Ron was a Vice President, Northeast Airlines; Computer Technician at major corporations; built computers; and President/CEO, RC Systems, Inc. until he retired. He joined the Flushing Camera Club (FCC) during the photography transfer from film to digital. With his extensive computer background and newly gained digital editing skills, he conducted numerous sessions to strengthen the members and served in several capacities.
In Ron’s words: “I visited the FCC and met a member who was a great flower photographer: he took me on trips to educate me to the art of flower photography. I listened to the judges’ comments and implemented them. After delving into digital editing, FCC enabled me to share and hone my skills by implementing this technology and conducting programs. As I became a member of the FCC leadership: Program chair, Vice President and President, my photographic life has been enriched.” Ron’s FCC activities encouraged him to move into leadership roles at the Photographic Federation of Long Island (PFLI), including as Chair of the Nominating and Honors Committees. Additionally he Chaired the Education Committee that handled the agreement between the PFLI and the Plainview- Old Bethpage Library for the Library’s monthly photography programs. The Library provided the meeting space, paid $100.00 for speakers and advertised the lectures; Ron used the PFLI resources to develop the monthly programs. Ron’s Committee also assisted with the publication and distribution of Dick Hunt’s book “The Keys to Great Photographs” in 2009. The Education Committee scheduled a program at the Library for Dick to present his book: we had our greatest attendance of 175! While assisting at PFLI, Ron led some evening computer sessions at Hillside Public Library in New Hyde Park.
In the SEQCC Ron worked tirelessly as our computer ”pro” as he designed everything related to the Club’s computer technology, including our Website. He conducted numerous lectures to insure the members had the computer skills and programs to strengthen their photography..as he moved the Club into the digital arena. His endless efforts strengthened the SEQCC’s participation in the PFLI competitions. In 2005 Ron suggested the slogan for our Newsletter “Keeping In Touch” as: “Bringing the Photographic Arts to Our Community.”
Judson Dinkins, a generous SEQCC donor, offered to purchase our first laptop computer only if Ron had responsibility for it! He assisted with the SQPA Annual Art Exhibit and served on its Committee along with several of us. Ron judged several competitions and served as SEQCC’s second President in 2007-2009. In addition to Ron’s SEQCC services, he led digital editing sessions at several senior centers.
Go to Our Beginning, SEQCC, for many of our initial achievements.
In 2011 when Ron and his family moved to Florida, he continued his FCC membership and assisted with their Website, Newsletter, and was frequently called on for his input. He joined the Suncoast Camera Club and became their President in 2015.
A friend reflected on Ron and how he impacted those he met: “I met Ron and his work, friendship and support has left a deep impression on me. His great personality and warm generosity touched me as I’m sure it touched all who knew him. He was such an open and giving person…and he shared generously.”
Ron transitioned on January 7, 2023. His family agreed that Memorial donations in Ron’s memory be sent to SEQCC to teach photography to Middle School students in the After School Program, Roy Wilkins Park. These additional funds enabled the SEQCC to purchase 10 refurbished digital cameras, lens and straps for the students.
Written by Dorothy Gist, September 2024
