The Executive Board

top row (l to r) Jim Heaberg, Larry Becker, Rod Pirtle, Pete Snider, Frank Frazier
bottom row (l to r) Bill Williams, Ned Startzel, Glenna Stone-Morgan, Herb Kamm

 

It is said that when the conscientiousness of several hold the same thought, a manifestation takes place, making the thought a reality. So it was with Ned Startzel and the members of the Follies Executive Board.

 

During his college days in Pennsylvania, Ned was active in theatrical productions, musical composition and performing. Ned had, and continues to have, a love for the performing arts. Although a more traditional path was chosen as a career, he remained active in the arts community. Upon retirement, the lure of his hidden desire once again surfaced; but now, he was in a position to actively pursue his dream. With destiny’s approval, people began appearing in Ned’s life who also had a dream.

Herb Kamm, a retired US Air Force Colonel, had long been a member of the Rotary organization’s choir and had performed many times with his colleague, Ned. During a casual conversation, both discussed the lack of opportunities and venues for performing and doing what they loved.

Listening to the discussion was Pete Snider, former Governor of Rotary District 5810, another member of the choir. Although his time was divided between his successful business and choir activities, he sympathized with their yearnings and urged them to do something about it. Now there were three, soon to be five with the addition of Frank Frazier and Bill Williams.

Frank Frazier considered Ned a mentor and an invaluable advisor as he was forming his now thriving business. Even though Frank was not an entertainer, he agreed there should be a venue to display the talents of mature performers as talented as those in the professional industry, but who chose another career path. With Frank’s backing, the conversations became serious and action was the next step.

Bill William

 

In 2009 Glenna Stone-Morgan volunteered to be our Treasurer. She has been a practicing CPA for over 30 years and works with several non-profit organizations. She has been a member of the Dallas Tap Dazzlers for over 12 years and is committed to proving that dancing, especially for senior women, will not only keep your body healthy, it will keep you mentally sharp. She had so much fun being a Piano Leg Girl last year that we couldn’t keep her away.

Jim Heaberg

Rod Pirtle

Larry Becker

The circle was now complete, each with a common cause and desire to make dreams come true for all the creative and talented “seniors” among us who placed their talent on a shelf for career and family.

The Follies Executive Board members share the knowledge, like millions of others, that now is indeed a wonderful time of life and the best is yet to come.