From Kathy Broyard, Statewide Disaster Coordinator for FLAPDAN - Summer 2012
Tropical Storm Debby
Tropical Storm Debby brought much needed rain to Florida, 
but
the unjust consequences are overwhelming. Eight people lost their
lives. 304 people were rescued. 32 counties have received a federal
disaster declaration. The American Red Cross sheltered 1186 people. The
Salvation Army and Red Cross provided over 130,480 meals and snacks. As
of a July 10th report, 73 homes were destroyed, 303 had major damage,
608 had minor damage, 1255 were affected and 2162 homes were still
inaccessible and could not be evaluated. Disaster Recovery Centers were
opened in 14 counties to assist these clients with temporary housing
assistance, filing claims, answering questions and providing crisis
counseling.
The secretaries,
administrative assistants, receptionists, bookkeepers and business
administrators are the unsung heroes of the Presbyterian Church (USA). They keep the church and church-related offices of the denomination running.
Their jobs are far more complicated than we give them credit for. With
rapidly changing technology, changes within the denomination and the
Book of Order, Presbyterian office workers are in need of a network of
support and continuing education.
The Administrative Personnel Association of the Presbyterian Church
(USA) is an organization that knits together the denomination’s office
workers. Through regional and national conferences, they gain the
knowledge needed to keep church offices running.
Membership dues are just $75 and the cost to attend a conference is
approximately $500. The National Conference is in San Antonio from
September 12th through September 16th. Aren’t the unsung heroes in your
office worth that small expense?
For more information about joining the APA, visit the Florida Region website (www.floridaapa.org) or contact Allyson Criminger, President, at 904-733-8277.
Nancy Fine
President-Elect and Membership Chair, Florida Region of the APA
