Sonoma County Tourism

Rotary Club of Windsor Meeting April 12th, 2022

All hail guest president Bill Arnone!Guests of Rotarians:

Cindy Foreman – Division Chief and Firemarshal for Sonoma County Fire Dept 

Kate Smith- Youth Ambassador heading to Japan

Rotarian of the Month for April – Doug Williams.Announcements:

• Sue Nelson presents the $7000 fundraising for a Demonstration Fire Safety Garden to Cindy Foreman. Garden will be on the corner of Old Redwood Highway and Hembree Lane. It will be an example of what residents should look to do for their own yards to promote native species, low water usage and fire safety. There will be a ground-breaking so stay tuned for that!
• Bill Bolster demonstrated with Wally and Kurt to the First Choices project to engage students and encourage them to go into further education to better their prospects for the future.
• Sandie is looking for home hosts for our incoming Youth Exchange students – August – November

Fines:

• Maureen Merrill birthday fine

Bill & Kurt’s Excellent Adventures:

Highest Fundraiser Net in the last 7 years. 3rd highest gross, low overheads really helped boost the club.

Leah and Maureen did a great job for sponsorships

Tom Boylan for support with logos and advertising

Sandie and Catherine on the auction site

Pegi’s amazing work with the charcuterie

Barbara McChesney for the auction lots

Susan Cole for videos and great writeups

JB, John Nelson, Dev for the livestream work on the day

Carol for herding cats throughout!Guest speaker for today, Johnny Westom, Vice President, Business Development, Sonoma County Tourism.  Jonny has been a senior executive at various organizations in other locations: Dana Point, Sonoma Valley, and Palm Springs. – Sonoma County – Life Opens Up

Works in destination management tourism and for Sonoma – sustainable tourism. Sonoma County Tourism is a non-profit organization to help the growth of tourism in the county without adversely affecting

The ToT tax – Transient Occupancy Tax is a tax on hotel stays and is the primary way that many services in the county are funded including Sonoma County Tourism. Sonoma County Tourism was the first multi-jurisdictional endeavour to attempt this. The County has a broad variety of attractions with Redwoods, Wine and Coast. SCT is here to promote these attractions without overloading what the county can support. 1 in 10 jobs are Tourism-related. $112M in tax revenue.

Visitors to Sonoma County are more than 50% day visitors with a $59/person spend by day visitors this goes up to $165 for overnight visitors. The impact of the pandemic was significant, although many urban areas were much worse hit. 

Hotel occupancy has already bounced back to almost pre-pandemic levels which is great news. It’s still low but recovering!

Top Feeder States are California, New York, Texas, Florida and Arizona – this tracks with the Wine Club membership rates in the county.Final quote of the day: It’s last day to vote!

Thank you to:

Set-up: Kurt Mitchler

Greeter: John How

Song: Bill Bolster

Scribe: Dev Sodagar

A/V set-up: Mitch Grandi

Zoom team: Michael Juric

Miyagi, Japan 1951

Rotary Club of Windsor Meeting April 5, 2022

President Pam rang the bell and Mia Kaufman, visiting student of the month, led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Susan Cole led the group in a rousing Happy Birthday to President Pam.

Rotarian of the month for April, Doug Williams shared a very moving Rotary moment.  He is still somewhat of a newcomer given the Rotary ages of many members.  He sees his moment a little like the spokes on a wheel, lots of moments coming together.  He appreciates the opportunities he has had to meet students from other countries, grow new friendships, and build community.  Doug treasures most the support and encouragement he has received since his unexpected diagnosis one year ago.  This has been beyond belief and his most valued “Rotary Moment”.

Visiting Rotarians:
Dr. Curt Groninga- Rotary Club of Ukraine

Guests of Rotarians:
David Doht-new member candidate (husband of Barbara McChesney)
Alan and Margaret Butler- also guest speaker
Barney and Michele Kaufman and daughter Mia
Kate Smith- Youth Ambassador heading to Japan
Marie Gannister-Windsor High School Instructor and Vineyard Academy Coordinator

Rotarian of the Month for April Doug Williams.

Announcements:

• Leslie given pin by President Pam for role as guest president last month.
• Reminder to send Senator Mike McGuire thank you notes for his role in fundraiser: 50 D Street Suite #120A, Santa Rosa, CA 95404
• Town of Windsor Earth Day Clean up Sunday April 24^th 1-3pm.  Club members joining with Windsor Middle School Eco club. Contact Barbara for more information or go online to Eventbrite.com to sign up.
• Passport to Success meetings immediately following club meetings in separate room for the next several weeks.
• Scholarship meeting immediately following club meeting.
• Wally presented ‘Want Ads’ now available through DACdb.  If you need help with a project or want to find out where you can get a club job, check the want ads in DACdb.  There are many needs.
• Kathy Williams announced needs for Windsor Day parade.  They are: help completing the application members to sign up to provide traffic support, holding Rotary balloon, and walking in parade.
• District Conference coming in May: use invitation sent directly to you to sign up. Our club will have a decorated suite with drinks etc. for attendees.
• District Training Assembly was well attended by our club.  13 members, more than any other club. 7 participated as either trainers or Sgt. At Arms.  Club attendees set goals: Foster relationships with other organizations including Rotary Clubs, and Community calendar; 120% participation from members; Spectacular 35^thanniversary party; and have more socials.
• Next club social is April 15^th at 6pm.  Meet at Artisan Alley in Windsor.
• Domingo gave Pam her first birthday gift for this year.
• John Hackenburg presented dandelion jelly from recent trip to Midwest (reminder of his own mother making jelly and wine from dandelions when he was a child) and ukele earrings from Nashville.

Fines:

• Pam- $100 for birthday.
• John How- $25 for his love affair.
• Michael Juric-$50 for his 8 grandchildren.
• David Doht-$25. . . just because.
• Michael Raasch-$75 for upcoming participation in Gran Fondo

Student of the Month:
Daniel Myers introduced Marie Ganister who then introduced Mia Kaufman the current student of the month who Marie has known since she was born.  Mia represents the Vineyard Academy.  Teachers report that Mia demonstrates a level of excellence needed to positively go out in the world. Mia consistently shows up and did throughout the pandemic. She is intelligent, a pleasure to teach, and a highly focused student who demonstrates great support and encouragement to peers.  Mia was very honored and spoke very highly of her Vineyard Academy family, her parents, and to Rotary for this honor.  Mia is heading first to Santa Barbara Jr. College and then off to University of Santa Barbara where she plans to study to be a veterinarian.

Guest speaker for today, Alan Butler was introduced by Sue Nelson. Though now retired, Alan had a long career as an architect with the Santa Rosa firm: TLCD Architecture. He shared an intriguing story about photographs taken by his father George Butler in Japan in 1950-51 and the unique history of the coastal region encompassed by the photographs. Alan found about 2,000 photos following his father’s death and created a book and display for the people of Japan.  The area where many of the photos were taken was ravaged by a tsunami in 2011.  The images of both scenery and people are touching and beautiful. It was quite emotional for people and family members of those photographed to see for the first time and so many years later. Alan’s tale included descriptions of his own recent trips to Japan and the significance of these very special photographs.  Alan and Margaret were treated like celebrities.  He was honored to share his father’s photographs and described the culture as one that really looks out for each other, for society, and very respectful of the landscape. They were very effective during the pandemic because they help and protect one another.  It was a very moving presentation. Please check this website to see the photos and learn more:
www.miyagi1951.com
ambutler@sonic.net

Reminder for next week: Bill Arnone will be guest president.

Final quote of the day: On a team, it’s not the strength of the individual players, but it is the strength of the unit and how they all function together.
Thank you to:
Set up: Steve Klick and team
Greeter: Kathryn Williams
Song: Susan Cole
Scribe: Barbara McChesney
AV set up: John Hackenburg
Zoom team: Brian Ling

Update on Ukraine by Dr. Curt Groninga

Good Day, fellow Rotarians and friends and family who are reading our weekly bulletin. Today’s minutes are from TUESDAY, March 22, 2022.

Pledge of Allegiance lead by visiting Past District Governor Doug Johnson.

INSPIRATION: Rotary’s 4 Way Test. The Four-Way Test of the things we think, say or do is a test used by Rotarians world-wide as a moral code for personal and business relationships. The test can be applied to almost any aspect of life, A Guiding Post.

SONG: Heather was unable to attend this morning and lead us in song, but it is JB’s Birthday so we blessed him with a roaring rendition of HAPPY BIRTHDAY.

VISITING ROTARIANS: Sandie Krutz introduced Past District Governor Doug Johnson from the Rotary Club of Santa Rosa

GUESTS OF ROTARIANS: Sue Nelson introduced Curt Groninga, Bill Turner, & her husband, John Nelson
Barbara McChesney introduced her husband, David Doht.

Rotarian of the Month: Dev Sodagar. Dev has been very busy behind the scenes preparing for our SPARK SUCCESS! fundraiser this Saturday. Thank you, Dev!

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

• Bill Bolster attended Salvation Army’s award banquet March 17, (with green hair) and received an award for the Rotary Club of Windsor for collecting over $1,100.00 ringing the Bell in December. I believe Bill said we collect the third highest amount!  
• Bill also announced there will be a Choices Program at the Windsor Middle School in April; this program is aimed at keeping kids in school. Bill will provide more details, Please contact Bill if interested in participating.
• Renee Hyde has created a Passport to Success as a means for new members to get to know other members and learn more about our club and Rotary Service. Renee has set up a schedule of quick “after the meeting” meetings new or existing members can attend to learn about each area of Rotary in the passport. Meetings start in April and will posted at our regular Rotary meetings.

Role	Person/People	Q2 2022	Q3 2022	Q4 2022
President	Pam Moulton	4/5	7/05	10/4
Club Communications	Wally Krutz	4/12	7/12	10/11
WRCF	Brian Ling	4/19	7/19	10/18
The Rotary Foundation	Diane Brabetz	4/26	7/26	10/25
Treasurer	Ed Turner / Carol Martin	5/3	8/2	11/1
Club Operations	Chris Landwehr	5/10	8/9	11/8
Youth Services	Pegi Ball	5/17	8/16	11/15
International Service	Sue Nelson / Susan Cole	5/24	8/23	11/29
Community Service	Sue Nelson / Susan Cole	5/31	8/30	11/29
Service Grants	Sandi Krutz	6/7	9/6	12/6
Recognition	Doug Williams	6/14	9/13	12/13
Club Culture	Leslie Lewis	6/21	9/20	Dark
Membership	Renee Hyde	6/28	9/27	Dark

• Wally Krutz (History Buff) has gathered boxes of documents belonging to the Rotary Club of Windsor and is looking of volunteers to help sort through the boxes and create a History book on the Rotary Club of Windsor and Windsor. windsorrotaryclubhistorians@dacdb.com
• May 7, 2022 Windsor Parade: This has always been a fun event Rotarians have participated in, balancing the Rotary cold balloon as we walked the parade route. With the end of the pandemic, Windsor is wanting to make this a special event. Rotarians needed. Windsorrotary/parade@dacdb.com
• Catherine Hanron needs some folks to man the pickup for silent auction items, March 28 & 29. There is promise of donuts in the AM and wine in the PM, contact Catherine: helldiver@comcast.net

SPEAKER:
Sue Nelson introduced our speakers:

Doug Johnson a member of the Rotary Club of Santa Rosa and Past District Governor.
Dr. Curt Groninga, a resident of Santa Rosa, retired administrator of SRJC. Curt was involved in many landmark facility development projects such as SRJC Petaluma Campus, the Public Safety Training Center in Windsor as well major improvements on the SRJC’s Santa Rosa Campus. Curt and his wife Vicki have traveled extensively around the world, achieving a broad understanding of both political and human conditions. Perhaps no place or people have impacted him more than Ukraine. Curt has traveled to Cherkassy and has hosted visits from Ukrainian citizens who have traveled here over the last 15 years.

Dr. Curt started his presentation stating that he soon will be 77 and remembers the air-raid drills in school, hiding under the desk at the sound of the siren, and stated this is a reality for the students in Ukraine.  
Santa Rosa and Cherkassy became sister cities 1990 and an exchange between colleges was established. Dr Curt and Bill Turner traveled to Cherkasy in 1998, finding it to be more like what we knew in the 1950’s, and substandard living.  The architecture and living had developed since that first visit.
Bill Turner’s host family the Lashchenko Family, both Doctors with two daughters, the girls interpreted for them while in Ukraine.

Dr Lashchenko is a charter member of the Cherkasy Rotary Club and very active in supporting the Ukraine people. He went to Chernobyl at the time of the melt down with nothing more than the equivalent of a N-95 mask. Many of the rescue team that aided in the Chernobyl disaster have since died of cancer.
Children were still swimming in the waters contaminated by Chernobyl and being diagnosed with cancer.

The Lashchenko’s established a medical center for those suffering from Cancer and TB.
Dr Curt’s presentation was filled with the relationships and love that had been created with the people of Ukraine, how the Rotary Clubs there (35 in Ukraine) have worked to assist the Ukrainian people and how this war has created a moral and very difficult decision for Doctors in Ukraine.

A Rotary Club in Germany has taken over funding for the Rotary Club of Cherkasy and continues their efforts.

The Lashchenko’s remained at the hospital in Ukraine until the bombing included medical facilities and were no longer safe. Dr. Natasha Laschenko’s health also required her to go to Poland to receive medication. The children were moved to Poland, however, difficult to resume needed treatments. The Laschenko’s daughters are safe here in the US, however, when asked if they thought their parents would join them here, they replied no, they did not think they would leave the people.

Medication and medical supplies are urgently needed. The best way for us to help is to donate to the Rotary
International Foundation.

Closing remark: War does not determine who is right – only who is left.

Latest COVID News from your Rotary Nurse, Diane Brabetz…. 03/22/22

COVID UPDATE:  HIGH RISK COVID -19 PATIENTS MAY NOW HAVE NEW TREATMENTS AVAILABLE FOR HOME USE!  These anti-viral medications can prevent people with health risks from getting sicker and filling up our hospitals if there is another surge. FDA has authorized the use of Pfizer’s Paxlovid tablets or Merck’s Molnupiravir capsules for use within 5 days of developing symptoms.
 
Total Cases: 83,396 (last week 83,110) Recovered: 81,871 (last week 81,224) Active Cases: 1041 (last week 1405)

Deaths: 484  (last week 481)

New Cases: 83,396 total cases as of March 20, 2022 in Sonoma County!

Hospitalized: 15 confirmed and 3 ICU cases (last week 15 confirmed and 3 ICU cases)  

Vaccination information: As of March 20th, 2022, 1,013,260 doses of vaccination have been given to residents in Sonoma County. (last week 1,010,788). 81% of our population 5 years and older are fully vaccinated and 7% have had at least one (1) dose.
MASKS: Since our mask mandate was rescinded for the general population (health care personnel and settings are still required), employers and establishments can still require the use of masks inside.  Please check before entering a building to see what is posted and always have a mask handy.  If you have symptoms, please mask up!  If you are going to be visiting or staying with someone who is immune-compromised, use a mask please. Testing is still required for those not fully vaccinated or boosted to ensure we do not have an increase in spread here in our County.

If you are traveling, masks continue to be a deterrent to the spread of COVID-19.  They are suggested where case rates are high or there are outbreaks occurring.  They are also suggested still in crowded, poorly ventilated spaces and for protection around those who are vulnerable and for young children who are not yet eligible for vaccinations. When wearing a mask, ensure that it is tight fitting such as a N95, KN95, or use a cloth mask over a surgical mask. Please be respectful of other’s who still choose to wear a mask whether it is mandated or no.

Vaccine sites are still open and offering vaccinations and boosters.  We continue to encourage everyone eligible for the booster, to get one.  We have seen the proof that this prevents disease and hospitalizations and those who still breakthrough have minor symptoms.  As a health care professional, I am optimistically positive that we have turned the corner, but we could encounter another variant, another outbreak and be asked to mask once again for everyone’s safety.  Enjoy our relaxation of mandates, but keep others safe please.

At Home Nursing, my Agency is still available to provide you COVID testing if you need it (PCR), FIT testing for a N95 mask so that it fits properly or answer any questions you may have.  Call our office at 707-546-8773.  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.

St. Patrick’s Day Festivities Plus Craft Talks

Scribe Notes by Monica McCabe.

Robin Resendez was our Greeter today!

Mackenzie Rose Gay, a student from Windsor High School, led us in the pledge of allegiance.

Bill Arnone led us in song, a lovely rendition of “When Irish Eyes are Smiling.”

Renee Hyde had a special announcement for Spark Success, our Rotary Fundraiser which is quickly approaching!  Please be sure

• -to sign up for the Auction
• -forward the sign up to a friend who might like to participate
• -begin bidding on the online items! 
• -make a plan for the evening of the auction!  There are several watch parties planned and members can join, or make their own!  Maureen and Mike Merrill are hosting a party at Mutt Lynch Winery and Bellacana Vineyards in downtown Windsor, and there are view parties at the Conklins, the Hansens, and the Hydes!  Please be sure to RSVP if you are going to join one! Maureen will send an email regarding the view parties.  

Pam left a paper bag of goodies on each table – each one containing some of the gifts she has received from her traveling supporters!  Each bag had a price tag, and members were encouraged to purchase the bags -sight unseen!  Most were gone by the end of the meeting!

Rotary Moment:  Sandie Kurtz gave a great summary of the development of the Rotary Wheel which developed from a simple wagon wheel, then one that was kicking up dust, to a wheel of spokes and cogs, and finally the modern wheel has a keyway – symbolizing the “real worker” that is each Rotary member.
Our guests today were the Gay family:  Daniel Myers introduced us to  Mackenzie Rose Gay, her dad, Michael and sister, Mikayla.  

Also joining them was Mackenzie’s teacher David Beale.  Mackenzie is the Nueva Student of the Year, and our student of the month.  She is a budding actress/director/producer/prop steward and stage manager.  Nueva School for the Arts Core is a way for students to learn English and History through the production of plays from start to finish.  Mackenzie is a bright and shiny star, and is clearly set to go far in the future.  Congratulations!!

Rotarian of the Month: Dev Sodager has jumped into Rotary with two feet.  Thank you, Dev. 
Announcements: 
Nation’s Finest is hosting a Game of Throws (corn hole) on March 26^th – 11:00 am- 3:00 pm.  It is the  same day as our fundraiser – on the green.  Check details and registration at Nationsfinest.org.
Carol Martin and Ed Turner announced the launch of Skippy 2 which can help take our money easier than ever.

Ed Turner had the incredible news that Carl Lewis bequeathed to the Club’s endowment fund an amazing gift of $865,848! This brings our total base to $1,500,000.  Only the interest is used for projects – but that is a significant amount of interest.  Carl’s gift is one we will never forget. 

Pegi reminded everyone there are still some charcuterie boards for $75.00 each to nibble on the night of the Fund raiser!  Check windsorrotary.org website and click on Spark Success.

Michael Juric shared the joyous news of his grandson’s birth; welcome future Rotarian Everett Michael Juric!

District Assembly is the evening of April 1 – April 2 in Ukiah.  Registration is on line.
Thank you to Past President Leslie Lewis for being the President of the Day March 8^th! 

Barbara McChesney bestowed upon Pam a bounty of gifts from her recent travels which included visiting 10 national parks, Native American nations, a UFO campsite and a civil rights museum. 
Craft Talks:
                Dev Sodager shared his hobby of painting teeny tiny figurines.  He and his wife brought their pup, Tillie, home from England on the Queen Mary II!  He joined Rotary to immerse himself in the community, and he certainly is doing that!
                Kathy Williams (aka Brian’s mom) retired from a busy career in social service,  including a CPS Supervisor and Trainer.  She cared for her Mom in Oregon, for 12 years and then moved to be closer to Brian and his family, helping to raise his girls.  She enjoys travel, Silver Sneakers and Water Aerobics among other activities. 
                Larry McCabe has spent his career in medical instrumentation, and mostly in ultrasound.  His particular talent is acting as the go between engineers and marketing.  He has traveled to Europe and China for work, forging friendships and work relations with good people in each country he visited.  He is very proud that his work in ultrasound has benefited each member of his family.
                Monica McCabe taught preschool for a parent cooperative in Sunnyvale which emphasized play based learning, parent education and the value of getting to know people from other cultures and backgrounds. 

Next week: Jose Guillian and Curt Groninga are going to present information on the Cherkassy Region of Ukraine. 

May your blessings outnumber the shamrocks that grow, and may trouble avoid you wherever you go!

Treason – The Law in the USA

HAPPY MARDI GRAS EVERYONE!!!

Or as us Brits would say – Happy Pancake day!

If you’d like to celebrate with pancakes – here is a British style recipe to try. – https://www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes/pancakebatter_13556 You probably even have all the ingredients already!

Pledge of Allegiance: Brian Ling

Song: When the Saints come Marching Home – thanks to Joan for providing and to El Presidenté for some delightful percussion accompaniment.

Guests :

• Aldenee Suomala – Student of the Year and her family and teacher – Paul Jolly
• Past member Dennis Wilkinson
• Exchange Student Domingo in the house!

Rotary Moment:

John HEWKO

General Secretary and CEO of Rotary international and the Rotary Foundation is from Kiev, Ukraine   and Charter member of the Kiev Rotary Club Part of a group that pre-pared the draft for the post-Soviet Constitution

PAUSE for PEACE!!

Rotarian of the Month is… well it’s me (Dev Sodagar) apparently! Many thanks to Pam for all the lovely things you had to say about me and my work to date and a huge, huge thanks to everyone in the club for making me feel so welcome.

Announcements:

• Bill announce for Kate going to Japan! and Rebecca going to Sweden!
• Domingo – HANDY MAN looking for work so I you have something that needs doing – reach out to him.
• Still accepting items on Silent Auction!
• Children’s Dictionaries for Brooks and Cali Calmecac – Delivered!

Gifts for El Presidenté get’s it’s own section this week:

• JB and Carol – back from Savannah! Candied Praline Pecans for El Presidente – AND a Polio-free pen for John Hackenberg!
• Hawaii trip with coffee honey syrup for El Presidente
• Diane – Mexico trip – Tshirt and hot sauce, mug and cup
• Domingo’s mother sends our President a book on the history of Rotary!

Student of the Month in Humanities:  – Aldenee Somali

Introduced by Daniel Myers

Paul Jolly really gave us an understanding of how Aldenee is not just an excellent student but one who really embraces the elements of the four-way test.

Aldenee reminded us that Humanities is about the connections that we for. After the separation of Covid – it’s more important than ever. Collaboration, relationships and group activities are all a big part of Humanities. Humanities will be ending and that’s a huge loss to future students

Aldenee will be going to JC and taking those two years to really identify what she wants to do for her future.

Paul Harris Fellowship Awards:

John Hackenburg presented

Congratulations to Steve, JB, Carol for reaching Paul Harris +1

and Wally for reaching Paul Harris +5

Windsor Rotary will match (in $100 increments) your Paul Harris contributions in points for the first $500! So get those donations in!
 

LAW of Treason:

Carlton Larson spoke to us on his latest book:

A leading authority on the Law of Treason in the US and author of several books on the subject.

What constitutes Treason really came to the forefront of public conscious in 2016 as members of the Press started asking about the implications of many actions by the sitting president. With thought to this Carlton Larson set about writing On Treason – A Citizen’s Guide to the Law.

US Constitution Article 3, Section 3 is the section that speaks to Treason against the United States. This is a very limited definition of Treason with a high bar to meet.

January 6th may meet this on the basis of the Whisky Rebellion but later decisions take a narrower view that levying War cannot be against a single Law but the government overall. With the instigation being one branch against another, the need for two witnesses and the lack of consideration for other forms of evidence such as video. It means a charge could be interpreted either way.

Despite the narrowness of the definition of ‘Treason’ there are other charges, such as espionage, conspiracy and sedition, that may well be met.

Hipolito Salazar – During the Mexican – American war of the 1840s. Modern New Mexico was invaded by the United States. Residents of the occupied region were declared to be US Citizens (although this was later overturned). He was tried for Treason as a US Citizen and executed making him the only person to be executed for the federal charge of Treason.

Congratulations to Rotarian of the Month!!

• Set-up: Daniel
• Greeter: Mike
• Song/dance: Joan
• Scribe: Dev
• A/V set-up: Brian & Brian, JB & Mitch
• Zoom team: JB / Brian Ling

REMINDER   March 8th

President for the day is LESLIE LEWIS

Quote:

“Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.”

COVID UPDATE FROM DIANE BRABETZ:

Current COVID update (3/1/22) from your Rotary nurse, Diane Brabetz. We have returned from our trip to Mexico and in this will share with you some of my observations there around COVID.

COVID UPDATE:    MANDATES ON MASK WEARING HAVE EXPIRED AND THERE IS CAUTIOUS OPTIMISM THAT WE ARE ON THE DOWNWARD SIDE OF COVID HERE IN SONOMA COUNTY!

Total Cases:    82,449 (last reported 76,585)           
Recovered:       78,200 (last reported 53,243)             
Active Cases:     3775 (last reported week 22,897)        
Deaths:              449 (last reported 445)
New Cases:       661 cases this past week (last reported 5187) 
Hospitalized:      32 confirmed and 2 suspected (last reported 94 confirmed and 0 suspected)      

Vaccination information….  As of February 27th, 2022 – 1,006,076  doses of vaccination have been given to residents in Sonoma County (last reported 981,683). 80% of our population 5 years and older are fully vaccinated and 7% have had at least one (1) dose.

MASKS:      Dr. Sundari Mase, Sonoma County’s Public Health Officer rescinded the mask mandate on February 16th for all fully vaccinated individuals.  Unvaccinated individuals over age 2 will continue to be required to wear masks in all indoor public settings.  Businesses,venue operators and hosts may determine their own paths forward to protect staff and patrons and may choose to require all patrons to wear masks.  Indoor masking is still required by the State for everyone, regardless of vaccination status in public transportation, health care settings, congregate settings (like correctional facilities and homeless shelters), long-term care facilities and in all K-12 schools and childcare settings.
Masks continue to be a deterrent to the spread of COVID-19 and are suggested where case rates are high or there are outbreaks occurring.   They are also suggested still in crowded, poorly ventilated spaces and for protection around those who are vulnerable and for young children who are not yet eligible for vaccinations.  When wearing a mask, ensure that it is tight fitting such as a N95, KN95, or use a cloth mask over a surgical mask. People can continue to choose to wear a mask whether it is mandated or not and we should respect other’s feelings.

We recently returned from a trip to Mexico and found that they are still fighting huge numbers of new cases, people dying and lack of supplies, PPE and treatment.   Be aware of where you travel, what is going on there and keep others safe when you do.   We were required to show proof a negative PCR test no more than 24 hours before our departure – we found it odd that there was no requirement for our flight there but coming back into the USA, we did have to have a negative COVID test.  There we also found every establishment we went into was checking temps, only allowed one entrance and one exit and was giving out hand sanitizer and / or masks.    Indoor dining was allowed but the restaurants spread us out as much as they could.   All in all we were impressed with their attempts to keep people safe and education was rampant on billboards and throughout the areaGet your booster if you are eligible!  It is highly recommended to give your immune system a boost.  Also get your Flu vaccine as we do not want citizens coming down with the flu.   This not only compromises their immune systems but can also weaken their lungs.   As a health care professional, I am optimistically positive that we have turned the corner, but we could encounter another variant, another outbreak and be asked to mask once again for everyone’s safety.    Enjoy our relaxation of mandates but keep others safe please.

Please know that I am always available to answer questions, help with scheduling appointment, providing a test or even FIT testing you for a N95 mask so that it fits properly.  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.   Do not hesitate to contact me OR my staff at my office (At Home Nursing) at 546-8773 if you need to be tested – we would be happy to test you.   We are also available to FIT test you for an M95 mask and can sell those to you.   

Behind the Iron Curtain

President Pam Moulton did the ring thing around 7:30, and Michael Ragsdale led us in the Pledge. From that smooth intro we were introduced to Bill Bolster and his version of “Sing us a song, you’re the Piano Lady… “

Rotarian guests included George Dutton and Larry Mills.

Guests of Rotarians included our speaker Keith Davis. Rene Hyde introduced her house guest Domingo.

Barbara McChesney filled us in on her Rotary Moment. She said the journey started two plus years ago when she and her husband were on a trip to Africa. The work we did there was the inspiration for her being here today, and well into the future. She added her international connection gave her inspiration and most important, her connection with Club members keeps her involved.

Announcements:

Joan Mora came to us from the online world… What’s Up? She said.

Pegi Ball let us know the Dictionary Program is underway. She has a lot of dictionaries ready to be distributed. Chris Landwher will get the books to the school on March 2nd, but we need a volunteer to help distribute them to every third grader in Windsor. Let Pegi know if you can have some fun and join the giveaway.

Youth Exchange is on and rolling back to the past, which is a step forward for going forward and off to the world. We are sending two students in an effort to make up for lost time.

Sandie Krutz is delighted to actually see our faces… she is also happy to talk with Alison Huber via phone. She reached out to ask her how she is doing, and she is doing well.

Domingo is looking for part time chore style projects. If you have something to do around the home or business and would rather not be the one doing it, ask Domingo.

Kurt Michler let us know we still have a need for more silent auction items. Get in touch with Catherine Hanron and let her know if you have a new patio umbrella that you didn’t return in time, or anything else with some value for others.

Bill Conklin let us know that those of us who don’t have social plans for our fundraiser event, should start to invite others to gather as a group for auction event.

Wine donations go to Jo Timmsen, and don’t forget to register for the auction … and get others to register.

President Pam gave us all the update on the latest board meeting.

If you have an item for the website, send it along to JB Leep, our esteemed web master.

Bill Bolster let us know who will be the President Elect Nominee. Barbara McChesney left the room for us to vote that she will be the president for year 2024-2025. Round of applause goes here.

Painted pianos are all around town… well actually according to Heather Cullen, they have all been auctioned off, but we expect to see more as they continue to find more in need of a paint job. So far they have had 60 pianos donated. If you have a piano to donate, let Heather know. They will provide the paint job, and a little piano music as well. Look for the big auction to happen in September!

Program:

Pres. Pam introduced George Dutton with Healdsburg Sunrise who then introduced us to Keith Davis as our guest speaker. Keith is a San Francisco native who moved to Santa Rosa with his family at an early age. He has had a long career as a consultant for transportation and a world traveler whose experiences included spending time in Berlin, back when the “wall” was still intact.

Keith went to the University of Berlin on the GI Bill. He became fluent in German, eventually he came back to the States and went to work at Hunter’s Point at the Naval shipyard.
Keith was recruited to carry messages into East Berlin to aid people looking for passage out of the Eastern Block. He gave us a story of intrigue and spying, mixed with some blues.

Interesting travels and an introduction to a 1958 Volkswagen with a hand crank sunroof. Keith shared a variety of pieces that we could get a glimpse of his time in Europe. In his adventures he became more than familiar with what living under totalitarianism could be like. The trickery used to establish who was pro regime, versus those that were being exposed to the West, became a way to ostracize those that were not conformists.

Keith ended the discussion with a story of Russian tanks surrounding his room in Czechoslovakia and that concludes today’s meeting. Or so we thought, he went on to explain that his escape was…
 
President Pam let us know what moved her about our day’s topic:

“To this day, I attempt to walk through walls, real and imagined, external and internal. Sometimes in the midst of stress, insanity, wannabe dictators, wars, cruelty, injustice, greed, quarantines, pandemic viruses, I think back to those days along these roads.
In my mind, I have never stopped walking.”

Kevin James Shay, Walking through the Wall?

Back at Charlie’s President Quiz

Good Day fellow Rotarians and friends and family who are reading our weekly bulletin.  Today’s minutes are from TUESDAY, February 15, 2022.

President Pam rang the bell @7:30 and welcomed everyone back. Great to be together again,
Pledge of Allegiance:  Susan Cole

INSPIRATION:  President Pam Moulton
   This is my moment to say, in person, Thank you for all that you have given me in the last few months – but most significantly in the last couple of weeks.  The strength of support, kindness, generosity, cards, flowers, visits, meals, and as many offers to do all of that, but I have asked to postpone.  This, at times indescribable feeling of being part of something greater than myself, has been so comforting and healing! You have allowed me to live through and with so many Rotary Moments – and I know there are many more to come!
For this I am so thankful!

SONG: Heather Cullen led us in the Beatles’ “All You Need is Love” 

NO Visiting Rotarians

GUESTS OF ROTARIANS:  Tom Boylan introduced Jeff Cave, (finally in person)     Daniel Myers introduced our Student of Year; Jaycie Levar and her parents; Carie & Jay Levar and Jeff Vincent, Windsor High School Teacher

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

SPARK SUCCESS:  March 26, 2022 Virtual Fundraiser    
Kurt Mitchler encouraged everyone to Register & Invite!
https://windsorrotary.ejoinme.org/spark-registration

Catherine can use more silent auction items, helldiver@comcast.net
Jo Timmsen thanks everyone that brought wine this morning; she would love to receive more!  jotimmsen@sonic.net                                        WineDonationFormFillout 2022.pdf

Maureen Merrill announced she is putting a viewing party together for our Spark Success fundraiser at Mutt Lynch Winery Downtown Windsor. Seating is limited. Contact Maureen for more information: 707-484-0320, Maureen@maureenmerrill.com OR create your own viewing Party, always more fun with friends. 

No Rotarian of the month,   Pam says she could not bring herself to allow for only one or two weeks of recognition.

Thanks to Brian Ling for taking the reins last week, with Jennifer Strong – a powerful program!  We are looking forward to Brian taking the lead in July. 
A special thank you to Sue Nelson for jumping in on February 1^st!

Tom Boylan offered to pay a fine to present Brian Ling with a mounted article announcing Brian’s planned departure from Sonoma County Alliance to preside as President of the Rotary Club of Windsor 2022-2023, and  embark on some new adventures. 

Student of the Year:  Jaycie Levar
Introduction by Jeff Vincent, teacher of social studies at WHS since 2004. Jeff was referred to WHS by Ken Moulton and was co-founder of the Pre-Med Core.  The pre-med core is commitment, compassion and desire to care for people. 

Jeff first met Jacyie when classes started; however, it was all distant learning. Jeff stated Jacyie was always present on camera, attentive, and helpful to other students.  Jaycie currently works with a non-profit organization and plans to become an Anesthesiologist.  

Jaycie is a senior in the Pre-Med Core at Windsor High School. She stated her Grandfather, the late Jack Levar was a Rotarian in Santa Rosa and she was familiar with Rotary.  Her Father, Jay is a fire fighter and from his profession she has been exposed to folks with PTSD. It has long been her desire to help people.  
     Jaycie is involved with the school community, although the pandemic has curtailed some programs Jaycie is still involved with Bring Change to Mind, (a high school program that raises awareness around mental health), College Readiness Club and Black Lives Matter. 
     Jaycie was elected as Vice President of the Senior Class, and is active in athletics. She plays on the JV softball team, soccer team, and tennis, she won 1st team all round athlete of the year.  Jaycie is also taking Bio Chemistry and is doing an internship in Bio Chemistry with a local company. Jaycie has not decided on a college as yet, but it is her goal to become an Anesthesiologist.                                  Thank you to the Rotary Club of the recognition. 

Past President Bill Arnone, representing the Past Presidents Advisory Committee, announced we were going to play (by tables) a game of: Presidents Gone – who did what? Each table was given a paper with all past president’s names on one side and True Factoids on the other. The goal was to match the President with the factoid.  It was great socializing, sharing memories and filling new members on some of our history, but boy are we a competitive group. 

Thank you Bill and Past Presidents for pulling everybody together!

Next meeting on February 22^nd we will be at Charlie’s.
Board Meeting online Monday February 21^st, 6pm

In Rotary we have themes for each month – This month’s theme is PEACE and CONFLICT month – Well – from Mahatma Ghandi

The day that the power of love overrules the love of power, the world will know peace!

DGE Jennifer Strong Inspires Us

Scribe notes by Barbara McChesney

Welcome from President Elect and guest President Brian Ling.
                 
Pledge of Allegiance by District Governor Nominee Tom Boylan
SONG – Bill Arnone sang ‘Let it be’ in keeping with all that is happening now.

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

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

SPARK SUCCESS TEAM updates:

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

Club Social next week on Thursday, Feb. 17 at Volo Chocolate in Windsor.  Joan Mora will be sending out more information.

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

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

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

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

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

Jennifer closed her presentation by answering questions from club members. 

President Elect Brian’s closing remarks:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our Club members watched as the students handled the 8 barrels, drilled the holes for connecting them together, and planned how to connect the pvc piping that completes the system.
Here are photographs of your Rotary Community Service funds at work.