This meeting is one of our very special events for the year.  The inspiration and birth of this program was by our own Ken Moulton, and his name and recognition was mentioned by virtually every speaker who took the microphone.

Pledge of Allegiance was led by Pegi Ball

Our song was the very appropriate “School Days” led by JB and Carol, a song from 1907!

The program of our entire Rotary meeting is below and tells the story of our valuable and inspirational teachers in the Windsor School District.

Photos from the meeting appear after the program shown below.

Update on COVID information from your Rotary Nurse…..
 
05/03/22
 
NEWS: COVID-19 INFECTIONS RISE IN THE COUNTY BUT DEATHS AND HOSPITALIZATIONS ARE STILL LOW!  ICU ADMISSIONS HAVE NOT SPIKED.   Please be aware of those who are immunocompromised and continue to apply good hand washing and wear a mask around those who need us to.  FDA did approve the first drug treatment for COVID 19 for children younger than 12.  Remdesivir or Veklury was approved for pediatric patients 28 days and older and weighing at least 7 lbs for treatment of COVID 19.
 
COVID UPDATE: The pandemic is not over so encourage those who have not had their booster to do so.   The 2^ND booster dose is available for those over 65 or those 50 years old with chronic health conditions.   We do still have some of our community members dying (we lost someone in Windsor) and the current wave of cases is tied to the variant BA.2  and a newer variant, BA 2.12.1.
 
Total Cases: 856,174  (last week 85,413)  Recovered: 83,787 (last week 83,320)   Active Cases: 897 (last week 1604)        
Deaths:  490   (last week 489)
Hospitalized:17 confirmed cases and 3 in the ICU (last week 18 confirmed and 4 in the ICU)
 
Vaccination information: As of May 1st, 2022, 1,059,926  doses of vaccination have been given to residents in Sonoma County.  (last week 1,059,017). We remain at 82% of our population 5 years and older who are fully vaccinated and 7% have had at least one (1) dose.
MASKS: Regardless of vaccination status, masks are no longer required in most public settings, although Public Health Officials strongly recommend masking in public indoor settings, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces.  Masks are now optional on airplanes; however, they are still required in airports and most other forms of public transportation.  The CDC is still recommending masks on airplanes so it has now become a personal decision.
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.   

TESTING:   Go to socoemergency.org  to learn more about free COVID -19 testing in Sonoma County. Look for COVID-19 Testing and Tracing in Sonoma County. In addition my staff at At Home Nursing still are 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 to schedule an appointment. 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.  
 
Thanks so much for all you have done to help in this pandemic and take it so seriously. You continue to be the key to keeping our community safe! 

Di

Our Pledge of Allegiance was led by Monica Mcabe.

Past President Bill thanked the Club for its support WHILE Joanie was under medical care and
confirmed the good news that Joanie is BACK HOME!

President Pam started the meeting by introducing President Richard Norgrove from the Healdsburg
Noon Club that has been active with several Roary Clubs in Ukraine and is supporting them through the
current crises AND by welcoming David Doht as our newest member. Rumor has it that he might be
tapped for some environmental projects!

Song Leader: Heather Cullen rebranded Elvis to start the Day: “You know you’re a Rotarian when your
serving all the time…” That’s us!

Beth Smith presented our check for $3000 to the Healdsburg 20-30 Club in support of the Kid’s Spree
Event – yea team!

Renee Hyde was acknowledged for participating in Earth Day events and winning first place in the
Crossfit competition – sounds like a Windsor Community Fund bell is in her near future!
President Pam Welcomed our speaker John Pomfret, a writer and columnist for the Washington Post
who held us spellbound with insights of the crises in Ukraine and its roots – plus views on the growth,
changes and dynamics of Russia and Europe that bring us to this place in history – in addition to several
good – and true --spy stories.

Mitch Grandi was revealed as our Secret Greeter – Did you miss him AND not “fess up!”

Final Thought from President Pam:
Peace comes from within! And it does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble or
hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart.
Sounds like a Rotary Club...

NEWS:                  FDA yesterday approved the first drug treatment for COVID 19 for children younger than 12.  Remdesivir or Veklury was approved for pediatric patients 28 days and older and weighing at least 7 lbs for treatment of COVID 19.
 
                                Please note that our active case rate for COVID has climbed; however with vaccination rates being over 70% we are seeing less people really sick and needing hospitalizations.   This does not mean we could not see another surge or infections climb even more, but for those that are fully vaccinated and boosted, we are now able to travel, visit with others and have some normalcy back.  Enjoy that but just be careful around those immunocompromised. 
 
 
COVID UPDATE:   2^ND BOOSTER DOSE AVAILABLE FOR THOSE OVER 65 OR THOSE 50 YEARS OLD WITH CHRONIC HEALTH CONDITIONS.   New variant BA.2 is being seen in the USA and seems to be slightly more transmissible but no more severity of disease has been seen.
 
Total Cases:        85,413  (As of 4/5 83,997)           Recovered:   83,320   (as of 4/5 82,338)             Active Cases: 1604 (as of 4/5 week 927)        
 
Deaths:                489   (as of 4/5 488)
 
New Cases:         312 new cases on Sunday
 
Hospitalized:      18 confirmed cases and 4 in the ICU     
 
Vaccination information….  As of April 24th, 2022,   1,059,017  doses of vaccination have been given to residents in Sonoma County.  (as of 4/5 1,021,098).     82% of our population 5 years and older  are fully vaccinated and 7% have had at least one (1) dose.
MASKS:               Regardless of vaccination status, masks are no longer required in most public settings, although Public Health Officials strongly recommend masking in public indoor settings, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces.  Masks are now optional on airplanes; however, they are still required in airports and most other forms of public transportation.
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.    Enjoy our relaxation of mandates, but keep others safe please.
TESTING:   Go to socoemergency.org  to learn more about free COVID -19 testing in Sonoma County.  Look for COVID-19 Testing and Tracing in Sonoma County.   In addition my staff at At Home Nursing still are 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 to schedule an appointment.    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.  
 
Thanks so much for all you have done to help in this pandemic and take it so seriously.   You have been instrumental in helping our community!

Rotary Club of Windsor Meeting April 19th, 2022

Rotary Moment:

Pam - Grew up in a Rotary household with a sister, Terry, who is differently-abled. Both were raised the same and on last Friday’s social at Artisan Alley, it was a joy to see all the Rotarians treating Terry just the same.

All hail guest president Bill Arnone - for his presiding over last week's meeting!

Guests of Rotarians:

Eric Keel - Water Agency

Emma Keel - Student of the month

Julie Keel - Long-time Sonoma resident

Mei Lee Purvis - STEM teacher at WHS

John Brito - Welding/Shop Teacher WHS

Marie Gannister - Culinary Teacher WHS

Rotarian of the Month for April - Doug Williams.

    Announcements:

• Susan Cole presents $33,000 to Windsor High School to revamp the Vasconi Welding Center
• Many thanks to all the members that were panelists for Windsor BUILD academy
• Windsor Day Parade is cancelled!
• Still time to book tickets for District 5130 Conference in Fortuna
• Pegi was in Hawaii and came back with a few gifts for the President
• Passport: This week’s topic  WRCF – Windsor Rotary Community Foundation. Learn the history and purpose of WCRF, the different funds and sources, and our current projects.

Student of the Month:

Melee is a new teacher in the STEM program, introducing Emma Keel who won Student of the Month for the STEM Core even programming robotic arms for our veterans!

Guest speaker for today, Grant Davis is the General Manager for Sonoma County Water Agency - Sonoma Water. 

Eric Keel, Emma’s father keeps our water flowing and his daughter highlights the hope for the future. 

We are about to raise water rates, currently Sonoma County has the lowest rates in the Bay Area and possibly in the State. We are benefiting from the foresight of those before us, we now need the investment to continue to develop these programs. These rate increases are going to be consistent (3-6%) over time to bring us in line with our costs and allow for planning. We will also be improving efficiencies to reduce waste.

The last major drought was in 2008. We had to ask individuals to invest in efficiency gains in the midst of very hard economic times. We were able to get through that and will need to do that again in the coming years.

Lake Sonoma has about 3 years buffer but we need to ensure that is enough for us in combination with Dry Creek. We can get through this with continued support.

Final quote of the day: 

April 24th is Earth Day…sometimes we forget that we are all united on one physical front… Remember:

The Earth is what we all have in common…Wendell Berry
 

Thank you to:

Greeter: Laura Buhrer

Song: Bill Arnone

Scribe: Dev Sodagar

A/V set-up: Beth Smith

Zoom team: Brian Williams / Michael Juric

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

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

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.

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!

Past President Leslie Lewis takes over our meetings and “Fines Away!

Pledge of Allegiance – given the issues in Ukraine, this had real meaning this morning!
Song:     JB led us in our song and my only comment is “we need to keep our Day jobs!”
Rotary Moment:
                Past President Leslie shared with us two of her Rotary moments….. she attended her first Rotary meeting with her Dad, John (Founder of our Windsor Rotary Club) at age 9 and still remembers a huge cake rolled in and a scantily clad women jumping out…    that is a visual!
Second Rotary Moment was joining our Club and becoming involved in the Exchange Program which she ended up becoming our Exchange Student Coordinator – did you know she and Nirmal hosted 12 students from various countries for us???  Leslie says she still loves the saying that she heard early on in the exchange program – “IF you know someone somewhere it is hard to go to war against them”.   How very true….
Visiting Rotarians:           None
Guest of Rotarians:

1. 1. Beth Smith introduced her family – husband Donnie, and daughters, Kate and Emma
   2. Kelly and Greg Mortenson and their daughter, Rebecca
   3. Glenda Sales – our very own Past President and former Exchange Student Coordinator introduced her husband, Sergio
   4. Domingo – our adopted son from Chili
   5. At some point in here, Past President Leslie fined John How $5 for talking out of turn!

Rotarian of the Month:
                Dev Sodagar – thanks for all that you have done already for our Club!

Rotary International:
                John Hackenburg let us know that RI has earmarked monies to go to the relief fund for Disaster Response in Ukraine.   Donate through Rotary and ensure your monies go to the relief and make a difference.   You can go on DACdb – go to Donate – then choose Disaster Response Fund and make your contribution.    Tom Boylan, District Governor Elect also let us know that we would be getting something from our District with this information to make our donations easy to make.

Fund Raising Event:
                Co chair, Bill Conklin reminded us that our event is Saturday, March 26^th.    We are suggesting that we all gather wherever you will watch this at 5:30 pm and the Auction will begin at 6:30 pm.    On March 12^th, the Silent Auction items will open to the public to begin bidding.  Bidding closes on Sunday, March 27^th (you have another day after our event) at 5 pm.   

                Catherine Hanron, who is handling Silent Auction items reported that we have 77 items totaling $23,000 right now but she needs us to get up off our butts and get her more!!!!   We have a goal of 100 items so she needs everyone to find more silent auction items.   If you have an idea but are hesitant about contacting someone to ask, let Catherine know.   She will help…

Scholarship Committee:
                Terry Andreachhi, has taken over the Scholarship Committee.   Thanks Terry….  We have $10,000 to give out in scholarships this year and already have about 15 applications from students.   Terry asked for volunteers to be on the committee and help decide who should be awarded.   The following members did volunteer:
Di Brabetz, Pam Moulton, John How, Carol Martin, Dev Sodagar, Bill Bolster, Mitch Grandi, Bill Arnone, and Mike Merrill.  If this scribe missed anyone, please contact Terry to let him know you are interested.

PETS Training: (President Elect Training Seminar)
                Seems a group of ours knew “their way to San Jose….”  Brian Ling (President Elect), Tom Boylan (District Governor Elect), and Sandie Krutz (Assistant Governor elect) went to San Jose – I cannot stop singing that song…… and they returned bearing gifts for our President Pam.   They shared there were about 400 people there and they got to meet and hear Jennifer Jones, who will be the First Woman President of RI.  Her theme come July will be “Imagine”    We have a heavy presence in our District with so many Past District Governors and our own Michael Juric is the District Trainer and very involved.   Windsor has a huge impact and we should be very proud!

• April 2^nd the District Assembly will be held in Ukiah 8am-3 pm with a Social the evening before (April 1^st)
• May 21-22 will be our District Conference in Fortuna. 
• Did you know our Windsor Rotary club is 35 years old????   YAY

Exchange Program:
Beth Smith shared with us this will be our first exchange program in 2 years because of the pandemic.  Glenda Sales, Pegi Ball, Renee Hyde, Bill Bolster and Sandie Krutz who have all been involved with the Youth Exchange program along with Leslie Lewis welcomed our 2 outbound students and introduced them and their families.   They were each presented with a flag from the country they will be going to because our District was not able to hold the ceremony where current exchange students from their country they get would wrap them in the country’s flag and present it to them.

• Rebecca Mortenson will be going to Sweden and she shared her thoughts of going away and thanks for being selected.  
• Kate Smith has tried to go several times and each time COVID stopped her program.   3^rd time is a charm and she got Japan this time which was her first choice.    She is thrilled!
• Past President Leslie shared her thoughts on the program and encouraged them to cry in the shower, but enjoy every experience.
• Di Brabetz whose daughter, Melissa, was our Club’s first exchange student to Sweden shared what a life changing experience this was for Melissa.  She encouraged the students to participate fully, enjoy every experience they could and live each day to the fullest. 

FINES:
                And then we turned Past President Leslie loose to fine………..  there is no one like her!!!

• Mitch Grandi – recognized for his birthday which he says he has nothing planned fun – “Kaching” she fined him $5 – the hit him with another $20 for being out of our Club for awhile.   Welcome back Mitch – we are happy to have you!
• Di Brabetz – was at her house in Mexico using Past President’s Leslie’s hammock, soaking up sun and celebrated her Anniversary there and has a Birthday coming up – “Kaching” – Di made a $1000 donation to the Ukraine Disaster Relief
• Carol and JB – took a trip to Savannah Georgia - $50 fine to Carol and JB will finish his fines…..
• John LeCave – has a birthday but not there for Leslie to fine him
• Bill Conklin – it is his wife’s birthday on the 13^th – “Kaching” - $500 donation to the Ukraine Disaster Relief.
• Monica and Larry - $5 for not having a picture yet.   And they went on a trip to Hawaii, sawy the volcano, and swam with Manta Rays…. “Kaching”… $100 for each to donate to the Ukraine Disaster Relief.
• Leslie Lewis – Brian Ling suggested that because Leslie has missed meetings, under the 4 Way Test, etc. that she be fined and there was a chorus of Past Presidents that seemed to go along with this – so the fines were turned on Leslie and she agreed to pay $100 to her John Lewis Fund.
• Renee Hyde – she was on the slopes skiing and won at Video Poker – “Kaching” $50 to the Ukraine Disaster Relief
• John Hackenburg – seems there is new BMW that he and Jean are picking up back East and will get to go on the track.    “Kaching” – he made a $1000 donation to the Ukraine Disaster Relief.
• Sue Nelson – went to Grass Valley / Nevada City – Leslie asked if she drank?? – “Kaching” - $250 donation to the Ukraine Disaster Relief
• John Howe – finished his John Lewis Fund and put $150 to Polio Plus
• Do you realize our Club in a very short amount of time pledged $3000 towards the Ukraine Disaster Relief!   We should be so very proud – thanks everyone….. This scribe was not sure she got all of the fines so please accept my apology…. Money flies around so fast when Leslie is President for the Day!  It was hard for me to keep up!!!

WRAP UP:
Past President Leslie introduced herself to the new members she has not met and made sure to congratulate again our 2 outgoing Exchange Students, Rebecca and Kate.   Have a great year!

ADJOURNMENT:
Past President Leslie thanked all for coming and allowing her to fill in.  In an honor to Warren Buffet, she closed with one of his sayings…. “The most important thing to do if you find yourself in a hole is to stop digging”!

SEE YOU NEXT TUESDAY…….

COVID UPDATE:    BOOSTERS HAVE BEEN FOUND TO BE VERY PROTECTIVE IN THE FIGHT AGAINST COVID!
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: 82,921   (last week 82,449) 
Recovered: 80,253   (last week 78,200)
Active Cases:2191 (last week 3775)        
Deaths: 477   (last week449)
New Cases: 472 cases this past week   (last week 661) 
Hospitalized: 33 confirmed and 2 suspected    (last week 32 confirmed and 2 suspected)      

Vaccination information….  As of March 6th, 2022, 1,009,710 doses of vaccination have been given to residents in Sonoma County.  (last week 1,006,076).     81% 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.  On March 7th, she issued an Amendment No. 3 to the Order which allows (health care still required) to exempt from testing and face covering requirements for those fully vaccinated but not yet boosted.  However, it does continue to allow employers to continue to require testing on non-boosted personnel, personnel with confirmed COVID 19 infection, or anyone with symptoms.    Because our County has had a reduction in the number of COVID 19 cases and hospitalizations public health is shifting away from testing as testing materials are low in supply and difficult to obtain.
Unvaccinated individuals over age 2 will continue to be required to wear masks in all indoor public settings.   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 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.
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.   

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.   

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.

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

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!

Our Pledge of Allegiance was led by Monica Mcabe

President Pam started the meeting by asking all members to proudly acknowledge the successful results of our Spark Success fund raiser – that generated just shy of $70,000.00.  Take a big bow Rotarians!

JB found his Rotary Moment at a Rotary Convention – Hearing Bill Gates passionately extoll the great partnership of Rotary and the Gates Foundation in teaming up to eliminate polio from the face of the earth – and how he “had” be part of such an organization – to our respective good fortunes!

Song Leader:  Heather Cullen put a smile on our “Baby Faces” -- to start the day as she can do so well!

President Pam enthusiastically Welcomed our sole visiting Rotarian, speaker for the day and star supervisor for the 4^th Supervisorial District James Gore – who was accompanied his assistant Keith Roberts (who is currently seeking a Rotary Club home in Santa Rosa!)

Supervisor Gore discussed a broad range of local issues with specific emphasis on emergency services, energy delivery issues & insurance, the ongoing drought and water resource challenges and very local issues of proposed Tribal casinos – and appropriate tribal connections!

Renee Hyde reminded us that we were on track to create the New Member Passport where Club and Rotary information can be easily located and accessed.

Wally & Sandy Krutz are hard at work creating a resource of needs in Ukraine that can be easily accessed to provide support for those in need in that area of global conflict and tragic carnage.

President Pam reminded all that they should take advantage of the good fellowship and critical information that is available at the Ukiah District Training Assembly – this coming weekend – April 1 – 2 – And there is a Rotary Reward to the best club party venue on Friday night! (Do we have such a team?)

Closing thought (by President Pam):  Remember our District Conference – is May 14^th & 15^th …at the River Lodge in Fortuna.  Sign up now!

And lest you forget…We are looking forward to participating in the Windsor Day Parade on May 7^th (10am to 12pm) with our super-sized Rotary Balloon!

COVID UPDATE FROM DIANE BRABETZ:

42% OF AMERICANS HAVE TESTED POSITIVE FOR COVID-19 UP FROM 27% IN LATE JANUARY.  VACCINATIONS AND BOOSTERS HAVE KEPT FOLKS OUT OF HOSPITALS HOWEVER AND OFF VENTS!

Total Cases:  83,717 (last week 83,396)      Recovered: 82,338  (last week 81,871)       Active Cases: 892 (last week 1041)   
Deaths: 487  (last week 484)
New Cases: 83,396 total cases as of March 20, 2022 in Sonoma County!
Hospitalized:   21 confirmed and 1 ICU cases  (last week 15 confirmed and 3 ICU cases)  

Vaccination information: As of March 27th, 2022, 1,014,970 doses of vaccination have been given to residents in Sonoma County. (last week 1,013,260).  81% of our population 5 years and older are fully vaccinated and 7% have had at least one (1) dose.

MASKS: Regardless of vaccination status, masks are no longer required in most public settings, although Public Health Officials strongly recommend masking in public indoor settings, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces. It does remain the safest choice for an individual and does protect those who are medically vulnerable or those who cannot be vaccinated such as our youngest children.  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 outbreak or new surge.

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.  Enjoy our relaxation of mask mandates, but keep others safe please.

TESTING:  Go to socoemergency.org to learn more about free COVID-19 testing in Sonoma County. Look for COVID-19 Testing and Tracing in Sonoma County.  In addition, my staff at At Home Nursing still are 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 to schedule an appointment.  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.  

Thanks so much for all you have done to help in this pandemic and take it so seriously.  You have been instrumental in helping our community!

Meeting Notes by Mike Merrill

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

Pledge of Allegiance:  Susan Cole

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday, January 25, 2022 by Susan Cole

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

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

Pledge of Allegiance – Catherine Hanron

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

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

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

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

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

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

Announcements:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Announcements:

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

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

BOARD Highlights - January 17, 2022
BUDGET (Carol and Ed)
•All Good!! – Lots of money in our WRCF and Club
•Lots of opportunities to do wonderful projects locally and internationally
•Decided that we need to write out our procedures for future club leaders!
YOUTH (Pegi)
•Kids are gearing up for the short term exchange – we will meet them!
•CHOICES is still alive but due COVID, we need to wait…
•KOOL KIDS Camp is still on – but at a reduced scale
CLUB OPERATIONS (Chris)
•Tom Boylan going to turn in his pen as scribe due to DG job
•SCRIBE class is happening TODAY after our regular ZOOM mtg
•Will work with Wally and DACdb to start to input practices into a database

RECOGNITION (DOUG)
•Looking for new person to work on Scholarship Committee
•All good for Teacher Appreciation and Recognition for fire and police
BOARD Highlights, continued - January 17, 2022
FOUNDATION (John H and Brian L)
•Going to wait for LIVE meeting to present the new Paul Harris recipients and PolioPlus recipients
•NO new cases of the WILD Polio Virus!!
Club Culture (Joan)
•3rd Thursday is for Rotary including this Thursday at Mengler Winery @5:30
•Truckers against Traffikers is in the conversation – not sure when!!
COMMUNICATION
JB to introduce WEBSITE at next week’s meeting!!
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE (Barbara McChesney)
•We are an Ambassador Club joining 80 others around the world!
•Recommended Practices will be on Website
•Watch for HANDS ON activities for EARTH DAY and other events!
SERVICE (Sue Nelson and Susan Cole)
•We are way ahead of the curve with SERVING locally and internationally! We recommitted to over $62,000
•Planning on 2-3 International Projects SOON
BOARD Highlights - January 17, 2022
FUNDRAISING
Committed focus to:
Attendees
2. Sponsors and Donors
3. Auction Items
4. Greeters Giving
5. Broadcast Platform
Want all 63 members to register, invite friends, bid and have fun!!

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

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

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

Program

Barbara McChesney reminded us of her mission to eliminate single-use plastic and her involvement with ESRAG. She did a great job of introducing Salvador Ricci, a member of District 5130 and current area governor. Salvador shared his energy in fixing the environment through his river cleanup projects, which included the Russian River.  He shared a video on how easy it is for pollution to collect, and the importance of having Rotary and its resources to repair the damage pollution causes.
Salvador Rico:  Rotarian for over 12 years and is a member of the Rotary club of South Ukiah.  He has been a passionate champion of keeping our rivers clean since his first project in 2009.  Since then, he has helped start river clean-up projects with the support of rotary clubs internationally.  He has presented his River Ameca in Mexico clean-up project to the Mexican Consular General and representative to the UN. He is a past president and Paul Harris fellow.  He is the father of five and owner of Alliance Auto in Ukiah.

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

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

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

Gert-Jan Dommelen: Co-founder of the End Plastic Soup global environment initiative to solve and prevent plastic pollution. His experience includes program manager and consulting leader at IBM corporation and he is a Program Manager and Business Transformation consultant.  He left his job with IBM to devote full time efforts to End Plastic Soup.  He has a successful track record in the financial, public, healthcare and industrial sectors and a deep understanding of business alignment and technology adoption to meet corporate objectives and timelines. Leader with vision and execution drive, delivering transformation programs with a strong focus on quality control, the value for all stakeholders including long term business benefits. Gert-Jan is passionate about circular economy, next generation living, learning and building a future of inclusiveness. He is a Paul Harris fellow with Rotary International and honored Member of the Dutch Royal Order of Oranje Nassau.

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

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

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

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

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

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

01/18/22


COVID UPDATE:

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

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

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

               Our State is now requiring masks to be worn indoors.   California is also recommending travelers who visit or return to California to get tested within 5 days of their arrival and the Federal government is imposing stricter regulations for testing when flying.    Testing can be difficult to find, but check for pop up clinics daily and I do offer testing at my office with an appointment.   Call us at 707-546-8773 if you are having any issues finding a test site.

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


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

Deaths:                426   (last week 421)    Please continue to honor those we have lost by encouraging those you know who have not become vaccinated, to get their COVID shot, get a booster and their flu shot.
Do your utmost best to shelter at home as much as you can and help our community stop this current surge!   Do not go to an Emergency Room (ER) unless it is truly an emergency as you are impacting medical care for those who really need it and you do chance exposure.   Test if you have symptoms

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

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

Vaccination information….  As of January 16th, 2022,   956,677  doses of vaccination have been given to residents in Sonoma County.  (last week 938,476).     78% of our population 5 years and older  (5-11 year olds have now been approved and are counted in the population vaccinated or not)  are fully vaccinated and approximately 8% have received at least 1 dose.     
MASKS:               Please do not use your cloth masks -   Omicron is highly contagious and will get through.   Switch to surgical mask, KN95 or the N95.   If you must continue to use your cloth masks, then please use two and double up.    This will help with the spread of this fast spreading variant.   The CDC is also recommending if you use a surgical mask to wear a cloth mask over it, thereby making a tighter seal.   Fortunately, Omicron does not seem to attack the lungs like the Delta variant but instead causes more of a respiratory illness.
                There are now new requirements on testing before flying – our government has mandated within 24 hrs of a flight and more countries are requiring testing to travel in or out.    If you are traveling, please ensure you check with your airlines to see what the requirements are before you leave.   The State is also suggesting that anyone traveling when you return to test 3-5 days after your return.   Isolation requirements for those positive but asymptomatic, fully vaccinated and boosted have been decreased to 5 days, unless you are still symptomatic on day 5.   If you are then you should continue to isolate or stay home for the full 10 days.
Get your booster if you are eligible!  It is highly recommended to give your immune system a boost.  Also get your Flu vaccine as we do not want citizens coming down with the flu.   This not only compromises their immune systems, but can also weaken their lungs.  We need to keep our beds hospital beds free to those really sick and help our limited medical staff ready to help those with COVID and not have our county  residents admitted with the flu.
Stay home if you are able and stay away from groups as much as possible as this Omicron goes through our community.   Be cautious,  Mask up, get your booster, your flu shot and just be careful as we learn to live with this virus……..
Please know that I am always available to answer questions, help with scheduling appointment, providing a test or even FIT testing you for a N95 mask so that it fits properly.
Thanks
 
Di
 

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

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

Pledge of Allegiance - John Hackenburg

Guests:           

• John Nelson - husband of Past President Sue Nelson
• Grace Curtin-Fiano - Assistant Principle, WHS
• Marie Ganister - Culinary Teacher & CTE Coordinator, WHS
• John Brito - CTE teacher, WHS

Rotary Moment: “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn” (Benjamin Franklin)
Rotarian of the Month - Chris Landwehr. Congratulations Chris for all that you do and have done

Announcements:

• Wally Krutz - Castañeda’s Market is hosting a Paella Pick-Up on Jan 19th to support victims of the recent Boulder Creek Fires. Please go get some delicious grub and help some people going through pain many of us are all too familiar with.
• Ed Turner - $25,007.93 donated to Windsor Rotary Community Foundation from the estate of Carl Wiuff
• Sue Nelson - We will be returning to Zoom ONLY for at least the next 2 meetings.

Brian Ling told us how the lack of shop classes in Sonoma County ended up sinking his business, Reliance Trailers, Cotati - a business with 90 employees as a way of underscoring the importance of programs like Windsor High School’s Welding Classes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

01/11/22


COVID UPDATE:

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

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

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

               Our State is now requiring masks to be worn indoors.   California is also recommending travelers who visit or return to California to get tested within 5 days of their arrival and the Federal government is imposing stricter regulations for testing when flying.    Testing can be difficult to find, but check for pop up clinics daily and I do offer testing at my office with an appointment.   Call us at 707-546-8773 if you are having any issues finding a test site.

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

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

Deaths:                421   (last week 418)    Please continue to honor those we have lost by encouraging those you know who have not become vaccinated, to get their COVID shot, get a booster and their flu shot.
Do your utmost best to shelter at home as much as you can and help our community stop this current surge!   Do not go to an Emergency Room (ER) unless it is truly an emergency as you are impacting medical care for those who really need it and you do chance exposure.  

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

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

Vaccination information….  As of January 9th, 2022,   938,476  doses of vaccination have been given to residents in Sonoma County.  (last week 917,953).     78% of our population 5 years and older  (5-11 year olds have now been approved and are counted in the population vaccinated or not)  are fully vaccinated and approximately 8% have received at least 1 dose.     Providers in Sonoma County are giving shots to our 5-11 year olds and are also providing Boosters for anyone over 18, but we are not seeing large numbers seeking vaccinations yet. 
MASKS:               Please do not use your cloth masks -   Omicron is highly contagious and will get through.   Switch to surgical mask, KN95 or the N95.   If you must continue to use your cloth masks, then please use two and double up.    This will help with the spread of this fast spreading variant.   Fortunately it does not seem to attack the lungs like the Delta variant but instead causes more of a respiratory illness.

                There are now new requirements on testing before flying – our government has mandated within 24 hrs of a flight and more countries are requiring testing to travel in or out.    If you are traveling, please ensure you check with your airlines to see what the requirements are before you leave.   The State is also suggesting that anyone traveling when you return to test 3-5 days after your return.   Isolation requirements for those positive but asymptomatic, fully vaccinated and boosted have been decreased to 5 days, unless you are still symptomatic on day 5.   If you are then you should continue to isolate or stay home for the full 10 days.

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

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

Thanks
 
Di

A New Year for our Rotary Club!   We were led into the New Year by the Ukelele Club of Healdsburg and our own President, Pam Moulton.

Our meeting was called to order by President Pam who let us know that in Rotary "they say the 3 most important meetings of the year are:  The first meeting, the second meeting (because everyone expects the 1st meeting to be good) and the First Meeting of the Year..... so here goes!"

Pledge of Allegiance - Mitch Grandi

Guests:   Ukelele Group of Healdsburg - Dave, Tina, Gail, Steve, Taddeus, Karen and Pam Moulton
               John Nelson, husband of Past President Sue Nelson
               Sally Spangler, sister of Carol Martin

Song:   "Oh, What a beautiful Rotary Morning" - great job everyone

Rotary Moment: Several of our members shared with us what their Rotary Moment was, commitment and goals for 2022  - seems we may have an Interact Club if all goes well......

Rotarian of the Month - drum roll please..... Chris Landwehr. Congratulations Chris for all that you do and have done

Announcements:
      Sue Nelson and Susan Cole - Next week's meeting will be held at the Windsor High School in the Welding Facility.   If you want to see why our committee selected them to be our major beneficiary, just email Sue Nelson or Susan Cole to read their beautifully written application with letters of support. There will be no breakfast and no charge for the meeting. Coffee and rolls will be supplied. Park in the North Parking Lot at the end near the Gym. Hoping to have someone directing us.

     Wally Krutz - he will provide us DACdb classes - they will start on the 18th after our meeting

      Di Brabetz, RN CPNP PHN - shared with the Club that the CDC and Public Health are discouraging use of cloth masks and instead recommend surgical masks, KN95 or N95 masks as the droplets of the Omnicron variant will penetrate through a cloth mask. If you need to use a cloth mask, double them up. Di brought surgical masks for anyone who needs them (purple, of course!) and they will be on the table with Ed and Carol.

     Joan Mora - next Social will be on the 20th at Mengler Tasting Room - details to follow.

     President Pam shared with us that our Laura Buhrer lost her mother on New Year's Eve.  
 

• We established monthly themes for our meeting 
• She established a "policy" that any of us who travel should bring her back something - she will be auctioning off some of her items and donate the money to Polio Plus
• Our new website is up and running
• We gave toys to kids for Christmas
• Our Club participated in the Salvation Army Bell Ringing in honor of Dick Bishop
• We began sharing our “Rotary Moments”
• “Passport Program” (brain child of our Past President) has begun and we are up to our goal of 62 members
• Socials began again   

Recognitions:  Doug Williams
       Fire Service – still pending
       Law Enforcement
       Scholarships – Tom Hassur has had to step out – will need a Chair
       Friends of Rotary – need to plan a breakfast
       Student of the Year – Pegi Ball
       Student of the Month – Daniel Myers has done a great job!
       Vet Recognition – thanks Mike Merrill
       Teacher of the Year – Doug shared he had the privilege of meeting with Ken Moulton and we will probably do this in May

Treasurer:  Carol Martin and Ed Turner
Quite the Vaudeville Act, they entertained us with their “Choose the Money Bucket”!  Three Enhancements made……
#1 “Skippy” – we have named our terminal processor (for credit card transactions) and Skippy seems happier….
#2  WRCF now we have website giving – handouts made available with info
#3  Blue bucket – a new updated option that we can pay online for our breakfasts as well as donations.

FundRaiser:  Kurt Mitchler and Bill Conklin
Our Major beneficiary is the Windsor High School Welding Facility

1.  Need sponsors – Call Maureen Merrill at 484-0320 if you have ideas and she will facilitate contact with them.  Already have some $1000 level sponsors in Maureen, Kurt, Bill, Leah – thank you. And Survivor CPR is donating $500.
2.  Live Auction – Barbara McChesney. Mike McGuire will be our Auctioneer again. Have Di’s Casa Morada in Mexico for a week. Bagpipes and Brews. Italian Villa. Food events so far………….   Thanks to everyone
3. “Virtual Tables” – Past President Renee Hyde discussed the idea of inviting small groups into your home to do a social/dinner party and participate together in the event and auction.   Talk it up, have your group like we were still doing this live.

Club Operations:  Chris Landwehr
Chris thrilled us with his magic act of a blank piece of paper in the hat and 'poof', we have our Weekly Assignments for the next months…  This includes, Room Set up, Greeter, Inspiration, Song Leader, Scribe, A-V Set up and Zoom Team. Meeting assignments – we were reminded that IF you cannot keep your commitment, it is your responsibility to find someone to take it for you.

Environmental:  Barbara McChesney
She needs other members to join her – passionate about elimination of single use plastics. Showed us a short video of “Plastic Soup info”. Will be having a speaker later this month from the Netherlands

Training:  Michael Juric (MJ)
Discussed training for Presidents and Governors. Has  4 Strategic Priorities:

• Increase our impact 
• Enhance participant engagement  
• Expand our reach  
• Increase our ability to adapt

Rotary’s Vision Statement:  “Together we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change across the globe in our communities and in ourselves”!

Youth Services:  Pegi Ball
She discussed some of our activities such as WHS Student of the Month (now of the Year as we choose a student from each core ongoing).
Cool Kids Camp, Girls’ State and Youth Exchange
                Youth Exchange – we have 2 students that will be outgoing and had 3 students apply for our short-term exchange program

International and Club Service:  Susan Cole and Sue Nelson
Celebrate some of our victories……..
                Wasteless Windsor - District Matching Grant
                Truckers Against Human Trafficking
                Greenville, CA Fire Relief
                Windsor Girls Softball Equipment Bags
                Windsor High School Girls Athletic Program
                Santa Tim
                North Bay Met Academy Water Catchment         
                Windsor Community Holiday Food and Toy Drive
                Peruvian Water Project (Engineers without Borders)
                Haiti Earthquake Relief

Give a huge round of applause for all that our small club has accomplished and will continue to accomplish.   Thanks to everyone!!!!

Next Meeting:   Tuesday, January 11^th at 7:15 am at Windsor High School Welding Facility

President Pam ended with sharing the definition of Commitment:  “A Noun  - the little choices everyday that we make which lead to the final results that we are striving for!”

The meeting was adjourned………………….

COVID UPDATE from Diane Brabetz:

               FDA AUTHORIZES BOOSTERS FOR YOUTHS, AGES 12-15!    FDA also shortened to 5 months the time required between 2^nd dose and ability to be given the Booster.  

OMICRON cases are here in Sonoma County!  Epidemiologists continue to warn us against an increase in COVID and continued spread if we do not get people vaccinated and boosted.   If you have not gotten your booster, please find an appointment and get one now to protect yourself. Also consider getting your flu shot and encourage those you know who have not been vaccinated, to get theirs now.  Let me know if you have issues with finding appointments.   I can and will help!

               Our State is now requiring masks to be worn indoors.   This mask mandate was put back into place because the per capita rate of new coronavirus cases jumped. This means that anyone, regardless of vaccination status must be wearing a mask in all public indoor venues. California has also mandated testing requirements for 1000 or more people attending indoor events to have a negative test within 1-2 days  before the event. The State is also recommending travelers who visit or return to California to get tested within 5 days of their arrival and the Federal government is imposing stricter regulations for testing when flying.    Testing can be difficult to find, but check for pop-up clinics daily and I do offer testing at my office with an appointment.

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

Total Cases: 46,745* (2 weeks ago 44,091), Recovered: 43,136 (2 weeks ago 42,253), Active Cases: 3,191* (2 weeks ago 1,422)    ***Please note this huge increase!!!!  We continue to climb***

Deaths: 418   (2 weeks ago 416)  Please continue to honor those we have lost by encouraging those you know who have not become vaccinated, to get their COVID shot, get a booster and their flu shot. Help us stop the surge and keep our residents safe….   Fortunately, this Omicron does not seem to be as deadly as Delta but more contagious.  

New Cases: 1,994  cases this past week (2 weeks ago 520) – this is a huge increase and demonstrates how infectious Omicron can and is.

Hospitalized: 29 confirmed and 3 suspected (2 weeks ago 30 confirmed and 5 suspected)     

Vaccination information….  As of January 2^nd, 2022, 917,953  doses of vaccination have been given to residents in Sonoma County. (2 weeks ago 885,527).  77% of our population 5 years and older  (5-11 year olds have now been approved and are counted in the population vaccinated or not)  are fully vaccinated and approximately 8% have received at least 1 dose.   Providers in Sonoma County are giving shots to our 5-11 year olds and are also providing Boosters for anyone over 18, but we are not seeing large numbers seeking vaccinations yet. 
MASKS: It is now recommended to not use cloth masks as the droplets of the virus can penetrate them. Omicron is highly contagious and will get through.   It is recommended that you use a surgical mask, KN95 or the N95. If you continue to use your cloth masks, then please use two and double up. This will help with the spread of this fast spreading variant. Fortunately it does not seem to attack the lungs like the Delta variant but instead causes more of a respiratory illness.

There are now new requirements on testing before flying – our government has mandated within 24 hrs of a flight and more countries are requiring testing to travel in or out.  If you are traveling, please ensure you check with your airlines to see what the requirements are before you leave. We continue to see breakthrough cases of COVID, but most people who have been diagnosed with a breakthrough are either asymptomatic (which means they are infectious and can spread it without knowing) or are mildly sick.   This is an indication of how well the vaccines are working.  The State is also suggesting that anyone traveling when you return to test 3-5 days after your return.  Isolation requirements for those positive but asymptomatic, fully vaccinated and boosted have been decreased to 5 days (from the previous 10 days)  People who are symptomatic should isolate until asymptomatic and check with Public Health or their Physician as to their safe return to work.

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

So, I hope your Holidays were all that you wanted, that you were cautious and that if you were around groups of others, you will test.  Mask up, get your booster, your flu shot and just be careful as we learn to live with this virus.   Please remember, if you are in a meeting indoors, remove your mask only to eat and drink and then replace it immediately!  Help protect the ones you love!

Please know that I am always available to answer questions, help with scheduling appointments, providing a test or even FIT testing you for a N95 mask so that it fits properly.
Thanks, Di
 



 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Merry Christmas to all and to all a Good Night!

DIANE'S COVID UPDATE:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks
 
Di

 

7:30 am John Hackenburg called our meeting together as our Visiting President for the day.    Welcome to all things Rotary Foundation this morning!!!
President John reminded us all to wear our masks when not eating or drinking and then we were led in the Pledge of Allegiance.

After all of us joining in song, we then had an introduction of visiting Rotarians with quite a few today in attendance ….
Visitors – Jean Hackenburg – Rotary wife

Announcements:

A special thanks was given to John How for hosting the Rotary Christmas party and to the committee who helped to put it together.  

Annual Fundraiser:  Kurt Mitchler and Bill Conklin, our Chairs for the 2022 Fundraiser discussed the decision to change our fundraising event to a virtual one again given the uncertainty of where we will be with the coronavirus. It was felt that it would be safer and we could still reach our goal of fundraising for the year. Renee Hyde reminded everyone that we should throw small “watch parties” and develop a sense of excitement and giving that night.  
They also mentioned our January 11^th meeting will be held at the High School in the Welding Center, our primary goal for fund raising this year.   Reminders will be sent out as we get closer.
Dick Bishop Salvation Army Bell Ringing:  Bill Bolster put out a plea for help for this Saturday, Dec. 18^th for bell ringing. Contact Bill if you can help.
Exchange Student Program: Bill Bolster reported that they interviewed 3 worthy applicants for the Rotary Exchange Program and did select someone.   More to follow……………
Program:

As today is all about Rotary Foundation, we started with….

1. Windsor Rotary Community Foundation (or as many of us long time Rotarians used to call it “the Carl and Ed fund….”)   Brian Ling shared with us the Mission of the Windsor Rotary Community Foundation and some of our history in starting this. Our first fundraiser for our new Windsor Rotary Club was the Balloon Fest and because of this, we set up a 501(c)(3) in order to accept funds. In the year 2000, we changed this to the WRCF (Windsor Rotary Community Foundation) and used this 501(c)(3) for this.  The Board of Director of the Windsor Rotary Club plus one became the leadership for this.   This was the brainchild of our Past President, Carl Wiuff who saw the need for us to invest monies and be able to use the earnings and interest to sustain our projects.   Carl, along with our Treasurer Ed Turner, helped to set this up and keep it going with donations from the Club.  The “Plus One” of the leadership for years was Carl who then passed that along to Brian Ling before he died.

• Our Endowment Fund now sits at $670,000 - thanks to a large donation from Glen Sugden, a former member, and many members who have generously given donations over the years.
• Our Current Projects Account is where our fundraising monies go
• The Ken Moulton Scholarship Fund…… to name a few

 

2.  Major Donor Awards: David Mark-Raymond was introduced by President John. David is the 5130 District Endowment Chair has been since 2009. He has attended multiple Festival of Brotherhoods and was awarded a Citation for Meritorious Service by our Rotary District (only 8 have been presented in our District). David then informed us of what it meant to be a Major Donor ($10,000 of giving) and Maureen and Mike Merrill were asked to come up to the podium. Kathy Flamson thanked them for their contributions and what it means to Rotary and those projects we support. John Hackenburg and Di Brabetz, Co-chairs for Foundation then had the pleasure of presenting Major Donor pins to each of them and our Club gave them a round of applause.
3. Rotary Foundation – what does this mean to you and other Rotarians? Some of the answers from our Club….. “Health, Hunger and Humanity”, “Monies come back to our Community”, “not a charity, but an investment”, “Curing Polio”, “Changes Lives” - Rotary’s reach is actually greater than the UN and there are 3 ways to give:
   1. Annual Fund – monies are invested for 3 years and come back after that
   2. Endowment Fund
   3. Restricted Giving – this could be for Polio or for other giving
4. Classifications of givers:

• Sustainer is someone who gives $100   (really think of becoming a sustainer if you have not already)
• Double Sustainer – gives $200
• Super Sustainer – gives $500
• Paul Harris – gives a $1000
• Major Donor - $10,000
• Arch Klumph Society - $250,000 or more
• Benefactor – provides for $1,000 in their estate
• Bequest Society – provides for $10,000 or more

Polio Eradication –
Thanks for a great meeting explaining the ways to give and what our Foundations do. Thanks to David Mark-Raymond for coming, for Kathy and Jim Flamson for sharing, and to Kevin Eisenburg for being with us. Thanks Jean Hackenburg for your support and to Maureen and Mike Merrill for your contributions. Thanks to all of those who have given to the Windsor Rotary Community Foundation and become “John Lewis Fellows”, to those who have achieved Multiple John Lewis Fellows and all of our club for their generous contributions to Paul Harris, Polio Plus and to our Endowment Fund. Without this our community would not be this rich in support or concern…

Our meeting was adjourned at 8:30 am with a “go out and do something Rotarian!”

From Your Rotary Nurse

12/14/21
COVID UPDATE:

STATE MASK MANDATE RETURNS EFFECTIVE 12/15/21  and lasts until January 15^th.   It was put back into place because the per capita rate of new coronavirus cases has jumped 47% in the past 2 weeks!   This means that anyone, regardless of vaccination status must be wearing a mask in all public indoor venues.  California has also mandated testing requirements for 1000 or more people attending indoor events to have a negative test within 1-2 days  before the event.   The State is also recommending travelers who visit or return to California to get tested within 5 days of their arrival.

We do remain vulnerable to the coronavirus with more travel happening, large gatherings occurring because of the holidays and people letting down their guard.    Boosters are available and most clinics here in Sonoma County are also offering flu vaccine at the same time in order to keep people healthy and immune systems at their peak.   There is plenty of vaccine for boosters so if you want one, schedule an appointment now!  

Visit https://socoemergency.org/events/category/pop-up-vaccine or call 707-565-4667 to get information on clinics.


Total Cases:        43,571   (last week 43,096)           Recovered:    41,924   (last week 41,623)             Active Cases: 1231   (last week 1059)        ***Please note this increase in one week!!!!***
Deaths:                414   (last week 414)    Please continue to honor those we have lost by encouraging those you know who have not become vaccinated, to get their COVID shot, get a booster and their flu shot.
New Cases:         475 new cases this past week   (last week 395)
Hospitalized:        28 confirmed and 3 suspected    (last week 15 confirmed and 9 suspected)    

Vaccination information….  As of Dec. 12th,  863,288  doses of vaccination have been given to residents in Sonoma County. (last week 837,879).     75% of our population 5 years and older  (5-11 year olds have now been approved and are counted in the population vaccinated or not)  are fully vaccinated and approximately 9% have received at least 1 dose.     Providers in Sonoma County are giving shots to our 5-11 year olds and are also providing Boosters for anyone over 18, but we are not seeing large numbers seeking vaccinations yet. 

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

If you have not gotten a booster and are in a group that can, it is highly recommended to give your immune system a boost.  Also get your Flu vaccine as we do not want citizens coming down with the flu.   This not only compromises their immune systems, but can also weaken their lungs.  We need to keep our beds hospital beds free to those really sick and help our limited medical staff ready to help those with COVID and not have our county  residents admitted with the flu.
So, please continue to wear your masks, be aware of your surroundings and even outside, if you are in crowded situations, mask up!   Please remember, if you are in a meeting indoors, remove your mask only to eat and drink and then replace it immediately!    Avoid large groups during this holiday season but if you are inside with a group of people, mask up!    Be aware of others around you and mask up when you are not eating or drinking, unless you are with your immediate family or your extended “bubble”.     Wash your hands frequently, use hand sanitizer and take precautions.    The Delta variant is still out there, very virulent, ready to strike and we are now going into winter weather, flu season and more people are out and about, we need to be careful.  Plus we do not know yet what will happen with the Omnicron variant with people traveling.    We need to protect one another during this winter season of being indoors…….. Help protect the ones you love!

Thanks
 
Di
Diane Brabetz
Administrator – Owner
At Home Nursing
(707) 546-8773
(707) 546-8788  FAX
(707) 490-2627  Cell
athome@sonic.net
 


 

President Pam called our meeting to order at 7:30 AM.
Wally Krutz led us in the Pledge of Allegiance

Bill Arnone called on us to remember that it was 80 years ago on this day that Pearl Harbor was attacked by the Japanese.  But we weren’t going to sing about that.   He led us in a rousing rendition of “Deck the Halls” and the club performed admirably.

Terry Andreacchi offered the club two of his Rotary moments:  first was when he attended a Rotary International Convention in Philadelphia.  He felt as if the whole world was there – people from all parts of the world, all dressed in different ways and coming together for Rotary.  He said it was “hair raising”.   His second moment was at a District Conference where he was representing the San Carlos Rotary.  And the whole event was about the people in the room:  “friends and fellowship”.   That’s what Rotary means to him.

Guests of Rotarians today were:
Dee Schweitzer, our speaker, about the Sonoma County Grand Jury
Charlie Johnson, representing the Windsor Girls Softball Team

President Pam then announced and recognized our December Rotarian of the Month.  She said our December honoree was a longstanding member in the Club, Past President, big skier, a Paul Harris Fellow, a sustaining member and has served on several Club and District Committees, both in the areas of Youth and Membership.  She has been a long-standing part of our Rotary Youth Exchange Program.  She recently hosted the brother of one of our former Youth Exchange students and provided avenues for amazing activities and contacts with other Rotarians – so much so that he now wants to move back to the states full time.  And she is Leader of the Pack at the Rotary Bar.  She is the impetus behind our Cub keeping International Service at the forefront in our Club.  And this year she created the “Passport for Success” which is creating opportunities for our new Rotarians to engage more easily and access information about Rotary and our Club at a very personal level.  Hats off to RENEE HYDE – DECEMBER ROTARIAN OF THE MONTH !!!!!

Leslie Lewis acknowledged birthdays for the following members:

Karen Ricketts, who donated to Rotary International in honor of her Dad, Jack Ricketts.   And, she also donated to the Ken Moulton Scholarship Fund, which generated the train horn whistle from Brian Ling.

Leah Hansen was recognized for her November birthday.  Leah said she had two celebratory meals for her birthday and donated to the Windsor Rotary Community Foundation (WRCF) for her birthday.

Rags was on the recognition list, but insisted that his birthday was in September!  He still donated based on his number of chickens, either 14 or 25???

President Pam announced:

Each month Rotary has a theme - a focus - we have tried to keep this in the forefront when planning our monthly meetings - to have at least ONE meeting that gives focus to the theme for that month

Last month was Foundation- we started the introduction with the purple pinky when Bob Rogers was talking about Polio.

In November - we had Greg and Lili Freitas who talked about some of the activities that the foundation is involved in - i.e. International exchanges, etc.

This month - the focus is DISEASE PREVENTION - again focus on not just POLIO but other areas in which ROTARY is involved in supporting training facilities and health camps in undeveloped countries who are also struggling with HIV/AIDS and malaria.  Financing programs and working with communities to improve drinking water and sanitation infrastructure.
We are dedicated to working with partners on an international level to reach the one in six people in the world who can't afford to pay for health care.
The world relies on Rotary to tackle these global challenges, and to set an example for others to follow.  Our Club has been active and involved in international projects such as these, supporting a clean water project in Peru this year.

President Pam announced that Sandi and Wally had a family announcement:  their daughter is engaged!  Sandi said the news came at the first of November, that they like their son-in-law-to-be, and that he has red hair!

Joan Mora announced our ROTARY CHRISTMAS PARTY– this Saturday, December 11, at John How’s home, 9951 Troon Court, Windsor, at 5:30 PM.  Members are to bring:  drinks to share, a food dish to share, and an unwrapped gift that reminds you of the Rotarian name you drew.  If you didn’t draw a name, contact Joan Mora or Sandi to receive a name.  All the gifts we bring to the Rotary Christmas party will be donated to the Windsor Toy and Food Drive, which is co-chaired by our own Robin Resendez. 

Bill Bolster rang the BIG bell – that is the Salvation Army bell – looking for more volunteers for December 11 and December 18.  Bill reminded us that there are 1.4 million Rotarians in the world who have given 19 million hours of service in the last year.  This is an impressive organization we belong to!

Sue Nelson offered a summary just to clarify all of the activities of our Club during this holiday season:

1. We are adopting Windsor families in need through teams established last week.  This is in coordination with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Sonoma/Marin.  See Sandi Krutz with your team donations of gift cards which will be delivered this Friday.
2. Our Club has donated financially to the Windsor Community Toy & Food Drive.  And, to add to our fun we are buying a toy that reminds you of a fellow Rotarian whose name you have chosen.  Bring this toy on Saturday to our Christmas party at John How’s home.  The toy should be unwrapped or in a bag and we will try to guess who the Rotarian is.  These toys will all be donated through Robin Resendez to the Community Toy and Food Drive.

Both of the above are part of our financial commitment to our community this Christmas.  But there are also hands-on activities available for us to donate our time and our hearts:

1. Bell Ringing for the Salvation Army – see Bill Bolster to sign up
2. Community Toy and Food Drive needs volunteers working to wrap gifts and work the tables to give these gifts to families.  Please go to this website to sign up and volunteer:  https://windsorfoodandtoydrive.com/volunteer/.  Volunteers are needed for this coming week and the event is December 18, 10AM to 2 PM, at Cali Calmecac.

President Pam called on Maureen Merrill to let us know about the Zone meeting she and Mike attended.   Maureen offered a basket of gifts to Pam.  Then she spoke eloquently about the RI President Shehkar Mehta discussing “Empowering Girls” program, and asking “what would you and your club do?”

Ed Turner offered this information to President Pam:  We contributed $372.50 to the WRCF last Tuesday with our breakfast donations.  Ed offered the additional $2.50 to make it an even $375 to the fund, echoed by Bill Arnone. 

President Pam recognized Diane Brabetz for her generous contributions overall for our Club, and especially for her membership in the Polio Plus Society, which earned Diane a pin and bracelet.  Special thanks to Diane for her time and offers of support to the Nations Finest home with contributions of time, expertise and medical boxes!

Also THANKS to Kurt Mitchler for donating 60 toothbrushes and tubes of toothpaste for the Nation’s Finest Home.

Sandi Krutz reviewed the Monday visit to the Nation’s Finest event and said it went “swimmingly”.  There was an emotional presentation of colors.  Local politician James Gore attended as well as a rep from Mike McGuire’s office.  There was a good deal of “pomp and circumstance”, and Rotary was acknowledged for our support.

Sue Nelson then summarized our Community Service donations which have been completed:   Your dollars through Rotary Club of Windsor have supported:

• $300 to Santa Tim
• $500 to North Bay Met Academy for water catchment systems

And now – Sue made the presentation of the check for $835 to Charlie Johnson of the Windsor Girls Softball Team for new equipment bags carrying the Rotary logo.

Bill Arnone introduced our in-person speaker, Dee Schweitzer, who is a trainer with the California Grand Jurors Association.   Dee travels throughout the state training new civil grand jurors.  She served on the Sonoma County Civil Grand Jury 2017-2018 term, and as Foreperson during the 2018-2019 term. 

----------------------
Dee has given us links to the following - click any one to access it:

The video she was trying to show.  Agents of Change 
Grand Jury Application
Grand Jury Flyer
Grand Jury Complaint
----------------------

Dee gave us an interesting and informative presentation about the civil grand jury.  She began with the tongue-in-cheek quote from Tom Wolfe’s “Bonfire of the Vanities” that “the District Attorney could get a Grand Jury to indict a ham sandwich.” 

She explained the difference between a criminal and civil grand jury – civil grand jurors serve as their own investigators as well as jurors.  She offered the criteria to apply for the grand jury, described the “super majority” and what it means, as well as the strict confidentiality of the grand jury.  And, she discussed the significance of the final report published every year by the grand jury.  For more info, and to read the reports of our Sonoma County Grand Jury, go to http://sonoma.courts.ca.gov/info/administration/grand-jury

President Pam ended the meeting with this thought from William James Mayo, namesake of the clinic:
“The aim of medicine is to prevent disease and to prolong life.  The idea of medicine is to eliminate the need of a physician.”
 

President Pam Moulton rang the bell at 7:30 and ask our newest member to be, Londa, to lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance.

With the help of Julie Andrews we attempted singing a few bars of “Getting to Know You”, thankfully President Pam took mercy and cut it short.

Bill Conklin & Kurt Mitchler gave a brief description of our 2022 major beneficiary, Welding Program at Windsor High School. Rotary funding will provide a 30x30 paved carport area creating a safe space for the class, repaving of the area and funding to allow the students to design & fabricate a gate to complete the existing fencing.  The gate will display the Rotary Logo.
Bill & Kurt shared a video on the welding class with testimony from students of how important this class has been to them, the success students have had because of the class as well as the setbacks due to the pandemic barring them from gaining hands on experience.  This program will provide jobs locally for today’s students and into the future. 

Save the Date:  March 26, 2022    Major Event

We had no visiting Rotarians

Tom Boylan introduced Londa Faber for the last time; she will be inducted as a member later in the meeting.
President Pam was delighted to receive a Bubble Machine from Bill Bolster, I am pretty sure it was in the shape of Mickey Mouse. Pam is already having fun with it.

Pam also displayed the framed picture of two polar bears Susan Cole gifted her after her trip to the Artic.  
Tom Boylan, District Governor Elect.  Attended a week long Zone Meeting in Tucson Arizonia. We have all seen the pictures of him decked out in his “special suit” to celebrate the graduation of the current District Governor Elect, complete with a Mardi Gras Band, in addition to having fun and lots of attention, he stated he and wife Melody participated in 3 days of intensive training. 

In the past the Zone meeting was only open to certain leaders of Rotary, however, it is now open to all Rotarians, Tom encourage Rotarians to make a plan to attend, good place to meet other Rotarians from the district, make connections and discover opportunities that will benefit the district and clubs. 
Tom brought President Pam a piece of jewelry from Arizona that was hand made by Sylvia, a fellow Rotarian.

Bill Bolster: Dick Bishop Salvation Army Bell Ringing:  December 11 & 18^th.  Volunteers Needed signup sheet at meeting or contact Bill: billbolster@eoc-inc.com

Barbara McChesney is home from her 3 month trip, she returned with 3 flags from the Rotary Clubs she visited while away.  One in Birmingham, the largest club in the world, and very formal, one in Georgia and Tulsa, Barbara also brought President Pam a book of Best Jokes of Minnie Pearl that she purchased while visiting the Grand Ole Opry.  

Barbara’s story is a good reminder to ask for a couple of Windsor Rotary Flags to trade with clubs you have the opportunity to visit while traveling. 

Renee Hyde our membership chair was pleased to induct our 10th new member to the club this year.  Londa Faber is a Santa Rosa native and not new to Rotary she was a member of the Rotary Club in Oak Grove before returning to Sonoma County, and a Paul Harris Fellow, glad to have her.
Renee Hyde presented President Pam with Woolly Mammoth stuffed animal she brought back from visit to Mammoth Lake.
Open House @ Windsor Veterans Village:  Monday December 6^th 10am-12pm.  Please RSVP 833-468-9676 ext. 1948

Windsor Community Holiday Food & Toy Drive: Distribution Event December 18, 10am-2pm @ Cali Calmécac Language Academy.  Volunteers needed before event to wrap presents, sort food and transport both to Cali, as well as day of event to distribute food & toys. Go to https://windsorfoodandtoydrive.com/ click on “How Can I Help”.

Our thoughts are with Mike & Maureen Merrill this week as Mike recuperates from a battle with his bike.

Meeting Program:
Getting to know you: Renee Hyde
Our Christmas/Holiday party this year will be held December 11^th at the home of John How.  Staying with our practice of supporting Santa Tim & Toys for Community, as well as getting to know our members better, names of club members were placed in a hat, each member was instructed to draw a name out of the hat and purchase a toy they felt best represented that person.   Please wrap and bring present you purchased to the party 12/1, no name tag on present necessary.  It will be Fun for all.

While in team groups a good time to chat, get familiar with person whose name you drew ideas for toy to purchase.

Adopt a Family: Sandie Krutz
Sandie Krutz has been in communication with the Boys & Girls Club concerning the Christmas gift giving to families of Boys & Girls Club members in need of assistance.  “Adopt a Family”, we participated in this program last year, had great success and requested to repeat this year.
The club was broken into teams, with each team receiving the needs of one family.  Each team was to designate a leader and coordinate gift giving.  Teams are requested to have gifts at next Tuesday’s meeting 12/7.

President Pam thanked all those that work to make our meeting a success and special thanks to Brian Ling for picking up those delicious pastries. We will back to having our regular breakfast next week.

Closing quote:
“The great thing about new friends is that they bring new energy to your soul”

Amazon Smile:  A painless easy was to contribute to the:  “Windsor Rotary Community Foundation” Once you have registered with Amazon Smile and chosen the charity of your choice, Amazon does the rest. 

COVID UPDATE FROM DIANE BRABETZ:

New OMICRON variant becomes newest threat in the coronavirus pandemic!   President states the new variant is “a cause for concern, not a cause for panic!”

The United States remains vulnerable to the coronavirus that is still spreading in other parts of the US and in unvaccinated areas of the world.   With travel once again popular and borders open, it becomes a cause of concern for the CDC and Public Health that we must remain vigilant.    Boosters are available and most clinics here in Sonoma County are also offering flu vaccine at the same time in order to keep people healthy and immune systems at their peak.   There is plenty of vaccine for boosters so if you want one, schedule an appointment now!  

Visit https://socoemergency.org/events/category/pop-up-vaccine or call 707-565-4667 to get information on clinics.

Total Cases:  42,701   (2 weeks ago 42,103)
Recovered:  41,209   (2 weeks ago 40,314)
Active Cases: 1080   (2 weeks ago 1379)
Deaths:  412   (2 weeks ago 410)

Please continue to honor those we have lost by encouraging those you know who have not become vaccinated, to get their COVID shot and their flu shot.

New Cases:  295 new cases this past week      (2 weeks ago 410 new cases – the number of new cases is difficult to use as the we were closed for Thanksgiving and the weekend for testing)   
Hospitalized:  24 confirmed and 2 suspected    (last week 28 confirmed and 1 suspected)     

Vaccination information….  As of Nov. 28th,  814,148  doses of vaccination have been given to residents in Sonoma County. (2 weeks ago 781,056).     74% of our populations 5 years and older  (5-11 year olds have now been approved and are counted in the population vaccinated or not)  are fully vaccinated and approximately 8% have received at least 1 dose.     Providers in Sonoma County are giving shots to our 5-11 year olds and are also providing Boosters for anyone over 18. 

More breakthroughs are being seen in Sonoma County in the fully vaccinated because of the Delta variant which is highly contagious and opportunistic.   Most people who have been diagnosed with a breakthrough are either asymptomatic (which means they are infectious and can spread it without knowing) or are mildly sick.   This is an indication of how well the vaccines are working.   But if you have not gotten a booster and are in a group that can, it is highly recommended to give your immune system a boost.  Also get your Flu vaccine as we do not want citizens coming down with the flu.   This not only compromises their immune systems, but can also weaken their lungs.  Plus we need to keep our beds open and medical staff ready to help those with COVID and not have our residents admitted with the flu.

So, please continue to wear your masks, be aware of your surroundings and even outside, if you are in crowded situations, mask up!   Please remember, if you are in a meeting indoors, remove your mask only to eat and drink and then replace it immediately!    Be aware of others around you and mask up when you are not eating or drinking, unless you are with your immediate family or your extended “bubble”.     Wash your hands frequently, use hand sanitizer and take precautions.    The Delta variant is still out there, very virulent, ready to strike and we are now going into winter weather, flu season and more people are out and about, we need to be careful.  Plus we do not know yet what will happen with the Omnicron variant with people traveling.    We need to protect one another during this winter season of being indoors…….. Help protect the ones you love!
Thanks
 
Di
 

Rotary Club of Windsor
Meeting Notes – Tuesday, November 16, 2021                                                       Scribe:  Brian Ling

Pledge of Allegiance:  Ed Janke   Song:  This Land is Your Land (Thank you JB)

Rotary Moment:  Tom Boylan – DG Nominee Tom told us about his Rotary journey from member to President to District Involvement to Zone Involvement to District Governor Nominee.  Get ready for 2023-2024 as our home club District Governor and his theme for the year will be “We are the World – Mission Possible” in appreciation to our Past District Governor Ken Moulton.

Visiting Rotarians:  Randy Seely (SR Sunrise), Ed Janke (Rotary Club of San Jose)

Guests:  Mitch Grandi, Cathy Williams, Sandi Tucker – Nations Finest, Trevor Thompson – Nations Finest
Sheila Meehan, Londa Faber, Dev, Larry McCabe, Monica McCabe

Board Recap:
Rotarian of the Month for November:  Bill Bolster
Club Social:  Joan Mora Thursday evening Happy Hour at Barrell Brothers, look for an eblast to confirm.
Bell Ringing – Always need a couple more volunteers for bell ringing at WalMart on December 11 and December 18.  See Mike Merrill or Bill Bolster to sign up.
Foundation – Welcome Diane Brabetz to Polio Plus Society
Fundraiser Update – Kurt and Bill, March 26, 2022
Birthdays and Recognitions – John Hackenburg
Tom Boylan for his recent trip to Tucson
Jon How for his travelling and family professional successes.  Contribution to RI/Polio Plus.
Robin Resendez visited family in Idaho.
Steve Klick – Big winner in Las Vegas, went to see the Raiders (lost) and participated in a raffle (WON! $100K!!!!!!!!).  Will contribute to both Rotary Foundation and WRCF.

Anniversaries: 
New Members:  Membership Director Renee Hyde introduced for new members!
Mitch Grandi – Moved to Windsor in 1990, was in Windsor Rotary in the 90’s and now that he is retired from being a Chiropractor here in Windsor, he is rejoining our club.
Monica McCabe – Pre School Teacher career.  Here with Larry to be Professional Grandparents
Larry McCabe – Software Engineer for Medical Equipment
Dev – From Great Britain, he and his wife followed family to Windsor and is ready to start contributing to and meeting the Windsor community.
Cathy Williams – Followed her son Brian to Windsor and is joining him here at Windsor Rotary following a career in Child Protective Services.

Program Presentation – Sandy Tucker and Trevor Thompson, Nation's Finest in Santa Rosa.  

Windsor Veterans’ Village an investment in a comprehensive housing solution to our local veterans.  60 units of permanent housing plus 1 fulltime property manager, all veterans.  Multiple resources on site including case management services for their previously homeless veterans.
A special thank you to Dave and Kathy Culley at KC’s for providing free lunches to their resident veterans last week on Veterans Day.
With more than 31 locations in 15 mostly rural communities in California, Arizona, and Nevada, each year Nation's Finest provides critical services and support for over 7,000 veterans and their families.  Find more information at nationsfinest.org.
A true hero isn’t measured by the size of his strength, but by the strength of his heart.

 

Good Day fellow Rotarians and friends and family who are reading our weekly bulletin.  Today’s minutes are from TUESDAY, November 9, 2021.
Past President Ed Turner rang the bell @ 7:30am. President Pam coordinated various Past Presidents to conduct one meeting a month during her presidency year.  It has been 27 years since Ed was the Windsor Rotary President 1994-95, but he appeared calm and comfortable in the position.  Ed announced in honor of Veterans Day we would celebrate our veterans in today’s meeting.

Doug Williams lead us in Pledge of Allegiance

Celebration of Veterans:
Mike Merrill acknowledged we have had some great speakers to honor our veterans, however, it was decided our best recognition would be to hear from the veterans in our club:
I want to make my apologies in advance for any misinformation or something left out, I was so absorbed in their stories, I failed my duties of writing it down. My gratitude to you veterans.
Mike Merrill - Marine Corps:  Mike attended Justice Academy, was stationed at Camp Pendleton where he assisted & guided Marines and worked with court marshals. Mike did a tour in Vietnam outside Da Nang as Judge Advocate and in Southern Ca. as a JAD from where he retired.
Brian Williams - Marine Corps: 1996 – 2000
John Hackenburg - Naval Air: 1969 – 1996 John’s training began in Florida ending at Moffett Field in CA. In between he did 2 tours one in Japan playing chicken with Russian warships, glad he was a winner.
Scott Bonin - Navy:  Scott was trained to be a dentist while in the Navy. He interned at Balboa Hospital in SF with oral surgeons, and he discovered oral surgery was not the direction he wanted to pursue.  Scott served in Japan and San Diego in a mobile unit taking care of military personnel on ships.
Bill Bolster - Navy:  Bill joined the Navy ROTC when he attended college, he participated in “Summer Cruises” and attended Sub school, he completed 2 sets of duty, one out of Pearl Harbor and one from San Diego. He mentioned his subs were diesel powered not nuclear, there is a story about him banging the bang barge, but have to leave that for another day.
Mike Merrill concluded this portion of our Veterans recognition thanking all our Veterans for their service to the country.
We will be having a speaker in the near future to share updates on the “Windsor Veterans Village”.  Stay tuned.

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

Inspiration: Sue Nelson
Sue stated she feels lucky to have 34 years with the Rotary Club of Windsor. Sue (a charter member) originally joined Rotary for the business opportunities, however, early on, December 1987, she participated in a Toy’s for Tots “wrapping party” when she entered the room at the Airport Business Center she discovered 100’s of presents to be wrapped. She sat next to Marie Coakley, an “elderly lady”, (mid 40’s) charter member and longtime resident of Windsor. Sue relayed they talked about everything, the town, Rotary, herself & family, by the end of the event Sue realized this was more than a business opportunity, a new door was opened for her and it changed her perspective of what Rotary was all about, community, service & family. It is a moment she will not forget.

No Visiting Rotarians:
Guests of Rotarians:
Mike Martini: Taft Street Winery, Barney Kaufman: Vineyard Academy-WHS, Londa Faber.  Hopefully last visit as guest - Monica McCabe, Last visit as guest - Larry McCabe, Last visit as guest - Mitch Grandi, Last visit as guest - Dev Sodagar. Yay! returning Rotary member, Kathy Williams soon to be member. AND our guests for our recognition of Student of the Year: Student of the Year - Stephanie Melendez, Proud Mom Fanny, and English Teacher Krista Raszler, WHS.

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

Daniel Myers presented the Student of Year: Stephanie Melendez, Digital Focus
Daniel explained it is student of year, as one student is chosen from each focus area at Windsor High School to receive recognition. 
Stephanie was introduced by her AVID English teacher Krista Raszler, Ms. Raszler first met Stephanie in 10^th grade, and she noted Stephanie’s interest ranged from Star Wars to the Oakland A’s.  Ms. Raszler commented that Stephanie was a little shy in her first presentation but so pleased with her growth. She admitted she frequently calls on Stephanie to present first to display an example.  Ms. Raszler described Stephanie as: Kind, intellectually open minded, helpful to students and a pleasure to teach.
Stephanie is 17 years old, a senior attending Digital Academy at WHS, she was prepared with a written presentation that I would need actual copy to do justice.  Stephanie stated that along with her digital and academic education she had gathered Life Lessons, she sees her teachers as mentors, and role models, people she is comfortable to go to and share any situation. 
Stephanie was asked what project she was most proud of.  Stephanie responded that a full year of no in-person school was challenging, that she was proud of the development in herself but also proud of the development of other students in her classes.  Stephanie’s presentation was filled with gratitude for family, teachers and community.  
Fanny, Stephanie’s Mother expressed how proud she is of her daughter and her gratitude to Rotary for “Student of the Year” recognition and support.

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

Taft Street Winery was started in 1979 in a garage in Oakland; it was started like the renegade Bordeaux winemakers known as "Garagistes.  Taft Street Winery continues in the garagistes traditions to this day, producing limited production, handcrafted wines from select Russian River Valley vineyards.
Mike affirmed wine tastes best with friends, food, and it is free, it seems there may have been a few of these parties, with suggestions he should start a winery. Starting a winery requires money so the conversation usually ended, until one day someone stood up and ask “how much” ?
This person stated he would not invest any money if all interested partners did not also invest.  I am assuming funds were found as Taft Street Winery was founded.
Almost all businesses are started with Passion & Ignorance and faced with challenges. Happy to say 2021 will be the 40^th harvest for Taft Street Winery; we strive to stay true to Fun, Family & Friends. 
Taft Street faces same issues of all businesses; fires in August had a huge impact, & labor issues.
The backbone of the wine & hospitality business is the optimistic people in the vineyards and winery, looking forward to the next harvest.
Taft Street Winery has been a proud partner of the Windsor High School Vineyard Academy since 2011. Each year, we crush and ferment the grapes farmed by the students and help promote sales of Windsor Jaguar Zinfandel. The last release was 2018 and 2019 – 2021 is in barrels.  All work is donated, 100% of proceeds minus taxes and fees goes to Vineyard Academy.
Mike invited Barney Kaufman from Vineyard Academy to add comments. Barney stated the academy has harvested 10 tons over the past ten years, 1 ton per year; 1 ton of grapes can produce 60 cases of wine.  The Vineyard Academy has received $100,000. In proceeds, $38,000.00 has been awarded in student scholarships. 

Students of Vineyard Academy farm Old Vine Zin vineyards at Reiman Lane & Starr Rd, Windsor. It is rumored that the first planting of this vineyard was in 1850, although there are many old vines in the vineyard, it is not known if any are original planting. Volunteers, including a few Rotarians, help students with the harvest, and grapes are delivered to Taft Street Winery. Students are not involved in the fermenting or bottling process.  
The wonderful label was designed by WHS students. 
Vineyard Academy displays opportunities in wine & hospitality business, in addition to vineyard management, & winemakers, marketing, financial, HR & sales.
Several previous students are now working in the hospitality business.
JB Leep added, “It is excellent wine”

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

Respectfully submitted,
Pegi Ball

 

 

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

Rotary Moment:

Bill Bolster shared a Jack Hyde moment with some history of the Rotary Bar. Jack wrote to tell us his side of the story, including that the first two years of the “bar” were actually spent selling lemonade. The paltry sum of $500 for several years work was about to cause Jack to send a donation to the club so he could stop doing all the work, for so little return. Then the tide turned.
The Town of Windsor asked if the Rotary Club would like to sell drinks… margaritas at the booth. A new purpose unfolded in Jack’s life and we went on to create the frozen concoctions for two more years, before the margarita machine broke and we had to resort to opening a full-blown bar.
Jack’s ten years as the chief bartender helped to amass more than $195,000 that went toward out International efforts. Better still is that the bar stayed in the hands of another Hyde, Renee Hyde has spent countless hours overseeing the continued operation and the dollars keep rolling in to help fund our efforts for a better world.
Such a great story was then followed by Bill becoming the song Meister and leading us in a modified version of Wasted Away in Margaritaville. Some people claim that there’s a Bolster to blame… but we know, it’s our own damn fault.

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

Announcements:

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

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

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

Polio Plus District 5130 Commitment Letter (download - docx)

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

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

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

Program:

PDG Bob Rogers was introduced as the Zone 26 & 27 PolioPlus Chair, which is appropriate in so many ways, including that he is a survivor of polio. Bob got his start as a polio leader in Rotary when he created the event ride for polio, which raised more than $120,000, and was then matched by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. In a two-year period, Bob is credited for raising more than $220,000 to fight polio.
Our presentation included a brief history of polio and a snapshot of where we are today. Since I wasn’t prepared to take notes, I just enjoyed the fact that the wild polio virus was down to two, make that TWO, cases worldwide. There are variants of the polio virus, which are still somewhat prevalent in primarily two counties, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, but recent approvals by the Afghan Taliban have shown that they too are willing to eradicate polio when they allow vaccine providers to continue their work in Afghanistan. 
Please consider being a member of “Every Rotarian Every Year” group and sign up to make a donation to PolioPlus at EndPolioNow.org. Your donation could be the tipping point for the elimination of polio for good.

Pre-bell at the end of the meeting we heard from Buddha;
           
            Whatever you think, you become

            Whatever you feel, you attract

            Whatever you imagine, you create
 

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

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

Words by Tom Boylan, and images by Catherine Hanron.

Guests of Rotarians:

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

Monica and Gary McCabe were back for breakfast and friendship.

Kathryn Williams was sitting with her son Brian Williams

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

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

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

Announcements:

The following are the President’s notes from the meeting today:

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

The Mission of the Rotary Club of Windsor is to serve our Community and the World.
We strive to better communicate with our members and with the community to inspire and mobilize both our local and global community in health, education, and peace to create transformative change.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Program:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Mission of the Rotary Club of Windsor is to Eat, Drink, Dance and Party while making the world better.

 

Scribe: Tom Boylan Editor: Natalie Lim Introduced by: Pegi Ball

WAKE UP TO ROTARY!

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

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

Pledge of Allegiance:      Led by Tom Hassur

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

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

Visiting Rotarians:

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

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

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

Sue Nelson introduced Leo Cacciatore from Circuit Riders.

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

Special Recognition:

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

PROGRAM:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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COVID UPDATE

NEWS FLASH:

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

Total Cases:

• 40,106    (last week 39,773)

Recovered:

• 38,593    (last week  38,031)

Active Cases:

• 1115   (last week 1356)

Deaths:

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

New Cases:

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

Hospitalized:

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

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

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

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

Stay Healthy!

Di

Scribe: Brian Ling          Editor: Natalie Lim         Introduced by: Pam Moulton
Rotary Club of Windsor
Meeting Notes – Tuesday, October 5, 2021
 
Scribe:  Brian Ling
Pledge of Allegiance:  John LeCave
Song:  JB Leep, “I Can See Clearly Now”, by Johnny Nash

•     “It’s gonna be a bright bright sunshiny day!”

 
Rotary Moment:  Kurt Michler – Kurt has visited different Rotary Clubs throughout the world.  When you travel, check the Rotary app, and attend a Rotary meeting anywhere in the world.  Meet new friends that are all sharing
 
Guests:

• Mitch Grandi, retired long time Windsor resident and previous member of the Rotary Club of Windsor
• Domingo Paella, Exchange family guest from Chile.  Attended Giants and 49ers this past week. Along with a San Francisco tour with Cable Cars and Coit Tower.
• Esther Lemus, Windsor Town Council Member

 
Announcements:

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

 
PROGRAM PRESENTATION – CREATING OUR FUNDRAISER
 
President Pam reminded us with a photo collage of all of our previous fundraising events highlighting all the great fellowship that we have had and the hundreds of thousands of dollars that we have been able to raise for the community.
 
Choosing a Beneficiary:  Sue Nelson and Susan Cole are leading the Beneficiary search and we have already received 5 completed applications and numerous more are expected to be received.  Beyond just choosing a beneficiary, we want to find one that will build passion within our club to put on the best fundraiser ever.  Having a great “Why”, is so important to having a successful event.  An easy volunteer opportunity is available for our members to participate in the application review and beneficiary recommendation process.
 
Date:  April 9, 2022
Auctioneer:  Senator Mike McGuire
Co-Chairs:  Kurt Michler and Bill Conklin
 
Identify your area of interest:  Venue, Auction, Sponsorships, Marketing, Promotion, Programs
 
The club separated into 4 thinktanks to start brainstorming for our fabulous event on April 4!
 
Closing Thoughts:
 
Not only must we be good – but we must be good for something!   Henry David Thoreau
 

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

• 39,773    (last week 39,399)

Recovered:

• 38,031    (last week  37,209)

Active Cases:

• 1356   (last week 1806)

Deaths:

• 386 (last week 384)  Almost 56% of our deaths are now not a resident of senior living or skilled nursing facilities!

New Cases:

• 374 new cases this past week      (last week 324 new cases)

Hospitalized:

• 34 confirmed and 0 suspected    (last week 43 confirmed and 0 suspected)

 
Vaccination information….  As of Oct. 3rd,  698,952  residents in Sonoma County have received the vaccine (last week 689,159).     77% of our populations 12 and older are fully vaccinated and approximately 85% have received at least 1 dose.     Providers in Sonoma County have begun administering Boosters of both Pfizer and Moderna.  Booster shots are available if you were given either Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.    You are eligible for a booster if you received two (2) shots at least 6 months ago, are 65 years old, reside in a long term care setting, or are 50-64 years of age and have an underlying medical condition such as cancer, diabetes, asthma, HIV infections and heart disease, or obesity.  Also anyone 18-64 years old and at increased risk for COVID exposure and transmission because of occupational or institutional setting.  (for example – health care workers, teachers, day care staff and grocery workers)
With the FDA fully approving Pfizer vaccine and Moderna seeking approval, we continue to see employers as well as government entities and even private employers mandating the need for vaccinations.  The State of California has mandated that any provider who receives Federal funds requires that all of their employees be vaccinated by October.    They have also mandated all health care providers to become vaccinated or be terminated from employment.    All of this is being done to protect our health care workers and patients who are being treated.
Please continue to wear your masks, be aware of your surroundings and even outside, if you are in crowded situations, mask up!   Wash your hands frequently, use hand sanitizer and take precautions.    The Delta variant is out there, very virulent, ready to strike and given that we still have 15% of our citizens not vaccinated over the age of 12 and all of our young children, it still has “hosts” it can latch onto.   We need to try and manage this disease as we are not going to control it!  Consider getting your flu shot so that your immunity is up and your body is not susceptible to infection.
Thanks
 
Di