St. Johnsbury Rotary, NKHS Announce Community Service Awards Recipients
Each year, the St. Johnsbury Rotary Club gives Community Service awards to area high school seniors going on to post-secondary education or pursuing technical/vocational training. Students at St. Johnsbury Academy, Danville High School and Hazen Union High School are eligible to apply.
An application process takes place and includes: a letter from the student, outlining their community service and their plans for the future; a statement of need; letters of recommendations; and a resume of community service. All applicants need to reflect the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self.”
St. Johnsbury Rotary partners with Northeast Kingdom Human Services (NKHS) to provide an additional service award opportunity for local graduating seniors who are furthering their education in the human services/mental health areas at a college in Vermont. This annual award is being made through NKHS’s Wellness Committee.
This year’s recipients of St. Johnsbury Rotary’s $1,500 Community Service Awards are Lilian Kittredge and Madison Langdell.
Lilian Kittredge, a 2023 graduate of St. Johnsbury Academy, plans to attend Norwich University in the fall to pursue a degree in Nursing. She is the daughter of Jessica Burnham and Jesse Kittredge.
Lilian is also the recipient of the NKHS $750 award.
Madison Langdell, a 2023 graduate of Hazen Union School, plans to attend SUNY (State University of New York) Plattsburg in the fall, majoring in Business Administration. She is the daughter of Tonya and Brian Langdell.
This year’s sponsors of St. Johnsbury Rotary make it possible for the club to offer these Community Service Awards to the graduating seniors: Northern Counties Health Care; Century 21 Farm & Forest; Pete & Gerry’s; Celtic Marketing; Anthony’s Diner; Begin Realty Associates; Fred’s Energy; Graves Builders; Life Insight Coaching & Consulting; Locally Social Coffee; Adler & McCabe, PLC; Dan Wyand PT & Associates; Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital; All About Flowers; Joe’s Repair; Community National Bank; Union Bank; and Maple Grove Farms.
We are now accepting applications for the 2023 St. Johnsbury Rotary Educational Awards. This year we are offering two awards for $1,500 each. And thanks to a partnership with Northeast Kingdom Human Services, we are offering an additional $750 award to an applicant who is continuing their education in a human services or mental health related field. Apply today! Applications are due by May 12th.
Open to graduating seniors with plans to further their education who are from St. Johnsbury Academy, Danville High School, and Hazen Union School. Find the application here.
Applications are now also being accepted for the Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA) conference. This is an excellent opportunity for students who are completing their sophomore year. Deadline to apply is May 15th. More info and application can be found here.
Now Accepting Applications for Educational Awards & RYLA Scholarships
Mark M. Smith was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship by his wife, St. Johnsbury Rotarian Rosie Smith, during St. Johnsbury Rotary Club's social gathering Feb. 23 at the St. Johnsbury Distillery. As a result of her donations to The Rotary Foundation over the last 25 years, Rosie, who is already a Paul Harris Fellow, chose to bestow this honor on her husband. Donors of $1,000 or more to the Annual Programs Fund, PolioPlus or the Humanitarian Grants Program through the Rotary Foundation, or people who have that amount contributed in their name, can be recognized as Paul Harris Fellows. “Rotarians have a tradition of supporting the Foundation by honoring others. At the International Assembly in 1979, incoming Rotary International President James Bomar challenged each Rotary club to make one non-Rotarian a Paul Harris Fellow. The Rotary Club of Pikesville, Maryland, USA, responded by making a donation in the name of Mother Teresa in 1980 … Many other notable figures have been named Paul Harris Fellows, including U.S. President Jimmy Carter, Russian President Boris Yeltsin, U.S. astronaut James Lovell, UN Secretary-General Javier Perez de Cuellar, and polio vaccine developer Jonas Salk. Shown with the Smiths is Jamie Milne, at right, the St. J Club's Rotary Foundation chair.
Cornerstone School’s annual Holiday Boutique was especially successful this year due to the support of the St. Johnsbury Rotary Club and members of the surrounding community. The Rotary Club collected thousands of new and gently-used items to stock the boutique with jewelry, holiday decor, toys, household items, toiletries, books and musical instruments. Students used “kindness cash” to make thoughtful purchases for family and friends. Families were also offered the opportunity to shop during a holiday luncheon. Shown during a successful shopping day are: front row, Asher Lin and Jeanne Graham, program director at the school, as well as a Rotarian; middle row, Sebastian Seroni and Dominic Renaudette; and back row, St. Johnsbury Rotary President Jay Miller, Alex Lunnie, Dylan Boardman and Rotarian Emily Giddings. (Courtesy photo)
Rotary Supports Cornerstone School Holiday Boutique
The St. Johnsbury Rotary Club recently partnered with Boxcar & Caboose, located in downtown St. Johnsbury, to hold a book drive on Oct. 1 to benefit the library at Cornerstone School in St. Johnsbury. The school supplied a wish list of 38 books that they hope will be added to the library. For three hours, volunteers from the Rotary club manned the table that displayed a number of the books. Patrons could purchase the books, which will then be donated to the school. In first photo, Amelia Evans holds some of the “wished for” books. In second photo, Quinn Miller arranges the selections available.
St. Johnsbury Rotary Club members banded together on July 16 to beautify the Three Rivers Path Trailhead Pavilion at 195 Bay St. in St. Johnsbury, thanks to a grant provided by Rotary District 7850 (representing 42 clubs in Vermont, New Hampshire and Canada) which made the project possible. Other funds for the project were raised through the club's St. Patrick’s Day dinner for 2 fundraiser with Salt Bistro in 2021.
The Town of St. Johnsbury worked with the club to make this project a reality and prepped the garden beds. Discover St. Johnsbury provided support for the plan and ideas and spread the word to local businesses. The mulch came from Kirby Mulch Company LLC.
The club's newest president for the 2022-2023 Rotary year, Jay Miller, of J Miller Landscape Architecture, put together the design, picked up the plants, and kept the volunteers on track during the project.
"After years of planning it was great to see this project become reality and help beautify a great place for people in the community to enjoy for years to come." said Miller. "There are so many people and organizations within the community that made this possible and we could not have done it without them. I hope everybody enjoys the new plantings."
The Trailhead Pavilion is situated at the eastern end of the 93-mile Lamoille Valley Rail Trail. The structure was built as a way to connect the Three Rivers Bike Path to the downtown.
St. Johnsbury Rotary Club Begins New Year With Changeover Recognitions
The St. Johnsbury Rotary Club held its Changeover meeting, in preparation for the 2022-2023 Rotary Year, on June 29, presided over by outgoing president, Brynn Evans.
Evans highlighted some of the Club’s accomplishments for the 2021-2022 Rotary Year:
Service and Fundraising Activities: donated thousands of masks to schools, the welcome center, and other non-profits; provided volunteers and outreach for six Red Cross Blood drives held at the Moose Lodge throughout the year; volunteers read stories at the Athenaeum, and worked during Get Downtown events, worked on Green Up Day; held the annual fruit fundraiser; held a drive at Job Lots in St. Johnsbury for wellness/fun kits for kids — the project of high school senior Emily Ely and in partnership with NEKCA; provided monetary support, assisted with planning and took part in a playground build at Cornerstone School; held a Speech Contest for high school students; provided Community Service Awards to three students and started a new partnership with NKHS to offer an additional award; sent a student from the club’s service area to RYLA, and made it possible for a student from another club in the district to attend; provided more than 6,000 meals to the community through the outreach program, distributed through the NEK Council on Aging; prepped the area around the Bay Street Trailhead Pavilion, thanks in part to funds received through the 2021 St. Patrick’s Day fundraiser and a district grant; held the second annual St. Patrick’s Day Dinner to-go fundraiser.
Donations made during the year included: supporting an international project with Natron Health Care to provide anemia test kits in Tanzania; scholarships for youth to attend athletic sports camps through RecFit; continued support of the youth library at the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum by providing book dedications for the club's speakers; Caledonia County Fair; Fairbanks Museum; First Night North; HELP (shared heat program); Kiwanis pool; District 7850 changeover service project, Rise Against Hunger; Santa Fund; St. Johnsbury Baseball and Softball associations; St. Johnsbury Senior Meal Program.
Because the annual Rotary Basketball Basketball Tournament, an annual fundraiser for the club, was once again called off this past year because of COVID, local businesses provided funding to the club in support of its many projects: Champion Sponsors — Community National Bank, Milne Financial Planning, NFP, NVRH and Passumpsic Savings Bank. Promoter Sponsors — Celtic Marketing, Edward Jones, Northern Counties Health Care, r.k. Miles, Union Bank and Wells River Chevrolet. Supporter Sponsors — Adler & McCabe PLC, Anthony’s Diner, Barrett Insurance Agency LLC, Community Restorative Justice Center, Dan Wyand PT & Associates and Weidmann.
The following awards and special recognition took place:
Honorary St. Johnsbury Rotary memberships were present to two former members. Honorary Rotarian status is used to recognize people who have distinguished themselves by meritorious service and who embody Rotary ideals, or those considered friends of Rotary for their support of Rotary’s causes. The Club’s Board voted to present honorary memberships to Rosie Smith and Archie Prevost. Evans highlighted their service:
“Rosie has been a member of Rotary for more than 20 years, serving as president of the Club for 2007-2008; as assistant governor for District 7850 from 2008-2011, and was in line to be District 7850 Governor (prior to her move to Texas). Rosie was named Rotarian of the Year for the club for the 2008-2009 Rotary year.
“As a member of the club, she kept The Caledonian-Record informed of all the club’s meetings, speakers, events and awards. She organized and recruited the basketball referees to officiate during one of the main fundraisers for the club (the Rotary Basketball Tournament) and served as a referee herself. She also secured auction items for the club’s silent auctions … I’m sure there is much more! Rosie was a joy to have at meetings and her positive attitude was greatly appreciated. In addition, Rosie continues to support our club. She writes articles about our activities for the Caledonian-Record, was willing to assist with referees for the basketball tournament … and was a judge for our community service award process.”
Evans also acknowledged Prevost’s contributions to the club: “Archie was a member of Rotary for more than 40 years. One of our members described him as ‘everybody’s favorite member’ and the ‘most active member — he would volunteer and help with everything.”
Archie was named Rotarian of the year for 2002-2003 and served as president during the Rotary year of 1984-1985. He was also named a Paul Harris Fellow. Archie was the Sargent-at-Arms and led in the singing for years. He stayed in touch with inactive Rotarians and wrote Rotary Foundation notes; he led service projects, and more. He was instrumental in putting together floats for the town parades.
“Thank you, Archie, for all you have done for our community and for our Rotary club. We all hope our club lives up to the example you set," said Evans.
Two Paul Harris Fellow pins were presented to Susan Cherry and Bruce Corrette. These pins are presented to individuals when they donate $1,000 to the Rotary Foundation Annual Fund, PolioPlus, or an approved Foundation grant. People may also be recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow when the amount is contributed in their name.
Evans also presented three special awards. The first one, the Change Maker Award, was given to incoming president, Jay Miller. Miller joined the club in the early days of the pandemic, and “brought enthusiasm, energy, and effort — helping to lead service projects, taking part in meetings, and was always willing to chat about ways our club could continue to have an impact on the community, despite the challenges we faced," according to Evans. He agreed to be the vice president before being a member for a full year. Miller helped the club to envision a new way of doing things and will lead the club in focusing on service to the community.
Evan presented the Inspirational Rotarian Award to Bruce Corrette. “Bruce has been a member of the club for the past 54 years! He was Rotarian of the Year in 1976-77 and President from 1977-1978. He has been a leader in our club, filling many roles, and always taking part as an active member.”
Corrette was one of the first Paul Harris Fellows for the club and this year he became a member of the Paul Harris Society. The Paul Harris Society recognizes Rotary members and friends of The Rotary Foundation who elect to contribute $1,000 or more each year to the Annual Fund, PolioPlus Fund, or approved global grants.
Evans added, “The club did not have anyone who had received the Paul Harris Fellow designation after more than 50 years as a club. So a group of members, including Bruce, all put money into a fund to raise the $1,000 amount … they chose someone out of the group to receive the designation. The first person was Dr. Edward Cramton. He ended up writing a check out for the full amount, and that left 5 others to be chosen, including Bruce. Bruce said he waited until the other 4 people (Wesley Calderwood, Frank Landry, Laine Vance and Sterry Waterman) were pinned before accepting his pin.”
The last award — Rotarian of the Year Award — was presented to Jim McFaul.
Evans said, “Jim’s belief in our youth programs, international projects, and more has kept some of our traditional projects going. Jim led our work as sponsors of the Red Cross Blood Drive at the Moose Lodge … He volunteered for every single blood drive — taking time out of his work day to volunteer 6 or more hours each time, as well as encouraging others to help and coordinating with those volunteers."
McFaul organized the club’s St. Johnsbury Rotary Speech Contest and Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA) scholarship program. He helped undertake an International Project, coordinating with Melanie Finn of Natron Healthcare to support anemia test kits for women in Tanzania. He was also instrumental in coordinating a donation to support youth athletic camps through the St. Johnsbury Recreation Department.
Evans congratulated McFaul, saying, “You are always willing to step up to help when needed, working behind the scenes to help our club work. This even includes picking up the Rotary mail on a regular basis … As a board member, your input, advice, and support helped us to move forward, and I appreciate how you helped us to look at things from various perspectives. Jim, your contributions this year have been phenomenal and we are so grateful for all you have done!”
In addition to the Rotarian of the Year plaque, McFaul was also given a Paul Harris Fellow recognition.
Under the 2022-2023 theme for Rotary, “Imagine Rotary,” the new leadership for the St. Johnsbury Rotary Club was welcomed: President Jay Miller; President Elect Barry Waldner; Treasurer Brynn Evans (Bob Hersey was acknowledged for having filled this role for a number of years); Assistant Treasurer Katheryn Laferriere; and Secretary Jamie Milne.
Outgoing St. Johnsbury Rotary president, Brynn Evans, presents awards to longtime members, from left, Bruce Corrette and Archie Prevost.
St. Johnsbury Rotarians, from left, Bruce Corrette, Archie Prevost, Vern Forthun and Don Bostic, during the club’s changeover meeting June 29.
Brynn Evans and Joy Ely present a donation on behalf of St. Johnsbury Rotary to Rich Alercio and Julia Kearney from RecFit, representing the St Johnsbury Recreation Department. The $1,000 donation will provide scholarships to help kids attend this year's Hilltopper Summer Sports Camps. For more information on Sports Camps at St Johnsbury Academy or scholarship opportunities contact RecFit at 802-751-2305.
"Our Rotary Club is proud to support our area youth with this donation. We have a long-standing tradition of making donations to help kids attend summer camps," said Brynn Evans, President of St. Johnsbury Rotary. "Our members know that summer activities are an important part of keeping kids engaged and active. Thank you to St. Johnsbury Academy for making these camps possible."
Thank you to our Champion Sponsors who make donations like this possible: Milne Financial Planning, NVRH, Community National Bank, Passumpsic Bank, and NFP
Each year, St. Johnsbury Rotary gives Community Service awards to area high school seniors going on to post-secondary education or pursuing technical/vocational training. Students at St. Johnsbury Academy, Danville High School and Hazen Union High School are eligible to apply.
An application process takes place and includes: a letter from the student, outlining their community service and their plans for the future; a statement of need; letters of recommendations; and a resume of community service. All applicants need to reflect the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self.”
Starting this year, St. Johnsbury Rotary is partnering with Northeast Kingdom Human Services (NKHS) to provide an additional service award opportunity for local graduating seniors who are furthering their education in the human services/mental health areas at a college in Vermont. This annual award is being made through NKHS’s Wellness Committee and is provided by donations their employees make on “Jeans Days.”
This year’s recipients of St. Johnsbury Rotary’s $1,000 Community Service Awards are Allie Beliveau, Liza Morse and Zeb Kane.
Allie Beliveau, a 2022 graduate of Danville High School, plans to attend White Mountains Community College in the fall to study in the Culinary Arts field. She is the daughter of Stacie Ruggles and Chris Beliveau.
Liza Morse, also a 2022 graduate of Danville High School, plans to attend Dartmouth College in the fall, majoring in Biology and minoring in Music. She is the daughter of Spencer and Lauren Morse.
Zeb Kane, a 2022 graduate of St. Johnsbury Academy, plans to attend Champlain College this fall, majoring in Business Administration. He is the son of Adam and Andrea Kane.
Lauren Thomas, a 2022 graduate of Hazen Union School in Hardwick, is the recipient of the Northeast Kingdom Human Services Service $200 award. She plans to attend Castleton University in the fall, pursuing a degree in Nursing. She is the daughter of Peggy Thomas and Mark Fletcher.
This years sponsors of the St. Johnsbury Rotary Club make it possible for the club to offer these Community Service Awards to the graduating seniors: Milne Financial Planning, Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital, Community National Bank, Passumpsic Savings Bank and NFP.
Carol Breen,NKHS HR Benefits Coordinator & Wellness Committee Chair; Melynda Miller, St. Johnsbury Rotary Club’s Service Award Chair; and Heidi Broome, NKHS Admin Assistant & Case Manager in the Developmental Service Program
St. Johnsbury Rotary club is pleased to announce a new partnership between the club and Northeast Kingdom Human Services to provide an additional service award opportunity for local graduating seniors.
Each year, St. Johnsbury Rotary gives Community Service Awards to area high school seniors going on to post-secondary education or pursuing technical/vocational training. Students at St. Johnsbury Academy, Danville High School, and Hazen Union High School are eligible to apply. All applicants need to reflect the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self.”
Starting this year, Northeast Kingdom Human Services (NKHS) is partnering to provide additional funding for high school students who are furthering their education in the human services/mental health areas at a college in Vermont. This annual donation is being made through NKHS’s Wellness Committee and is provided by donations their employees make on “Jeans Days.”
The deadline to apply for the St. Johnsbury Rotary Community Service Award is fast approaching. Applications need to be received by this Friday, May 6, 2022. Those who would like to take advantage of the opportunity provided by NKHS should note on their application if they are pursuing a degree in Human Services at a college in Vermont.
St. Johnsbury Rotary held the annual Club Speech Contest on Monday, March 14, 2022 via zoom. Three St. Johnsbury Academy Students from Tom Lovett's Speech Class competed.
The topic was "How can your school partner with Rotary to change lives?"
Payton Molleur was the winner with his speech on ideas for St. Johnsbury Academy and St. Johnsbury Rotary to partner to help raise the voices of marginalized individuals, help foster connections between community leaders and individuals who are experiencing financial insecurity or homelessness, and to raise the alarm on these issues through seminars, conferences, and public outreach.
2nd place was Clara Andre with her speech about creating a Rotary Women's Mentorship Program to provide professional mentorship for female students who are interested in business. This could also include an Annual Women in Leadership Conference.
3rd place was Greer Kennedy with her speech on creating a leadership media platform for high school students that could provide peer tutoring, international connections, and service & youth leadership opportunities.
Payton will go on to compete in the Rotary District 7850 round of the speech contest to be held on May 7th. Thank you to all of the students for their inspiring ideas!
St. Johnsbury Rotary Club member, Bruce Corrette, recently achieved the Paul Harris plus-6 designation for his support of the Rotary Foundation. A member of the St. Johnsbury Rotary Club for 53 years, he has been an inspiration to other Rotarians, and a true believer in the mission of Rotary. He will also become a member of the Paul Harris Society — those who give a $1,000 a year to the Rotary Foundation.
Jamie Milne, chair of the Club’s Rotary Foundation, said, “Bruce has been a long time member of the St. Johnsbury Rotary Club. Not only has he supported our club’s service projects, he has supported the Rotary Foundation and is a multiple Paul Harris Award recipient. Members receive a Paul Harris Award for every $1,000 they donate to the Rotary Foundation. Bruce’s leadership in our community is a great example of Rotary’s motto, “service above self.” We are proud and lucky to have him as a member of our club.”
Of his award, Bruce said, “I give to the Rotary Foundation because I’d do anything to support Rotary’s programs and they need this money to fight Polio.”
Bruce is one of the first members of the St. Johnsbury club to become a Paul Harris fellow. Jamie Milne, at right, recently presented him with the award.
Bruce Corrette Presented Paul Harris Plus-6 Designation
St. Johnsbury Rotary continues to have adult and children disposable masks available for donation to the local community. These donations are made possible by the Ted Rossi Foundation and the New England Rotary Million Mask Challenge through Rotary District 7850. Interested groups, organizations, and businesses should email stjrotaryclub@gmail.com to request donations.
President Brynn Evans recently delivered 3,000 kids' masks to the St. Johnsbury School and is shown here with school Facilities Staff Jon Winot.
St. Johnsbury Rotary Names Education Award Recipients
St. Johnsbury Rotary Club recently announced the recipients of the club’s annual Educational Awards: David Richardson, of St. Johnsbury, a graduate of Danville School; and Kylee LaPete, of Danville, a graduate of St. Johnsbury Academy. These students were chosen based on their community service, exemplifying Rotary’s motto of “Service Above Self.”
Every year, the St. Johnsbury Club presents education awards to area high school seniors going on to post-secondary education or pursuing technical/vocational training. Students from schools within the Club’s service area are eligible to apply and include St. Johnsbury Academy, Danville School and Hazen Union School. An application process takes place and includes: a letter from the student, outlining their community service and their plans for the future; a statement of need; letters of recommendations; and a resume of community service.
David plans to attend the University of Vermont this fall, majoring in Political Science.
Kylee plans to attend Montana State University this fall, majoring in Nursing.
Each of these students will receive $1,000 to use toward their college plans.
St. Johnsbury Rotary Club Welcomes New Leadership For 2021-2022
The St. Johnsbury Rotary Club held it's annual Club Changeover on June 21, conducted by outgoing president, Katheryn Laferriere, and welcoming 2021-2022 club president, Brynn Evans, along with the new president-elect, Jay Miller.
To begin the meeting, Katheryn spoke of the challenges presented to her during a year of a pandemic: "I want to take a minute to just recognize the strange and unprecedented set of circumstances that Covid-19 threw at us this year … and how our club rallied and turned those lemons into lemonade.
"For me, I’d never thought about meeting virtually before. Then, just as I was supposed to take over as President last summer, I also was offered a job out of town that would have prevented me from fulfilling my obligation as President. Any other year, I would have had to resign. But because of the strange circumstances of this past year, because of Zoom, and our club’s willingness to change, I was able to preside over all the meetings from my office in New Hampshire.
"What a blessing that was for me. It was such a comfort to stay connect to all of you and my community during that time. Thank you for being there for me and for being willing to be so flexible."
Katheryn then recognized the special efforts made by several Rotarians during the 2020-21 year.
SJA Director of Recreation Joe Fox accepting a donation from St. Johnsbury Rotary Club. The check was presented by President Elect Brynn Evans.
The recent March for Kamp community fundraiser sponsored by St. Johnsbury Rotary Club, successfully raised funds to provide scholarships for local youth to attend St. Johnsbury Recreation Department’s Kamp IWannaHavFun!
St. Johnsbury Rotary President Katheryn Laferriere stated, “Our club is so grateful for all the work that Kamp IWannaHavFun does for the benefit of the children in our community. We’re thrilled for the outpouring of support for our 1st ever March for Kamp event and thank all those who participated.”
Participants donated $31 to walk 31 miles in the 31 days of March and their efforts raised just over $2,800 for the scholarships. The Rotary Club donated an additional $1,000 to the effort.
On February 22nd, Mary Parent was inducted as the newest member of our club. Mary was welcomed during our regular weekly zoom meeting.
Mary is a corporate and commercial attorney with Downs Rachlin Martin PLLC, practicing primarily in Vermont and New Hampshire. She is a native Vermonter and has lived in the NEK with her family since 2005. Mary is committed to being a part of the community and adds Rotary to her long list of past and present involvement.
Mary currently serves as Vice-Chair for the NVRH board and is on the St. Johnsbury regional advisory board for Union Bank. She also chairs a professional responsibility panel for the Vermont Bar Association.
Mary resides in St. Johnsbury with her husband and two sons. In her spare time she enjoys gardening and hiking with her dog.
We are excited to sponsor this fundraiser for St. Johnsbury Recreation Department's popular Kamp IWannaHavFun.
MARCH FOR KAMP is a challenge to walk 31 miles in the 31 days of March. Registration is $31 with all proceeds supporting Kamp IWannaHavFun scholarships!
Can YOU spare a dollar and a mile a day to help send kids to Kamp?
Rotary District 7850 is offering a great opportunity to club members and the community. Register today for this FREE virtual event being held on January 16th at 9:00am. Register online: https://rotarydistrict7850.regfox.com/hollett-and-earle
Rotary District 7850 presents Shari Hollett and Chris Earle teaching communication, collaboration and presentation skills by Zoom.
Writer-Actor-Directors alumni of The Second City improv comedy troupe, Shari Hollett and Chris Earle have been teaching communication, collaboration and presentation skills for over 20 years to corporate, government and non-profit clients across North America. As longtime directors and actors in theatre and comedy, they have developed their own special brand of workshops - using their performing and improvisation "know how" to create a fun, challenging and invaluable experience for your group or business. With improvisation as their foundation, these workshops enhance existing skills, and develop new ones that help take your team to the next level.
District 7850 Event - Shari Hollett and Chris Earle
Cars lined up to participate in the November Veggie Van Go.
Thank you to our Rotary Club for your continued support of the monthly Veggie Van Go held at NVRH. Our Rotary Volunteers are especially helpful with traffic control.
This month, healthy food was provided to 423 families. In addition to food, recipients received recipes for beet and carrot salad and no crust pumpkin pie. These recipes can be found at foodhero.org.
Amelia Evans (middle), daughter of Rotarian Brynn Evans, donates masks to Barnet School. Staff from the school are (L to R) Ruth Vaal, Eric Bogie and Angel Roy.
Thanks to the Ted Rossi Foundation and the New England Rotary Million Mask Challenge, St. Johnsbury Rotary has been donating masks to area schools and day care providers. Our local Rotary Club received 2000 medical disposable masks for donation to the community.
We still have masks to donate. If you know of a community group or business that is in need of masks, please let us know. Jay Miller is the current contact for tracking the mask donations.
St. Johnsbury Rotary and NEKCA garnered $260 in donations and nearly 700 pounds of food and supplies.
Rotarian and NEKCA representative Joy Ely and Rotarian Jay Miller man the table at The White Market in St. Johnsbury on October 24th.
St. Johnsbury Rotary and NEKCA teamed up on October 24, 2020 to solicit donations from the community of food and supplies for Northeast Kingdom Community Action. Rotarians Jay Miller and Joy Ely, with support by fellow club members, worked together to inform the community of the needs for NEKCA's Parent Child Center through the Give a Little, Help A Lot Drive. In addition to collecting donations, the group also handed out free masks, children's books and activity kits, and community resource information.
Heather Winkler joined us at our Monday, October 19th meeting and shared her moving and inspiring story of her family's personal experience with polio. She specifically shared stories about her mother's experience with having polio and becoming a disability rights advocate. Her mother, Sue Williams, went on to help form the Vermont Center for Independent Living, which is still active today. There is a fund at VCIL named after Heather's mom, the Sue Williams Freedom Fund, that provides funding for services and equipment to help people with disabilities achieve or maintain independence in their own homes. Heather's words tell the story best so we encourage you to watch the video (above) of her presentation to our club.
Rotary District 7850 is pleased to announce that Keynote Speaker and Author Joey Coleman will be presenting on how to “Never Lose a Customer Again” by Zoom on Saturday, October 17th at 5 pm. Joey will share his insights with Rotarians from Rotary District 7850 (an international Rotary District that is comprised of areas of Vermont, New Hampshire, and Quebec) as well as members of the public who will enjoy learning the recipe for retaining customers in this competitive business environment.
St. Johnsbury Rotary took part in the recent Relay for Life - a drive through Relay event at the Caledonia County Fairgrounds held on September 19th. Thank you to all who attend the event and/or sent in donations for our team in support of this important cause. Rotarian Melynda Miller did an amazing job sharing her survivor story at the event. You can view her portion of the event on our Club YouTube Channel here.
Jay Miller presenting masks to Waterford School Principal Chris Miller.
Thanks to a grant received by Rotary District 7850 from the Rotary Foundation, reusable and washable masks were distributed to two local schools - Danville and Waterford.
Rotary District 7850 received a $25,000 Disaster Relief Grant specifically related to COVID-19 response from the Rotary Foundation. The District purchased $12,000 worth of masks and used remaining funds to support the Vermont Foodbank, New Hampshire Foodbank and a Foodbank in Quebec.
This month four St. Johnsbury Rotarians volunteered at Veggie Van Go and assisted the program to serve a record number of families - 500 families in total!
Frank Empsall, Joe Fox, Jay Miller, and Melynda Miller helped to distribute food and provide traffic control. They were joined by volunteers from NVRH, Vermont Foodbank, and the St. Johnsbury office of the Vermont Department of Health.
Veggie Van Go is offered monthly at NVRH, in partnership with the Vermont Foodbank, to provide fresh seasonal produce to members of our community.
Thank you for all the support with the TeleHealth for Seniors service project! Last Monday, August 31st, we collected 18 devices and $320 to help Lia Rubel and the team of students from TeleHealth Access for Seniors; who are dedicated to helping Seniors access healthcare from the safety of their homes. An extra big thank you to St. Johnsbury Academy for their large donation of iPads and to Brynn Evans for helping arrange the donation! It was so much fun to see so many Rotarians in-person after such a long time of meeting on Zoom. A good time was had by all!
-President Katheryn
Katheryn was interviewed by Alexandra Huff of News7/NEWSLINC from Northern Vermont University. This can be viewed here and the story starts around 7 minutes into the video.
Jamie Milne, a resident of Joe’s Pond in West Danville, and a long-time member of the St. Johnsbury Rotary Club, became Rotary District 7850’s Governor for the 2020-2021 Rotary year on July 1, 2020. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the District was unable to hold a formal ceremony with an in-person gathering, however Jamie was presented with the District’s Rotary Bell (with Jamie’s name engraved on it) by Ron and Marilyn Bedell, members of the Rotary Club of Lebanon in New Hampshire, who have both served as District governors in the past and continue to hold offices and chair committees in the District.
Jennifer Grant joined us as our speaker at our August 10, 2020 meeting. She is a Community Resource Coordinator with Northern Counties Health Care, Inc. and she is involved with the Physically Health Community Action Network through NEK Prosper. She spoke to us about an exciting community wide wellness campaign called Energize Expedition. The recording of our meeting can be viewed here.
We welcomed Lia Rubel as our speaker at our August 3, 2020 meeting. Lia is a rising sophomore at Emory University and is from Barre, Vermont. She spoke to us about a new organization, Telehealth Access for Seniors.
Thank you to our Rotarian volunteers for assisting with an additional community food drop. This took place at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital on July 31st. The event provided food to 205 families.
We were pleased to welcome the new St. Johnsbury Academy Headmaster Dr. Sharon Howell to our club and community on July 27, 2020. Dr. Howell officially started at SJA on July 1st and is the first woman headmaster to serve in this role.
The meeting and presentation were recorded and can be viewed here.
Thank you to Laura Valcour of the NEK Council on Aging for joining us as our speaker on July 20, 2020. Laura is the Director of Nutrition and Wellness working with 17 Meals on Wheels programs in the NEK. She expressed her appreciation for our Rotary Club, as they received some of the mac and cheese meals that we helped bring to the community. There has been an increase in the number or meals being served throughout the pandemic. The meal programs have risen to the challenge thanks to additional funding through the COVID CARES Act and support from the local community. Laura has helped to provide training resources to programs on safety precautions to ensure the continuation of meal services. Mask wearing and sanitizing are important aspects of these precautions. Most meals are delivered by volunteers. They provide meals and an important safety check to recipients. This is an important program for a vulnerable population in our community - helping to keep them well-nourished and safe during the pandemic.
Abigail Joyal, President of the GenRotary Club in Central Vermont, joined us as our speaker at our July 13, 2020 meeting.
Abigail was previously a Rotarct member and through that experience learned that Rotary can open many doors. Her favorite thing about Rotary is the people - meeting and collaborating with people across generations.
Emma Kinerson, a 2020 graduate of St. Johnsbury Academy, was recently presented with a St. Johnsbury Rotary Club Community Service Award for $1,500. Every year, following an application process, the Club presents this award to high school seniors in the Club’s service area, who demonstrate Rotary’s motto of “Service Above Self.” Emma plans to attend Coastal Carolina University in South Carolina this fall, majoring in Integrative Biology with a double minor in Psychology and Spanish. She is the daughter of Kevin and Rebecca Kinerson of Corinth, Vt.
Former St. Johnsbury Rotarian, Hank Parker, joined us on June 22nd to discuss the food supply in the US and issues related to pandemics and other vulnerabilities.
Normandie Lee and Frank Empsall spent last Thursday morning helping to distribute food to our neighbors at NVRH's Veggie-Van-Go site. This happens the third Thursday of each month. Brynn Evans coordinates Rotary volunteers to help out. If you are interested let her know. Look how well Normandie and Frank practice self protection and social distancing!
Melynda Miller became the newest member of the St. Johnsbury Rotary Club on April 13, becoming the first member ever to be inducted during a Zoom meeting and not in person. Because of the Coronavirus pandemic and Stay Home, Stay Safe restrictions for the State of Vermont, the Club is now holding virtual weekly meetings. Melynda is a Residential Loan Officer at Union Bank in St. Johnsbury.
Melynda Miller becomes newest member of St. Johnsbury Rotary via Zoom
With trying and uncertain times upon us due to the COVID19 outbreak we are canceling meetings for the next two weeks. This is subject to change. I believe it's important to listen to our health officials so we can all get through this healthy. We will hopefully reconvene April 6, 2020.
I hope you all stay healthy through this. We will get through this. I wish all of you well.
Joy Ely became the newest member of the St. Johnsbury Rotary Club during its weekly meeting March 9. Joy works at Northeast Kingdom Community Action (NEKCA), an anti-poverty agency located in the St. Johnsbury and Newport areas. She and her family are residents of St. Johnsbury. She is shown with, at left, Rotarian Brynn Evans, and her Rotary sponsor, Anne McClaughry, at right.
Joy Ely newest member of St. Johnsbury Rotary Club
Each year, Rotary District 7850 (which is made up of 43 Rotary clubs in northern Vermont, New Hampshire and Canada) holds a district-wide Speech Contest for high school students. The contest starts at the club level and encourages local students to prepare and present a five-minute speech on a Rotary topic selected each year. This year’s topic, “How Does Rotary Connect To My World” focuses on teamwork and everyday relationships. Progressive competitions are held in the clubs’ assistant governor’s area ($150 prize); then at the District 7850 Conference, which this year is being held May 2 at Jay Peak Resort in Jay, Vermont ($250 prize – competition taking place before lunch); and the final round, also taking place at District 7850 Conference at Jay Peak on May 2, to be held before the evening dinner, where the ultimate winner will be named. The winner’s earnings will total $1000. Competing on March 9 at St. Johnsbury Rotary Club’s weekly meeting were three seniors from St. Johnsbury Academy. Winning the contest (and $100) and advancing to the assistant district governor’s level, is Michael Zixian Chen. Shown above, with the competitors, who were accompanied to the meeting by their teacher, Janet Warner-Ashley, are from left, Club President Frank Empsall, Mate Koszo, MacKay Breton, Michael Zixian Chen and Warner-Ashley.
Round #1 of Rotary District 7850 Speech Contest takes place at St. Johnsbury Rotary
Evan Carlson, representing Do North Coworking in Lyndonville, was guest speaker during St. Johnsbury Rotary Club’s weekly meeting February 24. Do North, a non-profit under the umbrella of Northern Vermont University, was launched on Nov. 15, 2018. Do North offers “community-driven programming to engage and inspire the next wave of entrepreneurs in our community. The abundance of human capital flowing from Northern Vermont University provides us with an opportunity to shape our workforce. With Do North we have a platform to leverage it.” Evan explained the benefits entrepreneurs experience through the different levels of membership with Do North, including high-speed internet, coffee and tea, access to printer, copier, scanner and shredding devices, secure space, conference room bookings, event space, private phone booths, and more. For more information, go to www.DoNorthCoworking.com.
Evan Carlson represents Do North Coworking at St. Johnsbury Rotary
Vermont Gov. Phil Scott spoke to St. Johnsbury Rotarians about the many challenges the state is facing during the Club’s weekly meeting Feb. 10. He spoke about a stagnant population growth and lack of workforce - 18,000 fewer people available for jobs. His myriad of plans include: making investments in job growth without raising taxes; incentives for growing businesses; eliminating corporate income taxes; bipartisan support to reform Act 250; eliminating the taxing of pensions for veterans. Gov. Scott is also seeking funding for affordable childcare, and wants to see more investment in early child care and learning. He is striving to improve downtowns in the state; creating more affordable housing and low cost loans. He would like to see more investment in tourism, including one of his key focuses - the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, which will cover four counties and 18 towns in Vermont, from Swanton to St. Johnsbury, totaling 93 miles once it is completed.
VT Gov. Phil Scott speaks to Rotarians about challenges in the state
Joy Ely, representing Northeast Kingdom Community Action (NEKCA), an anti-poverty agency located in the St. Johnsbury and Newport areas, was guest speaker during St. Johnsbury Rotary Club’s weekly meeting Feb. 3. She spoke of the many programs available to those in need, including the Parent Child Center outreach service; the food shelf; fuel and utility assistance; cooking classes; early literacy programs and support groups; assistance for adults to get their GEDs; Baby bags for new parents at NVRH; financial help, teaching how to budget; working with the schools, educating parents, and more. She spoke about Hunger Fest, a fundraiser for NEKCA’s food shelf which takes place in the fall. She also told of the many efforts to help the homeless, finding places for them to go to for shelter and food. For more information about NEKCA, go to nekcavt.org, or call the St. Johnsbury office, 802-748-6040, or the Newport office, 802-334-7316.
Joy Ely, representing NEKCA, speaks about programs offered to residents in need
Amanda McFarland became the newest member of the St. Johnsbury Rotary Club during it’s weekly meeting Jan. 27. She was presented with her Rotary badge and information about Rotary by: from left, Katheryn Laferrierre, chair of the Membership Committee; Frank Empsall, 2019-20 president of St. Johnsbury Rotary; Amanda; and Brynn Evans, Service Projects chair. Amanda is the daughter of St. Johnsbury’s former sheriff, Mike Bergeron, who was also a St. Johnsbury Rotarian and now resides in Florida.
Brian Ricca, Superintendent of Schools for the St. Johnsbury School District, speaks to St. Johnsbury Rotarians about the proposed school budget during the Club’s weekly meeting Jan. 27.
Brian Ricca speaks to Rotarians about St. Johnsbury School District budget
St. Johnsbury Rotarian Sue Cherry, who is also an Assistant District Governor representing four clubs in Rotary District 7850, explains the functions of the many individuals involved in the organization of District 7850, during St. Johnsbury’s January 13 meeting.
Sue Cherry explains the many organizational facets of Rotary District 7850
St. Johnsbury resident and historian, Bob Swartz described what Lambert Packard’s Main Street in St. Johnsbury looked like in 1906, during St. Johnsbury Rotary Club’s weekly meeting Jan. 6. Packard, an architect and engineer, was born in Coventry, Vt., and lived in Waterford, before learning the carpenter's trade and working for engineers and architects in Massachusetts. He and his family moved to St. Johnsbury in 1866, where he was employed as a foreman by E. & T. Fairbanks & Company (brothers Erastus and Thaddeus), building most of the historic homes and buildings still standing in St. Johnsbury today. As the Fairbanks continued to grow business in town, Packard kept adding buildings, including several residential homes, in strategic areas, most predominantly, the length of St. Johnsbury’s Main Street. Packard died in 1906, so never had the opportunity to see how his creations impacted the future of St. Johnsbury.
Bob Swartz presents Lambert Packard's Main Street in St. Johnsbury in 1906
Laural Ruggles, vice president of Marketing and Community Health Improvement at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital, spoke to St. Johnsbury Rotarians on Monday (Dec. 16) about NEK Prosper!, a program formed by NVRH and community partners which "has a mission and shared goal of improving the health and well-being of the people in Caledonia and southern Essex counties by integrating" efforts and services, with an emphasis on reducing poverty in the region. Ruggles spoke about Stewardship and thinking about "the community in which we live, work, play; what signs do we see of a thriving community. She asked Rotarians, "In what ways do you/we contribute or ways you can contribute to a healthy community?" From the website: NEK Prosper! operates under the framework of an accountable health community, employs the principles of collective impact, and uses Results Based Accountability™ to measure our progress. An accountable health community is an aspirational model accountable for the health and well-being of the entire population in its defined geographic area and not limited to a defined group of patients. We understand that health outcomes are the product of multiple contributors of health: medical care, public health, genetics, behaviors, social factors, economic circumstances and environmental factors. For more information, go to https://nvrh.org/accountable-health-community/
Katherine Sims, director of the Northeast Kingdom Collaborative, was guest speaker during St. Johnsbury Rotary Club's weekly meeting Dec. 2. NKC brings together local, state and federal partners to advance economic development in communities across the Northeast Kingdom. Prior to her work at NKC, Sims was founder and executive director of Green Mountain Farm-to-School, a nonprofit working to improve childhood nutrition and support Vermont farms by connecting schools and farms through food and education. She also worked as an independent consultant to nonprofits helping to build their organizations through fundraising plans, leadership development, and succession planning. Sims spoke to Rotarians about advancing economic development around the strength of food; and about launching the NEK Leadership Institute, starting Jan. 15 with 20 chosen applicants. Sims graduated from Yale University with a bachelor’s degree in History. She serves on the board of the Vermont Land Trust and Craftsbury Saplings, and is a member of the Vermont Community Foundation. She lives in Craftsbury with her husband and two sons. St. Johnsbury Rotary honors guest speakers by donating a book to the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum with the speaker's name inside. Above, Sims is shown with the book, "Pan's Labyrinth," presented by Rotarian Martha Hill.
John Bongaarts, a Dutch American Demographer and the vice president and Distinguished Scholar at the Population Council, was guest speaker during St. Johnsbury Rotary Club's weekly meeting Nov. 18. He spoke on the history of population growth and over population. Bongaarts joined the Population "Council in 1973, following a postdoctoral fellowship in population dynamics at Johns Hopkins University. His research on critical demographic challenges — such as population momentum, the determinants of fertility, the impact of family planning programs, population – environment relationships, and the demographic effects of the AIDS epidemic — assists policymakers in addressing these issues. He has published more than 190 scientific articles and book chapters ... He is a member of the Royal Dutch Academy of Sciences and the US National Academy of Sciences, and a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science." For more information about Bongaarts, go to https://www.popcouncil.org/research/expert/john-bongaarts.
Scott Wheeler, publisher of The Northland Journal out of Newport, gives a talk about the history of Prohibition in the Northeast Kingdom to St. Johnsbury Rotarians during the Club's weekly meeting November 4.
Superintendent, Brian Ricca, outlined for the club the proposed $3 million bond project for community consideration. The major projects include care for the heating system and safety upgrades. The Board plans to heat with wood chips or wood pellets to soften the impact of oil on the environment. And changes to the front entrance will provide greater security for the students and community.
There is a Bond Walkthrough planned for October 28 at 5 p.m. at the school. All are welcome.
Brian Ricca, St. Johnsbury School District Superintendent
To celebrate World Polio Day, the special movie showing of "Breathe" will be held at Catamount Arts at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 27. This movie is an inspiring story about a man confined to bed and given just months to live after his polio diagnosis; only to overcome many challenges with the help of his family and the inventor, Teddy Hall.
The cost will be by donation. The event will benefit the Rotary Foundation PolioPlus Initiative, with a two-to-one match from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. For every $1 raised, you will be effectively raising $3!
Poliomyelitis, or polio, is a paralyzing and potentially fatal disease that still threatens children in some parts of the world. Poliovirus invades the nervous system and can cause total paralysis in hours. It can strike people of any age but mainly affects children under five. Polio can be prevented by vaccines, but it is not curable. Unlike most diseases, polio can be eradicated.
In Celebration of World Polio Day, Breathe to be shown at Catamount Arts
Rotary Readers at the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum children's library is a fun way to meet some our youngest citizens, their parents and caregivers, while exercising one's outload reading skills! The first Friday of each month at 10 a.m. a Rotary Reader arrives at the Athenaeum's children's library and reviews the books chosen for that day with children's librarian Becky Hatfield. At 10:30 a.m. kiddos arrive and for the next 30 minutes the reader has the floor. After the reading done, the Rotary Reader is invited to stay for the planned art activity. If this sounds like fun please contact Martha Hill at mahill54@yahoo.com to sign up.
Becky Hatfield, St. Johnsbury Athenaeum Children's Liberian pictured
St. Johnsbury Rotarian Jamie Milne is shown with other dignitaries during the Rotary Zone 24 and 32 Conference held recently in Niagara Falls, New York, following a Governor Elect Training Seminar. He is shown with: from left, Susanne Knaack, wife of Rotary International (RI) incoming president for the 2020-2021 year; Holger Knaack, RI President for 2020-2021; Milne, Governor Elect for Rotary District 7850 for 2020-2021; RI Board Director of Zone 32 and Zone 24, Jeffry Cadorette; and Incoming RI Board member Valerie Wafer. Milne's next training session will be at the International Assembly in San Diego, Calif. in January 2020. Rotary District 7850 encompasses 43 Rotary clubs in the areas of Southern Québec, Northern Vermont and Northern New Hampshire.
Internationally acclaimed author and speaker Dana Caspersen spoke to St. Johnsbury Rotarians about Conflict Resolution, during the Club’s weekly meeting Sept. 16. Caspersen is the author of “Changing the Conversation: The 17 Principles of Conflict Resolution,” a book geared toward changing lives. She described methods that can be used to turn conflicts into opportunities for growth.
Growing up, Caspersen developed a robust personality and was always curious. For 40 years, she was a dancer and performed in the theatre; then she decided to switch careers, earning a Master’s in Conflict Studies and Mediation at the Woodbury Institute of Champlain College in Vermont. She became a teacher and life coach, working with people on conflict and ways to deal with it.
Caspersen stated, “We’re all practicing conflict constantly – what do we really want to practice?” She said that “conflict can be terrible, or it can help us find out about others … We always have a choice on how we handle conflict.”
She said that in today’s society, there is a lot of polarization. She wants to get rid of conflict and encouraged Rotarians to be willing to step in and see what “we can do together … The most important thing in conflict is discovering what other people need.”
During a time of conflict with someone, the natural response is to attack and counter attack. This methodology is common – no matter where we are; at home, on the street, etc. She said that this type of behavior can be changed; “our approach to conflict is something we learn.”
Caspersen said, “We need to listen to what people are saying, even if they’re saying it really badly … We are not doomed to repeat destructive habits … Conflict can clarify what matters to us, and what matters to others.” She added, “We need to learn ‘not to hear the attack,’ but to develop a curiosity” about what is being said in a time of conflict.
As stated on her website, one of her principles is, “you can’t change how other people act in a conflict, and often you can’t change your situation. But you can change what you do. We have all been in circumstances of conflict when we failed to ‘think through’ the problem; we lashed out; we were rash; and we emerged from the experience with regret. The circumstance may have been in your work, family, or civic life. All areas of our lives can be enhanced by knowing how to ‘change the conversation.’”
Caspersen’s Changing the Conversation has been called “an invaluable handbook [to] teach you how to transform your mind-set and move beyond the destructive cycle of attack and counterattack … to create dialogue and find lasting solutions.”
Caspersen says, of the services she offers, “My clients include teachers, executives, parents, artists, small business owners, social service groups, international dance companies, arts collectives, schools, at-risk youth, municipalities and universities.
In collaboration with communities, governments and foundations in the U.S., Europe and the UK, I have designed and directed multiple large scale action dialogues on challenging topics ranging from immigration to violence. These events integrate simple physical action as an instrument to enable engaging and powerful exchange between participants.”
She concluded her presentation to the Rotarians with encouragement, stating this is “a call to strengthen our minds; how we think … Understand what is important; what does someone need … Try to do things that are positive.”
Caspersen lives part time in Kirby with her husband, William Forsythe. For more information about Dana Caspersen, go to https://danacaspersen.com/.
Author Dana Caspersen Encourages St. Johnsbury Rotarians To Deal With Conflict In A Positive Way
St. Johnsbury Rotarian Jamie Milne, at left, is presented a gift from 2019-2020 Rotary District 7850 Governor Richard Fox, during St. Johnsbury Rotary Club's weekly meeting August 26. Jamie will be taking the helm as District 7850's governor for the 2020-2021 Rotary year. Milne is presently secretary of the St. Johnsbury Rotary Club, and has also been an Assistant District Governor for 7850, representing clubs in Littleton, Lancaster, Wells River/Woodsville and St. Johnsbury.
Jamie Milne slated as District 7850 Governor for 2020-2021
Richard Fox, the 2019-2020 governor for Rotary District 7850, was guest speaker during St. Johnsbury Rotary Club's weekly meeting Aug. 26. Fox asked members to consider "Why" they choose to become Rotarians, and emphasized the synergy that comes with being involved in the community. Synergy is his focus for District 7850, which encompasses 43 Rotary clubs in areas of Southern Québec, Northern Vermont and Northern New Hampshire. Fox stated that Rotary clubs need to be solid and strong, and pointed out that the St. Johnsbury's club needs be the Rotary Club for the Greater Good of St. Johnsbury. He encouraged members to consider why they are Rotarians, and to pass this knowledge on to others who may become future members. Fox highlighted four agreements concerning Rotary: 1.) Rotary is important to our local and global communities; 2.) Rotary needs to be in our communities after we are no longer here; 3.) Rotary Clubs are important for the impact and success of our District and Rotary International, both globally and locally; 4.) We need to grow our Rotary Clubs to ensure sustained community engagement and the long-term impart of Rotary Clubs. He also emphasized that Rotary is family-oriented, and fun!
District 7850 Governor Richard Fox visits St. Johnsbury Club
Amanda Cochrane, executive director of Umbrella, was guest speaker during St. Johnsbury Rotary Club's weekly meeting July 8. Amanda spoke about the programs offered by Umbrella, dealing with abused women. One of the programs discussed was "Cornucopia, a culinary arts job-training program for women with barriers to employment. The 14-week program introduces women to the culinary arts through the preparation and packaging of Meals-on-Wheels for Newport area seniors. After completing the program, women are assisted with securing employment enabling them to achieve economic self-sufficiency."
Amanda Cochrane, executive director of Umbrella, is guest speaker at Rotary
Katelyn Brown, a 2019 graduate of Danville School, was presented with a St. Johnsbury Rotary Club Community Service Award on June 24 during the Club’s changeover meeting at the Rotary Pavilion in St. Johnsbury. Every year, following an application process, awards are presented to two high school seniors in the Club’s service area, who demonstrate Rotary’s motto of “Service Above Self.” Katelyn plans to attend the University of Southern Maine this fall. She is the daughter of Eric Brown of Lunenburg, and Wes and Paula Ward of Danville. She was presented the award by Martha Hill, at left, a member of the CSA Committee, and James McFaul, outgoing 2018-2019 president.
Katelyn Brown presented with Community Service Award
Northeast Kingdom Human Services President Tomasz Jankowski was guest speaker during St. Johnsbury Rotary Club's weekly meeting July 15. Jankowski said that the business of NKHS was healing people and saving lives.
Northeast Kingdom Human Services President Tomasz Jankowski was guest speaker July 15
Outgoing St. Johnsbury Rotary Club 2018-2019 President Jim McFaul presents the Club’s Rotarian of the Year Award to Katheryn Laferriere, during the Club’s end-of-the-year meeting June 24 at the Rotary Pavilion in St. Johnsbury. Katheryn serves the Club in many capacities, including being vice president on the Board of Directors; chairperson for the Membership Committee; an active participant in the Basketball Committee and the Relay for Life team. Katheryn lives in St. Johnsbury with her two daughters and husband Fred, owner of Mayo’s Furniture and Flooring.
Katheryn Laferriere named 2019 St. Johnsbury Rotarian of the Year
2018-2019 President James McFaul presents Rotarian Jamie Milne with a plaque of appreciation for his many years as Club Secretary. Jamie is slated to become Governor for Rotary District 7850 for the 2020-2021 Rotary year.
St. Johnsbury Rotary's 2019 71st Basketball Tournament!
View the Basketball Schedule in the "Download" section on the right of website.
Our Rotary Basketball Tournament promotes good sportsmanship among the 500-plus students from Northern Vermont and New Hampshire whose teams participate each year. The two-week tournament is also our Club's biggest annual fundraiser. The proceeds support sending children to summer camps.
Historically, funds from our Tournament and other funds raised by our club have supported the following St. Johnsbury Rotary Club projects:
• Summer camps for over 50 children • Literacy and education: Our club distributes 240 dictionaries and atlases to local schoolchildren each year • Community Service Awards to college-bound students • Northeast Kingdom Youth Services (NEKYS) • First Night • Four area Red Cross Blood Drives collecting 700+ pints of blood annually • Meals on Wheels • Shared Heat • The Santa Fund and many more local projects.
Brendan Hughes passion for St. Johnsbury shows as he updates the St. Johnsbury Rotary club on the progress of the St. Johnsbury Distillery -- schedule to open in the St. J Hardware building this spring.
Jane Mitchell is the Vermont state coordinator for the Alzheimer's Association. Nancy Poulos heads up the "Walk to End Alzheimer's in St. Johnsbury on September 9th.
Pres. Jim McFaul presents outgoing Pres. Susan Cherry with a President's Rotary plaque. As president, Susan lead the club for 2 years. The club welcomes Pres. Jim's as it's president for the coming Rotary year (July 1st to July 1st). Pres. Jim has been outlining his thoughts and goals for the club and the club looks forward to his leadership.
St. Johnsbury Rotary Speech Contestant - Martin Kraus
Martin Kraus, St. Johnsbury Academy was the St. Johnsbury Rotary Club's contestant at the second round of the District 7850 Rotary Speech Contest hosted by the Littleton Rotary Club on March 14th. Martin competed against contestants from the Lancaster Rotary Club (Isabella Gaetjens-Oleson) and the Cohase Rotary Club (Bryannah Heywood). Bryannah scored the most points and will compete in April 14th at the Rotary District Assembly.
February 12, 2018 St. Johnsbury Rotary Club Meeting
Member Jim McFaul presents the Rotary banner from the Beirut Cedars Rotary Club in Beirut, Lebanon. Jim recently visited the Beirut area and shared our club's banner with their club.
Past Present and our Club's current Rotary International Foundation Chair discusses the importance of giving to the Rotary Foundation. One of the Foundation's greatest benefits is that 50% of the money donated by a Rotary District returns to that district to be used by the Rotary Clubs. Our District 7850 receives approximately $30,000 each year. A couple of year's ago, the St. Johnsbury Club participated in a District Grant. The grant helped to get the Rankin land (Kingdom Trails South) started.
Janet Warner-Ashley, Teach at the Academy and three of her students; Franziska Murmann, Reagan Ford, Martin Kraus and Rotarian Jim McFaul. Reagan's speech on the current political divide in American was the Club's winner by a slight margin. Reagan receives $100 and will compete against clubs from Lancaster, Littleton and the Cohase Rotary Club in Woodsville.
RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Award) students - Katelyn Brown and Garrett Sinclair. Standing with St. Johnsbury Rotary Club's Youth Chair Sue Parker and Pres. Elect Hank Parker. Katelyn and Garrett are students at Danville High School.
District Governor Eric Denu (Middlebury Club) visited our club today.
Gov. Eric presents a tree to Pres. Susan and our club. Gov. Eric is gifting a tree to each of our 42 clubs in our District. One of Ian Riseley's missions is "Rotary will use its global footprint to flex its environmental muscle by planting some 1.2 million trees".
The Rotary gifts didn't stop with the tree. Pres. Susan with this years Rotary International theme banner and Gov. Eric's Rotary Teamwork hats.
View the Basketball Schedule in the "Download" section on the right of website.
Our Rotary Basketball Tournament promotes good sportsmanship among the 500-plus students from Northern Vermont and New Hampshire whose teams participate each year. The two-week tournament is also our Club's biggest annual fundraiser. The proceeds support sending children to summer camps.
Historically, funds from our Tournament and other funds raised by our club have supported the following St. Johnsbury Rotary Club projects:
• Summer camps for over 50 children
• Literacy and education: Our club distributes 240 dictionaries and atlases to local schoolchildren each year
• Community Service Awards to college-bound students
• Northeast Kingdom Youth Services (NEKYS)
• First Night
• Four area Red Cross Blood Drives collecting 700+ pints of blood annually
• Meals on Wheels
• Shared Heat
• The Santa Fund and many more local projects.
St. Johnsbury Rotary 2016 Educational Award Information/Application
Each year the St. Johnsbury Rotary Club awards educational awards to area high school seniors going on to post-secondary education or pursuing technical/vocational training. This year, up to four awards will be granted in the amount of $1,000-1500 each. Students from schools within the St. Johnsbury Rotary Club service area are eligible to apply. The schools are: St. Johnsbury Academy, Danville High School, and Hazen Union School.
St. Johnsbury Rotary 2016 Educational Award Information/Application
Last year's Community Service Award went to Grady Peterson of Danville. Peterson plans to attend Vermont Technical College in the fall of 2015. The award was given in recognition of Peterson's many and varied community service activities. Additionally, Grady has achieved the designation of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts. Grady Peterson (on left) received the award on behalf of the Club from Rotarian Eric Wilson (on right).
Our 67th Annual Rotary Basketball Tournament (March 2 - March 14) was a huge success! Congratulations to Lancaster Boys A & Danville Girls C for winning the 2015 Paul Sweeney Sportsmanship Award.
BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT , MARCH 6TH THROUGH MARCH 17TH.
This tournament will bring approximately 69 teams to St. Johnsbury at 3 locations. More info and results posted here.
Pictures taken at a sampling of games this year can be viewed at
. Pictures will be available after the Finals, Saturday March 17th.
Video of all the championship games were provided by Kingdom Access Television and can be viewed on Channel 7 or DVDs are available for more information please visit www.katv.org.
Our Rotary Basketball Tournament promotes good sportsmanship among the 500-plus students from Northern Vermont and New Hampshire whose teams participate each year. The two-week tournament is also our Club's biggest annual fundraiser. The proceeds support sending children to summer camps.
Historically, funds from our Tournament and other funds raised by our club have supported the following St. Johnsbury Rotary Club projects:
• Summer camps for over 50 children
• Literacy and education: Our club distributes 240 dictionaries and atlases to local schoolchildren each year
• Community Service Awards to college-bound students
• Northeast Kingdom Youth Services (NEKYS)
• First Night
• Four area Red Cross Blood Drives collecting 700+ pints of blood annually
• Meals on Wheels
• Shared Heat
• The Santa Fund
and many more local projects.
Typically, 200+ bingo players participate in our Super Bingo held in Spring and Fall. Through the generosity of those who play, we are able to raise funds that go to support many local causes. We extend our thanks and gratitude to all who participate. Our fall event took place on October 18, 2015 at the St. Johnsbury Academy Field House. Watch for details about our spring event. We hope to see you there!
Circus Smirkus (http://www.smirkus.org/) was in St. Johnsbury in July. Rotarians enjoyed volunteering to assist with parking, taking tickets, ushering and other duties!
The fight to end polio is led by the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, which includes Rotary International, UNICEF, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and governments of the world, with the support of many others around the globe.
Rotary's "This Close" campaign in raising awareness and support for polio eradication.
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To Learn more and sign up for their monthly newsletter go to www.nekcollaborative.com
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