Retired Public Employees Council of WA Working to protect and enhance the pension and health care benefits of Washington retired state, county and local government employees
by Alma-Jean Marion, Chapter 28
The 15th Year Anniversary Celebration to benefit WA State Alliance for Retired Americans Educational Fund & 2016 ‘ Senior Champion’ Awards Banquet held last Saturday in the IBEW 77 Hall was not only a first but also the beginning of what is to be an annual event.
Region 9 Representative Claude Burfect was introduced by WSARA President Jackie Boschok to make the presentation of the first Senior Champion Award to Congressman Adam Smith, 9th Congressional District. A special Lifetime Achievement Award was presented by IAM District 160 Ron Harrell to retiring Congressman Jim McDermott, 7th Congressional District. The importance of honoring those who work so diligently to protect Social Security, Medicare, and senior-earned benefits was emphasized.
The Keynote Speaker was Rosalinda Guillen, Executive Director of Community to Community Development (C2C), a widely recognized farm worker and rural justice leader.
