Good Morning

Rotary Club

of Windsor
 

Opening & Music

• Michael LeComte led us in the Four Way Test.
• Larry Mills led a group singalong of “Proud Mary” (Creedence Clearwater Revival), tying into Memphis and riverboat themes.
• Maureen Merril shared a short inspiration, borrowed from Sunny Hakes, about embracing life’s challenges with creativity and resilience.

• Megan Gorman, guest speaker, introduced (financial planner, author, and Forbes contributor).
• Stefan Neiber, former Rotary exchange student from Germany, visiting.
• Alvin was present and next week will share some experiences growing up in Uganda and updates on his school and life here.
• Brian Williams introduced the principal of Brook’s Elementary, Shannon Vehmeyer.
• Diane Brabetz introduced her daughter, Melinda.

• Club Social: upcoming gathering at Tasting Notes Wine Lounge, 9086 Windsor Road, September 30^th 5:30-7pm — RSVPs requested by Sept 23^rd  michaelrjjuric@gmail.com .
• Companion Club: met last Thursday; decided to focus on sports and fitness as a theme for community engagement. Next meeting set for Sept 25 at 12:30pm, Windsor Library (Location may change so check email notices).
• Windsor Day Parade (Sept 27): volunteers still needed for spotters to help guide balloons. Let Leah Hanson know you can help lmhansen1@sbcglobal.net.  And if spotting isn’t your thing just come out and walk with the group
• Grants: Applications now open — about $100,000 expected to be distributed this year. Members encouraged to share applications with worthy causes.   The deadline to submit a completed application is Tuesday, October 14, 2025.

• International Projects: Club pledged support for two global grants —
  1. Maternal/child health program in India.
  2. Youth mental health initiative in Uganda.
     Additional partnership planned with Alvin’s club in Uganda to improve water/sanitation at local schools.
• Service Projects:
  • Arundo Removal — invasive weed-clearing on Russian River.
  • Simple Gesture — monthly food collection for local food banks.

• Diane Brabetz honored with Making a Difference award from the Council on Aging (event raised over $250,000).
• Birthdays, anniversaries, and personal milestones were celebrated with members contributing to Rotary causes in honor of their events.
• Several “confessions” and lighthearted stories shared, including travel adventures, bear encounters in Alaska, and upcoming trips to Ireland and Rome.

• Megan Gorman (wealth advisor, author of All the President’s Money) spoke about U.S. presidents and their financial habits.
• Highlights included:
  • Eisenhower: learned risk management and budgeting early; used poker winnings to pay for Mamie’s engagement ring.
  • Andrew Jackson & Abraham Lincoln: examples of “rags-to-riches” resilience.
  • Thomas Jefferson: brilliant, but terrible with money; died deeply in debt, Monticello auctioned.
  • Reagan & Clinton: examples of overcoming humble beginnings through resilience and opportunity.
• Key takeaway: Financial resilience—not just wealth—is the foundation of stability and success.

Date:  August 26, 2025
Good morning Rotary Club of Windsor.

President Larry opened the meeting @ 7:30am

Susan Cole led us in reciting the Four Way Test and led us in a rejuvenating song "Jambalaya (On the Bayou) Inspiration: Bill Bolster, he definitely is an inspiration to us, even in his absence due to the loss of his beloved wife Joan, and testing positive for COVID, he sent a simple message: CARPE DIEM, "seize the day".

VISITING ROTARIANS: Norm Fujita and Dave Henderson, both from Healdsburg Rotary Noon Club

GUESTS OF ROTARIANS:  Mary Bean, Windsor Presbyterian Church Pastor Mark Martindill: A Simple Gesture

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Ed Turner announced that Charlie's Grill has been sold, and the new management team will be taking over the operation of the restaurant asap. We will continue to use the room, however, it may take a week or two to coordinate the breakfast service. Ed is familiar with the new owner and is very optimistic it will be a positive change.

• Companion Club Meeting: Thursday August 28th, at 12:30 Cafe Noto. Contact Boyd Morrison for more info.
• Community Service Micro Grant: Monica shared will be giving all new teachers in the district $100.00 gift cards to welcome them to Windsor and help them with classroom expenses.

Monica also thanked Barbara for providing our Breakfast treats!

• August 28 is the Last Concert on the Green in Windsor and our last Rotary Bar that provides for our International Projects, this concert will feature Kenny Metcalf paying tribute to Elton John. BIG BLUE SOUL REVUE Always a Great One. Thank you President Larry for stepping up to help with set-up, and bartender.

A huge Thank you to Renee for coordinating the Rotary Bar and all the club members that have volunteered your efforts have raised almost $23,000. 00 with one more to go.

• Festival of Friendship March 14-25, 2026. Mexico Rotary District 4140 welcomes Rotarians from District 5130 to a project fair in Mexico to work on international projects together and foster fellowship. For more information contact: David Mark-Raymond (Sebastopol Sunrise)  dmarkray@gmail.com
• A Simple Gesture First food pick up September 6, 2025 Contact Barbara for more details

• Windsor Day Parade Sept. 27, Contact Leah for more details
• Club Social Sept 30, Details TBD (NO MEETING)

Leslie Lewis took over as task master to recognize members for their wonderful achievements:

Jim Curry was asked about his son and baseball, Brandon Curry was playing with the Petaluma Leghorns, he played shortstop and was mentioned as "notable player" in the press democrat. The Petaluma Leghorns won the State Championship in August and went on to win the American Legion Western Regional Tournament qualifying them for the World Series, unfortunately the Championship went to Texas but the Leghorns has a wonderful season, congratulations. Brandon in now attending Santa Rosa JC.

While the spotlight was on Jim Curry, it was brought up that Exchange Bank and Jim's picture has been popping up on several local publications, such as North Bay Business and Press Democrat, Best Of List.  Jim took the opportunity to shamelessly announce Exchange Bank is also sponsoring Windsor Chili Cook off Saturday September 6th, on the Windsor Town Green.   Jim is contributing to Rotary's Polio program for all the recognition.

Margaret Johnson shared she celebrated 50 years in California August 22, 2025. Margaret contributed to Rotary Polio.

President Larry McCabe celebrated his birthday August 23rd. Larry stated he had a quiet day, dinner and a movie with his lovely wife, just the what he wanted. Larry contributed to the Windsor Community Foundation.

Pegi Ball announced that the Santa Rosa Original Certified Farmers Market was voted the Best Sonoma County Farmers Market by the Press Democrat readers, 5 years in a row. Pegi contributed to the Windsor Community Foundation.

Pegi also threw a couple of other members under the bus, sharing with the club that Carol Martin and Catherine Hanron had appeared on the front cover of the August Windsor Connection magazine, they were recognized for their participation in the Windsor Soroptimist club. Recognition well deserved, Thank you.

Presentation

Barbara McChesney introduced our speakers, Mary Bean, Pastor of the Windsor Presbyterian Church and coordinator of the Food Pantry located at the church.

The Food Bank is open to the community every Tuesday 8:30am-10am. a new pavilion has been installed along with tents to protect people from the elements while they fill their own bags and boxes with food that is most appropriate for their families. Mary stated allowing people to select their own food has been a great opportunity to get to know the community, to learn about individual needs and has created a safe, welcoming community space.

Mary introduced Mark Martindill, president of BC Foods, he has been in the food industry most of his career and is active with the Food bank and the issue of food insecurity.  Mark became aware of a program call “A Simple Gesture” a program for communities to get involved providing food to community food pantries.     After researching the program Mark created a software system to streamline the volunteer hours needed to run the program.
Mark has been working with Paula and Wulf Reinhold of Rohnert Park Cotati Rotary Club and started a chapter in Rohnert Park being supported by Rotary. Paula and Wulf conducted a zoom meeting with members of Rotary District 5130, Barbara was present at that meeting and introduced the program to the Rotary Club of Windsor and the Windsor High School Interact Club.

Mark is scheduled to present the program at 2026 PET’s training. (Presidents in Training).

It’s as simple as it sounds. If you live in Windsor, scan this QR code to sign up to fill a bag with shelf stable food, leave it on your doorstep on Sept. 6th between 9 am and noon. Our volunteers will pick it up and take it to the Windsor Presbyterian Church Food Pantry. We will then leave you a bright green bag for the next pick up the following month.
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President Larry thanked our speaker and all the club members that contributed to our meeting.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:30am

Date:  August 19, 2025
Good morning Rotary Club of Windsor.

[This meeting was held In Charlie’s main dining room rather than the banquet room due to kitchen construction.]

President Larry rang the bell promptly at 7:30 and lead the group in a quote from the Declaration of Independence.

Larry Mills lead the group in an a cappella sing-a-long of ‘You are my Sunshine”

Margaret Johnson inspired the club through the writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson:

To Laugh Often And Much
To laugh often and much;?
to win the respect of the intelligent people?
and the affection of children;?
to earn the appreciation of honest critics?
and endure the betrayal of false friends;?
to appreciate beauty;?
to find the best in others; ?
to leave the world a bit better?
whether by a healthy child,?a garden patch,
or a redeemed social condition;?
to know that one life has breathed easier ?
because you lived here.?
This is to have succeeded.

 No visiting Rotarians today.

Visitors included guest speaker Claudio Calvo, his friend David Mohle and our new exchange student Alvin Xavier.

Larry showed a few photos from the highly successful debunking of ex-President Barbara from this past weekend.  Barbara expressed her deepest appreciation to the club for the party, for the opportunity to feel like a bride and the opportunity to serve as president.  The celebration left her feeling that her messages of the environment and peace were valued, heard, and appreciated.  The memories of the year as president and the wonderful debunking will last a lifetime. 

Announcements:

• Save the date for the next club social on Sept. 30 - details will be coming from Michael Juric.
• Leah is looking for volunteers for the Windsor Day Parade Sept. 27.
• Boyd has organized a meeting for the new satellite club (Companion) meeting this Thursday at 12:30 at the Windsor Library.
• Dennis Wilkinson is researching interest from club for painting curbs in Windsor to help with compliance of new state law requiring more clearance at corners.
• Renee reported that all is going well with the Rotary Bar and that there are only 2 weeks left for the summer.

Larry thanked club members for their contributions to the club in celebration of the events in our lives.

Presentation:
Our speaker today was Claudio Calvo, who grew up in Guam and moved to the United States in 1957 during the liberation.  They had run out of food and his little sister was near death due to starvation. A Marine saved her life and he and his brothers swore at that time that they would someday become Marines to give back.  He joined in 1968 and served 3 years in Vietnam.
Vietnam war veterans did not receive a hero’s welcome upon return to the U.S.  The consequences of this and the war itself left a scar on many veterans that has lasted to this day.  Claudio had missed a flight to San Francisco, fell asleep dressed in uniform in the terminal while waiting for the next flight.  He woke up to a woman spitting on him and calling him a baby killer.  He ultimately arrived in San Francisco and got a cab to his home.  The cab driver refused his money and thanked him for his service.  This made a big impact on Claudio.
Claudio has contributed in countless ways to veterans and veteran causes. Today he shared the experience of the recent Honor Flight from Santa Rosa to Washington DC where they visited many military memorials.  The video told the story beautifully and brought a tear to the eyes of many of our members.
Every veteran had a guardian travel with them since they are all 70 plus years old. The job of the guardian was to ensure the safety of the veterans.  Claudio’s guardian was his daughter, creating an even more special experience.
It was an incredibly experience for these veterans to share together and to receive a well-deserved hero’s welcome everywhere they landed.  Thousands were lined up to greet them upon their return to Sonoma County and Claudio said he finally felt like he was home.
Thank you, Claudio, for sharing this experience with our club.

Encore:
There was a little extra time at the end of the video allowing President Larry to show the incredible Gilbert and Sullivan performance from Barbara’s debunking. Fabulous lyrics by Monica McCabe and great performance by Monica, Carol and the Buccaneers JB, Larry Mills, Susan, Carol and Monica.  Great fun!

Thank you to our guests:
Claudio Calvo, David Mohle, and Alvin Xavier

Thank you to this week’s team:
Greeter: Margaret Johnson
A/V Set-up: JB Leep, Larry McCabe
Set-up: Eric Johnson
Breakfast: Barbara McChesney, Monica McCabe, Bill Bolster, and Jo Timmsen
Inspiration / Host: Margaret Johnson
Song: Larry Mills
Scribe: Barbara McChesney
Photography: Sue Nelson

ex-President Barbara's Debunking Party


 

Date:  August 12, 2025
Good morning Rotary Club of Windsor.


Pledge of Allegiance, Renee Hyde
Song: Geoffrey Harrison, “America the Beautiful”
Inspiration: Mike Ragsdale, A poem hailing the worldwide river of which we are tributaries. This river makes positive changes around the world.  The river is Rotary.
Visiting Rotarians: Today’s speaker and his wife: Lance Cottrell and Barbara Cottrell are from Healdsburg Rotary.
Visitors: Michael LeCompte’s lovely children, Mason, and Caroline, who is this month’s youth mayor.

Announcements:
A big Rotary welcome to Alvin Xavier, newly arrived from his home of Uganda, and who is our exchange student.  He is living with Bill Bolster, who was sporting a Uganda shirt – a gift from Alvin.

This year’s Council on Aging Benefit,  Harvest Community Table, to be held on September 13^th,  will be honoring Diane Brabetz’ At Home Nursing as the recipient of Making a Difference Award.  This award recognizes individuals and businesses whose extraordinary commitment and impact have truly enriched the lives of Sonoma County’s older adults.  Diane brought the need of Meals on Wheels to our attention last year, and it was the main recipient of our 2024 fundraiser.

Bar Report:  Renee reports that last week brought in $1768.65 for a annual total of $20,735.25. Bar proceeds fund our international efforts. 

Leah Hanson would love your help at the Windsor Day Parade: We need float rope holders, and members walking with the float! 

Barbara McChesney is working on rolling out A Simple Gesture: a neighborhood way of collecting food for the needy.

Renee and her husband Paul will be playing in the Rotary Golf Tournament.  Let her know if you would like to join the fun!

Celebrations: Leslie
Last week Brian Ling, Jose, Sue, and Bill all pledged to support the area of Rotary that is their favorite.  The choices are:  Community Endowment, Community Projects, Ken Moulton Scholarship, Polio Plus, your personal fines, RI Disaster, RI Annual Fund and International Fund. 

This week Robin S. will make a contribution to Community Projects for her birthday. Ed chose the Ken Moulton fund to honor his 47^th anniversary; Jim Curry has moved offices to Healdsburg, and while it’s not a celebration, he also has a new Tesla! So, he will choose Polio Plus for a donation.  Randall is married 52 years and will choose to support Polio Plus as well.  In keeping with our new resolution,  the amount of money is not mentioned or important; what is important is that we are celebrating our good fortune by sharing with Rotary projects!  Congratulations to this week’s celebrants!

Speaker: Lance Cotrell.  He is a member of Healdsburg Sunrise, did graduate work in astro physics and went on to found Anonymizer an internet security company that was born shortly after the world wide web.  His talk today was on Angel Investors.  Angel Investors are people that invest in startups.  With a significant investment (at least 25,000) Angel Investors get in on the ground floor of a startup, and usually have input with the management.  The goal of startups is to build a billion-dollar company within 7 years.  Angel Investors usually invest in about 10 different companies hoping that one will be the one that makes the goal.  Start-ups can be from many different sectors (food, green, construction, meditech, etc).  His group, North Bay Angels is involved with companies such as Invino, Verdant Robotics, Blentec, and Wuuii.  Cotrell advises that a prospective member shadow the process for a year to see how the process works. 

Thank you to this week’s team:
Greeter: Robin Schiffando
AV Set up: Brian Williams
Set-up: Steve Klick
Inspiration/Host: Mike Ragsdale
Song: Geoff Harrison
Scribe: Monica McCabe
Photography: Sue Nelson

Respectfully submitted: Monica McCabe
 

Date:  August 5, 2025
Good morning Rotary Club of Windsor.

 

Jo Timmsen: Four Way Test
Geoff Harrison, Song:  Don’t worry be happy
Leslie Lewis, Inspiration:
“Without passion there is no energy; without energy there is nothing”
-Warren Buffet
Guests:  Rob Izzo, CEO Circuit Riders
Gerardo Cortez, RV Adventures, and member of Leadership Windsor

Announcements:
Match Game, fundraiser at the Presbyterian church of Windsor.  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/windsor-match-game:fundraiser-for-windsor-presbyterian-church-tickets-1501961941599?aff=oddtdtcreator

State of the Club: on the bulletin board is posted the sandkey diagram of our budget (purely a visual tool) and a list of what our Club has done in the last year.  When people hear of Rotary they sometimes think, “Oh yeah, my Dad belonged to Rotary.” In contrast to that thought, our Club is extremely active and we can be proud of the contributions we have made to our community.

Exchange Student from Uganda, Alvin Xavier, arrives on Sunday at 11:45 a.m. at SFO and will be staying at Bill Bolster’s home.  Anyone who wants to meet Alvin at the airport is welcome – contact Bill for details.  Bill reports that Alvin is already calling Bill, “Dad.”

Our Club has applied for a District Grant which if approved will allow us to support the irrigation upgrade at Windsor’s Circuit Riders.

Leah Hanson:  The Windsor Day Parade is September 27, and we need rope holders for the float, and walkers for the parade!

Boyd Morrison has to delay discussions regarding a satellite club due to Covid. Get well soon, Boyd! Will reschedule later.

Carol Martin reminds everyone that dues are due!

Brian Ling:  Our Debunking, the annual salute to the past year’s president, will be Saturday August 16, 5:30 at Charlie’s restaurant.

Randall Neff reminds everyone that this Thursday is Hot Dog Thursday at the Pacific Coast Air  Museum at the Santa Rosa Airport.  Hotdog, drink and chips for $10.  Come out and have fun!  Randall recommends arriving at 11:30 to avoid lines.

Barbara McChesney:  President Larry introduced “Skin in the Game” whereby any member could take on a project with $500 support from the Club to begin with.  Barbara is working with the Interact Club to pilot a local branch for A Simple Gesture.  People sign up with the bar code that Barbara gave out.  Once signed up, you agree to put a bag of non-perishable groceries on your front porch to be picked up and delivered to the Presbyterian Food Pantry.  Pick up days will be once a month to start.  The $500 will used to purchase reusable grocery bags that have the Rotary logo on it and A Simple Gesture’s logo.  Contact Barbara at 707 477 1518 to sign up. 

Renee Hyde: Bar report:  $1,664.25 gross this last week; $18,966.70 cumulative raised for International projects. Four more concerts.

President Larry and Leslie Lewis rolled out a new concept for acknowledging Club birthdays, anniversarys and life events.  If a member would like to mention their event and would like to contribute something to some part of Rotary, please don’t mention money – just state that you would like to support _________.( e.g., community foundation, polio plus, Ken Moulton Fund, etc.)  That way the focus is not on the amount but on the idea of giving in gratefulness for your birthday/anniversary, etc.   President Larry would like the scribe to note who pledges so they can be recognized or reminded the following week. 

This week's celebrations:

Jose Diego’s birthday and his successful passing of the insurance license test!  He will give to Meals on Wheels.

Sue and John Nelson’s anniversary (#48 ) – Sue would like to give to Community Endowment.
Bill Bolster’s birthday is on 82^nd birthday is 8/8!

Brian and Debbie Ling are celebrating 40 years married, and moving to a new home, and his 64^th birthday!  He will favor Polio Plus!

Presentation  Rob Izzo, CEO Circuit Riders

Circuit Riders has three areas of service:
-  helping at risk youth (kids in or related to gangs, kids that have been justice involved, kids that are on a mandatory program to satisfy parole. This program is called Vista.

-training youth to work in environmental services such as fire mitigation, and eco restoration.  This is aimed at youth 16-30 years old to provide job skills and a stepping stone for career progression.

providing rides to seniors for medical appointments.

Circuit Riders was established in 1976 and is located on Old Redwood Highway in Windsor and has classroom and office space in Santa Rosa.

Rob Izzo hopes to not only provide services to youth who are struggling now, but to be a resource and touchstone for their future.  He is also working with at risk families to build community and strengthen through outdoor programs.   Rob hopes to strengthen Circuit Riders by working with other non-profits to expand programs, and community involvement.

Fundraiser for Circuit Riders:  Saturday, 10/11/25  from 1:00-4:00pm, Fiesta for a Future.  Tickets are at https://www.circuitriderscs.org

Thanks to:
Greeter: Robin Schifando
A/V Set-up: Randall Neff
Set-up: Bill Hogan
Inspiration / Host: Leslie Lewis
Song: Geoff Harrison
Scribe: Monica McCabe
Photography: Sue Nelson


 

Date:  July 29, 2025

Good morning Rotary Club of Windsor.

Declaration of Independence, 2nd sentence.  We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

Song: Bill Bolster;  “You’re the One that  I want!”

Inspiration: Joan Mora:  The biggest adventure you can live is living the life of your dreams

Visiting Rotarians:  John Anderson from Healdsburg Rotary

Announcements:

Meals on Wheels.  Our club delivers on Tuesdays and Thursdays

July 31:  Scarc dinner at Balleto Vineyards, 5:30pm

Monica:  The Rotary District Grant has been submitted for approval.  We hope to gain approval to help Circuit Riders with their irrigation system for raised beds to be used to help probational youth. 

Monica:  Joan Mora would like help with decorating for the Debunking:  Volunteers: Robin Schiffando and Catherine Hanron (if here).

Renee: The bar grossed $1,809.40 last week, for a cumulative total of $17,302.45!  There are 5 concert dates remaining.

Maureen reminds our Club that membership is an offer extended by the Board, so please be careful when introducing someone who is hoping to become a member.  Introduce them as a visitor, or as someone interested in the Club. 

Larry:  Recapped the dedication of the monument for the Kincade Fire  First Responders as Foothill Park.  The event was well attended.  The speakers were eloquent and brief, and the monument was well received.  The Club thanked Larry for his work on shepherding this project, Doug William’s dream, through to completion.   Larry asks that if anyone has pictures of the day, especially of other Rotarians, he would appreciate receiving them.


Speaker of the Day: Jeremy Decker, Superintendent, Windsor School District.

Mr. Decker began his tenure in 2020 with the arrival of Covid.  Before that he was Vice Principal and Principal in Cloverdale, and he attended Sonoma State and Northern Arizona Universities.
There are approximately 5000 students in the district.  
Mattie Washburn:  615 students, grades preschool to 2nd
Brookes Elementary:  500 students, grades 3-5
Windsor Middle: 738 students, grades 6-8
Cali Calmeca: 1141 students, grades pre k - 8
Besides the high school is there Big Picture and Virtual Academy and Windsor Oaks (approx. 2000 students combined)
The demographics of the district are 41% White, 50% Hispanic, 51% low income, and 12% ESL students. There is a $100,000,000 budget. 

Windsor Unified gets most of its revenue from personal income tax.  Windsor is a middle class economy, so the revenue is in the middle with reference to surrounding districts. 

Santa Rosa families are interested in District Transfers because of Santa Rosa School District problems. 
Windsor School District has a lack of modern buildings.
Measure V which was supposed to remedy this deficit with a bond was not passed.

Windsor Creek property.  The existing building will need to be torn down.  The property may be turned into staff housing.  The property may be sold to the developer who may or may not share some of the profits with the school district - this is not yet decided. 


Thank you to :

AV/Set up: Alissa Johnson
Set-up: Domingo Calleja
Inspiration: Joan Mora
Song: Bill Bolster
Scribe: Monica McCabe
Photography: Sue Nelson

Date:   7/22/2025

Good morning Rotary Club of Windsor.

Pledge of Allegiance

Song:  J.B.Leep – High Hopes!

Inspiration: Diane Brabetz – True measure of a society is how it treats its most vulnerable members! And other inspirations focused on the July Rotary International message.

Visiting Rotarians: None

Visitors: Michael’s dad – Norm LeComte visiting from Maine;
Andy Fulton prospective member

Announcements:
 

• Renee Rotary bar-ongoing throughout the summer
  • $1,565.60 – was a slower night!
  • Thanks to all that helped!
  • This week fully staffed!
• Monument Dedication – 7/22 at 6pm at Foothill Park
• Community service team meeting after this meeting – please stay.
• Wooden Box in front – Monica has many if you need some
• Visit friends – Mike Merrill, Sandy Krutz, Joan Bolster!
• Debunking Saturday, August 16^th – 5:30pm at Charlie’s, full plated dinner. Guests welcome - $50/guest, PLEASE RSVP – WE NEED A HEADCOUNT FOR DINNER!
• Carol – please make sure Carol notices you so she can check you off! Even if you come in the back.
• Carol – sent out dues invoices, know that it is there and Carol is always ready to take your money
  • Can pay on the website easily too
• Report from the board!
  • Budget approved
    • >30% increase in legacy projects
  • Youth – International student from Uganda still awaiting Visa
  • Community Service – Attend the meeting to hear proposals
    • Proposal for district grand with Circuit Riders
    • New proposal to partner with Interact on food insecurity
  • Socials - shooting for once a month
  • We’ll be bringing back “5^th Tuesday” starting in September
    • Go dark on the 5^th and have an extra social
• Boyd organizing a satellite club
  • Three meetings at the Windsor Library if you can attend
    • Tuesday, 8/5 – 12:30pm
    • Wednesday, 8/6 – 1:00pm
    • Thursday, 8/7 – 12:30pm
• Letter from Russian River keepers
  • Thank you letter for all of our hard work!
• Thursday nights – SMART train has an event train – leaves Southbound at 8:40.
• Renee – go over international projects
  • International committee first Monday of every month
    • Mostly by zoom, but sometimes in person
  • Study Buddy
    • Portable desk with handles
    • $1,500 contribution
    • Donate on behalf of speaker, have them sign a desk before giving out
    • Distributed in South Africa currently
  • Program for disabled individuals being taught cooking skills to support their independence
    • They can be street vendors
    • Work in restaurants
    • $1,000
    • This is with Domingo’s mom’s club
      • Hope we can become sister clubs
  • Susan Cole monitors international disasters
    • $2,000 set aside to help should there be an event
    • Looking into Texas to see if we can support there
  • Two projects in Mexico
    • Partner with Diane’s club in Mexico – Playa del Carmen
    • Funds for nursing home
      • Looking for washers and dryers
      • Approved $1,000 for them
    • Speech and language support project
      • Help with speech and language after cleft lip/pallet surgery
      • $1,000 for that
  • Gardens for Health
    • $1,000
    • Helps mothers plant and grow gardens for healthier food for their children
  • Van project
    • $1,000
    • Ambulance for Mexico, was on display at district training
    • Getting refurbished and sent to Mexico
  • Engineers without boarders
    • $5,000
    • Steve has done water projects with them in Peru
    • Provide water capture programs for clean drinking water
    • Build tanks to hold water for villages
  • Global grant - $35,000 minimum club participation so clubs get together to donate
    • $2,500
    • Complete wells, towers, pumps, pipes etc…to deliver clean water to villagers
    • Allows kids to be in school so they are not out collecting water
    • Provide clean water for 15,000-20,000 villagers!
  • Ten for girls
    • Program for girls in Africa
    • When girls start menstruating they don’t have basic materials so they drop out of school
    • For $10 each puts together reusable products so that they can go to school
    • $1,000
    • Takes stigmatism out of menstruation and both boys and girls participate
• Festival of Friendship - Pam
  • Formerly festival of brotherhood
  • Opportunity to do a project in Mexico (Roughly $2,600 per person to go)
  • Start in Guadalajara March 14 – March 25
  • 2^nd part of trip go to another town
  • Great way to put a face on international
• We have some great leads – they get everyone involved and take charge of projects and report back to committee!
• Monica – project preview committee meeting
  • All welcome to join
  • Circuit Riders – coming to front for recommendation
    • They have three parts
      • Training youth in landscape management
      • Windsor Wheels – rides for seniors for doctor appointments
      • Vista Academy – court ordered to graduate from program to complete sentence to get record erased and locked
    • Talking about a grant to upgrade irrigation system in their yard
      • 16 beds that the vista academy kids maintain
      • Kids can decide what they want in their beds, gives them a level of ownership
      • Another program is to get non English speaking families to learn how to use parks so they can navigate parks and take camping trips
        • Learning to read signs, and connect with family
  • Barbara – environmental moment
    • Got cookies from Safeway with NO plastic packaging for the Kincade memorial dedication.

Speaker: Claudio Calvo, Honor Flights – Unable to make it, we hope he is ok!


Thank you to:
Thank you to our guests. . . . .
Thank you to Catherine, Ed, and Carol
Greeter: Jason Black
A/V Set-up: Mike Raasch
Set-up: Kurt Mitchler
Inspiration / Host: Diane Brabetz
Song: J.B. Leep
Scribe: Alison Huber
Photography: Sue Nelson

July 15, 2025

Good morning Rotary Club of Windsor.

The meeting opened at 7:30 by President Larry.  The four-way test was read by John LeCave and followed by "Surfin USA" led by Larry Mills and sung by the club with tons of enthusiasm and wiggles!! The inspiration selected by Michael Le Comte was from Denzel Washington.
At the end of the day, it's not about
what you have or what you've accomplished...
It's about who you've lifted up, 
who you've made better.
It's about what you've given back.

Visiting Rotarians and Visitors:
District Governor Kristine Redko was visiting from the Sonoma Twilight, Assistant Governor Marilyn Lira was from Santa Rosa East West Club.

The incoming and outgoing short term exchange students (Audrey from Windsor and Maria from Barcelona, along with Audrey’s mom Betsy).  Pegi Ball noted that each of the exchanges are for a month.  The students live together for a month in the incoming student's country and then for a month in the United States. She noted that there would not be a presentation or exchange of flags because "this is not their favorite hour of the day!"

Announcements:
•JULY 22nd - at 6pm, at Foothill Park.  This will be the dedication of the Kincaid Monument which was a collective effort amongst local agencies and spearheaded by past president Doug Williams. Larry gave recognition to both Michael LeComte and Steve Klick (as well as Larry McCabe) for picking up the mantle to ensure that this monument would come to fruition!

•Carol Martin stood in for Renee Hyde to update the club on the successes of the Rotary Bar!  Today date we have raised $13,927.45!!  Last week alone we made $3300!!  Looks like the crowds get thirsty when they are out there dancing!  So glad that we can provide some relief both for the locals and for our international recipients!!
 
SPEAKER
Assistant Governor Brian Ling introduced District Governor Kristine Redko.  He referenced having worked with her years ago!!  It was noted that in 2007, she joined the Rancho Cotati club where she served in several positions.  In 2010 she was president and "birthed" two children and led her club on to become the club of the year!  She is a great singer and is using Music as her theme this year!

Her theme for our district, 5130 is "Creating Harmony through Rotary".  She noted that the Rotary Club of Windsor is her first club to visit and the she feels very strongly aligned with our club!  She feels that "Rotary is the music of our heart!" Kristine mentioned that she had asked each of the President what was the name of a song that represented their Club's attitude towards Rotary. President Larry chose a song called "Let's get moving into Action" by Tim Armstrong.  Kristine played a portion of it so that we could get the idea!

She asked the club members what is your "WALK UP" song? Does Rotary ignite passion and if not, WHY NOT?  She is desirous of having everyone in the club to be in a place that moves them!  that ignites them!!

Kristine reviewed the history of the development of the Rotary Club of Windsor (a little) and then acknowledged that the Rotary Club of Windsor has the highest number of Past District Governors - Michael Juric, Ken Moulton, Maureen Merrill, Mike Merrill and Tom Boylan.  She also reviewed this year's club goals which included "getting each member engaged in an activity; to grow the financial participation and increase membership."

She reviewed Rotary's seven areas of service and made note that different clubs highlight and give support to different areas.  She also said that she was not developing a new set of goals, rather she was intending on continuing with the goals of the previous years in an effort to acknowledge continuity. She made note that we have multi-faceted issues that require multi-year support.

Within that theme, she made note that she will continue to give particular focus to supporting mental health issues, with particular focus on support of Tom's Boylan's resource site.  She also intends to give focus to Human Trafficking citing October 18th as a "WALK FOR FREEDOM in support of addressing the multi-faceted challenges associated with human trafficking. Support of International Projects is also an area of focus for this year.  She acknowledged that Windsor is a leader in   international projects but highlighted consideration for some new countries (i.e. Peru).  Finally, she indicated that she is hoping to start a District 5130 film series where movies/films that will stimulate increased awareness on various topics will be presented.  She encouraged Rotarians to invite Non-Rotarians to the films.  At present there are two films scheduled on:

*August 21st - Soldiers of Song (about music for the soldiers in the Ukraine)

•September 27th - The Climate Restorers

She mentioned that previously the film called "The Final Inch" (about Polio) had been shown.  She credited Arch Klumpf  with saying "No one can tell us what Rotary will be like tomorrow, but one thing is certain: What Rotary will be tomorrow depends upon what we Rotarians do today!"

Kristine  encouraged each of us review our options on how to experience Rotry in a way that brings us joy!

The 2026 District Conference will be held on MAY 1-3, 2026 in Nevada.  It will be themed as "UNITE for GOOD" and be a grouping of FIVE Districts from California and Nevada.  Information and Registration is on the District Website.  Kristine emphasized her desire to visit all clubs by December as well an intention to visit each club, three times!!

She concluded her presentation and opened the floor to questions from the club members.  Questions and responses addressed: the change in leadership for Rotary International, (new RI President is not FRANCESCO AROZO, from Italy); information about her singing with the PICKLED BEETS, her history with theater; the status of Rotary Membership in District 5130; consideration of doing Collaborative Fundraisers with other community organizations as well as a lovely serenade of "Your Song" by Elton John.

The meeting concluded with a presentation of the new HARMONY award that is given to a member of the club, recommended by the President,  for his/her support of a positive attitude and acting in the spirit of Rotary.  Without QUESTION, the award was given to MONICA McCABE!!  the PERFECT CHOICE!!

Kristine indicated that she is big on Social Media and will keep us informed on all that is going on through social media. 
 
President Larry concluded the meeting with a presentation of a gift (notebook and certificate for STUDY BUDDY) to DG Kristine and thanked everyone for all that they did to get the meeting set up,etc.
 
Submitted by Pam Moulton,
with some errors, no doubt!!

Date:7/8/25

Good morning Rotary Club of Windsor.

Pledge: Led by President Larry, the club recited the preamble to the Declaration of Independence:  “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

Song:  Susan Cole led us in a fun rendition of “Sherry (Larry) Baby!!!!!!!!!!!!”

Inspiration:  Barbara McChesney Ann Bunout "We don't need a handful of people doing zero waste perfectly. We need millions of people doing it imperfectly.  Perfection isn't the goal. If it was easy, 'Plastic Free July' wouldn't be a challenge."

Visiting Rotarians: Tom Boylan PDG (Santa Rosa East/West)

Visitors: Rosalie Lucille, Meghan McCabe


Announcements:

• Larry McCabe: District Governor Kristine Redko will visit our club next week.  First stop for her annual presentation to the clubs in the district.
• Renee Hyde: Rotary bar-ongoing throughout the summer.  The weekly event on the Town Green did not take place last week for the July 4^th holiday but we will be back in action this Thursday (10^th) for the Fleetwood Mac tribute band.  We’re always looking for volunteers even if you can always stop by for a few minutes and say hello.
• Monica McCabe: Kincade Monument dedication.  Tuesday July 22, 6pm.  In appreciation to the 1^st Responders and the entire Town of Windsor that orderly evacuated the community allowing the fire to be stopped at our Town Limits.

• Barbara McChesney: Party for Wally and Sandy on Saturday July 12, 1pm-4pm, at Barbara and Dave’s house.
• Ed Turner:  Tribute to Mike Merrill, recognizing him as a Life Member of the Rotary Club of Windsor!  The Windsor Club started with 37 men and 20 women and we still have 5 original Charter Members: Dianne, Leslie, Maureen, Sue, and Ed.  At that time Mike was a member of SR West Rotary.  Mike and Ed were roommates at the 1994 President Elect Training Seminar and Ed shared some of the fun that they had. Mike was DG in 1999-2000 (Maureen 2011-2012), transferred to our club in 1994.  And now an Honorary Member of Rotary Club of Windsor.

• Larry: Goals, TLDR “We Get ‘er Done”
  • Grow Active Participation
    • Each of us works in at least 1 activity/committee
  • Grow Financial Participation
    • 100% Paul Harris Club by 2026
  • Grow Membership
    • 5% YOY growth
    • New Satellite Club
• Barbara: Environmental
  • Reviewed last year’s accomplishments
  • Similar projects ahead including Russian River protection, Wasteless Windsor, and new projects like Bike Riding and Food Security
  • What can we do to get dirty, raise awareness in our club and community, raise our impact in our community, and collaborate with others to increase our impact.
• Monica: Community
  • Active Participation. (Skin in the game)
    • Reviewed 11 Active Club participation work events in the prior year.
  • Committee planned. (We are the game
  • Club Financed (We enable the game)
    • Reviewed 12 community projects that we invested over $20,000 in our local community

• Pegi: Youth
  • Various youth service projects, over 10 last year
  • Interact club is beginning its 3^rd year, ended in June with 80 members
  • Youth Exchange, Young man from Uganda
• Renee: International
  • Invested $15,000 in recently approved projects with an active Windsor Rotarian championing each cause.
  • Rotary International allows us to invest in Peace and Health throughout the world.
  • Always looking for new champions to take on new opportunities.

• Larry: Financial. (Opportunity to increase our effectiveness)
  • Comparison of WRCF and RCW structure
  • New expenditure policy for our projects of the future
    • • $15,000/quarter moving forward
      • Starting with $15,000 reserve
  • Fantastic opportunities to expand our investment in our legacy projects and invest in new projects.  Make a big and lasting impact into our community.
  • Total ~ $140,000 per year.  We are in position to make a big difference!

Enjoyed the International Convention in Calgary.  Met new President Francesco Arezzo (Orthodontist from Italy) who has a great vision focusing on membership and polio.


Thank you to: Thank you to our guests. . . . . Rosalie, Meghan, and PDG Tom

Thank you to Catherine, Ed, and Carol
Set-up: Eric Johnson
A/V set-up: Jose Diego
Inspiration:  Barbara McChesney
Song: Susan Cole
Scribe: Brian Ling
Photography: Sue Nelson (or TBD)