New Members: Getting to Know You!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Merry Christmas to all and to all a Good Night!

DIANE’S COVID UPDATE:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks

Di

WAKE UP TO ROTARY!

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

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

Pledge of Allegiance:      Led by Tom Hassur

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

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

Visiting Rotarians:

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

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

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

Sue Nelson introduced Leo Cacciatore from Circuit Riders.

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

Special Recognition:

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

Program:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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COVID UPDATE

NEWS FLASH:

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

Total Cases:

• 40,106    (last week 39,773)

Recovered:

• 38,593    (last week  38,031)

Active Cases:

• 1115   (last week 1356)

Deaths:

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

New Cases:

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

Hospitalized:

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

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

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

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

Thanks

Di

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Photos

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

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

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

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

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

Club Socials: 

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

Recognitions:   

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

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

“Passport to Success”:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Di

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COVID UPDATE

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks

Di

The Meeting Briefs:

We had our own Kevin Bacon Covid experience last week as one of our members tested positive.  Fortunately it seems to have been a mild case and no other members tested positive.

Our guest speaker for the day, Glaydon de Freitas, took ill last night and had to postpone.

Michael Juric led us in a rousing song of “My club” sung to May Wells “My Guy”.

Bill Conklin shared his Rotary moment about the club passing a hat for donations when his daughter was born.  He has valued the connections he has been able to make with the people in the club.

In appreciation of our club’s support for the schools, the high school is providing season passes to club members and their families to all sports events.  They were passed out at the meeting. Information was not provided on how you might get one if you were either online or didn’t attend.

We grossed $1228 from the bar on our first night of concerts on the green.

Pam Moulton shared a summary of last week’s survey.
Pam Moulton presented Diane Brabetz with our thanks and a pin for going above and beyond in her service to the club members not only for her informative updates on covid but for how she helped organize our response last week when we had a positive case.

Leslie Lewis fined Joan Mora, Chris Landwehr, Karen Ricketts, and Patrick Dunn for their recent travels.

Thanks to this week’s helpers:

• Setup/greeter: Steve Klick
• Scribe: Mike Freedman
• Technology: Michael Juric and JB Leep

Quote for the week: “The Greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members ….” attributed to Coretta Scott King

The Meeting in Detail

First, apologies but the sound over Zoom this week was quite muffled so  its likely I have made mistakes and/or neglected some things.  All mistakes are my fault but not intended.

Ron led us in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Bill Conklin shared his Rotary moment(s).  He talked about how the club passed a hat after his daughter was born to give as a gift to her and of traveling to Nicaragua with others in the club to work a project.   These and other examples expressed his moment(s) of value of the friendships and connections the club has provided.

Announcements were made:

• Sandie Krutz got her final congratulations and thanks as August’s Rotarian of the Month.
• As appreciation for our support the H.S. is providing season passes for all members and their families.
• Patrick Dunn announced our holiday party will be December 10th.
• Renee Hyde announced we had a good opening night grossing $1228 at the “Summer Concerts on the Green” bar.
• Maureen Merrill announced this months birthdays but the poor sound prevented me from getting the names.  Happy birthday to all anyway.  Maureen also mentioned we might start having monthly birthday lunches for those with birthdays in the that month.
• Sue Nelson updated the club on the Service committee’s work.  A $1000 donation to the Greenville Rotary club has been approved for help recovering from recent fires.  The committee has also established a calendar so a beneficiary for our April fundraising can be identified on time.  They are also looking at what Christmas events we might support but are trying to not over extend ourselves.
• Joan Mora provided a summary of last weeks SCARC at Tu Mole Madre.  The mole dishes where wonderful. We had a great turnout with 32 attendees.

Pam Moulton summarized last week’s survey results.  She displayed a long list of top vote getters.  She also highlighted some common themes for future meetings including having small group get togethers, having a hopefully reestablished Interact club lead a meeting, doing a joint meeting with another Rotary club, and meeting with the Holiday Inn staff and residents.  She also summarized a number of new speaker ideas that were submitted including a talk on working with our Chamber of Commerce, a panel discussion with downtown merchants, a discussion about suicide prevention, a talk from someone familiar with the Sonoma County Economic Development organization, a discussion of the causes and remedies of our housing issues, and a historical talk about our local cemeteries.

Our speaker for the day was to be Glaydon de Freitas but he unfortunately took ill a few hours before the meeting and needed to reschedule.  Instead Pam Moutlon and Diane Brabetz led a discussion about our response to having someone in our club test positive last week.  First its a reminder that though most of us a vaccinated, the vaccine doesn’t make one immune from Covid rather it reduces your chances of catching it and reduces the likelihood you will get seriously sick.  However, with the Delta variant, there are many more cases in vaccinated individuals and many vaccinated individuals who test positive can transmit the disease.  So it was a reminder we still need to be careful and cautious and wear our masks, etc.  Diane indicated that Delta infects more quickly than other variants, usually within 3-5 days vs up to 14 days in the past.

In providing an update on the events from last week, Diane talked about calling our public health department and they recommended we consider pausing or dialing back out in person meetings.  In addition that all members as well as Charlie’s staff be notified of a possible exposure and be encouraged to test.  They also recommended that if the meetings continue that in person attendees get tested every 2 weeks.  It was passed along that if you have even a loose affiliation with the Windsor schools that you can get tested at the H.S on the 2 days a week they are testing or at the other schools where they are testing once a week.

Pam finished explaining that at least for the moment we will continue to hold in person meetings but will be prepared to go all online if the circumstances change.  For the time being the Board meetings and most if not all Committee meetings are online only.

When discussion was opened a number of pointed were raised:

1. The club should acquire self antigen tests for those members who volunteer on behalf of the club in situations where they interact with the wider community.  For example, volunteers working the concert bar.
2. Provide more information on resources to our membership.  Where and when testing is available nearby, etc.

After discussing Covid and our protocols for handling positive cases in our membership we got an update about Rotary’s work to eradicate Polio.  There hasn’t been a Polio case since January this year.  And though there are continued worries that we might lose our gains in Afghanistan, the Taliban has indicated they want to encourage polio vaccinations and are even willing to provide security for these efforts.

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COVID UPDATE

NEWS FLASH!!!!   Delta variant breakthroughs surging and unvaccinated adults and children fill hospitals in southern States and States with low vaccination rates.   EU recommends preventing US citizens from travel because of our increase in COVID cases nationwide.

Total Cases:        36,515    (last week 35,562)

Recovered:    33,633    (last week  32,604)

Active Cases: 2529   (last week 2699)

Deaths:                353 of our county citizens  (last week 344)  this is no longer about the frail elders in nursing homes, but there has been a death in the 18-24 age range, 2 in the 25-34, 3 in the 35-44 and 30 people in our County in the 45-54 age range who have died.   Deaths can be prevented – Get vaccinated.   Protect yourself and others……………….

New Cases:            We continue to see an increase in new cases – 851 new cases in just one week in Sonoma County!    Be aware that you can still catch COVID even if you are fully vaccinated so be careful to protect  yourself and  others with good hand washing, wearing your mask indoors as mandated and ensuring you are around others fully vaccinated.   Please also do not take for granted that being outside makes or keeps you safe.   If you are outside and cannot socially distance, wear your mask.    Do not take risks and realize this virus has not gone away and is just looking for an opportunity to strike.

Hospitalized: 70 confirmed and 0 suspected    (last week 81 confirmed and2 suspected)

Vaccination information….  As of August 30th,  659,353  residents in Sonoma County have received the vaccine (last week 649,222).     74% of our populations 12 and older are fully vaccinated and approximately 82% have received at least 1 dose.     With the FDA fully approving Pfizer vaccine and Moderna seeking full approval, we are already seeing large employers as well as government entities mandating the need for vaccinations.

Test regularly if you are attending in person meetings or in an office setting.  Put your masks on indoors but also outdoors when you are in crowded situations and cannot socially distance.  Stay away from others if you have any symptoms and get tested.   Fully vaccinated does not mean you cannot get or give COVID.    Stay safe and be wary………

Thanks

Di

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The bell rang for the last time for President Bill Bolster at 7:30

• Art Diaz led us in the Pledge of Allegiance, a very lively leader.
• Mike Merrill shared that Jimmy Dean was known for more than just sausage when he gave us his quote, “I can’t change the course of the win, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.” 
• Remembering the debunking from last weekend we slipped into a new dimension when Carol Martin and JB Leep gave us a repeat performance of “Meeting Bell Blues.”
• Today’s virtual challenge was met by Michael Juric and JB Leep. The words used to describe the event came from Tom Boylan and the photos are credited to Sue Nelson. 
• The Rotarians of the Month continues to go to Michael Juric and his Best Shot fundraising team.

Pam Moulton’s sister and brother-in-law, Sheila and Doug, came down to cool California to visit with Pam & Ken Moulton. 

Guests of Rotarians included the first recipient of the Ken Moulton Scholarship, Natalie Nava & her father Jorge, along with her teacher Ann Ryan

Michael Juric then gave us some additional insight into Dr. Ken Moulton, whose career in education has taken him to numerous positions of leadership, including Windsor Middle School principal, and founder of Windsor Oaks Academy We then had the opportunity to hear from the good doctor himself.

Ken let us know how grateful he is that we added the Ken Moulton Scholarship as part of our Windsor Rotary Community Foundation. He let us know that this scholarship is given to students that overcome adversity and demonstrate integrity in their lives. Ken let us know that our first recipient, Natalie Nava, is worthy of the award because of her commitment to her education and her community. Natalie’s journey in health services will start this fall at Santa Rosa JC. 

Natalie took the mic and a bouquet of roses then shared her thank you as she told us of her past struggles in life and how this scholarship will open new doors for her and her quest to become an RN. 

Tom Hassur gave an introduction to Rebecca Hernandez our Windsor Rotary Scholarship recipient. 

Tom Hassur took center stage to introduce our other scholarship recipient for 2021, Rebecca Hernandez. Tom let us know that Rebecca also had to overcome life challenges to get to this new opportunity to advance her education. 

Rebecca took us back to the wildfires and the fear she and her family went through as they faced the need to evacuate to Sonoma County Fairgrounds. The reaction to this traumatizing experience was to find a way to grow her knowledge through several programs that accredited her with certificates of skills for working within the community to help others change their outlook on life as well. She closed by reminding us that mental health is important to everyone and she is looking forward to giving back to our community and her new school community at UC Santa Barbara. Her goal is to travel the world educating those who have less opportunity to become educated.

We have a lot of upcoming events. But first… a Fractured Fairytale…

Bill got out of the Navy and went to work in San Francisco where he went to live at his wife’s home. One day while driving he ran out of gas and although he had spare gas in the trunk, he and Joni could not find the gas cap… hidden by the manufacturer of the classic car they were driving. When a passerby stopped to help, even she couldn’t find the gas cap, and after a few minutes of searching the car for the gas cap, she turned to Joni and asked, “Are we on Candid Camera?” 

Mike Freedman gave us a craft talk and let us know that although he was fortunate to be born into a family that was successful, he had a blood disorder that kept him in and out of hospitals, losing a spleen at the age of two for the good of his future.

He attended Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut, where he studied psychology and took a great interest in AI. He went on to find a job that allowed him an opportunity to get his Masters’s Degree and an introduction to his future wife. Hinting that her roots growing up in Hawaii gave her a great opportunity to spend family visits in the Islands. 

Mike’s work kept him in the Silicon Valley where he ventured into many of the tech fields he was interested in. Xerox inspired him to gain more education, which he did. 

Why Rotary? He wanted to have a broader impact on youth and Rotary looks to be a great vehicle. And he added I joined because of our club members.

Although Mike shared that his family is a loud one, he claims to be the quiet man. He shared that he is a person who knows a little about everything, but nothing about some things, except he does know the 1970’s punk side of music with the Clash and the Ramones among many others. He also likes to ride… a bicycle. 

With two homes, one in Windsor and the other in Atherton, he has a choice for which one he spends the winter in and which one is the summer home. Regardless of where he is staying, it sounds like there is a chair in the backyard waiting for you to drop by and have a discussion. Maybe compare some musical notes. 

Maureen Merrill asked Catherine Hanron and Mike Merrill to step forward and receive their official Windsor Rotary Badge. 

Pres Bill gave us an explanation that his efforts over the past year are made better in large part for the efforts of his club members. We saw a list of Rotarian of the Month names, and we reviewed the efforts we made for helping the hungry in our community, introducing candidates for pre-election, our work on the Build Academy, along with our efforts throughout the pandemic generating literally thousands of dollars that went directly to our community. It can be said that we gave this year “Our Best Shot.”

Rotary 2020-21 Year End Awards 

Civic Award 2020-21 – Candidates Forums 

• Maureen Merrill 
• Bill Arnone 

Santa’s Heart 2020-21 

• Sandie Krutz 

Our Youth are Our Future 2020-21 

• Ken Moulton 
• Tom Hassur 
• Daniel Myers 

Our Best Shot 2021 

• Sue Nelson 
• Diane Brabetz 

Involved in Everything 2020-21 

• Heather Cullen 
• Glenn Sugden 

Bean Couter Extraordinaire 2020-21 

• Ed Turner 

Rookie of the Year 2020-21 

• Barbara McChesney for her efforts with the leadership training course and so much more

Rotarian Family of the Year 2020-21 

• Carol Martin 
• JB Leep 

Rotarian of the Year 2020-21 

• Michael Juric was recognized for his ongoing support to the president and he also took home the Rotarian of the Year award

The last award for the day was the awarding of an incoming president pin to Pam Moulton. 

We then had an opportunity to share a standing ovation for the soon-to-be-stepping down President Bill. 

President Bill said, “When you stumble, make it part of the dance!”

Bill Bolster Debunking

MEETING PICTURES

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kurt and wally head shaving

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COVID UPDATE

Total Cases:

• 31,103  this is 195 new cases!  (last week 30,688)

Recovered:

• 30,165    (last week  29,747)

Active Cases:

• 621   (last week 522)

New Cases:

• Fri    33
• Sat    44                                 the problem with the reporting is that the lab is no longer open on weekends and so reporting is difficult
• Sun     0
• Mon    0

This is a total for 4 days of 77  (last week for 4 days was 72)

Deaths:

• 317     (last week 316)

Here in Sonoma County, we have seen over 58% of our deaths in whites, 30% in Hispanics, and 2% in African Americans and American Indians.   53% of deaths occurred in SNF’s and the remaining from community spread.

Hospitalized:

• 20 confirmed and 1 suspected    (last week 11 confirmed and 3 suspected)     Very alarming increase in hospitalizations we are seeing and in the ages of 25-44

The largest number of cases is in those unemployed or not working is at over 21% (probably more non-social distancing and large groups exposed by those who are working), healthcare makes up 9.3%  and Service and sales have dropped to 16% with home care (my industry)continuing at 1.8%.

Today, with our State reopened, there continues to be mask confusion.    Only the fully vaccinated are recommended to safely remove their masks but so many locations of businesses and services are relying on the honor system.   So many continue to wear their masks out in public who are vaccinated.    All businesses have been allowed to resume business at full capacity, including indoor service.   However, health care is exempt, homeless shelters, cooling centers, and schools.  What does it mean for our home care industry?   It does mean that owners, like me, will need to communicate with Public Health to ensure that we continue to keep our clients and workers safe as the virus is still out there.   We also will see businesses unable to reopen at 100% because of a lack of workers.   Most business owners will have to continue with partial reopening because of the inability to staff up.  Personal choice on wearing a mask will continue and each business owner can determine their own rules on wearing of masks or requirements.   We are seeing a few fully vaccinated staff testing positive despite no symptoms.    Does that mean that they are carriers?  Does it mean that these folks who were among the first vaccinated in December already need a booster?    Still no strong answers……………………..

Vaccines were begun….  As of June 28th, 593,808  residents in Sonoma County have received the vaccine (last week 574,631).     66% of our populations 16 and older are fully vaccinated and just under 75% have received at least 1 dose.     County and nation are seeing an increase in people not returning for their 2^nd dose and are having to begin the 2 shot process all over again.  The county is reporting that our daily case rates continue to be high and are increasing.   Most getting sick are unvaccinated and they have more chance of developing the variant.  87% of the new coronavirus cases lately have been among the unvaccinated and that figure rises to 95% in the local Latino population not vaccinated.   How do we negotiate with those unvaccinated to see the need?   I would like us to be able to forego our masks and worry less about travel.   Until we get the unvaccinated convinced that vaccinations are safe and the risk vs. reward is worth it, we will continue to see masks and could even see future lockdowns with the Delta variant out there.

                Please continue to be cautious while you are enjoying our new freedoms of getting out, socializing, and feeling like we can live again.   Remember not all people are vaccinated and unless you know the people you are with have been vaccinated, wear your mask to protect others that may not be.     We want to see this over but still, need to be cautious and very careful.

Thanks

Di

Special Guest – Dustin Littlefield, Rotary Club of Arcata Sunrise, District 5130 Governor 2021-22

President Pam welcomed the Dustin to our Club and asked him to lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Immediate Past President Bill Bolster led us in Tom Petty’s We Won’t Back Down.  Not a highlight for our DG Meeting!

Jim Rupert gave his Rotary moment of growing up in Cloverdale with his father being a very avid Rotarian.  Jim knew that someday he’d be a Rotarian too and has been in our Club for over 15 years and enjoyed every minute of it.  So have we!

Visiting Rotarians (in addition to Dustin Littlefield) – Randy Seelye

Guests – Jamie and Brian Williams, Rodrico Pettus, Jeannie Fournier, and Janet Pavley.  Brian Williams will be joining us as the representative from the WUSD and Jamie Williams will be inducted as our newest member today.

New Member – President Pam brought up our District Governor to induct Jamie Williams as the newest member of the Rotary Club of Windsor.  Jamie is the Athletic Director at Windsor High School and will be a fantastic addition to our club.  Thank you to Renee Hyde for sponsoring Jamie to the club.  Following Jamie’s induction, the Club gathered for our traditional group welcome to our new member.

Rotarian of the Month – President Pam thanked and congratulated Wally Krutz as our Rotarian of the Month for August.

Secret Greeter – Our first secret greeter was Sandie Krutz!  Everyone that didn’t say hello to Sandie was up for a $5 fine.  We’ll keep doing the Secret Greeter for a while so arrive a little early and work the room.  You won’t regret it and you might just save $5!

Calendar and Announcements – President Pam reminded us to watch the pre-meeting slides for upcoming events and Club announcements.

Member Introductions – In keeping with request for more storytelling and to reacquaint with each, the membership introduced themselves along with any current position in the Club and what year they joined.

Guest Speaker – Past District Governor Michael Juric introduced the new District 5130 Governor, Dustin Littlefield from the Rotary Club of Arcata Sunrise.

Following a warm welcome and (Rotary tradition) standing ovation, Dustin thanked the Club and mentioned he wanted to visit us early in his DG year as we are one of the more inspiring clubs in the district!  He emphasized our years of success in reaching out to many clubs locally and internationally and having numerous members take District Leadership roles in the past and future.

Dustin spoke to the Rotary International theme this year, “Serve to Change Lives.”  His District theme is “This is Rotary.”  DG Littlefield will do all he can to help strengthen each club resulting in a stronger District.  When we are asked, “What is Rotary?”, we all have a variation of service and fellowship.  He continued his presentation “What is Rotary? – This is Rotary.”

The DG is encouraged by all the club’s versatility and response in reaching out to their members and the community.  Expanded website communications and virtual fundraisers have kept clubs going and surviving the past year.  Be creative and if one idea doesn’t work, “Throw it over the fence and try something else!”  One of his personal objectives is to create Leadership Pathways for Young Professionals, and sharing the Rotary message throughout the District.

The Governor reminded us that meetings are only one way to share the Rotary experience.  Rotary International has 1.3 million members!  How we all rebound from the year plus of the pandemic will strengthen every single club.  Rotary is in a competitive world, and he encouraged us to reach out to everyone, be creative with technology, and maintain a flexible meeting format for remote access.  We’re all looking to expand our membership and otherwise finding “followers”.  He observed that Rotary could be considered the original “linked in” with the network and impact far reaching.

Lastly he reminded us of the areas of focus with the addition this year of the Environment as our 7^th area of focus.  Everything we do is important to our members, our families, and the people that we serve.  “What is Rotary?  This is Rotary”

Thank You to DG Littlefield – President Pam presented our new flag for the Rotary Club of Windsor to the District Governor and thanked him for his time yesterday and today.

Closing – President Pam thanked everyone that participated to make today’s meeting a success, reminded us that Sonoma County Supervisor James Gore will be here next week, and closed with a quote from Henry Ford, Coming Together is a Beginning – Keeping Together is Progress – Working Together is Success!

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COVID UPDATE

NEWS FLASH!!!!   There continues to be a large increase in new COVID cases and infections are being seen in our young.    You can do something about this………

Total Cases:        32,325     (last week 31,763)

Recovered:    30,827    (last week  30,530)

Active Cases: 1169   (last week 926) – this is 243 more than previous week a trend we do not want to see!

New Cases:            New cases continue to increase at an alarming rate in the unvaccinated but we are seeing it in the vaccinated, especially those with young children who cannot get vaccinated.   We owe it to our young to spare them by getting vaccinations and avoid super spreader events.  Spread is more prevalent as we have relaxed our policies and recommendations and people are going without masks.  The largest group continues to be the 25-44 age …. But it has been reported that a 5 year old died of COVID as well as babies becoming infected because their parents are not vaccinated.

Deaths:  329     (last week 327)

Hospitalized: 42 confirmed and 3 suspected    (last week 44 confirmed and 0 suspected)     Very alarming increase in hospitalizations we are seeing and in the ages of 25-44 – also being reported that the largest percentage of hospitalizations and new cases is in the unvaccinated.  Hospitals are worried about the increase in numbers and the increase wait time in their ER’s due to COVID.    Care is being delayed to people needing emergency care for diagnoses other than COVID which is alarming.

Vaccination information….  As of July 26th,  619,721  residents in Sonoma County have received the vaccine (last week 613,003).     70% of our populations 16 and older are fully vaccinated and approximately 78% have received at least 1 dose.     Because of the hold out among groups and parts of our County that will not consider vaccinations, we are beginning to see employers notify them of deadlines to become vaccinated.   The Governor has issued a mandate for all state government employees and all public and private sectors in health care to become vaccinated beginning August 2^nd and implemented by August 23^rd.  In California we have had a 200% increase in the past 2 weeks of new cases with State wide only 64% fully vaccinated.    This has to change in order to prevent breakthrough but even more importantly to prevent new variants and replication and mutation of the virus.

Please continue to be cautious while you are enjoying our new freedoms of getting out, socializing and feeling like we can live again.   Remember not all people are vaccinated and unless you know the people you are with have been vaccinated, wear your mask to protect others that may not be.   It is being recommended that you wear your mask indoors when you are in stores and crowded places.    Help others to see the value of vaccinations so that we increase our numbers.   We want to see this over but still need to be cautious and very careful.    Just be careful and help to spread the word that our safety and that of those who cannot get vaccinated depends on those who can!!!!!

Thanks

Di

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We kicked off our HYBRID Rotary meeting with a ring of the bell by our new President Pam Moulton. 

There was a pledge of allegiance, but those of us on the ZOOM side of the meeting had to lip sync while the microphone was still trying to connect.

Rotary Moment came from Susan Cole, who informed us that she joined Rotary because she wanted to be a part of the organization that was going to eliminate Polio from the world. Her Rotary moment came on a Festival of Brotherhood visit to Mexico, which she and a group of others from our club attended. On that trip she went on a tour of the local dump in Puerto Vallarta. The poverty and lack of health was rampant. Children and families were there combing through the garbage, including a young girl dressed in a blue dress. That vision became Susan’s Rotary moment and the acknowledgment of never wanting to see another experience she called Children of the Dump.

Guests of Rotarians

Pres Pam introduced Jim Yule, Steve Morris and Gail Ginder, a trio of Ukulele players from her Uke club… they gave us a dose of “Ain’t We Got Fun.”   Ain’t we?

The tech for the day was provided by JB Leep and Michael Juric. Photos were courtesy of Sue Nelson, and the meager words were offered by Tom Boylan. 

Sarah Law director of resource development for Healdsburg schools was introduced by Michael Juric.

We found out there are a lot of horoscopes in the room as everyone present shared their zodiac sign.

Rotarian of the Month

• Pres. Pam let us know that all the backroom workings of our own Wally Krutz to figure out how we can all use DACdb is reason to award him with the first Rotarian of the Month recognition.

Sue Nelson promoted our participation with the Children’s Spree, a program offered by the Healdsburg 20-30 Club and one that gives us an opportunity to shop for kids!

Leah Hansen will be holding a service for her recently deceased daughter this Saturday, 2 PM at St. John’s in Healdsburg next Saturday.

A board meeting is planned for at Ed Turner’s office in the Airport Business Center.

If you would like to have a special photo added to Pam’s pre-meeting slide show, send it along to Pam.

We found out there is a lot of talent on the Windsor Rotary Board when Pres Pam let us know that each of the Board members will have an opportunity to entertain us with what they are going to accomplish in the year ahead. As president, Pam decided to go first and she took us on a “Sentimental Journey” to explain her plans for the year ahead.

Chris Landwher took over the reins and explained what Club Operations are all about. He refrained from singing, but shared there are a lot of moving parts to keep us moving forward. Especially important is the schedule of meeting assignments. You might have thought that Chris was going to be very stoic about his presentation, but in reality, he had a variety of props that he shared from the comfort of his home. Be sure to check the schedule that will be posted on the Club website.

Michael Ragsdale shared the various roles that members will be undertaking to promote our club to the community.

Michael Juric stepped up to explain his role as Club Trainer and Club Facilitator.

Bill Arnone let us know there is a Past President’s Advisory Committee working in the background to assist when needed in a club advisory role. The PP group will not be competing with the Board, but offers a sounding board for things that come up.

Carol Martin introduced us to the Money Bucket, which Ed Turner stepped in to explain how the money needs to go to a specific area, including Rotary International dues and international projects (think of the Rotary Bar on the Town Green as our commitment to international projects). We were told there are two foundations that we focus on. The Windsor Rotary Community Foundation, which provides support to our community, and Rotary Foundation. Understanding the various ways your donation or gift will build dollars to be spent on the areas you choose to support.

Barbara McChesney let us know that Rotary’s concern for the environment should be all our concerns. She let us know that she joined Rotary because of the opportunity to have an impact on the World, which will benefit her children and grandchildren. She gave us a challenge to become plastic free in our world.

Sue Nelson and Susan Cole are the members who will lead the efforts into Service to Local and International Communities. We heard from a youth choir that we have the power to raise people up to more than they can be. Enough said!

Pres Pam reassured us that there was no practice for today’s program. Those responsible were recognized for their support and commitment.

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COVID UPDATE

NEWS FLASH!!!!   We have seen an increase in new cases and in deaths this past week.   The majority of both have been in the unvaccinated……………   this is cause for concern and caution.    With the County now fully open and people socializing, not wearing masks and traveling, there is a very big risk for our unvaccinated population.   Hopefully the request by the vaccine manufacturers to the FDA to fully approve the vaccines rather than the current emergency designation, may sway some of those unvaccinated who are in the “wait and see” mode.

Total Cases:        31,435     (last week 31,160)

Recovered:    30,300    (last week  30,165)

Active Cases:  812   (last week 721 – 91  more cases than previous week)

New Cases: 

Fri    67

Sat    61

the problem with the reporting is that the lab is no longer open on weekends and so reporting is difficult

Sun     0  (110 new cases were reported last Wed!)

Mon    0

This is a total for 4 days of 128  (last week for 4 days was 70) – as alarming as the increase in new cases is, it is also scary that the new cases are largest in the 25-44 age group and in the unvaccinated!

Deaths:  323     (last week 317)       Of the 6 new deaths in our county, 5 were people unvaccinated and the other was a man in his 90’s, fully vaccinated but with underlying health issues!

Hospitalized: 41 confirmed and 0 suspected    (last week 33 confirmed and 1 suspected)     Very alarming increase in hospitalizations we are seeing and in the ages of 25-44 – also being reported that the largest percentage of hospitalizations and new cases is in the unvaccinated.

Vaccination information….  As of July 12th 28th,605,057  residents in Sonoma County have received the vaccine (last week 599,473).     68% of our populations 16 and older are fully vaccinated and approximately 75% have received at least 1 dose.

Please continue to be cautious while you are enjoying our new freedoms of getting out, socializing and feeling like we can live again.   Remember not all people are vaccinated and unless you know the people you are with have been vaccinated, wear your mask to protect others that may not be.    Help others to see the value of vaccinations so that we increase our numbers.   We want to see this over but still need to be cautious and very careful.

Thanks

Di

It is all about the hybrid meeting today… We are live… and on TV.

President Bill Bolster had to bring everyone having fun socializing to a halt with the ring of the bell… there is work to be done with only two meetings left before he hands the reigns over to Incoming president Pam Moulton. 

Good Morning President Bill… your mic is a little difficult to hear so my apologies for missing some of the formalities.

I think Sandy Krutz gave us an opportunity to recite the four-way pledge.

JB Leep sang a song about a rubber ducky and people actually joined in.

Visiting Rotarians included several Davis members, including Don Winters, Don Mills, and another person.

Barbara McChesney introduced our speaker Barry Cogbill with ESRAG, the Environmental Sustainability Rotarian Action Group.  

Tom Hassur introduced one of our $1500 scholarship recipients and it appeared she did a good job relaying her future plans.  Thanks to our slide show I was able to relay the name is Kaitlyn Erickson!

There was a check presentation for the 20-30 Club of Healdsburg Children’s Shopping Spree.  The total was $7245 raised.  Samantha Marshall represented the 20-30 team and thanked the club for its participation. 

Wally Krutz and Kurt Mitchell are going to a barber that works for St. Baldrick’s Foundation. The two of them are due to get their heads shaved so they can donate the follicles to people with cancer. Saturday, June 26th at the Publican in downtown Windsor to catch all the commotion. 

According to Carol Martin, Amazon Smile paid off for those who chose Windsor Rotary as their vehicle for shopping online. We made just under $30, and if you switch your regular Amazon account to an Amazon Smile, every purchase generates money for our Community Foundation. We also heard that Dave Culley’s KC’s Grill on the Town Green makes a donation when you identify yourself as a Rotarian. 

You might take that first night out after the Pandemic watching students of Windsor Middle School perform Pirates of Penzance on June 25th and 26th. Contact Heather Cullen to learn how to get tickets.

Mike Freedman is captive due to concerns for his wife and COVID prevention, but he would like to meet up in his backyard when you have time. mike_freedman@yahoo.com will get you directions to his backyard.

There was a Fractured Fairytale, but I couldn’t hear it, so you have to attend Pre Bill’s debunking this Saturday evening and ask him to tell it again.  

Program

Barbara McChesney was asked to introduce our speaker today, Barry Cogbill with the Environmental Stability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG) gave us the lowdown on what the new area of attention is for Rotary, our environment. 

ESRAG.org  will give you a good look at our new area of focus. District 5130 currently has the largest number of Rotarian Members in the world. We care. The cost to join the group is $30 per year and the information is priceless.  the Environmental Sustainability Rotarian Action Group.  

ESRAG assists Rotary clubs, districts, and multi-district in planning, implementing and evaluating service projects, building awareness, and inspiring action. These projects promote environmental sustainability, awareness of climate change, and actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate disruption on a local and international scale.

Resources & Training to support your Club’s Environmental Activities:

We are actively encouraging clubs to form their own Environmental Sustainability committees.  This is the perfect time to get started as the new Rotary year and the new Area of Focus begin on July 1.  Please click here for an excellent overview of how to get started.

Here is a toolkit specifically designed for projects in the new Area of Focus:

Template for project planning and development

Need help organizing?   If you have an idea for an environmental project/ timeframe, but don’t have the time to make it happen, we have partners who can help you. You can hire Katrina’s nonprofit, Aranya Solutions, to make it happen or put together a sustainability workshop! www.AranyaSolutions.com

Link to the ESRAG presentation

Please encourage your clubmates to join ESRAG.  It’s only $30/yr and provides needed support as Environmental Sustainability takes the main stage starting this July. The membership connects you to more resources, greater community of people passionate about the environment, and larger scale projects. This is your opportunity to leverage Rotary in making a positive impact to Protect the Environment. Share with people, even those outside of Rotary can join ESRAG to make a difference – spread the word! Check out www.ESRAG.org!

MOVIE NIGHT:

The movie presentation for June will be The Science of Climate Restoration, from the 2nd Global Forum on Climate Restoration in September 2020. This month Movie Night is June 26, 2021 from 7:00 to 9:00 pm.

Dr. Erica Dodds, PhD, and the CEO of the Foundation For Climate Restoration (F4CR.org) is coming to speak with us and answer your questions after the Movie! Erica has been an Executive of the Foundation since its inception in 2017; she is particularly committed to actively engaging and empowering youth in climate activism. She believes that the key to success in this amazing task is setting a goal for a proven safe climate.

It is going to be a great conversation!

Register in advance for Movie Night. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

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