Club Assembly
by Lorine Parks
Wondering what a Club Assembly is? President Russell Skersick made the occasion a chance for members of the Board of Directors to report on what their job is, and what they have done so far, in the first half of his year.
First up was Roger Brossmer, Program Chair, who said the focus this year “has been on us, who we are, what we do,” This being Roger’s second year at bringing us interesting people and projects, he is now asking for suggestions for programs for the rest of the year.
Next at bat was Larry Garces, Humanitarian Chair. He said that proceeds from events like the Poker Night go exclusively to our humanitarian projects. “What I like about it,” Larry said, “is that at each table there is one Rotarian with other guest players. The Rotarian has the chance to tell about our projects and where the money is going, so we can get a larger community involved.” All that, and an exciting evening at the McGrew residence. Everyone is invited to come this year and contribute.
Rich Strayer, Chair of International Service, had several projects to discuss. A new project with the dental clinic at Mulege is in the works with Wayne Wilcox. Diane Davis has been involved with the One Thousand Smiles clinics in Mexico, which focus on children with cleft palate surgery and feature a weekend in a nearby town across the border. See more details in Announcements.
Rich also pointed out that one of our major concerns is the Guatemala Literacy Project. This Club is donating $5,000 this year to bring books and computers to the indigenous people of that country. Rich is the coordinator for the GLP with District 5280, and he and wife Gloria have gone before and are heading south again in February to see this sustainable program administered. Literacy is the way out of poverty, an escape from a low standard of living, and releases girls especially from onerous tasks to become contributors to their family’s betterment. Rich has arranged for a speaker for our club in March, from GLP’s United states headquarters in Cincinnati.
Alex Lopez as President-Elect has had several intensive new training sessions with the District. He is looking for ideas to raise public awareness of what the Rotary Club of Downey has done for the community. For an example, painting of the power boxes in Downey is now sponsored by local service organizations, who cover them with pictures and information. Our Club’s box is on the northwest corner of Paramount and Stewart and Gray, “ a heavily trafficked location,” says Alex. Cost is $1,500 and ours features the 4 Way Test. Drive by and take a look.
Barbara Lamberth as Secretary said her job is to “keep membership advised and informed of Club events.” Our partnering with TLC, True Lasting Connections, with the needy and underserved schoolchildren and their families, could use more volunteers from the club.
Barbara reminded us that the Hubbub is ready to publicize any worthy causes with which members would like the club’s help. Just communicate with lorineparks@verizon.net.
Greg Welch, Membership Chair, mentioned the three new members we have, and invited everyone to keep looking at our Facebook site. Good pictures are often posted there immediately after meetings.
Paul Mathys, the ever-popular “financial chair” stepped forward to prolonged applause. “Bah humbug,” was Paul’s reply. He then reported that the Golf Tournament has raised a record $30,000, and he thanked the long, hard working committee. “This year every number was up, in terms of more golfers, tee signs and sponsors,” Paul said.
“We’re in good health,” Paul said, “finance-wise.”
“When will you play your banjo for us,” John Lacey asked, but Paul discouraged any hope of his giving us a rendition of banjo favorites. “The banjo is in a case that hasn’t been opened for three years, and it takes three to four months to get up to speed,” Paul said. Shouts and murmurs signified that the Club wanted him to play.
President Russell gave Anne Ulstrom’s report, saying plans were underway for us to sponsor the exciting Middle School Carnival of Champions this Spring. “Volunteers are needed at every position,” Russell said.