76th Annual Rotary Horse Show 2019-09-22 04:00:00Z 0
Coordinated by Jennifer Santos of the Minisink Rotary Club, three Rotary Clubs joined to host a welcome picnic for the new Tuoro College students.  We expected about 120 students for a bbq at Fancher Davidge Park in Middletown, and we had a full house before long.  Real nice kids, or young adults, and fun to chat with over a burger.  
Tuoro College Welcome Picnic 2019-07-24 04:00:00Z 0
75th Horse Show Success! Karen C Miller 2018-10-03 04:00:00Z 0
Posted on Jul 25, 2018
It was a Rotary day!! We had a short Board meeting, then our regular Club meeting with District Governor Chris Giangrasso, followed by another Board session with her. What a dynamo this lady is!! We were blown away by her passion for Rotary, her belief that we CAN do it, whatever our goals are. She also talked about helping fight the opioid crisis in our community and having flexibility in our Rotary organization. We're certain that she will have a wonderful Rotary year as Governor for District 7210!

Tonight some of our members helped with a project led by Minisink Rotary that benefits and welcomes the new Touro College students. I represented Middletown Rotary at Cornell Cooperative's donor recognition event at their new education center in Otisville. Busy day for Rotarians!
It was a Rotary day! 2018-07-25 04:00:00Z 0
2017 Rotary Horse Show 2017-09-11 04:00:00Z 0
it's a new Rotary year and we have a new Rotary president.  Welcome to President Peter Lazier!  We had a successful installation dinner last week where Peter was sworn in by his father, H. Pete Lazier, Past President and Past District Governor of District 7210.  Peter is shown here with our Vice President, George Gruner.
New Rotary leadership 2017-08-02 04:00:00Z 0
Middletown Rotary was proud to recognize Melissa Hidalgo with a Paul Harris Fellowship for her accomplishments as the advisor for our Interact Club at Middletown High School. Pete Lazier and Mark Fellenzer made the presentation. Welcome, Melissa, to Rotary's long list of Paul Harris Fellows. Well deserved!!
Paul Harris Fellow presentation 2017-07-28 04:00:00Z 0
Trail maintenance Karen C Miller 2016-08-09 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Jul 10, 2016
District Governor Nick Constantino recently inducted new president Bob FitzPatrick. 
Installation Banquet Karen Miller 2016-07-11 00:00:00Z 0
Middletown Rotary was recognized tonight with Middletown Kiwanis at the Common Council meeting for funding park benches as part of the King Street pedestrian walkway project. Pictured left to right are Kiwanian Joe Masci, Mayor Joe Distefano and Rotarian President Tom Grazier.
Rotary supports King Street project 2016-04-05 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Jul 17, 2014
Congratulations to all the Rotarians in our District 7210!
We have contributed a total of $185,904.91 in the last year to our Foundation that includes $30,702.77 for Polio Plus (which Gates Foundation will match 2:1)  Even though we did not make $100 per member on our annual giving I am proud of our district. We gave per capita $90.02.  (We have 1,693 members.)  The sad part is we still have 10 clubs who did not give any money to the Foundation!  Hopefully we can do a lot better and now we need to train more people and have a Foundation chair in each club!
A reminder, on November 9, 2014 we will have our annual Foundation Brunch at West Point and I hope we will have an unprecedented number of Rotarians showing up!  I am trying to get an exciting speaker-a peace scholar and hopefully a Foundation trustee also.
Thanks again for making this last year a fantastic year for our Foundation!
Yours in Rotary,
Tam Mustapha
 
 
 
 
Polio Plus contributions Karen Miller 2014-07-18 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Mark Fellenzer on Feb 09, 2014

Mark Fellenzer spoke today about energy.  What is it?  What forms does it take?  How is it measured?  What is the cost per unit?  How can we save on our energy costs? How do engineers and architects plan for the impacts of energy on a building and on our day-to-day lives?

Excellent presentation on a very complex, but presented in a way that everyone not only understood it, but participated in the discussion.  Great job, Mark.

Energy 101 Mark Fellenzer 2014-02-10 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Jul 21, 2012
Middletown Rotary sent four students to RYLA in June.  They are scheduled to speak to our Club at Monday's meeting on July 23rd.  Please be there to support them and to see the difference we make in these young leaders.
RYLA readout Karen Miller 2012-07-22 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Jul 21, 2012
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From rotary.org -

Misioneros del Camino, an orphanage in Sumpango, Guatemala, is a project of the Rotary Club of Guatemala Sur. With help from The Rotary Foundation and the Rotary Club of Northbrook, Illinois, USA, the orphanage now has a new well, dormitories, and a neurological clinic for disabled children, allowing them to undergo on-site rehabilitation.
Rotary around the world Karen Miller 2012-07-22 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Jul 08, 2012
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District Governor Dr. Bill Bassett visited Middletown Rotary today to present the club with a Rotary banner in honor of member Karen FitzPatrick serving as Assistant District Governor.  Karen is starting her second year as ADG for Region 5 and is truly dedicated to the Rotary way of life.  Karen oversees the Region 5 clubs of Mamakating, Middletown, Minisink, Port Jervis, Wallkill East, Monticello, Liberty and Livingston Manor.  Thank you, Karen for all of your efforts to keep our Region on track.
Home Club of Assistant Governor Karen Miller 2012-07-09 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Jun 28, 2012
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It was a hot but beautiful evening on top of the mountain at the Eagle's Nest in Bloomingburg.District Governor Dr. William Bassett was on hand to swear in George Gruner as President of Middletown Rotary Club for the 2012-2013 Rotary year.  One of the surprises of the evening was that George's granddaughter, Amber, was with us, after returning from RYLA only one day earlier.  Dr. Bassett invited her to come to the podium and talk about her RYLA experience.  She said that prior to going to RYLA, she would not have been comfortable speaking to the group without having time to prepare.  She did a wonderful job, and touched our hearts when she closed by saying that she didn't want to leave (RYLA).  We look forward to hearing more from her in coming meetings.
George Gruner sworn in as Club President Karen Miller 2012-06-29 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Paul Halpern on Jun 17, 2012
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Middletown Rotary is sending four Middletown High School students to RYLA on June 24 - 28 at Mount St. Marys College in Newburgh.  Visitng us at this week's meeting were Antonio DiVita and Amber LoFrese, two students who are anxious to attend the RYLA session and are appreciative of the opportunity.  We look forward to all four students joining us AFTER RYLA and hearing all about their experience.

Pictured left to right are PDG Pete Laizer, Lucretia DiVita (Antonio's mom), Antonio, Amber and Congressman Ben Gilman.
Rotarians and students get ready for RYLA Paul Halpern 2012-06-18 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on May 13, 2012
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Janice Valentino from Hospice of Orange & Sullivan Counties, Inc. spoke to our club today regarding the services this organization provides to individuals in their final days of life and to their families. President-elect George Gruner presented Janice with a donation from Middletown Rotary to help continue their much-needed programs.
Hospice of Orange & Sullivan Counties, Inc. Karen Miller 2012-05-14 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on May 13, 2012
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Welcome back to these Rotary snowbirds who recently returned from their winter in a warmer climate.
Left to right are Jim Townsend, PDG H. Pete Lazier, Carl Larson, Mary Jane Petelinz, and Georgia and Ben Gilman.
Our Rotary snowbirds are back! Karen Miller 2012-05-14 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on May 07, 2012
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Dear Rotarians,

The 1st Annual Taste of Middletown was a big hit. Everyone here at The Promenade, and everyone that I have spoken to enjoyed it and wants to know the date for next year! Thank you Peter Abt for your leadership and MaryJane for getting us off to an organized start.

Also, thank you to everyone who pitched in: Tammy and Gerri on the booklet, set-up and clean-up, and all of you who participated in selling tickets, working the bar and registration. I can't say that many hands made light work because moving the tables and chairs at 9:30 last night was exhausting, but working as a Rotary team made it all worth it!

We are still tallying the $$, but we surely know it was a huge success. Thank you again.

Our speaker on Monday will be Janice Valentino, of Hospice.

Board meeting will be on Tuesday, May 15 @ 7:45 a.m. at the Literacy Orange office. Gearing up for the Horse Show, September 23rd. Mark your calendar and let Bobbi know how you can help.

Sincerely,
Christine Rolando
Rotary Club of Middletown
                                                                   (Photos are posted on ClubRunner in the Photo Gallery.)

A Taste of Middletown is a great success! Karen Miller 2012-05-08 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on May 06, 2012
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Bangkok governor M.R. Sukhumbhand Paribatra, 2011-12 RI President Kalyan Banerjee, and Past RI Director Noraseth Pathmanand with children in traditional dress from around the world at the House of Friendship Grand Opening during the RI Convention, 5 May 2012, Bangkok, Thailand. © Rotary International. All Rights Reserved.

Incoming District Governor Bill Bassett and his wife, Sue, are at this convention.  I'm sure others from District 7210 are with them.
Rotary International Convention, Bangkok, Thailand Karen Miller 2012-05-07 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Christine Rolando on Apr 15, 2012
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Andy Komonchak, Executive Director of the Purple Heart Hall of Honor, spoke to Middletown Rotary today about the upcoming Orange County Veterans Day event scheduled for September 29, 2012. Memorial services will be held in the morning at the Orange County Veterans Cemetery in Goshen. All other events will take place at the Newburgh Armory Unity Center in the afternoon. Mark your calendar for a memorable occasion honoring the men and women of the United States Military.  President Christine Rolando presented Andy with a contribution of $500 to support the activities of the Purple Heart Hall of Honor.
Purple Heart Hall of Honor Update Christine Rolando 2012-04-16 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Apr 02, 2012
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Check out our Photo Gallery to see pictures from the Region 5 meeting.  There are two pages of pictures, so take a few minutes and watch the slide show.
Photo Gallery updated Karen Miller 2012-04-03 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Christine Rolando on Apr 02, 2012
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 Dear members:

What a great night! Here is a message from our very own Assistant Governor, Karen FitzPatrick.
Tonight was a great meeting of sharing and pride of Rotary.

Our Vocational Award winners were real everyday examples of Service Above Self. Both show how one person can make a difference.

Alanna Smith, nominated by Wallkill East, was more special in person than on paper.  We were touched  by her humility and the sheer numbers of the children she has inspired. Watching fellow Rotarian Jack Strassman from our Liberty Club being honored and blindsided by Gary Siegel was both amusing and touching.  

Stories such as our local Para Olympian Donna was nothing short of inspirational. It really makes you grateful for all you have. Donna is one tough lady. She makes us proud to know her. Thank you Christine Rolando for bringing her to us.

I don’t know about you but I love the roll call of clubs.  You all do so much for your communities, AND you have fun doing it!  You are busy! We missed you, Monticello Club.

Current presidents, please share last year’s Planning Guide for Effective Clubs with your president-elect. They need to complete and have to me by May 1.

Dates to remember:

                                April 21 - District Assembly Training for your team.

                                May 1 – Planning guide due to me

                                June 8 & 9 – District Conference- Come support our fellow Region 5 Rotarian Bill Bassett

                                          as he becomes our next District Governor. We are proud !!!

                                July 1 – New Rotary year starts.  Day 1 for new administration.  District and  RI dues are due.

                               July 8 Rotafest – Looking for volunteers to work with Region 6.

                               November 11 – Foundation Brunch

                               November ?? - Rotary Leadership Institute

Lastly It was good to see you all tonight. I am proud to be a Rotarian. WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

Remember, first Friday is this week! 

Christine Rolando, President
Rotary Club of Middletown
Region 5 meeting a success Christine Rolando 2012-04-03 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Wheldon Abt on Apr 02, 2012
Let's all focus on our ticket sales for this event.  The Taste of Middletown is only a month away. 

Contact Pete Abt with any questions about this fundraiser.

Tammy Washalski is working on a program booklet for this event.This will include information about Rotary, about our club, the work that we do, Rotary International, a biography of each restaurant and its chef... and more.  It's also a place for your business (and the restaurants) to show your support of the Taste of Middletown. Please consider taking out an ad to support this important fundraiser.

Business card ad: $25

Half page: $50

Full page: $100

"Premium Placement" - center pages, inside front or back cover (based on first-come, first served availability) : $150

 We can take your ad in .jpg for .pdf format or even hard copy. If you want us to create an ad for you for you please let me know. You can send your ad to tammy.washalski@gmail.com  or give it to Tammy at any of the Rotary meetings.  Deadline: April 18

Taste of Middletown is coming very soon! Wheldon Abt 2012-04-03 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Mar 15, 2012
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The World Health Organization has officially removed India from the list of polio-endemic countries. Ghulam Nabi Azad, India's minister of Health and Family Welfare, made the announcement at the Polio Summit 2012 in New Delhi on 25 February. Azad said that he had been informed of WHO’s action by its director-general, Dr. Margaret Chan. 

"It is a matter of satisfaction that we have completed one year without any single new case of polio being reported from anywhere in the country," said Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the summit, which was organized by the government of India and Rotary International. "This gives us hope that we can finally eradicate polio not only from India but from the face of the entire mother earth. The success of our efforts shows that teamwork pays."

India's last reported case was a two-year-old girl in West Bengal State on 13 January 2011. Before polio eradication can be certified in India, it must go two more years without another case of the disease. Polio remains endemic in only three countries: Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Pakistan.

Source:  www.rotary.org

India removed from polio-endemic list Karen Miller 2012-03-16 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Christine Rolando on Mar 15, 2012

Regional Awards & Inspirational Speaker

Donna Ponessa, Para-Equestrian Olympic Contender & Wheel Chair Tennis Competitor

You don’t want to miss this!

Date: Monday, April 2

6:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Dinner, Awards & Inspiration

@ The Promenade at Middletown

70 Fulton Street

Middletown, NY 10990

$18.00 pp

 RSVP to dirlitorange@warwick.net

Or call: 845-494-6257

Christine Rolando

Rotary Club of Middletown

 

Middletown Rotary to host Region 5 Meeting Christine Rolando 2012-03-16 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Feb 13, 2012
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Spouses of district governors-elect and other Rotary leaders show literacy kits they prepared as part of a kit and book donation service project at the International Assembly, 20 January 2011, San Diego, California, USA.   Source:  www.Rotary.org
Literacy Kits Karen Miller 2012-02-14 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Paul Halpern on Feb 09, 2012
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We received these pictures from Haiti showing the distribution of the Plumpy Nut nutritional bars for the children.  I'm sure that you all remember that we spearheaded this project and then the hurricanes came in 2008. 

Four storms--Fay, Gustav, Hanna, and Ike--dumped heavy rains on the impoverished nation. Haiti suffered 793 killed, with 310 missing and another 593 injured. The hurricanes destroyed 22,702 homes and damaged another 84,625. About 800,000 people were affected--8% of Haiti's total population. The flood wiped out 70% of Haiti's crops, resulting in dozens of deaths of children due to malnutrition in the months following the storms. Source: Weather Underground, Inc.

This project has been on hold while Haiti got back on its feet.  We're happy to see that some of the country's children are getting the nutrition they need, thanks to Rotary.  Check the Photo Gallery for more pictures.
News from Haiti Paul Halpern 2012-02-10 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Feb 07, 2012
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There is no cure for polio. The best protection is prevention.

Way to go Rotarians and Rotaractors in Pakistan! The Rotary Club of Lahore Shaheen, Punjab, organized a polio awareness and immunization camp in Lahore on 31 January. Rotarians and Rotaractors vaccinated more than 100 children against the disease, publicizing the camp via banners, text messages, and announcements over the loud speakers of a local mosque. They also distributed pencils and stickers emblazoned with the End Polio Now logo to the children.
Rotary around the world: Vaccinating children against polio Karen Miller 2012-02-08 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Jan 30, 2012
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Dr. Bassett gave an interesting report on his participation in the 2012 International Assembly in San Diego last week.  The room was charged with excitement as Rotary had several pieces of good news related to our fight to eradicate polio from the world.  He kept saying, "and the crowd went wild!" 

 Here's a picture from Rotary.org of the assembly participants as the Gates Foundation made its announcement.

Attendees at the 2012 International Assembly give a standing ovation after Jeff Raikes, chief executive officer of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, announces that the Gates Foundation has awarded an additional US$50 million grant to The Rotary Foundation. Rotary Images/Alyce Henson

Thank you, Dr. Bassett, for attending this important Rotary International event.  Middletown Rotarians look forward to your year as District Governor.

Incoming District Governor Dr. Bill Bassett addresses Middletown Rotarians Karen Miller 2012-01-31 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Jan 29, 2012

CHEERS ...

To the Middletown Rotary, winner of the annual competition to see which local service group can help raise the most in the annual Salvation Army Kettle Campaign. In truth, the real winners are the people in and around Middletown who receive help from the Salvation Army at any time of year. And joining that list of winners are the local people who put their coins and bills into those kettles this holiday season, amassing some surprising statistics. Even though times are tough, and even though those running the campaign had modest expectations, the good instincts of local shoppers provided a surprise. The campaign took in a record $103,000 — double the amount collected the year before, and far above the goal of $85,000.

 from the Times Herald Record, Jan. 30, 2012

Cheers to Middletown Rotary Karen Miller 2012-01-30 00:00:00Z 0
Middletown Rotary wins Kettle Campaign trophy Karen Miller 2012-01-27 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Jan 23, 2012
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Congratulations to Middletown Rotary on winning the Salvation Army Bell Ringing contest again this year.  Captains Angel and Maria Hernandez presented the club with the Bell Trophy on Monday at our weekly meeting.  They shared with our members that the bell ringing in 2010 totaled approximately $50,000 from the community and that the total collected in the kettles in 2011 was more than $103,000.  Even in a tough economy this community is VERY generous.  That generosity was evident in the quantity and quality of toys that were donated for more than 700 children, which included 20 bicycles.  Also, 422 families received a grocery bag with food for a holiday meal.  Thank you to Rotary and the other service clubs who made this a successful holiday season for the Middletown Salvation Army.
Salvation Army Kettle Campaign yields more than $103,000 for community Karen Miller 2012-01-24 00:00:00Z 0
India celebrates one year since last case of polio Karen Miller 2012-01-19 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Jan 18, 2012

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has awarded The Rotary Foundation an additional US$50 million grant for polio eradication.

The Gates Foundation awarded challenge grants to The Rotary Foundation in 2008 and 2009, totaling $355 million, to help end polio. In response, Rotary committed to raising a total of $200 million by 30 June 2012.

The new $50 million grant from the Gates Foundation, which is not a challenge grant,is in recognition of Rotary’s early achievement of the $200 million milestone and of the need for continued funding support for the Global Polio Eradication Initiative.

Gates Foundation awards Rotary Foundation $50M for polio eradication Karen Miller 2012-01-19 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Jan 17, 2012
‎2012 - 2013's Theme --- Peace Through Service
 
PEACE THROUGH SERVICE ... great theme for a great leader ... Incoming District Governor Bill Bassett.
  from  H. Pete Lazier P.D.G.
Peace Through Service ... Theme for 2012 - 2013 Karen Miller 2012-01-18 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Jan 17, 2012
Rotary International has succeeded in meeting the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s US$200 million match in funding for polio eradication, raising more than $202.6 million as of 17 January 2012.
Rotary surpasses its goal for polio eradication! Karen Miller 2012-01-18 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Dec 12, 2011
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Middletown Rotary President Christine Rolando and District Governor Tansukh Dorawala join others at Barnes & Noble to promote Rotary's Reading Impacts Communities book drive. If you're at the Newburgh store, purchase a book and give the gift of reading.
Holiday Book Drive Karen Miller 2011-12-13 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Dec 10, 2011
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Middletown Rotarians send their condolences to the Sawyer family and to Chet's Rotary friends.  We have definitely lost a dedicated Rotarian who lived our motto "Service Above Self."  Rest in peace, Past District Governor Chet Sawyer.

A sad day for Rotary District 7210...

Posted by Nick Constantino

Dear Rotarians: I am saddened to announce that our dear PDG Chester (Chet) Sawyer passed away last night. We will share further details on funeral arrangements when available. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Marge Sawyer and her family.
Best regards, Tansukh Dorawala
PDG Chet Sawyer Karen Miller 2011-12-11 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Nov 06, 2011
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The Warming Center will open its doors on Sunday, December 18 at its new location at St. Paul's United Methodist Church, 58 West Main Street, Middletown.  Volunteers are needed to stay overnight at the Center as a monitor.  Dates in December and January are available.  Rotary members are again asked to provide a hot meal.  Please let Paul Halpern know if you can help.  Remember to cook for 20 and know that the Center has two crock pots and two tray warmers. Meals must be deliverred hot between 8:15 and 8:30 p.m. on the night you volunteer.  Meals are to be delivered to St. Paul's Church at the Mulberry St. entrance.

For more information, contact Don and Marilyn Prendergast at 845-672-9070. 

Middletown Warming Center finds new home Karen Miller 2011-11-07 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Nov 03, 2011
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We are proud to have participated in the 105th Airlift Wing's Deployment Dinner for the 5th year.  This appreciation event for the men and women of the Air National Guard at Stewart Field gives us an opportunity for us to say thank you to these brave men and women.  Thank you to all Rotarians who help us by working and/or providing door prizes and desserts:

Ed and Cathy Behrens

Matt Flanagan

George and Christine Gruner

Paul Halpern 

Ron Helhoski

Carl and Trudy Larson

Bobbi McCormack

Fran Melder and Southwinds Retirement Home

Geri Niblok

Mary Jane Petelinz

Rita Rich and Hans Peters

Christine Rolando and Literacy Volunteers

Maggie Smith

Sandy Soons and Soons Orchard 

Allen Zoghby

My sincerest thanks to all of you, and to the rest of our Rotary Club for allowing us to support this important initiative.  Check out the pictures posted in the Photo Albums!

Karen C. Miller 

105th Air National Guard Deployment Dinner Karen Miller 2011-11-04 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Jul 14, 2011

This is the week that rocked Middletown Rotary.  We lost two past presidents and longtime members in just two days.  Horrific and so incredibly sad.

Bill Myers joined Rotary in 1973 and served as President during the 2001-2002 Rotary year.  He held other positions as well.  I remember visiting the Club in the late 1980's and I'm certain that Bill was the Treasurer.  I think he most enjoyed telling jokes,  making us laugh as guest sergeant-at-arms and encouraging us to reach in our pockets for fines and happy dollars.  Bill made many contributions to the banking industry, notably as President of Middletown Savings Bank and founder of the Community Bank of Orange.  Bill served the Middletown Day Nursery for more than 20 years, the Salvation Army Advisory Board for 30+ years and the United Way.  He was a critical player in the merger of the two chambers to our current Orange County Chamber of Commerce.  When I was President of the SUNY Orange Alumni Association, we honored Bill as Distinguished Alumn.  I recall how long his resume was even then.  Bill was a willing participant in the organizations he supported.  He was not there in name only; he got things done.  In recent years Bill's pride was his grandson, Mikey.  We extend our sincerest sympathies to Mikey; Bill's wife, Pam; and children, Brian and Erin.

Bill Devitt was a quiet giant, a man of great character.  He became a Rotarian in 1984 and was our Club President in 2000-2001.  He was a financial advisor for more than 40 years, most recently for Merrill Lynch and Advest.  He also was a pillar of the community, particularly in the Montgomery area serving as Mayor, school board member and member of the Montgomery Fire Dept.  We knew him best for his 25 years of dedication to Inspire's Foundation.  He continually reminded us of the wonderful work they were doing to make life better for so many Orange County families.  I am thankful that Bill and Mary were able to attend our Installation Dinner in June.  Even though Bill was struggling with his pulmonary disease, he insisted on attending our event, and I'm glad I had the opportunity to speak with him one last time.  Our thoughts and prayers go to the entire Devitt family.

To Bill and Bill:  Thank you for your contributions to our community and especially to Rotary.  You definitely exemplified our motto, Service Above Self.   We will miss you but will strive to meet the standard you have set for us as Rotarians.  Rest in peace, dear friends. 

wh-4p-gd

In memory of two Rotarians and community giants Karen Miller 2011-07-15 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on May 16, 2011
Rob Warren, troop leader for Boy Scout Troop 300, and one of his Eagle Scout candidates worked with the Parks and Rec Dept. to redesign and rebuild the old Rotary trail at Fancher Davidge Park in Middletown.  This trail came under disrepair when a new development was under construction in the area.   The work is nearly complete.  Next on our list is to place a couple of benches along the trail where walkers can sit for a spell and rest or enjoy the quiet of the woods.
Rotary Trail comes to life again Karen Miller 2011-05-17 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on May 15, 2011
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Andy Komonchak, director of development, spoke to our club on May 16 about the Purple Heart Hall of Honor in New Windsor.  Andy has served on the Board of Directors since its inception in 2006 and was the leading force behind the General Petraeus event held at Anthony's Pier 9 on June 25, 2010.  He recently accepted the role of Director of Development for the Board and is spreading the word about this national institution that commemorates the extraordinary sacrifices of America's servicemen and servicewomen who were killed or wounded in combat. The mission of the Hall of Honor is to collect and preserve the stories of Purple Heart recipients from all branches of service and across generations to ensure that all recipients are represented.

Andy said that our veterans see the Hall of Honor as a 'safe place' for them to come and begin talking about their experiences while serving our country and protecting our freedom.

Middletown Rotary stepped up and was the first service club to make a donation to the Purple Heart Hall of Honor.  President-elect Christine Rolando presented Andy and Richie Lay, fellow board member and Purple Heart recipient, with a check for $500 for the campaign to expand the Hall of Honor. 

 

Purple Heart Hall of Honor Karen Miller 2011-05-16 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Apr 19, 2011
ShelterBox Response Teams (SRTs) are working in Japan to deliver emergency shelter and life-saving equipment to families who have lost everything after the earthquake and tsunami on March 11.

To date, nearly 2,200 ShelterBoxes have been committed to the people of Japan as they begin to rebuild their lives, and more than 10,000 of ShelterBox’s winter gloves, scarves and hats are being sent as the freezing conditions continue. 

Families in Japan say "Arigato" (thank you) to ShelterBox and supporters around the world.
ShelterBox relief efforts continue in Japan Karen Miller 2011-04-20 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Apr 19, 2011
The ShelterBox organization, often supported by Rotary, is providing support to Japanese victims of the recent earthquake and tsunami.
ShelterBoxes offer comfort again Karen Miller 2011-04-19 09:16:14Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller on Apr 17, 2011
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When David Halpern and other members of Paul Halpern's family attended today's meeting we put him right to work.  Since we had no speaker we challenged David to step up and talk to the club for 5 minutes about his responsibilities in the Navy.  He immediately accepted the challenge and approached the podium, son in hand. 

David is a Lt. Commander in the Navy.  He is currently finishing a 3-year assignment to the test pilot squadron at the Patuxent River Naval Air Station.  He graduated from the test pilot program that has trained 85% of the Astronauts in NASA, including Alan Shepherd, John Glenn, etc….

In June David and his family are moving back to the state of Washington, where he will be a Department Head in his new squadron, attached to the USS Lincoln aircraft carrier.

Thank you, David, for being a good sport and for providing an insight into your life as you serve our country.

Life in the military Karen Miller 2011-04-18 00:00:00Z 0
Posted by Karen Miller
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We're proud to have Congressman Gilman as a member in our Rotary Club. Already his international experience has proved helpful with our projects in Haiti.
Congressman Ben Gilman Karen Miller 0
Posted by George Gruner
Middletown Rotary will ring bells for the Middletown Salvation Army on Friday and Saturday, December 13 & 14, at the Galleria Mall. Please sign up to help with George Gruner.
Stuff the Kettle! George Gruner 0
Posted by George Gruner
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County Exec Eddie Diana stopped by recently to talk to the members of Middletown Rotary about recent county initiatives.  Not one to be frightened away, Eddie takes on the tough issues head on.  Thank you, Mr. Diana for sharing your side of the story!
County Exec Eddie Diana addressed Middletown Rotary George Gruner 0
Dr. Parida considers RI Assignment in Africa Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
Middletown Rotarians will tour the Orange County Emergency Center an 6 1/2 Station Road (next to the OC Jail) on Monday, January 10th. We'll meet at the center at 11:45 a.m. Thank you Alan Zoghby for making these arrangements.
Emergency Center Tour - Not to be missed! Karen Miller 0
Walmart - Rotary Giving Tree Karen Miller 0
Bell ringing campaign is heating up Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
You can bring to a meeting or drop off at Karen's office. 624 Rte 211E Middletown (next door to Cosimos). Call Karen FitzPatrick at 845-692-5417.
Coats needed for Middletown Cares Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
If you haven't heard, we are proud that our international Plumpy Nut project with our sister club in Pignon, Haiti has been funded.
Plumpy Nut Project funded Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
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Thank you to our 22 Rotarian volunteers for helping make this 4th annual event a great success. Check out the photos on this site to see our team in action.
Deployment Dinner is another success Karen Miller 0
The Big Bleed for the Big Read: A Pint for Poe Karen Miller 0
New and improved Rotary Horse Show Sept. 12 Karen Miller 0
Two prospective members Karen Miller 0
District Governor Phil Schunk visits Middletown Rotary Karen Miller 0
Posted by Christine Rolando
This event is around the corner! Mark your calendar for Sunday, September 12th!
Rotary Horse Show Christine Rolando 0
H. Pete Lazier Golf Outing a success Karen Miller 0
Middletown Rotary celebrates RYLA Karen Miller 0
Middletown Rotary and WalMart partner for kids Karen Miller 0
Paul Halpern sworn in as Rotary President 2010 - 2011 Karen Miller 0
Middletown Police Chief addresses Middletown Rotary Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
The hits keep on coming! President Karen FitzPatrick received an email that Middletown Rotary is in the Top 10 list of District 7210 clubs with the most donations/capita. Our generosity to the Rotary Foundation is being rewarded!
Middletown Rotary recognized again! Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
We heard from the Pignon, Haiti Rotary Club. They are ready to move forward with our Plumpy Nut project, which has been on hold due to the devastation from the earthquake. More to come!!
Plumpy Nut update Karen Miller 0
Mayor Joe DeStefano visits Middletown Rotary Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
Shadrac StLouis and Christine Jacobsen are guidance counselors at Middletown High School and visited Middletown Rotary on May 24th. Shadrac StLouis is a native of Haiti and very concerned about the needs of his community. He and Christine traveled to Haiti during spring break and brought 55 drums packed with clothing, food and medical relief kits.
A firsthand look at the rebuilding in Haiti Karen Miller 0
GSE Team visits Region 5 Karen Miller 0
Rotarian families celebrate Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
Monroe Rotarian Pat Green spoke about her trips to Cameroon in Africa and her efforts to improve life for the locals.
CRAT Cameroon Karen Miller 0
Region 6 GSE dinner Karen Miller 0
Allen Zoghby - ice cream brings notoriety Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
Tony Figueroa, director and Joe Czajka, special projects for ReCAP spoke to the club about this program. It's goal is to make home ownership affordable for some.
Neighborhood Stabilization Program Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
Terry Spiro and Christine Rolando are coordinating our annual Installation Dinner at Catlin Gardens on June 11th. If you have any items you would like to donate for a silent auction, please contact them.
Installation Dinner Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
Small repairs are needed for the rink this year. The committee continues to find ways to make this a memorable event for Rotary. Stay tuned for more information.
Horse Show update Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
We're looking to award Paul Harris Fellows this year using Club points earned from our Polio Plus donation. Also several members have accumulated inidividual points that can be used to help others become Paul Harris Fellows or move to the next level of support.
Rotary Foundation Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
Our Club will send FOUR Middletown High students to this week-long youth leadership event at Mount Saint Mary's College June 27 - July 1. Participants will visit our Club on July 12 to share their RYLA experiences.
RYLA - Rotary Youth Leadership Award Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
Thomas G. Katsahnias, WalMart Store Manager Town of Wallkill, is being proposed for membership by Karen FitzPatrick. He was instrumental in the success of our holiday project in partnership with his store. Prior to hiring on with WalMart Tom was a captain in U.S. Army and served in Iraq. He attended our March 22 meeting and was interested in the community work Rotarians are doing.
Prospective new member Karen Miller 0
Little red carts Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
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The Paramount Theater is a great treasure from the past in Middletown. Recently appointed Assistant Director for Paramount Operations, John Moultrie joined Middletown Rotary on Monday to talk about the history and beauty of this old theater. Lots in story for upcoming events. If you have ideas of what shows you'd like to see, give John a call.
John Moultrie talks about the Paramount Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
Thank you to all Rotarians who have helped with this project! The feeding schedule is full through the end of March.
Warming Station update Karen Miller 0
Gary Groo recognized by Middletown Kiwanis Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
Deacon Thomas Jordan has joined us at several club meetings and helped us with the adopt-a-family project this year. We are considering him for Rotary membership.
Prospective Member Karen Miller 0
Rotary responds again! First ShelterBoxes sent to Chile - Karen Miller 0
ShelterBox update, one month in Karen Miller 0
Rotary responds to need in Haiti Karen Miller 0
Middletown Rotary recognized for PolioPlus pledge Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
The Middletown Kiwanians are taking home the bell ringing trophy for their efforts at the Salvation Army kettle over the holidays. Rotary will be back for the battle of the kettle next year! The service clubs raised more than $7,000 for the Middletown Salvation Army's efforts to help those in need in our community.
Congratulations to Middletown Kiwanis Karen Miller 0
Paul Halpern scheduling hot meals for Warming Station Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
Gary Groo announced that his annual Shoe Drive starts on January 16th. Drop off your gently used shoes at Groo's Shoes.
Time to clean out your closets! Karen Miller 0
Rotary holiday party Karen Miller 0
Rotary Giving Tree a great success Karen Miller 0
Another prospective Rotarian Karen Miller 0
Middletown Rotary fulfills PolioPlus pledge Karen Miller 0
Middletown Rotary supports Literacy Orange Karen Miller 0
Jeanne Dion thanks Middletown Rotary Karen Miller 0
Prospective Member Karen Miller 0
Walmart - Rotary Giving Tree Karen Miller 0
Deployment Dinner, Nov 5 2009 Karen Miller 0
Busy time for Rotary Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
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Republican Jimmy Kitson and Democrat Joe DeStefano participated in a panel discussion of the issues facing the City of Middletown.
Mayoral candidates face Rotary Karen Miller 0
Honda Mavrix Motorsports Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
PDG Chet Sawyer (1990-1991) is no stranger to Middletown Rotary and he was welcomed again yesterday to represent Knut Johnson, serving as District Chair of the Rotary Foundation for a three-year term.
PDG Chet Sawyer speaks about Rotary Foundation Karen Miller 0
Matt Flanagan named Paul Harris Fellow Karen Miller 0
Rotary's 66th Horse Show Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
Middletown Rotarians joined other local Rotarians and Rotoract members to learn about Rotoplast
Rotoplast Karen Miller 0
Fred Smith Lifetime Achievement Award Karen Miller 0
Posted by Karen Miller
Paul Halpern, Gert Mokotoff and Dr. Parida reported great news regarding this project.
Plumpy Nut update Karen Miller 0
Rotary supports Middletown Cares Karen Miller 0
District Governor Green visits Middletown Rotary Karen Miller 0