Las Vegas Rotary Club Weekly Speaker

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Las Vegas Rotary Club Weekly Speaker

Founded in 1923

  1. 109

    Past Presidents' Review

    The Wheel for February 20, 2020 Listen to Past President&#8217;s Review The Wheel Download Past Presidents&#8217; Review Caty Crockett 1995-1996 Tom A. Thomas 1999-2000 James E. Hunt 2001-2002 Brock Fraser 2006-2007 Randy Campanale 2007-2008 Russ Swain 2008-2009 Karen Whisenhunt 2009-2010 Sharon McNair 2011-2012 Randy Donald 2012-2013 Steve Linder 2014-2015 Michael Gordon 2017-2018 James Kohl 2018-2019 Message From The President Dear Rotarians, I am quoting from History.com “Presidents Day is an American holiday celebrated on the third Monday in February; Presidents Day 2020 occurs on Monday, February 17. Originally established in 1885 in recognition of President George Washington, the holiday became popularly known as Presidents Day after it was moved as part of 1971’s Uniform Monday Holiday Act, an attempt to create more three-day weekends for the nation’s workers. While several states still have individual holidays honoring the birthdays of Washington, Abraham Lincoln and other figures, Presidents Day is now popularly viewed as a day to celebrate all U.S. presidents, past and present.” Yes, while we celebrate all US Presidents on this day, I remember when the nation and my home state celebrated both Presidents Washington and Lincoln separately. The story of President’s Day date begins in 1800. Following the death of George Washington in 1799, his February 22 birthday became a perennial day of remembrance. At the time of his death, Washington was the most important individual in American history. To further commemorate our Nation’s first President, the building of the Washington Monument in 1848 and the centennial of his birth in 1882, were national celebrations. Our nation’s 16th President, Abraham Lincoln is widely celebrated by the States. Guiding our fractured nation during our most difficult time, the Civil War, President Lincoln freed the Southern slaves and saved the Union. Washington and Lincoln still remain the two most recognized leaders, but Presidents Day is now popularly seen as a day to recognize the lives and achievements of all of America’s chief executives. Some lawmakers have objected to this view, arguing that grouping George Washington and Abraham Lincoln together with less successful presidents minimizes their legacies. Politicians arguing? No, can’t be! In its modern form, Presidents Day is used by many patriotic and historical groups as a date for staging celebrations, reenactments and other events. A number of states also require that their public schools spend the days leading up to Presidents Day teaching students about the accomplishments of the presidents, often with a focus on the lives of Washington and Lincoln. I and I guess many of you are very happy to know this piece of information. Here is a bit of trivia about President’s Day: Did you know? President&#8217;s Day never falls on the actual birthday of any American president. Four chief executives, George Washington, William Henry Harrison, Abraham Lincoln and Ronald Reagan, were born in February, but their birthdays all come either too early or late to coincide with Presidents Day, which is always celebrated on the third Monday of the month. Well, three-day weekends are always welcome as the passage of the Uniform Holiday Act in 1968 gave us this and several others throughout the calendar year. Only Independence Day, July 4th and Veteran’s Day, November 11th remain on the actual day. We are today, celebrating the Past Presidents of the Las Vegas Rotary Club. Please be ready to be amazed at what has been accomplished over the many years of the Greatest Rotary Club in The World! Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights Ted McAdam started our meeting with the invocation. President Jackie presented our speaker Kimberly Mull with our Share What You Can Award. President Jackie and Melanie presented PHF recognition to Jaime Goldsmith +3 and PP Russ Swain +8. President Jackie, Toni Kern and Janet Lencke congratulated Dan Adamson on winning our raffle. PP Mary Ann Avnet and her husband Steve visited from New Jersey. PP Kathy Dalvey and her son Max joined for lunch. PP Karen Whisenhunt and Max announced the soccer match dates. PP Jim Hunt and Sergeant At Arms Deb Granda discussed the next cigar social. Melanie Muldowney our Rotary Foundation Director presented Paul Harris Fellowships to our past member Bob Barnard’s wife Yoko and son Larry. Marie Walsh gave us the breakfast with books update. Jerry Engel and his Valentine Diane led us with a Love song. Bill Stieren missed the Joker with a 2 of diamonds. The pot grows on. Barbara Billitzer won the Lawry&#8217;s bucks. At President Jackie’s head table were Carey Grohs, her husband Chuck and our speaker Kimberly Mull. Scribe &#8211; February 13, 2020 February 13, 2020 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order. Ted McAdam gave the invocation. Jerry Engel led the club in singing “To My Valentine”, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Deb Granda was the Sergeant-At-Arms. We had 0 visiting International Rotarians, 4 visiting Rotarians and 19 Guests of Rotarians were introduced. The weekly drawing began at ­­­­­­­­­$4573 plus this week’s donations. The ticket winner was Bill Stieren who doubled his money. Barbara Billitzer won the Lawry’s Bucks. President Jackie Thornhill announcements/reminders: International Convention held in Hawaii in June 6-10 an is filling up quickly District Conference is in in Pasadena. Registration is open. They are celebrating their 100th People of Action Campaign is ongoing. Please send photos to President Jackie. Your quarterly and monthly contributions help fund programs keep our projects moving. Please consider donating to the permanent fund. Remember to recycle Wheels and tickets. Foundation Match active-club will match up to 500 points. Please help Rose Falocco 25 Club Secretary by signing up in the green book for weekly duties. Please keep the green book moving QR code helps you sign up online. President Jackie Thornhill and Melanie Muldowney Presented the Barnard Family three Barnard Legacy Paul Harris’. Larry Barnard shared how much the LV Rotary meant to his family and his gratitude. We thanked the family for their $2000+ donation to the Las Vegas Rotary Foundation. Melanie Muldowney Shared info on Foundation matching period. Great time to move up to the next Paul Harris level. Presented Paul Harris +8 to Russ Swain and +3 to Jaime Goldsmith. Shannon Brown from Beckley ES invited us to Nevada Reading Week festivities look for an email to follow with details. Thanked the club for the career day support. Marie Walsh shared that the students read 410 Books this month. Rosalee Hedrick New member orientation was held Feb 11th 6PM at Deb Granda’s home. Thanks to Deb for hosting. Great turnout with about 30 members attending to welcome 6 new members. 25 Club President Carey Grohs 25 Club Social coming up on Feb 25th 6PM at the Neon Museum-Lights will be displayed beautifully. Tickets $40 with $10 supporting Destiny’s Rescue. Please sign up. 25 Club Members passed out roses to all the ladies in attendance. Karen Whisenhunt Mayor’s Cup 10,000 children between 14-19 that attend. German players have arrived. Max Dalvey helped with German pronunciation of the team name and asked for support at Saturday’s games in James Regional Park. Deb Granda ARC Blood Drive Feb 28th 10 AM-3:30 PM sign up in the green book or at redcrossblood.org code: Rotary donors receive $25 in Lawry’s Bucks. Still need a minimum of 6 more donors. Past President Jim Hunt 21st Patrick’s Cigar Social Friday March 13th 6 PM bring 3 Cigars $10 goes to the Foundation. More details in The Wheel to follow. Bill Houghton Director of Youth Advocacy for LV Rotary. Support needed for RYLA Weekend March 20-22 in CA hosting 15 students. Need 13 more facilitators for the weekend. Need interviewers as well. Kathy Dalvey asked for participation in the upcoming District Conference May 1-3 at the Pasadena Westin. Pasadena Club is hosting and celebrating their 100th Room rates $169 and to purchase all the meals $240. Janice Lencke Valentines basket raffle including 2 tickets to KA valued at $375 to Dan Adamson. 25 Club President Carey Grohs presented our speaker Kimberly Mull of Kimberly Mull Advocacy and Consulting. A new member of the Las Vegas community and an example how you can take a life experience and use it to make a difference. As a child she suffered abuse and has powered through those experiences to achieve a career in advocating for victims of abuse and sex trafficking . Currently working to influence policy makers and legislation in creating victim focused policies. If you would like to connect with Kimberly find her online: kimberlymull.com President Jackie Thornhill presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for February 20, 2020 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    Kimberly Mull - Advancing Response to Violence

    The Wheel for February 13, 2020 Listen to Kimberly Mull &#8211; Advancing Response to Violence The Wheel Download Kimberly Mull &#8211; Advancing Response to Violence  The victim of domestic child sex trafficking between the ages of 11 and 13, as well as domestic violence and multiple sexual assaults, Kimberly is a survivor turned advocate. She holds her Masters in Victim Services Management and utilizes her more than a decade of experience working with victims of violence against women, including over 400 sex trafficking victims, to influence policy makers and legislators in creating trauma informed victim focused policy. Kimberly founded KMAC after a trauma inducing employer led to her realization that not all non-profits or mission oriented organizations are actually supportive of survivors working in the anti-violence field. Seeing the need in the corporate world, she wanted to create a survivor owned company that understands the intersectionality of business and victimization, develop practical solutions for employers and employees, and help foster a greater understanding for everyone in the #MeToo era. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, Our club has made such an impact on our community and the world through our contributions to our local Las Vegas Rotary Foundation and the Rotary International Foundation. Today I wish to follow up on the ways our club can qualify for the 100% Every Rotarian Every Year (EREY) banner. Melanie Muldowney presented this information last week. The details: By considering what I am writing about, we can qualify for the Presidential Citation as well as the banner mentioned. We have already met the requirement of $100 per capita, which means our club contributions to the Rotary International Foundation annual fund averages more than $100. Check that box &#x2714;. The other requirement for the banner is that each club member contribute a minimum of $25 to the annual fund. This is where we are a little short. If you are giving to our local Foundation, thank you so much. If you are considering applying to receive you initial PHF or upgrade a level during our club match, this will qualify. If, you are not considering at this time, would you consider just giving $25 to the International Foundation? We are also about to achieve our yearly goal of contributions to the International Foundation. Another checkbox&#x2714; for the Presidential Citation that your contributions will help achieve as well! Three goals achieved with a single contribution!! The many projects of our International Foundation are too numerous to list here. Please go to rotary.org and click on Foundation to know just how our money is being spent. Here is just a small sampling of how your contribution will help our International Foundation with its work. For as little as 60 cents, a child can be protected from polio. $50 can provide clean water to help fight waterborne illness. $500 can launch an antibullying campaign and create a safe environment for children. Since it was founded more than 100 years ago, the Foundation has spent more than $4 billion on life-changing, sustainable projects. Here is a breakdown of grants issued during fiscal year 2018 in the RI areas of focus. We can really use your help. Please consider making a $25 donation. &nbsp; &nbsp; Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights Tina Bishop led us in song. Sergeant at Arms Chase Carter posed with Rosalee Hedrick. Rosalee Hedrick brought us up to date on our membership drive and upcoming orientation. Renee Gamero announced our upcoming 25 Club social at the Neon Museum. President Jackie presented our speaker Theresa Bower with our Share What You Can Award. PP Michael Gordon gave the invocation. PP Jim Tucker missed his chance at the Joker by pulling a 6 of Hearts. New member Janna Velasco won the Lawry&#8217;s Bucks. Janice Lencke announced our annual fundraiser. Carey Grohs announced the 25 Club project Destiny Rescue Birthday imposters were recognized by President Jackie with a contribution fine. At President Jackie’s head table were her friend Brenda Brown, Dr Andy Kuniyuki and our speaker Theresa Bower. At our birthday table were Bob Werner, Murray visiting from Canada, and Pete Samuolis. A Group shot of the membership…..except the photographer. Scribe &#8211; February 6, 2020 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order. PP Michael Gordon gave the invocation. Tina Bishop led the club in singing “You’re a Grand Ole Flag”, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Chase Carter was the Sergeant-At-Arms. We had 1 visiting International Rotarian, 5 visiting Rotarians and 4 Guests of Rotarians were introduced. The weekly drawing began at ­­­­­­­­­$4367 plus this week’s donations. The ticket winner was Jim Tucker who had the chance to draw the Jack. Janna Velasco won the Lawry’s Bucks. President Jackie Thornhill announcements/reminders: International Convention held in Hawaii in June 6-10 District Conference is in in Pasadena. Registration is open. They are celebrating their 100th People of Action Campaign is ongoing. Please send photos to President Jackie. Your quarterly and monthly contributions help fund programs keep our projects moving. Please consider donating to the permanent fund. Remember to recycle Wheels and tickets. Foundation Match club will match 50% up to 500 points. Please help Rose Falocco 25 Club Secretary by signing up in the green book for weekly duties. Please keep the green book moving. RYLA is coming up so if please see Bill Houghton if you know a student who would like to participate. Melanie Muldowney Shared info on Foundation matching period. Great time to move up to the next Paul Harris level. Presidential Citation opportunity to be recognized with 100% EREY. Every Rotarian Every Year, contributing on average $100 each year to the Annual Fund Share with the RI Foundation. We meet the cumulative average if each member can kindly give a minimum of $25 to help the Club achieve this award. Ted McAdam announced the Birthday Table and led in singing Happy Birthday. After the celebration he also asked for interest in organizing a tour of Creech AFB. It will be an all-day bus trip with a boxed lunch included in a $50 ticket price. Tentative expectation of dates in May-June on a Tuesday. Rosalee Hedrick New member orientation Feb 11th 6PM at Deb Granda’s home. 6 new members to welcome. 25 Club President Carey Grohs shared that goal to raise $3,000 for Destiny’s Rescue a non-profit that rescues children from sex slavery. Please donate what you can. To make it easy you may sign up in the green book. Marie Walsh Reading Week is March 2-6th. Please look out for email from Beckley to make an appointment with the librarian. Rene Gamero shared Tuesday Feb 25th is upcoming 25 Club Social-to be held at the Neon Museum at 6 PM. Tickets are $40 with $10 from sales going to Destiny’s Rescue. Janice Lencke recognized the Presenting sponsor, Anderson, Miller Pinkelman for the Annual Fundraiser. Buy your tickets. Goal is 2 per member. Raffle for basket will be held Feb 13th. Event will have amazing food, open bar and gaming tables. Deb Granda ARC Blood Drive Feb 28th 10 AM-3:30 PM at Lawry’s. Sign up in the green book or at redcrossblood.org code: rotary. Donors receive $20 in Lawry’s Bucks Howie Hopkinson asked for participation in the upcoming District Conference May 1-3 at the Pasadena Westin. Pasadena Club is hosting and celebrating their 100th Register now online. Dr Andy Kuniyuki introduced our speaker Theresa Bower, Recruiter for 2020 Census. Theresa is a 20-year resident of Henderson and has an eclectic career history. She shared many interesting facts about the history of the Census. It is requirement of the Constitution of the United States to complete a census beginning in 1790. With a goal to count every person once and only once. Data is collected every ten years. Any private data collected is held confidentially and cannot be shared even the FBI or IRS. If you receive a census form and do not complete you may be fined. Response is easy via the telephone or online. It helps bring Federal funds into the state. If you know someone who may be interested in working for the 2020 Census, they can text Jobs2020 to 313131 and receive an application. President Jackie Thornhill presented our speaker with our “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting. We completed a group photo at request of the District Governor. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for February 13, 2020 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    Theresa Bower - 2020 Census

    The Wheel For February 6, 2020 Listen to Theresa Bower &#8211; 2020 Census The Wheel Download Theresa Bower &#8211; 2020 Census Theresa Bower is a Recruiter for the 2020 Census. She has lived in Henderson for 20 years. For 4 decades, Theresa has served successful businesses as a creative brand consultant, a past advisor for the Los Angeles SBA, a writer for Yahoo! and a seminar facilitator. She’s taught at several colleges, including CSN and Art Institute. In 2000, she worked as a Census Enumerator for the Non-Response Follow-up unit. Census data, collected every 10 years, determines representation in Congress and determines how funds are spent in each community on things like roads, and schools. The 2020 Census will use a new design that incorporates Online and phone response options in addition to the traditional paper option. Theresa will share with us the incredible importance of the 2020 Census, as it impacts each of us on a local level. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, The year is 2020 and you know what that means? The Federal Government must meet its Constitutional requirement to count “We the People.” “Census day was set at the first Monday in August 1790. Failure to cooperate with a marshal or assistant was punishable by a $20 fine. Today, the controlling law for the U.S. Census is Title 13 of the U.S. Code. The law requires that the census be conducted on or about April 1, 1980, and every ten years after that. The returns must be made available within nine months in order to apportion members of the House of Representatives to each of the states.” Ever since it seems that our representatives in Washington DC are counting on redistricting and additions of congressional districts that may affect the balance of power. This will potentially give some states more of a representative presence in Washington than others. It would appear that little has changed over the centuries. Politicians were, in the beginning, arguing and they still are! Over the centuries and decades some of the issues argued were, for example, asking about professions in 1790. A New Hampshire representative said his constituents had several professions depending on the season and that question would be confusing. Some representatives were concerned about the questions asked. Others felt more questions should be asked to get a better picture of the citizenry. So, every 10 years we are put through the paperwork again! When will the Census Bureau get in the 21st Century and let us answer online? Perhaps today’s speaker will answer this question and many more. The Title 13 law stated that the count conducted in 1980 and every ten years thereafter shall be an actual headcount. The count in the intervening years need not be an actual headcount but may use statistical sampling methods to get a reasonable approximation of a head count. Today, all persons are counted as whole persons — the original census counted &#8220;other persons&#8221; (slaves) as three-fifths persons for the purposes of apportionment. This fractionalization was removed by the 14th Amendment. The US Attorney General ruled in 1940 that there were no longer any Indians in the United States who could be classified as &#8220;not taxed.&#8221; In the Constitution, non-taxed Indians are not counted. So, as the population of the United States has changed over its 231 years, the census has had to change to meet its demands. As we enter into this census this year, politics has intervened once again as the question of citizenship is debated. We will learn today what the 2020 census is all about. What questions are in or out. How to become involved as Census takers. When will we be receiving our census questionnaires? Will Census takers be coming to our homes? What about the segment of the population that will refuse to participate? In 1790, the “not cooperating” fine was $20, a huge amount of money at the time. The final report of this year’s census will be very important to millions of people. We the people will be waiting to see how it will affect our lives and our country over the next decade. Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights Sergeant at Arms Judith Pinkerton photo bombed Rosalee Hedrick&#8217;s announcement of the new member orientation. Rose Falocco presented her invocation. President Jackie presented our speaker Kat Miller of Nevada Department of Veteran Services with our “Share What You Can Award”. President Jackie named Carey Grohs as Rotarian of the Month. PP Jim Kohl missed the Joker but doubled his money. Our speaker, Kat Miller of the Reno Central Rotary Club exchanged banners with President Jackie. Kathy Mahon announced her receiving a lifetime achievement award. John Ingeme won the Lawry&#8217;s Bucks. Jerry Engle on a ladder split the room in singing “God Bless America and America the Beautiful”. Deb Granda announced the need for members to participate in our Blood Drive. At President Jackie’s head table were Greg Maguire, PP Steve Linder and our speaker Kat Miller. Annie Nounna was joined for lunch by her best friend. Scribe &#8211; January 30, 2020 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: January 30, 2020 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order. Rose Falocco gave the invocation. Jerry Engel led the club in songs God Bless America/America the Beautiful. Kat Miller led the Four-Way test in a cadence. Judith Pinkerton was the Sergeant-At-Arms. We had 0 International Rotarians, 2 visiting Rotarians and 13 Guests of Rotarians were introduced. The weekly drawing began at $4101 plus this week’s donations. The ticket winner was PP Jim Kohl, had the chance to draw the Joker. John Ingeme won the Lawry’s Bucks. President Jackie Thornhill announcements/reminders: International Convention held in Hawaii in June 6-10 District Conference is in in Pasadena. Registration is open. They are celebrating their 100th year. People of Action Campaign is ongoing. Please send photos to President Jackie. Your quarterly and monthly contributions help fund programs keep our projects moving. Please consider donating to the permanent fund. Remember to recycle Wheels and tickets. 2-13 Annual Valentine Luncheon please sign up in the green book. Foundation Match club will match 50% up to 500 points. Jim Tucker update on football squares, numbers to be sent out via email. Bill Houghton Shared info on Rotaract and Interact growing involvement this year need a handful of Rotarians to get involved. President Jackie Thornhill Honored 25 Club President Carey Grohs as the Rotarian of the Month. 4 Rotarians graduated from 25 club this month. Rosalee Hedrick New member orientation Feb 11th 6PM at Deb Granda’s home. Marie Walsh Career day at Beckley ES will be held on Feb 7th info on participation reach out to Barbara @Beckley.  Toni Kern Purchase Annual Fundraiser tickets before the Valentines lunch 2/13. Win a basket with a romance theme, champagne, chocolate, activity tickets etc. Bill Houghton RYLA club is sponsoring 15 students this year if you know any 10th or 11th graders it’s a wonderful opportunity for leadership development. Deb Granda ARC Blood Drive Feb 28th 10 AM-3:30 PM sign up in the green book or at redcrossblood.org code: rotary donors receive $25 in Lawry’s Bucks. Kathy Mahon shared that she received an outstanding community contributor lifetime achievement award.  Dr Andy Kuniyuki presented the speaker Kat Miller, Director, Nevada Dept. of Veteran Services. Miller presented illuminating stats on Veterans. There are currently 19,998,799 million Vets. Their median age is 64. Their income is higher than the median income. Nevada is home to 250,000 Vets. 9.7% of those are women. 10,874 are Active Duty and 676 are considered homeless and at last count 170 of those were listed as unsheltered. Suicide among Vets is trending downward in part to awareness classes such as Safe Talk and an online course you can participate in Psych Armor. Veteran Services are ever evolving, in fact in the last two legislative sessions alone 56 bills were passed in favor of Vets. If you are a Veteran, you may contact the NDVS review your benefits. President Jackie Thornhill presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel For February 6, 2020 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  4. 106

    Kat Miller - Director of the Nevada Department of Veterans Services

    The Wheel For January 30, 2020 Listen to Kat Miller &#8211; Veteran Services The Wheel Download Kat Miller &#8211; Veteran Services Kat is the Director of the Nevada Department of Veterans Services, responsible for supporting the State Veterans Cemeteries, Veterans Homes, and Veterans Service Officer program. Kat served 34 years in the United States Army. Beginning her career as soldier in the Woman&#8217;s Army Corps, she achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant before commissioning as a military police officer. She has served around the world, to include Panama, Germany, Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan; and commanded at company, battalion, and Army Command levels, earring the distinction as the longest serving brigade commander in modern Army history. Kat&#8217;s three Pentagon tours included duty as the Commander of the Army Corrections Command, supervising six correctional facilities and developing policy for the detention of unlawful enemy combatants. After retiring, she taught bachelors and masters level college course at the University of Maryland and the University of Nevada, Reno until she was appointed by Governor Sandoval as Director. Kat’s education includes a Master’s of Science degree from the U.S. Army War College and a Master’s of Public Administration from Roosevelt University in Chicago. Speaking Topics From Private to Colonel—and all the Bumps In Between Never dreaming of a career in the military, Kat found herself following the promise of a college education into a life she never imagined; leading soldiers on 5 continents in both war and peace. Hear an inspiring—sometimes amusing, sometimes challenging—story of serving in the United States Army. Celebrating the Legacy of America’s Women Warriors! Take a walk through time as Kat highlights the history of women in the U.S. Military; from 1775 through today’s modern force. She will draw from her distinguished career to offer perspectives on the contribution of women warriors and why they are essential to the success of America’s military. You Need America’s Veterans—More Than They Need you! The media often portrays veterans as broken, dangerous, and unstable. While some veterans both need and deserve assistance, this inaccurate media portrayal prevents many from seeing Veterans for who they really are. Kat shares her experience as Neavda’s Director of Veterans Services to showcase the contributions of America’s Veterans and provide ideas about how you can support our military and veterans. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, Also, on my list of speakers was a representative from Veteran’s services. I asked that the area of focus be on health-related issues. Taking care of those who take care of us by keeping us safe and preserving our freedom is the one responsibility that our government must take not just seriously, (that is a given,) but place its importance as a top priority. Our club has long supported our active duty military through the Wetzel awards and has, during this year given financial support to the local USO. We are so fortunate to have so many veterans as club members, and we thank them for their service. To quote from the Institute of Medicine, “The men and women in the United States armed forces confront health challenges of a scope and complexity that few other Americans ever experience. Active-duty personnel in combat directly face risks of injury or death. In addition, both combat forces and personnel serving away from the front lines may experience lengthy exposures to hazardous environments, either natural or produced by human activities. Chemical exposures, for example, may at times exceed those that would be considered safe in a civilian working environment. Beyond immediate physical threats, military personnel often must deal with the effects of being in high-intensity, stressful, and dangerous environments, sometimes for months or years at a time.” There is a laundry list of physical ailments that can result from this excessive exposure. Most of us are aware of the cancers, coronary disease, diabetes, hypertension, chronic fatigue and so many more, but what about the mental issues? We hear about PTS, used to be known as PTSD, but therapists now do not wish to label this as a disorder. Therapists hesitate to use the description of mental illness. The preference is that is the result of a traumatic event or events. But what about veteran homelessness, drug abuse and suicide? I am especially interested in the veteran homelessness. Why are our military veterans on the streets? Is it their choice or lack of opportunity? If it is a lack of opportunity, then the Federal government shoulders some of the burden. Three weeks ago we heard Judith Pinkerton speak about her Music for Life program and how she delivered it to an Air Force Base in Alaska. Another member, Dr Michael Williams, works with Veterans through his skill with Transcendental Meditation. Alternative therapies, that are having some amazing results. Is the Department of Veterans Affairs offering alternative therapies to our active duty and veterans? Members of the military, like civilians, increasingly are using dietary supplements. Although some supplements may provide benefits to health, others may compromise the readiness and performance of service members. The risks may be greatest for specific military populations, such as members of Special Forces units, who often endure harder tasks and harsher environments and therefore face heightened physiological demands. These several potential health disciplines and many others I hope are being considered as additions to the standard medical practices. Many of us civilians practice a combination of both. Shouldn’t our military and veterans be offered both as well? Additionally, first responders are also exposed to many of the same health challenges. They deserve our care and compassion as well. Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights Val Hatley missed the Joker but doubled his bet with $10. Toni Kern announced our club&#8217;s “Together We Read” program. President Jackie presented our speaker Daniel Liles with our Share What You Can Award. President Jackie and PE Richard Jost presented a check for $4,000 to Chris Palladino of Junior Achievement. PP Michael Gordon gave us some wonderful info then led us in song. PP Jim Kohl gave the invocation. Kirk Alexander was our Sergeant At Arms. Chantay Ben Shimon our Global Grants Scholar, expressed her appreciation for our club sponsoring her. Bob Werner won the Lawry&#8217;s Bucks. Bob Werner introduced a visiting Rotarian from Germany. At President Jackie’s head table were Marie Walsh, John Ingeme and our speaker Daniel Liles. Scribe &#8211; January 23, 2020 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  Thursday, January 23, 2020 President Jacqueline Thornhill called the meeting to order. Past President Jim Kohl gave the invocation.  Past President Michael Gordon led the club singing God Bless America, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.   The Sergeant at Arms was Kirk Alexander There was 1 International Rotarian, 1 visiting Rotarian and  5 Guest of Rotarians introduced. Special guest, Chantay Ben Shimon, the Global Grants Scholar sponsored by the Las Vegas Rotary Club and District 5300 was recognized and applauded.     The drawing began at $3,920.00 plus this week’s donations.  The Ticket Winner was Val Hatley, who received a prize of $10 and the Lawry’s Bucks Winner was Bob Werner. President Jacqueline Thornhill announced: The People of Action Campaign is one of our check boxes for the Presidential Citation so please continue to send photos to Jackie. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is extending their partnership with Rotary and adding an additional $150,000,000 to eradicate polio. Reminder that the International convention is June 6-10 and is being held in Hawaii. District conference is in Pasadena May 1 to May 3, 2020.  There is one Business Card Ad still available in the Wheel. Olena Balybina from the 2019 Ukrainian One World Delegation let us know that Oksana Tjupa, is the Charter President of the newly formed Rotary Club in Kyiv, Ukraine. Janet Linder underwent surgery and reports are that it went well. Remember to recycle the wheel and tickets and to keep the Green Book moving. President Elect Richard Jost presented: Chris Palladino, Jr. Achievement of Southern Nevada, a Community Grants Award of $4,000 to help 40,000 kids learn financial literacy and job readiness.   Toni Kern provided an update to the new project “Together We Read”.  Rotary will be partnering with Spread the Word Nevada with funding from a Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation grant.  The content and structure are still in evolution, but updates will be shared as plans begin to firm. Shannon Brown from Will Beckley Elementary has agreed to assist in the project execution.   An informational questionnaire is scheduled to go out 2/15/2020 from a data base provided by Shannon at Beckley. Anyone interested in this project please contact Toni Kern. Shannon Brown said that Will Beckley is proud to sponsor “Together We Read” and have the opportunity to give back to this Club.  On another note, Career Day is on Friday, 2/7. If you can participate please contact Shannon Brown. 25 Club President, Carey Grohs introduced a new 25 Club International Project, Destiny Rescue which was introduced at the 2019 Peace Conference.  The 25 Club Goal is to raise $3,000 to rescue 2 girls from human trafficking. She also announced that the 25 Club graduation will be held at McFadden’s on Jan.29. Marie Walsh announced Breakfast with Books on February 11. President Jackie Thornhill for Director Melanie Jo Muldowney announced that through the end of June, the Club will offer a Foundation match of 50% or up to 500 points to obtain your first Paul Harris award or to increase your current level.   Contact Shawn or Melanie to find out your status. President Elect Richard Jost announced the fund raiser tickets are for sale.  He encouraged everyone to take at least 2 tickets. Michael Williams said that RYLA will be held 3/21-3/23 in Big Bear, CA.  Our Club will be sponsoring 15 students so if you know of someone that would qualify please talk to Michael. President Jacqueline Thornhill for Deb Granda reminded us of the Red Cross Blood Drive on February 29 from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM we will be holding our first Blood Drive at Lawry’s the Prime Rib.  Donors and people for logistical help are needed. Schedule yourself in the Green Book. Past President Jim Tucker announced that the Superbowl Board is SOLD OUT! Marie Walsh introduced our program speaker, Daniel Liles, Instructional Coach at Will Beckley Elementary School. Daniel Liles was the 2011-2012 Ambassadorial Scholar to India which was sponsored by District 5240 in California. Thru his photography and comprehensive narrative, we were able to understand the many cultural differences and challenges he experienced as he set out to find and execute a meaningful Service Project.   He generously shared his personal growth from acknowledging cultural bias that he did not know existed to how the experience molded him and guided his career path and choices he makes even today. It was that experience that led him to Will Beckley and ultimately to our Club. President Jackie Thornhill presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel For January 30, 2020 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    Daniel Liles - Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar

    The Wheel for January 23, 2020 Listen to Daniel Liles &#8211; Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar The Wheel Download Daniel Liles &#8211; Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar Daniel Liles is a proud native of Las Vegas and 2011-12 Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar sponsored by District 5240 in California. In, 2010 he graduated from California Lutheran University, where he earned dual Bachelor degrees in International Relations and Music, specializing in piano performance. It was a professor at his university that first introduced Daniel to Rotary and he quickly became interested in getting involved with the organization and pursuing the ambassadorial scholarship. After graduating, Daniel was selected to be a Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar sponsored by the Rotary Club of Thousand Oaks. He spent his year of service with District 3010 in New Delhi, India. While in India, Daniel worked in the largest slum in Delhi to revitalize a Rotary sponsored school. Daniel also was enrolled full time in an academic program studying International Development. After returning, and speaking with over 20 Rotary clubs both in India and the United States, Daniel was honored with a Paul Harris Fellowship from his sponsor club. After his Ambassadorial year, Daniel was selected to a two-year fellowship with Teach For America, an organization that works directly with public education schools to address educational inequity. Daniel began his teaching career in special education at Dell H. Robison Middle school in the Clark County School District (CCSD), the same district from which he graduated. During this time, Daniel completed a Master’s degree in Education from UNLV. Currently, Daniel is serving in a new role as an Instructional Coach at Will Beckley Elementary school. In this role, Daniel works directly with teachers and community partners to provide the highest quality education possible for the students he serves. Outside of school, Daniel actively engages with the Education community on various levels. He is currently serving a two-year term on the State Superintendent’s Teacher Advisory Cabinet, is an instructor for an undergraduate and graduate education course at UNLV, was selected as a Teach Plus Education Policy fellow in 2018, and is also an alumni and steering committee member of the Teacher Leader Academy at the Public Education Foundation. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, For the second time this month, we will hear from one of our own, Daniel Liles. Daniel has quite an impressive resume and a Rotary Club history. Daniel was an Ambassadorial Scholar sponsored by District 5240, and the Thousand Oaks Club. Daniel will have much to share with us about his year long service project. Many of us know Daniel through our work with Beckley Elementary. He is always around with a smile, a kind word and support for Rotary. I want to provide more information about Rotary International Scholarship programs. Some of you may have been introduced to Chantay BenShimon who, with assistance from PP Karen Whisenhunt, is applying to our District for the Global Grants Scholarship, formerly known as Ambassadorial Scholarships. They were founded in 1947 and the purpose has not changed. According to Rotary International, the purpose of the Ambassadorial Scholarships program is to further international understanding and friendly relations among people of different countries and geographical areas. The program sponsors several types of scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students. While abroad, scholars serve as goodwill ambassadors to the host country and give presentations about their homelands to Rotary Clubs and other groups. Upon returning home, scholars share with Rotarians and others the experiences that led to a greater understanding of their host country. Daniel is going to share this and much else with us today. Rotary International averages about 7.5 million in scholarship awards per year. Over its history, RI has awarded over 350,000 scholarships. There are two types of scholarships. 1. Rotary clubs offer scholarships for secondary, undergraduate, or graduate study. Rotary club scholarships are given by individual clubs and are open to anyone except Rotary members and their families. 2. The Rotary Foundation offers scholarships for college graduates and professionals to study peace and conflict resolution. Rotary peace fellowships are available to candidates who want to participate in a master’s degree or certificate program at one of our six partner universities. Global Grants Scholarships of which Chantay is preparing for, are for graduate students studying abroad in one of Rotary’s Six Causes: Promoting peace Fighting disease Providing clean water, sanitation, and hygiene Saving mothers and children Supporting education Growing local economies Scholarships last from one to four years and can include an entire degree program. Global grant scholarships are funded using cash or District Designated Funds matched by the World Fund. Rotary International also awards Peace Fellowships. According to rotary.org, each year Rotary awards up to 100 fully funded fellowships for dedicated leaders from around the world to study at one of our peace centers. In just over a decade, the Rotary Peace Centers have trained more than 1,200 fellows. Many of them now serve as leaders at international organizations or have started their own foundations. Our contributions to the Rotary International Foundation are what provides the opportunities  for men and women all over the world to participate in Rotary’s six areas of focus. Rotary members are a major catalyst in nominations for these scholarships and fellowships. If you know anyone who might be a great candidate, please go to rotary.org to learn more about the requirements for application. &nbsp; Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights Toni Kern opened the meeting with the invocation. Ted McAdam along with our recognized airmen from Nellis and Creech led us in song with &#8220;The US Air Force.&#8221; Sergeant At Arms Mike Cudiamat and 25 Club President Carey Grohs posed for a picture. President Jackie presented our speaker with our “Share What You Can Award”. President Jackie and PE Richard presented a check to “After School All Stars”. PP Jim Hunt missed his chance at the Joker. Our speaker Jeff Civillico showed us one of his balancing skills. Our fourth quarter Nellis and Creech Airmen were recognized with our Wetzel Awards. Melanie Muldowney and President Jackie presented Paul Harris Fellows to Andy Kuniyuki with his first, Lloyd Sauter with his fifth and President Elect Elect (PEE) Mike Ballard with his fourth. Marie Walsh shared the success of our Breakfast with Books event. Kathy Mahon drew the Lawry&#8217;s Bucks for the second week in a row. Erik Astramecki joined PE Richard Jost to be recognized for his sponsorship of our Annual Fundraiser. Along with President Jackie at the head table were Janice Lencke, Eric Astramecki and our speaker Jeff Civillico. Scribe &#8211; January 16, 2020 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: January 16, 2020 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order. Toni Kern gave the invocation. Ted McAdam led the club in signing “ The U.S. Air Force Song”. Mike Cudiamat was the Sergeant-At-Arms; We had 0 visiting International Rotarians, 0 visiting Rotarians and 5 Guests of Rotarians were introduced. The weekly drawing ticket winner was PP Jim Hunt drew an Ace for a prize of $50. Kathy Mahon MD won the Lawry’s Bucks; President Jackie Thornhill announcements/reminders: International Convention held in Hawaii in June 6-10 District Conference is in in Pasadena. Registration is open. The Pasadena Club is celebrating their 100th People of Action Campaign is ongoing. Please send photos to President Jackie. Your quarterly and monthly contributions help fund programs that keep our projects moving. Please consider donating to the permanent fund. Remember to recycle Wheels and tickets. New RI Committee Together We Read, needs committee members. Chair is Toni Kern. Member Donald Loyd He has had several strokes. His wife Betsy sends good wishes. 25 Club President Carey Grohs reminder 25 Club Graduation held at 6 PM January 25th at McFaddens; Ted McAdams and PP David Thorson presented 4th Quarter Wetzel Awards to our visiting Service Members; Brian Sorrentino reminder the Annual Fundraiser Cuisine and Octane on April 25th our goal is two tickets sold per member. Tickets are $100 including food and open bar; Melanie Muldowney Presented a Paul Harris Fellow to Andy Kuniyuki made possible by Robert Barnard. Lloyd Sauter received a plus 5. PEE Mike Ballard received a plus 4. Marie Walsh gave an update on Breakfast with Books; the students read 370 books in one month. PP Jim Tucker announced 23 squares remain available on the SuperBowl board. Squares are $50 each. PP Karen Whisenhunt asks for host families for the German boys in the Mayors Cup in February; She needs for two homes to host two boys each. Jodi Manzella and Mark Faber received a $5000 grant for After School All-Stars. Invited us to participate in their upcoming dodge ball tournament on March 7th. Janice Lencke introduced today’s speaker Jeff Civillico to discuss his organization Win-Win Entertainment. Jeff is a wonderful story teller and professional performer. He shared with us how he came to be a performer through acts of service. The age of 7 is when his passion for performance came to life. His father, a dentist, had an established relationship with a school for children with special needs. His father’s connection welcomed the performance and Jeff loved the experience. Although he went on to become a professional performer including cruise lines and a show in Las Vegas at the Paris; performing for children-in-need fulfills him. He just closed his show at Paris after ten years to expand Win-Win Entertainment. Win-Win is currently in 7 states matching “time and talent” of professional performers in direct service to children’s organizations such as St. Jude’s Children’s Ranch and UMC bringing the joy of performers to the children who need it most. As he grows Win-Win Entertainment he will continue key note speaking and corporate engagements.  We can help by advocating for awareness of Win-Win Entertainment. More information at winwinentertainment.org President Jackie Thornhill presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for January 23, 2020 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    Judith Pinkerton – Journey – Strip Work to Music Therapy

    The Wheel for January 9, 2020 Listen to Judith Pinkerton &#8211; Journey &#8211; Strip Work to Music Therapy The Wheel Download Judith Pinkerton &#8211; Journey &#8211; Strip Work to Music Therapy Judith is a keynote speaker, author, radio show host, recording artist, and licensed board-certified music therapist. As a leading expert in music-based stress management, Judith empowers people globally to live differently. Her call to action TEDxUNLV platform MUSIC POWERS POTENTIAL alerts people about their music listening habits that may provoke harm, addiction and dis-ease. As a popular speaker and collaborator, Judith addresses stress management to develop emotional fluidity and improve emotional intelligence with user-friendly life skills building capacity to deal with more stress. Audiences learn how to make music work like medicine, applying special mood formulas from all genres to regulate emotion. Featured in her popular podcasts, Judith spontaneously takes guests on a journey, weaving their life story with insights illustrated by their music choices and links to music medicine applications. Judith has written numerous books, produced Music Medicine Pills&#x2122; including her artistry on violin, and creates constant new content at the MusicMedicineClub.com. Her accredited eCourses have been endorsed by the Nevada State Board of Nursing, Certification Board for Music Therapists, and other health boards since 1990. Judith is now available online for consultations at MusicTelemedicine.com. Founder of Music 4 Life® Inc., Judith produces, presents and supervises Music 4 Life programs and products online and locally in Las Vegas, Nevada. Her work grew out of a hospital experience when her solo violin music replaced medication post-surgery. As a violinist, she has performed with symphonies from Switzerland to Alaska as well as dozens of stars on the Las Vegas strip, including Metallica, Elton John, Andrea Bocelli, and Donny Osmond. Judith provided music therapy services for more than 11,000 patients in addiction residential treatment centers since 2012. Prior to her recovery focus, she founded and managed a nonprofit music therapy clinic for two decades as clinic director, researcher, grant writer, internship director and music therapist. She was responsible for securing over $500,000 in state and private grants to support people from “cradle to grave” with disabilities, mental illness and medical conditions. Judith spearheaded efforts resulting in the new Nevada law for music therapy state licensure. Judith is the first to receive that license in the USA. Judith served her professional association as President of the Western Region Chapter of the American Music Therapy Association. She chaired Las Vegas’ only music therapy conference, attracting music therapists from across the country, Australia, England and Spain, and taught music therapy at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Judith’s global healing work has been honored by the Academy of Country Music and Aflac, Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce, and TEDxUNLV 2014. She has presented for the International Women’s Forum “Music an Instrument for Change,” International Association for Comprehensive Energy Psychology, American Holistic Nurses Association, and numerous national conferences. Judith has been featured on radio, television, on the cover of St. Rose Hospital’s magazine, Corporate Wellness Magazine, Billboard Magazine, Recovery.org/ProCorner, Body Mind Spirit Magazine, Las Vegas Magazine, Maturity Today, Senior Press, So. Nevada Healthcare Journal, El Heraldo de Las Vegas, Las Vegas Review Journal, InLight Times, and The Las Vegas Sun. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, I hope you all had a Very Happy Holiday season and are looking forward to the next six months of our Rotary Year! I know I am. We have new 25 Club officers and they are off to a dynamic start. They have many ideas for Socials and a new International Service Project with Destiny Rescue. More about this upcoming. Our speaker today is our own Judith Pinkerton. She will tell us all about her music career here in Las Vegas and her latest music project. Las Vegas has been called the “Entertainment Capital of the World.” World Class large production shows, small venue music shows, the Smith Center for live music and plays, restaurants from most of the notable chefs and second locations for many eateries in New York and Chicago. What is the history of entertainment in Las Vegas? I could not possibly detail it in this short message, but some of the most well-known entertainers have performed here over the years. The “Rat Pack” and Elvis are some of the most prolific as they have spawned several tributes shows. A good friend of mind is a Frank Sinatra tribute entertainer and performed at the Rio’s Rat Pack show back in the day. From the Rat Pack, we go to several high-profile entertainers such as Wayne Newton, Liberace, our own Danny Gans, (very missed,) and the “topless revues.” Then came the magic shows, Siegfried and Roy, Penn and Teller, David Copperfield, Lance Burton, (I remember when Lance Burton signed a “13” year deal with the Monte Carlo,) and we all thought we wouldn’t live that long or would he! Then came the big productions shows due to the takeover of the corporate bean counters. Production shows were more “cost effective” than paying name entertainers. These shows then gave way to the Cirque du Soleil shows. The original and still my favorite, Mystère, then KÁ, O, Zumanity, Elvis (gone,) Beatles Love, Michael Jackson and Criss Angel with his amazing magic. Now we have gone full circle as big-name entertainers are now performing residencies, the new thing! We also host the NFR, (National Finals Rodeo,) Las Vegas Bowl, Vegas Golden Knights, Las Vegas Raiders, woohoo! A possible NBA franchise, an MLS Soccer team and so can an MLB Baseball team be too far behind? I have heard rumors that the Kansas City Royals are thinking about a move and Las Vegas is on their radar. I would rather have the San Francisco Giants, but they have a beautiful new AT&amp;T stadium and a huge fan base. The Smith Center opened in March of 2012 and suddenly, Sin City had culture. Major Broadway plays are on the playbill and local Las Vegas entertainers perform in the Cabaret. I guess that Las Vegas IS the Entertainment Capital of the World! If you can’t find something to do…I wonder?  Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights President Jackie’s Membership committee enjoyed a good year. PP Russ Swain misses the Joker but pulls a $50 Ace. PP Jim Kohl presented a check from Howard &#038; Howard and the LVRF to the Boy Scouts. PP Jim Hunt was December&#8217;s Rotarian of the Month. PP Jim Hunt and PP Ginger Anderson presented the special people in their lives with next level Paul Harris Fellowship pins. PP Ginger Anderson was joined by her husband Dan for lunch. Jerry Engel led us in song. Gregory McGuire won the Lawry&#8217;s Bucks. Deb Granda give PP Randy Donald a Christmas peck on the cheek. Bill Houghton introduced his son Cooper. At President Jackie’s head table were Rose Falocco, PP Kathy Dalvey and Rosalee Hedrick. Anil Melnick led our invocation for the last meeting of 2019. 2019 was closed out by The Somerset Academy Sky Pointe choir. They were fantastic. Sergeant At Arms Deb Granda exchanged banners with guest Rotarians. Sergeant At Arms Deb Granda exchanged banners with guest Rotarians. Scribe &#8211; December 19, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club &#8211; December 19th, 2019 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order. Anil Melnick gave the invocation, Jerry Engel served as song the leader and Deb Granda was the Sergeant-At-Arms; We had no visiting International Rotarians, two visiting Rotarians and eight Guests of Rotarians were introduced; President Jackie Thornhill reminds Rotarians to attend the International Convention to be held in Hawaii in June; President Jackie Thornhill reminds that the people of action campaign is ongoing and to send President Jackie photos; President Jackie Thornhill reminds about monthly/quarterly contributions to the Las Vegas Rotary Foundation, and looking for donations to the permanent fund; President Jackie Thornhill announces that the Rotarian of the month is Jim Hunt; President Jackie Thornhill reminds everyone of the Celebration of life for Colonel Robert L. Barnard; Rosalee Hedrick announces the winners for this quarter’s membership contest; David Thorson reminds the club of the upcoming Wetzel Awards on 01/09/20 at 2:30; Marie Walsh gave an update on Breakfast with Books; Toni Kern gives an update on the planning of our annual fundraiser Cuisine and Octane; Michael Williams gave a recap of our Magical Forest event; Club Assembly Rosalee Hedrick gave a recap of the Membership Committee. Project 140 produced 3 this quarter. Kirk Alexander gave a recap of the successful SOAR Awards, Canned Food Drive, Santa Clothes, Wetzel Awards, Breakfast with Books, Bracken Elementary School partnership, Spread the Word Nevada, Highway Clean up, Magical Forest; Bill Houghton gave a recap of TLC, RYLA, Interact and Rotaract Clubs, Peace Conference, 4-way Speech Contest, Valedictorian Luncheon and the Lefler Grant; Ted McAdams gave a recap of the International Services programs such as Superbuild, Mayors Cup, World Peace Conference, International Youth Exchange, Open World, and the Global Grants; Melanie Muldowney gave a recap of the Rotary International Foundation programs, the Paul Harris Fellowships, Vocational Projects, Scholarships, International Grants, Open World; Kirk Holmes gave a recap of the Public Image Committee areas, website development, public Image/Social Media and program guest speakers; Howie Hopkinson was not present, so President Jackie gave a recap of Special Projects such as 100% Attendance Awards, District Awards, District Assembly and Conference, UNLV Presidential Coin Presentation; President Elect Richard Jost gave a recap of our fundraising events including Wine to Water, 25 Club Halloween Party benefiting the Canned Food Drive and Cigar Socials; Anil Melnick gave a recap of the many fellowship activities held like the UNLV Tail Gate Party, Putting Tournament, Holiday Party, Family of Rotary events President Jackie Thornhill presented the Somerset Academy High School Choir to sing Holiday songs and wished everyone Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for January 9, 2020 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    Las Vegas Rotary Club - Club Assembly

    The Wheel for December 19, 2019 Club Assembly The Wheel Download Club Assembly &#8220;Teaching Youth to Succeed &nbsp; through Literacy, Education &nbsp; and Life Skills Development&#8221; Message From The President Dear Rotarians, This has been a busy week. We say goodbye to one of our long-time members and friend, Colonel Bob Barnard. We will listen to our Board of Directors update the membership on what event, socials and projects have been completed so far. And, I will have completed my first six months as President…Wow did that go by fast! Today, as we conclude that our last regular meeting of the calendar year, we look forward to spending another Holiday Season with our families and friends. The world each day seems to be is such a state of uncertainty, we are so thankful for our Rotary Club and our fellow Rotarians. &nbsp; When we return, we look forward to the last six months of the Rotary year. We still have so many events and projects to complete. Some of the projects we have planned or in the planning stages, are Foundation Matching points, a new Global Grant, new 25 Club International project, the 4 Way Test Speech contest, (new chair, Rose Falocco,) the Mayors Cup, Wine to Water, Cigar Fellowships, RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards,) Wetzel Awards, Dan Stover Music Contest, the Annual Fundraiser, Valedictorian Luncheon, District Assembly/Conference and District Awards, Putting Tournament, Superbuild, Highway Cleanup and The Debunking Party. No wonder our club is the Greatest Rotary Club in the World! So, members new and seasoned, you have many opportunities to become involved with club committees and the committee chairs would welcome your help! Please reach out if you haven’t already been contacted. Reconnect and experience the Fellowship of Rotary! From me to all of you, I wish you the Happiest of Holiday Seasons, Peace and Prosperity in the New Year and all the joys of Rotary Fellowship! &nbsp; Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights Tina Bishop led us in song with Jingle Bells. President Jackie presented our Share What You Can awards to our speakers. President Jackie, Janet Linder and Rosalee Hedrick inducted two new members to our club Deborah Delanoy and Janna Velasco. PP Randy Donald won the Lawrys Bucks. Pete Samoulis misses the Joker. Michael Williams led us with his invocation. Marie Walsh was recognized as Rotarian of the Month. Marie Walsh poses with Eugene Toyama and Shannon Brown. In Honor of Colonel Robert L. Barnard. Bob Werner exchanged banners with our visiting international rotarian. Birthday Rotarians Jimmelle, Michael and Randy Donald pose for a picture. Beckley Principal Shannon Brown receives a Paul Harris Fellowship for her dedication to our Club. At President Jackie’s head table were Brock Fraser and our speakers from Opportunity Village, Adam Joseph and Gregory Gudenkauf. Sergeant at Arms Jimmelle Trijo exchanged banners with 3 visiting Rotarians. Sergeant at Arms Jimmelle Trijo exchanged banners with 3 visiting Rotarians. Sergeant at Arms Jimmelle Trijo exchanged banners with 3 visiting Rotarians. Scribe &#8211; December 12, 2019 December 12th, 2019 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order and asked for a moment of silence in memory of the passing of Colonel Robert Barnard. Michael Williams gave the invocation, Tina Bishop served as song the leader and Jimmelle Trijo was the Sergeant-At-Arms; We had one visiting International Rotarian, four visiting Rotarians and two Guests of Rotarians were introduced; President Jackie Thornhill reminds Rotarians about the International Convention to be held in Hawaii in June; President Jackie Thornhill reminds that the people of action campaign is ongoing and to send President Jackie photos; President Jackie Thornhill reminds that your monthly/quarterly contributions help fund programs such as Santa Clothes, Wetzel Awards, RYLA, Can food Drive; President Jackie Thornhill recognizes the principal of Will Beckley elementary school Shannon Brown, by presenting her with a Paul Harris Fellowship; Janet Lender and Rosalee Hedrick inducted two new members to the club; Ted McAdams introduced the Rotarians at the December birthday table and lead the club in singing “Happy Birthday”; President Jackie Thornhill announces the Rotarian of the month for October as Karen Whisenhunt and for November Marie Walsh; Toni Kern gave a recap of the Las Vegas Rotary Annual Holiday Party; Jim Hunt gave a recap to the annual Santa Clothes event; President Jackie reminds the club of the upcoming Wetzel Awards on 01/09/20 at 2:30; Marie Walsh gave an update on this week’s Breakfast with Books; Jerry Sennes reminds the club of this Saturdays Highway Clean Up and brunch at his home afterwards; Janice Lencke gives an update on the planning of our annual fundraiser Cuisine and Octane; Michael Williams gave a recap of last week’s TLC camp and a reminder for volunteers for this evening’s Magical Forest event; Karen Whisenhunt asks for host families for the students participating in the Mayors Cup in February; The weekly drawing began at $3,080.00 plus this week’s donations. The ticket winner was Pete Samoulis and he did not pull the winning Joker card. Past President Randy Donald won the Lawry’s Bucks. President Jackie Thornhill presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for December 19, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    Adam K. Joseph & Gregory Gudenkauf - Opportunity Village

    The Wheel for December 12, 2019 Listen to Adam K. Joseph &amp; Gregory Gudenkauf &#8211; Opportunity Village The Wheel Download Adam K. Joseph &#8211; Opportunity Village Adam K. Joseph is Opportunity Village’s Vice President of Philanthropy and also serves as member of the Executive Team helping set the strategic direction for the organization. Reporting to President and CEO, Bob Brown, Adam along with his dedicated team has oversight for all fundraising and donor relation initiatives, which include capital campaigns, annual giving programs, major gifts, grants, and event fundraising. Adam is a result oriented, cross-functional senior executive with 20- plus years of expertise in scaling organizations through strategically focused leadership, direction, and profitability. Previously he was a CFO for a family office in Texas, which has investments in the areas of technology and hospitality. He is a disciplined and motivated leader who excels in leveraging high-performing teams and relationships at all levels. Adam and his wife have now returned to Las Vegas for their second time. He is a graduate of the Conrad N. Hilton College at the University of Houston. Adam is honored to be an integral part of Opportunity Village, helping it to foster lasting partnerships in Southern Nevada and beyond. More importantly, he is committed and focused on creating a path forward for the future of OV for the next six decades and beyond. Gregory Gudenkauf &#8211; Opportunity Village Gregory has the honor of working in many roles at Opportunity Village over five years supporting people with disabilities in Southern Nevada. Gregory currently serves as the Director of Development, coordinating OV’s Major Gifts efforts, annual giving, legacy giving program and raising funds for OV’s Capital Campaign. Before joining Opportunity Village, Gregory served as a consultant for the Nevada Community Foundation and the Resource Development Manager for the Nevada Law Foundation. Gregory has served as Part-time Graduate Instructor for the Public Administration Department at University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Gregory earned a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from UNLV and taught undergraduate courses as a Graduate Assistant. Gregory earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from The Ohio State University and worked in the Group for Attitudes and Persuasion Lab conducting studies on power, persuasion, and self-validation. Gregory is currently volunteering his time as the Treasurer of the Association of Fundraising Professionals – Las Vegas Chapter Message From The President Dear Rotarians, Congratulations to all the 25 Club members of the Las Vegas Rotary Club! For the 14th year in a row, we raised more money than our Partner Service Club, Kiwanis. The final total for our club was $9485.13 which purchased 106,691 cans of food to refill the Salvation Army Food Bank. The Kiwanis Clubs raised enough money to purchase 76,278 cans of food. The truly wonderful benefit to our clubs’ 65th year of this competition is to help with the Salvation Army’s effort to feed the community’s homeless and hungry. As we continue to enjoy the Holiday Season and plan to spend time with our families creating lasting Holiday memories, we are reminded that there are families who will not be so fortunate. One such group is our service members serving overseas and will miss the Holidays with their families here in the US. Our Clark High School Interact Club as their international service project, has put together care packages for our military and are sending them out as I write. Another very sad situation is the rise of homeless in our city. Many residents are unaware that hundreds of homeless and homeless families are living underground in the sewer systems. Our city of Las Vegas is located in the Las Vegas Valley in the Mojave Desert, with the Spring Mountains surrounding the area which creates a unique issue. During the monsoon season of January and February, the heavy rainfall causes flash flooding that city planners countered by constructing an extensive labyrinth of storm sewers beneath the very streets that constitute some of the most expensive real estate on the planet. The Las Vegas City Council has attempted to so something. An ordinance was passed making it illegal to sleep or camp on the streets if shelter beds are available. This ordinance will start being enforced next year. When Sheriff Joe Lombardo recently spoke at our club meeting and was asked about the homeless condition, he responded that his officers would ask the homeless if they wanted to go to a program or shelter. Oftentimes, the answer was no. Maybe the new ordinance will help guide the less fortunate to programs offered by many churches, civic organizations and get referrals from entities such as the Salvation Army. We can hope and do something ourselves by volunteering our time to help. Many Rotary Clubs have service projects that assist with the groups mentioned. On a more positive note, another successful Santa Clothes this year, our 24th. Chair Jim Hunt, with co-chairs, Tom Krob and Randy Donald gave our club, surrounding clubs, other corporate entities, non-profits, friends and family members the opportunity to shop with the kids and bring Holiday joy in their lives! There were so many wonderful stories of the kids, the volunteers and all who had a part in such a wonderful and happy event! My personal thank you to all who participated and can’t wait for our milestone 25th year! 1.2 million dollars spent on clothing for 5,307 children in need! Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights Sergeant at Arms Rose Falcoco joins Bob Werner in exchanging banners with our guest from Lahaina, Hawaii. Rotary member Major Randy Kinnaman made an announcement that Rotary had won the Salvation Army can drive by 30,000 cans in outdoing the Kiwanis Clubs again. President Jackie presented our speaker Mark Hall-Patton with our Share What You Can Award. PP Jim Hunt presented President Jackie with a check for $18,000 towards Santa Clothes from the Ralph Engelstad Foundation. Our new President Elect PEE Mike Ballard was joined for lunch by two of his four children. Larry Tomsic Returns Holiday Party Magic Holiday Party Ladies Holiday Party Committee Carey Grohs introduced her son Gaven. Breakfast with Books Annual Meeting with the Kiwanis Clubs Santa Clothes 2019 Clark Interact Club Scribe &#8211; November 27, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  November 27, 2019 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order. Phillip Colosimo, Kiwanis President led a welcome to the meeting. Len Yelinek led the Pledge of Allegiance; Jim Small gave the invocation, Howard Naylor led the club in signing “American the Beautiful”; The Sergeant at Arms was Rose Falocco; There were (0) International Rotarians, (1) visiting Rotarians and (6) Guests of Rotarians introduced; President Jackie reminded the club about the People of Action Campaign and the international convention in Hawaii. Deb Granada reminded the Club about the upcoming holiday party. President Jackie reminded everyone about the December 14th highway cleanup.  Michael Williams announced the event on December 12th at the Magical Forest  and reminded everyone about the Teen Leadership Camp December 6-8th; Phillip Colosimo introduced the speaker, Mark Hall‑Patton, Museum Administrator for Clark County who presented to the Clubs about his work for the museum and also his role on the television show – Pawn Stars, as well as the positive effect on the Clark County Museums from the show. President Jackie presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO; Major Randy Kinnamon from the Salvation Army then presented the 2019 Canned Food Drive Results – Kiwanis: 76,278 cans; and Rotarians: 106,691 cans.  President Jackie then adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for December 12, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  9. 101

    Mark Hall-Patton – Kiwanis Club

    The Wheel for November 27, 2019 Listen to Mark Hall-Patton &#8211; Kiwanis Club The Wheel Download Mark Hall-Patton &#8211; Kiwanis Club Mark Hall-Patton is the Museums Administrator for the Clark County museum system, where he oversees the Clark County Museum, the Howard W. Cannon Aviation Museum, and the Searchlight History Museum. He has been with Clark County for twenty-three years, and was previously the Director of the San Luis Obispo County Historical Museum in California. He has worked for both public and private non-profit museums, and has consulted with numerous start-up and established museums and museum boards. He is a MAP surveyor for the American Alliance of Museums, and the author of four books, over 450 published articles, and has written and produced 48 local history videos. In 2009, he hosted a live interview program on CCTV television in the Vegas valley, and is regularly seen on the History Channel’s Pawn Stars as a visiting expert. He has also appeared on American Restoration, United Stuff of America, America Facts and Fallacies, 10 Things You Don’t Know About American History, Vegas PBS, TMZ Sports, CSPAN 3, Mysteries at the Museum, Hoarders, ABC’s 20/20, PBS, and the BBC Radio World Service. In addition to 14 years as a Board member of the Nevada Museums Association, where he served as President from 2000-2002 and 2008-2010, he has served on the California Association of Museums and Western Museums Association boards. He is a member of the board of the Nevada Test Site Historical Foundation, and the Nevada Aerospace Hall of Fame. He has been in the museum field for over 40 years, having also worked with museums in California and South Dakota. He holds a BA in History from the University of California at Irvine, and did graduate work in Museum Studies at the University of Delaware. He is married to Dr. Colleen Hall-Patton, professor of Sociology and Women’s Studies at UNLV, and they are the parents of Joseph Hall-Patton and Ellen Messenger-Patton. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, As we get closer to the Holiday Season and year end, it is time to reflect on the things that have gone well in our lives and the things that have not gone so well. Even though it is oftentimes easier said than done, we should view the “not gone well” as learning experiences. For me, my many friends and family members, Thanksgiving is the time to reflect on both. Thanksgiving is one of only two or three times each year that most extended families come together. Despite all the deafening noise that surrounds us each day, this day we can tune it out and focus on the good that also surrounds us. This is my favorite time of the year. I find myself counting the blessings of our Rotary club membership, our local service and social events, the kids whose lives we effected, our international projects, active duty and veterans support and more. I look so forward to the remaining biggest event of our Rotary year, Santa Clothes. Today, we will happily give the funds our club has raised, along with our partner service club, Kiwanis, to the Salvation Army to help refill their food bank. The food bank provides needed assistance for our city’s homeless and less fortunate. This is the 65th year our clubs have joined in this effort! Tomorrow, many of our city’s residents will volunteer in shelters, outreach centers, and charitable kitchens to make sure that as many people as possible will be celebrating the holiday in some way. How did all this get started? Were the Pilgrims at Plymouth Rock the actual first Thanksgiving? This story is what most of us learned in school. Even though it was not known as Thanksgiving at the time, it truly was a three-day feast shared with the local Native American tribe and the remaining colonists at the time. Subsequently, various versions were celebrated by the states, and the end of the American Revolution as designated by George Washington. Abraham Lincoln finally in 1863, at the height of the Civil War, in a proclamation entreating all Americans to ask God to “commend to his tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife” and to “heal the wounds of the nation.” He scheduled Thanksgiving for the final Thursday in November. It was celebrated on that day every year until 1939, when Franklin D Roosevelt moved the holiday up a week in an attempt to spur retail sales during the Great Depression. Thanksgiving is not without controversy either. I will let those of you who care, look that up. I prefer to wish the Rotary Club of Las Vegas, the happiest of Thanksgiving holidays complete with all the wonderful food, fellowship and family memories. See all of you at the JC Penney’s of your choice for Santa Clothes and our Holiday Party that evening. Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights Tina Bishop led us in song. Sergeant at Arms Deb Granda joined Bob Werner in exchanging Banners with a visitor from Scotland. Rene Gamero was joined for lunch with his brother. President Jackie presents our speaker Donna Foley Mabry with our “Share What You Can Award”. President Jackie presented a District banner to PP Jim Kohl for taking 3rd place in Rotary Giving. PP Jim Hunt and President Jackie displayed the check for $56,700 that will be given to JC Penny’s for Santa Clothes. Marie Walsh gave our invocation. Jordan Micev missed the Joker but doubled his money with a $10 bill. Jaime asked each of us to contribute $50 to the canned food drive. Francesca Gilbert presented our club with $1,500 check for our canned food drive. Bill Houghton brought us up to date on Team Leadership Camp. Barbara Billitzer won the Lawry&#8217;s Bucks. At President Jackie’s head table were our speaker Donna Foley Mabry, Jerry Engel and Diane Clary. Scribe &#8211; November 21, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  November 21, 2019 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order. Marie Walsh gave the invocation, reminding us all of how grateful we are. Tina Bishop led us in song, “God Bless America”. The Sergeant at Arms was Deb Granda. There were (1) International Rotarians, (1) visiting Rotarians and (9) Guests of Rotarians introduced. PP Jim Kohl presented a check for $5,500 to the Foundation for an Independent Tomorrow that has been serving the community for 22 years. PP Jim Hunt thanked everyone for their quick response to volunteer for Santa Clothes and mentioned that we still need help at the Meadows Mall. He encouraged Rotarians to contact him to help serve.  After the meeting a check for $56,700 will be presented at the Galleria Mall to J.C. Penney. Jimmelle Trijo announced that the final week of the canned food drive is upon us. Francesca Gilbert presented a check for $1,500 for the canned food drive. Brock Fraser, with a heavy heart, informed us that Ty Hilbrecht passed early Tuesday morning. Ty’s celebration of life is on December 3rd @ 2pm at the Palm Southwest Mortuary. Deb Granda invited all members to attend the Holiday Party on December 5th at the Dragon Ridge Country Club. Jaime Goldsmith announced that if all members would donate $50, we would meet our canned food drive fundraising goal. Kim Nyoni announced that $2,050 was raised for a family’s water system in Cambodia during the most recent Wine to Water event. President Jackie Thornhill reminded us that the highway clean-up is coming up on December 14th. Same time, with breakfast after the event. Michael Williams recognized all attendees of the Peace Conference on November 16th at Treasure Island. There were about 275 attendees. Michael Williams also encouraged us to attend Magical Forest on December 12th. PP Karen Whisenhunt discussed the upcoming Mayor’s Cup. We are looking for host families for 21 boys.  Our German youngsters will be here from Feb 14th-18th. Bill Houghton discussed Teen Leadership Camp. 300 8th graders are attending, including 15 students sponsored by our club.  It is taking place on December 6th-8th in Running Springs, CA. PE Richard Jost volunteered to be fined in order to request the donation of a Tractor Trailer for the Foundation for an Independent Tomorrow. Kathy Mahon announced that District 5300 is the last district left as a beta site for the Gates’ $500M American Literacy Program. The weekly drawing began at $2,849 plus this week’s donations. The ticket winner who received $10 was Jordan Micev; the Lawry’s Bucks went to Barbara Billitzer. Jerry Engel introduced our speaker. Donna Foley Mabry has written Maude, the best-selling non-fiction book on Amazon.com. She’s written 27 books total and many take place Las Vegas. President Jackie presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO. President Jackie announced our new Board of Directors members Captain Kirk Holmes, Bill Houghton, Toni Kern, Stu Lipoff, and Kim Nyoni and adjourned the meeting. &nbsp; <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for November 27, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  10. 100

    Donna Foley Mabry – Being an Author

    The Wheel for November 21, 2019 Listen to Donna Foley Mabry &#8211; Being an Author The Wheel Download Donna Foley Mabry &#8211; Being an Author Donna was sixty and thought she was gearing down for retirement when a job making costumes for a Vegas casino came along. They set her up in the girls’ dressing room, where she worked and listened to them talk. It wasn’t long before she thought, someone could write a book about this. So–she did, The Last Two Aces in Las Vegas. The publisher said it was too long, and she had to cut twenty thousand words. She took out one character and turned that into her second book, The Las Vegas Desert Flower. She was off and running. Her most successful book, Maude, the true story of her grandmother’s life, became an international best-seller and spent sixteen weeks on the Wall Street Journal best seller list. It’s been translated into Italian, German, and Russian. A movie is now in the works. Alternating between Vegas mysteries and American westerns, Donna publishes almost twice a year. In March, sixteen years after The Last Two Aces, she brought out her newest story, The Vegas Tycoon. That brings her active title list on Amazon to twenty-five. Her newest venture is into filmmaking. Along with writer, director, actor Shana Gagnon, she’s engaged in the pre-production work of fund raising for a mini-series or film to be based on her international best-seller, Maude. Donna is currently working on two books. One is a modern-day story about two college drama students who find they’re just as good at solving murders as they are at acting. The other is a historical that begins in Kansas in 1899 and goes to the beginning of the twentieth century. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, This past weekend was the 30th Annual District 5300 Peace Conference at Treasure Island. A big Thank you to all who attended and worked hard to increase the attendance. We had around 260 participants which included several attendees under 18. The speakers were amazing and the breakout sessions very informative and at times created profound sadness as well as inspiration. I want to discuss the breakout session that created the profound sadness. The session dealt with the worldwide epidemic of human trafficking. The two speakers were from an organization called Destiny Rescue. The organization works primarily in Asia where children in many cases are unknowingly placed into the commercial sex trade by their own families. Using their own personal experiences as a motivation to help children, Destiny Rescue team members spend countless hours observing, building trust with the victims and even posing as potential customers. This strategy has great success in stealing them away from this tragic life. But it does not end there. The rescued are given counseling, job training skills, education, healthcare and more to get them reintroduced to society, feeling safe and cared for. The success stories are a beacon of hope. Back at home in Las Vegas, our city deals with nearly the same tragedy. Our city, depending on what stats you read, ranks about number 7 on the list of US cities with human trafficking. Some profoundly sad statistics: According law enforcement in Las Vegas, the people most vulnerable to sex trafficking in the city are children under the age of 13 and female. With that said, males in that same age group are also the victims of sex trafficking in the city. A shocking one in three teenagers who end up on the streets of Las Vegas will be lured into prostitution within about 48 hours of departing from home. In addition to homeless youth, who don’t take advantage of shelters, a high percentage of young people who end up the victims of sex trafficking have fled abusive or otherwise volatile homes. Others have run from foster care placements. What is happening to combat this victimization of our children? LVMPD has not had created a task force. The Southern Nevada Human Trafficking Task Force partners with local, state and federal agencies, local non-profits, faith-based organizations, businesses and community members to address all forms of human trafficking. Thankfully, we have local authorities who are recognizing the need and have responded accordingly. Back to Destiny Rescue. This organization works internationally where law enforcement agencies may or may not help. Is there anything we, as Rotarians can do to help? Yes, we heard in the breakout session that it takes only $1500 to rescue one victim. Those of us at the Peace Conference discussed the possibility of our 25 Club creating an international service project to rescue one victim. How amazing would it be for the 25 Club to have their local service project, the Canned Food Drive in the first half of the Rotary year and an international service project, perhaps become a Destiny Rescue Partner, in the second half of the Rotary year? Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights We were honored with the Palos Verdes High School ROTC Presenting the Colors. The colors were retired and group picture taken. Ted McAdam recognized all members who served in the military. Ted McAdam led with the invocation and the Air Force Song. President Jackie presented our speaker General David Snoddy with our “Share What You Can Award”. Pete Samuolis won the the Lawry&#8217;s Bucks. Marie Walsh was joined by John Ingeme, her brother. Kim Nyoni reminded us of our wine to water event. Jerry Sennes missed the Joker. Janice Lencke discussed our annual fundraiser. Deb Granda and our Sergeant at Arms Rose Falocco gave an update on our holiday party. Dan Adamson was recognized with a fine for an article in a real estate publication. Carey Grohs was joined by her husband Chuck for lunch. Just back from FIJI. At President Jackie’s head table were Stacey Snoddy, Ted McAdam and our speaker General David Snoddy. Scribe &#8211; November 14, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  November 14, 2019 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order. Ted McAdam began with a Commemoration of Veterans Day and gave the invocation; Captain Gordon Doughty and the ROTC posted the colors; Ted McAdam called all Rotarians who serve or served in the U.S. Military to the front of the room to be recognized by the Club, then led the club in singing the “Star Spangled Banner” and “U.S. Air Force” followed by the Pledge of Allegiance; The Sergeant at Arms was Rose Falocco; There were (1) International Rotarians, (1) visiting Rotarians and (6) Guests of Rotarians introduced; President Jackie reminded the club about the People of Action Campaign and the international convention in Hawaii. She then provided a status update on Project 140.  There are currently 14 prospective Rotarians. Membership is working on submitting applications; Daniel Liles from Beckley thanked the club for their participation in the Fall Festival and Breakfast with Books; P. Karen Whisenhunt and P.P. Jim Tucker discussed the upcoming voting processes and requested additional nominations.  There was a motion made to close nominations that was unanimously approved.  P.P. Jim Tucker discussed the ballots and explained voting will open on Tuesday and will close Thursday to allow for announcement of new directors to take place at next week’s meeting.  Jimmelle Trijo announced that the final week of the canned food drive is upon us; Deb Granada reminded the Club about the upcoming holiday party; Marie Walsh did a wrap up of breakfast with books; Joakim Nyoni reminded the club of tonight’s Wine to Water at David Lester’s house; Jerry Sennes announced the December 14th highway cleanup and brunch at his house immediately after; Janice Lencke discussed the annual fundraiser and announced a new sponsorship that is available; Michael Williams discussed the Peace Conference on November 16th at Treasure Island and reminded everyone about the Teen Leadership Camp December 6-8th; P. Jim Hunt discussed Santa Clothes and the need for more volunteers for the event specifically for Meadows and Grand Canyon. With a very heavy heart, Brock Fraser gave the Club an update on Ty Hilbrecht. The weekly drawing began at $2,608 plus this week’s donations. The Ticket Winner who received $10 was Jerry Sennes;  the Lawry’s Bucks went to Pete Samuolis; Ted McAdam introduced the speaker &#8211; General David W. Snoddy with the United States Air Force, who gave a presentation on the Air Force and Nellis Air Force Base; President Jackie presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO; The ROTC performed a flag folding ceremony; retirement of the colors and President Jackie then adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for November 21, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  11. 99

    General David W. Snoddy – United States Air Force

    The Wheel for November 14, 2019 Listen to General David W. Snoddy &#8211; United States Air Force The Wheel Download General David W. Snoddy &#8211; United States Air Force Brig. Gen. David W. Snoddy is the Vice Commander, U.S. Air Force Warfare Center, Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada. The USAFWC’s mission is developing innovative leaders and full spectrum capabilities through responsive, realistic, and relevant Air Force and joint testing, tactics development, and advanced training across all levels of war. The center ensures deployed forces are well trained and well equipped to conduct integrated combat operations. From operational testing and tactics development programs to the advanced training schools, exercises and venues, the center provides Airmen with proven and tested technology, the most current tactics, superb academic training and a unique opportunity to practice integrated force employment. The center functions as a team of innovative, highly skilled Airmen providing effective weapons, tactics, and command and control integrated across air, space and cyberspace for the Joint Force Commander. The USAFWC is organized under Air Combat Command into four wings, two named activities, and one detachment with more than 11,000 Airmen serving in the 57th Wing, 53rd Wing, 99th Air Base Wing, 505th Command and Control Wing, the Nevada Test and Training Range, and the Air Force Joint Test Program Office. General Snoddy graduated from Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, in 1992 with a Bachelor of Arts in technology and a minor in psychology. Upon graduation, he received his commission through the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps. He has commanded at the squadron and wing levels, and has served on staffs at headquarters Air Force, joint sub-unified command and Office of the Secretary of Defense levels. General Snoddy’s professional experience includes cyberspace operations, policy development, executive services, architecture planning, network operations, and mission systems maintenance. His tactical experience includes service with Joint Task Force-Southwest Asia’s Joint Intelligence Center during Operation Southern Watch and as the J6 for a Joint Special Operations Task Force during Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. General Snoddy has commanded the 71st Communications Squadron and the 67th Cyberspace Wing. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, In recognition of Veteran’s Day, our club is honoring our Veterans with our special meeting led by Ted McAdam and PP Steve Linder, both veterans of the Air Force and Marine Corp respectively. The LVRC would like to thank our club veterans, all other veterans and active duty servicemembers for their selfless dedication to preserving our precious freedom. President Ronald Reagan once said, “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn&#8217;t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.” Having a strong military to defend us is paramount. How and when did the United States first dedicate a day to Veterans? Veterans Day was originally known as “Armistice Day” on Nov. 11, 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I. In 1926, Congress passed a resolution for an annual observance. November 11 became a national holiday beginning in 1938. Unlike Memorial Day, Veterans Day pays tribute to all American veterans, living or dead, but especially gives thanks to living veterans who served their country honorably during war or peacetime. Since its founding in 1776, the United States has fought in approximately a dozen major wars. Every generation of Americans has witnessed combat in one form or another. As such, tens of millions of Americans have suited up for the armed forces, including some 16 million during World War II alone. These servicemembers include 31 of the 45 Presidents. Well over 1 million have died in the vast majority in just two conflicts: The Civil War and World War II. If fact the single bloodiest day in US Military history was the Battle of Antietam Creek during the Civil War where a combined total of 27,717 lost their lives. These war heroes understood how preserving the Union was absolute to the survival of the United States just as all Veterans who have inherited the cause to protect and defend our country. Our veterans come from all walks of life; ethnicity, religion, gender and economic status. They all fought side by side as brothers and sisters. And, incidentally, Great Britain, France, Australia and Canada also commemorate their veterans of World War I and World War II on or near November 11th. Veterans Today 18.2 million&nbsp;living veterans&nbsp;served during at least one war as of 2018. 9 percent of veterans are women. 7 million veterans served during the&nbsp;Viet Nam War. 3 million veterans have served in support of the War on Terrorism. Of the 16 million Americans who served during World War II, about 496,777&nbsp;were&nbsp;still alive&nbsp;as of 2018. Connecticut was home to the highest percentage of World War II veterans as of 2018 at 7.1 percent. 2 million veterans served during the&nbsp;Korean War. As of 2017, the top three states&nbsp;with the highest percentage of Veterans were Alaska, Maine and Montana, respectively. For the veteran, thank you for bravely doing what you’re called to do so we can safely do what we’re free to do.” –&nbsp;Unknown Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights This week&#8217;s Sergeant at Arms Arleen Sirois and Carey Grohs reminded us of our canned food drive. President Jackie presented our speaker Glenn Meier with our “Share What You Can Award”. Paul Kellogg won the Lawry&#8217;s Bucks. Michael Williams reminded us of the Peace Conference on November 16th. Kirk Alexander gave a wrap up of our recent Super Build in Mexico. Jerry Engle missed his chance at the Joker and the Pot. Jerry Engle enlisted the help of Ted McAdam in delivering the long version of “God Bless America”. God Bless America with added verse. Dr. Andy Kuniyuki led the invocation. At President Jackie’s head table was PP Kathy Dalvey, our speaker Glenn Meier and Glenn&#8217;s co-worker. At our November Birthday table was Dr. Kazem Fathie, PP Russ Swain, Adam Hommey, Tina Bishop and Toni Kern. Bob Werner presented our banner to visiting International Rotarians. Bob Werner presented our banner to visiting International Rotarians. Scribe &#8211; November 7, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:&nbsp; November 7, 2019 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order. Andy Kuniyuki gave the invocation; Jerry Engel led the club in singing “God Bless America”, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. President Jackie then led the club in the Four-Way Test; The Sergeant at Arms was Arlene Sirois; There were (3) International Rotarians, (1) visiting Rotarians and (6) Guests of Rotarians introduced; President Jackie reminded the club about the People of Action Campaign and the international convention in Hawaii. She then provided a status update on the 140 Project.&nbsp; There are currently 12 prospective Rotarians and three applications were to be collected after the meeting.&nbsp; The Club has upgraded to a Gold Sponsor for the Peace Conference and there is still space available for Rotarians who would like to attend; Because it was the first Thursday of the month, the birthday table was introduced, and Ted McAdam led the club in signing “Happy Birthday”; Stanica Sretenovic, the principal at Bracken spoke about the upcoming Magnet Conference; Carey Grohs reminded the club that the canned food drive will run through the end of the month and we are currently halfway to our goal.&nbsp; Janice Lencke reminded the club about the Holiday Party and Annual Fundraiser which will have a committee meeting immediately after the weekly meeting adjourns; Joakim Nyoni discussed the upcoming Wine to Water on November 14th and David Lester’s house; Marie Walsh discussed the upcoming Breakfast with Books on November 12th; Michael Williams discussed the Peace Conference on November 16th at Treasure Island and reminded everyone about the Teen Leadership Camp December 6-8th; Kirk Alexander gave a wrap up of the recent build in Mexico and discussed Rotary Project Hope and will provide more information to the Club as it becomes available; P. Jim Hunt discussed Santa Clothes and the need for more volunteers for the event; The weekly drawing began at $2,412 plus this week’s donations. The Ticket Winner who received $10 was Bob Werner;&nbsp; the Lawry’s Bucks went to Paul Kellogg; Deb Granda introduced our speaker, Glenn Meier, who gave a presentation on effective meetings and a very detailed speech on mindful planning and effective collaboration; President Jackie presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for November 14, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  12. 98

    Sheriff Joseph Lombardo - LVMPD

    The Wheel for October 31, 2019 Listen to Sheriff Joseph Lombardo &#8211; LVMPD The Wheel Download Sheriff Joseph Lombardo &#8211; LVMPD Sheriff Joseph Lombardo began his law enforcement career in 1988 as a police officer with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD). He was promoted to the position of Police Sergeant in 1996. During his time as a Sergeant, Sheriff Lombardo was awarded the Meritorious Service Award for outstanding service to the Las Vegas community. Sheriff Lombardo was promoted to the position of Lieutenant in 2001 and served the department in various capacities at this rank, including Patrol Lieutenant, Executive Lieutenant to the Sheriff, and Search/Rescue Commander. Sheriff Lombardo was promoted to Captain in 2006 and served as the Bureau Commander for the Southwest Area Command and subsequently, the Bureau Commander for Homeland Security. In 2008, Sheriff Lombardo was appointed as a Deputy Chief, serving as Division Commander of Support Operations, and he eventually became the Division Commander of the Patrol Division. His tasks included overseeing Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT), canine units, traffic, air support, and vice/narcotics programs. Sheriff Lombardo was promoted to the position of Assistant Sheriff in 2011, where he was responsible of the Law Enforcement Services Group. This position manages the Administrative and Sciences, Professional Standards, and Technology and Support Divisions. Additionally, he managed the build-out and implementation of the new Project 25 Simulcast Phase II radio system for the LVMPD. After 26 years on the force, Lombardo retired as a commissioned officer and was elected in 2014 as Sheriff of Clark County. In 2006, he completed his Masters of Science from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, as well as completing the 227th Session of the FBI National Academy. He is a 2013 graduate of the Major Cities Chiefs Association (MCCA) Police Executive Leadership Development Program. Sheriff Lombardo maintains professional affiliations to include Major Cities Chiefs Association (MCCA), Major County Sheriffs Association (MCSA), National Sheriffs Association (NSA), FBI – Law Enforcement Executive Development Association (LEEDA), Nevada Commission for Homeland Security, and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) National Academy Associates. He also has served as Board Member for the Board of Directors LVMPD Foundation (2007-2014), Board of Directors Goodwill of Southern Nevada (2007-2009), Committee Member for the NV Communications Steering Committee 2012-2014 and MCC’s representative to the Public Safety Advisory Committee (2012-2014). Message From The President Dear Rotarians, Happy Halloween Everyone! &nbsp; How did Halloween come about? Halloween is an annual holiday celebrated each year on October 31, and Halloween 2019 occurs on Thursday, October 31. For many people I know, it is their favorite holiday! Its origins began centuries ago with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to honor all saints. All Saints Day, now a Catholic Holy Day followed by All Souls Day, incorporated some of the traditions of Samhain. The evening before was known as All Hallows Eve, and later Halloween. Over time, Halloween evolved into a day of activities like trick-or-treating, carving jack-o-lanterns, festive gatherings, donning costumes and eating treats, all the fun stuff! How did the practice of Trick-or-Treating begin? Borrowing from European traditions, Americans began to dress up in costumes and go house to house asking for food or money, a practice that eventually became today’s “trick-or-treat” tradition. I remember as a kid asking for “pennies for UINCEF,” a United Nations children’s fund still in place today. Trick-or-Treat for money and candy of course! By the 1920s and 1930s, Halloween had become a secular but community-centered holiday, with parades and town-wide Halloween parties as the featured entertainment. What about the Trick part of Trick-or-Treat? Between 1920 and 1950, the centuries-old practice of trick-or-treating was also revived. Trick-or-treating was a relatively inexpensive way for an entire community to share the Halloween celebration. In theory, families could also prevent tricks being played on them by providing the neighborhood children with small treats. Well? Did it work? Thus, a new American tradition was born, and it has continued to grow. Today, Americans spend an estimated $6 billion annually on Halloween, making it the country’s second largest commercial holiday after Christmas. Scary Halloween movies have a long history of being box office hits. Classic Halloween movies include “Halloween” and slasher films like “Scream,” “Nightmare of Elm Street,” and “Friday the 13th,” parts 1 through 25 it seemed! Today’s Halloween ghosts are often depicted as more fearsome and malevolent, and our customs and superstitions are scarier too. We avoid crossing paths with black cats, afraid that they might bring us bad luck, and walking under ladders, watch out Jerry! Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights Tina Bishop led the invocation. Stu Lipoff’s Virtual Green Book for online signups. President Jackie presented our speaker Dr. Michelle Paul with our “Share What You Can Award”. President Jackie and PP Jim Kohl presented a check for $12,500 to the YMCA of Southern Nevada. PP Randy Campanale informed us that our foundation fund is currently at $2.2 Million. PP Jim Kohl missed the shot at the Joker. PP Jim Hunt reminded us of the upcoming cigar social get together. Michael Williams announced that there are only a few tickets left for the Peace Conference. Kirk Alexander won the Lawry&#8217;s Bucks. Kim Nyoni and President Jackie joined in song. Jimmelle and our Sergeant-At-Arms Deb Granda team up for a photo moment. janice-lencke-brougJanice Lencke brought us up to date on our annual fundraiser. It is that time again…lets load up the Polio Pig for a last push to eradicate polio. Bob Werner was complaining about never getting his picture taken. At President Jackie’s head table were Barbara Billitzer, Val Hatley and our speaker Dr. Michelle Paul. Scribe &#8211; October 24, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: October 24, 2019 President Jacqueline Thornhill called the meeting to order; Tina Bishop gave the invocation; Kim Nyoni led the club in singing “It’s a Beautiful Day in The Neighborhood;” Deb Granda was the Sergeant-at-Arms; There was (1) International Rotarian, (1) Visiting Rotarian and (4) Guests of Rotarians; President Jackie reminded the club that she is still accepting photos for our “People of Action” Campaign. She also announced that the Rotary International Convention is June 6-10, 2020 in Honolulu, HI; PP Jim Kohl presented the YMCA with a check for $12,500 on behalf of Howard &#038; Howard Law Firm and The Las Vegas Rotary Foundation; Bill Houghton announced that October 24th is World Polio Day and he passed the Polio Pig around for donations. He also showed a video and announced that Pakistan and Afghanistan are the only countries left that still have reported cases of polio; Stu Lipoff reviewed how to use the virtual green book ; PP Randy Campanale informed the club that we are currently at $2.2 million in the Las Vegas Rotary Foundation’s permanent fund; 25 Club President Jimelle Trijo did a recap of the Halloween Party that raised $672; Janice Lencke announced that the Rotary Holiday Party will be held at Dragon Ridge Country Club on December 5, 2019 at 6pm; Janice Lencke announced that the fundraising committee is in need of sponsors for the upcoming Cuisine and Octane event; President Jackie announced that the Beckley Harvest Festival was the most successful, yet! The school was very appreciative of all the candy that the Rotary Club donated, and they have candy left over; President Jackie recognized the host families who made the Open World event a success; Kim Nyoni announced that the next Wine to Water event will be held on November 14, 2019 PP Jim Hunt announced that the next Cigar Fellowship will be held on October 25, 2019 at 6pm at PP Randy Donald’s home; PP Jim Hunt encouraged the club to secure volunteers for Santa Clothes as soon as possible. Dr. Michael Williams reminded the club of the upcoming Rotary Peace Conference on November 16, 2019 at Treasure Island. Bill Houghton announced that the next TLC (Teen Leadership Conference) will be held in December in Big Bear Kirk Alexander announce that the Corazon Super Build will be in Tecate, Mexico and they plan to build (1) house for a deserving family President Jackie fined Dr Andy Kuniyuki $97 x 2 for being in the newspaper and for not knowing that he was in the newspaper PP Jim Kohl drew a card for the 50/50 raffle. He won $10 and donated it to the Polio Pig Kirk Alexander won the Lawry’s Bucks Kim Nyoni introduced the speaker, Dr. Michelle Paul, Associate Director of UNLV’s interdisciplinary community mental health training clinic, The PRACTICE. The PRACTICE is a community mental health clinic that is open to, not only UNLV student, but the Las Vegas community as well; <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for October 31, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  13. 97

    Dr. Michelle Paul – Suicide

    The Wheel for October 24, 2019 Listen to Dr. Michelle Paul &#8211; Suicide The Wheel Download Dr. Michelle Paul &#8211; Suicide Dr. Michelle Paul is a Psychologist and Associate Director of Clinical Training in the UNLV Psychology Doctoral training program. She also directs UNLV’s interdisciplinary community mental health training clinic: The Partnership for Research, Assessment, Counseling, Therapy and Innovative Clinical Education, also known as The PRACTICE. At The PRACTICE, psychology and counseling graduate students provide affordable and evidence-based psychotherapy and psychological assessment under expert faculty supervision. Dr. Paul earned her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Vermont in 1997 after completing her residency at the University of San Diego/VA Hospital Consortium. She has strong generalist clinical training with particular interests in children, families, and psychological assessment. She is also devoted to professional service at the local, state and national levels. For example, she was elected President of the Nevada Psychological Association and appointed by Governor Sandoval to the Nevada Board of Psychology, serving 3 years as its President. She was honored by UNLV and the Board of Regents with the 2018 Graduate Academic Advisor Award and by the Nevada Psychological Association with the 2019 “Outstanding Advocate for Psychology” Award. A fellow Nevadan since 1999, Dr. Paul is committed to applying her clinical and professional expertise to improving the mental health of our community. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, Today we are so fortunate to hear from Dr. Michelle Paul from the UNLV Psychology Doctoral Training program. I am especially interested to hear about mental health concerns with our veterans and active duty military. My father suffered from PTSD from his time serving during World War II. It was suppressed for decades until he went on a trans-pacific cruise stopping at many of the WWII sites his Navy ship battled during the war. It plagued him until the end of his life. I have also known a POW from the Vietnam war and I always wondered how he managed from day to day. As General William Tecumseh Sherman famously noted during the Civil War, “War is hell.” How Common Is PTSD Among Veterans? The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs reports that incidence of post-traumatic stress disorder among veterans varies depending on which conflict a service member was involved with. About 11 to 20 out of every 100 veterans (or between 11 and 20%) who served in operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom have PTSD in a given year. About 12 out of every 100 Gulf War Veterans (or 12%) have PTSD in a given year. About 15 out of every 100 Vietnam veterans (15%) were currently diagnosed with PTSD when the most recent study of them (the National Vietnam Veteran Readjustment Study) was conducted in the late 1980s. It’s believed that 30% of Vietnam veterans have had PTSD in their lifetime. Wow, these stats are very concerning. While the Veterans Administration has recognized the disorder and offers treatment, the recent headlines about vets waiting weeks or months for an appointment has Americans apalled. Thankfully, now vets and active duty military can turn to private medical and mental healthcare. What About the Kids? Our club’s mission statement spells out what our focus is. “Teaching youth to succeed through literacy, education and life skills development.” So naturally we are concerned with mental health issues in kids. How pervasive is it? Are the kids getting the help they need? Are the parents in some cases refusing to acknowledge that there is a problem? When the parents do acknowledge that a problem exists, do they know where to go for help? According to the CDC: ADHD, behavior problems, anxiety, and depression are the most commonly diagnosed mental disorders in children Depression and anxiety have increased over time Treatment rates vary among different mental disorders; Good news, on the average, 50% or better are getting help. Mental, behavioral, and developmental disorders begin in early childhood Rates of mental disorders change with age, generally increasing Many family, community, and healthcare factors are related to children’s mental health such as socio-economic factors Early diagnosis and appropriate services for children and their families can make a difference in the lives of these children. Access to providers who can offer services, including screening, referrals, and treatment, varies by location. Our vets, active duty military and kids deserve the resources and services needed to help them live active and happy lives. Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights Steve Dixon missed his chance at the Joker. Sergeant at Arms Rene Gamero and Eric Astramecki announced our next annual fundraiser committee meeting. Rosalee and Janet Linder inducted our newest member Mike Mewborm. President Jackie exchanges banners with our new Member Mike Newborm formerly with the Rotary Club of San Diego. President Jackie is eager to start the meeting. President Jackie exchanged banners with our delegate from Ukraine. PP Russ Swain pauses for a picture with Jimmelle and Rampur. PP Michael Gordon led us in singing “God Bless America”. PP Jim Hunt gave a Santa Clothes presentation to start this year&#8217;s event. Our Open World delegation from Ukraine sing their national anthem. Melanie Muldowney awarded Paul Harris Fellowships to Marie Walsh, Janelle Lozano, past Secretary Susan Ziobro and Major Donor Level 2 to her father Tom Krob. Carolyn Sparks won the Lawry Bucks. Brian Sorrentino led with his invocation. Bob Werner exchanged banners with a guest from his homeland in Switzerland. At President Jackie’s head table were Karen Whisenhunt and delegates from Ukraine Olena Balybina and Liudmyla Ivashchenko. Scribe &#8211; October 17, 2019  Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  October 17, 2019  President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order; Brian Sorrentino gave the invocation; P.P. Michael Gordon  led the club in singing “God Bless America”, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance; The Sergeant at Arms was Rene Gamero; There were (2) International Rotarians, (2) visiting Rotarians and (4) Guests of Rotarians introduced; President Jackie reminded the club about the Together We Read Pilot Program.  All Rotarians were encouraged to reach out to President Jackie, Toni Kern or Kathy Mahon to get involved.  She also reminded the club of the International Convention in Hawaii. Additionally, there are no updates to 140 Project; Melanie Muldowney did a special presentation of new Paul Harris Fellows: Janelle Lozano and Susan Ziobro, John Ingeme presented Marie Walsh with her honor, and lastly, Melanie presented P.P. Tom Krob with his honor of Major Donor Level 2; Rosalee Hedrick and Janet Linder welcomed our newest member Mike Mewborn  with a new member induction.  Jim Hunt did a special presentation to kick off Santa Clothes; Jimmelle Siarot reminded the Club that the canned food drive is still going;  Toni Kern announced the holiday party with a theme of holidays with Paul Harris at Dragon Ridge Country Club on December 5th.  Rene Gamero reminded the Club about the Halloween Party Saturday at Russ Swain’s house. Marie Walsh reminded the club about the Harvest Festival at Beckley Elementary on Friday and also Breakfast with Books on November 12th.  Stuart Lipoff announced the next wine to water event  at Dave Lester’s house on November 14.   Eric Astramecki announced the annual fundraiser committee meeting immediately after the meeting.  The event will be held April 25, 2020.   Michael Williams reminded the club about the Peace Conference on November 16th at Treasure Island.  P.P. Tom Krob announced the Cigar Social on October 25th.  Bill Houghton reminded everyone about the Teen Leadership Camp December 6-8th.   The weekly drawing began at $1,864.00 plus this week’s donations.  The Ticket Winner who received $10 was Steve Dixon;  the Lawry’s Bucks went to Carolyn Sparks.  There were two additional raffles of Arlene Sirois’ recently published books that went to Richard Jost and Bill Houghton; P.P. Karen Whisenhunt introduced the Ukrainian delegation the Club hosted for Open World.  The visitors discussed their time in Las Vegas and lessons learned while they were here; President Jackie then adjourned the meeting. &nbsp; <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for October 24, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    Open World Delegation from Ukraine visits Las Vegas

    The Wheel for October 17, 2019 Listen to Open World Delegation from Ukraine visits Las Vegas! The Wheel Download Open World Delegation from Ukraine visits Las Vegas! This year, The Rotary Foundation celebrates 20 years participating in the Open World Program. Congress established the program in 1999 to enhance understanding between the United States and Russia which has since expanded to include Eurasia. The program gives emerging leaders a firsthand look at the U.S. political system, business environment and community life. It is managed by the Open World Leadership Center, an independent federal agency headquartered at the Library of Congress. Nonprofits such as Rotary, host delegations form Eurasia throughout the United States. The delegates start with an orientation in DC prior to traveling to the various cities. They stay in their host city for one week before returning home. The Open World program has various themes to participate in. This year, our theme is “Educational – Medical Issues” with a strong focus on Autism. Our delegation is from Ukraine. The group consists of five delegates, a facilitator who travels from the Ukraine with the group and one professional interpreter. The excited delegation arrived last Friday and will return home on Saturday. One of the delegates, Liudmyla Ivashchenlo is a Rotarian from the Poltava Rotary Club. The Poltava Rotary club is working with local schools helping them to implement inclusive education programs. Throughout the week the delegation will visit various K through 12 schools, UNLV, organizations involved in special needs and non-profit organizations. One of the highlights for the week is a tour of Opportunity Village as their clients will prepare lunch for the delegation. The delegation is specifically interested in learning about Autism with a hope to develop programs in Ukraine. Today we welcome delegates, Olena Balybina, Liudmyla Ivashchenko, Yana Khalimon, Vitaliia Patrusheva, Nadiia Tsarynna, facilitator Dana Kavara, and interpreter: Tatiana (Tanya) Lukenbill to the Las Vegas Rotary Club. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, This week we are truly honored to be hosting an Open World delegation from Ukraine. It has been several years since the last Open World Rule of Law was hosted by our club. This year’s delegation has a different focus, medical education. Open World began in 1999 and is sponsored by Congress which supports bipartisan outreach to Eurasian countries. “Aimed at establishing mutually beneficial relationships between future leaders of other nations, Open World is a value-added program that permits practical and depoliticized options for engagement.” Since the program began in 1999, Rotary Clubs in 48 States and the District of Columbia have hosted 3,270 Open World participants, about 13% of all the 25,000 participants. Observing their professional counterparts in the US, they get a up close and personal look at the American system of democracy and free enterprise. PP Karen Whisenhunt and her committee have put together a very full schedule of business and cultural activities that meet the criteria of medical education focus with emphasis on Autism. The delegation will spend a week in Las Vegas after a two-day training Washington DC. The Las Vegas Rotary Club also has support and volunteers from some other Rotary Clubs in the Las Vegas area. The delegates will be visiting these clubs for activities during their weeklong stay. Rotary Clubs host the delegates in their homes thereby giving the delegates a look at American family and community life. Through this cultural exchange, the host families get a unique opportunity to gain better international understanding. Delegations consist of political and civic leaders selected through a competitive vetting process. Open World has always focused on recruiting leaders who came of age in the post-Soviet era—a goal that was reemphasized in 2011, when the program launched an initiative to have 30 percent of each year’s delegates be younger than 30. It appears that the millennials both here and Ukraine have a special emphasis on being the legacy in both countries. Open World is funded through grants and since inception in 1991, 61 hosting grants have been awarded. “By the end of 2016, over 600 local host organizations—including universities and community colleges, Rotary clubs and other service organizations, sister-city associations, local government agencies, and international visitor councils and other nonprofits in all 50 states and the District of Columbia—had conducted Open World exchanges for the Center. Over 8,000 American families have hosted participants in 2,400-plus communities around the country. On behalf of the Rotary Club of Las Vegas, I would like to thank all the volunteers who are making this possible. The committee chairs, host families, drivers, evening event hosts, speakers and session presenters, entities/people who donated anything to the events, session planners and all the other Rotary Clubs in Las Vegas who pitched in to make this a most memorable experience for the delegation and the community. We are looking so forward to seeing what the delegation and our club membership experience together as we demonstrate how “Rotary Connects the World.” Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights Here he goes again…with Toni Kern…Nice picture. Marie Walsh and Beckley principal Shannon Brown discuss the success of our first Breakfast with Books. Murray from Canada missed his chance at the joker. New member Chase Carter led the invocation. PE Richard Jost led us in song. PP Jim Hunt shows an enthusiastic smile while giving details on our cigar social function. PP Steve Linder will not let Russ Swain have the mike….Russ was recognized for supporting our UNLV tailgate party. President Jackie, Janet Linder and Rosalee inducted Paul’s guest Maria Calvo as our newest member. President Jackie presents our “Share What You Can Award’ to our speaker Lt. Kimberly Brodeur. Seated at President Jackie’s head table was Janet Linder, Arleen Sirois and our speaker and member of our club Lt. Kimberly Brodeur. Sergeant at Arms PP Steve Linder photo bombed his wife Janet while she was making her announcements. Stu Lipoff discusses the ways to sign up for events on line. Wow! 2 weeks in a row Jaime wins the Lawry Bucks. Scribe &#8211; October 10, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: October 10. 2019 &nbsp; President Jackie called the meeting to order; Chase Carter gave the invocation; Richard Jost led the Club singing Star Spangled Banner, which was really My Country Tis of Thee, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance; Sergeant at Arms was PP Steve Linder; International Rotarians(1), Visiting Rotarians(0), Guests of Rotarians(6); President Jackie introduced the Head Table Janet Linder, Arlene Sirois, Lt. Kimberly Brodeur; President Jackie reminded our International Convention in Hawaii from June 6 to 10. Our new RI project Together, We Read, pilot program ends 11/1; Chan Lam was awarded 100% Perfect Attendance for one year; Principal Shannon Brown congratulated Brian Sorrentino for his first time attending Breakfast with Books; Thanked everyone who donated candy and reminded the Harvest Festival will be on October 18th from 4 to 6; Rosalee Hedrick and Janet Linder inducted new member Maria Calvo, sponsor is Paul Kruger; Jimmelle reminded that the Canned Food Drive is still ongoing. Donations are welcome in the Green Book or reach out Shawn to donate. And participate on our upcoming Canned Food Fundraising events: Halloween Party and Cigar Social; Janet Linder gave us an update on the Orientation Meeting held in her home last Tuesday. The turnout was awesome; Toni Kern announced the Holiday Party on Dec 5th with Paul Harris Theme will be held at Dragon Ridge Country Club $75/person. Sign up will be in the Green Book; Rene Gamero announced the Halloween party Oct 19th at Russ Swain&#8217;s house 6 Fire dancers will be performing, catered by Anil&#8217;s B Twist Catering; Marie Walsh gave an update on Breakfast with Books. 16 Rotarians volunteered on October 8th. Total 297 people attended. Also thanked for all who donated candy for the Harvest Festival; Karen Whisenhunt announced the Open World. Thanked the host families for welcoming the delegates from Ukraine. Stu Lipoff announced the Wine to Water event on November 14th 5:30 @ Dave Lester&#8217;s house $10 fee to cover the food; PE Richard Jost announced the Annual Fundraiser will have a new name and and logo. Looking for a Co-Chair for Fundraising Committee. Michael Williams announced the Peace Conference on November 16th at Treasure Island for $35. TLC will be Dec 6 to 8; Anil Melnick updated 45 Rotarians and guests attended the UNLV Tailgate party; PP Jim Hunt announced the Cigar Social this coming October 25th at Randy Donald&#8217;s house at 6pm; Kirk Alexander announced the Super Build in Tecate Mexico on November 2- 3. PP Jim Kohl was fined for his condition; he fell that&#8217;s why he is on crutches. PP Russ Swain happily accepted a fine of $97. Murray from Calgary won the raffle and Lawry&#8217;s Gift Cards went to Jaime Goldsmith; Dr. Andy Kuniyuki introduced our speaker, Lt. Kimberly Brodeur; President Jackie presented the &#8220;Share What You Can Award to our speaker and adjourned the meeting; <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for October 17, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    Kimberly Brodeur – Lieutenant LVMPD Corrections

    The Wheel for October 10, 2019 Listen to Kimberly Brodeur &#8211; Lieutenant LVMPD Corrections The Wheel Download Kimberly Brodeur &#8211; Lieutenant LVMPD Corrections Kimberly Brodeur is the Booking Lieutenant on C Platoon at the Clark County Detention Center (CCDC) with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.  118 law enforcement agencies can book inmates into CCDC, where the majority of the population is male and the average monthly bookings are now over 6,000. Kimberly has been a member of LVMPD for almost 20 years and has held numerous positions, such as Classification Sergeant, Field Services Officer, Control Room Operator, North Tower Bureau officer, South Tower Bureau officer, North Valley Complex Sergeant, Field Training Officer, Honor Guard member, Prisoner Transport for SEAC and SCAC, Terrorist Liaison officer, and was the Watch Commander at CCDC when Oct. 1, 2017 unfolded.  Kimberly also maintains Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, and Supervisory POST certificates.  She has been a part of numerous special projects and changes at the facility.  Lt. Brodeur received her Bachelor’s Degree from Pacific University in Accounting and Japanese and a certificate from Nagoya Gakuin University for Japanese proficiency after studying abroad.  She received her Master of Science Degree at UNLV in Crisis and Emergency Management and also attended Northwestern University’s School of Police and Command Staff.  Kimberly also spent 11 years in the U.S. Army Reserves where she completed her career as Drill Sergeant.  She has also been a successful Realtor for 17 years for Century 21.  She has a blended family where they call themselves The Brodeur Bunch due to having six children and often an exchange student in their household. Kimberly credits Rotary’s Youth Exchange Program for being the person she is today.  In 1991-92 she was an exchange student from a small, poor town in Idaho to Australia with an amazing Rotary mentor who always pushed and challenged her.  She is now the District 5300’s Youth Exchange Chair and is active in promoting the youth exchange program in hopes of changing other people’s lives.  Her own children have studied abroad in Switzerland, Argentina, and Taiwan. Lt. Brodeur plans to retire from LVMPD in just over a year and wants to educate the community about the Clark County Detention Center and its impact on the community Message From The President Dear Rotarians, This week, I want to share with you, the membership, the goals I have set for this year. First, is the Canned Food Drive. The 25 Club has been working diligently to raise funds to help restock the Salvation Army food bank. Please support their efforts by attending the upcoming fundraisers, the Halloween Party, and the Cigar Social. Proceeds from both will benefit the Canned Food Drive. Please sign up in the Green Book to give an additional cash donation. Because, for the 14th straight year, losing to the Kiwanians is not an option! Santa Clothes, yes, it is right around the corner. Our goal for this 24th year would be to clothe more kids with a bigger budget. Several grants have already come in and this goal seems to be well on its way! For the Club, I have two goals. First, to start a Rotaract Club at one of the three colleges, UNLV, CSN or Nevada State. If any of you want to help, if you know anyone to speak with at any of these schools, please contact Bill Houghton or myself. We are currently working on a joint effort with another club. Second, the new Rotary International project, Together, We Read, is just a natural extension of what we are currently doing and helps us realize our Club Mission Statement. We are actively participating in the pilot program and have had several productive meetings with Spread the Word Nevada as one of the potential community partners. The two biggest year end goals are the District Governor’s Bell award (3rd year in a row) for large club and the Presidential Citation Platinum distinction. These last two depend on the goals that I set early in the year. Some things we have already achieved, some will be realized toward the end of the year and still others are ongoing throughout the year. We just introduced the 140 Project, our 4th quarter membership drive. It has been a while since we had a membership drive and the Membership Committee wanted to create a clearly defined project. This year our goal is 140 members, which equates to a net +9. We have had some resignations and some leaves of absence, so we wanted to incent the membership to invite some quality prospective members. You heard Rosalee Hedrick present the details of the 140 Project last week. I wanted to add that, even though classification is no longer a specific issue, we would, however, love to diversify the occupations of our members. Even though we are not a “Networking Club” as other groups in town, we nevertheless want to do business with people we like and trust. If you know people in the hotel industry, engineering, airport service, radio broadcasting, first responders, newspaper/magazine publishing, pool services, pet care, restaurants, sporting goods, to name just a few, invite them to lunch! Let us show them what the spirit and heart of Rotary is. Let us show them what a welcoming club we are. Let them see how Rotary connects the world! Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights Will the real birthday gals and guys please stand up… Janet Linder, Bruce Frazey, Joan Murdock and Brock Fraser. HAPPY BIRTHDAY! We were joined for lunch by Past District Governor Tom Novotny. Say Hi to PP Steve Casey …. Not skiing this week. SAA Toni Kern gives her friend Janet Linder a hug. President Jackie presented our speaker Kyle with our “Share What You Can Award”. President Jackie, Janet Linder, Tom Krob and Rosalee induct our newest member Bert Reiner. PP Tom Krob and Sergeant at Arms Toni announced details on the Cigar Social event. PP Russ Swain won the Bid to join a Golden Knight on the High Roller donated by Anil Melnick. PP Jim Kohl gave awards to all the members who had perfect attendance. PP Dave Thorson introduces our quarterly Wetzel Award winners. Marie Walsh led the invocation. Kirk Alexander announced the date for the upcoming Super Build project in Tecate Mexico. Jerry Engel led us in song with “Fly Me To The Moon”. Jaime Goldsmith won the Lawry Bucks. Carey Grohs announced the Halloween and Holiday parties. Bill Stieren missed the Joker but got $10 for the two of clubs. Bill Stephen was checking his tickets with the hope of winning. At President Jackie’s Head table were Anil Melnick, Ted McAdam and our speaker Kyle B. Rahn of the United Way. Scribe &#8211; October 3, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: October 3, 2019 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order. Marie Walsh gave the invocation; Jerry Engel led the club in singing “Fly me to the Moon”, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance; President Jackie led the club in the 4-Way Test; The Sergeant at Arms was Toni Kern; There were (0) International Rotarians, (1) visiting Rotarian and (5) Guests of Rotarians introduced; President Jackie reminded the club about the Together, We Read Pilot Program. All Rotarians were encouraged to reach out to President Jackie, Toni Kern or Kathy Mahon to get involved. She also reminded the club of the International Convention in Hawaii. Additionally, there are no updates to 140 Project; P.P. Jim Kohl did a special presentation of 100% attendance awards to Rotarians with perfect attendance ranging from one year to 23 years (P.P. Russ Swain!) President Jackie then introduced the birthday table and with Ted McAdams leading, the club sang happy birthday; Rosalee Hendrick and Janet Linder welcomed our newest member Bert Reiner with a new member induction. Bert’s sponsor is P.P. Tom Krob. P.P. David Thorson did a special presentation to 4 of the 5 service members who received awards at the recent Wetzel Awards; Anil Melnick donated one spot to meet a team member of the Golden Knights on the High Roller for auction. The proceeds of which were donated to the canned food drive. P.P. Russ Swain was the highest bidder at $75; Rene Gamero reminded everyone about the canned food drive. Carey Grohs announced both the Halloween and holiday parties; Marie Walsh announced that she was still collecting candy for the Beckley Harvest Festival on October 18th and is looking for volunteers for the Festival. She also reminded everyone of the October 8th Breakfast with Books; P.P. Karen Whisenhunt reminded everyone that the Open World Program begins in two weeks and there will be a welcome dinner hosted; Eric Astramecki reminded the club of the annual fundraiser committee meeting after the meeting to discuss next year’s fundraiser which is tentatively set for April 25th. Anil Melnick reminded the club about the upcoming UNLV tailgate; Michael Williams reminded the club about the Peace Conference on November 16th at Treasure Island. Rosalee Hedrick reminded the club about the new member orientation on October 8th at the Linders’ home. P.P. Tom Krob announced the Cigar Social on October 25th. Bill Houghton reminded everyone about Teen Leadership Camp December 6-8th. Kirk Alexander announced a Super Build in Tecate on November 2nd; The weekly drawing began at $1,447.00 plus this week’s donations. The Ticket Winner who received $10 was Bill Stieren; the Lawry’s Bucks went to Jaime Goldsmith. There were two additional raffles of golfing foursomes donated by Rosalee Hedrick and Nevada State Bank that went to Jordan Micev and Mike Cudiamat; P.P. Michael Gordon introduced Kyle B. Rahn, President of United Way of Southern Nevada who discussed the efforts of United Way as well as the shift in focus through the organization including an emphasis on community needs; President Jackie presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for October 10, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    Kyle B. Rahn – United Way of Southern Nevada

    The Wheel for October 3, 2019 Listen to Kyle B. Rahn &#8211; United Way of Southern Nevada The Wheel Download Kyle B. Rahn &#8211; United Way of Southern Nevada With over 30 years of progressive experience across industries, ranging from private organizations to international nonprofits, Kyle B. Rahn is an expert in leading high performing teams, strengthening donor and board relations and creating strategic plans with a fundraising focus. As the first female President of United Way of Southern Nevada, Kyle is passionate about providing cradle to career support and increasing revenue to help more families, children, and individuals succeed. She’s intimately acquainted with leadership and development and working with and on behalf of those who need it most: the citizens of Clark County. Most recently from the National Society of Black Engineers, Kyle was the first white female hire in the 45-year history of the organization. At NSBE, as the Senior Director of Fund Development, she developed the entire fundraising strategy and moved the organization to a strategic partnership model resulting in organizational revenue growth of over 64%. Providing oversight to a $14M annual fundraising strategy, she worked to develop and expand the base of donors, corporations, and foundations that provided support for the Society’s mission. Before joining NSBE, Kyle led programs and initiatives that raised more than $30 million annually as Vice President of Resource Development for United Way of the National Capital Area. Kyle’s belief in the power of community is deeply rooted by her broad life experience and the United Way. Born into an entrepreneurial, community-minded family in Indiana, she watched her father and grandfather lead local United Way campaigns and saw the pivotal role that United Way played in the lives of their employees and the community. After growing up in the family business, she ventured out to management positions in the tech sector then launched her own marketing company before deciding to put her passion for helping people to work. Kyle began her nonprofit journey as the Director of U.S. Development for Mercy Ships International in 2007. Her success led to a three-year tenure as Director of Development for Cultural Tourism DC, supporting the organization’s promotion of the diverse diplomatic cultures and heritage of Washington, D.C. Kyle’s love of people and her passion for equity and inclusion have guided her work throughout her professional career. As President and CEO of United Way of Southern Nevada, she utilizes these attributes and her extensive experience to guide the organization’s cradle-to-career Community-based Agenda; overseeing its work with community partners to provide demonstrated measurable outcomes in early education, student success, post-secondary attainment, and workforce supports. Always an involved citizen, Kyle continues to serve in numerous volunteer positions in the community. United Way of Southern Nevada is part of a network of nearly 1,800 community-based United Ways in 45 countries and territories. United Way Worldwide is the largest nonprofit in the world, raising $5 billion annually in support of families and individuals in need. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, I had the wonderful pleasure of attending the Interact Conference this past Saturday. I and a member of the Summerlin Club facilitated one of the breakout sessions on the role of the President and their Board of Directors. How many of you know that we have a very active Interact Club at Clark High School? And, we are about to sponsor our second club. Maybe those of you who have been involved with RYLA, but what about the rest of you? This club has been active for several years and these kids, in addition to their local projects, show up with their faculty advisor, Luanne Wagner to help with Santa Clothes. Several of the kids I met on Saturday are also planning to help with Santa Clothes this year. So, what exactly is an Interact Club and how do they fit into Rotary? From Rotary International: “Interact is a service club for youth ages 12-18 who want to connect with other young people and have fun while serving their communities and learning about the world. Clubs, which meet at least twice a month, are sponsored by local Rotary Clubs. Interact Clubs organize at least two service projects each year, one that helps their school or community and one that promotes international understanding. Members of sponsor Rotary Clubs mentor Interactors as they carry out the projects and develop leadership skills.” How do the Interact Clubs recruit members? Well, LVRC members, do you have children or grandchildren in the age range? These kids are already familiar with Rotary and are eager to begin a Rotary experience. Kids who have just finished their amazing weekend experience at RYLA need a place to land to keep up the momentum. For a school-based club, seek the assistance of school officials as to how they recruit within the school. For community-based clubs, (several schools or community-based groups such as the Boys and Girls clubs,) reach out to community partners to form an Interact Club with their kids. We can also reach out to other Clubs. Up to three clubs can sponsor an Interact Club. This also helps to build connections within the local clubs. Remember RI International President Mark Daniel Maloney’s mission of “Rotary Connects the World.” Our world starts in our backyard. With our club at Clark High School and all interact clubs, project planning must include a risk management plan that evaluates potential risks and provides a solution for each. At the conference as I was asking the kids what their club projects are, one Club spoke of how they fill boxes of necessities for the homeless for distribution. I immediately asked how their boxes were distributed, (concerned that the kids may be directly involved,) but no, they gave the boxes to an organization who then distributed. A project where risk was assessed and the solution was put in place. In short, Rotary Clubs are tasked with mentoring, coaching and helping to oversee by attending their meetings and helping these kids grow into leaders, productive members, and future Rotarians. Youth is our legacy! Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights Sergeant at Arms Michael Cudiamat and Rosalee Hedrick introduce our speakers aide from UNLV Jennifer Vaughan. Rosalee Hedrick did a presentation on our 4th quarter membership drive. President Jackie thanks PP Tom Thomas for his dedication to our club by donating a new projector. President Jackie recognizes Jaime Goldsmith as the Rotarian of the month. President Jackie awarded our speaker Dean Nancy Uscher with our share what you can award. Mike Ballard led the invocation. Michael Williams announced the upcoming Peace conference. Janet Lencke showed off her Red Cuckoo purse from London. Who’s the Cuckoo the red head or the purse? Jaime Goldsmith and President Jackie sang “Home Means Nevada’. Erik Astramecki announced the details of our annual fundraiser meeting. Dave Lester won the chance to pull the joker and win the pot…..alas he pulled a 10. Carolyn Sparks won the Lawry&#8217;s Bucks. Carey Grohs announced ways to help our canned food drive. Bill Houghton urged members with teens in the family to attend our Team Leadership Camp. At President Jackie’s head table were Stu Lipoff, visiting from the Summerlin Club Diane Zapach and our speaker Dean Nancy Uscher of the UNLV College of Fine Arts. Scribe &#8211; September 26, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  September 26, 2019 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order. Mike Ballard gave the invocation; Jaime Goldsmith led the club in singing “Home Means Nevada”, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance; The Sergeant at Arms was Michael Cudiamat; There were (0) International Rotarians, (1) visiting Rotarian and (4) Guest of Rotarians introduced; President Jackie led the club in a moment in silence in remembrance of the lives lost at Route 91; President Jackie reminded the club about the Together We Read Pilot Program.  All Rotarians were encouraged to reach out to President Jackie, Toni Kern or Kathy Mahon to get involved.  She also reminded the club of the International Convention in Hawaii. President Jackie then informed the club that the recent balloon accident involved fellow Rotarian Kevin Cloney who is taking a leave of absence to recover; Since it was the 4th Thursday of the month, President Jackie announced the Rotarian of the Month: Jaime Goldsmith and recognized all of her hard work throughout the month of September; Rosalee Hedrick did a special presentation regarding the 4th quarter membership drive entitled 140 Project encouraging all members to bring guests and future potential Rotarians to events and lunch meetings.  She also announced a prize would be awarded to the Rotarian who is most successful in getting potential Rotarians through the interview process; Diane Zapach from the Summerlin District announced her club’s fundraiser and Harvest Wine Festival on October 8th. Rose Falocco raffled off 3 tickets to an upcoming Vegas Golden Knights game which sold for $225 – the proceeds of which were donated directly to the canned food drive.  Carey Grohs then announced additional ways to help the canned food drive: donate to the buckets on each table; the Halloween party; and direct donation in the green book. P.P. David Thorson reminded everyone of the Wetzel Awards immediately after the meeting.   Rene Gamero did a wrap up of the 25 club social and P.P. Jim Hunt reminded everyone that just because events are 25 club events doesn’t mean that all members should not attend. Marie Walsh announced that she was collecting candy for the Beckley Harvest Festival and will be accepting donations at the next few meetings.  She also reminded everyone of the October 8th Breakfast with Books. Eric Astramecki announced the annual fundraiser committee meeting on October 3rd to discuss next year’s fundraiser which is tentatively set for April 25th to discuss sponsorship packages.  Michael Williams reminded the club of the upcoming Peace Conference and the importance of attendance from all Rotarians.  President Jackie reminded the club about the upcoming UNLV tailgate. P.P. Jim Hunt announced the Cigar Social on October 25th.  Bill Houghton announced the Teen Leadership Camp December 6-8th and asked all Rotarians if they have family members who would like to attend as they will receive priority. The weekly drawing began at $1,306 plus this week’s donations.  The Ticket Winner who received $10 was Dave Wester;  the Lawry’s Bucks went to Carolyn Sparks; Stuart Lipoff introduced Nancy Uscher, Dean of the UNLV College of Fine Arts who discussed the wonderful work and future projects done by the college within the community. President Jackie presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting. &nbsp; <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for October 3, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    Dean Nancy Uscher – UNLV College of Fine Arts

    The Wheel for September 26, 2019 Listen to Dean Nancy Uscher &#8211; UNLV College of Fine Arts The Wheel Download Dean Nancy Uscher &#8211; UNLV College of Fine Arts Dr. Nancy J. Uscher is Dean of the College of Fine Arts and presidential professor of music. She oversees seven departments and schools, eight curated gallery spaces, including the Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art; six theatre venues, and the UNLV Performing Arts Center. Prior to joining UNLV in 2016, Dr. Uscher was president of Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle for five years. Before that, she was provost for seven years–and for six months co-acting president–of the California Institute of the Arts, where she also was on the music faculty. Dr. Uscher previously spent 12 years at the University of New Mexico as professor of music, and, at various times, associate provost, department chair and center director. She also taught in the women studies program. A concert violist, Dr. Uscher earned her bachelor’s degree in music at the Eastman School of Music of the University of Rochester in Rochester, NY, her master’s degree in music at the State University of New York at Stony Brook, and her Ph.D. from New York University. She also holds a certificate of advanced study and A.R.C.M. from the Royal College of Music in London and also studied at The Juilliard School in New York City. Dr. Uscher had an international career as a violist that spanned more than two decades, including six years as co-principal violist of the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra and performances on six continents. She has recorded works of Mendelssohn, Shostakovich, and Hindemith for the Stereophile and Musical Heritage Society labels. In addition to guest teaching and coaching in more than 20 countries, Dr. Uscher has authored two books and more than a score of articles, mainly for music publications. She is a past board member of the Association of Independent Colleges of Art and Design, and past vice chair and board member of the American Composers Forum. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, This week’s message is all about our club’s commitment to our active duty military recognition called the Wetzel Awards. I had the honor and privilege of facilitating these awards for 3 years. Now they are in the care of Past President, David Thorson. The Wetzel Story; Since the spring of 2003, the Las Vegas Rotary Club has been awarding every quarter 3, now 5, deserving airmen at Nellis Air Force Base. Awards winners are nominated by their Unit Commands at both Nellis and Creech Air Force bases and the eventual winners are recognized in a special quarterly ceremony at Nellis. This award is designed to thank airmen who don&#8217;t ordinarily receive awards, who are the backbone of the bases, do not seek recognition, and are &#8220;unsung heroes.&#8221; This award came about as a result of the involvement of and untimely death of Colonel Scotty Wetzel, a long-time member of the Las Vegas Rotary Club. Colonel Scotty Wetzel has an impressive resume. The very shortened version; After graduation from West Point in 1954, Scott chose the Air Force and started Pilot School at Hondo AFB, Texas. He later became air training officer for the first class of the Air Force Academy. He flew 217 combat missions over Vietnam, receiving several commendations. He later became the Wing Commander at Hahn AFB, Germany. His last assignment was with the Tactical Fighter Weapons Center at Nellis. He retired in 1984 after 30 years of active duty and his family remained in Las Vegas. During a tour by our Rotary Club of Nellis AFB in February of 2003, Scotty asked General Steve Wood, the Air Warfare Center Commander at the time, what the Las Vegas Rotary Club could do to support Nellis AFB. General Wood asked us to help honor the airmen who do good work at the base. Several weeks later Scotty had surgery and sadly, passed in the hospital. The Club Board decided to take General Wood&#8217;s request seriously. The club decided to award up to 5 airmen per quarter called the Wetzel Awards. In so doing, the Club honors the contribution and memory of Scotty Wetzel and honors deserving airmen at Nellis and Creech AFB at the same time. The award consists of giving each airman a night on the town with dinner at Lawry’s, a gift card to spend, and a local show. Their names are also etched on a special plaque that hangs in the Warfare Center. Mrs. Pat Wetzel, her two daughters Merry and Carol, and her grandchildren are usually in attendance each quarter. The latest winners have lunch with our Rotary Club at Lawry&#8217;s on the following Thursday. While there, they also receive a little more recognition and a framed certificate announcing that they are a recipient of a Wetzel Award. It is all about the airmen, not our Club. We have given out quarterly awards since 2003 and today marks 16 years, 62 quarters and approximately 256 recipients. The Las Vegas Rotary Club considers this event to be one of its flagship programs. Please join us for this wonderful recognition. Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights Toni Kern discussed our Books with Buddies program. Shucks…Carolyn Sparks missed the joker but received $10. Rosalee Hedrick and Janet Raven joined for lunch and a photo opportunity. President Jackie presented District Governor Luanne Arrendondo with our Share What You Can Award. P.P. Jim Kohl recapped our Project 150 fundraiser. P.P. Jim Hunt gave us an update on the upcoming cigar social at Randy Donald’s home. P.P. David Thorson reminded everyone of the upcoming Wetzel Awards on September 26th at 2:30. Michael Gordon reminded us of the upcoming Rugby tournaments. Kathy Mahon won this week&#8217;s Lawry bucks. Judith Pinkerton led us in singing “God Bless America”. Jimmelle and President Jackie receive checks from Jaime Goldsmith for Canned Food Drive Fundraisers. Carey Grohs led the invocation. At President Jackie’s head table were our speaker District Governor Luanne Arrendondo, PP Jim Kohl and PP Michael Gordon. Melanie Muldowney and Luanne presented Brian Rosenberg and Steve Dixon with Paul Harris Fellowships. Melanie Muldowney and Luanne presented Brian Rosenberg and Steve Dixon with Paul Harris Fellowships. Scribe &#8211; September 19, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: September 19, 2019 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order. Carey Grohs gave the invocation; Judith Pinkerton led the club in singing “God Bless America,” followed by the Pledge of Allegiance; The Sergeant at Arms was Jimmelle Siarot; There were (0) International Rotarians, (0) visiting Rotarians and (1) Guest of Rotarians introduced; President Jackie gave a reminder about the Together, We Read Pilot Program. All Rotarians were encouraged to reach out to President Jackie, Toni Kern or Kathy Mahon to get involved. She also reminded the club of the International Convention in Hawaii. President Jackie announced the grand total collected for District 6990’s disaster fund which was $5340. Toni Kern discussed STWN books with buddies and the mentor program. Melanie Muldowney did a presentation of awards to two Paul Harris Fellows: Brian Rosenberg and Steve Dixon; Jaime Goldsmith presented Jimmelle Siarot with two checks from recent events hosted to benefit the canned food drive: $200 from the Rockin’ Bettie fundraiser along with $50 from the raffle at the event; and $300 from the high tea at La Postté; recapped the project 150 fundraiser; Carey Grohs reminded the club about the canned food drive and the upcoming 25 club Halloween party on October 19th at P.P. Russ Swain’s house. Jaime Goldsmith gave a recap of the SOAR event. Kathy Mahon gave a recap of the high tea. P.P. David Thorson reminded everyone of the upcoming Wetzel Awards on September 26th at 2:30. Rene Gamero announced the 25 Club social on September 24th which is a tour of the Make a Wish wishing place with wine and cheese to follow. Rosalie Hendrick announced the upcoming new member orientation that will be held on October 8th at 6 p.m. at Francesca Gilbert’s house. She encouraged all Rotarians to attend. Francesca Gilbert reminded everyone of the upcoming tailgate and reminded the club that we need attendance of at least 20 people. The weekly drawing began at $1,306 plus this week’s donations. The Ticket Winner who received $10 was Carolyn Sparks; the Lawry’s Bucks went to Kathy Mahon; AG P.P. Michael Gordon introduced Luanne Arredondo, District 5300 Governor for 2019-2020 who discussed Vision of Rotary. President Jackie presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for September 26, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    Luanne “Lu” Arredondo – District Governor 2019-2020 – Vision of Rotary

    The Wheel For September 19, 2019 Listen to Luanne “Lu” Arredondo &#8211; District Governor 2019-2020 &#8211; Vision of Rotary The Wheel Download Luanne “Lu” Arredondo  District Governor 2019-2020 Vision of Rotary A fourth-generation Rotarian, Luanne “Lu” Arredondo was born in Colorado Springs, Colorado, raised on the family ranch in Corrales, New Mexico, and grew up the youngest daughter of 11 children. Paul Harris was often the focus of conversation at the dinner table – also a place where many of her life lessons about service to others originated. Luanne relocated to Southern California in 1989 where she would eventually meet and marry hubby Moises (aka “Moe”). Luanne graduated summa cum laude with a double Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and biology from the University of New Mexico. She went on to graduate magna cum laude with a double masters in finance and business administration from California State University, Los Angeles, specializing in change management. After 15 years of working at the executive level with Fortune 50 organizations, Luanne opened LA Business Consultants, LLC in 2005, growing it from a small one person office into an international film, finance, and change management organization. Luanne believes that we honor our blessings by giving of ourselves to those who need us most. She belongs to several organizations in her local community, including service as a commissioner on the Community and Senior Services Commission for West Covina. Luanne joined Rotary in March 2010 to continue the legacy of Rotary service in her family. Serving as a two-term president, Luanne and the Rotary Club of West Covina Sunrise earned the coveted Governors Bell Award, and she received Rotary International’s recognition as Rotarian of the Year. Luanne has served in several posts at the club level including public relations, website administrator, co-treasurer, club secretary, Interact liaison, and member of the board of directors. At the District level Luanne has served as PR chair, international projects co-chair, district conference chair, assistant governor, community outreach chair, peace conference administrator, and trainer. When not busy at work or in service to others, Luanne and Moises enjoy spending time with their three children, Josh (age 30), Zack (age 28), and Bryan (age 16). They enjoy camping, fishing, back-yard BBQ, softball, and board games. For Luanne and Moe Rotary is more than just a passion for humanitarianism and doing good in the world. It is an organization that recognizes the value of family and the impact we have when we work together. Luanne’s greatest inspiration comes from the work and efforts of fellow Rotarians and their families. She believes that our successes toward eradicating polio, creating peace in the world, eliminating inequities, and developing a better world for our youth begin with the sincere goodness in our hearts and simple random acts of kindness. Luanne looks forward to proudly and humbly serving as your District Governor in 2019-2020. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, A few weeks ago, I discussed how Rotary Action Groups connect the world of Rotarians. As a refresher, RAGs are global groups of Rotarians and others who are experts in many fields and can offer help and resources for a specific project at the Club or District Level. The other way to connect the world is through a Rotary Fellowship. From RI’s website, “Rotary Fellowships are international groups that share a common passion. Being part of a fellowship is a fun way to make friends around the world, explore a hobby or profession, and enhance your Rotary experience.” They differ from Rotary Action Groups is that they are more hobby focused where a Rotarian can find other members from around the world who share a similar passion or hobby. While there are a few Rotary Fellowships that are focused on a profession, the majority are hobby based. Imagine if you are an avid skier. There is a Rotary Fellowship for you. How cool would it be to connect to skiers all over the world and join some members for a ski holiday in the Swiss Alps. PP Dave T, there is a Water Polo Fellowship. Captain Kirk, there is an Internet Fellowship. Rose F, there is an Italian Culture Fellowship. Judith P there is a Music Fellowship. Tina B there is a Photography Fellowship. Ted M, Steve L, Greg M, there is a Military Veterans Fellowship. Attorneys, there is one for you, Lawyers. Canoeing, Yoga, Wine, Beer, Doll lovers, Doctors, Recreational Vehicles, Railroads, Chess and the list goes on and on. Want to make Rotarian friends around the world and share your passion? Rotary Fellowships are the way to go. Make lasting friendships outside your club, district and country. Rotary Fellowships serve to advance Rotary’s public image and identity and can serve as an incentive for joining and maintaining active membership. As an organization, just as Rotary Action Groups, Rotary Fellowships function separately from RI by establishing their own structure, dues requirements and rules. While Rotary Action Groups are open to a wide group of professional people who may be outside of Rotary, Rotary Fellowships are open to Rotarians, their family members, and alumni of Rotary and all Foundation programs. Go to RI’s website for more information and find a very, very long list of established Fellowships and a way to contact them for more information. Each Fellowship has a hot link to their landing page with a description of who, what, where, how and why! If you can’t find a Fellowship in the immense long list of Fellowships, you can start your own. There is a brochure available for download on RI’s website that details the steps. I have a goal of one club member joining a Rotary Action Group and one club member joining Rotary Fellowship. Let our club know how much you are enjoying your Group or Fellowship and help our club be a part of President Maloney’s mission of “Rotary Connects the World!” Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights Steve Kwon missed the Joker but picked the $50 Ace. Rose Falocco auctioned off 4 Golden Knights tickets for the benefit of hurricane relief. Rose’s guest won the Lawry Bucks. Rene Gamero announced our 25 Club Social at the Make a Wish wishing place. Principal Shannon Brown from Beckley Elementary and Sergeant at Arms Carey Grohs join for a photo moment. President Jackie presented our guest from WGU with our Share What You Can Award. President Jackie presented Erik Astramecki with his long lost sports coat…..at the cost of a recognition fine. President Jackie, Rosalee Hedrick and Janet Linder inducted our new member Chase Carter from St Jude. PP Steve Linder led us in song. PP Jim Kohl led the invocation. PP’s Russ Swain and Randy Donald pose for a pic. Jimmelle gave us a recap of the Rockin&#8217; Bettie fundraiser. Jerry Engel and Diane Clarey hold up a makeup Banner from Capetown Africa. Go RB (Robert Brinton) whose high bid won the tickets. Bob Werner exchanged banners with a visiting Rotarian from Canada. At President Jackie’s head table were our Speaker Dr. Spencer Stewart, Tina Bishop and Toni Kern. Scribe &#8211; September 12, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  September 12, 2019 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order. P.P. Jim Kohl gave the invocation; P.P. Steve Linder led the club in singing “America the Beautiful”, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance; The Sergeant at Arms was Carey Grohs; There was (1) International Rotarian, (0) visiting Rotarians and (8) Guests of Rotarians introduced; President Jackie gave a reminder about the Together We Read Pilot Program.  All Rotarians were encouraged to reach out to Toni Kern and Kathy Mahon  to get involved.  She also reminded the club of the International Convention in Hawaii. President Jackie announced the intention to donate to the Robbins Fund in the green book.  $500 has been budgeted from the Foundation in addition to member donations to District 6990 for disaster relief; President Jackie then led the club in a moment of silence in remembrance of those we lost of September 11, 2001. Principal Shannon Brown gave an update from Beckley and the results of Breakfast with Books.  There were 309 parents and students in attendance; Rose Falocco donated four tickets to a Golden Knight’s game to the club to auction off toward the disaster relief efforts.  President Jackie auctioned off the tickets to Robert Brinton for a grand total of $800; Jimmelle Siarot gave a recap of the Rockin’ Bettie fundraiser.  $250 was raised at the event toward the canned food drive.    P.P. David Thorson reminded everyone of the upcoming Wetzel Awards on September 26th at 2:30.  Rene Gamero announced the 25 Club social on September 24th which is a tour of the Make a Wish wishing place. Jamie Goldsmith reminded everyone of SOAR ceremony at Las Vegas City Hall on September 16th and said the largest need is attendance; Kathy Mahon reminded everyone of the high tea on September 15th at La Postté benefiting the canned food drive; President Jackie reminded the club of the 30th annual Peace Conference at Treasure Island on November 16th.  P.P. Russ Swain announced the UNLV tailgate on October 5th at 5:30 in the Scarlett parking lot.  P.P. Jim Tucker announced all of the space in the Wheel has been filled, but there are still ads available in the roster. Jerry Engle told the club about his recent trip to Africa and his rotary experiences while he was there and President Jackie  presented Eric Astramecki with his long lost sport coat. The weekly drawing began at $1,170 plus this week’s donations.  The Ticket Winner who drew an ace and received $50 was Steve Kwon;  the Lawry’s Bucks went to a guest; Dr. Andy Kuniyuki introduced Dr. Spencer Stewart, Chancellor of WGU, an online, nonprofit, competency-based university who discussed the concepts behind WGU’s structure and success of the university since inception. President Jackie presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel For September 19, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    Dr. Spencer Stewart – State of Higher Education & the Role of WGU in Nevada

    The Wheel For September 12, 2019 Listen to Dr. Spencer Stewart – State of Higher Education &amp; the Role of WGU in Nevada The Wheel Download Dr. Spencer Stewart – State of Higher Education &amp; the Role of WGU in Nevada Dr. Spencer Stewart serves as the Chancellor of WGU Nevada, an online, nonprofit, competency-based university established to expand Nevadans’ access to higher education throughout the state. As Chancellor, Dr. Stewart has successfully guided WGU Nevada since its inception in mid-2015. Under his leadership, the university has increased its enrollment to more than 3,300 students, making it Nevada’s fastest growing higher education institution. WGU Nevada has also held two commencements and a regional commencement in Nevada, honoring more than 1,500 graduates who have completed bachelor’s or master’s degrees. Dr. Stewart works closely with WGU Nevada’s Advisory Board of senior business, community, and education leaders from across the state. Together, the board works to expand access to higher education for working adults in Nevada. Endorsed by Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval, WGU Nevada offers over 60 accredited degree programs that align with Nevada’s growing demand in four industry sectors: information technology, health care, teacher education, and business. In addition to his leadership role at WGU Nevada, Dr. Stewart has spearheaded many community outreach efforts throughout the state and serves on a few boards, including the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance, that endeavor to strengthen and advance a community’s human capital. Before joining WGU, Dr. Stewart worked with the Nevada System of Higher Education, helping build Nevada’s first state college: Nevada State College. While at NSC, Stewart was intimately involved in the development, management and operations of the college, beginning with four full-time employees and 177 students in 2001-02 with an annual budget of $500,000 and evolving to more than 175 full-time employees and 3,500 students in 2015 with an annual budget of approximately $20 million. Dr. Stewart earned a doctorate degree from the University of Pennsylvania, a master&#8217;s degree from the University of Nevada Las Vegas, and a bachelor&#8217;s degree from Brigham Young University. A native Nevadan, Dr. Stewart resides in Henderson with his wife and three children. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, From the History.com website, “On September 11, 2001, 19 militants associated with the Islamic extremist group al-Qaida hijacked four airplanes and carried out suicide attacks against targets in the United States. Two of the planes were flown into the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, a third plane hit the Pentagon just outside Washington, D.C., and the fourth plane crashed in a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Almost 3,000 people were killed during the 9/11 terrorist attacks, which triggered major U.S. initiatives to combat terrorism and defined the presidency of George W. Bush. It has been 18 years since that awful day. The Day when the people of the United States of America came together and recognized the real threat not only to our way of life but to the stability of the world. Now, that so much time has passed, exactly what has happened in subsequent years in terms of preparedness in case of another such event? The Homeland Security Act of 2002 created the Department of Homeland Security. It was signed into law by President George W. Bush on November 25, 2002. Today, the Department of Homeland Security is headed by a cabinet secretary and is responsible for preventing terror attacks, border security, immigrations and customs and disaster relief and prevention. The effects of 9/11 were an immediate jolt to the US Economy. Wall Street shut down, and New York City in general lost thousands of jobs and billions in lost wages. First responders and people living near ground zero were exposed to toxic fumes and particles. Thankfully, the Victim’s Compensation Fund which was depleted has been extended to 2092 after several 9/11 first responders and others testified before Congress and President Trump signed into law on July 29, 2019. On December 18, 2001 Congress approved naming 9/11 as Patriot Day and in 2009 named September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance. How can each of us Rotarians mark this day with service? What community service projects does our club sponsor that each of us can become involved with to commemorate this year’s National Day of Service and Remembrance. I challenge each of our club members to volunteer for an extra project during this Rotary year and demonstrate how “Service above Self” is a daily part of our lives. Plan to attend the 30th Annual Peace Conference and hear some exceptional speakers and how they imagine Peace in the 21st Century. Take time to speak with members of our families who were too young to remember, or who had yet to be born, exactly what happened that day and how Americans came together to be stronger than ever. Thank an active duty service member or a veteran for stepping up to keep our country free and safe. Give a donation to our Foundation or Rotary International Foundation to continue their peace and goodwill efforts around the world. Attend an organized event commemorating the 18th anniversary. 9/11 Never Forget. “Service above Self.” Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights b>President Jackie presented our Speaker Roger Thomas with our Share What You Can Award. President Jackie awarded Joan’s Partner Ruth with a Paul Harris + 4 pin. PP Michael Gordon poses with Roger Thomas. PP Dave Thorson reminded us of the upcoming Wetzel Awards. PP Brock Fraser introduced his close friend Becky. Marie Walsh reminded us of Breakfast with books on September 10th. Kathy Mahon led the invocation. Joan Murdock was joined for lunch by her partner Ruth. Jaime Goldsmith announced the need for our participation at SOAR on September 16th. Francesca Gilbert announced the UNLV Tailgate on October 5th. Bob Barnard who couldn’t sit at a full Birthday table started his own. At President Jackie’s head table were Tom Thomas and our speakers Alex Woogmaster and Roger Thomas. At our birthday table were Jerry Sennes, Caty Crocket, RB Brinton, Richard Jost, Rampur Viswanath, Ted McAdam, Sidra Kain and intruder Paul Kruger. 25 club president Jimmelle reminded us the canned food drive. Marie Walsh reminded us of Breakfast with books on September 10th. Scribe &#8211; September 5, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  September 5, 2019 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order. Kathy Mahon gave the invocation; Rene Gamero led the club in singing “God Bless America”, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance; President Jackie led the club in reciting the Four-Way Test; The Sergeant at Arms was Tina Bishop; There were no International Rotarians, (4) visiting Rotarians and (3) Guests of Rotarians introduced; President Jackie gave a reminder that the People of Action Campaign is still going and the 30th annual peace conference is at Treasure Island on November 16th.  Since the club is a silver sponsor, President Jackie strongly encouraged attendance from the club.  The Pilot program for Together We Read has begun. Additionally, she reminded the club of the International Convention in Hawaii.  President Jackie has been in touch with ShelterBox who has been working on disaster relief for Hurricane Dorian.  She has been heard that a District in North Carolina is working on disaster relief efforts and will keep the club apprised of what can be done to contribute; Since it was the first Thursday of the month, President Jackie introduced the birthday table. Brock Fraser led the club in singing “Happy Birthday”; Jimmelle Siarot gave a reminder about the canned food drive.  Janet Linder reminded everyone of the new member orientation on September 10th at Francesca Gilbert’s home and encouraged everyone to participate; Joan Murdoch awarded Ruth Jagedzinski with a Paul Harris Fellow +4; PP Dave Thorson announced the upcoming Wetzel Awards.  Rene  Gamero  announced the 25 Club social on September 24th which is a tour of the Make a Wish wishing place. Marie Walsh discussed breakfast with books and reminded all Rotarians to sign up.  The 10th is the first event; Jamie Goldsmith announced a fundraiser for the canned food drive at Rockin’ Betty on September 8th.  20% of the proceeds will go to the canned food drive. She also reminded everyone of SOAR awards on September 16th and said the largest need is attendance; Kathy Mahon reminded everyone of the high tea on September 15th at La Postté benefiting the canned food drive; Jerry Sennes reminded everyone about the highway clean up on September 7th at Old Bonnie Springs entrance gate and breakfast afterwards at Sennes’ home;  Francesca Gilbert announced the UNLV tailgate on October 5th.  P.P. Jim Tucker reminded all Rotarians that there is still one space available in the wheel; The weekly drawing began at $994 plus this week’s donations.  The Ticket Winner who received a prize of $10 and the Lawry’s Bucks each went to guests of Rotarians; PP Tom Thomas introduced Roger P. Thomas, Executive Vice President of Design for Wynn Design and Development who gave a presentation on the new Encore Hotel in Boston and the intricacies associated therewith; President Jackie presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel For September 12, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  20. 90

    Roger P. Thomas – Wynn Design & Development – Latest Wynn Project

    The Wheel for September 5, 2019 Listen to Roger P. Thomas &#8211; Wynn Design &amp; Development &#8211; Latest Wynn Project The Wheel Download Roger P. Thomas &#8211; Wynn Design &amp; Development &#8211; Latest Wynn Project Roger Thomas is Executive Vice President of Design for Wynn Design and Development. He has created the interiors of Wynn Resorts worldwide including the new opulent Wynn Palace, Cotai, China. Mr. Thomas just completed his last resort project, Encore Boston Harbor. While a recognized leader in interior design for the hospitality industry, Mr. Thomas has also designed corporate offices and aircraft interiors, as well as the private residences and yachts for Mr. and Mrs. Stephen A. Wynn. The Roger Thomas Collection includes signature designs and products for APF Master Framemakers, Boyd Lighting, Fromental, More and Giles Leather, Rocky Mountain Hardware, Samuel and Sons, Passementerie, Townsend Leather, Koroseal, S. Harris, Maya Romanoff, SICIS, Speakman Plumbing, Studio A, Labrazel bath accessories and Alexander Lamont, Lighting. Mr. Thomas was elected to the Hospitality Design Platinum Circle in 2005 and was named “Designer of the Year” at The International Hotel/Motel &amp; Restaurant Show® (IH/M&amp;RS) in New York. Mr. Thomas is a 5-time member of Architectural Digest’s A.D. 100 and, in 2015, was inducted into the Interior Design Hall of Fame. Mr. Thomas serves on the Board of the Smith Center for the Performing Arts and is a member of the Architectural Selection Committee for the Nevada Museum of Art, Las Vegas. Mr. Thomas is a graduate of Interlochen Arts Academy and The School of the Museum of Fine Art in Boston, MA. He received a BFA in Art History from Tufts University and an honorary masters’ degree from the Interior Design Institute. His work has been published in leading journals, including Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Interiors and Hospitality Design. Born in Salt Lake City, he has lived most of his life in Las Vegas, where he still makes his home. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, For this week’s message, I wish to discuss in more detail a great way for our members to become involved in more action at the international level. At the Hamburg convention, I attended a breakout session where I learned about Rotary Action Groups. Taken directly from rotary.org, “Rotary Action Groups are international groups of Rotarians, family members, program participants, and alumni who are experts in a particular field or passionate about topics such as microcredit, peace, the environment, or water.” “Group members collaborate with clubs and districts on service projects by offering their technical expertise or helping them find partners, funding, and other resources. RAGs (Rotary Action Groups) can also help clubs prepare grant applications, conduct community assessments, raise funds, and establish monitoring and evaluation plans.” As I was listening intently to the presentation, I immediately thought of “Rotary Connects the World” our theme for this Rotary year. There is a group directory on the RI website, so members can look up groups with interests and a focus that resonates with that member. Groups focus in the areas of promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water and sanitation, saving mothers and children, supporting education/literacy, growing local economies, and RAGS with a multiple focus. Rotary Action Groups function independently of Rotary Clubs, establishing their own rules, fee structure, and administration. Membership is open to all Rotarians, their families and alumni, but the groups must still be in compliance with Rotary International By Laws and operate in accordance with Rotary. Rotary Action Groups give members the opportunity to become involved with meaningful service outside the local club, district or country. Partnering with a RAG can benefit clubs and districts by utilizing experts in planning and implementing a project. There is a downloadable brochure on rotary.org which lists the current RAGs and how to contact them for more information. Don’t see what you are looking for? The brochure describes how to start a Rotary Action Group. New RAGS need the approval of the RI Board of Directors. An example of one of the RAGS is action: Rotarians for Family Health and AIDS Prevention, sponsors and annual event to provide health care services including HIV testing and counseling to thousands of people in hundreds of sites across Africa. There is a Rotary Action Group focusing on literacy. Upon going to their website, www.litrag.org, I learned that over 776 million people over 15 are illiterate. That is 17% of the world’s population. While our club mission statement focuses on children, the site has a specific program called Rotary TEACH an anacronym for Teacher support, e Learning, Adult Literacy, Child Development and Happy Schools. This is one area, there are 5 other areas of focus with children as a centerpiece! I urge any of you who may be looking to become involved in an ongoing International Project, to take a look and see what Rotarians around the world are doing and join in! Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights Toni Kern opened with the invocation. President Jackie presented our speaker with our Share What You Can Award. President Jackie awarded PP Jim Kohl with the Rotarian of the Month award. Our Sergeant at Arms Kim Nyoni pauses for a picture with Carey Grohs who was promoting the canned food drive. Melanie Muldowney and President Jackie awarded Rose Falocco with Major Donor Level 1. John Ingeme missed getting the Joker but won the default $10. Janet Linder reminded us of the new member orientation at the home of Francesca Gilbert. Jaime Goldsmith won this week&#8217;s Lawry Bucks. Jaime Goldsmith presented a check for $1,000 to Jimmelle Siarot for the canned food drive. Jaime Goldsmith led us in song. Bill Stieren introduced our speaker John Laub. At Jackie’s head table were Rose Falocco, our speaker John Laub and Bill Stieren. Scribe &#8211; August 29, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  August 29, 2019 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order: Toni Kern gave the invocation; Jaime Goldsmith led the club in singing “The Star-Spangled Banner”, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance; The Sergeant at Arms was Joakim Nyoni; There were no International Rotarians, (1) visiting Rotarians and (3) Guests of Rotarians introduced; President Jackie encouraged members to log in to Facebook and share the live stream.  There was then a reminder that the People of Action Campaign is still going and the 30th annual peace conference is at Treasure Island on November 16th; Melanie Muldowney awarded Rose Falocco as a Major Donor Level 1; President Jackie awarded P.P. Jim Kohl with the Rotarian of the Month award; Jamie Goldsmith presented a check in the amount of $1,000 to Jimmelle Siarot toward the canned food drive from the funds raised from the brunch event; Carey Grohs reminded everyone that the canned food drive to benefit the Salvation Army is currently underway; Janet Linder reminded everyone of the new member orientation on September 10th at Francesca Gilbert’s home and encouraged everyone to participate; Marie Walsh discussed breakfast with books and reminded all Rotarians to sign up; Jaime Goldsmith, announced the high tea on September 15th at La Postte and also, reminded everyone of SOAR awards on September 16th and said the largest need is attendance; President Jackie reminded everyone about the highway clean up on September 7th at Old Bonnie Springs entrance gate and brunch afterwards at Sennes’ home; Jim Tucker reminded all Rotarians that there is still one space available in the wheel and member photos are now due for next year’s directory; The weekly drawing began at $799 plus this week’s donations.  The Ticket Winner was John Ingeme, who received a prize of $10 and the Lawry’s Bucks went to Jaime Goldsmith; Bill Stieren introduced John Laub, President and co-founder of the Las Vegas Medical Marijuana Association, who gave updates on the state of Nevada since the legalization of marijuana; President Jackie presented our speaker with the “Share What You Can” certificate to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for September 5, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  21. 89

    John Laub – State of Medical Marijuana in Nevada

    The Wheel for August 29, 2019 Listen to John Laub &#8211; State of Medical Marijuana in Nevada The Wheel Download John Laub &#8211; State of Medical Marijuana in Nevada John Laub is the President &amp; co-founder of the Las Vegas Medical Marijuana Association. Started in 2014, the organization has over 100 members and over 3,000 subscribers to its weekly newsletter. He is the President of the Nevada Biotechnology &amp; Health Science Consortium. John is the Chair of the UNLV College of Sciences Board of Advisors. He is also President of WUND Healing BioPharmaceuticals, a Las Vegas-based biotech company focused on Parkinson’s, ALS &amp; Alzheimers. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, Today will be hear John Laub speak about medical marijuana and our State. I have seen so many Facebook posts discussing the budget shortfall in the Clark County School District, which most specifically is impacting our dedicated teachers. Teachers are planning to strike presumably because they are not paid enough, have increasing PERS pension costs, have seen a cut in future pension benefits, not enough basic items their students need and so on. Well, we say, the pitch to legalize marijuana was to direct the revenue to our schools. But what is really happening? What are the differences in medical vs. recreational marijuana and how is the revenue is applied? Is there a difference? The medical and recreational marijuana dispensaries are regulated by the State Department of Taxation. Ok there is the first issue. Having a tax permit as required by State Law even though I have no taxable sales, (I am in a service business,) I know first-hand that the collection process is very specific, diplomatically put. One must file a return whether tax is owed or not and they back that requirement specifically. In looking at the annual fees, they are steep for all categories. So that brings me back to the initial questions that many of us are asking? Where is all this revenue? Why is there any shortfall in the school districts? According to the State Tax website, there are 49 recreational dispensaries in Clark County alone! Much more than any other Nevada county. Ok so what are the differences in how the State enhances its revenue between medical and recreational other than renewal license fees? Historical Information on Marijuana Licensing from the State Taxation Website: “For 10 days during August 2014, the Division accepted 519 applications for medical marijuana establishments.  In November 2014, 372 provisional certificates were issued.  Starting in early 2015 and continuing into 2016, these establishments opened for business.” Marijuana Program Timeline Nov. 2000   65% of Nevada voters approve ballot question 9 to allow the use of medical marijuana in Nevada. Nevada becomes a home cultivation state with a patient registry, to be outlined in NRS 453A, the Medical Use of Marijuana. Oct. 2001   Question 9 becomes effective. June 2013   Senate Bill 374 signed by Governor Brian Sandoval to provide for medical marijuana establishments including cultivation, production, dispensaries and laboratories. NRS 453A is modified to include medical marijuana establishment regulation. It sure took some time from the passage of Question 9 to the Governor signing into law. The Governor set up a task force for advisory going forward and two things stick out to me. The task force recommends that medical and retail marijuana can occupy the same space. A 15% excise tax on wholesale with a 10% retail tax. 25%! Keeping the overall tax to under the 30% threshold. So again, the questions, where is all this revenue? Hopefully we will get answers to these and many other questions today. California started a State Lottery to fund the schools decades ago. Residents there asked/asking the same questions. Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights Tina Bishop missed her chance at the Joker. The Lawry Bucks went to Steve Dixon. Pause and smile Steve. Sergeant at Arms Ted McAdam joined with Kim Nyoni for a fellowship picture. President Jackie presents “Share What You Can Awards” to our speakers from Homeland Security. PP Karen Whisenhunt wanted someone to claim the putter that was left behind at our tournament. Mike Ballard led the invocation. Melanie Muldowney and President Jackie present Paul Harris Awards to Jerry Sennes, Barbara Billitzer and PP Jim Hunt. Marie Walsh reminded to sign up for breakfast with books. Kimberly Brodeur introduced our youth exchange student Savannah. Jerry Sennes announced our September 7th highway cleanup. Janet Linder reminded everyone of the new Member Orientation meeting at the home of Francesca on September the 10th. Chris Rodenfels was joined for lunch by his sister in law. At President Jackie’s head table was Kim Nyoni, Stuart McCann and Michael Harris Special Agents in Charge for Homeland Security. Arleen Sirois and Andy Kuniyuki led us in song. Scribe &#8211; August 22, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: August 22, 2019 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order; Mike Ballard gave the invocation; Dr. Andy Kuniyuki led the club in singing “Make me a Chanel of your Peace”, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.; The Sergeant at Arms was Ted McAdams; There were no International Rotarians, (3) visiting Rotarians and (4) Guests of Rotarians introduced; President Jackie encouraged members to log in to Facebook and share the live stream. There was then a reminder that the People of Action Campaign is still going and the 30th annual peace conference is at Treasure Island on November 15th; Melanie Muldowney did a presentation of awards to three Paul Harris Fellows. These Rotarians were Barbara Billitzer, Jerry Sennes, and P.P. Jim Hunt.; Rene Gamero reminded everyone that the canned food drive to benefit the Salvation Army is currently underway. P.P. Jim Kohl discussed the drop your drawers drive and reminded everyone that the drive would continue through next week; Janet Linder reminded everyone of the new member orientation on September 10th at Francesca Gilbert’s home and encouraged everyone to participate; Marie Walsh discussed breakfast with books and reminded all Rotarians to sign up; Carey Grohs discussed the holiday party on December 5th which will have a theme of Holidays with Paul Harris; Jamie Goldsmith, Chair of SOAR, reminded everyone of the SOAR awards on September 16th and said the largest need is attendance.; Karen Whisenhunt discussed Open World. Host family positions are full, but she is currently looking for volunteers to participate as drivers; Joakim Nyoni recapped the Wine to Water event and announced the $648 was raised; Jerry Sennes announced the highway clean up on September 7th at Old Bonnie Springs entrance gate and breakfast afterwards at Sennes’ home and Jim Tucker reminded all Rotarians that there is still one space available in the wheel; The weekly drawing began at $638 plus this week’s donations. The Ticket Winner was Tina Bishop, who received a prize of $10 and the Lawry’s Bucks went to Steve Dixon; Joakim Nyoni introduced Michael Harris, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Immigrations &amp; Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations Las Vegas Field Office who gave a presentation on the work the agency does in Las Vegas and the current status of the climate of trafficking in the region; President Jackie presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting; &nbsp; <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for August 29, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  22. 88

    Michael A. Harris – Special Agent in Charge Homeland – Security Investigations

    The Wheel for August 22, 2019 Listen to Michael A. Harris &#8211; Special Agent in Charge Homeland &#8211; Security Investigations The Wheel Download Michael A. Harris &#8211; Special Agent in Charge &#8211; Homeland Security Investigations Michael Harris is the Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) for the U.S. Immigrations &amp; Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Las Vegas Field Office. As the highest ranking special agent in Las Vegas, he has a vast amount of experience coordinating and managing large special events. ASAC Harris has been appointed by the Secretary of Homeland Security as a Deputy Federal Coordinator for the SEAR 1 &amp; 2 events such as the New Year’s Eve Las Vegas and Consumer Electronic Shows. ASAC Harris’s current assignment has provided him with a vast amount of knowledge coordinating, collaborating, and liaising with federal, state, local law enforcement agencies as the highest levels. On a daily occurrence, ASAC Harris coordinates with law enforcement officials, as well as hotel and casino security professionals to ensure the public safety of more than 46 million annual visitors that travel to Las Vegas, in addition to the 2.1 million citizens that live and work in southern Nevada. His tenure as the ASAC in the city known as the entertainment capital of the world, has provided him the opportunities to build and maintain a network of law enforcement, civilian contacts, and city officials within the community to gather information and intelligence that specifically connects to the DHS missions of border security, national security and public safety. ASAC Harris has held various management and leadership positions as a Special Agent with the titles of Supervisory Special Agent, Section Chief, Unit Chief, and ASAC. He has more than 18 years of management experience as a criminal investigator in addition to his military leadership experience. Mr. Harris began his law enforcement career with the U.S. Air Force, Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI). During his time with AFOSI, he conducted a wide array of investigations involving deaths, narcotics, commercial fraud, and anti-terrorism. In 1993, Mr. Harris was selected as AFOSI Special Agent of the Year. Following this time with AFOSI, Mr. Harris served as a Special Agent with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement conducting criminal investigations and working undercover assignments. ASAC Harris was a mid-level manager at ICE HQ from 2008 – 2011 where he had oversight of the Management Oversight Unit and coordinated all outside audits from DHS-OIG. In addition, he was responsible for handling Management Inquiries and Fact Finders to investigate minor disciplinary issues. Mr. Harris has a Bachelor of Science Degree from Troy State University and he is a graduate of Rancho High School, Las Vegas. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, Today we will hear about a topic that has had a lot of press lately, but what has really been done? Human trafficking is a much more prolific than we care to admit, and we are experiencing this firsthand in our Las Vegas community. There were 2,794 minors recovered from human sex trafficking by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department from 1994 through 2016; in 2016 according to Metro PD stats there were about 12 cases per month and 2017 had only gone up. The profile of the children in our area and those that are most vulnerable are female 13 and younger who have been abused, subjected to family instability, live in poverty, have runaway or are already homeless. There are several warning signs to be aware of. Youths who have trouble sleeping during the night because of their soliciting, youths who run away from Friday to Sunday without any clear explanation of their whereabouts, a tattoo that may be used as branding, promiscuous dressing or dressing in expensive clothing, a change in attitude and language, referring to a boyfriend as ‘daddy’ and dating older men. Out guest speaker today will discuss this issue on a much larger scale, from the ICE perspective. Directly from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement website, “According to the U.S. Department of State, the United States is a destination country for thousands of men, women, and children trafficked from all areas of the world. These victims are trafficked for the purposes of sexual and labor exploitation. Many of these victims are lured from their homes with false promises of well-paying jobs; instead, they are forced or coerced into prostitution, domestic servitude, farm or factory labor or other types of forced labor. The question is, is there an upward trend in trafficking nationally and internationally just as there is locally? What is ICE doing to combat this despicable practice? ICE uses a victim-centered approach, which essentially protects victims from fear and intimidation, working with trained coordinators who collaborate with several NGO’s and short-term immigration relief. Here locally, Metro has trained 400 social workers on the signs of commercial and sexual exploitation of children and along with the Clark County Department of Family Services are screening children for the warning signs and the actual signs of being in the life. Again, what is being done? Because of the nature of human trafficking, data on the local, national and international levels is incomplete at best. Here are 5 ways we can attempt to help: Identifying at risk youths More early intervention by social programs A multi-layered approach across several agencies Pay attention! Become a mentor through the local Power On! Group. A local agency founded to mentor victims. The most important thing all of us can do, is recognize that there is a problem. The old saying which is now becoming the new saying: “See something, Say something.” We owe it to our children to show we care and help not hinder agencies that are doing just that. Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights Val Hatley won the Lawry Bucks. Robert Werner exchanged banners with Von Valdepenas from Manila. Rene Gamero announced that the canned food drive to benefit the Salvation Army is now underway. President Jackie thanked our speaker Mitch Fox for his presentation. President Jackie presented a check for $1350 for the &#8220;Share What You Can&#8221; Award and PP Jim Kohl presented $5,000 from Howard &#038; Howard and the LVRF to PP Dave Thorson for the USO. PP Steve Linder our Sergeant At Arms, posed with our SOAR Chair Jaime Goldsmith for a pause and smile photo. PP Steve Linder made it a point to present our flag in the proper direction. PP Jim Hunt led the invocation. Kim Nyoni posed for a picture with his guest. Judith Pinkerton led us in singing ”This Land is Your Land”. Jerry Sennes reminded of our highway cleanup and the brunch afterwards at his home. Francesca Gilbert had a chance to pull a joker…but she is a queen. At President Jackie’s head table were President Elect Richard Jost, PP Ginger Anderson and our speaker Mitch Fox. A photo of the SOAR awards to be presented to honor our First Responders; Police, firefighters and emergency personnel. Scribe &#8211; August 15, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: August 15, 2019 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order. Jim Hunt gave the invocation, Judith Pinkerton led the club in singing “This Land Is Your Land” followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. PP Steve Linder was the Sergeant-at-Arms; There was 1 International Rotarian (Philippines), 0 visiting Rotarians and 2 Guests of Rotarians. President Elect Richard Jost, Speaker Mitch Fox, Ginger Anderson shared the Head Table with President Jackie Thornhill; President Jackie reminded the Club to send People of Action Photos to her; President Jackie Thornhill reminds that the 30th annual District 5300 Peace Conference is on November 16, 2019 at the Treasure Island Hotel. The Las Vegas Rotary Club is a Silver Sponsor of this event; President Jackie Thornhill suggested that Rotarians intending to attend the International Convention in Hawaii in June 2020 should register early and book their hotels soon due to limited availability; President Jackie Thornhill said that a final draft of the Club Roster is circulating during the meeting and to make any corrections asap; Past President Dave Thorson was presented with two awards for the USO. 1) President Jackie presented a check of $1350 for the Share What You Can Award, and PP Jim Kohl presented $5,000 to the USO from Howard &amp; Howard and the Foundation. Rene Gamero, 25 Club Secretary announced the Can Food Drive is underway and reminded that every $1 provides 9 cans of food. PP Jim Kohl reminds about the Drop Your Drawers campaign for Project 150 and that ordering through Smile.Amazon.com is also financially beneficial to the organization. Jaime Goldsmith, Chair for the SOAR committee, announced that the SOAR presentation to deserving First Responders will be on Monday, September 16 at 8:00 AM. 2-hour free parking pass is available. PP Karen Whisenhunt announced the update of Open World and that we are still in need of two more host families for October 11 – 19. Kim Nyoni reminded us of the upcoming Wine to Water event. We should bring a bottle of wine to drink and an auction item. Remember to enter thru the Charleston gate at Jerry Engle’s home. Jerry Sennes remind of the Highway Clean Up on September 7. Meet at the old Bonnie Springs entrance gate. Brunch after at the Sennes home. Jim Tucker announced that there is still time to submit ads for the Wheel. This week’s drawing starting at $500 and Francesca Gilbert did not draw a joker. Val Hatley was the lucky winner of the Lawry Bucks Andy Kuniyuki introduced this week’s speaker Mitch Fox, President and CEO of the Nevada Broadcasters Association. President Jackie Thornhill presented our Speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for August 22, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  23. 87

    Sarah Robinson – ShelterBox USA

    The Wheel for August 8, 2019 Listen to Sarah Robinson &#8211; ShelterBox USA The Wheel Download Sarah Robinson &#8211; ShelterBox USA Sarah Robinson is the Director of Development of ShelterBox USA, Rotary International’s project partner in disaster relief. She has a love for service and finds ways to help others, as a community volunteer and through her non-profit career. Sarah is on the boards of The National Museum of Nuclear Science &amp; History and the Rotary Club of Albuquerque Rio Grande, where she is immediate past president and a member of the Paul Harris Society.  She worked for the American Cancer Society for 12 years and was a Vice President there, prior to joining the ShelterBox team. Sarah joins us today from her home in Albuquerque, NM. She is here today to share with us about the incredible impact ShelterBox is having for families displaced around the globe. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, When people are subjected to natural or man-made disasters, who ya’ gonna call? Ghostbusters? No seriously, 911, local police, Red Cross, Salvation Army? Most people would say, 911. What if the disaster is a hurricane, tornedo, forest fire and phone service is down or intermittent? There are several agencies ready, willing and able to render assistance in the form of food, shelter and clothing. Rotary International has formed an amazing partnership with a worldwide disaster relief organization known as ShelterBox. Today, we are going to hear about this extraordinary organization. “ShelterBox is a cutting-edge charity that hand-delivers emergency shelter for families devastated by natural disaster and conflict. Our signature ShelterBoxes and ShelterKits contain the tools to transform lives and rebuild communities.” “ShelterBox is made up of people who believe in shelter as a human right – that shelter from the chaos of disaster and conflict is vital. We provide the tools that enable people to rebuild homes and transform their lives.” These quotes are directly from their website. The history of the partnership between Rotary International and ShelterBox goes back to April 2000. In April 2000, the Rotary Club of Helston-Lizard in Cornwall, England adopted ShelterBox as its millennium project. Little did they know that it would become the largest Club project in the world, responding to disasters and conflict across the globe and providing emergency shelter to over one million people. ShelterBox’s website states, “Rotary has been instrumental in our growth and is the cement that binds us together. Since ShelterBox was founded, we have grown from one club’s adopted project to Rotary International’s only Project Partner in disaster relief. Their global network has been key in our international growth. At present, all ShelterBox affiliates around the world, have been set up by Rotarians or Rotaractors and the growth has been phenomenal. ShelterBox provides aid that is tailored to meet the needs of a community after a specific disaster. ShelterBoxes provide a family with a tent that resists the elements and Shelter Kits provide that family with tools and resources to begin the rebuild and repair their home. Food and medical aid are not provided by Shelter Box, that is left to the agencies that specialize in those areas. The ShelterBox Response Team, (SBRT,) will support and coordinate with the other agencies as needed once on the ground. When a disaster occurs, Shelter Box sends out a team to assess and determine what level of relief is required and is delivered by whatever means necessary. Boat, helicopter, vehicles, or on foot, and they get their response team to the scene anywhere in the world in 24-36 hours. Quite an accomplishment, and more often than not, it will be Rotarians and Clubs who are the first point of contact for the SBRT members when they arrive in a country that has been devastated by a disaster. “In 2018 with the support of Rotary Clubs from around the world, we provided shelter and supplies for 210,000 people whose lives were devastated by disaster.” Rotarians are “People of Action” Rotarians live “Service Above Self” Jackie ThornhillPresident Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights We had two members at the monthly Birthday table Dr. Andy Kuniyuki and PP Jim Kohl. Usually lucky Arleen Sirois missed her shot at the Joker with a King. Toni Kern gave us an update on our Spread the Word Nevada program. Sergeant At Arms Rose Falocco exchanged Banners with a visitor from Ithica NY. President Jackie presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO. PP Steve Linder introduced his friend and family from France. PP Karen Whisenhunt won the Lawry Bucks. Our 25 Club president Jimmelle Siarot gave us a recap of the Alpine Picnic. Joan Murdock led the invocation. Joakim Nyoni announced the Wine to Water event on August 15th to raise money to support clean water projects. Janice Lencke and Joan Murdock joined for fellowship and lunch. Jaime Goldsmith led us with the Happy Birthday song. Carey Grohs led us in song with “Home Means Nevada”. Bob Werner exchanged banners with our guest from Turkey. At President Jackie’s Head table were our speaker Andrew Bennett, Lynn Wetzel and Rene Gamero. Scribe &#8211; August 1, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  August 1, 2019 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order. Joan Murdock gave the invocation.  Carey Grohs led the club in singing “Home Means Nevada”, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.   The Sergeant at Arms was Rose Falocco. There were (2) International Rotarians, (1) visiting Rotarian and (3) Guests of Rotarians introduced President Jackie encouraged members to log in to Facebook and share the live stream.  There was then a reminder that the People of Action Campaign is still going and the 30th annual peace conference is at Treasure Island on November 15th. Jim Tucker reminded all Rotarians that there is still space available in the wheel.  Toni Kern gave an update about Spread the Word Nevada and Books with Buddies including a reminder about training sessions.   The August Birthday table was introduced, and Jaime Goldsmith led the club in singing “Happy Birthday”.  Jimmelle Siarot gave a wrap up of the Alpine Picnic. P.P. Jim Kohl discussed the drop your drawers drive and announced that clothing collection will begin at the end of August.  Joakim Nyoni announced the Wine to Water event on August 15th to raise money to support clean water projects.   The weekly drawing began at $2,293 plus this week’s donations.  The Ticket Winner was Arlene Sirois, who received a prize of $10 and the Lawry’s Bucks went to P.P. Karen Whisenhunt. Dr. Andy Kuniyuki introduced Lynn Wetzel, Marketing Account Director for Kirvin Doak Communications who introduced the program speaker Andrew Bennett from the Department of Public Safety, .  Andrew gave a presentation on traffic safety and the current progress being made in the Las Vegas region.  President Jackie presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp; <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for August 8, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  24. 86

    Andrew Bennett – Department of Public Safety

    The Wheel for August 1, 2019 Listen to Andrew Bennett &#8211; Department of Public Safety The Wheel Download Andrew Bennett &#8211; Department of Public Safety Growing up, Andrew Bennett wanted to be a chef. Born and raised in the rich culinary scene of Las Vegas, the driven young man always envisioned himself in a career where he could put “passion on a plate.” After his sister was tragically killed by a drunk driver, Bennett began to consider how he could use his pain to help others. Months after his sister’s death, he gave a speech to high schoolers, warning about the very real dangers and consequences of driving under the influence. That new path eventually led him to the Nevada Office of Traffic Safety, where he serves as the public information officer and project manager for the Zero Fatalities program. He also helped spearhead the DUI Strike Team — a collaboration between NHP and Metro Police that has put more than 700 suspects behind bars since October. “The opportunity to prevent another family from receiving that knock on the door is the greatest motivator I can think of,” Bennett said. “The idea that I have the opportunity to go into work every day to prevent the loss of life on our roadways is not just my job but a legacy for my sister.” Bennett has not lost sight of his goal of becoming a chef — the wood-fired pizza oven he got in December attests to his enduring zeal for the kitchen — but for now working in public service is a higher calling. “If I just save one life, my time in traffic safety will have been worth it,” he said. Bennett only asks for steady progress — the Strike Team certainly contributes to that. But there’s a long way to go before the “zero fatalities” goal is met in the state. Perhaps it’ll happen after his lifetime, he said. In the meantime, zero people died on Southern Nevada roadways during Memorial Day, which was promising. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, I have been asked to take some time to talk about the International Convention. The 2019 RI International Convention was held in Hamburg, Germany. I was elated! Hamburg was the only major city in Germany I had not visited, but more importantly, it was the site of the early performances of my favorite band of all time The Beatles! Sign up for the Beatles Tour! What else is there to do? A few sessions and then tour the city. I was so wrong. When I arrived in Frankfurt to change planes to fly the last leg to Hamburg, Rotarians were there waiting to board, and the joyous celebrations were already beginning. The enthusiasm and excitement were infectious and was all around me. Rotarians were so happy to be attending the Rotary International Convention! We boarded for the short flight to Hamburg, deplaned and were met by the volunteers who were checking us in. I caught my cab to my hotel and anticipated the opening ceremony! The opening ceremony with 35,000 Rotarians and the parade of flags representing all the countries that had clubs represented was a site to see. When the USA flag walked across the stage, it was such a proud moment just as there was when all the flags walked across for Rotarians of those countries. We were all one great family of people seeking to bring Peace, Goodwill and Help the world end struggling and disharmony. Seeing Rotarians dressed in their native dress was spectacular! Watching Rotarians spread love without any prejudice was humbling. Each general session brought more solid information on just how Rotary International as a Service Organization is going to connect the world. The local projects I learned about such as the clothing made by the former sex workers from the Rotary Club of Livingstone, Zambia to lift them up and out was amazing. I bought one of these beautiful shirts in the House of Friendship. Or attending a breakout session and learning about a Rotary Action Group on Health, Education and Wellness. In the same breakout session, I learned about Rotary Fellowships which are international groups that share a common passion. Being a part of a fellowship is a fun way to make friends around the world, explore a hobby or profession, and enhance your Rotary experience. At the end of the day, we would select a local restaurant to enjoy a nice dinner and enjoy the many Rotarians walking around the city enjoying the much warmer than usual weather. Then the next day’s events would begin with a general session, then a choice of breakout sessions, I usually chose those I felt would enhance our club activities. And, of course, walking through the House of Friendship which had several booths from various clubs discussing their local projects, vendors and Rotary International partners such as Shelter Box. Shelter Box will be speaking at one of our upcoming meetings regarding disaster relief. Every Rotarian should attend an International Convention at least once; an experience of a lifetime. Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights The drawing for Lawry Bucks was won by Doug Grant. The 25 Club Executive team in meeting with Advisor Jaime Goldsmith. Speaker PP Tom Thomas received the Share What You Can Award from President Jackie Thornhill. Rene Gamero leads us in a song followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. President Jackie Thornhill calls the meeting to order. Past President Randy Campanale introduced this week&#8217;s speaker. Past President Jim Kohl reminds us of the current Project 150 campaign. Dr. Andy Kuniyuki was honored as Rotarian of the Month. Bob Barnard had the winning ticket but drew the 5 of Hearts. Deb Granda presents a moving invocation. Scribe &#8211; July 25, 2019  Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: July 25, 2019 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order. Deb Granda led the invocation. Rene Gamero led the song, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The Sergeant at Arms was AG PP Michael Gordon. There were (4) International Rotarians, (0) visiting Rotarians and (2) Guests of Rotarians introduced. Guests in Head Table 1) Dr. Andy Kuniyuki 2) PP Randy Campanale 3) PP Tom Thomas President Jackie encouraged members to log in to Facebook and share the live stream. There was then a reminder that the People of Action Campaign is still going and the 30th annual peace conference is at Treasure Island on November 16th. Former member, Mike Sexton has passed away and a card is being sent around. Carey Grohs gave a reminder about the Alpine Picnic that will be held on July 27th. Jaime Goldsmith announced SOAR honoring the 1st Responders on Sept 16 with a buffet at Treasure Island. Mayor Goodman will be at the opening ceremony, requesting everyone to attend. P.P. Jim Kohl discussed the drop your drawers drive and announced that clothing collection will begin at the end of August. P.P. Karen Whisenhunt announced Open World Oct 11-19. The delegation from Ukraine will tour our Educational System here in US. Looking for volunteers to transport them to events and become host families. Kirk Alexander shared letters of 4th graders from Spread the Word Nevada students appreciating the good that we do. 4th Thursday of the month and the Rotarian of the Month was Dr. Andy Kuniyuki, Programs Chair. The weekly drawing began at $2137 plus this week’s take. The Ticket Winner was Bob Barnard, who missed the joker but received a prize of $10 and Doug Grant who won the Lawry’s Bucks. PP Randy Campanale introduced our program speaker, PP Thomas Thomas who shared his journey to Mt Kilimanjaro, Imja Tse and shared quotes from books &#8220;Why Men Climb Mountains&#8221; and &#8220;The Conquest of Everest&#8221; President Jackie presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for August 1, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  25. 85

    Thomas A. Thomas – Thomas & Mack Co.

    The Wheel for July 25, 2019 Listen to Thomas A. Thomas &#8211; Thomas &amp; Mack Co. The Wheel Download Thomas A. Thomas &#8211; Thomas &amp; Mack Co. Tom Thomas is the Managing Partner of the Thomas &amp; Mack Co., an investment management and commercial real estate development company. Mr. Thomas has managed the company since its formation in 1992. The Company owns and operates over 4 million sq. ft. of office and light industrial properties in Las Vegas as well as real estate developments in California, Arizona, and Utah. Thomas received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Finance from the University of Utah in 1982 and a Law Degree from the University of Utah College of Law in 1986. He is also a graduate of the National Graduate Trust School at Northwestern University. Current philanthropic and community efforts include Opportunity Village, the Thomas &amp; Mack Legal Clinic at the Boyd School of Law, the Greater Good Council, the Las Vegas Rotary Club and the Boy Scouts of America. &nbsp; Thomas currently serves on the following boards: Southwest Gas Corporation Nevada State Bank Opportunity Village Foundation Las Vegas Rotary Foundation The Greater Good Council UNLV Academic Corporate Council Thomas &amp; Mack Legal Clinic at UNLV BYU President’s Leadership Council Switch Inc Oversight Panel for Convention Facilities in Clark County Message From The President Dear Rotarians, We heard from the International Foundation Chair Brenda Cressey two weeks ago on how very close we are to eradicating Polio. As we express our joy and happiness at how Rotary and Rotarians worldwide have joined with other world health organizations in this fight, we look to a new International Foundation service project. Together, We Read is a partnership of action taken between Rotary International and Save the Children to raise awareness about early learning and to make early literacy, (0-5-year olds,) and kindergarten readiness a central focus in our communities. This new International Foundation project was first revealed at my PETS training back in February. At the International Assembly, where all the District Leadership meets with the incoming Rotary International President, Mark Daniel Maloney, he made it known that early childhood literacy was a concern. He further stated that we should begin a with a focus here in the United States. Four Districts were chosen to participate in the pilot program and District 5300 was one of the four! Here are some troubling statistics from the Save the Children website: Did you know that in the United States: 1 in 5 children grows up in poverty Nearly 63% of low-income children do not attend preschool 60% of children living in poverty have no books in their home That means millions of children growing up in poverty in the U.S. enter kindergarten unprepared. Children who reach third grade not reading at that grade level are more likely to drop out of high school. We are so fortunate to be a part of the pilot program. Our District Governor, Lu Arredondo, has taken this project and has worked on the development of the pilot program to begin in July. Our club will receive a kit with tools, banners and resources to help us with our rollout. Additionally, we are fortunate to already have a longtime action partnership with Spread the Word Nevada. Through our sponsorship of Will Beckley elementary school, we support the children with the Breakfast with Books monthly program and reading mentors who work one-on-one reading with the students. Our goal is that the two programs will blend together to provide books and mentorship opportunities for the 0-5-year olds our local Las Vegas community. As more information is received from the District, I will deliver that information to the Board of Directors. For all of the club membership who would like to be involved, we will get the information to all of you as soon as possible. How exciting it will be to be able to potentially affect children’s literacy in the very early years, especially for those children who may not have easy access otherwise. I am just thinking about how our Club Mission Statement is being realized more and more as each Rotary year passes! Jackie ThornhillPresident Las Vegas Rotary Club Member Highlights What a shot…..Five past presidents sitting together… Russ, Kathy, Katy, Sharon and Ginger. Seated at President Jackie’s Head table were our speakers Jim Puzey and Audrey Damonte along with Glenn Meier and the Pres. President Jackie presented our speakers from the Holley Driggs Law Firm with our share what you can award. PP Michael Gordon announced that we have submitted a request for the RI National Convention to be held once more in Las Vegas. PP Karen Whisenhunt announced that we need hosts for the Open World Program. PP Jim Kohl reminded us of our DYD project to help underprivileged school kids. Michael Cudiamat and Sergeant At Arms Howie Hopkinson presented our international visitor from the Philippines with our banner. Jaimee Goldsmith gave us an update on the SOAR presentation. Howie exchanged banners with our visitor Barb Izza from Tampa. Eric Astramicki led us in song and the pledge of allegiance. Carey Grohs reminded us of the the July 27th Alpine Picnic at Tom Thomas’s cabin. Brian Sorrentino started the meeting with his invocation. Kathy Mahon missed her chance at the pot and the Joker. But won the Lawry Bucks. The tickets must have been stuck together. Kathy Mahon missed her chance at the pot and the Joker. But won the Lawry Bucks. The tickets must have been stuck together. Scribe &#8211; July 18, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: July 18, 2019 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order. Brian Sorrentino gave the invocation. Eric Astramecki led the club in singing “God Bless America”, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The Sergeant at Arms was Howie Hopkinson. There was (1) International Rotarian, (2) visiting Rotarians and (2) Guests of Rotarians introduced President Jackie encouraged members to log in to Facebook and share the live stream. There was then a reminder that the People of Action Campaign is still going and the 30th annual peace conference is at Treasure Island on November 15th. Carey Grohs gave a reminder about the Alpine Picnic that will be held on July 27th. Jaime Goldsmith announced the results of the SOAR committee 4th of July event and also announced that her co-chair stepped down leaving a $1,500 donation. P.P. Jim Kohl discussed the drop your drawers drive and announced that clothing collection will begin at the end of August. P.P. Michael Gordon announced that a bid is being submitted to host the RI convention. P.P. Karen Whisenhunt discussed the Open World Program and discussed the status. She is currently looking for host families for delegates and program participation. The weekly drawing began at $1,960 plus this week’s donations. The Ticket Winner was Kathy Mahon, who received both a prize of $10 and the Lawry’s Bucks. Glenn Meier introduced our program speakers, attorneys Audrey Damonte, Esq. and James Puzey, Esq., with Holey Driggs Walch Fine Puzy Stein &amp; Thompson. James and Audrey discussed the 2019 legislative highlights adopted by the Nevada Legislature during its 80th session. This included a presentation on laws effecting: payroll tax rates; higher minimum wage; equal pay regardless of gender; drug screening; Nevada Equal Rights Commission directives and statue of limitation; paid leave; informing employers of being sick; injured workers; pre-existing conditions; emergency room healthcare providers; and maternity care; and medical marijuana. President Jackie presented our speakers with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for July 25, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  26. 84

    Audrey Damonte & Jim Puzey – Holley Driggs Law Firm

    The Wheel for July 18, 2019 Listen to Audrey Damonte &amp; Jim Puzey &#8211; Holley Driggs Law Firm The Wheel Download Audrey Damonte &amp; Jim Puzey &#8211; Holley Driggs Law Firm Nevada lawmakers have wrapped up the 80th Session of the Nevada Legislature. How will the decisions made in Carson City impact YOUR business here? What will these actions mean for our LOCAL community we call home? Find out on Thursday, July 18, 12 noon at Lawry’s The Prime Rib when the Las Vegas Rotary welcomes two prominent Nevada attorneys, James W. Puzey, Esq. and Audrey Damonte, Esq., from the law firm of Holley, Driggs, Walch, Fine, Puzey, Stein &amp; Thompson. Mr. Puzey is a shareholder with extensive expertise in commercial litigation, construction law, gaming law, water law, land use, and alternative dispute resolution. He has counseled clients in a full range of commercial and business disputes and has appeared before the Nevada Supreme Court and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. Before joining Holley, Driggs, Walch, Fine Wray, Puzey &amp; Thompson law firm, Ms. Damonte served as Associate General Counsel and Director of Government Relations for more than 10 years with International Game Technology (IGT) and has extensive expertise in government relations, legislative affairs, regulatory licensing and compliance, campaign finance, business law and disputes, and gaming law. Her knowledge has been pivotal in the passage of key legislation in multiple jurisdictions. She also provides counsel for real property, water and agricultural law, wills, trusts, and probate matters. Our legal guests will discuss key bills passed in our state’s capital and how these changes will affect your employees, your operation and your bottom line. This timely overview will include changes stemming from bills passed by the State Senate, State Assembly, and approved by Governor Sisolak, timing implications, and how to make sure your business is in compliance by the effective dates of the new laws. The meeting will be held at Lawry’s The Prime Rib at 4043 Howard Hughes Parkway, Las Vegas, NV 89169. Please visit lasvegasrotary.com for additional details. Message From The President Dear Jackie, Good evening. I am sending this PMail to all members of the Las Vegas Rotary Club. I wanted to send a short note to let you know how much Brenda and I appreciated the visit to your club. I, and Brenda, were over the top impressed with the entire club. The meeting was incredible, the fellowship endearing, and the presentation of so many supporters of The Rotary Foundation inspiring. I loved the birthday table, the singing (country roads &#8211; funny story behind that song that I will have to share with you later), and the family members that were present. Your club is a true leader of clubs across the district and it is such an honor for me to be in your midst. Thank you for all that you do in the local community, for creating a platform for young professionals; and, most importantly, for your energy and commitment to making each year better than the one that preceded it. The District and other clubs could learn a great deal from your club. Under the leadership of Jackie, I am confident you will continue to excel and blaze new paths. Thank you so so very much for your hospitality and allowing me to be part of such an important day. Hugs to all Lu Our Club was honored to have our District Governor and the Past Rotary International Foundation Chair, Brenda Cressey attend the first meeting of the new Rotary year. We are off to a fabulous start. I can only imagine where we will go from here! Member Highlights Tom Thomas received a second level major donor pin and awarded his daughter Lane with her third Paul Harris Fellow. Sergeant At Arms Bill poses with our new 25 Club president Jimmelle Siarot. Rose Falocco received a major donor recognition pin. President Jackie presented our Rotary Foundation speaker Brenda Cressey with our banner. PP Tom Thomas was joined for lunch by his wife Leslie, his daughter Lane and granddaughter. PP Jim Kohl presented representatives from the Junior Golf Association with a check from his firm Howard &#038; Howard. PP Dave Thorson exchanged flags with our visitors from Brazil. Our birthday members were Arleen Sirois, Kathy Dalvey, Steve Linder, Paul Maffey and 2 observers. Marie Walsh won this weeks Lawry Bucks. Many members were awarded with Harris upgrades and pins. Lucky Arleen Sirois missed the Joker this time out. Kim Nyoni led us in song. Go Jackie your year is starting. Chris Rodenfels&#8217; son was awarded his first PHF pin. t President Jackie’s head table was Michael Gordon, our speaker Brenda Cressey and our District 5300 Governor Luanne Arredondo. A busy first meeting for President Jackie…awarding all of these Paul Harris pins. Aaron Overton gave an invocation. Sergeant at Arms Bill Houghton exchanged banners with a visitor from Georgia. Scribe &#8211; July 11, 2019 President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order. Aaron Overton gave the invocation, Kim Nyoni led us singing “Take me home, Country Roads, Bill Houghton was the Sargent-At-Arms; President Jackie encouraged members to participate in the Facebook live stream; Two (2) International Rotarians Five (5) visiting Rotarians and six (6) Guests of Rotarians were introduced; President Jackie introduced the head table, DG Lu Arredondo, Rotary International Foundation Chair, Brenda Cressey and AG PP Michael Gordon. President Jackie reminded about the Charter party for the Rotary Club of Las Vegas After Hours party Friday evening and the Appreciation Party for PDG John Chase on Saturday. Info on Facebook; PP Jim Kohl presented a check to the Southern Nevada Junior Golf Association for $5000 from Howard &amp; Howard and the Las Vegas Rotary Foundation; President Jackie welcomed the Birthday table. Arleen Sirois, Kathy Dalvey, Steve Linder, and Paul Maffey; Kim Nyoni sat at the table and joked that his birthday was in January and led the birthday song. He was fined $97; Jimmelle Siarot announced the upcoming Alpine Picnic scheduled for July 27th from 11:00 to 4:00pm at PP Tom Thomas’ cabin at Lee Canyon. She asked for a volunteer to grill and to sign up in the green book; Kim Nyoni reminded the club of the graduation of 25 club members and celebration of President Jackie as the new President tonight at Tommy Bahamas at 4:30; Arleen Sirois missed drawing the joker in the raffle and Marie Walsh won the Lawry Bucks; RI Foundation Chair Brenda Cressey was introduced by AG PP Michael Gordon and her remarks lasted approximately 20 minutes. Paul Harris presentations immediately followed; PHF Presentations were led by President Jackie and RI Foundation Chair Brenda Cressey; Kim Nyoni PHF+1 Howie Hopkinson PHF+1 Kirk Alexander PHF+2 Bruce Frazey PHF+3 Jacqueline Thornhill PHF+3 Anil Melnick PHF+3 PP Randy Donald PHF+5 Bob Barnard PHF+6 John Ingeme PHF+6 PP Jim Kohl PHF+7 Ed Lepere PHF+7 PP Ginger Anderson PHF+8 Rose Falocco PHF+8 and Bequest Level 2 PP Tom Thomas Major Donor Level 2 Chris Rodenfels presented to his son Connor Rodenfels his first PHF Tom Thomas presented to his five children PHF+3 with his daughter Lane present; RI Foundation Chair Brenda Cressey took questions; President Jackie presented RI Foundation Chair Brenda Cressey with the Las Vegas Rotary Club flag; President Jackie adjourned the meeting <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for July 18, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  27. 83

    Brenda Cressey – The Rotary Foundation

    The Wheel for July 11, 2019 Listen to Brenda Cressey &#8211; The Rotary Foundation The Wheel Download Brenda Cressey &#8211; The Rotary Foundation Brenda was invited to join Rotary in 1989 and is a proud member of the Rotary Club of Paso Robles, CA. USA in District 5240. She is recently retired as the CEO of Office Support Systems, a telecommunications business.  She has served in a number of key roles for Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation, in the areas of membership, foundation, leadership training. These opportunities have allowed her to meet, mentor and serve alongside many fellow Rotarians around the globe. Brenda currently serves as Chair of The Rotary Foundation and is serving a four-year term on The Rotary Foundation from 2017-2021.  Since serving as Governor in 2001-02, most of her Rotary assignments have focused on successful Fund Development for The Rotary Foundation, specifically in the areas of Polio Eradication, Annual Fund, Paul Harris Society, Endowments, Major and Legacy Gifts. She has enjoyed witnessing several successful outcomes with several Districts she has assisted and advised in these efforts.  Her passion is and has always been to see the end of Polio. This has been her mission and the very reason she joined Rotary. Having participated in a number of Rotary humanitarian projects around the world, she is a proud Rotary Foundation Alumnus. Brenda has seen and experienced, first-hand, how our gifts to the Rotary Foundation greatly impact the lives of others and will someday bring peace and understanding around the world.  She and her husband Dick are members of the prestigious Arch Klumph Society, Major Donors, members of the Legacy and Paul Harris Society and have established the Brenda and Richard Cressey Endowment for Peace.  When asked what the highlights in her life might be, she will not hesitate to say that they involve being a Rotarian. She is the recipient of the RI “Service Above Self Award” and The Rotary Foundation’s “Citation for Meritorious Service,” and prestigious Distinguished Service Award. Outside of Rotary, Brenda was honored when nominated as one of President George H.W. Bush’s “1000 Points of Light,” recognizing those individuals who are making a difference through their volunteer service. She was also awarded Maine Public Broadcasting System’s “Jefferson Award for Meritorious Service,” and bestowed with the “State of Maine Governor Award for Community Service. She is also a two-time recipient of the American Cancer Societies Volunteer of the Year Award.  Brenda resides in Templeton, California, USA with her husband Richard, retired from a long career as a Vice President in manufacturing. They both enjoy spending time outdoors and traveling and have three wonderful grandchildren Message From The President Dear Rotarians, Thank you, members, for another great Rotary year! Thank you, Past President Jim Kohl, for your leadership and congrats again on winning both the Governor’s Bell and Presidential Citation. Now on to 2019-2020! Our first guest speaker is Brenda Cressey, the Rotary International Foundation Chair. I want to dedicate my first message to the amazing work of the Foundation. Let’s start with the Foundation’s Mission: The mission of The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International is to enable Rotarians to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education, and the alleviation of poverty. Next, I want to share a snapshot of the Foundation’s history and then let our guest speaker discuss the more current Foundation service projects and goals. In 1917, then Rotary President Arch Klumph, proposes an endowment for the purposes of doing good at the Rotary Convention in Atlanta, Georgia. Seed money was contributed by the Rotary Club of Kansas City. In 1928, The Rotary Foundation is formally named. In 1930, the first Foundation award of $500 (a very large amount at the time,) was given. In 1947, Rotary Club members contribute $1.3 million in Founder Paul Harris’ memory. In 1957, Paul Harris recognition begins. Skipping ahead, in 1979, Rotary begins immunizing 6 million children in the Philippines against polio. In 1980, Rotary commits to eradicating polio through immunization. In 1985, Polio Plus is launched. The plus refers to additional vaccines, infrastructure, advocacy and fundraising efforts now in place. In 1999, Rotary Peace Centers are founded. In 2007, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation issues the $100 million-dollar challenge. Yes, Bill Gates is listed as a member of the Seattle One Club! Now after the many decades of work, I am proud to report that as of the International Convention last month in Hamburg, there remains only 18, that’s eighteen cases of polio still recorded in the world! Two countries are left, Afghanistan and Pakistan with Nigeria about to be declared polio free. Now, you have a shortened version of how our Foundation dollars have been allocated over the past years. I can’t wait to hear about the future as the Foundation continues its mission to advance understanding, goodwill, peace, education, lifting people up and ridding the world of a major health crisis. Today, our new Rotary International President, Mark Daniel Maloney asks us to “Connect the World.” In his welcome email to the Rotary leadership he wrote, and I quote “I have spoken for several months about how Rotary Connects the World, and the time has now arrived to put our words into action. We have an exciting year ahead of us, a year when we begin to implement the new Strategic Plan, what I call the Rotary Action Plan and when we will celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the signing of the UN Charter.”I can’t wait for the rollout of the new Rotary Action Plan, the new International Foundation Service Project, and of course, our local service projects, fundraising and social events. We are “People of Action” We live “Service above Self” Jacqueline Thornhill &nbsp; Member Highlights Seated at President Jim’s head table was his wife Judith and Kim Nyoni. Rose Falocco expressed the success of the new member Orientation meeting at her home. Rosalee Hedrick and President Jim introduced our new member Judith Pinkerton. President Jim and Ted McAdam introduce two of our Wetzel Award winners Sergeant Brittan and AFC Ferber. President Elect Jackie Thornhill and Sergeant At Arms reminded us potential Paul Harris upgrades. PP Jim Tucker announced that we had available ad spots in our weekly newsletter. Jaime Goldsmith led President Jim&#8217;s last meeting with the invocation. Jaime announced the upcoming SOAR ceremony on September 16th and was joined by 2 member officers of the committee. Francesca Gilbert won the Lawry Bucks. Dr. Rampur Viswanath was joined for lunch by his granddaughter. Diane Clarey and Jerry Engel were back from the Galapagos Islands. Deb Granda missed her chance at the pot by not drawing the Joker. Carey Grohs and Arleen Sirois led us in song. Scribe &#8211; June 20, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: June 20, 2019 ⦁ President Jim called the meeting to order. Jamie Goldsmith gave the invocation highlighting equal rights for all Americans, Arleen Sirois and Carey Grohs served as song the leaders and PP Tom Krob was the Sergeant-At-Arms; ⦁ President Jim encouraged members to participate in the Facebook live stream; ⦁ One (1) visiting Rotarian and seven (7) Guests of Rotarians were introduced; ⦁ Carey Grohs announced the upcoming Alpine Picnic Scheduled for July 27th from 11:00 to 4:00pm at PP Tom Thomas’ cabin in Lee Canyon. She reminded fellow Rotarians to sign up to bring a dish; • Jamie Goldsmith announced the SOAR ceremony on Monday, September 16th at 8:00am at the Las Vegas City Hall; ⦁ Ted McAdams presented the Wetzel award winners Staff Sargent Brittan and Airman First Class Ferber; ⦁ Rosalee Hedrick had the pleasure to induct Judith Pinkerton into our Rotary Club; ⦁ Rosalee Hedrick gave a quick recap of the new member orientation at Rose Falocco home that was attended by 25 Rotarians; ⦁ President-Elect Jackie Thornhill gave a reminder that the club is matching dollars until the end of June for members who want to become Paul Harris Fellows or upgrade their status; ⦁ Kim Nyoni reminded the club of an upcoming 25 club event, Go Kart Social on June 28th at 6pm; ⦁ David Squier gave a recap of this quarter’s Highway Clean up; This week’s meeting was the Club Assembly. Highlighting the achievements from the 2018-2019 Rotary year. Some of the highlighted achievements were as follows… ⦁ Membership committee reported that we have 143 total members and two new members in the process. New improvements to the website. ⦁ Canned food drive received $9600 in donations. ⦁ Santa Clothes took place in four malls and gave 365 kids $148,735.38 worth of goods and services. ⦁ Wetzel Awarded 20 airmen a staycation. ⦁ Sent 46 troops from the National Guard to an Aviators Baseball game. ⦁ Breakfast with Books program provided 4240 books to 1202 kids by 666 adult volunteers which consisted of 110 Rotarians volunteers and distributed 1815 books. ⦁ Highway cleanup had more than 50 volunteers clean up the side of the road near Bonnie Springs. A growth in attendance from previous years. ⦁ Magical Forest was led by Michael Williams. ⦁ International Services – The board contributed $5,000 towards Super Build, Mayor’s Cup in February and hosted a German team, Youth Exchange putting tournament, Global Grant is the Water Is Life program in Uganda. ⦁ New Rotary International project called Together We Read aiming to reach 0-5-year olds. ⦁ Public Image committee reported that our website was visited 12,797 from 117 different countries. The Facebook live stream recorded 20,200 minutes and the Facebook followers increased from 1,070 to 1,269. • Las Vegas Rotary Club was awarded the District bell and numerous certificates. ⦁ Two major fundraiser’s &#8211; 260 raffle tickets were sold for $100 each. The prize was $10,000. Netting a total of $16,000 to the club. Cuisine and Octane fundraiser raised $19,000. Total funds raised to the Foundation was $33,000. ⦁ Fellowship – UNLV tailgate party, Rotary Holiday party at the Treasure Island, Alpine Picnic and the Family of rotary events. ⦁ Las Vegas Rotary Foundation’s goal was $2 million was surpassed and is at $2.1 million. President Jim Kohl thanked the board and adjourned his last meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for July 11, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  28. 82

    Las Vegas Rotary Club Assembly

    The Wheel for June 20, 2019 Listen to Club Assembly The Wheel Download Club Assembly Message From The President Dear Rotarians, Tomorrow is the first summer solstice of the year. I’ll bet you thought that was a typo. It isn’t. Past President Michael Gordon can tell you that the next summer solstice will be on December 22, 2019. It is serendipitous that we get to celebrate on one of the longest days of the year. We are celebrating the end of the Rotary year with a Club Assembly which as you will see, highlights all the projects and social events we participated in this year. Most of you are also celebrating that you don’t have to listen to me anymore. We are celebrating another great year. Why? Not because of me. Rather, it is because this year’s Board of Directors and 25 Club did a wonderful job. We are also celebrating because our members care about the projects that we do and turned out in force to support our events. When I was at Presidents Elect Training, the most important thing I learned is that each Rotary club will tell their president what they want to be. It incumbent on the presidents to listen to their clubs and make sure that the projects and events scheduled by their clubs reflect what the members want their clubs to be. You told us, and the Board of directors, the 25 Club and Shawn Noorda did a fantastic job of scheduling the events that you asked for. They scheduled some fun new ones that I hope we do again. Shawn, the Board of Directors and the 25 Club deserve our thanks for another great year filled with fun and fellowship. At our next lunch meeting, President Jackie will be running the Club. I wish her all the luck in the world and I encourage all of you to show her the warmth and love that I felt from you this year. I am truly grateful for it. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for letting me serve as the 96th President of the best rotary club in the world! James A. Kohl 95th President Rotary Club of Las Vegas Member Highlights Sergeant at Arms PP Steve Linder is joined by Rosalee Hedrick and Carey Grohs with announcements. President Jim presented PP David Thorson of the USO with our “Share What You Can Award” PP Jim Hunt won the Lawry bucks. New member Ben Klink led us in song. Lamar Marchesi led us with an invocation after taking a picture of the membership. Lamar was a member since 1992 and previously was the director of Nevada Public Radio. Lamar is leaving our club and moving to Florida with his wife Pat. Have a happy retirement in Florida Lamar. We will miss you. Lamar is joined by PP Michael Gordon for a picture of Lamar’s last meeting. Jimmelle and her daughter were anxious to win the chance of drawing a joker from the pot. Jerry Sennes gave us an update on the highway cleanup. Captain Kirk was joined for lunch by his mother Sandy. At President Jim’s head table was Anil Melnick, Dave’s daughter Mia and our speaker PP Dave Thorson the director of our USO clubs at McCarren airport. Alas John Ingeme got the chance but missed with a 4 of hearts. Jimmelle and her daughter pose for a picture while mom makes her announcements. Scribe &#8211; June 13, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  June 13, 2019 President Jim Kohl convened the meeting at 12:20pm: Lamar Marchese gave the invocation and bid the club farewell before he and his wife move closer to their grandchildren next week; Ben Klink served as the song leader; Past President Steve Linder was the Sergeant-at-Arms; Five guests of Rotarians were introduced; Jimmelle Siarot announced the upcoming Alpine Picnic scheduled for July 27 from 11:00-4:00 at Tom Thomas’ cabin in Lee Canyon. They are looking for grilling volunteers; Jamie Goldsmith announced the upcoming SOAR on Monday, September 16 at 8:00am at Las Vegas City Hall; Past President Dave Thorson made announcements regarding the Wetzel Awards that will take place on June 19 at Nellis AFB and regarding donations and attendance to the June 24th Aviators Game sponsoring National Guardsmen; President-Elect Jackie Thornhill gave a reminder on the availability of Club matching points for members who want to become Paul Harris Fellows or upgrade their Paul Harris Status; Carey Grohs announced the next 25Club Go Kart Social to be held on June 28 at Pole Position Raceway Vegas at 5:30pm; Rosealee Hendrick announced the New Member Orientation to be held on Tuesday, June 18 from 6:00-8:30pm; Jerry Sennes announced Bonny Springs Highway Cleanup with brunch to follow on June 15 at 8:00am; Past President and Assistant District Governor Michael Gordon reminded the Club of the upcoming Debunking of President Jim Kohl on June 27, 2019; Guest Speaker Past President David Thorson provided an overview of the United Service Organizations, Inc. (USO) for which he is the current Center Director in Las Vegas. There are four physical centers in the community, two located at the McCarran International Airport and new installations on Nellis AFB and Creech AFB. The USO has focused programs to serve men and women in the U.S. military and their families throughout their service years and as they transition from military to civilian life. The USO is supported by the efficient use of grants, donations, and enormous amounts of generous volunteer work. President Jim Kohl adjourned the meeting at 1:30pm. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for June 20, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  29. 81

    David Thorson – The USO – The Force Behind the Forces

    The Wheel for June 13, 2019 Listen to David Thorson &#8211; The USO &#8211; The Force Behind the Forces The Wheel Download David Thorson &#8211; The USO &#8211; The Force Behind the Forces David is currently the Center Director for the USO in Las Vegas where he is responsible for four USO Centers, development activities and a Pathfinder team that assists active duty military transition to civilian employment. He also serves on the board of directors for Nevada Trust Company and Trustar Corporation. He held management and executive roles at Ford Motor Company and Hewlett-Packard, respectively, as well as executive roles at three technology start-up companies in operations, finance, marketing and sales. Throughout his career he has lived or worked in 7 different countries. MBA from Escuela Superior de Administración y Dirección de Empresas (Barcelona, Spain); Master of International Management from the Thunderbird School of Global Management (Glendale, AZ); Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics, University of Arizona (Tucson, AZ). David is a Past President of the Las Vegas Rotary Club and past Assistant District Governor for Rotary District 5300. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, Today we welcome Past President Dave Thorson as our speaker. Dave is the Center Director of the USO that is located in McCarran International Airport. USO is short for United Service Organizations, Inc. According to its website, the USO provides support to service members and their families through programs focused on connection, strengthening, wellness and resiliency. The USO was formed in 1941 after Franklin D. Roosevelt requested that something be done to help the U.S. troops.The USO was originally formed to provide entertainment to the U.S. troops who were fighting in World War II. The goal was to provide U.S. troops with a slice of home, so that they could remember what they were fighting for and what was waiting for them when they got home. Through the years numerous celebrities have donated their time and risked their safety to entertain our troops while serving on foreign soil. Although it disbanded for a period after World War II, the USO has been in continual operation since the Korean war.As we will learn from PP Dave, the USO’s scope of services has greatly expanded from providing entertainment to our troops. Many thanks to PP Dave for the help and services he and the USO provides to our troops. Jim Kohl 95th President Rotary Club of Las Vegas &nbsp; Member Highlights The real Birthday Members were Janice Lencke, Tom Krob and Howie Hopkinson. The rest were impersonators. President Jim presented our speaker Greg Britton from AFWERX with our Share What You Can Award. PP Tom Thomas missed his chance at the Joker. PP Steve Linder led us in song. PP Russ Swain was going to bomb my picture of Jaime Goldsmith but decided to do it properly. PP Michael Gordon introduce the president elect Bob Beck from the new Rotary After Hours club that we sponsored. PP Jim Tucker won the Lawry Bucks. PP Dave Thorson brought us up to date on the next Wetzel Awards. New Member Michelle Roy was welcomed into our club. New Hollingsworth Elementary principals Staca Sadie and Mia Nelson accept a check for 5 new Apple computers for the school. Kirk Alexander gave us an update on upcoming projects. Janice Lencke presented a check for $1,500 to Pam Lang and Lisa Habigorst from Spread The Word Nevada. Deb Granda was joined for lunch by her good friend Michelle. Deb Granda our Sergeant At Arms and PP Ginger Anderson posed for a pic. At Jim’s Head table were our speaker Greg Britton, Kirk Holmes, and the speakers aide Evan Yeager from AFWERX. Andy Kuniyuki gave our invocation. Scribe &#8211; June 6, 2019 .Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: June 6, 2019 President Jim Kohl convened the meeting at 12:20pm: Andy Kuniuki gave the invocation; Past President Steve Linder served as the song leader; Deb Granda was the Sergeant-at-Arms; There were 8 visiting Rotarians, one from Lawrence Kansas and seven from the Las Vegas Rotary After Hours Club; Five guests of Rotarians attended the meeting; Staca Sadie, the new principal of Hollingsworth Elementary School along with her assistant principal Mia Nelson where also present at the meeting; Our guest speaker Greg Britton and Kirk Holmes joined President Jim at the head table; Three Rotarians celebrated birthdays this month, Janice Lehnke, Past President Tom Krob, and Howie Hopkinson; President Elect Richard Jost presented a check for $1,500 from the Las Vegas Rotary Club Foundation to Staca Sade, the new principal of Hollingsworth Elementary School, to fund the purchase of Apple TV devices to be used for instructional purposes; Janice Lenke provided a recap of the Cuisine &amp; Octane annual fundraiser and presented a check for $1,500 to Spread the Word Nevada, the beneficiary of the fundraiser. Lisa Habbingost and Pam Lang, founders of Spread the Word Nevada were present to receive the check; Past President and Assistant District Governor Michael Gordon officially welcomed into Rotary the Las Vegas Rotary After Hour Club, presented a flag to the Club’s President Rob Beck; Rob Beck, President of Las Vegas Rotary After Hours Club announced the Club’s Charter party that will take place on July 12; New member Michelle Roy, sponsored by Kirk Holmes, was inducted into the Club; Past President Dave Thorson made an announcement on the Wetzel Awards that will take place on June 19 at Nellis AFB; Past President and Assistant District Governor Michael Gordon gave a reminder on the availability of Club matching points for members who want to become Paul Harris Fellows or upgrade their Paul Harris status. ADG Gordon also reminded the Club of the upcoming Debunking of President Jim Kohl on June 27, 2019; Jamie Goldsmith announced the upcoming SOAR on Monday, September 16, at 8:00am at Las Vegas City Hall; Guest speaker Greg Britton gave a presentation on AFWERX. AFWERX is a United States Air Force program with the goal of fostering a culture of innovation within the service. Encompassing a number of programs supported with relatively small amounts of funding, the initiative is intended to circumvent bureaucracy and engage new entrepreneurs in Air Force programs; President Jim Kohl adjourned the meeting at 1:30pm; <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for June 13, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  30. 80

    Greg Britton – Projects and Goals of AFWERX

    The Wheel for June 6, 2019 Listen to Greg Britton &#8211; Projects and Goals of AFWERX The Wheel Download Greg Britton &#8211; Projects and Goals of AFWERX A recognized leader in the community, Greg Britton has both public and private sector acumen. Mr. Britton’s drive and focused determination for success in the private sector and public sector is recognized by many in the community. He has revitalized, turned around, and led multiple organizations to astonishing results and businesses to record earnings. Mr. Britton is currently the Interim Director of AFWERX Vegas and holds the position of Chief of Strategic   Partnerships with DEFENSEWERX out of Niceville, Florida. During his tenure in the private sector, Mr. Britton found a new love and passion for his community. His business travels and projects aligned with the targeted industries of the state of Florida and of the Northwest Florida region. Mr. Britton began working with economic development professionals to promote the Northwest Florida Region to companies looking to relocate to Florida. After nearly 30 years in the private sector, Mr. Britton decided to make a career change and practice his passion for economic growth and resiliency for the state of Florida. Mr. Britton joined the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) as the Director of the Division of Strategic Business Development in August 2017. During his Time at DEO as the Director of Strategic Business Development, Mr. Britton applied his business management style and team building skills to make significant gains within the Division. He built a highly competent team that was accountable and results focused. Mr. Britton received a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering from Trine University and serves as a board member on the University of West Florida Board of Trustees and the Florida SBDC Advisory Board &nbsp; Message From The President Dear Rotarians, Today marks the 75th anniversary of Operation Overlord. Operation Overlord was the long anticipated landing of 160,000 Allied troops along a 50-mile stretch of beaches in Normandy, France. More than 5,000 Ships and 13,000 aircraft supported the D-Day invasion, and by day’s end, the Allies gained a foot-hold in Continental Europe. The operation began the liberation of German-occupied France, and later Europe. The landings expanded into the Western Front and led to the Allied victory over Germany. While people often refer to Operation Overlord as D-Day, the term D-Day is used by the United States military to refer to the date any operation begins. The United States military participated in numerous D-Days in Africa, Europe and the Pacific. Planners also use the term H-Hour to refer to the time the operation begins. Military plans are normally complex and scheduled with daily goals. Those goals are identified as D+1, D+5, etc. All of this assumes the original goals of each D-Day are met. During Operation Overlord, the Allies failed to achieve any of their goals on the first day. The plans were adjusted each day but maintained their reference Operation Overlord’s D-Day. Jim Kohl 95th President Rotary Club of Las Vegas Member Highlights Toni Kern started the meeting with the invocation. Ted McAdam led us in song. PP Ginger Anderson was joined for lunch by her mother Joan. PP/AG Michael Gordon brought us up to date on the debunking party for President Jim. PP/AG Michael and President Jim posed for a picture with Francesca Gilbert and her Daughters Alyssa and Natalie who were awarded level II Paul Harris Fellowships by their mother. Our Sergeant at arms was Dan Adamson who introduced President Jim’s wife Judith. Our memorial day presentations were presented by Ted McAdam, Greg Maguire, Walter Parrish and PP Steve Linder. A great reminder to us all that Freedom is not Free Kirk Holmes was well dressed for Memorial Day…..Nice Shoes. Jaime Goldsmith reminded us of the SOAR event and asked for members for their support in attendance and as balloon wranglers. In remembrance of Memorial Day we set up a Missing Man Table. Francesca’s daughter Alyssa won the Lawry Bucks and plans on taking her sister to dinner. Carolyn Sparks missed the Joker but doubled her money with a $10 spot. Bob Werner reported that there was an international Rotarian who did not show. Sit down Bob. President Elect Jackie Thornhill reminded us of the Paul Harris Matching funds. She is off to Hamburg Germany for the Rotary International Convention June 1st through the 5th. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for June 6, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  31. 79

    Memorial Day

    The Wheel for May 30, 2019 Listen to Memorial Day The Wheel Download Memorial Day   Presentations by:       Ted McAdam,       Steve Linder,   Walter Parrish and       Greg Maguire &nbsp; Memorial Day is an American holiday, observed annually on the last Monday of May, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades. The Civil War, which ended in the spring of 1865, claimed more lives than any conflict in U.S. history and required the establishment of the country’s first national cemeteries. By the late 1860s, Americans in various towns and cities had begun holding springtime tributes to these countless fallen soldiers, decorating their graves with flowers and reciting prayers. It is unclear where exactly this tradition originated; numerous different communities may have independently initiated the memorial gatherings. Nevertheless, in 1966 the federal government declared Waterloo, New York, the official birthplace of Memorial Day. Waterloo—which first celebrated the day on May 5, 1866—was chosen because it hosted an annual, community-wide event, during which businesses closed and residents decorated the graves of soldiers with flowers and flags. Memorial Day, as Decoration Day gradually came to be known, originally honored only those lost while fighting in the Civil War. But during World War I the United States found itself embroiled in another major conflict, and the holiday evolved to commemorate American military personnel who died in all wars. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, Today our program remembers and honors those who gave their lives in service of our country. While we have all seen movies where a mother answers the door to learn that her son was killed in action, that scene does not tell the whole story. This weekend I attended the funeral of Garrett Meriwether. Garrett was a friend of the family and the son of our friends Steve and Debbie. He was just 18 years old when he was killed by a driver who is charged with driving while intoxicated. Garrett’s wake, funeral and burial were the saddest things I have ever been witness to. I literally cried for three days. It wasn’t just me, the entire village that raised Garrett cried over his untimely loss, including the priests that performed the Christian Rite of Burial. I use the term village to describe the people that knew Garrett and his family during his short life. While attending Garrett’s ceremonies, I got to thinking about how the village that raised Garrett all mourned his loss and how the villages of soldiers who were killed in action experienced the same pain. While the image of the mother crumpling to her knees in tears when she receives the news that her son has been killed in combat is accurate, it fails to do the tragedy justice because it omits the family friends and other people from the soldier’s village who feel the sharp pain of the loss of one of their own. According to PBS more than 1.1 million American soldiers have been killed in combat since the birth of our nation. 1.1 million villages stood together at funerals and cried for the loss of their child. When we remember our fallen soldiers each year we pray for their souls. We should also pray that their family, friends and fellow villagers are able to find peace and comfort. Jim Kohl 95th President Rotary Club of Las Vegas Member Highlights Bob Werner led us in song with God Bless America. PP Jim Hunt poses with our new UNLV basketball coach T.J. Otzelberger and the UNLV Athletic Director Desiree Reed-Francois. Sergeant at Arms Rose Falocco accepts a banner from Aaron Campillo from a Philippine Rotary Club he visited. President Jim presented Coach T.J. Otzelberger with our “Share What You Can” award. Val Hatley won the Lawry bucks and Steve Kwon the Rotary License plate frame. PP Karen Whisenhunt recapped our putting tournament with 85 players with a benefit to our foundation of over $1,500. Debra Granda gave us a recap of the SuperBuild project in Mexico. David Squire announced the next highway cleanup date and get together at Jerry Sennes’s house afterwards. Rob Pistone was recognized for being on Channel 3 with a fine for $300. Sidra Kain missed the joker and received the $10 default prize. Tina Bishop gave our invocation. Jaimee Goldsmith announced the SOAR Award presentation at City Hall on 9-16. Debra Granda gave us a recap of the SuperBuild project in Mexico. Carey Grohs announced the need for volunteers to serve dinners at the Las Vegas Rescue Mission. Val Hatley won the Lawry bucks and Steve Kwon the Rotary License plate frame. Scribe &#8211; May 23, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  May 23, 2019 President Jim called the meeting to order.  Tina Bishop gave the invocation.  Bob Werner led the club in singing God Bless America, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.  The Sergeant at Arms was Rose Falocco: There were (0) International Rotarians, (1) visiting Rotarians and (5) Guests of Rotarians introduced; Aaron Campillo presented the RC of Manila Premier (who Senator Manny Pacquiao was the charter president of) banner he brought back from visiting them in the Philippines; President Jim’s announcements: we have scheduled the Club deep sea fishing excursion on 6/21, more info to follow; Janet Linder is battling pneumonia so please keep her in your prayers; Deb Granda discussed the 5/18 Corazon Super Build that she, Jimmelle Siarot, Kirk Alexander and Chan Lam had the pleasure of experiencing; it was a long, hard day to build the house and rewarding to hand the house and keys to a deserving family at the end of the day, who had also made us lunch; the Corazon volunteers also gave the family housewarming gifts, and we strongly recommend everyone to experience Super Build at least once; PP Karen Whisenhunt recapped the Golf Putting Tournament on 5/19 that we had 85 golfers signed up and special thanks to our major sponsor Meadows Bank, our 22 whole sponsors and of course our golfers we raised $1,559 for our Youth Exchange Program; Jaime Goldsmith discussed the upcoming SOAR Awards presentation on 9/16 at the City Hall council chambers; we also have a fundraiser for SOAR with balloon wranglers needed for the 4th of July Parade, for which the Summerlin Patriotic Parade will donate $35 for each wrangler volunteer we provide; Dave Squier announced the next 8 am 6/15 Highway Cleanup and immediately followed by a party hosted by Jerry Sennes, we’ll meet directly across from Bonnie Springs to clean-up about a 3 mile stretch of highway; PP/AG Michael Gordon discussed the debunking party 6/27 for President Jim, and reminded attendees to bring new pair(s) of athletic stocks that will be collected and donated thru Project 150 to those in need in Vegas; PP/AG Michael Gordon then elaborated on Brenda Cressey, Chair of the RI Foundation, visit to our Club on 7/11 during which we will award Paul Harris Fellowship Awards, and to please let Shawn Noorda know if you’ll be bringing guests to the 7/11 meeting so we can plan lunch accordingly; Carey Grohs discussed the 25 Club organized event to serve community dinner at the LV Rescue Mission on 5/28, and Pinot Palette is 6/1 at 4:30 pm for a little wine and some painting; President Jim called on Rob Pistone to explain his Channel 3 NBC news appearance in which he was attempting to sell a house, and then thanked Rob for his $300 gift to the Club; The weekly drawing began at $953 plus this week’s donations. The Ticket Winner was Sidra Kain, who received a prize of $10, and the Lawry’s Bucks winner was Val Hatley, and a bonus prize of a Rotary license plate frame which Steven Kwon won; PP Jim Hunt introduced our program speaker Coach T.J. Otzelberger, the 14th fulltime head coach in UNLV men’s basketball history; President Jim presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit a veteran in need and adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for May 30, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  32. 78

    Coach T.J. Otzelberger – UNLV Basketball Runnin’ Rebels

    The Wheel for May 23, 2019 Coach T.J. Otzelberger &#8211; UNLV Basketball Runnin&#8217; Rebels The Wheel Download Coach T.J. Otzelberger &#8211; UNLV Basketball Runnin Rebels T.J. Otzelberger became the 14th full-time head coach in UNLV men&#8217;s basketball history on March 27, 2019. Otzelberger came to UNLV after serving as head coach at South Dakota State University for three seasons (2016-19), leading the Jackrabbits to two NCAA Tournaments and one NIT appearance. Otzelberger (&#8220;OTTS-ell-BURGER&#8221;) lifted the program at South Dakota State to new heights, where he compiled an overall record of 70-33, led the Jackrabbits to three straight postseason appearances, clinched the outright regular-season Summit League title the past two seasons, and earned the conference&#8217;s Coach of the Year honors. Under Otzelberger, the Jackrabbits were one of the top offensive teams in the nation, ranking in the top 10 among all NCAA teams in scoring during the last two seasons: 2017-18 (7th), 2018-19 (5th). Prior to SDSU, Otzelberger served two separate stints as an assistant coach at Iowa State, covering eight seasons. He began his first tour in Ames in 2006 under then-head coach Greg McDermott and was later elevated to associate head coach in 2010 by then-head coach Fred Hoiberg. The 2011-12 Iowa State squad achieved a top-25 national ranking for the first time in seven years and defeated defending national champion Connecticut in the NCAA Tournament en route to 23 wins. Following the 2012-13 season, Otzelberger moved on to the University of Washington for two years, where he served as associate head coach on then-head coach Lorenzo Romar&#8217;s staff. The Huskies were ranked as high as No. 11 during the 2014-15 season and Otzelberger played a key role in putting together a top-10 nationally ranked recruiting class. Otzelberger returned to Iowa State in the spring of 2015 as an assistant coach. As a member of Steve Prohm&#8217;s staff, he helped lead the Cyclones to a 23-12 overall record and a berth in the NCAA Tournament&#8217;s Sweet 16. The Cyclones were ranked in the top 25 throughout the 2015-16 season and reached the Sweet 16 before falling to top-seeded Virginia in the regional semifinals. A native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Otzelberger, 41, earned a degree from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater where he played collegiately and was a two-year team captain. His coaching career started at Burlington Catholic Central High School in Wisconsin before spending one season at Chipola JC in Florida. Otzelberger is married to Alison Lacey, a former Iowa State standout who also played for the WNBA&#8217;s Seattle Storm. The couple has three children, Jayce, Olivia and Stella. OTZELBERGER&#8217;S COACHING FILE 2019-        UNLV Head Coach 2016-19    South Dakota State Head Coach 2015-16    Iowa State Assistant Coach 2013-15    Washington Associate Head Coach 2010-12    Iowa State Associate Head Coach 2006-10    Iowa State Assistant Coach 2004-05    Chipola College (Marianna, FL) Assistant Coach 2001-04    Burlington (WI) Catholic Central HS Head Coach Message From The President Dear Rotarians, As many of you know, I grew up in Philadelphia, PA. When I was in high school I became very interested in sports and began to follow the local professional teams. I was also exposed to collegiate men’s basketball which is extremely popular in Philadelphia due to the annual big five tournament among the division 1 colleges located in the metropolitan area. Like many sporting fans I fell in love with March Madness, the NCAA men’s basketball championship. As a follower of collegiate men’s basketball, I became aware of a team from out west that played a wide-open brand of basketball, the UNLV Running Rebels. In 1990 I was on a ski trip driving from Jackson Hole Wyoming to Salt Lake City Utah. During that drive we listened to the championship game between UNLV and Duke. The Running Rebels ran Duke out of the gym, scoring 103 points and beating Duke by 30. UNLV remains the only team to ever score more than 100 points in the men’s championship game. Today we welcome the Running Rebels new coach, T. J. Otzelberger, formerly of the South Dakota State Jackrabbits and the 2018 Summit League coach of the year. Please join me in wishing coach Otzelberger and the Running Rebels the best of luck for this year and beyond. Jim Kohl 95th President Rotary Club of Las Vegas Member Highlights President Jim presented Barbara Billitzer with her check for $703 from winning the raffle. PP Karen Whisenhunt announced that we have 93 golfers registered for the upcoming putting tournament. Kirk Alexander missed the opportunity of winning the pot. Bob Werner and the acting Sergeant At Arms introduced a visiting Rotarian from the Philippines. At President Jim’s head table were our speaker Kathi Thomas Gibson, Katie Decker and Josh Lambert. Annee Nounna won the Weekly Lawry Bucks drawing. Last Week’s meeting was presented by the Kideract Students from Bracken Elementary. They opened the meeting, gave the invocation, song and the pledge of allegiance. And performed the duties of the Greeters and Sargent At Arms. What a professional job they did. Katie was recognized by our club with a honorary membership including a level 2 Paul Harris Fellow, a Tiberti Foundation Fellow and appreciative hugs from our foundation board. Last Week’s meeting was presented by the Kideract Students from Bracken Elementary. They opened the meeting, gave the invocation, song and the pledge of allegiance. And performed the duties of the Greeters and Sargent At Arms. What a professional job they did. Katie was recognized by our club with a honorary membership including a level 2 Paul Harris Fellow, a Tiberti Foundation Fellow and appreciative hugs from our foundation board. Last Week’s meeting was presented by the Kideract Students from Bracken Elementary. They opened the meeting, gave the invocation, song and the pledge of allegiance. And performed the duties of the Greeters and Sargent At Arms. What a professional job they did. Katie was recognized by our club with a honorary membership including a level 2 Paul Harris Fellow, a Tiberti Foundation Fellow and appreciative hugs from our foundation board. President Jim presented our speaker Kathi Thomas-Gibson of the Courtyard Homeless Resource Center with our Share What You Can Award. Last Week’s meeting was presented by the Kideract Students from Bracken Elementary. They opened the meeting, gave the invocation, song and the pledge of allegiance. And performed the duties of the Greeters and Sargent At Arms. What a professional job they did. Katie was recognized by our club with a honorary membership including a level 2 Paul Harris Fellow, a Tiberti Foundation Fellow and appreciative hugs from our foundation board. Scribe &#8211; May 16, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  May 16, 2019 Cashyus Baker called the meeting to order.  Giselle Gonzalez gave the invocation. Aryan Singh and Samantha Santos led the club in singing You’re a Grand Old Flag, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.  The Sergeant at Arms was Stephen Alston: There were (1) International Rotarians, (1) visiting Rotarians and (9) Guests of Rotarians introduced; President Jim’s announcements: Corazon Super Build is on 5/18 in Tecate, Mexico; we are planning a Club deep sea fishing excursion, more info to follow; Our partner STWN (Spread the Word Nevada), with Zappos sponsorship, recently adopted Howard Hollingsworth STEAM Academy; President Jim presented Barbara Billitzer with a check for her $703 winnings from a club meeting raffle drawing; Josh Lamers spoke about Katie Decker’s recent retirement as principal of three elementary schools; followed by PP Randy Campanale and PP Jim Hunt expanding on the LVRC’s partnership with Katie and her schools these past two decades; Katie thanked the speakers, the Club and other organizations that made all the successes possible; President Jim then presented Katie with Club gifts (including a custom crystal glass sculpture that Janice Lencke was able to procure, and a luggage set for Katie’s future travels) to commemorate her accomplishments; Paul Maffey announced that the Club was awarding Katie with her Paul Harris +2; Rosalee Hedrick then inducted Katie as a new member of the Club; Jaime Goldsmith announced the upcoming SOAR Awards presentation on 9/16 at the City Hall council chambers, and balloon wrangler volunteers are needed for the 4th of July Parade in Summerlin; PP Karen Whisenhunt stated we are at 93 golfers for the Golf Putting Tournament on 5/19 11 am-2 pm at Angel Park Golf Club; Joakim Nyoni discussed the 25 Club organized event to serve community dinner at the LV Rescue Mission on 5/28 at 4:15 pm, and the next Alpine Picnic is on 7/7 at 9 am for hiking led by PP Russ Swain and 11 am for the picnic event; PP/AG Michael Gordon discussed the huge party 6/27 at Angel Park for President Jim’s debunking, 17:30 for cocktails and 18:00 for the dinner, and requested attendees bring new pair(s) of athletic stocks that will be collected and donated thru Project 150 to those in need in Vegas; The weekly drawing began at $746 plus this week’s donations. The Ticket Winner was Kirk Alexander, who received a prize of $10, and the Lawry’s Bucks winner was Annee Nounna; Tina Bishop introduced our program speaker Kathy Thomas-Gibson of The Courtyard; President Jim presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit a veteran in need and adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for May 23, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  33. 77

    Kathi Thomas-Gibson – The Courtyard Homeless Resource Center

    The Wheel for May 16, 2019 Listen to Kathi Thomas-Gibson &#8211; The Courtyard Homeless Resource Center The Wheel Download Kathi Thomas-Gibson &#8211;  The Courtyard Homeless Resource Center Kathi Thomas-Gibson addresses comprehensive community initiatives as the Director for the Office of Community Services for the City of Las Vegas. In this role Ms. Thomas-Gibson oversees key projects addressing homelessness, affordable housing development, education, youth services, neighborhood revitalization, and services for special needs populations. Ms. Thomas-Gibson has more than 25 years of experience implementing federal grants programs including Community Development Block Grants, Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS, Welfare-to-Work, and other special purpose programs for at-risk communities. She is often a convener of key stakeholders and has successfully addressed complex, longstanding problems through collaborative leadership approaches. Ms. Thomas-Gibson has worked in both the not-for-profit and public sectors to enhance meaningful change in service delivery systems so that programs are efficient and effective. Ms. Thomas-Gibson has been an adjunct instructor and frequent lecturer for higher education systems in Nevada and California. Her area of focus is leadership and management, with an emphasis on community engagement strategies. She has a Master’s in Public Administration and received her Bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of California, Berkeley. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, Given the number of years she has been visiting us, I think Katie Decker beat Murray from Calgary as the person who has visited our Club the most.  Today marks a milestone transition for her.  Today is Katie’s last visit to our Club as a guest.  Please join me in wishing Katie well in her “retirement.”  I put retirement in quotes because she is not retiring to go play golf.  Katie decided to take her talents to CitiSim, a project that she spoke to us about several weeks ago.  While Katie will not be joining us a guest any longer, I am happy to report that she will be joining us a member of the Club as soon as we can induct her.      For quite some time, Katie has joined us on the second week of each month.  Our long time partnership with Katie and her schools allowed her to see the various events and projects that we supported and participated in at her schools, in community and in the world.  When it came time to ask her to join, the Club had already sold itself as a worth activity.   The members of this Club have been blessed with an abundance of resources.  Your friends and peers are similarly situated and are looking for meaningful ways to give back to the community and beyond.  I can’t encourage you enough to invite your friends to attend Club meetings, and more importantly Club social events and Projects so that they can see how much fun it is to be a Rotarian.  Invite a friend to join us for lunch and an event.  Help President Elect Jackie meet her goal of growing the Club to 150 active members.  Give the gift of Rotary to the world.m! Jim Kohl 95th President Rotary Club of Las Vegas Member Highlights the-weekly-ticket-wThe weekly ticket winner was Aaron Overton. Shannon Brown offered tickets to the Beckley School production of Jungle Book. Scott Hartshorne led the Club God Bless America. Rose Falocco gave a moving Invocation. Joakim Nyoni accepts his fine with a smile! LV Rotary Club wins The Governors Bell for the 2nd year in a row. Janice Lencke and Jackie Thornhill praised the results of Cuisine and Octane. Francesca Gilbert announces Natalie Gilbert won the 4-Way Speech Contest. Brett Lashbrook, owner of the LV Lights was the featured speaker. Bob Barnard won the Lawry Bucks. Scribe &#8211; May 9, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  May 9, 2019 President Jim called the meeting to order.  Rose Falocco gave the invocation.  Scott Goodhearts (sp) led the club in singing God Bless America, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.  The Sergeant at Arms was Michael Cudiamat: President Jim encouraged members to share the live stream of our meeting on social media to share our message and our Club with others; There were (4) International Rotarians, (0) visiting Rotarians and (1) Guests of Rotarians introduced; Richard Jost exchanged banners with Anders Norln of Rotary Taby, Sweden, and with Nicholas Duncan of RC of Port Nicholson, New Zealand; President Jim’s announced our Club won the Governor’s Bell again, the first club to do so back-to-back, which was a close race with another club and the tie-breaker was our Club turning dues in on a timely manner, credit to Shawn Noorda; Francesca Gilbert announced that Natalie Gilbert, who our Club selected to represent us, won the District level 4-Way Speech Contest; Janice Lencke and PE Jackie Thornhill updated us on the Cuisine &amp; Octane success: as we kept expenses low thanks to our generous sponsors (such as our longtime partners Craig Miller and Anderson-Miller-Pinkelman) and vendors we raised $18,600 (close to the goal of $20,000, it’s not too late to donate) which goes in to next year’s budget during PE Jackie’s presidency, and we recognized the Annual Fundraiser Committee for their hard work; Shannon Brown, Beckley Elementary School principal, thanked the Rotarians who helped at Beckley Field Day last week, and announced she had $3 tickets for the school children’s performance of the Jungle Book at 5:30 pm and on 5/10 at the same time; PP Karen Whisenhunt reminded members of the approaching family-friendly Golf Putting Tournament on 5/19 11 am-2 pm at Angel Park Golf Club, we currently have about 75 golfers (of which about 23 are children) and more sponsors and golfers welcome – no experience necessary; PE Jackie Thornhill announced: please sign up for committees by 5/31 so the Board can also select committee chairs; the match of up to 50% for the Paul Harris fellowship ends 6/30, and Brenda Cressey, Rotary Foundation International Chair, on 7/11 will be the guest speaker and will present Paul Harris awards that day; Joakim Nyoni discussed the event to serve community dinner at the LV Rescue Mission on 5/28 at 4:15 pm; PP/AG Michael Gordon discussed the huge party 6/27 at Angel Park for President Jim’s debunking, involving more water than ever; President Jim called on Glenn Meier to discuss his recently published law article, and for being an unpaid author he would make a $200 donation; then PP Randy Donald explained his experience at the Kentucky Derby with Sally Donald, and as PP Randy had won some money his fine was $400; PP Tom Krob, who along with his wife Jane was at the Kentucky Derby with the Donalds, also had won some money and his fine was $200; Joakim Nyoni explained the picture that PP Steve Linder had taken of him at the District Conference, Joakim saying that he couldn’t keep up with PP Steve and Janet Linder’s partying during a cigar social late night, and so he was selected to make a $200 donation; The weekly drawing began at $645 plus this week’s donations. The Ticket Winner was Aaron Overton, who received a prize of $50 with the card he pulled, and the Lawry’s Bucks winner was Bob Barnard, and winner of the bonus prize (a Rotary frame for a car license plate) was PP/AG Michael Gordon; Francesca Gilbert introduced our program speaker Brett Lashbrook of the Las Vegas Lights Football Club; President Jim presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit a veteran in need and adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for May 16, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    Listen to Brett Lashbrook – Las Vegas Lights

    The Wheel for May 9, 2019 Listen to Brett Lashbrook &#8211; Las Vegas Lights   The Wheel Download Brett Lashbrook &#8211; Las Vegas Lights Brett Lashbrook is the Owner and Chief Executive Officer of Las Vegas Lights Football Club (FC). Prior to forming Lights FC, Lashbrook had an extensive background in soccer, which includes work at Major League Soccer’s headquarters in New York City as Special Assistant to the Commissioner’s Office &amp; Legal Counsel.  He then served as the Chief Operating Officer for Orlando City Soccer Club, overseeing all business aspects of the club’s transition from the United Soccer League (USL) to Major League Soccer (MLS) – including finalization of plans for the club’s new 20,000-seat downtown stadium.   Lashbrook’s extended family has called Las Vegas home for nearly 20 years. &nbsp; Message From The President Dear Rotarians, There are times when I chose not to show how excited I am because I don&#8217;t want to offend people.  This is not one of those times.  WE WON THE GOVERNOR&#8217;S BELL for District 5300!!! I am exceptionally proud of our Club and I am very happy to report that your hard work has been recognized and rewarded by Governor John Chase.  You truly are People of Action and you deserve this award.  What is the Governor&#8217;s Bell and why did we win it?  The Governor&#8217;s Bell is an annual challenge issued by the governor of Rotary District 5300.  Each year our governor sets a series of goals for the clubs in our district to complete. The goals are designed to help the club grow and strengthen itself within the community, District 5300 and Rotary International.  The general topics for this year’s award consist of: Club Service, Vocational Activities, Community Service, International Service, Youth/New Generations Service, Membership Development, the Rotary Foundation and Public Image.  Because of your hard work and dedication to our Club, we achieved the highest level in each category with maximum points earned in all but two categories (slackers).  The Governor&#8217;s Bell has been in existence for six years.  We have won it three times and are the first club to win it in back to back years.  We have a lot of fun telling people that we are the best club in the world. For this Rotary year, we are objectively the best club in District 5300. Congratulations to each of you for a job well done. Jim Kohl 95th President Rotary Club of Las Vegas Member Highlights The May Birthday Trio: Rene Gamero, PP Randy Campanale,Carey Grohs Steve Linder and Newlywed Kirk Holmes. Robert Brinton won the Lawry Bucks Paul Maffey and P. Jim Kohl introduced the 2019 Tiberti Scholarship recipient Justin DeLeon Our Song leader Carey Grohs Our 2019 RYLA Participants Karen Whisenhunt reminds members of the upcoming GolfPutting Tournament. Janice Lencke recognized AE&#038;ES owner Gary Bordman and Owner Walter Carnwright and Lani Lopez of AGR for their support for our fundraiser Cuisine &#038; Octane Jaime Goldsmith won the drawing for the week. Andy Kuniyuki gave the Invocation Scribe &#8211; May 2, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: May 2, 2019 President Jim called the meeting to order. Andy Kuniyuki gave the invocation. Carey Grohs led the club in singing God Bless America, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The Sergeant at Arms was PP Steve Linder: Joakim Nyoni announced Randy Frost passed away peacefully on 4/29 surrounded by friends and family, and read the note Randy had his son Scott Frost pass on to Ted McAdam, addressed to the LVRC, and we rang the bell one last time for Randy; President Jim encouraged members to share the live stream of our meeting on social media to share our message and our Club with others; There were (1) International Rotarians, (1) visiting Rotarians and (9) Guests of Rotarians introduced; At the Birthday Table announcing their birthdays for this month: Carey Grohs, PP Randy Campanale and Rene Gamero; Sidra Kain led us in singing Happy Birthday; President Jim fined PP Russ Swain and Arleen Sirois for sitting at the Birthday Table though it’s not their birthday; President Jim’s announcements: the Corazon Super Build is 5/18; the District Conference is on 5/3-5/4; please submit People of Action campaign photos to President Jim, Francesca Gilbert or Adam Hommey; Dan Adamson reported on the Foundation board meeting last week with the new slate of officers being President Randy Campanale, Vice President Dan Adamson, Secretary Bob Werner and Secretary Paul Kruger, and Gary Vaus was elected as our new board member; as of 3/31/19 our endowment has $2.13 million, which allows distributing $59,722 for local charities, an all-time high amount, to PE Jackie Thornhill’s incoming presidency, as the endowment minimum is $1.35 million that allows a $730,000 cushion; talk to Shawn Noorda or Dan Adamson to find out where you stand with the Tiberti Fellowship designation; PP Randy Campanale asked the general membership to ratify Gary Vaus’ appointment to the board, which we did; Paul Maffey introduced this year’s Tiberti scholarship recipient, Justin DeLeon, a freshman at UNLV School of Engineering, who for the fall semester maintained a straight-A GPA and as of June 2018 has over 400 hrs of Las Vegas community service; Janice Lencke recognized the Annual Fundraiser Committee members who made Cuisine &amp; Octane a success, and next week will provide the final numbers from that fundraising; Janice gave special recognition to AE&amp;ES owner Gary Bordman, and owner Walter Carnwright and Lani Lopez of AGR (Amusement Game Rentals), these two companies provided over $12,000 worth of product to our event; Walter then gave President Jim a check as an additional contribution to our fundraising; Marie Walsh invited everyone to the upcoming Beckley Field Day on 5/3 1 pm – 3 pm at Will Beckley Elementary School; and Beckley ES is performing the Lion King play on 5/9–5/10 at 5:30 pm, to obtain tickets (free for children under 3) you can contact Marie; Carey Grohs discussed the Paint &amp; Pinot Palette social postponement on a date TBA; PP Karen Whisenhunt reminded members of the approaching family-friendly Golf Putting Tournament on 5/19 11 am-2 pm at Angel Park Golf Club, $30/adult and $15/child under 10, includes the BBQ lunch, looking for golfers to sign-up by 5/5 &#8211; no experience necessary, and looking for more sponsors; Speaking of golf, President Jim had Dan Adamson explain how he put the hurt on a lot of fellow players and won a little money at a recent golf tournament, then fined him; next was Kirk Holmes who now has a very happy life because he has a very happy wife, both seeing the Paul Harris plaque in Washington, DC (about a block from the White House) during their recent honeymoon, and Kirk was selected for a $200 unavoidable donation to the Club; The weekly drawing began at $500 plus this week’s donations. The Ticket Winner was Jaime Goldsmith, who received a prize of $10, and the Lawry’s Bucks winner was Robert Brinton; Kirk Alexander began the RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) presentation, with student program testimonials from Madison Kirkpatrick, Brooke D’Angelo and Erin Kobayashi Carey Groh’s foreign exchange student from Japan who after participating in our Highway Cleanup and learning of Rotary and RYLA, we were able to add to RYLA); Bill Houghton discussed RYLA objectives, and mentioned how some of the smaller RC’s sponsor 20 students to RYLA and asked our Club to consider increasing from 12 to 16 students to sponsor to future RYLA’s, and Carey Grohs provided a RYLA Facilitator testimonial; President Jim presented our student speakers with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit a veteran in need and adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for May 9, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    RYLA – Students

    The Wheel for May 2, 2019 RYLA &#8211; Students The Wheel Download RYLA &#8211; Students The two-and-a-half-day RYLA experience aims to provide potential youth leaders an arena to foster continued individual growth and service to their communities. This intensive experience includes Workshops, the RYLA Challenge, Plenary Sessions and Social activities. About 400 Youths from Southern California and Southern Nevada attended RYLA this year. Our student speakers today are the extraordinary young people that attended the 2019 Rotary Youth Leadership Awards leadership training at Camp Cedar Crest representing the Las Vegas Rotary Club. They will share their experiences and takeaways with us. Some of the Rotarians that attended will also share their experience. Representing the LVRC 2019 was Bill Houghton, Kim Nyoni, Chan Lam, Carey Grohs, Tina Bishop, Michael Williams*. The next opportunity for you to volunteer as a RYLA Facilitator is for District 5300 is March 20-22, 2020. See you there. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, This weekend we gathered at Celebrity Cars and celebrated with each other while raising funds for our foundation and our partner Spread the Word Nevada. I want to thank each member of our fundraising committee for their hard work on this year’s event. I also want to thank Celebrity Cars for hosting us again without charge. The fundraising committee’s hard work led to a refreshed event that allowed us to capture revenue from all of the attendees, something that we had not been able to with the car show format. The committee also secured the celebrity endorsement of Kevin Mack, among others, of the television show Count’s Kustoms. As an added bonus they told us that they wanted to be involved in next year’s event. The fundraising committee’s efforts allowed us to further our mission statement and to provide funds for one of our best partners, Spread the Word Nevada. As a direct result of everyone’s efforts, the life changing gift of reading will be made to youths throughout the Las Vegas Valley. The icing on the cake was that we accomplished this while enjoyed a fun filled evening of food fellowship and exotic cars. I thoroughly enjoyed attending it and I think we have a great template for moving forward. Thanks again to the fundraising committee for their hard work. Thank you also to the club members who made this such a fun event to attend. I am looking forward to next year. Jim Kohl 95th President Rotary Club of Las Vegas Member Highlights VTT Team receiving the &#8220;Share What You Can&#8221; Award. Speaker Rebecca Tolstoy with First Lady Kohl and PP Karen Whisenhut. PP Michael Gordon accepting a banner from Gavin Brown of Somerset UK. Karen Whisenhut won the Lawry&#8217;s Bucks. Janice Lencke and Deb Granda showed raffle items for our fundraiser. Guest Speaker Rebecca Tolstoy of VTT. Francesca Gilbert giving the Invocation. Chan Lam presenting a Banner from Jomtien-Pattaya Thailand Rotary Club. Carey Grohs discussed Paint and Pinots Pallet Social on 5/25. Barbara Billitzer won the Jackpot! Scribe &#8211; April 25, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  April 25, 2019 President Jim called the meeting to order.  Francesca Gilbert gave the invocation.  Jaime Goldsmith led the club in singing The Star Spangled Banner, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.  The Sergeant at Arms was Carolyn Sparks: President Jim encouraged members to share the live stream of our meeting on social media to share our message and our Club with others; There were (1) International Rotarians, (1) visiting Rotarians and (2) Guests of Rotarians introduced; Chan Lam presented the Jomtien-Pattaya RC banner he brought back from visiting them in Thailand; visiting Rotarian Gavin Brown of the RC of Somerset, U.K., and PP Michael Gordon exchanged banners; President Jim’s announcements: Stuart Lipoff provided us with club membership cards to invite prospective members to our meeting; the District Conference is on 5/3-5/4; please submit People of Action campaign photos to President Jim, Francesca Gilbert or Adam Hommey; PE Jackie Thornhill announced Paul Harris Fellowship contributors Michael Cudiamat andRene Gamero (both initial level), Stuart Lipoff Paul Harris+1, Carolyn Sparks Paul Harris+6 and Rose Fallocco Paul Harris+7; Janice Lencke and Deb Granda showed raffle items totaling over $4,000 for bidding on at the 4/27 fundraiser at Celebrity Cars, tickets available for purchase at our meeting and also at the event door; Janice then conducted a live auction of a $500 SPEEDVEGAS gift card that PP Michael Gordon won with a $400 bid, benefitting Spread the Word Nevada and our foundation; Marie Walsh invited everyone to the upcoming Beckley Field Day on 5/2 and 5/3 1 pm – 3 pm at Will Beckley Elementary School; and Beckley ES is performing the Lion King play on 5/9–5/10 afternoons, to obtain tickets (free for children under 3) you can contact Marie; PP Karen Whisenhunt reminded members of the approaching family-friendly Golf Putting Tournament on 5/19 11 am-2 pm at Angel Park Golf Club, $30/adult and $15/child under 10, includes the BBQ lunch, looking for 25 more golfers to sign-up by 5/5 &#8211; no experience necessary; Niki Bates updated us on the results of our Project 150 Drop Your Drawers drive to help 6k homeless teenage Vegas high school students, after Niki and Rene Gamero dropped off all the collected donations, thanks to Francesca Gilbert putting a “Donate” button on our Facebook site and members sharing our page, we received another $455 donation to give to Project 150 bringing our grand total to $1,320; Carey Grohs discussed the Paint &amp; Pinot Palette social postponement to 5/25 2 pm; Joakim Nyoni recapped the 4/22 Channel 13 “Morning Blend” show appearance by PE Jackie Thornhill, Janice Lencke and himself to discuss the history of the club and promote our fundraiser, benefitting Spread the Word Nevada which both the LVRC and Channel 13 has strong partnerships with, and DG John Chase recognizing the show appearance as a good use of media to promote RI and Clubs; PP Michael Gordon announced President Jim standing trial for his various missteps this past year, at 22 pages long and growing (e-mail PP Michael Gordon to add to the list), on 6/27 at Angel Park; President Jim called on Ryan Hamilton to explain why he hasn’t been sleeping well, reason being 3 weeks ago was the birth of his first child Blake, then he fined Ryan; The weekly drawing began at $1,170 plus this week’s donations. The Ticket Winner was Barbara Billitzer who drew the winning card and won the jackpot; and the Lawry’s Bucks winner was PP Karen Whisenhunt; PE Karen Whisenhunt introduced our program speakers, the Vocational Training Team from Australia, who work with Path of Hope, a collaboration between Rotary and the Salvation Army, whose mission is to break the inter-generational cycle of family and domestic violence.  Rebecca Tolstoy, Mark Crake, Margaret MacDonaldStg Darrel Hagan and Alison Kirby presented on the District 5300 and District 9455 (in Western Australia) partnership thru the Path of Hope approach that mobilizes the organizational capacity of Rotarians to support agencies and services that provide safety and empowerment to women and their children escaping family and domestic violence. President Jim presented our speakers with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit a veteran in need and adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for May 2, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  36. 74

    The Vocational Training Team from Australia

    The Wheel for April 25, 2019 Listen to The Vocational Training Team from Australia The Wheel Download The Vocational Training Team from Australia                                                                                   Rebecca Tolstoy AM     Margaret MacDonald          Mark Crake                                                                                      Stg Darrel Hagan             Spiro Gougoulis              Sarah-Jane Sharp  Six Western Australians are in District 5300 for 3 weeks, as part of a Vocational Training Team, between District 5300 and District 9455. Each team member is associated with Path of Hope, a collaboration between Rotary and the Salvation Army, whose mission is to break the inter-generational cycle of family and domestic violence. This program is the brain-child of Monrovia Rotarian Herb Heslip, who endowed the cost of this exchange. Its beneficiaries are restricted to District 5300 and the Rotary districts of Australia. Path of Hope is an approach that mobilizes the organizational capacity of Rotarians to support agencies and services that provide safety and empowerment to women and their children escaping family and domestic violence. The impact upon the well being of the person experiencing the violence can be profound, and life-threatening. Children in these families are at risk of developing post-traumatic stress and developmental disorders. These disorders can deliver a lifetime of emotional and economic cost to the individual and the community. The capacity to be violent to a loved one is a learned behavior and there is also a risk that those who grew up with it will continue the behavior in their own families. This is the cycle that needs to be broken. While in Las Vegas the team will visit Clark County School District, Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center and the Las Vegas Metro Police Department with stops at both the Green Valley and Las Vegas Rotary Clubs. &nbsp; Message From The President Dear Rotarians,  Today’s program features Rotarians from Australia who will tell us about their vocational service project.  What is vocational service and how does it fit into Rotary?  Rotary International informs us that the object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise and, in particular, to encourage and foster: (1) the development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service; (2) high ethical standards in business and professions; the recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations; and the dignifying of each Rotarian’s occupation as an opportunity to serve society; (3) the application of the ideal of service in each Rotarian’s personal, business, and community life;  and (4) the advancement of international understanding, goodwill, and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service. Rotarians are encouraged to put these ideals into action by (1) talking about their professions in their clubs, and taking the time to learn about fellow members’ occupations; (2) using their skills and expertise to serve a community; (3) practicing their profession with integrity, and to inspire others to behave ethically through words and actions; (4) helping young people to achieve their career goals; and (5) guiding and encouraging others in their professional development.  By undertaking these activities, Rotarians bring vocational service to life. Vocational service is the essence of Rotary and serves as the foundation from which we serve our communities around the world. Jim Kohl 95th President Rotary Club of Las Vegas Member Highlights Sidra Kain sang “America The Beautiful”. Sergeant At Arms PP Steve Linder and PP Karen Whisenhunt updated us on the putting tournament. President Elect Jackie Thornhill presented our speaker with our “Share What You Can Award”. PP Steve Linder exchanged banners with our visitor from Texas. Isn’t Texas its own Country? Our speaker, Marty Waldman donned his paper hat presented to him by Stu Lipoff to start his program. Our new member Kevin Cloney was introduced by Rosalee, PE Jackie and Janet Linder. Our fundraiser MC Donald Spalding and Kevin Cloney pulled the winner of a 6 person hot air balloon ride. The winner was Sally Donald…PP Randy picked up the prize. Marie Walsh gave us the final totals for Breakfast with Books. This year’s attendance was 1,868. Jerry Engel led us in prayer. Janet Lencke brought us up to date on our upcoming fundraiser. Gina Gentleman missed the Joker with a smile. Deb Granda won the Lawry’s Bucks. Carey Grohs reminded members of the Pinot’s Palette rescheduling to May 25th. At Jackie’s head table were our speaker Marty Waldman (L), Kevin Cloney and his guest. Annee Nounna posed for a birthday picture. HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANNEE! President Elect Jackie Thornhill stands in for Jim Kohl. Scribe &#8211; April 18, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  April 18, 2019 President Elect Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order.   Jerry Engel gave the invocation. Sidra Kain led the club in singing America The Beautiful, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.  The Sergeant at Arms was PP Steve Linder. There were (0) International Rotarians, (1) visiting Rotarians and (10) Guests of Rotarians introduced; PE Jackie encouraged members to share the live stream of our meeting on social media and to use the membership cards created by Stu Lipoff, reminded members  the combined District Conference/District Breakfast on 5/3-5/4 in Anaheim, and the Corazon Superbuild project on 5/18; and reminded members the club matching for Paul Harris fellow continues through the end of President Jim Kohl’s term; Rosalee Hedrick and Janet Linder inducted new member Kevin Cloney; Janice Lencke introduced the MC for the Cuisine &amp; Octane fundraiser, Donald Spalding, a dynamic and energetic person, who provided some highlights of the great upcoming event; Kevin Cloney of Love Is In The Air Hot Air Balloons pulled the winning Cuisine &amp; Octane Grand Prize raffle ticket for a $1,200 value Love Is In The Air 6 person hot air balloon ride, which was the club’s own Sally Donald with proxy PP Randy Donald accepting the great prize; PP Karen Whisenhunt reminded members of the approaching Putting &amp; Golf Tournament on 5/19, thanking the many sponsors but announced golfers are needed – no experience necessary; Bill Houghton encouraged support for our club’s 4 Way Test finalist, Natalie Gilbert, at District Conference; Marie Walsh provided some outstanding statistics from the academic year Breakfast With Books of the number of books handed out and read with a total of 1,868 in attendance; Carey Grohs reminded members of the Pinot’s Palette event 4/18 (which has subsequently be rescheduled to Saturday, May 25); PP/AG Michael Gordon announced the theme of the debunking party (since President Jim was not present) scheduled for 6/27; The weekly drawing began at $836 plus this week’s donations.  The Ticket Winner was Paul Kruger, who received a prize of $10, and the Lawry’s Bucks Winner was Deb Granda; Stu Lipoff introduced our program speaker, Marty Waldman,  BD &amp; Intellectual Director/Space Systems Architect for Space Information Labs (SIL), describing the many ways and how Las Vegas is in the beginning stages of the aerospace industry and future of space habitats, from air force collaboration, Nevada aerospace coalition, small self-contained nuclear reactors which would revolutionize Creech AFB, to obtaining a license for the return landing of ‘things from space’, and a spaceport, bringing Las Vegas to the forefront of aerospace; and PE Jackie presented Mr. Waldman with our “Share What You Can Award” and adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for April 25, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

  37. 73

    Marty Waldman – Space System Architecture

    The Wheel for April 18, 2019 Listen to Marty Waldman &#8211; Space System Architecture The Wheel Download Marty Waldman &#8211; Space System Architecture Mr. Waldman brings over 42 years of DoD Navy and Air Force Program Management experience to SIL from his technical involvement with Cruise Missile, Space Shuttle, Titan IV, Minuteman, Peacekeeper and Eastern/Western Range Data Acquisition and Processing Systems. With a keen eye on building business relationships to benefit SIL and its partners, Mr. Waldman leverages his understanding of projected DoD/ Commercial needs in conjunction with available technology and articulates this understanding to other SIL leadership for suggested implementation. Having successfully authored and prosecuted numerous Patents, Mr. Waldman’s insight and understanding of what’s necessary to bring a product to the commercial/ military market is continually demonstrated via the fielding of these and other key technologies. Leading applications include the Vehicle Based Independent Range System, Military Grade Small Satellites, and Space Rated Battery/Power Systems. B.S. Electrical Engineering, Northeastern University, 1977 Marty Waldman: BD &amp; Intellectual Property Director / Space Systems Architect for Space Information Labs (SIL) www.SpaceInformationlabs.com -Co-Founder of www.EndeavourInstitute.org -Las Vegas Chapter Chair of the Los Angeles/Las Vegas AIAA https://www.eventbrite.com/o/aiaa-los-angeles-las-vegas-section-543592698 -NDIA Southern Nevada Chapter President https://www.ndia.org/chapters?PageNumber=1&amp;ChapterName=&amp;City=LAS+VEGAS -Las Vegas Spaceport Project Lead @LasVegasSpaceport Message From The President Dear Rotarians, In the Rotary calendar for 2019-2020, April is Maternal and in the Rotary calendar for 2019-2020, April is Maternal and Child Health Month (which is one of Rotary’s six areas of focus).Every year, nearly 6 million children under the age of five die because of malnutrition, poor health care, and inadequate sanitation.To combat this, Rotary supports programs that provide health to vulnerable mothers and children so they can live longer and grow stronger. Haiti has the highest maternal and infant mortality rate of any country in the western hemisphere. To help alleviate this problem, Rotary clubs in Haiti worked with Rotary International to provide a fully equipped medical Jeep to volunteers and midwives so that they could provide services to mothers and children in remote areas. Nigeria also has an unacceptable mortality rate.There, Rotary members launched a $3 million, five-year program to save lives of mothers and children during home deliveries. As part of this program, they have repaired 1,500 obstetric fistulas, a hole develops in the birth canal as a result of childbirth and often causes incontinence. The program saved lives and restored the dignity and hope to these women. Women in Chennai, India suffer from a high mortality rate from breast and cervical cancer. To combat this problem, Rotarians provided a mobile cancer screening unit and awareness trainings around Chennai. Rotarians around the world are ready willing and able to support women and children but they need your help. In a shortwhile, President Elect Jackie will be sending our annual club pledge forms. Your donations to the Rotary Foundation will provide a profound impact on the lives of mothers and children throughout the world. I ask that you consider the impact your monthly donations will make when you fill out your pledge form for PE Jackie’s year Jim Kohl 95th President Rotary Club of Las Vegas &nbsp; Member Highlights Our speaker Dr. Thom Reilly was recognized with our Share What You Can Award. Kathy Mahon led us in prayer. Bob Werner exchanges banners with our International visitor. At our head table were PE Jackie Thornhill, PP Michael Gordon, Janice Lencke and our speaker Dr. Thom Reilly. At our Annual Valedictorian Luncheon all of the students stood up and were recognized for their hard work and dedication to gaining knowledge. Each student was recognized individually by school at the podium where they told us of their future plans and were presented with a Fisher Space Pen and a certificate of appreciation. You can never miss Jerry Engel when he leads us in song. You can never miss Jerry Engel when he leads us in song. Scribe &#8211; April 11, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  April 11, 2019 President Jim Kohl called the Annual Valedictorian meeting to order. Kathy Mahon gave the invocation. Jerry Engel led the club in singing God Bless America, including The Prologue, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The Sergeant at Arms was Doug Grant.  There were (1) International Rotarians, (1) visiting Rotarians and (1) Guests of Rotarians introduced; David Liles of Will Beckley ES, along with Principal Shannon Brown and Asst. Principal Cheryl Trupp congratulated all of the Valedictorians attending the meeting and announced upcoming events at Beckley, including Field Day May 3 and the Jungle Book Musical May 9-10, advising tickets could be obtained through Marie Walsh; Marie Walsh kicked off the LVRC annual recognition of the Valedictorians from each high school in Clark County Nevada, each individually recognized and being presented with a certificate and Space Pen, after stating their educational interests and accomplishments as well as their future/college plans;  There was no raffle drawing this week but will resume next meeting with the pot at $836; PP/AG Michael Gordon introduced our program speaker, Dr. Thom Reilly, Chancellor appointed by the Board of Regents as the CEO for the Nevada System of Higher Education. Taking on the theme of a life of significance and life of success, Dr. Reilly discussed the goals for higher education, stating that you need something beyond high school to reach the pathway of success and social mobility. The goals included improving access to higher education, noting Nevada is an ‘open access state’ and focusing on student success in graduating, restructuring the remedial education from college entry back to high school; addressing the ‘equity gap’, providing more counseling and advising to the students; focusing on the work force, meeting industry needs and noted a response to the demand was a partnership with MGM Resorts for the College Opportunity Program by paying for its employees to go to college; and research, needing to talk differently about why we need more research; President Jim presented Dr. Reilly with our “Share What You Can Award” and adjourned the meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp; <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for April 18, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    The Wheel for April 4, 2019

    The Wheel for April 4, 2019 Katie Decker &amp; Brian Rosenberg &#8211; CitySim The Wheel Download Katie Decker &#8211; CitySim Kathleen Decker has developed an effective magnet program that transformed Walter Bracken STEAM Academy completely. When Ms. Decker was appointed principal in 2001, Walter Bracken was one of the lowest performing schools in the district. Over the years, the award-winning program has received national, state, and local recognition. The Clark County School District was so impressed by the success at Walter Bracken; they franchised the program to two more underperforming schools and made Ms. Decker the principal of all three. Over the years she has focused on sustainability to ensure the school’s mission and vision live long past her tenure. Ms. Decker is most known for her sustainability by leveraging the community and building partnerships. She is passionate about school culture and climate. Ms. Decker has presented at several national conferences on building a school theme, starting a reading series program, giving students choice through explorations, using gardens in schools, and promoting financial literacy. She has mentored many educators and will continue to work towards creating engaging opportunities for students in the future. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, For such an amazing organization, it is surprising that Rotary discriminated against women into the late eighties. Although women were permitted to attend meetings, give speeches, receive awards, and form auxiliary organizations, the Rotary constitution excluded women from membership. The issue came to a head when the Duarte, California, Rotary Club (“Duarte”) admitted women to active membership. Rotary International’s (“RI”) response was to terminate Duarte from RI. Litigation ensued and it went all the way to the United States Supreme Court where RI lost its battle to keep discriminating against women. Thereafter, the 1989 Council on Legislation voted to admit women into Rotary clubs worldwide. While RI likes to highlight the fact that “the vote followed the decades-long efforts of men and women from all over the Rotary world to allow the admission of women into Rotary clubs” the fact remains that it was a divided vote that only passed after RI lost in the United States Supreme Court. On the positive side, the response to the decision to admit women was overwhelming. By June 1990, the number of female Rotarians had skyrocketed to over 20,000. In July 1995, eight women become district governors, the first elected to this role: Mimi Altman, Gilda Chirafisi, Janet W. Holland, Reba F. Lovrien, Virginia B. Nordby, Donna J. Rapp, Anne Robertson, and Olive P. Scott. By July 2016, the number of women worldwide had surpassed 250,000. Women immediately embraced the leadership opportunities provided by their Rotary clubs and have been making an impact in communities around the world. Our Club has been greatly enriched by our female members who have served on our committees, our boards and as President. In recognition of RI’s thirtieth anniversary of admitting women in Rotary, I ask that you make a donation to the RI Foundation. Jim Kohl 95th President Rotary Club of Las Vegas Member Highlights Steve Kwon pulled an ace and received $50. Sergeant at Arms Jaime Goldsmith and Kim Nyoni pose for a snapshot. President Jim presented our Speaker Judge Susan Johnson with our “Share What You Can Award.” President Jim and Rosalee inducted a new member Jacob White who was sponsored by PP Tom Thomas. PP Randy Donald updated us on the upcoming Debunking meeting. PP Karen Whisenhunt gave the invocation. Pamela Lang of Spread the Word Nevada expressed how our club has helped distribute its 5 millionth book to kids. Our first lady President Caty Crockett and longtime member Gary Vause joined for fellowship. Deb Granda received a check for winning last week’s drawing. Dave Lester won the Lawry Bucks. Bob Werner led us in song with “God Bless America.” Bill Houghton was joined for lunch by his daughter Payton. At President Jim’s head table were our speaker Judge Susan Johnson, Deb Granda and President Elect Jackie Thornhill. Scribe &#8211; March 28, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  March 28, 2019 President Jim called the meeting to order. PP Karen Whisenhunt gave the invocation. Bob Werner led the club in singing God Bless America, followed bythe Pledge of Allegiance.  The Sergeant at Arms was Jaime Goldsmith: President Jim encouraged members to share the live stream of our meeting on social media to share our message and our Club with others; There were (2) International Rotarians, (1) visiting Rotarians and (5) Guests of Rotarians introduced; President Jim’s announcements:The winner of our club’s 4-Way Test Speech Contest has won the next level and is advancing in the regional competition ; Stuart Lipoff provided us with club membership cards to invite prospective members to our meeting; if you’re attending the District Conference 5/3-5/4 please buy a Rotary shirt; the next Corazon SuperBuild is 5/18; Rosalee Hedrick inducted our newest member Jacob White, who’s sponsored by Tom Thomas; Tina Bishop introduced Spread the Word Nevada Director of Development Pamela Lang who spoke of LVRC’s contributions to STWN including making BWB at Beckley ES one of the highest attended, our Books &#038; Buddies program involvement and having donated $124,700 which has helped STWN reached its 5 millionth book distributed to kids; President Jim played the presentation video covering the 30th anniversary of women as members in Rotary, as prior to that RC was men-only membership; serendipitously our Club’s first lady president PP Katy Crockett was at today’s meeting and was recognized by the club for her achievement; President Jim presented Deb Granda a check for her winnings from the previous week’s drawing; Joakim Nyoni  recapped the previous night’s 25 Club social to serve community dinner at the LV Rescue Mission with 19 participants helping to serve 722 meals; Rene Gamero talked about today being the last day of our Project 150 Drop Your Drawers drive to help 6k homeless teenage Vegas high school students with new undergarments, bras, socks, toiletries and feminine hygiene products, any questions to see Rene or Niki Bates; Marie Walsh invited everyone to the last Breakfast with Books of this school year on 4/9; Kathy Mahon talked about the small but mighty group that participated in the Stop the Bleed class on 3/23; PP Randy Donald updated us on the 6/27 Debunking Party to celebrate the outgoing president; PP David Thorson covered the Wetzel Awards ceremony occurring later that afternoon; Bill Houghton discussed the  Rotary Youth Leadership Awards 3/29 – 3/31 and Joakim Nyoni, Carey Grohs, Chan Lam, Tina Bishop, Michael Williams and Bill Houghton’s involvement; PE Jackie Thornhill talked about our 4/27 Cuisine &amp; Octane annual fundraiser at Celebrity Cars benefitting STWN and our foundation, and she announced the Paul Harris Followership contribution match lasting until the end of June; The weekly drawing began.  The Ticket Winner was Steve Kwon, who received a prize of $50, and the Lawry’s Bucks Winner was David Lester; PE Jackie Thornhill introduced our program speaker Judge Susan Johnson, District 5300’s Foundation Chair, whose presentation was on the RI Foundation; President Jim presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit a veteran in need and adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for April 4, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    The Wheel for March 28, 2019

    The Wheel for March 28, 2019 Listen to Susan Johnson &#8211; State District Court Judge The Wheel Download Susan Johnson &#8211; State District Court Judge Susan Johnson initially was elected to serve as State District Court Judge, Department 22, on January 2, 2007, and thereafter, overwhelmingly re-elected twice, in 2008 and 2014, with over 82% and 75% of the vote, respectively.  She currently hears civil and construction defect matters. Judge Johnson has been a resident of the greater Las Vegas area since November 1963. She graduated from Ed. W. Clark High School in 1977 and UNLV in 1982, where she acquired her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a dual major in public accounting and investment finance.  She thereafter graduated from McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific, in 1985, and has been a member of the Nevada and California State Bars since 1985 and 1986, respectively. Judge Johnson is also admitted to practice before the United States District Court, District of Nevada (since 1985), Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals (since 1986), and United States Supreme Court (since 1989). Before assuming the bench, Judge Johnson, then an attorney of over 21 years, was A-V rated by Martindale-Hubbell, and the President/Sole Shareholder of her own law firm, whose practice included civil litigation, personal injury, security and/or premises claims, domestic or family law, wills and simple estate planning.  Her background also includes insurance and civil rights defense, and having an active trial practice. Judge Johnson also acted as an arbitrator, who has arbitrated at least 600 matters, mediator, Settlement Judge for the Nevada Supreme Court, short-trial judge for the Eighth Judicial District Court, Judge Pro Tempore for Las Vegas Justice Court, as well as Hearing Master in child support cases.  She has taught several CLE courses and spoken at various seminars/conferences during her career, including, but not limited to that dealing with arbitration, constructional defects, rules of civil procedure, professional responsibility, personal injury cases from start to finish and uninsured/underinsured motorist issues. Judge Johnson is also actively involved in the community.  She is a past president of the Howard D. McKibben Chapter of the American Inns of Court, the Rotary Club of Green Valley and Nevada Rotary Foundation, and currently serves as Foundation Chair for Rotary District 5300, as well as the Rotary Club of Green Valley.  Judge Johnson also currently holds or has held memberships/offices in various other organizations, such as the Daughters of the American Revolution, Junior League of Las Vegas, National Association of Women Business Owners and Henderson Chamber of Commerce to name a few.  She has been married to District Court Judge Eric Johnson for over thirty-two (32) years, and they have two adult daughters, Tess and Emma. When not attending her judicial duties, Judge Johnson can be found running half- and whole marathons with her husband and daughters throughout the country and internationally. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, The Rotary Foundation began as an idea proposed by Arch Klumph’s in 1917.  He suggested that Rotary should create and maintain an endowment fund dedicated to “doing good in the world.”  The Rotary Foundation began when the initial contribution of $26.50 was made by the Rotary Club of Kansas City, Missouri.  The Rotary Foundation was official named at the Rotary Convention of 1928 which was held in Minneapolis, Minnesota.  Thanks to his sharing his vision with other Rotarians, the advocacy of Arch Klumph and other leading Rotarians, and of course, the generosity that marks Rotarians worldwide, The Rotary Foundation is one of the world’s leading humanitarian foundations.  Over the Rotary Foundation’s lifetime, Rotarians have given more than $4billion dollars to the Rotary Foundation.  It has grown from the initial contribution of $26.50 to more than $1.2billion currently under management. The Rotary Foundation began as an idea proposed by Arch Klumph’s in 1917.  He suggested that Rotary should create and maintain an endowment fund dedicated to “doing good in the world.”  The Rotary Foundation began when the initial contribution of $26.50 was made by the Rotary Club of Kansas City, Missouri.  The Rotary Foundation was official named at the Rotary Convention of 1928 which was held in Minneapolis, Minnesota.  Thanks to his sharing his vision with other Rotarians, the advocacy of Arch Klumph and other leading Rotarians, and of course, the generosity that marks Rotarians worldwide, The Rotary Foundation is one of the world’s leading humanitarian foundations.  Over the Rotary Foundation’s lifetime, Rotarians have given more than $4billion dollars to the Rotary Foundation.  It has grown from the initial contribution of $26.50 to more than $1.2billion currently under management.  In 1930, the Foundation made its first gift of $500 to the International Society for Crippled Children (“ISCC”).  ISCC was created by Rotarian Edgar F. “Daddy” Allen.  Today we know ISCC as Easter Seals.  In 1947 when Rotary founder Paul Harris died, contributions began pouring in to Rotary International, and the Paul Harris Memorial Fund was created to build the Foundation.  The Every Rotarian Every Year initiative asks all Rotarians to support the Rotary Foundation every year.  The Las Vegas Rotary Club makes the same ask of each of its members.  Historically we are one of the strongest clubs in District 5300 when it comes to supporting the Rotary Foundation.  While we have a good per capita donation rate, we do not have a 100% member support rate.  I am hopeful that in President Elect Jackie Thornhills year, and thereafter we can report to District 5300 and RI that 100% of our club members support the Rotary Foundation. Due to the generous support of Rotarians like you, Arch Klumph’s idea to create a fund For “doing good in the world” has grown from $26.50 into a global force.  With everybody’s help the Rotary Foundation will continue to grow and do good in the world. We support the Rotary Foundation In addition to contributing to the Annual Fund on a regular basis, members are encouraged to get involved in a Foundation project or program.The Rotary Foundation It has one of the largest and most prestigious international fellowship programs in the world Jim Kohl 95th President Rotary Club of Las Vegas &nbsp; Member Highlights Toni Kern was joined by her husband Jerry for lunch. Sergeant at Arms Carey Grohs and PP Jim Hunt announced the success of the Cigar Fellowship on St. Patty’s Day. Rene Gamero talked about our Project 150 DYD clothing drive. President Elect Jackie Thornhill announced the success in having case members of Counting Cars attend our fundraiser at Celebrity Cars. PP Steve Linder led of the meeting with a Navy, Aviation and Marine invocation. Our Paul Harris Fellow recipients were Chan Lam initial PHF, Gwen Hall +3, Toni Kern +2, Francesca Gilbert +6, Lamar Marchese +4 and Jason Buckley initial PHF. Bill Houghton announced that our club is sponsoring 12 amazing young people to the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards program on 3/29-3/31. At President Jim’s head table were LtoR PP Ginger Anderson, Dr. Niki Bates and our speaker Robin Smith the Chair of SuperBuild. Arleen Sirois did a pause and smile before leading “God Bless America”. Annee Nounna is back at the club and was joined by her granddaughter for lunch. Scribe &#8211; March 21, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  March 21, 2019 President Jim called the meeting to order.  PP Steve Linder gave the invocation. Arleen Sirois led the club in singing God Bless America, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.  The Sergeant at Arms was Carey Grohs: President Jim encouraged members to share the live stream of our meeting on social media to share our message and our Club with others; There were (1) International Rotarians, (1) visiting Rotarians and (4) Guests of Rotarians introduced; Annee Nounna is back at the Club, and she thanked all well-wishers for their sympathy cards and messages; President Jim’s announcements: we have club business cards to invite prospective members to our meeting; try to keep the Green Book circulating during the meeting so all members have a chance to sign up; please submit People of Action photos to President Jim, Francesca Gilbert orAdam Hommey; if you have registered for the International Convention and have not e-mailed President Jim yet, please do so; the District Conference is 5/3-5/4 in Anaheim; the next Corazon SuperBuild is 5/18; PE Jackie Thornhill announced Paul Harris Fellowship contributors Jason Buckley and Chan Lam (both initial level), Toni Kern Paul Harris+2, Gwen Hall Paul Harris+3, Lamar Marchese Paul Harris+3 and Francesca Gilbert Paul Harris+6; PP Jim Hunt recapped the 3/15 Wine Tasting and Cigar Fellowship St. Patty’s Day celebration in collaboration with the Family of Rotary, attended by over 75 people, with special thanks to those who brought raffle prizes, wine and pot lucks, to Pete and Pam Samoulis, PP Karen and Tom Whisenhunt, and PP Tom Krob’s help who also donated a keg of Alaskan Amber beer; the event collected 30 cigars and raised almost $1,500, which brings to-date a total of almost $17k raised at Cigar Fellowships in conjunction with the Family of Rotary; PP David Thorson covered using the 30 collected cigars for an April cigar social at the USO with Nellis Air Force Base command teams, and he discussed the Wetzel Awards on 3/28; Marie Walsh invited everyone to the upcoming 4/9 Breakfast with Books to help the beautiful children; Rene Gamero talked about our Project 150 Drop Your Drawers drive to help 6k homeless teenage Vegas high school students, and that 3/28 is the last day to bring to the meeting new undergarments, bras, socks, toiletries and feminine hygiene products for this drive, any questions to see Rene or Niki Bates; Kathy Mahon talked about the Stop the Bleed class 1 pm – 2 pm 3/23 at the University Medical Center; PE Jackie Thornhill announced her and Rosalee Hedrick’s success in meeting with Count’s Kustoms of the reality show Counting Cars and having about 5 of their members appear at our 4/27 Cuisine &amp; Octane annual fundraiser at Celebrity Cars; Joakim Nyoni discussed the 25 Club socials to serve community dinner at the LV Rescue Mission on 3/27 4 pm – 6:15 pm, and on 4/18 6 pm – 8:30 pm for $39/person at Pinot’s Pallete in Town Square; President Jim then fined Joakim Nyoni regarding his photos in The Wheel showing the 25 Club donations of $300 to Three Square Food Bank which provides 900 meals, and $300 to Project 150 which provides a dozen family meal kits, to support those in need; Bill Houghton discussed our sponsored 12 amazing young people joining 388 other students going to the  Rotary Youth Leadership Awards 3/29 – 3/31, and whereas District 5300 appealed for our Club to bring 2 facilitators, we stepped up with Joakim Nyoni, Carey Grohs, Chan Lam, Tina Bishop, Michael Williams and Bill Houghton attending, and he thanked Kirk Alexander in being instrumental in coordinating things; President Jim called on Dan Adamson to explain going helicopter skiing last Saturday to check it off his bucket list, then fined him; Rosalee Hedrick and Janet Linder inducted our newest member Paul Kellogg III, who’s sponsored by PP Karen Whisenhunt; The weekly drawing began at $6,793 plus this week’s donations.  The Ticket Winner was Kim Snyder who drew the winning card and won the jackpot, which she’s splitting with her tickets-buying-partner Deb Granda who brought Kim as her guest to the meeting; and the Lawry’s Bucks Winner was Shawn Noorda; Francesca Gilbert introduced our program speaker Robin Smith, Chair SuperBuild, to share with us the whys and hows of one of the most participated International Events that District 5300 participates in SuperBuild. President Jim presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit a veteran in need and adjourned the meeting. The post The Wheel for March 28, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    The Wheel For March 21, 2019

    The Wheel For March 21, 2019 Listen to Robin Smith &#8211; SuperBuild The Wheel Download Robin Smith &#8211; SuperBuild Robin Smith became a Rotarian in 2010 after 16 years of persistence on behalf of Linda Bertuzzi. During her time as a Rotarian of the Downtown Las Vegas club, Robin served as Club President 2013-2014. During her time as President and due to her passion of SuperBuild, Robin spoke to 14 of the 17 clubs of Southern Nevada in order to help secure a record year for raising funds for the upcoming Build. It was then that Robin was asked to co-chair with Mark Barragan in 2014-2015 and then Chair Superbuild 2015-2016. After taking a break, Robin decided that she wanted to again lead the fund raising for one of her favorite activities so she is again the Chair for this year under Governor John Chase.  In her spare time, Robin leads a Real Estate team and has just celebrated 30 years in the business and ending 2018, number 25 in the City. Robin is here today to share with us the whys and hows of one of the most participated International Events that District 5300 participates in……Superbuild. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, Rotary’s six areas of focus span vast needs, ranging from disease prevention, lack of access to clean water and education to helping build communities.  By participating in service projects that are designed to fall under one of Rotary’s six areas of service, Rotary clubs serve the unique concerns and needs of communities around the world.  On May 18, 2019 we will have the opportunity to join other Rotarians from District 5300 and participate in the Corazon Superbuild in Tecate, Mexico. Two years ago, I was lucky enough to participate in a Corazon building project with my wife, Judith and our two teenage sons Jack and Kyle.  After we signed up to participate, I proactively bought three new hammers so that everybody would be able to participate.  When we all got busy swinging our hammers, we quickly found out that I bought the wrong tool for the job.  President’s tip: when you go, the hammer you have at home is not the hammer you should bring to Superbuild; bring a framing-hammer which is significantly heavier and designed to drive nails into 2x4s.  My family and I still laugh at how inadequate our hammers were for the job and how long it took us to hammer in nails that day.  But more importantly, we remember a great day of service, getting to know club members better and meeting other Rotarians from District 5300. I won’t forget looking at the house we built as the sun began to set.  I have to admit that I felt a bit prideful about our accomplishment.  I also experienced a joyful Rotary Moment for being part of a team that provided a worthy family with a roof over their heads.  I encourage all of you to participate in a Corazon build, it is a treasured facet of the jewel of Rotary. Jim Kohl 95th President Rotary Club of Las Vegas Member Highlights Twenty Five Club Secretary announced the upcoming club meeting at Pinot’s Pallete in Town Center. The Dan Stover winners were announced by PP Brock. They posed with a group shot with the Judges. Sidra Kain led us in song with the Star Spangled Banner. President Elect Jackie Thornhill stood in for missing President Jim Kohl. Great Job Jackie! PP Michael Gordon discussed the debunking committee meeting for President Jim Kohl. PP Brock Fraser announced the beginning of our Dan Stover Speech Contest and introduced the contestants. PE Jackie presented Kathy Mahon with her Major Donor Level 1 award. New Member Niki Bates announced our Project 150 Drive for garments for underprivileged high school students. Leprechaun Jim Hunt brought us up to date on his Saint Patty’s Day Party. Joakim Nyoni discussed the upcoming 25 Club event at the Las Vegas Rescue Mission. Janice Lencke won the Lawry Bucks. Bob Werner missed the pot and the $6,424 elusive joker prize winner moves on. Bill Houghton announced the need for professionals to share their business acumen with students from Advanced Technology Students on Career Day on Apr, 9th. At PE Jackie’s head table was our Wheel Printer Bill Houghton, Brock Fraser and returning member Kathy Mahon. Andy Kuniyuki presented the invocation. Acting Sergeant At Arms Toni Kern was urging members to make sure that they has a meal card. The Dan Stover winners were announced by PP Brock. They posed with a group shot with the Judges. PP Brock Fraser announced the beginning of our Dan Stover Speech Contest and introduced the contestants. Scribe &#8211; March 14, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  March 14, 2019 PE Jackie Thornhill, filling in for President Jim, called the meeting to order.  Andy Kuniyuki gave the invocation. Sidra Kain led the club in singing The Star-Spangled Banner, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.  The Sergeant at Arms was Toni Kern: There were (0) International Rotarians, (0) visiting Rotarians and (4) Guests of Rotarians introduced; PE Jackie Thornhill announcements: we have club business cards to invite prospective members to our meeting; if you have registered for the International Convention and have not e-mailed President Jim Kathy Mahon has achieved Major Donor Level 1 status; Principal Katie Decker discussed the super successful Reading Week held 2/25 – 2/28 with students reading over 1,000 books with the help of the LVRC, and the upcoming Beckley ES Garage Sale 3/30; Marie Walsh talked about our successful 3/12 BWB at Beckley ES attended by 93 children and 61 adults totaling 154 people, with 53 reading logs submitted accounting for 530 books read by the children in one month, and she invited members to the last BWB of this school year on 4/9; Niki Bates announced our Project 150 Drop Your Drawers drive in which she and Rene Gamero are collecting at our meetings 3/21 and 3/28 new undergarments, bras, socks, toiletries and feminine hygiene products for homeless high school kids; Bill Houghton said Advanced Technologies Academy is looking for business professionals and entrepreneurs to share info about their profession with students on Career day 4/9; PP Michael Gordon discussed the committee on the President Jim Debunking Party 6/27 at Angel Park in Summerlin;Toni Kern announced progress on the 4/27 Cuisine &amp; Octane ticket sales and ordering a new batch of 100 tickets to sell; Joakim Nyoni discussed the 25 Club event to serve community dinner at the LV Rescue Mission 3/27 4 pm – 6:15 pm, and Smith’s Supermarkets Rewards Card membership sign-up to raise funds for LVRC; PP David Thorson covered the next Wetzel Awards on 3/28; Bill Houghton discussed the 12 students, in 10th and 11th grades, the Club is sponsoring to attend the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards 3/29 – 3/31;Kathy Mahon talked about the Stop the Bleed class 1 pm – 2 pm 3/23 at the University Medical Center; Carey Grohs PP Jim Hunt covered the 3/15 Wine Tasting and Cigar Fellowship St. Patty’s Day celebration in collaboration with the Family of Rotary with approx. 50 people expected to attend; The weekly drawing began at $6,426 plus this week’s donations.  The Ticket Winner was Bob Werner, who received a prize of $10, and the Lawry’s Bucks Winner was Janice Lencke; PP Brock Fraser MC’d our Club’s Dan Stover Music Competition with competitors Eliana Pacheco (fourth place winner), Eli Wilson(third place), Shelbie Silvers (second place) and Jesse Gressmen (first place); PE Jackie Thornhill adjourned the meeting. The post The Wheel For March 21, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    Kevin Janison – KSNV Meteorologist

    The Wheel for February 14, 2019 Listen to Kevin Janison &#8211; KSNV Meteorologist The Wheel Download Kevin Janison &#8211; KSNV Meteorologist Kevin is both a Children’s author and an award-winning Meteorologist. In June 2017, Kevin received his sixth Emmy award from the Southwest Region of the National Association of Television Arts and Sciences. It was his 14th nomination for his on-air work. He has won a “Best Weathercast” award from the Associated Press, “Best On-Air Personality” and seven “Best Weathercaster” awards from Las Vegas’ Electronic Media Awards, plus several mentions in the Review Journal’s “Best of Las Vegas” annual edition. In May 2007, his children’s book, “Deputy Dorkface; How Stinkville Got Cleaned Up” was first published. The book is based on a bedtime story Kevin told his children about a town where nobody takes a bath. The series now includes many award-winning books and “The Deputy Dorkface series” has been named among the best in family friendly media,” …from Mom’s Choice Awards. Each year, Kevin, visits nearly 100 schools sharing his stories, the importance of reading, and taking the students on an interactive journey through the publishing process. On the weather side, Kevin has been responsible for building the Neighborhood Weather Network, which placed weather stations, cameras and provided curriculum in meteorology in over 100 schools throughout the region. An avid tennis enthusiast, Kevin is often found on local courts. And… to add a little excitement, looks forward to that week each Spring traveling to the Plains to chase tornadoes. Kevin is married to Terri, who is the CEO for the Grant a Gift Autism Foundation, and has a daughter, Taylor, and son, Colin. Kevin Janison is a native of Los Angeles where he attended Fairfax High School, then California State University, Northridge. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, Happy St. Valentine’s Day and welcome to all the spouses, boyfriends and girlfriends!  We thank you for sharing the love of your life with us each week at Rotary.   We celebrate Valentine’s Day in memory of Saint Valentine of Rome.  Historians believe that St. Valentine was martyred on February 14, 269. St. Valentine is believed to be the former Bishop of Terni, Narnia, and Amelia.  St. Valentine was arrested for converting people to Christianity and for marrying them.  St. Valentine was sent to Rome under the emperor Claudius Gothicus (Claudius II).  Claudius II had forbidden marriages because he believed that he was having trouble raising armies due to the men’s attachment to their wives and children.    While in Rome, St. Valentine attempted to convince Claudius that Christianity was a valid religion. Claudius II rejected St. Valentine’s overtures and instead sentenced St. Valentine to renounce his faith or be beaten with clubs and beheaded.  St. Valentine refused to renounce Christianity.  The sentence was carried out on February 14, 269, although there is some disagreement on the year of his martyrdom.  Legend has it that while in jail, St. Valentine left a farewell note for the jailer’s daughter, who had become his friend, and signed it “From Your Valentine.”  Legends vary on how the martyr’s name became connected with romance.   What is known is that St. Valentine was martyred on February 14 and that in 496 Pope Gelasius marked February 14th as a day of celebration in honor of his martyrdom.  Valentine’s Day has grown into a date for exchanging love messages, poems and simple gifts such as flowers.  If you are lucky enough to have your loved one with you today, give them a hug and a kiss. Jim Kohl95th PresidentRotary Club of Las Vegas &nbsp; Member Highlights President Jim presented our speaker Ron Kaiser of Nevada Ballet with our “Share What You Can Award” PP Jim Tucker was presented by Cindy Fox with 2 VIP winning tickets to the upcoming “Firebird!” Ballet at the Smith Center. PP Jim Hunt promoted the upcoming Cigar Fellowship at his home on Mar. 15, for an early St Patty’s Day. Get your green beer there. PP David Thorson reminded us of the upcoming Wetzel Awards on Feb. 28. Melanie Muldowney won the Lawry Bucks. Marie Walsh updated us on the upcoming Breakfast with Books. Joakim Nyoni discussed the upcoming 25 Club Happy Hour. Jaimee Goldsmith started the meeting with an Invocation. Gina Gentleman missed the Joker but was rewarded with a Million Dollar Rotary note and a $10 bill. Captain Kirk was joined for lunch by his Mother. Love ya Mom. Bob Werner exchanged banners with Rotarians from Hendon, England. Bill Stieren presented a grant for $988 to Trista Miller and Michael Elliot of the Al-Maun organization for their chess program for youth. Bill Houghton brought us up to date on available spots for RYLA and the need for facilitators. At President Jim’s head table was our speaker Roy Kaiser and Cindy Fox of the Nevada Ballet. At our monthly birthday table were Steve Casey, Pete Samoulis, Bob Werner and Walt Rulffes. At our monthly birthday table were Steve Casey, Pete Samoulis, Bob Werner and Walt Rulffes. Jaime Goldsmith led us in song with “God Bless America”. Scribe &#8211; February 7, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: February 7, 2019 President Jim Kohl called the meeting to order. Jaime Goldsmith gave the invocation. Arleen Sirois led the club in singing God Bless America, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The Sergeant at Arms was Toni Kern: President Jim encouraged members to share the live stream of our meeting on social media to share our message and our Club with others; There were (2) International Rotarians, (1) visiting Rotarians and (3) Guests of Rotarians introduced; There was a banner exchange with the members from the RC of Hendon in London, U.K.; At the Birthday Table announcing their birthdays for this month: Stephen Kasbeer, Peter Samuolis, Robert Werner and Walt Rulffes; Sidra Kain led us in singing Happy Birthday; President Jim fined Kirk Alexander, Ted McAdam, Francesca Gilbert and Paul Maffey for sitting at the Birthday Table; President Jim announcements: contact PE Jackie Thornhill for the the match of up to 50% for the Paul Harris fellowship; the Polio Pig last month raised $654.89 and with the 2-for-1 Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation match of $1,309.78 raised a total of $1,964.67 which at a cost of $.13/vaccine paid for 15,112 vaccines; the District Gala is on 3/16 at the World Market Center; the District Conference is on 5/3-5/4 in Anaheim; Super Build is on 5/18; William Stieren presented a $988 grant to Trista Miller and Michael Elliott of the Al-Maun (Arabic for “Neighborly Needs”) organization for their chess program for youth; PP Jim Tucker announced the winners of the Super Bowl “Fill the Board” which raised $2,500 for our foundation; David Thorson talked about the upcoming Wetzel Awards on 2/28; Joakim Nyoni discussed the 25 Club Happy Hour with the Las Vegas Aviators at their new ballpark on 2/27; PP James Hunt covered the 3/15 Wine Tasting and Cigar Fellowship St. Patty’s Day celebration in collaboration with the Family of Rotary; Janice Lencke highlighted our 4/27 Cuisine &amp; Octane fundraiser and the raffle for tickets purchased by 3/31; Bill Houghton discussed the available spots for 10th and 11th graders teen leadership training RYLA 3/29 – 3/31 and the District 5300 looking for facilitators; Marie Walsh updated us on Beckley Elementary School’s Career Day 2/8, Breakfast with Books 2/12, and Reading Week 2/25 – 2/28; Rosalee Hedrick covered orientation for new members on 2/7; The weekly drawing began at $5,414 plus this week’s donations. The Ticket Winner was Gina Gentleman, who received a prize of $10, and the Lawry’s Bucks Winner was Melanie Muldowney; Cindy Fox introduced our program speaker Roy Kaiser, Artistic Director of the Las Vegas-based Nevada Ballet Theatre; President Jim presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit a veteran in need and adjourned the meeting. The post The Wheel for February 14, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    The Wheel for February 7, 2019

    The Wheel for February 7, 2019 Listen to Roy Kaiser &#8211; Artistic Director Nevada Ballet Theatre The Wheel Download Roy Kaiser &#8211; Artistic Director Nevada Ballet Theatre Roy Kaiser began tap dancing at age four and started his professional dance career by age seven. Together with his four brothers, he performed on television and across the United States, including the 1967 World’s Fair in New York. He began his ballet training at age 17 under the guidance of Karen Irvin and earned a scholarship to the San Francisco Ballet School and later with the School of Pennsylvania Ballet. Roy joined Pennsylvania Ballet in 1979. He was eventually promoted to Soloist and Principal Dancer, performing nearly every principal male role in the company’s classical repertoire. He also originated roles in works by such noted choreographers as Peter Martins, Robert Weiss, Lynne Taylor-Corbett, Paul Taylor, Choo San Goh, and Christopher d’Amboise. In 1987, while still performing, Roy was appointed Assistant Ballet Master. Upon his retirement from the stage in 1992, he was promoted to the position of Ballet Master. In October 1993, he was appointed Associate Artistic Director of the company under the leadership of Christopher d’Amboise and later succeeded him as Artistic Director in February 1995. Under Roy’s direction, the company launched its 1994-1995 Season with a critically-acclaimed appearance at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., returning in 2000 as part of the Balanchine Celebration,  which featured six companies highlighting 14 Balanchine works. In August 2005, the company made its international debut under Roy with its 40th anniversary commission of Christopher Wheeldon’s Swan Lake at the Edinburgh International Festival. The company also performed at the Sinatra Festival in Portugal and the Meadows Award Ceremony honoring Paul Taylor at Southern Methodist University. And in November 2007, the company enjoyed its return to New York City Center for its first exclusive engagement in 22 years. In June 2008, the company was invited back to the Kennedy Center for Ballet Across America, performing alongside nine other companies from across the nation to showcase the depth and history American ballet. Roy returned to Kennedy Center once again in November 2009 with Pennsylvania Ballet’s critically acclaimed production of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker®, presenting Balanchine’s version of the beloved ballet for the first time ever in Washington, DC. The company debuted that same production internationally in 2011 with a tour to the National Arts Centre in Ottawa, Canada. And in 2014, they performed for the first time at the prestigious Vail International Dance Festival. In April 2014, after 19 years, Roy announced he would step down from his position as Artistic Director of Pennsylvania Ballet. Over the course of his time at the Company, he successfully enhanced the repertoire with 90 new ballets and 35 world-premiere works. He currently holds the title of Artistic Director Emeritus. In the fall of 2017, Roy was appointed Artistic Director of the Las Vegas-based Nevada Ballet Theatre following a national search; making him the fourth artistic leader in the Company’s history. An active member of the dance community, Roy is often invited as a guest instructor and has served on numerous dance panels, including the National Endowment for the Arts and the Princess Grace Foundation.  He also served on the 2002 jury of the International Ballet Competition in Varna, Bulgaria and was a member of the artistic committee for the New York Choreographic Institute. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, Peace and conflict resolution is one of Rotary’s six areas of focus.  In the Rotary Calendar, February is Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution Month.  Rotarians around the world have and will continue to support service projects and peace fellowships to help to reduce and eliminate the root causes of conflict: poverty, inequality, ethnic tension, lack of access to education, and unequal distribution of resources.   Peace and conflict resolution is one of Rotary’s six areas of focus.  In the Rotary Calendar, February is Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution Month.  Rotarians around the world have and will continue to support service projects and peace fellowships to help to reduce and eliminate the root causes of conflict: poverty, inequality, ethnic tension, lack of access to education, and unequal distribution of resources.   While we generally think of conflict as something that occurs between two or more political entities, the most common form of conflict is domestic violence.  According to the WHO, domestic violence affects roughly 30 percent of women worldwide.  As many as 38 percent of the murders of women are committed by an intimate partner.  Men are also abused by their partners as are the children of abusive parents and relatives. Rotary Clubs in Australia are changing attitudes about domestic violence and generating a positive community response with a multifaceted approach which grew into the Support, Advice, Facilitation, and Early Intervention (“SAFE”) program.  The clubs started the initiative to educate the public about the domestic violence as a social media campaign with the hashtag #SayNO2familyviolence.  Their efforts grew to include community educational programs and publicity events that have reached millions.  One of the programs they helped launched was the Men’s Behaviour [sic] Change Program (“MBCP”).  MBCP is a 13-week live, online interactive program for men who can’t — or won’t — attend counseling sessions in person, because of work schedules or embarrassment.   “We once decided we would end polio when it seemed impossible. Why can’t Rotary put an end to domestic violence?”  Garry Higgins, Rotary Club of Maryborough, Victoria, Australia.  Well said, Mr. Higgins.  Our quest to end conflict worldwide includes our, and our neighbor’s homes.  To achieve our goal we will address the most personal form of conflict, domestic violence. Jim Kohl95th PresidentRotary Club of Las Vegas Member Highlights Arleen Sirois was lucky drawing the opportunity for a joker and winning the Lawry’s Bucks. The feeding of the pig otherwise known as the Swiner continues. The feeding of the pig otherwise known as the Swiner continues. The feeding of the pig otherwise known as the Swiner continues. The feeding of the pig otherwise known as the Swiner continues. The feeding of the pig otherwise known as the Swiner continues. The feeding of the pig otherwise known as the Swiner continues. Say hello to Lamar Marchese back from Florida for the winter. Randy Campanale wanted to explain his mob connections when our trip to the Mob Museum was announced. President Jim presents our “Share What You Can” award to our speaker from Nevada State College. PP Tom Krob announced the cigar fellowship meeting at PP Jim Hunts home. GEE who is Jim rooting for in the Super Bowl. Jimmelle Siarot and our Sargent At Arms Kim Nyoni discussed the need for signing up Teens and Facilitators for RYLA. Francesca Gilbert opened the meeting with an invocation. Carey Grohs led us in song. Brock Fraser exchanged flags with our visitors from Germany. At President Jim’s head table were Andy Kuniyuki, Anthony Ruiz and his Assistant. Arleen Sirois was lucky drawing the opportunity for a joker and winning the Lawry’s Bucks. PP Tom Krob announced the cigar fellowship meeting at PP Jim Hunts home. GEE who is Jim rooting for in the Super Bowl. Scribe &#8211; January 31, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: January 31, 2019 President Jim Kohl called the meeting to order. Francesca Gilbert gave the invocation. Carey Grohs led the club in singing God Bless America, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The Sergeant at Arms was Joakim Nyoni: President Jim encouraged members to share the live stream of our meeting on social media to share our message and our Club with others; There were (2) International Rotarians, (0) visiting Rotarians and (10) Guests of Rotarians introduced; There was a banner exchange with the members from the RC of Braunschweig-Richmond in Germany; President Jim played the presentation video “ThisClose” on Rotary’s efforts in completely eradicating polio cases worldwide; PP Jim Tucker covered our annual Super Bowl pick, having sold out our “Fill the Board” which raised $2,500 for our foundation; PP Randall Campanale updated us on funds in the Rotary International Foundation and the LVRC Foundation, and our upcoming 100th club anniversary in 5 years; President Jim announced the District Foundation Gala 3/16 and the Super Build of homes in Mexico on 5/18; PE Jackie Thornhill announced our new partnership with Spread the Word Nevada for the 4/27 Cuisine &amp; Octane fundraiser, and reminded us of the match of up to 50% for the Paul Harris fellowship; Jimmelle Siarot discussed signing up teen participants and facilitators for the teen leadership training RYLA 3/29 – 3/31; PP Thomas Krob talked about the 3/15 Wine Tasting and Cigar Fellowship St. Patty’s Day celebration at the home of PP Jim Hunt; The weekly drawing began at $5,195 plus this week’s donations. The Ticket Winner was Arleen Sirois, who received a prize of $10 and she was also the Lawry’s Bucks Winner; Andy Kuniyuki introduced our program speaker Anthony Ruiz, senior advisor of Government Relations and Community Affairs for Nevada State College; President Jim presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit a veteran in need and adjourned the meeting. The post The Wheel for February 7, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    The Wheel for January 31, 2019

    The Wheel for January 31, 2019 Listen to Anthony Ruiz &#8211; NevadaState College The Wheel Download Anthony Ruiz &#8211; NevadaState College A Las Vegas native, Anthony Ruiz is the senior advisor of Government Relations and Community Affairs for Nevada State College. Ruiz is responsible for working with local, state and federal government officials and their staffs to successfully execute the College’s mission and Board of Regent approved initiatives. He is also responsible for helping build productive relationships within the business community and with other key local and state stakeholders to help ensure the strategic initiatives of the College are achieved. Before joining Nevada State College in 2018, Ruiz worked at the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance (LVGEA) where he held the role of senior director of communications and public affairs. There he managed marketing, public relations and government affairs initiatives while building strategic partnerships to further the LVGEA’s mission of growing and diversifying the regional economy of southern Nevada. Ruiz currently serves as founding board member and secretary of the Nevada Economic Development Association (NEDA). He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in rhetoric and media studies and political science from Lewis &amp; Clark College in Portland, Oregon, where he currently serves as a member of the College’s board of alumni. Ruiz is also a graduate of the Economic Development Institute at the University of Oklahoma and Desert Pines High School in Las Vegas. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, In the last three weeks, we learned about the poliovirus and Rotary International’s (“RI”) efforts to eradicate it. Today I would like to discuss what remains to be done. For RI’s mission to be successful, we have to stop the transmission of wild poliovirus in the 3 remaining polio-endemic countries: Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Pakistan. We also have to stop transmission of polio from those countries to the rest of the world. To accomplish this, RI must keep other countries polio free until we eradicate it in Afghanistan, Nigeria and Pakistan. As we learned from the first January video about polio, most people who contract polio are unaware that they have it. Polio can arise anew in parts of the world that are polio free from a traveler who did not know they were infected. Polio is merely plane ride away from any country in the world. RI will continue to operate and rely on the polio surveillance program and the existing laboratory network to stop outbreaks caused by travelers. Additionally, RI will continue to operate its vaccination programs for children in high-risk countries to protect against traveler transmitted polio. We need to vaccinate them to make sure their countries remain polio free. We can&#8217;t stop until we can ensure that all children are protected against polio. Polio eradication will be one of history’s greatest public health achievements. Polio will follow smallpox to become only the second human disease eliminated from the world. Every dollar we give as a club is matched 2:1 by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Please donate to the Polio Pig as it makes its rounds through the club. Together we can and will eradicate this blight from the face of the earth. &nbsp; Jim Kohl95th PresidentRotary Club of Las Vegas Member Highlights Ted was joined by his lovely wife Diana. Ted McAdam led us in song. Sargent At Arms Arleen Sirois and Bob Werner present our visiting International Rotarian with our banner. Returning member Kathy Mahon won the Lawry Bucks. President Jim Kohl presents our speaker Terry Jicinsky VP of the LVCVA with our “Share What you Can Award”. President Jim did not miss the Pig feeding. PP Steve Casey is a lucky man to be with us after his ski accident. Get well soon Steve! PP Randy Donald enjoyed the meeting with his wife Sally. PE Jackie Thornhill gave our invocation. PE Jackie poses with a returning member Rose Falocco. Many members fed money to our Polio Pig. Many members fed money to our Polio Pig. Many members fed money to our Polio Pig. Many members fed money to our Polio Pig. Kirk Alexander our RYLA Chair discussed his RYLA experience. Kirk’s guest James Butschek missed his chance at the Joker. Jerry Sennes invited us to his post highway pickup buffet. Ed Lepere our Lawry’s host talks with LVRF President Paul Kruger. Deb Granda talked about our upcoming Cuisine and Octane fundraiser. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for January 31, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    Terry Jicinsky – LV Convention Center Expansion Project

    The Wheel for January 24, 2019 Listen to Terry Jicinsky &#8211; LV Convention Center Expansion Project The Wheel Download Terry Jicinsky &#8211; LV Convention Center Expansion Project Terry Jicinsky is senior vice president of operations for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), overseeing the Las Vegas Convention Center District (LVCCD) expansion and renovation project. The LVCCD is the largest and most important project since the 3.2 millionsquare-foot convention center was built in the 1950s. As the third largest center in North America, the LVCC has helped Las Vegas achieve the No. 1 trade show ranking in North America for 24 consecutive years. With more than 30 years of experience in the travel and tourism industry, Mr. Jicinsky’s career path has covered aspects ranging from consumer travel research, internet marketing, database marketing and hotel management. He previously served as the senior vice president of marketing for the LVCVA, stewarding the world-renowned branding campaign, “What happens Here, Stays Here TM.” Formerly, Mr. Jicinsky oversaw the day-to-day operations of the Las Vegas Convention Center. In his new role, he serves as the direct link between the Authority and the LVCCD owner’s representative. The LVCCD is critical for the continued growth of the meetings and conventions industry in Las Vegas. Before joining the LVCVA in 1992, Mr. Jicinsky’s work experience included consulting positions with the national accounting firms Laventhol &amp; Horwath and Coopers &amp; Lybrand, as well as management positions with Marriott Hotels &amp; Resorts. Mr. Jicinsky is a member of the International Association of Conference Centers (IACC), the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM) and has previously served on the board of directors for the Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI), the International Association of Convention &amp; Visitors Bureaus (IACVB), the International Travel and Tourism Research Association (TTRA) and the American Marketing Association of Las Vegas (AMA). Mr. Jicinsky was named to Hospitality Sales &amp; Marketing Association International’s “Top 25 Most Extraordinary Minds in Sales &amp; Marketing” in 2006. He holds a master’s degree in hospitality administration from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and a bachelor’s degree in hotel and restaurant management from the University of Wisconsin, Stout. He is also a certified destination management executive and a graduate of the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership program. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, In the last two weeks we learned about the poliovirus and Rotary International’s (“RI”) efforts to eradicate it. We left off last week in 2009. In 2011 RI welcomed celebrities and other major public figures into a new public awareness campaign and ambassador program called “This Close” to ending polio. Program ambassadors included Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Desmond Tutu, violinist Itzhak Perlman, co-founder of the Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation Bill Gates, Grammy Award-winning singers Angelique Kidjo and Ziggy Marley, and environmentalist Dr. Jane Goodall. During 2011 RI&#8217;s funding for polio eradication exceeded $1 billion. In 2012 India surpasses 1 year without a recorded case of polio, and is taken off the polio-endemic list. Rotary surpasses its $200 Million Challenge fundraising goal more than 5 months earlier than planned. In 2014, India passed 3 full years without a new case caused by the wild poliovirus, and the World Health Organization certifies the South-East Asia region polio-free. Three countries still have wild polio, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Nigeria. Since 2014 RI has been focused on eliminating polio from these countries and will not stop until we succeed. The eradication of polio is one of our longest standing and most significant efforts. Along with our partners, we have helped immunize more than 2.5 billion children against polio in 122 countries. We have reduced polio cases by 99.9 percent worldwide and we won&#8217;t stop until we end the disease for good. As of 16 January 2019 in Pakistan – two cases of wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) and five WPV1 positive environmental samples were detected; in Nigeria – we have received advance notification of one case of circulating vaccine derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) and two circulating VDPV2 positive environmental samples. Wild polio still exists and we need to keep working until we eradicate it. Please donate to the Polio Pig as it makes its rounds through the club this month. &nbsp; Jim Kohl 95th President Rotary Club of Las Vegas Member Highlights At Jim’s head table were PP Michael Gordon, Kirk Alexander, DG John Chase. Becca Roberts wins the Lawry Bucks. District Governor John Chase showed appreciation to Jimmelle Siarot for her participation in our Rotary Programs. Janice Lencke missed the Joker and the Pot but still displays a Smile. Joakim Nyoni presented President Jim with a banner from his homeland in Tanzania. Kirk Alexander was recognized as a Rotarian in Action by the district governor. Our Facebook an Website administrators Kirk and Becca join for lunch. President Elect Jackie Thornhill awards V.R. Kids representative R.J. Sampson with a $1,440 grant. President Jim presented $1,250 Checks to the principals of Bracken, Hollingsworth and Long elementary schools. President Jim presented $1,250 Checks to the principals of Bracken, Hollingsworth and Long elementary schools. President Jim presents our “Share What You Can” award to our DG John Chase. Sergeant at Arms Doug Grant handed the mic to Marie Walsh talked about sponsorships needed for Breakfast with Books. Sidra Kain led us in song. Stu Lipoff announced a new way to recruit members. Ted McAdam started the meeting with his invocation. Scribe &#8211; January 17, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: January 17, 2019 President Jim Kohl called the meeting to order. Ted McAdam gave the invocation. Sidra Kain led the club in singing the My Country, ‘Tis of Thee, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The Sergeant at Arms was Doug Grant: There were (0) International Rotarians, (0) visiting Rotarians and (4) Guests of Rotarians introduced; Stu Lipoff announced available “Be My Guest for Lunch” business cards to invite prospective members to a meeting; President Jim encouraged members to share the live stream of our meeting on social media to share our message and our Club with others; President Jim discussed our efforts to prevent people from being afflicted by the scourge of polio and played the presentation video that included clips of UNICEF and WHO spokespeople talking about Rotary’s contribution to eradicate polio; President Jim presented Assistant Principal Mia Nelson with grants of $1,250 to Walter Long Elementary School (ES), $1,250 to Hollingsworth ES and $1,250 to Walter Bracken ES to support their programs in reading, ordering books, healthy eating, gardening and teaching students life skills; PE Jackie Thornhill presented a $1,440 grant to R.J. Sampson of V.R. Kids which provides therapeutic virtual reality and teddy bears to kids in four hospitals and is expanding programs to other states; PE Jackie Thornhill awarded Paul Harris Fellow +5 to Glenn Meier; President Jim presented District Governor John Chase with a gift bag and a Lamborghini in a box; PP Karen Whisenhut announced invitations of spouses to the Family of Rotary luncheon on 2/8, that we need one more host family for 2 or 3 boys from the German team in the Mayors Cup 2/14-2/19, and the St. Patrick’s Day Cigar Fellowship hosted by Jim Hunt on 3/15; Jimmelle Siarot discussed the upcoming teen leadership training RYLA 3/29 – 3/31 needing facilitators; P.E. Jackie Thornhill announced available sponsorship slots for Cuisine &amp; Octane 4/27; Marie Walsh talked about our successful 1/15 BWB at Beckley ES attended by 13 Rotarians supporting 134 children, 68 adults, totaling 202 people, with 52 reading logs submitted accounting for 520 books read by the children in one month, she mentioned the upcoming Career Day on 2/8 and Reading Week 2/25 – 2/27 that anyone can sign up for; Joakim Nyoni announced the upcoming 25 Club social at the Mob Museum and Hogs &amp; Heifer dinner on 1/30, and discussed his Tanzania home visit, attending the R.C. of Dar es Salaam and the banner he received; Jim Tucker talked about the Football Pool “Fill the Board” with 36 squares still available that would bring $2,500 to our foundation; David Squier announced our Highway Cleanup 1/26 which might be the last one next to Bonnie Springs, and it’ll be followed by a delicious brunch hosted by Jerry Sennes; President Jim fined Ted McAdam for lying to us about Santa Claus being real during our last December meeting; The weekly drawing began at $4,824 plus this week’s donations; the Ticket Winner was Janice Lencke, who received a prize of $10, and the Lawry’s Bucks Winner was Becca Roberts; PP Michael Gordon introduced our program speaker District Governor John Chase; President Jim presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit a veteran in need and adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for January 24, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    John Chase – District Governor

    The Wheel for January 17, 2019 Listen to John Chase &#8211; District Governor The Wheel Download John Chase &#8211; District Governor John and his wife Elizabeth were born and raised in the Midwest prior to relocating to Las Vegas in 1990. They have two amazing children, Ashley and Meghan. John joined Rotary in 2001 as an opportunity to further serve his community. His most memorable Rotary moments are from experiences when he was able to incorporate service to others with his children. Ashley who was working on her Girl Scout Gold Award went with John to India for an NID (National Immunization Day). Meghan, while working on her Girl Scout Gold Award went with John to Xpujil, Mexico where they built water cisterns. Both trips were amazing opportunities for John and his daughters to experience Rotary on an International scale while having a meaningful impact on the lives of others. He has witnessed firsthand the importance of the Family of Rotary. John is serving as your District Governor for one simple reason….he was asked. Message From The President Dear Rotarians, Last week we learned about the polio virus. This week I would like to share some information about the first part of the history of Rotary International’s (“RI”) efforts to eradicate this scourge from the wild. In 1979 RI began its fight against polio with a multi-year project to immunize 6 million children in the Philippines. In 1985 RI launched PolioPlus, the first and largest internationally coordinated private-sector support of a public health initiative, with an initial fundraising target of $120,000,000. In 1988 RI and the World Health Organization (“WHO”) launched the Global Polio Eradication Initiative. At that time there were an estimated 350,000 cases of polio in 125 countries. Six years later, in 1994 The International Commission for the Certification of Poliomyelitis Eradication announced that polio has been eliminated from the Americas. Thereafter, RI launched the PolioPlus Partners program, enabling Rotary members in polio-free countries to provide support to fellow members in polio-affected countries for polio eradication activities. In 2000 A record 550 million children – almost 10% of the world&#8217;s population – receive the oral polio vaccine. As a result, the Western Pacific region, spanning from Australia to China, is declared polio-free. In 2003 Six countries remain polio-endemic – Afghanistan, Egypt, India, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan. In 2004 RI helped synchronize National Immunization Days in 23 countries targeting 80 million children. In 2006, the number of polio-endemic countries drops to 4 &#8211; Afghanistan, India, Nigeria, Pakistan. In 2009 RI&#8217;s overall contribution to the eradication effort nears $800 million. RI’s efforts continued after 2009 and are ongoing. We will learn about those efforts next week. Wild polio still exists and we need to keep working until we eradicate it. Please donate to the Polio Pig as it makes its rounds through the club this month. &nbsp; Jim Kohl95th PresidentRotary Club of Las Vegas Member Highlights At President Jim’s head table was PEE Richard Jost, Bill Stieren and our guest speaker Ron Fraass. Bob Werner and Rampur exchanged banners with his visiting Rotarian from the Atomic City, Richland, Washington. Bob Werner presented our international guests with our banner. Erik Astramecki told us how Luci Parodi beat his tally in the canned food drive. Glenn Meier led off our new year with his invocation. Happy January birthday to Kirk Alexander, Bill Houghton, Carolyn Sparks, Kathy Mahon, Diane Clary and Jerry Engel. Jaimee Goldsmith led us in song. Janet Linder and Rosalee Hedrick introduced our newest members Kathy Mahon, Seiko and Miyuki Miyamon. Jimmelle Siarot discussed her participation in the District 5300 joint project in Mexicali Lucky Bob Barnard wins more Lawry Bucks. Michael Williams recapped our participation at the Magical Forest. Mike Cudiamat joined with our International Exchange student for Pierre for a picture. PP Karen Whisenhunt and our Sargent At Arms Cory Grohs requested participation of the membership to help play host to the German soccer team for the Mayor’s Cup. PP Michael Gordon presented President Jim with a banner from the Israeli Rotary of Carmel that sent us funds for the people who suffered from the 2017 mass shooting. Jerry Engel led us in a Hebrew invocation. President Jim presented our speaker Ron Faass with our Share What You Can Award. Steve Kwon missed his chance at the Joker and the Pot. The Polio Pig is alive and needs feeding. It did OK last week. Tony Kern encouraged involvement in our Books &#038; Buddies program. Scribe &#8211; January 10, 2019 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: January 10, 2019 President Jim Kohl called the meeting to order. Glenn Meier gave the first invocation. Jerry Engel gave the second invocation. Jamie Goldsmith led the club in singing the National Anthem, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The Sergeant at Arms was Carey Grohs. There were (2) International Rotarians, (2) visiting Rotarians and (2) Guests of Rotarians introduced. Also, Michael Cudiamat introduced our international exchange student from France, Pierre; There were 2 banner exchanges: 1 from RC Carmel (Haifa Israel) that PP Michael Gordon received, and 1 from RC Richland (Washington) from visiting Rotarian Linda Gustafson. President Jim encouraged members to share the live stream of our meeting on social media to share our message and our Club with others; At the Birthday Table announcing their birthdays for this month: Carolyn Sparks, Kirk Alexander, Bill Houghton, Kathy Mahon, Diane Clary and Jerry Engels; Sidra Kain lead us in singing Happy Birthday; President Jim played the “Polio Surveillance” presentation video and discussed our key roles in immunizations and actively monitoring polio; Rosalee Hedrick and Janet Linder inducted our newest members: Seiko Miyamon, Miyuki Miyamon and Kathy Mahon; Marie Walsh announced the upcoming BWB on 1/15 and introduced Beckley Elementary School counselor Barbara Grogan who invited Rotarians to speak at the school’s Career Day on 2/8; PP Karen Whisenhut announced that host families are needed for the German team for the Mayors Cup 2/14-2/19; Michael Williams discussed our successful participation volunteering at Magical Forest 12/20/18; Toni Kern encouraged involvement in this season’s Book &amp; Buddies program; Jimmelle Siarot discussed her club representation at the CAM Eduardo Huet school for the dear in Mexicali in the international joint project of Rotary District 5300, 5330 and 4100; President Jim called on Erik Astramecki to report on raising almost $6,800 in the 2017 Canned Food Drive but being outdone by his fiancé Luci Parodi who raised almost $7,800 (helping us outraise Kiwanis Club for the 11th year in a row), President Jim then fined Erik $100; Janice Lencke announced some of the major sponsors for the new fundraiser 4/27 Cuisine &amp; Octane and seeking additional sponsorships; Jim Tucker discussed the $2,500 in prizes for this season’s Football Pool; The weekly drawing began at $4,613 plus this week’s donations. The Ticket Winner was Steve Kwon, who received a prize of $10, and the Lawry’s Bucks Winner was Bob Barnard. Bill Stieren introduced our program speaker Ron Fraass, Retired Director of the EPA – National Center for Radiation Field Operations, who presented on Nuclear Power and Recycling; President Jim presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit a veteran in need and adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for January 17, 2019 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    Dorian Stonebarger – Three Square, Program Director

    The Wheel for November 15, 2018 Listen to Dorian Stonebarger – Three Square, Program Director The Wheel Download Dorian Stonebarger – Three Square, Program Director Dorian Stonebarger is a graduate of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas where she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nutrition and a Master of Arts in Urban Leadership. She is currently the Program Director at Three Square Food Bank, working on developing internal leadership programs while overseeing all childhood nutrition programs that give kids access to food outside of school hours combined with nutrition education. She implemented one of Three Square’s newest school catering entities, which has become a social enterprise for the food bank. A native of Las Vegas and a lifelong advocate of proper nutrition, Dorian worked on local initiatives that improved Nevada’s food systems such as the reclamation of unopened food from Clark County School District schools, the passing of Senate Bill 503 which ensures that Nevada’s most at-risk students have access to breakfast every morning, and joined the Nevada Department of Education and other panelists in creating the current nutrition education standards for high school students.  Dorian is an active member of the Junior League of Las Vegas, a women-focused organization, serving on the Board as Vice President of League Operations. She has also served on the Grow/Feed Subcommittee of the Governor’s Council on Food Security. Message From The President On November 19, 1863 the Gettysburg Address was delivered by Abraham Lincoln. Although it was only 272 words, it was one of President Lincoln’s greatest speeches. &#8220;Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal. Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this. But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate &#8212; we can not consecrate &#8212; we can not hallow &#8212; this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us &#8212; that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion &#8212; that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain &#8212; that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom &#8212; and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth. James A. Kohl Member Highlights President Jim presented our speaker with our “Share What You Can Award”. Our colors were retired by the Palo Verde High School ROTC. Ted McAdam started the veterans day meeting by recognizing all members who had served in the military. Our colors were retired by the Palo Verde High School ROTC. Ted McAdam started the veterans day meeting by recognizing all members who had served in the military. Our colors were retired by the Palo Verde High School ROTC. Bob Werner introduced our consistent international guest Murray from Canada. Carolyn Sparks was presented her Lawry bucks by Rosalee Hedrick. Janet Lencke missed her opportunity to pull a Joker but got an Ace. Members of the Foundation Board Larry Rouse, PP Michael Gordon, and PP Randy Campanale led us through our change of the bylaws process which was approved by the club. PP Dave Thorson presented the invocation. President Jim and Stephanie Buntin of Howard and Howard presented a check for $5,000 to Jim Sohre the General Director of Opera Las Vegas. Scribe &#8211; November 8, 2018 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: November 8, 2018 President Jim Kohl called the meeting to order following the posting of colors by the Palo Verde High School ROTC Honor Guard in celebration of the 100th Anniversary of Armistice (Veteran’s) Day. PP David Thorson gave the invocation. Arlene Sirois led the club in singing Our National Anthem, followed by leading us in the Pledge of Allegiance. The Sergeant at Arms was Tina Bishop. There were (1) International Rotarians, (0) visiting Rotarians and (3) Guests of Rotarians introduced including sales and marketing team members, and others of the LV Aces. President Jim encouraged members to share the live stream of our meeting on social media to share our message and our Club with others; Randy Capanale, Larry Rouse and PP Michael Gordon discussed revisions to the LVRF By-Laws concerning the selection process of Board members, election vs application process, which was unanimously passed, noting no other substantive changes were made; President Jim presented a check for $5,000 to Opera Las Vegas on behalf of the LVRC and Howard &amp; Howard to Jim Sohre, General Director of Opera Las Vegas and Stephanie Buntin of Howard &amp; Howard; PP Michael Gordon was selected for Assistant Governor for Area 14 for the 2019-20 Rotary year, assuming the AG position currently held by PP David Thorson; PP David Thorson announced 4th Quarter Wetzel Awards are scheduled for 11/29; Marie Walsh and Beckley ES Vice Principal Cheryl Trupp reminded members Breakfast With Books is 11/13; Michael Cudiamat reported the great work of the Tau Omega Mu International Project in which he was involved in the Philippines over a 5 day period, bringing significant medical care and services to those in need; Rosalee Hedrick reminded the New Member Orientation will be held 11/13; PP Jim Hunt announced the ‘race’ is on for volunteers for Santa Clothes on 12/6 and requested social media not be used to announce the project for safety concerns; Jaime Goldsmith reminded members Wine2Water at Total Wine is 11/15 and SOAR High Tea at Andres is 11/17; a reminder the Holiday Party is 12/6 at Treasure Island; Luci Parodi reminded the Canned Food Drive lunch with the Kiwanis is 11/21 and to get the cans with coins back by 11/15; and Michael Williams encouraged participation in the Magical Forest 12/20; The weekly drawing began at $3,756 plus this week’s donations. The Ticket Winner was Janice Lencke, who pulled the Ace and received a prize of $50, and the Lawry’s Bucks Winner was Rosalee Hedrick; Ted “Captain Ahab” McAdams introduced our program speaker, Col. Cavan K. Craddock, Commander. We were provided the mind-blowing extent of what happens at Nellis and Creech AFB, the groups and squadrons work and effort provided from installation support, communications, logistics, security, mission support, surveillance to training, describing Red Flag and Green Flag work, all to support ‘the mission’ of protecting the USA; President Jim presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit a veteran in need; Ted “Captain Ahab” McAdams invited the Palo Verde Color Guard to perform the Retirement of the Colors ceremony, then adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for November 15, 2018 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    Colonel Craddock - Commander 99th Air Force Wing, Nellis Air Force Base - The Complicated Organization Behind Nellis Air Force Base

    The Wheel for November 8, 2018 Listen to Colonel Craddock &#8211; Commander 99th Air Force Wing, Nellis Air Force Base &#8211; The Complicated Organization Behind Nellis Air Force Base The Wheel Download Colonel Craddock &#8211; Commander 99th Air Force Wing, Nellis Air Force Base &#8211; The Complicated Organization Behind Nellis Air Force Base Colonel Cavan K. Craddock is the Commander, 99th Air Base Wing, Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, and Installation Commander for Nellis AFB, Creech AFB and the 2.9 million-acre Nevada Test and Training Range.  He is responsible for three Groups and 15 Squadrons providing installation support for operational testing, tactics development, and advanced training in Air, Space, and Cyberspace as well as global Remotely Piloted Aircraft operations.  He is responsible for all installation support, providing communications, contracting, engineering, environmental, law enforcement, logistics, medical, security, services, supply, transportation, and mission support for more than 11,000 assigned service members and 313,000 family members, retirees and veterans. In addition, the Wing supports the U. S. Air Force Warfare Center, 53d Wing, 57th Wing, 432d Wing, 505th Command &amp;amp; Control Wing, 926th Wing, 363d Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing, the NTTR, 52 tenant units, over 250 rotary and fixed-wing aircraft plus nearly 1,500 visitors and temporary-duty personnel conducting business daily across the installation. Colonel Craddock was commissioned in 1995 as a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy. He has served in a variety of flying and staff assignments and has commanded at the flight and squadron levels. Colonel Craddock is a U.S. Air Force Weapons Instructor Course graduate and a command pilot with more than 2,300 flight hours in the F-22 and F-15C. He has flown combat missions in support of operations Northern Watch and Southern Watch. Prior to his current position, he was the Vice Commander, 15th Wing, Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam, Hawaii. Message From The President Since its inception, the United States of America has maintained a military force to defend itself. The US military is currently composed of the Air Force, the Army, the Coast Guard, the Marine Corps, and the Navy. The US military has been maintained through both conscriptions and by volunteers. The US military is currently a volunteer force consisting primarily of young people. It takes courage for a soldier to risk life and limb for his country. The vast majority complete their service and return to civilian life expecting nothing in return. On November 11 of each year, we celebrate Veterans Day. Veterans Day is often confused with Memorial Day. We celebrate Memorial Day to remember those who died during military service. Veterans Day celebrates the service of all U.S. military veterans. Veterans Day used to be called Armistice Day. The holiday was renamed Veterans Day in 1954. Armistice Day was celebrated to commemorate the end of World War I. We celebrate Veterans Day on November 11 because WW I officially ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918. In today’s climate of celebrating active military members and veterans, it is hard to believe that they were not always praised for their service. Veterans of the Viet Nam war came home to jeers, taunts, and protests. They were vilified and shunned for decades because the war was unpopular. Adding insult to injury is the fact that most of them were conscripted into the war. Whether we agree with the political reasons that send our young men and women to war, we should remember to thank those who served our country this Veterans Day and every Veterans Day to come. James A. Kohl Member Highlights PP Sharon McNair missed her opportunity of winning the pot by pulling 9 of spades and not the Joker. President Jim Kohl presents Chris Rodenfels with his ticket for a 4 hour exotic car Rental. President Jim presented our speaker Bill Laimbeer with our “Share What You Can Award”. Toni Kern announced plans to increase mentorship in spread the word Nevada. At President Jim’s head table were August Spicer, Coach Bill Laimbeer and PP Jim Hunt. Bob Barnard won something he did not need…Lucky Guy. Jaime Goldsmith led us in singing “Blowin’ in the Wind”. Jerry Engel explained how to donate to the JA Tiberti Fellowship program that already has 131 donors from our Rotary Club. Jerry Engel won the Lawry Bucks to dine with an extra $50. Mary Wilson with Spread the Word Nevada explained the need for mentor volunteers. Michael Williams led us in prayer. Our birthday table from LtoR was Russ Swain, Ed Lepere, Adam Hommey, Tina Bishop, Kazim Fathie and Tom Thomas. Our Sergeant At Arms Arleen Sirois was joined for lunch by her husband Mike. PP Jim Hunt poses with August and Aces Coach Bill Laimbeer. PP Michael Gordon and Jim Hunt present August Spicer with a Paul Harris Fellow for her participation in our Santa Clothes program. Scribe &#8211; November 1, 2018 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: November 1, 2018 President Jim Kohl called the meeting to order. Michael Williams asked for a moment of silence in light of the events of the week and gave the invocation. Jaime Goldsmith led the club in singing Blowin’ In The Wind, followed by President Jim leading us in the Pledge of Allegiance. The Sergeant at Arms was Arlene Sirois. There were (1) International Rotarians, (1) visiting Rotarians and (20) Guests of Rotarians introduced including sales and marketing team members, and others of the LV Aces. President Jim encouraged members to share the live stream of our meeting on social media to share our message and our Club with others; PP Jim Hunt presented a special and well-earned Paul Harris Fellow to former UNLV Community Relations, now with the LV Aces team, August Spicer; Paul Maffey provided a history of J A Tiberti and the Fellowship created and how more members can join the current 131 Tiberti Fellows, with Jerry Engel explaining ways to donate; Toni Kern announced renewed efforts to increase mentors for Spread The Word Nevada’s ‘Books With Buddies Program’ for 2019, with STWN representatives Mary Nelson and Jan Habura in attendance; PP Russ Swain reported a successful UNLV tailgate, with great food provided by Anil Melnick and about 25 attendees; Luci Parodi reported a great Halloween Party, thanking Anil Melnick, Deb Granda and Janice Lenke, which raised $498 for an updated total of $5,744, a bit shy from last year’s numbers, for the Canned Food Drive; the special Halloween raffle prize of a 4 hr rental of an exotic car from one of Deb Granda’s clients, Diplomat Auto, was held and raffled off at the lunch for $500 to Chris Rodenfels; Deb Granda reminded members the Holiday Party is 12/6 at Treasure Island, members free and spouse/friend $75; The weekly drawing began at $3,535 plus this week’s donations. The Ticket Winner was PP Sharon McNair, who received a prize of $10, and the Lawry’s Bucks Winner was Jerry Engel. An additional drawing for tickets to a golf tournament was donated by Rosalee Hedrick; PP Jim Hunt introduced our program speaker, Coach Bill Laimbeer, President of Basketball Operations and Head Coach of the LV Aces, who provided an interesting and informative history of how he was contacted following the MGM acquisition and transfer of the San Antonio Women’s professional basketball team to Las Vegas, and how he had to build it all from scratch, from re-doing the arena at the Mandalay Bay (including a JumboTron), securing/re-doing a training camp on the campus of UNLV, to marketing, ticket sales, TV time, and of course drafting what is the ‘youngest team in the League’, getting first pick in the next year’s draft for the 3 rd year in a row and making the whole ‘in-game’ experience just that – after all, as Coach Laimbeer said, ‘This is Las Vegas’; President Jim presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit a veteran in need and then adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for November 8, 2018 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    Coach Bill Laimbeer – President of Basketball Operations and Head Coach of the Las Vegas Aces

    The Wheel for November 1, 2018 Listen to Coach Bill Laimbeer – President of Basketball Operations and Head Coach of the Las Vegas Aces – Las Vegas Aces The Wheel Download Coach Bill Laimbeer – President of Basketball Operations and Head Coach of the Las Vegas Aces – Las Vegas Aces Bill Laimbeer, a two-time WNBA Coach of the Year, three-time WNBA Champion, and two-time NBA Champion, was named the president of basketball operations and head coach of the Las Vegas Aces on December 8, 2017. Defying all expectations, the Aces stayed in the playoff chase until the season’s last week, improving from 8 to 14 wins on the year. Laimbeer molded number one overall draft pick A’ja Wilson into the WNBA Rookie of the Year, and fifth-year guard Kayla McBride and second-year point guard Kelsey Plum enjoyed their best seasons as professionals. Las Vegas expects to make a run at the playoffs next season, and for the foreseeable future, after winning the 2019 WNBA Draft Lottery, giving them the first pick in next year’s draft for an unprecedented third year in a row. Prior to coming to Las Vegas, Laimbeer guided the New York Liberty to three straight 20-win seasons—the first time in franchise history the Liberty reached the 20-win plateau in three consecutive years. Prior to joining the Liberty, Laimbeer spent eight seasons (2002-09) as general manager and head coach of the Detroit Shock where he earned WNBA Coach of the Year honors in his first full season as head coach (2003). He took over a team that finished 9-23 the previous year and led them to a league-best 25 wins the following season. The 16-win improvement was the largest in WNBA history. Laimbeer led the Shock to a 137-93 (.596) overall record, including six-straight playoff appearances as the squad won WNBA Championships in 2003, 2006 and 2008. Prior to returning to the WNBA, Laimbeer spent two seasons as an assistant in the NBA with the Minnesota Timberwolves (2009-2011). A 14-year NBA veteran, Laimbeer was a four-time All-Star for the Detroit Pistons. As a member of the famed “Bad Boys,” Laimbeer totaled 13,790 points and 10,400 rebounds in his career, becoming only the 19th player in NBA history to eclipse 10,000 in both categories. A key member of back-to-back NBA Championships in 1989 and 1990, he had his No. 40 jersey retired by the franchise in 1995. Laimbeer played collegiately at Notre Dame from 1975-79. Message From The President One of Rotary International’s six areas of focus is to make high-quality health care available to vulnerable mothers and children so they can live longer and grow stronger. It is estimated that 5.9 million children under the age of five die each year because of malnutrition, inadequate health care, and poor sanitation — all of which can be prevented. Your donations to Rotary International provides education, immunizations, birth kits, and mobile health clinics to mothers so that they have a better chance of keeping their children alive. Rotary International volunteers teach women how to prevent mother-to-infant HIV transmission, how to breastfeed, and how to protect themselves and their children from disease. The Rotary Clubs of Registro-Ouro and Registro partnered on a Rotary Foundation global grant with two clubs in Nakatsugawa, Japan. Through the partnership, Brazilian Rotarians raised $172,500 which was used to purchase equipment for the hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU); doubling the hospital’s capacity to care for fragile newborns. The Rotary Club of Kharkiv Multinational in Ukraine sponsored Vacation 2017 Zakopane: Well-Being for Ukrainian Kids. The camp included traditional camp activities and support from mental health professionals to help children who witnessed the death of a family member cope with growing up in a war zone. The Sebastopol, California Sunrise Rotary Club sponsors telemedicine in Nigeria. Thanks to a global grant from The Rotary Foundation, a team of healthcare professionals from Nigeria has been trained in telemedicine and are treating needy patients in rural portions of the country that would otherwise not have any physicians. Through its numerous and varied projects, Rotary International helps to improve the lives of women and children around the world. James A. Kohl Member Highlights John Ingeme the most lucky ticket winner misses another chance at the Joker. New Paul Harris fellowships were presented to Brock Fraser, Paul Maffey, Larry Rouse and Steve Kwon. Joan Murdock wins the drawing for the weekly Lawry Bucks. Jaime Goldsmith led us in song with “Home Means Nevada”. Deb Granda gave us an update of the upcoming Holiday Party. Bob Werner exchanges banners with our guest from Witten, Germany. President Elect Jackie presented Brock Fraser’s special lady Becky Miracle with a PHF award. President Elect Jackie presented Brock Fraser’s special lady Becky Miracle with a PHF award. Rosalee introduced our new member Pedro Sosa. President Jim presents our speaker Steve Schmitt with our Share What You Can Award. President Jim’s head table included our speaker Steve Schmitt of Catholic Charities, Becky Miracle and Brock Fraser. President Elect Jackie Thornhill opened our meeting with a prayer. Past President Michael Gordon is recognized for his two awards for achievement in Service from UNLV. Our Sergeant At Arms was Doug Grant. Scribe &#8211; October 25, 2018 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: October 25, 2018 President Jim Kohl called the meeting to order. PE Jackie Thornhill gave the invocation. Jaime Goldsmith led the club in singing our State Song, Home Means Nevada, followed by President Jim leading us in the Pledge of Allegiance. The Sergeant at Arms was Doug Grant. There were (1) International Rotarians, (11) visiting Rotarians and (3) Guests of Rotarians introduced. President Jim encouraged members to share the live stream of our meeting on social media to share our message and our Club with others; PE Jackie Thornhill presented updated Paul Harris Fellow pins to PP Brock Fraser +6, Steve Kwon +3, Paul Maffey +4 and Larry Rouse +1; PP Brock Fraser presented an initial Paul Harris Fellow to his ‘significant other’ Becky Miracle Ted McAdam, together with Rosalee Hedrick, inducted new member Pedro Soso to the Club Deb Granda reminded members the Halloween party is 10/26 at The Distillery, with auction items, including a basket of wine and a 4 hr rental of an exotic car, as well as other great items, costume contest, and great food, with all proceeds going to the canned food drive; Jaime Goldsmith reminded members the Wine2Water event at Total Wine is coming up November 15th ; Marie Walsh reminded members Breakfast With Books on 11/13 and a new project The Little Library to be placed at Beckley, thanking Randy Donald for the 2 ‘little houses’ where books will be an exchange (give one/take one); Beckley Vice Principal Cheryl Trupp announced the success of the Harvest Festival, raising $6500, and introduced a new school coach, Daniel, a former Ambassador, sponsored by a Rotary Club in India; Deb Granda reminded members the Holiday Party is 12/6 at Treasure Island; and PP Michael Gordon was fined, modestly admitting he was recognized with two awards in Achievement In Service at UNLV The weekly drawing began at $3,364 plus this week’s donations. The Ticket Winner was John Ingeme, again, who received a prize of $10, and the Lawry’s Bucks Winner was Joan Murdock. President Jim introduced our program speaker, Steve Schmitt, Sr. VP &amp; CEO for Catholic Charities of So. Nevada. An amazing and informative video showed only some of the many ways Catholic Charities, without consideration of faith/religion, help the homeless and the less fortunate, from emergency shelters (day and night) providing a safe environment, food and showers, to the Hope Program, St. Vincent Apts, and Meals On Wheels. Mr. Schmitt explained there are more than 15 programs, including an Adoption program, and State Office of Immigration &amp; Refugee program. He explained Clark Co. and the Las Vegas area have the largest homeless population per capita, currently calculating 6500 homeless, and that Catholic Charities is the largest non-profit of social services, where the budget is $28M, with half from private donors and the other half from federal/state/local grants and that $.96 of every dollar goes into services President Jim presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit a veteran in need and then adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for November 1, 2018 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    Steve Schmitt, Senior Vice President and CEO at Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada

    The Wheel for October 25, 2018 Listen to Steve Schmitt, Senior Vice President and CEO at Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada – Catholic Charities Mission Overview The Wheel Download Steve Schmitt, Senior Vice President and CEO at Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada – Catholic Charities Mission Overview Steve Schmitt is a 3 rd generation native of Las Vegas.  His great-grandfather, Ed VonTobel, Sr., was one of the original founders of the Clark township and attended the original land auction in 1905.  Steve attended St. Anne’s Catholic School, Bishop Gorman High School (1983) and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (1989); all on Maryland Parkway!  He received his Masters at Villanova University in Pennsylvania, which is a bit further away.  Steve started his professional career as a stockbroker for Kemper Securities and, eventually, Smith Barney.  This led ultimately to a career in banking, primarily with U.S. Bank in corporate and business banking.  When the foreclosure crisis hit Las Vegas, Steve started a property preservation business to manage more than 120 properties owned by the banks.  This resulted in him eventually becoming a Broker/Property Manager and the creation of several different residential property management companies throughout the valley.  Steve has always been very involved in volunteerism, particularly in the Roman Catholic Church.  After serving on its finance committee, Steve became the Business Manager for the largest Catholic parish and school in the Diocese of Las Vegas.  He has been serving as Chief Operating Officer for Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada since February of 2018.  Catholic Charities is the largest private social services agency in the State of Nevada, serving over 100,000 vulnerable men, women and children every year since 1941. Message From The President This week we will hear from Steven Schmitt of Catholic Charities. Catholic Charities and the Las Vegas Rotary Foundation, Inc., rely on charitable gifts to operate. As we head into the holiday season we will hear again the age-old adage that it is better to give gifts than to receive them. As a child, I believed that my parents coined this phrase to make sure I got gifts for my brother and sisters. Rotarians are generally individuals who feel strongly about giving their time, treasure and/or talent to their local communities and beyond. Do we do it for others or for ourselves? The answer may surprise you. Research shows that donating to charity makes you feel better. Knowing that you are helping others is empowering and, in turn, can make you feel happier and more fulfilled. Researchers have determined that making a donation to charity increases activity in the area of the brain that registers pleasure. So it turns out the adage is true, not just something that my parents made up to make me buy gifts. Together we have the power to improve the lives of others, and we do so through our donations of time, treasure and talent. As President, it has been my joy to hear the members report back each week about completed projects that benefitted the Las Vegas Valley; and to present checks to various charities that we have selected. The canned food drive is ongoing. The Halloween Party is this weekend. Santa Clothes and Opportunity Village are just around the corner. I encourage each of you to donate and go to these upcoming events. You just might feel better about yourself. James A. Kohl Member Highlights PP Steve joined with Kristy Keller for a photo. President Jim presented our speaker Kristy Keller with our Share What You Can Award. President Jim presented Mark Brown with a check on behalf of Las Vegas Rotary and Howard and Howard. Rosalee Hedrick and Janet Linder, inducted new members Val Hatley, Rene Gamero, Barbara Billitzer, Pedro Soso , Steve Weggeland and Walt Parrish to the Club. Sergeant At Arms Corey Grohs joins with Russ Swain to announce our UNLV tailgate party. Sidra Kain joined President Jim in singing the National Anthem. PP Brock Fraser introduce International members from Thane, India and Lecce, Italy. PP Brock Fraser introduce International members from Thane, India and Lecce, Italy. At our head table was Flight for Life CEO Mark Brown, our speaker Kristy Keller and Eric Astrameki. Jaime Goldsmith led us in prayer. Jaime Goldsmith won the Lawry&#8217;s Bucks. John Ingeme missed the Joker. Katie Decker introduced 3 special teachers from her schools. Kim Nyoni gave us information about our upcoming Halloween Party. Marie Walsh paused and smiled during her breakfast with books announcement. Our favorite printer Bill Houghton (The Wheel) was joined by his editor and wife Jeni. Past President Steve Linder and Janet were recognized as being a Major Donor to Rotary International. PP Randy Donald introduced our new member Val Hatley and his wife Stephanie. Scribe &#8211; October 18, 2018 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: October 18, 2018 President Jim Kohl called the meeting to order. Jaime Goldsmith gave the invocation. Sidra Kain led the club in singing our National Anthem, followed by President Jim leading us in the Pledge of Allegiance. The Sergeant at Arms was Carey Grohs. There were (3) International Rotarians, (3) visiting Rotarians and (4) Guests of Rotarians introduced. President Jim encouraged members to share the live stream of our meeting on social media to share our message and our Club with others. A check in the amount of $4,000 was presented by President Jim to Mark Brown of Miracle Flights on behalf of the Las Vegas Rotary Club and Howard &amp; Howard. A special presentation by PE Jackie Thornhill was made to Janet and PP Steve Linder for becoming Paul Harris Major Donors, contributing $10,000 each and receiving the special Major Donor designation pin. Ted McAdam, together with Janet Linder and Rosalee Hedrick, inducted new members Val Hatley, Rene Gamero, Barbara Billitzer, Pedro Soso, Steve Weggeland and Walt Parrish to the Club. Katie Decker, Bracken ES Principal, brought 3 superstar educators and gave a special thanks to PP Tom Thomas and his brother for all their service at Hollingsworth ES and the completion of a large portion of a woven privacy fence, creating a better environment for the children. PP Russ Swain reminded members the UNLV Tailgate Party on 10/19 with parking in the Scarlett Lot, beginning at 5:00 p.m. followed by the game at 7:30 p.m.; PP Jim Hunt announced a good start to the Santa Clothes program, including backpacks and dental kits for the kids and the addition of a security presence at the event; Kim Nyoni reminded members about contributing to the canned food drive and the Halloween party scheduled for 10/26 at The Distillery, with auction, costume contest and great food; Jaime Goldsmith reported a fun Walk4Water held 10/12; Marie Walsh announced the November Breakfast With Books on 11/13. The weekly drawing began at $3,202 plus this week’s donations. The Ticket Winner was John Ingeme, who received a prize of $10, and the Lawry’s Bucks Winner was Jaime Goldsmith. PP Tom Thomas introduced our program speaker, Kristy Keller, currently with the Moonridge Group, after a rewarding and successful career with the Clark County School District, describing the work of Moonridge Group helping direct funds by donors and specifically the work of a client, Nevada Medical Center (NVC), a non-profit, dedicated to improving the quality of and access to health care in Nevada, for locals and tourists. She described NVC as a form of the synergy of experts in and out of the healthcare field. A focus of NVC is the Global Science of Play, explaining the value of play in relation to mental health and the benefits of play for all, especially children. Ms. Keller provided examples of what comes from play including resiliency, confidence, expression, and skills development. President Jim presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit a veteran in need and then adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for October 25, 2018 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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    Kristy Keller – Nevada Medical Center Global Science of Play Institute

    The Wheel for October 18, 2018 Listen to Kristy Keller – Nevada Medical Center Global Science of Play Institute The Wheel Download Kristy Keller – Nevada Medical Center Global Science of Play Institute Kristy Keller joined the Moonridge Group team in December 2016 after a rewarding and successful career with the Clark County School District. During her time with the District, she was a special education teacher, dean of students, assistant principal, and principal of both a comprehensive middle and high school. Prior to her recent retirement, she was an assistant superintendent responsible for the supervision of 23 District schools. She has a bachelor’s degree in special education and a master of science degree in educational leadership. As a public servant, Kristy conducted her work as the chief child advocate and is inspired to continue exercising her leadership and advocacy skills with the Moonridge Group team especially as it relates to the Nevada Medical Center and the Global Science of Play Institute. Moonridge Group has the good fortune to facilitate the work of the Nevada Medical Center (NMC), a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of and access to health care in Nevada. One of the areas of focus within NMC is the Global Science of Play Institute (GSPI) where she is working with the NMC Board of Directors, executive team, and key strategists to raise awareness and educate others on the overall value and benefits of play for all. Kristy has been married to her husband, Greg for over 25 years and enjoys spending time with her four-legged friends and family. Message From The President Rotary International has six overlapping areas of focus that help improve the human condition in third world countries. One of the areas of focus is improving local economies. Rotary International focuses on local economies because nearly 800 million people live on less than $1.90 a day. That is less than the cost of a cup of coffee at Starbucks. Rotary International through the Rotary Foundation strives to strengthen local entrepreneurs and community leaders, particularly women, in impoverished communities. Rotary International does this by providing training and access to well-paying jobs and financial management institutions. Rotary International selects projects that help individuals overcome obstacles to their success. Rotary projects include bringing solar lights to remote, off-the-grid homes, allowing people to work and learn at night; providing individual with microloans to allow them to become street vendors, rickshaw drivers, weavers, and tailors; and loaning entrepreneurs in rural communities money to buy livestock or plant crops, or get training in sustainable farming. The Rotary Foundation spent $9.2 million to grow local economies and reduce poverty last year. Your pledges to the Rotary International helped to make meaningful changes to lives around the world. James A. Kohl Member Highlights Bill Stieren missed the Joker by pulling a 2 of spades. Stephen Kwon won this weeks Lawry Bucks. And the drawing for our speakers book Living on a Chair. Board of Director Bill Houghton announced our upcoming TLC opportunity for local students. Bob Werner exchanged banners with our international visitor from Dover England. Randy Frost was accompanied by his wife Gayle here to listen to our speaker, their son Scott. Stephen Kwon won this weeks Lawry Bucks. And the drawing for our speakers book Living on a Chair. Bob Barnard was joined by his wife Yoko for lunch celebrating their anniversary. At the head table was Scott Allen, a director of the Latin Chamber of Commerce and Caite Scott’s assistant. Michael Williams presented the invocation. Our Sergeant At Arms Arleen Sirois and Luci Parodi reminded member of our upcoming Halloween party. President Jim presented our speaker Scott Allen with our Share What You Can Award. PP Michael Gordon was joined for lunch by his father George and Mother Ina and son Sam. PP Jim Hunt launched our program agenda for Santa Clothes 2018. PP Michael Gordon was joined for lunch by his father George and Mother Ina and son Sam. Steve Casey with the help of Sidra Kain led us in song with “God Bless America”. A smiling Deb Granda told us that our Holiday party will be held at the Treasure Island. Scribe &#8211; October 11, 2018 Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: October 11, 2018 President Jim Kohl called the meeting to order. Michael Williams gave the invocation. Steve Casey with back up assistance from Sidra Kain led the club in singing God Bless America, followed by President Jim leading us in the Pledge of Allegiance. The Sergeant at Arms was Arlene Sirois. There were (5) International Rotarians, (1) visiting Rotarians and (5) Guests of Rotarians introduced. President Jim encouraged members to share the live stream of our meeting on social media to share our message and our Club with others; PP Jim Hunt got the spirit moving for the 23rd Annual Santa Clothes scheduled for 12/6, giving the event history (11 clubs now participating, over 365 children served and more than $1M total value since inception) and an inspiring video of what the event is all about, capping it off with the announcement by Deb Granda our Holiday Party will follow that evening at Treasure Island PP Russ Swain announced the UNLV Tailgate Party is happening 10/19 with parking in the Scarlett Los on the west side, with set up at 4:00 p.m., and eating beginning at 5:00 p.m.; Luci Parodi reminded members to sign up for the Halloween Party at the Distillery on 10/26 from 6:30 -9:00 p.m., and a reminder to donate for the canned food drive; Stu Lipoff announced the upcoming Wine2Water event scheduled for 11/15 at Total Wine’s Tasting Room in Town Square, $30/PP and Jaime Goldsmith reminded members to join the Walk 4 Water run on 10/12; Marie Walsh announced the October Breakfast With Books brought 184 children and 101 adults, thanking the members who volunteered; Bill Houghton gave details concerning TLC coming up 11/30-12/1 and related detail; PP Jim Hunt announced the success of the 17th Cigar Social, earning $1128 and over $58,000 since starting the event; and The weekly drawing began at $3,041 plus this week’s donations. The Ticket Winner was Bill Stieren, who received a prize of $10, and the Lawry’s Bucks Winner was Steve Kwon. Randy Frost introduced our program speaker, his son, Scott Allen Frost, who provided an incredible presentation of life, hope, faith and determination, describing the day in 2009 when, on a whim, he went dirt bike riding with his friend, and his life as he knew it changed him and his world forever. The journey traveled by Mr. Frost was described in poignant detail, including bits of humor and determined organization, from his rescue from the accident site, to his hospitalization and rehabilitation, to his lessons learned, clearly made his audience reflect and provide inspirational insight. The 5 lessons learned, (1) nobody wants to take care of or work for ‘a jerk’; (2) be the hope; (3) that things don’t happen to you, but rather for you; (4) don’t listen to ‘they’; and (5) the two things you can control; your effort and your attitude are words to live by resonated with everyone in the room President Jim presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit a veteran in need and then adjourned the meeting. <span class="nav-previous" > &larr; Previous Week <span class="nav-next" > Following Week &rarr; The post The Wheel for October 18, 2018 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.

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Founded in 1923

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