• Bennett Forrest discussed the upcoming 'Rotary Means Business' event which will be held on Nov 9th in Glastonbury.
• The club donated $8000 to Rotary clubs in the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico for Hurricane relief and received another $9400 in donations from Rotarians and West Hartford residents which was added to the donation.

• Rotary night at the Chamber of Council after hours - April 14th at 5:30pm at Farmington Bank in the Center.
• A Hand Up support / Storage room organization - 17 April
• District Assembly - 11 May
• Celebrate West Hartford - 4/5 June
• Installation Dinner - 21 June
• Lobsterfest - 25 June

WHAT IS THE ROTARY FOUNDATION’S ENDOWMENT FUND?

Connecticut’s Own Erin Brady, Miss USA 2013, visited the Rotary Club of West Hartford

Former Miss USA and Connecticut native Erin Brady addressed the Rotary Club of West Hartford on Monday, October 27.  As Miss USA, Erin Brady worked to educate others about the importance of empowering others through leadership.  She grew up in East Hampton and graduated from Central Connecticut State University with a degree in Finance and a minor in Criminal Justice.

Rotarian John Smeallie created a new video entitled 'SERVICE THROUGH FELLOWSHIP'.  It was shown at the Light up West Hartford with Rotary event.

WEST HARTFORD ROTARY SPOTLIGHT

(See more news on www.westhartfordrotary.org)

MINUTES FOR THE MEETING OF

September 29th, 2014 - 12:15 PM

The Pondhouse Cafe

Present: 28 Rotarians and 1 guest.

Mary Silverberg gave the invocation ‘a birthday with a purpose’ and then led the club in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Opening remarks:

1.Eileen Rau discussed the Rotary Foundation – this week was about Sustaining members.

2.– noted a Steve Crane video and recommended that all view it:   end Polio now

3.Larry Goodman – introduced himself and gave a brief bio

4.President Cindy – discussed the University of St Joseph / Grace Academy STEM project – they have raised $700 already, and need $300 more

5.Fernando Vidal –noted that the Liberty Bank food drive has started and that the board voted to donate $500 as well as all Happy Dollar donations

6.Prior President Hap Leabman – discussed the event on 6 October.  All tickets will benefit the club, as Pond House is covering the meals.  Tickets are $20 or $25 at the door.

7.– gave a recap of the Kinetic Sculpture Race, and noted that Cindy ran the Amber Alert booth and was able to sign up approximately 10 children despite significant technical difficulties.

Sergeant at Arms John Smeallie reports 28 Rotarians are present.  One guest was present:  Kara Sundlun, guest speaker. 

Happy dollars were collected.  The pot is up to $51 and nobody won this week.

Kara Sundlun from WFSB was the guest speaker and talked of about her career, her two most memorable days as a broadcaster, and her upcoming book.

The meeting was adjourned at 1:45, with Dave Lemkuil leading the 4-way test.  The next meeting is October 20th, 2014 at Pondhouse Cafe. 

Respectfully submitted,

Chad Licht, scribe

Larry Goodman giving his bio

Guest speaker Kara Sundlun from WFSB

Kara Sundlun with Rotarian Dave Lemkuil, speaker coordinator and Packer fan!

WHAT IS A ROTARY FOUNDATION SUSTAINING MEMBER?

 A Rotary Foundation Sustaining Member is an individual who personally contributes $100 or more each Rotary year to the Annual Fund. These contributions also count toward Paul Harris Fellow, Multiple Paul Harris Fellow, Paul Harris Society, Major Donor, and club recognition. After donating $100.00 per year for 10 Rotary years, he/she becomes a Paul Harris Fellow. We have 23 Rotary Foundation Sustaining Members in our Club. Won't you become a Sustaining Member?

The Rotary Foundation Awards $33,000 Global Grant for the American School for the Deaf

Recently, the Club received word that our Global Grant application to provide a Visual Media Studio for the American School for the Deaf, in West Hartford, was approved. Our Club partnered with the Rotary Club of St. Thomas, U.S.V.I., and both our respective Districts, 7890 and 7020, to fund this Grant. The Rotary Foundation matched club and district contributions to bring the total grant amount to $33,000. The grant provides for the studio equipment and wiring, as well as curriculum materials and professional development of staff. Visual learning is a key component of teaching hearing impaired students, and this studio will open new avenues of education to them. It will also provide training that students can use when they later enter the work force. Work will begin soon, and Club members interested in working on the project should contact Cindy Lang or Don Chandler. All of the funds came from contributions of Rotarians, and this shows how our donations can ultimately enable projects right here at home.

WEST HARTFORD ROTARY SPOTLIGHT

(See more news on www.westhartfordrotary.org)

MINUTES FOR THE MEETING OF

September 15th, 2014 - 12:15 PM

The Pondhouse Cafe

Present: 28 Great Rotarians and 1 guest.

David Gerrol gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Club President’s opening remarks:

1.Eileen Rau discussed the Rotary Foundation and focused on the two types of grants, District and Global.

2.- discussed the Rotary Leadership Institute coming up on November 8^th in Chicopee, MA.

3.Don Chandler reported that we received the Global Grant for $33K for the Video Media studio at ASD.  He noted the power of grants, as we leveraged a WH Rotary donation of $4K up to the $33K value.

4.Past President Hap – We are co-sponsors with the Farmington Club of the Kinetic Sculpture event to be held at Winding Trails on 21 Sept. 

5.– discussed the upcoming Light Up West Hartford Rotary event on October 6^th.  Money is needed by the 29^th – either bring a check or pay on line.

6.Bennett Forrest - discussed the West Hartford Rotary book drive and gave a live demonstration of a donation.

Sergeant at Arms John Smeallie reports 28 Rotarians are present.  One guest was present: guest speaker Pauline Weissman.  He noted that we will be videotaping the meeting on the 22^nd of September.

Happy dollars were collected.  The pot was up to $233, and David Mangs picked the winning card!  Congratulations Dave!

Guest speaker Pauline Weissman, a nutritionist, gave an interesting presentation on healthy eating and offered up several simple suggestions for improving your diet.

The meeting was adjourned at 1:30, with Oscar Santo Domingo leading the 4-way test.  The next meeting is September 22nd, 2014 at Pondhouse Cafe. 

Respectfully submitted,

Chad Licht, scribe

              Dave Lemkuil with guest speaker Ronnie Newton

Past President Hap and President Cindy with new member Larry Goodman

Past District Governor Eileen Rau presents Hartford Rotarian Judith Green with her Paul Harris +3 pin

Hap giving the $750 co-sponsor check for the 9/21 Kinetic Sculpture Race at Winding Trails to Rick Flagg who is organizing this 1st Race. 

Rick Flagg explains the 9/21 event to the club at the 9-8 meeting

Guest speaker Joe Scata of the CT department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security​

The Rotary golf tournament



President Cindy and prior Presidents Hap and Dana at the Elizabeth Park service project

WEST HARTFORD ROTARY SPOTLIGHT

(See more news on www.westhartfordrotary.org)

MINUTES FOR THE MEETING OF

August 11th, 2014 - 12:15 PM

The Pondhouse Cafe

Present: 24 Great Rotarians and 2 guests.

Club President’s opening remarks:

1.Eileen Rau discussed the Rotary Foundation – this week was about the two types of grants.

2.Dana Gordon – presented Harry Davidson with the honorary ‘pink ball’ for a “notable” performance on the golf course during last week’s event.

3.Harry Davidson – gave a ‘brief’ recap of the golf event a week prior.

4.Kyle Brewer – discussed the most recent ‘A Hand Up’ event.  Due to the short notice, only Kyle and some friends were able to attend the successful event.

5.President Cindy also noted that the bench project will be starting soon, and that she will be submitting a survey to the club shortly.

6.Prior President Hap Leabman – discussed the event on 6 October.  All tickets will benefit the club, as Pond House is covering the meals. 

Treasurer Todd Bower reports 24 Rotarians are present.  Two guests were present:  Alana Blum, guest speaker; and Ria Van Hoof, spouse of Dana Gordon.

Happy dollars were collected.  The pot is up to $180 and nobody won this week.

Alana Blum gave a presentation on the Hartford Jewish Coalition for Literacy’s efforts in the Greater Hartford area.   Eileen discussed her rewarding experience volunteering with the group.

The meeting was adjourned at 1:23, with Oscar leading the 4-way test.  The next meeting is August 18th, 2014 at Pondhouse Cafe. 

Respectfully submitted,

Chad Licht, scribe

WHAT IS THE GOAL OF ROTARY FOUNDATION GRANTS?

“Doing good in the world.” This is achieved via two programs categories of The Rotary Foundation.

 District Grants– allow up to 25% of funding given three years ago through Annual Fund –SHARE to do projects that fall within the mission. Almost any type of project can be done and local clubs work with their districts to figure out what projects and activities are nearest and dearest to their hearts.

 Global Grants- fund sustainable and measurable scholarships, humanitarian grants and vocational training teams in the Rotary Foundation’s six areas of focus.

Our club participated in a District Grant last year that helped fund the dictionary project. This year we are working on a Global Grant with the American School for the Deaf as the beneficiary.

Thank you for your support of the Rotary Foundation.

Birthdays

Kove Schwartz             Sep 01

Edward Cape               Sep 11

Bruce Stanger             Sep 11

Michael Howard           Sep 12

Harry Davidson            Sep 18

Kelly Kennedy             Sep 25

Mary Silverberg            Sep 29

Dr. Robert Claflin          Sep 30

Wedding Anniversaries

Dana Gordon (Ria)   Sep 01 (23 yrs)

Bennett Forrest (Debra)  Sep 03 (9 yrs)

David Gerrol (Lisa)   Sep 08 (3 yrs)

Robert Kor (Emily)   Sep 09 (22 yrs)

Kelly Kennedy (Bobby)    Sep 18 (10 yrs)

Club Anniversaries

Kove Schwartz  Sep 13, 2010 - 4 years

Susan Chandler    Sep 28, 2013  - 1 year

WEST HARTFORD ROTARY SPOTLIGHT

(See more news on www.westhartfordrotary.org)

MINUTES FOR THE MEETING OF

August 4, 2014- 12:15 PM

The Pondhouse Cafe

Present: 15 Great Rotarians; 1 visiting Rotarians and 1 guest.

Bob Kiely gave the invocation with thoughts of servicemen and women, particularly in light of the upcoming August 6 anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. He led the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. During lunch, Cindy began the meeting with announcements, starting with:

1. Rotarian Keith Harris of Merrimac, MA, will pass through Massachusetts during the week of August 10 in the midst of his 4400-mile cross country trek from Seattle.  During stops in Pittsfield, Westfield, Northampton, West Springfield, and Springfield, he will address the topics of bicycle safety, his journey, and the works of Rotary International.  Cindy e-mailed Club members with the related information prior to the meeting; please note that some of the stops do require pre-registration/reservations.

2.Our club will participate in an Elizabeth Park Clean-up Volunteer Endeavor on August 23 from 9:00 a.m. until noon.  Please sign up.

3.We are still working on the bench project and Cindy will report back with progress.

4.Reminder:  we are collaborative partners with the Farmington Club on the Kinetic Sculpture event to be held at Winding Trails September 21. There are volunteer opportunities – see Hap if you are interested!

5.Hap is also the contact for the October 6 Rotary Showcase at Pond House Café in West Hartford; it’s shaping up beautifully!

Sergeant-at-Arms John Smeallie reports 15 Rotarians, one visiting Rotarian and one guest are present.  Guests and visitors are: speaker and Rotarian Dave Johnston as well as guest Gary Valenti.

Anniversaries this week include wedding anniversaries for Kyle and Brittney Egress and Dave and Gail Mangs; Elizabeth Horyn marks her seventh anniversary as a Rotarian.

Happy dollars were collected from Susan Chandler, Hap Leabman, Cindy Lang, Dave Mangs, Dave Johnston, Oscar Santo Domingo and Todd Bower.

The 50/50 raffle is up to $170, with no winner today.  We are looking for the Jack of Clubs.

David Johnston, director of the Center for Higher Education Retention Excellence (CHERE), shared his organization’s mission to improve policies and practices that lead to higher college retention, graduation and employment for underrepresented, first-generation, and otherwise challenged students.  CHERE is a program of the Hartford Consortium for Higher Education, providing a forum for educators to discuss critical issues, conduct applied research and publish results, and advocate on behalf of at-risk students.  David discussed the importance for students of connecting with a significant adult, visualizing a purpose for their educations, and “seamless counseling” on everything from finances to paperwork to roommate conflicts as factors in retention.

The meeting was adjourned at 1:35 p.m., with Oscar leading the 4-way test.  The next meeting is August 11, 2014 at the Pond House Café.   

Respectfully submitted,

Christine M. Looby

Scribe 

WEST HARTFORD ROTARY SPOTLIGHT

(See more news on www.westhartfordrotary.org)

MINUTES FOR THE MEETING OF

July 21st, 2014 - 12:15 PM

The Pondhouse Cafe

Present: 29 Great Rotarians and 3 guests.

Polly Hincks gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Club President’s opening remarks:

1.Eileen Rau discussed the Rotary Foundation and noted that we will be hearing more about it in the weeks to come.

2.Past President Hap Leabman – presented a pin to President Cindy for her efforts in recruiting a new member.  Said new member, John Smealie, pinned Cindy.

3.President Cindy  – passed around the new ‘Light up Rotary’ lapel pins

4.– discussed an upcoming service project at Elizabeth Park – in August TBD

5.– formally removed Kyle Brewer’s new member ribbon in recognition of his efforts to the club, including leading the ‘A Hand Up’ service project.

6.Harry Davidson – discussed the district golf outing, to be held on August 4^th.

7.Kyle Egress – gave a summary of Lobsterfest, noting that we received $8200 in sponsorships and made a profit of ~$10,000.  He reminded all that attendance is key to profitability, as there are significant fixed cost to cover.  Cindy noted that we will do more promotion for LF 2015.

8.Don Chandler discussed an upcoming fellowship survey.  If you have ideas for events, let Don know!

Sergeant at Arms John Smealie reports 29 Rotarians are present.  Three guests were present:  John Foxx, a candidate for Connecticut State Senate District 7 and guest of David Gerrol; Dave Walker, a candidate for Lt. Governor, and Capt. Lawrence Goodman of the Salvation Army.

There was no guest speaker this week and a club assembly was held instead.  Hap presented three main topics:

1. He is refreshing the New Member Committee and passed around a signup list
2. There will be an event at Pond House on Monday, October 6^th (in lieu of normal meeting).  This will be an event for people who want to learn about Rotary.  We will give 6-8 presentations on the things we do.
3. We are co-sponsors with the Farmington Club of the Kinetic Sculpture event to be held at Winding Trails on 21 Sept.  There are volunteer opportunities – see Hap if you are interested!

The meeting was adjourned at 1:30, with Cindy leading the 4-way test.  The next meeting is July 28th, 2014 at Pondhouse Cafe. 

Respectfully submitted,

Chad Licht, scribe

John pinning President Cindy with the new recruiting pin

Here's the Rotary Foundation Minute for this week:

 WHAT IS THE ROTARY FOUNDATION? The Rotary Foundation is the charitable arm of Rotary. It is a non-profit that is supported solely by voluntary contributions from Rotarians and friends of The Rotary Foundation who share its vision of a better world.   Its sole mission is to support the efforts of Rotarians through Rotary’s mission, and the achievement of world understanding and peace through local, national and international humanitarian and educational programs in your back yard and around the globe.

OVER THE NEXT YEAR, I WILL COME TO YOU WITH A SHORT WEEKLY MESSAGE ABOUT THE ROTARY FOUNDATION, ITS PROGRAMS AND THE NEED FOR YOUR SUPPORT. TODAY I HAVE A QUOTE FROM PAULO COSTA, PAST PRESIDENT OF ROTARY INTERNATIONAL, 1990-1991. “Rotary International’s masterpiece is The Rotary Foundation. It transforms our dreams into splendid realities . . . it is the most generous expression of Rotarian generosity - a generosity that not only brings benefits but also brings help and cooperation to solve the problems that affect mankind. The Rotary Foundation achieves the best that mankind can possibly achieve.”

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT OF THE ROTARY FOUNDATION AND ITS WORK.

WEST HARTFORD ROTARY SPOTLIGHT

(See more news on www.westhartfordrotary.org)

MINUTES FOR THE MEETING OF

June 16th, 2014 - 12:15 PM

The Pondhouse Cafe

Present: 29 Great Rotarians and 1 guests.

Mary Silverberg gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Club President’s opening remarks:

1.Hap noted that billings are behind and that we are working to catch up.  After the next billing, we will switch to a system based on Club Runner, so the appearance of the bills will change.

2.– noted that we are instituting a New Member Orientation program as well as a mentoring program.  It is intended primarily – but not exclusively - for members with less than two years in the club.

3.– stated that we will be conducting a survey of club members in the near future

4.– discussed an initiative to increase our communications, especially external, to ‘get the Rotary message out.’  He intends to lead this effort personally. 

5.– talked about our October event at Pond House.  They are sponsoring the event and providing food and a cash bar – tickets will be ~ $20 and Pond House will help sell them.

6.– reviewed several thank you letters; from West Hartford Community TV, Conard HS for a Safe Grad donation, and both Conard and Hall scholarship recipients.

7.-  displayed a large cardboard check which he presented to Park Road Playhouse.

8.Donna Griffin – thanked all for the support for Celebrate West Hartford, and announced that we netted $4918 this year, helped by ASD buying back unused meat.

9.Eileen Rau – reminded all that time is running out for the 2014 Foundation giving period – it expires at the end of June. 

10.– Discussed ‘Zones’.  Our club is in district 7890 and is one of 20 districts in Zone 32, and includes New England, Bermuda, and Quebec.  Zones have several coordinators with several assistants in a variety of functional areas (Foundation, End Polio Now, Public Image, Rotary Coordinator, and Endowment / Major Gift Advisor).  Zones have several training events and Eileen, and Don and Susan Chandler will be participating in the fall.

11.Cindy Lang – announced that the NICU golf tournament raised $12K, and that there will be a fall fundraiser.

12.Kyle Egress – noted that Lobster fest is less than a week away and pushed us to sell tickets and / or sponsorships. 

13.– The order for steak and lobster will be placed on June 16^th, so he will need a good handle on ticket sales by then.

14.– Help is needed with the event – Friday setup, Saturday at the event, and Sunday cleanup. Contact Kyle if you can help!

Sergeant at Arms Todd Bower reports 29 Rotarians are present.  One guests was present:  Eric Powers, a guest of Don.

Happy dollars were collected. The pot is up to $128 but no one drew the winning card.   

The meeting was adjourned at 1:30, with Hap leading the 4-way test.  The next meeting is July 7th, 2014 at Pondhouse Cafe.      

Respectfully submitted,

Chad Licht, scribe

The Farmington 40th Anniversary photos was taken on 6/12 at Farmington Gardens.  The photo shows six West Hartford Rotarians and spouses Betty Kiely and Bob Rau who came to support the Farmington Club.


Pictured in the Celebrate W.H. photo are Dave Mangs, President Hap and Rich Marone working hard on Saturday

Our annual Installation Dinner will take place at the Pond House on Monday, June 30 from 6:15-9 pm.  You are invited along with your spouse, significant other or friend.  This will be a fun evening of Rotary fellowship and celebration! 

The cost is $38 for guests and Rotarians under the "rule of 85".  If you get billed for lunch, you will pay $25 as this serves as a lunch credit.  Please bring a check for your dinner and your guest(s).

To make your reservation, please click on this link http://bit.ly/1nvYjG7 or go to our club website. 

Cynthia Lang
Rotary Club of West Hartford

l-r:  Mecheal Hamilton, President-Elect, Farmington Rotary; Todd Bard, EVV Girl Foundation; Matthew Vendetti, President, Farmington Rotary; Greg Latz, CCMC Foundation.  This is an example of a club donation for one camera.  Our club will be following suit soon!


Bob Rau and his golf team from the NICU tournament on 6/9

Eileen Rau and Event organizer, Elaine Pavasaris modeling "End Polio Now" tee-shirts.

Hap, Don Chandler, Judith Green (Hartford Rotarian), Bob Rau, Sue Chandler and Cindy Lang... Just a few of the W.H. group.

Cindy with Rocky

WEST HARTFORD ROTARY SPOTLIGHT

(See more news on www.westhartfordrotary.org)

MINUTES FOR THE MEETING OF

June 2nd, 2014 - 12:15 PM

The Pondhouse Cafe

Present: 29 Great Rotarians and 5 guests.

Bob Stafford gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Club President's opening remarks:

1.DG Mike Barnett presented our club with TWO awards; the Rotary Club Central Award, and the Presidential Citation with Distinction.

2.Eileen Rau - reported that the Annual Fund drive is up to $7057 – short of the $10,000 target.  All donations for this year are due by 30 June!

3.– thanked those who marched in the Memorial Day parade.

4.– two golfers are needed to complete a foursome for the NICU golf tournament on 9 June

5.Kyle Egress – noted that Lobster fest is only1 days away and pushed us to sell tickets and / or sponsorships.  He noted that we have $7000 in fixed expenses, so the more tickets we sell, the more we benefit.

6.– The order for steak and lobster will be placed on June 16^th, so he will need a good handle on tickets by then

7.– Help is needed with the event – Friday setup, Saturday at the event, and Sunday cleanup.

8.Donna Griffen – discussed Celebrate West Hartford and noted we need help, especially Sat lunch and Sunday pm.

9.President Hap – we are in need of storage space for club materials – we are losing our space at ASD.  We need approximately one garage bay of space.

10.Mecheal Hamilton from the Farmington Club discussed the upcoming Dinner (Thursday June 12th) at the Farmington Gardens for the 40^th anniversary of the Farmington Club.

Sergeant at Arms Todd Bower reports 29 Rotarians are present.  Five guests were present:  Speaker Jolly Lux; Mecheal Hamilton and Steve Wasely from the Farmington club; Todd Moore, incoming WHPS Superintendant and guest of Dr. List; and DG Mike Barnett.

Happy dollars were collected. The pot is up to $118 but no one drew the winning card.   

Jolly Lux was guest speaker and she discussed her Guiding Light Orphanage in Uganda and played a video highlighting the work of the organization.  The Guiding Light Orphanage, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing support to HIV/AIDS orphans and critically vulnerable children in rural Uganda in the District of Masindi.  These children will receive free, basic health care, quality education, and the knowledge and skills to promote self-sustainability with the goal of breaking the vicious cycle of chronic hunger and poverty. 

The meeting was adjourned at 1:45, with Hap leading the 4-way test.  The next meeting is June 16th, 2014 at Pondhouse Cafe. 

Respectfully submitted,

Chad Licht


President Hap receiving the RI Presidential Citation from DG Mike Barnett


Jolly Lux of Avon/Canton Rotary presenting information about her project, Guiding Light Orphanage in Uganda

WEST HARTFORD ROTARY SPOTLIGHT

(See more news on www.westhartfordrotary.org)

MINUTES FOR THE MEETING OF

May 19th, 2014 - 12:15 PM

The Pondhouse Cafe

Present: 31 Great Rotarians and 3 guests.

Cindy Lang gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Club Presidents opening remarks:

1.Eileen Rau:  Presented Kyle Egress with the Paul Harris Fellowship.

2.- reported that the Annual Fund drive is up to $6887 – short of the $10,000 target.  All donations for this year are due by 30 June!

3.- Memorial Day parade - gathering point information to follow via e-mail.  No sign up – just show up!  Wear Rotary shirt with khaki-ish pants / shorts / skirt  etc.

4.Kyle Egress – the newest Paul Harris Fellow noted that Lobster fest is only 33 days away and pushed us to sell tickets and / or sponsorships.  We only have two more meetings before the event.

5.Donna – discussed Celebrate West Hartford and noted we need help, especially Sat lunch and Sunday pm.

6.President Hap – we are in need of storage space for club materials – we are losing our space at ASD.  We need approximately one garage bay of space.

7.Cindy Lang – reviewed recent Rotary press articles

8.– Noted that the NICU web golf tournament is the 9^th of June

9.-  Discussed the recent District Meeting.  John Smeallie discussed a session that he attended on social media, and how clubs are using more videos – suggested that we create a YouTube channel.

10.Oscar Santo-Domingo discussed the Cruise on 20 July – sign up now!

Sergeant at Arms Todd Bower reports 31 Rotarians are present.  Three guests were present:  Speaker Mayor Joe LaRosa; Mark Pappalardo, a guest of Cindy, and Sarah Bourdeau, a guest of Kyle.

Happy dollars were collected. The pot is up to $103 but no one drew the winning card.  Ed Peltier won the drawing for a CD from ‘Simply Swing’.

Joe LaRosa was guest speaker and he discussed ‘Simply Swing’, a 10-piece Swing orchestra.  They are paired up with Farmington Savings Bank and will play a series of free concerts around Hartford throughout the summer and early fall.   http://www.simplyswingmusic.com/

The meeting was adjourned at 1:40, with Oscar leading the 4-way test.  The next meeting is June 2nd, 2014 at Pondhouse Cafe.  


Kyle Egress receiving Paul Harris Fellowship from President Hap and Eileen Rau
                     Joe LaRosa from Simply Swing

Links for the registration form as well as a sponsorship form are below:

Registration Form

Sponsor Form
 

Noah Webster and a team of Rotarians was on hand at Braeburn Elementary on Tuesday the 20th to hand out dictionaries to 3rd graders.

Dana Gordon, Dictionary Project Director, and Noah Webster with the children

And another group presented dictionaries with Noah and Dana on Thursday the 22nd at Smith School

Please check out this youtube link: 

Webcams in NICU: http://youtu.be/zj9MtdY4eD4

This originally aired on NBC Channel 30 on May 9.



Cynthia Lang
Rotary Club of West Hartford

Thursday, June 12, 2014

Rotary Club of Farmington

Annual Dinner

and 

40th Anniversary Celebration  

Farmington Gardens 

999 Farmington Ave Farmington CT

President Hap exchanging banners with Dan Bahadur Chand Thakuri, a visiting Rotarian club president from Katmandu, Nepal.

President Hap, Dan Bahadur Chand Thakuri, CL&P speakers, and Oscar Santo Domingo

WEST HARTFORD ROTARY SPOTLIGHT

(See more news on www.westhartfordrotary.org)

MINUTES FOR THE MEETING OF

May 5th, 2014 - 12:15 PM

The Pondhouse Cafe

Present: 27 Great Rotarians; 2 visiting Rotarians, and 1 guest.

Bob Kiley gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Club Presidents opening remarks during the unusual ‘chicken’ meal:

1.Hap presented Eileen Rau with a new pin for recruiting a new member.  If you have recruited new members in the recent past, contact Donna.

2.Kyle Egress reminded everyone that only 47 days remain until Lobster Fest, and encouraged all to sell tickets!    Please contact Kyle if you need tickets, and sponsorships are also needed! 

3.Donna noted that Celebrate West Hartford is coming up quickly (only 32 days from today) and passed a volunteer list around.  There are several additional challenges this year that the team is working.

4.Cindy Lang discussed the ‘NICView’ project that is being worked with four other clubs.  Don, Eileen, and Cindy attended the launch is on 4/29 at Farmington Gardens.  There is a fund raising golf tournament planned for June 9^th and golfers are needed.  Sponsorships for tee signs and GPS links are also available.

5.Eileen Rau reported that the Annual Fund drive is up to $6507 – achieving the club target, though with a gap to the $10,000 target.

6.Don Chandler discussed the planned river cruise.  Oscar Santo Domingo coordinated the event and it will happen on Jul 20^th – noon at the Charter Oak Landing.  A minimum of 20 are needed.

7.The Farmington Rotary Club will be celebrating its 40th Anniversary on 6/12/14 at Farmington Gardens with a dinner event.  All are invited to attend this celebration, and there will likely be no meeting that week due to proximity to Celebrate West Hartford.

8.Hap noted that the Pond House is celebrating its 15 year anniversary and is offering us their services for a fund raising event.   They will provide the food and staff for a fixed charge and all proceeds will go to the club.  The date is TBD, but the initial thought is October.

Sergeant at Arms Todd Bower reports 27 Rotarians are present, with two visiting Rotarians, Hank and Ernestina Shay from Livermore, CA.  One guest was present:  Speaker Bob Greismer.

Happy dollars were collected. The pot is up to $77 but no one drew the winning card.  

Bob Greismer was guest speaker and discussed the challenges faced by the Science Center of CT and its future.  Through hard work, they have paid off debts and actually turned a profit, and have managed to extend their lease with KO through June 2017.  They are busy searching for a new facility and plan to remain in West Hartford.

The meeting was adjourned at 1:35, with Hap leading the 4-way test.  The next meeting is May 12th, 2014 at Pondhouse Cafe. 

Respectfully submitted,

Chad Licht, scribe

Ron Garcia, teacher at Kingswood Oxford spoke about the student service project trip to Paraguay

• Salin Low of Avon-Canton;

• Steve Vaughn of Hartford;

• Ed Silverstein of Newington;

• Cynthia Lang of West Hartford; and

• Gina Herboldt of Wethersfield.

A group of Rotarians met in the cosy basement of Sedgwick Cleaners on Sunday morning to put book plates in dictionaries.  The team was led by former President Dana Gordon and was he was joined by Rotarians Don Chandler, President Hap, Chad Licht, Booker DeVaughn Jr, and his wife Elena.  The team made short work of the stack of dictionaries and Dana will soon be announcing the dates for deliveries to West Hartford 3rd graders.

The assembly line - Dana, Don, Booker, Elena, and President Hap

                Dana and the results of the morning's labor

At the A Hand Up fund raiser at the Hooker Brewery, President Hap presented a donation from the 2013-2014 Service Chest of $500 to Michael Fishman, President of A Hand Up. Last week Rotarians Kyle Brewer and Chad Licht volunteered their time and energy to A Hand Up to deliver furniture to a single mother and her daughter in their new apartment in Bristol.

    President Hap presents a check to A Hand Up president Michael Fishman

Rotarians, please RSVP to Micheal Hamilton by clicking the link in this invitation/announcement.  The lunch meal is "beef" and there is a vegetarian option.  If you have any questions or difficulties, please let me know.  Cindy Lang, 860-794-4490 or cynthialang@sbcglobal.net.   Many thanks for your support. 

Area 9 President-elects

and club members

You are invited to attend

RSVP Here  

NicView Webcam Project

Launch Meeting

Tuesday

April 29, 2014

Noon-2pm

Hosted by: 

Rotary Club of Farmington

Farmington Gardens,

999 Farmington Ave, Farmington CT

The launch will be conducted as regular

Rotary club meeting with lunch ($15/person)

and eligible as a make-up. 

Your RSVP is greatly appreciated.

RSVP Here 

Birthdays

Rick Liftig   Jul 04

Peter Kovalevich  Jul 15

Elizabeth Basil   Jul 19

Joseph Bednarz   Jul 22

Todd Bower   Jul 23

Wedding Anniversaries

Michael Howard (Cindy)  Jul 14

James Ruel (Abiah)  Jul 22

Club Anniversaries

Hap Leabman     Jul 1, 2007 - 7 years

Don Chandler     Jul 2, 2012  - 2 years

Forrest Bennett  Jul 2, 2012 - 2 years

WEST HARTFORD ROTARY SPOTLIGHT

(See more news on www.westhartfordrotary.org)

MINUTES FOR THE MEETING OF

April 21st, 2014 - 12:15 PM

The Pondhouse Cafe

Present: 27 Great Rotarians; 1 visiting Rotarian, and 3 guests.

Booker Washington gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Club Presidents opening remarks:

1.     Hap discussed the District Assembly on May 12th which is an evening event. Guest speaker will be Ed Futa.   Hap encouraged attendance, noting that there are several key sessions.

2.     Cindy Lang discussed the ‘NICView’ project that is being worked with four other clubs.  This project places webcams in NICU bassinets, allowing parents and other family and friends to view babies in the NICU via a password-protected website.  A launch is planned on 4/29 at Farmington Gardens from noon to 2pm.

3.     Eileen Rau reported that the Annual Fund drive is up to $6407 – 98% of the club target, though with a gap to the $10,000 target.

4.     The Farmington Rotary Club will be celebrating its 40th Anniversary on 6/12/14 at Farmington Gardens.  All are invited to attend this celebration. West Hartford Rotary Club sponsored the Farmington Club.

5.     Don Chandler discussed the status of his grant application for the AV facility at ASD.  He received comments back, but only one page.  He is working to answer them.

6.     Kyle Egress reminded everyone that only 61 days remain until Lobster Fest, and encouraged all to sell tickets!    Help is also needed with brochures. 

7.     DG Eileen presented Joe Stafford with his Paul Harris Fellowship (+1).

Sergeant at Arms Todd Bower reports 27 Rotarians are present, with one visiting Rotarian, Eric Powers from the Enfield Club.  Three guests were present:  Speaker Mayor Scott Slifka; Dawn Hardin, a guest of Cindy, and Theresia Oberst, a guest of Shari Cantor.

Happy dollars were collected. The pot is up to $57 but no one drew the winning card.  

Mayor Scott Slifka was guest speaker and his talk focused on the historic levels of development going on in town at this time.   A new boutique hotel across from the police station and a 200+ luxury apartment complex on Steele Road are two of the current developments under consideration.

The meeting was adjourned at 1:40, with Hap leading the 4-way test.  The next meeting is April 28th, 2014 at Pondhouse Cafe. 

Respectfully submitted,

Chad Licht, scribe

WEST HARTFORD ROTARY SPOTLIGHT

(See more news on www.westhartfordrotary.org)

MINUTES FOR THE MEETING OF

April 14th, 2014 - 12:15 PM

The Pondhouse Cafe

Present: 22 Great Rotarians; 1 visiting Rotarian, and no guests.

Bob Kiley gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Club Presidents opening remarks:

1.     President Hap reviewed today’s agenda. Presenters for this Club Assembly were Eileen Rau and Don Chandler.

2.     Hap announced the District Assembly date: May 12th which is an evening event. Guest speaker will be Ed Futa.

3.     The Farmington Rotary Club will be celebrating its 40th Anniversary on 6/12/14. All are invited to attend this celebration. West Hartford Rotary Club sponsored the Farmington Club.

Sergeant at Arms Todd Bower reports 22 Rotarians are present, with one visiting Rotarian, Jolly Lux from the Avon Club. 

Happy dollars were collected. Cindy Lang and Kyle Brewer got a chance at the winning $45 but unfortunately did not draw the lucky card.  

Eileen Rau discussed Rotary’s Strategic Plan and plans for future growth and success. Our core values of service, fellowship, diversity, integrity and leadership came from a Focus Group when the Strategic Plan was developed. She also discussed our need to keep membership alive and members engaged. Worldwide membership remains stagnant at 1.2m despite the fact that we install new members every day.

Eileen also discussed the Rotary Foundation. A video was shown of the impact The Foundation had on the school system in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina and vocational training for women in India that highlighted their path to financial independence and a hope of ending poverty. These were only two of hundreds of projects supported by the Foundation.

Dave Mangs was presented with his 6th Paul Harris by PDD Eileen. Dave also presented a $250 check for Polio Plus.

Don Chandler did a presentation on how to log onto and navigate through Rotary.org. He also distributed a “cheat sheet” of step by step instructions on how to get onto the website. 

Kyle Brewer asked for 4 volunteers for the May 4th “A Hand Up” project. He is estimating that this will be a 2-hour project for either picking up furniture or a move-in.

The meeting was adjourned at 1:35, with Hap leading the 4-way test.  The next meeting is April 21st, 2014 at Pondhouse Cafe. 

Respectfully submitted,

 Susan Chandler, scribe

WEST HARTFORD ROTARY SPOTLIGHT

(See more news on www.westhartfordrotary.org)

MINUTES FOR THE MEETING OF

April 7th, 2014 - 12:15 PM

The Pondhouse Cafe

Present: 22 Great Rotarians; 0 visiting Rotarians and 1 guest.

Club Presidents opening remarks:

1.     The District Conference coming up at the end of April – attendance is encouraged!

2.     Discussed the successful Jazz Brunch on April 6^th.

3.     The Farmington Rotary Club 40th Birthday will be on June 12th at Farmington Gardens

4.     The meeting on the 14^th will be a club assembly.  Don Chandler will be demonstrating web sites.

5.     Eileen Rau discussed the Annual campaign – you can give online or bring a check.  Note we are tracking the progress in the weekly bulletin.

6.     Kyle Egress talked up Lobster Fest 2014 – it will be June 21^st on the ASD campus.  A band has been located, and he encouraged us to push attendance, so start reaching out to friends, family, and coworkers to sell tickets!

Sergeant at Arms Todd Bower reports 22 Rotarians are present, with no visiting Rotarians and one guest, John Smeallie.  Dr. Robert Claflin is celebrating 30 years as a Rotarian.

The scheduled speaker had to cancel. 

John Smeallie was inducted as a new member of the club – welcome John!

The meeting was adjourned at 1:30, with Hap leading the 4-way test.  The next meeting is April 14th, 2014 at Pondhouse Cafe. 

Respectfully submitted,

 Kyle Brewer, scribe

MINUTES FOR THE MEETING OF

March 31st, 2014 - 12:15 PM

The Pondhouse Cafe

Present: 27 Great Rotarians; 0 visiting Rotarians and 3 guests.

On a slippery, snowy March 31^st, Cindy gave the invocation with thoughts of “the meaning of the Four Way Test”, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.  Due to the needs of the guest speakers, the meeting was held in reverse (and finished at 1:20…), but the notes will be presented in ‘normal’ order:

Club President's opening remarks:

1.     Kyle Brewer discussed his contact with the organization ‘A Hand Up’, which provides furnishings for recently homeless who are placed into empty apartments.   He discussed the possibility of making this a service project, with quarterly events requiring 4-5 people envisioned – the volunteers would be moving furnishings into one or two apartments.  There may also be drives for furnishings.

2.     The District Conference coming up at the end of April – attendance is encouraged!

3.     Passed around a thank you card from HANOC

4.     Noted that West Hartford Press is celebrating volunteers in April and Dana Gordon was one of the volunteers featured.  He also noted that Dana will be leading the Dictionary Project again this year.

5.     Discussed the upcoming Jazz Brunch on April 6^th – see him if you are interested in attending.  There are still a few seats left.

6.     The meeting on the 14^th will be a club assembly.

7.     Eileen Rau discussed the Annual campaign – you can give online or bring a check.  Note we are tracking the progress in the weekly bulletin.

8.     Don Chandler discussed the upcoming District Conference (25-27 April in Portsmouth, NH) – registration is required by 1 April.  He also noted that we are sharing a hospitality suite with clubs from Manchester and East Hartford.

9.     Don also announced that he was one signature away from finalizing a new project to set up a new audio/visual studio at ASD.  Our club will donate $4K and he secured a $33K grant.  Don thanks Ed Pelletier and the staff at ASD for helping significantly with the application.

10.  Kyle Egress talked up Lobster Fest 2014 – it will be June 21^st on the ASD campus.  A band has been located, and he encouraged us to push attendance, noting that Glastonbury’s event is a significant draw.  He also noted that our profit is driven by attendance.

11.  Kyle also passed out order sheets from Vines of March should anyone be interested.  He encouraged all to support Steve Leon and Wines Cellars 4, since his support makes the Vines event possible.

Sergeant at Arms Todd Bower reports 27 Rotarians are present, with no visiting Rotarians and three guests: the two guest speakers Brendan Fox and Liam Sweeney from MDC and one guest of Cindy, John Smeallie.  There were two anniversaries – the Chandlers, and Eileen Rau.  Coincidentally (???), both Don and Eileen had the winning tickets for the weekly drawing, though neither won.   The 50/50 raffle is up to $32 with no winner today. 

Brendan Fox and Liam Sweeney from MDC were the guest speakers and gave a presentation on the MDC, the Clean Wateron teh y from MDC were the guest speakers and  Project, and your water bill.  Briefly, the MDC has three reservoirs with 42 BILLION gallons of water, plus various other facilities, and they supply nearly 50 million gallons of drinking water and process over 100 million gallons of waste each day (more during wet weather).  Due to various issues, they are spending over $2.1B over the next two decades to increase waste water processing capacity and split the storm sewers from the sanitary sewers in Hartford.

Members of the MDC pay three items on their bill – a water usage charge (currently $2.53 per 100 cubic feet of water), a customer charge of ~$40, and a special sewer charge to cover the $2.1B upgrade – currently $2.90 per CCF of water used but projected to increase to $4.50 to service the bonds for the project (this charge will end in 20 years or so when the project is completed).  Non-members pay an additional fee to cover costs associated with supplying them, but a recent proposed increase has led them to have the state consider a bill (332) which would make the surcharge illegal.  (thus, allowing them to get service without paying for infrastructure or any risk…)

The meeting was adjourned at 1:20, with Hap leading the 4-way test.  The next meeting is April 7th, 2014 at Pondhouse Cafe. 

Respectfully submitted,

 Chad Licht, scribe

Birthdays

Jonathan Harris Apr 12

Mark Roming Apr 19

David Gerrol Apr 23

Joe Stafford Apr 25

Kyle Egress Apr 26

Anniversaries

Greg Mogel Apr 19, 2010

Chad Licht Apr 22, 2013

MINUTES FOR THE MEETING OF

March 24th, 2014 - 12:15 PM

The Pondhouse Cafe

Present: 32 Great Rotarians; 0 visiting Rotarians, and 3 guests.

Bruce Stanger gave the invocation with thoughts of “Leaning In”, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. During lunch, Hap began the meeting with announcements, starting with:

1.     Finally removed the red ‘new member’ ribbon from Chad Licht’s name badge

2.     Noted that West Hartford Press will be celebrating volunteers in April and that we should look for someone we know in an upcoming article.  (hint – a former club President…)

3.     Discussed the upcoming Jazz Brunch on April 6^th – see him if you are interested in attending.  We still need 10-15 people to attend.

4.     Pointed out highlights in the April The Rotarian magazine including: polio survivor and Paralympian Dennis Ogbe; an article on ‘smart’ bandages, and an article on Howard Buffett and his quest to end world hunger by 2046.

5.     Eileen Rau discussed the Annual campaign – you can give online or bring a check.  Note we will be tracking the progress in the weekly bulletin.

6.     Don Chandler discussed the upcoming District Conference (25-27 April in Portsmouth, NH) – registration is required by 1 April.  He also noted that we are sharing a hospitality suite with clubs from Manchester and East Hartford.

7.     Kyle Egress talked up Lobster Fest 2014 – it will be June 21^st on the ASD campus.  He noted that it is appreciated that this year our big three events are in close proximity, but June was a better fit for Lobster Fest and that next year we will spread them out.  ALSO, we are looking for a band that is willing to play for meals instead of cash.

Sergeant at Arms Todd Bower reports 32 Rotarians are present, with no visiting Rotarians and three guests: guest speaker Gustave "Gus" Keach-Longo of CRT and two guests of Cindy; Susan Lederman and John Smeallie of Pizzaz.  There was one birthday (Oscar Santo-Domingo) and several anniversaries.

Happy dollars were collected.  Don announced that Eileen is the newest member of RLI!

 The 50/50 raffle is up to $20 with no winner today.  We are looking for Jack of clubs.

Gus Keach-Longo from Community Renewal Team (CRT) was the guest speaker and gave a presentation on Veterans Landing – a planned innovative assisting living community for veterans.  It is the first in the nation – a partnership between the state (subsidizes the housing) and the VA (subsidizes the care and services).  It will be constructed on the VA campus in Newington, open in spring of 2016, and will feature 103 private apartments. 

The meeting was adjourned at 1:40, with Oscar Santo-Domingo leading the 4-way test.  The next meeting is March 31, 2014 at Pondhouse Cafe.        

Respectfully submitted,

 Chad Licht, scribe

What is Rotary?  What is it all about?  Rotarians of many countries arise to make answer, but no two answers are alike.  Is there no common accord? Yes, there is one; it is like the rumble of a great organ, the roar of a distant sea breaking on the beach.  Beneath Rotary's many and varied activities, there is the unchanging undertone of goodwill, goodwill, goodwill.  On this anniversary, my hope is for the continued advancement of goodwill between men and nations.  I have no higher hope, nor do I know of one.

Message on Rotary's 39th Birthday

The final status of the Annual Program Fund Campaign.   

Some pictures from last weekend's Vines of March.

The crowd enjoying the evening

Vines Chairman Bob Kor at the mic

Honorary Chairpersons and Celebrity Auctioneers Kara Sundlun and Dennis House

Wine Supplier Steve Leon of Wine Cellars 4

Enjoying Donna Griffen's chocolate fountain!

President Hap speaks

The Jazz Brunch at the Hartford Club was held on Sunday April 6th.  

Click on the image below to get the full size pdf of the flyer.

MINUTES FOR THE MEETING OF

March 3rd, 2014 - 12:15 PM

The Pondhouse Cafe

Present: 32 Great Rotarians; 0 visiting Rotarians and 2 guests.

Bruce Stanger gave the invocation with thoughts of “Leaning In”, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. 

During lunch, Hap began the meeting with announcements, starting with:

1.     Due to the Vines of March, there will be no meeting next Monday (10^th)

2.     Discussed the upcoming 6^th Grade writing project.  The Monday 17 March meeting is also cancelled and we will meet on Tuesday for the writing project at St. Joseph’s College instead.

3.     Mary Silberberg discussed the play ‘Higgins in Harlem’ on Thursday the 20^th.  Checks are due by the 13^th, and if you wish to attend and have not paid, please make arrangements with Mary as we will not be meeting before then.

4.     Robert Kor discussed Vines of March – it is on Saturday March 8^th

5.     Hap noted that Birch Burghardt sent a card and enclosed was a donation to the Polio Plus campaign for $100 in the name of Polly.

6.     Hap discussed the upcoming Jazz Brunch on April 6^th – see him if you are interested in attending.

Sergeant at Arms Todd Bower reports 32 Rotarians are present, with no visiting Rotarians and two guests: guest speaker Fred Stula and Michael Fryer.  There were several birthdays.

Happy dollars were collected.  Ed Cape noted that he arrived in the United States 61 years ago.

 The 50/50 raffle is up to $9 with no winner today.  We are looking for Jack of clubs.

Fred Stula from HARC was the guest speaker.  He discussed some of the programs offered by HARC, and pointed out that in 2013 over 2200 people (including family members) received services from HARC.  It was noted that Rotary Club of West Hartford has a 15 year relationship with HARC.

The meeting was adjourned at 1:30, with Oscar Santo Domingo leading the 4-way test.  The next meeting is March 24th, 2014 at Pondhouse Cafe. 

Respectfully submitted,

 Chad Licht, scribe

Our guest speaker this week was Mr. Todd Dumais, West Hartford Town Planner.

Our speaker was Gino Caro, owner of Fast Lane Sports Performance. Gino is a coach helping young athletes improve their performance. Over the last few years, he’s additionally focused on sports leadership and sports parenting. In the performance area he specializes in customized speed, agility and conditioning programs for individual, group and team training for all sports. For more information, visit his website at http://fastlanesports.wix.com/1

MINUTES FOR THE MEETING OF

Feb. 3, 2014 - 12:15 PM

Present:  28  Great Rotarians;  1 visiting Rotarians and  1  guests.

Booker DeVaughn gave the followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

During lunch, [Hap] began the meeting with announcements, starting with:

1.     PDG Eileen reminded us that Feb. is Rotary’s birthday month – 109 years old. She also reminded us that we need to continue to contribute to PolioPlus and the Annual Fund. Giving online is fine – you and our Club get credit.

2.     Eileen presented Shari Cantor with a new Paul Harris pin, representing Paul Harris Fellowship + 4. Congrats Shari.

3.     Bob reported on Vines – coming up quickly. We need to sell tickets. You can now purchase online

4.     Oscar announced PolioPlus is at $1789.

5.     Christine asked for volunteers for the Hanoc party at Children’s Museum, next Monday, Feb. 10

6.     Hap reminded us about the Jazz Brunch, April 6

7.     Oscar updated us on the water project in the Philippines. Ironically, our project was so successful, the local government is now interested in providing water to the schools.

Len Albert from the Plainville Club was a Rotarian visitor.

The 50/50 raffle is up to $62 and we did not have a winner today.

Our speaker was Gino Caro, owner of Fast Lane Sports Performance. Gino is a coach helping young athletes improve their performance. 

The meeting was adjourned at 1:30, with the 4-way test.  The next meeting is Feb. 10  at Pondhouse Cafe.         

Respectfully submitted,

Don Chandler, scribe

For years, Rotarian Tony has organized a writing project in the West Hartford 6th grade classes.  A note from Tony follows:

Dear Fellow Members,

This year our Club is celebrating our 20^th year of our Writing Project with the Middle Schools in West Hartford. The project since its inception is our Club interest in providing the 6^th graders in our middle schools with an opportunity to express themselves through the medium of writing. This year the kids are writing on last year Rotary Theme…”Peace Through Service".  Past year’s results have been incredible and we’re looking forward to this year. This year’s celebration will take place March 18^th at 12 noon at the University of St. Josephs cafeteria in West Hartford. As in previous years, I need to provide the caterer with a count by March 4^th. So, if you are planning on attending and have not signed up yet please call me at 860-573-0440 or email me at tonyr@danielpenn.com.  Your attendance and support at this event is much appreciated it. 

Rotarily, Tony Rodriguez

Below, Tony and Pres. Hap visit the 6th graders at the Kings Philips Middle School, where Tony describes Rotary to them.

Kate Holzman was the guest speaker.  She was an Ambassadorial Scholar sponsored by the West Hartford Rotary Club, and spoke to us regarding the "Read to a Child" program

This year, the party for the children from HANOC was held on Feb. 10 at the Children's Museum.  Christine Looby was the chair for this successful event.

You Know a very famous BHAG that my mom heard at the Lincoln Memorial on 28th of August 1963 and which I know called many people to action, including my mom:

     I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created      equal."

I pray