Holiday Brunch with Santa - and Motivational Speaker

Ho Ho Ho - our dedicated member and excellent caterer, Diane Braasch, provided a wonderful brunch, with all kinds of tasty delights (and we already have the best breakfast in town!). We were encouraged to bring guests and were delighted that so many people could join us. Then Santa (or was that Mrs. Claus?) arrived and handed out fun gifts, including a "tea with the Queen" flowery hat for Gillian, and a book for Mody on how to attract a nice Jewish girl. Thanks Diane!

We also had a motivational speaker, David Trotter, who is passionate about helping people awaken to the rich, meaningful life that is available to everyone. A former pastor, David encouraged us to embrace change and to alter our mindset from "criticize, complain, contradict" to "model, share, embrace." In his ministry, just as we do in Rotary, he used this philosophy while traveling to several third-world countries to help others. He co-founded the Awaken children's home in India, providing a home, love, safe water, and education for impoverished orphans.

With over 10 years of non-profit leadership experience, David speaks and writes on the topics of motivation, spirituality, and marriage.

Reminder: Next week, December 29 will be "dark" - no meeting. Our next meeting will be January 5, 2011.

Therapy Dogs

Since Dr. Jerry Von Talge retired from his multi-faceted profession as a trial consultant, expert witness, psychotherapist, minister, and writer, he has been very involved in volunteer work.

One of his passions is to work with animals and he volunteers with the Irvine Animal Shelter, including taking new dog photos weekly for their website. He also volunteers with the Orange County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OCSPCA), which includes PAWS therapy dog visitations to various facilities.

“PAWS” stands for “Pets Are Wonderful Support.” Jerry's wife Jean (a retired trial attorney) became a PAWS volunteer about a year ago. They have two therapy dogs: Tzu (“Sue”) Ling, a Shih Tzu, and Bella, a Shih poo. They brought Sue in to demonstrate her skills on stage!

The Director of PAWS gave an overview of their Program, which has 100 dog teams that work primarily with the elderly in nursing homes, and hospitalized children (25 facilities in all). They also participate in elementary school reading programs.

The President of the OCSPCA provided information on how dogs are selected for this program - several of them (like Sue) came from the Irvine Animal Shelter.

Jerry and Jean have been volunteers for the new UC Irvine Center for Diabetes Treatment & Research since 2004. Dogs have a unique ability to detect subtle changes in human behavior that can signal low blood sugar, heart attacks, seizures, etc. Jerry also does grant writing, promotional materials, photography and newsletter articles for the Center.

There is new and promising work being done in the areas of autism, so dogs truly are a man's best friend. Jerry left us with the thought "Change someone else's life and maybe you will change your own." Certainly that is what we aim to do in Rotary!

Helping to Keep the World Green

Our speaker this week was Michael Renzi, one of the cofounders of Zero Carbon Alliance, which was created to provide an opportunity for ordinary Americans to dramatically increase the use of renewable energy in our nation’s homes and businesses.

We were reminded that 70% of our oil is imported, and only 3% of the energy we consume is "green". However, we have many sources of sustainable green energy, including wind, solar, and water. Also, insulation and recycling play a key role in reducing energy consumption.

Renewable energy certificates can be purchased from wind or solar facilities in a government authorized program, enabling many businesses (including Starbucks, Hilton, and Lowes) to promote themselves as being "green". This can be done on an individual basis as well, which can be done directly with the energy companies or through a broker such as Zero Carbon Alliance.

If we are conscientious about using renewable energy, we should be able to be about 75% "green" in 20-25 years - a wonderful legacy for our children!

Prior to starting Zero Carbon Alliance, Michael held the position as Vice President of Sales with FiberTech Polymers from 2005-2010, manufacturing “eco-responsible” products derived from all recycled waste materials.

National Immunization Day - India

Rotary District 5240 invites interested Rotarians to join a National Immunization Day (NID) trip to India in February 2011. The trip will be approximately two weeks. The participating Rotarian and/or the Rotary club pays the traveling expenses, estimating at $3,000 per person.

This is an extraordinary opportunity to see and participate in the eradication program in a country where polio remains endemic.

For more information, click here.

This week's speaker

Our guest this week is Michael Renzi. Michael is one of the founders of Zero Carbon Alliance. Zero Carbon Alliance was created to provide an opportunity for ordinary Americans to dramatically increase the use of renewable energy in our nation’s homes and businesses.

Prior to starting Zero Carbon Alliance, he held the position as Vice President of Sales with FiberTech Polymers from 2005-2010, manufacturing “eco-responsible” products derived from all recycled waste materials.

Holiday Party

A very jolly time was spent at our annual Holiday party, brilliantly coordinated by Barry Brown and Kathy White, with Luana's superb Christmas House decorations, and with Phil as our bar tender!

The Groves community center was tastefully decorated, with a beautiful Christmas tree and many teddy bears that will later be donated to needy children.

The food was delicious - prime rib and all the trimmings, and a great variety of appetizers and deserts.

We had two skilled musicians playing the guitar and piano, with the highlight being the carol singing at the end, particularly "The Twelve Days of Christmas" - Woody did a fine rendition of the "Five Gold Rings" and most people came in on cue (with Peter and others juggling two "day" too!).

Definitely a great start to the season and we look forward to next year's celebration!

Ringing in the Holiday Season with Sound Therapy

Our speaker this week was Mark Romero, who provided an interesting insight into (and demonstrated) the power of sound therapy.

Using his guitar as a metaphor for life, Mark talked about the need to keep our "strings" in tune, and how musical vibrations can promote health, wellness, and vitality and keep our thoughts, beliefs and perceptions on an even plane.

He demonstrated the effect of these sounds on physical strength by putting our strong, young, athletic Ray Benedicktus to "the test". The fact that he could easily move Ray's arms without the music and couldn't when it was playing, certainly looked convincing!

Formerly the CEO of a successful technology company, Mark has developed a unique process to help individuals attain a higher level of success, improve their health, and enhance their productivity. His scientific breakthrough is expressed by means of his unique musical notes and tones. This tool is a proprietary blend of specific sound frequencies to help reduce stress, "supercharge" performance, and heighten creativity.

Mark Romero Music Inc. offers a wide range of services that build on clients' existing efforts, including his sound therapy CDs, Musical Prescriptions CD series, teleconference series, keynote speaking engagements, private and group coaching sessions, and advisory services.

Leslie Mogul - Marketer, Philanthropist and Fundraiser

It's always interesting to have one of our members be our speaker, giving their "craft talk".

Today we learned a lot about Leslie Mogul, who was raised in Baltimore, has spent several years in Miami, New York, Philadelphia (where she and her husband raised two sons), and San Diego, now happily settled in Laguna (and close to the Irvine Rotary Club!).
Growing up in a family of jewelers and having a mother as an accountant, Leslie learned her sales and marketing skills early. Earning a Marketing degree in Miami, she spent several years in Philadelphia, working for the Penn Central Railroad, creating fun promotions for trips between Washington DC and New York (including fashion shows and historic storytelling).

When the Pennsylvanian railroads merged, she had the fun task of gathering all the old signage and memorabilia and actioning it off - dining car silverware and all. Having to tell the residents of the small towns that their train service was being discontinued was not such fun, however, since most of the towns in the East were built along the railroad tracks.

Back to university for a degree in Communications and Journalism, Leslie became a reporter for the Philadelphia Inquirer and a writer for Ladies Home Journal, followed by several years working in advertising and PR for home furnishings, flooring, and Jeeps, traveling all over the country promoting the products. She then started her own PR agency during "the days of international and national clients and million dollar budgets" which, for Leslie, included Ed McMahon and Juliet Prowse.

After marrying Bill in Philadelphia, they owned a stained glass studio and production factory that provided glass to Atlantic City casinos and churches. They also renovated a 150 year old apartment building on Philly's famous South Street, and owned a historic home once famous for slave running.

Moving across country to San Diego, Leslie created a marketing and PR agency for Scripps Health, representing 15 hospitals and clinics and 2,600 doctors. She then created her own agency, doing PR, Marketing, and now Fundraising for other major healthcare organizations (and earned an MBA in Finance). Bill focused his artistic abilities on hot glass, owning a blown glass gallery and studio in Escondido.

In total, Leslie has helped to raise over $50 million for various non-profit organizations, with her proudest achievement being the $2 million she helped raise to rebuild the Escondido animal shelter after it burned down.

Always wanting to live by the beach, Leslie and Bill now live in Laguna Woods, where they enjoy golf, horseback riding, tennis and walking. Bill makes sculptural jewelry and Leslie is in charge of fundraising at the Laguna Playhouse (and several of us have enjoyed a number of plays there!).

Leslie and Bill also own a plot of land in Mexico so perhaps a new adventure awaits them there - and in the meantime her fundraising talent can help us raise funds for the dental clinics and school projects we participate in every year!

Life After Polio – JoAnne Brooks

What is polio and why is Rotary so focused on eradicating it from the face of the earth? This is a question we "Baby Boomers" are often asked by younger people who have never been exposed to the devastating effects of this crippling disease.

JoAnne Brooks from Laredo, Texas, gave us a startling reminder of how being infected with the polio virus can change your life for ever. Contracting the virus at the age of four, JoAnne instantly became paralyzed in both arms and her right hand, and this has remained unchanged over the past 48 years.

However, those who know her well, have difficulty labeling JoAnne as disabled. There is little she cannot and does not do. "Can't" is not a word she uses very frequently. She has raised two children (her daughter Brittany is a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force, and her son Austin is studying political science and Spanish at North Texas University). Her husband Greg has remained supportive and helped her and the children through many changes in their lives.

JoAnne hopes to serve as an inspiration for others facing challenges in their lives. She also hopes to teach by showing through her actions and life that “Disability” is just a word and a label. We each determine our own boundaries and choose what challenges we will overcome.

Having been a probation officer for many years, JoAnne now spends much of her time working with the Salk Institute to promote awareness about polio, the importance of being vaccinated against it, and the increasing incidence of "post-polio syndrome". Often misdiagnosed as multiple sclerosis, post-polio syndrome is actually the "wearing out" of muscle and nerves that have compensated for those damaged by polio. This results in breathing, swallowing, and other problems - often in people who did not know they had been infected by the polio virus.

So, polio is very much both "past and present" in the US and as Rotarians, we should be very proud that Rotary (with help from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation) is helping to put it in the "past" for all nations of the world!

To learn more about polio, JoAnne's life (and her incredible skill as an artist, making jewelry with her feet), please watch the video below, and visit www.poliotoday.org.

Ensenada Dental Clinic next Saturday, November 13

Our semi-annual Ensenada Dental Clinic is this coming Saturday.

The school is Maestros de Baja California, located in Colinas de San Angel, a very poor suburb of Ensenada and home to primarily immigrants from other parts of Mexico.

Following the clinic, we are invited to the Club Rotario Ensenada Calafia's XII Christmas Expo, the club's annual fundraiser.

It will be held in the Salon Casino of the Riviera de Ensenada Building on the main boulevard. There will be food, beverages, music and lots of things to buy.

If you are staying overnight at the Hotel Coral, please make your reservations soon.

South County Outreach - Norah Dopudja

Norah Dopudja is the new Director of Homeless Prevention and Mentored Learning for South County Outreach. She holds a BS from California State University Fullerton in Human Services.

Norah has enjoyed working with and learning from the homeless and at-risk population for the last decade. She brings with her extensive experience and passion for service to her community.

As Director of Operations for Birth Choice Pregnancy Center, Norah opened and oversaw four non-profit community care clinics in Orange County. Norah was also responsible for the day-to-day operations of the clinics as well as developing training programs for hundreds of staff, client advocates and volunteers.

Serving in multiple roles at Toby’s House Maternity Home, Norah worked as case manager for the residential facility and volunteer coordinator. There Norah was responsible for completing a comprehensive assessment plan for each new resident and addressing clients’ needs and goals in the areas of housing, education, health, psychological well-being, childcare, and career.

While working as volunteer coordinator, Norah enjoyed training and working with hundreds of mentors, interns, contractors and volunteer personnel dealing with client needs.

Exchanging banners

During last week's meeting our President, Mody Gorsky, exchanged banners with President-Elect Prakash A. Bhulani from the Rotary club of Calicut Midtown, District 3202, Kerala, India. This is a small town on the southwest coast of India. Calicut is one of the main commercial cities of Kerala. The ship on the banner represents the city's history of being one of the main ports on the "Spice Route."

Living the Feng Shui way

by Gillian Bradshaw

I am sure that after today's presentation, we all went back to our homes and determined whether our floor plans fit into the Feng Shui "Bagua", or octagonal shape that represents the energy of the earth and how this is used to create balance in our lives.

Jessie Kim, a Feng Shui professional from Korea, gave us an excellent overview of Feng Shui and how this ancient Chinese science and art can be used to assure good health, wealth, careers, relationships, etc.

We learned how, in China and other Asian nations, houses are built to allow the earth's natural energy to flow through it, and how, for example, people avoid living on cul-de-sacs where the air cannot "flow". Also, that the front door can never be opposite the back door (like in my house!), and how no part of a room should be "behind a door" (so the computer I am working on right now isn't technically in the room!).

However, Jessie explained that houses (and work spaces, etc) can be adapted to the Feng Shui style by appropriate placement of items that represent the elements (metal, water, earth, wood, and fire), as well as sounds, shapes, and colors.

We Rotarians clearly fit well within the Feng Shui Bagua, with our balance of Helpful people, Health, Water, Knowledge, etc - all centered around the Earth - no wonder the cogs of the Rotary wheel keep on turning so well.

JDRF Sit In/Protest UN-Walk.

This was the 16th year for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s Shooting Stars family team to gather to raise money for diabetes research! And for our 3rd year in a row, we staged a Sit In/Protest UN-Walk. Over 50 “un-walkers” gathered, on the first sunny day we’d had in weeks…shared bagels, pastries and coffee, friendship and support…just WONDERFUL!

To date, we’ve raised over $6,000, with monies still coming in! And our t-shirt proved to be a “talking” point, illustrating the exciting new research, coming out of UCI and JDRF, involving the venom of sea anemones from a bay in Cuba.

For all your support and love, THANK YOU so very much!

With hugs,

Joanne Milo

Geologist turns Lawyer?

Our speaker today was our own Mark Brubaker who gave his "craft talk". While I think most of us thought "oh, we know what attorneys do", we were very interested and entertained by Mark's talk - starting with his birthplace, Cortez in Montezuma County, Colorado (population 8,000).

Here he enjoyed a very family-oriented life and many outdoor pursuits, including hunting. Geology seemed a natural career to pursue, so Mark studied geology and chemistry at Fort Louis College in Durango, paying his way by building houses in Green River, Wyoming, and working as a summer intern at an oil company.

As a geologist, he worked for a gold mining company in the Carolinas and Mexico and then (like other gold seekers before him) found himself moving West. Since there was no gold to be found in Santa Monica, he decided to go to law school instead - and ended up using his geology and law education by representing McDonnell Douglas on toxic oil spills and the effects on the environment (imagine that ... BP could really use his help now in the Gulf of Mexico!). He also worked on the Apollo 8 oxygen system project.

The next step in his interesting career was working in a huge international law firm in Irvine with 3,000 attorneys, before setting up his own business managing business transactions and litigation.

Mark has been married to his wife, Susan, for 17 years (also an attorney - yikes) and is enjoying raising his 14 year old son, Jonathan (an avid water polo player), and 10 year old daughter, Katie (a budding ballerina) - not forgetting his 2 year old labrador.

Thanks Mark! We always love to learn more about our members, "new and old" - and it is especially good for us to get to know our President-Elect better!

Program: Feng Shui

Jessie Kim, or Ms. Feng Shui as she is professionally known, will be joining us for our upcoming meeting. Born in Korea, Jessie is a lifelong student of Feng Shui and comes from a family of Feng Shui tradition. Jessie is licensed by Feng Shui Palace and has professionally consulted to businesses, real estate agents, investors, and individuals since 2000.

Jessie will not only help us develop a fundamental understanding of Feng Shui, but will also provide us with guided examples of how to use Feng Shui to balance the energy in our own homes and businesses.

Feng Shui (pronounced “fung shway”) is an ancient science and art that was developed over 3,000 years ago in China. It is based on the idea that the land is alive and filled with Chi, or energy. Understanding of Feng Shui can help balance the energies of various spaces to assure good health, wealth, careers, relationships, romance, etc.

For the meeting Jessie has requested we all bring a floor plan of our home, doesn't have to be a professional floor plan but hand drawn layout of our home would be fine too.

StoveTeam project in The Rotarian Magazine

The latest issue of The Rotarian Magazine has an article about StoveTeam's mission to provide fuel-efficient stoves to the world. Click here to see the online version.

IUSD honors Irvine Rotary

The Irvine Unified School District presented the Irvine Rotary with an award honoring the club's 14 year effort to provide Irvine students access to dental care. The presentation was held at the IUSD board of directors meeting on Tuesday, October 19. The board also honored the efforts of Dental Care for Children, the non-profit started by local dentist, Dr. Charles Tozzer.

Ensenada dental clinic a success

It is a pleasant, early Saturday and the people in the hills above Ensenada are gathering at the local Church, not for services, but to see the dentist. There is an air of excitement, since people who may have been in pain for weeks or months now have a once-a-year opportunity to have their worst dental problems fixed. The clinic is in the Iglesia Betesda church, located in the hills east of Ensenada. The pastor, Felipe Saurez de Jesus, has built this church with his own hands over the past decade to administer to the poor, mostly immigrant families from the southern parts of Mexico who move north looking for jobs. And it’s not his first. His previous church, also built by his own hands, sits on another hilltop about a half-mile away. His commitment to his parishioners and his community is what attracted Dr. Charles Tozzer to help almost a decade ago.

Dr. Tozzer founded Dental Care for Children, an Irvine based non-profit dedicated to helping children with free dental care wherever they may be. Presently, his organization participates in eight clinics a year; four in Mexico, two in Haiti and two in the United States. But he’s become a resource for other dentists and organizations wanting to set up clinics in other areas. With his help and assistance, there are now free clinics in Africa and Central America. DCFC has been providing services to this underserved part of Baja California for over eighteen years and have earned the gratitude of the entire community. There is always a line of people waiting for this annual opportunity to be seen by a dentist.

Each clinic’s primary aim is to do something for everyone but the volunteers realize that it is almost impossible to completely meet everyone’s needs. So they try to treat people who need help the most, or whose condition can be dealt with quickly. The dentists provide a real gamut of services from x-rays to crowns, from cleanings and fillings, even to root canals and dentures. But often, the only solution for many is to remove the teeth, which is done in about a third of the cases.

The 22-person dental staff, a few of them in their final studies at USC dental school and working under the supervision of the licensed U.S. dentists, provide more than $66,000 in free dental care during this visit.

Since there will be a follow-up visit in five weeks they are able to do impressions for crowns and partial dentures to replace missing teeth. The lab work is donated by U.S. companies to restore dental function for these people. They will also be able to evaluate the results of the hygiene services and training they provide to help these people keep their teeth.

Project funding is accomplished by direct grants and support from other organizations. The Irvine Rotary club has been a key sponsor, each year underwriting two of the clinics in Ensenada and one in Irvine. Irvine Rotary pairs up with the Rotary Club of Ensenada Calafia to select and manage two projects that are held in local elementary schools. The local club works with the Ensenada school district to select the school most in need. On one Saturday, the clinic is open to all the children who attend the school. The children get their teeth checked and fixed while the parents, Rotarians and teachers help fix up the school.

Dental Care for Children makes sure that everything is done using the latest in equipment and in compliance with local rules and regulations. They prepare extensive paperwork that has to be submitted to both U.S. and Mexican Customs, certifying the origins, dates of manufacture, and usages. In order to comply they are greatly helped by the advice and assistance of Señor Héctor Higuera, the Chief of Tourist Assistance, who has been very clear and helpful about the requirements and paperwork required to allow for a smooth and problem free border crossing. For this trip, Señor Higuera met the team at the border and complimented them on their service and attention to detail in preparing all of the necessary forms to make the border crossing easier.

Name Change!

The Rotary Club of Irvine Spectrum is no longer! In fact, it's shorter.

The club has changed their name to better reflect the area they serve as well as the club members.

The new name is The Rotary Club of Irvine.

District Governor visits Irvine Spectrum Rotary

In 1993, 6 months into a new business my husband Bruce and I had started, Bruce received a letter asking him, as “The President” of the business - to come as a guest to a Rotary meeting - to check it out.

Since I was the president of the company he gave “me” the invitation to attend.

Well, knowing that Rotary was an organization made up of business men, - I a business woman - and president of the company, decided I would take time from my very busy schedule to “attend the meeting” and to leave a rather large “Gender Chip” on my shoulder - right in the middle of their “good old boys” club!

When I got there I was right! There they were, all men standing around talking to each other – so - I threw back my shoulders, stood tall, with the invitation letter in hand, walked right up to the registration table And firmly told the gentleman behind the table I was here to check out Rotary and here was the invitation that the Vice President of our company had received in error.

Bob, the Rotarian behind the table - looked up with a big smile and said he was very happy to see me. He called Larry over and introduced me to Larry as a guest.

Larry reached out his hand to shake my hand AND with a big smile and said “welcome to Rotary, we are glad you came”.

We chatted a few minutes and he said come in and meet the members – Larry introduced me to everyone in the room.

Well, to make a long story short. I was invited back to the next’s week meeting and “honestly” – I couldn’t wait to go back!

And before I knew it -
I was a Member of the Rotary Club of East Anaheim.

Of course, I was way too busy – remember it was the “start up year” of our business and I did have that “Gender Chip” on my shoulder AND it was a club of elite, exclusive, seasoned business men. I was so wrong!

I was enjoying the fellowship and working with the guys on community projects – here were group of professionals that had connected their heads to their hearts.

But, my Rotary story stopped in 1996 when the club turned in their charter and I walked away.

It wasn’t until 3 years later I went to lunch at my husband’s Rotary Club and met LOWELL JONES - “LBJ” — a 50 year perfect attendance Rotarian – we chatted and he asked if I knew about Rotary - of course I told him my Rotary story and we had a fine time.

The next day when I got back from lunch, the little red message light on my phone was blinking - I had a voice mail message from LBJ –

it was sure nice to meet you and we would like you to join the Rotary Club of Anaheim.

Of course, I was extremely too busy and he didn’t ask me to call him back so I didn’t –

The next Monday around 2:00 pm that little red message light on my phone was blinking, it was a message from LBJ telling me what a great Rotarian I would be and asking me to come back to another meeting.

Every Monday around 2:00 pm for more than 2 months, that little red light was blinking with the message from LBJ asking me to come back to Rotary.

I finally relented and went to a meeting to tell LB to stop calling me - he was so pleased to see me he could barely contain himself – I didn’t have the heart to tell him not to call me and we had another fun time that day.

After that meeting - he called every day until I came back and joined Rotary – I am proud to say LBJ sponsored me into the Rotary Club of Anaheim in 2000.

And Here I am your District Governor – Who knew! LBJ knew!

As you Governor it is my responsibility to share with you what work is taking place at Rotary International this year.

Rotary International President Ray Klinginsmith is doing things differently. He is encouraging us to take a back-to- basics approach and look at things with good old “Cowboy Logic” if it ain’t broke don’t fix it - If it don’t work get rid of it.

He, with the “RI” Board of Directors recently adopted a revised plan for Rotary

that focuses on promoting 3 elements essential to our future:
Strong clubs,
Effective Service,
And a unified and recognized brand

Recognizing and promoting that - Rotary is a grassroots organization and most of its humanitarian efforts are carried out at the club level - President Ray is promoting the 3 Bs -

Bigger, Better, Bolder –

BIGGER not necessarily bigger clubs but bigger thinking in our clubs – BE innovative BE flexible –
These are not the good old days of Rotary. Be creative, look at the ordinary and see the extraordinary.
BETTER – Consider implementing a vision plan in your club, look at what is not working and what is working - ask yourselves - is your club balancing activities in the 5 Avenues of Service.

BOLDER – Promote networking, talk business, do business with Rotarians. Look at sustainable service - as you continue to create significant projects both locally and internationally

I know you all agree - Making stronger rotary clubs makes Rotary strong.

President Ray has made it very clear it my responsibility is to help make better Rotary Clubs by helping you meet your goals.

There are 120 Rotarians volunteering to support the 46 clubs in your district.

You have directly available to you - your Assistant Governor Jim Rutter

New to the District this year, are Membership Area Coordinators (MACS) and Rotarian Rick Topping is assigned to work with himself your membership chair

There are Foundation Area Coordinators too (FACS) and Rotarian Mary Mar has been assigned to work with Ray Benedictus your Foundation Chair.

Our goal is to help the Irvine Spectrum Club be a stronger Rotary Club by giving you the resources and support to help you reach YOUR goals.

Rotary International is NOT setting the goals you are. Rotary International President Ray recognizes that Rotary starts and ends with the individual clubs not at Rotary International.

President MODY recognizes the importance of quality membership - and the value - of retaining members. He has worked with you to set a goal for the club 4 members net.

Now at the end of the Rotary year – should you succeed in reaching your membership goal and you have included in net growth women and members under 40 years

Your club will be in the running to win a special dinner for 6 served at our home by past district governors. Did a mentioned this includes wine and a visit to the private Solari cellars?

I have all the confidence that this club will meet your membership goal and even - go beyond it!

Because, YOU- like my Rotary sponsor LBJ - will get your “ASK - in gear”!

President MODY is confidence that everyone in the club supports the Rotary Foundation as you have an “All-Time Giving” to the Rotary Foundation of more than $335,000.00 to date.

I believe you are as pleased as I am that your club can receive matching grant money from the Foundation to work with people in need and money from the District Simplified Grant fund to help fund community projects supported by Irvine Spectrum Rotarians.

President MODY’s goal is to have everyone in the club give $300 this coming Rotary year

As a leader that - walks he talk - President MODY has made a donation to the foundation – he would not ask you give – if he did not give - and I would not ask him to give - if I did not give to the Foundation.

If you haven’t gone to the new District Website please take a minute to click onto rotary5320.org. It has been updated and is an active resource for you to take advantage of. We will continue to add new things each week. Check it out

We also upgraded your district online directory. Take a look and be sure the information about you is correct.

Thank you for supporting the End Polio Champaign.

As you know, 25 years ago Rotary made a promise to the world that we would eradicate the disease of polio from the face of the earth. To date 2 billion children have been immunized against polio – there are only 4 countries left in the world that are experiencing the pain of polio —as long as polio threatens even one child anywhere in the world, children everywhere - including our children in the United States - remain at risk. The stakes are that high - you can help Rotary achieve a polio-free world we are inches away.

On September 10th - Rotarians in the District came out in record numbers to recognize our outstanding Rotarians who exemplify integrity and high ethically standards and live the 4-Way Test. Congratulations to all 29 nominees

There are some special surprises in store for us at the Foundation Dinner this year - it will be a fun time recognizing contributions of clubs and individuals. Mark your calendars November 13th. Your club has already purchased 2 tables and I am looking forward to seeing you all there!

I hope you will seriously consider joining us at the District Conference to “Celebrate Rotarians and the Heart of Rotary” it will be at the Hilton Hotel in Irvine across from the OC Airport on April 29th30th and May 1st.

And plans are being made now for a sneak preview of the District Conference on February 6th 2011. (Place Mats) – 2 representatives to take a look.

I am so confident that you will find the district conference to be a valuable experience - that - if you disagree - I promise to personally refund your registration fee. Look forward to seeing you all there

Our Group Study Exchange team coming in from the Netherlands - They will be here for about 4 weeks April 19th – May 15th 2011- The team will be focused on vocations that involve peace and conflict resolution. There will be 5 team members and a team leader. This will be a unique opportunity to be involved as a fun peace ambassador for your club.

And of course we will tie up the year at International Convention in New Orleans. Lazie Lay Bon Toms Roule – Let the good times roll. May 22nd – 24th, 2011

My passion for Rotary is – “Doing Good in the World”

I love to be involved with Rotarians like you, who share your hearts by doing and giving.

It is inspirational for me - to see you - truly putting forth every effort “to do good in the world”

(Irvine Spectrum projects)

For 19 years the Rotary Club of Irvine Spectrum has been sharing their hearts with this community and the world.

Irvine Spectrum Rotarians have change lives ---- have saved lives. You have touched people you will never see.

You have planted the precious seeds of hope in children, you have given the gift of laughter and imagination to children that had none, you showed troubled youth that had given up- that you care about them, that the community cares about them, you support the Boys & Girls Club

You have given families another opportunity to life without domestic violence, you have brought smiles and confidence to children living through domestic violence, supporting Toby’s house and Laurel House

you gave children their first books to read, you have given scholarships rewarding and recognizing academic achievement allowing high school students to pursue their education, you give the gift of the “Arts” supporting Partners in Harmony,

You support RYLA encouraging children to stretch their competitive muscle, learn the value of integrity, and give them the ability to see and know their inner strengths to become better people, you have given seniors the resources to maintain their independence and quality of life,

You gave the gift of laughter and assurance to American troops engaged in military combat, you thanked them for their sacrifice supporting Snowball Express, and Wounded Warriors,

You gave people in developing countries their dignity, you gave the gifts of self-reliance, sustainability and hope; you gave children in Romania the gift of school supplies, computers,

For 11 years you have been giving the gift of good dental care to primary school children,

You have given the gift of clean water and permanent water storage to children in orphanages in Myanmar,

You bought stoves for families in El Salvador who cooked with open fire saving children from being burned and having on-going health issues,

You bought polio vaccines giving children of the world another chance to live a better life without being paralyzed, you are a 200% Paul Harris Club.

You have shared your love, your humor, your time, your hearts.

You have followed through with you promise to “do good in the world”.

You do so much for the community locally and internationally.

This club is stronger through the hard work of your members and your committed leadership.

I have learned that our leaders in rotary are committed to make Rotary better - and know the way to do this - is by making our clubs stronger.

Rotary is the club! Rotary is this club!

I am proud to be a Rotarian in the same district with the Irvine Spectrum Rotarians.

I know you take your heart into the game and leave nothing on the field.

You are doing an incredible job.

You are “Building Communities – Bridging Continents

Thank you for giving me another opportunity to enrich our lives in Rotary service.

Raising UP your parents

They've raised us - and what fine Rotarians we have turned out to be! Now it's our turn to take care of our parents - helping to raise them up above the average lifestyle of aging seniors.

Our speaker this week was Joel Geffen, who brought Life Line Screening to the West Coast (an affordable community-based health screening service provided in senior centers, etc). Joel has been dedicated to improving the lives of seniors for many years - with his wife, Susan, who is a gerontologist and an attorney specializing in elder law.

While Joel (a member of Kiwanis) is primarily focused on marketing to Baby Boomers and seniors, Susan help seniors with their legal affairs, health care options, financial planning, etc. She also helps their family members to determine when it might be appropriate to consider assisted living or a nursing home, with a goal to keep them in their own home as long as possible.

Susan conducts free seminars on elder care and will be holding one at the Irvine Hilton on Saturday, October 23, 9 am - 12 noon (register at 1-800-301-1326).

Joel and Susan live in Redondo Beach with their four children.

Irvine Schools

by Ray Sanford

Gavin Huntley-Fenner, PH.D. and a member of the Irvine Unified School Board, presented us with an update on what's happening with our local schools. While doing so, he gave us some tidbits about why being involved with education is so important to him. He started his education in Guyana where he used a slate to write. From there to the United States and receiving a PH.D. in Brain and Cognitive Sciences from MIT, his research in language and mathematics learning, his present focus has been how to best prepare children for future opportunities. The competitive nature of our present world means that children need to prepare earlier than ever in order to succeed.

He stressed that the Irvine schools are near the top nationally in both efficiency of operations as well as scholarship. He lauded the current faculty and administration for their dedication to the children as well as their initiative and creativity in doing more with less.

The State of the Irvine Schools

by Mody Gorsky

Our speaker this Wednesday will be Gavin Huntley-Fenner, Ph.D. from the Irvine Unified School Board. Gavin joined the Irvine Unified School Board in 2005. His doctorate is in Brain and Cognitive Sciences from MIT and his research involves language and mathematics learning. He is the parent of two children, both of whom are currently in the district. He is an accomplished and effective board member and a recognized leader on the local, statewide and national level.

Gavin served as an Irvine Unified school board trustee since 2005. He served as Board President (2008-2009), and Board Clerk/Vice President (2007-2008). Gavin will discuss the "State of the Irvine Schools." He will be speaking about where we are now and some upcoming challenges and plans. Although he is currently running for re-election, he promised to not make it a "campaign" speech.

High School Students Share RYLA Experience

Every year, the Irvine Spectrum Rotary Club sponsors three local high school students to participate in the annual District 5320 RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) 3-day camp in Idyllwild, CA.

As Rotary's leadership program for young people, RYLA emphasizes leadership, citizenship, team work, compassionate, and personal growth.



This year we selected three students from Woodbridge High School in Irvine: Melissa May, Natalie Aronson, and Heather Haney. They were all juniors at the time they attended RYLA with 300+ other high school juniors sponsored by Rotary District 5320 clubs. All three RYLA participants are all leaders, both at school and in the community. Natalie (a twin) will be the ASB (Associated Student Body) President in the coming school staring in Sept 2010 and is active in cross county. Melissa (a triplet!) will be Senior Class President, and has been an active member in the National Charity League (NCL), a mother/daughter service organization. Heather is a member of the Rotary Interact Club and will be Captain of the Cheer Squad at Woodbridge again her senior year.

The students provided highlights of their RYLA experience, including:
• Being separated from each other the minute they stepped on the bus
• Joining "families' for the remainder of camp (for which they created names, logos, cheers, etc)
• Being led blindfold into an (unknown) dining room and being fed (building trust)
• The "Boojum Experience" including navigating a rope "spider web" suspended from high trees (overcoming fear, team coordination)
• Excellent speakers, including a Rotarian who came from a troubled life and promotes "being fully present" in everything you do in life
• Fun and fellowship around the bonfire and forming strong friendships in such a short period of time

They all enjoyed the RYLA experience tremendously, increasing their self confidence, learning how to immediately connect with strangers, and gaining practical leadership skills. They all credited RYLA for gaining a deepening understanding of what Rotary International is about and stands for.

They expressed their interest and support in re-initiating the Interact Club at Woodbridge High this year by inviting, including, and educating their school peer of Rotary service projects and activities, initially through word of mouth, later through broadening understanding of Rotary function and impact in our local and global society.

We wish them a wonderful Senior year at Woodbridge, success with their college education and careers - and encourage them to remain in the Rotary family!

For more information about RYLA, please click on the link: http://www.rotary.org/en/StudentsAndYouth/YouthPrograms/RotaryYouthLeadershipAwards(RYLA)/Pages/ridefault.aspx

About RYLA

Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is Rotary's leadership training program for young people. RYLA participants can be ages 14-30, but most clubs and districts choose to focus on a narrower age range, such as 14-18 or 19-30.

RYLA emphasizes leadership, citizenship, and personal growth, and aims to
• Demonstrate Rotary's respect and concern for youth
• Provide an effective training experience for selected youth and potential leaders
• Encourage leadership of youth by youth
• Recognize publicly young people who are rendering service to their communities

S'More Fun at the Beach

by Gillian Bradshaw

Hooray for Cisca's Annual Beach Party at Dana Point (Lifeguard Station #7 - staked out at 6 am by Cisca who drove her truck with a big trailer with tables, chairs, lanterns, firewood… you name it - she has this down to a fine art!).
 
The early birds enjoyed fun at the beach, including Cisca's nephews, Ian and Griffin who spent lots of time in the water ( swimming, digging to China,etc.). The sun came out around noon to the joy of the sunbathers .
 
Most people arrived in the late afternoon - Bret & Natalie, Woody & Deana; Austin and Barbara, Ray, Tony, Richard & Joanne; Mark Brubaker, Susan and their son and Gillian & Robin. It was also nice to see former member Carl Balzanti and Valerie. 
 
Ray took charge of the grilling and there was an amazing variety of meat brought by several people, a wonderful foccacia garlic bread, lots of salads and other accoutrements - delicious! Of course, the best part of the day was sitting around the fire after dark (in our Snowball Express caps!), listening to the waves and toasting our marshmallows over the fire to make S'mores - yum!
 
By 10 pm (beach closing time) everything was packed up (again, under Cisca's direction, with everything in its exact spot - and tied down with bungee cords) and off she went. Having left the remaining wood for another group to enjoy, Gillian and Robin noticed, as they were driving off, that our neighbors had taken it and thrown it all on the fire at the same time - I am sure it lit up the whole of Dana Point!
 
Thanks to Cisca for this massive undertaking - and here's to "S'more" great beach parties in the years to come!

American Heart Association

Our speaker this week will be Katie Oakman from the American Heart Association (AHA). Katie has been with the AHA for almost two years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication Studies from Westmont College. She is a Business Development Director for the AHA. Katie works with companies to create a culture of health and wellness in the workplace. She also partners with these companies and individuals in the community to form teams and raise funds through the Start! OC Heart Walk. Currently in its 30th year, the Heart Walk promotes physical activity and celebrates heart disease and stroke survivors while raising critical funds for the AHA.

Women's Cancer Research Foundation

Our speaker this week is Carlina Thomas — Executive Director from The Women's Cancer Research Foundation (WCRF). WCRF is dedicated to improving the cure rates of women with gynecologic cancer through strategic clinical research and community-based educational outreach.

Carlina came to the WCRF with a proven track record in nonprofit leadership. She has served as president of the California Waste Association, the City of Huntington Beach Neighborhood Watch Program, and the Dr. Ralph E. Hawes Parent Teacher Association (PTA). She also chaired several education related and community-wide committees, ran for school board, and in her free time serves as a dedicated volunteer for both Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a Marketing emphasis from California State University, Long Beach. Since that time her professional background includes years of successful environmental consulting sales management and national account development experience with Fortune 500 Companies generating annual sales in the millions.

Breaking the Traditional Mold

Our Speaker this week will be Rabbi/Cantor Osnat Margalith and being a woman Rabbi, she will be speaking about "Breaking the Traditional Mold".

Rabbi Margalith was born in Israel and raised in an Orthodox Israeli family. She holds two ordinations as well as a Masters degree in Sacred Music and a Masters degree in Rabbinic Studies, all by the Academy for Jewish Religion (AJR-CA). Rabbi Margalith is a member of the Cantors Assembly – the Conservative Cantors’ Association; serves as a community chaplain for OC Jewish Family Services and as a result of her interfaith outreach in Orange County was asked to join the faith leaders’ advisory board of OCICE – Orange County Interfaith Coalition for the Environment.

She has been active and served as a board member of Conservative synagogues in Tampa, Florida and in Orange County as well as in numerous Jewish organizations, day schools and Adult Education and programming such as the Community Scholar Program of Orange County. Rabbi Margalith, a graduate of Case Western Reserve University in Ohio, received her BA in Comparative Literature and Languages as well as a Masters of Science in Library Science (MSLS).

As a congregational spiritual leader, Rabbi Margalith is looking to make a difference in people’s lives; to provide transformative moments through liturgy and music.

Rabbi Margalith is married to Dr. Avi Margalith and lives in Irvine. They are blessed with three wonderful sons: Guy (a Foreign Service Officer), Gurie (a CPA), Ben (an actor and MFA student). This October, Rabbi Margalith will have the pleasure of officiating at the wedding of her children Gurie and Tiffany Leia.

Attorney Michael Fell - Adovate for Victims Rights

Michael Fell is a former Orange County Senior Deputy District Attorney with over 18 years experience as a prosecutor and over two years experience as a civil litigator who has been dedicated to victims rights his entire career. Mr. Fell has been recognized for his commitment to victims, including, but not limited to the awards listed below:

Ambassador of Peace Award (2003) for his work with victims of hate crimes and in developing a tolerance program for youth (TURN - Teaching Understanding respect and Non-violence)

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Diligent Prosecutor Award (1995, 1996, 2006) for his work with DUI victims and prosecuting DUI cases

Victim Witness Assistance Program Recognition Award for his diligent work with crime victims.

Mr. Fell currently represents the Adenhart, Pearson, Stewart and Wilhite families in the criminal prosecution of the Defendant, Andrew Gallo) under Marsy’s law. (Former Angel MLB pitcher Nick Adenhart, Henry Pearson and Courtney Stewart were killed and Jon Wilhite was seriously injured after they were hit by Mr. Gallo, a drunk driver, on April 9, 2009)

Wounded Warriors at the Angels Game

Saturday, July 31, 2010, was a special Rotary day at the Angel’s baseball game.

Irvine Spectrum did their best to create the best chili the O.C. has to offer. I think we did rather well but the judges gave us a 4th place. It is kind of like a “kissing your sister” award. I know the judging was stacked but we all had a gas.

Our great chili chicks were Dianne Braasch, Joan Sarver and Cisca Stellhorn. Our event planner was Ray Benedictus who is now an official cat herder.

The event was great for District 5320 and our fight against polio.

The Irvine Spectrum Rotary Club had twelve special guests. Six US Marines attended the event. They were members of the School of Infantry at Camp Pendleton, CA.

Three special Marines and their ladies enjoyed our hospitality. They were members of the Wounded Warrior Battalion at Camp Pendleton.

We were fortunate to have these Marines, one sergeant and two lance corporals, tell us their personal stories. All of them sustained significant injuries while serving in defense of this nation, and have also have worked tirelessly with their loved ones through their individual recovery process. For this and so many more reasons, they are heroes.

Each of these Marines did what Marines have done since November 10, 1775. They have answered the call to watch over the flock. They are part of the reason we were able to enjoy a Saturday afternoon with friends, eating chili and attending a baseball game.

Past District Governor Allan Stark sat near these Wounded Warriors and had a chance to visit. PDG Stark was a Navy Corpsman prior to becoming a doctor. He is my hero.

Your club can support the Wounded Warrior Battalion and help make a difference in the lives of our injured warriors.

Should you wish to support these warriors please feel free to contact Rick Topping.

"Semper Fi" and "Service Above Self." What a combination.

Rotary and Angels team up against Polio

On Saturday, July 31, several of our members participated in the the District's 3rd annual polio fundraiser at Angel Stadium. Rotary's #1 mission, in conjunction with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is to eradicate polio worldwide, by vaccinating every child in the countries that still have this crippling virus.

The event started with a fun tailgate party (and more fund-raising) - a chili cook off contest! Cisca Stellhorn, Diane Braasch, and Joan Sarver cooked and served a variety of home made chili dishes (Joan's "Kick Ass Chili" was my personal favorite, with Diane's milder but very meaty "Chicago" a close second - and Cisca's turkey one not far behind). I know we got a lot of votes, and hopefully we won, but the winning was in the socializing we all did!

For the non-chili lovers, Ray Benedicktus put on his apron and got out his barbecue tongs, making delicious hamburgers and hot dogs - as if having arranged for all the ticket and T-shirt sales wasn't enough - thanks Ray!

We were honored to have a group of Marines from the Wounded Warriors battalion join us with their family/girlfriends - thanks to the coordination of former Marine, Rick Topping. With several former Marines in our club, this is one of the primary organizations we support - not only with donations and other funding, but with as much "hands on" participation as we can. It was a pleasure to meet these brave soldiers who sacrificed their health for our nation's safety and freedom - we thank them and wish them a speedy recovery!

This was also a Birthday party for Mary Mar, who came to celebrate with both her families (her own, including her cute granddaughters, and her Rotary family!). We sang Happy Birthday and ate delicious cake!

Our youngest "future Rotarian", John Lincoln Alcorn was there - all dressed up in his Angels outfit - and learing how to party with his Rotary family at the ripe old age of 102 days!

Several others were there, including Ed Hardenburgh, Dale Ford and his son, Austin and Barbara Wall, Randy and Pam Woods, Mark and Susan Brubaker, Tony Mucia and his daughter Megan, Woody and Deana Jones, Ray B's girlfriend and son Ian, Cisca's nephews, Diane's daughter, and our esteemed past District Governor Bret Gerdes and Natalie (am I missing anyone?!)

Then it was off to the game - and prime seating on the Club level (with in-seat service all evening long). While the game wasn't all that thrilling (except for the Angels home run with the fireworks - but they lost 1-2 to the Texas Rangers), a fun time was had by all - and all for a good cause!

Roll on our 4th Annual Angels event for polio in 2011!

Michael Fell to speak at Irvine Spectrum Rotary Club

Michael Fell is a former Orange County Senior Deputy District Attorney with over 18 years experience as a prosecutor and over two years experience as a civil litigator who has been dedicated to victims rights his entire career. Mr. Fell has been recognized for his commitment to victims, including, but not limited to the awards listed below:

Ambassador of Peace Award (2003) for his work with victims of hate crimes and in developing a tolerance program for youth (TURN - Teaching Understanding respect and Non-violence);

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Diligent Prosecutor Award (1995, 1996, 2006) for his work with DUI victims and prosecuting DUI cases;

Victim Witness Assistance Program Recognition Award for his diligent work with crime victims.

Mr. Fell currently represents the Adenhart, Pearson, Stewart and Wilhite families in the criminal prosecution of the Defendant, Andrew Gallo under Marsy’s law. (Nick Adenhart (former Angels MLB pitcher, Henry Pearson and Courtney Stewart were killed and Jon Wilhite was seriously injured after they were hit by Mr. Gallo, a drunk driver, on April 9, 2009)

Accordingly, he will be speaking about victim advocacy and his work with Marcy's law.

Presenting Romanians to the world

by Gillian Bradshaw

Alex Ureche, a member of the Costa Mesa Rotary club, talked about a project he is championing in rural Romania, to provide a sound education for disadvantaged children, giving them the literacy, English, and communication skills to help them "change the things they can" and present to the world".

Having worked with local workmen, parents and volunteers in the village to build a school, Alex collaborated with Rotary clubs in the US and Romania to obtain a Rotary Matching Grant to create a multi-media center in the school so the children can learn about the world via the internet. He also works with city students to gain leadership skills by interacting and helping to educate the rural children.

Other projects have included dental screenings (much like the ones our Rotary club helps with in Ensenada), Christmas shopping excursions, and a mobile library (that could also serve as a dental van).

It is always interesting to learn about how much difference Rotarians make in the lives of others - thanks Alex!

Paul Harris "Plus" Rotary Foundation pins awarded to four members

by Gillian Bradshaw

Congratulations and thanks to Kris Khurana, Mary Mar, Austin Wall, and Marla Noel for their generous contributions to The Rotary Foundation.

This is how Rotary International obtains funding for global projects, where clubs partner up on projects to provide water, healthcare, education and much more to those in need.

All four of these individuals received "plus" pins, joining many of our other members who have received these awards. When a donation of $1000 is made to the Foundation, that person becomes a Paul Harris Fellow. For every $1,000 after that, they receive a "Paul Harris Plus" pin. Several of our members are at least at the Plus 4 level!

Last year, the Irvine Spectrum Rotary Club was #2 in the District for per capita giving, and we are working on becoming the #1 club this year!

Thanks to our dedicated members for helping to make this happen!

Gillian's demotion party success

By Past President Gillian Bradshaw

Hello to my "former subjects"!

Greetings from Providence, RI - appropriate location since Providence is "the power sustaining and guiding human destiny" which is what we Rotarians are trying to do ... and of course RI is not only the abbreviation for Rhode Island ...?! Providence indeed!

Anyway, my Demotion party was absolutely BRILLIANT! THANK YOU!

I was "shaken, not stirred" by our very own Tom Bond (a hair-raising experience!) - thank you so much to Tom and his beautiful wife, Sonya - our hosts at Mahony Castle!

What a tremendous honor to have our "Queen of the District" Johrita in attendance, along with her husband, and her "XOs" Rae and Roy, as well as others from the District - I hope you will join us at many more events! I can't wait to see what Mark Brubaker (or was that"Mike?!) cooks up for Mody next year!

I'm glad that Bret still has his head on his shoulders after surviving his year as DG, though I guess he knew he was going to as "Priceless" Shapiro had managed to!

And Mody --- thanks for toning it down a little -- I know you had wanted to do some outrageous things that would not befit a new President! Seriously, though, I know you have been planning this for months - now you can relax (oh no, you can't - you have to run 52 meetings, 12 Board meetings, attend President's Dinners .... and so much more - and all so much fun!).

I'm not lying when I say I was "speechless" when I saw the video Randy created - I can't wait to have a copy! I love Rowan Atkinson and Monty Python and do indeed try to "always look on the bright side of life! I can't wait to show it (and the flyer) to my family in England next month! They may be having second thoughts about where I chose to emigrate?!

Speaking of lies ... er ... spies ... I think Austin (no, not that Austin as in Wall) Powers aka Tony Murcia has to win the prize for best costume and performance! Yeah baby!

Rick Topping - it is a rare person who can pull Robin away from a camping weekend or yoga retreat - well done - and thanks for getting him to our wedding on time as our best man! And also for inviting your goddaughter, Caroline, and her sister Sarah and husband Kevin - I can't think of a better way for us to have a family gathering! And, of course, without you, I wouldn't have joined ISRC!!

Al, I was honored to be initiated into the Jewish ... er ... what was that .... todaraba and Shalom for that!

Diane, it was such fun to have you part of the party rather than sweating it out in the kitchen!! I bet you can make a mean Shepherd's pie and trifle, though?! The ringlets did indeed save buying another wig - and your role in the skit was very clever.

And the other "jesters at court" were very amusing too - Mark, Dale, Barry, Al, Vicki, Mody, Tom, Rick .... who have I missed?!

Luana - as always, clever decorations and "sweets" - I loved the tea bag flowers, and "anyone for coffee, Mate?!"

And Kathy, because I know you had a big hand in all of this, party-giver supreme!

The food was delicious! Very authentic indeed - I thought the caterer might have been The Olde Ship, but Robin thought not?! Scrumptious!

It was great to see so many members, and so many guests!

Bob, Becky, and Dan - it was so nice that you could join us too!

Oh, I could go on all night (actually, I have gone on all night - it is 4 am in Rhode Island!), and I am sorry if I missed anyone!

So I will bid you adieu and leave you singing "Always look on the bright side of life" because that's what this Rotary family makes me do!

Thanks again a "gillian" times!

Gillian

Anaheim over the years

by Ray Sanford

Anaheim native Steve Faessel gave a fascinating history of Anaheim and Orange County, complete with photos of the early years.

Faessel served on the Orange County Historical Commission until June 2006. Faessel served on the Commission’s Editorial Board for the republishing of the Orange County history, 100 Years of Yesterdays. He has served as the Commission’s Chair for the 2000 and 2001 terms.

He is a volunteer researcher for the Anaheim Public Library in the Elizabeth Schultz Local History Room. In addition to being the Anaheim Public Utility Department’s unofficial Historian, he has written a number of articles on Anaheim including his recently published illustrated local history books for Arcadia Publishing, Early Anaheim, and Anaheim: 1940-2007. In addition to these, Faessel recently completed a large format illustrated history of Anaheim for Turner Publishing: Historic Photos of Anaheim. A new small-format book for Turner Publishing: Recalling Anaheim has just been published.

The two Tony(i)s

Tony Murcia gave up his red badge this week in exchange for a blue one from Toni Thomas.

Congratulations, Tony

Haiti Clinic

By Ray Sanford

The program this week was about the Dental Care for Children project in Haiti. Rotarian Austin Wall, DDS and Chuck Tozzer, DDS traveled to Les Cayes, Haiti to hold a dental clinic for orphaned children.

You can see the photos here.

Irvine Dental Screenings

By Ray Sanford

The Irvine Dental Screenings project went off without a hitch on Saturday.

We set a new record. We saw 126 kids — 40% more than last year!

Dr. Tozzer and Dr. Wall were both from Dental Care for Children and have participated every year since the inception of this program. Amazingly, they'd just returned from doing several clinics in Haiti! 

You can learn more about the work Dental Care for Children does at  http://www.dentalcareforchildren.org

The Assisteens, as usual, were organized, efficient and in control. Kudos to Tricia and Lizzie, who planned, scheduled and trained the young women so well there were no hiccups. Great work!

Our veteran school nurses had everything ready to go and kept all the forms, kids and parents organized. I'm sure it was like herding cats at times, but it never showed.

School Board member Dr. Gavin Huntley-Fenner dropped by for a visit so we put him to work being a dental assistant to Dr. Tozzer. It's no wonder the IUSD runs so well with people like Gavin on the board.

Goodies and coffee were provided by Todd Wardlaw at The Corner Bakery in The Marketplace. Many thanks for their continued support. Please patronize Corner Bakery and let them know how much you appreciate their support.

Photos of the event are here.

U.S. Coast Guard - Terrorist Watch

The U.S. Coast Guard paid a visit to the Irvine Spectrum Rotary Club to inform the members and guests about the potential for terrorism, specifically to the Los Angeles and San Pedro ports. Coast Guard officer, Commander Matlin and Auxiliary Coast Guard member, Captain Jacobs (also the former president of the Whittier Rotary Club) spoke about the importance of civilian vigilance in keeping an eye on the 95,000 miles of shoreline, 300 thousand square miles of waterway, 6,000 bridges and 361 ports of call in the United States.

Captain Jacobs shared the need for everyone out on the water to work as partners in fighting terrorism via small crafts and boats. Captain Jacobs also displayed the primary goals of terrorism: to weaken and disrupt daily life and cause a nation to live in fear. He also stated that since 9/11 many Americans have lived with their heads in the sand, refusing to recognize the threat of terrorism.

America shares three international borders with Canada, Mexico and Russia (via Alaska), making the U.S. a target for small vessels, which provide access to IEDs, weapons of mass destruction, small arms, biological and nuclear weapons. Jacobs stated, “We need to develop the Israeli / British mind-set toward terrorism – it is part of our life.” In addition, the U.S. needs to develop a fast recovery that defeats the terrorist objectives, as terrorists gain power by disrupting our way of life. As we found out this past weekend, there are individuals here who wish to do Americans harm.

“Trust your gut,” says Jacobs. After viewing a short movie and message from the Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, Jacobs gave the Club the following number to call if anyone sees suspicious activity in the water: 877-24WATCH. However, if you see something very concerning, call 911. For more information on how you can be a partner with the U.S. Coast Guard go to: http://www.uscg.mil/top/missions/M_Security.asp

Blue Badges at Fairhaven Memorial

by Ray Sanford


Ray Benedicktus, Lisa Grajewski and Randy Woods receive their blue badges from Toni and Mody.

Three club members received their blue badges during our club's offsite visit to Fairhaven Memorial hosted by club member Marla Noel.

We all got a tour of both the public and private areas to see just what goes on "behind the scenes." Even though they are busy, they made sure our members didn't see actual cases. [whew!]

What a lot of members didn't know is the huge amount of talented people with very specialized knowledge it takes to run an organization of this size. Fairhaven employes almost 90 full time staff. Their counselors are trained in both the religious and cultural aspects involved in the loss of a loved one and how to honor their life.

Working Wardrobes

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Working Wardrobes. Founded by Jerri Rosen Working Wardrobes provides assistance to men and women in difficult situations who benefit from receiving help in preparing for interviews and new jobs. Several organizations throughout Orange County work as a referral source for the organization.

Entering the program, Working Wardrobe clients receive a six-week course, that provides insight into the interview process and preparation for new employment. In addition, clients receive three outfits, personal grooming tips and a “new look.” As of this 20th anniversary, Working Wardrobes has transformed over 50,000 lives.

In addition to providing training and resources Working Wardrobes has three thrift shops in Brea, Laguna Niguel, and Tustin. All of these shops, along with community donations, benefit the organization. The shops take in clothing that is not necessarily appropriate for job interviews. Ninety percent of proceeds from the shops go to funding Working Wardrobes.

Another source of income is “Ladies Night Out.” These nights can be arranged with The Hanger shops and are a great way to get together with friends and raise money for Working Wardrobes at the same time!

If you would like to donate your gently worn clothing to Working Wardrobes, bring it to Rotary club meetings and let Al know!