MEETING RECAP
Sunday, April 24, 2022
By: Mary MarlinWelcome to Earth Day
THE 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 More
Sponsors
