Windsor Rotary Archived Bulletins

Author: Envira Gallery

2021-11-09 Meeting Bulletin

Mike Martini – Taft Street Winery & Support for WHS Vineyard Academy

Good Day fellow Rotarians and friends and family who are reading our weekly bulletin. Today’s minutes are from TUESDAY, November 9, 2021.

Past President Ed Turner rang the bell @ 7:30am. President Pam coordinated various Past Presidents to conduct one meeting a month during her presidency year. It has been 27 years since Ed was the Windsor Rotary President 1994-95, but he appeared calm and comfortable in the position. Ed announced in honor of Veterans Day we would celebrate our veterans in today’s meeting.

Doug Williams lead us in Pledge of Allegiance

Celebration of Veterans:
Mike Merrill acknowledged we have had some great speakers to honor our veterans, however, it was decided our best recognition would be to hear from the veterans in our club:
I want to make my apologies in advance for any misinformation or something left out, I was so absorbed in their stories, I failed my duties of writing it down. My gratitude to you veterans.

Mike Merrill – Marine Corps: Mike attended Justice Academy, was stationed at Camp Pendleton where he assisted & guided Marines and worked with court marshals. Mike did a tour in Vietnam outside Da Nang as Judge Advocate and in Southern Ca. as a JAD from where he retired.

Brian Williams – Marine Corps: 1996 – 2000

John Hackenburg – Naval Air: 1969 – 1996 John’s training began in Florida ending at Moffett Field in CA. In between he did 2 tours one in Japan playing chicken with Russian warships, glad he was a winner.

Scott Bonin – Navy: Scott was trained to be a dentist while in the Navy. He interned at Balboa Hospital in SF with oral surgeons, and he discovered oral surgery was not the direction he wanted to pursue. Scott served in Japan and San Diego in a mobile unit taking care of military personnel on ships.

Bill Bolster – Navy: Bill joined the Navy ROTC when he attended college, he participated in “Summer Cruises” and attended Sub school, he completed 2 sets of duty, one out of Pearl Harbor and one from San Diego. He mentioned his subs were diesel powered not nuclear, there is a story about him banging the bang barge, but have to leave that for another day.
Mike Merrill concluded this portion of our Veterans recognition thanking all our Veterans for their service to the country.
We will be having a speaker in the near future to share updates on the “Windsor Veterans Village”. Stay tuned.

Back to our regular meeting agenda: JB Leep, Carol Martin & Sandie Krutz divided the room in thirds & lead us in a round of Row Row Rotary, (row your boat) – Fun, and pretty easy for us.

Inspiration: Sue Nelson
Sue stated she feels lucky to have 34 years with the Rotary Club of Windsor. Sue (a charter member) originally joined Rotary for the business opportunities, however, early on, December 1987, she participated in a Toy’s for Tots “wrapping party” when she entered the room at the Airport Business Center she discovered 100’s of presents to be wrapped.

She sat next to Marie Coakley, an “elderly lady”, (mid 40’s) charter member and longtime resident of Windsor. Sue relayed they talked about everything, the town, Rotary, herself & family, by the end of the event Sue realized this was more than a business opportunity, a new door was opened for her and it changed her perspective of what Rotary was all about, community, service & family. It is a moment she will not forget.

No Visiting Rotarians:

Guests of Rotarians:
Mike Martini: Taft Street Winery, Barney Kaufman: Vineyard Academy-WHS, Londa Faber.  Hopefully last visit as guest – Monica McCabe, Last visit as guest – Larry McCabe, Last visit as guest – Mitch Grandi, Last visit as guest – Dev Sodagar. Yay! returning Rotary member, Kathy Williams soon to be member. AND our guests for our recognition of Student of the Year: Student of the Year – Stephanie Melendez, Proud Mom Fanny, and English Teacher Krista Raszler, WHS.

Rotarian of the Month: Bill Bolster
Bill announced we have the opportunity to RING THE BELL, for Salvation Army at Walmart: Saturday, December 11^th & Saturday, December 18^th. Bill sent a signup sheet around the room; if you missed it, contact Bill for more information.

Daniel Myers presented the Student of Year: Stephanie Melendez, Digital Focus
Daniel explained it is student of year, as one student is chosen from each focus area at Windsor High School to receive recognition.

Stephanie was introduced by her AVID English teacher Krista Raszler, Ms. Raszler first met Stephanie in 10^th grade, and she noted Stephanie’s interest ranged from Star Wars to the Oakland A’s. Ms. Raszler commented that Stephanie was a little shy in her first presentation but so pleased with her growth. She admitted she frequently calls on Stephanie to present first to display an example. Ms. Raszler described Stephanie as: Kind, intellectually open minded, helpful to students and a pleasure to teach.

Stephanie is 17 years old, a senior attending Digital Academy at WHS, she was prepared with a written presentation that I would need actual copy to do justice. Stephanie stated that along with her digital and academic education she had gathered Life Lessons, she sees her teachers as mentors, and role models, people she is comfortable to go to and share any situation.
Stephanie was asked what project she was most proud of. Stephanie responded that a full year of no in-person school was challenging, that she was proud of the development in herself but also proud of the development of other students in her classes. Stephanie’s presentation was filled with gratitude for family, teachers and community.
Fanny, Stephanie’s Mother expressed how proud she is of her daughter and her gratitude to Rotary for “Student of the Year” recognition and support.

Speaker:  JB introduced Mike Martini founder of Taft Street Winery in Sebastopol. Mike was Mayor of Santa Rosa 2001-2002, active in numerous community programs. Taft Street Winery partners with Vineyard Academy at WHS by producing wine from the grapes tended and harvested by students & volunteers.
Mike first teased President Pam on her good idea of getting others to do her work by having past presidents preside a meeting a month. On a serious note Mike stated Rotary is an asset to all the cities Rotary Clubs are present.

Taft Street Winery was started in 1979 in a garage in Oakland; it was started like the renegade Bordeaux winemakers known as “Garagistes. Taft Street Winery continues in the garagistes traditions to this day, producing limited production, handcrafted wines from select Russian River Valley vineyards.

Mike affirmed wine tastes best with friends, food, and it is free, it seems there may have been a few of these parties, with suggestions he should start a winery. Starting a winery requires money so the conversation usually ended, until one day someone stood up and ask “how much” ? This person stated he would not invest any money if all interested partners did not also invest. I am assuming funds were found as Taft Street Winery was founded.

Almost all businesses are started with Passion & Ignorance and faced with challenges. Happy to say 2021 will be the 40^th harvest for Taft Street Winery; we strive to stay true to Fun, Family & Friends.
Taft Street faces same issues of all businesses; fires in August had a huge impact, & labor issues.
The backbone of the wine & hospitality business is the optimistic people in the vineyards and winery, looking forward to the next harvest.
Taft Street Winery has been a proud partner of the Windsor High School Vineyard Academy since 2011. Each year, we crush and ferment the grapes farmed by the students and help promote sales of Windsor Jaguar Zinfandel. The last release was 2018 and 2019 – 2021 is in barrels. All work is donated, 100% of proceeds minus taxes and fees goes to Vineyard Academy.
Mike invited Barney Kaufman from Vineyard Academy to add comments. Barney stated the academy has harvested 10 tons over the past ten years, 1 ton per year; 1 ton of grapes can produce 60 cases of wine. The Vineyard Academy has received $100,000. In proceeds, $38,000.00 has been awarded in student scholarships.

Students of Vineyard Academy farm Old Vine Zin vineyards at Reiman Lane & Starr Rd, Windsor. It is rumored that the first planting of this vineyard was in 1850, although there are many old vines in the vineyard, it is not known if any are original planting. Volunteers, including a few Rotarians, help students with the harvest, and grapes are delivered to Taft Street Winery. Students are not involved in the fermenting or bottling process.

The wonderful label was designed by WHS students.

Vineyard Academy displays opportunities in wine & hospitality business, in addition to vineyard management, & winemakers, marketing, financial, HR & sales.
Several previous students are now working in the hospitality business.
JB Leep added, “It is excellent wine”

Closing remarks:
Past President thanked Mike Martini for presenting to us, thanked guests, & Rotarians for attending,
Reminded us to remember and thank a veteran and do something Rotarian,

Respectfully submitted,
Pegi Ball

February 13, 2024
2022-02-08 Meeting Bulletin
DGE Jennifer Strong Inspires Us

Scribe notes by Barbara McChesney

Welcome from President Elect and guest President Brian Ling.

Pledge of Allegiance by District Governor Nominee Tom Boylan
SONG – Bill Arnone sang ‘Let it be’ in keeping with all that is happening now.

Visiting Rotarian: Jennifer Strong, District Governor Elect, member of Rotary Club of Lakeport with a classifaction of financial planning.

Tom Boylan introduced his guest, Jeff Cave.

Announcements – Brian announced the very exciting news that meeting rules being rescinded as of Friday, Feb.11 so we return to Charlie’s Tuesday, Feb.15th. The hybrid option will still be available, and the club will follow all proper protocols regarding masks and vaccinations.  Look forward to seeing you all in person.

SPARK SUCCESS TEAM updates:
- Happy Hour bundle charcuterie board is hot off the press! Order today!!!
- Register for the event at windsorrotary.org
- Beautiful business cards and postcards are available from Kurt and Bill for distribution.
- Register by Feb. 18th for an opportunity to win one of 5 happy hour bundles prepared by caterer extraordinaire Pegi Ball.
- Donate a bottle of wine valued at $35 or more for the live auction wine bundle. Jo Timmsen will be happy to collect your wine at our next in person meeting.
- Catherine Hanron has 15 silent auctions and needs more. Do you or your friends have an interesting item, service, or activity that would make a perfect silent auction item?
- Create an in home virtual event watch party. It would be a lot more fun to participate with a group and encourage each other to bid on all the live and silent auction items. Get your friends together!!
- Team will email a fillable wine form and a sponsor form. These forms are also available at windsorrotary.org.
- Donation total as of today is $20,000! Woohoo!!! Ask your contacts for donations or if you are too shy, contact Maureen and her sponsor team will do the asking for you. Remember our club and Senator Mike McGuire will take good care of our sponsors.
- Share out text messages from Kurt about the event with friends and family.
- Share Facebook messages on your own FB page. Find posts about the event at https://www.facebook.com/windsorrotary and share!
- Online bidding opens on March 12th.
Club Social next week on Thursday, Feb. 17 at Volo Chocolate in Windsor. Joan Mora will be sending out more information.

Maureen bedazzled the club wearing her beautiful sequin top in honor of introducing the shining star and next District Governor Jennifer Strong. Jennifer is a natural leader within Rotary, her business and community. She contributes personally and through her professional work.  Jennifer is a pilot and looks forward to her ability to visit District 5130 clubs quickly.  Check out her bio online to learn more.

Jennifer’s presentation was both inspiring and informative, sharing information about her history as a Rotarian and some of the exciting projects she has led.  Planting 3,000 trees in one day in Lake county was a highlight and included our own club members Wally Krutz and Bill Bolster.

Ken Moulton was foremost in Jennifer’s thoughts with her beautiful acknowledgment of Ken’s recent passing. Rotary is a family, a very big family and Ken was a pillar of Windsor Rotary as well as clubs far and wide. She described Ken as a true gentleman and leader. She took to heart him telling her “leadership is a privilege and take that opportunity for leadership beyond your club”.

Jennifer is very humbled and excited to move into role as DG for the “best district in the world”.  She shared with great enthusiasm her joy that she is becoming DG the same year as the first woman International President in 118 years.  She introduced the club to Jennifer Jones from Windsor, Ontario,Canada via a video clip. Jennifer Jones shared her vision and theme of ‘Imagine’ the possibilities we can all do through Rotary. “You may say that I’m a dreamer but I’m not the only one”.  Make dreams a reality. Taken from the Broadway show Rent, we have 525600 minutes in a year.  How are we each going to use our minutes?

Jennifer shared her thoughts that we are all given a super hero cape when we join Rotary. We can each make a difference and help inspire one other person to imagine something different. She will be challenging us in her year to focus on the environment, focus on our brand in the community, and to tell our Rotary stories.  We can effect change in the world.  Jennifer’s goal is to be proud of the time she will have spent on this earth.  Jennifer read the poem The Dash by Linda Ellis.  President Pam mentioned that this was a favorite of Ken’s as well.

Jennifer closed her presentation by answering questions from club members.

President Elect Brian’s closing remarks:

Thank you Jennifer, our District Governor Elect.  I learned the importance of being a Rotary District Governor when I was a kid and John Withers, a friend and neighbor, was elected Governor of our District from my Dad’s Santa Rosa West Rotary Club.  I am so appreciative to have Michael Juric, Maureen Merrill, and Mike Merrill as Past District Governors with us, plus Jennifer Strong and Tom Boylan as future Governors with us,and knowing that our 6th Governor Ken Moulton is happily watching everything that we are doing too.  There probably isn’t another Rotary meeting world wide that has such tremendous participation with such great leadership.

My closing quote comes from George Dutton who is the President-Elect of the Healdsburg Sunrise Rotary Club and going back to my days in Active 20-30 #50 prior to my joining the Rotary Club of Windsor.  George’s legendary quote is “You will get out of 20-30 (Rotary) as much as you put into it.”  I’m inspired by how much our District Governors have put into Rotary and how much they enjoy what they get from being a Rotarian.

Our WRCF Funds at Work – Report from Susan Cole
On Monday, February 7, members of the Rotary Club of Windsor gathered at the North Bay Met Academy to watch the installation of a “Blue Barrel Water Catchment System” by the students of North Bay Met. The project was funded by our Windsor Rotary Community Foundation, and guided by friends from Daily Acts.

The North Bay Met Academy school garden is watered by long hoses from potable water. In our current drought, and as a more sustainable practice, the students installed a demonstration rainwater collection system to water their garden. Using rainwater slows down storm water, saves potable water, and offers others in the community an opportunity to see what we can do to preserve our water resources.

The project consists of an 8 barrel rainwater collection and storage system. It will collect rainwater from the roof of one of the Windsor Oaks Academy portable classrooms and store it for use in the dry season for the school garden.

Here’s what the project can accomplish:
1.   Provide irrigation water for the school garden (which had lovely lettuce plants growing and flourishing on Monday during our visit)
2.   Present an example of sustainable water use for the Windsor community
3.   Demonstrate sustainable design principles in a changing climate
4.   Promote healthy lifestyles and environmental design principles at school
5.   Offer a hands-on learning opportunity for students to connect to the real world
6.   Create math and science lesson opportunities

Our Club members watched as the students handled the 8 barrels, drilled the holes for connecting them together, and planned how to connect the pvc piping that completes the system.
Here are photographs of your Rotary Community Service funds at work.
February 13, 2024
2021-11-02 Meeting Bulletin
You Can Do It Too – International Service Opportunities

The bell rang and President Pam Moulton quickly handed off the mic to Daniel Myers for a salute to the flag.

Heather Cullen checked in from Zoom world for a “My Country tis of Thee” recital.

Photos provided by Sue Nelson, and scattered thought of words spoken by Tom Boylan.

Sandi Krutz gave us a Rotary moment of her adventures to Brazil and the connection that she made with Brazil back when she was in the Rotary Club of Belmont. Back then she helped to fund a fire truck, the same truck she had a chance to see when she went to Brazil to dedicate an operating room paid for with a Rotary Grant during her year as Windsor Club President.

Rotarian Guests:
Pres Pam introduced Greg And Lili Freitas from Petaluma Sunrise, our speakers for the day.

Guests of Rotarians:
The list included past member Mitch Grandi introduced by Bill Conklin.
Sandi Krutz says Monica and Larry McCabe are due to leave the guest role behind and join us forever.
Londa Favre with Providence Health Care is a past Rotary Club of Sacramento member looking for a new club… Windsor says “Come home to Windsor”.

Announcements:

Rotarian of the Month for November goes to Bill Bolster for all he does and has done for our club, except singing.

Catherine Hanron was highlighted because she took a spill last week while playing in the senior hockey league… ok maybe that is not the truth, but she is on the mend.

Chris Landwehr is looking for scribes, and I hope he finds them. Let him know if you believe the pen is mightier than the song meister.

Bill Bolster was handed a microphone and reminded us that last week he failed to bring up the interim Rotary Bar tenders, JB Leep and Carol Martin, who spent two years behind the bar coordinating and mixing drinks. On another note, Bill is seeking youth exchange host families.

JB Leep let us know the new website is up and running. Go to windsorrotary,org and have a look around.

Sue Nelson reminded us that the Rotary Club of Greenville, California took a devastating loss to all the members of that club and we sent a donation, which Sue says she is excited to relay the thanks of that club to all of us for the help.

Susan Cole and Sue Nelson are reviewing the paperwork for potential beneficiaries of this year’s fundraiser. If you would like to work with the selection committee, let them know.

Kurt Mitchler and Bill Conklin stood to give us a review of Bill’s trip to a cave in Arizona where he realized our fundraiser is all about the “Paella Festival” at the Mary Agatha Furth center. Volunteers stepping up to chair various positions include Catherine Hanron for Silent Auction, Barbara McChesney for Live Auction, Patrick Dunn for Sponsorship, Tom Hassur for the event location chair, Steve Klick the head chef, John Hackenburg the wine, Tom Boylan marketing, Carol Martin and Ed Turner for the finances, and Michael Juric for the emcee role.

Susan Cole brought an embraceable baby polar bear gift for Pres Pam from her trip to the Northern most corner of the globe. But I wonder how there could be a corner on a round globe.

Ed Turner brought his gift to Pres Pam all the way from Hilton Head, South Carolina, where for the first time in over two decades he decided to use his time share that he bought way back when. Killer biscuit mix and homemade soap were the appropriate gifts.

Diane Brabetz just got back from Casa Morada in Mexico and brought worry dolls and more to Pres Pam.

Michael Juric returned from Disneyland with his three-year-old grandson. He had a variety of items from the happiest place on Earth and managed to hand off mouse ears and a pirate hat along with diamond earrings from Fantasyland.

John Hackenburg called out a few Rotarians for celebrating their birthdays, including Beth Smith, Doug Williams, Susan Cole, Leah Hansen, Pres Pam called the money maker off because there are too many people open to being recognized and fined.

Program

Greg and Lili Freitas dropped in to fill in our club on what is going on for the Rotary Friendship Exchange and the Rotary Peace Centers Fellowship. Lili took the mic and quizzed our club to see how many have been involved in international travels and service projects. Many of us have been involved and the introduction to the programs will no doubt add to the list.

Rotary International is now focused on the Rotary Peace Fellowship to help build sustainable peace around the globe. With eight universities and more than 800 peace fellow graduates the impact is now being felt around the globe. Approximately 130 people per year are selected to partake in the program. The participants are not new to the peace struggle. Most have had experience in dealing with conflict resolution.

We can get involved by working with the District Committee and participate in the interviews with those looking to find conflict resolution in areas of the world where people are caught in a web of violence, and aggression against women. If you are interested in participating, connect with Lili.

We then went on to discuss the opportunities to join a Rotary Fellowship. Some of our club members are already there. Lili shared that she and Greg are members of the Rotary Travel Fellowship, which has given them many opportunities to visit and stay with Rotarians around the globe.

Greg Freitas is the District Chair for Rotary Friendship Exchange. He let those in our club who have participated in past exchanges know how grateful he is for their efforts.

A slide show gave us a view of the surroundings the past exchanges have stayed at. According to Greg, the places you go to are not always the tourism variety, but rather a look at places off the beaten path.

Windsor has had a good number of our members on various exchange trips. Greg’s role is to help coordinate the journeys and promote participation among members in our district. He let us know that the next trip is going to India, and if you’d like to participate, let him know.

We closed the meeting with a review of the Four Way Test.

COVID UPDATE from Diane Brabetz

NEWS FLASH: FDA approves vaccine (Pfizer) for children 5-11 years of age; a series of 2 shots (1/3 the dose of an adult) and it appears will be available this week or next in Pediatric offices, clinics and MD offices. BOOSTER SHOTS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE!!!! 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: 41,213 (2 weeks ago 40,106)
- Recovered: 39,675 (2 weeks ago 38,593)
- Active Cases: 1132 (2 weeks ago 1115)
- Deaths: 406 (2 weeks ago 398)
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: 460 new cases this past week (2 weeks ago 333 new cases)
- Hospitalized: 24 confirmed and 3 suspected (2 weeks ago 26 confirmed and 0 suspected)
Vaccination information…. As of Oct. 31st, 740,522 residents in Sonoma County have received the vaccine (2 weeks ago 708,480).    79% of our populations 12 and older are fully vaccinated and approximately 86% 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 longterm 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.   Let me know if you need my help.

We were extremely surprised and pleased to see how careful Mexico is being during our trip to our home in Quintana Roo (the State that includes Cancun).   There were temperature machines at every entrance to stores, restaurants and facilities.   Hand sanitizer was squirted in your hand as you entered and every store had an entrance and an exit and they only allowed one entrance.   We did not see one single person in our travels without a mask on.

So, 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 still out there, very virulent, ready to strike and given that we still have 14% 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
February 13, 2024
2022-02-01 Meeting Bulletin

Memories of Past Governor Ken & FutureVisions

Meeting Notes by Mike Merrill

Past President Sue Nelson advised that our Past Club President (2002-03) and Past District Governor (2007-08) Ken Moulton had passed away peacefully over the weekend, after a long battle with ALS. President Pam is doing OK at home.

Pledge of Allegiance: Susan Cole

Song Leader: Bill Bolster – “If I had a Hammer” – by Pete Ziegler… incidentally a friend of Ken Moulton!

Thoughts for the day were of Ken and his service to Rotary and the Windsor Rotary Club, his many friends and family – and of course “those Cal Bears” that he served so admirably on the gridiron. A “good” man always moving to “great” — Ken was committed to Rotary Education and his passion for the local IFL leadership development program he initiated in District 5130. And he had a little frivolity along the way – like wearing a grass skirt and seashells at the Pink Elephant Tavern in Monte Rio at Past Pres. Mauren’s 2002 debunking; leading to an infamous run with the WRC men’s annual chorus line (no more information)!

Guests of Rotarians: Jeff Cave, guest of Tom Boylan; Welcome Jeff and we look forward to seeing you again!

JB announced that he was engaging more with young people in embracing recycling practice at home and generally. Help is always appreciated – and fun! Please Contact JB!

“Spark Success!” Fundraiser March 26. The blowout preparation for our fundraiser rockets ahead. Here are a few items that need to be addressed: [1] more live auction items are needed — Catherine Hannon has plenty of space in her storage area [2] and more wine contributions are needed as well –Contact Jo Timson! [3] Also we need lodging locations in Grass Valley and Newport Beach to round out live event packages.

You all come now – which means “Register Now!”

Speaker / Program: Jaque Salyer – Local manager for Habitat For Humanity in Sonoma County: HFH builds houses for poverty level persons that can be for short periods or a lifetime – Houses in Sonoma County are well above poverty level resources ($100K) so the need is great and at this point never ending. HFH runs a Resource Store that helps with home living items sells some items to the public as means of generating income – it’s a good deal shopping opportunity! HFH also, funds and conducts neighborhood clean-ups /revitalizations/ and critical repairs. They have been in business since 1947. Their goal is to create clean, safe and decent places to live with the active participation of the donees.

February 13, 2024
2021-10-26 Meeting Bulletin

PDG Bob Rogers Talks About PolioPlus

The ring of the bell came at 7:30 with the wild haired President Pam Moulton residing over a Mad Hatter assembly. The word went out, but not everyone realized there was a need for something other than rain gear.
Photos provided by Sue Nelson, words by Catherine Hanron’s relief scribe, Tom Boylan.

Rotary Moment:

Bill Bolster shared a Jack Hyde moment with some history of the Rotary Bar. Jack wrote to tell us his side of the story, including that the first two years of the “bar” were actually spent selling lemonade. The paltry sum of $500 for several years work was about to cause Jack to send a donation to the club so he could stop doing all the work, for so little return. Then the tide turned.
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The Town of Windsor asked if the Rotary Club would like to sell drinks… margaritas at the booth. A new purpose unfolded in Jack’s life and we went on to create the frozen concoctions for two more years, before the margarita machine broke and we had to resort to opening a full-blown bar.

Jack’s ten years as the chief bartender helped to amass more than $195,000 that went toward out International efforts. Better still is that the bar stayed in the hands of another Hyde, Renee Hyde has spent countless hours overseeing the continued operation and the dollars keep rolling in to help fund our efforts for a better world.

Such a great story was then followed by Bill becoming the song Meister and leading us in a modified version of Wasted Away in Margaritaville. Some people claim that there’s a Bolster to blame… but we know, it’s our own damn fault.

Rotarian Guests included PDG Bob Rogers, who would take the lectern to tell us about his efforts at polio eradication.
Guests of Rotarians included Dev Sodagar, Kathy Williams (mother of Brian Williams), Mitch Grandi, Larry McCabe.

Announcements:

Michael Juric took the bow for the last meeting of the month as the Rotarian of the Month.
There was a familiar ring to the pinky thing when John Hackenburg stepped up to promote the reason we should all consider a manicure for the small finger on the hand. Children in the Far East were the ones that wore a purple pinky to show they were vaccinated against polio. John went through the various tables performing his own purple finger regimen, and asking for a minimum donation of $25 to go toward eradicating polio for good. If you want to be a bigger supporter for ending polio, you are asked to go to EndPolioNow.org and make the commitment to send $100 annually to the End Polio Now fund. This will make you a member of the PolioPlus Society. A good and noble cause for Rotarians everywhere.

Here are the links to some special documents for signing up for Polio Plus Society.

Polio Plus Society Rotarian District 5130 Flyer (view or download)

Polio Plus District 5130 Commitment Letter (download – docx)

Joan Mora let us know that the train has left the station, but the memories are lingering. If you missed the chance to get on board, you missed a fun club social on the SMART TRAIN… Joan will keep us posted on the future opportunity to mingle, pre-Kringle.

Wally and Sandie Krutz stepped forward to be recognized for becoming “Major Donors” for Rotary. The dynamic duo made the donation to take them over the top, or to the top. Major Donors make a commitment to Rotary and the Krutz family has shown that commitment in more ways than most.

Renee Hyde was making up for failing to present a present to Pres Pam last week and wound up bringing her jewelry and a framed wrist band from Renee’s journey south to see the Stones… not Stonehenge, but just as old.

Program:

PDG Bob Rogers was introduced as the Zone 26 & 27 PolioPlus Chair, which is appropriate in so many ways, including that he is a survivor of polio. Bob got his start as a polio leader in Rotary when he created the event ride for polio, which raised more than $120,000, and was then matched by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. In a two-year period, Bob is credited for raising more than $220,000 to fight polio.

Our presentation included a brief history of polio and a snapshot of where we are today. Since I wasn’t prepared to take notes, I just enjoyed the fact that the wild polio virus was down to two, make that TWO, cases worldwide. There are variants of the polio virus, which are still somewhat prevalent in primarily two counties, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, but recent approvals by the Afghan Taliban have shown that they too are willing to eradicate polio when they allow vaccine providers to continue their work in Afghanistan.

Please consider being a member of “Every Rotarian Every Year” group and sign up to make a donation to PolioPlus at EndPolioNow.org. Your donation could be the tipping point for the elimination of polio for good.

Pre-bell at the end of the meeting we heard from Buddha;

            Whatever you think, you become

            Whatever you feel, you attract

            Whatever you imagine, you create

February 13, 2024
2022-01-25 Meeting Bulletin

Chocolate Extravaganza

Our meeting began in Chat Rooms set up by Michael Juric where we brainstormed ideas for live and silent auction items.   Good ideas were captured from Chat and sent to Live and Silent Auction Chairs.

CHOCOLATE EXTRAVAGANZA! THERE’S NO SUCH THING AS TOO MUCH CHOCOLATE

Pledge of Allegiance – Catherine Hanron

Song: JB Leep offered us “Day-o”, a song by Harry Belefonte, also known as the Banana Boat Song. The kindest review offers that we did “not terrific”.

No visiting Rotarians or guests today. 37 participants, club members only

Carol Martin offered us her Rotary moment. During the 2018 fundraising process, she was moved by all the people seeking funding for their projects. She loved the Kidspree event where children were offered school supplies, clothes and services to start the school year. Kidspree was selected for the Fund-a-Need portion of our fundraiser. They were seeking two or three thousand dollars. But as this part of the event began, the money mounted up. There was such excitement in the room. There was tremendous energy and excitement and in the end, $18,600 was raised! Carol’s moment was, “this is what Rotary can do!” She recognized how powerful Rotary can be. The force of energy of a Rotary Club was amazing.

President Pam recognized and thanked Chris Landwehr for being January Rotarian of the Month

Leslie Lewis returned with her cheerful and always humorous recognitions and fines. Birthdays, anniversaries, spouses birthdays, trips, and one of 43 District-wide Rotarians of the Year – it was an abundant field of fines. Pegi Ball turned the tables and had Leslie acknowledge that she had a new Mazda CX5, for which Pegi fined Leslie.

JB Leep took us on a tour of our new website, windsorrotary.org. The goal was to have a calendar which always showed what was scheduled, access to all members’ phones and e-mails, and our Bulletins posted and available.   This website, hosted by DACdb, meets all those criteria and more.   Go !!   Visit and become familiar with our website.

Announcements:

President Pam announced that Domingo, a former special exchange student, has relocated to Windsor and is looking for handyman jobs. Hi, Domingo, from your Rotary family.

Jo Timmsen announced that she is putting together the Live Auction item of an “Instant Wine Cellar” for our March 26 event. She is looking for 50-60 bottles of wine, each a $35 value or above. Each club member is asked to donate at least one bottle of wine for our Instant Wine Cellar.

Michael Juric and Maureen Merrill offered their warm thoughts to each other about sharing time together with no agenda items for once. They were brought together in this way by President Pam’s idea of Rotarians sharing time together outside of meetings just to get to know each other better. Michael said he had known Maureen for 30 years and she was a dear friend and (sort of) family member.   It was a treat and a gift to have lunch together. Maureen echoed those ideas and said lunch together was nice and she was grateful to Pam for creating this great experience. Next week we’ll hear from Mike Merrill and John How.

JB briefly introduced our guests, Jeff and Susan Mall, owners and creators of Volo Chocolates.

And, we were off and running in our quest to learn about chocolate making. Jeff took us on a virtual tour of their tiny (500 square feet) factory in Windsor (The Shiloh Center) where the chocolate beans are crushed and processed in refiners. Last year they made 6 tons of chocolate. We learned that chocolate is grown in different parts of the world and each region has its own terroir, just like grapes.   Jeff and Susan source chocolate beans from both Guatemala and Haiti, and they have distinctly different characteristics. Jeff described the various flavors of the chocolates they make, and everyone on the zoom was oohing and aaaahing. They are doing custom zoom virtual chocolate tastings now, and our committee chairs for our March 26 Spark Success event were quick to ask them if they would consider donating a zoom chocolate tasting. Looks promising.

Susan Mall covered the health benefits of chocolate – turns out they are for real. Chocolate is a vasodilator – it can reduce blood pressure. It has anti-oxidant properties, and by expanding the blood vessels in the brain, it sends more blood to the brain.

Word on Chat is that this would have been a favorite program of our founding father, John Lewis, and that was seconded by many members who said Yes! It was their favorite program, too.   Best Ever!

Next week we wil hear from Jacqui Salyer of Habitat for Humanity. We are still on zoom, likely through mid-February.

President Pam ended with her own chocolate story. Her Nana made the kids memorize the names of the chocolates in the SEE’s candy box. We all know that life is like a box of chocolates . . . you just never know what you are going to get. But the other way to think about it is this: chocolate is the solution to most problems, the answer to most questions, and by far, the cheapest and most effective therapist on the planet!

February 13, 2024
2021-10-19 Meeting Bulletin
Corazon Healdsburg with Glaydon De Feitas, CEO

Prez Pam called on a patriotic Rotarian to lead the pledge, prior to handing off the microphone to Mike Merrill for an inspirational quote.

I missed the front end of the meeting, but I assume the bell rang at 7:30 sharp, and that President Pam Moulton

Words by Tom Boylan, and images by Catherine Hanron.

Guests of Rotarians:

I arrived in time to hear Linda Favre introduced as a guest… possibly one of the last guest introductions for this future Rotarian.

Monica and Gary McCabe were back for breakfast and friendship.

Kathryn Williams was sitting with her son Brian Williams

Renee Hyde introduced Domingo Callegas… all the way from Peru and looking for things to do.

Our returning former member Mitch Grandi was on hand and is likely to become a new member… again.

Michael Juric introduced Dev Sodagar, a returning visitor destined to join us.

Announcements:

The following are the President’s notes from the meeting today:
- BUDGET (Carol Martin and Ed Turner)
  - All Good!
- YOUTH (Pegi Ball)
  - Looks good for interest in an Interact Club at the High School
  - Dictionary Project moving forward
  - Looking to have a Golf Tournament in the Spring for Rotary Youth Exchange
  - Rotary Youth Exchange moving forward with selected countries
- CLUB OPERATIONS (Chris Landwhere via Michael Juric)
  - R2D2 – new member of the club!
- RECOGNITION (Doug Williams)
  - OUR Veteran’s Day event will be on NOVEMBER 16th
- FOUNDATION (John Hackenburg)
  - Purple Pinkie
- MEMBERSHIP (Renee Hyde)
  - Added 9 members since July 1, with 5 additional in the wings!!
- Club Culture (Joan Mora)
  - 3rd Thursday is for Rotary – October 21, November 18 but
  - December 11th (Holiday Party!!)
- COMMUNICATION (John LeCave via JB Leep)
  - WEBSITE – almost DONE!!!
- ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE (Barbara McChesney)
  - Continued coordination with WHS on a student project thru Committee for Change
- SERVICE (Sue Nelson and Susan Cole)
  - 18 applications received for grant requests! November 15th decision!
  - Toy and Food drive co-chaired by Robin – opportunities for hands on
- FUNDRAISING (Bill Conklin and Kurt Michener)
  - Date: March 26, 2021…..Location : Agatha Furth
  - GETTING TEAMS TOGETHER!!
- STILL working on the particulars of the Covid Protocols….
  - And
The Mission of the Rotary Club of Windsor is to serve our Community and the World.
We strive to better communicate with our members and with the community to inspire and mobilize both our local and global community in health, education, and peace to create transformative change.

Pres Pam recognized that Maureen Merrill did an excellent job last week introducing the Downtown Windsor merchants.

Patrick Dunn says October 28th at his home is the official kick-off of the Wine Fellows group.

John Hackenburg says next week we are going to celebrate World Polio Day. Be prepared to paint that pinky in purple ink.

Joan Mora says get on board… our SMART Train is heading to Brewsters in Petaluma. The train leaves from the Airport station at 5 PM. If you miss the train, plan to be social on November 17th. Please arrive ten minutes early and bring an umbrella.

Bill Bolster says there is a big blue sign along Shiloh Rd, and a few I didn’t get the name of, that reads “Thanks to Windsor Rotary for the Clean Up.” Bill says he can get you hooked up with your own road, just contact him and he can help make it happen.

Renee Hyde gave a final report on the Club’s bar activities on the Town Green. Everyone that had a hand in helping raise funds were asked to stand, but several people failed to remember, so Pres Pam reminded them they did good. Renee went on to tell us we raised over $5400 that will go towards international projects.

Bill Conklin says he had a wonderful time at the Pigs and Pinot event at his home. This was an auction item for last year and he is asking that we consider this type of event for our future fundraising efforts.

Pres Pam thinks I is a good idea to get together with another member so she is asking for names to be thrown in the hat so each week we can see who can connect with a fellow member.

Tom Hassur took on the roll of Fine Meister, He immediately picked on Renee Hyde to tell us about the Stones concert she and Paul attended. Carol Martin got called out for taking JB Leep to South Dakota to see who was on the rock… after that they went off to a place called Las Vegas… and we all know that what happened in Vegas stays in Vegas. JB had such a good time he forgot what he did. He says he will be making a donation toward Polio eradication. Kurt Mitchner took a trip with his son to the Grand Canyon. Kurt tried to buy his way out of a fine by giving Pres Pam jewelry.

Program:

JB Leep took the mic to introduce our speaker for the day Glaydon de Freitas, CEO for Corazon Healdsburg, a non-profit organization with a great purpose.

JB shared that Glaydon spent his youth in both San Paolo, Brazil and the Amazon, not the package delivery kind. His Amazon was so remote that Amazon won’t deliver and the nearest grocery store was more than five miles away from his home.

At a very early age, his father made it a point to read to him, The United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights. As a young man he was selected to be a United Nations Fellow at the Oxford Consortium for Human Rights. He initially came to the U.S. to study law at The University of Houston. We found out that he spent time as the head of strategic planning sfor the refugee and immigration center for education and legal services in Houston providing legal services to indigent immigrants and asylum seekers in ICE detention facilities.

Glaydon let us know that Rotary is very familiar to him because his father was both a Rotarian and a Free Mason. He also let us know that just days ago he became a U.S. Citizen.

He shared that although he is familiar with the environment of Rotary in Brazil with his father being both a Rotarian and a Free Mason. He gave a lot of accolades to the work of Rotary.

We heard the history of how Corazon Healdsburg got started because of a restaurant in Healdsburg that took note of the problems that LatinX people were having with work schedules and community integration in general. The history of the program is available at corazonhealdsburg.com

The mission of the newly formed non-profit organization was to promote people getting together as a Latin American community. Many of the LatinX people they were trying to reach were caught in a web of poverty and work requirements that overrode any social interaction.

Just as the Corazon was getting started the organization found itself caught in the problems of 2017, including fires. The program has excelled in recent years to gain a foothold on fighting poverty. The organization now has funds greater than five million.

Glaydon took over the program last Fall and immediately began promoting the new motto, Together We Are More.

We were introduced to three phases for their actions to improve Individual Empowerment, Collective Empowerment, and Community Strengthening. The outreach they do tries to assess and provide guidance to help families cope and advance to a higher level. All their efforts are meant to bring Corazon Cohesiveness.

Corazon Healdsburg is also focused on the educational needs of the children in their community focus. The organization works with children to help them achieve an academic life, which can lead to college counseling and financial support.

This scribe can’t possibly share all the important work that the organization provides, so take a look at the website corazonhealdsburg.com

Pres Pam was thankful for our being there along with all our guests. She also added the unofficial and unabridged Mission Statement:

The Mission of the Rotary Club of Windsor is to Eat, Drink, Dance and Party while making the world better.
February 13, 2024
2022-01-18 Meeting Bulletin

ESRAG and Plastic Soup – Gert-Jan and Salvador on a Big ZOOM!

Meeting started with all the usual pomp and circumstance… President Pam Moulton ringing the virtual bell at 7:30 and followed by a recital of the Pledge of Allegiance led by Chris Landwehr, which was followed by a fun video provided by Heather Cullen. Oscar the Grouch shared his love of garbage.

Guests:

Introductions of visiting Rotarians, blended with non-Rotarians, because today’s topic is all about ending the Plastic Soup problem of the world. Our featured speaker came all the way from the Netherlands to be with us. I believe there is a time zone difference that gives him the prize for the farthest away. We also got a visitor from Peru, Dominigo Lorenzini, Santa Rosa Junior College’s newest enrollee.

A special Zoom moment was provided by Michael Juric, our resident Zoom Master. He was kind enough to share the best practices for Zoom meetings, so that people can respond.

Announcements:

Pres. Pam let us know we are going to be on Zoom through mid-February. Then she reminded us of our Rotarian of the Month, Chris Landwehr. Chris is the person that assigns our duties to keep the meetings rolling smoothly.

The following was provided by Pres Pam as highlights from the Board meeting:

BOARD Highlights – January 17, 2022

BUDGET (Carol and Ed)
•All Good!! – Lots of money in our WRCF and Club
•Lots of opportunities to do wonderful projects locally and internationally
•Decided that we need to write out our procedures for future club leaders!
YOUTH (Pegi)
•Kids are gearing up for the short term exchange – we will meet them!
•CHOICES is still alive but due COVID, we need to wait…
•KOOL KIDS Camp is still on – but at a reduced scale

CLUB OPERATIONS (Chris)
•Tom Boylan going to turn in his pen as scribe due to DG job
•SCRIBE class is happening TODAY after our regular ZOOM mtg
•Will work with Wally and DACdb to start to input practices into a database

RECOGNITION (DOUG)
•Looking for new person to work on Scholarship Committee
•All good for Teacher Appreciation and Recognition for fire and police
BOARD Highlights, continued – January 17, 2022
FOUNDATION (John H and Brian L)
•Going to wait for LIVE meeting to present the new Paul Harris recipients and PolioPlus recipients
•NO new cases of the WILD Polio Virus!!
Club Culture (Joan)
•3rd Thursday is for Rotary including this Thursday at Mengler Winery @5:30
•Truckers against Traffikers is in the conversation – not sure when!!

COMMUNICATION
JB to introduce WEBSITE at next week’s meeting!!
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE (Barbara McChesney)
•We are an Ambassador Club joining 80 others around the world!
•Recommended Practices will be on Website
•Watch for HANDS ON activities for EARTH DAY and other events!

SERVICE (Sue Nelson and Susan Cole)
•We are way ahead of the curve with SERVING locally and internationally! We recommitted to over $62,000
•Planning on 2-3 International Projects SOON
BOARD Highlights – January 17, 2022

FUNDRAISING
Committed focus to:
Attendees
2. Sponsors and Donors
3. Auction Items
4. Greeters Giving
5. Broadcast Platform
Want all 63 members to register, invite friends, bid and have fun!!

Bill Conklin and Kurt Mitchler had an opportunity to talk about the committee meeting following the morning’s meeting. If you are on any of the committees for the fundraiser, you need to connect with Kurt for the link to the Zoom for future weeks. If you have an item to contribute, look for the form for submissions on the WindsorRotary.org site.

Bill Bolster announced the incoming president selection committee is looking for your input. If you have a suggestion for president 2024-2025 please let him know.

Sue Nelson got the shout out from Pres. Pam for stepping into the presidential role last week. Susan Cole got recognition for her leadership at last week’s meeting and the introduction she made to the new Windsor High School Welding Project.

Program

Barbara McChesney reminded us of her mission to eliminate single-use plastic and her involvement with ESRAG. She did a great job of introducing Salvador Ricci, a member of District 5130 and current area governor. Salvador shared his energy in fixing the environment through his river cleanup projects, which included the Russian River. He shared a video on how easy it is for pollution to collect, and the importance of having Rotary and its resources to repair the damage pollution causes.

Salvador Rico: Rotarian for over 12 years and is a member of the Rotary club of South Ukiah. He has been a passionate champion of keeping our rivers clean since his first project in 2009. Since then, he has helped start river clean-up projects with the support of rotary clubs internationally. He has presented his River Ameca in Mexico clean-up project to the Mexican Consular General and representative to the UN. He is a past president and Paul Harris fellow. He is the father of five and owner of Alliance Auto in Ukiah.

Salvador shared a variety of projects that have been completed in Mexico, and let us know that a planned environmental clean-up project in Mexico is being put on hold until next October due to Covid concerns. You can contact him if you have an interest in getting involved.

Salvador Rico Assistant Governor 2021-2023 from the Rotary Club of South Ukiah D5130. 707-391-4010 salvador.rotary@gmail.com

Barbara then introduced us to Gert Jan van Dommelen, Rotary Coordinator for Huizen Gooimeer.

Gert-Jan Dommelen: Co-founder of the End Plastic Soup global environment initiative to solve and prevent plastic pollution. His experience includes program manager and consulting leader at IBM corporation and he is a Program Manager and Business Transformation consultant.

He left his job with IBM to devote full time efforts to End Plastic Soup. He has a successful track record in the financial, public, healthcare and industrial sectors and a deep understanding of business alignment and technology adoption to meet corporate objectives and timelines.

Leader with vision and execution drive, delivering transformation programs with a strong focus on quality control, the value for all stakeholders including long term business benefits. Gert-Jan is passionate about circular economy, next generation living, learning and building a future of inclusiveness. He is a Paul Harris fellow with Rotary International and honored Member of the Dutch Royal Order of Oranje Nassau.

The initiative to end plastic soup started 3.5 years ago. The action began locally and when the project was shared at an International Convention, the support became dramatic on Rotary’s part. The goal of the campaign is to leave it up to Rotary Clubs to take action independently to change our use of plastics, and in particular the intrusion of plastics into our local environment.

It turns out that the real problem with plastics is that they never go away, plastic just gets smaller and then it intrudes into our plankton, which is the gatekeeper for providing oxygen to the planet. And you thought it was trees that made all the oxygen… Plastic breaks down to micrometers, which gives it every opportunity to penetrate our skin, and that is a problem, not because of the actual plastic nano-bits, but because the toxins associated with plastic production internal means these additives reach into our human bodies, which can affect our ability to produce children, and has negative effects on just about every aspect of our internals.

Plastic production is over the top. Take a look at endplasticsoup.org to see how great the problem is, and why the initiative is so important to humanity.

The meeting ended with a reminder from President Pam to attend Zoom meetings until mid-February, and the following quote:

We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.
———-
Latest COVID information from your Rotary Nurse!

                If you or someone you know needs a N95 mask or needs a COVID test, call us!

01/18/22

COVID UPDATE:

               OMICRON SURGE NOT YET PEAKED!!!! Surgeon General states that the next few weeks may be difficult with case surges.    ******* 30 DAY BAN ORDERED ON LARGE GATHERINGS! January 12^th , this ban took place and mandated that all gatherings indoors of more than 50 people and more than 100 outdoor were to be prohibited by Sonoma county Public Health officials in a move to curb the wide spread of Omicron.   This surge threatens to overwhelm local hospitals and medical services. This order does not apply to normal classroom or recess activities and schools remain open.   Workplace settings, courthouse activities, places of worship, cafeterias or any venue that is open to the public as part of regular operations, including shopping malls, stores, restaurants and museums are exempt for now.    It also specifies that gatherings of individuals who are at higher risk of severe illness from COVID must be limited to no more than 12 people, except for family gatherings. Sonoma County Health Officer has also issued a countywide appeal for residents to voluntarily stay home and restrict large gatherings.    Check the new order online for its’ entirety…..

               FDA has authorized boosters for youths, ages 12-15.     FDA also shortened to 5 months the time required between 2^nd dose and ability to be given the Booster.

OMICRON cases are now averaging about 1255 new COVID cases per day (last week we were seeing about 600)!    We have also seen a spike in the number of people hospitalized with COVID in our county hospitals; this does not mean that these patients entered the hospital because of COVID but it does mean they have tested positive for COVID upon admission.    The numbers of health care personnel likewise are becoming positive and are sick, straining the ability to provide care in a county where we have limited nurses and CNA’s.   (nurses aides)

               Our State is now requiring masks to be worn indoors.   California 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.   Call us at 707-546-8773 if you are having any issues finding a test site.

               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:        62,980** (last week 544,199)           Recovered:    44,139   (last week 43,661)             Active Cases: 18,415** (last week 10,117)        ***Please note this spike in numbers!!! We continue to climb***

Deaths:                426   (last week 421)    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.
Do your utmost best to shelter at home as much as you can and help our community stop this current surge!   Do not go to an Emergency Room (ER) unless it is truly an emergency as you are impacting medical care for those who really need it and you do chance exposure.   Test if you have symptoms

New Cases:         8781** cases this past week   (last week 2832) – this is a huge increase and demonstrates how infectious Omicron is and how fast it is spreading through our County.

Hospitalized:      88 confirmed and 3 suspected   (last week 76 confirmed and 2 suspected)

Vaccination information…. As of January 16th, 2022, 956,677 doses of vaccination have been given to residents in Sonoma County. (last week 938,476).    78% 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.
MASKS:               Please do not use your cloth masks –   Omicron is highly contagious and will get through.   Switch to surgical mask, KN95 or the N95.   If you must continue to use your cloth masks, then please use two and double up.    This will help with the spread of this fast spreading variant.   The CDC is also recommending if you use a surgical mask to wear a cloth mask over it, thereby making a tighter seal.   Fortunately, Omicron 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.   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, unless you are still symptomatic on day 5.   If you are then you should continue to isolate or stay home for the full 10 days.
Get your booster if you are eligible! 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.
Stay home if you are able and stay away from groups as much as possible as this Omicron goes through our community.   Be cautious, Mask up, get your booster, your flu shot and just be careful as we learn to live with this virus……..
Please know that I am always available to answer questions, help with scheduling appointment, providing a test or even FIT testing you for a N95 mask so that it fits properly.
Thanks

Di

February 13, 2024
2022-01-11 Meeting Bulletin
Field Trip to the WHS Vasconi Welding Facility

The Rotary Club of Windsor goes on a field trip! For most School Children, a field trip takes them anywhere but school. But for us – we head back to school under the watchful eye of former President – Sue Nelson, and the wonderful staff of Windsor High School – Brian Williams, Grace Curtin-Fiano, Marie Ganister & John Brito

Our meeting was called to order by Past President Sue who reminded us “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn” (Benjamin Franklin)

Pledge of Allegiance – John Hackenburg

Guests:
- John Nelson – husband of Past President Sue Nelson
- Grace Curtin-Fiano – Assistant Principle, WHS
- Marie Ganister – Culinary Teacher & CTE Coordinator, WHS
- John Brito – CTE teacher, WHS
Rotary Moment: “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn” (Benjamin Franklin)
Rotarian of the Month – Chris Landwehr. Congratulations Chris for all that you do and have done

Announcements:
- Wally Krutz – Castañeda’s Market is hosting a Paella Pick-Up on Jan 19th to support victims of the recent Boulder Creek Fires. Please go get some delicious grub and help some people going through pain many of us are all too familiar with.
- Ed Turner – $25,007.93 donated to Windsor Rotary Community Foundation from the estate of Carl Wiuff
- Sue Nelson – We will be returning to Zoom ONLY for at least the next 2 meetings.
Brian Ling told us how the lack of shop classes in Sonoma County ended up sinking his business, Reliance Trailers, Cotati – a business with 90 employees as a way of underscoring the importance of programs like Windsor High School’s Welding Classes.

Brian Williams gave us a rundown of how tax payer funds for schools are capped to get programs to the ‘essential’ level. This really impacts the ability of a program like Auto-Manufacturing to be able to get equipment and supplies needed to meet an industry standard that really puts students in a good standing to secure a well-paying job after graduation.

Marie Ganister highlighted how these classes are so effective at building collaborative and team working skills in addition to the technical expertise and safety skills needed in a professional environment. This is a creative skill that gives many students something to really be passionate about in their schooling.

John Brito gave the club a little of his background as an Industrial mechanic who moved to teaching for a more rewarding career. He’s been teaching at WHS for 8 years now teaching ~150 students per year and already has a wealth of amazing stories of the successes his students have had on graduation and entering the professional world.

John underscored Brian’s comments about the costs of maintaining a shop in the public school system – raw materials alone amount to more than the entire budget for any other program in the school. Having funds for doing additional facilities and equipment makes all the difference. Rotary will be bringing funds to allow the students to replace the gate and fencing around the shop area as well as tarmacking the outdoor space so that it is more functional and no longer presents the health and safety risks that it currently does in moving heavy equipment over gravel / mud.

John also highlighted that Rotary’s attention on the program helps give the program more visibility more generally and that is really important for the program’s ongoing success.

Windsor High School will be providing a gift basket of items made by the students to include in the auction!!! Items include a metalwork piggie bank with business card holder that the scribe was eyeing with envy and a bunch of wrought metal roses!

John gave us a tour of the shop including a demonstration of the CNC cutter that the shop has on which he cut out some rotary cogs as trinkets for the club!

01/11/22

COVID UPDATE:

                ******* 30 DAY BAN ORDERED ON LARGE GATHERINGS! Effective at 12:01 am Wednesday, January 12^th all gatherings indoors of more than 50 people and more than 100 outdoors are prohibited by Sonoma county Public Health officials in a move to curb the wide spread of Omicron.   This surge threatens to overwhelm local hospitals and medical services. This order does not apply to normal classroom or recess activities and schools remain open.   Workplace settings, courthouse activities, places of worship, cafeterias or any venue that is open to the public as part of regular operations, including shopping malls, stores, restaurants and museums are exempt for now.    It also specifies that gatherings of individuals who are at higher risk of severe illness from COVID must be limited to no more than 12 people, except for family gatherings. Sonoma County Health Officer has also issued a countywide appeal for residents to voluntarily stay home and restrict large gatherings.    Check the new order online for its’ entirety…..

               FDA has authorized boosters for youths, ages 12-15.     FDA also shortened to 5 months the time required between 2^nd dose and ability to be given the Booster.

OMICRON cases in Sonoma County are averaging 121.4 new daily cases per 100,000 people! This equates to about 600 new COVID cases per day and we are seeing about 16.5 % of COVID tests coming back positive compared to last winter’s surge of only below 10%.    We have also seen a spike in the number of people hospitalized with COVID in our county hospitals, going from 30 a week ago to 76 on Sunday. It does not mean that these patients entered the hospital because of COVID but it does mean they have tested positive for COVID.

               Our State is now requiring masks to be worn indoors.   California 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.   Call us at 707-546-8773 if you are having any issues finding a test site.

               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:        54,199** (last week 46,745)           Recovered:    43,661   (last week 43,136)             Active Cases: 10,117** (last week 3191)        ***Please note this spike in numbers!!! We continue to climb***

Deaths:                421   (last week 418)    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.
Do your utmost best to shelter at home as much as you can and help our community stop this current surge!   Do not go to an Emergency Room (ER) unless it is truly an emergency as you are impacting medical care for those who really need it and you do chance exposure.

New Cases:         2832** cases this past week   (last week 1994) – this is a huge increase and demonstrates how infectious Omicron can and is.

Hospitalized:      76 confirmed and 2 suspected   (last week 29 confirmed and 3 suspected)

Vaccination information…. As of January 9th, 2022, 938,476 doses of vaccination have been given to residents in Sonoma County. (last week 917,953).    78% 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:               Please do not use your cloth masks –   Omicron is highly contagious and will get through.   Switch to surgical mask, KN95 or the N95.   If you must 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.   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, unless you are still symptomatic on day 5.   If you are then you should continue to isolate or stay home for the full 10 days.

Get your booster if you are eligible! 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.

Stay home if you are able and stay away from groups as much as possible as this Omicron goes through our community.   Be cautious, Mask up, get your booster, your flu shot and just be careful as we learn to live with this virus……..
Please know that I am always available to answer questions, help with scheduling appointment, providing a test or even FIT testing you for a N95 mask so that it fits properly.

Thanks

Di
February 13, 2024
2021-10-05 Program Presentation – Creating Our Fundraiser
Scribe: Brian Ling          Editor: Natalie Lim         Introduced by: Pam Moulton
Rotary Club of Windsor
Meeting Notes – Tuesday, October 5, 2021

Scribe:  Brian Ling
Pledge of Allegiance:  John LeCave
Song:  JB Leep, “I Can See Clearly Now”, by Johnny Nash
- “It’s gonna be a bright bright sunshiny day!”
Rotary Moment: Kurt Michler – Kurt has visited different Rotary Clubs throughout the world. When you travel, check the Rotary app, and attend a Rotary meeting anywhere in the world. Meet new friends that are all sharing

Guests:
- Mitch Grandi, retired long time Windsor resident and previous member of the Rotary Club of Windsor
- Domingo Paella, Exchange family guest from Chile. Attended Giants and 49ers this past week. Along with a San Francisco tour with Cable Cars and Coit Tower.
- Esther Lemus, Windsor Town Council Member
Announcements:
- Rotarian of the Month for October:
  - Michael Juric – For everything that he does every month for our club and Rotary District 5130 and Rotary International.
- Global Grant:
  - Sandie Krutz. Following the Atlanta Int’l. convention, we worked with the Rotary Club of Ituiutaba Brazil, to completely outfit a full surgical unit. Multiple clubs including San Felipe (Mexico), Belmont, Healdsburg Sunrise, Santa Rosa, and Windsor participated in the Global Grant. Our club’s participation was $3000 and along with the other clubs’ contributions, district matching, and RI Foundation matching, the total grant grew to $50,360. The clinic has already performed 170 surgeries in the new center. Great job Sandie and thank you for your leadership on this International project.
- Rotary Bar:
  - Renee Hyde. $1100 on Thursday and $900 on Sunday on the Town Green. One more Thursday to go and thank you to everyone that has volunteered this year.
- Zoom Hybrid: Returning to hybrid format next week, Oct. 12.
- Club Social:
  - Joan Mora. We’ll be taking the SMART Train on Thursday Oct 21. 5:30pm outbound, 8:15pm return trip, to Petaluma including a dinner at McNears. Contact Joan if you would like to join us. Guests are welcome.
- JB and Carol: Recent travel to South Dakota and Las Vegas and shared some wonderful gifts with President Pam.
- Birthdays: HB to Joan Mora who will celebrate with a contribution toward her Paul Harris account.
- Anniversaries: President Pam reminded Doug Williams and Scott Bonin about their upcoming anniversaries. Congratulations.
PROGRAM PRESENTATION – CREATING OUR FUNDRAISER

President Pam reminded us with a photo collage of all of our previous fundraising events highlighting all the great fellowship that we have had and the hundreds of thousands of dollars that we have been able to raise for the community.

Choosing a Beneficiary: Sue Nelson and Susan Cole are leading the Beneficiary search and we have already received 5 completed applications and numerous more are expected to be received. Beyond just choosing a beneficiary, we want to find one that will build passion within our club to put on the best fundraiser ever. Having a great “Why”, is so important to having a successful event. An easy volunteer opportunity is available for our members to participate in the application review and beneficiary recommendation process.

Date: April 9, 2022
Auctioneer: Senator Mike McGuire
Co-Chairs: Kurt Michler and Bill Conklin

Identify your area of interest: Venue, Auction, Sponsorships, Marketing, Promotion, Programs

The club separated into 4 thinktanks to start brainstorming for our fabulous event on April 4!

Closing Thoughts:

Not only must we be good – but we must be good for something! Henry David Thoreau

COVID UPDATE

NEWS FLASH: BOOSTER SHOTS ARE HERE!!!!!!!!!! Pfizer and Moderna boosters are now available at many pharmacies and at clinics and Drs’ offices. J and J has requested FDA approval for their booster.

Total Cases:
- 39,773 (last week 39,399)
Recovered:
- 38,031 (last week 37,209)
Active Cases:
- 1356 (last week 1806)
Deaths:
- 386 (last week 384) Almost 56% of our deaths are now not a resident of senior living or skilled nursing facilities!
New Cases:
- 374 new cases this past week (last week 324 new cases)
Hospitalized:
- 34 confirmed and 0 suspected (last week 43 confirmed and 0 suspected)
Vaccination information…. As of Oct. 3rd, 698,952 residents in Sonoma County have received the vaccine (last week 689,159).    77% 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)

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! Consider getting your flu shot so that your immunity is up and your body is not susceptible to infection.
Thanks

Di
February 13, 2024