Peter Gustafson - Deputy Director, See Science Center

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August 21, 2024
 
Nov 20, 2024
Manchester Country Club
7:30am
 
Peter Gustafson
Deputy Director, See Science Center, Manchester NH
 
Peter explains the See Science Center's mission to engage our community in the joyful, active exploration of science and innovation.
 
 
Peter Gustafson - Deputy Director, See Science Center 2024-11-20 05:00:00Z 0
Megan Plaza, founder of The Suitcase Project, at the Bedford Rotary Club on Wednesday August 21, 2024. 2024-08-21 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Bedford Change of Gavel

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Friday June 28, 2024
 
Rotary Club of Bedford Change of Gavel was hosted by incoming President Kevin Boyarsky and our-going President Dave Kuhns.
 
The Rotary Club of Bedford want to thank everyone who attended the changing of the gavel event this past Friday evening. It was a great turnout and beautiful evening, and we hope everyone enjoyed themselves. Once again, thank you to Dave Kuhns for his leadership this past year and congratulations to incoming President Kevin Boyarsky.
 
 
Rotary Club of Bedford Change of Gavel 2024-06-28 04:00:00Z 0
Thomas Raffio 2024-05-01 04:00:00Z 0

Andrea Bilello - Camp Exciting Adventures
 

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April 17, 2024
Manchester Country Club - Bedford, NH
 
Andrea Bilello, Camp Exciting Adventures
 
 
Andrea Beliello will speak at the Bedford Rotary Club on 17 April, 2024. She will speak about Camp Exciting Adventures, a week-long summer camp for children who have a vision impairment...
Andrea Bilello - Camp Exciting Adventures  2024-04-17 04:00:00Z 0

WELCOME to our NEWEST MEMBER - Karen Lascelle

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Karen Lascelle, CPA, CVA, CFE

Karen Lascelle, CPA, CVA, CFE is a Managing Director with John Burk & Associates CPAs, PC.  She is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licensed in New Hampshire as well as a Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA) and Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)...
WELCOME to our NEWEST MEMBER - Karen Lascelle 2024-04-16 04:00:00Z 0
Major Dr. Colin DeVault 2024-04-03 04:00:00Z 0

Miss NH - Dr. Brooke Mills

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March 20, 2024
Manchester Country Club 7:30am
 
Miss NH - Dr. Brooke Mills
 
“I talk through my brain injury story and childhood challenges, how the Miss America opportunity provided me hope and role models during tough times, how everyone can be involved to empower women in the state of NH, my year as Miss New Hampshire and what the year holds for me as a business entrepreneur and new business owner in Bedford.”
Miss NH - Dr. Brooke Mills 2024-03-20 04:00:00Z 0

 Bedford Rotary Club Hosts Corn-hole Fundraiser


 

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The Bedford Rotary Club hosted a fundraising corn-hole tournament at Murphy's Taproom Carriage House on Saturday, February 19. 43 teams -from corn-hole initiates to seasoned ringers- participated.
 
Claiming the tournament's $300 first prize was the team of Payton Adams and Drevin Richard. In second place -and winners of $200- were Bhuc Tu and Eric Gosselin. The third place winners of $100 were Ron Bourgeois and Rob Browne.
 
The money that the Bedford Rotary raises through fundraisers like the Corn-hole tourney goes to scholarships, charitable organizations, and programs that help those less fortunate. Bedford Rotary would like to thank the contributing tournament sponsors: Primary Bank, Goedecke Decorating Center, WZID Radio Group, AutoFair Honda, Haigh-Farr, the Wine'ing Butcher, Edward Jones, Paquette Pools, Morgan Self-Storage, and NH Print & Mail.
 
If you would like to find out more about the Rotary Club of Bedford, you can find us on facebook. Or join us for breakfast on Wednesdays at the Manchester Country Club from 7:30-8:30am. 
 
 Bedford Rotary Club Hosts Corn-hole Fundraiser  Jerry Hanauer 2023-02-23 05:00:00Z 0

Rotary at the Food Bank

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The Bedford Rotary Club held its weekly meeting on January 18 at the New Hampshire Food Bank in Manchester. Shown here are (l. to r.) NH Food Bank Executive Director Eileen Groll Liponis, Bedford Rotary President Crystal Dionne, and Food Bank Chef Training Director Paul Morrison. If you're interested in donating or volunteering for the NH Foodbank, see their website: NHFoodBank.org. If you're interested in joining the club and service work of the Rotary Club of Bedford, please contact us!
Rotary at the Food Bank jer 2023-01-18 05:00:00Z 0
Financial Professional Gives Rotarians Advice William B. Gere 2022-07-06 04:00:00Z 0

Candidates Speak to  Bedford Rotary

Congressional Candidates Speak to Bedford Rotarians
 
Certainly it's an indication of the esteem in which major candidates hold our Club.
 
In 2 consecutive meetings close to election day (Nov. 3), 1st District Congressional Republican candidate Matt Mowers (October 14) and Incumbent Congressman Chris Pappas (October 21) join us for breakfast and speak to our members. A personal note: Matt and Chris are both impressive people.
 
On  September 30, Democratic State Senator Jeanne Dietsch and Bedford State Representative candidate Daniel Dong spoke to our meeting. On October 7, Republican State Senate candidate Denise Ricciardi and several Republican Bedford State Representative candidates spoke at our club meeting.
 
Hope you've been able to take in our always informative weekly speakers.
Candidates Speak to Bedford Rotary jer 2020-10-16 04:00:00Z 0

Goedeckes!

A 3rd generation of the Goedecke family was added to the Rotary Club of Bedford.
 
Our club was originally formed as the West Manchester Rotary Club, and George Goedecke (also founder of Goedecke Decorating) was a founder of the West Manchester Club before it moved to Bedford.
 
Of course Al has been a member of our club since 1973. Now Al's sons, Peter and Herb join us.
 
Welcome Herb and Peter! In the pic, from left to right, Alan, Herb and Peter.
Goedeckes! Jerry Hanauer 2020-09-19 04:00:00Z 0

Director of UNH Enterpreneurship Center Meets Rotarians

 
This article originally appeared in the Bedford Bulletin.
 
Ian Grant, director of the Peter T. Paul Enterpreneurship Center at UNH, spoke to Bedford Rotary at the Manchester Country Club on Feb. 19.
Opened in 2016, the Enterpreneurship Center (EC) is the co-curricular heart of ideas, innovation and enterpreneurship at UNH. The EC is open to any student from any college or major on campus. The EC complements what all students are learning in every classroom on campus.
The EC stimulates mindsets to be better problem solvers. There are summer programs for students with no enterpreneurship inclination.
Director of UNH Enterpreneurship Center Meets Rotarians 2020-03-07 05:00:00Z 0

Bedford Town Council Speaker

 
This article originally appeared in the Bedford Journal on February 21,2020.
 
Bill Duschatko, chairman of the Bedford Town Council spoke to the Bedford Rotary on Feb. 12.
The proposed Bedford Town Budget for 2020 amounts to $4.36 per 1000 evaluation, a very modest increase of $0.22 per $1000 over 2019.
Some of the key features are a $2.3M capital reserve deposit to cover facilities, etc. and a $1.0M redo of Sportsman field with artificial turf, etc. As a point of interest, property tax reductions for low income elderly and veterans account for $550K in exemptions.
The Town of Bedford is fortunate to qualify for AAA Bond rating that only a very few towns in northern New England enjoy.
Town election day is March 10 followed by a budgetary meeting at 7PM March 11 to vote on proposed capital reserves and the town operating budget for 2020.
 
        Submitted by Bill Gere, Bedford Rotary PR
Bedford Town Council Speaker 2020-03-07 05:00:00Z 0

Carrabba's Partner Speaks to Rotary

This article originally appeared in the Bedford Bulletin.
 
Rick Macklin, managing partner at Carrabba's Italian Grill in Bedford, recently spoke at Bedford Rotary. Bedford Carrabba's restaurant, at 2 Upjohn St. off South River Road, is successful largely due to the professionism of Macklin, who has had the reins since 2017. He credits the success to his assembled management team, the restaurant's tried and true business model and its caring staff. Macklin says he takes pride in the cleanliness and friendiliness of the restaurant. Got a special meal occasion in mind> Email Rick at RMacklin@carrabbas.com.
 
Carrabba's Partner Speaks to Rotary 2020-03-07 05:00:00Z 0

Jay Nash Speaker on the 22nd

 
On January 22nd Jay Nash spoke to the club. Jay is the Bedford School Board Chairman.
 
The proposed 2021 FY Bedford School District budget is $78.7M needed to educate 4500 students with a default budget of $76.5M. The proposed budget includes hiring professional social workers to address student issues. In addition to the school budget voters will cast ballots on two warrant articles dealing with school maintenance and improvements and the installation of sprinklers in three schools.
Jay Nash Speaker on the 22nd 2020-02-01 05:00:00Z 0

Water Quality in NH

 
On January 15th Peter Colins spoke to our club about water quality in NH. Peter is the owner of the Manchester Culligan Water Treatment business.
The most common issues in Bedford are well based mineral deposits causing hard water. Theses can include  calcium, magnersium, and high iron content. Visible staining and radon are also issues that can occur. Some areas of Bedford have also had issues with PFOA. These are all treatable conditions.
Water Quality in NH 2020-02-01 05:00:00Z 0

Chief Bryfonski Speaker on Nov 6th

 
Bedford Police Chief John Bryfonski spoke to the club on November 6th. He gave the club the status on police department staffing as well as crime/police concerns in the town and state of NH. He also gave an update on the Route 101 construction which is now supposed to complete in the spring of 2020.
Chief Bryfonski Speaker on Nov 6th 2019-11-19 05:00:00Z 0

Rotary District Governor Visit

 
On December 23rd our Rotary District Governor Nancy Russell visited our club. During the visit she presented a flag with this years Rotary Theme to our club President Alan Heacock
 
Rotary District Governor Visit 2019-10-25 04:00:00Z 0

Paul Harris Recognition

 
On October 23rd Doug Horrocks was recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow and received the Paul Harris pin. From left to right in the picture above are Foundation Chair Bill Gere, Club Secretary Doug Horrocks, and Club President Alan Heacock. The Paul Harris Fellow program recognizes individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International. 
Paul Harris Recognition 2019-10-25 04:00:00Z 0
Rotary Town Clock 2019-10-20 04:00:00Z 0
Regional Idol Scholarship - Get Your Tickets! 2019-10-12 04:00:00Z 0
How to Contact the Rotary Club of Bedford, NH 2019-08-24 04:00:00Z 0

UNH Hockey

 
On 8/21 Head Coach Mike Souza was one of the two speakers that talked to the club about UNH's Ice Hockey Team "The Wildcats"
UNH Hockey 2019-08-21 04:00:00Z 0

Lindt Chocolate Expansion

 
On August 14th Jim Dill spoke the club about the Lindt Chocolate factory  large expansion in Stratham. This factory produces the Lindt truffles and other chocolates for the United States and several other countries. It also produces chocolate for several other brands such as Ciardelli that Lindt owns. Huge, very expensive manufacturing machines are used in the production. For example a machine that produces truffles can turn out 5,000 of them per minute.
Lindt Chocolate Expansion 2019-08-14 04:00:00Z 0

St Anselm Center for Ethics in Business and Governance

 
On August 7th Professor Max Latona from Saint Anselm College spoke to the club about the Ethics Leadership Seminars being held at Saint Anselm. In particular there was a great deal of discussion within the club about NH problems of housing affordability and availsbility.
St Anselm Center for Ethics in Business and Governance 2019-08-07 04:00:00Z 0

New Zealand Environment

 
On July 10th Eric Sabean spoke to the club about the New Zealand Environment. Eric is studying Environmental Science at UNH. In particular he spoke about Native Avian Bio Indicators on Motuihe Island in New Zealand.
New Zealand Environment 2019-07-10 04:00:00Z 0
Music Scholarship Recipient - Bedford H.S. 2019-06-28 04:00:00Z 0

Meghan Lydon Recognized

 
Meghan Lydon who is a Bedford High School teacher and Rotary Interact mentor was recognized for her efforts since the Interact Club was founded at Bedford High School. Meghan and her husband will be leaving to teach in Morocco.
Meghan Lydon Recognized 2019-06-28 04:00:00Z 0
Music Scholarship Recipient - West H.S. 2019-06-28 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary's Ceremonial Mace Leads BHS Graduation Procession

Posted by Jerry Hanauer on Jun 10, 2019
In May of 2017, the Rotary Club of Bedford donated to Bedford High School a ceremonial mace - a symbol of academic excellence at Bedford High School.
 
For the third year - as the BHS Band played Elgar's "Pomp and Circumstance"- the mace was carried by the school Principal leading the procession of graduating seniors. Having 2 granddaughters graduating, I enjoyed the occasion on Saturday, June 8.
 
Here are some pics.
Rotary's Ceremonial Mace Leads BHS Graduation Procession Jerry Hanauer 2019-06-10 04:00:00Z 0

Jay Nash was Our Speaker on May 22nd

 
Jay Nash spoke to the club on May 22nd. Jay is the Chairman of the Bedford School Committee. He spoke about their activities and the recent vote that was not in favor of several school funding requests.
Jay Nash was Our Speaker on May 22nd 2019-06-04 04:00:00Z 0

David Nakka Of TERRAFYTO Speaker on May 15th

 
David Nakka is pictured above
 
On May 15th David Nakka and Bedford club member Sunil Khadka spoke about their company know as TERRAFYTO and its products. Their company is dedicated to making products that are natural, sustainable, and biodegradable. They are currently using Palm tree leaves that are remaining from trees that were used to produce palm oil. The leaves are then hot pressed to create various dishes and bowls. Several packages of their new product were passed around to the audience.
David Nakka Of TERRAFYTO Speaker on May 15th 2019-06-04 04:00:00Z 0

New Horizons Soup Kitchen

Posted on Jun 04, 2019

Image

Volunteers from our Rotary Club, family members, and significant others will be able to help out at the New Horizons Soup Kitchen where they can serve meals to people and families in need. We can help out on the 2nd Friday Night of each month from 4 PM to 6 PM. The address is 199 Manchester St, Manchester, NH, 03103.

If you have not signed up and would like to help please let Charlie Fairman know.

New Horizons Soup Kitchen 2019-06-04 04:00:00Z 0
Lynn Cullity Inducted as New Member on May 8th 2019-05-14 04:00:00Z 0

Business Person of the Year

 
On May 8th our club recognized Aphrodite "Dee Dee" Vasilopoulis of Pizza Bella as our choice for business person of the year.
Business Person of the Year 2019-05-14 04:00:00Z 0

Dave Phillips  was May 8th Speaker

 
Our speaker on May 8th was David Phillips who spoke about the Friends of Aine and the need for child bereavement programs in NH. He spoke about the program they had put in place called "Good Grief".
Dave Phillips was May 8th Speaker 2019-05-14 04:00:00Z 0

Becky Hebert Planning Director

 
On April 3rd Becky Hebert, Planning Director for Bedford, spoke to the club about the Building and Construction efforts that are and will be taking place in our town
Becky Hebert Planning Director 2019-04-09 04:00:00Z 0

Donation to Dana Farber

 
On April 3rd our club donated $1,000 to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Jenn Robichaud's name. Jenn is a Stage 2 cancer survivor who will be running in the Boston Marathon for Dana Farber
Donation to Dana Farber 2019-04-09 04:00:00Z 0
Planning Your Own Funeral 2019-04-09 04:00:00Z 0

School Property Tax Disparities

 
On February 27th John Tobin and Doug Hall spoke to us about the Property Tax to school funding disparities in our state. Following the NH Supreme Court's Claremont rulings state aid was changed starting in the 1999/2000 school year. Despite efforts in the ensuing years there has been very little change in the disparities in funding per student or equalized tax rates compared to a median town. There are several school funding bills under consideration at this time. Our club would need further inputs to understand how these bills address the problem.
School Property Tax Disparities 2019-03-04 05:00:00Z 0

Venu Rao District Governor Visit on Sept 5th

 
Venu Rao, Rotary District Governor, spoke at our club meeting on September 5, 2018. Venu talked about the upcoming District Conference and the Foundation. He spoke about his clubs effort to provide clean water at a site in India. The club put together $25K to provide clean water at site in India. A Rotary club in India also put together $25K. Then with matching District funds and Rotary International Foundation funds they ended up with more than $170k. As a result they were able to provide clean water sites at multiple
locations.
Venu Rao District Governor Visit on Sept 5th 2018-09-11 04:00:00Z 0

July 17 Board Minutes

MINUTES OF THE MEETING
OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF
ROTARY CLUB OF BEDFORD, NH
 
A meeting of the Board of Directors of the Rotary Club of Bedford, N.H., was held on Tuesday, July 17th, 2018 at the New Hope Christian Fellowship at 292 Route 101
 
In attendance: Bob MacPherson, Mike Constance, Leo Dionne, Ed Bordeleau, Melinde Byrne, Bob Kruger, Bill Gere, Dave Kuhns, Guy Chapdelaine and Doug Horrocks.  
 
Secretary   We ended June with 43 members, having lost Allard, Fleming & Lavoie and gained Boyarsky and Jones.  Attendance was reported as 74.3% for May and 70.0% for June but subsequent make-up submissions raise the numbers to 74.8% and 71.2%. 
 
Treasurer   The operations account P&L was $2,381 positive for FY 2017-18 and the donations account was positive by $1,317.   Both numbers unaudited.
 
Race   We have approval for parking for 300 cars and plan a shuttle from Memorial School.  We will have 2 police officers.
 
Idol   Will be January 19th.  Ed has a contract with the same terms as last year—a donation of $2,000.
 
Senior lunch     Will be December 12th.
 
Scholarship   Bob MacPherson asked that someone else be added to the committee to eventually replace him.
 
The meeting adjourned at 6:12!!!
 
 
A supplemental board meeting was held after the weekly meeting on 7/11/18,
Members in attendance:  Leo Dionne, Charlie Fairman, Chris Ware, Bob McPherson, Ed Bordeleau, Alan Heacock, Mike Constance, Melinde Byrne, Guy Chapdelaine  
An expenditure of $600 for the purchase of reusable "sandwich type" signs to be used at Rotary Club of Bedford events was unanimously approved. Motion made by Charles Fairman and seconded by Alan Heacock.
July 17 Board Minutes 2018-08-06 04:00:00Z 0

Sadie MacIver Scholarship Winner

 
On June 20th Sadie MacIver joined us at our club meeting. Sadie is our Rotary Scholarship winner this year. In addition, Sadie is one of the founding members of the Bedford High School Interact Club. Sadie has played a number of key roles in the Interact Club management and operation.
Sadie MacIver Scholarship Winner 2018-07-17 04:00:00Z 0

Club Officer/ Director Transition Night

 
June 22, 2018 Transition Night was held at the Maple Ridge Estates. Shown in the picture are outgoing Club President Bob MacPherson and Incoming Club President Leo Dionne.
Club Officer/ Director Transition Night 2018-07-17 04:00:00Z 0
Tim Jones Welcomed as New Member on June 13th 2018-07-17 04:00:00Z 0

June 6th at Camp Allen

On June 6th our club met at Camp Allen for our regular meeting. The Club had the opportunity to meet the camp counselors that hailed from many different countries.
June 6th at Camp Allen 2018-07-17 04:00:00Z 0

Peter Ramsey was June 13th Speaker

 
On June 13th Peter Ramsey, President and cEO of the Palace Theater, was our speaker. He spoke about the changes in the Theater over the years and how it has flourished in recent years.
Peter Ramsey was June 13th Speaker 2018-07-17 04:00:00Z 0

Felony Drug Courts of NH

 
On July 11th the Honorable Tina Nadeau who is Chief Justice of NH's Superior Courts spoke to the club about the new Felony Drug Courts in NH. This is a new concept that does not simply rely on the historical approach of escalating periods of incarceration as an offender appears in court. Instead a special committee meets to develop a plan for the offender that incorporates treatment, monitoring, and the help that person needs for possible return to society.
Felony Drug Courts of NH 2018-07-16 04:00:00Z 0

Cammie Ferreras Speaker on May 9th

Cammie Ferreras, regional Manager of Berkshire Hathaway Verani, spoke to the Club on May 9th. She spoke about the current housing market and myths and misconceptions about real estate sales/ purchases.
Cammie Ferreras Speaker on May 9th 2018-05-15 04:00:00Z 0

Tom Raffio CEO of Northeast Delta Denta

On May 2nd Tom Raffio, CEO of Northeast Delta Dental spoke to the club. He spoke about a book he co-authored titled 'Mindfulness: A Better Me; A Better You; A Better World.' The book combines the science and the practical aspects of being mindful
Tom Raffio CEO of Northeast Delta Denta 2018-05-09 04:00:00Z 0
Harry Koslowski of WBNH Spoke on May 2nd 2018-05-09 04:00:00Z 0

Rotarian of the Month - Leo Dionne

Meet Leo R. Dionne our President Elect! Leo has been in the Bedford Rotary since 2014, and has held a position as Club Secretary in 2015 and 2016. Leo resides in Bedford with his wife Katherine, daughter Maya and English bulldog named Spike. Leo grew up in Manchester and has been a resident of Bedford since 2013.  He graduated from University of New Hampshire 2003 BA Communications and currently works as an Insurance Agent with Bankers Life specializing in Retirement Income, Health Expenses, Extended Care and Final Expenses/Survivor’s Income. Leo helps people protect assets that they have spent a lifetime accumulating from unexpected health or financial situations. Outside of work and Rotary responsibilities, Leo dedicates his time as CYO Basketball coach, parishioner at Saint Elizabeth Seton Parish and a Knights of Columbus Brother. He is an avid golfer, wine enthusiast, enjoys watching sports and his favorite TV show is Survivor. 
 
Leo, Thank you for all that you do for the Rotary Club and our community, we are lucky to have you as our upcoming president.”
Rotarian of the Month - Leo Dionne 2018-05-09 04:00:00Z 0

April 17th Board Minutes

MINUTES OF THE MEETING
OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF
ROTARY CLUB OF BEDFORD, NH
 
A meeting of the Board of Directors of the Rotary Club of Bedford, N.H., was held on Tuesday, April 17th, 2018 at the New Hope Christian Fellowship at 292 Route 101
 
In attendance: Bob MacPherson, Ron Pingel, Walter Gallo, Jerry Hanauer, Chris Ware, Bob Kruger, Mike Constance, Bill Gere, Leo Dionne, Alan Heacock, Ed Bordeleau and Doug Horrocks.  
 
Secretary   March attendance was reported at 58.6% (later revised to 59.4% with a Carl Jackson make-up).  With the addition of Jen Pinard we have 44 members.
 
Treasurer   Both accounts are in good shape since we are getting some race sponsor money in.  The donations account has $20K.  From it we still need to pay $1,500 Idol scholarships, $2,000 St A’s, $7,000 West & BHS scholarships, $2,400 Camp Allen—total $12,900.
 
Transition night   Planned for June 24 at Maple Ridge.  Food will be our own Pasta Night.
 
Member-of-the-month   Alla will profile Leo on our Facebook page.  We agreed that the board will choose subsequent members to feature.  Hopefully we can also get it on our web site and/or as an email to members.
 
Social   The spring Mama Mia social is April 20th with 59 attendees.  Transition night will also be a social and then we will plan a fall event after the race and Taste of Italy.
 
Community   Walter nominated and we agreed on a business person of the year.  Alan suggested a service day at the Palace Theater.
 
Donations   We discussed being a scholarship sponsor for the Palace Theater’s summer drama camp.  Alan will get more details.  We decided NOT to contribute to Pure Water for the World (reversal of a February vote) since we have already supported two other clean water projects.
 
Misc.   April 24th will be a club assembly on Taste of Italy.  Bill will also present his member questionnaire.  May 16th we will recognize the Interact seniors and have a hot breakfast.  We discussed storage and agreed to keep some things at Bank of New Hampshire, move others from Milford to Camp Allen. 
 
The meeting adjourned at about 7:00
 
Note: There are no March meeting minutes since there wasn’t a quorum
April 17th Board Minutes 2018-04-30 04:00:00Z 0

Melinde Byrne Spoke to Club on April 11th

 
On April 11th Melinde Byrne, club member spoke about the use of DNA as part of genealogy. She spoke about several cases that used DNA genetic analysis, historical records, interviews to trace a persons family lineage. One of the cases was quite complex.
Melinde Byrne Spoke to Club on April 11th 2018-04-30 04:00:00Z 0

Matt Pitaro was Speaker on Apr 18th

 
On April 18th Matt Pitaro, club member, spoke about his career with Comcast Business and the community service initiatives taking place at Comcast.
Matt Pitaro was Speaker on Apr 18th 2018-04-30 04:00:00Z 0

Lisa Beaudoin Speaker on April 4th

 
Lisa Beaudoin spoke to the club about the organization known as ABLENH. ABLENH is a grassroots organization advocating for individuals with disabilities, helping them to live the American dream instead of a life of seclusion spending their life on a couch.
Lisa Beaudoin Speaker on April 4th 2018-04-30 04:00:00Z 0
Jennifer Pinard Inducted as New Member on March 28th 2018-04-29 04:00:00Z 0

Kelly Cohen Speaks on March 28th

 
On March 28th Kelly Roosa Cohen, president and owner of Cohen Closing & Title LLC spoke about her business. They add real value and peace of mind to real estate transactions delivering accurate and expedient documentation consistent with all aspects of the law. She stressed that the business works with the buyer, the seller, and the lender for a smooth, no surprises. understandable closing.
Kelly Cohen Speaks on March 28th 2018-04-29 04:00:00Z 0
Rebecca Hebert Speaker on January 31st 2018-02-16 05:00:00Z 0

Lisa Lavoi Welcomed as New Member on Jan 10th

Lisa Lavoi was inducted as a new member on January 10th. Shown in the picture from left to right are Chris Ware (Lisa's sponsor), Lisa Lavoi (new member), and Club President Bob MacPherson
 
Lisa Lavoi Welcomed as New Member on Jan 10th 2018-01-21 05:00:00Z 0

Jan 3 Meeting at Warming Hut

On January 3 our club met at the Bedford Warming Hut at Legacy Park. The Bedford Ski Club made a presentation to the club. Shown in the picture below from left to right are: Anders Vikstrom (Coach at Bedford High School), Nancy Goedecke, and Peter Goedecke (Coach at Manchester High School)
 
 
 
Jan 3 Meeting at Warming Hut 2018-01-10 05:00:00Z 0

December 20th Board Meeting Minutes

Revised Dec 23
 
A meeting of the Board of Directors of the Rotary Club of Bedford, N.H., was held on Wednesday, December 20th, 2017 at the Manchester Country Club
 
In attendance: Bob MacPherson, Charlie Fairman, Ron Pingel, Alan Heacock, Bill Gere, Walter Gallo, Leo Dionne, Melinde Byrne, Ed Bordeleau and Doug Horrocks.  
 
The board approved a $1,000 contribution to the Kenya Safe Water Project, $1,000 for Veterans Count and $250 for Prostate Cancer Research. 
 
A contribution to New Horizons was tabled until we see how much we make in the Idol contest and Shelter Box was tabled until Ron can clear up whether a contribution has been made this fiscal year.
December 20th Board Meeting Minutes 2018-01-02 05:00:00Z 0
Fred Manheck welcomed as New Member on Dec 13th 2017-12-26 05:00:00Z 0

Kenyan Water Project on Dec. 13th

On December 13th Ken Puzey from the Burlington, Vt. Rotary Club told us about a clean water project in Kenya that they were putting together. The particular village in Kenya could not even drill wells due to the amount of water pollution in the area. He showed us a novel, low cost device that uses solar power to boil water and thereby purify it for use. They are looking for contributions from other Rotary clubs to make the project happen.
 
Kenyan Water Project on Dec. 13th 2017-12-26 05:00:00Z 0

Evening Meeting at Murphy's Tap Room on Nov. 15

Our club held an evening meeting at Murphy's Taproom in Bedford on November 15th. New Hampshire House representatives Keith Murphy (shown below) and Dave Danielson spoke to the club about the State Legislature.
 
Evening Meeting at Murphy's Tap Room on Nov. 15 2017-12-05 05:00:00Z 0
Land Rover Speaker on Nov. 29th 2017-12-05 05:00:00Z 0

Bill Fleming Inducted on Nov. 29th

Bill Fleming was inducted. as a new member on November 29th.  Bill is pictured along with our Club President Bob MacPherson below.
 
 
 
Bill Fleming Inducted on Nov. 29th 2017-12-05 05:00:00Z 0

Primary Bank Speakers on November 1st

On November 1st Primary Bank Co-founder Bill Greiner and President Bill Stone spoke at our club meeting. Primary Bank was the first bank to open in New Hampshire in 7 years and the first commercial bank to open in the country since 2008.
 
 
 
Primary Bank Speakers on November 1st 2017-11-28 05:00:00Z 0

Tom Champagne Welcomed as New Member

On November 1st Tom Champagne was inducted as a new member to our club. The picture below shows club president Bob MacPherson, new member Tom Champagne, and Tom's sponsor Guy Chapdelaine.
 
Tom Champagne Welcomed as New Member 2017-11-28 05:00:00Z 0

October 17th Board Minutes

 MINUTES OF THE MEETING
OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF
ROTARY CLUB OF BEDFORD, NH
 
A meeting of the Board of Directors of the Rotary Club of Bedford, N.H., was held on Tuesday, October 17th, 2017 at the New Hope Christian Fellowship at 292 Route 101
 
In attendance: Bob MacPherson, Charlie Fairman, Ron Pingel, Jerry Hanauer, Alan Heacock, Bill Gere, Larry White, Walter Gallo and Doug Horrocks.
 
Rick Blais from Queen City Rotary told us about a project they are doing in Ecuador with MCC, a local Rotary club and the Peace Corps to bring clean water to a small village.  The total cost to build a reservoir, pipe water to the village and filter it is $30,000.  They are looking for $1,000 each from 7 local clubs to finish their funding.  We agreed to provide $1,000 to be paid in April or May.
 
Secretary 
The minutes from the September meeting were approved.  Membership was 39 with Mike Swinford resigning in September.  Attendance was 69.6% for the month.
 
Treasurer
Both accounts are OK.  We are starting to get some Idol advertising checks.
 
Idol Contest
Jerry will pass out assignments tomorrow for renewal ads and new prospects.  He will also try to publish an article before the show.
 
Publicity
Bill has done a good job of getting speaker pictures and information in the papers.
 
Social
38 members and spouses are committed to the fall social so far
 
Membership
Charlie to talk to Bill Fleming, Fred Manheck and Tom Champagne tomorrow.  Charlie or Melinde will follow up with prospect Melanie Vermette.  We agreed to just reinstate Sunil if he wishes without going through a new-member process.
 
Contributions
We agreed to give $200 to Christiane Rothwangl’s team in the Breast Cancer walk.
 
Miscellaneous
Business cards are moving forward. 
Bell ringing starts soon.  This is our 48th year!
Bob is still pursuing the possibility of an evening meeting at Murphy’s
We need new flyer inserts.  We agreed to buy 750 sets for $801.38
 
 
The meeting adjourned at 6:55
 
OCTOBER 25, 2017
 
A brief board meeting was held after the regular meeting. 
 
In attendance: Bob MacPherson, Charlie Fairman, Leo Dionne, Mike Constance, Ron Pingel, Melinde Byrne and Doug Horrocks.
 
We approved a $750 donation to Challenger Sports
October 17th Board Minutes 2017-11-04 04:00:00Z 0

Donation to NH Food Bank

 
On October 28th our club President Robert MacPherson presented a donation of $1500 to Eileen Liponis for the NH Food Bank
Donation to NH Food Bank 2017-11-01 04:00:00Z 0
Arnold Garron Speaker on October 28th 2017-11-01 04:00:00Z 0

Board Minutes from September 19th Meeting

 MINUTES OF THE MEETING
OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF
ROTARY CLUB OF BEDFORD, NH
 
A meeting of the Board of Directors of the Rotary Club of Bedford, N.H., was held on Tuesday, September 19th, 2017 at the New Hope Christian Fellowship at 292 Route 101
 
In attendance: Bob MacPherson, Charlie Fairman, Leo Dionne,  Ed Bordeleau, Mike Constance, Ron Pingel, Guy Chapdelaine, Jerry Hanauer, Walter Gallo and Doug Horrocks.
 
Secretary 
The minutes from the August meeting were approved.  Membership was 40 with Aaron joining in August.  Michael Swinford has resigned in September due to a conflict with his teaching schedule.  Attendance for the month of July was 70.0%.
 
Treasurer
Both accounts are OK, though not flush
 
Fundraising
  • Charlie submitted reports from the Road Race Committee which was approved by an 8-0 vote and from the pasta Night committee which was approved by a 7-1 vote.  Copies of both will be attached to the distribution of the minutes.
  • Charlie suggested a framework for “Ancillary” members who would support our service goals but need only attend 8 meetings per year.  There was some concern in the discussion and the idea was tabled.
 
Idol Contest
Ed has the tickets and 50 DVD’s about the evening. A committee to work on program ads met this morning and is moving forward.
 
Old Towne Day—volunteers are needed and will be solicited at tomorrow’s club assembly
 
Donations—Are on hold given the low account balance
 
There was some discussion on trying to make John Wood and Honorary member.  Bob will investigate.
 
There was discussion on having an evening meeting in November with mixed support.  Will be discussed tomorrow.
 
The Fall Social Is October 27th.  Doug will send a general announcement
 
Alan will do proofs of business cards as when he gets back.
 
The meeting adjourned at 7:15
 
 
 
SEPTEMBER 20, 2017
 
A brief board meeting was held after the Club Assembly. 
 
In attendance: Bob MacPherson, Charlie Fairman, Leo Dionne, Mike Constance, Ron Pingel, Jerry Hanauer, Walter Gallo and Doug Horrocks.
 
We approved a $1500 donation to the NH Food Bank and $500 for the McKelvie Move-A-Thon
 
 
 
Board Minutes from September 19th Meeting 2017-10-06 04:00:00Z 0

Northern Pass Alternative

On September 27th Shannon from the National Grid spoke to us about a Northern Pass Alternative. Power will come from a wind farm in Canada and be brought to the National Grid in Massachusetts using existing towers with cable replacements. This effort will be paid for by the Massachusetts taxpayers but will benefit all of us. The increased power on the grid should reduce all our electric costs.
 
Northern Pass Alternative 2017-10-06 04:00:00Z 0
Seniors Helping Seniors Presentation on August 29th 2017-08-29 04:00:00Z 0
Workforce Accelerator Presenter on August 9th 2017-08-29 04:00:00Z 0
Aaron Tolson Joins Rotary on August 9th 2017-08-29 04:00:00Z 0
Laura Decoster Spoke on July 26th 2017-08-06 04:00:00Z 0

Bedford Police Chief was the Speaker on June 28th

On June 28th the Bedford Police Chief, John Bryfonski, spoke to our club.  He told us about the police force staffing, the great progress against the various crime rates, and the ongoing serious concern about the substance abuse here in NH.
 
Bedford Police Chief was the Speaker on June 28th 2017-07-11 04:00:00Z 0
Scholarship Winner from Manchester West High School 2017-06-24 04:00:00Z 0

Bedford Food Bank

On June 14th George Reese spoke to the club about the Bedford Food Bank. George is the current Director. He told us about the need in Bedford and asked if any of our members would consider joining the Board.
 
Bedford Food Bank 2017-06-24 04:00:00Z 0
Scholarship Winner from Bedford High School 2017-06-24 04:00:00Z 0
Alla Savitskaya Joins Rotary 2017-05-29 04:00:00Z 0

Bedford High School Processional Mace

On April 19th the club saw a mace that our club had made for presentation to the Bedford High School for use in processions such as graduations.
 
Bedford High School Processional Mace 2017-05-16 04:00:00Z 0

Concord Coalition Speaker on May 10, 2017

Chase Hagaman of the Concord Coalition spoke to the club on May 10, 2017. He talked about the need for voters and policymakers to look out for the nations fiscal future.
Concord Coalition Speaker on May 10, 2017 2017-05-16 04:00:00Z 0
Fisher Cats Speaker on April 19 2017-05-16 04:00:00Z 0

Lori Radke was Speaker on March 22nd

Our speaker on March 22nd was Lori Radke who is the Bedford Town Clerk.. She spoke about the voting system in Bedford. In particular she spent some time talking about a recent test of an electronic registration system.
 
Lori Radke was Speaker on March 22nd 2017-04-03 04:00:00Z 0
Eric Burtchell was Speaker on March 29th 2017-04-03 04:00:00Z 0
Nick Vailis Speaker on March 1st 2017-03-08 05:00:00Z 0

Kathy DesRoches Speaker on Feb. 22nd

 
Kathy DesRoches was our speaker on February 22nd. Kathy is the Program Director for the MS in Leadership, Senior Lecturer. She spoke about the role that Granite State has in the NH university system.
Kathy DesRoches Speaker on Feb. 22nd 2017-02-25 05:00:00Z 0
Chip McGee Speaker on Feb 15th 2017-02-24 05:00:00Z 0

2017 Regional Idol Show Photos

Posted by Jerry Hanauer

Photos of Saturday's GREAT IDOL SHOW are now posted on the Bedford Rotary Clubrunner website.

 

Here's a link to the photos

 

If the link doesn't work for you, go to clubrunner.ca/bedford and scroll down on the homepage until you see the photo albums listing on the right side. Click on the album -- 2017 Idol Show is first listed

 

For best viewing, choose the slideshow option.

 

2017 Regional Idol Show Photos Jerry Hanauer 2017-01-24 05:00:00Z 0
Dr Matthew Rysewski on Nov 30 2016-12-14 05:00:00Z 0

Santa Fund Luncheon

 
November 21. 2016 11:22PM

Annual luncheon's auctions kick-start Santa Fund for the Salvation Army

 
Salvation Army Capt. Armida Harper recites the Pledge of Allegiance at the 2016 Santa Fund Luncheon at the Radisson in Manchester on Monday. (DAVID LANE/UNION LEADER)
 
MANCHESTER — Business and civic leaders gathered Monday to launch this year’s drive for the Union Leader Santa Fund for the Salvation Army.

Some 350 people — including Gov. Maggie Hassan, Mayor Ted Gatsas and the new leaders of the Manchester Salvation Army — participated in the annual kickoff luncheon.

“We’ve all heard it takes a village to raise a child; I’ve never seen a village like Manchester,” said Armida Harper, a Salvation Army major who took over leadership of the Manchester corps earlier this year with her husband. “We feel so supported and loved.”

Manchester Salvation Army programs include the Kids Cafe meal-and-after-school program, summer camps, food baskets, winter clothing and — of course — a Toy Shop that provided a Christmas gift and Christmas meals for more than 3,000 children last year.

“I am grateful to the Salvation Army and the Union Leader for bringing us together at the onset of the holiday season,” Hassan said at the luncheon at the Radisson Hotel.

“It truly exemplifies our tradition in the Granite State, that all-hands-on-deck support,” she said.

Auctions on Monday generated $5,700 for the Santa Fund.

In a silent auction, luncheon guests bid on 38 gift baskets, which were donated by area merchants.

“It’s great to give back to the community we live in,” said Jim Martin of AmeriGas, who bid $50 for a coffee gift basket he will share with his wife.

And in a not-so-silent auction, Gatsas auctioned off two sets of four Red Sox tickets for $400 apiece.

Gatsas said he wants to push the cumulative donations for the Santa Fund, which is in its 57th year, past $8 million.

To do so, the Santa Fund will have to raise some $300,000 this season.

“It’s a challenge,” Gatsas said.

The Santa Fund raises most of its funds through donations from readers of the New Hampshire Union Leader and Sunday News. The newspapers run articles about families who receive help from the Santa Fund. Donors are listed in the newspaper.

“I read every name, whether it’s anonymous, whether it’s in memory of someone, whether you just want to pay it forward,” said WZID radio personality Marga Bessette, who was the master of ceremonies.

Earlier in the day in Concord, Hassan recognized the red kettle drive, which started last week across the state.

At the Manchester event, Harper singled out two organizations for their dedication to the red kettle effort.

Merchants Automotive Group works a kettle on Fridays and Saturdays all season.

Last year, its efforts raised $22,948. Bedford Rotary, which is in its 47th year of bell-ringing, staffs the Harvest Market kettle all season; last year it raised $9,182.
 
 
 
Santa Fund Luncheon 2016-11-22 05:00:00Z 0

Girls at Work

 
On November 2nd Deana Stahlheber presented the Girls at Work program to our club. Girls at Work is a program to empower girls and women
Girls at Work 2016-11-22 05:00:00Z 0

Food Bank

 
On November 2nd Charles Fairman, Bedford Rotary Club President presented a check to Nancy Mellitt of the NH Food Bank
Food Bank 2016-11-22 05:00:00Z 0
Keith Chevalier Speaker on Oct 12th 2016-10-29 04:00:00Z 0
New Bedford Veterinary Medical Center 2016-10-11 04:00:00Z 0

Bedford Little League

On September 28th The Bedford Little League Coaches and Team spoke to the club about their experiences in this years competition.
 
Bedford Little League 2016-10-11 04:00:00Z 0
Bedford Town Manager Speaks on Sept 21st 2016-09-25 04:00:00Z 0

Fire on the Mountain Chili Fest

Bill, Beverly, Christine, and James Gere served Bill's Trophy Homemade Chili at the Fire on the Mountain (Pats Peak) Chili Festival on Sunday August 21st. 45 Chili makers were there. Our Rotary Club was one of 5 Rotary Clubs serving chili. The other Chili makers were restaurants and amateurs. About 1500 people attended. What a blast!
 
Fire on the Mountain Chili Fest 2016-09-11 04:00:00Z 0
Ted Gatsas Speaker on August 31st 2016-09-11 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary District Governor Dennis McMann

Rotary District Governor Dennis McMann and his wife Donna met with our Board on Tuesday evening, September 6th. Dennis spoke to our club at our morning meeting on September 7th.
 
Rotary District Governor Dennis McMann 2016-09-11 04:00:00Z 0

Chief Meredith Lund as Speaker on 24 August 2016

Our speaker on August 24th was Chief Meredith Lund of the New Ipswich, NH Fire Department and NH Fire Academy. Meredith spoke about traveling to and fighting fires at various locations around the United States.
 
Chief Meredith Lund as Speaker on 24 August 2016 2016-08-28 04:00:00Z 0

Rich Ashooh Speaker on Aug 10, 2016
 

 
Rich Ashooh spoke to our club on Aug 10, 2016.  He is a candidate for Congress and told us about why he was running for Congress and some of the issues that were most important to him
 
Rich Ashooh Speaker on Aug 10, 2016   2016-08-21 04:00:00Z 0

Change Direction NH (Mental Illness)

On July 27th Justice Broderick spoke about the Change Direction Initiative. The Change Direction Initiative is a collection of concerned citizens, nonprofit leaders, and leaders from the private sector who have come together to create a new story in America about mental health, mental illness, and wellness. This initiative was inspired by the discussion at the White House National Conference on Mental Health in 2013, which came on the heels of the Newtown, Conn. tragedy.
Change Direction NH (Mental Illness) 2016-08-03 04:00:00Z 0

July 6th Speaker

Our speaker on July 6th was Joe Constance who spoke about Israel
July 6th Speaker 2016-07-13 04:00:00Z 0
Substance Abuse Disorders 2016-06-07 04:00:00Z 0
Gini Lupi was speaker on May 4 2016-05-09 04:00:00Z 0

Bedford High School Senior Projects

On April 27th Emily Sabean introduced and supported her friend Kate Shooshan who talked about her Senior Project to raise money to support efforts to treat a little known disease known as Amyloidosis. She lost her dad to this familial type disease. See the story about Kates efforts in the following Story. Her goal was to raise $1,000 and she has actually raised $19,000 to date. The following two pictures are of Emily Sabean and Kate Shoshan.
 
 
 
 
Bedford High School Senior Projects 2016-05-04 04:00:00Z 0

Bedford Teens Fight Against Amyloidosis

Bedford Bulletin
 
March 21, 2016 10:27 PM
 
Kate Shooshan, 17, has focused her senior project on raising awareness of amyloidosis. (Eli Okun)
 
Bedford teen’s fight against amyloidosis is personal
By ELI OKUN
Union Leader Correspondent
 
BEDFORD - When Kate Shooshan was growing up, she adored her father, a Harvard Law School graduate who started his own firm, coached an Olympic Development Program soccer team and was an active, fun parent.
 
Then he got sick. “I basically watched how he went from playing soccer with me to sitting in a chair,” Kate Shooshan said, “and then basically a year later I watched him not even being able to move from his bed.
 
”Harry “Chip” Shooshan, an involved and well-known figure in Bedford, died of familial amyloidosis in July 2009, at age 62. Kate was 11 at the time. She coped with the loss, she said, thanks to the support of her friends and family and the example of strength that her mother set.
 
She’s now a senior at Bedford High School, with designs to study criminal justice and political science at the University of New Hampshire or University of South Carolina and go into politics or the FBI. And for her senior project, she’s raising awareness of the disease that killed her father and the money to fight it.
 
“In order for me to raise as much money as I want to raise, I needed to go public,” Shooshan said. “It was difficult, but I also have enjoyed the process.
 
”Amyloidosis is a disorder in which a protein folds abnormally. Harry Shooshan’s type of the disease was hereditary, originating in the liver and targeting other organs. There is no cure, and in his case, treatment started too late to stave off the disease’s lethality.
 
Shooshan, 17, is seeking to educate people in her community and beyond about the disease. Some doctors don’t know it exists, she said: Her father lost his voice and had symptoms like tingling feet, but he went undiagnosed for a while, a medical mystery to many.
 
In honor of her father, who loved to run, she is also running in the Bedford 5K road race in May, and seeking to raise money for amyloidosis research through a related GoFundMe campaign. She’s already blown past her initial $1,000 goal, reaching $4,705 as of Monday.
 
John Berk, the doctor at Boston Medical Center’s Amyloidosis Center who treated Shooshan, said Shooshan’s particular type of the disease is actually now one of the hottest areas of research, including some methods that use RNA interference.
 
Most prevalent in Portugal and affecting about 10,000 to 15,000 people worldwide, this type of amyloidosis has sky-high costs for research and treatment: A recent drug made available in Europe was selling for $200,000 a year, Berk said.
 
With government grant funding dropping off significantly in recent years, “we rely a lot on the generous fundraising of ordinary people, and it has a huge impact on our capacities to pursue fruitful findings in the lab,” Berk said. “And so her efforts are going to have a palpable impact on our process to further understand the disease.
 
”Meanwhile, Shooshan is left to wonder — though she tries not to worry much — whether she’ll inherit the gene for amyloidosis, which she has a 50 percent chance of receiving and will get tested for in her late 20s. One of her two older half-sisters has it, though there’s still a 50 percent chance the protein will never unfold irregularly. The disease starts affecting people in late middle age.
 
Telling her story through her senior project has allowed her to connect with her community and inform people about amyloidosis, Shooshan said. She’s also learned much more about the disease and efforts to fight it — and about how best to raise awareness and funds for a cause.
 
“People have said that listening to my story is what motivates them to donate, motivates them to learn about amyloidosis,” she said.
 
Bedford Teens Fight Against Amyloidosis 2016-05-04 04:00:00Z 0
The Rotary Foundation 2016-04-22 04:00:00Z 0
Kris McCracken as speaker on March 30, 2016 2016-04-03 04:00:00Z 0
New Member Inducted 2016-03-15 04:00:00Z 0
Gordon J. Humphrey of Behalf of John Kasich 2016-02-05 05:00:00Z 0
New Rotary Member Nancy Walsh 2016-02-05 05:00:00Z 0
Ovide LaMontagne for Carly Fiorina 2016-02-05 05:00:00Z 0
Mike Skelton Speaks on December 16th 2016-01-01 05:00:00Z 0
Two New Member Welcomed on December 16th 2016-01-01 05:00:00Z 0
Jim Dill Speaks on December 23rd 2016-01-01 05:00:00Z 0

Chief Justice John Broderick

Chief Justice John Broderick spoke to the club on November 18th about the No Labels organization. No Labels is an American political organization, composed of Republicans, Democrats, and Independents, whose mission is to "usher in a new era of focused problem solving in American Politics".
 
Chief Justice John Broderick 2015-11-20 05:00:00Z 0
Interact Club at New Horizons Soup Kitchen 2015-11-16 05:00:00Z 0

Speakers on 11/11/15

Ed Stockel, GM of IRA Lexus, spoke for a few minutes followed by Colonel Geoffrey Gallo who spoke about Veterans Day
 
 
Speakers on 11/11/15 2015-11-15 05:00:00Z 0

Isaac Lacount New Member

Our Club President Melinde Byre inducts our newest club member Isaac Lacount on October 28th.
 
Isaac Lacount New Member 2015-11-07 05:00:00Z 0

NH FBI

Scott O'Donnell spoke to our club about his history with the FBI and the FBI activities in NH on November 4th
 
NH FBI 2015-11-07 05:00:00Z 0

NH Food Bank

Our Club President Melinde Byrne presents a check to Lisa Dean of the NH Food Bank on October 28th
 
NH Food Bank 2015-11-07 05:00:00Z 0

Peter Ramsey

Peter Ramsey spoke to our club about the Palace Theater on October 28th
 
Peter Ramsey 2015-11-07 05:00:00Z 0

Bedford Little League

Head Coach Kevin Lavigne discusses the great performance of Bedford's Little League Team on 21 October.
 
 
Several of the Little League players told about their experiences. Picture below are Head Coach Kevin Lavigne, Ryan Juliano, TJ Crowley, Kyle Lavigne, TJ O'Connell, Adam Roy, Coach Todd O'Connell, and Michelle Juliano
 
Bedford Little League 2015-11-07 05:00:00Z 0

World Polio Day on Saturday October 24th

World Polio Day: Health officials laud polio eradication achievements, point to disease’s endgame
 
 

Time magazine science and technology editor Jeffery Kluger (left) talks with James Alexander, senior medical epidemiologist for the CDC as part of World Polio Day Friday night.

Photo Credit: Alyce Henson

 

After a year of shrinking polio cases worldwide, the crippling disease is now on the cusp of being eradicated, said top health officials at Rotary's second annual World Polio Day event on 24 October.

At a special Livestream program -- World Polio Day: Make History Today -- Rotary leaders joined global health experts and celebrity singers to hail the progress of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative. After nearly 30 years, the GPEI, which includes Rotary, the World Health Organization, UNICEF, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is on the brink of ending polio by 2018, making it the second infectious disease to be eradicated.

"A world without polio is within our grasp more than at any point in the past," said Tom Frieden, director of the CDC, during a video message to the audience. "The poliovirus continues to lose ground. Next month we will mark two years since the last case of wild poliovirus type 3, giving every appearance of eradication, and leaving only type 1 in the world."

The total number of global cases to date is 247, compared with 298 for the same period last year. Outside Pakistan, which saw its polio cases spike this year, the number of cases has been 35, a dramatic decrease from 187 a year ago. Pakistan accounts for 85 percent of global cases of polio this year, Frieden noted. Pakistan, along with Afghanistan and Nigeria, are three remaining polio endemic countries.

The GPEI is on the verge of a major polio achievement in Nigeria. The country has registered only six cases to date this year. "Nigeria is in excellent position to stop circulation of polio this year," said Frieden. "It has gotten 'this close' to eradicating polio by a remarkable turnaround of the program, implementing an emergency operations center, developing a proactive approach to eradication, finding innovative ways to reach children in insecure areas."

Frieden talked about how Nigeria's Polio Emergency Operations Center aided in the quick and effective response to the country's Ebola outbreak. Senior officials from the center were sent to Lagos to lead the effort. They opened an Ebola treatment unit and conducted contact tracing with up to 500 people per day.

"In spite of these efforts, polio activities did not suffer," said Frieden. "This is the legacy of polio eradication in action, and it saved lives by successfully stopping the outbreak."

Most of the polio cases in Afghanistan in 2014 are the result of reintroduction from Pakistan, said James Alexander, senior medical epidemiologist for the CDC. But the country has made significant progress the last two years because of the implementation of its emergency action plan, he said.

"To ensure progress in 2015, there needs to be engagement with new national leadership, intensified focus on 'missed' children, and continued dialogue with other countries," Alexander told attendees.

In March a key milestone was met when the World Health Organization certified its 11-country Southeast Asia region had eradicated polio. Now, 80 percent of the world's population live in areas that are certified polio-free.

Co-sponsored by Rotary and Sanofi Pasteur, the program took place before a live audience in Chicago and streamed online for viewers worldwide. Time magazine science and technology editor Jeffery Kluger moderated the event.

Olivier Charmeil, president and CEO of Sanofi Pasteur, the largest manufacturer of polio vaccine, said in a video address that this year's World Polio Day is significant "because we are beginning the last chapter on polio."

Led by Nepal, a group of 120 countries will introduce the inactivated polio vaccine in the next few months. Charmeil said IPV, an injectable polio vaccine, will be part of all routine immunization programs in every country around the world.

"I look forward to the day we can stand together, alongside Rotary and the other international partners, the day we declare the world polio free," Charmeil told the audience.

Rotary General Secretary John Hewko praised the work of the GPEI, calling the organization "perhaps the most ambitious and effective public-private partnership ever assembled." More than 2.5 billion children have been vaccinated since its launch.

The annual number of polio cases has fallen from 350,000 in 1988 to 416 in 2013, and 222 so far this year, a remarkable decrease of more than 99 percent. UNICEF estimates that 10 million people would have otherwise been infected, while 1.5 million lives have been saved.

Rotary has contributed more than $1.2 billion to polio eradication since taking on the disease in 1979. That amount got a significant boost earlier this week after Rotary announced it will provide an additional $44.7 million toward the polio fight.

"Once we wipe polio from the face of the planet, we will not only have ensured no child will ever again be paralyzed by this terrible disease, we will have set the stage for the next major global health initiative, whatever it may be," said Hewko.

World Polio Day on Saturday October 24th 2015-10-21 04:00:00Z 0

Commisioner Van Mcleod

Commisioner Van Mcleod spoke about New Hampshire Governor Winant on October 7, 2015
 
Commisioner Van Mcleod 2015-10-08 04:00:00Z 0

New Members Welcomed

Two new members, David Kuhns and Kyla Ludwig, were inducted and welcomed to our club on 9/23/15.
 
New Members Welcomed 2015-10-04 04:00:00Z 0

Speakers on 9/30/15

Two bipartisan speakers from the Concord Coalition spoke on the upcoming budget for the new president. The primary speakers were Rich Ashooh and Rich Swett
 
Speakers on 9/30/15 2015-10-04 04:00:00Z 0
Laura Chenette Speaker on 9/23/15 2015-10-04 04:00:00Z 0
Ellie Atherton Speaker on 9/9/15 2015-10-04 04:00:00Z 0

Shawn Jasper NH Speaker of the House

Our speaker on August 26th was Shawn Jasper, Speaker of the NH House of Representatives. His presentation focused on the latest State budget and the efforts to reach agreement with our State Governor.
Shawn Jasper NH Speaker of the House 2015-08-29 04:00:00Z 0

Lisa Dudgeon Speaks at Meeting on Aug 12, 2015

Lisa Dudgeon is a teacher at the Bedford High School and is a recipient of a Bedford Education Foundation Grant funded by the Rotary Club. She described the training sessions on Government and Politics and how this will be put to use in future BHS classes.
Lisa Dudgeon Speaks at Meeting on Aug 12, 2015 2015-08-14 04:00:00Z 0

Tammy Poirier

Tammy Poirier was the speaker on August 5, 2015. Tammy is a Nutritionist and Bedford Rotary club member. She gave the club a nutrition guidelines update about the changes in how fats and cholesterol are viewed vs. the harmful effects of sugars and trans fats
Tammy Poirier 2015-08-07 04:00:00Z 0

Home Health Care

Joanne Rizzo spoke to the club about Home Health Care at our meeting on July 29th
Home Health Care 2015-07-30 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club awards scholarships to local graduates

This article appeared in the Bedford Journal
 
Friday, July 24, 2015
 
 

Courtesy photo. The Rotary Club of Bedford awarded three scholarships this year to graduating seniors. Scholarships were presented by Amy Jenkins, far left, to, from left, Elias Ashooh, Michael Trough and Caleb Alexander. -

The Rotary Club of Bedford awarded three scholarships this year to graduating seniors.
 
 The Rotary Service Award Scholarship of $2,500 was given to Elias Ashooh of Bedford High School who will be attending Providence College.
 
Caleb Alexander of Bedford High School was awarded a music scholarship of $1,000 and will be attending University of Hartford's Hartt School of Music.
 
 Michael Trough of Manchester West High School was awarded a music scholarship of $1,000 and will be attending Plymouth State University.
 
 In addition, the Rotary do­nated to the following organi­zations this year: Challenger Sports, Bedford Public Library Summer Reading Program, NH Food Bank, Camp Allen - dona­tion for repairs and the Camp­ership Fund, Bedford Educa­tional Foundation Grant to fund a teacher for AP Government Course training, Friends of Bed­ford Cemeteries, The Derryfield School Breakthrough Manches­ter Program, Northeast Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, Inc., Knights of Columbus for the Veterans Home in Tilton, Bed­ford High School Leadership class projects including Parker Varney School, Food for Chil­dren and Liberty House, Nashua Rotary Club Mexico Pediatric Neurology Project, St. Anselm College Bedford Rotary Scholar­ship Fund and the Rotary Inter­national Foundation.
 
This year, the Rotary is proud to be a sponsor of a new Interact Club at Bedford High School. The orga­nization also raises money for the Salvation Army by ringing the bell during the holidays.
 
The Rotary Club of Bedford meets every Wednesday morning at 7:30 a.m. at the Manchester Country Club. Visit their web­site for details: www.clubrunner.ca\bedford. The Rotary's motto is "Service Above Self." -
Rotary Club awards scholarships to local graduates 2015-07-24 04:00:00Z 0

New Baby for Mark and Julie Whitney

On July 9th a new baby, Daniel Mark Whitney, was born to Mark and Julie Whitney. He was 12 lbs 10 oz and 23 inches in length. Here are several pictures:
 
 
Shea Bella with her new brother
 
Mark and Julie with Daniel
New Baby for Mark and Julie Whitney 2015-07-23 04:00:00Z 0
Convenient MD Speaker on Jul 22, 2015 2015-07-22 04:00:00Z 0

District Conference on May 28th

The District Conference was held in Portland Maine on May 28th.. Mary Ann Senatro gave the invocation at the start of the meeting. Our club received recognition for chartering the Bedford High School Interact Club.
District Conference on May 28th 2015-06-04 04:00:00Z 0

Speaker on June 3rd

Jake McManus  of Procon presented the plans and status of the construction effort that replaces the previous Sheraton Wayfarer hotel
Speaker on June 3rd 2015-06-04 04:00:00Z 0
VA Memorial Dinner 2015-05-30 04:00:00Z 0

May 5 Speaker

 
Bill Jennings, Station Manager for Bedford Community TV was our speaker on May 6, 2015
May 5 Speaker 2015-05-20 04:00:00Z 0

April 29th Speaker

Our speaker on April 29th was Hugh Dubrille of St Anselm College who spoke about Human Nature
April 29th Speaker 2015-05-03 00:00:00Z 0

Happy Dollars

 
Charlie Fairman and Dave Wall collecting Happy Dollars from Rotary Members
Happy Dollars 2015-04-26 00:00:00Z 0
Nashua Rotary Presents Mexican Project 2015-04-26 00:00:00Z 0
Bedford Rotary Memorial Road Race Flyer 2015-04-24 00:00:00Z 0

Pasta Festival on BCTV

BCTV is running their show that Dave Danielson hosted on Community Corner on BCTV.  The show is currently running on the station (channel 16 in Bedford) and can be seen tonight at 8:00pm.  Bill Jennings did an excellent job putting this show together and Dave is a great interviewer.  The band is also featured, as is Doug and Paul.
 
For those outside of Bedford the show is available as streaming video from the BCTV website at http://72.71.246.74/Cablecast/Public/Show.aspx?ChannelID=1&ShowID=6918
 
The show will be broadcast on air on:
4/23/2015 at 8:00 PM
4/24/2015 at 7:30 AM
4/24/2015 at 5:00 PM
4/25/2015 at 11:00 AM
4/25/2015 at 9:00 PM
4/26/2015 at 7:30 AM
4/26/2015 at 5:00 PM
4/27/2015 at 11:00 AM
4/27/2015 at 9:00 PM
4/28/2015 at 7:30 AM
4/28/2015 at 5:00 PM
4/29/2015 at 11:00 AM
4/29/2015 at 9:00 PM
4/30/2015 at 7:30 AM
4/30/2015 at 5:00 PM 
 
Pasta Festival on BCTV 2015-04-23 00:00:00Z 0

Bedford Police Chief April 1, 2015 Speaker

Bedford Police Chief John Bryfonski spoke at the April 1, 2015 Rotary meeting. He brought us up to date on the operation of the Bedford Police Department and the recent unfortunate news event in our town.
Bedford Police Chief April 1, 2015 Speaker 2015-04-03 00:00:00Z 0
Angelique Kidjo Song 2015-03-29 00:00:00Z 0
Polio Eradication in Last 3 Countries 2015-03-29 00:00:00Z 0
World Water 2015-03-28 00:00:00Z 0
New Memorial Road Race Facebook Page 2015-03-26 00:00:00Z 0
Rotary Foundation - Doing Good in Ghana 2015-03-18 00:00:00Z 0
Italian Festival April 11, 2015 2015-03-18 00:00:00Z 0
Tammy Poirier Speaker on Mar 11, 2015 2015-03-14 00:00:00Z 0
Two New Club Members Welcomed 2015-03-14 00:00:00Z 0

Interact Celebration

An Interact Celebration was held at the Bedford Public Library on January 25, 2015 to recognize the official start of the Bedford High School Interact club as a part of Rotary International
 
 
Rotary Club President Mary Ann Senatro presents the official Interact Club banner to the President of the Interact Club
 
 
Picture of members of the Interact Club, Rotary District Governor Rich Berryman, and Rotary Club President Mary Ann Senatro
 
 
Picture of Meghan Lydon the Bedford High School Club Advisor and Honorary Rotary member with several members of the Interact Club
 
Interact Celebration 2015-02-04 00:00:00Z 0
CLUB SOCIAL HONORING DON LEVASSEUR SET FOR MARCH 26 Jerry Hanauer 2015-01-27 00:00:00Z 0
Uaing ClubRunner 2014-09-17 00:00:00Z 0

Club Receives Tips on Etiquette

Posted on Sep 09, 2014
Speaker Chair Bruce Blight has etiquette expert Lynda Simmons sign the plate of a book donated to the Bedford Library in appreciation of Ms. Simmons' appearance

 

Club Receives Tips from Etiquette Expert

 
The Rotary Club of Bedford got a lesson on etiquette on Wednesday Set. 10 from its guest speaker, business etiquette expert Linda Simmons. Linda had tips for remembering the appropriate place-setting side for silverware and water glasses setting, the proper use of table napkins vs handkerchiefs, and rules for civil cell-phone use. Unless you're awaiting word on the availability of a kidney, Ms. Simmons stated, cell phones should be turned off during meetings.
 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The Bad Boys table was spellbound by remarks on the subject of etiquette made by our breakfast speaker on September 10.
Club Receives Tips on Etiquette Jerry Hanauer 2014-09-10 00:00:00Z 0
2014 40th Anniversary Bedford Memorial Road Race 2014-06-01 00:00:00Z 0
Video - What in the World is Rotary 2014-03-23 00:00:00Z 0
Come Join Us Video 2014-02-07 00:00:00Z 0
Service Above Self Video 2014-01-23 00:00:00Z 0