Stories

This past December our Rotary club was honored to participate in the Adopt-a-Family program sponsored by Safe Voices.  Safe Voices is an outreach program here in Lewiston, Maine supporting victims of domestic violence.  Each year Safe Voices approach potential donors who willing to donate gifts for these families.  This time of year can be a struggle for these people who may have been forced from their homes and no longer have the resources to provide gifts for their families.  The holidays are a time for hope, sharing and coming together as a community.  As a club, we came together, purchased gifts and collected cash donations of over $300.  We were able to use these funds to shop for 3 families to help make their holiday season a little brighter.  On behalf of the Lewiston/Aburn Rotary club, we wish to thank Jane Morrison, Executive Director of Safe Voices, her staff and team of volunteers for all they do, and for presenting this wonderful opportunity to us.  We look forward to serving these families in the years to come.

Support the International Committee in their quest to purchase a water truck for a Haitian orphanage and community.
Donations and pledges of support to reach the $11,300 goal are needed for September 2012. Print the Great Water Challenge worksheet (click HERE to download) and participate. This is a great water awareness activity for all ages; grab your friends, neighbors, community group and family and start the challenge today! Please direct any questions to Stephanie Gelinas at 207-754-5150.  No donation is too small, send checks payable to Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club, Attn Stephanie Gelinas, c/o Sandcastle Clinical & Educational Services,  72 Strawberry Avenue, Lewiston ME 04240 and put Haiti Water Truck in the check memo line.  Thank you for your support!

World Polio Day is 24 October. For 18-24 October, in honor of World Polio Day, The Rotary Foundation is offering double Paul Harris Fellow recognition points for online only contributions of US$100 or more for the $200 Million Challenge to eradicate polio. Help eradicate polio by making your online contribution.

Online contributions can't be made on behalf of another individual, club, or district. Promotional recognition points should appear within four to six weeks.

Download frequently asked questions (PDF) about receiving double Paul Harris Fellow recognition points.

Learn more about Rotary's work in eradicating polio.

 By Ryan Hyland and Dan Nixon 
Rotary International News -- 25 March 2011 

 

 

The Rotaract Club of Tokyo is encouraging Rotaractors around the world to post messages of support on Twitter for survivors of the Japanese earthquake and tsunami. Photo courtesy of Rotaract Club of Tokyo

 

 

 

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In response to the disasters, The Rotary Foundation established the Rotary Japan Disaster Recovery Fund , which will support long-term recovery projects in the affected areas. More than US$500,000 has been donated since the fund opened on 11 March.

“It is encouraging to know that our overseas Rotary friends care about us,” says Yuzaburo Mogi, president of the Rotary Club of Tokyo. “I am confident that the people of Japan will overcome this great disaster, and we are hopeful that we can get over the various difficulties soon.”

District governors in Japan are running a fundraising campaign to send money to the governors in affected areas. Mogi says that Rotarians who wish to help Japan should contribute to the Foundation's recovery fund . (Rotarians and non-Rotarians can donate online )

President Jen opened the meeting today with The Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of God Bless America.  PP Jason LaPlante gave the invocation before lunch.

 

 

VISITORS:

 

Adam Dow announced our visiting Rotarians Dawna Hannan from the Auburn-Lewiston Breakfast Club and Catherine Lewis from the Hallowell Club.

 

 

DRAWING & HAPPY DOLLARS:

 

The 50/50 Drawing was won today by Mr. Ed Leveque  and of course he had a  Happy Dollar for that!

 

Other Happy Dollars came from John Belisle, Shawn Wright, Nancy Brown, Mac McPeake, Catherine Lewis and Ray Martel.

 

 

FOUNDATION MINUTE:

 

In lieu of a regular Foundation Minute, Peter Kowalski made a special Paul Harris Fellow presentation to PDG Sylvia Plourde.

 

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

President Jen announced that our club will be receiving a Ready Read Award on May 6, for the donations of our books and volunteer readers to the Androscoggin Head Start Program last September.  Jen and other members of the Board will accept the award on our behalf and bring back to the club.  The award is given to those who promote reading readiness to children.

 

Community Service Chair Shawn Wright announced that our Comedy Show fundraiser at the Franco-American Heritage Center raised almost $900!  Many club members acknowledged the stellar performance that evening by Shawn!  Kudos to you, Shawn, for making this a successful event in spite of the glitches.

 

Shawn also announced our next community event….Autism Movie Event…to be held Saturday, April 23.  Save the date as we will need volunteers.

 

 

 

 

 

President Jen Hogan presided over the meeting today.  She opened the meeting with The Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of God Bless America.  Claire Durgin gave the invocation before lunch.

 

CLUB SERVICE:

 

Adam Dow fined all who wear not wearing green for St. Patrick’s Day!

 

Tom Knight won today’s 50/50 Drawing!

 

Happy Dollars:  Several Rotarians including Jen Hogan, Bethel Shields, Nancy Brown, Ed Plourde and Alan Hahnel (something to do with Alan’s brightly colored shirt!)

 

BUSINESS PROFILE:

Nancy Richard, Branch Manager, showcased her business, Camden National Bank, today.  Nancy has been with the bank for 23 years when it was formerly Kingfield Savings Bank.  Camden National has been around for 136 years and offers many services.  Please see Nancy if you have any mortgage or other banking needs.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

Community Service Chair, Shawn Wright reminded us that the Comedy Show fundraiser is tomorrow night.  We are at the break-even point right now and hope to sell lots of walk-in tickets at the show.

 

President Jen announced that Stephanie Gelinas and Nancy Richard will be attending the PETs conference this weekend.

 

 PROGRAM:

John Belisle introduced his good friend and our speaker today.  Larry Giroux spoke about his recent hunting trip to South Africa.  He gave us a brief overview of the area and it’s population.  He also showed us slides of the animals he hunted….most of them trophy catches and most of them with names I can’t pronounce!

 

This was certainly a one-of-a kind program and enjoyed by all who were attendance.

Ed Plourde thanked Larry for his presentation and offered him a Rotary mug as a token of the club’s appreciation.

 By Ryan Hyland 
Rotary International News -- 15 March 2011 

 People carry their furniture from their ruined home 15 March in Kesennuma, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, four days after an earthquake and tsunami devastated Japan's northeast coast towns. AP Photo/Kyodo News

 

In response to the massive earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan on 11 March, The Rotary Foundation has established the Rotary Japan 2011 Disaster Recovery Fund, which will support long-term recovery projects in affected areas.

Rotarians and non-Rotarians can donate online. Clubs and districts can contribute cash and District Designated Fund (DDF) allocations to the fund.

The 9.0-magnitude quake, Japan's largest in history, and the tsunami that followed it caused widespread devastation, paralyzing much of the northern coast. More than 10,000 people have been killed, and thousands are missing. Millions have been left without clean water or power, and at least 550,000 people have been forced from their homes.

A series of explosions at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, 140 miles northeast of Tokyo, damaged reactors and forced the evacuation of tens of thousands. The Japanese government is working to contain the situation. Damage from the earthquake and tsunami is estimated at US$170 billion.

RI President-nominee Sakuji Tanaka, of the Rotary Club of Yashio, Saitama, was in Lisbon, Portugal, on Rotary business during the disasters. He was able to reach his wife, Kyoko, on the phone to confirm her safety.

"She said it was the most horrifying experience she'd ever had," says Tanaka. "The northern region of Japan is still in chaos. We are unsure when this chaos will end or when things will get better. However, I am most thankful to know that Rotarians around the world care for us."

Japanese RI directors Masaomi Kondo and Masahiro Kuroda, as well as staff at Rotary International's Japan office, are confirmed to be safe.

Rotary clubs and districts worldwide are mobilizing efforts to bring urgently needed aid to victims.

"I've received many messages from Rotarians all over the world," says Noriko Futagami, the Public Image Resource Group coordinator for Zone 2. "I also have reports that Rotary clubs have begun to start planning projects for immediate help. Unfortunately, there are many Rotarians and families who haven't been able to be contacted. Rotarians in Japan worry for their safety."

Group Study Exchange team safe

Rotarian Robert Blackburn was leading a Group Study Exchange team in Japan when the earthquake struck. The five team members from Illinois, USA, were in a hotel in Tokyo, getting ready for a farewell dinner with their hosts.

"It was our last night in Japan. I felt the whole building shake," says Blackburn, a member of the Rotary Club of Westmont. "It was not just a mild tremor. My hotel room was shaking from side to side. It felt like forever. I have never been so scared in my life."

Blackburn says the earthquake lasted at least two minutes. He used a laundry cart outside his hotel room for protection. After the tremors stopped, he walked 18 floors down to the lobby, where the rest of the team congregated.

"The airport was temporarily closed, so I told everyone on our team that we might have to be here for a day or two longer," he says. "Thankfully, the airport reopened. Our hosts were incredible and were able to get us to the airport on time for our flight."

Tanaka says he is grateful for the warm support of Rotarians worldwide.

"The great thing about Rotarians is that we share everything, including each other's joy and sadness. They have the ability to put themselves in the position of others and act to help," says Tanaka. "Despite the unthinkable hardship we're experiencing now, the people of Japan will not give up on efforts to rebuild their communities."

Learn more about how to contribute to the Rotary Japan 2011 Disaster Recovery Fund established by The Rotary Foundation.

Rotary International News -- 4 March 2011 

 Bill Gates, cochair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, will be a keynote speaker at the 2011 RI convention in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, 21-25 May. Rotary Images/Monika Lozinska-Lee

Bill Gates, cochair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, will be a keynote speaker at the 2011 RI Convention in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, 21-25 May.

Gates will discuss the progress of the polio eradication effort and the need to finish the job during the third plenary session scheduled for Tuesday, 24 May, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. The session has been moved to the afternoon, 15:00-17:00, from its original morning time slot.

The Gates Foundation has awarded US$355 million in challenge grants to Rotary for use in the campaign to rid the world of polio. Rotary has responded with Rotary's US$200 Million Challenge. Gates has made several trips to India and Nigeria, two of the four remaining polio-endemic countries, and has praised the work of Rotarians in his annual letter.

Register for the convention before 31 March so you don’t miss out on early-bird pricing. Register online  through Member Access.

Other speakers will include Michael McQueen, founder of the Nexgen Group, who will discuss understanding Generation Y, and David C. Mulford, former U.S. ambassador to India and a former Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial Scholar, who will speak about the UN Millennium Development Goals.

Penny LeGate, a news anchor and reporter for KIRO-TV in Seattle, will share her experiences participating in and reporting on National Immunization Days in Ethiopia and India. Patrick Chisanga, vice chair of the District Governors Review Committee, will speak about Rotary's role in Africa. Download the preliminary program (PDF).

Entertainment features during the plenary sessions will showcase the richness and diversity of New Orleans' music scene. Grammy-winning trumpeter and bandleader Irvin Mayfield is founder and artistic director of the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra and one of the young giants in the world of jazz. In 1998, Mayfield cofounded the Latin jazz group Los Hombres Calientes, whose debut CD won Billboard's Latin Music Award for Contemporary Jazz Album of the Year. The band’s third CD was nominated for a Grammy. With 10 albums to his credit, Mayfield has performed in numerous prominent jazz festivals and serves as cultural ambassador for the City of New Orleans.

The Preservation Hall Jazz Band has traveled worldwide, spreading its mission to nurture and perpetuate New Orleans jazz. The group derives its name from Preservation Hall, the venerable music venue located in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter. Since the band began touring in 1963, several different groups of artists have toured under the Preservation Hall name. The current lineup is directed by Ben Jaffe, son of Preservation Hall founders Allan and Sandra Jaffe.

Other plenary session entertainment will include the Langley Ukulele Ensemble, the King'n Trio, the Ronnie Kole Septet, Lacy J. Dalton, Michael Martin Murphey, and Rhonda Vincent and the Rage.

Workshops will provide convention attendees with an opportunity to learn from Rotarians, Rotary leaders, and non-Rotarian guest speakers. This year's workshops will highlight the three priorities of the RI Strategic Plan as well as the latest Rotary Foundation developments. Download a preliminary schedule of workshops (PDF).

For more information:

• Register for the convention and ticketed events
• Purchase host event tickets
• Check the preliminary schedule to help plan your trip
• Download the 2011 RI Convention promotional brochure

President Jen Hogan presided over the meeting today.  She opened the meeting with The Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of God Bless America.  Jason LaPlante gave the invocation before lunch.

 

CLUB SERVICE:

 

Adam Dow welcomed are many visitors and guests, include Mayor Larry Gilbert, Rotarian David Wall from the Auburn-Lewiston Rotary Breakfast Club as well as numerous guests.

 

Claire Durgin won today’s 50/50 Drawing!

 

Happy Dollars:  Several Rotarians including Claire Durgin, Alan Hahnel and Ed Plourde (something to do with Ed’s brightly colored shirt!)

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

Shawn Wright welcomed Janet Gibson from Cuddles for Kids program at CMMC.  Janet was here to collect all the cuddly soft stuffed animals we collected from their program.  Shawn said that the Health Club and Spa had also collected stuff animals for this project.

 

Shawn mentioned our upcoming comedy show on March 18.  Be sure to sell plenty of tickets and get the word out so we can have a successful event and support the End Polio Campaign and have enough funds to begin our international project in Haiti.

 

 

 PROGRAM:

 

 President-Elect Stephanie Gelinas introduced our very special speaker today and the reason for so many guests in attendance.  Dr. Jean Rigaud Antoine, President of the Evangelical Alliance of Haiti was here to speak of the work his in doing in Haiti after the earthquake last year.  Before Dr. Antoine began his special presentation, Mayor Larry Gilbert gave him a special welcome and presented him with a lapel pin of our “All-American City.” 

 

Dr. Antoine studied extensively earning degrees in Theology and Civil Engineering.  He is the Senior Pastor and founder of the Bethlehem Evangelical Baptist Church, the Director and Founder of a school for Pre-K through Grade 13 and also the Director and Founder of Kingdom of Kids Orphanage in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, which is currently home to 81 orphans.  Dr. Antoine works tirelessly for the people and especially the children of Haiti.  He has been adding on to the current Kingdom of Kids home where the children live.

 

Dr. Antoine shared his vision for the new community of Jerusalem.  After the earthquake, people had to move away from the ruble and devastation and moved toward the rural hills of Jerusalem where they set up tents.  Dr. Antoine has the vision to develop four plots of land in Jerusalem.  He has already staked out the land for a school, hospital, church and orphanage.  He has a cement block-making machine and employs as many as possible to make the blocks for the new buildings.  Dr. Antoine has the vision and the skills to oversee such a massive project but not the funds.  He goes on faith and trust in God that the money will come.  He estimates the cost of the elementary school alone at $280,000USD.  The school also needs a food program as most children do not get food at home.  Dr. Antoine said that there are iron gates around his orphanage to keep the extra hungry kids out as there is not enough food to feed them all.  The children gather around the orphanage gates when they smell the aroma of food.  Dr. Antoine’s heart is much bigger than his wallet.  His school is large enough to host 2500 children but he currently has only 100 students as he cannot afford to pay for more teachers and supplies.  Much of his funds come from Americans who sponsor a child for $25 per month.  This small donation buys food, books and an education for the child.

 

Dr. Antoine answered our many questions and hopefully we can look forward to working an international project with Haiti and Dr. Antoine.

 

President Jen thanked Dr. Antoine for his presentation and offered him a Rotary mug as a a token of the club’s appreciation.

By Joseph Derr 
Rotary International News -- 25 February 2011 

 

The March issue of Rotary Down Under, the regional magazine in New Zealand, Australia, and neighboring countries, will include coverage of the Christchurch earthquake

 

Rotarians in New Zealand are doing what they can to assist victims of the devastating earthquake 22 February in Christchurch, where more than 100 people have been killed and at least 200 are still missing.

As efforts move from search-and-rescue to recovery, responses from Rotarians offering assistance have been pouring in. Authorities are requesting that donations in kind or noncash items not be sent to Christchurch, as the government, local agencies, and NGOs have sufficient emergency and second phase supplies for the ongoing needs of the community.

Rotary New Zealand World Community Service, a group of Rotarians dedicated to international service projects in New Zealand and the South Pacific, has set up an earthquake appeal fund. Learn more.

“New Zealand is a small country and everyone knows someone in Christchurch, so this is truly a national disaster," said Past RI President William B. Boyd, a native of New Zealand. “I know that the six districts [there] will work together to rebuild the spirit of the city. Best wishes from Rotarians from around the world have reminded us once again that we are a family and that in difficult times, families come together."

The incoming Rotary Foundation trustee-chair added: "The Rotary Foundation has an important place in the family of Rotary, and our Foundation will play its part as Christchurch rebuilds.”

According to a press release on the Rotary Zone 7B (New Zealand and Pacific Islands) website, Rotarians are offering to host traumatized residents so that they can get away to rest before trying to rebuild their lives. The effort is being coordinated within Rotary and through welfare agencies.

"We are OK but very stirred and shaken. Aftershocks are still continuing," assistant Rotary coordinator Ross Skinner wrote in a post on the site. "We have power and water (it seems) but no waste water or flushing of toilets."

Leanne Jaggs, past governor for District 9920 who lives in Auckland, posted on Tuesday that she was in Christchurch on business when the earthquake hit. "I was just about to jump out of my rental car for a meeting, when it felt like the car was moving," she wrote. "Our hope is that everyone we know is safe."

 

We will once again sponsor our annual movie event for families of children with autism on April 23 at 9:30 a.m., at the Lewiston Flagship cinema.  Registration begins at 9 a.m..

 

This year’s movie is Rio, a comedy adventure about taking a walk on the wild side.  Blu is a domesticated Macaw who never learned to fly, living a comfortable life with his owner and best friend Linda in the small town of Moose Lake, Minnesota.  Blu and Linda think he’s the last of his kind, but when they learn about another Macaw who lives in Rio de Janeiro, they had to the faraway and exotic land to find Jewel, Blu’s female counterpart.  Not long after they arrive, Blu and Jewel are kidnapped by a group of bungling animal smugglers.  With the help of street-smart Jewel, and a group of wise-cracking and smooth-talking city birds, Blu escapes.  Now with his new friends by his side, Blu will have to find the courage to learn to fly, thwart the kidnappers who are hot on their trail, and return to Linda, the best friend a bird ever had.

 

The movie is sensory friendly where the dim lights will remain on and the volume will be turned down.  Also the commercials and previews are eliminated from the show.

 

We need volunteers to sign in our guests and give them their snack-pack coupons.  We also need volunteer greeters and people at the exits of the theater to watch for stray children.  We also need volunteers to help collect the parent and children surverys at the end of the movie.  Volunteers needed for sign in process only or for the entire movie.  Please let Shawn Wright know if you are able to volunteer for this event.  This is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have as a Rotarian to witness the joy of the children and their siblings when they can come out as a family to a “normal” activity

President Jen Hogan presided over our off-site meeting today at the Franco-American Heritage Center in Lewiston.  She opened the meeting with The Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of God Bless America.  Jason Laplante gave the invocation before lunch.

 

President Jen thanked Rita Dube and the staff at FAHC for hosting us and providing lunch today.

 

 

CLUB SERVICE:

 

Since many brought a guest today, Adam Dow had each Rotarian introduce his/her guest.

 

There were several HAPPY DOLLARS today including one from Rita Dube (given in proxy by Mac McPeake) as she was happy to host us.

 

 

BUSINESS PROFILE:

 

Our newest member Hussein Ahmed told us about his business Barwaqo Halal Market at 263 Lisbon Street, the former Dube Travel building.  The market, which will soon have a new name Global Halal Market, sells groceries and traditional Somali clothing.  In addition to the market, Ahmed operates a money transfer station.  He is also a bill payment center where patrons can come in and pay their utility bills.  The market employs three people in the convenience store and several more who are agents for Ahmed’s interpreter service as well.

 

Hussein invited us all to come check out the market as the market is open to all in addition to the Somali community.

 

 

FOUNDATION THOUGHT:

 

Celeste Yakawonis read this week’s Foundation Thought

 

This week’s Rotary Foundation Thought is about micro credit.

In Cuzco, Peru Rotarians contributed $10,000 to a partnering association, Asociacion MIDE, which provided small loans to 288 low-income women. In six months these women improved their businesses and living standards, lifting them out of extreme poverty. While local Rotarians had the opportunity to work together to develop the project and approve the system of loans, the participants learned to use, administer and benefit from financial credit. In the process, the women improved their self-esteem as they acquired entirely new roles of financial responsibility for their families. How do I focus my giving? Every Rotarian, Every Year – Giving is hope in action.

 

 

NEW MEMBER INDUCTION:

 

President Jen inducted new member Ralph Precopio who was sponsored by Membership Chair Stephanie Gelinas.  Let us all welcome Ralph to the Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club.   

 

 

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

Club Service Chair Shawn Wright reminded us of the Polio fundraiser….Comedy Show on March 18, at the Franco American Heritage Center.  Although this is an adult show, it will be tasteful.  Feel free to invite your adult family and friends.

 

 

 

 PROGRAM:

 

 Jen Hogan introduced our host and speaker, Rita Dube.  Rita spoke briefly of the renovations involved in turning the old St. Mary’s Catholic Center into the community gem it is today. 

 

We enjoyed a scrumptious lunch on the lower level and were able to see the new (second) piano donated by an anonymous donor.  With the addition of this piano, entertainment can be offered on the lower level as well as in the main performance hall.

 

Rita mentioned a few of the upcoming events such as The Girls of L-A on February 26; the Mardi Gras on March 8; and the George Lopez piano concert on February 19.  Each member present received a complimentary pair of tickets to the piano concert!

 

After the brief presentation, Rita took us on a tour of the building, pointing out the artifacts, the photos, the windows and artwork in the Grand Performance Hall.  The hall can seat up to 500 with no bad seat in the house.

 

The acoustics of the Performance Hall attract many international artists.  Several performers have even recorded in the hall instead of a recording studio!

 

Thank you, Rita, for lunch, the tour, and the concert tickets!

 

Save these dates:

 

Thursday, February 24:  We will collect new and gently used stuffed animals for donation to the Cuddles for Kids program at CMMC.  These are given to sick children and elderly adults who need comfort during their hospital stay or procedure.

Please bring your donations to our noon luncheon meeting.

Thank you to all who brought in your stuffies!!!! 

 

Friday, March 18:  Comedy Fundraiser at FAHC…there will be a social hour with cash bar from 7-8 pm downstairs.  Then at 8 pm we will be entertained by three Boston area comedians.  Tickets are $20 each and available through the FAHC box office 689-2000, on the web: www.francoamericanheritage.org or from any Rotarian.

Proceeds of this fundraiser will go toward meeting our goal for Polio Plus and possibly begin our International Project Fund.

Thank you to all who supported this fundraiser by selling tickets, buying tickets, or volunteering at the event!           We raised almost $900!   

 

 

Saturday, April 23:  Autism Movie Event.  Save the date for this yearly project.  More info in another article on this website.

 

 

 

Hussein Ahmed is inducted as newest member of the club.  He is seen here with his sponsor Kathy Becvar. 

 

 

President Jen Hogan presided over the meeting today.  She opened the meeting with The Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of God Bless America.  Claire Durgin gave the invocation before lunch.

 

 

CLUB SERVICE:

 

Adam Dow introduced guests of today’s speaker:  Kimberly White, Ashley St. Hilaire, and Annette Harmon

 

The 50/50 Drawing was won by Mac McPeake today.  Congratulations, Mac!

 

Happy Dollars were given by Mac McPeake, Jen Hogan, George Gendron, John O’Malley, Don Grant and John Belisle.

 

President Jen read today’s Foundation Thought.

 

NEW MEMBER INDUCTION:

 

President-Elect and Membership Chair Stephanie Gelinas inducted a new member today.  Hussein Ahmed was inducted as the newest member of the Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club.  Hussein owns Barwoqo Halal Market at the former Dube Travel buiding at the corner of Cedar of Lisbon Streets. 

Let us all welcome Hussein!

 

 

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

Club Service Chair Shawn Wright reminded us of the Polio fundraiser….Comedy Show on March 18, at the Franco American Heritage Center.  Although this is an adult show, it will be tasteful.  Feel free to invite your adult family and friends.

 

 

 

 PROGRAM:

 

 

Vice President Nancy Richard introduced our speaker today.  Deborah St. Hilaire, founder of Mend-A-Body, shared a little about her business and its weight loss philosophy.

 

Two-thirds of Americans are considered overweight. An excerpt from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine states that if we continue our dietary habits, “by 2048, all American adults would become overweight or obese.”  Deb debunked some diet myths, such as: It’s harder to lose weight as we get older;  Females loose more slowly than males;  You can’t lose weight without exercising; Rapid weight loss is unsafe.

 

Deb went on to tell us that half of the dollars spent in the world on self-help food programs are spent in the United States!  Asthma has doubled in the U.S. since 1990.  In 20 years, if we continue our habits, diabetes will double!

 

Mend-A-Body Solutions is here to empower us by coaching, motivating and educating.  They also sell the Gene Smart brand of supplements which is a key component to getting healthy.

 

Their wellness coaches are professionally trained to help you with your goals for fitness and nutrition. The Mend-A-Body nutrition program is designed around a scientifically proven method of inflammation reduction. The dietary recommendations can help you in many of your goals and can be customized to assist in many areas which may include weight loss, more consistent energy levels and general better health. The anti-inflammation diet will also bring results which can include lowering blood pressure, cholesterol, triglycerides AND the numbers on the scale!

 

Kathy Becvar thanked our speaker today with a token of our appreciation.

Rotary International News -- 31 January 2011  
   

Bill Gates, cochair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is the latest public figure to help Rotary spread the word about polio eradication through billboard and print ads. 

 

 In a letter posted on the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation website today, Bill Gates praises Rotary International for its central role in the fight to eradicate polio, and refers to Rotary as a "key partner" in the global effort to rid the world of the crippling disease.

The annual letter from Gates, cochair of the Gates Foundation, focuses on education and polio, and notes that the eradication effort has benefited immensely from Rotary's support. Rotary launched PolioPlus -- a program to immunize the world's children against polio -- in 1985 and became a spearheading partner in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative three years later, along with the World Health Organization, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and UNICEF.

"Everywhere I go to learn about polio, I see Rotary members helping out with the hard work," Gates says in the letter. "I feel sure that with continued support, we will be able to show significant progress."

Gates also mentions that he will be taking three trips focused on polio this year, including additional trips to India and Nigeria.

The Gates Foundation has awarded US$355 million in challenge grants to Rotary for use in the global effort to eradicate polio. Rotary has responded with Rotary's US$200 Million Challenge. As of January, Rotary clubs have raised $160 million.

Gates has also recently joined Rotary's "This Close" campaign, aimed at increasing awareness of and support for polio eradication. More than 20 international and regional luminaries have appeared on billboards, print ads, and in television and radio public service announcements.

• Read the annual letter from Bill Gates
• Learn more about polio
• See a video about Rotary's work to eradicate polio
• Download resources from Rotary's "This Close" campaign
• Donate to help End Polio Now

Please join us for an hour of fun, fellowship and learning at the Ramada Inn, 490 Pleasant Street, Lewiston, from noon to 1 o'clock when our speaker will be Cathy Dionne, Director of Programs and Administration,, of the Autism Society of Maine. 

 

Cathy's bio......... 

 

I am the parent of a 16 year old boy with autism, Ben, and a 18 year old daughter, Ashley.  I live in Greene, Maine with my husband of 24 years, Rick. Ben was diagnosed with autism at the age of 18 months, and my family’s interesting journey began at that time.  Right away I began my education about the world of autism with all of its therapies, appointments, and family adjustments.

I became involved with the Autism Society of Maine (ASM) in 1996 first as a member of the Board of Directors, and then became Vice President.  Eventually I found myself wanting to do more for Maine families having a family member on the autism spectrum.  My idea of making a difference was to work for the Autism Society of Maine as a staff member so I could have direct contact every day with families.  I have been with ASM for 15 years and am currently the Director of Programs and Administration, and serve as Fundraising Chair person.   Over the past 15 years I have been instrumental in expanding the resources and programs which ASM provides for both children and adults with autism, and have been responsible for developing ASM’s fundraising efforts such as the Christmas wreath sales, the Ride for Autism, and the Walk for Autism.  In seven years this fundraiser has grown from 200 attendees to over 1200.  I was also instrumental in initiating the summer camp program based in Farmington at the University of Farmington.  Each year I organize the Annual Autism Family Retreat Weekend held in Biddeford, and I sit on several committees with the Department of Health and Human Services and collaborate with other agencies. 

President Jen Hogan presided over the meeting today.  She opened the meeting with The Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of God Bless America.  Leonard Kimball gave the invocation before lunch.

 

CLUB SERVICE:

 

Adam Dow welcomed Mac McPeake back after an extended trip to Egypt and Jordan.  He also welcomed guest and soon-to-be Rotarian Leonard Kimball, a visiting Rotarian from the Bat Sunrise Rotary Club and a returning guest, Bates College Student, Stephan, who is from a Rotary family.  Stephan and his college roommate, also from a Rotary family, are interested in beginning a Rotaract Chapter at Bates.  We will be sure to follow up with them to make this a reality.

 

Tom Knight won today’s 50/50 Drawing!

 

Happy Dollars:  Several Rotarians including President Jen had happy dollars today.

 

 

 

FOUNDATION THOUGHT:

 

Phil Nadeau gave today’s Foundation Minute on why we should support our Rotary Foundation.  The Annual Programs Fund is the primary source of unrestricted support for the programs of the Rotary Foundation. It funds programs in more than 160 countries on seven continents. From digging clean water wells for villages in Africa to teaching basic literacy skill to children in Latin America, during any given moment in a day, thousands of Rotarians volunteer their time and expertise ensure that all contributions given to The Annual Programs Fund are spent wisely on quality Rotary projects. Only if Every Rotarian makes a gift to the Annual Programs Fund Every Year, will we will be able to continue to do the great work of our Rotary Foundation.

 

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

Shawn Wright gave more details about the Comedy Show on March 18 to benefit Polio Plus and other Rotary programs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 PROGRAM:

 

 

Vice President Nancy Richard introduced our speaker, Marc Pitman, today.  An international fundraising trainer, Marc A. Pitman is the author of Ask Without Fear! founder of FundraisingCoach.com, a website dedicated to practical ideas for fundraising more effectively.

Because of his dynamic trainings, Marc is invited to speak to organizations like Blackbaud’s Conferences for Nonprofits, Habitat for Humanity International, the New England Association for Healthcare Philanthropy, the Association of Fundraising Professionals, and even the International Bowling Expo. His experience in nonprofit fundraising in many sectors (colleges, prep schools, and healthcare), in executive coaching, and in leadership training has caused him to be sought out by NBC, CBS, Fox News, Reuters, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, the Chronicle of Philanthropy, and the American Marketing Association.

Marc uses the formula “Get R.E.A.L” when coaching others to lead a successful fundraiser.

R   Set REAL goals….set a specific dollar amount as your goal.

E    ENGAGE your donor.  Marc explained this step as the “dating    stage”….Get to know your donors and create your donor relations.

A    ASK for the money!  Make an appointment and be sure to ask for a specific amount.  Let the donor process your request before speaking again.

L     LOVE!  Love your donor and work on getting a long-term commitment to support your cause for many years.

Marc’s final tip was to be sure to THANK your donors.  The magic number is 7 times.  Be sure to thank your donors on ALL printed literature in addition to personal “thank yous.”

 

Shawn Wright thanked our speaker today.

 

 

  

By Joseph Derr 
Rotary International News -- 17 January 2011 

 

RI President-elect Kalyan Banerjee announces the 2011-12 RI theme during the International Assembly in San Diego, California.

 

RI President-elect Kalyan Banerjee will ask Rotarians to Reach Within to Embrace Humanity during the 2011-12 Rotary year.

Banerjee unveiled the RI theme during the opening plenary session of the 2011 International Assembly, a training event for incoming district governors.

He urged participants to harness their inner resolve and strength to achieve success in Rotary.

"In order to achieve anything in this world, a person has to use all the resources he can draw on. And the only place to start is with ourselves and within ourselves," Banerjee said.

Once Rotarians find their inner strength, he continued, they can accomplish great things in their communities and around the world.

"Discover yourself, develop the strengths within you, and then unhesitatingly, unflinchingly, go forth and encircle the world, to embrace humanity," he said.

Banerjee emphasized the family as a starting point in serving others. "The communities we live in are not built of individual people but of families -- families living in homes together, sharing their lives and their resources and their common destinies. Good families lead to good neighborhoods, and good neighborhoods build good communities."

Rotarians can focus on projects that support families, such as those that provide safe housing or improve maternal and child health, he said.

Continuity in Rotary’s work, including polio eradication, is also important, Banerjee said. "There are so many things we are indeed good at: working for clean, safe water; spreading literacy; working in so many ways with the New Generations, our youth, in our newest Avenue of Service and assisting them to become the leaders of tomorrow."

Citing Mahatma Gandhi’s call to "be the change you wish to see in the world," Banerjee said Rotarians should also focus on change.

"If we wish for peace, we start by living in peace ourselves, in our homes and in our communities," he explained. "If we wish environmental degradation to stop, if we wish to reduce child mortality or to prevent hunger, we must be the instrument of that change -- and recognize that it must start within us, with each of us."

The theme inspired the roomful of Rotary leaders, including Jogesh Gambhir, governor-elect of District 3250 (India).

“It is a touching theme, but also very purposeful and meaningful,” said Gambhir. “I’m sure we can inspire the clubs into action to solve the problems in the community. That’s the ultimate goal of Rotary.”

“There are no words for me to describe how remarkable it was. To me, he was right on and weaved everything together beautifully," said Jane Millar, governor-elect of District 6290 (parts of Ontario, Canada, and Michigan, USA). "I am so thrilled to be a district governor when this man is president.

“I loved the focus on family, continuity, and change," she added. "Family is the center of everything, and not just our immediate family. It’s also about the family of Rotary and the world as one big family."

• Get theme graphics
• See a video
• Send an e-card with the 2011-12 RI theme

 

Thank you all for supporting this month’s Community Service Project with Trinity Jubilee Center!  With your donations, we were able to donate 1215 diapers to the center.

 

Photo: L-R  Volunteers Shawn Wright, Christine Wilson, Taryn & Laurie Ouellette,  Claire Durgin, Nate Durgin

                              (Absent is Phil Nadeau who was behind the camera) 

 

Also, several Rotarians and family members volunteered to serve lunch and clean up on Saturday, January 22.  We served about 70 meals to the hungry patrons.  Thank you to all who helped with the set up, serving and clean up.

 

Many of the patrons also helped with the clean up from folding chairs, washing tables, sweeping and mopping floors.  We enjoyed the fellowship of all men, women and children who came in that day.

 Please join us on Thursday at noon at the Ramada Inn in Lewiston for fun, fellowship and learning with Deb St.Hilaire from Mend-A-Body Solutions. 

Deb St Hilaire, Founder: • Retired executive ranking in the top 2% nationally with Mary Kay Cosmetics • Former nutrition coach for Weight Watchers of Maine, affiliated with the Maine Dairy and Nutrition Council, Southern Maine Christian Daycare Food Program • Recent graduate of Medi Zone weight loss and nutrition • Recognized nationally for superior coaching, motivational and communication skills which have been sought after by many groups and organizations, including Mary Kay Cosmetics From Deb: In my mid-forties I was told to accept that I was considered higher risk for coronary issues because of my blood pressure, triglycerides and cholesterol readings. A whole variety of medications were recommended for me. I was also told that the unwanted pounds I was wearing were normal for my age and that I should just enjoy life and accept where I was at. I decided to fight back and not accept that as a solution. There were new developments in scientific-based European wellness programs that were getting dramatic results and moving here to the states. After graduating from an extensive course on one of the most researched and respected programs available, I was committed to a new way of health. This involved watching my inflammatory and sugary food consumptions. Not only did my health improve dramatically but my waistline did as well. I went from a snug size 10 to a roomy size 4! I began to recommend the changes to friends and family and the results were truly amazing! I left the security of a near six figure income without looking back because I knew I wanted to offer this incredible opportunity to others.  Our holistic approach at Mend-A-Body Solutions is to offer education, products and exposure to help you succeed in the most important investment of your lifetime - your health! Our coaches and staff are ALL committed to bring YOU the secrets to wellness and waistline management

 

We will have our Comedy Event on Friday, March 18 at 8 p.m. at the Franco-Heritage Center at 46 Cedar Street in Lewiston.  There will be a social hour with cash bar and light refreshments from 7pm to 8pm.  The show, featuring comedians Dennis Fogg, Bob Seibel and Dan Crohn, will begin at 8 p.m.  Tickets are $20.

Tickets are available through the Franco-American Heritage Center's box office and their web site and the remaining tickets will be sold by us. 

 *Print and distribute the posters - Hang them on community announcement boards, churches, grocery stores, schools, at work...or anywhere else they grant you permission!

*Feel free to email the poster to friends, family, colleagues, other Rotary Clubs etc.

*Share this poster/event on Social Network - Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn etc! I will be creating an event on Monday on Facebook (so feel free to "friend me" if you'd like to be included!)

*Approach local businesses and see if they would be interested in purchasing a block of tickets for customer appreciation or employee awards/incentives/

I thank you in advance for your help with this project...our goal is to raise enough to meet our Polio Plus Goal...and possibly begin our International Project fund for Haiti!

If you have any questions please feel free to call me! 207-837-8297

All my best,

Shawn 

 

By Arnold R. Grahl 
Rotary International News -- 28 December 2010 

From a massive earthquake in Haiti to the launch of the Future Vision pilot, 2010 was an eventful year for Rotary International and Rotarians. As the new year dawns, we look back over memorable moments from the last 12 months with our top 10 list of Rotary news events.

1. Earthquake in Haiti

Rotarians in Haiti began laying the groundwork for recovery after a powerful earthquake shattered the capital of Port-au-Prince on 12 January, leaving 200,000 dead and millions more homeless.

The Rotary Foundation established the Haiti Earthquake Relief Fund, a donor advised fund, which raised more than US$1.3 million by April toward long-term recovery. A task force set up two years earlier by District 7020, which includes Haiti, to administer all financial aid to the nation worked with local clubs to deliver aid where needed.

In late February, 2009-10 RI President John Kenny visited the country "to show that Rotarians worldwide care about the plight of their fellow human beings, many of whom have lost everything."  

• Read more
• Read about and see photos from Kenny's trip  

2. RI theme

Incoming RI President Ray Klinginsmith unveiled the 2010-11 RI theme, Building Communities -- Bridging Continents , during the International Assembly in January. He described how his 50 years of Rotary experience contributed to his focus on communities at home and abroad.

• Read more
• See the video
• Read Klinginsmith's December message, explaining why he selected "Cowboy Logic" as his theme song

Look for upcoming coverage on next year’s RI theme, which RI President-elect Kalyan Banerjee will announce at the 2011 International Assembly, 16-22 January.

3. Fight against polio

The bivalent oral polio vaccine is proving to be a potent weapon in the arsenal of Rotary and its partners in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative. Developed to stop transmission of the type 1 and type 3 wild polioviruses simultaneously, the vaccine was introduced in all four polio-endemic countries -- Afghanistan, India, Nigeria, and Pakistan -- in late 2009 and early 2010, and has helped reduce the incidence of polio dramatically in both India and Nigeria.

Meanwhile, a study published in the Vaccine journal, “Economic Analysis of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative,” estimated that the initiative could prevent more than eight million cases of paralytic polio and save US$40 billion to $50 billion, if the wild poliovirus is eradicated in 2012 or shortly thereafter.

But the news was not all positive. Rotary provided $500,000 in emergency grants to UNICEF and WHO for immediate polio immunization efforts in Tajikistan in April and another $500,000 in November for immunization efforts in the Republic of the Congo, following outbreaks of the wild poliovirus in those countries. Such outbreaks illustrate that all countries remain at risk for the importation of the poliovirus and show the urgent need to End Polio Now.  

• Learn more about the success of the bivalent oral polio vaccine
• Read about the Vaccine journal study

4. Progress on the challenge

Rotarians held a variety of creative and successful polio fundraisers throughout the year, helping to reach the US$155 million mark in Rotary’s US$200 Million Challenge. Club members cycled, swam, danced, and sold everything from hot dogs to flower bulbs in support of the global effort to eradicate the disease.

In the months leading up to the FIFA World Cup in June, a football signed by Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu and dignitaries from more than 20 African nations traveled throughout the continent in the Kick Polio Out of Africa campaign. The ball ended its journey onstage at the 2010 RI Convention in Montréal, Québec, Canada.

Also, the "This Close" public service announcement campaign rolled out to help clubs and districts spread the polio eradication message.

• Read more about the Kick Polio Out of Africa campaign
• Read about creative polio fundraisers
• Get "This Close" materials
• Purchase tickets to the 7 March Concert to End Polio with violin virtuoso Itzhak Perlman and members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra

5. 2010 Council on Legislation 

Representatives to the 2010 Council on Legislation enacted a number of monumental measures that made e-clubs a permanent part of Rotary International, created the Avenue of New Generations Service, increased the annual per capita dues that clubs pay to RI by US$1, and gave Rotarians the option of receiving The Rotarian magazine electronically.

• Read more

6. 2010 RI Convention

More than 18,000 Rotarians from 154 countries and geographical areas converged on Montréal, Québec, Canada, in June for the 2010 RI Convention. During four packed days of plenary and breakout sessions, attendees heard from an impressive lineup of speakers, including Queen Noor of Jordan; Jo Luck, president of Heifer International; Greg Mortenson, best-selling author and cofounder of the Central Asia Institute; Bob Mazzuca, chief scout executive of the Boy Scouts of America; and country music singer and philanthropist Dolly Parton.

• Read more

7. Future Vision

A three-year pilot to test the new, streamlined grant structure under The Rotary Foundation Future Vision Plan got underway 1 July. One hundred districts are participating in the pilot; all districts will take part in the new grant structure starting in July 2013.

The Foundation approved the first global grant in June for a project to combat the spread of dengue fever in Indonesia. District 3330 (Thailand) received the first district grant and will use the US$39,500 to buy books, computers, and sports equipment for schools; provide clean water for students; and add patient beds at a hospital.

• Read about the first global grant
• Read about the first district grant
• Learn more about the Future Vision pilot

8. End Polio Now lightings

In celebration of Rotary's 105th anniversary, 23 February, the End Polio Now message was projected onto a number of iconic landmarks, including the Pyramid of Khafre in Egypt; the Taipei Arena in Taiwan; the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain; the Old Port Captain’s Office on the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, South Africa; the Obelisk of Buenos Aires, Argentina; and the Royal Palace at Caserta in Italy.

• See a photo gallery
• Learn how to plan a lighting

9. Palestinian club charter

More than 150 Rotarians and guests, including 2009-10 RI President John Kenny and RI Director Phil Silvers, gathered on 30 May to celebrate the charter of the Rotary Club of Ramallah, the first club in Palestine in three decades.

• Read more

10. RI Strategic Plan 

A revised RI Strategic Plan went into effect in July. The plan comprises three priorities, all of equal importance to Rotary's future: support and strengthen clubs, focus and increase humanitarian service, and enhance public image and awareness. In November, the Board approved several recommendations and actions that reinforce the priorities and goals of the plan.

• Read more
• Learn more about the RI Strategic Plan

 

 

By Ryan Hyland 
Rotary International News -- 30 September 2010

 

 

Rotaractor Andrea Tirone of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, has also participated in her district's RYLA and is a former Ambassadorial Scholar. She plans on becoming a Rotarian after Rotaract. Photo by Xavier Vahed photography

 

Rotary youth programs have prepared Andrea Tirone well.

As a current Rotaractor, a past participant in her district's Rotary Youth Leadership Awards(RYLA) program, and a former Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial Scholar, she is hoping her experiences serve as a springboard into Rotary.

"In Rotary, I will have a variety of service possibilities available to me, locally and internationally," Tirone says. "There is so much diversity in the work Rotary does. It can give you exposure to so many different areas, and help you find what your interests really are."

Tirone was introduced to Rotary during the District 7070 (Ontario, Canada) RYLA in 2004. She describes it as one of the best weeks of her life, and says she was impressed by the planning that went into it.

"Learning about each other through different workshops and activities, I formed these incredible, lifelong bonds," she says. "I thought to myself, if Rotary can put on such an amazing week, then imagine what it would be like to be part

of the whole organization."

Joining Rotaract

When she enrolled at the University of Toronto in the fall of 2004, she sought out its Rotaract club and joined, becoming club president in 2005-06. Her club volunteered in the community but focused much of its time and resources on raising funds for a literacy project in India, working with a sister club and Rotarians to help implement the effort.

"Being involved with Rotaract opened my eyes to the ability to connect with Rotaractors all over the world," says Tirone. "Finding out that Rotary has very strong ties to the rest of the world was very appealing."

In 2008, Tirone became an Ambassadorial Scholar, majoring in political science at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in Durban, South Africa. During that time, her host Rotary club helped establish the Rotaract Club of Durban Berea.

As an honorary member of the Durban Berea club, she embarked on an international project with 19 other club members, raising US$2,000 to help renovate a school in Ponta do Ouro, Mozambique. The Rotaractors spent a week cleaning and painting classrooms and installing a vegetable garden.

Tirone says she plans on becoming a Rotarian but wants to stay in Rotaract as long as possible.

"Rotary for me is for life, so I want to be able to experience as much of Rotaract as I can," she says. "Because of it, I have friends all over the world."

Tirone says Rotaract is good for Rotary.

"When it comes to encouraging new members or bringing in new and innovative ideas, Rotary can always rely on Rotaractors to be the people who bring those types of ideas to clubs."

 

President Jen opened the meeting today with The Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of God Bless America.  Wendy Russell said the invocation before lunch.

 

 

VISITORS:

 

Adam Dow announced visiting Rotarians in addition to District Governor Claude Martel and his wife Francine.  Assistant District Governor Larry Marcoux from the Auburn-Lewiston Rotary Club and Gary Kennedy of the Hallowell Rotary Club and former member our club were in attendance as well as a visiting Rotarian from the Windham Rotary Club.

 

 

DRAWING & HAPPY DOLLARS:

 

The 50/50 Drawing was won today by Mr. Mac McPeake (again!)  and of course he had some Happy Dollars for that!

 

 

BUSINESS SHOWCASE:

 

A new focus this year is showcasing the businesses our Rotarians represent.  Today Jason Laplante showcased Shad’s Advertising which has been in business since 1961 specializing in promotional products.  Promotional products can be used to expand brand reach, improve recognition and reward employees.  Promotional products are cost effective as the product is kept for an average of 7 months.  Thank you Jason and Shad’s for the gifts of the colorful travel mugs left on the tables for each person!

 

 

FOUNDATION MINUTE:

 

Foundation Chair Peter Kowalski  gave us a brief history of The Rotary Foundation established in 1917 by Rotarian Arch Klumph, President of the Cleveland, Ohio Rotary Club, 1913-1914.  Klumph was Rotary International President 1916-1917.  The Foundation was originally started with the intention of “Doing good in the world.” The Foundation continues to be a financial source of doing good in the world through the different programs.

 

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

President Jen reminded us of the Green Buckets for Polio Plus….to deposit our change and/or bills to help eradicate Polio.

 

Community Service Chair Shawn Wright announced that next week will be the last week to bring in donations for Androscoggin Humane Society.  We will present the donations to Sarah Libby when she will be here as our program speaker.

 

Pres. Jen reminded us to be on the lookout for Balloon Festival sign-ups to be in your email boxes soon.

 

 

SPECIAL PRESENTION by PDG SYLVIA PLOURDE

 

            PDG Sylvia Plourde made a special presentation to Immediate Past President John Belisle for Membership Recognition Award for 2009/2010 for minimum gain of net 1 members and 80% retention of existing members.

 

 

SPECIAL PROGRAM:

 

Vice-President Nancy Richard introduced our very special guest today….our brand new District 7790 Governor Claude Martel.

 

DG Claude spoke about our theme Building Communities/Bridging Continents.  He quoted Paul Harris who started the first Rotary Club in 1905,  “We live in a changing world and we have to prepare ourselves for change.”  We must be willing to do things differently to change our way to improve our communities.  He asked us to give the best of ourselves in 2010-2011.  We need to ask ourselves, “What can I do to help my club become BIGGER, BETTER, BOLDER?  We need to be enthusiastic about Rotary so we can attract new members and retain ALL members.

 

Bill Gates has been quoted as saying that “Rotary is the best organization in the world.”  We should feel lucky and privileged to be part of such an organization.

 

Our goals should be to improve the ability of our club through the club Leadership Plan.  We should dream for the next 10-20 years so that our members our prepared to take over leadership roles in that time-span.  We also need to work on recruiting and more importantly retaining our members..

 

We should also continue to support The Rotary Foundation programs like EREY and Polio Plus.  We will also continue to support our district projects…this year’s project is a second year project in Equador to bring fresh water to the villages.

 

In order to be a successful club, Rotarians must be willing to give our time, talent and tenacity in order to boost our clubs.  If we all work together, we cannot fail.

 

The District Governor concluded with an open invitation to the District Conference in Quebec City June 3, 4, 5, 2011.

 

Find out why you should join our club.

The International Committee is seeking individuals and businesses interested in donating towards our $40,000 goal to finance a Water Truck which would serve a school, orphanage and community in Haiti.  Rotarians have visited this community several times and so far a truck has been purchased but the funds necessary to convert the truck to a water truck are still needed to complete the project. We are nearly half way to the $40,000 goal.

 

As you can see the Yellow Truck above needs to be outfitted with a water tank and other equipment to serve its purpose to this community. The picture above shows how many water trucks are needed to serve these communities and the orphanage must pay daily to have water delivered. Please show your support by sending donations to our club via our International Chair, Stephanie Gelinas.

On Saturday, March 3, the Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club will bring back comedy to the Franco-American Heriatge Center in Lewiston.  The evening will start with a cash bar and light refreshments at 7pm followed by 3 comedians at 8pm.  Tickets are $20 each and can be purchased at the Franco-American Heritage Center's box office by calling 689-2000.

 IF YOU'RE A ROTARIAN - HELP US BY SELLING TICKETS TO YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS!

Several members of the Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club returned home on Sunday after visiting Haiti and helping them in their journey of hope and healing from the devastating earthquake 2 years ago.  Be sure to check out the Haiti photo album or follow their journey on facebook.

 

On Thursday, December 22, the Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club was joined by the Auburn Rotary and Kiwanis to celebrate the holidays!  Club President, Stephanie Gelinas led the group in singing, festivities and of course, the annual poem written and recited by Kiwanian Patti Gagne.

 Check out the photo album for some photos of the celebration!

Volunteers are needed to help the Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club sell poinsettias at the first-ever Downtown Holiday Festival of Arts and Lights.  

Date:  Saturday, December 10
Time: 12:00pm to 5:00pm   

The Holiday Festival will be held on Lisbon Street in Lewiston and will feature 14 venues and 38 vendors. One of those vendors will be us, selling Poinsettias.  Other vedors include Original art, Jewelry, Photos with Santa, Chair massages, Woodcraft, Textiles, Lamps, Photography, Gift certificates, Craft activities, Caroling, Chocolates and Gifts galore!! It's a unique shopping event for the entire family!

Volunteers are needed for 3 tasks:

• Set-up which includes picking up poinsettias at Whitings and delivering them to the festival

• The Festival which includes selling poinsettias (location is inside)

• Break-Down which includes transporting un-sold poinsettias back to Whitings

If you're interested in volunteering please email Shawn Wright.

"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life.  It turns what we have into enough, and more.  It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity.  It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend.  Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow."  ~Melody Beattie

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your families.  Much gratitude goes out to you for all you do for our Rotary Club and turn for all you do to help our communities both near and far.  Thank you for being a Rotarian!

*No meeting on Thursday, November 24, 2011

On Thursday, November 17, the Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club welcomed a new member:  Ann Anctil, formerly a member of the Lisbon Rotary Club.

Club Members stood and welcomed our new member into the friendship and World of Rotary International!

On Thursday, November 17, the Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club heard from Nancy Dubord who talked about Veteran's programs in L/A.  During the meeting, the Club recognized it's very own Veterans and thanked them for their service to our country!

Our 2011 Holiday Poinsettia/Wreath Scholarship Fundraiser is officially underway! The great news is all items are the same price as last year!

See attached flyer and order forms.  What you do is simple:

1. Collect orders and write the name of the individual/company receiving the order on one of the forms. You pick up all orders at Whitings. If you need to know where they are located, I have attached a map.
2. Send your form to me no less than 24 hours prior to pick up (DO NOT SEND ME ORDERS ON SATURDAY OR SUNDAY) by fax (795-5069), email (scan it and send to pnadeau@lewistonmaine.gov) or call me and I can write up the order (cell 576-1684).
3. All poinsettia orders can be sent Mon-Fri, 24 hours prior to pickup on Mon through Saturday. 
4. All wreath orders must be submitted 4 days prior to pick up on Mon through Saturdayu (you can sometimes get lucky and have the size you need available but will have to go to Whitings to look as you cannot get them on the phone).
5. Money can be turned in one of two ways (always submit money with the order forms so we know which Rotarian ordered it and who it was delivered to):  A) turn in envelope at the weekly meeting and give it to the President or her designee; B) turn in envelope to me at City Hall or mail it to my home address:  118 Dyer Road, Lewiston, ME 04240

KEEP IN MIND THAT THIS WILL BE THE ONLY HOLIDAY FUNDRAISER FOR OUR CLUB THIS YEAR. WE NEED ALL HANDS ON DECK! PLEASE DON'T HESITATE TO CONTACT ME IF I CAN HELP IN ANY WAY.

WE WILL HAVE FORMS AVAILABLE AT EVERY MEETING IF NEEDED.

Happy Selling!!! 


Philippe Nadeau
Rotary Club of Lewiston-Auburn

Join the Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club for an evening of fun and fellowship at a Portland Pirates Hockey Game, and at the same time help us raise money for Polio Plus.

Date:  Saturday, February 4, 2012
Time:  7:00pm
Location:  Cumberland County Civic Center

Tickets are $17 each and can be purchased by contacting John Belisle.  As a Rotarian we are also asking for your help in selling these tickets to your family and friends.

Bring your family, bring your friends and let's have a great time together!

Help support the Auburn Breakfast Rotary Club for their 5th Annual Christmas Tree Day at the Maine Bucket Company. The event is being held Saturday, December 3 from 9:00am-3:00pm at the Maine Bucket Company (21 Fireslate Place in Lewiston - look for signs on Outer College Road)

They will be offering:

• Cut your own trees
• A craft fair
• Steamed hot dogs
• Coffee
• Hot chocolate for the kids
• Hayrides
• Snacks
• Maine Bucket Seconds, Kindling and Christmas bows.

Santa will arrive for a visit from 10am-1pm.

It's encouraged to make a $30 per tree donation, $45 per tree donation for the 8'-10' trees. Donations for other services are also welcome. All donations are used to help support the local charitable causes that the Auburn-Lewiston Breakfast Rotary Club helps fund.

If you are not available that day, you can call Doug at the Maine Bucket Company to arrange another time to pick up a tree. (754-7226)

For more information on the event, contact Doug or Autumn at 784-6700 or Mona at 233-8179.

Help Support the Lisbon Intyeract Club in their Food Drive Project.

The Lisbon Interact Club is holding a food drive to collect food items for the LACO (Lisbon Area Christian Outreach)food pantry at MTM Center in Lisbon.  All non-perishables are welcome with a special emphasis on the following items:  canned spaghetti sauce, canned pasta, canned fruit and vegetables, granola bars, pop tarts, flavored rice mixes, peanut butter, tuna, macaroni & cheese, saltines and other crackers, canned soup and cereal.

 

Donations will also be collected at Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club on Thursday, November 17.

 

The Lisbon Interact Club is also doing a Diaper Drive for the Haiti project and mission being completed by the Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club.   Diaper Donations will be accepted through December 21^st.  Donations may be sent to Lisbon High School or brought to any Rotary meeting. 

 

There are as many reasons to support The Rotary Foundation as there are ways to do good in the world.

By donating to the Foundation, you support Rotary's six areas of focus, which help advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education, and the alleviation of poverty. Contributions to the  Every Rotarian, Every Year (EREY) initiative, are the primary source of funding for Foundation programs. By giving $100 a year through EREY, you become a Rotary Foundation Sustaining Member. 

Here are a few ways your contributions are changing lives around the world.

5. Fighting hunger

In Romania, children have eggs, milk, and meat because of a Foundation grant that enables local farmers to buy animal feed, packaging materials, and other supplies. The farmers agree to donate a portion of their products to children's hospitals, schools, and orphanages.

In Alaska, USA, the Rotary Club of Anchorage East is also fighting hunger by distributing food to low-income families through a mobile food pantry.

4. Reducing child mortality

The Rotary clubs of Jaela-Kandana, Western Province, Sri Lanka, and Madras Northwest, Tamil Nadu, India, are helping to reduce child mortality by providing improved sanitation facilities for 15 families in a small community in Sri Lanka. With a Rotary Foundation Matching Grant, the clubs have built 14 toilets, helping to prevent the spread of diarrhea-causing diseases related to poor sanitation.

According to the World Health Organization, 1.8 million children die of diarrhea every year, making it the second leading cause of death among children under five. Proper sanitation can reduce the child mortality rate in many communities by more than 30 percent. Water and sanitation is one of the areas of focus.

3. Promoting peace and conflict resolution

Watching civil war tear apart his homeland of Côte d'Ivoire instilled in Rotary Peace Fellow Kouame Remi Oussou a passion to resolve conflict.

He is now working for the United Nations Development Programme in the Central African Republic, a country that weathered periodic internal fighting before a comprehensive peace accord went into effect in 2007.

2. Basic education and literacy

A literacy project sponsored by Rotarians in South Africa and Rhode Island, USA, in conjunction with the International Reading Association and Operation Upgrade, is teaching adults in the rural community of KwaNibela, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, to read and write. These skills will help them fight poverty in their community.

Through the effort, nearly 600 adults are attending literacy classes taught by instructors trained with help from Operation Upgrade, which specializes in adult basic education.

1. Eradicating polio

Around the world, Rotarians are going the distrance -- participating in walkathons, climbing mountains, cycling, even circumnavigating a continent in rubber dinghies, among other fundraisers -- to help Rotary rid the world of polio.

Since Rotary launched its PolioPlus program  in 1985, eradicating the disease has become the organization's top priority.  End Polio Now  and help fulfill Rotary's promise to the world.

 

 

As of September 15, 2011, Rotarians have raised about $190 million for Rotary's US$200 Million Challenge. These contributions will help Rotary raise $200 million to match $355 million in challenge grants received from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The resulting $555 million will directly support immunization campaigns in developing countries, where polio continues to infect and paralyze children, robbing them of their futures and compounding the hardships faced by their families.

As long as polio threatens even one child anywhere in the world, children everywhere remain at risk. The stakes are that high.

We are close!  During Rotary Foundation Month make sure you continue to donate to Polio by dropping your spare change and dollars into the green buckets at Rotary meetings.

 

This Close from Rotary International on Vimeo.

Veterans Day, which commemorates the signing of the armistice following World War I, is observed on November 11 each year.  Veterans Day gives Americans the opportunity to celebrate the bravery and sacrifice of all U.S. Veterans. There are several ways to celebrate Veterans Day.

Moral codes and ethics give us tools but also raise questions to be answered: How should we live? What is morally good and bad, right and wrong? Shall we aim at happiness or knowledge? Virtue or the creation of beautiful objects? If we choose happiness, will it be our own or the happiness of all?

And what of the more specific questions that face us? Is it right to be dishonest for a good cause? Can we justify living in opulence while elsewhere in the world people are starving? Is going to war warranted in cases where innocent people will likely be killed?

Ethics deals with such questions at all levels. The subject’s core consists of the fundamental issues of practical decision making, and its major concerns include the nature of ultimate value and the standards by which human actions can be judged right or wrong.

For Rotary, The Four-Way Test is the cornerstone of all action. It has been for years, and it will be in the future. Of the things we think, say or do

1. Is it the TRUTH?
2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?
3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

The test is one of the hallmarks of Rotary. Since it was developed in 1932 by Herbert J. Taylor, who later became RI president, it has never ceased to be relevant. Its four brief questions are not based on culture or religion. Instead, they are a simple checklist for ethical behavior. They transcend generations and national borders.

As Rotarians, we should have The Four-Way Test in mind in every decision we make, all day long. Our utmost responsibility is to speak the truth, to be fair, to build goodwill and better friendships, and to do our very best in all situations.

There are many reasons individuals become Rotarians.  The main reason we remain Rotarians?  It's who we are! 

Check out this video that shares the stories of How individuals got started with Rotary!

 

On Thursday, October 20, the Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club welcomed 2 new members:  Rebecca from Androscoggin Bank and Mike from Key Bank.

Club Members stood and welcomed our members into the friendship and World of Rotary International!

October 24, 2011 is World Polio Day, an ideal time to raise public awareness of the ravages of polio and garner support for eradication efforts. October 24th, marks the birth of Jonas Salk who was the leader of the team that invented a polio vaccine in 1955. In 1988 Albert Sabin developed an oral polio vaccine.

To eradicate polio, Rotarians have mobilized by the hundreds of thousands. We’re working to ensure that children are immunized against this crippling disease and that surveillance is strong despite the poor infrastructure, extreme poverty, and civil strife of many countries. 

Polio, which can cause lifelong paralysis, can be prevented with a vaccine that costs only $0,60. In the 1980s, polio paralyzed at least 1,000 children every day all over the world, but today, after international efforts to immunize every child everywhere, 5 million people are walking who would otherwise be paralyzed and the world is almost polio-free.

The success is the result of an improved vaccine and the intense efforts over the past several years by the Global Polio Eradication Partnership, a partnership that includes Rotary International, the UN Foundation, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, UNICEF, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and WHO. Since the Initiative’s inception in 1988, more than two billion children have received the oral polio vaccine and the number of polio cases has dropped by 99%.

Rotary's US$200 Million Challenge is the Rotary Foundation's response to the two grants totaling $355 million from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to help eradicate polio. Every dollar given to PolioPlus will be counted toward the $200 million match, which must be completed by 30 June 2012.

Help spread the word and "Like" the World Polio Day facebook page.

 

 

 

The eWaste Recycling Fundraiser held on Saturday, October 15 was a true SUCCESS!

The Lewiston Rotary Club joined forces with the Auburn Rotary Club to provide an avenue for community members to drop off and recycle tvs, computers, cell phones, batteries, tires, items to be shredded and more.  The community embraced the project and helped us raise over $1,100.

All of the money raised is being split between the Lewiston and Auburn Rotary Clubs and being used to support mission trips to Haiti.  In January 2012, both clubs are seprataly visiting Haiti and doing misison work to support 2 orphanages.

Check out pictures by visiting the Photo Album section of this website.  Plus, watch for more information on the Haiti mission trip coming soon......

Harold Wochholz knows what it’s like to battle polio. Paralyzed by the disease at age 24, he could only move his hands at first. Now a retired engineer, and mobile in a wheelchair, he speaks to schoolchildren in Phoenix, Arizona, USA, about the disease and what they can do to help eradicate it.

Wochholz, a member of the Rotary Club of Sun Lakes, Arizona, and chair of Rotary District 5510’s PolioPlus Subcommittee, worked with the Chandler public school district to establish PolioPlus as the single fundraiser for the district’s 43 schools during the 2010-11 year. He briefed student council representatives about the program, and approximately 400 students helped raise funds, using PolioPlus collection boxes and classroom presentations on the importance of eradicating the disease. The effort netted more than $23,000 for PolioPlus in support of Rotary’s US$200 Million Challenge.

One school’s fifth and sixth grade classes took on a fundraiser as part of an extra credit project. Wochholz provided 100 copies each of Rotary’s Amazing Stories of Polio! illustrated history of the disease and the September 2010 issue of The Rotarian , which featured coverage of polio survivors, for students’ use in the project.

“The [students] shared in reading those two documents and briefed the other grade levels about polio and their intent to conduct a polio fundraiser at their school’s annual fall picnic,” he says. “They had an excellent awareness of Rotary’s commitment to coordinate the world’s health resources toward polio eradication. I was most pleased with their comments and certainly with the $1,800 they raised.”

World Polio Day is October 24.  Show your support at each and every Rotary meeting or show your support by donating online today!

 

The Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club is teaming up with the Auburn-Lewiston Rotary Club to help our community and raise some money all at the same time.

Date:  Saturday, October 15
Time:  8:00am-2:00pm
Location:  Stratham Tire, 150 Center Street, Auburn ME

The following items will be accepted for recycling:

• TVs
• DVD players
• VCRs
• Radios/Stereos
• Microwaves
• Computers
• Keyboards
• Computer Mouse
• Scanners
• Printers
• Batteries
• Cell Phones
• Game Consoles
• Documents to be Securely Shredded
• Tires (limited to 4 per vehicle, no commercial tires)

DONATIONS ACCEPTED!
Donations will be accepted with proceeds to benefit the orphanages being visited by the Rotary Work Teams (both Clubs) who are traveling to Haiti in January 2012.

The Youths of of Community are our future!  New Generations, Rotary's fifth avenue of service, is the next generation of Rotarians. 

Every year, thousands of talented and dedicated young people, ages 12-30, have an incredible experience in a New Generations program. As Rotaractors and Interactors, they serve in communities at home and abroad. Through Rotary Youth Exchange, they explore new cultures. And as Rotary Youth Leadership Awards participants, they learn skills that will help them succeed as future community leaders.

Check out this video and see how the Syosset High School Interact Club has made a difference in the World!  

The Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club is fortunate to be the sponsor of the Lisbon High School Interact Club! Remember they are the next generation of Rotary! Reach out a hand and ask how you can help!!!

As many teens are going back to school, many other teens are wondering where they will be living tomorrow.  Many of these teens find comfort in a local organization called "New Beginnings."  They'll be joining us on Septembr 15th to talk about the services they provide.  

New Beginnings will be the focus of our September service project.  All Rotarians are asked and encouarged to a Closet makeover.  Clena out your closets, encourage your family and friends to clean out their closets, and donate your gently used items to help others.  Items can be brought to any Rotary meeting.

For more information on New Beginnings, click here.

 

Among the key goals of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) is interrupting transmission of the wild poliovirus by the end of 2012. Although the GPEI Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) reported in July that this goal may be in jeopardy, it also noted signs of progress and provided several recommendations that could help get the program back on track. 

The GPEI has made significant steps forward since the launch last year of its new strategic plan and the bivalent oral polio vaccine. Among the four polio-endemic countries, India has reported only one case of polio so far this year. The country “is on track to interrupt transmission this year,” the report states.   

“The northern part of India, where most of the problem had been, hasn’t had one case in 15 months,” adds Robert S. Scott, chair of Rotary’s International PolioPlus Committee.  

The other polio-endemic countries are Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Pakistan. The IMB report cites good progress in Afghanistan while spotlighting the challenge of immunizing children in conflict areas. Nigeria also has been making good headway but, following elections in April, needs to sustain the political commitment required to ensure eradication of the disease.

In Pakistan, cases doubled in the first six months of 2011, compared with the same period in 2010. The report commended the country’s high-level commitment to polio eradication through its national emergency action plan, launched in January, but added that the plan needs to make a stronger impact at the local level.  

 

During its June meeting, the Rotary International Board of Directors adopted a new membership slogan, " Each Rotarian: Reach One, Keep One ." The slogan emphasizes the importance of both recruitment and retention in sustaining and increasing membership.  

Invite someone to join you for a meeting - Invite someone to join in the membersip of Rotary. Tell them what Rotary means to you and all that we accomplish as Rotarians.

Rotary International, the world’s first service organization, is made up of over 33,000 clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical areas. Its members form a global network of business, professional and community leaders who volunteer their time and talents to serve their communities and the world.

Rotary's motto, Service Above Self, exemplifies the humanitarian spirit of the organization's more than 1.2 million members. Strong fellowship among Rotarians and meaningful community and international service projects characterize Rotary worldwide.

Encourage prospective Rotarians to watch this short video:

It's that time of year again!  It's time to put on our plastic gloves, roll up our sleeves and sell chicken nuggets, french fries and onion rings at the Great Falls Balloon Festival. 

Aside from working the shifts you have signed up for, make sure you spend some time enjoying all the festivities.  There's a lot going on in our community and this is a wonderful showing of the people that are attracted to our community because of these festivities.  For a complete list of festivities, click here.

Plus make sure you support your Rotary Club and other worthwhile community organziations by purchasing some food at the food booths.

The Balloon Festival will be held at the Simard-Payne Memorial Park in Lewiston on the following dates:

• Friday, August 19
• Saturday, August 20
• Sunday, August 21
  

In May 2011, the Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club sponsored a new Interact Club at Lisbon High School.  The Interact Club has set the dates for their 2011-2012 meetings and all Rotarians are welcome and encouraged to attend any meeting.  If you're interested in attending please email Monica Millhime, the Interact Club Advisor.

Each year, Interact clubs complete at least two community service projects, one of which furthers international understanding and goodwill. Through these efforts, Interactors develop a network of friendships with local and overseas clubs and learn the importance of

• Developing leadership skills and personal integrity
• Demonstrating helpfulness and respect for others
• Understanding the value of individual responsibility and hard work
• Advancing international understanding and goodwill

The Lisbon Interact Club will be working with the Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club on their service projects and activities.  Likewise, the Rotary Club will also be called upon to assist the Interact Club with their projects.

 For a complete listing of Interact Club meetins, click here for more information.

What would it take to change the world? Rotary's 1.2 million members believe it starts with a commitment to Service Above Self.

In more than 34,000 clubs worldwide, you'll find members volunteering in communities at home and abroad to support education and job training, provide clean water, combat hunger, improve health and sanitation, and eradicate polio. 

This is RotaryEN from Rotary International on Vimeo.

LAST CHANCE TO BRING IN SCHOOL SUPPLIES FOR OUR AUGUST SERVICE PROJECT!

We'll be wrapping up our Auust service project on Thursday, September 8th.  Immediately following the meeting several Rotarians will be bringing all the collected school supplies over to Montello Elementary School.  Please be sure to bring your donations to the meeting with you this week.

School supplies that are needed include:

• Notebooks
• 3 Ring Binders
• Pencils
• Pens
• Crayons
• Colored Pencils
• Markers
• Highlighters
• Pencil Sharpener
• Glue Sticks
• Erasers
• Folders
• Hand Sanitizer
• Tissues

For thoser Rotarians that have collection boxes at their business, please bring your donated items but hold onto your boxes; they can be used for our September service project!

It's that time of year again!  It's time to put on our plastic gloves, roll up our sleeves and sell chicken nuggets, french fries and onion rings at the Great Falls Balloon Festival.  We need your help by filling in shifts to help us raise money for the many worthwhile organizations we support year after year.

The Balloon Festival will be held at the Simard-Payne Memorial Park in Lewiston on the following dates, with the following shifts available:

Friday, August 19
2:00pm-7:00pm
4:00pm-8:00pm
5:00pm-9:00pm
6:00pm-10:00pm

Saturday, August 20
11:00am-2:00pm
2:00pm-6:00pm
4:00pm-8:00pm
6:00pm-10:00pm

Sunday, August 21
11:00am-2:00pm
2:00pm-6:00pm
4:00pm-8:00pm
4:00pm-6:00pm (at the Railroad Bridge)

More than 770 million adults worldwide do not know how to read. In an increasingly complex world, illiteracy condemns many of them to the lowest rungs of society. Learn how Rotarians around the World are helping support basic education and literacy, an area of focus under the Future Vision Plan. 

The Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club has devoted its July service project to focus on literacy in our community.  We would like to encourage all members to stand behind the effort and donate an hour of their time every week to read to children through the Book Reach program.  Interested Rotarians should contact fellow Rotarian Mac McPeake:  mtpeake@comcast.net

For more information on Book Reach, click here.

The Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club is partnering with the Haiti International Alliance for our Club’s International Service Project.

On January 9, 2012, Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club Members along with some family and friends will embark on a week-long trip to Port au Prince, Haiti. During the week, team members will receive room and board through the Kingdom of Kids Orphanage (KKO) in Port au Prince. KKO is home to approximately 95 orphans, most of whom lost their families in the January, 2010 earthquake. Significantly understaffed, team members will have the opportunity to care and interact with the orphans while at the orphanage. The children crave this humanistic interaction and benefit tremendously from the attention.

The work project will involve building a school in Village Solidarity during the day. On one of the days during the mission trip, the team will engage in a feeding program at La Saline, the very poorest section, just outside of Port au Prince, where many children are fed mud pies, in the absence of daily food. A field trip will be organized for one other day when team members will take the orphans to the beach for an outing. 

Individuals who are interested in making a commitment to join this team, must complete an application and give a deposit check of $250.00 (payable to: Haiti International Alliance) to the Rotary Club President, Stephanie Gelinas,  by Tuesday, July 26^th. Additional information can be obtained by contacting Stephanie at 207-754-5150.

At the first Club Assembly of 2011-2012, Club President Stepahnie Gelinas set the stage for what will be a fantastic and energetic year!  President Stephanie asked all Rotarians to Reach Within to Embrace Humanity .She asked all Rotarians  to search first within themselves, to understand that all of us, everywhere, have the same dreams, the same hopes, the same aspirations, and similar dilemmas. When we understand, and truly feel, that others’ needs are the same as our own, we begin to understand how important our work is. She asked us to keep this in mind as we moved forward into the new Rotary year.

President Stephanie also asked each Committee Chair from the board to share their plans and goals for the ensuing year:

There's something that all Rotary club members have in common: We take action. As community volunteers, we reach out to neighbors in need. We build, support, and organize. We save lives. We work locally and globally.

Around the world and around the corner, the 1.2 million men and women of Rotary

• Get involved in their communities
• Connect with other professionals
• Share their time and experience with young people
• Support global causes, such as eradicating polio
• Use their skills to help others

Whether you're a veteran volunteer or new to community service, we're looking for people like you. Contact us today and discover the benefits of joining Rotary!

You're Welcome from Rotary International on Vimeo.

2011-2012 RI President, Kalyan Banerjee, says "We need to commit ourselves absolutely and fully and say, What I must do shall indeed be done."

Here's a letter from him as seen on the RI website:

All of us in Rotary are looking to change the world – why else would we be Rotarians? We believe that our world can be happier, healthier, and more peaceful, and that we can create that better world through our service.

In 2011-12, I will ask Rotarians to Reach Within to Embrace Humanity . I will ask you to search first within yourselves, to understand that all of us, everywhere, have the same dreams, the same hopes, the same aspirations, and similar dilemmas. When we understand, and truly feel, that others’ needs are the same as our own, we begin to understand how important our work is. In the year ahead, we will have three emphases in our Rotary service.

Our first emphasis in this Rotary year will be the family. The family and the home are at the core of all our work – all our service begins here. And through the family, we approach all of our community and indeed, all of humanity, as an extended family, in which all members care for each other. In times of joy and in times of need, no one is ever alone.

Our second emphasis will be continuity – finding the things we do well and taking them to the next level. We must build on our successes, expand on them, and strive to do even more. Of course, our greatest obligation is to PolioPlus, where success is now so close.

And our third emphasis will be change. We must understand that true change can only begin with each of us, and start within us. We cannot share peace with others if we do not have it to give. We cannot look after the whole world without first looking after those closest to us: our families, our clubs, and our communities.

Mohandas K. Gandhi said, “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” In Rotary, we endeavor to live ethically and honestly, to share friendship and fellowship, to see equal worth in every human being. We are not interested in the lowest common denominator, for Rotary is anything but common. Instead, we work to elevate ourselves, elevate others, and thereby embrace the world.

Together, we will Reach Within to Embrace Humanity . And in peace, harmony, and friendship, we will bring change – and a more joyful world.

Kalyan Banerjee
President, Rotary International

 For more  information on the 2011-2012 RI President, click here.

Stephanie Gelinas begins her year as President by continuing the tradition of asking Rotarians to live by our motto, Service Above Self.  In doing so, the Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club will be asking all members to participate in monthly service projects.

Community Service Co-Chairs, Christine Wilson and Celeste Yakawonis, announced that the July service project will be Book Reach!  Book Reach is an organization made up of over 40 volunteers who commit a minimum of 1 hour per week to read to children at over a hundred day cares in the Lewiston-Auburn area.  Research and statistics show that children who are read to starting at a very young age generally excel and perform better when they enter school.  The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) "strongly recommends reading to children every day, starting after they are first born," because "reading stimulates the development of the brain, language and a closer emotional relationship with a child." 

The Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club would like to encourage all of its members to stand behind the effort and donate an hour of their time every week to read to children.  Interested Rotarians should contact fellow Rotarian Mac McPeake:  mtpeake@comcast.net

For more information on Book Reach, click here.

As the Rotary Club of Lewiston-Auburn closed the 2010-2011, Rotary Club President, Jennifer Hogan, thanked every Rotarian in the Club for proving why "Service Above Self" is out motto and ho we live up to the motto each and every day.  Hogan said "We have worked extremely hard this year to improve the lives of those around us, both in our respective communities and in countries that so not have our standard of living or the resources we have."

Hogan celebrated her last day as President by thanking all of the members and the officers on the board.  A slide show presentation, prepared by Shawn Wright, was presented displaying all the fun and service we have experienced in the past year.  

Looking to do a make-up?  Traveling away from home and want to visit another Rotary Club?

You can now search for a Rotary club with RI's free iPhone app. In the Apple app store it's called the Rotary Club Locator from Rotary International. The app also will soon be offered for Android phones. 

If you have questions or feedback, please let RI know by e-mailing the Contact Center at contact.center@rotary.org.

 

 

Why are you a Rotarian? What does Service Above Self mean to you?  How can you get more involved?

Hear answers to these questions and more from Rotarians around the world with Rotary Minute. Each month, we’ll feature a new video about a topic of interest to you.

In 2010-2011 the Rotary Club of Lewiston-Auburn exceeded its goal for EREY funds, rasiing over $5,900.  Your contributions to the Annual Programs Fund through the Every Rotarian, Ever Year initative support life-changing projects around the world.  Learh how your donations are making a difference, and get involved today.

During a trip to Niger on a Rotary Foundation grant, Ernie and Sally Montagne of Arizona, USA, saw firsthand how the Foundation's humanitarian efforts are helping to break the cycle of hunger and poverty.

“The Rotary Foundation is our vehicle of choice to enable ordinary Rotarians to make a lasting difference in the lives of thousands of villagers in Africa,” says Ernie.

Contributions to the Annual Programs Fund through the Every Rotarian, Every Year (EREY) initiative are the primary source of funding for Foundation programs, including those that helped support efforts in Niger. These programs cover more than 160 countries and geographical areas on seven continents. 

Here is a small sample of projects made possible through EREY:

• In the aftermath of Hurricane Mitch, Rotary clubs helped create Nueva Esperanza, (New Hope), a sustainable community in Honduras for poor families devastated by the storm. Using a Health, Hunger and Humanity (3-H) Grant, Rotary clubs in Honduras and California, USA, provided books, computers, and medical equipment for Nueva Esperanza, helping families put their lives back together.
• With the help of a Rotary Foundation District Simplified Grant, the Rotary Club of West Jacksonville, Florida, USA, built a baseball field designed for local children with disabilities. The unique turf allows players using wheelchairs, walkers, and crutches to easily maneuver across the field with the help of an on-field “buddy” -- a volunteer, parent, or friend. 
• A 3-H grant sponsored by the Rotary clubs of Calcutta Metropolitan, West Bengal, India, and Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada, helped establish a half-mile concrete walkway in Nabapally, India, that serves as an escape route for villagers during annual monsoons.

Make your contribution today.  Send a check in with your dues payment or donate $2 a week every time to come to Rotary!

President-Elect Stephanie Gelinas presided over the meeting today in Pres. Jen’s absence.  She opened the meeting with The Pledge of Allegiance and Tom Knight led the singing of God Bless America.  Claire Durgin gave the invocation before lunch.

 

VISITORS:

 

 Chris Paradis and Donna Hannon visited us from the Auburn-Lewiston Breakfast Rotary Club.

 

 

DRAWING & HAPPY DOLLARS:

 

The 50/50 Drawing was won today by Alan Hahnel after three tries!

 

Happy Dollars were given by John O’Malley and Alan Hahnel

 

Adam Dow auctioned off a pair of ladies mittens made by Kathy Becvar.  Nancy Brown won the mittens with her bid.

 

BUSINES FOCUS:

.

Today’s business spotlight was on Christine Wilson and Met-Life.  Christine offered us advise and her services along with freebie brochures regarding services offered by Met-Life.

 

FOUNDATION MINUTE:

 .

Nancy Brown gave the foundation thought.   This week’s Rotary Foundation Thought highlights the cooperation between two Rotary Peace and Conflict Studies Program alumni.

Rotary Peace and Conflict Studies Program alumnus, Francis Kabosha is busy repatriating refugees in Zambia back to their homeland in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Through the repatriation process, Francis also educates the leaders of the repatriated groups in the ways of peace to help them build and maintain peace in their home areas. He recently called his fellow RPCS alumnus, Abdulai Jalloh, logistics officer for the United Nations in DRC, to say, “I’m giving them the tools to build peace, you must ensure they reach their destinations safely.” Francis and Abdulai now work together to build peace in the region. Keep in mind, every dollar that you contribute to The Rotary Foundation goes to actual program spending

 

Thank you to all Rotarians and their family and friends who volunteered during the Great Falls Balloon Festival Weekend!  The great weather helped us to raise over $7000 in food sales.

Thank you to all who helped with the set-up, cooking, scooping, selling, clean-up and tear -down during the 3-day event.  Although it is hard work, it is certainly fun to fellowship and work alongside Rotarians and friends.

Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club Purchases a Shelter Box!

 

During our meeting on August 12, Rotarian Peter Kowalski spoke about the Shelter Box program which started as a Centennial Project by a Rotary Club in England and has been embraced by the entire Rotary community.

 

President Jen Hogan has pledged $500 towards the $1000 purchase price of a Shelter Box.  When Peter asked if anyone in our audience could match the club’s $500, visiting guest and former Rotarian Mike Bilodeau of Bilodeau Insurance came forward and presented a check to Peter for the $500 match!

 

Rotarian Claire Veilleux also pledged $25 and challenged all other members to match her donation.  Several other Rotarians have committed to a minimum of $25.  There is a Shelter Box donation box which will be at all our meetings for the month of August.  Rotarians are urged to drop off their donations here in support of our August Community Service Project.

 

Thank you to Peter Kowalski for bringing Shelter Box to our attention and to Mike Bilodeau and Bilodeau Insurance for their generous gift.  Thank you to all others who are helping to fund all or a part of a second Shelter Box.

By Ryan Hyland
Rotary International News -- 3 August 2010

Rotarian Stephen Cooper (rear); Pamela
Solman, member of the Good Samaritan Foundation
of Haiti; and Joseph Phelix, founder and director of
the foundation, distribute food to residents of Île à
Vache in June. Photo courtesy of Stephen Cooper

 
More than six months after Haiti sustained a
massive earthquake, Rotary clubs and account
holders of the Haiti Earthquake Relief Fund are
beginning to allocate resources to help rebuild
schools, provide prosthetics, and equip thousands
with adequate shelter.
Despite assistance from around the world, the
situation in Haiti remains bleak. An estimated 1.5
million Haitians still live in tent cities, while billions
of dollars in aid from foreign countries has yet to
materialize. Debris from 280,000 destroyed
homes and buildings clogs the streets of Port-au-
Prince.
Rotarians have contributed more than US$2
million to the Haiti Earthquake Relief Fund, a
donor advised fund set up by The Rotary
Foundation.
"By beginning the work on many of the projects,
we anticipate that additional funds will be
contributed by Rotarians who are motivated to continue that help," says Past RI Vice President Eric
E. Lacoste Adamson, an account holder and member of the Rotary Club of Front Royal, Virginia,
USA. "We also hope to encourage other partners and NGOs [nongovernmental organizations] to
match these funds so that we can double or triple the impact of the funds in Haiti."
 

Shelter Box is our community service focus for the month of August.  Cash donations will be taken throughout the month to help support this program.  Hopefully we can raise enough funds to buy one Shelter Box to be sent where needed in time of crisis.

 

 

Only new equipment is used and is carefully selected for durability, practicality and suitability for where it is needed. Tough, lightweight and waterproof, the box itself can also have many useful functions from food container to cot. We also continually work with a range of manufacturers to improve the quality and extend the range of equipment that we have available.

A range of equipment is kept in stock. This lets us adjust the contents of the box according to local conditions and what is most urgently needed. Sometimes particularly if other resources are available locally and the overwhelming need is for shelter we will just send tents and pack two in each box.
 

Depending on the location and nature of the disaster the contents of the box may vary but each box typically contains...

Shelter
At the heart of every ShelterBox is a disaster relief tent for a family of up to 10 people. It is custom made for ShelterBox by Vango, one of the world’s leading tent manufacturers, and is designed to withstand extreme temperatures, high winds and heavy rainfall. Internally, each tent has privacy partitions that allow recipients to divide the space as they see fit.



A smile
A children’s pack containing drawing books, crayons and pens. For children who have lost most, if not all,their possessions, these small gifts are treasured.



Warmth and protection
In addition to the tent, there is a range of other survival equipment including thermal blankets and insulated ground sheets, essential in areas where temperatures plummet at nightfall. Where malaria is prevalent mosquito nets are supplied, as well a life saving means of water purification. Water supplies often become contaminated after a major disaster, as infrastructure and sanitation systems are destroyed, this presents a secondary but no less dangerous threat to survivors than the initial disaster itself.



Self sufficiency
A basic tool kit containing a hammer, axe, saw, trenching shovel, hoe head, pliers and wire cutters enables people to improve their immediate environment, by chopping firewood or digging a latrine, for example. Then, when it is possible, to start repairing or rebuilding the home they were forced to leave.



Fit for purpose
Every item is durable, practical and brand new. The box itself is lightweight and waterproof and has been used for a variety of purposes in the past - from water and food storage containers to a cot for a newly born baby.



A heart to the home
Key items are either a wood burning or multi-fuel stove. The multi-fuel stove can burn anything from diesel to old paint. Some boxes also contain our specially designed wood burning Frontier Stove, pictured below. This provides the heart of the new home where water is boiled, food is cooked and families congregate. In addition, there are pans, utensils, bowls, mugs and water storage containers.



Adaptability
We keep a broad range of equipment in stock so we can adapt the contents of a box to a specific disaster. For example, following the Javanese earthquake in 2006, when some resources were available locally or could be salvaged from one storey buildings, the overwhelming need was for shelter – so we just sent tents, packing two in each box.

My fellow Rotarians,

I wish to personally thank you all for your overwhelming response to our community service project this month...with your help it was a huge success!

Together we were able to donate over 20 bags of food, canned food, litter, office supplies, trash bags, toys as well as $25 in cash donations to the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society!!

As we heard from our speaker, Zac Black...this could not have come as a better time for the shelter!

I also appreciated all of your efforts in loading the trucks, and thank you to Nancy Brown and Kathy Becvar for helping to deliver the items to the shelter...many hands certainly do make lighter work!!

When we arrived...a shelter volunteer came out and said, "Wow! Where did all this come from??"...and another volunteer piped up, "From Rotary!"

Your efforts truly make a difference!!

Many Thanks,

Shawn

 

President-Elect and Membership Chair Stephanie Gelinas inducted two new members into the Rotary Club of Lewiston-Auburn on July 29, at our noon luncheon meeting at the Ramada Inn.

Inducted into the club were George Gendron of the Ramada Inn sponsored by Dennis Barriault and Mark Coursey of USM/Lewiston-Auburn College sponsored by Kathy Becvar.

We welcome both gentlemen to our club!

By Arnold R. Grahl 
Rotary International News -- 28 July 2010 

 

 

A child receives oral polio vaccine in Kano, Nigeria. Prashant Panjiar/Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

 

 

Bill Gates says he is impressed with the progress Nigeria has made against polio and urges partners in the fight to eradicate the disease not to let up. 

Gates, cochair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, shared personal observations from his June trip to Nigeria on his blog, Gates Notes. The post, along with others about polio, are appearing this week on the Gates Foundation blog, Foundation Notes.

In addition, the Gates Foundation website is highlighting two videos produced in June for the Global Polio Eradication Initiative.

"I was very excited to visit northern Nigeria in June, because the progress there since my last visit in February 2009 has been especially impressive," Gates writes. As of 20 July, only six cases of the wild poliovirus have been reported in Nigeria this year, compared with 346 during the same period in 2009.

The Gates Foundation has given Rotary US$355 million in grants for its work to eradicate polio. In response, Rotary has committed to raising $200 million. As of 30 June, Rotary has raised $141.2 million. 

On his blog, Gates says he spent most of his first day in the northern state of Kano, which has been vulnerable to polio, meeting with community leaders, visiting a local health center, and stopping at a school where students were studying the Quran in Arabic.

"On the streets and most everywhere else we went, I noticed so many young children around," he writes. "Nigeria has more people by far than any other African country, and more than 40 percent of them are under the age of 15. That makes polio immunization a big challenge." 

Gates adds that during his trip, he learned about creative approaches to inform Nigerians about polio immunization. Pro-immunization messages are being woven into the plotlines of popular TV shows, and one of Nigeria's major mobile phone service providers has agreed to send about 25 million free text messages about polio and health.

He also mentions the importance of engaging local leaders and says the 'commitment from Nigeria's leaders has been crucial' to the fight against polio in the country. While in the capital city of Abuja, he had dinner with the minister of health, and the next day met with the nation's new president, Goodluck Jonathan. 

One of the videos on the Gates Foundation website praises efforts that have reduced the threat of polio by 99 percent but stresses the need to finish the job. "If you were an athlete, you would never only run 99 percent of the race," a voiceover on the video announces. "An astronaut wouldn't fly only 99 percent of the way to the moon, and a firefighter would never just put out 99 percent of a fire."

 

 

 

September 2010

Bigger, Better, Bolder

This year marks a significant anniversary for Rotary! Although the Rotary Club of Chicago started in 1905, the first convention of Rotary clubs was held in August of 1910 with 60 Rotarians representing 16 clubs. Our history as an organization of Rotary clubs started with that meeting in 1910, and we are now commencing a second century of service for Rotary as an association.

All of us want this century of service to be even more successful than the last. Therefore, this is an opportune time to ask: Are we taking the right steps to ensure that success? Are we doing the right things? Do we have a clear vision of the future? In the words of “ America the Beautiful,” can we “see beyond the years”?

As Rotary’s 100th president, I believe we are moving in the right direction. Our 33,000 clubs are Rotary’s biggest asset, and our success in the next 100 years will depend on the ability of our clubs to remain vibrant and vital. Their strength will determine our success!

The RI Board has taken several steps to offer more assistance to our clubs this year, including creating the Rotary Coordinators program to assist district governors in providing information about Rotary International’s programs and best practices to the clubs.

I firmly believe that if we help our clubs to become better and bolder, then the clubs will become bigger – both because of the increased pride of our Rotarians in their clubs and the increased awareness of Rotary by prospective members. Therefore, my goal is to help the district governors to help their clubs to become Bigger, Better, and Bolder!

This is a great time to be a Rotarian. Together we can make this century of service even more exciting than the last!  

Ray Klinginsmith 
President, Rotary International

President Jen Hogan opened our meeting with the Pledge of Allegience and Adam Dow led us in singing God Bless America.  Stu Price gave the invocation before lunch.  Gary Adams was once again a guest while he is here on vacation. 

After three attempts to pick a winner, Paul Lacombe finally won the 50/50!

 

*HAPPY DOLLARS:

Paul Lacombe was certainly happy that the three previous ticket holders did not come forward for their winnings.

Claire Veilleux was happy that her granddaughter was celebrating her 20th birhtday.

While Peter Kowalski was happy that his first granddaughter was born last Saturday!  (Congratulations, Grampa!)

PP John Belisle paid a happy dollar for the privilege of presenting PDG Sylvia Plourde with a token of appreciaton for all her hard work and dedication as District Governor during the past Rotary year.

Adam Dow was happy that as of Monday, he is now an engaged man!  (Congratulations to Adam and his fiance!)

 

*MEETING:

President Jen began the Club Assembly with her President's Message to the club....which can be read on our website.  One of her first orders of business was to do away with the protocol in addressing the President and club.  Jen would like to keep it more informal.  She then invited each board member to the podium for a brief overview of our goals for the upcoming Rotary year.

MEMBERSHIP:  President-Elect Stephanie Gelinas updated us on our current membership (55) and stated our membership goal for the year is a net increase of four new members.   She also told us that we want to keep our dues down to be affordable to all; therefore, the club is not passing on the RI dues increase to our members this year.  The club will absorb the extra costs.  We also want to get not only the Rotary name out in the community but also the names of our members and their businesses out in the community so that potential members are able to see who around them are in Rotary.  We will once again be a "Spotlighter" at an upcoming Chamber of Commerce Breakfast where approximately 200-300 people attend.  Stephanie also asked each member to participate in listing three potential members on a form and passing the names along to her.  Anyone who participates in providing names will be eligible for a very special drawing of a $20 gift certificate to the very tasty Grant's Bakery!

PROGRAMS:   In Vice-President and Program Chair Nancy Richard's abscence, President Jenn told us that we are looking for different and exciting programs to add to our meetings.  We are looking to have more classification talks, entertainment and other programs in addition to the non-profit organizations who usually speak at our meetings.  We will also showcase a different organization every month. (more on this in the Community Service piece below).

CLUB SERVICE:  Mac McPeake and Adam Dow are co-chairing this committee.  In Mac's absence, Adam told us of ideas he has for more fun and fellowship in our meetings.  We would like to have more team building and getting to know each other activities such as Telephone Line and Helium Stick.  The Club Service Committee is always open to new ideas from the membership.

 

Carleton Ring with daughter Cheryl


On June 24, Rotarian Carleton Ring was celebrated and honored at the Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Clubs luncheon at the Ramada Inn in Lewiston.

As many of you know, Carl has moved to Hallowell and will no longer be making our weekly meetings. His daughter Cheryl brought him to the meeting so we could thank him for everything he has done for our club for the past 48 years! Carl has been a member of The Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club since 1962! He has been Sargeant-at-Arms for our club for many years.

Several Rotarians told stories and tidbits about Carl. Rotarian Don Grant made a special cake showcasing Carl's original Rotary picture, the Rotary wheel and the dates Carl was a member.

We will certainly miss Carl's presence and stories at our weekly meetings. Carl will try to visit us as often as possible.

Thank you to all the volunteers who helped out with set up, cooking, scooping, customer service and clean up of our food booth at the Liberty Festival on the Fourth of July! 

The weather held out for a beautiful day and awesome display of fireworks!

There will be a full accounting of funds raised at an upcoming meeting.

Paul Lacombe was inducted into the Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club as a new member for the second time. Paul was a first-time member in 1988. He was also President in the Rotary year 2003-2004 and is a Paul Harris Fellow.

Paul left the club when he retired and has now joined again. We are pleased and fortunate to have Paul return as a member of our club!

President John Belisle presided over his last official meeting as this year's Rotary Club President. John highlighted some of our accomplishments over the year.

It was a challenging year to raise the funds needed to achieve our club goals as we were plagued with inclement weather for both the Liberty and Balloon Feistivals. We still were able to to award seven $1000 scholarships, one more than the privious year, five community donations totaling $3500, $1000 to the District Project, $1000 to the Haiti Relief Fund, $250 to the Afganistan School project and another $200 in miscellaneous requests. John thanked all those who helped make it possible to raise $13000 during the 2009-2010 Rotary Year.

John highlighted our Polio Plus donations of more than $2000 and our EREY goal was exceeded as well.

As we look to strengthen the leadership of our club, we sent a new member to the Rotary Youth Leadship weekend; Three members attended the Rotary Leadership Institute and our President-Elect and Secretary went to the P.E.T.s training in St. Georges, Quebec.

We also had the dinstinct privilege of having one of our very own members as District Governor. Sylvia Plourde worked extremely hard in making sure to visit every club in our district. She continued her effors with the immense responsiblilty of orgainizing the most exceptional and succesful District Conference experienced in our district in decades. She is, without a doubt, an exceptional Rotarian and worthy of our club sponsorship for receiving her second Paul Harris fellow's distinction.

Our club was honored with both The Presidential Citation and the District Governor's Citation at the district conference because of the goals we have achieved during the past Rotary year. John thanked all members for their part in reaching and exceeding the goals set for achieving these awards.

Click the link to see a slide show of pictures from this past weekend's District Conference.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_uLpk-AVEM

Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club President John Belisle presents scholarship to Ali Desjardin of St. Dominic Regional High School.


Alexandra Desjardin was presented a $1000 scholarship award at our annual awards banquet on May 12 at the Ramada Inn in Lewiston.

Alexandra's high school career shows a balance between academics, athletics and community service. Community service includes serving as the President of School's Key Club, and participating in the Mission to Mississippi as well as the Music Ministry.

Alexandra has also demonstrated her leadership qualities by being elected secretary of the student senate and captain of the soccer and hockey teams while being selected player of the year in soccer and named a first team all-star in both sports.

And, earlier this month Alexandra was recently recognized with the Chamber President's Award at the Auburn - Lewiston Sports Hall of Fame. She is planning to attend Bates College â€" Lewiston, ME.

Attending the event with Alexandra were her parents Mary & Greg and Don Bonneau Guidance Director.

Rotarian Bill Denehy presents scholarship to Samantha Marquis of Poland Regional High School.

Samantha Marquis was presented a $1000 scholarship award at our annual awards banquet on May 12 at the Ramada Inn in Lewiston.

Samantha is a committed student carrying an A average through her senior year. Her commitment to community service is equally impressive, which includes volunteering at Big Brother Big Sister Bowl for Kids Sake fund raising events, Mechanic Falls Santa Program for needy families, Internship at Elm Street School and Mechanic Falls Library. Samantha is a 4-year honor roll student and a member of the National Honor Society.

Samantha is also active as a student aide, student ambassador and a member of the graduation committee. Samantha's number one passion is working with Children. She is planning to Attend Colby â€" Sawyer College in New London, New Hampshire.

Attending this special evening with Samantha were her mother Shirley and Tom Chaisson â€" Sam's roundtable advisor.

Rotarian Shawn Wright presents Ian Bouffard of Oak Hill High School with a $1000 scholarship.

Oak Hill High School senior Ian Bouffard was presented a $1000 scholarship award at our annual awards banquet on May 12 at the Ramada Inn in Lewiston.

Ian's four years at Oak Hill High School have been anything but boring. He carried a full course load and was active in Jazz Band, drama club and is a member of the National Honor Society.

In addition, Ian also has an extensive resume in community service through his membership in organizations such as Boy Scouts of America, Knights of Columbus and Future Leaders of America. Ian is planning to attend the University of Maine Orono, majoring in Electrical Engineering

Ian's parents Anita & Dan, brother Alex and Angela Roy â€" Business Teacher at Oak Hill High School attending the event in support of Ian.

Vice President Stephanie Gelinas presents Jesica Clark with our very first scholarship award to Lisbon High School.

Jessica Clark was presented a $1000 scholarship award at our annual awards banquet on May 12 at the Ramada Inn in Lewiston.

If there is one word that describes Jessica, it is "kids". Her community service includes volunteering at Big Brothers Big Sisters, at Lisbon Community School, and at Sandcastles Preschool as a sign language tutor. Her curriculum includes Parenthood, American Sign Language I & II and the Teaching Children Practicum at Lewiston Regional Technical Center.

And after school and volunteering, Jessica can be found working as a babysitter, a part-time nanny, as a child care provider at Vineyard Church, or a substitute preschool teacher.

Jessica was the class Secretary for 3 of her four years in high school and is planning to attend the University of Maine Orono.

Attending the event with Jessica were her parents Teresa & Matthew and one of Jessica's teachers Jill Denniston

Rotarian Claire Durgin presents a $1000 Scholarship to Lewiston High School's Michelle Caron.

Michelle Caron was presented a $1000 scholarship award at our annual awards banquet on May 12 at the Ramada Inn in Lewiston.

Michelle's community service includes volunteering with Big Brothers & Big Sisters, Special Olympics & Troop 160 Boy Scout CITO & Food & bottle drives. Michelle is also very active in school as a member of the National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society and the Spanish National Honor Society, and has enrolled in the Teaching Children Practicum at Lewiston Regional Technical Center; and oh by the way is ranked # 10 in her class.

Michelle's inspiration to help young children has been inspired by her brother who has spina bifida; and she will continue that focus as she plans to attend University of Maine at Farmington, where she will major in elementary education.

Attending the banquet with Michelle were her parents Luc and Denise.

Rotarian Peter Kowalski presents scholarship award to Leavitt Area High School's Travis Adams.


Travis Adams of Leavitt Area High School was chosen as his school's recipient of the Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club's College Scholarshp at our Awards Dinner and Banquet on May 12, at the Ramada Inn. Travis has been in the Scouts since first grade, completing his Eagle Scout project this past March.

His community service includes being a member of the Town of Leeds volunteer fire department; volunteering through the Boy Scouts on projects including gathering food for local food pantries and improving the trails at Monument Hill in Leeds. Travis was a member of the Leavitt track and nordic ski teams for 4 years as well as a 4-year member of the Latin Club.

Travis is the recipient of several awards including AP Scholar Award: DAR Good Citizen Award; Kennebec Valley Athletic Conference All-Academic cross-country team in 2009 and the Nordic ski team 2009 -2010 season.

Travis is planning to attend UNH, Durham, New Hampshire. Attending the eveniing event with Travis were his parents and brother.

Vocational & Foundation Chair and Event Organizer Bill Denehey presents scholarship to Emily Dumont of Edward Little High School.


Emily Dumont was presented a $1000 scholarship award at our annual awards banquet on May 12 at the Ramada Inn in Lewiston. Emily's community service includes volunteering at Big Brothers, Big Sisters, tutoring Somali immigrants and fundraising through Bowl for Kids Sake and as a Kiddie Night organizer.

Emily is also a Red Cross Blood Drive volunteer and an Auburn School committee student representative. In her spare time, you can find Emily babysitting, tutoring both elemntary and high school students or figure skaing.

Emily is also President of Edward Little's National Honor Society, and is a member of the French Club and the Early College for ME program; and has received the Williams college Book Award, Highest Honors Awards and a Girls State Representative.

Attending the banquet with Emily were her parents and Mike Dunn, her guidance counselor. Emily will be attending Stonehill College in Easton, Massachusetts in the fall.

Pictured left to right: Cathy Dionne, Maine Autism Society; Ray Lageux, Museum L/A; President John Belisle; Pauline Gudas, Book Reach; Kim Wettlaufer, Trinity Jubilee and Rachel Desgroseillier, Museum L/A


We had an excellent turnout for our Annual Awards Banquet on Wednesday, May 12, where we awarded seven $1000 scholarships to seven high school seniors from seven local high schools.

We also awarded several community awards to various community organizations. Accepting the community awards were Executive Kim Wettlaufer from Trinity Jubilee Center who was awarded $500 to help with cost of the food pantry where they serve aprroximately 294 families. Director of Programs Cathy Dionne accepted a $500 award on behalf of the Maine Autism Society. These funds will be used for our sensory-friendly movie event on June 19.

Ray Lageux, Board President, accepted a $1500 award for the Franco-American Heritage Center. The funds will be used for their Student Exchange Immersion Program where Maine and Canadian middle schoolers exchange places for a week and are complete immersed in each other's culture.

Director Rachel Desgroseillier accepted a $500 award for Museum L/A. These funds will be used toward the new Shoe Workers Exhibit. Cooridinator Pauline Gudas of the Book Reach Program also accepted a $500 award. This award will be used to buy new books used by volunteer readers who read to over 200 children from 18 months to 5 years old in 41 daycares in the Lewiston-Auburn area.

These are all worthy causes and the Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club is happy to partner with them to continue existing or starting new programs in our area.

These awards are the result of our fundraising efforts over the last year. Thank you to all Rotarians who have supported our efforts in earning these funds and thank you to all who attended this very special event.

Please click on link below to see some of the highlights of the weekend!

Our Rotary District 7790 held our annual conference the weekend of May 21-23 in Lewiston. We had a great turnout of local and international Rotarians. This was truly a spectacular weekend! Thank you to all who came out for the entire weekend or for one of the wonderful events.

We enjoyed a cajun Mardis-Gras meal at the Franco-American Heritage Center hosted by Paul and Rita Dube followed by entertainment upstairs in the concert hall. Rotarian Michel Kozlovsky of Cap-de-Madeleine Rotary Club in Canada treated us to his deft hands dancing over the concert piano. He graced us with several melodious arrangements.

We concluded the musical evening with the crowd-pleasing Girls of L-A who had the audience up on its feet and swaying, dancing and singing along to their upbeat music. The L-A Girls came back together for this very special encore performance. The L-A Girls are Bette Sanbourn, Bonnie Edwards, Debbie Morin, Kathy Haley, Jeannie Martin and Laurie Sidelinger.

After breakfast and morning sessions on Saturday, we welcomed our district's 25 high school Youth Exchange students who joined us for lunch and mingled with all the Rotarians. We also enjoyed a brief musical concert with two of the youths...Tobias from Austria on piano and a young lady from England on violin. Following lunch many of the group took advantage of local excursions hosted by our very own Rotarians. They had the option to hike at Thorn Crag with Adam Dow, take a walking tour of downtown including Sts Peter and Paul Basilica with Ed Plourde, take a tour of Museum L-A with Stephanie Gelinas, field shooting with Mac McPeake or golf with Phil Nadeau.

While the afternoon excursions were going on, the Youth Exchange students and their leaders set down to work painting a mural in a downtown Lewiston storefront. The mural was designed by one of the students Cara Forke who is hosted by the Quebec-East Rotary Club. When finished, the mural will hang on the store front of the former McCrory's.

We concluded our Saturday evening with the Governor's Gala in the Ballroom at the Ramada Inn. This event was certainly the highlight of the weekend! We had over 200 people in attendance including our Youth Exchange Students and the GSE Team from Reunion/Mauritius. We also had a delegation from France who came out in support of DG Sylvia Plourde. RI President John Kenney was represented by Robert Menconi and wife Cathy from Florida. Represented at the event were people from 5 of the 7 continents! Now that is impressive folks!

During the weekend, the Auburn-Lewiston Rotary club hosted the Hospitality Suite for late birds to come socialize, drink and enjoy munchies. Thank you to the Auburn-Lewiston Rotary Club for seeing to it that our guests had a good time.

Read more...

By Arnold R. Grahl
Rotary International News -- 21 April 2010


Mary Cohen, Kati Bryant, Patti Peterson & Bill Kimbler, of the Rotary Club of Duluth Superior Eco, help clear buckthorn at the Hartley Nature Center in Duluth, Minnesota, USA, in 2008. Photo courtesy of Kay Biga A growing number of Rotary clubs have found that focusing on the environment helps them bring in new members and gain visibility in the community.

The Rotary Club of Duluth Superior Eco , Minnesota, USA, was chartered in November 2008 with the purpose of attracting younger people by being project oriented and environmentally minded.

Club president Marti Buscaglia says the club founders reasoned that young people would be more likely to have time on their hands than disposable income, and would be more engaged if they could take part in hands-on projects for a cause they felt strongly about. The club now has 54 members, most under the age of 40, and mostly women.

"The eco brings them in, and then they learn more about Rotary," says Buscaglia. "It's a good introduction to Rotary for younger people. They know they are going to be involved in something they personally care about."

Please join us for our Annual Awards Banquet where we present scholarships to local high school seniors from seven area schools. Come listen to these students talk about the Service Above Self they have performed in their short life-time. We also give out community awards to local organizations. Please join us to see how our hard work throughout the year has enabled us to make these generous contributions!

This is a very special evening for the students, their families, guidance counselors and/or teachers, community members as well as the Rotarians who worked so diligently all year to raise the funds needed to provide these well-deserved scholarships. We award a $1000 scholarship to a high school senior who is going on to college from seven of our area high schools. These high schools are Lewiston High School, Edward Little High School, St. Dominic High School, Leavitt Area High School, Oak Hill High School, Poland Regional High School and for the first time Lisbon High School.

We will also be making award donations to several local organizations who are making a difference in our community.

The Awards Banquet is on Wednesday evening from 6-8pm at the Ramada Inn Ballroom in Lewiston. The cost of the meal is $10.00. Because of of this event, we will not have our regular luncheon meeting on Thursday, May 13.

PLEASE MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THIS VERY SPECIAL EVENING!

By Arnold R. Grahl
Rotary International News -- 16 April 2010

The Palais des congrès de Montréal will be the site of breakout sessions and the House of Friendship during the 2010 RI Convention. LinkedIn members are using social media to locate other Rotarians planning on attending the convention. Marc Cramer/Palais des congrès de Montréal


Worldwide, Rotarians are finding ways to use social media to build fellowship and get new ideas about running their clubs.

Some Rotarians have begun using Rotary International's official LinkedIn group to identify other Rotarians who are planning to attend the RI Convention in Montréal, Québec, Canada, 20-23 June.

Keith Tsukishima, a member of the Rotary Club of Richmond, B.C., will be going to his fifth RI Convention this year. Tsukishima recently asked other members of the LinkedIn group whether they would be attending, and more than 50 people responded.

"Rotarians communicating -- whether on social networking sites, or face to face, or at their meetings -- is like glue," Tsukishima says. "Sharing Rotary with others fosters more interest and promotes the diversity of this amazing organization."

He says he is looking forward to the convention as a chance to meet new friends and discover opportunities in Rotary. He is encouraged by the effectiveness of social media.

"Perhaps we are all trying to find more commonalities and want to belong to something meaningful," he says. "Meeting all these folks online puts faces and personalities into the picture. No longer are we just 1 of 1.2 million Rotarians. These are real people, with real ideas, real and sometimes different thoughts. These discussion groups cross age barriers, geographic barriers, gender barriers, and cultural barriers."

Dave Getz, a member of the Rotary Club of Mechanicsburg-North, Pennsylvania, USA, will be attending his second convention. He also went to the 2007 RI Convention in Salt Lake City, Utah.

"One thing I have enjoyed about Rotary is the opportunity to meet other Rotarians," he says. "Meeting those with whom I share something in common, whether it be the fellowship of musicians or a LinkedIn group or someone who shares my classification, enhances my Rotary experience."

Getz says the LinkedIn group has helped him this year in his role as club membership chair. He received valuable insights from group members on induction ceremonies, including one idea from a Ukrainian Rotarian. "We are hosting an exchange student from Ukraine this year, which made that especially meaningful," he says.

John Fortney, of the Rotary Club of Toronto, will be going to his seventh convention in eight years. He says more than 80 members of his club, as well as Rotaractors, are planning to attend. He is most looking forward to the fellowship, and he has some advice for fellow Rotarians on what to do: "If any of you are going to the province of Québec for the first time, treat yourselves to a side trip to Québec City. It is the only walled city in North America and is over 400 years old. You will swear you are in Europe."

The Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club once again sponsored a movie event, "Toy Story 3" in support of families whose children with autism live in the Lewiston/Auburn area. The movie, shown on Saturday, June 19, was closed to the general public and held at Auburn's Flagship Cinemas. The movie was shown without previews, with some of the lights on and the volume lowered so as to not overload the children's delicate senses. Each guest received a bag of popcorn and drink in addition to the admission ticket.

The movie was a big hit with parents and children alike. This was a wonderful event for the families and a rewarding experience for all who volunteered. Thank you to all who helped make this event a success! Thanks goes to President-Elect Jen Hogan and Chase; Rotarian Shawn Wright and Payton; Nancy Brown, Linda Chamberlain, Diane Chamberlain and Taylor; and Caitlin Durgin.

By Arnold R. Grahl Rotary International News -- 23 February 2010


From kicking a soccer ball in Cape Town, South Africa, to illuminating prominent landmarks with the End Polio Now message, Rotarians around the world are celebrating 23 February, the 105th anniversary of the first Rotary club meeting.

On this day in 1905, Paul Harris, Gustavus Loehr, Hiram Shorey, and Silvester Schiele met to talk about their personal and professional experiences. Harris then unfolded his general plan for a club. Out of this simple beginning sprang the world's first international service organization, which has now grown to include more than 1.2 million members in over 33,000 clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical areas.

Rotary International helped celebrate the milestone by spelling out End Polio Now on the side of RI World Headquarters in Evanston, Illinois, USA, and by joining districts 6440 and 6450 in plans to light up the Wrigley Building in downtown Chicago with the End Polio Now logo on the evening of 23 February. The Rotary Club of Chicago is celebrating its own 105th anniversary immediately after the lighting.

Other sites scheduled for illumination this week include the Pyramid of Khafre in Egypt; the Taipei Arena in Taiwan; the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain; the Old Port Captain's Office on the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, with world-famous Table Mountain as the backdrop; the Obelisk of Buenos Aires, Argentina; the Lake Marathon Dam overlooking the historic Marathon Memorial Battlefield in Greece; and the Royal Palace at Caserta in Italy.

In Cape Town, one of the host cities for the 2010 World Cup, a Kick Polio Out of Africa awareness campaign will launch with the symbolic kicking of a soccer ball signed by Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, who had polio as a child. The ball, which will be auctioned to the highest bidder, will then travel through 22 polio-affected countries en route to the RI Convention in MontrÃÆ'Æ'Æ'ÃÆ'‚©al, QuÃÆ'Æ'Æ'ÃÆ'‚©bec, Canada, in June.

In Puerto Rico, the House of Representatives has approved a measure setting aside the week of 23 February to be celebrated as "the week of the Rotary movement."


In addition, clubs have found a variety of creative ways to celebrate Rotary's birthday, also known as World Understanding and Peace Day:

**Members of Rotary clubs in Nepal will be taking part in a peace rally in Biratnagar.

**The Rotary Club of Scottsbluff/Gering, Nebraska, USA, is celebrating Rotary's 105th birthday by marking the 90th year since it received its club charter with a fundraiser to expand the local library.

**The Rotary Club of Canton, Georgia, USA, holds its weekly meeting on Tuesdays and will be celebrating with a large cake, complete with big 1, 0, and 5 candles. The club will also be donating $105 to PolioPlus.

**The Rotary Club of Tumkur City, Karnataka, India, has conducted a free dental checkup for children at a Red Cross school for the deaf and mute.

**The Rotary Club of Milledgeville, Georgia, USA, has invited Rotarians, families, veterans, and community members to a large Peace Day celebration at the peace monument at the county courthouse.


All 21 districts in Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland will be taking part in a Thanks for Life Week to raise funds for End Polio Now.

By Susie O. Ma
The Rotarian -- March 2010


Arch C. Klumph, father of The Rotary Foundation, meets with Boy Scouts in 1930


A longtime friend of Rotary -- the Boy Scouts of America -- marked its 100th birthday on 8 February.

The two organizations have worked together since their early days. Rotary founder Paul Harris, after meeting with Chief Scout Executive James E. West in 1910, urged Rotarians to assist in the expansion of the Scouts. By 1930, Rotarians had organized more than half of the then 500 Boy Scout councils, and today Rotary clubs sponsor 1,483 Scout units for 45,528 youth.

Rotary clubs have also contributed financially to Scout troops and helped construct Boy Scout camp buildings. Individual Rotarians have led the Scouts at local, district, and national levels.

"It makes good sense that Rotary would be involved in helping make the community a good place by starting out young," says Mike Birkholm, a member of the Rotary Club of Los Angeles and chair of the Inter-American Region of the International Fellowship of Scouting Rotarians, a network of 1,200 Rotarians who are also involved in Scouting. The fellowship counts RI President John Kenny and past presidents Wilf Wilkinson, Bill Boyd, and Cliff Dochterman among its members. "Scouting is a great way for Rotary to grow itself into the future."

Kenny said being a Boy Scout led him toward Rotary. "The Scout organization is a tremendous organization for young people," he said. "I've often been speaking at a Rotary club and have asked, 'Just put your hand up if you were a Scout.' And I found that at least half of the audience put their hands up."

In honor of the Boy Scouts of America centennial, Chief Scout Executive Bob Mazzuca will address the 2010 RI Convention in MontrÃÆ'Æ'Æ'ÃÆ'‚©al, Quebec, Canada. The Boy Scouts have taken part in RI conventions before. In 1934, Walter W. Head, president of the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America, presented Paul Harris with the Scouts' highest honor, the Silver Buffalo Award. At the 1984 convention, the World Organization of the Scout Movement received the Rotary Award for World Understanding and Peace.

"The values of Scout Law, the Scout Oath, and The Four-Way Test are very similar," notes Al Kugler, director of the Office of the Chief Scout Executive. The Scout Oath is a promise that Scouts make to, among other things, "help other people at all times."

The Boy Scouts of America is part of the worldwide Scouting movement that began in Great Britain in 1907. International Scouting has more than 28 million members in 160 countries. In the United States, 1.2 million adults volunteer with the Boy Scouts to serve 4.1 million youth every year.

The Scouts are celebrating their birthday throughout 2010 with programs, service projects, and a 100th anniversary National Scout Jamboree at Fort A.P. Hill, Virginia, in July.

Register for the 2010 RI Convention by 31 March for special pricing.

President John Belisle presents a plaque of appreciation to Gary Adams at his final Rotary meeting.


Gary Adams and wife Carole hosted the Valentine Luncheon for their last time. This is Gary's final meeting as a Rotarian. Gary welcomed the Rotarians from the Lewiston-Auburn Rotary Club and some visiting Rotarians from the Auburn-Lewiston Rotary Club. Carole Adams blessed us with the invocation. We were then serenaded by Nick Knowlton with It had to be You!

The wait staff then proceeded to serve us a scrumptious three-course meal to Putting on the Ritz! The singing and serenading continued with Nick Knowlton and Bette Sanborn while we enjoyed the courses presented to us.