June 4, 2021 Riverside Park Flower Planting


Ron Bedell, Marilyn Bedell, Cindy Jerome, Richard Wallace, Cal Wolfe and our leader Will Koppenheffer, planted flowers at Riverside Park.  Hopefully in a few weeks they will grow and flourish.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
June 4, 2021 Riverside Park Flower Planting 2021-06-04 04:00:00Z 0

Program for June 18, 2020

Dan Weeks - Revision Energy, Co-owner and Director of Market Development.  ReVision has offices in Enfield and Brentwood, NH.
 
Dan Weeks
Dan Weeks
 
Dan Weeks said he is a 12th generation Granite Stater.  His wife is from South Africa and they have 3 children.  He and his family live in Nashua as a mid-way point between where Dan works and his wife’s job in Boston.
 
ReVision has just completed 6 solar projects for the City of Lebanon.  Their most recent project was just completed at Mascoma Meadows:  a “ground mount” installation saving each family in the mobile home park about $300/year in energy.
 
Dan used a slide show and a rapidly-paced narrative to present a waterfall of information bearing on how “New Hampshire’s Energy Future” should and must include a strong reliance on solar and wind power.  Dan said that the “275 co-owners of ReVision want to preserve the beauty of NH.” 
 
Here are some highlights of Dan’s comprehensive talk:
 
PAST:  NH’s energy past was about local distributed, and renewable sources
  • Hydropower in Manchester powered the Amoskeag Mills.
  • Biomass
  • Wood heating in homes
  • Horsepower
PRESENT:  At present, NH’s power is mostly centralized and non-renewable, going toward transportation and residential uses (each about 32%), commercial (22%) and industrial (14.5%). Renewables constitute 19% of the mix; 81% from non-renewables like petroleum 44%, nuclear 33% and natural gas 17%.
 
Within the renewable sources as of 2019:  biomass 73% (diminishing today because of plant shutdowns), hydro 20%, wind and solar following.
 
Costs of energy non-renewables has been going up – gasoline at the pump and electric rates have been going up about 3%/year on average.
 
There are many indirect costs of the current energy system with its carbon emissions.  Surface temperatures around the world have increased about 2 degrees F since 1900.  Staying on the current trajectory would have temperatures rising as much as 6-12 degrees F depending on how we deal with fossil fuel consumption.
 
Also, average winter high temperatures have risen faster than overall temperatures.  We have also seen an increase of 71% in intensive rainfall events (4” in 24 hours) from 1958-2012.
 
NH’s summer climate has shifted to what New York City used to experience. Sea level rise for MA and NH means less land can be utilized. Human health impacts also have worsened. Add in Hampton Beach street flooding, moose tick infestations, maple heat stress, and declining snow fall.
 
FUTURE:  Dan sees a return to local, distributed, and clean energy sources as the pathway toward slowing global warming’s ill effects.Power potential available on earth from the Sun is a huge 23,000 terawatt hours/year; wind could produce 70-120 TW/year.
 
 
Program for June 18, 2020 2020-06-19 04:00:00Z 0

Chief Richard Mello, Lebanon Police Dept.  

Mr. Mello is a lifelong New Hampshire Police Officer having begun his career with the City of Concord in February 1993.  His most recent employment has been with the Town of Hollis, where he has worked since 2002, advancing from Patrol Officer up through the ranks to Lieutenant, which is second in command for the Department.

 

Some of the Lebanon Police Department Community Involvement Programs:

 

Annual Golf Tournament -The Lebanon Police Department hosts an annual golf tournament each July to raise funds to support youth and community programs. We look forward to corporations, local businesses and individuals in the Upper Valley joining us and making this tournament a success each year.

  1. Bike Rodeo- Lebanon Officers participated in the annual Jim Wechsler Bike Rodeo and register bicycles, talked with community member and more.

    Coffee With a Cop -Coffee with a Cop provides a unique opportunity for community members and officers to come together in an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues, build relationships, to ask questions, learn more about the department’s work in Lebanon’s neighborhoods, and drink coffee.

    K9 Awareness Day-The Lebanon Police Department host several K9 teams from New Hampshire and Vermont and increase awareness of the important work our K9 teams do while raising money for K9 related projects including the Vermont Police Canine Association, where our teams regularly train.

    National Night Out -National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, better places to live.

    Special Olympics Partnership- The Lebanon Police Department participates in various ways to support the Special Olympics
Chief Richard Mello, Lebanon Police Dept. JoAnn Lemieux 2017-09-11 04:00:00Z 0

Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital

In 2014, under the leadership of President and CEO Susan E. Mooney, APD completed a strategic planning process which will guide the organization for the ensuing 3–5 years. Core elements of the plan include four new initiatives which will further strengthen the lasting relationships we build with our patients:

  • A Multi-Specialty Clinic that will serve as a new home for most outpatient clinics, and will be specifically built around the needs of patients;
  • A Business Health and Therapies program that enables employers to reduce health care costs while improving care;
  • A Specialty Surgery program in Orthopaedics and Neurosurgery that minimizes inpatient hospitalization and maximizes successful outcomes; and
  • A Senior Care program that helps more seniors in the Upper Valley age with dignity in their homes, and without expensive institutional care.

Construction of the 44,000 square foot Multi-Specialty Clinic began in the fall of 2016 and is expected to be complete within one year.

APD currently employs approximately 500 individuals throughout the Upper Valley of Vermont and New Hampshire.

Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital JoAnn Lemieux 2017-09-07 04:00:00Z 0

Lebanon Rotary Spoke_July 20_2017

Posted by JoAnn Lemieux
The Spoke
Newsletter of the Rotary Club of Lebanon, New Hampshire
 
Date: 7/20/2017
Called to order by: President Suellen Griffin
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: Oh Spacious Skys        
 
Invocation: Rick Dyment - Senator McCann was diagnosed with brain cancer. A moment of silence
 
Song Leader:              Song:  
 
Good Works: Jean Flaherty-Wulpern - has been nursing her whole life, now concentrating in Geriactics . She started as a volunteer with the Red Cross and as a Candy Stripper. She still visits local nursing homes and gets a lot back rom volunteering in nursing homes,
 
Rotary Minute: Angela Johnson relayed the History of Rotary - "First Facts" - Herber J. Taylor, president of the Rotary Club of Chicago. In 1932, during this business crisis wrote the The 4 Way Test .
 
Visiting Rotarians:  :Margaret Stacey-Nelson from Lebanon Riverside Club. Wanted to visit the Lebanon Rotary and welcomed all to visit the Riverside Club. 
 
Guests: Ron Carr - Kevin Gould presented Ron a Paul Harris Fellowship award.
 
Raffle: 
 
Annoucements:
Jennifer Grant - her firm is sponsoring Brewfest on September 30th.
Paul Tierney - The Innovation Committee is hold a meeting on Monday. Please send an suggestions to Paul 
Bill Babineau - Walter Hughes will be the Speaker at the July 27th meeting and will be discussing his   Project in Ghana, Africa for a number of years. Bill and Debbie will be hosting for Walter in his home in Lebanon for a meet and greet. All are invited. Bring a side dish.  
 
  
Brags: 
 
Speaker:  Ernst Oidtmann introduced his son, Max Oidtmann, the  speaker.
 

In March 2014, Max his Ph.D. in History and East Asian Languages from Harvard University and  is a U.S. historian of Late Imperial China (1368-1912) and Inner Asia (Islamic Central Asia, Tibet, Mongolia, and Manchuria). He also is interested in modern China and the affairs of minority ethnicities in the People’s Republic of China. An assistant professor of history at Georgetown University, he has taught Asian history – as well as specialized courses on the history of China, Islam and Muslims in East Asia, Tibet, and comparative studies of empire and colonialism – at Georgetown's School of Foreign Service in Doha, Qatar, since 2013n March 2014, he received his Ph.D. in History and East Asian Language.

He spoke of his life and teaching in the "Beverly Hills" compound in Qatar, with his wife Jennie.  
 
Submitted by: JoAnn Lemieux
 
Lebanon Rotary Spoke_July 20_2017 JoAnn Lemieux 2017-07-20 04:00:00Z 0

Annual Pie Buffet_2017

Posted by V. Bruce Pacht

 

This 4th of July Pie Buffet, the Lebanon Rotary Club and Lebanon Riverside Rotary Club  provided lots more pies and we increased attendance (that is, we increased the number of tickets turned in at the door) by at least 10% to around 440 individuals, yet we still ran out of pies!

 

The goals of the event have been three:

 

1.  Raise significant funds for the global eradication of polio through Rotary's PolioPlus program.

2.  Operate a fun fundraiser in which all members of both clubs can participate.

3.  Offer a family-friendly fun event to the people of the City of Lebanon and surrounding towns to enjoy on the morning of Independence Day.
 

Annual Pie Buffet_2017 V. Bruce Pacht 2017-07-13 04:00:00Z 0

Lebanon  Rotary Spoke_June 22_2017

Posted by Jamie Whyte on Jun 26, 2017
The Spoke
Newsletter of the Rotary Club of Lebanon, New Hampshire
 
 
Date: 6/22/2017
 
Called to order by: Pres Kevin
 
Opening Song: ROTARY
 
Patriotic Song: My Country Tis of Thee
 
Invocation: Steve Christy
 
Song Leader: Bruce   Song: The Eddystone Light
 
Visiting Rotarians:
 
Guests:
     
 
Raffle: Valerie…no luck
 
Announcements:
 
Bruce – Pie Event, participation is important to continue the success of event
Lebanon Rotary received – Sustainability Award
 
Richard Wallace inducted as newest member into the club
 
Brags:
 
Rotary Minute:
 
Good Works: John Blodgett – only person to serve twice as Rotary President
 
Speaker: Carol Williams Joan Holcombe
 
Nepal Odyssey – the plight of a remote village – Carol & Joan travelled to Nepal in April 2015
Called themselves the TinTin Gang
Went to teach student English and teach teachers innovative teaching strategies.
Earth quack happened while there. Earth quack lasted 53 seconds. 43 aftershocks. 9000 people died. Registered 7.8 on richter scale.
 
Submitted by: Jamie Whyte
Lebanon Rotary Spoke_June 22_2017 Jamie Whyte 2017-06-26 04:00:00Z 0

Lebanon Rotary Spoke_ June 15th_2017

The Spoke
Newsletter of the Rotary Club of Lebanon, New Hampshire
 
 
Date: June 15, 2017
 
Called to order by: President Kevin
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: My Country ‘Tis of Thee
 
Invocation: Paul Boucher (for Lorraine)        
 
Song Leader: Garlan Hoskin                         Song: Bury Me Not On The Lone Prairie, and Buffalo Gals!
 
Visiting Rotarians:  None                
 
 
Guests:  None
 
Raffle: This week Willy came up with a question that stumped us all about a woolen item that cost $400 to make in the 1820’s and $21 Million to restore.  Jon B. said American Flag, but that wasn’t specific enough.  Linda Copp won with ‘Star Spangled Banner’ that flew over Fort McHenry. Bartola won the raffle but drew the wrong card.
 
Announcements:
* Two weeks until the 4th of July Pie Buffet.  Each Club member needs to sell 5 tickets and bake 3 pies. Contact John Yacavone, Rob Taylor, or Philip Rentz for more information. Be sure to share the pie sale poster on FaceBook!
* Steve Whitman attended the Annual Atlanta Rotary Convention and was impressed by the international presence. Bill Gates spoke about the Gates Foundation commitment to eradicating polio. They matched all the funds that Rotary raised to fight polio.  Next year the Rotary Convention will be in Toronto.
* Paul T.: Listen Dinner scheduled for July 10th, volunteers needed.
* Sue-Ellen: Brew-Fest is scheduled for September 9th.  Marion, Kevin, and Sue Ellen are organizing and need volunteers – several hands were raised to volunteer.
 
Brags:
Marion S.: Her daughter graduated 7th grade and she celebrated her 3rd anniversary with her husband.
Rick D.: Had to book a flight for a passenger who needed to make an international flight only to find that there was a delay in Boston and had to re-book the passenger on a bus.  The passenger was very appreciative despite not getting a refund on the plane ticket.
Linda Copp was happy to announce that he baby Grand-Daughter was recovering from an E.coli infection.
 
 
Rotary Minute: Jamie Whyte gave us the highlights of an article in the June Rotary Magazine about Rotary Fellowships.
 
Good Works: Dan A. told about his work as an Environmental Action volunteer many years ago while working on his Master’s degree. They organized the first recycling center in New York complete with crusher. They developed markets for the recycling material. Eventually there were 61 recycling centers. Dan was also involved in Sea-Side Industries which helped individuals with mental illness find work and become self-sufficient. Thirty-three hundred people went through the program.
 
Speaker:  No Speaker this week, instead we held committee meetings:
 
Community Service Committee: Kevin reported that they are looking at some easy projects such as a coat-drive for children and adults. This is a project that could be coordinated with the InterAct Clubs.  They are also looking at projects with Paul Coates at Lebanon Rec. Linda C. mentioned establishing sun-screen dispensers at locations where people need sun-screen.
 
Molica Fund: Steve W. said that they are continuing to look for good benefactors with an interest in music.
 
Membership: Paul B.reported that with the new Richard Wallace, membership will be 40 and we will qualify for the President’s citation.
 
Grants and Financial Operations: Don M. reported that with the over-spent budget, we are deferring new projects to next fiscal year.
 
Innovation Committee: Paul T. reported that he will be chairing the committee next year and is actively looking for members.
 
In closing, Sue-Ellen mentioned that she will be reviewing Committee Chairs and membership at the June 29th meeting.  We then recited the Four-Way Test and adjourned the meeting.
 
Submitted by: Philip Rentz
Lebanon Rotary Spoke_ June 15th_2017 Philip Rentz 2017-06-19 04:00:00Z 0

Lebanon Rotary Spoke _June 8_2017

Posted by Valerie Armstrong
The Spoke
Newsletter of the Rotary Club of Lebanon, New Hampshire
 
Date: 06/08/2017
Called to order by: President Kevin
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful         
 
Invocation: Jennifer
 
Song Leader: Valerie             Song:  Carolina in the Morning
 
Good Works: Jon Yacavone – 1984, david’s house was founded in a backstreet in Hanover. Lots of Rotary projects done and appreciated over the years. Specifically remembered, our club went to hanover club and collectively put a fence up around David’s house. Davids house has seen 114,000 people over the years.
 
Rotary Minute: Steve Christie – In June issue of Rotarian, sidebar of 2017 Rotary convention. June 10th-14th.This is historic convention… The 1917 convention was held in Atlanta, arch clump in a Baptist Tabernacle. Now it will be held near the original location in a convention center. Return to Atlanta is to mark Centennial birthday.
 
Visiting Rotarians: None
 
Guests: None
 
Raffle: Kevin Gould won, but did not draw the queen
 
Announcements: Changeover Dinner at the Hotel Coolidge, June 30th, Friday.
Don: went to Rotary district conference and is looking for sponsors for 8 children of Tanzania.
Phil handed out tickets for the Pie Buffet, to be held at the Senior Center on July 4th. All Rotarians are encouraged to make 3 HOME made pies for this event.
 
Brags: Steve Usle, reported good and bad news… 4 club members represented at Eastman Golf outing and came in last out of 20 teams.. the good news is there was a prize for coming in last!
Rick Wallace: Valley News thanked Rotary for entering the golf contest because that meant THEY didn’t come in last!
Jamie: Visited son in Washington enjoying monument, slowly selling puppies, one will go to Maine as search and rescue
Jennifer: put in a $1 to follow up on Jon’s Yacavone's good works report for David’s House. When Jennifer’s daughter had an accident 3 years ago in Feb, she was released during a storm and David’s house put them up for the night so that they didn’t have to drive in the bad weather.
Will: flew Washington to see son and also visited national parks in PA.
JoAnn: Happy Dollar: 40th HS reunion… She is stunned she is still alive!
Thanks extended to Bakers Crossing clean up helpers. – Steve Usle
Forest: Feeling silly at breakfast table and fiddling with pills… Broke into made up song including his medication name… “Returned happy from fishing trip to Maine.
 
Speaker:  Will introduced speaker : Fran Hatchett, lifelong resident of Lebanon… President of Lebanon Historical Society and a member of the sons of civil war auxiliary.  The City of Lebanon, NH has a number of Civil War veterans buried in its cemeteries, whose graves have nothing that recognizes their Civil War Service. . Government would not pay for military recognition so they started a fund for it and solicited local businesses. We have Lebanon Vets buried all over the country with no marker.
 
Fran introduced a program in 2013 called "Adopt a Civil War Veteran". There were 100, and now there are 33 left and the cost is approximately $300-$325 to adopt a stone. Ricker Funeral Home provides the stones at cost and places them in the cemetery as their donation toward the adoption program. Most of the young men in the town went to war at this time.
 
Submitted by: Valerie Armstrong
Lebanon Rotary Spoke _June 8_2017 Valerie Armstrong 2017-06-09 04:00:00Z 0

Lebanon Rotary Spoke_May 25_2017

Posted by JoAnn Lemieux on May 30, 2017

 

The Spoke
Newsletter of the Rotary Club of Lebanon, New Hampshire
 
                                                                                     Date: 5/25/17
 
 
Called to order by: President Kevin
 
Opening Song:  R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
 
Patriotic Song: Oh Spacious Skies
 
Invocation: Garlan  Haskins
 
Song Leader:    Westin Green                                   Song: "Father's Old Grey Whiskers" 
 
Visiting Rotarians: None
 
GuestsNone
 
Good Works: Steve Whitman - 4 Lebanon High School students were accepted into RYLA. All are eager to participate.
 
Rotary Minute: None
 
Raffle:  Mike Weins and still no Queen of Hearts
 
Announcements:
Norm Wakely's  Memorial is at Cardigan Mountain on June 4th. All Rotarians are invited to commemorate this longstanding Rotarian.
 
Phil Rentz and Jon Yacavone _ The Annual Pie Sale will be on July 2nd at the Senior Center. Last year the participation was so great that they ran out of pies . Last year there were 410 people attending.  The committee are now asking that each Rotarians make 3 HOMEMADE pies for this event or think about making a $45 donation. The pies can be dropped off at Jakes Market in Lebanon. Also, Phil will be handing out tickets for each member  to sell before the event.  Between Lebanon-Riverside and our club, more than $6,000 was raised  to benefit the Polio Plus Project and the Gates Foundation will make some matching contributions.      
 
Brags: 
 
Jane Mason - fined herself for her "spacing" her Club obligation.
Garland H's son, Christopher a member of the Hanover Rotary Club is working on the Z (sorry, didn't catch that) & Zelia Founation project.
Rick D. - celebrated their 37th wedding anniversary!   
Forrest Cole's mentioned that his new position as a limo driver is interfering with his sleep patterns.  
 
Future Activities: 
 
June 1 meeting will be at Marion carter Home, on Bank St across from the Library.  We will have a brown bag lunch for purchase.
 
Change Over dinner will be on Friday June 29, at a location TBD.
 
Speaker:  Linda Copp, Ballet 101
 
Ballet began with King Louis XIV in the 1400's in Italy, but the ballet movement got a great boost in the 1700's in France. The Czars of Russia embraced ballet.
Linda demonstrated the basic gear of the ballet dancer and the most important is the ballet shoes.   She also mentioned that  with the 5th position, the dancer can then go anywhere. She recommended that anyone interested with more information with the history of ballet to read "Apollos's Angels, the History of Ballet". 
 
Submitted by : JoAnn Lemieux
 
     
                                 
 
Lebanon Rotary Spoke_May 25_2017 JoAnn Lemieux 2017-05-30 04:00:00Z 0

Lebanon Rotary Spoke_May 18th_2017

Posted by Suellen Griffin on May 23, 2017

 

The Spoke
Newsletter of the Rotary Club of Lebanon, New Hampshire
 
                                                                                     Date: 5/18/17
 
 
Called to order by: President Kevin
 
Opening Song:  R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
 
Patriotic Song: My Country Tis of Thee
 
 
Invocation: John Blodgett
 
Song Leader:    Steve Christy                                   Song:  Anchors Aweigh
 
Visiting Rotarians: None
 
Guests: Emma Peterson, Daughter of Jennifer.
 
 
Raffle:  Steve Christy pulled his own number and still no Queen of Hearts
 
 
Announcements:
Paul Boucher: Paid $1 for each veteran; his granddaughter graduated from HS in Arizona; he will be celebrating his 47th wedding anniversary on June 27.
 
Phil Rentz:  There is a Business After Hours tonight at his office on Mechanic St.
 
Rick Dyment: Shared a story about an airline passenger headed to the country of Lebanon ending up at Lebanon Airport, NH.
 
Jennifer Grant:  Her daughter, Emma, won third highest honor for her HS presentation.
 
Steve Christy: Acknowledged Don Rowell for an article he wrote for the Valley News.
 
Steve Usle:  Join him in Clean-up of Baker’s crossing.  Let him know if you can participate.
                     Requesting contributions for train being built for CHAD.
 
Brags:  Paul Tierney:  Acknowledged Steve Whitman for his outstanding job at the Mascoma HS induction of the Interact Club.
 
Rotary Minute: None
Good Works: None
 
Future Activities: 
 
June 1 meeting will be at Marion carter Home, on Bank St across from the Library.  We will have a brown bag lunch.
 
Change Over dinner will be on Friday June 29, at a location TBD.
 
Speaker:  Club Committee
 
Social Committee- John Yacavone reporting:
Upcoming events_ Change Over, Boat Trip, Pie Sale Holiday raffle and Brew Fest
 
Youth Services – Steve Whitman Reporting:
Interact Dinner was a success.
 
Community Service _ Paul Tierney reporting:
Lebanon Riverside is willing to work on joint projects with Lebanon.
 
InternationalJoAnn Lemieux Reporting
JoAnn is still working on the Global Grant application for the Clean Water Project in Guanna. She is considering to participate with the project in October this year.  
 
Submitted by  Suellen Griffin
 
     
                                 
 
Lebanon Rotary Spoke_May 18th_2017 Suellen Griffin 2017-05-23 04:00:00Z 0

Lebanon_Spoke_May 11th_2017

Posted by Rich Wallace on May 11, 2017

 

The Spoke
Newsletter of the Rotary Club of Lebanon, New Hampshire
 
Spoke – May 11
 
 
Meeting called to order by President Kevin
 
R-O-T-A-R-Y was sung
 
Patriotic song: O’ Beautiful
 
Invocation: Given by Paul T.
 
Song & Song Leader: Evan L. led us in two songs:
 
“I want a girl just like the girl that married dear old Dad”.
“There is a tavern in the town”
 
No visiting Rotarians
 
Guests: Angela Nelson from A.M. Piesch our accountant
 
Proposed Member: Angela Nelson from A.M. Piesch has been proposed for membership. The board has approved and the membership is hereby notified. Comments/questions should be directed to either Paul Boucher or Kevin Gould.
 
Raffle: Bill B. answered the question, Garlan did not get the right card.
 
Rotary Minute:
Steve Whitman read to us about the 50th anniversary of the Club in 1973.
 
Good Works:
Steve Usle talked about the club’s string of pearls project and the Baker’s Crossing area which the club works to clean-up each year. This year’s clean-up with be Saturday May 20.
 
Announcements:
 
District Conference is June 2-4 at Loon Resort
Thanks to all for Trail clean-up on Saturday
 
Brags:
 
Jamie – His dog Josie had 8 healthy puppies
Bruce – Coordinating his 50th reunion for class at Dartmouth
Don M – Going to attend his 50th High School reunion.
Forrest – Spent day with son Eric in the North Country
Bruce – Son Jessie in Leadership Upper Valley Class this coming year, other son getting better with cars
Jennifer – Visited stepson Cody in Pittsburgh
Paul T. – Tried to organize green up day in Norwich was washed out
Rich – Daughter Brittney received Service Award from Paul School of Business at UNH
John – Noticed our fisherman was wearing a tie.
 
 
Program/Speaker: Paul Boucher told us of his attempts at college and the jobs he had over the year up to his retirement last year from the Chamber of Commerce.
Lebanon_Spoke_May 11th_2017 Rich Wallace 2017-05-11 04:00:00Z 0

Lebanon Spoke_April 27th_2017

Posted by Dan Nash on Apr 21, 2017

 

The Spoke
Newsletter of the Rotary Club of Lebanon, New Hampshire
 
 
Date: 27April 2017
 

Called to order by: PP Bruce

 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: O Beautiful for Spacious Skies
 
Invocation: PP Bruce
 
Song Leader: Steve Whitman                       Song: Oh Gentlemen, Listen (no one knew this one L)
 
Visiting Rotarians:
None
 
Guests:
None
 
Raffle: Bill Babineau got a black jack, wrong game, not a winner.
 
Announcements:
Sign up for Tichenor trail cleanup, Sat 6 May
City Green up day, Sat 6 May
Paul T.  put in pitch for public service projects; send him your ideas so we can put into action!
Steve W.  new date for Interact event:  Fri, 12 May, 630pm-8, Mascoma School
District training this Sat.
Soup too hot; burnt two of our members (they can’t handle their soup)
 
Brags:
-Jen-daughter, Emma, accepted to U Me, Farmington, elementary ed.
-Rick Dyment.  Daughter about to have 2d child; if 2d late, new arrival will have same b-day as gramps
-Bill K.  “pilot error”  forgot to line up speaker, so he made us suffer thru by-law amendments instead.
-Linda-daughter’s production of Cinderalla at LOH while she is almost ready to deliver.  Hope things hold off.
 
Rotary Minute: Dan Affeldt rambled over a minute on stuff in the Rotary magazine:  over 1 million people vaccinated in a minute in India; club attendance not as important as results club achieves; what is your club doing to re-invent the wheel.
 
Speaker: Sue-Ellen G.  discussion of bylaws.
-club has 2 sets of bylaws:  one for club and one for charitable foundations.
-charitable foundation by laws ok for now
-officers of club automatically officers of foundation
-eliminate conflict of interest provision
-changes to election procedures (simplified)
-method of paying bills
-article for changing bylaws
 
Motion to adopt by Bill Babineau, seconded by Don McMeekin, voted affirmatively by overwhelming majority.
 
Possible new event to replace Live Auction- Brewfest, 9 Sep.  committee to meet with Claremont Kiwanis who have been holding similar event in Oct each year.  On-line auction will be kept.
 
Don McMeekin.  Discussed stewardship of various funds.  G&FO.  Time out!  PP Bruce rang the bell; discussion to continue at a date uncertain.
 
Closed with 4 way test.
 
Submitted by: Dan Nash

 

 
Lebanon Spoke_April 27th_2017 Dan Nash 2017-04-21 04:00:00Z 0

Lebanon Rotary Spoke_April 20_2017

Posted by Jean Flaherty-Wulpern

 

 

 

Meeting called to order by Past District Governor Bruce Pacht

Opening Song- “ROTARY”

Patriotic Song- “America” My Country Tis of Thee

Invocation- Steve Whitman

Visiting Rotarians-None

Guests- None

Raffle- Phil Rentz- Not a winner!

Good Works- Phil Rentz-Worked to restore The 494, train engine in WRJ.  The 494 was built in 1892 in Manchester NH.  A Ice Tea Grant was received and the WRJ National Railroad Foundation was formed to comply with the Grant requirement.  Paul Shannon was also an active member of this restoration project, helping to rebuild the steps now used to view in the inside of the engine.

The 494 still stands proudly in WRJ.

Rotary-Past District Governor Bruce Pacht spoke about the District Assembly being held April 29th in Lyndonville.  A great day to learn more about Rotary.  The Assembly is free, part of our annual dues supports this event.  The meeting starts about 8am a light Breakfast is served prior to that.  Great workshops about all aspects of Rotary are scheduled throughout the day.  Speech contest contestants will present to the group during Lunch.  The day ends about 1:30-2pm.  At least 6 members form the club are planning to attend, car pools can be arranged, contact Bruce, Dan or Don if interested.

Announcements-Ernst-Tickmore Trail Cleanup May 6th, meet at the trail head at 9am.  This project will be supported by the Boy Scouts as well.

                               Jennifer- Windsor Rotary Club is having their Penny Sale Saturday, April 22nd.

Brags- Bruce- oldest son Jesse was accepted into the Leadership of the Upper Valley program.

            Garlan- Wearing a sweater resembling the  American Flag shared that Heidi found it while cleaning closets gather  items for Listen.  24 years ago Garlan lead a group study exchange and they all wore these sweaters, he’s very happy that is still fit!

            Willy- His To Do List left by Ellen sometimes has clean closets and gather for Listen as well, but he wanted to brag for Garlan for wearing the sweater and bringing attention to it.

             Paul- Bragged for Willy for his donation and mentioning Listen.

             Ernst- Bragged that Linda celebrated a birthday and they celebrated 88years of marriage collectively, while visiting their daughter and future son in law.  Ernst than completed a major kayak trip that I didn’t get the particular for, I’m sorry.

             Jennifer- Received a matching grant from the Byrne Foundation to help increase staffing to allow for additional youth mentoring.

Speaker- None Committee Meeting

 

Committee Reports

Pie Sale- July 4th Rob Tailor will represent our club along with other club members at this years annugaral meeting being held in the next few weeks.

Youth Service-Interact gathering scheduled for April 25th has been canceled the students had conflicts in their schedules.  It has been rescheduled for May 12th, Steve will be sending an email.

The budget for Youth Services has been completed total request $13,400, Steve will be sending the break down.

The Interactors will be attending the District Conference.  One of the speakers joined Rotary as a youth, she is now a club president in CT.

Community Service-Green Up Day and Ticknore Trail Clean up May 6th.

                                     Bakers Crossing-Paul checking with Steve U for a date.

                                     Paul informally polled those present for interest in preparing Listen dinners on a regular bases, majority agreed it is a good idea, Paul will look into it.

                                      Paul following up with Cover regarding a doable project to the club.

Membership-Dan attended a forum about membership and a point that was brought out is that younger people join for international service, thery no longer have great interests in local business benefits that was a starter focus of Rotary.

International Service-Cathy’s Guatemala trip may not take place so JoAnn spoke with Walter Hughes who is working on a clean water project needing $134,000.  Additional information is needed.

Grants and Financial Operations- Deferred until next week when a presentation will be made by Don.

 

The meeting was closed with the 4 Way Test.

 

Respectfully submitted by Jean Flahery-Wulpern

 
Lebanon Rotary Spoke_April 20_2017 Jean Flaherty-Wulpern 2017-04-21 04:00:00Z 0

Lebanon Rotary_Spoke April 13_2017

 
 
 
April 13, 2017
 
Called to order by:  Garland
 
Opening Song: ROTARY
 
Patriotic Song:    “For Spacious Skys "
 
Invocation: Dan Nash   
 
Song Leader:  "Don't Fence Me In"    
 
Guests: 
 
Linda Copp
 
Raffle:  Steve W. pulled the incorrect card. 
 
Good Works:
 
 
Rotary Minute:
John Yacavone - Rotary Activities - Get something out of Participating - Fellowship and pleasure of working with like minded individuals.
 
Announcements: 
: Kevin - Rotary Club of Lebanon's Bylaws were sent out via e-mail . Please review and will be voted on 4/27 meeting. 
: Ernst O. - Lebanon Rotary will work on the Tickner Trail  - scheduled on Saturday May 6th,from 9:00 to 12:pm.
: Ron M.  Please remember David Lowesly
: President Kevin will be in St. Martin for the next couple of weeks.  
 
Brags:  
: Jennifer's son got his driver's license and both of her sons are on Honor Roll 
: Rob shared that he got 2200 gallons of maple syrup this season
 
Program - Marcus Staffney - Executive Director of Montshire Museum
 
Marcus shared with us that he has been associated with the Monshire Museum   for over 20 years. This is the Museum's 44th anniversary and was originally founded in Hanover. Their core audience is families with children under the age of 8 years old.
The theme is "Experience the Joy of Science" and the working on a research project, creating a strategic plan for 2016-2020.
The staff also want to concentrate on expending their audience, elevate our outdoor experience and tell their story in a better way.
The Monshire also wants to be an Advocate for Science and initiated a "Warm Welcome Program" to assist low income families with lower membership fee; School Partnership Initiatives e and "Weaving Strands of Knowledge" their first international project with Bhutan.     
 
Meeting was closed by President Kevin with The 4-Way Test:
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? and 4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
   
 
Submitted by: JoAnn Lemieux
 
Lebanon Rotary_Spoke April 13_2017 JoAnn Lemieux 2017-04-18 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke_April 6_2017

Posted by JoAnn Lemieux on Apr 06, 2017
 
 
 
 
April 6, 2017
 
Called to order by: President Kevin Gould
 
Opening Song: ROTARY
 
Patriotic Song:    “My Country 'Tis of Thee"
 
Invocation: John Yaccavone   
 
Song Leader:  Rich Wallace - "April Showers"    
 
Guests: 
 
Linda Copp
Cheryl Fisk - joined Ernst's medical practice
Ethan (?) - RYLA candidate from Lebanon High School. Gave a short presentation on what he learned at the Leadership Weekend  -"Lead by Example" and "Late Nights " are not his thing :)
 
Raffle:  Mike Weins pulled the incorrect card. 
 
Good Works:
Bruce P. mentioned that Dorris Mollica was born in 1892 and passed away in Nov.1986, at the age of 94 years old. She played every song at the Lebanon Rotary meetings in the '80s. She left in her will $64,00 to the Lebanon Rotary, to start a fund to be used to better music endeavours.    
 
Rotary Minute:
JoAnn read a quote in an address to the 1960 Rotary Convention - ".... the seed to be sown - fellowship, friendship, understanding. The soil - the minds of individual Rotarians"
 
Announcements: 
: District Assembly is scheduled for April 29,2017 at Lydonville College.
: Phil mentioned the Rail Trail Clean Up - scheduled from 9:00 to 12:pm. Meeting at the CCBA (this author missed the date). Will forward
: Kevin mentioned to review by-laws and complete district survey
 
Brags:  
: Bruce P. only lost $4.00 at Foxwoods
: Paul B. donated money to the Mollica Fund to celebrate his birthday (sorry Paul, you look too young to donate that much money)  
: Paul T. - Rotary helped fee 100 people at the Listen center
: John Y. donated $80 to the Dorris Mollica Fund in celebration of his birthday
: Forrest Cole donated $68 to the Dorris Mollica Fund celebration of his birthday 
: Paul B. has been in Rotary for 43 years
 
Program - Stepanie Jackson - Lebanon Historical Society
 
Stephanie provided an interesting presentation "A Walk in the Park, through the years" , a brief tour of the history of Lebanon's Colburn Park, and provided a slide show of the surrounding streets - North, West, South and East Park Streets - illustrated with historic photographs.
 It all began with the meetinghouse problem. In 1792, Lebanon voters had been deliberating for year about where to build a new meetinghouse. The existing one, located in West Lebanon, was in serious disrepair. Robert Colburn offered the town a part of this field, with the condition that it be used for a meetinghouse.
The Lebanon Historical Society invites you to become a member.
Ron Michaud presented to Stephanie, and the Lebanon Historical,  a photo of recent First Baptist Church of Lebanon fire.  
 
 
 
Meeting was closed by Kevin with The 4-Way Test:
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? and 4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
   
 
Submitted by: JoAnn Lemieux
 
 
Spoke_April 6_2017 JoAnn Lemieux 2017-04-06 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 2_23_2017

Posted by JoAnn Lemieux on Feb 26, 2017
 
Held at Salt Hill PUB
 
Called to order by: President – Elect Suellen
 
Opening Song: ROTARY
 
Patriotic Song:    “Oh Spacious Skies"
 
Invocation:     
 
Song Leader:  Garlan     
 
Visiting Rotarians: None
 
 
Guests: None
 
 
 Raffle:  No raffle
 
 
Announcements: 
: District Assembly is scheduled for April 29,2017 at Lydonville College:
: Rob Taylor, Director the Lebanon Chamber of Commerce announced the Life Home Show for 3/17 through 3/19
: Evan and Steve W. met with the Riverside Club on working together for the Interact Club, scheduled for 3/29
: Listen Food Dinner is confirmed for  3/29
: The Club received a "Thank You" note from Bev Wakely
 
Braggs:  
 
: Bruce P. bragged they he attending the PETS meeting
: Rob attended the Lebanon Riverside meeting and represented our Club. First year medical students on the opiate program
: Ernst bragged that Linda is coming back from her trip and bring a carpet back
: Bruce P. delivered 7 Valentine Songs
: Valarie is excited she was able to hire someone
   
Rotary Minute:
 
Bruce P. that the first "Rotary" meeting was attended by just two members, of which Paul Harris was one. The second meeting had 4 other members, with the intent of naming the Club.  Paul Harris    
came out with Rotarian @BB.
 
Speaker: Dr. Jennifer Mercer is the Program Manager of the Artic Research, Support and Logistics of the Science Foundation. She gave a fascinating program on "What's Happening in the Artic".
 
Meeting was closed by Sueellen with The 4-Way Test:
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? and 4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
   
 
Submitted by: JoAnn Lemieux
 
 
Spoke 2_23_2017 JoAnn Lemieux 2017-02-26 05:00:00Z 0

Club Assignments 2/23-3/16/2017

Thursday, March 02, 2017

Bruce Pacht                Spoke

Don MacMeekin              Song Leader

Garlan Hoskin              Good Works

Jamie Whyte                Invocation

Paul Boucher               Rotary Minute

Rich Wallace               Greeter

 

Thursday, March 09, 2017

Bartolo Governanti        Rotary Minute

Jennifer Grant            Spoke

JoAnn Lemieux             Good Works

John P. Yacavone          Invocation

Jon Blodgett              Greeter

Valerie Armstrong         Song Leader

 

Thursday, March 16, 2017

Don MacMeekin              Rotary Minute

Jane G. Mason              Good Works

Jon Blodgett               Song Leader

Paul Boucher               Spoke

Suellen Griffin            Invocation

Valerie Armstrong          Greeter

 
Club Assignments 2/23-3/16/2017 2017-02-22 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke - February 14, 2017 

Posted by JoAnn Lemieux on Feb 22, 2017
 
The Rotary Lebanon Club of Lebanon visited with the Lebanon Senior Center on Valentine's Day, 2/14/2017.
The Senior Center was brightly decorated with Valentine's Day themes and had good attendance.
Our own Bruce Pacht, along with his fellow North Country Chordsmen, entertained us ALL!  
 
 
Submitted by: JoAnn Lemieux
Spoke - February 14, 2017 JoAnn Lemieux 2017-02-22 05:00:00Z 0

Goverance Douments 

Posted by JoAnn Lemieux on Feb 21, 2017

Governance documents

Clubs and districts are guided by the Manual of Procedure, RI Constitution, and RI Bylaws. These documents provide the structure for RI’s policies and procedures. Every club and district can propose amendments to constitutional documents through the Council of Legislation.

Manual of Procedure

The Manual of Procedure offers a concise version of Rotary’s policies and procedures. The manual is geared to Rotary club and district leaders and features information that’s most relevant to their roles. It is published every three years to reflect adopted legislation and decisions of the RI conventions, the Council on Legislation, the Rotary International Board of Directors, and the Trustees of The Rotary Foundation.

The manual covers these key areas:

·         Structure: Includes policies and procedures for clubs, districts, zones, Rotary International, and The Rotary Foundation.

·         Carrying out Rotary's mission: Includes the structure, policies, and procedures of the programs of RI and the Foundation

·         International Meetings: Includes the RI Convention, Council on Legislation, and International Assembly

·         Rotary's constitutional and legal documents

Rotary’s constitutional documents

The Rotary International constitutional documents provide club and districts the foundation for RI’s policies and procedures.

·         Constitution of Rotary International (PDF) (Word)

·         Bylaws of Rotary International (PDF) (Word)

·         Standard Rotary Club Constitution (PDF) (Word)

All clubs admitted to Rotary membership must adopt this constitution.

·         Recommended Rotary Club Bylaws (PDF) (Word)

Clubs can tailor these bylaws, as long as their changes align with Rotary’s constitutional documents and the Rotary Code of Policies. If you have doubts about your proposed changes, please submit them to the general secretary for the RI Board to consider.

Rotary Code of Policies

The Rotary Code of Policies compiles all of the organization’s general and permanent policies. A revised document is available after each meeting of the RI Board and the Council on Legislation. The Rotary Foundation Code of Policies is maintained in a separate document.

Read the latest RI Board decisions and Rotary Foundation Trustees decisions

 
Goverance Douments JoAnn Lemieux 2017-02-21 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 1/5/2017

Posted by JoAnn Lemieux
 
Called to order by: President Elect -  Sue Ellen Griffin
 
Opening Song: ROTARY
 
Patriotic Song:  Oh Beautiful for Spacious Skies 
 
Invocation: Rich Wallace - John Lennon Quote
 
Song Leader:                          Song: A  Policeman's lot is not a happy one
 
Visiting Rotarians: None
 
Guests:
Linda Copp and Newt Piper (Lorraine Morrison's grandson)
 
 
 
Raffle:  Rich W. answered correctly the raffle question but picked a card other than the Queen of Hearts.
 
Announcements: Sue Ellen read a Thank You note from West Central Behavior Health for support in Paddle Power this summer. 
Paul T. mentioned Community Service opportunities and tentatively scheduled a couple of dates for a dinner at the Haven. Paul is looking for club support.
Rob Taylor was unanimously voted in as a new club member.
 
 
Rotary Minute: Jennifer noted that there are maps of district Clubs with meeting times.  
 
Good Works: Jean noted that President Kevin and Peter, along with Jean and Bob, hosted a St Patrick's Day Dinner. First year was shore, but the second year they gained ground. She suggested bring back the dinner for small organized event for fundraising.     
 
Brags:
Ernst O. announced this daughter, Margaret, is engaged!
Rick said over 10,000 planes used the Lebanon Airport.
Kathy noted that she passed her surgery recertification until 2027.
Jennifer had her picture in the Valley news with new husband.
 
Speaker: Our Speaker was  Paul Coats, Executive Director of Lebanon Recreation and Parks and he noted that his department oversees a number of projects of the Lebanon Area, Projects include:
5k of groomed ski trails behind Alice Peck Day; investing in replacing trees; Full Moon Fiesta at Storrs Hill to benefit the ski area; Mascoma River Greenway; efforts to rebuild the Rusty Bearing Skate park; 1k groomed trails at Storrs Hills (and are looking for volunteers) and several other projects.  
 
Director Paul Coats was presented a check from the Lebanon Rotary Club for $1,000 to help with the department's projects.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
r
 
 
 
 
Meeting was closed by Sue Ellen with The 4-Way Test:
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? and 4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
   
 
Submitted by: JoAnn Lemieux
 
Spoke 1/5/2017 JoAnn Lemieux 2017-01-06 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 12/8/2016

Called to order by: President Kevin
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: My Country, 'Tis of Thee.
 
Invocation: Jon Blodgett.
 
Song Leader: JoAnne Lemieux led us as we stumbled through “The Fox Went to Town”.
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Dick Wierwille, from Worcester, Ohio
Richard Smith, from Portsmouth, NH
 
Guests:
Rob Taylor, Exec. Director of the Lebanon Chamber of Commerce - soon to be a member.
 
Raffle: Garlan had the correct answer and pulled his own ticket, but alas, it was not the winning card.
 
Announcements:
  • Rotary Club Holiday Social is set for December 15th - $15 to attend.
  • Don MacMeekin is collecting toy for the Enfield Firefighters.
  • Jon Blodgett is asking for volunteers and donations for the Christmas Dinner at Sacred Heart.
  • Sue Ellen spoke about a $250 donation to Head Rest.
  • Don MacMeekin mentioned the request from Mascoma Bank for donations to a new fund in Steve Christy’s name.
  • Don MacMeekin spoke about the request to help rebuild the skate park at Riverside Park, and that Riverside Rotary has donated $1,000.  Ron M. made a motion to donate $1,000 as a match to the Riverside Club donation, Lorraine M. seconded, the club voted, and the motion was passed.
  • Garlan Hoskin and Philip Rentz held the foundation drawing. Twenty members won 100 points each.
 
 Brags:  not enough time this week per Pres. Kevin.
 
Good Works:  Steve Christy spoke about his involvement in New Hampshire Humanities non-profit organization over the last several years and how impressed he was by the “Humanities To Go” program.
 
 
Rotary Minute: Jamie W. cited an article in the Rotary magazine that the Rotary Foundation had won an award for how well the charity was managed.
 
 
Speaker: JoAnne Lemieux gave a presentation on her recent trip to Myanmar in South East Asia. Edward Jones Financial Advisors sponsors the annual trip to give aid to impoverished children and orphans. JoAnne met with the Rotary Club in Myanmar (there is only one Rotary Club in Myanmar) and she is working on a Rotary grant.  JoAnne mentioned that Myanmar is not a typical tourist destination and that she had 4 stops on the way and it took 2-days to reach her destination.  JoAnne wore a traditional dress of Myanmar during her presentation.  As JoAnne projected pictures she mentioned that the trip made her more aware of the life style and the impoverishment in 3rd world countries. Many children have HIV and there is not treatment available for them. A little money goes a long was in providing health services and daily necessities.
 
President Kevin concluded the meeting with the ‘4-way test’.
 
 
Submitted by: Philip Rentz
 
Spoke 12/8/2016 Philip Rentz 2016-12-10 05:00:00Z 0

Assignments 12/29/2016 - 1/5/2017

 
Thursday, December 29, 2016
Bartolo Governanti          Invocation
Bruce Pacht                 Greeter
Jennifer Grant              Rotary Minute
Linda Copp                  Song Leader
Paul Boucher                Good Works
Paul Tierney                Spoke
 
Thursday, January 5, 2017
Bruce Pacht                 Song Leader
Evan Leary                  Spoke
Jean Flaherty-Wulpern       Good Works
Rich Wallace                Invocation
Suellen Griffin             Rotary Minute
Westin Greene               Greeter
 
 
 
Assignments 12/29/2016 - 1/5/2017 2016-12-07 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 12/1/2016

Posted by Jamie Whyte on Dec 03, 2016
Called to order by: Pres Kevin
 
Opening Song: ROTARY
 
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful
 
Invocation: Jen Grant
 
Song Leader: Garlan Song: Home on the Range
 
Visiting Rotarians:
None
 
Guests:
Linda Oidtmann
Rob Taylor
 
Raffle: Willy…no luck
 
Announcements:
 
Reminder for Rotary Foundation checks
BAH
Voted on the following:
$1000.00 approved for Whaleback after school skiing program
 
Slate of officers for 2017-2018 – passed
Suellen Griffin – Pres
Catherine Schneider – Pres Elect
Marion Steiner – VP
Bill Babineau – Tres
Will Koppenheffer – Secretary
 
Rotary Youth Exchange student for 2017, amount of $4000.00, passed.
 
Brags:
Jen Grant – Birthday
Bruce Pact – North Country Chordsmen performing in December
Jane – New baby in the family
Valerie – Son made Honor Roll
 
Rotary Minute: Lorraine Morrison
 
Speaker: Ernst Oidtmann & Linda Oidtmann
 
A month long trip to the Arctic – Beautiful photos of trip
 
Submitted by: Jamie Whyte
Spoke 12/1/2016 Jamie Whyte 2016-12-03 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 11/17/2016

Posted by Valerie Armstrong
 
Spoke 11/17/2016
Tables were beautifully set for our Thanksgiving celebration, and I had to inquire about the funky looking bowls of food, which I learned was crème brulee!
ROTARY, Oh Beautiful for Spacious skies
Invocation: Garlan gave a heartwarming invocation.
Song: Turkey in the Straw: Jennifer Grant
Secretary’s Report: Rich Wallace brought a Guest:  Rob Taylor, Taylor Farms!
Steve Whitman drew a heart, but not the queen!
John Blodgett shared his good works: As president in his 1st year of Rotary, he raised concern about dental health (for all ages). That year, the club raised 10k for Red Logan dental clinic for the benefit of those who couldn’t afford care, then helped Nancy Dumont in schools with dental health.
Steve Christy: Rotary Minute; Poked fun at Turkey in the Straw and the many other silly songs we sing, siting effects of a potential opiod crisis… The room erupted in laughter! Steve brought up that every year, Rotary of Charlotte SC hosts business leaders luncheons, and how this gives busy professionals the opportunity to see club first hand.  The club realizes a 15% increase in membership following these events.
The discussion for an honorary donation by the club in the name of Norman Wakefield was again presented: $1,000 Cardigan Mt. School, $500 to City Center Ballet… Jennifer discussed setting a standard for commemoration of deceased Rotarians. Evan suggested a formula associated with years of service. Ron suggested memorial to add names to. Donations were approved by majority vote.
Suellen spoke about Service Projects: Passed out a summary of community service ideas and financial suggestions. Suggestions included: support for domestic violence, elder care, mental health, scholarships/internship scholarship – Dismas House, Food Bank. We are looking at sharing service efforts with the Riverside Group. We are also doing Listen Holiday baskets for families. Paul will request wish lists for some families for the holiday baskets. 12/9 is cutoff and the committee will follow up. Listen Community Dinner will be held December 13th. More info to follow. The Riverside Park fall cleanup will be Thurs Dec 1, at 3pm. Bring pruning tools and gloves.  
Ron bragged that he called the atty general about…??  He also went on about how awesome the golf auction gifts for Baker Hill,  Green Mt. Nat’l , Lake Sunapee Country Club, Carter, Hanover. Jon pointed out that it is Foundation Month and gave a check! Phil said first donation in 1917 was for $26.50… Gifting $126.50 was recommended ($100 to commemorate 100 years, plus the original contribution of $26.50). Paul’s “brag” was to apologize for appearing “intellectually harsh and announced he is pursuing a character improvement process trying to speak out more rather than being so shy”.  
Jennifer: Windsor Rotary hosting Harlem Ambassadors at Windsor High 11/17, and her daughter will be involved in the production of Pirates of Penzance –which will be held Friday and Saturday (11/18 & 11/19) at Chandler Music Hall in Randolph, VT
Bartolo: Clara’s Dream date reminder: Supports Lebanon Ballet, December 2nd. If you have interest in pre-show dinner and cocktails at Three Tomatoes, call Bartolo at 603-707-0437.
Steve: Mentioned there was Mascoma Bank robbery in Springfield VT. The perp grabbed the branch manager and another employee and held them at gunpoint. There is concern it may be connected with opioid issue and worries for future. Steve also commented on the good taste of the Chamber of Commerce , voting him Citizen of the Year! LOL! Good job, Steve!
 
 
 
Spoke 11/17/2016 Valerie Armstrong 2016-11-29 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 11/10/2016

Posted by V. Bruce Pacht
by Bruce Pacht for poor JoAnn who disabled temporarily her writing hand while walking in the woods.
 
MCTO by President Kevin at around 12:15 PM in the Dwinell Room of Harvest Hill.
 
Ernst played and we sang R-O-T-A-R-Y and then America.
 
Lorraine Morrison read thoughtful remarks about our being one community.  She also led us in singing a version of Anchors Aweigh.
 
There were no visiting Rotarians.  Will Koppenheffer introduced his daughter Eraminta (sp?) whom many of us knew in her youth as “Minty”.
 
After Secretary Will’s long song and dance about Billings, Marsh and Rockefeller, the raffle for $370 was lost; $380 next week!
 
Marion updated us on the acquisition of some excellent auction items, then urged us to sign up and bring other folks to the Gala on November 19 (following the District Team Training Seminar up in Lyndon State College, VT) at the Fireside in West Lebanon.  We’ve received a $500 gift from Cardigan Mountain School in honor and memory of Norm Wakely, while Ernst announced that he’d collected $800 total from several local health professionals.
 
My Rotary Experience:
Paul Tierney spoke of his working as a Board member and volunteer with Listen Community Services which, among other things, served more than 28,000 individual meals last year, and gives out about $150,000 in heating fuel assistance to local families each year.
 
Rotary Minute:
Rich Wallace shared some statistics about the Rotary Club of Lebanon.  Fewer than 10% of our members are younger than 49 years old.  Also, only 3% of our membership has been with us less than one year; nationally, the rate is 11%.
 
Brags/Happy dollars:
  • Rick Dyment is the 11th oldest City of Lebanon employee.
  • Lorraine Morrison’s oldest daughter’s birthday is today.
  • Forrest was delighted to have been able to spend a lovely afternoon in November just fishing.
 
Announcement:
The Mollica Committee wishes to broaden its outreach and asks the club for suggestions.
 
Speaker:
Our excellent speaker was Rick Kendal, a National Park Ranger who has, since 2010, been superintendent of both St. Gaudens in Plainfield, NH, and the Marsh/Billings/Rockefeller home in Woodstock, VT.  Rick showed us gorgeous slides of many of our most beautiful parks while he spoke engagingly of the worth to all of us of having national parks set aside for everyone’s use.  His talk was full of interesting facts and factoids.  In addition to national parks, there are national heritage areas, national historic landmarks, and national wildlife refuges.  And did you know that the first survey of what became Yellowstone National Park was led by a Vermonter?   Neither did I.
Spoke 11/10/2016 V. Bruce Pacht 2016-11-16 05:00:00Z 0
On our auction site! 2016-11-11 05:00:00Z 0
Joann's Spoke: Not bad for a broken right hand!!! 2016-11-09 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 11/3/2016

Posted by JoAnn Lemieux
Meeting called to order by President Kevin @ 12:15
 
Song- My Country ‘tis of Thee
Invocation – given by Evan
Auction update:
Big items go to Bartolo, smaller items report to Jane
Cash donations are $1,115 so far. Burne Foundation contributed $6,000 and was solicited by Ron Michaud.
No secretary report. President Kevin noted that the club pays for 26 lunches, so let’s keep up attendance.
Marion got the right raffle ticket, but did not win.
Song Leader, Westin, and lead “Home on the Range”
 
Steve Whitman was happy to report that our club is now sponsoring a Rotaract Club at Lebanon High School!
 
Paul Tierney proposed a “Rotary Experience”, that will focus on how each member share their one personal Rotary Experience, called “Good Works”. The intention is to inspire us to be better Rotarians.  
 
For the Rotary Minute, Jean shared some milestone dates:
1928 = Rotary Foundation started with a $500 donation
1947- Paul Harris died
 1965-1966- Group Study Exchange started
1978- Health, Hunger and Humanitarian efforts are the Foundation focus
1985- Polio Plus project started with the intention to eradicate polio
1987-1988- Peace Fellowship started and more than a billion dollars have been raised
 
There was a discussion that a $1000 scholarship be given in memory of Norm Wakely. There was a motion to table the recipient.
 
Program – Phil showed a slide show presentation on the Hartford  VT Polar Express which is sponsored by the White River Rotary Club.  He was a conductor on last year’s train. The Polar Express will be pulling out of the station Dec. 10 and 11th.    The Polar Express is an exciting ride along the CT River. The destination is the North Pole!! Chefs and conductors are needed to staff 13 trips to the North Pole. To volunteer, email polarexpress.volunteer@yahoo.com or check out the website www.hartfordvtpolarexpress.com
 
Bill Babineau also gave a classification talk, sharing that he and his family have been in the Upper Valley a very long time and embarked in many business ventures. Some of which include a jewelry store, video store and a landmark downtown Hildreth Hardware store. More recently, Bill and his wife Debbie, own and manage many apartment buildings and Bill is the Owner of Northeast Mailing Systems. Bill has been very active in Foundation efforts, most recently participating in clean water projects in Ghana.
 
Meeting was closed by President Kevin with the “Four Way Test”.
 
Spoke 11/3/2016 JoAnn Lemieux 2016-11-09 05:00:00Z 0
Editor's Note: Late again, my fault! But Assignments are current! Ron Carr 2016-11-08 05:00:00Z 0

Assignments 11/10/2016 - 11/17/2016

Thursday, November 10, 2016
Dan Affeldt                 Good Works
Evan Leary                  Greeter
Garlan Hoskin               Invocation
Lorraine Morrison           Song Leader
Rich Wallace                Rotary Minute
Suellen Griffin             Spoke
 
Thursday, November 17, 2016
Garlan Hoskin               Greeter
Jennifer Grant              Song Leader
Jon Blodgett                Good Works
Lorraine Morrison           Invocation
Steve Christy               Rotary Minute
Valerie Armstrong           Spoke

 
Assignments 11/10/2016 - 11/17/2016 2016-11-08 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 10/27/2016

Posted by Philip Rentz
 
Called to order by: President Kevin
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: My Country, 'Tis of Thee.
 
Invocation: Jon Blodgett.
 
Song Leader: John Yacavone stepped in for Steve Christy and lead “Moonlight Bay”, which we all found to be ‘short-and-sweet’.
 
Visiting Rotarians:
None
 
Guests:
None
 
Raffle: Jane pulled the 2 of clubs! But first Jo Anne raffled-off two very nice hats, one was a Rotary Hat!
 
Announcements:
  • Marion reminded us that the auction is right around the corner. The auction web-site is up and running: ‘Auction 37’. Bring in your donations and contact Marion if you have any questions.
  • Dan mentioned that we can contact him with questions about the on-line auction.
  • Kevin announced the passing of former member Norman Wakely and gave a brief eulogy. He also mentioned that donations can be made to the Cardigan Mountain School.
 
Brags:
 
  • Bruce had a brag, he attended a competition in Dartmouth NS, which is an 18 hour drive. His quartet came in 18th, and the North Country Chordsmen came in 8th.
  • Jane fined herself $1 for being late as the greeter. Also, her brother now has a 2nd Grand Child!
  • Will spent two week in India with his family; biggest take-away was the crazy traffic. They went to the Taj-Mahal and the bus driver performed a hair-raising back-up move into highway traffic so that the tourists could see some camels. Will rode one of those camels bare-back!
 
Rotary Minute: Evan had a good piece of eradicating Polio at our meting 3-weeks ago, but today had nothing. 
 
Rotary Experience Minute: This is something totally new: Don MacMeekin passed out two index cards, on green card we should right the name of an organization that need funding, and on the yellow card we should right down service projects. How can we get more people to know what we do asked Don.  He went on to talk about his experience entertaining the Rotary visitors from Australia. His day started at 8:30 AM with a visit to the Billings 7-bedroom Homestead in Woodstock, VT. Wendy and Charles from Queensland were his Friendship Exchange guests, he as an automobile sales trainer, and she is a financial planner. Light conversation began about family; they have 2-daughters in Lexington, KY. The couple toured and visited relatives for 10-days before joining the Rotary Exchange group. Don said that his Australian Guests thought our farms were so different from theirs and were amazed at the foliage colors. There were also amazed that the center of our country is so green, as theirs is a dessert. Despite spilling some clam Chowder at lunch, Don said that he had a great time getting to know them and learning how they live.
 
 
Speaker: Greg Norman, Director of Community Health, Dartmouth-Hitchcock
 
Greg spoke about the recently completed Regional Health needs assessment conducted by Dartmouth-Hitchcock Community Health. This was a joint assessment activity with New London Hospital, Valley Regional Hospital, Mount Ascutney Hospital, Alice Peck Day, and Dartmouth-Hitchcock. About 2000 people were surveyed.  The report indicated that the most critical increase in the last 3-years was substance abuse and mental health. Second was access to care, access to services, and access to medications. Transportation to these services was a major issue.  Third was access to healthy food, access to healthy activities, and access to physical activity, which included access to parks and recreation areas. And fourth was housing and transportation. Housing costs are high and many people live 20-30 miles away from services. Noman raised the question: how often do these issues occur as barriers for people in your community to access needed behavioral health services?
 
More information can be found at the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Community Health website:
 
 
 
Spoke 10/27/2016 Philip Rentz 2016-11-08 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 10/20/2016

Posted by V. Bruce Pacht
Ed. Note:Bruce was timely, as always, in his submission of the Spoke. Editor Ron was at fault for the lateness of this issue.
 
President Kevin Gould opened the meeting on time.
 
Ernst Oidtmann played piano while we sang R-O-T-A-R-Y and America, the Beautiful.
 
After the Pledge of Allegiance, Sergeant-at-arms Rick Dyment gave us this thought before eating:  Remember during this run-up to the presidential election when our differences seem heightened, that the circle of our nation includes all of us.
 
Our generous buffet started with tomato basil soup, then went on to pork loin, kielbasa, and haddock accompanied by macaroni and cheese, mixed hot vegetables, rice, salad, and the usual cold cuts and desserts – what a great deal!
 
Announcements:
  • October 24 is World Polio Day
  • Our 37th Annual Auction items now total about $7,000 in retail worth
  • Jean Wulpern told us that she was among those at DHMC laid off from their positions.  She told us not to worry about her but to pray for her niece (not sure I have the relationship exactly) just diagnosed with a very short time to live.
 
Brags:
  • Jennifer and Rob are heading to the state of Georgia for a long weekend/honeymoon
  • Jamie Whyte urged us all to go see a benefit production but I missed the details – sorry!
 
Program:  Club Assembly
 
President Kevin said that our efforts to increase membership need momentum.  He suggested the entire club brainstorm ideas.
 
Paul Boucher:  The board has discussed merging with Lebanon-Riverside.
 
John Yacavone:  We need to have exciting and meaningful programs at our meetings and publicize them.
 
Steve Whitman:  We need to have more members involved in committees and actually doing what they talk about doing.  The youth service committee is working with Lebanon-Riverside’s youth committee on the Interact Club at Mascoma Valley Regional High School.  We’d like to have a different Rotarian come to Interact meetings to see what’s going on.
 
Suellen Griffin:  Instituting corporate membership may help.  A corporation chooses up to 4 individuals who share membership in the club.  It shares the attendance requirement burden.
 
Rich Wallace:  What happened to our plan for contacting members who don’t come to a meeting?
 
Jean Wulpern:  What about meeting at different times other than the middle of the day such as an early morning meeting at 5 or 5:30 AM somewhere?
 
The SPOKE isn’t getting members the right information about coming events, future programs, etc.  We need to get it on Friday or Monday.  Perhaps we should have one person do the SPOKE for 6 months.
 
Phil Rentz:  The SPOKE looks backward – it’s minutes of our meeting.  A regular e-mail blast, such as every 2 weeks with events 6 weeks into the future, would be read by everyone.
 
John Yacavone:  I’ve been saying this for years – our public relations are terrible.  The Hartford Club’s changeover had 4 columns in the Valley News.  We got no coverage at all for what we’ve done at Baker’s Crossing.
 
We have a new City Manager.  Perhaps we can have the City as a corporate member with the manager, police chief, fire chief, parks and recreation or some other department head being the designated members.
 
Suellen:  Does everyone in the room have a Rotary club job to do besides just coming to lunch? 
 
Ron Michaud:  High quality programs are possible.  For example, we used to invite someone from the city, the county, and the state to speak with us about current issues.  Other times, we would have a theme for a month’s worth of programs.
 
Rich Wallace:  Our next sponsored business after hours is in January; Rich thinks it’s the 18th.
 
Ron Michaud:   We did an annual ethics award but it has lost steam.
Linda Copp:  I’ve asked the Club for nominees and haven’t received any.
 
Rich Wallace:  We should post more frequently on Facebook.  Not just group activities, but “Here’s Rotarian XXX participating in a Northern Stage production.”
 
Jennifer Grant:  When using e-mail, be sure to indicate in the subject line if the message is “informational” or “response required”
 
GOOD NEWS:
President Kevin announced that Catherine Schneider has agreed to replace Westin as vice-president, understanding that she would be president-elect next year, then serve as president after that.
 
We ended the meeting with a recitation of the 4-Way Test of the Things We Think, Say or Do.
 
Spoke 10/20/2016 V. Bruce Pacht 2016-10-30 04:00:00Z 0

Assignments 11/3/2016 - 11/10/2016

Thursday, November 3, 2016
Evan Leary                  Invocation
Jane G. Mason               Spoke
Jean Flaherty-Wulpern       Rotary Minute
Lorraine Morrison           Greeter
Westin Greene               Song Leader
 
Thursday, November 10, 2016
Garlan Hoskin               Invocation
Lorraine Morrison           Song Leader
Rich Wallace                Rotary Minute
Suellen Griffin             Spoke
Westin Greene               Greeter

 
Assignments 11/3/2016 - 11/10/2016 Ron Carr 2016-10-30 04:00:00Z 0

Assignments 10-13-2016 - 10-20-2016

 
Thursday, October 20, 2016
Phil Rentz                  Song Leader
Jane G. Mason               Rotary Minute
Jennifer Grant              Greeter
Bruce Pacht                 Spoke
Rick Dyment                 Invocation
 
Thursday, October 27, 2016
Jane G. Mason               Invocation
Jean Flaherty-Wulpern       Spoke
Philip Rentz                Song Leader
Steve Christy               Greeter
Steve Whitman               Rotary Minute
Assignments 10-13-2016 - 10-20-2016 Ron Carr 2016-10-11 04:00:00Z 0
Auction 37 Ron 2016-10-11 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 10/6/2016

Posted by Philip Rentz
 
Called to order by: President Kevin
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: My Country, 'Tis of Thee.
 
Invocation: Jon Blodgett.
 
Song Leader: Steve Christy, interrupted by our pianist, Ernst. We struggled with “Advance Australia Fair” and then sang “Don’t Fence Me In” with ease.
 
Visiting Rotarians:
None
 
Guests:
None
 
Raffle: John Y. had the answer to Willy’s volcanic question and pulled Dan’s ticket. Dan drew a heart, but it was the 2!
 
Announcements:
  • Rotary Leadership Institute, DHMC, October 15, 2016: pay the fee and submit to the club for reimbursement.
  • District 7850's Million Dollar Challenge Dinner, October 22nd at the Woodstock Inn, Station, and Brewery, North Woodstock, NH
  • November 19th is the Auction. Follow-up on your list of contacts and contact Jane Mason with details on donated auction items.  Don’t wait, do it now!
  • Interact Meeting was held October 5th at Mascoma High School. The initial sign-up was 17, but only 5 students showed up, the rest had sports events or other activities.  Steve Whitman, President Kevin, and Sue Donnelly from Riverside conducted the meeting.  Next meeting on Oct. 20th.
 
 
 
Brags:
 
  • Rick bragged about making a Rotary deposit and the teller wouldn’t make change for him because he didn’t have an account with that Bank.
  • JoAnn wanted us to think about all the people in Haiti who were affected by Hurricane Matthew.
  • Don can’t attend the dinner for the Australian and offered for someone to go in his place.
  • Steve W. had tickets to Macbeth to give away, which Ron M. gladly accepted.
 
 
Rotary Minute: Evan Leary was surprised with his assignment to give the Rotary Minute but came up with a good piece updating us on the Rotary initiative to eradicate polio. Nigeria has been reclassified as several cases were discovered in September 2016. Surveillance is even reaching areas in conflict.
 
 
Speaker: Michael Weins, Patent Attorney
“Trademarks in a nutshell” is how Rotary Club member Michael Weins described his presentation. Born in Ypsilanti, Michigan Mike studied at the University of Michigan, Harvard, and Loyola University. He started his practice in Lebanon in 1981 and frequently rode the Amtrak Montrealer to Washington, where the patent office was right above Union Station.  He told people that he “didn’t even need a coat”.
 
Mike gave simple examples of how patent law works, such as a picture he took of his office building and a picture his associate Jeffrey took.  No copy-write infringement because although both are photos of the same subject, the Authors were different. It would be a different matter if one had used the photo taken by the other without approval. Then came the example of Acorn Hill Farm, this name was used by multiple businesses because they were in different markets, one was organic produce, and one was a horse farm. And last, he gave the example of Ford, someone would not be allowed to start a car company using the name ‘Ford’ with Ford handwritten in an oval trademark, however if President Ford had started an underwear business he could have used the name ‘Ford’ because it wouldn’t be confused.
 
Mike closed his presentation with “Everything you need to know about Sex”. You can’t patent a color if it naturally occurs in nature, such as a rose. You would have to cross pollinate to create a unique color.
 
During the question and answer period, Mike’s assistant, Jeffrey Semprebon was asked if the Upper Valley was active with patent issues.  Jeff responded that Lebanon is the plasma torch capital of the world, and also the home to other high tech companies that required patents. He also mentioned that it takes 9-10 months at minimum for a patent to be approved, and 2-3 years was common.  When asked how long a patent was good for he said that it use to be 17 years from issue, and is now 20 years from date filed with frequent 1000 day extensions because of the length of time taken in the approval process.
 
Spoke 10/6/2016 Philip Rentz 2016-10-07 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 9/29/2016

Posted by Garlan Hoskin
 
Called to order by: Pres Kevin
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: O Say can you see
 
Invocation: Forrest
 
Song Leader: Ernest              Song: Advance Australia Fair and Home on the Range
 
Visiting Rotarians:
None
 
Guests:
None
 
Raffle: Suellen got the draw but not the Queen
 
Announcements:
November is Foundation Month.  Suggested contribution is $126.50 in honor of the initial contribution of $26.50 to start the Foundation.
Marion asked for what people have already received for the auction.  Please let Jane know when you receive a gift so she can enter it. 
RLYl to be held on Oct 15 at DH any one can attend and the first two are paid for by the club.  It is a great opportunity to learn more about Rotary and it’s impact on the world and our community
Million Dollar Dinner to beheld at the Woodstock in in Lincoln NH on Oct 19th and is Black tie
 
Brags:
 Willie went to Colorado for a wedding and enjoyed driving w Ellen over the continental divide.  Their son showed up and made the trip again into snow at the top. 
Kathy bragged about her wonderful husband who not only survived a tipped over chiack but helped clean up the Bakers Crossing park along with Kathy, Ernst, and Linda. 
Steve W announced that the Mascoma school will begin the interact club next week. 
Rick bragged about a successful Week of Wings at the airport
Forrest bragged about surviving a boat tipping over and proving that his self inflating life preserver work very well and that the bottom of the pond was 5 feet deep in mud.  Hey, Forrest don’t go alone next time. 
 
Rotary Minute: didn’t have time for one.
 
Speaker: John Higgins, head Ledyard Charter School in Lebanon
This was John’s 3rd time to speaking to us and his speech was very informative of the special role this school plays in the educating and giving opportunity to otherwise rejected and dropped out young people in Lebanon. 
 
“We offer students that have faced challenges in a traditional high school setting a personalized, alternative educational program, engaging 21st century concepts, skills and dispositions to real-world problems and the authentic performance of mastered competencies.”
 
“The foundation of our school lies within the belief of building strong interpersonal skills in the areas of self-advocacy, organization, goal setting and attainment, self-determination and self-confidence, all while working with and supporting the community.”
 
“The LCS faculty provides an engaging, hands-on curriculum that helps students develop lifelong learning skills, enabling the student to adapt to changing societal and career needs.”
 
The state provides $6500 per student which costs LCS $10,500  so it is necessary to raise 40% of their budget every year.  Average cost per student in NH is $17,500.  The school saves Lebanon over $200,000/ year if these students were in Lebanon High School
 
A recent graduate Erica Swett was present and spoke about the family atmosphere, who said if it had not been for Ledyard, she would have probably dropped out of high school.  Now 18 with a young son, living alone, working full time at a child care facility and attending Riverside College, she is unbelievable to me!   Congratulations to the school and this young mother.
Spoke 9/29/2016 Garlan Hoskin 2016-10-03 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 9/22/2016

Posted by Dan Affeldt
Suellen lead the meeting in Kevin’s absence, but she was then replaced by Don MacMeekin who stepped in to carry on after Suellen had to depart.  We weren’t sure what we would do if Don had to leave . . .
 
Ernst led us in R O T A R Y
 
The Pledge of Allegiance was followed by “My Country Tis of Thee”
 
Our Invocation was provided by Steve Christy
 
Song Leader Ron Carr led us in "Ride on Old Paint"
 
LUNCH
 
Linda Copp steped in to cover the Secretary’s responsibilities 
 
Visitors
 
Jean Flaherty-Wulpern was joined by Kerry Wulpern, who will be gainfully employed, starting Monday September 26, at DHMC.
 
Rob Titus from Hanover Club, a fellow traveler to Australia with the RFE group
 
Then on to the drawing - - Ernst had the lucky ticket [seems like such as short time since his last drawing] Anyway he drew the 8 of Diamonds to a collective sigh of all there.
 
Dan Nash used his  Rotary Minute to take a brief journey back to the founding of the Rotary Foundation in this its centennial year   He reminded us that at the 1917 international convention, outgoing Rotary President Arch Klumph proposed to set up an endowment “for the purpose of doing good in the world.”  In 1928, it was renamed The Rotary Foundation, and it became a distinct entity within Rotary International.
 
 
 
Announcements
 
Ron Carr - No spoke last few weeks 
Dan Nash – reminded us about the Third Annual Wings & Wheels At LEB Airport on Saturday September 24 This week. 
Requested that Jane send out an Auction Update 
Brags 
 
Ron Carr [2]
House Guest here for an International Orienteering Competition being held locally
Washington Post called Ron Carr about donation 
 
Ron Michaud – Update on Hillary.   It has been one year since the pelvis fracture; she is now getting out and doing much better
 
Bill Babineau - Daughter has new job, working on the TV show
“Naked and Afraid”   - no one, kindly, asked for details
 
Don MacMeekin bragged for Rick Dyment and a wonderful airport tour he provided for Don’s family
 
Speaker:   
Steve Whitman.   Recalling A Visit to Australia via Rotary Friendship Exchange during March 2016, with Rotarians mainly from our area.
He said he had three goals [at least]
Show you a bit about Australia 
Convince to RFE a "shot"
Share through pictures and stories the fun they all had 
 
It was an excellent presentation, with so much more detail and images that can be shared here. .  Great Details & Pictures 
 
It is an excellent PPT;   maybe we can put on our web site. ?? One tidbit   shared as we looked at a field of tea plants: Green teas and black teas come from same plants.   You figure it out!   Respectfully submitted, Dan Affeldt
Spoke 9/22/2016 Dan Affeldt 2016-09-28 04:00:00Z 0

Assignments 10/6/2016

 
Thursday, October 6, 2016
Jane G. Mason               Greeter
Evan Leary                  Rotary Minute
Jon Blodgett                Invocation
Philip Rentz                Spoke
Steve Christy               Song Leader
 
 
 
Assignments 10/6/2016 Ron 2016-09-24 04:00:00Z 0

Roteract - Norwich University

Pres Kevin received a request from the Roteract club at Norwich University to assist them further with their work in Pommerin, Tanzania.
Donations have enabled the creation of a very impressive master campus plan. The next step is the building of a barn within the complex.
Students from the Roteract club will be going to Pommerin again in August 2017.
Details of their progress and their plans are contained in a PDF file available in download files on the webpage and from the spoke.
 
Roteract - Norwich University Ron Carr 2016-09-24 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 9/15/2016

Posted by Daniel Nash
 
Called to order by: Pres Kevin
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: My Country Tis of Thee
 
Invocation: Dan Affeldt
 
Song Leader: Steve Whitman                       Song: In the Shade of the Old Apple Tree
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Barry Shailer, Sands, Bermuda
 
Guests:
John Higgins (Leb Charter School)(Ron Michaud)
 
Raffle: Forrest got the answer, Evan Leary had the right number, but did not draw the Queen
 
Announcements:
Riverside looking for assistance with Public Service project
Riverside exploring merging back with Leb
Joint Rotary meeting, Han-Leb, to host Australian visitors at Dowds on 3 Oct
Australian visitors to visit Leb club next week and make presentation.
John Higgins to present on 29Sep
Rotary sign finally redone; painting by Danielle Babineau; thanks!
 
Brags:
Steve Christy shared his shameful entertainment of Aussie guests during their last visit
Steve Christy shared that birthday of #1 grandson coming soon
John Y shamed Steve C. and his flying skills
Ernst shared some paddling adventures
Bruce Pacht shared some adventures with the Aussies in ‘81
 
Rotary Minute: Linda.
 
Speaker: Committee meetings
Social: BBQ with police, BAH sometime in Jan/Feb
Community Service: Baker’s crossing this Sat, possible cover project, rail trail, Farnum Hill Ridge Trail
Youth Services: Mascoma Interact underway
Grants & Finance: no report
Vocational Service:  important to share values of your profession with Rotary (classification talks)  and for you as a Rotarian to share Rotary’s values with your profession
Membership: Need to improve low attendance, improve response in project participation, promote Rotary!
Spoke 9/15/2016 Daniel Nash 2016-09-24 04:00:00Z 0

Baker's Crossing

story-thumbnail
Ernst, Matt and Cathy were the three who cleaned up Baker's Crossing last Saturday.
Note new photo album.
Baker's Crossing Ron Carr 2016-09-21 04:00:00Z 0
Auction 37! Ron Carr 2016-09-12 04:00:00Z 0

Auction 37 Files

Copies of most Auction 37 files are available under Club Documents off the Administration menu after Login.
Donor letter and form are also available on the front page of the website under Download Files
Auction 37 Files Ron Carr 2016-09-12 04:00:00Z 0
Sorry, no Spoke was recorded for September 8 either Ron Carr 2016-09-07 04:00:00Z 0
Guatemala Medical Mission staffed by Cathy Schenider Catherine Schneider 2016-08-28 04:00:00Z 0
Re-issue of 8/25/2016 Bulletin Ron Carr 2016-08-28 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 08/25/2016

Posted by Ron Carr
 
Called to order by: Pres Kevin
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: O Beautiful for Spacious Skies (A Capella…shows how much we miss Ernst
 
Invocation: Steve Usle
 
Song Leader:                         Song: No song today
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Ed Nichols from Sebring FL
 
Guests:
N/A
 
Raffle: Paul Boucher got the 9 of spades. I was close enough to hear “story of my life…”
In Willie’s absence, Suellen reminded us that we are celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the National Park Service.
 
Announcements:
Marion Steiner announced November 19 for the Auction, at Fireside Inn. She passed out Contribution Forms, hopefully to be filled out by donors. Also lists of donors per Rotarian: the ones in yellow are to be contacted by mail, if not in person, including a form. Rotary envelopes were also provided for this purpose. Oct 25 is the target date to get all donations in. On-line auction goes live November (1?) and close November 12.
 
Kevin reminded members of the Committee Survey sent out: purpose is to determine specifically which committees each member would be most interested in, so that our committees can be more productive. We have had only 15 responses!!! Ron will send out another copy to those who have not responded.
 
Phil Rentz informed us that the Pie Sale netted $4151, to be split with Riverside.
 
Brags:
Rick Dyment expressed a little frustration that his proposed business plan, which was requested by selectmen, was then not funded by those selectmen. He then proceeded to tell a story about his son who, (I hope I got this right) had a serious arm injury, could not find the right bandages at Walmart or the drug store, and ended up wrapping his arm in brown paper and shipping tape. (See Rick for the full/correct story.
 
Paul Tierney will provide the Rotary Foundation with a $200 check to celebrate another birthday. He was silent on the matter of which one.
 
Ron C bragged about his granddaughter who just donated at least 10" of her beautiful red hair to a cancer group. This was her 2nd or 3rd time. His other granddaughters has donated her blond hair in the past, as well.
 
Rotary Minute: Joanne Lemieux subbed for Steve Whitman, and quoted a statement about Friendship being a base for Rotary.
 
Speaker: Tom Youngholm on Stress Management
Tom is the author of: The Celestial Bar and Mastering the Art of Balance
 
Who am I? Some self-examination can help reduce stress by gaining understanding of yourself, what you want, what you do well etc.
Stress manifests itself as a throwback to “Fight or Flight”, where your body is reacting to threatening conditions. In the past, these conditions were often life-threatening, but now? They are generated by your belief system. Alter your belief system and you can reduce stress.
Control stressful moments by breathing! Take a deep breath, release, and you should find yourself with some relief, and have time to cope, consider your reactions, consider alternatives.
Diet, Rest, Exercise: keys to helping keep your stress levels down.
Spoke 08/25/2016 Ron Carr 2016-08-26 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 8/18/2016

Meeting Called to order by President Kevin
 
Opening Song: Rotary
 
Patriotic Song led by Bruce Pacht:  My Country tis of thee
 
Song:   No song piano player Ernst still out
 
Visiting Rotarians:   None
 
Guests:  Brian White guest of Evan
                Zoe Grodan RYLA attendee from Mascoma High School guest of Steve Whitman.  Zoe spoke of her experiences at RYLA and look to promote the program at the High School this year.
 
Raffle:  Don McMeekin drew the Ace of Spades so the money is safe for another week.
 
Announcements:  Marion Steiner reported that the annual Auction will be held at the Fireside Inn & Suites on November 19, 2016
                                 Bill Babineau reported that dues bills have been e-mailed to members but for those not so inclined he has had copies also.
                                 The District Governor will be making his visit on September 1, 2016.  We need a good attendance at this meeting
                                 The Hanover Rotary Club is having a gala on November 15th
 
Rotary Minutes:  Jon Blodgett reported on the Council of Legislation's votes at the 2016 International Convention.  Many changes such as meetings how many, different days to meet  to accommodate members.
All of this to increase membership and keep our members.
 
Brags:
 
Rich Wallace on his daughter returning to UNH and the wonderful experience she had working  at Mascoma Savings Bank this summer.
Bruce Pacht:  On his new experiences with his motorcycle.  This one does not have training wheels
Forrest Cole:  On his experience driving for Upper Valley Ride
Jennifer Grant:  On tying the knot at the Calvin Coolidge birthplace recently
Bill K: On his upcoming trip to Munich with the family
Jane Mason:  On her father's and brother's trip to Switzerland
Jamie Whyte:  On his visit to the newly remodeled Mascoma High and Middle School renovations.
 
Program:  Club Forum
 
Spoke 8/18/2016 Ron Carr 2016-08-23 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 8/11/2016

Posted by Ron Carr
Called to order by: Pres Kevin
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: O Beautiful For Spacious Skies (Thanks for the pitch, Bruce!)
 
Invocation: John Yacavone
 
Song Leader: No Ernst, no song       Song:
 
Visiting Rotarians:
N/A                
 
Guests:
Rev John Nwagbaraocha
 
Raffle: Speaker Beth won the draw by missed the Queen
 
Announcements:
September 1 District Governor Jay Polimeno will be here!!!
Don M presented two expenditures for votes from the membership, as approved by the board:
  1. $1250 donation to Paddlepower: an amendment to change that to $2500 was defeated: $1250 approved by membership.
  2. $1005 donation for the restoration of 3 Civil War soldier’s headstones: Paul T objected as not being in compliance with Giving Guidelines, and he also felt we should spend money on the living persons in Lebanon: expenditure was not approved by the membership.
Pres Kevin announced that Ron C will be sending out a survey to the membership regarding personal preferences for Committee membership
 
Brags:
Willie and Paul T skirmished over who should pay fine for oversight on a procedural matter. Your scribe is not sure whether anyone paid the fine…
Bruce P told a long story relating to his father having hated motorcycles, and Bruce’s progressive disobedience to this position over time, to the present where he has a 250 CC Honda Rebel to run motorcycle drag races with…
Joann L produced the very weak excuse that she will miss next week’s meeting because she is attending a James Buffett concert in Bangor Maine.
 
Rotary Minute: Valerie A, some pithy quotations from various Rotary leaders over time
 
Speaker: Willie introduced Kristen McKenna and Beth Shinsky from Lebanon’s River Valley Community College. Kristen is Associate VP Academic Affairs and Director of the Academic center at Lebanon. Beth is the Admissions Recruiter for the college.
Note that Lebanon’s River Valley is not a Campus but an Academic center: the difference has to do wih a number of full-time staff positions for various kinds of support functions.
Lebanon RV is: NEASC accredited, just like Granite State, Dartmouth and Harvard.
It various individual program accreditations as well.
Rates are lower than colleges in the area, as in $6455 vs UNH $16,663 (Room and board deducted).
Class sizes 15-20. Program Directors are also student advisors.
Student Success Center is impressive! Provides for alternative testing: computer lab; tutoring; variety of textbooks; Study skills materials; services for students with disabilities; Workshops; Career assistance. Faculty members can often be found in the student center offering assistance.
Student Life is actively supported by the college, providing:
Student government
Student clubs (and ability to create more)
Student trips
Fun campus events
Volunteer opportunities (open for suggestions for volunteer needs)
College is also focusing on community needs, in their curriculum and their student participation: also open for suggestions from the professional community!
 
Spoke 8/11/2016 Ron Carr 2016-08-12 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 8/4/2016

 
Called to order by: President Kevin
 
Opening Song: Rotary
 
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful
 
Invocation: Jon Blodgett
 
Song Leader: Cathy Schneider          Song: Good Night Irene
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Tom MacMeekin, past president of Rotary club of Devises, Devonshire England
 
Guests:
Ernst had a monkey as his guest and it sang to us.
 
 
Raffle: Jon Blodgett did not draw the Queen of Hearts, so the pot grows
 
Announcements:
Garlan had two Opera tickets to give away, not sure if anyone took them
Australian visitors will be here on October 10.  Steve W still needs a house for one female visitor so here is your opportunity to be involved.
Steve Needs Drivers for some of the day trips as we host the Australians, reach out to him if you are interested.
October 13 will be dinner with our Australian guests at Dowds county Inn.  This will replace our normal Thursday meeting.
There was a signup sheet passed around to indicate if you are interested in joining the Riverside club as it hosts James Vara on August 16th at their normal Tuesday meeting at 7:10 AM in the Dwinell Room.
 
Brags:
 
Rotary Minute: Rich Wallace on Membership Retention, very good points made.
 
Speaker: Captain Tim Cohen of the Lebanon Police Department spoke about what it is like to be a cop in the current climate.  Tim opened by telling us he is a very avid drum collector, restorer and musician playing some 4-6 times per week and teaching several students during the week.
He attended the police academy and graduated in 1997.  He set the stage by sharing the story of his friend and academy make, Jeremy Sharon, who he last saw at a funeral for a fallen officer.  That night  officer Sharon was shot and killed in the line of duty.  Very sad memories and it changed his attitude about his job and people he interacts with on a daily basis.  He realized it was changing him so he had a decision to make, let the job dictate who he is and how he reacts to situations or to remain true to who he is and do the best job he can.  He has chosen the latter, being true to himself.
The job is difficult and they see the bad side of events so it could be easy to be tainted by the situations police endure.  He and most all of the other officers he knows fight this every day.  It is hard not to become hardened and withdrawn given their work environment. 
The picture painted does not condone the behavior of the officers who overstep, but of one of managing the situation so that it is handled as effectively and with the least amount of collateral damage and injury as possible.  It became exceedingly clear that it is very difficult, in the heat of the moment, to always be in control but they have to do their very best to meet the expectations of the general public and their colleagues.
Tim did state that in the three departments he has worked in he has seen no evidence of Race or Religion playing a role in how an officer responds to a situation.
 
Submitted by: Don MacMeekin
Spoke 8/4/2016 Don MacMeekin 2016-08-10 04:00:00Z 0
New Photo Album! 2016-07-30 04:00:00Z 0

Low Attendance Costs Us Money!

On July 28, 2016, there were 19 members in attendance.
Our club paid for 25 lunches, as we do every week.
Do the math: we are wasting money.
Please come to meetings when you can!
 
(Poorly written by Ron Carr, at the request of President Kevin)
*President Kevin did not request that I write it poorly. I did that myself.
Low Attendance Costs Us Money! Ron Carr 2016-07-30 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 7/28/2016

DATE:  July 28, 2016
CALL TO ORDER 12:15 PM
Welcome to the July 28, 2016meeting of the Rotary Club of Lebanon, NH
  • OPENING SONG-R O T A R Y
  • SALUTE TO THE FLAG
  • PATRIOTIC SONG – Oidtmann
  • INVOCATION – Paul Boucher
  •  
  • VISITING ROTARIANS - 12:45 PM – SECRETARY Koppenheffer
    • GUESTS - SECRETARY
    • RAFFLE – SECRETARY
  • Song – Jon Blodgett – Take me out to the ball game.
  • ROTARY MINUTE – Don Macmeekin
  • AUCTION UPDATE – November 12, 2016 at the Fireside Inn
  • COMING EVENTS
Presidents Picnic July 31st
  • BRAGS
  • ANNOUNCEMENTS- Paul announced the National Night Out is Tuesday August 2nd 5-8 pm, need some people to be at the Rotary display.
  • SPEAKER INTRODUCTION –Classification Talks – Don Macmeekin and William Koppenheffer.
ADJOURN – FOUR WAY TEST
  • Is it the Truth?
  • Is it fair to all concerned?
  • Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
  • Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
Spoke 7/28/2016 Kevin Gould 2016-07-30 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 7/21/2016

Posted by Ron Carr
Called to order by: PP Don
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: O Beautiful for Spacious Skies
 
Invocation: PP Don
 
Song Leader: Bartolo Governanti                 Song: Wabash Cannonball
 
Visiting Rotarians:
None
 
Guests:
None
 
Raffle: Bartolo got the answer, but not the Queen
 
Announcements:
Sign up for Nighthawks game on Clubrunner
Sign up for President’s Picnic on Clubrunner
Ernst passed around pictures of Mascoma cleanup
 
Brags:
Don exhausted, but happy with 4 grandchildren visiting
Rich Wallace went to Fenway Park – to see Paul McCartney! Wonderful show, with NO intermission!
Nate Miller will be departing to Southern NH on August 15 to new job.
 
Rotary Minute: Bruce Pacht spoke about the article on Bangladesh: country has moved away from open defecation, a serious health risk.
 
Speaker: Committee meetings
Social: Bartolo spoke of the President’s Picnic, Jean Wulpern suggested a picnic for Lebanon PD to show support, possibly at Riverside Park
Community Service: Mascoma Cleanup
Youth Services: Steve Whitman spoke of visit by RYLA attendees to tell us about their experiences: Speech Contest: Interact at Mascoma HS looking goog-16 possible participants, Rotary vote at August meeting to support this effort. School board has approved the club.
Grants & Finance: Contribution suggested for Paddlepower, $1500-$2500. Participate in Adopt a Vet’s Civil War headstone, $1000. Suggested Dar es Salaam programs: $1900 for porridge for visitors to clinic: they wait for hours with no food. Also playground at clinic for kids - $300.
Membership: Brought up the need for members from some of our major businesses, organizations in Lebanon, such as Hypertherm, municipal govt, education etc. Letters to top management may not be effective, need personal contact. Ron sent out email to all members listing organizations we would like to contact, looking for members that know somebody in upper management to pose the question.
 
August 4 Captain Timothy Cohen, Lebanon PD will speak on Leb PD response to current events.
 
Monday July 25 at 6:00 AM Ron Carr got power back, so you get a Spoke!
 
Spoke 7/21/2016 Ron Carr 2016-07-25 04:00:00Z 0

Assignments 7/28/2016 - 8/4/2016

Thursday, July 28, 2016
Bartolo Governanti          Spoke
Don MacMeekin               Rotary Minute
Jamie Whyte                 Invocation
Jon Blodgett                Song Leader
Valerie Armstrong           Greeter
 
Thursday, August 4, 2016
Don MacMeekin               Spoke
Jean Flaherty-Wulpern       Rotary Minute
Linda Copp                  Greeter
Valerie Armstrong           Song Leader
Westin Greene               Invocation
Assignments 7/28/2016 - 8/4/2016 Ron Carr 2016-07-25 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 7/7/2016

Posted by Paul Boucher
 
 

CALLED TO ORDER:  President Kevin

 

OPENING SONG:    Rotary

 

INVOCATION:          Ron Carr

 

PATRIOTIC SONG:  None,  No Ernst no song

 

VISITING ROTARIANS:    None

 

GUESTS:   None

 

RAFFLE  WINNER:  John Yacavone, picked the wrong card

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS:  

NightHawk base ball game Sunday the 10th at 5:00 PM

President's Picnic July 31st at President Kevin's

Australian visiting team coming in October

Marion Steiner: Annual Auction October 1st (tentative) with seed money coming from the Byrne Foundation money

                                       

Ron  Michaud : There is a possible new site for a picnic area on Mechanic Street using String of Pearl money. 

Phil Rentz: Pie sale a great success, monies still coming in.

                       

 ROTARY MINUTE:      By Bartolo on the history of women in Rotary.

 

BRAGS:                          

Anniversary brags:    Paul B 46 years

                                     Paul T.  39 years

                                     Kathy  S.  12 years

                                     Joann: Daughter 4 years

 

PROGRAM:                 Joann Lemieux and and Ron Carr on Club Runner encouraging more

                                     club participation with instructions on how to use the program.

 

Submitted by             Paul Boucher

Spoke 7/7/2016 Paul Boucher 2016-07-12 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 6/23/2016

Posted by Jennifer Grant
 
Called to order by: President Don MacMeekin
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: My Country Tis of Thee
 
Invocation: Rich Wallace shared the words from John Lennon’s song “Imagine”, reminding us how they reflect a world such as we might want to live in.
 
Song Leader: Jeanne Flaherty-Wulpern        Song: Jeanne asked the Club members to stand for “I’ve Been Working on the Railroad”
 
Visiting Rotarians:
 
Guests:
Zelma Loseke of Bradford visited, as a guest of Bruce Pacht.  Zelma is a private care nurse at Kendal.  She is involved in a variety of volunteer work, from the Thetford Chamber Singer to service in Bosnia.  In the past, she has also provided respite for families in the Vermont foster care system.  She is considering joining our Club.
 
Raffle: Jeanne won the draw.  We have a new deck of cards of questionable origin.
 
Announcements:
 
The Club voted on our District Representative to the Nominating Committee that will select the next RI President.  Members spoke out in support of both candidates, Ken Grabeau and Abraham Gordon.  Ken Grabeau was favored (14 - 4).
 
The Pie Sale is coming up.  Members have been manning a booth at the Farmer’s Market, also promoting the River Clean-up.  Ernst reminded members that they should either volunteer for the River Clean-up or contribute an indulgence with regrets.
 
Brags:
 
Steve & Carolyn Whitman’s 52nd anniversary is June 27th.  Marion has completed the Leadership Upper Valley program.  Jennifer’s organization, Windsor County Partners, had a successful wine tasting to raise funds for youth mentoring.  Rich reported that the dinner honoring Upper Valley athletes was also a success.
 
Ron’s wife Hillary, still in recovery from the double breaking of her pelvis, is now able to go out & about without Ron at her side.  Valerie’s son is playing on the American Legion baseball team.  She has fundraising raffle tickets for the Fishercats.  Ernst shared the history of his training/career path, which ultimately led him to Lebanon.  Nate fined himself for arriving too late to fulfill his greeter duties. 
 
Rotary Minute: Steve Usle shared the Rotary Code of Conduct and encouraged us to apply it.
 
Speaker:
Dick Podolec of the Hanover Club spoke about the District’s success in reaching its One Million Dollar Campaign, targetted for a gift to the Rotary Foundation.  Dick said that individual donations to this Campaign were still encouraged and that these could be as bequests.  There will be a dinner celebration in Woodstock, NH to honor those who gave gifts of $10,000 or more.  All Rotarians are invited to attend the dinner. 
 
Dick shared a video about a project started by Ray Martin, a kitchen designer and a Rotarian from Queensland, Australia.  The Surfer Sunrise project uses old bike parts and either volunteer or low cost labor to create wheelchairs for children in Fiji.  For only $100 in materials, the group can create a functional wheelchair.
 
Submitted by: Jennifer Grant
Spoke 6/23/2016 Jennifer Grant 2016-07-12 04:00:00Z 0

Two Spokes!!!

Posted by Ron Carr
For your evening reading, we are happy to provide you with 2 issues of  The Spoke!
 
Two Spokes!!! Ron Carr 2016-07-12 04:00:00Z 0

Assignments 7/14/2016 - 7/21/2016

Thursday, July 14, 2016
Don MacMeekin               Song Leader
Jean Flaherty-Wulpern       Rotary Minute
Linda Copp                  Spoke
Rich Wallace                Greeter
Valerie Armstrong           Invocation
 
Thursday, July 21, 2016
Bartolo Governanti          Song Leader
Don MacMeekin               Invocation
Jean Flaherty-Wulpern       Spoke
Jon Blodgett                Greeter
Ron Carr                    Rotary Minute
Assignments 7/14/2016 - 7/21/2016 Ron Carr 2016-07-12 04:00:00Z 0
Current Projects Ron Carr 2016-06-22 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 6/16/2016

Posted by Stephen Christy
 
June 16, 2016
 
The meeting was called to order by President Don MacMeekin.  Opening song was “R-O-T-A-R-Y” followed by “America, the Beautiful”.  The song leader was Linda Copp who led us in “In the Good Old Summertime”.
The question was how many people died on the Lewis & Clark Expedition?  The answer was one person, who died most likely of a ruptured appendix.  It would take a doctor to know that, and that’s just what Dr. Ernst did.  He proceeded to draw the Queen of Hearts, but I couldn’t hear exactly what he said to do with the winnings.
There were no guests and one visiting Rotarian, Father John, who still claims that he’s going to join the club.
 
We were reminded that the Mascoma River Clean Up is scheduled for June 25th.
The incoming District Governor will be in attendance at Change Over on June 30th at Mountain Meadow Event Center, 478 U.S. Route 4, Canaan, NH  03741.
Suellen did the Rotary minute.  What makes Rotarians different?  We must act responsibly and think differently.
Paul Boucher bragged that he was halfway through his first day of retirement.
Ernst said he had the kayak on the car and he is headed north at 4:00 p.m.  He was looking Forrest Cole.
Father John bragged that he had filed for membership in the club (Haven’t we heard this before?)
John Blodgett bragged on his 43rd wedding anniversary.
Jean Wulpern bragged that she was twelve years behind John, at 31!
Jennifer Grant bragged that the Windsor Partners would be the beneficiary of the Wednesday, June 22nd Dan & Whit’s wine tasting at the Norwich Inn, Norwich, VT.
 
This week was a club forum.  Paul Tierney led a discussion about homelessness in the Upper Valley and what the club’s response to it should be.  After a twenty or so minute discussion it was decided that the issue was probably not completely understood (the size of the problem, the underlying causes, etc.) and the project currently is of an unknown scope.  Because of these issues and question it was decided that the club should have a role in the discussion.  As such the club will attempt to have representation on the homeless task force established last week by the Lebanon City Council.  Just who will represent the Club is still unclear to the writer.
 
 
Spoke 6/16/2016 Stephen Christy 2016-06-22 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 6/2/2016

Posted by Lorraine Morrison
 Called to order at 12:15 by President Don
 
Opening Song was Rotary
Patriotic song-America The Beautiful
Invocation Jennifer Grant
 
Song Leader –-Jaime Whyte-Home on the Range
Visiting Rotarians- None
 
Raffle-Steve Usle won the ticket draw lost with Jack of Hearts
 
Announcements-
Ernst- River Clean up   Sat. June 25th-assemble 9:00 CCBA pavilion- Indulgencies are $20- Still working on removing dumpster making some progress
June 30th -Changeover at Mountain Meadow in Canaan-sign-up sheet was circulated
July 4th- Annual Pie Sale- Sign-up circulated both for pies and more volunteers for day of sale
July 10th- Nighthawk game  Adults $5, children free
Bill Koppenheffer will take over the duty of lining up speakers, Great Job Steve
Katherine Schneider will chair Community Service
Steve Usle- Need more pies for pie sale- sign-up sheet being circulated
Marion- Auction list being circulated, please review for accuracy of merchants each member is responsible for soliciting for this year’s auction
Jennifer Grant- June 22nd, wine tasting evening at Norwich Inn fund raiser for Windsor County Partners
 
Bill Babineau- Remind members of the October trip to Ghana
Rotary Minute-Ron Carr= None
 
BRAGS-
Kevin- Bragged about the birth of his great niece Violet Cecilia
Steve Christy- Article in today’s VN regarding about Pete Begin saving a young man’s life.  Pete Begin is the security officer at Mascoma Savings Bank
 
Ron Carr- Granddaughter graduated from Vassar College
 
Ron Carr-Friends of Veterans are holding a golf tournament and are looking for sponsors

 
Speaker- Laura Byrne, Executive Director HIV/HCV Resource Center in Lebanon
The mission of HIV/HCV Resource Center is to support and empower those whose lives are affected by HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C to live fully and with dignity and to stop the spread of these diseases through education, information, and understanding.
Originally founded 26 years ago by volunteers as a support network for their friends who were sick and dying from AIDS related illnesses, the HIV/HCV Resource Center is now a comprehensive AIDS Service Organization. Located in Lebanon, New Hampshire, we offer a wide range of services that include individual/family case management, support groups, assistance with transportation to medical and mental health appointments, emergency financial and resource assistance (including housing, fuel, food, clothing and medical needs), HIV and HCV testing, and prevention education. In 2005, we expanded our mission to include individuals infected with and affected by Hepatitis C, and opened our syringe exchange in 2006. All of our services are free of charge to residents of Windsor and Orange counties in Vermont and Grafton and Sullivan counties in New Hampshire.  
This and more information may be found on their website.
.
 
Spoke 6/2/2016 Lorraine Morrison 2016-06-10 04:00:00Z 0

Assignments 6/16/2016 - 6/23/2016

When you know your vacation plans please let Ron Carr know,
to prevent task assignment on those dates!
 
Thursday, June 16, 2016
Bartolo Governanti          Greeter
Bruce Pacht                 Invocation
Linda Copp                  Song Leader
Steve Christy               Spoke
Suellen Griffin             Rotary Minute
 
Thursday, June 23, 2016
Jean Flaherty-Wulpern       Song Leader
Jennifer Grant              Spoke
Nathan Miller               Greeter
Rich Wallace                Invocation
Steve Usle                  Rotary Minute
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assignments 6/16/2016 - 6/23/2016 Ron Carr 2016-06-10 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 5/19/2016

Posted by V. Bruce Pacht
Received 5/20/2016 at 10:16 AM! Atta boy Bruce!!!
 
19-05-16:  Club Assembly
 
Rotarians were expected to take seats at the table where their committee label was displayed.
 
MCTO circa 12:15 PM by Pres. Don.
We sang “R-O-T-A-R-Y” and “America.”
 
INVOCATION by Garlan Hoskin.
 
Secretary’s report by Will Koppenheffer
  • Visiting Rotarians:  None.
  •  
 
DRAW: 
Will’s question was about the fellow who inherited 1100 acres of George Washington’s land.  He built a home there in 1802 to be a monument to Old George, filled with GW’s antiques.  Unfortunately, his daughter married Robert E. Lee.  After the Civil War, the USA took the home for non-payment of taxes.  The family sued, and eventually got their money.  What is the national park within which the home sits?  Rich Wallace got the answer:  Arlington National Park.  Rich pulled Jon Blodgett’s ticket, but Jon failed the test. 
 
SONG:  “Clementine” led by Joanne Lemieux.
 
ROTARY MINUTE:  Evan Leary told us about the H2O collaboration in Ghana whose goal is to provide more than 80% of Ghana’s people with clean water; only 14% have safe   water now.  The group has created bore holes, wells, school latrines and public toilets along with 3 mechanized water delivery systems.  More than $4MM has been spent in Ghana, with similar amounts in several other countries.
 
COMING EVENTS by President Don:
  • 25 June:  Ernst:  Mascoma River Clean-up.  Everyone must participate.  Headquarters is behind the CCBA.  Ernst would like a short announcement on the back page of the Valley News’s Section A – Rich will take care of it.  Bartolo invited everyone to bring family and friends.
  • 30 June:  President Don’s Changeover menu includes turkey and pot roast and a cash bar.  $30 per person.  Sign-up sheet will begin circulation next week.
  • 10 July:  Upper Valley Nighthawks baseball game starts at 5 PM.  We need one more club to sign on in order to get a banner on the field.  Adults $5; kids free.
 
BRAGS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Paul Tierney:  City Center Ballet event tomorrow night includes dinner with Rotarians.  Garlan qualifies that he has room for 3 more people at Elixir Restaurant at 5:30 where each diner will order and pay for his own meal.  The Ballet begins at Briggs Opera House at 7:30 PM.  Kevin Gould adds that it’s worth it just to see the lightning bugs in their costumes.
 
Suellen Griffin:  The reconstituted innovation committee has 8 members; it met today for the first time with 7 of 8 folks showing up. 
 
Rich Wallace:  Daughter Brittney (sp?) is home from her 1st year at UNH;  she was recognized as UNH’s “most dependable tour guide giver”; also, as of 6 June, she begins a fulltime job as a flow teller at Mascoma Savings Bank, though Steve Christy did NOT pay a fine.
 
Valerie Armstrong was in Hawaii for the past two weeks.  She met a past president from Simi Valley Rotary who will visit us at some time in the future.  Also, Valerie’s son will perform on 4 June starting at 5:30 PM with the Dance Collective, which is putting on a recital; tickets are $13.
 
BOARD ACTION FOR CLUB CONSIDERATION:
The Board recommends adding $2,000 per year to the budgeted $2,000 for scholarships in order for us to provide two, $1000 scholarships to students attending a 2-year post-secondary school, and two scholarships to students attending a 4-year school.  Discussion brought us around to approve the additional $2,000 with the idea that the Youth Service committee should have flexibility to move funds from one category to another depending on the applications received.
 
CLUB FORUM took place for about 20 minutes after which a spokesperson from each committee reported:
 
Youth Service – Steve Whitman
2 RYLA students have been chosen.
2 Lebanon High School scholarship recipients have been chosen; we are working to identify 2 additional recipients from Mascoma Valley Regional High School.
At the request of the Innovation Committee, the Youth Service committee reviewed the “New Generations” requirements for RI President John Germ’s Citation in 2016-17.  The Youth Service committee believes that continuing with its efforts to establish and maintain an Interact Club at MVRHS would be the best path toward meeting the Citation requirements in this area.
 
Social – Bartolo Governanti
  • Changeover will take place at Mountain Meadow in West Canaan.Entertainment will be John Yacavone and a public address system.
  • Our joint Lebanon-Lebanon Riverside BBQ attracted about 2 dozen folks total from both clubs.Next time, we need to mix better with the other club.
  • Bartolo suggested we try a BBQ at Baker’s Crossing Conservation Area, perhaps in August at 5 PM in lieu of a daytime meeting.
  • Social committee is considering once a month in the winter, holding a cocktail hour at a member’s business as a way to see each other’s place of work.
  • This year’s President’s Picnic will take place at Kevin Gould’s home, 391 Williams Hill Road, Grafton, NH, on Sunday, 31 July.Kevin will provide proteins and soda; others bring things; 1-6 PM.
  • Next Business After Hours, we will try to involve the Hanover club.
 
Membership – Ron Carr
  • We need to concentrate on retention as opposed to new members – keep people on the books.
  • Suggestion of a fireside chat 6 months after a new member is in – what do you like and don’t like about the club?
  • Re-institute classification talks – new members haven’t done them and newer members don’t know old members’ vocations.
  • Another survey:what do you like and don’t like about our club? – simpler questions and answers.President Don would like to work on this survey as he has other questions.
 
Giving – Jennifer Grant
  • The Mascoma community science garden connects youth at the high school with an actual garden in the community; they learn skills in advance and continue working over the summer on the actual garden; some local farms are involved as well.Total budget is $4k of which $3k is staff; the committee is considering recommending $1k.Project starts 15 June.
  • Ledyard Charter School – Evan’s been in touch about their request for 5 Chromebooks to help students do their work.Evan will seek a written request from them.
 
Community – Ernst Oidtmann
Mascoma River clean-up:  Ernst is talking with helicopter operator to haul out a dumpster.  We want signs of Rotary for the videotapes, like “Rotary At Work” emblazoned on the helicopter!!  Also, Steve Usle will head up the annual Baker’s Crossing Clean-up this Saturday, 8:00-10:00 AM.
 
Kevin closed the meeting with a responsive reading of Rotary’s Four-Way Test.
Spoke 5/19/2016 V. Bruce Pacht 2016-05-20 04:00:00Z 0

Midsummer Night's Dream!

Posted by Garlan Hoskin
Join us at the City Center Ballet performance of A Midsummer Night's Dream at the Briggs Opera House to be preceded with dinner at the Elixer Restuarant in White River Junction!
 
Please plan to attend both the dinner beginning at 5:30 p.m. and the show which begins at 7:30 p.m.  It is not only extremely high quality ballet but a way of our supporting fellow Rotarian Linda and the Arts. 
 
Plan to bring your significant other and join us.  Please let me know if you will attend and I will order tickets in advance for you at a cost of $21.  Pick up and pay for tickets at the "will call" window.    You will order and pay for your own dinner and drinks but we will all plan to sit together.  A special reception follows the performance too....
 
Deadline for signing up is May 17th at heyhoskin@hotmail.com
Midsummer Night's Dream! Garlan Hoskin 2016-05-17 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 5/12/2016

Posted by Paul Tierney
 
Called to order at 12:15 by President Don
 
Opening Song was Rotary
Patriotic song-My Country Tis of Thee
Invocation Evan Leary
 
Song Leader –Garlan Hoskins-Yankee Doodle Dandy
Visiting Rotarians-Sue Shaw-Sue Donnelly
 
Raffle-Paul Tierney lost
 
Announcements-
Leb-West Leb Picnic Saturday June 14th at riverside park
Ernst River Clean up   Sat. June 25th-assemble 9:00 CCBA pavilion- Indulgencies are $20
 
Rotary Minute-Ron Carr=-The Pope sponsored a Jubilee of Mercy-9,000 Rotarians attended
 
BRAGS-
Linda Copp’s granddaughter is memorizing numbers and called her at 6:00 in the morning
 
City Center Ballet is presenting Mid Summer Night’s Dream on the May 20 and 21
 
Steve Usle solicited commitments for the July 4th Pie Sale
 
Sue Shaw discussed Lake Sunapee Bank’s Merger
 
Bruce Pacht reiterated   Rotary Night at the Fischer Cats on August 8th
 
Ron Carr-Friends of Veterans are holding a golf tournament and are looking for sponsors
 
Steve Whitman was the speaker-RE Youth Services-Fifth Avenue of Service
Mascoma High School Social Studies Teacher doing a Presentation on INTERACT as a service program
We are sending four students to RYLA
Steve reviewed several activities that the club is planning to engage students with, in 2016-2017
Most RI projects such as Student Exchange are open to Rotarian Children.
Spoke 5/12/2016 Paul Tierney 2016-05-17 04:00:00Z 0
Delayed but not forgotten! 5/5/2016 Spoke Marion Steiner 2016-05-16 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 5/5/2016

Posted by Marion
 
Called to order by: President Don 
 
Opening Song: Rotary          
 
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful
 
Invocation: Paul Tierney
 
Song Leader: Evan Leary            Song: Midnight Special
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Susan Donnelly
 
Guests:
None
 
Raffle: Phil, Lost- the Queen Still lives!
 
Announcements:
May 7th Green Up day
June 25th River Clean up
May 14th Picnic with Riverside club
June 30th Change over dinner at Mt. Meadow in Canaan
May 21st Baker’s crossing
Garlan: won 3rd in the Ducky race this past weekend.
 
Brags:
Garland- talked about getting a scam call.
Willy and his wife did Green Up day on May 7th.
 
Nate presented Jon Yacavone with a Paul Harris pin plus 6.
 
Rotary Minute: Bartolo Governanti talked about how it would be nice to hear more Clarification talks.
 
Speaker: Suellen Griffin about her trip to Iceland
  • She spent most of her time in Reykjavik
  • She went to the Blue Logon
  • She was able to see the Northern Light. It was cold out but it was worth it.
  • She talked about and show picture of the Geyser and how close people were standing to them.
  • Some of the other picture where beautiful wall art. And the beautiful buildings.
  • The inland is made up from lava rock.
  • She visited a church that had the biggest organ in the world.
  • Talked about the government.
  • Fishing is a big part of the economy
  • The food they service is mainly fish, lamb, and dairy. Not a lot of fruit and veg.
 
 
Spoke 5/5/2016 Marion 2016-05-16 04:00:00Z 0
Take Me Out to .... V. Bruce Pacht 2016-05-11 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 4/28/2016

Posted by Steve Whitman
 
Margaret Stacey, a Rotarian from Nelson, British Columbia attended the meeting. 
Jennifer led us in singing “In the Good Old Summertime” which was hummed by some members who had not previously sung the song.
Marion then gave us a quick discussion of Rotary’s use of Facebook and of her and Evan’s efforts to upgrade our Facebook page and develop more of a digital presence. Check here to see the results of their efforts. Excellent!
 JoAnn is also working with Ron on making changes to our website so that it is more accessible to the public as a place for them to learn about Rotary and what the Lebanon Rotary is up to.
Ernst won the draw but that was it.
Speaker:
Bruce Thompson of Webster, NH spoke to us about the role of the Employer Support of the Guard & Reserve (ESGR). Founded in 1972 ESGR is a Department of Defense program to foster the success of the All-Volunteer Force and the Reserve Components’ roles in the national security strategy. There are now 4500 volunteers, such as Bruce, operating in all 50 states and four other jurisdictions. They are supported by a small staff in the 54 State Committees.
Their efforts encompass building support and recognition among the service members, their families, employers and the DoD while in service and after leaving. They act as ombudsmen to solve problems for those who have served all of us.  Last year, NH had 12 cases involving employment laws and all 12 were settled successfully without going to the Dept. of Labor. In 2015 NH has 73 volunteers working with 4063 employers and 3787 service members.
Bruce left us with an outlook on this important area of employment activity. Today there are fewer Guard and Reserve members looking for a new job than there are employers looking to hire them.  He also indicated that the educational benefits of serving in the Guard & Reserve programs are being extensively used by many retirees to gain new jobs in the private sector.
For more information on the program go to: www.nhesgr.com or http://www.esgr.mil/
The “Lebanon/+1/Barre” Curling team was successful at the Friday night match at the District Conference at Jay Peak as they succeeded in defeating the Greater Sherbrooke team in the finals.
Our club was well represented with Dan doing the registration and Jane doing a Round Table on a wheelchair district grant. Then there were those who partook of the 3 D’s (that’s drinks, dinners and dancing) Don & Dorrie, Garlan &Heidi and Steve & Carolyn making the social scene. And last, but not least, Bill and Bartolo were there for the Flag Carrying ceremony and Saturday night dinner.  With the 6 or 8 from the Riverside Club, I’d say Lebanon was well represented and probably only surpassed in numbers by the Newport group.
The highlight, among the many talks, was the one by Dr. Bob Scott, a member of the Rotary Club of Cobourg, Ontario. Bob was the chair of the International PolioPlus Committee from 2006 to 2014. He has also served as Chair of the RI Foundation Trustees. He gave us all the stats which are impressive. Today, I should say this past week because he follows it every week, there are 78 cases left in two countries, Afghanistan and Pakistan. They are of the Type 1 series only since Type 3 is now extinct and Type 2 is gone but not yet certified as such. If we don’t succeed in the next few years, and let up on the effort, it is very clear from the studies done, that Polio will return at significant levels very quickly. 
 He then went on to speak of the danger that now exists in Pakistan because of the killings of the people who are on the ground giving out the doses. He figures about 250 people have died because of these actions and this is one of the major blocks in the road to eradication. He also said he has personally known far too many of those who have died. They are a very brave and dedicated group of young women who are carrying on this, hopefully, last step in the campaign.
Dates to remember:
As plans progress for the end of one Rotary year and the start of the next there have been many dates announced. Take note:
May 14                 Combined Lebanon Rotary Picnic at Riverside Park. Noon until 2PM - Horseshoes
May 26                 Riverside Rotary Annual Bedell Classic Golf Tournament at Eastman.
June 18                 District Changeover at Woodstock Inn, Woodstock, NH
June 24 -26         RYLA @ Lyndon State College
June 25                Mascoma River Cleanup – A project of the combined Lebanon Rotary Clubs.
June 30                 Lebanon Rotary Changeover Dinner at the Mountain Meadow Golf Lodge & Event Center in Canaan.
Spoke 4/28/2016 Steve Whitman 2016-05-02 04:00:00Z 0

2016 Council on Legislation

Summary of the accomplishments of the Council.
Passed on by Bruce Pacht.
 
The 2016 Council on Legislation may well be remembered as one of the most progressive in Rotary history.
Not only did this Council grant clubs more freedom in determining their meeting schedule and membership, it also approved an increase in per capita dues of $4 a year for three years. The increase will be used to enhance Rotary’s website, improve online tools, and add programs and services to help clubs increase membership.
The Council is an essential element of Rotary’s governance. Every three years, members from around the world gather in Chicago to consider proposed changes to the policies that govern the organization and its member clubs. Measures that are adopted take effect 1 July.
The tone for this year was set early, when the RI Board put forth two proposals that increase flexibility. The first measure allows clubs to decide to vary their meeting times, whether to meet online or in person, and when to cancel a meeting, as long as they meet at least twice a month. The second allows clubs flexibility in choosing their membership rules and requirements. Both passed.
Representatives also approved removing six membership criteria from the RI Constitution and replacing them with a simple requirement that a member be a person of good character who has a good reputation in their business or community and is willing to serve the community.
The $4 per year dues increase was based on a five-year financial forecast that predicted that if Rotary didn’t either raise dues or make drastic cuts, its reserves would dip below mandated levels by 2020. The yearly per capita dues that clubs pay to RI will be $60 in 2017-18, $64 in 2018-19, and $68 in 2019-20. The next council will establish the rate after that.
“We are at a moment in time when we must think beyond the status quo,” said RI Vice President Greg E. Podd. “We must think about our future.”
Podd said the dues increase will allow RI to improve My Rotary, develop resources so clubs can offer a better membership experience, simplify club and district reporting, improve website access for Rotaractors, and update systems to keep Rotary in compliance with changing global regulations.
Also because of this Council’s decisions:
  • A Council on Resolutions will meet annually online to consider resolutions — recommendations to the RI Board. Council members will be selected for three-year terms. They’ll participate in the Council on Resolutions for three years and the Council on Legislation in their final year only. The Council on Resolutions will free the Council on Legislation to concentrate on enactments — changes to Rotary’s governing documents. Proponents predict that the Council on Legislation can then be shortened by a day, saving $300,000.
  • Rotaractors will be allowed to become members of Rotary clubs while they are still in Rotaract. Proponents argued that too few Rotaractors (around 5 percent) join Rotary. Sometimes it’s because they don’t want to leave their Rotaract clubs before they have to, upon reaching age 30. It’s hoped that giving them more options will boost the numbers of qualified young leaders in Rotary.
  • The distinction between e-clubs and traditional clubs will be eliminated. The Council recognized that clubs have been meeting in a number of ways, and given this flexibility, the distinction was no longer meaningful. Clubs that have “e-club” in their names can keep it, however.
  • The reference to admission fees will be removed from the bylaws. Proponents argued that the mention of admission fees does not advance a modern image of Rotary.
  • A standing committee on membership was established, in recognition that membership is a top priority of the organization, and polio eradication was also reaffirmed to be a goal of the highest order.
 
 
 
2016 Council on Legislation 2016-04-27 04:00:00Z 0

National Friendship Week: Thoughts from Andy Rooney

Posted by John Yacavone
Passed on by John Yacavone
 
I've learned....
That the best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person.
 
I've learned....
That when you're in love, it shows.
 
I've learned ....
That just one person saying to me, 'You've made my day!' makes my day.
 
I've learned....
That having a child fall asleep in your arms is one of the most peaceful feelings in the world.
 
I've learned....
That being kind is more important than being right.
 
I've learned....
That you should never say no to a gift from a child.
 
I've learned....
That I can always pray for someone when I don't have the strength to help him in any other way.
 
I've learned....
That no matter how serious your life requires you to be, everyone needs a friend to act goofy with.
 
I've learned....
That sometimes all a person needs is a hand to hold and a heart to understand.
 
I've learned....
That simple walks with my father around the block on summer nights when I was a child did wonders for me as an adult.
 
I've learned....
That life is like a roll of toilet paper.
The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.
 
I've learned....
That money doesn't buy class.
 
I've learned....
That it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular.
 
I've learned...
That under everyone's hard shell is someone who wants to be appreciated and loved.
 
I've learned....
That to ignore the facts does not change the facts.
 
I've learned....
 That when you plan to get even with someone,
you are only letting that person continue to hurt you.
 
I've learned....
That love, not time, heals all wounds.
 
I've learned....
That the easiest way for me to grow as a person is to surround myself with people smarter than I am.
 
I've learned....
That everyone you meet deserves to be greeted with a smile.
 
I've learned....
That no one is perfect until you fall in love with them.
 
I've learned....
That life is tough, but I'm tougher.
 
I've learned....
 That opportunities are never lost; someone will take the ones you miss.
 
I've learned....
That when you harbor bitterness, happiness will dock elsewhere.
 
I've learned....
That I wish I could have told my Mom that I love her one more time before she passed away.
 
I've learned....
That one should keep his words both soft and tender, because tomorrow he may have to eat them.
 
I've learned....
That a smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.
 
I've learned....
That when your newly born grandchild holds your little finger in his little fist, you're hooked for life.
 
I've learned....
That everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you're climbing it.
 
I've learned....
That the less time I have to work with, the more things I get done.
National Friendship Week: Thoughts from Andy Rooney John Yacavone 2016-04-27 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 4/21/2016

Posted by Jamie Whyte
 
Called to order by: Pres Don
 
Opening Song: ROTARY
 
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful
 
Invocation: Steve Christy
 
Song Leader: Nate Miller                 Song: Carolina in the Morning
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Margaret Stacey – Nelson BC Canada
 
Guests:
 
Raffle: Paul Boucher won the draw but not the raffle.
 
Announcements:
District Conference coming up
May 7 Lebanon City wide clean up
Mascoma River clean up
Change over – June 30
Linda Copp looking for housing to put up a couple dancers May 2 & May 9 – Contact Linda     
Listen has a program to place kids in camps for the summer – if you know of a child please have them contact Listen for more information
 
Brags:
Jen Grant – Daughter is doing the college tours
Bruce Pact – Nation Eggs Benedict Day April 16 – 4 Aces Dinner was the place to be!
 
Rotary Minute: Paul Tierney
 
Speaker: Committee  Meetings
Spoke 4/21/2016 Jamie Whyte 2016-04-27 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 4/14/2016

Posted by Valerie Armstrong
 
 
 
Bruce gave invocation on the Hebrew Calendar and held a moment of silence for the 4 coming nice days
Song: yellow submarine led by Philip Rentz
Jamie: Rotary Minute: Rotarian march – Arch Klump pres in 1917 – Mr. Klump recommended that Rotary  start an endowment for “Doing Good” and today Rotary Foundation is the 5th best Charity in the US, making the world a better place!
Announcement: Announced Evan as newest member. Tuesday is BOD meeting, April 29-May 1st Jay Peak conference. Duck race and curling contest at this event.
Bartolo: entertainment committee: 14th of June – Rotarian event at Riverside park.
BRAGS: Kathy – Guatemalan trip team, $2,300 in club donations so far. Just under 10k in donations to date! She leaves June 25th for a week. John Yacavone –gave a check. Bruce: drove 5 hours to West Orange, NJ high school, for a 400 person dinner for a leadership institute faculty membership training. Ernst: He and Linda have been married 43 years each! Ron: Announced that his wife is now walker-free, finally after 6 months! Yay!   Joann Lemieux visited Costa Rica, horse back riding, zip lining, mineral baths… Really hard trip but she survived!
Jane Mason: Brother expecting 2nd grandchild!
Forrest: Drove to Ann Arbor, Mi and then flew home. During his return flight, he noticed the attendant, who at first, appeared sharp, but then began reading directions out of the manual and proceeded to fluster bubble several times. Despite this, he made it home safely! Whew!
Linda Copp celebrated her 14th wedding anniversary!
Don announced we are buying Rotary banners @ $100 each.
Steve Christie introduced speaker: Noah Crane is a NH native with 15 years in baseball industry; including roles of professional scout and executive for “Class  A”  affiliates. In 2010 he founded the Colonial Muskrats, and launched Upper Valley Nighthawks. Noah is a graduate from UMass.
Noah steps to the podium… He was born at Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital, and is a Lebanon native. The Upper Valley Nighthawks is a non-profit, New England collegiate baseball league with 30 elite level players from all over the country on the roster. They rival the Cape Cod league (rated next best), with talent only slightly below. It is organized by Noah and 13 other Upper Valley individuals. Games are heavily scouted. The season will run for 10 weeks, with players arriving on June 5th. The first game will be June 8th, and there will be 44 games throughout summer with 22 of them being home games.  The team plays 6 nights per week, starting at 6:30 pm, and attendance of 600-800 per game is speculated. General admission is $5, ages 17 and under are free. The games will be held at the New Max Field Sports complex, Rt. 5, Hartford, VT., and will have a Carnival/Farmers Market type atmosphere. The games will also be viewable online. The goal of the organization is promoting non-profits, and providing affordable family environment. The New England Collegiate Baseball League was formed in 1993, and presently consists of 13 teams. Host families are needed to share in the housing of players for the 10 week summer duration. All elite level players will have their own transportation. For more details, visit: http://uppervalleynighthawks.com/.
Spoke 4/14/2016 Valerie Armstrong 2016-04-19 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 4/7/2016

Posted by Suellen Griffin
Called to order by: President-Elect  Kevin Gould  at 12:15pm
 
Opening Song: R_O_T_A_R_Y
 
Patriotic Song: God Bless America
 
Invocation: Kevin Gould
 
Song Leader: Marion Steiner            Song: Take Me Out to the Ballgame
 
Visiting Rotarians:  None
 
Guests: None
 
Raffle: There was no raffle because the meeting was at Salt Hill
 
 
Announcements:  Ernst Oidtmann reminded everyone about the “Clean Up Day” on Sat. May 7. A sign- up sheet was passed around.  If you are interested in participating in the event contact Ernst.
 
Marion Steiner, Chair of the Auction Committee, reported that the auction date will be either Sept. 17 or Oct.1. TBD   She will send out an invitation to the auction comm. to set up the first meeting.
 
Bruce Pacht announced that he had tickets for the Fisher Cats game for Sat. Aug. 20.  The tickets are $12 and $4 goes to polio Plus. Let him know if you plan to go.
 
Brags:  Valerie Armstrong reported that she has officially been in her new office for 1 year and her son will be 15 ½ yrs old tomorrow.  He wants to start driving.
 
Garlan Hoskin will be going on an upcoming trip to Germany for 2 weeks.
 
Kevin Gould will be going on an upcoming trip to St. Martin for 2 weeks
 
Rick Dyment announced that today, April 7, was Forest Cole’s birthday and he turned in a check from Forest for the Mollica Fund.
 
Rotary Minute: Steve Christy
 
Speaker:   Nancy Bergin DuMont, Director of Community Health at APD, made a presentation on the 2015 Community health survey.
The files containing the detail of the survey and survey results are available on our Rotary website, under Download files.
This is a summary of the results:
 
Spoke 4/7/2016 Suellen Griffin 2016-04-12 04:00:00Z 0

Speaker 4/14/2016: Noah Crane, GM Upper Valley nighthawks!

This week’s speaker will be Noah Crane, the General Manager of the Upper Valley Nighthawks baseball team.  The Nighthawks are in the New England Collegiate Baseball League, similar to the Cape Cod League.  A number of the players wind up being drafted by major league teams.
 
Mr. Crane will be talking about baseball, the New England Collegiate Baseball League, and the upcoming season.
Speaker 4/14/2016: Noah Crane, GM Upper Valley nighthawks! Ron Carr 2016-04-11 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 3/31/2016

Posted by Philip Rentz
 
Called to order by: Don MacMeekin
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: My Country ‘Tis of Thee
 
Invocation: Steve Whitman        
 
Song Leader: Kevin Gould               Song: Moonlight Bay; short and sweet!
 
Visiting Rotarians:
 
None              
 
Guests:
 
Michael Samson, Canaan Town Administrator
 
 
Raffle: Forrest Cole had the correct answer to the National Parks quiz, but he pulled the Queen of clubs and not the Queen of Hearts! The question was: what National Park was featured in the RI magazine? Answer: Great Smokey Mountains National Park, the most visited of all of the National Parks.
 
Announcements:
*District Assembly April 2nd
*Riverside Club Golf Tournament May 26th   Contact Bruce Bergeron or Kimberly House.
*Upper Valley Nighthawks baseball looking for host families for visiting players.
(Flyers were at the tables for the Tournament and the Nighthawks.)
 
 
Brags:
Ernst Oidtmann: Holland wants to build a ‘mile high mountain off the coast’
Bruce Pacht: Back for 10-days in Tanzania, the Hotel he stayed in was the meeting place for several Rotary clubs. Bruce brought back a banner from The Rotary Club of Bohari Dar-es-Salaam.
Willey K. attended the Home Expo and had a visit with Deacon Boucher at the Chamber Booth and a photo-op with the Easter Bunny.
Jaime W. was relieved to have his hound recover from bloat.
Jean W. and husband Bob visited their daughter Carrie in Michigan who is defending her PhD thesis.
Jen Grant and Rob had a great time in Charleston SC.
Paul T. talked about economic development and that Henry Ford out-fitted his first assembly plant with $30,000 in machine tools!
Linda C. announced the production of Peter and The Wolf at Lebanon Opera House.
Bruce P. announced that his daughter Hayleigh, a 3rd year nursing student at UVM will be in a nurse residency program at DHMC.
Paul B. bragged at our table that his wife reads every word of the Spoke and the RI Magazine – remarkable!
 
 
 
Rotary Minute: Rich Wallace
 
Speaker: Michael Samson, Canaan Town Administrator, gave a presentation on the Mascoma Community Health Center non-profit organization which promises: ‘Right Care, Right Cost, Right Here’! The plan is to build a health facility between Canaan and Enfield that will provide health services at a cost of approximately $1,300 per person versus $4,000 per person at traditional facilities. The health center would provide services to residents in Dorchester, Canaan, Grafton, Orange, and Enfield, many of whom are without insurance. The land has been purchased and most of the funding is in place.  Ground breaking is scheduled for May 1, 2016 and the facility will be operational by March of 2017. They have received pledges from more than 2,600 residents to join the health center and from nine employers and institutions. Additional information is available at their web-site.
Spoke 3/31/2016 Philip Rentz 2016-04-04 04:00:00Z 0
Location Change - This Thursday! Salt hill pub 2016-04-04 04:00:00Z 0
Evan Leary, New Member Ron Carr 2016-03-30 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 3/24/2016

Posted by Ron Carr
 
Called to order by: Pres. Don
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: O beautiful for spacious skies
 
Invocation: John Yacavone
 
Induction: Evan Leary was inducted into the club. Evan's sponsor was Paul Boucher. Evan is from Enfield, and works with Family Financial Strategies in Lebanon.
 
Song Leader: Ron Carr       Song: A Policeman’s Lot Is Not a Happy One
 
Visiting Rotarians:
JoAnn Lemieux
 
Guests:
Linn Kisslebach
Evan Leary **
Martha and Jerry – support team for Nancy Liston
 
Raffle: Ron Carr won the chance to win, but drew the seven of diamonds-no joy
 
Announcements:
Steve Whitman gave a brief presentation of his trip to the Australian Gold Coast, 14 hours from LA! He visited in Rotary District 9640. He was part of a group including Rotarians from Hanover, Lebanon Riverside, Burlington and more. He brought back banners from Mullenberg(sp?), Tanterfield, and Surfer’s Sunrise clubs. Surfer’s Sunrise club and created 8000 wheelchairs made by Rotarians from bicycle frames!
Saturday, April 2 district training at Lyndon State College
April 29 will be the district conference at Jay Peak
our club has received a thank you letter for the Windows which we financed for the missionary in Pommerin, Tanzania
we were reminded that there is a district grant available: Phil Rentz will pursue in 2015, Nate Miller for 2016.
 
Brags:
Jane Mason mentioned that her father Pete, former Rotary member, turns 87. This is also James 21st anniversary for joining Rotary.
Rich Wallace mentioned that Valley news is celebrating the publishing of the new website.
Forrest Cole has received a thank you from the Ava gallery for the donation from the Mollica fund.
 
Rotary Minute: Westin Greene described a wide range of Rotary club activities: focused on Martha’s Vineyard Alzheimer’s project.
 
Speaker: Nancy Liston of Plainfield, NH
Nancy was introduced by Jane Mason, since Nancy used to work at CRREL, and was Jane’s supervisor. Nancy is widely traveled, and spoke to us about her recent trip to Cuba with Elderhostel.
 
There Was a Technical Problem with Nancy’s flash drive, but she carried through brilliantly without the use of PowerPoint technology.
Havana Cuba is a 48 minute flight from Miami: entry into Cuba was very simple as long as one have a Cuban these up. It is worth noting that the United States is the only country that has not been frequently visiting Cuba: the rest of the world has been represented they are often.
Cuba has a 50s atmosphere, as evidenced by the automobiles, most of which are American and from that era. Evidently spare parts for American cars are readily available from China, but most of the V8 engines have been replaced with six-cylinder engines.
There are a large number of restaurants, as growth of business and entrepreneurship is encouraged, particularly as evidenced by the requirement of a coin to use the bathroom.
She visited a modern dance troupe, which will perform in Boston in May: this is not unusual as many Cuban groups have performed in the United States. Later, when discussing the dance group with her daughter, she realized that they had seen this group perform years before at Jacobs Pillow.
They visited the Cologne Cemetery: this was full of very large headstones, multiple mausoleums and an acropolis. The guide said that there were 40 funerals a day. Given the approximately 40 acres available, a brief calculation reveals that the cemetery should run out of room very quickly. It does not, however, because it is a regular practice to dig up the deceased after two years and we bury them at other facilities. This is the family’s responsibility, and is generally accepted.
One more a was particularly interesting, since it was decorated with martini glasses around the edge.
The person in mausoleums was person who invented Daiquiris, and served Earnest Hemingway!
The bus was inspected upon leaving the cemetery, to ensure that there had been no theft of objects from the was leaves and headstones.
The group also visited a Meyer Lansky Museum: a was a mob boss who had financed a number of casinos in the old Havana: all of these casinos were burned down when Castro took over.
A speaker was present every day during their tour, and they were impressed with is generally honest presentations. There were a few topics, of course, that he was somewhat careful with. He pointed out that the agricultural base in Cuba used in to be sugarcane. Russia was the primary customer. In recent years, due to the Russian economic situation, sugarcane sales have decreased markedly, so that the agricultural emphasis is now shifting to more generalized uses. There is also a growing Chinese influence in Cuba.
Internet and cell phone service is very poor: in fact the cable system exists, but needs the communication industry to make it all work. There is significant hope that the United States will now provide the ability.
In talking with local businessman, Nancy was impressed with the fact that there seem to be little bitterness toward Castro, even though their businesses had been wiped out. There is an area along the beach which has a very long wall: in fact the United States embassy backs up against that wall. The group was impressed by the number of fishermen fishing on the edge of the beach, but noticed that there were no joggers as one might find in the United States. They were informed that Cubans are too busy for jogging.
There are no Marines guarding US Embassy: rather it is protected by Cubans. It is hoped that when an ambassador takes up residence, that Marines will indeed be allowed.
The capital building about was built in 1926, purposefully 6 inches higher than the United States. Housing is on the average 75 years old: average pay is $20 per month. Havana Is a World Heritage Site. Citizens are however provided the ability to build houses with 20 years of financing from the government: with no mortgage and no interest. 80% of their food is imported from South America.
Men are required to spend two years in the military: women are required to spend three years in education. Streets are largely paved with stones and brick carried as ballast in the ship’s from the 19th century.
Even though three quotes have visited Cuba in the last 15 years, Cuba does not want to be known as a Catholic country. More common is an Afro-Cuban religion. Nancy’s group swim in the Bay of Pigs. Marilla Castro (Fidel Castro’s daughter) runs a Masters and Johnson sex education facility!
 
Spoke 3/24/2016 Ron Carr 2016-03-30 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 3/17/2016

Posted by Rich Wallace
 
Meeting called to order by President Don
R-O-T-A-R-Y
My Country Tis of Thy
Invocation: Given by Sue Ellen
 
Secretary Report:
No visiting Rotarians
No Guests
 
Draw:
Valerie had the ticket but not the card.
 
Song:
Steve C. lead us in a rendition of “How are things in Glocca Morra”
 
Rotary Minute:
Lorraine explained where the 4 way test came from.
 
Announcements:
Don announced the 2016 District 7850 Conference. It will take place April 29 through May 1 at Jay Peak Resort in Jay, VT. Conference registration online at: http://bit.ly/2016districtconfernece
 
Don announced that the Innovation Committee is looking for two members to join the committee.
 
Kevin told us a little bit about PETS and the push in the upcoming year for membership.
 
Brags:
 
Ron C.- Eastman recived national award for Best Intergenerational Community and that he had just completed a website for Grace’s Grantham Café.
 
Nate M. – Curling team won Upper Valley Championship and he and his wife are expecting their first child.
 
Jennifer G– daughter turned 18 on March 18 and April 16 there will be a benefit for Windsor County Partners.
 
Jamie W – Son Alex has been invited to sing the National Anthem at a Fisher Cat Game.
 
Bill K – Daughter admitted to grad school – then moved to Germany and going to grad school for free.
 
Rick D – Was having a bad day until 15 kids showed up for Airport tour he had forgotten about. Kids were great and day got much better.
 
Ron M. – updated club on his wife Hillary.
Spoke 3/17/2016 Rich Wallace 2016-03-22 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 3/10/2016

Posted by Forrest Cole
 
Called to order by: Vice President Suellen Griffin
 
Opening Song: “Rotary” with Ernst Oidtmann on the piano.
 
Patriotic Song: “America” with Ernst on the piano
 
Invocation: Paul Boucher
 
Song Leader: Paul Tierney    Song: “Night and Day”
 
Visiting Rotarians:
None
 
Guests:
None
 
Raffle: Steve Christy answered the National Parks question and drew Linda Copp’s ticket number.  Linda, however, pulled the wrong card and lost the draw.
 
Announcements:
  • The club members voted to accept Evan Leary into the club.
  • Dick Wierwille, a former member our club lost is daughter Jennifer to cancer recently.  For those wishing to send a card, Dick and Lin’s address is: 520 Woodland Ave., Wooster, OH, 44691
  • Ernst Oidtmann announced the date of June 25 for our Mascoma River Clean-up Project.
 
Brags:
  • Paul Tierney paid for several brags, too numerous for me to record.
  • Catherine Schneider bragged about the current status of the fundraising effort for her medical missionary trip to Central America.
 
Rotary Minute: John Yacavone gave a brief presentation on the wisdom of Abraham Lincoln.
 
Speaker: Debbie Watrous, Executive Director of New Hampshire Humanities (NHH), and Steve Taylor, founding member of New Hampshire Humanities and speaker for Humanities to Go program of NHH, made a presentation about NHH and its many programs. 
 
NHH offers a variety of programs across New Hampshire to connect people with ideas.  In 2015 NHH offered 512 free programs, to 79,000 participants, with 320 local partners in 162 New Hampshire cities and towns.  The work of the NHH falls into three different programs:
 
Humanities to Go is a program of NHH which features over 200 different programs by many different presenters on various ideas and subjects of relevance to New Hampshire and our broader world.
Connections is a book discussion program for adult new readers which opens doors to the world of books and ideas. 
 
Community Grants Program of NHH supports local cultural and educational institutions by awarding grants for innovative humanities programs.
 
More information can be found at http://www.nhhumanities.org/
 
Steve Taylor gave a brief and humorous description of his activities as a presenter of several programs as part of Humanities to Go.
 
Spoke writers: please send typed Spoke to Ron Carr rcarr38@comcast.net
Spoke 3/10/2016 Forrest Cole 2016-03-14 04:00:00Z 0

Assignments 3/10/2016 - 3/17/2016

Posted by Ron Carr on Mar 14, 2016
 
Thursday, March 17, 2016
Lorraine Morrison        Rotary Minute
Rich Wallace                 Spoke
Ron Carr                      Greeter
Steve Christy             Song Leader
Suellen Griffin             Invocation
 
Thursday, March 24, 2016
John P. Yacavone      Invocation
Ron Carr    Song        Leader
Steve Whitman          Greeter
Suellen Griffin             Spoke
Westin Greene            Rotary Minute
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assignments 3/10/2016 - 3/17/2016 Ron Carr 2016-03-14 04:00:00Z 0

March 10 Speaker(s)

Debbie Watrous and Steve Taylor
Debbie is Executive Director New Hampshire Humanities
 
Each year, tens of thousands of New Hampshire residents gather to experience the power of the humanities -- to learn something new, think critically, and converse thoughtfully with their neighbors. Debbie Watrous, Executive Director of New Hampshire Humanities, will show you why the humanities and this organization matter to our state.  
 
Steve Taylor will offer a few words about what it’s like to be a “Road Scholar” for Humanities to Go.
 
March 10 Speaker(s) Stephen Christy 2016-03-08 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 3/3/2016

Posted by Valerie Armstrong on Mar 08, 2016
Thursday, March 3, 2016
Jamie Whyte                  Greeter
Bruce: Song Leader – Bruce – Polly Wolly Doodle
Steve Usle                      Invocation
John Yacavone:             Rotary Minute – Topic: Club assessment best practice. Rotary began as a social endeavor and was converted to a service organization, where it then took off after a little TLC...  A comprehensive membership program was developed and success ensued. 
Valerie Armstrong        Spoke
Bill – Secretary report: No visiting Rotarians, no visitors.
 
Announcements:
Paul’s fundraiser generated $1433 at the event and close to $3,000 with club match for Cathy’s trip… Paul stated that the food was delicious and that Rotarians can cook!
Sue Ellen will be running next meeting.
 
Brags:
Bruce:  will be going AWOL, acting as facilitator for a PETS event next week then he is off to Tanzania
Jane: Her father, which is a long time Rotarian member, says “Hi… to anyone who cares!”, With a big chuckle, we all say “hi” back… Over the last 4 weeks, her parents have been ill. Mom had a minor stroke, but both are now doing well! Amen.
Ernst: Shared with us how his uncle came to the US, attended Berkeley, and was a good musician. He switched to baroque – played the harpsichord, was a sailor, wrote a book, and Ernst claims he was the driving force behind Ernsts’ relocation to the US! Thank you to Ernst’s uncle!
Steve: Highest 2 bowling games of the year… 216! Woot Woot!
Paul Boucher: March 18-20: Home Life Expo. Needs volunteers to sell tickets, Call Paul. 2 hour shifts.
Paul also announced that on March 10th, there will be a Business After Hours event with Norris Cotton Cancer Center, 5:30-7pm, please come. Enjoy a tour of the research center.
 
Speaker:
Betsey Child visited and announced our speaker of the day… She began by referencing a recent story in the Lebanon times spotlighting: “Great Strides”, which is an organization raising awareness for those with Cystic Fibrosis… Robert LaPlante is Lebanon’s own, LOVES ROTARY, and is in his 28th year assisting in the organization of the walk. He has single handedly walked over 7,500 miles locally to raise more than $300k for research! 
Sharon Littlefield, our CF educator, is a secretary in the Pediatric Pulmonary Division at CHAD, and has been involved for 10 years. She shares with us that there is presently 100 kids and 100 adults locally with Cystic Fibrosis. There are 37k people with it in the US. With research, the life expectancy has been raised from 3-6 months of age (in 1982) to almost 40 (present day). DHMC has the highest lung function of all CF facilities in the US. Sharon shared with me that they are always in need of volunteers.
You can sponsor or join walk/run, with or without a team… last year $13k was raised. 90% of all proceeds go to research. Our local walk is scheduled for May 21 at Storrs pond.
 
Spoke 3/3/2016 Valerie Armstrong 2016-03-08 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 2/26/2016

Posted by John Yacavone
 
Meeting called to order by President Don.
 
Opening Song ROTARY-Ernst out of town, no piano
 
Patriotic Song Skipped
 
Invocation by Jon Blodgett
 
No songs today, business schedule
 
Visiting Rotarians; Sue Donnelly, Sherri  C, Melissa M, Lucille C, Dick D.
 
One Guest of Bartolo, Amy Tremblay, Comcast
 
Bruce P was the lucky one to draw for the Queen. NO MONEY TODAY
 
Brags, Garlan H doing well
 
Steve Whitman (Really an announcement) and  spouse heading for many days to Australia a Rotary sponsored trip.
 
Rotary Minute Bruce P is excited and scared at the same time as he heads for Tanzania, Rotary sponsored trip. Good Luck BP
 
THE PROGRAM TODAY WERE 5 STUDENTS FROM VARIOUS HIGH SCHOOL PARTICIPATING THE ROATY SPEECH CONTEST.
 
Sue Shaw introduce all the students- Each student is given 5 minutes to present their speech.Below are names of the students, their High School and Their Theme
 
Dillon Bradley, Hanover Club,Hanover HS, "Environment and bottle stations"
 
Gregory Grant Lebanon Riverside Club, Lebanon HS “Remember your roots”
 
Emaline Conkey Lebanon Club Lebanon HS  “Be aware of of you environment”
 
Mariam Beb Slama Randolph Club, Randolph HS “Be helpful toward your fellow people of the world”
 
Cecile Smith, Randolph Club, Randolph HS “Traveling around the world gives one a different perspective”
 
The first place winner was Cecile Smith Second place went to Mariam Ben Slama
 
All five speeches were wonderful and delivered in a professional manner with enthusiasm.
Spoke 2/26/2016 John Yacavone 2016-02-28 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 2/18/2016

Posted by Rick Dyment
 
Called to order by: President Don
 
Opening Song: ROTARY
 
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful
 
Invocation: Westin Greene
 
Song Leader: Westin Greene            Song: Itsy Bitsy Spider (English Version)
Song Leader: Jennifer Grant             Song: Itsy Bitsy Spider (Sweedish Version)
 
 
Visiting Rotarians:
 
Guests:
Jan, David, and Bonnie Robinson
Evan Leary
Vicki Howell
 
 
Raffle: Suellen failed to get the Queen..
 
 
Announcements:
Paul Tierney: Upcoming Feb. 27 Dinner to support Kathy Schneider in her trip to Guatemala.
Jan Robinson: Discussed a check in honor of David Robinson.
Dan Nash: Made two beautiful rocking chairs for Westin Green’s boys.
Bruce Pacht: Discussed the Rotary Institute Rotary Central, and the Rotary Peace Center.
Forrest Cole: Discussed the Mollica Fund.
Don MacMeekin: Discussed the Skiing fund raiser.
Bruce Pacht: Discuss the Sienna Craig (she presented at Rotary) symposium onNepal.
Jan Robinson was given the Paul Harris Fellow in honor of David Robinson
Next week is the Rotary Speech Contest.
 
Brags:
Rick Dyment: The City Council approved the Airport Master Plan.
Dan Affledt: Is safely back in NH
Don MacMeekin: Will take on the Asst. Governor position.
Joann Lemieux: Walked solo on the beach in South Carolina
Bruce Pacht: Bruce and his Chordsmen performed many singing Valentines.
Rotary Minute: Bruce Pacht: Discussed the Rotary Institute Rotary Central, and the Rotary Peace Center.
 
 
 
Speaker: Committee Reports
 
Donations: Jen Grant discussed supporting the Children’s Corner Scholarship Request.
Social: Jean discussed the June 24 Changeover and a picnic with the Riverside Club around May 14.
 
Membership: Rich discussed a mockup of a newsletter, requested Committees to provide information for the newsletter, discussed a new Facebook page design; and there will be a Fireside Chat for two new members next week.
 
Service: Steve discussed the focus on RILA and Speech Contests.
 
 
President Don closed the meeting.
Spoke 2/18/2016 Rick Dyment 2016-02-28 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 2/11/2016

Posted by Jon Blodgett
 
 
Called to order by: President Don
Opening Song: Rotary
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful (again)
Invocation: Valerie Armstrong
Song Leader: Rich Wallace Song: Buffalo Gal
 
Visiting Rotarians:
None
 
                   Guests: Nate Malmquist guest of Jon
 
Raffle: Paul Tierney won.
 
Announcements:
Cathy S gave a few details on her impending trip to Guatemala to help the indigenous population with medical care.
Paul T sent a signup sheet around for the Pot Luck supper on the 27th at the Listen Center in WRJ.
Bartolo is hosting the Chamber event Thursday evening at his office.
Paul B gave a check to celebrate his 71st birthday to the Rotary foundation. Bruce Pacht & Valarie Armstrong also are celebrating milestone birthdays
Lorraine M's granddaughter just turned 21 and Lorraine said she just turned 39????
 
Brags:
 
Rotary Minute: None that I know of
 
Speaker: Richard Neugass explained Osher at Dartmouth. It is a lifelong learning program. Several of our members have taken the courses that are scheduled on weekdays and they are now offering a few courses in the evening for folks still working. You can watch some of the courses on CATV Memberships are available at moderate prices and allow you to signup for many courses. Check it out online at http://osher.dartmouth.edu/
Spoke 2/11/2016 Jon Blodgett 2016-02-17 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 2/4/2016

Posted by Ron Carr
 
 
Called to order by: President Don
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: O Beautiful for Spacious Skies
 
Invocation: Steve Christy
 
Song Leader: Suellen Griffin            Song: Mockingbird Song
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Joanne Lemieux
 
Guests:
John & Kim Wilson with Steve Christy
Don Collins with Phil Rentz
Evan ? with Marian Steiner
 
Raffle: Joanne picked a card which was not the queen: 15 to go
 
Announcements:
Salt hill and Board meetings next week
Steve Christy announced future speakers (See speaker list)
Kevin listed the chairs for committees 2016-2017
Auction - Marion Steiner
Mollica Fund - Forrest Cole
Community Service - Ernst Oidtmann
Vocation -  Linda Copp
International - Jane Mason
Foundation - Nate Miller
Membership - Paul Boucher
Innovation - Suellen Griffin
New Generations - Steve Whitman
Grants and Financial Operations - Don Mac Meekin 
Past President       Don Mac Meekin 
Social - Bartolo Governanti
Sargent at Arms - Rick Dyment  
 
Vote taken on by-law changed: passed unanimously (see below)
Vote taken on board members for next year: passed unanimously
Business After Hours on Feb 11 hosted by Bartolo at State Farm office: sponsored by Lebanon and Hanover Rotary clubs
Feb 25 second round of Speech Contest held at Dwinell Room: Hanover representatives will join us
 
Brags:
John Y joke: Nuns run out of gas
John Y: Feels Bartolo should be fined for excessive photo exposure: found his picture on receipt from Price Chopper!!!
Bill K: Big vacation plans – cross-Canada on Via rail, visits to Seattle & Tacoma, later visiting India with friends, one of whom has been to India and Nepal often: Sanskrit scholar!
Paul Tierney: (missed the whole thing…)
 
Rotary Minute: Bill Babineau
Bill related conversations with a friend who went to Nepal the day before the earthquake. She pointed out that there had been 466 aftershocks since the April 15 event, at least one at 6.5. She also pointed out that nine months later, little has been done in the mountainous regions of Nepal. The urban regions have recovered fairly well, but there is a political limbo preventing doing much of anything about the mountainous regions. In addition, there has been a serious typhoon which caused further destruction, and a blockade has been set up at the India – Nepal border which is preventing supplies from reaching these areas.
 
Speaker: John Wilson
John Wilson is an MIT/Stanford trained specialist in aerospace guidance and control. His bio was featured in last week’s spoke.
In some circumstances, there are three basic survival questions:
1 where are we?
2 where’s the good stuff?
3 where’s the bad stuff?
John pointed out the need for knowing number one relating the story of the British fleet sailing home in 1707. In storm conditions, with little visibility, the British fleet sailed into a hazardous area: four ships were lost and approximately 1400 lives. As a result of this tragedy, the British government reacted quickly, as governments do, seven years later, please with the longitude act. While navigators had been able to determine latitude for centuries, longitude remained a mystery. Promised a large sum of money to anyone who can solve this problem. It was obvious that the central problems to determining longitude was knowing the exact time: if the exact time is known, the path of stars in the sky can be used to determine longitude. John Harrison developed a pocket chronometer which achieved the necessary accuracy.
In the 1900s, radio navigation techniques were developed first LF than VHF. Area navigation was aided by devices referred to as Decca, Gee, and Loran. In the late 1900s, satellites were launched by the Department of Defense.
Interestingly enough, this development was initiated by examination of the Sputnik satellite launched by Russia. While watching and listening to the Sputnik satellite, researchers heard specific Doppler effects as the satellite passed. They realized that the Doppler effects could be used to measure the location of the satellite. Once this was understood, further development of the concept was incorporated in the satellites launched by DOD. DOD This capability secret for many years, but when it’s capabilities were discovered, in 1983 Pres. Reagan declassified the system making it available for general usage. At that time the readings were accurate to within 100 yards.
Accuracy of GPS now is 3.4 m, with specialty equipment having accuracy up to 1 inch.
Our GPS units in use by most of us receive signals from satellites, but do not send information. Rather than satellite sends and receives information to and from specific GPS stations scattered around the world. Using information gathered from these stations, satellites can transmit accurate location information to numerous GPS receivers, such as cell phone towers, and it is from these receivers that our GPS devices get their information.
It takes information from three satellites to properly determine your position, but what access to 4 will give the best accuracy. With 4 signals, latitude, longitude, altitude, and time can be determined and this is what yields very accurate location.
Note that your GPS unit is also the speedometer you will overlap due to its accuracy.
GPS has its faults: they are jamable by inexpensive equipment. They can also be spoofed, and there are areas where they are inaccurate or simply not available. We are indeed too dependent on GPS: the old lamp system was going to be discontinued, but it is realized that this is a potential backup your GPS fails, so it still exists.
 
By-Law change
Article XVII Amendments
 
These bylaws may be amended at any regular meeting, a quorum being present, by a two-thirds vote of all members present , provided that notice of such proposed amendment shall have been mailed to each member at least ten days before such meeting. No amendment or addition to these by-laws can be made which is not in harmony with the constitution and bylaws of RI.                                             ·
 
Article XVIII Paul Harris Fellows
 
Section 1  President, President-elect, Vice-President, Treasurer and Secretary of the Club will be credited annually with one
hundred dollars toward becoming a Paul Harris Fellow. The Club will budget and set aside in a separate account five hundred dollars ($500 .00) each year for this purpose.
 
Section 2 -Whenever any member of the Club contributes nine hundred dollars ($900.00) toward becoming a Paul Harris Fellow, the Club will provide the final one hundred dollars ($100.00).
 
 
 
               Suggested revision:
 
Section 1  President, President-elect, Vice-President, Treasurer and Secretary of the Club will be awarded 100 points annually toward
their Paul Harris Fellow (PHF).  In the event there are no points available, the Club will donate $500 to the Rotary Foundation to generate 500 points which will then be distributed to the officers  PHF account.  The Club will budget  five hundred dollars ($500 .00) or 500 points each year for this purpose. At  the  end  of  each  fiscal  year  the  Foundation  Committee  Chair  will  allocate  the  100  points  to each officer completing  their  term  of  service.   Effective  date   2/4/16.
 
 
Spoke 2/4/2016 Ron Carr 2016-02-06 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 1/28/2016

Posted by Jean Flaherty-Wulpern
 

Called to order by: President Don
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: My Country Tis Of Thee
 
Invocation: Ron Carr
 
Song Leader: Steve Usle       Song: Home On The Range
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Sue Shaw
Richard Wierwell
 
Guests:
Clarke Griffith
Denis Luttrell
Nate Malmquist
 
Raffle: No winner
 
Announcements:
President Don: Voting will be held next week on the slate of officers and By-Law change.
John Wilson will be the speaker next week, the topic will be GPS-development and current day use.
Thanks to all on the Social and Membership Committees for organizing and holding a successful Business After Hours with the support of the Lebanon Chamber.  Seems that a few participants are interested in attending a meeting.
 
 
Brags:
Bruce: Singing Valentines flyers are on each table, treat your favorite Valentine to a song or two sung by members of the North Country Chordsman.
            February 12th the same group will be singing at the Lebanon Sr. Center as a Valentine treat.  All are welcome the cost is $3.50 for those 60 and older, $8.75 for all under 60.  Bruce needs a head count by next week.
            The Board voted in January to support this luncheon by donating 20 $10 gift cards from the Village Market to be raffled off the day of the luncheon. 
 
Steve U.: Bragged for Nat and the great article that was in the Valley News about the local road conditions and status of the upkeep and support.
 
Willie: Bragged for Bruce who was recently voted the Chordsman of the Year and his great introduction into Rotary that he presented at The Business After Hours.  He also bragged that his Dad 87, Brother 62 and Wife Ellen where all celebrating birthdays.
 
Paul T.:  His wife Carol and son Adam are also celebrating birthdays.
 
Rick D.:  Tree clearing has started at the airport and the Valley News wrote a not so negative article about it.  Local TV channel 5 also covered the story.
 
Kevin: started his Pre President training.
 
 
Rotary Minute: Jon shared information from an article written about the bombing in Pakistan and Polio.  The focus was that the fight is still going strong and they have 80% few case of Polio in 2014
 
 
Speaker: Sienna Craig
“Natural Disasters and Their Unnatural Consequence.  Why Nepal Matters”
Sienna a member of the Department of Anthropology at Dartmouth has spent much time living in Nepal and studying the region.  She gave a brief overview of the country, history, geography, the Civil War that ended in 2001 and the current day Federal Secular Democracy they have now, the economic status etc.
She then focused on the April 25th earthquake followed by a 2nd quake on May 12th and the seismic events that took place through July.
Many volunteers from near and far have come to support the people of Nepal and to rebuild the newly reshaped landscape, and cities that now sit in new locations.
Unfortunately, many have the experience of doing this after the quack in 1984.
Dartmouth is holding programs about how to best support these efforts.  The first is Feb. 18th, Sienna will send the link to all the program information he will share it with the club.
 
Submitted by: Jean Flaherty-Wulpern
 
Spoke 1/28/2016 Jean Flaherty-Wulpern 2016-02-05 05:00:00Z 0

Speaker this week

John Wilson
What is GPS?
 
John Wilson is an MIT / Stanford-trained specialist in Aerospace Guidance and Control
with over 20 years of high-tech aviation-related research and development experience.
His technical and management activities span the entire technology development process
from initial concept synthesis, hardware selection and algorithm development, through
prototype testing and refinement, to FAA certification and commercial introduction.
He is an active pilot and holds an Airline Transport Pilot certificate. He has substantial
industrial flight test experience, both in the roles of Experimental Test Pilot and of Flight
Test Engineer. He continues to innovate, develop, and fly his latest creations from
Lebanon Municipal Airport, while working as an R&D engineer for Garmin International
out of his home office here in the Upper Valley.
Speaker this week Ron Carr 2016-02-03 05:00:00Z 0

Club Assignments_02-02-2017 to 0209-2017

Posted by Rick Dyment
 
 
 
 

Thursday, February 2, 2017

Forrest Cole             Song Leader

Jean Flaherty-Wulpern    Greeter

Steve Usle               Rotary Minute

Suellen Griffin          Good Works

Valerie Armstrong        Invocation

Westin Greene            Spoke

 

Thursday, February 09, 2017

Don MacMeekin             Invocation

Forrest Cole              Rotary Minute

Jean Flaherty-Wulpern      Song Leader

Paul Tierney              Greeter

Steve Christy             Spoke

Westin Greene             Good Works

 
 
Club Assignments_02-02-2017 to 0209-2017 Rick Dyment 2016-02-02 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 1/21/2016

 
Called to order by: President Don         
 
Opening Song: R-0-T-A-R-Y
Patriotic Song: My Country Tis of Thee            
 
Invocation: Jane        
 
Song Leader: Jon       Song: There’s a Tavern in the Town  
 
Visiting Rotarians:
None     
 
 
Guests:
Chris Collins, guest of Dan Nash;   Emmaline Thompson, speech contestant from Mascoma High School     
 
Raffle: Bruce got to draw but not the Queen
 
Announcements:
President Don reminded members of the Business After Hours to be held tonight from 5:30 to 7:00 in the Dwinell Room with members of the Lebanon Chamber of Commerce.
The second round of the speech contest will be held in the Dwinell Room on Feb.25th with contestants from 4 clubs participating.
 
Brags:
Immediate Past President Garlan….(IPP Garlan!) noted that several members have been prominently featured in the Valley News lately and immediately fined Steve Christy $100 to be given to the Mollica Fund.  Steve was so shocked he fainted and fell flat on the floor.  (I guess Bankers just want to keep the dough in their vaults?)  After being revived by mouth to mouth resuscitation, he got up and got even with IPP and fined him $100 as well.  Not to be outdone, IPP then proceeded to fine Suellen $25 and Paul Boucher $50 because the latter is in the paper all the time.   End result was $275 given to the Mollica Fund for make grants.
It should be noted that anyone can make a contribution to the Mollica Fund recognizing birthdays or wedding anniversaries, etc., but you should designate if you want it to go to the “corpus” (for investment to increase the fund) or to ”expense” which makes it available right a way for grant making.   Just note it on the “for” section of your check.
Bruce bragged for the second week in a row that the Barbershop singing group made him the Barber of the Year.  This quickly brought a fine  from Steve C for bragging about the same thing two weeks in a row.  Bruce also bragged that he had been selected as the Rotarian to accompany the Geisel School of Medicine team going to Tanzania to do an evaluation study of medical needs assessment.  (Congratulations Bruce, but don’t forget you Malaria shots!)
 
Jane told of someone seeing Rotary Shelter Boxes…but I couldn’t hear the details.  Sorry.Jennifer announced an open house event for Windsor Sponsors to be held on Jan 29 from 5-7 in Windsor.  
 
Rotary Minute: Linda pointed out an article in the current Rotarian magazine stating that on Tuesday Feb 23rd, it will be the 111th anniversary of Rotary International.  The social committee then announced that there would be a celebration of the event on that evening at Salt Hill for dinner beginning at 5:30 p.m.   All Rotarians should attend and tell why you joined Rotary.
 
Speaker: Emmaline Thompson was the only speech contestant and spoke on the theme: “Be a gift to the world in your everyday interactions.”  The rest of the meeting was for a club forum.
 
Several reports from committees were given: Dan N mentioned the possibility of building a bus shelter for Valley Transit. Jamie announced the strong possibility of starting an Interact Club at Mascoma Hi School where the staff were in strong favor of it.  Jennifer mentioned the G&FO committee is setting aside $5000 for grant making this year.  $1700 has been given to the Northfield Rotaract Club to buy windows for the school in Tanzania.  The focus will continue to be on Clean Water, Sanitation and Literacy. 
Kevin announced that the recipient of this year’s auction would be Helping Hands in Canaan which is a food depot.  He also announced that Marion has agreed to be this year’s chair of the auction….having come from a family of auctioneers! 
Spoke 1/21/2016 Garlan Hoskin 2016-01-27 05:00:00Z 0
Chamber After Hours pictures in Photo Albums Jennifer Grant 2016-01-27 05:00:00Z 0

Chamber After Hours!

Posted by Ron Carr on Jan 20, 2016
5:30 Thursday 1/21 Dwinell Room
 
Be There or Be Square   wink
 
Great opportunity to meet Lebanon businesspersons and promote Rotary!
Please attend!!!
Chamber After Hours! Ron Carr 2016-01-20 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 01/14/2016

Posted by Bartolo Governanti
 
Called to order by: Don MacMeekin
 
Opening Song: Rotary
 
Patriotic Song: O Beautiful for Spacious Skies
 
Invocation: Rich Wallace
 
Song Leader: Bruce Pacht                 Song: Don’t Fence Me In, (Cole Porter)
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Sue Shaw, Assistant District Gov.
Father John, potential new member to club
 
Guests:
Ellen Gitomer, spouse of William Kopenheffer
Simon Pacht, grandson of Bruce Pacht
 
Raffle: Trivia winner Ernst Oidtmann,  Bartolo Governanti won draw, unsuccessful, no queen
 
Announcements:
William Koppenhoffer: Rotary anniversaries, Dan Affeldt, 14 years, Rick Dyment, 5 years.
Kevin Gould: Paul Harris Fellowship, Linda Copp, Steve Whitman
Garlan Hoskin: Business After Hours with the Lebanon Chamber 1/21/16 @ 5:30, please bring guests, electronic invite sent out.
Suellen Griffin: Innovation Committee, amendment to bylaws presented, discussion, will resubmit in two weeks.
 
Brags:
Bruce Pacht: Awarded Barber Shopper of the Year by the North Country Chordsmen.
Paul Tierney: 1/27/16 Dinner, details to be emailed in regards to food assignments.
Phil Rentz: 1/12/16 speech contestant will present.
     
Speaker: Megan Gallager, Planned Parenthood of Northern New England.
Covered History of Organization, Services Offered, Advocacy efforts, Education and Statistics
Spoke 01/14/2016 Bartolo Governanti 2016-01-20 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 1/7/2016

Posted by Bartolo Governanti
 
Called to order by: Don MacMeekin
 
Opening Song: My Rotary
 
Patriotic Song: My Country Tis of Thee
 
Invocation: Westin Green
 
Song Leader: Valerie Armstrong      Song: Tip Toe Thru the Tulips
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Reverend John Nwagbaraocha, Chaplin at DHMC, current resident of Lebanon but formerly from Essex Junction, VT, looking for a new club to join: was warmly welcomed by our membership.
 
Guests:
None.
Raffle: Crater Lake was answer to trivia question; Forest Cole drew ticket winner Philip Rentz who did not draw winning card.
 
Announcements:
Steve Whitman: was awarded a blue pin by President MacMeeken as recognition for sponsoring his second new club member of the year Nathan Miller.
 
Make up dinner at Salt Hill Pub, 1/11/16 @ 5:30pm.
 
Next Rotary Leadership Institute opportunity is in March @ Vermont Academy.
 
Garlan Hoskin: We are hosting Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours 1/21/16 @ 5:30, please invite potential Rotarians.
 
Steve Christie: announced some upcoming speakers, 1/14/16 Planned Parenthood, 1/21/16 club forum and speech contestant.
 
Brags:
Steve Christie: announced his retirement from Mascoma Bank effective 1/1/2017.
 
Don MacMeeken: Photos are online of the windows purchased with clubs $1700 donation to facility in Tanzania.
 
Rotary Minute: Ron Carr: distributed information sheets about Rotary subscription resources and ease of online management of these resources.
 
Speaker: Paul Tierney: Business Adventures, Lessons Learned and Mental Weaknesses.
 
Paul shared several examples of his many business adventures, he recognized his own hubris and lack of mental flexibility and pointed out three major lessons.
  1. Always know where the paperwork is!
  2. Be careful of who you trust, particularly when money is involved!
  3. You can’t trust bureaucracy and regulators!
 
Submitted by: Bartolo Governanti
Spoke 1/7/2016 Bartolo Governanti 2016-01-09 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 12/31/2015

Posted by Linda Copp
 
Called to order by: Don
 
Opening Song: Rotary, My Rotary
 
Patriotic Song: Oh Beautiful for Spacious Skies
 
Invocation: A moment of silence in memory of David Robinson
 
Song Leader: Bartolo            Song: Take me out  to the Ballgame
 
Visiting Rotarians: 0
 
Guests: 0
 
Raffle: 0
 
Announcements:
Ernst delivered $36 gift certificates to Headrest and Sacred Heart Church Christmas dinner set-up assistance was well done. Thank you to the many helping hands.
Don announced the David Robinson requested donations in his name be given to Rotary
 
Brags:
Don – thankful for his family around for the holidays.
 
Rotary Minute: N/A
 
Calling the missing members – this lead to discussion:
            Clubs across US and Canada have attendance falling off
            Service Projects/lunch
            Combining with Riverside – looking at altering the meeting times
Prepaying for meals – we are paying for more than the number attending. Need to check the math and cost increase of the kitchen
            Difficulties of attending during holidays
About identifying who is missing
Data needed from Willie
a list of 5 or 6 questions for the callers – Bruce and Ron volunteered to call
The importance of the social elements and how people are using social media.
 
On the whole a very lively meeting with numerous ideas and two good jokes!
Spoke 12/31/2015 Linda Copp 2016-01-05 05:00:00Z 0
Meeting Thursday 12/31/2015 2015-12-29 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 12/17/2015

Posted by Paul Boucher
 
Meeting Called to order by Vice President Kevin Gould
 
The opening song was Rotary my Rotary
 
The Patriotic Song was Oh Beautiful for Spacious Skies
 
The Song Leader was Forest Cole and the song was OH Gentlemen, Listen
 
Visiting Rotarian Rob Titus from the Hanover Club spoke on the Tanzananian  project that the Hanover Club is undertaking and looking support from our club.
 
There were no guests or Raffle.
 
Secretary Willy announced the rotary anniversaries for the month.  Nate & Bartolo one year,  Garlan 8 years (second time around) and Jean 11 years.
 
Announcements:  Ernst asked for help to set up for the Christmas Day Dinner.  Meet at Sacred Heart Church next Thursday at NOON. Many hands make light work
 
Ernst also reported that $293 was taken in at the Holiday Social for the residents at Headrest.  A collection taken today yielded another $65.00
 
A collection was taken for the kitchen help and there were pleased with the gift.
 
Dan Nash announced a Hand Bell Concert this Sunday the 20th at 2:00 PM at the Meriden Baptist Church.
 
Brags:  Bruce has just returned from a performance with his quartet singing holiday wishes to Jan Chapman, a former member of this club.
 
Kevin gave the Rotary Minute announcing that our club had received a District Citation for our participation in “Every Rotarian Every Year” program.  We one of five clubs in our district receiving the Award.  We also received a citation for Rotary International for our participation in the “End Polio Now” program.  We ranked in the top ten clubs in Rotary International to receive this award.
 
Program:  Suellen outlined the requirements needed so that we can get the Presidential Citation for 2016 from Rotary International.  The club did receive the award in 2015.  The club has until March 31st to complete the requirements.  Some of the challenges are membership increases to include at least one female. Another is working as mentors for a Rotarack club or starting one of our own.
Spoke 12/17/2015 Paul Boucher 2015-12-17 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 11/19/2015

Posted by Philip Rentz
 
Called to order by: Don MacMeekin, at 12:18
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: No song, due to Ernst’s absence.
 
Invocation: Linda Copp gave a Thanksgiving blessing.
 
Song Leader: Jane Mason, with the help of Bruce Pacht who started the song off for us.  Song: Turkey in the Straw.
 
Visiting Rotarians:
None
 
Guests:
None
 
Raffle: Garlan is apparently an expert on the Klondike Gold Rush and correctly answered Willy’s obscure question; however Jennifer Grant was unlucky and didn’t draw the winning card!
 
Announcements:
Thursday, December 3rd is the Nutcracker Ballet and dinner
Friday, December 11th is the Rotary Holiday Party: $25 per person, beer, wine, chicken or haddock. See you at the Dwinell Room on Dec. 11th (Note: no meeting on Dec. 10th because of the party)
Jen announced that The Sharon Academy is putting on ‘Spamalot’ 7-pm 11/20 and 11/21 at Chandler Auditorium in Randolph, VT
Jen also mentioned that Hartland Elementary School is holding a comedy improv night.
 
Brags:
Bruce attended the Rotary Leadership Institute in Chicopee, Mass and completed Level III.
Jamie: Trumbull Hall Troupe performed at Lebanon Opera House.
 
Rotary Minute: Paul Boucher talked about the Rotary Foundation.
 
Speaker: No speaker this week, we all worked in our committees and provided an update:
Community Service/Membership: The Lebanon Rotary Club will host the Lebanon Chamber of Commerce ‘Business After Hours’ (and possibly renaming it to ‘Business After-Night’) on January 21st
Foundation: Annual donations are due by December 3rd to enter in the drawing.  **Please remember to make your check out to “Rotary Foundation”**
Youth Service:  The first round of the Speech Contest is coming up in January, second round in February, and final round at the Conference in April. Philip Rentz will be contacting Mascoma and KUA for contestants.  We had no applicants for youth-exchange and the deadline is Dec. 1st.
 
If I missed something, please accept my apology – my pen ran out of ink!
Spoke 11/19/2015 Philip Rentz 2015-11-23 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 11/12/2015

Posted by Dan Affeldt
The Spoke
Newsletter of the Rotary Club of Lebanon, New Hampshire
 
 
Date: November 12, 2015
 
Called to order by: President Don – precisely on time
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: My Country tis of Thee
 
Invocation: Ron Carr
 
Song Leader: John Yacavone            Song: When the Caissons Go Rolling Along
 
Visiting Rotarians:
None
 
Guests:
What appeared to be the entire Flaherty-Wulpern Clan, Jean’s sister Ellen our speaker for the day), brother-in-law, her Mother, husband Bob, and daughter Kerry – who now has a date for her Thesis Defense this coming spring.
 
Raffle: Yours Truly won the chance to draw, and pulled the 4 of Spades to loud sighs of relief
 
Announcements:
Kevin Gould reminded us:     November is Rotary Foundation Month
 – we want to have another EREY Year $100 per member would be great !
President Don reminded us:   No meeting on Thanksgiving Day
Dec 3 is Dinner and Ballet Night - See Garlan for details
December 11th is our Club’s Annual Christmas Party
December 24th – no meeting
Brags:
Bruce Pacht bragged about the new fountain, and about Lorraine Morrison’s steadfast work to make the fountain a reality – there was also something about a cut finger that was not clear I my notes
 
 
Rotary Minute: Bruce Pacht talked about Rotary beyond the Club, more specifically about RLI, the Rotary Leadership Institute, that provides advanced training for those who want to know more about and do more with Rotary at the Club level and perhaps beyond. For more information you can access the Access R.L.I. website at http://www.rlinea.com   
 
Special award: Jean Flaherty-Wulpern was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship in recognition of her work on this year’s auction.  Through her efforts and those of so many members who were ‘on the team’ the Auction raised $14,000 for the Haven – our 2015 beneficiary, and $14,000 for our Club to invest in our community 
Go to next page
Speaker:         Ellen Flaherty, Ph.D., APRN, AGSF
Co-Director
Dartmouth Centers for Health and Aging
 
Ellen presented a wide array of information on the Northern New England GEC: Evidence-Based Falls Program
 
Falls are major health concern/factor in general, and especially during advanced years.  Falls represent major risk, and yet that risk can be notable reduced through some well-reasoned steps and actions.
 
Fully 1/3 of people 65 and older suffer from falls each year.  That number jumps to fully one-half of the population 80 and over.  And these falls can be quite serious, even life changing and even life threatening
 
The good news is that there are a many pathways to decreasing the risk of falls, and they are paths we all can take. 
 
Ellen presented so much information that we have requested a complete copy of her presentation that we will be posting on the Club Site as a readily available resource for us all.
 
In the meantime, until the presentation is in place you can contact
 
Aging Resource Center at DHMC
Evergreen Center
46 Centerra Parkway
Lebanon
603.653.3460
Web: dhaging.org
 
It is a wonderful resource! 
 
 
Submitted by: Dan Affeldt
Spoke 11/12/2015 Dan Affeldt 2015-11-18 05:00:00Z 0

Spoke 10/29/2015

Posted by Nathan Miller
 
Call to Order: President Don MacMeekin
Opening Song: ROTARY
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful
Invocation: Don MacMeekin
Song Leader: Bruce Pacht
Song: Casper the Friendly Ghost
Visiting Rotarians: Niki Glanz- Middlebury, Vermont
Guests: None
Raffle: Ron Michaud did not find the Queen of Hearts
Rotary Minute: Philip Rentz recapped the importance of this year’s Rotary Auction to the Upper Valley Haven, and Ron Carr highlighted Rotary International’s good work in the fight against polio.
Announcements:
  • Don MacMeekin asked that members please pay their dues invoices, and reminded members about the upcoming training session at DHMC on November 21st.
  • Garlan Hoskin announced that, on December 3rd, members are invited to dinner (at Three Tomatoes) and a night at the ballet. This year’s Christmas party is scheduled for December 11th
  • Paul Tierney asked for volunteers to help him in organizing a social party in February.
  • Kevin Gould noted that next month is Rotary Foundation month, and asked members to please consider a contribution to the Rotary Foundation. Kevin reported that Nate Miller has volunteered to take on a leadership role with the club’s Rotary Foundation efforts.
  • Carla Skinder announced that she will be leaving the Lebanon Rotary to travel around the world over the coming years.
  • Ron Michaud announced that his wife Hillary is slowly recovering from her broken hip.
Brags:
  • Bartolo Governanti bragged that he recorded his first ever hole-in-one during a recent round of golf in Hanover.
  • Valerie Armstrong bragged that State Farm Insurance (Bartolo’s agency) was a finalist for the Valley News Reader’s Choice Award for best insurance agency.
  • Bruce Pacht bragged that the recent purple pinky event raised more than $100 for the fight against polio.
Business Items:
Sheila Young of the Second Wind Foundation spoke about the Upper Valley’s struggles with addiction, specifically with heroin addiction. Sheila noted that 80,000 needles have been exchanged in the Upper Valley in the past 18 months. At $15 dollars per bag (i.e. dose), heroin is very profitable in the area. Sheila discussed a number of the programs that the Second Wind Foundation offers, including the Wits End program for parents, the Willow Grove housing for women in the early stages of recovery, and the Turning Point support network for those in recovery.
 
Spoke 10/29/2015 Nathan Miller 2015-11-02 05:00:00Z 0

Tichnor Trail Cleanup

Posted by Ernst Oidtmann, MD, PHF
On Oct 17, 10 of us descended on this Tichnor trail to start some clean up work. The trail is actually a class 6 road, but so neglected you couldn't see it if you fell over it. The beginning of the trail from Slayton Hill Rd was completely overgrown and about 200 yards in it was more or less washed out and turned into a gully.  We armoured the bank here and there and used large rocks to counteract the erosion and to use as stepping stones for the trail.  Further up some large trees had fallen across and they were sawn up and also used for erosion control as water bars. The whole project was supervised by Ron Bailey who is the city's trail expert. He volunteered his service. This was a fun project and I enjoyed organizing it.
 
See Photo albums for more shots!
Tichnor Trail Cleanup Ernst Oidtmann, MD, PHF 2015-11-01 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 10/22/2015

Posted by Don MacMeekin
 
 
Called to order by: President Don
 
Opening Song: Rotary
 
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful         
 
Invocation: Phil Rentz
 
Song Leader: Jamie Whyte was ready to lead but no song to sing.  We will save him for another day     
 
Visiting Rotarians:
None
 
Guests:
None
 
Raffle: Steve Usle go the number but not the Queen.  Another $10 spot for the pot.
 
Announcements:
  1.  World Polio Day at Salt Hill Pub in Hanover 4-6PM on Friday the 23rd. sponsored by the Hanover Rotary club.
  2. Wednesday October 28th Rotary International is hosting a Webinar or Estate Planning Tips and your Rotary Legacy.  Go to Rotary.Org to register for this seminar.
  3. Linda Copp asked for someone to join her at the Co-Op in Lebanon to man the table for Purple Pinky in honor of World Polio day on Saturday the 24th.
 
Brags and fines:
  1. Willie bragged for the crew that did a work project on Slayton Hill.  There were 11 persons in all who opened up the trail.  Thanks to Ernst encouragement and planning the trail is now passable and will be used for cross country skiing and snow shoeing this winter.
  2. We fined Paul Boucher for having his mug on the front page of the Valley News.
 
Rotary Minute: Suellen reminded us that November is Rotary Foundation Month.  The club would like to get 100% member contribution to the foundation.  Our goal is to get $100 for each member.  We will gladly accept larger and smaller contributions.  The members should hear more about this in the near future.
 
Speaker: Steve Christy
His most expensive breakfast was the title.  Steve shared how he flew to Main with some friends for breakfast.  After breakfast they flew to a small airport in Maine to look at a Cessna 195.  When they arrived they learned that the plane had been in a crash landing and spun around with the tail trying to beat the engine to safety.  The pilot’s side seemed to take the brunt of the crash.  The good news was that no one was seriously hurt during the landing.  Steve had been looking for a Cessna 195 and determined this was a good and solid airframe, so he bought it.  He then flew it to the Midwest where the plane was torn apart in the restoration effort.  They took it all the way down to the airframe and began the tedious process of reapplying the new exterior skin and repairing parts of the frame that were damaged.  The Cessna 195 was obsolete the day it was first produced but it sure is a sleek and beautiful plane.  The plane was obsolete because the year it was introduced by Cessna, Beachcraft (the across town rival) introduced its v tail plan.  The V tail sold about 1500 in the first year.  Cessna took about 10 years to sell 1500 195s. 
 
While they were rebuilding the airframe the Rotary motor was sent to Oklahoma for a total rebuild.  So Steves little plane has traveled much of the eastern and central United States in its quest for a new life and loving home.  The plane is now complete and resides in Lebanon at the regional airport.  Steve has made several trips to fly-ins in Wisconsin to share his restored beauty to the rest of the flying community.  A good story well told.
 
 
 
Spoke 10/22/2015 Don MacMeekin 2015-10-25 04:00:00Z 0

World Polio Day at Salt hill pub, Hanover!

In anticipation of World Polio Day this Saturday, Josh Tuohy, owner of Salt hill Pubs has agreed, in exchange for Hanover holding an “early evening social” at the Hanover pub, to donate a portion of the proceeds of that evening to our Polio Plus campaign.
 
Join the Hanover club on Friday October 23 4-6 PM to support this generous event.
 
See attached for more detail including opportunity for our Lebanon club.
 
World Polio Day at Salt hill pub, Hanover! Ron Carr 2015-10-20 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 10/15/2015

Posted by V. Bruce Pacht
 
 
MCTO circa 12:15 PM by Pres. Don.
We sang “R-O-T-A-R-Y.”  Ernst chose “America the Beautiful ” for our opening song.
 
Secretary’s report:
  • Visiting Rotarians: 
Joanne Lemieux, former Lebanon Rotarian, current Charlestown, NH Rotarian.Why the delay?
  • Guests:  None.
 
DRAW:  Everglades National Park was the answer:  Pa-Hay-Okee (“River of Grass”).  #845 was held by Ron Michaud who drew the king of diamonds – another loser.
 
SONG:  “I’ve Been Working on the Railroad”, played by Ernst and led expertly by Paul Boucher (“Stand up, Paul!).
 
ROTARY MINUTE by Jennifer Grant.
Article on mentors from an issue of The Rotarian.  Nearly 2/3 of affluent kids receive some form of mentoring in their lives; but, nearly 2/3 of lower income kids receive none.  Therefore, affluent kids are more savvy about how to climb the ladder to prosperity.  Disadvantaged kids know less about schools, scholarships, etc., etc.; they lack the networks “which surround their upper class counterparts.”  Rotarians offering RYLA and Interact programs, and also financial support to mentoring organizations, help.
 
President Don’s messages:
 
  1. Board voted to give the Haven $14,000 instead of the $10,000 approved by the Club.  Apparently, the Byrne Foundation donation ($10k) came with encouragement to increase the Haven’s share.  Auction net proceeds were $29,400 including the Byrne $10k. 
Does Ron Michaud think $14k is the right figure?Ron says he can live with it and makes the motion, JPY seconds.Unanimous approval.Don and Ron will get together and talk about future communications with Mrs. Byrne.
  1. A thank you note was received from Linda Oidtmann.  It was a lovely notecard sealed with wax!
  2. Today’s committee discussions will end at 1:20 with reports from each committee.
 
BRAGS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS:
 
  1. Ernst Oidtmann:  Cleaning up the “Something” Trail on Slayton Hill this Saturday (Sorry Ernst--head stuffed with a cold).  Ernst circulated a sign-up sheet with a map.  Meet at 9:00 AM with gloves, cables, saws, shovels and rakes and other implements of destruction.  Park in former staging area for Slayton Hill road repairs.  Ernst will have sweet cider for refreshments.
 
  1. Bruce announced an opportunity to volunteer on a “Purple Pinky Project” organized by Rotary of Lebanon-Riverside.  Four folks signed up; others are welcome to contact Bruce.
 
  1. Ron’s wife Hilary broke her pelvis after a fall while administering to her dog.  Ron says she will be recuperating at home, 15 School Street.
 
  1. Rick bragged about accurate coverage of the airport and two other things; sorry, Ron.
 
  1. Jennifer:  traveled to Wisconsin to see 21 of Rob’s relatives who were happy because the Packers beat the Rams.
 
COMMITTEE REPORTS
 
International – Steve Usle
The committee would like to undertake a project that was successfully developed by the West Virginia Rotary district in support of Ghana water and sanitation initiatives. It will ask each club within our district to accept a 5-gallon water jug and request that its members help fill the jug with pocket change in support of Rotary's international efforts in Ghana and elsewhere.  Each participating club will have the chance to win one of three available $1000 prizes, delivered at the District Conference.  The contest will include: most money contributed by a club; most per capita contribution; and best artistic design of the water jug (to be judged by an impartial committee at the District Conference).  The International committee sees this project as an opportunity to get Interact clubs and youth groups involved.   
 
Youth Service – Jamie Whyte 
We are rooted in Mascoma through Patrick Andrew, the superintendent, as well as through the principal and guidance counselor.  We will talk with Jamie the guidance counselor re: other programs.
 
Our club needs a strong contact within the Lebanon School District.  The committee spoke with membership chair Rich Wallace, who will speak with one possible individual.  We brainstormed another 6-7 names to be pursued.
 
Social – Garlan Hoskin
11 December – Lebanon club “Christmas, er, ah, Holiday” party.  $25 pp.
3 December – The annual Clara’s Dream performance, preceded by dinner at 3 Toms.  Reception on the stage afterwards for Rotarians and supporters to meet the dancers.
21 January – Business After Hours
Date TBD in February – dinner at LISTEN Center.  Presiding Club Curmudgeon Paul Tierney requested help working on the social aspects of this event.  He’s currently thinking “pot luck” with the club paying for beverages.
(Added by Garlan: The Curmudgeon’s party is a fund raiser for either Polio Plus or the Wheelchair project, probably the latter as we’ve reached our PP goal for the year.  The idea is to duplicate the dinner that Jean W and Kevin G did for so many years where we all contributed cash for the dinner.  I don’t agree it should be a pot luck and think that Paul should do the cooking, but he’s not apparently up to that cheapskate that he is in terms of this idea.)
Ice-out Party – A quick one after we have a winner.
Ducky Race – Ernst is in charge
 
Membership – Marion Steiner
How to get the name of Rotary out there?  Someone will talk to Ron Carr re: ClubRunner possibilities.  Rich is looking into doing something with our Facebook page.  Holding the Biz After Hours – Bartolo says:  Every member counted on to bring a guest!
 
Giving – Jennifer Grant
We plan to give away $30,500 this Rotary year.  (I’m not sure I caught everything Jennifer said).  Among the gifts:
  • 1,000 to The Rotary Foundation
  • $500 to support the Ethics prize
  • $14,000 to The Upper Valley Haven
 
Out philanthropic focus/theme remains “Providing Access – with a focus on children, good health, and the arts”.  We will continue to use Lebanon Rotary’s existing giving guidelines, combined with Rotary’s literacy, health and clean water areas of focus.
The committee discussed supporting a local Boy Scout’s project and will continue to do so.
 
Community – Linda Copp
Ethics –Linda will create a ballot with some existing names and with space for write-ins.
Trail project this Saturday headed up by Ernst
Xmas dinner at Sacred Heart – we set up tables and chairs on Christmas Eve
Food Drives for Haven and Listen
Xmas gifts to Headrest – certificates exchanged for gifts at stores on 12A
Kiosk repair on Rail Trail
Perhaps a COVER project coordinated through Dan Affeldt
 
The meeting ended with a rendition of the Four Way Test which, let’s say, would not have won any awards.
 
Spoke 10/15/2015 V. Bruce Pacht 2015-10-16 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 10/8/2015

Posted by Garlan Hoskin
 
Called to order by: President-Elect Kevin      
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: My Country Tis of Thee
 
Invocation: Garlan
 
Song Leader: Bruce    Song: The Fox went Out on a Chilly Night
 
Visiting Rotarians:
   
none
    
Guests:
     
none
     
 
Raffle: Won By Marion but the correct card was not drawn       
 
Announcements:
  • Oct 24 is world Polio Day; see Bruce if you want to participate in the “purple pinky” project on the 24th  from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at DHMC &APD
  • November 21st is the Pre-PETS training seminar at DHMC.  All are invited to attend to learn more about Rotary and your part in Rotary.
  • Ernst announced  a clean up of the trail off Slayton Hill on Oct  17th, beginning at 9 a,m.  Sign up with Ernst
  • November 6 is the Hanover Rotary Club’s annual auction to be held at Dowd’s Country Inn in Lyme
  • Ernst announced that $820 was raised for the auction by doctors and professionals
  • Kevin read a thank you letter from West Central thanking the club for our contribution of $1000 to Paddle Power.
  • Ernst announced the Crop Walk on October 18th; check with him to participate.
  • Willie fined both Ron M and John Y for having their pix in the paper.’
  • Salt Hill makeup/social hour on Monday Oct 12th at 5:30
  • Board of Directors meeting Tuesday, 5:30 Heater Road Room 1A, Oct 13th  
  •  
Brags:
     
see above
      
 
Rotary Minute: Bartolo confessed to have written a special focus on Rotary in preparation for his Minute today but left it on his desk!  Never mind, he did a wonderful essay on Not Cutting Corners.  As coach at Avon School for Boys in Connecticut he was greatly influenced by a colleague who taught him a life lesson in how to manage picking up a scrap of paper rather than passing it buy; or cutting across the grass rather than the cross walk.  Thanks Bartolo!
 
Speaker: Nicole DiDominico, Rotary Club of Northfield, VT spoke about the Upendo Mmooja  (it means “One Love”) project in Tanzania to which our club has contributed financial support last year.  She is one committed person to this  project since 2005, going to help construct a new building to house 17 orphans ages 6-12, to educate them with basic skills and to train then in this vocational training center.  She explained the interesting history of the facility when a men’s carpentry group and a women’s craft group got together with her assistance to plan such a project to help their young people prepare for life with skills necessary to survive.  Since then she has taken many Rotarians and Rotaract members to Tanzania to work on the project.  She sees this as a participation in the “New Generation” focus of RI—engaging youth in service, giving them tools, vision and hope to make this one rural community in East Africa a symbol of what can be done through Rotary.  (She didn’t say it quite like that, but close enough.)
       The project really began building the foundation of the building in 2013.  In 2014 a group of Rotarians and Rotaract  from Northfield went to view the project.  In the summer of 2015 three groups went to finish the building.  However, it still lacks windows and winter is approaching.  When asked what it would cost, it’s $1700.  I would suggest the Grants and Financial Operations Committee explore our club giving the $1700 from the excess funds raised from the auction rather than having it sit in our bank account.  ….or from funds raised last year. 
       It costs $360 a year to sponsor a child in this home, including food, clothing and fees.  Plymouth Congregational Church of Boston contributed $3000 to put a fresh water well at the school.  Toilets are next, exploring composting ones to replace the latrines.
      
       If you are interested in contacting her: ndidomen@yahoo.com
Spoke 10/8/2015 Garlan Hoskin 2015-10-10 04:00:00Z 0

Auction 2015

Be sure to check out the new photo album for the 2015 auction!
Huge thanks to Carla Skinder.
Auction 2015 Ron Carr 2015-09-30 04:00:00Z 0

GG 22307 Clean Water Project in Tamale is finished thanks to February 2014 Team to Ghana

Posted by William Babineau on Sep 03, 2015
 
Excerpted from Walter Hughes email on completion of this project:
 
We impacted 28,890 lives with this one project.  We have $750,000 worth of projects that were started since your visit to Ghana.  The summary of the project is:  
 
We exceeded most of our goals.  We completed twelve boreholes and one hand dug well. We repaired thirty-two boreholes instead of fifteen. We bought seventy-nine tablets instead of six desktop computers for four schools instead of just one school. We completed 116 microflush toilets instead of 131 toilets.  We funded more computer labs than our plan.  The project budget was $111,224.  
 
 This photo was possible because you cared enough to transform lives of children with a new borehole and wells.  THANK YOU!  Our new team leaves on Thursday for Ghana.  The original photos showing the work and the signage for your clubs can be viewed at this link:  https://www.dropbox.com/sh/koyjvm3g48oyakr/AADGhnW0v8OzkZRpK6qDcsmea?dl=0 .  You can download the Dropbox software at www.dropbox.com/download. The final report is attached as well as the photograph of the children at the well.
 
 
GG 22307 Clean Water Project in Tamale is finished thanks to February 2014 Team to Ghana William Babineau 2015-09-03 04:00:00Z 0
50 Years in Rotary...and Never Missed a Meeting! 2015-08-24 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 8/20/2015

Posted by Steven Usle
Called to order by: President Don
 
Opening Song: ROTARY
 
Patriotic Song: O'Beautiful for Spacious Skies
 
Invocation: Lorraine Morrison
 
Song Leader: Kevin Gould  / Song: Good Night Irene
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Ed Nichols, Dennis Tobin, Joann Lemieux
 
Guests:
Pat Tobin
 
Raffle: Bruce Pacht - Selected Right Color but Wrong Card
 
Announcements:
Steve Christy and Garlan Hoskin are 'buying a table' for the Auction.  Steve encouraged other members to consider doing the same.
President Don reminded members that next week's meeting on Thursday is cancelled, but not to forget that the President's BBQ is at his home on Friday evening.  Pot luck..so inquire through Don if you haven't already signed up to bring something.
 
Brags:
 
Forrest Cole mentioned an episode he recently had tending bees with his grandchildren (and noted on Facebook).  Also bragged about wedding anniversary (46 Years...Congratulations to Forrest and Jean!)
Bill Babineau mentioned his own past episode with bees, and his good fortune to get medical assistance.
Ernst Oidtmann spoke about his son's recent visit home from Qutar.
 
Rotary Minute: Rich Wallace spoke about the importance of the various Rotary partnerships that exist around the world.
 
Speaker:  Steve Usle and John Yacavone updated members on the Auction in support of the Upper Valley Havens Children's food Program.  Teams are in place, donor list and forms distributed, and information about the Auction event and dinner was handed out.  He reminded members that gift certificates or items typically auctioned off online should be in Jane Mason's hands no later than August 28.  He reminded members to register themselves for the Auction event and dinner by going to the website.   Questions can be directed to Captains Kevin, Paul T., Jane, Steve U., or Jon
 
Spoke 8/20/2015 Steven Usle 2015-08-22 04:00:00Z 0

DG Louisa Tripp Visits!

 
See new photo album for more pics!
And thanks, Phil Rentz, for taking pictures.
Entirely the editor's fault for being a week late!
DG Louisa Tripp Visits! 2015-08-19 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 8/13/2015

Posted by Paul Tierney
 
Meeting was held at Upper valley Haven the area homeless shelter
President don Opened the meeting
Rotary was sung
The Song was America the Beautiful
Steve Christie gave very nice invocation
 
Food was prepared by The Haven
The was no winner on the raffle
 
Sara Kobelinski spoke about the Haven and Poverty  and Hunger in the Upper Valley especially in the case of Children
 
Our club is partnering with the Haven to provide additional funding for their Backpack program which provides a weekends worth of food for a Family
It’s for a family not just the child
 
Poverty and especially hunger is a hidden problem
But  quite pervasive
 
Our unemployment rate is about 3.5% so poverty is a problem of the working poor and disabled here
 
Meeting adjourned at 1:30
Spoke 8/13/2015 Paul Tierney 2015-08-19 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 8/6/2015

Posted by Don MacMeekin on Aug 10, 2015
Called to order by: President Don
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: America The Beautiful
 
Invocation: Kevin Gould
 
Song Leader: Steve Christy              Song: Take me out to the Ball Game (not the Red Sox game)
 
Visiting Rotarians:
DG – Louisa Tripp
DGE - P
Past member from Florida –
 
 
Guests:
None
 
 
Raffle: No winner this week
 
Announcements:
*Presidents Picnic is August 29, Signup sheets going around to each table
*Seating will be as an auction team until after the auction to help each team meet its goal
 
Brags:
I did not make note of them as I was not expecting to file the Spoke this week.  Sorry
 
Rotary Minute: Lorraine Morrison
 
Speaker: DG Louisa Tripp
Shared some of her background growing up in the Midwest, living in a number of very different locations.  At an early age she knew she was interested in computers.
 
She now manages data bases for the State of Vermont and is keeping up with her duties at the District Governor of our District.
 
She challenged us to keep working on eradicating polio, confirming that Africa has not had a new case in over a year so we are down to two countries Afghanistan and Pakistan with new Polio cases being reported.
Spoke 8/6/2015 Don MacMeekin 2015-08-10 04:00:00Z 0
Auction 2015! Jean Flaherty-Wulpern 2015-08-07 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke July 30, 2015

Posted by Steve Whitman on Aug 04, 2015
Spoke for July 30th 2015
Johnny Y maintained true form with a thoughtful joke about politicians, this being the season for them to be out and about.
 
Then President Don opened the meeting with announcements about this week’s upcoming program with the District Governor Louisa Tripp and asked for signups for the Presidents Picnic at the MacMeekin home on Mascoma Lake between 5 and 11PM on August 29th.
 
Jean Flaherty-Wulpern and Steve Usle took over and talked about this year’s auction effort in support of the Upper Valley Haven Children's Food Program. This year, we will be helping to send children in the Haven's After School program home with supplemental food for the weekend.  It's known as the "Backpack Program".  Donation forms, additional information concerning marketing initiatives, etc. will soon be provided to all.  As mentioned, each Club member has been assigned to a Team.  Here's the listing:
 
Team 1 (Dan A., Mike, Suellen, Bill B., Jason, Garlan, Jon and Ernst)
Team 2 (Ron C., Marion, Jennifer, Steve C., Bartolo, Lorraine, Rick and Paul T.)
Team 3 (Kevin, David, Jean, Forrest, Nat, Dan N., John Y., and Rich)
Team 4 (Westin, Cathy, Paul B., Linda, Will K., Bruce, Steve U., and Jamie)
Team 5 (Jane, Phil, Valerie, Mary, Ron M., Carla, Steve W., and Don)
 
If you were successful in securing a donation from a particular company or individual during the past few years, you have been assigned that company or individual again this year. Each member has received an individual listing of these names. In addition, Teams have received additional names of companies and individuals who have given in the past, but were perhaps solicited by someone who is no longer an active member of the club
 
According to Steve and Jean each team needs to begin a process of communication.  Each team member brings a unique strength to the solicitation process.  There are folks who may be comfortable in committing to making calls, those who prefer site visits, pick up/delivery, computer?  And each team needs a "Captain"...that individual willing to step forward to lead and keep the team on task?
 
This year, we are starting a little later than usual, so much will need to be accomplished in the next few weeks.  With Rotary’s support of a great program and organization, and with commitment and focus, we can make this our most successful Auction yet!
 
Our speaker had a bit too much to get into his half hour time slot and besides was shooting difficult shots over our heads with the facts and figures of energy and the safety of nuclear power. However, I sure knew where he was coming from even if I couldn’t follow his scientific proofs. It was reassuring to see that the scientific process required provable facts from which reasonable judgements could be made.
Bob Hargraves delivered the message that the fear of nuclear energy is an irrational fear which is holding the US back from adopting cost effective, safe, electric energy solutions which are necessary for the US to continue to grow in the world economy. Without that growth we will have a much lower standard of living in a world that will be leaving us behind.
 
I think a summary of what Hargraves was showing us is:
 
Linear No-threshold Theory (LNT), which was formulated in the 1950’s at the time of the fear of a Russia vs US nuclear war, is wrong.
 
No-threshold means any radiation, however minute, is cancer causing and therefore bad, bad,bad!
 
However today we observe that:
 
1. DNA damage and repair occur naturally at 1000x the rate from background radiation.
2. Adaptive protections guard against future damage from many stresses, including cancer.
3. Environmental studies (eg Taiwan apartments) show fewer cancers from low dose radiation.
4. Occupational studies (eg shipyard) show lower death rates for workers exposed to low dose radiation.
5. Atom bomb Long-term Survivor Study (LSS) was not about low dose rate. They didn’t measure below 100 mSv.
6. Yet LSS data showed fewer cancers at 5-40 mSv doses.
7. Experiments with dogs and mice show that low dose radiation suppressed cancers.
Radiation is safe as sunshine.
• LNT and ALARA are regulation policies, not scientific facts. Replace them.
• An evidence-based radiation safety limit would be 100 mSv/y.
Rational regulation is all that is needed to let nuclear power thrive and solve our global environmental and economic crises
 
And if anyone wants to know more about the thorium/uranium molten salt reactor, please visit the Documents section of thorconpower.com. It is expected that this process would allow costs of producing electricity would be 40% less than today’s price for coal generating plants, our present cheapest way of producing steam for the turbines and would be 80% cheaper than the cost of renewables such as wind and sun.
 
Update: WSJ Monday 8/3/15: Front page Headline – New Power-Plant Regulations to Alter, Challenge Industry.
 
EPA administration proposes to rule that there needs to be a 32% cut in power-plant carbon emissions by 2030 from 2005 levels. The final rule would call for the nation to get 28% of its electricity from renewable resources by 2030 versus roughly 13% last year.
 
 
Sources of US Electricity Generation
     
1 Qtr 2005
 
1Qtr 2015
Change
% Change
         
496.4
Coal
368.5
-127.9
-25.8%
148.1
Natural Gas
291.2
143.1
96.6%
192.3
Nuclear
202.3
10.0
5.2%
68.8
Hydroelectric
71.7
2.9
4.2%
3.7
Wind
45.6
41.9
1132.4%
49.7
Other
40.6
-9.1
-18.3%
         
959.0
Total
1019.9
60.9
6.4%
 
(Millions of Megawatt Hrs.)
     
         
           
 
Spoke July 30, 2015 Steve Whitman 2015-08-04 04:00:00Z 0
New Photo Album! Carla Skinder 2015-07-21 04:00:00Z 0

Picture from Carla #2

Posted by Carla Skinder
Hello all,
I just happened to turn around to these noisy birds and got a few shots…there are no hummingbirds in Africa.
You see sunbirds all over and they are all colorful! The flowers of the fynbos are so incredible…Look up fynbos
and you will see what it is…scrub brush and lots of flowers!
Am looking forward to kayaking next week…even though it is winter here…we did have frost one night but usually
in the 50-60s with a kick ass wind at times…when the sun comes out it is warm.
Hope all is well with all of you,
Carla
 
Picture from Carla #2 Carla Skinder 2015-07-20 04:00:00Z 0
Speaker Guidelines Ron Michaud 2015-07-19 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 7/16/2015

Posted by Jamie Whyte on Jul 16, 2015
Called to order by: Pres Don
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
Patriotic Song: O Beautiful for Spacious Skies
Invocation: Bruce Pacht
Song Leader: Garlan Hoskin                         Song: Skip to my Lou
Visiting Rotarians:
N/A
Guests:
Jim Stewart
Raffle: Bill K drew a card which had no picture on it…
Announcements:
President’s Picnic August 29: please car pool, not much parking!
A form will be circulated to indicate attendance and what you can bring
Brags:
None. Incredible!
Rotary Minute: None
Speaker: Club Forum: committees met to discuss their responsibilities

 
Spoke 7/16/2015 Jamie Whyte 2015-07-16 04:00:00Z 0

Picture from Carla

I had an incredible day today and will send a whale pic tomorrow 
I was out from 0830 till 1800 taking pictures of lots of birds and 5 whales...etc
Having a cup of tea with a dessert
 
Picture from Carla Carla Skinder 2015-07-09 04:00:00Z 0

Special Spoke!

Special Edition: Changeover Spoke and Pie Sale pictures, courtesy Bill Secord.
Special Spoke! Ron Carr 2015-07-07 04:00:00Z 0

(delayed) Spoke 6/25/2015 Changeover

Posted by William Koppenheffer
 
The Spoke for changeover 6/25/15
 
Call to Order: by soon to be ex-President Garlan
 
Opening song: R-o-t-a-r-y
 
Patriotic song: My country Tis of Thee
 
Invocation: Steve Christy
 
Visiting Rotarians: Soon to be D.G. Louisa; Asst Gov. Sue Shaw; _____
         Ausmus (Hanover)
 
Guests:   Too many to note!
 
     Announcements: Kevin Gould presented Paul Harris Fellowships to Will Koppenheffer on behalf of his son Benjamin, to Bruce Pacht on behalf of his son _____ Pacht, and to Suellen.
 
     Garlan 39 years in Rotary; John Y 39 years; Steve C ? Years; Bruce Pacht 39 years
     s.t.b. D.G. Louisa 10/24/2015 is Polio Day, clubs should celebrate, and next Rotary year the District Conference will have curling and Family Day
     s.t.b. Asst Gov Sue Shaw spoke about her hopes and expectations
 
     Brags: s.t.b. ex-Pres Garlan reviewed the year’s activities, recognized the outgoing BOD, awarded Rotarian of the Year to Steve Whitman and John Yacavone, and introduced the incoming officers
 
     President Don reminded us of past year’s accomplishments and wants to have 2 additional fundraisers – ice out and duck race
 
     Ex-Pres Garlan introduced Evans Hale the new director of Opera North, who spoke and played a great piano
 
Pres Don led us in reciting the 4 way test
(delayed) Spoke 6/25/2015 Changeover William Koppenheffer 2015-07-07 04:00:00Z 0

Spoke 7/2/2015

Posted by Rich Wallace
 
 
Meeting called to order by President Don!
 
Opening Song R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Ernst led us with Oh Beautiful for our patriotic song
 
Garlan provided the invocation.
 
Song: Steve W. took us through “Yankee Doodle”
 
There were no visiting Rotarians and no guests at lunch.
 
Forrest gave Bill the correct answer to a National Parks question, so he got to draw the ticket. John Y. had the right ticket but did not get the right card!
 
Rotary Minute: Bruce highlighted 10 of Rick King’s 20 reasons to join Rotary. (All 20 listed below)
 
Announcements:
 
Jean gave us an update on the upcoming auction. Group is already meeting and auction will be September 19 at the Fireside Inn in West Lebanon. Looking to have a theme this year and involve local businesses. Online auction will end one week prior to live/silent auction evening. They are in need of committee chairs for the auction. Please contact Jean if you can help.
 
Ron C. thanked Carla for the photos of Changeover night and announced he has volunteered to chair the Ice-Out fundraising committee: looking for 2 volunteers to start planning.
 
Don announced that the Salt Hill makeup will be Monday July 13 and next board meeting will be Tuesday July 14 at the Heater Road offices. Also committee meetings will count as an attendance makeup. Please get list of who attends committee meetings to Bill K. as soon as possible after meeting.
 
Brags:
 
Bill B.’s daughter is currently the location coordinator for the new show “Zoo” which premiered last Tuesday. Watch the credits!
 
Carla will be gone for 6-7 weeks to South Africa. Also she is serving as the grand marshal in the 4th of July parade: the price of owning a convertible…
 
Garlan did not have to sit at head table but was able to squeeze in at the best table at the meeting, the one in the back!
 
Ron C. noticed his automated assignment system gave most of this week’s tasks to last year’s officers.
 
Paul T. celebrated 36th wedding anniversary.
 
Pau B. celebrated 45th wedding anniversary.
 
Steve W. celebrated 51st wedding anniversary.
Bill K. celebrated 30th wedding anniversary.
 
Today was Don’s birthday. We sang “Happy Birthday” to him.
 
Forrest’s pet cow Midnight had a calf, although he has not seen it yet.
 
Club Forum:
 
Dan announced he needed everyone to take a look at the 4th of July pie sale worksheet
 
Don gave a special thanks to those who have helped him transition in the office of the president.
 
We are down 6 members (Jim, Betsey, Nick, Martha, Kathryn, Dennis) have left. We are looking to add a net of 10 members during this Rotary year.
 
Don is looking for someone to head up the Duck Run Fundraiser in the spring.
 
Don is looking to do more service projects during the year. He is scheduling a business after hours with the Lebanon Chamber for January and the innovation committee is looking at ways to help with attendance for people who cannot always make the Thursday lunch.
 
Rich Wallace
 
20 Answers to the Question: Why Join Rotary?
1. Friendship: In an increasingly complex world, Rotary provides one of the most basic
human needs: the need for friendship and fellowship. It is one of two reasons why
Rotary began in 1905.
2. Business Development: The second original reason for Rotary's beginning is
business development. Everyone needs to network. Rotary consists of a cross section
of every business community. Its members come from all walks of life. Rotarians
help each other and collectively help others.
3. Personal Growth and Development: Membership in Rotary continues one’s growth
and education in human relations and personal development.
4. Leadership Development: Rotary is an organization of leaders and successful
people. Serving in Rotary positions is like a college education. Leadership: - learning
how to motivate, influence, and lead leaders.
5. Citizenship in the Community: Membership in a Rotary club makes one a better
community citizen. The average Rotary club consists of the most active citizens of
any community.
6. Continuing Education: Each week at Rotary there is a program designed to keep one
informed about what is going on in the community, nation, and world. Each meeting
provides an opportunity to listen to different speakers and a variety of timely topics.
7. Fun: Rotary is fun, a lot of fun. Each meeting is fun. The club projects are fun. Social
activities are fun. The service is fun.
8. Public Speaking Skills: Many individuals who joined Rotary were afraid to speak in
public. Rotary develops confidence and skill in public communication and the
opportunity to practice and perfect these skills.
9. Citizenship in the World: Every Rotarian wears a pin that says “Rotary
International.” There are few places on the globe that do not have a Rotary club.
Every Rotarian is welcome – even encouraged – to attend any of the 29,000 clubs in
194 nations and geographical regions. This means instant friends in both one’s own
community and in the world community.
10. Assistance when Traveling: Because there are Rotary clubs everywhere, many a
Rotarian in need of a doctor, lawyer, hotel, dentist, advice, etc., while traveling has
found assistance through Rotary.
11. Entertainment: Every Rotary club and district has parties and activities that provide
diversion in one’s business life. Rotary holds conferences, conventions, assemblies,
and institutes that provide entertainment in addition to Rotary information, education,
and service.
12. The Development of Social Skills: Every week and at various events and functions,
Rotary develops one’s personality, social skills and people skills. Rotary is for people
who like people.
13. Family Programs: Rotary provides one of the world’s largest youth exchange
programs; high school and college clubs for future Rotarians; opportunities for spouse
involvement; and a host of activities designed to help family members in growth and
the development of family values.
14. Vocational Skills: Every Rotarian is expected to take part in the growth and
development of his or her own profession or vocation; to serve on committees and to
teach youth about one’s job or vocation. Rotary helps to make one a better doctor,
lawyer, teacher, etc.
15. The Development of Ethics: Rotarians practice a 4-Way Test that governs one’s
ethical standards. Rotarians are expected to be ethical in business and personal
relationships.
16. Cultural Awareness: Around the world, practically every religion, country, culture,
race, creed, political persuasion, language, color, and ethnic identity is found in
Rotary. It is a cross section of the world’s most prominent citizens from every
background. Rotarians become aware of their cultures and learn to love and work
with people everywhere. They become better citizens of their countries in the process.
17. Prestige: Rotary members are prominent people: leaders of business, the professions,
art, government, sports, military, religion, and all disciplines. Rotary is the oldest and
most prestigious service club in the world. Its ranks include executives, managers,
professionals – people who make decisions and influence policy.
18. Nice People: Rotarians above all are nice people - the nicest people on the face of the
earth. They are important people who follow the policy of it is nice to be important
but it is important to be nice.
19. The Absence of an “Official Creed”: Rotary has no secret handshake, no secret
policy, no official creed, no secret meeting or rituals. It is an open society of men and
women who simply believe in helping others.
20. The Opportunity to Serve: Rotary is a service club. Its business is mankind. Its
product is service. Rotarians provide community service to both local and
international communities. This is perhaps the best reason for becoming a Rotarian:
the chance to do something for somebody else and to sense the self-fulfillment that
comes in the process and return of that satisfaction to one’s own life. It is richly
rewarding.
“He profits most who serves best.”
Richard D. King
Rotary International President 2001-02
Spoke 7/2/2015 Rich Wallace 2015-07-03 04:00:00Z 0
2015 Changeover Photos by Carla Skinder Ron Carr 2015-06-27 00:00:00Z 0

Pie Sale!!!

Posted by Philip Rentz
4th of July Pie Sale:  Ready, set, eat (pie)!!!! 
We need to collect all of the proceeds from ticket sales no later than July 2nd
Each Club Member is responsible for selling 5 tickets ($35.00).
If you have not already turned in your cash and checks from selling tickets, please do so at the meeting-also return any unsold tickets.
We need to account for each ticket.
If you are unable to attend the July 2nd Rotary meeting please contact me directly: 603-422-7861. 
I will also be at the Lebanon Farmers Market Thursday, July 2nd at the Rotary Booth. 
Thank you, Philip Rentz
 
Ed Note: Don't forget your Rotarians at Work T-Shirt!
Pie Sale!!! Philip Rentz 2015-06-26 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 6/11/2015

Posted by Forrest Cole
Forrest was off fishing and claimed he left his computer at home, so this Spoke was a little late.
Sounds like a fishy story to me...
 
 
Called to order by: President Garlan
 
Opening Song: “R-O-T-A-R-Y”
 
Patriotic Song: “America”
 
Invocation: Suellen
 
Song Leader: Rich Wallace   Song: “Don’t Fence Me In”
 
Visiting Rotarians:
None
 
Guests:
None
 
Raffle: Heidi Hoskin won the raffle but drew the Ace of Spades.  Too bad, so sad.
 
Announcements:
  • Look for an upcoming member survey regarding member giving preferences.
  • Carla Skinder was appointed Official Club Photographer.
  • Remember the 3rd. Annual Pie on the 4th. Of July Sale.  Members: sell those tickets and bake those pies!
 
Brags:
  • Carla Skinder has been taking lots of interesting bird photos.
  • Marion Steiner celebrates her 1st. wedding anniversary.
  • Ernst Oidtmann has been staking fire wood, building tiny stone houses and selling pie tickets, with varying degrees of success. 
 
Rotary Minute: Ron Carr talked about Rotary Global Rewards and the Rotary Credit Cards.
 
Speaker: President Garlan and Heidi talked about their recent trip to Sao Paulo, Brazil, to attend the International Rotary Conference.  About 25,000 Rotarians attended the conference from over 100 counties.  Garlan and Heidi attended many sessions on various, interesting subjects.  Last year worldwide Rotary grew by over 45,000 members.  The theme for next year is “Be A Gift to the World”.  Heidi talked about the adventure of the trip and all the wonderful people they met.
 
Submitted by: Forrest Cole
Spoke 6/11/2015 Forrest Cole 2015-06-26 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 6/18/2015

Posted by Ron Carr on Jun 21, 2015
Note that after Rich Wallace asked for a sub to do the Spoke, 3 people actually wrote up a Spoke: Bruce Pacht, Garlan Hoskin and Ron Carr!
Therefore you are presented with what is probably the most accurate Spoke you will ever see!
Bruce's inimitable prose was provided wherever possible...
 
What a vibrant club!  Two committees were meeting before the regular meeting got underway.  At 10:45, the joint Lebanon/Lebanon-Riverside “PIE on the 4th of July” committee got underway, and at 11:00, the Innovation committee met.
 
Called to order by: Nearly-past President Garlan
 
In the absence of Dr. PianoMan, Garlan led us in a capella renditions of R-O-T-A-R-Y and The US National Anthem, reminding us why we usually sing America the Beautiful, or America instead.
 
Invocation: Westin Greene
 
Lunch:  great tomato soup, rice, chicken a la king, BBQ chicken, spinach, other stuff and the usual salads.  One must be fast to escape with a bite of dessert in our club . . .
 
Song Leader: Mary Detsch   Song: This Land is Your Land (A Capella, great job Mary! Altho a child’s song was played to help guide us…)
 
Visiting Rotarians:
None
 
Guests:
None
 
Raffle: Phil Rentz, no joy but lots of sympathy… (yeah, sure)
 
Announcements:
  1. Garlan read a letter from Mascoma high school thanking us for $1000 scholarship
  2. Next Thursday, June 25, no meeting: changeover at Hotel Coolidge. 6 PM, cash bar, 6:45 PM, dinner. Make checks out to Hotel Coolidge otherwise cash at the door. Evans Hale, the new director of Opera North, will be the entertainment.
  3. Don MacMeekin gave an update on the auction: Jean Wulpern and committee have met 4-5 times and preparations. New this year will be sponsors and vendors: vendors may have booth/space for a fee of $500. It is time to start solicitations! Steve Usle will mentor (not “chair”) the solicitation committee. Beneficiary will be Upper Valley Haven: Healthy Eating program (helps kids understand balanced meals): Chopped (food preparation program which teaches how to prepare and serve to other teams): Backpack program, which is a backpack of food for balanced meals over the weekend.
  4. Dan Affeldt – Pie sale: posters are available, please take some to post. (Also available as download on the club site) Sign up for assignments: set up serving cleanup etc. Linda Copp will take your $30 to buy pies if you can’t make pies. Deliver pies to Jake’s on July 1-3, or Senior Ctr., Friday night or early Saturday morning. Delivery prior to Saturday morning is much preferred so that plenty of time is available to cut and serve pie slices. Note also that Mascoma Savings Bank has donated $300 to pie sale.
Westin will distribute the current list of pie sign-ups to refresh memories and obtain commitments from those not signed up.
  1. Lebanon Rotary Board voted to send $150 toward newest-club-in-the-district Randolph Sunrise’s Rotary bell.
 
 
Brags:
  1. Steve Usle bragged that his son is in David Mamet’s Oleanna being presented at the Community Theater of Woodstock, and another location that your scribe missed. Also bragged that he has “walked the walk” and installed a heat pump and solar in his house. Expects a seven year return on investment.
  2. Rick Dyment bragged that he found a previously unknown cousin in Canada, and found that their great-grandfathers were brothers! As a result he found information about a grandfather and great-grandfather’s burial plot and Prince Edward Island (I think this is what I heard).
  3. Garlan bragged that his great, great, great grandfather was a bugler at Valley Forge.
  4. Mike Weins informed us that he has reached a 76, and therefore mentioned a check to the foundation is appropriate. He further bragged that he was at Three Tomatoes with Ron Paul yesterday: that is Ron Michaud and Paul Tierney… Had a couple glasses of wine followed by a pitcher of (something else), but still able to walk home. (I’d brag about that too)
 
Rotary Minute: Kevin Gould – Rotary Foundation figures: our club has donated $9300 to polio plus this year. The entire district has donated $171,000. Every Rotarian Every Year program has donated $270,000 over the years. We have 30 PHFs in the current membership. Our club also has two members of the Bequest Society: this is earned by a donation of at least $10,000 in a person’s will, and 4 Benefactors (any amount in your will).
 
Speaker: John Higgins, Executive Director, Ledyard Charter School (http://ledyardcharterschool.net/)
This is the end of John’s inaugural year.
The Ledyard Charter School has about 40 students, who dropped out of regular high school. Five graduated this year from LCS: two more may complete the work this summer. The graduates have various plans: one will join the Marines, one is going to River Valley community college, another to nursing at Plymouth State, and another is a $3200 scholarship for the Nashua college auto repair shop. One student hopes to go to the Thompson school at University of New Hampshire: however, he is currently doing and should work, and is the sole support for his family.
Funding for the charter school consists of $5400 per student from the state. There is no city support. By comparison, Lebanon spends $16,000 per student. Lebanon special ed students can cost $23,500. All area schools accept the LCS curriculum.
LCS provides oatmeal and yogurt in the morning for breakfast, and a crockpot meal for lunch. Teachers often participate in the food preparation. There is also a backpack program on Fridays to provide students with weekend food. Staff is like family.
LCS is developing partnerships with other institutions. A very successful program this year partnered a Dartmouth professor’s poetry class (Dr Ivy Schweitzer) with LCS. In the first semester the class was held, including Dartmouth students, at an LCS classroom. Dartmouth students were partnered with LCS students. In the second semester the classes were often held at Dartmouth. LCS students that originally said they were not interested in poetry and would certainly not present, did present at the end of the second semester. In fact, 15 LCS students presented, including four that were videotaped because they could not make the presentation.
Another partnership was with Whaleback ski area, where students volunteered various services at the area, and then in most cases had their first experience with winter sports. Kids that initially fell down frequently were skiing like pros at the end.
Next year, LCS plans to repeat the Dartmouth program, and will back program. There will also be additional work assignments, of foods class, and farm to table classes.
Is it worthwhile?  When a parent tells him that their child has attended more classes in the Charter School than in their previous 16 years of schooling, the answer is a profound YES.
John passed around yearbooks, printed by Whitman Communications! Rotary helped support two of the food programs.
Other development efforts:  “Standing right in front of one!”  (Volunteer). We love volunteers – one comes in 2 days a week to talk about laws and teenagers; how to talk with police.
In closing, John mentioned that given the obvious financial situation of LCS, the schools use any kind of help they can get.
 
Submitted by: Bruce Pacht, Garlan Hoskin and Ron Carr
 
Spoke 6/18/2015 Ron Carr 2015-06-22 00:00:00Z 0
Rotary Pie Sale July 4 2015! Westin Greene 2015-06-18 00:00:00Z 0

Special Spoke Today!

Owing to Bill Koppenheffer's retirement, he was unable to use his office computer.
His computer setup was in disarray, so he was unable to get the June 4 Spoke out on time.
But...now, here it is!
Special Spoke Today! 2015-06-13 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 06/04/2015

Posted by William Koppenheffer
 
Called to order by: Don MacMeekin           
 
Opening Song: Rotary
 
Patriotic Song: O Beautiful              
 
Invocation: Steve Usley
 
Song Leader: Bill Babineau              Song: Buffalo Gals
 
Visiting Rotarians:  none
 
 
Guests: Catherine Hogan guest of Suellen
 
 
Raffle: Westin—no queen
 
Announcements:  BOD meeting on 6/9 at 5:30
                                    Garlan on his way to San Paulo
                                    Don wants help with the Duck Race and the ice-out contest
                                    Bruce recognized club members and attendees for District Conference
                                    Westin wants people to sign up for soliciting pies
                                    Jim Shibles presented Mascoma HS scholarship to Garrett Albano
 
 
Brags:             Carla felt like Lucille Ball bagging chocolates at District Conference
                        Steve U for got to mention John Y as  a helper at Baker’s Crossing
                        Rich W’s daughter Brittany got another prize for gymnastics
                        Jennifer is selling her house and attended something (faulty notetaking)
                        Rick D will be at the Lebanon Farmer’s Market selling the airport
                        Paul B bragged about Livability Magazine ranking Lebanon as its #1 city
Ernst bragged about humor at the district Conference.  Apparently he    fell into the butter with his nose playing the piano w/ another conferee
 
 
Rotary Minute: Dan Affeldt
 
Speaker:  Michael Whitman the Honorary Chairman of PaddlePower this year has worked in suicide prevention for 21 years.  NH is a leader in prevention.  Awareness is the number one step in prevention.  Mike produced an album called “Before Their Time” w/ artists contributing words and music.  The proceeds from the sale of albums and CDs (he’s produced 3 albums and 6 CDs now) go to suicide prevention and hospice.  Sales have raised over $60,000.00 so far.
Spoke 06/04/2015 William Koppenheffer 2015-06-13 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 05-28-2015

Posted by Ron Carr on Jun 02, 2015
 
Called to order by: Pres Garlan
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: My Country ‘Tis of Thee
 
Invocation: Garlan
 
Song Leader: Suellen                        Song: Home On the Range
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Richard Wierwille
 
Guests:
None
 
Raffle:  Steve Whitman drew…his own #, but still lost
 
Announcements:
 
Bill Koppenheffer and Don MacMeekin were playing golf at the conference, and have openings for two more.
Kevin Gould reminded us that there was a book sale, books were on a table at the back of the room.
Paul turning looking for a ride to the conference on Friday returning the same day.
Garlan has room for one more person’s going to the conference on Saturday.
We will have visitors from Africa for a leadership conference in July. It is hoped that these visitors may be able to stay the weekend (one-on-one) at a host home to get a flavor of how we live. The club was asked tentatively to consider whether some members might do so.
 
Brags:
Bill Koppenheffer, after 35 ½ years of practicing law, is retiring!
Steve Usle stated what a great group there was at Baker’s Crossing last Saturday.
Ron Carr mentioned that there are pictures of the group in the photo album.
Garlan is off to São Paulo! Long bus ride to get there. One hopes he is flying part of the way.
 
 
Rotary Minute: Bill Koppenheffer spoke about community service: suggested that all of us keep an eye open for opportunities for Rotary to step in and provide assistance when necessary.
 
Speaker: Don MacMeekin used this forum day for a general discussion of how to pursue our clubs charity giving.
He defined a specific question to be considered:
the New Hampshire charities fund contains roughly $80,000, which had been raised in the past for the string of pearls project. Should we:
  1. spend parts of the principal for charitable purposes
  2. spend only interest and fund growth
  3. spend interest only
at the current time, we are spending some of the principal in addition to our fundraising efforts.
Don is also planning to additional fundraisers for his term in office: a duck race on the Mascoma River, and an Ice Out contest.
His budget for charity giving will be $9300.
The following statements are comments made by various members about these questions. (Your scribe apologizes ahead of time for any mis-quotes, or missed comments)
 
Will: we should plan expenditures for maximum impact: concentrate on significant projects
Richard W: we should consider continuing with String of Pearls project
Paul T: we should remain in control of the process for any dollars that we donate
Steve U: reminded us of the Westboro project, which was intended to leverage our donations with others efforts
Ernst O: string of pearls project was started when he was president: major problem was that DOT and the railroad administration would not work with us
Carla S: get a list of charities and Lebanon and West Lebanon, and keep smaller charities in mind
Steve U: our donations should have more focus, and have Rotary associated with the funds expended
Don M: should we focus on one specific charity for multiple years?
Nate M: we should have a strategic plan: a club focus for strategy
Ron C: our donations should have a side effect of raising the image
Mike W: maintain a small fund strictly for local charities
John Y: be sure to follow through on prospects: referred to how the Perillo fund discussions just petered out
Jon B: noted that he had been in contact with the Perillo family numerous times, and they did not come back with any specific needs
Linda C: does Don have any specific projects in mind?
Don M: would like to have a long-term consistent project
Phil R: the plans should emphasize “giving local”
John Y: asked Steve Christie how the mass, foundation makes their decisions. Steve answered that their process was very different, as they required applications and then reviewed the application’s.
It was noted that we do have a request form, but not really a formal application process.
Spoke 05-28-2015 Ron Carr 2015-06-03 00:00:00Z 0

2015 Ethics Award Winners

Posted by Linda Copp
 
               Individual Award: Dr. Susan Mooney, CEO of Alice Peck Day Hospital
   Business Award: Curtis Jacques II, President, West Lebanon Feed and Supply
2015 Ethics Award Winners Linda Copp 2015-06-02 00:00:00Z 0
2015-2016 Theme Ron Carr 2015-06-02 00:00:00Z 0
Baker's Crossing photos Daniel Nash 2015-05-26 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 5/21/2015

Posted by Jason Eborn on May 24, 2015
Call to order:  Garlan Hoskin
Opening Song:  ROTARY
Patriotic Song:  My Country Tis of Thee
Invocation:  Jon Blodgett
 
Visiting Rotarians:  Janice Dupree Dumont
 
Guests:  Elizabeth ? ( I didn't get her last name)
 
Raffle:  Bruce Pacht had the winning ticket but drew the wrong card
 
Announcements:  Sign up for the Change over Dinner on June 25th
                                District Conference is next weekend
                                There was a Board Mtg. last Tuesday and they voted to approve a $1,000 donation for Nepal Aid
                                Steve Usle thanked  people for signing up to support Bakers Crossing.
 
Brags:  Carla Skinner for the Loon Rescue.  Forest going fishing instead of the book sale, Garlan was traveling out of state to trade collectable cars.  
Bartolo golfed in the Chamber's golf tourney.  
Paul Was in the paper.
 
No Rotary Minute.
 
Speaker:  Linda Copp introduced Curt Jacques (Corporate Award – West Lebanon Feed & Supply) and Susan Mooney (Individual award – from APD) as the Rotary Ethics in Business award recipients. Both gave short speeches.
Spoke 5/21/2015 Jason Eborn 2015-05-25 00:00:00Z 0
Spoke etc. - send to Ron: back in the saddle again! 2015-05-19 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 5/14/2015

Posted by Ta Clarke on May 18, 2015
Called to order by:  President Garlan
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
Patriotic Song: Oh Beautiful For Spacious Skies
Invocation: Paul Boucher
Song Leader: Jim
Song: Take Me Out to the Ball Game & The Band Played On
There were no visiting Rotarians
Paul Boucher brought Peter Logan of Goss-Logan Insurance as a Guest
Raffle: Jason pulled the 6 of Spades
Announcements:
  • Jamie spoke of behalf of the pie committee regarding the sign up sheet being passed around and the need for more savory pies.
  • Linda shared that Norm Wakely sends his love
  • Jane shared that her dad was recently diagnosed with lung cancer, but the outlook looks good
  • Garlan reminded everyone about the change over dinner on 6/25/15 and the District Conference May 28-31 in Stowe VT
  • Forrest let everyone know he has eggs available for $3/dzn proceeds to the Rotary Foundation
Brags:
  • Paul Boucher bragged that today was his 16th Anniversary as the Lebanon Chamber President
Rotary Minute: Linda shared some geographical fun facts about Rotary clubs around the world. Some included:
  • Reno, NV’s club is farther west than L.A.’s club
  • Portland, ME’s club is farther south than London’s
Speaker: Steve Christy introduced our speaker, Brian Donovan.   Brian talked about how Keene, NH, even though they don’t have a major highway leading to them, has succeeded in being self-reliant. They have two rotary clubs, a strong chamber, a large lions club.  Brian told us about Jack Dugan from Monadnock Development who has really helped the city thrive by finding/using grants/TIFS/tax credits. 
Questions for the speaker:
  •  
  • Garlan: Can we “borrow” Jack?
  • Steve: What role do the banks play: Throughout the years they got together with Ema Ledger and have been very instrumental in helping with sponsorships/donations
  • Jon: Shared that he got his first loan/mortgage through Carl Cheshire in Keene
  • Garlan: City Mayor has meetings with school system/banks/leaders of the community, how often and at whose direction?The Mayor would LIKE it to be quarterly but they have been delayed, but he does them on his own accord.
  • Paul: Any cooperation with Jack from current businesses? Yes – they support Jack but developers don’t like his nonprofit success as he is there competition.
 
Lastly, Garlan presented Forrest with his new BLUE pin which represented Forrest bringing a new Rotarian to the club (Valerie).
 
Garlan then closed the meeting with the Four Way Test.
 
Spoke 5/14/2015 Ta Clarke 2015-05-19 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 05/07/2015

Posted by Valerie Armstrong on May 06, 2015
 
Called to order by: President Garlan
Opening song: ROTARY
Patriotic song: My Country Tis of Thee
Invocation: Jamie Whyte
Song Leader: Bruce  & Ernst
Song: A Boy’s Best Friend, in honor of Mothers Day
 
Visiting Rotarians: None
 
Guests: None
 
Raffle: 189! Jennifer Grant did not draw the Queen
 
Announcements: Jennifer asked about Club Runner with relation to non-member access
Green up day attendees were Steve Whitman & Ernst, Forrest, Steve, Rick Dement… Thank you!
Paul asked for a fine for not being mentioned as a Green Up Day participant!
Paul Boucher also announced the Lebanon Chamber of Commerce Golf tournament on the 19th for Charity
Paul Boucher received an award to put on his pin for bringing in 2 new members
BOD Meeting changed from 12th to the 19th    It will be held in the Heater Road Room 1A.
The Changeover Dinner will be held on Thursday, June 25 at the Hotel Coolidge.  Sign up at club meeting or on line to Jean Wulpern;  there will be no noon meeting that day.
Still time to sign up for the District conference in Stowe VT the weekend of May 28-31.  Go to www.rotary.7850.org to sign up for 1-3 days. 
 
Brags: Martha was summoned by Carla to brag about Carla’s new car she purchased with Martha’s help!
Michael: Brag: Got his office as it was, same location. Complaint: City Cut down a beloved maple tree.
 
Rotary Minute: Martha Clark finished chewing her food and then shared the story of President Harris, who traveled extensively during the 1920’s and 30’s, often accompanied by his wife, Jean. During these trips, Harris planted trees along the way, which became his hallmark, to symbolize goodwill and friendship. The first tree was planted on European soil in Berlin, Germany, and the planting was attended by a large group, including Rotarians and city officials. Harris also planted trees in Australia, Brazil, Estonia, Sweden, Japan, Mexico, and New Zealand. These trees can be found worldwide on 5 continents and several large islands. Today Rotarians continue to plant trees to symbolize enduring friendships and fellowship, to beautify parks and communities, and to contribute to a greener world.
Speaker:  Steve Whitman announced our speaker, Clay Adams, of Simon Pearce
 
Clay Adams, originally a flatlander,  graduated Tuck School with an MBA. He and his wife have lived in Norwich for 15 years with their 2 girls (ages 6 & 8), and he loves outdoor sports, including hiking the Appalachians. He is an active member of numerous community causes and groups, and has sat on the Mascoma Board for the last 4 years. Clay proudly shares that his father was a 40 year Rotarian, and comments on how his dear friend, Mr. Simon Pearce, would very much have enjoyed today’s program given his love of Irish songs.
 
Clay signed on with RSG, (a 20 person consulting firm started by 3 Dartmouth employees)  in 2002 and still finds it interesting how he made the transition from consulting to retail. He loved his job and found it to be an emotional transition when he left to pursue his current position of CEO in 2012 for Simon Pearce.
 
Clay shares the story of how Simon was born of a potter (his father), and how Simon was diagnosed with dyslexia, and did not graduate from high school. Simon decided to travel to Italy and Sweden, where he met Pia, and opened his first glass blowing operation in Kilkenney, Ireland. In 1981, they made the decision to move the business to Quechee.
 
As business goes, the Quechee location comprises 1/3 of the company’s total sales, and was devastated when hit by hurricane Irene. They had a dozen stores, and had to close 5 of them. It was at this time Simon made the decision to hire a CEO and Board of Directors to help streamline and to reevaluate the business plan. There are presently 3 production facilities; Quechee and Windsor, VT, and Oakland, Maryland. Each plant runs one shift, but furnaces run 24/7, and are maintained at 2400 degrees, making overhead a challenge despite their ability to produce their own energy. So far as products, last year their number one selling item was their “Vermont Evergreens”, at 20,000 units. They are looking to expand into other dining and sitting room accessories, such as linens and flatware. Along with several retail locations in New York, Texas, and North Carolina, they also supply wholesale to prestigious companies, such as Cloverleaf, Neiman Marcus, and Bloomingdales.
 
Clay goes on to say that most glass production takes place in Eastern Europe and China, and that there are very few “American Made” glass companies still in existence today. Still, Pearce believes there is no economic benefit to taking production abroad and has adopted processes by Don McCabe of Corning Glass to work smarter, not harder. This effort coupled with the continued pursuit of handcrafted excellence, plus site design changes at Quechee, inclusive of a new bar which features hand crafted stemware, help to build the vision of making Simon Pearce not just a great place to stop, but a revered destination.
 
Submitted by Valerie Armstrong
 
 
 


 
Spoke 05/07/2015 Valerie Armstrong 2015-05-07 00:00:00Z 0
Speakers: Detailed info Ron Carr 2015-05-04 00:00:00Z 0
Click the Photo to Read the May 7 Program Preview Steve Whitman 2015-05-04 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 4/30/2015

Posted by Don MacMeekin
Called to order by: President Garlan
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful
 
Invocation: Martha Clarke
 
Song Leader: Martha Clarke assisted by DG Bruce Pacht   Song: Silver Threads Among the Gold
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Bill Secord – Lebanon Riverside Club
 
Guests:
None
Raffle: Rick Dyment with ticket 158 – No Winner this week!
 
Announcements:
  1. Changeover is June 25th – There is no noon meeting.  Location is being determined
  2. Shelter Box Proposal to Grants and Operations committee for evaluation during today’s club forum
  3. Garlan is still looking for pictures from about half the club members
  4. Jim Shibles pointed out the article in the Rotarian highlighting Walter Hughes and the new Rotary club in Sunyani, Ghana for young professionals.
 
Brags:
Paul Tierney –1.  our Nepal response is the type of thing we should be doing.  2. His son Ryan is living on the west coast and doing well.
John Yacavone – 1. He and Sue celebrated 32 years together; 2. Sue celebrated a Birthday on Sunday.
Jennifer Grant – Apologized for missing the District Conference it conflicts with her organizations annual meeting.
Forrest Cole 1. Bragged about Fishing with some friends, one of whom was missing a meeting only to have their pictures taken while fishing by a Valley New Photog.  OOPS!  2. Forrest then did his poet lauriate job by reciting a poem about fishing.
 
Rotary Minute: Bruce Pacht shared some thoughts on change which does not mark the end but demonstrates the continuum of Rotary.  These reflections were raised by the pending end of his term as DG and our fast approaching Changing of the guard at the club.
 
Speaker: None
This meeting was the monthly Club Forum meeting.  Each table was established for a standing committee.  The committees met during the normal speakers time. 
 
Submitted by: Don MacMeekin
Spoke 4/30/2015 Don MacMeekin 2015-05-04 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Lebanon Programs for May 2015

Posted by Steve Whitman

May 7, 2015

Clay Adams, CEO

Simon Pierce

“Building the future”

 

May 14, 2015

Brian Donovan, VP

Mascoma Bank, Keene

Business & Government

“Building the future”

 

May 21, 2015

Presentation of

Ethics Awards

 

May 28, 2015

Club Forum

Work session for Committees.

Rotary Club of Lebanon Programs for May 2015 Steve Whitman 2015-05-04 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 4/30/2015

Posted by Don MacMeekin on Apr 17, 2015
Called to order by: President Garlan
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful
 
Invocation: Martha Clarke
 
Song Leader: Martha Clarke assisted by DG Bruce Pacht   Song: Silver Threads Among the Gold
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Bill Secord – Lebanon Riverside Club
 
Guests:
None
Raffle: Rick Dyment with ticket 158 – No Winner this week!
 
Announcements:
  1. Changeover is June 25th – There is no noon meeting.  Location is being determined
  2. Shelter Box Proposal to Grants and Operations committee for evaluation during today’s club forum
  3. Garlan is still looking for pictures from about half the club members
  4. Jim Shibels pointed out the article in the Rotarian highlighting Walter Hughes and the new Rotary club in Sunyani, Ghana for young professionals.
 
Brags:
Paul Tierney –1.  our Nepal response is the type of thing we should be doing.  2. His son Ryan is living on the west coast and doing well.
John Yacavone – 1. He and Sue celebrated 32 years together; 2. Sue celebrated a Birthday on Sunday.
Jennifer Grant – Apologized for missing the District Conference it conflicts with her organizations annual meeting.
Forrest Cole 1. Bragged about Fishing with some friends, one of whom was missing a meeting only to have their pictures taken while fishing by a Valley New Photog.  OOPS!  2. Forrest then did his poet laurite job by reciting a poem about fishing.
 
Rotary Minute: Bruce Pacht shared some thoughts on change which does not mark the end but demonstrates the continuum of Rotary.  These reflections were raised by the pending end of his term as DG and our fast approaching Changing of the guard at the club.
 
Speaker: None
This meeting was the monthly Club Forum meeting.  Each table was established for a standing committee.  The committees met during the normal speakers time. 
 
Submitted by: Don MacMeekin
Spoke 4/30/2015 Don MacMeekin 2015-04-18 00:00:00Z 0

Weekly Spokes and Assignments

Posted by Ron Carr
Ron Carr will be out a few weeks due to shoulder surgery.
Westin Greene will be publishing the Spoke, so Spoke should be sent to him when typed.
I have also provided him with an assignment list thru May 7.
Westin's address is westingreene@gmail.com
Weekly Spokes and Assignments Ron Carr 2015-04-10 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 3/26/2015

Posted by Steve Whitman on Mar 30, 2015
 
 
 
 
It was a meeting like all meetings and yet it wasn’t. Of course there was the usual form and fodder but you could tell there was more going on as different groups of people were meeting at different tables than the usual and the little blue tickets were being lined up in rows so the numbers could be quickly checked. Today, someone would have a 50/50 chance of drawing the Queen of Hearts.
 
Jamie got to pull the lucky number and Carla, who had carefully picked one of her five tickets by matching the last three numbers to her birth month and day, nailed it. Without hesitation she quickly picked one of the two cards Steve had carefully shuffled and lo, she had the Queen that had eluded the 50 others who had gone before her.
 
In keeping with the different normal for the day, Ernst and Forrest led us in singing “In the Good Old Summertime” as a cold rain was starting to fall outside. President Garlan said a few words then allowed Steve C to have the floor since Steve indicated he could make some money for the club in the same fashion he does for his employer, “arrive late, leave early and make money while he’s there.”
 
Sure enough, as Steve proceeded to tell how, arriving late, he noted that Paul had parked his “Deacon” Buick in a convenient location where it should not have been. However, there it was with a handicap sign hanging on the rearview mirror. A fine in the magnitude of $5 was appropriately requested.
 
Paul quickly turned the table on Steve by explaining how he had picked up Mike to bring him to the meeting and therefore was parking, sign properly displayed, where he should. Graciously, Steve C. coughed up the first $5 for drawing an erroneous conclusion, Mike said he would add a 2nd $5 for enjoying the ride, and Paul dropped in a 3rd  $5 for using a sign of questionable lineage. Christy was correct; he could certainly raise money with little effort!
 
President-Elect Don discussed the Auction Committee’s choice of The Haven to be the major beneficiary of the proceeds raised in the 2015-16 year auction.
 
The committee proposes we support The Haven in starting a new “Backpack” program to provide additional nutrition to children who participate in school lunch programs during the times the schools are not involved, such as weekends and vacations. In addition they are working on educational programs for the families in need re: healthy eating.
 
Paul made the motion to accept the committee’s recommendation, seconded by Steve C., where upon it was approved on a strong, rousing voice vote.
 
Carla, our fore-mentioned winner, demonstrated true Rotary spirit and became the first contributor to The Haven as she donated $250 to the cause.
 
In an answer to a question from John the Auction Committee said they had requested the amount of $10,000 be designated for the donation. That request is now being discussed at the Grants and Financial Operations Committee and a recommendation will be made in the near future.
 
Don thanked the members for the notes and thoughts he received last week on the death of his 97 year old mother as did Mike on the recent death of Jeanne. Mike said there would be a memorial service in the spring.
 
After a few more brags and fines the committees went to work. And this was what really made the meeting different. There was lots of discussion from around all of the six tables where groups were assembled. And as the meeting was drawing to a close the chairs all got in a quick summary of what had been discussed and the result was we didn’t break until 1:36PM. It was a great meeting.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Spoke 3/26/2015 Steve Whitman 2015-03-31 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 3/19/2015

Posted by Bruce Pacht on Mar 19, 2015
 
 
 
 
MCTO circa 12:15 PM by Pres. Garlan.
We sang “R-O-T-A-R-Y.”  Ernst chose “America the Beautiful” for our opening song.
 
Secretary Steve’s report:
  • Visiting Rotarians: 
Joanne Lemieux, former Lebanon Rotarian, current Charlestown, NH Rotarian.  Lots of applause.  Joanne says, “After an 11-year hiatus of working for a company in Boston, I sold my house in Orford and moved to Alstead.  I called up the Charlestown Rotary president and said, ‘I’d like to be a member, and your International chair, and your webmaster!’”  Sounds like our Joanne, alright!
  • Guests:  Eric Peterson, Jennifer Grant’s son; Valerie Armstrong
 
DRAW:  Only three (3) cards remained in the deck.  Many, many tickets were sold.
Mary Detsch held #807 and drew the KING OF SPADES!!!  Only two cards next week!!!  Purchase lots of tickets to support the club operations budget and WIN!
 
SONG:  When Irish Eyes Are Smiling, played by Ernst O’Oidtmann and led expertly by Jane McMason.
 
ROTARY FIVE MINUTES by Suellen Griffin:  The Goals of RI President Gary Huang’s Presidential Citation as accomplished by Lebanon Rotary
  1. Light up the family of Rotary – hosted a Rotary Day event, the evening with the Chamber of Commerce; club president registered for the RI Convention in Sao Paolo this June; 10% of members joined a Rotary Action Group or Rotary Fellowship; Rotary’s new visual identity guidelines were adapted to our website and media pages.
  2. Light up Rotary Membership – the club achieved a net gain of 7%; every member has a profile on My Rotary; we recruited Steve Christy, former member, and also Carla Skinder; we increased diversity
  3. Light up Rotary Service – focused on maternal and child health with auction proceeds going to dental care for children; club president donated to TRF; July PIE event proceeds went to PolioPlus; we achieved 100% participation in TRF annual fund.
The completed citation application was presented to District Governor Bruce who thanked the club and announced that Lebanon’s was the first application to come in.
 
ANNOUNCEMENTS
  • Lyn and Dick Wierwille’s daughter continues to fight cancer; let’s keep them all in our thoughts.
  • Rich Wallace announced Hanover Rotary’s Annual Pancake Breakfast this Saturday at the Hanover Fire Department, 48 Lyme Road, Saturday, March 21, 2015, 7:30am - 9:30am.
  • Two condolence cards circulated:  for president-elect Don MacMeekin, whose mother passed away, and for Mike Weins, whose former spouse, business partner and good friend, Janine also passed away.
  • Jean Wulpern:  Alice in Wonderland ballet and dinner on April 11, dinner 5:15 PM at 3 Tomatoes, show at 7 at LOH.
  • Jean again:  District Conference registration is happening NOW.  Stoweflake Resort would prefer that you MAIL your information so they will have all the information the conference committee would like to have.  Early registration (before April 1), makes you eligible for a drawing for a 2-night stay at Stoweflake at another time.
 
BRAGS
  • Jane Mason – March 2 was her 20th anniversary of becoming a Rotarian
  • Ernst – back from the country of Qatar to visit his son Max and family:  it’s very dusty, warm (80-90 degrees), and there’s lots of construction going on.  Georgetown, Carnegie Mellon, and NYU all have built or are building education centers.  Qataris are all very rich.  One guy on the handball team didn’t know how to tie his shoelaces – “Let me get my chauffeur . . .”
  • Paul Tierney – Applauded Suellen for the nice job she did honcho-ing the presidential citation process to completion.
 
PROGRAM:  Forrest Cole introduced Walter Ryan who is a volunteer Wildlife Steward for the NH Fish and Game department.  Walter’s former career was at the shipyard and Sturm Ruger.  Walter discussed results of recent research on bobcat population restoration by the NH F&G Department.
 
1937 saw the first national legislation in the US to fund wildlife preservation.  It was a Federal excise tax on hunting equip, which since then has been distributed back to the states.  In NH, these monies have funded hunter safety, the Owl Brook Conservation Center and other things.  In order to get this federal funding, NH promises not to use money raised from hunting and fishing licenses for anything other than maintaining the fishery and wildlife.  The moose and turkey populations have come back since Walter was growing up in the 1950s.
 
Bobcats range over almost all of USA; historically in NH, south of the Whites.  Lynx in Canada kept bobcats out of there, but as lynx left, bobcats moved north to fill that spot in the food chain.
 
Walter told us that male bobcats generally require twice as much space as female bobcats, a phenomenon which several female members of the club enthusiastically suggested applied to humans as well.  Bobcats may live up to 10 years, but most die by age 5-6 because when they break their teeth, they can no longer function successfully as carnivores. 
 
The recent study included identification of wildlife corridors.  Live capture of bobcats allows for study of gender, size, etc.  GPS Telemetry collars are attached, then they are released.  Ernst has observed a pair up on Farnum Hill.
The meeting ended with our motto:  “Service Above Self”
Spoke 3/19/2015 Bruce Pacht 2015-03-20 00:00:00Z 0
Pathways Community Celebration Ron Carr 2015-03-17 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 3/12/2015

Posted by Bartolo Governanti on Mar 15, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
Called to order by: Garlan Hoskin
 
Opening Song: Rotary Song
 
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful
 
Invocation: Mary Detsch
 
Song Leader: Jim Shibles      Song: Sweet Caroline (very rousing rendition)
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Don MacMeekin, Bruce Pacht away at PETS training. 
No visiting Rotarians.
 
Guests:
Kathleen MacLean, Instructor at River Valley Project Search @DHMC.
Denise Abrahamsen, Pathways of River Valley.
 
Raffle: Steve Whitman announced 73 additional raffle tickets sold, winner was Westin Greene, failed to draw queen, three cards left.
 
Announcements:
Jon Blodgett: Janine Weins, wife of Michael Weins has passed.
 
Jim Shibles: We have received an applicant from Mascoma High School for the RYLA program.
 
Suellen Griffin: Introduced new policy from BOD. It shall be the policy and procedure for the Rotary Club of Lebanon, NH to have members start new and existing ideas, in collaboration with the club president, for club events, club fund raising activities and/or club sponsorship of activities, at the appropriate committee. The Committee will seek to receive the backing and commitment from the Board of Director by planning the event timeline and budget and by making the case why the event fits with the Club’s goals and objectives. The Board, will in turn, for all approved events, bring the proposal to the Club for commitment and support.

Suellen explained that the idea was to layout the roadmap of how an idea moves through the club from a member to the correct committee to discussion with the President to committee planning and preparation of budgets and timelines then to the Board of Directors for support and approval and finally to the club membership for approval and support. After a brief discussion she put forward the motion, seconded by Paul which passed unanimously. If you have any questions, please forward them to Suellen and the Innovation Committee.

 
 
Brags:
Carla Skinder: told sweet story of her 99 year old friend who she had recently visited.
 
Rotary Minute: Forest Cole: told informative story of the origin and history of grass-fed beef and rise of mechanized farming.
 
Speaker: Kathleen MacLean, Instructor at River Valley Project Search @DHMC.
Denise Abrahamsen, Pathways of River Valley.
 
River Valley Project Search, a school to work program for young adults with disabilities.
 
Website: http://www.dartmouth-hitchcock.org/project_search
 
 
Submitted by: Bartolo Governanti
Spoke 3/12/2015 Bartolo Governanti 2015-03-16 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 3/5/2015

Posted by Paul Boucher on Mar 06, 2015
 
 
 
 
Meeting call to order by President Garlan
 
Patriotic Song:  Led by Jim Schibles   My Country Tis of Thee
 
Invocation:  Nate Miller
 
Song Leader:  Jim Schibles on guitar and Dan Affeldt as leader
 
Visiting Rotarians:   Doug Searles from the Valley Club
 
Guests:  Jason Eborn  guests of Paul Boucher, Martha Clark, 
 
Raffle:  Bruce Pacht,  no queen,  four cards left for next week.
 
Announcements:  Forrest Cole reported  an $18 profit on the book sale.  Keep up bringing those books in
  Nate Miller reported on doing an artic swim for a colleague suffering from ALS
   Paul Boucher candidates night for city council and School board candidates on March 5th
  
Brags:
 
Visiting Rotarian Doug Searles bragging on the excellent ski conditions at Sugarbush
Betsy on the great job our youth did at a recent rhobotics competition in Manchester.
 
Rotary Minute:  John Yacavone who reported on a little known Rotarian from Vermont and his accomplishments.  The kicker is that he was blind
 
Speaker:  Kathy Schneider reported on her medical mission trip to Guatamala. Great work done by all.
 
Spoke 3/5/2015 Paul Boucher 2015-03-07 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 3/5/2015

Posted by Paul Boucher on Mar 06, 2015
 
 
 
 
Meeting call to order by President Garlan
 
Patriotic Song:  Led by Jim Schibles   My Country Tis of Thee
 
Invocation:  Nate Miller
 
Song Leader:  Jim Schibles on guitar and Dan Affeldt as leader
 
Visiting Rotarians:   Doug Searles from the Valley Club
 
Guests:  Jason Eborn  guests of Paul Boucher, Martha Clark, 
 
Raffle:  Bruce Pacht,  no queen,  four cards left for next week.
 
Announcements:  Forrest Cole reported  an $18 profit on the book sale.  Keep up bringing those books in
  Nate Miller reported on doing an artic swim for a colleague suffering from ALS
   Paul Boucher candidates night for city council and School board candidates on March 5th
  
Brags:
 
Visiting Rotarian Doug Searles bragging on the excellent ski conditions at Sugarbush
Betsy on the great job our youth did at a recent rhobotics competition in Manchester.
 
Rotary Minute:  John Yacavone who reported on a little known Rotarian from Vermont and his accomplishments.  The kicker is that he was blind
 
Speaker:  Kathy Schneider reported on her medical mission trip to Guatamala. Great work done by all.
 
Spoke 3/5/2015 Paul Boucher 2015-03-07 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 2/26/2015

Posted by Nathan Miller on Mar 02, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
Call to Order: President Garlan Hoskin
Opening Song: ROTARY
Patriotic Song: My Country ‘Tis of Thee
Invocation: Bartolo Governanti
Song Leader: Paul Boucher
Song: Molly Malone
Visiting Rotarians: N/A
Guests: Martha Clarke, Valerie Armstrong
Raffle: No Winner (Nate Miller drew the King of Hearts, and five cards remain.)
Rotary Minute: Philip Rentz discussed the next level of the Speech Contest, which will be held at the District Meeting at Lyndon State College.
Announcements:
  • Garlan Hoskin presented Kevin Gould with a Paul Harris Fellow (Plus 3) Award for his efforts supporting the Rotary Foundation.
  • John Yacavone asked for a volunteer on Monday, March 2nd from 4:00 to 6:00 PM to assist with outreach for the Upper Valley Smiles Program.
  • Linda Copp announced that Norm Blakely was able to dance at his granddaughter’s wedding, and he is making substantial progress in his recovery from medical issues.
  • Bruce Pacht announced that Rotary just celebrated its 110th Anniversary. Bruce reported that he recently visited the Drummondville/Malouin Club to and exchanged banners. Their club’s motto (translated into English) is “Share, Give, and Hope.”
Brags:
  • Jennifer Grant’s son Eric, who is a student at the University of New Hampshire, was recently recognized for rescuing a stranded motorist. Jennifer’s daughter Emma’s boyfriend was on the front page of Thursday’s Valley News, and Windsor County Partners was featured in this month’s Kid Stuff magazine.
  • Suellen Griffin completed her Master’s Degree on February 14th.
  • Ron Michaud was on the front page of the Valley News recently.
  • Paul Boucher just returned from a trip to Europe, where his wife got to celebrate her birthday at the foot of the Eiffel Tower.
Business Items:
Don MacMeekin discussed a recommendation that this year’s Rotary Auction proceeds be used to support three programs administered by the Upper Valley Haven: 1) The Haven’s Healthy Cooking/Eating Program; 2) The Haven Backpack Program; and 3) The Haven’s “Chopped” Program. All three programs build nutrition skills for children and their parents.
Ernst Oidtmann suggested that the dietician group at DHMC could also be connected with the Haven to build capacity for these programs. Steve Usle suggested that an elevator speech is needed to succinctly explain what Rotary support would result in. Betsey Child noted Rotary’s successful partnership with the Haven for the club’s Valentine’s Day Dance. Jennifer Grant suggested that the Club commit to providing a percentage of proceeds rather than a fixed dollar amount.
In the interest of time, the discussion was tabled and will be further considered by the Board of Directors.
A Club Forum followed with committee meetings.
Spoke 2/26/2015 Nathan Miller 2015-03-03 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 2/19/2015

Posted by Steven Usle on Feb 23, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
Called to order by: President Garlan Hoskin
 
Opening Song: ROTARY
 
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful
 
Invocation: Westin Greene
 
Song Leader: Jamie Whyte   Song: Don't Fence me In
 
Visiting Rotarians:
N/A
 
Guests:
Carla Skindler
 
Raffle: No winner (yet again!)
 
Announcements:
Betsey mentioned planning/prep meeting for District Conference at Bruce Pacht's home on 2/24 (3PM-5PM).
Bruce Pacht indicated that another guest speaker (film documentarian) will run a session at the District Conference (and he urged members to register prior to April 1 to be included in a raffle for a free weekend (post-conference) at the Snow Flake Inn. 
Betsey asked for a volunteer to help pick up Conference related printed materials in Randolph.
Garlan announced that Sue Shaw is the new Asst. District Governor.  He also indicated that Northern Stage plans to initiate various workshops that may be of interest to Rotary members (info. will follow).  Also, SPARK is initiating a Breakfast event to help fund its programs.
 
Brags:
Rich Wallace indicates that the Valley News is launching a new supplement to the paper called "Enterprise". 
Forrest Cole bragged about his grandson, who recently signed up with the Army National Guard.
Linda Copp announced City Center Ballet's recent receipt of a substantial donation from the Byrne Foundation.
Jim Shibles and Ernst Oidtmann spoke about their recent travels to remote Maine, where they were not only challenged by below zero temperatures (leading to frostbite!) but also by the prospect of the group being visited by a notorious felon and all-around, on-the-loose, bad guy named "Butch".  A brief discussion regarding guns, and the merits of "catapults" ensued.  Jim spoke of the hundreds of deer being fed by the neighbor...all looking so healthy that Jim began to questions his long-term commitment to a vegetarian diet! 
 
 
 
Rotary Minute: Nate Miller spoke about the Rotary custom and practice of using the Rotarians first name, or nick-name during meetings.  Nate's excellent 1-minute presentation had everyone in support of Bill K.'s suggestion that Nate deliver the "Rotary Minute" every week!
 
Speaker: Steve Taylor
Steve is a former newspaper guy, and past NH Commissioner of Agriculture.  He spoke about sustainability in agriculture and changes in agriculture that he's witnessed over the years.  He mentioned that in 1962, there was an abundance in both New Hampshire and Vermont of 'hill farm' agriculture (many local smaller farms).  With the requirement (in the late 1950's) of bulk tanks, many smaller farms were 'sold off' and the prevailing way of life vanished.  This led to farm consolidation (and as many as 2/3rds of the working farms in Vermont).  This has led to the shift to a "sustainable" model, and a rediscovery of the nearby consumer, evolution of farmer's markets, and idea of buying local.
In the 2000's the focus turned to bulk commodity agriculture (dairy) which has aging practitioners and expensive start-up costs; and globalization/concentration within the marketplace.
New agriculture speaks to 'mystique' of local, and sustainability.  Today's practitioners have better marketing skills.  A reliance on science binds the communities (i.e. bulk commodity and globalization) together. 
Steve indicated that sustainability in agriculture is not new.  In 1991, he met with folks from Denmark who visited West Lebanon to learn what sustainability was all about.
The discussion then turned to fertilizer, and the post-WWII use of ammonium nitrate by farmers...and how most farmers have moved away from such methods (opting for manure being generated on the farm to enhance yields of corn).  He also spoke about "dry hay" and how we have adapted technology originally found in Europe in this area.  Steve answered numerous questions related to 'sugaring', energy's role in agriculture, technology that is replacing labor (i.e. robotics used for milking cows), the cost of tractors, etc.
Spoke 2/19/2015 Steven Usle 2015-02-24 00:00:00Z 0
Speech Contest Level 2 Ron Carr 2015-02-13 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 2/12/2015

Posted by Ron Carr on Feb 12, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
Called to order by: Pres Garlan
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: N/A no instrument at Jesse’s
 
Invocation: Phil Rentz
 
Song Leader: N/A     Song:
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Dean Cashman, Jim Damren and Sherry Calkins, all from Lebanon-Riverside
Missed name – from Hanover
Scott Osgood from Henniker
 
Guests:
Tina O’Donnell speech coach for Marya Merriam
David Weidman from KUA accompanying Zhengqi (Jack) Zhang
 
Raffle: N/A
 
Announcements:
John Y needs people to sign up for Upper Valley Smiles table at Hartford Elementary on March 1-2. We must support this effort or lose our matching grant! Sign-up was passed around.
Forrest awarded maple syrup to Mary Detsch, for being one of the six people that responded on the club's Facebook account, to a comment of his. He apologized that he did not have the promised pint of maple syrup but hoped she would accept the quart he brought.
Steve Whitman and Don MacMeekin were honored with pins recognizing the fact that they had each brought a new member to the club.
Bill Babineau was recognized with a Paul Harris +1 pin that he had earned.
Jean Wulpern reminded the club of the event at the AVA Gallery Friday at 5 o’clock, followed by dinner for those who signed up at Jesse’s at 6:45
Garlan announced that David Atwood had died, at age 94.
Ron Carr noted that the clubs Facebook page is being re-examined, particularly since there are two. Use of Facebook is encouraged because this is another contact point for persons outside the club to learn about our club. Facebook can also be valuable when the club’s Facebook members share events like the auction, pie buffet etc. on their Facebook pages.
Bartolo then mentioned that LinkedIn is more widely used by business people: Garlan promptly appointed Bartolo to look into the club’s potential use of LinkedIn.
 
Brags:
Linda Copp noted that Theo Pilette took the Grand Prize at the Boston round of the Youth American Grande Prix. He will now compete in the finals in NYC. YGAP is one of the Olympics of Ballet.
 
Paul Boucher admitted to a seventieth birthday, with an appropriate contribution to the Doris Mollica fund. Paul and his wife are off to Paris, as chaperones to a student group.
 
Rotary Minute: Marion Steiner reviewed the history of our emblem, the gear wheel.
 
Speaker: Speech Contest Level 2 was moderated by Phil Rentz.
The three contestants tossed coins to determine the order of presentation
Zhengqi (Jack) Zhang went first, with a speech oriented around the four-way test. He was eloquent and pointed out the role of his grandmother, father, and mother in various aspects of how the four-way test was applied in their lives, and how that influenced him.
Elyse Lindahl went next, connecting the idea of service above self with her concerns about sustainability and responsibility for the environment.
Marya Merriam explained how she used the four-way test to shape her approach to creating a town energy committee in Brookfield, Vermont.
 
Note that some biographical detail about each of these contestants is available on the Clubrunner website under the speaker notes.
 
After due deliberation, the contest judges chose Marya Merriam as the contest winner. Garlan then gave Marya a check for $150 and posed for a picture, which included Phil Rentz.
Spoke 2/12/2015 Ron Carr 2015-02-13 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 2/5/2015

Posted by Philip Rentz on Feb 05, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
Called to order by: Don McMeekin             
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: America The Beautiful
 
Invocation: Don McMeekin
 
Song Leader: Song: no song this week
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Catherine Schneider
 
Guests:
Valerie Armstrong
Susan Matthews
 
Raffle: not this week
 
Announcements:
 
Brags:
Bruce Pacht attended the induction of his son Asher to the Rotary Club in Fishkill, NY
Linda Copp has a student with an unusual name – America, and bragged that she has only once called her ‘Miss America’!
Forrest and Dan’s pictures appeared in the Valley News this week
Ernst is going on a skiing and winter camping adventure.
Paul T. is promoting his on-line high school program by sending emails to 9000 high school counselors.
Ron Michaud’s 24 year old Grand Daughter has been clean for one year!
Dan Nash recalled one of Ernst’s camping adventures which included a climb over a 2000’ mountain in deep snow that ended up taking 12 hours to complete.
Ron M. complimented Dan Nash on how well the Baptist Church was maintained.
 
Rotary Minute: Paul T. spoke on ethics intoning that the basis for our emotions is love and fear. He went on to say that we value compassion, respect, and integrity and that the 4-way test expresses all these values based on our love for fellow man. Well said Paul!
 
Speaker: Nate Miller
Nate is the Executive Director of the Upper Valley Lake Sunapee Regional Planning Commission and has recently joined our club.  Nate spoke about a report that UVLSRPC just completed: ‘Key Themes facing the region over the next twenty years’ which lays out some of the many issues our local communities will confront in the coming years.  The UVLSRPC is a voluntary association of 27 cities and towns in Western New Hampshire from Piermont to Charlestown and east to Wilmot as described by Nate.  Why these 27 towns?  Nate explained that the association was formed in 1963 and that the communities are tied together economically as well as being in the same watersheds. The UVLSRPC also mirrors the territories of other organizations. Some of the key topics that Nate spoke of were the natural aging of our population, slower growth anticipated for the region, and the fact that 46% of our roads were in poor condition. The complete report is available at your local library, or on-line at their website:  www. uvlsrpc.org
 
This was an excellent presentation – we are happy to have Nate as a new member!
 
 
Spoke 2/5/2015 Philip Rentz 2015-02-06 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 1/29/2015

 
 
 
 
 
 
Meeting opened by President Garlan
Patriotic Song led by Ernst
Invocation led by Mary Deutch substituting for Paul Tierney.
No Songs this week
No Rotary Minute
No Visiting Rotarians
Guests:  Invitees from the Business After Hours last week:  
Valerie Armstrong from Family Farm Insurance; Jamie Kenyon, Service Credit Union; Martha Clark, Service Credit Union
Announcements:   Don MacMeekin announced the Rotary International theme for next year is  “Be a Gift to the world”
                 District Governor Bruce announced that the Membership Development workshop scheduled for this weekend has been cancelled due to the flu epidemic
                     closing some areas of DHMC
Brags:           Ron Carr bragged that in the blizzard of 1978 one of the first responders in Providence RI at the Red Cross Center to help the stranded was his son in law.
     
Program         The club forum ensued with each committee meeting to plan activities for the next quarter.  The membership
                    committee listed those classifications that the club is lacking of representation in the club.  Those being, APD, restaurants                 
                    hotels and motels, manufacturing, retail, city, fire, & police representation, and school representation. 
 
Spoke 1/29/2015 Paul Boucher 2015-02-03 00:00:00Z 0
Doris Mollica Fund - Thank You letters Forrest Cole 2015-01-23 00:00:00Z 0

Speech Contest Winner!!!

Posted by Jim Shibles on Jan 22, 2015
The Rotary Club of Lebanon presented a $100 check to the winner of the Rotary Speech Contest’s first round on January 22 at their luncheon meeting. From left to right are Jim Shibles, Speech Contest Chair; Zhengqi “Jack” Zhang, winner, and 9th grade student at Kimball Union Academy; Phil Rentz, Speech Contest Coordinator; and David Weidman, Jack’s teacher, Dean of Faculty and Assistant Head of Academic Affairs at KUA. Jack is from Nanning, China. He was voted as Co-President of his class, is enrolled in multiple honors courses, and a member of the school's Mountain Biking team. He is looking forward to traveling to India this winter as a cast member of Kimball Union's musical.
 
 
Speech Contest Winner!!! Jim Shibles 2015-01-23 00:00:00Z 0

1/22/2015 New Inductees!

The Rotary Club of Lebanon inducted two new members at their luncheon meeting on January 22.
From left to right: Sponsor Don MacMeekin and Bartolo Governanti; Nathan Miller and his sponsor, Steve Whitman. 
 
1/22/2015 New Inductees! Ron Carr 2015-01-23 00:00:00Z 0
Caution: This Spoke has A LOT of stuff in it! Keep reading!!! 2015-01-23 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 1/22/2015

Posted by Dan Affeldt on Jan 22, 2015
 
 
 
 
Called to order by: Pres. Garlan
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful
 
Invocation: Paul Boucher
 
Song Leader: Marion Steiner            Song: Poly Wolly Doodle [All Day]
 
Visiting Rotarians: None
 
Guests:  Valerie Armstrong – potential new member
David Weidman, KUA, Speech Instructor and Dean of Faculty, Assistant Head for Academic Affairs
Zhenggi “Jack” Zhang, KUA Student and Speech Contest Participant   
 
 
Special:  New Member Inductions
Nate Miller sponsored by Steve Whitman; Bartolo Governanti sponsored by Steve Whitman
 
Announcements:
Some possible gray area here between announcements and brags – will let the reader decide
 
District Governor Bruce Pacht presented a comprehensive review of the plans for the upcoming 2015 District Conference, with a specific focus on how as his “home club” can be of particular help.  Any questions, desires to volunteer, etc. should be directed to Jean Wulpern or to Bruce.
 
Steve Usle shared information on a free NET Zero Home Workshop [as in Eliminate Your Energy Bill] to be held January 29, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at LaValley Building Supply in West Lebanon 
If you wish to attend please RSVP to Steve:  Steve@PrudentLiving.com
 
Pres. Garlan reminded, on behalf of Kevin Gould who he reported was selling a car at that very moment, that if you have not made you Rotary Foundation Donation there is still time – just get it to Kevin and he will do the rest.
 
We now move into the area of brags and remembrance. .
Bill Babineau bragged that his daughter Andrea is moving from one show to her next gig with no “down time” in between.  This is a first in her career, and very positive sign. As “American Horror Story” winds down she will be shifting her focus to New Orleans for her new show 
Rich Wallace and his daughter visited UNH on a getting to know the place trip  -  and while there enjoyed watching UNH Hockey readily handle U Mass
Ron Carr’s granddaughter turned her holiday break from Vassar into an opportunity to lead a survival “camp” for high school students, which included purposely leaving students camping in widely separated spots in the woods, each alone & on their own, for a few days.   Good work ! 
Paul Tierney shared a photo presentation of some of his remarkable woodworking skills, as evidenced by the several desks he has made.   Each was different, but all share amazing workmanship and demonstrate a keen eye for design.   Our self-pronounced club curmudgeon is a person of many talents. But perhaps best not to tell him lest it go to his head
 
And a remembrance:  Ron Michaud recounted how much Josie, their standard poodle, was an essential part of their lives as he shared that her time had come to leave.  To a person I know that we all understand what losing a special member of our “extended” family feels like.  Our sincere condolences.      
 
Rotary Minute: None
 
Speaker: First round of speech contest
Unfortunately the contestant from Mascoma was ill, and unable to participate.
 
However, David Weidman, KUA, Speech Instructor and Dean of Faculty, Assistant Head for Academic Affairs accompanied KUA’s entry, Zhenggi “Jack” Zhang, to the meeting
Jack, 16 years old, is a native of China, where his family resides. 
 
Jack’s speech was based upon the 4-Way Test.   It was a remarkable presentation, sensitive, insightful, and revealing of Jack’s family and their sense of integrity, and how our Rotary 4-Way test reflected that.
His was a job truly well done, both in content and in skill of presentation !  We are proud to have him representing our Club in the speech contest !
Spoke 1/22/2015 Dan Affeldt 2015-01-23 00:00:00Z 0
Chamber of Commerce, After Hours Meeting Jennifer Grant 2015-01-22 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 1-8-2015

Posted by Bill Babineau on Jan 07, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
Called to order by: Garlan Hoskin
Garlan started the meeting after being urged on by the impatient mob at the back, at 12:19!  The off-key singing of “Rotary” stirred Garlan and Ernst to action, and we were on our way.
Opening Song: Rotary
 
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful
 
Invocation: Dan Affeldt
 
Song Leader:  Jim Shibles, short rendition of “Moonlight Bay”.  
 
Visiting Rotarians:
 
No visiting Rotarians.
 
 
Guests:
 
There were two dozen guests in attendance – The partners of member Rotarians.
 
 
Raffle: The draw was drawn out, Steve Christy couldn’t find his ticket, so then it was found that the number called was still on the table.  Another ticket was drawn, Steve was still looking for his ticket, until he finally found it was the same as the one drawn, for which he pulled the non-queen anyway.  If you weren’t at the meeting and follow that sequence, I have a reward for you. 
Willie was standing in for the missing Steve Whitman through all this.  Apparently Steve was stuck in Boston.
 
Announcements:
 
Thursday the 15th at 5:30 will be a Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours event hosted by our club at the Dwinell Room.  All club members are encouraged to attend, where Don M will present to the throng about what Rotary is and encourage interest in joining.  Beer, wine, and hors deuvres, will be served, no charge for anyone.   Email Don if you’re able to attend.
                Rotary Board of Directors meeting will be held next Tuesday the 13th, 5:30, at DHMC Heater Rd facility.
                Monday the 12th is the monthly meeting at Salt Hill, good for a make-up and some laughs and libations.
                January 29th will be a club forum, all committee chairs should be prepared to present.
                Jane Mason has been in the hospital with pneumonia but getting out today. 
 
Brags:
 
Ernst bragged that he and a couple others showed up on Christmas Eve to do the club’s duty of setting up for the Christmas Day dinner at Sacred Heart.  We should have paid him. 
 
Jim S announced that the speech contest will be held at the January 22 meeting, then bragged that he and Betsey have started square dancing and recommended it as good way to reduce weight.
 
Member-to-be Nate Miller bragged about a workshop to be held at Hypertherm to discuss planning for resiliency in the face of tragedy and disaster.  No charge but must preregister.
 
Rotary Minute: Steve Christy didn’t know what it was, didn’t know he was assigned to do it, but just happened to have in his pocket a synopsis by Paul Harris regarding the Philosophy of Service.  Not bad for off-the-cuff.
 
Speaker: Joanne Roberts, Superintendent of Schools, Lebanon School District  
 
Joanne’s first day was August 1, 2014; she was assistant superintendent for SAU 70, Hanover, before taking the helm here.  She feels she is strongly focused on curriculum development, which was her focus when in Hanover.  Her forte as an educator is Math and Science, as well as a background in Special Education.  She has her masters and PHD, and graduated one of her degrees at Plymouth State College, if not all. 
 
An early task for her was to survey all the teachers and middle through high school students about what priorities should be developed.  She believes in strong community partnerships and has proposed a Math Family Night to help grow math interest, as well as creating area business relationships through internships for students.
 
Most district administrative personnel are relatively new, but she feels that the team is strong which bodes well for the future.   The board has the budget for next year, a deliberative session is coming up the end of this month with the city-wide vote coming in March.  She seems to have a lot of positive energy, look for good things to come.
Spoke 1-8-2015 Bill Babineau 2015-01-08 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 12/11/2014

Posted by Jamie Whyte on Dec 10, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
Called to order by: President Garlan                    
 
Opening Song: Rotary, My Rotary ( we will sing this all this month)
 
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful
 
Invocation: Steve Christy
 
Song Leader: Don MacMeeken  Song: Waltzing Matilda    
 
Visiting Rotarians:
None
 
Guests:
John Weins
Marty Cook
 
Raffle: Suellen had no luck.
 
Announcements:
The Christmas party is December 18th at 6 PM in the Dwinell Room.  The menu was announced and sent to the membership by separate email. 
 
Polar Express will take place 12/13/14 and 12/14/14. In need of volunteers.
 
Brags:
Jane - 1) father is doing well; 2) won an award at work, an achievement medal; 3) happy Mike Weins is here
Jennifer - House in Enfield is under contract
Ernst - family is coming home
Rick - Airport hit 10,000 passengers
 
Rotary Minute: Rich Wallace discussed the 1998 year book and 75th anniversary
Speaker: Dennis conducted a powerpoint on the vision session. Then all committees met.
 
The meeting was adjourned with the reciting of the 4 way test.
 
Spoke 12/11/2014 Jamie Whyte 2014-12-11 00:00:00Z 0

Re-Send of Spoke!

Please review assignments.
Also note new events added to the calendar!
Re-Send of Spoke! Ron Carr 2014-12-03 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 10/30/2014 - Retrieved from San Diego!

Posted by Kevin Gould
 
 
 
 
Called to order:          Garlan Hoskin
 
Opening Song:           Rotary
 
Patriotic Song:           My Country Tis of Thee
 
Song Leader:             Rich Wallace               Song: Why I am not at work today!!
 
Visiting Rotarians:     None
 
Guest:                         Nancy Dumont
 
Raffle:                        Paul Tierney won the draw but did not get the Queen of Hearts.
 
Announcements:        Induction of Stephen Christy. Steve had been a member of the Club in prior years. Garlan expressed how Steve has always embodied Service Above Self and through his work at Mascoma Savings Bank has been able to make great contributions to the community that we live in.
 
Brags:  None
 
Rotary Minute:          Suellen Griffin spoke about RYLA — see following information
 
Speaker:                   Robert Baum was introduced by Paul Boucher. Robert "Rob" was employed at Lebanon College until it closed. Rob is in the process of creating the Lebanon Institute of Liberal Arts "LILA" and will make its home at the Lebanon Opera House.
 
RYLA originated in 1959 in Queensland, Australia, RYLA was created as a festival highlighting local youth organized in honor of a royal visit by Princess Victoria. Through
Rotarians' constant belief in the potential of youth, RYLA has since become an opportunity to help the next generation of leaders define themselves and expand their skills.
It was officially adopted by Rotary International (RI) in 1971, and has engaged Rotary clubs and districts around the world.
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is an intensive
training program, often a camp about a week long, that brings together youth and young adults, ages 14-30, nominated by local Rotary clubs to further develop character and leadership skills while exposing them to Rotary's values of service, high ethical standards, and peace. It is organized at the club, district, or multidistrict level.
This recognition offers the opportunity to build self-confidence, gain exposure to a variety of issues and people, meet active
community leaders, and learn valuable information and career skills. RYLA
can bring new energy to a Rotary district, inspire ideas for service, and develop future Rotarians
Each RYLA shares the following program objectives:
•    To demonstrate Rotary's respect and concern for youth
•    To encourage and assist young people in responsible and effective leadership
•    To foster continued and stronger leadership of youth by youth
•    To publicly recognize the many young people who are
rendering service to their communities as youth leaders
Group work is the cornerstone of any RYLA. It encourages young people to
voice their opinions, take initiative, and put their leadership skills into practice.
Spoke 10/30/2014 - Retrieved from San Diego! Kevin Gould 2014-11-21 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 11/20/2014

Posted by Mary Detsch on Nov 20, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
Called to order by:  Pres Garland Hoskins
Patriotic Song:  America
Piano Player:  Ernst Oidtmann
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
Invocation:  Westin Green
Song Leader:  Paul Tierney
Greeter:  Steve Whitman
Song:  Simple Gifts
Visiting Rotarians:  None
Guests:  None
Raffle:  #318 was picked:  Ticket belonged to Jamie Whyte and he didn't pick the queen.
Rotary Minute:  John Yacavone gave a testimony by Mike Higgins and how he came to be a Rotary member and how it impacted his life.
Announcements:  Service for Miriam Triosi will be this Sunday Nov 23 at 1:00 pm at Dartmouth Church of Christ in Hanover.  Ernst announced next Thurs he would be delivering food for the Haven for their Thanksgiving meal.  Service for Elaine Dates will be December 1, 2014 at 10:00 AM in Burlington at the Congregational Church of Burlington.  A sympathy card is being passed around.   Dennis Tobin will be speaking about the Lebanon Club Visioning session which was held on Saturday Nov 15 at DHMC on Dec 18, 2014. There will be NO Rotary Meeting next Thursday due to Thanksgiving.  Rotary of Lebanon Christmas Banquet will be held at Harvest hill at 6PM. 
 
Brags:  Jamie bragged about his sons in a performance and I didn't catch all he said.  Bruce said he has an open house for the Mascoma Green Way.
 
Speaker:   Mr. Tim Martin; Executive Director of Life Care at APD, Harvest Hill and Woodlands.  He has served in retirement communities for 38 years and has a love for the elderly.  Mr. Martin's focus is Woodlands.  After 16 years there is a change, there will be no entrance fee to enter Harvest Hill as a resident, just pay rent.  This change will effect how we market life care for seniors at APD, Harvest Hill, and Woodlands to achieve or objectives.  
 
Woodlands is our exceptional independent living senior adult community, located on the campus of Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital. It is a place where residents can embrace a healthy, active, worry-free lifestyle with peace of mind and the greatest level of flexibility possible to continue to live an independent life.
Mr. Martin invited us all to come and visit Woodlands and see for ourselves what a wonderful place this is.   A resident will take you on a tour of the facility. 
Residents enjoy meals prepared by a chef in their dining room and a continental  breakfast every morning.  There are planned activities and outings/field trips and social activities that cater to people with all types of interests and hobbies. 
 
Spoke 11/20/2014 Mary Detsch 2014-11-21 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 11/13/2014

Posted by Paul Tierney on Nov 16, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
(This one's from memory: notes misplaced!)
 
Called to Order By:                 Pres. Garlan
Opening Song:                        ROTARY
Patriotic Song:                        My Country Tis of Thee
Invocation:                             Ron Carr
Song Leader:                           Westin Greene
Song:                                       Happy Together
Guest:                                     Friend of Katherine Austin (Welcome back Katherine!!!)
Raffle:                                     No winner
Announcements:
Pres. Garlan –Be sure to attend Lebanon Club Visioning session at DHMC at 8:30 Saturday the 15th in auditoriums A & B
Brags:
Linda - bragged about Rick being in the paper.
 
Rotary Minute:                        Mary Detsche talked about RYLA
 
Speaker:  Dana Michalovic, new executive Director of Good Neighbor Health and Red Logan Dental Clinics talked about these free medical services for people 18 and older who are uninsured. Services are provided to Vermont and NH residents.
- See more at: Good Neighbor Health Clinic —www.goodneighborhealthclinic.org/
 
Dr. Peter Mason and Dr. Mangonello are longtime volunteers.
 
This writer was surprised that they do not offer services to those younger than 18.
 
In the past six months or so they have reduced the backlog of medical patients significantly. This may be a result of Obama Care. But its effect is uncertain. NH has recently accepted the Medicaid which will insure many people not previously insured, but many still may not sign up.
 
She is concerned that Obama Care may reduce the services provided to Residents and impact on their viability.
 
Dental requests are not forecast to decline as Medicaid does not cover dental services
Spoke 11/13/2014 Paul Tierney 2014-11-17 00:00:00Z 0

Miriam Triosi Service

The memorial service for Miriam will be held at the Church of Christ at Dartmouth College on Sunday, November 23rd at 1 p.m.
Miriam Triosi Service Garlan Hoskin 2014-11-15 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 11/6/2014

Posted by Marion Steiner on Nov 11, 2014
 
 
 
 
The Spoke
11-6-14
Called to Order By: Pres Garlan
Opening Song: ROTARY
Patriotic Song: My Country Tis of Thee
Invocation:  John Yacavone
Song Leader: Mary Detsch      Song: Happy Together
Guest: Carter Bish from RYLA
Raffle: Philip Rentz four of Clubs
Announcements:
Janie- Trumball Hall Troup- Fish Tales
Jennifer- Quick Silver fundraiser 11/8/14
Monday –make up at Salt Hill
Brags:
Linda- bragged about Rick being in the paper
Jennifer- Son turned 20
Dan- Had a birthday and gave a check for 60 dollars
Westin- The twins turned 11 weeks and are smiling and sleep thru the night.
Rotary Minute: Betsey talked about the History of the Foundation. November is Foundation Month.
Speaker:  Terry Knowles Assistant Director of Charitable unit at the Office of Attorney General NH. Also Lisa English came and she is the Director.
Terry talked about what’s New for Non Profits:
  • Reactive vs Planning- She is seeing nonprofit reacting to things and not planning for them.
  • Internal Control- She talked about enablement and how make sure that it does not happen.  Do a credit check on the treasurer; have them bring a bank statement to every meeting.
  • Data Breaches- a lot of companies are having data breaches.  She talked to us about how to protect ourselves at home. One of the websites is www. Techsoup.com.
  • Form 1023 Is 21 pages long now there is a form that is 1023Ez that is for non profits that will be making less them 50,000 and has less them 250 million is assets. 
  • The three most important things as a board member is 1. Show Up. 2. Ask questions. 3. Pay attention
Spoke 11/6/2014 Marion Steiner 2014-11-12 00:00:00Z 0

RYLA Award Winner!

Posted by Betsey Child on Nov 09, 2014
Carter Bish Completes Rotary Youth Leadership Award
 
Carter Bish, a Junior at Lebanon High School, was presented a RYLA certificate by Jim Shibles at the November 6 meeting of the Rotary Club of Lebanon. Carter was chosen by LHS because of his leadership potential, to attend the RYLA weekend leadership training event at Lyndon State College in June. He spoke to the Club and thanked them for the opportunity to bring his leadership skills to a higher level. 
 
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is an annual leadership program coordinated by Rotary Clubs around the globe for thousands of young people ages 14–30. These students are sponsored by Rotary Clubs to attend an event run by each club's district committee, with all of their expenses paid for by the club and the Rotary District. The three-day weekend camp includes include presentations, activities, and workshops that cover a variety of topics, with discussions and practice of leadership skills through teamwork.
 
RYLA aims to:
            Demonstrate Rotary's respect and concern for youth;
            Provide an effective training experience for selected youth and potential leaders;
            Encourage leadership of youth by youth;
            Recognize publicly young people who are rendering service to their communities.
 
Every RYLA program covers the following core topics:
            Fundamentals of leadership
            Ethics of positive leadership
            Importance of communication skills in effective leadership
            Problem-solving and conflict management
            Rotary's purpose and service to the community
            Building self-confidence and self-esteem
            Elements of community and global citizenship
 
RYLA Award Winner! Betsey Child 2014-11-10 00:00:00Z 0

Spark!'s first play production!!!

I'm writing to encourage you to attend Spark's first play production, entitled The Adventures of Sparky & The Fuddy Duddies on Sunday, November 23rd at 2pm at the Hartford High School Auditorium in WRJ.  It's a musical comedy that I wrote and directed and it would mean a lot to me for you to be there to see it.  It's family-friendly, heartwarming and guaranteed to put a smile on your face.  Our cast of Spark! participants have been working very hard to make this really special.
 
This is a major fundraiser for Spark! and we would love a full house, so please ask all your friends and family to join us..  Tickets are $15 each and on sale now by calling at 603-359-7116 or emailing me.  We accept checks or cash.  Please make checks payable to Spark! Community Center and mail to 31 Guyer Street, Lebanon, NH 03766.
 
Lisa M. Green
603-359-7116
Spark!'s first play production!!! Ron Carr 2014-11-09 00:00:00Z 0

Speaker's Committee 2014-2015 Plan

Posted by Ron Michaud
Speakers Committee FY'15 Plan
Goal: To provide speakers for each weekly Rotary meeting except club forums. Speakers should be scheduled who can provide new information.
Committee membership: Ron Michaud,Chair;Paul Boucher;Forest Cole;Steve Whitman ;Garlan Hoskin,ex officio
Time Period: July 1,2014 to June 30 2015 Months for which members are responsible:
 
July to December   Ron Michaud
January                   Paul Boucher
February                 Steve Whitman
March                      Forrest Cole
April                         Paul Boucher
May                          Steve Whitman
June                         Ron Michaud
 
Prepared by Ron Michaud,Chair
Speaker's Committee 2014-2015 Plan Ron Michaud 2014-11-04 00:00:00Z 0

New (!) Member Steve Christy

Posted by Betsey Child on Nov 03, 2014
 
We are all delighted to have former Rotarian Steve Christy back with us!
 
He has been a big supporter of our club whether an active member or not.
New (!) Member Steve Christy Betsey Child 2014-11-04 00:00:00Z 0

Check Presentation, Auction 2014 proceeds, to Upper Valley Smiles

Posted by Betsey Child on Nov 02, 2014
The Rotary Club of Lebanon Presents $10,000 Check
 
A check for $10,000 was presented to Nancy Dumont, Director of the Department of Community Health at Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital, at the Thursday, October 30, meeting of the Rotary Club of Lebanon.
Presenting the check were John Yacavone, Chairman of the Auction, and Garlan Hoskin, President of the Rotary Club of Lebanon.
The money, raised at Rotary’s recent annual public charity auction, will be used to supplement the Upper Valley Smiles program, a free dental health program for children kindergarten through grade 4, in the towns of Enfield, Canaan, Lebanon, and White River Junction elementary schools.
More than 1,900 children benefited from this program during the 2013-2014 school year. The program consists of oral health education, screenings, and preventive treatments for those who do not have a dentist. If a child needs further dental treatment, DuMont helps parents find a dentist.
Photo ID: Left to right: John Yacavone, Nancy Dumont and Garlan Hoskin
 
Check Presentation, Auction 2014 proceeds, to Upper Valley Smiles Betsey Child 2014-11-03 00:00:00Z 0

Keep some of our members in mind...

Posted by Marion Steiner

If any of you know of someone whose life would benefit from a call or card from the "Sunshine Girl", please let Marion Steiner know. She can be emailed at msteiner@lakesunbank.com or home at 603-826-0081.

Keep some of our members in mind... Marion Steiner 2014-10-28 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 10/23/2014

Posted by Jamie Whyte on Oct 26, 2014
 
 
 
 
Called to order by: Pres Garlan
 
Opening Song: ROTARY
 
Patriotic Song: My Country Tis of Thee
 
Invocation: Paul Boucher
 
Song Leader: Bruce Pacht     Song: What I’ll Do?
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Dick Weirwille
 
Guests:
Ben Pratson
 
Raffle: Paul Boucher Jack of Diamonds
 
Announcements:
Trumball Hall Troup – Fish Tale
 
 
Brags:
John Yacavone – Went to the Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina
Jamie Whyte – Alex (son) will be singing in chorus in the Amahl and Night Visitors
Jamie Whyte – Labrador retriever is back from 6 months of training and is doing well
Jim Shibles – He and Betsy went on a horse drawn carriage in Townsend VT and cheated the rain
Lorraine Morrison – Grandson turned one
 
Rotary Minute: N/A
 
Speaker: Individual committees met
Spoke 10/23/2014 Jamie Whyte 2014-10-27 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Lebanon - Spoke 10/16/2014

Posted by Suellen Griffin on Oct 16, 2014
Called to order by: President, Garlan Hoskin
 
Opening Song: R_O_T_A_R_Y
 
Patriotic Song: My Country Tis of Thee
 
Invocation: Garlan Hoskin
 
Song Leader: Jim Shibles      Song: Midnight Special
 
Visiting Rotarians:
 
None
 
 
Guests:
 
None
 
 
Raffle: Garlan Hoskin    Pulled a red Queen but unfortunately it was a diamond!!!!!!
 
Announcements:
 
On Saturday Nov. 15, 2014 there will be a Visioning Session for our club.  It will be held at DHMC, room TBD, from 8:30- 12:30.  Dennis Tobin will facilitate.  Please try to attend.  Garlan passed around a sign-up sheet.
 
There will be a club forum next week during our regularly scheduled meeting on Thursday at noon.  This is an opportunity for all committees to meet instead of trying to find another time to meet during the month.  The work of the committees is very important to the success of the club.  Please try to attend!
 
Brags:
 
Jean Flaherty-Wulpern announced that today was Kevin Gould’s birthday and the club sang Happy Birthday to him.
Rich Wallace bragged that the Valley News was awarded the 2104 newspaper of the year for both the daily and Sunday additions. 
Paul Tierney recognized John Yacavone, Jean Flaherty-Wulpern and all of the club members that worked on the Auction Committee and collected $1 from everyone present to donate to the club on their behalf.  Job well done!!!!
 
Rotary Minute: Jim Shibles  Provided an historical list of very accomplished Rotarians that could identified as mentors for present and future Rotarians.
 
Speaker: Rick Dyment     Director of the Lebanon Airport (LEB)
 
The airport is a $37M asset for the City of Lebanon and has a $1M budget.
 
You have many more choices flying to and from LEB than driving to competitive airports.
Passenger numbers at LEB and its partner airport BOS are increasing while competing airports are decreasing.
LEB is good for the Upper Valley and Lebanon businesses.  LEB has led the state in business flights for the last 5years.
LEB’s operating revenue and property tax revenue makes it a financial benefit to taxpayers.
Improving the City’s airport facilities and equipment is at minimal cost to taxpayers.  Taxes contribute $18,000 per year(<1%).
 
Lebanon Municipal Airport  Phone (603) 298-8878      Website: www.flyleb.com
Rotary Club of Lebanon - Spoke 10/16/2014 Suellen Griffin 2014-10-17 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Lebanon - Spoke 10/9/2014

Posted by Jim Shibles on Oct 09, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
Meeting was called to order by President Garlan Hoskin.
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful
Invocation: Betsey Child
Visiting Rotarians: None
Guests:
Nancy Dumont, APD Community Health Director (Smiles Program too)
Bartolo Governanti:   State Farm Insurance
Ernie Walker:  Intern with Ernst Oidtmann from Upper Peninsula, MI
 
Raffle: Linda Copp did not pull the Queen
 
Announcements:
Nancy Dumont profusely thanked the club for our Auction effort
Garlan reminded Committee Chairmen to have their committee reports ready for the board meeting on Oct 14.
Garlan reminded Board Members the Board meeting is at the Main DHMC building in Room 2B.
Garlan, too, thanked the Auction Committee for their hard work.
Don MacMeekin asked that we give the Auction Committee a well deserved round of applause, to which the club obliged.
 
Brags: Richard and Mary Detsch are now Grandparents
Ron Michaud told us of the outstanding speakers we have coming to our future meetings, Mark Scarano and John Roach.
 
Rotary Minute: Jean Flaherty-Wulpern read to us an inspiring poem written by Rotarian, Edgar Guest. The poem involved service and the meaningful feeling of working for a cause.
 
Speaker: John Higgins, CEO of the Ledyard Charter School
                       
John explained that LCS is an alternative school for disengaged students, or students who have trouble following mainstream education. The school focuses students to gain the need credits to get their diplomas. 
Dropout rates at LCS are extremely low. The school attracts many different professionals, organizations, and structured programs to keep students attention on learning and make the school experience interesting and meaningful.
Example: Phys. Ed classes may take place at Whaleback Ski Area or at Dartmouth’s Rope Class under the “Fit for Life” program.
Another Example: Local author, Dean Whitlock, may teach English classes.
Another Example:  Financial Advisor, Chris Rhim, may teach Economics.
 
Ledyard Charter School also gathers help from Hartford Tech.
 
One of the biggest challenges for LCS is funding.  70% of its monies come from the state, while 30% of their monies come from donations.  The school operates with an average of $5,400 cost for each student enrolled. This amount is 1/3 of the amount that Lebanon High gathers per student to operate.
The staff at LCS are allowed to “hand pick” students who wish to enroll, in interest of the best environment for learning.
 
Several other institutions offer help to LCS. One is Dartmouth College, who allows about 15 of their college students to mentor at LCS. A couple of others is the Byrne Foundation and  Mascoma Savings Bank, who assumedly offer financial gifts.
 
Questions from the club:
Where do students get gymnasium experience? Answer: CCBA.
How is success measured? Answer: Attendance improvement by as much as 95%. Skills for life that would not have been attained through “normal” schooling. Students have information to make career choices, where little motivation to find this information existed in “normal” schooling. Students are required to perform 30 hours of community service in the area of their interest, or chosen field.
What techniques are employed for deserved punishment? Answer: Unlike “normal” schools, which detain students, or expel students for a few days, LCS demands students to perform community service in areas of less desirable activities. Example: a few hours of custodial duty.
Who is the school custodian? Answer: John Higgins and his wife.
 
Rotary Club of Lebanon - Spoke 10/9/2014 Jim Shibles 2014-10-10 00:00:00Z 0

Kevin Pearce at Spark!

Lebanon, NH, September 15, 2014 -- The Spark! Community Center will host a talk with Kevin Pearce, former professional snowboarder, on Friday, October 17, 2014 at 6pm at its location at 75 Bank Street in downtown Lebanon, NH.  Pearce suffered a traumatic brain injury while attempting a Cab double cork in the halfpipe in Park City, Utah on December 31, 2009 at the peak of his Olympic training.  Now he is an internationally renowned sports commentator, motivational speaker, and advocate for education and research on traumatic brain injury.  He is also a Sports Ambassador for the National Down Syndrome Society.  His brother, David, who has Down Syndrome, will also speak at the event. 
The Pearce brothers are sons of world-renowned glassware designer Simon Pearce, who has had a glassblowing factory in Quechee, Vermont since 1981.  ThePearce brothers will talk about their lives, their 2013 HBO documentary film “The Crash Reel” and the social movement they have spearheaded that brings people together to connect, educate and empower people through a mindful approach that focuses on brain injury prevention, rehabilitation and brain health.  Refreshments will be provided.  A $10 donation is suggested per person
All proceeds will benefit The Spark! Community Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing social and educational opportunities for individuals with special needs throughout the Upper Valley.  Spark! believes in an integrated society where everyone is valued for their abilities rather than their disabilities.  Its core philosophy is that everyone has a hidden talent or gift worth sharing with the world -- a “spark” if you will.  Too often that spark is overlooked in people with disabilities, which is why a community center was created to help them reach their full potential while it strengthens their ties to the community. 
Spark! opened its doors on June 20, 2014 in the lower level of the former Lebanon Junior High School at 75 Bank Street and is open five days a week.  For more details about Spark!, please call 603-678-8619 or visit: www.sparkcommunitycenter.com.
For more information or interview requests, please contact:

Thanks,


--
Lisa M. Green
603-359-7116
Kevin Pearce at Spark! 2014-10-10 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 9/25/2014

Posted by Betsey Child on Sep 25, 2014
Kevin was "the Boss" at this week's meeting, as President Garlan was away. And Ernst is back leading us in song. We welcomed former member Richard Wierwille who was visiting the area and he stepped in and gave us his blessings.
Nate Miller was the guest of Steve Whitman. Nate is the Executive Director of the Upper Valley Lake Sunapee Regional Planning Commission. This organization guides, coordinates and promotes sound economic growth and development of this region, and maintains and implements a comprehensive regional plan. Visit their website at: www.uvlsrpc.org for more information.
Steve Whitman won the draw but not the still-elusive queen!
Steve Usle led us in an enthusiastic round of "Red River Valley".
The Rotary Minute took a Rotary Second as Kevin asked,"ˆ" What is this month?" Several members answered in unison - "Foundation Month!" Then he said, "What do you have to do?", Answer - "Pay $100!" . . . and that was the "Minute" in a nutshell.
John Yacavone, Auction Chair, reported on the progress of the days leading up to the Auction next Saturday ... handed out a few posters to put up ... gave us a pep talk and said things were going nicely, but that we needed to all finish our jobs!
Steve Usle reported on the successes of some of the Teams. The incentive program seemed to work, as many teams had reached the goal of either $2,000 or 15 items, and therefore, got to place the button on their specific teeth. You can see which teams have reached the goal by using the list on the right-hand side of the display. Many thanks, Steve, for this inventive incentive!
Our beloved member, Kathy Austin, is back in the hospital, having fallen recently. I just spoke with her briefly at DHMC. She said she probably was woozy due to some kind of infection, she therefore fell and sustained a lacerated head sporting three metal pieces; a broken bone in her upper arm, and broken ribs #s 3 & 4. She is NOT a happy camper at the moment. She is planning to go to APD on Monday if all goes well, and remain there to recuperate for about two weeks. Our own Dr. Ernst will be in charge once she gets to APD. She's pretty uncomfortable at this time so probably once she gets to APD we can check and see if she wants company. We all send our love and get well wishes, Kathy!!!
And our speaker this week was an amazing man, Gani D. Abazi, MD, MPH. He is one of Rotary's amazing success stories, to say the least! He has been a friend of Steve Whitman's for many years, and Steve brought him to speak with us. Thank you so much, Steve. It was an inspiring half-hour.
Accompanying Gani was Filloreta Gashi. For further information on this dear friend of his, please visit: http://pad.jjconline.net/2013/05/04/faculty-profile-filloreta-gashi/
Those of you who were fortunate enough to have been there, might still be reeling from the effects of the presentation. I have never experienced our room be so quiet for so long. There was not a peep from anyone as this man was speaking of his experiences. It's difficult to put into words, but what you should know is that Rotary International is a far-larger and further-reaching entity than we can imagine. All of our efforts of work, support and funding to support this amazing organization are so well-worth it that you can't believe it.
You could just feel the passion, the joy, and hopefulness as he spoke about his experience in first learning about Rotary, being able to accomplish wonderful progress because of Rotary, and finally, having made such wonderful connections through Rotary, he wants to use his unique position to somehow effect positive changes in the world. Dr. Abazi said that this support was originally launched with the Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship Program. He was the first Ambassador from Kosova.
I confess I was so caught up on the presentation that I forgot to write much down. But, I have gathered some information from a few sources to whet your appetite. Just google Gani S. Abazi, and learn more about this talented, unselfish man, who despite unspeakable circumstances in his life, has overcome much to be where he is today, and is on the road to helping people in a way none of us even can know at this point.
If you would please go to this website, it will tell you a more comprehensive story of his incredible journey: http://www.wellesleywestonmagazine.com/summer10/dept_good_works.htm.
 
Please also visit the Gift of Life site at: www.giftoflifeinternational.org/ which starts out this way:
    "We are a Rotarian-based organization that over the past 4 decades has helped more than 17,000 children from emerging countries receive treatment for their heart disease.  These children have come from 67 different countries and otherwise would not have been treated. There are over 70 Gift of Life programs throughout the world. The majority of these programs are based in Rotary Clubs or Rotary Districts on 5 continents."
There is just so much to say, but the bottom line is that because of Rotary, a gifted, hopeful man has been granted the opportunity to do very good things in this world. He is hoping to spend a few years at DHMC continuing his experiences and training.
The final words of his presentation were these: "Rotary gathers people with very good hearts!" And he is ever so grateful. And we are very grateful for Gani.
Kevin closed the meeting with the Club saying the Four-Way Test.
P. S. Remember to visit the Lebanon Airport this Saturday from 10-5 and enjoy the Chamber's event of Wings and Wheels. Classic planes and autos, food, fun for all. Help celebrate Lebanon and the Airport. Rotary will have a booth there.
Spoke 9/25/2014 Betsey Child 2014-09-26 00:00:00Z 0
Auction 2014 Ron Carr 2014-09-25 00:00:00Z 0
Wings and Wheels 2014-09-23 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 09/18/2014

Posted by William Koppenheffer
 
 
 
 
Called to order by: Pres Garlan       
 
Opening Song: ROTARY
 
Patriotic Song: My Country Tis of Thee
 
Invocation: Ron Carr
 
Song Leader: Bruce Pacht     Song: In the Good Old Summertime
 
Visiting Rotarians:  none
 
 
Guests:
Jo Austine from The Kiely Agency
 
 
Announcements:
Jen Grant  Film showing at Woodstock on oral hygiene              
Ron M   update on Mike Weins
 
Brags:
Paul T—son got married
Bruce P—the district governors work vey hard in India and their word is law
Don MacM---took his wife to Niagara Falls—her first time, no report on who he went on his other time
 
Rotary Minute:
Ron Carr—gave a rundown on activities of local rotary clubs
 
Speaker:
No speaker today—Steve W gave an introduction to the club committees and the use of Clubrunner.  The rest of the meeting was devoted to Committee meetings.
 
Submitted by: William Koppenheffer
 
Spoke 09/18/2014 William Koppenheffer 2014-09-23 00:00:00Z 0

Dr. Gani Abazi - speaker on 9/25/2014

Over forty Kosovar children with congenital heart defects have been cured in hospitals in the USA, Israel, South Korea and Italy. The assistance is being provided by doctors, professors and American humanitarian activists, who have created a humanitarian corridor for the people of Kosova which provides help in the area of health and medical education needs.
 
A key person who has supported the majority of these projects is the Governor of Rotary International for Boston area, Klaus Hachfeld, as well as professors from Harvard University and its hospitals. The person that initiated those projects and serves as a liaison between the U.S. and Kosova, is a medical doctor from Kosova, Gani Abazi who has been associated with "Boston Children's Hospital," one of Harvard teaching hospitals.
 
Abazi said that this support was originally launched with the Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship Program, then by establishing the program of Gift of Life for Kosova. Dr. Gani Abazi will speak to us on Thursday.
Dr. Gani Abazi - speaker on 9/25/2014 2014-09-21 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Lebanon - Spoke 9/11/2014

Posted by Rich Wallace on Sep 10, 2014
 
 
 
 
Called to order by: Garlan
 Opening Song: Rotary
 Patriotic Song: My Country Tis of Thee
 Invocation: Paul B.
 Song Leader: Marion             Song: The Coke Commercial Song   
 Visiting Rotarians:
Bill Secord - Riverside
Kathy Carrol – New London
Guests:
None
 Raffle: Bill B won the chance but did not get it!
 Announcements:
John Y – Rotary will have a table at Wings & Wheels event – needs volunteers to man the booth; Smile buttons are available; Go get donations.
Garlan – Riverside sponsoring trip for SPARK to go to Loudon on Sept. 27 – could use a few drivers; RI webinar coming up about Club Visioning will get info out.
(Oct 8 - PERCEPTION VS. REALITY: CLUB EVALUATION AND VISIONING) https://www.rotary.org/en/learning-reference/webinars/upcoming
Ron C. – Rotary groups set some Guiness world records at Sydney Annual Meeting
Brags:
Ron M. – Paul T’s son Ryan getting married on Saturday, club has heard many stories of Ryan as he has grown up; Grandson is an amateur golfer but won $2,700 in tournament.
Rick D – Son has been hired by Simon Pearce; commented on Ron C. shirt (had to be there)
Ron C. – Grand-daughter in Costa Rica teaching a course
Jim S. – Hired new employee for his business.
Rotary Minute: Ron M. – Talked about RI and it takes time for new members to find out what they do and are.
Speaker: Paul Coates & Frank Gould – Mascoma River Greenway
Paul and Frank gave us an update on the progress and plans for the Mascoma River Greenway.
 
Rotary Club of Lebanon - Spoke 9/11/2014 Rich Wallace 2014-09-11 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Lebanon Spoke 9/04/2014

Posted by Jon Blodgett on Sep 09, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
Editors note: Sorry for late arrival: email problem!!
 
Meeting called to order: President Garlan
Opening Song: Rotary
Patriotic song: My Country Tis of Thee
Song Leader: Willie Koppenheffer Song: This Land is Your Land
Guest: Steve Christy, Shana and new family members Tucker & Jackson
Greene.
Raffle: Katherine picked the wrong card
Announcements: Steve Usle is the first with his button on the BIG
SMILE!
Paul Tierney: sell your tickets or face the wrath of Paul!
Jim Shibles is looking for help.(late breaking news, Jim hired someone

Brags: Garlan has 17 donations to date.
Paul T paid $100.00 for his birthday to the Foundation.
Paul T son Ryan is getting married.
Steve Usle attend a Lady Antebellum concert and is now a C & W fan.
Willie Koppenheffer & son Ben went to Ireland for a Penn State football
game and some tourist time with father & son.

Rotary Minute: Bill Babineau explained Global Grants to us and use of the
water wells in Ghana that our club helped with to eradicate the Guinea
worm.

Speaker: District Governor Bruce Pacht presented us with a rather
amusing life history and how Bruce arrived to the DG post. I hope we
can talk Bruce into posting his note of his talk on our website.

Jon
Rotary Club of Lebanon Spoke 9/04/2014 Jon Blodgett 2014-09-10 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 8-28-2014

Posted by Linda Copp on Aug 30, 2014
 
 
 
 
Called to order by: Garlan Hoskins
 
Opening Song: Rotary acapella
 
Patriotic Song:
 
Invocation: Jamie Whyte           
 
Song Leader: Song:
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Jesse and Ed visiting from FL
 
Guests:
 
Raffle: No winner today
 
Announcements:
Garlan and Heidi are saving to travel to the Convention in Brazil. Any others?
Vote on By-laws after Suellen made clarifications – passed
New  board members at-large: Jean, Suellen and Jennifer
Auction up-date for John and Steve: LL Bean, Mascoma Savings Bank and APD giving generously
Byrne Foundation donation of $6,000 – thank you Ron
Garlan and Betsey will lunch at Hanover Rotary to sell tickets
Lorraine reported $1,400 to Foundation from Pie Sale
Rotary will have a booth at Wings and Wheels on Sept 27, 10 to 5, Lebanon Airport
 
Brags:
Paul - On line high school opening on Sept 3
Rich - children’s birthday
Lorraine’s birthday.
Don and wife’s 45th and
Forrest and wife’s wedding anniversaries.
Garlan after 4 hours with 3 yr old grandson is tired!!
 
Rotary Minute: No minute
 
Speaker: Carol Dunn Artistic Director of Northern Stage. Carol shared her experience as actress, lecture at Dartmouth College, artistic director of New London Barn Playhouse and the up-coming season at Northern Stage.  And the building of the new theater in White River Jct.
Spoke 8-28-2014 Linda Copp 2014-08-31 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 8-21-2014

Posted by Don MacMeekin on Aug 20, 2014
 
 
 
 
Called to order by: Garlan Hoskin   
 
Opening Song: Rotary          
 
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful
 
Invocation: Jon Blodgett
 
Song Leader:             Song: Sloop John B
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Jessie Turner
Dave Nichols
 
Guests:
Beverly Wakeley
Emma Peterson
 
Raffle: Dave Nichols was not a winner
 
Announcements:
By Laws Vote Next Week
 
 
Brags:
 
 
Rotary Minute: The Ladies of Rotary Read the lyrics to a song written by Canadian singer/songwriter, Helen Austin.  The song commemorated 25 years for women in Rotary
 
Speaker: Paul Tierney – Classification talk and slide show
  • Grew up in Woodstock VT a rural farming community
  • Went through High School and College then the Tuck School.
  • Was in ROTC so after school headed into the army and Vietnam, many scars were inflicted during his time.
  • Returned from Vietnam and exited the Army.  Became a  CPA and entrepreneur in the local area starting several businesses.
  • Has spent many years as a volunteer and board member for the Listen Services organization.
  • He has been married for 37 years and is the father of three children.
 
Ernest Oidtmann
  • Been a Rotarian since 1983, brought in by Alan Hirsh
  • Had always wanted to be a Rotarian as he has many family ties to Rotary in Holland.
  • He was born in 1946 in Holland.
  • He provided a brief view of Holland during and following the war. The fact that food was rationed to residents.  Residents were restricted to 900 cal. per day per person which was lower than the 1200 calories provided to prisoners of war.
  • He met Linda during his time as a research assistant at the University of British Columbia, supposedly doing cancer research.  Actually working as a janitor in the lab.
  • Linda was the bright spot as she liked the Beethoven concerts, hiking and she had a car.
 
Submitted by: Don MacMeekin
Spoke 8-21-2014 Don MacMeekin 2014-08-21 00:00:00Z 0

Assignments 8/21/2014

Posted by Ron Carr on Aug 20, 2014
Please remember to let Ron Carr know of any planned absences!
 
 
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Bill Koppenheffer    Song Leader
Jon Blodgett           Invocation
Linda Copp             Rotary Minute
Jean Flaherty-Wulpern  Spoke
Ron Michaud           Greeter
 
 
 
 
 
Assignments 8/21/2014 Ron Carr 2014-08-21 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 8/14/2014

Posted by Jane Mason
 
 
 
 
 
SPOKE for 14 August 2014
 
 
Call to order by President Garlan at 12:15 with a rousing rendition of R-O-T-A-R-Y. After the Pledge of Allegiance and patriotic song, "America the Beautiful," Rich Wallace offered the invocation.
 
Lunch was delicious.  Thanks to John Y. for suggesting adding the spaghetti sauce to the meatloaf to simulate a giant flat meatball.
 
SECRETARY'S INTROS
 
Economics Quiz: None this week, but we learned some stats about the Gross Debt and other happy topics.
 
Visiting Rotarians: Ed "Raj" Rajsteter, Lebanon Riverside Club and Director of Headrest.
 
Guests: Westin's lovely wife, Shana, plus their two children waiting to meet the world.
            (Editor's Note: Welcome to Jackson and Parker, born the very next day!)
 
Draw: Phase I won by Secretary Steve W. himself, Phase II lost with the wrong card.
 
SONG
 
Don't Fence Me In led by songleader, Past President Jon.
 
ANNOUNCEMENTS
 
John Y. and Steve U. discussed the new incentive program for Auction solicitations—for every report from a business (whether you get a donation or not), you receive one Fun Dollar. For every business donating, you receive two Fun Dollars.  Fun Dollars may then be used toward a ticket to the event itself, or toward a Silent Auction item.
 
John Y. reminded everyone to let Jane know of ALL donations pledged, mailed, or collected so far so they may be entered into the database. Also, ALL items must be turned in to Jane soon for pictures, validation, tagging, etc.  As soon as possible!
 
Garlan reported that Paul Shannon's memorial service the previous Saturday was a very nice tribute and reminded us that donations in his name can be made to the Lebanon Rotary Club.
 
Reminder about the Lake Sunapee Boat Cruise on August 20th.
 
Reminder about the Fisher Cats baseball game on August 23rd; $12 per ticket (send to Bruce P.) and take your own car.  The Fisher Cats (a Toronto Blue Jay's farm team) will be playing the Red Sox AA team, the Portland Red Sox. Our own District Governor Bruce's singing group, the North Country Chordsman, will be singing the National Anthem.  $4 of every ticket will be contributed to Polio Plus.
 
Paul T. distributed packets containing 5 Auction tickets to all members.  Money MUST BE TURNED IN by September 27th.
 
ROTARY MINUTE
 
Willie K. spoke about Rotary conception in 1905, and how Paul Harris became its first president in 1910.  Current requirements to become an RI president include a year as club president, a year as district governor, and a year as a member of the trustees. Paul Harris was the only RI president to serve twice.
 
BRAGS
 
Ernst's picture finally made the front page of something: the newsletter for the Upper Valley Ship Modeler's Guild.  He was even referred to as one of "Three Handsome Dudes"!
 
Steve U. bragged about his daughter's YouTube video "Dunk for ALS" to raise money for that worthy cause.
            (Editor's Note: According to ESPN, ALS donations are up over 400%!)
 
The Martian paid $5 for finally completing his Eludium Q-36 Explosive Space Modulator, but then wasn't certain if it passed the 4-Way Test.  (This is a check to see if people are really reading...)
 
PROGRAM
 
Suellen introduced our guest speaker, Ricardo St. Hilaire, a criminal justice attorney. His bio can be read here: http://culturalheritagelaw.org/sthilaire
 
Detailed information about the Knights of Columbus may be found at their website, http://www.kofc.org/
 
Highlights from the presentation:
 
  • A Catholic organization founded by Father Michael McGiveryly in New Haven Connecticut.
  • Brotherhood organization but has affiliated service organizations for women.
  • There are 2,000,000 K of C members world-wide.
  • There are over 16,000 councils (as opposed to "club"), then newest one in South Korea.
  • K of C provides financial and volunteer service to everyone, especially veterans.
  • Last year in the U.S., K of C dontated $170,000,000 and 70,500,000 hours volunteer work.
  • Known for their "feathery hats and capes."
 
ADJOURN
 
Don M. let us in the 4-Way Test as we adjourned.
Spoke 8/14/2014 Jane Mason 2014-08-21 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 7-17-2014

 
 
 
 
Called to order by: Garlan Hoskin
 Opening Song: ROTARY
 Patriotic Song: My Country Tis of Thee
 Invocation: Garlan Hoskin
 Song Leader: Jane Mason     Song: Home on the Range
 Visiting Rotarians:
None
 Guests:
None
 Raffle: Paul Tierney guesses Club Secretary Steve Whitman's economic question correctly to pick ticket.  Bill Babineau unable to find Queen of Hearts.
 Announcements:
 Ernst reminded members who were working on the River cleanup project to meet at the Skate Park in West Lebanon (where breakfast is being served by the Hanover Rotary Club).  Volunteers will be assigned areas for cleanup at that time.  Volunteers meet at CCB for post cleanup lunch. 
Garlan reminded members that our next meeting is being held at Garlan's home (President's BBQ). 
Garlan also reminded those who have not done so to pay for the tickets associated with the 4th of July Pie event.
D.G. Bruce Pacht talked about the new banner which will reside in our Club throughout the year that Bruce serves as District Governor.
Bruce also spoke of his recent visits to various Clubs within the District.  He offered observations on the Rotary event he recently attended in CA, and mentioned an upcoming celebration (100 years?) by the Sherbrooke Rotary Club.
Betsey announced the gift to Jon Blodgett as a Thank You for all his efforts on behalf of the Club.
Garlan announced the resignation of Carla Skinner and Jay Hutchins.
 
 
Brags:
 
Jennifer indicated that her daughter arrived safely in Sweden where she is visiting her grandparents.
Paul bragged about his daughter's wedding.
Rick bragged about recent outdoor recreation he shared with his son, and pre-announced the imminent arrival of his first granddaughter.
 
 
Rotary Minute: Steve Usle talked about the importance of teamwork (especially as related to the upcoming auction).
 
Speaker: Steve Usle and Jane Mason spoke briefly about the Auction.  As there was a computer glitch, Garlan is allocating a few minutes of the July 31 meeting to the Auction.
 
Spoke 7-17-2014 Steven Usle 2014-07-25 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Lebanon Spoke 7-10-2014

Posted by Ron Carr
 
 
 
 
Date: 7/10/2014         
 
Called to order by: Pres-Elect Kevin
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful
 
Invocation: John Yacavone
 
Song Leader: Betsey Child   Song: I’m Getting Married In The Morning (for Marion…unfortunately not here)
 
Visiting Rotarians:
None, altho Speaker Greg Lewis is a former Rotarian!
 
Guests:
None
 
Raffle: Willie got the King of Diamonds
 
Announcements:
  1. President’s picnic July 24 at Garlan’s house
  2. Board of Directors meeting July 16
  3. Mascoma River cleanup July 19: there are 12 sections and we need leaders for each section. There will be a sign-up table at the farmers market. If you haven’t signed up as a volunteer, then you owe a fine: paid to Lorraine.
  4. Betsey commented that lunch for the cleanup will be from Mickey’s, which will provide wraps: water cookies and possibly a watermelon will also be provided.
  5. Please remember to turn him funds for Piscean tickets: again if you did not sell them, you still owe the money.
  6. Jane requested any donations that had been received should be given to her for inventory.
  7. Suellen noted A West Central Behavioral Health class for Mental Health First Aid will be held on July 25, 8 AM to 5 PM.
 
Brags:
  1. Betsey noted, with tears in her eyes, that cloud nine is up for sale: does anyone need a project car?
  2. Paul Tierney noted that “Phantom Carol” and he had been married 38 years as of July 2.
  3. Ernst commented that a big tree fell down in his yard but fortunately missed anything important: he also has two ship models on display at Dartmouth Hitchcock.
 
Rotary Minute: Dennis spoke of all of the educational opportunities available in Rotary four leadership training
 
Speaker: Greg Lewis, city manager of Lebanon, was introduced by Ron Michaud.
Ron made a number of interesting comments about grades service in the military during the about: Greg was awarded two bronze stars and airmail, a presidential unit citation, and some other awards that your scribe missed. Greg also has managerial experience in municipalities much larger than Lebanon: he was in charge of a County containing 3 million residents.
 
Greg believes in pro active government, not reactive. He has a TV show on CATV, which reviews a city department in each shop.
He advocates for direct input to government: he wants to emphasize the LebAlert function, which will send bulletins to those sign-up informing of emergencies, public safety concerns and other matters of interest to residents and to persons employed in Lebanon. Anyone can sign up at http://alert.lebnh.net/
 
The city maintains a website at http://www.lebnh.net/. One of the features is AskLeb: users may ask questions, or leave comments through this option.
 
Greg provided a handout titled presentation of City of Lebanon Outcomes and Work Plan 2014 – 2016.
That handout is available on our website in the downloads section.
 
Greg has a constant central message, consisting of the following points
  • Infrastructure: Input from the Public Is Needed
  • Public Safety
  • People
 
He has implemented a Citizens Academy: there are 27 graduates from the current session: the goal is to have 30 graduates in each of the next three years.
He will have no meetings and City Hall: he scheduled meetings at locations that are appropriate to the purpose of the meeting. The goal is to include more people and have them on-site.
This is tied to a concept of Villages that he would like to maintain. He sees the definition of a Village as any particular group of people or businesses that have a common purpose.
 
There is also an economic development group, which is attempting to determine what is necessary for economic vitality. The book includes our own Paul Tierney, Paul Boucher, and Steve Whitman. They will be visiting Keene soon to review their development model.
 
Slayton Hill until repairs are out for bid, and are anticipated to be finished either by the end of the year or early next year.
The franchise with Comcast is under review, and has been for three years. The original franchise consisted of one page. The proposed franchise is approaching 50 pages. It seems he Comcast is having difficulty making decisions.
There are four union negotiations in progress this year. Greg is hoping for a standard platform to all four contracts. Three of the unions seem to be close to this platform, and the fourth is getting close.
Personnel policies will be written rewritten this year: a consultant will be brought in to assist in this process.
Hiring of a second in command for public works is close to being finalized.
Police and fire resources are doing a good job, but are strained.
The airport will also have a new master plan developed.
Human services department has changed their service delivery system, and is working closely with nonprofits.
The two libraries are very popular, and are 25% funded by public donations.
A Friends of Recreation organization is also being set up looking for similar donations.
CSO number nine (separation of water and sewer) will be finished this summer.
CSO number 10 will then be started. Both of these have leaned heavily on the capital improvements fund. When these projects are finished, the capital improvements fund began be utilized for other purposes.
 
A question from the floor asked about the situation with the Lebanon high school hirings.
Greg responded that the city manager has no authority over the schools: however he must work together school board to create a final city budget.
 
Additional information may be found at:
 
City of Lebanon: http://www.lebnh.net/
 
 
 
Lebanon Citizen Academy: http://academy.lebnh.net/
 
 
New Lebanon Honors its Veterans Web Page: http://www.lebnh.net/home/about-lebanon/lebanon-veterans
 
Rotary Club of Lebanon Spoke 7-10-2014 Ron Carr 2014-07-11 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 6/26/14

Posted by David Robinson
The Spoke
Newsletter of the Rotary Club of Lebanon, New Hampshire
 
 
Date: 6/26/14   
 
Called to order by: Jon Blodgett, President (on his last day as president)
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: O Beautiful for Spacious Skies
 
Invocation: Paul Boucher                
 
Song Leader: Jim Shibles   Song: Good Night Irene
 
Visiting Rotarians: none
     
     
 
Guests:
Veronica Giguere
     
     
 
Raffle: Paul Boucher did not draw the queen
 
Announcements:
Ernst-Reminded us of the Mascoma River Clean-up on July 19th; invited people to volunteer to head a post; Hanover Rotary Club provides breakfast; event is on rain or shine; every Rotarian is needed to work; if not working, make $100 contribution
Ron Michaud- turn in to Bill Babineau $35 per Rotarian for 5 tickets sold at $7 each; if more tickets are needed, contact Ron Michaud
     
     
     
 
Brags:
Marion Gagne: now married as of June 14; married name is Mrs. Charles Steiner.
     
     
     
 
Rotary Minute: none
 
Speaker: Club's annual ethics award presented to Heather Clow, Executive Director of Lebanon Opera House, honored for reviving theater presentations there and for profitable programming. 
 
Rotarian of the year awareded to Betsey Child and Jim Shibles
 
Jon Blodgett honored with congratulatory greeding card for 2 years of presidency; also with monogrammed shirt noting 2 years
 
Ron Michaud led discussion on speaker programs for this new Rotary year. Should we have political speakers?  If so, difficulty of giving equal time to speakers representing opposing sides.  Several members recommend no political speakers at all. Non profit speakers should not just plead for funds.
 
Next week (Thurs July 3) there will be no Rotary lunch meeting because of the Pie sale the following day.
 
On Thursday July 10, the speaker will be Lebanon City Manager Greg Lewis.  In preparation, begin to think about questions for him.
     
 
Submitted by: David Robinson
Spoke 6/26/14 David Robinson 2014-06-26 00:00:00Z 0

RGHF History of fight against polio

This story, from Rotary Global History Fellowship, is available in full in Download Files on the front page of the web site: since it is 30 pages it is impractical to display it all here.
 
Well worth reading!!! Thanks to Bruce Pacht to providing this, altho any member can subscribe to these thru Rotary.org (hint...hint)
RGHF History of fight against polio ron carr 2014-06-24 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 6/12/14

Posted by Philip Rentz
The Spoke
Newsletter of the Rotary Club of Lebanon, New Hampshire
 
 
Date: 6/12/14   
 
Called to order by: Jon Blodgett, President
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: Star Spangled Banner
 
Invocation: Dennis Tobin                 
 
Song Leader: Paul Boucher   Song: Polly Wolly Doodle
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Carla Skinder
     
     
 
Guests:
Melinda Blodgett
     
     
 
Raffle: Ernst had the winning ticket and pulled the seven of hearts
 
Announcements:
Ron C.-Is having knee surgery and has delegated his Club Runner duties to Westin Greene until he returns
Suellen-Reminded us that the Pie Event is July 4th, each member has 5-tickets to sell (or buy), send money and stubs to Bill K.
Dennis T.-Every member needs to contribute 2-pies, sign-up sheet circulating, deliver pies to the Senior Center 7/3 from 5-7 pm, or 7/4 from 8-9am, or bring to Jacques Market 7/2.
Dennis T. also spoke about the Young African Leaders Initiative fellowship being held at Dartmouth this summer and the need for host families from Friday 6/27 to Sunday 6/29. Contact Dennis
Bill K.-Read letter of thanks from Nicholas Dube who received a renewable scholarship and will be in his Junior year at UVM this fall.
Ernst-Reminder us of the Mascoma River Clean-up on July 19th, sign-up or donate $100 to the effort. Jim S.-Gave us an update on the youth report and student exchange.
Besty C.-Modeled the new Rotary shirts with bold lettering ‘Rotarian at work’ on the back and the spoke logo on the front, also presented a card to Bruce Patch who will become our District Governor at Changeover     
     
     
 
Brags:
Jon: Celebrated 43 years of marriage by bringing his wife Melinda to the meeting today.
Paul T.- Has been with Listen for 15-years, 50-million without high school diplomas, many are poor, has started an on-line private High School and recently received $5,000 in contributions.
     
     
     
 
Rotary Minute: Bruce Patch talked about ethics in Rotary, in particular the 4 principals defined by the ‘Object of Rotary’.
 
Speaker: Classification Talks were given by new members Carla Skinder and Philip Rentz.  Carla is from Natick, Mass., received her BS in Nursing from Simmons College and Masters from Boston University. Carla currently lives in Meriden with her partner Steve Talyor and is the Administrator of the Woodlands independent living community for seniors at Alic Peck Day Hospital. She is a former member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives. Carla is on the Board of NH Charitable Foundation and is involved in several other non-profit organizations. Carla has traveled the world, spent time in Thailand, hiked Kilimanjaro, and recently acquired a kayak.  Carla is a Rotarian and we are happy to have her transfer from Newport. 
 
Philip Rentz also gave his Classification Talk. Originally from Ithaca, NY, Philip has lived in West Lebanon with his wife Catherine and 3-children for 23-years. He worked in Randolph, VT until last year when he started at Service Credit Union as Business Development Officer where his is responsible for commercial loans. Previously Philip worked at Randolph National Bank as a commercial loan officer for 16 years. Philip is on the Board of the New England Transportation Institute and Museum, he is president of the White River Jct Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society. He enjoys hiking and sailing.
     
 
Submitted by: Philip Rentz
Spoke 6/12/14 Philip Rentz 2014-06-13 00:00:00Z 0
Board of Directors Dinner at Jessies 2014-06-13 00:00:00Z 0
Changeover Reminder! ron carr 2014-06-11 00:00:00Z 0

Prudent Living Train Photos

What a great gathering at LaValley's.  On the left side of our home page, you can check out the photos of the remarkable Prudent Living train.
Prudent Living Train Photos 2014-06-09 00:00:00Z 0

Spark! & the Rotary Pie Sale

Spark! will be hosting a 4th of July Star Spangled Celebration!. 
 
The Rotary Clubs of Lebanon will be having their 2nd Annual Pie Sale from 10:00 to 2:00 pm that day at the Senior Center and they have invited Spark! to host a fundraising event in the parking lot at the Senior Center during that time.  
 
From 9am to 1:30 pm, Spark! will be in front of the Lebanon Senior Center having a huge community yard sale.   We invite you to bring a table and sell some of your items with us and consider giving us half the proceeds for this fundraiser.  The more the merrier.  
 
Then from 2:00 - 5:00 pm, we will host some outdoor games at the ballfield at Spark! i.e. croquet, horseshoes, bocce ball, three legged races, and much more!  Lots of wholesome fun for everyone of all ages and abilities!  
 
Then from 7:00 - 9:00 pm, we'll have a Star-Spangled Dance!  Everyone is invited to everything!  Please help us spread the word.  Click here for a flyer that you can share with friends:  http://www.sparkcommunitycenter.com/4th-of-july-2014/
 
Thank you for all your support!  See you soon.
 
Lisa & John
Spark! Community Center, Inc.
Spark! & the Rotary Pie Sale ron carr 2014-06-09 00:00:00Z 0
Bakers Crossing photos! Jim Shibles 2014-06-04 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 5/29/2014

Posted by Dan Affeldt
 
 
The Spoke
Newsletter of the Rotary Club of Lebanon, New Hampshire
 
 
Date: May 29, 2014
 
Called to order by: Prez Jon
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: The Star Spangled Banner – a Cappella led by Jim Shibles
 
Invocation: Ron Carr
 
Song Leader: James & Jamie [team effort]   Song: Row Row Row Your Boat [as a round]
 
Visiting Rotarians:
None
 
Guests:
None
 
Raffle: Steve W. had the winning ticket, but not the winning card Sorry Steve!
 
Announcements:
Jim Shibles announced the selection of the Scholarship recipient from Lebanon High School, Dawn Plomb who will be attending UVM to pursue an RN Degree, among other goals she has set for herself
Betsey Child will be following up with Cori Sandoe to see if we can again, as a Club, help her with some yard work
Next week our own Steve Usle will be our speaker, and apparently train engineer, as we meet at LaValley’s to hear about Prudent Living, and get to see an amazing model train layout
A planning meeting for the Mascoma River Clean up will follow the meeting at LaValley’s
Brags:
Ron Carr bragged that the Bowdoin who is the namesake of the schooner featured in last week’s meeting, was a Rotarian!
Nick Troisi bragged about their grandchild who just received a BS in Biology from Bard College
President Jon bragged that only a few meetings left in his tenure as our Club’s [I think] only back to back president
Rotary Minute: Phil Rentz shared some details on the upcoming Rotary International Convention in Australia Take a moment to look it up online, 18,000 Rotarians from around the world in one place at one time 
 
 
 
SpeakerS:  From Spark and Fast Roads [NH] & EC Fiber [VT]
We had two this week – thanks to some “aggressive scheduling”  
 
Lisa Green and John Fenley, co-founders of “Spark” is a new community center for adults with special needs is just opening in Lebanon.
 
Spark is designed for adults with special needs, their families and caregivers, and “caring members of the Upper Valley,” per Lisa. It aims to fill a need in the community and “ignite a revolution regarding how society perceives people with special needs.”
 
They shared their core belief that everyone has a hidden talent or gift worth sharing with the world, a ‘spark’. But too often that spark is overlooked in people with disabilities, many of whom live isolated lives at home with few affordable and accessible opportunities here in the Upper Valley.
 
The center’s goals include providing social and educational programs to help adults with special needs meet their full potential, along with programs to foster and enhance the integration of people with special needs into the community.
 
Fenley, a disability rights advocate, is president of the self-advocacy group Upper Valley Neighbors. Green, whose 22-year-old son has autism and epilepsy, is a member of the Upper Valley Parents Task Force, which includes parents and caregivers of people with special needs.
 
There are a myriad of services and activities that Spark will provide – too many to list here.  Please see their website for more on this inspiring story and great effort   We can all offer some help. For example Spark is seeking volunteers to teach a class, join a planning committee, or help with the handicapped accessible community garden planned the property, organizers said.
 
For more information, go to sparkcommunitycenter.com or email sparkcommunitycenter@gmail.com, or call 603-359-7116.
-------
Julia Griffin, Board Chair of Fast Roads  & Town Manger of Hanover, NH
 
The FastRoads project is a collaboration of the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority, the Monadnock Economic Development Corporation, the thirty-four towns of the Monadnock region, and WCNH.net (the eight towns of the Upper Valley–Lake Sunapee region).
The goal of the effort is to help ensure that the businesses, institutions, and residents of the region have the right infrastructure to support jobs and sustainable economic development. The availability of affordable, “big” broadband infrastructure has become an essential component of a viable economic development strategy in rural areas.
The towns and cities of the area offer an excellent quality of life, a relatively low cost of living, and superb recreational activities. The area is also located within reasonable distances of major urban areas. Widespread availability of business class broadband has the potential for accelerating economic development in the area while maintaining the great quality of life and without the risks of over-urbanization.
There are many similarities between community road systems and broadband, which can be thought of as digital road systems. Both are used to support and facilitate commerce both within the community and to connect the community to other regions. Like physical roads, broadband has become a business essential and an economic development issue. Communities without good roads were not competitive economically during the Manufacturing Economy of the twentieth century, and communities without good digital road systems are not going to be competitive in the Knowledge Economy of the twenty-first century.
See newhampshirefastroads.net/ for more information
Sorry, missed the name of presenter from ECFiber
ECFiber is a consortium of 24 towns in East-Central Vermont. Step by step, they are building a community-owned fiber-optic network to deliver high-speed Internet to every home, business, or civic institution in their territory. Their top priority at every step is reaching as many unserved locations as possible with the resources available. In most towns, that implies a focus on back roads and outlying neighborhoods. For a quick overview of the routes built since they started construction in 2011, click on “Service Availability” at ecfiber.net .
 
Submitted by: Dan Affeldt
Spoke 5/29/2014 Dan Affeldt 2014-06-04 00:00:00Z 0
Spark brochure 2014-05-30 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 5/22/2014

Posted by Paul Boucher
 
 
 
 
 
Meeting called to order by:  President Jon Blodgett
 
Opening Song:  Rotary
 
Patriotic Song:  My County Tis of Thee
 
Invocation:  Paul Tierney
 
Song Leader Phil Rentz                         Song:  Yellow Submarine
 
Guests:      Jon Stanford guest of Jim Schibles
                 Priscilla Carr, Wife of Ron Carr
 
Raffle:        Close but no cigar, Paul Stanger pulled the Jack of Hearts not the Queen
 
Announcements: 
Betsy Child announced that the meeting of June 5th will be held at Lavalley,s Building Supplies. Call her if you are going to get a meal count.
Jim Schibles and Norm Wakeley interviewed Lebanon High Seniors for the Rotary Club Scholarship.  Too close to call
Jane Mason reported that packets have been e-mailed to the membership for solicitation for the auction.
Lorraine is looking for pie bakers for the 4th of July fund raiser
            
Brags:                      
Forrest Cole on his fishing prowess
      
Rotary Minute:    Ron Carr on the joint effort with Rotary and the Peace Corps in the Phillipines.
 
Speaker:                Ron Carr.
Ron presented a discussion of the schooner Bowdoin, in the trip to the Arctic in 1923 - 1924. This was not solely an historical lecture, but he drew the connection to the navigator on this trip, Richard Goddard, who was the father of Ron’s wife Priscilla! He also showed a framed picture of four generations at the wheel of the schooner Bowdoin. Priscilla and Ron and her son Chris went to the Maine Maritime Academy in October 2013 and had a two-hour cruise on the schooner. Chris and his son Mitchell had visited the schooner earlier in the summer while it was at dock in Portland Maine.
 
Richard Halsey Goddard, 1897 - 1983, was a 1920 Dartmouth graduate: he also earned a graduate degree from Yale. He worked for the Carnegie Institute, and took magnetic observations on both the 1921 trip to Foxe Basin and on 1923-24 trip to Northern Greenland. He later took further observations in the country of Peru. Following that time he was professor at Dartmouth College, teaching astronomy and meteorology, and had two children in Hanover New Hampshire.
 
The schooner was designed and built by Admiral Donald MacMillan (actually promoted to Adm. in 1954 by act of Congress), and named the ship after the college that MacMillan graduated from. The schooner was specifically designed for Arctic exploration: it was a baldheaded, knockabout schooner. Baldheaded refers to the fact that there were no topsails: topsails are used for speed, and in the Arctic there is either no wind or too much - speed is a negative here. Knockabout refers to the fact there was no bowsprit, which is usually used to help support the jib sail. A bowsprit can be awkward in Arctic situations where icebergs are close: also a jib is used primarily for greater speed, and again speed is not helpful.
 
Admiral MacMillan was a noted Arctic explorer, and made 30 expeditions to the Arctic over his life. He also wrote a dictionary of the Inuktitut language. His book, “Etah and Beyond”, was used as a primary basis of this lecture. An important feature in this book is MacMillan’s constant association with Eskimos. He spoke the language, and had worked with Eskimos on many prior voyages. A very interesting part of the overall story is how Eskimos kept showing up in various locations having found out that the Bowdoin was in the area.
 
The ship left Wiscasset ME on July 23, 1943 and made winter harbor in Refuge Harbor, just North of Etah. Their days consisted of visiting with Eskimos, tending fox trap lines, and tending the ship’s igloos and snow embankments. Igloos were built around hatches, allowing air to escape and improve air circulation, and reduce condensation…which freezes if left inside the ship! Provisions were procured by hunting seal, walrus, and birds plus bird’s eggs.
 
They were frozen into the harbor until July 1914, and made their return to Wiscasset on September 19.
Spoke 5/22/2014 Paul Boucher 2014-05-25 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 5/15/2014

 
 
 
 
Jon called our regular meeting of the regular Rotary Club of Lebanon at the regular time of 12:15. 
 
Patriotic song led by our lovable Ernst was America, better known as My Country Tis of Thee. 
 
Bruce Pacht was called on to give the invocation in Mary’s absence.  Just gave us something to think about.
 
Song leader was the breaking in of Marion Gagne, get ‘em busy right away, and she struggled through “It’s De-Lovely”, just like everybody else.  Oh well, it’s part of all the fun we have.
 
Visiting Rotarians included Bill Dyer, our speaker, from Londonderry, and Carla Skinder (from the Woodlands, but not officially a member yet?), who related that Katherine Austin is coming along great with her hip issue, but still not yet able to attend.
 
Nobody brought any others to our meeting, just the regular crewe.
 
Bill Koppenheffer won the right to draw the six of spades.
 
Announcements:  Your scribe, Bill Babineau, presented for vote to approve $1000 contribution to a global grant for Ghana water projects and other sanitation efforts.  District 7850, ours, is being asked to contribute $15000, of which the $1000 would be put towards, administered and overseen by Walter Hughes of Rocky Mount, VA, Rotary Club and District 7570.  Walter was the leader of the recent trip to Ghana which Steve Usle and I participated in.  The total grant is over $150000, and will go a long way to make lives better supplying access to basic needs that we all take for granted.  Thank you all for your support, as the vote looked to be unanimously in favor, although Jon didn’t ask for dissenting votes.
 
Jay Hutchins announced that changeover will be held at the Marriott Courtyard on June 20.  This is an important one because it will include many district representatives to attend to the installation of Bruce Pacht as District Governor for 2014-15.  It will be a sit-down dinner of Salmon, Chicken, or Vegetable Ravioli, for $45.  That would be per person in advance, $50 at the door.  Might seem a little steep, but it will be a once-in-many-decade event.   You can go to Club Runner and register and pay on-line.
 
Jim Shibles is looking for host families for Youth Exchange for the next school year.  Host family does not need to be Rotarians, but must live in the Lebanon School District-served communities.
 
Betsey Child announced that all should take 2 of the posters for the July 4 Pie Buffet that she handed out following the meeting.
 
Steve Usle related how bad shape the Baker’s Crossing has become because of recent storms, but the project scheduled for 5/17/14 has been postponed because of expected inclement weather.  Watch for the rescheduling and we could use your back and equipment.
 
Before introducing our speaker, Forrest Cole mentioned there are eggs to grab on your way out of the meeting.  $3 proceeds will go to Foundation.  Thanks, Forrest, many disappeared with cash in the basket.
 
No Brags, no Rotary Minute
 
Speaker:   Bill and Dennie Dyer for Shelter Box. 
What a great organization for bringing the world together to face disasters.   85% of all contributions go directly to provide Shelter Boxes that contain enough materials and supplies for 10 people.  Supplies include a tent, blankets, water purification device, pots and pans, first aid materials, and numerous items for people and communities that have lost everything they have because of an earthquake, hurricane, tornado, flood, you name it.  Each box is funded by a $1000 donation (our club bought 3 for recent disasters in Haiti and the Philippines) and weigh 150 pounds.  The organization’s aim is to be recognized as leading international providers of emergency shelters, a claim they have undoubtedly accomplished.
They are headquartered in the United Kingdom, however, SRT’s (Shelterbox Response Team members) come from all over the world and must stand ready to deploy within 24 hours.  SRT’s go to the disaster site and assess the need.  For example, 18000 shelter boxes went to aid hurricane Katrina victims, 400 went to Joplin, MO, after the tornado, 750,000 people were helped following the Haiti earthquake, and 150,000 were helped after the flooding in Pakistan, and it was interesting that none were sent to hurricane Sandy victims but 5000 thermal blankets were provided. 
Each box has an identification number so they can be tracked and you would know where your particular box went.   Boxes are not recycled, but Bill related that at a South American hurricane disaster it was discovered that boxes dispatched to a nearby community the year before showed up for re-use.  Bill also mentioned that Shelterbox works with other organizations, even where a motorcycle group showed up in Joplin and stayed for three weeks to help with the recovery effort.  Go to www.shelterbox.org for more info. 
Spoke 5/15/2014 William Babineau 2014-05-19 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 5/8/2014

Posted by Marion Gagne
 
 
 
 
Called to order by: President Jon    
 
Opening Song: Rotary          
 
Patriotic Song: Star Spangle Banner
 
Invocation: Jean Flaherty- Wulpern
 
Song Leader: Kevin Gould            Song: A boy’s best friend
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Carla Skinder
 
Guests:
None
 
Raffle: Ernst, Lost- the Queen Still lives!
 
Announcements:
Garlan & Paul B: Received there blue shields for bring in a new member the club.
Garlan: Talked about the Ducky Wucky race that is this weekend.
James and Jamie meet with Zach a student from Mascoma high school. He is being considered for the Rotary scholarship. Zach has done many hours of volunteering for things like Relay For Life, Enfield Family Fair, Eastern state.
Ron Carr: Updated us on Kate Austin trouble with hip surgery she will be out of a couple of months.
Steve U: Talked about the Baker Crossing clean up this Saturday at 8:15.
Jean F: Talked about the Golf tournament that the Riverside Rotary club is doing on May 22nd. They still would like for two more players.
 
 
Brags:
Norman had his 87th birthday. He gave a check to the Rotary fund.
 
Rotary Minute: None
 
Speaker: The Auction committee
  • John Y talked about the Auction would be Oct 4th from 5-8pm at the Fireside Inn. This year they are making sure that the public knows that it is open to everyone not just Rotarians. Online will be Gift Certificates. The silent auction will run differently this year. Auction items will be on tables and each table will be open for bidding for 15 minutes then the bidding will close and the next table will open. The live auction will run about 1 hour. The tickets for the auction are $25.00 that includes entry, and appetizers. There will be a cash bar. 
  • Jane talked about how donations will be tracked this year, using ith a program called SharePoint.
  • Betsey talked about PR. They will be doing print, social media and other advertising things. Westin Green joined the team to help with Social media.
  • Steve U talked about asking for donations and what the money raised for the auction will benefit. The money will be donated to Upper Valley Smiles. Upper Valley Smiles is a dental care service that runs out of APD that provides kids K-4th in local schools with dental care. He also talked about working in teams to get donations.
  • The goal for this year auction is $30,000 net.
 
Spoke 5/8/2014 Marion Gagne 2014-05-14 00:00:00Z 0
2014 Auction Incentive Plan John Yacavone 2014-05-09 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 5/1/2014

Posted by Paul Tierney
 
 
 
 
Call to order at 12:15 by President Jon
Sang “Rotary”
Ernst O led “Oh Beautiful for Spacious Skies”
Steve Usle gave invocation
 
Visiting Rotarian-Scott Oscar from Henniker
Raffle –No winner
Announcement-New Generations chair, Jim Schibles announced a Lebanon High School student has been selected for RYLA
                           Ernst O. announced “green Up day” led by Dan Nash
Rick Dyment announced Lake Sunapee district Boy Scouts would hold a Jamboree
Mary Deutsche has been certified as a Community Chaplain
 
Speaker
Rosemary Affeldt  introduced the Halls of Hope Mental Health Court effort in Grafton County
Shelly Golden, its ED continued:
The program is a voluntary court supervised program for offenders who have committed a misdemeanor offense that is attributed to a mental health issue.
  1. Started June 1, 2011
  2. Grass roots program as an alternative to criminal sentence
  3. Judge Tenney here in the Lebanon Court is an avid supporter
  4. West Central Behavioral Health manages the mental health counselling
  5. Its County funded
  6. It costs $42,000 for a year of incarceration in Grafton County
  7. 8 graduates so far
It’s a one year program of a lot of work and discipline
Failure means being remanded to the county jail
Currently six participants
The county coordinates with the Dept. of Health care and Human services in VT.
Matt Isham of Lebanon Police Dept. who has been involved since the beginning spoke about the Dept.’s involvement and answered questions
 
Meeting Adjourned at 1:30
Spoke 5/1/2014 Paul Tierney 2014-05-07 00:00:00Z 0
Upper Valley Smiles 2014-04-30 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 4/24/2014

 
 
 
 
 
Called to order by: President Jon    
 
Opening Song: Rotary          
 
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful
 
Invocation: Bruce Pacht
 
Song Leader: Dennis Tobin               Song: Stout hearted men
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Carla Skinder
 
Guests:
Chelsea Trembley, St. Petersberg Alaska “Little Norway”
 
Raffle: Don MacMeekin, Lost- the Queen Still lives!
 
Announcements:
Garlan: Polio Plus plea resulted in $1,100 being donated.  He had only asked for $700.
Garlan: Reminder to buy our ducks for the Ducky Wucky race
Dan Nash: May 3 will be the Lebanon cleanup day, meet at the town square at 9 AM for assignments
Carla Skinner informed us that Kate Austin had a mishap during her morning exercise and was not able to attend the meeting as a result
Ron Carr: announced email template changes have been made in club runner email system. 
Ron Carr: he is uploading documents, historical Spokes and Paul Shannon’s pictures and movies relating to Rotary
Betsey and Jon report that Mike Weins is back at his home and recovering.  He is doing some work.
 
Brags:
Forrest:  offered Lawn Bantams for $10 each, 100% of which will be donated to the club
Ernst: Son Max’s dissertation is complete and submitted.  The title of the dissertation is “Between Patron and Priest: Amdo Tibet under Qing Rule 1791-1911. It has been accepted by the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences of Harvard University
Ernst: just passed the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners Exam
 
Rotary Minute: None
 
Speaker: Chief Richard Crate, Enfield NH Police Department.  He spoke about prescription drug abuse and how it has grown over the recent past to epidemic proportions.
  • In 2012 193 people overdosed on opiate pain killers in NH alone.
  • In 2006 nationally, deaths from opiate pain killer’s auto death rate in NH.
  • Countrywide heroin is now being delivered 100% pure
  • The need for a prescription management plan on a state wide basis based on;
    • A person can go to several doctors, get a prescription for pain killers and get all of them filled, no one will be the wiser.
    • The value of opiate pain killers if $1 per milligram.  A 30 milligram tablet is selling for $30
  • Many users are breaking into homes of friends and family who have used or are using opiate pain killers and stealing pills from the medicine cabinet.
  • Left over pills and scripts are being sold on the open market
  • Businesses are seeing an increase in “sick days” due to an addiction to opiate pain killers, thus reducing the efficiency of the company and possible loss of income to the business
  • Many physicians are changing their prescription policies and writing for a smaller quantity of opiate pain killers, making the patient return for a refill.
  • He relayed a story of a mother of two who was entering homes looking for pills while her two children waited in the car.  The children are 5 and 6.  The addiction has cost her her marriage and time in Jail.  She can only have supervised visitation with her kids.  He predicts she will be back on the pills soon.
Spoke 4/24/2014 2014-04-30 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke April 17, 2014

Posted by Mary Detsch
 
 
 
 
Date: 04/17/2014
 Called to order by: Pres Jon
 Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 Patriotic Song: O Beautiful for Spacious Skies           
 
Invocation: Forrest Cole
 
Song Leader: Don MacMeekin           Song: Day and Night / Cole Porter
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Carla Skinner
 
Guests:
Bob Schultz (Jr Rotarian from High School!), father of Cover president, guest of Katherine Austin
 
Raffle: Carla, no joy in Mudville
 
Announcements:
Garlan – selling Ducky-Wucky tickets for Ayer Rotary Club: our club will get back 50% of tickets we sell, Grand Prize is dinner for two anywhere in the country includes airfare and hotel!!!
Rick Dyment – is $10 over anybody not get change? Too many claimants…
 
Brags:
Linda Copp cute story about granddaughter and Rotary decal on her car
John Yacavone $77 for Rotary Foundation for his birthday
Rich Wallace: Valley News has a new mobile app: Daughter Brittany in Honor Society; she also is accepted into summer Hospitality Summer Program at U of NH
Katherine: grandson Sam Lazarus accepted into Wharton School of Business, and granted one of the 4 scholarships offered!
Jean Wulpern: Daughter’s best friend lost her baby-asked for our thoughts and prayers
Rick Dyment: Movie “Walk in the Woods” directed by Robert Redford is in filming: airport in film will have Lebanon Airport sign on it. No $ for Lebanon, just bragging rights…
Jennifer Grant: Step-son Cody accepted into (Carnegie Mellon?)
Forrest Cole &65 to Rotary Foundation for birthday
 
Rotary Minute: Rich: Monthly Rotary calendar – each moth has it’s Rotary-designated purpose
 
Speaker: Forrest Cole
Lots of good stuff from Forrest, Ogden Nash material from Jennifer and Jim, questionable material from John Y, ended by The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere read by Forrest
Spoke April 17, 2014 Mary Detsch 2014-04-18 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Minute 4/10/2010

What does Daniel Boone have to do with Rotary?
Daniel Boone traveled around the country a lot during his legendary
years. And our Rotarians travel around a lot, too. We travel from home or work to meetings, to local events and projects, to other Rotary meetings and to district events.
But we also "travel" to place around the world without leaving the comfort of our homes. Through Rotary Foundation, we have traveled every corner of the world, leaving a mark on water wells, community hospitals and clinics, and village schools. We'ye touched the hands of disabled, eyes to the blind, legs of the crippled, and hearts of the homeless. We've built buildings, administered vaccines, filled libraries, and supplied school desks. Though us, others have been able to physically travel for education, humanitarian efforts and building relationships.
If you've purchased a plane ticket lately, of filled your tank with gas, you know travel doesn't come cheap either. It is through continuous contributions to the Rotary Foundation that we are able to reach those corners of the world.
Make a renewed effort to contribute as you are financially able to The Rotary Foundation, especially, to the Polio Plus campaign as we are nearing the eradication of this terrible disease.
Thanks to Don Hackett District 7630 Governor 2010-2011
Rotary Minute 4/10/2010 John Yacavone 2014-04-11 00:00:00Z 0

Paul Shannon's Movies!

The following are links to Youtube, where the movies taken by Paul over the years are stored.
This list will grow as it takes time to post all of these. Paul was a prolific movie taker!
 
Also please note added photo albums from Paul: again these will take time to complete.
 
Paul Shannon's Movies! Ron Carr 2014-04-05 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke March 20, 2014

Posted by Jamie Whyte on Mar 26, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
Called to order by: Pres John
 
Opening Song: ROTARY
 
Patriotic Song: America
 
Invocation: Dan Affeldt – spoke of Paul Shannon
 
Song Leader: Kevin Gould   Song: Slave of Ambition
 
Visiting Rotarians:
     
 
Guests:
Carla Skinder a/k/a Cornish Hen
     
 
Raffle: Bill K
 
Announcements:
Rotary Leadership this Saturday at High School
Auction process has begun – Oct 4 – Forum in May
This Sunday at Lebanon Opera House – US Army Field Band
 
Brags:
Jane – Thanked those who assisted her on getting in for lunch. Think John Blodgett was most helpful J
Jane – March 2 – 19 years in Rotary
Ron Carr – Boston symphony hall, his grandson played there.
Katherine – Granddaughter admitted to her alma mater.
 
 
Rotary Minute: N/A
 
Speaker: Lee
 
Lee works for Seldon Technologies which was started by Chris Cooper and Alan Cummings in 2002. Original created to develop Water, Fuel and Air filtration, currently Water and Fuel is there main focus. 2010 began selling products commercially. Currently there’re 40 employees.
Our mission is to clean Africa’s drinking water. Seldon is working on a humanitarian effort with a camp in Zimbabwe of 10,000 plus, which the number continues to grow. They require 20,000 liters of clean water per day, which is trucked in and put through a filtration system at rate of 2 liters a minute.
For more information you can go to http://seldonwater.com/ or Facebook to check out there progress.
Spoke March 20, 2014 Jamie Whyte 2014-03-27 00:00:00Z 0
*** Ghana Photos *** Bill & Steve 2014-03-15 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke March 6, 2014

Posted by Jean Flaherty-Wulpern
 
 
 
 
Called to order by: President Jon
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
Patriotic Song: My Country Tis Of Thee
Invocation: Ron Carr     
Song Leader: Rich Wallace          Song: Lover Come Back To Me
Visiting Rotarians: None
Guests: Marion Gagne, Debbie and Danielle Babineau, wife and daughter of Bill
Vickie daughter of Katherine and a Paul Harris Fellow
 Announcements:
  • Garlan-Attended the Best of the Upper Valley High School Exhibition 2014 at the Ava Gallery.  He presented a student with $200.00 from, The Doris Mollica Fund of the Rotary Club of Lebanon for Best in Digital Art.
  • Garlan and Norm shared an invitation from the Cardigan Mountain School to all Rotarians and their spouses.  Saturday, April 5th.  We will start with a tour of the facility, followed by dinner and entertainment.  A sign-up sheet was passed at the meeting, please notify Garlan if you’re unable to sign up at a meeting.
Brags:
  • John Yacavone-Game Dinner @ the Meriden FD, Saturday March 8th.  $16 per person, two settings @ 5p and 7p.
  • Rich Wallace- The Valley News has added Digital Advertising.
  • Paul Stanger- Just returned from celebrating his granddaughter’s first birthday.
 
Rotary Minute: Ron Carr, spoke about wearing his Rotary Hat and Pin, not just to meetings but daily because he’s proud of being a Rotarian and all the great things Rotary does.  Window decals were given to all in attendance to display on their car window by President Jon.
 
Speaker: Bill Babineau and Steve Usle spoke about their adventures in Africa.  They gave a “Perfect” presentation covering all their hot spots!
They visited 5 Rotary Clubs, bringing back 2 banners that were presented to Pres. Jon and a native sash that was presented to Pres. Jon and Pres. Elect Garlan.  They also presented a sash to Betsy and Jim for their tremendous support of their trip. 
”Eta Sein”, how’s it going!  Better than a few years ago.  Clean water has made a great difference in many communities visited.
A Shea Butter Soap manufacturing shop is thriving and supporting many children to go to school.    Another group established a basket weaving factory.  About 25 children attended school prior to their well, over 600 attend now.  The well water has improved health and reduced the physical labor by the women and children allowing them to create these businesses and send the children to school.
Celebration was seen throughout their visit, gatherings with song and dance were a common thread.  During their visit Celebrations were also held for the eradication of the Guinea Worm, newspaper articles were shared with the club.
Herb McClaughery, DG Elect from West Virginia pledged a Borehole “well” in Sagadugu at a school.  Bill and Steve will actively represent our club to support this work in memory of Mike Sandoe.
Walter Hughes visits the area 2-3 times a year.  Monitoring things from the past and present, he keeps his eyes on new projects and is someone trusted by all.  There are brighter futures and better lives, because of this meaningful work.
Spoke March 6, 2014 Jean Flaherty-Wulpern 2014-03-11 00:00:00Z 0

Weekly Quote and Joke

Posted by Ron Carr on Mar 01, 2014
A priest is walking down the street one day when he notices a small boy trying to press the doorbell on the house across the street. However, the doorbell is too high for him to reach. So the priest walks up behind the little fellow and, placing his hand kindly on the child's shoulder leans over and gives the doorbell a solid ring.
Crouching down to the child's level, the priest smiles and asks, "you know what, my little man?"
To which the boy replies, "now we run!"

The legendary cellist Pablo Cassals was asked why he continued to practice at age 90.
"Because I think I'm making progress" he replied.
 
When the game Twister was introduced in 1966, it was denounced by critics as "sex in a box".

In an effort to promote global development and volunteer service, Rotary and Peace Corps have agreed to participate in a one-year pilot program in the Philippines, Thailand, and Togo.

Under the agreement, Rotary clubs and Peace Corps volunteers are encouraged to share their resources and knowledge to boost the impact of development projects in these three countries.

Opportunities for collaboration include supporting community projects, training, networking, and community education. Through the , Rotary clubs can continue to provide small grants to support volunteers and their communities.

 

 

 

 

Weekly Quote and Joke Ron Carr 2014-03-02 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 2/27/2014

Posted by Steve Whitman
 
 
 
 
February 27, 2014
 
Visiting Rotarians: Gina Allison, Bob Christy, West Springhorm, Becky Smith and Sue Shaw from Hanover. Retired Rotarians from Lebanon: Fred Carleton and his wife Missy plus Pete Mason. Guests: Beverly Wakely, David Urso, Ashley Parker and Marion Gagne.
 
Rotarians Present: Babineau, Berner, Blodgett, Boucher, Carr, Child, Cole, Copp, Detsch-M, Dyment, Griffin, Hoskin, Hutchins, MacMeekin, Mason, Michaud, Nash, Oidtmann, Pacht, Shibles, Tierney, Tobin, Wakely, Whitman, Whyte, Yacavone.26/43 =60%
 
We sang but seemed to have forgotten the words. Tis good to sing! It is better to sing well. Paul Boucher gave the blessing and after moving through the efficient self- serving line we all sat down to a wonderful meal. We sang again and it would be hard to say we improved on clarity, volume, or tune.
 
Brags: Ron Carr for his Grandson Aaron; Bill Babineau for Steve’s dry sox and a great wife; Jane Mason for the Dutch speed skaters who could have carried Ernst Oidtmann on their Olympic team plus having father Pete Mason, past Lebanon Rotarian and Pres., in attendance and ready to celebrate his 85th birthday (he looked 60); Mary Detsch Who is looking forward to be a Grandmother on October 25th and Jennifer Grant who thanked Kendall for awarding her son Brian a Kendall Scholar award in recognition of his exemplary service during several summers on the Kendall Wait Staff.
 
Before Betsey, who did so much to organize this great meeting, could thank and introduce the hosts and speakers for the meeting, John Y. read us a joke about texting amongst the oldster set. It seemed to your scribe that about half the audience thought it fair and funny which was a nice improvement on Y’s batting average.

Betsey started off by recognizing the reason for the meeting at Kendall was because of missing Lebanon Rotarian Fred Carleton who no longer could attend our meetings in Lebanon. Fred looked great and said he enjoyed the occasion and did miss the weekly meetings. Later, while going on a wonderful visit of the facilities at Kendall, I again spied Fred in the weight room working out on one of the machines; a true inspiration. Betsey thanked the wait staff and the kitchen for their superb service and then introduced Becky Smith, CEO of Kendall of Hanover, who spoke to us about Kendall. After a few acknowledgements she turned the meeting over to David Urso, Director of Marketing to brief us on Kendall.
 
Kendall of Hanover is known as a type of organization called a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC). Its approach to health care and wellness involves residents playing an active role in their care, while continuing to maintain the highest level of independence possible. Supporting this approach is a full continuum of care throughout a resident’s lifetime; Residential Living, Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing, and Memory Care in one location. Additionally, the residents’ health and wellness are enhanced by an on-site Dartmouth-Hitchcock Clinic and Home Care Program.
 
Kendall has about 330 independent residents and 70 to 80 in the Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing programs.
 
After the talk, David took three of us on an impressive tour of the amenities. We saw the Swimming Pool, Fitness Center, Work Shop, Arts & Crafts Studio, and Library plus lots of open meeting spaces. We also learned how the entry fee and monthly costs did not change if you changed the level of need over the time you lived at Kendall. Those approximate costs cover the following range for two people:
 
One Bedroom ((752 sq ft) – Entry fee of $277,000 and monthly costs of $5,000
Two Bedroom/Den (1350 sq ft) – Entry fee of $520,000 and monthly costs of $6,600.
 
Becky Smith then told of the many changes that Kendall has been going through and the changes coming down the road. In the past year emphasis has moved away from structural repair to outlining a master plan for the community of the future. They are focused on development of the land recently purchased from the Chieftain Motel to the north as well as expansion and modernization of some of the activities area. Dan Nash is providing Civil Engineering studies on this project as well as Ingrid Nichols from Banwell Architects of Lebanon.
 
The residents of Kendall have always been active in community service work and have been recognized for their efforts with the Hanover Chamber of Commerce Community Service Award in 2009. One of the other things Becky has been working on over the past three years is getting the staff more involved in community volunteer work. It would appear that she is succeeding as the hrs volunteered by the staff to non-profits in the Upper Valley has increased from 172 hours in 2011 to 256 hours for the first 11 months of this fiscal year.
 
Next week’s Rotary meeting will feature our own Dynamic Volunteer Duo, Bill Babineau and Steve Usle, as they show and tell of their Rotarian trip to Ghana and how our support of the water project has turned out.
 
Mark your calendars for SATURDAY APRIL 5, 2014 for a Gala Dinner Party at Cardigan Mountain School in Canaan as guests of Headmaster Emeritus Norm Wakely and the current Head David McCusker, Jr. ’80 .  Tours of the facility will begin at 5 p.m. followed by cocktails with dinner being served at 6:15 p.m.  A program presented by the boys will be our delightful entertainment.  It is a marvelous event for "breaking into Spring" and remembering a similar occasion when Norm was the Headmaster, it is something not to be missed.  We will have sign up sheets beginning next week March 6th.  Norm, thanks for making this possible with the support of CMS!!

SPECIAL NOTICE:  The hotel where the District Conference in Burlington VT is being held has had problems with the registration and DG Dates asked that we wait until Monday March 4th to register as they should have all their problems squared away by Monday.  We will still receive the early bird special next week until Friday the 7th. NEXT WEEK IS THE TIME TO REGISTER TO SAVE MONEY$$$ and you will have a great time at the conference.
Spoke Writer for the week:
Steve Whitman
 
 
Spoke 2/27/2014 Steve Whitman 2014-03-01 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of lebanon Spoke 02/20/2014

Posted by Suellen Griffin
 
 
 
 
Date: February 20,2014
 
Called to order by: President Jon Blodgett
 
Opening Song:   R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: America the Beautiful
 
Invocation: Don MacMeekin
 
Song Leader: Paul Stanger    Song: In the Good Old Summertime
 
Visiting Rotarians:
Kevin Wenger, Hanover
 
Guests:
Ben Cole
Bob Walpern
Mary Ann Gagne
 
Raffle:   Forrest Cole  (no luck)
 
Announcements:
 
The Rotary meeting next Thursday 2/27 will be at 12 noon at Kendal in Hanover.
 
Brags:
 
Ernst—Celebrating the success of Norway at the 2014 Olympics.
             Reported on his winter outing up North.
 
Jennifer- Daughter Emma was in a ski accident. Jennifer thanked the club for their support of David’s house, as she was able to utilize the house while staying with her daughter at DHMC. Wonderful experience.
            Thanked Suellen for a reference for her new position as Executive Director of a Child/Family program in Windsor, VT
 
Weston-   Expecting his first child in September, oh, and the second one too. 
 
Rotary Minute: Bruce Pacht
 
Speaker: Nancy DuMont        Presentation on “Oral Health”
 
The Upper Valley Smiles Program began in 2003 following a Community Assessment, which identified oral health as one of the most significant issues for the Upper Valley. The program is sponsored by APD and DMHC.
 
Team consists of Dr. Bob Keen, a retired dentist, Mary Davis and Shelly.
 
Currently working in schools in White River Junction, Mascoma, Canaan and Grafton. Other schools will be brought on as funding permits.
 
With permission from parents, children get a full screening from the dentist then follow up treatment for identified issues. 
 
The program is for low-income children that would otherwise not be able to receive dental.  Treatment
for children includes fluoride varnish on their front teeth and sealants on their back teeth.
 
1606 children participated in the program last year.
344 received a full screening
239 received follow up treatment
145 were referred to a local dentist
1278 children received sealants
 
28% of the children screened had dental decay; the state average is 12%
 
25% of the children have 80% of the tooth decay.
 
Tooth decay is the most common childhood illness.
 
In addition to dental screenings and treatment the program also offers education on good nutrition to improve oral health.
 
Submitted by: Suellen Griffin
Rotary Club of lebanon Spoke 02/20/2014 Suellen Griffin 2014-02-25 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 2/13/2014

Posted by Rick Dyment
 
 
 
 
 
Called to order by: Jon Blodgett
 
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
 
Patriotic Song: My Country Tis Of Thee
 
Invocation: Kevin Gould
 
Song Leader:        Song:      
 
Visiting Rotarians:
    
Terry Martin
    
Guests:
   
None
 
Raffle:  Jon Yacavone
 
Announcements:
Betsey: There will be a meeting at Kendall on the 28th; same time.
Garlan:  Stop by the Senior Center on Friday for Valentine's Day.  Roberta later said this was cancelled.
Bruce:  Rotary training coming up April 12.  $75/Person.  Club will reimburse.
    
Brags:
Betsey:  Jim and others are up north having fun.
Paul S.:  Son Ryan is in British Columbia ski touring.
Jon:  His daughter designed a swimsuit recently worn by Brittney Spears.
Garlan:  Expressed a preference for 2-piece swimsuits.
 
Rotary Minute: Suellen:  The object of Rotary:  High ethical standards, application of ideals of service, advancement of international understannding.
 
Speaker: Rotary speech contest.
  • Jesse Austin and Mom and Dad.
  • Laslow Bardos and Lynn Davis.
  • Asher Lance and Mom and instructor Dave Weldman.
  • Jesse Austin:  Theme was service above self.  You must serve others and not yourself.  Need 1) steadfastness, 2) selflessness, 3) sacrifice.
  • Asher Lance:  Theme above self.  Discussed family’s disabled guest in Cairo with Cerebral Palsy.  Asher’s addiction to affluence and its effect on David.
  • Laslow Bardos:  Theme was the 4-way test.  Guided by his mother.  You need to have your own thoughts.  Discussed problems with his grandfather.  Life may not be fair but you need to be fair to others.  The Rotary 4-way test is about his Mom.
Meeting was closed by President Jon.
 
Submitted by: Rick Dyment
Spoke 2/13/2014 Rick Dyment 2014-02-24 00:00:00Z 0
Rotary Leadership Training April 12 2014-02-14 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 2/06/2014

 
 
 
 
 
Called to order by: Jon Blodgett
Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y
Patriotic Song: My Country, ‘Tis of Thee
Invocation: Richard Detsch
Song Leader: Steve Whitman  Song: Clementine
Visiting Rotarians: Jennifer Grant
Guests:    
Marion Gagne , of Lake Sunapee Bank
Philip Rentz, of Service Credit Union 
 
Raffle: Dennis Tobin drew the wrong queen.
 
Announcements:
1. February make-up meeting at Salt Hill 2/10/14
2. District Conference at Burlington Hilton Hotel 4/25 – 4/27/14
3.Lebanon Rotary Classic Golf Tournament at Eastman 5/22/14   
 
Brags:
Bill Koppenheffer bragged about a great family vacation in Florida, but then fined himself for letting the vacation get in the way of a rotary event down there.
Paul Stanger bragged about an intimate boating experience in the Keys.  There were only six of them, and they had a blast.
Rotary Minute: Kevin Gould discussed Rotary Foundation Grants.  He discussed the following types of grants: 1) District; 2) Global; and 3) Package.  District grants start at $4,000. Global grants are reserved for projects with a budget of $30,000, at least $15,000 of which would come from the Rotary Foundation.  Package grants involve cooperation between the clubs, the district, the Foundation, and other strategic partners.
 
Speaker: Club Forum
Rick, Sergeant at Arms: No new developments at this time
Forrest, on behalf of Jim for Youth Services: Goals for the coming year include continuing 1) the speech contest; 2) Rotary Youth Leadership Weekend; and 3) Scholarships for Mascoma and Lebanon High Schools.  Also on the agenda is to determine our participation in Interact, Rotaract, and the citizenship trip to Washington, D.C. for our district’s youth.
Forrest, Mollica Fund: The year-end balance was $92,385.  In keeping with the plan to spend the previous year’s interest and dividends, the 2014 budget will be approximately $1,700.  Additional gifts, though, may be brought into the mix for immediate expenditure as designated.
Linda, Secretary: Returning Rotarian Jennifer Grant needs to be added to the member list.
Kevin, Rotary Foundation: Kevin emphasized the importance of having a high percentage of sustaining members to improve our chance of getting grants.  Be forewarned, he has a few individuals to track down.  Paul Harris Fellows will need to be named for the coming year.
Lorraine, Treasurer: The operating fund remains in the black at $7,900, which will be reduced when international dues are paid March 1.  The account is funded from tickets, donations, and membership dues.  About $1,800 is outstanding from membership dues.  Jon and Garland have been budgeted about $16,000 from the charities account.  This account has $58,000, $10,000 of which has been committed.
John Y., Auction Chair: This year’s auction will be held at the Enfield Community Building on October 24, 2014.  Items to be decided include the goal and theme.  The auction will benefit Upper Valley Smiles.  This charitable program deploys volunteer dentists and two paid hygienists to see around a thousand kids.  In the last year, about 28% of the kids were found to have significant issues with gums and teeth.  As a typical pattern, these kids are then referred to area dentists who have agreed to provide discounted services.
Suellen, Innovation Committee: This committee works to build an organizational chart, define committee assignments, and outline plans for club continuity and history.  Ron Carr has begun a project to record and preserve the club’s history.  Additionally, the innovation committee seeks to document the values and ethics of the club, review the bylaws, and encourage change based on the members’ survey.  As a catch all, this committee welcomes new ideas and feedback that may not necessarily fit other committees.
Jon B. on behalf of Jean, Club Administration: The duties of club administration include publicizing club activities, keeping an up-to-date calendar, maintaining the club’s facebook page, experimenting with the use of other media, promoting fellowship and helping the social committee.  Additionally, an emphasis will be placed on tracking club attendance and creating an effective follow-up procedure.
Steve W. and Bill K. on behalf of Bill B., International Service: Steve provided a map of Ghana and Willie highlighted on the map where Steve Usle and Bill Babineau will be traveling.
Paul T., Club Service: Club Service is a broad group that includes membership, innovation, and development.  Development further includes auction, public relations, giving, and social.  Betsy stressed the need for a public relations effort because many people remain unaware about Rotary or continue long-standing misconceptions.
Dennis, District: President-Elect Training will be held March 6-8, 2014.  Leadership Development training will be held March 29.  The 2015 District Conference will take place May 29-31 in Stowe, VT at Stoweflake.  Bruce and team will be relying on a local club to help prepare for this event.
 
Motion regarding the Speech Contest: At the next meeting, 2/13/14, a number of parents and other guests of the youth speakers will be in attendance.  Steve W. made a motion that the club pay for the lunch of non-rotarians.  This motion was seconded by a significant number.
Spoke 2/06/2014 Ron Carr 2014-02-10 00:00:00Z 0

Pictures of the Week

 
 
             Induction of Paul Stanger                 
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Speech Contest Winner Asher Lantz, KUA
   
         
 
Pictures of the Week Ron Carr 2014-01-19 00:00:00Z 0
2014-15 RI Theme Ron Carr 2014-01-17 00:00:00Z 0
Rotary Smiles Poster Ron Carr 2014-01-12 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 1/2/2014

 
 
 
 
Meeting called to order by President Jon.
Invocation by Dave Robinson ... a Native American blessing Sang “America the Beautiful”
Jim Shibles was “emergency song leader”, and led us in “Home on the Range”
No visiting Rotarians or guests this week.
 
Paul Tierney won the draw but not the Queen!!!
 
Announcements:
 
                Steve Whitman will be “assistant secretary” to Linda for about the next six months, as being the lone Secretary is sometimes an overwhelming job.
 
                The Board will meet Tuesday, January 14 at 5:15 pm in Conference Room at DHMC on Heater Road
 
                Garlan wants “his” committees to meet, make a report, and give that to Garlan by the end of the month.
 
                Ernst, Community Service Chair, would like to meet with his committee after the meeting on the 16th. Members are: Dan Affeldt, Forrest Cole, Steve Usle, Dan Nash, Catherine Austin, Dave Robinson and Nick Troisi. Please confirm with Ernst your intentions.
 
                John Yacavone and Bill Koppenheffer are in the pre-planning stages of holding a social function at the AVA gallery sometime between February 21 to March 14, to coincide with a large exhibit of high school students’ work. We’ll invite Rotary Clubs of Woodstock, WRJ, Hanover and West Lebanon. Forrest says this is the type of event that the Molliker Fund supports and that AVA is enthusiastic to have this event there.
 
Brags:
 
 
Jamie was fined for taking the Greeter Badge home and forgetting it! 
Spoke of his passion for owning and training retrievers and has a new three-month-old pup. He is heading to Saskatchewan and Arkansas to hunt (sorry, I may have this a little mixed up . . .)
 
SPEAKER:
 
 Tony Giunta, President and CEO of AMENICO, American Energy Independence Company, of Pittsfield, NH, spoke to the topic of the Future of Energy. . . his wife Maryska accompanied him.
 AMENICO manufactures an entire line of non-petroleum-based, environmentally friendly, renewable products.
 He enlarged on What IS the Future? Why do we need energy: of all the reasons, the most important, he feels, is for drinking water plants and treating wastewater.
The USA in a year uses 685 billion gallons of oil equivalents – for comparison, Lake Winnipesaukee at 72 sq.mi. and avg of 43 ft. deep, is 625 billion gallons of water. So we use more oil than all of the water in that huge lake every year.
 
               
The top energy sources that we use are: liquid petroleum (and of that, 71% is used for transportation!); natural gas (only 3$ used for transportation); coal, renewables and nuclear.               
AMENICO collects the used oils from restaurants from 1300 restaurants to make into bio-fuel.
Tony indicated that the next source of fuel would probably be coming from “fracking” of shale from Canada to many sites in the USA. This source of natural gas, just from the Marcellus Shale site in Ohio and NY, could contain 100 years of gas reserve.
 
(from the web: The Marcellus Shale gas formation is rich in natural gas resources. It is one of the largest shale regions in the United States; Marcellus shale and is estimated to be the second largest natural gas find in the world. Stretching across New York, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio and Maryland, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) estimates the formation’s total area to be around 95,000 square miles, ranging in depth from 4,000 to 8,000 feet. The 400 year-old rock Marcellus shale formation is estimated to contain more than 410 trillion cubic feet of natural gas and could supply U.S. consumers’ energy needs for hundreds of years.
 
Technological advances such as horizontal drilling paired with hydraulic fracturing have allowed energy companies to unlock the energy resources from the Marcellus Shale, while protecting drinking water sources and the environment.)
                The Keystone pipeline from Canada’s Alberta Sands site will benefit the USA in that they are our friends, and will enable us to:
                • energy security
                • provide thousands of US jobs
                • and give us billions of dollars in tax revenue.
                There are two BILLION barrels of oil in Alberta, and it WILL go somewhere ... so why not US?
In Summary, the takeaway points are:
                • we use a lot of energy
                • we need all sources
                • what is the priority regarding energy projects:
                                • reliability
                                • national security
                                • low carbon/renewable (environmentally friendly)
                • Potential energy sources are: US hydro, nuclear, North American Hydro, US Fossil and No. Amer. Fossil.
 
For more information about this company, please visit their web site: 
Spoke 1/2/2014 Betsey Child 2014-01-07 00:00:00Z 0

Assignments 1/16/2014 - 1/23/2014

 
Thursday, January 16, 2014
Ron Carr                         Spoke
Katherine Austin            Invocation
Kevin Gould                    Greeter
Michael Weins                Rotary Minute
Westin Greene               Song Leader
 
Thursday, January 23, 2014
Bill Babineau                  Song Leader
Forrest Cole                  Spoke
Kevin Gould                   Invocation
Steve Usle                     Greeter
Westin Greene               Rotary Minute
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assignments 1/16/2014 - 1/23/2014 Ron Carr 2014-01-03 00:00:00Z 0

New Photo Albums!!

Posted by Ron Carr on Dec 31, 2013
Thanks to jim Shibles, we have two new photo albums: The Holiday Party and Paul Harris Awards.
Check them out!!!
New Photo Albums!! Ron Carr 2014-01-01 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 12/26/2014

Posted by Rich Wallace on Dec 25, 2013
 
 
 
 
Called to order by: President Jon
Opening Song: Rotary
Patriotic Song: Oh Beautiful
Invocation: Mike Weins
Song Leader: Steve Usle       Song: Sloop John B
Visiting Rotarians:
None
Guests:
Eric Cole son and guest of Forrest Cole
Linda Oidtmann wife and guest of Ernst Oidtmann
Elizabeth Asch daughter and guest of Kathryn Austin
Kelly Wallace wife and guest of Rich Wallace
Brittney Wallace daughter and guest of Rich Wallace
Raffle: Jon Blodgett got the chance to draw and did not win
Announcements:
Jon Blodgett thanks all who have helped during the first half of this Rotary year.
Jon Blodgett announced that the “Greeter” badge is missing, please see if you might have it
Jon Blodgett announced that pilot club program has been approved to continue
Brags:
Dennis Tobin bragged that his son and daughter in-law had a daughter on Dec. 11
Bruce Pacht bragged that he sang at Midnight Mass at St. Dennis, got an unexpectedly invite to a friends for Christmas Eve dinner, and carved up turkeys at the Lebanon Christmas Day Dinner.
Guest Elizabeth Asch bragged that her business (River Valley Club) has resurfaced their indoor tennis facility.
Kathryn Austin use to sing at a Jewish temple, but had to use different last name.
Rotary Minute: David Robinson provided us with information about the Rotary Code of Conduct
Presentation: Kevin Gould presented a Paul Harris Fellow to: Elizabeth Asch and Brittney Wallace
Speaker: Westin Greene – gave classification talk.
Westin grew up in TN and went to college in SC. Received a Liberal Arts degree so he went into banking. He has experience in retail banking and also credit operations. He and his wife moved to Tunbridge and he went to work for Randolph National Bank, when the bank was sold Westin moved to Mascoma Bank and became involved in Mascoma Insurance, which is what he is doing today.
Spoke 12/26/2014 Rich Wallace 2013-12-26 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 12/19/2013

Posted by William Koppenheffer on Dec 21, 2013
 
 
 
 
Called to order by: Pres Jon
 
Opening Song: Rotary, My Rotary
 
Patriotic Song: My Country ‘tis of Thee
 
Invocation: Betsey Child
 
Song Leader: David Robinson            Song: We Wish You a Merry Christmas
 
Visiting Rotarians:
None
 
Guests:
None
 
Raffle: Ernst drew the wrong Queen
 
Announcements:
1. We passed the hat for the kitchen help augmented by a hotly contested gourmet candy auctions one by Paul Terry $21.
2. Bruce P announced three upcoming educational opportunities:
A) District Team Training, February 1 at DHMC and sake space – seminars for Presidents elect, foundation qualification, youth exchange, RYLA, and Leadership Tract candidates;
B) District Training Assembly, March 29 at Hanover High School for incoming secretaries and treasurer's, as well as various other seminars;
C) Rotary Leadership Institute in April at DHMC – Rotary College.
The club will pay entry fees for all of the above.
3. Jim Shibles still looking for judges for Jan 19 Speech contest
 
Brags:
Ron Carr: a) He turns 75 and presented a foundation gift commensurate with his age, b) that Betsey made him a gorgeous photo arrangement for Priscilla
Bruce P: a) eldest son Asher will get married on July 25, b) middle son Oran is chasing some woman to Alaska (good choice in December) with a homemade ring in an attempt to convince her to marry him.
Ernst: reliving those days of yesteryear, when in his prime (i. e. When he was president) in the wood we regale us weekly with "this day in Dutch history", we were informed in great detail of: (a) the travels and travails on St. Nick (from Turkey to Spain to the Netherlands), of the rewards for being good, and other punishments for being naughty (Black Pete). (Pres. Jon decided this was a five dollar brag).
 
Rotary Minute: None
 
Speaker: President-elect Garlan introduced his cabinet
Incoming Secretary Steve Whitman said he would:
  1. Provide more written information for members on a regular basis
  2. Increase member access
  3. Organize the club archives
He also said he would propose a 400% increase in the cost of brags (so Ernst would have paid $25) as well as a 53% increase in the cost of lunch. He then proposed new enticements to various interest groups. I never thought of him as a tax and spend kind of guy.
He emphatically took no questions. Conspicuous by its absence was whether or not our weekly ballet lessons would continue.
Incoming Club Service Chair Paul Tierney announced his sub-chairs:
  1. Innovation – Suellen Griffin
  2. Membership – Ron Carr
  3. Development – John Yacavone
  4. Social – Jean Wulpern
  5. Administrative and Speakers – Ron Michaud
Paul took no questions either.
Incoming Community Service Chair Ernst told us there would be 2 divisions of this service: Environmental and Social:
  1. Environmental – River cleanup, Baker’s Crossing, Rails to Trails, and suggestions from the City of Lebanon Conservation Commission
  2. Social (writer’s apology for jumble of notes at this point)
 
Garlan then informed the club that a long lunch at Salt hill Pub with Steve after giving careful consideration to every members interests, abilities etc. he and Steve then assigned each member to an appropriate committee(s).
Vocation Service Chair Linda Copp wants to continue with Classification Talks, the Ethics Award, address Elderly Concerns (one of the Social concerns that Ernst raised for his committee) and any other appropriate topic.
International Chair Jane Mason intends to continue with the Ghana water project, and GSE and ambassadorial scholarships. She would also like to have the club participate in Rotary’s wheelchair program. If we donate 100 wheelchairs (@ $75 per chair) to the country of our choice and an ambassador from our club goes with them (only to deliver them).
Youth Service Chair Jim Shibles shared his inspirational story of why he is involved with this area of service. The core of his remarks referred to treating youth like real people, involving them in what is going on. (Editorial comment: This committee appears to be in good hands!).
Spoke 12/19/2013 William Koppenheffer 2013-12-22 00:00:00Z 0
Spoke 12/5/2013 ron carr 2013-12-11 00:00:00Z 0

Clubrunner Version 3.0

Posted by Ron Carr on Dec 10, 2013
We have upgraded to Clubrunner website designer 3.0.
Both the website and the bulletin may look a little different.
If any errors or unwelcome changes are noted, please contact Ron Carr
Clubrunner Version 3.0 Ron Carr 2013-12-11 00:00:00Z 0

December Rotary Song

Rotary, My Rotary
 
Thy praises high I love to sing, Rotary, my Rotary,
My homage now to thee I bring, Rotary, my Rotary,
With friendship, loyalty and cheer, I’ll serve my brothers far and near,
And hold thy precepts ever dear, Rotary, my Rotary.
 
Still louder now my song I’ll swell, Rotary, my Rotary,
And make it ring o’er hill and dell, Rotary, my Rotary,
May truth and honor be my goal, Exalt my life, make sweet my soul,
While thousands sing from pole to pole, Rotary, my Rotary.
December Rotary Song Ron Carr 2013-12-08 00:00:00Z 0

3 New Photo Albums!

Posted by Ron Carr on Nov 24, 2013

A big Thank You to Jim Shibles for photos: 3 new albums added!

On the left side of the Clubrunner screen, toward the bottom, is the list of Photo Albums.

Click on any album to see pics: click on a pic to see it larger.

3 New Photo Albums! Ron Carr 2013-11-25 00:00:00Z 0

Holiday Party December 12

Posted by John Yacavone on Nov 21, 2013

The "Holiday Party" scheduled December 12 in the Dwinell Room at APD cost per person is $20.00 that includes the meal, wine,beer,soft drinks, coffee, tea and a 50/50 drawing. 
Significant others and friends are invited to come!!!

6:00 pm     Social Time

6:45 pm     Rotary Song, Pledge, Invocation (Suellen Griffin), announcements and brags

7:00 pm     Dinner

8:10 pm    PHF presentation
 
8:15 pm     Christmas Songs - Ernst and Betsey Child

8:30 pm     Hanukkah Songs - Bruce Pacht

8:45 pm     50/50 drawing, more social time.

9:00 pm     Bye, Bye and Good Night!

 

 

Holiday Party December 12 John Yacavone 2013-11-22 00:00:00Z 0
Phillipine Disaster Relief Rotary Update Ron Carr 2013-11-22 00:00:00Z 0
2014-2015 Rotary Club of Lebanon Nominees Garlan Hoskin 2013-11-21 00:00:00Z 0
Spoke 11/21/2013 Jay Hutchins 2013-11-21 00:00:00Z 0
Spoke 11/14/2013 Steven Usle 2013-11-14 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke Nov 7 2013

Posted by Ron Carr on Nov 06, 2013
Sorry no Spoke for this date.
Spoke Nov 7 2013 Ron Carr 2013-11-07 00:00:00Z 0
Paul Harris Fellowship #2 Ron Carr 2013-11-01 00:00:00Z 0
Rotary Club of Lebanon Spoke 10/31/2013 Bruce Pacht 2013-11-01 00:00:00Z 0
Lebanon Rotary Spoke 10/24/2013 Dennis Tobin 2013-10-25 00:00:00Z 0
October 24 is World Polio day Ron Carr 2013-10-21 00:00:00Z 0
Spoke 10/17/2013 Garlan Hoskin 2013-10-21 00:00:00Z 0
Spoke September 26, 2013 William Babineau 2013-09-26 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 8/22/2013

Posted by Ron Carr on Aug 21, 2013

 

Image

Date:   August 22, 2013

 

Called to order by:  President Jon Blodgett

 

Opening Song:    Rotary

 

Invocation:  Forest Cole

 

Patriotic Song:  O Beautiful for Spacious Skies

 

Song Leader:  Jim Shibles             Song:  Buffalo Gal

 

Visiting Rotarians:  Ed Nichols, Sebring Florida, Jessie Turner, The Villages, Florida, Scott Osgood, Henniker NH

 

Guests:   None

 

Raffle:  Bruce Pacht, got the right number but not the right card (jack of clubs)

 

Announcements:  Scott Osgood Henniker club announced their Chili Fest in Town all day Saturday August 24th

                                     Bruce Pacht announces at $208 profit from the Fisher Cats Trip, to be put in the Foundation Account

                                     Auction report:  The Byrne Foundation donated $5,000 toward advertising for the Rotary Auction

                                     thanks to Ron Michaud.  Jesse Turner has donated a time share as an item for the auction.

                                    

Brags:                        Ernst had a great vacation on the Cape with his family

                                    Paul Boucher attended his 50th high school reunion and was the youngest looking person in attendance

                                    Forrest Cole bragged about his 44th wedding anniversary.

                                    Steve Usle’s daughter has finally obtained a paying job

                                    Speaker Tim Cohen led a rousing Happy Birthday song for Bruce Pacht, 68 years young but who is counting

 

Rotary Minute:     Ron Carr spoke on Rotary membership. We need to tell the Rotary story to prospective members. A survey

                                    Is presently being prepared to get member input on how to increase our club membership.

 

Speakers:               Acting Lebanon Police Chief Gary Smith and Police Captain Tim Cohen spoke about Neighborhood Initiatives by the       

                                    the Lebanon Police Department. Some of the initiatives are putting officers back on the street, assigning officers

                                   to neighborhoods to get to know its residents, and creating a pamphlet as a guide giving the community ideas

                                    as to watch for in their neighborhoods.  In addition the department has stepped up efforts controlling drug

                                    enforcement and traffic enforcement.

Spoke 8/22/2013 Ron Carr 2013-08-22 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke 8/15/2013

Posted by Donald MacMeekin on Aug 14, 2013

Image 

 Called to order by: Jon Blodgett                 

 Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y          

 Patriotic Song: America       

 Invocation: Dan Affeldt

 Song Leader: Don MacMeekin         Song: Gilligan’s Island

 Visiting Rotarians:

Jesse Turner

Stephen Dates District Governor

Elaine Dates

 Guests:

None

Raffle: Q. what are the shoes the dancers wear called?  A. Point Slippers

Ticket # 783 – Jon Blodgett (loser)

Announcements:

Bruce Pacht – Rotary Pie event may become a co-club event with Riverside

Bruce Pacht – Joe Dashbaugh died of cancer this past week

Jon Blodgett – Friendship Exchange visit Sept. 26th

Jon Blodgett – upcoming Hanover/Lebanon/Riverside club joint social event at Montshire, date to follow

Auction Committee asks the club members to identify person who have secondary vacation properties and ask them to donate a week’s use to the auction.

Brags:

Dan Affeldt – Birthday (way too many)

Lorraine Morrison – Birthday (still young and vibrant)

Richard Detch – ran half marathon (on the tread mill)

Bill Koppenheffer – heading to Chicago to visit their daughter and take a segue tour of the city

Steve Dates – announced yesterday was his hump day. They have visited half of the clubs in the district

Elaine Dates – cudos to our luncheon club for our meeting format and friendship

 Rotary Minute:

  Not a minute to spare

 Speaker: Steve Dates – District Governor

 Theme for year is ENGAGE ROTARY – CHANGE LIVES

 A bit about Steve:  graduated UVM with a degree in Mechanical Engineering.  Worked at IBM for 30 years.  Been married to Elaine for 30 years as well, congrats Steve and Elaine!  Retired form IBM in 1999 and began giving back to the community by serving on the Select Board of Shelburne VT, with two years as Chair.  Voluntarily, did not let power go to his ego, did not run for re-election and began looking in other area to serve.  He found Rotary and his meteoric rise to District Governor.  His hobbies are acoustic guitar, bag pipes (very difficult to master), snow shoeing and geneology.

 ENGAGE ROTARY following the theme from Ron Burton we have to engage Rotarians to avoid stagnation.  Membership in Rotary has remained at 1.2million for the past 5 years.  When you peel back a little on that in North America we bring in 44,000 new Rotarians per year.  We lose 51,000 Rotarians per year.  We need to take action to engage our members and keep them.  Things we can do are:  Welcoming Greeter; interesting and diverse programs; create a first year committee; publish an annual member survey.  All of this to engage members in the club and give them a feeling of belonging and purpose.  Engaged members also result in increased foundation giving.

 CHANGE LIVES by giving back to the community.  You change the lives of the Rotarians and the beneficiaries of the community interaction.  All this is possible by engaged Rotarians!

 The District - over the past 5 years has actually grown by 10 Rotarians.  The District has added two new clubs and has a pending application for a third.

 We need to seek and utilize the public relations grants from RI to enhance our presence in the social media arena which will enhance our contact with the younger generation(s).

The district has set a goal for each club to grow by one member this year.

 Foundation giving back to the Districts has a new formula.  Under the new formula the Districts portion will increase from an average of $11,000 to a number around $60,000

 The District has set up a committee to coordinate our Districts response to Lac Megantic, Quebec Canada train disaster.  Philippe LaBond will be spearheading our efforts to aid the community.

District Conference will be held at the Hilton Hotel in Burlington Vermont beginning on April 25, 2014.  More to follow.

 Finally, Eradication of Polio is in our sites.  There are three countries that have Polio still active.  They are Afghanistan, Pakistan and Nigeria.  In these countries there are few cases.  The cases are in very rural areas.  World Health Organization is indicating it is quite possible we will see the last case of Polio this year!

 Submitted by: Don MacMeekin



Spoke 8/15/2013 Donald MacMeekin 2013-08-15 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke August 8, 2013

Posted by Ron Carr on Aug 07, 2013
Image

Called to order by: Jon Blodgett

Opening Song: R-O-T-A-R-Y

Patriotic Song: My Country Tis Of Thee

Invocation: Mary Detsch

Song Leader: Paul Tierney    Song: Don't Let The Stars Get In Your Eyes

Visiting Rotarians:

None

Guests:

Priscilla Carr, Wife of Ron

Raffle:  Roberta Berner; no luck..

 Announcements:

None

Brags:

Forest:  Had a great time and adventure.  Forest said Jean was right.

Linda:  One of her students received a scholarship.

Jim:  Betsey & Jim recently purchased a Hobie Cat boat.

Nick:  Attended a family reunion with lots of drinking and lots of fun.

 Rotary Minute: Ron Carr: Membership Chairman.  Rotary worldwide has gained 40,000 new members but lost 50,000 members last year. Listed 11 thoughts about how to retain members.

Speaker: Dartmouth Astronomy Professor Brian Charboyer; introduced by Betsey.

The Astronomy Department is comprised of 5 faculty members, 2 postgraduate associates, and 8 graduate students through an introductory course. The Department teaches 400 undergraduates each year

They own a part of telescopes in Arizona and Africa; and own the Windsor Telescope Lab, constructed in 1850.

There is a public observing session every Friday when terms are in session (but only when it is clear).

The Montshire Museum has a number of astronomy-themed exhibits.

Springfield Telescope hosts a public observing called Stellafane, starting in August.

The 15ONJ Comet will be visible sometime in October / November if it makes it past the sun.

 Submitted by: Jamie Whyte

Roles For August 15:

Dan Affeldt    Invocation

Don MacMeekin         Song Leader

Nick Troisi      Greeter

Paul Boucher   Spoke

Rich Wallace   Rotary Minute


Spoke August 8, 2013 Ron Carr 2013-08-08 00:00:00Z 0
Spoke August 1, 2013 Ron Carr 2013-08-01 00:00:00Z 0

Weekly Quote and Joke

Posted by Ron Carr on Jul 29, 2013

Isn't it interesting that the same people who laugh at science fiction listen to weather forecasts and economists? - Kelvin Throop Iii


An older gentleman was on the operating table awaiting surgery, and he insisted that his son, a renowned surgeon, perform the operation.

As he was about to get the anesthesia, he asked to speak to his son.
"Yes, Dad, what is it?"
Don't be nervous son; do your best, and just remember, if it doesn't go well, if something happens to me, your mother is going to come and live with you and your wife.

 

In a 2008 survey, 58% of British teens thought Sherlock Holmes was a real guy, while 20% thought Winston Churchill was not.


 

 

Weekly Quote and Joke Ron Carr 2013-07-30 00:00:00Z 0

Assignments Apr. 25, 2013

Posted by Richard Dyment on Apr 24, 2013

Please let us know of any vacation plans so we can leave you off assignments during that period.  Please do this by checking your name on the new form at the check-in table at the meeting.

Thursday, April 25, 2013

  • Spoke:  Jean Flaherty-Wulpern
  • Invocation:  Suellen Griffin
  • Rotary Minute:  Shawn Barlow
  • Song Leader:  Steve Usle
  • Greeter:  Michael Weins

 Thursday, May 2, 2013

  • Spoke:  Shawn Barlow
  • InvocationBetsey Child
  • Rotary Minute:  Nick Troisi
  • Song Leader:  Suellen Griffin
  • Greeter:  Kevin Gould
Assignments Apr. 25, 2013 Richard Dyment 2013-04-25 00:00:00Z 0

Spoke: Apr. 18, 2013

Posted by Richard Dyment on Apr 17, 2013

Spoke for April 18 recorded by Eunice Rescott.  Great job Eunice!

The Spoke Newsletter of the Rotary Club of Lebanon, New Hampshire

Call to Order:  President Jon. 

Opening Song:  "R-O-T-A-R-Y", led by Ernst

Patriotic Song:  "America The Beautiful".

Invocation:  Paul Boucher

Song:  Dave Robinson led us in “Acres Of Clams”.

Visiting Rotarians:  None.

Guests:  Guest of Ernst was Derick Jones of Chihuahua, Mexico, who is interning at Ernst’s office.  

Rotary Minute:

Raffle:  The queen is still out there somewhere.

Announcements:

  • District Assembly will take place on Saturday, April 27th, at the Hanover High School. All are welcome. No charge. Learn about the New Generations

  • Bruce attended the Charter Ceremony for the newly formed Ossipee Valley Club. He was presented with a Club banner for our collection. 

  • Bruce is helping to organize a pie event on July 4th: 7:30 to 10:00 at the senior center.  All Rotarians must participate in some way. He has assigned sub-committees and each of us will  be recruited to assist on one of these committees.  Proceeds from this event will go to the senior center and Polio Plus.

Brags: 

  •  Dan attended a Bio-mass Engineering conference in Saratoga Springs. Ran into some folks he knew and walked away with lots of stimulating ideas about economical ways to heat and cool buildings. 

  • Paul B has served 39 in Rotary and 55 years in the Boy Scouts. 

  • Jane has a cousin and niece who were spared any harm at the Boston marathon, but a another niece who barely escaped an apartment fire.  Good news—her brother will soon be a grandfather. 

  • Bruce talked about the 75th anniversary of the world’s largest male singing organization—Barbershop Harmony Society.

  • Rick was a little down in the dumps about the recent City Council vote, but was uplifted by the singing of our National Anthem at a recent sporting event.  Everyone in the arena was singing.   

  • Willy reminded us that it was 243 years ago that our friend Paul Revere made his famous ride.

Speaker: 

  • After reciting his traditional ‘ode to spring’, Forrest introduced our two speakers: Bill Sahlman and Bob Gasser.  

  • Bill, a member of the White River Club, is working on a Designated District Grant. If he is successful with local support and the application process, $10,000 will be available to assist the Grafton County Drug Court.  He is soliciting five local Clubs, asking for a $1000.00 donation of support from each. Rotary will match this $5000.00.  He then asked Bob Gasser to talk to us about the Drug Court. 

  • When Bob moved to this area he had already helped establish a Drug Court in Toms River, NJ.  He had been on the ground floor of the program’s creation. Although the program had early skeptics (including himself), the structured program proved to be very successful. Our local program, that Bob had a hand in developing, has now had 10 graduation ceremonies in it’s 7 years of existence. There are 20 participants at all times.  These participants are non-violent felons who have committed another offence. They are given a choice to either go to jail and serve their sentence, or join the drug court program. They must follow all of the required protocols of the drug court.  If they do not, they go immediately to jail.

  • Of the 70 folks who qualified and accepted the challenge of the drug court, 52% completed the program and attended a graduation ceremony.  There are numerous success stories associated with these participants and Bob offered to return another time with a graduate. 

  •  Meeting Closed: By President Jon at 1:30.

Spoke: Apr. 18, 2013 Richard Dyment 2013-04-18 00:00:00Z 0

January Report from Haley Karr

Posted by Ron Carr on Jan 30, 2012

Hi Everyone!

 

So January has been a really slow month in comparison to all of the holiday festivities in December. I started it off by going to this really fancy New Year's Eve party with my parents and sister. Of course, the party started at midnight with popping the champagne bottle and fireworks, and then continued the rest of the night with dancing and music. It is also tradition to wear white, so it was so cool having the whole party be a white out under the colored lights. 

 

Besides that, really nothing has happened. My holidays ended on the 18th, so now I am back to school. The school also has a lot more rules now, and since I am now started the last year of high school it has gotten harder too. This is good because it forces me to learn and improve my Portuguese..but sometimes it is just so tiring trying to stay focused in another language.

 

I was pretty bummed out because my family had told me that we would be traveling to the south of Brazil during the holidays, but then they changed their mind and are now going to Cancun during March. They invited me to join them, but it was way to expensive to travel to Mexico, especially when I am supposed to be learning about Brazil. I still am a little upset about my holidays because I had this huge block of time, and wasn't able to do anything with it. I think this feeling had a lot to do with the fact that my two best friends were traveling the whole time, one of them being the Mexican exchange student, Jaime. He was gone for over a month first traveling between traveling with his first two families, and he got to know so many other parts of Brazil. I definitely can say that jealousy was a part of my emotions. 

 

But things brightened up pretty quickly when Jaime's family invited me to travel with them for Carnival!! I will go with them to Porto Seguro, which I have been told is one of the best spots for Carnival in the entire country! It will be so much fun. When people think of Brazilian Carnival in the United States, they just picture the parade in Rio de Janeiro, but the Brazilians think of that city as "Carnival for old people" because it is just watching the parade, where as in other cities (like Porto Seguro) it is much more interactive and everyone gets be a part of it. I will be staying there for 12 days, living in a house with Jaime, his family, and then 5 other people from a different city who rented the house with us. It will be so much fun, and I can't wait to tell you how it goes!!

 

My first family just came back from a month long trip to the United States for the first time. They toured Miami, Orlando, and New York, and they absolutely loved it! It made me so happy that now they have been able to experience and learn more about my county and culture at the same time I am learning about theirs.

 

I will me moving to my third family later this week, and I think it will be a much easier transition than the first move. Now I know what to expect, and have learned that I can't compare the families. I am going into it excited and with an open mind. 

 

Good luck to the new class of Out-bounds, and please let them know that I am more than happy to answer any questions. It is also important for them to know that it doesn't matter what country they get placed with. The experience is about the people that you meet, and the chance of a life time to really live in a culture that is different than your own. Brazil was actually not even on my list of 5 countries, I had to choose it because all of my first choices were full. But this is completely irrelevant. I feel like Brazil is the perfect place for me, and that each country will offer it's own unique experience if you let it. 

 

Beijos!

Haley

January Report from Haley Karr Ron Carr 2012-01-31 00:00:00Z 0
Feb 4 "Hearts of the Valley" Dance Betsey Child 2012-01-09 00:00:00Z 0
Haley Karr's December Report Ron Carr 2012-01-01 00:00:00Z 0
Rotary Foundation and Paul Harris Fellowship Kevin Gould 2011-11-03 00:00:00Z 0
Quote of the Week - Who Said It? Ron Carr 2008-10-06 00:00:00Z 0
Thought for the Week - Who Said It? Ron Carr 2008-10-06 00:00:00Z 0
Mark Your Calendars! Ron Carr 2008-10-06 00:00:00Z 0
Flavors of Africa Event Ron Carr 0
Spoke 10/10/2013 Kevin Gould 0

Spoke 10/3/2013

Posted by Ron Carr

Sorry, no Spoke for this week.

Please remember to inform Ron Carr when you will be absent for any period of time, or a specific assignment.

Spoke 10/3/2013 Ron Carr 0

Assignments 10/17/2013 - 10/24/2013

Posted by Ron Carr

Thursday, October 17, 2013
Dan Affeldt                         Song Leader
Dennis G. Tobin                  Rotary Minute
Garlan Hoskin                     Spoke
Rich Wallace                       Invocation
Steve Whitman                   Greeter

Thursday, October 24, 2013
Bill Koppenheffer                 Invocation
Dennis G. Tobin                   Spoke
Jay Hutchins                        Greeter
Ron Michaud                        Song Leader
Steve Usle                            Rotary Minute



Assignments 10/17/2013 - 10/24/2013 Ron Carr 0
Spoke 09/19/2013 John Yacavone 0
Rotary Exchange Schedule Ron Carr 0
Spoke 9/12/2013 David Robinson 0
Auction 2013! Ron Carr 0
Assignments 9/26 - 10/3 Ron Carr 0

Auction 2013

Posted by Ron Carr

Image

October 5 2013, New Hypertherm Building on Heater Road. On-Line auction starts September 21.

This year's recipient is "Mental Health First Aid", a program that helps residents of a community know how to identify persons who are on the edge and what to do to get them help. 

Don MacMeekin and his committee are already hard at work on this project.

But as always it's success or failure will depend on every Rotarian helping to find donors!

Note Solicitation Letter and Contribution forms, and this poster, are on the Downloads page.

 
Auction 2013 Ron Carr 0
New Photos in Photo Albums! Ron Carr 0
How to look up members of the club Ron Carr 0

Haley Karr's March 2012 Report

Posted by Bruce Pacht

Hello folks,

Here’s the latest report from Haley Karr in Paraiso do Tocantins, Brazil.

Only three more moths before her return to New England and the culture shock of her young life!

Bruce

Haley Karr's March 2012 Report Bruce Pacht 0
The Man and THE CAR! Ron Carr 0

Centennial Fountain Pictures

Posted by Ron Carr

Check out Photo Albums - Centennial Fountain for some new pictures!

More new pictures added 6/27/2011 thanks to Bruce Pacht... 

Centennial Fountain Pictures Ron Carr 0

Lebanon Rotary on CATV

Posted by Ron Carr

Ron Michaud has been taking videos of some of our meetings.

They can be accessed by going to http://catv8.org/: click on Videos on Demand, then enter "rotary" in the Search box and search.

Our videos will be listed and you can select one to watch.

Note that these have been shown on CATV but some towns do not receive CATV.

Ron Carr 

Lebanon Rotary on CATV Ron Carr 0
2011-2012 Board of Directors Ron Carr 0
Strategic Plan Outline Ron Carr 0