Salisbury Rotary Club was PROUD to be represented & visible at the Salisbury CT Memorial Day Parade.
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Fran Chapell
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Welcome to the Salisbury Rotary Club
Service Above Self
We meet Tuesdays at 12:00 PM
Geer Village
Geer Village
77 South Canaan Rd
Canaan, CT 06018
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Canaan, CT 06018
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It was a busy 5/29 luncheon meeting for the Salisbury Rotary Club as club members voted to approve revised By-laws for the Club and the Club’s Foundation, updated and proposed by SRC Past President, Lance Beizer. Club President Fran Chapell shared the Board’s proposed Slate of Officers for 2018-19 and Foundation President Lance Beizer shared nomination of a new president and a new Trustee. President Chapell then conducted the induction ceremony for two new members, Athena & Tolli Fliakos, with their sponsors at their sides, Pat Galloway & Rick DelPrete.
President Fran Chapell encouraged members to walk on Monday behind our SRC banner in the Salisbury Memorial Day Parade. Club Treasurer, Susan Dickinson, reported that the club’s annual Kentucky Derby Social to raise money for local scholarships and other “good works” grossed almost $13K and that the net should be known soon when final expenses are known. Members were urged to attend next Tuesday’s meeting to vote on revised By-Laws for the Club & Foundation.
Salisbury Rotary Club met 5/15 at Noble Horizons in Salisbury for its weekly luncheon meeting. A long-time key Noble Horizons’ Food Service staffer, and SRC Past President, Peter Fitting, introduced the luncheon speaker, Noble’s newly hired Administrator, Bill Pond. Bill shared a bit of his background and his very favorable impressions of Noble Horizons, the Town of Salisbury, and CT’s NW Corner communities. Past Club President and current SRC Foundation President, Lance Beizer, reviewed proposed changes to the Club’s and the Foundation’s By-laws, to be voted on at the May 29th meeting.
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This year’s Kentucky Derby Social, silent & live auctions co-sponsored with the Canaan Exchange Club, was a big success, raising lots of money for local scholarships and grants to local not-for-profit orgs! There were great donated auction items, great food, great hats & outfits, mint juleps, a muddy Derby track and lots of fun for all!
May 1st’s Salisbury Rotary Club luncheon meeting was a Business Meeting, chaired by President Fran Chapell. Among matters noted was the annual Kentucky Derby Social, scheduled for this Saturday, and co-sponsored by the Canaan Exchange Club. The yearly silent & live auctions typically raise some $12,000 for local scholarships and features great food, great auction items, mint juleps, lots of fun and live viewing of the Derby on a big screen. Prizes for best-dressed couple and best Derby hat. Doors open at 4:30PM; tickets $25/person. FMI and to purchase tickets:
www.kentuckyderbysocial.com
www.kentuckyderbysocial.com
Members of Salisbury Rotary Club learned about Noble Horizons’ annual Festival of Trees at its April 24 luncheon meeting. Two volunteers from the Noble Horizons Auxiliary, Meredith Dittmar and Wendy Anderson, showed slides and explained about this annual holiday event that has been raising money to benefit Noble residents for more than twenty years. This special event marks the start of the holiday season for the Noble Horizons residents and is open every day for two weeks. Admission is free. FMI:.jpg)
Former Salisbury Rotary Club member, Jim Britt, joined the Club’s weekly luncheon and provided an update on his time and efforts in Guatemala to help families in the Lake Atitilan region, especially related to areas of water, sanitation and education of the children. This month marks two years since he moved there to live. Past SRC President, Peter Fitting, chaired the meeting.
Several dozen came together at Geer Village on 4/3 for another combined dinner meeting of the Salisbury Rotary and Canaan Exchange Clubs. Exchange Club President Terry Dougherty chaired the gathering; Kevin O’Connell gave an update on the jointly-sponsored, fundraising auction, the annual Kentucky Derby Social (May 5) to raise money for local scholarships. Rotarian John Hedbavny introduced student volunteers (Kristine Gutierrez & Greg Winkelstern) of the Hugh O’Brian Youth Organization—HOBY—and its VP, Drew Granucci. Each explained how the organization functions to inspire and develop a global community of youth and volunteers to a life dedicated to leadership, service, and innovation. 
FMI: http://www.hoby.org/
Members of Salisbury Rotary Club enjoyed an informative presentation at their 3/27 luncheon given by three student members of FFA (Future Farmers of America) from Housatonic Valley Regional High School. Accompanied by their faculty advisor, Karen Davenport, they explained that the 140-member organization is an award winning group active in all phases of agriculture. It is a student-run organization that sets goals, makes plans, and implements events. FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education.
Close to 70 Rotarians & Exchange Club members and guests, including State Rep, Brian Ohler, attended a combined dinner meeting Salisbury Rotary Club and Canaan Exchange Club, held at Geer Village, on March 20th. In addition to hearing plans for the two clubs’ annual Kentucky Derby Day (May 5th) fundraiser for local scholarships, the featured speaker was Chris Tripler, co-founder of Great Falls Brewing Co., who shared information on Canaan’s new Depot Brewing & Restaurant, with a target opening sometime this summer. FMI: www.greatfallsbrews.com/
Owen Quinn, Executive Director of NWCT United Way, was the featured speaker at Salisbury Rotary Club’s 3/6 luncheon meeting. Moving in a new direction, he explained that the United Way is now focusing on funding programs more than general support for an agency and focusing on three areas: education, financial stability and health.
Salisbury Rotary Club members learned about two programs at Housatonic Regional HS from Nancy Hegy Martin at its February 20 weekly luncheon meeting. Nancy serves the Outreach Director for 21st Century Fund and as Director for the Mahoney-Hewat Science Tech Center. www.21stcenturyfund.net. She spoke also about the Learning Clinic, which is accredited by The New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). FMI: www.21stcenturyfund.net and www.neasc.org/about-
Club President Fran Chappel is shown presenting Nancy with an SRC mug and our brochure, given in appreciation to all of our speakers.
Past Club President Michele Kearns chaired the February 13 Salisbury Rotary Club luncheon. Member Roxanne Belter reported on marketing and promotion ideas being considered for the club’s big auction fundraiser, held annually on Kentucky Derby Day (May 5), and Speaker Mary O’Neil (HVRHS) presented her idea for a Professional Etiquette Luncheon for high school students in the Spring at a Rotary lunch meeting. The idea was well received by those present.
February 6 luncheon meeting of Salisbury Rotary Club was a Business Meeting, chaired by Club President Fran Chapell. Planning began for the annual Kentucky Derby Day (May 5) fundraising silent/live auctions to raise money for local scholarships and other “good works.” Membership Committee Co-Chair, Jerry Baldwin, proposed a new member to the Club. Digby Brown & Peter Fitting promoted the coming weekend’s 92nd annual ski jumps sponsored by SWSA (Salisbury Winter Sports Association).
www.jumpfest.org
www.jumpfest.org
Christian Allyn, recently elected Canaan Selectman and owner of Invasive Plant Solutions, returned to Salisbury Rotary Club as its January 30 luncheon speaker, this time sharing his knowledge about the Japanese knotweed that is prevalent in Sheffield, MA, and now appearing in northwestern CT. Plants have bamboo-like characteristics and range in height from about 5 feet to more than 20 feet. Efforts by our local towns are underway to eradicate them. The meeting was chaired by SRC past president, John Hedbavny.
Salisbury Rotary Club kicked off the new year with its annual “Yankee Swap” luncheon on January 9th with members bringing wrapped unwanted holiday gifts for blind exchange. Club member Randy Chappel presided over the proceedings. A fun time was had by all!
December 12 luncheon was a Business Meeting for Salisbury Rotary Club, conducted by President Fran Chapell. Details re services for long-time Rotarian and former Resident State Trooper Stan Szczesiul were shared (Thurs 4-6pm @ Kenny Funeral Home and Fri & 11:30am @ St. Mary’s). RSVP for next Tuesday’s annual holiday luncheon ASAP.
VP Pat Galloway (L) conducted the 12/5 meeting of Salisbury Rotary Club and read acknowledgement letters for SRC’s memorial contribution to the Millbrook (NY) Rotary Club’s for the Robert Gunther Music Scholarship. Robert was a SRC member also. New SRC member, Randy Chapell (R), shared his autobiography with the club. Welcome Randy!
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Salisbury Rotary Club had a presence at Geer’s Holiday Fair, selling $5 chances on its Lottery Scratch Tree to benefit the club’s Scholarships Fund for Region One. Close to $1500 has been raised so far; drawing is 12/5. Shown here is Club President Fran Chapell (r), Roxann Belter, John H Hedbavny, (l). Chances to benefit Canaan Childcare were sold also.
New Salisbury Rotary Club member Randy Chapell was inducted at the 11/28 luncheon meeting. The ceremony was conducted by past-President Jerry Baldwin (l) and Randy’s sponsor, Bill Spalding (r). Shown also is Club President (l) Fran Chapell. Randy’s classification is Aviation.
Salisbury Rotary Club raised $525 at Tuesday’s annual Food Auction luncheon. Members bring baked and bottled goods for all to bid on in order to raise money to add to the Club’s “good works” fund.. Past President Fred Spoor, shown here, served as Auctioneer.
The SALISBURY ROTARY CLUB had a good presence at the annual Salisbury Fall Festival, Saturday, October 7th, along with dozens of other organizations and businesses. Raffle tickets @ $5 supported the club's Scholarship program and gave the buyer a chance to win a tree (see photo) decorated with 40 lottery tickets! The tree will be available at several future events and the drawing for a winner will be held at the club's December 3 Business Meeting.
Close to 50 Salisbury Rotary Club & Canaan Exchange Club members met for another combined dinner meeting on Tuesday, October 3rd. United Way of NW CT was in the spotlight as Owen Quinn, executive director, Joyce Muse (2017 Campaign Chair) and Carla Dubois (staff) shared information and details of how United Way supports 24 partner organizations with funds raised from this year's "Give In Unity! Strengthen Your Community" campaign, with a $750K goal. Also at the podium (l to r): Exchange Club President Terry Dougherty; Geer CEO Kevin O'Connell, SRC President Fran Chapell. To donate, Text Superheroes @ 5053; FMI - www.northwestunitedway.org
September 26 found members of Salisbury's Rotary Club & the Canaan Exchange Club at Camp Sloane YMCA for an evening picnic/BBQ and a combined effort to pool resources to support a local food drive. SRC President is shown with Jean Chapin, Director of Canaan's Fishes & Loaves, unloading donated bags of food at Pilgrim House in CT.
The Salisbury Rotary Club & Canaan Exchange Club met together September 19th for a combined dinner meeting. Close to 50 members and guests heard a presentation by Dr. Mary O'Neill, Career Experience Coordinator at Housatonic Valley Regional High School. Noting that she is part-time in this newly established position, she explained how she works with the College Counseling Office to connect the students' classroom curriculum with real world and life experiences. The dinner meeting was hosted by Exchange Club President Terry Dougherty (L) and Rotary Club VP Pat Galloway (C) introduced the speaker (R).
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Lynn Nania of Canaan's Economic Development Committee was the Salisbury Rotary Club's 9/12 luncheon speaker. She shared information on the October Fest planned in Canaan for Saturday, October 14, and she encouraged the SRC to become involved with a booth or activity. Lively discussion followed with a number of ideas generated for future consideration and a decision.
Rotary's District 7890 hit one out of the park to End Polio Now at the New Britain Bees on Saturday August 26th. The crowd of 130 Rotarians, friends and family from our district attended the game, including Salisbury Rotary Club members (L to R), Rick DelPrete, Digby Brown, Randy Chapell, Duane Estes and Pat Galloway..
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The 9/5 meeting of the Salisbury Rotary Club was a Business Meeting devoted to responding to victims of Hurricane Harvey. Three options were identified:
- Rotary District 5930 has partnered with McAllen North Rotary Fund (a 501C-3) to set up an Emergency Relief Fund.
- Our Rotary Club can purchase a Shelter Box for $1,000, or make individual donations.
- Valerie Crane (860) 671-5345 spoke at ourmeeting on Tuesday, informing us that a truck would be leaving from North Canaan Elementary School on September 17th traveling to Houston to deliver cleaning items and more, to people in need. Items needed and drop-off info was shared.
Detailed information re all three options have been emailed to all SRC members by Club President, Fran Chapell.
Salisbury Rotary Club welcomed retired Salisbury Central School history teacher, Lou Bucceri, now the History Alliance Coordinator for Torrington, and Rebecca Tabor Conover, the CT State Coordinator for History Day, as its 8/22 luncheon speakers. In addition to explaining the program and their enthusiasm for working with the students participating in the annual History Day competition, SRC members were encouraged to serve as judges.
The Salisbury Rotary Club hosted its 2nd annual Scholarships & Good Works Reception Dinner on 8/15 at GEER Village. Lakeville Journal Publisher and former SRC member, Janet Manko, presented the 2017 Bob Estabrook Internship checks, sponsored by the Rotary Club, Ashlee Baldwin & Mari Cullerton. SRC initiated the program in 2014 to recognize long-time and committed SRC member, Bob Estabrook, who served also as Publisher of the Journal. $10,000 in scholarships were presented to ten local graduating Seniors by the club's Scholarships Committee Chair, Ann Beizer. Checks totaling an additional $10,000 were presented to eight local not-for-profit orgs by John Hedbavny, Chair of the Charitable Gifts Committee. Club President, Fran Chapell, presided over the festivities.
Salisbury Rotary Club's 8/8 luncheon speaker was Elaine LaBella, an Appalachian Trail Maintainer, CT Chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club. Her most interesting talk focused on the CT section of the AT, from the NY State line to the brook crossing at Sages Ravine. As someone who has hiked the complete trail, she shared great information on the entire 2174 mile trail from Maine to Georgia, passing through 14 states.
Salisbury Rotary Club's monthly Business Meeting, chaired by Club President Fran Chapell, included reminders to register for District 7890's 8/26 End Polio Now Night with the New Britain Bees @ New Britain Stadium, and to attend the Club's 8/15 "Good Works" recognition dinner for the club's scholarship recipients & their families and community organizations receiving financial grants from the club. John H Hedbavny, Chair of the club's Charitable Gifts Committee, announced the recipients of this year's Community Gifts. Scholarships & Community Gifts to be recognized total $20,000.
Pastor Savage Frieze of North Canaan Congregational Church spoke to the Salisbury Rotary Club July 25th about Pilgrim House, the church facility that houses Fishes & Loaves Food Pantry and serves as the focal point for many in the community needing food and meals provided. In describing the program, he noted the challenges of using outdated equipment, like the stove and oven, and the Area Health Department's imposed restrictions because of such factors. Club President Fran Chapell announced that she has applied for a District 7890 grant for the SRC to be able to help support Pilgrim House's community food programs.
District Governor David Mangs and Governor Nominee, Mark Brady, visited and spoke to the Salisbury Rotary Club on July 18th. DG Mangs shared RI's current theme for the year, "Rotary Making A Difference," and related it to membership, youth exchange, Interact, RYLA and the RI Foundation. He and Mark Brady, along with SRC President Fran Chapell, presented GEER Village food service staff member, Donna Steed, with a Profiles in Courage certificate in recognition of the many life challenges with which she has been faced and her years of serving the SRC's weekly luncheons.
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Leadership transition at the Salisbury Rotary Club's June 27 luncheon - outgoing President Michele Kearns reflected on her year leading the club and then conducted the installation ceremony for the new 2017-18 officers: President Fran Chapell, Vice President Pat Gallaway, Roxanne Belter, Secretary. Susan Dickinson will continue as Treasurer. Also present were new District Governor, David Mangs and District Governor Nominee, Mark Brady; both shared inspiring and motivational comments regarding Rotary and club leadership.
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Annual Fireworks - July 1, 2017 - Lime Rock Park - 60 White Hollow Road, Lakeville, CT 06039
Proceeds to benefit local scholarships, community gifts and international service projects.
Gates open at 6pm for picnicking - refreshment stands will also be open. Show starts 9pm/dark
$20 per vehicle (excluding buses) $ 5.00 for walk-ins
Sorry no pets allowed and no personal fireworks.
RAIN DATE: July 2, 2017
Rick Lawrence of the Manchester (CT) Rotary Club, joined by his wife, shared his commitment to and success raising money for clean water projects in the central highlands region of Guatemala.
Salisbury Rotary Club's 6/6 luncheon meeting was a Business Meeting. SRC Foundation Chair, Lance Beizer, presided over proposed changes to the Club's Foundation By-laws which were approved unanimously. Digby Brown shared publicity posters for the annual fireworks display at Lime Rock Park scheduled for Saturday, July 1st; rain date is Sunday, July 2nd.
Past SRC member, Jim Britt, was the club's 5/30 luncheon speaker. He shared slides and an update of his work in Guatemala's Lake Titilan Region in the country's western highlands. After 7+ summers volunteering there, Jim moved there f/t last summer and returns this week.
Shalyn Sheldon was the Salisbury Rotary Club's 5/23 luncheon speaker, representing the McCall Center for Behavioral Health's NW Corner prevention Network, co-funded project with the Foundation for Community Health and the NW Corner Fund of Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation. Their work focuses on substance abuse prevention and targets area youth, working closely with the Housatonic Youth Services Bureau. There were 917 CT opioid-related deaths last year, including in NW Corner towns. FMI Email: NCPNcoalition@gmail.com
Salisbury Rotary Club's 4/18 luncheon speaker was Ali Trotta, DVM. Dr. Trotta shared her interesting Veterinary Rehabilitation Aquatic Center practice in Sharon (CT), featuring an Oasis Underwater Treadmill. Her practice provides hydrotherapy, laser therapy, acupuncture and other treatments for dogs & cats with artritis, bone & joint surgeries, hip & elbow dysphasia and other conditions that would benefit from rehabilitation. She spoke as the guest of SRC member and Paul Harris Fellow, Jean Valette. FMI: www.vetrehabac.com
Salisbury Rotary Club's 4/11 speaker was Gwen Tibbals who spoke about Francesco Attesti's upcoming piano recital at The Fountains at Millbrook. A native of Italy, he is a Rotarian and Paul Harris Award recipient, he has raised $250,000 for Rotary Clubs around the world, including for Hurricane Katrina relief and to fight polio. Past SRC President Mona Staaf-Gunther presided at the luncheon and introduced the speaker.
Tuesday's 4/4 luncheon meeting was a Business Meeting for the Salisbury Rotary Club, conducted by Club President Michele Gorat. In addition to a discussion about our service area and the towns and communities served by the club, preparations for the May 6th big fundraiser, Run-for-the-Roses, were reviewed. FMI: www.runfortheroses.org
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Salisbury Rotary Club's luncheon speaker Tuesday, 3/28, was Justin Vagilano, newly appointed Executive Director of the Little Guild of Saint Francis animal rescue in Cornwall. He gave an update on the shelter, its activities and goals for the future, noting that its is to save unwanted, abused and neglected cats and dogs, provide medical care and enrichment to make them more adoptable and, through our pet adoption center, and match them with homes where they can thrive. FMI:
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Barbara Dughi, Executive Committee member of The Women & Girls Fund of the Community Foundation of NW CT, was the Salisbury Rotary Club's 3/21 luncheon speaker. She described the all volunteer non-profit organization, established in 1999 and permanently endowed, as helping other non-profits with grants supporting programs that provide opportunities for women & girls to develop marketing skills, enhance their economic self-sufficiency, build positive self esteem and promote personal growth. FMI: www.cfnwct.org/womenandgirls
Our club had a good presence at Sunday's Tri-State Chamber-sponsored Taste of Tri-State, with a good looking booth and serving chili.
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A fun annual event sponsored by Salisbury Rotary & Canaan Exchange Clubs, to benefit local scholarships and other community needs in CT's NW corner. Silent & Live auction items, mint juleps, great food & friends, and the Kentucky Derby on a huge screen. Sat, May 6, 4-7:30PM. FMI, to be a sponsor, & to buy tickets: www.runfortheroses.org
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Two new members were inducted and welcomed to the Salisbury Rotary Club at the 3/6 luncheon. Roxanne Belter @ left (Lime Rock Park) and Linda Robertson @ right (Founders Insurance) are shown with sponsors and Club President, Michele Gorat. Welcome ladies, to SRC!
The Hidden Treasure of Korean Art and Modern Korea was presented to our Club on 2/28/17 as part of the Korean Spirit and Culture Promotion Project. Once known as the Land of the Morning Calm, Korea now possesses the 10th to 12th largest economy in the world and is becoming more and more important in the world's economy, culture and politics. A documentary film about Korea was shown and homemade Korean deserts were provided.
Lance & Ann Beizer were recognized with the presentation of Paul Harris Society pins at the Salisbury Rotary Club's February 21st luncheon meeting for their generous, ongoing support of the Rotary Foundation. Club President Michele Gorat also updated members of two events: our club will have a booth at the Chamber's upcoming Taste of Tri-State, March 19th; and plans are underway for the club's annual Run-for-the-Roses Silent & Live Auction fundraiser, May 6, on Kentucky Derby Day.
Inge Dunham, long-time Salisbury Rotary Club member and Past Club President, shared the story of Hospital Albert Schweitzer in Haiti, founded in 1956 and supported by our club since the 1990s. Inspired by the work of Dr. Albert Schweitzer, Dr. Larry Mellon & his wife, Gwen, left AZ to establish a hospital in Haiti to provide compassionate, lifesaving healthcare to patients among the most vulnerable in the world. The hospital has grown from 80 to 130 beds and is now renowned around the world as a highly effective health care facility most recently serving Haiti's earthquake & hurricane victims, in addition to meeting Haiti's many public health challenges. Inge first visited HAS 1986, has been several times since, and has been a tireless advocate and supporter for our club's continued financial assistance. FMI: www.hashaiti.org
Thank you to SRC Past President, Laura Flores, for bringing Deborah Van Steenbergen as our January 31 luncheon speaker to share her inspiring "Quilts That Care" story with us. Since she initiated QTC in 2012, the not-for-profit org has created 1400 quilts, made by 60 volunteers, to provide comfort & hope to individuals throughout CT who are undergoing cancer treatment. QTC accomplishes this with 95% of the materials donated. Club member Laura is a QTC volunteer and produces one hand-crafted quilt per month! FMI re this inspiring program: www.quiltsthatcare.org
Denise Cohen was inducted as a new member of the Salisbury Rotary Club at its January 10th, 2017 luncheon meeting. Denise is a mortgage maker with EverBank and very involved with the Falls Village Children's Theatre and several other local not-for-profit orgs as a volunteer. Denise is shown here being inducted by Past President Kevin O'Connell and standing with her sponsor, Jerry Baldwin. Welcome Denise!
Great fun was had by all who attended our annual Holiday Grab-Bag luncheon on January 10th when unwanted Holiday gifts are exchanged in "Yankee Swap" fashion. Club member and Swap Master Peter Fitting shown here with Fran Chappel, along with Bill Spalding and Lance Beizer opening their exchanges!
The Salisbury Rotary Club's annual Food Auction was held at Tuesday's 11/22 luncheon meeting. This year, monies raised will go to benefit the Albert Schweitzer Memorial Hospital in Haiti to support relief efforts in the aftermath of hurricane Matthew. $1300.00 was raised and will be added to the month's Happy Fines. The club plans to match up to $500 and hopes to send a total of $1000. Club President Michele Gorat assisted member and auctioneer, Bill Spalding.
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Visiting Rotarians were the Salisbury Rotary Club's 11/15 luncheon speakers, sharing their experiences and support helping to rebuild lives and communities in Nepal following lady year's devastating earthquake. Alma Kruh on left (Simsburry-Granby Rotary) and Barbara Spiegel on right (Torrington-Winsted Rotary) told interesting and inspiring stories, along with a video and slides. Thorn Weldon (bottom left), a friend of Alma's from Salisbury, was a guest. FMI - http://www.ahelpinghand.org/
The Salisbury Rotary Club again sponsored its free Election Day Breakfast gathering at the Congregational Church across the street from Town Hall, designed to bring community members together after voting. Donations to a free will offering will go to Albert Schweitzer Hospital in Haiti to support victims of the most recent devastating hurricane.
The Tuesday, 10/18, lunch program of the Salisbury Rotary Club featured Deanna Marcus of Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue Equine Sanctuary (Dover, NY). This non-profit organization, staffed completely by volunteers and funded completely by donations, is dedicated to providing a safe haven for unwanted, abused, neglected horses and to unite humans and horses in a safe environment to rehabilitate the horses while using their stories and struggles to foster understanding & inspiration in children, young adults and the community. FMI: LuckyOrphansHorseRescue.org Also speaking to the club was Rob Belden (New Milford Rotary Club), the Assistant Governor for Area 8 of which SRC is a member. Rob distributed copies of the current Directory for Rotary District 7890 and highlighted its content.
Salisbury Rotary Club's Business Meeting, chaired by Club President Michele Gorat, also included a presentation by club member, Skip Barber, explaining the current legal issues facing Lime Rock Park. He shared a letter that will appear in this week's Lakeville Journal, outlining that LRP is not looking to expand its operation by two Sundays, but two Sunday afternoons and only wants to rearrange currently permitted hours in order to retain its two major professional events. More detail can be found in this Thursday's 10-13-16 issue of the Lakeville Journal
The Salisbury Rotary Club was among the many organizations & businesses with a presence at Salisbury's annual Fall Festival weekend. A beautiful day with the town filled with folks and families.
Teacher and author, Peter Vermilyea, was the featured speaker at the October 4th combined dinner meeting of the Salisbury Rotary Club and the Canaan Exchange Club. He spoke on his latest book, "Wicked Litchfield County," highlighting stories of counterfeiting and murders, along with the "prevailing justice of the times," during the late 1700s and into the 1800s.
Our State Representative (64th District), Roberta Willis, spoke to the Salisbury Rotary Club about her 16 years in the CT Legislature, highlighting two projects with which she has been involved throughout her tenure: replacing the outdated courthouse in Litchfield Co. and maintaining Sharon Hospital as a viable and effectively administered full-service hospital. She was introduced by SRC member and her husband, Bill Willis. Roberta will retire in January.
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9/20/16 Salisbury Rotary & Exchange Club picnic at Camp Sloane YMCA (Lakeville, CT)
At Tuesday's luncheon,Salisbury Rotary Club heard first from Jack Bowman, the Salisbury Congregational Church's new Minister of Music and Organist since March 2015. He spoke briefly about a program this Sunday, the first in a series entitled "Peace Through Understanding." This one--Mozart å la Türk, Welcoming Our Muslim Friends--will feature 100 musicians, including the Salisbury Sinfonietta, Turkish musicians, and the Western CT State University Opera Soloists & Chorus. The Rev. Eileen Epperson was the scheduled speaker and spoke on her
pursuit of a Doctor of Ministry degree at Hartford Seminary. An interfaith graduate school, she talked about the unusual curriculum and the international students, especially the Muslims, from whom she is learning so much.
pursuit of a Doctor of Ministry degree at Hartford Seminary. An interfaith graduate school, she talked about the unusual curriculum and the international students, especially the Muslims, from whom she is learning so much.
The Equss Effect - horse therapy for our Veterans:
Beginning in 2009, in learning about the rising suicide rate among veterans, Jane Strong and David Sanatore decided to focus their attention on this group of men and women who were sometimes resistant to talk therapy and whose symptoms were often only masked by medication. They based their program on what they had learned at Eponaquest Program. General Patraeus (Ret.) recognized this program for its soundness and sensitivity to these men and women who have served their country in this way. A very interesting presentation on horse therapy for our deserving veterans. Jane Strong was the Salisbury Rotary Club's 8/30 luncheon speaker. FMI - http://theequuseffect.org/
Beginning in 2009, in learning about the rising suicide rate among veterans, Jane Strong and David Sanatore decided to focus their attention on this group of men and women who were sometimes resistant to talk therapy and whose symptoms were often only masked by medication. They based their program on what they had learned at Eponaquest Program. General Patraeus (Ret.) recognized this program for its soundness and sensitivity to these men and women who have served their country in this way. A very interesting presentation on horse therapy for our deserving veterans. Jane Strong was the Salisbury Rotary Club's 8/30 luncheon speaker. FMI - http://theequuseffect.org/
Former Salisbury Rotary Club member and Paul Harris Fellow, Michael Loftus, visited us Tuesday as our speaker, sharing info of his current club and its programs in Dunedin, FL. Shown here with SRC members Sue Dickinson (l) and Mona Staaf-Gunther (r).
VP Fran Chappel conducted the 8/3 Salisbury Rotary Club's Business Meeting. Members were reminded there would be no luncheon meeting on 8/16; instead it will be a dinner meeting to recognize the student recipients (and their parents) of the Club's recent awarding of $10,000 in scholarship money and the local not-for-profit organizations awarded $8000 from the Club's Community Gifts fund, and checks will be presented.
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Noting that Litchfield Co. is 52% forested, Sean Grace, Executive Director of Sharon Audubon Center, went on to educate & inform those attending the 7/26 Salisbury Rotary Club luncheon meeting about the habitats & plants needed for local birds of our area and .what native plants should be in our backyard to attract more birds! The migratory patterns of certain birds attracted to out region were discussed also. To learn about state-owned and privately held lands helping safeguard critical habitat and jeopardized birds, and more about Sharon Audubon: sharon.audubon.org. Club President Michele Gorat is shown thanking the speaker with a SRC mug.
Pat Gallaway, retired from Atlas One Financial Group-MD and Joel Ralph , is a Senior Mortgage Loan Officer working for Washington Trust Mortgage were inducted into the Salisbury Rotary Club as new members at the 7/12 luncheon meeting. Inducted by Past President Jerry Baldwin, far right, Joel & Pat (center right/left, all are shown below with Club President Michele Gorat, far left. Welcome to the club Pat and Joel!
Ella Hampson, 16, addressed the Salisbury Rotary Club today about her summer experience in Peru several classmates, staying with a Peruvian host family and working on improving access to clean water, learning about local customs, community service work, installing water pipes, and touring Machu Picchu. The trip was sponsored by Rustic Pathways, the leader in providing superior quality international community service, education, and adventure programs for students around the world.
Meet the Salisbury Rotary Club's new President, Michele Gorat. Michele is executive director of the Salisbury Visiting Nurse Association. Michele joined SVNA in 2009 as the agency’s controller and quickly moved on to become the finance director. In the spring of 2013 Michele assumed the role of SVNA's executive director and has over 20 years of experience working in healthcare. Prior to joining SVNA, she worked at Sharon Hospital for 13 years in various roles, including director of patient financial services and revenue cycle coordinator. She has been a Rotarian for several years, serving as the Club's secretary and on its Board of Directors.
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Thank you to all those who attended the Salisbury Rotary Club (SRC) Annual Fireworks on Saturday July 2nd.
The fireworks show was delayed significantly. Here is what happened...
As darkness fell, events were proceeding as planned. Legion Fireworks, the pyrotechnic company hired by SRC for the past several years, was in place and ready to go when
electrical problems with the automated firing mechanism first surfaced. These problems were expected to be rectified within minutes, but persisted despite repeated “fixes.”
Overriding the electronics and firing the explosives manually was discussed, but safety and other issues intervened. Ultimately, Legion Fireworks reluctantly decided to fire them manually, and SRC made the decision to proceed. A full fireworks display went off successfully, albeit later than usual. Regretfully, a fairly significant percentage of what was a huge crowd had already left.
The Salisbury Rotary Club, Lime Rock Park and Legion Fireworks all extend their sincerest apologies to our community. The annual fireworks display is SRC's largest fundraiser, proceeds go to local scholarships, community gifts and other projects. If you wish to have a full refund, please send a S.A.S.E. to Salisbury Rotary Club P.O. Box 287 Salisbury CT 06068 Attn: Refund
Thank you and have a happy and safe summer!
Respectfully,
Digby Brown, Salisbury Rotary Club, Fireworks Chair
Frank Coluccio, Legion Fireworks
Skip Barber, Lime Rock Park
Outgoing club president Kevin O'Connell offered reflections of his term and the Rotary year just concluded and welcomed in-coming president Michele Gorat. She commented on her aspirations and goals for the coming year and then presented her predecessor with the traditional plaque of appreciation. Well done President Kevin; congratulations and welcome President Michele!
As the 6/21 luncheon speaker, Dr. Evan Rashkoff, Board certified orthopedic surgeon with New Milford Orthopedic Associates and with 2000+ knee replacement surgeries to his credit, gave an informative overview of osteoarthritis and treatment options, including knee replacement surgery.
Club President Kevin O'Connell recognized members Lance & Ann Beizer as members of the Paul Harris Society for their outstanding support of the RI Foundation. Following that, Mona Staaf-Gunther announced John Hedbavny as the club's newest Paul Harris Fellow, recognized for service and contributions "above & beyond" to the club and community. Shown here (center) with other club Paul Harris Fellows.
Incoming Club President Michele Gorat (left) conducted the 6/7 Business Meeting. Among that which was covered, Scholarship Committee Chair, Ann Beizer (right), announced that decisions were made to award $10,000 in local scholarships to Housatonic Valley Regional HS seniors that will be presented to them at next week's Region 1 awards program.
Tina Hogan NW CT's Regional Coordinator for the Alzheimer's Association was the 5/31 luncheon speaker at the Salisbury Rotary Club. The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care, support and research and she shared lots of information and statistics about the disease, along with a very informative 1-minute video: https://m.youtube.com/watch?
FMI: www.alz.org/ct/ for the CT Chapter.
Salisbury Rotary Club had a presence in Salisbury CT's annual Memorial Day Parade. Club President Kevin O'Connell (r), and past Presidents Digby Brown (c) and John Hedbavny (l) carried the banner.
President Kevin O'Connell introduced and then interviewed our 5/24 speaker, 20-year old Juan Morales, an amazing young man born with cerebral palsy, who has lived through more struggles than most people twice his age. Born in Puerto Rico he moved to the US when 8 years old and lived for about 10 years before moving to CT. A high school graduate who wants to attend college and eventually work for Apple, Juan currently works at GEER and "commutes" daily 20 minutes in his motorized wheelchair. His need now and goal is to obtain an adapted vehicle so he can independently drive to work and begin his life as a young adult. The Bureau of Rehabilitation Services will assist with modifications to a vehicle so Juan can drive from his wheelchair. In addition, Juan has a Go Fund Me Site:
https://www.gofundme.com/juanmoraleswheels
Dan Bolognani, executive director of the Upper Housatonic Valley National Heritage Area, returned to the Salisbury Rotary Club to provide updates and progress since he last spoke to the club. Of particular note was the completion of three scenic bicycling routes: Housatonic Bridge Trail, Kent Bike Routes and Salisbury-Sharon Bike Routes. He shared also information about the new Western New England Greenway, a bicycling route from Long Island Sound to Montréal Québec, done in partnership with the Champlain Valley National Heritage Area. All are federally funded and in conjunction with the National Parks Service. FMI: www.HouBikeWalk.org
Tracy Hayhurst, Director of Communuty Outreach at Plantin Seeds Farm in North Canaan, gave the Salisbury Rotary Club a wonderful overview of what her organization does to promote healthy farm food. Combining food and education is key to getting people interested in using local farm fresh foods. FMI: www.ruralintelligence.com/
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The Salisbury Totary Club heard Don Mayland Tuesday share his extensive knowledge of area Lakes, their great value, their surprises, and current challenges. Our local Lakes face a serious threat from invasive plants such as Milfoil weed (sp?) and the various pests such as hydra, Zebra mussels and snails. Don explained that budget cuts are also a huge challenge since local towns spend over $80,000 per year to maintain the lakes.
Salisbury Rotary Club's 4/19 program featured Jeanne Fusco, who has been with the Susan B. Anthony Project for 22 years and became its Executive last June. The organization promotes safety, healing and growth for all survivors of domestic and sexual abuse and advocates for the autonomy of women and the end of interpersonal violence. In the past year, it has served more than 2,000 women, men and children and 350 of those have been sexual assault survivors. I addition, 7,000 students in grades pre-K through 12 have received prevention education programs focusing on safe touch, bullying and conflict resolution and health relationships, to name just a few of the programs. Club member Mona Staaf-Gunther (upper left), introduced her and is responsible for securing each week's luncheon speaker.
Our April 12th speaker, Juan Reanda from Guatemala, spoke about the "Off the Grid Digital Classroom" known as RACHEL--Remote Area Community Hotspot for Education & Learning. Using a raspberry pi server, it is considered the most innovative technology solution for delivering free educational resources to developing communities. Club member, Jim Britt, introduced Juan and announced that he plans to move to Guatemala in May to continue his efforts, now full-time, in the Lake Atitlán region in the Guatemalan Highlands of the Sierra Madre mountain range, where he has spent the last six Summer's as a volunteer.
There was a great turnout at the Canaan Country Club for the April 5th Open House, co-sponsored by the Salisbury Rotary Club & the Canaan Exchange Club, as members from both clubs attended, brought guests, and enjoyed socializing g and Happy Hour hors d'oeuvres & refreshments. Those present also heard about the upcoming annual Run-4-the-Roses Silent & Live Auction, Saturday, May 7th--Kentucky Derby Day! The two service clubs raise money for local scholarships and other "good works" at the event, held at GEER Village, which features great food, mint juleps, good times and a big screen to watch the Derby! FMI call 860/362-5095 or email info@canaanexchange.com
Paul DePaulo, former SRC member and currently Technology Librarian at Hotchkiss School, along with Kitty Hickcox, Coordinator of Maker Space and a teacher at Indian Mountain School, were our 3/29 luncheon speakers. They spoke about the April 10 Tri-State Mini Maker Faire to be held at IMS, 10AM-4PM. The Faire will provide those who attend with a forum for creativity & conversation and will feature science, technology, art and design and is open to the public at no cost. Displays & activities will challenge and delight all ages. FMI: www.tristatemakerfaire.com
Jürgen Kalwa, an author, print, radio & video journalist and foreign correspondent for Germany's NPR equivalent, returned to our club as the 3/22 luncheon speaker, this time speaking about a recent trip with his wife to the country of Bhutan. He spoke about and shared a most interesting 9-minute video on one of the world's smallest countries, tucked away in the Himalayan mountains, and bordered by Nepal and India. Club VP Michele Gorat chaired the meeting.
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A taste of the Salisbury Rotary Club was present at Sunday's "Taste of the Tri-State" event sponsored by the Tri-State Chamber of Commerce at the Hotchkiss School. The SRC was among dozens of vendors, area eateries and community organizations in attendance with displays. Shown here are club members Kim Downey, Mona Staaf-Gunther, Michele Gorat and John Hedbavny.
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The March 15 luncheon meeting had Stadium Systems manager Wendy Eichmann displaying possibilities for new SRC garb for members, hats, shirts, etc. with our Salisbury Rotary logo embroidered.
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Following her was the feature presentation about SOAR, by board president Keith Marks and program director, Weezie Fallon. SOAR (Seek, Originate, Aim, Reach), was founded and funded 15-years ago as a local not-for-profit by Zenas Block and his family to provide after school enrichment programs for Salisbury Central School students. There are currently 14 after-school programs being offered.
FMI: www.soarenrichment.org
At the club's 3/8 luncheon meeting, Birgitt Parajola spoke about, and showed photos from, her 18-day trip to Iran in April 2015. A career-long professional travel agent, her insightful comments focused on the people, the culture, the economy and the infrastructure, noting she found that the people were most appreciative of tourists' interest in their country. She emphasized that the people are not terrorists and that she and her group experienced no interference from the government.
Club President Kevin O'Connell conducted the Club's March 1st monthly Business Meeting. In addition to Secretary's and Treasurer's reports, plans are underway for an April Open House to foster more awareness of SRC in our communities, promote interest in new potential members, and publicize our annual Run-4-the-Roses silent/live auction-fundraiser on Kentucky Derby Day, May 7th.
Nancy Hege-Martin directs the 21st Century Fund for Region One's Housatonic Valley Regional HS and was the speaker at the club's 2/23 luncheon. Grants are awarded as the result of fund raising to provide the high school students, clubs and organizations, with financial support not provided for by the school's annual budget. FMI: 21stcenturyfund.net
Club VP Michele Gorat conducted the 2/16 luncheon meeting and club member Jim Britt gave a most interesting presentation on "connecting" without the Internet based on solar power charging a device known as Rachel Pi. Members participated on their own devices and questions and discussion centered on the application in remote areas without Internet access.
Today's luncheon speaker, Mike Mangini, Director of Outpatient Therapy at Geer Nursing &Rehab Center, spoke about the services offered by his department and, more specifically, about Trigger Point Dry Needling. This is a treatment technique that utilizes thin, solid filament needles to deactivate & desensitize trigger points in muscles and has very different aims that distinguishes it from acupuncture.
Club President Kevin O'Connell (R) conducted yesterday's monthly Business Meeting, noting that a busy few months are ahead for the SRC with another "Open House" for prospective members being planned, our presence at the Tri-State Chamber's "Taste of Tri-State" on March 20, and the club's annual "Run-4-the-Roses" silent & live auction on Kentucky Derby Saturday in May. Long-time member Peter Fitting (L) does an admirable job weekly collecting Happy Fines & "unhappy" fines from members!
Josh Ginsburg, executive director of Millbrook NY's Cary Institute, returned to the SRC for an encore presentation on what he called "a most remarkable quality institution." Founded in 1983, the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies is one of the world’s leading independent environmental research organizations, focusing on disease ecology, forest and freshwater health, climate change, urban ecology, and invasive species. He spoke specifically on being awarded a recent 5M grant to control the tick related to Lyme Disease.
Author John Dipple spoke at the January 18 luncheon about the climate crisis of 1816 - the year with no summer - and shared his thoughts and research on current climate change.
Tuesday, January 12th, 2016 the Salisbury Rotary Club had their Annual Grab Bag Gift Exchange. This is a fun way to exchange gifts received over the holidays that you don't necessary want. We had 16 members exchange gifts.
At today's Business Meeting, Club President Kevin O'Connell conducted the induction ceremony for new member, John Bate, of National Iron Bank (Lakeville). Welcome John!
60+ attended and enjoyed the Salisbury Rotary Club's annual Holiday Luncheon yesterday, with musical entertainment by four members of the HousaTonics.
Mary Close Oppenheimer was the Salisbury Rotary Club's 12/8 speaker. She spoke on affordable housing concerns and challenges in CT's NW Corner and her efforts to raise awareness and seek solutions.
Club President, Kevin O'Connor, used the 12/1 Business Meeting to inform members of the club's online presence and progress via Clubrunner, Facebook, RI & District pages, highlighting our club's goals, activities and achievements.
The Salisbury Rotary Club's annual Food Auction netted $1365 to add to the club's "good works" fund and members also responded most generously by donating dozens of shopping bags filled with non-perishable food items for the local food pantry. Happy Thanksgiving to all!
With November being Rotary Foundation month and RI's campaign to "End Polio Now," club member Inge Dunham served as our 11/17 speaker and read a chapter from Atal Gawande's book, Better, detailing his campaign in India to end polio. The chapter, "The Mop-up," references RI's successes and the renowned American surgeon and Harvard health professor's efforts. To donate to Rotary's End Polio Now go to rotary.org
Willie Hallihan, long-time volunteer with SWSA--Salisbury Winter Sports Association--spoke to our club at the November 10th luncheon meeting. He shared the 90-year history of the Salisbury Ski Jumps that hosts the Eastern Olympic Ski Jumping Championships and year-round SWSA activities that ensure the continuation of the annual weekend events. The 2016 Ski Jumps will be February 14-16.
Member Laura Flores presents and explains the opportunity for our club to support Lakeville's Corner Food Pantry and its efforts to assist individuals & families in need throughout the Tri-State area. Shopping bags with a printed list of "most needed items" were distributed for members to fill and return by the Tuesday of Thanksgiving week. The Corner Food Pantry provides ingredients monthly for some 10,000 meals!
The Salisbury Rotary Club was recognized at the District 7890 Rotary Foundation Dinner and presented with a certificate of appreciation for its financial support of the 2014-15 "End Polio Now" campaign. Current club President Kevin O'Connell attended with his wife, Karen, and Immediate Past President, John Hedbavny. The dinner was held at Chez Josef in Agawam, MA.
50+ members and guests came together last evening and enjoyed our first Open House to inform all about the history of "good works" done by the Salisbury Rotary Club, locally and globally, over the last 65 years. The event was held at the Black Rabbit Bar & Grille in Lakeville.
Our District Governor, Kyong Wilson, visited the Salisbury Rotary Club today. She spoke to us from her heart, not from the podium, about why we belong to Rotary and why we stay in Rotary, and what it has meant to her during her forty years in the US. Shown here with Club President, Kevin O'Connell.
Member Inge Dunham introduces Hunter Nelson, our luncheon speaker October 13th. Hunter spoke to our club in April explaining her hopes to do an internship for college in Costa Rica this past summer but not able to afford it. Our club donated money and our members contributed money and today she shared slides and her experiences with the club. Hunter is former INTERACT club president when Inge was our club's advisor.
Owen Quinn, executive director of United Way of Northwest Connecticut spoke to our club, explaining the support given to 26 community agencies, serving 58,500 residents whose unmet needs include children at risk, families with mental health issues, substance abuse, and other everyday basic needs. The 2015 Annual Fund Drive ends soon; for more info and to donate - www.northwestunitedway.org
The club's annual picnic returned to Camp Sloane YMCA with a good turnout of members and guests. Thanks to Paul "Bear" Bryant for providing the burgers, dogs, salads and fixings, Club President Kevin O'Connell for the wine, and Peter Fitting for the toss salad and the musical entertainment provided by Mr.and Mrs. Ken Sills.
Pictured above L-R,Members- John Parsons and Paul "Bear" Bryant
Pictured above L-R,Members- John Parsons and Paul "Bear" BryantJürgen Kalwa, gave a most interesting talk on what brought Lance Armstrong down and the "network of enablers" - individuals & corporations and sponsors - that allowed Armstrong's doping and deceit to continue as long as it did. A print, radio & video journalist and foreign correspondent for Germany's NPR equivalent, our speaker has authored several books and lives in Sharon (CT). Shown here with club president, Kevin O'Connell.
Today's program speaker: Club member Jim Britt presented slides and spoke of his summer experience volunteering in Guatemala with families in the Lake Atitilan region for the seventh summer.
1st VP Michele Gorat conducted the September 1st Club Assembly (aka Business Meeting) in the absence of Club President Kevin O'Connell. Announcements included: Community Involvement/Fund Raising Committee will meet on October 6, the Club Foundation Board meets next on October 13, and that the SRC now has a page on Facebook. Also noted was that $500 has been donated by the Club to the NW United Way for NW CT Childcare Collaborative to assist students in Region 1 schools who need but cannot afford school supplies, i.e. backpacks, notebooks, etc. 
John Bates was the guest speaker at our August 25th luncheon. A 2004 HVRHS graduate, he worked as a teller at National Iron Bank's Lakeville Branch before leaving the area to go back to school. He has returned, is now the bank's Sales Representative, and spoke of his love for the area and desire to get involved in the community.
Fran Chapell and her employees from the Canaan Day Care joined us for lunch as potential new members.
Fran Chapell,member, addressed the Salisbury Rotary Club Tuesday, 8/18/15. We all know Fran and the wonderful work she does through the Canaan Child Care Center. Today though, Fran spoke about herself, her family and the experiences in life that have shaped her into the Rotarian she is today. Frances Claire Bridget Mahar Chapell, yes that is her full name, moved to salisbury to raise her family and has been involved with educating young children ever since. She is a Teacher, a Counselor, a Business Woman, Community Leader, Mom and Nana. Fran spends a considerable amount of time coordinating the efforts of the Northwest Child Care Collaborative. The coordinated effort of 10 different child care centers, the Centers raise funds to supply young school age children with all of the needed supplies for going back to school. From clothing to pencils this group strives to meet the basic needs of every child going back to school. Check out the link below to the United Way. The United Way helps support the efforts of Fran and the Child Care Collaboration through small grants. Please join the Salisbury Rotary Club in donating to this worthy cause. Also join us in thanking Fran for all of her hard work on helping kids and families in Canaan and the surrounding communities. Fran truly lives up to the Rotary standard or "Service Before Self"!
Club member Janet Manko, and current Publisher & Editor in Chief of the Lakeville Journal, introduced Sam Bradway, the first Bob Estabrook-Lakeville Journal Internship, sponsored by our Salisbury Rotary Club. Bob Estabrook, former Lakeville Journal Publisher & Editor-in-Chief, SRC member and past-President, upper right.
Our July 20th luncheon speaker was Hanna Charry, Community Manager & Special Events Coordinator for the American Cancer Society. In addition to sharing research and progress regarding breast cancer for women, she spoke about the upcoming 5K "Making Strides Walk" fundraiser Sunday, October 4, at the White Memorial Conservation Center in Litchfield. For more info:
makingstrideswalk.org
makingstrideswalk.org
Managing Director of The Sharon Playhouse, Justin Ball, was the luncheon speaker on July 14th. In addition to previewing the 2015 summer season, he noted that the Board voted to rename the organization from TriArts to make the company and the venue one and the same.
The Purple Bull Award - Not since 2009 has any club member received the Purple Bull Award...until today! Peter Fitting, shown below (left) presents the award to the reigning Thrower of the Bull Champ to Terry Dougherty!
Kevin O'Connell (L) conducts his first Business Meeting as SRC President at the July 7th meeting. Digby Brown (R) reports on our very successful July 4th fireworks night at Lime Rock Park.
Happy Independence Day! It was a big night at Lime Rock Park and a perfect night for our annual July 4th fireworks to raise money for local scholarships and other "good works." For 30+ years, Lime Rock Park has donated its site and personnel allowing the Salisbury Rotary Club to benefit from sponsoring this great event. John Parsons (below), one of our new members this past year, shown here collecting admission fees.
The Changing of the Guard - The gavel was passed at the June 30th meeting from outgoing Club President, John Hedbavny, to newly elected President, Kevin O'Connell. Kevin is the Campus Administrator & CEO of GEER Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Canaan (CT).
Joel Rissinger: speaker, trainer, author & life coach has been a professional communicator for almost 30 years. He was our speaker June 23 with a message to "Talk to the Head But Speak to the Heart" as the way to connect with people.
Tuesday, June 16, 2015: Ed Logan, introduced by club member and friend of forty years (!) Jerry Baldwin, gave a very interesting talk on polar bears, accompanied by wonderful photos he took of them while in Antartica..jpg)
Former Rotary Youth Exchange Student, Mark "Max" Zuffo, was our speaker this past Tuesday. Max is from Brazil and returned to the NW Corner to visit SRC member Laura Flores who was his host family in 1994 -1995. He spoke of his experiences as a high school exchange student here and in Massachusetts 20 years ago, the culture shock and adjustments he had to make and, more importantly, the positive and lasting impact the year and experience has had on his life. With a recent Masters degree from Harvard, he now serves as a District Attorney in Brazil. Mark is shown below with his wife and eleven month old son, club president John Hedbavny, and Laura Flores (left).
June 2 at the Interlaken Inn in Lakeville, those present heard a most moving, interesting and inspiring presentation by Tin Aung Moe of Myanmar (formerly Burma). His touching life journey has led him to creating his own company, Care & Share Myanmar Travels, through which he offers highly personalized tours of his country to English-speaking groups, specializing in Myanmar's culture, history, and current affairs. He was introduced by former SRC member, and owner of Clock Tower Travel (Sharon, CT), Birgit Parajola. For More Info - www.cns.myanmartravels.com
Thanks to two club members who work for Salisbury Bank & Trust (Kim Downey & Mona Staaf-Gunther), the Salisbury Rotary Club is the Business Partner of the Month with a display table last month in the Lakeville Branch and now, this month, in the Salisbury Branch! Thank you SBT and to Kim & Mona!
Dr. Joshua Ginsburg, Executive Director of the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Sudies in Millbrook (NY), spoke to club on May 26 and gave a most interesting and informative talk. This is an independent, not-for-profit environmental research organization dedicated to the scientific study of the world’s ecosystems and the natural and human factors that influence them. Club member John Parsons introduced him.
The Salisbury Rotary Club had a visible presence at Salisbury's annual Memorial Day parade.
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Two former members of our club: (l) Ron Jones and (r) Ed "Nick" Nickerson, also attended the parade.
Dan Bolangani, Executive Director of the Upper Housatonic National Heritage Area, spoke May 19 about the federally funded, not-for-profit org that covers 29 towns and 55 miles of the upper Housatonic River. Their work to date has included historic site markers, publications, and soon-to-be open bicycle trails. Shown here with club president, John Hedbavny, and Program/Speaker Chair, Mona Staaf-Gunther.
Club Treasurer, Susan Dickinson, reported at our May 5 Business Meeting that our Derby Day "Run-for-the-Roses" fundraiser, co-sponsored with Canaan Exchange Club, raised a little over $15,000 for local scholarships, grants to local Not-for-profit organizations and other "good works!"
Saturday, May 2, 2015
4th Annual "Run-for-the-Roses" fundraiser on Derby Day! A fun time for all and a great success for our Rotary Club with a little more than $15,000 raised with our co-sponsor, Canaan Exchange Club. Money raised is for local scholarships, grants to local not-for-profit orgs, our international projects, and other "good works." Many thanks to all for hard work and support!
4th Annual "Run-for-the-Roses" fundraiser on Derby Day! A fun time for all and a great success for our Rotary Club with a little more than $15,000 raised with our co-sponsor, Canaan Exchange Club. Money raised is for local scholarships, grants to local not-for-profit orgs, our international projects, and other "good works." Many thanks to all for hard work and support!
Club member Terry Dougherty (L) introduces Stephen Langley (R), executive director of Mountainside (Canaan) and April 28 luncheon program speaker.
(L) Club President John Hedbavny among the 11 awarded Presidential Citations at the District Conference in Hartford, CT, out of 60 clubs in District 7890; (R) DG Mike Roy also presented John Hedbavny with the District's Woodruff Key Award.
Jonathon Doster took us to Burma on Tuesday, April 21. Photographer/cinematographer Jonathan Doster shared his impressions of the people, land and Buddhist culture of exotic Burma via a wonderful multimedia presentation, followed by comments and answering questions. A native of coastal Georgia, he has lived in Sharon since 1986. In 2010, he presented his work on Burma to the World Affairs Council.
Hunter Nelson, a Junior at Southern Connecticut and past president of Rotary's INTERACT club while at Housatonic Valley Regional H.S., spoke to our club about her commitment to "service above self" and hopes of volunteering in Costa Rica this summer doing house-to-house public health surveying, giving care in an acute care clinic, interviewing patients, screening for lice, parasites, diabetes, hypertension and other chronic diseases, community health education and more. The trip will cost more than $2000 and she is asking for help to finance it. Our club has committed $300 and an additional $250 is pledged if club members contribute another $500. So far, $795.00 is pledged. For your gift to be tax deductible, make checks to SRC Foundation.
District Governor, Mike Roy, spoke to our club March 31st. Shown here with Salisbury Rotary Club President John Hedbavny (L) and the club's President Elect, Kevin O'Connell (R).
Town of Salisbury Historian and retired Salisbury Central School teacher, Jean McMillen, returned to the Salisbury Rotary Club as our March 24 luncheon speaker. Her presentation last year on Salisbury Trivia was enjoyed by many. Her new topic, "Salisbury Cemeteries: Past, Present & Future" was equally interesting and informative.
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Sue Atkins spoke to the club on St. Patrick's Day and a delicious corned beef & cabbage lunch was served. Sue has a wealth of Rotary knowledge and experience as a member of the Watertown Rotary Club since 1992 (and served as its President), as our District Governor 2006-07, and she is our District's current Rotary Foundation Chair and Chair for our District Conference in Hartford this April. She spoke about the Foundation and its good work around the world, and encouraged our members to support it and to attend the April 25 - 26 District Conference.
Marlow Shami, Community Outreach Coordinator for the White Memorial Conservation Center in Litchfield, was our March 10th speaker. With beautiful photography and three interesting videos, she shared the Center's mission to inspire understanding, appreciation & understanding of the natural world. The White Memorial is CT's largest (4000-acre) nature & wildlife sanctuary and offers year-round programs.
www.whitememorialcc.org
www.whitememorialcc.org
Club President John Hedbavny displays certificate presented to Salisbury Rotary Club for ranking 5th in District 7890 for dollars contributed by club members in 2013-14 to RI's End Polio Campaign. To donate this year: www.endpolio.org. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will contribute 2-1 whatever you contribute; i.e a $25 donation becomes $75!
Peg Laemmel, one of our newest club members, presented her "autobiography" to the club as our February 24 program speaker. Her journey to serving presently as pastor for the United Methodist Churches in Lakeville & Sharon has included growing up in NY on the Hudson River, studying at and a degree from the University of Denver, the theatre and performing arts, teaching in Japan and then Seminary at Union Theological. We are happy to have her now as a member of Salisbury Rotary!
Sherie Berk was most informative and entertaining as our February 17 program speaker. She shared her experiences as a US Masters Swimmer and spoke about swimming as excellent exercise, especially as we age.
Salisbury Town Selectman, Jim Dresser, spoke to the club at our February 10th meeting on plans for Affordable Housing in the Town of Salisbury.
Two more new members were inducted to our club at our February 3 meeting. Club President John Hedbavny, far left, with Nancy Tidd and Fran Chapell, and their sponsor, Bill Spalding.
Duane Estes and five students from Salisbury Boys School presented a most interesting program on "Athletes Who Broke the Color Barrier" that included quotes from MLK speeches - a wonderful way for our club to recognize Martin Luther King Jr. Day. To see more photo's of this days meeting click on the photo album named MLK speeches.
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Fred Spoor chaired the club's annual "Grab Bag" luncheon - a fun-time for all re-gifting those unwanted holiday presents recently received!
"Pastor Peg" Laemmel, minister for Lakeville's & Sharon's United Methodist Churches, was inducted as a new member at the January 6, 2015 meeting by Immediate Past President Lanze Beizer (right) and current Club President John Hedbavny (left). Happy New Year to All!!
Our Club Holiday Luncheon was enjoyed by some 50 members, widows of past Rotarians and guests. All were treated to a wonderful meal, "holiday movie trivia" by Duane Estes, and a group-sing of holiday songs led by Bill Spalding & club president, John Hedbavny. "Thank you" to Mona Staaf-Gunther for organizing and Laura Flores for "special guests" arrangements!
Club President, John Hedbavny, presents a "Community Gifts" check, at the December 9 meeting, to Jean Emberlain, who then speaks to the club about Canaan's Fishes & Loaves program that she administers.
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Our Tuesday, 11/25/14 meeting was fun and productive. With Peter Fitting as our auctioneer and 30+ in attendance, we raised just over $1000.00 at our annual Food Auction for our "good works" fund! In addition, our generous members brought lots of non-perishable food items for our club to donate to Lakeville's Corner Food Pantry and to Fishes & Loaves in Canaan (Bill Spalding & Digby Brown ready to load the cars for delivery.) HAPPY THANKSGIVING to all!!
At our November 11th Veteran's Day meeting, we recognized our veterans present and thanked them for their service. Our program speakers were Lea Davies (left), Board Chair, and Heather Dineen (right), executive director, of Chore Service. Chore Service is the leading in-home care resource for stay-at-home services in the Northwest Corner; their main office is in Lakeville. For more info: www.choreservice.org
Our club-sponsored Election Day Breakfast at the Congregational Church in Salisbury.
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Checks totaling $5000 were presented at the 10/14/14 luncheon meeting of the Salisbury Rotary Club to representatives of five local organizations in support of services they provide. The representative from Fishes & Loaves (Canaan, CT) was unable to attend. Shown are the following, after being presented their check from Rotary’s Community Gifts program by Club President, John Hedbavny: L to R: Marla Miller, The Corner Food Pantry (formerly, OWL’s Kitchen); B.J. Christinat, Canaan Social Services; John Hedbavny; Ella Clark, Northwest Hills COG Fuel Bank;Pat Chamberlain & Jose Martinez, Region One Schools (Food for Thought Program).
Club members gather at Jerry Baldwin’s Caddy Shack in Canaan for fun, fellowship & burgers on September 30th, 2014.
Deirdre Houlihan DiCara, executive director of FISH (Friends in Service to Humanity of NW CT) spoke to our club on Tuesday, Octobr 21st. The mission of FISH is to meet the most basic of human needs--food, shelter and hope.
Please Welcome new member John Parsons (right). John currently works at the First Niagara Bank and is the new manager of the Millerton, NY branch. John is joined by Mona Staaf-Gunther, (left) and President John Hedbavny(center). John was the past President of the LaGrange Rotary, Past AG District 7210 Legion 3. He volunteers on several local boards/organizations including Dutchess County 4H, Gallatin Fire District, Srringendo Orchestra School, Harlem Valley Rail Trail.
Our club had a visible presence at Salisbury’s annual
Fall Festival (October 11, 2014). Above - Club President
John Hedbavny; Below - Bill Spalding, Neil Scott, Digby
Brown, Kevin O’Connell, John Hedbavny
Fall Festival (October 11, 2014). Above - Club President
John Hedbavny; Below - Bill Spalding, Neil Scott, Digby
Brown, Kevin O’Connell, John Hedbavny
Tom Zetterston (right) with Kevin O'Connell-V.P. spoke to our rotary club on Invasive Plant Impact, Identification, and Management in parks, campuses, roadsides and in your backyard. Should you have questions please contact Tom at zetterstrom@sbcgobal.net
John Parson educated us on how to make Duck Confit. From raising the duckto the final product.
Evan Brunetti, Esq. Chief Clerk Farmington-Burlington Court spoke to our club regarding Connecticut's Probate Law Practice and Procedures.
Salisbury Rotary Club member, Jim Britt, was the featured Rotary luncheon speaker at Geer Village on Tuesday, August 26, sharing slides and stories of his six weeks this summer as a volunteer at the Lake Atitlan Wellness Clinic in rural Guatemala. This was his seventh summer there as a volunteer and he has been instrumental in getting the needed clinic functioning to meet the many health-related needs in the Lake Atitlan region. Jim is the computer technology staff person for the Salisbury Central School.
Our Salisbury Rotary Club had a presence and good visibility at the Tri-State Chamber of Commerce’s “Buy Local” Festival, held at the Hotchkiss School inLakeville on Sunday, August 17, 2014. Pictured here, L to R, are club members Rick DelPrete, Digby Brown, and Club President, John Hedbavny. Other
Club members provided coverage throughout the day, 10AM-3PM.
The September 19th meeting included an informative presentation on Salisbury Family Services by its director, Patrice McGrath. In addition, we welcomed two special Rotary District 7890 guests: Robert Belden (New Milford Club), Area 8 Assistant Governor, and Kyong Wilson (Bristol Club), District Governor Nominee for 2015-2016. Pictured here, L to R, with Salisbury Club President John Hedbavny: Robert Belden, Kyong Wilson, John Hedbavny, Patrice McGrath.
Our own Duane Estes kept us interested and laughing during his presentation on “Road Trips & Baseball~1948-1958.” Duane was our program speaker Tuesday, August 12, 2014. Thanks, Duane!
John Parsons, Assistant VP of First Niagara Bank in Millerton (NY),became our spontaneous “fill-in” speaker at July 29th’s luncheon meeting.
A long-time member and past-President of the LaGrange (NY) Rotary Club,
he shared successes and strategies for building membership and fund-raising efforts
for the club’s varied local and international projects. His wife is President of the Millbrook
(NY) Rotary Club. We were happy to have him as a guest.
A long-time member and past-President of the LaGrange (NY) Rotary Club,
he shared successes and strategies for building membership and fund-raising efforts
for the club’s varied local and international projects. His wife is President of the Millbrook
(NY) Rotary Club. We were happy to have him as a guest.
Rosemary Jones regional CT Area on Aging, spoke to club members and guests on Medicare fraud and how to prevent it.
Chris Brennan tells club members about the Salisbury Association. Since its founding in 1902, the Salisbury Association has carried out its original charter to benefit the Town, protect its natural resources, celebrate local history and present cultural experiences for the enrichment of all. 
John F. Leich, past president 1996-1997, cuts the cake at the July 8th luncheon meeting, kicking off the Salisbury Rotary Club’s 65th Anniversary year!
Annual Rotary-sponsored 
4th of July Fireworks at Lime Rock Park to benefit local scholarships. Great weather, great attendance, great event!
Welcome New President, John Hedbavny ( holding the gavel) sworn in on June 24th, 2014.
New Officers for 2014-2015 . From left to right, Kevin O'Connell-1st Vice President, Susan Dickinson-Treasurer, John Hedbavny-President-Kim Downey-Secretary, Lance Beizer-Past President and Michele Gorat-2nd Vice President.
Justin Ball, the new executive director at Tri-Arts Sharon Playhouse spoke to Rotary, 4-8-14 a little bit about himself and what is going on with Tri-Arts and the upcoming shows!
Barbara Manring - our District representative for the Rotary Int'l Foundation introduced a special visitor, PDG Frank Wargo another Rotarian who has traveled around the world for polio plus. Frank told our club some of his very sad stories which had happy endings which were due to Rotarians help. He said our Rotary dollars really do make a huge difference. He couldn't speak without a tear in his eye. 
Bob Green - President and Executive Director of Survive the Drive spoke to our Club on March 11th, 2014. Bob is a Professional Driving Enthusiast, Automotive Training and Traffic Safety Specialist, Motor Sports and Automobile Race Driving Instructor and Automotive Event Coordinator. 
Please welcome new member- Jim Britt. Jim was sworn in to our Club on March 4th, 2014. He works in the technology department at the Salisbury Central School, and has been part of our local community for many years. 
Judge Charles C. Vail spoke to our club on Health Care Instructions and Powers of Attorney on February 25th, 2014.
Pak Kyung-Director (left) and Shin Houn-Yee spoke about the history of Korea. The work for the non profit organization to promote Korean spirit and culture.
Mona introduced our speaker, Sam Brown (Rotarian from Chester, CT), who gave a very interesting presentation on Project Amigo. This program enables poor children of Colima, Mexico, to achieve their highest potential by providing educational opportunities, medical support, enrichment activities, medical and dental services. For more info:
Liane Lombardi discussed ways to grow our membership, new and what has worked for other clubs.
Can you name all the members in this picture? This was taken at the Club's 50th Anniversary.
SVNA spoke to our membership regarding what they have to offer and upcoming events.
David Ward (right) from Hotchkiss School spoke to our rotary club about "Gettysburg; where history met Hollywood". Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Rev. Lance Beizer (right) who resides in Canaan, was sworn in as our new President for 2013-2014 by Fred Spoor-past President 2012-2013.
The Salisbury Rotary Club Foundation presented a check for $3,500 to Pat Chamberlain -superintendent for the "Food for Thought" fund, which go towards children s lunches for those in need. Presenting the check is President Fred Spoor (right) and member John Neufeld (left).
Please welcome new member - Michele Gorat, Executor Director for the Salisbury Visiting Nurses Association. Michele is very active with activities related to her children and anxious to expand her community involvement. Michele was sworn in on June 4th, 2013, with member John Neufeld.
Congratulations to Susan Dickinson and Michael Loftus for receiving the Paul Harris Fellowship Award, May 14th, 2013.
The Paul Harris Fellowship was created in memory of Paul Harris, who founded Rotary with 3 business associates in Chicago in 1905. It is awarded to Rotarian's who exemplify Rotary’s motto of “Service Above Self” through their commitment to projects which benefit their community as well as internationally. Susan’s and Michaels can do attitude and willingness to volunteer whenever needed was recognized with receipt of this award. Every Paul Harris Fellow receives a medal, pin and certificate upon becoming a fellow. These identify them as supporters of Rotary’s goals of world peace and international understanding.
Susan is pictured below, with Mona Staaf-Gunther, a past Paul Harris Fellow recipient.
Michael is pictured below with John Neufeld, a past Paul Harris Fellow recipient.
Our 2nd year for "Run For The Roses" event, held on Saturday May 4th, 2013, from 4pm-7pm was a huge success. Great food, friends and conversations.
All had a wonderful time. A special Thank You to "Geer" for hosting the event, and making this such a wonderful day. Also to Sam Yasmer for such wonderful food. Below is a list of this years sponsors- Thank You!!
WIN
Founders Insurance Company
Geer Nursing & Rehabilitation Center
Mountainside
PLACE
Century Aggregates
Salisbury Bank and Trust Company
Fred and Martha Spoor
SHOW
Ascendant Compliance
Terence Dougherty
Drury & Patz Law Firm
Mona Staaf -Gunther
Elyse Harney Real Estate
John Harney Associates Real Estate
Herringtons
Litchfield Bancorp
Salisbury Breads
Salisbury School
Salisbury Visiting Nurses Association
Smith & Watson, CPA’s
William Perotti & Sons
GRANDSTAND
Best & Cavallaro Real Estate
Dr. Robert Bird
Canaan Vision Center
Decker & Beebe
Illinois Tool Works
John Lannen
National Iron Bank
Thornhill Nursery
Woodland Restaurant
Click on More below... to view some pictures of the event!
Kevin is the new administrator of Geer Corporation. He is also a board director of a local YMCA camp. He is interested in community development and local charities.
This year The Salisbury Rotary Club's Community Gifts committee has made donations to the following:
- Canaan Social Worker - B.J. Christinat (pictured below)- $1,500
- Northwest Ct. Fuel Bank - Ella Clark (pictured below)-1,000
- The Fishes & Loaves Food Pantry - $1,000
- Owl's Kitchen - $1,000
Please join us for our annual special Holiday Luncheon on Tuesday, December 18th, 2012.
Members please RSVP to President, Fred Spoor if you plan on attending no later than Friday, December 13th.
Please welcome new member Kim Downey who was sworn in on July 11, 2012. Kim works at the Salisbury Bank & Trust as an AVP and Trust Officer and lives in Lakeville. Welcome Kim!
President Fred Spoor, Kim Downey and Mona Staaf-Gunther, member
President Fred Spoor, Kim Downey and Mona Staaf-Gunther, member
Frederick Spoor (left) of West Cornwall- was sworn in by Rick DelPrete (past President 2010-2011) as Salisbury Rotary Club's NEW President for 2012-2013. Welcome Fred!
