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The Cape Canaveral Pen Women branch is located in Brevard County, Florida, home of the nation’s space program. A membership of professional artists, writers and composers, this organization is one of 21 affiliated branches in Florida.

Our by-laws were signed on April 9, 1969 by the branch’s first executive board led by president Elaine Murray Stone. The most important reason for joining is the personal encouragement, contacts and educational benefits gained from association with professional peers.Members promote development of the creative talents of professional women in one or more of three comprehensive membership classifications: Letters, Art, and Music.

About the Speaker

A native Floridian, Bruce Armistead Smathers was elected to Florida State Senate and then was Secretary of State of Florida from 1972 - 1978.

Among other accomplishments, he became involved in the shipwrecked “Atocha” treasure dispute and led the effort to preserve Florida’s Historic State Capitol building in Tallahassee.

After graduating cum laude in economics from Yale University, he completed Naval ROTC and is a decorated Vietnam veteran, serving in Underwater Demolition Team 11 with Naval Special Warfare/Pacific (UDT is now part of Navy SEALs).

Bruce also holds a law degree from his father’s alma mater, University of Florida. Designated a “Great Floridian,” his dad, U.S. Senator George A. Smathers, gifted the University with the library system that is named for him.

Secretary Bruce Smathers and his wife Susan, whose family lives in Titusville, have one son, Bruce Jr.

Attendees enjoyed a special musical presentation by the IRCC Zebra Band, directed by former U.S. Army Band conductor, Col. Hal Gibson with guest pianist Marie Gibson and featured singer, Monica Parks.

The October fundraiser luncheon featuring speaker

The Honorable Bruce Smathers was a great success. Thank you to all who helped organize and contributed to the door prizes and silent auction baskets. All funds raised go to the Cape Canaveral Pen Women college scholarship.

If you couldn’t come but want to contribute to our scholarship fund, please click here to use our easy PayPal “Donate” button. And thank you in advance for your generosity!