Home About Us Photo Album Guestbook Memorial Page Obits Future TimeWatchers For Sale Lifers Archives Links Contact

SPOTLIGHT ON UWE SCHWERSENSKY (SKI)

June 2010

Uwe Schwersensky was born in Berlin Germany on October 4, 1934. Ski, his brother & sister grew up in Germany during one of the most difficult times of the 20^th century. Ski’s father was a social worker and at the beginning of the War and had to leave his job as he was identified by the government as a half-Jew. His entire family was subject to arrest and detention if found. His father’s boss tipped his father of the situation and helped Ski’s dad by employing him as a courier delivering movies to theaters all over the Berlin area. His dad’s boss had taken a post as a movie distributor and was within the loop of information about SS and other police efforts to round up those persons identified as enemies of the state,( as movies and propaganda were very important and valuable and were moved in liaison with such activity), which was ongoing throughout the war in the Berlin metropolitan area. Ski’s father’s boss would have him move his family when information would be provided of police action in the area where the Schwersensky’s lived. Ski said that they moved so many times from Berlin, to Saxony, to East Prussia and then again to Berlin always in advance of a sweep in each section.

The Schwesensky family was blessed to have all survived this terrifying existence, coupled by the constant allied bombing, ongoing sweeps by the secret police, and finally near the end of the war the shaking and rumbling of Russian tanks roaring down the streets in front of the family home entering Berlin. Ski related that they spent so much time in the fortified deep basements during these periods, but were thankful for surviving the War.

Ski first came to the United States as a teen exchange student in 1952 and was hosted his senior year of high school in Bucks county Pennsylvania where he graduated in 1953. He returned to Germany as his student visa had expired. In 1955 Ski returned to the United States to become a citizen and joined the United States Air Force where he completed basic and Tech school graduating as a USAF photographer. Just after finishing Tech School in 1956, Ski was sent to West Germany through 1960. In 1960 he returned to the US working at White sands test range. Ski was then moved to Denver, CO. where he was injured in an auto accident and after recovering he was sent to school and certified as a master - Instructor and taught class sections in skills in developing and handling of high altitude recon films and camera systems. In 1966, Ski volunteered for Viet Nam and served in Saigon as a Photography support in recon. Ski was awarded the Bronze Star during his participation and action during the Tet offensive. In 1969, Ski was sent to Japan TDY Okinawa along with the SR71 aircraft. In 1972, Ski was sent to cross training in Hawaii, as the SR 71 program was ending for him and he became a Security Police Officer and was a “cop” for the next couple of years. By 1979, Ski was returned to the US and stationed in Michigan and was preparing to retire. His wife’s sister lived in Cocoa and checked the local job market, along with Patrick AFB being near; Titusville was a good choice for a place to live. As a result of Ski’s sister in laws efforts, George Lee (also an USAF retiree) a new Personnel Officer at a newer prison located in the rural community of Sharpes, Florida called Ski and asked if he would like to come to Florida to work and in 1979, Uwe Schwersensky started his career as a Correctional Officer with the Florida Department of Corrections. Ski worked the Main Unit (mostly the third shift) as well as opened the Work Camp in 1990 and then before retiring finished up at the Main Unit. Sergeant Schwersky could always be counted on and was a valuable asset to his shift. Ski worked from 1979 till he retired in 1997.

Ski is very proud of his family of 4 girls and 1 boy. The girls, one living in Port St. John, one in Oklahoma, two in Denver and a Son in California are all doing well and visit as often as possible giving Grandpa a chance at spoiling those grand and great grand children.

Ski enjoys yard selling, computer work and repair, Get2Gethers and our face-book group. If you want to catch up with Uwe (Ski) all you have to do is join our group on face-book or plan to attend one of our activities and you will find him there. Ski is a Charter Member of our DC TimeWatchers group and his loyalty to our group as well as his participation in our events has helped make our efforts a success.

If you want to give Ski a shout out and aren’t part of our facebook group, hurry up and join, but you can also email him at uweschwersensky@yahoo.com

DC TIMEWATCHERS HOSTS LUNCH FOR CORRECTIONS CLASS 10C1

JUNE 2010

The DC TimeWatchers hosted the Corrections Academy Class lunch for 10C1 on June 7, 2010. The DCTW Group hosts a lunch (cookout) for every BCC Corrections Academy with Fl. DOC recruits. It is a way for our group to outreach and support our new staff of professional Correctional Officers on their first leg of their careers. The DC TimeWatchers always has a good turnout of members to help prepare and feed the class. Our main man on the grill was Richard Puglio, 22 years. He schedules his busy life around our cookout lunches and is always the chief cook for this frequent event. Also supporting operations on the lunch is Retiree Frank Ramos, 20 years (also the Firearms Coordinator for the BCC Institute of Public Safety), Lori Girard Retiree (now fulltime) 29 years of service and Keith Kiser, Retiree 30 years. Sergeant Mike Walsmith, still working DCTW member along with Sergeant George M. Harrison, Lieutenant Robert Wilson and Captain Don Tapper. The DCTW’s appreciate Brevard’s Colonel Rob Lowe and Recruiter Vashon Berry for joining us in our luncheon for the recruits.

Class 10C1 consists of 22 DC employees, 10 BCSO Officers and 3 self paid recruits. The class is BIG and one of the most disciplined and cooperative groups according to every Instructor we have talked to. Their graduation is July 15, 2010 and DCTW Keith Kiser has been asked and honored to be their graduation guest speaker. During our luncheon, the entire class came together and presented Range Director and DCTW member Frank Ramos with a beautiful plaque for his guidance and help during their firearms phase of the class. They also extended a heartfelt thank you to all members of the DCTW group who sponsors the lunch for the recruits. Also special thanks for the support of Melissa Walker, Corrections Coordinator who also joined us for the event and was instrumental in scheduling this opportunity. Please check out our photographs of the DCTW Crew and the event.

Click pictures to enlarge!

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY

FIRST BREAKFAST JULY 3rd!!!!

July 3, 2020

Eleven DC TimeWatchers showed up and enjoyed breakfast together at the Whistle Junction Restaurant in Titusville on July 3rd. Those in attendence included, George & Ruth Merklinger, Jackie & John Shearer (John just got released from the hospital following a heart attack and is doing well), Larry Cruce, Richard Puglio, John Cummings, E.J. Smith, Uwe Schwersensky, Kathie & Keith Kiser.

We enjoyed good company and a good breakfast selection. Allen Spence is off on a BMW motorcycle ride to Oregon for a rally and we wish him a safe journey and full report with pictures of that new nifty phone by the time he comes home here in a few days.

Don't forget to mark Saturday August 7, 2010 on your calendar to join us next month at our FIRST SATURDAY DCTW BREAKFAST.

Click pictures to enlarge:

Great Breakfast Gathering on Saturday June 5, 2010

June 5, 2010

FIRST SATURDAY BREAKFAST was GREAT. Who says the summer is slow for activities. We had 17 DC TimeWatchers in attendance at Whistle Junction and everyone had a great time. If you missed it you need to mark Saturday July 3, 2010 on your calendar right now and plan to join us at 9:00 am at Whistle Junction for our Next FIRST SATURDAY BREAKFAST. Those in attendance included John Cummings, E.J. Smith, Allen Spence, Richard Puglio, Larry Cruce, Amos Lewis, Keith Kiser, FIRST TIMER- Pat Peterson, John & Jackie Shearer, Richard Lopresto, Larry Reed, George & Ruth Merklinger, Paul & Lorraine Thomas and guest James Kelley. The food was good and everyone had a nice visit. Much discussion about upcoming activities, trips and such were covered. On the one end of the table Larry had been up in Tennessee looking for property, Allen was still bragging about that new Jeep hardtop he brought last month and planning for his trip to the pacific NW on his BMW bike in a couple of weeks, Paul Thomas lost a new bag of clubs out of his truck somewhere on his way to play golf (close the tail-gate next time Paul!) also, Congrats to Paul Thomas, who will be officially retired on June 30, 2010, Pat Peterson who retired a few months ago, and other “important” things was the subject up and down both ends of the table. You will just have to come and be a part next month as there is just too much to listJ

A camera was remembered this time, so you can see who was there.

Click pictures to enlarge:

Spotlight - Robert L. Smith

April 1, 2010

R. L. Smith and his brother E. J. Smith (both DC TIMEWATCHERS) were born and raised near Fitzgerald Georgia.

In 1937, R.L. Smith left home and joined the CCC and spent most of the following year building roads in the area of Eugene Oregon. After which R.L. returned to Georgia, applied to the Army and spent quite a while waiting on a vacancy (At that time you couldn’t get in to the Army unless there was a vacancy). Finally, on 2/9/40 R.L. was sworn in to the US Army at Ft. Benning Ga. For the next 20 years, 5 months and 23 days he served his nation.

R.L. retired from the Army on 9/30/60 while living in Italy. He returned to the US initially settling in central Florida and taking a job as running the Kitchen at what was then a women’s prison near Ocala, but $300 a month was not enough for a married fellow with 2 kids in school.

He worked for the next little while for Pan American, downrange. After his time with Pan Am, R.L. returned to Mims, Florida, where his mom and dad had initially retired from Georgia.

Once in Brevard County, he went to work in Civil Service at Patrick AFB where he served 11.5 years. He left on disability with a battle with cancer in 1975. After about a year, being a cancer survivor, R.L. again went back to Patrick hoping to return to work. Unfortunately his position was no longer available.

So in 1976 R.L. Smith started to work at a brand new prison located in Sharpes, named BREVARD CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION in the Food Service Department. R.L. became the standard for food service at Brevard CI. His extensive military expertise and good common sense was always an asset to the agency. He wielded that damned spatula like a light saber and moved those chow lines and taught inmate workers more than they could have learned at any college about food service. “Go that way!” was a familiar line to those lingering in front of a server for any extra portions or favors. Smitty, as we all called him, became the Food Service Sergeant and later Vocational Food Service Instructor. But he made it happen every day he walked in those gates.

Smitty transferred to Security and finished his career as the Security Officer in the Warehouse in 1987.

After retiring from Brevard, Smitty worked as a security officer for the USA newspaper in Melbourne for 8 years. R.L. then retired and subsequently built a home in Maggie Valley NC. In 2000, Mrs. Smith, R.L.’s wife of 57 years passed away. R.L. sold his home and moved into the Armed Forces Retirement Home in Washington DC. After about a year and a half, he decided to transfer to the Gulfport Mississippi location just in time for Hurricane Katrina and R.L. found himself without a place to live. He moved to Lake City Florida where he lived temporarily with his sister. R.L. became involved in the local Church and subsequently met his current wife, Bonnie Timrick. R.L. and Bonnie live outside of Lake City and enjoy the quiet pace of country living.

R.L. shares that he has two great adult children, Mary Lou of Melbourne and Bob of Maggie Valley NC and two super Grand Daughters of whom he is extremely proud. Of course his brother EJ, Sis and a whole group of extended “family” including the original crew of DC TimeWatchers with whom he served the State of Florida so well. R.L. attends every GET2GETHER he can, so plan on attending and see if you can catch R.L. and the rest of the gang.

May Breakfast

May 1, 2010

We had 13 at the table and a visit from 2 others with a grand total of 15 folks at our May 1st Breakfast at the Whistle Junction. Those in attendance were Larry Cruce, Uwe Schwersensky, Amos Lewis, John & Jackie Shearer, Allen Spence, E.J. Smith, Richard Puglio, Tom & Sandi Fernstrom, Jack Cummings Jack Phillips, Keith Kiser and Visiting DC TimeWatchers, Judy & Mark Kuhns, who just happened upon us on our First Saturday breakfast.

Congratulations to Mark, who is still working, for his promotion to Colonel at CFRC.

We had a great breakfast time and discussed plans for the upcoming CTI cookout and future activities for our Get2Gethers. We hope to fine tune some opportunities to enhance our future Get2Gethers and discussed expanding our retiree membership. These breakfasts are getting more interesting each time... Make sure you mark, Saturday June 5, 2010 on your calendar and plan to join us at the Whistle Junction Restaurant at 9am for our First Saturday Breakfast next month.

CONGRATULATIONS SERGEANT JASON MARTIN

ON HIS PROMOTION TO SERGEANT!!!!

April 13, 2010

April Breakfast

April 3, 2010

We only had eight folks at breakfast on Saturday 4/3/10, but it was fun. It is always great having a good breakfast with friends on the First Saturday of Each Month. Those in attendance were, Amos Lewis, James Kelley, Keith Kiser, Larry Cruce, George & Ruth Merklinger, Mike Waldsmith and E.J. Smith. Make sure you mark Saturday May 1, 2010 on your calendar and be at the Whistle Junction Restaurant at 9:00 am to join us next month.

WE ARE OFFICIALLY 6 DAYS FROM OUR SPRING GET2GETHER AT DIXIE CROSSROADS AND WE HAVE OVER 95 CONFIRMATIONS! Hope to see everyone there at 11:45 AM on Friday April 9, 2010!

FSDB 2nd Grade Classroom experiment Progress

The DC TimeWatchers sponsors Mrs. Kaspar's 2nd grade class in the deaf elementary section of the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind.

"The DC TimeWatchers Group provided this experiment for the class and all the students are absolutely excited about their Butterflies". Those DCTW members Interested in following the class's progress in this Butterfly experiment can do so by clicking the link to join the "action". :)

Check out our butterfly page!

"Welcome Jack Andrew, Our newest DC TimeWatcher!"

Congratulations to proud parents, Stephen and Tonyia on the birth of their son, Jack at Winnie Palmer at 2:27 A.M. on April 10, 2010. Look forward to seeing him at our DC TimeWatchers gatherings.

Spotlight - Bill Rickenbrode

February 1, 2010

Bill Rickenbrode was born in Wichita Kansas and raised in Hope Kansas with his brother and sister, graduating from Hope Rural High School in 1960. Bill’s dad was an auto and diesel mechanic and then a truck driver for a large agricultural chemical company. His mom also worked for the same company as a PR printer.

After High School, Bill attended a year at Kansas State and then joined the Air Force for the next 4 years. Bill’s Air Force days included residences in Texas, Mississippi and Florida. Bill met Carol, his wife in Hope Kansas and was married on August 14, 1965. After the Air Force, Bill worked as an auto mechanic at Chevrolet dealerships in Kansas and Florida.

On January 7, 1977, Bill hired on with the Florida Department of Corrections at Brevard CI assigned as the dorm officer in H2-B Dormitory (now known as G Dorm). He went to CTI at Union CI and when he returned he still had H2-B Dorm, except now on the Midnight shift. By early summer 1977 Bill was moved to an inside security spot and then to the control room. In late September, Bill was promoted to the Education department as the Auto Shop Instructor. In August of 1978, Bill was promoted again to the Industries Shop Manager (now Y dorm). In 1984, P.R.I.D.E. took over the operation of the Industries and from that time till November, Bill worked for them. In November of 84, Bill returned to Security and was subsequently assigned to the Laundry where he was promoted to Sergeant and remained in the Laundry until he retired on January 30, 2004.

After retiring in June of 2004, Bill and Carol moved back to Kansas to take care of his mother, who is 92 this year. Bill and Carol have busied themselves building, decorating, landscaping and gardening their new home to their satisfaction. Carol wrapped up a career with the State of Kansas and just retired this past April. Bill hobbies with wood cutting and attends as many craft shows as he and Carol can.

Now that Carol is retired as well, they enjoy traveling to see their children, their oldest lives in Council Grove, Kansas with a grandson and granddaughter. Their Daughter lives in Clemmons, NC with two grandsons and their youngest son lives in Palm Bay Florida and has no children at this time. The youngest son and family in Palm Bay is a good draw for us to get to see Bill and Carol a couple times a year at our Get2Gethers and activities. Bill and Carol are Charter members of our group and also a member of our DC TimeWatchers group on facebook. If you want to catch up with Bill and Carol, drop him an email at ricken64@tctelco.net or join us on the facebook group and just send him a message on facebook or better yet, come on to the Get2Gether on April 9, you will probably catch Bill and Carol right there.

It is always great to get to visit with Bill and Carol when they are in the area.

Brevard Correctional Flying their Colors

Yes we are! Typically in this business you would think of gang activities however Brevard C.I. is proud to fly their true colors in Memory and Support of Our Heroes Serving Our Country. Everyone has been one space further from the front door since December in honor of those heroes. The reserved space is for any of Our Heroes that return home. Fortunately, BCI hasn’t any staff abroad at the present, however it does bring a warm though to those who have recently returned home it provides a sense of pride for all those who pass by knowing we have heroes away from us daily fighting for our independence and safety.

Click picture to view

FSDB GORE HALL ELEMENTARY STUDENTS TAKE THIRD PLACE IN STATE DOE COMPETITION FOR A PSA FOR “JUST READ, FLORIDA”

Very talented students from our Sponsored school, the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind took 3^rd place in the 2010 Florida Department of Education PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT contest, Celebrating Literacy Week. Teachers; Jessica Kaspar, Jessica Stultz, Theresa Colbert, Bethany Peacock, Sarah Reed and 6 students from FSDB from 1st-5th grade participated. The FSDB team worked hard and produced a PSA about the importance of reading and submitted it for the competition for the 2010 PSA competition.

The FSDB team won 3^rd place competing with other schools statewide. The school receives a $250 prize from the DOE and each child who participated in the PSA receives a single day Park Hopper family 4 pack of tickets to Disney.

The FSDB team did a great job…. Want to see it!!! Go to www.justreadflorida.com/literacyweek.asp and click on 3^rd place video under the Elementary School submissions.

Congratulations to all the Students and Teachers who worked so hard on this project! WE ARE PROUD OF YOU!!!!

On January 24, 2010, Students and teachers traveled to Tallahassee where they received recognition for their hard work from Lieutenant Governor Kottcamp. Check out the picture.

Way to go FSDB Team!!!

THE DC TIMEWATCHERS

MARCH BREAKFAST NEWS

March 6, 2010

We had the following DC TimeWatchers at breakfast with us today: E.J. Smith, Lorna Travis, Uwe Schwersensky, Larry Reed, Richard Lopresto, Larry Cruce, John & Jackie Shearer, Amos Lewis, Kathy & Steve Senter and son Richard McCullogh. That makes a perfect dozen!

Steve was in from Iraq and it is always great to see him and Kathy. I had to tease Kathy's Son Richard a bit about how little he was the last time I saw him. He is a grown man now. Lorna Travis was wintering in Oak Hill from North Georgia and joined us for breakfast as well. Amos had worked overtime and stopped to join us for breakfast. The rest of the crew, Ski, Keith, Larry C, Larry R and Rich L. just had a good time catching up with everyone.

You need to mark next month on your calendar, Saturday April 6 and plan to come on out and join us for the monthly breakfast. We always have a good crowd and it is good to catch up on happenings in each of our lives. You are invited to be a part.

Don't forget we have both, a breakfast next month on Saturday April 3, and our GET2GETHER at Dixie Crossroads on Friday April 9 at 11:45am. Hope to see Everyone then.

Click Pictures to enlarge

Around the Breakfast Table

February 6, 2010

FEBRUARY 2010 BREAKFAST COUNT "LUCKY 14"

"February's breakfast was very nice with a good turnout. Fourteen folks showed including, Tom & Maria Komon and Alex, Joni Brooks, Larry Reed, Richard Lopresto, Keith & Kathie Kiser, E.J. Smith, Marvin and Marina Ryan and Marv's brother Jerry Ryan along with Jackie and John Shearer. Breakfast was exceptionally great and for those who get there before 9:00 am you get a discount on the meals... So mark your calendars right now for Saturday, March 6, 2010 and plan to join the DCTW Breakfast Club at 9:00am at the Whistle Junction in Titusville for the First Saturday event. We all joined in wecoming Joni Brooks back to Florida from the frozen north... She moved from New York back to the Titusville area. So we will be counting on seeing Joni at more events as the year progresses."

Please see the attached photographs.

Click pictures to enlarge

Congratulations Sgt. Jessie Hatfield

Major J. O'Bryan, Sgt. Jessie Hatfield, Major P. Harris

On December 4, 2009, Officer Jessie Hatfield was promoted to Sergeant at Brevard Correctional Institution.

DC TimeWatchers wish to congratulate Jessie on his recent promotion and wish him the best in his new position.

Spotlight - James "Rip"Collins

January 1, 2010

James (Rip) Collins was born and raised in Chatham New York with his 4 brothers and 2 sisters. Jim served in the US Navy from 1948 to 1955. Jim married Nancy in 1951 and started their family. Jim’s first job after the navy was with the Chatham Telephone Company from 1955 – 1956. In 1957 Jim and Nancy relocated to Florida and he went to work at R.C.A., G.E., MARTINCO and BOEING. Jim remained active in Veterans Affairs after his service years.

Jim came to work at Brevard C.I. in 1983 initially as the Electrical Maintenance person and then became the Electrical Vocational Instructor. James experience and hard work ethic came so welcome during his first few years at Brevard. He accomplished so much during his first couple of years in maintenance. As an instructor, Jim served as the Florida State President of International Corrections Education Association. His abilities and his skills in sharing his knowledge benefited the educational/vocational program as well as provided work skills to hundreds of inmates who attended his program.

Much to our surprise, our friend and coworker and his lovely wife appeared in the newspaper at a social function at the Whitehouse visiting and socializing with President Clinton on November 11, 1995. We were very proud of James. The invite was the result of a personal recommendation from Jack Carney, National Past President VFW Commander, in recognition of Jim’s service to fellow veterans. Jim retired from Brevard in 1996.

Today James and Nancy reside at 2457 Canterbury Lane in Melbourne where they spend their time enjoying grand children and great grandchildren. They also are loyal and Charter DC TimeWatchers and can be found at our functions and GET2GETHERS. Nancy and Jim are members of our Group on facebook, too. If you want to stay in touch with Jim, you can drop him an email at nancy2jim@aol.com or plan to join us at any future GET2GETHER posted on our website: www.dctimewatchers.com

You will have to personally ask Jim how he got his nickname, Rip, the next time you see him….

Our next BIG GET2GETHER will be April 09, 2009 at 11:45am at the famous Dixie Crossroad’s Restaurant 1475 Garden Street Titusville, Florida, 32796, so put that date on your calendar now and plan to join the DC TimeWatchers for their Spring Luncheon at a great restaurant. Also, don’t forget that our group meets for breakfast the first Saturday of every month at 9 AM at the Whistle Junction restaurant located on SR 405 across from Wal-Mart and in front of the new Target Store not more than 3 minutes from the intersection of SR 50 & I-95.

JANUARY BREAKFAST 2010

FIRST BREAKFAST REPORT!!!

January 2, 2010

The first breakfast of 2010 went off just fine. We had 13 folks show up with first time attendees, Steve Klein, Lisa Klein and Nick Klein along with regulars, Larry Cruce, Allen Spence, George & Ruth Merklinger, Jackie & John Shearer, Tom & Maria Komon & daughter Alex and Keith Kiser. Also coincidentally, new DC TimeWatcher (still working) Lee Molina and family were eating just a couple of tables away sporting their youngest DC TimeWatcher Grand baby… Congratulations Lee and Grandma, (mom too)! That brings our DC TimeWatcher breakfast up to 18!!!

It was great seeing Steve, Lisa and Nick. The last time I saw Nick he was in diapers.... He is a grown up man now. Some of us are getting old (I think it is Steve & Lisa). Steve is the Chief Correctional Officer at Lawtey and Lisa is a Sergeant at Baker CI and happened to be visiting family in the area this weekend and it was truly nice catching up with them. We all enjoyed a great breakfast with our friends. No one left hungry and we had a great time visiting.

Make sure you mark your calendar for Saturday February 6, 2010 to join us at Whistle Junction at 9am in
Titusville for our February first Saturday “Family” breakfast. You don’t have to be retired to join us. Come on and join the group for breakfast.

Check out our pictures of the FIRST BREAKFAST 2010!

Click pictures to enlarge

Spotlight - Jeff Reed

December 1, 2009

Jeffrey was born in Leesburg, Florida. He moved to Brevard County in the early 60’s, with his mom, four sisters and brother. Jeff was the eldest of the six children. Jeff grew up in the Cocoa/Rockledge area and attended school at Rockledge playing football, basketball and track, lettering in each sport. In August of 1971, Jeff entered the military, serving in the US Army. He served two tours in Germany and one in Korea and left the military in 1984. Jeffrey began his career with the Florida Department of Corrections as a Correctional Officer at Brevard CI in April of 1984, subsequently was promoted to Sergeant and in 1990 opened the work camp. Jeffrey worked all shifts at both units over his career. Sergeant Reed could always be counted on to support staff in any situation and would frequently serve as acting supervisor when the W/C OIC was covering the main unit. Jeffrey retired in June 2005.

Since retiring, Jeffrey has become an aspiring gardener, following that farmer’s almanac to a tee in planting those tomatoes and okra. Jeffrey also enjoys bowling and golfing when his still working golf buddies are available. Now if you are retired and need a golfing partner, check with Jeffrey, he may be available. Jeffrey also shares that as with many of us retired folks, he is driving his wife Andrea crazy. Wait till she retires…

Jeffrey also participates in DC TimeWatchers functions and is a great member and supporter of the group. He can be found on our DC TimeWatchers group page on www.facebook.com

If you want to catch up with Jeffrey, please watch our website and join us at one of our activities or drop him an email at jreed88@cfl.rr.com and join us on facebook.

OUR FIRST ANNUAL CHRISTMAS LETTER 2009!

Hey there all you DC TimeWatchers,

We have had a great year. We clocked over 10,000 hits on our website since launching in April of 08. We have incorporated as a non-profit organization and welcomed over 155 of you all on our facebook group page. We had 73 in attendance at our Dixie Crossroads GET2GETHER in April of 09 and 84 at our picnic in October. Our monthly breakfast attendance range from 7 to 29 on any given first Saturday of each month and ANYONE is liable to show up and is WELCOME. It is always great to see friends, both still working and full-time DC TimeWatchers as well. I know I attend everyone I can. We also purchased several neat projects for the 2^nd grade class at Florida’s School for the Deaf (who we sponsor as a group), which included a Butterfly habitat & life cycle study, a Weather station to better understand weather and a starter Chemistry Set for Experiments for our small friends.

We have had to say good-bye to several great friends and fellow DC TimeWatchers this year, but we were blessed to have them be a part of our journey. Our group is about the Journey and Living and we celebrate the great times and great memories.

Our wish is for each of you and yours to have the best Christmas and Holiday Season ever.

We would like to invite each of you to join our facebook group (if you have not already) and to plan and attend our functions this year. It is so good to see our old friends and to meet new ones. Look around at work (if still working) or at the store when you run into a retiree who is not a member of our group and encourage them to join and to become active in our group and organization. Don’t forget to visit our website frequently, www.dctimewatchers.com and stay in touch with us.

We also want to thank those of you who not only supported us by attending our activities, but especially to all you who have helped make the functions a success through working hard to put them on and/or financially through giving to the DC TimeWatchers, Inc. Thanks to all those still working members, who have had to take leave to be a part of our lives and help work the events, you are appreciated way more than you can imagine.

Here is wishing you all a Merry Christmas and Bright Holiday Season,

Keith Kiser & the DC TimeWatchers, Inc.

DECEMBER BREAKFAST

“BRING ON THEM HOLIDAYS”

December 5, 2009

The Weather outside was wet and cold, but eleven DC TimeWatchers made that trip to Whistle Junction Restaurant in Titusville on Saturday Dec. 5 to have breakfast with the gang. Those attending included first timers, Rod Groom, Rock Suppa, and newly fully retired Jeff Jernigan all the way down here from North Florida. Keith Kiser, George & Ruth Merklinger, E.J. Smith, Jackie & John Shearer and John Cummings and Mike Waldsmith were also present for breakfast. We enjoyed the hospitality of the restaurant and a great breakfast with old friends. Make sure you mark Saturday, Jan. 2, 2010 down on your calendar and start the New Year out right with your DCTW breakfast club right there at Whistle Junction in Titusville at 9:00 am. You never know who is going to show up!

Click pictures to enlarge

DC TimeWatchers Hosts Cookout For Correctional Officers Academy 09C2 From Brevard CI

November 20, 2009

On November 20, 2009 the DC TimeWatchers hosted a cookout lunch for Corrections Academy Class 09C2 from BREVARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE. Class 09C2’s motto is “NO EXCUSES, JUST RESULTS” and certainly reflect that in their dedication and demeanor in their efforts to finish the academy and get to work. DC TimeWatchers, Larry Cruce, Richard Puglio, Bill Boyett, Frank Ramos and Keith Kiser represented the DCTW at the function. The cook out was held at BCC’s range and featured burgers and dogs for the class. It was great socializing with the new recruits and enjoying a great meal. The class provided side dishes, including, deviled eggs, pasta and macaroni salads, chips, homemade cookies, key lime and pumpkin pies, cheese cake and other tasty treats along with the main courses. BCC Corrections Coordinator, Melissa Walker and Brevard County Judge Majeed joined the Retirees and the Academy Class as well.

The DC TimeWatchers wish to extend a hearty thank you for the support and help from everyone who contributed to our group that makes our effort to outreach to our new folks entering the career possible.

Please enjoy the attached photos from the luncheon. If you are a DC TimeWatcher, who would like to join in the teams that make this happen, just email us at the “contact us” link on the website and we will get in touch with you to help at future events. Click here to View Pictures

Congratulations to Tom Potter and Stacey Tosi

On November 6, 2009 Tom was promoted to Assistant Warden at BCI and Stacey to Classification Supervisor at BCI.

We wish them the best of luck in their new duties.

Congratulations Lt. Tangela Weaver

Lt. Weaver and Col. Rob Lowe

On October 30, 2009, Sgt. Tangela Weaver was promoted to Lieutenant at Brevard Correctional Institution.

DC TimeWatchers wish to congratulate Tangela on her recent promotion and wish her the best in her new position.

DC TIMEWATCHERS FALL GET2GETHER ONE OF THE BEST EVER!!!

Friday, October 16, 2009 we had a RECORD BREAKING CROWD OF 83 folks at our Fall GET2GETHER at Tom Statham County Park. I have attached our attendance roster if you want to see who was able to make it, the names in RED are retirees. We had folks living as far as Indiana make the trip along with folks who crossed most of the state of Florida as well as one of our group home from Iraq take time out to join us for our function. Of course let me take a minute and thank everyone who volunteered and worked to help make this happen: Pete Baillargeon, John Shearer II, Larry Cruce, Richard Puglio, Linda Patricks, Charlie Lord, Kathy Woods, Kathy Senter, Tom Burk, Lori Girard, Mike Gooch, Bob Colburn, Jorge Hoffman-Edward Jones Representative, as well as everyone who participated and helped prepare and make it happen. Special thanks to those of you, who contributed above and beyond to the DC TimeWatchers group and made the event financially possible.

Did we have some good food! Side dishes included beans, macaroni and tater salads, meatballs, cake, fudge & candy! Combine that with good burgers and dogs with all the trimmings with chips and you have yourself a good picnic. Add five $20.00 door prizes, two pocket knives, a fancy grill tool set, comforter and jumbo umbrella for retiree door prizes and a 50/50 pot of $105 and you have a lot of happy faces and you have yourself a DC TIMEWATCHERS GET2GETHER!!! It was one of our very best events.

We also were fortunate to be able to open our GET2GETHER in welcoming a new DC TimeWatcher to the group. Staff from Brevard CI joined us and took the opportunity to present Bill Boyett his retirement plaque and gifts for his 29 years of service to the Department. Bill’s official retirement date was September 30. Those who have been retired for a while with still working spouses has briefed him on making sure he cleans up his mess in the kitchen, turn off the television, splash a little water on his face, go out to the workshop just before she gets home and make an entry back into the house when his wife arrives as if he has been so busy all day and did not realize it was so late.… Of course it only works a few times before they catch on… but ride the wave while it lasts….

Please check out the pictures of our GET2GETHER and JOIN US ON FACEBOOK. Don’t forget we want to grow. Encourage still working staff to participate as well as retirees.

While we don’t harp on money and don’t have dues, we do need a few dollars every year to facilitate our activities. To all who have responded with a contribution, THANK YOU. We will send you a reminder next August. I had one member ask me yesterday, how much should he send and I replied, send what you feel you can, every gift is helpful. No one is keeping score. For some, a giving rule of thumb is to eat at home at least one meal instead of a nicer restaurant and put that toward the Group at least once a year. It all helps. Don’t forget you can contribute to our group anytime by going to the DONATE button on the website and doing it electronically or printing out a donation form and mailing it to us. This helps us do what we do, provide opportunities to fellowship and and have a good time.

Attendance Roster

View new pictures click here

Congratulations Captain Bernie Elvin

Warden Michele Bateman Congratulates Bernie Elvin on his promotion to Captain

On October 16, 2009, Lt. Bernie Elvin was promoted to the rank of Captain. He has been assigned as the Third Shift OIC at the Main Unit.

DC TimeWatchers wish to congratulate Bernie on his recent promotion and wish him the best in his new position.

Congratulations Sgt. Kenny Stoner

Major J. O'Bryan, Sgt. K. Stoner, Major P. Harris

On October 2, 2009, Officer Kenny Stoner was promoted to Sergeant at Brevard Correctional Institution.

DC TimeWatchers wish to congratulate Kenny on his recent promotion and wish him the best in his new position.

Congratulations Sgt. Jeremy Powe

Col. Rob Lowe and Sgt. Jeremy Powe

On October 2, 2009, Officer Jeremy Powe was promoted to Sergeant at Brevard Correctional Institution.

DC TimeWatchers wish to congratulate Jeremy on his recent promotion and wish him the best in his new position.

November Breakfast With 15 Friends

November 7, 2009

Breakfast on Saturday November 7, 2009 at Whistle Junction found 15 DC TimeWatchers in attendance. They included, Uwe Schwersensky, Larry Reed, Richard Lopresto, E. J. Smith, Larry Cruce, George & Ruth Merklinger, John and Jackie Shearer, John Moran and wife, Alan Spence and Amos Lewis. Keith was out of town and could not join us.

It was great catching up with everyone and you never know who is going to show up. Our monthly breakfast is nice, so come on and make it even better in December.

Don’t wait, mark Saturday December 5 2009 on your calendar as the next DCTW Breakfast at 9:00am at the Whistle Junction Restaurant in Titusville and come on out and see who shows up…

Look forward to seeing everyone next Month…

Click pictures to enlarge

Spotlight - Nancy Allen

October 1, 2009

Nancy Allen was born and raised in East Cleveland Ohio. When she was twenty-three, she and her entire family was taken to dinner at one of Cleveland’s finest restaurants by a family friend. She laughs that her mother was dismayed when she ordered a hamburger and fries…but that is what she wanted. The friend, Jimmy Hoffa…. You will have to ask Nancy for the details.

Nancy served at Brevard from February 1985 to July 2000. She served as the Secretary in Medical, Counseling & Social Services, Assistant Superintendent and Brevard Work Camp during her career. Nancy was an integral part of our team at Brevard and a supporting administrative anchor during every project and challenge we had. She stepped up to support all ACA audits, management reviews, Security in processing disciplinary reports during emergencies as well as FCCD, Employee Club organizations and functions. Nancy served numerous times as Club/Organization officer over her career in addition to her regular duties. Nancy could be counted on to be there to help, roll up her sleeves and jump right in regardless of what the job was. Nancy was a team player and an asset to our organization. Nancy was also a friend to everyone she came into contact with, which makes her a special person to all who worked with her.

Nancy initially retired to Titusville and remained there a few years, but recently on the prodding of her sons, who live in Vero Beach, finally decided to relocate closer to them. Her children and their families are her pride and joy, son, Jimmy, also known as Dr. S. James Shafer, Neurologist and his wife Helen and his three step daughters and two step sons. Richard (a medical technologist) wife Joe-Ann and son, daughter and niece, live in the Vero Beach area. Nancy’s daughter, Rebecca Ann Steiner of Medina Ohio with her three daughters are the only ones back in the cold county… but now they can come visit and see everyone in Vero Beach.

Nancy is still exploring the Vero Beach area, but misses the gang up here. Nancy would love to hear from her DCTW friends and “family”, so email her at Allen359@comcast.net Nancy is also on facebook and can be easily located as a member of our DC TimeWatchers group on facebook, so register, become a member and stay in touch with all your DC TimeWatcher friends right on our group page. Nancy has promised to attend our DCTW GET2GETHER on October 16, 2009 at Tom Statham County Park 7101 S. US1 Titusville, Fl. located riverside on US1, 3.4 miles south of the intersection of SR 50 and US 1 just below Titusville. It is almost directly across US 1 from the turn off to old Tico airport (Space Executive airport now) ….So if you want to catch up with Nancy Allen, plan on attending our GET2GETHER on Friday, October 16, 2009 starting at 11:30am.

The Working Spotlight - Sergeant Lori Girard

August 1, 2009

OUR DC TIMEWATCHERS STILL WORKING

This article is about one of the most popular staff members to have worked at BCI over the years. She is also one of the few that worked their twenty-five year plus career entirely at BCI. Lori Girard has been a vital player at BCI over the years and has always been there for all of us and always been a friend.

She began her career in Classification at the ripe old age of 21 as a clerk typist on 1/19/81 for then classification supervisor, John Bibby. In August of 1981, Lori was promoted to Secretary in Classification.

In August of 1982, Lori transferred to Security. Her first day on shift, she was assigned to the control room at the Main Unit (There were no other units back then) and was given her one shift training from Sergeant Bill Boyett and she was on her own. At this time Robert Fischer was Major and Danny Wilkins was the Administrative Lieutenant.

After one and a half years or so there, Lori went to the Mail Room. In 1984 while assigned to the Mail Room, Lori worked on June 30 and later that evening was admitted to the hospital where her son, Stacy was born on July 1^st. That weekend, there was quite a disturbance on the compound due to the 4^th of July Holiday and she missed it. Lori was in the Mail Room until September 1989, when she was promoted to Administrative Sergeant at the New Work Camp that was to be built. Superintendent Ray McCleese promoted her. (She was the first female Sergeant Ray had promoted as Superintendent). Lori was also the first official employee to be assigned to the Work Camp. During this time, Lori worked with Carl Mullinex to assist in ensuring all building materials and equipment was received and properly assigned to the new facility. Brevard Work Camp opened in June of 1990 with Major Robert Baldonado as Chief.

After about a year she went to 3^rd shift for almost a year then to 2^nd shift for about a year and then returned as the Administrative Sergeant for several months, then was moved to urinalysis testing for approximately 3 years. Lori then was assigned to Institutional Inspector Don Bowling for a year. Lori then returned to the Work Camp as the Administrative Sergeant for the following 3 years. In 2007 Lori returned to shift duties as the 2^nd shift Control Room Supervisor where she currently works.

During Lori’s career she has been a supporter and leader with the Employee Club (now EBTF) and FCCD holding officer positions from President, VP, Secretary and Treasurer in each. Lori has been recipient of the Employee of the Month at both units over her career.

Lori enjoys riding motorcycles with Dan, her husband of 17 plus years. She is an excellent baker and is always making some kind of goodies and bringing them to work to share with her coworkers. She can always be found at the DC TIMEWATCHERS events and is usually volunteering at them to help make them a success. She plans on doing four more years before she joins the ranks of the retired. If you want to drop Lori an email to say hello, you can at Girard.Lori@mail.dc.state.fl.us.

SEPTEMBER BREAKFAST WITH 19 FRIENDS

September 5, 2009

Breakfast on Saturday September 5, 2009 at Whistle Junction found 19 DC TimeWatchers in attendance. They included, Lorraine and Paul Thomas, Steve and Carolyn Pelehach, John Cummings, Rich and Carol Ward, Allen Spence, Tom and Sandy Fernstrom, Jackie and John Shearer, Dick and Lona Rogers, E.J. Smith, Keith Kiser, Larry Reed, Richard Lopresto and Larry Cruce.

We were pleased to have Lorraine and Paul Thomas. Paul, who is still working and currently off recovering from a heart attack, behaved himself admirably at the buffet. It was great to see him out. Also notable in the group was Tom Fernstrom and his fiance, Sandy, who are getting married on October 17, 2009. Congratulations to the happy couple. It has also been a while since seeing Carolyn and Steve Pelehach at a breakfast and it was nice having them there as well as everyone else who showed up.

Don’t wait, mark Saturday October 3, 2009 on your calendar as the next DCTW Breakfast at 9:00am at the Whistle Junction Restaurant in Titusville and come on out and see who shows up… Also don’t forget to plan on coming to our FALL GET2GETHER on Friday October 16, 2009 at Tom Statham County Park located on the riverside of US1 directly across from the entrance to old Tico Airport… just south of Titusville on US1. It will start at 11:30am, it is going to be a good one.

Look forward to seeing everyone next Month…

Click pictures to enlarge

Spotlight - Sally Muncy

September 1, 2009

Sally Muncy hired on at Brevard as the Secretary to the Superintendent in January 1976. She also was one of our original opening staff. She worked as the Administrative Assistant to, (catch your breath) Mr. Tom Dowling, Interims Sterling Staggers, Curt McKenzie, back to full time wardens, M.K. Sawyer, Jerry Hicks, Ray McCleese, Dave Hemme, Butch Whidden, Don Dean, Interim Bob O’Conner and Ron Holmes.

Sally was the keeper of the gate for Superintendants & Wardens for 27 years at Brevard. Over those years she provided a careful eye on every document and report that came into and out of her bosses view. She assisted on every project that was critical to our continued success in addition to her regular duties. She assisted every investigator, even before there were institutional inspector positions at institutions, maintaining a professional filing system and ensured their reports were pristine and professional before leaving the Warden’s office. She was the resource for folks when computers were first introduced to Institutions. She was always the first person to greet you and to assist you whether you were up front for a good thing or a bad thing and she did so gracefully and with compassion.

There were basic rules to live by, if you were a correctional officer working in the control room and when it came to the boss’s Assistant, the top was #1. Most importantly, Never ever, even on a Saturday, Sunday or holiday, disturb the Superintendent’s Secretary, her desk or office supplies, ever, PERIOD. There was a reason for that, but who really wanted to find out what it was. Sally set the standard at Brevard, she opened the facility in that capacity and held that post for 27 years. She was kind and helpful and always loyal to her post. Sally was a friend and could always be counted on anytime you needed her help.

May 2003 Sally retired from the Department and became a Charter member of our DC TimeWatchers group. Sally lives in Cocoa and is thankful for all her years with the Brevard family. Sally attended our first and many of our functions and has supported our organization since its early days. Sally continues to be a source of strength and a valued member of our extended retiree family.

Wedding Plans Announced for a DC TimeWatcher

September 1, 2009

Tom Fernstrom announced his engagement to his lovely fiancé, Sandy, at our Breakfast on Saturday September 5. Tom and Sandy will be married on October 17, 2009 at a private ceremony and will reside in a new home they purchased in Port St. John. We are so please they are going to remain in the area and look forward to seeing both of them at our Get2Gethers each year.

CONGRATULATIONS to the couple and thanks for sharing the announcement with your friends at our Monthly breakfast.

August Breakfast at Whistle Junction draws 17 folks

August 1, 2009

We had 17 folks at breakfast for our monthly August breakfast gathering! You missed a nice breakfast with old and new friends. The following first timers showed up, Mike Morrison and Paul Crawford! Others included, Uwe Schwersensky and two guests, Mike Waldsmith, Bernie Elvin, George & Ruth Merklinger, Amos Lewis, John Cummings, E.J. Smith, Rich & Carol Ward, Keith Kiser, Larry Cruce & Allen Spence.

We had a great time and good visit. For you guys who have not shown up, plan to join us on Saturday September 5^th, 2009 at 9:00 AM at Whistle Junction and enjoy a breakfast with friends. If you are from away from the area plan a visit to the beach or the space center or hook up with some other folks for a day of shopping or just catching up…Plan ahead and spend the day in the area. It is always a great way to start out a new month!

It was great catching up with everyone and you never know who is going to show up. Our monthly breakfast is nice, so come on and make it even better in September.

Keith

Spotlight - Sherman English

August 2009

Sherman English was born on July 26, 1934 and raised in Sanford Florida. He entered the US AIR FORCE and served 21 years 9 months retiring as a Master Sergeant on February 1, 1976. Sherman’s last assignment was Kaena Point Satellite Tracking Station, Hawaii. He was the only Medical Personnel there.

Sherman retired to Merritt Island, Florida and on February 9, 1976 (count it, just 8 days after retiring) Sherman began his second career with the Florida Department of Corrections at a new Prison located in Sharpes, Florida called Brevard CI. Sherman was among the opening staff of our facility as a Medical Technician. Many today do not know that during the early years, the clinic was staffed with 1 doctor, 1 registered nurse both worked administrative hours and 5 Clinical medical technicians-C, who worked the shifts. I can remember Sherman and the other original CMT-C’S taking care of most needs right there in the clinic, including stitches, lab works and other items that now go directly outside. Sherman and the others were always there for the staff and were always ready to assist in any way possible in any emergency.

Sherman served Medical in several capacities as a CMT-C and including as Health Services Administrator and in 1989, Sherman transferred over to Security and was assigned as a Squad Officer at the Work Camp until he retired in 2000.

Everyone who knows Sherman, is aware he is quite a bowler. Since retiring Sherman works in the pro shop of his favorite bowling alley drilling bowling balls. He also spends a fair amount of time fishing as well. Sherman’s son, Randy now works at the Work Camp and carries on the English name at the old work place.

If you want to catch up with Sherman, plan on attending one of our Get2Gethers as he and Joan are regulars and charter DC TimeWatchers. (If Randy can scrounge the day off, you may even get to see him too.) If you want to contact Sherm, you can do so by emailing him at HennysJ@aol.com or plan to visit with him at one of our gatherings.

Sherman, John Ringer, unknowns 1976

July Breakfast

JULY 4^th BREAKFAST HAS 17 IN ATTENDANCE.

Saturday July 4^th, DC TimeWatchers gathered for our Independence day breakfast at the Whistle Junction restaurant in Titusville, Florida. We had a great gathering with Tom & Maria Komon and Alexandra along with George & Ruth Merklinger, Bernie & Chris Elvin, Jack Phillips, Bill Boyett, Rich Puglio, E.J. Smith, Amos Lewis, John Cummings, Barre and Barre #2 Taylor and Keith Kiser.

Everyone was discussing their plans for the afternoon and assorted conversation on what is keeping them busy these days. It is interesting to hear how different folks are managing their drop funds and which advisors are their picks. The great thing especially for those still working folks to take away is that there is life after retirement.. It is great to share with each other on a monthly basis among friends.

Hope everyone has a great 4^th, even if you didn’t start the day out with a great breakfast like the DC TimeWatchers breakfast club. IT’s never too late to become a part… Just mark the 1^st Saturday of August and plan to be at Whistle Junction at 9am, just look around for your friends, we will be there.

What's New with DC TimeWatchers

Part 2

1. We have also committed to outreach and support new staff at our closest institution by doing a cookout for new recruits in every academy at Brevard Community College. It is our opportunity to encourage new employees and further show them that a full career is viable and worthwhile. It also gives us the personal contact and recognition to those, who will replace us one of these days in this organization. If you are interested in helping or joining us for this or future similar activities, please let me know or email us at dctimewatchers@yahoo.com

2. DC TimeWatchers also supports the Second Grade Class at the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind. We are unofficial Class Grandparents of Mrs. Kaspar’s, Second Grade Deaf Class. We send care packs, school supplies (ie backpacks- supplies for needy students) provide snacks, treats and sometimes a pizza party for the great students of the Second Grade at FSDB. Again, if anyone wishes to assist in providing such things in this endeavor please contact Keith Kiser at keith@dctimewatchers.com

3. We are so pleased to have such a great group and welcome all first time attendees. We do hope you plan to come again and join us for every function. Remember we have a monthly breakfast the first Saturday of each month at the Whistle Junction Restaurant located on SR-405 near Wal-mart in Titusville at 9am. Come and join us, it’s a great way to stay in touch and start every month.

4. If you have had an email or address/phone number change, please email the changes to us at dctimewatchers@yahoo.com

5. I want to thank everyone who has supported this group, but want to recognize those who have volunteered to help with each function we have.

6. If you have an idea or want to help fuel and support our Organization, or want to volunteer for any activity, don’t hesitate to contact us at dctimewatchers@yahoo.com or contact Keith at 321-794-8044. If you don’t want to use the computer for donations, you may mail them the old fashioned way, making out checks payable to the DC TimeWatchers, Inc. and mailing them to me at my address. (Please contact me for the address).

Spotlight - Marilyn Acierno

July 2009

Our Spotlight this month is on our friend and fellow DC TimeWatcher, Marilyn Acierno.

Marilyn grew up in Oklahoma, Texas, Alabama and New York….. In February 1978 Marilyn began her career with the Department of Corrections as a clerk-typist in Classification, briefly working for the Parole & Probation department with Phil Catalfano from March 1979 through early summer. In June 1979, Marilyn was the Secretary for John Bibby, Classification Supervisor.

In September of 1980, Marilyn’s husband, Lou, was seriously injured and Marilyn transferred to security department. She worked posts in the control room, mail room & mostly on special assignment ensuring the work of DR investigators, major incidents and anything that needed to be neat, correct and understandable, was transcribed correctly, and professionally presented, was done the way it needed to be done prior to submission.

Marilyn worked circles around those of us who inundated her with huge volumes of investigations, reports, program changes, ACA documentation and every kind of document, report that can be imagined and made it look easy.

In November 1985 Marilyn took a voluntary demotion to accept a data entry position in Classification and again in May 1986 was secretary to John Bibby, Classification Supervisor.

In May of 1987, Marilyn was moved to Medical Records and in 1988 she was promoted to Secretary Specialist to the Assistant Superintendent of Operations, Ray McCleese, where she remained in position as secretary to Mr. McCleese and to Mr. Danny Wilkins who succeeded Ray as AWO.

Marilyn retired from that position in February 1998 and was missed terribly by everyone who relied on her so much on her excellent abilities as Marilyn always lent a hand to those of us she worked with even though her current position was not required to do so, she always helped out. Marilyn was a loyal friend, outstanding Officer and employee and was always there to help when needed.

Since retiring, Marilyn has again taken up golf and is on a league at Cocoa Beach and plays twice a week. Lou and Marilyn have 6 grandchildren ranging in age from 10 to 29. They travel more now, especially since Lou invested in a GPS and now can find his way around. (Lou, she made me put that in there!)

Marilyn is also a CHARTER DC TIMEWATCHERS member and can be found on frequent occasions at our functions, especially our annual luncheon. So if you want to catch up with Marilyn make sure to mark our Get2Gethers on your calendar and plan to join us there.

If you want to contact Marilyn, her email is, marilynacierno@yahoo.com I know that she would love to hear from you.

June Breakfast

JUNE BREAKFAST A RECORD BREAKER!!!

WE HAD 25 IN ATTENDANCE, INCLUDING TIMEWATCHERS FROM IRAQ, NEW ZEALAND AND KANSAS!

Hey everyone, our June 6, 2009 Breakfast was INCREDIBLE. We had 25 in attendance and here is our list: Steve & Kathy Senter, Richard & Carol Ward, George & Ruth Merklinger, Jackie & John Shearer, Allen Spence, Keith Kiser, Larry Cruce, David Amstadt, Uwe Schwersenski & his daughter and 2 friends, Larry Reed, Rich Lopresto, E.J. Smith, Bob Cope & Jerico (his son), Bill & Carole Rickenbrode (Carole has just retired in Kansas-Welcome to the group), Bernie & Chris Elvin.

It was a great time of sharing and hanging out. Steve Senter is in from his job in Iraq till the end of the month, Bob Cope is on one of his international jaunts from his new home in New Zealand and Bill and Carole Rickenbrode surprised us from Kansas. The rest of us both hailed from South Brevard, North Brevard, Lake and Volusia counties. It was really a nice gathering. Everyone enjoyed themselves, no one left hungry and both Keith and Larry forgot their cameras. Don’t fret, Bob Cope and Carole Rickenbrode saved the day and will be forwarding Photographs of this Historic record breaking Breakfast very soon. So if you are reading this now and the pictures are not attached, you have to come back and check out the photographs in a couple of days. Make sure you don’t miss the next historic event and plan to join us for our DC TimeWatchers monthly breakfast. You can find the date by checking out the upper right hand corner of our website for the next one. See you there.

Notes From:

W. Scott Whitacre

February 2009

Remember Dr. Scott Whitacre? Scott is one of our own and one of my best friends. In 31+ years of real life prison work on the line, I have never known a better Correctional Psychologist.

I have asked Scott to delve off the beaten path of his usual forte and to share with us, strategies and things that may help us be more fruitful and happy as retirees. I reminded Scott that he will be joining us one day and he may as well offer some thought and insight to our “complicated lives” after we retire. Scott will be sharing a reoccurring article with us as he finds time to do so. He has agreed to update us in each article on how things are going for him, because we care, because he cares….

If you appreciate the articles, let us know by emailing us and letting us know at dctimewatchers@yahoo.com.

"The Hands of Time"

I love the movies. My wife and I make a concerted push to view as many films as we can, especially those with Oscar nominations on the table. And so, as Keith has asked me to share some humble thoughts on the challenges of retirement with all of you, I can’t help but find myself preoccupied with a film that Jill and I saw recently. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, starring Brad Pitt and based on a short story by F. Scott Fitzgerald, pulled in 13 Oscar nominations. As the big ceremony looms on February 23, I offer some reflections to you.

First of all, it is rather interesting to be writing thoughts regarding retirement to all of you. As you may or may not know, I am the psychologist at Brevard CI (still working!) and have had the pleasure of working with many of you for years. I’m still here, 15 years this month and at least 10 years away from my own retirement. What could I possibly say to you that are relevant, considering the fact that retirement still seems a far away goal to me? Perhaps the film can help.

Without giving too much away, suffice to say that the film is about a man who is born old and ages backward as his life progresses... As he is growing up, he meets a girl much younger than he, loses track of her, but finds her again many years later when they have “met in the middle.” He is younger than when they first met, she is older than when they first met, and they are about the same age. The film is peppered with intriguing visual metaphors: clocks whose hands move backward, nursing homes filled with the elderly and the youthful, light and dark (the cinematography is incredible, evocative and inspiring), and sight gags about the confusion of memories. Brad Pitt is terrific in the lead role, and plays it understated and bewildered by his existence.

What is the relevance of all this for retirement? One of the messages from the film that is used in trailers and ads is that “life can only be understood when lived backward.” My translation of this insight is that certain points in life can only be appreciated from the perspective of being older; Pitt’s character has many experiences that only take on significance for him because he has been “older” and sees them from the perspective which a richer, deeper life affords. I suspect this is somewhat true of retirement, though once again I plead humility because I am not there yet.

The psychological principle is simple. We need to appreciate what we have, and the process in which we are currently engaged. I often say it this way: it is not that the magical train is coming, but that we are on the magical train. Life is all about riding the train.

I hope that my tone here has not suggested that retirement is mostly about struggle. I know that many of you are having a hell of lot more fun than I am and are enjoying the fruits of your careers. In speaking to new retirees, they sometimes share a feeling of displacement mainly due to their established routines ending. This soon fades as new routines are established and can easily be seen as that retiree smile gets broader and broader.

In closing, I’m sure that no matter what side of retirement we are on, life continues to provide challenges and opportunities. I guess that Curious Case might suggest that we must strive to recognize the wonder of our life. We need to relish the opportunities, meet and deal with adversity and most of all, celebrate what we have. We need to understand that the phase of life that we occupy is a gift, something which only takes on meaning if we look at all we have done to get here.

Go see the movie. You’ll like it.

W.Scott Whitacre

WHAT A GREAT 2009 SPRING GET2GETHER - APRIL 3!!!!

We all gathered together on April 3, at Dixie Crossroads in Titusville for our SPRING GET2GETHER. We had 71 DC TimeWatchers in attendance including our youngest member, Ava Lord, who came with Mommy & Daddy. As always, Dixie Crossroads afforded us their big banquet room and excellent service and hospitality. No one left hungry! We really appreciated Mike Gooch’s heads up and $3.00 coupon that everyone in attendance received.

It was great seeing everyone who attended. Folks we had not seen in a while included Bill and Barbara Hanawalt, Curtis Davis, Dan Wilkins, Duane Smith, Larry Reed, Richard Lopresto, Lew Shelpman & Rick Stanley. But there were 62 other ones there too, including first timers, Mr. Mayo-AWO Brevard, Tom Burke, Gabriela Cruce, Chris Elvin, Carmen Powers, Jeff Reed, David Oliver & Tony Bouchard. Make sure you check out the photos and see who else attended.

The DC TimeWatchers wants to thank the loyalty of the following folks, who took time out of their schedules to volunteer to help make our GET2GETHER a success this time: Linda Patricks, Kathy Senter, Charlie Lord, Lori Girard, Mike Gooch, Larry Cruce, Bernie Elvin and Richard Puglio for helping make our events more enjoyable. Thanks to everyone who supports us. Special thanks to Jorge Hoffman, Financial Advisor from Edward Jones who joined us and provided a box of RETIREE DOOR PRIZES for our event to supplement the 5 twenty dollar bills that we also gave away. Jorge is always invited, however, provides the extra door prizes without being asked. Jorge has provided financial guidance to numerous members of our group and is always welcome to our events. We also had a drawing for a $100.00 50/50, won by Duane Smith. Congratulations Duane.

During our door prize break, Danny Wilkins presented Larry Cruce with his retirement plaque. Yes, Larry retired almost 2 years ago and the plaque finally caught up with him at our GET2GETHER. It was nice and well deserved, we appreciate the members of Brevard’s management team who attended and made the presentation possible.

Let me remind you to check out our Photos of our Get2Gether SPRING 2009. Also, thanks to those who brought old pictures out to add to our album. They should be popping up very soon, as well.

Well keep Fridays open in October, as that will be when we do our FALL GET2GETHER and we will get those details to you as they are made and confirmed.

Don’t forget our first Saturday of each month Breakfast at Whistle Junction restaurant in Titusville at 9 am.

See you there

DCTimeWatchers Cooks for BCC Academy Class

April 14, 2009

On Tuesday April 14, 2009, volunteers from the DC TimeWatchers’ organization cooked lunch for the Corrections Academy Class of Brevard Community College. DCTW members Richard Puglio, Larry Cruce and Keith Kiser prepared Burgers and Dogs for the Class along with guests, Melissa Walker (Corrections Coordinator for BCC), Frank Ramos (Range Director BCC & DC TimeWatcher) and Instructors, Bob Ostovich (Also a DC TimeWatcher) & John Courtney (Still Working member of DCTW). The class brought in some delicious side dishes and desserts and we all had a great time on the last day of the range.

The team had to dodge a few lightning bolts and endure a good soaking rain, but it all came out well. The DC TimeWatchers, committed to host a lunch to each Correctional Class held at Brevard Community College and this was our second event and we look forward to many, many more as we grow. We hope to reach out to new DC Staff who are just starting their careers. The Retiree group enjoys interacting with those new folks and seeing old friends who come out and joins us. Thanks to George Harrison, Jr. and members of the Leadership group from Brevard who stopped in to check it out. It is appreciated.

Click to View Pictures

Spotlight - George Murphy

May 1, 2009

Our SPOTLIGHT this month is on our friend and fellow DC TimeWatcher George Murphy. George was born and raised in Lowell Mass. George was the eldest with a brother and sister.

George’s father was the Secretary of Mass Tax Service and his mom was a fulltime home-maker. George joined the US Air Force in Boston in 1952 and served just over 21 years retiring as a Senior Sergeant from McGuire AFB in New Jersey. A year later in 1975, George launched

his Department of Corrections career initially at the Cocoa Community Correctional Center and shortly thereafter transferred to Lake Correctional Institution.

In 1976, a new facility, Brevard CI, opened and George returned to Brevard County making Sergeant. George remained at Brevard throughout his career, retiring as a Captain in 2000 with 25 years 3 months of service.

Since retiring, George and his wife Carolyn moved to Willacoochee, Georgia where they are tree farmers (Pine trees) and love to travel in their motor home. George and Carolyn are charter members of the DC TimeWatchers group and make as many of our functions as possible. It is always great seeing them when they are in.

If you want to catch up with Murph, you need to mark down and attend our Get2gethers and also join us on our facebook group, DC TimeWatchers. George and Carolyn always enjoys hearing from their DC TimeWatchers friends, so drop them an email at Murph300@yahoo.com and see what they are up to.

Congratulations

Brevard CI Officer F. Hale

April 21, 2009

Brevard Correctional Facility
Attn: Warden Bateman
855 Camp Rd.
Cocoa, FL 32927

Dear Warden Bateman,

I wanted to take the opportunity to thank the Correctional Facility for all your efforts in providing us with a very professional Corrections Officer, F. Hale, and the productive crew under his direction.

Recently the City of Cape Canaveral had to rebuild one of its beach crossovers. We utilized the inmate crew under the direction of Officer Hale. They worked vigilantly to complete this project while still performing the normal daily duties assigned to them. This was a great team effort of City staff working with the inmates to complete the project in a timely manner. We received many thanks from the local neighborhood citizens as well as praise from City management.

Sincerely,

Kay McKee
City of Cape Canaveral
Public Works Supervisor

DC TimeWatcher recognized for Service to Crosswinds

Dave Hemme Honored with First Crosswinds Lifetime Achievement Award

February 2009

Dave Hemme started his career as a teacher with the Florida Department of Corrections in 1968, and served as Superintendent of three different major correctional institutions, including Brevard, before retiring.

Elected to the Crosswinds Board of Directors in 1995, Mr. Hemme served as Treasurer, Secretary, and President before retiring from the Board in 2008. He was instrumental in finding the property for Crosswinds’ current campus on Dixon Boulevard in Cocoa and in obtaining government and private funding for construction of the Robert E. Lehton Children’s Shelter.

The Board of Directors chose to honor Mr. Hemme, not only for his passion, wisdom and dedication inservice to Crosswinds, but for his lifetime of service. His outstanding community activities, along with his tireless efforts to prevent juvenile delinquency and reach out to youth in need, have earned him the first ever Crosswinds Lifetime Achievement Award. He has truly made a tremendous impact on the lives of the children, youth and families of Brevard County.

Spotlight - Danny Wilkins

April 1, 2009

Danny Wilkins grew up in Long Island New York and joined the Air Force just out of high school in 1970. When Dan separated from the military he joined his parents, who had moved to Florida and in 1974, he began his career with the Florida Department of Corrections as a CO-I at Sumter Correctional Institution. In 1976, he and fellow officer Buster Bullock, both from SCI, made Sergeant at a brand new facility located just north of Cocoa, Florida. That was Brevard Correctional Institution. In 1980 Dan was promoted to Lieutenant and served as Administrative Lieutenant for Majors Duane Rutledge and Robert Fischer. In 1983, at the age of 30, Danny was promoted to Major at Brevard CI. Danny was one of the youngest Chief Correctional Officers in the state at that time. In 1989, Danny was promoted to Assistant Superintendent, which title was later changed to Assistant Warden. In 1999, Danny was transferred to Central Florida Reception Center and in 2002, again promoted to Warden at Sumter Correctional Institution. Danny shared that it was strange to return to his first institution where he began his career as Warden. In 2003, Danny was moved to Warden at Brevard where he remained until he retired with 32.5 years of service.

Danny shared that he has never regretted his career with the Department. He has met so many wonderful people throughout his career. The years that he spent at Brevard CI were very special to him because in part, he was lucky to have been part of the opening team. Danny shared, “Folks that work in Corrections are very special breed and it takes a special breed to do what the staff are tasked with everyday.”

Since Retiring, Dan has been traveling a lot, fishing and golfing when he can and there isn’t a day that goes by that he doesn’t thank God for leading him to Corrections and a career that allowed him to retire so young.

Danny was more than a coworker and supervisor for everyone he worked with. He was part of the “family” who was there from the first day Brevard opened.

Danny also is a Charter supporter and member of the DC TimeWatchers and can be found on frequent occasion at our functions and activities. If you want to catch up with Dan, I recommend that you plan on joining us at a future activity, which are posted on our website, www.dctimewatchers.com also don’t forget to join and register on facebook.com and join our group, DC TimeWatchers! It is becoming a great place to network and stay in touch!

Spotlight - Chaplain Bill Hanawalt


Did you know......

May 17, 2008

Many of you don’t know, but the DC TimeWatchers also are classroom “grandparents” to the elementary program (2^nd grade) at the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind. Our little friends of the 2^nd grade named the last litter of Bloodhounds born at Brevard CI last year and we hope to soon have the photos of the class working on that project in our photo albums section. Although, the parents and school administrators provide well for all classes, sometimes a little tlc care package(s) arrive to sweeten up a seasonal party or provide reward gifts for their “store”. Whatever the need, we are a part of their class activities as needed. If you want to be more involved in support of this activity, please email us at dctimewatchers@yahoo.com and let us know. We will include you in any needs that we are working on for the class in the future. If you want to check out current events in the 2^nd grade classroom, visit the website at : http://teachers.fsdb.k12.fl.us/%7Ekasparj/

June Breakfast

June 7, 2008

We had nineteen (19) in attendance, including John & Jackie Shearer, Ruth & George Merklinger from Lake County, John Cummings, George Murphy from Ga., Maria & Tom Komon & Alex, Uwe Schwersensky, Bernie Elvin, Bob Cope from New Zealand, Richard Puglio, Larry Cruce, Keith & Kathie Kiser, Jack & Dottie Phillips. What a nice time we had. Bob Cope will be stateside taking care of some personal business and visiting family through this month and then head back to New Zealand where he currently lives.

I believe I have talked Bob into contributing to our newsletter with information about living "down under" and the adventures it offers, just in case anyone wants to take a plunge at adventure, New Zealand style.

Spotlight - Ted Johnson

June 1, 2008

Ted Johnson hired on with the Department of Corrections in 1972 as an Instructor in the print shop at Raiford, Florida where he worked at UCI’s printing plant, supervising inmate workers. Ted lived in Melbourne where his wife, Elizabeth worked with Southern Bell. Ted stayed in the BOQ at UCI and returned home on weekends. In 1974 Cocoa Work Release opened and Ted was promoted to Correctional Counselor at Cocoa, allowing him to return to his home county to work. In 1976 Brevard CI opened and Ted was promoted to Sergeant at Brevard where he worked all shifts and spent many years on First Shift including acting OIC before his retirement in 1985. Just after retiring, Ted had quadruple bypass heart surgery and in 1986 returned to BCI and worked in the Mail Room until he again retired in 1992.

Ted remained an active volunteer during his working years with the Boy Scouts of America. He was recipient of two Adult Leadership awards known as the “Silver Beaver” which is the highest honor that can bestowed upon an adult leader involved in the scouting program.

Ted and Elizabeth spent the next five years traveling across the Continental United States in an RV, visiting each of the contiguous 48 states. Ted and Elizabeth are still involved in volunteer service through the Emmanuel Methodist Church in Melbourne, where they work with the “Angel Food Ministry”

Ted has recently has had several surgeries, but is on the road to recovery. He and Elizabeth are active in attending our GET2GETHERS and are looking forward to seeing you at our next one!

Spotlight - Richard J. Puglio

May 1, 2008

This spotlight is on Richard J. Puglio, who served Brevard CI from 1978 till his retirement in 2000, serving the Department of Corrections for 22 years. Richard retired as a Lieutenant assigned to the Work Camp, but spending about as much time as OIC at the Main Unit. Richard is also a proud retired member of the UNITED STATES ARMY retiring as a citizen soldier after his last combat assignment during the first Persian Gulf War. Richard retired as a Staff Sergeant in the reserve in 1993 after returning from the middle-east.

Since Rich’s DC retirement he volunteers with the Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 49, currently serving as a Staff Officer. He enjoys his work with the Coast Guard and is anxious to resume regular duties with them.

Richard is successfully recovering from major cancer surgery on 3/21/08 and hopefully will be able to return to duty status with the CG very soon. Rich attended our Spring Get2Gether on April 4, 2008 just out of Moffitt about a week. This past week he received a great report from his surgeon’s from Moffitt Cancer Hospital in Tampa and is ready to get back to full speed.

Rich is a charter member of the TIMEWATCHERS, having been a working part of every function. He is always behind the scenes, especially at our annual picnic helping with the shopping and set up of the pavilion. Rich has always been there when he is needed, regardless of the task and difficulty you can count on him to be ready and present to make a difference.

Rich is not hard to find, his number is in the phone book and he can be located at every DC TIMEWATCHER’S GET2GETHER.

Retirement? It Just Seems Like I Started There Yesterday!

May 1, 2008

My, thirty years flies by when you’re having as much fun as I have had over the years at Brevard. Here I am ready or not, retiring in less than 30 days. I am reeling with all the incidentals of wrapping up my career and feel conflicted and excited at the same time.

Thanks to my fellow TimeWatchers my anxiety has been much reduced. You have made the issues much easier. I think that we will have to tap into all your experiences as TimeWatchers and invite our new members as they reach this point in their careers an opportunity to reach out and ask you to share your experiences. If you are approaching retirement and would like to ask any questions of others who have already been through the process, don’t hesitate to email us with your questions.

I also appreciate the kind folks in Personnel in Region 3 Office for all their expertise and direction in making this as easy as falling off a log. We hope to see many of you soon at our TimeWatcher gatherings.

To all my still working friends, thank you for all the words of encouragement, “Find something you love to do.” “Set a routine and do it daily.” “Do what you want to do.” “Get another job” (Oh, that was my wife’s).

I look forward to my new endeavor

Keith Kiser

Spring Get2Gether

April 4, 2008

We had 67 attendees at our Spring Get2Gether and everyone had a great time. First timers include Danny Clayton, Fletch & Cindy Morgan, Val Lourdes, Erica (Thomas) Hahn, Linda Patricks, Napoleon Dubois, Terry & Alfreda Lollie, Tommy Knight & George Harrison, Jr.

Our major travelers included Joni Brooks from upper state New York and George and Carolyn Murphy from South Georgia. Our longest traveler, Bob Cope could not make it due to the death of his mother in Alabama, he sends his best to all as we keep him and his family in our thoughts and prayers during this time. Bob hails from New Zealand….

It was great to see everyone. Dixie Crossroads was very hospitable and provided us their large Manatee dining room and provided a $20.00 gift certificate for our retiree door prize drawing. As always we gave away five-$20.00 door prizes, a $20.00 gift certificate for Dixie, tickets for 2 for a dinner & show. The big winner of the $105.00 50/50 drawing was retiree John Shearer.

For those who missed it, the Get2Gether luncheon was the largest gathering we have had, so plan now to help us beat the grand total by a bunch. Put OCTOBER 10, 2008 down as the date of our FALL GET2GETHER at Tom Statham Park located on US 1 just South of Titusville. That’s right I have reserved the big pavilion for 10/10/08 and our annual picnic is set.

As a reminder we meet every month for breakfast and May 3, 2008 we will have breakfast at IHOP located at I95 & SR50 at 9 a.m. We periodically change location, but will post all locations on the website every month to make sure you get to the right place.

Spotlight - Butch Whidden

March 2008

Butch, a former warden at BCI, is now an agent with Capital Insurance Agency, Inc. covering Brevard County and is a supporter of our TimeWatcher Group as well as a member. Butch and Capital sponsored our October 2007 GET2GETHER which was really appreciated. Butch is also an ACA auditor and travels all over the country participating in audits at facilities everywhere. Butch is very knowledgeable of the retirement process both as a consultant in his current profession, but as well as a DC retiree with many years in the management arena. Butch and his wife Linda retired in the Edgewood Community in South Orlando. If you want to talk to Butch or have any insurance or investment questions, he can be reached at his office at 1-800-416-1618.

Sharing:

Check out www.geocaching.com

It is a new activity that I am hearing more and more about. My son in law does it and I have to admit. It is kind of cool..

Using a gps device you search for hidden caches of items all over the world. document your finds and leave your name and info in the cache for evidence that you found it. It is amazing how many folks especially those retirees are out there "shaking down" for the finds...

I have been out a couple of times and it is a good way to get outside and enjoy the out of doors.

I think it may be of interest to those who are dabbling with new technologies or gps devices...

Keith

View My Guestbook
Sign My Guestbook
Email: DCTimeWatchers

If you are experiencing problems with the DC TimeWathcers website,

or have a comment or question about the site, please contact the Web Manager.