The Club started congregating early to chat and enjoy some pre-meeting antics.  President Bill Bolster rang us at 7:30… a cacophony of Good Morning President Bill followed shortly.  For those who might have forgotten, President Bill reminded us that we had a great party… virtually… last Saturday night. He shared a few photos of the ZOOM variety including a couple of photos of Santa and his helper

Karen Ricketts offered a pledge and we all joined in.

Barbara McChesney offered an inspiration first shared by Reverand Martin Luther King Jr., “An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity.”  

Tom Boylan felt inspired to be the scribe for the day!

Heather Cullen took us on a trip to a Winter Wonderland with the Heather Cullen Quartet. Gone away is the bluebird, here to stay is a new bird! This mute thing works very well!  

There were no visiting Rotarians or guests of Rotarians, so we were on our own.

Barbara McChesney got a shout out for her well-deserved recognition for all that she does in our Rotary world. That is why she is the December Rotarian of the Month.

Santa Rosa West is looking for recipes to add to their fundraising cookbook.  The idea is to share a recipe that has helped get you through the COVID experience, but incoming president Mae Heagerty -Matos is open to all sorts of recipes. If you don’t cook, send in your favorite cocktail recipe, or just a note on how you coped with COVID. An entry into the book will cost you $20, but you will be immortalized. You can contact Mae directly at (650) 773-6418 or email her at mae-matos@yahoo.com. 

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Carol Martin shared that we have a slew of toys and food donations for our annual Holiday food and toy drive. She let us know there is a need for volunteers to help pack food wrap toys and more. She reminds us that this is a safe spot for volunteers to avoid COVID. 

Who: Windsor Kiwanis, Windsor Rotary, Windsor Presbyterian Church Pantry, Windsor Chamber of Commerce, Windsor Oddfellows, Windsor Lions Club, Santa Tim, and more.

What: Drive-Thru Food and Toy Giveaway, photos with Santa Tim

Where: Windsor Middle School

Volunteer 2-Hour Slots – (masks + socially distanced):  

• Pre-Event Slots – gift wrapping, food sorting (thru Dec 18)
• Day of Event – Saturday, Dec 19 (10am to 4pm)
• Sign Up:  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60b0e49afa72ca5fa7-windsor1 

Mike Merrill let us know there was a lot of ringing in the ears of the community and the Dick Bishop Memorial Bell Ringing team. He and his helpers will be out again this weekend and could use a little help in ringing da bell. Sign Up By calling or emailing: Bill Bolster (707-843-6453 billbolster@eoc-inc.com) or Mike Merrill (707-484-0310 mpmerrr42@gmail.com)

Windsor Rotarians were amazing when it comes to adopting families in the Town of Windsor. The Boys and Girls Club was in awe of the donations we made to eleven families to have a special Holiday with gift certificates for food, fun, and more.  The power of Rotary even added a couple of bicycles with a donation from the Windsor Bike Shop. Another community gem was Castaneda’s market which offered gift certificates emblazoned with our Windsor Rotary logo.  Sandy Krutz was on the edge of emotional tears in describing the generosity of our club members. Kudos to Sandy for coordinating this event.

We found out that Amazon Smile gave back over $3000 to the club because people chose to use the Smile versus the general Amazon sign in.  Signup at Smile.Amazon.com and be sure that you add Windsor Rotary Foundation for the charitable organization. 

Doug Williams handed out a lot of caffeine notices to the teachers in Windsor with our teacher appreciation coupons that were then handed out to the Windsor School District last week.  Ken Moulton, Tom Boylan, and Sandy Krutz received some extra credit from Doug for their efforts to keep teachers caffeinated and appreciated. 

Tomorrow there will be ladies gathering online

• Tuesday 6 PM get a glass of wine or other beverage and get online to our special meeting. Don’t miss it because there will be a special guest.

Leslie Lewis took the lead on recognitions and immediately invited Karen Ricketts to pony up for her birthday dinner at her mom’s house with Amy. Karen opted to throw a donation to whatever Leslie decides is worthy. 

We heard from Tom Hassur that Brenda has undergone some fusion on her back and he has taken to wearing a nurse’s outfit. The Hassur’s have recently celebrated 30 years of marriage… and after a litany of great rewards he and Brenda have shared she went after Tom for a donation and he opted to pay off a few fines since he had no money left after buying a 2.5 lb Lobster for his bride.

Heather and Reg Cullen celebrated 17 years of wedded bliss and Heather opted to make a donation to the Rotary Club of Windsor’s Foundation.

Art Diaz was in the building… wherever that building is, but Art was offered a lot of accolades for being such a nice guy with immense talents and a commitment to family. Leslie suggested there is a price to pay for being such a nice guy. He offered a donation to the John Lewis Fund. 

After 17 years on the board of directors for the Windsor Fire District, John Nelson is stepping down. In Leslie’s special way she asked Sue Nelson to pony up payment for his freedom. 

The program turned to silence as our Zoom Master was having difficulty with his Mike (sic). Michael Juric having a problem with a microphone?  JB Leep stepped up and relayed what we were supposed to do as we entered into breakout rooms. 

President Bill suggested fruit cake is not a gift he is looking forward to receiving this year.  See you on December 22nd at 6 PM. 

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The Night Before Christmas

Adapted from Clement Clarke Moore

A gift for the Rotary Club of Windsor, California

As written by Michael R. Juric

December 15th, 2020

‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the town, Not a person was stirring, going back to locked down;

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St. Fauci soon would be there;

The townsfolk were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of hugging friends danced in their heads;

Mom and I both, were wearing our gaiters, We sanitized again, not waiting for later;

Then out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I grabbed a new mask to see what was the matter.

Away to the window I flew like a flash, Yelling “six feet please”, I threw up the sash.

The moon, on the breast of the new-fallen snow, Gave the lustre of lysol to objects below,

When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, But an Amazon delivery, I was hoping for beer,

Ah the little old driver, so lively, not grouchy, I knew in a moment it must be St. Fauci.

More rapid than eagles the injections they came, And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name:

“Now, Pfizer! Moderna! Now, GlaxoSmithKline! On Merck and Sanofi!  A vaccine to find!

Six feet from the porch! The delivery, hands-free!  Let’s get the job done and then time to flee!”

Our community is strong, we’ve done this before, We’ll beat this darn virus, and settle that score,

Up to the house-top the doc and team flew, With the van full of shots – and St. Fauci too.

And then in a twinkling I heard in the town The prancing and party with everyone ‘round.

As I drew in my head, and was turning away, Down the chimney St. Fauci, with something to say.

He was dressed in a lab coat from his head to his toe, And his clothes were well worn, with wrinkles you know;

A bundle of shots he had flung on his back, And he looked like a godsend just opening his pack.

His eyes how they twinkled! his thoughts ever clear! His comments spot on, he calms away fear;

His mask had a sports team I won’t mention or post, As we all are so proud of the ones on our coast.

The list of our heroes he held tight in his hand, With trials and hard work they give all that they can;

He had a strong face and no sign of a belly He smiled, when he spoke, as we’ve seen on the telly.

He reminded today there was no time to stop; We must keep up our guard, our resolve not to drop.

Washing our hands and remaining apart, He taught me to know I had hope in my heart;

Our heroes don’t stop, their care is the best, And I knew I would listen because they don’t rest.

Then, laying his finger aside of his nose, And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose

He sprang to his van, to his team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle;

I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight, ‘Healthy New Year to all, and to all a good-night!’

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This leads to the perfect segue… Our weekly COVID report from Nurse Diane Brabitz:

We are in a crisis situation in Sonoma County with our hospitals impacted, our nursing homes with no beds to put patients in, and home care starting to see our employees testing positive!

TWO AMERICANS /MINUTE IS DYING OF COVID IN THE USA CURRENTLY!     (This is doubled from 2 weeks ago…..sigh)

Total Cases:        14,859  (last week 13,439)

New Cases:    Fri 114  THIS IS 691  (last week 516)    NEW CASES OVER THE WEEKEND AND THE LARGEST SURGE TO DATE!  Sat 193, Sun 230, Mon 154, Deaths:  164     (last week 160)

Hospitalized:   70 confirmed and 10 suspected    (last week 41 confirmed and 1 suspected)    Statewide, the number of hospitalizations continue to rise has doubled since last month!    

Our hospital beds are impacted and nursing homes will not admit someone with COVID.    We tried to find a bed for a client who tested positive and the closest bed available was Fresno!

 We continue with 19% of our cases in the 25-34-year-olds and 17% in the 35-44-year-olds 

We have tested a Total of 334,774 and 11,350 recovered   (last week 315,727 in our county with 10,707 people recovered)  

Still seeing the largest number of cases in the Latinos (68% and whites are only 25%)    The biggest concern right now is the surge being seen from Thanksgiving and that most cases are coming from close community spread or close contact.    It is not so much work-related as it is family and events.

Public Health Officer Mase issued a county shut down on Friday night in an effort to slow down the number of positive cases and need for admission to facilities and to stop the spread.   

Public Health, the CDC, and most infectious disease Physicians are worried about the increase in cases (a surge on a surge!)   we will see because people did not stay at home and did travel; as well as the family /friend dinners that occurred locally with more than their own household bubble.   We are already seeing some of the Thanksgiving surges.

With Christmas coming, it is again being stressed to not travel, stay at home and limit your contact as much as possible.  If you traveled at all and got together with others, the experts are advising you to get tested.   The experts are also seeing it is taking up to 4 weeks, not just 2 weeks to see new cases or new positives because of symptoms not being reported, not seeking MD visits, and then getting test results back.   By the time a Case Worker or Contact Tracer gets involved, it could be weeks.  Public Health is working nonstop trying to contain this virus but it will take every citizen to do their part.

Vaccines are coming or have arrived in Sonoma County and will be used in our acute care hospitals to treat health care staff first.    Mase says she expects weekly delivery of the vaccine and will be given to other health care workers and support staff as it is received before going to the general public.  Our in-home care is expected to be in the second tier of those offered it.  

Stay safe please and practice avoiding crowds, staying home, wearing your mask even when taking walks (or at least have it with you to put on), and staying in your household bubble.   Outside family members are not part of your bubble and unless they have been tested and isolated for 10-14 days before being with you and you the same, it can be risky.   And if you see others from outside our county, have them and you quarantine for 10-14 days after.    We cannot be too careful!

Please each and everyone do your part in controlling this disease and keeps your guard up until the vaccine is available to the general public.   Let’s really become SONOMA COUNTY STRONG AGAIN and concentrate on taking precautions, sacrificing now so that we can have future holidays with our loved ones!

Thanks, Di

With 27 people in attendance, we heard the bell ring at 7:30. President Bill Bolster took over the chat-fest and asked us how many exercised moderation in their Thanksgiving feast. He let us know it is his favorite holiday.

Carol Martin led us in a pledge of allegiance. 

We were offered inspiration by Barbara McChesney who shared a quote from, “The heart of a volunteer is never measured in size but in the depth of commitment to the lives of others.” 

After warning Michael Juric to mute everyone we were allowed to sing along with Heather Cullen who reminded us it is beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Somehow everyone didn’t quite get muted, but it was an enthusiastic try.

Heather Cullen had a guest, Laurel Green from Windsor Middle School. JB Leep introduced our guest and speaker Ruben Scott.

Sue Nelson gave us an introduction to an old Rotary friend Jo Timmsen, who has a history that included 10 years with our club. Welcome back!

The Rotarian of the month is energetic and committed Barbara McChesney, who has jumped into our club and the organization. Nice call president Bill.

Glenn Sugden shared that Kiwanis has been knocking on the door to ask for our assistance in gathering toys for their annual toy drive. Donate toys, or food, or both. We were reminded that we can hold onto our toys until our Holiday social. You were assigned a name and your challenge is to find a toy that matches the personality of the name you drew.

There will be wrapping toys and sorting food need for volunteers. The volunteers can help pre wrapping, or you can get in on the event for the December 19th hand out. Two-hour time slots are offered and the environment requires a safe COVID environment and all volunteers need to sign up. 

Our Board is planning to donate $1000 toward the program and Glenn is planning to match that amount, which then caught Diane Brabitz to offer $1000, which brought another offer of $1000 from Renee Hyde and multiple whistles from Brian Ling. Applauded by all in attendance, which has grown to 37 present. 

President Bill shared Ken Moulton’s efforts to continue to promote our support for the teacher of Windsor. Ken asked Pam Moulton to read a wonderful letter that will be going out to each of the teachers in the community for their service to all the children in Windsor. Doug Williams was recognized for his efforts to lead the effort to get a gift card prepared by Tom Boylan to accompany the letter. Pam Moulton recited the letter to the club. Every teacher will receive a $5 gift card to Cafe Noto. 

We are reminded by Diane Brabitz that today is giving Tuesday and there are many ways you can open your hearts and wallets to the Rotary Foundation, the Windsor Rotary Fund, the John Lewis Community fund. To keep it easy Carol Martin let us know there is a new feature on the Windsorrotary.org website that will allow you to make a donation online. You can ask to direct your donation to a specific need.

See Diane Brabitz’s COVID report at the bottom of the bulletin 

The Dick Bishop Memorial Bell Ringing campaign is in need to have more ringers. If you can offer your hand wringing… ringing… please get a hold of Mike Merrill, or president Bill. Remember that Santa’s helpers wear masks these days. 

The Rotary Holiday Social requires you to have some fun prior to the event by shopping for a toy that you think best represents the character of the person whose name you have been sent by Rene Hyde. Know that she and Paul Peloso will have a Santa Mobile ready to roll and pick up the toys from your home.

There is a clipboard with a few opportunities to be active in the club. The following has been promoted by Pres. Bill. 

• Dick Bishop Salvation Army Bell Ringing needs a few ding a lings. Contact Mike Merrill at            mpmerr42@gmail.com, or call 707-484-0310
• Fundraisers – Need volunteers
•  Santa Tim Gift Wrapping – Contact Glenn Sugden at glenn@thirdworkshop.com  / 707-696-9906    
•  February Valentine’s Day Tri Tip – Contact Carol Martin at cm@marleep.com / 707-403-8200    
•  “Ladies on Line” on Wednesday, December 16th at 5:30 contact Pam Moulton at pmoult@comcast.net / 707-328-0026

 Rotary District 5130 Disaster Relief Fund – Fires.

They will work hard to make sure every dollar donated will make a difference in someone’s life!

www.rotary5130.org/district-disaster-response-plan

 Mail your donation to: Ashliegh Diehl, District 5130 Treasurer, 1315 Fourth Street, Eureka, Ca 95501

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Program:

JB introduced our speaker, Ruben Scott, president of the Sonoma Chapter of the NAACP. Ruben moved to Sonoma County as a youngster attending Santa Rosa schools including SRJC and eventually went on to graduate from Penn State.  He took on the role of the President of Sonoma NAACP a little over a year ago.

According to Ruben, the association has been growing dramatically over the past two years more than doubling. He pointed out that their work includes working for all people and not just those who are people of color. 

He shared a list of demands that align with the efforts of Rotary in so many ways including demanding that the city and state recognize the elements of our community that can assist people, all people, benefit from a robust and open community which includes schools, and community facilities and services. 

An interesting perspective was shared how he grew up in Sonoma County and didn’t easily recognize a difference, but his work with NAACP has shown a home that there are problems that need to be addressed to have equality and fair treatment for all people and that complaints received from the community can be addressed, by his organization. He found an agreement between the police and city officials that there is a need for addressing inherent problems in the treatment of people of color. 

We learned that we need to walk in our life as role models and Ruben found out that we walk a little earlier than some.  He suggested that we need to step out of our norm to have an opportunity to learn more about our communities and the problems, along with the good in our communities. 

Through all the difficulties our Sonoma County residents have been through, we have an opportunity to focus on the elements that we all share.  In order to live together, we need to recognize we need each other to survive and that we need to open a dialogue. 

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COVID update:

Here is the latest COVID update from your Rotary Club nurse:

 ONE AMERICAN /MINUTE IS DYING OF COVID IN THE USA CURRENTLY!    

 Total Cases:        12,319  (last week 11,608)

 New Cases:            Fri 80                 THIS IS 319  (last week 292)    NEW CASES OVER THE WEEKEND (within only 3 days, not 4) AND THE LARGEST SURGE TO DATE!  Sat stats not avail. Sun 118 Mon 121 

Deaths:  157     (last week 155)

Hospitalized:    31 confirmed and 3 suspected    (last week 30 confirmed and 2 suspected)    Statewide, the number of hospitalizations has doubled since last month!     

 We continue with 19% of our cases in the 25-34-year-olds and 17% in the 35-44-year-olds 

 We have tested a Total of 297,943 and 10,010 recovered   (last week 283,276 in our county with 9625 people recovered)  

Still seeing the largest number of cases in the Latinos (70% and whites are only 23%); cases are coming from close community spread or close contact and largest industry testing positive is services and sales. (this is not health care workers)    2nd largest group of cases are still in people not working and are probably cases caught from a family member!  10% are healthcare workers.

Governor Newsom has issued a curfew from 10 pm to 5 am and also a one-month limited STAY AT HOME for non-essential personnel.  It has been recommended by Governor and the CDC that all travel be halted and that we not leave the Bay Area.    (they were previously saying Sonoma County but so many travels for work)   The issue with travel is not being on a plane but the time being in airports which is a closed, contained space.  The CDC has issued a NO Travel warning into Mexico and some states here in the US have implemented a 2 week quarantine period.

 Public Health and most infectious disease Physicians are worried about the increase in cases we will see because people did not stay at home and did travel; as well as had dinners locally with more than their own household bubble.   We also have Christmas coming and again it is being stressed to not travel, stay at home and limit your contact as much as possible.  If you traveled at all and got together with others, the experts are advising you to get tested.   The experts are also seeing it is taking up to 4 weeks, not just 2 weeks to see new cases or new positives because of symptoms not being reported, not seeking MD visits, and then getting test results back.   By the time a Case Worker or Contact Tracer gets involved, it could be weeks.

Signs and Symptoms to report are fever, runny nose, chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, headache, nausea and or diarrhea, and loss of taste or smell.   All of these could also be indicative of a cold or the flu.    Have you gotten your flu shot?????  

Please each and everyone does your part in controlling this disease and keep your guard up until the vaccine is available to the general public.   We are probably looking at 6 months and summer before we have enough immunity to see normal life again.   It is up to each of us!

 Let’s really become SONOMA COUNTY STRONG AGAIN and on this Giving Tuesday, show kindness.  The life you save could be someone you love!

 Thanks, Di 

Diane Brabetz

Administrator – Owner

At Home Nursing

The meeting was called to order by President Bill Bolster at 6:07 pm

Our surprise guest was our very own District Governor Doug Johnson

President Bill congratulated the club for “knocking it out of the park these last few weekends” helping people who needed help:  The Dick Bishop Memorial Bell ringing, the Windsor Community Food and Toy Giveaway, the adopt a family program through the Boys and Girls Club, and Gift certificates to all the Windsor Teachers. 

 Sue Nelson commented that it’s an amazing feat for a club that hasn’t been physically together for most of the year to have accomplished so much.  She said the leadership our club has shown for each project is what made the results so amazing.  “The Miracle of Christmas” will be on Christmas morning when all the families we have helped are blessed with toys for the kids, a meal, and gift cards that will make their lives better.  Sue went on to honor President Bill for holding us together and keeping us moving in the right direction.  

President Bill then introduced our special guest.  An elf sent by Santa… District Governor Doug Johnson.  

DG Doug:  “It’s amazing across our district that Rotarians are finding ways to make an impact in their communities even during the COVID situation, and in the next day or so there will be a DG message going out to that effect. 

The preview is in the theme for the year… “Be a Gift to the World.”  He believes Rotarians give gifts, but Rotary understands the reality is that “You are the Gift”.  You give Service above Self.  Thank you, Windsor Rotarians, for what you are doing. “ 

DG Doug said “Tonight we are here to celebrate a Windsor Rotary gift to our district.  The gift is our DG designate for the Rotary year 2023-2024; Tom Boylan.  Cheers to Tom, and thank you for stepping up.”

“Normally we try to introduce the dignitaries like our past DGs, and a lot of them are here tonight.  I am going to put all my past DGs to a test.  I am going to recognize one ZOOM square (containing at least one past DG) and then you move on and recognize someone else and so on till we are out of past DGs.”

DG Doug shared that Windsor Rotary collects DGs like he collects baseball cards, and then chose Mike Merrill and Maureen Merrill, both past DGs and both members of the Windsor club to start a round of recognition with the following sequence:

Maureen recognized Michael Juric.  

Michael recognized Ken Moulton who wasn’t present, so he went on to recognize Helaine Campbell.

• Helaine recognized Terri Clark.  
• Terri recognized Dustin Littlefield.  
• Dustin recognized Kathy Flamson.  
• Kathy recognized Del Raby.  
• Doug, on Del’s behalf, recognized Bob Rogers.  
• Bob recognized Kevin Eisenberg.  
• Kevin recognized Bruce Campbell.  
• Bruce recognized Mike Merrill.  
• Tom Boylan recognized Jennifer Strong and Jennifer recognized Jim Flamson.  

Doug told Tom he is joining quite a crowd…find your passion and run with it.  “Welcome Tom”.   

Tom let us know he is truly honored and gave credit to Ken Moulton for getting him started working at the District level. Over the many years since Ken’s year as DG, Tom had an opportunity to work with numerous DGs and other District leaders and suggested he is looking forward to leaning on those individuals to find solutions we will need for the future.  

According to Tom, “There are a variety of problems that Rotary will face in the near future, but with creative ideas and collaboration, we can turn any problem into a positive solution. As we come out of all of this pandemic it is imperative to focus on how we can grow Rotary.  It’s going to call for a lot of innovation. Thank you to each of the people that took the time to join this meeting and especially to my fellow club members and to Melody.”

Tom shared that when he told Melody he was considering running for DG, she said “Oh Great,” because her father (Mel Montero), who had Sonoma Joe’s restaurant, was a Rotarian and he would complain because his club would meet at Sonoma Joe’s for their weekly meetings, but every time it came for a holiday party or something like that, they went off to some other restaurant.  So, over the years all he could say was “Damn Rotary”.  Tom said he has since won Mel over by talking about all the good Rotary has done since the old days of Sonoma Joe’s and Mel is delighted that  Tom put his hat in the ring.  

President Bill proposed a toast…Congratulations to Tom Boylan…here, here!  Tom will become the fifth DG to come from our club, which puts us one ahead of the Calistoga club and their four DGs!

Tom was also recognized by PDG Bob Rogers for the role he played in this past September training focused on Polio Plus which he promoted throughout the two Big West Rotary Zones.  

DG Doug said he heard the other day that an expert can share for one hour on a topic, but a past DG can share for four hours on nothing!  

JB Leep acknowledged Tom for the weekly duties as Scribe for the club and teased him about taking notes tonight.  Leah Hansen let Tom know he was off the hook for this evening’s Scribe activities.  

Maureen suggested we let the club know what a DG does at one of our meetings.  

President Bill closed the meeting jingling bells and wishing all a Merry Christmas!

The meeting was adjourned at 6:35 pm

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Here is the latest COVID update from your Rotary Club nurse:

We continue to be in a crisis situation in Sonoma County with our hospitals impacted, our nursing homes with no beds to put patients in, and home care starting to see our employees testing positive!  We are seeing more and more asymptomatic people who are testing positive all of which means more exposure in our community if people are not staying home, not traveling, and wearing masks.   This is real, not political, not a hoax, and is so personal to those who have lost loved ones.   My best friend lost her sister over the weekend that an ICU could not save.    Please help educate people to take this seriously and do their part!

Total Cases:        16,706  (last week 14,859)

New Cases:            Fri 169                 THIS IS 682 over 3 days!  (last week 691 – this was over 4 days)

                                Sat 302

                                Sun 211

                                Mon  not reported

Deaths:  174     (last week 164)

Hospitalized:   66 confirmed and 3 suspected    (last week 70 confirmed and 10 suspected)    Statewide, the number of hospitalizations continues to rise and is at a crisis level.    Hospitals are not able to handle the surge and are worried about a “surge on surge” with Christmas this week.

We have tested a Total of 359,276 and 12,351 recovered   (last week 3134,774 in our county with 11,350 people recovered)

Still seeing the largest number of cases in the Latinos (67% and whites are only 27% )    Service and sales continue to be the highest level of new positivity, then those unemployed and home care (my industry) keeping it at 3%.  Close contact (meaning close family or friend spread) is at 47% and 45% is still being determined.

Public Health Officer Mase issued a county shutdown on Dec. 12th in an effort to slow down the number of positive cases and need for admission to facilities and to stop the spread.

Despite this, we continue to see people not taking this seriously and out Christmas shopping, planning travel, and Christmas gatherings.

Vaccines have arrived in Sonoma County and will be used in our acute care hospitals to treat health care staff first.    Mase says she expects weekly delivery of the vaccine and will be given to other health care workers and support staff as it is received before going to the general public.  Our in-home care is expected to be in the second tier of those offered it.   However, until the majority of us are vaccinated with 2 injections, we must continue to wash our hands, wear our masks, stay home (not travel), and social distance.

Remember, outside family members or close friends are not part of your bubble and unless they have been tested and isolated for 10-14 days before being with you and you the same, it can be risky.   And if you see others from outside our county, have them and you quarantine for 10-14 days after.    We cannot be too careful!

Please each and everyone do your part in controlling this disease and keeps your guard up until the vaccine is available to the general public.   Let’s really become SONOMA COUNTY STRONG AGAIN and concentrate on taking precautions, sacrificing now so that we can have future holidays with our loved ones!

Thanks

Di

Videos

Full version of President Bill Bolster welcoming about 10 Past and Present District Governors from Rotary District 5130 gathered to announce that Tom Boylan, Windsor Rotary Past President will serve as District Governor in 2023-2024. Includes additional comments and joking around!

//youtube.com/embed/luYLPI0srzU

Short version includes only PDG and Tom’s comments.  No joking….

//youtube.com/embed/NJ1rzsSA-vU

We began gathering and sharing some holiday banter and just generally enjoying each other’s company.  President Bill Bolster let us know the meeting was on time when he rang the opening bell at 7:30… “Good Morning President Bill,” was the chorus of 36 in attendance.

We received a little review of the last meeting. It was a memory test. 

Alison Huber came back from Chicago to share a pledge of allegiance.

Barbara McChesney offered a quote by author Leo Buscaglia, “Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which has the potential to turn a life around.”

John How had a simple task and that was to get us to sing a song for Rudolph the Rotary President, No simple task at all.

No visiting Rotarians, but we had a few other guests. JB Leep introduced our speaker Jeff Davidson, to the program for today.  Heather Cullen introduced her children as guests for the day, welcome Autumn, Spring, and Ephraim. 

Barbara McChesney has only been a member of the Windsor Rotary for the past eight months, but she has risen to a higher level of service which is recognized by Pres Bill as he credits her with Rotarian of the Month for December.

The events we have coming up still need a few volunteers and Carol Martin asked us to consider volunteering wither our own time or others that we know to take part.

Windsor Middle School this past weekend had several Rotarians sharing in a drive-thru food drive that saw a lot of Windsor teens participating. 

Carol says she has enough boxes to package toy donations, but keep the toys coming.

Michael Merrill let us know there are still a few openings for bell ringers to carry on the Dick Bishop Holiday Bell Ringing. We need a few bodies for December 19th. Please let Mike know of your availability. Doug Williams stepped up and one more would make it a full schedule for the ringalings.

Sandie Krutz reminded us that we have been placed on teams that are being asked to adopt a family.  Each team is being asked to purchase gift cards and deliver these to Sandie’s home on Sunday, December 13th. Gift cards are preferred over gifts due to COVID complications. 

Doug Williams shared us know that we are prepared to hand off the gift cards for teachers. Each teacher in Windsor received a thank you letter and a $5 gift card for Cafe Noto. Thanks, Ken Moulton for your letter, thanks to Tom Boylan for developing the collateral, and a special thanks to Doug Williams for coordinating this project… and thank you to Sandie Krutz for the suggestion of plying our teachers with a caffeine drink.

We are reminded that we have a virtual Holiday Social slated for December 12th at the Club ZOOM Room starting at 6 PM. For those who need a pick up for their toys, connect with Renee Hyde and Paul who will be driving the Santa Mobile to pick up toys on Sunday the 13th, or you can drop the toys off at Carol Martin’s home.  The toys are slated to be handed off on December 19th at the Windsor Middle School under the guidance of the Windsor Fire Department and other non-profit groups from Windsor.

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Clipboard info:

• Dick Bishop Salvation Army Bell Ringing needs one more ding a ling. Contact Mike Merrill at mpmerr42@gmail.com, or call 707-484-0310
• Fundraisers – Need volunteers;   Food Drop Off, Santa Tim Gift Wrapping & Gifting –
  • Gift  Wrapping 7 Food Sorting  Till Dec 19
  •  Gift & Food Distribution         Dec 19 – Sign Up:  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60b0e49afa72ca5fa7-windsor1
• Boys & Girls Club “Families in Need” (8) Christmas Gift Cards
  •  Join in your group and help the family you have been assigned
  •  Questions – Your Group Leader or Sandie Krutz – sekrutz@aol.com  (650) 339-0953              
• February Valentine’s Day Tri-Tip – Contact Carol Martin at cm@marleep.com / 707-403-8200    
• “Ladies on Line” on Wednesday, December 16th at 5:30 contact Pam Moulton at pmoult@comcast.net / 707-328-0026
• Rotary District 5130 Disaster Relief Fund – Fires.
  • They will work hard to make sure every dollar donated will make a difference in someone’s life!
  • www.rotary5130.org/district-disaster-response-plan
  • Mail your donation to: Ashliegh Diehl, District 5130 Treasurer, 1315 Fourth Street, Eureka, Ca 95501

Next week is our ugly Christmas sweater contest… It sounds like there is going to be a prize, but we will have to tune in to see who wins the car… or maybe I got that wrong 

See Diane Brabitz’s COVID report at the bottom of the bulletin.

---

Program:

JB Leep let our speaker Jeff Davidson, former fire chief, and home builder know that we have 40 Rotarians in the house. Jeff let us know that he would hang around after our meeting ends to answer any questions that might come up.

Jeff is talking to us about his trek along the Camino de Santiago. His talk is titled the Journey is the Destination. We heard about his past as a fire chief and his work in Mexico building homes for the underserved. Jeff is also a current instructor with Santa Rosa JC’s Windsor Fire Academy.

The trip is a 500-mile walk, which has been a pilgrimage for many to arrive at the tomb of Apostle James. Over 20 million people have taken the trek. The journey starts in France and terminates in the Northwest of Spain. A comparison of what the distance might be in California. If you walked from Novato, Jeff’s hometown, to Disneyland, you would still have 30 more miles to go to equal the journey.

Jeff let us know he budgeted a certain number of miles each day. His budget was 20 miles a day for 25 days, and that is what it wound up being. He shared a photo of his passport sheet with multiple stamps commemorating his journey. As an avid hiker with time on his hands, he found a unique opportunity to head to Europe where his wife had a month-long assignment and she went to Italy and he started walking. 

For those who want to break in their walking shoes, Jeff shared a lot of the resources available to those who would like to walk the Camino. He also shared a photo of the items he did and didn’t need on his walk.  His recommendation is that you can lighten your load and it might get you a little farther down the road. 

The journey gave him an ability to connect through a Facebook, blog to keep his friends and family apprised of his experiences. Hostels were a regular sleeping area. Food was plentiful along the way, including meals offered at the Hostels.  It turned out to be a great way to enjoy the local delicacies to make it a highlight of the trip. 

The Camino allows you to walk on paths that still have the stones that were originally laid by Romans. There is a variety of art that can also be found on the paths. There was always some excitement to see a big city, but the noise increase became noticeable and that gave appreciation for the quiet time on the trail. 

Although this was a solo walk, Jeff met many others along the way and wound up seeing them often on the trek. He remains in touch with many of the friends he made along the way. 

Buen Camino!

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Here is the latest COVID update from your Rotary Club nurse:

TWO AMERICANS /MINUTE IS DYING OF COVID IN THE USA CURRENTLY!     (This is doubled from last week…..sigh)

Total Cases: 13,439  (last week 12,319)

New Cases:  Fri 175   THIS IS 516  (last week 319)    NEW CASES OVER THE WEEKEND AND THE LARGEST SURGE TO DATE!

 Sat 183, Sun 88, Mon 70, deaths:  160     (last week 157)

Hospitalized:   41 confirmed and 1 suspected    (last week 31 confirmed and32 suspected)    Statewide, the number of hospitalizations continue to rise has doubled since last month!  We have only 4 ICU beds left for care in Sonoma County for any kind of emergency

 We continue with 19% of our cases in the 25-34-year-olds and 17% in the 35-44-year-olds. We have tested a Total of 315,727 and 10,707 recovered   (last week 297,943 in our county with 10,010 people recovered)  

Still seeing the largest number of cases in the Latinos (70% and whites are only 23%) ; cases are coming from close community spread or close contact and largest industry testing positive is services and sales. (this is not health care workers)    2nd largest group of cases are still in people not working and are probably cases caught from a family member!  10% are healthcare workers.

Governor Newsom has issued a curfew from 10 pm to 5 am and also a one-month limited STAY AT HOME for non-essential personnel.  It has been recommended by Governor and the CDC that all travel be halted and that we not leave the Bay Area.    (they were previously saying Sonoma County but so many travels for work)   The issue with travel is not being on a plane but the time being in airports which is a closed, contained space.  The CDC has issued a NO Travel warning into Mexico and some states here in the US have implemented a 2 week quarantine period.

Public Health, the CDC, and most infectious disease Physicians are worried about the increase in cases (a surge on a surge!)   we will see because people did not stay at home and did travel; as well as the family /friend dinners that occurred locally with more than their own household bubble.  

We also have Christmas coming and again it is being stressed to not travel, stay at home and limit your contact as much as possible.  If you traveled at all and got together with others, the experts are advising you to get tested.   The experts are also seeing it is taking up to 4 weeks, not just 2 weeks to see new cases or new positives because of symptoms not being reported, not seeking MD visits, and then getting test results back.   By the time a Case Worker or Contact Tracer gets involved, it could be weeks.  Public Health is working nonstop trying to contain this virus but it will take every citizen to do their part.

Please each and everyone do your part in controlling this disease and keeps your guard up until the vaccine is available to the general public.   We are probably looking at 6 months and summer before we have enough immunity to see normal life again.   It is up to each of us!  We have issued a policy at our office that no one will be granted time off for vacation or travel.    

Let’s really become SONOMA COUNTY STRONG AGAIN and concentrate on taking precautions, sacrificing now so that we can have future holidays with our loved ones!

Thanks, Di

Ringing the Bell:  

Club President Bill Bolster opened the Zoom meeting at 7:31 am. Bill announced to  the Club that the grandson of Pegi Ball had suddenly passed away over the weekend.  Pegi is visiting her daughter, Nicole, and encouraged the Club to keep Pegi in their  thoughts and to send condolences if possible.

Pledge Allegiance was led by Karen Ricketts.  

Inspiration was provided by Susan Cole. “Keep pace always with the sunshine and the  shadows will fall behind you.” – Walt Whitman

Song was led by Heather Cullen as she led “Accentuate the Positive” as we prepared  for Election Day and whatever it may bring.

Guests of Rotarians:

• Guests of Rotarians included past member Jo Timmson introduced by Sue Nelson. Jo  expressed interest in returning to the Club which was meet with a round of applause.

Rotarian Guests: None

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Announcements: 

Rotarian of the Month  

• The Rotarian for the Month of November was announced. Congratulations to our own  Tom Boylan for the many ways he contributes to the Club. Tom is responsible for our  newsletter, maintenance of our web site and a variety of tasks at the District and Zone  level.

Help Wanted:  

• We are operating with a Rotary Clipboard that list the various needs of the club when it comes to volunteers. Identify the various needs and let members know they should either send an email to info@windsorrotary.co, or contact the person heading up the project in need of volunteers.

Covid 19  

A special shout out to Allison Huber and Glenn Sugden who are both recuperating from the Covid 19 viral infection.

Total Cases:        10,236  (last week 9778)

New Cases:            Fri 45

                                Sat 40

                                Sun 103

                                Mon 77

Deaths:  142     (last week 136)

Hospitalized:     26 confirmed and 6 suspected

There are now 19% of our cases in the 25-34-year-olds and 17% in the 35-44 year olds

We have tested a Total of 222,291 and 8211 recovered   (last week 213,129 in our county with 7404 people recovered)   Total negative tests 212,055

                (unfortunately, this number does reflect people who have tested more than once and our health care workers are testing monthly)

Sonoma County is still on the strictest Tier of Lockdown  (the Purple Tier – this is one time that being purple is not good!!!)    because we have been unable to stop the surge of new cases.  Our Transmission rate is still above the required 8% or lower, so it does not meet the State guideline in order to move into a less restrictive tier.    Sonoma County is the only Bay Area county still in the purple tier.

Sonoma county had 27 new cases of COVID that tested positive before the fires and had to evacuate and another 22 who were infected during the fires and evacuations.

Public Health and the CDC are very worried about an increase in numbers all over the USA from the Halloween celebrations and large gatherings which even here in Sonoma county took place.   Fines have been handed out to 2 such parties here in Sonoma County over the weekend that may have put all of us at risk.  We have got to get people who have symptoms to stop, isolate, and get tested.    (this is like stop, cover, and roll with an earthquake people, but related to our coronavirus!)   This could save hundreds of lives if people would be more cautious and think of others.

Again, I cannot stress enough to rethink your plans for the holidays.   I know most of us would like to be with family and are COVID fatigued, but the life you save could be yours or that of another family member.    Do not take the risk;   just because they are family members does not mean that spread of this virus cannot happen.   If you want a holiday festival or dinner then only 3 separate households, a total of 10 people or less and if someone is coming from out of our county, have them quarantined for 14 days and be tested before they come.   This is the only way we are going to contain this deadly disease!

I ask each and every one of you to believe in the reality of what is happening; this is not political, not a hoax nor is it media hype  – we have had over 200,000 deaths in the US!  Each one of these represents someone’s family member that cannot be at the table at Thanksgiving or Christmas even if they lived in the same household.    Do not let the political divide that has been occurring cloud the fact that we are in a real pandemic with real people dying who do not deserve to.   Help to control this awful, deadly disease so we can hug one again, socialize and support businesses.   It is up to each of us!

Let’s really become SONOMA COUNTY STRONG AGAIN.

Thanks

Di

Virtual District Conference 

• The District 5130 Conference was held on October 24, 2020. At that time, two  Windsor Rotarians who passed away this past year were honored for their service.  A moment of silence would be appropriate to honor long standing Rotarians Dick  Bishop and Carl Wiuff.  

Rotary Zone Institute  

• The Virtual Rotary Zone 26-27 Institute will be held on November 12-14, 2020. All  members are encourage to attend some of the sessions for great speakers and new  ideas.

CLIPBOARD:

• BINGO Night, Nov 12 – email Barbara McChesney with the number of  cards you want – barbsmcc@gmail.com
• Gassaku Ramen Night, Nov 6 – WHS Vineyard Academy. Sign up &  pay at https://m.bpt.me/event/4785396
• Dick Bishop Salvation Army Bell Ringing See Bill Bolster if you can assist in  the organization of the event to be conducted at Walmart on December 12 and 19  from 10:00 – 1:00pm. A giant kettle will be provided by the Salvation Army on  Saturday November 21 to accommodate drive by donations.

Rotary District 5130 Disaster Relief Fund – Fires. They will  work hard to make sure every dollar donated will make a difference in  someone’s life!  

Mail to: Ashliegh Diehl, District 5130 Treasurer

1315 Fourth Street

Eureka, Ca 95501

District Disaster Relief Fund

Fine master:

• No recognitions for this week. President Bill Bolster avoided the bullet by not acknowledging  his own anniversary on November 1!

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Program:  

SPEAKER; David Schreibman -”WHAT IS GEOCACHING?”  

David Schreibman is a past president of the Rotary Club of Sebastopol and an enthusiastic  advocate for geocaching. Geocaching is the practice of both hiding and searching for  “caches” that are hidden all over the world. These caches come in all sizes, types and are  hidden in a variety of locations. The hints to find these locations can be accessed by going to  your smart phone or going to the website geocaching.com. These hints allow you to find  caches hidden all over the world.

The size and value of the caches depend on the location and how they are hidden. They can  be hidden in trees, buried and/or using magnets and tape. The are categorized as  traditional, mystery, virtual, mule and earth caches. The caches are ranked in difficulty to  find on a range of 1-5. Using a GPS will usually get you within 10 feet of the hidden cache. It is up to you to find the “hidden treasure”.

David Schreibman has personally found over 400 caches and hidden over 300 during his  involvement in geocaching. Each cache uncovered needs to be “logged in” on the computer  and carefully returned to its original location. The simple rule for participating in geocaching  is “Cash-in Trash-out”. There are many sites to be discovered in both Windsor and Santa Rosa.  Geocaching is an enjoyable hobby. The search allows for both adventure and creativity in the  hiding and the finding. David encourages all to give it a try.

Closing:

Bill Bolster closed the meeting with a reminder to vote and to go out and do something  “Rotarian today.

Rotarians were gathering prior to that official bell being rung by President Bill Bolster. By 7:30 we were 25 in attendance. Pres Bill opened the meeting with a sad notice. Past member Laura Griswold-Hurley lost her husband Glen Hurley. You can contact her at 4865 Londonberry Drive, Santa Rosa, CA  95403

Cell number is: 707-322-4506 / Email – leslie@ersawyer.com

There were a couple of nice words shared regarding last week’s Craft-Talk speakers, our own Mike Merrill, and JB Leep. 

The inspiration came from Amy Grant via Barbara McChesney, “Thanksgiving day is a good day to recommit our energies to giving thanks and to just giving.”

John How took the club down memory lane with a rousing round of Twinkle Twinkle… Rotary.  An interesting play on words!

No visiting Rotarians, but Sue Nelson let us know our former member Jo Timmsen will be coming back to the club. We were reminded that the younger version of Jo was into parachuting, and along with rejoining the club, she is jumping out of airplanes again. I think an updated Craft talk will be forthcoming. 

Our guest today happens to be our speaker as well, Mimi Enright a Master Gardner

Tom Boylan, the resident scribe was recognized for all the kind words he has provided with his current role as Rotarian of the Month… the scribe thanks Bill and the rest of the club.

Our resident COVID nurse, Diane Brabitz shared a few of her thoughts on the silent killer that is so deeply set in our communities, locally, nationally, and globally. We heard how she has assigned more than 13 of her homecare nurses to the local hospitals to assist in the fight.

According to Diane, we have lost 150 people in Sonoma County alone and the number is expected to go up. Traveling is not a healthy decision, but staying aware of what you can do in our community and our homes become a potentially life-saving opportunity.

We are reminded that just because a vaccine is underway, plan for six more months of being on guard to stay healthy. 

Here is the latest COVID update from your Rotary Club nurse:

ONE AMERICAN /MINUTE IS DYING OF COVID IN THE USA CURRENTLY!

Total Cases: 11,608  (last week 11,055), New Cases: Fri 47, THIS IS 292  (last week 223)  

NEW CASES OVER THE WEEKEND AND THE LARGEST SURGE TO DATE!

Sat 65, Sun 58, Mon 122

Deaths:  155     (last week 150)

Hospitalized: 30 confirmed and 2 suspected    (last week 19 confirmed and 5 suspected) statewide, the number of hospitalizations has doubled since last month!     

We continue with 19% of our cases in the 25-34-year-olds and 17% in the 35-44-year-olds. 

We have tested a Total of 283,276 and 9625 recovered   (last week 226,144 in our county with 9163 people recovered)  

The largest number of cases in the Latinos, cases are showing coming from close community spread or close contact and largest industry testing positive is services and sales. (this is not health care workers)    2nd largest group of cases are in people not working and are probably cases caught from a family member!

Governor Newsom has issued a curfew from 10 pm to 5 am and also a one-month limited STAY AT HOME for non-essential personnel.  It has been recommended by Governor and the CDC that all travel be halted and that we not leave the Bay Area, (they were previously saying Sonoma County but so many travels for work). The issue with travel is not being on a plane but the time being in airports which is a closed, contained space.

Public Health and most infectious disease Physicians are asking that WE CANCEL THANKSGIVING CELEBRATIONS/DINNERS and KEEP DINNERS TO YOUR OWN HOUSEHOLD!  It is just too dangerous to have dinners with groups of people outside of your own household and do it safely.   If we want to be able to celebrate next year and have our loved ones there, then the sacrifice needs to happen now.   This virus is deadly, unseen, and can strike anyone.   Do not take chances with those you love or yourselves.   Stay home, stay in your bubble, and Zoom.   Do not get together …  As the MD’s are saying, “if you invite someone outside of your household, even a family member, to dinner for Thanksgiving, then you could be planning their funeral in December!”

 Please do your part in controlling this disease and keep your guard up until the vaccine is available to the general public.   We are probably looking at 6 months and summer before we have enough immunity to see normal life again.   It is up to each of us!

Let’s really become SONOMA COUNTY STRONG AGAIN.  I wish everyone a safe, healthy, and Happy Thanksgiving, and hope you do it on Zoom!

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President Bill suggests we go ZOOM for this year’s Thanksgiving.

Barbara McChesney shared the following info to join the Petaluma Sunrise Rotary environment committee for “Movie Night!” when they will be showing “Climate Restoration Solutions” from the 2nd Annual Global Climate Restoration Forum – with time 4 discussion/questions afterward. Share this info and be sure to bring your own popcorn. The date is Saturday 11-28-2020, 7-9 PM.  COME FIND OUT HOW LEAVING A WORLD WE’RE PROUD OF FOR OUR CHILDREN IS POSSIBLE!

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89649870033

Meeting ID: 896 4987 0033

Homepage

Glenn Sugden got a shout out for his generosity in a donation to the Windsor Rotary Community Foundation in the past year. Brian Ling reminded some of us that SCHBC, Sonoma County Hot Air Balloon event, was jump-started by John Lewis, our official founder of Windsor Rotary Club. Brian went on to explain that John’s interest in model trains made the train whistle an appropriate recognition for when members make a donation. Once you have donated $1000 you become a John Lewis Fellow, currently, our club has 32 current Fellows. We are reminded that we have the endowment fund and a “local projects fund.” Every dollar you donate is tax-deductible.

We found out from JB that we now have a payment portal available on the WindsorRotary.org website. Easy to use and every donation is accounted for. 

Contact Mike Merrill to get your name on the bucket that stands next to a Rotarian as they ringadabell. 

We heard we had an amazing season of giving for our Food Drives. Heather Cullen thanked all for their participation.

We are promoting Rotary Socials

Toy Drive for the holiday social has a fun spin. You will get an invite and you are asked to purchase a toy that reminds you of a fellow club member. The holiday social is set for December 12th, 6 pm via Zoom. Look for your email invite to arrive shortly.

There is a clipboard with a few opportunities to be active in the club. The following has been promoted by Pres. Bill. 

• Dick Bishop Salvation Army Bell Ringing needs a few ding a lings. Contact Mike Merrill at            mpmerr42@gmail.com, or call 707-484-0310

Fundraisers – Need volunteers

•  Santa Tim Gift Wrapping – Contact Glenn Sugden at glenn@thirdworkshop.com  / 707-696-9906    
•  February Valentine’s Day Tri-Tip – Contact Carol Martin at cm@marleep.com / 707-403-8200    
• “Boys with Bandwidth” on December 3rd at 7 PM contact Michael Juric at michaelj7@comcast.net /707-478-7527
•  “Ladies on Line” on Wednesday, December 16th at 5:30 contact Pam Moulton at pmoult@comcast.net / 707-328-0026

 Rotary District 5130 Disaster Relief Fund – Fires.

• They will work hard to make sure every dollar donated will make a difference in someone’s life!
• www.rotary5130.org/district-disaster-response-plan
•  Mail your donation to: Ashliegh Diehl, District 5130 Treasurer, 1315 Fourth Street, Eureka, Ca 95501

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Advice to Grow By…

JB did an introduction of today’s speaker Mimi Enright, Program Manager for the UC Master Gardner, which sounds a lot more fun than her professional past with IBM. She became planted in Luther Burbank country and works on several projects that deal with food waste. 

Who knew that Abraham Lincoln was integral to the development of the Master’s Gardner program.  We all do now.  1972 became the startup year for the Master Gardner program to start in Washington State, California finally grew up in 1982 to start their first MG program. In 2019 the organization donated more than 20,000 hours to helping gardeners.  The road to becoming a badge holder includes 16 weeks of training, and the hours required to maintain the MG rating continues after your being awarded the title.

The MG program is focused on non-commercial homeowners in Sonoma County. The group spends time working on a variety of problems that gardeners face, from soil to pests and beyond. They are also promoting water conservation through sustainable gardening techniques.  You can find their booth at the Farmers Market to get additional information.  Or you can head to the website to get your education growing: http://sonomamg.ucanr.edu/.  If you have a specific question you are invited to email the program at mgsonoma@ucanr.edu. 

President Bill thanked Mimi for educating us. He also suggests that we leave our work behind this week but that we do something Rotarian for those who need help. Happy Thanksgiving. 

Club President Bill Bolster opened the Zoom meeting at 7:31 am.  

The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Leah Hansen.  

The inspiration was provided Barbara MeChesney. “Plant the seeds of happiness, Love, and  Hope and they will following you anywhere.”  

“Good Day Sunshine” was led by Leah Hansen.

Salute to Veterans  

In honor of Veterans Day on November 11, President Bill Bolster honored the Rotary  Veterans that were in the audience. A huge thank you and well-deserved salute to the following veterans.

• Bill Bolster – Navy  
• Tom Boylan – Army  
• John Hackenburg Navy Pilot  
• Mike Merrill – Marine Corp  

Guests of Rotarians  

Our Guest speaker Elizabeth Gore will be. Joining us in a few minutes. 

Rotarian Guests  

None  

Announcements  

Rotarian of the Month 

• The Rotarian for the Month of November was again recognized. Congratulations to our own Tom Boylan for the many ways he contributes to the Club. Tom is responsible for our newsletter, maintenance of our website and a variety of tasks at the District and  Zone level. 

Zone 26-27 Institute  

• The Zone 26-27 Institute will be virtually held this weekend November 12-14. Tom  Boylan, a recent guest, and presenter on Public Image, shared his impressions of attending this conference. Tom talked about the great speakers and training sessions that would be available to those attending. In the past, the Zone Institute was only open to District Governors and special guests. Recently it has been open to all  Rotarians. Tom encourages all members to try to attend at least one of the three days to get a better understanding of Rotary as an international organization. The cost is only  $49 for any or all of the sessions.  

Michael Juric: International Man of Mystery  

• Michael Juric was highlighted for his many contributions to Rotary International at the district, Zone, and international levels. Michael has served as both a presenter and curriculum chair at several Zone Conferences. He is a trainer for leadership with the  Rotary International Board of Directors and will be presenting February at the  International Assembly made up of the over 500 sitting District governors in the world.  A special shout out to our no longer “International Man of Mystery”.  

Windsor High School Build Academy  

• Carol Martin reported out on the progress of the WHS BUILD Construction Academy. The storage unit purchased with Rotary funds was delivered this past weekend under the watchful eyes of Marie Ganister, Grace Curin-Fiano and Carol Martin. This storage unit will be used to house the tools that will be purchased through a Rotary District Grant in order to kick off the BUILD Academy after the first of the year.

Help Wanted:  

We are operating with a Rotary Clipboard that lists the various needs of the club when it comes to volunteers. Identify the various needs and let members know they should either send an email to info@windsorrotary.co or contact the person heading up the project in need of volunteers. 

CLIPBOARD 

Gassaku Ramen Night, November 6 – WHS Vineyard Academy.  

• Sandy Krutz reported out that the Gassaku fundraiser served over 300 meals and provided a tasty and savory meal for all participants. Bill Bolster did not fully appreciate the meal as he forgot to add the broth…the noodles were a little dry stated the perplexed Bill!  

Valentines Day Tri-Tip Fundraiser  

• Barbara Mc Chesney announced that there will be a mini fundraiser on February 14, Valentine’s Day. Windsor Rotary will again partner with the Culinary Arts department of  WHS to raise money to support the Windsor Rotary Community Foundation. Contact  Carol Martin (707-403-8200 ) cm@marleep.com<mailto:cm@marleep.com>  

BINGO Night  

• A reminder that November 12 is the bingo night for the Rotary Club of Windsor.  Please email Barbara McChesney with the number of cards you want to order at barbsmcc@gmail.com

Dick Bishop Salvation Army Bell Ringing 

• See Bill Bolster if you can assist in the organization of the event to be conducted at  Walmart on December 12 and 19 from 10:00 – 1:00 pm. A giant kettle will be provided by the Salvation Army on Saturday, November 21 to accommodate drive-by donations. Sign -Up with Bill Bolster.

HOLIDAY PARTY – December 12  

• Holiday Party is being arranged and will be coordinated by Joan Mora. Contact Joan  Mora (707-326-8152)
• joan@windsorgymnastics.com<mailto:joan@windsorgymnastics.com>

Rotary District 5130 Disaster Relief Fund – Fires. They will work hard to make sure every dollar donated will make a difference in someone’s life!  

Mail to: Ashliegh Diehl, District 5130 Treasurer                                   

1315 Fourth Street 

Eureka, Ca 95501 

District Disaster Relief Fund

Fine master  

No recognitions for this week. President Bill Bolster avoided the bullet by not acknowledging his own anniversary on November 1! 

Covid Corner

Total Cases:        10,236  (last week 9778)

New Cases:            Fri 45

Sat 40

Sun 103

Mon 77

Deaths:  142     (last week 136)

Hospitalized:     26 confirmed and 6 suspected

There are now 19% of our cases in the 25-34 year olds and 17% in the 35-44 year olds

We have tested a Total of 222,291 and 8211 recovered   (last week 213,129 in our county with 7404 people recovered)   Total negative tests 212,055

(unfortunately this number does reflect people who have tested more than once and our health care workers are testing monthly)

Sonoma county is still on the strictest Tier of Lock down  (the Purple Tier – this is one time that being purple is not good!!!)    because we have been unable to stop the surge of new cases.  Our Transmission rate is still above the required 8% or lower, so it does not meet the State guideline in order to move into a less restrictive tier.    Sonoma County is the only Bay Area county still in the purple tier.

Sonoma county had 27 new cases of COVID that tested positive before the fires and had to evacuate and another 22 who were infected during the fires and evacuations.

Public Health and the CDC are very worried about an increase in numbers all over the USA from the Halloween celebrations and large gatherings which even here in Sonoma county took place.   Fines have been handed out to 2 such parties here in Sonoma county over the weekend that may have put all of us at risk.  We have got to get people who have symptoms to stop, isolate and get tested.    (this is like stop, cover and roll with an earthquake people, but related to our coronavirus!)   This could save hundreds of lives if people would be more cautious and think of others.

Again , I cannot stress enough to rethink your plans for the holidays.   I know most of us would like to be with family and are COVID fatigued, but the life you save could be yours or that of another family member.    Do not take the risk;   just because they are family members does not mean that spread of this virus cannot happen.   If you want a holiday festival or dinner then only 3 separate households, a total of 10 people or less and if someone is coming from out of our county, have them quarantine for 14 days and be tested before they come.   This is the only way we are going to contain this deadly disease!

I ask each and every one of you to believe in the reality of what is happening; this is not political, not a hoax nor is it media hype  – we have had over 200,000 deaths in the US!  Each one of these represents someone’s family member that cannot be at the table at Thanksgiving or Christmas even if they lived in the same household.    Do not let the political divide that has been occurring cloud the fact that we are in a real pandemic with real people dying who do not deserve to.   Help to control this awful, deadly disease so we can hug one again, socialize and support businesses.   It is up to each of us!

Let’s really become SONOMA COUNTY STRONG AGAIN.

Thanks

Di

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Program:  

SPEAKER; Elizabeth Gore – “Hello Alice”  

Elizabeth Gore is an articulate, bright woman that has been involved in promoting small business development after relocating to Sonoma County over a decade ago. Elizabeth has a  BA in Animal Services and an MA in Business Development. Prior to moving to Sonoma County, she was involved in the Peace Corps where she met supervisor James Gore. Elizabeth also worked for the United Nations in the area of Global Health while in Washington. She is the founder of “Hello Alice”, a non-profit organization designed to provide business advice for small start-up businesses run by women.  

Hello Alice is a nonprofit organization designed to access business funding for small entrepreneurs. It provides small businesses with speakers, mentors, and sources for acquiring business assets. Their motto is to “Survive and Thrive” which accounts for the resilience of many small businesses in Sonoma County. Hello Alice focus on women and minority start-up businesses and data and technology for being successful in the business world. In addition, It provides emotional support since health, depression, and anxiety are often the number one barriers to business success.  

In closing, Elizabeth shared that the name “Hello Alice” comes from Alice in Wonderland where Alice completes a mystical and entrepreneurial journey. Hello Alice is allowing many women in Sonoma County to complete this journey.  

Closing  

Bill Bolster closed the meeting with a reminder to vote and to go out and do something  “Rotarian today.

Bill Bolster thanked Elizabeth and closed the meeting at 8:31.

Bell ringing started at 7:31 and President Bill Bolster reminded us of last week’s program offered by Elizabeth Gore regarding Ask Alice.

Michael Juric shared the news that Ken Moulton has been diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig ’s disease. He is off on a road trip today and he is experiencing this life-changing event in typical Ken fashion.)

Renee Hyde offered a pledge to the flag and although we offered it willingly, we also did it in some somber tones.

Doug Williams was called on to share the Four-Way Test, and that’s the truth. 

Be inspired; “How wonderful it is that nobody need wait for a single moment to improve the world.” according to Ann Frank and recited by Barbara McChesney.

JB Leep sang a little Yeah, Yeah, Yeah along with a few other lyrics offered by Paul McCartney and John Lennon.

Wally Krutz shared the basics of where the Rotary four-way test got its start, the Aluminum Company was trying to turn around its bottom line and came up with a test that when his people followed, they wound up bringing their company back into the profit column. Rotary adopted the test in an effort to promote the basic tenets of the way to model life.

No visitors of any kind but 35 of us were in attendance.

The scribe, Tom Boylan, got a shout out for being the Rotarian of the Month.

Glenn Sugden let us know our first official Rotary Virtual Bingo went over well with lots of friendship and a few cocktails. Sandi Krutz let us know that the ultimate winner drove away with a Ferrari. 

Dick Bishop Memorial Bell Ringing

• We need a coordinator for the Dick Bishop Memorial Bell Ringing sign-ups. Let President Bill know if you can help. We found out that Dianne Brabitz keeps a kettle in her office to promote donations, and Dianne is planning to match the contents of the kettle and make it a donation to the Windsor Rotary Foundation. Those who sign up to assist with the bell ringing need to work either solo or as a couple, so partners are welcome to ring in some cheer and dollars. Before this scribe could finish this thought, the bell ringing coordinator slot was filled by Mike Merrill.
• Mike and Bill are in need of some company! Sign up and help us ring the bell by calling Mike Merrill 707-484-0310

Heather Cullen says this is the last week of the food drive. She is hoping we can muster a few Thanksgiving dinners to feed those less fortunate. 

Renee Hyde is working on a Virtual Holiday Social. She says we need to look around for a toy that reminds us of one of our fellow Rotarians. An idea to purchase a cash register toy that would represent Ed Turner. The event is slated for December 19th and there was a straw poll showing that most of us like the idea. There will be more info to come from Rene as things develop.   Carol Martin started a poll to see what times people were willing to attend. It appears 6 PM to 8 PM is looking festive.

Susan Cole reminded us there is a possibility to adopt a family for the holidays, in addition to our toy drive. 

December third is when Boys with Bandwidth meets. Let Michael Juric know you are interested in attending.

President Bill is reminding everyone that scribes and bell ringers are needed. Send your volunteer email to info@windsorrotary.co.

COVID CORNER

Diane Brabitz, our COVID nurse sent the following chat notice:

Public Health and most infectious disease docs are recommending we cancel big family dinners and only do with your household members.  it is the only way we will stand a chance of containing this virus until the vaccine can be distributed.” Di.

In addition, she sent the latest in her COVID reports:

Total Cases:        11,055  (last week 10,455)

New Cases:            Fri 68

Sat 98

Sun 125

Mon 85

THIS IS 223 NEW CASES OVER THE WEEKEND AND THE LARGEST SURGE TO DATE!

Deaths:  150     (last week 146)

Hospitalized:     19 confirmed and 5 suspected

There are now 19% of our cases in the 25-34-year-olds and 17% in the 35-44-year-olds

We have tested a Total of 226,144 and 9163 recovered   (last week 222,291 in our county with 8534 people recovered)   Total negative tests 215,689

• (unfortunately, this number does reflect people who have tested more than once and our health care workers are testing monthly)

Sonoma County is still on the strictest Tier of Lockdown  (the Purple Tier – this is one time that being purple is not good!!!)    Because we have been unable to stop the surge of new cases.  The Tiers are based on 3 metrics …… new daily cases per 100,000 residents, the overall percentage of positive tests, and the test positivity rates in the county’s most disadvantaged neighborhoods.  Our Public Health Officer is trying to get the State to include data from the private labs that are testing but are not reporting data to the State because it would bring Sonoma County down to the required numbers.  However, we are seeing many of the counties that moved forward falling back into the stricter tiers because of the resurgence of positive cases.

Public Health and the CDC are very worried about an increase in numbers all over the USA from the celebrations in the Streets and in Washington DC from the elections, various Halloween celebrations, and continuous large gatherings that are occurring in Sonoma county.    Again, I emphasize – “We have got to get people who have symptoms to stop, isolate, and get tested!”    (this is like stop, cover, and roll with an earthquake people, but related to our coronavirus!)   This could save hundreds of lives if people would be more cautious and think of others.  

Please, please if you listen to anything, RETHINK YOUR PLANS FOR THE HOLIDAYS OF THANKSGIVING AND CHRISTMAS!   I know most of us would like to be with family and are COVID fatigued, but the life you save could be yours or that of another family member.    Do not take the risk;   just because they are family members does not mean that spread of this virus cannot happen.   If you want a holiday festival or dinner then only 3 separate households, a total of 12 people or less and if someone is coming from out of our county, have them quarantined for 14 days and be tested before they come.   This is the only way we are going to contain this deadly disease!

Help to control this awful, deadly disease so we can hug one again, socialize and support businesses.   It is up to each of us!

Let’s really become SONOMA COUNTY STRONG AGAIN.  Thanks, Di

Announcements

Leslie Lewis decided to return as a fine-master and picked off the easy ones that thought they were celebrating their birthday in a low key manner. Susan Cole thought her dinner at Coppola’s was chilly enough to offer a healthy donation to the Rotary Foundation. 

Doug Williams tried to make us feel sorry for him because he spent his birthday in a board meeting. Doug shared he got a great birthday present in the form of a Medicare card and made a donation to the John Lewis Foundation and that’s when Brian Ling blew the whistle. 

Leslie then went after our president and asked him to share his anniversary of 51 years celebration. He must not have left a tip at Cabianca in Santa Rosa, because he made a generous donation to the Foundation.  

Joan Mora made a donation for the welcoming of Isabella Vida La Rosa, her granddaughter.  Doug Williams decided to offer a donation on behalf of John Nelson who is concluding 17 years as a Fire Board member. 

Program

Craft talks were introduced by JB, who offered to allow Maureen Merrill the honors for introducing Mike Merrill, who then went on to introduce himself…. and this from a man who needs no introduction.

Mike started this journey in the world as a native of San Francisco living in the shadow of Coit Tower. At an early age, his family made the move to Nevada City, California. Ironically when he was a kid in SF he played cowboy and when he moved to Nevada City he became one. 

Growing up in Nevada City was more akin to growing up in the American Graffiti style of life, but that changed when he made the move back to San Francisco and attended the University of San Francisco where he eventually graduated with his Law degree. We had an opportunity to see a photo of Mike the athlete in a soccer uniform. 

In 1963 he went off to OCS for the Marine Corp and wound up with more legal training and eventually went to Vietnam as a Judge Advocate. 

He became active in Rotary after moving to Santa Rosa where he tried to join the Santa Rosa Club and found they were not too receptive, so he went off and formed a club called Santa Rosa West Rotary Club. He eventually became the president and eventually went on to serve as a District Governor. The best thing he found in Santa Rosa was a young woman who became Mrs. Merrill…

Mike shared his passion for flying was only matched by his concern for the Humane Society of Sonoma County and other groups. One of his many committees included the founding of the Sonoma County Airport Committee in 2005. That group receives the credit for bringing commercial aviation back to Santa Rosa. Mike gave a lot of credit to his partner and our fellow Rotarian, Bill Arnone for his work at bringing airlines into Sonoma County. 

We were fortunate to have our new member share that the work at the airport is still moving on.

JB Leep did his own introduction and we shared a dramatic “JB!” on the screen. He let us know that he was born in Stanford Hospital, which is a reverse coincidence since he went on to graduate from Stanford University. 

He shared a series of images showing a handsome young man getting into Ham Radio and other activities. Eventually, that young man went off to an East Coast prep school, with one drawback… it was all boys. We had a chance to see a photo of JB as a football player, but he shared that it was a fortunate injury that ended his sports career and saved him from having to play additional games. It was no game that he won an award for mathematics and science when he graduated and that helped open the door to his education at Stanford University.

JB let us know that an MG can actually make it cross country. He hobnobbed with people like Harry Hamlin of TV fame who also was a British car enthusiast. 

We found out that JB’s dad was a Navy man until he left the service and began a home building company, Leep Homes. JB spent a lot of time learning the trades from the shovel up.

World travel included time in Italy where he learned the language to better fit in. His world travels became a love of his, having spent time throughout the middle east and around the world. After his travels brought him home he wound up graduating from Stanford. 

The wanderlust returned when he went off to Europe to drive a VW van across the continent. We heard of many adventures prior to his return to America where he sought out a past love who became his wife and partner in many ways, including in the clothing business. Tragically his wife was lost in a freak accident on the couple’s property and shortly afterward he opted to leave the clothing business, which happened to be called JB Harper. The moniker he uses today was found when he was all of 35 years old. 

We concluded the meeting with a Go Bears theme and the CAL cheer. In honor of our own Ken Moulton; Go Bears, Go Bears! 

Good Day fellow Rotarians and friends and family who are reading our weekly bulletin.  Today’s minutes are from TUESDAY, October 6, 2020.

President Bill rang the bell at 7:30, following about 15 minutes of “catching up on the latest” amongst the members on Zoom. It was great having some chat time and seeing the faces of fellow Rotarians.

Sue Nelson led us in the Pledge of Allegiance.  

The weekly Inspiration was presented by Susan Cole who quoted 2011 Nobel Peace Laureate:  Leymah Gbowee

“Don’t wait for a Gandhi. 

 Don’t wait for a King

Don’t wait for a Mandela.

You are your own Mandela. 

You are your own Gandhi.

You are your own King.”

At 7:35, we had 34 joining us!

Normally we are a singing club; President Bill spared us this morning and passed over the song. 

 We had No VISITING ROTARIANS today

Guests of Rotarians:  Our Guest Speaker Matt Stevens

Announcements

• Heather Cullen was announced as our October Rotarian of the Month.  You will find Heather involved in numerous Rotarian activities. Heather has spearheaded and continues to work tirelessly on our weekly Food Security Drive.  Heather is also involved with our Students, Schools & Community.  She runs the Odyssey of the Mind Program in Windsor, Student Choir, Puts on Student Plays, and Community Talent Show.  

Carol Martin announced  Build Construction at Windsor High School

Ground Breaking next week-end for the 20’ storage container – for storing tools and equipment

We received approval on our District Matching Grant which will provide:

1. Basic Tools for 30 Students
2. Materials for the first student project.

October 13:  Marie Ganister from Windsor High School will be our speaker

 with program update and details  

Rotary Socials with Social Distancing:

October 8th: 5:30pm Just Drinking at Bill Bolster’s home;  6500 Fraught Rd SR                                           

Bring your own chair, blanket, jacket, and wine glass if you don’t want plastic. Comfortable Shoes for the country recommended, Air Hugs Only.We are limited to 15 people, so please sign up early by sending a message to Pam Moulton at pmoult@comcast.net

October 14th: Ladies on line – Pam Moulton

October 28th: Boys on Bandwidth – Michael Juric  

November 12th: Bingo Night!

Pam Moulton recalled when we did “take a Rotarian to lunch” and how much it was enjoyed; this could be a good social distancing contact: in person or zoom, getting the opportunity to get acquainted or refresh your friendship with a fellow Rotarian.  President Bill would like to see a social once a month suggestions welcome. 

District 5130 Disaster Relief Fund

They will work hard to make sure every dollar donated will make a difference in someone’s life! 

Mail to: Ashliegh Diehl, District 5130 Treasurer       1315 Fourth Street       Eureka, Ca 95501

District Disaster Relief Fund

COVID CORNER:

 Total Cases:        8101    (7412 last week)

                New cases             Fri  84

                                                Sat  47

                                                Sun 62

                                                Mon 79                            

Deaths:  122     (last week 122 – stable although hospitalizations are up)

Hospitalized:      31 confirmed and 8 suspected           

We continue to see 19% of our cases in the 25-34-year-olds and 17% in the 35-44-year-olds

We have tested a total of 182,113 in our county and have 6408 people recovered

Sonoma County is still on the strictest Tier of Lockdown because we have been unable to stop the surge of new cases and hospitalizations.  Public Health feels this could still be from social outings during Labor Day and of course the evacuations from our recent several fires.  We cannot encourage enough the need for everyone to get their flu vaccine as soon as possible.   We do not need an epidemic of flu on top of COVID.   It would devastate our County residents.  Even if you do not feel you need it, you are protecting others by getting yours.

This is my personal observations and not meant to be taken in any sense Political…..   Please practice responsible behavior and follow the 3 W’s (wash your hands, wear your mask and watch your distance!!!!)    Our President being part of super spreader events and getting COVID has not helped educate the general public when he makes statements “that getting COVID is no big thing and you can fight it!”    He was given medications and treatments that are not available to any of us, had the very best medical care, and then demonstrates irresponsible behavior that will not help the spread of this disease.  He is also being treated with steroids that make you feel great, powerful, but weaning off them is a big come down.   The medical communities who are trying to save lives are livid and rightfully so – this was irresponsible and harmful.

Remember your “bubble or pod” are those that you live with; not extended family and friends.   Wear your masks, wash your hands, and social distance. do not share communal food.  thanks

Di

Help Wanted:

• Tom Boylan is still looking for scribes.  Thank you Pam for your great work in September, Pegi is doing October & Ken November.  
• Robotics is being delayed due to the unfortunate situation of President Nominee Glenn Sugden being exposed to COVID on his return trip home.   Our thoughts are with Glenn and wishing him a speedy recovery.
• For anyone interested in being District Governor, information is on the District website

UPCOMING MEETINGS

• October 8th – Cocktails at President Bill’s – limit to 15 people
• October 10th – Alzheimer’s Association walk to End Alzheimer’s   
• October 13th – Marie Gannister from WHS Vineyard Academy
• October 24th – PDG Kathy Flamsen’s virtual District Conference

Fine master:

Leslie Lewis was not with us today again Ken Moulton took over, although no fines were imposed  Ken reminded us that when the Rotary Club of Windsor first formed in 1987 there was not much in Windsor, it was an unincorporated part of Sonoma County.  The Rotary Club of Windsor started their meetings in the bar of the Windsor Bowling Allery, and it was the first year women were allowed to join Rotary.  Ken ask charter members what they remembered about those beginning days and what attracted them to join Rotary. 

Charter member, Past President Bill Arnone stated he had only been in Santa Rosa one month, when his partner’s, then-girlfriend, Maureen Merrill, invited him to a Rotary meeting, he first thought it would be a good way to meet people in a new community, the rest is history.

Charter member Diane Brabetz said Rotary saved her husband’s life, Les  had a heart attack while at their home in Mexico and it was the Rotarians there that assisted them in getting medical attention and provided emotional support

Charter member past president & PDG Maureen Merrill reflected on how our club founder John Lewis was supportive of women in Rotary, even though the feeling was not as positive in other Rotary Clubs.  The Windsor Rotary Club was started with 56 members, 19-20 of them women.

Charter member past president was intrigued by a group meeting in a bar, doing self-introductions; Sue did not start out thinking it would be a 33-year membership.

Charter member past president Ed Turner said he was working for the Press Democrat at the time John Lewis was forming the Rotary Club of Windsor,  John invited former PD Publisher John Weeks, who declined but passed the invitation on to Ed Turner. 

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Today’s Program:  

Matt Stevens Community and Media Relations Manager for Smart introduced by Doug Williams

When Matt is not working for Smart he enjoys traveling, hiking & biking, he is a partner in a Fishing Ranch in Idaho and has two children, his Son is a paramedic-firefighter in Santa Rosa.

The Smart Train celebrated a 3 year anniversary in August, a lot has happened since our last Smart Train update three years ago.  In the past 3 years, the Smart Train has carried over 1.9 million passengers, carried 7,000 wheelchairs, & 192,000 bicycles.

Two new stations were opened in December 2019, one at the Larkspur Ferry Terminal &Downtown Novato.

Smart Board of Directors placed a measure on the March 2020 Ballot to extend the current ¼ cent sales tax for an additional 20 years.

The existing ¼ cent sales tax has produced $289 million in revenues through the Fiscal year 2018.  Smart leveraged that revenue to secure an additional $323 million in funding – effectively doubling the sales tax income. 

Extending the sales tax would have enabled SMART to save $12.2 annually by restructuring debt payments and reducing debt costs annually from $18 million to $6 million.    Ballot Measure 1 failed.

Post Measure 1 SMART reduced expenses:

Cut twelve staff positions

Reduced service schedule   (38 to 16 trips a day & no weekend service)

Eliminated onboard WiFi 

Brought customer service in-house   

Riders down 90% since March – COVID-19  

Doing more with less 

Post Measure 1 Opportunity

On September 2, 2020, the SMART Board of Directors launched a community-wide Listening Tour across Sonoma and Marin counties, hosted on Zoom, to bring community members together to exchange ideas on how to best position SMART for the future.

Due to COVID-19, SMART is taking advantage of historically low-interest rates and doing a small “refi” that will save $3million.

When Sonoma County Health Officers issued a shelter in place orders due to COVID, SMART, rose to the occasion by implementing thorough cleaning and social distancing protocols in accordance with the Center for Disease Control guidelines.  

SMART has not had any COVID outbreaks.

Windsor extension construction started December 2019 and is expected to be completed in 2022.

Q&A

1. Tom Boylan: How SMART has gotten so far off the mark on completing the train to Cloverdale?
2. Matt responded that in 2008 the sales tax measure was approved, however, in 2009-10, the recession hit, revenue was lower than anticipated and the Board of Directors of SMART froze projects, fast forward & SMART has accomplished a lot in addition, doubled the sales tax, completed the stations in San Rafael, Larkspur, Novato,  SR Airport and now working on Windsor.  They do not have a date for completion to Cloverdale, challenges of rail at the bridge in Healdsburg.

Doug Williams stated if felt the SMART has been beneficial removing cars off the road and removing trucks will be better.

Matt stated SMART has been in communication with Senator Mike McGuire concerning the Great Redwood trail in Willits South.  SMART will be managing freight route,  (parts of the conversation got past me, however, I understood SMART will be managing business freight route in the future).

Wally Krutz compared Sonoma County public transportation to Australia & other European countries, where public transportation was better connected, bus, ferries. 

Matt responded previously to COVID, SMART had connections with Golden Gate Transit & the Ferry, however, connections have been lost since COVID, Matt stated Golden Gate Transit ridership is down to 1% of pre-COVID, & The Ferry 15% of pre-COVID. 

Michael Juic stated he supports public transportation and ask what we could do to support public transportation?

Matt agreed it will take a change in the norm, we all need to think of new ways of travel.  

Post Note:  Lamar Collins did NOT lose his house to fire, suffered smoke damage but grateful to have a home and for all the well wishes.

President Bill thanked Matt for coming to the club today and closed with 

“If you want to hear God laugh, tell him your plans “

In 2020 God would be laughing in the aisles watching all of us grabble with plans that look like they have been assaulted with an ugly stick. For me, laughing is better than crying, so I am staying positive and remaining thankful for the healthy friends and families we can still embrace. It feels tragic, for sure but if you think about it, it is so crazy it is laughable.

Respectfully submitted,

Pegi Ball 

President Bill rang the bell at 7:30, following about 15 minutes of “catching up on the latest” amongst the members on Zoom. It was great having some chat time and seeing the faces of fellow Rotarians.

Pledge of Allegiance: Led by Barbara Mc Chesney  

The weekly Inspiration was presented by Susan Cole

“Friendship is the hardest thing in the world to explain. It’s not something you learn in school. But if you haven’t learned the meaning of friendship, you really haven’t learned anything.” — Muhammad Ali

At 7:45 we had 46 joining us!

JB Leep, led the club in a rousing version of Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow, 

VISITING ROTARIANS:  Our very own Glenda Sales was present today, great to see her.  We also had a special visitor; Paul Bayley from the Rotary Club of Windsor England, most Rotary meetings are being conducted on Zoom, Paul has visited four Windsor Rotary Meetings: Windsor Canada, Windsor Australia, and two others that he could not remember.  Paul was asked the difference or similarity of clubs, he stated our club was much jollier than his, most likely because our members were much younger than members of his club, but he said we were similar in our community spirit.  He enjoyed being a part of our club.  Paul was invited to visit again, however, our meeting starts at 3 am England time, probably won’t happen too often. 

Guests of Rotarians: 

• Ken MacNab: City Manager Town of Windsor
• Lori MacNab, Debra Fudge: Windsor Town Council Member
• Ester Lemus: Windsor Vice Mayor
• Jon Davis: Windsor Parks & Recreation Department
• Jessica Jones: Windsor Community Development Director
• Maria de O Town Clerk
• John Jaeger: Interim Public Works Director,   

Heather Cullen: Rotarian of the Month 

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Clip Board: 

District 5130 Disaster Relief Fund

They will work hard to make sure every dollar donated will make a difference in someone’s life! 

Mail to: Ashliegh Diehl, District 5130 Treasurer       1315 Fourth Street       Eureka, Ca 9550                                                                                                  https://www.rotary5130.org/district-disaster-response-plan/

Wally Krutz & the 4 Way Test – Published in the HB Tribune – Get a copy from Wally Krutz

World Polio Day – https://www.endpolio.org/world-polio-day  – Share with friends

District Governor Nominee – Past Presidents interested – B Bolster

Call/email them or go to: info@windsorrotary.co 

 Help Wanted:

• Tom Boylan is still looking for scribes.  Thank you Pam for your great work in September, Pegi is doing October & Ken November.  

Our Foundation Chair: Diane Brabetz leads by example; Diane has given a lot to the Rotary Foundation including $5,000.00 to a project conducted by a Rotary Club in Mexico.  Diane said it was an honor to serve as Club Foundation chair and to be a Paul Harris fellow along with men like Jimmy Carter & Jonas Salk.  Diane announced she had the pleasure today of presenting two Paul Harris Fellow awards to two Rotarians, Bill Bolster & Glenda Sales.  Bill Bolster: Paul Harris + 4, having donated a total of $5,000.00 and Glenda Sales: Paul Harris + 8, donating a total of $9,000.00.   Glenda acknowledged Renee Hyde got her started on direct deposit, (monthly automatic deduction to the Rotary Foundation).  Glenda recalled she had asked Renee how much she should donate.  Renee said any amount that is comfortable for you, and suggested maybe what she spent at Starbucks in a month, Glenda said it was easy, it just happens every month, she reminded us that she started a long time ago and it adds up.   Glenda has not been able to attend our Rotary Meetings for a couple of years due to a health condition; she said her contribution to the Rotary Foundation helps her to feel connected to Rotary, and support all that Rotary does. 

Michael Juric gave a presentation on Windsor Rotary Fundraising and Event planning

The engine that powers our Mission to Serve our Community and the World 

($816K to the community over 20 years)

Primary Focus:

• Legacy Programs
• New Programs  
• Dictionaries      
• Food Security    
• Scholarships      
• Robotics    
• Other      

Secondary Focus:

• International Fundraising 
• Polio Fundraising Foundation Fundraising
• Community Fundraising 

Two Groups for Planning:

Steering Committee 

• Co-chaired by the President-Elect and the President Nominee with members at large
• Ensures consistency with our goals
• Ensures continuity
• Recommends budget and approval
• Coordinates with Board
• Historic data over time
• Utilizes are fundraising database

Event Committees 

• Standalone efforts that implement plans and provide feedback to improve club efforts

The team focuses on two methods in 2020 – 2021:

• Major Fundraisers defined as whole club efforts that have goals and potential to warrant that effort.
• Mini/Supplemental Fundraisers 

Opportunities for smaller groups to raise funds

Michael announced we will have a major fundraiser on April 24, 2021.  We will assess in February or March if this fundraiser will be in person or virtual. The committee is looking for some hot ticket items for auction.   

Barbara McChesney is taking the lead on mini/supplemental fundraisers, she is looking for ideas that will inspire & excite folks, possible ideas:                                

• virtual Duck Race
• Mask Contest
• Virtual Wine Tasting

Contact Barbara with ideas or interested in participating in the committee barbsmcc@gmail.com

Barbara McChesney contacted Philip Paskal of Petaluma Sunrise in response to his request for our club to get involved with the Climate Restoration project.  For more information on the project review the following website:   www.foundationforclimaterestoration.org/resourses

Phil Paskal invites you to a scheduled Zoom Meeting on October 24th 7 pm 

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83846862457                              Meeting ID: 838 4686 2457

Opportunity to see environmental videos of urgent importance with time for discussion, comments & questions

For those interested: the next committee meeting will be November 9th. Details coming, Contact: Barbara McChesney barbsmcc@gmail.com

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Rotary Socials with Social Distancing:

Pam Moulton reported the Ladies on Line, attended by 9 ladies, successful & Fun, this social will be repeated on the 3rd Wednesday of the month, Pam will provide additional information. It also sparked the possibility of a limited, in person, wine tasting with Diane Brabetz, more information to come.

John How reported the Poem & Book gathering at his home was also a success, several poems read and Bill Bolster stated he received some education in literature  

Up-Coming Club Stuff:

• Saturday, Oct 24 – District Virtual Conference
• Saturday, Oct 24 – World Polio Day
• Tuesday, Oct 27 – Hayley Bly, Boys & Girls Clubs of Sonoma-Marin
• Thursday, Oct 29 – Boys with Bandwidth
• Tuesday, Nov 3 – David Schreibman, Sebastopol Rotary – Geocaching 
• Thursday, Nov 12 – BINGO Night!!!!
• Nov 12 – 14 – Rotary Big West Zone Institute 
• Saturday, Dec 12 – Windsor Rotary Virtual Christmas Party

VOCATIONAL SERVICE AWARD

KEN MacNab    Town Manager

Awarded for Excellence in Professional Service and Commitment to the Town of Windsor

Doug Williams introduced and presented the vocational service award to Ken, in his introduction Doug stated he admired Ken’s work with the town, his promotion of the concept of honor, and his continuous mission to bring the community together. 

Ken accepted his award stating it was humbling to be selected by an organization that shares the value of community.  Ken stated he and his executive team have exciting projects started, and although due to the covid crisis needing to focus on the present, those projects are still in the works and he is looking forward to the community.  Ken thanked the town council members, his executive team and a Big Thank You to his wife Lori.

Ester Lemus Windsor vice mayor said she was not going to miss this award presentation, she stated from the first interview with Ken she had no doubts about his performance. She exclaimed Ken possesses true leadership, is respected and goes above and beyond for the town.

Debra Fudge council member thanked Ken’s wife Lori, acknowledging all the hours Ken has spent away from her to attend to the Town.  Deb said Ken has done an amazing job since he stepped into the job, he has to lead the town through the fires and pandemic.  

President Bill Bolster thanked the Town members and Ken for running a Great Town.

COVID UP-DATE:             

Here is the latest update on COVID from your Rotary Nurse!

Total Case 9215  (last week 8532) 

New Cases:         Fri 33                Sat 93   Sun 48                 Mon 76

Deaths:  129     (last week 128)

Hospitalized:     23 confirmed and 2 suspected           

There are now 16% of our cases in the 25-34-year-olds and 21% in the 35-44-year-olds (this is a change – seeing more now in this group)

 We have tested a Total of 202,675 and 7404 recovered   (last week 191,326 in our county with 6891 people recovered)   Total negative tests 193,460

 Sonoma County is still on the strictest Tier of Lockdown  (the Purple Tier – this is one time that being purple is not good!!!)    because we have been unable to stop the surge of new cases.  Our Transmission rate of 10.6 new /100,000 of the population does not meet the State guideline of 8% or less in order to move into a less restrictive tier.    Unlike most of the other counties around us, we continue to have a high positivity rate.   Latinos now represent 54% of call COVID cases yet they only comprise 26% of our population.  (500,000 in the county) 

Public Health is recommending a $16 Mil. Health Plan around COVID – vouchers for hotels for positive residents, one time stipends, partnering with businesses to go out and do testing, more outreach to Latino neighborhoods with education and testing to address our numbers.   

 Public Health has issued guidelines for Halloween and Day of the Dead celebration in the hopes that there will not be social gatherings, parties, celebrations, festivals, live audience entertainment, indoor haunted houses, and any unsafe gatherings.

 Again, they are stressing the need for all of us to get our flu shots so we will not have an increase in COVID when the Flu season begins.    

Holiday recommendations are for very strict adherence to not socially having dinners unless you can be outside or keep your parties to only 3 households.    If a family member is traveling to join you for the holidays they need to quarantine for 2 weeks before coming.   In addition, food should not be communal.   Appoint one person with masks and gloves to make up plates and serve.   Do not allow the sharing of pots or plates of food.   Social distance if your dinner is inside and makes the social occasion short in duration.    Remember that just because someone if the family does not meet they are in your “bubble or pod” and you should be having social events.

 Practice the 3 W’s:     Wear your masks, wash your hands, and watch your distance.   Unless we practice these Public Health things, our surge will continue and we will see untimely and increased deaths…………… 

Thanks, Di

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Magic Breakout Rooms!

Michael Juric broke the club into different breakout rooms with 4-5 members in each group with a list of 5 questions the group needed to discuss and answer.

1. How Many presidents have led the club, including Bill?  
2. Name one from the 1980s and 2 from each subsequent decade 
3. Identify four meeting locations we’ve used.
4. Identify 3 members who live outside of Windsor.
5. Who, in your group has the most children?

This was a great segment, I would expect nothing less from Michael he is amazing.  It was an opportunity to see and communicate with a small number of members, my group, as I am sure all groups had fun recalling past years and coming up with different answers.  I believe the only questions that would have exact correct answers was #1 & #3, although Michael said the correct answer to #1, is 31, true to our fabulous club, there was still some friendly debate.  

President Bill thanked the Town members, Ken & Lori, & Paul for visiting.

Closing remark

Thomas Edison was once asked by a reporter how it felt to fail 700 times in the creation of the light bulb. His response: “I have not failed 700 times. I have not failed once. I have succeeded in proving that those 700 ways will not work. When I have eliminated the ways that will not work, I will find the way that will work.”

All people fail, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing.  It is how we learn.  We do not learn from our successes but from our failures.  

If you are not failing, you are not trying (learning)!

So go out and try, fail, learn, adapt, try again……                

And go do something Rotarian!!!

Respectfully submitted,

Pegi Ball