers assigned to touch base with
everyone periodically to keep them updated on what the
local unit is doing and also find out how each member is
doing. The June meeting will be a BBQ with the speaker
being Mike Bennett, CEO, San Antonio Chapter, covering
the reorganization of the national Red Cross.
Greater Washington-Baltimore Unit—at the June
meeting, Anna Shearer, senior director, Employee Benefits
and Retirement Programs, spoke about what future changes
may affect retirement income and benefits and she allowed
ample time for questions. There was also a presentation on
the opportunity of becoming a guide/docent for National
Headquarters. Linda Mathes, CEO of the National Capital
Area Chapter, thanked donors and encouraged retirees to
volunteer at the chapter. The meeting concluded with a
continued on the next page
Front Row: Audrey Anderson, Julie Burger, Alice Peterson,
Carter Taylor, Eileen Rahn. Back Row: Gerald Moczynski,
Joyce Bottenberg, Norm Bottenberg, Sally Culverwell
Winners of the Trivia Contest, from left to right: Mary Jane
Lavin, Peggy O’Neill, Kitty Hess, Mary Kay Friday and
Bonnie Virch—coming all the way from South Carolina where
she now lives.
8 The Retiree

Ready When the Time Comes
The American Red Cross anticipates spending millions as it moves forward with relief efforts for the victims of flooding
and tornadoes across seven states, an enormous geographic area. From Kansas to West Virginia, the Red Cross is present
with vast amounts of clean-up supplies, dozens of shelters and tens of thousands of meals.
Already, more than 1,400 Red Cross workers are assisting people in the affected area, and the organization is gearing up
to provide additional relief. The current relief operations follow two extremely busy months for the Red Cross, with 27
disaster operations in April and May. These operations will cost the Red Cross millions of dollars and the help of the
American public is needed to meet the growing needs.
“Our first priority in flooding is to provide shelter and food for people in the immediate area until the waters recede and
recovery can begin,” said Joe Becker, senior vice president, Disaster Services for the American Red Cross. “But the help
we give depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public.”
Recently, the Red Cross has responded to tornados in Kansas, and floods in Iowa, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Indiana and
West Virginia. Thousands of people are staying in more than 41 shelters and more than 115,000 meals and snacks have
been served. This spring, the American Red Cross responded to more than 30 large scale disasters due to severe weather.
The Red Cross is coordinating with local emergency officials, community organizations and faith-based groups to preposition
relief supplies, such as cots, blankets and comfort kits, and is preparing to open additional shelters if needed. The
Red Cross encourages those affected to register their status on the Safe and Well Web site on www.redcross.org so loved
ones can know they are safe.
It is anticipated that relief efforts will cost tens of millions of dollars. In order to quickly respond to anyone with
disaster-caused needs, the Red Cross must have money available immediately. This emergency resource is provided by the
Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund.
Visit www.redcross.org to find out the latest information and learn how you can help; you can also visit http://
redcrossmidwestflooding.wordpress.com/maps/ to view an interactive map for the current Red Cross response.
All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the
American people. The American Red Cross honors donor intent. If you wish to designate your donation to a specific
disaster please do so at the time of your donation. Call 1-800-REDCROSS or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to
the Disaster Relief Fund may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P. O. Box
37243, Washington, DC 20013. Internet users can make a secure online contribution by visiting www.redcross.org.
continued from the previous page
series of facilitated activities (led by members Rose Plowchin and Cheryl Kravitz)
that allowed people to have fun and learn more about each other.
New England Unit—Dimple Rana, International Services, American Red
Cross of Massachusetts Bay, discussed an exhibit of photography called “A
Memory of Humanity: From Solferino to Guantanamo—145 Years of Red Cross
Photography.” She explained that the exhibit of 86 photographs came from the
huge collection of photographs at the Red Cross Museum in Geneva. Following
Boston the exhibit will be traveling to Miami, Chicago, the West Coast and then
to Russia. The pictures illustrate Red Cross humanitarian action including relief
for the wounded, protection of prisoners of war, restoration of family ties,
assistance to civilians, and the dissemination of international law.
Greater Cleveland Unit—Steve Bullock was the speaker at the February
meeting and brought the group up-to-date on changes in the American Red Cross,
the search for a new president, financial deficits and staff cutbacks, and the
change in structure of the Retirement System. He also talked about what he
does every day as a retiree and presented Evelyn Faulkner with a certificate that
recognized her valuable service as a member of the national ARCRA board.
Evelyn Faulkner and Steve Bullock
June/July 2008 9

Red Cross volunteer serves the Army more than half a century
The Army is her life. For more than half a century,
Ethel Kulhanek has served the U.S. Army in one way
or another.
She entered the Army in 1942, among the first
group of women to serve in the Women’s Army
Auxilary Corps. Later, she became an Army wife after
marrying her husband, Lt. Col. B.J. Kulhanek. But, it
was her tireless service with the American Red Cross
that proved Ethel Kulhanek a living Army legacy, her
volunteer career spanning more than 58 years.
She began volunteering with the Red Cross at Fort
Hood, Texas, in 1949. Her husband had just returned
from Korea.
“A friend of my husband’s needed someone with
a top secret clearance for a reserve unit,” said
Kulhanek. And so she began volunteering.
Kulhanek volunteered, “Every place we were
stationed.” After multiple tours in Germany and
stateside, Kulhanek was volunteering at Fort Sill,
Okla., when her husband passed away in 1966.
“I had lost Joe and I just stayed there.
[Volunteering] made me realize there’s a world out
there. There’s a lot of work to be done, and I wanted
to do something. It kept my sanity,” said Kulhanek.
“I knew how important it was and I just stayed with
it.” And stay with it she has.
Every Tuesday, wearing her official Red Cross
‘Gray Lady’ uniform, Kulhanek boards the shuttle
bus from her home at Knollwood Army Retirement
Community in northwest D.C., to Walter Reed to take
vital signs for patients in the gynecology oncology
clinic. “A very simple but important function,” said
nurse manager Ivy Berry, Kulhanek’s supervisor at
the clinic since 2004.
Berry said the fact that the clinic serves solely
women and women with cancer makes Kulhanek’s
presence invaluable, especially for female Soldiers.
‘Miss Ethel,’ as she is affectionately known, is an
example of a woman who is still willing to help other
women, she said.
“Taking their blood pressure, she makes eye
contact. That’s when she’s giving them these words
of encouragement. She gets in their personal space,
touching them on their arm, on their shoulder. Holding
their hand,” said Berry. “She brings them so much inspiration.
She lets them know whatever problems are there, with faith in
God, you can get through it.”
“She has such a contagious smile,” said Berry. “She’s lovely;
a happy spirit, giving soul, doing God’s work.”
“She’s our co-worker,” said Berry. “She leaves me a voicemail
when she can’t come in.”
But hardly anything can keep Kulhanek away from her volunteer
work, including a recent fall (without serious injury) in the clinic
on her way home. The next week, Kulhanek returned to work on a
cane, only to be sent home by her doctor.
After the clinic staff threw Kulhanek’s 89th birthday party last
November, Berry said Kulhanek rushed the group to finish up
their ice cream and cake because the party encroached upon her
work time.
“She said, ‘We’ve got to wrap this up — we’ve got to go to
work’,” recalled Berry.
Kulhanek’s enthusiasm and willingness to give is priceless,
said Berry. “She epitomizes the whole concept of how much you
can receive from giving.”
“I’m selfish. I’m doing what makes me feel good,” said
Kulhanek. “When you feel needed, that’s the most important
thing,” she said. “I owe it [volunteering] rather than it owes me.”
American Red Cross volunteer Ethel Kulhanek (left) shares a
moment with Ivy Berry, nurse manager for the gynecology oncology
department at Walter Reed.
10 The Retiree

Making Your Will: Easy as ABC!
A lot of people find it easy to delay making a will. By some
estimates, as many as 85% of us do not have one. We
procrastinate because we think estate planning is hard. But really,
it is not all that difficult. In fact, creating a will can be as simple
as ABC! Here’s how:
Assets. Begin by making an inventory of all your assets:
Insurance, retirement, bank, and brokerage accounts, real
estate, vehicles, artwork, jewelry—everything you own. Once
you have the list, estimate the value of your assets and then
deduct any debts or mortgages you may have. This will give
you a rough idea of the total value of your estate. Having this
information well organized can save both time and money when
the will is actually written.
Beneficiaries. Whom do you want to receive your assets,
and in what amounts? First, consider family needs and
obligations. Then think about the charitable organizations that
are important to you, and how a bequest could benefit them
while creating a lasting legacy for you.
Confidants. Choose trustworthy individuals to provide legal
and other professional assistance, as well as a personal
representative to help settle your estate. You may also need to
select one or more trustees and guardians for any minor children.
Once you have listed and valued your assets, selected the
beneficiaries for your estate (don’t forget charitable
organizations!) and have chosen the key persons to assist you
now and after your death, it is time to act! Don’t delay. Contact
an estate-planning attorney right away and move forward!
If you need help finding a good attorney, ask your friends
for suggestions or contact the trust department of your bank
for a referral. Ask around until you find someone with whom
you feel comfortable. If you wish, we in the Gift Planning Unit
of the American Red Cross can assist you with this process.
While creating a will is not nearly as difficult as you might
have thought, it does take some time. But the end result—a
deep sense of satisfaction and peace of mind—is well worth it!
To help make the process of planning for your and your
family’s future even easier, we have a wonderful tool available
for you. Our Wills and Estate Planning Kit is a comprehensive
kit that includes a checklist and suggestions to help you organize
the important information outlined above. It also explains why
it is so important to have a valid will. To obtain a copy, contact
our staff at National Headquarters – Laura Thomas: 202-303-
4050 (thomaslau@usa.redcross.org), Melissa Copher: 202-303-
4059 (CopherM@usa.redcross.org) or MissyHam-Cross: 202-
303-5538 (Hamr@usa.redcross.org). The kit is free, but the
information it contains is priceless!
Disney Posters Cheer Up War
Zone Offices
The series of four Disney Posters, with Disney
characters shown depicting Red Cross services, were
sent to Red Cross offices in the war zone by the
ARCRA. The following thank you notes were received.
“On behalf of the American Red Cross Service to
the Armed Forces, Team 15, Tikrit, Iraq, we would like
to express our appreciation for the donation of the
American Red Cross Disney Posters we received from
the Retiree Association. These will be framed and placed
in our office and in the Red Cross Canteen to benefit
the troops that come through. Thanks again for these
wonderful poster. They are truly appreciated and will be
a great asset to the Speicher office.”
Sandy Chambers, Team Leader
Speicher JACS (Team 15)
“Thank you for your generous donation of four
Disney American Red Cross Posters to our station office
on Camp Liberty, Baghdad, Iraq. These posters will
help make our office bright, cheery and welcoming for
service members and contractors serving in Operation
Iraqi Freedom. Your heartfelt support ensures that the
Red Cross can continue to provide a touch of home to
our troops, whenever and wherever needed.”
Lynn Pentecost, Team Leader
American Red Cross, Baghdad, Iraq
If retirees would like to brighten or cheer up a home
or office, Red Cross Disney Posters can be ordered
from the national ARCRA office for $15 for each set of
four posters, plus $5.00 shipping and handling for up to
three sets.
June/July 2008 11

GET RED CROSS DISCOUNTS
Philips Lifeline Systems
More than 44 million American families are caring for
a loved one at home, and American Red Cross
employees, retirees and volunteers are no exception. As
part of its effort to spread awareness and support for
the growing number of family caregivers, Philips Lifeline
(a home monitoring service targeted toward seniors and
the physically challenged) offers enrollment discounts
for American Red Cross employees, retirees and
volunteers. Those who choose to participate in the Philips
Lifeline System can receive free activation for themselves
or their family members with enrollment (a value of
$80.00) by calling 1-800-959-6989 and mentioning
promotion code R85-MA906. The easy to use medical
alert system is intended to help reduce the risk of injury
when family members are living alone or left
unaccompanied at home. Care givers have the peace of
mind and reassurance that in the event of a fall or
emergency, help is available at the push of a button.
For more information about Philips Lifeline services
offered by the American Red Cross, please contact Ellen
Jones at 1-202-303-4759.
SMARTBOX Portable Self Storage
The Red Cross is pleased to announce that it has
contracted with SMARTBOX Portable Self Storage to
provide nationwide portable self-storage and local/long
distance containerized moving solutions for all
employees, retirees and volunteers. This program allows
you to rent an eight foot long portable SMARTBOX
container for your local storage needs, or should you
need local or long distance moving services,
SMARTBOX can move your containers across town
or across the country at a 10% discount off of
SMARTBOX retail pricing.
In order to take advantage of this Red Cross specific
pricing be sure to reference the Red Cross specific
Access [Promo] Code of RCER05 when you call
SMARTBOX at 1-877-627-8269 or visit the SMARTBOX
website. For any inquiries about the program, please
contact Shaunell Ford or the SMARTBOX Customer
Order Center at 1-877-627-8269.
For more information on these and many other money
savings benefits you may contact the ARCRA national
office at 202-303-7184 or wagnerb@usa.redcross.org.
American Red Cross Retiree
Association
1730 E St. NW, Room 108
Washington DC 20006