Stories

Rotarian Mike Pound presented the program on the Rotary International Foundation.  The foundation’s goal of making the world a better place focuses on six areas:  building peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, supporting mothers and children, promoting education and growing local economies. 

The Rotary International Foundation is perhaps best known for its work in the End Polio Now campaign.  We have the opportunity to eradicate polio in our lifetime.  We are down to Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Pakistan as the only three countries with polio.  John Pinter informed us that there will be a polio immunization trip to India in February.  Contact John for more details. 

The Rotary International Foundation is rated “four stars” from Charity Navigator and 92% of donations go directly to programs.  Our club didn’t make contribution goal last year, so it is even more important that we have as many Rotarians as possible make their “Every Rotarian Every Year” goal of at least $100.00.  Donations to the Rotary International Foundation also count toward Paul Harris Fellowships.

Mark Andrews introduced fellow Rotarian and Executive Director of Downtown South Bend, Inc. Aaron Perri as our program speaker.  Aaron outlined the ambitious and exciting plans for South Bend’s upcoming sesquicentennial celebration including a three day event Memorial Day weekend surrounding the St. Joseph River downtown.  The event will be the centerpiece of a year-long recognition of the city’s first 150 years since incorporating in 1865.  The various events will include a concert in the Century Center parking lot, fireworks, a taste of South Bend along Jefferson Street, an “adventure park” area, Kids Zone, Tech Hub, Wine and Brew Mixer, Gus Macker basketball tournament, a Studebaker car show, Artisan Alley, the unveiling of a permanent light sculpture along the river, and much more.  This undertaking will require up to 500 volunteers.  Local organizations and individual are invited to participate throughout the year in numerous small ways to help the city through the “Serve South Bend” project.  “Discover South Bend” will highlight the past, present, and future of the city through lectures, exhibits, tours and events.  Local writers and photographers are encouraged to participate in the SB 150 challenge, chronicling South Bend in words and photos.  For more information, visit www.sb150.com.

Rotarian Beth North introduced this week’s guest speaker, Purdue graduate Matt “Water” Gavelek, the Senior Environmental Health Specialist with the St. Joseph County Health Department.  Matt works for the county on the Drinking Water Protection Plan.  Matt explained that St. Joseph County has one of the largest aquifers in the state of Indiana and it is one of the best places to get water from.  There are a lot of areas in our county that have a large amount of individual septic systems and these systems are adding nitrates to our water.  Nitrates are an issue because they can cause “Blue Baby Syndrome” and other medical issues that we are still learning more about with research.  High level of nitrates 10 ppm (parts per million) or more in the water, according to EPA standards.  A lot of people in St. Joseph County live within the cities and have city water and sewer, but for those in the county that are not, this can be an issue.  The biggest issue is that we do not know the long term effects that this is going to have on our water system and aquifer.  Matt and his office are focusing their efforts on long term solutions to this problem.  They are currently working on over 20 alternatives to the issue, and are hopeful for the future.  Thank you to Matt for speaking to our club and teaching us how we can work together to make sure everyone in St. Joseph County has safe drinking water.

Rotarian Steve Anella introduced our speaker, Mike Beganski of nCloud.  Mike is a graduate of Indiana University and the Kelley School of Business at IU.  nCloud was started to provide sharing services across nonprofits in our local area.  Mike also spoke about Enfocus, the organization that was started in 2012 to create fellowships for local college graduates in the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) divisions so that these young professionals would stay in our region.  The first year of the fellowship, there were seven fellows.  They had hoped that 50% of these fellows would stay in South Bend, and actually, 75% of them have stayed.  These fellows worked with nCloud to provide much needed innovation to over 27 local nonprofits.  One of the largest area nonprofits benefitting from the work of nCloud is the City of South Bend that has saved millions from the research and changes that were implemented from the Enfocus fellows.  nCloud has been able to provide internet, VOIP (voice over internet protocol) fibre optic communication, data center and hosting services to its 27 nonprofits at its main location.  The nCloud VOIP services alone have saved Logan Industries from paying $25.00 per phone to $5.00 per phone per month.  VOIP is an alternative to traditional analog telephone service that converts voice into digital signals.  We wish nCloud and Enfocus much success in creating a new ecosystem of young professionals who are socially responsible entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs.

Rotarian Jeff Sparks introduced our speaker Rich Carlton, COO of Data Realty.  Rich is a graduate of Indiana University and is a big supporter of the growth that is happening in the economy of South Bend.  Rich focused his talk on discussing big data, analytics, and how our region can be a leader in this emerging industry.  Big data is all the information collected on the internet daily from what one person may be looking at on their social media, to the account information that a company accountant is working on, and everything in between.  Data is very personal, and it is through this collection of data that a company or organization can focus its effort in a more specific manner.  Analytics can be used in all sectors, from politics to know which voters would swing from one side to another, to sports, where a team like the Oakland A’s can compete with the New York Yankees for half the cost.  What Data Realty has found is that large companies can use Big Data and Analytics to assist them with their company’s growth.  Mid-market companies wanted to use Big Data, but did not have the resources to do so. Therefore, Data Realty was created to fill this gap for mid-market companies, so they can allow big data to work for them.  Data Realty is one of the first companies to have a building in Ignition Park.  They are working with local talent to make their company, and others like them in our region to become the next Silicon Valley for half the cost.  

Rotarian Drew Elegante introduced our speaker, Therese Dorau, the new director of the South Bend Office of Sustainability.  Tess grew up in Muncie, IN and had been living on the east coast for many years, but is very excited with her new role in South Bend.  She has been working for the Office of Sustainability for about 6 months, which is how long she has lived in South Bend.  Her new role as director is one that will deal with ways to not only improve the City of South Bend on a governmental level sustainable, but on a greater community level as well.  She called it the BIG C for the City of South Bend and the little c for community.  Both parts need to work together to make South Bend more sustainable.  Her team is focusing now on doing research, gathering data via surveys, and working with plans that have worked on the national level work for us.  All of her efforts will be launched in the Spring of 2015.  She hopes that with the help of the Green Ribbon Commission, local business and community members, we can make South Bend the best model of sustainability, like Fort Collins, CO or Austin, TX. 

Once again, our Rotary Club was thrilled to have Coach Muffet McGraw as our speaker.  Muffet, Coach of the Year for the second year in a row, led the Lady Irish into the Final Four for a fourth year last season.  Muffet notes that this will be a tough season, as the team is particularly young, having graduated five top players in the last 5 years.  Jewell Taylor, one of the best in the nation, will lead the team.  Joining this year is Brianna Turner, the #1 high school player in the country, along with 2 other standout freshmen.  Muffet says the lifeblood of the program is recruiting, which begins in July when players are watched during AAU tournaments.  Coach is disappointed that more top players aren’t coming from the Midwest, citing Texas, Georgia, and California as the top sources for talent.  Asked about academic issues, Muffet says there are NCAA guidelines that are followed, which include checking attendance records.  Naturally, it’s impossible to monitor everything, but she trusts in the integrity of the type of player they recruit.  Players are cautioned not to use social media to vent, imposing a 30-minute “dead zone” before tweeting, to avoid emotional posts.  As in the past, Duke is shaping up to be their biggest challenge, followed by North Carolina.  The team will be facing a difficult schedule.  The Final Four will be played in Tampa, and the top 16 teams will hold the 1^st and 2^nd rounds. 

Muffet graciously participated in our drive to “End Polio Now” by having her pinky painted purple.  For every dollar donated by our Rotary Club, an additional $2.00 will be matched by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

The 26^th Annual Disability Awareness Luncheon came together, yet again, thanks to the hard-working Rotarian Debie Coble and her committee.  The event is held to recognize and honor employees with disabilities and their employers.  Proclamations were given by Mayor Pete Buttigieg and Mayor Dave Wood, and awards were given to 16 area employers.  This year’s speaker was Misti Rooks, well-known to many in the community as the owner/operator of Misti’s Mug & Muffin, and Misti’s Down Under.  Misti was born with cerebral palsy and epilepsy.  Although doctors recommended to her young mother that she be institutionalized, Misti thrived, thanks to early influences in her life that taught her to believe in herself and succeed, despite her physical challenges; to focus less on what she couldn’t do, but rather all that she could do.  Misti is an avid sports fan and active community volunteer.  She has been recognized by several organizations for her outstanding attitude and inspiration.

Rotarian Terry Bush introduced our speaker, Mike Claytor.  Mike is a candidate for Indiana State Auditor.  He has worked formerly for the Indiana State Board of Accounts.  Uniquely (and ironically), he is the first Auditor candidate who is actually a CPA.  Mike believes Indiana is going in the wrong direction with its tax policy.  In contemplating the elimination of the business personal property tax, two issues of concern came out of the legislative session.  Each county will have the option to exempt business equipment for values under $25,000.00.  And each county will have the option to eliminate the BPT on any new equipment brought in by a new business.  This being an option rather than an across-the-board change will be a problem, as it could cause county wars.  Corporation decisions could be based on best tax policy rather than best labor force.  Small entities will end up paying higher tax rates, and it will do nothing to benefit existing businesses.  Mike said that Indiana revenues decreased last year despite it being a recovery year.  Corporate profits were at record levels, jobs were up, which means average wages declined. 

Rotarian Julianne Jankowski introduced our program speaker, Dr. Alfred Guillaume, president of 100 Black Men of Greater Michiana.  In New York, NY in 1963, a small group of black men got together to talk about the plight of African American males in our country.  This led to the formation of 100 Black Men, of which there are now 84 chapters across the country.  The Greater Michiana chapter was started in 2009.  This group of local men is comprised of 56 men from all sectors of the community.  Their four pillars are mentoring, education, health & wellness, and economic development.  They meet regularly with groups of young African American males in our community with a curriculum that includes forgiveness, family values, self-respect, character & leadership development, financial responsibility, study habits, goal-setting, violence, and gang activity.  They emphasize with youth their roles as Americans, responsible community members, and pride in African American heritage.  The goal is to change the pathway of destruction.  They are always looking for partner mentors.  The group is holding a fundraising gala the first of November.   

Rotarian Matt Kahn introduced our speaker Michael Liersch, Director of Behavioral Finance at Merrill Lynch Corp.  Michael earned several degrees, including an AB from Harvard.  He is a pioneer and published author in the field of behavioral economics.  Michael cited the 3 most important questions that should be asked:  What is your primary intent when it comes to investing; do you have enough, just enough, or not enough to achieve that intent; and who have you shared this information with?

Research indicates far below 10% have shared this information, and Michael stressed how important this is toward reaching one’s goal.  Half of those surveyed are fearful they won’t have enough money, with the majority being Millenials.  Michael cited a study of college students who are distrustful in investing.  He said that this is primarily because they have not witnessed the value of investing.  Michael stressed that the best source of education is not schools but parents.  He urged parents to have conversations with their kids about the value of investing in their future.

Aaron Perri introduced Deputy Mayor Mark Neal as our program speaker.  Mark took over for Mayor Pete while Pete was serving in Afghanistan.  During that time, Mark developed a greater appreciation for political leaders as they really do manage our future.  He was really impressed with Mayor Pete’s ability to spark the renaissance that South Bend is experiencing as a center for technical and medical innovation; since jobs follow talent, it has encouraged a young group of entrepreneurs. One of the highlights in South Bend’s resurgence as a center for technical growth is the Notre Dame Turbo Center at Ignition Park, which was one of 19 businesses that has created over 1000 jobs and invested over 73 million dollars in the community.  He credited the commitment of Rotary to the community and asked us to do more, volunteer more, and mentor more to help make South Bend be the best that it can be.

The main feature of our program was the Salute to Uncle Bob – our retiring Club Secretary to celebrate his 18 years of service to the Club and our District.  With the incomparable Scotty Brennan as the M.C., the tribute was kicked off in high gear to the “World’s Greatest Club Secretary in our price range.” Past Presidents then began their reminiscences of Bob Annis.  Two-time President Mark McDonnell reminded the Club that Bob Annis was no Tony Gagnon.  Tony was Bob’s predecessor.  Tom Forsey remembered “the Old Man” as always giving the advice “you’ll figure it out.”  For Sally Brown, Bob was her mentor and answer man for all things Rotary.  Bill Coleman, Bob’s successor, was amazed at all the District events and all the New Member Orientations Bob attended, and concluded with a toast to “the man that casts a long shadow at noon.” 

The other woman in Bob’s life, Rotary Office Manager for 17 years, Judy Hirschler, recalled that even though Bob liked to play devil’s advocate, she was right 97% of the time, but did admit Bill Coleman had some very big shoes to fill.

Then it was Bob’s turn.  He thanked the Club and claimed never to have met a Rotarian that he didn’t like and that he was able to accomplish it all – “through a little help from my friends”.  He assured the Club that he was not leaving Rotary but would be table hopping at meetings to ferret out any suspicious activity, maybe sit at the Old Timers Table and maybe a little ….payback, because “only the good die young and I made the cut!”

Jim Masters read the Proclamation that lauded Bob’s service and declared 26 June 2013 as Robert Annis, Jr. Day.  President Terry Bush presented Bob with the customary Speaker’s gifts, plus a Rotary cap and the news that a generous gift card will be sent.

Pictured Bob and his wife Katie, his son and daughter-in-law.

Mary Mathews introduced the Club to the University of Notre Dame’s Family Friendship program.  This is a non-home stay program that began in 1957 to assist students from other countries to acclimate to the lifestyle in the United States.  Mary recalled the young women from China, Emily and Peilu, that she and Joe host.  Mary introduced McKenna Pencak, who heads up the program at Notre Dame.  She revealed that Notre Dame currently has 1,018 international students from 86 countries, and welcome about 350 new students every year.  McKenna then introduced two PhD students in the program, Lawrence Itela from Kenya, and Ashish Kushwaha from India, to share their experiences. Both Lawrence and Ashish said that their host families totally dispelled their preconceived notions of American life and family life, in particular finding us loving and caring.  Their host families also helped them cope with the weather and understand American football.  Hope Nutting, host mom to Ashish, explained that the experience has helped her family by broadening their experiences with a new culture and religion. 

McKenna encouraged the Rotarians to get even more involved.  The deadline to apply for this program is the end of August, and further information is on www.issa@nd.edu

Dear Rotarians:

Once again it is that time of year for our club to reach out and help the needy families in our community have a HAPPY THANKSGIVING!  Our Thanksgiving Basket Drive delivery day is Friday, November 16^th.  Our goal this year is to deliver baskets to 80 families.  The cost of each basket is $100.00, so we need to raise $8,000.00!  I humbly ask for your support to raise the money for the baskets and make the deliveries.  Our club has stepped up every year to make this program a huge success.  Let’s do it again!!

     CLUB LASALLE

5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

For $15 per person, you get two drinks and amazing appetizers – along with Rotary fellowship!

Long time Rotary member Erv Derda was honored for his service to our country with a special tribute by Gene Bruce.  Erv’s wife and daughters, and Rotarian son Jeff were in attendance to share the memories with him.

Our very special Senior Veteran, Bernie Vagner, lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance.

The words had a very special meaning to all our veterans as we celebrated their service and sacrifice to our country.

South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg and Mishawaka Mayor Dave Wood with speaker Misti Rooks.    

President Terry, along with Hugh Johnson, had the pleasure of introducing Cory Gilmartin, president of the new St. Joseph County Rotaract Club, which is open to students ages 18 to 30.  Our club is the proud sponsor of this newly formed Rotaract Club.  They can be contacted on the following social media:  St. Joseph County Rotaract – Facebook  and Linked In.

Saturday, February 16, 2013  The Doubletree Hotel Atrium

Dinner, Dancing, Auction, After Party!

For more information or tickets, call 574-968-4236 or email team@inspiredhomes.com

Proceeds benefit the Rotary Club Charitable Foundation to fund scholarships, philanthropic programs, and much more throughout the year!

Many important battles in life have to be fought more than once to be won.

The results of Wednesday’s election are as follows:

President: Amy Hill  President-elect: Jim Goodhew   Secretary:  Bill Coleman

Treasurer:  Steve Goldberg.

Elected to the Board of Directors for a four year term are:

Todd Zeiger, Lisa Rzepnicki, Jackie Hilderbrandt, and Vivian Sallie.  Congratulations to all.

              CLUB LASALLE

5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

For $15 per person, you get two drinks and amazing appetizers – along with Rotary fellowship!

A pessimist is someone who complains about the noise when opportunity knocks.

Dear Rotarians:

We have met our goal again this year!  A huge thank you to everyone for their generosity  to make this drive a success for our club, and a great day for those who are less fortunate than we are!

Thank you!

Rafael Morton, chairperson

Dear Rotarians:

We only have next Wednesday to reach our goal of $8,000.00 to help 80 needy families in our community have a HAPPY THANKSGIVING.  At this point, with donations and pledges we have a total of $3,500.00.  Therefore, I am asking – no, please allow me to rephrase – I am begging for your generosity at our meeting next Wednesday Nov. 14^th.  It is incumbent upon all of us to make this drive a success for our club, and a great day for those who are less fortunate than we are!

Thank you!

Rafael Morton, chairperson

              CLUB LASALLE

5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

For $15 per person, you get two drinks and amazing appetizers – along with Rotary fellowship!

Please be sure that the Rotary office has your correct and current contact information.

You can go online to www.Rotary.org and access your personal profile.  Follow the directions to make changes to your information.  You can even add a photo!  If you would rather just call the office,  Barbara can correct any information that is outdated or missing.  Call her at 574-233-1516.  Thank you!

Check your desk and dresser drawers for old Rotary photos for our history project.  You can bring them to Wednesday meetings in an envelope with your name on them to return them to you.  Questions – tzeiger@indianalandmarks.org

Please consider attending the District Foundation Dinner on Friday, September 28 at the Lerner Ballroom, Elkhart, IN. It will be a night of fine dining, inspiration, and fellowship, as well as an opportunity to support Rotary Foundation programs, such as Group Study Exchange, polio eradication, District and International Grants and scholarships.  Be aware that $45.00 of the $110.00 ticket cost will go directly to the R.I. Foundation in the member’s name, a fun way to help fulfill an EREY commitment.
Clubs usually have more projects than dollars and this is an opportunity for South Bend Rotary to receive grant funds.  If 10% of our members attend, the Club will qualify for a $500 District Simplified Grant or $1,000.00 for an International Matching Grant.  For the Club with the highest percent in its size category, an additional $500 will be awarded for the DSG or an additional $1,000 for the Matching Grant.
Schedule of Events:

                    Social Mixer                    5:30 – 6:15p.m.
                    Silent Auction                 5:30 -  7:30p.m.
                    Dinner                             6:15 -  7:30p.m.
                    Program                          7:30 -  9:00p.m.
Go to www.rotary6540.org to register and pay for the dinner.
As a host club, we guarantee everyone a fun evening.  Hope to see you there!