Windsor Rotary Archived Bulletins

Author: Envira Gallery

  • 2022-01-04 Led into the New Year by the Healdsburg Ukelele

    2022-01-04 Led into the New Year by the Healdsburg Ukelele

    A New Year for our Rotary Club!   We were led into the New Year by the Ukelele Club of Healdsburg and our own President, Pam Moulton.

    Our meeting was called to order by President Pam who let us know that in Rotary “they say the 3 most important meetings of the year are:  The first meeting, the second meeting (because everyone expects the 1st meeting to be good) and the First Meeting of the Year….. so here goes!”

    Pledge of Allegiance – Mitch Grandi

    Guests:   Ukelele Group of Healdsburg – Dave, Tina, Gail, Steve, Taddeus, Karen and Pam Moulton
                   John Nelson, husband of Past President Sue Nelson
                   Sally Spangler, sister of Carol Martin

    Song:   “Oh, What a beautiful Rotary Morning” – great job everyone

    Rotary Moment: Several of our members shared with us what their Rotary Moment was, commitment and goals for 2022  – seems we may have an Interact Club if all goes well……

    Rotarian of the Month – drum roll please….. Chris Landwehr. Congratulations Chris for all that you do and have done

    Announcements:
          Sue Nelson and Susan Cole – Next week’s meeting will be held at the Windsor High School in the Welding Facility.   If you want to see why our committee selected them to be our major beneficiary, just email Sue Nelson or Susan Cole to read their beautifully written application with letters of support. There will be no breakfast and no charge for the meeting. Coffee and rolls will be supplied. Park in the North Parking Lot at the end near the Gym. Hoping to have someone directing us.

         Wally Krutz – he will provide us DACdb classes – they will start on the 18th after our meeting

          Di Brabetz, RN CPNP PHN – shared with the Club that the CDC and Public Health are discouraging use of cloth masks and instead recommend surgical masks, KN95 or N95 masks as the droplets of the Omnicron variant will penetrate through a cloth mask. If you need to use a cloth mask, double them up. Di brought surgical masks for anyone who needs them (purple, of course!) and they will be on the table with Ed and Carol.

         Joan Mora – next Social will be on the 20th at Mengler Tasting Room – details to follow.

         President Pam shared with us that our Laura Buhrer lost her mother on New Year’s Eve.  

    Word from our President:
    President Pam took us on a Sentimental Rotary Journey as she shared with us some of our accomplishments for our Club in this  Rotary year to date:

    • We established monthly themes for our meeting 
    • She established a “policy” that any of us who travel should bring her back something – she will be auctioning off some of her items and donate the money to Polio Plus
    • Our new website is up and running
    • We gave toys to kids for Christmas
    • Our Club participated in the Salvation Army Bell Ringing in honor of Dick Bishop
    • We began sharing our “Rotary Moments”
    • “Passport Program” (brain child of our Past President) has begun and we are up to our goal of 62 members
    • Socials began again   

    Recognitions:  Doug Williams
           Fire Service – still pending
           Law Enforcement
           Scholarships – Tom Hassur has had to step out – will need a Chair
           Friends of Rotary – need to plan a breakfast
           Student of the Year – Pegi Ball
           Student of the Month – Daniel Myers has done a great job!
           Vet Recognition – thanks Mike Merrill
           Teacher of the Year – Doug shared he had the privilege of meeting with Ken Moulton and we will probably do this in May

    Treasurer:  Carol Martin and Ed Turner
    Quite the Vaudeville Act, they entertained us with their “Choose the Money Bucket”!  Three Enhancements made……
    #1 “Skippy” – we have named our terminal processor (for credit card transactions) and Skippy seems happier….
    #2  WRCF now we have website giving – handouts made available with info
    #3  Blue bucket – a new updated option that we can pay online for our breakfasts as well as donations.

    FundRaiser:  Kurt Mitchler and Bill Conklin
    Our Major beneficiary is the Windsor High School Welding Facility

    1.  Need sponsors – Call Maureen Merrill at 484-0320 if you have ideas and she will facilitate contact with them.  Already have some $1000 level sponsors in Maureen, Kurt, Bill, Leah – thank you. And Survivor CPR is donating $500.
    2.  Live Auction – Barbara McChesney. Mike McGuire will be our Auctioneer again. Have Di’s Casa Morada in Mexico for a week. Bagpipes and Brews. Italian Villa. Food events so far………….   Thanks to everyone
    3. “Virtual Tables” – Past President Renee Hyde discussed the idea of inviting small groups into your home to do a social/dinner party and participate together in the event and auction.   Talk it up, have your group like we were still doing this live.

    Club Operations:  Chris Landwehr
    Chris thrilled us with his magic act of a blank piece of paper in the hat and ‘poof’, we have our Weekly Assignments for the next months…  This includes, Room Set up, Greeter, Inspiration, Song Leader, Scribe, A-V Set up and Zoom Team. Meeting assignments – we were reminded that IF you cannot keep your commitment, it is your responsibility to find someone to take it for you.

    Environmental:  Barbara McChesney
    She needs other members to join her – passionate about elimination of single use plastics. Showed us a short video of “Plastic Soup info”. Will be having a speaker later this month from the Netherlands

    Training:  Michael Juric (MJ)
    Discussed training for Presidents and Governors. Has  4 Strategic Priorities:

    • Increase our impact 
    • Enhance participant engagement  
    • Expand our reach  
    • Increase our ability to adapt

    Rotary’s Vision Statement:  “Together we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change across the globe in our communities and in ourselves”!

    Youth Services:  Pegi Ball

    She discussed some of our activities such as WHS Student of the Month (now of the Year as we choose a student from each core ongoing).
    Cool Kids Camp, Girls’ State and Youth Exchange:
                    Youth Exchange – we have 2 students that will be outgoing and had 3 students apply for our short-term exchange program

    International and Club Service:  Susan Cole and Sue Nelson

    Celebrate some of our victories……..
                    Wasteless Windsor – District Matching Grant
                    Truckers Against Human Trafficking
                    Greenville, CA Fire Relief
                    Windsor Girls Softball Equipment Bags
                    Windsor High School Girls Athletic Program
                    Santa Tim
                    North Bay Met Academy Water Catchment         
                    Windsor Community Holiday Food and Toy Drive
                    Peruvian Water Project (Engineers without Borders)
                    Haiti Earthquake Relief

    Give a huge round of applause for all that our small club has accomplished and will continue to accomplish.   Thanks to everyone!!!!

    Next Meeting:   Tuesday, January 11th at 7:15 am at Windsor High School Welding Facility

    President Pam ended with sharing the definition of Commitment:  “A Noun  – the little choices everyday that we make which lead to the final results that we are striving for!”

    The meeting was adjourned………………….

    COVID UPDATE from Diane Brabetz:

                   FDA AUTHORIZES BOOSTERS FOR YOUTHS, AGES 12-15!    FDA also shortened to 5 months the time required between 2nd dose and ability to be given the Booster.  

    OMICRON cases are here in Sonoma County!  Epidemiologists continue to warn us against an increase in COVID and continued spread if we do not get people vaccinated and boosted.   If you have not gotten your booster, please find an appointment and get one now to protect yourself. Also consider getting your flu shot and encourage those you know who have not been vaccinated, to get theirs now.  Let me know if you have issues with finding appointments.   I can and will help!

                   Our State is now requiring masks to be worn indoors.   This mask mandate was put back into place because the per capita rate of new coronavirus cases jumped. This means that anyone, regardless of vaccination status must be wearing a mask in all public indoor venues. California has also mandated testing requirements for 1000 or more people attending indoor events to have a negative test within 1-2 days  before the event. The State is also recommending travelers who visit or return to California to get tested within 5 days of their arrival and the Federal government is imposing stricter regulations for testing when flying.    Testing can be difficult to find, but check for pop-up clinics daily and I do offer testing at my office with an appointment.

                   We do remain vulnerable to the coronavirus with more travel happening, large gatherings occurring and people letting down their guard. If you want to schedule either a booster or the vaccine, appointments can be found by visiting: https://socoemergency.org/events/category/pop-up-vaccine or call 707-565-4667.

    Total Cases: 46,745* (2 weeks ago 44,091), Recovered: 43,136 (2 weeks ago 42,253), Active Cases: 3,191* (2 weeks ago 1,422)    ***Please note this huge increase!!!!  We continue to climb***

    Deaths: 418   (2 weeks ago 416)  Please continue to honor those we have lost by encouraging those you know who have not become vaccinated, to get their COVID shot, get a booster and their flu shot. Help us stop the surge and keep our residents safe….   Fortunately, this Omicron does not seem to be as deadly as Delta but more contagious.  

    New Cases: 1,994  cases this past week (2 weeks ago 520) – this is a huge increase and demonstrates how infectious Omicron can and is.

    Hospitalized: 29 confirmed and 3 suspected (2 weeks ago 30 confirmed and 5 suspected)     

    Vaccination information….  As of January 2nd, 2022, 917,953  doses of vaccination have been given to residents in Sonoma County. (2 weeks ago 885,527).  77% of our population 5 years and older  (5-11 year olds have now been approved and are counted in the population vaccinated or not)  are fully vaccinated and approximately 8% have received at least 1 dose.   Providers in Sonoma County are giving shots to our 5-11 year olds and are also providing Boosters for anyone over 18, but we are not seeing large numbers seeking vaccinations yet. 

    MASKS: It is now recommended to not use cloth masks as the droplets of the virus can penetrate them. Omicron is highly contagious and will get through.   It is recommended that you use a surgical mask, KN95 or the N95. If you continue to use your cloth masks, then please use two and double up. This will help with the spread of this fast spreading variant. Fortunately it does not seem to attack the lungs like the Delta variant but instead causes more of a respiratory illness.

    There are now new requirements on testing before flying – our government has mandated within 24 hrs of a flight and more countries are requiring testing to travel in or out.  If you are traveling, please ensure you check with your airlines to see what the requirements are before you leave. We continue to see breakthrough cases of COVID, but most people who have been diagnosed with a breakthrough are either asymptomatic (which means they are infectious and can spread it without knowing) or are mildly sick.   This is an indication of how well the vaccines are working.  The State is also suggesting that anyone traveling when you return to test 3-5 days after your return.  Isolation requirements for those positive but asymptomatic, fully vaccinated and boosted have been decreased to 5 days (from the previous 10 days)  People who are symptomatic should isolate until asymptomatic and check with Public Health or their Physician as to their safe return to work.

    If you have not gotten a booster and are in a group that can, it is highly recommended to give your immune system a boost.  Also get your Flu vaccine as we do not want citizens coming down with the flu. This not only compromises their immune systems, but can also weaken their lungs.  We need to keep our hospital beds free for those really sick and help our limited medical staff ready to help those with COVID and not have our county  residents admitted with the flu.

    So, I hope your Holidays were all that you wanted, that you were cautious and that if you were around groups of others, you will test.  Mask up, get your booster, your flu shot and just be careful as we learn to live with this virus.   Please remember, if you are in a meeting indoors, remove your mask only to eat and drink and then replace it immediately!  Help protect the ones you love!

    Please know that I am always available to answer questions, help with scheduling appointments, providing a test or even FIT testing you for a N95 mask so that it fits properly.

    Thanks, Di

  • 2018-04-10 Windsor High School Student of the Month Awards

  • 2021-11-09 Visit with Supervisor James Gore

  • 2021-08-21 Sarah Keiser on Fire Mitigation with Sheep!

    today’s meeting

    President Pam Moulton rang. The bell at 7:30 and turned to guest Scott Bonin to lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance.

    John How took us out to the ballgame and we all got to root root root for the Giants!

    Wally Krutz gave us a Rotary moment letting us know his “ah-ha” moment, that moment that makes you look at life in a different kind of way. For Wally it was a Rotoplast trip to China to take care of children with cleft palate. The ability to be in the presence with the team of physicians and nurses, and the children made the trip inspirational, but it was one of the last patients of the day, when a young child was being taken to recovery when the child’s parents rushed him and he was caught off guard. What he initially thought were screams of anger, became excited cries of joy. Handing the child to the parents made him feel the power of his Rotary moment.

    Rotarians on ZOOM:

    • Heather Cullen, John LeCave, Mike Freedman, Chris Landwher, Beth Smith, and Karen Ricketts.

    Visitors to our meeting:

    • JB Leep welcomed Rodrigo, and Sarah Keiser, our speaker for the day.
    • Barbara McChesney welcomed Terry Andreschotti from Forestville.
    • Dr. Scott Bunin was introduced by former dentist Kurt Michener

    Pres Pam gave us an update on the Board meeting. A lot was discussed and it shows how hard the Board has been working. Here are the notes from the whirlwind presentation:

    BUDGET (Carol and Ed)

    • All Good!

    YOUTH (Pegi)

    • Great Chance for Interact to start up – Community Based model for 12 – 18 year-olds
    • Both LONG TERM and SHORT-TERM student exchange paperwork is in – start in 2022
    • Dictionary Project is ON and will be held in February 2022
    • GOLF TOURNAMENT in Arcata (9/25/21) to support fund for clubs and students in Youth Exchange
    • SERIOUS consideration for Youth Exchange to hold Golf Tournament in May in Windsor (stay tuned!!)

    CLUB OPERATIONS (Chris)

    • All is good with calendar that Chris sent out with assignments – if you CAN’T do what you are assigned – Please get a replacement.
    • We are including ZOOM meisters to assist on a weekly basis to support MJ and JB

    RECOGNITION (DOUG)

    • LOTS OF options to recognize our local First responders – banners? Meetings? Coffee vouchers?
    • Maybe a program related to what goes on with our Fire Fighters when they are deployed
    • OUR Veteran’s Day event will be on NOVEMBER 16th – looking at options to honor Vets

    FOUNDATION

    • NO NEW POLIO CASES

    Club Culture (Joan)

    • Socials are being discussed once SCARC is over, including a hike in Jenner, a Social at Barbara McChesney’s home, a trip on the Smart Train, a Strolling Social, etc.

    COMMUNICATION (John LeCave, Wally and JB)

    • DACdb is where we will hold all our documents , including calendar, etc
    • Some of you need to UPDATE your PHOTOS PLEASE
    • Please use BCC when emailing many in the club so as to conceal personal emails
    • Website is likely to go live around SEPTEMBER 10th

    ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE (Barbara McChesney)

    • Monthly calendar on DAC will detail upcoming events for volunteerism/education

    SERVICE (Sue Nelson and Susan Cole)

    • both Local and International Committee mtgs scheduled (8/24/21 and 8/31/21)
    • highlighting International history of Windsor Rotary Club

    FUNDRAISING

    • Board to start discussion of Fundraising issues/needs etc at special meeting
    • Steve Klick shared there is a September 11th chili cook off to support families of First Responders. He needs people to serve… above self, and talk to others about Rotary.

    Barbara McChesney gave us an update on ESRAG. She is now the chair for the District ESRAG committee, or as Pres Pam alluded to, the Queen of the environment.

    On the 26th of August JB Leep needs a few volunteers to help at the “Summer Nights on the Green” to help recycle those drink cups we plan to be selling, and more.

    Pegi Ball let us know that Tina Castelli let her know there is a Mimosa Booth being manned by Lions, but their license is out of order, so Rotary is being asked to take over the booth for Sundays in August, September, and October… It turns out we are all tucked in at home enjoying Mimosa’s.

    Bill Bolster invited Maureen Merrill to the front and center so he could recognize Maureen’s year as the president of our COVID club. She brought us ZOOM, and kept us together.

    Renee Hyde stepped forward and invited Mike Rausch to stand and be recognized as a returning member. Rotary is what he does when not running the Windsor Police Department. Brian Williams is back and offering Rotarians tickets to the September 3rd Windsor High football game.

    The secret greeter for today was Barbara McChesney… she quickly sent notice that there were only three people were not greet full and that is $5 each.

    JB Leep took over the mic to let us know that he had to change computers and that gave him an opportunity to promote Wasteless Windsor, by manning the booth, conveniently located across from the Windsor Bar.

    program

    Sarah Kaiser, founder of the Penngrove Grazing Project, at her farm Wild Oat Hollow in Penngrove, Calif., on Tuesday, October 6, 2020. (BETH SCHLANKER/ The Press Democrat)

    After the commercial, JB introduced Sarah Kaiser, with Wild Oak Hollow natural soaps and more, but her other business and the topic for the day was presented as the director of the Penngrove grazing program that places sheep in grassy areas around Sonoma County to help reduce the risk of wildfires.

    Sheep and goats together are called a fled, which consists of ruminants (cud chewing) animals.

    Wild urban interface is the target for the program and placing the right animal in the right setting is key to its success. Sarah let us know that her roots in the Midwest gives her a background of community support. She started her current program seven years ago.

    Animals are the best way to knock down fire fuel, because fires typically start with mowing machines, whereas animals can benefit the land with their ability to provide soil benefits with their droppings and their urine. We also learned that the hooves of the animals tend to allow for aerating the land.

    Ruminants are shared by community, because the animals are herded from one neighbor to another. According to Sarah, these animals become the neighborhood ambassadors. The process of moving animals on the hoof is known as transhumance, which would allow animals to pass from one property to the next with a safe place for passage similar to pedestrian access.

    A visual aid showed how the grazed areas on one side of a fence showed no impact from fire, while the other side of the fence showed the scars and blackened land where fire had taken a toll on the land.

    Intersectional Land Stewardship is a program that develops recommendations to promote partnerships with multiple agencies to coordinate the work that has proven successful for fighting fires with grazing animals. The success of the program can be shared worldwide as we see the increase of fires due to climate change. For more information on this organic fire fighting method, visit Sarah’s website at Wildoathollow.com/community-grazing-cooperatives, or feel free to reach out to Sarah via email at Sarah.keiser@wildoathollow.

    COVID UPDATE

    NEWS FLASH!!!!   Huge increase in Sonoma county in hospitalizations of COVID positive cases (these are people, people!)    We have jumped to 84 confirmed cases of COVID and 1 suspected….. exactly one month ago, we only had 40-41 hospitalized and 6 weeks ago, it was only 20 people.    This is very alarming and means that we do have to be cautious, careful and get vaccinated.

    Total Cases:       34,839    (last week 34,023)

    Recovered:    31,969    (last week  31,439)

    Active Cases: 2532   (last week 2247)

    New Cases:            We are seeing an increase in new cases and breakthrough in the vaccinated –  be aware that you can still catch COVID even if you are fully vaccinated.   Protect  yourself and  others with good hand washing, wearing your mask indoors as mandated and ensuring you are around others fully vaccinated.

    Hospitalized: 84 confirmed and 13 suspected    (last week 70 confirmed and 3 suspected)     This alarming increase in hospitalizations means we are taxing our hospitals, our ER’s and putting a strain on medical services that are needed by others not fighting COVID.   We have a labor shortage even in health care and we are seeing it in are health care settings with positions open, people not applying and those working on overwhelm.    Wait times in ER’s have increased dramatically due to COVID.    Many hospitals nationwide who specialize in care for children are out of beds as we are seeing the Delta variant strike children.    If they are under 12 they are not eligible for vaccinations   –   the only way to protect our children is to surround them in fully vaccinated people!

    Vaccination information….  As of August 16th,  641,056  residents in Sonoma County have received the vaccine (last week 633,286).     72% of our populations 12 and older are fully vaccinated and approximately 80% have received at least 1 dose.     We are beginning to see large corporations put into effect hiring requirements that all are vaccinated and deadlines for current staff to become vaccinated.   The Governor has now issued a new mandate that all health care workers in the State must be fully vaccinated by Sept. 30th and previously issued a mandate for all state government employees to become vaccinated beginning August 2nd and implemented by August 23rd

    Please be aware that effective Tuesday, August 3rd, the State Public Health Officer did issue a directive to wear masks indoors regardless of your vaccination status.   I realize that many people have very strong opinions on vaccinations and even stronger about mandates and requirements for hiring.   However, our children under 12 cannot get vaccines nor do our little ones wear masks; unless we surround these little ones in totally vaccinated individuals they are susceptible.   A vaccination is still a personal choice, but if you do not do it for you, do it for others!   We have frail elders and immunocompromised individuals who need us to mask up and get vaccinated.    We are probably going to see the need for boosters as our immunity wanes from the vaccination.   And right now boosters for those people immunosuppressed are recommended.   Please remember that this virus has not gone away and lies in wait for a chance to replicate and mutate!

    Thanks

    Di

  • 2021-09-30 Anniversary Social at the Rotary Bar

  • 2021-08-26 Windsor Town Green – Rotary Bar

    Windsor Town Green

    SCARC Meeting

  • 2021-09-28 Meeting Bulletin 

    2021-09-28 Meeting Bulletin 

    DR. FRANK CHONG – UPDATE ON SRJC

    Scribe: Tom Boylan Editor: Natalie Lim Introduced by: Sue Nelson

    • Song was led by Bill Arnone – America the Beautiful

    Brian Ling gave us his “Rotary Moment”.  It came in 1971 when he was in the 5th grade.  Brian’s Dad told him that he would be “host” at a Christmas party to children from families who had far less than they did.  Brian didn’t get a gift at that party, and his Dad explained to him that if you are to be successful in your profession and in your life, you have to be in service.   That was Brian’s Rotary moment.

    We had no visiting Rotarians.

    Our guests of Rotarians were:

    • Emma Smith
    • Lilly Simkins
    • Kaley Fowler, all on the Windsor High School Volleyball team, and introduced by Jamie Williams.
    • Domingo Kayeha from Chile, introduced by Renee Hyde, where he is staying.   Domingo’s brother was our Youth Exchange student 10 years ago and had a terrible accident.  Domingo thanked our Club and everyone who was involved in caring for his brother.
    • Dr. Frank Chong, President of Santa Rosa Junior College, introduced by Sue Nelson.

    The Windsor High School Girl’s Volleyball team representatives each thanked our Club for sending them to the “Women in Conversation” event, where they heard from professional women athletes.  Their take-aways and learnings were as follows:

    • Emma Smith – In order to stand up, you must fall down.  Hope to fail, so you have practice getting back up.
    • Lilly Simkins – Learn to balance sports and your home life.  Live in the moment and treasure every minute with your family.
    • Kaley Fowler – It’s ok to fail as long as you learn from these failures.

    Each of these girls was eloquent, well-prepared, and very appreciative of the opportunity we gave to them.

    Beth Smith received her official Rotary badge from President Pam.

    ANNOUNCEMENTS:

    President Pam thanked Renee Hyde, Joan Mora, and all others who helped us celebrate our Club Anniversary on the Town Green Thursday night.   It was a great social with Anniversary Flair!

    Bill Bolster read us a congratulatory note from a Rotary Club in District 3150 in India, fro Sirham Puri, Assistant Governor.   He thanked the Rotary Club of Windsor for our global footprint and global initiatives.  Nice to hear from someone a world away from us.

    Sue Nelson let our Club know that the invitation letters for requesting our grants are in the hands of the community.  We will begin evaluations in mid-October, with the final selection of the award of grant money to be announced by mid-November.   All members of our Club are invited to participate in the evaluation and selection process, so we are all committed and passionate about the financial commitment we are making to our community.   Sue sent around a clipboard seeking members to serve on the selection committee and nine members signed up.    Any other club members who would like to join this committee are encouraged to join the committee.   If so please contact Sue Nelson at jsnelson1@comcast.net.

    Jamie Williams is seeking Snack Bar volunteers for October 15 and 22, Windsor High home games.  A clipboard was sent around seeking volunteers.   All Rotary members are always comp’d at Windsor High home games, all sports.

    President Pam announced that a survey has gone out regarding input on re-opening the ON LINE/Zoom presence for our meetings.   Please respond to Michael Juric.  This is just a mental health pause as we plan how to start up again with a bit less stress on the zoom team.  Thanks to Chris Landwehr for re-arranging the schedule to accommodate those who are unable to attend and were assigned jobs (e.g., singing and scribing!)

    Remembering Jackie Coffin, our former long-time member and producer of our Club newsletter.  Jackie has passed away and we are holding her in our hearts.  Jackie owned and ran Mailboxes, Etc. with her husband, Alan.  She was a polio survivor and walked with a limp because she suffered the after effect of many polio survivors – PPS, or Post Polio Syndrome.  PPS is a disorder of the nerves and muscles and can happen to people many years after they have had polio.  Jackie was in Rotary for at least 20 years.    Michael Juric remembers that in 1999 when he was President for the first time he asked her to do the Club newsletter, saying, “it will only take a couple of hours a week.”  In 2012 when Michael was District Governor she was still doing the Bulletin and took the time to say to the Club something to the effect of “watch out when he asked you to do something that will only take a couple of hours.”

    Diane Brabetz spoke eloquently of her long-time friendship with Jackie.  President Pam asked for a moment of silence in remembrance.

    SPEAKER:

    Sue Nelson gave an excellent introduction for our speaker, Dr. Frank Chong, President of Santa Rosa Junior College, noting that this is his 10th anniversary as President of SRJC, which is a highly prestigious school, well-known throughout California.

    With the passage of Measure 8, funding for improvement of facilities and technology at SRJC have successfully taken place.

    Santa Rosa Junior College is an important institution in this county, on a par with some of our major services in the county, such as Memorial  and Sutter Hospitals, and  the Press Democrat newspaper.   Many nurses, dental assistants were trained at SRJC.

    The Rotary Center for Student Leadership is a great example of SRJC working with the community to enhance the college.  Sue Nelson, who served on the SRJC Board for many years has worked hard for SRJC.

    Dr. Chong discussed enrollment at the college, and enumerated a long list of in-person classes.  Since covid, SRJC has gone from 12% in person classes to over 32% in person this fall.  What we are learning is that, “one flavor doesn’t fit all.”  For some students, in home or remote classes work very well, because they fit into a life where commuting or work schedules do not easily allow attending class in person.

    Covid-19 has had a large impact on enrollment  – financial, housing and mental health issues are challenges facing students  today.

    In the interest of “Support Student Success” Dr. Chong said that this year over 600 (632 to be exact) students were accepted to Sonoma State University.  Dr. Chong mentioned the success stories of formerly incarcerated and undocumented students who went on to a very rewarding life after attending SRJC.

    Dr. Chong showed photos of some of the excellent additions to the college campus including new student housing, a state-of-the-art Olympic size swimming pool, and the Linley Center for STEM education.

    Dr. Chong states that through work on sustainability – free bus passes, SMART train passes, bike-friendly environment, SRJC plans to be net energy zero by 2050.

    He says that SRJC is our college and he offers his appreciation and gratitude for the support from Rotary that SRJC has enjoyed.

    President Pam offered her congratulations again to Rotarian of the Month Catherine Hanron.    She reminded us that the meeting next week was on CREATING THE FUNDRAISER!!  Encouraging everyone to attend so we can get off to a great start.

    Her thought for the week was from Gandhi:  “Live as if you were going to die tomorrow.  Learn as if you were going to live forever.”

    COVID UPDATE

    From your Rotary Nurse………………

    NEWS FLASH:     BOOSTER SHOTS ARE COMING!!!!!!!!!!!    Pfizer boosters are now available.    Moderna and J and J will be coming…….     STAY TUNED!

    Total Cases:        39,399    (last week 39,075)

    Recovered:    37,209    (last week  36,102)

    Active Cases: 1806   (last week 2595)

    Deaths:                384 (last week 378)  Almost 56% of our deaths are now not a resident of senior living or skilled nursing facilities!

    New Cases:          324 new cases this past week      (last week 555 new cases)

    Hospitalized:        43 confirmed and 0 suspected    (last week 52 confirmed and 6 suspected)

    Vaccination information….  As of Sept. 26th,  689,159  residents in Sonoma County have received the vaccine (last week 679,380).     76% of our populations 12 and older are fully vaccinated and approximately 84% have received at least 1 dose.     With the FDA fully approving Pfizer vaccine, we are already seeing large employers as well as government entities and even private employers mandating the need for vaccinations.  As a health care provider and an employer we have been notified by the State of California that because we received Federal funds, all of our employees must be vaccinated by October.   We have seen only one employee who has refused and knows this is her last week of employment with us.    We are also beginning to see announcements from Stadiums and events that only those who show proof of vaccination may attend.   Restaurants have even begun to ask for proof of vaccinations and signs “No shirt, No shoes, No COVID shot, NO service” are beginning to crop up.  The service industry is serious about keeping people safe but being able to remain open.

    Booster shots are available if you were given Pfizer and then we will probably see the Moderna vaccine approved and available soon.    You are eligible for a booster if you received two (2) shots at least 6 months ago, are 65 years old, reside in a long term care setting, or are 50-64 years of age and have an underlying medical condition such as cancer, diabetes, asthma, HIV infections and heart disease, or obesity.  Also anyone 18-64 years old and at increased risk for COVID exposure and transmission because of occupational or institutional setting.

    Please continue to wear your masks, be aware of your surroundings and even outside, if you are in crowded situations, mask up!   Wash your hands frequently, use hand sanitizer and take precautions.    The Delta variant is out there, very virulent, ready to strike and given that we still have 16% of our citizens not vaccinated over the age of 12 and all of our young children, it still has “hosts” it can latch onto.   We need to try and manage this disease as we are not going to control it!

    Thanks

    Di

    https://windsor.dacdbdev.com/envira/meeting-2021-09-28/

  • 2021-12-21 New Members: Getting to Know You!

    New Members: Getting to Know You!

    I suppose that the meeting started on time, but my timing was off, so let’s assume we all stood at 7:31 to wish a Happy Hello to President Pam Moulton.

    If we can go along with the intro to these notes, then it wouldn’t be impossible to consider that someone other than Pres Pam or the scribe, gave us an opportunity to face the flag and recite the pledge.

    There was a Board Meeting last night and President Pam gave us a rundown of all the important points which were discussed. She talked a bit about all the ways our club has been involved with the community recently: Bell Ringing in memory of Dick Bishop for the Salvation Army, the luncheon at Veterans’ Village, and the Windsor Holiday Food & Toy Drive. Wow, we’ve been busy!

    When it comes to singing, there are so many voices that should be recognized, whether off key, baritone, or soprano. Having a singing club starts the day with a burst of energy. Today, it was JB, telling us a few fun facts about Jingle Bells and then we sang it.

    Can we really just consider one Rotary moment after a full year of company and friendship with one another? Probably not. Let’s just take a moment to think of your personal Rotary moment for the past year. It could be the moment you’ve been waiting for.

    Considering I (Tom Boylan) am writing this bulletin the day before the meeting, it is difficult to describe the introductions of guests, but considering all the new members we have, let’s just call any visitors future Rotarians and we will have covered the lot. Actually, I just remembered that Bill Bolster introduced our new outgoing Youth Exchange student, Rebecca Mortensen, who will hopefully be coming to many meetings in the coming months. Congratulations, Rebecca!

    Visiting Rotarians would be nice, but I sense most Rotarians are busy with last minute Holiday Shopping and so we had none today. Meeting at 7:30 AM allows us an early run to the last-minute stores that are amply available.

    I know I heard we are breaking into small groups today, the same group that was assigned an Adopt A Family a couple of weeks ago. What fun it was to know that the gift cards we collected, and the toys that were brought to the Annual Windsor Rotary Christmas Party will find a home. I sense that no child will know that the squishy doll they are holding was actually bought for Leslie Lewis. It was kind of a senior medical thing. 

    We had lots of lively conversations at our tables and then one spokesperson from each table shared a tidbit that emerged from their spirited interactions. We were told to go around the table and cover 3 topics in 4 minutes each: (1) What brought us to join Rotary?, (2) What will keep us engaged with Rotary over the next year?, and (3) What are your dreams for the coming year? Lots of energy in the room! Thank you, new members, for sharing your ideas with President Pam and your willingness to become an integral part of our wonderful group! 

    Merry Christmas to all and to all a Good Night!

    DIANE’S COVID UPDATE:

    FIRST CASE OF OMNICRON DIAGNOSED IN SONOMA COUNTY!  EPIDEMIOLOGISTS WARN AGAINST SURGE OF COVID AND A TOUGH WINTER AHEAD!   If you have not gotten your booster, please find an appointment and get one now to protect yourself.    Also consider getting your flu shot and encourage those you know who have not been vaccinated, to get theirs now.

    STATE is now requiring masks to be worn indoors.   This mask mandate was put back into place because the per capita rate of new coronavirus cases has jumped 47% in the past 2 weeks!   This means that anyone, regardless of vaccination status must be wearing a mask in all public indoor venues.  California has also mandated testing requirements for 1000 or more people attending indoor events to have a negative test within 1-2 days  before the event.   The State is also recommending travelers who visit or return to California to get tested within 5 days of their arrival and the Federal government is imposing stricter regulations for testing when flying.

    We do remain vulnerable to the coronavirus with more travel happening, large gatherings occurring because of the holidays and people letting down their guard.    
    If you want to schedule either a booster or the vaccine, appointments can be found by visiting:  https://socoemergency.org/events/category/pop-up-vaccine or call 707-565-4667.

    Total Cases:        44,091   (last week 43,571)           Recovered:    42,253   (last week 41,924)             Active Cases: 1422   (last week 1231)        ***Please note this increase in one week!!!!  We continue to climb***

    Deaths:                416   (last week 414)    Please continue to honor those we have lost by encouraging those you know who have not become vaccinated, to get their COVID shot, get a booster and their flu shot. 
                                                                                                    Help us stop the surge and keep our residents safe….

    New Cases:         520 new cases this past week   (last week 475)

    Hospitalized:        30 confirmed and 5 suspected    (last week 28 confirmed and 3 suspected)      

    Vaccination information….  As of Dec. 19th, 885,527  doses of vaccination have been given to residents in Sonoma County. (last week 863,288).   76% of our population 5 years and older  (5-11 year olds have now been approved and are counted in the population vaccinated or not)  are fully vaccinated and approximately 8% have received at least 1 dose.     Providers in Sonoma County are giving shots to our 5-11 year olds and are also providing Boosters for anyone over 18, but we are not seeing large numbers seeking vaccinations yet. 

    There are now new requirements on testing before flying – our government has mandated within 24 hrs of a flight and more countries are requiring testing to travel in or out.    If you are traveling, please ensure you check with your airlines to see what the requirements are before you leave.    We continue to see breakthrough cases of COVID, but most people who have been diagnosed with a breakthrough are either asymptomatic (which means they are infectious and can spread it without knowing) or are mildly sick.   This is an indication of how well the vaccines are working.   The State is also suggesting that anyone traveling when you return to test 5 days after your return.   

    If you have not gotten a booster and are in a group that can, it is highly recommended to give your immune system a boost.  Also get your Flu vaccine as we do not want citizens coming down with the flu.   This not only compromises their immune systems, but can also weaken their lungs.  We need to keep our beds hospital beds free to those really sick and help our limited medical staff ready to help those with COVID and not have our county  residents admitted with the flu.

    So, as we begin to celebrate the Holidays, please continue to wear your masks, be aware of your surroundings and even outside, if you are in crowded situations, mask up!   Please remember, if you are in a meeting indoors, remove your mask only to eat and drink and then replace it immediately!    Try to avoid large groups during this holiday season but if you are inside with a group of people, mask up!    Be aware of others around you and mask up when you are not eating or drinking, unless you are with your immediate family or your extended “bubble”.     Wash your hands frequently, use hand sanitizer and take precautions.    The Delta variant is still out there, we now have Omnicron and means we need to be careful while trying to live our lives.   Help protect the ones you love!   And from our family to yours, have a safe and wonderful Christmas.

    Thanks

    Di

  • 2021-10-12 The Heart of Windsor: Town Green Merchants Tell All

    WAKE UP TO ROTARY!

    Tuesday mornings belong to Rotary as our E. Marie Coakley used to say and this morning was no exception.    Our meeting was full to the brim with Rotarians and local community business people and Mayors, former Mayors and council people!    Our guest Past President, Pegi Ball presiding with Past President Maureen Merrill (and former District Governor) acting as moderator for our Program welcomed us to our meeting

    Di Brabetz, RN CPNP PHN – Today’s scribe…..

    Pledge of Allegiance:      Led by Tom Hassur

    Song Meisters:  Jb and Carol led us in singing “Downtown” which was extremely appropriate given our Program today on our Downtown Businesses in Windsor

    Rotary Moment:               Renee Hyde, our Membership Chair was asked to provide us with this week’s Rotary Moment.   She talked about coming to her first Rotary meeting, invited by another State Farm Agent.   And how as she began her time with Rotary all of the friends she has made and continued to be friends with….  In the spirit of a first meeting and becoming a Rotarian, she invited up Patrick Dunn and Brian Williams to get their Rotary badges.    Welcome to Windsor Rotary Patrick and Brian.

    Visiting Rotarians:

    • Our Bill Conklin introduced from Redding, California, his brother Dan Conklin.

    Visitors: Our meeting room was filled with so many visitors today that this scribe cannot do justice and so will only list names…

    • JC Adams, Tracy Adams, Karen Alves, Leo Cacciatore, Domingos Callegas, Dan Conklin, Jessica Foell, Deb Fudge, Mitch Grandi (former member of our Club), Ava Hamelburg, Beth Henry, Ester Lemus, Brenda Lynch, Monica and Larry McCabe, Ken MacNab, Chris Mengler, Tim Ricard, Sam Salmon, Dev Sodagar, Kathryn Williams.
    • So happy to have so many small business owners from Windsor, friends and our Town Council.

    Sue Nelson introduced Leo Cacciatore from Circuit Riders.

    During our Event, “Our Best Shot”, our club donated to Circuit Riders for their program of transportation and rides for seniors.   Leo, who is Coordinator for “Windsor Wheels” that provides transportation for seniors let us all know they desperately need more drivers.   Their need for rides for seniors to MD appointments, shopping or just to go socialize, far outweighs their abilities.   They currently have a Wait List!    If you have an interest in helping our seniors and want to allow them to “age in place”, contact him immediately.    They will pay ½ the fee for a background check ($17) and he will inspect your car and meet with you to get you going.    Help a senior get around and not face the loneliness of being stuck in their homes.

    Special Recognition:

    • Our Fine Master Leslie Lewis was called out by our President Pam Moulton who stepped forward from the audience.   Pam let us all know that Leslie just celebrated her 60th birthday with a party on the beach and champagne and gifts?????     Since we were not sure our Fine Master would fine herself, Pam asked her how she would like to be “recognized”?    $60 to the John Lewis (Community Fund) Fund, founder of our Club and Leslie’s Dad, and another $60 to the Ken Moulton Scholarship Fund.    Thanks Leslie….

    Program:

    The microphone was turned over to our Maureen Merrill who set up a panel of community business people to talk with us about downtown businesses, the state of affairs post fires and now COVID and what they see is going on………………

    First though, we heard from Tim Ricard, on the state of Downtown Windsor, the history of our downtown and what the vision is………..   Tim shared with us that in the 1990’s the General Plan for Windsor (which many of our Rotarians were part of…) was for mixed use properties.  Our town worked with Orrin Thiessen to design a downtown on 10 acres that was known as “Poor Man Flates” he shared with us that a healthy, thriving downtown is important for any community and small Mom and Pop businesses are seen as a “Community’s Living Room”.    Windsor only lost a few businesses during the pandemic and shut down but most were snapped up by new businesses that we still have.   We have 100 businesses and 250 homes surrounding the Town Green.   One of the slogans that Windsor has used is “Big Heart / Small Town” and it does seem that so many of our business people feel that way.    Ken talked about the McClellan Hotel (160 rooms)that is supposed to be coming and an update on the Civic Center area and build out, the Smart Train coming to Windsor and other growth issues.   He shared with us that Windsor is looking at new banners for around town and Parklets will be extended in Windsor for another year encouraging outdoor dining.

    JC Adams, owner of Kin, The Republican and Kin Smoke (Healdsburg)  then shared with us that he started in Windsor at the old Johnny Garlic’s and was lucky enough to find a restaurant available in Windsor when he was ready to venture out .   He finds that the Windsor community has been very supportive and along with his wife, Tracy and daughter, Jessica, they have expanded into a Boutique and a 2nd Store for Men.   They are committed to the Windsor business community and appreciative of the town’s support.

    Brenda Lynch, owner of Mutt Lynch Winery then spoke about her experiences being on the Town Green and the effect of the pandemic.   They are proud to be dog friendly and to support local, national and international animal rescue organizations.  She talked about the pandemic and how she tried to find a way to be “essential” during the lock down and got creative and began selling dog food.   Dog food and have a glass of wine – what a concept!   She also began daily delivery of wine to customers and loves that the parklets will stay for another year to continue to be friendly to customers who want to be outside.  She shared with us that 80% of her business is from tourists but we need to realize that the Number 1 Tourist Destination outside of Disney is Wine Country.  She thanked the Windsor Town and community for their support and everyone being very creative in keeping all of the together and going.

    Deb Fudge asked the business owners “What can the Town of Windsor do for you?”   Things like “encourage people to come and visit, eat, play and drink…”, more wineries are needed as it becomes a destination with more wineries in Windsor, Keep the Parklets, Continue to let people buy drinks to go and be able to walk and drink while shopping or eating – it encourages spending money in Windsor – customers want to be outside and not in a store front – keep the parklets! “

    One Rotary member did ask how we prevent from becoming another Healdsburg, too big, too crowded and too expensive….. Ken Ricard stated the Windsor is unique in that we have so many people who live downtown and are the eyes and ears of our town.    They want a small town feel and will keep it that way.

    JC Adams was also asked if he had any plans or thoughts of opening another spot in Windsor and moving Kin Smoke there.   He replied it has been thought of a lot, but for now, not possible.

    Michael Juric reminded everyone that Rotary helped to build our downtown and we need to a relationship with the business community and Rotary.   How can downtown help us with our Fund Raiser and get involved which then helps them with identity and marketing???

    A great meeting had to come to an end and so Pegi Ball thanked everyone for coming and participating…………………..

    COVID UPDATE

    NEWS FLASH:

    • BOOSTER SHOTS ARE HERE!!!!!!!!!!    Boosters are now available at many pharmacies and at clinics and Drs’ offices.     FLU SHOTS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE!   Please get your flu shot to keep your immune system up and fighting off infections.

    Total Cases:

    • 40,106    (last week 39,773)

    Recovered:

    • 38,593    (last week  38,031)

    Active Cases:

    • 1115   (last week 1356)

    Deaths:

    • 398 (last week 386)  Please realize these are citizens of our county, a husband, father, son, wife, mother, or daughter whose family no longer will see them.    These are not necessarily a resident of senior living or skilled nursing facilities!

    New Cases:

    • 333 new cases this past week      (last week 374 new cases)

    Hospitalized:

    • 26 confirmed and 0 suspected    (last week 34 confirmed and 0 suspected)

    Vaccination information….  As of Oct. 10th,  708,480  residents in Sonoma County have received the vaccine (last week 698,952).     78% of our populations 12 and older are fully vaccinated and approximately 85% have received at least 1 dose.     Providers in Sonoma County have begun administering Boosters of both Pfizer and Moderna.  Booster shots are available if you were given either Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.    You are eligible for a booster if you received two (2) shots at least 6 months ago, are 65 years old, reside in a long term care setting, or are 50-64 years of age and have an underlying medical condition such as cancer, diabetes, asthma, HIV infections and heart disease, or obesity.  Also anyone 18-64 years old and at increased risk for COVID exposure and transmission because of occupational or institutional setting.  (for example – health care workers, teachers, day care staff and grocery workers)    If you are unsure if you can receive a Booster or if one is available, call your health care provider, or one of the pharmacies.

    With the FDA fully approving Pfizer vaccine and Moderna seeking approval, we continue to see employers as well as government entities and even private employers mandating the need for vaccinations.  The State of California has mandated that any provider who receives Federal funds requires that all of their employees be vaccinated by October.    They have also mandated all health care providers to become vaccinated or be terminated from employment.    All of this is being done to protect our health care workers and patients who are being treated.

    Please continue to wear your masks, be aware of your surroundings and even outside, if you are in crowded situations, mask up!   Wash your hands frequently, use hand sanitizer and take precautions.    The Delta variant is out there, very virulent, ready to strike and given that we still have 15% of our citizens not vaccinated over the age of 12 and all of our young children, it still has “hosts” it can latch onto.   We need to try and manage this disease as we are not going to control it!  Again, please consider getting your flu shot so that your immunity is up and your body is not susceptible to infection or any lung damage is done.

    Thanks

    Di

    Photos

  • 2021-08-10 Renee Hyde – President for the Day

    As our President Pam entered this morning looking refreshed and at ease, she took her place in the back of the room and we were called to order by Past President Renee Hyde, who was the first of several Past Presidents Pam will call on to lead our meetings.

    The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Maureen to a small but mighty crowd….   Our Inspiration was a quote by Margaret Mead:  “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world:  indeed, it is the only that that ever has….”

    This was followed by JP leading us in our Song this morning, “We Are Rotary” complete with words to follow and background music by Sister Sledge, while everyone seemed to be moving to the beat!

    Visiting Rotarians and Guests were ………………… I am sorry to report that this volunteer Scribe (Di) did not get the names of our visitors and for that I apologize!

    Carol Martin reported on the Adopt a Road project which Past President Bill supported.   He did adopt a road and has signs to prove it “thanks to the Windsor Rotary Club” – in the area of Shiloh and Faught.   Thanks Past President Bill for doing that.    You too can adopt a road in your area, help keep it clean and have signs posted acknowledging your good works……………..

    Club Socials: 

    • since the surveys showed our Club members wanted more socials, we aim to please.   There will be at least one per month of the that month’s Birthday Bunch – the group can get together for Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch or cocktails – this month we salute Lauren Antoni, Bill Bolster, Heather Cullen, Daniel Myers, Laura Buhrer, Art Diaz, Brian Ling, Bill Rash and Maureen Merrill who are our August birthday bunch.    Sandie asked that Maureen be the first ringleader to get the group together and have a social.
    •  We also discussed the “Rotary Bar” so named for our intrepid leader at the time, Jack Hyde – music is coming back on the Green and we will need volunteers for our first Rotary Bar on August 26th.   Those who are willing to help set up let Renee Hyde know and be at her house that day at 3 pm for set up.   Once it is determined how efficient a group can be to set up another time may be selected.   But the first one, we need you there at 3 pm.

    Recognitions:   

    • this is a time honored tradition in Rotary to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, birth of kids or grandkids, graduations, great efforts or “rat on someone”!   It is a way to get to know our members and have some fun while raising money for Rotary International projects (polio or other), our Windsor Rotary Community Foundation or to put against your fines.    Our masterful and clever Finemaster, Leslie Lewis stepped forward and after a few false starts to celebrate birthdays (they were not present..) she did honor Bill Bolster for his birthday on the 8th – seems JB and Carol took him pizza, a cake and a balloon – we discovered the Past President Bill was not at home but zooming in from Disneyland.   He admitted flying to Anaheim.   He will give $100 to our Windsor Rotary Community Foundation.
    • Laura Buhrer was celebrated for her birthday (it is today folks!!!) and so we sang to her.   We discovered she is a twin, older by 2 minutes and admitted her son and daughter-in-law will be making her dinner – she will donate $62 (do you supposed that number has significance???)  to our Windsor Rotary Community Foundation.   Laura shares the day with Daniel Myers who was not there today.   Happy birthday Daniel.
    • Art Diaz who was there has a birthday August 21st and will donate $62 (looking good Art )   And Leslie reminded Mike Merrill that wife Maureen will celebrate her birthday on August 24th.
    • Leslie then went on to fine Maureen Merrill for her Editorial in the Press Democrat “Close to Home” regarding the need for civil conversations.  Although she is not sure it worked, she will donate $100 plus another $70 for her upcoming birthday for a total of $170 to the Windsor Rotary Community Foundation.  Mike Merrill was fined $10 for the reminder Leslie gave him for Maureen’s birthday later this month.
    • Joan Mora was fined for some of her upcoming travels…. She leaves Friday – something about going to a Giants game, going to Las Vegas to see Bruno Mars and then Utah for river rafting………………   her donation?   $100 to John Lewis Fellow

    New Badges:      Past President Renee welcomed Jamie Williams and Mike Freedman and let them know they have new badges.    Glad to have you both!

    “Passport to Success”:

    Past President Renee Hyde provided each of us the new Passport to Success booklet that was developed by her with help from Tom Boylan with the graphics.   The booklets are fantastic and the idea great – she explained that our previous system of new members going from a Red to Blue Badge has been discontinued as many felt like second class citizens during this process.   The idea is for our new members to be successful, help them, make them feel welcome and valued.  This Passport looking booklet has them over the first Quarter getting opportunity to meet with President and the Chairs of our important committees so they can talk one on one and focus on that committee.   It will build understanding of what our Club is about and give new members a real chance to establish themselves on a committee that means something to them.   We will find out their areas of interest……………..

    Membership:    Past President Renee Hyde is our Membership Chair and she discussed the Power of Three and how our Club used to have the “3 Amigos”  – there is  power in numbers and putting our heads together brings results.  Renee asked us who in the Club were the sales types, who were the ones who like to mentor and lastly who are those who will do the paperwork and get the process complete.   After dividing into those 3 groups we made groups of 3 or “Tres Amigos” to discuss who we thought would be good to invite to one of our meetings.   Renee and Maureen did a short role play explaining WE DO NOT INVITE THEM TO JOIN ROTARY BUT TO COME JOIN US FOR BREAKFAST, get to know us and see what and who we are……   the trios met and Renee asked that we email her our ideas to renee.hyde.ngjs@statefarm.com

    Maureen shared with us that in 34 years she has brought in the most members (Yay!!!) and it just the act of inviting them to breakfast.

    Next Week’s Speaker is Sarah Keiser, from Wild Oak Hollow who will share with us tales of clearing fire zones with sheep.

    Our meeting was closed by Past President Renee with this quote….. “Coming Together is a Beginning ,Keeping Together is Progress, Working Together is Success!”

    Go out and do some Rotarian…………….   See you next week

    Di

    COVID UPDATE

    NEWS FLASH!!!!   Governor Newsom mandates all health care workers are to become fully vaccinated by Sept. 30th.   We continue in Sonoma County to have a mask mandate for use indoors, regardless of our vaccination status.

    Total Cases:        34,023     (last week 32,880)           Recovered:    31,439    (last week  31,100)             Active Cases: 2247   (last week 1450) – this is 797 more cases than previous week and almost 4 times growth from the previous week increase.

    New Cases:            We are seeing an increase in new cases and breakthrough in the vaccinated – people are out and about and socializing without masks and there is a crisis in our hospitals with overwhelming admissions due to COVID.   Last Tuesday we saw 406 new cases and yesterday, 270.    These are huge jumps in numbers…….

    Hospitalized: 70 confirmed and 3 suspected    (last week 59 confirmed and 3 suspected)     This alarming increase in hospitalizations means we are taxing our hospitals, our ER’s and putting a strain on medical services that are needed by others not fighting COVID.   We have a labor shortage even in health care and we are seeing it in are health care settings with positions open, people not applying and those working on overwhelm.    Wait times in ER’s have increased dramatically due to COVID.

    Vaccination information….  As of August 9th,  633,286  residents in Sonoma County have received the vaccine (last week 626,035).     71% of our populations 12 and older are fully vaccinated and approximately 79% have received at least 1 dose.     We are beginning to see large corporations put into effect hiring requirements that all are vaccinated and deadlines for current staff to become vaccinated.   The Governor has now issued a new mandate that all health care workers in the State must be fully vaccinated by Sept. 30th and previously issued a mandate for all state government employees to become vaccinated beginning August 2nd and implemented by August 23rd

    Please be aware that effective Tuesday, August 3rd, the State Public Health Officer did issue a directive to wear masks indoors regardless of your vaccination status.   I realize that many people have very strong opinions on vaccinations and even stronger about mandates and requirements for hiring.   However, our children under 12 cannot get vaccines nor do our little ones wear masks; unless we surround these little ones in totally vaccinated individuals they are susceptible.    Children are dying and many children’s  hospitals are full of kids with COVID.   A vaccination is still a personal choice, but if you do not do it for you, do it for others!   We have frail elders and immunocompromised individuals who need us to mask up and get vaccinated.   Think about others please!!

    Thanks

    Di