“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller
Dear Friends,
Happy Friday! I hope your week has been fantastic.
How about that Eagles win last Friday? Before the game, the Newtown Rotary Club co-hosted one of the most meaningful events of the year—a 9/11 tribute. Seeing our community’s police, fire, and EMT first responders gather in full uniform to honor the fallen was incredibly moving. Rev. Tim Smith set the tone with a powerful invocation, and Paul Salvatore’s stirring rendition of "God Bless America," with the American flag gently swaying in the sunset behind him, left many of us in tears. The event was a reminder of why we honor those who serve and protect our community, and of our promise to "Never Forget." For more details and photographs, please see below.
Speaking of service, let’s cheer for our fellow Rotarian, Bill Wise! Featured in his firefighter uniform in the 9/11 tribute photos below, Bill is also showing his courage in this year’s Mr. Bucks County competition. He’s competing with heart, raising funds for Main Street—a nonprofit dear to our Rotary family that supports breast cancer patients. Twelve contestants are in the race, but with Rotary spirit, we can help Bill take the lead. Every donation propels him closer to being crowned, while raising donations to assist those battling cancer. Support Bill through this link: Support Bill Wise.
At Tuesday’s dinner meeting, the room was buzzing with energy—29 members and guests strong! We welcomed back Alan Schultz, President of Pedals for Progress, who reminded us just how life-changing our bike donations are. These bikes can boost daily incomes by 30%, helping families access education, work, clean water, and healthcare. With our goal set to collect 250 bikes this year, we’re ready to make a real impact. More information can be found below. If you’re eager to get involved, join us TODAY at Allen Fidler’s barn at 10 a.m. to disassemble over 60 bikes.
We also had the joy of welcoming Pastor Rodney Brailsford back after the birth of his first child, Jack! (Our own Jack Erickson couldn't have been more thrilled about the name!) In another proud moment, Mick Petrucci was honored for his exceptional community service, with Paul Salvatore presenting him a stunning trophy from Gene Epstein. Kudos to Paul for his own recognized achievements as well! It’s moments like these that remind us how lucky we are to be part of such a remarkable group of change-makers.
Looking ahead, don’t miss next Wednesday’s lunch meeting on September 18th. Before the district governor presentation and lunch, we’ll be making Rotary history with a special aerial photo at 12:15 PM in the Newtown Borough Fire Station parking lot, thanks to Brandon Valeri-Bruschini. Be part of this historic moment in time! More details below.
And don’t forget, our NextGen team is gearing up for the State Street fundraiser on September 22nd. There are only 8 tables left! Juan Ortiz of Redd Pen Media will be filming the event, capturing yet another milestone for our club. Proceeds will go to Alpha Bravo Canine, a local Newtown charity supporting veterans with PTSD. Let’s give Kira and her team help in their final push to sell out those tables. Contact Kira if you know anyone who wants to be part of this family-friendly event.
And now…
Please Meet Another of Your Board Members!
As promised, in this and the coming issues, I’m sharing personal stories and insights from our dedicated board members. Each of them brings unique experiences, talents, and passions to our club. Their contributions help drive our mission and make a positive impact in our community. We hope these profiles give you a deeper understanding of the individuals who guide our club’s efforts and inspire you to engage with our initiatives.
Meet Kira Altomari, President of the Newtown Rotary Next Gen team, an Inspiring Journey to the Newtown Rotary Club
1. Personal Journey and Role:
My name is Kira and I am the president of NextGen. I am grateful to lead such an amazing and selfless group of young professionals.
Rotary has been ingrained in me for many years. Many of you have heard me say that I am a “Rotary Child” since my father has been greatly involved and just ended his presidency of the Warrington club.
Ever since I was in middle school, I knew that I wanted to be a social worker and I am pleased to say that I’ve accomplished that goal. I attended Council Rock elementary and middle schools and continued my high school education at Villa Joseph Marie in Holland, PA. I attended Chestnut Hill College where I received a bachelor’s degree in Human Services with minors in Sociology and Religious Studies and a master’s degree in Human Services Management.
I am constantly motivated to be an advocate for vulnerable populations, specifically adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and the aging population.
2. Impact and Achievements:
As a brand new member, I watched the NextGen group raise $6,000 for a Woman’s Place through the State Street Fundraiser! I cannot wait to do this for Alpha Bravo Canine!
3. Challenges and Future Goals:
Throughout the next year, I will continue to lead NextGen with the goal of member recruitment. Two challenges that I would like to overcome in NextGen are lack of responsiveness as a group and solidifying two meeting days/times for each month.
4. Community Engagement and Reflections:
I am constantly talking about Rotary at work and in my personal life. Sometimes I feel discouraged when people say they don’t know what Rotary is, but then I become grateful that I have the opportunity of educating a new person!
Being a member of Rotary has helped shape me into the well rounded young adult I am today. Not only have I gained mentors, but I’ve gained valuable fundraising and leadership experience that will lead me into the next chapters of my life.
5. Hobbies and Personal Interests:
Outside of Rotary, I enjoy bowling, cooking, coloring, taking walks, spending time with my cat, and fishing with my boyfriend!
6. Wildcard:
My father and I have been traveling with the Phillies on their winter trips to paradise since I was 10 years old (I am now 26!).
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