Meeting minutes for meeting held on April 22, 2025
 
The meeting was convened by President Barb with the recitation of the Four Way Test.  This was followed by an enthusiastic singing of HAPPY BIRTHDAY by JB and Renee to honor Domingo (and the other April Birthdays!)!  Dave Doht presented a statement reminding all of us to feel Lucky! There were no visiting Rotarians, however several visitors were in attendance, including: Bill Hogan (second visit), Andy Fulton (second visit), Patricia Chadwick (Principal at Mattie Washburn), Brittani Quinones (Chairperson for fundraiser), Mapi Klick (Steve Klick's wife), and Darnel and Alma Bowen (today's speakers).
 
 President Barb reviewed the environmental moment and presented a list of activities in which members could potentially participate, including a clean up (on Earth Day, April 22nd, and the Repair and Re-use fair and climate festival. On April 26th at the Huerta Gym from 1:00–4:00pm, and on April 27th, at the Farmer's Market, Pegi mentioned that there will be several activities in the name of Earth Day.
 
ANNOUNCEMENTS Bill announced the ADOPT A ROAD event that will happen on May 17th.
 
Multiple birthdays were presented and each of the members were asked by Leslie Lewis what they had done on their birthday and to whom might they like to contribute. 
$25 Domingo said that he rented a bike on his birthday and today, he brought the Club a Chocolate Cake that was being devoured at the meeting!  Randall N. turned 75, went to dinner at Sweet T's with his wife, and contributed $75 to Polio and Pam said that she had a  birthday dinner with friends, volunteered at the Healdsburg Center for the Arts gallery and took her sister to Hawaii. She also contributed $75 to the Ken Moulton Educational Foundation!
 
President Barb and Carol presented both a photo show and a financial summary of the recent fund raiser.  There are not final numbers at this time, but there is a general feeling that the event was a success!! We grossed $76,465.00.  Checks have already been written to the recipients!!! A basket was given to the club as a THANK YOU from Meals on Wheels.  It was presented by Monica to Mapi!
 
President Barb extended a huge thank you to the Fund Raising Committee with particular thanks given to the individual chairs. A shout out was given to Brittani for taking charge, to Tom Boylan for the work on the program and his job as the MC, to JB and Michael L. for all the work on the website, social media and outreach, to Catherine and Monica for working on the silent auction, to Brian Ling for getting the wine and beer, to Kurt for the work on the sponsorships, to Pam M and Mapi for the decorations, to Pegi and Mapi for the work on the food, to Susan Cole for her fabulous writing of the program ,and to Steve Klick and Vineyard Academy for the amazing paella.
 
Mapi Klick was nominated by Pam Moulton,to receive status as an honorarian Rotarian for her amazingly hard work on the fund raiser.  Pres. Barb expressed sincere thanks to Mapi for her "vision and for making the event happen!" Pres. noted that the role of being an Honorarian Rotarian is a special membership where individuals are recognized for outstanding service or contributions to the Rotary Mission.  She made note that Mapi "DOES MAKE A DIFFERENCE!!"  Thank you Mapi!
 
SPEAKER:  Alma Bower, founder and Executive Director of Nuestra Comunidad.
 
Alma introduced herself and her husband, Darnel, who is her partner in this endeavor.  Alma gave a comprehensive overview of the genesis of the organization and punctuated it with sharing a video in which she explains that her reason for starting Nuestra Comunidad (NC) was to foster a community of resiliency.  With her professional history being a 911 dispatcher, she witnessed on a firsthand basis where the needs were in order to make sure that certain groups of people are feeling safe, protected and fortified.  She said that as a dispatcher, she was highly aware of the disparity of service and support  to specific groups, including the seniors, impoverished, etc. She made note that NC has been dedicated to encouraging individuals who need direction post disaster.
 
She stated that the values of NC are Collaboration, Commitment and Community.  Her organization has been a non-profit since 2019, giving her husband Darnel credit for taking the  lead on getting non-profit status.  Alma mentioned that she left her job as a dispatcher in 2019 to go full time with NC. She reviewed the variety of programs that Nuestra Comunidad brings to the community, which include:
 
•Disaster Preparedness
•911 Awareness which is "Project Lifeline" where individuals are educated on the intent of 911. Focus has also been given to educating the students about this, as frequently it is the younger students who are calling in the emergency.
•Earthquake Early Warning which is done in both Sonoma and Humboldt counties
•Phoenix Rising, which is a Youth Leadership program teaching kids on emergency preparedness, working with first responders and bringing awareness to potential career options
•STOP the BLEED - which provides lessons on how to control bleeding in an emergency
•Nutrition with Intention - which is a six week program lesson on general health and wellness issues which are culturally sensitive
•Juntos - which encourages community members to get involved in exercise and races. These are people who generally would not participate.
•Active Community - this is a women’s basketball team.
 
Alma also talked extensively about the number of community partnerships they have formed over the last couple of years with Empire Food Bank, the local governments, including the Town of Windsor, and community groups.  As a result, she made note that they have been responsible for making sure that locations are ADA compliant.
 
She finished by highlighting the RESILIENCE Hub, which opened on October 8, 2024.  This hub is used as a center where they have ongoing training for their program, for meal distribution, for community rentals to local agencies who don't have facility to hold meetings, etc. She mentioned that they are working with the youth, the veterans and the seniors, each of which are considered vulnerable groups.
When asked about WHAT IS NEXT, Alma mentioned that she is working with Supervisor Gore on the infrastructure for their current facility at 21 Bluebird Drive.
There are five members on their team which also includes someone working in Humbold.  Essentially, they are funded by grants both from the private sector (50%) and the public (50%) and all services are free to the public. 
They can be reached at www.nc707.org
 
The meeting closed with President Barbara extending thanks to all the visitors and speakers who attended, in addition to those members who assisted in the meeting, which included, Renee as greeter, John LeCave for set up, Brian Williams for AV set up, Dave Doht for inspiration, J.B. Leep for the song, Pam Moulton for scribing and Sue Nelson for her photos!   The meeting ended at 8:30am.

Photography:  Sue Nelson April 15, 2025

Good Morning Rotary Club of Windsor.  Welcome by our Club President Barbara McChesney.

Pledge of Allegiance led by Randall Neff

Song:  Larry Mills led us in the Beatle’s “Money, That’s What I Want”

Inspiration: Michael Ragsdale. “None of us are getting out of here alive, so please stop treating yourself like an afterthought.  Eat the delicious food.  Walk in the sunshine.  Jump in the ocean.  Say the truth that you’re carrying in your heart like a hidden treasure. Be silly.  Be kind.  Be weird. There’s no time for anything else.  Do something Rotarian today!”

Visiting Rotarians: None today.

Visitors:  Bill Hogan (Past Rotarian Indiana/SF), Lydia Turrel (Cali), Jeff Lefave (WHS), Student Racquel Garcia and her mother Sonya and brother Enrique.

Student of the year: Daniel Myers introduced our program and todays awardee, Racquel Garcia in the Vineyard Academy (Business and Hospitality) Core. Jeff Lefave instructor at WHS introduced Raquel who enjoys every day at school and is easy to teach!  Raquel thanked the club for the award, is a senior, leadership through Girl Scouts including her senior project creating marketing/sales programs for the annual cookie sale, worked in restaurant and hospitality, loads of community service work and will be attending CSU Fullerton in Public Relations.

Announcements:

Vietnam Veteran Honor Flight on April 30

District conference on May 2-3.  We need to do a club display. Anybody going to the District Conference and would like to help with a display.

Rotary International “Epic Day of Service” video is available on rotary.org and Barbara showed us a brief portion of it.  Followed by our own day of service, May 17, with our annual Adopt a Road clean up along Faught Rd area. Join us Saturday, May 17, at 10am, followed by a lunchtime potluck.

JB Leep:  Volunteer opportunities:  Recycling at GranFondo; numerous events with Wasteless Windsor; and tonight at 5pm, Amy Whitely, leadership teacher at WHS, needs help with judging senior projects.

Next week we will celebrate all of our successes at the Evening in Seville and thank everyone that helped us.

Speaker:  To celebrate Earth Day, Barbara and Dave led us in a group trivia project about our environmental historical moments, recycling, plastics, and some of the leaders involved.

Barbara followed with an Environmental moment with some facts about John Muir, national leaders, and the history of the national parks.  Closed with the history of Earth Day beginning in 1970.


Thank you to: Thank you to our guests. . . . .

Greeter: Jo Timmsen
Set-up: Domingo
A/V set-up: Larry McCabe
Inspiration / Host: Mike Ragsdale
Song: Larry Mills
Scribe: Brian Ling
 

Environmental Trivia Game

1. Briefly describe in a few short words one of Margaret’s environmental moments:  Hanging clothes outside.

2. What is the name of the prominent photographer who played a crucial role in the preservation of US national parks?   Ansel Adams-See information below about Ansel

3. Who is the conservationist known as “Father of the national parks”? John Muir-See information below

4. The Rotary Club of Windsor is an ambassador for which international organization?  End Plastic Soup

5. How many dump trucks of plastic end up in the world’s waterways each day?  500______  10000______ 1500______ 2000__X____ 2500_____

6. How many plastic particles are found on average in a one liter plastic water bottle?  2,500_____  40,000 _____ 240,000 ___X___       

7. What is the name of the organization, or the movie Barbara promotes related to “Plastic Free Lunch Day”?  Cafeteria Culture or Microplastic Madness.

8. When is Earth Day?  April 22

9. What year was the first Earth Day?  1950_____ 1960_____ 1970_X____ 1980_____ (See below for more detail)
10. Who is the most famous young climate activist?  Greta Thornberg

11. What percentage of plastic do we recycle globally? 

12. Which regions have experienced the most obvious and impactful effect of global warming so far?  Tropical rainforests_______, Arctic regions ___X____ Barren deserts_______

13. Which of the following items cannot be recycled?  To-go coffee cups ___X___ magazines and newspapers ______steel cans_________

14. What percentage of donated clothing ends up in landfills or incinerators? More than 40%_____More than 60%______More than 80%___X___ See answer below.

15. Which of the following countries is a global waste management and recycling leader?  Finland_______Ireland_______Germany_______

16. Of the 5 trillion plastic bags used annually worldwide, what is the average annual use for Americans? ________

• United States: Americans use over 100 billion plastic bags each year.
• The deepest point where a plastic bag has been found is in the Mariana Trench, which is the deepest part of the ocean, at a depth of 10,898 meters (35,754 feet). This discovery highlights the extent of plastic pollution, even in the most remote and deepest parts of the planet 

• Global Usage: Approximately 5 trillion plastic bags are used worldwide each year. 
• Rate of Usage: This equates to roughly 160,000 plastic bags being used every second. 
• Per Person: That's over 700 plastic bags used annually for every person on the planet. 
• Plastic Waste: A significant portion of these bags are discarded as waste, with a large amount ending up in landfills or the environment. 
• Environmental Impact: Plastic bags are a major source of pollution, posing a threat to wildlife and ecosystems. 

Footnotes:

• Advocacy and the Sierra Club:

• Yosemite National Park and other National Parks:

• Kings Canyon National Park:

• National Park Service Commission:

• Legacy:

• Ansel Adams Wilderness and Mount Ansel Adams:

• Presidential Medal of Freedom:

• National Archives:

• Ansel Adams in the National Parks:

• Advocacy for National Parks:

• Founding the Sierra Club:

• Influencing Presidents:

• Writing and Education:

• Legacy:

John Muir's vision for protecting national parks and wilderness areas continues to inspire conservation efforts today. The National Park Service, established in 1916, was largely a result of his advocacy. 

Question #6: 
•        The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, revealed that bottled water can contain 10 to 100 times more plastic than previously estimated.
•        The researchers analyzed five samples each of three common bottled water brands and found that particle levels ranged from 110,000 to 400,000 per liter, averaging around 240,000.
•        According to the BBC, the majority of these particles were nanoplastics, with the remaining being microplastics.
•        The study also identified seven different types of plastic in the bottled water, including polyamide, PET, polyvinyl chloride, polymethyl methacrylate, and polystyrene.

Question #8: The first Earth Day was on April 22, 1970, and it was a nationwide demonstration organized by Senator Gaylord Nelson to raise awareness about environmental issues. This event is widely recognized as the start of the modern environmental movement in the United States. 

Question #14 Approximately 85% of discarded clothing in the U.S. ends up in landfills. This is equivalent to an estimated 11.3 million tons of textile waste annually, which is about 81.5 pounds per person. A significant portion of this waste is due to fast fashion trends and the use of non-recyclable synthetic materials like polyester. 

April 8, 2025

Good morning Rotary Club of Windsor.

4 way Test

Song: Bill Bolster presented Mapi to sing Bem, Bem, Maria!

Inspiration: Robin Schifando – If you fail, never give up! FAIL = First Attempt In Learning!

Visiting Rotarians:
Robin and wife Gene Mayberry – Sebastopol Rotary

Visitors:
Heather Kristensen – principal BPL
Student Harrison Smith
Caleb McPhail
Harrison’s parents James and Jacqueline
Mapi Klick

Environmental moment: News from Seville Spain. It's been raining non-stop in the south of Spain, where people traditionally hang their laundry to dry in the sun. In Seville, many are going to the local laundromat to use dryers for the first time. They are being forced to go to laundromats for the first time. The price of energy in Spain has hit record highs in recent years. Dryers consume a lot of energy, and you certainly cannot beat the price of drying your laundry in the sun. But it's also a tradition. Another civilian tradition is spending time outdoors. People in Seville like to go out for tapas but with the rain, revenue in local venues is down 85%.

Brian Ling:

• Paul Harris award – 33 club members are Paul Harris!
  • First time awardee – Daniel Myers!
  • Paul Harris plus 6 – Tom Boylan! He’s in the RED!

• Student of the year
  • Harrison Smith
• Caleb – teacher – his kids were Rotary exchange students! Son went to Taiwan and daughter went to Italy! He teaches Build Core – for students that are looking to go into the trades. Hands on experience along with what a day would look like in the trades! Likes to focus on intangible skills – showing up on time, ready to work, teamwork, communication, doing the right thing even when it is the hard thing to do. Harrison exemplifies all of the things they were looking for. He is kind, empathetic, hard working.
• Harrison – Thank you for the invite and for having him! He is enjoying the building program and learning about all of the things needed in this trade. Enrolled in builders trade and goes out every week to learn something new – including hand tools and CPR, also just learned OSHA compliance and was able to drive a forklift. This Saturday will learn concrete pouring and working with rebar. He will be going to the JC next year to get his associates.

Pegi: Power of One – Youth Exchange coming from Uganda and she received a nice letter with his appreciation. He would not have been able to come if it had not been for us helping fund. Not sending anyone this year, still looking for host families!
Monument Announcement - Steve: We got the rock for our monument! It was lifted and placed in truck thanks to Pearson Explorations! Will be placed at the entrance to Foothill Park! Ceremony in a couple of months.

Ed: No such thing as a free lunch, but there is a free breakfast! No charge for breakfast today! Charlies had a staffing shortage, so we had pastries and fruit, and the club is picking up the tab!

Heather Kristensen, Principal Big Picture Learning will be present. Heather is here because we are funding a grant for them to create a culinary learning classroom. Basic skills of teaching how to cook! Presented with a big check for $2,200 to help create this classroom! Also presented with a sign to display!
BPL – where passion meets purpose! Has been around for 30 years and puts students at the center of their learning through internships and interest-based learning. Looking for independence and helping students build relationships through internships. 88% of the students have an LTI (Learning through internship) and some are dual enrolled in SR JC!

Announcements:
Thank you to Larry for leading the meeting in my absence!
Speaking of Interact, Dave gave a great presentation to the Interact students about compound interest and starting early.  Ask him later about his Jack and Jill example and the chessboard video.
Monument announcement: Steve Klick

Fundraiser:  A special shout out to Jason Black for his fabulous inspiration complete with evening in Seville costume. Visit to Food for Thought. Carol – only 8 more tickets to sell! Last year online bidding – this year all in person! Let Carol know if you want to sit with a certain group. Mapi - Set-up – 12:00 on Saturday at Huerta Gym – doors open for check-in at 5pm

Speaker:  Pegi will introduce Robin and Jean Maybury who will present about Cool Kids Camp.
Our club has been involved with Cool Kids Camp since 2000.
Thank you for inviting us and for the support over the years for this very special program. This program has run since 2000 and started in Westminster woods. Program to aid in healing for children, ages 8-12, who have been exposed to family violence or physically, sexually or emotionally abused. Referrals from family counselors and therapists. Camp created by Sebastopol Rotary Club; concept developed by Rotarian Tom Farrell. 2007 the camp moved to Cloverleaf Ranch. John Strong collaborator for many years as well. This camp is 6- or 13-day residential camp with zipline, horses, and lots of things to do. The camp is 160 acres. Normal cost is $1,500/week but get a discounted rate to help kids attend.

Tom – how far reaching is the program?
Jean – deal where there is the most need, some of the larger towns. Deal with 8-9 agencies. CASA deal with all kids in Sonoma County but get most from 101 corridor. This year we have 18 spots, and they are almost already full.

The names of the kids attending are kept confidential, so no information is shared on what areas kids are attending from. Clubs won’t know if there are kids going from their own area.

Monica: Once was at 40 kids and now down to 18.
Robin: The pandemic and the fires impacted the numbers, its unfortunately not because the need is less.
Monica: What does Cloverleaf do the rest of the year?
Robin: They do camps and are a horse-riding facility. They offer lessons and have been doing that for a very long time.

Maureen: In 1999 our district governor wanted to have a project that all could go in on which was Cool Kids Camp. The first time this has been done where all districts coordinated. That governor was our very own Mike Merrill! Would like to sponsor a child in his name for the coming year?

If anyone would like to visit – Jean and Robin can make that happen. Need to work with the ranch staff so reach out to let them know.

Pegi: Windsor Rotary does sponsor 2 students every year.

Tom: Tom made a huge drive to do something about Mental Health when he was governor. Created Nor-Cal Mental Health to help understand the resources and where to go to get help. Take a moment for Susan Cole’s 16-year-old grandson that committed suicide. Reach out to Susan and send her your love.

Thank you to: our speaker Thank you to our guests. . . . .

Jean and Robin Maybury
Student Harrison Smith and family
Mapi Klick
Heather Kristensen
Caleb McPhail

Greeter: Kristine Siebert
Set-up: Steve Klick
A/V set-up: Larry McCabe
Inspiration / Host: Robin Schifando 
Song: Bill Bolster
Scribe: Alison Huber
Photography: Sue Nelson

April l, 2025 Rotary Scribe Minutes
President Barbara McChesney called the meeting to order at 7:30.
Joan Mora led the Pledge of Allegiance
Geoff Harrison led the song, “This Land is Your Land” and encouraged Rotarians to go out and see it!
Jason Black delivered a wonderful inspiration about our beneficiaries.
Visitors: Paul Krier, Mike Lockwood, Andy Fulton, Jennifer Ramirez Lopez, Elias and Patricia Lopez, Stephanie and Vanessa Lopez, Geoff Vinson, Angela West, Dennis Wilkinson.
Environmental moment: skipped due to full agenda
Brian Ling led the induction of the new members Dennis Wilkinson and Matt Barrington (D & S Awards)


Student of the Year: Jeff Benson introduced Jennifer Ramirez Lopez as student of the year from the Community Health Academy of Windsor High School

Announcements:
*Evan and Gael have been chosen as camp counselors for RYLA
*Carol Martin spoke about the auction items for the “Night in Seville”
*J.B. Leap announced a dinner on April 4^th
*Monica McCabe spoke about the items for silent auction for “Night in Seville”

Our Speaker: Colt Briner, published author of “The Race to Relevance”, explained that although salaries have increased over the years that expenses have increased more. After working at MarCom for 20 years, he stressed the need to have a “sense of purpose” in the workplace.
He presented a 5-step way to guide employees:

1. Have a clear and visionary purpose with present day relevance
2. Inspire and motivate employees
3. Leaders must model the purpose
4. Business objectives goals and measures should be tied to purpose
5. Strategic discussions must be guided by our purpose

Barbara thanked:
Greeter: Jim Curry
Set-up: Kurt Mitchler
A/V Set-up: Randall Neff
Inspiration/Host: Jason Black
Song: Geoff Harrison
Scribe: Margaret Johnson
Photography: Sue Nelson

The meeting was adjourned at 8:30.

Respectfully submitted,
Scribe for a day,
Margaret Johnson

Rotary Club of Windsor Tuesday March 25, 2025
This morning’s Windsor Rotary Club meeting was filled with inspiring stories and wonderful moments! In the absence of Barbara McChesney, our President Elect Larry McCabe stepped in as Guest President, leading us through a memorable session.


Four Way Test: Lead by Randall Neff
INSPIRATION:     Mitch Grandi read three Mark Twain quotes, amazing how so many quotes of Mark Twain are timeless.
SONG:  Susan Cole chose a song to bring attention to our upcoming fundraiser “Lady of Span”
No VISITING ROTARIANS: 
GUESTS OF ROTARIANS:     student of year; Dalia Guzman and her Family, Danielle Buckman and her Daughter Ryla, an old friend and soon to be Rotarian, Dennis Wilkinson, and Mapi Klick, Steve Klicks wife but more importantly one of the hardest working volunteers for our Evening in Seville.  Thank you Mapi!                                                                                                                 
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Evening in Seville is less than 15 days away, we need additional silent and live auction items, and more ticket sales or Sponsors, the time in NOW to turn in your Live auction items to Carol Martin and Silent auction items to Monica McCabe.
Tent Construction Tuesday April 1^st, 10:30am at Bill Bolsters home.
Mapi purchased beautiful Shawls from Spain, perfect touch for your Evening in Seville, Contact Mapi to purchase one for yourself or the lady in your life.  Proceeds will be donated to the event.  707-481-8506.
Calendar:
Wednesday April 2: 6:00pm Voices of Windsor Roundtable conversation town council chambers.
Thursday April 3 The Alternative High Schools Application Team will meet live at Big Picture Learning. 4pm
Thursday April 10: Pancake breakfast. Rotary Club of Valley of the Moon-raising money for End Plastic Soup!                                                                                                        
April 12: An Evening in Seville
 Tuesday April 22: Earth Day Trash Clean up-Social event 4:00-5:30, followed by dinner
Saturday April 27: Earth Day Celebration, Windsor Town Green


Summary Report from 3/24/25 Board Meeting

• Financial Update: We continue to be in great shape financially!
• Investment policy: To be finalized next month
• Youth Committee:      Host Families Wanted!
• Environmental: Earth day coming up!
• 2 collaborations with Town events
• New Club: Boyd will be sending out email to club with more information
• Next Year’s Board…

2025-2026 OFFICERS:
Teasure:                      Ed Turner and Carol Martin
Secretary:                     Catherine Hanron
At-large Board              Boyd Morrison
President                       Larry McCabe
Past President              Barbara McChesney
President elect             Renee Hyde

Club Roles:
International Service Chair:         Pam Moulton
Community Service Chair:          Monica McCabe (with Jo Timmsen)
Youth Chair:                                   Pegi Ball (with Barbara on Interact)
Environment Chair:                      Barbara McChesney
Sunshine Chair:                           Leah Hansen
Club Operations:                           Chris Landwehr
Membership Chair:                       Boyd Morrison
Web Master:                                  J.B. Leep (and Mike LeComte)
Speakers:                                        J.B. Leep,  Larry McCabe, Brian Ling, Barbara McChesney
Foundation:                                   Brian Ling and Larry Mills

Brian Ling made a motion to accept the Officers of the Board and Committee Roles
Wally Krutz seconded the motion, The vote was unanimously approved by the club members.

March Birthdays:
Mitch Grandi-March3    Mitch also announced the birth of his first Granddaughter born 3/15/25
Diane Brabatz-March 21
JB Leep-March 22                                                                                                                                                               
 John LeCave-March 25


We were honored to celebrate Dalia Guzman from Nueva Academy as the Student of the Year. Presented by Daniel Myers and John Richards, director of Nueva Academy, Dalia’s remarkable journey through Windsor High School to Nueva Core left us in awe. With consistent kindness, dedication, and a passion for design sparked by a childhood memory of her dad building her a dollhouse, she has excelled. From being part of the marketing team for four productions to pursuing an internship in interior design, Dalia exemplifies creativity, inclusivity, and reflection. Her story is a testament to hard work and resilience.

Our Craft Talks today were equally engaging. Diane Brabetz shared her journey from a small Maryland town to becoming a leader in homecare nursing, building one of the largest home nursing startups in Northern California with over 150 employees. Her roots in Spain and her family’s accomplishments made her story truly inspiring.

Meanwhile, Sue Nelson captivated us with her passion for photography, from landscape art to her current work in street photography and photojournalism. Her latest project, “When Eyes Meet,” offers a raw and emotional glimpse into her talent and creativity.

A heartfelt thank you to all the speakers for making this meeting special and for sharing your incredible journeys. It’s moments like these that remind us of the power of connection and community!


Meeting adjourned @ 8:30am

March 18, 2025
Good morning Rotary Club of Windsor
Pledge - Eric
Song: Larry Mills – I’m Looking Over a 4 Leaf Clover
Inspiration: Michael Juric – Individually, we are one drop together we are an
ocean.
Teamwork means never having to take all the blame yourself
Visiting Rotarians: Frances McChesney from Davis Sunrise
Visitors: Pete Peterson – Dennis Wilkenson
Environmental Moment: Barbara-End Plastic Soup
End Plastic Soup-30 or more presentations around the district and beyond.
Next week I am presenting at a club in Seattle. I feel tremendous gratitude
seeing the incredible changes people have made in our district and in our
club. Valley of the Moon club James Allen contacted me several days ago
and their club is hosting a pancake breakfast to raise money for EPS. I am
so touched and felt so validated. April 10 th
Arundo video
Monica and Barbara-Arundo Donax
Saturday – 2 nd phase of the district grant to remove Arundo Donax with
Russian River Keepers – moved off Memorial Beach and near Badger
Park. You can see the progress!!!
Had about 20 people working away and ridding the river of this invasive
plant.

Announcements:
Women in Rotary: Rotary International officially allowed women into Rotary
clubs worldwide in 1989 after a Council on Legislation vote, following a
1987 U.S. Supreme Court decision and decades of efforts by members to
change the constitution.

The Sylvia Whitlock Leadership Award honors one Rotary member each
year who has actively worked to advance women in Rotary. It is named for
the first female Rotary club president, who went on to lead change for
women around the world through Rotary. We had the honor to hear Sylvia
speak at RI in Melbourne. Sylvia became president of her club in Duarte,
CA in 1987.
2024-25: Ayda Özeren from Turkey received the award for 2024-25. She
is a Rotary past district governor, is a member of The Rotary Foundation
Cadre of Technical Advisers and a Positive Peace Activator. 
“I believe in the power of small compassionate actions and the importance
of helping women even if it seems like a drop in the ocean. Each act of
kindness has the potential to make a significant difference in someone’s
life. Empowering women helps to build stronger communities, and peace is
only possible when you include women in decision making.”
Sue Nelson, Diane Brabetz, Maureen Merrill were charter members at the
beginning of the club, at the membership of the Windsor club was 50%
women
Last week Jessica announced her job promotion. . . wonderful news. . .
means she will leave the club. . . super sad news.
There are a number of Rotarians who need some extra support at this time.
Please reach out to your fellow Rotarians and share a little extra love when
you can and ask “How are you, really?”
Bill Bolster – joined the Rotary club of Healdsburg, had his hair dyed green
and made a donation to end polio at the same time (at 6.30 in the
morning!). Raised over $17K to end polio at this event!

Larry: Board updates:
Expect an email with Larry’s board to come soon for the club to vote on and
approve at a later date.
Fundraiser Updates: Thank you to Monica, Carol and Joan for stepping up
due to Catherine’s injury! Monica update on silent auction. Carol update on
live auction. We are behind collecting items and we need help!!

1. Buy tickets and invite a friend
2. Make, buy or ask a neighbor for something to auction off
Live auction update!!!
- VIP Golf for 4 at Windsor just got better – 1 hour with a pro!
- Go Fly a Kite – 10 family members and friends at the beach with
picnic lunch
- Chef Robert – Gourmet Dinner for 4 prepared in your home
(estimated $600-700 value)
Speaker: Frances McChesney and Pete Peterson from the MacIntosh Pipe
Band presenting ‘National Tartan Day’.
April 6th – National Tartan Day started in 1320 as part of Scotland’s bid for
national independence
Tartan is a woven cloth, that were traditionally dyed in the colors of plants
that were in the area. In Scotland there is a registry of tartans that makes
them official. There are 4 different Macintosh tartans
Earliest known tartan is the Falkirk tartan from ~250 AD
Wearing tartans and playing the bag pipes was banned in an attempt to
prevent the Scottish from going to war with the English (This didn’t quite
work out the way they thought it would)
Bagpipe history – started in Norther Africa. Mesopotamia Babylonia and
Egypt in 13 th century. Many different types of bagpipes.
Pakistan is the largest producer of pipes (quality does not match Scottish
ones)
Electric bagpipes are available.
It’s never too late to learn how to play the pipes!!
To learn the pipes, one starts with a practice chanter (similar to a recorder)
Arundo Donax is used to make reeds for bagpipes and other wind
instruments.
The 3 pipes off the bag are called drones (have their own reeds an octave
and two off from the A on the canter)
One blows into the blow hole (naturally)
Base drum to keep time, tenor drums, snare drums accompany the
bagpipers.
In competitions one tries to make their tone excellent so that when many
pipers are piping, it sounds like one instrument. Drumming judge,
ensemble judge
Played two tunes, one Scottish and one Irish.
Questions for our speakers:

Does the instrument take a lot of maintenance? For instance, the Irish flute
is a hassle. How about the bagpipes ?
Bagpipes need to be airtight so the no air escapes but loose so that the
drones may be tuned. The bag needs goop added every three months or
so. If not airtight the pipes are really hard to play. Reeds in the drones
need to be balanced.
What does a decent set of pipes cost? ~$1200 used, $1800 new.
One should be pressing the bag all the time to keep the air flow steady.
The drumming technique – there is a philosophy to drumming – flourishing
swinging of the mallets is to add some excitement and give people
something to watch, tenor drummers will coordinate and synchronize.
Are all the reeds a consistent shape and size? The Chanter reed can need
some adjustment due to the thickness some are stiffer than others want the
hardest that can play well. The more uniform the better things sound in
sync.
Was the reed always Arundo Donax – as far as we know and the plant is
not a pest when grown in other places.
When drumming went down hard but did not hit the drum hard – in previous
centuries the tenor drum was to be seen and not heard. This has changed
and the tenor plays to support the drum some time and the pipes at other
times. Lots of ongoing discussion on how the tenor drums should play.
Cane reeds have a beautiful sound where the plastic reeds can sound
tinny, not as full.
Band on the Bus 2019 went to Fergus Ontario for a competition – on the
top of the bus was a bar. Would get on top of the bus and play (and drink)
Word of warning! Don’t get too close to a pipe band if they are looking for
drummer!

Thank you to: our speakers and to our guests. . . . .
Greeter: Pegi Ball
Set-up: Eric Johnson
A/V set-up: Mike Raasch
Inspiration / Host: Michael Juric
Song: Larry Mills
Scribe: Boyd Morrison
Photography: Sue Nelson

March 11, 2025
Good morning, Rotary Club of Windsor.
4 Way Test – Diane B!
JB Leep lead us in a version of
‘This Little Light of Mine – 1920’s’
Inspiration: Renee Hyde
"Piglet?" said Pooh.
"Yes Pooh?"said Piglet.
"Do you ever have days when everything feels... Not Very Okay At All? And sometimes you
don't even know why you feel Not Very Okay At All, you just know that you do."
Piglet nodded his head sagely. "Oh yes," said Piglet. "I definitely have those days."
"Really?" said Pooh in surprise. "I would never have thought that. You always seem so
happy and like you have got everything in life all sorted out."
"Ah,"said Piglet. "Well here's the thing. There are two things that you need to know, Pooh.
The first thing is that even those pigs, and bears, and people, who seem to have got
everything in life all sorted out... they probably haven't. Actually, everyone has days when
they feel Not Very Okay At All. Some people are just better at hiding it better than others.
"And the second thing you need to know... is that it's okay to feel Not Very Okay At All. It
can be quite normal, in fact. And all you need to do, on those days when you feel Not Very
Okay At All, is come and find me, and tell me. Don't ever feel like you have to hide the fact
you're feeling Not Very Okay At All. Always come to Rotary. Because we will always be
there."
Visiting Rotarians:
None
Visitors:
Davin Goodwin – asst principal WHS
Trevor Johnson – outreach
Santa Tim Oxford
Patty (Santa Tim’s girlfriend)
Patricia Chadwick – principal Mattie Washburn
Dennis Wilkinson
Brittani Quiñones– event coordinator
Paul Jolly – previous host family, high school stem teacher
Myles Swarner – STEM Student of the year
Environmental moment: Monica McCabe

This Saturday – 9am arundo donax removal – help the community!
Wellness Center update: Davon Godmin, Assistant Principal WHS and
Trevor Johnson Wellness Outreach Specialist.
Monica presented Davon and Trevor with a sign for the center to show
Rotary’s contribution. They provided an update on all they are doing.
Eventful and busy at the wellness center – in a good way!
Trevor was able to unpack the boxes of donations and was able to supply
students with journals and needed supplies! Journals are great tools for the
students! Started Wellness Wednesday and Mindful Monday! There has
been about 300 check ins this school year. Outreach is good and helping a
lot of students.
WHS wellness center is flagship space – thanks to Windsor Rotary’s help!
Thank you, Windsor Rotary!
Announcements:
- Co president of the Interact club Jaslene was very excited to receive a bell as a gift from Margaret.
- Congratulations to Larry McCabe for completing PETS. He got his
swag!
- Larry McCabe presented the memorial plaque tribute to first responders and past President Doug which will be installed at Foothill park as soon as we find the perfect rock. The plaque will go adjacent to the driveway going into foothill park!

Brittani Quinones: Fundraiser updates
Recipients this year -
1 - Meals on Wheels 2 - Food for thought
Our goal is to raise $20k for Meals on Wheels and $5k for Food for
Thought.
We will get there through ticket sales, sponsorships, live and silent auction
items and donations .
There are 135 tickets left to sell with180 seats total available
Flamenco dancers, guitar, paella, beer, wine and more!
We have 6 sponsors valued at $6,500 with a goal of $20k for sponsors.
Today's speaker was Tim Oxford (Santa Tim).  He discussed his work to improve the local community, one interaction at a time.

March 4, 2025
“Good Morning Rotary Club of Windsor!” from our Club President Barbara
McChesney.
Pledge of allegiance led by Monica McCabe
Song: Geoff Harrison – It’s time for baseball and Geoff led us in the Giants
tribute song, Bye Bye Baby!
Inspiration: Jo Timmsen, shared some JFK memories from her Irish
immigrant family, and reminded us of his famous inauguration quote: “Ask
not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your
country.” Or your Rotary Club!
Visiting Rotarians: N/A

Visitors: Larry, Chris de Melo, Doyle Head, Amy Head, Kevin Jones (all
representing Cal Fire), Shannon Cotulla and Veronica Siwy (Windsor
Public Works), Dennis Wilkinson. (D&S Awards)
Thank you to Bill Bolster for leading the meeting last week in Barbara’s
absence.
Environmental moment: The theme for Rotary International this month is
water and sanitation so for the environmental moment. Pres. Barbara
showed a brief video of what Rotary does in this area.
Monica and Larry: Congratulations to their daughter-in-law who recently
earned her Naval Officer Wings, allowing her to set the missions,
overseeing navigation and weaponry as they patrol the coast for foreign
submarines, pirates, drug interdiction and search and rescue.  Larry and
Monica will contribute $100 to End Polio Now.

Larry McCabe acknowledged Windsor residents that participated in fighting
the Kincaid Fire that are not directly associated with the Windsor/Sonoma
County Fire Department. Each were presented with a commemorative
Kincaid Fire challenge coin.

1. Chris de Melo, off-duty Fire Captain-Cal Fire
2. Doyle Head, off-duty Battalion Chief - Northshore Fire Protection
District (retired)
3. Amy Head, off-duty Battalion Chief - Cal Fire (retired)
4. Kevin Janes, off-duty Battalion Chief - El Cerrito Fire Department
5. Larry Thompson
Announcements:
Fundraiser – Evening in Seville, April 12. Carol Martin showed a few of the
live auction items that will be available at the event. Susan Cole inspired
and invited all club members to spend some time on the event day for
setup and cleanup. Pam Moulton is looking for some decorating volunteers,
some popup tents, large cardboard, and reminder of a committee meeting
at Bill’s Barn this afternoon.
Scholarships - Michael Juric is gearing up the committee and process to
award our annual scholarships to Windsor students graduating this June.
Windsor Library – Randall Neff announced that the Windsor Library
reopened yesterday after being closed the past couple of months to
freshen up the library in form, function, and style!
Tom Boylan told us about the annual St Patrick’s Day parade on the
morning of March 17, held by the Healdsburg Rotary Club, and welcomed
everyone to come along and have some fun.
Monica McCabe invited all of us to attend the March 15, Arondo Donax
cleanup event along the Russian River in Healdsburg, our current District
Grant project.
Jessica Dominguez has accepted a promotion to Exchange Bank Branch
Manager at the Calistoga/Hwy 12 location.
Sue Nelson shared that John Hackenberg recently fell and broke his femur,
so give him a call and note of encouragement to get well soon.
Racks and Cues: Barbara showed a few pictures from our recent club
social at Racks and Cues and told the Rotarians to be looking forward to a
club bowling night in the near future.

Speaker Presentation: Barbara introduced Shannon Cotulla, Public Works
Director. Shannon has been the Public Works Director and Town
Engineer since 2021. He came to Windsor after 8 years with the water and
wastewater agency in South Lake Tahoe, and prior to that he worked as a
consultant and for public agencies in water, wastewater, and transportation.
After serving as a Combat Engineer in the Army, Shannon received a
bachelor’s degree in civil engineering graduated from North Carolina State
University. He lives in Windsor with his wife and teenage son.

Veronica Siwy, Deputy Director of Water and Environmental Management.
Veronica has been with the Town of Windsor for 11 years and in the water
quality field for nearly 20. She has her bachelor's degree in biology and her
master’s in public administration, both from Sonoma State University.
Veronica is the Deputy Director of Water and Environmental Management
for the Town. Her group oversees environmental programs for storm water,
water conservation, wastewater, drinking water, recycled water and storm
water.

Shannon and Veronica presented “Water and Wastewater Rate” update
from the Windsor Public Works/Water dept. WPW is currently doing the 5-
year rate and stabilization study. They explained how the ratepayers funds
are used in the water/wastewater system, a number of capital projects that
have been completed or in-process, and an outlook for the future. Even
including upcoming rate increases Windsor residents/ratepayers have the
lowest annual costs throughout the Sonoma/Napa/Mendocino region
Thank you to our speakers, guests, and Rotarians that helped out
today:
Shannon and Veronica,
1. Chris de Melo
2. Doyle Head
3. Amy Head,
4. Kevin Janes
5. Dennis Wilkinson
Greeter: Margaret Johnson

Set-up: Domingo Calleja
A/V set-up: Brian Williams
Inspiration / Host: Jo Timmsen
Song: Geoff Harrison
Scribe: Brian Ling
Photography: Sue Nelson

Rotary Club of Windsor
Feb. 18, 2025

Pledge of allegiance: Larry McCabe

Song:  Down by the Riverside,  JB Leep

Inspiration: Margaret Johnson: “Lead with your heart.” - Princess Diana
“Everyday some ordinary person does something extraordinary.  Today is your turn.”  Lou Holtz, football
great

Visiting Rotarians: Jeff Hess, President Elect of Kenwood Glen Ellen Rotary.
Visitors: Linda Mansell, BREAD (Presbyterian Church Pantry)
Drea Helfer

Environmental Moment:   Susan Cole gave a presentation  with video about the peace conference
recently held and sponsored in part by our Club.   What is the connection between peace and the
environment? In 1981, the UN designated September 21st as the International Day of Peace,
“commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and
peoples.” This will work to emphasize the connection between climate change and global peace, citing
that climate change has had a direct effect on international peace and security and its impact will only
grow. “Natural disasters displace three times as many people as conflicts, forcing millions to leave their
homes and seek safety elsewhere.” What can we do?

• Small actions matter: Think about the things you consume and its climate impact.  This can beanything from your toilet paper, almond milk consumption, eating meat every day, the car youdrive (contributing to water scarcity). You'd be surprised by how many little changes can helppromote peace in our world.
• Donate to climate causes
• Talk about it. . . read about it. . . educate yourself.
• Celebrate the United Nations International Day of Peace.

Announcements:

•  Check board for upcoming activities.
• Linda Mansell Presentation from Presbyterian Church

Board updates:

• Club finances are in great shape thanks to Carol and Ed keeping track of our budget.
• Club is in the process of formalizing the investment committee to develop an investmentstrategy.  They are changing the formula for quarterly distributions from the endowment fund. For now, $15,000 will be distributed quarterly going forward ASAP.  The principal of investmentwill not be touched.
•  Board increased the amount of money given to students of the year from $100-$250. Interact club raised the money and used it to build a buddy bench for Brooks Elementary school.
• The dictionary project has been reinstated. Some of you may remember this project from years past.  This will be in collaboration with other service organizations and will the dictionaries will be given to the 3rd graders at Brooks School.  Cali Calmeca and Windsor Christian declined.  
• Next Arundo Day is March 15 th   Please sign up to join us and Russian Riverkeepers to help erradicate this pernicious weed. 
•  Board approved funding Big Picture Learning ($2,200) request for culinary supplies and to complete the fire department demonstration garden ($2,500).  
• Many projects in the works for the  international-committee meeting soon to start making decisions.
• John LeCave, Margaret and Robin have stepped up to create teacher appreciation day.

Thank you to Michael LeCompte for having the social at his wine shop - lots of fun!
Don’t miss the next social at Racks and Cues! February 24, 5-8 pm.  RSVP to Barbara or Pam.
Linda Mansell, board member of BREAD (Building Relationships with Empathy and Dignity) runs the
Food Bank at the Presbyterian Church.  They serve 140 fammilies (approximately 500 people).  They use
a farmers’ market style, allowing clients to pick what they like and can use.  
Last year our Rotary Club gave $8,000 to BREAD to fix dangerous spots in the patio where the food give
away occurs including where  the rain water pools, and where there are tripping hazards.  The latest
atmospheric river came and went proving the improvements were well placed.  BREAD has about $500
more improvements to make.

Our Club gave BREAD a sign noting our donation to be posted at the Food Pantry.  

Speaker:  Drea Helfer, owner of DH Wine Compliance.  Drea gave us a rundown on the many, many
licenses that need to be filed and updated in order to have a wine business that markets in or out of our
state.  

Thank you to: Thank you to our guests. . . . .

Greeter: Michael Juric
Set-up: Kurt Mitchler
A/V set-up: JB
Inspiration / Host: Margaret Johnson
Song: J.B. Leep
Scribe: Monica McCabe
Photography: Sue Nelson or TBD

Minutes -
Rotary Meeting - February 11, 2025

The Meeting opened with President Barb reviewing the Four Way Test.  Bill Bolster lead us in singing Leo Sayer's "You make me feel like Dancing" which prompted many of the members to wiggle around the room for a bit!  Jim Curry provided the inspiration which encouraged us to Make A Difference in Somebody's life.  Don't limit the message of Valentine's  Day of Spreading love to one day - do it EVERY DAY!!

Margaret Johnson recounted a story of her childhood where her mother encouraged the children in the family to leave environments better than they found it!  She reminded us of the Native American saying that states that "We do not inherit the earth, we borrow it from our children.!"

These activities set the stage for the SPEED DATING program which encouraged the SEASONED MEMBERS to get to know our NEW MEMBERS by dividing us up intentionally!  Led by Renee Hyde, the activity was well received with a request that we do this more often!!
Everyone seemed to walk away with smile on their faces, and a little bit more information about each other !!

The meeting concluded with President Barb thanking everyone for their assistance and participation in the meeting. 

respectfully submitted,
Pam Moulton

Jan. 28, 2025
Good morning Rotary Club of Windsor.

JB Leep led us in the Flag Salute

Song: Larry Mills
Blowin’ in the Wind by Bob Dylan was chosen to align with the peace conference in Rohnert Park

Inspiration: Robin Schifando
Today’s inspiration was about kindness – Be the reason somebody feels welcome, seen, held, loved and, supported. Be the kindness for others today.  You may be the only kindness they see today.
Visiting Rotarians: none
Visitors: Danielle Buckman principal at WHS
 Accompanied by Wyla Buckman, her daughter
Beth Henry Executive Director of the Windsor Chamber of Commerce and speaker today


Environmental moment: Shared by our President, Barbara.
I had the opportunity to collaborate with Laura Staman, a local artist and member of WEACT (Windsor Earth Action Climate Team) to lead a workshop about plastic pollution. The kids watched the Microplastic Madness the week prior. Our workshop involved discussions, brainstorming, and small group work. We asked the kids to think about what is important to them about Windsor and what they want to protect. The town of Windsor is launching the Outreach Through Art storm drain painting project. Laura facilitated a brainstorming session and drawing exercise to apply as participants in this project.  She got a few students signed up to work with her.

Peace Conference: Susan Cole review
Announcements:

• Have you thought of ideas for the $750 grant from DG Jim O’Grady? See you email inbox for more details
• Mental health has been an important focus in our club. Did you all see the email from Jim O’Grady about the Out of the Darkness community walk being sponsored by the SRJC Rotaract club? This event is taking place on Feb. 8^th. They are looking for donations.
• Check the bulletin board and emails about upcoming events.
• SCARC crab feed in Cloverdale. First 100 people.
• Looking for the contact information for various club members?  DACdb is a great resource for us Rotarians!  Its primary purpose is to find contact information for all club members as well as members throughout our district. If you have not yet been trained to use DACdb or are not yet familiar with its benefits, please let President Barbara know and I will make sure you get the information you need.
• Our big fundraiser is April 12^th, An Evening in Seville.  Write that date in your calendar!  There is much work being done behind the scenes and there will be regular updates beginning very soon!  Your help is needed!  We will need all hands-on deck to make it a super success!!
• Meals on Wheels deliveries from members of our club begin today (2/4)!  Thank you, Larry McCabe, for making this possible!  The hope is to eliminate the backlog of need in Windsor by driving and helping to pay for the meals.
  • Are you interested in helping?  Contact Larry McCabe.  This is a great opportunity to help those in our community that need your help now or may be affected by upcoming budget cuts
• An Interact Nigerian connection was established between the club at WHS and an Interact club in Nigeria
• Let’s give a big shout out to Michael LeCompte for opening Tasting Notes for our first social. Great time to visit with fellow Rotarians, wonderful wine and great pizza from Jose Diego and the Pizza Guys. Thank you for making it happen and thank you to those who were able to come.  Our next social is in the works!!
• Thank you for Kool Camp kids-Pegi Ball
  • Pegi shared a thank you note sent from one of the kids that attended the camp.
  • Kool Kids Camp is a CASA supported event established for children
  • Monica McCabe acknowledged Pegi for all the work she put into RYLA and Kool Kids, etc.  The thank you note is just a small acknowledgement of the impact of Pegi’s efforts and Rotary’s support
• Hansen project
  • One more opportunity to visit the gravel mines/pits and the rehabilitation in progress by Russian River Keepers
• David Hamelburg needs volunteers to help with the WHS Internship and Job Fair Feb 24 & 25 1-3pm at WHS
  • help students practice interviewing, gain experience and possible get an internship or job by conducting mini-interviews and providing feedback.
  • Contact David at David@boomerangplus.org
• Catherine Hanron is collecting auction items for our An Evening in Seville Fundraiser—expect an email from her soon with suggestions and ideas.
• In honor of Valentine’s Day, next week is Speed Dating lead by Renee. This is a Super fun opportunity to get to know your fellow Rotarians.

• Moment of Gratitude
  • Sue Nelson pledged $50 in gratitude of her Birthday
  • Carol and JB 35 year Anniversary $100 for community foundation (they plan to celebrate in Iceland where the weather should be just as wet as it is today and 10-20 degrees cooler)
  • Diane and Les 57 year Anniversary Feb 10^th (They will Celebrate in Mexico)
  • Joan Mora pledged $100 to Paul Harris while announcing her 31yr Anniversary with the club

• Networking events – monthly luncheons, joint quarterly mixers (large social gathering in the evening with the other Sonoma County organizations 200-300 ppl)
• 2 newsletter lists—email lists of people in club and those interested in the club
• Visitor’s Center—recommendations, welcome bags at the local hotel, relocation packs (about once a week have someone inquiring about moving to the “cute town”), Windsor Guide
• The Chamber offices and Visitor’s Center are both located near the train Depot and there is a 20x20 conference room available on site
• Provide opportunities to sponsor an event and advertise one’s business

• Work force readiness.  Intern programs, supporting workers and entrepreneurs of tomorrow, WUSD scholarship program (3x$2000 scholarships – requirements-- self employed or have a parent that is a chamber member).
• Connect Business with Resources
• Business Resource Coordinator, Bilingual—Received a grant to assist business through the process of getting loans and assistance to deal with Covid.  Attempting to connect with the underserved members of the business community and reflect the members of the community.
• Leadership Windsor—Well informed engaged local members of the community are essential to a thriving community.  Lead Windsor provides knowledge of local services, economics, issues and needs while forging bonds of respect and understanding.
• Helps to encourage the people of Windsor lead in their communities and not elsewhere
• Sonoma County Women Professionals group—A lot of women joined the chamber during Covid.  So many, that their was an opportunity to form WOW (Women of Windsor) specifically to support women in business.

• Advocate for business interests.  For instance
  • Timed parking in downtown area to allow customers access to businesses.
  • Tobacco ordinances, advocating for businesses not to be the point of education when rules change on the selling of tobacco in the city of Windsor
  • When Racks N Cues (new local pool hall) went into to the Lakewood center the chamber helped to communicate what this business was about.  Not an attempt to attract trouble but, to establish a thriving business.  Better than an empty space
  • Retention of parklets in the Downtown area.  More lively and vital downtown area.  Flagship just took down their parklet.  Flagship’s parklet was 6inches too long.  May return in the summer (there is that option now). 
• The Chamber does not take a stance on political issues. 

In Summary, Windsor is evolving
         Windsor cannot exist without thriving businesses.
         Windsor continues to mature.
         The Chamber will continue to educate, elevate and empower businesses.

Questions and Answers:
Q How much funding does chamber get from the town and how does the chamber balance this with advocating for its members?
A The Chamber Receive $85k for economic development and staffing of the visitors center.  If it did not receive this money then it would relocate the visitors center.  Have respectful relationships with the town council.

JB—Mailer advertising that Council does is really good.  Visitors location is a great place to get brochures
         Q Rotary is a member of the Chamber of Commerce.  Can anyone of us attend a chamber of commerce meeting?
A Rotary, as a non-profit member of the chamber of commerce.  Any member may attend the event at the member price.  Call the office, say you are with rotary and get on the list.  All Rotary members can attend chamber events this way.

President Barbara closed the meeting by thanking everyone involved

Thank you to: our speaker Beth Henry Thank you to our guests. . . .

Greeter: Kristine Siebert
Set-up: Eric J. & John L.
A/V set-up: Alissa Johnson
Inspiration / Host: Robin Schifando (great job on your first inspiration!)
Song: Larry Mills
Scribe: Boyd Morrison
Photography: Sue Nelson
Brian Williams thank you for Bring Danielle and Wyla here today!
Ring the bell “Bing!”

Good Day fellow Rotarians friends and family who are reading our weekly bulletin.  Today’s minutes are from TUESDAY, January 28, 2025         

Four Way Test: Lead by Jessica Dominguez
INSPIRATION: Susan Cole  “I have walked that long road to freedom.  I have tried not to falter; I have made missteps along the way.  But I have discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb.  I have taken a moment here to rest, to steal a view of the glorious vista that surrounds me, to look back on the distance I have come.  But I can only rest for a moment, for with freedom come responsibilities, and I dare not linger, for my long walk is not ended.”   Nelson Mandela
SONG:  Geoff Harrison stated that this song was written 103 years ago, but still applies to today, whether you are carrying a heavy or a light load we all need to continue to “Row Your Boat”.  We sang it as a round with men and women singing alternately.
VISITING ROTARIANS:  Susan Cole introduced Oladapo Michael Sanni, known as (Dopson)     Dopson is a Past President of the Abeokta Rotary Club in Nigeria; he traveled to Sonoma County to participate in the Rotary Peace Conference last weekend in Rohnert Park. 
GUESTS OF ROTARIANS: Angela West, principal of Windsor Middle School, Richard Greenwood, Misty Woods, and Sheriff, Coroner Eddie Engram.
Carol Martin shared that the Rotary Club of Windsor was presented an award of recognition for supporting the Peace Conference held this last week-end in Sonoma County.
President Barbara attended the Peace Conference and had these words: “Several of us from the club attended the peace conference this past weekend.   There were Rotarians from 4 different countries.  One of the beautiful things about Rotary is the opportunity to connect with people from all over the world.  I was delighted to make a new friend in Dopson.  As Paul Harris wrote for the 1921 convention; “Rotary believes that the better the people of one nation understand the people of other nations, the less the likelihood of friction, and Rotary will therefore encourage acquaintance and friendships between individuals of different nations.”                                                                                                             
Environmental Moment:  Last week President Barbara showed a video of the cleanup efforts in the Motagua River.  She was asked where all the plastic came from?  Barbara did not feel she gave a good answer and has provided a more detailed answer here:   Flowing from the Guatemalan Highlands to the Honduran Caribbean, the Motagua River once held great cultural and economic significance to the Maya civilization.  More than 1000 years later, the Motagua River has over 5 million people relying on its waters and has been transformed into a massive flow of garbage.  According to the Guatemala’s Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, the population living along the river generates about 40 million pounds of trash every year, only to be dumped into the Caribbean Sea.  This stream of waste has created a toxic cocktail for the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world that is now fighting for survival under a blanket of garbage that chokes out sunlight. The problem stems from the lack of a proper waste management system, lack of education and lack of appropriate public policies. In addition the water is highly contaminated, creating a reliance on bottled water.  Boyan Slat, the CEO of Ocean Cleanup stated “the plastic emissions caused by the Rio Motagua surpass the global C02 emissions generated by all the airplanes in the world”
ANNOUNCEMENTS:

• We have access to a $750.00 grant.  We have a few ideas where to spend this $$ but would like to hear ideas from the club.  Contact Barbara with ideas you may have.
• Fundraiser Update from Brittani: We are very close to finalizing all documents for sponsorship, marketing flyer and the updated website.  Expect an email soon!  Mapi is working diligently to secure food for the appetizers.  We are looking for volunteers to help collect food donations and help with food prep in the weeks leading up to the event. Please contact Mapi Klick mapisima@gmail.com ASAP if interested.   The goal is to get tickets on sale by week of February 17.

• Windsor High School Senior Project Presentation April 15, 2025

• Brian Ling is re-introducing our Recognition Program:  this is a fun way to share your Joy’s, boast about achievements, (yours or someone else’s)  all while whittling away at the $80.00 fee we all pay anyway, if not during the year, it is included in our invoice at the end of the year.  OR     the opportunity to make a contribution to your Paul Harris, The Windsor Foundation or the Ken Moulton Scholarship Foundation. 

• January 30^th:  SCARC dinner at the Wild Oak Saddle Club, 5pm, Cost: $65.00  550 White Oak Drive, Santa Rosa, CA 95409
• Monday Feb. 3^rd:  Hansen Site tour, 1pm – 3pm   Contact Kurt Mitchler
• Tuesday Feb 4^th:  Beth Henry Windsor Chamber of Commerce
• Thursday Feb 13^th:  Hansen Site tour, 1pm – 3pm   Contact Kurt Mitchler
• Thursday Feb. 13^th:  Sonoma County Sheriff Dept. and Windsor Police Dept. meet and greet.   Windsor Council Chambers 

• $245M Budget
• 654 positions
• Patrol, detention, court security, coroner, search & rescue

The Sheriff’s Department also serves as the Windsor Police Department, Sheriff Engram stated they also have a contract with the Town of Sonoma and serve as their police department.


Sheriff Engram shared the top 3 Priorities of the Sheriff Department
#1:  Public Safety: 
Parks Unit formed in August 2024   1 sergeant + 4 deputies  Collaboration with Regional Parks:    Sheriff’s Department now has jurisdiction over Regional Parks,     
Bring back drug enforcement


#2:  Recruitment + Retention:
They are fully staffed Focus on staff development + succession planning. Expanded wellness program - Physical & Mental health counselor hired by the  department
#3: Changes You Can See:

• New Uniforms
• Looking into new branding on vehicles
• Community Outreach  Monthly Newsletter  Town Hall Meeting February 13, 2025 Windsor Council Chambers

Q.   Sheriff Engram was asked what would keep the homeless from returning to the Joe Rodota   Trail?     
A.   Engram explained that now that the Sheriffs have jurisdiction over the parks they are able to keep the parks clear before they become a problem. 
Q.  Where did those people go?
A.  Some accepted services offered by the city of SR, other dispersed to less visible spots, including private property.
Q.  Michael Juric ask if looking at the focus areas: homelessness, Mental Health & Addiction how can a community organization, like Rotary help?
A. Sheriff Engram stated the biggest problem is lack of facilities and treatment to address the underlying problems. 

Brian Williams stated Windsor High School does have school resource officers, Sheriff add they also have resource officers at Sonoma Valley, as Windsor & Sonoma are in their jurisdiction. 

Closing remark
President Barbara thanked Sheriff Engram for his presentation, and thanked all the Rotarians that helped to put the meeting together.
Meeting adjourned @ 8:30am

Minutes from Rotary Meeting of January 21, 2025

The meeting was opened by President Barb at 7:30, with Michael Ragsdale leading the club in the Pledge of Allegiance.  Susan Cole led everyone in singing “It’s a Wonderful World” and Diane Brabetz shared three quotes under the umbrella of “Vocational Services” (the Rotary Theme for this month).

“Your vocation in life is where your greatest joy meets the world’s greatest need!” – Frederick Buechner

"A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination and instill a love of learning" – Brad Henry

"Education is the most powerful weapon for changing the world!" – Nelson Mandela

Visiting Rotarians: 

•no visiting Rotarians

Visitors: 

There was one visitor from Santa Rosa…, Peter Kaspar. 

Environmental Moment: 

President Barb shared the Environmental Moment:    
“Many of you know Salvador Rico from the Ukiah club.  His brother died from polio when they were children. He had contracted polio from a highly polluted river. Salvador developed a deep commitment to cleaning the rivers of the world and is currently focused on the River Motagua in Guatemala. Last week I attended a meeting he hosted showing the work highlighting ‘The Ocean Clean Up’, an organization Rotarians are collaborating with.”

 For the environmental moment, she shared a video highlighting the issues against which they are fighting to keep the rivers clean!

Announcements:

• President Barb reminded us that there was a dedication of the Peace Pole at Brooks School Further she noted that each of the schools in Windsor will be receiving a Peace Pole
• Peace Conference on January 24 – 26 at the DoubleTree in Rohnert Park
• Club Social on TUESDAY, January 28 at Michael Le Compte’s Oak Tree winery “Tasting Notes”
• Announcement of the upcoming SCARC on January 30th

•   Festival of Brotherhood trip March – more information to follow

• President Barb and Diane Brabetz gave an update on Mike Merrill .  Suggestions were made to reach out to him – possibly for a morning coffee?  A chat?
• Larry: Board meeting recap which stated that things are moving along as they should. He noted that the financials are in good shape and that the Board/Committee is looking to review the formula to withdraw money from our investments, which are now held with Exchange Bank; the fund raiser is moving along: Teacher appreciation is starting to surface to the top as something that we need to address; In Youth, we are recruiting for RYLA and it is anticipated that we will have several applicants and the Membership Committee is looking for new leadership given the demands of the current leads (Maureen M and Renee Hyde)
• Barbara indicated that there were about 25 Interact kids who showed up for the MLK Park clean up on January 20^th. Bill, B.   President Barb and Dave D were in attendance. Bill suggested that members watch “Driving Miss Daisy” and “Mississippi Burning” in an effort to better understand the issues related to discrimination and equality.  He reminded us that he had been raised in the South.

Speakers:  The program, which was introduced by JB was a series of Craft talks by Kristin Koszewski, Randall Neff, Michael Ragsdale

KRISTIN:

  Kristin mentioned that she joined Rotary on August 28, 2024!  She gave a comprehensive description of her early history, her dedication to the Bills, her life in Westminster, Colorado, her military service and her profession as a police officer.   She noted that she graduated in 2000 and enlisted in the Navy where she had the opportunity to go to Bootcamp in Illinois, be stationed in Guam, live in Greece (Pre Olympics) and be transferred to Bremerton. She recounted a near fatal motorcycle accident which resulted in her “having an awakening” and ultimately returning to school.  She talked about being on the ship for three years where she traveled around the world!  She ultimately got her AA living in San Diego.  She candidly recounted the story which ultimately led to her leaving the military, however she proudly indicated that she was able to take advantage of educational opportunities because of her military service and completed her BA in Criminal Justice and her MA in management (Congratulations!!!). 

Before resigning in 2024 and moving north to Sonoma County, she made note that she had been a police officer, a “Gun Range Manager and ultimately moved into the field of “Explosive safety.’  She indicated that she has been looking for a job, and tearfully announced that she is starting a job with the Post Office on next Monday and as a result, is not sure “when she will be returning to Rotary.!”  Kristin is married and has an elementary school age daughter who attends Cali Calmecac.

Good luck in your job, Kristin!!  Come visit anytime you want!!

RANDALL:

  Randall joined Rotary in August 2024.  He gave a comprehensive review of the many places that he has worked until the company he was working for went “belly up.”   He recounted a story of meeting a 100 year old woman (Ruby) when he was 50 years old, and realizing that he was only HALF WAY done with his life and needed to start looking for something to do.  This is what propelled his series of volunteer jobs!!

 His extensive list included serving as a volunteer and sharing his “badges” to prove it!!  The volunteer history included years of programming, animation, being a docent at a Palo Alto based computer history museum to becoming an “Angel Elf.” He moved to Windsor in 2011 and from 2014 until 2020 he worked with the Library Commission.  At present, he is president of the FRIENDS of the LIBRARY and is intimately involved in the fundraising to secure funds for the upgrading and remodeling of the Windsor Library.

Randall finished where he began but shared that he was from Houston where he had worked for HP.  He has an MA and PhD in Electrical Engineering.  He made note that he worked in E-Trade and moved to a .com start-up which ultimately went belly up and started him on his volunteer quest.

MICHAEL-  “RAGS” Ragsdale

Rags opened with a detailed story of his family, his seven other siblings, and parents.  Because his father was in the military, the family moved all over the country. At age 19, he started college to become an engineer, left and never returned to the East Coast. He held several jobs which included being a cook, dishwasher, roofer and installing insulation (ugh!!) and loves motorcycles. In 1982, he married “the love of his life” and now has two married children and three grandkids.  He and his wife are committed to being involved with their children and assisting in raising their grandchildren.  Rags and his wife, Barbara, live on a small farm where they raised fruits and vegetables.  Their daughter and family live on the farm as well.  Their son is living in Pt. Magu.  Rags said that after working in the world of IT, he “replaced himself” and retired!!

Mike recounted how it was his wife who was planning on joining Rotary, but he ultimately joined.  Barbara is a “leader in her own field!” He admitted that he loved the mission of Rotary and has been a member for 20 years, having been sponsored by Pegi Ball. Rags admitted that he has made loving friendships through Rotary over the years.  Michael as served as President, and Assistant Governors and is a Paul Harris Fellow.

President Barb closed the meeting with a sincere “Thank you” to: our speakers, our guests and those who assisted in make the meeting happen!

Greeter:  Mitch Grandi
Set-up: Steve Klick
A/V set-up: Jose Diego
Inspiration / Host: Diane Brabetz
Song: Susan Cole
Scribe: Pam Moulton
Photography: Sue Nelson 

Now – “go do something Rotarian!!”

Respectfully submitted,

Pam Moulton

Rotary Club of Windsor (Meeting notes)
January 14, 2025
Note: Today’s meeting has been prepared and led completely by the Interact Club from
Windsor High School with support from our club president, Barbara McChesney.
Welcome message and Interact officer’s introduction
- Co-presidents Evan Jones and Jaslene Marquez
- Vice-president: Gael Zetino-  Treasurer Secretary: Preston Woolman
4 Way test: (led by Interact Officers)
Of the things we think, say or do
1.     Is it the TRUTH?
2.     Is it FAIR to all concerned?
3.     Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
4.     Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
Song:  Doobie Brothers. . . Listen to the Music!
Inspiration: Evan-MLK Jr. quote . . . Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, “What are you doing
for others?”
Visiting Rotarians:  Antoine Bigirimana, Sonoma Valley Club
Visitors: Dennis Wilkinson, Heather Christensen, Thora Cole, Richard Greenwood, Kai Arce
WHS Interact Members: Matthew, Michelle, Chloe, Zoe, Isaac, Jesse, Elysia, Naiylah, Caden, Adam,
Logan, Preston, Gael, Evan, Jaslene, and Mr. Mitz (WHS faculty support).
Announcements:
- Barbara: Moment of support for the victims of the LA Fires. The Rotary Foundation will have a donation link through their Natural Disasters Program.
- Kurt: Russian River Keepers, Riverfront Park (Hanson Project) tour on Feb 3 or Feb 13.
Please sign up with Kurt if you are interested.
- Renee: International Committee will convene after the meeting today and will hear a project in
Rowanda that we may consider supporting. The club is always encouraged to offer additional
projects for the committee’s consideration.
- Larry: Toy and Food Drive “ thank you” for all that helped. Over 840 gifts were presented to
children and over 300 families received boxes of food for the holidays. An extra thank you to
Windsor Rotarians that clearly led this project for the benefit of the entire Windsor community.
- Maureen: Rotary Peace Conference in Rohnert Park, January 24-26, sold out.

Environmental moment/speaker:  Naiylah Hines (Interact) – Naiylah gave an excellent presentation
regarding Environmental change and effects on the health of Indigenous peoples and took several
questions from our members and guests in attendance.

Speaker: Kai Arce- short term youth exchange. RYLA participant and co-founder of WHS Interact
Club.
Because of Rotary I participated in RYLA, started the Interact Club, set up a Peace Pole at WHS, and was able to do a short-term youth exchange to Finland. Exchanging home and abroad with a Finland teen was awareness of new things, not just in a new country but in my own community as well.
Hospitality and respect to be welcome into a stranger’s home was highly impactful. Making connections throughout the world is a unique opportunity to be appreciated. All these things have helped me to better understand how to put me into other person’s shoes.

EXTRA TIME:  Interact discussion, questions from Rotary
Interact Questions/information: 20+ members “Pax” (def: ‘peace’ in Latin) tee-shirts that they sell for
fundraiser. New project is a “buddy bench” to allow opportunities for students looking to make new friends and discuss challenges they are facing. Officers told us why they got involved in Interact and what they get out of it.

Thank you to:
Thank you to the people that helped make the meeting happen.
Greeter:  Interact Club
Set-up: Kurt Mitchler
A/V set-up: Brian Williams
Inspiration / Host: Interact club
Song: Preston and Gael
Scribe: Brian Ling
Photography: Sue Nelson
And thank you to all our guests today.

Jan. 7, 2025 Minutes Rotary Club of Windsor

4 Way Test -Jo Timmsen
Song:  JB Leep, Chubby Checker’s “ Twist”
Inspiration:  Maureen Merrill  :  What are you waiting for? Do it!
Visiting Rotarians: President Jim Westfall, Rotary Club of Healdshburg noon
Visitors: Brittani Quinones, Mapi Klick, former club member Dennis Wilkinson, and guest of Brian
Willliams.
Environmental moment: Kurt Mitchler.  Kurt is organizing a tour of the Hanson Quarry Site.
Announcements:
? President Barbara wished everyone a Happy New year and hoped we all had a wonderful
holiday
? Reminder that upcoming dates have been sent out in recent emails
? Introduction of Brittani Quiñones , new chair of our fundraiser.    Brittani came highly
recommended by Steve and Mapi Klick.
? Bill Bolster thanked all the Salvation Army Bell Ringers. 
? Peace pole dedication to be Jan. 10, 2025 8:40 am Brooks Elementary
? Chris Landwehr handed out schedule for job assignments
? President Barbara said we don’t have time to do a proper acknowledgement of the work of
Larry, Monica, Carol, JB, Dave and many others for the Toy and Food Drive and to Pegi and her
team for the senior luncheon. I thank all involved with these projects and will do a proper thank
you next week complete with photos. 
? Tiffany at Wise Acre Farms is having a raffle when you buy eggs: the winner gets eggs for a year
or $120 

Speaker: Rubin Scott:  Rubin’s background is in human development and family studies and he has a
passion and commitment to uplift all people in our community while fighting against systemic racism. 
He was instrumental in reviving the NAACP in Sonoma County which was on the verge of collapse.  He
served as president and has now started a new non-profit called Community Equity Foundation.  Rubin
invites our club to join the MLK JR Day On, Not Day Off on January 20, at MLK Park in Santa Rosa, and
their annual Rohnert Park African Soul Festival in September. Contact the Community Equity Foundation
for more information.  Rubin’s message to our club was that of bringing together people throughout our
community regardless of race, religion, or political background for the common good.

Thank you to:
Greeter: Renee Hyde
Set-up: Dave Doht
A/V set-up: Larry McCabe
Inspiration / Host: Maureen Merrill
Song: J.B. Leep
Scribe: Monica McCabe
Photography: Sue Nelson (or TBD)
*Upcoming dates and events
Tuesday Jan. 7: Fundraiser meeting immediately following regular meeting at Charlies.
Friday Jan. 10: Peace pole dedication at Brooks Elementary School.  All are invited to attend the 8:40 am
ceremony.
Tuesday Jan.14:  Please support our Interact Club when they will lead our entire meeting.  They are very
excited, and it should be an interesting and inspiring meeting. International committee meeting
following regular meeting.
Thursday Jan. 16: Fundraiser meeting on zoom. All interested parties are welcome to join.
Monday Jan. 20: Volunteer opportunity MLK Day On, Not Day Off event.
https://www.sonoma.com/event/mlk-day-of-service/
Tuesday Jan. 21: Craft talks
Friday Jan. 24-Sunday Jan. 26: District peace conference
Tuesday Jan. 28: Sheriff Edie Engram
Tuesday Jan. 28 Social at Michael LeCompte’s Tasting Notes Wine Lounge, Windsor. Details coming.
Jan. 30 SCARC dinner at the Wild Oak Saddle Club starting at 5:00pm. 550 White Oak Drive Santa Rosa,
CA 95409.  Cost is $65

Good Day fellow Rotarians and friends and family who are reading our weekly bulletin.  Today’s minutes are from TUESDAY, December 10, 2024

Four Way Test: 
INSPIRATION:  Robin Schifando 
“Always give without remembering and always receive without forgetting” Brian Tracy
“Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth” Mohammed Ali 
SONG:  Geoff Harrison  “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”
No VISITING ROTARIANS 
GUESTS OF ROTARIANS:  Past Rotary club member Dennis Wilkinson, Retired Windsor Police Chief Ruben Martinez, Current Windsor Chief of Police Gregory Piccinini and our guest speaker Dr. Lisa Ward.  
Environmental Moment: Diane Brabetz, Diane shared with us pictures and a story of how the turtles return to the beach at her house in Mexico each year to lay their eggs and how she, her husband Les and their dog protect their space and help to ensure as many baby turtles as possible are released into the ocean.  
Larry McCabe: Coin presentation to Retired Windsor Police Chief Ruben Martinez, Windsor Police Chief Gregory Piccinini and retired Windsor Police Chief Mike Raasch, recognizing their work as first responders to the Kincaid fire. 
Michael Juric reminded us that at Doug William’s debunking we assured him a “Welcome to Windsor” sign would be erected at the Smart Train Station downtown Windsor.  In conversation with the Windsor Chamber of Commerce Michael was informed the Smart Train is expected to arrive in Windsor Spring 2025 and the “Welcome to Windsor” sign will be in place around the same time.  In addition to the sign the Chamber of Commerce is creating an art wall displaying photos that represent the Town of Windsor and requested a few photos of Retired Fire Chief Doug Williams to include in the display.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: 
President Barbara:   Peace Pole dedication, Brooks Elementary School,                                                Monday December 16, 2024        8:40am   Please join us! 
Bill Bolster:  Bell Ringing Saturday December 14^th and Saturday December 21^st.  Contact Bill 
Pegi Ball:  Bell Manor Holiday Lunch:  Tuesday December 17^th, Bell Manor Apartments. 8780 Bell Rd. Windsor, 11am gathering, then lunch served at 12 noon,  
Congratulations JB Leep on winning election for Town Council:  Celebration December 10^th 5pm Windsor Community Shops, inside the Raley’s grocery store.  
ROTARY PEACE CONFERENCE:  January 24^th - 26th 2025 Sonoma County – Rohnert Park      Learn more and Register:  Peace25.org 
SPEAKER: 
 Dr Lisa Ward: Dr Ward is the Chief Medical Officer at the Alliance Medical Center in Windsor; she has over 20 years of experience in Federally Qualified Health Clinics (FQHCs) as a clinician leader.  
Dr. Ward is a board-certified family physician with a passion for working with the underserved communities, issues of health equity, diversity in the health professions and universal health insurance and access to care for all.
Dr Ward’s focused message was a family physician’s perspective of supply and demand, acknowledging there is a medical crisis, aware that there is an extreme wait time to be seen not only by specialisst but by our primary care physicians.  
Dr Ward stated the Alliance Medical Center serves over 15,000 people in the Windsor & Healdsburg community; Alliance Medical Center has an office in Healdsburg, as well as Windsor.
There is growing scarcity in the healthcare workforce, with 50% of healthcare workers being 50 years or older it is estimated 30% of the workforce will be leaving over the next 10 years.  
At the present time it would require every physician to work 18 hours a day, every day to offer adequate service to the community.  



More healthcare workers would seem a solution; however, Dr Ward stated there is a backlog in that area as well.  She stated it takes 10 years to train a physician, and that there are only 150 doctors per year in medical school.  
Dr Ward stated the passing of prop 35 should be helpful as it will mandate more money from insurance company’s going into primary care and training.  Currently Insurance companies spend as little as 3% on primary care, under the new proposition they will be mandated to increase to 15%.   Primary care is the foundation of good health care.
Dr Ward opened her presentation to questions and comments, the following topics were discussed: 
AI could be helpful; tele visits are used and are very helpful, as are physicians assistants & nurse practitioners.  These are all changes we are seeing and to which we are becoming accustomed.
One issue Dr Ward mentioned is that 75% of physicians go into specialty fields rather than primary physicians,  
Increasing education on healthy lifestyles and diet can help to prevent chronic disease
The question was asked whether people were more resistant to vaccines in today’s climate, especially for children?  Dr Ward responded that there is more resistance especially to the Covid and flu vaccines for children, thankfully no problem with polio and other childhood vaccines.   
Unfortunately no real clear solution as the healthcare workforce shrinks and the population ages but it is comforting to know we have someone like Dr. Lisa Ward in our community working on the problem.  

President Barbara thanked our speaker, guests and Rotary members that assisted in making our meeting possible.
Meeting adjourned 8:30am
 

Rotary November 26, 2024

4-way test: Jessica Dominguez

Song, 76 Trombones: JB Leep

Inspiration :Actions speak louder than words: Leslie Lewis

Visitors:  Diane Harris and Doug Hammerstrung, from Ft. Bragg Rotary, and guests of the Merrills

  Maureen Landweir, guest of Chris Landweir

Environmental Moment:  Margaret Johnson:  recycle and reuse the old fashioned way, like our parents did: wash and reuse tin foil.  Reuse paper lunch bags, bring lunch from home, use coffee cans for storage.

Announcements:

Margaret offered Take A Chance Wine, made by her husband.  No guarantee as to taste but any donation will go to the Food and Toy drive. 

Susan Cole: The Rotary Peace Conference 2025, January 24-26,  is the ultimate gathering of visionaries and change-makers from diverse fields coming together to revolutionize the world.  

Francesco Lecce-Chong from the Santa Rosa Symphony will be speaking on Music as Diplomacy.

November Rotary Magazine featured the response from Rotary Clubs, including ours to the Turkey Earthquake in 2023.  Our Club donated $2,000 and Rotary International donated $2.7 million.

JB Leep: Reported that former exchange student, Stefan is interviewing to be a hedge fund intern in NYC this Friday.

Boyd Morrison:  Reminds the club that a satellite club might be starting.

Bill Bolster reminds everyone that help is needed for bell ringing for the Salvation Army on Saturdays December 14 and 21.  Contact Bill if interested. 

Barbara McChesney: our high school interact club is on the current Russian RiverKeepers advertisement.

Larry McCabe:  The Larry and Monica McCabe Foundation will match gifts up to $400 to the Food and Toy Drive so that our Club is a sponsor. 

José Diego shared his Thanksgiving tradition of bringing pizza to local homeless people.  José accepted donations for his project, and invited help from Club members. 

Monica McCabe: shared the recommendation of the Grant Review Committee to the Board: 

The Committee recommends funding immediately:

Windsor Senior Center Coffee:                     $250

Windsor Middle School Science Camp:                            $1,000  (Committee would like to give more if possible)

Santa Tim:                                                                               $1,000

The Committee recommends funding the following with new funds from the foundation or from the fundraiser.

Scout Pack 20 Website (Michael LeCompte, leader)       $1,000

SCFD demo garden completion:                                          $2,500

Big Picture Academy Culinary Classroom                   $2,200

The Committee recommends the following as the major recipients of a fundraiser:

Meals on Wheels                 $20,000

Food For Thought      $5,000

Total grant funding:                                                        Fundraiser goal:                    $30,000

THEME OF FUNDRAISER: BRIDGING THE GAP ON FOOD INSECURITY WINDSOR 2025

GUEST SPEAKER: AUSTIN RANCH FLOWERS’ COLLEEN AUSTIN

Colleen and husband Rick run a 5 acre organic and sustainable flower farm in S. Santa Rosa. Colleen gave tips on buying local flowers, how to keep them fresh, and how to arrange them.

Buying local greens and flowers that are in season is a very green, though challenging practice.  

 
            Today’s speaker was Kristine Redko (“K Red”), the District 5130 Governor Elect for 2025-2026.  Kristine is a charter member of two new Rotary Clubs in our area, the Rotary Club of Rancho Cotati (“RCRC”) and the Rotary Club of Sonoma Mountain Twilight.  She encouraged our vibrant traditional club to consider creating another Rotary Club in our area to appeal to existing and new Rotarians seeking a different club model and a different time, location, and frequency of club meetings.  Kristine indicated we should not be worried about losing members or detracting from the energy of our club because, in her experience with new clubs, no Rotarians were lost and new Rotarians were gained, thereby expanding our reach and extending our brand. Every club member should feel empowered to participate.
                                                                                                
 
            Call to Order.   President Barbara McChesney called the meeting to order at 7:30 am.
 
            Pledge of Allegiance.  Sandi Krutz led the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
 
            Song.  Bill Bolster led us in singing “Good Vibrations” by the Beach Boys.
 
            Inspiration.   Mike Merrill provided an inspirational quote:
                        “You have always had the power, my dear, you just had to learn it for yourself.”—Glinda, the good witch in The Wizard of Oz   
 
            Guests.  Brian Ling introduced visiting Rotarian Kristine Redko of the Rotary Club of Sonoma Mountain Twilight.   Also visiting again was soon-to-be-new-member Eric Johnson
 
Environmental Moment.  President Barbara delivered a heartfelt environmental moment lamenting that, unless something changes, in 2050, when her grandson will be 28, there will be more plastic than fish in the ocean, coral reefs will be functionally degraded, and the impact of climate change will make the world increasingly uninhabitable.  Barbara related that she led the last District Environmental Committee meeting with a very heavy heart.  Salvador Rico reminded the committee of the long list of incredible environmental projects Rotary is doing around the world.
 
Salvador’s message to Barbara: “Remember that we can influence the world through Rotary and we have to do it for our children and their children’s children.  We can’t stop and allow anything to stop us.  We have to leave a better world for our future generations. We have Rotarians at COP-29 in Baku, Azerbaijan this week.  And starting in December we begin preparations for COP-30 for Brazil.  We always work with those who want to work and are ready to work.  So let’s get the job done, Grandma.  Your grandson is counting on you.” 
 
Announcements.
 
            Windsor Rotary Foundation Advisory Committee.  Sue Nelson announced the formation of a seven-member advisory committee for the Windsor Rotary Community Foundation to work with Sue and the club treasurers in developing an investment policy and distribution guidelines in conjunction with Exchange Bank, the custodian of the Foundation funds.  It is anticipated that the committee will meet 3 to 4 times a year to deal with Foundation policy matters and advise the club/foundation board.  Anyone interested in serving on the committee should contact Sue.
 
            Wine Sale.  Larry McCabe reported that 6 people have pledged about $1,100 to purchase wine at a discounted price with all proceeds to be distributed to the People for Parks organization that is supplying the wine.  There will be several other rounds of wine sales to benefit Windsor parks. Wine purchases are not tax deductible.
 
            Toy Drive.  Larry McCabe also reported that Mike and Maureen Merrill and Renee Hyde have stepped up to sponsor this year’s holiday toy drive.  More details on this will be shared later.
 
            Bell Ringing.  Bill Bolster has arranged two dates for our club members to participate in bell ringing to raise funds for the Salvation Army during the holidays.  We will be at Walmart on December 14^thand at Oliver’s Market on December 21^st.  Bill passed around a sheet for volunteers to sign up for a bell ringing shift.
 
            Rotary Foundation.  As the end of the tax year approaches, Brian Ling reminded us of the opportunity to make a tax-deductible donation to the Rotary Foundation which would count toward one’s Paul Harris recognition. Donations may be made by check delivered to Brian or preferably online through myrotary.org.
 
            Christmas Cards for Seniors.  Robin Schifando urged us to sign the Christmas greeting cards on the tables today.  The signed cards will be delivered to seniors at the holiday senior luncheon. 
 
            “Take a Chance Wine”.      Margaret Johnson announced she would be bringing miscellaneous wine of various quality levels to pre-holiday club meetings for purchase for whatever purpose—drinking, cooking, or discarding!  Any money raised will go the Toys for Tots.
 
Report on Club Board Meeting.  President Barbara gave a brief report on the club board meeting on November 18^th.
            Financial Report.  The board discussed the Club and Foundation budgets for 2025.  More details will be provided later.
            Community Service Grants.  The Club received 15 grant requests, which were reviewed by the board.  The recipients of grants will be announced later.
            Fundraiser.   The board intends to proceed with a fundraiser.  The location may be Russian River Vineyards, which has agreed to provide the venue at no cost to the Club.  It has been a challenge to recruit leadership for the event.  It may be possible for the Club to hire an event planner to lead the event.
            Nation’s Finest.  The board discussed Club support for this program.
                        Club Presidents.  Brian Ling described the succession plan for president of our club.  The most recent 5 presidents get together to recommend the next president to the Board for approval and referral to the club membership for a vote.  The president Elect for 2025-2026 is Larry McCabe.  The past presidents recently designated Renee Hyde to serve as president for 2026-2027 and Renee has accepted.  Yay!  Anyone interested in serving as president in the future should contact Brian.
 
            “Throw Your Friends Under the Bus”.  Renee acknowledged and recognized club member Jessica Dominguez of Exchange Bank for an article and photo that appeared in a recent edition of Sonomamagazine.  Jessica graciously contributed to the Club Foundation.
            Renee also recognized Pam Moulton for her recent extended vacation trip to various European destinations. Pam will give a full report when her travel companions can participate.
 
            Speaker.  Brian Ling introduced our speaker, Kristine Redko, District 5130 Governor Elect for 2025-2026.  Kristine provided a wealth of information about forming a new Rotary club and referred us to the on-line Rotary Learning Center for even more information.  There is no need to re-invent the wheel!
 
            The main theme is to craft a club that appeals to new Rotarians. Kristine suggested we consider the following elements:
1.     Club type
2.     Meeting format
3.     Club model
4.     Combination of attributes
5.     Infusion the new club with vibrancy, “The Magic of Rotary”
 
As to the Type of Club, there are 3 basic types:
1.     Rotary Club (traditional)
2.     Rotoract Club
3.     Satellite Club
To charter a new Rotary Club requires 20 or more members.  A Rotaract Club, typically with younger members (up until age 30), requires at least 12 members.  A Satellite Club, under the sponsorship of a parent Rotary Club, requires only 8 members and need not later become a Rotary Club.  A Satellite Club generally has a different time and location of meetings than its parent Rotary Club and may meet as few as 2 times a month.
 
            As to the Format, there are 3 basic formats:
1.     In-Person
2.     Online(virtual)
3.     Hybrid
After Covid, most clubs have moved to in-person meetings, using technology for remote speakers from time to time.
 
            As to Models, some common models are:
1.     Traditional
2.     Passport
3.     Cause-based
4.     Interest-based
5.     Corporate
6.     Alumni-based
7.     Service-based
8.     Language-based
 
As to attributes of a club, a way to explore what new Rotarians may prefer is to contact former Rotarians and ask why they left (time of meeting, too many meetings, opportunities for service) and invite them back to structure a club that would meet their needs.  Kristine was a charter member of the Rotary Club of Rancho Cotati, which started in 2007.  Later, when her club became too political, she became a charter member of the Rotary Club of Sonoma Mountain Twilight that meets in the evening twice a month with the expectation of engaging in service projects during the off weeks.
 
Kristine suggests that a few trailblazers from our club could be the catalyst for a new club in our area.  We can start by becoming aware of community needs that are not met and could be addressed by a new club operating in a different manner.  Add a little Rotary magic!
 
            Thank You.   President Barbara thanked Kristine for her insightful remarks and thanked by name all guests and all those who contributed to the success of the meeting.
 
                                                            With apologies for misspellings and mis-hearing,
                                                                        Your Scribe, Larry Mills
 

Nov. 12, 2024

Good morning Rotary Club of Windsor!

4 Way Test – Jo

Song:  Geoff Harrison – America the Beautiful verse 3 in honor of veterans!

Inspiration: Maureen Merrill – may we be happy, may we be healthy, may we be at peace and may we never, never, ever give up.

Visiting Rotarians: none

Visitors: Charter member rotary club of Windsor Judge Arthur Wick

Environmental moment:  No update today! 

Announcements- 

Calendar – 

Thanksgiving

Bell ringing (12/14 & 12/21)

Bell Manor lunch (12/17)

Rotary holiday party 12/14 (Merrill’s house) 

Toy and food drive (12/21)

Nations Finest event and thank you to all that helped set up, clean up, serve, etc.…! It was well received and appreciated.

JB – Councilman JB Leep!! Applause!!! Swearing in 12/4 but wants to explain vote – waiting for ½ the votes to come in but currently has 40%! Most of the votes should be in today

Larry – Last week at town council Larry presented Kincade commemorative coins to fire and police! The idea of the Kincade rock monument for the first responders came out of the conversations between Wally and Doug!  Doug never turned down a train ride, so there were many conversations on that train that led to this dedication! Larry presented the challenge coin box to Wally!  Wally and Doug had a good time talking about how to honor the community that saved our town! Thank you all for your support in making this happen! Calling out John Nelson, Steve Click, Larry Mills, Jeff, Pam, Monica, Robin, Robin, Sandy – committee that came up with ideas! Thank you, Larry!

Bill Bolster -Youth exchange. We interview students that want to travel internationally, and we sponsor those  that qualify. Every year in spring we make an announcement and do it again in the fall. We interviewed and selected Joshua M as outbound, but his counselor recommended, he put it off for a year. Outbound explanation – student goes to another country and stays for a year to learn culture, language, et… Audrey K applied for short term and will likely go to Spain or Italy.  She will go for 3 weeks to visit, and a family member will come back with her and spend 3 weeks here! 

Renee Hyde – The power of one – an exchange program with Africa. (Uganda specifically).  Rotary Clubs in Uganda are certified to send an outbound but are not certified to accept an inbound. So, this is a one-way exchange. Since we don’t have an outbound to send this year we will participate. There are a couple of levels – 1.  family pays all,  2. district help, 3. district pays all cost. We have selected option three where the district pays all the cost. Opportunity for us to work with their Rotary and work in their area to have broader impact in their community. Timeline August 2025. Some of the money from the golf tournament will be used for this.

Bill Bolster: Bell Ringing – In honor of Dick Bishop! Saturday 12/14 and Saturday 12/21. 10am – 6pm. Looking for volunteers to work 2-hour blocks to ring the bell and help collect money for the program. Look for the sign-up sheet!

Michael LeConte– Grand opening tasting notes on Friday from 4pm – 6pm. Please come down to support!

Pegi – 12/17 is the Bell Manor luncheon. If you can come, please sign up. Robin has collected Christmas cards for us to sign and to give to the seniors at the lunch!  Any leftovers will get sent to senior centers!

Monroe Hall-thank you and short video. 

Barbara – looking for leader for fundraiser. Planning on similar event as last year and she is close to finalizing the theme.  Video of one of the silent auction items – dinner and dance lessons! 

Guest presenter: Andy Wick spearheaded the creation of the Town of Windsor, co-chaired the committee to create the Windsor Unified School District, among other local accomplishments.  A longtime lawyer whose firm served school districts in the region; he became a Superior Court Judge in 2006.  His career included serving as president of the Sonoma County Bar Association, as the supervising judge of our Civil Division, the executive board of the California Judges’ Association, and sat on the First District Court of Appeal before. In retirement, Andy remains professionally active, currently working on a cold case team, work that surely revives skills learned in early adulthood when he was a police officer. 

The thing to know is that he has given his heart and soul to Windsor! Drew up all of the contracts and permits that were needed to become our own city incorporated! His young daughter Emily even noticed his dedication and said, “Daddy’s always working on Windsor stuff at night”! 

He is the emotional judge! He didn’t know we were going to be talking about things like salvation army – he remembers when he got his meals on the porch – so it DOES make a difference.

Mike and Maureen encouraged him to go for Superior Court Judge – so he did. Engaged Justice Jenkins to talk about inclusivity and diversity and equity even though Justice Jenkins had never heard of him. He was introduced and they had a conversation together – Justice Jenkins remembered him reaching out and asked how they could partner on inclusion. Put on a seminar and had 225 attendees.

The judicial branch in CA is very involved in diversity, equity and inclusion. They started the “conversation” around the state of California to engage and start discussions on the subject. He is leaving for Sacramento after the meeting to continue the conversations to ensure the discussions progresses. Judges in CA are typically older white men so this topic needs to be continued and so he needs to do something to change that. Go do something about it if you want to see change. You can make a difference in someone’s life if you take the time to stop and have the conversation. “Shut up and swim!”

Retired about 2 years ago. Didn’t think he had much to do. About 2 months ago he had dinner with Michael Conlin which helped him make a decision to get involved in cold case homicide work. Currently cold case homicide investigator for Sonoma County. Has solved about 4 cases and one is currently under arrest from a murder that occurred 42 years ago.

Questions! 

Maureen: When a judge does something – they put the president that appointed them in front of it. Supposed to keep politics out of it.

Andy: Good judges keep away from politics. Try not to associate people with stereotypes.

Tom: 19 years, 19,000 cases (1,000/year) – hearing a lot about backlog. What is the solution for this backlog?

Andy: out of touch with current caseloads, but every case has a right to be heard. You have 6-week trials with thousands of exhibits where you are awarding millions, and cases that are $2,500 that need the same attention. Need more judges. Typical cases 3-4 small claims cases that you had to hear. Took on responsibility for all Kinkade fires – had over 400 cases just from that. Multi-billions of dollars at stake and then had to go hear the small claims cases. Not surprised at the backlog, and you work as diligently as you can to get them done.

Larry: Cold cases – how do you go about gathering evidence that is 42 years old?

Andy: Depends on case. Calls people to gather information, review files, and try to tie people to Sonoma County with receipts, people, etc.… The case that was solved they had kept her clothes an found DNA that tied the male to the case.

Mike: We have something in common, he was assigned a cold case that he worked on for 6 months.

Mitch: Why was case not solved 42 years ago?

Andy: Current DNA evidence led to solve the case, which wasn’t available 42 years ago.

Susan: Can you address the issue of DNA and privacy?

Andy: Hard to address, tension between privacy and the government. Once you are in the system you are in the system. There are protections. 

Bill: How did you get into law.

Andy: Was a police officer first. Worked S. Central. When you drove into neighborhoods kids stopped playing basketball. A friend suggested law school. He was driving motorcycle when a lady ran a red light that ended his basketball career. Went to law school as a dare. Came in 3^rd in his class. Then went to medical school. They had a 2-year program for attorneys. After being an attorney, he ran into John Lewis and suggested they should make Windsor a city, then formed WUSD, chaired bond committee, built schools, and just kept going. 

Thank you to:

Greeter: Maureen Merrill
Set-up: Robin S. & Kristine S.
A/V set-up: Mike Raasch
Inspiration: Maureen Merrill
Song: Geoff Harrison
Scribe: Alison Huber
Photography: TBD
Host: Robin Schifano

Guests:

Andy Wick

Nov. 5, 2024

Good morning Rotary Club of Windsor.

Pledge of Allegiance led by Larry McCabe

Song:  Maureen Merrill – led the Star-Spangled Banner

Inspiration: Susan Cole “John Quincy Adams “Always vote for principle though you may be alone, you may cherish the sweet reflection that your vote is never lost.

Visiting Rotarians: 

Visitors: Eric Johnson, Hansel Auto Group/Leasing – Rod Montoya (US Navy vet) and Laine Montoya (yoga instructor) – Jeane Hackenberg

Environmental moment:  Boyd Morrison – Santa Rosa Tool Library, open Wednesday and Saturday, great resource for finding 1x tools.

Announcements- 

• John LeCave-Nation’s Finest event Saturday Nov. 9^th

Veterans Village BBQ lunch on Saturday.   We can use a little bit of help with setup and teardown, and a couple of side dishes would be welcome too.  Please confirm your attendance with John.

• Tomorrow there is a ceremony at the Windsor Town Council meeting to introduce the monument and give challenge coins to the Windsor Fire and Police Chiefs to share with their staff.
• Toy Drive is now in full swing and the Toy Drive barrel will be here every Tuesday if you would like to make a donation.  Cash contributions will be spent to buy more toys too.  Boxes are in need as well if you have any you’d like to provide instead of recycling.
• New Club – Boyd, Brian, and Maureen is the board sub-committee meeting to discuss our options and timeline regarding a possible new club in Windsor.  If you are interested or have questions, please contact them.
• Kurt Mitchler - Presented a copy of Navy League Magazine in honor of our Veterans Day celebrations.
• Barabara - Thank you to Brian Ling for representing our club with a beautiful eulogy for Doug Williams at his memorial last week.  He hit all the important points.  Today is Doug’s birthday!

Today is a special meeting designed to honor and thank our service men and women who put themselves on the line to uphold, defend, and advocate for human rights here at home and abroad and for fighting to uphold our constitution and democracy. 

1^st Part of Program:

• I would like to invite those of you who brought a photo of a veteran in your life to come up to the mic, introduce that person, and put their photo on the board.

Many members brought up their pictures and fond tributes to their family veterans.

2nd Part of Program: 

Club Member Veterans share something about being a veteran, impact on their lives etc.

• Tom Boylan – Specialist E-4 Tom Boylan 1968-1971.  Read by John Hackenberg.  Trained and served in Viet Nam on a helicopter crew and the weaponry.  Ended up with high security clearance and finished his service on homeland.
• Mike Merrill – USMC Capt. Viet Nam 1969-1970.  Judge Advocate General:  Navy and Marine Corps legal.  Joined corp after finishing law school at USF.  Served as JAG officer in da Nang, Viet Nam.  Honor, courage, and commitment are the core tenants of the USMC then, and to this day.
• Kristin Koszewski – MasterAt-Arms MA1, served in Navy for 10 years, 2000-2010.  Served in Guam while surviving a horrific motorcycle accident, then to Greece, then to the USS Carl Vincent, where she became a corrections officer in the brig, served in Persian Gulf, and finished her career in San Diego.
• Bill Bolster – Lt, US Navy US Submarine Service 1965-1969.  Joined service at his mother’s urging before draft to allow him to choose his preferred avenue of service, the US Navy.  Graduated from college in his new Navy uniform.  First experience in leadership and leading a team of men relying on him.  During career served in many officer roles on his submarines.
• Brian Williams – Corporal USMC 1996-2000.  Wanted to join Navy to travel the world and ended up serving with USMC stateside.
• John Hackenburg – Active Duty 1969-1979 and Naval reserves 1979-1996 retiring as Navy Captain.  Explained the strategy behind flying in formation for safe landings in inclement weather and/or loss of system controls on the aircraft.

In closing: Election Day is a sacred tradition in our country that I hold dear.   The importance was instilled in me from a very young age.  I consider this election to be the most critical of my lifetime.  I am holding it in my heart that it is a day that the people in our country stay safe and that democracy prevails.

Thank you to:

Thank you to our veterans  John, Mike, Kristin, Brian, Bill and Tom for sharing a bit of their story today.

Thank you to those of you who brought photos to share.

I look forward to seeing you on Saturday for bagpipes and barbeque.

Greeter: Joan Mora
Set-up: Alissa Johnson
A/V set-up: Jose Diego
Inspiration: Susan Cole
Song: Maureen Merrill and Susan Cole
Scribe: Brian Ling
Photography: Sue Nelson (or TBD)
Host:  Boyd Morrison
 

Good Day fellow Rotarians and friends and family who are reading our weekly bulletin. Today’s minutes are from TUESDAY, October 15, 2024
Four Way Test: Lead by Susan Cole
INSPIRATION: Michael Ragsdale stated that normally inspirations come from famous people of history that changed the world, but shared in addition to those people, most of his inspiration has come from members of this club. During his medical issues and all the medical treatments, his treatment by the Rotary Club members was the best he could have ever had.
SONG: Larry Mills lead us in a song from the Rotary song book: “This Land is Your Land”
No VISITING ROTARIANS
GUESTS OF ROTARIANS: JB Leep introduced Tim Ricard, Economic Development Manager of the Town of Windsor, Maureen Merrill introduced Eric Johnson, Director of Equipment Leasing& Financing at Hansel Leasing.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Honoring Veterans in our club: special tribute meeting Tuesday Nov. 5th. Additional information will be emailed.
FREAKY FUNDRAISER! October 19 th , 7pm – 10pm Support the Windsor Holiday Food and Toy Drive.
ARUNDO DONAX removal day is October 26 th , 8:30am-noon, Information and sign up: www.russianriverkeeper.org/rotarybadgerpark
NATIONS FINEST BAGPIPE LUNCHEON: Nov. 9 th
ROTARY PEACE CONFERENCE: January 24 th - 26 th , 2025 Sonoma County -Rohnert Park Learnmore and Register: Peace25.org
President Barbara shared with us Doug is home from the hospital, he is not doing well. A meal train has been set up, we are keeping Doug & Jodi in our prayers. Doug has since passed.

SPEAKER:
JB Leep introduced Tim Ricard, Economic Development Manager for the Town of Windsor. Tim has been working as the Town of Windsor Economic Development Manager since 2019
Tim went over several projects that are happening in Windsor. He spoke on how things changed for the local business during COVID and how that has affected economic strategy moving forward, stating, “A healthy economy creates a healthy community.”
Tim shared that a Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) program has been created.
(BRE) is the foundation of “economic gardening”. The focus is on engaging with business leaders to identify, solve, track and analyze key business challenges and assistance.
Tim works as a Business Ombudsman; he is the lead town contact and liaison with prospective business. He troubleshoots local licensing, permitting and development issues and provides assistance to startup underserved community.
Tim has been working with local business, and the community of Windsor as a new Economic Development Strategic Plan is developed. He encourages everyone to help shape the future of our community by sharing your thoughts in the Economic Development Strategic Plan survey. https://www.townofwindsor.ca.gov/1499/Economic-Development-Strategic-Plan-2024www.townofwindsor.ca.gov
Coffee with Tim Ricard Wednesday Nov. 27, 2024 8:15am – 8:45am
Windsor Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center 9001 Windsor Rd. Windsor

President Barbara thanked our speaker, guests and Rotary members that assisted in making our meeting possible.
Meeting adjourned 8:30am
 

Oct. 8, 2024

Minutes for September 24, 2024
 
The meeting opened with an enthusiastic “Good morning Rotary Club of Windsor by President Barbara!
 
Flag Salute was led by a visiting Rotarian, David Mark Raymond and JB took the lead for the  song “Yankee Doodle Dandy.”
 
Inspiration presented by our President, Barbara with “Wear a Smile, You are doing something good in the world.”  This was written by Interact co-president and used on their clean-up work day.
 
We had one Visiting Rotarian , David Mark Raymond from the Rotary Club of Sebastopol Sunrise.  No visitors today!! Our Environmental moment  was an overview of “Sip , Return and Repeat” and was introduced by JB. He explained that it is an  experimental system of using reusable cups(made of plastic)  that are distributed when ordering coffee (can’t remember the community where this is happening!).  There is a barcode on the cups such that they are able to be tracked. Once returned to specific bins, they are cleaned and returned to participating shops!
 
 
 
Announcements-
 
Foundation dinner – Tom Boylan announced the upcoming (October 5^th)  Foundation event which will be held at Charlies, in Windsor.  He made note that it is going to be different from events of the past in that it will be held mid-day(12:30 – 3:30pm).  Tickets are available and opportunities will be given for celebration and conviviality!!
 
The Windsor day parade, where Monica asked that we wear our Rotary t-shirts (of which she had some available at the Club!!) is being held on Saturday, September 28^th!!  If you are interested – come to the WHS to walk with the other Rotarians and Interactors at 9:00am.  Art will have our Balloon up and ready to go!. We will be carrying (home-made)  signs touting all the amazing things that we do for the world and community!!  Please join us!  By the way, thanks to Renee and her team, the Rotary Bar will be open!
 
Larry McCabe- reminded us of the Freaky fundraiser, which is earning money for the Holiday centered Food and Toy drive. The “Halloween themed” event will be held on October 19^th at the Odd Fellows Hall.  There are Sponsor Tables which can be purchased for $1000 and hold 8 people!!  Monica announced that she is going as a TORNADO!!  
 
Larry also gave us an update on the Kincade monument  which is moving along very well!  They have secured a great site for the monument near Foothill Park.  He share the Challenge Coins that were created by the team.  He noted that the first coin was given to Doug Williams, who spearheaded this idea!  The Commemorative Coins will be given to the First Responders who saved our Town!  Larry is looking into an appropriate ceremony to present the coins!
 
Sue Nelson reviewed the events at the Fire department dedication ceremony .   She noted that there was a ribbon cutting event at the Firewise Demonstration Garden that our Rotary club funded in 2021-2022.  She reminded us that we gave $7500 toward the cause.  At the time, we had a big HANDS ON event to clear away the brush and other “stuff.”  She also gave thanks to Diana Elsbree for money contributed towards the current landscaping. She described the plants as drought resistant. She also indicated that all the plants are identified such that others might wants to duplicate some of the concepts behind this new garden!
 
Ed Turner announced that Charlies will now be open for Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays!
 
Visiting Rotarian David Mark-Raymond reviewed the basic tenets and history of the Festival of brotherhood.   Pam Moulton presented checks from the Club in support of 6 different projects, which included scholarships, Canine spaying, kitchen remodel, electric bike for an isolated clinic for the indigenous tribe and money to assist in creating a garden for cancer victims.  He made note that the Festival generally presents PROJECTS form which participants can choose where the money will go.  The next Festival will be held from March 22, 2025 through (about) April 2, 2025.  Destinations will be both to Guadalajara and Tepic.  More information to follow!!
 
Today’s speaker: Larry Mills-Dispute resolution Spectrum
 
Larry, a member of our club, gave a comprehensive review of the range of options that are available to resolve challenging legal situations.  From Seattle, he noted that he had been an attorney for years and moved towards solving issues outside of court. He works for JAMS(Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services).  He made note that there are 400 offices of this nature around the country. He described the differences between ARBITRATION and MEDIATION highlighting that while they are both manners in which to resolve issues, they are DISTINCTLY different!  His area of expertise in resolving issues from business to business.
 
He reviewed the mediation process by which he gets involved. He indicated that he is “sought out” whereupon a date to meet is made. He receives information on the dispute which is generally confidential and which he is able to review in advance. He oftentimes will engage in a pre-mediation conference with the attorney representing the parties.  The mediator makes the opening statement and then the disputing parties are separated. The process then starts with each side, via the mediator, attempt to come to consensus.  Upon completion, there is a Memo of Settlement,  Of these types of cases, he made note that 98% of the settled cases, never go to trial!
 
With ARBITRATION – he indicated that  is it more of a trial like atmosphere.  Most of the time it is held in a conference room with an attorney and there are witnesses that participate.  At the end of an arbitration, there is a “winner and a loser.”  He made note that with an  arbitration there is a lot more risk involved.
 
Larry took the time to indicate that on the Dispute Resolution Spectrum, one can move from IGNORE to TRIAL.  He also reviewed the issues behind binding and non-binding resolutions.
 
He referenced the book by Roger Fisher and William Ury “Getting To Yes” which addressed negotiation through four areas:
 

1. Separate the people from the problem
2. Focus on interests not positions
3. Create options for mutual gain and
4. Insist on using objective material to come to a resolution

When asked how he got into the field, he mentioned that because of a backlog in the 1980’s he decided to offer to mediate cases.  At the time there was no payment for this.  There was also a two year backlog with civil cases!
 
When asked about issues related to Cognitive Bias, he noted that there is extensive training on this and assistance to watch for traps.  At the core, he suggested that  one must follow the law and the facts of the law (per Merrick Garland).
 
He reminded everyone that the success of this process of mediation is that of acknowledging the need to vent and to get past any emotion before you can find resolution! THANK YOU , LARRY!!
 
 
 
President Barbara expressed her Thank yous to the following people:
 
Greeter: Kristine
Set-up: Robin/Kristine
A/V set-up: Mike Raasch
Inspiration: Barbara
Song and environmental moment: JB Leep
Scribe: Pam Moulton
 and photography: Sue Nelson
 
She also expressed thanks to David Mark Raymond for coming to visit and present on the Festival of Brotherhood and for answering the questions related to funding, etc.  the meeting was over at 8:32am
 
Thank you,
 
Pam Moulton, scribe

September 17th meeting

Sept. 3, 2024