The New York Local Board, at its last meeting, made a generous donation to the George Heller Memorial Scholarship Fund to establish scholarships in the names of Conard Fowkes and Kenneth Roberts.
Conard Fowkes worked in all facets of the entertainment industry—theater, television, film and radio—and was a contract player on eight soap operas, including “As The World Turns,” “Search For Tomorrow” and “The Edge of Night.” He also appeared in numerous episodes of the cult series “Dark Shadows.” Although Conard was better known for his service to VITA and AEA, he served on both the AFTRA National and Local Boards and was a Convention Delegate for many years. As President and then Treasurer of the AFTRA Heller Memorial Foundation, for 20 years he handled all the financial information submitted by applicants to the Scholarship Committee. Conard died last December, leaving big shoes to fill at both the unions he served so well.
 Kenneth Roberts |
Kenneth Roberts, a charter member of AFTRA, was an honored radio and television announcer. A staff announcer at CBS for more than 20 years, Ken was the voice of “Love of Life” and ”Secret Storm,” among many other programs. His service to the union spanned five decades. He was NY Local President from 1968-71 and later served as its Treasurer, and he was National Treasurer from 1983 to 1991. He also served on the Scholarship Committee of the AFTRA Heller Memorial Foundation (now the George Heller Memorial Scholarship Fund). Ken died last June at age 99. As his son, actor Tony Roberts, said, “He was a tough act to follow.” Tax-deductable contributions of any amount can be made to The AFTRA Foundation, with “Roberts” or “Fowkes” Scholarship written in the memo line. Contributions may be sent to The George Heller Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o The AFTRA Foundation, 260 Madison Ave., 7th Floor, New York, NY 10016. |