Tuesday, July 13th, 2010 Meeting Update Conclusion of Last Year

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM. We welcomed a special guest - Jerry Scarano - to our meeting. Several spouses and other guest attended the induction ceremony luncheon. After pledging to the flag and singing "America," we recited the 4 Way Pledge. My invocation urged the members to actively support the club's new leadership team who would take office today.

    Following a special lunch, I recalled the meeting to order at 12:50. Guests and spouses were introduced and welcomed with song. Cathy Lathrop provided the weekly Foundation Thought. Bruno Giulini collected fines. I urged members to help Bruno recruit luncheon programs. I reminded the club that the District Governor will be sworn in tonight.

    Following announcements, Bruno collected good and bad news dollars. My good news dollars were given in thanks for the support my wife Robin gave to me during my presidency and for RB backing me throughout the year.

    Then we proceeded with the program. Initially I invited Cathy Lathrop to the podium to present the Annual Scarano Award. Jerry was invited to assist. Jerry announced that he was donating a $1000 to the club to continue the award.

    Then Cathy announced Lian Obrey as the winner. Lian was surprised and honored to be the Scarano Award recipient for 2010. Cathy cited her extensive efforts with the TV auction and boat raffle projects.

    Next on the agenda, I invited RB Kent to the podium. Raising his right hand, I installed RB Kent as the club president for 2010-11. RB thanked me and asked for the members support. I passed the presidential pin and gavel to RB.

    Then RB invited the officers to the podium and inducted them. The officers pins were passed at this time. Following the officers, he inducted the directors. RB then proceeded to thank the membership for their confidence in him and asked for their support during his term. RB gave the members a presidential gift to begin his term.

The meeting concluded at 1:30 PM.

Best regards,
Have a great New Rotary Year!  John Silsby 

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, July 6th, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    The meeting was called to order at 12:15 PM. We had a good turn out of members & guests. Following our pledge to the flag, we sang a flat version of "America." Then we shared the 4-Way Test with our guests. My invocation focused on Rotary's ability to make a world a better place to live.

    Following lunch, I recalled the meeting to order at 12:40 PM. After meeting and singing to our guests, Cathy Lathrop shared the weekly Rotary Foundation Thought with the membership. We celebrated Ted Colburn and RB Kent's anniversaries. Bruno Giulini was recognized for 13 weeks of perfect attendance.

    Bruno collected fines for late arrivals, missing Rotary pins, early departures and missed meetings.

    Under announcements, Bruno told the group that the first program opening was on August 31st. I reminded members that the Visioning Committee was meeting on Thursday at 5 PM at Bailey Agencies' Office.

    Next week RB Kent will be installed as president. Other board members will also be installed. I reminded members that the annual club dues are due.

    Also the July 13th the new district governor will be sworn in. I reported that Lee Vincent and I met with 3 staff members from Riverfront Children's Center to promote membership. Lian Obrey added that Susan Bailey from Riverfront will be joining the club.

    I reported that the District is seeking volunteers to help with the Amber Alert Booth at the Big E. Following today's club meeting the BOD of the club's foundation will be meeting to consider the foundation budget for the next fiscal year.

    Lian updated the membership on the Boat Raffle.

    Bruno collected Good and Bad News Dollars.

    Bruno introduced the speakers for the meeting. He gave some background on the HES Program which has helped to improve the health, education and safety of Groton City residents who live in the Branford Manor Apartments. Sherry Bassi overviewed the efforts of the Groton School system to improve the health and education on the students. Carrie Biscome shared with us many of the new programs which the management of Branford Manor have developed to create a safer and more livable environment. Bruno spoke about the positive outcome of the program in decreasing crime in the area.

    The meeting was adjourned 1:30 PM.
Have a great Rotary Week!  John Silsby 

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, June 29th, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM. Today is our Annual Scholarship Program so we had a good turn out & lots of guests. After pledging the the flag & singing "America", we shared the 4-Way Test with our guests.

    Before my invocation, we had a moment of prayer for Louise Brown, Dave Brown's wife, who is severely ill.

    My invocation focused on the honoring our high achieving students & looking forward to the day that they may become Rotarians.

    After lunch, I recalled the meeting to order. All guests were introduced except scholarship winners were introduced & we welcomed them with song!

    Cathy Lathrop presented her weekly Foundation Thought.

    Today we were in the singing mood & celebrated Cathy's birthday with a song. Then we celebrated Bruno Giulini & RB Kent's anniversaries with 2 more songs!

    Bruno collected many fines for late arrivals, missing Rotary pins, early departures & missed meetings!

    Then I read 2 thank you letters to the club. Bob Perry thanked the club for sending him an edible food basket to cheer him up. The Groton Senior Center sent Diane Thomas a letter thanking her for the club's sponsorship of the Senior Dinner Program.

    I made several announcements to the club. I encouraged members to recruit programs for club meetings. I reported that the District was seeking volunteers to help with the Amber Alert Booth at the Big E. Next week Sherry Bassi from HESS will be our presenter. On July 13th, RB will be inducted as president as well as other members of the BOD. Also on the 13th the District Governor will be inducted into office. Anyone interested in attending the induction dinner, please contact me. On July 8th, the Visioning Committee will be meeting at 5 PM. Next week the Foundation BOD will be meeting right after the club meeting to approve its budget for the next year.

    Lee Vincent & I plan to meet with prospective members at the Riverfront Children's Center right after today's meeting.

    Cathy thanked members for supporting the Relay for Life Program & reported that we raised almost $1,000 for the program to fight cancer.

    Lian Obrey updated the club on the Boat Raffle. She strongly urged members to sell tickets!

    Bruno collected good & bad news dollars!

    Than I introduced Fred Keith who chaired the club's Scholarship Program. Fred has done an outstanding job of chairing the committee for several years. This year will be his last as chair.

    Fred then presented to the membership the honored students for this year. From Fitch High School, Raysa Florentino was the honored student. From Ledyard HS, Audrey Higgins received our scholarship. This year's adult awardee was Minna DeGeano.

    I congratulated the students.

    The meeting was adjourned at 1:25 PM.

Have a great Rotary Week!  John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, June 22nd, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15. Turn out was light. I led the members in the pledge to flag & singing of "America." We shared amongst ourselves the 4-Way Test. After RB Kent updated the group on Bob Perry's health, I shared my invocation with the group. The club agreed to send Bob a get better bouquet! I focused on the ability that Rotary has to impact in a positive way local, national & international issues.

    Following lunch, Cathy Lathrop presented the weekly Rotary Foundation Thought. Greg Thevenet missed his chance for us to sing Happy Birthday to him. Greg's BD was on the 22nd of June. We honored Mike Riegel for 9 years of membership. Lee Vincent pointed out that Mike re-joined in 2001.

    Bob Perry was honored for 13 weeks of perfect attendance. RB handled the Sergeant of Arms tasks. He collected fines for late arrivals, missing Rotary pins & early departures. Then he collected for missed meetings.

    Under announcements, Dave Stryker asked for help in housing youth for a community program. I invited members to help Bruno Giulini by recruiting programs for August & beyond. Cathy Lathrop updated the group on the Relay for Life Program. I reminded the club members that next week is the annual Scholarship Program. The Foundation BOD will meet right after the meeting to approve the foundation budget. Later Lee & I will visit Waterfront Children's Center to recruit new members.

    On July 13, we'll hold our induction ceremony. Please let me know if you plan to bring guests. The District Governor will be sworn in on the same day. The next Visioning Committee Meeting will be July 8th at 5 PM. Thanks to members who helped with the Senior Dinner on the 19th.

    Lian Obrey passed out raffle tickets for the Boat Raffle. Every member is asked to help the raffle by selling tickets. The Raffle will have a favorable impact on the funding the club's foundation will have for community grants & projects.

    RB collected good & bad news dollars for several club members.

    Following the club meeting, I opened the Club Assembly. I requested members to nominate a community person to receive a Paul Harris Fellowship which Jack Flaherty has given to the club. I also reported that Michelle Mencer has resigned do to education, career & family demands. Mike Riegel has been appointed to fill the BOD vacancy. Cathy Latrhop will chair the Jerry Scarano Award Committee. Please send her your nominations.

    John Scott distributed the club budget for the 2010-11 Rotary year which the BOD had approved last week. The club's budget is $35,170.08 with a projected $1,210 fund balance.

    He also passed out the monthly financial report which reflects a net income of $426.43.

    I concluded the Club Assembly by reflecting on the year & my hope that the Visioning Process would give the club new vigor & direction rather causing a rift over some issues. I asked club members to move ahead & give RB their full support & put past differences behind us. We need to continue the successes of this year rather than dwell on past differences.
Have a great Rotary Week!  John Silsby 

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, June 15th, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

Tuesday, June 8th, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

Comments are pending from RB Kent.

Tuesday, June 1st, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

Tuesday, May 25th, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM. I welcomed students, parents and school faculty to our meeting to recognize Student of the Years for Groton's Middle & High Schools. Almost 40 members & guests were present.

    RB Kent led the group in the pledge to allegiance & the singing of "America." The club membership shared the 4-Way Test with our guests. My invocation focused on the club's recognition of high achieving students.

    Following lunch, I recalled the meeting to order. We waited until the program to recognize students & their parents. No other guests were present.

    We recognized Glenn Arthur's birthday & Mike Falk's anniversary. Neither were in attendance. Bill Miller & Pete Lampasona were honored for 13 weeks of perfect attendance.

    Bruno Giulini collected fines & for missed meetings.

    I shared several announcements with the group. Currently we are seeking programs for July & beyond. Please sign up for the Thomas Rd. clean up on June 12th & the Relay for Life Program on June 25-6.

    Following the meeting the BOD is meeting to fill Gina Kolodnicki's vacancy. (The BOD appointed Nolan Nixon to join the board immediately.) The BOD of the Club's Foundation is meeting after the BOD meeting to consider grant applicants.

    Tomorrow at 5:00 PM the Visioning Committee is meeting at Bailey Agency's office. On June 29th, I'll be meeting with staff from Waterfront Children's Center who are considering membership. On July 13th will be the induction ceremony for new club officers.

    Next week's speaker will be John Bradshaw who will speaking on developing scouting as part of the Chikumbuso Project & showing a video of the GSE's team's visit to South Africa. I mentioned that I had a chance to promote the creation of a new Interact Club at Grasso Tech HS as keynote speaker at the school's National Honor Society Induction Ceremony.

    I introduced Paul Kadri who emceed the Student of the Year Program. Principals from Cutler, Westside & Fitch Middle Schools narrated their student of year's achievements. For Fitch HS, Joe Arcarese, principal, recognized Stephanie Philipetti as student of the year. Stephanie is the president of the school's Interact Club.   From Cutler Middle School -  Robert Anderson as student of the year.  From Fitch Middle School - Madeline Brenneisen  as student of the year.  From West Side Middle School - Brittany Noonan as student of the year.   The club members warmly applauded all of the honored students!

    Following the ceremony, a group picture was taken.

    I adjourned the meeting at 1:25 PM.

Have a great Rotary Week!  John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, May 18th, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM. After the membership pledged to allegiance, I led the group in a hearty rendering of "America." We shared the 4-Way Test with late arrives - Dave Brown, Lian Obrey & Pete Lampasona.

    My invocation focused on the 4-Way Test & our commitment to community, club, vocational & international service.

    Following lunch, I recalled the meeting to order. After quickly raffling off some leftover items from the TV Auction, I asked Cathy Lathrop to share with the members the Weekly Rotary Foundation Thought. Following her words, I reported that our club has almost fulfilled it annual commitment to the RI Foundation. We have given 98% of our goal of $4510.

    Then I regrettably told the group that Gina Kolodnicki has requested a leave of absence because she has lost her job. Though Gina wasn't present to share the Weekly Membership Minute, I strongly urged members to continue recruit new members.

    We silently celebrated Jack Flaherty's birthday. Though Walter Brown wasn't present, we honored his 55 years of service to Rotary.

    Bruno Giulini collected fines & for missed meeting.

    For announcements, I encouraged members to sign up the Clean Up of Thomas Rd. on June 12th & Relay for Life on June 25-6. I reported that a BOD meeting will be held on May 19th at 8 AM. A special budget committee is meeting at 4 PM today. Right after today's meeting, the club's foundation board will receive grant requests. On May 26th at 5:30 PM at Bailey Agency, the Visioning Committee is meeting. All members are invited to attend.

    We will celebrated the Student of the Year Program at next week's club meeting. Fred Keith is seeking help to interview HS students for club scholarships. Bill Anhalt updated the membership on Bo Bohannan & his wife's injuries which occurred due to an auto mishap.

    Bruno collected good & bad news dollars.

    I called the Club Assembly to order shortly after 1 PM. I honored John Scott as the Rotarian of the month for his hard work as Treasurer & active participation on the BOD, Visioning Committee & TV Auction.

    I reported that we have given $2214 to Polio Plus over the past 2 years. Lian updated the members on the Boat Raffle. I made some general comments about the club's participation in the District's Visioning Process. Mike Riegel as chair of the Visioning Committee gave a more detailed report on the activities of the committee. The committee makes recommendations to the BOD & then the membership has the opportunity to voice their thoughts. Considering changing the location of club meetings was the first recommendation.

    After Mike's report, I shared 2 more recommendations with the membership. First, the Visioning Committee & BOD endorsed changing the club name to the Groton Rotary Club. After a motion was made by John Scott & seconded by Mike Riegel, I took a hand vote which supported the name change. The second recommendation was to revitalize the TV Auction. Revenue generated by the auction has declined every year. We have less money for community grants & other programs. To achieve this goal, a special committee has been formed. Lian Obrey has agreed to chair it. Some club members have agreed to work on the committee. Lian is seeking other members to join it. Several members made suggestions to improve the auction.

    I adjourned the meeting at 1:35 PM.

Have a great Rotary Week!  John Silsby 

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, May 11th, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

Have a great Rotary Week!  John Silsby 

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, May 4th, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

Comments are Pending!

Tuesday, April 27th, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

Comments are Pending!

Tuesday, April 20th, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM. After welcoming our guests from South Africa, Mike Riegel led the gathering in the pledge to the flag & singing of America. This week marked our first visit to a potential new location for our club meetings. The Hilton Garden Inn hosted the meeting & provided us with a brief review of their services.

    We had a good turnout of members & guests. 32 were served lunch.

    Prior to the meeting Frank Winkler & I hosted a tour of the Subase & brief driving tour through the City of Groton.

    While we were being served lunch, I made the weekly announcements:

    I reported that Cathy Lathrop, Gina Kolodnicki, Lea Dorn & I attended the District Assembly this past Saturday in Meriden. Bruno Guilini is seeking programs for June 8th & 15th. The club is helping to sponsor Groton's Arbor Day Celebration on April 30th at 2 PM at Kolnaski School. On June 12th, we're doing our quarterly clean up of Thomas Rd.

    On April 27th, our club meeting with be held at the Groton Town House on rt. 12. Dick Benson from the District will be attending & joining Hope Toelken & myself at the meeting at Grasso Tech High School to begin forming an Interact Club at the HS. At next week's meeting, we'll be hosting the Serviceman of the Month Program.

    Tomorrow the Board of Directors is meeting at 8 AM at the City Muni Bldg. On May 4th, our club meeting will be held at the Mystic Marriott.

    After announcements, I asked Cathy Lathrop to present the Weekly Rotary Foundation Thought & Gina Kolodnicki to share the Member Minute for the week.

    Then we adjourned for lunch & fellowship.

    Following lunch, I suggested we proceed with the program & skip the good & bad news agenda.

    For our program, our guests from the GSE Team from South Africa provided a PowerPoint slide show with each member over viewing his/her career & providing historical & background information on Rotary & the Southern African Countries.

    The program was headed by Team Leader, Andre Brandmuller, an attorney from South Africa. Other team members included: Jeanne-Louise Liebenberg, an environmental superintendent in mining; Moisgraela Motimedi, a nurse in government community clinic; Shaakira Chaya, a doctor; Shaun Francis, district manager Sabmiller Manufacturing; and Murray Thomas, educational administrator in educational reform.

    Their presentation was very informative & thought provoking. We were honored to meet them & host the team for the day.

    I adjourned the meeting at 1:30 PM.

Have a great Rotary Week!  John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, April 13th, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM.

    RB Kent led the membership in the pledge to the flag & the singing of "America." We shared the 4- Way Test with our guest. My invocation focused on the opportunities we have as Americans to help others because of the resourceful nation we live in.

    While the members enjoyed soup & salad, I reported that next week the club will be hosting a GSE Team from South Africa. Prior to the meeting Frank Winkler & I will be joining the Team for a visitation to the subase. The Team will present our program.

    Tomorrow the Visioning Committee is meeting at 5:30 PM at Bailey Agencies office.

    On Saturday, Cathy Lathrop, Lea Doran, Gina Kolodnicki & I will be participating the Annual District Assembly in Meriden.

    On April 19th, the club will be holding a social at Flanagan's Restaurant at 5:30 PM. On April, the club will be hosting the Serviceman of the Month Program. There will also be a meeting at Grasso Tech High School to take steps to form a new Interact Club there. On April 30th, the club will be participating in the Town of Groton's Annual Arbor Day Program at Kolnaski Magnet School.

    We are seeking programs for June 8th & 15th. On June 12th, the club will be participating in the Adopt-A-Highway Program by cleaning up Thomas Rd.

    Following lunch, I recalled the meeting to order. Mike Riegel on Cathy Lathrop's behalf presented the weekly Rotary Foundation Thought. Gina Kolodnicki followed by sharing the weekly Membership Minute with the membership.

    There were no birthdays, anniversaries or attendance milestones to celebrate. Bruno Guilini resumed his Sergeant of Arms duties by collecting fines & good & bad news dollars.

    Following the club meeting, I opened the club assembly by honoring Hope Toelken as Rotarian of the Month.

    Then I shared with the membership the Board of Director's recommendation to consider a new location for our weekly meetings by visiting other potential sites for the next 3 weeks. Through email, club members had been alerted that we planned to air this topic at the club meeting. It was proposed that we meet on April 20th at the Hilton Garden Inn, on April 27th the Groton Town House & on May 4th the Mystic Marriott. A second motion added the GMI as a 4th site. After much discussion, the membership voted to visit the 4 sites over the next month & on May 11th vote on a final luncheon location.

    John Scott distributed monthly finance reports.

    In light of lengthy discussion, no other business was discussed & I adjourned the meeting at 1:30 PM.

Have a great Rotary Day! John Silsby 

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, April 6th, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM. I welcomed back Bruno Giulini! Its great to have him attend our luncheon. RB Kent led the membership in the pledge to flag & another down beat version of "America."

    We shared our 4-Way Test with our guests. My invocation encouraged members to pray for the safety & good health of our service men & women.

    Today we experienced our second week of our revised menu plan. While we were served soup & salad, I reviewed this week's announcements. I urged the members to volunteer for 3 upcoming events. Club members are asked to help with the Senior Dinner on April 10th. I also asked for members to help with the GSE Team visitation on April 20th. For a final time, I urged members to sign up for the District Assembly on April 17th.

    I asked members to help Bruno recruit programs for meetings on May 10th & June 8th & 15th. Next week we'll have a club assembly. And on April 27th, we celebrate the annual Serviceman of the Month Program.

    Other key dates include the Arbor Celebration on April 30th and Thomas Rd. Clean Up on June 12th. The next meeting of the Visioning Committee will be held on April 14h.

    Lian Obrey updated the club on the Boat Raffle Project.

    Following lunch, I recalled the meeting to order.

    We recognized our guests. It was Nick Utz last chance for the club to sing to him!

    I invited Lee Vincent to induct our newest member Nick Utz. His sponsor RB Kent participated in the induction process. We welcomed Nick to the club!!! Nick told us about his career & interest in community service.

    Then I asked Cathy Lathrop to share the Weekly Rotary Foundation Thought with the club. Gina Kolodnicki then presented the Weekly Membership Minute.

    This week we honored 4 members who were celebrating years of membership. They included Bruno who has been a member for 7 years; Stan Cardinal for 18 years; Bo Bohannen for 26 years; & Cathy Lathrop for 4 years.

    RB Kent collected fines. He also collected good & bad news dollars. Lian thanked Ed Kolar & members for helping with the TV Auction.  And, it was announced that the auction will be on April 2nd next year.

    Then I asked John Scott to introduce our guest speaker. Greg Drab from Advantage Personal Training told the club members how ongoing exercise helps the body with stress. He led the group in low impact exercise. He held a drawing & some members won fitness opportunities at his gym.

    I adjourned the meeting at 1:35 PM.

Have a great Rotary Week!    John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, March 30th, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I opened the meeting at 12:15. Despite torrential rain, 18 loyal Rotarians attended the meeting. I needed a boat to get the meeting...

    John Scott led the group in the pledge of allegiance & then in the singing of "America." We shared the 4-Way Test with our fellow Rotarian John Bradshaw. My invocation focused on the local club being the heart of Rotary!

    Today we experienced the new meal menu. Each member had a choice of 3 luncheon entrees or lunch salad. Soup & salad were also provided.

    To accommodate the change, I restructured the agenda & covered announcements while we ate our soup & salad.

    I encouraged members to attend the District Assembly on April 17th. On April 20th, we will be hosting a GSE Team from South Africa. The team will be visiting the Subase in the morning & attending our luncheon meeting. A volunteer is needed to host their visit to the subase. Volunteers are also needed following the meeting to drop them off to vocational site visit.

    Weekly programs are being sought for May 11th & June 8th & 15th. The club is participating in Groton's Arbor Day Program on April 30th. The next senior dinner we'll be hosting in planned for April 10th. On June 12th is our next Thomas Rd. clean up date.

    The Visioning Committee will be meeting on March 31st at 5:30 PM. Nick Utz will be inducted as a member on April 6th. The club is working with Grasso Tech & Dick Benson from the District to form an Interact Club at Grasso Tech.

    The club has submitted applications for 2 district awards.

    Ed Kolar reported that the TV Auction generated a gross revenue of $9,335.

    Following lunch, I recalled the meeting to order. Our only guest was fellow Rotarian John Bradshaw.

    Cathy Lathrop presented her Weekly Rotary Foundation Thought. Then Gina Kolodnicki shared the Weekly Membership Minute with club members.

    I celebrated my 65th birthday on March 29th & asked the members to sing to me!

    John Scott collected fines & good & bad news dollars.

    Then Diane Thomas introduced Mark Ellen Blake from Vitas Hospice. Mary Ellen shared the club the difficulties veterans have with aging & approaching death peacefully. Her talk was very moving. She shared with the members the counseling that Hospice Vitas provides aging veterans to help them past without the pain of their involvement in war.

    I adjourned the meeting at 1:30 PM.

Have a great Rotary Week!   John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, March 23rd, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15. Following our pledge to the flag, we sang a painful rendition of America. After reciting the 4-Way Test, my invocation focused on the inspiration that Spring brings & that veteran Rotarians should be new members learn about Rotary.

    Following lunch, I recalled the meeting to order. At the meeting, we didn't have any guests to sing to. Cathy Lathrop shared the Weekly Rotary Foundation Thought with the club.

    Ted Colburn missed his birthday! We sang to Diane Thomas in celebration of her anniversary on March 26th.

    Lea Dorn was honored for 2 years of club membership. I also honored as Rotarian of the Month for being a very active member, doing a great job as secretary & following the leadership steps toward the presidency!

    Several members were honored for 13 weeks for perfect attendance: Diane Thomas, Nolan Nixon, Lee Vincent & Bob Perry.

    RB Kent vigorously collected fines & for missed meetings.

    Under announcements, I promoted attendance at the District Assembly on April 17th. I also reported that we are looking a visitation site for the GSE Team from South Africa. They will be attending the club meeting on April 20th.

    I reported that we'd be participating the annual Groton Arbor Day Celebration on April 30th. On the 17th is a senior dinner which will be held at the new Groton Senior Center. Hope & I attended the Interact Club Meeting the past Wednesday. Interact members will be helping with the TV Auction.

    Our next Adopt-A-Highway program is planned on June 12th. The next meeting of the Vision Process Management Committee will be on March 31st at 5:30 PM.

    We are hoping to induct a new member on March 30th.

    Following the club meeting, I conducted a club assembly.

    Initially I reported that the BOD wished to take action to improve the quality of lunches at GMI. John Scott reported on a meeting which Mike Riegel, John & John attended with management from the GMI. At this meeting, the idea of selecting luncheon entrees from the GMI menu replacing the current buffet luncheon. Each week members would have the choice of 3 entrees & a salad to select from. The entrees would change once a month. The club meeting would proceed our lunch. The speaker would still be at 1 PM. John Scott made a motion to enact this change; Mike Riegel seconded the motion; club voted in favor of it. Our weekly cost will be $17 instead of $15.

    Lian Obrey updated the members on the TV Auction. Members have solicited more than $19,000 in donated items for the auction. Publicity has been distributed town-wide. We have adequate volunteers to cover the event. Hope Tolken has been trained to oversee the City Muni Bldg operation (bid center). We're ready for the auction!!!

Everyone enjoy a great Rotary Week!
See you at the auction!  Have a great Rotary Week! John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, March 16th, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the club meeting to order at 12:15 PM. Following the pledge of allegiance, we sang together "America." Then in unison for our guests, we recited the 4-Way Test. In my prayer, I urged the members to use the new life of spring to nurture new life in their involvement in Rotary.

    Following our corn beef & cabbage luncheon, RB Kent updated the membership on his PETS Training experience. He's feeling full of energy & ready to be president!

    Dee Hauber was our only guest & for the final time, we sang to her.

    Cathy Lathrop did her weekly terrific job of sharing with the membership the Weekly Rotary Foundation Thought. Then Gina Kolodnicki presented another well thought out Membership Minute.

    We sang to Dave Stryker to celebrate his March 10th Birthday. Walt Brown, Lea Doran & I received 4-Way Test pens for 13 weeks of perfect attendance.

    RB Kent collected fines & good & bad news dollars!

    For announcements, Lian Obrey updated the club on the auction & encouraged members to seek out more donations. Members are urged to sign up to work at the auction. I passed around a sign up sheet for the District Assembly on April 17th & encouraged members to attend.

    I reminded members of the Blood Drive on March 22nd. To donate, please call 1-800-733-2767.

    Also the BOD Meeting will be tomorrow at 8 AM at the City Muni Bldg. Next week's meeting will be a club assembly dedicated to the TV Auction. The next Visioning Process Committee Meeting will be held on March 31st at 5:30 PM at the office of Bailey Agencies.

    Next week we may be inducting some new members.

    At this point, I turned the meeting over to Lee Vincent who inducted our newest member, Dee Hauber from Chelsea Groton Bank. RB Kent was her sponsor.

    Ben Morse a program supervisor for the Town's Parks & Recreation Dept. was the program presenter. He told the club about the Community Garden that was started a year ago in the Town. The garden is managed through the parks & recreation dept.. Most of the manpower is through volunteerism. Community donations covered the cost. In the first year, 700 pounds of produce were donated to Groton's Food Bank. Garden plots are available for rental at $25 per plot.

    I adjourned the meeting at 1:25 PM.

Have a great Rotary Week!   John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, March 9th, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15. RB Kent led the pledge to the flag & the singing of America! We shared the 4-Way Test with our guests. My invocation focused on the 4-Avenues of Service of Rotary; namely, Community, Club, Vocation & International.

    Following lunch, I introduced Tyler Olsen from the Red Cross who promoted the club sponsored Blood Drive scheduled for Monday, March 22nd from 1:30-6:30 PM at the Groton Regency. Members who wish to donate blood should call 1-800-733-2767.

    Returning to the agenda, our guests from the Mystic Club & prospective new members were introduced & harmonized to. Then Cathy Lathrop shard the weekly Rotary Foundation Thought with club members. In light of Gina Kolodnicki's absence, I reported that we planned to induct 2 new members at the March 16th meeting - Dee     Hauber & David Rose.

    We didn't have any birthdays or anniversaries to celebrate. We did honor Dave Brown for 4 years of service; Nolan Nixon for 9 years; & Fred Keith for 25 years.

    Frank Winkler was honored for 13 weeks & 5 years of perfect attendance. RB collected fines & missed meeting dollars.

    For announcements, I reported on upcoming District Events; namely, the District Assembly on April 17th & the visitation from the GSE Team from South Africa on April 19-20. In addition, I reported that we have programs planned through the end of April & are looking for ideas for May & June.

    Dave Brown updated the club on the TV Auction. Hope Toelken passed around a sign up sheet for the auction. Ed Kolar encouraged members to drop off auction agreements to his home & asked members to be brief when they complete the forms.

    I reported that prospective member letters for Peter Bartnik, Sr. & Nick Utz were distributed. The Visioning Process Management Committee will be meeting at the Bailey Agencies Office on Wednesday, March 10th at 5:30 PM. All members are invited!

    The club will be selling chili at this year's Fall Fest in cooperation with Grasso Tech High School. We're also in the process of forming at new Interact Club at Grasso Tech.

    The BOD meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 17th at 8 AM at the City Muni Bldg.

    John Scott introduced our guest speaker. Lisa Temper Bates the Executive Director of MASH (Mystic Area Shelter & Hospitality Agency) described for the group the severe homeless problem that exists in SECT. MASH houses the homeless & helps them find permanent housing & jobs. The economy has escalated the problem.

I adjourned the meeting at 1:30 PM.

Have a great Rotary week!  John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, March 2nd, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15. I welcomed guests & members of the Fitch Interact Club. Together we pledged to the flag & sang in unison "America." Then the members shared the 4-Way Test with our guests. My invocation focused on the success of our Interact Club at Fitch High School. I encouraged members to the energy & enthusiasm of the Interact Club to grow the club & expand our service projects in the community.

    Following lunch, I asked RB Kent to encourage members to seek donations for the TV Auction. He distributed many of the donation forms which no club member had volunteered to do.

    Then we returned to the regular agenda & introduced guests & students from the Interact Club. Cathy Lathrop designated Rachael from the Interact Club sharing the weekly Rotary Foundation Thought. Gina Kolodnicki followed by reviewing John Kenny, President of RIs, letter promoting membership in Rotary.

    The club celebrated a belated birthday song to Ed Kolar. We honored Jim Mitchell & Lian Obrey for 12 years of membership. Pete Lampasona was applauded for 45 years of perfect membership. Gina was honored for 13 weeks of perfect attendance.

    RB collected fines & missed meeting dollars collectively.

    I reminded club members of the District Assembly on April 17th & GSE Team visitation on April 19-20. I reported that we need a program for March 9th. Prospective membership letters for Dee Hauber & Dave Rose were distributed to the membership. On Thursday, March 4th at 5 PM, the Visioning Process Management Committee will be meeting at the Bailey Agencies Office.

    Continuing, I reported that the club planned to participate in the 2010 Fall Fest planned for October 9th. With the assistance of Grasso Tech, we plan to sell chili this year.

    For today's program, I introduced Stephanie Fillapetti, president of the Interact. She told the membership about the Dodge ball tournament which the club plans to hold on April 3rd to raise money for the Heart Society. Aaron Clark provided more details to the club. Then Ryland Costello, who represented the club in the 4-Way Speech Contest, gave his speech to the club members. He related the Rotary 4-Way Test to the electoral system used to elect the president on the United States.

    I adjourned the meeting at 1:30.

    I called a special board of directors meeting to follow the club meeting.
Have a great Rotary week!  John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, February 23rd, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM. After welcoming the members & guests, we pledged to the American flag. In union, we sang "America" & then recited the 4-Way Test to our members & guests.

    My invocation focused using the coming of spring as motivational time for growing our membership & providing more community service.

    Following lunch, RB Kent introduced 2 prospective new members - Dee Hauber& Dave Rose. Our welcoming song was pretty outstanding for our club members. Then Cathy Lathrop shared the weekly Foundation Thought & Gina followed with an in-depth membership minute. We all thanked RB for recruiting new members!

    We celebrated no birthdays & anniversaries. Pete Lamposa missed being honored for 45 years of perfect attendance. Glenn Arthur & Bill Miller were given a 4-Way Test pen for 13 weeks of perfect attendance.

    RB filled in for Bruno Giulini, who's recovering from surgery. He collected fines & for missed meetings.

    I reported that members should mark on April 17th as the date for the annual District Assembly. Mike Riegel volunteered to host the GSE Team when it visited the Subase Museum on April 19th.

    I encouraged members to participate in the district's Rotary Career Information Program. In Bruno's absence, I am handling the club calendar. For March, we are looking for programs for the 9th & 30th. We have a full slate of programs for April.

    The Interact Club will be presenting the program for the March 2nd Meeting. Ryland Costello will be presenting his 4-Way Test Speech. Stephanie Fillipetti will be updating members on Interact Events.

    9 Interact members joined 7 club members helping with the Thomas Rd. Clean Up Program on the 20th. Thanks to Lee Vincent, Diane Thomas, Nolan Nixon, Cathy Lathrop, Lea Doran & Dave Brown for helping with the program.

    Mike Riegel will be chairing a Vision Process Management Committee meeting on March 4th at 5 PM at Bailey Agency.

    Following Good & Bad News $s, I opened the Club Assembly. Lian Obrey reported Ed Kolar is home & will be attending next week's meeting. She updated the membership on the progress of the TV Auction. John Scott distributed budget reports for the club & foundation budgets. Both are currently in the red.

    I shared with the membership the idea of selling chili at the 2010 Fall Fest. We're hoping that Grasso Tech students can help with this project.

    Lea Doran passed a get well card around the room so members could wish Bruno a quick recovery. Lian suggested that our weekly meeting be listed in the Day. Frank Winkler promised to look into it.

    Diane Thomas reminded members that the club is hosting a senior citizens dinner at the new senior center on April 17th. She reported that we're sponsoring a Blood Drive on March 22nd at the Groton Regency.

    I called a special BOD meeting following the assembly.

    For Rotarian of the month, I recognized Bob Perry for his active club participation. He has chaired the Book Project Committee for several years, is active on the foundation BOD & recently sought out a major donation for a club fund raiser.

    At 1:25 PM, I adjourned the meeting.

Have a great Rotary week!  John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, February 16th, 2010 Meeting Update

Comments pending!

Tuesday, February 9th, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM.

    After we pledged to the flag, the club sang a melodic version of "America." Upon sharing the 4-Way Test with our guests, my invocation focused on Rotary's ability to impact world peace.

    Following lunch, I recalled the meeting to order at 12:40. Though our only guests were our program presenters, we welcomed them to the meeting through song! Cathy Lathrop then shared our weekly Rotary Foundation Thought. Gina Kolodnicki urged members to recruit new members! We haven't had a new member join all year. I echoed her plea!

    We celebrated 2 birthdays today. Bob Perry's birthday was on the 6th & he suggested that we skip his birthday song. Diane Thomas was absence so we couldn't harmonize to her.
Bo Bohannon received his first 4-Way Test pen for 13 weeks of perfect attendance. John Scott received a pen too for 13 weeks & also was honored for 1 year of perfect attendance.

    RB Kent filled in for Bruno Giulini who's recuperating from surgery. He collected fines & good & bad news dollars.

    I shared several announcements with the members. Two forthcoming District events are the District Assembly on April 17th & the GSE Visitation Team from South Africa on April 19-20. In Bruno's absence, I asked members to work with me to seek out weekly programs for March. I passed out to the membership the sign up sheet for the Thomas Rd. clean up on February 20th.

    Under Foundation News, I reported that Doug Crandall had been appointed to the club's foundation board. In addition, the board voted to reduce the amount of our scholarships to $1000 for 3 high school youth & 1 - $500 adult scholarship.

    I reported that the Interact Club would be attending the March meeting & presenting a program to the club. Ryland Costello will be presenting the 4-Way Speech he presented to the district panel.

    Mike Riegel reported that Visioning Program Management Team will be meeting on February 24th. I added that the Board of Directors' next meeting is scheduled for February 17th.

    On behalf of Colin Greshon, DG, I reported that the District's Nominations Committee has selected Brian Amey from the Newtown Rotary Club to be District Governor in 2012-13.

    Lian Obrey urged members to recruit products for the auction. She's in the process of sending out a letter to prospective donors. Club members turned a few donations for the auction. There will be an auction meeting next Tuesday at 11:30 AM.

    Cathy Lathrop introduced our guest speaker, Michael Alves, Community Executive for the American Cancer Society. Michael told the club about national fund raising efforts to help cancer research. He explained the success of the Relay for Life Program which has raised 100s of million dollars for cancer research. The club has agreed to run the food concession for the local event planned for June 26-27 at Fitch High School.

    I adjourned the meeting at 1:20 PM.
Have a great Rotary week!  John Silsby 

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, February 2nd, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15. After the pledge to the flag, we sang a stirring rendition of "America." Following the 4-way test, my invocation focused on the value of the 4-Way Test guiding the club & members actions.

    After lunch, I recalled the meeting at 12:35 & spent sometime distributing contracts for auction items. Then I returned to the regular agenda. After welcoming our guests, the club attempted the sing together but ended up with one table singing behind the other. We did such a lousy job, we sang it over again.

    Cathy Lathrop shared the weekly Foundation Thought with the members. Then we honored 2 birthday boys. Both RB Kent & Mike Riegel were born on February 1st & they aren't twins! Both decided that they didn't want the club to mess up another song.

    We also celebrated 3 membership dates. Paul Kadri celebrated his first year of membership; Frank Winkler his 12th; and Bill Johnston his 28th.

    Mike Riegel was honored for 13 weeks of perfect attendance.

    Bruno Giulini in his role as Sergeant of Arms collected fines & for missed meetings.

    Under announcements, I asked members to sign up for our Adopt-A-Highway program planned for February 20th. I also invited members to participate in the Rotary District's Career Information Program. The District is planning on creating a Career Directory which will be distributed to high schools in the district.

    Hope Toelken reported that she & I attended the Interact Club meeting on January 27th. She was very impressed with the size & focus of the club. There are 60 members. They are planning a Dodgeball Tournament to raise funds for Haiti. Intereract members will be attending a future club meeting. The club may also be participating in the District's New Generations Program on March 6th.

    Ryland Costello, a Interact member, participated in the 4-Way Speech contest as a rep from the club. Programs are being sought for March meetings.

    Members need to seek donations for the TV Auction. The Foundation BOD will be meeting following the club meeting.

    John Scott introduced the speaker for the meeting. Sandra Coulliard from the CT Adoption & Family Services Agency spoke on the adoption process in CT. Her agency facilitates different types on adoption in the state & is funded through grants & donations. Several members had questions on her very informative presentation.

    I adjourned the meeting at 1:30 PM.

Have a great Rotary week!  John Silsby 

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, January 26th, 2010 Meeting Update

comments pending

Tuesday, January 19th, 2010 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15. We had a full house. Besides members, we had 7 teachers and 7 students from Groton's 7 elementary schools.

    After we pledged to the flag and sang America, members recited the 4-way test to the students and teachers. Then I focused my invocation on Rotary drive to impact literacy.

    Following our lunch, I recalled the meeting to order. I thanked RB Kent for filling in for me for the past 2 meetings. I also mentioned that I'd spoken to Barbara Buchanan who will be leaving the area to be closer to her family and be moving into a more supportive living situation. She promised to attend a meeting before he move.

    Bo filled in for Cathy and updated the club on Rotary's effort to help the Haitian crisis. Gina provided her weekly membership minute which helped the students better understand Rotary.

    We celebrated RB's 5 years of membership and perfect attendance. Bruno Giulini collected fines and for missed meetings.

    Under announcements, I reminded BOD members of tomorrow's meeting and postponed the foundation meeting until February 1st. I asked for candidates to fill an opening on the foundation board. Dave Brown volunteered to be appointed.

    I reported that Bob Perry has committed to continuing to chair the Book Project. I reminded club members that February 20th will be our next Adopt-A-Highway program. Ryland Costello a student from Fitch High School will represent the club in the 4-Way Test Speech Contest. Bruno noted that we have a full month of programs for February.

    Lian Obrey updated the members on the progress of the Club's AV Auction. She passed out a new brochure that the committee has prepared to help solicit auction donations and continued to distribute auction recruitment forms and flyers.

    We enjoyed many good new and bad news reports from members.

    I introduced Paul Kardi who coordinated the presentation on this year's Dictionary Project. Paul initially asked club members to tell students who they were and what their profession was like. Then he had the teacher and student for each of Groton's elementary schools make a brief presentation. In some cases, the 3rd grade student made a presentation the group. The program was well received and was a good experience for everyone.

    I adjourned the meeting at 1:30 PM.
Have a great Rotary week!  John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, January 12th, 2010 Meeting Update

comments pending

Tuesday, January 5th, 2010 Meeting Update

comments pending

Tuesday, December 29th, 2009 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM. RB led the club in the pledge to the flag. Together in union we sang "America." In the spirit of the holidays, we recited the 4-Way Test. My invocation urged members to be more active in 2010 and join a club committee and work at club events.

    Following lunch, Cathy Lathrop shared her weekly Foundation Thought. John Scott urged members to make their annual donation to the RI Foundation. Gina Kolodnicki promoted membership growth to the club members.

    We honored RB Kent for 5 years of club membership with a 4-Way Test pen. RB filled in as Sergeant of Arms. He collected fines and good and bad news dollars.

    I reported that RB will be attending Pre-Pets Training tomorrow in preparation for his presidency. In behalf of Bruno Giulini, I reported that we need programs for February meetings. Next week Mimi Peck Llewellyn will be our guest speaker. She'll be telling the club about Scams Directed at Seniors.

    I announced that the next clean up date for Thomas Rd. will be February 20th weather permitting. A student from Fitch HS will be representing the club in the District's 4-Way Speech Contest. Hope Toelken will be assisting Fred Keith with the Scholarship Committee. I added that March 27th is the date for the Club's TV Auction. The first meeting of the Auction Committee will be January 5th at 11:15 AM at GMI. Dave Brown volunteered for the committee.

    In light of the fact that our speaker didn't attend, RB told a story of high waves on high sea during his Naval Career!

I adjourned the meeting at 1:10 PM.
 

Have a great Rotary week!  John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, December 22nd, 2009 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

Tuesday, December 15th, 2009 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15. I welcomed our guests from the Groton Naval Subase. We had a roomful of members and Naval guests.

    Following the pledge of allegiance, we labored through a rough version of "America." Then club members shared the 4-Way Test with our guests. My invocation thanked our servicemen and women for providing sanctuary for our families so we can carry out the goals of Rotary.

    Following our turkey dinner, I recalled the meeting to order at 12:40. Jumping into announcements while we finished dinner, I reported that tomorrow at 8 AM at John Scott's office is our monthly BOD meeting. Next week we will be holding a club assembly. On January 19th, we will honoring teachers and students from Groton Schools who are participating in the Dictionary Project. Program are still being sought for January 5th and 12th. The gifts donated by members and other GI&S visitors will be dropped off to Groton Social Services by Sharon Fortune.

    Then I announced the platform of candidates for officers and directors for the 2010-11 year. When I opened the floor to further nominations, no one was nominated. A motion was passed closing the nominations. A second motion was passed for the secretary to cast a single vote for the new officers.

    The officers and directors for 2010-11 will be: RB Kent, President; Lian Obrey, President-Elect; Lea Doran, Vice-President; Cathy Lathrop, Secretary; John Scott, Treasurer;     Directors: Bruno Giulini, Gina Kolodnicki, Nolan Nixon, Diane Thomas, Hope Toelken, Lee Vincent and Frank Winkler.

    At next week's meeting, we'll be be presenting John Scott with a Paul Harris Fellowship. Members are encouraged to wear the Paul Harris Medallions.

    Returning to typical agenda, club members introduced the Naval guests at each table. Then Cathy shared the Weekly Foundation Thought with the group. Gina followed with the Weekly Membership Minute, emphasizing the benefits of becoming a Rotary Club member.

    Then we sang to Dave Brown a harmonic rendition of Happy Birthday. Dave enjoyed his BD on 12/10.

    Gina was honored with a 2 years perfect membership pin. Lea and John received 4-Way Test pens for 13 weeks of perfect attendance.

    Bruno collected fines. When it came to good and bad news dollars, several members gave multiple dollars in recognition of the attendance by Naval personnel.

    For the program, we invited the visiting Naval Service Men and Women to share with the club their bio and plans for their careers in the Navy.

I adjourned the meeting at 1:20 PM.

Have a great Rotary week!  John Silsby 

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, December 8th, 2009 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    We had a busy meeting on Tuesday

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15. We had a SRO crowd in attendance (40+). Several were members of the Stonington Club and the Chikumbuso Committee who attended to see Sabrina Beulher receive a Paul Harris Fellowship sponsored by Dave Stryker. Sabrina was surprised by the presentation and thought her colleagues were there to enjoy the update on the Chikumbuso Project. Paul Kadri brought 2 Interact Students to the meeting to give them a chance to promote an Interact Club Fund Raiser.

    Following the pledge of allegiance, we sang a hearty rendition of "America." Then the club membership shared the 4-Way Test with the houseful of guests. My invocation was a holiday message to club members asking them to consider new ways in the next years to help their neighbors and community through Rotary.

    Due to our lengthy agenda, I re-opened the meeting at 12:35. To allow members to finish their lunch, I skip to announcements.

    Coming events include the Military Holiday Luncheon on the 15th, club assembly on the 22nd, club BOD meeting on the 16th and on January 19th we'll be hosting teachers and 3rd grade students from Groton Schools to celebrate this year's Dictionary Project. The Visioning Management Committee headed by Mike will be on the 9th.

    Bruno is still seeking programs for January. The next Adopt-A-Highway clean up will be held on February 20th. Gifts are still being sought for the holiday tree in the foyer in the GI&S. Pick a tag off the tree and buy a gift to match it!

    New chairpersons are being sought for the Scholarship and Book Project Committees. Current chairs Fred and Bob are willing to prep the new chair.

    After a month long recruitment, the list of candidates for officers and directors was presented:

RB Kent, president; Lian Obrey, President-Elect; Lea Doran, Vice-President; Cathy Lathrop, Secretary; John Scott; Treasurer; Directors: Bruno Giulini, Gina Kolodnicki, Nolan Nixon, Diane Thomas, Hope Toelken, Lee Vincent and Frank Winkler.

    Nominations will be accepted from the floor on the 15th and the annual elections will be conducted on the 22nd.

    Finally, Rachael and Stephanie from the Interact Club announced that the club in conjunction with the Multicultural Club at Fitch HS will be holding a fund raising dinner on the 17th at 6:45 PM at Fitch HS. Tickets are $15.

    Returning to the agenda, we introduced the many guests present. It was great to see so many guests present and fellow Rotarians from the Stonington and New London Clubs and our Interact Club.

    Cathy and Gina did their typically great job of reminding the club of the benefits of the RI Foundation programs and membership in Rotary!

    We celebrated Pete Lamposa's 80th with a resounding "Happy Birthday" to Pete!

    Gina was honored for 13 weeks of perfect attendance and 2 years of perfect attendance!

    Bruno collected a fistful of fines. Many of our guests were late and many of the members forgot their Paul Harris medallions, so the club treasury benefited!

    Following Good and Bad News Dollars, I introduced Bo Bohannan. Bo told the group about the Paul Harris Fellowship program and Paul Harris Fellows are honored. He mentioned that 189 club members and associates have received Paul Harris Fellowships since the program commenced. Then he introduced Dave Stryker who finally let the big secret out. Through his sponsorship, Sabrina Beulher was honored as Paul Harris Fellow. Dave shared Sabrina's many achievements on behalf of the Chikumbuso Project. She was surprised and very grateful of the recognition. The audience gave her a standing ovation.

    Then Sabrina updated the club on the most recent achievements of the Chikumbuso project in Zambia. Sabrina spent 2 weeks on location and had many heart warming stories to tell us. Her power point presentation showed the club that many improvements have been made to improve the living conditions, educational program and health of the families who participate.

I adjourned the meeting at 1:35 PM.

Have a great Rotary week!  John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, December 1st, 2009 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:25. Following the pledge and the singing of "America", I asked 3 late arriving members; namely, Frank, Jim and Dave to lead us in reciting the 4-Way Test. My invocation emphasized Rotary's 100 years of service to our communities and world.

    Following lunch, I recalled the meeting to order at 12:40 PM. Aside from our guest speakers, we had no guests present. Cathy did her weekly good job telling us the accomplishments of the RI Foundation. Gina followed with her membership minute. Lian promised a new member in January.

    We had no birthdays to celebrate. We did celebrate Paul Kadri's anniversary with a song though Paul wasn't there. I promised to bill him for our song. Ted Colburn missed recognition for 14 years of club membership.

    Bruno handled the Sergeant of Arms duties and collected lots of bucks from late members. Jim Mitchell made a major contribution for missed meetings.

    Under announcements, Bruno asked for programs for January meetings. I promised a platform of officers and directors for next week's meeting. We will elect our new board at the club assembly on the 22nd.

    At next week's meeting, Dave Stryker will present a Paul Harris Fellowship to our guests speaker Sabrina Buehler. Sabrina will update the membership on the Chikumbuso project. Members are invited to wear their Paul Harris Medallions next week.

    I invited members to take a gift tag from the holiday tree at the GMI and buy a gift for a needy youth. Tags will be available tomorrow and December 18th will be the closing date.

    Paul Kadri will be helping me to carry out this year's 4-Way Test Contest at Fitch High School. Our next clean up of Thomas Rd. is tentatively set for February 20th. The BOD meeting is scheduled for the 16th at John Scott's office.

    Mike rescheduled the Visioning Committee Meeting to Wednesday, December 9th at 8 AM at the sub base museum.

On December 15th, we'll be holding our annual Naval Holiday Dinner.

    Bruno collected several good and bad news dollars!

    Dave Stryker introduced our speaker, Shirley Dunbar-Rose and her husband, Bob, who told us about the good work of the Friends of Fort Griswold Group. Bob narrated the battle of 1781. Then Dorothy told us about the fort and museum and explained what the Friends Group has been doing to improve the historic site.

    In closing the meeting, I mentioned that our club insignia is posted on Thomas Rd. noting that our club is involved in the Town's Adopt-A-Highway Program.

I adjourned the meeting at 1:30 PM.

Have a great Rotary week! John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, November 24th, 2009 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM. Today we were honoring a dozen Naval personnel at our Thanksgiving Day luncheon. After the pledge to allegiance and our home grown version of "America." We shared the 4-way test with a room full of guests. My invocation thanked the service personnel present for dedicating their careers to our nation's security.

    Since we had more guests than Rotarians, we formed the lunch line by tables. Following our turkey dinner, we presented a check for $5708.80 to Marge Fondulas from Groton's Social Services Dept. to help their food pantry. The Norwich Bulletin was present and photographed Marge receiving the check from RB, Shelly Bernier (Library Bank) and myself. 2 of the servicemen held the Rotary and Lions Club banners. The check is total donation from the combined efforts of the Rotary and Lions Clubs and Liberty Bank.

    Recalling the meeting to order, we skipped our weekly foundation thought and membership minutes. Both Cathy and Gina were absent. We celebrated Fred Keith's birthday. It was worth $5 to him for us to skip a song. Sharon Fortune received a 4-way test pen for 2 years of membership with the club. Doug, Pete, Cathy, Bill, Greg and Diane received pens for 13 weeks of perfect attendance. Bill graciously filled in for Lea who is visiting Paris!

    Mike filled in as Sergeant of Arms and collected fines for us.

    I announced that we'll be hosting a GSE Team from South Africa on April 20th. On the 19th, we'll be hosting a tour of the Sub Museum with them.

    Bruno is working on programs for our January meetings! We need one final candidate for director's position. At next week's meeting, the Friends of Fort Griswold will be presenting. On December 15th, we're hosting our annual Naval Holiday Dinner!

    For today's program, we asked our service members to give us a brief bio of themselves. We enjoyed learning more about them and their careers in the Navy.

    Mike is setting up the first meeting for the Visioning Committee for December 2nd at the sub museum.

    Best wishes from Robin and myself for Thanksgiving! I hope you'll enjoy the day and good food with family and friends!

Have a great Rotary week!  John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, November 17th, 2009 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

The meeting did take place but no comments have been forwarded to the Webmaster for inclusion here. 

Sorry for this inconvenience.  Webmaster    out//

Tuesday, November 10th, 2009 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15. Cathy Lathrop as chair of the Foundation Committee had structured the meeting to emphasize RI Foundation Month by inviting all Paul Harris Fellows in the club and their spouses to wear their medallions to the meeting. After the pledge to flag and our singing of "America" in unison, club members recited the 4-way test. My invocation reminded the membership that November is RI Foundation Month.

    Following lunch, I recalled the meeting to order. After introducing our guests (some were Paul Harris Fellows), Gina shared with us a membership minute. To date, we haven't added 1 member to the club this year. Help recruit members!

    Sharon Fortune celebrated her birthday on 11/7. We sang a bumpy version of Happy Birthday to her. Diane Thomas was recognized for 2 years of membership in the club.

    RB collected fines for late arrivals, missing Rotary pins and early departures. He also collected for missed meetings.

    I reported that the club will be hosting a GSE Team from South Africa on April 20th. At the club assembly on the 17th, Mike will be reporting on the findings of the Visionary Program. I urged the members to help raise funds for the Thanksgiving Turkey Dinner Fund Raiser. On Saturday, we will sponsoring another senior dinner at the Noank School.

    On the past Wednesday, I attended a make-up meeting at my old club the Rotary Club of the Tonawandas. Candidates are still being sought for directors positions. On November 24th, the club will be hosting a dozen Sailors for Thanksgiving Dinner.

    RB collected good and bad news dollars.

    Cathy introduced our guest speaker, Phoebe Leask, Paul Harris Society Chairman for the District. Phoebe reviewed many of the great programs that the clubs, the district and RI International work together on to provide service locally and abroad.

    I adjourned the meeting at 1:35.

Have a great Rotary week!  John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009 Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

The meeting did take place but no comments have been forwarded to the Webmaster for inclusion here. 

Sorry for this inconvenience.  Webmaster    out//

Tuesday, October 27th Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM.

    After the pledge to the flag, we sang a hoarse rendition of "America." Where's Michelle when you need her sparkling voice! though we had no guests to share the 4-Way Test with, the club recited a throaty version! I shared my invocation with the group stressing our continued endeavors to work to make our community a better place to live and raise our families in!

    Following lunch, I recalled the meeting to order at 12:40 PM. We had no guests at the meeting. Gina filled in for Cathy and shared a Foundation Thought. Then she followed up with a Membership Minute. Members are urged to bring a friend to a meeting!

    Lori celebrated her birthday on the 21st. Dave Stryker decided that it was worth an extra dollar to not have club sing in celebration of his anniversary. Glenn Arthur thought otherwise and we harmonized him to celebrate his anniversary.

    John Scott missed receiving a 4-way test pen for 13 weeks of perfect service.

    Bruno collected fines and good and bad news dollars!

    For announcements, Bob reviewed the successful Book Project truck loading event on Saturday. 16 members of Interact and the football team helped club members. I attended the Council of Presidents' meeting on the 24th in New Haven. as a Fall Fest update, I reported that we made $237 profit. Diane distributed a sign up sheet for the Senior Dinner on November 14th. In Hope's absence, I urged club members to help sell raffle tickets at the Liberty Bank. Lian and RB were thanked for contributing baskets for the raffle.

    Nominees for Director positions are being sought. Please run for office! Call John at 536-5686.

    I added that the club will be sending 2 Interact Club members to the RYLA Conference in November. Wayne Clark the Fitch HS advisor was helpful in recruiting students.

    I reported that RB would be chairing the club meetings on November 3rd and 17th in my absence. On November 10th, we'll be honoring Paul Harris Fellows and having a speaker on the the RI Foundation. On November 17th will be the Club Assembly and on the 24th we celebrated Thanksgiving with Sailors from the subase.

    Following the raffle, we held our monthly club assembly. At the Assembly, we voted in favor of increasing weekly luncheon charge to $15 with $1 going to the club foundation effective January 1, 2010. I reported that Mike would make the report on the Visioning Project at the November Club Assembly. I shared information from my attendance at the District's COP Meeting. I stressed the hope that our club could earn a District Governor's Citation this year. I also shared some upcoming district dates including the District Assembly on April 17th. I added that the club planned to support youth activities like RYLA, the 4-Way test Speech Contest and New Generations Program. The GSE Team from South Africa will be touring SECT in April and I'm hoping to host them at our luncheon meeting. At the COP Meeting, I spoke with Mike Walsh, president of the Stonington Club about partnering with them for the Amber Alert Program. Mike was interested. Our Board supports it. There will be future meeting to discuss it in more depth.

    Lian followed with an update on fund raising activities. She has received information on selling Green Mountain Coffee in conjunction with another club and RI. She's seeking more information. The club would receive $3 per bag of coffee sold. Lian also updated the club on organizing a raffle to raise money from the donation of a boat to the club. Through Bob Perry's efforts, the club has received a boat valued in excess of $14,000. Dave Brown is helping Lian organize the raffle.

    I also distributed the monthly budget report for John Scott which shows the club's in the black!

    I adjourned the meeting at 1:35 PM.

Have a great Rotary week!  John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, October 20th Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    After racing traffic all the way from Oxford, CT, I arrived just in time to call the meeting to order. Our 2 guests helped the club members sing a quality version of "America." We shared the 4-way test with our guests. I offered the invocation, in which, I recalled the success of the "Make a Difference Day" program, urged club members to turn their dreams into service projects to benefit youth and seniors and suggested we nurture our environment and enjoy the beauty of CT.

    Following lunch, I recalled the meeting to order.

    Breaking protocol, I thanked members who participated in the "Make a Difference Day" Program on the 17th. 8 members formed 4 clean up teams who picked up 8 large bags of trash from Thomas Rd. Team 1 - Doug & Nolan, team 2 -Lian & Sharon, Team 3 - Cathy & Lea, Team 4 - Lee & John.

    Aside from our speaker, we had one guest. Lee introduced Sue Cullen. The club continued it quality harmony by signing to her. Cathy then presented a weekly foundation thought. Gina focused her membership minute on the 4 areas of service of Rotary. To date, we haven't recruited any new members! Club members have been asked to bring a guest!

    We celebrated Bo's Birthday with a song and then his anniversary with one too. Bo made a generous donation to the polio plus program. Not to be forgotten, we celebrated Bill Miller's anniversary with our final song of the day.

    Though absent, Hope completed one year of service on the 14th.

    Bruno collected fines, which were few and far between. No one was fined for not making up a meeting. Our attendance seems to have improved in the past month.

    For announcements, I reminded club members that Saturday at the BOE Bldg. on Flanders Rd. the Book Project program will be held. Mike, Bob, Gina, Diane, Lea, Greg & Nolan have signed up. Paul Kadri has recruited the football team to help out.

    Next week at the Club Assembly, Mike will be reporting on the Visioning Program. Under Hope's guidance, the Thanksgiving Turkey Dinner Fund Raiser began last Friday. Bruno is looking for programs for December's meetings. On November 14th at Noank School will be the next Senior Dinner. I'll be attending the Council of Presidents' Meeting on Saturday.

    The Nominations Committee is seeking candidates for a December election. November is RI Foundation Month. The November 10th, we will be honoring all Paul Harris Fellows at our lunch meeting. Spouses are invited as well as Paul Harris Fellows who aren't club members.

    Bruno introduced Barbara Strother from the Town of Groton's Dept. of Planning & Development. Barbara shared with the club the many community development projects that have occurred in recent years. She also updated us on the status of Pfizer and Electric Boat. There are many new projects underway including the new senior center and others which will begin next year including the Mystic Streetscape and Bridge Projects.

I adjourned the meeting at 1:30 PM.

Have a great Rotary week!  John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, October 13th Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15. We had a good turnout & some visiting Rotarians & guests too. Following the pledge or allegiance, RB led us in a robust singing of "America." We shared the 4-way test with our guests and Jim Mitchell offered the invocation.

    Following lunch, I recalled the meeting to order. We sang to our 3 guests. We also sang to Doug to celebrate his birthday.

    Bob filled in for Cathy & updated members on club giving to the RI Foundation. Gina did her weekly fine job of encouraging member to invite guests to our meetings. Lian hosted a guest who may be a perspective member.

    Walt Brown was honored for 13 weeks of perfect attendance.

    Bruno collected fines for late arrivals, missing Rotary pins & early departures and the fines for missed meeting.

    Under announcements, I thanked the members who participated in Fall Fest. The club manned 2 booths - one for Amber Alert & one for cotton candy & popcorn. The Amber Alert booth registered more than 150 youth for the program. Herb Hicks provided all of the equipment for the club's use. He also provided training. We used his large trailer to store the equipment in. Special thanks to Cathy, Lea & Dave for attending special training & setting up & taking down the booth. Mike, Jack Flarety, Dave Brown & I set up the food booth. Hope & I became experts at making cotton candy. Bob Perry's grandson Josh helped for the second year. And although the weather was not perfect, we had a great day!

    This Saturday 8 club members will be cleaning up Thomas Rd. as our club's "Make a Difference Day" project.  The clean up crew will meet at 9 AM at Birch Plain Creek Wildlife Area & then clean up the road.

    Members are asked to sign up to help with the Book Project on Saturday, October 24th. At 9 AM club members & players from the football team with gather at the Board of Education on Flanders Rd. to load a tractor trailer with books which will eventually be shipped to Africa.

    At the club assembly on October 27th, Mike & I will update the membership on the outcome of the District Visioning Program.

    Hope is seeking volunteers for the Thanksgiving Turkey Dinner Fund Raiser with Liberty Bank. Volunteers are needed for Fridays & Saturday beginning on the 16th. The next Senior Citizens Dinner will be held on November 14th.

    Members are being sought to run for the club's Board of Directors.

    Dave Stryker reported that the District increased their grant to the Chikumbuso Project making more than $23,000 available for this international project. Bruno is seeking programs for December.

    Gina introduced our guest speaker Beverly Goulet, Director of Human Services for Norwich. Beverly spoke on the "Challenges Facing Human Services" especially in the area of housing & dealing with homeless persons & families. Her presentation evoked many questions from club members. Bev made it clean that public policy is making it hard for her agency & others to deal with this escalating problem.

I adjourned the meeting at 1:35 PM.
Have a great Rotary week!  John Silsby 

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, October 6th Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the club meeting of October 6th to order at 12:15. We had a good turn out & a guest from Florida. Following the pledge, we sang "America" & recited the 4-Way for our guest & speaker. My invocation focused on the 4-way test guiding the club to help our neighbors to have the opportunities that we have for good health, education & productive careers.

    Following lunch, I recalled the meeting to order at 12:35 due to a long agenda. Our guest Rotarian Paul paid $5 to skip our song to guests. Lian stepped up for Gina & urged members to bring guests who may be members. Cathy followed with the Foundation Thought. She made the members aware of what a $100 donation to RI can achieve in 3rd World Countries.

    Gina & Doug celebrated wedding anniversaries. We sang to Doug! Though absence, Bruno was honored for 13 weeks of service. RB filled in for Bruno & collected fines for late arrival, early departures, missing Rotary pins & missed meetings.

    I shared several announcements with the membership. I reminded them that Saturday was Fall Fest. The club will be operating 2 booths - one for Amber Alert & one for selling popcorn & cotton candy. Due to last minute medical issue, Michelle had to withdraw from overseeing the Amber Alert Booth. Cathy, Lea & Dave stepped up & attended a special training program Tuesday night. Thanks Cathy, Lea & Dave! Get well soon Michelle!

    I sent around sign up sheets for "Make a Difference Day" which is October 17th. Club members will clean up Thomas Rd.

    Members were also asked to sign up for the Book Project on October 24th at 9 AM at the BOE Bldg. on Flanders Rd. Thanks to Paul Kadri, the football team will help to load books from our storage facility to a truck headed for Maryland. Thanks Bob Perry for making this happen!

    I reported that I'll be attending the Council of Presidents' Meeting on October 24th in New Haven. On November 14th, the club will be sponsoring another senior dinner at the Noank School. I announced that the Nominations Committee will be meeting soon to begin seeking nominations for officers & BOD members. Interested members please see me!

    Hope reported that she would have a sign up sheet for the Thanksgiving Dinner Fund Raiser available for next week's meeting.

    I updated the membership on the Visioning Program at the District held for our club on Thursday, October 1st. Hope & John Scott were very helpful in setting up the program. 10 clubs members attended the program. Regrettably more members didn't participate. The members who attended were pleased with the outcome. For 4 hours, we worked with District leaders to develop a 5 year plan for the club. At the club assembly, an update will be presented. Mike has agreed to chair an implementation committee & I agreed to be the hero who will push the ideas in the years ahead.

    I concluded the announcements by reminding foundation board members that a special meeting would be held directly after the club meeting. I have copies of the revised bylaws for the foundation available. Members who'd like a copy should see me.

    Dave Brown hosted the guest speaker. Deb Burdick "The Brain Lady" presented the program which focused on new methods for helping people deal with health & drug issues associated with problems with one's brain. She sparked a lot of interest from club members when she showed how simple stimulation of brain waves can cause major changes in people's personalities & learning & intellectual levels.

I adjourned the meeting at 1:35 PM despite an endless call of questions for the Brain Lady!

Have a great Rotary week.  John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, September 29th Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15. Aside from our guest speaker who is a member of the Colchester Rotary Cob, we had no guests. Following the pledge, we sounded a bit more melodic singing America. I led the members in reciting the 4-way test. My invocation recognized Groton as the submarine Capital of the World and reflected on our desire for improve our community.

    Following lunch, I recalled the meeting to order at 12:40. Lacking guests aside from our guest speaker, I suggested we sing to Darcie Folsom today's presenter. She was pleased.

    Cathy & Lea attended the Foundation Seminar this past Saturday in Deep River. Cathy shared some information and handouts on the foundation with the club. Gina, Hope & I attended the District Membership Seminar last Thursday. Gina continued in her words of encouragement to members! Bring a guest!

    There were no birthdays to celebrate. Robin & I are celebrating our 7th anniversary on Saturday. I asked the group to sing & they did an outstanding job. Gina was honored for 2 years of service to Rotary.

    After Bruno collected for late arrival, missing Rotary pins & late departures, none of members present had missed meetings so I proceeded to announcements.

    I reminded the members that on Thursday the District Club Visioning Process will be conducted at John Scott's office from 5-9 PM. John told us to watch out for his office cats. I thanked Hope & John for helping to make arrangements for the event.

    The club has 3 other events planned for October. On the 10th is Fall Fest, on the 17th is Make a Difference Day (clean up of Thomas Rd.) & on the 24th is the Book Project at the BOE office on Flanders Rd.

    Hope also announced that October 17th will be the opening date for the Thanksgiving Turkey Dinner Fund Raiser which we conduct in conjunction with the Liberty Bank & Lions Club.

    Bruno introduced our guest speaker, Darcie Folsom from the Women's Center of SECT. Darcie shared with the club some of the scary statistics related to domestic & sexual abuse. She also explained some of services provided by the center. The provides both emergency shelter & more long term care facilities. They provide counseling & other support services.

I adjourned the meeting at 1:35.

Have a great Rotary week.  John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, September 22nd Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

I called the meeting to order at 12:15. Though we didn't have any guests, the club turnout was good. After we pledged allegiance to the flag, the group continued by singing its flat version of "America." I led the club in the 4-way test. Then we honored the memory of Eleanor Scarano, who recently passed, with a moment of silence. My invocation focused on the ability that we as Rotarians have to impact world peace. It is our gift to the world...

Following lunch, I recalled the meeting to order at 12:40. Cathy shared her weekly Rotary Foundation Thought with the members. Gina continued her quest to recruit members through the weekly membership minute. She also mentioned that she will be attending the District Membership Seminar with Hope & myself on Thursday in New London.

We honored Nolan Nixon with a more upbeat version on Happy Birthday Nolan. He celebrated his birthday on the 18th. Though Michelle wasn't present, we sang happy anniversary to her. Her anniversary was on the 23rd.

Bob Perry received resounding applause from the club for 41 years of perfect service! He received his 41 year service pin & a 4-way test pen.

Bruno collected fines from club members & good & bad news dollars.

During my club announcements, I emphasized signing up for Fall Fest (October 10th), "Make a Difference Day" (October 17th) & reminded club members that the Visioning Program is a go for October 1st.

Hope has agreed to chair the Liberty Bank Thanksgiving Turkey Drive Fund Raiser. Please help by preparing a basket of items that can be used for the weekly raffle. Hope can be reached by calling 464-2247 ext. 7062.

After the weekly raffle, I called the Club Assembly to order.

I asked for reports from Officers. John reviewed the foundation budget. He provided members with a more detailed copy to review. He also reported on the status of club's budget. We're in the black. John plans to make monthly reports. He also suggested that we add $1 to our weekly lunch fee, which would go to the club's foundation. Doug expressed concern that we overemphasize the RI Foundation & our foundation doesn't receive the support it needs.

RB reported that the Liberty Bank has changed its matching amount for the Thanksgiving Fund Raiser from 50 cents to 33 cents per dollar donation. I announced that the BOD had awarded Sharon Fortune an Honorary Membership. Lea updated the group on membership.

When I asked for Director Reports, Bruno announced that we have quality programs arranged through early December. In Diane's absence, I updated the club on the Dictionary Project & Senior Dinner plans. Gina urged members to bring a guest. Lea provided via email membership recruitment materials. Cathy & I spoke the RI Foundation commitment & Polio Plus program.

All members are invited to BOD Meetings. Our next meeting is planned for October 21st.

I adjourned our meeting at 1:30.
Have a great Rotary week. John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, September 15th Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15. We had Mike Stryker visiting from the New London to hear his Uncle Dirk speak on Third World Countries. For lack of a good vocalist, we moaned another version of "America." After reciting the 4-way test, I gave Tyler Olsen the floor so he could promote the Club's American Red Cross Blood Drive on September 18th.

    My invocation focused on the founding of Rotary by Paul Harris and the 4 areas of service - club, community, vocational and international.

    Following lunch, Dave introduced his son Mike to whom we moaned another welcoming song to. Cathy and Gina did their typical good job of promoting the Rotary Foundation and membership recruitment. I encouraged members to bring a guest to our next meeting.

    No member had a birthday or anniversary. Lian, Lea and I received 13 week perfect attendance pens. Bruno collected fines and good and bad news dollars.

    Dave Stryker reported that the Chikumbuso project didn't receive an RI grant nut another $5,000 has been raised.

    RB gave the club a $3000 donation from the Groton Lions Club for the Liberty Bank Thanksgiving Dinner Fund raiser. Hope has agreed to chair the committee for the fund raiser.

    I Reported that the Board will be meeting on the 16th at 8 AM. We'll be holding a club assembly on the 22nd. On October 17th, the Club will be doing its first road clean-up on Thomas Rd. as part of the District's Make a Difference Day.

    Club members attending the Visioning Process on October 1st have been emailed a survey by the district to help prepare for the project meeting. Lea and Cathy will be attending the Foundation Seminar and Gina, Hope and John plan to attend the District's membership seminar.

    Club members are requested to sign up for the Fall Fest Booths for October 10th. Openings at both booths are available from 3-5 PM.

    Dave Stryker introduced his brother Dirk who spoke on the progress of industrial development in the African Country of Mali. He showed examples of how progress is slowly impacting the development the country. The cell phone has had a significant impact on development. Dirk's presentation was well received and many questions arose from his talk.

At 1:30, I adjourned the meeting. 

Have a great Rotary week.  John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, September 8th Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

Tuesday, September 1st Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15. RB discovered that we didn't have an American Flag to pledge allegiance too so he retrieved one from another room. In Michelle's absence we labored through a flat version of "America." We shared the 4-Way Test with our guests. Following my invocation, we enjoyed a roast beef lunch. Our turn out was very good. It was great to have Glenn Arthur with us. Nolan is home ill with pneumonia.

    I recalled the meeting to order at 12:35 & invited RB to the podium to award the Scarano Award. RB presented this year's Award to Cathy Lathrop for her efforts in chairing the foundation committee & chairing the Relay for Life Refreshment Booth. I followed RB's presentation by awarding Cathy the member of the month award - a home baked tollhouse pie! Cathy was surprised & honored by the club's recognition.

    Aside from our presenter, we had no guests or birthdays or anniversaries to celebrate. I asked Frank to introduce our speaker, a fellow Rotarian, & his wife so the club could sing!

    Following Cathy's Foundation Thought & Gina's Membership Moment, we honored 3 club members who celebrated their initiation date with Rotary today. Bill Anhalt has been a member for 29 years; Jack Flaherty for 19 years; and Mike Falk for 32 years. I honored these members with a 4-Way test pen. Gina was honored for 13 weeks of perfect service.

    Bruno collected for late arrivals, missing Rotary pins, early departures & missed meetings.

    For announcements, Dave Stryker passed around a sign up sheet for members who wanted to be updated on the Chikumbuso Project via e-mail (if you would like to be included for these e-mailings please email Dave Stryker with your email address.)  I passed around a sign up sheet for Fall Fest. We need many volunteers to man both of our booths. I reported to the membership that in conjunction with the American Red Cross we're participating in a Blood Drive on September 18th. Members may sign up next week.

    Bruno is seeking 2 programs for October meetings. I reported that the club will be participating in the Town of Groton's Adopt-a-Highway Program as their project for Make a Difference Day on October 17th. We are looking for a member to chair the Thanksgiving Turkey Dinner Drive Fund Raiser. Liberty Bank & the Lions Club have committed to be partners in the program.

    This week I submitted our list of participants to the District Visioning Process Team. We can still add other members to the list. For members who missed the club assembly, there are copies of the club goals, annual foundation report & club & foundation budgets still available.

    Frank introduced today's speaker - Todd Gipstein & his wife Marcia. Todd is a member of the New London Club. His presentation covered the history of the New London Ledge Lighthouse. A foundation has been formed to raise funds to preserve the lighthouse. Though still in use, it has been poorly maintained for the past 22 years. Todd is preparing a documentary film on Ledge Light which will be previewed at a fund raiser on September 25th celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Ledge Light.

    Following Todd's presentation, I thanked Todd & congratulated Cathy one more time & adjourned the meeting at 1:30.
 

Have a great Rotary week.  John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, August 25th Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15. After our opening pledge to allegiance, Michelle led the club in a resounding version of "America." Though we had no guests to share the 4-way test with, we had a good turn out of members to voice the Rotary motto. I spoke the invocation and thanked our service men and women for making our country secure for us!

    After lunch, I recalled the meeting to order. In addition to our weekly club meeting, I told the membership we'd conduct our annual foundation meeting and hold a club assembly.

    Since we had no guests, Cathy shared with the membership the weekly Foundation Thought. Gina followed her with a Membership Minute. John added that we have been loosing about 1 member per year but want to turn it around with new members joining and retaining the current membership. In the past month, we've identified some potential new members but need to pursue them!

    We were pleased to see Glenn Arthur at the meeting. He updated us on his recovery.

    We celebrated no birthdays and Lori wasn't at the meeting for us to celebrate her anniversary with her.

    Pete, Cathy and Bill were honored for 13 weeks of perfect service.

    Bruno collected fines and good news and bad news dollars. Many members gave a good news dollar to have Glenn back with us!

    For announcements, RB Kent told the membership that we'd be participating with the Liberty Bank and Lions Club in the annual Thanksgiving Dinner Fund Raiser. Lea asked the members to update their club record. I reminded the members of some forthcoming district events. I submitted to the district the list of members who will attending the Visioning Program on October 1st. Bruno has programs planned for September but needs ideas for October. We received thank yous for awarding grants to the Riverview Oddfellows Home, Family Support Center and Riverfront Children's Center.

    Following the club meeting, I called the annual meeting of the club's community foundation to order. Each member received an agenda, annual report and budget for the foundation. Initially I reviewed the budget with the members. There were a few questions on what the budget included. The annul report covered the agencies we provided grants to, scholarship winners and club programs funded by the foundation. At the next assembly, John Scott will update the club on the foundation budget. We currently have $2,000 in the checking account and $55,000 in the investment account. The foundation budget approved by its BOD is $16,586.

    Closing the foundation meeting, I opened the club assembly. All club members were given copies of the club budget, profit and loss statement and goals for the year. In a tight time frame, I reviewed the club budget which was approved by the BOD at $27,373. Then I reviewed the goals. This year the club will be implementing its new bylaws which includes 5 committees versus the 4 areas of service. I strongly urged members to become involved. The committee chairs have major responsibility and will need members to help them.

    After a handful of questions, I adjourned the meeting at 1:30.
 

Have a great Rotary week. John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, August 18th Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM. The turnout was light & Michelle was late so "America" was flat! After welcoming the members & our guest, we pledged allegiance to the Flag. Then the membership recited the 4-way test. My invocation reflected the opportunity we have as Americans to help our neighbors abroad.

    Following lunch, I recalled the meeting to order. Cathy did a splendid job of sharing the Weekly Rotary Foundation Thought. Gina then continued her quest to increase membership through her weekly Membership Minute.

    Lea celebrated her birthday on 8/12. Michelle bought her some leftover Rotary glasses as a BD present. Michelle led the group in a harmonic rendition of Happy Birthday Lea! Hope confessed that we'd missed her BD on 8/15. She decided that it was worth $2 for us not to sign to her.

    Bill Johnson missed his opportunity to sing happy anniversary to him. Glenn Arthur celebrated 1 year of perfect membership. RB filled in as Sergeant of Arms & collected fines. None of the members had missed a meeting so the fine income was low.

    I reported that at next week's club meeting we'd be holding the Annual Meeting of the Foundation followed by a Club Assembly. At the assembly I'd be sharing with the membership the club's goals for the forthcoming year.

    Michelle volunteered to prepare sign up sheets for Fall Fest. The club will be running 2 booths - one for food sales & one for Amber Alert.

    Cathy indicated that she'd be attending the District's Foundation Seminar on September 26th. Gina & I plan to attend the Membership Seminar on September 24th. The club will participating in Make a Difference Day on October 17th.

    I reminded Board members of the monthly meeting on August 19th.

    I had the pleasure of introducing the guest speaker. Brian Kent is a local landscape architect who worked on the Town of Groton's master plans for Parks & Recreation & Sutton Park. Brian also prepared the Town's Trail Master Plan in 2004. Brian reviewed for the club members the development of the Sutton Park Master & many of the concepts recommended for the Town to consider. He shared a power point presentation which showed of many of the recommended new park features.

I adjourned the meeting at 1:30.
Have a great Rotary week.  John Silsby 

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, August 11th Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM. After an emotional pledge, we sang an out of key rendition of America (Michelle didn't arrive soon enough to help us out.). I led the group in the 4-way test allowing our visitors to understand the words that guide us. I offered the invocation which spoke to the good work of the our guests within our community. We enjoyed wedding soup & chicken parmesan for lunch.

    I re-called the meeting to order at 12:40. Our only guests were our grant awardees - Frank introduced Diane Martin; Lea introduced Susan Corrice. Dave Brown introduced Christine Malcom.

    Cathy continued her weekly Foundation Thought and Gina did a great job of encouraging members to recruit new members.

    We celebrated Paul Kadri's birthday though almost missed it. Paul had to remind us! With Michelle's help, we did sing him to him! Dave Brown was in attendance and happy that we reminded him that his anniversary is forthcoming. Richard Abston wasn't in attendance so he missed our melodic reminder!

    We honored 3 members for 13 weeks of perfect attendance - John Scott, RB Kent and Dave Stryker!

    Bruno did his stellar job of collecting fines and good and bad news dollars.

    I reminded the club of upcoming district events. Gina and I plan to attend the District Membership Seminar on September 24th and Cathy plans to participate in the Foundation Seminar in September 26th, All members are invited to attend these district events.

    At the August 25th meeting, we will be holding the annual foundation meeting followed by a club assembly. I plan to share the the goals for the forthcoming year with the membership.

    I also reminded Board members at our monthly meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 19th at 8 AM at the City Muni Bldg.

    I am seeking one more member to sign up for the Club Visioning Workshop on October 1st. Please call me at 536-5686!

    Following our business meeting, we honored 4 community organizations with grants from our foundation. Receiving grants were Bill Memorial Library; Riverfront Children's Center; CT Family Support Center; and Fairview Odd Fellows Home.

    Susan Corrice from Riverfront Children's Center shared with us the programs and services offered by her agency to the community. Diane Martin on behalf of CT Family Support Center presented services provided by the support center. Dave Brown told us about the new program our grant would provide at Fairview Oddfellows Home.

    I adjourned the meeting at 1:25 PM.

Have a great Rotary week.  John Silsby 

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, August 4th Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM. We had a SRO crowd attend the meeting. I led the group in the pledge of allegiance. RB after a week's absence led the club in flat rendition of America. To demonstrate to our guests, the core direction of Rotary, I led the group in the "4-Way Test." Jim Mitchell offered invocation. Our guests we invited to the head of the food line.

    At 12:40 I recalled the meeting to order. Dave Stryker introduced his brother & his significant other. We sang another flat song to them (Michelle wasn't in attendance.). In light of our lack of good harmony, Bill Johnson paid $2 to avoid hearing us sing Happy Birthday & Jim Mitchell did the same for his anniversary. Jim & Marguerite will be cruising the Alaskan Shoreline to celebrate their 41st!

    Gina continued her quest to promote membership with her weekly Member Minutes. Cathy promoted the good work of RI Foundation through her weekly Foundation Thought.

    I promoted RB to Sergeant of Arms in Bruno's absence. He did a yeoman's job of collecting a thick roll of dollars from members who were late, lacking their Rotary pins, leaving early or missing meetings.

    During announcements, I reminded club members that several district events are upcoming. Gina & I plan to attend the Membership Seminar of September 24th. Cathy will be attending the Foundation Seminar on September 26th. Members are strongly urged to attend both of these events. Gina has registration forms for the membership seminar.

    I reported that the club's foundation board would be meeting after the club meeting to approve its annual budget. On August 25th, I will be presenting the Annual Report for the Foundation & presenting the club goals & budget for the upcoming club year. In Bruno's absence, I asked members to help recruit programs for September. Bruno is working on a calendar for the club which will include all special activities. I reminder the members that October 10th is the Annual Fall Fest.

    Next week the club will be honoring our grant recipients for this year. I informed the group that we'd received a thank you letter from the Relay for Life Program. They were very thankful that our club stepped up & helped with the program. $85,000 was raised for find a cure for cancer.

    Dave Stryker reported on the very successful Chikumbuso Social Fund Raiser. Almost $6,000 was raised at the event on July 31st. To date $8,000 has been raised by the 4 local clubs who are sponsoring this international project. Dave was applauded for his efforts in chairing the event!

    RB continued as Sergeant & collected many bucks from the full house as they shared their good news - bad news stories!!

    Gina then introduced Claire Silva, the Executive Director of Bethsaida Housing for Homeless Women. Claire told the membership that her organization operates 2 homes for homeless women. Besides housing homeless women for up to 2 months, they provide a support group for women who have been sexually abused. Her group relies heavily on community support & volunteerism to operate their successful program. Members were invited to volunteer! Gina is on their Board Of Directors.

    After thanking Claire, John adjourned the meeting at 1:30.

Have a great Rotary week.  John Silsby 

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, July 28th Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM. After we pledged our allegiance, we vainly attempted to sing "America". I have replaced Frank Winkler as the sorriest singer in the club. Where is Michelle when I needed her melodic voice! I lead the membership in the 4-way test. My prayer emphasized our the quality students who will honored with scholarships & their parents for doing a great job of rearing them.

    I recalled the meeting to order at 12:40, we had guest Rotarian from the Stonington Club, John Bradshaw. Chris Obrey & Mr. Suams (Dad of scholarship winner Michelle) were introduced & heard another dull version of we're "glad you're here." Cathy followed with her weekly Foundation Thought. Gina plugged membership with her weekly Membership Minute. She announced that 5 new members was the club's goal! I strongly urged members to bring a guest!

    Lee Vincent left before I mentioned his birthday on the 24th. Stan Cardinal missed his anniversary announcement of July 29th. John Scott missed receiving the 4-way test pen for 13 weeks of perfect service.

    I asked Bruno to distributed ballots for the director positions on the Club's Foundation Board. 6 candidates volunteered to run. Bob Perry, Jim Mitchell & Hope Toelken were voted to board positions. I announced that the foundation board would meet following the August 4th club meeting.

    Bruno is still seeking programs. He needs club members to help out. We have programs for most of August but September is wide open!

    I announced some key District program dates: Membership Seminar on September 24th; Foundation Seminar on September 26th; Make a Difference Day on October 17th; Rotary Leadership Institute on October 31st.

    The club will participate with 2 booths at Fall Fest on October 10th (which is a Saturday). Please plan to help out!

    19 Club Members have signed up for the Club Visioning Process! All club members are invited to participate in this event on October 1st!

    Bruno helped photograph the meeting until Dave Stryker arrived. Bruno collected for late arrivals, missing pins & early departures as well as missed meetings. Club members had much good news to report. Several members applauded the students for their excellent scholarship. I reported that Mike had received a new diagnosis & will not new immediate heart surgery.

    After Cathy won the raffle (RB wasn't at the meeting, she donated her winnings to the Chikumbuso project.

    Then I introduced Fred Keith who did a great job of chairing this year's Scholarship Committee. Fred thanked his committee members for helping out. Then he introduced each of the winners & gave an in-depth report on their academic successes. Unfortunately 2 award winners were present. Present were Michelle Saums from Ledyard HS & Jessica Wilson the adult scholarship winner. The students who were unable to attend the meeting were Kelsey Butta from Fitch HS & Paul Mineau from Grasso Tech. Fred reviewed the process used to select the students. We had many candidates apply. Fred also reported to the club that next year's award date will be June 29th, 2010.

    After congratulating the students & Fred & his committee for doing a great job, I adjourned the meeting at 1:25!

Have a great Rotary week.  John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, July 21st Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    I called the club meeting to order at 12:15 and welcomed the district governor Colin Gershon and assistant district governor Catherine Foley to the meeting. Following the pledge, I attempted to lead the club in singing America, which Michelle suggested that I avoid in the future. The members recited the 4-way pledge and I read a prayer which I had written for the meeting.

    After lunch, I recalled the meeting to order at 12:40. Catherine Foley introduced Jillian Mador, an ambassadorial scholar. No other guests attended the meeting. Cathy presented the weekly Rotary Foundation Thought. In Gina's absence, John urged the members to recruit a new member and invited them to attend the district's membership seminar planned for September 24th in New London.

    Ted missed a chance to have the club celebrate his anniversary with a song. Bill Anhalt was applauded for 13 weeks of perfect attendance. Bruno collected many dollars for late arrivals and early departures.

    I informed our members about the district foundation seminar on September 26th and Make a Difference Day on October 17th. At our next meeting on July 28th, the election for foundation board of directors will be held. 6 members have asked to be candidates: Dave Brown, Hope Toelken, Michelle Mencer, Jim Mitchell, Bob Perry and Lee Vincent. 3 directors will be elected by the membership. On July 28th, scholarships will be awarded to area high school students. Please attend!

    I reported that at the July 15th board of directors meeting the board approved a budget and goals for the next year. At the club assembly on August 25th, I plan to share them with the membership.

    Finally, I again encouraged members to sign up for the Visioning Process scheduled for October 1st from 5-9 PM.  All members - new and old - should participate to help the club design a leadership plan for the next 5 years! 18 members have already signed up. Don't be left out!!

    Dave Stryker Reminded the club of the Chikumbuso Social on July 31st. It has been sold out! I informed the group that our club will be presenting a check in excess of $1,000 in support of the project.

    There were a lot of good news reports made!   And, RB won the raffle!

    I introduced Catherine Foley, AG, who then introduced Colin Gershon, DG.  Colin thanked the group for inviting him. He outlined his goals for 2009-10 and promised district support to help the club achieve its goals.  He emphasized membership, public relation, the Rotary Foundation & service projects.  He encouraged the group to seek district managed grants.  He promised well designed seminars for membership, leadership development, public relations and the Rotary Foundation.  He was pleased that our club will be taking part in Arbor Day in 2010.  Colin urged the club to donate $200 for a Colin Camper who would attend the Hole in the Wall Camp.

 I thanked Colin & Catherine & promised the club's support of district activities.

 I adjourned the meeting at 1:30 PM.

Have a great Rotary week.  John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.

Tuesday, July 14th Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    President John called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM on July 14th.

    After the pledge, RB led the group in a responding rendition of "America."

    RB gave into the President and joined him at the head table!

    Following the club members' voicing the 4-Way Test, President John offered the invocation.

    After a roast beef lunch, President recalled the meeting to order at 12:40 PM.

    Aside from the program presenters, no guests or visiting Rotarians attended the meeting.

    Cathy shared the weekly Foundation Thought with the membership.

    Gina in her weekly Membership Minute encouraged members to begin the new year by inviting a prospective member to a club meeting.

    No birthdays were celebrated.

    Ted was absence so we couldn't celebrate his anniversary.

    Hope was honored for 13 weeks of perfect attendance.

    Bruno collected dollars for late arrivals, missing rotary pins and early departures.

    Stan and Paul contributed to the missed meeting pot.

    John made several announcements:

    John and Robin attended the installation dinner for the new District Governor, Colin Gershon. Colin will the guest speaker for the July 21st meeting.

    Upcoming district events include a membership seminar on September 24th, Foundation seminar on September 26th and Make a Difference Day on October 10th. John noted that October 10th is also Fall Fest.

    Board of Directors meeting on July 15th at 8 AM at the City Municipal Bldg. Key agenda items include the club budget and goals for 2009-10.

    At the next club assembly on August 25th, the budget and goals will be presented. There will also be election for the foundation board and the annual meeting of the foundation. Members interested in running for the board should see John.

    President John reported that the club will be participating in the District's Visioning Program which is designed to develop a leadership plan for the club for the next 3-5 years. Hope will help to coordinate the event. It will be held on Thursday, October 1st at John Scott's office. 15 members are needed to participate. 12 have already signed up. Club members are encouraged to sign up!!

    Dave Stryker reported that the Chikumbuso Social on July 31st is almost sold out. See Dave for tickets.

    Many club members reported good news happenings. RB won the raffle!

    Gina introduced the Program presenters: Jerry Sinnamon, President of Literacy Volunteers and Susan Townsley, Executive Director. Jerry told the group about the current status of illiteracy in SECT. Due to the job availability in the area, there is a large number of illiterate persons. Susan told the club how Literacy Volunteers is cooping with the problem and raising funds to support the agency.

    John adjourned the meeting at 1:35 PM.

Tuesday, July 7th Meeting Update

Greetings Fellow Rotarians!

    Outgoing President Mike Riegel called the installation luncheon meeting to order at 12:15 PM.

    Several spouses and the members of the Chikumbuso Committee attended the sit down luncheon.

    After the meal, we celebrated Michelle's Birthday and RB's Anniversary with melodic songs!

    Ted was missing in action so we'll celebrate his anniversary at a later date.

    President Mike briefly reviewed the many success of his 2 years in office.

    Then President Mike installed President-Elect John Silsby and breathed a sigh of relief!

    President John congratulated Past-President Mike for his 2 years of outstanding service to the club.

    Newly installed President John, then invited his officers and board members to the podium.  At this time, he installed his board.  Then the officers passed their pins and the club board for 2009-10 was in place.

    President John, then presented to the club RI President John Kenney's Banner and Logo "The Future of Rotary is in Your Hands!"  RI pins with the logo were distributed to club members.  District Governor pins were also shared.

    President John announced that BOD meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 15th at 8 AM at the Groton City Muni Bldg.

    He also reported that newly installed District 7980 Governor Colin Gershon will be attending the July 21st luncheon meeting.

    Club members had much good news to report! 

    RB won the raffle and contributed to the Polio Plus Fund.

    Dave Stryker passed the hat to continue to raise funds for the Chikumbuso project.

    Then Dave introduced Linda Wilkinson to update the club members on the past year's progress on the Chikumbuso Project.  Linda reported that through the sale of hand bags made from recycled plastic bags, the village is becoming more independent.  As she reported in the past, there are many personal stories which stir the emotions and require much involvement by volunteers and other family members.  President John reported that the club has committed $500 to the project in addition to the weekly passing of the hat.

    Following the program, President John adjourned the meeting.

    President John and Robin traveled to Branford on the evening of July 7th to attend the Annual Installation Dinner for District Governor.

Have a great Rotary week.  John Silsby

And remember, bring a guest and ask them to consider joining Rotary.