MEETING RECAP
Graduation Celebration
Sunday, May 15, 2022 By: Gayle Selden
Graduation Celebration!THE LAKEWOOD KEY
The Friday the 13th meeting of the Rotary Club of Lakewood was called to order by President Jim Rooks.
Invocation was completed by Tom George; the pledge was led by Wendy McGowan.
Rob Erb introduced his set up crew of Tom George, James Osundwa and Kendra Riconosciuto. Rob later paid $20 to add Rick Selden and Bob Martin to that list.
Visiting Rotarians included Heidi Wachter from Clover Park Rotary and Ardel Samdal from Parkland-Spanaway Rotary Club.
Ardel was at our meeting to promote Parkland-Spanaway’s in-person auction being held June 11th at Marymount Event center in Spanaway. The theme is Route 66 and tickets are $60. Head to Parkland-Spanaway Rotary Club (psrotaryclub.org) for more info and to buy tickets.
Guests included Mike McGowan Educational Incentive Award Winner Students’ special guests (Parent, Family Member, Friend). Also in the room were special school district guests: our own Ron Banner, Clover Park School District Superintendent; Kathy Weight, Steilacoom Historical School District Superintendent; Rene McCord, CPHS Assistant Principal (future CPHS Principal); Kevin Rupprecht, Harrison Preparatory School Principal; Karen Mauer-Smith, Lakes High School Principal; and Mike Miller, Steilacoom High School Principal.
Jim Sharp brought frequent guest Ryan McGrady (aka McFauci) from West Pierce Fire and Rescue.
President Rooks then took a moment to talk about last week’s program speaker-- Anastasiia Lemesh-- the Ukrainian international student at Pierce College. Jim passed the hat to have members help with her tuition at Pierce. $1,790 was raised at the meeting.
For the Health and Wellness Report we learned that Jayne Shannon (wife of Ed) had some abdominal surgery as part of a cancer treatment. Ed just finished up cancer treatments and now Jayne begins. Please add them to your prayers and well wishes.
Gayle Selden and Kendra Riconosciuto then spoke about our Virtual Auction taking place next week.
Above: Kendra spoke enthusiastically!
The auction starts Friday the 20th, immediately following our regularly scheduled meeting and heads into Saturday the 21st. As a celebration we are having Sip and See-- a virtual Zoom Party. The Partners are making Charcuterie with a dessert selection and a bottle of wine to enjoy. Those who have purchased will be picking up on the 21st from 1:30-3:30 at Fusion Salon and Spa (7509 Custer Road). If you are unsure about purchase or have questions email Stephanie Wilcox at stephw4680@comcast.net.
Next week, during meeting time we are going to help you navigate the auction website and teach you how to like and share on Facebook and via your email. Bring your tablets, laptops or other portable electronic devices that access the world wide web.
The auction would not be possible without our amazing sponsors: Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, Multicare, Ameriprise Financial, Carl Bronkema/Farmers Insurance, Christopher Kimball Financial Services, Ed Selden Carpet One, James Weinand and Associates, Korsmo Construction, Ledger Square Law, On Point Dispute Resolution, Quinn & Quinn, PS, RMS Financial Services, Reames Realty and many members who have made a financial donation. Thank you all! (Apologies to any sponsors we missed!)
Above: Notice the pen as Gayle served as scribe today and cheerleader for the Auction at the same time.
President Rooks then donned his Fines and Generous Giving hat. Don Daniels watched his oldest granddaughter graduate from WSU. He gave props to the Cougs in the room for outlasting evenings at THE COUG. $100. Rick Selden also watched his Granddaughter graduate from the University of Florida (Go Gators! Said Alum President Rooks!). Veronica Selden graduated Summa Cum Laude (that’s highest honors) with a Zoology degree with a Botany minor. He paid $100. Gayle Selden matched as she was the super proud Aunt. Rick forgot to pay for Grandson Max’s State Discus showing but will grab that next month when he attends his High School Graduation.
Peter Marsh paid $50, as his daughter Abby got an outstanding teacher award at Georgetown University. Don Anderson bought a new boat to waterski with the Grandkids. Andy Phillips paid $100 as he just returned from a Camino de Santiago walk. PP Mark Edgecomb paid $20 as Nicola is currently on that same walk in Spain. Tom George paid an unknown fine as his Granddaughter graduated from the womb 2 weeks ago! Jim Sharp paid $50 in order to stop Don Anderson from telling Ed Trobaugh that the West Pierce ladder truck that saved a Parachutist dangling in a tree at the VA damaged the lawn at the VA golf course. Dwight Williams paid his very first Lakewood Rotary fine of $20 for warm rain in Hawaii.
OUR PROGRAM: THE MIKE MCGOWAN EDUCATIONAL INCENTIVE AWARDS:
Kim Prentice then came to the podium to announce our scholarship recipients. First, she thanked Chuck Hellar, Leanna Albrecht, Donn Irwin and Barb Spriggs for their help on the committee. She also gave background on Mike and Wendy McGowan and their process of helping students achieve their educational goals and helping in the college selection process.
Mike was named Lakewood Rotary’s Rotarian of the Year in 1990 and spearheaded Lakewood Rotary’s partnership with Clover Park School District and fundraising to develop an International Baccalaureate Program in the district. The Mike McGowan Educational Incentive Award recognizes awardees for their hard work, involvement in school and community.
Above: The Honorees with President Jim Rooks
Honorees included:
Ardel was at our meeting to promote Parkland-Spanaway’s in-person auction being held June 11th at Marymount Event center in Spanaway. The theme is Route 66 and tickets are $60. Head to Parkland-Spanaway Rotary Club (psrotaryclub.org) for more info and to buy tickets.
Guests included Mike McGowan Educational Incentive Award Winner Students’ special guests (Parent, Family Member, Friend). Also in the room were special school district guests: our own Ron Banner, Clover Park School District Superintendent; Kathy Weight, Steilacoom Historical School District Superintendent; Rene McCord, CPHS Assistant Principal (future CPHS Principal); Kevin Rupprecht, Harrison Preparatory School Principal; Karen Mauer-Smith, Lakes High School Principal; and Mike Miller, Steilacoom High School Principal.
Jim Sharp brought frequent guest Ryan McGrady (aka McFauci) from West Pierce Fire and Rescue.
President Rooks then took a moment to talk about last week’s program speaker-- Anastasiia Lemesh-- the Ukrainian international student at Pierce College. Jim passed the hat to have members help with her tuition at Pierce. $1,790 was raised at the meeting.
For the Health and Wellness Report we learned that Jayne Shannon (wife of Ed) had some abdominal surgery as part of a cancer treatment. Ed just finished up cancer treatments and now Jayne begins. Please add them to your prayers and well wishes.
Gayle Selden and Kendra Riconosciuto then spoke about our Virtual Auction taking place next week.
Above: Kendra spoke enthusiastically!
The auction starts Friday the 20th, immediately following our regularly scheduled meeting and heads into Saturday the 21st. As a celebration we are having Sip and See-- a virtual Zoom Party. The Partners are making Charcuterie with a dessert selection and a bottle of wine to enjoy. Those who have purchased will be picking up on the 21st from 1:30-3:30 at Fusion Salon and Spa (7509 Custer Road). If you are unsure about purchase or have questions email Stephanie Wilcox at stephw4680@comcast.net.
Next week, during meeting time we are going to help you navigate the auction website and teach you how to like and share on Facebook and via your email. Bring your tablets, laptops or other portable electronic devices that access the world wide web.
The auction would not be possible without our amazing sponsors: Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, Multicare, Ameriprise Financial, Carl Bronkema/Farmers Insurance, Christopher Kimball Financial Services, Ed Selden Carpet One, James Weinand and Associates, Korsmo Construction, Ledger Square Law, On Point Dispute Resolution, Quinn & Quinn, PS, RMS Financial Services, Reames Realty and many members who have made a financial donation. Thank you all! (Apologies to any sponsors we missed!)
Above: Notice the pen as Gayle served as scribe today and cheerleader for the Auction at the same time.
President Rooks then donned his Fines and Generous Giving hat. Don Daniels watched his oldest granddaughter graduate from WSU. He gave props to the Cougs in the room for outlasting evenings at THE COUG. $100. Rick Selden also watched his Granddaughter graduate from the University of Florida (Go Gators! Said Alum President Rooks!). Veronica Selden graduated Summa Cum Laude (that’s highest honors) with a Zoology degree with a Botany minor. He paid $100. Gayle Selden matched as she was the super proud Aunt. Rick forgot to pay for Grandson Max’s State Discus showing but will grab that next month when he attends his High School Graduation.
Peter Marsh paid $50, as his daughter Abby got an outstanding teacher award at Georgetown University. Don Anderson bought a new boat to waterski with the Grandkids. Andy Phillips paid $100 as he just returned from a Camino de Santiago walk. PP Mark Edgecomb paid $20 as Nicola is currently on that same walk in Spain. Tom George paid an unknown fine as his Granddaughter graduated from the womb 2 weeks ago! Jim Sharp paid $50 in order to stop Don Anderson from telling Ed Trobaugh that the West Pierce ladder truck that saved a Parachutist dangling in a tree at the VA damaged the lawn at the VA golf course. Dwight Williams paid his very first Lakewood Rotary fine of $20 for warm rain in Hawaii.
OUR PROGRAM: THE MIKE MCGOWAN EDUCATIONAL INCENTIVE AWARDS:
Kim Prentice then came to the podium to announce our scholarship recipients. First, she thanked Chuck Hellar, Leanna Albrecht, Donn Irwin and Barb Spriggs for their help on the committee. She also gave background on Mike and Wendy McGowan and their process of helping students achieve their educational goals and helping in the college selection process.
Mike was named Lakewood Rotary’s Rotarian of the Year in 1990 and spearheaded Lakewood Rotary’s partnership with Clover Park School District and fundraising to develop an International Baccalaureate Program in the district. The Mike McGowan Educational Incentive Award recognizes awardees for their hard work, involvement in school and community.
Above: The Honorees with President Jim Rooks
Honorees included:
- Karole -Anne Alviso from Harrison Prep
- Nevaeh Canley from Clover Park
- Cannon Combs from Lakes
- Cole Miller from Lakes
- Alex Ruppe from Steilacoom High
- Haley Rusbuldt from Steilacoom High (and Pierce College AA Graduate)(Running Start)
- Shailyn Schaefer from Harrison Prep
- John Simpson from Harrison Prep
- Phoenix Schumacher-Tucker from Harrison Prep
- Kevyn Gordon was unable to attend but he is headed from Lakes to St Martin’s University.
Wendy McGowan then gave us a talk on dreams. She shared stories from Hoda Kotb-- journey for children and following her friend’s advice “When you have a dream you have to say it out loud. Say it to whoever will listen. Speak It! Once it is out there, you will realize you are committed, it is real and you can’t give up on it.” She shared Mike’s story about working in a grocery store and deciding that one day he was going to own one. Eventually he owned nine. He gave a lot of students (and his daughters) this advice: believe in yourself, stay focused, work hard, continue your education and don’t forget to have fun along the way. Wendy also reminded the students that they are not alone, as life is a journey taken together.
A great celebration of so many graduates!
Hank Kerns was the lucky one chosen to pull a chip for the raffle. He ended with $5.
Upcoming Important Rotary Dates:
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
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Ukraine - A Nation in Pain
Sunday, May 8, 2022 By: Donn Irwin
Ukraine – A Nation in Pain“Ukraine was never a part of Russia and never will be”- Anastasia Lemesh
THE LAKEWOOD KEY
Like no other Rotary meeting I’ve ever attended – ever! Your scribe.
12:32 Welcome and Ring the Bell: Welcome fellow Rotarians
Invocation: Chris Kimball
Pledge of Allegiance: Phil Eng
Making the Meeting happen: Rob Erb and his amazing set up staff – James Osundwa, Tom George and Terry Roarke
Recording of fines: John Lowney. Bulletin writer: Donn Irwin
$2 Table and Sgt. at Arms: Greg Horn – not! Jan Gee took over for the PDG. Jan and Mary Marlin helped out with the mics as well.
Foundation Desk: Jim Weinand
Monitoring This President’s Gaffes: No one
Photographer: Phil Eng
Introduction of Visiting Rotarians and Guests of Rotarians: Mary Horn introduced District 5020 Trainer Marnee Obendorf. Mary also introduced her daughter-in-law, Debbie Horn. Scott Adams of Clover Park Rotary introduced himself plus a guest of his – Peter Cook. Duncan’s son Peter will be presenting a program on the Titanic at the Lakewood Historical Society May 10th at 6:00PM and will do a Rotary program for us eventually.
Health and Wellness Report: Eric Warn – Everything is good.
Steve Mazoff: Harrison Preparatory School – Steve asked Wendy McGowan to stand and then let us all know that the International Baccalaureate program at Harrison Prep was started due to the efforts of Mike McGowan and that the school is ranked #1 in Pierce County and 8th in the state. If Mike was involved then, so was Wendy. Steve thanked Wendy for the McGowan’s efforts with the school. He also mentioned the Next Step program that Mike McGowan promoted strongly here at Lakewood Rotary and in which many LR folks mentored high school students who are reportedly now doctors and otherwise successful.
Above: Steve Mazoff gesticulating. Photo credit to Phil Eng
Auction: Gayle Selden was goofing off in Florida so Sally Porter Smith gave us an update on the auction. The auction opens on 5/20 and closes on 5/21. Sally let us know that we really, really need more auction items and that the deadline for procurement has been extended to Wednesday 5/11.
President Jim (PJ) reminded us that the auction is our ONLY fund raiser.
Announcements: PJ - Community work day at South Puget Sound Wildlife area Saturday May 7. Will be installing benches commemorating Ted Wier and Ward Fletcher.
Above: A Walt Richardson photo of some of the partygoers
Steve Enquist came forward and reminded the club at large that nominations are still needed for the Russ Klauser and Bernie Ootkin Awards for Rotarian and non-Rotarian of the Year, respectively. (We Lakewood Key scribes love the word respectively, right Ole?) Steve also recognized Jason Whalen for his second Paul Harris Award. Thank you Jason!
Jan Gee let us all know that District 5020 has raised $260,000 for Ukraine. She also let us know that the District Annual Meeting is Monday. Get in touch with her for more info. Jan also announced with a funny slide of Jason Whalen’s bobblehead that the Installation Dinner will be held at TCGC.
PJ showed us all a screen shot of the announcement for this year’s Rotary Installation Dinner. June 25th at the Country Club. Hawaiian theme, so whip out your best aloha shirts and get them to the cleaners. Cocktails at 5:30, and, for those still capable of eating after an hour and a half of cocktails, dinner will be served at 7:00PM.
Above: The screenshot that Jan Gee sent to the Key
Fines and Generous Giving: Mr. Hammar announced that his birthdays now start with the number 9. Past Pres Chris Kimball made several announcements (it was almost as if he were still Pres) – made Top of the Table again, new car that goes faster than Ole’s and his business has been recognized as the best office in Lakewood.
All this cost him $300, with $200 of it going to the Rotary Foundation. Thank you PP Chris!!
Donna Phillips announced that she took a cruise – and paid dearly for it. Tested positive for covid and had to go through quarantine for 11 days – ugh.
Kim Prentice spent a month in SoCal and Steve Saalfeld paid for announcing that he has a son graduating.
Program: Anastasia Lemesh: International Ukrainian Student at Pierce College: Reflections on what is happening in Ukraine. Our program speaker was introduced by Connie Coleman-Lacadie.
Above: Anastasia Lemesh of Ukraine. Photo by Phil.
NOTE: During her presentation Anastasia showed us photos and slides that you do not see on TV. What we saw and heard from her stunned us all. On no fewer than four occasions Anastasia stated that she had “no words” for what she was reporting to us.
What follows here is an attempt to summarize her talk. Anastasia has been in the USA for 4 months. She is here to get an education.
The Ukrainian flag has two colors -gold for wheat and blue for peace.
In 1994 Ukraine signed the Budapest Memorandum – it is not working now. (If you don’t know what the Memorandum is, do yourself a favor and go to https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Budapest_Memorandum). As part of that agreement, Ukraine gave up all nuclear weaponry.
This war actually started in 2014 in the Donbas region.
At 5:00 a.m. on 2/23/22 Kyiv was bombed.
Anastasia confessed that she really respects President Zelensky although that wasn’t always so. He was a former comedian and she wasn’t impressed. That has changed.
She showed us a picture of an 80-year-old man trying to join the Ukrainian military – to help protect his grandchildren.
The Red Cross reported that “evacuation route prepared by Russian military was full of mines.”
A quote in a newspaper stated that the “humanitarian corridor” prepared by Russia for civilians from Mariupol was full of mines – not even the Nazis did this.
Anastasia was adamant that all of Russia is to blame for this – not just Putin.
Her dad is in the Ukrainian military. She has lost 2 of her best friends (19-year-old male friend shot dead by the Russian army). Another girl friend has had both of her legs blown off and is trying to recover.
Like many young people, she has had plans for her life but doesn’t know what her future is going to be like.
In EYP (European Youth Parliament), she states that Ukraine is not afraid of Russia but fears that the international community will be silent about the war crimes and devastation the Russian soldiers are causing. Anastasia put up a slide that broke out the number of war crimes – astonishing:
There were images/videos of babies and other small children with blood-soaked garments, blood smeared faces and holes on their chests while people were trying to revive them.
Anastasia thanked us and America for the help we have given, and are giving. She also said here is how we can help: Donate money. Sign petitions. Email politicians. Boycott Russian goods.
Throughout this presentation our speaker’s voice trembled at times but she never cracked; she gave us a remarkably coherent and extremely frightening picture of what is happening to her family, her friends, and her country.
She stands about five feet tall and is probably 19 or 20 years old.
A long, heartfelt standing ovation ended her presentation.
President Jim canceled the drawing and called the meeting over because like the rest of us, he was shaken by what he had just witnessed. Stunned silence followed the closing as a room full of Rotarians contemplated what they had just seen and heard.
Below is my “normal nonsense” that I include in most of the Lakewood Keys that I write. Since I had already “researched” the stuff I’ve included it. Read it if you wish.
On this day in history…
Some of today’s noted birthday boys and girls: Willie Mays turns 91, Bob Seger 77 and George Clooney is now 61. Orson Welles, Sigmund Freud and Rudolph Valentino also share this day as their day of birth.
Baseball minutia: On this day back in 1915 Babe Ruth had three hits, including his first major league home run. Oh, and he was also the pitcher for the Boston Red Sox. Ironically, he hit the homer off of Jack Warhop who was pitching for the New York Yankees at the Polo Grounds
In 1982, Gaylord Perry, pitching for the Seattle Mariners in the Kingdom, recorded his 300th major league pitching victory. At the time he was only the 15th big league pitcher to reach that plateau.
878 – Battle of Edington: Alfred the Great and his West Saxon army defeat the Viking army of Guthrum the Old.
5/13-14 District Conference in beautiful and historic Victoria, B.C.
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction (Get Busy and Procure!)
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
1937 – The Hindenburg airship explodes at Lakehurst New Jersey
Recording of fines: John Lowney. Bulletin writer: Donn Irwin
$2 Table and Sgt. at Arms: Greg Horn – not! Jan Gee took over for the PDG. Jan and Mary Marlin helped out with the mics as well.
Foundation Desk: Jim Weinand
Monitoring This President’s Gaffes: No one
Photographer: Phil Eng
Introduction of Visiting Rotarians and Guests of Rotarians: Mary Horn introduced District 5020 Trainer Marnee Obendorf. Mary also introduced her daughter-in-law, Debbie Horn. Scott Adams of Clover Park Rotary introduced himself plus a guest of his – Peter Cook. Duncan’s son Peter will be presenting a program on the Titanic at the Lakewood Historical Society May 10th at 6:00PM and will do a Rotary program for us eventually.
Health and Wellness Report: Eric Warn – Everything is good.
Steve Mazoff: Harrison Preparatory School – Steve asked Wendy McGowan to stand and then let us all know that the International Baccalaureate program at Harrison Prep was started due to the efforts of Mike McGowan and that the school is ranked #1 in Pierce County and 8th in the state. If Mike was involved then, so was Wendy. Steve thanked Wendy for the McGowan’s efforts with the school. He also mentioned the Next Step program that Mike McGowan promoted strongly here at Lakewood Rotary and in which many LR folks mentored high school students who are reportedly now doctors and otherwise successful.
Above: Steve Mazoff gesticulating. Photo credit to Phil Eng
Auction: Gayle Selden was goofing off in Florida so Sally Porter Smith gave us an update on the auction. The auction opens on 5/20 and closes on 5/21. Sally let us know that we really, really need more auction items and that the deadline for procurement has been extended to Wednesday 5/11.
President Jim (PJ) reminded us that the auction is our ONLY fund raiser.
Announcements: PJ - Community work day at South Puget Sound Wildlife area Saturday May 7. Will be installing benches commemorating Ted Wier and Ward Fletcher.
Above: A Walt Richardson photo of some of the partygoers
Steve Enquist came forward and reminded the club at large that nominations are still needed for the Russ Klauser and Bernie Ootkin Awards for Rotarian and non-Rotarian of the Year, respectively. (We Lakewood Key scribes love the word respectively, right Ole?) Steve also recognized Jason Whalen for his second Paul Harris Award. Thank you Jason!
Jan Gee let us all know that District 5020 has raised $260,000 for Ukraine. She also let us know that the District Annual Meeting is Monday. Get in touch with her for more info. Jan also announced with a funny slide of Jason Whalen’s bobblehead that the Installation Dinner will be held at TCGC.
PJ showed us all a screen shot of the announcement for this year’s Rotary Installation Dinner. June 25th at the Country Club. Hawaiian theme, so whip out your best aloha shirts and get them to the cleaners. Cocktails at 5:30, and, for those still capable of eating after an hour and a half of cocktails, dinner will be served at 7:00PM.
Above: The screenshot that Jan Gee sent to the Key
Fines and Generous Giving: Mr. Hammar announced that his birthdays now start with the number 9. Past Pres Chris Kimball made several announcements (it was almost as if he were still Pres) – made Top of the Table again, new car that goes faster than Ole’s and his business has been recognized as the best office in Lakewood.
All this cost him $300, with $200 of it going to the Rotary Foundation. Thank you PP Chris!!
Donna Phillips announced that she took a cruise – and paid dearly for it. Tested positive for covid and had to go through quarantine for 11 days – ugh.
Kim Prentice spent a month in SoCal and Steve Saalfeld paid for announcing that he has a son graduating.
Program: Anastasia Lemesh: International Ukrainian Student at Pierce College: Reflections on what is happening in Ukraine. Our program speaker was introduced by Connie Coleman-Lacadie.
Above: Anastasia Lemesh of Ukraine. Photo by Phil.
NOTE: During her presentation Anastasia showed us photos and slides that you do not see on TV. What we saw and heard from her stunned us all. On no fewer than four occasions Anastasia stated that she had “no words” for what she was reporting to us.
What follows here is an attempt to summarize her talk. Anastasia has been in the USA for 4 months. She is here to get an education.
The Ukrainian flag has two colors -gold for wheat and blue for peace.
In 1994 Ukraine signed the Budapest Memorandum – it is not working now. (If you don’t know what the Memorandum is, do yourself a favor and go to https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Budapest_Memorandum). As part of that agreement, Ukraine gave up all nuclear weaponry.
This war actually started in 2014 in the Donbas region.
At 5:00 a.m. on 2/23/22 Kyiv was bombed.
Anastasia confessed that she really respects President Zelensky although that wasn’t always so. He was a former comedian and she wasn’t impressed. That has changed.
She showed us a picture of an 80-year-old man trying to join the Ukrainian military – to help protect his grandchildren.
The Red Cross reported that “evacuation route prepared by Russian military was full of mines.”
A quote in a newspaper stated that the “humanitarian corridor” prepared by Russia for civilians from Mariupol was full of mines – not even the Nazis did this.
Anastasia was adamant that all of Russia is to blame for this – not just Putin.
Her dad is in the Ukrainian military. She has lost 2 of her best friends (19-year-old male friend shot dead by the Russian army). Another girl friend has had both of her legs blown off and is trying to recover.
Like many young people, she has had plans for her life but doesn’t know what her future is going to be like.
In EYP (European Youth Parliament), she states that Ukraine is not afraid of Russia but fears that the international community will be silent about the war crimes and devastation the Russian soldiers are causing. Anastasia put up a slide that broke out the number of war crimes – astonishing:
- Eleven Russian soldiers raping and then gutting a 9-year-old girl – carving a “Z” into when they were done.
- Russian soldiers raping a young boy in front of the boy’s mother.
- Images of people shot dead in the streets with hands tied behind their backs.
- A burned-out car with burnt bodies lying next to it as Russian soldiers attempt to cover up what they did before they left by burning the evidence.
There were images/videos of babies and other small children with blood-soaked garments, blood smeared faces and holes on their chests while people were trying to revive them.
Anastasia thanked us and America for the help we have given, and are giving. She also said here is how we can help: Donate money. Sign petitions. Email politicians. Boycott Russian goods.
Throughout this presentation our speaker’s voice trembled at times but she never cracked; she gave us a remarkably coherent and extremely frightening picture of what is happening to her family, her friends, and her country.
She stands about five feet tall and is probably 19 or 20 years old.
A long, heartfelt standing ovation ended her presentation.
President Jim canceled the drawing and called the meeting over because like the rest of us, he was shaken by what he had just witnessed. Stunned silence followed the closing as a room full of Rotarians contemplated what they had just seen and heard.
Below is my “normal nonsense” that I include in most of the Lakewood Keys that I write. Since I had already “researched” the stuff I’ve included it. Read it if you wish.
On this day in history…
Some of today’s noted birthday boys and girls: Willie Mays turns 91, Bob Seger 77 and George Clooney is now 61. Orson Welles, Sigmund Freud and Rudolph Valentino also share this day as their day of birth.
Baseball minutia: On this day back in 1915 Babe Ruth had three hits, including his first major league home run. Oh, and he was also the pitcher for the Boston Red Sox. Ironically, he hit the homer off of Jack Warhop who was pitching for the New York Yankees at the Polo Grounds
In 1982, Gaylord Perry, pitching for the Seattle Mariners in the Kingdom, recorded his 300th major league pitching victory. At the time he was only the 15th big league pitcher to reach that plateau.
878 – Battle of Edington: Alfred the Great and his West Saxon army defeat the Viking army of Guthrum the Old.
1527 - Spanish and German Imperial troops sack Rome, ending the Renaissance
1626 – Looking for a real estate bargain? Try this: Dutch colonist Peter Minuit organizes the purchase of Manhattan Island from Native Americans for 60 guilders worth of goods, believed to have been Canarsee Indians of the Lenape
1837 – John Deere creates his steel plough in Grand Detour IL
1840 – The first adhesive postage stamp was, called the Black Penny, was used in Great Britain
1864 – General Sherman begins his march to Atlanta and the sea Upcoming LR events:1626 – Looking for a real estate bargain? Try this: Dutch colonist Peter Minuit organizes the purchase of Manhattan Island from Native Americans for 60 guilders worth of goods, believed to have been Canarsee Indians of the Lenape
1837 – John Deere creates his steel plough in Grand Detour IL
1840 – The first adhesive postage stamp was, called the Black Penny, was used in Great Britain
5/13-14 District Conference in beautiful and historic Victoria, B.C.
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction (Get Busy and Procure!)
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
1941 – Joseph Stalin becomes Premier of the Soviet Union
1944 – KJR AM swaps call signs with KOMO
1987 – Gary Hart denies affair with Donna Rice
1994 – Nelson Mandela confirmed as winner in South Africa’s first post-apartheid election
1944 – KJR AM swaps call signs with KOMO
1987 – Gary Hart denies affair with Donna Rice
1994 – Nelson Mandela confirmed as winner in South Africa’s first post-apartheid election
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Wild Game Dinner Upgraded
Saturday, April 30, 2022 By: Gregory J. Rediske
The Wild Game Dinner: UpgradedTHE LAKEWOOD KEY for April 29, 2022
It was November 13, 1970, and Lakewood Rotarians (all men then) decided to volunteer their fish catch, shot ducks and deer, and whatever they happened to run over to serve up a “Wild Game Dinner”. The only thing wilder than the game was the group of men being….well, wild. Booze does that sometimes. That first event raised a negative $270, as it was intended as a social event. Subsequent years raised money because they figured they should. It became the Sportsman’s Dinner in 1995 with the admission of women (and some class), subsequently becoming the Sportsman’s Dinner and Auction, and now, The Lakewood Rotary Auction.
Above: The fundraiser through the years.
As you can see from the graph, it has seen a dramatic increase in dollar production. The question before us all right now is: will this continue?!? To paraphrase Smokey the Bear, “Only YOU can make it happen!”
Above: Smokey wants you to procure!
But more on this urgent need later. With 60 people in the house or online, President Jim rose with the conviction of a man in charge, our fearless leader, and declared the meeting open at 12:28 p.m. on Friday, April 29, 2022, aka Pot Roast Day at Lakewood Rotary. He so proclaimed the meeting open early to make up for his being two minutes late last week, which puts him back to even for the year for those keeping track. Thanks went out to:
One visiting Rotarian from Clover Park, Scott Adams, and one guest, former (and hopefully future) member Jon Calder (retiring in two weeks!). Eric Warn was called upon for a Wellness Report, which was all good, but we nearly had an injury when uber-competitive Greg Horn tried to beat Mary Marlin to Eric with the mic and threw it wildly into the rapidly dispersing crowd. No serious injuries were reported to have occurred.
Announcements:
--Steve Enquist presented a check for $1000 from Community Concerns to Scott Adams of West Pierce Cares. Scott thanked us for the money and also for previous support for the AED defibrillator program (one is at Ft. Steilacoom Park now).
--Bill Potter asked for Rotarian workers to help with the project at the South Sound Wildlife Refuge on Phillips Road on Saturday, May 7. This is a great time to involve your children and grandchildren in community service!
THE AUCTION:
--Anne Enquist and Eric Quinn rallied the crowd to support the aforementioned Lakewood Rotary Auction on May 21, online only. They said PLEASE….
1. Procure!! Deadline is May 7. One week away. Checks welcome
2. Sponsor! $500 to $5000. $5000 gets you naming rights. A bargain, considering what T-Mobile paid for the Mariners’ ballpark ($87.5 million).
3. Hold an Auction Party! Ideally, this would begin with the Sip and See event. We MUST get non-Rotarians involved in the auction bidding and the Sip and See fun. Eric will be the MC for Sip and See, which costs a mere $50/person for wine and a charcuterie plate. Deadline for sign up on Sip and See is May 14. Sign up for this, and auction registration, at www.lakewoodrotary.com, “Get Involved” (at the top of the screen)
Above: Mary Marlin modeling the Diamond Designs gems
Photo: By Walt Richardson
Meanwhile, Mary Marlin was modeling a $1600 bracelet while Connie Coleman-Lacadie modeled a fancy scarf made by Rachel Mazoff (it’s a really fancy scarf….maybe they called it an ascot, like the subject guy wore in “You’re So Vain”? Good reporting is hard to find).
Remember what Smokey the Bear said, “No ones goes there anymore, it’s too crowded”. Oh wait, that was Yogi Berra. Smokey said, sort of, “Only YOU can make it happen!” We are here to serve the community, and that is done by our financial support. Please help. We take checks, cash, money orders, credit cards, bitcoin…..Just help.
--Speaking of credit cards, John Lowney took us on the long, lonely road of our online credit card woes. But fear not! John has persevered, and the system is now active. Give money to Lakewood Rotary to your heart’s content. Go to lakewoodrotary.com, “Make a Payment”.
--Steve Saalfeld announced that 828 Consulting is looking for volunteers to help Clover Park school students with career counseling (using your field of endeavor). Also, he is riding The Courage, and needs our financial support. And here is the link if you want to support Steve’s ride: https://support.multicare.org/site/TR/Courage/General?px=1153134&pg=personal&fr_id=1290
(Hopefullly, that will work.)
--Barb Spriggs is offering a Poker Run for the Auction, on American Lake on August 13. $50 buy-in with a new kayak as first prize, a life vest for second, and a $50 gift card for third.
Generous Giving:
Joe Quinn won ANOTHER gold medal, and he showed it off hanging over his singlet (“put the jacket back on!” was the cry….) $50
Above: Eric Quinn: “You are so embarrassing.”
Jim Weinand bought a new car, perhaps in honor of his upcoming 45th wedding anniversary. Or maybe because it is now after April 15. He gave a bunch, but unknown to the writer.
David Swindale was only standing to go work on the speaker’s Powerpoint, but he was instead forced into a fine, so he came up with a camping trip near Pt. Townsend, $20. The lesson: be careful when you stand up.
Program:
Former mayor Don Anderson introduced our own Lakewood Rotarian, Police Chief Mike Zaro. (Did you know that Mike was terribly disappointed to not be at the end of our roster, as he normally is for such lists? Yes, Bob Zawilski beat him by one “w”). Mike is a graduate of WSU, where like most Cougars he developed some expertise on the mixing of hops and barley. He joined the Pierce County Sheriffs in 1994, moving to Lakewood with Larry Saunders in 2004. He went from detective to Sgt to Police Chief (2015). He has attended the FBI academy as well as receiving his Master of Administrative Leadership. He has two daughters, the last of whom is graduating from WSU shortly, prompting a $100 self-imposed fine in honor of no more tuition payments. Mike noted that crime in Lakewood has been on a more-or-less steep and steady decline since becoming a city but has increased during the pandemic. Part of this has to do with the new restrictions on police procedure imposed by the State Legislature. Some of the overreach (mostly mental health procedures) was fixed in this last session, but much more needs to be accomplished. Property crimes have been the driver (as usual) for the increases in the last couple of years, though last quarter showed a significant drop. Vehicle theft has been way up as well, with Ford trucks joining the perennial favorite, Honda sedans. He said the property crime and car theft increases are seen statewide. After the legislative changes, a flood of retirements and resignations occurred, 20 in all between June and December of 2021, out of a total force of 90. It takes about a year to get a new hire trained and ready for work, but they have a great new class coming on board. The new recruits have energized the department in many ways. Despite the recent crime increases, Mike said that Lakewood remains “a safe community.” In the question period he noted that being homeless is not a crime. There are some restrictions on public camping, but private property camping becomes a police matter only when the property owner complains. Our homeless problem is dwarfed by Parkland and Tacoma in this area. The law changes, including the high threshold for “probable cause”, came about because legislators didn’t consult with law enforcement before enacting these laws. They are listening more now. The pursuit restrictions are the biggest source of frustration for his officers. After the presentation, he noted that they are in the middle of a 90-day test of body cameras (they have about 15 being tested now, so far so good. They have cameras on all the cars as well). Great presentation!
Above: Chief Mike Zaro
Drawing: Hank Kerns had #7315, which sadly returned a mere $5 with the white chip selection.
From the Ole Archives, with slight changes:
What is a party game played by two Swedes? One Swede goes into a box and the other tries to guess which Swede it is.
And: What does it say on the bottom of a Swedish beer bottle? Open at other end.
Upcoming LR events:
5/13-14 District Conference in beautiful and historic Victoria, B.C.
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction (Get Busy and Procure!)
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
As you can see from the graph, it has seen a dramatic increase in dollar production. The question before us all right now is: will this continue?!? To paraphrase Smokey the Bear, “Only YOU can make it happen!”
Above: Smokey wants you to procure!
But more on this urgent need later. With 60 people in the house or online, President Jim rose with the conviction of a man in charge, our fearless leader, and declared the meeting open at 12:28 p.m. on Friday, April 29, 2022, aka Pot Roast Day at Lakewood Rotary. He so proclaimed the meeting open early to make up for his being two minutes late last week, which puts him back to even for the year for those keeping track. Thanks went out to:
- Auction workers and pantry food takers: Rose Stevens, Connie Coleman-Lacadie and Veronica Bronkema
- Paul Harris table: Jim Weinand
- Sgt At Arms and ticket seller: Barlow Buescher (with assistance from Greg Horn and Mary Marlin on the microphones)
- Photographer: Walt Richardson
- Puffins: James Osundwa, Connie Coleman-Lacadie, Veronica Bronkema, Hank Kerns, Dwight Williams
- Set up: Rob Erb, David Swindale, Terry Roarke, James Osundwa, Mary Marlin, Greg Horn
- Invocation: Bob Peterson and The Pledge: Mark Blanchard
One visiting Rotarian from Clover Park, Scott Adams, and one guest, former (and hopefully future) member Jon Calder (retiring in two weeks!). Eric Warn was called upon for a Wellness Report, which was all good, but we nearly had an injury when uber-competitive Greg Horn tried to beat Mary Marlin to Eric with the mic and threw it wildly into the rapidly dispersing crowd. No serious injuries were reported to have occurred.
Announcements:
--Steve Enquist presented a check for $1000 from Community Concerns to Scott Adams of West Pierce Cares. Scott thanked us for the money and also for previous support for the AED defibrillator program (one is at Ft. Steilacoom Park now).
--Bill Potter asked for Rotarian workers to help with the project at the South Sound Wildlife Refuge on Phillips Road on Saturday, May 7. This is a great time to involve your children and grandchildren in community service!
THE AUCTION:
--Anne Enquist and Eric Quinn rallied the crowd to support the aforementioned Lakewood Rotary Auction on May 21, online only. They said PLEASE….
1. Procure!! Deadline is May 7. One week away. Checks welcome
2. Sponsor! $500 to $5000. $5000 gets you naming rights. A bargain, considering what T-Mobile paid for the Mariners’ ballpark ($87.5 million).
3. Hold an Auction Party! Ideally, this would begin with the Sip and See event. We MUST get non-Rotarians involved in the auction bidding and the Sip and See fun. Eric will be the MC for Sip and See, which costs a mere $50/person for wine and a charcuterie plate. Deadline for sign up on Sip and See is May 14. Sign up for this, and auction registration, at www.lakewoodrotary.com, “Get Involved” (at the top of the screen)
Above: Mary Marlin modeling the Diamond Designs gems
Photo: By Walt Richardson
Meanwhile, Mary Marlin was modeling a $1600 bracelet while Connie Coleman-Lacadie modeled a fancy scarf made by Rachel Mazoff (it’s a really fancy scarf….maybe they called it an ascot, like the subject guy wore in “You’re So Vain”? Good reporting is hard to find).
Remember what Smokey the Bear said, “No ones goes there anymore, it’s too crowded”. Oh wait, that was Yogi Berra. Smokey said, sort of, “Only YOU can make it happen!” We are here to serve the community, and that is done by our financial support. Please help. We take checks, cash, money orders, credit cards, bitcoin…..Just help.
--Speaking of credit cards, John Lowney took us on the long, lonely road of our online credit card woes. But fear not! John has persevered, and the system is now active. Give money to Lakewood Rotary to your heart’s content. Go to lakewoodrotary.com, “Make a Payment”.
--Steve Saalfeld announced that 828 Consulting is looking for volunteers to help Clover Park school students with career counseling (using your field of endeavor). Also, he is riding The Courage, and needs our financial support. And here is the link if you want to support Steve’s ride: https://support.multicare.org/site/TR/Courage/General?px=1153134&pg=personal&fr_id=1290
(Hopefullly, that will work.)
--Barb Spriggs is offering a Poker Run for the Auction, on American Lake on August 13. $50 buy-in with a new kayak as first prize, a life vest for second, and a $50 gift card for third.
Generous Giving:
Joe Quinn won ANOTHER gold medal, and he showed it off hanging over his singlet (“put the jacket back on!” was the cry….) $50
Above: Eric Quinn: “You are so embarrassing.”
Jim Weinand bought a new car, perhaps in honor of his upcoming 45th wedding anniversary. Or maybe because it is now after April 15. He gave a bunch, but unknown to the writer.
David Swindale was only standing to go work on the speaker’s Powerpoint, but he was instead forced into a fine, so he came up with a camping trip near Pt. Townsend, $20. The lesson: be careful when you stand up.
Program:
Former mayor Don Anderson introduced our own Lakewood Rotarian, Police Chief Mike Zaro. (Did you know that Mike was terribly disappointed to not be at the end of our roster, as he normally is for such lists? Yes, Bob Zawilski beat him by one “w”). Mike is a graduate of WSU, where like most Cougars he developed some expertise on the mixing of hops and barley. He joined the Pierce County Sheriffs in 1994, moving to Lakewood with Larry Saunders in 2004. He went from detective to Sgt to Police Chief (2015). He has attended the FBI academy as well as receiving his Master of Administrative Leadership. He has two daughters, the last of whom is graduating from WSU shortly, prompting a $100 self-imposed fine in honor of no more tuition payments. Mike noted that crime in Lakewood has been on a more-or-less steep and steady decline since becoming a city but has increased during the pandemic. Part of this has to do with the new restrictions on police procedure imposed by the State Legislature. Some of the overreach (mostly mental health procedures) was fixed in this last session, but much more needs to be accomplished. Property crimes have been the driver (as usual) for the increases in the last couple of years, though last quarter showed a significant drop. Vehicle theft has been way up as well, with Ford trucks joining the perennial favorite, Honda sedans. He said the property crime and car theft increases are seen statewide. After the legislative changes, a flood of retirements and resignations occurred, 20 in all between June and December of 2021, out of a total force of 90. It takes about a year to get a new hire trained and ready for work, but they have a great new class coming on board. The new recruits have energized the department in many ways. Despite the recent crime increases, Mike said that Lakewood remains “a safe community.” In the question period he noted that being homeless is not a crime. There are some restrictions on public camping, but private property camping becomes a police matter only when the property owner complains. Our homeless problem is dwarfed by Parkland and Tacoma in this area. The law changes, including the high threshold for “probable cause”, came about because legislators didn’t consult with law enforcement before enacting these laws. They are listening more now. The pursuit restrictions are the biggest source of frustration for his officers. After the presentation, he noted that they are in the middle of a 90-day test of body cameras (they have about 15 being tested now, so far so good. They have cameras on all the cars as well). Great presentation!
Above: Chief Mike Zaro
Drawing: Hank Kerns had #7315, which sadly returned a mere $5 with the white chip selection.
From the Ole Archives, with slight changes:
What is a party game played by two Swedes? One Swede goes into a box and the other tries to guess which Swede it is.
And: What does it say on the bottom of a Swedish beer bottle? Open at other end.
Upcoming LR events:
5/13-14 District Conference in beautiful and historic Victoria, B.C.
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction (Get Busy and Procure!)
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
Read MoreShare
Earth Day
Sunday, April 24, 2022 By: Mary Marlin
Welcome to Earth DayTHE LAKEWOOD KEY
For April 22, 2022
Welcome to Earth Day…and what better place to celebrate than at Tacoma Country
and Golf Club with intelligent, fun-loving humans who treasure every Friday for a get-together to share the good. Yes, the view of the beautiful lake, delicious food and energetic members all made the day very special. Jim Rooks, our esteemed president, called the meeting to order two minutes after 1:30 p.m (i.e. two minutes late!) and the fun meeting began (I was told to mention that by a person who shall not be named).
The invocation was given by Scott Buser. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by a loyal member. Rob Erb with his great staff consisting of James Osundwa, Tom George, Dave Swindale, and maybe others I forgot, busily got things organized before the meeting began. John Lowney was smiling due to his opportunity to receive fines… from others. Chuck Hellar was Sergeant-at-Arms. Jim Weinand served at the Foundation Desk Mary Marlin wrote numerous notes for the Bulletin. Walt Richardson was our talented photographer and Greg Rediske monitored the President’s gaffes. Our sole guest today was Pat Price, Bill’s wife. Julie White was given a warm welcome back to the Club. And the Puffins were recognized: Rachel Mazoff, Steve Saalfeld, Jamie Simons, James Osundwa, Wendy McGowan, Angela Connelly, Connie Coleman-Lacadie, Anthony Veliz, Bob Martin, Andy Phillips, Dwight Williams, Linda McDermott, and Veronica Bronkema.
Eric Warn had a difficult health report. It was sad to hear that Vaughn Hoffman has passed away. Gayle Selden worked often with Vaughn and said he was a hard worker. When Larry Saunders passed away, Vaughn stepped in immediately to help with the auction. He was President of Federal Way Rotary and a risk management expert, according to Gayle. The President then suggested a moment of silence to honor Vaughn and his dedication to the Club.
ANNOUNCEMENTS: Jason Whalen then mentioned the opportunity to participate in Parks Appreciation Day by volunteering time and maybe shovels to “spiff up” Fort Steilacoom Park and refresh the pavilion that so many in Rotary helped make happen. So many events have been held there, from weddings to concerts. Having it ready for summer events will make it even more special. The day to come and help is….past…but guess what, here is a write up about it, submitted to the Lakewood Key by Greg Rediske and a photo of the participants submitted to us by Jim Rooks. Teamwork all around.
Above: The work crew did their thing on April 23rd.
A roving reporter filed this Saturday report: A stalwart crew of Lakewood Rotarians followed Foreman Don Daniels’ every wish and desire (command?) while beautifying the pavilion at Fort Steilacoom Park on Saturday. Besides Boss Daniels, others working included Jason Whalen, Mary Moss, Jim Rooks, Steve Mazoff, Gred Rediske, Dave Coleman, and Gordy Quick. Dr. Quick kept the Lakewood Rotary tradition of having at least one 90-year old at the work party, ably following the late Richard Simmons. Five South Tacoma Rotarians also joined in the effort. Thanks to all who attended!
AUCTION PREP: Gayle Selden mentioned that procurement forms filled out and ready are needed for the auction which is getting closer and closer to happening in May. All forms need to be in within two weeks. Let’s make this auction the best ever.
COMMUNITY CONCERNS: Steve Enquist then requested club approval for a $2500 grant for the Family Renewal Shelter and also said the committee approved a $1000 donation to West Pierce Cares. The Bylaws require gifts of $2000 or more to be approved by the general membership so a vote was held on the FRS donation and it was approved unanimously.
FOUNDATION: Steve then presented, while he was up at the podium anyway, a 4th Paul Harris award to Donn Irwin and an 8th Paul Harris to Bill Price.
Puffin Connie Coleman-Lacadie received her blue badge at the bargain price of $5.
ROTARIAN OF THE YEAR: Steve also asked the members to think of a Rotarian deserving of the Rotarian of the Year award; that needs to be decided soon.
GENEROUS GIVING etc.: President Jim then warned of possible fines that might be “awarded.” Eric Quinn outed his own father! Okay, he mentioned that Joe Quinn won one or more gold medals at the National Masters Weightlifting Championships in Salt Lake City. Well done, Joe, now pay a big fine. At least $50.
Eric then showed us how to register for the online auction. Seemed a little tricky, but Gayle assured us, “It will work perfectly for you.” She also encouraged folks to sign up for the Sip and See--an opportunity to sip wine and see what is offered at the auction. Fun coming soon!
Jan Gee donated something for going to Palm Springs last week. Jim Bisceglia donated $50 for moving from Old Town to a condo in Ruston. Steve Enquist generously donated $50 in honor of Vaughn Hoffman. Oh, and we noted that the Klan opportunity to travel to Puerto Rico on the invitation sheet for the auction might really be better with the Clan! Duly noted. Anne Enquist and several others have been working hard on eight (count ‘em…8!) Little Free Pantries. Apparently, four are doing great and are self-sustaining, but four others need help with food supplies. The board has decided to set up a donation time on the fourth Friday of every month, for members to bring items such as soap and toothpaste, and food such as tuna, soup, pasta, or maybe something else that is healthy!
Mary Horn will be sending out a new survey for input about our Strategic Planning effort. Over 50% of the members have.answered her first survey, so information is definitely being shared. Getting new members and being inclusive are consistent goals for many clubs. One way to participate is to volunteer to help with the Special Olympics at Mt. Tahoma and/or in Federal Way. Let Jim Rooks know if you’d like to volunteer.
Above: Our Speaker, Paul Bucich
Photo by Walt Richardson
THE PROGRAM: Our speaker today was Paul Bucich, the Lakewood Public Works Director. Jason Whalen introduced him by asking the audience if they were annoyed by drones or cursed while driving roundabouts. At that point, our speaker headed for the door! Fortunately, he had a smile on his face. As he re-entered the room, Jason gave us some history of Paul’s exceptional work and the cities he is very familiar with. Paul has worked in Tacoma, Federal Way, Bellevue, Lake Tapps, and he now lives and works in Lakewood. He is the Public Works Engineering Director/Transportation in the City of Lakewood. He has supervised a myriad of projects. Here are a few of them that he and his team are working on currently or have made better: roads, signs, drainage issues, pavement repairs, chip seal program, guardrail repairs, right of way permits, traffic control, street light repairs, signal repairs, school zone issues, speed issues, speed bumps, roundabouts, bike lanes, emergency vehicle access to transportation safely, road design, bridge replacement, and I’m sure the list is even longer.
Paul then began to get more specific about the issues facing Lakewood. His sense of humor helps him to navigate the many issues he encounters every day. He mentioned that “I build. Someone else makes it look pretty.” His biggest issue is dealing with flooding issues that could compromise I-5. The issue has many people concerned and they are addressing it. He mentioned several specific areas of concern including Gravelly Lake Drive issues, grants needed, design projects, etc. He mentioned that the city received thousands of dollars for the Complete Street Award. For Lakewood residents, it was helpful to know there is somebody listening and attending to these issues. After a few questions were answered, Paul was bid farewell to warm applause.
THE DRAWING: Ron Irwin won the lofty sum of $5.
Upcoming LR events:
5/13-14 District Conference in beautiful and historic Victoria, B.C.
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction (Get Busy and Procure!)
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
Eric Warn had a difficult health report. It was sad to hear that Vaughn Hoffman has passed away. Gayle Selden worked often with Vaughn and said he was a hard worker. When Larry Saunders passed away, Vaughn stepped in immediately to help with the auction. He was President of Federal Way Rotary and a risk management expert, according to Gayle. The President then suggested a moment of silence to honor Vaughn and his dedication to the Club.
ANNOUNCEMENTS: Jason Whalen then mentioned the opportunity to participate in Parks Appreciation Day by volunteering time and maybe shovels to “spiff up” Fort Steilacoom Park and refresh the pavilion that so many in Rotary helped make happen. So many events have been held there, from weddings to concerts. Having it ready for summer events will make it even more special. The day to come and help is….past…but guess what, here is a write up about it, submitted to the Lakewood Key by Greg Rediske and a photo of the participants submitted to us by Jim Rooks. Teamwork all around.
Above: The work crew did their thing on April 23rd.
A roving reporter filed this Saturday report: A stalwart crew of Lakewood Rotarians followed Foreman Don Daniels’ every wish and desire (command?) while beautifying the pavilion at Fort Steilacoom Park on Saturday. Besides Boss Daniels, others working included Jason Whalen, Mary Moss, Jim Rooks, Steve Mazoff, Gred Rediske, Dave Coleman, and Gordy Quick. Dr. Quick kept the Lakewood Rotary tradition of having at least one 90-year old at the work party, ably following the late Richard Simmons. Five South Tacoma Rotarians also joined in the effort. Thanks to all who attended!
AUCTION PREP: Gayle Selden mentioned that procurement forms filled out and ready are needed for the auction which is getting closer and closer to happening in May. All forms need to be in within two weeks. Let’s make this auction the best ever.
COMMUNITY CONCERNS: Steve Enquist then requested club approval for a $2500 grant for the Family Renewal Shelter and also said the committee approved a $1000 donation to West Pierce Cares. The Bylaws require gifts of $2000 or more to be approved by the general membership so a vote was held on the FRS donation and it was approved unanimously.
FOUNDATION: Steve then presented, while he was up at the podium anyway, a 4th Paul Harris award to Donn Irwin and an 8th Paul Harris to Bill Price.
Puffin Connie Coleman-Lacadie received her blue badge at the bargain price of $5.
ROTARIAN OF THE YEAR: Steve also asked the members to think of a Rotarian deserving of the Rotarian of the Year award; that needs to be decided soon.
GENEROUS GIVING etc.: President Jim then warned of possible fines that might be “awarded.” Eric Quinn outed his own father! Okay, he mentioned that Joe Quinn won one or more gold medals at the National Masters Weightlifting Championships in Salt Lake City. Well done, Joe, now pay a big fine. At least $50.
Eric then showed us how to register for the online auction. Seemed a little tricky, but Gayle assured us, “It will work perfectly for you.” She also encouraged folks to sign up for the Sip and See--an opportunity to sip wine and see what is offered at the auction. Fun coming soon!
Jan Gee donated something for going to Palm Springs last week. Jim Bisceglia donated $50 for moving from Old Town to a condo in Ruston. Steve Enquist generously donated $50 in honor of Vaughn Hoffman. Oh, and we noted that the Klan opportunity to travel to Puerto Rico on the invitation sheet for the auction might really be better with the Clan! Duly noted. Anne Enquist and several others have been working hard on eight (count ‘em…8!) Little Free Pantries. Apparently, four are doing great and are self-sustaining, but four others need help with food supplies. The board has decided to set up a donation time on the fourth Friday of every month, for members to bring items such as soap and toothpaste, and food such as tuna, soup, pasta, or maybe something else that is healthy!
Mary Horn will be sending out a new survey for input about our Strategic Planning effort. Over 50% of the members have.answered her first survey, so information is definitely being shared. Getting new members and being inclusive are consistent goals for many clubs. One way to participate is to volunteer to help with the Special Olympics at Mt. Tahoma and/or in Federal Way. Let Jim Rooks know if you’d like to volunteer.
Above: Our Speaker, Paul Bucich
Photo by Walt Richardson
THE PROGRAM: Our speaker today was Paul Bucich, the Lakewood Public Works Director. Jason Whalen introduced him by asking the audience if they were annoyed by drones or cursed while driving roundabouts. At that point, our speaker headed for the door! Fortunately, he had a smile on his face. As he re-entered the room, Jason gave us some history of Paul’s exceptional work and the cities he is very familiar with. Paul has worked in Tacoma, Federal Way, Bellevue, Lake Tapps, and he now lives and works in Lakewood. He is the Public Works Engineering Director/Transportation in the City of Lakewood. He has supervised a myriad of projects. Here are a few of them that he and his team are working on currently or have made better: roads, signs, drainage issues, pavement repairs, chip seal program, guardrail repairs, right of way permits, traffic control, street light repairs, signal repairs, school zone issues, speed issues, speed bumps, roundabouts, bike lanes, emergency vehicle access to transportation safely, road design, bridge replacement, and I’m sure the list is even longer.
Paul then began to get more specific about the issues facing Lakewood. His sense of humor helps him to navigate the many issues he encounters every day. He mentioned that “I build. Someone else makes it look pretty.” His biggest issue is dealing with flooding issues that could compromise I-5. The issue has many people concerned and they are addressing it. He mentioned several specific areas of concern including Gravelly Lake Drive issues, grants needed, design projects, etc. He mentioned that the city received thousands of dollars for the Complete Street Award. For Lakewood residents, it was helpful to know there is somebody listening and attending to these issues. After a few questions were answered, Paul was bid farewell to warm applause.
THE DRAWING: Ron Irwin won the lofty sum of $5.
Upcoming LR events:
5/13-14 District Conference in beautiful and historic Victoria, B.C.
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction (Get Busy and Procure!)
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
Read MoreShare
A Good Friday
Monday, April 18, 2022 By: Paula T. Olson
A Good Friday at Lakewood RotaryTHE LAKEWOOD KEY
By Paula T. Olson
This meeting started on a very auspicious and religious day. For Christians, it was Good Friday, the day of the passion and death of Jesus. For Jewish people, it was nearly the beginning of Passover, starting at sunset. For Muslim people, it was the middle of Ramadan. And for the CPAs and accountants amongst us, it was the old Tax Day. Somehow they managed to get three more days to get those returns in. And their clients are most grateful.
So the ringing of the bell by Pres. Rooks started this meeting on time. Well, according to my watch it was 97 seconds late but I’m sure my watch was wrong. Andrew Kruse led us in a nice invocation and Jim Bisceglia led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Pres. Jim acknowledged the usual setup crew led by Rob Erb who was also getting trained to operate the zoom machine. He was assisted by James Osundwa, Terry Roarke, Rick Selden, and Gayle Selden. Recording the fines was the usual John Lowney, writing the bulletin was yours truly Paula Olson, Terry Roarke manned the $2 table and functioned as Sergeant at Arms, Mary Marlin womaned the Foundation desk, Walt Richardson was the official photographer, and with the easiest job of all, Greg Rediske, monitoring the presidential gaffes.
Visiting Rotarians included our speaker, Becky Newton, President-Elect of the Clover Park Rotary Club. Guests were Bill Price’s wife, Pat, Stephanie Wilcox, President of the Partners, and Angela Connelly introduced her guests as Amy Fallen and Terry Scott. All were welcomed. Puffins in attendance (and since my neck was not swiveling well, I might miss one or two of you – my apologies!) were Angela Connelly, James Osundwa, Connie Coleman-Lacadie, and Linda McDermott.
Eric Warn did our health and wellness report and thanked all for the glasses, especially Jim and Connie. John Warner was present with us on zoom (welcome back, John! So glad to see you up and about) and Vaughn Hoffman is having issues so send him good vibes. Pres Jim proudly announced that he will bring in two pairs of glasses because he had more successful surgery on his eyes, giving him amazing vision and no need for glasses. (You know, those doctors give us lawyers a hard time when they treat us because they are afraid we’ll sue them. Can you imagine how a doctor treating a doctor must feel? I know, just a random thought.) But we are glad Jim is free from the tyranny of glasses.
Announcements started off by Pres Elect Jason Whalen on zoom inviting us to work at Fort Steilacoom Park doing clean up and other duties as assigned on Saturday, April 23rd from 9 am to noon. Send Jason an email for any details and to sign up or any thoughts you might want to pass his way. Jason and Mary Horn also talked a little bit about the strategic planning survey, giving us updated participant numbers as 62. We’re getting one last reminder and our input is critical to help our leaders design the future of our club. Jim stated that one member gave an outstanding comment but of course, his lips were sealed as to who it was and what he/she said. So fill out the survey and send it back for Pete’s sake. Actually for Rotary’s sake.
Sally Smith, Gayle Selden, Rick Selden and Stephanie Wilcox gave us a little pep talk about the upcoming auction. Like get those procurement items in ASAP! They detailed what has to happen AFTER you give them and that takes time. The deadline is May 7th. I repeat, May 7, 2022. The Sip and See is going to happen as part of the auction with tickets going for $50 for one person, $100 for two people, and you can get the idea about how much three or more will cost. The lucky ticket holders will get a fabulous charcuterie plate designed and plated by the Partners including a salami rose fashioned by Stephanie, a full bottle of red or white wine, four sampler desserts including a lemon bar, a chocolate cookie, homemade almond roca, and a surprise. OMG, I just want the desserts and the wine. That sounds fabulous! There are three ways to get your tickets: 1) corner John Lowney, Wendy McGowan, or Connie Coleman-Lacadie at the club; 2) after Saturday afternoon, buy them on line at Maxgiving.com; or 3) send one of these good folks an email stating the number of people and arrange to send your money. The Sip and See will start on zoom at 5:00 pm on May 21st hosted by Eric Quinn, who will appear by zoom as well, clearly trying to avoid any physical contact by any aggrieved guest. Rick Selden then threatened to bring the hammer if more items didn’t show up asap. He also highlighted the pros of auction by zoom, especially the fact that you don’t have to be fully dressed, but best make the top part presentable. He promised lots of fun and strongly encouraged group parties. In closing, he roused the membership by shouting: “Let’s light the fire and burn those tires!!” Pres Jim threw in his $2.00 by saying that he sampled the charcuterie plate at a meeting and said it was tasty and beautiful and a not-to-be-missed experience.
Pres Jim then announced there will be plenty of time for fines and generous giving. Jason Whalen led us off with giving $50 because some other member who has white hair and works as a judge snitched on him about a private meeting in a far away place where Jason was reportedly trolling jewelry stores. Jason called on the other unknown member to match his donation. And we’re still waiting for his/her identity, not like we don’t know who it is. Andrew Kruse gave $20 to celebrate his promotion as the City Life Director of Youth for Christ. Bill Potter gave $20 to promote his flyers advertising an event at the Tacoma Country and Golf Club celebrating Women in Business. Angela Connelly gave $100 to celebrate two things: Joe Quinn’s participation in the National Masters in Weightlifting in Salt Lake City. We’ll be with him in spirit. And celebrating a Military Child - son, Peter, starting West Point in June. Congrats to Peter and Mom and Dad. Pres Jim also gave $20 because he literally ran into Peter and brother Luke on Saturdays. Peter Marsh reported on his second booster shot and pain free arm with $20. Ed Shannon kicked in $100 to celebrate his 39th and final radiation treatment for prostate cancer on Tuesday. That is such wonderful news, Ed! Don Anderson reported a great time with family by giving his last $20. Barb Spriggs and Mary Marlin went to Maui and Oahu and brought Jim back a couple of presents: a map and flowers, a shot glass with a gray whale for use with dark rum, a key chain with his name on it, and a coaster with turtles on it to keep his drink safe. These gifts were to celebrate his successful eye surgeries. They also donated $25. Chuck Hellar took his wife, Sue, to Vero Beach in Florida for three and a half months and he had $24 left to give. Whew, that was quite the session of generous giving, Club!
THE PROGRAM: John Caulfield introduced our speaker, Becky Newton, Lakewood’s Economic Development Manager. Becky has an impressive resume of involvement in economic development on many levels. John called her the “tip of the spear” for economic development. She’s a UW grad and spent about seven years with the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance in Research and Communications and has been with Lakewood since October 2011 for economic development. Becky is also a volunteer with Parks and Recreation and is the President-Elect for Clover Park Rotary.
Becky started her presentation by notifiying us of a great event at her club on Friday, April 29th from 6 pm to 10 pm called CPRI (Clover Park Rotary Invitational) at McGavick Center and catered by Carr’s Resturant. Lots of fun for all with cash prizes up to $1,000. Also on May 6th Clover Park Rotary is sponsoring a cleanup party at the Wildlife Area on Phillips Road from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. She donated $20 for her advertisment.
As Becky started talking business development, a quiet respectful pall went over the club as all of the business owners, bankers, insurance brokers, CPAs and accountants went into the zone. Becky illustrated her talk with lots of great graphics with lots of numbers showing the amazing growth of Lakewood in the past five years. Becky emphasized that economic development is everyone’s issue and requires a team effort and partnership. At the end of 2021, Lakewood supported about 5,000 businesses of which 1,100 were home based and about 2,000 had commercial locations. Lakewood is proud of its high growth of retail and trade, healthcare and construction businesses. Compared to the nation, Lakewood shows a 1.6% increase in jobs. While Lakewood lost jobs since the pandemic as everyone else has, about half of them have been recovered. Lakewood has outpaced Tacoma and Pierce County and it’s important to not only retain those jobs but keep growing.
Speaking of permitting, Lakewood has seen a recent increase. In 2020-2021 there has been a growth of about $160 million in warehouse and commercial development. There are three important aspects to economic growth. First, to attract new businesses, Becky touts location close to I-5 and connection to the Port of Tacoma. Second, Lakewood has policies and programs to support intrastate connection. Some of those policies and programs include the Rental House Safety program, the Dangerous/Nuisance Abatement program, Colonial Place, Parks, Festivals and Gateways, including JBLM, the North Clear Zone, Tillicum Place, Climate Change, and the appropriate distribution of CARES money to businesses, fewer fees for businesses, and the 100 million for infrastructure improvement.
Some of the goals for Lakewood development include working on the strategic plan, growth management and fulfillment of the City Council goal for a dynamic and robust economy. Some city-wide plans include working on business retention and expansion as well as identifying barriers and opportunities. Also, Becky believes that media is an important tool for the promotion and recruitment, including developing good websites.
Looking at some of the focuses, the international area of downtown needs a cleanup to make it a special place to visit and shop, expand existing stores and start new ones. There are about 88% minority-owned businesses. Another example is in Springbrook which is in a floodplain. The city wants to mitigate risks of flooding in areas such as 123rd and the gravel pit. The city wants to support the military with housing and create better opportunities for development. Along with Springbrook, the North Clear Zone and Tillicum, the city is exploring the deferral of taxes and elimination of capital gains taxes to attract and retain businesses. In Tillicum, Habitat for Humanity has lots of projects ongoing as well as development of Harry Todd Park. In Lake City, there is already a nice business district that the city wants to enhance.
In the downtown area, the city hopes to make it more of a retail center. A survey yielded information about what the public needs to shop there. Since 2014 there has been an increase of customers shopping at those businesses. A plan developed in October 2019 includes partnership with KITE Realty to build a park and a new City Hall. Catapult Adventure Park is also in the offing as well as other plans to improve the urban area with residential and commercial units. There are four container sites for cleanup of downtown. The Pierce County Library system hopes to build a new library with branches in Tillicum with the policies developed by its advisory committee.
There are a lot of mixed use projects going on, including Craft Theory, BBQ Pete’s and Brew Pub. In the Lakewood Station District there is a 30-acre redevelopment around 108th and the railroad crossing. There is a townhome project with 65 units coming as well as more multi- family projects in various stages. In the Woodbrook Business Park, which is a 188-acre park, new industrial owners are coming, with distribution and warehouse development including parking. Becky talked about the history of these areas.
In her closing slides, she showed lists of new businesses in the last couple of years with 10 or more employees and more established businesses expanding. But she showed a long list of prospective businesses in the works. All told, Lakewood’s economic development appears to be in very good hands with a good productive future.
Questions from members included what about the QFC building? Becky agreed it’s a problem that is now in litigation. The primary dispute is that the owner wanted to improve the building and the city wanted the building demolished. The issue is going to trial later this year and hopefully a resolution will be found. Another question was where and how Becky looks for new businesses. She said she has partnerships with other agencies within the state and Pierce County. She looks to brokers to tell her who is looking at Lakewood and then she follows up if they decide not to locate to Lakewood.
We all thanked Becky for a very informative and interesting presentation.
John Caufield won the drawing but did not get the pot. Sorry John. Better luck next time.
Upcoming LR events:
4/23 Cleanup in the park
5/13-14 District Conference in beautiful and historic Victoria, B.C.
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
Visiting Rotarians included our speaker, Becky Newton, President-Elect of the Clover Park Rotary Club. Guests were Bill Price’s wife, Pat, Stephanie Wilcox, President of the Partners, and Angela Connelly introduced her guests as Amy Fallen and Terry Scott. All were welcomed. Puffins in attendance (and since my neck was not swiveling well, I might miss one or two of you – my apologies!) were Angela Connelly, James Osundwa, Connie Coleman-Lacadie, and Linda McDermott.
Eric Warn did our health and wellness report and thanked all for the glasses, especially Jim and Connie. John Warner was present with us on zoom (welcome back, John! So glad to see you up and about) and Vaughn Hoffman is having issues so send him good vibes. Pres Jim proudly announced that he will bring in two pairs of glasses because he had more successful surgery on his eyes, giving him amazing vision and no need for glasses. (You know, those doctors give us lawyers a hard time when they treat us because they are afraid we’ll sue them. Can you imagine how a doctor treating a doctor must feel? I know, just a random thought.) But we are glad Jim is free from the tyranny of glasses.
Announcements started off by Pres Elect Jason Whalen on zoom inviting us to work at Fort Steilacoom Park doing clean up and other duties as assigned on Saturday, April 23rd from 9 am to noon. Send Jason an email for any details and to sign up or any thoughts you might want to pass his way. Jason and Mary Horn also talked a little bit about the strategic planning survey, giving us updated participant numbers as 62. We’re getting one last reminder and our input is critical to help our leaders design the future of our club. Jim stated that one member gave an outstanding comment but of course, his lips were sealed as to who it was and what he/she said. So fill out the survey and send it back for Pete’s sake. Actually for Rotary’s sake.
Sally Smith, Gayle Selden, Rick Selden and Stephanie Wilcox gave us a little pep talk about the upcoming auction. Like get those procurement items in ASAP! They detailed what has to happen AFTER you give them and that takes time. The deadline is May 7th. I repeat, May 7, 2022. The Sip and See is going to happen as part of the auction with tickets going for $50 for one person, $100 for two people, and you can get the idea about how much three or more will cost. The lucky ticket holders will get a fabulous charcuterie plate designed and plated by the Partners including a salami rose fashioned by Stephanie, a full bottle of red or white wine, four sampler desserts including a lemon bar, a chocolate cookie, homemade almond roca, and a surprise. OMG, I just want the desserts and the wine. That sounds fabulous! There are three ways to get your tickets: 1) corner John Lowney, Wendy McGowan, or Connie Coleman-Lacadie at the club; 2) after Saturday afternoon, buy them on line at Maxgiving.com; or 3) send one of these good folks an email stating the number of people and arrange to send your money. The Sip and See will start on zoom at 5:00 pm on May 21st hosted by Eric Quinn, who will appear by zoom as well, clearly trying to avoid any physical contact by any aggrieved guest. Rick Selden then threatened to bring the hammer if more items didn’t show up asap. He also highlighted the pros of auction by zoom, especially the fact that you don’t have to be fully dressed, but best make the top part presentable. He promised lots of fun and strongly encouraged group parties. In closing, he roused the membership by shouting: “Let’s light the fire and burn those tires!!” Pres Jim threw in his $2.00 by saying that he sampled the charcuterie plate at a meeting and said it was tasty and beautiful and a not-to-be-missed experience.
Pres Jim then announced there will be plenty of time for fines and generous giving. Jason Whalen led us off with giving $50 because some other member who has white hair and works as a judge snitched on him about a private meeting in a far away place where Jason was reportedly trolling jewelry stores. Jason called on the other unknown member to match his donation. And we’re still waiting for his/her identity, not like we don’t know who it is. Andrew Kruse gave $20 to celebrate his promotion as the City Life Director of Youth for Christ. Bill Potter gave $20 to promote his flyers advertising an event at the Tacoma Country and Golf Club celebrating Women in Business. Angela Connelly gave $100 to celebrate two things: Joe Quinn’s participation in the National Masters in Weightlifting in Salt Lake City. We’ll be with him in spirit. And celebrating a Military Child - son, Peter, starting West Point in June. Congrats to Peter and Mom and Dad. Pres Jim also gave $20 because he literally ran into Peter and brother Luke on Saturdays. Peter Marsh reported on his second booster shot and pain free arm with $20. Ed Shannon kicked in $100 to celebrate his 39th and final radiation treatment for prostate cancer on Tuesday. That is such wonderful news, Ed! Don Anderson reported a great time with family by giving his last $20. Barb Spriggs and Mary Marlin went to Maui and Oahu and brought Jim back a couple of presents: a map and flowers, a shot glass with a gray whale for use with dark rum, a key chain with his name on it, and a coaster with turtles on it to keep his drink safe. These gifts were to celebrate his successful eye surgeries. They also donated $25. Chuck Hellar took his wife, Sue, to Vero Beach in Florida for three and a half months and he had $24 left to give. Whew, that was quite the session of generous giving, Club!
THE PROGRAM: John Caulfield introduced our speaker, Becky Newton, Lakewood’s Economic Development Manager. Becky has an impressive resume of involvement in economic development on many levels. John called her the “tip of the spear” for economic development. She’s a UW grad and spent about seven years with the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance in Research and Communications and has been with Lakewood since October 2011 for economic development. Becky is also a volunteer with Parks and Recreation and is the President-Elect for Clover Park Rotary.
Becky started her presentation by notifiying us of a great event at her club on Friday, April 29th from 6 pm to 10 pm called CPRI (Clover Park Rotary Invitational) at McGavick Center and catered by Carr’s Resturant. Lots of fun for all with cash prizes up to $1,000. Also on May 6th Clover Park Rotary is sponsoring a cleanup party at the Wildlife Area on Phillips Road from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. She donated $20 for her advertisment.
As Becky started talking business development, a quiet respectful pall went over the club as all of the business owners, bankers, insurance brokers, CPAs and accountants went into the zone. Becky illustrated her talk with lots of great graphics with lots of numbers showing the amazing growth of Lakewood in the past five years. Becky emphasized that economic development is everyone’s issue and requires a team effort and partnership. At the end of 2021, Lakewood supported about 5,000 businesses of which 1,100 were home based and about 2,000 had commercial locations. Lakewood is proud of its high growth of retail and trade, healthcare and construction businesses. Compared to the nation, Lakewood shows a 1.6% increase in jobs. While Lakewood lost jobs since the pandemic as everyone else has, about half of them have been recovered. Lakewood has outpaced Tacoma and Pierce County and it’s important to not only retain those jobs but keep growing.
Speaking of permitting, Lakewood has seen a recent increase. In 2020-2021 there has been a growth of about $160 million in warehouse and commercial development. There are three important aspects to economic growth. First, to attract new businesses, Becky touts location close to I-5 and connection to the Port of Tacoma. Second, Lakewood has policies and programs to support intrastate connection. Some of those policies and programs include the Rental House Safety program, the Dangerous/Nuisance Abatement program, Colonial Place, Parks, Festivals and Gateways, including JBLM, the North Clear Zone, Tillicum Place, Climate Change, and the appropriate distribution of CARES money to businesses, fewer fees for businesses, and the 100 million for infrastructure improvement.
Some of the goals for Lakewood development include working on the strategic plan, growth management and fulfillment of the City Council goal for a dynamic and robust economy. Some city-wide plans include working on business retention and expansion as well as identifying barriers and opportunities. Also, Becky believes that media is an important tool for the promotion and recruitment, including developing good websites.
Looking at some of the focuses, the international area of downtown needs a cleanup to make it a special place to visit and shop, expand existing stores and start new ones. There are about 88% minority-owned businesses. Another example is in Springbrook which is in a floodplain. The city wants to mitigate risks of flooding in areas such as 123rd and the gravel pit. The city wants to support the military with housing and create better opportunities for development. Along with Springbrook, the North Clear Zone and Tillicum, the city is exploring the deferral of taxes and elimination of capital gains taxes to attract and retain businesses. In Tillicum, Habitat for Humanity has lots of projects ongoing as well as development of Harry Todd Park. In Lake City, there is already a nice business district that the city wants to enhance.
In the downtown area, the city hopes to make it more of a retail center. A survey yielded information about what the public needs to shop there. Since 2014 there has been an increase of customers shopping at those businesses. A plan developed in October 2019 includes partnership with KITE Realty to build a park and a new City Hall. Catapult Adventure Park is also in the offing as well as other plans to improve the urban area with residential and commercial units. There are four container sites for cleanup of downtown. The Pierce County Library system hopes to build a new library with branches in Tillicum with the policies developed by its advisory committee.
There are a lot of mixed use projects going on, including Craft Theory, BBQ Pete’s and Brew Pub. In the Lakewood Station District there is a 30-acre redevelopment around 108th and the railroad crossing. There is a townhome project with 65 units coming as well as more multi- family projects in various stages. In the Woodbrook Business Park, which is a 188-acre park, new industrial owners are coming, with distribution and warehouse development including parking. Becky talked about the history of these areas.
In her closing slides, she showed lists of new businesses in the last couple of years with 10 or more employees and more established businesses expanding. But she showed a long list of prospective businesses in the works. All told, Lakewood’s economic development appears to be in very good hands with a good productive future.
Questions from members included what about the QFC building? Becky agreed it’s a problem that is now in litigation. The primary dispute is that the owner wanted to improve the building and the city wanted the building demolished. The issue is going to trial later this year and hopefully a resolution will be found. Another question was where and how Becky looks for new businesses. She said she has partnerships with other agencies within the state and Pierce County. She looks to brokers to tell her who is looking at Lakewood and then she follows up if they decide not to locate to Lakewood.
We all thanked Becky for a very informative and interesting presentation.
John Caufield won the drawing but did not get the pot. Sorry John. Better luck next time.
Upcoming LR events:
4/23 Cleanup in the park
5/13-14 District Conference in beautiful and historic Victoria, B.C.
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
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District Conference 5020
Sunday, April 10, 2022 By: Joseph F. Quinn
A LAKEWOOD KEY extra edition regarding DISTRICT CONFERENCELakewood Rotary President Nominee Mary Horn and her spouse, What’s His Name, I mean Past District Governor Greg Horn want to remind you that the Rotary District 5020 District Conference is going to be held on May 13-14, 2022 in beautiful and historic Victoria, B.C.
Above: The double decker buses with Parliament in the background
If you have never been to District Conference (or even if you have) you gotta go because it is fun and very educational about Rotary (ahem….Puffins!).
If you have never been to Victoria, you gotta go because it is a great city for tourism as you can tell from the pictures attached to this story.
Above: That harbor ambiance!
Upcoming LR events:
5/13-14 District Conference in Victoria, B.C.
Above: You can go have tea at the Empress (the one in the background in this photo)
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
Above: And did we mention: there will be fun people there, including Canadians!
If you have never been to Victoria, you gotta go because it is a great city for tourism as you can tell from the pictures attached to this story.
Above: That harbor ambiance!
Upcoming LR events:
5/13-14 District Conference in Victoria, B.C.
Above: You can go have tea at the Empress (the one in the background in this photo)
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
Above: And did we mention: there will be fun people there, including Canadians!
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LakewooLd Parks
Friday, April 8, 2022 By: Eric T Quinn
We Love Our Parks!THE LAKEWOOD KEY for April 8, 2022
President Jim Rooks (PJ) rang the hybrid meeting to order at 12:30 PM. Dave Coleman gave the invocation, and paid special attention to promoting peace in the Ukraine. Hank Kerns led us in the Pledge.
Making the Meeting happen: Rob Erb thanked his amazing set-up crew including James Osundwa, Duncan Cook, Terry Roarke, Kendra Riconosciuto and others who stepped up.
John Lowney collected fines.
Jan Gee is the sergeant at arms and running the raffle desk.
Eric Warn collected RI Foundation money.
Walt Richardson is the photographer.
Mary Moss introduced Visiting Rotarians: Judge Mansfield from Rotary 8 and Patti Belle from the Lakewood City Council. Pat Price attended with husband Bill Price.
PJ recognized the Puffins:
Carl Bronkema, Rachel Mazoff, Steve Saalfeld
Jamie Simons, James Osundwa, Wendy McGowan, Connie Coleman-
Lacadie, Anthony Veliz, Bob Martin, Andy Phillips, Angela Connelly, Linda McDermott and Dwight Williams
PJ asked if a Puffin was willing to act as Greeter Coordinator, so that we can organize an effective Greeter program again.
Eric Warn gave the health and wellness report. Dave Betz had a heart attack recently while in the hospital. He then had a heart attack a few days later due to blood clots from Covid. John Forkenbrock is doing well.
Jason Whalen announced that Parks Appreciation Day will take place Saturday, April 23 at Fort Steilacoom Park. There will be a Fellowship event organized around this.
Mary Horn discussed the Lakewood Rotary Strategic Plan survey. If you did not get the email about that Mary has hard copies.
Gayle Selden gave an announcement about the Auction. Recently Gayle went to the Little Free Pantry at LASA. She saw a woman and her child get food from the pantry and go sit at a picnic table and eat what they obtained from the pantry. This exemplifies the needs of our community. We meet that need by giving of our time and money The virtual auction—our one and only fundraiser—will take place on May 21. We have over $20,000 in sponsorships already! But what we really need to work on is procurement. She mentioned how the Indian dinner, donated by Tom George was very popular. We need to procure experiences, so think about those things. Anne Enquist talked about the Top Gun event that will be taking place on June 5 at 3:55 PM at the AMC Theater in the Lakewood Town Center. Tickets are $65.00 per person. About 55 tickets have already been sold and they have room for 75. Sally Smith discussed some of the cool procurements we have received.
Above: Rick Selden says “Get out there and procure.” (Actually Gayle said it, but it’s all in the family, right?)
Register for the event and purchase tickets to Sip and See and the Top Gun event here:
https://lakewoodrotary.maxgiving.bid/about-us
Ukraine help: Rose Stevens gave an update on the $7,800, which has been raised by the Club; District 5020 has raised $150,000 toward the disaster relief fund for the Ukraine.
PJ then moved on to fines and generous giving.
Above: Our Treasurer John Lowney
John Lowney offered $40 but PJ refused it! That may have been a Lakewood Rotary first, but it went unnoticed. David Swindale went to Oahu and gave $20.00 for the privilege. Rick and Sharon Selden went to Arizona recently and he pledged a Greenleaf-- $20.00-- for that. Bill Potter forked over $50.00 for a trip to Nashville courtesy of First Citizens Bank—he received many awards so was feeling very generous.
Above: Bill Potter felt magnanimous
John Caulfield introduced our speaker, Mary Dodsworth, the Parks and Recreation (“Parks”) Director of the City of Lakewood. Mary has been in public service for over 35 years. Mary and her team are responsible for maintaining over 600 acres of parks and open space. She creates fun and diverse programs, and is a firm believer in Parks and Recreation. She is a graduate of Central Washington University. She loves playing sports and travelling the world.
Mary thanked the Club for inviting her. She noted that this Club has been around since long before the City of Lakewood was a City. She provided the annual report on what is going on with Parks.
Here are some big things that happened in 2021:
[A huge hailstorm hit at the Tacoma Country Club during Mary’s talk but our indomitable Parks Director just talked louder and louder so she could be heard. She is not a quitter!]
Above: Mary Dodsworth (not a quitter)
Coming soon:
Mary discussed partnerships with the Nisqually Tribe, which is crucial to the improvement of the parks.
In terms of special events, Mary talked about the Reel Life film festival and the MLK virtual event. Mary reminded us that Parks Appreciation Day is coming right up on April 23. She also discussed many Youth and Family outdoor education events that are being planned. This summer, we will be utilizing the Colonial Plaza for a variety of events that include dancing. The Lakewood Farmers Market is coming back. It takes place on Tuesday nights at Fort Steilacoom Park. Mary reminded us of the other cool events that have taken place recently, including the trucks day and the tree lighting.
Learn more about all of the great things that are happening with Parks and the City of Lakewood at its website: cityoflakewood.us
Mary closed by discussing the importance of a vibrant community. She opened it up for questions and there were many.
The Drawing: There was one….I think…but it was not the big one!
Upcoming LR events:
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
PJ recognized the Puffins:
Carl Bronkema, Rachel Mazoff, Steve Saalfeld
Jamie Simons, James Osundwa, Wendy McGowan, Connie Coleman-
Lacadie, Anthony Veliz, Bob Martin, Andy Phillips, Angela Connelly, Linda McDermott and Dwight Williams
PJ asked if a Puffin was willing to act as Greeter Coordinator, so that we can organize an effective Greeter program again.
Eric Warn gave the health and wellness report. Dave Betz had a heart attack recently while in the hospital. He then had a heart attack a few days later due to blood clots from Covid. John Forkenbrock is doing well.
Jason Whalen announced that Parks Appreciation Day will take place Saturday, April 23 at Fort Steilacoom Park. There will be a Fellowship event organized around this.
Mary Horn discussed the Lakewood Rotary Strategic Plan survey. If you did not get the email about that Mary has hard copies.
Gayle Selden gave an announcement about the Auction. Recently Gayle went to the Little Free Pantry at LASA. She saw a woman and her child get food from the pantry and go sit at a picnic table and eat what they obtained from the pantry. This exemplifies the needs of our community. We meet that need by giving of our time and money The virtual auction—our one and only fundraiser—will take place on May 21. We have over $20,000 in sponsorships already! But what we really need to work on is procurement. She mentioned how the Indian dinner, donated by Tom George was very popular. We need to procure experiences, so think about those things. Anne Enquist talked about the Top Gun event that will be taking place on June 5 at 3:55 PM at the AMC Theater in the Lakewood Town Center. Tickets are $65.00 per person. About 55 tickets have already been sold and they have room for 75. Sally Smith discussed some of the cool procurements we have received.
Above: Rick Selden says “Get out there and procure.” (Actually Gayle said it, but it’s all in the family, right?)
Register for the event and purchase tickets to Sip and See and the Top Gun event here:
https://lakewoodrotary.maxgiving.bid/about-us
Ukraine help: Rose Stevens gave an update on the $7,800, which has been raised by the Club; District 5020 has raised $150,000 toward the disaster relief fund for the Ukraine.
PJ then moved on to fines and generous giving.
Above: Our Treasurer John Lowney
John Lowney offered $40 but PJ refused it! That may have been a Lakewood Rotary first, but it went unnoticed. David Swindale went to Oahu and gave $20.00 for the privilege. Rick and Sharon Selden went to Arizona recently and he pledged a Greenleaf-- $20.00-- for that. Bill Potter forked over $50.00 for a trip to Nashville courtesy of First Citizens Bank—he received many awards so was feeling very generous.
Above: Bill Potter felt magnanimous
John Caulfield introduced our speaker, Mary Dodsworth, the Parks and Recreation (“Parks”) Director of the City of Lakewood. Mary has been in public service for over 35 years. Mary and her team are responsible for maintaining over 600 acres of parks and open space. She creates fun and diverse programs, and is a firm believer in Parks and Recreation. She is a graduate of Central Washington University. She loves playing sports and travelling the world.
Mary thanked the Club for inviting her. She noted that this Club has been around since long before the City of Lakewood was a City. She provided the annual report on what is going on with Parks.
Here are some big things that happened in 2021:
- The playground at Fort Steilacoom Park has been updated to support all abilities;
- A warming kitchen and restrooms were added at the Pavilion at that park;
- The Harry Todd park in Tillicum has seen some waterfront improvements;
- Angle Lane South at Fort Steilacoom Park has been substantially improved;
- The Chambers Creek Canyon bridge is up-and-running! The bridge connects Lakewood to University Place. It is a great way to connect our communities;
[A huge hailstorm hit at the Tacoma Country Club during Mary’s talk but our indomitable Parks Director just talked louder and louder so she could be heard. She is not a quitter!]
Above: Mary Dodsworth (not a quitter)
Coming soon:
- There will be a series of improvements to Springbrook Park, including but not limited to bike paths;
- There have been changes to the American Lake Park, which right now include a new playground; and there are more exciting changes to come. A new entry plaza and sign will be completed. ADA accessibility at the park is of paramount concern. Everyone is welcome to get to the shoreline and play.
- Wards Lake Park is another important space. The City is looking at purchasing land to improve Wards Lake Park. Planned improvements include but are not limited to a loop trail and dog park.
- There are also planned changes to Edgewater, Oakbrook and Primley Parks. Improving playgrounds is a major priority for Parks.
- Another plan is to improve gateways and park signs, which is a major component of welcoming the public to the space.
- Improvements to the parks at Pierce College.
- We are working on a barn restoration project at Fort Steilacoom Park
Mary discussed partnerships with the Nisqually Tribe, which is crucial to the improvement of the parks.
In terms of special events, Mary talked about the Reel Life film festival and the MLK virtual event. Mary reminded us that Parks Appreciation Day is coming right up on April 23. She also discussed many Youth and Family outdoor education events that are being planned. This summer, we will be utilizing the Colonial Plaza for a variety of events that include dancing. The Lakewood Farmers Market is coming back. It takes place on Tuesday nights at Fort Steilacoom Park. Mary reminded us of the other cool events that have taken place recently, including the trucks day and the tree lighting.
Learn more about all of the great things that are happening with Parks and the City of Lakewood at its website: cityoflakewood.us
Mary closed by discussing the importance of a vibrant community. She opened it up for questions and there were many.
The Drawing: There was one….I think…but it was not the big one!
Upcoming LR events:
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
Read MoreShare
It's All Bull!
Sunday, April 3, 2022 By: Wendy Jo McGowan
It’s All Bull!
THE LAKEWOOD KEY for April Fool’s Day 2022
by Wendy McGowan
I didn’t think this assignment came with a byline, but I’ll accept it… graciously. My kinfolk, especially brother, father and grandfather (all astute newspapermen) will be proud.
Fortified with the holy tomes of William Strunk, E.B. White, Noah Webster, Peter Mark Roget and, of course my buddy, Google, I begin this hallowed journey of the Bull Writers. Joining the likes of Hemingway, Shakespeare, Dickens, Faulkner and Agatha Christie it’s not, but much to Ole’s anxiety, I will give it my all. Ole, I am counting on you to not fall asleep of sheer boredom. Boring or not, a little dose of the King’s English doesn’t hurt anyone. That, I am sure of. (Might that be a dangling preposition? Oh, well.)
Speaking of kings, King James…(er, that’s the name of another holy tome)…ahem, King James Rooks, with a gold crown atop his head, began this April Fool’s meeting right on the stroke of 12:30 p.m. with the help of the gong. Somehow, I find myself giggling at the vision of Dr. Rooks wearing a crown on his shiny noggin.
Forgetting the podium mic was active, the president was heard mumbling, “Who needs a day for the fools. I’m surrounded by them all year.” April Fools!
No fool he, President Rooks began the meeting by asking Bob Hammar to give the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Don Daniels.
Our trusty set-up crew, consisting of Rob Erb, James Osundwa, Terry Roarke, Bob Martin and Dave Swindale, were then thanked by President Jim for pulling it off once again. The president went on to acknowledge Steve Enquist for taking charge of the Foundation desk, Gary Barton for doing double-duty as sergeant-at-arms and overseer of the raffle ticket sales, Treasurer John Lowney for recording the fines, and Secretary Greg Rediske for keeping him in line. Additionally, President Jim thanked our photographer, Walt Richardson, and scribe, Wendy McGowan, for making sure this day was duly recorded.
The Puffins, James Osundwa, Veronica Bronkema, Andy Phillips, Anthony Veliz, Steve Saalfeld, Hank Kerns, Dwight Williams, Linda McDermott, Bob Martin and “yours truly” were then invited to stand.
Local architect, Jim Merritt, was a welcomed guest. And Jason Whalen introduced Brad Johnson and Avery Champagne.
Eric Warn normally provided a Health and Wellness Report at this point in the meeting, but Eric was traveling. We were, however, apprised that Dave Betz had suffered a heart attack. All send our very best Dave for your speedy recovery.
A couple of pranksters broke into the local police station and stole all the lavatory equipment. Chief Mike Zaro was quoted by a reporter as saying:“We have nothing to go on.” April Fool!
Greg Horn took the mic and enumerated the many member April birthdays: Dan Livingston, Leon Titus and Bill White, all April 8; Dave Betz April 12; Mary Covelli Johnson April 18; Donn Irwin April 19; Jerry Williams April 21; and Mark Edgecomb April 28.
Greg continued with Partner birthdays: Stephanie Wilcox (partner of Troy) April 6, Brandee Sharp (partner of Jim) April 10, and Carol Bisceglia (partner of Jim) April 18.
Several members are celebrating their anniversary in Rotary: Steve Saalfeld 1 year in our club, plus 5 years in a previous club; Barb Spriggs 6 years, Kim Prentice 16 years; Chris Kimball 12 years in Lakewood Rotary plus 9 years in a previous club; and Joan Strait 31 years.
And, to top it off, several of our members and their partners share their anniversaries this month: Troy and Stephanie Wilcox 22 years on April 2; Kim and Tom Prentice 24 years on April 4; Bill and Sue Potter 28 years on April 28; Connie Coleman-Lacadie and Michael 31 years on April 30; Donn and Debbie Irwin 37 years on April 27; Rob and Vickie Erb 45 years on April 9; and Bob and Stacia Cammarano 67 years on April 16. Wowie!
President Jim asked for any announcements. Jason Whalen spoke of our 3-5 Year Strategic Plan Survey and asked the members to look for it in their email.
Rose Stevens gave us an update on the Ukrainian student attending Pierce College. The exchange student’s name is Anna. She is interested in law and business administration. Outside of the classroom, Anna is a member of the track team and is a community volunteer. We are looking to form a network with another organization to assist Anna with the cost of her coming classes at Pierce.
Cheerleader, Gayle Selden, provided an update on The Auction which is being held virtually on Saturday, May 21. To date, $20,000.00 has been committed in sponsorships, but Gayle encouraged every member to gather procurements in the next couple of weeks.
Above: Cheerleader Gayle
To access Auction procurement forms and/or sponsorship forms, just sign on to http://www.lakewoodrotary.com, go to Get Involved (at the top), and down to 2022 Auction. Thanks to Leanna Christian, no password is required.
And, then came President Jim’s favorite part of the meeting: Fines and Generous Giving. He called on John Lowney to give us the lowdown on the recent Ski Trip to Sunriver. Participants included John and Pam Lowney, Phil and Judy Eng, Greg and Sharon Rediske, Steve and Anne Enquist, Joe and Kris Quinn, Rick and Sharon Selden, Steve and Ellen Mazoff, Jan Reeder and Jack, Sally Saunders, and Jan Gee.
A few Rotarians actually got in a couple of snowy ski runs, but apparently the highlight of the trip was the annual ping pong tournament. The ultimate winner among the male players was John himself, and not to be outdone, John’s wife, Pam, beat out the other women. Fun was had by all.
THE PROGRAM:
“There’s something funny going on! The Art of Clowning.” Jan Gee was invited to the podium to introduce today’s speakers. Before the guest speakers appeared, Jan enlightened us with tidbits of her “other life.” Following a 40-year career in Olympia representing the retail and grocery industries, Jan began an under-cover identity for the ensuing 15 years. She became Cupcake the Clown.
Jan admitted that those were the most joyous years of her life. She loved every smile she found on the face of a child with cancer or the happiness she brought to severely developmentally disabled adults. But, most of all, Jan delighted in serving with her fellow clowns. She let us in on her secret: “Clowns care.”
She introduced us to two of her favorite clowns: Donald Cormier, who is Teeny the Clown and Terry Cormier who is Lil’ Britches. Donald and Terry spend most of their time today volunteering at social service and community events. In addition, they train new and upcoming clowns.
Donald “played the straight man” today as he took us through the centuries of clowning: from ancient Greece in 1560, to Shakespeare, through the Elizabethan Era, and to the more recent years of Charlie Chaplin, Red Skelton, Emmett Kelly, Bozo the Clown, J.P. Patches and Ronald McDonald. Throughout Donald’s history lesson, “Lil’ Britches” enjoyed teasing Donald with her array of props, much to our delight.
Above: Lil’ Britches with prop
For many years clowns only entertained large audiences in places like the Roman colosseums and the “Big Top”. However, during the 1960s clowns became popular at children’s birthday parties. Following that, in the 1980s clowns were encouraged to appear in hospitals and the like.
Donald introduced us to many types of clowns: Jesters, magicians, white-faced clowns, tramps, harlequins, and hobos. Teeny the Clown and Lil’ Britches are known as August (pronounced “agus”) Clowns.
The program was enlightening! And was most appropriate on this day of April Fools.
Why do eggs like April Fool’s Day? They love practical yokes! (Oh, Ole, where do you get these tidbits? Groan!!!)
Dave Reames was the unlucky one to pull a white chip. No foolin’!
Upcoming LR events:
5/21 Lakewood RotaryAuction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
Forgetting the podium mic was active, the president was heard mumbling, “Who needs a day for the fools. I’m surrounded by them all year.” April Fools!
No fool he, President Rooks began the meeting by asking Bob Hammar to give the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Don Daniels.
Our trusty set-up crew, consisting of Rob Erb, James Osundwa, Terry Roarke, Bob Martin and Dave Swindale, were then thanked by President Jim for pulling it off once again. The president went on to acknowledge Steve Enquist for taking charge of the Foundation desk, Gary Barton for doing double-duty as sergeant-at-arms and overseer of the raffle ticket sales, Treasurer John Lowney for recording the fines, and Secretary Greg Rediske for keeping him in line. Additionally, President Jim thanked our photographer, Walt Richardson, and scribe, Wendy McGowan, for making sure this day was duly recorded.
The Puffins, James Osundwa, Veronica Bronkema, Andy Phillips, Anthony Veliz, Steve Saalfeld, Hank Kerns, Dwight Williams, Linda McDermott, Bob Martin and “yours truly” were then invited to stand.
Local architect, Jim Merritt, was a welcomed guest. And Jason Whalen introduced Brad Johnson and Avery Champagne.
Eric Warn normally provided a Health and Wellness Report at this point in the meeting, but Eric was traveling. We were, however, apprised that Dave Betz had suffered a heart attack. All send our very best Dave for your speedy recovery.
A couple of pranksters broke into the local police station and stole all the lavatory equipment. Chief Mike Zaro was quoted by a reporter as saying:“We have nothing to go on.” April Fool!
Greg Horn took the mic and enumerated the many member April birthdays: Dan Livingston, Leon Titus and Bill White, all April 8; Dave Betz April 12; Mary Covelli Johnson April 18; Donn Irwin April 19; Jerry Williams April 21; and Mark Edgecomb April 28.
Greg continued with Partner birthdays: Stephanie Wilcox (partner of Troy) April 6, Brandee Sharp (partner of Jim) April 10, and Carol Bisceglia (partner of Jim) April 18.
Several members are celebrating their anniversary in Rotary: Steve Saalfeld 1 year in our club, plus 5 years in a previous club; Barb Spriggs 6 years, Kim Prentice 16 years; Chris Kimball 12 years in Lakewood Rotary plus 9 years in a previous club; and Joan Strait 31 years.
And, to top it off, several of our members and their partners share their anniversaries this month: Troy and Stephanie Wilcox 22 years on April 2; Kim and Tom Prentice 24 years on April 4; Bill and Sue Potter 28 years on April 28; Connie Coleman-Lacadie and Michael 31 years on April 30; Donn and Debbie Irwin 37 years on April 27; Rob and Vickie Erb 45 years on April 9; and Bob and Stacia Cammarano 67 years on April 16. Wowie!
President Jim asked for any announcements. Jason Whalen spoke of our 3-5 Year Strategic Plan Survey and asked the members to look for it in their email.
Rose Stevens gave us an update on the Ukrainian student attending Pierce College. The exchange student’s name is Anna. She is interested in law and business administration. Outside of the classroom, Anna is a member of the track team and is a community volunteer. We are looking to form a network with another organization to assist Anna with the cost of her coming classes at Pierce.
Cheerleader, Gayle Selden, provided an update on The Auction which is being held virtually on Saturday, May 21. To date, $20,000.00 has been committed in sponsorships, but Gayle encouraged every member to gather procurements in the next couple of weeks.
Above: Cheerleader Gayle
To access Auction procurement forms and/or sponsorship forms, just sign on to http://www.lakewoodrotary.com, go to Get Involved (at the top), and down to 2022 Auction. Thanks to Leanna Christian, no password is required.
And, then came President Jim’s favorite part of the meeting: Fines and Generous Giving. He called on John Lowney to give us the lowdown on the recent Ski Trip to Sunriver. Participants included John and Pam Lowney, Phil and Judy Eng, Greg and Sharon Rediske, Steve and Anne Enquist, Joe and Kris Quinn, Rick and Sharon Selden, Steve and Ellen Mazoff, Jan Reeder and Jack, Sally Saunders, and Jan Gee.
A few Rotarians actually got in a couple of snowy ski runs, but apparently the highlight of the trip was the annual ping pong tournament. The ultimate winner among the male players was John himself, and not to be outdone, John’s wife, Pam, beat out the other women. Fun was had by all.
THE PROGRAM:
“There’s something funny going on! The Art of Clowning.” Jan Gee was invited to the podium to introduce today’s speakers. Before the guest speakers appeared, Jan enlightened us with tidbits of her “other life.” Following a 40-year career in Olympia representing the retail and grocery industries, Jan began an under-cover identity for the ensuing 15 years. She became Cupcake the Clown.
Jan admitted that those were the most joyous years of her life. She loved every smile she found on the face of a child with cancer or the happiness she brought to severely developmentally disabled adults. But, most of all, Jan delighted in serving with her fellow clowns. She let us in on her secret: “Clowns care.”
She introduced us to two of her favorite clowns: Donald Cormier, who is Teeny the Clown and Terry Cormier who is Lil’ Britches. Donald and Terry spend most of their time today volunteering at social service and community events. In addition, they train new and upcoming clowns.
Donald “played the straight man” today as he took us through the centuries of clowning: from ancient Greece in 1560, to Shakespeare, through the Elizabethan Era, and to the more recent years of Charlie Chaplin, Red Skelton, Emmett Kelly, Bozo the Clown, J.P. Patches and Ronald McDonald. Throughout Donald’s history lesson, “Lil’ Britches” enjoyed teasing Donald with her array of props, much to our delight.
Above: Lil’ Britches with prop
For many years clowns only entertained large audiences in places like the Roman colosseums and the “Big Top”. However, during the 1960s clowns became popular at children’s birthday parties. Following that, in the 1980s clowns were encouraged to appear in hospitals and the like.
Donald introduced us to many types of clowns: Jesters, magicians, white-faced clowns, tramps, harlequins, and hobos. Teeny the Clown and Lil’ Britches are known as August (pronounced “agus”) Clowns.
The program was enlightening! And was most appropriate on this day of April Fools.
Why do eggs like April Fool’s Day? They love practical yokes! (Oh, Ole, where do you get these tidbits? Groan!!!)
Dave Reames was the unlucky one to pull a white chip. No foolin’!
Upcoming LR events:
5/21 Lakewood RotaryAuction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
Read MoreShare
Onward and Upward
Friday, March 25, 2022 By: John W. Magnuson
The Lakewood Key for
March 25, 2022
Onward and upward
In order to truncate this “key” you will not encounter big words. Nope, you’ll not be confused by words such as “etymology” or “entomology.” Frankly, it really bugs me that most people can’t distinguish the difference in these words!
12:30 Welcome and Ring the Bell, Invocation by Paula Olson and – Ye Gods! What was that caterwauling? Lakewood Rotary set Canadian-American relations back a notch by singing our respective national anthems.
Speaking of international relations, did you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day as the Irish do in Ireland? With green beer and soda bread, cabbage and corned beef? I hope you left enough room for the celebration of Sprengidagur Day as is custom in Iceland where you eat buns, salted meat and peas until nearly bursting. The reason I ask is that Iceland is only one sea away from Ireland.
Now where were we…? Oh 12:32
If I rattle off a list of names, will you be able to discern the important functions of these Rotarians? I bet you can: Rob Erb, Tom George, James Osundwa, Rick Selden, Terry Roark, Bob Martin, Leanna Christian and Kendra Riconosciuto.
Next up: John Lowney, Ole, Greg Horn, Steve Enquist, Gary Fulton and Walt Richardson.
One minute later: AD Tony Camoroda introduced DG Lorna Curtis. President Jim introduced visiting Rotarian Mario Zink from Kent, I believe I heard. PP Phil Eng introduced Judy Eng from California.
Quick quiz at 12:35 – (see how we’re just zipping along here?)
Who are these VIP’s? Rachel Mazoff, Steve Saalfeld, Jamie Simons, James Osundwa, Wendy McGowan, Connie Coleman-Lacadie, Tony Veliz, Bob Martin, Andy Phillips, Angela Connelly, Dwight Williams, Linda McDermott, Veronica Bronkema and Hank Kerns. Please submit your answer using the attached BlueBook not later than next Friday at 12:30 PM to President Jim Rooks.
Speaking of education, Secretary Greg Rediske has been taking drum lessons from PP Chris Kimball. Chris gave Greg one of his old drums to practice on, but it is broken. Greg says you just can’t beat it.
Health and Wellness with Eric Warn: John Forkenbrock is seriously ill. Sorry to hear that old neighbor! John Warner was hospitalized but is on the mend.
12:38 With Steve Enquist and DG Lorna Curtis; quiz time again. I’ll give you the name and a number and you complete another BlueBook on what the number signifies. Mary Marlin – 2, Barb Spriggs – 4, Rob Erb – 5, Sally Smith – 7, Don Anderson – 8, John Caulfield – 8, Gary Fulton promoted to Major (hint, hint.) I don’t want to give any more clues so I made them opaque. I had to look up the definition of opaque but it wasn’t very clear.
Above: Paul Harris Fellows with the DG
12:40 Rob Erb introduced Linda Collins and Tammy Golden of JBLM Family Scholarship Fund and presented a check for Lakewood Rotary’s support of their efforts. They provide educational access to children and spouses of military families. They have awarded $193,750 to 149 recipients for their higher education. Wow! That is impressive. Kudos.
12:45 President Jim and PP Rose Stevens updated Ukrainian support efforts and began collecting spare change from the gathered. More later.
PP Rick Selden updated the club on progress towards the upcoming Auction. He named sponsors and donors so fast I couldn’t get them, but suffice to say it was a long list of generosity. We have collected $11,000 on our way to a goal of $25,000. Rick graciously gave a nod to second generation Rotarian John Korsmo of Korsmo Construction. When John was apprenticing for his Dad, he had a fear of over-engineered buildings. It was diagnosed as a complex complex complex.
12:55 PG Greg Horn announced that Rotary Grant Scholarship awardee from Lakewood, Marissa Terry, had her scholarship doubled by RI. It totals $30,000 for her studies in Ireland. Greg also awarded PP Mark Edgecomb a RI Presidential Citation for his leadership in 2021. Well done Mark-- under the most difficult of circumstances!
Mark and Jim Weinand are our busy CPA’s at this time of year. Can you imagine those tax returns with all that money going to Washington DC? You do realize that “Theirs is The IRS” don’t you? I’m sure Jim and Mark have had their fill of math puns. They probably make them number.
1:00 on the bean! John Caulfield introduced our very own and Lakewood’s very own Chief Jim Sharp. Jim has 36 years with the Fire Service and 10 years as West Pierce Chief.
Above: Jim Sharp, the West Pierce Fire Chief
We had some technical difficulties but the highlights included the fact that personal health calls are way up, year over year. They have 5 aid cars dedicated to critical care immediate response. (If I have that number wrong, my apologies.)
There is now one small truck available 12 hours per day. The small vehicle is essentially everything but a fire vehicle. It is smaller, quicker, more efficient and utilizes a crew of 2 or 3.
Much of what the crews deal with involves discerning cause versus symptoms. The symptom manifests as a result of little, no, or wrong foods resulting in health crises. Cause versus symptom. Another cause: no gasoline or no vehicle. The individual can’t get to food or other necessities that results in a call to 911. Often there is no family support. Often no money. The district has set up a plan called Connect Care. An experienced Nurse staffs it. Contact may start with a 911 call. The program begins with community resources – of which there are a plentitude. But it takes knowing how and where to access them. That access is followed by a referral and education. Many times that solves the symptom because it corrects the causal issue.
The population of those in need is growing dramatically. The elderly, the lonely, those with mental health issues, the abused, the homeless, those with critical medical needs management, and so forth.
What lies ahead for the fire district? More new hires – 21 so far in 2022. A 2nd Battalion Chief. New Station #32. New Logistics Center. New Training Tower and drill ground. 2023 Operations Levy and Bond. A plan for the next 20 years.
Jim mentioned their cooperation with law enforcement and the need for many on his team to be detective skilled. He didn’t go so far as to imply that Fire Fighters would be armed. Many police have voiced concern that the guns they have been issued do not have a trouble-shooting section in their manuals. And, for example, the Fire District did not respond to the 911 call about the break-in at the Apple store. Police are looking for iWitnesses. Sorry to have missed the Q & A as there was no sound.
What’s with the pre-meeting fellowship being replaced by PowerPoint on a loop? One time round is enough. Ten times round is too much. Bring back the fellowship. Once is enough to remember all that the Lakewood Foundation does. Keep in mind the Memory Foam Mattress. Sometimes it wishes it could just forget!
Above: We like our ADG, Tony Camoroda, but only $5 worth
Who Reads This Stuff,
Ole
President Jim announced that more than $7100 was raised for Ukrainian support.
Calendar of Upcoming LR Events: (if you have an item send it to me—Joe Quinn, Editor)
3/27-31 Sunriver Rotary Ski Trip (sold out)
3/28 Break Bag Delivery on a Monday
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
Now where were we…? Oh 12:32
If I rattle off a list of names, will you be able to discern the important functions of these Rotarians? I bet you can: Rob Erb, Tom George, James Osundwa, Rick Selden, Terry Roark, Bob Martin, Leanna Christian and Kendra Riconosciuto.
Next up: John Lowney, Ole, Greg Horn, Steve Enquist, Gary Fulton and Walt Richardson.
One minute later: AD Tony Camoroda introduced DG Lorna Curtis. President Jim introduced visiting Rotarian Mario Zink from Kent, I believe I heard. PP Phil Eng introduced Judy Eng from California.
Quick quiz at 12:35 – (see how we’re just zipping along here?)
Who are these VIP’s? Rachel Mazoff, Steve Saalfeld, Jamie Simons, James Osundwa, Wendy McGowan, Connie Coleman-Lacadie, Tony Veliz, Bob Martin, Andy Phillips, Angela Connelly, Dwight Williams, Linda McDermott, Veronica Bronkema and Hank Kerns. Please submit your answer using the attached BlueBook not later than next Friday at 12:30 PM to President Jim Rooks.
Speaking of education, Secretary Greg Rediske has been taking drum lessons from PP Chris Kimball. Chris gave Greg one of his old drums to practice on, but it is broken. Greg says you just can’t beat it.
Health and Wellness with Eric Warn: John Forkenbrock is seriously ill. Sorry to hear that old neighbor! John Warner was hospitalized but is on the mend.
12:38 With Steve Enquist and DG Lorna Curtis; quiz time again. I’ll give you the name and a number and you complete another BlueBook on what the number signifies. Mary Marlin – 2, Barb Spriggs – 4, Rob Erb – 5, Sally Smith – 7, Don Anderson – 8, John Caulfield – 8, Gary Fulton promoted to Major (hint, hint.) I don’t want to give any more clues so I made them opaque. I had to look up the definition of opaque but it wasn’t very clear.
Above: Paul Harris Fellows with the DG
12:40 Rob Erb introduced Linda Collins and Tammy Golden of JBLM Family Scholarship Fund and presented a check for Lakewood Rotary’s support of their efforts. They provide educational access to children and spouses of military families. They have awarded $193,750 to 149 recipients for their higher education. Wow! That is impressive. Kudos.
12:45 President Jim and PP Rose Stevens updated Ukrainian support efforts and began collecting spare change from the gathered. More later.
PP Rick Selden updated the club on progress towards the upcoming Auction. He named sponsors and donors so fast I couldn’t get them, but suffice to say it was a long list of generosity. We have collected $11,000 on our way to a goal of $25,000. Rick graciously gave a nod to second generation Rotarian John Korsmo of Korsmo Construction. When John was apprenticing for his Dad, he had a fear of over-engineered buildings. It was diagnosed as a complex complex complex.
12:55 PG Greg Horn announced that Rotary Grant Scholarship awardee from Lakewood, Marissa Terry, had her scholarship doubled by RI. It totals $30,000 for her studies in Ireland. Greg also awarded PP Mark Edgecomb a RI Presidential Citation for his leadership in 2021. Well done Mark-- under the most difficult of circumstances!
Mark and Jim Weinand are our busy CPA’s at this time of year. Can you imagine those tax returns with all that money going to Washington DC? You do realize that “Theirs is The IRS” don’t you? I’m sure Jim and Mark have had their fill of math puns. They probably make them number.
1:00 on the bean! John Caulfield introduced our very own and Lakewood’s very own Chief Jim Sharp. Jim has 36 years with the Fire Service and 10 years as West Pierce Chief.
Above: Jim Sharp, the West Pierce Fire Chief
We had some technical difficulties but the highlights included the fact that personal health calls are way up, year over year. They have 5 aid cars dedicated to critical care immediate response. (If I have that number wrong, my apologies.)
There is now one small truck available 12 hours per day. The small vehicle is essentially everything but a fire vehicle. It is smaller, quicker, more efficient and utilizes a crew of 2 or 3.
Much of what the crews deal with involves discerning cause versus symptoms. The symptom manifests as a result of little, no, or wrong foods resulting in health crises. Cause versus symptom. Another cause: no gasoline or no vehicle. The individual can’t get to food or other necessities that results in a call to 911. Often there is no family support. Often no money. The district has set up a plan called Connect Care. An experienced Nurse staffs it. Contact may start with a 911 call. The program begins with community resources – of which there are a plentitude. But it takes knowing how and where to access them. That access is followed by a referral and education. Many times that solves the symptom because it corrects the causal issue.
The population of those in need is growing dramatically. The elderly, the lonely, those with mental health issues, the abused, the homeless, those with critical medical needs management, and so forth.
What lies ahead for the fire district? More new hires – 21 so far in 2022. A 2nd Battalion Chief. New Station #32. New Logistics Center. New Training Tower and drill ground. 2023 Operations Levy and Bond. A plan for the next 20 years.
Jim mentioned their cooperation with law enforcement and the need for many on his team to be detective skilled. He didn’t go so far as to imply that Fire Fighters would be armed. Many police have voiced concern that the guns they have been issued do not have a trouble-shooting section in their manuals. And, for example, the Fire District did not respond to the 911 call about the break-in at the Apple store. Police are looking for iWitnesses. Sorry to have missed the Q & A as there was no sound.
What’s with the pre-meeting fellowship being replaced by PowerPoint on a loop? One time round is enough. Ten times round is too much. Bring back the fellowship. Once is enough to remember all that the Lakewood Foundation does. Keep in mind the Memory Foam Mattress. Sometimes it wishes it could just forget!
Above: We like our ADG, Tony Camoroda, but only $5 worth
Who Reads This Stuff,
Ole
President Jim announced that more than $7100 was raised for Ukrainian support.
Calendar of Upcoming LR Events: (if you have an item send it to me—Joe Quinn, Editor)
3/27-31 Sunriver Rotary Ski Trip (sold out)
3/28 Break Bag Delivery on a Monday
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
Read MoreShare
Homelessness in Pierce County
Sunday, March 20, 2022 By: Donn Irwin
Homelessness in PCThe Lakewood Key for March 18,2022
Housing will never solve homelessness but community will.
President Rooks started the meeting at exactly 12:30 p.m. Clint Johnson invoked us. Past President (PP) Mark Edgecomb led us in the Pledge. Current President Jim Rooks (PJR) took the microphone and commanded PP Mark to return to the podium in order to present him with his PP Rotary Badge (more about this later)
Those that I could detect that were in attendance via Zoom were: Carole Wier, Gary Barton, Wynn Hoffman, Phil Eng, Eric Quinn, Ole (John Magnificenton), Leanna Christian and Nicole Hancock.
On this day in history:
1325 - According to legend, Tenochtitlan is founded on this date on an island in what was then Lake Texcoco in the Valley of Mexico
Acknowledgements for those that make the meetings happen:
The Rob Erb Construction and Deconstruction crew: Tom George, James Osundwa, Rick Selden, Terry Roarke, Bob Martin, Leanna Christian and Kendra Riconosciuto.
Fine money man – John Lowney. The person on the typewriter – Donn Irwin. Barlow Buescher did the work on the $2.00 raffle table and doubled as the Sgt at Arms.
Greg Rediske was charged with the difficult task of minding the President’s gaffes (isn’t that called Public Relations?). Walt “The Man with the Camera” Richardson took pictures.
Greetings were done by, well, nobody. My anonymous source did inform me that Wendy McGowan and Hank Kerns were at the front desk...mostly learning about the auction from Sally but there was no “official” greeter.
PJR called Steve Enquist to the mic to make a Community Concerns grant announcement for Lakewood Sister Cities and the Firefighters Association Christmas Project. Connie Coleman-Lacadie accepted the $900.00 award for the Sister Cities and West Pierce Fire (WPF) Head Honcho Jim Sharp accepted the $$ for the Firefighters. This boys and girls is your Auction money put to work!
On this day in…
1532 - English parliament bans payments by English church to Rome
PJR then opened up the floor for announcing guests with Mr. Sharp leading off the action by introducing some of the staff at West Pierce Fire. Ryan McGrady is the Asst Chief of EMS (also known to WPF as Mr. McFauci due to his Covid policy responsibilities) and Karen Gilbert of WPF’s new Connected Care program. Next up was Jason Whalen who introduced Avery Champagne. Avery is a new chiropractor in town. Last but not least, former District Governor Greg Horn introduced Deb Horn, Mary and Greg’s daughter-in-law.
Eric Warn once again thanked the body at large for eyeglass donations and he reminded us of Mick Johnson’s upcoming memorial service on March 26th at the Country Club from 2-5 PM.
1662 – Paris, France -The first public bus service begins.
Above: Anne Enquist-a top gun
Announcements:
Anne Enquist came to the podium to chat about this year’s Dinner and a Movie for the Auction. The new Top Gun will be the film. June 5th is the date. Lakewood AMC and the Enquist’s place are the locations. The movie starts at 3:55PM (yes, there will be popcorn) with a BBQ after the movie. I leave it up to the reader to figure out where the movie is and where the BBQ will happen. Tickets are $65.00 each. John Lowney offered to process the payments through Square or you can go to a website called https://lakewoodrotary.maxgiving.bid/about-us. Best hurry if you are interested as the maximum capacity is 70 and, at the time of the announcement, there were 35 tickets spoken for.
PJR let us know that there are updated printed copies of our roster available at the front table.
1766 – Britain repeals the Stamp Act
Rose Stevens made an announcement about helping the Ukrainians. If you want to help you can donate some money. Said money will be paying for health exams and medical supplies for Ukrainian refugees coming into Poland. PJR followed up Rose’s announcement with one of his own about District Governor Lorna Curtis’s visit next week. PJR made it known that he will be asking for donations for Ukraine at our next meeting.
1850 – Henry Wells and William Fargo form American Express
The Fines and Generous Giving hat went on and the money began rolling in. Jim Sharp was up again (I think he was tired after our meeting as he was up and down a lot). Jim bragged on, and paid for, some of his Firefighters. 1200 firefighters from around the world converged on the Columbia Tower in Seattle to participate in a fundraiser by climbing up the stairs of the building to the 69th floor. Did I mention that the participants were wearing a full set of gear during the climb? This is a timed event. One of the male firefighters from WPF came in 3rd, while one of the WPF female firefighters came in 1st of the women participating. WPF came in third overall. Rose Stevens came back from a trip to Hawaii with Mary Horn bearing gifts for PJR. After some serious investigative reporting this scribe found out that the trip was ostensibly a Rotary trip; however, it was difficult to pry the facts out of my source because, evidently, Las Vegas isn’t the only location where things that happen there, stay there. I believe there was actually a meeting or two that Mary and Rose attended. I didn’t catch Phil Eng’s reason for paying a fine but, heck, he’s in Palm Springs so that’s enough reason right there. Gary Barton ponied up money because he was elected to the Board of the Association of Water and Sewer Districts – congrats to Gary and thank you for the $$. PP Mark Edgecomb got up to pay for several things: 34th wedding anniversary, an upcoming birthday, missing PJR’s Puffin Roast and for his “raking Greg Rediske over the coals” about not having gotten his PP badge (remember the beginning of this epistle when PJR gave him his badge)? This writer is wondering how PP Mark likes his crow cooked. Kudos to Mark for ‘fessing up and paying a fine.
James Osundwa paid for a trip south of the border as did Clint Johnson. Clint also paid a fine for his wife having a new job (CPSD I believe), his grandkids being good and a new/used EV. Eric Quinn tossed $40.00 into the fine pot for his birthday and a trip to Orcas Island.
Above: Poor Gsa Gsa Gabor!
And here is some terrible financial history news – 1994 – Zsa Zsa Gabor files for bankruptcy
THE PROGRAM: Strategies for Addressing Homelessness in Pierce County.
Don Anderson introduced our speaker, Steve O’Ban. Don let it be known that both he and Mr. O’Ban had run for political office against an opponent that was a convicted felon…. both of them lost (Only in America). Mr. O’Ban began his remarks by stating that he lost to the aforementioned felon opponent by fewer votes that did Mr. Anderson. He then got into the program.
Steve stated that there has been a lot of money spent to solve the homeless problem and it is still not fixed. We need a different approach. As a preamble to his next point, Mr. O’Ban stated that he has spoken to lots and lots of parents that have children that are homeless for many reasons but often it is either drugs, mental illness or both. His notion is that if you see a homeless person and then imagine if that person was your child, what would you like the government to do to help that person? The answer – respond with compassion and a willingness to help.
Of the homeless population 20% don’t want to stay homeless (they are homeless due to domestic violence, job loss etc). 20% are actually preying on the other homeless (drugs/human trafficking) and 60% are chronically homeless. Of this group many of them may not have had a drug problem before they became homeless but have developed one due to their situation. Chronic homelessness is defined by being homeless for over a year.
In Pierce County there are about 1600 homeless with 600 housing units available for them. We are short about 1,000 units and the services that go with them. Steve then told us about a program that started in Austin, Texas called Community First. This program started out with a food truck delivering food to the homeless and grew into several more food trucks and eventually became a whole master planned community covering 51 acres. Tiny houses, wood, auto and iron working shops along with community centers and named/signed streets are all part of the community. The shops provide an avenue for the community members with skills to make money doing what they love to do.
There are three basic rules for the community: Pay rent, be a good neighbor, and obey the rules (don’t break the law). The whole notion of this program is that homelessness isn’t a housing problem; it is a human problem. People need a place where they can build back relationships after usually being shunned by their friends and families. Housing will never solve homelessness but community will. Pierce County now has 22 million dollars set aside for land acquisition and design to build its own “community first.” This is still not enough so the County is looking for in-kind services, money and an experienced provider to run the project and do a feasibility study. The goal is to have a firm proposal by October of 2022.
More famous and infamous events about this day in history:
1931 – The first electric shavers go on sale
1942 – President Franklin Roosevelt signs Executive Order 9102 creating the War Relocation Authority which oversaw the internment of Japanese Americans during WWII.
1959 – Hawaii becomes a State
1965 – Poppin’ Fresh Pillsbury Dough Boy introduced
Above: Poor Gsa Gsa Gabor!
And here is some terrible financial history news – 1994 – Zsa Zsa Gabor files for bankruptcy
Rob Erb won the drawing – white chip, five bucks. He broke even.
Some dumb jokes to close us out for this week:
Me: Alexa, remind me to go to the gym.
Alexa: I have added gin to your shopping list.
Me: Close enough.
Eye doctor: Your results just came back.
Me: Can I see them?
Eye doctor: Probably not.
Have a great week and prepare yourself for next week’s version of your “Key” ……brush up on your Swedish\Norwegian so you will better understand it. He won’t know I’ve mentioned this as he doesn’t read this stuff anyway.
Calendar of Upcoming LR Events:
3/27-31 Sunriver Rotary Ski Trip (sold out)
3/28 Break Bag Delivery on a Monday
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
1325 - According to legend, Tenochtitlan is founded on this date on an island in what was then Lake Texcoco in the Valley of Mexico
Acknowledgements for those that make the meetings happen:
The Rob Erb Construction and Deconstruction crew: Tom George, James Osundwa, Rick Selden, Terry Roarke, Bob Martin, Leanna Christian and Kendra Riconosciuto.
Fine money man – John Lowney. The person on the typewriter – Donn Irwin. Barlow Buescher did the work on the $2.00 raffle table and doubled as the Sgt at Arms.
Greg Rediske was charged with the difficult task of minding the President’s gaffes (isn’t that called Public Relations?). Walt “The Man with the Camera” Richardson took pictures.
Greetings were done by, well, nobody. My anonymous source did inform me that Wendy McGowan and Hank Kerns were at the front desk...mostly learning about the auction from Sally but there was no “official” greeter.
PJR called Steve Enquist to the mic to make a Community Concerns grant announcement for Lakewood Sister Cities and the Firefighters Association Christmas Project. Connie Coleman-Lacadie accepted the $900.00 award for the Sister Cities and West Pierce Fire (WPF) Head Honcho Jim Sharp accepted the $$ for the Firefighters. This boys and girls is your Auction money put to work!
On this day in…
1532 - English parliament bans payments by English church to Rome
PJR then opened up the floor for announcing guests with Mr. Sharp leading off the action by introducing some of the staff at West Pierce Fire. Ryan McGrady is the Asst Chief of EMS (also known to WPF as Mr. McFauci due to his Covid policy responsibilities) and Karen Gilbert of WPF’s new Connected Care program. Next up was Jason Whalen who introduced Avery Champagne. Avery is a new chiropractor in town. Last but not least, former District Governor Greg Horn introduced Deb Horn, Mary and Greg’s daughter-in-law.
Eric Warn once again thanked the body at large for eyeglass donations and he reminded us of Mick Johnson’s upcoming memorial service on March 26th at the Country Club from 2-5 PM.
1662 – Paris, France -The first public bus service begins.
Above: Anne Enquist-a top gun
Announcements:
Anne Enquist came to the podium to chat about this year’s Dinner and a Movie for the Auction. The new Top Gun will be the film. June 5th is the date. Lakewood AMC and the Enquist’s place are the locations. The movie starts at 3:55PM (yes, there will be popcorn) with a BBQ after the movie. I leave it up to the reader to figure out where the movie is and where the BBQ will happen. Tickets are $65.00 each. John Lowney offered to process the payments through Square or you can go to a website called https://lakewoodrotary.maxgiving.bid/about-us. Best hurry if you are interested as the maximum capacity is 70 and, at the time of the announcement, there were 35 tickets spoken for.
PJR let us know that there are updated printed copies of our roster available at the front table.
1766 – Britain repeals the Stamp Act
Rose Stevens made an announcement about helping the Ukrainians. If you want to help you can donate some money. Said money will be paying for health exams and medical supplies for Ukrainian refugees coming into Poland. PJR followed up Rose’s announcement with one of his own about District Governor Lorna Curtis’s visit next week. PJR made it known that he will be asking for donations for Ukraine at our next meeting.
1850 – Henry Wells and William Fargo form American Express
The Fines and Generous Giving hat went on and the money began rolling in. Jim Sharp was up again (I think he was tired after our meeting as he was up and down a lot). Jim bragged on, and paid for, some of his Firefighters. 1200 firefighters from around the world converged on the Columbia Tower in Seattle to participate in a fundraiser by climbing up the stairs of the building to the 69th floor. Did I mention that the participants were wearing a full set of gear during the climb? This is a timed event. One of the male firefighters from WPF came in 3rd, while one of the WPF female firefighters came in 1st of the women participating. WPF came in third overall. Rose Stevens came back from a trip to Hawaii with Mary Horn bearing gifts for PJR. After some serious investigative reporting this scribe found out that the trip was ostensibly a Rotary trip; however, it was difficult to pry the facts out of my source because, evidently, Las Vegas isn’t the only location where things that happen there, stay there. I believe there was actually a meeting or two that Mary and Rose attended. I didn’t catch Phil Eng’s reason for paying a fine but, heck, he’s in Palm Springs so that’s enough reason right there. Gary Barton ponied up money because he was elected to the Board of the Association of Water and Sewer Districts – congrats to Gary and thank you for the $$. PP Mark Edgecomb got up to pay for several things: 34th wedding anniversary, an upcoming birthday, missing PJR’s Puffin Roast and for his “raking Greg Rediske over the coals” about not having gotten his PP badge (remember the beginning of this epistle when PJR gave him his badge)? This writer is wondering how PP Mark likes his crow cooked. Kudos to Mark for ‘fessing up and paying a fine.
James Osundwa paid for a trip south of the border as did Clint Johnson. Clint also paid a fine for his wife having a new job (CPSD I believe), his grandkids being good and a new/used EV. Eric Quinn tossed $40.00 into the fine pot for his birthday and a trip to Orcas Island.
Above: Poor Gsa Gsa Gabor!
And here is some terrible financial history news – 1994 – Zsa Zsa Gabor files for bankruptcy
THE PROGRAM: Strategies for Addressing Homelessness in Pierce County.
Don Anderson introduced our speaker, Steve O’Ban. Don let it be known that both he and Mr. O’Ban had run for political office against an opponent that was a convicted felon…. both of them lost (Only in America). Mr. O’Ban began his remarks by stating that he lost to the aforementioned felon opponent by fewer votes that did Mr. Anderson. He then got into the program.
Steve stated that there has been a lot of money spent to solve the homeless problem and it is still not fixed. We need a different approach. As a preamble to his next point, Mr. O’Ban stated that he has spoken to lots and lots of parents that have children that are homeless for many reasons but often it is either drugs, mental illness or both. His notion is that if you see a homeless person and then imagine if that person was your child, what would you like the government to do to help that person? The answer – respond with compassion and a willingness to help.
Of the homeless population 20% don’t want to stay homeless (they are homeless due to domestic violence, job loss etc). 20% are actually preying on the other homeless (drugs/human trafficking) and 60% are chronically homeless. Of this group many of them may not have had a drug problem before they became homeless but have developed one due to their situation. Chronic homelessness is defined by being homeless for over a year.
In Pierce County there are about 1600 homeless with 600 housing units available for them. We are short about 1,000 units and the services that go with them. Steve then told us about a program that started in Austin, Texas called Community First. This program started out with a food truck delivering food to the homeless and grew into several more food trucks and eventually became a whole master planned community covering 51 acres. Tiny houses, wood, auto and iron working shops along with community centers and named/signed streets are all part of the community. The shops provide an avenue for the community members with skills to make money doing what they love to do.
There are three basic rules for the community: Pay rent, be a good neighbor, and obey the rules (don’t break the law). The whole notion of this program is that homelessness isn’t a housing problem; it is a human problem. People need a place where they can build back relationships after usually being shunned by their friends and families. Housing will never solve homelessness but community will. Pierce County now has 22 million dollars set aside for land acquisition and design to build its own “community first.” This is still not enough so the County is looking for in-kind services, money and an experienced provider to run the project and do a feasibility study. The goal is to have a firm proposal by October of 2022.
More famous and infamous events about this day in history:
1931 – The first electric shavers go on sale
1942 – President Franklin Roosevelt signs Executive Order 9102 creating the War Relocation Authority which oversaw the internment of Japanese Americans during WWII.
1959 – Hawaii becomes a State
1965 – Poppin’ Fresh Pillsbury Dough Boy introduced
Above: Poor Gsa Gsa Gabor!
And here is some terrible financial history news – 1994 – Zsa Zsa Gabor files for bankruptcy
Rob Erb won the drawing – white chip, five bucks. He broke even.
Some dumb jokes to close us out for this week:
Me: Alexa, remind me to go to the gym.
Alexa: I have added gin to your shopping list.
Me: Close enough.
Eye doctor: Your results just came back.
Me: Can I see them?
Eye doctor: Probably not.
Have a great week and prepare yourself for next week’s version of your “Key” ……brush up on your Swedish\Norwegian so you will better understand it. He won’t know I’ve mentioned this as he doesn’t read this stuff anyway.
Calendar of Upcoming LR Events:
3/27-31 Sunriver Rotary Ski Trip (sold out)
3/28 Break Bag Delivery on a Monday
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
Read MoreShare
Old Fogies Rule
Monday, March 14, 2022 By: Gregory J. Rediske
Old Fogies Rule!The Lakewood Key for March 11, 2022
Recently at a program committee meeting, President-elect Whalen paid a curious homage to me. He said that it is a good thing to get input from old-timers: meaning me, Greg, in this case. Old-timer?!? I don’t think I look like an “old-timer”. As long as the light is quite dim anyway. And I don’t feel like an “old-timer” either. Not counting the pain getting out of bed in the morning, bending down, or exiting a chair. And it’s not like people are calling me at 9 p.m. and immediately asking if I’m still awake. Yet. But if he thinks I’m an old-timer, then by golly, I might as well act the part, and write the part. So here we go as I bite the bullet and strike while the iron is hot to give you an old fogie’s version of the bulletin. According to Jason, I’m long in the tooth, but I haven’t kicked the bucket yet!
We’d mostly finished another square meal at the Club when President Jim got us going balls to the wall with the invocation from Jan Gee, who advocated for living our lives with Service Above Self and asking for mercy for those in Ukraine. Past President (long, long ago) Dave Coleman led us in the Pledge, with Steve Enquist running the Paul Harris table ($799!) and Terry Roarke selling raffle tickets (including one winning ticket). Connie Coleman-Lacadie was our greeter today; she must not be an “old-timer” because I heard nary a “howdy” or “see you later alligator”. Walt Richardson snapped pictures with that gigantic camera of his. Jumping Jehosophat, that thing has a long lens. Rob Erb dolloped major praise on the work of his committee, especially Tom George and Kendra Riconosciuto.
Announcements:
--Eric Warn, Health and Wellness: Mick Johnson’s celebration of life service is at the Tacoma Country and Golf Club, March 26, 2-5 p.m. Mary hopes all can attend. President Rooks will be the MC. Eric also thanked Bill Potter and Ron Irwin for glasses to recycle. Eric is beginning to get more glasses than Carter’s got pills, I tell ya.
--Gayle Selden: #1: Break bag delivery, March 28, 9:15 am. Be there or be square.
#2: Club Auction, May 21. Multicare and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health are sponsors so far. The auction committee is taking a “kinder and gentler” approach, with teams being cooperative groups. Kinder and Gentler might turn much nastier as we get closer to the event. Wake up and smell the coffee and get going, folks.
#3: Puyallup-South Hill has a new fundraiser, a cornhole tournament at the Fairgrounds. A team for Lakewood Rotary???
--Rose Stevens: Bob Zawilski and Rose are conducting tours of the eight Little Free Pantries. Call either one to set up your guided tour.
--President Jim: The District Governor will be making an informal second visit to us, March 25. Her big push is raising money for Ukrainians. Rose Stevens has some contacts as well, so stay tuned for ways that you can give. Think big. Also, My Rotary (www.ri.org) has ways to give as well.
New Member:
Welcome, Hank Kerns! Hank is not new to Rotary: former member at West Seattle, and Past President at Covington. Hank has taken over from Ron Messenger at New Tacoma Cemetery. He started in Rotary very early, as an exchange student to Guatemala. It’s gonna be a beautiful thing having Hank on board, I predict. The only fly in the ointment was that Veronica Bronkema forgot to bring the Puffin! This after being told in no uncertain terms to bring it to each meeting. She was heard to say, “Heavens to Murgatroyd! And fiddlesticks! And this is a fine kettle of fish!”, or words to that effect.
Above: New Member Hank Kerns wins raffle right out of the box!
Generous Giving:
After greeting all the Zoomers (Carole Wier, Don Daniels, Mary Horn, Barlow Buescher, Chuck Hellar, David Swindale, Leanna Christian, Wynn Hoffman, Nicole Hancock), Jim “thanked” his favorite Alaska bush pilot, Barb Spriggs, for his fining hat, and got right to it:
The Program:
Anne Enquist introduced a former colleague from Seattle University, John McKay. A Seattle native, John was appointed by George W. Bush to be US Attorney for Western Washington in 2001 but was forced out a few years later in a political purge. He taught ethics and leadership at Seattle U, retiring in 2021; meaning he’s busy doing many, many other things. He did human rights training in Palestine from 2013-2015.
In 2019, John was sent to join the State Department in Dubai, where twenty Afghan government ministers would be meeting for three days. The assignment was to determine responsibility for ownership of a database of people investigated by the United States in Afghanistan. He discovered that there was no plan, other than this basic desire for resolution of the problem. John called the State Department person in charge “disputatious”, and well-known as a bully. No help. John expressed his desire to the assembled Afghans for them to become servant leaders. He suggested that the database should be cloud based and co-owned by them all. This was not received well, but eventually was agreed upon, with all signing off. John’s point: if those 20 from Afghanistan could accept servant leadership, then why can’t we all. Interactions need respect, humility, and empathy if we want to have a brighter future. As for the ministers: several are likely dead or under house arrest. He concluded by saying that the Afghan fall was likely a failure of US policy, dating back for several administrations.
(My comment: Anne Enquist brings excellent speakers to Lakewood Rotary.)
Above: Our speaker and former US Attorney John McKay (All photos thanks to Walt Richardson)
The Drawing: After just seeding the pot with the $250 minimum after the recent win by Steve Enquist, new member Hank Kerns hit the jackpot: red chip! I believe I heard Hank declare, “Well, I’ll be a monkey’s uncle!!” And just like that, he was in like Flynn.
It’s almost warm enough to golf, so here you go to finish up this wild goose chase of a tale. Rest assured, it all came straight from the horse’s mouth. Or some other part of the anatomy…..
An Old Golfer was hitting his ball from near a water hazard and his club fell into the water.
When he cried out, the Lord appeared and asked, "Why are you crying?"
The golfer replied that his club had fallen into the water and he needed the club to have a chance to win the tournament and supplement his meager pension.
The Lord went down into the water and reappeared with a golden club.
"Is this your club?" the Lord asked.
The golfer replied, "No."
The Lord again went down and came up with a silver club.
"Is this your club?" the Lord asked.
Again, the golfer replied, "No." The Lord went down again and came up with an old iron club. "Is this your club?" the Lord asked.
The golfer replied, "Yes, that’s it!"
The Lord was pleased with the golfer's honesty and gave him all three clubs to keep, and the golfer won his tournament and went home happy.
Sometime later, the golfer was walking with his wife along the water hazard, and she fell into the lake.
When he cried out, the Lord again appeared and asked him, "Why are you crying?"
"Oh, Lord, my woman has fallen into the water!"
The Lord went into the water and reappeared with Kate Upton. "Is this your woman?" the Lord asked.
"Yes," cried the golfer.
The Lord was furious. "You lied! That is an untruth!"
The golfer replied, "Oh, forgive me Lord. It is a misunderstanding. You see, if I had said 'No' to Kate Upton, you would have come up with Jennifer Aniston. Then if I said 'No' to her, you would have come up with my woman. Had I then said 'Yes,' you would have given me all three. And Lord, I am an old man not able to take care of all three women in a way that they deserve... so that's why I said 'Yes' to Kate Upton.”
And God was pleased. The moral of this story is:
If a golfer ever tells a lie, it is for a good and honorable reason and only out of consideration for others.
Calendar of Upcoming LR Events: (if you have an item send it to me—Joe Quinn, Editor)
3/27-31 Sunriver Rotary Ski Trip (sold out)
3/28 Break Bag Delivery on a Monday
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
Announcements:
--Eric Warn, Health and Wellness: Mick Johnson’s celebration of life service is at the Tacoma Country and Golf Club, March 26, 2-5 p.m. Mary hopes all can attend. President Rooks will be the MC. Eric also thanked Bill Potter and Ron Irwin for glasses to recycle. Eric is beginning to get more glasses than Carter’s got pills, I tell ya.
--Gayle Selden: #1: Break bag delivery, March 28, 9:15 am. Be there or be square.
#2: Club Auction, May 21. Multicare and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health are sponsors so far. The auction committee is taking a “kinder and gentler” approach, with teams being cooperative groups. Kinder and Gentler might turn much nastier as we get closer to the event. Wake up and smell the coffee and get going, folks.
#3: Puyallup-South Hill has a new fundraiser, a cornhole tournament at the Fairgrounds. A team for Lakewood Rotary???
--Rose Stevens: Bob Zawilski and Rose are conducting tours of the eight Little Free Pantries. Call either one to set up your guided tour.
--President Jim: The District Governor will be making an informal second visit to us, March 25. Her big push is raising money for Ukrainians. Rose Stevens has some contacts as well, so stay tuned for ways that you can give. Think big. Also, My Rotary (www.ri.org) has ways to give as well.
New Member:
Welcome, Hank Kerns! Hank is not new to Rotary: former member at West Seattle, and Past President at Covington. Hank has taken over from Ron Messenger at New Tacoma Cemetery. He started in Rotary very early, as an exchange student to Guatemala. It’s gonna be a beautiful thing having Hank on board, I predict. The only fly in the ointment was that Veronica Bronkema forgot to bring the Puffin! This after being told in no uncertain terms to bring it to each meeting. She was heard to say, “Heavens to Murgatroyd! And fiddlesticks! And this is a fine kettle of fish!”, or words to that effect.
Above: New Member Hank Kerns wins raffle right out of the box!
Generous Giving:
After greeting all the Zoomers (Carole Wier, Don Daniels, Mary Horn, Barlow Buescher, Chuck Hellar, David Swindale, Leanna Christian, Wynn Hoffman, Nicole Hancock), Jim “thanked” his favorite Alaska bush pilot, Barb Spriggs, for his fining hat, and got right to it:
- Don Anderson went on a DC visit with 200 of his closest friends and got elected to a board (helping our military) for his efforts. He was the recipient of a free meal at the Four Seasons from his mentor of several decades. $20, I think.
- Wendy McGowan went to LA to attend the bat mitzvah of her youngest granddaughter, $20.
- Barb Spriggs, the aforementioned bush pilot made a return trip, all the way to the Arctic Circle. Not a flawless trip: she kind of had to scold Alaska Airlines to straighten up and fly right, but it was worth $50 to our club.
The Program:
Anne Enquist introduced a former colleague from Seattle University, John McKay. A Seattle native, John was appointed by George W. Bush to be US Attorney for Western Washington in 2001 but was forced out a few years later in a political purge. He taught ethics and leadership at Seattle U, retiring in 2021; meaning he’s busy doing many, many other things. He did human rights training in Palestine from 2013-2015.
In 2019, John was sent to join the State Department in Dubai, where twenty Afghan government ministers would be meeting for three days. The assignment was to determine responsibility for ownership of a database of people investigated by the United States in Afghanistan. He discovered that there was no plan, other than this basic desire for resolution of the problem. John called the State Department person in charge “disputatious”, and well-known as a bully. No help. John expressed his desire to the assembled Afghans for them to become servant leaders. He suggested that the database should be cloud based and co-owned by them all. This was not received well, but eventually was agreed upon, with all signing off. John’s point: if those 20 from Afghanistan could accept servant leadership, then why can’t we all. Interactions need respect, humility, and empathy if we want to have a brighter future. As for the ministers: several are likely dead or under house arrest. He concluded by saying that the Afghan fall was likely a failure of US policy, dating back for several administrations.
(My comment: Anne Enquist brings excellent speakers to Lakewood Rotary.)
Above: Our speaker and former US Attorney John McKay (All photos thanks to Walt Richardson)
The Drawing: After just seeding the pot with the $250 minimum after the recent win by Steve Enquist, new member Hank Kerns hit the jackpot: red chip! I believe I heard Hank declare, “Well, I’ll be a monkey’s uncle!!” And just like that, he was in like Flynn.
It’s almost warm enough to golf, so here you go to finish up this wild goose chase of a tale. Rest assured, it all came straight from the horse’s mouth. Or some other part of the anatomy…..
An Old Golfer was hitting his ball from near a water hazard and his club fell into the water.
When he cried out, the Lord appeared and asked, "Why are you crying?"
The golfer replied that his club had fallen into the water and he needed the club to have a chance to win the tournament and supplement his meager pension.
The Lord went down into the water and reappeared with a golden club.
"Is this your club?" the Lord asked.
The golfer replied, "No."
The Lord again went down and came up with a silver club.
"Is this your club?" the Lord asked.
Again, the golfer replied, "No." The Lord went down again and came up with an old iron club. "Is this your club?" the Lord asked.
The golfer replied, "Yes, that’s it!"
The Lord was pleased with the golfer's honesty and gave him all three clubs to keep, and the golfer won his tournament and went home happy.
Sometime later, the golfer was walking with his wife along the water hazard, and she fell into the lake.
When he cried out, the Lord again appeared and asked him, "Why are you crying?"
"Oh, Lord, my woman has fallen into the water!"
The Lord went into the water and reappeared with Kate Upton. "Is this your woman?" the Lord asked.
"Yes," cried the golfer.
The Lord was furious. "You lied! That is an untruth!"
The golfer replied, "Oh, forgive me Lord. It is a misunderstanding. You see, if I had said 'No' to Kate Upton, you would have come up with Jennifer Aniston. Then if I said 'No' to her, you would have come up with my woman. Had I then said 'Yes,' you would have given me all three. And Lord, I am an old man not able to take care of all three women in a way that they deserve... so that's why I said 'Yes' to Kate Upton.”
And God was pleased. The moral of this story is:
If a golfer ever tells a lie, it is for a good and honorable reason and only out of consideration for others.
Calendar of Upcoming LR Events: (if you have an item send it to me—Joe Quinn, Editor)
3/27-31 Sunriver Rotary Ski Trip (sold out)
3/28 Break Bag Delivery on a Monday
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
Read MoreShare
Nobody's Perfict!
Monday, March 7, 2022 By: Gayle Selden
Nobody’s Perfict!THE LAKEWOOD KEY
The March 5th meeting of the Rotary Club of Lakewood was called to order by President Jim Rooks. Barlow Buescher got us started with a reminder on the 4-way test and with a hope that we strive to be the best people we can. The pledge was led by Bob Martin.
President Rooks called on Charles Heberle for some insight into the Ukraine invasion by Russian forces. Charles lived in Russia for years teaching democracy. He also works on the Russian Friendship exchange for Rotary. He said this has been building for 30 years with the expansion of NATO toward Russia. There has been a difficult relationship with Russia since George W. Bush was President. Russia does not maintain its infrastructure well and has old tanks and equipment.
SETUP CREW:
The amazing setup crew was thanked! Rob Erb, James Osundwa, Rick Selden, Tom George (who showed up to set up and then left for a meeting--what dedication), Kendra Riconosciuto (who has super-labeled all the cords for easy setup and take down), Terry Roarke and new crew members Bob Martin and Dave Swindale.
President Jim thanked John Lowney for tabulating the fines, Jan Gee for staffing the raffle table and Sergeant at Arms, Gary Fulton for working the Foundation desk and Angela Connelly for working as the Greeter. Walt Richardson was the meeting photographer and Gayle Selden was the scribe.
Guests included Ron Irwin’s nephew Eric Borgert. Angela Connelly introduced Aubriana Harps, an intern with Tacoma Safe. Greg and Mary Horn had Grandson Asa on Zoom.
President Rooks announced the nomination committee recommended Carl Bronkema to replace Bob Bruback’s vacated board seat. The assembled Rotarians expressed their agreement.
Puffins were asked to stand and the other members were reminded to get to know our newer members.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS:
Eric Warn didn’t have much to add in the Health and Wellness report. But President Rooks encouraged us all to exercise and highlighted some members’ exercise activities. Eric Warn is into Water Aerobics and wants some gentlemen to join him! Our own President is a gym rat, bull editor Joe Quinn is a world class weightlifter, Walt Richardson is a cyclist, Gary Barton skates and plays hockey, Donna Phillips is a rowing machine maniac, Clayton DeNault is an avid hair brusher (‘er kayaker), and Bob Zawilski is a walker. President Jim says walking is good. Get active Lakewood Rotary! Doctor’s orders.
COMMUNITY CONCERNS:
Above: Rick Selden now
Rick Selden brought forth a couple projects from the Community Concerns committee. First was a proposal for $2500 donation to Caring for Kids. That proposal was moved, seconded and voted in the affirmative. Community Concerns is also giving the Lakewood Sister Cities Association $900 to bring dancers and entertainment to Summerfest. This request didn’t need a vote from the membership but Rick wanted all to know a new member, Connie Coleman-Lacadie, brought this to the committee. Please bring your ideas to support the community to this committee of Lakewood Rotary! There was a motion to give $2000 to Clare’s Closet at St Clare Hospital. This project, originally conceived by the hospital employees, provides clothing and other necessary items to patients when they are discharged. That was moved, seconded and passed as well. Great work Community Concerns team!
Above: Rick in 1987 (always smiling)
Greg Horn introduced Birthdays and Anniversaries and he kinda confused them so I thought I’d make a game out of it. Nobody’s perfect, not even Greg.
Match the Lakewood Rotary Member with their Birthday below:
Match the Member to their Partner and their wedding anniversary:
Congrats also to our Rotary Anniversaries:
Wait, that is incorrect on Magnuson as he was a member back in the olden days when pictures were taken in black and white. Maybe the math is just the cumulative total of time he has been telling Lakewood Rotary Ole and Sven stories.
Eric Borgert gave us a presentation on the Lakewood Arts Commission. He shared the signal box wraps that have been appearing all over town. Local business Print Northwest has been a major supporter of that project. He also shared a plan for a sculpture by John Fleming of Seattle at Motor Avenue and invited us to contribute to the sculpture by writing what Lakewood means to us. If you missed the opportunity, write out what this community means to you and scan it to smartinez@cityoflakewood.us.
Above: Eric Borgert
THE ROTARY FOUNDATION AND MICK JOHNSON:
Steve Enquist sent a note to the club: “Last week we were all shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Mick Johnson. Mick has been a dedicated Rotarian for as long as most of us can remember, and he was also one of our past presidents. In addition, Mick was an incredible supporter of the Rotary Foundation. In 2004, Mick reached the Major Donor Level 1 ($10,000) and his generosity to the Foundation has continued even after achieving this level. In fact, when he passed, he was close to reaching Level 2 ($25,000). Last week I was the lucky person to pull the red chip out of the bag and won $300+. It seems fitting to me that a great way to honor Mick’s memory and his decades of generosity to the Foundation would be to put the raffle winnings into the Foundation in Mick’s memory. I hope others will join me in honoring and remembering Mick.” Join Steve by donating online or at the desk at the meeting Friday. Jim Rooks pledged $50 immediately.
THE PROGRAM: Port of Tacoma
Above: An aerial view
Jan Gee introduced Kristin Ang, Port of Tacoma Commissioner since 2019. Kristin was born in Manila, the Philippines, but grew up in the Tacoma area. (She actually attended St. Charles Borromeo grade school; her sister Jessica was in the same class there as Eric Quinn! The Ed.) She earned a bachelor’s degree from UPS and a law degree from Cornell. However, Kristin didn’t end up making it to the meeting. (Nobody’s perfect.) But I think we were lucky to have Leslie Barstowe speak instead. Leslie is a Rotarian from Southcenter and works for the Port and its commissioners. She was a fantastic substitute speaker.
Above: Leslie
Leslie gave us a picture of the Port of Tacoma. Washington State is very trade-dependent; we import and export goods very evenly. The Port of Tacoma has been around for 103 years and currently directly supports 42,000 jobs.
Leslie shared the $76 million dollar Wapato Creek restoration project. In this project the Port and the Puyallup Tribe are trying to restore wetlands for salmon and other fish and wildlife. She shared pictures of a lot of dirt being moved and a very small fish already returning.
2005 saw the Port of Seattle and the Port of Tacoma join forces to help compete against the Port of Vancouver and other Canadian West Coast ports. It’s called the Northwest Seaport Alliance. One of the Alliance projects was to add huge cranes to unload the big ships. Tacoma has some installed now and Seattle is getting some installed in Terminal Five.
Leslie also talked about the current supply chain issue. In Los Angeles they had 80 ships waiting to come into port to unload. In Seattle they had 14 ships waiting to unload but in Tacoma the biggest number of ships waiting was three. However, once the container was unloaded it often had nowhere to go so right now there is a lot of property around the Port with containers just sitting on them, waiting for a truck driver to come and get them. Most products that come to Tacoma are headed to Chicago; the railroad system there has been having issues as well. This supply chain backlog may take quite some time to fix. I foresee many new 2021 refrigerators on clearance in 2024. I’m still waiting for mine.
Puffin Dwight Williams won the drawing and pulled a white chip worth $5.
The answer to the Birthday, Wedding anniversary, and Rotary anniversary jumble is to draw a straight line from left side to the right side. I didn’t mix them up. I was too worried a member might call their partner the wrong name and celebrate on the wrong day. It would be mayhem and it would all be Greg Horn’s fault. Nobody’s perfect.
Calendar of Upcoming LR Events: (if you have an item send it to me—Joe Quinn, Editor)
3/27-31 Sunriver Rotary Ski Trip (sold out)
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
The amazing setup crew was thanked! Rob Erb, James Osundwa, Rick Selden, Tom George (who showed up to set up and then left for a meeting--what dedication), Kendra Riconosciuto (who has super-labeled all the cords for easy setup and take down), Terry Roarke and new crew members Bob Martin and Dave Swindale.
President Jim thanked John Lowney for tabulating the fines, Jan Gee for staffing the raffle table and Sergeant at Arms, Gary Fulton for working the Foundation desk and Angela Connelly for working as the Greeter. Walt Richardson was the meeting photographer and Gayle Selden was the scribe.
Guests included Ron Irwin’s nephew Eric Borgert. Angela Connelly introduced Aubriana Harps, an intern with Tacoma Safe. Greg and Mary Horn had Grandson Asa on Zoom.
President Rooks announced the nomination committee recommended Carl Bronkema to replace Bob Bruback’s vacated board seat. The assembled Rotarians expressed their agreement.
Puffins were asked to stand and the other members were reminded to get to know our newer members.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS:
Eric Warn didn’t have much to add in the Health and Wellness report. But President Rooks encouraged us all to exercise and highlighted some members’ exercise activities. Eric Warn is into Water Aerobics and wants some gentlemen to join him! Our own President is a gym rat, bull editor Joe Quinn is a world class weightlifter, Walt Richardson is a cyclist, Gary Barton skates and plays hockey, Donna Phillips is a rowing machine maniac, Clayton DeNault is an avid hair brusher (‘er kayaker), and Bob Zawilski is a walker. President Jim says walking is good. Get active Lakewood Rotary! Doctor’s orders.
COMMUNITY CONCERNS:
Above: Rick Selden now
Rick Selden brought forth a couple projects from the Community Concerns committee. First was a proposal for $2500 donation to Caring for Kids. That proposal was moved, seconded and voted in the affirmative. Community Concerns is also giving the Lakewood Sister Cities Association $900 to bring dancers and entertainment to Summerfest. This request didn’t need a vote from the membership but Rick wanted all to know a new member, Connie Coleman-Lacadie, brought this to the committee. Please bring your ideas to support the community to this committee of Lakewood Rotary! There was a motion to give $2000 to Clare’s Closet at St Clare Hospital. This project, originally conceived by the hospital employees, provides clothing and other necessary items to patients when they are discharged. That was moved, seconded and passed as well. Great work Community Concerns team!
Above: Rick in 1987 (always smiling)
Greg Horn introduced Birthdays and Anniversaries and he kinda confused them so I thought I’d make a game out of it. Nobody’s perfect, not even Greg.
Match the Lakewood Rotary Member with their Birthday below:
| Banner, Ron (RON) | 28-Mar |
| Easter, Chris (CHRIS) | 5-Mar |
| Hoffman, Vaughn W. (VAUGHN) | 25-Mar |
| Lewis, Michael A. (MICHAEL) | 11-Mar |
| Marsh, Peter K (PETER) | 30-Mar |
| Quinn, Eric T (ERIC) | 11-Mar |
| Richardson, L Walter (WALT) | 26-Mar |
| Riconosciuto, Kendra Leeann (KENDRA) | 8-Mar |
| Strait, Joan (JOAN) | 31-Mar |
| Swindale, David (DAVID) | 20-Mar |
| Bronkema, Veronica (VERONICA) | 22-Mar |
| Kerns, Henry (HANK) | 11-Mar |
Match the Member to their Partner and their wedding anniversary:
| Murtha, Michael (MIKE) | Paula | 15-Mar | 6 |
| Guerrero, James R. (JAMES) | Susan | 1-Mar | 26 |
| Johnson, Lowell (LOWELL) | Rondi | 14-Mar | 30 |
| Edgecomb, Mark Edward (MARK) | Nicola | 5-Mar | 34 |
| Coleman, David (DAVID) | Joyce | 29-Mar | 53 |
Congrats also to our Rotary Anniversaries:
| Montgomery, Edward R. (BUD) | 3/1/1988 | 34 |
| Rooks, John James Jr.(JIM) | 3/1/1990 | 32 |
| Hyde, Charles H. III(CHARLIE) | 3/1/1993 | 29 |
| Horn, Gregory S. (GREG) | 3/1/1996 | 26 |
| Wulfestieg, Paul C. (PAUL) | 3/26/1999 | 23 |
| Lewis, Michael A. (MICHAEL) | 3/26/1999 | 23 |
| Northcutt, Morris (MORRIS) | 3/17/2006 | 16 |
| Enquist, Stephen T. (STEVE) | 3/12/2010 | 12 |
| Forkenbrock, John R (JOHN) | 3/13/2015 | 7 |
| Magnuson, John W. (JOHN) | 3/1/2019 | 3 |
| Mazoff, Rachel (RACHEL) | 3/5/2021 | 1 |
Wait, that is incorrect on Magnuson as he was a member back in the olden days when pictures were taken in black and white. Maybe the math is just the cumulative total of time he has been telling Lakewood Rotary Ole and Sven stories.
Eric Borgert gave us a presentation on the Lakewood Arts Commission. He shared the signal box wraps that have been appearing all over town. Local business Print Northwest has been a major supporter of that project. He also shared a plan for a sculpture by John Fleming of Seattle at Motor Avenue and invited us to contribute to the sculpture by writing what Lakewood means to us. If you missed the opportunity, write out what this community means to you and scan it to smartinez@cityoflakewood.us.
Above: Eric Borgert
THE ROTARY FOUNDATION AND MICK JOHNSON:
Steve Enquist sent a note to the club: “Last week we were all shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Mick Johnson. Mick has been a dedicated Rotarian for as long as most of us can remember, and he was also one of our past presidents. In addition, Mick was an incredible supporter of the Rotary Foundation. In 2004, Mick reached the Major Donor Level 1 ($10,000) and his generosity to the Foundation has continued even after achieving this level. In fact, when he passed, he was close to reaching Level 2 ($25,000). Last week I was the lucky person to pull the red chip out of the bag and won $300+. It seems fitting to me that a great way to honor Mick’s memory and his decades of generosity to the Foundation would be to put the raffle winnings into the Foundation in Mick’s memory. I hope others will join me in honoring and remembering Mick.” Join Steve by donating online or at the desk at the meeting Friday. Jim Rooks pledged $50 immediately.
THE PROGRAM: Port of Tacoma
Above: An aerial view
Jan Gee introduced Kristin Ang, Port of Tacoma Commissioner since 2019. Kristin was born in Manila, the Philippines, but grew up in the Tacoma area. (She actually attended St. Charles Borromeo grade school; her sister Jessica was in the same class there as Eric Quinn! The Ed.) She earned a bachelor’s degree from UPS and a law degree from Cornell. However, Kristin didn’t end up making it to the meeting. (Nobody’s perfect.) But I think we were lucky to have Leslie Barstowe speak instead. Leslie is a Rotarian from Southcenter and works for the Port and its commissioners. She was a fantastic substitute speaker.
Above: Leslie
Leslie gave us a picture of the Port of Tacoma. Washington State is very trade-dependent; we import and export goods very evenly. The Port of Tacoma has been around for 103 years and currently directly supports 42,000 jobs.
Leslie shared the $76 million dollar Wapato Creek restoration project. In this project the Port and the Puyallup Tribe are trying to restore wetlands for salmon and other fish and wildlife. She shared pictures of a lot of dirt being moved and a very small fish already returning.
2005 saw the Port of Seattle and the Port of Tacoma join forces to help compete against the Port of Vancouver and other Canadian West Coast ports. It’s called the Northwest Seaport Alliance. One of the Alliance projects was to add huge cranes to unload the big ships. Tacoma has some installed now and Seattle is getting some installed in Terminal Five.
Leslie also talked about the current supply chain issue. In Los Angeles they had 80 ships waiting to come into port to unload. In Seattle they had 14 ships waiting to unload but in Tacoma the biggest number of ships waiting was three. However, once the container was unloaded it often had nowhere to go so right now there is a lot of property around the Port with containers just sitting on them, waiting for a truck driver to come and get them. Most products that come to Tacoma are headed to Chicago; the railroad system there has been having issues as well. This supply chain backlog may take quite some time to fix. I foresee many new 2021 refrigerators on clearance in 2024. I’m still waiting for mine.
Puffin Dwight Williams won the drawing and pulled a white chip worth $5.
The answer to the Birthday, Wedding anniversary, and Rotary anniversary jumble is to draw a straight line from left side to the right side. I didn’t mix them up. I was too worried a member might call their partner the wrong name and celebrate on the wrong day. It would be mayhem and it would all be Greg Horn’s fault. Nobody’s perfect.
Calendar of Upcoming LR Events: (if you have an item send it to me—Joe Quinn, Editor)
3/27-31 Sunriver Rotary Ski Trip (sold out)
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
Read MoreShare
A Day of Special Significance
Sunday, February 27, 2022 By: Eric T Quinn
A Day of Special SignificanceTHE LAKEWOOD KEY
President Jim Rooks (PJR) rang the meeting to order at 12:30 PM.
Tom George gave our invocation, citing to three principles: truth, peace and honesty. In his invocation, he asked that we let these tenets, and the Four-Way Test of Rotary, guide us in our everyday life.
Greg Rediske led us in the Pledge, which took special significance given the state of affairs in the Ukraine.
As for those who made our meeting happen, in the absence of Rob Erb, James Osundwa completed the setup with the help of Duncan Cook and Terry Roarke. John Lowney collected fines. Eric Quinn wrote the bulletin from Zoom and implored participants at least twice to use the microphones so he could accurately (and somewhat adequately) record the meeting. Greg Horn sold raffle tickets and Mary Marlin was at the Foundation desk. Andy Phillips was our greeter. Bob Hammar staffed the Rotary Store.
Eric Warn provided the health and wellness report. Two Lakewood Rotary members have passed recently: Mick Johnson and Larry Banks
PJR and other members of the club lauded Mick as a man of special significance. He had been a member since 1986. Mick was a prominent member of the business community and a wonderful man. Rick Selden informed us that Mick started his business as a carpet cleaning company in the 1970’s. He was one of the founding members of the Abbey Carpet group. Rick mentioned that Mick believed in healthy competition and stated, quite humbly, that “You don’t mind losing a job to a fellow like that.” Mick lived his faith, although he came to it later in life. We will miss you, Mick. Indeed, here is a short bio (and picture) of Mick, originally written by Kay Shinn in 1987 and updated by Greg Rediske one or two years ago.
Mick Johnson (By Kay Shinn, 1987)
His name is really “Michael”, but nobody knows that….he’s gotta be “Mick.” Mick is one of our new breed of members. He hasn’t been with us very long, but he’s been busy! He was born in Tacoma during April of 1944, attended Clover Park High School and Central Washington College. His wife is Cynthia and up to now they have one child, a son, Christopher. (And if anyone reads any hidden meaning in that last sentence, it is intentional!) Mick is the President of Abbey Carpet, which is located at 8615 South Tacoma Way (well, it was then). He is a heckova good golfer, all year round, and he skis when the time is right. He has been active with our new member Puffins, and he is now on our program committee.
Update from 1987: Mick served as president of our club in 2010-11. He has been a stalwart on the Paul Harris Committee for decades. If something needs doing, Mick is there, always. Mick is still working at his Abbey Carpet store with his wife Mary Covelli Johnson (married in 1998), as he nears 78 years old.
Above: Mick Johnson in 1987
PJR expressed that Lary Banks was an excellent Rotarian. He was a chiropractor in the Lakewood area.
As for Announcements:
Above: Puffin Bob Martin and his wife Sue, on a day of special significance
As for guests, Bob Martin introduced wife Sue, who enjoyed 50% of his first PHA. Duncan Cook’s son Peter was also with us. On May 6th, Peter will be our Program Speaker, about the Titanic. There were some other guests, we think, but they were introduced without the use of a microphone and the bulletin writer was on Zoom. Alas. We think one was named Hank, who is Ron Messenger’s successor as Director of the New Tacoma Cemetery, and we think he should be a LR Rotarian, don’t you?
There were further announcements. From PJR: There will be discussions at the Board meeting, pertaining to the Club’s COVID policy. The present policy is that non-vaccinated members cannot attend in-person meetings. PJR encouraged members to contact a Director with their thoughts on this prior to the next BOD meeting on March 17.
The Pierce County Rotary Presidents discussed an Earth Day Celebration. There will be a cleanup and picnic at Fort Steilacoom Park. From President-Elect Jason Whalen: This will be a great way to celebrate Earth Day and Parks Appreciation Day on the same weekend. Earth Day is April 23.
May 21 is the date of the Auction—the committee is working on a projected launch date for the Maxgiving website, as we are doing another virtual auction this year.
Mary Marlin was speaking with Sally Smith, who has done so much for the Auction in the past. We have a lot of Puffins who have not had much opportunity to help with the Auction. There is a meeting next Friday, about how members can help out with the Auction. This will occur immediately after the regular meeting, 1:30 to 2:30 PM.
Generous Giving: (not all of which were captured because of microphone “malfunctions”)
Above: Debbie Moore
Barlow Buescher introduced Debbie Moore, which commenced the program on Partners for Work, an organization of special significance. This has been a District 5030 project since 2008, and has resulted in approximately 140 jobs for individuals with disabilities. Debbie Moore has a long history of assisting individuals with disabilities with their career goals. Debbie has some amazing stories. Barlow stated that Debbie “reminds him to be human.” Debbie thanked Barlow for his introduction. Debbie has been the coordinator for District 5030 in this area since 2010. She can say wholeheartedly that Partners for Work is making outstanding changes in King County. Sky Chafee introduced Margaret Connor, but not before we learned more about him. Sky Chafee is the director of Morningside, an employment provider. Learn more about Morningside here: https://www.morningsideservices.com/
Morningside partners with local employers to enact a School to Work program for young adults with disabilities. Once Morningside helps the individual obtain a job, they then receive job coaching. This is truly a “beginning to end” transition program.
Margaret Connor then spoke a bit more about Partners For Work. She shared a success story regarding Soleil, a beneficiary of the Transition team led by Margaret. Soleil now has a job doing amazing cleaning and sanitization work at Chuck E. Cheese. She loves her job and Chuck E. Cheese loves her.
Margaret is from New York and she advised us that we would “hear that and we would see that.”
Margaret shared some inspirational videos of three young adults who have succeeded in the work they obtained through Partners for Work (and through their own grit and determination): Amy, Casey and Lexi.
Margaret implored us to develop an understanding and an open mind in helping individuals with disabilities in finding work. Margaret mentioned to everyone that her contact information is available and she is available for questions. And learn more about Partners for Work here: https://www.gowise.org/what-we-do/partners-for-work/
And finally, for the Drawing: There were 16 White and One Red chip. Steve Enquist drew the RED chip! But alas, our Zoom bulletin writer did not hear how much Steve won. Actually, no one said how much it was but it was a lot more than $5.
Above: Steve Enquist and a look of disbelief!
(All candid photos thanks to Walt Richardson)
Thus ended a day of special significance. Another note of special significance: Please do your online shopping at Amazon Smile, so a portion of your purchase can be allocated to Lakewood Rotary.
And do not forget these days of special significance to all Lakewood Rotarians:
Calendar of Upcoming LR Events: (if you have an item send it to me—Joe Quinn, Editor)
3/27-31 Sunriver Rotary Ski Trip (sold out)
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
PJR and other members of the club lauded Mick as a man of special significance. He had been a member since 1986. Mick was a prominent member of the business community and a wonderful man. Rick Selden informed us that Mick started his business as a carpet cleaning company in the 1970’s. He was one of the founding members of the Abbey Carpet group. Rick mentioned that Mick believed in healthy competition and stated, quite humbly, that “You don’t mind losing a job to a fellow like that.” Mick lived his faith, although he came to it later in life. We will miss you, Mick. Indeed, here is a short bio (and picture) of Mick, originally written by Kay Shinn in 1987 and updated by Greg Rediske one or two years ago.
Mick Johnson (By Kay Shinn, 1987)
His name is really “Michael”, but nobody knows that….he’s gotta be “Mick.” Mick is one of our new breed of members. He hasn’t been with us very long, but he’s been busy! He was born in Tacoma during April of 1944, attended Clover Park High School and Central Washington College. His wife is Cynthia and up to now they have one child, a son, Christopher. (And if anyone reads any hidden meaning in that last sentence, it is intentional!) Mick is the President of Abbey Carpet, which is located at 8615 South Tacoma Way (well, it was then). He is a heckova good golfer, all year round, and he skis when the time is right. He has been active with our new member Puffins, and he is now on our program committee.
Update from 1987: Mick served as president of our club in 2010-11. He has been a stalwart on the Paul Harris Committee for decades. If something needs doing, Mick is there, always. Mick is still working at his Abbey Carpet store with his wife Mary Covelli Johnson (married in 1998), as he nears 78 years old.
Above: Mick Johnson in 1987
PJR expressed that Lary Banks was an excellent Rotarian. He was a chiropractor in the Lakewood area.
As for Announcements:
- Rob Erb was absent, but he sought approval from the Club for the Military Appreciation Committee, for a $2000 grant to the Lewis McChord Family Scholarships. These scholarships provide support to children of military families. A motion was made, seconded and passed unanimously.
- Steve Enquist spoke about the Rotary Foundation. Three Paul Harris awards (PHA) were issued today, a day of special significance. Bob Martin received his first Paul Harris, presented by his wife Sue. Duncan Cook earned his fourth PHA. Gayle Selden also received a PHA by signing up on Rotary Direct. This is Gayle’s fourth PHA. Steve pointed out that 40% of the Lakewood Rotary membership has given at least $25.00 for the Rotary Year (Eric believes he heard this). A gift of $100 to the Paul Harris Annual Fund will get you listed as a sustaining member
- All Puffins stood up and were applauded.
- Dwight Williams received his blue badge. He gave John Lowney $5.00 for the privilege
Above: Puffin Bob Martin and his wife Sue, on a day of special significance
As for guests, Bob Martin introduced wife Sue, who enjoyed 50% of his first PHA. Duncan Cook’s son Peter was also with us. On May 6th, Peter will be our Program Speaker, about the Titanic. There were some other guests, we think, but they were introduced without the use of a microphone and the bulletin writer was on Zoom. Alas. We think one was named Hank, who is Ron Messenger’s successor as Director of the New Tacoma Cemetery, and we think he should be a LR Rotarian, don’t you?
There were further announcements. From PJR: There will be discussions at the Board meeting, pertaining to the Club’s COVID policy. The present policy is that non-vaccinated members cannot attend in-person meetings. PJR encouraged members to contact a Director with their thoughts on this prior to the next BOD meeting on March 17.
The Pierce County Rotary Presidents discussed an Earth Day Celebration. There will be a cleanup and picnic at Fort Steilacoom Park. From President-Elect Jason Whalen: This will be a great way to celebrate Earth Day and Parks Appreciation Day on the same weekend. Earth Day is April 23.
May 21 is the date of the Auction—the committee is working on a projected launch date for the Maxgiving website, as we are doing another virtual auction this year.
Mary Marlin was speaking with Sally Smith, who has done so much for the Auction in the past. We have a lot of Puffins who have not had much opportunity to help with the Auction. There is a meeting next Friday, about how members can help out with the Auction. This will occur immediately after the regular meeting, 1:30 to 2:30 PM.
Generous Giving: (not all of which were captured because of microphone “malfunctions”)
- Don Daniels went to Phoenix and Mexico for a month. He gave $50 for the fine budget and $50 to the Foundation.
- Scott Buser: Quality grandparent time down in Long Beach CA. $100.
- Andrew Neiditz and his wife took a short trip to Palm Springs and Scottsdale AZ. $25.00
- Sally Smith: Thanked Mary Marlin for recruiting. She added one thing: She will be in person next week for the meeting after the regular meeting. Sally gave $25.00.
- Jim Rooks put in $20.00 in honor of the Foundation
- Joe Quinn: $20 for trip to Lake Tahoe to see grandkids
- PROGRAM
Above: Debbie Moore
Barlow Buescher introduced Debbie Moore, which commenced the program on Partners for Work, an organization of special significance. This has been a District 5030 project since 2008, and has resulted in approximately 140 jobs for individuals with disabilities. Debbie Moore has a long history of assisting individuals with disabilities with their career goals. Debbie has some amazing stories. Barlow stated that Debbie “reminds him to be human.” Debbie thanked Barlow for his introduction. Debbie has been the coordinator for District 5030 in this area since 2010. She can say wholeheartedly that Partners for Work is making outstanding changes in King County. Sky Chafee introduced Margaret Connor, but not before we learned more about him. Sky Chafee is the director of Morningside, an employment provider. Learn more about Morningside here: https://www.morningsideservices.com/
Morningside partners with local employers to enact a School to Work program for young adults with disabilities. Once Morningside helps the individual obtain a job, they then receive job coaching. This is truly a “beginning to end” transition program.
Margaret Connor then spoke a bit more about Partners For Work. She shared a success story regarding Soleil, a beneficiary of the Transition team led by Margaret. Soleil now has a job doing amazing cleaning and sanitization work at Chuck E. Cheese. She loves her job and Chuck E. Cheese loves her.
Margaret is from New York and she advised us that we would “hear that and we would see that.”
Margaret shared some inspirational videos of three young adults who have succeeded in the work they obtained through Partners for Work (and through their own grit and determination): Amy, Casey and Lexi.
Margaret implored us to develop an understanding and an open mind in helping individuals with disabilities in finding work. Margaret mentioned to everyone that her contact information is available and she is available for questions. And learn more about Partners for Work here: https://www.gowise.org/what-we-do/partners-for-work/
And finally, for the Drawing: There were 16 White and One Red chip. Steve Enquist drew the RED chip! But alas, our Zoom bulletin writer did not hear how much Steve won. Actually, no one said how much it was but it was a lot more than $5.
Above: Steve Enquist and a look of disbelief!
(All candid photos thanks to Walt Richardson)
Thus ended a day of special significance. Another note of special significance: Please do your online shopping at Amazon Smile, so a portion of your purchase can be allocated to Lakewood Rotary.
And do not forget these days of special significance to all Lakewood Rotarians:
Calendar of Upcoming LR Events: (if you have an item send it to me—Joe Quinn, Editor)
3/27-31 Sunriver Rotary Ski Trip (sold out)
5/21 Lakewood Rotary Auction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/20-21 The Courage
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
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A Fort Steilacoom Friday
Monday, February 21, 2022 By: Paula T. Olson
A Fort Steilacoom FridayTHE LAKEWOOD KEY
Paula T. Olson
Friday, February 18, 2022 started like any other day and Lakewood Rotary’s meeting did as well. President Rooks rang the bell promptly and Bob Peterson gave the invocation. Wendy McGowan did a fine job of leading us in the Pledge of Allegiance. President Rooks congratulated Rob Erb and his fine team of meeting organizers: Tom George, James Osundwa, Rick Selden, Bob Martin and Kendra Riconosciuto for another excellent job. John Lowney had his hand out for all fines, Paula Olson took furious notes for the Bulletin, Barlow Buescher manned the $2.00 table and served as Sgt at Arms, and Eric Warn collected money at the Foundation desk. We’re not sure what this means but President Rooks said it, so we dutifully wrote it down: Greg Rediske monitored the Presidential gaffes (looking the term up was a fascinating experience I recommend to all but in the interest of decorum the definition will not be repeated here) and Mary Marlin, the new and official coordinator of Greeters had Bob Martin and Veronica Bronkema out there warmly shaking hands of members when they came in.
Alas, no visiting Rotarians and no guests. It is with sadness that President Rooks announced the resignation of Bob Bruback because of a medical issue. Steve Enquist will temporarily fill Bob’s role as the Chair of the Community Concerns Committee until a permanent chair can be found. Puffins in attendance included James Osundwa, Wendy McGowan, Bob Martin, Andy Phillips, and Veronica Bronkema.
Above; Our Newest Puffin, Veronica Bronkema
Next, a solemn passing and answer to an oft-expressed request. Yes, Veronica Bronkema repeatedly asked, “Where’s the bird? Where’s the bird?” Lest you think she means something different, she was asking where her Puffin was. Eric Warn presented her with the bird and explained the basics of puffin care. If she had any questions, husband Carl Bronkema could help out. Eric stayed up at the podium to ask members to go the distance. He is collecting eye glasses for Lakewood First Lions and is often told by Rotary members of the many pairs of eye glasses lying around the house. Eric pleaded with members to “put them in the car.” Then, on Friday around noon, “take them out of the car,” and “bring them to him.” Everyone got that? Eric reminded members that the glasses can’t get here on their own. They need transportation. President Rooks demonstrated what old eye glasses look like by modeling his old aviator glasses.
President Rooks announced the announcements. Mick Johnson is in need of our thoughts and prayers as he is suffering from dementia and is bed ridden. Since Sally Porter Smith, Rotarian Extraordinaire moved to Seattle, Greg Horn is subbing in as Chair of the Program Committee. He knows he can’t fill her shoes but he’s going to give it a huge try. President Rooks read us a thank you card from the family that Rose Stevens introduced us to. It was our pleasure! Next Gayle Selden got up to announce yet another Auction. Seems like we just got done with our last auction. It’s a virtual event to be held on May 21st. Gayle said the committee can’t do it without our procurement and support. Then Gayle went rogue. She said that the Auction Committee needed new members to get fresh and new ideas. Guess all of us old members can see the handwriting on the wall. We are being replaced! She’ll probably keep a couple of us around but you youngsters better step up. She also said that we have our first auction sponsor: Multicare for $1,000, thanks to Steve Saalfeld.
President Rooks said the IT group that does the hybrid meetings is getting burned out and need a new influx of assistants. He promised it would be easy and no formal education was required. In fact, Jim said that when Kendra was showing him how to set up the board meeting, he actually kinda sorta figured it out. Jim also says that the tooth fairy is real too. If the hybrid process involves more than two clicks, it’s totally over my head. But it’s time for the rest of you to show your techie skills and get over there and help run the zoom thingy
.
Generous Giving:
President Jim donned his lion hunting hat as he went in search of prey for fines and donations. First up was Terry Roarke with $20 for his two weeks in Hawaii. He said he would have given more but the Hawaiians took the rest of his money. Likely story. Rob Erb gave $20 for his assistant. Jim Rooks kicked in to honor Kendra Riconosciuto for her help at the board meeting.
The Program:
Above: Andrew Neiditz
Andrew Neiditz introduced our speaker, Walter Neary, who is Lakewood’s historian. Walter has written two books on Lakewood’s history. As Board President of the Historic Fort Steilacoom Association, and member of the Lakewood Historical Society, he helped establish the Lakewood Historical Museum, and was the first Chair of the Landmarks and Heritage Advisory Board for the City of Lakewood. For financial support, he is a Manager of the UW School of Medicine. But it seemed like Walter has another claim to fame, which was only hinted at. Apparently he was partially responsible for naming Andrew Neiditz as the first Lakewood City Manager after the brawl and food fight. Sorry folks, I can’t give you more details but it sounded like a fun time.
Walter talked to us about the history of Fort Steilacoom, that little area on the grounds of Western State Hospital. Originally, the area of the fort was 640 acres and it was the first institution in Washington. It has been shadowed and protected by Western State and is bordered by Pierce College, Fort Steilacoom Park, and Oakbrook. Walter’s dream is reinventing Fort Steilacoom so that more people visit and understand its history. He urged members to join the Historical Fort Steilacoom Association for a nominal fee and get the latest events.
Steilacoom is a Native American word for a flower. The Nisqually Tribe originally lived on the land that became the fort until about the 1840s. In 1840 the British came and created a farm bringing 80 settlers from Canada. One of those settlers was John Flett, who returned and became a businessman in what would become Lakewood. The farm was not a success due to the rocks and gravel in the soil. The last farm left in 1849.
The US Army came next and erected buildings including officers’ quarters. These became the first fort in Puget Sound and Lt. August Kautz was in charge. Since the land belonged to the British, the Army paid rent of $50 a year. Some wives came but not daughters because of the Germans and the Irish who were considered unsavory for them. There was some intermarriage between the soldiers and the natives, including Lt. Kautz. There are about 50 descendants of Lt. Kautz in the Nisqually Tribe.
Above: Walter Neary, our speaker and historian
Beginning in the 1850s, the Native Americans were getting more unhappy about getting squeezed out by settlers and the Indians were forced to move to Fox Island, a place too small for them. A war finally broke out between the settlers and the natives.. The settlers took refuge in the fort. A group from Oregon came with the intent of finishing the conflict once and for all. The culmination of the conflict was the hanging of Chief Leschi after a trial where he was falsely accused of murder. He was jailed at Fort Steilacoom and his brother was murdered there as well. (He was officially exonerated in 2004.) Lt. Kautz testified on Chief Leschi’s behalf. Lt. Kautz later became a general. The natives were pretty much decimated as more Europeans came with diseases, making it easier to take their land.
The fort was finally abandoned and Western State Hospital was built. The chapel of the fort was the first women’s ward for the hospital The building comprising the fort fell into ruins and would have been completely deteriorated but for the hard work and dedication of a group of volunteers called the Historic Fort Steilacoom Association. They started in the late 1970s and renovated the buildings amid lots of politics and naysayers. They started having events there to highlight the history of the fort and surrounding area. Because the buildings were the oldest buildings in Washington, it was hugely important to the volunteers to preserve them.
The relationship between Western State Hospital and Fort Steilacoom is unusual. It had to cooperate with the city and the area became a historic district. The hospital has always provided security for the fort and gave ready access to the volunteers.
There has been confusion between the Town of Steilacoom and Fort Steilacoom but they are very different entities. In 1996, Lakewood was incorporated as a city. As one of the founders of the City of Lakewood, Walter told the story that there was another Lakewood up north around Bellingham. The Post Office wouldn’t put Lakewood on addresses, instead requiring Lakewood Center as the designation. Andrew was responsible for getting the sign for Lakewood taken down around Marysville, finally putting an end to the confusion.
Thank you, Walter, for a snapshot of the interesting history of the fort. I know I, for one, will want to visit as soon as possible to learn more.
Donnnnnn Irwin won the raffle but not the $500 cash. Sorry, Donnnnn, better luck next time.
Above; Our Newest Puffin, Veronica Bronkema
Next, a solemn passing and answer to an oft-expressed request. Yes, Veronica Bronkema repeatedly asked, “Where’s the bird? Where’s the bird?” Lest you think she means something different, she was asking where her Puffin was. Eric Warn presented her with the bird and explained the basics of puffin care. If she had any questions, husband Carl Bronkema could help out. Eric stayed up at the podium to ask members to go the distance. He is collecting eye glasses for Lakewood First Lions and is often told by Rotary members of the many pairs of eye glasses lying around the house. Eric pleaded with members to “put them in the car.” Then, on Friday around noon, “take them out of the car,” and “bring them to him.” Everyone got that? Eric reminded members that the glasses can’t get here on their own. They need transportation. President Rooks demonstrated what old eye glasses look like by modeling his old aviator glasses.
President Rooks announced the announcements. Mick Johnson is in need of our thoughts and prayers as he is suffering from dementia and is bed ridden. Since Sally Porter Smith, Rotarian Extraordinaire moved to Seattle, Greg Horn is subbing in as Chair of the Program Committee. He knows he can’t fill her shoes but he’s going to give it a huge try. President Rooks read us a thank you card from the family that Rose Stevens introduced us to. It was our pleasure! Next Gayle Selden got up to announce yet another Auction. Seems like we just got done with our last auction. It’s a virtual event to be held on May 21st. Gayle said the committee can’t do it without our procurement and support. Then Gayle went rogue. She said that the Auction Committee needed new members to get fresh and new ideas. Guess all of us old members can see the handwriting on the wall. We are being replaced! She’ll probably keep a couple of us around but you youngsters better step up. She also said that we have our first auction sponsor: Multicare for $1,000, thanks to Steve Saalfeld.
President Rooks said the IT group that does the hybrid meetings is getting burned out and need a new influx of assistants. He promised it would be easy and no formal education was required. In fact, Jim said that when Kendra was showing him how to set up the board meeting, he actually kinda sorta figured it out. Jim also says that the tooth fairy is real too. If the hybrid process involves more than two clicks, it’s totally over my head. But it’s time for the rest of you to show your techie skills and get over there and help run the zoom thingy
.
Generous Giving:
President Jim donned his lion hunting hat as he went in search of prey for fines and donations. First up was Terry Roarke with $20 for his two weeks in Hawaii. He said he would have given more but the Hawaiians took the rest of his money. Likely story. Rob Erb gave $20 for his assistant. Jim Rooks kicked in to honor Kendra Riconosciuto for her help at the board meeting.
The Program:
Above: Andrew Neiditz
Andrew Neiditz introduced our speaker, Walter Neary, who is Lakewood’s historian. Walter has written two books on Lakewood’s history. As Board President of the Historic Fort Steilacoom Association, and member of the Lakewood Historical Society, he helped establish the Lakewood Historical Museum, and was the first Chair of the Landmarks and Heritage Advisory Board for the City of Lakewood. For financial support, he is a Manager of the UW School of Medicine. But it seemed like Walter has another claim to fame, which was only hinted at. Apparently he was partially responsible for naming Andrew Neiditz as the first Lakewood City Manager after the brawl and food fight. Sorry folks, I can’t give you more details but it sounded like a fun time.
Walter talked to us about the history of Fort Steilacoom, that little area on the grounds of Western State Hospital. Originally, the area of the fort was 640 acres and it was the first institution in Washington. It has been shadowed and protected by Western State and is bordered by Pierce College, Fort Steilacoom Park, and Oakbrook. Walter’s dream is reinventing Fort Steilacoom so that more people visit and understand its history. He urged members to join the Historical Fort Steilacoom Association for a nominal fee and get the latest events.
Steilacoom is a Native American word for a flower. The Nisqually Tribe originally lived on the land that became the fort until about the 1840s. In 1840 the British came and created a farm bringing 80 settlers from Canada. One of those settlers was John Flett, who returned and became a businessman in what would become Lakewood. The farm was not a success due to the rocks and gravel in the soil. The last farm left in 1849.
The US Army came next and erected buildings including officers’ quarters. These became the first fort in Puget Sound and Lt. August Kautz was in charge. Since the land belonged to the British, the Army paid rent of $50 a year. Some wives came but not daughters because of the Germans and the Irish who were considered unsavory for them. There was some intermarriage between the soldiers and the natives, including Lt. Kautz. There are about 50 descendants of Lt. Kautz in the Nisqually Tribe.
Above: Walter Neary, our speaker and historian
Beginning in the 1850s, the Native Americans were getting more unhappy about getting squeezed out by settlers and the Indians were forced to move to Fox Island, a place too small for them. A war finally broke out between the settlers and the natives.. The settlers took refuge in the fort. A group from Oregon came with the intent of finishing the conflict once and for all. The culmination of the conflict was the hanging of Chief Leschi after a trial where he was falsely accused of murder. He was jailed at Fort Steilacoom and his brother was murdered there as well. (He was officially exonerated in 2004.) Lt. Kautz testified on Chief Leschi’s behalf. Lt. Kautz later became a general. The natives were pretty much decimated as more Europeans came with diseases, making it easier to take their land.
The fort was finally abandoned and Western State Hospital was built. The chapel of the fort was the first women’s ward for the hospital The building comprising the fort fell into ruins and would have been completely deteriorated but for the hard work and dedication of a group of volunteers called the Historic Fort Steilacoom Association. They started in the late 1970s and renovated the buildings amid lots of politics and naysayers. They started having events there to highlight the history of the fort and surrounding area. Because the buildings were the oldest buildings in Washington, it was hugely important to the volunteers to preserve them.
The relationship between Western State Hospital and Fort Steilacoom is unusual. It had to cooperate with the city and the area became a historic district. The hospital has always provided security for the fort and gave ready access to the volunteers.
There has been confusion between the Town of Steilacoom and Fort Steilacoom but they are very different entities. In 1996, Lakewood was incorporated as a city. As one of the founders of the City of Lakewood, Walter told the story that there was another Lakewood up north around Bellingham. The Post Office wouldn’t put Lakewood on addresses, instead requiring Lakewood Center as the designation. Andrew was responsible for getting the sign for Lakewood taken down around Marysville, finally putting an end to the confusion.
Thank you, Walter, for a snapshot of the interesting history of the fort. I know I, for one, will want to visit as soon as possible to learn more.
Donnnnnn Irwin won the raffle but not the $500 cash. Sorry, Donnnnn, better luck next time.
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A Fine Day it Will Be
Sunday, February 13, 2022 By: Mary Marlin
A Fine Day it Will BeTHE LAKEWOOD KEY
Welcome, Lakewood Rotarians!! And what a fine day it will be when we can fist bump, shake hands, rub elbows or catch a quick hug for the first time in weeks!! Yes, welcome to the new normal! And speaking of normal....the bell chimed at 12:30 and Jim Rooks took the reins to begin our Friday meeting.
He welcomed all and soon Scott Buser gave the invocation and Bob Peterson led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Cheerful greeters, Wendy McGowan, James Osundwa, and Dwight Williams were at the front desk encouraging all to enjoy the meeting and have a great day. (By the way, it worked!) Making the meeting work were Rob Erb, Tom George, James Osundwa, Rick Selden, Terry Roarke, Bob Martin, Leanna Christian and Kendra Riconosciuto. Quite the team that makes it all happen....every week! John Lowney, of course, was waiting for the fines to be paid, Greg Horn was Sergeant at Arms and the raffle encourager, Steve Enquist managed the Foundation donations, Greg Rediske monitored the president's limited gaffes and yours truly took minutes and somehow volunteered to schedule greeters.
| Welcome, Lakewood Rotarians!! And what a fine day it will be when we can fist bump, shake hands, rub elbows or catch a quick hug for the first time in weeks!! Yes, welcome to the new normal! And speaking of normal....the bell chimed at 12:30 and Jim Rooks took the reins to begin our Friday meeting. He welcomed all and soon Scott Buser gave the invocation and Bob Peterson led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Cheerful greeters, Wendy McGowan, James Osundwa, and Dwight Williams were at the front desk encouraging all to enjoy the meeting and have a great day. (By the way, it worked!) Making the meeting work were Rob Erb, Tom George, James Osundwa, Rick Selden, Terry Roarke, Bob Martin, Leanna Christian and Kendra Riconosciuto. Quite the team that makes it all happen....every week! John Lowney, of course, was waiting for the fines to be paid, Greg Horn was Sergeant at Arms and the raffle encourager, Steve Enquist managed the Foundation donations, Greg Rediske monitored the president's limited gaffes and yours truly took minutes and somehow volunteered to schedule greeters. Visiting Rotarians and Guests: Pres. Rooks welcomed Mick McDaniel from Tacoma South Rotary Club. Gael Whalen, Jason Whalen's wife, was welcomed as well. Mary Moss introduced her friend and Council Member, Patti Belle....not to be confused with Patti La Belle, so I've heard. The Puffins who were up and ready for action were: Steve Saalfeld, James Osundwa, Wendy McGowan, Bob Martin, Andy Phillips, Dwight Williams, and Linda McDermott. Health & Wellness: Eric Warn, regarding the health of members, mentioned that Wynn Hoffman's son had passed away. Difficult news to hear. Connie Coleman-Lacadie's husband is recovering from surgery. Eric also mentioned that he is collecting eyeglasses for the Lakewood Lions so don't throw yours away. Good news then arrived with Greg Horn who gave a Rotary Theme Banner to Jim Rooks for serving all of us in the club so well. Eradicating polio has been our focus; last year we donated $1500 toward the cause. Greg then thanked the club for their efforts to support eradication of this awful disease. Induction of Another Puffin: Veronica Bronkema, sponsored by her husband Carl, was then asked to come to the podium. (Carl was still looking for the puffin!) Becoming a new enthusiastic member, Veronica was introduced to the pledge, the 4-way test, and shared some information about her life. She grew up in Mexico with Rotaract, has been married to Carl for almost two decades, has two sons, went to UW, and is now an administrator with the Dept. of Labor and Industries. She also serves on the Board at the Credit Union and is very excited to become a member of Lakewood Rotary. She now has the Red Badge, information about the club, a Rotary pin and, of course, the invoice. Jim assured her that he gave her the "family rate". Above: Latest Puffin: Veronica Bronkema Rose Stevens then introduced Mick McDaniel from Tacoma South Rotary Club. His club has been instrumental in assisting India with a much needed computer device called the Unplugged Hub. It works like a modem and disk drive when plugged in, but can become a hotspot for 50 computers for schools when unplugged. Several training levels are available for kids and also Microsoft and English as a second language information is also available. People in India have an average salary of about $1.25 a day. We can do at least 100 times as much with our money through projects in India. Check out the Rotary Magazine for more information. Then Mick congratulated Lakewood members for helping India with much needed computer help with our $2000 donation. Paul Harris Awards: Steve Enquist then presented Paul Harris awards to James Osundwa, his first....Peter Marsh, his first....and Ed Shannon, his 6th. Just so you know, Mary Horn received her 7th, 8th and 9th Paul Harris awards recently and as of today both Mary and Greg Horn, as a couple, have given a total of $25,000 to the Rotary Foundation!!! This means they now have a second Major Donor award, a crystal with their name on it, a diamond pin for each of them, and a pendant (that Mary immediately claimed). Lakewood Rotary now has 98 Paul Harris fellows!!! As a club we have given $1.3 + million. Well done, team!!! Above: A Puffin and PH Fellow, James Osundwa! Little Free Pantry: Jim then gave kudos to the Little Free Pantry committee for such an outstanding job and some of the hardest workers he has seen. Applause deserved. Fines and Generous Giving: Then came fines, with Carl Bronkema giving $100 for turning 58, for being able to play in the PGA Pro Am Tournament recently, and for having the love of his life and his partner in crime in the Lakewood Rotary club with him. (He should get an award for just that!! Just sayin') Steve Saalfeld's oldest son is now an engineer in training and has a job in Portland. Not sure what Steve paid as a fine, but, hey, his son now has a job. And Steve has his address! Sally Smith is 70% protected from bad Covid bugs and donated $100 while being so grateful for those who supported her. The Program: Jason Whalen, our Mayor of Lakewood, then introduced John Caulfield, the City Manager of the City of Lakewood. Jason smiled when he said it was one employee he could bother. John has had many leadership roles...Mountlake Terrace City Manager, Mr. Everything at City of University Place, Federal Way financial guru, Army Ranger in the 2nd Battalion at Fort Lewis, several Boards he has served on, and now serving Lakewood with honor. John received his Masters degree at Seattle Univ. and his bachelor’s degree at Boston University, where, rumor has it, he was a member of the same class as Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Above: City Manager John Caulfield So here are some of the events happening in Lakewood. John mentioned that in the last two years, the city has shown inspiration, perseverance and resilience because of the challenges of Covid-19, and the finances have been the best in decades. The City has never been stronger....outstanding employees, no drawdown in services even with the three-headed monsters of: Pandemic, Supply Chain, and Inflation. Several areas of interest are parks, streets, youth programs, and JBLM cooperation. Also being addressed through the Federal Cares Act funds are issues such as rent, utilities, child care, landlords and businesses. $7.2 million is addressing homelessness, education, equity, and emergency shelters, with cooperation from Habitat for Humanity, Boys and Girls Clubs, Communities in Schools and other organizations. John discussed military matters, tribal relations, Safe City Projects, and how the City is addressing the needs of first responders, health care workers, Police Academy, and more. Soon the police will all have body cameras; the police cars already have cameras, which helps to build assurance within the community that we are all working together to de-escalate and solve problems. John mentioned that Police Chief Mike Zaro is definitely helping to make it all happen. Last year in 2021 there was $159 million worth of new construction! This is an amount that often takes 30 years! Public policy changes are paying off. Housing is a definite immediate focus. Fourteen agencies are working together to address housing needs. Woodbrook Business Park is a major business plus. The freeway access to and from Thorne Lane has helped a lot. One manufacturing firm may soon bring in 800 employees, earning at least $100,000 a year. Lakewood Landing is receiving millions in investment. National and international districts are continuously improving. Downtown Central Park and new libraries plus a senior community center are also coming. A major focus is also on the Natural Environment. Thirty-five initiatives are in the works. With the possibility of a damaging flood from Clover Creek in the future, attention must be paid to the solutions now! Tree preservation, streets and sidewalks, gutters and curbs always need attention. Sound Transit has given $44 million through 2030 to address improvements. Parks at American Lake and Fort Steilacoom are being given $18 million for improvements. Also, get ready for the "fun stuff"....Summerfest on July 9th, Farmer's Market, Saturday Street Festivals, Kids fishing, Senior Activities, Clubs, Sports, and Tractor Tree Lighting. Lakewood is on it! We thank you, John Caulfield, and support all your efforts for making so many changes and your "Our glass is half full" attitude. With that, President Jim, hit the chime. The raffle ticket holder was Dwight Williams, but he didn't win the big one, by pulling out only a white chip Till next time.......yours truly, Mary Marlin Calendar of Upcoming LR Events: (if you have an item send it to Joe Quinn) 3/27-31 Sunriver Rotary Ski Trip (sold out) ? Lakewood Rotary Auction 6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet 7/21 Floating Board Meeting at Holly Hedge 8/27-28 The Courage (tentative date: unconfirmed) 9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain 12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast Reminder: Tacoma Country and Golf Club Dress Code Main Clubhouse: Golf Attire and denim will be allowed in all areas of the club, but no rips or tears will be accepted No pool attire No T-shirts, mock neck acceptable for men No hats for men inside No athletic wear including hooded/college sweatshirts |
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Resolutions and Other Disasters
Saturday, February 5, 2022 By: John W. Magnuson
Resolutions and Other DisastersFebruary (how many of us still say Feb-yew-airy) 4, 2022
Broken Resolutions
It has only been 5 weeks since you made those New Year’s resolutions. I know, it seems like an eternity, right? Just for the sake of curiosity – and no one is going to see your answer; it will just be between you and me – how much weight did you gain before you decided to not lose weight?
The Meeting Began
We’ll address a few more irresolute resolutions if the meeting starts to drag. But in the meantime, President Jim called all the gathered to order. Andrew Kruse remarked he tested positive for COVID and still gave a stirring invocation. He credited Booker T. Washington with a quote that, “Character is power.” Also that we as Rotarians should incorporate character, integrity and loyalty in our service. Dr. Rooks led the Pledge of Allegiance. It’s nice that President Jim remembered to thank Kendra Riconsiuto, John Lowney, Ole and Greg Rediske for their help.
Broken Resolutions – v 1
Speaking of resolutions, President Jim Rooks is compiling a list of Lakewood Rotarians who pledged to take-up running; he being an avid long distance runner. Past President Rick Selden decided that an invigorating 10-mile run would be a great way to start off the New Year. He made it 2 miles before realizing his mistake, called UBER and returned home. So much for that resolution but in so doing he actually satisfied another pledge – to travel more by car.
The Meeting Bustled On
There were no visitors and same number of guests. Wendy McGowan, Dwight Williams and Connie Coleman-Lacadie comprised the Puffins present. The Sunshine Report by Eric Warn told of Wynn Hoffman’s son with severe cancer. Ron Irwin’s lovely wife Liz is recovering from serious cancer surgery and will be undergoing radiation treatments. Some may remember the ever-smiling face of Dr. Lary Banks who recently died. We all welcomed John Warner back from his heart valve surgery. It is rumored Ralph Johnson underwent the same procedure recently. Knowing those two, I bet they negotiated a “Two-fer.”
Rotary Spotlight: (Taken from Rotary bios written by member Kay Shinn in 1987)
John E. Warner (By Kay Shinn, 1987)
Ohio can almost claim John, but Michigan won out! He was born in Morenci, Michigan, which is right on the border of Ohio, near Toledo. The year was 1928. He got his BA, and did post-graduate studies in Pharmacy, at the University of Michigan (Go Blue, sez John during football season). John was fortunate in finding a gal named Marian, who married him and presented him with two daughters and two sons. They are Lee Anne, Elizabeth, John Jr., and Chris. The Warners came to our area from their previous home in Bay City, located at the base of Michigan’s thumb. John got out of school in 1951, and immediately got involved in the Korean War for a couple of years. He works (1987) for Abbott Labs, with headquarters in Chicago. He contacts druggists, doctors and hospitals in our area. He finds time to do some traveling and does some (limited) golfing, fishing and skiing. John is on the board of the Children’s Home Society and belongs to the national and state pharmaceutical associations. He has been a member of our board, has been on the student exchange committee, is now vice chair of Community Social Concerns and is a Paul Harris sustaining member.
Update from 1987: John is now retired and fast on his way to 94 years old. Marian passed away a few years ago, while John revels in the successes of his children. Which is good for Lakewood Rotary, because he is quick to fine himself for those successes. He recently had a major heart event, with a major surgery of the “how do they do that?” variety, and is back to excellent, no doubt with his proverbial smile.
Foregoing bio provided by Greg Rediske, Club Secretary Extraordinaire
Above: John Warner
Broken Resolutions – v 2
Secretary Greg Rediske told me that one of his resolutions was simply to just be a better person. When I asked, “Greg, how much better could you possibly be?” He replied, “I know. It’s kind of like my favorite song by Mac Davis – Its Hard to be Humble when You’re Perfect in Every Way.” Thus breaking one of his resolutions – to show more humility.
The Meeting Steamed Forth
Reports of Lakewood Rotary activity show that this club is just about perfect in everything it does. PDG Greg Horn rattled off the rosters of birthdays; club anniversaries and wedding anniversaries so quickly I broke the tip of my of my Dixon Ticonderoga #2 and may have missed some but here are the ones I caught. Dave Reames, Gary Barton, Mary Moss, Mary Marlin, Carl Bronkema, and maybe “Wheels” Barlow Buescher and Anne Enquist all had birthdays. Rotary anniversaries approximated: Andrew Kruse - 4 years, Kendra Riconsiuto – 4 years, Eric Quinn – 4 years, Eric Warn – 6 years, Donnnn Irwin – 9 years or maybe 42 years, Kris Peterson – 12 years, Jim Weinand – 10 years, Dan Livingston – 16 years, Mo Sarram – 35 years, Dave Coleman – more than 1 and fewer than 100 years. Marital anniversaries: The Northcutts – 18 years, The Easters – 23 years, The Georges were either 37 or 39 years, but that doesn’t seem like anything to quibble over, The Roarkes – 44 years, The Phillipses– 53 years and The Sarrams – 62 years.
The Meeting, More
President Jim introduced Rose Stevens who reported that a MOU has been prepared for the installation of 1000 water tanks in what I believe is Brazil. For clarification on this matter please contact Rose. Jim further reported that Rotary Peace Fellowships are available. Contact Jim or the RI website for more information.
Broken Resolutions - v 3
I have a cousin who drinks too much. I am talking about alcohol here, kids. I spoke with him at Christmas and the subject of the New Year came up. He surprised me by saying he intended to travel more and cut back on his drinking. I congratulated him on sound choices, but was somewhat skeptical. I just heard from him and his first stop on his travels was to Boring, Oregon. I asked him why Boring. He replied, “Indeed, why Boring. The onliest reason I went to Boring is because it is next to a town named Moderation and I can drink all I want in Moderation.”
The Meeting Surged
Generous Giving turned out much better on this day than those of you buying BitCoins! “Wheels” Barlow Buescher gave $67 for a birthday and $33 to round up for a puppy he and Karen saved and adopted out. John Warner still believes his Alma Mater, Michigan, can beat Ohio State in football - $100. I didn’t have the heart to tell him it is now Parcheesi season. Mary Marlin overstated her birthday years by donating $50. Tom George insists he’s been married for 37 and gave $37 that he says proves the matter. Sally Porter Smith gave $50 for luck so she can enroll in an immunology study. That must work because Steve Mazoff, Barb Spriggs and Anne Enquist all ponied up on her behalf. Jan Gee appeased the Arizona weather gods with $20. Phil Eng praised John Lowney’s skills in helping him for $20.
Broken Resolutions – v 4
Lakewood Rotarian Morris Northcutt is known for his mastery of the Trumpet. His recording – Tonada, available on Amazon, shows his genius. Little known is the pledge he made to explore new musical worlds. Apparently he has tired of being a prodigy of Cornet music and resolved to twitch the limits of his prodigious talent and try to master the Kazoo. It saddens me to learn we’ll no longer be able to enjoy his dulcet melodies on the golden bell. Hopefully he’ll fail miserably on the Kazoo, not that I wish him ill.
Broken Resolution – v 5
Past President Chris Kimball loves cars. Well, he loves Vickie and their sons more, but cars come in a close second. Well, to be clear, he loves drums more than cars but not as much as he loves Vickie and their sons. And, well, he also loves being a financial advisor. He kind of loves being a financial advisor more that cars but not as much as he loves drums. And Vickie and their sons. Anyway, Chris doesn’t like compasses. And maps. And GPS directions. Actually Chris doesn’t like not knowing where he is in terms of geography. So; one of Chris’s New Years resolutions was to learn where he is. Make that, where he is all the time. That means Chris has to learn all manner of things about cardinal directions. You know; ordinary stuff like: north, east, west and south. Also more complex stuff like left and right, up and down, here and there, etc. However, on his first outing in his Micro-Mini Doodad car, after vowing to understand where he was, is and will be, he hasn’t been seen. So much for that resolution. When asked about Chris’s absence, Vickie queried, “He’s gone?”
The Meeting Drove Off A Cliff In A Hurricane And Volcanic Eruption!
Just kidding. But what if it had? Would you have known what to do, whom to call, what paperwork to complete? I thought not! Andrew Neiditz introduced our speaker, Bill Lokey. Suffice to say, Bill has been involved in Emergency Management and Recovery for more than 40 years. Such work has taken him from Washington State to Washington DC, the Northridge Earthquake, Hurricane Katrina, 9/11, Antarctica, Oklahoma City – and more.
Above: Power Point via Zoom
Bill began his remarks by stating that we don’t prepare well for disasters. Most progress is made in retrospect. What began as Civil Defense has now morphed into FEMA – Federal Emergency Management Agency. For your evening reading pleasure Bill recommends you bone-up on38.52 RCW and 43.06 RCW and any follow-on Executive Orders all as regards Washington State.
He separated planning into needs as differentiated by accidents, emergencies and disasters. All may present differently and he emphasized how complex each could be without clear lines of communications, responsibilities, convergences, media relationships, etc. Bill did an excellent job of pointing out how total confusion could result were it not for organizational clarity.
Public education, responder training, planning ability, possible need for improvisation all are routes to better handling of emergency situations. He pointed to a youthful understanding of the need to protect oneself by exposing one’s “butt.” To elaborating on who is responsible for coffee and donuts. I think I got that part right?
Bill closed with the question, “What can you do?” I answered, “Play guitar and ukulele,” but apparently that wasn’t the answer he was looking for. Obviously the answer goes back to Boy Scout Troop 460, led by Phil Smart, Scoutmaster and famous Rotarian – Be Prepared. And he cleverly remarked, “Ten minutes before the party is no time to be learning how to dance.”
Another wonderful program brought to you 50 times per year by The Rotary Club of Lakewood – in case anyone asks. And several Rotarians asked Bill cogent questions for which he had concise and authoritative answers.
Above: Beautiful but a disaster waiting to happen? Ed.
Broken Resolutions – v 6
Lakewood Rotarian – let’s call her “Marlene” - told me in strictest confidence that she is addicted to Twitter, Snapchat, Gonzo, Facebook and Beezer. She made a resolution to cut back on social media computer usage, but that didn’t last one week. She apparently went into a catatonic state when she discovered she couldn’t remember her fourteen digits, alphanumeric, symbol, upper and lower case password while trying to sneak back into Gonzo. She forgot to disable her computer’s camera, and ALEXA and SIRI filmed her as she ran screaming from her home office. She was taken down by some Microsoft goons in blue scrubs– IN HER OWN HOUSE! After taking some prescribed doses of Diazepam she is now on solid ground. Counseling made her realize she was hallucinating. Self-hypnosis, meditation and Yoga enable her to deal with the “weaning” process. I met with her at Burs for breakfast this morning to talk about her progress. Between sips of her second double Vodka Martini she said life is good again and she is cured of compulsive computer usage. Let’s hear it for “Marlene!”
Who Reads This Stuff?
Ole
Calendar of Upcoming LR Events: (if you have an item send it to Joe Quinn)
3/27-31 Sunriver Rotary Ski Trip (sold out)
? Lakewood Rotary Auction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/27-28 The Courage (tentative date: unconfirmed)
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
We’ll address a few more irresolute resolutions if the meeting starts to drag. But in the meantime, President Jim called all the gathered to order. Andrew Kruse remarked he tested positive for COVID and still gave a stirring invocation. He credited Booker T. Washington with a quote that, “Character is power.” Also that we as Rotarians should incorporate character, integrity and loyalty in our service. Dr. Rooks led the Pledge of Allegiance. It’s nice that President Jim remembered to thank Kendra Riconsiuto, John Lowney, Ole and Greg Rediske for their help.
Broken Resolutions – v 1
Speaking of resolutions, President Jim Rooks is compiling a list of Lakewood Rotarians who pledged to take-up running; he being an avid long distance runner. Past President Rick Selden decided that an invigorating 10-mile run would be a great way to start off the New Year. He made it 2 miles before realizing his mistake, called UBER and returned home. So much for that resolution but in so doing he actually satisfied another pledge – to travel more by car.
The Meeting Bustled On
There were no visitors and same number of guests. Wendy McGowan, Dwight Williams and Connie Coleman-Lacadie comprised the Puffins present. The Sunshine Report by Eric Warn told of Wynn Hoffman’s son with severe cancer. Ron Irwin’s lovely wife Liz is recovering from serious cancer surgery and will be undergoing radiation treatments. Some may remember the ever-smiling face of Dr. Lary Banks who recently died. We all welcomed John Warner back from his heart valve surgery. It is rumored Ralph Johnson underwent the same procedure recently. Knowing those two, I bet they negotiated a “Two-fer.”
Rotary Spotlight: (Taken from Rotary bios written by member Kay Shinn in 1987)
John E. Warner (By Kay Shinn, 1987)
Ohio can almost claim John, but Michigan won out! He was born in Morenci, Michigan, which is right on the border of Ohio, near Toledo. The year was 1928. He got his BA, and did post-graduate studies in Pharmacy, at the University of Michigan (Go Blue, sez John during football season). John was fortunate in finding a gal named Marian, who married him and presented him with two daughters and two sons. They are Lee Anne, Elizabeth, John Jr., and Chris. The Warners came to our area from their previous home in Bay City, located at the base of Michigan’s thumb. John got out of school in 1951, and immediately got involved in the Korean War for a couple of years. He works (1987) for Abbott Labs, with headquarters in Chicago. He contacts druggists, doctors and hospitals in our area. He finds time to do some traveling and does some (limited) golfing, fishing and skiing. John is on the board of the Children’s Home Society and belongs to the national and state pharmaceutical associations. He has been a member of our board, has been on the student exchange committee, is now vice chair of Community Social Concerns and is a Paul Harris sustaining member.
Update from 1987: John is now retired and fast on his way to 94 years old. Marian passed away a few years ago, while John revels in the successes of his children. Which is good for Lakewood Rotary, because he is quick to fine himself for those successes. He recently had a major heart event, with a major surgery of the “how do they do that?” variety, and is back to excellent, no doubt with his proverbial smile.
Foregoing bio provided by Greg Rediske, Club Secretary Extraordinaire
Above: John Warner
Broken Resolutions – v 2
Secretary Greg Rediske told me that one of his resolutions was simply to just be a better person. When I asked, “Greg, how much better could you possibly be?” He replied, “I know. It’s kind of like my favorite song by Mac Davis – Its Hard to be Humble when You’re Perfect in Every Way.” Thus breaking one of his resolutions – to show more humility.
The Meeting Steamed Forth
Reports of Lakewood Rotary activity show that this club is just about perfect in everything it does. PDG Greg Horn rattled off the rosters of birthdays; club anniversaries and wedding anniversaries so quickly I broke the tip of my of my Dixon Ticonderoga #2 and may have missed some but here are the ones I caught. Dave Reames, Gary Barton, Mary Moss, Mary Marlin, Carl Bronkema, and maybe “Wheels” Barlow Buescher and Anne Enquist all had birthdays. Rotary anniversaries approximated: Andrew Kruse - 4 years, Kendra Riconsiuto – 4 years, Eric Quinn – 4 years, Eric Warn – 6 years, Donnnn Irwin – 9 years or maybe 42 years, Kris Peterson – 12 years, Jim Weinand – 10 years, Dan Livingston – 16 years, Mo Sarram – 35 years, Dave Coleman – more than 1 and fewer than 100 years. Marital anniversaries: The Northcutts – 18 years, The Easters – 23 years, The Georges were either 37 or 39 years, but that doesn’t seem like anything to quibble over, The Roarkes – 44 years, The Phillipses– 53 years and The Sarrams – 62 years.
The Meeting, More
President Jim introduced Rose Stevens who reported that a MOU has been prepared for the installation of 1000 water tanks in what I believe is Brazil. For clarification on this matter please contact Rose. Jim further reported that Rotary Peace Fellowships are available. Contact Jim or the RI website for more information.
Broken Resolutions - v 3
I have a cousin who drinks too much. I am talking about alcohol here, kids. I spoke with him at Christmas and the subject of the New Year came up. He surprised me by saying he intended to travel more and cut back on his drinking. I congratulated him on sound choices, but was somewhat skeptical. I just heard from him and his first stop on his travels was to Boring, Oregon. I asked him why Boring. He replied, “Indeed, why Boring. The onliest reason I went to Boring is because it is next to a town named Moderation and I can drink all I want in Moderation.”
The Meeting Surged
Generous Giving turned out much better on this day than those of you buying BitCoins! “Wheels” Barlow Buescher gave $67 for a birthday and $33 to round up for a puppy he and Karen saved and adopted out. John Warner still believes his Alma Mater, Michigan, can beat Ohio State in football - $100. I didn’t have the heart to tell him it is now Parcheesi season. Mary Marlin overstated her birthday years by donating $50. Tom George insists he’s been married for 37 and gave $37 that he says proves the matter. Sally Porter Smith gave $50 for luck so she can enroll in an immunology study. That must work because Steve Mazoff, Barb Spriggs and Anne Enquist all ponied up on her behalf. Jan Gee appeased the Arizona weather gods with $20. Phil Eng praised John Lowney’s skills in helping him for $20.
Broken Resolutions – v 4
Lakewood Rotarian Morris Northcutt is known for his mastery of the Trumpet. His recording – Tonada, available on Amazon, shows his genius. Little known is the pledge he made to explore new musical worlds. Apparently he has tired of being a prodigy of Cornet music and resolved to twitch the limits of his prodigious talent and try to master the Kazoo. It saddens me to learn we’ll no longer be able to enjoy his dulcet melodies on the golden bell. Hopefully he’ll fail miserably on the Kazoo, not that I wish him ill.
Broken Resolution – v 5
Past President Chris Kimball loves cars. Well, he loves Vickie and their sons more, but cars come in a close second. Well, to be clear, he loves drums more than cars but not as much as he loves Vickie and their sons. And, well, he also loves being a financial advisor. He kind of loves being a financial advisor more that cars but not as much as he loves drums. And Vickie and their sons. Anyway, Chris doesn’t like compasses. And maps. And GPS directions. Actually Chris doesn’t like not knowing where he is in terms of geography. So; one of Chris’s New Years resolutions was to learn where he is. Make that, where he is all the time. That means Chris has to learn all manner of things about cardinal directions. You know; ordinary stuff like: north, east, west and south. Also more complex stuff like left and right, up and down, here and there, etc. However, on his first outing in his Micro-Mini Doodad car, after vowing to understand where he was, is and will be, he hasn’t been seen. So much for that resolution. When asked about Chris’s absence, Vickie queried, “He’s gone?”
The Meeting Drove Off A Cliff In A Hurricane And Volcanic Eruption!
Just kidding. But what if it had? Would you have known what to do, whom to call, what paperwork to complete? I thought not! Andrew Neiditz introduced our speaker, Bill Lokey. Suffice to say, Bill has been involved in Emergency Management and Recovery for more than 40 years. Such work has taken him from Washington State to Washington DC, the Northridge Earthquake, Hurricane Katrina, 9/11, Antarctica, Oklahoma City – and more.
Above: Power Point via Zoom
Bill began his remarks by stating that we don’t prepare well for disasters. Most progress is made in retrospect. What began as Civil Defense has now morphed into FEMA – Federal Emergency Management Agency. For your evening reading pleasure Bill recommends you bone-up on38.52 RCW and 43.06 RCW and any follow-on Executive Orders all as regards Washington State.
He separated planning into needs as differentiated by accidents, emergencies and disasters. All may present differently and he emphasized how complex each could be without clear lines of communications, responsibilities, convergences, media relationships, etc. Bill did an excellent job of pointing out how total confusion could result were it not for organizational clarity.
Public education, responder training, planning ability, possible need for improvisation all are routes to better handling of emergency situations. He pointed to a youthful understanding of the need to protect oneself by exposing one’s “butt.” To elaborating on who is responsible for coffee and donuts. I think I got that part right?
Bill closed with the question, “What can you do?” I answered, “Play guitar and ukulele,” but apparently that wasn’t the answer he was looking for. Obviously the answer goes back to Boy Scout Troop 460, led by Phil Smart, Scoutmaster and famous Rotarian – Be Prepared. And he cleverly remarked, “Ten minutes before the party is no time to be learning how to dance.”
Another wonderful program brought to you 50 times per year by The Rotary Club of Lakewood – in case anyone asks. And several Rotarians asked Bill cogent questions for which he had concise and authoritative answers.
Above: Beautiful but a disaster waiting to happen? Ed.
Broken Resolutions – v 6
Lakewood Rotarian – let’s call her “Marlene” - told me in strictest confidence that she is addicted to Twitter, Snapchat, Gonzo, Facebook and Beezer. She made a resolution to cut back on social media computer usage, but that didn’t last one week. She apparently went into a catatonic state when she discovered she couldn’t remember her fourteen digits, alphanumeric, symbol, upper and lower case password while trying to sneak back into Gonzo. She forgot to disable her computer’s camera, and ALEXA and SIRI filmed her as she ran screaming from her home office. She was taken down by some Microsoft goons in blue scrubs– IN HER OWN HOUSE! After taking some prescribed doses of Diazepam she is now on solid ground. Counseling made her realize she was hallucinating. Self-hypnosis, meditation and Yoga enable her to deal with the “weaning” process. I met with her at Burs for breakfast this morning to talk about her progress. Between sips of her second double Vodka Martini she said life is good again and she is cured of compulsive computer usage. Let’s hear it for “Marlene!”
Who Reads This Stuff?
Ole
Calendar of Upcoming LR Events: (if you have an item send it to Joe Quinn)
3/27-31 Sunriver Rotary Ski Trip (sold out)
? Lakewood Rotary Auction
6/25 Rotary Installation Banquet
8/27-28 The Courage (tentative date: unconfirmed)
9/11-13 Reeder Rotary Roadster Romp to Sun Mountain
12/16 Tom and Jerry Party and President’s Roast
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History and Biographies
Saturday, January 29, 2022 By: Gregory J. Rediske
History and BiographiesTHE LAKEWOOD KEY
Jim Rooks “rang the bell” to start this meeting of Lakewood Rotary, exactly 65 years, 9 months and 3 days since the chartering of our club on April 25, 1956. 24,019 days. By that date, 44 of our 126 members had not been born yet. That’s a lot of history right there, all recorded week in and week out by your fastidious bulletin-writing historians. Emblazoned on the door of our bulletin-writers’ press room are two quotes: “History is a set of lies agreed upon.” (Napoleon), and “History will be kind to me for I intend to write it.” (Winston Churchill). Personally, I have lobbied for the removal of the Bonaparte inscription simply because he is also the guy who wrote “Women are nothing but machines for producing children.” But the darned thing is engraved above the door, so…
140 words so far and having said nothing of note about our meeting of January 28 might be noteworthy but for the volumes of bulletins that have gone before. Even so, a point should be made, and that is that this heavily researched edition of the Lakewood Key (the official name of our weekly bulletin) contains some biographies reproduced from 1987. They were written by the late-great Kay Shinn who was 83 at the time. Some may remember Elan Shinn Real Estate from the 1970s, Kay’s wife. Kay decided to write brief bios of all the members of Lakewood Rotary, and did so. Most are no longer alive, but a bunch still are! So not only will you get the storytelling of today’s meeting which will itself lapse into history in 20 or 30 years by definition, you’ll also get honest to goodness stories that have already aged into history! And of course, the program will give us a history lesson as well. We shall make you smart, and historically wise!
If anyone is still reading this (to mimic The Great Ole of Lakewood Key fame), it will now be noted that President Rooks did indeed start this meeting, something over 3200 meetings after the first in 1956, with the invocation of Bob Hammar, the flag presentation by Leanna Christian, and leading of the Pledge by President Jim. All via Zoom, of course, for the next to last time as a 100% Zoom. Back to the Club on February 11, with the Zoom option always available. Prior to that, discussion included Carole Wier’s plan to relocate back here where it’s not so cold, Jim Bisceglia’s struggling remodel, while Bill Potter was representing all of us by having lunch at the Country Club.
Puffins in the house: James Osundwa, Wendy McGowan, Bob Martin, and Dwight Williams.
Mahmoud (Mo) Sarram by Kay Shinn, 1987
Mo is one of our newer members. He has been with us for about a year or so. He was born in 1932 in Iran and received his medical education at the University of Freiburg in West Germany. He says that a most important step in his life and in the lives of his family was their immigration to the United States. Mo practices obstetrics and gynecology in his office at 7424 Bridgeport Way SW. His wife is named Ferie (Fereshteh), and they have 3 children, all students. They are Manya, 24; Shahrzad, 23; and Ali, 18. Mo enjoys his work, but he also has fun doing such things as hiking, reading, and boning up on such topics as religion and philosophy. (Hey, that sounds downright brainy!) In Rotary, Mo has worked in the area of international service and is now Vice Chairman of the World Community Service Committee.
(Update since 1987: Mo is retired and has been chair of the World Affairs Seminar committee for many years. He has written a book, Transplanted: A Memoir of Faith and Vision for American Muslims. An excellent book.)
Above: Mo Sarram
Foundation Report: Steve Enquist reported that in the first six months, $11,145 has been collected for the Paul Harris Foundation, and $13,110 was sent to RI. We have 98 Paul Harris Fellows and 13 major donors. Eight Lakewood Rotarians make automated deposits which aren’t included in the yearly total. All time contribution by Lakewood Rotary: $1,305,599.
As mentioned previously, the Board of Directors decided to implement a 4% charge for online credit card payments to cover the expense from each transaction. As that relates to Paul Harris charges: A payment of $100 will cost the donor $104; but as the CC convenience fee for this charge is just 3.6%, not the charged 4%, approximately 40 cents will be added to the donation to Paul Harris, for a total credited donation of $100.40. Got that?!? (We wordsmithing bulletin writers are not particularly strong on math, so we announce this formula with trepidation as to its accuracy. We’re better at big words.)
Rose Stevens requested approval of $2000 out of the World Community Service committee for a grant through Tacoma South for a student training center in northern India. Passed unanimously.
Announcements from Jim:
--District Conference is May 13-14 in Victoria, with hotel arrangements at the Grand Pacific. Home hospitality is available one night and Jim promises a great time will be had by all. Sign up at www.rotary5020.org.
--Starting February 11, Puffin greeters will be re-engaged, starting with Jim Rooks and his crop of Puffins that he recently sponsored. It will be good to get back to this friendly routine: say Hi to President Jim and the new members as you arrive!
John Magnuson by Kay Shinn, 1987
Here is another of our bright-eyed eager-beavers, itching to take over from us jaded, jagged has-beens (or never weres!). John is only 47 years old but is apparently cutting a swath! He was born in Seattle and received his degree at the U of W. His wife is named Bonnie, and they have three children: Stacia, Erik, and Kyle. They live on Interlaaken Drive SW. John heads up Magnuson Management Inc. (real estate management) with offices at 10107 South Tacoma Way and in Bellevue. He is a senior vice president of the Institute of Real Estate Management, National Organization; member of Home Builders, Building Owners and Management Association. John enjoys boating, swimming, and travel. And he was on the U.S. Pan American Games rowing team in 1963. He was a charter member of Fife-Milton Rotary Club and has been on our major project selection committee. He is now vice chairman of our group study exchange committee.
(Update since 1987: John took his company public several years ago and is now retired. He is a Past President of Lakewood Rotary (2001-02), a Russ Klauser Rotarian of the Year (2013-14), and was co-chair of the playground project at Ft. Steilacoom. He has taken up the ukulele and guitar, while continuing to attempt to tell a good Scandinavian joke or two.)
Above: John Magnuson
Fines, or Generous Giving, depending on how you look at it:
--Joe Quinn (and Kris) just welcomed Asher, their 4th and possibly final grandchild. He was 7 lb. 1 oz and 20”, and worth $100 to the fine budget. He also celebrated his 76th birthday.
--Nicole Hancock announced her new baby boy, destined to arrive on or about April 6, several weeks ago on Facebook. But the real, real announcement is when it is made to Lakewood Rotary. Look out world!
--David Swindale returned from Hawaii, again, and paid $100 for his Kona trip, a helicopter ride over a volcano and snorkeling with Manta rays.
--Bob Martin made a free announcement/greeting that he sat next to Jane Pryor, our outstanding member from 1997 to 2007, at a meeting of Seattle #4, where Jane is now a member. Howdy, Jane!
Dave Covey (By Kay Shinn, 1987)
You should see the biography form this guy turned in! His wife, Florence, did part of the work and it’s hard to tell who’s doing what to who! Dave was born in 1943 (at the Bremerton Naval Shipyard, according to Flo’s neat insert). He graduated from the UW in 1967 after earning letters in Frosh baseball and 3 years as a crew man. (He pulled much harder than Rotarian John Magnuson did, according to another of Flo’s ad lib inserts). Dave and Florence are parents of Angie (17) and Boen (5). They started their Business Interiors Northwest in 1982 in their basement. Now they have three locations and hire 28 people. As the company name indicates, they do interior planning for commercial customers. Dave works up a sweat running, skiing, biking, slo-pitch softball…and some golf-betting with Joe Ghilarducci. Dave had an adventurous background: he homesteaded in Alaska; farmed in Montana; graduated from Air Force Navigation School; served in Vietnam; was a crew coach; taught school; and etc. Dave has been with us since 1983 and he’s been busy. For example: Pancake Breakfast ticket chairman, softball coach during our winning and losing years; wild game dinner prize project; project selection committee; and etc.
Update from 1987: Dave founded the MFLF (Mighty Fine Liberation Front) during the reign of Dennis Shade, whose Mighty Fine was $50. Dave’s group insisted on a reduction to $17.95, which Dave still invokes. He was club president in 2002-03 and Russ Klauser Rotarian of the Year in 2009-10. Dave is dealing with Parkinson’s and has been extremely active in helping fellow sufferers of that disease with spinning and boxing workouts.
Above: Dave Covey, then and later
Program:
“I am big and tough and rough and rugged and not afraid to die because my heart is pure and extra smart and extra good looking and God’s gift to women”. So Barlow Buescher’s dad would say about him to his friends, so that’s probably all we need to know about Barlow. But just for completeness-sake, Greg Rediske added that Barlow worked at processing cow hides and remelting aluminum in between graduating from Whitworth and later the Princeton Theological Seminary, where he got his Master of Divinity. His career started in West Virginia, but he soon migrated here to serve as minister at Lakewood Presbyterian for 30 years, while simultaneously teaching at Pierce and St. Martins, primarily Sociology, from Intro to Social Theory. He is married to Karen Johnson and lives next door to Greg Rediske, not actually Barlow’s decision as he was already there when Greg moved in. His Irish Setter Earnest is Maisy’s best friend (Greg’s dog), as inquiring minds want to know.
Barlow first spoke of his immense pride at teaching the military all over the world at Pierce. (In Saturday’s Suburban Times, it was announced that the Council of College and Military Educators (CCME) name Pierce College the recipient of the 2022 Institution Award in recognition of its significant contributions to the cause of military education. Barlow says it is not the first time they have received this prestigious award.) Barlow took us on a journey of 7000 years, starting with subsistence farming that dominated the world then. At that time, 60% of children didn’t live long enough to procreate. Many families didn’t even name their children for a few years, given the expectation of early death. “Death was a part of life.” Families needed about 5 births per woman to maintain a stable population. As the death rate collapsed over time, a surplus of people forced the move off the farm to the village. (All the while, Barlow was showing off his unique drawing skills on charts, inspiring Greg Horn to “chat” that it reminded him of Dave Covey’s pie charts.) This movement grew rapidly over a century and a half in the United States, and the same movement is now happening in India, Southeast Asia, China and elsewhere: only much faster. Fast forward to now, and people want stuff. Leading to globalization. Leading to pollution; and climate change. Climate refugees will be a real thing by the end of this century, continuing change and innovation.
Jim Rooks recommended his book club subject, “Unsettled” by Steven Koonin on this subject. And with that, the entire Rotary Club can now apply for one college credit at Pierce College. Thanks, Barlow!!
And finally, there is no drawing, again. Zoom is like that. But there is the subject of corporate mergers to investigate. The last few years have seen many, many such mergers. Here are two we’d like to see come about (originally in the August, 1988 Lakewood Key):
If Yale Lock, Mary Tyler Moore Enterprises, Fuller Brush and WR Grace Chemical merged, you could name it Yale-Mary-Fuller-Grace.
And if K-Mart, Sarah Lee and Sarah Coventry merged, they would of course be K-Sarah-Sarah.
Any complaints, take it up with the Editor.
If anyone is still reading this (to mimic The Great Ole of Lakewood Key fame), it will now be noted that President Rooks did indeed start this meeting, something over 3200 meetings after the first in 1956, with the invocation of Bob Hammar, the flag presentation by Leanna Christian, and leading of the Pledge by President Jim. All via Zoom, of course, for the next to last time as a 100% Zoom. Back to the Club on February 11, with the Zoom option always available. Prior to that, discussion included Carole Wier’s plan to relocate back here where it’s not so cold, Jim Bisceglia’s struggling remodel, while Bill Potter was representing all of us by having lunch at the Country Club.
Puffins in the house: James Osundwa, Wendy McGowan, Bob Martin, and Dwight Williams.
Mahmoud (Mo) Sarram by Kay Shinn, 1987
Mo is one of our newer members. He has been with us for about a year or so. He was born in 1932 in Iran and received his medical education at the University of Freiburg in West Germany. He says that a most important step in his life and in the lives of his family was their immigration to the United States. Mo practices obstetrics and gynecology in his office at 7424 Bridgeport Way SW. His wife is named Ferie (Fereshteh), and they have 3 children, all students. They are Manya, 24; Shahrzad, 23; and Ali, 18. Mo enjoys his work, but he also has fun doing such things as hiking, reading, and boning up on such topics as religion and philosophy. (Hey, that sounds downright brainy!) In Rotary, Mo has worked in the area of international service and is now Vice Chairman of the World Community Service Committee.
(Update since 1987: Mo is retired and has been chair of the World Affairs Seminar committee for many years. He has written a book, Transplanted: A Memoir of Faith and Vision for American Muslims. An excellent book.)
Above: Mo Sarram
Foundation Report: Steve Enquist reported that in the first six months, $11,145 has been collected for the Paul Harris Foundation, and $13,110 was sent to RI. We have 98 Paul Harris Fellows and 13 major donors. Eight Lakewood Rotarians make automated deposits which aren’t included in the yearly total. All time contribution by Lakewood Rotary: $1,305,599.
As mentioned previously, the Board of Directors decided to implement a 4% charge for online credit card payments to cover the expense from each transaction. As that relates to Paul Harris charges: A payment of $100 will cost the donor $104; but as the CC convenience fee for this charge is just 3.6%, not the charged 4%, approximately 40 cents will be added to the donation to Paul Harris, for a total credited donation of $100.40. Got that?!? (We wordsmithing bulletin writers are not particularly strong on math, so we announce this formula with trepidation as to its accuracy. We’re better at big words.)
Rose Stevens requested approval of $2000 out of the World Community Service committee for a grant through Tacoma South for a student training center in northern India. Passed unanimously.
Announcements from Jim:
--District Conference is May 13-14 in Victoria, with hotel arrangements at the Grand Pacific. Home hospitality is available one night and Jim promises a great time will be had by all. Sign up at www.rotary5020.org.
--Starting February 11, Puffin greeters will be re-engaged, starting with Jim Rooks and his crop of Puffins that he recently sponsored. It will be good to get back to this friendly routine: say Hi to President Jim and the new members as you arrive!
John Magnuson by Kay Shinn, 1987
Here is another of our bright-eyed eager-beavers, itching to take over from us jaded, jagged has-beens (or never weres!). John is only 47 years old but is apparently cutting a swath! He was born in Seattle and received his degree at the U of W. His wife is named Bonnie, and they have three children: Stacia, Erik, and Kyle. They live on Interlaaken Drive SW. John heads up Magnuson Management Inc. (real estate management) with offices at 10107 South Tacoma Way and in Bellevue. He is a senior vice president of the Institute of Real Estate Management, National Organization; member of Home Builders, Building Owners and Management Association. John enjoys boating, swimming, and travel. And he was on the U.S. Pan American Games rowing team in 1963. He was a charter member of Fife-Milton Rotary Club and has been on our major project selection committee. He is now vice chairman of our group study exchange committee.
(Update since 1987: John took his company public several years ago and is now retired. He is a Past President of Lakewood Rotary (2001-02), a Russ Klauser Rotarian of the Year (2013-14), and was co-chair of the playground project at Ft. Steilacoom. He has taken up the ukulele and guitar, while continuing to attempt to tell a good Scandinavian joke or two.)
Above: John Magnuson
Fines, or Generous Giving, depending on how you look at it:
--Joe Quinn (and Kris) just welcomed Asher, their 4th and possibly final grandchild. He was 7 lb. 1 oz and 20”, and worth $100 to the fine budget. He also celebrated his 76th birthday.
--Nicole Hancock announced her new baby boy, destined to arrive on or about April 6, several weeks ago on Facebook. But the real, real announcement is when it is made to Lakewood Rotary. Look out world!
--David Swindale returned from Hawaii, again, and paid $100 for his Kona trip, a helicopter ride over a volcano and snorkeling with Manta rays.
--Bob Martin made a free announcement/greeting that he sat next to Jane Pryor, our outstanding member from 1997 to 2007, at a meeting of Seattle #4, where Jane is now a member. Howdy, Jane!
Dave Covey (By Kay Shinn, 1987)
You should see the biography form this guy turned in! His wife, Florence, did part of the work and it’s hard to tell who’s doing what to who! Dave was born in 1943 (at the Bremerton Naval Shipyard, according to Flo’s neat insert). He graduated from the UW in 1967 after earning letters in Frosh baseball and 3 years as a crew man. (He pulled much harder than Rotarian John Magnuson did, according to another of Flo’s ad lib inserts). Dave and Florence are parents of Angie (17) and Boen (5). They started their Business Interiors Northwest in 1982 in their basement. Now they have three locations and hire 28 people. As the company name indicates, they do interior planning for commercial customers. Dave works up a sweat running, skiing, biking, slo-pitch softball…and some golf-betting with Joe Ghilarducci. Dave had an adventurous background: he homesteaded in Alaska; farmed in Montana; graduated from Air Force Navigation School; served in Vietnam; was a crew coach; taught school; and etc. Dave has been with us since 1983 and he’s been busy. For example: Pancake Breakfast ticket chairman, softball coach during our winning and losing years; wild game dinner prize project; project selection committee; and etc.
Update from 1987: Dave founded the MFLF (Mighty Fine Liberation Front) during the reign of Dennis Shade, whose Mighty Fine was $50. Dave’s group insisted on a reduction to $17.95, which Dave still invokes. He was club president in 2002-03 and Russ Klauser Rotarian of the Year in 2009-10. Dave is dealing with Parkinson’s and has been extremely active in helping fellow sufferers of that disease with spinning and boxing workouts.
Above: Dave Covey, then and later
Program:
“I am big and tough and rough and rugged and not afraid to die because my heart is pure and extra smart and extra good looking and God’s gift to women”. So Barlow Buescher’s dad would say about him to his friends, so that’s probably all we need to know about Barlow. But just for completeness-sake, Greg Rediske added that Barlow worked at processing cow hides and remelting aluminum in between graduating from Whitworth and later the Princeton Theological Seminary, where he got his Master of Divinity. His career started in West Virginia, but he soon migrated here to serve as minister at Lakewood Presbyterian for 30 years, while simultaneously teaching at Pierce and St. Martins, primarily Sociology, from Intro to Social Theory. He is married to Karen Johnson and lives next door to Greg Rediske, not actually Barlow’s decision as he was already there when Greg moved in. His Irish Setter Earnest is Maisy’s best friend (Greg’s dog), as inquiring minds want to know.
Barlow first spoke of his immense pride at teaching the military all over the world at Pierce. (In Saturday’s Suburban Times, it was announced that the Council of College and Military Educators (CCME) name Pierce College the recipient of the 2022 Institution Award in recognition of its significant contributions to the cause of military education. Barlow says it is not the first time they have received this prestigious award.) Barlow took us on a journey of 7000 years, starting with subsistence farming that dominated the world then. At that time, 60% of children didn’t live long enough to procreate. Many families didn’t even name their children for a few years, given the expectation of early death. “Death was a part of life.” Families needed about 5 births per woman to maintain a stable population. As the death rate collapsed over time, a surplus of people forced the move off the farm to the village. (All the while, Barlow was showing off his unique drawing skills on charts, inspiring Greg Horn to “chat” that it reminded him of Dave Covey’s pie charts.) This movement grew rapidly over a century and a half in the United States, and the same movement is now happening in India, Southeast Asia, China and elsewhere: only much faster. Fast forward to now, and people want stuff. Leading to globalization. Leading to pollution; and climate change. Climate refugees will be a real thing by the end of this century, continuing change and innovation.
Jim Rooks recommended his book club subject, “Unsettled” by Steven Koonin on this subject. And with that, the entire Rotary Club can now apply for one college credit at Pierce College. Thanks, Barlow!!
And finally, there is no drawing, again. Zoom is like that. But there is the subject of corporate mergers to investigate. The last few years have seen many, many such mergers. Here are two we’d like to see come about (originally in the August, 1988 Lakewood Key):
If Yale Lock, Mary Tyler Moore Enterprises, Fuller Brush and WR Grace Chemical merged, you could name it Yale-Mary-Fuller-Grace.
And if K-Mart, Sarah Lee and Sarah Coventry merged, they would of course be K-Sarah-Sarah.
Any complaints, take it up with the Editor.
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AI: Making Magic Mundane
Sunday, January 23, 2022 By: Donn Irwin
AI – Making Magic MundaneTHE LAKEWOOD KEY for January 21,2022
AI (Artificial Intelligence)
1)a branch of computer science dealing with the simulation of intelligent behavior in computers
2) the capability of a machine to imitate intelligent human behavior
In the beginning President Jim called the meeting to order at 12:30 p.m; however, there was some pre-game chatter among the Zooming members of the Lakewood Rotary tribe. Some of the chatter went like this:
Greg R. mentioned that the Board meeting went long and that President Jim wasn’t happy about it, but lots of stuff had to get done.
Ron Banner was thanked for all of the things that he does. Greg R. wanted to know how Ron was dealing with the Covid situation. Mr. Banner was very diplomatic while giving us some insight in dealing with all of the regulations.
On this day in history….
In 1677 the first medical publication in America (pamphlet on smallpox) was published in Boston
Carole Wier shared that she was experiencing a heat wave in Minnesota. When she got up this morning it was 3 degrees but the thermometer had since climbed all the way up to 13 degrees as of the time of our meeting. (For her I believe it was 2:30PM.)
Gayle Selden publicly apologized to PP Bill Potter for joking him in the last Club Bulletin. Bill allowed that it was fine and recognition of any kind is great for PPs.
1813 - Spaniard Don Francisco de Paula y Marin plants coffee in Hawaii - first record of coffee growing in Hawaii.
Now back to our meeting:
President Jim called the meeting to order promptly at 12:30 p.m and immediately went mute……I’ll leave that alone. After coming back on President Jim noted that Andrew Kruse was slated to do the invocation but wasn’t in attendance. The Pres looked for Barlow Buescher and couldn’t find him either so he gave the invocation himself (gotta love a guy that will just take charge). It was obvious that Pres Jim is a preacher’s son. The Pres followed up the invocation by leading us in the pledge of allegiance. He then explained that, at the last Board meeting, the Board discussed the fees that the credit card companies charge and that, in the near future there will be a “convenience” fee charged by LR for using credit cards to pay for our various fines, donations etc.
1899 - Opel manufactures its first automobile
Making the Meeting happen: Co-Host: Leanna Christian
Recording of fines: John Lowney
Bulletin Writer: Donn Irwin
Foundation Desk: Please mail in contributions or go online
Monitoring This President’s Gaffes: Greg Rediske
Puffins attending: Wendy McGowan, Connie Coleman-Lacadie, Angela Connelly, James Osundwa.
No guests of Rotarians were noted.
Health and Wellness: Eric Warn shared that he had spoken with John Forkenbrock and that he is dealing with skin cancer but doing okay.
1908 - "Sullivan Ordinance" is passed in NYC, making it illegal for a woman to smoke in public places. It was vetoed 2 weeks later by Mayor George B. McClellan Jr.
John Lowney was called upon to let us know that somehow a donation for the Emergency Food Network had been promised for last year but had not been paid. John then asked for a motion from the group to authorize a $2000.00 payment to EFN. The motion was stated, a second was recognized and the motion passed unanimously.
President Jim then called upon Rose Stevens to talk about the Little Food Pantry project. Rose stated that they are looking for drop off points for donations. Rose asked that Lakewood Rotary members with businesses consider being a drop off point but that she would take any suggestions. Contact Rose or Bob Zawilski.
Above: Typical LFP
1915 - Kiwanis International founded in Detroit
Angela Connelly then alerted all of us to a Business Summit being put on by Tacoma Safe. So, if you wish to attend, the Summit is Wednesday 1/26 at America’s Car Museum. The summit is about having Tacoma be a safe city but it actually is a county-wide event. The Mayor of Tacoma along with the Pierce County Executive and four Council members are slated to be there. For more information contact Angela.
Oops – at this point it was noted by someone that, unbeknownst to him, Carl Bronkema’s wife Veronica was actually in attendance as a guest. Our President asked if her application for membership was in the pipeline yet. Carl confessed that it was still on his desk.
Anne Enquist had mentioned to President Jim that Amazon has a program called Amazon Smile that allows for donations to charitable organizations when we buy things. Leanna Christian walked us through the process of signing up for the program. Greg Rediske shared that last year the club received about $350.00 of “free” money. Just go to https://www.smile.amazon.com.
And get the app. It is really easy to just designate LR as your preferred charity.
1935 -12.0" (30.5 cm) of rain falls at Quinault Ranger Station, a Washington state record.
Eric Quinn, our Youth Exchange guy, is looking for hosts as the program is being ramped back up. NOTE: Families and anyone that lives in the home will have to show proof of vaccination against Covid.
1934 -Parisian baker and "student of medieval life" Henri Littière appears in court charged with forcing his adulterous wife Juliette to wear a chastity belt. Having committed the same offence in 1932, he was sentenced to three months in prison and fined 50 francs for cruelty to his wife.
Mary Marlin announced that there is a Zoom meeting that John Korsmo has set up regarding mentoring. The meeting is on January 27th. Give Mary a call for details and/or suggestions for mentors and mentees.
President Jim opened the floor for any questions we had for member Ron Banner – the Superintendent of Clover Park School District.
Above; Ron Banner
Our President asked how the basketball team was doing and Ron said that the activity is keeping the kids engaged and active through this pandemic. Ron also noted that the coaches and players are tested for Covid three times a week.
GR: Where are you with subs?
RB: If you have a four-year degree you can apply – they need teachers! They also need bus drivers.
MH: What’s happening with new boundaries.
RB: The school boundaries haven’t changed (although he is in discussions with Bethel School District over a small area that is in question) but the voting districts can change due to redistricting following the census. This is known as reapportionment, and is based on the constitutional principle of “one person, one vote”. The school district has a consultant working on the reapportionment process.
AE: What percentage of the staff is fully vaccinated?
RB: About 99%. Those that are exempt get tested once a week. The “fully vaccinated” definition does NOT include the booster at this time.
Fines and Generous Giving – Dr. Ralph Johnson – yesterday was my 94th birthday. The good doctor paid $100.00 for the privilege. Leanna Christian had a “milestone birthday” (she didn’t mention which one) and a getaway weekend. She rounded up her fine to $50.00 to cover for the trip. (You do the math as to her age.)
1994 - Dow Jones passes 3900 (record 3,914.20).
Picked up by this writer on “Chat” during the Zoom meeting: Rumor has it that John Warner will be coming back from the East Coast on 2/2.
Program: Artificial Intelligence and its relationship with medical research.
Above: Tom George (great to see our Puffins being so active)
Tom George gave an extensive introduction of our speaker, Robin Abraham, Ph.D. Mr. Abraham is the Director of Applied Science, Program Management & Engineering at Microsoft.
Dr. Abraham shared that he has taken inspiration from a book entitled “Astrophysics for People in a Hurry”. (This writer admits that this particular title is NOT on his list of must reads – mainly because I wouldn’t understand most of it.) Our speaker also shared that AI (artificial intelligence) is the most important thing that humanity is working on.
The program focused on AI and medicine but Dr. Abraham made the point that AI takes the magical and turns it into the mundane. Think back when we marveled at asking a computer a question like “who is x” and boom – you had an answer. You didn’t have to find a reference book or even take a trip to the library! We were all amazed. Now it is totally accepted AND EXPECTED for our computers to do that for us. As a friend of mine mentioned….at one time a flushing toilet was an amazing thing.
Our speaker then talked about unsupervised learning, detecting patterns or similarities and reinforcement learning (learning from trial and error that is driven by a reward system).
The key ingredient in all of this is big data plus MASSIVE computing capabilities. (The number of transistors on a microchip doubles every two years.) With more data there is less trial and error.
Dr. Abraham went into several projects he is working on – Drug formulation and the inner eye.
He described some of the processes that they go through such as asking why a formulation failed, will it work if I tweak it and which experiences can I avoid. All of this allows AI to get to a working formula in less time than the old trial and error methods. This means quicker discovery, less time to market and getting the drug to those that need it quicker and for a cheaper cost.
Several questions were asked and answered. The speaker made it known that Microsoft does NOT look at an individual’s data…. (thankfully).
President Jim thanked Mr. Abraham for a very interesting program and adjourned the meeting. (This writer won’t mention at what time the meeting was adjourned, because of the President’s opening comments, but the time was not 1:30 p.m.)
1921 Agatha Christie publishes her first novel “The Mysterious Affair at Styles” introducing the character Hercule Poirot.
If you were born on January 21st you might like to know that you share a birthday with Rasputin, Gary Locke (Seattle), Paul Allen (Seattle), Geena Davis, Telly Savalas, Benny Hill, Christian Dior, Stonewall Jackson, and Jack Nicklaus. Oh, I almost forgot: also Oscar Wendall Magnuson in Two Harbors, Minnesota in 1904.
Be sure to tune in next week when our program will be –
In 1677 the first medical publication in America (pamphlet on smallpox) was published in Boston
Carole Wier shared that she was experiencing a heat wave in Minnesota. When she got up this morning it was 3 degrees but the thermometer had since climbed all the way up to 13 degrees as of the time of our meeting. (For her I believe it was 2:30PM.)
Gayle Selden publicly apologized to PP Bill Potter for joking him in the last Club Bulletin. Bill allowed that it was fine and recognition of any kind is great for PPs.
1813 - Spaniard Don Francisco de Paula y Marin plants coffee in Hawaii - first record of coffee growing in Hawaii.
Now back to our meeting:
President Jim called the meeting to order promptly at 12:30 p.m and immediately went mute……I’ll leave that alone. After coming back on President Jim noted that Andrew Kruse was slated to do the invocation but wasn’t in attendance. The Pres looked for Barlow Buescher and couldn’t find him either so he gave the invocation himself (gotta love a guy that will just take charge). It was obvious that Pres Jim is a preacher’s son. The Pres followed up the invocation by leading us in the pledge of allegiance. He then explained that, at the last Board meeting, the Board discussed the fees that the credit card companies charge and that, in the near future there will be a “convenience” fee charged by LR for using credit cards to pay for our various fines, donations etc.
1899 - Opel manufactures its first automobile
Making the Meeting happen: Co-Host: Leanna Christian
Recording of fines: John Lowney
Bulletin Writer: Donn Irwin
Foundation Desk: Please mail in contributions or go online
Monitoring This President’s Gaffes: Greg Rediske
Puffins attending: Wendy McGowan, Connie Coleman-Lacadie, Angela Connelly, James Osundwa.
No guests of Rotarians were noted.
Health and Wellness: Eric Warn shared that he had spoken with John Forkenbrock and that he is dealing with skin cancer but doing okay.
1908 - "Sullivan Ordinance" is passed in NYC, making it illegal for a woman to smoke in public places. It was vetoed 2 weeks later by Mayor George B. McClellan Jr.
John Lowney was called upon to let us know that somehow a donation for the Emergency Food Network had been promised for last year but had not been paid. John then asked for a motion from the group to authorize a $2000.00 payment to EFN. The motion was stated, a second was recognized and the motion passed unanimously.
President Jim then called upon Rose Stevens to talk about the Little Food Pantry project. Rose stated that they are looking for drop off points for donations. Rose asked that Lakewood Rotary members with businesses consider being a drop off point but that she would take any suggestions. Contact Rose or Bob Zawilski.
Above: Typical LFP
1915 - Kiwanis International founded in Detroit
Angela Connelly then alerted all of us to a Business Summit being put on by Tacoma Safe. So, if you wish to attend, the Summit is Wednesday 1/26 at America’s Car Museum. The summit is about having Tacoma be a safe city but it actually is a county-wide event. The Mayor of Tacoma along with the Pierce County Executive and four Council members are slated to be there. For more information contact Angela.
Oops – at this point it was noted by someone that, unbeknownst to him, Carl Bronkema’s wife Veronica was actually in attendance as a guest. Our President asked if her application for membership was in the pipeline yet. Carl confessed that it was still on his desk.
Anne Enquist had mentioned to President Jim that Amazon has a program called Amazon Smile that allows for donations to charitable organizations when we buy things. Leanna Christian walked us through the process of signing up for the program. Greg Rediske shared that last year the club received about $350.00 of “free” money. Just go to https://www.smile.amazon.com.
And get the app. It is really easy to just designate LR as your preferred charity.
1935 -12.0" (30.5 cm) of rain falls at Quinault Ranger Station, a Washington state record.
Eric Quinn, our Youth Exchange guy, is looking for hosts as the program is being ramped back up. NOTE: Families and anyone that lives in the home will have to show proof of vaccination against Covid.
1934 -Parisian baker and "student of medieval life" Henri Littière appears in court charged with forcing his adulterous wife Juliette to wear a chastity belt. Having committed the same offence in 1932, he was sentenced to three months in prison and fined 50 francs for cruelty to his wife.
Mary Marlin announced that there is a Zoom meeting that John Korsmo has set up regarding mentoring. The meeting is on January 27th. Give Mary a call for details and/or suggestions for mentors and mentees.
President Jim opened the floor for any questions we had for member Ron Banner – the Superintendent of Clover Park School District.
Above; Ron Banner
Our President asked how the basketball team was doing and Ron said that the activity is keeping the kids engaged and active through this pandemic. Ron also noted that the coaches and players are tested for Covid three times a week.
GR: Where are you with subs?
RB: If you have a four-year degree you can apply – they need teachers! They also need bus drivers.
MH: What’s happening with new boundaries.
RB: The school boundaries haven’t changed (although he is in discussions with Bethel School District over a small area that is in question) but the voting districts can change due to redistricting following the census. This is known as reapportionment, and is based on the constitutional principle of “one person, one vote”. The school district has a consultant working on the reapportionment process.
AE: What percentage of the staff is fully vaccinated?
RB: About 99%. Those that are exempt get tested once a week. The “fully vaccinated” definition does NOT include the booster at this time.
Fines and Generous Giving – Dr. Ralph Johnson – yesterday was my 94th birthday. The good doctor paid $100.00 for the privilege. Leanna Christian had a “milestone birthday” (she didn’t mention which one) and a getaway weekend. She rounded up her fine to $50.00 to cover for the trip. (You do the math as to her age.)
1994 - Dow Jones passes 3900 (record 3,914.20).
Picked up by this writer on “Chat” during the Zoom meeting: Rumor has it that John Warner will be coming back from the East Coast on 2/2.
Program: Artificial Intelligence and its relationship with medical research.
Above: Tom George (great to see our Puffins being so active)
Tom George gave an extensive introduction of our speaker, Robin Abraham, Ph.D. Mr. Abraham is the Director of Applied Science, Program Management & Engineering at Microsoft.
Dr. Abraham shared that he has taken inspiration from a book entitled “Astrophysics for People in a Hurry”. (This writer admits that this particular title is NOT on his list of must reads – mainly because I wouldn’t understand most of it.) Our speaker also shared that AI (artificial intelligence) is the most important thing that humanity is working on.
The program focused on AI and medicine but Dr. Abraham made the point that AI takes the magical and turns it into the mundane. Think back when we marveled at asking a computer a question like “who is x” and boom – you had an answer. You didn’t have to find a reference book or even take a trip to the library! We were all amazed. Now it is totally accepted AND EXPECTED for our computers to do that for us. As a friend of mine mentioned….at one time a flushing toilet was an amazing thing.
Our speaker then talked about unsupervised learning, detecting patterns or similarities and reinforcement learning (learning from trial and error that is driven by a reward system).
The key ingredient in all of this is big data plus MASSIVE computing capabilities. (The number of transistors on a microchip doubles every two years.) With more data there is less trial and error.
Dr. Abraham went into several projects he is working on – Drug formulation and the inner eye.
He described some of the processes that they go through such as asking why a formulation failed, will it work if I tweak it and which experiences can I avoid. All of this allows AI to get to a working formula in less time than the old trial and error methods. This means quicker discovery, less time to market and getting the drug to those that need it quicker and for a cheaper cost.
Several questions were asked and answered. The speaker made it known that Microsoft does NOT look at an individual’s data…. (thankfully).
President Jim thanked Mr. Abraham for a very interesting program and adjourned the meeting. (This writer won’t mention at what time the meeting was adjourned, because of the President’s opening comments, but the time was not 1:30 p.m.)
1921 Agatha Christie publishes her first novel “The Mysterious Affair at Styles” introducing the character Hercule Poirot.
If you were born on January 21st you might like to know that you share a birthday with Rasputin, Gary Locke (Seattle), Paul Allen (Seattle), Geena Davis, Telly Savalas, Benny Hill, Christian Dior, Stonewall Jackson, and Jack Nicklaus. Oh, I almost forgot: also Oscar Wendall Magnuson in Two Harbors, Minnesota in 1904.
Be sure to tune in next week when our program will be –
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Never Forget a Birthday
Monday, January 17, 2022 By: Gayle Selden
Never Forget a Birthday!THE LAKEWOOD KEY FOR January 14, 2022
It was the January 14th meeting and the Lakewood Rotary club was separated into the Zoom Brady Brunch squares. Before the meeting there were a lot of greetings to those members who we hadn’t seen in awhile including Ralph Johnson and Mo Sarram. Also joining at meeting time was Dave Covey. Yay for Zoom.
President Jim Rooks called the meeting to order at 12:30 welcoming all. Dave Coleman gave the invocation and Kendra Riconosciuto led our pledge. Jim thanked Kendra for helping on the Zoom, John Lowney for the collecting of fines, Gayle Selden for being kind during bulletin writing and Greg Rediske for helping with everything else. There were no visiting Rotarians but Veronica Bronkema joined us. Lots of Puffins in the house including our two new puffins-- Dwight Williams and Linda McDermott.
Our Health and Wellness report included a big welcome to Dr. Ralph Johnson who has spent the last seven months dealing with some serious health issues. He finally returned home Christmas Eve from his Mayo Clinic stay and is doing well. Mo Sarram also talked about how good he is doing and how much Rotary connections have meant to him.
Above: Greg Horn is (almost) always fun!
Greg Horn started Birthdays and Anniversaries reminding members of their partner’s birthdays. Those birthdays include Sharon Rediske, Lisa Daniels, Casey Loiland, Marilyn Zawilski and Marci Titus. It was at this point in time Bill Potter complained in the chat that his Birthday was forgotten. But Greg was just getting to the wedding anniversaries. Celebrations for John and Linda Forkenbrock (50 years); Phil and Judy Eng (37 years); Jim and Penny Rooks (33 years); Mick and Mary Johnson (24 years). Bill continued to complain about his Birthday being missed in the chat! But Greg was just to Rotary Anniversaries—Jessica James, Carl Bronkema, Barlow Buescher, Bill Allen, Rob Erb, Bob Hammar, John Caulfield, Cheri Loiland, Dave Reames, Jason Whalen, Dave Betz, James Guerrero, Leon Titus and Jim Bisceglia all had one of those. Finally, Greg got to member Birthdays and he recognized Gary Fulton, Stephen Enquist, Linda McDermott, Mike Brown, Clayton DeNault, Leanna Christian, Himself, Steve Mazoff, Ralph Johnson, Jim Bisceglia, Troy Wilcox, Donna Phillips, Cheri Loiland, Joe Quinn and Jessica James. He totally missed mentioning Bill Potter who had a Birthday the DAY before! And Bill knew Greg missed it before he had actually missed it. Was there a glitch in the Matrix? Is Bill Potter from the future? Or can Bill influence the future with thought? And if either of those are true why is Bill using those powers for Birthday recognition? I hope Bill chooses in this Birthday year to use his superpowers for the greater good. Anyway, Happy Birthday Bill.
Above: You gotta love it! Potter was laughing all the way to the bank with his friends.
Greg Horn then threw in $77 in recognition of his Birthday. Steve Enquist followed with $74.
President Rooks then called on John Lowney. John Lowney proposed on behalf of John Korsmo and the Puffins to utilize their collected funds from the Roast. It was moved, seconded and passed to send $1700 to Emergency Food Network and $500 to Caring for Kids. Good fundraising Puffins!
President Rooks then announced that we are planning on sending students to the World Affairs Seminar at Carroll University in Wisconsin June 18-24. This seminar is open to Juniors and Seniors in High School. Lakewood Rotary has sent a couple students every year; we pay airfare and for the weeklong stay at the college. The student and family are responsible for the student’s spending money. This program brings in students for lectures and work in a specific field. We encourage Lakewood Rotarians to send their own children, grandchildren or their friends to the seminar. It is a great way to see a glimpse of college life. If interested see John Lowney, whose grandchildren have attended the World Affairs Seminar and gotten a lot out of it. If we send in registrations in February there is an early bird discount so don’t delay.
Fines and Generous Giving started with $50 from Terry Roarke for a breakthrough asymptomatic Covid case. Jason Whalen took Bruce Dammeier’s challenge on and paid $50 for being Lakewood’s newest mayor and $50 for being Covid Positive (he added a dammit at the end). Mary Moss added a Greenleaf ($20) for being Deputy Mayor. Rick Selden gave $20 to honor Ralph Johnson. Gayle Selden added $20 for a quick trip to Tucson. Andrew Neiditz paid a fine for enjoying our meeting during 85 degree weather in Puerto Vallarta. Andrew also sent congratulations to Jason and Mary for leading his favorite city. Anne Enquist paid $26 to round up Steve’s fine to $100 including their trip to Scottsdale. James Osundwa paid $40 for a Disneyland adventure with the family and an extra $20 in honor of Jason and Mary. Steve Mazoff paid $79 for his Birthday. President Rooks fined himself $50-- a combo of 33 years with Penny and appreciation for Jason Whalen and Mary Moss.
Above: County Council Member Jani Hitchen
Our Program:
Mary Moss introduced Pierce County Council member Jani Hitchen. Jani is the district 6 representative to the Pierce County council. District 6 includes Lakewood, University Place, Steilacoom, Anderson and Ketron Island, Parkland and Dupont. Before she was council member she was a teacher including time at Lochburn in the Clover Park District. She is the mother to three and resides in Parkland.
Jani highlighted some programs that have helped the community with housing solutions including a Tacoma, Pierce County and Lakewood combined program Aspen Court which is the converted Comfort Inn that is currently housing those who are homeless. Jani also talked about the budgeting process that was just completed and highlighted a $30,000 grant to Springbrook Connections. The council has also given money to behavior health, expanding affordable housing, increasing broadband internet, sewer and water projects, small business grants and community clean-up programs.
Above: The Budget Slide
Jani opened up the floor for questions and answers. She invites all to send thoughts or questions to jani.hitchen@piercecountywa.gov or on the socials @cmjanihitchen.
Next week we are back on Zoom with Robin Abraham from Microsoft.
Above: Greg Horn is (almost) always fun!
Greg Horn started Birthdays and Anniversaries reminding members of their partner’s birthdays. Those birthdays include Sharon Rediske, Lisa Daniels, Casey Loiland, Marilyn Zawilski and Marci Titus. It was at this point in time Bill Potter complained in the chat that his Birthday was forgotten. But Greg was just getting to the wedding anniversaries. Celebrations for John and Linda Forkenbrock (50 years); Phil and Judy Eng (37 years); Jim and Penny Rooks (33 years); Mick and Mary Johnson (24 years). Bill continued to complain about his Birthday being missed in the chat! But Greg was just to Rotary Anniversaries—Jessica James, Carl Bronkema, Barlow Buescher, Bill Allen, Rob Erb, Bob Hammar, John Caulfield, Cheri Loiland, Dave Reames, Jason Whalen, Dave Betz, James Guerrero, Leon Titus and Jim Bisceglia all had one of those. Finally, Greg got to member Birthdays and he recognized Gary Fulton, Stephen Enquist, Linda McDermott, Mike Brown, Clayton DeNault, Leanna Christian, Himself, Steve Mazoff, Ralph Johnson, Jim Bisceglia, Troy Wilcox, Donna Phillips, Cheri Loiland, Joe Quinn and Jessica James. He totally missed mentioning Bill Potter who had a Birthday the DAY before! And Bill knew Greg missed it before he had actually missed it. Was there a glitch in the Matrix? Is Bill Potter from the future? Or can Bill influence the future with thought? And if either of those are true why is Bill using those powers for Birthday recognition? I hope Bill chooses in this Birthday year to use his superpowers for the greater good. Anyway, Happy Birthday Bill.
Above: You gotta love it! Potter was laughing all the way to the bank with his friends.
Greg Horn then threw in $77 in recognition of his Birthday. Steve Enquist followed with $74.
President Rooks then called on John Lowney. John Lowney proposed on behalf of John Korsmo and the Puffins to utilize their collected funds from the Roast. It was moved, seconded and passed to send $1700 to Emergency Food Network and $500 to Caring for Kids. Good fundraising Puffins!
President Rooks then announced that we are planning on sending students to the World Affairs Seminar at Carroll University in Wisconsin June 18-24. This seminar is open to Juniors and Seniors in High School. Lakewood Rotary has sent a couple students every year; we pay airfare and for the weeklong stay at the college. The student and family are responsible for the student’s spending money. This program brings in students for lectures and work in a specific field. We encourage Lakewood Rotarians to send their own children, grandchildren or their friends to the seminar. It is a great way to see a glimpse of college life. If interested see John Lowney, whose grandchildren have attended the World Affairs Seminar and gotten a lot out of it. If we send in registrations in February there is an early bird discount so don’t delay.
Fines and Generous Giving started with $50 from Terry Roarke for a breakthrough asymptomatic Covid case. Jason Whalen took Bruce Dammeier’s challenge on and paid $50 for being Lakewood’s newest mayor and $50 for being Covid Positive (he added a dammit at the end). Mary Moss added a Greenleaf ($20) for being Deputy Mayor. Rick Selden gave $20 to honor Ralph Johnson. Gayle Selden added $20 for a quick trip to Tucson. Andrew Neiditz paid a fine for enjoying our meeting during 85 degree weather in Puerto Vallarta. Andrew also sent congratulations to Jason and Mary for leading his favorite city. Anne Enquist paid $26 to round up Steve’s fine to $100 including their trip to Scottsdale. James Osundwa paid $40 for a Disneyland adventure with the family and an extra $20 in honor of Jason and Mary. Steve Mazoff paid $79 for his Birthday. President Rooks fined himself $50-- a combo of 33 years with Penny and appreciation for Jason Whalen and Mary Moss.
Above: County Council Member Jani Hitchen
Our Program:
Mary Moss introduced Pierce County Council member Jani Hitchen. Jani is the district 6 representative to the Pierce County council. District 6 includes Lakewood, University Place, Steilacoom, Anderson and Ketron Island, Parkland and Dupont. Before she was council member she was a teacher including time at Lochburn in the Clover Park District. She is the mother to three and resides in Parkland.
Jani highlighted some programs that have helped the community with housing solutions including a Tacoma, Pierce County and Lakewood combined program Aspen Court which is the converted Comfort Inn that is currently housing those who are homeless. Jani also talked about the budgeting process that was just completed and highlighted a $30,000 grant to Springbrook Connections. The council has also given money to behavior health, expanding affordable housing, increasing broadband internet, sewer and water projects, small business grants and community clean-up programs.
Above: The Budget Slide
Jani opened up the floor for questions and answers. She invites all to send thoughts or questions to jani.hitchen@piercecountywa.gov or on the socials @cmjanihitchen.
Next week we are back on Zoom with Robin Abraham from Microsoft.
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Back to Zooming
Sunday, January 9, 2022 By: Eric T Quinn
Back to ZoomingTHE LAKEWOOD KEY for January 7 2022 meeting
President Jim Rooks (PJ) rang the virtual meeting to order at 12:30 PM. Paula Olson gave the invocation. PJ led us in the Pledge.
Making the Meeting happen: Rob Erb and his tremendous set-up crew have their time off until we get back to our in-person meetings on February 11. Leanna Christian once again played the virtual co-host. John Lowney recorded fines. Eric Quinn played the scribe. Monitoring PJ’s Gaffes: Greg Rediske. (Note: Is he called PJ cuz he led the Zoom meeting while wearing his pajamas?)
From Rodney Dangerfield: “My wife and I were happy for twenty years. Then we met.”
As for the Foundation Desk: Please Mail in or pay online any contributions until we are back in person, thank you!
Assistant District Governor Tony Camoroda was our one visiting Rotarian.
We had one guest, Marisa Terry, the Club’s proposed candidate for a Global Grant Scholarship.
PJ recognized the Puffins:
Carl Bronkema, Rachel Mazoff, Steve Saalfeld
Jamie Simons, James Osundwa, Wendy McGowan, Connie Coleman-
Lacadie, Anthony Veliz, Bob Martin, Andy Phillips, Angela Connelly, and soon-to-be new members Linda McDermott and Dwight Williams
As to the Health and Wellness Report, Eric Warn was not present so PJ gave a report. John Warner is recovering well from surgery.
Above: John Warner….Get well soon!
Assistant District Governor Tony Camoroda gave a Presidential Citation to Past-President Mark Edgecomb. Mark gave special thanks to Greg Rediske for his assistance in helping him establish goals for the Club. He also thanked the Lakewood Rotary Board and the entire membership for a successful year. Mark was an outstanding Past President and remains an outstanding member.
Above: Mark Edgecomb got kisses and a Presidential Citation
Speaking of individuals, Rodney Dangerfield once said: “When I was born the doctor came out to the waiting room and said to my father, ‘I’m very sorry. We did everything we could…but he pulled through.’”
Bob Bruback gave an announcement on behalf of the Community Concerns Committee. The CCC want to give a $2,500.00 donation to Communities in Schools in Lakewood. This organization serves a variety of students, including many that are in the midst of poverty, in assisting them through the issues that they are facing. Rick Selden made the motion to make the $2,500.00 donation, and a second was made. The motion carried unanimously.
PJ introduced two new members: Dwight Williams (Sponsor: Phil Eng) and Linda McDermott (Sponsor: Leanna Christian). He reminded them to follow the Four Way Test: Is it the Truth? Is it Fair to All Concerned? Will it build good will and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? They of course were handed the standard packet including an invoice for their dues. (Actually, I think Greg Rediske went above and beyond and brought them all the stuff at their homes!)
Dwight thanked the Club for welcoming him. He appreciates the community focus. Dwight grew up in Pittsburgh. He served in the Army and was commissioned. Then he was stationed at Fort Lewis, and he has since lived in Washington for over 40 years. He and his wife have two children. Dwight has been active in various community organizations. Welcome to you, Dwight!
Linda is very excited to be a member of Rotary. Linda has been associated with the military in one form or another for most of her life. Her father was in the military and her husband is a West Point grad. Linda and her husband have two girls and one boy. She has served on the Board of Directors for Lakeview Light and Power and a variety of other community organizations. Welcome to you, Linda!
Greg and Mary Horn introduced the Club’s candidate for a Global Grant Scholarship, Marisa Terry. Marisa went to Charles Wright and Bellarmine. She is currently a senior at LSU in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She will be going to Queens University in Belfast, Ireland, next year. Marisa thanked everyone for welcoming her. She is finishing up her degree in International Relations and Environmental Studies. She wishes to have a service-oriented career. Greg and Mary said they are extremely proud of Marisa.
Tom George discussed the India Mammography Project. The Club has been working on this project under the guidance of Rose Stevens, Mark Edgecomb and Tom. We have been working on this project for approximately a year. The mammography machine was recently delivered to the hospital in India. John Lowney had a question about the project. As Club Treasurer, John indicated that the Club has a balance of $6,600 that has been earmarked for the India project, and he wished to know the plan for spending that. Tom stated that the donor is willing to part with the money so it can be allocated to another water project. Problem solved!
As for Fines and Generous Giving, Carl Bronkema gave $25.00 for his alma mater, Baylor, kicking Ole Miss’s butt in football.
Speaking of kicking butt, Rodney Dangerfield had a dog: “Some dog I got too. We call him Egypt because he leaves a pyramid in every room.”
The Program:
Above: Photo of Bruce Dammeier, Pierce County Executive
President-Elect and Lakewood Mayor Jason Whalen introduced Bruce Dammeier, the Pierce County Executive. Bruce was elected to State Senate in 2012 and served there through 2016. He became the Pierce County Executive in November 2016 and was just elected to a second term. He is a small business owner located in Lakewood—Printers Northwest. Jason reminded us that of course, Lakewood has no B&O tax, so Bruce is a wise businessman. Bruce is a member of Rotary #8 in Tacoma. He has served on the Boards of Goodwill Industries and a variety of other community organizations.
Bruce thanked Mayor Whalen for the introduction. He asked whether Jason had to pay a fine as a new mayor. He also noticed a variety of familiar faces in the virtual crowd. Bruce loves his job. The last few months have been pretty dynamic given the snow and the record-low temperatures. Another issue that we have had to address is the number of unhoused individuals that needed to be relocated to temporary shelter.
There has also been a huge COVID testing spike arising out of concern with the Omicron variant. The testing site at the old emissions testing location has been running strong for the last nine months, and there is a new testing site on the Washington State fairgrounds. Omicron is different in how transmissible it is, as Bruce is sure we are all aware of. The emergency departments in a variety of hospitals are understaffed and very busy. And this is not unique to hospitals. It is an issue in a variety of sectors and industries. Although Omicron is not necessarily deadly, it is putting a lot of people on the sidelines. The hope is that Omicron will peak in mid-to-late January. Bruce reminded us that the best course is to get vaccinated and boosted.
Pierce County’s two-year budget was just passed. There are a lot of positive things going on in Pierce County right now, specifically with respect to collaborative partnerships. Bruce stated that one of the best partners that Pierce County has is the City of Lakewood, which steps up to the plate regularly. The City of Lakewood was highly involved in the South Sound Housing Affordability Partnership with Pierce County, which we discuss further below. Bruce understands the importance of economic opportunity. The Pierce County BIPOC Business Accelerator promotes entrepreneurship among people of color in our community. More info on that here: https://www.pcba.biz/
Additionally, as we all know, housing prices in Pierce County have skyrocketed. We are working on ways to address that, which include but are not limited to providing for many other forms of housing. We are particularly focused on housing for the elderly and the unhoused. The South Sound Housing Affordability Partnership is made up of 14 government agencies, which again, Lakewood and Pierce County are a part of. We need more public-private partnerships. We need a private solution to delivering an affordable house. More information on the South Sound Housing Affordability Partnership here: https://www.piercecountywa.gov/7052/South-Sound-Housing-Affordability-Partne
Then there is the issue of homelessness. This is very significant in our community. The current solutions are not working. As Bruce put it so well, Pierce County does not believe in the approach of “enabling people to live in squalor.” We must take a comprehensive, transformational and restorative approach. There are a lot of people that want to help, but they have to believe that their money or other giving will actually direct people to the right path.
Bruce closed his presentation by saying that Pierce County persevered and benefited economically despite the Covid crisis. He then opened it up to questions.
Jason Whalen asked about the testing center at the emissions site being closed indefinitely. When can we expect something else to open up? Bruce indicated that, generally, the emissions site was testing 200 to 500 people a day. But last Sunday, 1700 people were tested on that site. This is creating traffic congestion and impacts to local business. So Pierce County is pivoting and is opening testing sites in Spanaway Lake Park, hopefully on Monday, and another testing site exists at the Washington State Fairgrounds.
Bill Potter inquired how the Club may become more involved in Human Services. Bruce informed Bill that Steve O’Ban is the person to speak with about this as he is the guru in human services at the County Executive’s office..
Rick Selden commended Pierce County’s efforts in working toward solutions on affordable housing and homelessness.
Steve Saalfeld had a question about homelessness. He wanted to express that a lack of education plays a major role in homelessness. He inquired about how education may play a role in combating homelessness. Bruce again stated that the Community First Village in Austin, Texas provides a great model for integrating members of the community. That is a key part—community engagement and education—in combating homelessness. More on Community First Village here: https://mlf.org/community-first/
David Swindale inquired about a recent policy brief from the Governor recommending legislation that mandates affordable housing in the form of precluding single-family residential zoning. Bruce stated that he had a meeting about that this morning in order to address this potential new mandate. The Governor’s policy brief is located here:
https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/Homelessness_PolicyBrief_Dec14.pdf?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Thank you, Executive Dammeier for a thoughtful and engaging presentation. We value your experience and contributions to the community.
And in closing, Rodney Dangerfield lamented his upbringing: “I remember the time I was kidnapped and they sent back a piece of my finger to my father. He said he wanted more proof.”
Above: Rodney Dangerfield
Assistant District Governor Tony Camoroda was our one visiting Rotarian.
We had one guest, Marisa Terry, the Club’s proposed candidate for a Global Grant Scholarship.
PJ recognized the Puffins:
Carl Bronkema, Rachel Mazoff, Steve Saalfeld
Jamie Simons, James Osundwa, Wendy McGowan, Connie Coleman-
Lacadie, Anthony Veliz, Bob Martin, Andy Phillips, Angela Connelly, and soon-to-be new members Linda McDermott and Dwight Williams
As to the Health and Wellness Report, Eric Warn was not present so PJ gave a report. John Warner is recovering well from surgery.
Above: John Warner….Get well soon!
Assistant District Governor Tony Camoroda gave a Presidential Citation to Past-President Mark Edgecomb. Mark gave special thanks to Greg Rediske for his assistance in helping him establish goals for the Club. He also thanked the Lakewood Rotary Board and the entire membership for a successful year. Mark was an outstanding Past President and remains an outstanding member.
Above: Mark Edgecomb got kisses and a Presidential Citation
Speaking of individuals, Rodney Dangerfield once said: “When I was born the doctor came out to the waiting room and said to my father, ‘I’m very sorry. We did everything we could…but he pulled through.’”
Bob Bruback gave an announcement on behalf of the Community Concerns Committee. The CCC want to give a $2,500.00 donation to Communities in Schools in Lakewood. This organization serves a variety of students, including many that are in the midst of poverty, in assisting them through the issues that they are facing. Rick Selden made the motion to make the $2,500.00 donation, and a second was made. The motion carried unanimously.
PJ introduced two new members: Dwight Williams (Sponsor: Phil Eng) and Linda McDermott (Sponsor: Leanna Christian). He reminded them to follow the Four Way Test: Is it the Truth? Is it Fair to All Concerned? Will it build good will and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? They of course were handed the standard packet including an invoice for their dues. (Actually, I think Greg Rediske went above and beyond and brought them all the stuff at their homes!)
Dwight thanked the Club for welcoming him. He appreciates the community focus. Dwight grew up in Pittsburgh. He served in the Army and was commissioned. Then he was stationed at Fort Lewis, and he has since lived in Washington for over 40 years. He and his wife have two children. Dwight has been active in various community organizations. Welcome to you, Dwight!
Linda is very excited to be a member of Rotary. Linda has been associated with the military in one form or another for most of her life. Her father was in the military and her husband is a West Point grad. Linda and her husband have two girls and one boy. She has served on the Board of Directors for Lakeview Light and Power and a variety of other community organizations. Welcome to you, Linda!
Greg and Mary Horn introduced the Club’s candidate for a Global Grant Scholarship, Marisa Terry. Marisa went to Charles Wright and Bellarmine. She is currently a senior at LSU in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She will be going to Queens University in Belfast, Ireland, next year. Marisa thanked everyone for welcoming her. She is finishing up her degree in International Relations and Environmental Studies. She wishes to have a service-oriented career. Greg and Mary said they are extremely proud of Marisa.
Tom George discussed the India Mammography Project. The Club has been working on this project under the guidance of Rose Stevens, Mark Edgecomb and Tom. We have been working on this project for approximately a year. The mammography machine was recently delivered to the hospital in India. John Lowney had a question about the project. As Club Treasurer, John indicated that the Club has a balance of $6,600 that has been earmarked for the India project, and he wished to know the plan for spending that. Tom stated that the donor is willing to part with the money so it can be allocated to another water project. Problem solved!
As for Fines and Generous Giving, Carl Bronkema gave $25.00 for his alma mater, Baylor, kicking Ole Miss’s butt in football.
Speaking of kicking butt, Rodney Dangerfield had a dog: “Some dog I got too. We call him Egypt because he leaves a pyramid in every room.”
The Program:
Above: Photo of Bruce Dammeier, Pierce County Executive
President-Elect and Lakewood Mayor Jason Whalen introduced Bruce Dammeier, the Pierce County Executive. Bruce was elected to State Senate in 2012 and served there through 2016. He became the Pierce County Executive in November 2016 and was just elected to a second term. He is a small business owner located in Lakewood—Printers Northwest. Jason reminded us that of course, Lakewood has no B&O tax, so Bruce is a wise businessman. Bruce is a member of Rotary #8 in Tacoma. He has served on the Boards of Goodwill Industries and a variety of other community organizations.
Bruce thanked Mayor Whalen for the introduction. He asked whether Jason had to pay a fine as a new mayor. He also noticed a variety of familiar faces in the virtual crowd. Bruce loves his job. The last few months have been pretty dynamic given the snow and the record-low temperatures. Another issue that we have had to address is the number of unhoused individuals that needed to be relocated to temporary shelter.
There has also been a huge COVID testing spike arising out of concern with the Omicron variant. The testing site at the old emissions testing location has been running strong for the last nine months, and there is a new testing site on the Washington State fairgrounds. Omicron is different in how transmissible it is, as Bruce is sure we are all aware of. The emergency departments in a variety of hospitals are understaffed and very busy. And this is not unique to hospitals. It is an issue in a variety of sectors and industries. Although Omicron is not necessarily deadly, it is putting a lot of people on the sidelines. The hope is that Omicron will peak in mid-to-late January. Bruce reminded us that the best course is to get vaccinated and boosted.
Pierce County’s two-year budget was just passed. There are a lot of positive things going on in Pierce County right now, specifically with respect to collaborative partnerships. Bruce stated that one of the best partners that Pierce County has is the City of Lakewood, which steps up to the plate regularly. The City of Lakewood was highly involved in the South Sound Housing Affordability Partnership with Pierce County, which we discuss further below. Bruce understands the importance of economic opportunity. The Pierce County BIPOC Business Accelerator promotes entrepreneurship among people of color in our community. More info on that here: https://www.pcba.biz/
Additionally, as we all know, housing prices in Pierce County have skyrocketed. We are working on ways to address that, which include but are not limited to providing for many other forms of housing. We are particularly focused on housing for the elderly and the unhoused. The South Sound Housing Affordability Partnership is made up of 14 government agencies, which again, Lakewood and Pierce County are a part of. We need more public-private partnerships. We need a private solution to delivering an affordable house. More information on the South Sound Housing Affordability Partnership here: https://www.piercecountywa.gov/7052/South-Sound-Housing-Affordability-Partne
Then there is the issue of homelessness. This is very significant in our community. The current solutions are not working. As Bruce put it so well, Pierce County does not believe in the approach of “enabling people to live in squalor.” We must take a comprehensive, transformational and restorative approach. There are a lot of people that want to help, but they have to believe that their money or other giving will actually direct people to the right path.
Bruce closed his presentation by saying that Pierce County persevered and benefited economically despite the Covid crisis. He then opened it up to questions.
Jason Whalen asked about the testing center at the emissions site being closed indefinitely. When can we expect something else to open up? Bruce indicated that, generally, the emissions site was testing 200 to 500 people a day. But last Sunday, 1700 people were tested on that site. This is creating traffic congestion and impacts to local business. So Pierce County is pivoting and is opening testing sites in Spanaway Lake Park, hopefully on Monday, and another testing site exists at the Washington State Fairgrounds.
Bill Potter inquired how the Club may become more involved in Human Services. Bruce informed Bill that Steve O’Ban is the person to speak with about this as he is the guru in human services at the County Executive’s office..
Rick Selden commended Pierce County’s efforts in working toward solutions on affordable housing and homelessness.
Steve Saalfeld had a question about homelessness. He wanted to express that a lack of education plays a major role in homelessness. He inquired about how education may play a role in combating homelessness. Bruce again stated that the Community First Village in Austin, Texas provides a great model for integrating members of the community. That is a key part—community engagement and education—in combating homelessness. More on Community First Village here: https://mlf.org/community-first/
David Swindale inquired about a recent policy brief from the Governor recommending legislation that mandates affordable housing in the form of precluding single-family residential zoning. Bruce stated that he had a meeting about that this morning in order to address this potential new mandate. The Governor’s policy brief is located here:
https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/Homelessness_PolicyBrief_Dec14.pdf?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Thank you, Executive Dammeier for a thoughtful and engaging presentation. We value your experience and contributions to the community.
And in closing, Rodney Dangerfield lamented his upbringing: “I remember the time I was kidnapped and they sent back a piece of my finger to my father. He said he wanted more proof.”
Above: Rodney Dangerfield
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2021 The Rotary Year in Review
Sunday, December 26, 2021 By: Joseph F. Quinn
Lakewood Rotary Year in Review by Joe QuinnDecember 30, 2021
The First Quarter:
The second half of President Mark Edgecomb’s year started in full-Zoom fashion in January of 2021. Lakewood Rotary’s first Little Free Pantry was unveiled. A program on Lakewold Gardens was featured. Major Donors Rose Stevens and Phil Eng were honored for reaching the $10,000 level of giving to the Rotary Foundation. Puffin James Osundwa asked, “What are Puffins exactly?” Well that set off a paroxysm of explanations and photos! A Valentine’s Eve Zoom Party was announced…so many new traditions have been born during this Covid-19 pandemic. There were 60 attendees at one Zoom meeting that Mark managed masterfully, with the help of Leanna Christian. A move away from Clubrunner to DACdb was announced by Mary Horn. The Treasurer and the Bulletin Editor were noticed to be cringing but it worked out OK, eventually. The online auction prep started in February and one program featured Domino’s Pizza, soon to be a major sponsor. Fellowship included hikes to stay outdoors together during Covid. The second LFP was started. We got a thank you from Wreaths Across America, one of hundreds of small to medium gifts LR makes all year long, such as the Break Bags. Our very own DG Greg Horn reported that over 400 attended the District 5020 training. At Lakewood Rotary, it was announced that over $6000 was raised for Rotary Foundation…in one week!!
Above: Some pictorial highlights of Quarter #1. All composite photos made by Walt Richardson who helped the Editor select the best ones.
The Second Quarter (almost halftime):
In April, we had our DG visit, all the way from Lake Steilacoom. Greg Horn reported that 5020 has 993 clubs and about 4400 members—the biggest international district in the RI world. Spring Fling game night was announced as a smaller fundraiser to support the LR projects and budget. We ultimately raised about $7695 on this unique game night. Sweat equity work included a work party at the South Sound Wildlife Park (the game refuge on Chambers Creek). As another fundraiser LR Rotarians paid or pledged money to see our President Mark and President-Elect Jim Rooks jump into Steilacoom Lake on a date to be announced. When it finally happened, at the Mazoff=Whalen compound on the lake, new President-Elect-Elect Jason Whalen would join them. The Little Free Pantries are meanwhile popping up all over Lakewood! The Auction grew closer and Sip by Sip was born…a wine tasting and pre-auction event dreamed up by Steve and Anne Enquist. That fundraiser within a fundraiser added some more oomph to the Auction when it happened in June. Education Incentive Awards (former known as scholarships) were given to deserving local high school students at one (still) virtual meeting. Think that was about $10,000 or more. In the pre-meeting gathering it was announced that President Mark had Covid-19 but he survived to finish his reign in style. A virtual District Conference was announced for June. In June we held our first-ever online auction and the take was reported at more than $80,000 so it was more successful than we could have hoped. Thanks were given to Nicole Hancock and Eric Quinn, co-leaders of the committee who said that many, many more needed to be thanked. Sponsors galore were named at varying levels so the costs of the auction were more than covered by sponsorships. Domino’s Pizza gave so much that they are featured in a free ad in every bulletin of LR through next June! The Installation was held in-person at the Tacoma Country and Golf Club for our first time together in countless months. Yay! Goodbye to Mark Edgecomb was fondly conveyed and a warm welcome was given to President Jim Rooks. John Magnuson wrote a nice summary in the bulletin of the 2021-2021 year at LR…worth re-reading. How about that awesome stable of writers of our Lakewood Key, led by Ole and by Greg Rediske, according to Donn Irwin and others who follow very well. We finished June with about 5 LFPs, thanks to the likes of Mark Blanchard and John Lowney who do the physical building and Bob Zawilski, Rose Stevens and Sally Porter Smity who were so instrumental in getting this program going. Bob went over to a Gig Harbor Rotary club and spoke about it; they immediately committed to build four LFPs over there.
Above: Second Quarter highlights photos
Quarter #3: A New Reign Begins!
Little Free Pantries 5 and 6 have been installed by July. An in-person Board meeting was held at Tacoma Country & Golf Club. Usually not newsworthy but this has been nonexistent during the pandemic. A hailstorm erupted during one July meeting. No, not ice pellets. It was just LR Rotarians going crazy to donate big to the Lakewood Community Foundation in honor of the late Ward Fletcher who was a huge contributor to the RI Foundation. We celebrated an old LR tradition this month with a Floating Board Meeting—an in-person party on the party boats of Lake Steilacoom. At the Floating Board picnic we honored Greg Horn and his Chief of Staff—Mary Horn—for this great and challenging year as District Governor of District 5020. August included great fellowship events including the Reeder Roadster Romp, which took us past the Winlock Egg and we ended up in Cannon Beach. Memorable. A club assembly was highlighted by the RI Foundation report from Steve Enquist. We are up to $1,275,000 as a club in our all-time giving and can boast 96 Paul Harris Fellows,19 Benefactors, 8 Bequest Society members and 13 Major Donors. Our RI Foundation giving in the recently completed Rotary year exceeded $50,000 when one includes the Annual Fund, Polio Plus, the endowment and our club contributions to global grants. It is a LR priority for sure. August also so the club’s interest in a Peanut Butter Challenge, which involved collecting peanut butter at grocery stores and then giving to the food bank. Then, in late August, it finally happened! We were back at the Country Club on a Friday at noon for an in-person Rotary meeting for the first time since March of 2020. Unbelievable. The only new wrinkle was that we also had a Zoom component with about a dozen members and guests attending virtually—a so-called hybrid meeting. A different and interesting program featured our very own Morris Northcutt and his escapades across the world playing his trumpet and making fine music. One September program featured Past President Ben Sclair (whose Mom was also a LR President) who spoke about his family’s love of airplanes and flying them. September saw the induction of at least one new member—something we have excelled at in 2021 for some unknown reason. More on that in the fourth quarter.
Above: One more composite photo.
The Final Quarter—it was a doozy.
Kendra Riconosciuto reported that altogether more than 2000 jars of peanut butter were collected in our two-day drive. Not bad! We will again support the South Tacoma Rotary’s Putt Putt tourney and fundraiser at Harkness Furniture in October. The work party at the South Sound Wildlife area went very well. New District Governor Lorna Curtis motivated us during her DG visit this month and even helped induct yet another new Puffin into Lakewood Rotary. Community Concerns Committee led us in giving $2000 to the Making a Difference Foundation, along with $900 to the Lakewood Art Festival and $100 to the Hope Sparks Family Services, which helps families dealing with behavioral and emotional issues. A most interesting program was delivered by Andrew Siegel, a Seattle U. Law School professor who Anne Enquist wrangled into speaking to us about the current U.S. Supreme Court. Programs this year are truly being done by committee as several members stepped up to garner several programs each to make the Program Chair’s job a bit easier. In November, the Bulletin Committee had a rare glitch as we had no writer in attendance; in true LR fashion, Greg Rediske and Gayle Selden both stepped up to co-write a most extraordinary bulletin. A few items got reported twice we think but make no mistake: Mary Horn was awarded her 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th Paul Harris awards. That has to be the most PH awards awarded to one awardee at one sitting, at least in our club. November saw a lot of good work by LR Rotarians too. We were getting ready for the bike distribution at Christmas time again, so the Community Concerns Committee got us to pony up $2000 for the Waste Connection Build a Bike program, which is where get about 40 bikes annually to give out Rose Stevens said a special food collection was done at City Hall during the last days of the election cycle and two vans worth of food were collected by LR working with Lakewood Lions. December festivities started with the Lakewood Rotary Partners sponsoring the annual Christmas Party at the club, featuring dancing and other festivities. Things really felt pretty normal, even though we know they are not with the pandemic raging still. All of the December Puffin and LR giving projects are starting to heat up as is preparation for the always fun Tom & Jerry party and Presidential Roast that all enjoy…well all but one Rotarian enjoys it. At the second December meeting the LFP committee and our Treasurer John Lowney updated us on the finances of the LFP. With a $10,000 grant from the Greater Tacoma Community Foundation and more than $3200 in member contributions, the LFP “balance” in the bank is healthy. John said it cost about $300 in materials alone to build one pantry, not to mention his hours and those of Mark Blanchard to install them. Hopefully, they get reimbursed for out-of-pocket costs at least. One of the year’s final highlights was of course the Roast of the President –Dr. Jim Rooks—on December 17th. The Roast and the Tom & Jerry’s did not disappoint. Amidst the merriment a lot was raised for LR good causes. Speaking of which, the next day a lot of us volunteered for either Break Bag distribution (for Communities in Schools) or bike distribution. Some, like maybe Greg Rediske, did both gigs the same day. Great job by our legions of Puffins in organizing the roasting of the president. This crop of Puffins is one of the largest I have ever seen in more than thirty (30) years in Lakewood Rotary. It was a very good year in some hard times; we cannot thank every one of you herein, but we have to mention the strong leadership of Mark Edgecomb our 2020-21 President, and the very fine first half of a Rotary year by our current Big Kahuna Jim Rooks.
Above: Oh what the heck—one more.
And some individual photos too.
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The Roast Photopalooza!
Sunday, December 19, 2021 By: Joseph F. Quinn
The Roast Photopalooza! This is not the Lakewood Key for the December 17, 2021 meeting--the Roast of President Jim Rooks. Hopefully, you will see that later this evening. In this Unbulletin, we include only the fantastic photographs taken by Walt Richardson and Phil Eng, our duo of photographers who documented key events, key players, and other shenanigans that took place at Lakewood Rotary on Friday.Above: The first composite photo ever used in the Lakewood Key, by Walt Richardson--A good summary of the event.
Above: The Tom & Jerry Team, ready to tend bar and start the merriment! Photo by Walt.
Above: One of the merry revelers, a veteran Rotarian, Duncan Cook after Gayle gave him a drink.
Phil Eng photo.
Above: The Puffins at work on a skit about Jim Rooks' medical practice as an ENT doc. At least we think that is what they were up to. Phil Eng photo.
Above: The Puffins closed it out with Have Yourself a Merry Christmas. Photo by Phil Eng.
Great job on this event Puffins. Hope someone kept good track of Jim Rooks' huge fine.
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Rooks Roasted!
Sunday, December 19, 2021 By: Paula T. Olson
The Roasting of Doctor James RooksTHE LAKEWOOD KEY
It’s the Friday before Christmas and all through the room, everyone was stirring, hot Toddies and rum. The children were all learning at school with hopes that their grandparents would safely get home. The Annual LR Tom & Jerry Party and Roast of the President.
Okay enough of that.
Above: So here he is: the Guest of Honor, President Jim Rooks by Walt Richardson photo.
At 12:30 p.m. promptly the Roasting of President Jim began! Before the official start, the Puffins instructed us to write something nice about Jim on a tongue depressor. Now, I understand the term “roast” means “to criticize or reprimand severely” or to subject the guest of honor to good-natured ridicule. And frankly, it was more like a slow cook than a roast. Where were the stories of Jim playing pranks, getting sent to the principal’s office or yelled at by the medical director? Where were the disgruntled ex-girlfriends? The neighbors complaining about code violations at the Rooks’ house? Either Jim is truly the nice guy we know him to be or the Puffins were paid off in a spectacular fashion.
Puffin Steve Saalfeld was at the helm of the meeting. Puffin Bob Martin led with what he hoped would pass for a prayer. He asked the Lord for forgiveness for the untruthful, ridiculous and awful things they would do to Pres. Jim and that lots of fines would be paid for the good of the community. Since no one was designated to lead the Pledge of Allegiance, we all did it together. Then with the Top Gun theme song playing, the Puffin meeting takeover was complete and Jim entered the danger zone. And of course the usual disclaimer: any mistake was the fault of the Puffin Committee, not the Puffins themselves.
This writer has a little disclaimer of her own. Tom and Jerrys were served at lunch per our tradition. This drink contains rum and/or brandy. These drinks were started in the 1820’s by Pierce Egan who was promoting his play entitled “Life in London” with two main characters, Tom and Jerry. Thus two types of alcoholic beverages. Paula had one T & J. Okay, two T & Js but the second one only because of the peer pressure. (Well, maybe she had three…The Editor says read on and decide for yourself.) Alcohol can cause brain cells to shrink, causing a person taking notes at a meeting to produce unreadable, indecipherable scribbling. Therefore, any mistakes are the result of Editor Joe Quinn trying to remember what the heck Paula was writing about. This meets the Four-Way Test, except that Quinn was tending bar and tippling a bit on the side as you can see in photos. A $20 fine was paid for the grievous omission.
President Jim Rooks grew up in Florida and to keep Jim in his seat, Kyle the Alligator (well, it wasn’t a real alligator but it was scary) was displayed to keep an eye on Jim. Meeting set up was done by Rob Erb, James Osundwa, Rick Selden and Kendra Riconosciuto and Paula Olson writing every little thing down for prosperity and the bulletin. Fines were going to Communities in Schools, Emergency Food Network, and Caring for Kids. Cash, plastic, and IOUs were accepted. We had someone visiting on Zoom and Assistant Governor Tony Camoroda was in the room. Guests included Olivia Whalen, daughter of Jason Whalen who heard there was free booze, Jennie Weinand, wife of Jim Weinand, Leanna Christian’s son Alexander, Pam Lowney, John’s wife, and Sharon Rediske, Greg’s wife. Rick Selden introduced Kris Quinn, Joe’s wife, who although seated right next to Kris, was confused about if he had brought her or left her home. See what I mean about the tippling Irishman.
Puffins then offered quite the deal. Pay $100 up front and you got full immunity. Less protection for less money was also offered. Greg Horn paid $50 and was later shamed into upping it to $75, along with Mary Horn matching him, Jim Weinand paid $100 as did Jason Whalen. Bob Martin then paraded in poor President Jim for the disgraceful duty of honoring him. Getting deeper into Jim’s past, he graduated from the University of Florida, then University of Miami Medical School. Then back to University of Florida for his ENT residency. For those of you who are acronym challenged, that means Ear, Nose and Throat, President Jim’s specialty. He stayed there for two years on staff. He then joined the U. S. Air Force in 1969 and did a year in Vietnam. He was assigned to a fighter squadron as a flight surgeon and flew 44 missions so he could understand what his patients experienced so he could be a better surgeon. This was all why he was wearing a commemorative hat and jacket. Jim said that some people have thought that the hat means he served in World War II, which apparently gives Jim some concern as he really doesn’t look that old. Jim was then fined $10 for making the jacket look better than on Tom Cruise. Back to Jim’s life. He practiced medicine in Florida for a time and then came to Washington State in 2014. He retired at the age of 73, which is more disturbing than thinking he served in WWII because he looks so darn young.
Eric Warn on behalf of the Health and Wellness Committee (heretofore called the Sunshine Committee) asked everyone to bring in their old glasses to donate to the Lakewood Lions. Mary Horn announced that John Warner had suffered a heart attack on the east coast while visiting with his son. He is in the hospital for a time and would love emails and notes. Bill Potter tried to get serious with his announcements that break bags needed to be delivered as well as 40 bikes on Saturday morning. He needed 7-10 drivers to do the deeds. Email Bill if you can help.
Above: Bill spoke and it was done: The Bike Build distribution day. Photo thanks to Bill P.
Then he announced the slate of officers for next year: Mary Horn – President Elect, Greg Rediske – Secretary; John Lowney – Treasurer; and Dave Swindale, Tom George and Barlow Buescher – New Trustees. A motion to approve the slate was made and seconded and all voted in favor. No dissenters. Anne Enquist asked for approval to spend $2,000 for the stove team. Moved, seconded and unanimous approval. Mary Horn and Rose Stevens accepted a quilt from the patients at Western State Hospital in appreciation of Lakewood Rotary. It was auctioned off at an impromptu live auction and Puffin Angela Connelly got it for $200.
Because the bulletin should be informing and educational, a group of puffins are called either a colony, a puffinry, a circus, a burrow, a gathering, or an improbability. For real. I looked it up. (Huh? I thought it was a Puffoonery – Ed.) In the case of Lakewood Rotary, our Puffins are better known as An Improbability. They are:
Angela Connelly (sponsored by Jim Rooks) who was impressed by the number of members Jim has sponsored and fined every member $5.00 who was not sponsored by Jim.
Bob Martin was sponsored by Greg and Mary Horn, who installed his deck but left off four bolts. Bob fined them for $5 per bolt as they were small bolts.
Rachel Mazoff, sponsored NOT by her father, Steve Mazoff, who got double fined but by President Jim Rooks. Rachel was set to work editing policies by Jim Rooks when he was President of some medical committee or at Multicare. Something about $10 for documents and $20 for photo editing.
Wendy McGowan was sponsored by John Lowney who she knew when he was only 15 years old; that is probably when he started working for her late husband and famed LR Rotarian, Mike McGowan. John, who is our Treasurer, needed to be fined lots of money, like $500 which John said needed a formal disbursement request. Not so fast, John!
Andy Phillips was also sponsored by Jim Rooks who fined him only $20 because he was getting to be a poor man. Andy has known Jim for years as a neighbor and friend. There was some rowdiness on the Fourth of July but this reporter was taking a sip of T & J and can’t read her notes.
James Osundwa was sponsored by Mark Edgecomb. Barlow kicked in $20, in sympathy for James as his sponsor was not here today.
Anthony Veliz, also sponsored by guess who—Jim Rooks. He met Jim at the Lakewood Multicultural Coalition. The two ended up in the men’s room at the same time, and as all men do, started chatting about Rotary, while standing next to each other at the urinals. He told Anthony he really, really should join Lakewood Rotary. Apparently Jim displayed some urgency (about the membership, not the other) and Anthony could think of nothing else to do but say “yes.” The two men shook on it and here Anthony is. Jim got fined $100 for disturbing the peace. (Yes, this is a true story. Seems our Jim isn’t perfect and us women should be glad we won’t be hanging out with Jim Rooks in the men’s room. But as you can see from the number of Puffins sponsored by Jim Rooks, he never steps recruiting, literally everywhere!)
Carl Bronkema who was appearing from a rockery in Florida was not sponsored by Jim Rooks. Jason Whalen was his sponsor and they met at a wine club where there was some funny business resulting in Jason being cut off at the next party and fined $150 for creating a problem. Oh no, I guess it was a fine of $10 per wine club, so Jason is a member of 15 wine clubs!?
Steve Saalfeld was sponsored by Tanya Winsky, who is no longer a member. So Steve said that everyone was fined $2.00 for not retaining Tanya as a member. Huh? Yes, we all had to pony up $2 each and place it in the middle of the table.
Then Jim was led out with a medical team wearing these really big ears, that would be great in a horror movie. Angela Connelly said that we would go even deeper into Jim’s background. She called Jim a “Renaissance Man” for all the different roles he’s played in life. His Florida hat was replaced with a golf club. Then we saw a very informative video of Jim in Florida. He was a fifth generation Floridian.
The medical team said the ears made them good listeners even though they were red and infected. Which does the good doctor Jim recommend – medicine or tubes? Next patient was afflicted with a dripping nose that included worms, delicious worms as it turns out. Doc Jim recommended that he shave his beard and come back in six months. Next patient had a painful voice. Doc Rooks donned some gloves and went in deep to see what was causing the problem. Out he pulled a fish and recommended that Bob Martin chew his food more. Next came out an oyster on the half shell with a mother of pearl. Doc Jim recommended that he not eat the shell.
The last hat put on President Jim was a Santa hat, the best hat of all. This means that Jim is a man of service, giving of himself with hope, love and cheer. The Improbability gathered around Jim and we sang “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” The meeting closed with enthusiastic applause, ringing with love for President Jim Rooks. Ron Irwin won the drawing but didn’t win the pot.
Above: Didn’t the Puffins do a great job? Photo by Phil Eng.
Happy Holidays to all. Don’t come December 24th or December31st unless you want to sit and eat lunch alone as no meetings until January 7, 2022. Happy New Year, Everyone! And do not forget we will not be meeting at Tacoma Country and Golf Club during the entire month of January. All meetings will be via Zoom so look for those invitations from Dr. Rooks.
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The Lull Before the Storm
Saturday, December 11, 2021 By: Mary Marlin
The Lull Before the Storm.THE LAKEWOOD KEY
Today it is… the Friday before the Tom and Jerry hydration opportunity, which arrives next week! Yes, the lull before the storm! Yes, one more week for President Jim Rooks to celebrate leading the team to victory in 2021. Simply being able to show up healthy is a mega-step in the right direction! Next week with the Puffin Roast, much will be celebrated!
Today we stood happily as the chime caught our attention. Tom George led the invocation and expressed appreciation for our individual differences that when joined together lead to our opportunities to assist others toward our common goals. President Jim admitted he forgot to ask a member to lead us in the Pledge, so he generously and thoughtfully did it himself.
Those assisting today were Rob Erb, James Osundwa, Tom George, Rick Selden and Gayle Selden with the set up. John Lowney smiled as he was designated the fine collector. Mary Marlin and Phil Eng were the Bulletin writer and photographer, respectively. Terry Roarke was the Sergeant at Arms. Bill Allen documented Foundation donations ($375 collected today) and Greg Rediske was officially in charge of monitoring the President's unlikely gaffes.
President Rooks then asked if there were any visitors. Ed Shannon introduced his wife, Jayne. Duke Paulson was introduced by Angela Connelly who would like to encourage Duke to join. Jason Whalen introduced Dwight Williams, who is considering Rotary. Those at his table could be heard encouraging him to join. Maria Tobin, who works with our speaker, was acknowledged and appreciated. Ellen Mazoff and Carole Wier were given kudos for zooming with us today. Puffins Wendy McGowan, Angela Connelly, Andy Phillips, James Osundwa, Bob Martin, Carl Bronkema, Connie Coleman-Lacadie, Rachel Mazoff, Steve Saalfeld, Jamie Simons and Anthony Veliz were applauded for their efforts as Puffins. We'll know more of their talents next Friday at the Puffin Roast of President Rooks.
CLUB BUSINESS: Rob Erb mentioned a $2500 grant from the Military Appreciation Appreciation committee, which was approved by unanimous consent, as required for all grants of $2000 or more, according to our Bylaws.
HEALTHE AND WELLNESS (formerly Sunshine): Eric Warn was asked about members’ health and wellness. Unfortunately, Bill Price is now home but still not well and cannot see a specialist for nearly two to three months. Eric mentioned that he would also like good news about the health of our members as well as those who may need our kind thoughts.
LITTLE FREE PANTRIES: Bob Zawilski and John Lowney then gave information about the Little Free Pantries and the club’s financing of the eight pantries. To date $3,540 has been donated by members and a $10, 000 grant was received from the Greater Tacoma Community Foundation. $4400 has been spent so far to build the pantries and to provide food. The balance in that LFP “account” is now $9050. John was given kudos for building some pantries and when asked, John said that it may cost from $250 to $330 just for the materials to build a pantry and could take approximately 8 hours to complete. He thanked Mark Blanchard for setting the posts on which the LFPs are built. Shortages of lumber can also be a concern. All in all, pantries are getting done and staying stocked. Several clubs have helped with repairs and painting. Suggestions for helping include giving protein items, telling others about how they can help, holding food drives and also helping stock the pantries with hygiene supplies.
SUPPORT A FAMILY: Mary Horn and Rose Stevens have been assisting a family of 6 for a few years now. They admit this is not a Rotary club charity, but a personal one. Check Mary's email for specific donations for the children in the family and for monetary donations that will help beyond the holidays.
BREAK BAGS: Bill Potter encouraged members to help with Break Bags on Dec. 18th as well as with the bike deliveries, especially on base the same day.
NEW OFFICERS: Bill also mentioned as head of the nominating committee for next year that the slate of new officers is set. David Swindale, Tom George and Barlow Buescher will be incoming board members. John Lowney will be Treasurer. Greg Rediske will continue as Secretary and Mary Horn will be President Elect-Elect, and taking the office of President in July 2023. Welcome all!! Congratulations or condolences?
BIRTHDAYS AND ANNIVERSARIES: Greg Horn then reminded us of Birthdays and Anniversaries. Here are the birthdays: Scott Buser, Dec. 16/John Forkenbrock, Dec. 25!/Chuck Hellar, Dec. 18...best gift was going to Istanbul and Athens on a cruise/Bob Peterson, Dec. 4/Jim Sharp, Dec. 28/Paul Wulfestieg, Dec. 31/ and Anthony Veliz, Dec. 8! Partner Birthdays: Nicola Edgecomb on Dec. 24, Sue Hellar on Dec. 30 and Jayne Shannon on Dec 27th. Here are the years that our members have been in the club: Mary Horn-5, Paula Olson-5, Peter Marsh-6, Wynn Hoffman-13, Sally Smith-14, Andrew Neiditz-16, Terry Roarke-20, John Korsmo-31, Jerry Williams-32, David Covey-38, Bob Lordahl-47, and John Warner wins with 49 years in the club! Wedding Anniversaries include: Clint Johnson with Sharlynn for 2 years, Eric Quinn and Johanah for 4 years, James Osundwa and Shiru for 6 years, Carl Bronkema and Veronica for 18 years, David Swindale and Mary for 29 years and Vaughn Hoffman and his wife Connie have been married for 55 years! Congratulations to all!!
GENEROUS GIVING: Then came the opportunity for Generous Giving, i.e. Fines! David Swindale gave Bill Potter a colorful rugby shirt Bill had admired when he was President. Go New Zealand!!Chuck Hellar gave a thank you and shout out to John Lowney for fixing a Little Free Pantry at a moment's notice. Wendy McGowan donated $100 for the special news that her daughter is now the managing director of Goldman Sachs in Los Angeles! She's also been traveling to Chicago and Los Angeles. Barlow Buescher donated $100 as a thank you to John Lowney and a tribute to his new pup...Lumpy? (not yet named) and to Barb Spriggs for the auction item of Donatello's in San Francisco, which Barlow and his wife enjoyed greatly.
THE PROGRAM:
And now for our speaker of the day, Colonel Bill Adamson of the South Sound Military and Communities Partnership! John Caulfield, by Zoom, then introduced Colonel Adamson by mentioning that he is a highly decorated officer....combat officer...that recently completed his duties at the Pentagon. He was a lead on developing armaments that would protect troops and vehicles from IED attacks in Iraq and Afghanistan. His current job is to promote relationships on both sides of the fence between military facilities and communities. He actually taught high school, played on the Montreal Expos baseball team and theirTriple A baseball team in Colorado. With that, the applause resounded.
Colonel Adamson then told us of his job with the South Sound Military and Communities Partnership. Here are the facts. The intent of SSMCP is to improve and formalize collaboration between the military and the community leaders. There are legislative priorities and policy decisions. The value of having this Partnership is that there is a Great American Defense Community. Benefits are marketing opportunities, advocating shared legislative agenda, improving awareness for all, connecting networks of elected officials and military professionals. A focus on a Growth Coordination Plan to especially address health care, transportation and how the foundation will better build collaboration between the military and local communities is essential. Land use is a big factor in conversations and decision making. JBLM's economic impact is 34, 000 jobs statewide and 25,500 in just the South Sound. Ft. Lewis and McChord are rapidly growing, therefore, the need is to better coordinate Dept. of Defense and local government decisions. One particular concern is the I-5 corridor as it traverses the Nisqually River Delta. Environmental studies are essential to determine the impact of climate change and the variables that will affect salmon habitat and Nisqually tribal fishing. The facts are that the tribe used to fish 8 months a year. Now they can only fish 8 days a year because of weather issues and climate change. Sea levels are rising, storms are more devastating, and commerce is suffering. If I-5 is impacted severely, as it will be reported to be even more in the next several years, transportation will be greatly affected as dire as the recent train derailment north of Nisqually. Road changes need to be made to be back up systems when commerce will be affected. Money, collaboration, information, deliberation, habitat, history and potential crises all need to be brought to the table and discussed.
Just north of the landing zone at McChord, currently 21 active businesses are in a North Clear Zone which is supposed to have no people in it. Property needs to be cleared. Thirty two acquisition projects are now critical to success. Nine thousand people come and go at Joint Base Lewis McChord year to year. How do we make this all work??? A good question! And thank you ,Colonel Adamson, for working toward solutions with legislators and community leaders and sharing your successes and concerns. We hope to hear more in the future!
With that, President Jim thanked our speaker, dinged the bell and offered a possibility of winning the raffle to Ed Shannon. Okay, next time, Ed! Five dollars will have to do And the meeting was adjourned!
Yours truly, Mary Marlin
President Rooks then asked if there were any visitors. Ed Shannon introduced his wife, Jayne. Duke Paulson was introduced by Angela Connelly who would like to encourage Duke to join. Jason Whalen introduced Dwight Williams, who is considering Rotary. Those at his table could be heard encouraging him to join. Maria Tobin, who works with our speaker, was acknowledged and appreciated. Ellen Mazoff and Carole Wier were given kudos for zooming with us today. Puffins Wendy McGowan, Angela Connelly, Andy Phillips, James Osundwa, Bob Martin, Carl Bronkema, Connie Coleman-Lacadie, Rachel Mazoff, Steve Saalfeld, Jamie Simons and Anthony Veliz were applauded for their efforts as Puffins. We'll know more of their talents next Friday at the Puffin Roast of President Rooks.
CLUB BUSINESS: Rob Erb mentioned a $2500 grant from the Military Appreciation Appreciation committee, which was approved by unanimous consent, as required for all grants of $2000 or more, according to our Bylaws.
HEALTHE AND WELLNESS (formerly Sunshine): Eric Warn was asked about members’ health and wellness. Unfortunately, Bill Price is now home but still not well and cannot see a specialist for nearly two to three months. Eric mentioned that he would also like good news about the health of our members as well as those who may need our kind thoughts.
LITTLE FREE PANTRIES: Bob Zawilski and John Lowney then gave information about the Little Free Pantries and the club’s financing of the eight pantries. To date $3,540 has been donated by members and a $10, 000 grant was received from the Greater Tacoma Community Foundation. $4400 has been spent so far to build the pantries and to provide food. The balance in that LFP “account” is now $9050. John was given kudos for building some pantries and when asked, John said that it may cost from $250 to $330 just for the materials to build a pantry and could take approximately 8 hours to complete. He thanked Mark Blanchard for setting the posts on which the LFPs are built. Shortages of lumber can also be a concern. All in all, pantries are getting done and staying stocked. Several clubs have helped with repairs and painting. Suggestions for helping include giving protein items, telling others about how they can help, holding food drives and also helping stock the pantries with hygiene supplies.
SUPPORT A FAMILY: Mary Horn and Rose Stevens have been assisting a family of 6 for a few years now. They admit this is not a Rotary club charity, but a personal one. Check Mary's email for specific donations for the children in the family and for monetary donations that will help beyond the holidays.
BREAK BAGS: Bill Potter encouraged members to help with Break Bags on Dec. 18th as well as with the bike deliveries, especially on base the same day.
NEW OFFICERS: Bill also mentioned as head of the nominating committee for next year that the slate of new officers is set. David Swindale, Tom George and Barlow Buescher will be incoming board members. John Lowney will be Treasurer. Greg Rediske will continue as Secretary and Mary Horn will be President Elect-Elect, and taking the office of President in July 2023. Welcome all!! Congratulations or condolences?
BIRTHDAYS AND ANNIVERSARIES: Greg Horn then reminded us of Birthdays and Anniversaries. Here are the birthdays: Scott Buser, Dec. 16/John Forkenbrock, Dec. 25!/Chuck Hellar, Dec. 18...best gift was going to Istanbul and Athens on a cruise/Bob Peterson, Dec. 4/Jim Sharp, Dec. 28/Paul Wulfestieg, Dec. 31/ and Anthony Veliz, Dec. 8! Partner Birthdays: Nicola Edgecomb on Dec. 24, Sue Hellar on Dec. 30 and Jayne Shannon on Dec 27th. Here are the years that our members have been in the club: Mary Horn-5, Paula Olson-5, Peter Marsh-6, Wynn Hoffman-13, Sally Smith-14, Andrew Neiditz-16, Terry Roarke-20, John Korsmo-31, Jerry Williams-32, David Covey-38, Bob Lordahl-47, and John Warner wins with 49 years in the club! Wedding Anniversaries include: Clint Johnson with Sharlynn for 2 years, Eric Quinn and Johanah for 4 years, James Osundwa and Shiru for 6 years, Carl Bronkema and Veronica for 18 years, David Swindale and Mary for 29 years and Vaughn Hoffman and his wife Connie have been married for 55 years! Congratulations to all!!
GENEROUS GIVING: Then came the opportunity for Generous Giving, i.e. Fines! David Swindale gave Bill Potter a colorful rugby shirt Bill had admired when he was President. Go New Zealand!!Chuck Hellar gave a thank you and shout out to John Lowney for fixing a Little Free Pantry at a moment's notice. Wendy McGowan donated $100 for the special news that her daughter is now the managing director of Goldman Sachs in Los Angeles! She's also been traveling to Chicago and Los Angeles. Barlow Buescher donated $100 as a thank you to John Lowney and a tribute to his new pup...Lumpy? (not yet named) and to Barb Spriggs for the auction item of Donatello's in San Francisco, which Barlow and his wife enjoyed greatly.
THE PROGRAM:
And now for our speaker of the day, Colonel Bill Adamson of the South Sound Military and Communities Partnership! John Caulfield, by Zoom, then introduced Colonel Adamson by mentioning that he is a highly decorated officer....combat officer...that recently completed his duties at the Pentagon. He was a lead on developing armaments that would protect troops and vehicles from IED attacks in Iraq and Afghanistan. His current job is to promote relationships on both sides of the fence between military facilities and communities. He actually taught high school, played on the Montreal Expos baseball team and theirTriple A baseball team in Colorado. With that, the applause resounded.
Colonel Adamson then told us of his job with the South Sound Military and Communities Partnership. Here are the facts. The intent of SSMCP is to improve and formalize collaboration between the military and the community leaders. There are legislative priorities and policy decisions. The value of having this Partnership is that there is a Great American Defense Community. Benefits are marketing opportunities, advocating shared legislative agenda, improving awareness for all, connecting networks of elected officials and military professionals. A focus on a Growth Coordination Plan to especially address health care, transportation and how the foundation will better build collaboration between the military and local communities is essential. Land use is a big factor in conversations and decision making. JBLM's economic impact is 34, 000 jobs statewide and 25,500 in just the South Sound. Ft. Lewis and McChord are rapidly growing, therefore, the need is to better coordinate Dept. of Defense and local government decisions. One particular concern is the I-5 corridor as it traverses the Nisqually River Delta. Environmental studies are essential to determine the impact of climate change and the variables that will affect salmon habitat and Nisqually tribal fishing. The facts are that the tribe used to fish 8 months a year. Now they can only fish 8 days a year because of weather issues and climate change. Sea levels are rising, storms are more devastating, and commerce is suffering. If I-5 is impacted severely, as it will be reported to be even more in the next several years, transportation will be greatly affected as dire as the recent train derailment north of Nisqually. Road changes need to be made to be back up systems when commerce will be affected. Money, collaboration, information, deliberation, habitat, history and potential crises all need to be brought to the table and discussed.
Just north of the landing zone at McChord, currently 21 active businesses are in a North Clear Zone which is supposed to have no people in it. Property needs to be cleared. Thirty two acquisition projects are now critical to success. Nine thousand people come and go at Joint Base Lewis McChord year to year. How do we make this all work??? A good question! And thank you ,Colonel Adamson, for working toward solutions with legislators and community leaders and sharing your successes and concerns. We hope to hear more in the future!
With that, President Jim thanked our speaker, dinged the bell and offered a possibility of winning the raffle to Ed Shannon. Okay, next time, Ed! Five dollars will have to do And the meeting was adjourned!
Yours truly, Mary Marlin
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Lakewood Rotary is Dancing
Sunday, December 5, 2021 By: Gregory J. Rediske
Lakewood Rotary is Dancing!THE LAKEWOOD KEY
‘Twas just past noon at the Club on December the third
Many creatures were moving: a lively Rotarian herd
Anticipation was building through the assembled throng
And not just waiting on President Rooks’ hammered “gong!”
The reason you see for the commotion and near frenzy
Was not visions of sugar plums dancing in a kid’s belfry
Lakewood Rotarians after what seemed like years in the waiting
Were about to enjoy what we generously call dancing!
Fox trot and swing would certainly be well-displayed
And more than that, the Twist, Macarena, and YMCA
Yet that experience remained several hours upcoming
Now ‘twas Dr. Rooks’ time to get the show humming!
And hum it did, starting with the courtly invocation of Clint Johnson, and followed by the flawless leading in the Pledge of Allegiance by Jim Bisceglia. Thanks aplenty went out from President Jim to Jan Gee (ticket sales and Sgt at Arms), James Guerrero (Paul Harris desk), Walt Richardson (photos), and the assorted setter-uppers (especially the techno whizzes, James Osundwa and Tom George).
Guests included two current or former Rotarians looking to see if we measure up to our legend: Linda McDermott (via Zoom) and Hank Kerns (Covington Rotary). Phil Eng introduced his guest, Dwight Williams. (We bulletin reporters never stop gathering the news, and after the meeting and after the dance, this reporter was able to learn during an in-depth interview with Phil Eng that he was very pleased that so many of our members came up to say “Hi” to his guest, Dwight. Kudos to all.)
Puffins in attendance included Carl Bronkema, Bob Martin, Wendy McGowan, James Osundwa, Steve Saalfeld, and Anthony Veliz. Head Puffin John Korsmo was in attendance as well, cracking the whip on his crew ahead of their big day on December 17. Look out, President Jim.
Above: Puffins Bob Martin and Anthony Veliz warming up for the 12/17 Roast
Photo by Walt Richardson
Announcements:
--Bob Martin and Anthony Veliz took the podium to announce the Puffin food project, a little different from previous years due to changes at EFN. Questions and sign up for the below three projects at: bw@northwestmilitary.com (Bill White)
1. December 11 at Thomas Middle School, 9 am, need drivers to deliver food baskets. These are holiday baskets from Caring for Kids, going to four school sites.
2. December 18 at Communities in Schools. Will need drivers to deliver to families that couldn’t pick up the first batch. Perhaps 20 locations.
3. Caring for Kids would like volunteers to put together the gift bags on December 10 and 11, and is seeking donations as well. Meet at Thomas Middle School. Email to Diane at carekids@comcast.net.
--Gayle Selden thanked all the drivers that helped deliver food from the Clover Park School District to schools, and needs more assistance on Monday, December 13. Contact Gayle.
--Steve Saalfeld: Festival of Trees has a $1 Million goal from auctioning off some incredible Christmas trees (one has bidding up over $100,000 already: but they’re not all that spendy!). Go to: https://festival.maxgiving.bid/about-us
--Bob Bruback asked for and achieved unanimous approval from the Club for a $2000 donation from the Community Concerns Committee for a diversity festival in 2022, sponsored by the Lakewood Multi-Cultural Coalition.
--Greg Rediske asked for and achieved unanimous approval for our Club’s annual donation to the Lakewood Community Foundation Fund of $2000. He also reported that the LCFF endowment is now at $1.3 Million dollars. They are currently giving away more in grants than they are receiving in annual donations: the beauty of endowments.
--Rose Stevens announced the latest projects from the World Community Service Committee. A global grant by RC Honolulu of $55,000 is being supported by $1000 from us, $1000 from the District, $800 from RI ($2800 total). This is for water and sanitation serving 2000 students and teachers in 9 schools in Nepal. (Seven don’t have any water, eight don’t have hand washing facilities, zero have menstrual hygiene facilities.) She also announced our contribution of $1800, which with matching grants comes to $5400 for an educational global grant in Botswana. Tacoma Sunrise is our partner in this, as well. This will provide a variety of technical systems to allow computer learning. (This committee headed by Rose continues to astound in their ability to access grants for maximum benefit. Thoughts of all that paperwork make my head hurt!)
--Anthony Veliz and Bob Martin paid $5 for receipt of their well-earned blue name badges.
Sunshine Report:
It is possible that this will be the last time this will be called the Sunshine Report. President Jim has declared a more appropriate name is the Health and Wellness Report. Eric Warn told us that Bill Price has some serious medical issues, possibly caused by a stroke. Currently in a recovery center, he should be returning home shortly. And Mo Sarram was back with us, in the building (and later at the dance!) after recent brain surgery. Wow.
New Member:
Angela Connelly is our newest Lakewood Rotarian and also our most recent Bernie Ootkin Non-Rotarian of the Year awardee. (Timing is such that she gets to keep the Bernie Ootkin Award!). Angela is on many, many community boards, but she is most impressed with Lakewood Rotary’s hands-on approach to service. “You guys are heroes about making things happen. It is my great honor to be a part of Lakewood Rotary” (as the collective audience of Rotarians blushed in unison…). Angela has 9 children and 4 grandchildren with husband Jack Connelly. Welcome aboard, Angela, and roll up those sleeves with all of us!
Above: Angela Connelly Inducted, with Walt Richardson photo
Fines and Generous Giving:
A busy, busy meeting (and overflowing, with a need to add chairs!), but President Jim managed to extract some money:
--John Lowney, Phil Eng and Terry Roarke showed up in Kona, HI, virtually simultaneously, and coordinated $20 fines each along with a couple of lovely gifts for the President. Terry mentioned that the “natives were friendly, but greedy” for his overheated credit card.
Above; President Jim enjoys a laugh with Phil Eng and Terry Roarke; Walt R.photo
--Dave Coleman was overjoyed to announce that their eighth grandchild was born at St. Joseph’s Hospital (where his previous seven grandchildren were born as well), on November 2, at a light-weight 5 lbs (named August Eugene). Coleman-math provided a $36 fine.
Program:
Anne Enquist introduced Ketul Patel and Lois Erickson from Virginia Mason Franciscan Health. Ketul was up first and thanked both Anne and Jim Rooks for past service on the hospital’s board. The first St. Joseph’s was founded in 1891 and the Tacoma location was founded in 1899. Virginia Mason was founded in 1920, and on January 1, 2021, Viriginia Mason and the Franciscan system merged. The Franciscan hospitals have greater identification statewide, but Viriginia Mason’s nationwide fame led to the name choice. They are the only hospital system to cover all of Puget Sound. They have treated over 6500 Covid patients, with a further 425,000 virtual visits, 14,500 vital urgent care visits, 350,000 Covid tests and 384,000 vaccinations. Lois spoke of our entry in the system, St. Clare. They recently received the Prism Award, one of only two hospitals in the state to receive this prestigious recognition. They are one of only four in Washington to receive the 2021 Critical Care Special Award. Other recent awards include the Orthopedic Gold Seal of Approval, while the Leapfrog Quality and Safety people raised St. Clare’s grade to “A”, after being at “B” for several years (and “D” many years back). Currently 10% of beds are devoted to Covid, down from the previous 30%, though there are still restrictions on the ability to do elective surgeries. She emphasized our need to follow the guidelines about minimizing the chance of getting Covid (Vaccination! Masks!). One question noted the sometimes-poor reputation for St. Clare, given all these awards, and Lois responded that they are diligently working on improving their marketing efforts. Another question concerned the lack of mental health and addiction resources here, and Mr. Patel noted a new 120 bed facility recently opened in Tacoma to address this (though they are experiencing staffing issues).
This writer, for one, was duly impressed by their presentation. Great work, all.
Drawing: the bulletin writer himself eventually managed to dig in his pocket for a ticket that turned out to be the winner, and promptly drew a white chip to the cheers of a grateful crowd. $5.00 to Mr. Rediske, instead of $329.
Tireless Reporting by the Bulletin Staff, again.
In researching “Dancing Rotarians” via Google, I discovered nary a reference to Lakewood Rotary. Colleyville, Walla Walla, Seguku, even Tacoma #8 came up. Not Lakewood. Just goes to show that you can’t rely on the internet, because Lakewood Rotarians do dance, have danced for more than 60 years, and hopefully will continue to dance. Many thanks to the Country Club for an incredible meal again, and especially to the Partners led by their Energizer Bunny President Stephanie Wilcox. Many won bottles of wine (but not everyone, as this writer can attest….), beautiful poinsettias were everywhere, and Troy Wilcox spun those tunes like Wolfman Jack. I personally learned to dance at a very young age. I am one of three brothers and having only one bathroom brought out the dance in me. Fortunately, Sharon has improved my technique a bit.
Above: Rotarians danced and danced! Jan Gee leads the charge.
I asked Fred Astaire once when he was about my age if he still danced, and he said 'Yes, but it hurts now.' That's exactly it. I can still dance, too, but it hurts now! (Dick Van Dyke)
I don't dance, even at weddings. I'm the grumpy one sitting down drinking wine. (Ricky Gervais)
Above: Sue Hellar gives that loving look to Chuck, who really can dance!
And finally, I leave you with something to ponder from Confucius:
Never give a sword to a man who can't dance.
And more than that, the Twist, Macarena, and YMCA
Yet that experience remained several hours upcoming
Now ‘twas Dr. Rooks’ time to get the show humming!
And hum it did, starting with the courtly invocation of Clint Johnson, and followed by the flawless leading in the Pledge of Allegiance by Jim Bisceglia. Thanks aplenty went out from President Jim to Jan Gee (ticket sales and Sgt at Arms), James Guerrero (Paul Harris desk), Walt Richardson (photos), and the assorted setter-uppers (especially the techno whizzes, James Osundwa and Tom George).
Guests included two current or former Rotarians looking to see if we measure up to our legend: Linda McDermott (via Zoom) and Hank Kerns (Covington Rotary). Phil Eng introduced his guest, Dwight Williams. (We bulletin reporters never stop gathering the news, and after the meeting and after the dance, this reporter was able to learn during an in-depth interview with Phil Eng that he was very pleased that so many of our members came up to say “Hi” to his guest, Dwight. Kudos to all.)
Puffins in attendance included Carl Bronkema, Bob Martin, Wendy McGowan, James Osundwa, Steve Saalfeld, and Anthony Veliz. Head Puffin John Korsmo was in attendance as well, cracking the whip on his crew ahead of their big day on December 17. Look out, President Jim.
Above: Puffins Bob Martin and Anthony Veliz warming up for the 12/17 Roast
Photo by Walt Richardson
Announcements:
--Bob Martin and Anthony Veliz took the podium to announce the Puffin food project, a little different from previous years due to changes at EFN. Questions and sign up for the below three projects at: bw@northwestmilitary.com (Bill White)
1. December 11 at Thomas Middle School, 9 am, need drivers to deliver food baskets. These are holiday baskets from Caring for Kids, going to four school sites.
2. December 18 at Communities in Schools. Will need drivers to deliver to families that couldn’t pick up the first batch. Perhaps 20 locations.
3. Caring for Kids would like volunteers to put together the gift bags on December 10 and 11, and is seeking donations as well. Meet at Thomas Middle School. Email to Diane at carekids@comcast.net.
--Gayle Selden thanked all the drivers that helped deliver food from the Clover Park School District to schools, and needs more assistance on Monday, December 13. Contact Gayle.
--Steve Saalfeld: Festival of Trees has a $1 Million goal from auctioning off some incredible Christmas trees (one has bidding up over $100,000 already: but they’re not all that spendy!). Go to: https://festival.maxgiving.bid/about-us
--Bob Bruback asked for and achieved unanimous approval from the Club for a $2000 donation from the Community Concerns Committee for a diversity festival in 2022, sponsored by the Lakewood Multi-Cultural Coalition.
--Greg Rediske asked for and achieved unanimous approval for our Club’s annual donation to the Lakewood Community Foundation Fund of $2000. He also reported that the LCFF endowment is now at $1.3 Million dollars. They are currently giving away more in grants than they are receiving in annual donations: the beauty of endowments.
--Rose Stevens announced the latest projects from the World Community Service Committee. A global grant by RC Honolulu of $55,000 is being supported by $1000 from us, $1000 from the District, $800 from RI ($2800 total). This is for water and sanitation serving 2000 students and teachers in 9 schools in Nepal. (Seven don’t have any water, eight don’t have hand washing facilities, zero have menstrual hygiene facilities.) She also announced our contribution of $1800, which with matching grants comes to $5400 for an educational global grant in Botswana. Tacoma Sunrise is our partner in this, as well. This will provide a variety of technical systems to allow computer learning. (This committee headed by Rose continues to astound in their ability to access grants for maximum benefit. Thoughts of all that paperwork make my head hurt!)
--Anthony Veliz and Bob Martin paid $5 for receipt of their well-earned blue name badges.
Sunshine Report:
It is possible that this will be the last time this will be called the Sunshine Report. President Jim has declared a more appropriate name is the Health and Wellness Report. Eric Warn told us that Bill Price has some serious medical issues, possibly caused by a stroke. Currently in a recovery center, he should be returning home shortly. And Mo Sarram was back with us, in the building (and later at the dance!) after recent brain surgery. Wow.
New Member:
Angela Connelly is our newest Lakewood Rotarian and also our most recent Bernie Ootkin Non-Rotarian of the Year awardee. (Timing is such that she gets to keep the Bernie Ootkin Award!). Angela is on many, many community boards, but she is most impressed with Lakewood Rotary’s hands-on approach to service. “You guys are heroes about making things happen. It is my great honor to be a part of Lakewood Rotary” (as the collective audience of Rotarians blushed in unison…). Angela has 9 children and 4 grandchildren with husband Jack Connelly. Welcome aboard, Angela, and roll up those sleeves with all of us!
Above: Angela Connelly Inducted, with Walt Richardson photo
Fines and Generous Giving:
A busy, busy meeting (and overflowing, with a need to add chairs!), but President Jim managed to extract some money:
--John Lowney, Phil Eng and Terry Roarke showed up in Kona, HI, virtually simultaneously, and coordinated $20 fines each along with a couple of lovely gifts for the President. Terry mentioned that the “natives were friendly, but greedy” for his overheated credit card.
Above; President Jim enjoys a laugh with Phil Eng and Terry Roarke; Walt R.photo
--Dave Coleman was overjoyed to announce that their eighth grandchild was born at St. Joseph’s Hospital (where his previous seven grandchildren were born as well), on November 2, at a light-weight 5 lbs (named August Eugene). Coleman-math provided a $36 fine.
Program:
Anne Enquist introduced Ketul Patel and Lois Erickson from Virginia Mason Franciscan Health. Ketul was up first and thanked both Anne and Jim Rooks for past service on the hospital’s board. The first St. Joseph’s was founded in 1891 and the Tacoma location was founded in 1899. Virginia Mason was founded in 1920, and on January 1, 2021, Viriginia Mason and the Franciscan system merged. The Franciscan hospitals have greater identification statewide, but Viriginia Mason’s nationwide fame led to the name choice. They are the only hospital system to cover all of Puget Sound. They have treated over 6500 Covid patients, with a further 425,000 virtual visits, 14,500 vital urgent care visits, 350,000 Covid tests and 384,000 vaccinations. Lois spoke of our entry in the system, St. Clare. They recently received the Prism Award, one of only two hospitals in the state to receive this prestigious recognition. They are one of only four in Washington to receive the 2021 Critical Care Special Award. Other recent awards include the Orthopedic Gold Seal of Approval, while the Leapfrog Quality and Safety people raised St. Clare’s grade to “A”, after being at “B” for several years (and “D” many years back). Currently 10% of beds are devoted to Covid, down from the previous 30%, though there are still restrictions on the ability to do elective surgeries. She emphasized our need to follow the guidelines about minimizing the chance of getting Covid (Vaccination! Masks!). One question noted the sometimes-poor reputation for St. Clare, given all these awards, and Lois responded that they are diligently working on improving their marketing efforts. Another question concerned the lack of mental health and addiction resources here, and Mr. Patel noted a new 120 bed facility recently opened in Tacoma to address this (though they are experiencing staffing issues).
This writer, for one, was duly impressed by their presentation. Great work, all.
Drawing: the bulletin writer himself eventually managed to dig in his pocket for a ticket that turned out to be the winner, and promptly drew a white chip to the cheers of a grateful crowd. $5.00 to Mr. Rediske, instead of $329.
Tireless Reporting by the Bulletin Staff, again.
In researching “Dancing Rotarians” via Google, I discovered nary a reference to Lakewood Rotary. Colleyville, Walla Walla, Seguku, even Tacoma #8 came up. Not Lakewood. Just goes to show that you can’t rely on the internet, because Lakewood Rotarians do dance, have danced for more than 60 years, and hopefully will continue to dance. Many thanks to the Country Club for an incredible meal again, and especially to the Partners led by their Energizer Bunny President Stephanie Wilcox. Many won bottles of wine (but not everyone, as this writer can attest….), beautiful poinsettias were everywhere, and Troy Wilcox spun those tunes like Wolfman Jack. I personally learned to dance at a very young age. I am one of three brothers and having only one bathroom brought out the dance in me. Fortunately, Sharon has improved my technique a bit.
Above: Rotarians danced and danced! Jan Gee leads the charge.
I asked Fred Astaire once when he was about my age if he still danced, and he said 'Yes, but it hurts now.' That's exactly it. I can still dance, too, but it hurts now! (Dick Van Dyke)
I don't dance, even at weddings. I'm the grumpy one sitting down drinking wine. (Ricky Gervais)
Above: Sue Hellar gives that loving look to Chuck, who really can dance!
And finally, I leave you with something to ponder from Confucius:
Never give a sword to a man who can't dance.
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The Foundation Report and Thanksgiving
Sunday, November 21, 2021 By: Donn Irwin
The Rotary Foundation (TRF) ExplainedAnd Giving Thanks by Donn Irwin
THE LAKEWOOD KEY for November 19, 2021
This rendition of the Lakewood Rotary Bulletin will have a “giving” theme – after all to give is divine, plus the speaker came to talk about The Rotary Foundation (giving) and this is the week before Thanksgiving.
At precisely the time I was picking up a cookie at the dessert\beverage table (late to the party due to construction/road work) President Jim rang the bell and commenced the meeting so I’m going to guess that it was 12:30.
Invocation: Bob Hammar
Pledge of Allegiance – Writer was still at the dessert table so didn’t get the name of who led us. Further extensive research on this writer’s part found out that it was most likely Mickey Mouse but could have been Scott Buser that did the job.
President Jim recognized Ron Irwin for simply being with us. It was good to see Mr. Irwin!
Want to know when Thanksgiving started?…. read on
Making the Meeting happen: Meeting set-up: Rob Erb, Tom George, James Osundwa, Rick Selden, Andrew Kruse Recording of fines: John Lowney
Bulletin Writer: Donn Irwin. Photographer: Phil Eng
$2.00 Desk and Sgt at Arms: Chuck Hellar Foundation Desk: Eric Warn
Monitoring This President’s Gaffes: Greg Rediske
The only visible visiting Rotarian we had was the speaker (introduced later).
Guests of Rotarians: Carl Bronkema introduced his wife, Veronica. He mentioned that she has filled out the application to become a member of our club.
Andrew Kruse introduced Eldie Gentry, a colleague at Youth For Christ.
President Rooks recognized the Puffins:
Jessica James, Carl Bronkema, Rachel Mazoff, Steve Saalfeld, Jamie Simons, James Osundwa, and Wendy McGowan, Connie Coleman- Lacadie, Anthony Veliz, Bob Martin, and Andy Phillips. We regret that Puffin Dave Hall has decided to resign as his caddying job and other duties did not allow him to attend often enough.
Why did Thanksgiving even start?…. see below.
Sunshine Report: Eric Warn recognized Mo Sarram. Mo attended our meeting after having brain surgery last week. Mo got up and announced that he will be 90 years old in a few days and offered a check for $90.00 to pay for the privilege. So glad you made back Mo! Mr. Warn then called on Phil Eng and Steve Mazoff for a special announcement regarding a former member that had passed away – Cal Kushen. Cal was a long time Rotarian. He was a member of the Van Nuys California club and then moved to Washington. He and his wife, Kai, lived in Oakbrook and he joined Lakewood Rotary. He sponsored Steve Mazoff into the club. Kai has long been a champion of the Tacoma Area Literacy Council, which the Rotary Community Concerns Committee has approved for grants many times over the years.
Almost new member Angela Connelly was going to be inducted toady but due to unforeseen circumstances she couldn’t make the meeting. We look forward to seeing her soon.
Announcements: Gayle Selden (aka Ms. Zoom Advocate) asked that, if we have an announcement, for the benefit of the Zoomers, we use the mic AND face one of two cameras. She then proceeded to make an announcement using the mic but…. well – never mind. Gayle said that she had 10 drivers for the break bag drive and that she felt it was covered but that if anyone was still inclined to help then the event would be happening Monday morning at the time and place previously announced.
Who first proclaimed Thanksgiving Day a national holiday?……answer below.
PP and PDG Greg Horn came forward to use the mic AND face the camera (Greg would make a great politician wouldn’t he) in order to give President Jim a couple of photos of him and Mary and then Rose Stevens at the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. Seems that the three of them (Greg, Mary and Rose) were visiting Rose’s exotic home town of Schenevus in upstate NY so they went to nearsby Cooperstown to check it out. PDG Horn also gave President Jim a pair of socks that Greg and Mary picked up while attending a Rotary Conference in Tucson.
President Jim let us know that there will NOT be Rotary meetings The Friday after Thanksgiving, nor the Fridays before Christmas and New Year’s. NOTE: ALL of the meeting s in January and the first one in February will be via Zoom. There will be NO in-person meetings at the club during that time, due to some renovations taking place there.
Leanna Christian ceded the reading of a letter from the Art Fair to President Jim, thanking Lakewood Rotary for our continued support.
Bike build: Steve Mazoff reported about the Lakewood Rotarians that participated recently in the Bike Build, which was held last Saturday, the 13th of November. Those Rotarians who took part at the LeMay facility were: Gary Barton, Bob Martin, Lowell Johnson, Rachel Mazoff, Bill Potter, Rick Selden and Steve Mazoff.
Above: A photo of Rotarians present
Also, there was information left on the tables by the Puffins regarding several upcoming projects that I don’t think the Zoomers received. Here is a recap:
Saturday Dec 11th: Communities in Schools is looking for volunteers to pick up students’ holiday baskets and bring them to four school sites. Looking for 10-20 cars for this task.
Saturday Dec18th Communities in Schools will need help delivering break bags to students’ homes who are unable to pick them up from the schools.
For more info on these two projects or to sign up to help please contact Bill White at bw@northwestmilitary.com
Diane Formoso from Caring for Kids is looking for volunteers to help with the set up for holiday baskets Friday afternoon and Saturday morning Dec. 10-11 at Thomas Middle School. If you are interested in this or toy/cash donations email Diane at carekids@comcast.net
Generous Giving (aka Fines): Bud Montgomery confessed that he had an accident while doing yard work Tuesday and was banged up but that didn’t stop him from giving $100.00 to TRF (Paul Harris) for his 53rd anniversary. President Jim tossed in $80.00. Eric Quinn added $21.00 (Madsen Quinn was born on 10/21/21). Bob Peterson came forward to the podium (used the mic and the camera) to announce that he is soon to be 93 and that he really enjoys being part of the club and engaging with all of us. It cost him $93.00 but he did it anyway. Leanna Christian announced that she has passed both CMA exams and is now an official Certified Management Accountant. Jim Sharp went to Sonoma Valley and sampled some wine. He added $20.00 to the President’s coffer.
Who made Thanksgiving Day a permanent holiday ?…..interesting factoid below.
Rose Stevens introduced our speaker – Howard Svigals. District 5020 Rotary Foundation Chair. Howard is a member of the Gig Harbor Midday Club.
Mr. Svigals started off his presentation with some facts: This year’s theme is “Changing Lives”. Rotary is divided into 34 Zones world wide and there are 535 Districts. The relationship between Rotary International (RI) and The Rotary Foundation is a partnership. The Foundation has Trustees while RI has a Board.
There is an organization called Charity Navigator that rates charities by their financial health and their Accountability and Transparency. Charity Navigator rates TRF with 4 stars which is their highest rating. TRF has received a 4-star rating for 13 years in a row. An amazing 92% of the money Rotarians give goes directly to projects.
Howard covered a lot of ground in a short period of time which required some fast talking so this writer will try to summarize. The Polio Plus Society is made up of Rotarians that commit to giving $100.00 every year until we end polio. There are three “buckets” that our donations can go into: End Polio, Annual Fund and Endowment. End Polio: Even though polio is almost gone there is still work to do. The money goal is 50 million dollars a year. The system that has been developed for tracking polio is being used to track Covid. Currently (in the world) in 2021 there has been one case in Pakistan and up until last week there were 3 cases in Afghanistan. Unfortunately, there were 2 new cases reported last week. All of the cases are centered around this one area. NOTE: The continent of Africa is officially polio free.
Endowment Fund: The goal is to have 2 billion dollars in the fund by 2025. The corpus of the fund isn’t spent.
Annual Fund: The goal here is EREY - “Every Rotarian Every Year”, with every Rotarian in each club donating $25.00 every year.
In District 5020 we have given out $194,000 in grants this year. Global grants in which LR was involved amount to $117,000 (Lakewood Rotary has gotten back more than we put in). What makes our giving special is that Rotarians get to choose where the money goes.
The right to draw for a red chip was won by Troy Wilcox, who drew white and got $5.00
A brief history of Thanksgiving (according to Britannica):
Colonists in New England and Canada regularly observed “thanksgivings,” days of prayer for such blessings as safe journeys, military victories, or abundant harvests. Americans model their holiday on a 1621 harvest feast shared between English colonists and the Wampanoag. Canadians trace their earliest thanksgiving to 1578, when a Martin Frobisher-led expedition celebrated safe passage.
The American holiday is particularly rich in legend and symbolism, and the traditional fare of the Thanksgiving meal typically includes turkey, bread stuffing, potatoes, cranberries, and pumpkin pie.
Plymouth’s Thanksgiving began with a few colonists going out “fowling,” possibly for turkeys but more probably for the easier prey of geese and ducks, since they “in one day killed as much as…served the company almost a week.” Next, 90 or so Wampanoag made a surprise appearance at the settlement’s gate, doubtlessly unnerving the 50 or so colonists. Nevertheless, over the next few days the two groups socialized without incident. The Wampanoag contributed venison to the feast, which included the fowl and probably fish, eels, shellfish, stews, vegetables, and beer. Since Plymouth had few buildings and manufactured goods, most people ate outside while sitting on the ground or on barrels with plates on their laps. The men fired guns, ran races, and drank liquor, struggling to speak in broken English and Wampanoag. This was a rather disorderly affair, but it sealed a treaty between the two groups that lasted until King Philip’s War (1675–76), in which hundreds of colonists and thousands of Native Americans lost their lives.
The New England colonists were accustomed to regularly celebrating “Thanksgivings,” days of prayer thanking God for blessings such as military victory or the end of a drought. The U.S. Continental Congress proclaimed a national Thanksgiving upon the enactment of the Constitution, for example. Yet, after 1798, the new U.S. Congress left Thanksgiving declarations to the states; some objected to the national government’s involvement in a religious observance, Southerners were slow to adopt a New England custom, and others took offense over the day’s being used to hold partisan speeches and parades. A national Thanksgiving Day seemed more like a lightning rod for controversy than a unifying force.
Thanksgiving Day did not become an official holiday until Northerners dominated the federal government. While sectional tensions prevailed in the mid-19th century, the editor of the popular magazine Godey’s Lady’s Book, Sarah Josepha Hale, campaigned for a national Thanksgiving Day to promote unity. She finally won the support of President Abraham Lincoln. On October 3, 1863, during the Civil War, Lincoln proclaimed a National Day of Thanksgiving to be celebrated on Thursday, November 26. The holiday was annually proclaimed by every president thereafter, and the date chosen, with few exceptions, was the last Thursday in November. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, however, attempted to extend the Christmas shopping season, which generally begins with the Thanksgiving holiday, and to boost the economy by moving the date back a week, to the third week in November. But not all states complied, and, after a joint resolution of Congress in 1941, Roosevelt issued a proclamation in 1942 designating the fourth Thursday in November (which is not always the last Thursday) as Thanksgiving Day.
Happy Thanksgiving to all.
Pledge of Allegiance – Writer was still at the dessert table so didn’t get the name of who led us. Further extensive research on this writer’s part found out that it was most likely Mickey Mouse but could have been Scott Buser that did the job.
President Jim recognized Ron Irwin for simply being with us. It was good to see Mr. Irwin!
Want to know when Thanksgiving started?…. read on
Making the Meeting happen: Meeting set-up: Rob Erb, Tom George, James Osundwa, Rick Selden, Andrew Kruse Recording of fines: John Lowney
Bulletin Writer: Donn Irwin. Photographer: Phil Eng
$2.00 Desk and Sgt at Arms: Chuck Hellar Foundation Desk: Eric Warn
Monitoring This President’s Gaffes: Greg Rediske
The only visible visiting Rotarian we had was the speaker (introduced later).
Guests of Rotarians: Carl Bronkema introduced his wife, Veronica. He mentioned that she has filled out the application to become a member of our club.
Andrew Kruse introduced Eldie Gentry, a colleague at Youth For Christ.
President Rooks recognized the Puffins:
Jessica James, Carl Bronkema, Rachel Mazoff, Steve Saalfeld, Jamie Simons, James Osundwa, and Wendy McGowan, Connie Coleman- Lacadie, Anthony Veliz, Bob Martin, and Andy Phillips. We regret that Puffin Dave Hall has decided to resign as his caddying job and other duties did not allow him to attend often enough.
Why did Thanksgiving even start?…. see below.
Sunshine Report: Eric Warn recognized Mo Sarram. Mo attended our meeting after having brain surgery last week. Mo got up and announced that he will be 90 years old in a few days and offered a check for $90.00 to pay for the privilege. So glad you made back Mo! Mr. Warn then called on Phil Eng and Steve Mazoff for a special announcement regarding a former member that had passed away – Cal Kushen. Cal was a long time Rotarian. He was a member of the Van Nuys California club and then moved to Washington. He and his wife, Kai, lived in Oakbrook and he joined Lakewood Rotary. He sponsored Steve Mazoff into the club. Kai has long been a champion of the Tacoma Area Literacy Council, which the Rotary Community Concerns Committee has approved for grants many times over the years.
Almost new member Angela Connelly was going to be inducted toady but due to unforeseen circumstances she couldn’t make the meeting. We look forward to seeing her soon.
Announcements: Gayle Selden (aka Ms. Zoom Advocate) asked that, if we have an announcement, for the benefit of the Zoomers, we use the mic AND face one of two cameras. She then proceeded to make an announcement using the mic but…. well – never mind. Gayle said that she had 10 drivers for the break bag drive and that she felt it was covered but that if anyone was still inclined to help then the event would be happening Monday morning at the time and place previously announced.
Who first proclaimed Thanksgiving Day a national holiday?……answer below.
PP and PDG Greg Horn came forward to use the mic AND face the camera (Greg would make a great politician wouldn’t he) in order to give President Jim a couple of photos of him and Mary and then Rose Stevens at the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. Seems that the three of them (Greg, Mary and Rose) were visiting Rose’s exotic home town of Schenevus in upstate NY so they went to nearsby Cooperstown to check it out. PDG Horn also gave President Jim a pair of socks that Greg and Mary picked up while attending a Rotary Conference in Tucson.
President Jim let us know that there will NOT be Rotary meetings The Friday after Thanksgiving, nor the Fridays before Christmas and New Year’s. NOTE: ALL of the meeting s in January and the first one in February will be via Zoom. There will be NO in-person meetings at the club during that time, due to some renovations taking place there.
Leanna Christian ceded the reading of a letter from the Art Fair to President Jim, thanking Lakewood Rotary for our continued support.
Bike build: Steve Mazoff reported about the Lakewood Rotarians that participated recently in the Bike Build, which was held last Saturday, the 13th of November. Those Rotarians who took part at the LeMay facility were: Gary Barton, Bob Martin, Lowell Johnson, Rachel Mazoff, Bill Potter, Rick Selden and Steve Mazoff.
Above: A photo of Rotarians present
Also, there was information left on the tables by the Puffins regarding several upcoming projects that I don’t think the Zoomers received. Here is a recap:
Saturday Dec 11th: Communities in Schools is looking for volunteers to pick up students’ holiday baskets and bring them to four school sites. Looking for 10-20 cars for this task.
Saturday Dec18th Communities in Schools will need help delivering break bags to students’ homes who are unable to pick them up from the schools.
For more info on these two projects or to sign up to help please contact Bill White at bw@northwestmilitary.com
Diane Formoso from Caring for Kids is looking for volunteers to help with the set up for holiday baskets Friday afternoon and Saturday morning Dec. 10-11 at Thomas Middle School. If you are interested in this or toy/cash donations email Diane at carekids@comcast.net
Generous Giving (aka Fines): Bud Montgomery confessed that he had an accident while doing yard work Tuesday and was banged up but that didn’t stop him from giving $100.00 to TRF (Paul Harris) for his 53rd anniversary. President Jim tossed in $80.00. Eric Quinn added $21.00 (Madsen Quinn was born on 10/21/21). Bob Peterson came forward to the podium (used the mic and the camera) to announce that he is soon to be 93 and that he really enjoys being part of the club and engaging with all of us. It cost him $93.00 but he did it anyway. Leanna Christian announced that she has passed both CMA exams and is now an official Certified Management Accountant. Jim Sharp went to Sonoma Valley and sampled some wine. He added $20.00 to the President’s coffer.
Who made Thanksgiving Day a permanent holiday ?…..interesting factoid below.
Rose Stevens introduced our speaker – Howard Svigals. District 5020 Rotary Foundation Chair. Howard is a member of the Gig Harbor Midday Club.
Mr. Svigals started off his presentation with some facts: This year’s theme is “Changing Lives”. Rotary is divided into 34 Zones world wide and there are 535 Districts. The relationship between Rotary International (RI) and The Rotary Foundation is a partnership. The Foundation has Trustees while RI has a Board.
There is an organization called Charity Navigator that rates charities by their financial health and their Accountability and Transparency. Charity Navigator rates TRF with 4 stars which is their highest rating. TRF has received a 4-star rating for 13 years in a row. An amazing 92% of the money Rotarians give goes directly to projects.
Howard covered a lot of ground in a short period of time which required some fast talking so this writer will try to summarize. The Polio Plus Society is made up of Rotarians that commit to giving $100.00 every year until we end polio. There are three “buckets” that our donations can go into: End Polio, Annual Fund and Endowment. End Polio: Even though polio is almost gone there is still work to do. The money goal is 50 million dollars a year. The system that has been developed for tracking polio is being used to track Covid. Currently (in the world) in 2021 there has been one case in Pakistan and up until last week there were 3 cases in Afghanistan. Unfortunately, there were 2 new cases reported last week. All of the cases are centered around this one area. NOTE: The continent of Africa is officially polio free.
Endowment Fund: The goal is to have 2 billion dollars in the fund by 2025. The corpus of the fund isn’t spent.
Annual Fund: The goal here is EREY - “Every Rotarian Every Year”, with every Rotarian in each club donating $25.00 every year.
In District 5020 we have given out $194,000 in grants this year. Global grants in which LR was involved amount to $117,000 (Lakewood Rotary has gotten back more than we put in). What makes our giving special is that Rotarians get to choose where the money goes.
The right to draw for a red chip was won by Troy Wilcox, who drew white and got $5.00
A brief history of Thanksgiving (according to Britannica):
Colonists in New England and Canada regularly observed “thanksgivings,” days of prayer for such blessings as safe journeys, military victories, or abundant harvests. Americans model their holiday on a 1621 harvest feast shared between English colonists and the Wampanoag. Canadians trace their earliest thanksgiving to 1578, when a Martin Frobisher-led expedition celebrated safe passage.
The American holiday is particularly rich in legend and symbolism, and the traditional fare of the Thanksgiving meal typically includes turkey, bread stuffing, potatoes, cranberries, and pumpkin pie.
Plymouth’s Thanksgiving began with a few colonists going out “fowling,” possibly for turkeys but more probably for the easier prey of geese and ducks, since they “in one day killed as much as…served the company almost a week.” Next, 90 or so Wampanoag made a surprise appearance at the settlement’s gate, doubtlessly unnerving the 50 or so colonists. Nevertheless, over the next few days the two groups socialized without incident. The Wampanoag contributed venison to the feast, which included the fowl and probably fish, eels, shellfish, stews, vegetables, and beer. Since Plymouth had few buildings and manufactured goods, most people ate outside while sitting on the ground or on barrels with plates on their laps. The men fired guns, ran races, and drank liquor, struggling to speak in broken English and Wampanoag. This was a rather disorderly affair, but it sealed a treaty between the two groups that lasted until King Philip’s War (1675–76), in which hundreds of colonists and thousands of Native Americans lost their lives.
The New England colonists were accustomed to regularly celebrating “Thanksgivings,” days of prayer thanking God for blessings such as military victory or the end of a drought. The U.S. Continental Congress proclaimed a national Thanksgiving upon the enactment of the Constitution, for example. Yet, after 1798, the new U.S. Congress left Thanksgiving declarations to the states; some objected to the national government’s involvement in a religious observance, Southerners were slow to adopt a New England custom, and others took offense over the day’s being used to hold partisan speeches and parades. A national Thanksgiving Day seemed more like a lightning rod for controversy than a unifying force.
Thanksgiving Day did not become an official holiday until Northerners dominated the federal government. While sectional tensions prevailed in the mid-19th century, the editor of the popular magazine Godey’s Lady’s Book, Sarah Josepha Hale, campaigned for a national Thanksgiving Day to promote unity. She finally won the support of President Abraham Lincoln. On October 3, 1863, during the Civil War, Lincoln proclaimed a National Day of Thanksgiving to be celebrated on Thursday, November 26. The holiday was annually proclaimed by every president thereafter, and the date chosen, with few exceptions, was the last Thursday in November. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, however, attempted to extend the Christmas shopping season, which generally begins with the Thanksgiving holiday, and to boost the economy by moving the date back a week, to the third week in November. But not all states complied, and, after a joint resolution of Congress in 1941, Roosevelt issued a proclamation in 1942 designating the fourth Thursday in November (which is not always the last Thursday) as Thanksgiving Day.
Happy Thanksgiving to all.
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Just the Facts Ma'am
Sunday, November 14, 2021 By: Gayle Selden
Just the Facts, Ma’amTHE LAKEWOOD KEY for November 12, 2021 meeting
President Jim Rooks called the meeting to order on November 12th. Jan Gee shared a celebration of gratitude for our Veterans while Gayle Selden led the pledge with an assist from Walt Richardson.
President Rooks then thanked the Setup Crew with the addition of Bob Martin, Walt for taking the photos and Gayle for writing the bulletin. Gary Barton was running the two-dollar desk, acting as Sergeant at Arms and handling the roving mic, along with Bob Martin.
There were no visiting Rotarians present but the “Old” Ed Shannon (that is three days older than our President) brought his daughter Kerry Pechon, from Kentucky. Kerry is a UW grad and a 6th Floor Lander crew member where she was good friends with Jeff Selden, this bulletin writer’s older brother.
Eric Warn shared the Sunshine Report. Mo Sarram is in the ICU at Swedish recovering from removal of debris in his brain that was affecting his balance. Duncan and Joan Cook are having a difficult time getting around and could use help with getting groceries and rides to doctor’s appointments. Please contact them if you can help. Soon to be a member, Angela Connelly could not make it to her induction today, as her son had ACL surgery after a High School sports injury. Dr. Rooks then told everyone if you have any wrestling children or grandchildren they should always be wearing a helmet, even when just practicing.
Volunteer Opportunity: On November 22nd (that’s a Monday) Lakewood Rotary will be delivering bags of food from the Clover Park School District Warehouse to schools. Volunteers need to have a vehicle that can hold 10 to 100 shopping bags (that means cars to SUVs to minivans). Work starts at 9 am and there is no lifting of bags unless you really want to do that. There are loaders at the warehouse and unloaders at the schools (you are welcome to load if you’d like). Work ends whenever you want it to…so you can do one run or more. Please let Gayle Selden know if you can participate at gayle@edseldenc1.com.
Past President Bill Potter took the mic and opened the floor for nominations for Treasurer, Secretary, President Elect Elect and Board Members. Please contact Bill Potter or Mark Edgecomb if you have a nomination. If you’d like to be in one of the offices you can self-nominate.
Above: Bill Potter took the microphone. Photo by Walt Richardson
Bill talked about the Build a Bike program and members participated in a build on Saturday. Lakewood Rotary will have 40 bikes to get out to the community, so volunteer for that delivery day if you missed the build.
Bob Bruback, representing the Community Concerns Committee, requested the club approve a $2000 donation for the Waste Connection Build a Bike program. It was moved, seconded and passed.
Past President Rose Stevens took the podium over with a flourish, as only a PP can. Rose gave us an update on the Little Free Pantries. During the last two days of the election Lakewood Rotary and the Lions manned a tent collecting food for the Little Free Pantry. They ended up with 2 vans worth. At every Rotary meeting there will be a collection of protein (peanut butter, tuna, canned chicken) and hygiene products to help fill the Little Free Pantries. Remember to try and get pop tops for the canned goods. This will be an ongoing project. So, when you grocery shop just pick up one extra item for a pantry and drop off at the Friday meeting. (On Dr. Rooks’ orders, skip the spam.) The partners will also be collecting canned food at the Holiday Dinner Dance.
What Dinner Dance-you ask? On December 3rd the Partners will be hosting a Dinner Dance at the Country Club. Past President and Current Treasurer John Lowney has set up a payment portal on the Lakewood Rotary website. More details forthcoming as well as a fun fun time.
Above: John Lowney has a link for everything! Walt Richardson photo
President Rooks than donned his Sheriff’s hat for fines and generous giving. First stop was Past President Joe Quinn, who went to Reno not to gamble. Also, apparently not to shoot a man either. As he flashed the medal around his neck he let us know he broke 6 national Masters records at the American Masters weightlifting competition, but an even older guy lifting after him broke his records two minutes later. Still not too shabby! Congrats Joe! $50 to the pot.
Colonel Ed Shannon modeled his Army uniform that he first donned at Fort Rucker, Alabama in 1965. He wanted to disprove Rob Erb’s theory that Gary Fulton is the only Lakewood Rotarian that can still fit into their uniform. He modeled it well but maybe had to be cut out of it at home by Jayne. He said something about paying a dollar per year with a $100 Foundation donation. And then he clarified and said, “But I am not 100!!!” He also contributed $20 to Dr. Rooks’ budget for daughter Kerry’s visit. He also convinced Rob Erb to pay $5 for his misleading statement last week.
Bob Martin shared a story about his Dad, thanking him for his service. His Dad worked as a photographer that took pictures so invasion forces would be ready to fight on the ground in Japan. He was one of the first to see the aftermath of Hiroshima’s bombing.
Mike Murtha was in the building and offered $150(!!!!) for a trip to Hawaii and Cancun.
THE PROGRAM
Don Anderson came up to introduce our speaker. He made sure to note that his Navy hat still fits!
Colonel Roerhman at the podium. Photo by Walt Richardson.
Col Roerhman commands the Lancer Brigade, also known as the 2-2 Stryker Brigade team, our Lakewood-JBLM Community Connector. Col Roerhman is a West Point Grad who got a Masters and Doctorate at Kings College. Don listed many accomplishments and honors.
Col Roerhman was happy to share thanks to our Veterans. He asked those that served to raise their hands. It was impressive how many were up!
He explained the origins of the 2-2 team including the 5-2 and reflagging of the 2-2 from armored to Stryker. The brigade has 4500 soldiers and 300 combat vehicles. It is a medium-sized brigade created to quickly and rapidly deploy via Sea, Air or Rail for mountainous terrain or urban environment combat. We learned the unit can deploy within 96 hours as long as all support services (ship/rail/air) are ready too. It would take some sleepless nights to get it done that fast.
The location at JBLM makes the Brigade mostly ready for battle in the Indo-Pacific Region. Soon they will be training with the Japanese Defense Force and the Royal Thai Army. Their hope is to test the Stryker in jungle environments.
Col Roerhman shared stories of some of his soldiers. He likened some of his battalion’s goals and plans to Lakewood Rotary’s goals. Although they pray for peace, they are prepared for action. The Brigade is also happy to continue to work with the City of Lakewood, doing their part to serve the community. The Lancer Brigade’s motto is “Seize the High Ground.” Lucky to have them in our community.
Here is a Sub Times article from their visit:
Lancer Brigade Commander Provides Veterans Day Remarks to Lakewood Rotary – The Suburban Times (thesubtimes.com)
The meeting was adjourned; Terry Roarke pulled a white chip. Just the Facts, Ma’am. (Gayle is too young to know this but that was Sergeant Joe Friday’s motto on Dragnet…must see TV. Ed.)
I am sorry Greg Rediske was not taking notes as this bulletin did not roll out as easily as last week’s.
All the same thanks for reading….. Ole and Donnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn.
Gayle
Eric Warn shared the Sunshine Report. Mo Sarram is in the ICU at Swedish recovering from removal of debris in his brain that was affecting his balance. Duncan and Joan Cook are having a difficult time getting around and could use help with getting groceries and rides to doctor’s appointments. Please contact them if you can help. Soon to be a member, Angela Connelly could not make it to her induction today, as her son had ACL surgery after a High School sports injury. Dr. Rooks then told everyone if you have any wrestling children or grandchildren they should always be wearing a helmet, even when just practicing.
Volunteer Opportunity: On November 22nd (that’s a Monday) Lakewood Rotary will be delivering bags of food from the Clover Park School District Warehouse to schools. Volunteers need to have a vehicle that can hold 10 to 100 shopping bags (that means cars to SUVs to minivans). Work starts at 9 am and there is no lifting of bags unless you really want to do that. There are loaders at the warehouse and unloaders at the schools (you are welcome to load if you’d like). Work ends whenever you want it to…so you can do one run or more. Please let Gayle Selden know if you can participate at gayle@edseldenc1.com.
Past President Bill Potter took the mic and opened the floor for nominations for Treasurer, Secretary, President Elect Elect and Board Members. Please contact Bill Potter or Mark Edgecomb if you have a nomination. If you’d like to be in one of the offices you can self-nominate.
Above: Bill Potter took the microphone. Photo by Walt Richardson
Bill talked about the Build a Bike program and members participated in a build on Saturday. Lakewood Rotary will have 40 bikes to get out to the community, so volunteer for that delivery day if you missed the build.
Bob Bruback, representing the Community Concerns Committee, requested the club approve a $2000 donation for the Waste Connection Build a Bike program. It was moved, seconded and passed.
Past President Rose Stevens took the podium over with a flourish, as only a PP can. Rose gave us an update on the Little Free Pantries. During the last two days of the election Lakewood Rotary and the Lions manned a tent collecting food for the Little Free Pantry. They ended up with 2 vans worth. At every Rotary meeting there will be a collection of protein (peanut butter, tuna, canned chicken) and hygiene products to help fill the Little Free Pantries. Remember to try and get pop tops for the canned goods. This will be an ongoing project. So, when you grocery shop just pick up one extra item for a pantry and drop off at the Friday meeting. (On Dr. Rooks’ orders, skip the spam.) The partners will also be collecting canned food at the Holiday Dinner Dance.
What Dinner Dance-you ask? On December 3rd the Partners will be hosting a Dinner Dance at the Country Club. Past President and Current Treasurer John Lowney has set up a payment portal on the Lakewood Rotary website. More details forthcoming as well as a fun fun time.
Above: John Lowney has a link for everything! Walt Richardson photo
President Rooks than donned his Sheriff’s hat for fines and generous giving. First stop was Past President Joe Quinn, who went to Reno not to gamble. Also, apparently not to shoot a man either. As he flashed the medal around his neck he let us know he broke 6 national Masters records at the American Masters weightlifting competition, but an even older guy lifting after him broke his records two minutes later. Still not too shabby! Congrats Joe! $50 to the pot.
Colonel Ed Shannon modeled his Army uniform that he first donned at Fort Rucker, Alabama in 1965. He wanted to disprove Rob Erb’s theory that Gary Fulton is the only Lakewood Rotarian that can still fit into their uniform. He modeled it well but maybe had to be cut out of it at home by Jayne. He said something about paying a dollar per year with a $100 Foundation donation. And then he clarified and said, “But I am not 100!!!” He also contributed $20 to Dr. Rooks’ budget for daughter Kerry’s visit. He also convinced Rob Erb to pay $5 for his misleading statement last week.
Bob Martin shared a story about his Dad, thanking him for his service. His Dad worked as a photographer that took pictures so invasion forces would be ready to fight on the ground in Japan. He was one of the first to see the aftermath of Hiroshima’s bombing.
Mike Murtha was in the building and offered $150(!!!!) for a trip to Hawaii and Cancun.
THE PROGRAM
Don Anderson came up to introduce our speaker. He made sure to note that his Navy hat still fits!
Colonel Roerhman at the podium. Photo by Walt Richardson.
Col Roerhman commands the Lancer Brigade, also known as the 2-2 Stryker Brigade team, our Lakewood-JBLM Community Connector. Col Roerhman is a West Point Grad who got a Masters and Doctorate at Kings College. Don listed many accomplishments and honors.
Col Roerhman was happy to share thanks to our Veterans. He asked those that served to raise their hands. It was impressive how many were up!
He explained the origins of the 2-2 team including the 5-2 and reflagging of the 2-2 from armored to Stryker. The brigade has 4500 soldiers and 300 combat vehicles. It is a medium-sized brigade created to quickly and rapidly deploy via Sea, Air or Rail for mountainous terrain or urban environment combat. We learned the unit can deploy within 96 hours as long as all support services (ship/rail/air) are ready too. It would take some sleepless nights to get it done that fast.
The location at JBLM makes the Brigade mostly ready for battle in the Indo-Pacific Region. Soon they will be training with the Japanese Defense Force and the Royal Thai Army. Their hope is to test the Stryker in jungle environments.
Col Roerhman shared stories of some of his soldiers. He likened some of his battalion’s goals and plans to Lakewood Rotary’s goals. Although they pray for peace, they are prepared for action. The Brigade is also happy to continue to work with the City of Lakewood, doing their part to serve the community. The Lancer Brigade’s motto is “Seize the High Ground.” Lucky to have them in our community.
Here is a Sub Times article from their visit:
Lancer Brigade Commander Provides Veterans Day Remarks to Lakewood Rotary – The Suburban Times (thesubtimes.com)
The meeting was adjourned; Terry Roarke pulled a white chip. Just the Facts, Ma’am. (Gayle is too young to know this but that was Sergeant Joe Friday’s motto on Dragnet…must see TV. Ed.)
I am sorry Greg Rediske was not taking notes as this bulletin did not roll out as easily as last week’s.
All the same thanks for reading….. Ole and Donnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn.
Gayle
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A Veterans Day to Remember
Sunday, November 7, 2021 By: Gayle Selden
Veterans Day Program to RememberTHE LAKEWOOD KEY for November 5, 2021
Greg Rediske with
Gayle Selden
What if you had a Lakewood Rotary meeting and there wasn’t anyone to write the bulletin? Would it still exist? Would it count? Such was the dilemma posed on Friday, November 5 in the year 2021. A bulletin writer was announced, but he (or was it she? I’ll never tell…..) was not in the house. There was immediately a collective gasp of shock and surprise from all those assembled. Well, at least Gayle Selden and Greg Rediske raised their eyebrows. Might have been a gasp between them, who can tell.
So about half way through, Gayle realized that both she and GR were taking notes. What follows is a rough approximation of the events of that day, November 5th, as noted above. With two of us, it allowed room for observation and musing. Additionally, it spreads blame two ways for mistakes. (Or maybe three or four ways…Ed.)
The Rotary Meeting on October 10th started normally enough for Gayle Selden. She did choose the wrong parking space at the Tacoma Country and Golf Club as she realized upon stepping into the muddy puddle located outside her driver door. Opening the doors to the Country Club, she was greeted by Jim Weinand holding down the Paul Harris Desk. She picked out her badge and put a check mark next to her name on the attendance sheet. Handling the raffle table was Chuck Hellar who appeared to be coaching Greg Horn on the workings of the Sergeant at Arms Desk. Raffle tickets in hand, Gayle greeted Teresa collecting funds for lunch. Greeting and hellos occurred throughout the dining hall as Gayle found a spot at a table with a view of the water and the speaker. As a bonus, the aforementioned Chuck Hellar was seated to her right.
Ready to hit the buffet line, Gayle was intercepted by Rob Erb, super conductor of the universe of Lakewood Rotary. He asked, and Gayle responded in the affirmative, to be the meetings Zoom host or Zoom advocate. It is the responsibility of the Zoom host to mute participants on Zoom, spotlight speakers and make sure the President recognizes our guests online. That is, tasks that Gayle can accomplish with an 80% success rate. So, she felt ready to take on the job after enjoying her mixed meat sandwich. She felt confident until she saw James Osundwa and the speaker setting up a Power Point presentation on the main Zoom hosting computer. There are a couple things that give Gayle instant anxiety. . .those are curvy mountain roads and Power Point presentations.
Taking a deep breath after finishing lovely conversations with Steve Saalfeld, Kim Prentice and Chuck, Gayle headed to be the Zoom host at 12:25 pm. The interesting thing about the setup of the meeting is there is one computer for sound and another computer for viewing. Two screens in the meeting room illuminate either the podium area or those members enjoying the meeting at home. But two computers mean a little confusion as to what degree of control one has. It was noticed by James at 12:28 that those on Zoom were talking but we could not hear them in the meeting room. Usually, Zoom attendees can be heard loudly. Phil Eng and John Lowney were sitting next to each other looking like Bert and Ernie and talking away and we could NOT hear a word. So as President Jim Rooks called the meeting to order James and Gayle were worried the Zoom attendees would be muted forever.
Jim introduced Barlow Buescher for the invocation and Carl Bronkema for the flag salute. President Jim then thanked the set-up committee that includes James, Rob Erb and Rick Selden. He also thanked bulletin writer **** ***** and photographer Walt Richardson. It was at that moment both Gayle and Greg Rediske realized that **** was not in attendance in the room or on Zoom. Both Greg and Gayle looked around the room wondering if someone was covering for ****. Nobody was writing anything down! There were no notepads in front of the other possible writers. Jim continued the meeting and highlighted guests including Kim from a Rotary Club in Canada. Kim was on Zoom and went to speak and Gayle did the only thing that seemed like it could help a muted Zoom audience: she turned to the sound board and hit the main volume to Max. That worked! Kim could be heard all the way from Canada seeing how seamlessly we host hybrid meetings. (If she only knew. . .). Did the Puffins stand then? Gayle was distracted by the sound board.
While still gasping with eyebrows raised and a bit dazed by the turn of events, I (GR) remember that there was another superb invocation by Barlow Buescher. I may be prejudiced because he’s my neighbor, but doggone those are good invocations/thoughts that he provides. Then it was the pledge leading of Puffin Carl Bronkema, appropriately grateful to our assembled past and present service people, as today was our annual Veteran’s Day meeting. In recognition thereof, President Jim Rooks called upon Rob Erb to have his minions (led by Chief Minion James Osundwa) air our program which pictures our current Rotarians who have served, along with their unit and years of service. Always a delight. That Swedish guy’s photo always cracks me up, although we were warned not to laugh out loud.
President Jim then invited Rob Erb to share a video in honor of our veterans. Rob grabbed the mic and a screech was heard by all. Gayle quickly pulled the volume down to try and end the horrible sound. Thankfully, James was at the presentation computer to share the Power Point presentation Rob had created. But wait, it was playing without sound. Where was the sound????? A picture of Bill Allen as a youth serving in the Navy was projected on the screen for a long, silent moment. James figured out in a moment that the sound is shared by the other computer and the presentation computer had been muted. After a lengthy pause, the video, with sound, started playing. And Gayle again looked to Greg Rediske and wondered who is writing the bulletin. Gayle jumped up and went to her purse and found a notepad and a pen. She jotted down notes trying to remember what had happened in the meeting as pictures of Rotarians with younger faces passed on the screen. She notices how timeless Gary Fulton is and how John Magnuson’s picture could also double as a wanted poster. Troy Wilcox had such a baby face while talking on a pay phone. Gayle lamented that there will be a day when the world will have forgotten pay phones. It was a great show by Rob highlighting the service of so many of our members.
Eric Warn announced that Tom George’s brother-in-law recently passed, with sympathies to Tom and his family. Then it fell to Steve Enquist to be presented by President Jim with his 8th Paul Harris, followed by Steve then presenting Anne Enquist her 3rd (with a kiss as well, the only recipient to get a kiss from Steve),
Above: Not all Paul Harris awardees get a kiss but Anne Enquist did! Walt’s photo!
… Jim Weinand with his 6th, and finally, Mary Horn came to the front to receive her 6th. And her 7th. And her 8th. And her 9th. She was also showered with accolades for her work as Chief of Staff for Past DG Greg Horn and for her many announcements of where and when to get vaccinated this past year. We don’t usually announce this, but the bulletin staff got together and voted Mary the “Outstanding Member of the Meeting”. (God… isn’t this bulletin team fantastic, especially when they cover each other.)
Lakewood Rotary in Action Around the World:
Rose Stevens announced a global grant that she and Tom George were spearheading-- a water project for Brazil. She is in talks with other clubs for additional support to increase the total, while noting that our club got in for zero dollars. A friend of Tom’s from Microsoft volunteered money for a project in India that remains in limbo and agreed to put some of his gift to use here for our club’s contribution. Just fabulous work by all.
Above: Rose Stevens—Walt Richardson Photo
President Jim invited the glowing Rose Stevens to the podium to make an announcement about the World Community Service Committee. It was Rose’s first time back to meeting since before Covid. It was a moment she was relishing. Rose was excited to share that Tom George had found a Global Grant project to work on. Lakewood Rotary will be working with a club in Brazil doing something with water. Gayle realized her attention went to the Zoom screen checking on the attendees there and totally missed what Rose was talking about. Oh wait, she noticed Greg Rediske writing on a notepad. Is he writing the bulletin? Will Gayle’s transgressions of missing the important announcement be covered by Greg? Oh, she wished that would be. Gayle knew she could call Rose and get the information that the grant will cover 1,100 water storage tanks to help 5000 Brazilians who rely on a water truck to bring a weekly delivery of water. These tanks will also be for the safe and sanitary storage of water in this drought-ridden region of Brazil. And the funding for Lakewood Rotary’s part of the project was provided by a donor who wanted to support our world community service efforts.
Thankfully Greg Rediske’s notepad looked fuller than Gayle’s, she thought, as Jim Rooks handed Steve Enquist his 8th Paul Harris. Steve then thanked other members and they were handed their Paul Harris pins. Anne Enquist got a kiss, Jim Weinand did not. And the most noticeable of them was Mary Horn getting her 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th Paul Harris. Just one step away from being a major donor. Support of the Rotary Foundation helps fund global grants like the project in Brazil.
Then came the Bob Martin and Greg Horn show, with anniversary and birthday announcements. Highlights included Gordy Quick’s 51 years in Lakewood Rotary, and Bud Montgomery’s 52 years of marriage. Birthday boys present had to tell of their Thanksgiving traditions: Ed Shannon said, “Turkey”. Jim Rooks said, “Chicken, because I don’t like leftovers.” Rick Selden said, “Creamed onions, and voiced thanks by all attending”. Happy Birthday to all.
The room groaned as President Rooks announced it was time for Birthdays and Anniversaries with Greg Horn. Greg dragged Puffin Bob Martin to the Podium and they listed the Rotary Anniversaries and Wedding Anniversaries. Only three Birthday folks were in attendance and they were asked to share their family’s Thanksgiving traditions. Ed Shannon eats Turkey on Thanksgiving. Jim Rooks eats Chicken, as he hates leftovers. Rick Selden’s family food tradition is creamed onions and a tradition after the meal his sister, Marsha, asks all members to share what they are most thankful in the past year. As a member of Rick’s family, Gayle is thankful her father has perfected a non-dairy version of creamed onions so her lactose intolerance does not discourage continuing such a tradition.
Fines and Generous Giving:
Anne Enquist won $816 last week in the drawing and plans on a gift of a significant percentage to Rotary, once she figures out what Uncle Sam intends to take. Rob Erb thanked Phil Eng, John Lowney, Steve Mazoff, Don Daniels, and Rick Selden for the help in organizing the storage trailer and paid $20 as a result. Kim Prentice just returned from watching WSU beat ASU in Scottsdale, $20. Jason Whalen travelled a bit further, to Tuscany, Italy, where he was able to more effectively monitor his re-election campaign (which was apparently a good plan, as he won), $100. Peter Marsh was proud of his four eligible grandchildren (one of the five is only three years old) who got vaccinated, $80. And bringing up the tail end of this generosity was Ed Shannon, he who recently admitted to the shocking Thanksgiving tradition of eating turkey. Ed is turning 80 and rounded it up to $100. Jim Rooks’ fine budget continues to be blown up by our club’s great generosity.
President Rooks donned a sheriff hat and opened the floor for fines and generous giving. Gayle’s attention was diverted to the Zoom room. Peter Marsh was ready to speak. She missed Jason Whalen’s confession of an Italy trip and thankfulness for support in his winning of a race for City Council. Rumor has it he contributed $100. Peter Marsh paid $20 per vaccinated grandchild. Rob Erb paid $20 to honor those members who organized and cleaned the Rotary trailer including Rick Selden, John Lowney, Steve Enquist and Rob Erb. Ed Shannon promised $100 for a Birthday. Kim Prentice paid $20 for a trip to Arizona and the Cougs winning. Gayle is certain she missed something as the clock was ticking to another power point presentation being shared.
Above: Colonel Chung by Walt Richardson, Photographer
The Program:
John Caulfield took the podium and smiled with a grin you wouldn’t expect to see from a hockey player. He listed the amazing accolades of the speaker Colonel Jonathon Chung, commander of the 5th Security Force of the Assistance Brigade. It was at that moment the anxiety and dread were spreading in Gayle’s mind. . .a Power Point presentation needed to be shared. It’s on the browser and you have to share the screen with sound. What could go wrong? Thankfully James could assist with the Power Point prepared by the Colonel’s right-hand man.
Col. Chung shared his life with Lakewood Rotary. It was a presentation in which his life was presented like a story. You could see his growth and hear a dialogue of belief and perseverance. Col. Chung is a life-long learner and searches for enlightenment around all the corners. He made it through West Point after attending prep school. He led his two younger brothers in service. He is a leader to the troops and to the extended family in his home. Col. Chung mentioned his family and community connectors as an important part of his full health and well-being. Community manners. His words flowed out and filled the room with the wish to do and be better. Col Chung handled the speech well when a video with sound was to be shared and couldn’t be shared due to Gayle’s lack of knowledge. And James and the Colonel’s right-hand man could not figure it out either. So at least the failure of the video share was not on Gayle’s shoulders alone.
The Program
Above: The Colonel and the President by Walt Richardson
John Caulfield had the honor of introducing Colonel Jonathan Chung, who recently assumed command of the 5th Security Force Assistance Brigade at JBLM. The Colonel graduated from West Point in 1998, and subsequently has attended about a million army schools and received countless medals and commendations. His presentation was called “Family, Service, and Community,” and he proceeded to show how important a social network is in pursuing a successful life. A healthy lifestyle is one thing, but without the social network, it is all for naught. He recounted many of the times in his own life that his “team”, either compatriots or family, helped him up the ladder of life. His father was a lifetime military man, and both of his brothers also graduated from West Point. His greatest achievement is his two children and his wife, and now two grandchildren. His wife is fighting stage four cancer, but they are not alone in this fight, or any fight. Among his observations was that initially, Afghanistan was sent a brigade of 820 advisors. The second group was down to 400; then 100, and at the end, 29 advisors were there doing the same job that 820 did. That helps to explain the withdrawal problems. The Colonel said, “Life doesn’t get easier. You just get stronger.”
And that was a superb and inspiring Veteran’s Day presentation.
The Drawing was “won” by Walt Richardson, who drew white, which was worth $5. Which reminds me of something that I neglected to write down during my gasping and eyebrow raising time: Walt was the photographer; Jim Weinand was at the Paul Harris desk, and Bob Hammar or Chuck Hellar was teaching intern Greg Horn how to collect drawing money. And not only that, we had a visiting Rotarian from Victoria, Canada, via Zoom: Kim Barnard. (It should be noted that if you demand perfection from the bulletin writing team, well, sorry.)
Gayle’s failures did not end with the video on this day. She left the notes she had scribbled during the meeting behind on the table. From memory and picking the brains of Greg & Mary Horn and Rose Stevens she tried to document the meeting the best she could hoping Greg Rediske took much better notes. (In that case Gayle, you did darn well!...Ed.)
This Bulletin by Committee works pretty well, as what one misses, the others can cover. Maybe we should write one someday comprised of the notes of all bulletin committee members who are present in person or on Zoom that day. Editor.
Ready to hit the buffet line, Gayle was intercepted by Rob Erb, super conductor of the universe of Lakewood Rotary. He asked, and Gayle responded in the affirmative, to be the meetings Zoom host or Zoom advocate. It is the responsibility of the Zoom host to mute participants on Zoom, spotlight speakers and make sure the President recognizes our guests online. That is, tasks that Gayle can accomplish with an 80% success rate. So, she felt ready to take on the job after enjoying her mixed meat sandwich. She felt confident until she saw James Osundwa and the speaker setting up a Power Point presentation on the main Zoom hosting computer. There are a couple things that give Gayle instant anxiety. . .those are curvy mountain roads and Power Point presentations.
Taking a deep breath after finishing lovely conversations with Steve Saalfeld, Kim Prentice and Chuck, Gayle headed to be the Zoom host at 12:25 pm. The interesting thing about the setup of the meeting is there is one computer for sound and another computer for viewing. Two screens in the meeting room illuminate either the podium area or those members enjoying the meeting at home. But two computers mean a little confusion as to what degree of control one has. It was noticed by James at 12:28 that those on Zoom were talking but we could not hear them in the meeting room. Usually, Zoom attendees can be heard loudly. Phil Eng and John Lowney were sitting next to each other looking like Bert and Ernie and talking away and we could NOT hear a word. So as President Jim Rooks called the meeting to order James and Gayle were worried the Zoom attendees would be muted forever.
Jim introduced Barlow Buescher for the invocation and Carl Bronkema for the flag salute. President Jim then thanked the set-up committee that includes James, Rob Erb and Rick Selden. He also thanked bulletin writer **** ***** and photographer Walt Richardson. It was at that moment both Gayle and Greg Rediske realized that **** was not in attendance in the room or on Zoom. Both Greg and Gayle looked around the room wondering if someone was covering for ****. Nobody was writing anything down! There were no notepads in front of the other possible writers. Jim continued the meeting and highlighted guests including Kim from a Rotary Club in Canada. Kim was on Zoom and went to speak and Gayle did the only thing that seemed like it could help a muted Zoom audience: she turned to the sound board and hit the main volume to Max. That worked! Kim could be heard all the way from Canada seeing how seamlessly we host hybrid meetings. (If she only knew. . .). Did the Puffins stand then? Gayle was distracted by the sound board.
While still gasping with eyebrows raised and a bit dazed by the turn of events, I (GR) remember that there was another superb invocation by Barlow Buescher. I may be prejudiced because he’s my neighbor, but doggone those are good invocations/thoughts that he provides. Then it was the pledge leading of Puffin Carl Bronkema, appropriately grateful to our assembled past and present service people, as today was our annual Veteran’s Day meeting. In recognition thereof, President Jim Rooks called upon Rob Erb to have his minions (led by Chief Minion James Osundwa) air our program which pictures our current Rotarians who have served, along with their unit and years of service. Always a delight. That Swedish guy’s photo always cracks me up, although we were warned not to laugh out loud.
President Jim then invited Rob Erb to share a video in honor of our veterans. Rob grabbed the mic and a screech was heard by all. Gayle quickly pulled the volume down to try and end the horrible sound. Thankfully, James was at the presentation computer to share the Power Point presentation Rob had created. But wait, it was playing without sound. Where was the sound????? A picture of Bill Allen as a youth serving in the Navy was projected on the screen for a long, silent moment. James figured out in a moment that the sound is shared by the other computer and the presentation computer had been muted. After a lengthy pause, the video, with sound, started playing. And Gayle again looked to Greg Rediske and wondered who is writing the bulletin. Gayle jumped up and went to her purse and found a notepad and a pen. She jotted down notes trying to remember what had happened in the meeting as pictures of Rotarians with younger faces passed on the screen. She notices how timeless Gary Fulton is and how John Magnuson’s picture could also double as a wanted poster. Troy Wilcox had such a baby face while talking on a pay phone. Gayle lamented that there will be a day when the world will have forgotten pay phones. It was a great show by Rob highlighting the service of so many of our members.
Eric Warn announced that Tom George’s brother-in-law recently passed, with sympathies to Tom and his family. Then it fell to Steve Enquist to be presented by President Jim with his 8th Paul Harris, followed by Steve then presenting Anne Enquist her 3rd (with a kiss as well, the only recipient to get a kiss from Steve),
Above: Not all Paul Harris awardees get a kiss but Anne Enquist did! Walt’s photo!
… Jim Weinand with his 6th, and finally, Mary Horn came to the front to receive her 6th. And her 7th. And her 8th. And her 9th. She was also showered with accolades for her work as Chief of Staff for Past DG Greg Horn and for her many announcements of where and when to get vaccinated this past year. We don’t usually announce this, but the bulletin staff got together and voted Mary the “Outstanding Member of the Meeting”. (God… isn’t this bulletin team fantastic, especially when they cover each other.)
Lakewood Rotary in Action Around the World:
Rose Stevens announced a global grant that she and Tom George were spearheading-- a water project for Brazil. She is in talks with other clubs for additional support to increase the total, while noting that our club got in for zero dollars. A friend of Tom’s from Microsoft volunteered money for a project in India that remains in limbo and agreed to put some of his gift to use here for our club’s contribution. Just fabulous work by all.
Above: Rose Stevens—Walt Richardson Photo
President Jim invited the glowing Rose Stevens to the podium to make an announcement about the World Community Service Committee. It was Rose’s first time back to meeting since before Covid. It was a moment she was relishing. Rose was excited to share that Tom George had found a Global Grant project to work on. Lakewood Rotary will be working with a club in Brazil doing something with water. Gayle realized her attention went to the Zoom screen checking on the attendees there and totally missed what Rose was talking about. Oh wait, she noticed Greg Rediske writing on a notepad. Is he writing the bulletin? Will Gayle’s transgressions of missing the important announcement be covered by Greg? Oh, she wished that would be. Gayle knew she could call Rose and get the information that the grant will cover 1,100 water storage tanks to help 5000 Brazilians who rely on a water truck to bring a weekly delivery of water. These tanks will also be for the safe and sanitary storage of water in this drought-ridden region of Brazil. And the funding for Lakewood Rotary’s part of the project was provided by a donor who wanted to support our world community service efforts.
Thankfully Greg Rediske’s notepad looked fuller than Gayle’s, she thought, as Jim Rooks handed Steve Enquist his 8th Paul Harris. Steve then thanked other members and they were handed their Paul Harris pins. Anne Enquist got a kiss, Jim Weinand did not. And the most noticeable of them was Mary Horn getting her 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th Paul Harris. Just one step away from being a major donor. Support of the Rotary Foundation helps fund global grants like the project in Brazil.
Then came the Bob Martin and Greg Horn show, with anniversary and birthday announcements. Highlights included Gordy Quick’s 51 years in Lakewood Rotary, and Bud Montgomery’s 52 years of marriage. Birthday boys present had to tell of their Thanksgiving traditions: Ed Shannon said, “Turkey”. Jim Rooks said, “Chicken, because I don’t like leftovers.” Rick Selden said, “Creamed onions, and voiced thanks by all attending”. Happy Birthday to all.
The room groaned as President Rooks announced it was time for Birthdays and Anniversaries with Greg Horn. Greg dragged Puffin Bob Martin to the Podium and they listed the Rotary Anniversaries and Wedding Anniversaries. Only three Birthday folks were in attendance and they were asked to share their family’s Thanksgiving traditions. Ed Shannon eats Turkey on Thanksgiving. Jim Rooks eats Chicken, as he hates leftovers. Rick Selden’s family food tradition is creamed onions and a tradition after the meal his sister, Marsha, asks all members to share what they are most thankful in the past year. As a member of Rick’s family, Gayle is thankful her father has perfected a non-dairy version of creamed onions so her lactose intolerance does not discourage continuing such a tradition.
Fines and Generous Giving:
Anne Enquist won $816 last week in the drawing and plans on a gift of a significant percentage to Rotary, once she figures out what Uncle Sam intends to take. Rob Erb thanked Phil Eng, John Lowney, Steve Mazoff, Don Daniels, and Rick Selden for the help in organizing the storage trailer and paid $20 as a result. Kim Prentice just returned from watching WSU beat ASU in Scottsdale, $20. Jason Whalen travelled a bit further, to Tuscany, Italy, where he was able to more effectively monitor his re-election campaign (which was apparently a good plan, as he won), $100. Peter Marsh was proud of his four eligible grandchildren (one of the five is only three years old) who got vaccinated, $80. And bringing up the tail end of this generosity was Ed Shannon, he who recently admitted to the shocking Thanksgiving tradition of eating turkey. Ed is turning 80 and rounded it up to $100. Jim Rooks’ fine budget continues to be blown up by our club’s great generosity.
President Rooks donned a sheriff hat and opened the floor for fines and generous giving. Gayle’s attention was diverted to the Zoom room. Peter Marsh was ready to speak. She missed Jason Whalen’s confession of an Italy trip and thankfulness for support in his winning of a race for City Council. Rumor has it he contributed $100. Peter Marsh paid $20 per vaccinated grandchild. Rob Erb paid $20 to honor those members who organized and cleaned the Rotary trailer including Rick Selden, John Lowney, Steve Enquist and Rob Erb. Ed Shannon promised $100 for a Birthday. Kim Prentice paid $20 for a trip to Arizona and the Cougs winning. Gayle is certain she missed something as the clock was ticking to another power point presentation being shared.
Above: Colonel Chung by Walt Richardson, Photographer
The Program:
John Caulfield took the podium and smiled with a grin you wouldn’t expect to see from a hockey player. He listed the amazing accolades of the speaker Colonel Jonathon Chung, commander of the 5th Security Force of the Assistance Brigade. It was at that moment the anxiety and dread were spreading in Gayle’s mind. . .a Power Point presentation needed to be shared. It’s on the browser and you have to share the screen with sound. What could go wrong? Thankfully James could assist with the Power Point prepared by the Colonel’s right-hand man.
Col. Chung shared his life with Lakewood Rotary. It was a presentation in which his life was presented like a story. You could see his growth and hear a dialogue of belief and perseverance. Col. Chung is a life-long learner and searches for enlightenment around all the corners. He made it through West Point after attending prep school. He led his two younger brothers in service. He is a leader to the troops and to the extended family in his home. Col. Chung mentioned his family and community connectors as an important part of his full health and well-being. Community manners. His words flowed out and filled the room with the wish to do and be better. Col Chung handled the speech well when a video with sound was to be shared and couldn’t be shared due to Gayle’s lack of knowledge. And James and the Colonel’s right-hand man could not figure it out either. So at least the failure of the video share was not on Gayle’s shoulders alone.
The Program
Above: The Colonel and the President by Walt Richardson
John Caulfield had the honor of introducing Colonel Jonathan Chung, who recently assumed command of the 5th Security Force Assistance Brigade at JBLM. The Colonel graduated from West Point in 1998, and subsequently has attended about a million army schools and received countless medals and commendations. His presentation was called “Family, Service, and Community,” and he proceeded to show how important a social network is in pursuing a successful life. A healthy lifestyle is one thing, but without the social network, it is all for naught. He recounted many of the times in his own life that his “team”, either compatriots or family, helped him up the ladder of life. His father was a lifetime military man, and both of his brothers also graduated from West Point. His greatest achievement is his two children and his wife, and now two grandchildren. His wife is fighting stage four cancer, but they are not alone in this fight, or any fight. Among his observations was that initially, Afghanistan was sent a brigade of 820 advisors. The second group was down to 400; then 100, and at the end, 29 advisors were there doing the same job that 820 did. That helps to explain the withdrawal problems. The Colonel said, “Life doesn’t get easier. You just get stronger.”
And that was a superb and inspiring Veteran’s Day presentation.
The Drawing was “won” by Walt Richardson, who drew white, which was worth $5. Which reminds me of something that I neglected to write down during my gasping and eyebrow raising time: Walt was the photographer; Jim Weinand was at the Paul Harris desk, and Bob Hammar or Chuck Hellar was teaching intern Greg Horn how to collect drawing money. And not only that, we had a visiting Rotarian from Victoria, Canada, via Zoom: Kim Barnard. (It should be noted that if you demand perfection from the bulletin writing team, well, sorry.)
Gayle’s failures did not end with the video on this day. She left the notes she had scribbled during the meeting behind on the table. From memory and picking the brains of Greg & Mary Horn and Rose Stevens she tried to document the meeting the best she could hoping Greg Rediske took much better notes. (In that case Gayle, you did darn well!...Ed.)
This Bulletin by Committee works pretty well, as what one misses, the others can cover. Maybe we should write one someday comprised of the notes of all bulletin committee members who are present in person or on Zoom that day. Editor.
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Supreme Court Update
Sunday, October 31, 2021 By: Paula T. Olson
Update on the U. S. Supreme CourtTHE LAKEWOOD KEY for October 29, 2021
This Friday was special! It was this writer’s first in-person Rotary meeting since the pandemic shut us down, and such a great delight to see everyone’s full persons! Anyone who is able should give it a go.
President Jim opened the meeting with his usual prompt and seriousness. Puffin Andy Phillips did a great job leading us in the Pledge of Allegiance and Bob Peterson provided the invocation. Rounding out the meeting set up were our ever-faithful techie Kendra Riconosciuto, Rob Erb, James Osundwa and others. John Lowney engaged in his favorite activity: collecting money/fines, Paula Olson wrote this bulletin, and Walt Richardson took pictures. Chuck Hellar was the Sergeant at Arms and worked the $2.00 raffle desk and Gary Fulton manned the Foundation Desk.
We had no visiting Rotarians but a few guests, including Ellen Mazoff, Norm Fiacci, colleague of Jim Sharp, Kris Quinn, Joe Quinn’s wife and Shiru Osundwa, James’ wife, on Zoom. When President Jim asked the Puffins to stand up, half the room stood. What a great group of newbies we have! (Which reminds me of an item on my Christmas wish list: a new rule at Lakewood Rotary meetings. If you are going to stand up, speak, murmur, think out loud, announce, mumble, report, whisper, and/or stand on your head, you first turn toward the bulletin writer and loudly and SLOWLY say your name, spelling your last name and your first if it’s any different than “Joe” “Bob,” “Sue,” “Mary.” Alternatively, in the interest of time or decorum, you may walk over to said writer and show your name tag long enough for him/her to write your name down. This need only take place once, as long as you do not change clothes during the meeting.)
Eric Warn gave the floor to Rick Selden for the Sunshine report. Rick hoofed it over to Gig Harbor to hang out with Tom Sadler and his wife Sharon. Tom has Parkinson’s and is losing much mobility. Tom’s speech is a bit impaired; Sharon is doing well but her cancer is back. Tom said “hi” to us and would love to see anyone who felt like a field trip. Ed Shannon paid $300 to celebrate his last doctor’s report of no more cancer and no more treatments. Great news, Ed!
Now for that special time that lives in our hearts forever: induction of a new member. This time it was Toby Roberts, the new Executive Director at the Lakewood YMCA, introduced by Eric Warn. President Jim did the formalities, including presentation of the goodies and invoice. We all welcomed Toby with an ovation, and Toby got his two minutes to talk about himself. He expressed his gratitude and honor to be a member of such an illustrious group. He noted that our mission and that of the Y are very similar. He has been in his position for only two and a half months but he intends to stay for a very long time. He’s a local boy, graduating from Stadium High, Washington State University (go Cougs!) and will be glued to the TV watching the Seahawks turn it around. Bob Martin leapt up to pass off his Puffin to Toby. Bob said his wife was going to build it a nest but the puffin was so happy sitting on Bob’s lap she never got around to it.
Steve Enquist presented two Paul Harris awards: John Lowney with his fourth and Jim Rooks with his third. Collections for the Foundation at this meeting totaled $1,810. Steve told us that November is Foundation month and the District is offering an incentive for us to clean out our wallets before the holidays. The more we donate to the Foundation, the more likely the District will funnel back to our club some of that money. The details weren’t clear but the message was: Get those checks in between Monday, November 1, and Tuesday, November 30, 2021.
Pres. Rooks gave John Korsmo the floor, but Jim looked clearly nervous about that upcoming roast. John shared with us that he has been friends with President Jim for a long time so he’s got the dirt and so will we on December 17th, the annual holiday roasting of the President. John will set up meetings for the Puffins to gather, plot and plan. Chuck Hellar, Chair of the $2.00 desk, said he needs two more people to sit at the desk and sell tickets. John Lowney announced that we have raised $5,000 for the Mosque damaged by arson and President Jim expressed his gratitude for our generosity. Jim also said he got a nice note of thanks from Marge Hoffman from Wreaths Across America.
If you are on Zoom, you can’t fully appreciate that moment in the meeting where President Jim dons his safari hat (or is it his Canadian Mountie hat? Wild Wild West hat? Or Captain Wilton Parmenter’s hat from F Troop?) and says “it’s time for fines and generous giving!” Joe Quinn stepped up to pay $1.00 per ounce or $100 to honor his new grandson, Mogmo or as he is formally known, Madsen. He got the name “Mogmo” from Joe’s valiant effort to decipher Eric’s handwriting on the card announcing his birth and name. President Rooks said that the only profession as bad, or worse, than doctors at business and handwriting are lawyers. Dave Swindale is hunting in Winthrop and pledged $0 for each buck and $100 for each doe. (Pretty sure he shot the dough.) He also kicked in $100 to the RI Foundation. Steve and Anne Enquist went to New England and San Francisco and paid $20 each. President Jim said that Phil Eng instructed Jim to go the Pierce County Presidents’ meeting and drum up support for the Courage Classic. Jim did and Phil will share details from an undisclosed location next week after another unnamed Rotarian and spouse join him and Judy. It’s a place sunny and warm. Hhmmm, where could that be?
THE PROGRAM:
Above: Professor Andy Siegel
Anne Enquist introduced our speaker – Professor Andrew Siegel, who is an expert on the U.S. Supreme Court or USSC as we lawyers call it (and I will herein). Professor Siegel graduated Summa Cum Laude from Yale University, with a Master’s from Princeton University and a law degree from the New York University School of Law, graduating first in his class. He clerked for the U. S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit (a big deal) and Justice John Paul Stevens of the USSC (a huge deal) along with Eduardo Penalver, the new President of Seattle University Law School. After his clerkships, he worked in a prestigious law firm and then taught at the University of South Carolina Law School. He was “stolen” years ago by Seattle University Law School where he is now the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs. He was a great constitutional law teacher. He said that he enjoys giving these talks,because his current job keeps him out of the classroom, which he misses dearly. He gave us his thoughts about the USSC, past, present and future.
Professor Siegel said that this term will probably be the most consequential in our lifetime. The Court itself is under due to the political process of appointments and some say it needs serious reforms not attempted in decades. Professor Siegel said, to talk about the USSC, one needs to have some historical background, understand its culture, and its place in our society. The Constitution established the Court but without any details, such as how many justices should serve on it. Originally there were six justices. Then President George Washington appointed lawyers and judges from six states. It wasn’t a glamorous job. The justices went from town to town hearing appeals from the trial courts. The intermediate federal appeals courts did not exist yet. That was called “riding the circuit”, with the justices traveling by horse and buggy. They were gone a lot and didn’t stay in the job very long.
Chief Justice John Marshall consolidated power in the Court in the leading case of Marbury v. Madison. In his tenure as Chief Justice he caused the Court to be located in one place, and even to live together in a boarding house. Almost all opinions were documented in one opinion, with little or no dissenting or concurring opinions. Over the years, the size of the Court changed up and down, for as many as ten and as few as five justices. Some Presidents got who they wanted and others didn’t. A wide variety of people served on the Court: former judges, lawyers and legislators. For the most part, they stayed out of politics except for the Dred Scott decision (for those of you not up on your USSC case law, that decision held that African Americans who were slaves or descendants from slaves were not U.S. citizens.). The 1890’s began court precedents, known as the Lochner Period, where the Court pretty much decided cases based on what the justices wanted, and did not reflect the wishes of society. The Court thus came into conflict with President Franklin D. Roosevelt, because the justices were so out of touch with a changing society. That led to a court packing plan by FDR, but that never really got off the ground. Thereafter, however, the USSC began to change. The Court became more cooperative with the executive branch and began to uphold many of the New Deal policies and programs that FDR espoused and many felt the nation needed. The Court created new norms for itself.
In 1950, the Warren Court came about and produced many landmark decisions such as Brown v. Board of Education (desegregating schools) and Miranda v. Arizona, (advising arrestees of constitutional rights), one person, one vote and systemic due process. It articulated the doctrine of judicial supremacy, where the Court rules on what the Constitution means and strikes down legislation they find unconstitutional. For forty years, the Court was pretty stable, staying in the center right politically, but not as far right as the Court is currently.
From 1990 to the 2000’s, the Court moved more to the center left, but now it is further to the right. Even though the Democrats have won the popular vote for President, the Republicans have gotten control of the Court, through the recent appointments; This will keep that control for generations to come, Professor Siegel said. Generally, throughout our history, the USSC has usually followed the election results, to be in step with the majority of the country but now he feels it is out of step.
To talk a little about its culture, Professor Siegel said that walking into the Supreme Court building is an awesome experience. It is very traditional. The justices embrace that tradition, with a sense of self-importance. Their clerks are treated as members of “the club.” The justices all have similar backgrounds. Most went to one of the top law schools in the nation. Six of the current justices clerked for USSC justices. All but one served on the federal appeals court bench. They claim that they aren’t political and don’t like to associated with either political party. Recently Justices Breyer and Alito pushed back against the media. Justice Breyer didn’t appreciate their questions about his possible retirement; Justice Alito didn’t like questions about the so-called “shadow docket”, which relates to those cases that come before the Court on an emergency basis, without full briefing and oral argument. (The shadow docket has been used more often lately, such as with the Texas anti-abortion law, which allows enforcement by anyone, rather than by state officials.) Congress has a lot of power to make changes in the Court but hasn’t used that power very often in our history. When justices make decisions, they fall back on their own values and political allegiances. Professor Siegel noted that both parties are better now at getting justices that reflect their party’s political views. For example, Justice Kagan has a Democrat background and Justice Kavanaugh has a Republican background.
The USSC is a small, elite judicial body. Its members are not really representative of the people as a whole. The justices often have little or no training in economics, history or philosophy. Now, it is less likely that they will represent the will of the people. This leads to the future of the Court being bleaker than usual and more concerning according to Professor Siegel. Professor Siegel said the new configuration – 6 to the right (and further to the right than before) and only three to the left creates a new perception of the Court. This is a new political era that affects the justices’ perception of themselves and our perception of the Court. In the short term, a lot of laws and Court precedents may well change. Issues and precedents relating to abortion and the Second Amendment will be addressed this term and may be precedent-setting. We can never predict their ruling on any individual case, but they will have to spend some political capital to maintain a good image with a large part of the electorate.
An example of this was with the Bush v. Gore decision (which settled the 2000 presidential election between George W. Bush and Al Gore). Professor Siegel worked on the dissent with Justice Stevens. Although the Court took a dip in popularity after that ruling, it built up its credibility and gradually bounced back into favor. Now the proponents of court reform are on the defensive because they have to address the big gap between the Court and the country. The Court has to move back in line with the country or face the consequences of staying so far out of line, in Professor Siegel’s opinion. Certain divisive issues, such as voting rights, put a lot of pressure on the Court that it might not be aware of, as there is a lot of pressure to rule along party lines. It’s not good for the Court’s credibility if it continually is asked to rule on issues that might be perceived as decided according to which party put that justice on the bench. All of the justices are deeply politically situated so it will be fascinating to see how it plays out.
Questions from Rotary members brought up these issues: In the past, Chief Justice Roberts was seen as the swing vote. Will that continue? Professor Siegel said he is the most interesting member. His background is very conservative but he bounces back and forth between the two roles. Although he was once very conservative, he’s not so much anymore. He is the fourth most liberal justice. Professor Siegel thinks of Justice Kavanaugh or Gorsuch as possible swing voters. It’s really not the John Roberts’ court but is it instead the Clarence Thomas Court? He is an interesting justice because he barely says a word on the bench but he is the unofficial leader, perhaps because Justice Thomas is the most senior and consistent member of the bench. He has a reputation for courage. Justice Thomas is the most affable and easiest to get along with. There are stories that he used to stutter and had a hard time speaking in public so that might be the reason why he says little during oral arguments which are really just a time to be a show pony. He is the most extreme of the five conservative justices and has never cast the deciding vote.
The yo-yoing of the Court in terms of party appointees in the past was more controlled but now it is not certain. Justice Breyer wants to play a role in stabilizing the Court but he really doesn’t have the numbers to do it. The Republicans put a lot of work into putting their people on the bench so they want the benefit. Historically, we can be optimistic but this Court is so unique that we aren’t sure what will be the outcome.
President Rooks thanked Professor Siegel for his most interesting talk. At raffle time, there was $817 in the pot. Anne Enquist, who introduce our speaker, pulled a red chip and got all the money. Have a great week. Happy Halloween and see ya all next Friday.
Eric Warn gave the floor to Rick Selden for the Sunshine report. Rick hoofed it over to Gig Harbor to hang out with Tom Sadler and his wife Sharon. Tom has Parkinson’s and is losing much mobility. Tom’s speech is a bit impaired; Sharon is doing well but her cancer is back. Tom said “hi” to us and would love to see anyone who felt like a field trip. Ed Shannon paid $300 to celebrate his last doctor’s report of no more cancer and no more treatments. Great news, Ed!
Now for that special time that lives in our hearts forever: induction of a new member. This time it was Toby Roberts, the new Executive Director at the Lakewood YMCA, introduced by Eric Warn. President Jim did the formalities, including presentation of the goodies and invoice. We all welcomed Toby with an ovation, and Toby got his two minutes to talk about himself. He expressed his gratitude and honor to be a member of such an illustrious group. He noted that our mission and that of the Y are very similar. He has been in his position for only two and a half months but he intends to stay for a very long time. He’s a local boy, graduating from Stadium High, Washington State University (go Cougs!) and will be glued to the TV watching the Seahawks turn it around. Bob Martin leapt up to pass off his Puffin to Toby. Bob said his wife was going to build it a nest but the puffin was so happy sitting on Bob’s lap she never got around to it.
Steve Enquist presented two Paul Harris awards: John Lowney with his fourth and Jim Rooks with his third. Collections for the Foundation at this meeting totaled $1,810. Steve told us that November is Foundation month and the District is offering an incentive for us to clean out our wallets before the holidays. The more we donate to the Foundation, the more likely the District will funnel back to our club some of that money. The details weren’t clear but the message was: Get those checks in between Monday, November 1, and Tuesday, November 30, 2021.
Pres. Rooks gave John Korsmo the floor, but Jim looked clearly nervous about that upcoming roast. John shared with us that he has been friends with President Jim for a long time so he’s got the dirt and so will we on December 17th, the annual holiday roasting of the President. John will set up meetings for the Puffins to gather, plot and plan. Chuck Hellar, Chair of the $2.00 desk, said he needs two more people to sit at the desk and sell tickets. John Lowney announced that we have raised $5,000 for the Mosque damaged by arson and President Jim expressed his gratitude for our generosity. Jim also said he got a nice note of thanks from Marge Hoffman from Wreaths Across America.
If you are on Zoom, you can’t fully appreciate that moment in the meeting where President Jim dons his safari hat (or is it his Canadian Mountie hat? Wild Wild West hat? Or Captain Wilton Parmenter’s hat from F Troop?) and says “it’s time for fines and generous giving!” Joe Quinn stepped up to pay $1.00 per ounce or $100 to honor his new grandson, Mogmo or as he is formally known, Madsen. He got the name “Mogmo” from Joe’s valiant effort to decipher Eric’s handwriting on the card announcing his birth and name. President Rooks said that the only profession as bad, or worse, than doctors at business and handwriting are lawyers. Dave Swindale is hunting in Winthrop and pledged $0 for each buck and $100 for each doe. (Pretty sure he shot the dough.) He also kicked in $100 to the RI Foundation. Steve and Anne Enquist went to New England and San Francisco and paid $20 each. President Jim said that Phil Eng instructed Jim to go the Pierce County Presidents’ meeting and drum up support for the Courage Classic. Jim did and Phil will share details from an undisclosed location next week after another unnamed Rotarian and spouse join him and Judy. It’s a place sunny and warm. Hhmmm, where could that be?
THE PROGRAM:
Above: Professor Andy Siegel
Anne Enquist introduced our speaker – Professor Andrew Siegel, who is an expert on the U.S. Supreme Court or USSC as we lawyers call it (and I will herein). Professor Siegel graduated Summa Cum Laude from Yale University, with a Master’s from Princeton University and a law degree from the New York University School of Law, graduating first in his class. He clerked for the U. S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit (a big deal) and Justice John Paul Stevens of the USSC (a huge deal) along with Eduardo Penalver, the new President of Seattle University Law School. After his clerkships, he worked in a prestigious law firm and then taught at the University of South Carolina Law School. He was “stolen” years ago by Seattle University Law School where he is now the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs. He was a great constitutional law teacher. He said that he enjoys giving these talks,because his current job keeps him out of the classroom, which he misses dearly. He gave us his thoughts about the USSC, past, present and future.
Professor Siegel said that this term will probably be the most consequential in our lifetime. The Court itself is under due to the political process of appointments and some say it needs serious reforms not attempted in decades. Professor Siegel said, to talk about the USSC, one needs to have some historical background, understand its culture, and its place in our society. The Constitution established the Court but without any details, such as how many justices should serve on it. Originally there were six justices. Then President George Washington appointed lawyers and judges from six states. It wasn’t a glamorous job. The justices went from town to town hearing appeals from the trial courts. The intermediate federal appeals courts did not exist yet. That was called “riding the circuit”, with the justices traveling by horse and buggy. They were gone a lot and didn’t stay in the job very long.
Chief Justice John Marshall consolidated power in the Court in the leading case of Marbury v. Madison. In his tenure as Chief Justice he caused the Court to be located in one place, and even to live together in a boarding house. Almost all opinions were documented in one opinion, with little or no dissenting or concurring opinions. Over the years, the size of the Court changed up and down, for as many as ten and as few as five justices. Some Presidents got who they wanted and others didn’t. A wide variety of people served on the Court: former judges, lawyers and legislators. For the most part, they stayed out of politics except for the Dred Scott decision (for those of you not up on your USSC case law, that decision held that African Americans who were slaves or descendants from slaves were not U.S. citizens.). The 1890’s began court precedents, known as the Lochner Period, where the Court pretty much decided cases based on what the justices wanted, and did not reflect the wishes of society. The Court thus came into conflict with President Franklin D. Roosevelt, because the justices were so out of touch with a changing society. That led to a court packing plan by FDR, but that never really got off the ground. Thereafter, however, the USSC began to change. The Court became more cooperative with the executive branch and began to uphold many of the New Deal policies and programs that FDR espoused and many felt the nation needed. The Court created new norms for itself.
In 1950, the Warren Court came about and produced many landmark decisions such as Brown v. Board of Education (desegregating schools) and Miranda v. Arizona, (advising arrestees of constitutional rights), one person, one vote and systemic due process. It articulated the doctrine of judicial supremacy, where the Court rules on what the Constitution means and strikes down legislation they find unconstitutional. For forty years, the Court was pretty stable, staying in the center right politically, but not as far right as the Court is currently.
From 1990 to the 2000’s, the Court moved more to the center left, but now it is further to the right. Even though the Democrats have won the popular vote for President, the Republicans have gotten control of the Court, through the recent appointments; This will keep that control for generations to come, Professor Siegel said. Generally, throughout our history, the USSC has usually followed the election results, to be in step with the majority of the country but now he feels it is out of step.
To talk a little about its culture, Professor Siegel said that walking into the Supreme Court building is an awesome experience. It is very traditional. The justices embrace that tradition, with a sense of self-importance. Their clerks are treated as members of “the club.” The justices all have similar backgrounds. Most went to one of the top law schools in the nation. Six of the current justices clerked for USSC justices. All but one served on the federal appeals court bench. They claim that they aren’t political and don’t like to associated with either political party. Recently Justices Breyer and Alito pushed back against the media. Justice Breyer didn’t appreciate their questions about his possible retirement; Justice Alito didn’t like questions about the so-called “shadow docket”, which relates to those cases that come before the Court on an emergency basis, without full briefing and oral argument. (The shadow docket has been used more often lately, such as with the Texas anti-abortion law, which allows enforcement by anyone, rather than by state officials.) Congress has a lot of power to make changes in the Court but hasn’t used that power very often in our history. When justices make decisions, they fall back on their own values and political allegiances. Professor Siegel noted that both parties are better now at getting justices that reflect their party’s political views. For example, Justice Kagan has a Democrat background and Justice Kavanaugh has a Republican background.
The USSC is a small, elite judicial body. Its members are not really representative of the people as a whole. The justices often have little or no training in economics, history or philosophy. Now, it is less likely that they will represent the will of the people. This leads to the future of the Court being bleaker than usual and more concerning according to Professor Siegel. Professor Siegel said the new configuration – 6 to the right (and further to the right than before) and only three to the left creates a new perception of the Court. This is a new political era that affects the justices’ perception of themselves and our perception of the Court. In the short term, a lot of laws and Court precedents may well change. Issues and precedents relating to abortion and the Second Amendment will be addressed this term and may be precedent-setting. We can never predict their ruling on any individual case, but they will have to spend some political capital to maintain a good image with a large part of the electorate.
An example of this was with the Bush v. Gore decision (which settled the 2000 presidential election between George W. Bush and Al Gore). Professor Siegel worked on the dissent with Justice Stevens. Although the Court took a dip in popularity after that ruling, it built up its credibility and gradually bounced back into favor. Now the proponents of court reform are on the defensive because they have to address the big gap between the Court and the country. The Court has to move back in line with the country or face the consequences of staying so far out of line, in Professor Siegel’s opinion. Certain divisive issues, such as voting rights, put a lot of pressure on the Court that it might not be aware of, as there is a lot of pressure to rule along party lines. It’s not good for the Court’s credibility if it continually is asked to rule on issues that might be perceived as decided according to which party put that justice on the bench. All of the justices are deeply politically situated so it will be fascinating to see how it plays out.
Questions from Rotary members brought up these issues: In the past, Chief Justice Roberts was seen as the swing vote. Will that continue? Professor Siegel said he is the most interesting member. His background is very conservative but he bounces back and forth between the two roles. Although he was once very conservative, he’s not so much anymore. He is the fourth most liberal justice. Professor Siegel thinks of Justice Kavanaugh or Gorsuch as possible swing voters. It’s really not the John Roberts’ court but is it instead the Clarence Thomas Court? He is an interesting justice because he barely says a word on the bench but he is the unofficial leader, perhaps because Justice Thomas is the most senior and consistent member of the bench. He has a reputation for courage. Justice Thomas is the most affable and easiest to get along with. There are stories that he used to stutter and had a hard time speaking in public so that might be the reason why he says little during oral arguments which are really just a time to be a show pony. He is the most extreme of the five conservative justices and has never cast the deciding vote.
The yo-yoing of the Court in terms of party appointees in the past was more controlled but now it is not certain. Justice Breyer wants to play a role in stabilizing the Court but he really doesn’t have the numbers to do it. The Republicans put a lot of work into putting their people on the bench so they want the benefit. Historically, we can be optimistic but this Court is so unique that we aren’t sure what will be the outcome.
President Rooks thanked Professor Siegel for his most interesting talk. At raffle time, there was $817 in the pot. Anne Enquist, who introduce our speaker, pulled a red chip and got all the money. Have a great week. Happy Halloween and see ya all next Friday.
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Gathering to Make a Difference
Sunday, October 24, 2021 By: Mary Marlin
Gathering to Make a DifferenceTHE LAKEWOOD KEY
For October 22, 2021
And the meeting began.....gently startling my coffee cup right after the intentional ding of the opening bell. Welcome, Lakewood Rotarians! President Jim Rooks called the meeting to order and asked Clint Johnson to give our invocation. Soon after, Peter Marsh then invited fellow Rotarians and guests to join him in the Pledge of Allegiance. President Rooks then mentioned that many days have been given special names like National Nut Day, Dog Day, Mole Day, Boston Cream Pie Day (a favorite), and Make a Difference Day in March (always needed). So today we will also Make a Difference by assembling, working for the common good and enjoying our time together.
Above: Making the meeting happen, this picture includes Bud Montgomery at PH desk, Chuck Hellar at the raffle table, and Mary Marlin waving about bulletin writing. John Lowney, fine fine recorder, is trying to discern if he has the $2 for a raffle ticket. I bet he does. Phil Eng, our photog for the day, gets credit for this one. Dave Hall, Sergeant at Arms, is not shown here but he was there.
Making the meeting happen and helping with set-up was Leanna Christian, Rob Erb, Tom George, James Osundwa, Greg Rediske and Terry Roarke. It makes you appreciate how many energetic people it takes to make a meeting happen both in house and with zoom availability!
Tony Camoroda, our AD Governor, was welcomed by the club as well as Angela Connelly, and Mrs. Bronkema, wife of Carl, who will soon be a new member of the club! The new Puffins were asked to stand and were applauded for their energy in joining our special membership. They were: Jessica James, Dave Hall, Carl Bronkema, Rachel Mazoff, Steve Saalfeld, Connie Colman-Lacadie, Jamie Simons, Wendy McGowan, Anthony Veliz, Bob Martin and Andy Phillips. Great to have them here! Eric Warn had no Sunshine news today which sometimes is good news.
Above: Our new Sunshine Chair, Eric Warn, had nothing to say (never true). Phil Eng photo.
Announcements were then made. Bob Bruback mentioned that the Community Concerns Committee had three grant requests. The first one was for the Lakewood Art Festival. The approval of $900 to promote the arts and encourage young people to learn more about opportunities they may want to pursue to advance their own artistic passions was given by all members. Last year 1600 people attended the festival. The second request was from Hope Sparks Family Services. This organization is 125 years old and has helped families deal with behavioral and emotional issues in their families as they reach out for assistance. Note that 4000 children were helped in 2020! Instead of the $500 requested, the committee felt more was needed and doubled the request to $1000 and all members approved. The third grant request was from Making a Difference Foundation and $2000 was requested for children in need of food or school supplies. Elderly and disabled adults are also helped by this organization and have had food delivered and given assistance as needed. The Rotarians then moved and seconded the request of $2000. (Under our bylaws, donations of $2000 or more need formal member approval.)
Rose Stevens spoke about World Service organization and the work they do with young Rotarians in Nepal who are daily wage workers and how this organization works to keep them in school and have needed supplies and food. Mary Horn was given recognition for her commitment to the Paul Harris Society by (as Greg Horn says), checking the box!
It was then time for Birthdays and Anniversaries. Greg Horn and Clint Johnson were the presenters ...and outers...of both Birthdays and Anniversaries which often carry a fine....just because. Clint suggested folks mention a special Halloween costume they may have loved to wear. Bob Bruback loved his lumberjack costume because he liked to carry the ax around. Mary Horn was nine months and two weeks pregnant and could only fit in the Rainier Beer Bottle costume one year. Gotta ask her about the M and M costume she didn't want to talk about. Hmm. Birthdays noted were Gordy Quick, Mary Horn, Bob Bruback, Charlie Hyde, Tom Sadler, Barb Spriggs, and Mike Zaro. Partner birthdays were Leanna Christian’s husband Dalles Christian and Jason Whalen’s wife Gael. Members who had anniversaries in Rotary were: Dave Hall, Bob Bruback, Chuck Hellar, Rose Stevens, Ed Shannon, Duncan Cook and Bob Zawilski. Wedding anniversaries were being celebrated by Dave Reames and Barbara for 20 years and John Lowney and Pam for 22 years.
Generous Giving:
President Rooks then mentioned that he knew of several people who had been tripping.....okay, going on trips. James Osundwa and his wife enjoyed 6 days in Cabo (not to be confused as some were, with Kabul). They had great fun and had time to unplug, reset and hydrate. $50 generously donated. Rob Erb drove across the country from Minnesota to Montana with snow and checked out a Project Corvette, I believe, in Minnesota. $50 generously donated. Greg Horn was touring upstate New York with Mary and Rose Stevens. Fall foliage was great. He donated $50. Steve Saalfeld visited his daughter at Trinity University in Texas and was amazed by the new football stadium with the giant screens. His daughter loves it there too. A $25 donation was given. Sally Porter Smith announced she is putting her house in Dupont up for sale because she is moving to Seattle the first of the year. She will continue to help with the auction this coming year and will be a consultant as needed. She offered to donate $25, but Jim Rooks jumped in and said he would pay because she has given so much time and effort and help to our club. Jan Gee also matched that amount and gave kudos to Sally for all her hard work as an amazing problem solver and great leader. Bill Potter donated $20 to Nourish to help supply food to 600 families. If you are a van driver, call him. Clint Johnson has traveled up and down the west coast to see his grandkids and mentioned that he is the president of Tacoma Arts and encourages all to attend the Rialto and Pantages. He has a 20% discount if you step up soon. He also welcomed the Puffins and is excited about the Christmas Party and Puffin participation he and John Korsmo will celebrate together with them. His donation of $100 was appreciated. Mary Horn donated, I believe, $20 for her birthday, $25 for Sally, and $50 to match Greg's donation. Very generous!
OUR PROGRAM:
Above: Mark Haskins of Pierce College/JBLM. Phil Eng photo.
Barlow Buescher then introduced our speaker of the day, Mark Haskins, the Executive Director of Pierce College at JBLM. Barlow has known Mark for some time and his admiration for Mark is that he offers steady, clear leadership with both students and colleagues alike. Mark appreciated Barlow's comments and gently apologized to Rotarians because he is in Kiwanis. All is forgiven and with that he enlightened us about the work that he is doing to help students stay on the educational path while working in positions at JBLM that often can be challenging. Mark came from a military family. His father was in the army and suggested that Mark join the Air Force. And the rest is history. A former USAF weapons systems officer, Mark had much experience in different fields. His goal was to serve military students and make the educational opportunities "friendlier" and more available. He is super proud of the attention that Pierce College has attained through 54 years of educating....at the top 5 list of colleges and in the top 10 on the list of best colleges. The Military award for Best for Vets in the US is quite an honor. The whole idea is to address the diverse learners and help them to thrive in the world. The emphasis is to have a Plan, not an agenda! Often the students he works with are from single parent families, are the first to graduate from college, and have faced challenges not everyone does. These students are on active duty which is different than most. Some are veterans seeking a degree. They are motivated, need access to meaningful programs, need face to face time with some classes even though now 90% are online. Many students use federal aid and need assistance with English and math classes, specifically. JBLM has science classes on base at Madigan and it is really helpful. Career pathways for teachers, nurses, and doctors are all available and there is one student who is currently attending Harvard. Some students cannot complete the requirements in the usual time frame, but they are given an incomplete and are encouraged to come back without penalty and with military allowance for books and needed resources. Barlow, Mark mentioned, has supported many students in many ways. He gives of his time, and energy and encouragement. JBLM connects team members and gives human perspective so that values are shared and Service Before Self becomes the heart of the population that is served. Mark then took questions. Eric Warn mentioned that Denise Yoakum had worked hard with students at Pierce/JBLM and Dr. Michelle Johnson, the Chancellor and CEO definitely gets it about helping students succeed. Both totally appreciated their success.
Concern was raised about PTSD and veterans who are suffering. Mark mentioned that, yes, it is a definite concern but new therapies are being addressed. For instance, service animals such as horses and dogs have helped many. Medications are lower on the list than personal interactions and helping those in need find the resources that are more specific to the needs of the patient. "It's about finding the way to the resources and the accommodations that are there", said Mark. With that, the members applauded his work and his attitude toward his work. Inspiring, indeed!
President Rooks then read the raffle number and John Warner jumped up and started for the podium. Don Daniels quickly shouted that the number called was on HIS raffle ticket, not his ex-friend, John Warner's! Whew.....all over $5!! And the meeting was adjourned!
Above: Frenemies? Look at Don Daniels'face! Photo by Phil Eng.
Late Breaking News: Our investigative reporters were out in the field this weekend and uncovered a fine-worthy fact. Apparently, John Lowney won about $387 in the Putt Putt Golf Tourney at Harkness Furniture, sponsored by Tacoma South Rotary! Many LR Rotarians attended including Jim Rooks, the Merciful. The Lakewood Key staff will be disappointed if President Jim does not TTT (tithe the treasurer). Oh, also it was noted that the Rediskes topped the Lowneys in a small best-ball bet.
Till next time........................Yours truly, Mary Marlin
Making the meeting happen and helping with set-up was Leanna Christian, Rob Erb, Tom George, James Osundwa, Greg Rediske and Terry Roarke. It makes you appreciate how many energetic people it takes to make a meeting happen both in house and with zoom availability!
Tony Camoroda, our AD Governor, was welcomed by the club as well as Angela Connelly, and Mrs. Bronkema, wife of Carl, who will soon be a new member of the club! The new Puffins were asked to stand and were applauded for their energy in joining our special membership. They were: Jessica James, Dave Hall, Carl Bronkema, Rachel Mazoff, Steve Saalfeld, Connie Colman-Lacadie, Jamie Simons, Wendy McGowan, Anthony Veliz, Bob Martin and Andy Phillips. Great to have them here! Eric Warn had no Sunshine news today which sometimes is good news.
Above: Our new Sunshine Chair, Eric Warn, had nothing to say (never true). Phil Eng photo.
Announcements were then made. Bob Bruback mentioned that the Community Concerns Committee had three grant requests. The first one was for the Lakewood Art Festival. The approval of $900 to promote the arts and encourage young people to learn more about opportunities they may want to pursue to advance their own artistic passions was given by all members. Last year 1600 people attended the festival. The second request was from Hope Sparks Family Services. This organization is 125 years old and has helped families deal with behavioral and emotional issues in their families as they reach out for assistance. Note that 4000 children were helped in 2020! Instead of the $500 requested, the committee felt more was needed and doubled the request to $1000 and all members approved. The third grant request was from Making a Difference Foundation and $2000 was requested for children in need of food or school supplies. Elderly and disabled adults are also helped by this organization and have had food delivered and given assistance as needed. The Rotarians then moved and seconded the request of $2000. (Under our bylaws, donations of $2000 or more need formal member approval.)
Rose Stevens spoke about World Service organization and the work they do with young Rotarians in Nepal who are daily wage workers and how this organization works to keep them in school and have needed supplies and food. Mary Horn was given recognition for her commitment to the Paul Harris Society by (as Greg Horn says), checking the box!
It was then time for Birthdays and Anniversaries. Greg Horn and Clint Johnson were the presenters ...and outers...of both Birthdays and Anniversaries which often carry a fine....just because. Clint suggested folks mention a special Halloween costume they may have loved to wear. Bob Bruback loved his lumberjack costume because he liked to carry the ax around. Mary Horn was nine months and two weeks pregnant and could only fit in the Rainier Beer Bottle costume one year. Gotta ask her about the M and M costume she didn't want to talk about. Hmm. Birthdays noted were Gordy Quick, Mary Horn, Bob Bruback, Charlie Hyde, Tom Sadler, Barb Spriggs, and Mike Zaro. Partner birthdays were Leanna Christian’s husband Dalles Christian and Jason Whalen’s wife Gael. Members who had anniversaries in Rotary were: Dave Hall, Bob Bruback, Chuck Hellar, Rose Stevens, Ed Shannon, Duncan Cook and Bob Zawilski. Wedding anniversaries were being celebrated by Dave Reames and Barbara for 20 years and John Lowney and Pam for 22 years.
Generous Giving:
President Rooks then mentioned that he knew of several people who had been tripping.....okay, going on trips. James Osundwa and his wife enjoyed 6 days in Cabo (not to be confused as some were, with Kabul). They had great fun and had time to unplug, reset and hydrate. $50 generously donated. Rob Erb drove across the country from Minnesota to Montana with snow and checked out a Project Corvette, I believe, in Minnesota. $50 generously donated. Greg Horn was touring upstate New York with Mary and Rose Stevens. Fall foliage was great. He donated $50. Steve Saalfeld visited his daughter at Trinity University in Texas and was amazed by the new football stadium with the giant screens. His daughter loves it there too. A $25 donation was given. Sally Porter Smith announced she is putting her house in Dupont up for sale because she is moving to Seattle the first of the year. She will continue to help with the auction this coming year and will be a consultant as needed. She offered to donate $25, but Jim Rooks jumped in and said he would pay because she has given so much time and effort and help to our club. Jan Gee also matched that amount and gave kudos to Sally for all her hard work as an amazing problem solver and great leader. Bill Potter donated $20 to Nourish to help supply food to 600 families. If you are a van driver, call him. Clint Johnson has traveled up and down the west coast to see his grandkids and mentioned that he is the president of Tacoma Arts and encourages all to attend the Rialto and Pantages. He has a 20% discount if you step up soon. He also welcomed the Puffins and is excited about the Christmas Party and Puffin participation he and John Korsmo will celebrate together with them. His donation of $100 was appreciated. Mary Horn donated, I believe, $20 for her birthday, $25 for Sally, and $50 to match Greg's donation. Very generous!
OUR PROGRAM:
Above: Mark Haskins of Pierce College/JBLM. Phil Eng photo.
Barlow Buescher then introduced our speaker of the day, Mark Haskins, the Executive Director of Pierce College at JBLM. Barlow has known Mark for some time and his admiration for Mark is that he offers steady, clear leadership with both students and colleagues alike. Mark appreciated Barlow's comments and gently apologized to Rotarians because he is in Kiwanis. All is forgiven and with that he enlightened us about the work that he is doing to help students stay on the educational path while working in positions at JBLM that often can be challenging. Mark came from a military family. His father was in the army and suggested that Mark join the Air Force. And the rest is history. A former USAF weapons systems officer, Mark had much experience in different fields. His goal was to serve military students and make the educational opportunities "friendlier" and more available. He is super proud of the attention that Pierce College has attained through 54 years of educating....at the top 5 list of colleges and in the top 10 on the list of best colleges. The Military award for Best for Vets in the US is quite an honor. The whole idea is to address the diverse learners and help them to thrive in the world. The emphasis is to have a Plan, not an agenda! Often the students he works with are from single parent families, are the first to graduate from college, and have faced challenges not everyone does. These students are on active duty which is different than most. Some are veterans seeking a degree. They are motivated, need access to meaningful programs, need face to face time with some classes even though now 90% are online. Many students use federal aid and need assistance with English and math classes, specifically. JBLM has science classes on base at Madigan and it is really helpful. Career pathways for teachers, nurses, and doctors are all available and there is one student who is currently attending Harvard. Some students cannot complete the requirements in the usual time frame, but they are given an incomplete and are encouraged to come back without penalty and with military allowance for books and needed resources. Barlow, Mark mentioned, has supported many students in many ways. He gives of his time, and energy and encouragement. JBLM connects team members and gives human perspective so that values are shared and Service Before Self becomes the heart of the population that is served. Mark then took questions. Eric Warn mentioned that Denise Yoakum had worked hard with students at Pierce/JBLM and Dr. Michelle Johnson, the Chancellor and CEO definitely gets it about helping students succeed. Both totally appreciated their success.
Concern was raised about PTSD and veterans who are suffering. Mark mentioned that, yes, it is a definite concern but new therapies are being addressed. For instance, service animals such as horses and dogs have helped many. Medications are lower on the list than personal interactions and helping those in need find the resources that are more specific to the needs of the patient. "It's about finding the way to the resources and the accommodations that are there", said Mark. With that, the members applauded his work and his attitude toward his work. Inspiring, indeed!
President Rooks then read the raffle number and John Warner jumped up and started for the podium. Don Daniels quickly shouted that the number called was on HIS raffle ticket, not his ex-friend, John Warner's! Whew.....all over $5!! And the meeting was adjourned!
Above: Frenemies? Look at Don Daniels'face! Photo by Phil Eng.
Late Breaking News: Our investigative reporters were out in the field this weekend and uncovered a fine-worthy fact. Apparently, John Lowney won about $387 in the Putt Putt Golf Tourney at Harkness Furniture, sponsored by Tacoma South Rotary! Many LR Rotarians attended including Jim Rooks, the Merciful. The Lakewood Key staff will be disappointed if President Jim does not TTT (tithe the treasurer). Oh, also it was noted that the Rediskes topped the Lowneys in a small best-ball bet.
Till next time........................Yours truly, Mary Marlin
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Extra Edition: Grants and Puffins
Sunday, October 24, 2021 By: Joseph F. Quinn
Extra, Late-Breaking News from Rose Stevens:District Grant Project Approval: Bringing Underprivileged Students Back to School, Who are at Risk of Dropping Out.
Total Project Cost $9,000. Lakewood Rotary approved $3,000. District match:$3,000. RC Kathmandu Heights will contribute $3,000.
1,000 Nepali children will be impacted by this project. The Nepali Rotarians will contact local schools, PTA's and local governments to identify the children at risk. The Rotarians will meet with the families and discuss the importance of school attendance, advocating for the children to return to school. School uniforms and books, book bags and supplies will be provided to the student.
RC Kathmandu Heights is comprised of experienced, energetic young Rotarians ages 35-45. We partnered with this club last year for our multi-district, multi-club and multi-country project, providing 100,000 meals for the daily wage workers impacted by the Covid -19 shutdowns.
Charter President of RC Kathmandu Heights, Samir Nepal, is our contact for this project.
We Love Our Puffins, by Greg Rediske, so here is the history:
[Reprinted with permission; this article appeared in District 5020 newsletter]
Above: We love our Puffins!
According to Rotary International (5 Things I Wish All Rotarians Knew), most attrition casualties have been members less than 1, 2, or 3 years duration. Another statistic from Rotary showed 26% with a membership of less than four years will leave their Rotary Club. In case you were wondering: this is not good.
This problem was not and is not unnoticed at Lakewood Rotary.
Action on this subject first started for us in 1977.
At a Fireside meeting one evening, when some new members and spouses were being educated about the requirements of Lakewood Rotary, President- Elect Mel Neighbors, sat and talked with Auggie Meier, Jim Rediske, Mac McGreevy, and Harry Mansfield, all long-time members of the Club. The perpetual discussion of mentoring to these new members was argued and dismissed as ineffectual to date. It was decided to make new Rotarians a Pledge Class for one year. A few days later, Mel was looking at a book that described the Northwest coast dwelling puffins. Puffins are seabirds, described as clinging to rocks with their fellow puffins for survival.
This seemed a perfect analogy to Mel for new Rotarians, and the name for the Pledge Class was born: they would be Puffins. Duties for the Puffins included handling the food basket project, attending a minimum number of social events, taking attendance, and most notably, putting on the annual roast of the sitting president at the last meeting in December.
Today, the Rotary Puffins are also responsible for the caring and “feeding” of a plush puffin doll. Upon induction, the current puffin-bearer is delighted to pass it along to the next new member. It hasn’t always been pretty: some of the Puffins have been lost, and some were forced to wear unusual clothing and jewelry by their caretakers. One even traveled to Iceland.
Mentoring? Yes, we still do it. In my 39 years in the Club, the mentoring program is what you might call “better than nothing.” And we have high hopes with our newest mentor chairperson. But for our Club, the Puffin program has succeeded better than anything else we have done. It does create some confused looks when we talk to other clubs about so and so, one of our Puffins…..we forget the rest of you don’t know what the heck we’re talking about!
[Reprinted with permission; this article appeared in District 5020 newsletter]
Above: We love our Puffins!
According to Rotary International (5 Things I Wish All Rotarians Knew), most attrition casualties have been members less than 1, 2, or 3 years duration. Another statistic from Rotary showed 26% with a membership of less than four years will leave their Rotary Club. In case you were wondering: this is not good.
This problem was not and is not unnoticed at Lakewood Rotary.
Action on this subject first started for us in 1977.
At a Fireside meeting one evening, when some new members and spouses were being educated about the requirements of Lakewood Rotary, President- Elect Mel Neighbors, sat and talked with Auggie Meier, Jim Rediske, Mac McGreevy, and Harry Mansfield, all long-time members of the Club. The perpetual discussion of mentoring to these new members was argued and dismissed as ineffectual to date. It was decided to make new Rotarians a Pledge Class for one year. A few days later, Mel was looking at a book that described the Northwest coast dwelling puffins. Puffins are seabirds, described as clinging to rocks with their fellow puffins for survival.
This seemed a perfect analogy to Mel for new Rotarians, and the name for the Pledge Class was born: they would be Puffins. Duties for the Puffins included handling the food basket project, attending a minimum number of social events, taking attendance, and most notably, putting on the annual roast of the sitting president at the last meeting in December.
Today, the Rotary Puffins are also responsible for the caring and “feeding” of a plush puffin doll. Upon induction, the current puffin-bearer is delighted to pass it along to the next new member. It hasn’t always been pretty: some of the Puffins have been lost, and some were forced to wear unusual clothing and jewelry by their caretakers. One even traveled to Iceland.
Mentoring? Yes, we still do it. In my 39 years in the Club, the mentoring program is what you might call “better than nothing.” And we have high hopes with our newest mentor chairperson. But for our Club, the Puffin program has succeeded better than anything else we have done. It does create some confused looks when we talk to other clubs about so and so, one of our Puffins…..we forget the rest of you don’t know what the heck we’re talking about!
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Lakewood Rotary Autumn Recipes
Sunday, October 17, 2021 By: John W. Magnuson
The LR Autumn Recipe Book… and Activity GuideTHE LAKEWOOD KEY
October 15, 2021
Killing two birds with one stone (that’s a figure of speech, not sporting advice) go to an apple squeeze. Many small communities support food banks with such efforts in addition to providing delicious beverages for the folks providing fruit. Attending the Whidbey Island Apple/Pear Squeeze in Coupeville yielded many gallons of sweet autumn nectar and new friendships. Steilacoom’s is cancelled this year but by reaching out to more rural communities you may find a gem.
President Jim Rooks, all nervous about the tenor of today’s meeting, opened the festivities and introduced Andrew Kruse and Charlene Miseli for the Pledge and Invocation in that order. Charlene was in Texas, but you’d never have known it. Furthermore, the invocation came from West Point on the Hudson River where her children attend the USMA. How’s that: from Lakewood to Texas to New York all in one doodad.
Meeting coordination essentials were provided by the unerring Leanna Christian, Rob Erb, Tom George, Terry Roarke, and Greg Rediske – absent was James Osundwa who is visiting Mexico. John Lowney is all about the money involved with this club – most ably one might say. Ole is writing this and Phil Eng is photographer. The Foundation Desk was handled by Captain Gary Fulton and Terry Roarke acted as Sgt. at Arms.
For a fall treat, checkout a recipe for pumpkin muffins glazed with maple syrup. Imagine yourself in the New Hampshire countryside enjoying a steaming cup of spiced cider from that apple squeeze and munching on that syrup-doused pumpkin muffin. Oh boy, can’t you just imagine that cinnamon spicy aroma? It may be a little chilly out but that flannel shirt from LL Bean is paying dividends. Relax, lean back in that Adirondack chair and watch the leaves drift in the breeze.
We apparently didn’t have any visiting Rotarians but Joe Quinn introduced Kris, his wife of several years. Okay, several, several years! President Jim recognized the fall harvest of Puffins: Jessica James, Dave Hall, Carl Bronkema, Rachel Mazoff, Steve Saalfeld, Jamie Simons, James Oswunda, Wendy McGowan, Connie Coleman-Lacadie, Anthony Veliz, Bob Martin and Andy Phillips.
Above: We love our Puffins
Photo by Greg Rediske
Above: Because they are so cute
File Photo
Eric Warn made a sunshine report without a microphone; I think he said we are all well, physically but maybe not mentally. Really. He said that. Out loud.
Along the lines of autumn activity, go for a walk in the countryside with your best friend. Kick the piles of fallen leaves and smile at him or her enigmatically until they ask what is up your sleeve. Tell them boldly why you consider them your friend and how you hope that friendship never fades but remains ever so vibrant as the leaves upon which you tread.
Stephanie Wilcox announced The Partners Christmas Party to be held at TCGC December 3 at 6:00 PM. Please RSVP in a timely manner so the club can properly prepare. A brief video regarding Ambassadorial Scholarships featured present students studying abroad for Masters and Doctoral programs that are aligned with Rotary’s broad objectives. American and Canadian students are benefitting from these Paul Harris Foundation programs. If you know of someone you feel is worthy of such a generous effort, contact President Jim.
The Tacoma Muslim Mosque was “torched” recently and sustained severe damage. An anonymous gift of $2500 was made by a Lakewood Rotarian for renovation efforts. President Rooks pledged $100 for the effort and was immediately “piled-on” by others. The referee had to throw a flag, blow a whistle and stop the game while they reviewed the matter upstairs. It turns out there was “no foul,” no yardage penalized but the money is still being counted! Treasurer John Lowney has created a portal on the website for easy giving to support the rebuilding effort.
Get that big soup kettle out of the cupboard, some carrots, onions and celery, spices, stock and magic potion for mirepoix. Cook that up slooowwwlly while you empty your victory garden of other veggies. Failing that, go to Villa Thriftco and load up on savory and sweet ingredients. Dare yourself to not rely on a recipe, cookbook, TV show or Alexa. Make it up! Cook it up! Be bold! Be fearless! Let it simmer. Put a chicken in or put a duck in or put a turkey in - you get the idea. You’ll know its ready when the aroma drives you wild! Put some croutons atop, sprinkle some cheese, ladle it out, pour some of that spiced cider and let your taste buds rejoice in autumn!
Tacoma South Rotary Annual Putt-putt golf event at Harkness Furniture is coming up next Friday night – see Jim. Our President collected some generous giving, but there was not much to confess. Rick Selden confessed that he played golf at the Teddy Roosevelt Bully Pulpit Golf Course and presented President Jim with a floating golf ball as he already paid a fine last week. Jim Sharp paid $50 for a second grandchild and then offered up $50 for something else but we missed it.
Above: The floating golf ball stall
President Jim then bravely and boldly asked for the submission of jokes. Various Past Presidents in the audience shuddered in fear, knowing that being careful about what you ask for, you just…. You know how that old saw ends. First Tom George’s wife…. Well, I won’t go there. Then Dr. Peter Marsh told the story about a …. Well, I won’t go there either although he used mostly correct English in the story; there was that dangling participle. Joe Quinn does not know how to tell a joke so he told a story about…never mind. We killed some time.
Go to the woods with an ax. Chop down a tree and cut it up into firewood lengths – be generous here. Chop some kindling wood with some oozing sap so it crackles loudly, build a roaring fire. Pour large mugs of that apple cider and spike it with some AppleJack and a cinnamon stick. Grab that chair, wrap yourself and your someone special in a large warm woolen blanket, and tell Alexa to play Arlo Guthrie’s Alice’s Restaurant. Enjoy!
Fines/Generous Giving:
Rick Selden confessed that he played golf at the Teddy Roosevelt Bully Pulpit Golf Course and presented President Jim with a floating golf ball. Jim Sharp paid $50 for a second grandchild and then offered up $50 for something else
The Program:
Above: Our Presenter – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland
Jan Gee introduced Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland from the 10th Congressional District encompassing Olympia to east Tacoma. A former (2 terms) Tacoma Mayor, she also served as Director of the Greater Seattle Chamber of Commerce. She highlighted several efforts in Congress that are her pet projects.
Congresswoman Strickland fielded some questions then departed and left her assistant to attempt the answers to further questioning.
Great Britain’s violence appears to be worse than America’s. A British Lawmaker of many years experience was meeting with constituents today and was violently stabbed to death. That is no joke, by the way, but a true and very sad story. In Washington DC, a Capital Policeman was assaulted by a woman carrying a baseball bat but she only managed to bite the officer. What is this world coming to?
Start a Garage Band. Call Chris Kimball for percussion, Greg Rediske on Melodeon, Morris Northcutt on Kazoo. Then roundup a banjo picker, mandolin player, some vocalists and start making music. Go to Carnegie Hall. Practice, practice, practice.
Ed Shannon won $5. Only about five white chips left so come try your luck.
Who Reads This Stuff,
Ole
For a fall treat, checkout a recipe for pumpkin muffins glazed with maple syrup. Imagine yourself in the New Hampshire countryside enjoying a steaming cup of spiced cider from that apple squeeze and munching on that syrup-doused pumpkin muffin. Oh boy, can’t you just imagine that cinnamon spicy aroma? It may be a little chilly out but that flannel shirt from LL Bean is paying dividends. Relax, lean back in that Adirondack chair and watch the leaves drift in the breeze.
We apparently didn’t have any visiting Rotarians but Joe Quinn introduced Kris, his wife of several years. Okay, several, several years! President Jim recognized the fall harvest of Puffins: Jessica James, Dave Hall, Carl Bronkema, Rachel Mazoff, Steve Saalfeld, Jamie Simons, James Oswunda, Wendy McGowan, Connie Coleman-Lacadie, Anthony Veliz, Bob Martin and Andy Phillips.
Above: We love our Puffins
Photo by Greg Rediske
Above: Because they are so cute
File Photo
Eric Warn made a sunshine report without a microphone; I think he said we are all well, physically but maybe not mentally. Really. He said that. Out loud.
Along the lines of autumn activity, go for a walk in the countryside with your best friend. Kick the piles of fallen leaves and smile at him or her enigmatically until they ask what is up your sleeve. Tell them boldly why you consider them your friend and how you hope that friendship never fades but remains ever so vibrant as the leaves upon which you tread.
Stephanie Wilcox announced The Partners Christmas Party to be held at TCGC December 3 at 6:00 PM. Please RSVP in a timely manner so the club can properly prepare. A brief video regarding Ambassadorial Scholarships featured present students studying abroad for Masters and Doctoral programs that are aligned with Rotary’s broad objectives. American and Canadian students are benefitting from these Paul Harris Foundation programs. If you know of someone you feel is worthy of such a generous effort, contact President Jim.
The Tacoma Muslim Mosque was “torched” recently and sustained severe damage. An anonymous gift of $2500 was made by a Lakewood Rotarian for renovation efforts. President Rooks pledged $100 for the effort and was immediately “piled-on” by others. The referee had to throw a flag, blow a whistle and stop the game while they reviewed the matter upstairs. It turns out there was “no foul,” no yardage penalized but the money is still being counted! Treasurer John Lowney has created a portal on the website for easy giving to support the rebuilding effort.
Get that big soup kettle out of the cupboard, some carrots, onions and celery, spices, stock and magic potion for mirepoix. Cook that up slooowwwlly while you empty your victory garden of other veggies. Failing that, go to Villa Thriftco and load up on savory and sweet ingredients. Dare yourself to not rely on a recipe, cookbook, TV show or Alexa. Make it up! Cook it up! Be bold! Be fearless! Let it simmer. Put a chicken in or put a duck in or put a turkey in - you get the idea. You’ll know its ready when the aroma drives you wild! Put some croutons atop, sprinkle some cheese, ladle it out, pour some of that spiced cider and let your taste buds rejoice in autumn!
Tacoma South Rotary Annual Putt-putt golf event at Harkness Furniture is coming up next Friday night – see Jim. Our President collected some generous giving, but there was not much to confess. Rick Selden confessed that he played golf at the Teddy Roosevelt Bully Pulpit Golf Course and presented President Jim with a floating golf ball as he already paid a fine last week. Jim Sharp paid $50 for a second grandchild and then offered up $50 for something else but we missed it.
Above: The floating golf ball stall
President Jim then bravely and boldly asked for the submission of jokes. Various Past Presidents in the audience shuddered in fear, knowing that being careful about what you ask for, you just…. You know how that old saw ends. First Tom George’s wife…. Well, I won’t go there. Then Dr. Peter Marsh told the story about a …. Well, I won’t go there either although he used mostly correct English in the story; there was that dangling participle. Joe Quinn does not know how to tell a joke so he told a story about…never mind. We killed some time.
Go to the woods with an ax. Chop down a tree and cut it up into firewood lengths – be generous here. Chop some kindling wood with some oozing sap so it crackles loudly, build a roaring fire. Pour large mugs of that apple cider and spike it with some AppleJack and a cinnamon stick. Grab that chair, wrap yourself and your someone special in a large warm woolen blanket, and tell Alexa to play Arlo Guthrie’s Alice’s Restaurant. Enjoy!
Fines/Generous Giving:
Rick Selden confessed that he played golf at the Teddy Roosevelt Bully Pulpit Golf Course and presented President Jim with a floating golf ball. Jim Sharp paid $50 for a second grandchild and then offered up $50 for something else
The Program:
Above: Our Presenter – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland
Jan Gee introduced Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland from the 10th Congressional District encompassing Olympia to east Tacoma. A former (2 terms) Tacoma Mayor, she also served as Director of the Greater Seattle Chamber of Commerce. She highlighted several efforts in Congress that are her pet projects.
- Children are hurting from the pandemic and having been shut out of schooling. Returning to schools has not been easy for them.
- She is on the House Armed Services Committee and works on JBLM and Veterans issues.
- She works on transportation and infrastructure matters and has been dealing with a bipartisan infrastructure bill and the Build Back Better bill – supporting both.
- She works on legislation involving a foster youth opioid parental crisis.
- Another area of effort is building housing near transit centers.
- Child Tax Credit plan gets her attention as well.
Congresswoman Strickland fielded some questions then departed and left her assistant to attempt the answers to further questioning.
Great Britain’s violence appears to be worse than America’s. A British Lawmaker of many years experience was meeting with constituents today and was violently stabbed to death. That is no joke, by the way, but a true and very sad story. In Washington DC, a Capital Policeman was assaulted by a woman carrying a baseball bat but she only managed to bite the officer. What is this world coming to?
Start a Garage Band. Call Chris Kimball for percussion, Greg Rediske on Melodeon, Morris Northcutt on Kazoo. Then roundup a banjo picker, mandolin player, some vocalists and start making music. Go to Carnegie Hall. Practice, practice, practice.
Ed Shannon won $5. Only about five white chips left so come try your luck.
Who Reads This Stuff,
Ole
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On this Day in History
Sunday, October 10, 2021 By: Donn Irwin
District 5020 Governor Visit for 2021The Lakewood Key
It all began with the ringing of the bell by President Jim at 12:31 PM.
Then it got different. Traditionally, the Club would honor the visiting District Governor (DG) from Canada with a rousing “O Canada” ……...not this time. Immediate Past DG (our very own Greg Horn) arranged for a wonderful ditty praising our northern neighbors’ wonderful traits. It was fun. It was humorous and it was taken in stride by our honored guest.
President Jim Rooks bypassed the pledge and went right to the invocation. Said words were delivered by Past President Scott Buser.
On this day in history:…1480 - Great Stand on the Ugra river: Standoff between forces of Akhmat Khan, Khan of the Great Horde and Ivan III, Grand Prince of all Russia, ends with a Tatar-Mongol retreat, leading to the disintegration of the Horde.
Making the Meeting happen today: In Person/Zoom Hybrid- Meeting set-up: Leanna Christian (Past President Gayle Selden was in the house doing the job today), Rob Erb, Tom George, Terry Roarke, Greg Rediske, James Osundwa.
Recording of fines: John Lowney
Bulletin Writer: Donn Irwin; Bulletin Photographer: Walt Richardson
$2.00 Desk and Sgt at Arms: Chuck Hellar
Foundation Desk: Bud Montgomery
Visiting Rotarians: District Governor (DG) Lorna Curtis, Assistant Governor (AG)Tony Camoroda.
Guests of Rotarians: Wendy McGowan introduced her daughter, Megan. Carl Bronkema introduced his wife Veronica. Shiru Osundwa was a guest on Zoom.
Above: Andy Phillips, Photo by Walt Richardson
Andy then gave us a thumbnail sketch of his life, which included his being born in Boston and raised in the area. He lived on the East coast for most of his early life. He has a Masters degree and is married to Donna. He served as an officer in the US Public Health Service and has been an administrator for the developmentally disabled. Andy has been a Rotarian before – for about 30 years. He plays basketball about 3 times a week, tennis 5 times a week and jogs in his spare time. He enjoys traveling and reading and expects to be a very active Rotarian. (Note: This writer tried to get everything down correctly but may have inadvertently missed some things. Please feel free to check with either Andy or Donna to confirm the accuracy of the above information and/or to fill out the details).
1945 – The microwave oven is patented by US inventor Percy Spencer
The Puffins in attendance that I saw were: Carl Bronkema (he who ran up to the dais to gladly pass his stuffed Puffin along to newbie Andy), Bob Martin, Wendy McGowan, James Osundwa and, of course, Andy Phillips. Puffins zooming in: Connie Coleman-Lacadie and Steve Saalfeld.
Sunshine: Donnnnnnn Irwin (yes me) was back at a meeting, live and in person. Bob Zawilski reported that his wife, Marilyn, was out of surgery and is doing fine.
1956 – Yankees pitcher Don Larsen throws a perfect game against the Brooklyn Dodgers.
1957 – Brooklyn Dodgers announce move to Los Angeles (no connection between these two events?)
Announcements: Sally Porter Smith made two announcements: Help for Afghan refugee families and Community Veterans. Bill Potter asked for help with Hudtloff Middle School Cross Country. See the end of this bulletin for details, thanks to Sally and Bill.
Fines and Generous Giving: Bud Montgomery paid money for the privilege of taking his grandson fishing on the Puyallup. His grandson caught 3 pinks. Donnnnnnn Irwin (me again) paid money for being happy to be back amongst all of you, a birthday, and anniversary and the birth of a great grandchild – great granddaughter Drew Ivy. Mary Marlin paid money to thank Rob Erb for giving up his time share at the coast for the auction – she had a great time using it. Troy Wilcox, also happy to be back amongst us after a very hectic opening of the new Emerald Queen Casino, paid up for a vacation in the Dominican Republic.
Above: Bud Montgomery’s proud grandson; Photo credit to Greg Rediske
1944 – The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet debut on CBS Radio.
The Program:
Assistant Governor Tony Camoroda introduced our speaker, District Governor Lorna Curtis.
DG Curtis has been a Rotarian since 1997. Her education is in Public Administration.
DG Lorna recognized past DGs Greg (and Mary) Horn as well as Gordy Quick. She also mentioned that she loves the little food pantries.
The DG confessed that the best part of being DG is the club visits. Conversely, worst part of being the DG is… the club visits.
She challenged us by asking us to ask the questions: On the Rotary road are you a driver, a passenger or a navigator? Or are you a RINO – Rotarian in name only? Are you a Rotarian or just a member of a Rotary Club?
DG Lorna doesn’t want us to go back to the way it was before the pandemic hit but rather that we experience the new that has come out of all that has happened. She believes that Rotary needs to be more inclusive.
Her first Rotary meeting happened when she was 41 years old and she was nervous. After looking around she decided that by joining the Rotary Club she could lower the average age to 75. She found that Rotarians were friendly, caring and that they followed up with her. She didn’t have money (single mom raising several kids) but she offered time and work talent. Within 5 years she became Club President. The Club gave her her first Paul Harris.
This segued nicely into a promotion for the Paul Harris Foundation and becoming a major donor which led into a plug for the next District Conference to be held in……Victoria BC.
We are 8 months without a case of wild polio anywhere in the world!!!
DG Lorna then told a story of 10 Rotary clubs getting together to raise money for “a project”. The fact that they didn’t have “a project” yet didn’t stop them. They raised a bunch of money and then decided to gather food from local sources that was about to be sent to the landfill (blemished fruit, about-to-expire packaged goods, etc.), clean up the gleaned goods and redistribute the food to the food insecure. Today thousands of pounds of food have been consumed by people that need it rather than the landfills being enlarged.
In closing, District Governor Curtis encouraged us to: bring in a new member, participate in a fundraiser and attend a Rotary social event.
Above: Our 2021-2022 DG, Lorna Curtis; Photo by Walt Richardson
Sigourney Weaver, Matt Damon and Chevy Chase were all born on October 8th.
President Rooks rang the bell at 1:20 p.m. to close the meeting. Jim Sharp won the right to draw for a red chip worth over $600.00. He drew a white chip worth $5.00.
Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland—former Mayor of Tacoma-- is next week’s speaker.
And one for Ole: 1901 - Eivind Groven Norwegian composer and ethnomusicologist born in Eidsborg Norway.
Important messages from Sally Porter Smith and Bill Potter:
1. Event: Community Veterans Stand Down / Job Fair / Supply Drop
Date: November 13-14, 2021
Location: The Greater Tacoma Convention Center
1500 Commerce St, Tacoma, WA 98402
Time: 9:00AM - 3:00 PM
What is a Community VETERANS STAND DOWN?
Stand Down is military terminology referring to the brief period of time a service member leaves an active combat area in order to rest and regain strength. This event offers Veterans who are homeless or at risk for homelessness a chance to rest from the weariness of life’s challenges they face daily.
This is an opportunity for the residents and business owners of Pierce County to take a positive proactive approach towards creating a community that fosters prosperity, over poverty by offering a “hand up, not hand out” philosophy. Patriotism without Politics, just direct results.
Free clothing and equipment will be distributed to unhoused veterans, Free flu and COVID-19 vaccinations will also be available along with the following services and resources.
Contact for more info:
Liam Riley
American Military Families Action Network
Direct: 253-988-2976
liam@usavet.org
WWW.USAVET.ORG
2. Update on Afghan Refugee Settlement programs:
Received an email from Twin Cities Rotary Club, Chehalis. They are interested in partnering with other Rotary Clubs to support the relocation of Afghan Refugees.
Washington state is expecting to receive more than 1,600 Afghan evacuees from a group of nearly 37,000 settling across the United States, according to the State Department. The evacuees are coming to seven cities in the state, according to information sent Wednesday to Gov. Jay Inslee's office. (TNT)
Here’s how many evacuees are coming to each of the seven cities:
Kent: 600 Greater Seattle: 575 Spokane: 300 Auburn: 105 Vancouver: 49 Richland: 40
Tacoma: 10
Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services
Current requests: LIRS has some city-specific requests but Tacoma is not listed. In general, their priorities are for housing and financial donations
https://www.lirs.org/
Desperate need: FOSTER AFGHAN REFUGEE CHILDREN
Foster families are urgently needed to support the increase of unaccompanied migrant children coming to the United States, including those from Afghanistan. We ask that you and your family consider this opportunity to serve and help migrant children in need of a loving home.
From Past President Bill Potter:
Rotarians, please see the note below regarding a request for volunteers to serve as course marshals at cross country events for the next several weeks, at Ft. Steilacoom. Note that Brandi has also offered to have her team volunteer for work parties at the Western Washington Wildlife Refuge. For more information or to sign up, please feel free to contact Brandi directly at her email (below).
I am the cross-country coach at Hudtloff Middle School and we would love to chat about a few things and what we could help with. I also wanted to ask about the possibility of Rotary having volunteers that may be able to help us with our Middle school cross country meets at Fort Steilacoom Park. We have meets for 7 teams every Friday until November 5th beginning at 3:45 and finishing around 4:45. I am the sole meet host every week and am always hunting for reliable volunteers to serve as course marshals to ensure the safety of our athletes and youth. We have an amazing program and would love to find out if there are any people or groups that may be able to help us out.
-Brandi R Swortz ( FLOSSFAIRY@COMCAST.NET )
Making the Meeting happen today: In Person/Zoom Hybrid- Meeting set-up: Leanna Christian (Past President Gayle Selden was in the house doing the job today), Rob Erb, Tom George, Terry Roarke, Greg Rediske, James Osundwa.
Recording of fines: John Lowney
Bulletin Writer: Donn Irwin; Bulletin Photographer: Walt Richardson
$2.00 Desk and Sgt at Arms: Chuck Hellar
Foundation Desk: Bud Montgomery
Visiting Rotarians: District Governor (DG) Lorna Curtis, Assistant Governor (AG)Tony Camoroda.
Guests of Rotarians: Wendy McGowan introduced her daughter, Megan. Carl Bronkema introduced his wife Veronica. Shiru Osundwa was a guest on Zoom.
1769 Captain James Cook lands in New Zealand at Poverty Bay on the East Coast of the North Island
Foundation giving this week was $280.00. Nice work.
1908 – Paul Van Buskirk Yoder – a composer was born in Tacoma WA. (Died 1990)
A special event for a new member happened right before our eyes. President Jim turned the duty and the honor of introducing a new member over to (DG) Lorna. The DG handled the job of inducting new member Andy Phillips (husband of member Donna) with aplomb. President Jim then regained the mic and gave Andy all of the info he needs to know to be a member of Lakewood Rotary along with an invoice for membership dues.Foundation giving this week was $280.00. Nice work.
1908 – Paul Van Buskirk Yoder – a composer was born in Tacoma WA. (Died 1990)
Above: Andy Phillips, Photo by Walt Richardson
Andy then gave us a thumbnail sketch of his life, which included his being born in Boston and raised in the area. He lived on the East coast for most of his early life. He has a Masters degree and is married to Donna. He served as an officer in the US Public Health Service and has been an administrator for the developmentally disabled. Andy has been a Rotarian before – for about 30 years. He plays basketball about 3 times a week, tennis 5 times a week and jogs in his spare time. He enjoys traveling and reading and expects to be a very active Rotarian. (Note: This writer tried to get everything down correctly but may have inadvertently missed some things. Please feel free to check with either Andy or Donna to confirm the accuracy of the above information and/or to fill out the details).
1945 – The microwave oven is patented by US inventor Percy Spencer
The Puffins in attendance that I saw were: Carl Bronkema (he who ran up to the dais to gladly pass his stuffed Puffin along to newbie Andy), Bob Martin, Wendy McGowan, James Osundwa and, of course, Andy Phillips. Puffins zooming in: Connie Coleman-Lacadie and Steve Saalfeld.
Sunshine: Donnnnnnn Irwin (yes me) was back at a meeting, live and in person. Bob Zawilski reported that his wife, Marilyn, was out of surgery and is doing fine.
1956 – Yankees pitcher Don Larsen throws a perfect game against the Brooklyn Dodgers.
1957 – Brooklyn Dodgers announce move to Los Angeles (no connection between these two events?)
Announcements: Sally Porter Smith made two announcements: Help for Afghan refugee families and Community Veterans. Bill Potter asked for help with Hudtloff Middle School Cross Country. See the end of this bulletin for details, thanks to Sally and Bill.
Fines and Generous Giving: Bud Montgomery paid money for the privilege of taking his grandson fishing on the Puyallup. His grandson caught 3 pinks. Donnnnnnn Irwin (me again) paid money for being happy to be back amongst all of you, a birthday, and anniversary and the birth of a great grandchild – great granddaughter Drew Ivy. Mary Marlin paid money to thank Rob Erb for giving up his time share at the coast for the auction – she had a great time using it. Troy Wilcox, also happy to be back amongst us after a very hectic opening of the new Emerald Queen Casino, paid up for a vacation in the Dominican Republic.
Above: Bud Montgomery’s proud grandson; Photo credit to Greg Rediske
1944 – The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet debut on CBS Radio.
The Program:
Assistant Governor Tony Camoroda introduced our speaker, District Governor Lorna Curtis.
DG Curtis has been a Rotarian since 1997. Her education is in Public Administration.
DG Lorna recognized past DGs Greg (and Mary) Horn as well as Gordy Quick. She also mentioned that she loves the little food pantries.
The DG confessed that the best part of being DG is the club visits. Conversely, worst part of being the DG is… the club visits.
She challenged us by asking us to ask the questions: On the Rotary road are you a driver, a passenger or a navigator? Or are you a RINO – Rotarian in name only? Are you a Rotarian or just a member of a Rotary Club?
DG Lorna doesn’t want us to go back to the way it was before the pandemic hit but rather that we experience the new that has come out of all that has happened. She believes that Rotary needs to be more inclusive.
Her first Rotary meeting happened when she was 41 years old and she was nervous. After looking around she decided that by joining the Rotary Club she could lower the average age to 75. She found that Rotarians were friendly, caring and that they followed up with her. She didn’t have money (single mom raising several kids) but she offered time and work talent. Within 5 years she became Club President. The Club gave her her first Paul Harris.
This segued nicely into a promotion for the Paul Harris Foundation and becoming a major donor which led into a plug for the next District Conference to be held in……Victoria BC.
We are 8 months without a case of wild polio anywhere in the world!!!
DG Lorna then told a story of 10 Rotary clubs getting together to raise money for “a project”. The fact that they didn’t have “a project” yet didn’t stop them. They raised a bunch of money and then decided to gather food from local sources that was about to be sent to the landfill (blemished fruit, about-to-expire packaged goods, etc.), clean up the gleaned goods and redistribute the food to the food insecure. Today thousands of pounds of food have been consumed by people that need it rather than the landfills being enlarged.
In closing, District Governor Curtis encouraged us to: bring in a new member, participate in a fundraiser and attend a Rotary social event.
Above: Our 2021-2022 DG, Lorna Curtis; Photo by Walt Richardson
Sigourney Weaver, Matt Damon and Chevy Chase were all born on October 8th.
President Rooks rang the bell at 1:20 p.m. to close the meeting. Jim Sharp won the right to draw for a red chip worth over $600.00. He drew a white chip worth $5.00.
Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland—former Mayor of Tacoma-- is next week’s speaker.
And one for Ole: 1901 - Eivind Groven Norwegian composer and ethnomusicologist born in Eidsborg Norway.
Important messages from Sally Porter Smith and Bill Potter:
1. Event: Community Veterans Stand Down / Job Fair / Supply Drop
Date: November 13-14, 2021
Location: The Greater Tacoma Convention Center
1500 Commerce St, Tacoma, WA 98402
Time: 9:00AM - 3:00 PM
What is a Community VETERANS STAND DOWN?
Stand Down is military terminology referring to the brief period of time a service member leaves an active combat area in order to rest and regain strength. This event offers Veterans who are homeless or at risk for homelessness a chance to rest from the weariness of life’s challenges they face daily.
This is an opportunity for the residents and business owners of Pierce County to take a positive proactive approach towards creating a community that fosters prosperity, over poverty by offering a “hand up, not hand out” philosophy. Patriotism without Politics, just direct results.
Free clothing and equipment will be distributed to unhoused veterans, Free flu and COVID-19 vaccinations will also be available along with the following services and resources.
- Clothing
- Shelter/Housing Information
- Information for the Disabled
- Medical Screenings
- Mental Health Screenings
- Legal Services
- COVID-19 Vaccinations
- Certification of Eligibility
- VA Claims & Benefit Information
- Substance Abuse Treatment Info
- HIV/AIDS Information
- SNAP (Food Stamps) Information
- Help with DD214
- Services for Women Veterans
- Survival Benefits
- Duffle Bags (for those that qualify)
Contact for more info:
Liam Riley
American Military Families Action Network
Direct: 253-988-2976
liam@usavet.org
WWW.USAVET.ORG
2. Update on Afghan Refugee Settlement programs:
Received an email from Twin Cities Rotary Club, Chehalis. They are interested in partnering with other Rotary Clubs to support the relocation of Afghan Refugees.
Washington state is expecting to receive more than 1,600 Afghan evacuees from a group of nearly 37,000 settling across the United States, according to the State Department. The evacuees are coming to seven cities in the state, according to information sent Wednesday to Gov. Jay Inslee's office. (TNT)
Here’s how many evacuees are coming to each of the seven cities:
Kent: 600 Greater Seattle: 575 Spokane: 300 Auburn: 105 Vancouver: 49 Richland: 40
Tacoma: 10
Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services
Current requests: LIRS has some city-specific requests but Tacoma is not listed. In general, their priorities are for housing and financial donations
https://www.lirs.org/
Desperate need: FOSTER AFGHAN REFUGEE CHILDREN
Foster families are urgently needed to support the increase of unaccompanied migrant children coming to the United States, including those from Afghanistan. We ask that you and your family consider this opportunity to serve and help migrant children in need of a loving home.
From Past President Bill Potter:
Rotarians, please see the note below regarding a request for volunteers to serve as course marshals at cross country events for the next several weeks, at Ft. Steilacoom. Note that Brandi has also offered to have her team volunteer for work parties at the Western Washington Wildlife Refuge. For more information or to sign up, please feel free to contact Brandi directly at her email (below).
I am the cross-country coach at Hudtloff Middle School and we would love to chat about a few things and what we could help with. I also wanted to ask about the possibility of Rotary having volunteers that may be able to help us with our Middle school cross country meets at Fort Steilacoom Park. We have meets for 7 teams every Friday until November 5th beginning at 3:45 and finishing around 4:45. I am the sole meet host every week and am always hunting for reliable volunteers to serve as course marshals to ensure the safety of our athletes and youth. We have an amazing program and would love to find out if there are any people or groups that may be able to help us out.
-Brandi R Swortz ( FLOSSFAIRY@COMCAST.NET )
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Leadership in Crisis
Sunday, October 3, 2021 By: Gregory J. Rediske
Leading Through Crisis, by Greg RediskeTHE LAKEWOOD KEY
Today, October 1, 2021, is World Vegetarian Day. No one cares, I suspect. But what does matter is that tomorrow is the end of Oktoberfest in Munich. Now that is sad. More U.S. Presidents were born in October than any other month. But why is October the 10th month of the year, when it originates from the Latin “octo”, referring to the number 8? Well, we’re glad you asked. Once the Roman calendar moved into the Gregorian model, the year actually lengthened. Which brings us right to me, Gregory the bulletin writer. (The preceding volume of factual stuff was inspired by the incomparable Donn Irwin, who insists on educating Lakewood Rotarians whether they want to be smart or not. So there, Donn…..and also, get your ticker ticking properly again, please.)
Above: Donn Irwin, a mask wearer before its time
Lakewoood Key file photo for Member Spotlight
Clang, clang went the bell at 12:30 p.m. on the first Friday in October of 2021. President Jim Rooks ran the show to perfection, noting:
Paul Harris Desk: Gary Fulton ($559)
Sgt At Arms: Jan Gee
Set up: Rob Erb, Tom George, James Osundwa, and possibly some minions like Rick Selden.
Photos: Phil Eng
Invocation: Barlow Buescher
Pledge: Chuck Hellar
No Visiting Rotarians, but guests, yes: Jacquelin Jackson, senior at PLU (Anne Enquist); Andy Phillips (Steve Enquist); Ellen Mazoff (Steve Mazoff), Sharon Selden (Zoomed in), Hallie McCurdy (Jim Sharp), Mike Botts (Jim Sharp)
Puffins in the house: James Osundwa, Wendy McGowan, and bearing Puffins were Bob Martin and Carl Bronkema.
Paul Harris Award: Steve Enquist recognized Tom George with his 4th Paul Harris!
Sunshine Report: Donn Irwin is still getting tests re: his heart surgery, and Marilyn Zawilski had a corneal transplant. Past member Virginia Hillyer passed away in Hood River from Covid (at 61 years old). Gordy Quick reported that Janet Lordahl is finally getting to move into Tobey Jones to be with Bob, who is doing “pretty good”.
More facts from Donn Irwin: Alligators can grow up to twenty feet, but most grow four.
Announcements:
Barlow Buescher: Needing some more volunteers for the Invocation Committee.
Rob Erb: The Military Appreciation Committee voted to give $2000 to Wreaths Across America. As this is over $2000, a club vote was required. MSC
Kendra Riconosciuto: Peanut Butter Challenge: 987 jars of peanut butter were acquired at Safeway last Saturday. Through the efforts on two Saturdays of Chuck Hellar, Bill Allen, Mary Marlin, Greg Horn, Mary Horn, Kendra, Jan Gee and Barb Spriggs, over 2000 jars were collected, going to EFN (I think).
Phil Eng: Roadster Romp: September 11-13 at Sun Mountain Lodge. Interested? Call Phil! You’ll be glad you did.
Jim Rooks: Harkness Furniture/Tacoma South Putt Putt: October 22. Three groups so far: Selden/Lowney, who will be losing a bet to Rediske/Eng in a game of Best Ball, and Rooks/Bruback. Still plenty of time to sign up. Email dave@harknessfurniture.com.
Breaking News! The man who fell into an upholstery machine is fully recovered.
Fines and Generous Giving:
Joe Quinn: OR/CA trip to visit son Patrick (and methinks, their granddaughter mostly). The Quinn house was saved from the fire in Tahoe, $50.
Steve Saalfeld: Blue Badge acquisition, but he was on Zoom. $5.00
Phil Eng: Grandpa Phil!! Grandma Judy!! Big upgrade from a granddog. Samantha is now the owner of a $1000 Paul Harris Award.
Carl Bronkema: Double-ratted on for an article in Lakeside Living magazine, $100
Kendra Riconosciuto: Thanks to the Peanut Butter group!! $20
Dave Coleman: $77 birthday plus $23 for the family’s 18th trip to Coeur d’Alene.
Peter Marsh: His daughter received a special invite from the Pope along with some other researchers for an audience with His Eminence in Rome. Wow! $50 (Peter also reported that the pandemic bad news is moderating somewhat, and a new oral anti-viral pill to treat Covid is coming from Merck.)
Barb Spriggs: It’s her birthday today, said Gayle! Not. Four days to go, but Barb added $14 to her fine from last week of $60.
And Jim recognized our amazing community guardians, Jim Sharp and Mike Zaro, both in the house. Chief Zaro neglected his update on some of the recent crime activity, so I’ll paraphrase his report:
To whoever stole my copy of Microsoft, I will find you. You have my word!
A bike in town keeps running me over. It's a vicious cycle.
(OK---it’s true, Mike didn’t report this or plan on reporting it. I forgot that we have a lawyer as an editor for just a second there.)
Program:
Annette Clark, Dean and Professor of Law, Seattle University School of Law
“Leading Through Crisis: Thoughts from the Trenches of Legal Education”
Anne Enquist introduced her former student who graduated #1 in her year’s law school class, no doubt thanks to the Enquist Instruction. She has received numerous awards, and specializes in Medical Liability, Bioethics, and Heath Care Policy (end of life issues, particularly). Annette was Interim Dean from 2009-10 before going to the St. Louis University School of Law as Dean. She returned to Seattle U as Dean in 2013, with the plan on retiring in 2022.
Above: Dean Annette Clark of Seattle U. Law School
Photo by Phil Eng
Her term as Dean has been marked by multiple crises: economic and health (pandemic) to name two. With the Great Recession, student enrollment applications declined 50%, tuition revenue declined 30% along with a total drop in the Seattle U student body of 40%. One executive told her that it would be impossible to “cut” their way out of the crisis. She had her operating budget reduced by 50%, and they had two days to go live with online classes. From these crises, she developed some thoughts on leadership through it all.
- Take everything you know and multiply it by 100 to be able to get what you need to know. Communication is critical
- Competence. You don’t have to be the smartest person in the room, but emotional intelligence is crucial. You must instill trust.
- Good judgment. You get paid the “big bucks” for this.
- Assume people won’t be at their best in the midst of crisis. Those that yell “the sky is falling!” are correct this time.
- Large crises contain small crises. This is good. Solve the little ones for some success along the way.
- Churchill said: “Never let a good crisis go to waste”. For instance, the school was working on expanding their online offerings, when suddenly it was thrust upon them full time. They never would have achieved the success in online learning without the crisis.
- You may need to say the crisis is over even when it isn’t, just to survive.
- One crisis could precipitate another crisis. Beware.
- (This one was probably the best one of all, but the bulletin writer missed it.)
- Acceptance.
Greg Horn noted afterward that this was perhaps the best Rotary program he has heard in over 1400 Rotary programs. High praise indeed!
The Pot was $625, with 8 white and one red. Phil Eng could have almost financed his new Paul Harris but went with the smaller down payment of $5.00.
The other day, Ole the Swede was sitting on a park bench reading the newspaper (!!), when he started to weep uncontrollably. A kind and caring Norwegian was passing by, and said, “Sir, I can’t help but see you crying; is there anything I can do?” Ole said, “Vel, I vas reading dis paper, about how two Brazilian soldiers vas killed in a drug bust.” The Norwegian said, “Well, that is sad; I can see why that upset you.” Ole said, “Yah, very sad….but how many is two Brazilian, anyvay????”
Weekend Report:
Work Party at the “Game Farm” on Phillips Road: David Swindale and son, Ron Banner, Mark Blanchard and Paul Wulfestieg joined more than 30 others (mostly from Pierce College). Lakewood Rotarians outnumbered CP Rotarians (only Alan Billingsley) because their CP Golf Tourney was rescheduled for the same day. Lots of Scotch broom removal, litter pick-up, branch clearing, and two new benches installed courtesy of Blanchard’s super duper cement mixer. And at the other park, Barlow Buescher led a crew in poop pick up. Easily 30 pounds or more was rescued. Thanks to all!
Above: Bill Potter, the Game Farm worker, at the Clover Park Rotary Golf Tourney
Dave Hall Photo
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Comedy Hour?
Monday, September 27, 2021 By: Gayle Selden
Get Ready for the Comedy ShowTHE LAKEWOOD KEY
The September 24th meeting of the Rotary Club of Lakewood was brought to order by President Jim Rooks. Jim was standing on a stage so we felt very official with the meeting set up until we learned there was a stage because it was set up for Comedy Night! So, the stage was set for hilarity. We started with a miss on the invocation by Chris Kimball as Chris missed the meeting but without missing a beat Dr. Rooks took up the mic. Walt Richardson attempted to lead the pledge but an assist by Peter Marsh was necessary to remember the start. Walt for future reference its “I pledge allegiance…”
Super Set up Crew Rob Erb, Tom George, Terry Roarke, Greg Rediske, James Osundwa and Leanna Christian got us in VIP set up (Virtual/ In Person). John Lowney was recording the fines; Gayle Selden was recording the happenings and Phil Eng was recording the photo memories. Steve Enquist was on the Foundation desk and Coach Gary Barton was working as Sergeant at Arms.
Say the name Phil Eng fast. Really fast. Apparently, I am the last to the party to hear it as “filling” as I did when he was announced on Friday.
The Puffins were recognized by standing up and getting a round of applause.
Steve Enquist came up to hand out Paul Harris awards that have ben earned in the past year. Leanna Christian (NOTICE THE A AT THE END OF HER NAME) got her 1st Paul Harris. David Swindale was also recognized for his 1st Paul Harris. Mo Sarram got his 5th Paul Harris and Bud Montgomery his 6th. Steve reminded us that an easy way to donate is Rotary Direct. Head to www.rotary.org and sign in to your rotary account and set up monthly or yearly donation direct to the foundation. At the desk today Steve had collected $1384.
Above: Paul Harris honorees
Dr. Peter Marsh, self-proclaimed Debbie Downer, gave us a Covid update. Washington State cases are starting to decline but ICUs are still full of Covid patients. Right now, if you are 65+ you are eligible for a booster if you had Pfizer. There has also been some talk that 18+ and high risk can also get the booster. Moderna is not authorized for boosters yet, but that will probably occur with FDA approval. J&J should also have a second dose soon. Get Vaxed and be a helper to end this Covid outbreak.
Dr. Rooks then brought up Bob Martin and his sponsor Greg Horn to induct him into membership. Bob let us know we were gaining a used President. He and his wife Sue moved onto Lake Steilacoom this past year (just four docks down from Clint Johnson). They took over the house from their kids whose expanding family moved off the lake and into University Place. Bob is a retired Land Use Planner. He spent 17 years in Walla Walla (land use planning not at the Pen), in Whatcom County and in Sultan. He was the President of the Rotary Club of Monroe, twice. Bob and Sue have two children who are both molecular geneticists. Bob is so proud of them and their spouses who are also in the medical fields.
Above: New Member Bob Martin
I would just like to note that I messed up the spelling of geneticists so bad spell check suggested “guestlist.” Sorry I am such a disappointment, Dad.
An egregious error occurred during Bob Martin’s speech…a phone rang, and rang, and rang, and rang and rang. It was discovered that the phone ringing was none other than past District Governor Greg Horn’s. He was on stage with Bob and swore he put his phone on silent. He pledged $5 but had to change it to $4 since that is all he had…until friend Scott Buser popped up and gave another $20 as the phone ringing was outrageous.
We called for the passing of the Puffin and realized that is why James Osundwa hurried out of the room. He left the puffin in his CAR! (The horror!) The Puffin was passed on to Bob.
Jim asked for any sunshine and it was reported that Donn Irwin is having further tests on his heart.
Upcoming activities—Tacoma South Rotary is having their Putt Putt tourney at Harkness Furniture on October 22nd. There are a couple teams from Lakewood Rotary that will be there so sign up. Gayle has an emailable form if you need one.
Next Saturday, October 2nd is the next South Sound Wildlife cleanup. Located next to Phillips Road, the “Game Farm” restoration has been a project of Clover Park Rotary. Join in starting at 9:00 a.m. (ends at 1:00 p.m.). Make sure to bring some gloves!
The Sheriff hat came out for Fines and Generous Giving.
Barb Spriggs immediately volunteered for a trip to Kotzebue, Alaska $50. Rick Selden shared his Rotary information gathering trip to Glacier National Park learning about how the Rotary Clubs nearby in both Canada and United States have made that area and The Waterton Lake National Park in Canada the first International Peace Park where both countries work to resolve natural resource issues that transcend international borders. He paid $100 in an IOU. Daughter Gayle also went on a Rotary mission to Buffalo to study additional fundraising ideas including a duck dash and a beer concession stand $100 in cash. Take that Dad!
Above: The ever-elegant Rick Selden: Take that Dad!
David Swindale went to South Carolina for a nephew’s wedding, $50 to see the Great Smoky Mountains. Eric Quinn paid $20 for showing up late on Zoom. Leanna (NOTICE THE A AT THE END) Christian paid $20 to celebrate her son’s 15th Birthday and her new Internship at BCRA in downtown Tacoma. We will miss you in person while you complete that Internship, Leanna!
Gordy Quick said he is turning 90 next month and paid his first $20 toward his fine (Gordy has a lay a way plan due to his “fixed” income).
Greg Horn announced the Peanut Butter Drive that took place Saturday. Thanks for those who volunteered!
Member Julie White took a moment before introducing our speaker on zoom to pay $100 fine for missing meetings.
THE PROGRAM:
Above: Another Zooming Program Speaker
Our speaker, Mi-Yoeong Lee, is the director of Social Services at the Korean Women’s Association. She has been the director since 2013. She also previously managed the shelter.
Mi-Yoeong let us know the Korean Women’s Association was started to assist the Korean women who moved into the area married to soldiers. Goal was to provide support and help with assimilation. They cover Western Washington and have one of their two shelters for women and children in the Tacoma area.
The KWA shelter in Tacoma is kept as a secret location for the safety of those living there. There is a garden, playground for kids and many programs to provide support including help for legal status in the country (which is a common way the women can be controlled).
Other programs at KWA include Senior Wellness, Senior Activity, Benefits for medical, unpaid Caregiver Support and training. And this year, they were awarded a 10-million-dollar grant from Pierce County for rental assistance.
The raffle numbers were drawn and the lucky winner of $5 was Greg Rediske!
Steve Enquist came up to hand out Paul Harris awards that have ben earned in the past year. Leanna Christian (NOTICE THE A AT THE END OF HER NAME) got her 1st Paul Harris. David Swindale was also recognized for his 1st Paul Harris. Mo Sarram got his 5th Paul Harris and Bud Montgomery his 6th. Steve reminded us that an easy way to donate is Rotary Direct. Head to www.rotary.org and sign in to your rotary account and set up monthly or yearly donation direct to the foundation. At the desk today Steve had collected $1384.
Above: Paul Harris honorees
Dr. Peter Marsh, self-proclaimed Debbie Downer, gave us a Covid update. Washington State cases are starting to decline but ICUs are still full of Covid patients. Right now, if you are 65+ you are eligible for a booster if you had Pfizer. There has also been some talk that 18+ and high risk can also get the booster. Moderna is not authorized for boosters yet, but that will probably occur with FDA approval. J&J should also have a second dose soon. Get Vaxed and be a helper to end this Covid outbreak.
Dr. Rooks then brought up Bob Martin and his sponsor Greg Horn to induct him into membership. Bob let us know we were gaining a used President. He and his wife Sue moved onto Lake Steilacoom this past year (just four docks down from Clint Johnson). They took over the house from their kids whose expanding family moved off the lake and into University Place. Bob is a retired Land Use Planner. He spent 17 years in Walla Walla (land use planning not at the Pen), in Whatcom County and in Sultan. He was the President of the Rotary Club of Monroe, twice. Bob and Sue have two children who are both molecular geneticists. Bob is so proud of them and their spouses who are also in the medical fields.
Above: New Member Bob Martin
I would just like to note that I messed up the spelling of geneticists so bad spell check suggested “guestlist.” Sorry I am such a disappointment, Dad.
An egregious error occurred during Bob Martin’s speech…a phone rang, and rang, and rang, and rang and rang. It was discovered that the phone ringing was none other than past District Governor Greg Horn’s. He was on stage with Bob and swore he put his phone on silent. He pledged $5 but had to change it to $4 since that is all he had…until friend Scott Buser popped up and gave another $20 as the phone ringing was outrageous.
We called for the passing of the Puffin and realized that is why James Osundwa hurried out of the room. He left the puffin in his CAR! (The horror!) The Puffin was passed on to Bob.
Jim asked for any sunshine and it was reported that Donn Irwin is having further tests on his heart.
Upcoming activities—Tacoma South Rotary is having their Putt Putt tourney at Harkness Furniture on October 22nd. There are a couple teams from Lakewood Rotary that will be there so sign up. Gayle has an emailable form if you need one.
Next Saturday, October 2nd is the next South Sound Wildlife cleanup. Located next to Phillips Road, the “Game Farm” restoration has been a project of Clover Park Rotary. Join in starting at 9:00 a.m. (ends at 1:00 p.m.). Make sure to bring some gloves!
The Sheriff hat came out for Fines and Generous Giving.
Barb Spriggs immediately volunteered for a trip to Kotzebue, Alaska $50. Rick Selden shared his Rotary information gathering trip to Glacier National Park learning about how the Rotary Clubs nearby in both Canada and United States have made that area and The Waterton Lake National Park in Canada the first International Peace Park where both countries work to resolve natural resource issues that transcend international borders. He paid $100 in an IOU. Daughter Gayle also went on a Rotary mission to Buffalo to study additional fundraising ideas including a duck dash and a beer concession stand $100 in cash. Take that Dad!
Above: The ever-elegant Rick Selden: Take that Dad!
David Swindale went to South Carolina for a nephew’s wedding, $50 to see the Great Smoky Mountains. Eric Quinn paid $20 for showing up late on Zoom. Leanna (NOTICE THE A AT THE END) Christian paid $20 to celebrate her son’s 15th Birthday and her new Internship at BCRA in downtown Tacoma. We will miss you in person while you complete that Internship, Leanna!
Gordy Quick said he is turning 90 next month and paid his first $20 toward his fine (Gordy has a lay a way plan due to his “fixed” income).
Greg Horn announced the Peanut Butter Drive that took place Saturday. Thanks for those who volunteered!
Member Julie White took a moment before introducing our speaker on zoom to pay $100 fine for missing meetings.
THE PROGRAM:
Above: Another Zooming Program Speaker
Our speaker, Mi-Yoeong Lee, is the director of Social Services at the Korean Women’s Association. She has been the director since 2013. She also previously managed the shelter.
Mi-Yoeong let us know the Korean Women’s Association was started to assist the Korean women who moved into the area married to soldiers. Goal was to provide support and help with assimilation. They cover Western Washington and have one of their two shelters for women and children in the Tacoma area.
The KWA shelter in Tacoma is kept as a secret location for the safety of those living there. There is a garden, playground for kids and many programs to provide support including help for legal status in the country (which is a common way the women can be controlled).
Other programs at KWA include Senior Wellness, Senior Activity, Benefits for medical, unpaid Caregiver Support and training. And this year, they were awarded a 10-million-dollar grant from Pierce County for rental assistance.
The raffle numbers were drawn and the lucky winner of $5 was Greg Rediske!
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What is C-4?
Monday, September 20, 2021 By: Paula T. Olson
C4 – What Is It?By Paula T. Olson and Mary Marlin
[Hint: It is not the explosive]
Our fearless leader opened the meeting at the appointed time and Paula Olson said an appropriate invocation. President Rooks called on Gary Fulton to lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Pres. Rooks announced the set up group, including Rob Erb, Tom George, Greg Rediske, Terry Roarke and James Osundwa. Pres. Jim said we are in desperate need of set up help. These guys can’t keep doing it all week after week so, come on, people, call Rob Erb and find out how you can help. Mary Horn was going to collect fines until John Lowney showed up. Paula Olson and Mary Marlin are writing the bulletin with Joe Quinn as the editor. Blame him for any and all errors. Walt Richardson was official photographer and Chuck Hellar was at the front desk, with Carol Wier collecting $2.00 for every raffle ticket. Kendra Riconosciuto womaned the Foundation desk.
Sadly, we had no visiting Rotarians. We had a couple of guests: Angela Connolly who is looking us over to see if we will be a good match, Syndey Balogh, a friend (and another possible member) of Kendra R., and Mary Horn brought Bob Martin, a Past President of the Monroe club, who will be inducted soon into Lakewood Rotary. Puffins in attendance were Carl Bronkema, Steve Saalfeld, James Osundwa (although Pres. Jim said he’s been around so much it’s hard to think of him as a Puffin) Wendy McGowan and Anthony Veliz.
Steve Enquist continued his presentation of Paul Harrises from the past year or so. Tom George received his third Paul Harris and Don Daniels also received his third Paul Harris. Thank you both for your generosity! Steve announced that since we’ve been in person at meetings, over $2,000 has been donated. There was no Sunshine report and Pres Jim still needs a taker for that job.
Greg Horn and Bob Martin did double duty announcing the birthdays and anniversaries for the month.
Walt Richardson has been a member of the club as long as I’ve been alive – 37 years. (Never trust a journalist or an attorney—The Editor). Wow Walt --such commitment. For wedding anniversaries, Mark and Joan Blanchard have been married 45 years, Greg and Mary Horn for 45 years. Greg chipped in $1.00 per year for both of them or $90 total. Scott and Kathy Buser for 46 years, Wynn and Margie Hoffman for 53 years, Rick and Sharon Selden for 53 years and ? and ? for 64 years.
In honor of our club doing “something peculiar” on birthdays, Bob Martin had the birthday members tell us the fastest you have ever driven and if you can match his top speed you don’t have to pay a fine. Dave Coleman said 115 mph and he paid a fine, Mark Blanchard went 145 mph, the same speed as Bob, but on Highway 512 going to Parkland. Mark should get a prize for a) living to tell the story and b) not getting a ticket. Bob did his speed in a Volvo sports car on the Autobahn so that should hardly count at all. Greg Horn went 135 mph across country in a Porsche AND he took a picture of the speedometer to prove it. (yes, that means he was driving 135 with one hand on the wheel.)
President Rooks asked if anyone had information to share. Here is some of the information: South Tacoma Rotary is doing a Dinner, cocktails and Putt Putt Golf tournament coming up soon. See Jim for sign up forms. Kendra Riconosciuto reminded the club that there will be a peanut butter collecting opportunity at the Steilacoom Blvd. Safeway. Some have already signed up to volunteer, but the slot from 1 to 3 is still available. On the 25th there are also spots to fill. Check in with Kendra if you love peanut butter...okay collecting peanut butter.
Heritage Bank has closed some banks due to covid issues. Check before you go. Jim Sharp mentioned that AEDs have been placed in several community places such as Steilacoom Park to help those who may be challenged with heart issues. Awards like the Larry Saunders Award and generous donors like The Selden Family and West Pierce donations have helped to make these AEDs available. https://thesubtimes.com/?s=AEDs+Fort+Steilacoom+Park is the link to the article in The Suburban Times. Check the internet for the video showing lots of volunteers helping. Jason Whalen suggested you sample the beverages on the beer trucks and other trucks at the Lakewood Colonial Center next Saturday, the 25th.
Hot off the press, Peter Marsh announced that minutes ago the FDA Advisory Panel approved Pfizer Covid 19 booster shots for everyone 65 or older, but not for those 64 or younger. He also made the comment that if anyone has an issue about fetal cells being used in the development of the vaccine, then they need to be aware that such cells were also used in the development of Tylenol, Tums, Pepto Bismo, and his personal favority--- Preparation H. As to the Puffin update check in, James Osundwa had his Puffin "secured" on the counter in the back of the room, while Carl Bronkema had no clue where his Puffin buddy was. People have been arrested for such negligence of their dependents but he did pay $50 for his lost Puffin. I think James got the Good to Go card. Lucky break!
[Paula then handed the baton to Mary Marlin]
THE PROGRAM: C4
Mary Horn then gave a warm introduction for Kendra Riconosciuto, her newly appointed President/Coordinator of the Community Calendar Coordination Committee, better known as the C4 organization. There is much fascination about this committee! Let it be known that it was initially organized at Donna Phillips's party, which I know is a happenin' event. When Mary realized that Lakewood and Puyallup had major events like Sportsman's Dinner on the same day as a major Puyallup Rotary event, she knew something had to change. And she did! She also invited Kendra to be secretary (now promoted to President/Coordinator) and to take some notes and keep them on track. With that, Kendra's life story was outed which gave us interesting information we didn't know. Yes, she was sponsored by Greg Horn in Rotary in 2018 when she joined Lakewood Rotary. She has been a successful financial advisor with several firms. She grew up in Lacey and now lives in Steilacoom with her husband and two children, ages 7 and 5. An unknown fact is that she lived in Vegas and sold cars for four years. With her name a little difficult Mary suggested you remember Turner, her maiden name, and prosciutto , then put the two together. Or was that rigatoni? Mary also suggested you give Kendra extra time to get to a meeting and her Zodiac name would be Old Souls which definitely addresses her thoughtfulness toward others and her enjoyment of new friendships.
So let's take a look at C4. Yes, Community Calendar Coordination Committee! The need for getting the community together regarding events, to help each other with specific tasks, to learn about the objectives of each organization and to personally know all members involved was the initial reason for getting these clubs/school districts/ service groups/colleges/youth organizations/ JBLM/non-profit organizations and partnerships more organized together with common goals. The specific Mission of C4 is to improve coordination of community events. The Goals are to reduce overlapping of events and to collaborate and share resources. As Kendra mentioned, you learn so much from all these organizations. There are now more than 20 involved! They meet at different places...no longer just for breakfast at a restaurant. The meetings are every other month and are now meeting live. What one club may need, others provide. Opportunities become available. Even with the covid challenge, organizations helped one another solve problems that seemed unsolvable. This open dialogue has brought the community closer in two years than would ever have been realized unless two amazing women had taken charge! Well done!
Here are some examples of how C4 has handled challenges. Nourish, run by Sue Potter, addressed the need for soup to be available to her needy community members. C4 stepped in to help. Bikes were going to be trashed since others didn't know what to do. C4 stepped in. A boutique for young girls who wished to have some new clothing was handled by Coffee Oasis who had clothes offered to them and they shared the wealth. Clover Park Technical College wanted to help folks and a grant was given immediately at one of their C4 meetings! Rotaract and Pierce College are together solving problems that they could not have managed alone. Communities in Schools connected seniors who sewed masks to community members who had none. And there is now a Podcast to connect military folks with needed information from the community. Yes, change can happen with resourcefulness, intention and attention to detail.
Several members, after hearing of the amazing progress in the two years C4 has been working, congratulated Kendra and Mary Horn on the amazing work that has been done in such a short time. Kendra mentioned that some projects are not advertised and need not be put in the public sphere. Steve Saalfeld suggested that maybe a C5 or C6 may be next! Anne Enquist suggested Facebook or another website. She also volunteered to help! Andrew Kruse who has been a major player in C4 congratulated Kendra on her presentation. Nicole Hancock suggested a Board Meeting discussion would be helpful. Kendra agreed. With that, warm applause was given and Kendra welcomed all to join C4!! An exciting opportunity to give back in any way you can!!
The meeting was then adjourned by President Jim Rooks. Nice hat, Sheriff! Till next time....... Yours truly, Mary Marlin
Steve Enquist continued his presentation of Paul Harrises from the past year or so. Tom George received his third Paul Harris and Don Daniels also received his third Paul Harris. Thank you both for your generosity! Steve announced that since we’ve been in person at meetings, over $2,000 has been donated. There was no Sunshine report and Pres Jim still needs a taker for that job.
Greg Horn and Bob Martin did double duty announcing the birthdays and anniversaries for the month.
Walt Richardson has been a member of the club as long as I’ve been alive – 37 years. (Never trust a journalist or an attorney—The Editor). Wow Walt --such commitment. For wedding anniversaries, Mark and Joan Blanchard have been married 45 years, Greg and Mary Horn for 45 years. Greg chipped in $1.00 per year for both of them or $90 total. Scott and Kathy Buser for 46 years, Wynn and Margie Hoffman for 53 years, Rick and Sharon Selden for 53 years and ? and ? for 64 years.
In honor of our club doing “something peculiar” on birthdays, Bob Martin had the birthday members tell us the fastest you have ever driven and if you can match his top speed you don’t have to pay a fine. Dave Coleman said 115 mph and he paid a fine, Mark Blanchard went 145 mph, the same speed as Bob, but on Highway 512 going to Parkland. Mark should get a prize for a) living to tell the story and b) not getting a ticket. Bob did his speed in a Volvo sports car on the Autobahn so that should hardly count at all. Greg Horn went 135 mph across country in a Porsche AND he took a picture of the speedometer to prove it. (yes, that means he was driving 135 with one hand on the wheel.)
President Rooks asked if anyone had information to share. Here is some of the information: South Tacoma Rotary is doing a Dinner, cocktails and Putt Putt Golf tournament coming up soon. See Jim for sign up forms. Kendra Riconosciuto reminded the club that there will be a peanut butter collecting opportunity at the Steilacoom Blvd. Safeway. Some have already signed up to volunteer, but the slot from 1 to 3 is still available. On the 25th there are also spots to fill. Check in with Kendra if you love peanut butter...okay collecting peanut butter.
Heritage Bank has closed some banks due to covid issues. Check before you go. Jim Sharp mentioned that AEDs have been placed in several community places such as Steilacoom Park to help those who may be challenged with heart issues. Awards like the Larry Saunders Award and generous donors like The Selden Family and West Pierce donations have helped to make these AEDs available. https://thesubtimes.com/?s=AEDs+Fort+Steilacoom+Park is the link to the article in The Suburban Times. Check the internet for the video showing lots of volunteers helping. Jason Whalen suggested you sample the beverages on the beer trucks and other trucks at the Lakewood Colonial Center next Saturday, the 25th.
Hot off the press, Peter Marsh announced that minutes ago the FDA Advisory Panel approved Pfizer Covid 19 booster shots for everyone 65 or older, but not for those 64 or younger. He also made the comment that if anyone has an issue about fetal cells being used in the development of the vaccine, then they need to be aware that such cells were also used in the development of Tylenol, Tums, Pepto Bismo, and his personal favority--- Preparation H. As to the Puffin update check in, James Osundwa had his Puffin "secured" on the counter in the back of the room, while Carl Bronkema had no clue where his Puffin buddy was. People have been arrested for such negligence of their dependents but he did pay $50 for his lost Puffin. I think James got the Good to Go card. Lucky break!
[Paula then handed the baton to Mary Marlin]
THE PROGRAM: C4
Mary Horn then gave a warm introduction for Kendra Riconosciuto, her newly appointed President/Coordinator of the Community Calendar Coordination Committee, better known as the C4 organization. There is much fascination about this committee! Let it be known that it was initially organized at Donna Phillips's party, which I know is a happenin' event. When Mary realized that Lakewood and Puyallup had major events like Sportsman's Dinner on the same day as a major Puyallup Rotary event, she knew something had to change. And she did! She also invited Kendra to be secretary (now promoted to President/Coordinator) and to take some notes and keep them on track. With that, Kendra's life story was outed which gave us interesting information we didn't know. Yes, she was sponsored by Greg Horn in Rotary in 2018 when she joined Lakewood Rotary. She has been a successful financial advisor with several firms. She grew up in Lacey and now lives in Steilacoom with her husband and two children, ages 7 and 5. An unknown fact is that she lived in Vegas and sold cars for four years. With her name a little difficult Mary suggested you remember Turner, her maiden name, and prosciutto , then put the two together. Or was that rigatoni? Mary also suggested you give Kendra extra time to get to a meeting and her Zodiac name would be Old Souls which definitely addresses her thoughtfulness toward others and her enjoyment of new friendships.
So let's take a look at C4. Yes, Community Calendar Coordination Committee! The need for getting the community together regarding events, to help each other with specific tasks, to learn about the objectives of each organization and to personally know all members involved was the initial reason for getting these clubs/school districts/ service groups/colleges/youth organizations/ JBLM/non-profit organizations and partnerships more organized together with common goals. The specific Mission of C4 is to improve coordination of community events. The Goals are to reduce overlapping of events and to collaborate and share resources. As Kendra mentioned, you learn so much from all these organizations. There are now more than 20 involved! They meet at different places...no longer just for breakfast at a restaurant. The meetings are every other month and are now meeting live. What one club may need, others provide. Opportunities become available. Even with the covid challenge, organizations helped one another solve problems that seemed unsolvable. This open dialogue has brought the community closer in two years than would ever have been realized unless two amazing women had taken charge! Well done!
Here are some examples of how C4 has handled challenges. Nourish, run by Sue Potter, addressed the need for soup to be available to her needy community members. C4 stepped in to help. Bikes were going to be trashed since others didn't know what to do. C4 stepped in. A boutique for young girls who wished to have some new clothing was handled by Coffee Oasis who had clothes offered to them and they shared the wealth. Clover Park Technical College wanted to help folks and a grant was given immediately at one of their C4 meetings! Rotaract and Pierce College are together solving problems that they could not have managed alone. Communities in Schools connected seniors who sewed masks to community members who had none. And there is now a Podcast to connect military folks with needed information from the community. Yes, change can happen with resourcefulness, intention and attention to detail.
Several members, after hearing of the amazing progress in the two years C4 has been working, congratulated Kendra and Mary Horn on the amazing work that has been done in such a short time. Kendra mentioned that some projects are not advertised and need not be put in the public sphere. Steve Saalfeld suggested that maybe a C5 or C6 may be next! Anne Enquist suggested Facebook or another website. She also volunteered to help! Andrew Kruse who has been a major player in C4 congratulated Kendra on her presentation. Nicole Hancock suggested a Board Meeting discussion would be helpful. Kendra agreed. With that, warm applause was given and Kendra welcomed all to join C4!! An exciting opportunity to give back in any way you can!!
The meeting was then adjourned by President Jim Rooks. Nice hat, Sheriff! Till next time....... Yours truly, Mary Marlin
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C4-What is It?
Sunday, September 19, 2021 By: Paula T. Olson
C4 – What Is It?By Paula T. Olson and Mary Marlin
[Hint: It is not the explosive]
Our fearless leader opened the meeting at the appointed time and Paula Olson said an appropriate invocation. President Rooks called on Gary Fulton to lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Pres. Rooks announced the set up group, including Rob Erb, Tom George, Greg Rediske, Terry Roarke and James Osundwa. Pres. Jim said we are in desperate need of set up help. These guys can’t keep doing it all week after week so, come on, people, call Rob Erb and find out how you can help. Mary Horn was going to collect fines until John Lowney showed up. Paula Olson and Mary Marlin are writing the bulletin with Joe Quinn as the editor. Blame him for any and all errors. Walt Richardson was official photographer and Chuck Hellar was at the front desk, with Carol Wier collecting $2.00 for every raffle ticket. Kendra Riconosciuto womaned the Foundation desk.
Sadly, we had no visiting Rotarians. We had a couple of guests: Angela Connolly who is looking us over to see if we will be a good match, Syndey Balogh, a friend (and another possible member) of Kendra R., and Mary Horn brought Bob Martin, a Past President of the Monroe club, who will be inducted soon into Lakewood Rotary. Puffins in attendance were Carl Bronkema, Steve Saalfeld, James Osundwa (although Pres. Jim said he’s been around so much it’s hard to think of him as a Puffin) Wendy McGowan and Anthony Veliz.
Steve Enquist continued his presentation of Paul Harrises from the past year or so. Tom George received his third Paul Harris and Don Daniels also received his third Paul Harris. Thank you both for your generosity! Steve announced that since we’ve been in person at meetings, over $2,000 has been donated. There was no Sunshine report and Pres Jim still needs a taker for that job.
Greg Horn and Bob Martin did double duty announcing the birthdays and anniversaries for the month.
Walt Richardson has been a member of the club as long as I’ve been alive – 37 years. (Never trust a journalist or an attorney—The Editor). Wow Walt --such commitment. For wedding anniversaries, Mark and Joan Blanchard have been married 45 years, Greg and Mary Horn for 45 years. Greg chipped in $1.00 per year for both of them or $90 total. Scott and Kathy Buser for 46 years, Wynn and Margie Hoffman for 53 years, Rick and Sharon Selden for 53 years and ? and ? for 64 years. You'll have to guess... as the writer could not hear all that on the Zoom. Prize goes to the first to guess.
In honor of our club doing “something peculiar” on birthdays, Bob Martin had the birthday members tell us the fastest you have ever driven and if you can match his top speed you don’t have to pay a fine. Dave Coleman said 115 mph and he paid a fine, Mark Blanchard went 145 mph, the same speed as Bob, but on Highway 512 going to Parkland. Mark should get a prize for a) living to tell the story and b) not getting a ticket. Bob did his speed in a Volvo sports car on the Autobahn so that should hardly count at all. Greg Horn went 135 mph across country in a Porsche AND he took a picture of the speedometer to prove it. (yes, that means he was driving 135 with one hand on the wheel.)
President Rooks asked if anyone had information to share. Here is some of the information: South Tacoma Rotary is doing a Dinner, cocktails and Putt Putt Golf tournament coming up soon. See Jim for sign up forms. Kendra Riconosciuto reminded the club that there will be a peanut butter collecting opportunity at the Steilacoom Blvd. Safeway. Some have already signed up to volunteer, but the slot from 1 to 3 is still available. On the 25th there are also spots to fill. Check in with Kendra if you love peanut butter...okay collecting peanut butter.
Heritage Bank has closed some banks due to covid issues. Check before you go. Jim Sharp mentioned that AEDs have been placed in several community places such as Steilacoom Park to help those who may be challenged with heart issues. Awards like the Larry Saunders Award and generous donors like The Selden Family and West Pierce donations have helped to make these AEDs available. https://thesubtimes.com/?s=AEDs+Fort+Steilacoom+Park is the link to the article in The Suburban Times. Check the internet for the video showing lots of volunteers helping. Jason Whalen suggested you sample the beverages on the beer trucks and other trucks at the Lakewood Colonial Center next Saturday, the 25th.
Hot off the press, Peter Marsh announced that minutes ago the FDA Advisory Panel approved Pfizer Covid 19 booster shots for everyone 65 or older, but not for those 64 or younger. He also made the comment that if anyone has an issue about fetal cells being used in the development of the vaccine, then they need to be aware that such cells were also used in the development of Tylenol, Tums, Pepto Bismo, and his personal favority--- Preparation H. As to the Puffin update check in, James Osundwa had his Puffin "secured" on the counter in the back of the room, while Carl Bronkema had no clue where his Puffin buddy was. People have been arrested for such negligence of their dependents but he did pay $50 for his lost Puffin. I think James got the Good to Go card. Lucky break!
[Paula then handed the baton to Mary Marlin]
THE PROGRAM: C4
Mary Horn then gave a warm introduction for Kendra Riconosciuto, her newly appointed President/Coordinator of the Community Calendar Coordination Committee, better known as the C4 organization. There is much fascination about this committee! Let it be known that it was initially organized at Donna Phillips's party, which I know is a happenin' event. When Mary realized that Lakewood and Puyallup had major events like Sportsman's Dinner on the same day as a major Puyallup Rotary event, she knew something had to change. And she did! She also invited Kendra to be secretary (now promoted to President/Coordinator) and to take some notes and keep them on track. With that, Kendra's life story was outed which gave us interesting information we didn't know. Yes, she was sponsored by Greg Horn in Rotary in 2018 when she joined Lakewood Rotary. She has been a successful financial advisor with several firms. She grew up in Lacey and now lives in Steilacoom with her husband and two children, ages 7 and 5. An unknown fact is that she lived in Vegas and sold cars for four years. With her name a little difficult Mary suggested you remember Turner, her maiden name, and prosciutto , then put the two together. Or was that rigatoni? Mary also suggested you give Kendra extra time to get to a meeting and her Zodiac name would be Old Souls which definitely addresses her thoughtfulness toward others and her enjoyment of new friendships.
So let's take a look at C4. Yes, Community Calendar Coordination Committee! The need for getting the community together regarding events, to help each other with specific tasks, to learn about the objectives of each organization and to personally know all members involved was the initial reason for getting these clubs/school districts/ service groups/colleges/youth organizations/ JBLM/non-profit organizations and partnerships more organized together with common goals. The specific Mission of C4 is to improve coordination of community events. The Goals are to reduce overlapping of events and to collaborate and share resources. As Kendra mentioned, you learn so much from all these organizations. There are now more than 20 involved! They meet at different places...no longer just for breakfast at a restaurant. The meetings are every other month and are now meeting live. What one club may need, others provide. Opportunities become available. Even with the covid challenge, organizations helped one another solve problems that seemed unsolvable. This open dialogue has brought the community closer in two years than would ever have been realized unless two amazing women had taken charge! Well done!
Here are some examples of how C4 has handled challenges. Nourish, run by Sue Potter, addressed the need for soup to be available to her needy community members. C4 stepped in to help. Bikes were going to be trashed since others didn't know what to do. C4 stepped in. A boutique for young girls who wished to have some new clothing was handled by Coffee Oasis who had clothes offered to them and they shared the wealth. Clover Park Technical College wanted to help folks and a grant was given immediately at one of their C4 meetings! Rotaract and Pierce College are together solving problems that they could not have managed alone. Communities in Schools connected seniors who sewed masks to community members who had none. And there is now a Podcast to connect military folks with needed information from the community. Yes, change can happen with resourcefulness, intention and attention to detail.
Several members, after hearing of the amazing progress in the two years C4 has been working, congratulated Kendra and Mary Horn on the amazing work that has been done in such a short time. Kendra mentioned that some projects are not advertised and need not be put in the public sphere. Steve Saalfeld suggested that maybe a C5 or C6 may be next! Anne Enquist suggested Facebook or another website. She also volunteered to help! Andrew Kruse who has been a major player in C4 congratulated Kendra on her presentation. Nicole Hancock suggested a Board Meeting discussion would be helpful. Kendra agreed. With that, warm applause was given and Kendra welcomed all to join C4!! An exciting opportunity to give back in any way you can!!
The meeting was then adjourned by President Jim Rooks. Nice hat, Sheriff! Till next time....... Yours truly, Mary Marlin
Steve Enquist continued his presentation of Paul Harrises from the past year or so. Tom George received his third Paul Harris and Don Daniels also received his third Paul Harris. Thank you both for your generosity! Steve announced that since we’ve been in person at meetings, over $2,000 has been donated. There was no Sunshine report and Pres Jim still needs a taker for that job.
Greg Horn and Bob Martin did double duty announcing the birthdays and anniversaries for the month.
Walt Richardson has been a member of the club as long as I’ve been alive – 37 years. (Never trust a journalist or an attorney—The Editor). Wow Walt --such commitment. For wedding anniversaries, Mark and Joan Blanchard have been married 45 years, Greg and Mary Horn for 45 years. Greg chipped in $1.00 per year for both of them or $90 total. Scott and Kathy Buser for 46 years, Wynn and Margie Hoffman for 53 years, Rick and Sharon Selden for 53 years and ? and ? for 64 years. You'll have to guess... as the writer could not hear all that on the Zoom. Prize goes to the first to guess.
In honor of our club doing “something peculiar” on birthdays, Bob Martin had the birthday members tell us the fastest you have ever driven and if you can match his top speed you don’t have to pay a fine. Dave Coleman said 115 mph and he paid a fine, Mark Blanchard went 145 mph, the same speed as Bob, but on Highway 512 going to Parkland. Mark should get a prize for a) living to tell the story and b) not getting a ticket. Bob did his speed in a Volvo sports car on the Autobahn so that should hardly count at all. Greg Horn went 135 mph across country in a Porsche AND he took a picture of the speedometer to prove it. (yes, that means he was driving 135 with one hand on the wheel.)
President Rooks asked if anyone had information to share. Here is some of the information: South Tacoma Rotary is doing a Dinner, cocktails and Putt Putt Golf tournament coming up soon. See Jim for sign up forms. Kendra Riconosciuto reminded the club that there will be a peanut butter collecting opportunity at the Steilacoom Blvd. Safeway. Some have already signed up to volunteer, but the slot from 1 to 3 is still available. On the 25th there are also spots to fill. Check in with Kendra if you love peanut butter...okay collecting peanut butter.
Heritage Bank has closed some banks due to covid issues. Check before you go. Jim Sharp mentioned that AEDs have been placed in several community places such as Steilacoom Park to help those who may be challenged with heart issues. Awards like the Larry Saunders Award and generous donors like The Selden Family and West Pierce donations have helped to make these AEDs available. https://thesubtimes.com/?s=AEDs+Fort+Steilacoom+Park is the link to the article in The Suburban Times. Check the internet for the video showing lots of volunteers helping. Jason Whalen suggested you sample the beverages on the beer trucks and other trucks at the Lakewood Colonial Center next Saturday, the 25th.
Hot off the press, Peter Marsh announced that minutes ago the FDA Advisory Panel approved Pfizer Covid 19 booster shots for everyone 65 or older, but not for those 64 or younger. He also made the comment that if anyone has an issue about fetal cells being used in the development of the vaccine, then they need to be aware that such cells were also used in the development of Tylenol, Tums, Pepto Bismo, and his personal favority--- Preparation H. As to the Puffin update check in, James Osundwa had his Puffin "secured" on the counter in the back of the room, while Carl Bronkema had no clue where his Puffin buddy was. People have been arrested for such negligence of their dependents but he did pay $50 for his lost Puffin. I think James got the Good to Go card. Lucky break!
[Paula then handed the baton to Mary Marlin]
THE PROGRAM: C4
Mary Horn then gave a warm introduction for Kendra Riconosciuto, her newly appointed President/Coordinator of the Community Calendar Coordination Committee, better known as the C4 organization. There is much fascination about this committee! Let it be known that it was initially organized at Donna Phillips's party, which I know is a happenin' event. When Mary realized that Lakewood and Puyallup had major events like Sportsman's Dinner on the same day as a major Puyallup Rotary event, she knew something had to change. And she did! She also invited Kendra to be secretary (now promoted to President/Coordinator) and to take some notes and keep them on track. With that, Kendra's life story was outed which gave us interesting information we didn't know. Yes, she was sponsored by Greg Horn in Rotary in 2018 when she joined Lakewood Rotary. She has been a successful financial advisor with several firms. She grew up in Lacey and now lives in Steilacoom with her husband and two children, ages 7 and 5. An unknown fact is that she lived in Vegas and sold cars for four years. With her name a little difficult Mary suggested you remember Turner, her maiden name, and prosciutto , then put the two together. Or was that rigatoni? Mary also suggested you give Kendra extra time to get to a meeting and her Zodiac name would be Old Souls which definitely addresses her thoughtfulness toward others and her enjoyment of new friendships.
So let's take a look at C4. Yes, Community Calendar Coordination Committee! The need for getting the community together regarding events, to help each other with specific tasks, to learn about the objectives of each organization and to personally know all members involved was the initial reason for getting these clubs/school districts/ service groups/colleges/youth organizations/ JBLM/non-profit organizations and partnerships more organized together with common goals. The specific Mission of C4 is to improve coordination of community events. The Goals are to reduce overlapping of events and to collaborate and share resources. As Kendra mentioned, you learn so much from all these organizations. There are now more than 20 involved! They meet at different places...no longer just for breakfast at a restaurant. The meetings are every other month and are now meeting live. What one club may need, others provide. Opportunities become available. Even with the covid challenge, organizations helped one another solve problems that seemed unsolvable. This open dialogue has brought the community closer in two years than would ever have been realized unless two amazing women had taken charge! Well done!
Here are some examples of how C4 has handled challenges. Nourish, run by Sue Potter, addressed the need for soup to be available to her needy community members. C4 stepped in to help. Bikes were going to be trashed since others didn't know what to do. C4 stepped in. A boutique for young girls who wished to have some new clothing was handled by Coffee Oasis who had clothes offered to them and they shared the wealth. Clover Park Technical College wanted to help folks and a grant was given immediately at one of their C4 meetings! Rotaract and Pierce College are together solving problems that they could not have managed alone. Communities in Schools connected seniors who sewed masks to community members who had none. And there is now a Podcast to connect military folks with needed information from the community. Yes, change can happen with resourcefulness, intention and attention to detail.
Several members, after hearing of the amazing progress in the two years C4 has been working, congratulated Kendra and Mary Horn on the amazing work that has been done in such a short time. Kendra mentioned that some projects are not advertised and need not be put in the public sphere. Steve Saalfeld suggested that maybe a C5 or C6 may be next! Anne Enquist suggested Facebook or another website. She also volunteered to help! Andrew Kruse who has been a major player in C4 congratulated Kendra on her presentation. Nicole Hancock suggested a Board Meeting discussion would be helpful. Kendra agreed. With that, warm applause was given and Kendra welcomed all to join C4!! An exciting opportunity to give back in any way you can!!
The meeting was then adjourned by President Jim Rooks. Nice hat, Sheriff! Till next time....... Yours truly, Mary Marlin
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Airplanes and Flying are Cool!
Sunday, September 12, 2021 By: Paula T. Olson
THE LAKEWOOD KEYAirplanes and Flying are Cool!
President Jim timely rang the bell and opened the meeting on Friday. Bob Hammar gave a very nice invocation and Prez Jim led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. President Jim then made an announcement: “For 40 years I’ve been chained to a beeper or cell phone and I’m leading the revolt! Turn off your cell phones. You can spend one hour without checking or answering your phones.” (Or something like that.) Anyway, then he said this: “Lawyers always do!” (meaning that lawyers don’t answer their phones. That is so wrong, Mr. President Sir, with all due respect). But what our President is trying to say is, silence your phones during meetings. Please.
As we went forward with the meeting, we were having some tech issues with spots of silence so ye ole bulletin writer will fill in with some humor. (Is this yet another sign he doesn’t intend to step down in June?)
A happily married man had only one complaint: his wife was always nursing sick birds. One cold evening, he came home to find a raven with a splint on its beak sitting in his favorite chair. On the dining room table there was a feverish eagle pecking at an aspirin while in the kitchen his wife was comforting a shivering little wren that she found. The furious spouse strode over to where his wife was toweling down the cold little bird. "I can't take it anymore! We've got to get rid of these darn..." The wife held up her hand to cut him off in mid-curse. "Please dear," she said, "not in front of the chilled wren."
. . . Chuck Hellar was the Sergeant at Arms and Steve Enquist staffed the Foundation Desk. Puffins in attendance included Carl Bronkema, James Osundwa, Wendy McGowan and Connie Coleman-Lacadie. Then Pres. Jim had Carl and James come up where he presented each of them with their very own Puffin.
Above: Carl gets his puffin. At least it is not a chilled wren.
Jim charged them both with the awesome and awful responsibility of dressing, feeding, bathing, reading bedtime stories, and bringing them to every meeting. At the appropriate time, they will pass their Puffins on to the next newbies. Both Carl and James seemed to appreciate the honor bestowed upon them.
Steve Enquist gave a Foundation report. He said that we are going to start passing out the Paul Harris awards again now that we are in person, if those recipients are present. There are a lot of them from during COVID time and Steve will pass them out a couple at a time at every meeting. He reminded us of the mission of the Foundation and read the Mission Statement. He reviewed how the Gates Foundation matches every dollar for Polio Plus donations and the various projects funded by the Foundation. Steve talked about how it was Mike McGowan that started having the Foundation desk at meetings to allow members to donate weekly instead of cutting one check a year. You can check your balances every meeting to see where you are with your minimum donation of $100 a year.
There was no Sunshine report and President Jim said we still need a new chair. Jim said he missed seeing us in person and noted that yours truly was on Zoom and asked for a trial report. Ending week two, says Paula Olson, six more to go, more or less.
And now a period of silence. So a five dollar bill walks into a bar, and the bartender says, “Hey. This is a singles bar.” (hahahaha)
. . . No guests were present although Mary Horn reintroduced Bob Martin, a soon-to-be Puffin. Welcome Bob.
And now the fine portion of the meeting. Peter Marsh described an odd phenomenon: On the front page of the TNT, there was an article about all the hospitals in northern Idaho being filled up with (unvaccinated) COVID patients and then an article on the same page about a Gig Harbor group discussing how and why to get out of getting the vaccine. Hhmmm. I think Peter is trying to tell us something.
Back to fines. Jim says that we’re doing good on fines so keep it up. Scott Buser announced that at this very moment, his first grandchild was making his/her way into the world. He kicked in $100 to celebrate. Wendy McGowan had a great announcement that was silenced but there was a lot of clapping and she donated $100. (You had to be there to hear it, Paula. She said her daughter’s research on genetics was published in the New York Times.-Ed.)
President Jim asked everyone if they could guess why he was dressed the way he was. Since those of us on Zoom couldn’t’ see below his belt, we had no clue. He was wearing cargo shorts and a polo shirt as was the introducer of the program, Bill Potter. Turns out the guys wanted to make our guest speaker feel comfortable especially since Eric Quinn was wearing a tie, which is enough to freak anyone out.
The Program:
Above: Ben Sclair, aviator
Bill introduced Ben Sclair, a former President of our illustrious club in 2011-12, following his mom, Mary Lou Sclair who was our President in 2004-05. Welcome back, Ben!
Ben gave a great presentation on his love of airplanes and flying. He’s been flying in one form or another and in private planes since he was two weeks old. He warned us: he’s not objective when it comes to flying. He’s passionate! He reminded us that planes and flying affect us in so many ways, such as deliveries from FedEx and Amazon. Since today was the day before the 20th anniversary of 9/11, he told a story about his sister who was a pilot for FedEx. She was in the air when the attack happened. When she touched down in the Phillipines, she was met by an armed jeep and guns who kept her seated until she could be cleared.
Above: Ben’s sister
Ben had a slide show to go with his presentation, courtesy of his wife’s sorting through lots of pictures for the perfect ones. Ben said there have been about 12 planes in his family’s history. He showed a picture of him at about 12 years old with a covered wagon tent next to a plane. He said that the family would take off on weekends and fly to a show and then camp and fly to another show and come home on Sunday night. Don’t know why but he said he hated the tent.
Ben’s grandparents came from Russia and settled in Bangor, Maine, opening a tailor shop. In the back of the shop,grandpa sublet a little apartment to WWI vets who had been pilots. They used surplus planes to fly as bootleggers between Canada and the US. His granddad was surprised he didn’t get deported. But that started the family’s love of planes and flying.
The orange jumpsuit seen in many pictures was a calling card of the family. One picture showed The Great Pumpkin, an orange Piper Comanche. Ben’s dad learned to fly by trading flight lessons. He bought the Northwest Flyer a week before Ben was born and then they moved from Oklahoma to Spanaway, Washington. They settled on some acreage called the Shady Acres and his dad built a hanger before he built a house. They lived in a double wide trailer for many years. In 1975, they bought the Suburban Times. His dad was the writer and salesperson while his mom was the office manager. The office was in the home so very convenient for the family.
Above: Ben’s Dad and Mom
Ben showed a picture of Bob Hoover, a very famous test pilot and flyer of the P-51 Mustang – a fighter plane of WWII. His dad flew all over the country hawking his papers. Ben showed pictures of his sister, Robin, who was a very accomplished pilot. At the time she was a pilot for FedEx, about 5% of pilots were women. Now it’s just 6 – 7% women although women make much better instructors. Robin was hired to fly a candidate for governor all over the state during the campaign. She flew the big airplanes for FedEx.
Ben talked a bit about the ultralight planes that have wings, an engine and a seat. They are capable of flying from coast to coast. When Ben was 12 years old, he built an ultralight plane with his dad. A photographer from National Geographic came and took pictures by putting his camera on the wing of the plane. Ben was about 13-14 years old at the time. When Ben celebrated his 16th birthday, he did his first solo flight. He liked to take his high school friends on plane rides and a friend’s Mom commented that the crazy kid he was on the ground was totally different in the air. Ben shared a family picture of his wife and children. He told the story about how fast his wife could buckle the kids up in the plane if it coughed or did anything slightly unusual.
Ben showed a picture of Fat Albert, a C130 support plane for the Blue Angels. Ben got to ride in that plane which was exciting. He got a seat before an obnoxious reporter. He showed a video of the plane landing that had over a million views on Facebook.
Above: Reno airshow
In Reno, every second week of September there is a big air show with air races all weekend. He went a lot as a kid with his family. In 2011 there was a bad accident where a plane fell and hit people in the audience, killing 10 – 12 people. He showed a Stearman 450 with an open cockpit. Ben talked about all the cool stuff that is part of aviation. It is possible to operate a plane with a driver’s license. A 19 year old woman is trying to be the youngest woman to fly around the world. Check out her website at FlyZolo.com. Ben showed a video of a Reno flyby in 2013 as a part of air racing. He talked about the Oshkosh 2019 air show, the old and new flybys and showed cool airplace pictures. He showed a picture of the “Able Flight” which is a group of disabled but certified pilots. Ben said that Airbus is the number one selling aircraft manufacturer, with technology to make it impossible to get lost.
Above: Cool airplanes
Ben showed a picture of a home-built airplane with an Ipad and a Sharpie pen. A single seat helicopter goes for less than $100,00. He talked about the refurbishing of a lodge up in the mountains that had a Minan Airlift haul materials in and out. He showed a picture of the Oshkosh air show this year showing the huge area of the show and the number of people and planes there.
In appreciation of his opportunity to share his story and brag about his family, Ben donated a total of $400 according to Treasurer John Lowney. Thanks so much, Ben, and thanks for a great presentation.
Mary Marlin got a $5 ultralight bill for winning the drawing!
A happily married man had only one complaint: his wife was always nursing sick birds. One cold evening, he came home to find a raven with a splint on its beak sitting in his favorite chair. On the dining room table there was a feverish eagle pecking at an aspirin while in the kitchen his wife was comforting a shivering little wren that she found. The furious spouse strode over to where his wife was toweling down the cold little bird. "I can't take it anymore! We've got to get rid of these darn..." The wife held up her hand to cut him off in mid-curse. "Please dear," she said, "not in front of the chilled wren."
. . . Chuck Hellar was the Sergeant at Arms and Steve Enquist staffed the Foundation Desk. Puffins in attendance included Carl Bronkema, James Osundwa, Wendy McGowan and Connie Coleman-Lacadie. Then Pres. Jim had Carl and James come up where he presented each of them with their very own Puffin.
Above: Carl gets his puffin. At least it is not a chilled wren.
Jim charged them both with the awesome and awful responsibility of dressing, feeding, bathing, reading bedtime stories, and bringing them to every meeting. At the appropriate time, they will pass their Puffins on to the next newbies. Both Carl and James seemed to appreciate the honor bestowed upon them.
Steve Enquist gave a Foundation report. He said that we are going to start passing out the Paul Harris awards again now that we are in person, if those recipients are present. There are a lot of them from during COVID time and Steve will pass them out a couple at a time at every meeting. He reminded us of the mission of the Foundation and read the Mission Statement. He reviewed how the Gates Foundation matches every dollar for Polio Plus donations and the various projects funded by the Foundation. Steve talked about how it was Mike McGowan that started having the Foundation desk at meetings to allow members to donate weekly instead of cutting one check a year. You can check your balances every meeting to see where you are with your minimum donation of $100 a year.
There was no Sunshine report and President Jim said we still need a new chair. Jim said he missed seeing us in person and noted that yours truly was on Zoom and asked for a trial report. Ending week two, says Paula Olson, six more to go, more or less.
And now a period of silence. So a five dollar bill walks into a bar, and the bartender says, “Hey. This is a singles bar.” (hahahaha)
. . . No guests were present although Mary Horn reintroduced Bob Martin, a soon-to-be Puffin. Welcome Bob.
And now the fine portion of the meeting. Peter Marsh described an odd phenomenon: On the front page of the TNT, there was an article about all the hospitals in northern Idaho being filled up with (unvaccinated) COVID patients and then an article on the same page about a Gig Harbor group discussing how and why to get out of getting the vaccine. Hhmmm. I think Peter is trying to tell us something.
Back to fines. Jim says that we’re doing good on fines so keep it up. Scott Buser announced that at this very moment, his first grandchild was making his/her way into the world. He kicked in $100 to celebrate. Wendy McGowan had a great announcement that was silenced but there was a lot of clapping and she donated $100. (You had to be there to hear it, Paula. She said her daughter’s research on genetics was published in the New York Times.-Ed.)
President Jim asked everyone if they could guess why he was dressed the way he was. Since those of us on Zoom couldn’t’ see below his belt, we had no clue. He was wearing cargo shorts and a polo shirt as was the introducer of the program, Bill Potter. Turns out the guys wanted to make our guest speaker feel comfortable especially since Eric Quinn was wearing a tie, which is enough to freak anyone out.
The Program:
Above: Ben Sclair, aviator
Bill introduced Ben Sclair, a former President of our illustrious club in 2011-12, following his mom, Mary Lou Sclair who was our President in 2004-05. Welcome back, Ben!
Ben gave a great presentation on his love of airplanes and flying. He’s been flying in one form or another and in private planes since he was two weeks old. He warned us: he’s not objective when it comes to flying. He’s passionate! He reminded us that planes and flying affect us in so many ways, such as deliveries from FedEx and Amazon. Since today was the day before the 20th anniversary of 9/11, he told a story about his sister who was a pilot for FedEx. She was in the air when the attack happened. When she touched down in the Phillipines, she was met by an armed jeep and guns who kept her seated until she could be cleared.
Above: Ben’s sister
Ben had a slide show to go with his presentation, courtesy of his wife’s sorting through lots of pictures for the perfect ones. Ben said there have been about 12 planes in his family’s history. He showed a picture of him at about 12 years old with a covered wagon tent next to a plane. He said that the family would take off on weekends and fly to a show and then camp and fly to another show and come home on Sunday night. Don’t know why but he said he hated the tent.
Ben’s grandparents came from Russia and settled in Bangor, Maine, opening a tailor shop. In the back of the shop,grandpa sublet a little apartment to WWI vets who had been pilots. They used surplus planes to fly as bootleggers between Canada and the US. His granddad was surprised he didn’t get deported. But that started the family’s love of planes and flying.
The orange jumpsuit seen in many pictures was a calling card of the family. One picture showed The Great Pumpkin, an orange Piper Comanche. Ben’s dad learned to fly by trading flight lessons. He bought the Northwest Flyer a week before Ben was born and then they moved from Oklahoma to Spanaway, Washington. They settled on some acreage called the Shady Acres and his dad built a hanger before he built a house. They lived in a double wide trailer for many years. In 1975, they bought the Suburban Times. His dad was the writer and salesperson while his mom was the office manager. The office was in the home so very convenient for the family.
Above: Ben’s Dad and Mom
Ben showed a picture of Bob Hoover, a very famous test pilot and flyer of the P-51 Mustang – a fighter plane of WWII. His dad flew all over the country hawking his papers. Ben showed pictures of his sister, Robin, who was a very accomplished pilot. At the time she was a pilot for FedEx, about 5% of pilots were women. Now it’s just 6 – 7% women although women make much better instructors. Robin was hired to fly a candidate for governor all over the state during the campaign. She flew the big airplanes for FedEx.
Ben talked a bit about the ultralight planes that have wings, an engine and a seat. They are capable of flying from coast to coast. When Ben was 12 years old, he built an ultralight plane with his dad. A photographer from National Geographic came and took pictures by putting his camera on the wing of the plane. Ben was about 13-14 years old at the time. When Ben celebrated his 16th birthday, he did his first solo flight. He liked to take his high school friends on plane rides and a friend’s Mom commented that the crazy kid he was on the ground was totally different in the air. Ben shared a family picture of his wife and children. He told the story about how fast his wife could buckle the kids up in the plane if it coughed or did anything slightly unusual.
Ben showed a picture of Fat Albert, a C130 support plane for the Blue Angels. Ben got to ride in that plane which was exciting. He got a seat before an obnoxious reporter. He showed a video of the plane landing that had over a million views on Facebook.
Above: Reno airshow
In Reno, every second week of September there is a big air show with air races all weekend. He went a lot as a kid with his family. In 2011 there was a bad accident where a plane fell and hit people in the audience, killing 10 – 12 people. He showed a Stearman 450 with an open cockpit. Ben talked about all the cool stuff that is part of aviation. It is possible to operate a plane with a driver’s license. A 19 year old woman is trying to be the youngest woman to fly around the world. Check out her website at FlyZolo.com. Ben showed a video of a Reno flyby in 2013 as a part of air racing. He talked about the Oshkosh 2019 air show, the old and new flybys and showed cool airplace pictures. He showed a picture of the “Able Flight” which is a group of disabled but certified pilots. Ben said that Airbus is the number one selling aircraft manufacturer, with technology to make it impossible to get lost.
Above: Cool airplanes
Ben showed a picture of a home-built airplane with an Ipad and a Sharpie pen. A single seat helicopter goes for less than $100,00. He talked about the refurbishing of a lodge up in the mountains that had a Minan Airlift haul materials in and out. He showed a picture of the Oshkosh air show this year showing the huge area of the show and the number of people and planes there.
In appreciation of his opportunity to share his story and brag about his family, Ben donated a total of $400 according to Treasurer John Lowney. Thanks so much, Ben, and thanks for a great presentation.
Mary Marlin got a $5 ultralight bill for winning the drawing!
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New Sheriff in Town
Sunday, September 5, 2021 By: Joseph F. Quinn
New Sheriff in Town! THE LAKEWOOD KEY for September 3, 2021
President Jim Rooks is settling into his role as the new sheriff in town, as he ably led our second “hybrid” meeting at Tacoma Country and Golf Club, with numerous members and guests participating remotely in the simultaneous Zoom meeting. There were even participants in Nairobi!
Above: The New Sheriff
Andrew Kruse started us off with a Labor Day invocation, wherein he explained the derivation of the word “holiday” as descending from the sacred holy day or days in past history.
Barb Spriggs led us in the Pledge of Allegiance to our Flag.
Sheriff Jim thanked the setup crew and especially those responsible for the remote meeting equipment. He mentioned at least Rob Erb, Tom George, Leanna Christian and a few others who I could not catch up with due to aged fingers or ears. Leanna announced that they are looking for “hosts” at the meetings; it is not a job involving setup or takedown before or after the meeting, but rather a job to monitor things remote during the meeting.
Joe Quinn, who is writing this bulletin today, asked for volunteers to act as photographers at the meetings like we used to do before the pandemic. He thanked Greg Rediske, Mary Horn and any others who submitted photos to the Editor during the last 18 months as that sure helped. Phil Eng and Walt Richardson immediately stepped up but we could use at least two more. Mary Horn volunteered to be the back up whenever she is present at meetings.
President Jim said Treasurer John Lowney would be responsible for fines with Mary Marlin. Barlow Buescher served today as Sergeant at Arms. Guests included Angela Connelly and John Calder, who was a member for a time a few years ago. Greg Horn introduced Bob Martin, a new neighbor of Clint Johnson on Lake Steilacoom and a Past President of the Rotary Club of Monroe, WA, up in Snohomish County. John Lowney introduced Melissa who is watching from Nairobi because our program today is to be presented by her friends, Puffin James Osundwa and his wife Shiru. John also noted another friend calling in from Dubai. Lakewood Rotary is truly international! James proudly said those two persons are his guests. Kendra Riconosciuto introduced her guest whose name was Sydney Balogh Anne Enquist noted that guest Angela Connelly was non-Rotarian of the year in 2020. We think Angela was checking us out and we definitely think she should join Lakewood Rotary.
The Sheriff called upon all Puffins present to stand up and so they did, not wanting to be arrested, frisked, or otherwise abused by ….no, no I am not going there. And three more Puffins were on the Zoom screen. Sheriff Jim is definitely a kinder, gentler Sheriff than any President LR has ever had.
Our Member Spotlight today featured Terry Roarke. Terry proceeded to tell us about his life and it was a long story as he is 84 after all. He said he was born at St. Joseph’s hospitals when the nurses were nuns! He is a graduate of Stadium H.S. and the UW, with a degree in Chemical Engineering. He joined the Navy and went to OCS at Newport, R.I. Poor guy had to spend four years in Honolulu as a Navigator. He had a long career at Weyerhaeuser, but it was not all a bed of roses (or Douglas firs) as he spent a few winters in Aberdeen, WA. Somewhere in there he married Walli. He spent time with the company in Boston and Manhattan, commuting on the New York Central to that City gig from Briarcliff Manor. His career in wood products took all over the world. He and Walli have been married 43 years and have four children.
At that juncture, President Jim called up Dr. Peter Marsh on the Zoom screen to tell us a bit about booster shots against the COVID-19 virus. Dr. Marsh noted that the hospitals locally are filling up again, which is discouraging. He said a booster shot may be needed as antibody levels do fall over time. He said the scientists are closely watching Israel, which is using boosters widely. Dr. Marsh and Dr. Fauci both recommend getting a booster shot.
The Sheriff then turned to an item of Rotary business. There are two bylaws amendments, solely to clarify the official names of both the charitable club (of Rotary) and the operational side, each of which have separate legal existence and thus separate tax numbers (EIN numbers). Both bylaw name changes were unanimously approved, although we are not sure the Sheriff called for any opposing votes. Just kidding, Officer!
Jim announced that we need a new Sunshine Committee head and called for volunteers to let him know.
Announcements: Chuck Hellar said the Foundation Committee is down to four members and they could use 3-4 more members. The Sergeant at Arms Committee also needs bodies. Kendra Riconosciuto reported on the peanut butter drive. She said the University Place club raised $2800 in one day. The trick is to set up a table at the supermarkets and ask for donations as shoppers arrive. She asked for volunteers to do that on September 18th probably at both the Safeway (formerly Albertson’s) on Steilacoom Boulevard and at the Lakewood Towne Centre Safeway. They need about 12 volunteers to staff the table for two hour shifts at each store from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Also need a few folks with trucks to pick up all the peanut butter donated. Contact Kendra at 360 359-8063 or kturner360@gmail.com.
Gordie Quick continued the proud LR and Quick tradition of presenting a freshly-picked zucchini from his garden to the new president of Lakewood Rotary.
Above: The Sheriff in all of his regalia and bribes after the meeting: badge, sheriff’s hat and zucchini
President Jim announced that so far we have been generous in our giving for fines. About $5216 in fines have been pledged and John Lowney reports that a good deal of it has not actually been paid.
At this point, the Sheriff almost lost control of the meeting, as Jan Gee, Mary Marlin and Barb Spriggs jumped up to tell us all about their weekend in Leavenworth. Scheduled as a time to volunteer at the Courage bike ride for Mary Bridge, the weekend turned out to be a blast for this trio of ladies. They brought gifts back for Jim in the form of a Sheriff’s hat a badge and other stuff, so that was how we came to realize that he has such law enforcement credentials and credibility.
Ed Shannon ponied up big bucks to honor his 55th wedding anniversary. Unless I misheard it, he donated $300 to the Rotary International Foundation!
THE PROGRAM:
Then Barlow Buescher introduced James and Shiru Osundwa of Kenya to discuss their journey, in Rotary, but also from Kenya to America.
Above: James and Shiru present on their journey in life
James, who was inducted about three months ago into Lakewood Rotary, was involved in chartering a new club in Kenya, along with his wife. Kenya, a nation with about 55 million people has about 42 tribes and many different languages. Swahili, however, is the most common language. About 83% of the population are Christians and Muslims amount to about 11 %. Kenya is roughly the same size as Texas. The nation’s exports include tea and coffee, but the country also relies on tourism, largely centered around the wildlife. They said only about 5% of the population has had access to the COVID-19 vaccines. There are many protective measures such as masking used in the stores and other commercial spaces.
James’ mother is better off than most with a 25 acre where she raises corn and other crops.
Both James and Shiru showed photos of their families, with brothers, sisters and many kids.
Unlike James, Shiru grew up in the city. Nairobi in particular. She was very involved in the Madaraka Rotary Club. “Madaraka” is the Swahili word for “independence”. To their surprise, they learned that Rotary International is not only for the wealthy. Anyone who has time and makes an effort can contribute much, they said. Shiru noted that the people and especially the children of Kenya may not have much but they really have joy!
One of Kenya’s greatest needs, Shiru said, is water reservoirs, so that fresh water does not have to be transported over such long distances.
Next they told about their travels in Rotary Group Study Exchanges. James went to Indiana and Shiru to the United Kingdom. About Rotary, Shiru said: “The more you give, the more you get.”
In 2016, they both moved to Redlands, California where they assimilated into the culture. Rotary helped with that too and they also joined a church, which helped them feel a part of things there. Not long ago, they transitioned to Tacoma, which they felt would be a more affordable place. James works as an IT Manager for the City of Tacoma and Shiru works for a company that makes “hard money loans” that often helps finance house flippers. They stayed after the meeting to answer any questions.
THE DRAWING: Rob Erb tried to win the $520 drawing but he drew a white chip worth $5.
Barb Spriggs led us in the Pledge of Allegiance to our Flag.
Sheriff Jim thanked the setup crew and especially those responsible for the remote meeting equipment. He mentioned at least Rob Erb, Tom George, Leanna Christian and a few others who I could not catch up with due to aged fingers or ears. Leanna announced that they are looking for “hosts” at the meetings; it is not a job involving setup or takedown before or after the meeting, but rather a job to monitor things remote during the meeting.
Joe Quinn, who is writing this bulletin today, asked for volunteers to act as photographers at the meetings like we used to do before the pandemic. He thanked Greg Rediske, Mary Horn and any others who submitted photos to the Editor during the last 18 months as that sure helped. Phil Eng and Walt Richardson immediately stepped up but we could use at least two more. Mary Horn volunteered to be the back up whenever she is present at meetings.
President Jim said Treasurer John Lowney would be responsible for fines with Mary Marlin. Barlow Buescher served today as Sergeant at Arms. Guests included Angela Connelly and John Calder, who was a member for a time a few years ago. Greg Horn introduced Bob Martin, a new neighbor of Clint Johnson on Lake Steilacoom and a Past President of the Rotary Club of Monroe, WA, up in Snohomish County. John Lowney introduced Melissa who is watching from Nairobi because our program today is to be presented by her friends, Puffin James Osundwa and his wife Shiru. John also noted another friend calling in from Dubai. Lakewood Rotary is truly international! James proudly said those two persons are his guests. Kendra Riconosciuto introduced her guest whose name was Sydney Balogh Anne Enquist noted that guest Angela Connelly was non-Rotarian of the year in 2020. We think Angela was checking us out and we definitely think she should join Lakewood Rotary.
The Sheriff called upon all Puffins present to stand up and so they did, not wanting to be arrested, frisked, or otherwise abused by ….no, no I am not going there. And three more Puffins were on the Zoom screen. Sheriff Jim is definitely a kinder, gentler Sheriff than any President LR has ever had.
Our Member Spotlight today featured Terry Roarke. Terry proceeded to tell us about his life and it was a long story as he is 84 after all. He said he was born at St. Joseph’s hospitals when the nurses were nuns! He is a graduate of Stadium H.S. and the UW, with a degree in Chemical Engineering. He joined the Navy and went to OCS at Newport, R.I. Poor guy had to spend four years in Honolulu as a Navigator. He had a long career at Weyerhaeuser, but it was not all a bed of roses (or Douglas firs) as he spent a few winters in Aberdeen, WA. Somewhere in there he married Walli. He spent time with the company in Boston and Manhattan, commuting on the New York Central to that City gig from Briarcliff Manor. His career in wood products took all over the world. He and Walli have been married 43 years and have four children.
At that juncture, President Jim called up Dr. Peter Marsh on the Zoom screen to tell us a bit about booster shots against the COVID-19 virus. Dr. Marsh noted that the hospitals locally are filling up again, which is discouraging. He said a booster shot may be needed as antibody levels do fall over time. He said the scientists are closely watching Israel, which is using boosters widely. Dr. Marsh and Dr. Fauci both recommend getting a booster shot.
The Sheriff then turned to an item of Rotary business. There are two bylaws amendments, solely to clarify the official names of both the charitable club (of Rotary) and the operational side, each of which have separate legal existence and thus separate tax numbers (EIN numbers). Both bylaw name changes were unanimously approved, although we are not sure the Sheriff called for any opposing votes. Just kidding, Officer!
Jim announced that we need a new Sunshine Committee head and called for volunteers to let him know.
Announcements: Chuck Hellar said the Foundation Committee is down to four members and they could use 3-4 more members. The Sergeant at Arms Committee also needs bodies. Kendra Riconosciuto reported on the peanut butter drive. She said the University Place club raised $2800 in one day. The trick is to set up a table at the supermarkets and ask for donations as shoppers arrive. She asked for volunteers to do that on September 18th probably at both the Safeway (formerly Albertson’s) on Steilacoom Boulevard and at the Lakewood Towne Centre Safeway. They need about 12 volunteers to staff the table for two hour shifts at each store from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Also need a few folks with trucks to pick up all the peanut butter donated. Contact Kendra at 360 359-8063 or kturner360@gmail.com.
Gordie Quick continued the proud LR and Quick tradition of presenting a freshly-picked zucchini from his garden to the new president of Lakewood Rotary.
Above: The Sheriff in all of his regalia and bribes after the meeting: badge, sheriff’s hat and zucchini
President Jim announced that so far we have been generous in our giving for fines. About $5216 in fines have been pledged and John Lowney reports that a good deal of it has not actually been paid.
At this point, the Sheriff almost lost control of the meeting, as Jan Gee, Mary Marlin and Barb Spriggs jumped up to tell us all about their weekend in Leavenworth. Scheduled as a time to volunteer at the Courage bike ride for Mary Bridge, the weekend turned out to be a blast for this trio of ladies. They brought gifts back for Jim in the form of a Sheriff’s hat a badge and other stuff, so that was how we came to realize that he has such law enforcement credentials and credibility.
Ed Shannon ponied up big bucks to honor his 55th wedding anniversary. Unless I misheard it, he donated $300 to the Rotary International Foundation!
THE PROGRAM:
Then Barlow Buescher introduced James and Shiru Osundwa of Kenya to discuss their journey, in Rotary, but also from Kenya to America.
Above: James and Shiru present on their journey in life
James, who was inducted about three months ago into Lakewood Rotary, was involved in chartering a new club in Kenya, along with his wife. Kenya, a nation with about 55 million people has about 42 tribes and many different languages. Swahili, however, is the most common language. About 83% of the population are Christians and Muslims amount to about 11 %. Kenya is roughly the same size as Texas. The nation’s exports include tea and coffee, but the country also relies on tourism, largely centered around the wildlife. They said only about 5% of the population has had access to the COVID-19 vaccines. There are many protective measures such as masking used in the stores and other commercial spaces.
James’ mother is better off than most with a 25 acre where she raises corn and other crops.
Both James and Shiru showed photos of their families, with brothers, sisters and many kids.
Unlike James, Shiru grew up in the city. Nairobi in particular. She was very involved in the Madaraka Rotary Club. “Madaraka” is the Swahili word for “independence”. To their surprise, they learned that Rotary International is not only for the wealthy. Anyone who has time and makes an effort can contribute much, they said. Shiru noted that the people and especially the children of Kenya may not have much but they really have joy!
One of Kenya’s greatest needs, Shiru said, is water reservoirs, so that fresh water does not have to be transported over such long distances.
Next they told about their travels in Rotary Group Study Exchanges. James went to Indiana and Shiru to the United Kingdom. About Rotary, Shiru said: “The more you give, the more you get.”
In 2016, they both moved to Redlands, California where they assimilated into the culture. Rotary helped with that too and they also joined a church, which helped them feel a part of things there. Not long ago, they transitioned to Tacoma, which they felt would be a more affordable place. James works as an IT Manager for the City of Tacoma and Shiru works for a company that makes “hard money loans” that often helps finance house flippers. They stayed after the meeting to answer any questions.
THE DRAWING: Rob Erb tried to win the $520 drawing but he drew a white chip worth $5.
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Back in the Saddle
Friday, August 27, 2021 By: Gregory J. Rediske
BACK IN THE SADDLETHE LAKEWOOD KEY for August 27, 2021
Whoopi-ty-aye-oh
Rockin' to and fro
Back in the saddle again
Whoopi-ty-aye-yay
Yes, just like Gene Autrey sang, we’re back in the saddle again. The last time we met as a group for a regular meeting at the Country Club was March 13, 2020. President-elect Mark Edgecomb ran the meeting in President Bill Potter’s absence. It was to be the only meeting Mark would preside over in person. Bulletin writer Irwin-with-lots-of-Ds wrote: “The question of moving forward with our meetings or not is being considered by the Board – not only if we should but where we could meet. PE Mark asked for thoughts from the members. Rick Selden asked Larry Clark to give us an update on what is going on at Clover Park Vocational. Larry reported that all face to face instruction will cease on Tuesday and that the school is setting up a day care center in the Rotunda. Steve Mazoff suggested using the time we would spend at a Rotary meeting be used to help serve the community. Gayle Selden encouraged us to check our emails for opportunities to help and Donna Phillips reminded us to follow health protocols. PE Edgecomb announced a Sportsman’s Dinner committee meeting is to take place right after our meeting and that we are welcome to attend and give our opinion on the matter.”
Yikes, is all I can say. But here we are, hopefully back for good.
Anything new, you ask? Why, yes! Leanna Christian, Rob Erb, Tom George and James Osundwa have spent countless hours (translation: a whole lot of hours, more than you can count on all their fingers and toes combined) planning and buying and setting up our new hybrid gear. The one good thing from this whole pandemic thing is that members can now tune into Lakewood Rotary meetings wherever you are in the universe. And come wintertime, that means many from Arizona and California.
And then it was 12:30, and President Jim Rooks began his first live meeting with enthusiasm, vigor and a nice suit. Bud Montgomery handled Paul Harris, and Chuck Hellar was Sgt-At-Arms and sold raffle tickets, while Mary Horn took pictures.
Guests: Ben Sclair, Jennie Weinand, Shiru Osundwa, Sharon Selden (last two on Zoom)
Visiting Rotarians: AG Tony Camoroda
Puffins in the house: Wendy McGowan, James Osundwa, Anthony Veliz (Zoom)
President Jim knows how to start a meeting: with a new member! Eric Warn sponsored Connie Coleman-Lacadie. Connie came here by way of the Army after 8 years in Berlin. She eventually made her way to the FAA, and now retirement. She spent twelve years on the Clover Park School Board, is President of the Sister Cities Association in Lakewood, and volunteers for Mary Bridge. She is married to Michael, and we all look forward to her involvement. Welcome, Connie!
Birthdays and Anniversaries
Abbott and Costello, errrr…..Greg Horn and Chris Kimball did their long-dormant routine, as usual having worked exhaustively until it hummed to perfection. Horn handled the Lakewood Rotary anniversaries, highlighted by Ron Irwin at 40, Rick Selden at 48 and Ralph Johnson at 59. One more year in Lakewood Rotary and Ralph gets a special visit by the District Governor (a real one, not the retired one in the house). A million wedding anniversaries were announced, headed by Zawilski at 52, Hellar at 54, Fulton at 57, and Quick at 69. Gordy got married two weeks before I was born. Inquiring minds want to know, I’m sure.
Birthdays: Tell us your favorite song and Morris will play it on the trumpet! Except it’s not the same as banging on a drum, Chris….Morris faked a few, as able.
Morris Northcutt: “Romanza” off his new album
Carole Wier: “I Left My Heart in San Francisco”
John Magnuson: “Growing Old Together”
Wendy McGowan: “Happy Birthday” (just to help Morris out)
Terry Roarke: “Over the Rainbow”
John Lowney: “Margaritaville”
Above: Morris Northcutt
Greg Horn then read Ward Fletcher’s obituary/tribute, with a get-together coming in the future. Greg also announced that it has been 7 months since a new case of wild polio has been reported. So close…..
Sunshine report:
John Forkenbrock has resigned from the committee for health reasons, so President Jim asked for a volunteer or volunteers to fill this position. (Good wishes, John!! And thanks for all of your Sunshine reporting.)
(Late addition to the report: former member Virginia Hillyer has “Delta pneumonia and will be intubated (with an) induced coma for 2-6 weeks or so. Asking for your fervent prayers.”
Sally Smith announced the following:
"Pierce County welcomes all who seek freedom and refuge from the oppressive Taliban regime and invites the Pierce County community to volunteer through Lutheran Immigration & Refugee Services and other programs to help our new neighbors find affordable housing, employment, food and mentorship to help them transition into our community in their new home country."
World Relief Seattle is asking individuals or groups to donate new items (list included at website) or encouraging groups to Build a Welcome Kit. https://worldrelief.org/seattle/get-involved/donate-goods/welcome-kits/
The City of Lakewood has been collecting this week and will continue to accept donations of dishes, towels, bedding, and other household essentials to be deposited into a drop box inside City Hall.
World Relief Seattle has provided an excellent tip sheet on how to select and prepare items for donation. Here is a clip in case you want it:
Lutheran Immigration & Refugee Services, or LIRS, is a faith-based organization that has helped welcome more than 500,000 refugees and immigrants unto the United States over the past 80 years. The Pierce County Resolution identified this group for volunteering. An online form allows individuals or groups to identify the type of volunteer opportunities LIRS needs in the Seattle-Tacoma area (https://www.tfaforms.com/4922177) Questions, please ask.
Greg Rediske asked for applications for the Larry Saunders Community Service Award, on behalf of the Lakewood Community Foundation Fund (which our club co-founded). Past winners include Diane Formoso, Lakewood Rotary, Alan Billingsley, and last year, The Selden Family. Call Greg, Nicole Hancock, or go online to www.lakewoodfoundation.org.
Generous Giving, aka Fines:
Rob Erb: “What a crew!”, he said: Tom George, James Osundwa, Leanna Christian. $100
Gayle Selden: “Did you know you can’t get to the Club from the north via Gravelly Lake Drive?”, like for the last month plus, she said, embarrassed. $20
Steve Mazoff: Thanks for the new in-person memories, in Jim Rooks’ honor. $20
Jim Rooks: “I goofed” (which time?) $20
Gary Fulton: Wedding anniversary (57), “I hate Zoom”, $100
Bill Potter: $5, for his Past President’s badge. Way, way past…..
The Program:
How do you get a trumpet player to play softly?
Take away his instrument.
Why do trumpet players put drumsticks on the dash of their car?
So they can park in the handicapped spot. (This one’s for Kimball: couldn’t resist)
St Peter is checking ID's at the Pearly Gates, and first comes a Texan. "Tell me, what have you done in life?" says St. Peter. The Texan says, "Well, I struck oil, so I became rich, but I didn't sit on my laurels--I divided all my money among my entire family in my will, so our descendants are all set for about three generations." St. Peter says, "That's quite something. Come on in. Next!" The second guy in line has been listening, so he says, "I struck it big in the stock market, but I didn't selfishly just provide for my own like that Texan guy. I donated five million to Save the Children." "Wonderful!" says Saint Peter. "Come in. Who's next?" The third guy has been listening, and says timidly with a downcast look, "Well, I only made five thousand dollars in my entire lifetime." "Heavens!" says St. Peter. "You must have been a trumpet player.”
Q: What do you call a successful trumpet player? A: A guy whose wife has 2 jobs.
A B flat, a G flat, and an E flat walk into a bar, and the bartender says, "Sorry, we can't serve minors"
In a small town, a man just opened a small store selling trumpets and guns. One day his neighbor pays him a visit and says, "So how is your strange business going?"
"What do you mean strange?"
"Because you sell only trumpets and guns!"
"So?"
"Well, let me put it this way, what do you sell the most, trumpets or guns?"
"It evens itself out. Each time a customer buys a trumpet, one of his neighbors buys a gun."
What does a trumpet have in common with King Tut? They have the fact that both toot in common.
The Trumpet Program:
There. Got that out of the way. Bill Potter introduced (wait for it….) a trumpet player! Not just any trumpet player, either, but a world-renowned, world-traveled trumpet player. And one who has been a member of Lakewood Rotary since 2006 (spotty attendance being his only crime). Morris Northcutt graduated from UPS with a mathematics major and a music minor (the former to keep his mom happy). He is the owner of Cloud Easy 4 (website developer) and Northcutt Commercial Properties. Morris has played with everyone but the New York Philharmonic, based on what I heard Bill recite. Morris recounted how he began having people close to him die, beginning in 2011 and continuing seemingly non-stop. This led him to the revelation that if he wanted to pursue this music thing, NOW was the time. All of this work brought him to the recording project, resulting in TONADA. Morris was contacted on Instagram by a Latin Grammy winner, leading to extended conversations (Google translate helped) and finally a plan to make a record. (Or more properly, make a recording….). Morris recorded his part in his bedroom, while the orchestra was located in Venezuela. All arrangements were custom, taking about 30 days each to prepare. The executive producer was Morris: meaning, he “handled” the finances. TONADA has been streamed in over 50 countries, with 150 streams per day so far: exceptional for a new artist. Songwriters included Jerry Reed (yes, that Nashville-Jerry Reed), Raphael Mendez (a hero of Morris’), Astor Piazzolia, Jay Ungar (bluegrass king) and Simon Diaz. This bulletin writer wrote a one-word review on Apple iTunes: “Beautiful!” Morris hopes you have a nice glass of wine while listening. Add some romance for extra enjoyment.
Stream it (and/or buy it): https://songwhip.com/morrisnorthcutt/tonada
Buy the physical CD: https://trumpetmouthpiece.com/collections/accessories/products/morris-northcutt-tonada-trumpet-cd/?ltclid=0b21d44f-e4ff-4fea-8325-b68073865c35
And last but not least: the drawing. Almost $500, or $5, depending on the color chip. Terry Roarke went with the latter, but not by choice.
My apologies for not having any Swedish jokes. Next time.
Royal “Ward” Fletcher
September 1, 1931 – June 29, 2021
Olympia, Washington
Ward was an adventurer from a young age. He grew up in Mossyrock, Washington, camping fishing, hunting, and woodcutting and mushrooming. Those were life-long activities he enjoyed with his many friends and family members. Ward passed away at 89 years of age, June 29, 2021, at his sister, Dayle Workman’s home in Olympia, Washington. He was a skilled draftsman and carpenter, building and remodeling houses and businesses, some of which he managed. Ward was an active and proud Rotarian for over twenty-one years with Lakewood Rotary. His volunteer work with Rotary involved numerous local fund-raising and civic events, such as the Courage Classic and travel to Latvia to help build a hospital. Ward received the Rotarian of the Year Award (2005-2006) and was a Paul Harris Fellow and Major Donor to the Rotary Foundation.
As a remembrance, Ward requested donations be made to the Lakewood Rotary. Donations can be sent in Ward’s name to: Lakewood Rotary, PO Box 99786 Lakewood WA 98496
We will miss you Ward and your willingness to serve others!
Anything new, you ask? Why, yes! Leanna Christian, Rob Erb, Tom George and James Osundwa have spent countless hours (translation: a whole lot of hours, more than you can count on all their fingers and toes combined) planning and buying and setting up our new hybrid gear. The one good thing from this whole pandemic thing is that members can now tune into Lakewood Rotary meetings wherever you are in the universe. And come wintertime, that means many from Arizona and California.
And then it was 12:30, and President Jim Rooks began his first live meeting with enthusiasm, vigor and a nice suit. Bud Montgomery handled Paul Harris, and Chuck Hellar was Sgt-At-Arms and sold raffle tickets, while Mary Horn took pictures.
Guests: Ben Sclair, Jennie Weinand, Shiru Osundwa, Sharon Selden (last two on Zoom)
Visiting Rotarians: AG Tony Camoroda
Puffins in the house: Wendy McGowan, James Osundwa, Anthony Veliz (Zoom)
President Jim knows how to start a meeting: with a new member! Eric Warn sponsored Connie Coleman-Lacadie. Connie came here by way of the Army after 8 years in Berlin. She eventually made her way to the FAA, and now retirement. She spent twelve years on the Clover Park School Board, is President of the Sister Cities Association in Lakewood, and volunteers for Mary Bridge. She is married to Michael, and we all look forward to her involvement. Welcome, Connie!
Birthdays and Anniversaries
Abbott and Costello, errrr…..Greg Horn and Chris Kimball did their long-dormant routine, as usual having worked exhaustively until it hummed to perfection. Horn handled the Lakewood Rotary anniversaries, highlighted by Ron Irwin at 40, Rick Selden at 48 and Ralph Johnson at 59. One more year in Lakewood Rotary and Ralph gets a special visit by the District Governor (a real one, not the retired one in the house). A million wedding anniversaries were announced, headed by Zawilski at 52, Hellar at 54, Fulton at 57, and Quick at 69. Gordy got married two weeks before I was born. Inquiring minds want to know, I’m sure.
Birthdays: Tell us your favorite song and Morris will play it on the trumpet! Except it’s not the same as banging on a drum, Chris….Morris faked a few, as able.
Morris Northcutt: “Romanza” off his new album
Carole Wier: “I Left My Heart in San Francisco”
John Magnuson: “Growing Old Together”
Wendy McGowan: “Happy Birthday” (just to help Morris out)
Terry Roarke: “Over the Rainbow”
John Lowney: “Margaritaville”
Above: Morris Northcutt
Greg Horn then read Ward Fletcher’s obituary/tribute, with a get-together coming in the future. Greg also announced that it has been 7 months since a new case of wild polio has been reported. So close…..
Sunshine report:
John Forkenbrock has resigned from the committee for health reasons, so President Jim asked for a volunteer or volunteers to fill this position. (Good wishes, John!! And thanks for all of your Sunshine reporting.)
(Late addition to the report: former member Virginia Hillyer has “Delta pneumonia and will be intubated (with an) induced coma for 2-6 weeks or so. Asking for your fervent prayers.”
Sally Smith announced the following:
"Pierce County welcomes all who seek freedom and refuge from the oppressive Taliban regime and invites the Pierce County community to volunteer through Lutheran Immigration & Refugee Services and other programs to help our new neighbors find affordable housing, employment, food and mentorship to help them transition into our community in their new home country."
World Relief Seattle is asking individuals or groups to donate new items (list included at website) or encouraging groups to Build a Welcome Kit. https://worldrelief.org/seattle/get-involved/donate-goods/welcome-kits/
The City of Lakewood has been collecting this week and will continue to accept donations of dishes, towels, bedding, and other household essentials to be deposited into a drop box inside City Hall.
World Relief Seattle has provided an excellent tip sheet on how to select and prepare items for donation. Here is a clip in case you want it:
Lutheran Immigration & Refugee Services, or LIRS, is a faith-based organization that has helped welcome more than 500,000 refugees and immigrants unto the United States over the past 80 years. The Pierce County Resolution identified this group for volunteering. An online form allows individuals or groups to identify the type of volunteer opportunities LIRS needs in the Seattle-Tacoma area (https://www.tfaforms.com/4922177) Questions, please ask.
Greg Rediske asked for applications for the Larry Saunders Community Service Award, on behalf of the Lakewood Community Foundation Fund (which our club co-founded). Past winners include Diane Formoso, Lakewood Rotary, Alan Billingsley, and last year, The Selden Family. Call Greg, Nicole Hancock, or go online to www.lakewoodfoundation.org.
Generous Giving, aka Fines:
Rob Erb: “What a crew!”, he said: Tom George, James Osundwa, Leanna Christian. $100
Gayle Selden: “Did you know you can’t get to the Club from the north via Gravelly Lake Drive?”, like for the last month plus, she said, embarrassed. $20
Steve Mazoff: Thanks for the new in-person memories, in Jim Rooks’ honor. $20
Jim Rooks: “I goofed” (which time?) $20
Gary Fulton: Wedding anniversary (57), “I hate Zoom”, $100
Bill Potter: $5, for his Past President’s badge. Way, way past…..
The Program:
How do you get a trumpet player to play softly?
Take away his instrument.
Why do trumpet players put drumsticks on the dash of their car?
So they can park in the handicapped spot. (This one’s for Kimball: couldn’t resist)
St Peter is checking ID's at the Pearly Gates, and first comes a Texan. "Tell me, what have you done in life?" says St. Peter. The Texan says, "Well, I struck oil, so I became rich, but I didn't sit on my laurels--I divided all my money among my entire family in my will, so our descendants are all set for about three generations." St. Peter says, "That's quite something. Come on in. Next!" The second guy in line has been listening, so he says, "I struck it big in the stock market, but I didn't selfishly just provide for my own like that Texan guy. I donated five million to Save the Children." "Wonderful!" says Saint Peter. "Come in. Who's next?" The third guy has been listening, and says timidly with a downcast look, "Well, I only made five thousand dollars in my entire lifetime." "Heavens!" says St. Peter. "You must have been a trumpet player.”
Q: What do you call a successful trumpet player? A: A guy whose wife has 2 jobs.
A B flat, a G flat, and an E flat walk into a bar, and the bartender says, "Sorry, we can't serve minors"
In a small town, a man just opened a small store selling trumpets and guns. One day his neighbor pays him a visit and says, "So how is your strange business going?"
"What do you mean strange?"
"Because you sell only trumpets and guns!"
"So?"
"Well, let me put it this way, what do you sell the most, trumpets or guns?"
"It evens itself out. Each time a customer buys a trumpet, one of his neighbors buys a gun."
What does a trumpet have in common with King Tut? They have the fact that both toot in common.
The Trumpet Program:
There. Got that out of the way. Bill Potter introduced (wait for it….) a trumpet player! Not just any trumpet player, either, but a world-renowned, world-traveled trumpet player. And one who has been a member of Lakewood Rotary since 2006 (spotty attendance being his only crime). Morris Northcutt graduated from UPS with a mathematics major and a music minor (the former to keep his mom happy). He is the owner of Cloud Easy 4 (website developer) and Northcutt Commercial Properties. Morris has played with everyone but the New York Philharmonic, based on what I heard Bill recite. Morris recounted how he began having people close to him die, beginning in 2011 and continuing seemingly non-stop. This led him to the revelation that if he wanted to pursue this music thing, NOW was the time. All of this work brought him to the recording project, resulting in TONADA. Morris was contacted on Instagram by a Latin Grammy winner, leading to extended conversations (Google translate helped) and finally a plan to make a record. (Or more properly, make a recording….). Morris recorded his part in his bedroom, while the orchestra was located in Venezuela. All arrangements were custom, taking about 30 days each to prepare. The executive producer was Morris: meaning, he “handled” the finances. TONADA has been streamed in over 50 countries, with 150 streams per day so far: exceptional for a new artist. Songwriters included Jerry Reed (yes, that Nashville-Jerry Reed), Raphael Mendez (a hero of Morris’), Astor Piazzolia, Jay Ungar (bluegrass king) and Simon Diaz. This bulletin writer wrote a one-word review on Apple iTunes: “Beautiful!” Morris hopes you have a nice glass of wine while listening. Add some romance for extra enjoyment.
Stream it (and/or buy it): https://songwhip.com/morrisnorthcutt/tonada
Buy the physical CD: https://trumpetmouthpiece.com/collections/accessories/products/morris-northcutt-tonada-trumpet-cd/?ltclid=0b21d44f-e4ff-4fea-8325-b68073865c35
And last but not least: the drawing. Almost $500, or $5, depending on the color chip. Terry Roarke went with the latter, but not by choice.
My apologies for not having any Swedish jokes. Next time.
Royal “Ward” Fletcher
September 1, 1931 – June 29, 2021
Olympia, Washington
Ward was an adventurer from a young age. He grew up in Mossyrock, Washington, camping fishing, hunting, and woodcutting and mushrooming. Those were life-long activities he enjoyed with his many friends and family members. Ward passed away at 89 years of age, June 29, 2021, at his sister, Dayle Workman’s home in Olympia, Washington. He was a skilled draftsman and carpenter, building and remodeling houses and businesses, some of which he managed. Ward was an active and proud Rotarian for over twenty-one years with Lakewood Rotary. His volunteer work with Rotary involved numerous local fund-raising and civic events, such as the Courage Classic and travel to Latvia to help build a hospital. Ward received the Rotarian of the Year Award (2005-2006) and was a Paul Harris Fellow and Major Donor to the Rotary Foundation.
As a remembrance, Ward requested donations be made to the Lakewood Rotary. Donations can be sent in Ward’s name to: Lakewood Rotary, PO Box 99786 Lakewood WA 98496
We will miss you Ward and your willingness to serve others!
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A Riddle or a Puzzle
Sunday, August 22, 2021 By: John W. Magnuson
A Riddle or a Puzzle by John MagnusonTHE LAKEWOOD KEY for August 20, 2021
For example: Which is this? Why can’t we take a picture of a man with a wooden leg?
How about this? The day before two days after the day before tomorrow is Saturday. What day is it today?
Can you honestly answer this and which is it – riddle or puzzle? The Washington State Legislature passed bills that “hamstring First Responders” to do their jobs. Why? Truly a riveting presentation at the meeting by Chief Mike Zaro of Lakewood Police Department and Chief Jim Sharp, 36 years of service as a fire-fighter and 8 years as West Pierce Fire District Chief. The task of a Rotary program committee has always been to inform, educate and entertain. This presentation checked two of those boxes thoroughly.
Given an Opening…
President Jim Rooks opened the meeting with Jan Gee’s meaningful invocation followed by Jim leading us in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America. President Jim expressed his gratitude to Leanna Christian for making the Zoom meeting work so flawlessly and her contribution to upcoming hybrid meetings. He also thanked John Lowney, who looked suspiciously like Greg Rediske, for collecting fines. He went on to apologize to Ole for not realizing he – Ole – is writing this bulletin. Much ado about nothing – not the William Shakespeare play. President Jim’s illegitimate twin, Manus G. Thigpen, Sopchoppy, FL made a surprise appearance to set the record straight. What makes me think that is not the last we’ll see of Sopchoppy’s favorite son this year? Here follows a pitcher of the plaque commemorating where Thigpen proudly attended high school (although his academic career was cut short by Gator hunting season in nineteen hundred and sixty seven.) The Sopchoppy Rotary Club erected the plaque, wouldn’t you know.
He continued….
Wynn Hoffman responded to the call for guests with the introduction of Bob Estrada who has expressed interest in joining the club. Who knows how he’ll feel after witnessing much of the meeting, however. Puffins present were Anthony Veliz, James Osundwa, and Wendy McGowan. The member spotlight was a surprise to the member! Eric Quinn and his band – Memorial Garden – performing Cure All now on a single record… well, not really a record … a vinyl… but not really one of those either… a 45? It is interesting that two Lakewood Rotarians have – let’s ust call them productions – out this week: In addition to Eric, Morris Northcutt’s EP is being released today – 8/20 on Spotify and iTunes.
Above: Morris Northcutt and his new album
I really liked the groove on Cure All and the guitar solo – nice work Eric! There was no Sunshine reported by Brother Forkenbrock. Jan Gee, Don Daniels, Tom George, Bob Zawilski, Rose Stevens and others have been working diligently on grant programs. Often behind the scenes, much has been accomplished with grants that multiply money.
Raising Money through generous….
Joe Quinn was $50 proud of son Eric for his music. Bud Montgomery has had an interesting month so far: getting T-boned in his Honda Odyssey and catching King Salmon – not at the same time, though. $50. Of note: The Richardson’s and the Rediske’s are relieved to hear that the Montgomery Honda Odyssey wasn’t irretrievably damaged and will rejoin the ranks of the Honda Odyssey Automobile Fan Club soon. PP Zawilski went on a cruise that he recommends with faint praise, had an anniversary and enjoyed others (Five Rotarians!) working in his yard. $150. Eric Quinn – for Cure All. $40. Ole turned 47 years old and has been married to Bonnie for 81 years – or something like that. $128. Chief Jim Sharp has been married 24 years. $25. Nicole Hancock has a new house in Gig Harbor, took a two-week trip to Jellystone Park and missed a board meeting. $200.
Contributions to the causes of Rotary….
Which has nothing to do with the following puzzle or riddle?
Surely, if you got the first one you can get this one, even if your name is not Shirley.
Can a cow jump higher than a house? Answer below.
[Mike Zaro's talk provided much food for thought. The Lakewood Key believes in giving its writers the opportunity to provide their opinions, as you will see below. Obviously, this is Ole's unvarnished opinion that many of us may share. But we will note that the following is not the official position of this humble publication, nor the opnion of the Lakewood Key. The Editor.]
Rotary’s Four Way Test is better than all legislation combined.
Wouldn’t it be nice if everything were simpler? If people behaved as if The Golden Rule or The Four Way Test were law? In reading about the laws passed in Washington State this past legislative session it makes one wonder why. So much of what was passed was as a result of efforts in other states to address issues that happen “there” and not “here.” It is as if many felt a moral imperative to do “something” even though there was little evidence of wrongdoing on a scale necessitating such drastic measures. Are we better off now than we were before? Answer this with all the honesty you can muster: do you feel safer as a result of these new laws?
Chief Zaro took the lead in explaining how the LPD is addressing the impact of the legislation. This community is blessed to have Chief Zaro and Chief Sharp at their respective helms. Sixty –four years between them and substantial time leading their forces. Rather than parroting what was said, and risk getting something wrong, I suggest Bulletin readers do their own research. The Internet is absolutely stuffed with articles, recaps, editorials and opinions of what took place in Washington State this past legislative session. If you don’t know where to start, try making sense of the differences between Reasonable Suspicion and Probable Cause and how a Police Officer will respond. Put yourself in an imaginary position of potential harm and ask, “How do I want the First Responders to protect me, my property, my family, my business?” Be honest now and not merely “woke.”
‘Nuf sed.
Who Reads This Stuff?
Ole
Answers:
Key differences between riddles and puzzles: Riddles are generally verbal, whereas puzzles are tangible things. Riddles are intended to make people think and reflect, while puzzles seek to test people’s ability to reason.
A wooden leg is not a camera.
Friday. The “day before tomorrow” is today; “the day before two days after” is really one day after. So if “one day after today is Saturday,” then it must be Friday.
A house can’t jump.
Above: Yogi the Bear. Only Ole knows why this is here! A riddle or a puzzle?
President Jim Rooks opened the meeting with Jan Gee’s meaningful invocation followed by Jim leading us in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America. President Jim expressed his gratitude to Leanna Christian for making the Zoom meeting work so flawlessly and her contribution to upcoming hybrid meetings. He also thanked John Lowney, who looked suspiciously like Greg Rediske, for collecting fines. He went on to apologize to Ole for not realizing he – Ole – is writing this bulletin. Much ado about nothing – not the William Shakespeare play. President Jim’s illegitimate twin, Manus G. Thigpen, Sopchoppy, FL made a surprise appearance to set the record straight. What makes me think that is not the last we’ll see of Sopchoppy’s favorite son this year? Here follows a pitcher of the plaque commemorating where Thigpen proudly attended high school (although his academic career was cut short by Gator hunting season in nineteen hundred and sixty seven.) The Sopchoppy Rotary Club erected the plaque, wouldn’t you know.
He continued….
Wynn Hoffman responded to the call for guests with the introduction of Bob Estrada who has expressed interest in joining the club. Who knows how he’ll feel after witnessing much of the meeting, however. Puffins present were Anthony Veliz, James Osundwa, and Wendy McGowan. The member spotlight was a surprise to the member! Eric Quinn and his band – Memorial Garden – performing Cure All now on a single record… well, not really a record … a vinyl… but not really one of those either… a 45? It is interesting that two Lakewood Rotarians have – let’s ust call them productions – out this week: In addition to Eric, Morris Northcutt’s EP is being released today – 8/20 on Spotify and iTunes.
Above: Morris Northcutt and his new album
I really liked the groove on Cure All and the guitar solo – nice work Eric! There was no Sunshine reported by Brother Forkenbrock. Jan Gee, Don Daniels, Tom George, Bob Zawilski, Rose Stevens and others have been working diligently on grant programs. Often behind the scenes, much has been accomplished with grants that multiply money.
Raising Money through generous….
Joe Quinn was $50 proud of son Eric for his music. Bud Montgomery has had an interesting month so far: getting T-boned in his Honda Odyssey and catching King Salmon – not at the same time, though. $50. Of note: The Richardson’s and the Rediske’s are relieved to hear that the Montgomery Honda Odyssey wasn’t irretrievably damaged and will rejoin the ranks of the Honda Odyssey Automobile Fan Club soon. PP Zawilski went on a cruise that he recommends with faint praise, had an anniversary and enjoyed others (Five Rotarians!) working in his yard. $150. Eric Quinn – for Cure All. $40. Ole turned 47 years old and has been married to Bonnie for 81 years – or something like that. $128. Chief Jim Sharp has been married 24 years. $25. Nicole Hancock has a new house in Gig Harbor, took a two-week trip to Jellystone Park and missed a board meeting. $200.
Contributions to the causes of Rotary….
Which has nothing to do with the following puzzle or riddle?
Surely, if you got the first one you can get this one, even if your name is not Shirley.
Can a cow jump higher than a house? Answer below.
[Mike Zaro's talk provided much food for thought. The Lakewood Key believes in giving its writers the opportunity to provide their opinions, as you will see below. Obviously, this is Ole's unvarnished opinion that many of us may share. But we will note that the following is not the official position of this humble publication, nor the opnion of the Lakewood Key. The Editor.]
Rotary’s Four Way Test is better than all legislation combined.
Wouldn’t it be nice if everything were simpler? If people behaved as if The Golden Rule or The Four Way Test were law? In reading about the laws passed in Washington State this past legislative session it makes one wonder why. So much of what was passed was as a result of efforts in other states to address issues that happen “there” and not “here.” It is as if many felt a moral imperative to do “something” even though there was little evidence of wrongdoing on a scale necessitating such drastic measures. Are we better off now than we were before? Answer this with all the honesty you can muster: do you feel safer as a result of these new laws?
Chief Zaro took the lead in explaining how the LPD is addressing the impact of the legislation. This community is blessed to have Chief Zaro and Chief Sharp at their respective helms. Sixty –four years between them and substantial time leading their forces. Rather than parroting what was said, and risk getting something wrong, I suggest Bulletin readers do their own research. The Internet is absolutely stuffed with articles, recaps, editorials and opinions of what took place in Washington State this past legislative session. If you don’t know where to start, try making sense of the differences between Reasonable Suspicion and Probable Cause and how a Police Officer will respond. Put yourself in an imaginary position of potential harm and ask, “How do I want the First Responders to protect me, my property, my family, my business?” Be honest now and not merely “woke.”
‘Nuf sed.
Who Reads This Stuff?
Ole
Answers:
Key differences between riddles and puzzles: Riddles are generally verbal, whereas puzzles are tangible things. Riddles are intended to make people think and reflect, while puzzles seek to test people’s ability to reason.
A wooden leg is not a camera.
Friday. The “day before tomorrow” is today; “the day before two days after” is really one day after. So if “one day after today is Saturday,” then it must be Friday.
A house can’t jump.
Above: Yogi the Bear. Only Ole knows why this is here! A riddle or a puzzle?
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Ivan Goes Ape
Monday, August 16, 2021 By: Donn Irwin
Ivan Goes Ape Over Meeting Notices or the Lakewood Meeting for Lucky Friday the 13th 2021. (Pick One) By Donn Irwin of Lakewood Key StaffPre game chatter:
Puffin Tom George and his wife were lauded for the auction dinner they provided. Evidently the food was wonderful.
Greg Horn tooted his own……you guessed it…...horn about how busy he is building docks for local lakeside denizens. He even dropped the Trufant name in there.
A discussion was started regarding the number of meeting notices we received from President Jim. A discussion was started regarding the number of meeting notices we received. A discussion was started…...you get the picture. President Jim informed the current listeners that the topic would be addressed shortly during the “regular” meeting.
The “Game Farm” was discussed. Mr. Mark Blanchard stated that we are putting in park benches.
The number of meeting notices was brought up again by a later arrival to the chatter along with the mention of a fine.
It was noted some of our members were out playing golf at McChord golf course (aka Whispering Firs) for a charitable event. Oh, the sacrifices we have to make! I won’t mention any names but did notice that Mr. Erb was absent.
Our leader, Jim Rooks, began the meeting at 12:30 p.m.
Clint Johnson gave the invocation and President Jim led us in the Pledge.
Making our meeting happen:
Meeting set?up: Leanna Christian.
For fines/foundation/etc: John Lowney
Bulletin writer: Donn Irwin
Bulletin photographer: Each and every Rotarian in the meeting!
President Jim then went into his explanation of what had happened with all of the “pmails” as DACdb calls what the rest of got as emails. This writer stopped counting at 6 notifications for the meeting, meeting, meeting figuring that I had been notified enough and that I would just pick one of the messages and hope for the best, best, best. The pmail pandemic cost the Pres a Greenleaf. ($20.00) (I got a total of 12 notices, so thanks Jim but I had to miss the meeting anyway. –Ed.)
Our illustrious leader thanked the set-up team for their hard work in preparing for the upcoming hybrid meetings where we will be face-to-face and in person as well as having concurrent Zoom participation. (Ole, that means they will happen at the same time. I apologize for using big words.)
In 1521 what is now Mexico City fell to the Spanish and the Aztec Empire ended.
Above: Kids love Ivan! (Credit to Donn Irwin and his grand-daughters.)
Puffins and new members present: Wendy McGowan, Rachel Mazoff, James Osundwa and Steve Saalfeld.
Sunshine: As reported earlier in the week by Greg Rediske, long time LR member Joe Ghilarducci passed away. A copy of the obit is at the end of this Bulletin.
Above: Joe Ghilarducci and the flag of Italy (Thanks to Greg Rediske)
Announcements: The Courage Classic is canceled. Living Access Support Alliance (LASA) is having a breakfast Wednesday, October 22ns at the McGavick Center at Clover Park Technical College. The cost is free but donate what you can to help the homeless.
Pres Jim gave a shout out to Sally Porter Smith and the Program Committee for their hard work. Sally asked for help with leads in lining up speakers with an emphasis on businesses.
Alfred Hitchcock was born in London, England on August 13, 1899.
President Jim had the honor and privilege of inducting a new member into Lakewood Rotary – one Anthony Veliz. Coincidentally, Jim also sponsored Anthony. Mr. Veliz is a duly elected member of the Clover Park School Board and is looking forward to working with his new fellow Rotarians on projects that help the Lakewood community. Anthony was born in Tacoma but attended school in Lakewood. He graduated from Bates through the Running Start program and now runs a cleaning business. (Writers note: Anthony is a nephew of a former Rotarian and President of the Tacoma Narrows Club, Jose Veliz, but we shouldn’t hold that against him).
Julia Child passed away on this day in 2004.
Mickey Mantle passed in 1995.
Fines: Jim Bisceglia paid a fine for his wedding anniversary - $100.00. He claims that the check is in the mail. Kendra Riconosciuto paid $20.00 to brag about her summer intern. Said intern just happens to be John Lowney’s grandson. James Osundwa managed to come back from Las Vegas after a long weekend with his wife with enough coin to pay a $50.00 fine. He also mentioned that his Mom was here visiting from Kenya. That answers the question of who was watching the kids whilst Mom and Dad played. Steve Saalfeld stated that he was about to take a second child off to college (San Antonio). I didn’t get what he paid for the privilege. Bob Peterson donated $60.00 to the cause for 60 years of marriage.
In 1898 the US Army took control of Manila Bay in the Philippines.
The Program:
Speaker: Earl Borgert, Chairman of the Board
The Legacy of Ivan the Gorilla®: The I.V.A.N. Foundation
President Jim introduced my brother from another mother, Ron Irwin, who in turn introduced our program speaker - his nephew Earl Borgert. Ron, in his long-winded introduction stated (not in brief) that his nephew holds several board positions and has a day job.
Earl: Ivan’s story has shaped a large part of Earl’s life. As we know from our member Ron and from previous presentations, Ivan stayed with the Johnson family in his infancy and after three and a half years (and the total trashing of the Johnson home) Ivan went to live at the B&I on South Tacoma Way. In 1994 Ivan moved to Zoo Atlanta and was able to commingle with other gorillas for the first time since he was an infant. Earl noted that, because Ivan knew only humans for so long, he was the only gorilla that would approach visitors at Zoo Atlanta.
Ivan lived at the zoo until his passing on August 12th 2012 at age 50. At his peak Ivan weighed 550 pounds!
The bronze statue of Ivan that is at the entrance of Pt. Defiance Zoo and Aquarium was commissioned by the Friends of Ivan Foundation. They chose local artist Doug Granum to design the statue and Two Ravens Studio in Tacoma to cast the bronze. The Milgard Family donated $125,000 of the $250,000 needed to create and cast the statue and cad cam technology was used for the first time to create the mold for the casting.
Above: And Ivan loved kids too! (Credit to Donn Irwin)
In 2015 a book was published that was written by Katherine Applegate, “The One and Only Ivan”, based on Ivan’s life story. Disney made a movie from the book.
You can find out more about Ivan by going to ivanthegorilla.org. The Ivan Foundation is focused on the importance of conservation and protecting endangered species. The Foundation works with Central Washington University Primate Behavior Program.
Earl is trying to raise funds to travel to Africa so that he can bring Ivan’s ashes back to Washington. He puts on Zoom meetings with kids to share Ivan’s story and promote conservation. Earl said that when we buy items from the website, a portion of the sale goes to support the Foundation. Earl mentioned during his talk that some of the patina on Ivan’s statue has been rubbed off by all of the kids that crawl up on Ivan at the entrance to zoo. My two granddaughters have contributed to that change of patina. Our granddaughters are big fans (they haveread the book AND seen the movie).
The floor was opened for Q & A.
Q. Why was Zoo Atlanta chosen? They have the best gorilla program in the country and the weather in Atlanta is better suited for gorillas.
Q. To Ron Irwin: Did Ivan live with you. Ron: No – only with the Johnson’s. Side bar: Ron used Ivan to meet girls when cruising 6th Ave in Tacoma. (Is this an unsubstantiated rumor, fake news or fact)?
Q. How were Ivan’s communication skills. Ron: Couldn’t really communicate but they knew what he wanted.
Q. His origins: Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Q. Cost to feed him. Expensive. Ron – 60% fruits and vegetables, 40% monkey chow.
President Jim thanked Earl for the presentation, reminded the Board of the meeting this Thursday and closed the meeting at 1:29PM
Clint Johnson gave the invocation and President Jim led us in the Pledge.
Making our meeting happen:
Meeting set?up: Leanna Christian.
For fines/foundation/etc: John Lowney
Bulletin writer: Donn Irwin
Bulletin photographer: Each and every Rotarian in the meeting!
President Jim then went into his explanation of what had happened with all of the “pmails” as DACdb calls what the rest of got as emails. This writer stopped counting at 6 notifications for the meeting, meeting, meeting figuring that I had been notified enough and that I would just pick one of the messages and hope for the best, best, best. The pmail pandemic cost the Pres a Greenleaf. ($20.00) (I got a total of 12 notices, so thanks Jim but I had to miss the meeting anyway. –Ed.)
Our illustrious leader thanked the set-up team for their hard work in preparing for the upcoming hybrid meetings where we will be face-to-face and in person as well as having concurrent Zoom participation. (Ole, that means they will happen at the same time. I apologize for using big words.)
In 1521 what is now Mexico City fell to the Spanish and the Aztec Empire ended.
Above: Kids love Ivan! (Credit to Donn Irwin and his grand-daughters.)
Puffins and new members present: Wendy McGowan, Rachel Mazoff, James Osundwa and Steve Saalfeld.
Sunshine: As reported earlier in the week by Greg Rediske, long time LR member Joe Ghilarducci passed away. A copy of the obit is at the end of this Bulletin.
Above: Joe Ghilarducci and the flag of Italy (Thanks to Greg Rediske)
Announcements: The Courage Classic is canceled. Living Access Support Alliance (LASA) is having a breakfast Wednesday, October 22ns at the McGavick Center at Clover Park Technical College. The cost is free but donate what you can to help the homeless.
Pres Jim gave a shout out to Sally Porter Smith and the Program Committee for their hard work. Sally asked for help with leads in lining up speakers with an emphasis on businesses.
Alfred Hitchcock was born in London, England on August 13, 1899.
President Jim had the honor and privilege of inducting a new member into Lakewood Rotary – one Anthony Veliz. Coincidentally, Jim also sponsored Anthony. Mr. Veliz is a duly elected member of the Clover Park School Board and is looking forward to working with his new fellow Rotarians on projects that help the Lakewood community. Anthony was born in Tacoma but attended school in Lakewood. He graduated from Bates through the Running Start program and now runs a cleaning business. (Writers note: Anthony is a nephew of a former Rotarian and President of the Tacoma Narrows Club, Jose Veliz, but we shouldn’t hold that against him).
Julia Child passed away on this day in 2004.
Mickey Mantle passed in 1995.
Fines: Jim Bisceglia paid a fine for his wedding anniversary - $100.00. He claims that the check is in the mail. Kendra Riconosciuto paid $20.00 to brag about her summer intern. Said intern just happens to be John Lowney’s grandson. James Osundwa managed to come back from Las Vegas after a long weekend with his wife with enough coin to pay a $50.00 fine. He also mentioned that his Mom was here visiting from Kenya. That answers the question of who was watching the kids whilst Mom and Dad played. Steve Saalfeld stated that he was about to take a second child off to college (San Antonio). I didn’t get what he paid for the privilege. Bob Peterson donated $60.00 to the cause for 60 years of marriage.
In 1898 the US Army took control of Manila Bay in the Philippines.
The Program:
Speaker: Earl Borgert, Chairman of the Board
The Legacy of Ivan the Gorilla®: The I.V.A.N. Foundation
President Jim introduced my brother from another mother, Ron Irwin, who in turn introduced our program speaker - his nephew Earl Borgert. Ron, in his long-winded introduction stated (not in brief) that his nephew holds several board positions and has a day job.
Earl: Ivan’s story has shaped a large part of Earl’s life. As we know from our member Ron and from previous presentations, Ivan stayed with the Johnson family in his infancy and after three and a half years (and the total trashing of the Johnson home) Ivan went to live at the B&I on South Tacoma Way. In 1994 Ivan moved to Zoo Atlanta and was able to commingle with other gorillas for the first time since he was an infant. Earl noted that, because Ivan knew only humans for so long, he was the only gorilla that would approach visitors at Zoo Atlanta.
Ivan lived at the zoo until his passing on August 12th 2012 at age 50. At his peak Ivan weighed 550 pounds!
The bronze statue of Ivan that is at the entrance of Pt. Defiance Zoo and Aquarium was commissioned by the Friends of Ivan Foundation. They chose local artist Doug Granum to design the statue and Two Ravens Studio in Tacoma to cast the bronze. The Milgard Family donated $125,000 of the $250,000 needed to create and cast the statue and cad cam technology was used for the first time to create the mold for the casting.
Above: And Ivan loved kids too! (Credit to Donn Irwin)
In 2015 a book was published that was written by Katherine Applegate, “The One and Only Ivan”, based on Ivan’s life story. Disney made a movie from the book.
You can find out more about Ivan by going to ivanthegorilla.org. The Ivan Foundation is focused on the importance of conservation and protecting endangered species. The Foundation works with Central Washington University Primate Behavior Program.
Earl is trying to raise funds to travel to Africa so that he can bring Ivan’s ashes back to Washington. He puts on Zoom meetings with kids to share Ivan’s story and promote conservation. Earl said that when we buy items from the website, a portion of the sale goes to support the Foundation. Earl mentioned during his talk that some of the patina on Ivan’s statue has been rubbed off by all of the kids that crawl up on Ivan at the entrance to zoo. My two granddaughters have contributed to that change of patina. Our granddaughters are big fans (they haveread the book AND seen the movie).
The floor was opened for Q & A.
Q. Why was Zoo Atlanta chosen? They have the best gorilla program in the country and the weather in Atlanta is better suited for gorillas.
Q. To Ron Irwin: Did Ivan live with you. Ron: No – only with the Johnson’s. Side bar: Ron used Ivan to meet girls when cruising 6th Ave in Tacoma. (Is this an unsubstantiated rumor, fake news or fact)?
Q. How were Ivan’s communication skills. Ron: Couldn’t really communicate but they knew what he wanted.
Q. His origins: Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Q. Cost to feed him. Expensive. Ron – 60% fruits and vegetables, 40% monkey chow.
President Jim thanked Earl for the presentation, reminded the Board of the meeting this Thursday and closed the meeting at 1:29PM
| He was a Lakewood Rotarians from 1970 to 2017 Joe Meade Ghilarducci was born in Tacoma, Washington, on October 12, 1937. He was the youngest son of Lawrence "Gilly" and Dorothy "Dotty" Ghilarducci. He lived his entire life in Lakewood, WA (previously part of Tacoma), eventually graduating from Clover Park High School in 1955. Joe initially attended Stanford University, completing two years then enlisting in the U.S. Army for a two-year term. After his discharge he chose to finish his education at the University of Washington. It was here that he met his future wife, Carolyn Davis, and they were married on April 10, 1960. They both graduated in June of 1961. Joe went to work for Merrill Lynch, Pierce Fenner & Smith the following month, and settled down with his bride in Lakewood. He was to remain with Merrill Lynch for over 35 years, retiring as a Vice President in August of 1997. Joe was active in local education and business organizations most of his life, serving on the boards of the Clover Park School District, the Lakewood Rotary, The United Way, Boy Scouts of America, Tacoma Country and Golf Club, and others. He also served as president of the Greater Lakes Mental Health Foundation and his local PTA, as well as coaching two Little League teams each season. Joe played a "little" golf, and was a dedicated Seattle Mariners fan. He and Carolyn had three children together. After retiring, Joe and Carolyn took the opportunity to travel, visiting Joe's ancestral home of Italy several times as well as many other parts of the world. After Carolyn's passing in June of 2017, he lived a quiet life in his home of 55 years in Lakewood. Joe passed away peacefully at St. Clare Hospital in Lakewood. Joe is survived by his sons Paul and Joe, his daughter Rena, and his brother Lawrence "Larry" Jr, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He will be remembered as a man of kindness and generosity, who cared for his wife and family above all else, and he will be missed. In light of the current health crisis and concerns surrounding public gatherings, the family has chosen to hold a small private service, with a Celebration of Life planned for 2022. Donations to the Alzheimer's Association in Joe's memory would be gratefully appreciated.
|
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Uff Da!
Saturday, August 7, 2021 By: Gregory J. Rediske
Uff da!THE LAKEWOOD KEY for August 6, 2021 by Greg Rediske
The old man was sitting on the examining table in Dr. Rooks’ office, having his hearing checked. Jim poked his light scope in the old man’s ear and said, “Hey, you have a suppository in your ear!” “Rats,” said the old man. “Now I know where my hearing aid went.”
It's always fun to have a new president to pester with puns and jokes. Sadly, the bank of Ear, Nose, Throat jokes is quite emaciated. As you can tell. But we will carry on nonetheless because your bulletin writing committee will not be deterred. But we do wish Jim was a lawyer….
Two years ago, Dr. Rooks told me I was going deaf. I haven’t heard from him since.
When you see italics, that’s when you know the joke starts. And speaking of starting, the Lakewood Rotary meeting of August 6 did. We learned plenty before 12:30 started, including how Miami Dolphins’ retired fullback Larry Csonka proudly wore his Nehru jacket as a rookie despite being belittled by the veterans on the team. (That in response to John Warner’s having lost his Nehru jacket at some juncture--or maybe he never had one-- but would wear it, if he had one, to the Tom George-auction item Indian dinner at John’s house that evening.) Mike Murtha is in Hawaii again but plans on paying $10 for each trip there. Bob Hammar proclaimed “I need some help, Sweetheart” to all, but only because he thought he was talking to Mary but was really unmuted. And so it went prior to the imaginary clanging of the bell at 12:30 by President Rooks, he the retired ENT doc.
Andrew Kruse gave a Rotary invocation, and Bob Hammar led all his sweethearts in the Pledge, specifically the one originated by President Eisenhower in 1954 (added “under God”). Puffins in attendance included Carl Bronkema, Rachel Mazoff and Wendy McGowan. Mary Jo Strom-Copland was the Member Spotlight and suggested that we not hamper our travel agent with too many particulars: let them do their job and get you a good trip.
Above: Mary Jo
I went to my Ear Nose and Throat doctor for sinus infections, migraines, and ringing in my ears. After a battery of tests he took me aside for my diagnosis: "I am afraid your problems are all in your head."
Sunshine Report:
President Jim passed along the sad news that Gary Fulton’s brother, Richard, recently passed away. Richard was a Lakewood Rotarian for a short while in the 1980s. Gary’s 102-year old mother is ill, also. Steve Mazoff noted that Bud Montgomery was t-boned by someone running a red light on Bridgeport. He’s OK, but the car is battered (but fixable).
My doctor told me I was going deaf. The news was hard for me to hear.
Announcements:
(Pardon the poor reporting below. My computer told me that I was unstable and punished me by making things freeze up periodically.)
--Need more bodies for the Set-up Committee. Technical and otherwise, both. See Rob Erb
Above: Mary Marlin and Barb Spriggs on the Roadster Romp
--Peanut Butter Challenge. Go to www.lakewoodrotary.com, Make A Payment, and follow the bouncing ball to contribute. We have a challenge from the Kenai Club in Alaska. If we win, it’s a fishing trip for two up there. We haven’t contemplated a loss, apparently. (It occurs to me that some of you younger members might be unaware of the “follow the bouncing ball” reference. We are always interested in educating here at the Lakewood Key: The bouncing ball is a device used in motion picture films and video recordings to visually indicate the rhythm of a song, helping audiences to sing along with live or prerecorded music. Wikipedia) Treasurer Lowney noted we have received $450 already. PDG Greg Horn noted that the peanut butter this purchases stays here; it does not go to Alaska. Most $$ collected per capita wins the trip.
--Jim updated us on a Johns Hopkins report on COVID. The U.S. has 35.4 million confirmed cases total and more than 600,000 deaths attributed to COVID. Follow recommended guidelines, with the main point: don’t die.
--For all things Lakewood Rotary, go to www.lakewoodrotary.com, including to access DACdb.
I had an ear infection, so I went to the doctor, who took a look and quickly diagnosed it and wrote a prescription and handed it to me. Dr. Rooks: “It's just an ear infection, so 4 drops of this daily should clear it right up.” Me: “Cortisporin? So, I put the drops in my mouth?” Dr. Rooks: “No, no, no, you put it in your ear!” Me: “Oh, I read the name and Cortisporin sounds like something you'd take orally.” Dr. Rooks: “Nope, in the ear.” Me: “It's a good thing that you didn't prescribe me analgesics.”
Fines: Jim says please-please-please R.O.A.R. Which stands for Rat On A Rotarian. Email or call Jim to tattletale on yourself or someone else. It’s for a good cause!
--Jan Gee paid $50 as an apology for being hacked. Probably a misplaced apology but love the money!
--$100 from Greg Horn for the PB Challenge, making his total $200 to that.
--$50 from Phil Eng in honor of another wildly successful Reeder Roadster Romp. Phil is an amazing organizer, with thanks to Rick Selden, Wagonmaster.
--$100 PB Challenge from Steve Mazoff, and a reminder to deliver food, etc. to the Little Food Pantries, like the one at LASA on Gravelly Lake Drive.
--Rose Stevens offered up $100 for a birthday and much traveling.
--John Lowney told a story about getting struck behind a garbage truck on the Astoria Bridge, causing his Thunderbird to stink all the way home of dead fish! He gave $50 to the cause and $50 to the peanut butter, I think!
--Wynn Hoffman turned 39 again. $100 fine was volunteered.
--Leanna Christian went double kayaking with her hubby to celebrate 18 years of wedded bliss. She rounded it up to $20.
--Chuck Hellar gave $54 for his 54th. Must have been his anniversary, because he could not be only 54 years old. Sorry Chuck!
--Donna Phillips gave $50 for the PB Challenge in honor of the “magical” boat tour that they “won” at the auction.
Above: Cars and Rotarians Romping
Program:
Jan Gee introduced former state representative (2017-19) Paul Graves, who is one of the five members selected for the Washington State Redistricting Commission. This commission is formed every ten years after the census. There are no currently elected officials allowed on it, and all are prohibited from running for office for at least two years. Two are appointed by the Republican caucus, two from the Democratic caucus, and the fifth is selected by those four. Three votes are needed to pass the final plan. There were some significant population changes: Federal Way was up 10%, but Gig Harbor was up 58%. Washington State’s population was up 13% since 2010. Incorporated areas were up 17%, unincorporated areas were up 7%, with suburbs growing the fastest of all. The commission is required to make the districts roughly proportional, and: 1. Contiguous; 2. Compact; 3. Proportional; 4. Preserve interests by community; 5. Show no favor to a specific party or candidate. Their plan goes for approval in Olympia on 11/15/21, with very limited oversight or control at that point by the elected officials. For an update, you can go to www.redistricting.wa.gov. They have great software to help the process, and Paul expressed his gratitude that Washington has such a fair and non-partisan system. Great program!
And, for seemingly the millionth week in a row, there was no drawing. But wait for it: August 27 will be our first of many in-person meetings.
A guy goes to Dr. Rooks and says, "Listen Doc, my wife is slowly becoming deaf. What should I do? How can I cure her?"
Dr. Rooks answers: "Well, take her to me and I'll see what I can do."
But the guy says: "No, I don't want to."
Dr. Rooks is surprised and says: "Why? How can I make a diagnosis without seeing her?"
The guy explains: "I don't want her to feel bad. I would like to cure her without her acknowledging it."
So Jim says: "Okay, let's try this: You go home, say to her a phrase just when you enter. If she doesn't answer, step a few yards closer and repeat the same phrase with the same tone of voice. If she still doesn't answer, repeat the process until she hears it. When she hears, calculate the distance and you come to me and tell it to me so we can do something."
The guy goes home, he opens the door and says, "Honey, what's for dinner tonight?". No answer. He steps a couple of yards closer and repeats: "Honey, what's for dinner tonight?". Again no answer. He steps another couple of yards forward and repeats, "Honey, what's for dinner tonight?". Still no answer.
He steps yet another couple of yards closer. He's now very close to the door of the kitchen when there's the wife, only 3 feet away, and he repeats: "Honey, what's for dinner tonight?".
"CARNE ASADA! I SAID IT 4 TIMES ALREADY! GO SEE DR. ROOKS!!!"
Uff da.
Above: Life is a Beach. Uff da.
Andrew Kruse gave a Rotary invocation, and Bob Hammar led all his sweethearts in the Pledge, specifically the one originated by President Eisenhower in 1954 (added “under God”). Puffins in attendance included Carl Bronkema, Rachel Mazoff and Wendy McGowan. Mary Jo Strom-Copland was the Member Spotlight and suggested that we not hamper our travel agent with too many particulars: let them do their job and get you a good trip.
Above: Mary Jo
I went to my Ear Nose and Throat doctor for sinus infections, migraines, and ringing in my ears. After a battery of tests he took me aside for my diagnosis: "I am afraid your problems are all in your head."
Sunshine Report:
President Jim passed along the sad news that Gary Fulton’s brother, Richard, recently passed away. Richard was a Lakewood Rotarian for a short while in the 1980s. Gary’s 102-year old mother is ill, also. Steve Mazoff noted that Bud Montgomery was t-boned by someone running a red light on Bridgeport. He’s OK, but the car is battered (but fixable).
My doctor told me I was going deaf. The news was hard for me to hear.
Announcements:
(Pardon the poor reporting below. My computer told me that I was unstable and punished me by making things freeze up periodically.)
--Need more bodies for the Set-up Committee. Technical and otherwise, both. See Rob Erb
Above: Mary Marlin and Barb Spriggs on the Roadster Romp
--Peanut Butter Challenge. Go to www.lakewoodrotary.com, Make A Payment, and follow the bouncing ball to contribute. We have a challenge from the Kenai Club in Alaska. If we win, it’s a fishing trip for two up there. We haven’t contemplated a loss, apparently. (It occurs to me that some of you younger members might be unaware of the “follow the bouncing ball” reference. We are always interested in educating here at the Lakewood Key: The bouncing ball is a device used in motion picture films and video recordings to visually indicate the rhythm of a song, helping audiences to sing along with live or prerecorded music. Wikipedia) Treasurer Lowney noted we have received $450 already. PDG Greg Horn noted that the peanut butter this purchases stays here; it does not go to Alaska. Most $$ collected per capita wins the trip.
--Jim updated us on a Johns Hopkins report on COVID. The U.S. has 35.4 million confirmed cases total and more than 600,000 deaths attributed to COVID. Follow recommended guidelines, with the main point: don’t die.
--For all things Lakewood Rotary, go to www.lakewoodrotary.com, including to access DACdb.
I had an ear infection, so I went to the doctor, who took a look and quickly diagnosed it and wrote a prescription and handed it to me. Dr. Rooks: “It's just an ear infection, so 4 drops of this daily should clear it right up.” Me: “Cortisporin? So, I put the drops in my mouth?” Dr. Rooks: “No, no, no, you put it in your ear!” Me: “Oh, I read the name and Cortisporin sounds like something you'd take orally.” Dr. Rooks: “Nope, in the ear.” Me: “It's a good thing that you didn't prescribe me analgesics.”
Fines: Jim says please-please-please R.O.A.R. Which stands for Rat On A Rotarian. Email or call Jim to tattletale on yourself or someone else. It’s for a good cause!
--Jan Gee paid $50 as an apology for being hacked. Probably a misplaced apology but love the money!
--$100 from Greg Horn for the PB Challenge, making his total $200 to that.
--$50 from Phil Eng in honor of another wildly successful Reeder Roadster Romp. Phil is an amazing organizer, with thanks to Rick Selden, Wagonmaster.
--$100 PB Challenge from Steve Mazoff, and a reminder to deliver food, etc. to the Little Food Pantries, like the one at LASA on Gravelly Lake Drive.
--Rose Stevens offered up $100 for a birthday and much traveling.
--John Lowney told a story about getting struck behind a garbage truck on the Astoria Bridge, causing his Thunderbird to stink all the way home of dead fish! He gave $50 to the cause and $50 to the peanut butter, I think!
--Wynn Hoffman turned 39 again. $100 fine was volunteered.
--Leanna Christian went double kayaking with her hubby to celebrate 18 years of wedded bliss. She rounded it up to $20.
--Chuck Hellar gave $54 for his 54th. Must have been his anniversary, because he could not be only 54 years old. Sorry Chuck!
--Donna Phillips gave $50 for the PB Challenge in honor of the “magical” boat tour that they “won” at the auction.
Above: Cars and Rotarians Romping
Program:
Jan Gee introduced former state representative (2017-19) Paul Graves, who is one of the five members selected for the Washington State Redistricting Commission. This commission is formed every ten years after the census. There are no currently elected officials allowed on it, and all are prohibited from running for office for at least two years. Two are appointed by the Republican caucus, two from the Democratic caucus, and the fifth is selected by those four. Three votes are needed to pass the final plan. There were some significant population changes: Federal Way was up 10%, but Gig Harbor was up 58%. Washington State’s population was up 13% since 2010. Incorporated areas were up 17%, unincorporated areas were up 7%, with suburbs growing the fastest of all. The commission is required to make the districts roughly proportional, and: 1. Contiguous; 2. Compact; 3. Proportional; 4. Preserve interests by community; 5. Show no favor to a specific party or candidate. Their plan goes for approval in Olympia on 11/15/21, with very limited oversight or control at that point by the elected officials. For an update, you can go to www.redistricting.wa.gov. They have great software to help the process, and Paul expressed his gratitude that Washington has such a fair and non-partisan system. Great program!
And, for seemingly the millionth week in a row, there was no drawing. But wait for it: August 27 will be our first of many in-person meetings.
A guy goes to Dr. Rooks and says, "Listen Doc, my wife is slowly becoming deaf. What should I do? How can I cure her?"
Dr. Rooks answers: "Well, take her to me and I'll see what I can do."
But the guy says: "No, I don't want to."
Dr. Rooks is surprised and says: "Why? How can I make a diagnosis without seeing her?"
The guy explains: "I don't want her to feel bad. I would like to cure her without her acknowledging it."
So Jim says: "Okay, let's try this: You go home, say to her a phrase just when you enter. If she doesn't answer, step a few yards closer and repeat the same phrase with the same tone of voice. If she still doesn't answer, repeat the process until she hears it. When she hears, calculate the distance and you come to me and tell it to me so we can do something."
The guy goes home, he opens the door and says, "Honey, what's for dinner tonight?". No answer. He steps a couple of yards closer and repeats: "Honey, what's for dinner tonight?". Again no answer. He steps another couple of yards forward and repeats, "Honey, what's for dinner tonight?". Still no answer.
He steps yet another couple of yards closer. He's now very close to the door of the kitchen when there's the wife, only 3 feet away, and he repeats: "Honey, what's for dinner tonight?".
"CARNE ASADA! I SAID IT 4 TIMES ALREADY! GO SEE DR. ROOKS!!!"
Uff da.
Above: Life is a Beach. Uff da.
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This Rotary Weekend
Monday, August 2, 2021 By: Gayle Selden
This Rotary Weekend by Gayle SeldenTHE LAKEWOOD KEY FOR JULY 30, 2021
The July 30th meeting of Rotary Club of Lakewood was called to order by President Jim Rooks. Scott Buser led us in the gift of today and the opportunity to make a difference. Ron Irwin led us in the Flag Salute.
Dr. Rooks then thanked Lenna Christian for set up, John Lowney for fine recording and Gayle Selden for meeting recording.
Our President then introduced very special guests Scott and Karen Seitz from the Kenai Rotary (that is Alaska). Scott is a Past President of Tacoma Narrows Rotary (which has been renamed University Place/Fircrest) and came today to challenge our membership to a Peanut Butter drive.
They said: “Last year 11 Rotary clubs collected cash and peanut butter for local food banks and had a great time doing it. (They collected over 6,125 pounds of Peanut Butter AND over $7,550 dollars in cash donations.) They are doing it again and you are invited to join us in our Peanut Butter Challenge.”
Rules are simple: Most pounds of peanut butter per Rotarian. Duration of Challenge: August 1st to August 31st.
Kenai Rotary offered us an additional side bet. They offered us fishing on the Kenai River and a couple nights lodging but we have to come up with an alternative prize to make the side bet.
Last year’s overall winner was University Place – Fircrest Rotary in Tacoma, Washington area with more than 1,330 pounds of PB or more than $2,750 dollars. That equates to 78 pounds per person.
Last year’s winner for the State of Alaska was Kenai Rotary Club with about 64 pounds per person.
Greg Horn started us off with $100 toward the peanut butter challenge.
Jim Rooks also let us know about the Cross Egypt Challenge — Rotary Matters. I had to take a phone call at this time as you all heard as I wasn’t muted but it looks fascinating. (I hope Gayle was fined for that! Ed.)
For Sunshine we send condolences to Stephanie Wilcox who lost her mother.
Mary Horn also reported, despite his wishes, there is a gravesite service for Ward Fletcher planned. It will be held in Mossyrock and we will have a small gathering after to celebrate his life. Date will be forthcoming.
Former member Jim Walter’s son Craig was in a serious car accident in Texas and could use our thoughts and prayers.
September 9th will be Rotary Night at the Rodeo. The event welcomes the start of the four-day Rodeo at thePuyallup Fair Washington State Fair. You’ll watch some rodeo and then get to enjoy the sounds of the Oak Ridge Boys and dance in the dirt. $36 Tickets get you into the fair and into the special Rotary Section at the Rodeo and a scone. To buy tickets click this link: https://tickets.thefair.com/PremiumSectionSelect.asp?performanceid=1990&qualifierID=62&qualifiertype=paymenttype
Above: It will not get you an Egg like this at Winlock, Washington
President Rooks invited us to join in Fines and Generous giving. Scott Buser started it off with a trip to Minnesota and a Massage he just had ($100). Bob Hammar shared something I missed. Rick Selden paid a Greenleaf (that’s $20) because he got to see Ron Irwin on the screen and $100 to the Peanut Butter Challenge. Jim Rooks also donated $20 to see Ron. It should be noted that Ron didn’t pay a fine back for being seen. David Swindale paid $20 for a trip to Deception Pass. New member Carl Bronkema was taught the acronym ROAR, when Anne Enquist practiced Rat-On-A-Rotarian, about Carl’s recent Farmers Insurance Awards. Barlow Buescher’s wife Karen Johnston was retired and he paid $50 for that and $50 for Peanut Butter. Rob Erb paid $20 to thank the Zoom and Hybrid committee. Wendy McGowen made a donation. Phil Eng paid $20 for an 8-day camping trip and donated $100 to Peanut Butter. Gayle Selden paid $20 for interrupting the meeting by not muting herself after talking, equating it to having a phone ring during an in-person meeting. Mark Edgecomb donated $100 to the Peanut Butter challenge.
Above: A picture from the Saturday night event at Steilacoom Lake
THE PROGRAM
Our Program was our very own Jim Rooks who invited some committees to share about what is coming up in the year and where we have been as well as his personal goals and hopes for our club.
Steve Enquist gave an update on the Foundation. The Rotary International Foundation has given globally over 4 billion dollars. $4 billion leveraged in real projects. Our club used matching grants from the annual fund, we leveraged $7,000 with grants from District and international into $21,000 and the Indian clubs further leveraged that into $129,000 to provide the Dialysis center we learned about from Tom George and Rose Stevens. For a second project the World Community Service committee leveraged $4,500 into $!3,500 which was further leveraged by another Indian club for the Mammography machine.
Last Rotary year (July1 to June 30th) our Rotary Club gave $18,753 to the Annual Fund, $15,737 to Polio Plus, $12,900 to the endowment and $11,818 to global grants. In total, our Lakewood Rotary giving over time is $1,275,988.
Our club has 96 Paul Harris Fellows, 19 Benefactors, 8 Bequest Society Members, 13 Major Donors, 93 who give at least $100 per year, and 81 Sustaining members of the Foundation. You can donate three ways: at the desk at in-person meetings, online at Lakewoodrotary.com and Direct Deposit to RI.
President Rooks then praised the fundraising committee for a successful online auction. Nicole Hancock let us know that this year we changed and called ourselves the fundraising committee instead of the Sportsman’s dinner committee. The switch to online was profitable due to less expenses. The committee is working to decide whether next near will stay online or go back to a live auction. The committee is also looking to add some members to help in our fundraising efforts. Contact Nicole Hancock to join!
President Rooks also let us know that he has tapped PE Jason Whalen to head a Strategic Planning Committee for our club. If you should like to help shape our future, please join Jason in this committee. He is also hoping that we can start a Rotaract Club at Pierce College or Clover Park Technical College.
Our Little Free Pantry project has been going strong. Special thanks were given to the library builders and installers John Lowney and Mark Blanchard. The seventh little free pantry was just installed at LASA (Living Access Support Alliance). Here are the addresses of all seven pantries:
In thoughts of Membership, Dr. Rooks would love to see us increasing our membership especially with women and people of color. Let’s try and get our club to match the community we serve. The Fellowship committee has been challenged to come up with some more family friendly events.
Jim is looking forward to Hybrid Meetings starting August 27th. Having a hybrid meeting allows members to participate whether they are immune-compromised, not vaccinated or not ready to join larger groups. Our Assistant District Governor, Tony Camoroda, shared that it is suggested that clubs comply with the rules of the meeting facilities and that all conveners are encouraged to consider others’ health concerns. The Tacoma Country and Golf Club is following CDC guideline and L&I regulations. For us that means that masks are optional for all but those without a vaccination. An unvaccinated person must wear a mask. There is no exception there and the regulations could continue to be changed.
Reminding us of our Rotary motto of Service above Self. . .remember to put others before yourself. Use the four-way test and protect others at all Rotary events—outside and inside. Dr. Rooks believes in the science and that the vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and others.
Dr. Rooks then invited the second half of the Covid Committee to talk about the Delta Variant. Dr. Peter Marsh let us know that The Delta Variant of Covid is much more contagious than the original virus. It presents differently in the vaccinated -with a sore throat, cough and fever being the most prevalent symptoms. There is still a lot being learned but it does look as though vaccinated persons can pass this variant on. Those who are vaccinated are usually saved from hospitalizations and long-term damage. Once more, data is available and recommendations may change. The CDC is a great source of information and recommendations. Dr. Rooks also highlighted the Infectious Disease Society of America as a great source of information as well.
Looks like it’s going to be a wonderful Rotary year.
Thanks Dr. Rooks!
Above: Dr. Rooks
They said: “Last year 11 Rotary clubs collected cash and peanut butter for local food banks and had a great time doing it. (They collected over 6,125 pounds of Peanut Butter AND over $7,550 dollars in cash donations.) They are doing it again and you are invited to join us in our Peanut Butter Challenge.”
Rules are simple: Most pounds of peanut butter per Rotarian. Duration of Challenge: August 1st to August 31st.
Kenai Rotary offered us an additional side bet. They offered us fishing on the Kenai River and a couple nights lodging but we have to come up with an alternative prize to make the side bet.
Last year’s overall winner was University Place – Fircrest Rotary in Tacoma, Washington area with more than 1,330 pounds of PB or more than $2,750 dollars. That equates to 78 pounds per person.
Last year’s winner for the State of Alaska was Kenai Rotary Club with about 64 pounds per person.
Greg Horn started us off with $100 toward the peanut butter challenge.
Jim Rooks also let us know about the Cross Egypt Challenge — Rotary Matters. I had to take a phone call at this time as you all heard as I wasn’t muted but it looks fascinating. (I hope Gayle was fined for that! Ed.)
For Sunshine we send condolences to Stephanie Wilcox who lost her mother.
Mary Horn also reported, despite his wishes, there is a gravesite service for Ward Fletcher planned. It will be held in Mossyrock and we will have a small gathering after to celebrate his life. Date will be forthcoming.
Former member Jim Walter’s son Craig was in a serious car accident in Texas and could use our thoughts and prayers.
September 9th will be Rotary Night at the Rodeo. The event welcomes the start of the four-day Rodeo at the
Above: It will not get you an Egg like this at Winlock, Washington
President Rooks invited us to join in Fines and Generous giving. Scott Buser started it off with a trip to Minnesota and a Massage he just had ($100). Bob Hammar shared something I missed. Rick Selden paid a Greenleaf (that’s $20) because he got to see Ron Irwin on the screen and $100 to the Peanut Butter Challenge. Jim Rooks also donated $20 to see Ron. It should be noted that Ron didn’t pay a fine back for being seen. David Swindale paid $20 for a trip to Deception Pass. New member Carl Bronkema was taught the acronym ROAR, when Anne Enquist practiced Rat-On-A-Rotarian, about Carl’s recent Farmers Insurance Awards. Barlow Buescher’s wife Karen Johnston was retired and he paid $50 for that and $50 for Peanut Butter. Rob Erb paid $20 to thank the Zoom and Hybrid committee. Wendy McGowen made a donation. Phil Eng paid $20 for an 8-day camping trip and donated $100 to Peanut Butter. Gayle Selden paid $20 for interrupting the meeting by not muting herself after talking, equating it to having a phone ring during an in-person meeting. Mark Edgecomb donated $100 to the Peanut Butter challenge.
Above: A picture from the Saturday night event at Steilacoom Lake
THE PROGRAM
Our Program was our very own Jim Rooks who invited some committees to share about what is coming up in the year and where we have been as well as his personal goals and hopes for our club.
Steve Enquist gave an update on the Foundation. The Rotary International Foundation has given globally over 4 billion dollars. $4 billion leveraged in real projects. Our club used matching grants from the annual fund, we leveraged $7,000 with grants from District and international into $21,000 and the Indian clubs further leveraged that into $129,000 to provide the Dialysis center we learned about from Tom George and Rose Stevens. For a second project the World Community Service committee leveraged $4,500 into $!3,500 which was further leveraged by another Indian club for the Mammography machine.
Last Rotary year (July1 to June 30th) our Rotary Club gave $18,753 to the Annual Fund, $15,737 to Polio Plus, $12,900 to the endowment and $11,818 to global grants. In total, our Lakewood Rotary giving over time is $1,275,988.
Our club has 96 Paul Harris Fellows, 19 Benefactors, 8 Bequest Society Members, 13 Major Donors, 93 who give at least $100 per year, and 81 Sustaining members of the Foundation. You can donate three ways: at the desk at in-person meetings, online at Lakewoodrotary.com and Direct Deposit to RI.
President Rooks then praised the fundraising committee for a successful online auction. Nicole Hancock let us know that this year we changed and called ourselves the fundraising committee instead of the Sportsman’s dinner committee. The switch to online was profitable due to less expenses. The committee is working to decide whether next near will stay online or go back to a live auction. The committee is also looking to add some members to help in our fundraising efforts. Contact Nicole Hancock to join!
President Rooks also let us know that he has tapped PE Jason Whalen to head a Strategic Planning Committee for our club. If you should like to help shape our future, please join Jason in this committee. He is also hoping that we can start a Rotaract Club at Pierce College or Clover Park Technical College.
Our Little Free Pantry project has been going strong. Special thanks were given to the library builders and installers John Lowney and Mark Blanchard. The seventh little free pantry was just installed at LASA (Living Access Support Alliance). Here are the addresses of all seven pantries:
- Lakewood Presbyterian Church 8601 104th St SW, Lakewood
- Youth for Christ Family Center 14511 W Thorne Ln SW, Lakewood
- Springbrook Connections? 12601 Addison St SW, Lakewood
- Crossroads Treatment Center 4928 109th St SW ?
- Tillicum #2 8409 Orchard St SW,
- Springbrook Connections #2 5506 Boston Avenue SW
- LASA 8956 Gravelly Lake Drive SW
In thoughts of Membership, Dr. Rooks would love to see us increasing our membership especially with women and people of color. Let’s try and get our club to match the community we serve. The Fellowship committee has been challenged to come up with some more family friendly events.
Jim is looking forward to Hybrid Meetings starting August 27th. Having a hybrid meeting allows members to participate whether they are immune-compromised, not vaccinated or not ready to join larger groups. Our Assistant District Governor, Tony Camoroda, shared that it is suggested that clubs comply with the rules of the meeting facilities and that all conveners are encouraged to consider others’ health concerns. The Tacoma Country and Golf Club is following CDC guideline and L&I regulations. For us that means that masks are optional for all but those without a vaccination. An unvaccinated person must wear a mask. There is no exception there and the regulations could continue to be changed.
Reminding us of our Rotary motto of Service above Self. . .remember to put others before yourself. Use the four-way test and protect others at all Rotary events—outside and inside. Dr. Rooks believes in the science and that the vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and others.
Dr. Rooks then invited the second half of the Covid Committee to talk about the Delta Variant. Dr. Peter Marsh let us know that The Delta Variant of Covid is much more contagious than the original virus. It presents differently in the vaccinated -with a sore throat, cough and fever being the most prevalent symptoms. There is still a lot being learned but it does look as though vaccinated persons can pass this variant on. Those who are vaccinated are usually saved from hospitalizations and long-term damage. Once more, data is available and recommendations may change. The CDC is a great source of information and recommendations. Dr. Rooks also highlighted the Infectious Disease Society of America as a great source of information as well.
Looks like it’s going to be a wonderful Rotary year.
Thanks Dr. Rooks!
Above: Dr. Rooks
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Saving Lives
Saturday, July 24, 2021 By: Eric T Quinn
Saving Lives with West PierceTHE LAKEWOOD KEY for July 23, 2021
Jim promptly rang the meeting to order. Chris Kimball performed the invocation. Carl Bronkema led the salute to our Flag. Leanna Christian set up the meeting and co-hosted the Zoom with Jim. Eric Quinn wrote the bulletin and we all remained the designated photographers. Greg Rediske recorded the fines.
Above: The day after the meeting, Five Rotarians Ran the Yard at Zawilski’s
Has anyone heard any good “non jokes” lately? I guess not. Here’s one:
What does one French Guy say to another French Guy? “My name is also Guy.” (We still haven/t heard any good ones. The Ed.)
Greg Rediske introduced no visiting Rotarians. Greg also introduced no guests. But Jim Rooks introduced a guest named Anthony Veliz, who was with us last week too and is checking out Lakewood Rotary.
Jim recognized the Puffins: Mike Brown, Carole Wier, Jessica James, Dave Hall, Carl Bronkema, Rachel Mazoff, Steve Saalfeld, Jamie Simons; James Osundwa, and Wendy McGowan, some of whom were in attendance and some who were not.
Jim is reinstituting the Member Spotlight program that Chris Kimball did a few years back. Our Member Spotlight was on Bob Bruback today. Bob is the new Chairperson of the Community Concerns Committee, and is an outstanding Rotarian. Bob graduated from Bellarmine High School and the University of Puget Sound. After graduation, Bob spent 25 years at what became Key Bank. He then moved on to Columbia Bank for five years. Then he was recruited by Heritage Bank and retired from there in 2013. He enjoys the job of retirement better than any job that he ever had. Bob was sponsored by Jim Rooks. Bob recently became a member of the Lakewood Rotary Board. Bob and his wife Karen have been married for 23 years. Bob paid $50 to the Club. Thank you, Bob, for being an outstanding Rotarian.
Another non-joke: You know what's really odd? Numbers that aren't divisible by two. (Gawd, these non-jokes are non-funny! The Ed.)
John Forkenbrock had no Sunshine to report. Greg Rediske informed the Club that Donn Irwin is making headway toward full recovery after his 11 days in the hospital. He is doing well.
Jan Gee had an announcement about hybrid meetings. Lakewood Rotary is going to be getting back together again, in person, toward the end of August. Jan is the Board Member responsible for Administration and therefore oversees how our meetings take place. Rob Erb stated that as Chair of the Setup committee, he is in need of volunteers to help run the hybrid meetings that we are going to be doing soon. The committee is meeting on August 3 and August 11. To be clear, a hybrid meeting is a meeting where some attend in person and some attend virtually. Jim thanked Jan and Rob.
Above: We get back here August 27th. Be there!
And another: Why do we dress baby boys in blue and baby girls in pink? Because they can't dress themselves.
Chuck Hellar reminded us that the Courage Classic is taking place on August 28 and 29. We need more volunteers to staff our rest stop on Saturday and help other Rotary clubs on Sunday. Please inform Chuck if you are able to help out. Chuck also informed us that Sam Hunter and his wife are recovering from a recent bout of Covid.
Jim and Jason Whalen went to a general assembly of the Pierce County Rotary Club Presidents, where various members were discussing how to increase membership. Jim informed us about a lead agent of the consortium of clubs, who discussed the “97 Ways to Increase Membership.” Jim has a “blurb” on the “97 Ways” that he can send to you.
Heard any non-jokes lately? Here is one for you: Why did the dinosaur eat the baby? He didn't. Humans did not appear until after the extinction of dinosaurs.
As for fines, Kendra Riconosciuto and her family went on a trip to Orlando and Disney World. The temperature there was over 90 degrees. Because of that, and after adding 90% humidity, Kendra gave $100. Leanna Christian received a scholarship from the Puget Sound Business Journal’s Women of Influence-Lytle Enterprises Scholarship Fund. Here is a link to some information on the fund: https://seattlefoundation.smapply.org/prog/psbjs_women_of_influence_-_lytle_enterprises_scholarship/. Leanna gave $20.00 for her achievement. Jim gave $20 to match Leanna. Rob Erb went on a bike ride recently and he gave $20. Mark Edgecomb and his wife had a staycation in Ruston and told a story about the water they sprayed out of the hotel jacuzzi. Mark gave $20 for that. Barb Spriggs donated $100 for a return to her pre-retirement hospital, about the Arctic Circle in Kotzebue, Alaska.. Barlow Buescher gave $16 for his 16th Anniversary of his marriage to Karen. Jan Gee gave $25 for a keepsake flag that a legislator gave her upon her retirement. Chuck Hellar’s friend accidentally flew to North Bend, Oregon instead of Bend Oregon. So, Chuck paid $25 for his friend’s screw up. Dave Hall gave $50. Generous Giving indeed!
One last non-joke: What did one lawyer say to the other lawyer? "We're both lawyers!" (Now that is really hilarious! Not. Everyone knows lawyers do not talk to one another—they shout. The Ed.)
Our Program was from our very own resident Fire Chief, Jim Sharp. Jim is the Fire Chief of West Pierce Fire and Rescue (WPFR). The Mission of WPFR is to “Save Lives, Improve Health and Safety, and Protect Property.” The motto of WPFR is “Respond Efficiently, Execute Flawlessly, Be Nice.” Jim provided us an update on WPFR. He obviously spoke about the impacts of Covid. Jim also discussed how wildfires have become a major problem in Western Washington, especially last year (2020). There has also been a lot of civil unrest that WPFR has had to coordinate with law enforcement on. Calls slowed down a little bit last year (about 100-200 fewer calls than 2019 at the same time). This is likely because people were scared to go to the hospital, during the early months of the pandemic.
WPFR received $1.35 Million in Grant money in 2020. This money has been devoted to improving automobile extrication equipment and training, smoke alarm provision, purchasing a new technical rescue vehicle, and improving hazardous-material spill mitigation. WPFR graduated its largest recruit academy in 2020, its largest graduation of recruits in WPFR’s history, despite the uncertainty of the time. WPFR also employed its first all-female firefighting crew. That is a landmark.
One thing that WPFR struggled with in 2020 was community engagement, due to all of the closures resulting from the pandemic. But WPFR adapted. For example, WPFR started a reading program where WPFR firefighters were reading stories virtually to children in the community. They were also delivering pumpkins!
Underlying all of this is the fundamental shift in how emergency medical services (EMS) are being provided, particularly by virtue of low-acuity calls that do not necessarily require EMS. It is important to note that the EMS system was designed to take care of critical patients. Jim discussed changes in the response model of WPFR that have been made in response to the increase in non-emergent or less-emergent calls. To respond to these non-emergent/less emergent calls, a “squad unit” was formed in 2020 as a pilot. The squad unit is staffed with two people in a pickup truck that responds to the low-acuity calls.
Another way that the response model has changed is using a “hybrid program” where a medic unit includes one paramedic and one EMT—rather than having two paramedics on a unit. This allowed WPFR to add a new medic unit. Jim discussed how this change has improved patient outcomes. WPFR now has medic units in five out of six stations.
WPFR also discussed its Connected CARE program (we will call it the CARES program). The term “CARES” stands for “Community Assistance, Referral and Education Services.” CARES is designed to reduce burdens on the EMS system by providing non-emergency services (within supervision of the applicable medical program director) to those suffering from crises that do not necessarily rise to the level of an emergency—such as issues involving mental health, substance abuse or poverty, or issues specific to the elderly. WPFR’s plan was to get its CARES program implemented in 2020. Covid got in the way of that and therefore WPFR is hoping to implement a CARES program in 2021. Jim has great hopes for the program. He opened up his presentation for questions.
Jim Bisceglia asked a question pertaining to how 911 dispatchers (and law enforcement) would be involved in the context of these low-acuity calls. Chief Sharp stated that this is an ongoing conversation nationwide. Chief Sharp noted that it is very difficult for dispatchers to isolate calls by type, and therefore EMS may be dispatched to certain calls which could have been properly addressed by law enforcement.
Dave Coleman—who initially was muted but who made it out of the darkness—thanked WPFR for responding to a few emergencies involving his son, who was suffering from sepsis. WPFR transported his son to St. Clare, and he is doing well. Dave gave $20 for that. Jim wished Dave’s son well.
Jim Rooks thanked Chief Sharp for the amazing presentation. Jim adjourned the meeting at 1:29 PM.
Above: West Pierce F& R: Save Lives, Improve Health & Safety, and Protect Property
The non-jokes today were brought to you by https://bestlifeonline.com/anti-jokes/
Oh yes, remember that if you shop online, do so at Amazon Smile so a portion of your purchase can be allocated to Lakewood Rotary. Also, if you read this bulletin, tell Greg Rediske so you can get a make-up for a missed meeting.
What does one French Guy say to another French Guy? “My name is also Guy.” (We still haven/t heard any good ones. The Ed.)
Greg Rediske introduced no visiting Rotarians. Greg also introduced no guests. But Jim Rooks introduced a guest named Anthony Veliz, who was with us last week too and is checking out Lakewood Rotary.
Jim recognized the Puffins: Mike Brown, Carole Wier, Jessica James, Dave Hall, Carl Bronkema, Rachel Mazoff, Steve Saalfeld, Jamie Simons; James Osundwa, and Wendy McGowan, some of whom were in attendance and some who were not.
Jim is reinstituting the Member Spotlight program that Chris Kimball did a few years back. Our Member Spotlight was on Bob Bruback today. Bob is the new Chairperson of the Community Concerns Committee, and is an outstanding Rotarian. Bob graduated from Bellarmine High School and the University of Puget Sound. After graduation, Bob spent 25 years at what became Key Bank. He then moved on to Columbia Bank for five years. Then he was recruited by Heritage Bank and retired from there in 2013. He enjoys the job of retirement better than any job that he ever had. Bob was sponsored by Jim Rooks. Bob recently became a member of the Lakewood Rotary Board. Bob and his wife Karen have been married for 23 years. Bob paid $50 to the Club. Thank you, Bob, for being an outstanding Rotarian.
Another non-joke: You know what's really odd? Numbers that aren't divisible by two. (Gawd, these non-jokes are non-funny! The Ed.)
John Forkenbrock had no Sunshine to report. Greg Rediske informed the Club that Donn Irwin is making headway toward full recovery after his 11 days in the hospital. He is doing well.
Jan Gee had an announcement about hybrid meetings. Lakewood Rotary is going to be getting back together again, in person, toward the end of August. Jan is the Board Member responsible for Administration and therefore oversees how our meetings take place. Rob Erb stated that as Chair of the Setup committee, he is in need of volunteers to help run the hybrid meetings that we are going to be doing soon. The committee is meeting on August 3 and August 11. To be clear, a hybrid meeting is a meeting where some attend in person and some attend virtually. Jim thanked Jan and Rob.
Above: We get back here August 27th. Be there!
And another: Why do we dress baby boys in blue and baby girls in pink? Because they can't dress themselves.
Chuck Hellar reminded us that the Courage Classic is taking place on August 28 and 29. We need more volunteers to staff our rest stop on Saturday and help other Rotary clubs on Sunday. Please inform Chuck if you are able to help out. Chuck also informed us that Sam Hunter and his wife are recovering from a recent bout of Covid.
Jim and Jason Whalen went to a general assembly of the Pierce County Rotary Club Presidents, where various members were discussing how to increase membership. Jim informed us about a lead agent of the consortium of clubs, who discussed the “97 Ways to Increase Membership.” Jim has a “blurb” on the “97 Ways” that he can send to you.
Heard any non-jokes lately? Here is one for you: Why did the dinosaur eat the baby? He didn't. Humans did not appear until after the extinction of dinosaurs.
As for fines, Kendra Riconosciuto and her family went on a trip to Orlando and Disney World. The temperature there was over 90 degrees. Because of that, and after adding 90% humidity, Kendra gave $100. Leanna Christian received a scholarship from the Puget Sound Business Journal’s Women of Influence-Lytle Enterprises Scholarship Fund. Here is a link to some information on the fund: https://seattlefoundation.smapply.org/prog/psbjs_women_of_influence_-_lytle_enterprises_scholarship/. Leanna gave $20.00 for her achievement. Jim gave $20 to match Leanna. Rob Erb went on a bike ride recently and he gave $20. Mark Edgecomb and his wife had a staycation in Ruston and told a story about the water they sprayed out of the hotel jacuzzi. Mark gave $20 for that. Barb Spriggs donated $100 for a return to her pre-retirement hospital, about the Arctic Circle in Kotzebue, Alaska.. Barlow Buescher gave $16 for his 16th Anniversary of his marriage to Karen. Jan Gee gave $25 for a keepsake flag that a legislator gave her upon her retirement. Chuck Hellar’s friend accidentally flew to North Bend, Oregon instead of Bend Oregon. So, Chuck paid $25 for his friend’s screw up. Dave Hall gave $50. Generous Giving indeed!
One last non-joke: What did one lawyer say to the other lawyer? "We're both lawyers!" (Now that is really hilarious! Not. Everyone knows lawyers do not talk to one another—they shout. The Ed.)
Our Program was from our very own resident Fire Chief, Jim Sharp. Jim is the Fire Chief of West Pierce Fire and Rescue (WPFR). The Mission of WPFR is to “Save Lives, Improve Health and Safety, and Protect Property.” The motto of WPFR is “Respond Efficiently, Execute Flawlessly, Be Nice.” Jim provided us an update on WPFR. He obviously spoke about the impacts of Covid. Jim also discussed how wildfires have become a major problem in Western Washington, especially last year (2020). There has also been a lot of civil unrest that WPFR has had to coordinate with law enforcement on. Calls slowed down a little bit last year (about 100-200 fewer calls than 2019 at the same time). This is likely because people were scared to go to the hospital, during the early months of the pandemic.
WPFR received $1.35 Million in Grant money in 2020. This money has been devoted to improving automobile extrication equipment and training, smoke alarm provision, purchasing a new technical rescue vehicle, and improving hazardous-material spill mitigation. WPFR graduated its largest recruit academy in 2020, its largest graduation of recruits in WPFR’s history, despite the uncertainty of the time. WPFR also employed its first all-female firefighting crew. That is a landmark.
One thing that WPFR struggled with in 2020 was community engagement, due to all of the closures resulting from the pandemic. But WPFR adapted. For example, WPFR started a reading program where WPFR firefighters were reading stories virtually to children in the community. They were also delivering pumpkins!
Underlying all of this is the fundamental shift in how emergency medical services (EMS) are being provided, particularly by virtue of low-acuity calls that do not necessarily require EMS. It is important to note that the EMS system was designed to take care of critical patients. Jim discussed changes in the response model of WPFR that have been made in response to the increase in non-emergent or less-emergent calls. To respond to these non-emergent/less emergent calls, a “squad unit” was formed in 2020 as a pilot. The squad unit is staffed with two people in a pickup truck that responds to the low-acuity calls.
Another way that the response model has changed is using a “hybrid program” where a medic unit includes one paramedic and one EMT—rather than having two paramedics on a unit. This allowed WPFR to add a new medic unit. Jim discussed how this change has improved patient outcomes. WPFR now has medic units in five out of six stations.
WPFR also discussed its Connected CARE program (we will call it the CARES program). The term “CARES” stands for “Community Assistance, Referral and Education Services.” CARES is designed to reduce burdens on the EMS system by providing non-emergency services (within supervision of the applicable medical program director) to those suffering from crises that do not necessarily rise to the level of an emergency—such as issues involving mental health, substance abuse or poverty, or issues specific to the elderly. WPFR’s plan was to get its CARES program implemented in 2020. Covid got in the way of that and therefore WPFR is hoping to implement a CARES program in 2021. Jim has great hopes for the program. He opened up his presentation for questions.
Jim Bisceglia asked a question pertaining to how 911 dispatchers (and law enforcement) would be involved in the context of these low-acuity calls. Chief Sharp stated that this is an ongoing conversation nationwide. Chief Sharp noted that it is very difficult for dispatchers to isolate calls by type, and therefore EMS may be dispatched to certain calls which could have been properly addressed by law enforcement.
Dave Coleman—who initially was muted but who made it out of the darkness—thanked WPFR for responding to a few emergencies involving his son, who was suffering from sepsis. WPFR transported his son to St. Clare, and he is doing well. Dave gave $20 for that. Jim wished Dave’s son well.
Jim Rooks thanked Chief Sharp for the amazing presentation. Jim adjourned the meeting at 1:29 PM.
Above: West Pierce F& R: Save Lives, Improve Health & Safety, and Protect Property
The non-jokes today were brought to you by https://bestlifeonline.com/anti-jokes/
Oh yes, remember that if you shop online, do so at Amazon Smile so a portion of your purchase can be allocated to Lakewood Rotary. Also, if you read this bulletin, tell Greg Rediske so you can get a make-up for a missed meeting.
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Looking Forward...and Back
Sunday, July 18, 2021 By: Paula T. Olson
Looking forward…and BackTHE LAKEWOOD KEY for July 16, 2021
Our newly minted President Jim Rooks started the meeting on time. No tricks, no rap music, no dad jokes, just a nice, pleasant “okay folks let’s rock and roll” or something like that. Paula Olson read an invocation as a prayer for travelers. President Jim did a bang up job leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Leanna Christian was at the zoom helm and John Lowney was ready to take any “donations.”
Pres Jim thanked Phil Eng for a very successful Floating Board Meeting the day before but the bad news was that Jim’s wife, Penny, lost her wedding ring. Pres Jim was offering a reward for its recovery. Mike Murtha came to the rescue by donating a metal detector to look for it. Look for an update next week.
Above: One of the Floating Board boats
Leanna had a special announcement: Hybrid meetings! Oh boy. That means that you can show up in person or stay in your hot tub and zoom into the meeting. Thanks to Sally Porter Smith taking the pulse of the club in terms of who would come in person and who would zoom; it turns out 69% of us will do either. Leanna, Rob Erb, Tom George and others have formed a committee to figure out what equipment is necessary to carry this out. The team asked the club to approve $7,000 to buy the right equipment. A motion was made, seconded, and passed with no discussion and the vote approving the request was unanimous. Go forth and buy!
Pres Jim is bringing back a tradition started by Chris Kimball to spotlight a member. This week was Sally Porter Smith. Sally told her story with pictures from her life. She grew up in Southwest Washington in view of Mount St. Helens, Mount Rainier, and Mount Adams. Her dad ran a small lumber mill in Randle and then they moved to Centralia. Sally was a skeet shooter as a kid and cleaned so many small birds from her hunting family that she refuses to do it ever again. Her family was big into hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking. When Sally was 10 years old, she was in third grade and walked into a library for the first time. That was all it took. Her career as a librarian took her to many communities and many kinds of libraries. She is retired now and enjoys the outdoors with hiking and spending time in cabins around the state. She ended with a picture of Mount St. Helens taken from the roof of the family lumber mill and a beautiful picture of Spirit Lake as it is today. Thank you, Sally for sharing your story with us! President Jim called on members to sign up for the spotlight…. or he’ll call on you.
Above: A Before Picture of Mount St. Helens
Anthony Veliz was a guest at the meeting. Puffins in attendance were Carl Bronkema, Rachel Mazoff, Steve Saalfeld, James Osundwa, Wendy McGowan, and our honorary Puffin, Carole Wier. There was no Sunshine report but Don Daniels announced that Mr. Dennis (a dear friend of the club) and his family are struggling with health issues. Don said they need our thoughts and prayers but no calls or visits. He was a basketball coach for Clover Park and director of the driver’s ed program.
Pres Jim asked the club to approve a budget of $8,000 for the Partners by a show of hands. Everyone’s hand went up because we know we aren’t nearly as effective without the participation of our Partners. Tom George continued his plea for help setting up the meetings once we are in person. He said that it will be about an hour before and after the meetings to deal with the hybrid equipment but that once we get used to the new system, it won’t take as long. So sign up, people!
Steve Mazoff reported that he is getting started with the ring recovery and asked if anyone left a pair of sunglasses.
Warning, club members! President Jim is trying to change “fines” into “generous giving.” Nice try, Prez! It’s still fines. And we had some nice fines. Chris Kimball kicked in $100 for achieving a secret dream in his career: to earn a Top of the Table award, which he did last year. Congrats, Chris! And his son Donny got married so Chris put in another $100. Rachel Mazoff donated $50 for her promotion to Quality Manager for Behavior Health and proud dad, Steve, matched it. Steve Enquist pledged $48 for his and Anne’s 48th wedding anniversary, which they celebrated at the Floating Board meeting. Hhmmm, Steve, gotta work on that romance thing. Anne matched Steve and rounded up to $50. So Steve matched that to make it an even $100.
Above: What a cake! What a Year!
Phil Eng thanked everyone for the successful Floating Board meeting and talked about how much work went into it. He thanked Rick Selden, Bud Montgomery, Gayle Selden and John Lowney, who cut those steaks. Greg Horn thanked everyone for the surprise celebration of his ending year as District Governor. He paid $100.
Above: The District Gov and his Chief of Staff
David Swindale just got back from three weeks in Hawaii but not lying on the beach. He was helping his dad recover from surgery and Dad is now doing well. Sally Porter Smith paid $100 because last week she paddled a kayak for the first time in four years and after her hip replacement surgery! Jim Rooks (yep the President) paid $50 because he scored a late ticket to the Seamus cocktail lesson on Sunday. Mike Murtha and Andrew Neiditz also paid fines.
Now to the program. Phil Eng introduced Puffin Steve Saalfeld who works in donor relations. He was previously with Good Samaritan Foundation and now works with Mary Bridge Children’s Foundation. Steve met his wife, Jennifer in biology class. They live in Fircrest with their four children. Two are in college, and the twins are still at home. Steve likes to read, spend time with his family, hide away in his treehouse, and lots of sports. He was training for the Courage but got blood clots in his leg and had to stop. He’s hoping he can resume so he’ll be ready. Speaking of the Courage, we need volunteers to work at our rest stop. The Courage is August 28th and 29th.
Steve told us the history of Mary Bridge Hospital which is celebrating 100 years. Back in 1921, the Tacoma Orthopedic Association (TOA) was formed to help children get medical care in Seattle by driving them up there for appointments and paying the $2.50 a day for a bed in the hospital. That organization later became the Mary Bridge Brigade, which is still in existence today. In the early ‘40s, guilds were formed and at their height had 2,500 members. They were primarily stay at home moms who would organize events to raise money. For example they would have roller skating parties and passed out wishing candles at taverns and restaurants for people to donate change. Over the years, they raised $50 million.
In 1947, a local physician named Albert W. Bridge passed away. He had amassed a surprisingly large estate and intended that the money would be used to build a children’s hospital in Tacoma. He wanted it named after his mother, Mary, because of her support in helping him become a doctor. Dr. Bridge partly earned his money by practicing in Eatonville with loggers as patients. He charged them $1.00 a month for care. He was the Mayor of Eatonville for a while and once chased down robbers and lectured them sternly for their wrongdoing. In 1953-54, his hopes were realized when plans were announced for the building of a 60-bed general children's hospital. It was built in 1955 and in 1987 expanded into Tacoma General Hospital. The first Festival of Trees was held then and other than 2020, has been a key fundraiser ever since. In 1994, Mary Bridge was the only emergency room for pediatric trauma with a helipad coming in 1996. Steve told the story of a nurse who was so proud of these services for children.
In 2005, the Mary Bridge Children’s Health Center was opened in celebration of the 50th anniversary. In 2008, the Treehouse program started giving out of town families a place to stay so they can be with their sick children at no cost to them. 2011 brought the first separate emergency department to care for children. Steve gave us many amazing statistics showing the number of children helped and the range of services provided to children. 70% of that care is paid by Medicaid so no child is turned away.
One of the key partners for Mary Bridge is the Rotary Clubs of Pierce County including the Lakewood Rotary. There is a plaque on the Safe and Sound Building dedicated for the Child Abuse Intervention Department announcing the donation of Rotary Clubs. In 2020, Mary Bridge received for the third time an award as one of the top children’s hospitals in the country. They are rated by the Leap Frog Group and it is a great honor.
What’s next? Coming at the end of 2024 is a new stand-alone hospital with 82 private rooms, lots of technology and services, and much shelled space for future expansion. Steve showed us some pictures of what they hope it looks like, including some purple lighting that will change color with the seasons and special events. Mary Bridge Brigade has donated $10 million for the project and the Emergency Department was named in their honor. To help, you can donate $200 and get a special Mary Bridge recycling cart.
Several members commented on Steve’s presentation. Pres Jim said that he had many cases at Mary Bridge in their old operating room. Members talked about what a great thing Mary Bridge is for the community.
Thanks Steve for an informative program.
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A Real Community
Sunday, July 11, 2021 By: Joseph F. Quinn
LAKEWOOD – A REAL COMMUNITYTHE LAKEWOOD KEY FOR JULY 9, 2021
President Jim Rooks called his second meeting of the new Rotary Year to order right on time. He called upon Bob Hammar who gave a fine invocation. Jan Gee led us well in the Pledge to our flag.
President Jim then asked for a moment of silence to honor Ward Fletcher, who passed away earlier this week. Rick Selden then delivered a brief eulogy of Ward, noting that this quiet-spoken Rotarian always worked on projects. Ward never raised his voice; he just did his job, Rick said. On the Fort Steilacoom Playground project, Ward organized all of the food for the scores of volunteers. A big job for sure. He always helped at the Courage Classic rest stop up near Leavenworth, bringing his motor home to provide security. Ward was the epitome of service. (Ed. Note: Ward was the most humble person you’d ever want to meet. He had earned many, many Paul Harris awards but never wanted anyone to mention how many, as he did not do it for the recognition at all.)
President Jim then thanked Leanna Christian for her help in hosting the Zoom and her great PR work for Lakewood Rotary. Jim also mentioned that our erstwhile Treasurer John Lowney stands ready to accept fines and do all things financial.
(At this point, my mind wandered to the idea that “President Jim” sounds sorta lame and that this writer used to always think of nicknames early in the Presidential year. So let’s see….”President Rooks?” (too formal); “JustJim” (cuz he is so humble); “The Rookster” (Ooolala, I like that one!); “The Runner” (that’s why he’s so lean and healthy); “The Lake Diver” (he did it once so we can make him do it again). The possibilities are endless.)
Above: President Jim: “The Runner?”
Next, President Rooks noted that the assigned bulletin writer was MIA and wondered aloud what would happen there. As we all know, there is an army that supports the LR President, so not to worry … some sucker will step forward.
Under “Guests” on the agenda, JustJim introduced Anthony Veliz who he knows through the Lakewood (community) Multi-Cultural Coalition. Anthony is also in his second year serving on the Clover Park School Board. Who thinks he should be a member of Rotary? A lot of hands went up. The Rookster (ooolala) then welcomed back member Skip Stephan who has not been with us for a while.
The Runner then featured all Puffins in attendance this day, but noted that really some of them have passed the one-year mark and should no longer be considered Puffins. He called out Tom George, Brehen Freeman, and Mike Murtha in that regard and it was noted that Carole Wier is getting close to the threshold too. We love our Puffins and we want more.
Above: See how we love Puffins
With one eye on the chat box, your writer today noticed that John Lowney said that Little Free Pantries 5 and 6 have now been installed! Amazing that those are popping up so fast all over Lakewood so we are grateful to Sally Porter Smith, Rose Stevens, Bob Zawilski, John Lowney, Mark Blanchard, and a few others I am too dumb to remember, for the LFP idea which has taken off rapidly in this community.
Above: LFPS proliferating! What a community!
There was no Sunshine Report today as John Forkenbrock was not “in the house” (some hackneyed phrases carry over from year to year). Seriously, we had enough of sickness etc. for one day.
The Lake Diver then said he and President-Elect Jason Whalen have a desire to resurrect an idea put forward by Past President Chris Kimball (I think that’s who it was): the Member Spotlight. So if you want to spend 1-2 minutes at a meeting telling the new members who you are, or what you do (for those who are still employed) just contact President Rooks.
President Jim then called for announcements. Starting that off himself, JustJim said the Military Appreciation Committee is sponsoring a LR golf team of four to play at Whispering Firs Golf Course at McChord (aka JBLM) AFB on August 14th. It is a fundraiser for the Air Force Association and the Daedalians, so if you like cigars and booze this is for you. Rob Erb needs three more golfers so contact him. Oh, forgot to mention that it is free as LR’s Military Appreciation Committee is paying for the round of golf, the cart, and the food. All fees paid! Jan Gee asked if volunteers to help are needed, which prompted the Rookster (ooolala) to mention that we are sponsoring a hole and need one or more persons to staff that hole during the tourney.
The Runner then noted that the next Board Meeting of Lakewood Rotary is this coming Wednesday, the day before the Floating Board Meeting. You should arrive at the Tacoma Country & Golf Club at 5:00 p.m. for that meeting.
Speaking of Fellowship, the Lake Diver called on Phil Eng to discuss upcoming events. Phil reviewed for new members the long history of the Floating Board Meeting, which used to be a board meeting but is now strictly a social event. Be there on Thursday evening this coming week! This year it will again be held at Holly Hedge, near the homes of Rotarians Steve Mazoff, Dave Reames, and Jason Whalen. Phil said to bring tents if you need shelter from that sun. We will have steaks and drinks and the cost is only $15 per person. It was noted that the day may include boat rides on historic Lake Steilacoom as the Horns and the Rediskes both have party boats.
President Jim asked Tom George to speak about our prospects for holding hybrid meetings, with an in-person group as always meeting at the Country Club but others, as needed, participating remotely. Before speaking, however, Tom lamented the fact that there was no “cap and gown ceremony” for those members graduating from Puffoonery to being seasoned (old) members. Sorry Tom. Mr. George said our first meeting back at the club will be August 27th and hopefully this hybrid option will be available. But they need “operators” for the equipment to make that system run smoothly. This new committee would set up and take down the equipment at meetings. The current “hybrid meeting committee” will of course train the newbies
JustJim then explained the tradition (that was lost during the pandemic and Zoom meetings) of passing on the actual Puffin (well, not a real bird but a reasonable stuffed facsimile) when a brand new member is inducted. Usually a gleeful affair!
Someone pointed out that the Courage is scheduled for August 28-29. Volunteers to be asked for soon.
Well it was time for fines but Gentleman Jim (a new p
(At this point, my mind wandered to the idea that “President Jim” sounds sorta lame and that this writer used to always think of nicknames early in the Presidential year. So let’s see….”President Rooks?” (too formal); “JustJim” (cuz he is so humble); “The Rookster” (Ooolala, I like that one!); “The Runner” (that’s why he’s so lean and healthy); “The Lake Diver” (he did it once so we can make him do it again). The possibilities are endless.)
Above: President Jim: “The Runner?”
Next, President Rooks noted that the assigned bulletin writer was MIA and wondered aloud what would happen there. As we all know, there is an army that supports the LR President, so not to worry … some sucker will step forward.
Under “Guests” on the agenda, JustJim introduced Anthony Veliz who he knows through the Lakewood (community) Multi-Cultural Coalition. Anthony is also in his second year serving on the Clover Park School Board. Who thinks he should be a member of Rotary? A lot of hands went up. The Rookster (ooolala) then welcomed back member Skip Stephan who has not been with us for a while.
The Runner then featured all Puffins in attendance this day, but noted that really some of them have passed the one-year mark and should no longer be considered Puffins. He called out Tom George, Brehen Freeman, and Mike Murtha in that regard and it was noted that Carole Wier is getting close to the threshold too. We love our Puffins and we want more.
Above: See how we love Puffins
With one eye on the chat box, your writer today noticed that John Lowney said that Little Free Pantries 5 and 6 have now been installed! Amazing that those are popping up so fast all over Lakewood so we are grateful to Sally Porter Smith, Rose Stevens, Bob Zawilski, John Lowney, Mark Blanchard, and a few others I am too dumb to remember, for the LFP idea which has taken off rapidly in this community.
Above: LFPS proliferating! What a community!
There was no Sunshine Report today as John Forkenbrock was not “in the house” (some hackneyed phrases carry over from year to year). Seriously, we had enough of sickness etc. for one day.
The Lake Diver then said he and President-Elect Jason Whalen have a desire to resurrect an idea put forward by Past President Chris Kimball (I think that’s who it was): the Member Spotlight. So if you want to spend 1-2 minutes at a meeting telling the new members who you are, or what you do (for those who are still employed) just contact President Rooks.
President Jim then called for announcements. Starting that off himself, JustJim said the Military Appreciation Committee is sponsoring a LR golf team of four to play at Whispering Firs Golf Course at McChord (aka JBLM) AFB on August 14th. It is a fundraiser for the Air Force Association and the Daedalians, so if you like cigars and booze this is for you. Rob Erb needs three more golfers so contact him. Oh, forgot to mention that it is free as LR’s Military Appreciation Committee is paying for the round of golf, the cart, and the food. All fees paid! Jan Gee asked if volunteers to help are needed, which prompted the Rookster (ooolala) to mention that we are sponsoring a hole and need one or more persons to staff that hole during the tourney.
The Runner then noted that the next Board Meeting of Lakewood Rotary is this coming Wednesday, the day before the Floating Board Meeting. You should arrive at the Tacoma Country & Golf Club at 5:00 p.m. for that meeting.
Speaking of Fellowship, the Lake Diver called on Phil Eng to discuss upcoming events. Phil reviewed for new members the long history of the Floating Board Meeting, which used to be a board meeting but is now strictly a social event. Be there on Thursday evening this coming week! This year it will again be held at Holly Hedge, near the homes of Rotarians Steve Mazoff, Dave Reames, and Jason Whalen. Phil said to bring tents if you need shelter from that sun. We will have steaks and drinks and the cost is only $15 per person. It was noted that the day may include boat rides on historic Lake Steilacoom as the Horns and the Rediskes both have party boats.
President Jim asked Tom George to speak about our prospects for holding hybrid meetings, with an in-person group as always meeting at the Country Club but others, as needed, participating remotely. Before speaking, however, Tom lamented the fact that there was no “cap and gown ceremony” for those members graduating from Puffoonery to being seasoned (old) members. Sorry Tom. Mr. George said our first meeting back at the club will be August 27th and hopefully this hybrid option will be available. But they need “operators” for the equipment to make that system run smoothly. This new committee would set up and take down the equipment at meetings. The current “hybrid meeting committee” will of course train the newbies
JustJim then explained the tradition (that was lost during the pandemic and Zoom meetings) of passing on the actual Puffin (well, not a real bird but a reasonable stuffed facsimile) when a brand new member is inducted. Usually a gleeful affair!
Someone pointed out that the Courage is scheduled for August 28-29. Volunteers to be asked for soon.
Well it was time for fines but Gentleman Jim (a new p