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Rotary Club of Putnam Connecticut

P.O.Box 604, Putnam CT 06260-0604 (Phone: 860-371-6612)

Meeting the first 3 Tuesdays at 12:15 PM

The Inn at Woodstock Hill

94 Plaine Hill Rd, Woodstock, CT 06281-2912

https://www.facebook.com/Putnam-Connecticut-Rotary-Club-1108125182548456/

Putnam Interact - Donuts for Solar Power

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Apr 06, 2024

Donuts Will Bring Solar Energy
PUTNAM — The Putnam Rotary Club’s Interact Club April 6 held its first ever Krispy Kreme fund-raiser. They raised $1,760 --- and more donations are still coming in.
Interact Club Advisor Roberta Rocchetti said the Interact Club’s goal is to raise enough money to buy a Solar Suitcase kit (a small portable generator) to give the gift of power in a developing country’s clinic or school.
Once the $3,000 cost is raised the club members will put it together and have it tested. Once it is approved, it will be sent to a clinic or school in a developing country.
Interact members were set up in front of WINY Radio, the Citgo in Pomfret, the Citgo in Putnam by Walmart and Runnings.
Interact participants were; Sofia Thurber, Serena Smith, June Ferraro, Paige Perry, Gabriell Cerasiello, Amelia Haynes, Logan Casteen, Jordyn Butler and Eric Levesque. Rotaract members, Matt Gardiner and Nick Megas,helped. Rocchetti also thanked Rotarians and adult volunteers: Wayne and Dottie Durst, Jennifer Brytowski, Joseph Adiletta, Jonathan and Keri Tremblay, Mike and Roberta Rocchetti, Maureen Bender and Adrienne Casteen.
captions:
Amelia Haynes, left, and Maureen Bender
from left: Jordyn Butler, Joseph Adiletta, Eric Levesque
Rotaract members: Nick Megas, left, Matt Gardiner
From left: Paige Perry, Gabriell Cerasiello

Good Friday Food Drive a Big Success

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Mar 29, 2024

NE CT --- Cars lined up and when they were done, Daily Bread Food Pantry was the proud recipient of a truck filled with food and a cash box filled with thousands in monetary donations.

The traditional Good Friday Food Drive, held in the WINY Radio parking lot, is a joint effort among the Putnam Rotary Club and its Interact Club, the Putnam Lions Club and its Leos Club and the Putnam Elks Lodge #574.

Doria Daviau, a Putnam Lions advisor for the Leo Club, said at the end the truck was filled and more than $4,500 in donations were received. Daviau has been a volunteer at the food drive for more than 10 years.

The wind was cold and raw and definitely not helpful --- it tried to steal the volunteers’ tent. Despite the windy challenges, the volunteers were collecting with smiles on their faces.

The rain didn't stop the Putnam Rotary Club’s Interact Club from waving and encouraging cars to stop by and make a donation. Kira Greene, left, and Jacqueline Dearborn had fun despite the cold wet weather.

The volunteers said: “We had an excellent day. Great volunteers and great people donating.”

Putnam Rotary - Interact Club - TEEG Garden

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Mar 20, 2024

Interact Helping Rescue TEEG Garden

PUTNAM — “With you guys involved, it feels like it will really get done this time,” TEEG Executive Director Anne Miller told the Putnam Rotary Club’s Interact Club.
The Interact Club decided last year to make the vandalized garden at TEEG its main project. Interact members had already raised some money for garden supplies.
Last week they presented Miller with a $1,000 check from a Rotary district grant they had been awarded.
Roberta Rocchetti, Interact advisor, said she was proud of the club members and this is the first Rotary district grant she’s aware of that the Putnam Interact Club has received.
The grant is earmarked for the fence around the garden. Miller said vandals had wrecked the fence, broken the fence gate and trampled the garden. Varmints have been “enjoying” the plantings ever since. Miller said the total is $9,800 and $8,800 is still needed.
Miller noted the importance of the garden — on many levels. Many of the TEEG programs incorporate that garden. It brings people in to work and to pick, “to have that experience,” she said.
The garden grows herbs, plus tomatoes, peppers, squash, peas, etc. In addition rows of flowers such as zinnias and sunflowers are planted to be picked and sold.
In addition to Interact Miller said schools in the area are really coming together. “We have some really determined individuals,” Miller said. “It’s time to start meeting to make a plan — get the garden back on its feet.”

Putnam Rotary Basketball Senior Shootout Shines for More Than 3 Decades

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Mar 20, 2024

Local girls and boys topped off their high school basketball careers at the Ray Brousseau All Star Senior High School Shootout at Putnam High School March 14. The games have been sponsored and run by the Putnam Rotary Club for more than 30 years.
In a closely contested extremely exciting girls’ contest the Woodstock Building Associate Green team edged the WINY Radio Yellow team 43-41 on a Kylie Damble basket with less than two seconds remaining on the clock.
In the boys' game, the Centreville Bank Blue team ran away from the Archambault Insurance Red team for an easy 101-67 victory.

Last-Second Basket Highlights
Girls’ Game
After trailing 32-25 following three quarters of play, the WBA Green team coached by John Murdock of Ellis Tech used some last-quarter heroics to walk off with a 43-41 victory thanks to Damble’s basket with less than two seconds to play.
WBA Green placed three girls in double digits in pulling off the win. Damble, of Ellis Tech, had 13 points; Tara Hefferan from Tourtellotte had 14; and Alyssa Czmyr of Windham Tech added 10 for the winners.
Lily Goyette of Putnam High School had 15 points and Kaelyn Pearl of Parish Hill dropped in 13 for the WINY Yellow squad. Melodie Anderson of Putnam High School was selected as the MVP of the Yellow squad and Jordyn Butler of Tourtellotte, who had numerous key rebounds for the winning team, captured MVP honors.

Winning Centreville Team Cracks the Century Mark
Led by Camden Nassen and Josh Carlson, who tallied 31 and 30 points respectively, Centreville Blue rolled to an easy 101-67 win over the Archambault Red team. Jake Patterson of Tourtellotte contributed 21 points to the
win, while Jacob Mailloux had 12 and Koby Rock seven.
The Archambault Red team was led by Hunter Larson with 26, Carter Tossetti with 19 and Deonte Snow with 15. Tosetti was selected as the MVP of the Red Squad and Nassen captured MVP laurels for the winning Blue team.
Jeff Belanger of E.O. Smith High School coached the Red team and Shawn Deary of Putnam High School was the winning Blue coach.

100 Year Rotary Ice sculptor

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Feb 10, 2024

The Putnam Rotary Club celebrated the end of its 100th year with an ice sculpture in the annual Fire and Ice Festival.

Interact Fund-raiser sets records all around

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Jan 25, 2024

PUTNAM — Putnam Rotary Club President Amanda Kelly praised the Interact Club members’ fund-raising efforts for the Salvation Army Kettle Campaign. They pulled in a record amount of money — and spent a record number of hours in the cold doing it.

In its 26th year, according to Interact Club advisor Roberta Rocchetti, the club members and volunteers raised $15,283.

Kelly said “We appreciate the hours you volunteers spent in the cold, bell ringing.” She added, “Those hours and hours added up.” She also thanked the advisors and volunteers who helped.

The Salvation Army, recipient of the club’s Kettle Campaign efforts, uses all the funds raised in the local area. Debbie White, director of Social Ministries for Connecticut and Rhode Island, told the volunteers in a letter, on behalf of the Salvation Army “you have our heartfelt gratitude for your dedicated service as a volunteer.”

She added, “Thank you for choosing to be a beacon of hope and change.”
The school which spent the highest number of hours on “kettle duty” was Woodstock Academy with 166 hours. In second was Putnam High School with 152 and coming in third was 93 hours for Tourtellotte Memorial High School.
In the individual category there was a tie for first with Paige Perry and Gabriell Cerasiello of Putnam High working together for five weekends and racking up 32 hours. In second was Kaylee Borders with 15 hours and in third was Delta Wagner with 12 hours.

Interact Club members include: Paige Perry, Gabriell Cerasiello, Kasyn Robillard, Delta Wagner, Danny Boriboun, Maggie Kimball, Maddie Jezierski, Kira Greene, Phoebe Griffin, Hunter Larson, Taylor Lamothe, Madie McMahon, Ava Simoes, Greysen Dery, Kiley Elliott, Elizabeth Ladzinski, Amelia Haynes, Logan Casteen, Austin Crim (UConn), Lillian Conway, Caitlin Mercer, Eoin Merce, Vivianna Hill, Jordyn Butler, Eric Levesque, Patricia Peterson, Cade Jones, Jared Nielsen, Emma Kerr, Eden Lusignan, Gianna DiCola-Keddy, Noel Racicot, Ella Carota, Zahara Moore, Ava Hovestadt, Cooper Sweeney, Joshua Tackson, Talia Tremblay, Kaelyn Tremblay, Serena Smith, Livi Gerum, Keivon Robison, Abby Houle, Sofia Thurber, June Ferraro, Kaylee Beck, Jin Blair, Kaylee Borders, Jackie Dearborn, Avery Thienel, Adam Rumrill, Sara Macri, Angelica Oliveira, Evan Shaughnessy, Julius Lang, Leo Rocchetti, Delaney Anderson, Danny Pynn, Jay Patel, Ryan Rivera, Tyler Shead, Mikayla Bessette, Ava Golden, Bella DiGregorio, Julia Coyle, Grace Pokorn, Maya Rodrigues, Mackenzie Lewis, Angel Sherpa, Noah Russell, Ben Cross, Ela Gadoury, Alexis Phav, Gia DisPasquale, Celine Leffingwell, Adrian Rivera, Grace Akana, Ethan Latandrice, Romeo Devil, Hudson Smith, Adric Devil, Cody Keene, Madison Williams, Arthur Soucy, Lillian Beausoleil, Sophia Milardo, Anna Bell, Jadon Dakal, Colby Ormerod.

Also, Patty Gaffney, Marysia Cournoyer, Adam Rumrill, Maryann and Calvin Heath, Woody and Dottie Durst, Garry Brown, Claudia Ursin, Donna Drasch, Leo, Mike and Roberta Rocchetti, Dick Loomis, Kelly Alves, Harper Smith, Hudson Smith, Paul Pikora, Fred Chmura, Jonathan and Keri Tremblay, Doug Porter, Barry Shead, Pam Brown, Amanda Kelly, Shannon Fagan, Matthew Gardiner, Hailey Messier, Tom and Jacob Russel and Richard and Kathy Naumann.

captions:

Interact Club members, volunteers, advisors.

From left: Putnam Rotary Club President Amanda Kelly, Amelia Haynes accepting the top school award for Woodstock Academy, and Interact Advisor Roberta Rocchetti.

From left: Putnam Rotary President Amanda Kelly, Paige Perry and Gabriell Cerasiello (2 top individual winners - tied) and Interact Advisor Roberta Rocchetti.

Putnam Rotary - Interact Club Breaks 'Bell Record'

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Dec 24, 2023

3 Cheers for Interact. Beat Last Year’s Fund-raising Record

PUTNAM --- “Three cheers for Putnam Rotary's Interact Club and friends who manned the Salvation Army kettles for five weekends in a row!”

Interact Club advisor Roberta Rocchetti was thrilled with the fifth and final day of Salvation Army bell ringing.

More than $1,800 was collected and the grand total was more than $14,000.

“It was another wonderful day,” she said.

The Dec. 23 collection helped the club break last year’s record of $13,000.

“We couldn't have achieved this goal without the support of our local students,” she added.

Help came from Putnam High School: Jay Patel, Keivon Robinson and Delta Wagner. The Woodstock Academy: Maya Rodriguez, Ben Cross, Ela Gadoury, Grace Pokorny, Celine Leffingwell, Madison Williams, Arthur Soucy, Lillian Beausoleil and Sophia Milardo. Tourtellotte Memorial High School: Alexis Phav, Gia Dipasquale, Anna Bell, Jadon Dakai, Adrian Rivera, Grace Akana and Colby Ormerod. Rotarians: Doug Porter, Pam Brown, Amanda Kelly, Michael Rocchetti.

The Interact Club is a regional club for ages 12 - 18 and meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the Putnam Library. For more information contact Roberta Rocchetti -860-933-8603 or robertarocchetti4@gmail.com

caption: Helper Michael Rocchetti mans a Salvation Army Kettle

Interact Club Bell Ringing

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Nov 25, 2023

First week of Putnam Rotary Club Interact Club Bell Ringing Nets $3,000+

Salvation Army Kettle Campaign continues from 9 to 5 every Sat. including Dec. 23

PUTNAM --- Once again the Putnam Rotary Club Interact Club organized the Putnam Salvation Army Kettle Campaign for its 26th year, beginning on Nov. 24 and Nov. 25.

The campaign will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Saturday coming up, including Dec. 23, at Putnam Supermarket, Price Chopper, Walmart and Stop & Shop.

"This year we had a new device attached to our kettle stand that allows people to tap (their credit card for) a $5, $10 or $20 donation," said Roberta Rocchetti, Interact advisor. “Hopefully this will help those that want to make a donation but do not carry cash."

The total for the first weekend was over $3,000.

Rocchetti praised Putnam High School students Paige Perry and Gabriell Cerasiello who rang for eight hours. She thanked the bell ringers and volunteers --- from PHS: Kaysn Robillard, Madeleine Kimball, Delta Wagner and Danny Boriboun; from Tourtellotte Memorial High School: Jordyn Butler, Eric Levesque, Patricia Peterson, Noel Racicot Caitlin and Eoin Mercer and Vivianna Hill; from The Woodstock Academy: Greysen Dery, Kiley Elliott, Elizabeth Ladzinski, Kira Greene, Phoebe Griffin, Maddie Jezierski, Hunter Larson, Taylor Lamothe, Madie McMahon, Ava Simoes, Lillian Conway, Amelia Haynes, Logan Casteen, Cade Jones, Jared Nielsen, Emma Kerr, Gianna Dicola-Keddy and Eden Lusignan.

Boy Scout Troop 21 volunteers included: Ethan Latandrice, Adric Devil, Romeo Devil, Cody Keene, Advisor Patty Gaffney and Marysia Cournoyer with Adam Rumrill, Maryann and Calvin Heath (Putnam). UConn volunteer: Austin Crim.

Ashford volunteers included: Claudia Ursin, Donna Drasch. Rotaract volunteers included: Shannon Fagan, Hailey Messier. From American Legion Post 13: Garry Brown, Mike Rocchetti.

Putnam Rotarian volunteers included: Woody Durst and Dottie Durst, Roberta Rocchetti, Richard and Kathy Naumann, Joseph Adiletta, Paul Pikora, Barry Shead and Marc Archambault.

‘Ghostly’ Fund-raiser

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Jan 10, 2024

‘Ghostly’ Fund-raiser

PUTNAM --- In the “spirit” of The Christmas Carol, the Putnam Rotary Club raised money for three non-profits.

At the club’s holiday gathering and at the next meeting, three trays appeared.

The tray with a picture of the book’s “Ghost of Christmas Past” was a place for Rotarians to donate to The Aspinock Historical Society.

The “Ghost of Christmas Present” tray was for donations to IHSP/Daily Bread.

The “Ghost of Christmas Yet to Be” tray was the place for donations for the club’s Interact Club. Interactors are on a mission this year to help restore the Community Garden at TEEG --- for its future.

Rotarians are generous all year long so the quick fund-raiser did well.

The Ghost of Christmas Past raised $40 for Aspinock Historical Society. The Ghost of Christmas Present raised $70 for IHSP/Daily Bread and the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Be raised $200 for the Interact Club’s efforts toward the future of the TEEG garden.

Rotarian John Miller receives the check for $40 from the Ghost of Christmas Past fund-raiser from Putnam Rotary Club President Amanda Kelly. Elaine Turner, right, who was the speaker at the club’s Jan. 9 meeting, happens to be a member of the Aspinock Historical Society so Miller asked her to step up, too.

Rotarian Karen Osbrey, left, in blue, receives a check for $70 from the Ghost of Christmas Present fund-raiser from club President Amanda Kelly.

Rotarian and Interact Club Advisor Roberta Rocchetti, left, receives $200 from the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Be fund-raiser from club President Amanda Kelly.

Interact Club receives donation

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Oct 03, 2023

PUTNAM --- The Putnam Rotary Club’s Interact Club was pleasantly surprised by a visit from Rotarian Barry Shead.

Representing the Putnam Masonic Lodge 46, he presented Interact Club President Jordyn Butler with a check for $300 to show support of the club. The Putnam Lodge Masons wanted to thank Interactors for their help with parking cars during the Woodstock Fair.

The Interact Club has committed this year to help TEEG with restarting its community garden and will use the funds to purchase the supplies that are needed.

For more information about the Interact Club contact Roberta Rocchetti 860-933-8603 or robertarocchetti4@gmail.com

The ARC

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Oct 09, 2023

Jennifer Ricci, left, describes the process that Arc workers use to create their famous chocolate chip cookies.

Great Pumpkin Festival

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Oct 23, 2023

The Putnam Rotary Club's Interact Club spread the good word about the club's good works at the recent Great Pumpkin Festival. And a little rain didn't stop them. From left: Melanie Noonan, June Ferraro, Sofia Thurber --- all students at Tourtellotte Memorial High School --- and advisor Roberta Rocchetti. One of the club's goals this year is to help TEEG restore its garden.

Helping Kids

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Oct 23, 2023

Helping Kids

Oct. 23 the Putnam Rotary Club’s Interact Club members were busy assisting children with their Halloween costume selection at TEEG. Advisor Roberta Rocchetti thanked Caitlin and Eoin Mercer, Julia Lewis, Paige Perry and Gabriell Cerasiello.

Pictured: Caitlin Mercer, left, and Julia Lewis.

Clothing Collection

Putnam Rotary Club Interact Club members are now collecting warm clothing for TEEG.

Members have collection bins at their schools: Putnam High School, Tourtellotte Memorial High School, Woodstock Academy and Marianapolis.

Collections are on until Nov. 3. Advisor Roberta Rocchetti said the club members will go through the clothes to make sure they are gently used then bring them to TEEG.

For more information about the Putnam Rotary Interact Club contact Roberta Rocchetti 860-933-8603 or robertarocchetti4@gmail.com.

Veterans Day Presentation

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Nov 07, 2023

Bruce Hay, left, and Fred Ruhlemann, both of the Danielson Veterans Coffeehouse, flank Putnam Rotary Club President Amanda Kelly. Coffeehouse President Ruhlemann talked about the origins of the Coffeehouse, a coffeehouse that is so well respected that other veteran groups come here for advice on how a strong, vibrant veterans coffeehouse is created/run. Hay described the coffeehouse's Food Share fights food insecurity.

Interact Member attend RYLA

Posted by Linda Lemmon

Two Putnam Interact members Kaelyn Tremblay, left, and Abigail Converse, center, described their attendance at the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards. They learned about diversity, problem solving and building leadership skills. At right is Putnam Rotary Club President Amanda Kelly.

Putnam Rotary Club marks 100 years with honors

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Jun 27, 2023

PUTNAM — What is this “no” you speak of?

For the Putnam Rotary Club — for the last 100 years — the answer has always been “yes.” Yes to seemingly impossible projects. Yes to always doing more for communities … and worldwide.

Right from the beginning, when the Putnam Rotary Club was founded in 1923, led by John Reardon, the Putnam club has been driven, according to Rotarian Joe Adiletta. At the club’s recent awards ceremony and induction of officers, Adiletta gave a brief synopsis of the club’s 100 years of service. From local projects, to helping out nationally to lending a hand worldwide, the answer was always yes.

In this 100th year it was always “yes” and projects tumbled into the “done” column.

The club received a citation in honor of its 100th anniversary from Governor Ned Lamont.

And even the Paul Harris Fellowship Awards, Rotary’s highest, echoed the resounding “yes”. Jeff Bousquet, of Bousquet’s Appliances, was always there, always saying yes, according to Rotarian Gary Osbrey who nominated him for the award. He embraces and gives back to the community, “all without fanfare,” Osbrey said.

“Woody” Durst also received a Paul Harris award. Rotarian Doug Porter, who nominated Durst, said although Durst is a relatively new member he’s always there, serving. He’s heavily involved in Rotary projects and always says “yes.”

New president Amanda Kelly spoke about her goals for the coming year, in line with Rotary International’s theme this year, “Creating Hope in the World”. She gave each club member a stone engraved with the word “hope.” Important for her year, she said, is diversity and inclusion.

Putnam Rotary Officers and Board

From left: Past President Missy Meyers, Directors Kristen Willis and Woody Durst; Secretary Martha Paquette; Treasurer Fred Chmura; Vice President Kathy Kirk and President Amanda Kelly.

The club’s new officers were inducted and include: Amanda Kelly, president; Elizabeth Williams, president-elect; Kathy Kirk, vice president; Fred Chmura, treasurer; Martha Paquette, secretary; Missy Meyers, past president. Sergeants-at-arms include: Jonathan Sturdevant, Jonathan Tremblay, and Barry Shead. Directors include the officers and: Durst, Kristen Willis, Jennifer Ricci and Pam Brown.

captions: Honors

Putnam Rotarian Woody Durst, second from right with light shirt, won a Paul Harris Fellowship award. From left: Nominator Rotarian Doug Porter; Paul Pikora, chair of the Paul Harris Committee; Durst; and Rotarian and MC Joe Adiletta.

Jeff Bousquet also was awarded a Paul Harris. He stands next to Rotarian Gary Osbrey who nominated him.

The MC, Joe Adiletta served as MC and also spoke about what the club has accomplished in the last 100 years. The club was founded in 1923.

John F. Reardon Youth Community Service Award

Posted on Jun 20, 2023

Special Honors
In honor of the 100th anniversary of the Putnam Rotary Club's founding, the club recently bestowed the John F. Reardon Youth Community Service Award on five high school students --- one from each of the club's five-town service areas.

The one-time award, named after the founder of the Putnam Rotary Club, went to students: Maya Gerum, 2nd from left, Pomfret School, entering Northeastern University/environmental sciences; Lennon Favreau, center, Woodstock Academy, entering Wesleyan University; and Emily St. Martin, right, Putnam High School, entering Endicott College/nursing. Not present were winners Aubrey Rumrill of Eastford, Woodstock Academy, entering University of Maine/biology and Jordyn Butler of Thompson, entering her senior year at Tourtellotte Memorial High School. Far right is club president Missy Meyers. Far left is Rande Chmura who conceived the idea of the award and chaired the committee which chose the five recipients.

Valedictorians and Salutatorians

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Jun 20, 2023

Honored
The Putnam Rotary Club last week honored valedictorians and salutatorians from local schools.

From left: James D'Alleva-Bochain (val), Woodstock Academy; Paige Owens (sal), Woodstock Academy; Felicia Fongemie (sal) Marianapolis; Hanna LeClaire (sal) Tourtellotte and Alishia Thompson (sal), Putnam High. Missy Meyers, club president, and Rotarian Kristen Willis. Not pictured: Abbie O'Brien (val), Marianapolis; Sungwoo "Aiden" Choi (1st in class) and Miles Burrello, (2nd in class), Pomfret School; Guinevere Weiker (val) Putnam High; Rafael Machado (val) and Hailey Johnson (sal), Putnam Science; Alex Nachtigall (val), Tourtellotte.

Roots of Development

Posted by Richard Naumann on Jun 13, 2023

Putnam Rotary Club hosted a virtual visit by Chad Bissonnette of Roots of Development, and Louino Robillard of Rasin Development. They are leading the water access project on La Gonave island in Haiti, which our club partially funded this past year. Photos shown were part of their presentation on the progress made by this local Haitian community. So inspiring to have even a small role in such a worthwhile project!!

Roots of Development Full Screen Video

One-Time Award will Honor Club's First Presidentl's First President

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Apr 02, 2023

Putnam Rotary to Honor Students with Youth Service Award

Nominations Open April 1 to May 15

In celebration of its 100^th year, the Putnam Rotary Club will be honoring five local high school students with the Robert P. Reardon Youth Service Award.

This one-time award is named after the club’s first president. The club will award $200 each to one student from each of the club’s town service areas: Eastford, Pomfret, Putnam, Thompson and Woodstock.

Club President Missy Meyers said: “The Putnam Rotary Club is very excited for this opportunity to recognize the exceptional youth in our area, who voluntarily commit their time and energy to community service. The motto for Rotary is Service Above Self, and we can’t wait to see the nominations for the Reardon Youth Awards, to see the inspiring stories of how local high school students prioritize the same values.”

To be eligible for this award, the student must be in grades 9 through 12, live in one of the club’s five service towns and show that they exemplify Rotary’s motto of “Service Above Self.” Community service as a volunteer is the keystone of this award and the student’s daily conduct should incorporate the values of Rotary, as highlighted in Rotary’s “4-Way Test” of service:

1. Is it the truth?

2. Is it fair to all concerned?

3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships?

4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Students can be nominated by faculty, teachers, fellow students, friends or neighbors.

Nomination forms are available at: https://form.jotform.com/230816599363163

The deadline is May 15. The awards will be presented at the Putnam Rotary Club Gala on June 3. For information or questions contact Rande Chmura at rchmura20@gmail.com.

Happy 100 Birthday Putnam Rotary

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Mar 21, 2023

https://portal.clubrunner.ca/6068/Documents/en-ca/f804bacc-af53-4965-a65c-4e5eadd43e9b/1/

Ray Brousseau All Star Basketball Shoot-Out

Posted by Ron Coderre on Mar 21, 2023

All Stars Shoot Lights Out at Rotary -Brousseau Game

Playing in front of a sparse crowd of family, friends, fellow students and Putnam Rotary Club members, the high school senior basketball boys and girls put on an offensive barrage never witnessed in the history of the Putnam Rotary Club Ray Brousseau Memorial Senior All Star game.

Due to a low turnout of female players the teams were combined with men and women on both squads. A combined total of 214 points was scored. with the winning Green team coached by Donte Adams and Denzel Washington of The Woodstock Academy edging the Blue squad coached by Neil Bernier and Lee Blanchette of Tourtellotte Memorial High School. The final score was 108-106 in a game that went down to the wire for the evenly matched teams.

The contest was close throughout with the Blue team on top 57-53 at halftime. The game winning basket by the Green squad was scored by Putnam’s Alonzo Henries on a tip in with less than two seconds on the clock. The winners were paced by team Most Valuable Player Mikey Monroe of Parish Hill who finished with 29 points, nine rebounds and seven assists on the night. Henries totaled 13 points for the winners. Hailey Johnson of Putnam Science Academy was the women’s MVP for the winners

The losing Blue team was led by hot shooting Brody Belanger of Windham Tech, who poured in 49 points with an amazing demonstration of three-point bombs, explosive dunks and slashing moves to the hoop. He was selected as the Blue team MVP. Putnam Clipper Emily St. Martin was the women’s MVP for the Blue squad.

Dylan Johnson of Tourtellotte Memorial High School and Carter Tosetti of Woodstock each walked away $50 richer thanks to CorePlus Credit Union, which sponsored the halftime shootout. The duo of Johnson and Tosetti made shots from the foul line, top of the key and half court to earn the $50 reward.

The game was a total community effort with the referees from Board #35 donating their services. The refs were led by Bill Monaco. Working with him were Matt Phillips, former UConn woman’s player Shannon Saunders and David Coderre. The scoring and time keeping were done by Fred Hutchins and Maurice “Moe” Coderre, who also led those in attendance by performing the National Anthem.

Sponsors of the game included The Woodstock Academy, CorePlus Credit Union, Centreville Bank, WINY Radio, Benpe Consulting and Archambault Insurance Associates. Game participation mementos, presented to all players, and the MVP Awards were sponsored by the Byrnes Agency of Dayville and Norwich.

Rotarian Jonathan Tremblay was the chairperson of the organizing committee. Working with Tremblay were H. Douglas Porter, Dick Loomis, Ron Coderre, Jon Sturdevant, Club President Missy Meyers, Deb Hoft, John Miller, Woody Durst and Richard Naumann.

“The Putnam Rotary Club is pleased to sponsor this annual game featuring the senior boys and girls all stars. It’s part of our commitment to the young people of our communities. We’re looking forward to next year. Congratulations to these players for putting on one heck of a show for those in attendance,” said chairman Tremblay.

Captions: MVPs Brody Belanger of Windham Tech (blue) and Mikey Monroe of Parish Hill with Jonathan Tremblay, chair of the Rotary basketball committee.

MVPs Putnam Clipper Emily St. Martin (blue) and Hailey Johnson of Putnam Science Academy stand with Jonathan Tremblay, chair of the Rotary basketball committee.

The Blue Team

The Green Team

at the scoring table

From every corner of the Quiet Corner

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Nov 25, 2022

The Quiet Corner? Maybe. But Debbie White of the Salvation Army wondered out loud,
perhaps it should be “Philanthropic Corner.”
From every corner of the Quiet Corner, food, money, toys and more comes pouring out of
residents to help those less fortunate.
Bell ringing -- 25 years later

Nov. 19 White helped kick off the Putnam Rotary Club’s Interact Club 25th anniversary
of bell ringing for the Salvation Army. Interact Club co-advisor Roberta Rocchetti said in
25 years the Interact Club has raised $233,200.
Local high school students will be ringing the bells from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 25 and 26
and Dec. 3, 10, and 17 at Putnam Supermarket, Walmart, Price Chopper and Stop and
Shop in Putnam.

Photos: Emily St. Martin, president of the Putnam Interact Club

From left: Captain Joshua Jones and Debbie White of the Salvation Army, Interact Co-
Advisor Roberta Rocchetti; Emily St. Martin, Caitlin Mercer and Eoin Mercer of the
Interact Club; Missy Meyers, president of the Putnam Rotary Club.

Putnam Rotary honored

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Nov 11, 2022

Putnam Rotary Honored

J. Scott Pempek, left, past president of the Putnam Rotary Club, recently received a Rotary District Citation for the club’s performance in 2021-2022. He is congratulated by Assistant District Governor Vin Marinaro. The Putnam Rotary Club is one of 15 out of 45 clubs in the district to receive the honor. The Rotary Citation is the highest award a club can receive from Rotary International. Courtesy photo.

Interact Club on hand

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Oct 31, 2022

Interact Club on Hand

Oct. 16 found the Putnam Rotary Club’s Interact Club members helping at the TEEG Fall Festival. Club members helped with the book distribution table, costume distribution and at the Halloween candy giveaway table. President Emily St. Martin called the festival a success and thanked Caitlin and Eoin Mercer, Jordyn Butler, Eric Levesque, Talia and Kaelyn Tremblay, Maeve and Callum Lusignan and Jacqueline Dearborn. The club is now working on its "Ornament for Shut-ins" project and they look forward to celebrating 25 years of bell ringing for the Salvation Army. The Kickoff celebration for the bell ringing will be at 10:30 a.m. Nov. 17 in front of the Municipal Complex Building in Putnam. The public is welcome. From left: Eric Levesque, Jordyn Butler, Emily St. Martin, Eoin Mercer and Caitlin Mercer. Courtesy photo.

Interact Costumes collected

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Sep 27, 2022

Costumes Collected

The Putnam Rotary Interact Club is collecting new kids Halloween costumes for TEEG's Halloween costume distribution in October. New costumes sizes 2t-5t or kids 6-16 can be dropped off at the Hale YMCA Youth and Family Center off Kennedy Drive until Sept 27. For more information about the Interact Club contact Roberta Rocchetti 860-933-8603 or robertarocchetti4@gmail.com.

caption:

Interact President Emily St. Martin holds a poster about the club's collection of Halloween costumes. Courtesy photo.

Kettle kick-off Nov 19th

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Sep 27, 2022

Kettle kick-off Nov. 19

PUTNAM --- The Putnam Rotary Club’s Interact Club will kick off its 25^th year as organizers for the Putnam Salvation Army Office kettle campaign at 10:30 p.m. Nov. 19 in front of the Putnam Municipal Building. The guest speaker will be Debbie White, Salvation Army Service Extension Coordinator. The public is welcome.

Since 1997 when the Interact club was chartered, students from local schools stood by the red kettles and rang the bell for the local Salvation Army. The original organizers and advisors to the Interact Club were Pam Brown, Barbara Schreier, Paul Desautels, Bill McCloud and Dena Baskin. At that time there were kettles located at Kmart, Stop & Shop, Price Chopper, Walmart and Putnam Supermarket. A friendly competition between schools began with Putnam High School, Putnam Middle School, Tourtellotte Memorial High School, Woodstock Academy, Marianapolis, Killingly High School, St. Mary’s School, St. Joseph’s School, Ashford School and Putnam Science Academy. Rotarian Karen Osbrey, an Interact advisor, designed the Ring-a-Ling Trophy award for the student with the most bell ringing hours. This trophy has been passed down from winner to winner over the years. The most recent winner was Abby Smith from The Woodstock Academy.

From December 1997 to December 2021 the Interact Club has helped raise more than $233,200 for Putnam’s Salvation Army Office. Kathi Peterson, Community Service coordinator of the Putnam office, said the money is used for the needy in northeastern Connecticut for utilities, rent and fuel oil. Recently there have been other groups to assist the Interact Club in this endeavor, including Boy Scout Troop 21 and 25, Creation Church, the Leos Club, the Quinebaug Valley Rotaract Club, TEEG and the Ashford Social Services.

Look for the kettles at the Putnam Stop & Shop, Putnam Price Chopper, Putnam Walmart and Putnam Supermarket. A tap payment device is on the sign for easy donations. Club advisor Roberta Rocchetti said, “The Interact Club is excited to celebrate 25 years of bell ringing and looks forward to another successful year.

Interact Flyer

Posted by Linda Lemmon

Always Helping Interact Club

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Aug 16, 2022

The Putnam Rotary Club’s Interact Club helped TEEG in a very big way by volunteering with the backpack distribution at Pomfret Community School, Woodstock Middle School and the TEEG facility in Thompson.

Families were able to come to these locations and fill their backpacks with school supplies. The Interact Club also made a donation of nine Scientific calculators, some composition books, folders, paper and pens, according to Interact Advisor Roberta Rocchetti.

Chelsea French, TEEG program director, said many families were helped and she thanked the Interact volunteers: Emily St. Martin (Putnam High School) and Mikayla Walford from Putnam, Abigail Morin, Jeff Phongsa, Talia and Kaelyn Tremblay, Jackie Dearborn, Kira Greene and Abby Smith (Woodstock Academy); Jordyn Butler, Eric Levesque, Melanie Noonan and Kaylee Beck (Tourtellotte Memorial High School).

The Putnam Rotary Interact Club is a regional club for students ages 12 - 18 and meets from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesday from September through May at the Putnam Library. Rocchetti said “It is a great way to help our community and earn community service hours at the same time. Our volunteer activities help TEEG, Daily Bread, the local Salvation Army, Day Kimball Hospital, the Alzheimer's association and Relay For Life, to name a few. Sept. 13 is the date of our first meeting.”

For more information contact Rocchetti at 860-933-8603 or robertarocchetti4@gmail.com.

captions:

- Chelsea French, left, of TEEG, and Emily St. Martin, president of the Interact Club.

- Interact Club members helped TEEG distribute school supplies. Courtesy photos.

Congressman Joe Courtney

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Aug 09, 2022

Congressman Joe Courtney visited the Putnam Rotary Club meeting today! He spoke at length about the recent legislation being passed to support veterans (the PACT Act), the production of semi-conductors and other innovations (the CHIPS & Science Act) and the environment, manufacturing and access to healthcare (the Inflation Reduction Act). Rotarians appreciated the opportunity to ask questions about Congressional activity and discuss the future needs of northeastern CT.

Honored Marc Archambault and Roberta Rocchetti

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Jul 19, 2022

Honored.

Two Putnam Rotarians received Paul Harris Plus pins recognizing their level of support to the Rotary Foundation. Marc Archambault, left, received the Paul Harris Plus 3 pin and Roberta Rocchetti, center, received the Paul Harris Plus 1 pin. The pins were presented by Missy Meyers, Putnam Rotary Club president, right.

Recognition Scott Pempek

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Jul 12, 2022

Recognition

Missy Meyers, Putnam Rotary Club president, July 12 presented J. Scott Pempek, past president, with a Paul Harris Plus 3 pin in recognition of his level of donations to the Rotary Foundation.

Newest Paul Harris Award Recipient 2

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Jul 12, 2022

Putnam Rotary Club Bestows Paul Harris Fellow Award on Jason Verraneault

“It is said that when asked to help out, Jason just can’t say no. I would say, it’s not that he can’t, it’s more that he just doesn’t want to. It’s not in his nature.”

These were the words written about Jason Verraneault, the Putnam Rotary Club’s most recent Paul Harris Fellow honoree. He received the award at the Putnam Rotary Club’s July 12 meeting from Missy Meyers, the club’s recently installed president.

In her nomination of Verraneault for The Rotary Foundation’s highest award, Meyers, recounted only part of a list of Verraneault’s involvement in the community --- from Little League to Daily Bread to schools and beyond. Meyers said “Jason’s volunteerism is spread across our entire region.”

She added: “Jason also extends himself to many local Board of Director groups, and currently serves on the board for Northeast Placement Services and Quiet Corner Cares. As the owner of NorthStar Home Loans LLC, he is very active in promoting local business and is the vice president of the Killingly Business Association and on the Executive Committee of the Putnam Business Association. In addition to all of these ongoing commitments, Jason also responded during the COVID pandemic and became very engaged for an extended time in the Food Distribution Drives hosted by the Danielson Veterans Coffeehouse and Town of Putnam.

“Jason is clearly a very busy guy, but he always makes time to give of himself to his community. He puts the virtues of volunteerism front and center, and models this ethic to his children and employees, often getting all of them to join him in whatever the latest task is to support our region. His altruism and enthusiasm are infectious.”

Rotaract Club Awards Scholarships, Honors

Posted on Jul 05, 2022

Rotaract Club Awards Scholarships, Honors

The Putnam Rotary Club’s Quinebaug Valley Regional Rotaract Club gave away multiple student scholarships to local students from NE CT who are going on to pursue a higher education.

The club also honored a number of community members and businesses for their continuous support of the QVR Rotaract Club’s mission.

Special Recognitions: Rotaract Rockstar: Adam Rondeau; Rotaract Alumni Award: Maria Thomas; Community Partnership Award: Byrnes Agency.

Scholarship Recipients: Morgan Bentley, Reagan Boledovic, Amayah Chavez, Alivia Dalpe, Zachary Roethlein.

In addition, the club presented a $2,250 donation to Tim Kettle at Northeast Placement Services, its 2022 Cornhole Tournament beneficiary.

Current president Elle-Jordyn Goslin passed the gavel to incoming 2022-2023 club President Tayler Shea.

Newest Paul Harris Recipient

Posted on Jun 28, 2022

PUTNAM --- The Putnam Rotary Club recently bestowed its highest honor, a Paul Harris Fellow Award, on Monique Wolanin.

Wolanin, a 15-year veteran as director of Institutional Advancement at Quinebaug Valley Community College, has “raised funds so that the residents of northeastern Connecticut are provided the opportunity to attend QVCC regardless of income. In doing this, Monique has provided a tremendous service to this community and has truly exemplified the Rotary motto of Service Above Self,” said Rotarian Marc Archambault, who nominated her for the award.

He added: “She has been remarkably effective at her work, leading the Foundation as it has grown from an organization with $1.5 million in assets to one with $6 million. The number and amount of scholarships and institutional support for residents on northeastern Connecticut has grown six-fold in that time. Monique has developed innovative friend-raising and fund-raising ideas like the Visions in Leadership program, QVCC Spelling Bee, Donuts for Donations, QVCC Golf Tournament, and her ultimate brainchild, the Tackle the Trail Race which has grown not only in distance, but in popularity and participation. Monique does all of this with one goal in mind – Transforming lives for the people of northeastern Connecticut.”

Archambault said Wolanin “has a tremendous work ethic. She is intelligent, she is an enthusiastic leader, she is feisty and she has unmatched grit and determination.” He added Wolanin has “been the face of QVCC in the community.”

“She has done all this while confronting head-on a very scary health situation. She has done it with grit and determination, and with remarkable passion and enthusiasm. Her love for our community is evident and her drive to change lives is truly a part of who she is.”

Inauguration of new President

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Jun 28, 2022

Putnam Rotary Club Begins New Year

June 28 the Putnam Rotary Club held its 99th Induction ceremony.

Outgoing President J. Scott Pempek was honored, while the gavel was officially passed to incoming President Missy Meyers. Meyers shared her plans for the upcoming year including more community outreach and volunteerism, targeted efforts around housing insecurity and plans for the club’s 100th Anniversary.

This year’s Paul Harris Fellow was also presented to Monique Wolanin, director of Institutional Advancement at QVCC. A Paul Harris Fellow can be awarded to those who regularly exhibit extraordinary contributions to their respective club, community and/or fellow citizens. She was selected for her commitment to raise funds so that all residents of northeastern Connecticut are provided the opportunity to attend QVCC regardless of income, to support educational excellence, technological advancement, and professional development at the College and to serve as the regional advisory council.

Probate Judge Leah Schad

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Jun 07, 2022

Probate Court Outreach Continues

The Rotary Club of Putnam hosted Probate Judge Leah Schad and Chief Clerk Mary Ann Champney at an outreach program about the services provided by the Northeast Probate Court at their weekly meeting on June 7. Judge Schad presented information about the probate process and the services provided by the court to the local community.

Judge Schad explained that the probate court helps families who have lost a loved one settle their estates, appoints conservators when a family member is no longer able to care for themselves, and appoints guardians to protect the intellectually disabled and handles matters involving children in need. The Northeast Probate District covers the towns of Ashford, Brooklyn, Eastford, Pomfret, Putnam, Thompson and Woodstock.

Judge Schad described the origins of the probate outreach program to the Rotary members. Prior to COVID, clerks at the court were able to sit down with residents and give personal assistance to people going through a difficult time. Judge Schad and Chief Clerk Champney now travel to area senior centers, town halls, libraries and community groups to bring that service back to people struggling with life events who need the help of the probate court.

The next outreach program is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. June 21 at the Thompson Public Library. If you are a member of a group that would like to schedule an event, please contact Judge Leah Schad or Chief Clerk Mary Ann Champney at 860-928-4844.

caption: Probate Judge Leah Schad and Putnam Rotary Club President following the judge's program at the June 7 club meeting.

Interact Club blows fund-raising record out of the water

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Jun 06, 2022

Interact Club blows fund-raising record out of the water

The Putnam Rotary Club’s Interact Club raised a record breaking $10,008 for this year's Northeastern CT Relay For Life through daffodil sales, donations and sponsorships.

Interact advisor Roberta Rocchetti said last year they raised $3,500.

June 4 the Interact members and friends sold a total 33 pairs of their famous tie-dyed socks for a total of $102. In attendance were Sierra Girard (QMC), Lucas Cornell (Ellis Tech), Emily St. Martin, Amayah Chavez (PHS), Mikayla Walford (Putnam), Christine Denaker, Adisyn Makara (Dayville), Leo Rocchetti (Stafford Springs), Roberta Rocchetti (advisor).

And Rotaract Helps, Too

Meanwhile the Putnam Rotary Club’s Quinebaug Valley Regional Rotaract Club manned the Relay For Life Raffle Tent and sold more than $600 in tickets. Helping at the tent were: Tayler Shea, Andrew Arpin, Haylee Olsen, Shannon Fagan and Woody and Dottie Durst from the Putnam Rotary Club.

Captions:

Putnam Rotary Club's Interact Club sold their tie-dyed socks to raise money at the Relay For Life. From left: Leo Rocchetti, advisor Roberta Rocchetti and Christine Denakes and (front) Adisyn Makara.

The Putnam Rotary Club's Quinebaug Valley Regional Rotaract Club ran the basket raffle fund-raiser table at the Relay For Life June 4. There were so many baskets they didn't all fit on two large tables.

Relay for Life

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Jun 04, 2022

Fund-raiser Dunk

Fund-raiser Dunk

J. Scott Pempek, president of the Putnam Rotary Club and good sport, took his turn in the dunk/ flush booth at the Relay For Life June 4. Photo by his co-worker Tanya McDermott of Berkshire Hathaway.

Award

Posted by Linda Lemmon on May 31, 2022

Award

Putnam Rotary Club President J. Scott Pempek, left, awarded Rotarian Fred Chmura a Paul Harris Plus 2 pin in recognition of his level of donations to the Rotary Foundation.

Animal Rescue

Posted by Linda Lemmon on May 17, 2022

Jon Phillips of Our Companions Animal Rescue in Ashford, left, gave the Putnam Rotary Club an overview of the organization’s mission, helping cats and dogs that need a little extra behavioral help before they can be adopted. The organization has small home-like settings for the dogs and cats that help with this mission. They appreciate volunteers in various capacities. Money donations are also appreciated as they are funded entirely by private donations, not government money. The group’s website is: ourcompanions.org. At right is Putnam Rotary Club President Scott Pempek. Our Companions Animal Rescue is part of the Putnam Rotary Club’s volunteer website that, in collaboration with the Killingly-Brooklyn and Plainfield Rotary Clubs, connects organizations needing volunteers with people interested in volunteering their time. https://www.volunteernect.org/

Putnam Rotary Club’s Ronald P. Coderre Golf Tournament

Posted by Linda Lemmon on May 27, 2022

Winners

Besides the Putnam Rotary Club’s Scholarship Fund, winners of the Putnam Rotary Club’s Ronald P. Coderre Golf Tournament on May 27 include:

First Place: 54 Paul Archer Dave Langevin, Tim Whitecross, Bruce Barrett

Second Place: 58 Dr. Jeff Simpson, Dr. Jack Mooney, Joe Malardo, Brian Litke

Third Place: 58 Brendan Meehan, Michael Meehan, Jared Meehan, Courtney Ravenelle

Closest to Pin:

Hole 7: Tim Whitecross

Hole 11: Jim St Jean

Winners of the Ace in the Hole Awards were: Center: Rotarians Jeffrey Rawson and Marc Archambault, flanked by Putnam Rotary President J. Scott Pempek on the left, and tournament namesake Ronald P. Coderre.

Fish Steals Fishing Pole

Posted by Linda Lemmon on May 13, 2022

Fish Steals Fishing Pole

Kids at Rotary fishing derby have a great time
PUTNAM — More than 50 kids came to the banks of the Quinebaug River and had a blast at the 48th annual Putnam Rotary Club Noe Poulin Fishing Derby. When you added the cheerleaders (parents) there were more than 100 people at the event.
After registration, the kids lined the banks of the Quinebaug and started fishing. Awards in three age categories were made and then they were treated to lunch. This year everyone was encouraged to release their fish after they were measured
Awards went to:
Largest Fish – 13 – 15 years old – Trevor Bouchard – 13” yellow perch
Largest Fish – 10 -12 years old – Hailey Rourke – 6 ½” bullhead
Largest Fish – 6 – 9 years old – Jenna Taylor – 29” carp
Largest Fish – 0 – 5 year olds – Savanna Burke – 22” carp
Most Fish caught – Bryce Plouffle – several sunfish
Smallest fish (4” sunfish) – Willow Les Chandler.
The most unique catch - snapping turtle – Izik Alfredo Santigo.
The carp that took off with one of the fishing poles didn’t hang around for his “prize.”
J. Scott Pempek, the Putnam Rotary Club president said: “It was a great event! I’m not sure who enjoyed it more, the kids fishing or the many Rotary volunteers watching the reactions of the kids when they got a bite and were reeling the ‘big one’ in.”
Major sponsor: WIN Waste Innovations which provided the seven major prizes, gift cards to local merchants and 10 additional gift cards as raffle prizes.
In addition: Runnings provided several additional gift cards; Rotarians Fred and Rande Chmura donated and cooked the food for the event; Marcy Dawley from Chase Graphics donated the photo shoot frame. Jenn Brytowski of Chase Graphics helped with the event flyers and with an updated banner for the event; Town of Putnam – use of the bandstand and sound system – closing of Bridge Street. Mayor of Putnam – Barney Seney and Selectman Scott Pempek (also president of the Putnam Rotary Club) opened up the event. More than a dozen Rotarians were also there to help that day.

caption: Jenna Taylor watches Rotarian Marc Allard measure the German carp she caught at the Putnam Rotary Club Noe Poulin Fishing Derby at Rotary Park May 14. Family friend Wayne Burke is holding the fish.

Honored Doug Porter

Posted by Linda Lemmon on May 10, 2022

Doug Porter, left, received a special Paul Harris Plus Six award May 10 based on his level of contributions to Rotary International. At right is Putnam Rotary Club President J. Scott Pempek.

Busy Interact Club

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Apr 27, 2022

The Putnam Rotary Club Interact Club got busy recently putting together toiletry kits for the homeless with all the donated items they collected at the Rotary Day of Service. Club advisor Roberta Rocchetti thanked Karen and Gary Osbrey for providing the workspace for club members. The toiletry kits will go to TEEG, Daily Bread and the local shelters to assist the homeless. Amayah Chavez, Emily St. Martin and Mikayla Walford put together the kits in record time.

At an upcoming Interact meeting club members will be matching and bagging their tie-dyed socks to sell at the club’s Relay For Life table June 4 at Roseland Park.

For more information about the Interact Club call Rocchetti at 860-933-8603.

Putnam Rotary Club Supports Literacy

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Apr 26, 2022

POMFRET --- For the last 6 months, the Putnam Rotary Club has been working with the Pomfret Public Library to enhance the library’s collection of teen books. After meeting with Pomfret librarians to assess their needs and priorities, the club applied for a Rotary Foundation District 7890 Grant, and began planning. A survey was conducted and a Teen Advisory Group was established.

Rotarians and Interact members met with the newly formed advisory group to learn first-hand which authors and book genres interested the teens most. More than 300 new titles were purchased, along with a subscription to the Junior Library Guild which will allow the teen and library staff to choose six new titles each month for one year. Special bookplates were placed inside each book.

The librarians also compiled a “Wish List” of age appropriate board games and club members donated and presented the games at the April Teen Advisory meeting. Project chairperson, Karen Osbrey said, “As soon as fellow Rotarian Marc Archambault approached me with this idea, as an avid reader myself, I was totally on board. Marc and I are thrilled to see all the new titles on the shelves.” Between Rotary Foundation District Grant funding, the local contribution from the Putnam Rotary Club and games donated by club members, a little over $4,500 was spent on this worthwhile project.

The library welcomes input from teens, parents, and educators regarding the teen collection and future programming. For more information, inquire at the Pomfret Library, at 449 Pomfret Street in Pomfret, CT or visit www.pomfretlibrary.org.

‘Banner’ Day For Giving April 9

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Apr 09, 2022

Rotary District 7890 Governor Joanne Alfieri, center, brought the Putnam Rotary Club a banner for the Rotary Day of Service on Saturday, April 9. At left is Putnam Rotary Club President J. Scott Pempek and on the right is Rotarian Karen Osbrey, Day of Service committee co-chair.

The club will be collecting items and donations for the homeless from 9 a.m. to noon April 9 at WINY Radio.

Donations will go to IHSP (Daily Bread), TEEG and the No Freeze Shelter in Danielson. The top priority is monetary donations for emergency housing (make checks out to the Putnam Rotary Club).

Also needed: Toiletries such as shampoo, soap, body wash, toothpaste, tooth brushes, deodorant, razors and shaving cream; towels and wash cloths; manual can openers and flashlights. Also gift cards to local coffee shops, fast food restaurants and laundromats in Putnam, Thompson or Danielson.

All the clubs in two Rotary districts will be having a Day of Service. The Putnam club intends to make it an annual club event. In addition, the club’s Interact Club will be helping out at the Day of Service and they will also be gathering gently used clothing and linen for the Interact Club’s Relay For Life fund-raising efforts.

Big Check. Big Gift Ukraine Disaster Relief

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Mar 29, 2022

Big Check. Big Gift.

PUTNAM --- J. Scott Pempek, president of the Putnam Rotary Club, displays the large check representing the money raised by the Putnam club for the Rotary Disaster Relief Fund. Behind him are the club members who donated so generously.

Pempek said the effort started after he was involved in a Zoom meeting with the Rotary Club of Avon-Canton. The Zoom presentation was a live feed from Kiev, Ukraine.

“That was the impetus to do something,” Pempek said.

Putnam Rotarians “stepped up" with donations and Pempek said the Putnam Rotary Club board voted to match the donations up to $1,000. While the check says $2,000, Pempek said the club actually raised more than that.

And the club’s Interact Club held a carwash and raised a separate $847 toward helping the refugees. Pempek said the Rotary Disaster Relief Fund will work through Rotary International. Almost 100 percent of the funds raised will go toward refugee relief for Ukrainians.

Heartfelt Car Wash

Posted by Linda Lemmon on Mar 22, 2022

The Putnam Rotary Interact Club raised "an amazing $847" in just four hours at its car wash for the Rotary International Ukrainian Emergency Relief Fund, according club advisor Roberta Rocchetti.

She thanked Amayah Chavez of Putnam High School (PHS), club president, for the idea of the car wash and securing Putnam High School for the car wash location.

She also thanked Emily St. Martin, Lynn Rape and Emily Olecki (PHS); Abby Morin, Leilia Mackinnon, and Emma Blanchette (The Woodstock Academy); Sierra Girad of Quinebaug Middle College; Natalia Choruzek (NFA), Mykala Wlford and Iayah Burke of Putnam for taking part; plus advisors Woody Durst, Suzette Lefevre.
For more information about the Interact Club contact Rocchetti 860-933-8603.

Caption: J. Scott Pempek, center, Putnam Rotary Club president, brought his car by the Interact Club's fund-raiser car wash.