Stories
Please join us in congratulating Code Ninjas owner and rotary club member Tom Hsieh for being featured in the El Segundo Herald! With education as one of our areas of focus, we congratulate Tom for his outstanding efforts in promoting STEM education in El Segundo. Follow this link to the article: https://bit.ly/ESHeraldCodeNinjas |
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Veteran's BBQAre you a veteran? The El Segundo Rotary club would like to honor you with a Barbeque for Veterans on Friday, July 15th from 11:30am - 1:45pm. We welcome any volunteers who would like to participate by helping us honor our service members. For more information or to volunteer please email info@elsegundorotary.org. #honoringveterans #volunteeropportunity #volunteersneeded #elsegundorotary #elsegundo |
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July 4th Watermelon ContestDo you have a one in a melon appetite? If so, join the El Segundo Rotary for our annual Watermelon Eating Contest on Monday, July 4th. The contest will begin at 12:00 PM and prizes will be awarded to the winners in each age group! El Segundo Recreation Park (Stevenson Field And George Brett Field) 401 Sheldon Street in El Segundo |
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Quote Quest - Deadline Extended!It is not too late to join the Quote Quest 2022 fun! Join the El Segundo Rotary Club and Kiwanis Club and raise funds for the community by displaying your favorite song lyrics on your lawn! To learn more and to purchase your sign, visit our event in the link. For even more fun, join the Quote Quest 90245 Facebook group: |
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Quote Quest 2022 |
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ESHS Potatoes Robotics TeamJoin us for our weekly meeting on Thursday January 6, 2022 at noon.
~ FEATURED GUEST ~ El Segundo High School "P.O.T.A.T.O.E.S." Robotics Team. They will be discussing the meaning of POTATOES and sharing details about their latest robot designs and upcoming competitions for the team. This meeting will be held virtually. If you would like to join our meeting, please send us an email to info@elsegundorotary.org. |
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Rotary Holiday Luncheon☃️🎄Members - Please join us for our Rotary Holiday Luncheon at the California Yacht Club! Thursday, December 16th @ noon. RSVP Required; please check your emails or contact Ed Su for details. See you there! ❄️🎅
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El Segundo Holiday Parade🚙 Join us this Sunday Dec 12th at 1pm for the El Segundo Holiday Parade! This year our members are building a unique Holiday themed float and will be tossing out candy to people as they go by. Past years have earned top awards so be sure to stop by Main street to watch the float go by and cheer on our Rotary club! 🎄
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Rotary Holiday Party☃️Members - Please join us for our annual Rotary Holiday Party! Food, Dessert & Non-Alcoholic beverages provided. Please bring your favorite libation to share. And don't forget to bring a white elephant gift, (optional $20 value). Cost for this event is $45 per person. RSVP required. Bring a Sweater as Seating is Both Inside & OutSide, and it may be a chilly holiday evening!!! Covid vaccination is required to attend. ❄️
💛Special thank you to the Magid family for hosting! 💛 |
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Happy Hanukkah |
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Park Vista |
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Meeting 11/11/21On 11/11/21 we met with Joe and Winston of King's Hawaiian. They discussed the company's history and how they navigated through Covid. They also gave a vision for where they see the company going in the future. Very interesting!
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Meeting 11/4/21 - Literacy GardenOn 11/4/21 we met at Center Street School to celebrate the completion of the Literacy Garden Renovation project. This was a community service project that involved the restoration of the beautiful Literacy Garden at the Center Street School. Special thank you to Chris Powell who organized the project and to our club members and the community who helped do the work. Funding was provided by Chevron, and Rotary District 5280. |
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Meeting 10/28/21 - Upshift BreweryOn 10/28/21 we met at Upshift Brewery for our weekly meeting. We inducted new member Rayna Plummer from LAWA and heard a little bit about her background . Welcome Rayna! We also got a tour of the Brewery and learned a little bit about the beer making process. |
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Rise Against HungerRotary in Action! On 10/23/21 we participated in Rise Against Hunger, a meal packing event where we packaged over 10,000 meals for underprivileged families. These meals will be transported internationally and distributed in areas deeply affected by hunger and poverty. For Photos, please click here: https://www.elsegundorotary.org/PhotoAlbums/rise-against-hunger-2021
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Bob Hope USO Visit 2021Today we had a tour of the Bob Hope USO facility at LAX! 🇺🇸 What an amazing place for our service men and women to visit when traveling through LAX! To view photos of our tour, please click here: https://elsegundorotary.org/PhotoAlbums/uso-2021 Los Angeles International Airport is one of the world’s busiest airports, and Bob Hope USO greets and serves over 100,000 military service members and their families per year. In 2018, the USO at LAX relocated to the historic Theme Building. An estimated 2.7 million troops and military families will visit in the next 20 years, seeking a safe-haven and a touch of home at one of the world’s busiest airports. The new 7,000 square foot, state-of-the-art airport center was built to support US troops and their families for generations to come. One of only six USO centers in the world that operates 24/7 (hours currently restricted due to COVID-19), the Bob Hope USO at LAX is the flagship center and is the largest location by number of troops and families served. On busy days, the center has had more than 1,000 visitors, all weary troops and military families seeking the comforts and connection to home amidst the chaos and stress of travel. A congressionally chartered, private organization, the USO relies on the generosity of individuals, organizations and corporations to support its activities, and is powered by a family of volunteers to accomplish our mission of connection. To learn more about the USO, please visit https://bobhope.uso.org |
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Meeting 10/14/21 - Betsy ButlerOn 10/14/21 we welcomed guest speaker Betsy Butler of the California Women's Law Center. She spoke about women's issues and current policies in place and spoke about ways of helping those in need. |
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Meeting 10/7/21 - Mark HensleyOn 10/7/21 we met at the ADM for our weekly meeting. Our guest speaker was Mark Hensley, the City Attorney for the City of El Segundo. He discussed policies affecting our city and gave us a brief summary of his background in law. |
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Meeting 8/5/21On August 5th we welcomed guest speaker Robert Greene, editor for the LA Times, to our weekly meeting. We met both in person and on zoom at the Automobile Driving Museum. Raffle prizes were provided by Dean Seligman, and the lunch menu included Blimpie Sandwiches. Bio: Robert Greene is an editorial writer covering water, drought, criminal justice reform, policing, mental health and Los Angeles County government. He won the Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Writing in 2021 for work “that clearly and holistically examined the Los Angeles criminal justice system.” Greene previously was a staff writer for the L.A. Weekly and a reporter and associate editor for the Metropolitan News-Enterprise. Prior to becoming a journalist, he was an attorney in Los Angeles. He is a resident of Highland Park and a graduate of USC and Georgetown University Law Center. |
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Rotary Craft Talk 7/29/21Today we met at Upshift Brewery and heard from three of our own Rotarians: Lt. Ryan Danowitz, Jim Miller, and Dean Seligman. We learned a little bit about each person, their background and hobbies, and what they do for a living. We also heard from Chris Powell and Dean Seligman who gave us a summary of Malt Madness. Great job on all the hard work we all did to help make MM a successful event! We ended the meeting with a variety of raffle prizes. |
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Meeting 7/22/21On July 15th we heard from featured guest speaker Ed Lynch, founder and director of Mychal's Learning Place. Founded in 2002 as a social/recreational after school program for youth with developmental disabilities. In 2013 they added an adult program that is focused on independent living skills, job training and employment. More recently, they've also added two social enterprises, Mychal's Bakery and Coffee and Mychal's Prints, a t-shirt printing and embroidery business. These new divisions were created to help with job training and employment, community awareness while also being a source of revenue for Mychal's Learning Place. |
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Rotary Craft Talk 7/15/21On July 15th we met at the ADM for our weekly meeting and heard from Rotarians Tom Hsieh, Carolyne Smigelski, and Marisol Herrera.
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Val's Last MeetingOn 6/24/21 we had our last meeting under Val's leadership at Upshift Brewery. We congratulated our 2021 Rotarian Scholarship winners and presented them with checks: Cooper Stolnack 1st Place $4000, Trinity Sansalin Parascandola 2nd Place $2000, Thomas Davies 3rd Place $1000. We also gave recognition to several rotarians for their service to our club and inducted our newest member Ryan Danowitz of El Segundo PD. We also heard from the owner of Upshift brewery and learned a little about the buildings history and how Upshift found its home in El Segundo. |
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Meeting 6/3/21This week we visited the historic Old Town Music Hall for a tour of the facility. http://www.oldtownmusichall.org We heard from James Moll, one of the owners and Edward Torres, pipe organist. We were treated to a special private demonstration of the mighty Wurlitzer pipe organ and a short clip of a silent movie with live organ music. What an amazing meeting! |
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Meeting 5/27/21~ FEATURED SPEAKER ~ Millicent Hill, founder of Mama Hill's Help. She gave us an update on her projects since Covid started. Millicent Hill is a retired school teacher with LAUSD. Over her 45-year career as an award-winning educator, poet, and activist, Millicent has changed the lives of thousands of youngsters through her innovative teaching style. Today she and her small staff cover an array of issues within the core curricula-from anger management to teen pregnancy-as most of her youngsters are living under the cloud of violence, grief, abandonment or abuse, which all too often impedes their ability to learn. |
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Camp Pendelton DonationsCamp Pendleton Collection Weekend: March 13-14, 2021
The previous Camp Pendleton Collection Drives were such a success we have decided to do it again! This time, there will be FOUR collection sites – one in Torrance, one in Studio City, and new locations in Bellflower and Culver City. Please email info@elsegundorotary.org for delivery addresses and for more information. Thank you for your support! #elsegundorotary, #gundorotary, #camppendeltondonations, #rotary5280, #rotarycares |
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Meeting 3/4/21On 3/4, we welcomed our very own Rotarian Bill Whalan, the chief of police for El Segundo. He discussed community crime rates for 2020 and went over some programs to help protect our city. |
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Meeting 1/28/21On 1/28/21 We welcomed Stephanie Cuevas, Senior Government Affairs Representative and Director Rob Kastherman of the Water Replenishment District. The Water Replenishment District of Southern California (WRD) is the largest groundwater agency in the State of California, managing and protecting local groundwater resources for over four million residents. WRD's service area covers a 420-square-mile region of southern Los Angeles County, the most populated county in the United States. The 43 cities in the service area, including a portion of the City of Los Angeles, use about 250,000 acre-feet (82 billion gallons) of groundwater annually which accounts for approximately half of the region's water supply. WRD ensures that a reliable supply of high quality groundwater is available through the use of recycled water and storm water capture. WRD is responsible for monitoring and testing groundwater throughout the region.
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Camp Pendleton DonationsOur club came together with the community and other Rotary clubs to make another generous donation to the families of Camp Pendleton. Items included diapers, toys, food, clothes, gift cards, books, household items, beanie babies, shoes, electronics, dog food, and more. A Big THANK YOU to everyone that donated; your generosity is sincerely appreciated! 💖
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Halloween House Decorating Contest🎃 2020 HALLOWEEN HOUSE DECORATING CONTEST 👻
🕷️ Scare us with a picture of your Spooky Home! 🕸️ CLICK HERE: https://padlet.com/kellyami/RotaryHouseDecorating Prizes awarded for: • Best ROOKIE Entry: This category includes entrants who have never participated in the contest before. • Scariest: Entries will be judged on overall sense of fright! • Silliest: Entries will be judged on overall sense of silly! • Grand Champion: This category is decided by the judges. • Best Effects: This category includes special effects, including lights and mechanical effects to surprise and entertain everyone! • Best Overall Theme: Show us a Halloween-based theme that focuses on a spooky topic or genre! |
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Polio Plus Raffle WinnersTHANK YOU TO ALL WHO PARTICIPATED IN OUR POLIO PLUS FUNDRAISING RAFFLE AND CELEBRATED WORLD POLIO DAY WITH US! Through the generous contributions from our community, we have made a positive impact in our fight to end Polio across the world. Congratulations to our winners: Fleming's Gift Certificate - Alvaro Cortes, Sausal Gift Certificate - Elyse Beardsley, Chevron Gas Card - Carmela Raack, Magic and Comedy Club tickets - Margaret McCanless. Thank you everyone for your support! YOU make a difference!!!
If you would like to continue to help our cause, please visit https://www.endpolio.org |
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World Polio Day RaffleHELP END POLIO The Rotary Club of El Segundo is holding a virtual raffle in honor of World Polio Day - October 24th. Please consider donating or participating in the virtual raffle, simply click the link to go to our raffle. Together we can end polio, a vaccine-preventable disease! |
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August Birthdays & AnniversariesHAPPY BIRTHDAY! Michael Bell - Aug 09 Justin Mularz - Aug 13 Julie Stolnack - Aug 17 Judith Wilson - Aug 17 Rebecca Haynes - Aug 25 HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! Susan & Zeke Aceves - Aug 02 2017 - 3 years Rebecca & Tom Bergin - Aug 07 2004 - 16 years Dickie Van Breene & Mark Burton - Aug 14 2002 - 18 years Julie & Phill Stolnack - Aug 18 1990 - 30 years Denny & Jo-Anne McDonough - Aug 22 1972 - 48 years HAPPY ROTARY ANNIVERSARY! Elyse Beardsley - 32 years - Aug 01 1988 Michele A. Rogers - 20 years - Aug 01 2000 Gary Wilson - 30 years - Aug 01 1990 James McLees - 14 years - Aug 27 2006 Dean Seligman - 11 years - Aug 27 2009 |
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Camp Pendleton DonationsDid you know there are over 70,000 Marines at Camp Pendleton? Did you know more than 160 babies are born to the Marine families each month? Did you know there are 10,000 children under the age of 5? Many of the Marines are deployed when their babies are born and family and friends may not be nearby. With very low income, most do not have all they need for newborns and small children, or basic items to set up an apartment. The Rotary Clubs in District 5280 have been very generous to our Marines and it is that time again for us to donate items for this program. Here is a photo of our club's contribution to the Marines. These donations were received from our community and from our El Segundo Rotarians. We hope these items bring joy and relief to the wonderful families of our service men and women. Thank you to everyone who donated! ...and a big Thank YOU to our amazing service men and women out there. ... We appreciate you! |
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The Year of Eloise! 2019-2020 |
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2020 Scholarship Winners!Congratulations to Samantha and Amanda, winners of the El Segundo Rotary Scholarship contest! Thank you for volunteering your time to help our community.
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Baseball Banners for High School SeniorsOn May 6th Maura and Eloise delivered beautiful baseball banners to the graduating seniors on the the El Segundo High School Varsity Baseball Team. This wonderful gift from our Rotary club thrilled the graduates and their families. |
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COVID-19 Senior OutreachAre you an El Segundo senior who needs help shopping for basic necessities? You are not alone! There are many people within our community that are currently unable to go shopping because they are isolated at home due to the restrictions imposed by our government to help control the spread of the Coronavirus outbreak. WE ARE HERE TO HELP YOU! Please visit our COVID-19 Senior Outreach page for details and to learn how to get assistance. Interested in VOLUNTEERING to help? Please fill out the form here: https://forms.gle/RXwue123gpGhFrzn6 |
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Event UpdatesThe following Rotary sponsored events have been rescheduled or cancelled: Malt Madness - March 27, 2020 - RESCHEDULED Mayor's Good Friday Breakfast - April 10, 2020 - CANCELLED The Malt Madness event has been rescheduled to June 26, 2020. Due to current health concerns, our upcoming Malt Madness Beer and Wine Festival has been RESCHEDULED to Friday, June 26, 2020 from 6-10pm at the Automobile Driving Museum. We care deeply about our community and want to do the right thing for the safety and wellbeing of everyone. Malt Madness strengthens our community through fundraising that is given back to worthy causes (such as education and fighting disease). But it goes beyond fundraising. We also help small businesses by raising awareness of their products. We help professionals by providing a networking opportunity for them to connect on a local level. And we help friends by providing a space to share smiles and laughter. This is a wonderful event. But our first priority is health. Stay healthy and we will see you in June!
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March Birthdays and AnniversariesHappy Birthday! Dina Ferguson - Mar 03 Debra-Lynne Terrill - Mar 12 Carolyne Johnson - Mar 18 Ariel Ayaay - Mar 23 Shirley Hoffman - Mar 25 Michele A. Rogers - Mar 28 |
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Meeting 3/5/20On 3/5/20 we heard from LAWA’s Gaby Pacheco and Stephanie Sampson who gave us an update on what’s happening at LAX. We were also excited to welcome back long time Rotarian Ted Tokunow! We are all glad to see that he is feeling better and doing well. Another great meeting! |
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Pageant of the Arts 2020Great meeting with our Pageant of the Arts winners! Congratulations to our winners as follows:
Vocal - Allison Hand Dance - Scarlett Long Instrumental - 1st Cameron Johnson, 2nd Kathryn Muyers, 3rd Lea Jacobson Art - 1st Aliya Rafei, 2nd Max Sexton, 3rd Rachel Lallemand |
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Meeting 2/20/20This meeting we had speakers Jim McClees and Marisol Herrera. Jim is an accountant and gave us an update on the most recent tax laws. Marisol of the Automobile Driving Museum gave a craft talk and told us a little bit about herself. |
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Meeting 2/13/20Great Valentines meeting with speaker Heike Fallon on the topic of health and fitness coaching. We were also entertained by the amazing Walkerettes of the Women’s club. 👯♀️ And added bonus - Carolyne Johnson, in her last celebration as a single lady for Valentines before getting married to Owen Smigelski in April, she found her Rotary Valentine in Ed Su as determined by a match of “would you ever”. Happy Valentines! |
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PETS 2020This weekend, our rotary president elect for 2020-2021, Valerie Smith, attended the PETS educational training program. It was a great opportunity to meet other presidents and learn more about club leadership! |
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Meeting 2/6/2020Today’s speaker was new Rotary member Andrea Lange who spoke about human trafficking. We also heard from Shiela Fowler who gave a brief craft talk.
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Meeting 1/30/2020Great meeting today with Aaron Corkin of El Segundo PD. We learned a little about him and a lot about the Community Police Academy program that’s being taught by the El Segundo Police Department. This program gives residents and community members the rare opportunity to learn about the different topics of police work, their internal structure, and learn a few basic tactics for safety, detective work, and human restraint.
We also welcomed a few members of the high school Interact club to our meeting and saw a short video of Mr. Beasley, a Rotarian himself, honoring his granddaughter Shelby with a Paul Harris Fellow award. |
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Meeting 1/23/2020Another great meeting thanks to Elizabeth Bloom and her passionate talk about the challenges of Dyslexia. We learned about the difficulties that one faces when coping with this condition. We also heard from Rotarian Dave Riemann who told us a little bit about himself.
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Meeting 1/16/2020Today, Miranda presented her life story via an original poem. Quite amazing! Also, Dennis gave us an overview of his professional experience with human contact and interaction which provided unique insights into improving business and life. |
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Meeting 1/9/2020First meeting of 2020! Today we heard a little about the Rotary Rose Parade float which won the Tournament Volunteers award! Great job for participating and helping with the build - Carolyne Johnson, Ed Su, Sean Story, Rebecca Bergen, Eloise Mendez, Andrea Lange, and Fidelmar Coronel! Big shout out to Val Smith for watching Laura for Rebecca.
Our speaker was Brady Connell, the president of the Playa-Venice Rotary club and executive producer of Extreme Makeover - Home Edition on HGTV. We learned a lot about how the program selects candidates and the processes involved in creating a successful makeover. So interesting and what a wonder way to give back to the community! |
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Rose Parade Float BuildingWinner! Rose Parade Tournament Volunteer Award for Most Outstanding display of floral presentation of the Rose Parade Theme "The Power Of Hope" among floats under 35 feet. What an amazing evening working on the Rotary Rose Parade Float Committee. Roses, roses, and more roses, every color possible and such beautiful decor and details on all the floats - what incredible works of art. This years theme is Hope Connects the World. A penguin flies across the nations of the world in a demonstration of hope connecting us all. It’s a wonderful and inspiring message that’s meant to bring peace and bridge the gap between mankind. Special thank you to Eloise, Sean, Andrea, Carolyne, Rebecca, Fidelmar and Ed for your hard work and participation. 🐧🌷💐🌹❄️
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Holiday Luncheon at Marina Yacht ClubOn December 19, 2019 we met at the Marina Yacht Club for our annual Holiday Luncheon with a Secret Santa gift exchange. Great food, awesome company, and good gifts all made for a fun afternoon!
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Ed and Tom's Trip to China - the Peach FoundationThe Peach Foundation helps underpriveledged children in China thrive and move beyond poverty. El Segundo Rotary members Tom Forsythe and Edward Su help their cause with their involvement in the foundation and in a recent visit. Here is a brief video on their November 2019 trip to China. |
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Meeting 12/12/19Today we inducted Nancy Jacobson into our club. Welcome Nancy! Justin Mularz and Owen Smigelski earned their blue badges today as well. Great job guys! We heard from Ruth Akumbu who is the guardian for Jaspa Awomah. She is looking for volunteers to work at the Plant A Seed Casino Night Fundraiser coming up in February. Funds will go towards helping Jaspa through college. Ed Su and Tom Forsythe were the speakers today; they told us about their trip to China and their work with the Peach Foundation.
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Guatemala Literacy ProjectThe Rotary Club of Ohio Pathways is sponsoring a Guatemala Literacy Project (GLP) led by Joe Berninger. They are still in great need of Rotarians to serve with the GLP team on their February service trips to Guatemala. Their educational programs currently serve more than 50,000 impoverished children. Please consider joining one of the following volunteer trips to Guatemala: Feb 1-9, 2020 or Feb 18-23, 2020. They hope to recruit fellow rotarians to help deliver textbooks, inaugurate computer centers, and much more. For more information please CLICK HERE to visit the project's website. To submit an application, please CLICK HERE. Please email Joe Berninger (joe@guatemalaliteracy.org) if you have any questions or comments. |
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Rotary Float 2019Every year our Rotary club builds a float for the annual El Segundo Holiday Parade. This year's theme was "Toyland". Our club built a "Misfit Toy" Charlie in the Box character float based on the famous "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and the Island of the Misfit Toys" classic animated movie. Thank you to Ronny Sanchez, Jeff Donahue, Melissa and Randy Albers for the design and build of the float! Thank you to all the Rotarians and friends who also helped out. Great job!!
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Holiday Party 2019The Holidays are here! This year we had an amazing dinner and cocktail hour at Second City Bistro followed by a white elephant gift exchange at Chris Powell's house. What a fun evening it was! Thank you Gilda Dyckman for planning, and thank you Chris for hosting us.
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Park Vista LuncheonOne of our favorite annual traditions is the Park Vista Senior Center lunch! We enjoyed great food, fun and games, and beautiful singing. Thanks so much to the El Segundo High School Choir for performing, to the El Segundo Rotaract group for helping us serve food, and to all the residents of Park Vista for joining us for lunch. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
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Happy Thanksgiving!We are thankful for our Rotary family and friends. Happy Thanksgiving!
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Upshift BreweryGreat meeting at Upshift Brewing Company! It was nice to learn about its history and a little bit about what's behind the name.
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Holiday Dinner PartyThe Rotary Holiday Party will be held on Dec 7th at Second City Bistro with White Elephant Gift Exchange taking place at Chris Powell's house immediately afterward. Please RSVP by Dec 3rd to Gilda Dyckman. For address and details please click here.
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LAX Bob Hope USOLast week we welcomed Jill Villalpando, Director of LAX Bob Hope USO to our meeting in honor of Veterans Day. We also learned a lot about our own member Rebecca Bergin!
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LA World Airports - Updates and InformationGreat meeting on 11/7/19 with LA World Airports Assistant Police Chief Dan Llorens. Thank you for updating us with information on the new terminal B pickup area!
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Who Killed the Butler?Our meeting on Halloween included a Murder Mystery Game of "Who Killed the Butler". Frank Glynn played the role of butler who died suddenly causing the contents of a nearby table to go flying as he himself fell dramatically to the floor. Several alarmed members jumped up to assist at which point we realized this was part of the murder mystery. We went through a list of 10 or so possible killers, all played by members, and after several rounds of voting, we discovered the killer, who was expertly played by Dickie Van Breen. Thank you Marsha for putting this together! It was a fun meeting. |
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Robotics Club MeetingOn 10/24 we welcomed the very talented members of the Robotics Club of ESHS. The P.O.T.A.T.O.E.S - People Of Tomorrow Applying Their Outstanding Engineering Skills - demonstrated the operation of several different robots. Such amazing talent and such cool robots! |
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Teacher Mini GrantsEl Segundo Rotary Club awarded a total of $7,500 in mini-grants to 50 wonderful teachers in the El Segundo School District. These grants allow teachers to buy teaching supplies that improve the quality of education. Examples of items the teachers purchase with these grants include sheet music and metronomes, calculators, counting blocks, timers, privacy dividers, art supplies, books, and subscriptions to online educational programs. We could not do this without the support of our community. Thank you to our teachers, and thank you to our supporters for attending our (many) events, buying our raffle tickets (and rubber duckies) and donating to our club.
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Rise Against HungerOn 10/12/19, the ES Rotary packed food for Rise Against Hunger, a humanitarian organization that distributes food and life-changing aid to the world’s most vulnerable. Many people showed up to volunteer and we packed 10,000 meals to help those in need. Image not loading? Click here to view on YouTube. |
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Fire Safety Poster ContestA huge CONGRATULATIONS to the winners of the 2019 Fire Prevention Week Poster Contest! El Segundo Rotary is proud to have supported this wonderful program for over 70 years in partnership with our firefighter heroes here in El Segundo! This year's theme is: Not all Heroes Wear Capes!
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Haunted House ConstructionWhat a great build day at Twisted Tales Haunted House!!! Thank you to our amazing volunteer crew. Here’s a few sneak peek images behind the spooky scenes! The haunted house opens to the public October 18! We can’t wait to see everyone there! |
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Meeting 10/3/19Today we welcomed Dr. Wen Chen to our weekly meeting. She brought El Segundo resident Leno Szeto as her guest. Dr. Chen is an active advocate for human rights in China. John Stabile brought raffle prizes and gave us a brief craft talk. |
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Rotary Fellowship at Gilda'sWhat a great evening spending time with fellow Rotary members! We met at Gilda's beautiful home and BBQ'd, had smores, and enjoyed her amazing pool. The kids loved the pool slide and are even now still asking their parents to buy one for their grandma's pool. LOL All in all we had a great time socializing over dinner and cocktails. |
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Meeting 9/26/19This week, we welcomed Jose Mendez as our speaker. Jose shared about his experience growing up at Kurn Hattin home for children. He reminded us to be thankful for the things we have- like loving families, vacations, and even access to food in the refrigerator whenever we are hungry. Important message. Thank you Jose!! Rebecca Haynes also gave us a member spotlight- including highlighting her training from the FBI! Reminder that a sign up sheet for Twisted Tales Haunted House ticket sales and crowd assistance will be coming! We are getting very excited!! |
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Twisted Tales Haunted HouseTwisted Tales Haunted House event is coming up! This event runs Oct 17-Oct 31. Hosted by ES Rotary, ES Parks & Rec, and the ES Masonic Lodge. Please visit our event page for details. |
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Meeting 9/12/19This week we welcomed Rotarians Kevin Smith and Sandy Jacobs to our meeting. Kevin spoke about our club's relationship with our sister city Guaymas in Mexico. Sandy gave us a short talk about her life story and provided a joke and the raffle prizes. |
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Meeting 9/5/19This week we welcomed Brenda Jaramillo of the Latinos Unidos Rotary Club who discussed the Humanitarian project for this year's District trip to Oaxaca, Mexico. This trip will take place on Feb 26, 2020 - March 6, 2020. This year they selected 17 humanitarian projects that require assistance from Rotary members as part of Rotary International’s areas of focus. Sonia Rodriguez brought raffle prizes, a joke and presented a short craft talk.
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Meeting 8/29/19This meeting we welcomed Dr. Walavan Sivakumar, Director of Neurosurgery at the Pacific Neuroscience Institute. He brought us information about the new stroke center at the Little Company of Mary Medical Center. This facility will be the leading stroke center for the entire South Bay region and beyond. Julie Stolnac brought raffle prizes, a joke and a short craft talk. |
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Meeting 8/22/19Last week we welcomed Rotary District 5280 governor Melody St. John to our meeting. Thank you for visiting our club! Thank you Elyse Beardsley for the fun little skit to highlight Melody's involvement with the US train tour for International students. Congratulations to Cort (the grandson of members Judith and Roger Wilson) for becoming a Paul Harris Fellow! |
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Rotary & PolioRotary has been working to eradicate polio for more than 30 years. Our goal of ridding the world of this disease is closer than ever. As a founding partner of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, we've reduced polio cases by 99.9 percent since our first project to vaccinate children in the Philippines in 1979. We've helped immunize more than 2.5 billion children in 122 countries. So far, Rotary has contributed more than $1.8 billion toward eradicating the disease worldwide. Today, polio remains endemic only in Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Pakistan. But it’s crucial to continue working to keep other countries polio-free. If all eradication efforts stopped today, within 10 years, polio could paralyze as many as 200,000 children each year. How can you help? Click the links below to donate or visit endpolio.org to learn more. |
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Rotary & Polio, Long VideoRotary & Polio - 15 minute video
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Movie in the Park 2019 SPONSORSThank you to all the Movie in the Park sponsors! We could not do this event without you! This event takes a village - and we are so glad to have so much support from our wonderful business and residential community. |
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Meeting 7/25/19Today’s meeting started as usual – with friendly hellos followed by the pledge of allegiance. Ron Sanchez gave a brief craft talk about creating custom apparel for many of our local schools and businesses. He also reminded us of his history playing hockey, though he laughed when asked if he played professionally. His favorite team is the Red Wings. A friendly fight ensued between Dean and Ron after Ron claimed that he also likes the Kings. The fight settled on Ron admitting that “tolerating” the Kings is more accurate. Maura Slavens from Kinecta earned her blue badge! Congrats!! Our speaker was Scott Houston from West Basin Water District. We all know water is an important topic in Los Angeles. Scott helpfully explained many things we can do to conserve our water, including rain barrels and grass replacement. West Basin is working on many plans to ensure we always have access to water. Announcements: Lots of tickets have already sold for movie in the park, but keep them coming! We are expecting a great crowd. The district breakfast is coming up on August 13th at the Proud Bird restaurant. We have 13 people signed up so far – which Len says is the biggest group we’ve had attend a District Breakfast since he became a member many moons ago. More are welcome! |
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4th of July 20194th of July was a huge success for the Rotary club! The Watermelon Contest was MC'd by one of our newest members Owen Smigelski who led the event through 8 categories of competition. Prizes were awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place finishers and there was more than enough watermelon to go around for everyone. The Snack Bar was another big winner with its sale of churros, popcorn, drinks and more. So many thanks go to Valerie for making the event not only successful but also profitable! Thank you to all the wonderful members who participated!
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Wayne's World 2018-2019Heres a recap of the 2018-2019 year for our club. Big thank you to Rebecca Bergin for producing this. Great job! |
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Demotion PartyWhat a great night at Wayne's Demotion party! Hosted by the club's past presidents and held at the Automobile Driving Museum. Congratulations to the following Rotarians for their efforts this past year: Gilda Dyckman - Paul Harris Foundation Award Dean Seligman - Rotarian of the Year, for his work on Malt Madness Elyse Beardsley - Rotarian of the Year, for her work with Interact Club and RYLA Certificates of Appreciation went to Elyse Beardsley, Tom Forsythe, and Len Bonilla for stepping in as President during Wayne's back surgery Distinguished Service Awards went to Ted Tokunow for 38 years of service, and Marisol Rios for her efforts in Malt Madness. A special THANK YOU goes to Wayne Mularz and all the board members who served in his term. We appreciate your hard work and dedication to our club. We welcome incoming ES Rotary President, Eloise Mendez and her new board members who will lead the 2019-2020 term. Its going to be an awesome year! |
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Happy Hour at FlemingsThis week a few Rotarians met up at Fleming's Steak House in El Segundo for happy hour. What a great restaurant! Big thank you to Miranda Bopp for reserving a spot for us on the patio.
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4th of July Watermelon Eating ContestStop by Rec Park for a little 4th of July fun! El Segundo Rotary will be hosting a timed watermelon eating contest featuring prizes for first, second and third places for the following divisions: Boys - Ages 6-8, Girls - Ages 6-8 Boys - Ages 9-11, Girls - Ages 9-11 Boys - Ages 12-15, Girls - Ages 12-15 Men - Ages 16 and up, Women - Ages 16 and up
Come join us for a watermelon treat and celebrate the 4th! |
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Movie in the Park 2019Get ready for Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse at the 22nd annual Movie in the Park! When: August 3, 2019, Gates open at 4pm Where: Chevron Park We are looking for Event Sponsors! Do you know anyone who might be interested in promoting their name, their business or their organization? Then please CLICK HERE for Sponsorship Opportunities! Don't miss this chance to get in front of an audience of more than 40,000 individuals through online advertising via our website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, email marketing, and of course in person at the event!
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Community Services Award LuncheonCongratulations to the winners of our El Segundo Community Service Awards! El Segundo Employee of the Year Kristina Kora-Beckman of the El Segundo Library Presented by Melissa McCollum, Library Director El Segundo Police Officer of the Year Kurt Rasmusson, Detective the El Segundo Police Department Presented by Bill Whalen, Police Chief El Segundo Firefighter of the Year Ryan Allee, Captain at the El Segundo Fire Department Presented by Christopher Donovan, Fire Chief El Segundo Unified School District Teacher of the Year Carley Finkel, Teacher at El Segundo Middle School Presented by Ali Rabiei, Principal El Segundo Unified School District Classified Employee of the Year Araceli Reyes of Richmond Street Elementary School Presented by Dr Alice Lee, Principal |
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El Segundo Beach Clean-upWe were at the 19th Annual Beach Clean-up! This event was held on 6/8/19 and was sponsored by El Segundo Power LLC, El Segundo Kiwanis & Ed Foundation. We had fun cleaning up the beach and enjoyed the reception and lunch that followed. Great event and a great way to give back to our wonderful community!
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Mayor's Good Friday Breakfast 2019The 2019 Mayor's Good Friday Breakfast is coming soon! Hope to see you there!
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Malt Madness ReviewOur first annual Malt Madness Beer and Wine Festival on March 29, 2019 was a huge success. Thanks to everyone for participating, sponsoring, and attending!
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Malt Madness is Coming!Malt Madness Beer and Wine Festival is coming on March 29th! We have some amazing beer and wine vendors participating including El Segundo Brewing, Common Space, Los Angeles Ale Works, Angel City Brewery. Scholb Premium Ales, Brewyard and more! Get your tickets before they sell out! Click here for tickets: https://www.automobiledrivingmuseum.org/event/maltmadness/
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Park Vista Luncheon |
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6 Causes |
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Fire Safety Poster ContestFor over 50 years, El Segundo Rotary Club has been working with the El Segundo Fire Department to prevent fires. Fire Marshal James Carver led this year's event, reminding families to be prepared in the event of fire, because fires can happen anywhere. He encouraged families to install and check smoke alarms and to always have a family fire escape plan (and to practice the plan). Many thanks to our event sponsors, Big 5 Sporting Goods, Banner Stationers, and Studio Printing for your support! Also a huge THANK YOU to all the students who participated in the fire poster contest. Your participation helps us spread the word about fire safety!
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Happy Halloween 2018 |
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Backpacks for Lawndale SchoolsEach year, El Segundo and Lawndale Rotarians partner up to pack hundreds of backpacks with school supplies for the Lawndale School District!
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2018 Rotary Baking Contest!!!!Let's bring some classic baking to the Richmond Street Fair! All entries must be dropped off for judging on Thursday, September 20th - click below for full details or download the baking contest information in the Club Info section of this webpage. Thank you and Good Luck! See you at the fair! |
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Movie in the Park 2018 |
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Community Service Awards 2018 |
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El Segundo Restaurant GameJust for a little extra fun, El Segundo Rotarians and friends decided to dine at EVERY restaurant in El Segundo in a March Madness-Style bracket showdown. The game started in September 2017 with 131 restaurants. Participants were assigned to 2 restaurants per month, with their favorite moving on to the next round. Over the next 8 months, Rotarians on secret dining missions enjoyed dining at El Segundo restaurants old and new! We are proud to announce Sausal as our overall winner!
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3rd Annual Rubber Ducky Adoption |
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2018 Good Friday Breakfast |
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2018 Good Friday Breakfast |
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Rise Against Hunger |
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2018 Mayor's Good Friday Breakfast |
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Honoring Dick Van Vranken, Rotarian, Mayor, and longtime resident |
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Did you know? |
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Movie in the Park: Moana! |
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Lawndale Schools Backpack Project 2017 |
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4th of July Watermelon Eating Contest |
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Announcing Movie in the Park 2017: Moana! |
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Rubber Ducky Adoption Day May 6, 2017 |
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19th Annual Movie in the Park |
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District Breakfast October 20, 2015 |
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El Segundo Teacher Mini GrantsRotary Club of El Segundo
2015 Teacher Mini-Grants
El Segundo Unified School District
Teacher Mini-Grants can be used for anything the teacher, counselor, or administrator needs to enhance students’ education (including supplies, field trips, workshops, student incentives, projects, books, technology, etc.,) not provided for under current budgetary restrictions.
Click on Link at the top of the page to Download Application
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Movie In the Park |
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2015 Community Service Awards |
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2nd Annual Beer& Wine Festival |
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2014 Holiday Lunch Park Vista Senior Apartments |
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Lawndale School District Backpack DonationThe El Segundo Rotary Club donated 200 backpacks to the Lawndale Unified School District for distribution to needy students. We also purchased school supplies and filled the backpacks so the students would be ready for the first day of school.
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Movie in The Park |
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El Segundo Rotary Poker Tournament |
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Celebrate those who serve the CityThe Meeting
Our annual gathering to honor our towns finest took place in a typically orderly fashion starting with our soon to be ex-President Len Bonilla. He quickly call the meeting to order and introduced our dignitaries and there were many there to either get an award, give an award, celebrate the giving and getting of a reward, or get a free meal.
He introduced some of our own leaders in the room lead by Fire Chief Kevin Smith, and the Lady in Red, Laura Gabel. Kevin is always great at this event and I enjoy the playful banter between himself and our Chief of Police.
Laura was exquisite. We don't get a chance to see her run a meeting, unless we go to the School Board meetings. She is the President. She is usually part of our good nature d banter in our Rotary meetings -- just having fun with the rest of us kids. But, she put on her business hat and ran the meeting and did a great job. Nice going Laura.
So who was there. First of all the Honorees. The U.S. Postal Employee of the Year was Brandon Jones. More on Brandon later.
The Firefighter of the Year was Kenneth Schultz. Kevin gave him a great atta boy speech and then he got to walk through dignitary row and received thanks and certificates to put on his wall, and remember when he is old and tired, yet still proud that someone, some group, took the time to say … Thanks.
The Police Officer of the Year was Luke Muir. He was there with his young wife and his boss. Hard to believe he was a cop. He had humility written all over him. He was cool.
Teacher of the Year was introduced by our Substitute Principle. She was a graduate of Vasser, had lots of credentialed and looked very smart.
Our Mayor was there, the Mayor pro tem, Councilman Atkinson, families of the honorees, and someone representing each of our government agencies. They do this all the time, and know each other well. It was a nice day.
My favorite part was Brandon Jones who seems to be the perfect employee. He was so perfect that this would be his last month in the South Bay, he was being promoted and going to the Beverly Hills Branch. He attributed his success to his dads being a great role model and coach and his dad spoke briefly on what a great son he had. His son was going to be the best man in his upcoming wedding. It was touching.
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Community Service Day |
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Be Careful What You ThinkRotary Bulletin of May 8, 2014 “Be Careful What You Think” by Gary Wilson, Bulletin Editor
The Meeting
The meeting was fairly typical for Len. He started on time, worked off “The Spread Sheet”, had a pledge and some words of wisdom which I forget right now. We had a full house again and there was the usual good natured banter with a little fining by the best finemaster….Joe. He is very good at that and should have a TV show called “Judge Joe”.
Nancy made the front page of the El Segundo Herald and she was fined. Fining Elyse is always fun. Joe further commented that he had a bet of sorts with Shannon who had some kids who were going to attend RYLA. Shannon was so sure that here kids would not enjoy it and told Joe that if they did, she would give him (Rotary) $100. She gave Joe the check and all clapped and smiled at her honesty and generosity. I think Joe may have fined her too. She laughed. Have you ever seen Shannon not “up”. A very nice trait Shannon, its infectious on those around you and thanks.
Len told us that the club donated $1000 to the Floyd Carr Scholarship and that is a very nice way to remember our recently lost friend. His name goes on and so does he.
Jim McLees told a joke. I think he said that he had two. One for the adults and one for the kids. Since there was kids in the room I thought he would pick that one. I was wrong, or I would have hated to hear the “Adult” one. Jim goes under the heading with Joe and Elyse of “Never having an unspoken thought”. Actually, you don’t have to say everything on your mind. You are encouraged not to. But I am sure he will redeem himself and put on those Eagle Scout pants and tell a very nice joke. Right Jim?
The Program -- Carl the Mentalist
Most of us that were at this program would say that it was the best in a long time. This guy was great. Funny and gifted from the Magic Castle. He was out of the “Hypnotist and Magic School” way of doing things and combined both with excellent humor and timing. Fun and funny and could laugh at himself as well.
I can’t even begin to tell you all the things he could do from predicting what numbers someone on the other end of the room would roll on a dice, see the number and show no one, and he would tell you what it was.
He had Kevin think of someone and right the name down, and he figured out what the name was. If Kevin had picked the name “Jackie Johnson, weather girl”, we all would figure that out. Instead he went with a different name and Carl the Mentalist got it right.
He did that with other’s in the room and never missed once, except when my ticket was drawn to pick the playing cards for the cash. Of course I asked him to pick the card, and that was his first and only miss for the day. Oh well.
Lets bring him back next year.
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“Wiseburn Comes a callin”Rotary Meeting of 4-24-2014 “Wiseburn Comes a callin” by Gary Wilson, Bulletin Editor.
The Meeting
Full house for Len. Not sure why, it must be his inspirational messages. Lots of visitors from afar. Joe had a long time Rotary Friend come in for Joe and Elyse’s RYLA show. This guy was right out of Central Casting. Daddy Warbucks of Little Orphan Annie comes to mind -- although more avuncular. In looking at him from afar it appeared he had a birthmark on his bald head. It was not a birthmark, it was a Rotary logo tattoo. I am old). 28 years ago he stayed at the Hacienda and met Joe. This guy is cool (cool is an old saying ... I am old). His voice matched his appearance and he boomed a big hello. He was there to go to RYLA and I can’t wait to hear how and what he did. He would be a program in and of himself…all of him. Joe, tell us more about him when you have time.
Dean announced that the District Assembly is May 10. Everyone can go, it is a great day to see what Rotary is all about and if you are an incoming officer you should go.
Councilman Dave Atkins attended.
We had the usual exchange of clip boards, circulation of spread sheets, exchanges of cash etc.
Tom told another great joke…he does have the knack.
Joe fined Laura and she was on the front page holding a $200,000 check from our Great Neighbor – Chevron. It was for the schools.
He fined Julie Stolnack for going to Paris.
Becky and Robin got fined for not bringing magazines. He thanked them for nothing.
He fined Bill Mason for a huge box of magazines that they found in his garage. Hopefully some of them were suitable for kids
He fined Elyse for having a commercial on TV. She is big time now.
Sherry Hughs (a former Rotarian) attended who is his daughters God mother and provides the shirts for RYLA. She was an excellent Rotarian and I wish she would return.
Dick recognized Joe for the Great Job he did at the Good Friday’s breakfast. He was (is) great at that, and many things.
It was Shannon’s birthday and she had lots of announcements about the Ed Foundation and fund raising activity.
Elyse, June 6 fund raiser at the Comedy and Magic Club
Michelle announced that Revlon Walk for cancer is coming up and she could use some financial help. You can put it on your bill, or send her an email and she will send you a link to the web page and you can donate that way.
The Program (Chris Jones and Tom Johnstone, Super Intendent)
Tom is a 14 year Rotarian himself.
We received a nice presentation of the Wiseburn District, it’s history and it’s plans. They are moving to El Segundo and will be taking over an old Aerospace building on Douglas. There is a pool in the mix that sealed the deal.
For those of you that don’t know, there has been some controversy over the move from the Centinela School District to El Segundo. Not sure if I am qualified to write about that here (or anywhere), but here are a few links one might want to follow in their research. I think it best you go there rather than listen to me.
Link 1 Daily Breeze Article
Link 2 Wiseburn Web Page
Link 3 Wikipedia Information
Link 4 Recent Salary Scandal
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Strong Women Reach OutThe Meeting
Mari brought an associate who was at one time a Rotarian,
Kevin Introduced a Rotarian Visitor Chuck Perlman from the Culver City Club. We love Chuck and see him quite a bit.
Melissa told a great joke, making fun of the Irish. It was a joke about telling a joke, and it was told very well. I loved #94, Great Joke and I laugh thinking about it. It was much better than #92. You had to be there.
We received a thank you card from Julia’s daughter thanking us for Julia’s celebration of life. She indicated we “captured her mother’s essence”, and we did. Rest in Peace.
Jack appealed to us “Every Rotarian, Every Year”. That is a “cornerstone” part of Len’s year. You know doubt will be hearing more about that.
We need to sell more tickets for the Mayor’s Good Friday Breakfast on April 18, 2014.
Shiela talked about Community Wellness and we need some more raffle prizes.
One of the best events of the year (That’s what Dean said) is the District Breakfast and it is great training for the new officers and New Members. It is in Carson on May the 10th, which is a Saturday.
Melissa inducted a new Member, Becky Haynes. She was sponsored by Deborah Terrill.
The Program
This is all about providing safe harbor for “Battered Women”. There are two words that should never be said. They shouldn’t be in the same sentence, the same paragraph, or the same letter. What a horrible thing that is depicted by these two words. I am a self-confessed “Polly Anna”. There is a world out there I know nothing about, and if I had my way I would not want to know about it.
But that’s the world we are in.
They were founded in 1972 and last year helped about 25,000 women and children. The women that talked to us were Licensed Therapists. They seemed so together and they deal with extremely sorrowful situations. First of all the provide Shelter for the battered. They provide food, legal advice and lots of advice and council for up to two years to be independent of violence. This counciling can be every day.
They spoke with conviction, and concern. They spoke of the funding they receive from government grants which are very specific on what that money will be spent upon.
For the most part their Shelters are in unknown locations to keep them from the batterer.
These strong women were very impressive and we were all very impressed.
They have an excellent web page.
Other
NCAA Bracket Competition was won by Debbie. Second was Gary's dog Walter, 3rd was Johnny Danger (not sure who he is, but he showed well). Ted and Tom were behind these elite 3 and they should be very happy with their mediocre performance. Dean and Ed challenged, but faded in the end. If they start reading now about College Basketball they may be ready to compete next year. With Dean at the helm we will no doubt have many a chance to gamble. For those of you that invest with Dean he has this great new program that he collaborates with a fella by the name of Bernie and it is the March Madness Fund.
Last place was a tie with our Barrister Dave tying my wife Mary on the last week. Dave at one time new sports, but has not studied the teams since he graduated from college. He spends many a night watching films of himself scoring a lone touch down and thinks of what might have been. She was proud of our dog Walter doing so well and coming in ahead of Tom.
This was so much fun and it is not about the money, but Paul Harris picked up $100 and some of us have bragging rights (Right Debbie). Right Walter (Woof!)
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Max Coleman; JPL Chief ScientestThe Meeting
· Becky has been approved for membership.
· Suzanne Fuentes, a current city council member and running for office, came for a visit.
· It was Debbie's birthday sometime this month (12th). She read her card and had on a very nice Birthday suit.
· District Breakfast April 8th with a speaker named Prophet Walker who started a prison program whereby prisoners can earn a 2 year degree. A few of us in Rotary may be eligible for that degree.
· Services for Julia on Friday at Chevron Park from 2 to 4. I miss her so. We all do.
· We are looking for Raffle Prizes for Community Wellness Day.
· Good Friday Breakfast is April 18 (Mayor's Breakfast).
Another Eagle Scout came to make a presentation. Jim McLees our grown up (sort of) boy scout introduced him. We have had a flock of Eagles lately and it is good to see our youth staying busy helping others ... with Rotary Money. His name is Blaise (sp) Bartowsik (sp). He was funny and made it clear...he was there for the money. Dave asked him a few questions and he said.."I am here for the money". He could be a future Foundation Chairman like Julia and Jack. Show me the money job it is.
· Melissa's Church (St. Michaels) needed new shelving for storage. Blaise had drawings, measurements, and a detailed plan. He knew how much wood he needed and how many screws would be required to make the project work. He did Jack Proud. Jack too likes to plan. He diagrams his day and checks things off as he completes them such as brushing teeth, taking shower every few days etc.. Blaise needed $1,700 for the project. He got challenged by Rotarian's and he had to be quick on his feet, and he was. That's the way life is.
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The Program
Tom Introduced Max Coleman from JPL (NASA) who is an Astro Biologist and he was so much fun and took some very esoteric subjects and made them interesting … and to a degree…understandable. He simply said that you needed to follow the water, and then you may find life. Mars apparently "had some" water and he has some "simi proof" in the way of photographs showing rivers and perhaps lakes. The other place is on a moon of Jupiter called "Europa". Go figure. There apparently is lots of water there. He highly recommended a movie called "Europa" and it is available on Netflix. I looked at the trailer and it looked excellent. I like Space Stuff. I wish I had the Right Stuff to be an Astronaut, but I am afraid of heights. So, I sell Real Estate ... in the Mountains. Hmmm, no wonder I am conflicted.
Life. Here is how I think about it. My feeling is if you have water, you can have wine, beer, bourbon,, etc. and then life will follow. Low life perhaps, but life. So, "Europa" here I come. Look for the nearest bar and you will find some potential Rotary members, start a club, and then not just save the world, save the Universe. We can expand.
Max brought along some examples of things and did some experiments which included lighting a candle (energy) (scared the hell out of Kevin...he didn't know what to do about a fire) and eating a cracker (again energy). He was funny, likable, and is the only Astro Physicist that I know. He is now my friend. We are going to get together and talk about Isotopes.
He kind of lost me about here, not because he wasn't interesting...he was. He lost me because I am not all that smart. If you want to know more about Max, click here.
Thanks to Max and Tom for educating and entertaining us for about 1/2 hour.
PS Max also donated $20 to our Eagle Scout Project and that shows some real class.
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Locked Out on the QueenThe Meeting
Jack: Foundation Chairman
The Program – Elyse
When have a problem and you are locked out of your car…who do you call. Elyse!. She comes to help, and she is glad to do it.
When your Speaker can’t make it at the last minute, who do you call. Elyse! She comes to help, and SPEAK, and boy is she glad to do that!
When there is a podium available, she will find it. See a microphone and she will grab it. Tell her what to day, and she will say it. Let her make it up, and she is so very glad to do that as well!
Every time I think about Elyse, I smile. She makes me feel good. I have never, in all my life met someone who is always of such good cheer, even when your situation is bad. She is a classic, and the phrase: “there has to be a pony in here somewhere” -- was written for her.
She is a “half full” kind of girl, and we (I) am so lucky to know her. Thanks for being you all these years as we age in Rotary together. Anyone who has had a chance to work with you on a project, sit with you at a Fellowship Event, or just plain have a chat when it is just you and one other, know that to be true. You are a dear friend.
Elyse filled in at the last minute to be the Program. Before you say “WOW” be mindful of the fact that she has lots of Programs in her head. Ask her to talk for 15 minutes about a Stick, and she will give you 20.
Elyse talked about Re-Keying the Queen Mary. It is fitting that Queen Elyse (she likes to be called that) re-keyed the Queen Mary. Queens helping Queens. I hope she made a nice profit.
But you know, one of the reason’s she is so successful in her business is,” I never get a sense that she does it for the money”. She does it for the pure pleasure of being “the best”; and what she doesn't know, she will find out.
She spoke about her upbringing in a “Man’s World”. She said she was a “Tom Boy”. Let me add an adjective to that and say she is a “Beautiful Tom Boy”. She talked about all the problems she had and all the mistakes she has made, including those made in rekeying the Queen Mary. But, you know what, none of that was viewed as negative or whining. She laughed at herself and I believe she viewed all of these difficulties as opportunities to learn, and help others.
Speaking of helping others, she has held just about every office in Rotary including the first Female President -- and she has done that twice. Tom wanted that honor. She has been President of the Chamber; I know she has won a speaking contest with a Womens organization in El Segundo; and was woman of the year. I had to follow her one time after she gave her award winning speech. Not an easy act to follow. I didn't win "Woman of the Year". Tom wanted that as well.
Also, how about the job she has done in a leadership position for all these years in Interact. She has helped shape the lives of many a young a adult out in the world today, and I am sure they are all grateful for having had the opportunity to work with Elyse…and so am I. Over the course of a year many of them come back to Elyse to say hi, and thanks. They are grateful.
Thanks Elyse.
PS. Elyse also taught us all how to pick a lock. Most of us did it fairly easily in a few minutes which either makes Elyse a great teacher or her Students great crooks. Probably a combination of the two.
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A Stroll Around Mono LakeRotary Meeting of March 6, 2014 “A Stroll Around Mono Lake” by Gary Wilson, Bulletin Editor.
The Meeting
Mari Peters visited and recommitted her vows to Rotary and we will be seeing her a lot more often now. For those of you who don’t know -- Mari was a fanatical Rotarian for some time and a Past President who fell in love with the mystical figure of Paul Harris. They got married at one time, but the difficulty of a truly spiritual life became too much for her, and she had to return to her second love…Banking. Welcome back.
Kevin told the joke of the day, and stayed with Religion in a clean way and it was nicely received. He received a nice ovation and walked a fine line between Religion and Humor. God would have laughed. He did laugh.
Ed delivered his daughters Girl Scout cookies, I ate them all. Dr.s orders. I had to eat them, Mary takes them away from me if I bring them home and I get sent to my room. Plus, Walter eats too many. I hid some in the house however. They won’t be there long.
April 18, is Mayor’s Good Friday Breakfast. Keith Ericson is the Key Note Speaker. Joe Harding will be the MC and a cast of Rotarians will fill in doing Flag Solutes and Prayers. We have a few past Mayors in the group as well. This will be the first year that Floyd won’t be there. My guess is he will be there somewhere.
Dave Reiman gave Carlos Donahue a donation from the Church for running the program … “Run for Education”
Bill Mason and his daughter Peggy were at the meeting…more later.
The Program
Mono Lake
A Scientific kind of guy made a presentation on Mono Lake. It is on the East Side of Yosemite and when you come upon it you feel like you made a wrong turn and ended up on the moon when it had some water. Salt Water for sure with the only life being that of Brine Shrimp. Not the eating kind (at least for people), but the kind you buy when you have an aquarium and want to give the bigger fish a real treat. I use to have one of those and watching big fish swallow little fish (shrimp) is a little creepy. I think it is best to be a big shrimp (there is a dichotomy of terms), like Mike Briney.
That lake has lots of history and archaeological mystery to it. Our speaker spoke in an organized fashion about the lake, but it is best to go to the web site for detail.
Brag Time
We had some time left over and Len decided to have Brag Time. For those of you that don’t know that is when we pass a Jar and you can put some currency in there and “brag” on whatever you want, or simply talk about whatever comes to mind. We don’t want to hear any change in that jar either.
Most of us talked about Julia and how much she meant to us personally and the club. She was my buddy and I will share more of my thoughts and others will do so as well on Friday March 28, 2014 at Chevron Park between 2 and 4 PM.
She will be missed.
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By the NumbersaRotary Bulletin 2-20 and 2-27 “By the Numbers” Gary Wilson, Bulletin Editor The Meeting There was a sadness in the room as we all had learned during the week of the passing of Julia. We loved Julia and her ceaseless energy; fun loving spirit; and the ability to laugh. She took jokes so very well, better than anyone. She enjoyed life and we miss her so. In the next few weeks I will write more about her as we gather our thoughts and gather around Bill in his time of need. Life is so tough some times. Speaking of tough. How about Jim McLeese and the fact that he and most member of his family have some form of Muscular Dystrophy. Was he sad, not that I could see. He and Joanna and their daughter came proudly to tell our group about their unique situation and cause. When I see these types of things by fellow Rotarians it makes what problems I have seem so small. Thanks for being you and being a role model for us. Michelle made it a trifecta with her joke telling. She has a knack, a gift. Her delivery makes the joke. Nice run there Michelle. We had another Eagle Scout visit us and his project was to work with the Girl Scouts. If I had known that was an option when I was a scout, I too would have been an Eagle. My projects were picking up trash along the polluted Des Plaines River in Illinois. No Girl Scouts for me. The Program: I am not sure I can capture this. Let me start by saying that this was very, very good. A game changer. Ms. Cobb arranged to have a Math Teacher come talk to us. His name was Luc. Luc: A Simple Math Teacher, but oh so impressive. I don’t remember his last name, but I remember him. The name Luc works. It works for me. Simple name, complex guy. Complex subject that he made simple. He walked the part, talked the part, looked the part and acted the part. The “new” type of math teacher. Not like mine when I was growing up. Mr. Robertson was his name. I don’t think he had a first name. If he did, it was not necessary for me to know it. There is no question in my mind that his students will go far. He made you think. He made Tom think. At least I think so. It’s hard to tell some times. He put some new words into a math class. Those words are “WHY”, or “HOW”. I don’t remember those words being used in my math class. I don’t remember any words being used in my math class...only numbers. Math was a very rote class for me. I memorized formula’s and numbers. I memorized Pi, but still not sure what it does. Not sure that was taught. It must have been, but I don’t remember. All I remember is 3.1416. It has something to do with a circle, I think. I bet Luc could tell me. Once I memorized it, I thought I “knew it”. But, that’s not so. I passed the tests. 2 plus 2 is 4...right. It always was. I bet it still is, unless Einstein was involved and he would have said that that would be relative. He showed pictures of his class, and it was not a bunch of kids sitting in a row listening to a lecturer at the front of the room. These were kids working together and solving problems. They were “interacting” with each other....and the teacher. Again, asking “How” or “Why”. I believe he was using parabolic equations to solve an actual problem like firing a missile at another missile and determining the impact point so that the debris from the explosion falls in the proper place. He tied this puzzle in with International Relations. We did not want the debris to fall on our European Allies. He wanted it to fall into the ocean. The equation was manipulated to make that happen. That’s cool. He talked about kids figuring out what to tip in a restaurant, but went further. In our Country it is “customary”, which means you better do it. In some countries it is an insult. They teach that...in math?? Why not? I loved the way he consistently used the word “Rigor”. I need to study that word some. He also said he has an idol in the Math teaching field. Just like Jack’s Idol is Justin Beiber. Luc’s idol Dan Meyer and he has a number of Ted Talks. I just grabbed one to take a look. Click here: Dan Meyer Ted Talk He was excellent Ms Cobb, thank you for arranging it. Thank you for cobbling together 4 great programs inarow. YougetanA. PS: Jack’s favorite web site: Justin |
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2013 Rotary 4th of July Watermelon Eating Contest |
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2013 Community Wellness Day
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Mad March Give AwayMad March Mixer
Tickets can also be purchased at the following locations:
Industrial Lock & Security 401 Main Street
El Segundo Chamber of Commerce 427 Main Street
Studio Printing 446 Main Street
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Philip M. White
April 29, 1956 - January 24, 2013 Phil White passed away January 24, 2013 Phil joined the El Segundo Rotary Club in February 1989. Phil served as President, Secretary, Membership Chair and just about every other position you could think of. If something needed to get done in the club; all you had to do is ask Phil. Many times things were done and we always suspected it was Phil but we didn't have proof. Phil's passion was the kids in Tjuana; El Segundo Rotary sponsored children in the slums of Tijuana and Phil was directly involved in the project. Each year he would take down the Holiday presents to the kids. Phil loved to eat, golf, tel jokes and spend time with friends. His passion was the work he did through the Rotary Club. He will always be remembered or his huge smile, his laugh, his soft heart and his willingness to help others. We will miss you Phil!! |
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El Segundo Rotary & El Segundo Unified School District Book DriveEl Segundo Rotary Club partnered with the El Segundo Unified School District to organize the annual Gently Used Book Drive; three schools participated in the drive; Richmond Street Elementary, Center Street Elementary, and the El Segundo Middle School. Rotarian Dickie Van Breene organized and ran the drive; Dickie is also the Principal at Richmond Street Elementary. Thanks to Dickie for all of the hard work. Hundreds of Books were donated; this year our Gently Used Book Drive will be going to Dolores Huerta Elementary School in the Lennox Unified School District. The principal is Susan Ramos and the librarian Le'Audra Mask. We collected over 1,200 books.
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2012 Holiday Parade |
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El Segundo Rotarians at work..........El Segundo Rotarians were joined by El Segundo High School Students to paint the progess meter for the El Segundo Education Foundation (ED). ED's goal this year is to raise $900,000 to help the school district. Please watch as we piece together the puzzle. |
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2012 Holiday Parade |
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Space Shuttle Fly By LAX |
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El Segundo Middle School International Garden 2012As El Segundo Middle School draws closer to becoming an official International Baccalaureate World School, we are mindful of ways to promote global mindedness in our students. While we are fortunate to have such strong schools in El Segundo, we want to encourage students to embrace their community, but to also think beyond about our interdependence with others around the state, country and globe. The recent installation of our Rotary Club's International Garden is the first physical manifestation of this principle on our campus. We hope it will be an educational tool for our teachers to explore plant life and how flora from around the planet are often every day sights in our community. We also hope it will provide a tranquil place for students to relax, explore, and just enjoy. We are fortunate to have the support and generous grant from the Rotary Club - they have made a significant contribution to our school environment.
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El Segundo Rotary Club Movie in the Park 2012 |
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Rotary Club of El Segundo 2011 - 2012
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El Segundo Community Service Awards 2012El Segundo Rotary Club is pleased to annouce the 2012 Community Service Awards winners. Please join El Segundo Rotary club is thanking these community leaders at our annual luncheon on June 7, 2012, at the Hacienda Hotel. Representatives from LA County Supervisor Don Knabe, CA Assemblymember Betsy Butler, State Senator Ted Lieu and United States Congressperson Janice Hahn will be there to award certificates to the winners. El Segundo Mayor Carl Jacobson, along with Mayro Pro Tem, Suzanne Fuentes and Councilmembers Bill Fisher, Marie Fellhauer, and Dave Atkinson will also be in attendance. |
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Rotary Bulletin 5-10-2012 “We Are At Our Best When We are Unprepared”.Rotary Bulletin 5-10-2012 “We Are At Our Best When We are Unprepared”. Introduction: Attendance seemed to be a little down this week and you missed one of the best meetings, let me explain later. It was great to see Penny and Lorena again. They have been very busy “getting through the recession” and that takes some doing now-a-days. By the way if Penny doesn’t shake your hand it not because she is not glad to see you, she has a little bit of a medical condition that makes it uncomfortable. I like the hug better anyway. With Lorena I get both. First of All Dick brought his very attractive daughter to Rotary. Her name was Patty “Lou”, not sure if I spelled Patti right and she didn’t particularly like the Lou Part. She was fun and lively and we were glad to have her. Guests: We had no further guests this week and the fella that came last week to “check us out” did not come back. When he was introduced by Tom last week as a prospective new member Elyse jumped in his lap and gave him a big welcome. He was a little surprised and it looked like he thought he went to a different “club” for lunch. With his greeting it looked like he was in a “Gentlemans Club”. I asked Tom if the greeting was a “lap dance”. I heard about stuff like that but Tom said “no, that’s not a lap dance!. I would know”. I didn’t know, but Tom did. It is great having well rounded people in the club. People of the world who are knowledgeable about such things. Program: We found out at the last minute that the Program could not make it and Melissa had to do some tap dancing and called upon Julia to talk to us about the Foundation. Julia was in charge of raising money for the Foundation for about 10 years and boy was she good at that! I complimented her on her fine job over the years and told about how I never wanted to “catch her eye” when she was at a meeting because I knew she was going to ask me for money. When I would tell her I couldn’t afford it, she said “what can you afford” and I would make up some number and she would tell me how there were matching funds that double that amount and if I could come up with just a few dollars more I would be saving someone from some horrible disease that would “someday grow up to be a Doctor” -- and they in turn could save thousands of future lives because of my extra $100. Did I really want to be responsible for the fate of so many. I found the hundred. She was the best and is a hard act to follow. Jack is going to be our Foundation Chair for this year so keep your eyes peeled(so to speak). I know he had lunch with Julia recently to “learn the ropes”. He stared at me recently after his visit and said, “man, did I learn a lot from her…she really knows this”. I avoided his stare and faked that I had another appointment and started thinking about how am I going to get the next $100 and save the world. Since the program couldn’t be there Melissa tried another weapon…Joe Harding. Never at a loss for words, Joe told us that he recently started some classes on improvisation. This is to help Joe overcome his innate shyness and it seems to be working. He put us through some exercises that he learned in the class. The first was for 5 of us to tell a story, one sentence at a time. After each sentence the next person had to begin the next line of the story with the next letter of the alphabet. There was myself, Phil, Jim, Frank, and Marhsa. We went through all the letters of the alphabet beginning our sentences and the story “got told” so to speak. You might call it a “novella”. The story line quickly went to Las Vegas with lot’s of Sex in it. We got to the 26th line just before the “novella” turned to Porn. People were sorry to see it end. This was how “Fifty Shades of Grey” was written. The next “Sketch” was a cab ride. Julie was the first one in the cab and was the driver. She had to play the role as Angry. She then picked up a passenger (Sheila) who had to be giddy. Each time someone as picked up they had a different mood to portray and the whole rest of the cab had to portray the same mood. For a while both Shiela and Julie “drove” as giddy, then picked up Marsha who was sad, very sad because her Cat was constipated. Everyone in the cab then had to be sad, and they were. They were also very very funny. Then they picked up Clair and she joined the group as “Worried”…and they all worried about everything. They worried and whined. This was very funny and all Rotarians were excellent actors. I can see us doing this again. We ended with Julie being a hammer and Sandy being a nail. They had a lively conversation about what each would be thinking when they approached each other with their “function “ in mind. This was a very fun Program and lots of people participated and laughed very hard. I changed my trousers later. Rotary Quiz: (For an Extra Raffle Ticket and Bragging Rights be the first person to Email me the answer to: There was a TV show in the late 80’s and early 90’s with improvisational actors. It was on for about 10 years and was very funny. Who was the main star and what was the title of the show? |
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El Segundo Rotary Today; Thursday April 19, 2012Our speaker today was Phil Reed; a former local radio personality part of the KBIG morning show "The Phil & Bill Show". Phil was a very entertaining speaker and we learned a lot about the Los Angeles local radio stations over the past 25 years. Phil stated that Shirley Hoffman was primarily responsible for him achieving the News Director job in the business. He stated that Shirley would sometimes be the one to "slip the dynamite under the door" So for those of you who thinks that Shirley is the shy type; just remember she may be quiet and unassuming; but great things come in small packages. Phil is also Past President of Radio & News Organization; responsible for giving out the annual Golden Mic's awards. Thank you Shirley for asking Phil to speak with us; we could have listened to him for another hour. |
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El Segundo Rotary Today; Thursday April 5, 2012Francis Blot; Administrator of LAX Facilities and Planning was our guest speaker today; thanks to Shirley Hoffman for scheduling Francis. Her presentation was very informative about what is going on at LAX with all the changes to the airport and activities to bring LAX up to global standards. Francis showed pictures of the improvements that are complete and models of how the airport will look when finished. She also talked about procedures to make your traveling time easier and how to use the resources at LAX to make your trip stress free. |
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El Segundo Rotary Club Home MakeoversEl Segundo Rotary Club |
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El Segundo Rotary Today; Thursday March 22, 2012
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El Segundo Today; Thursday March 15, 2012
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El Segundo Rotary Today; Thursday March 8, 2012
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El Segundo Rotary Today Thursday March 1, 2012
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El Segundo Rotary Today; February 9. 2011
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El Segundo Rotary Thursday February 2, 2012Dr Ray Gen from El Segundo High School was our guest speaker today. Dr. Gen talked about El Camino College; where he serves on the Board of Trustees. Dr. Gen shared demographic information on the students and transition rates at El Camino. He also spoke about the upcoming realignment of trustee boundaries. This will have an impact on Dr Gen and El Segundo because we will no longer have our own Trustee representing just El Segundo. In the future El Segundo will be lumped with Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo. Dr. Gen's presentation was very informative; we would like to thank Nancy Cobb for inviting Dr. Gen to speak. Joe Harding shared that Hunter Gabel; son of Laura Gabel was very active in the organization and administration of the Pier to Pier Walk a couple of weeks ago. This walk generated $27,000 to The Ed Foundation. Congratulations Hunter and Laura, Good Job. Jeami Duncan has returned from Uganda and she briefly shared some stories about her interaction with some Uganda Rotarians. She is scheduled to be a speaker in March where she will update us on Mercy's Village and her latest trip to Africa. We had a special visitor at the meeting; Lt Carlos Mendoza of the El Segundo Police Department. Everyone welcomed Carlos and Gary Wilson commented about how nice he looked in his uniform.
As most of you know Julie Warner is retiring from State Farm and moving to northern San Diego county. She is having a retirement party this Saturday night at the Standard Restaurant and Bar. If you have time stop by and enjoy some fellowship with Julie. Our attendance continued to be impressive; if you're not one of those do like Joe Harding says and "come hungry...leave inspired" the lunches are working out great with the buffet in the meeting room and the food is delicious. It was nice to see Julia Abreau-Mason and Mr. Bill Mason. This was last weeks reaction to Joke Master; Jack Weber....Hailey and Szophie were not impressed.
See you next week!!!!!
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El Segundo Rotary Today January 26, 2012El Segundo Rotary President Melissa Albers presenting Rotary's check to Center Street School and Richmond Street School for $1,500 each; at the El Segundo Unified School Board Meeting last week. Thanks Laura Gabel for the photograph. If you missed this week's meeting you're in the miniority; we had 28 Rotarians this week to listen to Hailey Hansen (Mini Marsha) talk about the wild fires in Texas that affected her cousin and aunt; Marissa and Marla Stacy. Hailey presented a powerpoint that was a very graphic depection of the fires and the devastation to the homes in Texas. I can't leave out Logan Hansen; he was very entertaining even though it did not have a formal presentation he managed make himself know. Once again the Hacienda Hotel stepped up and helped Hailey with her project of sending care packages to the students in Texas that were affected by the fires; thanks for everything you do Joe Harding. Thanks to Dickie Van Breene for providing the raffle prizes for today's meeting. It was nice to see Lily Craig, Ed Su, Wayne (Wammo) Mularz, Mike Briney and Julie Stolnack today. You know it was a good meeting because Jeff Donahue stayed until the end. Speaking of Joe Harding; we had a new Paul Harris Fellow inducted today........Szofia Harding became the newest member of the Paul Harris Society, way to go Szofia. Szofia has an audition later today for a television commercial; everyone think good thoughts for her. Chris Powell was also presented his Ruby pin for the PHF +6; way to go Chris.
Sydney Su our resident Girl Scout Rotarian; daughter of Ed Su is now accepting orders for Girl Scout cookies if you missed today and want to order some; email Ed at ed@studioprinting.com and he will take your order.
See you next week!!!!!! |
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El Segundo Rotary President Melissa Albers Presenting Check to Schools
El Segundo Rotary President Melissa Albers presenting Rotary's check to Center Street School and Richmond Street School for $1,500 each; at the El Segundo Unified School Board Meeting last week. Thanks Laura Gabel for the photograph. |
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El Segundo Rotary Today January 19, 2012Linal Miller was our speaker today and she talked about the different career pathways that are available to our students at the El Segundo High School. Even though our students satisfy the A - G requirement to enter college; there may be other alternatives to enter college or pursue careers. She has increased the number of local companies that provide internships for our students and the field trips the kids go on are very instructional. We're lucky to have Linal in our school system teaching our kids. Thanks again to Nancy Cobb for introducing our club to Linal.
We continue to have large attendance at our meetings; it must be Melissa's strong leadership skills. I set next to Marsha Hansen and she said that it's nice having a President capable of running a meeting efficiently; especially after last years' President. We had 24 Rotarians today. In addition Jenny Jacobs was the guest of her Mom Sandy Jacobs; Jenny talked about the 3rd Annual Comedy Night. It will be held at the El Segundo High School Performing Arts Center on February 4, 2012 at 6:00 proceeds benefit the high school band. Jenny Davies joined us for lunch and accepted El Segundo Rotary's donation to the Run for Eduction 5k coming up in March. We had a visiting Rotarian from Palos Verdes Sunset Club; Wally. Rotarian Chris Powell is running for El Segundo City Treasurer; if you see him ask who is running against. Looks like it's going to be a very close race. Next Tuesday night at the El Segundo Unified School Board meeting at the school district office; El Segundo Rotary Club will present two $1,500 checks to Richmond Street Elementary and Center Street Elementary schools to help establish their art labs. Finally; Elyse Beardsley, wants to know what the name of El Segundo Middle School. If you see Elyse this week please help her out.
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El Segundo Rotary Today 01-12-12El Segundo Rotary News We had another full house at today's Rotary Meeting 32 Rotarians; of course it could have been our speaker Sarah Briney Davlantis. Sarah brought in quite a few guest with her; Barbara Briney her mom joined us as well as Barbara's husband Mike. Sarah's presentation was awesome; she is a great speaker and I think everyone left the meeting with a better understaning of what our high school students face in meeting today's challenges. Clair Sinnett brought her mom; Georgia; and today is Georgia's 90th birthday. Happy Birthday Georgia. Eagle Scout ChazMichael Morales attended as a guest of Julie Warner and gave a presentation on his eagle scout project; a cycling project to improve some landscaping. There is a car wash this Saturday to help fund his project on the corner of Main & Mariposa; stop by if you can. Things you didn't know; apparently not only is Debbie Terrill an avid Fantasy Football Fanatic; but she also rides a skate board. Elyse fined her for wiping out on the Venice Boardwalk; it's still not clear on how Elyse found this information out. Speaking of Elyse; she is not a big fan of George Washington; I guess she personally knew him and he did something to upset her, because she expressed her dislike of him at today's meeting. Dave Reimann has an standing $500 fine unless he can get his son Chris to become President of the interact club next year. Good Luck Dave. Finally, March 22nd is our Mad March Mixer and it will be held on the Flight Path Museum; thanks to Shirley Hoffmann. Gary Wilson was not at today's meeting; if you see Gary tell him we missed him.
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Park Vista Holiday LuncheonPark Vista Holiday Luncheon The 2011 Holiday lunch for the Park Vista Seniors was a huge success. Our President Melissa & Randy Albers did a wonderful job cooking lunch for the seniors. Randy sang some Christmas carols and fun was had by all. The interactors were on hand to help serve the residents and clean up afterwards. The seniors really appreciated the gifts that were brought by the members of our club. Special thanks to Sheila Fowler for organizing this event.
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District Picnic Cardboard Boat RaceESS El Segundo Fails to Reach Finals |
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Floyd Carr Talks about 50 Years in Rotary |
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Rotary Meeting of Sept 5, 2013 “take me out to the ball game” by Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditorThe Pre Meeting and the Business Meeting
The Program (Tom introduced Jay Johnstone)
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Rotary Meeting of August 22, 2013 “Neighbors Helping Neighbors”, written by Gary Wilson, Bulletin Editor.The Meeting Dave Rieman told the Joke of the Day about an Irish Lawyer…A WINNER and nicely told. No one wanted to do any fining. Laura had a Birthday, don’t know which one. No Anniversaries An Eagle thanked us. And a number of other announcements that we will be receiving emails during the week. Shiela got a nice "Thank You" from Laura for stuffing teacher bags, and during that process gave a very nice presentation about Rotary. What's in a Teacher Bag?
Some Meetings are More Interesting Than Others
The Program – “Westchester Playa Village” – Carol Kitabayashi
What a great idea this one is. Here is how it works. Seniors typically want to live at home throughout their lives, but as they get older they need “help”. Help can be a lot of things. It could be changing a light bulb, driving someone to an event, help clean the yard etc. etc. Elders who have run out of family just need some help from time to time and this is a great program with lots of potential. If they have outlived their children and younger friends -- this program is ideal. So, the light bulb thing got us going. We had to come up with some sort of banter when it came to changing light bulbs. It started by myself saying : “If Tom, Jack and Gary were summoned by a Senior to help someone change a light bulb, what would be the outcome”. Tom was sure of one thing, with that group; “the light bulb would not be changed”. Chances are the light fixture would never work again. And then the idea took off on a life of its own. We may be older, but we have children's minds. The charges to the senior for this service were just $500 for the year, and there appeared to be no limit to what they could ask for. I smiled and I saw that Kevin smiled from across the room. We were both thinking the same thing. We would gladly be a member for the $500 if we could get Tom to Volunteer to help the Seniors (and he will; he has such a good heart and will always help others). We could request him to come over every time we needed our car’s washed, floors cleaned, yard work, etc. and we could leave the light bulb changing to a more knowledgeable Volunteer. Jack and Len could do it. It would take some charts and graphs and project software, but it would get done, and done well, an about a month. Back to Kevin. Kevin could even have Tom come and wash the Fire Engines and save the City come money and make the Engines look good when he went for coffee in the morning with the siren’s going as he pulled into Starbucks and saw all the El Segundo Police having a break. Back to the Real Seniors. Sometimes the Seniors just needed to talk, and Jack would be great for that as well. Days would go by. Summer would turn to fall and the leaves would change. Or, ENTERTAINED! How about the “Elyse and Joe show”. They could bring their podiums. Joe could fine the Seniors. Or, if they wanted a spreadsheet done…."Hello Len". He could make it in different colors. Seniors don't like Spread Sheets, but they may want their sheets changed. Can you do that Len? Or, Ted could balance their check books (+ or - $5,000). Sell them Vitamins too. Or, Sheila could show them how to turn off their smart phones so it wouldn't disturb the other Seniors at meetings. She’s good at that. Most Seniors sleep at meetings anyway. They do in our club. Oh, the possibilities are endless. I hope they have this program when I am “ready”. I can think of lots of fun things to request. Oh my! It might be gender specific. There is confusion over gender now-a-days, but not for me. |
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Rotary Meeting of August 15, 2013 “The Irish are Coming, or is it the Indians”, by Gary Wilson, Bulletin Editor.The Meeting
Membership Report on Process of Bringing in new members was presented by Melissa Albers and her abundant assistant, Gary Wilson. The content of that presentation follows. Membership Presentation Aug. 15, 2013
I. Membership in Rotary is by Invitation Only. You can’t just walk in and say I want to be a member. You must have a sponsor. If someone does walk in, they should be assigned a sponsor at the meeting by the Membership Chairman (Melissa) or the President in her absence. II. Recruiting: We are all responsible for our future members. The best way to “recruit” is by “acquaintanceship” A Neighbor, A Colleague, a fellow committee member etc. Someone you really are getting to know; someone with whom you would like to Share the “Gift or Rotary”. Most members who have been in Rotary a couple of years or more, will say it is a life changing experience, all for the better. It’s a precious gift and a privilege to be a member. You are picking your friends for the rest of your life. Treat this treasure wisely. However, we are not exclusionary. III. Wear Your Pin -- not just to meetings, but every day and every where. It will strike up conversation about What Is Rotary. Then you can share, and they should be encourage to share back. IV. When you are thinking of sponsoring someone think in terms for 3 Meetings. Meeting 1: Tell them about the members (what their jobs are and any other information about them), the handshaking, the timeframes for meetings, how often we meet, etc. etc. We pay for lunch, and tell them if they come again we will pay for their first 3 lunches, then whether they are a new member or not, they will have to pay for their own and any guests they may bring during this period. Have a brief visit after the meeting. Talk about the difference between Service Clubs, Fraternal/Social Clubs, and Business Clubs. Talk about “doing business” and business cards etc. Rotary is a SERVICE Club (i.e. Service Above Self). Get their phone number and Email Address and learn more about what they do for a living and their community involvement thus far. Tell them that you will contact them during the following week and see if there is any interest. If so, call them on Wednesday and see if they are coming and would they like you to pick them up. If they are coming make sure you are here first. Tell them where to park. Stamp their parking pass. Note: They can join us at various service projects even if they are not a member. Meeting 2: Greet them at the Door. Be there first. Tell them about all the programs we have to help, both locally, regionally, and Nationally and Internationally. Tell them that the purpose of Rotary is Simple…to help others. Will they get business from Rotary? Perhaps, but it will take a while; and if that is the main purpose for them to consider Rotary they will be disappointed and should be discouraged from joining. We do business by Acquaintanceship and by Accident. Visit with them again after the meeting and see if they have any questions. Before the next meeting call them and determine their level of interest and invite them again to a meeting. Get their first and have them meet other members. Meeting 3: They should be pretty serious by now and arrange a meeting with Melissa and other club members to discuss the requirements of members, the 4 way test, the history, etc. etc. The financial obligations should be explained in detail along with attendance requirements, the ability to do make ups and help at events and getting on committees. If they say they want to join tell them what our membership procedures are and that their name will be brought up at the next board meeting and to the members at large. Assuming there is no problems then you will have them fill out the membership form and proceed from there. Another separate meeting should be arranged with Melissa and Len and the sponsor and anyone else who seems appropriate. There is more to this, but that’s the highlights. The Program
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Rotary Meeting of 8-8-2013 “The Big Guys Come A Callin”, by Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditorBefore the Meeting The District Governor’s Visit Once a year the District Governor comes a visiting to “check up” on the club to make sure we are being run properly. He meets with the Board a couple of hours before the regular meeting. The President and each Officer gets an opportunity to suck up the the District Governor and he can then bless each of us and the club in General. The District Governor Elect for this year had passed away and a prior District Governor stepped in and is is implementing the plan with the help of a few other past District Governors. We got the chance to have Bill Bloomfield from the District to “audit” our group and he seemed very pleased. We all were very pleased with him as well. Good guy and has run for US Congress you will see by clicking above. We all covered for Len as best we could. The Meeting Len did an outstanding job running a complex day and a few complex meetings in a very professional and timely way. Meetings started and ended on time, everyone got a chance to have their say, awards were given and a great new member was inducted. He fit it all in. Great Job. I don’t compliment Presidents much, but you deserve and atta-boy today and you make me proud to be a Rotarian. Enough of that. Tom Forsyth told the joke of the day at the Bulletin Editors expense. It was a good joke, nice job. It is getting tougher and tougher to tell jokes in that we want to keep them clean, not anger any particular ethnic group, and be mindful of the fact that we may have youngsters visiting. In talking to Len and others it appears the joke “territory” is slim, but the “Irish” jokes seem to still be in vogue and in good taste. Great! So, I have a joke about these 2 Irish Lesbians that go into a bar and…. (Sorry, couldn’t resist). Len earned his money during this meeting. He worked with Engineering precision and dispatch. Lots of things to juggle, cards to read, people to call upon, and keep it lively and fun. He did with a little help from his friends. Len went to the City Council and thanked them for their support of the Movie in the Park Len went through a whole litany of dates to remember, which we will see in future emails from our President. (What did we do before E-Mail) Close to 1000 people attended the Movie in the Park. Good turnout in today’s times. We sold(drank) more beer and wine than ever before. Good bar tending. Most of our “vendors” were happy with the sales as well. We had about 35 members show up and volunteer…Great Job Rotarian's. Brad Robinson (past District Governor) inducted our newest member, Tyrone Dawkins, (who is a Hypnotist) and we are very pleased to have him. His motivation is to “give back to the town he lives in”. Brad’s method if induction is to talk about the 4 Way Test, and Service Above Self. Melissa had come prepared and had Tyrone's pin all set to go, along with framed certificates and miscellaneous goods to share. Tyrone was asked to speak briefly and did a great job…not too short and not too long. He pretty much said he lives the motto service above self and that you “get when you give”. In essence, he has been a Rotarian for a long time, but we made it official today. He was originally brought to the club by Sammy, but since Sammy is no longer “officially” a member, I volunteered to be his sponsor. I am very proud to take that role and call him a fellow Rotarian -- and a friend. Paul Harris Fellow’s were awarded to Clair Sinnett, Jack Weber, and Robin Fosselman. We are all grateful for your contribution and you friendship. Claire was/is Robin’s sponsor and she “Pinned” her with one hand. That may require some explanation. Sandy was given a few checks for students in Guymas to help them complete their education. Sandy spends many hours helping these students either directly to visits to their city, and always getting donations of money and fire engines (yes that’s what I said, and thanks to you Kevin who also makes a a huge commitment of time and money to Guymas). Len gave Jeami Duncan a check for $6000 for Mercy’s Village (A Project in Uganda that Jeami started) to be used to build a playground in the name of Phil White, our fallen Rotarian and friend. He’d be proud and definitely would tear up about now. I feel his hand upon my shoulder as I write this. Dean, Julie, and Joe will be going with Jeami in the fall to go to Uganda and help her with the project. Jeami is a budding “Humanitarian Rock Star” and we all look forward to her progress on Mercy’s Village and future Rotary projects. She is humble too. I'd say she is good looking too, but that would be inappropriate. I wish someone would say that about me. The Program The program today was given by past District Governor, Brad Robinson. He is a very interesting fella, click here to find out why. Brad Robinson and the International Trip “Changing lives starts with Engagement”. Think about it. There are three types of engagement in Rotary. Local Projects, International Projects (Club to Club) and District Trips. This is a great way to see parts of the world, help others, and have a good time. That's a nice trifecta. Next years the trip is to Columbia. There will be 10 to 14 projects along with having dinners and lunches and fellowship activities with over one hundred local Rotarains who will become our international friends...forever. It is in March and looks like a very worthwhile time and a way to meet other Rotarians in a casual way. While there are plenty of opportunities to help local needs, there is also time to relax and enjoy. Brad showed lots of pictures of last year’s trip where there was clef palette surgery, giving away wheel chairs, dictionaries, bio sand water filters, and more and more and more. Puerto Rico, Ecuador, Panama, the Galapagos, and more were last year’s itinerary and Brad had pictures of each country doing good works and having good times.
Rotary This Week It looks like our own Frank Glynn is going to be our program this Thursday and I look forward to that. Frank is that tall red head that comes in a little late to meetings and occasionally talks a bit, and you immediately know he is Irish. His eyes always smile at you as if he knows something you don’t (and he does), or he has a leprechaun in his head, or at the very lease has a limerick going on that he can’t get rid of. Those Irish Eyes really are smiling. He is really a great guy and lots of fun -- come here him speak. |
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Rotary Meeting of August 1, 2013 "A Tree Grows in El Segundo" by Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditorRotary Bulletin The Meeting Rotary has so many serious things to deal with like Global Warming, Starvation, Wars between nations etc. However, we must deal with more serious things like who stole the Gavel . Len talked a bit about that in a cavalier sort of way, and decided to recite the 4 way test to us in hopes of getting a confession from someone and the return of the Gavel. No such thing and we moved on. Len had brought a new makeshift gavel to run the meeting so he gently rang the bell to start the meeting. Marsha had a birthday. She won’t mind my telling her birthday number, It is 25 … again. Len received a message from his Gavel and read it -- and it turns out his Gavel is starting to travel around and meeting other Gavels and having capricious affairs of a nefarious nature. Seamus was there (who is Julia’s grandchild) who has had some tough times at an early age. Very tough. He spoke for a few minutes and is "on the mend". His choice of Ice Cream had Olive Oil in it. (It figures he is Julia’s grandchild). In the sweetest voice I think I have ever heard he said said to all of us: “Thank you all for keeping me in your thoughts and prayers when I was sick.” Sweet, sweet words, spoken well from a child who has had some very serious problems. We love you Seamus. Rotary and the Chamber of Commerce Joe took the podium for a bit (what a surprise) and called upon Sandy and asked what she was doing the night before at Chevron Park. Sandy had been elected and installed as the President of the Chamber of Commerce. This would be her 3rd term I believe. Citizen of the Year last year, and now President of the Chamber…again. Rotarian's turned out enmasse to cheer her on and support her. As the evening went on it was obvious this town would have a hard time if it wasn't for all that our fellow Rotarians do; especially for the Chamber. I looked around the room and saw Bill Mason who reigned supreme in this position on and off for about 25 years. Lili Craig did it for a few just recently; Marsha has been President and is now the ? (I am not sure what her title is now, but she runs the Chamber on a Daily Basis) I think her title should be “Chamber Runner”. I know Elyse has been President and is still on the Board. (They must have some podiums available from time to time). Joe must have been the President at one time. If not he should and probably will. (Now that he knows there are Podiums available) How about Chris Powell? I know he was President. He has been President of most things in the city at one time or another, and does them quietly…for the most part. Tom got an award for the Club, but he is not sure for what .. but accepted it anyway. Shirley received an award as well. She gets lots of those and I loved her speech, especially the part that says after she retires (soon) she plans on keeping her membership in Rotary. Sweet words from a sweet person. You go girl. Travel and then come home to us. Guess what. I need to brag. I was President of the Mountain Communities Chamber of Commerce for 3 years. We started with 7 members and went to 125. I couldn't have done that without having had the experience of been a Rotary President. When my final term ended they gave me a Gavel. I still have it. I would lend it to Len, but I like it too much. Guess what again. I am sure I missed a few Presidents for now and I apologize, but they don’t do it for the recognition. There may be some Rotarian out there that was also a President of the Chamber and I forgot to mention him or her. But I won’t hear from them. They would just as soon lay low…until the next time when the Rotarian rutting season for community service returns. (And it will). It returned to Sandy and we love her for it. (Thanks for taking on the new job Sandy). So we are no strangers to leadership…and we stay on afterwards -- to follow. That’s the neat thing about Rotary is that sometimes you lead, sometimes you follow, and you are not particularly concerned about any type of hierarchy, or credit, as long as it is -- community service. The Program (Adam Gerard – Tree Musketeers) Speaking of leadership, the current President of the Tree Musketeers was there to talk to us, and boy was he impressive. I intentionally used the word “boy” because he started with the Tree Musketeers when I think he said he was 10. It sounded like he became an adult at the age of 11 or 12. (Tom and I are working on it, and Joe never will get there). Joe has the Peter Pan syndrome. It's a good thing, sort of. Look it up. Marsha tried Adulthood, but came back. It's not all that great. You liked Adam from Hi. You loved him 10 minutes in. You hope he remembers you when he is in his 20's, and perhaps visit him in Washington when he is in his 30's. If I had to pick a young person that will be a “big time player” when he is fully grown up, it would be Adam. This guy was just…Super. Confident with a slight swagger, yet humble and grateful as well. Having been accepted to both Stanford and Yale he was moving on (regretfully) from the Tree Musketeers to which he attributed so much of his “maturity”, and it was ample. This was no Alexander Dumas Three Muskateer. This was not Athos, Porthos, nor Aramis. (Look it up) This was Adam Gerard. Tree Musketeers has a rich tradition of sending its youth leaders out into the world via prestigious universities ranging from USC to NYU, Berkeley and Harvard. The winning college portfolio begins with LEAD courses. Adam Gerard, a nine-year veteran at the place where kids are boss, is headed to Yale this fall. If you have about 4 minutes go to their web site and see what our future leaders will look like, you will be impressed. If you go here you will see kids running a meeting…without a Gavel. http://treemusketeers.org/2013/who-we-are-tree-musketeers-new-video/
I would like to say that Len ended the meeting with the clanging of the bell, but his new gavel was stolen, so there was barely a tinkle. That's where I have to go now. Tinkle that is. |
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Rotary Meeting of July 25th, 2013, The Case of the Lost Gavel by Jack Weber, Cub ReporterRotary Meeting of July 25th, 2013 The POTESRC (President of the El Segundo Rotary Club) Loses His Gavel By Jack Weber, Cub Reporter
Fines and Jokes: Upcoming Events:
Julie Stolnack reported that Jack White, Phil’s brother, is coming out at a future date to spread Phil’s ashes at some of Phil’s favorite golfing spots. She also reported the sad news that Phil’s other brother has passed away. Speaker and Presentation:
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Rotary Meeting of July 18, 2013 “Oops, lost my recording, by Gary Wilson, Bulletin Editor”.The Meeting
Eagle Scout Help
The Program
Back Story – Rotary Demotion Party Meanderings about the Demotion Party Melissa and Randy This year’s Demotion wouldn’t have been what it was without these two Thespians. (No Tom, that’s not what you think it is). They are indeed modern day Renaissance people. They sing, they act, they cook, and they’re smart. They may dance, I don’t know. They are well read, dedicated, and just plain fun. Ask either of them about any music any time, and they know. They sing at home. When Tom and I are drinking, they are singing. When they are sleeping, Tom and I are singing. And, they say yes to most everything. True volunteers with talent they are. Last year Melissa got demoted, and Randy helped. We put on a musical. I remember when I first said we would do a musical and everyone pretty much said “yea right”. But, Rotary Past Presidents (being what they are said) later “why not”. So, we sang. From there on .. we had help. Randy was asked if he would like to help “demote” his wife. He grinned and said “hell yes” and … “American Idol -- Rotary Style” was born. When we opened with our fallen brother Joe Clark singing “Row, Row, Row, Your Boat” Randy shook his head, and we went on anyway. One of our Asian Rotarians said “you had me from heRow”. Randy was at Melissa’s side every step of the way during her reign as President -- from painting lime green houses in El Segundo, to her farewell song to us on her final day, and her last song as Rotary President at her Demotion…”You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” sung with Randy. They're quite a couple and the world is a much better place because of them, and so is the Demotion Party. I asked Randy then and there would he like to help demote Tom the following year when the time came, and he said “hell yes”, give me a call. I did. The first Demotion meeting we have is always to come up with the general idea, the Theme, the setting, the tone etc. We try to find things that we can exploit. We find the peccadillo’s of a “soon to be past President”. The odd things about a person are what we are looking for. Tom was Christmas. Tom was easy, we had him from Hello. His opening day pronouncement that he was the “Supreme Commander”, and “he is from the South and speak s English differently”, was fodder. I just started grinning. The first few lines were written. He also lacks a few follicles on his head and we realized we had found the mother lode. On his first day -- the theme was born. When we started to meet seriously we decided we needed two settings and two acts: The South; and Star Trek. They go together… right? How do we get to the hair thing and the southern twang…well, you saw the skit. You take it to the toilet. All young men heard about going blind when they were young, it didn’t take much to add losing your hair. An outhouse was the perfect setting for the south;) Melissa and Chris as Tom’s Mom and Dad were perfect. I don’t think they rehearsed together at all, and never missed a line. They added a few to those that Melissa wrote. Both made their own costumes and kept it a secret until performance night. Chris left his bottle of moonshine at home, but perhaps he drank it. Nancy as young Tom was our only Cross Dresser this year and she no doubt has done that before. She can act, or was it acting. Add Marsha and Julie as a couple of sluts and you have a play on your hands. They are both great sluts and one sings. I love singing sluts. They were sexy and superb. I hope they are Method Actors. They never did call me to rehearse or anything. Maybe it was because my name was Carlos Danger. (God help New York if he becomes the Mayor. Sometimes I write this stuff and think it is so outrageous that people know it is just too crazy, and along comes Anthony Weiner) How do we deal with “The Supreme Commander”? Kevin came up with the solution saying that he thinks that’s what they call the top guys in Star Trek -- and he was right. Commander John Luc Picard was bald to boot. Too good to be true. Kevin loved the part and got a chance to beat up on his best buddy for a while that evening. He wrote his own lines and the repartee between himself, the worst public space defender in the Universe (Julia), and “Tom Ass” took on a life of its own and it was funny. Kevin is a great actor, but then again that is what he does every day anyway. Kevin bought his own outfit as well. There is a costume shop on Artesia called Aardvark. I went there to check out a few odds and ends for the play and told them I was with the Rotary and mentioned the play. They said “Oh yea, Kevin was in here last week buying some things for that play. He always buys his costumes in here". (My eyes got wide) "We sold him a Fire Chief’s outfit here a number of years ago and he goes to quite a few “dress up” events throughout the year and buys or rents things from us all the time. Say, if you see him would you have him return the cape and feathers. There is another “fella” named Joe that wants to use those things. Can’t imagine what they do with them and I am pretty sure you wouldn’t know. “ He’s right about that and I don’t want to know. The pictures from Karly(sp) and Brenda were perfect for Elyse(Dr. Troy) to “analyze” Tom’s fitness for Command. He was not. She was great and very funny. She had studied her part, watched lots of footage of her character, and knew her lines. She was and is a pro. Dave, the Vulcan Lawyer was great in guiding Elyse through her testimony picture by picture. During rehearsal he told Elyse, “you tell me what you want to say, and I will guide you there via my line of questions”. He also did the slide presentation and put some reference to himself scoring touchdowns a very long time ago. That seems to be a recurring theme in Dave’s life. Good old Cha Cha, you can count on him. We tied the two acts together with the fumbling FedEx Man(Alex). Tom has some history with FedEx and he had to be in there and Alex looked the part….for about 600 space years. Alex made his own wardrobe and wrote his own lines. He kept trying to deliver dirty magazines to Tom and Tom denied ordering them. Jean Luc (Kevin) confiscated them for the court. He still has them I think. Notes on the Setting We decided to have a trial and had to get everyone from the Enterprise at the far end of a distant galaxy in the year 2230.6, to Tom’s Demotion Party in El Segundo in June, 2013. That’s a long way. We needed a way to do that. Randy said he could build a Teleporter. (Of course he could). Oh, and by the way would you like the little Star Trek Federation Star fleet logo for your outfit. Randy said he could make those. (Of course he could). By the way on the Transporter would you like smoke and some strobe lights? (Of course. Why not?) "I thought the Teleporter came with that". (I was getting into this). “I can do sound effects too said Randy”. (Of course you can). How about a toilet flushing .. yep. Door Bell? Yep. Music? Yep. So, you get the picture. He built the sets, he played the music, and he kept good cheer and never asked for even a thank you. “Thank you so much Randy, how about next year? We may need a Pope, can you make the Vatican?” "I hear Len likes James Bond…just to get you thinking". Finally the credit for this belongs to everyone. It is easy for me when you have lots of very good people around you. Pretty much everyone wrote their own parts and took it seriously. They studied YouTube and visited costume shops, and practiced a bit as well. We had some laughs and had a good sport in Tom. The music, the lights, the actors, the audience and the alcohol helps as well. Teddy Roosevelt said “The Credit Belongs to the Man in the Arena” and that is the Past Presidents. Dave Rieman our great Prosecuting Attorney who was also a Vulcan, put the slide show together and he was kind enough to give me lots of credit at the end which I did not know was coming. I am grateful for his kind thoughts, but not worthy. I am grateful to be a Rotarian with the finest people I know as my friends. So, we start on next year’s demotion now. Pictures Tom received a very nice handbag in the drawings. He was thrilled. Prizes were donated by Julia from her garage full of old gifts that were not used...much.
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Rotary Meeting of July 11, 2013 “Len Starts the Long Walk -- One List at a Time” by Gary Wilson, Bulletin Editor
Before the Meeting
The Meeting
The Exit
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Rotary Meeting of 6-20-2013 “Welcome Home Tom”, by Gary Wilson, Bulletin Editor.Ode to Thomas
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Rotary Bulletin of 6-13-2013 Time to get the Body in Order and Fit for Life, but Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditorThe Meeting
The Program – Katie, a Nutrition and Wellness Coach
3 Tips to Higher Energy
To My Friend Tom
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Rotary Meeting of June 6, 2013 "Den of Thieves by Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditorThe Meeting
The Speaker
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The Meeting of 5-30-2013 “Bring in the Clones, There’s Got to Be Clones”, by Gary Wilson, Bulletin Editor.The Meeting
The Program
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Rotary Meeting of 5-21-2013 “The Special Few Who Make this Town so very Special”The Meeting and the Program This is such a very special meeting because it allows Rotary to recognize those elite individuals in our community who serve with distinction. Sometimes I think we (me) forget how important it is to recognize. To notice those people who quite frankly, never get noticed. I have a few awards that I “earned” in my past, and was thrilled at the time to be “noticed’, to have received recognition for my efforts. I gave whatever plaque or certificate I received an “aw shucks, no big deal”, but I lied. It was a big deal then and now. Even today when I am rummaging through the garage I will find in an old box a certificate that says “Most Valuable Senior”. “Aw shucks, no big deal”, but I will smile, pick it up and look at it again and my mind will return to that time to what I thought was a “simpler time”. Then I will put it back in the box and tuck it carefully away until the next time. My eyes may be a little moist and I am grateful that someone, sometime, took the time, to say thank you. Lots of representatives of local politicians came to this special day to give the certificates that will end up in a garage someday, to be remembered at a later time. The house was loaded with El Segundo Dignitaries. We had representatives from Henry Waxman’s office, From Don Knabe’s office, from Ted Lieu’s office and from Steven Bradfords Office and our newly appointed mayor, Bill Fisher along with council members Mayor Pro Tem Carl Jacobs, Marie Felhower(sp), and Dave Atkinson, City Manager Greg Carpenter, Police Chief Mitch Tavera, Fire Chief Kevin Smith, Superintendent Jeff Yantz, Postmaster Dena Motta. I may have forgotten someone but what a cast of El Segundo Superstars were there to honor our very special guests. If some catastrophic event took place at the a Hacienda that day the Southbay and El Segundo in particular would be in deep trouble. With all that talent in the room it makes you realize how important it is to honor those that do the work to make our city so very special. It is really fun to see these people all under one roof. You can tell there is obvious respect for each other and they are quick on their feet and the meeting is always lively. Thanks El Segundo
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2013 Community Service Awards Luncheon
Please join us Thursday, May 23, 2013 at the Hacienda Hotel for a luncheon as we honor the winners of this year's Community Service Awards. Representatives from U.S. House of Representatives Henry A. Waxman, California State Senate, Ted W. Lieu; California State Assembly, Steven Bradford; and Los Angeles County Supervisor, Don Knabe will be in attendance to recognize and honor the winners. El Segundo City Mayor Carl Jacobson, & Mayor Pro Tem Suzanne Fuentes will also be in attendance to recognize the accomplishments of the these four individuals. The recipients have demonstrated qualities that adhere to the Rotary 4 way test in carrying out their duties in their respective occupations. |
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El Segundo Rotary Bulletin of May 9, 2013 A Return to a Simpler Time by Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditorThe Meeting:
The Program (Introduced by Clair)
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El Segundo Rotary Poker Tournament May 18, 2013 |
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Rotary Meeting of May 2, 2013 "Double Double, Fries, and make it a diet coke I am trying to lose some weight", by Jack Weber, Cub ReporterThe Meeting
The Program
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Rotary Meeting of 4/25/2013 - The Meeting: Love, Give, Donate, Help, and you will feel good, by Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditorEngage Rotary, Change Lives
The Speaker
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Rotary Meeting of April 18, 2013 “Send in the Clowns and get Wanded” by Gary Wilson, Bulletin Editor.The Meeting
The Program
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Rotary Meeting of 4-11-2013 "North vs. South" and let's dress up. by Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditorThe Meeting
The Program Karl Jacobs, “Reenactment Guy”. Samuel M. Camp (also known as Karl Jacobs, husband of Sandy) wore the revolutionary war uniform that was worn by the Germans in the War of Independence. (What the hell were they doing in our war). He frequently speaks to 5th graders about his endeavor and uniform. 5th grade level is a bit much for us, but we got most of it. I know he “dons” that uniform at home on those special occasions when he and Sandy turn the lights down low, put on their favorite civil war music, and “reenact” those romantic moments of another time. That “dashing young man” is called upon to be brave, salute the flag, and stay awake til at least 9:30 and making sure the dishes are done. (Note: Thanks Jack for the fine pictures, I couldn't make the text flow around so it looks somewhat disjointed, aren't we all) Samuel Camp (a distant relative of Karl’s) was born in 1750, Bill thinks he knows him. Karl read from his Journal. He brought flags from that time and Bill Mason recognized both. They had 13 stars’s and Bill wondered where the extra stars come from. He talked about the battle of Yorktown. The Purple Heart originated during the war. In 1932 it came back into being for “meritorious service”. Every time I see a purple heart I tear up. So what is the life of a “Reenactment” person. Click here and you will get an idea. http://voices.yahoo.com/life-civil-war-reenactor-8280849.html Karl was involved in the Re Enactment of Yorktown. I think the North won, Tom things the South won and it is still going on. Tennessee is still fighting that war. Give it up guys. If you want to know more about this battle and what else went on during this period so click here. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siege_of_Yorktown I have not read enough about the Civil War but it really is the bloodiest of them all with Brother fighting Brother, and Sons fighting their fathers. I cannot imagine living during that time and going to war against those I love. Wives were allowed to go as well and they received pay (only ½ what their husbands received). I never would have thought about that. If the Women of Rotary were in that war whatever side they were on would have won. Elyse would have wanted to be the first woman in the war. Thanks Karl for letting us peak into the world of the Re Enactor and letting us see you in uniform. (Curious if you went to the rest room in uniform and if anyone came in, saw you, and turned around quickly to go out the door. Just curious. That fella probably went over to the Marriot). SPECIAL NOTE: Before you come to the meeting tomorrow -- look in your garage for a basket for Shannon. She is working tirelessly for the Ed Foundation and a basket would make her very happy. She’ll fill the basket, wrap it, put some prizes in it, and raffle it off for $$$ to put into the fund which will help our kids get smart, go to College and then on to a big career so that they can pay a lot of income tax and support us as we get older. Everyone wins, and it only costs us a basket. (I feel like I should sing “A Tisket a Tasket here, but don’t know what a Tisket is, let alone a tasket). Oh well, bring a basket, help Shannon... OK. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Dear Editor, I hear tell that you all are planning a party to honor “Stompin” Tom Forsyth. Well, I am from the same area as Tom down here in Tennessee in a small town called Woodpecker Holler and can’t believe you will honor that boy. I have a good mind to come up there to the land of fruits and nuts and tell you a few things about Tommy Boy when this “celebration” begins. We never thought he would amount to a hill of beans; always “struttin” around like a peacock and asking everyone to call him “Supreme Commander” and such. Shussssh, I tell ya. Some of us just may hop on a bus right now and come up and tell you the truth about old Stompin Tom. We may kick some ass too. When is it? I may bring some of his old girl friends along. The Dawson Twins were something weren’t they Tommy Boy. I have pictures. They have some stories, oh yea they do. None of them ever did get married. What kind of vittles are ya servin up? Can you have a bottle of Jack set up for me? Submitted by Rufus Tufts, Woodpecker Holler, TN |
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Rotary Meeting of April 4, 2013 "Out of Chaos, Comes Order" by Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditorThe Meeting
The Speaker (Adriana McMahon, Director of Communications
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Rotary Meeting of 3-28-2013 "From the Galapagos, to Japan, to Easter and Beyond" by Gary Wilson Bulletin EditorThe Meeting Visitors and Fining and Announcements Tom opened the meeting by introducing our guests from Japan. There was an exchange of Banners in the front as the SUPREME COMMANDER and his counterpart from Japan 最高司令官 of Japanese Rotary. I believe he called Tom an お尻の穴. Tom smiled. The two Commander’s went on and on and on and gushed with and at each other …smiling, and speaking different languages… yet they became ONE, neither knowing what the other said. That sometimes happens at Tom’s meetings, but we love him for it. Tom received a gift (as is custom from some far lands) and then realizing he had to bestow a gift upon our visitor fished in his pocket for a gift to give in return. He found some gum, some loose change, and a blue butterfly pin. Tom wanted the gum and figured they had gum in Japan, needed the change for a cigar after the meeting, so the coveted Blue Butterfly Pin flew out of his hands into the hands of our visitor. Tom told a story of the “Papillion du Bleu” and how he single handedly saved if from extinction for the world, and our guest liked it, or he looked like he did. We had visitors from the Radison hotel and there were a few others but I didn’t catch their name. I was still smitten with the Butterfly Pin. Ed Su brought his daughter Sidney who sold 926 boxes of Girl Scout Cookies. I ate almost that many and was glad I could help her with that record. It is so nice to see Ed come to so many meetings. His presence in the room brings good energy. (I mean that Ed) Joe did some fining. Of course he did, that’s what he does. He got Shiela again. He fined Debbie for traveling the world who went to the Galapagos where her husband who saved a Sea Turtle. Circle of life kind of thing. Did they attend a Rotary Meeting in the Gallapagos? I don’t think so. They are going to Portugal next. That lady moves. I think she also mentioned China. Mary and I are thinking of going to Downey. Eng and her husband (Pope Francis) were there and Joe runs into him at various locations around town and Francis wants him to Kiss his ring. It could be worse. Joe fined the Pope. This Pope wouldn’t wash Joes’ feet. Tom got fined for running and “finishing” the Run for Education. Nice job Tom. Melissa had the Joke of the Day. Another Very Good Joke. I see a second career for you. Debbie got a Birthday Card, and it was Michelle’s birthday, that day. She received a beautiful rendition of “Happy Birthday” from the crowd. She did not appreciate the singing and I took a little ill myself. Robin got her Blue Card. Robin owns the Mailbox in El Segundo and we will be looking forward to her Craft Talk sometime in the future. That’s where Tom and I get our “special” magazines. Sammy continues to work on Community Wellness Day in his tireless and up beat manner and keeps bring us checks. Go Sammy go. Speaker (Zeb Barnes) Elyse introduced our speaker who was a very handsome young man who has started his own business; which is to deliver Pet products to homes so that Seniors (who can’t handle the big bags of food for their dogs) did not have to go out to the store and lug them home. He personally delivers Pet Products and carries the bags and other items into the homes and make friends with the Pets, along with the homeowner. He brings treats. He’s a Candy man. Elyse says she met him because he also is a UPS driver and delivers packages to her office. My guess is he also delivers Pet Products to her home. She doesn’t have any Pet’s at home, but hey, he is a good looking guy and I think she bought a gold fish and he delivers the food, right to her door….early…in the morning…the fish gets hungry very early. He brings treats. Well, enough of that. This was a very sharp you guy with ambition. He has a “quiet and organized and methodical” drive to be an “Entrepreneur” . (Tom is looking this up now, he thinks it is French, I have him confused now with the different languages in the Bulletins). Many of us in that room can relate to that drive. It is not always fun being an “Entrepreneur” , and you can miss some paychecks along the way; but you are your own boss and you can come and go as you please. That usually means you are the first person in and the last to leave because you have to make the coffee in the morning and clean the restrooms before you go home, but hey, you are an entrepreneur. It’s like the guy that cleans up after the Elephants in a parade and his friends tell him he should get a better job and he says, “What, and get out of Show Biz, no way”. I am an Entrepreneur and the last regular pay check I had was in 1969. My Salary was $550 per month and I had an apartment overlooking Lake Michigan, drank good scotch, and a gallon of gas was 25 Cents. Oh well, times change. I am sure Zeb will find a way to make it, and some day big. He said all the right things in a very humble (but confident) way. He listens to motivational tapes when he is driving. He answered questions thoughtfully and with good cheer. He was a winner and thanks Elyse for “finding” him. Good Friday Breakfast I know this is not an “official” Rotary Event, but it should be. It has Rotary written all over it from the Past Mayors to the MC. I was so proud to be a Rotarian at this event and I know all of us felt the same. Joe Harding was the MC, The Maestro, the Ring Master, and (dare I say it) The Supreme Commander (at least at this meeting). Melissa Sang, Len Pledged, the Speaker (Olympian Peter Vidmar Gold and Silver Medalist at the 1984 Olympics) was related to the Briney’s When Joe wasn’t making the crowd laugh or cry, Marsha took over with her quick wit and performed for the crowd which featured….”her Mom from Indiana”. There is nothing like a “Mom from Indiana” to make Marsha happy, and she was. Everything was flawless. Marsha you are funny and quick and a natural in front of a crowd. You and Joe make a great team. The Singers from the High School were pitch perfect and guess what…Toms Daughter was one of those chosen to perform. I sat next to Tom and asked him if his household was like the Von Trapp Family from the Sound of Music. Did he wear a pair of Lederhosen and a little Swiss cap around the house -- especially when he was feeling frisky. He grinned and was real proud of his daughter. When Tom gets emotional, he gets quiet. (We should get him emotional more often). He looked at his daughter, grinned, and life was good. They Choir sang and no one spoke a word. My wife was filled with Easter joy. I know it. It carried throughout the day and into the evening and Easter Sunday. It was a great begging of a Good Day: A Good Friday Day. Thank you Rotary. Peter Vidmar was exceptional. He made us all realize what it takes to be a Champion. You can never give up or give in. No matter how tough things are…you go on. The striving for excellence is a great elixir…and worth it. He humanized his Journey to the top with some great personal stories. He scored a couple of perfect 10’s at the Olympics, and scored a 10 with us. Joe engineered his way through humor, emotion, sadness, repartee, jokes that worked, and jokes that didn’t. He was confident, yet humble. This was Joe’s finest hour At the end of the event Joe told us of the Sale of The Hacienda, the home of Rotary Meetings long before some members were born. This has been the Sanctuary of us for a long time. This Breakfast has become an El Segundo Tradition with few rivals honoring our past Mayors (Floyd, Dick, and Sandy) and a nice uplifting and peaceful beginning of the Easter weekend. Joe ended with one of his Favorite Poems and Poets. (I didn’t catch the name but as you read this Joe please remember to send me his name and the name of the Poem, it was pretty neat). Poems confuse me some times. You get beyond some of my Favorites from Dr. Seuss and I get a little lost. I asked Tom who his favorite poet was and he mentioned Willie Nelson and a few Limerick types that you say in a bar when you have had a few too many drinks and the girls get up and leave the table. But, Joe judged the group right and read his poem. It was great. I think it had to do with building a bridge “after” you cross over the river to help those that may come after you. It was the perfect end to a perfect 90 minutes and Joe, you get a 10. Thank you for letting me be a part. |
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EL SEGUNDO ROTARY MEETING OF 3-21-2013 "Lets get healthy" by Cub Reporter Jack WeberThe Meeting As most of you know, I am the CUB reporter who stands in for the awesome Gary Wilson. Gary emailed
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Reunión Rotario de 20 de marzo 2013 Sandy goes to Mexico, by Don Juan de los WilsonReunión Rotario de 20 de marzo 2013
El Programa Nuestro propio Jacobs arena fue el programa para el día y ella estaba allí para hablar con nosotros acerca de su reciente viaje a Guaymas, y nos dará mucho de la historia de esa ciudad con la ciudad de El Segundo. Se remonta un largo camino. Fue divertido ver a prepararse. Se trataba de un ex alcalde de El Segundo y el Ciudadano del Año junto con montones y montones de participaciones y Presidencia con varios grupos cívicos, y ella dijo que era ... nervioso. Creo que es lindo. Ella es linda. Me gusta. Sandy estaba allí por mes y lo puso en una presentación de diapositivas en Power Point ... para ser exactos. Eso puede ser desalentador si usted es nuevo en él y se pasaba todo el día en su preparación. (Dudo que nuestro pendejo, el Comandante Supremo, que pasa mucho tiempo en la preparación de una presentación). Kevin también tiene un gran interés en Guaymas y ha estado allí muchas veces, y esto no fue una excepción. Él les trajo un camión de bomberos a un año. La ciudad de El Segundo nunca supo que estaba perdido. No creo que él sabía cómo manejarlo sin embargo. Con frecuencia se representa a la Ciudad de El Segundo en varias visitas y funciones. Él disfruta de la comida, la bebida, y las mujeres. Pero esa es otra historia. Hay dos "compañeros" Clubes Rotarios de Guaymas, se habla Inglés, y el otro habla español. Decidimos hacer este Boletín en español. Carl y Sandy se quedó en un apartamento con una hermosa vista del Mar de Cortés. Era inusualmente frío en esta época y no había calefacción en el apartamento, pero no fue hasta $ 1,150 por mes. Algunas de las cosas que hemos dado a Guaymas son:
Hubo un momento en que un poco de dinero fue un largo camino para hacer las cosas de viaje a México, pero ya no. Sandy se le preguntó si se sentía a salvo y ella dijo que sí, pero mantuvo a los lugares que estaban familiarizados con ella y no involucrarse en cosas que no eran asunto suyo. Ella nos habló de "local" aduana al salir de una tienda de comestibles que conseguir un poco de "ayuda" cargar su carro con las maletas. Sandy ellos puntas 12 pesos es por la ayuda, Carl pagado bolsa por el peso de 12 años. Carl estaba en la ruina todo el tiempo. Cuando trataron de hablar español con la gente del lugar, fueron corregidos por los lugareños. Me pregunto qué harían con este Boletín. Sandy, gracias por toda su preparación y trabajo y una gran presentación en la ciudad que ha significado tanto para El Segundo paso de los años. En conclusión Julia dio un breve bastante bonito (sí Julia) habla acerca de cómo Sandy ha mantenido esta relación maravillosa pasando por tantos años y cuánto ha contribuido por sí misma ya los demás. Thanks for Coming |
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Rotary Meeting of March 7, 2013 “Podium Poachers Take Over” by Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditorVisitors Kevin introduced Mark Hammil(sp) a visitor who is a Financial Advisor and his father was a Rotarian. Looking for opportunities to get involved in the community. Chuck Perlis “visited”. This visitor attends much more than some of our members. Jack introduced Derick King who visited from from a local Aircraft company here in town. His father was here a few weeks ago and they seem to be interested in a company sponsorship. Derick was really a good sport and participated willingly and freely with the group. He volunteered to be a member of one of Joe and Elyses sample groups that frequently are made to look foolish. Tom is there Supreme Commander. Recognition (Joe did some “finin”) and the business part of the meeting. Dick Van Vranken (who is on the Board of the Herald Publication in town) was told that the front page of the paper had a photo taken by him (Joe), yet credit was given to another. Dick, who doesn’t read his paper and certainly doesn’t proof it, said he would have a big article in next week’s paper giving the credit where it belongs. My guess is that won’t happen. Laura got recognized vicariously because her sons’ picture was in the paper. Elyse got recognized for going to a Hockey game, and ran into Joe in the lobby. “What’s the odds of that”. Her favorite part of the hockey is the fights. It figures. Julie S. brought the raffle prizes. Thanks Melissa told the joke. Thanks Dean and Tom went to the Chamber Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at the El Segundo Athletic Club Julie accepted a stipend for the Little League. There are 365 kids in the league along with the Challenger Team of special needs kids. Clair was the sponsor of the Challenger team in the past, but because of her special circumstances she is unable to continue that. Kevin decided to take over that responsibility. Thanks to Clair for all she was able to do for 4 years and thanks to Kevin for what he is about to do by taking over. (Rotarians at work helping others to a better life) The Program This was about RYLA. The program is for kids(and Rotarians) to learn leadership skills and to get out of your comfort zone.. Joe and Elyse have been doing this for a long time and they “beam” when they do it together. Lead that is. However a problem did occur that they solved even before the meeting started. Question: When you have two Podium Poachers who want to speak, how many Podiums do you need? Answer of course is 2. And that is what they did. One of our other Podium Poachers (Julia) tried to make it a Troika but couldn't pull it off. Joe and Elyse decided to have each of them on each end of the room, and for the most part they did not talk over each other. Nice job. It was like watching a Tennis Match. All love. They taught us a number of very valuable things but I am not sure what they are. Here are a few. First we learned how to make a Peanut Butter Sandwich. I would let you know how this was done, but there were many version of the technique. After reading 5 recipes there was a question and Joe wanted to know “what is missing here”? Like a deer in headlights we all looked at each other and came up with some stupid answers (there are no stupid answers right, well we might have to rethink that). The hidden message is that when you communicate questions or instructions to someone; give them enough specific information about what needs to be done so there would be no misunderstanding. We were also given a pencil and paper. Then, we were given the assignment to draw a picture of a “Triangalope”. Elsye barked instructions like “has body like a triangle”, “has 4 large holes, and 4 small holes”, “has a tail with fur on it”, “feet with 3 toes” etc. etc. We all drew our Triangalope pictures separately from the same instructions and for the most part they were all different. Dick kept looking over my shoulder at my Trianleope and pretty much copied mine. He was still working on his Peanut Butter and Jellie Sandwich which looked like a banana taco. Tom's picture looked like a Banana chasing a Doughnut. Freud would have a lot of fun with that Supreme Commander. I had the best Triangleope in the building that day. It looked like Tom without the hair on the tail, otherwise… Dick’s looked exactly like mine and I saw it for sale on Ebay yesterday. That should fetch quite a bit. We had some other exercises where we had to do a task but could not talk to each other. No spoken language We never thought that you could write messages...same things just slower. Think outside the box, or there is no box as Joe likes to say. The task had something to do with our birth dates and you had to line up according to your age. Shannon jumped in front, Claire jumped right behind her. If they were the only two in line then that would have worked both forwards and backwards, but unfortunately there were 4 others no knowing what to do because they couldn't talk. Kevin took out his drivers license (or maybe it was his Fire Badge) to show it to the others. I hope that is what he was doing. Our good sport Visitor Derick was kinda thinking “what the hell I am doing here. My father really set me up”. Fundamentally it was all about “communications” and “leadership”. Sometimes you lead, sometimes you follow, sometimes you are bewildered, and sometimes you are a Rotarian and do them all....and laugh. And laugh we did. We heard little from our President Elect as we floundered through our tasks and he shook his head and no doubt was thinking that next year is going to be a very tough year. He is looking for Leadership and he gets peanut butter. He needed to reach out to Derick and make sure he did not get a way Perhaps Derick is smart. The man with one eye is king in the valley of the blind. Well, my time is up and we just got a new Pope. It is time to make a Peanut Butter and Trianglealope Sandwich. Very tasty, but tough. I think it would be good in the slow cooker first and perhaps Joe could have it on the menu for our next meeting. Parting Thoughts EXTRA: We have a new Pope, his chose name is Francis. Question: Who is higher, the Supreme Commander or the Pope. Tom will answer that at the next meeting. Tom is a Catholic, or at least he goes to the Catholic Church here in town to watch me stand up and sit down a dozen or so times. Mary takes me there from time to time on the condition that I can’t tell anyone that I am her husband. I like going to church, I feel better afterward. God is a good thing.
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Rotary Meeting of Feb 28, 2013 "Say it Ain't So Joe" and “Len starts making his presence known” by Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditorThe Meeting Len went to PETS (President Elect Training) and was really excited. He along with over 500 other “President Elects” attended. He gave a little Presidential like speech extemporaneously about his experience. I listened carefully to him because we will be hearing from him for a full year and I wanted to make sure whether I should bring my Iphone and Head Set for 52 weeks. He has a very nice speaking voice, is quick on is feet, can take a joke with good cheer, and I didn’t hear one “ahh” or “um”. He appeared confident. He talked about Pets, gave us lots of information, and knew when to stop talking. (He also made a comment during the Program about the Latrine Project which was very funny. He used a swear word that began with S. I can't say it here because I am a gentleman). PETS started at 7AM in the morning and had lots of classes and motivational speakers. He said he will be overthrowing the Supreme Commander on July 1 and looked forward to it. Most "President Elects" in attendance wanted to make major changes. He told us how much he loved our club just the way it is. He likes us just the way we are. He got a nice long applause for that, Rotarian's like to clap for themselves. He has now been initiated because we made fun of him and insulted him, and will continue to do so. He doesn't want any short jokes however. I wonder why. So, no short jokes it is from this Bulletin Editor. No sir. (He did look a little Napoleonic to me, but that’s another story, perhaps a short story). Doug came again for the second time as a possible new member. Clair is his sponsor. He owns the El Segundo Athletic Club and Restaurant. I am a member of that club and it is very nice. It was great to see Eng and Francis, (fellow Rotarians), come to a meeting. Like many of us they have struggled through this recession, which is still going on by most accounts. Joe Clark Died Another fallen Rotarian hero and Past President went for some tests for a heart valve…and died. He joined Phil in heaven a week ago on Monday.. I believe. He hit the top button on the elevator marked (I) for infinity and went right to heaven to be with Phil and many other fallen Rotarian Heroes of mine from our club. He didn't have to stop in between like some of us may need to do before we get “in”. I will be on 2 for a while, just a little ahead of Tom. He probably already is sitting with Paul Harris now trying to work out some sort of Mail Delivery between our two worlds. Many of our new Rotarians probably don’t know that Joe was the Postmaster of El Segundo for many years. If a letter was late, he would hear about it….at Rotary. If you got your neighbors mail, you didn't bring it to your neighbor, you brought it to Rotary and gave it to Joe…in front of everyone to embarrass him. Joe would laugh the most. He was always fun and happy. Joe was always such a good sport. When someone dies that I know I always think carefully about them and re figure my feelings about them...and try to understand them better. I try to become a better person myself. Joe Clark is a simple name with just 8 letters. There are probably thousands with that name throughout America…,maybe hundreds of thousands. I think that Joe's way of life was fairly simple. His values spoke for them self, and he wore them well. Joe Clark always made me smile and made me happy. He never talked negative about anyone. Never. He never took a cheap shot behind anyone’s back. Never. He liked everyone, and I mean everyone. He liked Tom. He was always the first to congratulate you when you did something good. Even if you didn't do something good he would congratulate you on trying. That’s the way he was. A good good guy. He loved demotion parties and rarely missed one. He took major roles in these from time to time and while he traveled a lot and often times could not make our “rehersals” he always said “Gary, write me in. I don’t care what role you put me in, I will be there". Tell me what to do and I will do it, and he did”. Well we dressed him up, put dresses on him, died his hair, and even made him a Judge which he played very well at Julia’s demotion which was like the OJ Simpson Trial. He played Judge Lance Ito and we had many “side bars” as they do in court, and guess what we did in our side “bars”. Yep, we had some drinks. Throughout the “trial” we had them again and again….what fun. And that was Joe. Again.....What a good guy he was and I will miss his good cheer. The Program Len is President of the UCLA Alumni Association (Engineers) along with becoming the New Rotarian President. (So much for retirement Len) Charlotte and David -- Student Engineers doing projects around the world. Two of the Student Engineers from UCLA had some projects in Nicaragua and Guatemala and wanted to tell us about them. The Guatemala Project was about building water holding tanks to gather water from rain and making it potable so that the water source is now very local. Before these tanks the locals would have to walk miles to rivers with big pots and bring it back for the days need, every day. Kids did it rather than go to school. This is a little like Tom not having beer in his house and would have to walk to the liquor store every day for a 12 pack. Sometimes twice a day. Having a Keg in the yard would be the easy answer, but he has a large refrigerator so he is OK. The Nicaragua Project was about Latrine construction. Tough duty if you ask me. However, most Rotarians know that the very first Pubic Project was building public toilets in Chicago. I am not sure how public a toilet should be, but that is what Paul Harris and his group did with the first of our donated money. Here we are 100 years later helping to build toilets. No recession in that business is there. I don’t know why, but I kinda thought all houses and buildings had indoor toilets. Not so. I am staying right here in El Segundo That's enough for now. Letter to the Editor.. Note: Hi Gary-- Could you please put in the bulletin the Little League baseball game the club will be attending? The club is sponsoring Cooper's team, the AAA Angels. The game we will attend is Sunday, March 23rd at 3:30pm at Brett Field on Sheldon St. and Pine Ave. We will be providing either pizza or hot dogs after the game and this year we will forgo the goody bags as the boys are getting a bit old for them I think.
Thanks, Julie |
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Rotary Meeting of 2-7-2013 “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times”, by Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditorThe Meeting We didn’t have much of a “meeting” per se since we had so many performers. Jim (Mr. Rothstein) was a visitor and he brought the President of his local club to see how running a meeting was done and he was there to observe Tom. I think he quit from Rotary the following day. Chris Reiman (President of Interact) talked to us from the podium briefly about changes that he and his board are planning on implementing in the high school club. He eyed Tom’s gavel, Tom was nervous and Dave was proud. Dave is Chris’s Father and scored a touchdown once, but now he is just known as Chris’s Dad and Chris takes care of him. We had a potential new member and I cannot remember his name, and Jokemaster Jack introduced him. Jack told the joke and picked one suitable for minors. It was. I sat across from Peter Gianusso who is President of the El Segundo Girls Softball team and is the IT Manager for Prudential Pacific. He gave an extemporaneous speech about Softball and what the “team” means to youth growing up. He indicated that it was not about winning, but about building character. (Oh, by the way the girls won the championship). I thought he would be an excellent Rotarian and told him so, and put on a little extemporaneous recruiting presentation of my own. It turns out he knows a number of Rotarians and serves on the Softball Board with Julie Stolnack. I am assuming Julie will see him from time to time and invite him back. The Program And life goes on. We bid a good friend good bye one week, and then youth in our community come to visit and they have their entire lives before them. Life goes on. They were there to perform, to compete, and maybe walk away with a few bucks in their pocket. They were nervous.
1st Tobi Ku 2nd Lianna England 3rd Tania Bustaments
Music 1st Christian Alva 2nd James Dahl 3rd Nicholas Muzuk We didn't have a meeting last week because we had a combined meeting with Manhattan Beach. I for one forgot. I will bet I am not the only one. I use to like to make up and see what other clubs are doing. If anyone wants to “team up” on a Tuesday or Wednesday and go visit another club, let me know. I am game for that. I don’t suppose it would be appropriate for us to do that on a Thursday, but let’s see how interesting the meetings are for the new year and make up our minds later. “Love ya, Tom. Let’s do lunch some time. I’ll have my girl call your girl. We’ll set something up. Love ya mean it. Call me maybe” |
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Rotary Meeting of Feb. 2, 2013 “Last Call” by Gary Wilson, Bulletin Editor and additional information by Jack Weber and Nancy Cobb, Cub Reporters“The Moving Finger writes; and, having writ, Moves on: nor all thy Piety nor Wit Shall lure it back to cancel half a Line, Nor all thy Tears wash out a Word of it….” Omar Khayyam (The Profit) Phil is gone. Life begins, and then it ends.
Addendum From Nancy and Jack Rotary Art/Music/Speech Contests 2013
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Rotary Meeting of 1-24-2013 "Etiquette" by Gary Wilson and Mystery Ride by Jack WeberThe Meeting
Last Thursday’s Mystery Ride (be at the Hacienda no later than 6 PM) , Mystery Dinner, Mystery Restaurant
Mystery Exposed
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El Segundo Rotary Bulletin of 1-17-13 "Fire Chief Avoids Embarassing Moment -- Temporarily" by Jack Weber, Cub ReporterPre Amble
The sage who usually writes this column predicted that Kevin would not show up at the meeting on as it was going to be presented by a manners expert and most of it would be directed at Kevin’s table manners. As it turns out, Kevin did come to the meeting but the date for the manners presentation was The Meeting 1. Neil Perkey attended (the landlord for the building in which Barrister Reimann has his office). Hmmm, I wonder what the other tenants are like. This was the third visit for Neil. I hope he indicates to Dean that he wants to join us. Dave was right – Neil is a really good guy. 2. Sammy Pyon (Dr. Pyon’s Chiropractic practice is located at 100 West Imperial Ave., Suite N) brought us up to date on his plans for a Community Wellness Day. It is the 2nd annual Community Wellness Day organized by him. This year it is scheduled for June 1 st, 2013 from 10 3. Our loveable SUPREME COMMANDER exercised (and flexed his muscles) appointing himself, Jeami Duncan and Jack Weber as tri-platoon leaders to tackle the Mad March annual project. We will be starting the planning this next week and if there are any volunteers, please let us 4. Kevin Smith asked for our urgent attention to the Blood Drive. There is a shortage of blood and it is approaching a major crisis. Kevin said the shortage has become dangerously critical. The blood drive Is on January 31st from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Fire Station No. 1, 314 Main St. Walk ins The Program Our speaker du jour was our own Eng Teoh-Szetho. She is the owner and President of Team Handling Services, Inc. They are import-export Customs brokers acting for and serving as advisors to importers regarding in the sequencing of custom formalities and requirement. They perform the details that are critical to the speedy and legal exporting and importing of goods. Eng is the licensed import-export broker in her firm. She explained some of the intricacies of her
Jack Weber, Cub Reporter |
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Rotary Meeting of January 10, 2013 - "There is something Fishy Here", by Gary Wilson, Bulletin Editor.The Meeting
I noticed Julia came in a bit late with her “Navy Seal -- Bill”. She immediately noticed the shallow tank with a Sting Ray, which went up and down…up and down….up and down…and on and on and on. This sting ray (and most sting rays) had a perpetual smile on his “face”. Julia stooped down low and took his picture. He smiled, Julia smiled back, I smiled. A very nice Sting Ray he was. He got his picture taken. Not the first time I would guess. I wonder what his name might be? Must be Ed, or perhaps Ernie. No, Earl. (Boy do I need a life) What do sting ray’s eat you might ask? I am also glad I just looked that up now rather than before. Here is what they eat.
Next Meeting
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Rotary Meeting of Dec. 13, 2012 “To Drink, or not to Drink, that is the question” by Gary Wilson, Bulletin Editor.Pre Meeting Because of the falling of the holidays we did not meet the last 2 Thursdays in the year, so our last meeting was at the West Basin Municipal District Reclamation Plant on the 13th. Dick and Julie Stolnack went to the Hacienda last week and had a meeting, and Len went to the Aquarium. 2 Past Presidents and our next President were confused. Life is indeed confusing. The next thing you know we will be recycling our own bodily fluids. A few of us (Tom, Len, and myself) got to the facility early and had to use the rest room before the meeting. It looked like a typical mens room, but standing there at the urinal one was forced to think about “where actually did this wastewater go when you were through”. Would we see it again before the end of the day? I decided not to go at that time figuring I could wait til after the meeting when I was home. Tom, however relieved himself and was quite proud, Supreme Commander and “P” leader that he is. He is like a Rooster The Meeting at the West Basin Municipal District Reclamation Plant When we arrived we were treated to a lunch by the plant with some familiar soft drinks that had lids on them and water with labels. I checked carefully. Then we watched a funny movie with the actor Jack Black learning about how that “reclaimed” water comes to be drinking water once again. The movie talked about a potentially new bottled water product called “Porcelain Springs Water”, which we all sampled later in the day. At least I think we all sampled it. Some of us had to “man up”. Elyse told me a number of times during the tour that she didn’t need water like most people and rarely drank it anyway. I think she was just managing my expectations on whether she was going to drink or not. I don’t know if she drank it nor if everyone did. Later in the tour I believe we learned that this “water reclamation” could happen fairly quickly and wondered if Tom perhaps could have supplied some of our sample that very day. Some of us now are talking with a little bit of a southern accent and whistling Dixie from time to time. Just maybe there is a little Supreme Commander in all of us now, but this too shall pass. We had about 15 members show up and I assume those of you that could not attend did so because you knew where the plant “reclaimed” the water from and decided to be sick that day before the meeting rather than after. In any event we toured pretty much the whole facility and I noticed a few things that there were porto poddies every where…disproportionally so. It is almost like the designers said let’s not pass up and opportunity to get more “product”. We learned all about filtration and how it works. Quite frankly the day was very interesting and if you haven’t taken the tour you should. You are looking at the future of our planet. Drive a Prius, order Porcelain Springs Water with your home grown vegetables which you harvest in the nude. Quite a life, yes sir re. I think I am a Liberal now. I think I need to eat some nuts and seeds too. This week we go on another field trip and go to the Manhattan Beach Aquarium. Bring your signed parents approval for the bus ride. We are meeting at the Round House Aquarium at the end of the Manhattan Beach pier this week. We will have a private tour and lunch outside on the pier. Queen Elyse Beardsley is bringing lunch. Joe Harding and the Hacienda Hotel will be providing transportation to pier with a Hacienda Shuttle Bus. The bus will be leaving from the front of the Hotel at 11:45 sharp. The bus returns from the pier a 1:15. See you there. |
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Rotary Meeting of Dec. 13, 2012 “Tom is the Meeting and the Program”, by Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditorThe Meeting, The Program, and the Comments Fining Finemaster and our own Barrister Dave fined the Supreme Commander for having a very accomplished son who runs Cross Country for the High School and won the Coach’s trophy. Tom, the Proud father accepted the fine as if he had something to do with it. Perhaps he did, Tom is so humble. Phil got fined for “sitting” during the Holiday Parade. He likes to sit. I didn’t know that was a finable offence so I had better get my finances in order. Elyse and Julie got fined. Elyse stopped her car on (or just off the freeway). When asked why she stopped her car she said she did so when she saw the flashing red lights in her rearview mirror, which interrupted her freeway phone call. I hate it when that happens. The only other time something similar to that happened is when she crossed over the double line to get into the passenger lane. Oh, she had no passenger either. Oh boy! Speaking of driving -- Julie Warner was driving the wrong way on a one way street In a School Zone. Her defense was that school wasn’t in session. Oh boy again! They were both fined for the fine work they did with the Holiday Parade in El Segundo. They have been involved or in charge for over 10 years. Julie was the “”Supreme Commandorette” of the Holiday Parade. Elyse, with her great experiences with cars as illustrated above, was of course in charge of “Cars”. Oh boy! Dave, in his innocent kindness decided to limit or pay their fines. Floyd said Dave sounded more like a politician than a lawyer. Since Dave was going to pay for everything it must have been a Liberal Marsha got fined as well. Marsha and Randy sang 2 songs over, and over, and over, and over, and over….probably 100 times. “Let it Snow “ and “Winter Wonderland”. A couple of real toe tappers, but 100 times. That’s the neat thing about a parade…your audience changes about every 100 feet or so. Dave only could fine one day in the month. He actually had a 3 ring binder with notes (they were typewritten and had indexed tabs, just like he would in a court of law). It was fun to watch him work as he “built his case” for the fines as a lawyer would do. Another great finemaster. Joke of the Day and Birthdays and Anniversaries
Guests Elyse brought some Interactors and as usual had to introduce themselves. Good practice. Recognition Dave and Clair received recognition for organizing and hosting the Christmas Party. A good time was had by all and all arrived safely home. The Meeting Program Tom tried to show a “District Video” on the computer and ….after about a minute of prodding the computer to go, go, go, he quickly moved back to the “unoccupied” podium as Elyse and Joe set their eyes on a takeover. The Video was a District thing on the easily found on the Web site (www.esrotary.org). I couldn’t find it, but look for it next time you are on the web site. Look for the link to the District site. Tom Tom talked about the changes that the club must implement to keep us “current” and in step in todays’ times. I am not going to elaborate too much on this because I want to make sure we all get it right. I think Tom will spell it out in a future email. Many of us were involved in a couple of special meetings (we were all invited) to give our input on this situation. The highlights are below. · Rename Voluntary Dues to Minimum Dues and will be $10 per month. You can still pay more and that is encouraged. · The room charge will be $5 per week or another $20 per month. · Lunch’s will be $15 per month. We need 20 lunch’s per month. · The Hacienda is being sold and perhaps we will need a new place to meet. · Revamp Mad March Mixer – Idea’s were tossed around. · We need someone to mentor with Ted and eventually take over the Treasurers role. Ted can meet with you on his Yacht in the Marina to discuss with you. It is Birth 32 near his parked Bentley. (Being a Treasurer is not a bad job in the club so one of us needs to come forward). · Mural on Main Street coming up. |
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Rotary Meeting of Dec. 6, 2012 Singing from Park Vista by Jack Weber, Assistant Bulletin Editor
PARK VISTA HOLIDAY LUNCHEON, by Jack Weber
On Thursday, December 6th, the El Segundo Rotary held the annual Holiday Luncheon for the
Picture below is Past President Dick talking to a Future President Dean asking: "Dean, can you bring back the Cigars and Strippers, those were the good old days." Dean said "Yea Dick I can and will" There is not too many "Guy Singers", why is that? |
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El Segundo Rotary Meeting of Nov. 29, 2012 (The End of the NRG Saga) by Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditorThe Meeting Meeting starts at 12:15 and Tom called the meeting to order at that time. We said the pledge and had a poignant thought (as much as Tom could muster) and then…disorder took over. Elyse arrived with an entourage or Roteractors and Tom showed “patience”, not something he is prone to doing. He quietly took the room in…and let Elyse and others “work the room” as she is prone to doing upon her entrance, and then Tom calmly rang the bell again…settled us down. He has become comfortable in his role. I remember Melissa saying you really don’t run a Rotary meeting, you kind of guide it to it’s proper conclusion. Tom get’s it, and is now “Presidential”. That’s all the sucking up I am going to do, and please don’t hug me again. Thank God we have the Sr. Center tomorrow. Tom can give and get all the hugs he wants. No inappropriate touching however. Tom brought a visitor named Neil, and he manages Dave Reiman’s building as a Property Manager. Their sons are in various activities in El Segundo together and have known each other for some time. They seem to like each other. Perhaps he doesn’t know Tom all that well. He may be interested in becoming a member. He also knew(knows) Elyse. Elyse tried to take the credit for bringing Neil, poaching is a better term, but let Neil choose himself who his sponsor might be. Neil chose the power of the Presidency…Tom. Alex brought another “inspector” who was going to be our program. He knew many people in the room and was widely “liked” by everyone. His name was Steve. I don’t know too many regulators or inspectors -- and prefer to keep it that way. This guy did seem kind of special and very likable. Many in the room knew him, liked him, and respected him. He could probably shut your business down if you were not in “compliance”, so liking him may be mandatory, certainly advisable. The Joke of the day was told by Julie Stollnack. She chose “clean” because of the youth in the room, and out of respect for Mormon Mike, who told “the rowdy corner” some risqué Mormon jokes. They were funny, but risqué is way too strong a word. Does Mike have the jokes for a month somewhere down the road? I think he would be excellent in that role. Gary, Nancy, Jack, and Sandy meet “secretly” but you are all invited to solve the problems of the world. We have dealt with World Hunger, Presidential Elections, War, Sequestration, the Fiscal Cliff, Catholics, Muslims, Jews, Jefferson, Truman, Obama, Bush, Reagan, Unions, movies, and TV. We agree on a few things (favorite TV shows seem to be “The Good Wife”, “Blue Bloods”, and “Homeland” and “Revenge”…just in case you are interested). You are always invited and we meet Wed. morning at 8:30 at Schats. Podium poacher Elyse did some fining. She fined the guest $20. Not sure why. She fined Alex for some “secret” meetings he was having with fellow Rotarians. She fined Gary, Nancy, Jack, and Sandy for “secret meetings” as well. Well, they are not too secret. Gary, Nancy, Jack, and Sandy meet “secretly” but you are all invited to solve the problems of the world. We have dealt with World Hunger, Presidential Elections, War, Sequestration, the Fiscal Cliff, Catholics, Muslims, Jews, Jefferson, Truman, Obama, Bush, Reagan, Unions, movies, sex and TV(that was this week). We agree on a few things (favorite TV shows seem to be “The Good Wife”, “Blue Bloods”, “Homeland” and “Revenge”…just in case you are interested. We also agreed on a “news show” that is indeed “fair and balanced”, its “Cup of Joe on early in the morning on MSNBC of all channels). You are always invited and we meet Wed. morning at 8:30 at Schats. Michelle Rogers bought the fining bling for Dave Reiman for the month of December. Possibly a defensive move or perhaps we will see some new talent in Dave’s quiver. He always amazes me with his humility and then just “nails it” … whatever it is. He “sorta” nailed a Rap Song at the Demotion Party, but he need not quit his day job. I wonder if he ever played football. As conservative as he looks, he’ll try anything. Not sure if Dave has had the privilege of fining before, but he will no doubt do a good job with this seemingly easy task. Dates and Announcements This week’s meeting is at the Seniors Center. Someone please make sure we all get out. Christmas Party Dec. 7, at Chef Hannas, then to Clair’s house for gifts, deserts, and perhaps a few more adult beverages. Bring deserts that do not have to be refrigerated. Holiday Parade on Dec. 9th and we need Rotarians to walk in the parade and hand out candy to the masses. Tom has some left over Halloween Candy for the parade. It figures. It’s Christmas Tom, candy canes etc. Dec. 15 (from 9 to 1) paint the Center Street School “fund raising wall”. Joe works real hard on this project so let’s give him support. Julie has an intern “available” to help some local business men (or women). No comment. Tom invited all of us to visit our Rotary Web site (www.esrotary.org). He is quite proud of it and quite frankly he has done a great job building it and promoting it. I think these computers and web sites are here to stay. Go take a look. Major Announcement Dean is going to be the next President after Len. The two of them are both UCLA Grads. (USC, where are you?) He received a loud ovation. He is another very talented and humble fellow Rotarian and is very popular with others. Congratulations Dean. The Program As mentioned earlier and in the headline this was the end of the NRG saga for the month and this guy (His name is Steve) was from our Fire Department and he watches the watchers. We have learned that the Energy Business is highly regulated, has lots of people making sure we don’t do anything wrong, and people watch the watchers. He is watching you. I am not going to say any more. |
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Rotary Meeting of 11-15-2012 "Full House and NRG Compliance Officer" by Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditorThe Meeting Tom made a few bucks with Pins and Badges. This was the first time I wore both, I am clean. He picked a bit on Kevin, nice to take the heat off of me for a change. Go Kevin. Tom took me to the Chamber Mixer at Mattel this week as his date. He behaved…sort of. We giggled a bit and talked behind peoples back. What a mixer, what food, thanks Marsha and Mattel. You do it right. Speaking of RIGHT, the got the El Segundo Citizen of the Year right…our own Sandy Jacobs. Was she surprised or what, but she was the only one in the room that was surprised. Everyone else was sure she had won it before. She is so neat and if you don’t know her very well take the time. You will meet a very smart and savvy and compassionate person. Congratulations Sandy, well deserved. There was a Full House for the Meeting. Standing Room Only. Elyse did some fining of those that attended the Distinguished Speaker Series and saw Vicente Fox, former president of Mexico. Michelle, Julie, Joe and Sandy, and Marsha and Lily all had attended . Make drugs legal was the message from Vicente and poverty is the biggest problem in the world. Every one was impressed with him. How much do you know about your neighbors to the South, and to the North for that matter. Can you tell me how many states there are in Mexico, and how many provinces there are in Canada? Can you name them in either direction? It is a good time to go to Wickipedia if you don’t. Joe got fined twice. Good. It’s about time we turned the table. As one who get’s fined a fair bit I was glad to see Mr. Confidence catch a little crap. Mr. Oreo Fetish I call him. He Oggles Oreo's every chance he gets. Elyse has a new cat named…guess what -- Oreo. Joe was going to check him out and Elyse told him not to eat her cat. "Cat Oreo’s" …I don’t think they will catch on. It was nice to see Jeami again. She looked great and has moved to another part of town. Elyse apparently had something to do with that, and being the “Fine Master” -- she fined Jeami. There was a lovely and lively repartee between Jeami and Elyse. You’re good at it Elyse, and Jeami is very good at being the straight “man” for Elyse. Well done. Lorena was there. We don’t see here that often, but did you know that she was once the Rotarian of the Year. Well-deserved I might ad. I got to sit by her. I think Dick dumped me. Lorena is much better looking than Dick. No offense Dick. Pretty is Pretty. Laura got fined too. Miss Alabama always gets fined. Laura had some long, long high heals. I think they have a nick name but I can’t say it here. She showed them to the crowd and she was going to model them that evening at the Girls Night Out event raising money for the Ed Foundation. Tom and I didn't go to that event to see. Perhaps Laura can wear them to the next Rotary Meeting. My guess is she would get fined again. Kevin got fined for having the fire guys in raincoats (Julie Warner got excited thinking that was all they had on) raising money for the MDA -- $20,000 plus each year. Raincoats only, hmmm. Julie was going to go by the corner again to make a donation., and perhaps again. She is sooo generous.. The Tree musketeer’s thanked us for $500 donation. Dean gave some cards out. One to Penny who had a Birthday, and Lorena had an anniversary. Penny’s card was very funny (one of Floyds), Dean’s card was sentimental…and sweet, like Dean. (Thanks for the ride today Dean. If you haven't been to Dean's office in the center of town, you should. He is a collector and a sports enthusiest and will make you feel very much at home. Bring your check book and he will invest your money for you. Wayne came in a little late, and it was like norm coming into “Cheers” as greetings came from around the room. It’s a tough room, and when you come a few minutes late, you will get hazed. Wayne’s cool though. If he could have ordered a Beer(just like Norm) he would have; or perhaps a tequila. A couple of “Julies” each told a very good joke. One was about sleeping with animals, and the other was about large Bra’s. I am not sure guys could tell these jokes today, but women can. Times have changed. Girls tell dirty jokes, and guys share recipe's, niether smokes. No meeting next week because of Thanksgiving. Eat your Turkey at Home or Someone Elses House Announcements:
The Program (Nice Introduction…Go ahead Scott) Scott “Sieple”(sp) Compliance Coordinator. He Oversees the onsite contractors as they relate to "compliance issues", and the site itself for Environmental and Compliance Issues. He also manages the waste management function and the 500 construction guys on site and about 150 Engineers. They all must have additional training on these compliance issues. A Big Job; lots of People; lots of problems to solve; some reasonable, some not so reasonable (my comments). Took 5 years to get the first license, and 5 more years to get a second license. Environmental issues are and/or may be Waste Management; Dust Management; or Clean Air Management in general. As mentioned before All “Contractors” have to go through special Environmental Training. He also looks for Biological, Habitat, Archeology and Relics etc. Any of these issues that become apparent or are discovered, or it is believed that they may exist, can and do shut down the work site till they are resolved with the various compliance agencies.
Well, Thanksgiving is upon us and I am grateful for being a part of Rotary and all my Rotary Friends. Enjoy the next few days, they are very special for all of us in the US. I have some new clients and they came from Russia 7 years ago and they tell me every chance they get how lucky we are to be in America. They are becoming American Citizens and they love this country. They are buying their first house and they are thrilled. They are very grateful and so am I.
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Rotary Meeting of 11-08-2012 “Tom Get’s Frisky with Bulletin Editor; NRG restores order”The Meeting:
The Program Scott Valentino , VP of Development for NRG
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Rotary Meeting of 11-01-2012 "Marine Biologist Captures our Eyes and Ears", by Gary Wilson, Bulletin Editor.The Meeting
The Program
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Rotary Meeting of Oct. 25, 2012 “Gift of Rotary” and “The Leader of The Band”, by Gary Wilson, Bulletin Editor.The Meeting:
The Program:
PS: In the past 3 out of 4 years the valedictorian has come from the band. This Band Leader is a Leader ... Period; and the band is his vehicle to inspire the youth in our community. He doesn't wait for California to come up with funds (he will take them if offered) but goes out and get's his own.
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Rotary Meeting of 10-18-2012 Fire Poster Day (2 ways out) by Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditorWe said the Pledge and then Melissa sang Johnny Appleseed with the group. That’s one of my favorites. As a matter of fact Mary and I sing that quite often at home on the “special nights”. What a great song, I can’t get it out of my head. It is similar to J-ZEE. Kind of a rap song.... …”the sun and the rain and the appleseed”… Melissa let Tom run the rest of the meeting and he did so with much dispatch. Not many announcements. He introduced important dignitaries that attended such as the Superintendent of Schools, The Mayor, and our own Laura, who’s responsibility it was to make it all come together for the kids. She did a great job. …”Oh, the Lord's been good to me”… The “theme” for the posters and the judging was “Two Ways Out”. Tom didn’t mention the names of the wonderful and sensitive Judges that spent hours and hours poring over each poster making sure nothing was overlooked or under appreciated. Those Judges were from the Wednesday morning Coffee Group currently consisting of Gary, Sandy, Jack and Nancy. (8:30AM Wed at Schats) While we were not “recognized” (we don’t do things for recognition…we are Rotarians), we will be gracious and grateful when our stipends arrives in the mail. We judged on the basis of: 1. The Poster had to have marked clearly the theme “Two Ways Out”; 2. It had to be simple to find and/or figure out; and 3. Get your attention quickly. All of the finalists clearly met those criteria. …”Oh and every seed I so”… I got there early and Tom and Laura and Melissa were already at work putting posters on the wall, making sure the food was set up properly and doing those things that ensures a meetings success. “The behind the scenes work” so to speak. All meetings require preparation, and there are “the preparers”. You often times don’t know what they do, but they do, and then they do it again. They are diligent and they “prepare”. Their names change from meeting to meeting(sometimes), but when thought about, they are appreciated. Think about them when you come early into the room of an awaiting meeting. You will know that they have been there and give thanks for those “preparers”. They make the meeting possible. Thanks preparer’s. …”will grow into a tree”… It is always fun to watch the parents arrive with their kids in tow; or is it the other way around. The kids have the carefree look of innocence on their faces. The parents have a more seasoned look, some innocence left, yet the tenseness of a now hurried existence. The kids beam a lot and since they are short, they look up to the award givers in more ways than one. In this case there was Sparky who we don’t know much about. We don’t know what Sparky does in his/her off hours. We wonder, and some of us imagine, but we really don’t know. There is also Tom. We pretty much know what he does. He runs our meetings when Melissa lets him. He thinks he is a “Supreme Commander”. This is some unfulfilled wish from his youth. He got to be that when he was alone late at night in his room with his imaginary friend and a nice little outfit. I wonder if his wife Brenda lets him be the “Supreme Commander” when he goes home. Probably when he takes out the garbage she will call him “Supreme Commander”. The other person that the kids look up to when they get their certificates and swag is Kevin. Kevin really is the fire chief and that costume he wears …really is a Fire Chief’s uniform. The kids look at Kevins kind face and see maturity and confidence. They don’t know Kevin like we do. We saw him at the Demotion Party and we have film should we need it. But the kids don’t know. No need to tell them yet. He's the Chief. …”And someday there’ll be apples there”… Sometimes we forget how neat it was to win an award. I didn’t win a lot, but I did win some and those old trophies, certificates, etc. are buried somewhere in the garage. Whenever I clean the garage every 5 years or so I see them, blow the dust off, and beam again and relive the moment. They don't get thrown out. Stuff like that stays with you for life. It is a remembrance of a simpler time, when the worries were small and hope was great for a brighter tomorrow. Not sure when the innocence ends, but it does, but can also come back. (Look for the novel) …”For everyone in the world to share”… Donations were given by: Grand Point Bank Gift Cards; The Rotary Club gave cash prizes, Big Five donated hats and gift certificates, Andiamo’s fed us all. There was plenty of Pizza for the Kids and their Families; The members of Rotary; The Dignitaries; and for all the Fire Department Members who attended. I didn’t see Sparky eat lunch. (My dog eats Pizza). The Fire Department contributed their time and of course Kevin. The Double Tree donated cookies and lots of them. Let’s thank them all by frequenting their business when we can -- Especially Andiamo’s. There was at least a couple of hundred dollars of Pizza donated. …”Oh the Lord is Good to Me”… Special Note: Did anyone get any pictures of “all the posters that were posted on the back wall”. A mom asked me if I had taken one, and I had not. Email me if you do: garywilson@garywilson.com Dios se acordó de mí, |
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Rotary Meeting 10-11-2012 "Einstein E=MC2" by Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditoThe Meeting The Speaker
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Rotary Meeting of Oct. 4, 2012 – "Top Golf" and"True Golf" by Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditorThe Meeting
The Program - Top Golf (Note: I apologize for the length of this but this is very important to El Segundo)
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Rotary Meeting of 9-27-2012 "It’s time to get healthy .. get goin.."just sayin"", by Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditorThe Meeting
The Program Our Youth
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Rotary Bulletin of 9-13-2012 “Education in Today’s Times – Tough Times”, by Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditorThe Meeting:
The Program:
Remember: NO MEETING THURSDAY BECAUSE OF THE ENDEAVOUR, which has decided to come on Friday. |
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Rotary Meeting of September 6, 2012 “Reiman vs. Reiman” by Gary Wilson, Bulletin EditorThe Meeting
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Rotary Meeting of August 30, 2012 “A Worthy Endeavour"The Meeting Speaking of those in the room, we had the Mayor, the New Counsel Member Dave Atkinson, The Chief of the Police, the Fire Chief, and on and on. There were lots of Police present to view the presentation and our own Carlos came in his SWAT team uniform just in case Tom got out of hand. Tom thought they came to see him -- they did not. They came to hear about “Endeavour”, Los Angeles soon to be “very own Space Shuttle”. I brought a guest that I had met the prior week at the Chamber Mixer at Schat’s. He is a young fella that may be interested in Rotary and his name is Connor Bescos who is an Information Technology guy (Computer Dude) from Premier Systems in El Segundo. Very nice guy. This was a good meeting to take a guest to. He got a chance to see many of the “Top” people in El Segundo, and Tom too. While he did sit next to Dick, he said he would like to come back again. I hope he wasn't just engaging in hyperbole so I am going to call him. His favorite ice crème is Mint Chip. Other visitors in the room also favored the Mint Chip. That’s mine as well. Perhaps some at a future meeting for desert is in order..."just sayin". The Speaker was the Sr. Vice President of Development and Marketing for the California Science Center Foundation, William Harris. You could tell he loved this presentation and loved the very interesting “journey” to bring the Shuttle to LA. It was extremely interesting and a nail biter(even though we knew the outcome) as he outlined the process, and then the countdown waiting for the “decision” phone call that said -- “you got it”. Some facts about our Space Shuttle follow. Space Shuttle Endeavour Endeavour successfully completed 25 missions into space, including the first service mission to the Hubble Space Telescope, as well as the first mission to add a U.S. component to the International Space Station. Specs · Inaugural launch date: May 7, 1992 · Total number of fliers: 173 · Total number of orbits: 4,671 · Total miles traveled: 122,883,151 · Time in space: 299 days · Orbiter length: 122 feet · Orbiter height on runway: 57 feet · Wingspan: 78 feet · Manufacturer: Rockwell International Corporation in Palmdale, California Famous Firsts
Thank you Shirley for making this meeting happen. |
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Rotary Meeting of 8-23-2012 “Drugs” You Never Thought About (at least I haven’t)The Meeting: The Man in Full then recognized two other Worldly Visionaries, Dick Van Vranken and Gary Wilson. He awarded Dick for his steadfast work on updating the Club Roster month after month, year after year; never seeking recompense for his efforts, and proceeding with his work silently for a decade or more. He was made the proud recipient of the “Commodore Award”. This is a new concept for Tom and no doubt will be a coveted award as the year(s) go by and will be part of Tom’s legacy as a President. We obviously are seeking things that will be part of Tom’s legacy and this is about it for now. Gary Wilson, our handsome scribe known as “The Bulletin Editor” also received the “Commodore Award” for turning out a “tome of nothing” each week seeking stories where none exist, and putting it into some sort of framework that is suitable, interesting and important enough to make the reader return the next week for a peek. Those of you that are reading this…thanks for coming back. We both received a nice piece of paper that would be suitable for framing and the award had some very nice words inscribed along with an official seal. It looked like one of those awards Tom had won in his career that almost always had the title: “Certificate of Participation”, followed by a month or year. The award that Tom presented to us said July 2012. Close enough, we do this month after month. Perhaps he was going to make the award last month and just forgot. It is the thought that counts, and maybe a little stipend from time to time...nothing much. Dick and I posed for pictures and received a standing ovation from our fellow Rotarians. Dick was choked up and Tom chortled. I had tears in my eyes and waved at the crowd. Pictures were taken and some wished to pose with the recipients to have their picture taken and put in their personal scrap book for future generations to enjoy. We were humble and happy to oblige. However, others told Dick and I that Tom was making fun of us. It was Tom’s folly. I attach a copy of the award for you to judge. The Program: The program amazed me. Steve Paulson from our own Police Department talked about Drugs, in our School, in our Town, and in the Nation. He has an office in the High School which I did not know. That sure sounds like a good idea, and now it must be a necessary one. He had a nice calm demeanor about himself and proceeded through a detailed power point presentation about all they types of drugs there are. Many of those products used to get high are simply sold right off the counter and many at our local Liquor Store. I am such a Pollyanna about things like this and slide after slide amazed me. You can get high on bath salts and incense. I use both of those products. You can get high on balloons filled with a gas that helps you make whipped cream. You can die from this. It looks like you can get high on most anything. A very interesting but very sad and concerning presentation. Gary |
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Rotary Meeting of 8-16-2012 “The Visit” from the District GovernorRotary Meeting of 8-16-2012 “The Visit” from the District Governor The District Governor came to check on the best Rotary Club in the New Paul Harris Fellows: At this meeting we put our best foot forward bringing out all the guns. First of all we had some New Paul Harris Fellow Awards to give, and some additional Paul Harris Fellows to others. Deborah, Shirley, Dean and Laura became Paul Harris Fellow (esses). Elyse, Kevin, Penny, and Tom added a diamond or a ruby to their status. Congratulations to you all. In other announcements. Guess what, Julie Warner is “Staying”. She has been such a great Rotarian over the years and brightens the room when she enters. It is great to know we will be seeing her for a long time. She is planning a little “staying in town” celebration. More on that later. District Governor’s Visit Then the District Governor came to the Podium and talked about this year’s new status of “VISIONARY”. This would be someone who far exceeds the requirements of an ordinary person in the pursuit of goodness and conducts major projects that affect people’s lives forever.. This was reserved for the Super Stars. We had three that were so designated by the DG. Jeami, Elyse, and Joe. Jeami for the work she is doing in Uganda that we all know about. Second for Elyse and Joe who have done so much and continue to do so much for RYLA. Everytime they talk about it they “Beam”. Joe wasn’t there, but Elyse “Beamed” enough for both of them. All three are labeled “Visionaries”. I sat with Dick and we grumbled a bit about how we too were visionaries. Dick does the Roster and I do the bulletins. But no…no visionary for us. But we do our tasks with pride and vigor, and perhaps someday we too can be visionaries. The Governor talked and reminisced about his life in Rotary and all the friends he has met. He spoke with dignity and class. Not sure if he had the right club for that, but he spoke from the heart. Ignite and ASK were two things the DG stressed in his talk. It’s all about Membership and we need to do a better job of spreading the word and increasing our membership. Simply, ASK people to come and visit. He closed by quoting a poem by anonymous. I didn’t catch all the words so I googled some of the words and found this one by Mother Theresa. It is very close to his closing and I close with it now. Mother Teresa's Anyway Poem People are often unreasonable, illogical and self centered; If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives; If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies; If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you; What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight; If you find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous; The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow; Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough; You see, in the final analysis, it is between you and your God; |
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Rotary Meeting of July 26, 2012 “The Art of Motorcycle Maintenance”We had a field trip. Yep. Upon awakening last Thursday I had that boyish feeling of excitement and the nervousness of …. “The Field Trip”. I use to have that feeling in the 4th grade or so. “We were going away”. A Trip. An Adventure. A Chautauqua. Not far, but not to the usual familiar and comfortable place either. I didn’t have to pack a lunch this day, the Rotary would take care of that. Today’s Trip was about MOTORCYLES. I don’t know anything about Motorcycles and looked forward to the day. I was excited and not disappointed. To digress for a second -- In my younger years I read a book called “Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance” by Robert Persig. It too is about a Chautauqua. It has stayed with me ever since. It’s not about Motorcycles, but uses them as a metaphor for a way of life. It is really good if you are in a particular frame of mind. I was and still am. I am not going to say too much about this 1 hour Journey into a special place. It is indeed special and so was Michael, the owner. If you are familiar with the internet service “Yelp,” you will find nothing but positive comments about Michael and his shop. Yelp is used by the common man to rate his common experiences with local establishments. Below is a “cut and paste” of one of the commenters who had been to Michael’s shop. I couldn’t say it better and there are others. All are terrific ratings of this simple yet complex store and man. “SBC is just one of those too-good-to-be-true places. For one, it's a top-notch place for motorcycle repair, service, and parts. Two, it's an open, friendly art gallery, lounge, and gathering place for rides or events. Three, like one of the reviewers said below, Michael is friendly and honest. He's personable and takes really good, meticulous care of his customer’s bikes, his equipment & tooling. Four, he's expanding all the time. I knew him before he had a lathe and mill, and more tools & capabilities are on the way. Five? Hank” Hank Is right about the shop and Michael. He looks like a figure out of the past, but he is not old. Maybe 40, but he is right out of the 60’s. About 6’4 and maybe 140 pounds. Long Elvis sideburns. Lot’s of tattoos. His “shop” is perfect. The pictures say it all and I am including most of them in this writing. There is a huge amount of “stuff” here and perhaps 15 motorcycles as well, but there is a perfect order to it. The walls are all decorated with his girlfriend’s art, so this is an art gallery as well. Every piece of Art is placed deliberately on the wall in a measured way. Michael gave us a simple 10 minute speech, unrehearsed but not nervous; and then answered lots of questions from the Rotarians who clearly were infatuated with the place and the man and his simple but seemingly perfect life. Someone asked him what were his next plans or had he arrived where he wanted to be. He thought, (just for a moment), and said he couldn’t think of anything else he would want. He had arrived. His journey and destination had become one. This was special, you had to be there but I hope I captured a little of Michael’s magic. |
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Rotary Meeting of 7-19-2012 “Tom Hitting His Stride, before Hubris Set’s In” or How Was Your Kale?NOTE: Meeting This Thursday is at 115 Penn St. South Bay Customs and Art Gallery The Meeting
The Program 1
The Program 2
The End
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Rotary Meeting of July 12, 2012 “A Full House for Tom"The Meeting I had missed the first meeting so I had not seen Tom as President (or Supreme Commander (SC)) before. I always get there early and shortly upon arrival so did Tom (SC). He surveyed the room and became one with it. He looked for someone to play the role of “Mystery Rotarian”, and he chose Jack, another early arriver. Jack fulfilled his duty by not extending his hand to those who came in and I am sure he had “caught” quite a few to help fill our treasury, but Tom forgot to call upon him. Running a meeting is complex with lots of people wanting attention, the mind racing at all times to ensure things are lively, but tended to. He didn’t tend to the Mystery Rotarian. I don’t think that has ever happened before. Kevin (a member of the District Governors officer corp) could not be there because of surgery so he did not mark this down as a district infraction, and God knows I won’t tell him. The District keeps track of these things like losing your gavel, the bell, etc. We had a few visitors. Tom had invited one of our new City Council electees by the name of Dave Atkinson. He asked "moi" to chaperone him through the meeting. Tom thought he might make a good new member. It has been a while since we had a council person as a member and I had a real nice chat with him. He is a nice guy with strong opinions about the City and some of the things he wishes to accomplish. He perhaps might want to become a member, but thought it was too premature for him to start considering these types of things. Tom presented a few checks to local causes. One to Shawn Green from the Teen Center and another to Carol Priztuk and Jayne Pimlott of the Ed Foundation. Program: West Basin Municipal Water District I didn’t write down her name, but the presenter from the Water District was charming. She had a nice combination of confidence and humility. Oh, and she was good lookin too. That is always a nice combo for me. That water district amazes me every time I see these presentations. I think it would be fun to go over and have a tour of the facility which I understand is available almost every day. I took her picture and Elyse, seeing an opportunity to be in front of a camera, hopped in to tear tickets. I guess the recycled water is totally safe for drinking if you are so inclined. I think I would take a pass on that for now, but perhaps in time it would be necessary and it is nice to see the technology has come so far. If I went there with the Supreme Commander (SC) I would expect him to display his leadership skills by throwing down a pint before asking any of his minions to do the same thing. Do any of you see anything “funny” about the picture below. |
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Rotary Meeting of Aug. 2, 2012 “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”, and “Movie in the Park”We had two important events this week…the Meeting, and The Movie in the Park. The Meeting: Another day another meeting. Tom moving along through his agenda with dispatch as they do in the military. I doubt if our Supreme Commander was in the Military. Military School perhaps as a boy. We had a visitor from a small town in Texas who apparently had the same barber as Tom(see picture). They exchanged some lively barbs about whether “Everything in Texas is Bigger”. He was a big guy and so was the SC. They are both “Abundant Men”. They had healthy platefuls of food, exchanged some flags (who’s was bigger” etc. etc.) and it stopped there. Which is a good thing. Guys gone bad is not good. Guys gone wild is worse. The Program: Every time I see our newest Rotarian Jeami Duncan talk about something I am amazed, or “blown away” which is a term she likes to use and it fit’s her comfortable talking style. She went to the Rotary National Convention and was “blow away” to quote her. She went to Bangkok, Thailand for the convention and as she talked her big bright eyes and smile were fully engaged as she clicked through her power point presentation. Most of us when we go on these Junkets treat it as a vacation. Not Jeami. She doesn’t go out to fancy restaurants in a upscale part of town whether she is in Thailand, Cambodia, or India(She went to all three). She likes to go to the impoverished areas to see if there is an opportunity to create a better life for the children she meets who live on the periphery of society. Those who have little chance at a decent life unless they have a helping hand. She takes those “projects” on like a David took on Goliath or Buffy the Vampire Slayer. I don’t know much about Jeami and I don’t know much about Buffy, but for now they are one and the same to me. Have you ever seen them in the same room together? I haven’t. Hellooo …. Buffy. She takes on the Giants and is little fazed by the magnitude of her task. She pick’s at the Worlds Big Problems. While I look to give the fella on the street corner a few bucks from time to time because I see myself in his eye’s, she looks at building schools tens of thousands of miles away for kids who would not have a chance at a decent life unless there are schools, teachers, clean water and food nearby. That is Mercy’s Village. Her first project that is ongoing and moving in a very positive direction. Click the above link and go there now. You will see this picture there, and I place here because it is so special. But, Buffy is seeking other causes to lend a hand to and found a few in her most recent travels. She wants to take on some of the “filth” in India’s slums and has already rounded up a number of people that want to partner with her and Rotary for that project. Ideas are already been generated on how to turn some profit from the garbage that is piled 25 feet high in some areas along the river. She also wants to take on the Children Sex Trafficking that has some of its origins in the slums of Bangkok and Cambodia. Girls as young as 6 years old are being sold. I don’t like thinking about this and I don’t like writing about this. I didn’t know of its existence til Jaime made her report and she already is networking in some dangerous areas to see if she can help. That’s what Jeami does. She is indeed a Vampire slayer and we should help her when we can. This diminutive little warrior told us all to be brave in our pursuits. She is something else. Watch Buffy go. Movie in the Park Speaking of something else our Supreme Commander was in all his glory come Movie in the Park Day. He barked orders, arranged things, made decisions and speeches and overall just “tended” to things with "Officialdom". He was IN CHARGE. That is until Lily showed up in the golf cart and took over. Dean, Wayne and I worked the Beer and Wine both and the Supreme Commander was checking the beer about every 15 minutes for it’s considency of taste and quantity of the pour. He tended to it. He tended to it. And then he tended some more. I hope he got home all right, he must have been very tired with all that tending. It was a grand evening and I had a great time. Thanks Lily, and Tom, our Supreme Commanders for the night. It's a lot of work and my hat's off to you both and all your helpers...fellow Rotarians. |
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Rotary Meeting of August 9, 2012 “AWOL Supreme Commander, Dick takes over” and The Rotary Foundation Part 1The Meeting The Supreme Commander went AWOL and our own Dick Van Vranken stepped in just like he had back in the 80’s. He ran the meeting briskly and on time taking care of business. He did not lose his gavel or his bell as happens to the Supreme Commander from time to time. He was humble and showed his gratitude to all for their participation in the Movie in the Park. We had a finemaster (Dr. Michelle) and she is really good at this. Her repartee is lively and gracious, and good spirited. She would be my vote to do this every meeting. That job is harder than it looks. I have done it a few times and I thought I would be good at it, but I am awful. Nice going Michelle (even though you did pick on me for having a flat tire in the center of town). I like to draw attention to myself and that’s why I have done this twice in the last few months. (I really need to visit the place that sold me the tires). Michelle took the opportunity to praise the absent Lily Craig. If you would have been there Lily you would have been embarrassed. She gushed about you, your skill, your generosity, and your friendship. I love it when people say good things behind peoples backs. You know they mean it. She also said you got a little “hot” in the raffle tickets at the Movie in the Park and had a few winners. God also apparently knows what a great Rotarian and Person you are. Are you embarrassed yet Lily. The Program Jack Weber talked to us today about The Foundation. Organized and starched, he did a great job. He quizzed us a bit by asking what we think The Foundation does. I think the answer is “A Lot of Things”. A Trillion Dollars flow through the foundation. These are numbers only Astronomers and Politicians use. Jack outlined the Foundation for us and one of the things mentioned early is the World Peace Initiative. It was number one on the chart that Jack showed, and caused the most discussion and questions for Jack. We will be hearing more about this program. In the meantime here is a link to help us further our knowledge. |
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Rotary Meeting June 21, 2012 "Bitter Sweet Good Byes"Bitter Sweet Good Byes Melissa’s last meeting as President. That was the Agenda for the meeting, and that is what we did. It is always a memorable moment filled with joy and tears. Melissa had her “Staff” make presentations about their accomplishments for the year. That was her style; that was her way; that was(is) who she is. She let others have the limelight while running things in the background with a firm hand. She never took the credit, but always took the blame if necessary… and there wasn’t much of that. She was kind to us throughout the year, only occasionally getting our attention with a crisp Whistle. That’s right…a WHISTLE. On occasion some of us would get out of hand and show some disrespect to others with our “rowdiness” (not me…but others), and you would get… the WHISTLE. Like a teacher (go figure) with a crisp SNAP of the ruler… out came the WHISTLE. That was it. No other scolding through the year (maybe a scowl now and then). Melissa also never missed a chance to say … Thank You. At the end of many a meeting when something was of note for the club, she said …Thank You for letting me be associated with you. She would open her arms as if to embrace all of us and smile with grace. At the end of the meeting we had a great surprise. Melissa sang to us. It was beautiful. She has sung before and perhaps will do so again soon. Tom thought she was only singing to him, but that wasn’t true. She was singing to us. Even though Melissa loves to sing, she spared us from having to sing all year long and we are grateful. I am not sure why she spared us the singing by her because “this gal can sing”. Well, perhaps we will find out at the Demotion Party. Melissa (and Randy…the Wind Beneath Her Wings) sang the song “For Good”. This is from the play Wicked. I recorded it on my new $40 camcorder and have about 4 minutes of the song. Unfortunately it is the last 4 minutes of the last meeting which I have completely recorded. I wrestled with the software to “Trim” it from the whole meeting, but my technical skills have thus far not allowed me to do that. I will eventually master that and put the song by Melissa on the web site, but for now if you want to hear the song click here: FOR GOOD. The song is about us her fellow Rotarians. She thanks us in a very emotional way, and we thank her back. 52 meetings, 12 Board Meetings, 10 District Breakfast, many many awards presentations and such, and a number of one on one visits with others. Rotary Presidents do indeed work hard for their clubs, and she thanked us. Thank you Melissa for a great year and you too Randy. You are quite a pair. Neither of you will ever be forgotten. You will be with us … For Good. |
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Rotary Meeting of 7-5-2012 “And So it Begins” or “Tom’s First"NOTE: Thanks to Marsha for such a great job in filling in for me writing the prose for Tom's First Meeting as "The Supreme Commander". It's going to be a long year. Thanks to Mari and Marsha for pictures from Tom's First.
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2012 Watermelon Eating Contest 4th of July
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Rotary Meeting 6-14-2012 “21 Days to a New Life"The Meeting: 1 more meeting to go after this one for Melissa and her "Watch" is over and passed a long to Tom. Oh Boy! But that's another story.
The Program: 21 Days to a New Life Another way to change our lives was taught to us. Our speaker had a menu of items on how to improve our lives. One of them only took 21 days and it had to do with changing habits. If you can do something “new” for 21 days straight, you have changed your life. I was pretty happy with my life, but there are “areas” that need to be improved and I am going to give it a shot. I only have 14 more days to go and I can start wearing some speedo's. I will probably have to talk to a Family Law Attorney as well. Body Language Did you know you can tell all about someone by their Body Language. She also could “read” people by their “gait” or the way they walked. She asked for Volunteers to be “read”. Julia put her hand up and came to the center of the room and was asked to “walk”. She walked and we were asked to comment on what we see. There was lots of comments and you can see by the smiles of the people in the room that many were “in good fun”. Julia is a very good sport. She was smiling too. I hope she is still smiling Hypnosis (I am a believer) There is no question this worked. Phil Volunteered to by Hypnotized and I believe that he was. Even more important…he believes that he was. At first it appeard to be a set up, but afterward I asked Phil and he said no…he has been hypnotized before and it works on him. He said he was susceptible to the process. |
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Rotary Meeting of 5/31/2012 “It’s all about finding Your Kind of Love”Announcements (Go Kings Go) The Meeting
The Speaker (Love Adviser) |
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Rotary Meeting of June 7, 2012 “Every Day Heroes
"It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat"
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El Segundo Rotary Bulletin of 5-24-2012 “Touch it by the Numbers"Meeting Notes Special Presentation
The Program
Go Here.Quiz for a Ticket: The first non-English speaking Rotary Club was established in? Send email with answer to garywilson@garywilson.com |
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Rotary Bulletin of 5-17-2012 "Barter This"Rotary Bulletin of 5-17-2012 (Barter This!)
Notices
Introduction and Announcements Visitors
Chase – Eagle Scout
Joe’s Mom
Joke Master
The Program
That’s it for now. |
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Rotary Bulletin - "There is No Answer" Meeting of 5-3-12Rotary Meeting of 5-3–12 - There is No Answer A Pledge, A Thought, and we were on our way. Introduction We had a visitor who was checking us out as a possible member. His name was _______ (I can’t find his business card) and he is a Financial Advisor…like Tom and Dean and maybe even Jim McLees. I should probably talk to him about my vast wealth. I am thinking of going to Las Vegas and either putting it on a hard 8 (great long odds) or play it safe and just sit at the Black Jack tables for 3 hours drinking for free and going home broke, but happy, and alone for a few hours, or perhaps the rest of my life Our Program was provided by Clair Sinnett. And the program (more later) was to be given by Rev. George Honn (favorite ice cream is chocolate). He brought along a couple of his followers – Cheryl Stump (French Vanilla) and Frank Fisher (Neapolitan). They filmed his presentation. So Joe, I ask you (because you study these things) …”what does it mean by the various ice cream choices we make”. Is it psychological, pathological, sexual, or other. There really is deep meaning to your choices. I checked it out on the internet so it must be true. (Go here to find out what your favorite ice cream means: FAVORITE ICE CREAM.) The site talks about compatibility between various Ice Cream favorites and the personalities of those who choose. You may have to reevaluate your choice of a mate. There may be those in the club that will have a natural affinity for each other because of their choices. (I hope Tom and I don’t have that). I think Elyse started this in depth questioning of visitors. She was looking for some complex questions to ask, and that’s what she came up with. Her second question was “do you need your locks changed”. Speaking of Elyse, she was the “Fine Master” today. This was a spot she was given when Michelle purchased the honor for her a few weeks ago, and like some Viper she turns on Michelle and tries to fine her $25 for something…anything. Apparently Michelle was not “somewhere” where Elyse thought she should be and Elyse fined her and asked her where she was. Michelle, (quite nimble with the repartee I must say) said she was at church praying for Elyse. Elyse decided to pay that fine herself not taking a chance that God might not be looking on our meeting that particular day. (He watches our meeting every time…Nancy I use the word “He” for the sake of clarity, God could be a woman ("fat chance" of that says Tom). Elyse is still pretty young (by no means close to the youngest in the club which at one time made her quite proud…(i.e. being the youngest and only female). She is still female as far as we know, although she has taken a lot of “vacations” in the last year or so to foreign countries where “those operations” are not all that uncommon, but that’s another story. Actually her and I had a brief Spontaneous Fellowship Event (SFE) in the corner when I received my birthday card and I had a great hug and a kiss, and there was lingering to it that…well... I assure you as of now she is still very much a female. Program The Reverend Honn’s topic pretty much was about “The Answer”. The Answer is…there is no Answer”. I might disagree with that. He held up the bestselling book The Secret by Rhonda Byrne, which has sold millions of copies around the world. It is a very nice simple read that gives one positive affirmations that will make your life happier and fuller. It is called the Law of Attraction and it is kinda neat. I have a copy and I like it, but there really is nothing new about it. It is not Religion. You just need to be reminded about certain things. If you are happy and fun and caring you will attract the same kind of people to yourself. (i.e. You are a Rotarian). If you are miserable, complaining, whining etc., then you will attract people like yourself (Kiwanis) and you will surely be miserable until you become a Rotarian and return to Joy. It is that easy. And some day we all go off to heaven and there is a big Rotary meeting up there, every day actually. And it will be good. Reverand Honn has his own church. I think it is called the Center for Spiritual Living and is connected to the “Church of Religious Science” by Ernest Holmes. I have always “studied” Religions and find them all of interest. Rotary rarely talks of Religion in it’s meetings and all are welcome. I talk a little of it now because it was our program, but this fella was not at all recruiting any of us, he was just sharing his experiences. Our personal Religion may come upon us in many ways. I was confirmed a Lutheran because all my buddies were of that church. They joined the choir and so did I. I quit when my brother saw me in a Choir Robe and he couldn’t stop laughing at me in the church. (I have pictures of me in the Choir Robe…I was really hot). I quit the church and the choir and haven’t sang since. I married a Catholic and go with Mary when time permits (like Christmas and Easter). Mary came upon her Religion because of the 4 generations before her. She is happy in it, and I am happy she is happy. Peace in the home is a good thing. I am tolerant of all kind Religions, especially the kind ones. My God is a friendly God, and he is funny, and yes he may be a She ;) The Church of Religious Science is a kind Religion and has a lot of that “new age” kind of thinking to it; although it was established in the 1920’s and much of the thinking is of a Philosophical nature and similar to much of what Ralph Waldo Emerson and the boys wrote about when they were hanging out at that Pond name Walden(that is where that line comes from about “He dances to the beat of a different drummer” or something like it” Note: "If a man loses pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured, or far away. " |
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Rotary Bulletin - "Awards Galore and Come Fly With Me" April 26, 2012Opening
Program
Melissa’s Notes for the Week of 4-30-12 Hi gang- I hope everyone has recovered from their weekend! This week since we are really not sure who ended up with the exempt bling- we will auction it off again for May. Nancy Cobb has the raffle prizes and Jim Mclees has the jokes for the month.
We have a board meeting on May 6- Jack Weber is responsible for dinner for this meeting. The year is winding down but let's finish with as much enthusiasm as we started!
May 17 is scholarship interviews June 7 is our community service lunch June 28 NO MEETING June 30 is the demotion party August 4 is Movie in the Park
And we still have lots of fabulous speakers and fun meetings left. See you all on Thursday!
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Good Year Blimp Acknowledges Rotary's End Polio Now initiative |
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El Segundo Rotary Today; Thursday February 23, 2012
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El Segundo Rotary Holiday Parade2011 El Segundo Holiday Parade
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Follow Us on Facebook |
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Mychal's Learning PlaceMychal's Learning Center Offsite Our offsite meeting today at Mychal's learning center was very successful. Ed Lynch was the perfect host; and the tour of Mychal's new home was great; Ed shared his philosophy on what he wants Mychal's to become as he moves forward. It takes special people to do what Ed Lynch does and after our meeting today; Ed is the perfect person to be giving back to the community in this way. I'm proud to call Ed a friend and a fellow El Segundo Rotarian. Keep up the good work Ed. |
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Welcome Laura GabelWelcome Laura!! Join me in welcoming the newest member to our El Segundo Rotary Club; Laura Gabel!!
Laura recently won on seat on the El Segundo Unified School District; School Board. Laura is married to Greg; and they have two children, Hunter and Hannah. If you have talked with Laura you know she has a Southern Accent; however she's not from Tennessee; not everyone can be so blessed. Laura and Greg are from the Great State of Alabama. When you talk with her and Greg just remember to talk slow so they can understand you. Welcome Laura. |
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Chevron El Segundo 100 Year Anniversay DinnerLily Craig....You're the Best
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El Segundo Rotary Donates Baseball Equipment to Mexico
Baseball Equipment Donated to Children in Mexico
SNAGS, BUT SUCCESS . . . A TRUE-LIFE ADVENTURE
Annually, the Rotary Club of El Segundo, California comes up with a program or two to serve the youth of Mexico – in particular Guaymas, San Carlos, Fatima, and San Jose areas. Whether it be a new playground at a school, sewing machines, woodshop tools, trees, paint or scholarships through Castaway Kids. Very early this year, we began to gather baseball equipment (El Segundo is known for its Baseball Teams). Little League, Babe Ruth League and Girls Softball soon began to drop off uniforms, shoes, bats, balls, mitts, and hats to our home. Thus, the journey began. A cargo van with all of the equipment sorted and identified headed for Blythe, CA where we met with Castaway friend, Doug Groppenbacher. The equipment was transferred to his truck and trailer and we headed back to Los Angeles and Doug to Phoenix where he planned to add additional items to the load for one of his scheduled trips to San Carlos. We all held our breath on departure day, March 3. Doug arrived at the border crossing in Nogales at 6:00am, armed with value declarations, itemized lists. Everything but the shoes , uniform pants and jerseys were not allowed to cross. Doug tried everything he could - but to no avail. The shoes and jerseys were not to be allowed in. After driving back into Nogales, AZ, Doug unloaded, stored the shoes and jerseys (for a later pickup), repacked his truck and trailer and hit the border again. This time he was allowed to cross. Two flat trailer tires added to Doug’s 24 hour marathon finally arriving at Bahia Storage to unload the items for Castaway Kids on March 4. This baseball equipment was a donation of the children of El Segundo Youth Sports to children in Guaymas and surrounding areas. Our primary equipment recipient, however, was designated to be Fundacion Aceptame Como Soy. This foundation provides a baseball program for more that 100 developmentally disabled children in Guaymas/Empalme. They play ball every Sunday morning at the Miramar Deportivo at 9:30 AM. We attended last Sunday and if you want to have your heart warmed make time to attend their game. The remaining equipment will be distributed by the Hinojos Family to neighborhood ball teams. We again want to thank the Hinojos Family of Fundacion Aceptame Como Soy, Paulo Delgado of Bahia Storage, and The Castaway Kids, and El Segundo Rotary Club who have helped baseball programs continue to be alive and well throughout the greater Guaymas area. There is really no way to properly thank Doug Groppenbacher except to invite him to join us one Sunday morning in Miramar. Terry Challis The Castaway Kids Website is here |
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Movie In the Park 2011 |