Rock 'N Rotary is November 5th!

West Hartford Rotary Club

June 17, 2019 Luncheon Meeting Minutes

1. Our speaker was Tracy Wilson, a historian. She gave us a presentation of the history of slavery in West Hartford. Wealthy farmers in the area bought the first slaves from Dutch traders. Slaves were sold for about 50 pounds. According to the records, there were 72 recorded slaves in West Hartford. A cemetery for Black slaves is located in the North Cemetery.

2. The Rotary Foundation still is looking for contributions to the annual fund. Our goal of $10,000 has not yet been met. In order to reach our goal, the Board voted to contribute $2,000 to the Foundation to make up the difference.

3. According to Tony Rodriguez, our club will make a down payment of $2,000 to Delamar for the Jazz Brunch. Another payment of ½ of the total fee will be due on October 31 with the balance due at the conclusion of the event.

4. Don’t forget to mark your calendars for July 9, the date for our Installation Dinner to welcome our new President, Bennett Forrest. Dinner will be at the Pond House at 6:00 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Oscar M. Santo Domingo

West Hartford Rotary Club

June 10, 2019 Luncheon Meeting Minutes

1. Our speakers were Erica de Francesco and Bob Savage representing Live Well, a Southington group who offer services to people with dementia and their families. The organization promotes awareness in the surrounding communities and works with Dementia Friends, a support group. According to them there are 7000 people who are diagnosed with dementia in Connecticut. It is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States. The mission of Live Well is to give those suffering from dementia the opportunity to live well and determine the course of their lives and to have access to the care and support they need. But like any organization providing help and support for others, they also need support for them to continue their mission.

2. The Rotary Foundation still is looking for contributions to the annual fund. Our goal of $10,000 has not et been met. Only 37% of our membership have fulfilled their pledge.

3. Celebrate West Hartford was a success. We netted around $5,300. Kudos to Bennett and all who volunteered to do the hard work of grilling and serving hot dogs and hamburgers to the hungry folks celebrating the arrival of spring. For once no rain dampened the event.

4. According to Tony, we will have to sell 200 tickets at $100 each to make a profit at the Jazz brunch. This is dependent on the cost of the musicians, the support from the Friends of Music and any sponsorships we can get. There will be a change in the venue this year, The Artisan Restaurant at the Delamar Hotel. Let’s all work to make this a success.

Respectfully submitted,

Oscar M. Santo Domingo

West Hartford Rotary Club

Notes for Luncheon Meeting June 10

1. Our Sales at the Celebrate West Hartford event were successful. the weather was great, and the volunteers, especially the grillers were so organized. They successfully kept track of the orders during a busy two-hour stint. Our volunteers manning the booth came from different Rotary Clubs and three children also helped on the drink orders. Both days had equal amounts of food and beverages sold. The following volunteers deserve a shout out for their example shown of the Rotary spirit. They are Mary Etter, Bob Buettner, Dave McCallister, Chris Grant, Cindy and Mrs. Howard. To Bennett and all the volunteers, “Job well done.”

2. The Dictionary Project is ongoing. As of today (June 7), there are only two more schools on the list. The kids have been wonderful, and it is interesting to see how they react to Noah Webster. The surprise in their faces as they think Mr. Webster is still alive because they know he wrote the dictionary long ago, like in the 18th century. Thanks to all who volunteered and helped in the task of distributing the dictionaries to the third graders in our Town.

3. The Rotary Scholarship was awarded at both Hall and Conard High Schools on May 22 and 29. Thanks to Harry Davidson and Matt Cuddy for their services.

Respectfully submitted,

Oscar M. Santo Domingo

West Hartford Rotary Club

May 13, 2019 Luncheon Meeting Minutes

1. Christine Looby gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. During our lunch a check for $1,000 was presented to the Center for Children’s Advocacy as one of our donations to local organizations. According to the Organization, this amount will pay for a year of defense to obtain his or her rights for abuses that occurred when he or she was a young child.

2. Our speakers were Rick and Elin Lawrence. They have an ongoing water and sanitation project in Guatemala. Rick gave a slide presentation of the project. Lack of potable water and poor sanitation are conditions found in many parts of the country. This project was primarily funded through Rotary Club donations and donations are still needed to maintain the project. Elin brought local handcrafts to sell on trip trip to sell in order to raise money for the project.

3. Eileen Rau is still reminding us to contribute to the Rotary Foundation. She is hoping for 100% participation.

4. Get ready to march in the Memorial Day Parade on May 27. Wear you Rotary Shirt.

5. Volunteers are still needed for Celebrate West Hartford. Go to the website to sign up. Bennett needs more helping hands especially for the following shifts:

• Saturday, June 1 – 12:00 to 3:30
• Sunday, June 2 – 11:30 to 2:30
• 2:00 to 5:00
• Clean-up 4:3 to 7:00

West Hartford Rotary Club

May 6, 2019 Luncheon Meeting Minutes

1. Our speaker was Greg, H. Priest, the new West Hartford Fire Chief. He reported that we have 90 firemen in the Town with five personnel at each firehouse. Every fireman is a trained EMT so that there is someone available at all times to respond to an emergency. It is a State requirement that on any emergency call made by the fire truck, a person trained as an EMT is present. For some emergencies the EMT has to select an ambulance to transport a patient. If that particular ambulance company is not on the recommended service of his or her insurance, there is a problem with the billing. A commercial building or office has a designed fire code which can easily be checked for fire safety conformance. However, a residential building does not have one maybe just a self installed fire alarm However, any residential or public building can contact the fire department and get a fireman to give a group lecture on fire safety.

2. Our club is still below the $10,000 goal for Foundation donations. Only 30% of our members have donated to date.

3. Our Rotary club will participate in the Memorial Day parade on May 27. Sign up and be proud to represent our club.

4. We need volunteers for the Celebrate West Hartford event where we serve hot dogs and hamburgers. You can sign up thru the website email or you can make a call or text to Bennett. Make sure you specify what days you are available and what part of the effort you can be part of. E.g.: set up, cooking, money handling, clean up, serving food.

Respectfully submitted,

Oscar M. Santo Domingo

West Hartford Fire Chief Greg Priest with Rotarians Mary Silverberg and Oscar Santo Domingo

West Hartford Rotary Club

April 29, 2019 Luncheon Meeting Minutes

1. Our last meeting, designated as “Club Assembly”, to make a time for us to label all dictionaries for the third graders. Several Rotarians were assigned a school for distribution of dictionaries. These Rotarians are responsible for coordinating with their assigned school as to when the kids will be available for distribution. Please report to Christine Looby as to when you are planning this distribution to avoid conflicts. The distribution will have the services of “Noah Webster” to inform the students of the history of the dictionary. All Rotarians are encouraged to attend at any scheduled dictionary event.

2. We had a visitor from the Plainville Rotary club, Craig Carroll. He informed us that a student exchange organization from Europe is sending high school students to the US to get experience in our education facilities, participate in job training and science and engineering. He is looking for Rotarians who would be willing to participate in this program to host these students.

3. Tom Wood was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow Award for his exemplary service in the name of Rotary. He has helped the club manage its finances including expenses, stock purchases and investments.

4. Proposed locations for the spring Jazz Brunch were put to a vote. A majority voted to have the event at the Delamar Hotel in Blueback Square. Tony Rodriguez will investigate this possibility.

Respectfully submitted,

Oscar M. Santo Domingo

West Hartford Rotary Club

April 15, 2019 Luncheon Meeting Minutes

1. Today’s speaker was Christopher Conway, the executive director of the West Hartford Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber is an organization composed of Town businessmen and managers of institutions. They meet at the Noah Webster Library in the morning and they have a site on Facebook. Joining the Chamber gives members a network of other businessmen and marketing opportunities. Members may use their memberships to promote their activities, fund raise. The club’s objectives are to enhance the development of our town’s businesses, civic organizations and cultural well-being. They are located at

948 Farmington Avenue

West Hartford, CT 06107

Tel. 860 521-2300 Web site – www.whchamber.com/

2. We had three visitors today Mary and Joe brought Ralph Balbasare and Kyung Soon, who had just arrived from South Korea. A future member, Tanya Falcon, was also our guest.

3. Our Club is still behind in our contributions for the Rotary Foundation and Polio Plus. Time to send in your donations.

4. The books have arrived for the Dictionary Project. We need at least 3 SUV’s to haul them from the United Bank to the Pond House so that we can place the labels and assign volunteers to each elementary school. The labeling is scheduled for April 29, our Club Assembly Meeting.

Guest speaker Christopher Conway

West Hartford Rotary Club

April 8, 2019 Luncheon Meeting Minutes

1. Spring is on its way. The chilly air will soon give way to the warmth of the sun, buds will pop open and colors of spring will surround us.

2. Again, attendance at lunch was good. Our speakers were from the Village for Families and Children. This organization, located on Albany Avenue in Hartford, not only provides services for children but also assistance for adults with medical, psychiatric or trauma related problems. Their medication treatment program is helping to address the opioid epidemic in our community. Like other family service organizations, they need volunteers and donations to keep their programs working.

3. HANOC game day was a success. For those of you wondering what HANOC stands for – Hillcrest Avenue Neighborhood Outreach Center. Adults and kids enjoyed pizza and a variety of games. David Mangs’ “Contemporary Pinball Box” was a hit. It needs to be seen and played with to be appreciated. (Luncheon meeting appearance?)

4. Tony Rodriguez plans to have the jazz brunch with talented jazz players who have roots here in Connecticut. Hall Conard and Northwest Catholic have all contributed players of note to the music world.

5. Vines of March event is still looking for a place. No suggestion has yet proved possible.

President Oscar Santo Doming, Rotarian Mary Silverberg, Galo Rodriguez and speakers from Village of Children and Families.

West Hartford Rotary Club

April 1, 2019 Luncheon Meeting Minutes

1. Spring has arrived! Many came out to greet her and the meeting was well attended. Christine Looby gave the invocation; Eileen Rau encouraged members to donate to the Rotary Foundation. She suggested using the Club Runner as an easy way to do this.

2. Those in attendance for this club assembly meeting were happy to discuss methods for improving our fund-raising efforts.

3. Kyle Egress mentioned that we did not do a good job on reaching out to organizations we support for their support in selling tickets for our Vines of March event.

4. Eileen and Bennett mentioned that we complete our list of organization we support on our Club Runner so we can connect to them electronically for our solicitations. Some members suggested that the most effective way to approach an organization is to talk to the manager.

5. According to Tom, our treasurer, our financial status to June of this year is in good shape We will be able to meet the yearly donations we have decided to make.

6. Our Club met with members of the Children’s Museum to ensure that our donations are being well spent. They will need to provide receipts, plans and a description of where the money has been spent to us. We need these in order to report to the District Grant Chairman before May 1

West Hartford Rotary Club

March 25, 2019 Luncheon Meeting Minutes

1. Ms. Briann Greenfield from the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center was our guest speaker. She gave a slide presentation of the accomplishments and works of Harriet Beecher Stowe. Harriet was born in Litchfield, Connecticut in the year 1811. She came from a very religious family and was active in the movement to abolish slavery. She is best known for her novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin which depicted the very harsh conditions under which most African slaves lived. To support her depiction of slave life she also published testimonies made by former enslaved African Americans. Her work reflected the belief that slavery demeaned society.

2. Our club is still hunting for a place for next year’s Vines of March. Some suggestions are under consideration, but no place has yet been selected.

3. Tony Rodriguez is exploring ideas and sites for this spring’s Jazz Brunch. He has set up meetings with other venues in Hartford or West Hartford but has not yet selected one.

Rotarians Mary Silverberg and Booker DeVaughn with guest speaker Briann Greenfield.

West Hartford Rotary Club

March 18, 2019 Luncheon Meeting Minutes

1. District Governor Kate Sims was our speaker. She talked about the opioid epidemic in this country. She said one misconception is that the problem is one which involves the youth of our country. However, the forty-year-old population is the one having the most difficulty with addiction. Our District Clubs are banding together to come up with ways to organize so that we together we can help in finding solutions to this problem.

2. Kyle Egress summarized the results from this year’s Vines of March fund raising event. We discussed some of the ways to make the event more successful. One problem is going to be finding a place to hold the event since the University of Saint Joseph dining hall is not going to be available because of renovations. Town Hall is already booked for March. Also mentioned are Temple Beth Israel, Rockledge, and the JCC.

3. Bruce Stanger and Fern Vidal volunteered to view the District Grant Webinar on March 30 at ten o’clock in the morning. This is necessary so that the club can qualify for the next year’s grant.

4. Volunteers are still needed for the HANOC event on April 10. This event involves playing games with young children.

West Hartford Rotary Club

March 4, 2019 Luncheon Meeting

1. In spite of the snowy weather we met to discuss the upcoming Vines of March. Items of importance were finalized.

2. Fortunately, the weather on the 9th was great. So was the event. Thanks to all that contributed to its success. Kudos to Kyle and Tom. Here are the results of our fund raising.

• Tickets Sold: 170 or $10,515
• Live auction: $ 6,425
• Silent auction: $ 5,375
• Table pieces: $ 720
• Sponsorships: $11,000

3. Next year’s event is looking for a new location. The University dining area is due for renovation and will not be finished in time for us to use it.

4. Our speaker for Monday the 18th will be Kate Sims, our District Governor. She will inform us about coming events and news about other clubs in District 7890.

5. We can never thank Saint Joseph University enough for the help extended to our club over the past two years.

West Hartford Rotary Club

February 25, 2019 Luncheon Meeting

1. Mr. Jeff Shaw was inducted as our new member. The Rotary Pledge for new members was read by Bennett Forrest

2. Eileen Rau reminded us of the Rotary Foundation birthday. The best way to celebrate is to donate. Polio Plus can also use a little pick-me-up. These donations make our work worldwide more fruitful.

3. Volunteer to help with the Dictionary Project. Bennett offered his garage and Liza offered a room for storage in the bank.

4. The Vines of March is just around the corner. We still need to sell more tickets. So far, we estimate 140 have been sold. Our sponsorship funds have reached $9,000. Thanks to all! Auction items are still lacking. Eileen and Bob Rau have donated three I-pads to supplement our silent auction items. This will certainly make that auction exciting. Our regular auction is lacking the usual vacation properties this year. We need volunteers to pick up food donations from participating restaurants. Please contact Patricia Kiely to get your assigned food pick-up restaurants.

5. The Fresh Start Pallet group gave us a presentation of their work. Their mission is to help people by employing them in making furniture out of discarded pallets. Their goal is to help the unemployed by training, building confidence, and enhancing skills to enable people to become productive independent citizens.

West Hartford Rotary Club

February 11, 2019 Luncheon Meeting

1. ANNOUNCEMENT: NO ROTARY MEETING FEBRUARY 18

2. Last meeting was used for club assembly in order to organize for the upcoming Vines of March event on March 9. There are still many items we need to accomplish – selling more tickets (only 70 tickets are currently sold), getting more sponsors ( Kyle stated that at present we have around $6,000 worth pledged ). We have received the needed health certificates and insurance and tax exemptions are on hand. Auction items are still slow in coming. The restaurants that have been mentioned have to be finalized for mention in our list in the booklet.

3. Prasad, chairman of the Rotary Foundation from District 7890 made a pitch for the Hartford :Youth Scholars Program. Prasad is looking for donations from our club and the surrounding area clubs to help with the purchase of computer tablets. In the past our club has been helpful in this effort. Prasad also talked about How important Rotary is in promoting education and health benefits to people who need help. This can only be accomplished with our support. This is the 114th anniversary of the Rotary Foundation.

4. On March 14 the Children’s Museum is hosting a Gala, Live Auction and sit-down dinner at the Delamar Hotel. They are asking us to be an event sponsor. They are also looking for table sponsors; tables are $1,200. We will take up this question at our next board meeting. Anyone interested in attending, please contact Oscar.

West Hartford Rotary Club

January 28, 2019 Luncheon Meeting

1. This meeting was a club assembly in order to plan for the Vines of March. Kyle wants to make sure that tickets are being sold, sponsors are in place and that planning with the University of Saint Joseph for the layout, insurance and health department has been done. At present, the first meeting was held at the University and we reviewed the layout and number of tables and chairs needed.

2. Bruce Stanger gave a report on his bike ride to raise funds for the ARAVA Institute. The goal of this organization is to promote friendship between Israelis, Palestinians and surrounding countries. It is a non-profit organization that promotes critical environmental work and peace building. It recruits students from all over the world, especially the Middle East. As they work together the students begin to appreciate the different customs and beliefs that form the mosaic of today’s world.

3. Bennett Forrest has completed the book collection that was stored at the Beth Israel Temple on Farmington Avenue. He was able to get volunteers to deliver books to the different schools in the area. Bennett should be commended for the time and effort spent to make this event successful. One school has already expressed its appreciation for these books commenting that the books are in good condition and of high interest to the students. The books will be used to restock the classroom libraries.

West Hartford Rotary Club

January 14, 2019 Luncheon Meeting

1. Last week’s meeting was a Club Assembly. We discussed the Vines of March which is to be held on March 9, 2019. It is only 50 days away and we need dedicated members to volunteer to help with putting together auction items, finding restaurants to donate food and sponsors. Time is of the essence since we need to put together a program brochure for the event which names the companies and/or people who have donated.

2. We have put together a for use in solicitation of sponsors, food donations and auction items. Patricia Kiely is setting up a meeting with the University of Saint Joseph to apprise them of our plans and needs for this event on March 9.

3. Ann Leabman and Tony Rodriguez again reminded our members of the January 22, 2019 Blood Drive to be held at the Town Hall from 1:30 to 5:00 pm.

4. We discussed involving the University of Hartford Rotaract in setting up a plan for the Outreach Program at the University. Hopefully it will both attract students to join in our efforts to help the needy by donating free meals.

5. We need to contribute to the Polio-Plus and Rotary Foundation in order to meet the District goals for this year (almost $10,000). Eileen is gratefully accepting donations large and small to help in this endeavor.

REMINDER - no meeting on Monday, January 21st!

Foundation lead Eileen Rau presents the Paul Harris Award to Rotarian Harry Davidson

West Hartford Rotary Club

January 7, 2019 Luncheon Meeting

1. Attendance was great. The year ahead is looking good. Sheila Diamond and Dennis received a check for $1,500 for the Senior Job Bank. Ann Leabman reminded us of the Blood Donor Day on January 22, 2019. Don’t forget to make an appointment before you go at either on line at redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-733-2767

2. Tony Rodriguez reminded us why donating to the Rotary Foundation is important to the community. Ten countries who need help in education, health and water supply have been the beneficiaries of grants. The Foundation is a very important part of our organization that has contributed to the welfare of the disadvantaged people who live in economically poor countries.

3. Our speaker was Matt Hart, the present Town Manager. His focus was that the Town is trying to more efficiently use our resources. One way is to share services and the other is for our taxpayers to step up and suggest ways to trim expenses. According to him there are many projects that are in the works that may help to lower our property taxes. For example, the parcel of land Saint Joseph Convent occupied on the corner of Prospect Avenue and Park Road has just received approval for a large addition that will increase our property tax base.

Rotarian / Mayor of West Hartford Shari Cantor, Rotarian Mary Silverberg, and guest speaker Town Manager Matt Hart

Rotarian Kyle Egress receives a Paul Harris Award from Club President Oscar Santo Domingo

1. The following donations were requested and approved by the board.
   • Johnny’s Jog - $1,200
   • ARAVA Institute - $500
   • Marinduque North (dialysis machine) - $2,000
2. Blood donation project will be held at Town Hall in January in honor of Hap Leabman.The decision to hold it every year as suggested by Bruce Stanger, will be decided after this event
3. The treasurer commented that the Club is in good financial status or the year 2018.
4. We will donate to the Noah Webster House for our Dictionary Project. (we will still hand out dictionaries...)
5. The sign-up sheet for our December 17^th holiday meeting was passed out. At present 43 Rotarians and their guest are planning to attend. Another 10 guests from the Hartford Rotary Club will also be attending.

 

                West Hartford Rotary Club Meeting

                     December 3, 2018 Proceedings

1. Eileen Rau again reminded us that our polio eradication program is still in progress in four countries where polio is still found. She also mentioned that donations are still needed. Make your donation to Polio –Plus for $38.00.

2. Ann Leabman came out with blood donation posters honoring Hap. This drive will be sponsored by the West Hartford Rotary as part of our Community Projects and will keep our name out there in the Town.

3. Robin attended the meeting to volunteer- help in organizing the auction materials for the Vines of March.

4. Breaking News: The District approved funding for dialysis machines for our sister club in Marinduque, Philippines. They are intended for the Provincial Hospital. This project is a combined effort by sister clubs and other US based rotary clubs.

5. The December 17 noon meeting will be used to celebrate the coming holidays. Bring your friends, significant others, and kids to enjoy lunch and listen to the Hall High School Madrigal singers. A sign-up sheet will be at our next meeting. We need a head count so we can inform the Pond House. Some members of the Hartford Rotary are also planning to attend.

West Hartford Rotary Club Meeting

November 26 Proceedings

1. Susan Oslander requested a day of fun with the Hanoc children. We need volunteers and a time and date. Eileen will find out when this is to happen.

2. We discussed the outreach program (aka the Food Pantry). The board seems to feel that we have too much on our plates with the Vines of March looming. David Mangs has asked for a donation and volunteers to make it a one-day affair. Hopefully the Rotaract will extend their hands. According to Greg Friedland there might be only 5 students who are interested in joining Rotaract.

3. Jeff Brevin gave the Club some information about what is happening at the American School for the Deaf. Bruce Stanger gave an update about his yearly bike trip to Israel.

4. Ken Flourde talked about his involvement with the opioid Crisis and would like to talk more about the subject for a future meeting.

5. Steve Nimz of New Britain Rotary was at the meeting to sell holiday wreaths. This is their seasonal fund-raising project.

6. Vines of March has started planning for the big event. Kyle led the meeting after summarizing what are needed to make this event successful. The ticket price was raised to $75 per person. However, anyone buying his or her ticket before February 8 can get it for $70,

7. The Rotary Board propose to make the Dec.17 meeting our Holiday party since next coming year we will be occupied with the planning of the Vines of March.Watch for more update for this event. Sign up for the party It will be fun, good food and relaxing.

Club President Oscar Santo Domingo, Rotarian Mary Silverberg, and guest speaker Susan Oslander

1.   Twenty Rotarians were present to hear speaker Duanne Martin, the Town Engineer. He distributed a street map which showed the progress in repairing our streets. He discussed the plans for prioritizing the repairs as well as the sequence, MDC’s role in the repair, and the difference between asphalt and granite curbing. Rotarians had questions about the streets near their houses.
2. . Steve Leone, the former Wine Cellar owner was present to discuss the Wine Cellar’s role in the March 9, 2019 Vines of March set up and system for placing orders. 
3. Paul Harris award pin was given Kove Schwartz for his time and effort spent in furthering the goals of Rotary.
4. Tony Rodriguez announced that the Jazz Brunch had a net of $7,200. His efforts were given a resounding applause.
5. Our efforts to eradicate polio remains a main objective for the Rotary Foundation. We still have a way to go in keeping the world healthy, safe and educated. Please donate.
6. Rotary Means Business has a meeting in Avon coming up. Check your email for particulars.

Club Assembly Meeting - November 12 Proceedings

1. Honoring our veterans: Ed Cape Harvey Davidson and Dave Gerol were honored. Both Ed and Harry recounted their experiences during their time as soldiers.

2. Eileen Rau passed around polio virus dolls that she had from another club meeting

3. We presented our donation to the Children’s Museum for $ 6,000 to start the development of a Learning Lab for children 3 years old and up. As Mike Werle said, the room will symbolize Rotary’s essential goal. Our Rotary Emblem will be part of the room. The Children’s Museum director is in talks with the Town Official regarding the possibility of relocating the building

4. Our visitors, Ellen and Jeff Shaw were introduced. Mile Werle and Joe Defeo were also recognized.

5. Tony Rodriguez was happy about the attendance for the Jazz brunch, but let the management know about its shortfall in the kitchen and table management.

6. The Vines of March as announced by the co-chairman Kyle Egress. Tom Wood will assist Kyle for this fund-raising event.

7. Joe Stafford met a group that builds wood furniture. He will invite them to address our meeting to give us some pointers as to saving or replacing the Rotary benches in Town.

8. A Rotary party is in the works, but after the festivities. Eileen will help organize it.

9. The Berlin Rotary Club will be at our meeting on November 19 to take orders for their Christmas wreath sale.

LUNCHEON MEETING, October 29, 2018

1. Our meeting was visited by three witches, Mr. Incredible, and a lobster woman. All enjoyed the candies placed at the tables. Thanks are owed to Dave, Eileen ,Elizabeth, Ana and Mary for their show of Halloween spirit.

2. The Turkey Drive is rolling. Fern has collected our contributions and the Club has donated $1,600 for the Drive. This donation will be given to The Town That Cares.

3. Rotarians applauded the efforts of Tony and Ann for the successful turnout expected at the Hartford Club Jazz Brunch. The results have been so good that we have had to close the ticket sales.

4. Eileen reminds us not to forget that many children are still affected by polio. Keep the donations coming.

5. Dave Mangs reported on efforts to stop the epidemic of drug addiction and the recruitment of young people to join Rotary.

6. Betty and her daughter Kate were honored at the presentation of a Paul Harris +5 pin which Bob earned for the time and effort he spent in promoting Rotary.

7. A Blood Drive is getting set up for January. Ann Leabman mentioned that it needs 1,000 feet of space. The Town Hall, the American School for the Deaf and Saint Joseph University were mentioned as possible sites.

Latest Update: Ann has booked the Town Hall Auditorium on Jan.22,2019 from 12:30 to 5:00 pm Our Club will be the sponsor for this Blood drive.

              LUNCHEON MEETING, October 22, 2018

1. Peter Lamothe from Jackson Labs was our guest speaker. Jackson Labs is a non-profit organization located on the UCONN Dempsey campus that focuses on mammalian genetics research. Their research at present is on developing medications tailored for each patient’s genetic makeup. According to Peter, they have around 10,000 mice used for testing. They use mice because they have the closest DNA to human being. Jackson Lab’s main office is in Bar Harbor Maine. Their focus is on basic research which they share with other labs in the hope that it will help them in their own particular research.

2. The ticket sales for the Jazz Brunch are excellent. As of Oct. 24, we have sold and received payment for 230 tickets. A sudden influx of buyers is coming in and now we are afraid the we will go over the capacity of the Hartford Club’s dining room. Tony suggests that our web site should announce that the ticket sale is closed (it was closed).

3. The 30th anniversary of our World Polio Eradication Drive was held on October 24. We still have not achieved our goal of world-wide elimination. Don’t forget to donate to the Fund. In addition to polio that we have known, there is a new virus that resembles polio that is infecting children much is the same way that polio did.

1. Our speaker was Mark McGovern, Town of West Hartford. He talked about the ongoing projects that are taking place around town such as:

a. the Trout Brook exit from I- 84. This will handle a larger volume of traffic.

b. IDEANOMICS has purchased the UCONN site. They are applying for zone changes to the area to accommodate their plans for the area.

c. The recent sewage problem on Linnard and other streets was mentioned, and the MDC is currently repairing the damage.

2. Eileen Rau gave us an update on the celebrations planned for the 30-year anniversary of the Rotary’s campaign to eradicate polio. Please continue to donate to the Polio Plus fund. We are almost in reach of our goal to eradicating polio

3. Turkey Legs are coming. From today’s meeting until Thanksgiving, our Happy Dollars will go to the Liberty Bank as donations to this fund

        REMINDERS OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

1. WORLD POLIO DAY – On October 24, 2018 we will celebrate the 30th anniversary for the eradication of polio campaign. Different countries will have announcements, parades and various media events. Let our members celebrate by donating to our Eradicate Polio Fund.

2. On November 4, our president-elect and membership chair will meet at Chuck's Steak House, 2199 Silas Deane Highway, Rocky Hill to discuss the recruitment of new members and retention of existing members with other clubs.

3. On November 1, there will be a Foundation Dinner honoring the unsung heroes who have devoted much of their time to helping others and who truly embody “service above self”. It will be held at CHEZ JOSEPH at 176 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam MA from 5:30 to 9: pm. Cost is $55 per person.

4. On November 10, John Smeallie and Andy Lerner will represent our club at the RLI leadership Training session at the Holiday Inn, Springfield South, Bright Meadow Boulevard in Enfield, CT, 06082.

5. Tavern night was held last October 4. 10 Rotarians enjoyed the ambience of the new Rockledge Grill. Thanks to Kyle for organizing this event.

6. It is again time for our Thanksgiving Turkey Drive. Our club has opened an account at Liberty Bank to deposit our donations. We are awaiting the donations to pour in.

Minutes

Luncheon Meeting, August 24

1. Our speaker was the Town of West Hartford Police Chief. He reported that the Town Safety Committee gave the Town a good report. The biggest problem seems to be complaints of indiscriminate urination from over-indulgers. He emphasized that the department needs to recruit more qualified people interested in becoming West Hartford Police officers. Members threw a lot of interesting questions at the Chief. He was very informative.

2. A great round of applause greeted Ann Leabman when she received the Club Honorary Membership. She emphasized the importance of the Jazz Brunch to Hap.

3. The Tavern night was postponed to October 4 at the Rockledge Grill from 5 to 7 pm

1. Jazz brunch is fast approaching.Tony has been reminding us to get out there and sell tickets.A decision will have to be made at the end of September as to whether or not to hold this event.This will depend on the tickets sold and donations received or pledged from sponsors.

1. Our district governor has asked the club to participate in hurricane relief due to loss of life and property in the Carolinas.A web site has been created where you can choose your way to donate:  http.//www.rotary 7680.org/disasterrelief.PHP

1. Supporting the Rotary Foundation is an important goal of any Rotary Club.The Foundation in return is the source of grants to make our projects, both domestic and international possible.Please contribute.

1. Dave Mangs gave us a talk about how the opioid epidemic is affecting the young generation of this country.It is up to every organization to work together to stop the spread of this epidemic.

Rotary Club of West Hartford Board Meeting Minutes

Date: August 24, 2018

Attendance: Eileen Rau, Tom Wood, Matt Cuddy, Bennett Forest, Oscar Santo Domingo

Approvals

1. Board approved budget for 2018-2019.

2. Board accepted the Marinduque North Rotary Club of the Philippines as a sister club for the purpose of join projects. Discussed was the possibility of a water project. This is still in the preliminary stage.

3. Approved a donation of $3,600 to the Children’s Museum of West Hartford. This is in addition to a District Grant the has been approved for $2,400.

Upcoming Events

1. Due to the efforts of Dave Mangs, Ashley Daley of UHart, Greg and Bennett, our Club was able to recruit 53 Rotaractors from the University of Hartford. A meeting will be organized to welcome these new members. A Board of Directors and committee chairs will be selected at that meeting. Please watch for that meeting and plan to attend and greet all of them.

2. Ann Leabman will be honored on September 17 meeting as an Honorary Member due to the time and effort she has spent in the service of Rotary.

1. Rotarian Bob Kiley was laid to rest last Saturday at the Fairview Cemetary after a service at Saint Peter Clavier in West Hartford.  Our club was well represented for the mass as well as the burial.
2. Rick Liftig and I met with the director of the Children’s museum to discuss the situation with the relocation of the museum after the two year dead line to turn the existing property over to Kingswood Oxford.  The possibility of the UCONN site was mentioned.  it was suggested that we approach the prospective buyer about reserving part of the property for a new facility for the museum.  It was also suggested that letters to the editor of the Hartford Courant promoting this idea would be helpful.  One of our projects for this year at the local level is to setting up a Rotary Lab at the museum.  We have a District Grant for this.
3. The mayor of West Hartford, Shari Cantor, informed the Club that the situation of the Children’s Museum getting a place to expand on the site of the old UCONN branch at the corner of Trout Brook and Asylum is not a sure thing. For one, the Town has no say on planning for the site after the zoning change has been approved.The only way forward is to approach the buyer and convince them to leave a part of the site free.  According to the Mayor this is a very long shot.
4. The high point of the meeting was the presentation of the Paul Harris Award to Ed Cape. He was presented with his pin and also addressed the meeting with stories of his experience as a member of Britain’s Royal Air Force. He also mentioned that he was instrumental in helping to promote the admission of women into the West Hartford Club.
5. Don’t forget TAVERN NIGHT, September 27.  Kyle is already canvassing restaurants.  We are trying to use a restaurant that has donated to our Vines of March fund raiser.
6. We are still looking for a chair person and his committee that will take charge of this year’s Vines of March to be held on March 9.Any brave souls out there?Please step up.
7. Peter Kovalevich passed around a signup sheet for Rotarians who will sell tickets for Jazz Brunch fund raising on November 4, 2018.

1. The jazz brunch has found two artists for this year’s program: guitarist Chris Flory and tenor saxophonist Harry Allen. We are still looking for a drummer and base player.
2. The ticket price for the event will continue at $85 per person. Starting August 13, the committee will be ready to offer tickets to fellow Rotarians.
3. Vines of March will be held on March 9, 2019, at Saint Joseph's University. We are still looking for a chair and committee members for this event.
4. The Town Council will hold a meeting with the proposed buyer for the UCONN campus at the corner of Asylum Avenue and Trout Brook. The proposed buyer will present a site plan at this meeting.We hold out the hope that a portion of this site will be reserved for the Children’s Museum of West Hartford. This museum has been an asset for the Town and our club has an approval for a project with the museum to sponsor a special room. Please plan to attend and make a plea for incorporating a space for the museum in the plan.

OUR ROTARY SUCCESS WITH THE POLIO PLUS CAMPAIGN