About FSRA-FL

Steps toward the current FSRA-FL began casually when Richard Boyce arranged a meeting of about 15 retirees in Fort Lauderdale in 1962. Then, Clarence Brooks, William DeCourcey, and Gerald Smith were responsible for more than 20 gatherings before Kyle Mitchell took over for several years and was succeeded by Theo Hall, then DonMcCue.

Edward Dobyns formalized the Association in 1982. He prepared a Constitution and Bylaws, served as the first FSRA chair, formed the first Board, and prepared the first Directory. He instituted regular luncheons throughout the state and annual dinner meetings. FSRA-FL, as it is now known, was off and running. Richard Hart succeeded Ed in 1986 and led FSRA-FL until 1991, a period in which membership increased substantially and five functions a year became routine. Paul Byrnes replaced Dick in 1992 and served for 5 years. Membership and attendance reached an all-time high as hired buses often brought members to east coast cities.

Eddie Deerfield became Acting Chair in 1997 and was elected to a full term for 1998-1999. He focused on increased membership and financial resources and strove to expand program events. His successor was Irwin Rubenstein who served 2000-01.Irwin established a formal Speakers Bureau  and also supported Elderhostel participation. He led a revision of the Constitution and edited and published a popular book of member experiences during their service years. After seven years at the helm, Paul Byrnes followed Irwin for 2006- 2007.

Ambassador Kenneth Hill took the chair for 2008-2009. He organized events in remote areas of Florida with a view to membership expansion. He was replaced by Michael Oreste for the years 2010-2011. Michael established the Association's first website and secured Board approval for inviting Returned Peace Corps Volunteers to become members of FSRA-FL. Dennis Reece assumed the chair for 2012-2013 and made heavy use of the internet to attract new members. He improved luncheon attendance using local host participation and increased press announcements.
Hope Brynes took the chair for 2014-2015. She succeeded in getting local media coverage of FSRA-FL events and encouraged more members to participate as "back-up" assistants to Board Officers and Directors. Chair for 2016-2018, Warrenton "Pete" Brown was succeeded in 2018 by Michael Boorstein. Michael oversaw further membership expansion and updating of the Constitution. He was succeeded in 2021 by Ellen Engels. Ellen was succeeded by Frank Young, our current Board Chair.