BRITTANY FLORES

A little about John and Fosca:

John Zandonella, "MR. REPORTER," along with his wife Fosca were the epitome of a couple who truly loved the profession of court reporting. They not only talked the talk but walked the walk!!! Together they for many years owned and operated a well renowned and respected deposition agency in Concord. You rarely, if ever, would you see John at any reporting function without his "right-hand" woman. Fosca was always at John's side at all of our conventions for the day DRA was founded.

John had an esteemed reputation in the nation from coast to coast. We couldn't even attempt to name the names of associations nationwide who had honored John. I was in his office one day and could not believe all the plaques and certificates hanging on the walls. I was in awe.

BUT John is better known by all of us from DRA who knew him well as being the foundation upon which DRA was built. After many years of his distinguished service with local and state associations, John probably made one of the most difficult decisions in this reporting career, and that was to become on the DRA's founders and its staunchest supporter. When John spoke, everyone listened. Without John, more than likely DRA would not be in existence today. He was stalwart in his fight and support to make sure DRA would survive. John was one of the most esteemed reporters who believed DRA needed to go its own way to support the freelance reporters in the State of California.

DRA members have big shoes to fill - little shoes for Fosca - to try to follow in John's and Fosca's steps and make sure DRA continues to be strong and work hard to be certain DRA's success continues.

It does not seem the same at the DRA functions with the two of them honoring us with presence. We will miss them dearly.

DRA's past officers and board members only wish those of you who did not know these two wonderful people had an opportunity to get to know Fosca and John.

Brittany's acceptance of the John and Fosca Zandonella $1,500 Scholarship:

I feel absolutely honored and privileged to accept this scholarship from the Deposition Reporters Association. We are all very lucky that this state has passionate organizations, such as the DRA, who motivate and assist students in need. The opportunities these scholarships make available are imperative for the continuance of the court reporting profession. I know how important scholarships such as these are to students in a field of study that is costly and demanding. I am humbled by the generous support I have been awarded by this fine association and look forward to becoming a licensed CSR so that I can have my own chance to give back to the court reporting community. With my deepest sincerity, I thank you.