Another great Blood Drive -
Thank you Lew for organizing and Rotarians & friends for helping & donating
Visitor's Day was a huge success with over 12 guests to see the great work that Rotary and our club does
One of the highlights was inducting Charles Koll as a new member - the third generation of Kolls as Rotarians!! Proud dad, Malcolm pinned him, Paul as Membership Chair read the induction, and President Susan handed him his red badge, and then the club gave him a standing ovation.
We were also pleased to learn that Joe Kuhn and the Hilton will be joining us as Corporate Members. Welcome all!!!
Herb connected us with Chikondi Dyson in Malawi who we are helping attend college and got an update on his activities
Vicky showed a video and updated us on the status of the Rotary Foundation's End Polio Now campaign and reminded us of their pledge of $50MM pledge toward this goal, which is matched 2x1 by the Gates Foundation. Herb shared that they have also made 300,000 grants totaling $15MM to Ukraine
John van Cleef, the CEO of the Community Resource Center and Encinitas Rotarian, was our speaker today and updated us on the long range plans of this wonderful non-profit that started as a bread truck in 1979. Susan showed some old photos of our 15+ year support of the CRC, including the Holiday Food Baskets program
Di, as Community Service Chair, presented John two checks from our club: $500 for their Capital Campaign and $1000 for their Mental Health program. President Susan thanked him for being our speaker by presenting him with a certificate showing our support of OEF in El Salvador with the emphasis on children's education, health, and development
We hope we will see all our guests at our social next Thursday, 3/16 at Bushfire Kitchen in Del Mar starting at 5:30, which will take the place of Friday's meeting. Also mark your calendars for the 7-Way Meeting on April 19 at the Hilton
It was a great day as Susan recognized George for all the wonderful things he has done for Rotary, his family, the community, and the world
We faced a beautiful picture of San Diego & snow capped mountains from 1989 - which it looks like today after our recent storms, as Steve reviewed Rotaries 7 areas of focus: Peacebuilding, Disease Prevention, Sanitation, Child Health, Education, Economic Development, & Environment
And it was nice to see Sibylle with Kevin, Charles Koll back for his 4th time, and Dereck, a visitor from Atlanta. Patricia and Susan gave huge accolades to Barbara, Barbara (Fish), and Molly for taking all the items from our locker. Let Susan know if you can store 4 bins of lobsterfest items. And thank you to Bill & Suzanne who will host the demotion party on June 11
Patricia gave a touching update on Shelter Box and showed the major countries where they are helping the 85 million people who are displaced due to violence or turmoil in the world: Turkey, Syria, Ukraine, Pakistan, Mozambique
Molly reminded everyone that next Friday's meeting will be a membership day, so invite your friends, colleagues, acquaintances to hear John Van Cleef, CEO of the CRC
Di clarified that Rotarians at Work Day will be on April 29 from 9-1 which we will be doing with the Solana Beach Eco Club and Encinitas Rotary
We had a great update on happenings in Solana Beach from Lesa Heebner, Mayor, which could also be viewed live on facebook. SB is the 2nd smallest region in the area with 3.4sq miles and faces the same issues as Del Mar - affordable housing and issues with multi-property dwellings. The third phase of the $7MM government grant Corridor Improvement Project is underway to make street more user-friendly and safe. Susan let Lesa know that we will be making a donation in her name for speaking with us, to OEF, a non-profit we support in El Salvador that focuses on children's health and education.
And some were fortunate to hear Kevin's beautiful playing as we left the Hilton for the day
It was great to have Area 4 Presidents & Governors with us today
Our Invocation from Suchandra, who is back from India after 4 months
We were also happy to have back Judy Hunt from Colorado, Charles Koll from Viewpoint for the 3rd time in anticipation of becoming a new member; Leif Halgrim with mom Charlotte, and Don Wells with Just in Time for Foster Youth, who we presented a check to for $6488.97 as one of our LobsterFest Major Beneficiaries. This is the 20th Anniversary for Just in Time, and we have been one of their main supporters from the beginning.
Let Susan, Malcolm or Patricia know if you are interested in any of items from our locker as we clean out
A fun time was had at our social last Thursday at Bushfire. The next will be Thursday, March 16
Joe Kuhn, General Manager of the Hilton where we meet, gave a fun talk about his life in the hotel industry where he started as a housekeeper and rose to regional manager. He considers himself an Innkeeper - taking care of guests, employees, and owners, and works under the management style of Fun, Fair, and Firm. The Hilton is part of Aimbridge Hospitality, the largest franchise hotel industry in the world.
Susan was proud to present Joe with our OEF certificate showing our support for needy children in El Salvador
We had a great turnout today - a reflection of the great job Susan is doing as President
We welcomed visitors Mark Hennenfent, Barbara's guest Lola, Charles Koll from Viewpoint Brewery, and Evan Bridgham from Country Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer's office who mentioned the $500/month rental subsidy for qualifying seniors (contact their office for more info)
- Paul proudly attended the swearing in by Governor Newsom last week of daughter Katie Butler as the Deputy Director of Hazardous Waste Management with a staff of over 300 people - Congratulations!!!!
- Art was able to visit with his son Brandon who was home from his job in the Capital Hill office of Sarah Jacobs
- Happy Birthday to Molly's Finn who turns 3 next week
- Nicole shared that Casa de Amistad has raised over $9K for one of their families affected by the earthquake in Turkey
- Charles invited all to the fundraising event at Viewpoint for local Ukrainians who have been displaced by the ongoing war
NEWS FLASH - LOVE FOR UKRAINIANS NOW CHANGED TO ONE EVENT:
DINNER 6:30-9:30 FOR $120/pp
Vicky shared a Rotary Foundation video and highlighted the seven areas of focus
Susan recognized Di Shimkus with an Imagine Rotary pin in recognition of all the great work she does with Community Service for our club, her work, and her personal life
Social at Bushfire Kitchen next Thursday, 2/16 from 5:30-7:00 and dark on Friday
Nature Walk led by Di after our 2/24 meeting
Patricia invited Rotarians to an upcoming Shelterbox online event on 2/28 at 9:00am which will give a briefing on their humanitarian relief efforts in Ukraine
Our speaker today, Chris Khoury, MD has been recognized for his many environmental contributions by the State of California, County of San Diego, Cities of San Diego & Escondido, and the San Dieguito River Park. He shared that the climate crisis is real and as Jonas Salk said "We have no greater responsibility than to strive to be good ancestors". Visit https://citizensclimatelobby.org for more information.
Susan presented Dr. Khoury with our OEF Certificate showing our help to children in El Salvador
Susan spent a wonderful week with her mom in Arizona
Patricia encouraged everyone to get a heart workup to catch any blocked arteries like she had
Beverly was the high bidder at $75 for a Rotary/Ukraine pin that Bill supplied
Malcolm is off to PETS this weekend along with Steve, reviewing duties as President-Elect
THANK YOU!!
There is one day left to donate to the Kitty McGee Memorial Fund in honor of our long time friend and supporter. We have raised $540 to date
Herb reported that we have raised $4100 ($2300 from club members + $1800 from our international budget) for our project to help kids in El Salvador through OEF, which will be matched by Ildiko.
Click on this link to watch a video of some of their activities: https://youtu.be/6byI_FPdLiE
The next blood drive will be March 18
Susan & Barbara attended the membership workshop on zoom last Saturday, which focused on attracting young professionals. When looking for new members, remember how much Rotary has done for you and pass on that opportunity to others so they can also benefit
We were happy to have the Mayor of Del Mar, Tracey Martinez speak with us this morning. This female, Latino, nurse has been on the City Council for three years and will be serving in this rotating term as mayor for one year. She feels that one of the most difficult tasks ahead is meeting the affordable housing requirements and dealing with ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) and SP9 expansion issues. On a happier note, the City will receive $300 million to do an environment study on moving the train tracks off the bluff.
Susan presented Tracey with our OEF certificate that the above video highlights of our activities in El Salvador
Thank you Di on leading us on a wonderful walk
through the San Elijo Lagoon in honor of our $5000 District Grant to the Nature Collective
Vicky started with a John Wesley invocation
Welcome to visitors Tessa, who represented the U.S. in snowboarding at the Olympics in China; Judy, a Rotarian who divides her time between Del Mar & Colorado; Mauer, who we're always glad to see with Charlotte; and Luis Carranza, District Governor Nominee Designate
Happy Rotarians included:
- Paul who with George & Bill attended the ceremony of retired Navy Capt. Royce Williams who was awarded the Navy Cross for his exploits during the Korean War
- Barbara who shared with other Rotarians her wine tasting event won at LobsterFest
- Herb & Beverly for a great trip to Egypt, Paris, and Normandy
- Charlotte for Lief's 11th birthday
- George for his invitation to visit Korea with grateful Korean war survivors
Di shared that we will be giving Feeding San Diego $500 from Community Service funds, and will be helping again at afternoon shifts to sort food. Also, the Mental Health programs at the CRC will be receiving $1000 from the CS budget. Di helped count and interview the homeless in North County last week
Kevin & Nicole reported that the Model UN training went well with 39 teams, two which we are sponsoring from Casa de Amistad who will be representing South Korea & India
Patricia reminded us that the 3rd Thursday of each month will be a social at Bushfire Kitchen in lieu of the Friday meeting
Malcom reminded us that today is
And on a lighter note, they celebrate Ginuary all month in the UK
We were honored to have Dr. Michael Mantell as our speaker today. He is a world renowned behavior science expert and author, well known for his book "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff PS: It's All Small Stuff." He praised Paul Harris for starting in 1905 an organization that puts Service, and Others Above Self and reminded us that the link is what you think; space is power; your emotions are your responsibility; and its important to incorporate acceptance and flexibility in ones thinking. As he quoted from Voltaire: "Life is a wreck, but we must learn to sing in our lifeboat"
Malcolm, as Acting President, presented him our certificate that shows our support of OEF in El Salvador
Another fun social at Bushfire Kitchen in Del Mar
President Susan leading the toast to good friends & family
We wish Herb a speedy recovery from Covid
A new banner greeted members as they entered the meeting room
Steve reminded us that Arch Klumph started the Society named after him in 1927 to recognize donors who have contributed $250,000 or more to the Rotary Foundation. Recent new members Susan & Mark Hennenfent will be going next March to the Rotary International headquarters in Evanston, Illinois to watch as their portrait is placed in the Arch Klumph Society Gallery.
Vicky shared a touching Foundation video and awarded Jan her Paul Harris +3 pin (with 3 rubies) in recognition of her contributions to the Rotary Foundation
Susan encouraged all to attend The Membership Seminar - How to attract & engage with young professionals which will be via zoom next Saturday, 1/21 from 9-10:30am. We are all part of Membership, and need to grow our club
or join Kevin & Nicole at the Model UN training session the same day - 8:00am-1:00pm, Del Mar City Hall. They also need Advisors for the Model UN students
Patricia invited all to see the King Tut immersive experience at the Del Mar Fairgrounds on February 2 at 11:30 before heading over to Viewpoint for lunch
Di shared that Feeding San Diego desperately needs volunteers to help sort to keep their vital operation functional. She will be heading up more work parties and encouraged members to contact them directly for other times to assist
We are looking for additional donations to reach our goal of $2200 continue our work helping children in El Salvador through OEF. Let Herb or Susan know if you'd like to contribute.
Nicole Mione-Green, club member and Executive Director of Casa de Amistad shared with us how their volunteers and mentors help young people form developmental relationships, which change their lives. These relationships help them discover who they are, cultivates abilities to be successful and thrive, and learn how to engage with and contribute to the world around them.
After a wonderful presentation, Susan presented Nicole with our certificate showing our support for OEF in El Salvador
Art quoted Shakespeare in his invocation:
Love all, trust a few, do wrong to none
We are so glad Patricia went for an angiogram and wish her a quick recovery from the 4 stents they put in!!
Best Wishes to Malcolm & Venesse on their 39th Anniversary & to Bill for his upcoming 76th Birthday
Happy travelers over the holidays were Charlotte for a trip to Puerto Vallarta with family; Art to Mexico, Alaska, & DC to see his son's new home; Jon to Chicago to spend with his grandkids, daughter, & wife
Nicole shared the following comic about superhero Rotarians that her husband found
Welcome to Rotarian Judy Hunt who was visiting from Colorado
Jan showing off the Imagine Rotary pin given her by Susan in recognition of her work on our website and press releases
We were proud to present Casa de Amistad a check for $7364 as one of our LobsterFest major beneficiaries
It was with great sadness that we learned that long time friend and supporter, Kitty McGee passed away on December 27.
She provided countless hours of her time and brilliant graphic arts/marketing talents in support of our club and our fundraisers - Boccefest and Lobsterfest. A site for donations in honor of Kitty has been set up through the Rotary Foundation. Click below if you'd like to contribute
After much analysis, Treasurer Charlotte presented two options going forward for dues (club, district, international) which will be charged to all whether present at meetings or not:
Option 1: $206/qtr to include coffee but no breakfast
Options 2: $245/qtr with full access to the hotel breakfast buffet
Let her know your choice if you did not complete a ballot
Our own Di Shimkus (founder of Everyday Mindfulness who has been practicing & teaching mindfulness for over 40 years), started our new year with mindfulness practices for every day. We learned that due to neuroplasticity the brain can be changed for the better and that the first 3 thoughts of the day can determine what kind of day you will have.
"The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, worry about the future, or anticipate troubles, but to live wisely and compassionately in the present moment"
Rotarians place wreaths on the graves of our fallen heroes for the holidays to remember & honor them
in conjunction with Wreaths Across America
Charlotte Jones, Mauer and Leif Halgrim; Suzanne & Bill Sutton (not pictured)
The last meeting of the year brought out a great turnout:
- It was nice to see Phil in person - Art showed up & was fined for his long hair - Molly was back after Covid
The Suttons & Butler have the same wedding anniversary on the 27th
This would have been George & Lou's 72 Anniversary
Bill gave happy dollars for his & Suzanne's 52nd (or is that 53?, to which Suzanne responded: It's been real!!)
Paul almost forgot to contribute for his & Mary's 44th, but he came through
Molly was happy for Riley's 4th Birthday!!!!
Ken was fined for his ugly Christmas sweater that appeared in Newsbits as part of Surfers United
Jan was $76 happy for her 12/17 Birthday
Congratulations to Patricia who was recognized by Susan for all her great work with our socials
And we learned of upcoming socials at Bushfire Kitchen the 3rd Thursday of each month through March
Barbara Berkovich gave her Who Am I: She is a professor at USD with a PHD in Medical Data Records and has a son who lives in Beijing, a daughter, and a dog named Ruben
Malcolm generously gave everyone a Charles Koll Jewelry Works Holiday Ornament, which they will engrave for free if you stop by their store in Sorrento Valley
Our speaker, Don Kent, President & CEO of Hubbs-Seaworld Research gave a fascinating talk about how this non-profit scientific research organization is committed to conserving and renewing marine life to ensure a healthier planet.
Happy Holidays - See you in 2023
So much fun at the Holiday Extravaganza we threw for Casa de Amistad Families -
tamales, holiday crafts, hot chocolate, Santa, gifts, & love
Thank you Fosters & Suttons for sponsoring & everyone who contributed & helped
Helping At Feeding San Diego for CRC Families
Susan kept count as we reached the goal of 270 bags each of kiwi & onions
Bag cutters Al, Di, & Charlotte
Working the kiwi: Sandy, Bill, Suzanne, Barbara, & Jan
Onion baggers: Mark, Kevin, Vicky, Paul, & Lew
President Susan recognized Suzanne Sutton for all she does
for the club as Secretary & Social Co-Chair
Carl Nettelton, founder of OpenOceans Global, brought copies of ArcNews for Venky that featured his grandson, Karen Chakravarthy
Vicky reminded members to make their contribution to The Rotary Foundation Annual Fund by the end of the year for a tax reduction
Kevin shared that Model UN has picked two resolutions to discuss: space security and food insecurity
Contact Charlotte if you're interested in helping with Wreaths Across America on 12/17
George presented our wonderful Hilton staff with a thank you donation from the club for all they do to make our meetings run smoothly
Chris Kelly spoke with us about the San Diego Seniors Foundation programs, one of the many non-profits his philanthropic family has been involved with. The need is great as there were 405,000 seniors in San Diego County over 65 in 2000, and it is expected to swell to 950,000 by 2030. Currently only 3% of charitable dollars go to helping seniors.
Susan presented Chris with our OEF Certificate showing our help to the needy of all ages in El Salvador
The Holiday Party at the home of Jon & Barbara Fish started the season with great fun, food, and fellowship
and social divas Patricia & Suzanne had members competing in the Christmas trivia contest
Happy Holidays & thank you to all
Charlotte reminded us to give thanks for the light
We were sorry to hear that Sandy has the flu, Molly has Covid, and Venky broke his wrist. Happy Rotarians were Susan for a wonderful trip to Hawaii where she swam with the manta rays & watched Mauna Loa erupt; Charles for a great trip with grandkids to Machu Picchu, the Galapagos, & sale of his home; Steve for a fun trip to Cabo where he played pickleball
To give the Hilton a good count, Susan would like to know by noon on Wednesday of each week if you cannot attend the Friday meeting
Patricia in her Christmas attire reminded members of the Holiday Party at the Fish's on Sunday, 12/4, at 5:00 - byob
Our most critical area of focus this year is membership. Paul reiterated our goal of 38 members by the end of the fiscal year. Look for 1st responders in December - police, fire fighters, paramedics
Check Upcoming Events for Food Sorting & Casa de Amistad Holiday Extravaganza which will now be in two shifts
Wreaths Across America will be on 12/17 this year. Sign up directly with them
We were reminded of the wonderful services provided by Interfaith Shelter Network in conjunction with local congregations and community partners to provide shelter, transitional housing, & homelessness assistance. We learned from Joe Zilvinskis that the non-profit has been around 36 years and counts on its 4000 volunteers & 8 staff to provide their guests a safe, caring environment. ISN also has a transitional living program for domestic violence victims.
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Service Above Self
Del Mar, CA 92014
United States of America