Stories

Belize is not just paradise for those that seek underwater adventure.  According to Mike Pollen of Fairbanks fame, it is also a prime location for an International water project that could further advance a budding civil society.  Its one thing to have and produce potable water but to ignore the value of proper disposal of waste water can in fact have more than harmful effect.  In Belize there is little resources to support their growing population.  Mike reported that Belize has built a number of quality schools but has neglected to provide sanitary restrooms.  The condition of most of the schools restrooms were so poor that by the time a young lady was to reach womanhood, they would quite going to school.  Last year Past President Pollen stated that his club built three different restroom buildings for three different schools.  He was able to do it by partnering with a local Belize Rotary group along with other clubs.  They took advantage of Rotary's International grants and built the restrooms for approx. $30,000. each.

Gear up Russian Jack Rotary!  Gary Gantz and President Tom Elton might look to hitch on with Mike Pollen and his Belize Sanitary Breeze.  

It was a rousing contest to see who was going to be the victor of the ultimate prize known as the "No Fine" Button.  That right Folks for the up coming weeks Gary get to tell any joke of his choosing and there is nothing we can do about it.  He can tell his stories.  He can talk of his Political view points, he can advertise his friends or family, he can even give our President Tom a extra helping of ribbing.  

Thank Gary for all that he does for our Club!  Perhaps next month you will find use for the Button of free speech.

Don is currently looking for someone to arrange speakers for August.  If you have not been assigned a month you might expect a call from Don or perhaps you might consider switching from your currently assigned month. We have always enjoyed top speakers so lets fill August.

Just stay a little longer on July 14th to help Tom Plan his year as Rotary President.  There will be a lot to talk about.  Should we do an International Project in Belize?  What community Service projects should we participate in?  How are our raffle tickets progressing?  

Be there!  

Anchorage Russian Jack Rotary has always embraced the efforts of the non-profit known as NeighborWorks Anchorage.  We have had two past members serve as the President of their board of Directors, Charlie Michael’s wife Mary Jane was the Executive Director, and currently David Hudspeth serves of the board.   Our club was one of the first service organizations to sign up for the popular Paint the Town program where we assist a family in need of an exterior enhancement of their home. 

On Dec. 3^rd David Hudspeth introduced our club to Hazel, John and Ginger who wanted to thank our club for our past efforts and explain in detail their mission and vision of providing affordable housing and strengthening neighborhoods.  The literature that was provided states “The Mission of Neighborworks Anchorage is to improve the quality of life for families and individuals by preserving homes, creating new housing opportunities and strengthening neighborhoods.  The challenges facing our families, neighborhoods and communities are ever increasing.  In these uncertain economic times, it is crucial to make housing opportunities available to everyone.  Success starts at home.  Good health, great education, stable employment; it all starts with a quality affordable place to live….home matters.” 

This years Neighborhood of focus is our very own Russian Jack community.  In their assessment phase, John reported that 89% of those interviewed liked living in the Russian Jack Neighborhood.  It is conveniently located, with good park space, friendly people.  However of those renting that were interviewed, most opposed the idea of buying a home in Russian Jack because of the crime. 

So come spring time dust off your painting clothes RJR members because I’m sure there is a home a waiting for a brush stroke or two.  

Every year Rotary declares November as it’s month to raise awareness for our very own Rotary Foundation and the good works that it supports worldwide.  On Tuesday Morning November 26^th Charlie Michael was all business in his presentation on our clubs participation with the foundation in the past and the possibilities for the future. 

Charlie reminded our membership that we are a 100% sustaining membership where each member of our club contributes a minimum of $100 per year.  As a result a very large % of our club are Paul Harris Fellows (Those that contribute $1,000.)  and there are several that  sport Paul Harris pins with multiple sapphires (Each sapphire representing one thousand dollars).

Charlie made a point that the foundation is there for a good number of reasons.  Polio Plus is so very close in eradicating Polio.  The Annual fund is there to help support our efforts in our projects.  If you have a good idea for a service project and can show the ability to see it through, perhaps we can obtain a grant to help support the endeavor.  With the assistance of an International grant we can go beyond our boarders and provide a sustainable difference for those in need. 

Hey Rotarians!   We sold all the raffle tix that we had with us at the Lumen Christi gun show.   Please bring money and unsold tix to the mtg Tues AM. We still need to go to Navy League, and a coupla other Rotary clubs before 19 Dec. Sales are super good ,but they can always be a bit better.     Best, Don R

At our Board meeting on November 21st Rick Dawson introduced an International Service project that he proposed to our International Director Tom Elton.  The project would be in assisting the deaf students at Escuela de Education in San Miguel de Allende. They are hoping to obtain funding for transportation of their student from rural communities to their one of a kind school.  Their school is the only hope these deaf children have in obtain an education.

The link to their school is www.eeesma.com

The request is coming from a fellow rotarian in San Miguel who would be coordinate with his club to ensure proper reporting and feed back.

The cost of bus transport for the children traveling from a community outside of San Miguel (approximately one hour 

Let it be known that on November 19th Hardy Johnson was inducted into the rights and privileges of membership with The Anchorage Russian Jack Rotary Club.  Sponsored by Harold Wilson and Introduce by Rosey Brown, President Mac Carey made it official by presenting Hardy with his membership packet and pinning him as a Rotarian.

Congratulations To Hardy Johnson!!!

Kim Colbo is so Dang Cool!!  For those that missed it Kim hosted our November Board Meeting at her Penthouse, swank Board Room.  She provided Pizza, soda and Im told there was fudge. In attendance was President Elect Jordan Eastman, Sergeant at Arms Harold Wilson, Secretary Kim Colbo, Past President Eluid Delgado, Community Service Director Rick Dawson, Club Service Director Anabel Galindo, Membership Chair Gary Gantz, Speaker Coordinator David Hudspeth, Past President Peter Land and New Member Hardy Johnson.

Our Future Service Projects were reviewed.  Our Scholarship funding was analyzed.  A promising International Project was formally introduced.  And it was just great to see Hardy!!!  Did I mention that Anabel made it----Cool!! 

Currently Robin is serving as the Executive Director of the Alaska Home Builders Association.  On November 19^th she reported to our membership of the importance of having a strong builders association.  Repeatedly she mentioned that she has worked in the Shelter industry: “Shelter” being one of the very basic needs for humanity.  The focus of Robins talk was that the Alaska Home Builders Association is on the forefront of assuring Alaskan’s of proper shelter from Alaska’s harsh climates.

The threats to our ability to obtain quality shelter are many.  There are compliance issues with the quality of contractors that build our homes.  The basics are to make  sure that you have a reputable qualified Contractor on your side. Check their insurance and license.   Robin states that there are Political encumbrances that go beyond equity building measures for homebuyers, mandatory sprinkler systems for an example.  The thirty Year Mortgage is even under review as well as the affordable measure of premium mortgage assistance.  As these threats arise, Robin points out that it is the lobbying efforts of the Alaskan Home Builders Association that has consistently been there to ensure Alaskan’s of Quality, Affordable Housing. 

There will be no meeting on the Morning of Dec. 17th.  

Our meeting has been Moved Upstairs to the Penthouse on Dec. 19th.  Thats Right!! We are a Moving on Up!!  To the Deluxe Penthouse in the Sky!!!  Jefferson Style Baby!!!  On the evening of Dec. 19th come and enjoy Cocktails at 5:30 PM Dinner will be served----later---.  Bring that someone special to you and lets Celebrate!!!  Tis the Season for Christmas!  So bring you gift for the exchange and relax and enjoy the smooth sounds of  Dereck Delgado and Malie. 

Thats Right!!! Tis the Season for Wreath Making!! On December 10th we will NOT be meeting at the Westmark in the Morning instead you can sleep in and gather for our meeting at 6:00 PM at Dimond Greenhouses- The growing place. 

 Join your fellow Rotarians in the Family fun action event of the year.  Watch Darryl Leiser as he skillfully creates his evergreen pieces of Christmas magic.  Or better yet laugh at your President who still struggles in manipulating #9  wire and boughs of branches around a steel hoop.  Bring your, spouse friends and Family.  This is an event not to be missed.  There will be Pizza, drinks, and a room full of cheer.  

Novemeber 11^th Gloria brought us Alyeska Title who sent us three of their best representatives to give our membership a clinic in the Life and Times of the Title Insurance Industry.  Business Development coordinator Kelly was their lead off presenter who covered the basics of the operations of a Title Company.  She explained that her industry assists their cliental with perfecting the paperwork that allows them to realize the American dream of owning a home and other property.  Kelly explained that her office is charged with coordinating the formal documents, establish the correct transaction financials and to establish the formal agreements beyond a casual handshake.

Next up was Samm Eldrum who explained what Title Insurance is.  Unlike Home, car or other traditional Insurance policies that protect consumers of future events, Titlle Insurance protects you from the past.  The idea is to be able to show the chain of warranty deeds to a property, to ensure the buyer that the property is as presented by seller: to expose all liens and encumbrances to a piece of property.  Commonly title insurance is a Bank requirement for those that take out a loan on property.  A Bank is looking for assurances that they will be in first position on any property they holding as collateral. 

Ti’anna Branchner closed out the presentation by explaining how Title insurance affects our National economy.  Tianna stated that Title Insurance Industry returns back to our economy a little over one hundred million dollars each year.  This financial gain is accomplished by clearing the different liens and encumbrances attached to the properties that they work on.  Examples of these liens would be for back taxes, IRS liens, child support, and other judgments that can be attached to the property as a lien.   

Every Now and then you just need to change things up a bit.  This week we are going over to check out the pancakes over at the hilton.  Do they really make the best pancakes in town??  Lets go and find out.  Nov. 5th we will be meeting at the Hilton cafe.  It could be interesting!!!

Rotaract of Anchorage is alive and well with Ann Marie at the helm.  As a past Ambassadorial  Scholar of Rotary, Ann Marie returned to Anchorage with an International Rotary resume that marked her positive impact in the world.   With a desire to expand on her experiences she joined the Anchorage Rotarct club.  This was ideal for her and many young folk who are just starting the professionl phases of their lives.  A Rotaract club offers some flexibility and does not weigh heavy on the check-book. 

It was reported that the Anchorage Rotaract Club specializes on hands on projects.  They are often recruited to work on a number of different club projects where raw labor is a key to success.  They have cleaned creeks, cooked mass amounts of chili to feed the hungry.  They assisted in the mobile food pantry; cleaned roads painted homes and and and----

On Tuesday the 29^th they were supporting the foundation.  They carved a multiple pumpkins and auctioning them off at different clubs.   Charlie Michael was the proud bidder at $50 to decorate his home with a ghoulish looking Jack O’Lantern.  Mac Carey was duped into his bid at $70 dollars for an Owl carved Pumpkin.  Good Fun.    

What a Good Time!!  

Thank you to all that made the The Thirty Anniversary of Anchorage Russian Jack Charter.  Cocktails were poured, jokes were told, songs were sung and dog-gone it--- it just isn't a party with out the Paramedics knocking at our door.  Don you know how to make an evening exciting.

I would like to say that the special moment of the evening came when our lone Charter member Charlie raised his glass in tribute to Bob Bowin and Jerry Harrington who founded our club, but the moment of the evening was witnessing Tish Hudspeth being pinned with a Paul Harris by her Brother Charlie.  Ahhh sweet.  

Thank you to Derrick and Maile for sharing their musical talents with us. I believe we will all be saying that we knew them when....

In the end--i just want to know who invited Owen???? 

Once known as the Anchorage convention and Visitors Bureau, Visit Anchorage believes that all that live in Anchorage is touched by the economic impact of Tourism.  At base we all enjoy the downtown flowers of summer.  World class restaurants full in the summer and easier for us locals to obtain a reservation in the winter.  Even the Alyeska resort that is full of tourist in warmer weather is our winter playground in the cold and snow.  

Anchorage has a bed tax of 12% to help maintain our city as a Tourism destination.  The Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center is well used and has acted as a catalyst to fill our restaurants, hotels and other industries that are enhanced due to tourism.   The Executive Director of Visit Anchorage Julie Saupe communicates that of the 20 million or so that comes from the bed tax  one third goes to the city, one third to Visit Anchorage (To market Anchorage) and one third to the Dena’ina Center.  

Tuesday Morning Barry White invested in our Clubs No fine button.  This will allow him and his pocket book to arrive at our club feeling safe and free from Harold's menacing fines.  He will be able to advertise his business endevors or any other causes he wishes to promote.  Please thank Barry for his contribution.

If you want a Good Life?  Marry a woman from Duluth!!
Vocational talks offer our club members a deeper understanding of each other.   How did we arrive at our current station in life?  What path did we take upon arrival?  What are the motivating factures that enhances our lives great personal joys.  For each of us our journey is different.  On October 15^th 2013, our newly accepted member Denny Willeck shared his journey that has brought him to his current vocation as a Regional Leader with Primerica.

It didn’t take long in Denny’s talk to understand that this man is well grounded.  He comes from good stock in Minnesota and received his education in Earth Sciences from the University of Minnesota Duluth.  To further prove his intelligence he married a Duluth Gal and proceeded on an adventure that would take him to the hot sands of Saudi Arabia near Yemen and the bitter ice fields of Alaska.

Out of University, Denny signed on with the Air force; which is how he came to explore the sands near Yemen.  With a Passion for Geology Denny ventured out often camping out and filling in his down time in search of stones known as dessert roses, 7 thousand year old arrow heads and 30 million year old shark teeth.  Complements of the Air Force, Denny also traveled to Germany where he spent his down time studying the financial markets with a focus on Mutual fund trading. 

Denny retired from the Air force at Elmendorf Air base and thought he would try his hand in the world of Construction.  In two years time he found success but was more intrigued by the world of finance.  With a keen sense of financial survivorship Denny often found himself explaining the financial world to family and friends.  It was all too natural to sign up with Primerica and help educate/ service those in need of solid financial advice.

Alright so we have all met Denny and know that he has his charm.  Now come and find out where Denny has been and how he arrived to be Regional Leader in his vocation. Didn't Harold introduce him as the other guy in the sauna----Ok---so now we will learn more.

Steve Pratt was in the House to talk to the Members of Anchorage Russian Jack Rotary about Anchorages Natural Gas supply and what we can expect from our utility companies in the near future.  Steve Pratt serves on the Mayors Energy Task force along side of Bill Popp, Tony Izzo, Judy Brady and others that have expertise in planning, business and our Natural Gas fields. 

In 2009 Anchorage was very concerned with the decline of our Natural Gas Fields and a looming energy crisis for our residents. Cheveron had pulled out and the Mayor responded by creating an Energy Task Force to help maintain a dependable, sustainable energy force for the City of Anchorage.  The task force is charged with making both short term and Long term recommendations.

Historically, natural gas was a bi product of oil exploration, which was abundant and cheap.  The gas pressure from the Cook Inlet oil fields was impressive.  It was common to flare the gas and simply burn it off into the atmosphere.  With a ready made supply of energy an agreement ensued to use the gas to supply Anchorages energy needs (95%).  Enstar was born and soon our electricity was produced using Natural Gas.   To keep up with the high pressure a plant was opened on the Kenai Peninsula to manufacture fertilizer.  On a cold day if our utility companies were of need of a greater supply they would simply open the valve a little more to adjust to the demand.

The fields that once produced the high pressure Natural Gas were recently thought to be in decline.  Last winter Anchorage survived a harsh winter due to the forward thinking of a gas storage facility for times of high demand.  Hilcorp has purchased the oil fields of Chevron, which represents the majority of the gas, that fuel Anchorage. Hilcorp has utilized new technology that helps maintain pressure and for the next 3 to 5 years we look to have a short-term surplus.  Tax incentives were created for exploration and there have been some finds but will not come on line for some time. 

Steve brought forth the concern that we have contracts for gas that are good until 2018.   He is concerned with what our gas prices might be after 2018 if we can’t get another source to Anchorage.  He responded that he was in favor of a gas pipeline. 

Happy Anniversary Members of RJR!!!  Come celebrate on the evening of October 24th at Mac and Tricia's Home 5910 West Dimond Blvd.  There will be Cocktails---  Could we truly celebrate our 30th anniversary!!  Our Charter Member Charlie Has the stories--they most be told. There will be toasts, there will be song, and a cocktail party accompanied by Tricia's Lasagna.    The 24th just sounded like a better date for many members.

 Hosted by Mac and Tricia at 5910 West Dimond blvd. 6:30 cocktails and 7:00 dinner.  Cocktails and Dinner will be hosted.  There will be a chance to donate to the foundation.  

On October 3rd the board members of Anchorage Russian Jack Rotary meet at Kim Colbo's office.  There was agendas, budgets and important discussion.  In attendance was Mac Carey, Kim Colbo, David Hudspeth, Don Rogers, Rosey Brown, and Denny Willeck.  It was agreed that our regular meetings are going well with great programs.  

Chelsea Berg introduced Bill Pop, executive director of the Anchorage Economic Development Corporation, as our guest speaker on the morning of October 1^st.  Bill’s resume is long and distinguished.  Interesting that Bill further informed us that he is a avid gardener and at one time was a private business owner with two different music stores in Homer and Kenai.  Currently he is tasked with assisting in making Anchorage Alaska the #1 city in America to Live. Work and Play.

Bill joined us to share his findings of different indicators in different sectors that would indicate if we are gaining on being #1.   It was reported that for the first time ever, Anchorage will have a population that exceeds 300,000 by the years end.   Our unemployment levels are low and that our base employment pool is shallow.  Bill made a fair argument that we need to do a better job in preparing our youth for the workforce.  If someone doesn’t have a job it is because they are lacking in life skills. 

Bills demographics spurred a spirited discussion on the pros and cons of large box stores being the base of our retail landscape.  Recently the owner of Mt. View Sports wrote an editorial claiming that the local store makes our economy stronger by keeping our money in state to circulate.   As oppose to a box store that sends our dollars outside. 

What seemed interesting to me is that we now have 300,000 People that believe that Anchorage is the #1 city in America to Live, work and Play.  If they didn’t then they would move to somewhere else. 

Kim Colbo has once again offered up her penthouse board room for the Russian Jack board meeting.  She states that there will be pizza, soft drinks of choice and good discussion. We have a 30 year anniversary Charter night Party in October to talk about as well as Future Service Projects to be considered.  

Bill Popp is always fun to have as a guest speaker.  As the Executive Director of Anchorage Economic Development Corporation he tracks all of Alaska's critical economic data and try's to make sense of what the data is telling us.   He will bring the satistics that shows us not only where our economy has been but where we are going.  The indicators are fun to look at and who knew that at one time flat would be a good indicator.  

His organization is charged to help attract businesses to Anchorage.  How can this be accomplished?  Bill Popp/AEDC goal is to make Anchorage the number one city to work, live and Play in.  Cool Job!

On a cold September 24^th morning Matt Thomas, the new head coach of our UAA Hockey team, joined our membership for a plate of eggs, couple of links of reindeer sausage and some Seawolves Hockey talk.  Matt talked of his past hockey experiences, his up- bringing, education and basic blue collar work ethic.   At a proud 5’6” he is accustomed to be underestimated, he has proved himself up through the ranks as a player in the NHL and a Collegiate coach as early as at age 28.  

His methods of teaching/coaching hockey has consistently proved to elevate the programs that he has coached to winning season.   Most recently he coached the professional ranks of the Stockton Thunder to win the Kelly Cup.  He knows that Anchorage is a hockey town as it was never easy to play the Aces on their home ice.  Coach Thomas is excited to help elevate the Seawolve to their prominence once more being relevant in the WCHA as well as the hearts of Anchorage Hockey fans.

Matt made mention of his wild ride to Anchorage and his becoming Coach,  he simply suggests that we got it right, and he can’t wait to introduce us to UAA Hockey Matt Thomas Style.   Come and See!!!

Thanks to the good efforts of our very own Community Service director Rick Dawson and crew, our Adopt a Highway project is concluded for another season.  On September 18th a hardy crew assembled to once agin clean up the mean streets of Anchorage.  Gary Dixon even brought his own orange vest for the project.  It was good to see Safety Officer Don Rogers with his trusty pick-up stick ready for the challenge.  Anabel made an appearance, as well as did Barry White, President Mac was late. Well done All!!

Sept. 24th is Hockey day at Anchorage Russian Jack Rotary.  UAA's new Hockey Coach Matt Thomas is coming to talk about the upcoming season.  Come hear his new game plan of excellence on the ice.  Call your neighbor! Invite a co-worker!  Hockey pads are optional.  There will be no checking.

Kara Moriarty, Executive Director of Alaska Oil and Gas Association, stated a counter point to Bill Walkers opposition to SB 21.  Her position seemed to be summed up in the slogan of “Work Together, Win Together.”

Kara introduced the Alaska Oil and Gas Association as a business trade association that represents the majority of oil and gas exploration, production, transportation, refining and marketing activities in the state.  Their mission is “To foster the long-term viability of the oil and gas industry in Alaska.”  AOGA believes that their mission and those of SB21 align.

With out surprise, Kara stated that the Oil and Gas industry has been very good for Alaskans.  The state of Alaska has collected $160+ Billion for the Oil and Gas since 1959.  The State estimates 90% of it’s revenue will continue to come from oil and gas- even with falling production.  There has been very little new investment in oil of recent years and Alaska has currently fallen to forth in the oil producing states.

Senate Bill 21 is an improvement over Aces and provides crucial tax reform.

-It eliminates high Aces progressivity.

-It maintains key credit provisions.

-It creates incentives for new production from legacy fields.

-It makes Alaska attractive to compete for investment.

So now we have heard both sides of the debate; for and against SB 21.  Which side do you believe to be the best? 

Gary Gantz has arranged for the Executive Director of Alaska Oil and Gas Association Kara Moriarty to address Oil and Gas taxes.  This month Gary has brought us two different speakers that will take up both sides of our oil and gas Tax issue. Last week Bill Walker stated that he does not agree to lowering our oil taxes with out a promise for performance.  Now we will listen to the AOGA position of why a lower tax would be good for our state.  

Independent Candidate for Governor Bill Walker on Oil and Gas Tax

Candidate for Governor Bill Walker was invited to speak to Anchorage Russian Jack Rotary about his position on Alaska’s Oil and Gas Tax.  Mr. Walker displayed great resolve by staying on topic rather than stumping for votes in his campaign to become our next Governor.  

With great passion Bill Walker spoke of his dissatisfaction about the legislative passage of the massive oil tax reform.  He stated that he was concerned with the billions in state revenue that were given away to the oil industry with no commitments in return.  He thought it would have a negative impact in our States future funding of education, public safety, infrastructure development and essential services.   He is in favor of a referendum effort to restore our oil and tax rates back to those of Aces.

President Mac Carey requested a volunteer to assit in a Anchorage wide effort to celebrate Rotary during Furrondy time.  President Rotary Doran of Anchorage South and others are looking to host a big tailgating party at Chilcoots to celebrate Rotary and perhaps draw new members.  Rick will represent Anchorage Russian Jack Rotary in the planning.

Don't miss Bill Walker!!!  Gary Gantz brings us the first part of a two part discussion on Alaska's Oil tax and you. The first being presented by An Alaskan Leader Bill Walker!!  So bring a friend!  Bring your nieghbor! Read up on Alaska's oil tax and ready your self for a lively discussion. See ya in the Morning.

By all accounts it sounds like our raffle is doing well.  Remember that this is our main fundraiser and all need to participate for it to be successful.  All you need to do is ask some one if they would like to support our efforts with a chance to win something special.  It's hunting season so now is the time.

August 27th Marked the day that Gary Dixon became to newest arrival to the Anchorage Russian Jack Rotary Ranks.  Say hi and make Gary feel at home.  There have been rumors that both Rick Dawson of Club Service and our Speaker coordinator David Hudspeth have big plans for our new boy on campus. I believe Gary to be a great guy that will fit right in with our mix.  Welcome Gary!!! 

On Tuesday morning the 3^rd of September Russian Jack hosted one of the most coveted speakers currently on the circuit, Ken Helander.  Mr. Helander is currently speaking on the timely issue of Health Care and how the new Laws will benefit You.  The law starts kicking into gear this October 1^st 2013.  Gary Gantz introduced Ken as the Associate State Director of Advocacy for AARP. 

Mr Ken Helander was put together a presentation to try and demystify what the new Health Care reform laws mean to us and how it effect our small business’s.  He started by pointing out that he was not there to debate Obama Care as much as to recognize the new Health Care law and what action was needed to come into compliance with it.

The Key Dates are as follows:
October 1^st—Small businesses and individuals shop in the market place.
January 1, 2014—Individuals are required to have Health insurance.
2014 Tax Year—Small business tax credit increases to 50% of employer healthcare cost.  There will be premium assistance available for individuals.

He pointed out that there are three different categories of Business to consider.
-Under fifty employees, which makes up 96% of small businesses.  These businesses will not be required to offer insurance.  There will be no penalties for not offering insurance.
-Fifty Full time employees and over are not required to offer health insurance until the beginning of 2015.  At that time it will be mandatory to offer health care of face penalties.
-The Self Employed will be treated as individuals rather than small businesses.  They will be able to Shop the individual Health Insurance Marketplace and could qualify for premium assistance. 

The good news is that there will be a Samll Business Tax Credit program.  This is meant to assist Businesses with fewer than 25 employees who are paying wages of less than $25,000.  In 2014 the credit can cover up to 50% of the employer insurance cost.  To find our more you can go to www.irs.gov/sbhtc

Our August board meeting was well attended right after our regular meeting.  District Governor Sue Foley said that she enjoyed the energy of our meeting.  She was also pleased with our records and how we are keeping them current.  She further stated that she and her team are there to assist us in our goals as well as those she mentioned earlier.

For the most part the meeting was focused on budget and discussion of upcoming projects.  Rick Dawson mentioned he will keep a good eye open for a worth while endeavor that would fit our skills.  It was decided that our club would help support the work of Service Dogs to the tune of $1,000.  Eliud Delgado reported that our fund raiser is right on target. 

President Mac is a little excited about Duck Openner this year.  The meeting was announced via Duck Call to Arms.  It was established that on August 27^th Mac wanted to find out just who in the Russian Jack Rotary club was in fact the best Duck caller.  With $100 On the line to be contributed to the winners Paul Harris, the Duck call was pasted about the room with each member giving a notable Qwack!!  It should be noted that both Chelsie and Gloria were in the running until Tom Elton (I thought Tom would be the best Qwack) and Rick Dawson blew the roof off with their Hen mating calls.  In the End Rick Dawson was victorious.  Being a true champ, Rick donated his loot to our incoming President Jordan Eastman.  Stay tuned to see who will unseat Rick in next years calling.

With Coffee Cup in hand Our District Governor Sue Foley (Joined by her Husband Harold and Assistant Dist. Gov. Kjersti Parker) stopped by to join our membership to see if President Mac’s claim of Best Coffee served was indeed the Truth.  When pressed for judgment; The Gov. indicated, with an ever so slight nod, our club does indeed have something special going on.

One by one Governor Sue went over her 5 point goals for 2013-2014.  Grow membership was at the top of her list. 

-Overall she would like to grow membership by 3%.  She made it clear that she is here to assist the smaller clubs any way she can. 

-Sue wants to get the word out about what Rotary has to offer by enhancing our public image.  She encouraged us to integrate RJR promotions with the Districts state wide advertising efforts.

-Increase giving to Rotary Foundation.  She is hoping for a 5% increase across the district in Annual Pro-gram fund.

-Sue not only wants to see us succeed in our Service Projects she wants to help us celebrate.  She encouraged us to seek grants so that our resources and leverage our efforts.

-Her last point was to support our youth.  She asked that we look to include Rotaract in our service projects. 

Overall Sue is having fun and wishes us a prosperous Rotary Year.  She highly encouraged us to attend the conference held on May 15-18 here in Anchorage at the Captain Cook.  

On Saturday August 24th from 10:00 to 5:00 RJR members are called to work the front doors of Carrs on Huffman.  The objective is to make sure all the good folks entering and leaving are given the opportunity to be a winner.  Support our number one fundraising project that provides for our scholarships and multiple service projects.  The fall is coming and with it the hunting season.  It has been reported that we have now raised over $5,300 so far.  Job well done but we can do better.  There is no time better to sell raffle tickets for our Gun prize. If you would like to sign up for a time contact Eliud at eliud.rotary@gmail.com

Thats right!!!  The secret is out!!  Russian Jack Rotary has the best Coffee; and on August 27th our District Governor Sue Foley is coming over to judge our cup of Joe (Well actually, Jim will be serving it) for her self.  Sure---we will talk Rotary.  Find out how we are going to End Polio Now!!  Perhaps we will learn more of our national Rotary Campaigns or more than likely she can focus on good old district Five O One O.  Make sure not to miss next Tuesday, August 27th, because RJR has no better friend to assist us in maintaing our vibrant club then Sue Foley.   Just make sure to ask her if she is having any fun.

Natural Disasters seem to fill the front pages of the world.  No location, no matter how remote, is immune to the scares left behind from Mother Nature’s wrath;  leaving behind victims whose basic needs are stripped from their legitimate grasp. 

Enter Nancy Dodge, a passionate Ambassador for an emergency response program called Shelter Box.  Nancy provided our program on August 20^th on the Shelter Box solution to emergency response.  It was explained that Rotary International has partnered with Shelter Box USA to ensure that there is a disaster response that is both simple and effective.  To deliver the essentials a family needs to survive in the immediate aftermath of a disaster.

Nancy pointed out that each Shelter Box is tailored to a disaster but typically contains a tent for an extended family, blankets, water storage, and purification equipment, cooking utensils, a stove, a basic tool kit, a children’s activity pack and other vital items.

Ambassador Dodge was very touched with our hat collection of over $200.  If you would like to have further contact;   nhdodge@comcast.net

Those on the board please make some extra time in your schedule on August 27th. District Governor Sue Foley will be our guest speaker on that date and as customary she would like to spend some time with our board following our regular meeting. We will start our meeting at 8:15 and should easily be done by 9:00AM.   Please help me out with a good board attendance.

Kim Colbo reported that Eliud Delgado and Don Rogers sold well over a hundred raffle tickets at Mt. View sports and the Lumen Christi Gun Show August 2-4.  At our last meeting Eliud informed the club that our net proceeds are now above $5,000.  Our raffle ticket sales is or main fund raiser of the year.  Please help out Eliud and Don by assisting at the next gun show.  We need all of our membership pitching in to make our club a success!!

That's right!!!  US Senator Mark Begich has graciously accepted Charlie Michaels invitation to speak to the Good members of Anchorage Russian Jack Rotary on Tuesday August 13th.  If ever you were to invite a friend to Rotary here is a good opportunity to hear first hand how Alaska is being represented in Washington DC.  

End Polio Now!!

Every good story starts out with “Once Upon a Time,” there is a Villain, and of course there is a Hero.  On Tuesday morning the 6^th of August, the members and guests of Russian Jack Rotary were treated to a Rotary Story as how we are going to End Polio  (The Villain) Now.  Presenting was Rotary’s International Hero Ann Lee Hussey.   

As reported, Ann Lee’s fight with Polio started when she was diagnosed with Polio at just 17 months old.  Coincidently the treatment for polio was discovered some three months latter.  Today, Ann’s courage and determination are directly linked to the knowledge that she can save thousands, perhaps millions of children from suffering she has endured from the crippling affects of Polio.  With the aid of modern medicine, treatment, and countless surgeries Ann Lee has developed a life defined not by her aliments but more by her relentless courage to lead Immunization days throughout some of the hardest to serve populations in the world. 

Joining a small Rotary club in Portland Maine in 2002, Ann Lee Hussey immediately became involved.  She has now served above self in India, Egypt, Mali, Niger, Bangladesh and she will return to Nigeria this November.  She reported that the main countries that need to be addressed are Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nigeria.  When asked about the fear of working Immunization Days in countries with political unrest such as Pakistan and Afghanistan her response was simple.  Who else can eradicate Polio?  Polio will not know of Political problems and those that fight it should endeavor to bring peace through good health.

Just a note:  Anne Lee told me her club is also a 20 member club.  She and her husband Michael have held all the regular positions; Community Director, Sargent at Arms, President.  We are all Rotarians and when our fight with Polio is over we all need to look back and be able to state that we contributed to the end of the Nasty disease known as Polio.

Thank you Eliud Delgado. For a fund raiser that was a huge success. According to Eliuds report we netted a Profit of $11,667.91  Well done Russian Jack Rotary!!

The Big sellers of raffle tickets were the following:

Don Rogers $2,920.

Eliud Delgado $800.

Jack Anglin  $680. 

This is the 4^th year of our enlarged scholarship program. I don't remember when we started the Jerry Harrington memorial scholarship, but four years ago, we started awarding two $4000 scholarships to needy, but smart, high school grads. There are now eight in the process. So far, all have stayed in school---except for the young man who suicided a year ago, allegedly over a girl! We are forward-funded with CDs for most of the next two years. After the current raffle ends, I will finish up the next two and start on the third. Never can tell if the economy will allow us to raise 8 grand per year.  

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­Best, Don Rogers

THE ANCHORAGE RUSSIAN JACK

ROTARY CLUB

Jerry Harrinton, a retired Navy recruiter and insurance agency manager, was our founder of the Anchorage Russian Jack rotary Club. Six past presidents of other Rotary clubs were charter members of our club. Our total membership was forty-eight. Ours was the first breakfast club in Alaska. Our charter was issued November of 1983.

Originlly the Anhorage Russian Jack Club met on Monday mornings at 7:00 a.m. for breakfast, in the back room of Denny's Restaurant on DeBarr Road in East Anchorage, From the beginning it was clear that Denny's back room was not big enough for our club meeting. If every member attended the same meeting, we would not have had enough chairs to seat them all. We always had visiting Rotarians, too, who added to the space problem. For our first few years various individuals and committees sought a larger meeting place in East Anchorage, which inludes the Russian Jack area. Of the establishments that served breadkfast, none offered more space than Denny's. The club now meets at the Westmark 7200 West 5th Avenue downtown Anchorage.

Anchorage Russian Jack

Himself