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MEETING LOCATION
  
 
2nd, 3rd, & 4th Thursday
 
Flatiron Building
5th Floor - Community Room
301 Broadway
Bethlehem PA 18015
 
 
THIS WEEK'S SPEAKER
                                                                       
                                     
NOAHHS
 
At our May 14, 2026 meeting, Joelle Mafouoti, founder of the Nonprofit Organization for the Advancement of Health, Hygiene, and Sanitation (NOAHHS), presented her organization's mission and background. She explained how NOAHS originated from her son Alex's experience observing poor sanitation practices in Cameroon during a 2015 visit, leading to the organization's founding in 2019. Joelle described their initial projects in Cameroon, including education on natural fertilization and sanitation, as well as plans for building public toilets, though these were interrupted by COVID-19. The organization's nonprofit status was reinstated in 2024, and they are now working with a Canadian nonprofit (CAWS) to implement water filtration solutions that can be sustained locally.
 
NOAHHS is also bringing to the Lehigh Valley health and wellness programs and cultural events, such as yoga and an African-American Festival. 
 
COMMUNITY GRANT 
 
Congratulations to New Bethany, recipient of the $10,000 Bethlehem Morning Star Rotary Community Grant!
 
Chris Cassidy accepted the check to stock the food pantry on behalf of this impactful organization.
SAVVY CAREGIVER
 
At our April 23, 2026 meeting, we welcomed Annette Rodrigues who spoke about the SAVVY CAREGIVER program, which provides training for caregivers of individuals with dementia. Annette explained the program's objectives, including increasing caregiver confidence, teaching effective strategies, and improving self-care skills. She detailed the program's structure and approach to managing dementia-related behaviors, emphasizing the importance of contented involvement for both caregivers and those with dementia. The discussion included questions about resources for dementia care, respite care options, and how to access the SAVVY program.
 
With over 25 years of dedicated service in the Lehigh Valley community, Annette has built a career centered on empowering individuals, strengthening families, and fostering healthier, more connected communities.  Annette holds a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership, which serves as the foundation of her work in guiding individuals and organizations toward meaningful impact and sustainable growth.  
 
Currently Annette serves as Chair of the Diabetes Coalition of the Lehigh Valley, where she leads collaborative efforts to advance diabetes prevention, education, and community-based support. As a certified Diabetes Prevention Lifestyle Coach and Savvy Caregiver Dementia Coach, she works closely with individuals and families to promote healthier living and provide compassionate guidance for those caring for loved ones with dementia.
AGE-FRIENDLY LEHIGH VALLEY
 
Our speaker at our April 16, 2026 meeting, Victoria Cyr, MSW, LSW, serves as the Director of Community Hubs at United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, where she collaborates with partners across the region to expand access to food, programming, and community resources. She helps lead the Age-Friendly Lehigh Valley initiative, working to support healthy aging and improve quality of life for older adults. Many thanks to Victoria for introducing us to this important work.
MORNINGSTAR MEMORY CAFE
 
At our March 19, 2026, we welcomed Nazareth Rotarian, Mollie Santee, who spoke to our members regarding the Memory Cafe program at Morningstar Living which provides social support and activities for people with dementia and their caregivers, operating twice monthly at Advent Moravian Church in Hanover Township. 
 
 
Mollie gave an overview on the Memory Cafe initiative, which began in July 2020. The program aims to address social isolation for people living with dementia by providing a safe, accessible space for twice-monthly gatherings featuring carefully planned activities, music, and special guests. She explained that participants must come with a caregiver and discussed the importance of finding the right setting, noting that the location was chosen to serve retirement communities in the area.
 
 
Molly discussed the importance of support for those facing dementia and described the Morningstar Living community's mission to enrich the lives of residents through various care services including wellness programs and on-site dental and podiatry clinics.  She discussed the various support programs available for caregivers and individuals with dementia, including free support groups, Memory Lane programs, and an early stage dementia support group. Mollie explained the concept and purpose of Memory Cafes, emphasizing their importance for social interaction and support for caregivers and individuals with dementia, She stated that while these programs are offered free of charge, they do incur costs for hospitality and activities, and noted that while Morningstar Living operates a home care agency, the primary purpose of the Memory Cafe is not marketing but providing a supportive social environment.
 
The presentation also provided information about Dementia-Friendly Lehigh Valley. Approximately 25,000 individuals are living with Alzheimer’s in the Lehigh Valley.  The Lehigh Valley Dementia-Friendly Coalition seeks to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders through its Dementia-Friendly Lehigh Valley initiative.
 
CLICK HERE to view presentation.
MSR WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS
Morning Star Rotary welcomed
two new members on March 19, 2026.
 
Leah Mason and Asha Lutabingwa
 
 
Our new MSR Rotarians work at Lehigh University.  Leah is Deputy Director of the Iacocca Institute, Director of the Iacocca International Internship Program and Asha is the Director of the Office of International Students and Scholars.
 
 
Welcome Leah & Asha
 to our Morning Star family!
PARADE OF THE SHAMROCKS
  
 
On Saturday, March 14, 2026, Morning Star Rotary participated in the annual "Parade of the Shamrocks" in downtown Bethlehem sponsored by Celtic Cultural Alliance.  In addition to our float, Rotarians passed out candy along the parade route and carried banners for the various divisions of the parade.  Thank you to everyone who assisted in the planning, preparation of the banners and float, and marched in the parade.
 
 
"ROTARY AT WORK"
AND HAVING FUN DOING IT!
 
"ROTARY AT WORK"
AND HAVING FUN DOING IT!
TELLING OUR STORY!
 
 
As part of our tradition, new members are invited to share their story with the club. Formerly known as the “classification talk,” this is a chance for us to get to know new members better. Their stories are an essential part of our club’s tapestry, and sharing it helps us understand your journey, passions, and the unique perspectives you bring to our community. We believe that every member’s story enriches our collective experience and strengthens the bonds between us. Hearing their insights and experiences will inspire and connect us, fostering a deeper sense of fellowship and collaboration.
 
 
          
A recent new member of Morning Star Rotary, Debi Rice, told "Her Story" at our March 12, 2026 meeting.  Debi presented an overview of her family background, her extensive event planning and marketing business as Owner and President of Fun-Nominal Events & Marketing, and discussed her work with various clients detailing her work with craft shows, trade setups, and high-end events. She also spoke about her passion for event planning including her teaching position at a college where she trains the next generation of event planners. 
"Wanting the ability to create and diversify led to the founding of Fun-Nominal Events & Marketing. Debi is currently involved in over 300 annual events, provides marketing strategy for dozens of businesses, has spoken at national and international conferences, and contributed expertise to industry and trade publications.

In addition to Debi’s professional pursuits, she serves on numerous civic, local, and regional committees and boards."     

BETHLEHEM EMERGENCY SHELTERING
           .
On Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Morning Star Rotary members completed volunteering at the Bethlehem Emergency Sheltering for three evenings during the 2025-2026 winter months.  Members served food, washed dishes, and monitored the showers for the guests.  Our Rotary members are passionate about providing sustainable solutions to poverty, which is why we support the Bethlehem Emergency Shelter both financially and as volunteers.  The Bethlehem Emergency Sheltering is located at Christ Church UCC at 75 E Market Street, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18018.
 
                             
 
 
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY AWARD
CONGRATULATIONS
JANET!
 
 
 
"The award honors a fellow woman Rotarian who is leading the way in outstanding International and local humanitarian service. The honoree also exemplifies a dedicated support of The Rotary Foundation and her commitment to the Four-Way Test, the Rotarians world-wide moral code for personal and business relationships that can be applied to almost any aspect of life."
 
Morning Star Rotary's own PDG Janet Kolepp was honored with the "2026 Rotary International Women’s Day Rotarian Award" for her exemplary humanitarian service work, both locally and globally, by the Emmaus Rotary Club at their club meeting on Thursday, March 5, 2026.  Numerous MSR Rotarians were present to honor Janet as she accepted this award. In addition to receiving a crystal plaque, Janet was recognized with proclamations from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and Senate.  Congratulations Janet on receiving these well deserved accolades. 
 
                                                   
 
Click "Read More" to view the Janet's nomination for this outstanding award.
 
Read more...
MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS
 
On February 26, 2026, Morning Star Rotary welcomed high school junior Lydia Peters, Miss MidState's Teen 2026.  Lydia is a 17-year-old competitive pageant participant, author, and mental health advocate.  She discussed her book "Ranger's Proudly Sad" and her upcoming book tour focused on promoting mental health awareness, particularly among children. She shared her personal experiences with grief and depression, emphasizing the importance of open conversations about suicide and mental health. Lydia also highlighted the role of social media in influencing young minds and suggested age-appropriate content restrictions and parental involvement in monitoring children's online activities. She expressed her commitment to advocating for mental health resources in schools and shared her plans to collaborate with organizations like NAMI and the Shanti Project organization to further this cause.  Lydia plans to attend a four-year school in Philadelphia, major in child psychology, and compete in the Miss America Opportunity Program, where she currently represents the Central Pennsylvania area as Miss MidState's Teen.
 
CLICK HERE for additional information about Lydia and her mental health advocacy.
SKILLS USA COUNCIL
  
 
Morning Star Rotary welcomed Andy Hammer, Executive Director of SkillsUSA Council to our February 12, 2026 meeting.  SkillsUSA is a nonprofit national association serving middle-school, high-school and college/postsecondary students and their teachers.  Andy spoke about the organization's impact on career and technical education for high school students.  He shared his personal story and emphasized the importance of making a positive impact.  SkillsUSA, founded in 1965, has a local chapter in the Lehigh Valley that was established in 1985.
*******  
The mission of the SkillsUSA Council is to create a world-class workforce by developing partnerships among the business community and our schools. Serving the greater Lehigh Valley, the SkillsUSA Council connects businesses with future employees, and trains our career and technical education students to become better employees and citizens.
 
The organization impacts many students annually through competitions, networking events, and professional development opportunities.  SkillsUSA focuses on developing students' personal, workplace, and technical skills, with a particular emphasis on communication and attendance.  Andy spoke to how SkillsUSA has evolved to meet the needs of Generation Z students, who seek stability, work-life balance, and flexibility in their careers. He gave examples of successful student outcomes and the organization's role in preparing students for various career paths, including traditional trades and technical fields.
 
 
Click Here to view full presentation.
BETHLEHEM EMERGENCY SHELTERING 
  
 
Morning Star Rotary members are volunteering at the Bethlehem Emergency Sheltering on three evenings during the 2025-2026 winter months.  Members are preparing and serving food, washing dishes, and monitoring the showers for the guests.
 
Bethlehem Emergency Sheltering is located at Christ Church UCC at 75 E Market Street, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18018.
 
Our Rotary members are passionate about providing sustainable solutions to poverty, which is why we support the Bethlehem Emergency Shelter both financially and as volunteers.
 
 
SERVING OUR COMMUNITY AND
HAVING FUN DOING IT!
 
 
 
SUSTAINABLE CAMBODIA
This January 2026, Loretta Ottinger, Fleetwood RC, and District Governor Nominee (DG 2028-29), Amy Sheller, Kutztown RC, along with our own Morning Star Rotarian, Mike Orbin travelled to Cambodia coordinated by Sustainable Cambodia and the Rotary Club of Pursat.
 
  Thank you to Amy & Loretta for sharing
their experiences for this article.
 
 
MSR Rotarian Mike Orbin
exchanging banners
with the Rotary Club of Pursat.
 
Amy Sheller, Kutztown RC
Loretta Ottinger, Fleetwood RC
 
***************************************
"If you've ever wanted to travel with purpose, connect deeply with a community and have a lot of fun...this trip is open to you. Rotary member or not." Amy Sheller
 
There are 4 upcoming trips:
 
2026: Post-Rotary Taipei Convention: Jun 19 to Jun 28
2026: Nov 7 to Nov 16
2027: Jan 23 to Feb 1
2027: Feb 20 to Mar 3 (Rotary E-Club of Global Travelers)
 
"If you’ve ever thought about traveling on a Rotary‑led trip, just do it. It will change the way you see service, partnership, and the impact we create when we show up together. Experiences like this stay with you long after you return home." Amy Sheller
 
***************************************
 
 
 
Click "Read More" to hear their experiences!
Read more...
 STATE REPRESENTATIVE SAMUELSON
 
At our January 22, 2026 meeting, Morning Star Rotary welcomed PA State Representative Steve Samuelson who serves the 135th Legislative District.  Representative Samuelson gave legislative updates and addressed community initiatives. He discussed the state budget process, highlighting challenges with delayed approvals and funding for education, mass transit, and affordable housing. Representative Samuelson shared details on various grants secured for local projects in Bethlehem, including transportation improvements and housing developments. He also explained state programs like the property tax rebate and homestead exemption, emphasizing their impact on seniors and homeowners. The discussion touched on public transit challenges and potential solutions, as well as the need for more affordable housing in the community. Representative Samuelson addressed attendees questions about state revenue sources, including natural gas extraction fees, and explored ideas for improving public perception of public transportation.
THE VOLUNTEER CHALLENGE
 
 
At our January 15, 2026 weekly meeting, Morning Star Rotary Past President, Shawn Bariana, Community Relations Manager at the Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley spoke to our members about the Volunteer Challenge, a major fundraiser organized by the Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley, where corporate teams complete sustainable projects for nonprofits between February and April. The event will feature approximately 50 teams showcasing their work at DeSales University on May 12th, with businesses paying a $250 registration fee to participate. The discussion also covered current volunteer needs in the Bethlehem area, including opportunities at organizations like Bach Choir, Cedarbrook, Hispanic Center, Historic Bethlehem Partnership, and various schools and shelters.
 
CLICK HERE to view presentation.
 
MORNING STAR ROTARY AT BES
 
   
 
ROTARIANS AT WORK...serving our community!  MSR members cooking, serving dinner. and providing showers on January 13, 2026 for the guests at Bethlehem Emergency Sheltering.  Morning Star Rotary volunteers at BES on three evenings during the winter months.
 
 
 
 
GIRLS ON THE RUN
 
At our first meeting of the new year on January 8, 2026, Morning Star Rotary welcomed Liz Fones, Executive Director of Girls on the Run Lehigh Valley and Pocono, who discussed the organization's mission to inspire girls to be joyful, healthy, and confident through a curriculum that integrates running.  Liz highlighted the declining confidence levels among girls and the increasing rates of sadness and hopelessness, emphasizing the need for programs like Girls on the Run.  She shared statistics on the program's impact on participants' confidence and mental health, as well as its focus on building healthy relationships and promoting physical activity. The presentation also covered the program's structure, including its seasonal format and reliance on volunteer coaches.
 
MSR RINGS IN THE HOLIDAYS
Our Annual Holiday Meeting is one of the most wonderful events of each Rotary Year!  This past week, the talented singers and musicians of the Liberty High School A Cappella Choir along with an Instrumental Ensemble from the LHS Grenadier Band serenaded us with holiday favorites.  Plus, the morning would not be complete without the musical magnificence of our very own Rick Santee on the accordion.  A fantastic and enjoyable time was had by both young and old!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
THE 12 DAYS OF ROTARY
Our Annual Holiday Meeting would not be complete without the singing of the "12 Days of Rotary"!
 
 
2026 CELTIC CLASSIC 5K
 
Click Picture for Information/Registration
2026 Celtic Classic 5K
September 26, 2026
BLOOD DRIVE
Meeting Responsibilities
May 21, 2026
SET-UP/BREAKDOWN
Searfoss, Jean
 
GREETER
Orbin, Michael
 
SGT @ ARMS
Metzler, Robin
 
50/50
Milet, Lynn
 
INVOCATION, PLEDGE & 4 WAY TEST
 
INTRODUCTIONS
Hartzell, Tom
 
MEETING TECHNOLOGY
Seifert, Rod
 
Flatiron Building
 
 
 
            Week of 5/21/2026
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