It was a highly informative meeting today. There were twenty-two participants. Before the meeting began, we engaged in a discussion about the NFL playoffs (Please have sympathy for this Jets fan. We have not been in the playoffs in over 10 years!). At 12 noon, our President Sue Klock rang the bell to begin the meeting. Assistant District Governor Randi Saboski held up the flag and led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Dan Firestone then gave an inspiring invocation in both English and Hebrew, which he said people who are not like us are really like us and that our enemies can become our friends.Sue then led us in reciting the 4-Way Test:
Is it the truth?
Is it fair to all concerned?
Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
DISTRICT GOVERNOR
Marc Glass introduced our district governor, Joanne Alfieri. Joanne discussed several topics with us. First, Joanne talked about the Rotary Foundation. Its goal is to educate Rotarians about it. Many Rotarians do not know about the Rotary Foundation and what it does.
Next, Joanne talked about global grants and how they can be approved. She mentioned that many members do not know how to apply for a global grant. That will be discussed at the District Conference. Joanne mentioned a global grant that was approved. The funds will be used to build a water system in Haiti. At almost $500,000, it is the largest grant ever approved.
After that, Joanne talked about membership and how each Rotarian should bring in one new member. The motto is, “Each one brings one.” She added that we should encourage new members (and all members, for that matter) to be active in doing service projects.
On the topic of service projects, Joanne mentioned that on April 9, our district and District 7980 will do a service project together as part of Rotary Days of Service. The goal of the project is to impact the community and hopefully reach new members.
Finally, Joanne talked about how important diversity is in our Rotary Clubs. Our clubs should mirror our communities. She said that we should welcome new potential members and make people feel welcome at our clubs. The diversity of thought is valuing other people’s opinions.
Joanne also mentioned that there will be a Foundation Gala on February 23. The price of the Gala is $120, $100 of which will go as a donation to the Rotary Foundation.
If you wish to contact Joanne Alfieri, you can do so at dgalfieri2122@gmail.com
To hear Joanne Alfieri’s conversation and other information about today’s meeting, please go to https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/IhOrNyjl0RwpbFrcNylImHfzBB4sDcQcwWBAs7Pbhi7wK-rKHaNSVwzbqoIG7ggU.DECEqNTxKmbIKFPV Passcode: P+pIwFx5
CARING MOMENTS
We are saddened by the passing of the mother of former Rotarian Yvette Roming. We thank Marc for sharing her very uplifting obituary. We are also saddened by the news that Jack Sayre is temporarily in a wheelchair due to back problems. Get well soon, Jack!
ANNOUNCEMENTS
- If you are interested in doing an invocation, please let Sue know at suehklock@gmail.com
- The Board has approved the membership of Giovanni Mozzicato (Johnny Mo), who previously belonged to our club. If there are any objections, please call Sue at 860-989-0101 before January 26.
- There will be no in-person meetings in February. All meetings will be on Zoom. We hope to resume in-person meetings in March.
- Randi discussed two topics. First, she let us know that Alex Wisz is the President-elect and will be our President next year. Second, she said that Eileen Rau has sent out emails with information about grant webinars. There will be webinars on February 24 and March 22. Details can be found on the district website.
- Dierdre Stolte is still accepting donations for her project to provide feminine hygiene products to East Hartford students. You can drop off cash donations or products at her residence at 285 Long Hill Street, East Hartford, CT 06108. Please contact Dierdre in advance via email at blonderus33@aol.com or by cell phone at 860-830-4779. You can also donate online through CashApp, Venmo or PayPal. Underwear is also needed by students.
- We are looking for a secretary to replace Laura Floyd, who will vacate the position in June.
- Laura said that if we know of people in need of masks, please email her and let her know so she can have the masks dropped off or be picked up at the YMCA. She also mentioned she is applying for a grant to get more food for the East Hartford community.
ROTARY CONFERENCE
The Rotary District Conference will be held from April 29 to May 1 at the Southbridge Hotel and Convention Center in Southbridge, Massachusetts. This will be just for our district, and we will be celebrating our District’s 100th Anniversary. You can register by going to district’s website https://www.rotarydistrict7890.org On the right side of the homepage, look for upcoming events and click on District Conference. The registration fee is $175 per person until February 1. On February 2, the price will increase to $200 per person. Registration closes entirely on March 29. Hotel rooms must also be purchased by March 29 to obtain the special rate of $119/night. Hotel rooms at Southbridge Hotel must be purchased separately. Call 508-765-8000 and ask for Rotary District 7890 Room Block. There will be entertainment and meals served. If the conference is cancelled, you will get your money back.
DISTRICT GOVERNOR JOANNE ALFIERI’S WEEKLY MESSAGE REGARDING THE ROTARY FOUNDATION OF ROTARY INTERNATIONAL
WHAT MAKES A SUCCESSFUL GLOBAL GRANT APPLICATION?
Consult with local experts, including your District Foundation Chair and Grants Chair, early in the planning process to build a strong project plan and global grant application.
To be approved, your application must clearly describe how your project, scholarship, or vocational training team:
- Is sustainable – include plans for long-term success after the global grant funds have been spent
- Includes measurable goals
- Aligns with one of Rotary’s Seven Areas of Focus
- Responds to real community needs
- Actively involves Rotarians and community members
- Meets the eligibility requirements in the grant’s terms and conditions
The Rotary Foundation’s grant model empowers Rotarians to continue advancing world understanding, goodwill, and peace through the implementation of projects that improve health, support education, and help to alleviate poverty!
At 12:50, Sue rang the bell to end the meeting.
Enjoy the playoff games this weekend! One day, the Jets will win a Super Bowl. Not in my lifetime, but one day!
JASON PRIMUS