Stories
President Bob Hermann, Jr. (Information Technology: Administration | Retired) welcomed Rotarians and today's speaker — Brennan Bowen. Thought of the Day Bridget Mahoney (Nonprofit Administration | Catholic Charities SF) read today's Thought of the Day which was "In a world facing complex challenges, service is the simplest yet most profound way to bridge and conquer divides." A Look Back President Bob reflected on the work that our Club accomplished in the first six months of his presidency. In addition to the fun social events, our Members have participated in RYLA, Club Visioning, the DEI Film Festival, PRLS, Rotary Meadow, San Francisco/Marin Food Bank, Heroes Voices, Emergency Services Day, an Alliance for Smiles mission, Rotary Jeopardy, Homeless Prenatal Program, the Alzheimer's Walk, Friendsgiving, The Arc Thanksgiving, Rotaplast, and Family House. |
Rotary Club of San Francisco Celebrates Thanksgiving with The Arc San FranciscoThe Rotary Club of San Francisco continued its long-standing tradition of celebrating Thanksgiving by providing a warm holiday meal to the participants of The Arc San Francisco. This year, a total of 470 meals were prepared for both The Arc participants and staff at their San Francisco and Burlingame Centers, ensuring that everyone could experience the joy of a festive Thanksgiving meal. Leading this special project was Past President of the Rotary Club of San Francisco and Past District 5150 Governor, Eric Schmautz, along with John Scopazzi from the Rotary Club of San Rafael. Together, they organized the preparation of hot, delicious meals with a Thanksgiving theme for those in need from The Arc community facing food insecurity. Larry Booth, Sue Robbins, and Todd St Vrain joined PDG Eric and John to do the cooking. |
EVENING MEETING HIGHLIGHTS: November 21, 2024President Bob Hermann, Jr. (Information Technology: Administration | Retired) welcomed Rotarians and guests to our Evening Meeting at MoMo's on November 21, 2024. Due to the success of the Evening Meeting Pilot Program, the Board of Directors agreed to continue the monthly Evening Meeting through President Bob's Rotary year. President Bob and Dan Joraanstad (Financial Services: Advising | Retired) passed out lemons from their yard for all to enjoy. Member Moment Mary Gorski (Retired) led the Member Moment. She introduced herself as a new member of our Club. Mary has a long history of volunteering and joined our Club to explore new volunteer opportunities. She is drawn toward maternal health and RYLA. Vocationally, Mary has worked in real estate, as a yoga instructor, and as a book seller. She has three adult daughters and enjoys living an active lifestyle. Welcome to the Club, Mary, and thanks for sharing your story! Christopher Wiseman (San Francisco Rotary Foundation) talked about the recent service project at Family House. See full story here. The next opportunity to volunteer at Family House will be in spring 2025. |
October 2024 Board HighlightsRotary Service, Inc. The Trustees of Rotary Service, Inc. met on October 29, 2024 via Zoom. President Bob Hermann called the meeting to order at 4:05 PM. Nancy Graydon, Secretary, recorded the minutes. In attendance were Gary Dales, Stephen Geisheker, Tim Hornbecker, Bridget Mahoney, Maureen O’Shea, President Bob Hermann, Immediate Past President Sunny Singh, Nancy Graydon, Darlene Wilson, Ozan Yasavur, Christopher Wiseman, and President-Elect Frank Yoke, constituting a quorum. Absent were: Dan Davies, Margaret Miley, and Todd St Vrain. Our guests were JT Forbus and Executive Secretary Dora Dye. Minutes The Trustees approved the amended July 23, 2024 Service, Inc. minutes as follows:
The Trustees approved the September 24, 2024 minutes. |
Family House: Recent Service Project and Toy DriveRecently, members and friends of the Rotary Club San Francisco volunteered at Family House. We had the privilege of spending time in a place that embodies true compassion. Family House provides complimentary housing, meals, and support to families with children receiving critical treatment at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital. It is not just a place to stay; it is a sanctuary of care and stability for families.
In addition to a $5,000 grant from the San Francisco Rotary Foundation, we contributed volunteer hours by helping with cleaning, restocking, and serving dinner. Each task was a small part of creating a space where families can focus on being together. Family House will also be the beneficiary of the Toy Drive for the Rotary Club of San Francisco’s Annual Holiday Party on December 17, 2024. |
Rotaplast International Gala: Passport to the PhilippinesA dynamic, Saturday evening gala at the Basque Cultural Center in South San Francisco on November 15, 2024 showcased the life-changing work of Rotaplast International, Inc. Rotaplast is a global organization providing medical care to children with cleft lip and/or palate, burn scarring, or other deformities. This organization initiated as a world community service project of the Rotary Club of San Francisco in 1992-1993. Ten Club members and their spouse attended the first mission in La Serena, Chile in January 1993. Included in this group were Angelo and Louise Capozzi, Kay Clarke, Peter and Elaine Lagarias, Charles and Sandra Massen, Jim and Jo Patrick, and Rosey Wong. Rotaplast Co-Founders Dr. Angelo Capozzi, MD, and Peter Lagarias, Esq. reflected on the creation of Rotaplast, the many missions that they have been on (more than 90 missions for Angelo), and their ongoing commitment to the cause. Both met as Rotarians with the Rotary Club of San Francisco. Peter became past president of our Club and went on to become a Past District Governor of Rotary District 5150. Angelo is now a member of the Rotary Club of Tiburon/Belvedere. Joining Angelo and Peter were Executive Director Daniel DeSanto and Medical Team Coordinator Evelyn Abad. Both Daniel and Evelyn are also members of our Rotary Club; they shared updates on Rotaplast's current projects and how the organization has adapted in the post-pandemic world. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS November 12, 2024: Meghan Freebeck, Basic Needs in a Challenging WorldPresident Bob Hermann, Jr. (Information Technology: Administration | Retired) called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM. He noted that today was the anniversary of the founding of our Club in 1908. Today's Guests Our guests were Erick Brown, Eric Eisenman, Fiorela Martinez, Erica Nave, and Tonja Sagun. Our speaker was Meghan Freebeck. Welcome to all! Thought of the Day Anil Bhargava (Economist | Banyan Consulting) read today's Thought of the Day by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: “Everyone can be great, because everyone can serve.” |
What's New in the Rotary Club of San Francisco!We enter the latter half of November 2024 when the holiday season begins. Looking ahead, you will find Thanksgiving at The Arc, a Cookie Making Workshop, and of course, our Holiday Party and Annual Meeting. Please plan to join us at one or all of these festive events. Our upcoming service projects include the Homeless Prenatal Program Diaper Bag Assembly and the Catholic Charities Community Holiday Celebration. Volunteer and spread some holiday cheer in our community. In addition, we will offer Club meetings on Tuesdays at lunch or on Thursday once a month in the evening. The next Evening Meeting is on Thursday, November 21. Start the year of 2025 off with an American Music Fun-Raiser on January 11, 2025. Please check our Club Calendar for Committee meetings and other activities to come. Many of our Committees are looking for additional members. |
Report from the Nominating CommitteeIn accordance with our Club's Bylaws, the Nominating Committee has selected these candidates for open positions on the Board of Directors: 2025-26 President: Frank R. Yoke, III 2025-26 President-Elect: Ozan Yasavur 2025-27 Club Treasurer: Gary Dales 2025-27 Club Secretary: Dora Dye 2025-27 Vice President of Youth Services: Stellie Kim 2025-27 Vice President of Club Services: Ann Daugherty 2025-27 Vice President of Public Relations/Public Image: Wendy Shew 2025-27 Vice President of Vocational Services: Hana Wang All Club members are invited to attend the Annual Meeting, to be held at the Holiday Party on December 17, 2024, to vote on these nominations. Thank you to the following members who served on this year's Nominating Committee: Frank Yoke (Committee Chair), Ann Daugherty, David Dye, JT Forbus, Bob Hermann, Mary Liu, Scott Plakun, Wendy Shew, Sunny Singh, Lisa Stark, and Christopher Wiseman.
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LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS November 5, 2024: Aditi Desai, California Institute for Regenerative MedicinePresident Bob Hermann, Jr. (Information Technology: Administration | Retired) called the meeting to order at 12:16 PM. As today was Election Day, he asked the audience if everyone had voted. Visiting Rotarian and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarian was Jorma Rättö from the Rotary Club of Hyvinkää in Finland. Joining Jorma was his partner, Taina. Other guests were Jennifer Jaime, Emily Matey, Eric Sleigh, Christina Smith, and Chan Tan. Our speaker was Aditi Desai. Welcome to all! Flag Exchange President Bob exchanged Rotary flags with Jorma Rättö. Thought of the Day Sue Robbins (Nonprofit Administration | Catholic Charities SF) read today's Thought of the Day by Mitch Albom: “Family is about love and support. This is part of what a family is about, not just love. It's knowing that your family will be there watching out for you.” |
September 2024 Board HighlightsRotary Service, Inc. The Trustees of Rotary Service, Inc. met on September 24, 2024 via Zoom. President Bob Hermann called the meeting to order at 4:03 PM. Nancy Graydon, Secretary, recorded the minutes. In attendance were Stephen Geisheker, Tim Hornbecker, Margaret Miley, Maureen O’Shea, President Bob Hermann, Immediate Past President Sunny Singh, Nancy Graydon, Christopher Wiseman, and President-Elect Frank Yoke, constituting a quorum. Absent were: Dan Davies, Bridget Mahoney, Darlene Wilson, Ozan Yasavur, Gary Dales, and Todd St Vrain. Our guests were Mary Liu and Executive Secretary Dora Dye. Minutes The Trustees approved the July 23, 2024 minutes. There were no minutes from August 20, 2024 due to the District Governor's visit on that day. |
July 2024 Board HighlightsRotary Club of San Francisco The Rotary Club of San Francisco Board of Directors met on July 23, 2024 via Zoom. President Bob Hermann called his first meeting to order at 4:01 PM. Nancy Graydon, Secretary, recorded the minutes. In attendance were Gary Dales, Tim Hornbecker, Margaret Miley, Maureen O’Shea, President Bob Hermann, Immediate Past President Sunny Singh, Darlene Wilson, Ozan Yasavur, Nancy Graydon, and President-Elect Frank Yoke, constituting a quorum. Absent were: Dan Davies, Stephen Geisheker, Bridget Mahoney, and Todd St Vrain. Our guests were San Francisco Rotary Foundation President Christopher Wiseman, Executive Secretary Dora Dye, and Dan Joraanstad. Minutes The Board reviewed and approved the June 25, 2024 minutes. |
Membership News: October 2024The Board of the Rotary Club of San Francisco has approved the following candidate for individual membership into our Club: Anil Bhargava (Economist | Banyan Consulting). Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about this proposed addition to our membership. |
EVENING MEETING HIGHLIGHTS October 24, 2024President Bob Hermann, Jr. (Information Technology: Administration | Retired) rang the Rotary bell at 6:35 PM and called to order our Club's fourth evening meeting at MoMo's. He welcomed everyone in the audience and noted that today (October 24, 2024) was Rotary's annual World Polio Day. Rotarians around the world use this day as an opportunity to showcase the status of the eradication effort and to reiterate steps that need to be taken to ultimately achieve a lasting world free of all polioviruses. President Bob reported that currently 55 cases of polio have occurred in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Visiting Rotarians and Guests This evening's Visiting Rotarians were Volodymyr Goshylyk from the Rotary Club of Berkeley and Jean Akide from the Rotary Club of Nairobi. Our guests were Jennifer Braschayko, Mary Gorski, Claudia Gonzalvez, Howard Hill, Albert Lee, Elena Lee, Lisa Lee, Lydia Patterson, Henry Rubin, Eric Sleigh, and Kevin Tran. Family House Tonight's well attended meeting followed on the heels of an afternoon tour of Family House down the street on Mission Bay Boulevard North led by Chief Development Officer Michele Martinez Reese from Family House and Past President Christopher Wiseman from our Club. Family House serves as a home away from home for families of children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses by providing physical comfort and emotional support, free from financial concerns. This Rotary year our Club awarded Family House a $5,000 grant to fund the Family House Dinner Program. |
Together We Made a Difference: A Successful Walk to End Alzheimer’sIn an inspiring display of community spirit, our Club members, along with Rotarians from District 5150, came together for the San Francisco Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Saturday, October 19, 2024. A standout moment of the day was our Club’s enthusiastic participation. Dressed in our custom bright neon yellow vests, our members were a symbol of unity and commitment, instantly recognizable throughout the event. In fact, our Club members proudly led the walk procession! |
2024 Emergency Services Day: Honoring Bravery and ServiceEmergency Services Day (ESD) honors those who protect and support our City and Bay. The Honorees for the 2024 Emergency Services Day held on October 22, 2024 were: Deputy Patrick Dungo of the San Francisco Sheriff's Office; Emergency Medical Technician José Hernandez-Onofre and Paramedic Eric Soto of the San Francisco Fire Department; Officer Vincent Masilang of the San Francisco Police Department; and Boatswain's Mate First Class Chuck Baldwin of the United States Coast Guard. Each became a hero for either saving a human life or protecting our community. This year's ESD drew Rotarians from our Club — the Rotary Club of San Francisco — AND from the Rotary Clubs of Belmont-Redwood Shores, Half Moon Bay, Menlo Park, Pacifica, San Francisco Chinatown, San Francisco Greater Mission, San Francisco South of Market, and across the ocean from Bologna-Felsineo in Italy. Our special guests were the Honorees mentioned above, their family members, and their command teams. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS October 8, 2024: Sasha Vasilyuk and Ukrainian Stories from World War II to TodayPresident Bob Hermann, Jr. (Information Technology: Administration | Retired) opened today's meeting at 12:15 PM and asked members to be kind to each other. Visiting Rotarian and Guest Today's Visiting Rotarian was Volodymyr Goshylyk from the Rotary Club of Berkeley. Our speaker was Sasha Vasilyuk. Thought of the Day Today's Thought of the Day by C. JoyBell C. was “Where there is kindness, there is goodness. Where there is goodness, there is magic.” |
Remembering Thelma-Jeanne (TJ) TaylorIt is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Thelma-Jeanne (TJ) Taylor on September 6, 2024. TJ joined Rotary on January 6, 1987 and was a member of our Club from January 6, 1987 to December 31, 2008. Looking back at history, this means that TJ joined Rotary when women were first allowed. While in our Club, TJ was very active and a model Rotarian. You can read more about TJ here. She is survived by her husband, Curtis, who was a member of our Club from January 17, 1978 to June 30, 2010. TJ and Curtis met each other at our Rotary Club. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS October 1, 2024: Robert Schwentker and Unlocking the Power of Generative AIPresident Bob Hermann, Jr. (Information Technology: Administration | Retired) rang the Rotary bell at 12:17 PM. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were Werner Sattleger from the Rotary Club of Klagenfurt-Lindwurm in Austria, Camille Newbern from the Rotary Club of San Diego, Volodymyr Goshylyk from the Rotary Club of Berkeley, Kerry Wood from the Rotary Club of Sacramento, our own past president Rhonda Poppen who is now a member of the Rotary Club of Sacramento, and Yuhui Guo from the Rotary Club of San Jose. Other guests included Rosa Granadillo-Schwentker, Toni Sutherland, Darlena Torres, Andy Douchin, and Jill Chan. Our speaker was Robert Schwentker. Thought of the Day Scott Plakun (Management Consulting | The Plakun Group) read today's Thought of the Day which was “…reap and ye shall sow”. |
Recap of the October 2024 Welcome to the ClubOn October 2, 2024, we held a Welcome Party for the Club in the Community Room at Sports Basement at the Presidio. Despite the warm weather and nearby construction for the Tunnel Tops Park extension, many people showed up to learn more about the Rotary Club of San Francisco. Vice President of Membership, Margaret Miley, along with her dedicated membership team led this event. Kayla Trunecek secured the free community space for the gathering, Dan Joraanstad helped to frame the discussion topics. Dora Dye, David Dye, Margaret Miley, and Ann Daugherty facilitated the small group sessions. President Bob Hermann dropped in to listen to and engage with the different groups. He learned about the interests and thoughts of prospective members. Overall, it was a successful evening filled with open dialogue about our projects and an excellent opportunity for attendees to learn more about our Club, who we are, and what we do in our world. Go Membership! |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS September 17, 2024: Jazz and Cabaret with Paula West and Adam ShulmanPresident Bob Hermann, Jr. (Information Technology: Administration | Retired) welcomed everyone either at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko or online. Visiting Rotarian and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarian was our own past president Rhonda Poppen who is now a member of the Rotary Club of Sacramento. Our guest was Benjamin Werner. Our speaker was Paula West, and her guest was Adam Shulman. Thought of the Day Lisa Stark (Communications & Media) read today's Thought of the Day by Aretha Franklin: "Being the Queen is not all about singing, and being a diva is not all about singing. It has much to do with your service to people. And your social contributions to your community and your civic contributions as well." |
News from our ClubEnvironmental Project Funded Congratulations to Club Members Caitlyn Eller and Yana Sharma for securing a $1,000 grant from Rotary District 5150 for an exciting environmental project. The project will be in collaboration with the Rotary Club of San Francisco Castro who also secured a $1,000 grant from Rotary District 5150. This hands-on, educational event will explore the vital role of insects in our ecosystem. Participants will build and paint insect houses, taste bee-produced foods, and hear from 2-4 guest speakers on topics like bees, insects, and their impact on local and international communities. All including youth are encouraged to participate. Stay tuned for more details. Membership Dues Reminder We appreciate your commitment to our Club! If your membership dues are current, thank you, and feel free to skip the rest of this message. Timely payment of dues is crucial for sustaining our Club and supporting our initiatives. Your dues cover:
To ease payment, we offer flexible plans — monthly and quarterly — managed by our Club Treasurer, Gary Dales. For your convenience, you can easily find the payment option that suits your needs on our Club’s website For annual dues, we prefer payments at the beginning of the year. Timely payments help us to manage expenses effectively and strengthen our community. If you need assistance or wish to pay by check or phone, please contact President Bob Hermann or Treasurer Gary Dales Thank you for your ongoing support of our Rotary mission!
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Rotary Jeopardy: Oh, what funOn Friday, September 20, 2024, the following Rotarians and friends gathered for a potluck and a game of Rotary Jeopardy. Tonight's contestants were the following teams: Paul Harris' Heroes (consisting of Walt Gladwin and Shari Teresi from the Rotary Club of Millbrae and David Dye and Mary Liu from the Rotary Club of San Francisco); Arch Klumph's Kingpins (consisting of Dora Dye and Dan Joraanstad from the Rotary Club of San Francisco, Anna Yang from the Rotary Club of San Francisco West, and our guest, Henry Rubin); and Steve Wright's Wizards (consisting of Lisa Stark from the Rotary Club of San Francisco, Deirdri Gladwin and Frank Seebode from the Rotary Club of Millbrae, and our guest, Ami Seebode). Our Jeopardy host was Joe Teresi (aka Guy Smiley) from the Rotary Club of Millbrae. Like the game that we watch on television, there were three rounds: Jeopardy!, Double Jeopardy!, and Final Jeopardy! The tension was high among the three teams. |
August 2024 Board HighlightsRotary Club of San Francisco
The Rotary Club of San Francisco Board of Directors met on August 20, 2024. President Bob Hermann called the meeting to order at 10:30 AM. President-elect Frank Yoke recorded the minutes due to the absence of Secretary Nancy Graydon. In attendance were Maureen O'Shea, Sunny Singh, Ozan Yasavur, President Bob Hermann, Todd St Vrain, Bridget Mahoney, Gary Dales, Darlene Wilson, Stephen Geisheker, Margaret Miley, and President-elect Frank Yoke, constituting a quorum. Absent were Nancy Graydon, Tim Hornbecker, and Dan Davies. Today’s guests were District Governor Steve Wright and Assistant Governor Erik Scheller. |
Membership News: September 2024The Board of the Rotary Club of San Francisco has approved the following candidate for individual membership into our Club: Mary Gorski (Retired). Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about this proposed addition to our membership. |
EVENING MEETING HIGHLIGHTS September 19, 2024We just held the third of our new series of Thursday evening meetings, and they continue to be a success! Starting around 6 PM on September 19, members and guests gathered at MoMo’s across from the Giants Stadium. MoMo’s offered a curtained-off section, providing a perfect setting for our group. The space was both roomy and visually appealing with views of the street and the ballpark. The restaurant was equipped with a video display, ideal for our meeting slides. While we forgot the “dongle” needed for connectivity, the attentive staff saved the day by streaming the slides from an Apple iPhone to a Windows screen without a hitch — just another example of their excellent service. A reminder for Thursdays: you only pay for what you order in terms of food and drink. The menu is delicious! I’ve enjoyed MoMo’s seafood salad and Cobb salad in the past, and this week, the fish tacos were a home run for me. The evening began casually, with members trickling in to enjoy happy hour and catch up. It was a very relaxed and pleasant atmosphere. |
Homeless Prenatal Program Graduation Ceremony: The Joy of Giving HopeSan Francisco's Homeless Prenatal Program (HPP) with the support of the Rotary Club of San Francisco recently hosted a graduation ceremony for expectant mothers. The theme was Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. Families gathered with hope to celebrate their soon-to-be arrival. The graduation celebration kicked off with excitement as Club member Darlene Wilson from Catholic Charities in San Francisco organized fun games, bringing joy and camaraderie among the mothers. Their laughter transformed the event into a celebration of new beginnings. Meanwhile, I helped with food distribution, feeling humbled by the opportunity to support these women. Handing out plates and refreshments, I felt honored to be a part of their journey, offering not just food, but a reminder that they were seen and valued. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS September 10, 2024: Rachel Kamen, Autonomous Transport and Why San Francisco is the best test casePresident Bob Hermann, Jr. (Information Technology: Administration | Retired) rang the Rotary bell at 12:15 PM. Almost 40 people sat down to enjoy a meal and a jam-packed agenda either at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko or online. Visiting Rotarian and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarian was Carmen Coll from the Rotary Club of Riom-Chatelguyon Puy de Dome in France. Carmen and President Bob exchanged Rotary flags. Barbara Streett (Nonprofit Administration | The Arc San Francisco) introduced her guests: Jonathan Doty and Esther Landau. Other guests included Anil Bhargava, Daniel Descola, Abbey Strabala, and Brent Cunningham. Our speaker was Rachel Kamen. Thought of the Day Wendy Shew (Nonprofit Administration | Building Education) read today's Thought of the Day by T.S. Eliot: "Only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far they can go." |
Rotarians Volunteered at the San Francisco-Marin Food BankOn Saturday, September 7, 2024, the following members of our Club: Elizabeth Driskill, President Bob Hermann, Dan Joraanstad, and Emily Borland along with three non-Rotarians volunteered at the San Francisco-Marin Food Bank. We partook in assembling dry goods for families and seniors across two counties. The Food Bank divided the group into different sections to work on an assembly line. Our tasks included assembling boxes, restocking dry food cans and grains for the front assembly team, packing food, moving boxes, and organizing pallets. |
Rotary Revealed: Club Visioning ResultsOn September 5, 2024, the Rotary Revealed Series, Part 2 provided an overview of the Club's Visioning process. This initiative will help establish our Club's goals for the next three years. President Bob Hermann kicked things off by recounting that earlier this year, through surveys, Zoom meetings, and in-person conferences, he led the Club in discussions on the most important objectives for the upcoming years. President Bob highlighted the four guiding themes shaping our discussion: Impact, Reach, Engage, and Adapt. Guiding Themes:
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Membership News: August 2024The Board of the Rotary Club of San Francisco has approved the following candidates for individual membership into our Club: Munkhbaatar "Mugi" Begzjav (Govermental Relations | Consulate General of Mongolia) Jennifer Braschayko (Strategic Negotiations | Google). Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about these proposed additions to our membership. The Membership Committee announces the following departure: Matthew Ramirez has left our Club.
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ROTARY REVEALED Highlights: Our 2024-2025 Club ProjectsWe’re excited to reflect on our recent Rotary Revealed session, which provided a fantastic opportunity to explore various facets of our Club and Rotary. During our first session, we heard directly from the project leaders and committee participants about their experiences with several of our key projects. We covered initiatives such as The Arc San Francisco Entrepreneurship, Thanksgiving Service at The Arc SF, our Club's Bike Build, Emergency Services Day, Family House, SF/Marin Food Bank, and the Homeless Prenatal Program, among others. Here are the slides.
To ensure we continue to make the most of these sessions and encourage active volunteerism, remember to keep the following in mind for future events:
We’re looking forward to more engaging discussions and insights in our next session on Club Visioning on Thursday, September 5 at 6 PM. Please register here. Stay tuned for more updates! |
EVENING MEETING HIGHLIGHTS August 22, 2024President Bob Hermann, Jr. (Information Technology: Administration | Retired) rang the Rotary bell at 6:40 PM and called to order our Club's second evening meeting at MoMo's. He welcomed everyone in the audience. Visiting Rotarians and Guests This evening's Visiting Rotarian was Janet Leiva from the Rotary Club of San Francisco Castro. Our guests were Jennifer Braschayko, Mary Gorski, Robin Katsaros, Maggie Snyder, Eduardo Solaeche, and Calie Tsui. Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA) Vice President of Youth Development Todd St Vrain (Education: Administration | University of Melbourne) gave a recap of the 2024 RYLA Camp — the largest camp in our history. The audience also watched a short video on the activities at RYLA. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS August 20, 2024: District Governor Steve WrightPresident Bob Hermann, Jr. (Information Technology: Administration | Retired) rang the Rotary bell at 12:14 PM and began today's meeting at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. He welcomed those online and those attending in person and noted that the photos featured on today's slides came from his and Dan Joraanstad's (Financial Services: Advising | Retired) garden. President Bob encouraged Club members to share their favorite photos. Thought of the Day Allan Herzog (Financial Services: Advising | Wells Fargo Advisors) read today's Thought of the Day by former President John F. Kennedy: "As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them." |
From the President's DeskReflecting on the past two months, I am proud of our Club's progress. Our July visioning sessions will shape our Club’s future. We’re eager to share the results with you on a Zoom session on September 5. Please register here to learn about our Master Plan and the next steps. It’s important!
We also achieved significant progress with our once a month evening meeting at MoMo’s. This new format has been successful. It provides an option for those unable to attend lunch meetings and attracts potential new members. It also provides partnering opportunities with other Rotary clubs. Our Club leadership supported the largest-ever Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA) in Scotts Valley, with excellent participation from our members and other Rotary clubs to lead and support this effort. In August, we provided scholarships to several young adults, who were themselves RYLA attendees and are now emerging leaders. The poignant conversations from the scholars highlighted the profound impact of these financial gifts on their lives. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS August 13, 2024: Susan Tipton, Bucking the Trend with White French Rhône Wines in LodiPresident Bob Hermann, Jr. (Information Technology: Administration | Retired) rang the Rotary bell at 12:15 PM and began today's meeting at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. He welcomed those online and those attending in person. He also shared today's agenda. Thought of the Day Lisa Stark (Communications & Media) read today's Thought of the Day by Anne Frank: "No one has ever become poor by giving. The true measure of a person's wealth is not how much they have, but how much they give." Red Badge Completed Sue Robbins (Nonprofit Administration | Catholic Charities SF) and Yana Sharma (Software Sales | IBM) completed their red badge requirements and are now full members of our Club. Congratulations to Sue and Yana! |
Rotary Meadow - Preserving this Natural HabitatIn the heart of Mt. Sutro Forest 900 feet above downtown San Francisco lies Rotary Meadow, filled with native plants and offering an idyllic destination for anyone seeking a brief respite from the noise and energy of our beautiful urban city that lies below. Rotary Meadow commemorates both the 100th anniversary of Rotary International as well as the role of our Rotary Club in the founding of the United Nations in San Francisco in 1945. On Saturday, August 10, 2024, Dan Davies led several Rotarians in a gardening and weeding project at Rotary Meadow. Much of the work involved cutting back non-native blackberry bushes and other invasive plants to make room for native plants so they can thrive in their natural habitat. |
RYLA: Making a Difference and a Lasting ImpactHistory In 1985, the Rotary Club of San Francisco started Camp Enterprise, a small leadership skills weekend camp for high school students. Jim Patrick led Camp Enterprise and was soon joined by Anita Stangl, Les Andersen, and over time, other Rotarians from our Club and our District. Since then, the program grew substantially and was renamed Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA), the name that Rotary clubs around the world are using for this type of program. 2024 RYLA Camp The 38th Annual RYLA Camp was held from July 28 to August 2, 2024 at Camp Redwood Glen & Conference Center in Scotts Valley, California. This year's Camp was the largest in our history. Over 190 campers and over 20 RYLA alumni leaders participated. In addition, there were over 30 adults consisting of Rotarians and non-Rotarians leading this Camp. The adults and youth alumni arrived on Sunday, July 28, to prepare for Camp. The campers arrived on Monday in five buses from three counties: Marin, San Francisco, and San Mateo. Here was a typical day at Camp:
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Rotary Trips on Polio Immunization and ProjectsIn January 2024, we participated at Rotary International’s Mega Polio Eradication Mission in India. The tour was for us ever changing and transformative to both the children we served and the people we met. See our story here. We now invite you to participate in the upcoming tours. These tours are available in October 2024. Additional tours are offered in January 2025. Please contact either one of us if you want more details or have questions.
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Meet the 2024-2025 Board of the San Francisco Rotary FoundationI am pleased to announce the members of the Board of Directors of the San Francisco Rotary Foundation (SFRF) who will be serving with me in 2024-2025. On the Executive Committee are Christopher Wiseman, President; Robin Azevedo, Vice President; Tom Brunner, Treasurer; and Frank Yoke, Secretary. Since Frank is also the President-Elect of our Club, he automatically becomes an Ex-Officio member of the SFRF Board along with Bob Hermann due to his role as President of our Club. The Members at Large are Emily Borland, Gary Dales, JT Forbus, Peter Logan, Mary Liu, Alisha Marfatia, Luis Moran, and Sunny Singh. The San Francisco Rotary Foundation was established in 1959. With an endowment of more than $5 million, it provided over $200,000 in grants to support Club projects for the 2024-2025 Rotary year. To learn more about SFRF, visit this page. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS August 6, 2024: Fred Lee and Meta ThinkingPresident Bob Hermann, Jr. (Information Technology: Administration | Retired) rang the Rotary bell at 12:17 PM and began today's meeting at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. He welcomed those online and those attending in person. President Bob talked about the number five in the five rings of the Olympic symbol and the five practices of exemplary leadership taught at the recent RYLA camp. He also shared today's agenda. Thought of the Day Anita Stangl (Medical Services | Alliance for Smiles) read today's Thought of the Day by Maria Shriver: "The simple gift of friendship is within all of our hands." We were all grateful that Anita had recovered from being sick and returned to join us. In Memoriam Today's audience observed a moment of silence in memory of 1993-1994 Past President Robert Wilhelm (whose passing was announced two weeks ago) and 2017-2018 Past President John Mathers (who passed away a year ago). |
EVENING MEETING HIGHLIGHTS July 25, 2024: Our Club's First Evening MeetingPresident Bob Hermann, Jr. (Information Technology: Administration | Retired) rang the Rotary bell at 6:35 PM and called to order our Club's first evening meeting at MoMo's. He welcomed everyone in the audience. Scott Morton, the owner of MoMo's, along with his staff joined to thank us for attending and to express how much they are looking forward to a partnership with our Club. Visiting Rotarians and Guests This evening's Visiting Rotarians were Elizabeth Chafcouloff and Janet Leiva, both from the Rotary Club of San Francisco Castro. Our guests were Jinan Banna, Nathan Brickley, Nona Ehyaei, Les Kimbley, Michelle Liu, Jo Patrick, and Bruce Stinson. La Carre Ivy, Elizabeth Chafcouloff, Caitlyn Eller, Yana Sharma, Margaret Miley, Dan Joraanstad, Maureen O'Shea, and Janet Leiva Ringing the Rotary Bell President Bob discussed the meaning behind the ringing of the Rotary bell. Should We Have an Evening Guest Speaker? President Bob polled the audience on the desire to have a guest speaker at our monthly Evening Meeting. The majority did not want a speaker for the Evening Meetings. |
Club Visioning: Our Club in 2027On Saturday, July 20, 2024, about 20 members of the Rotary Club of San Francisco along with guest Rotarians engaged in a four-hour Visioning Session. The objective was to envision our Club in 2027, three years from now, using the four steps of the Rotary Action Plan: Increasing our Ability to Adapt, Expanding our Reach, Enhancing Participant Engagement, and Increasing our Impact. These steps guided the brainstorming of diverse ideas aimed at shaping Club goals for the next three years. Led by Past District Governors Jeri Fujimoto and Ron Gin, the participants focused on reaching out to the community, ensuring inclusivity, enhancing diversity, and creating impactful projects involving as many members as possible.
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June 2024 Board HighlightsRotary Club of San Francisco
The Rotary Club of San Francisco Board of Directors met on June 25, 2024 via Zoom. President Sunny Singh called the meeting to order at 4:01 p.m. Emily Borland recorded the minutes due to the absence of Secretary Nancy Graydon. In attendance were Emily Borland, Maureen O'Shea, Scott Plakun, President Sunny Singh, Christopher Wiseman, Ozan Yasavur, Dan Davies, President-Elect Bob Hermann, Todd St Vrain, Bill Poppen, and Frank Yoke, constituting a quorum. Absent were Alex Omoko, Nancy Graydon, and Margaret Miley. Today’s guests were Dan Joraanstad, Caitlyn Eller, and Yana Sharma. Minutes The Board reviewed and approved the May 28, 2024 minutes. Treasurer’s Report Treasurer Bill Poppen presented the financials as of May 31, 2024. The Board unanimously approved the May 2024 financials. |
Membership News: July 2024The Board of the Rotary Club of San Francisco has approved the following candidates for individual membership into our Club: David Folk (Banking: Management | JPMorganChase) Milo Hanke (Financial Services: Advising | Hanke & Co. Wealth Management, LLC) Kayla Trunecek (Staff Development | FTI Delta). Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about these proposed additions to our membership. The Membership Committee announces the following departure: Margarita Baxter-Lazaro has moved to Spain and left our Club. We wish her success and happiness in her new home.
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Remembering Past President Robert WilhelmIt is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert B. "Bob" Wilhelm on July 17, 2024 at the age of 97. He joined Rotary in Butte, California on January 1, 1959. When work took him to San Francisco in 1975, Bob became a member of the Rotary Club of San Francisco from March 30, 1976 to July 1, 2012 and served as our Club's President from 1993 to 1994. After moving to San Rafael, Past President Bob continued to be active in Rotary until 2019. Bob was the former managing director of the St. Francis Hotel. He joked that he started his job at the St. Francis “with a bang.” His very first day, escorting then-President Gerald Ford back to his motorcade, Bob heard a loud “pop” from a crowd of onlookers. The secret service quickly spirited Ford into a car and sped off, and Bob quickly realized that they had both survived an assassination attempt. More information on Bob's life and his Celebration of Life will be posted here when available. Sharing Some Memories of Robert Here are memories from some of our Club's leaders who had worked with and known Past President Bob: |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS July 16, 2024: John Rothmann and the 2024 Republican National ConventionPresident Bob Hermann, Jr. (Information Technology: Administration | Retired) rang the Rotary bell and began today's meeting at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. He welcomed those online and those attending in person and shared today's agenda. Thought of the Day Maureen O'Shea (Governmental Relations | Retired) read today's Thought of the Day by Robert Alan Aurthur: "Cultural differences should not separate us from each other, but rather cultural diversity brings a collective strength that can benefit all of humanity." Club History President Bob went over the Rotary Four-Way Test. Then, he talked about Charter Member and Past President Henry J. "Bru" Brunnier and invited nominations for Bru Brunnier Fellows. |
Rotary Club of San Francisco: A Warm Welcome to New and Prospective MembersThe Rotary Club of San Francisco recently hosted an inspiring Welcome to the Club party on the third floor of the McRoskey Mattress Company, overlooking Market Street. Thanks to Robin Azevedo for supplying the abundant space. The large plate glass windows provided a kinetic view and soundscape of Market Street, with late afternoon sunlight streaming through the windows, casting a warm and inviting glow over the gathering. The event began with an extended social period, allowing attendees to mingle, exchange ideas, and enjoy beverages and delicious bites. This relaxed atmosphere set the tone for an engaging evening where new connections were made, and fresh ideas were shared. The evening was organized by Vice President of Membership Margaret Miley. The program commenced with Dan Joraanstad from the Membership Committee welcoming the crowd and introducing President Bob Hermann. President Bob shared his vision for the upcoming year, emphasizing the importance of service, friendship, and community engagement. Dan returned to introduce the program. The attendees formed small groups to brainstorm potential projects and social events for August, leading to a lively discussion. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS July 9, 2024: President Bob HermannDistrict Governor Steve Wright opened today's meeting at 12:15 PM by inducting Bob Hermann, Jr. (Information Technology: Administration | Retired) as President of the Rotary Club of San Francisco. President Bob then introduced the 2024-2025 Board of Directors. DG Steve administered the oath and welcomed the new Board. Lynn Luckow watching the induction of President Bob Hermann by DG Steve Wright. |
TransformationTransformation profoundly shapes individuals and communities. Our personal journeys extend outward to others, touching lives unexpectedly. For example, the young boy who exclaimed when he saw the fresh water coming out of the pump, “It’s Magic!” created great change. His vision had a remarkable impact on our International President Stephanie Urchick, causing her and the entire world of Rotary to be aware of the magic that Rotary brings in building peace and harmony. Here are some important examples of change that I’ve experienced with our Club, and perhaps you have as well:
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A Message from the EditorHappy New Rotary Year! This issue of Grindings is the first one for the new Rotary year of 2024-2025. I am writing to invite you to submit stories for publication in Grindings. We are especially interested in stories on recent Rotary events that you have attended. The deadline is every Thursday at 5 PM, and this will be a hard deadline so that I can get the issue of Grindings done in time for release on Sunday. If you miss the Thursday deadline, your story will appear in the following Sunday's issue or a future issue. Photos are welcome too, but photos alone without a story may not be published. I need a written explanation as well as identification of those in the photos. I am also following our Club's policy on photos: "By attending events of the Rotary Club of San Francisco, you are giving to our Club your permission to publish photos of you as an attendee at our events. If you have questions about this policy, please contact our Club." All stories and photos must be sent to me via email only. If you have any questions, please contact me. I continue to enjoy serving as your Editor. |
President's MessageI am thrilled and honored to address you as the newly elected President of our esteemed Rotary Club for the upcoming year. It is with immense pride that I step into this role, knowing the rich history and legacy we carry as the second oldest Rotary Club in the world. This legacy is not just a testament to our staying power but also to the remarkable dedication and impact of each member in our community. As we embark on this journey together, I am excited to share that we have a great year of projects ahead of us. Our portfolio of Club projects is backed by almost a quarter of a million dollars. The funds are sourced from our own San Francisco Rotary Foundation and District Designated Funds (DDF). These funds reflect the incredible generosity and commitment of our Club members. Such generosity is a testament to our collective desire to make a positive difference in the world through our various projects and initiatives. My presidential theme for this Rotary year, Tradition, Teaching, and Transformation, encompasses our commitment to upholding our cherished traditions, imparting knowledge, and fostering meaningful change in our community and beyond. |
Membership News: June 2024The Board of the Rotary Club of San Francisco has approved the following candidates for individual membership into our Club: Tamour Khan (Website Design | Intel Corporation) Margaret "Peggy" Mathers (Network Optimization | Retired). The Board of the Rotary Club of San Francisco has also approved the following candidate for corporate membership into our Club: Daniel DeSanto (Nonprofit Administration | Rotaplast International) as a member of the proposed corporate member - Rotaplast International. Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about these proposed additions to our membership. |
Heidi Kühn Nominated for Nobel Peace PrizeCongratulations to Heidi Thomas Kühn who has been nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize by the International Eurasia Press Fund, an independent and international, non-governmental organization based in Baku, Azerbaijan. Heidi is being recognized as the Founder of Roots of Peace and honored for her efforts to turn MINES TO VINES — replacing landmines with vineyards and orchards worldwide. Planting over seven million trees on former minefields, she has impacted the lives of millions of farmers and families living in war-torn lands worldwide. Heidi along with her sons, Tucker and Christian, and Roots of Peace are corporate members of our Club. Heidi's grandfather, William Thomas, was president of our Club from 1941-1942. In 1997, Heidi made a toast in her living room that the world might go from “Mines to Vines,” launching Roots of Peace The winners of Nobel Peace Prizes will be announced in October. We are rooting for Heidi!
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President's MessageHello Rotary Family! Wow! What a year it has been! As my time as President winds down, I just want to take a moment to express how truly grateful I am for each and every one of you. This journey has been unforgettable, and it's all thanks to you. Looking back, I'm not just proud of what we've accomplished together; I'm moved by the laughter, the teamwork, and the genuine connections we've built. It wasn't just about the projects and the meetings — it was the chats, the high-fives, and the shared moments of joy that really made this year special. Your passion and commitment have been the real driving forces behind our successes. And while I’m excited to see where our next president takes us, I'm going to cherish the memories we've made this year forever. |
May 2024 Board HighlightsRotary Service, Inc. President Sunny Singh called the meeting to order at 4:07 p.m. on May 28, 2024. Nancy Graydon, Secretary, recorded the minutes. In attendance were Emily Borland, Nancy Graydon, Mary Liu, Margaret Miley, Maureen O'Shea, Scott Plakun, President Sunny Singh, Christopher Wiseman, Ozan Yasavur, and Frank Yoke, constituting a quorum. Absent were Dan Davies, President-Elect Bob Hermann, Alex Omoko, Bill Poppen, and Todd St Vrain. Today’s guest was Dora Dye. Minutes The Trustees reviewed and approved the April 23, 2024 minutes. Treasurer's Report The Trustees reviewed and approved the April 2024 Treasurer's report. The following grants were approved by the Trustees unanimously for a total of $235,914.00: |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS June 18, 2024: Celebration and Thank You to President Sunny SinghPresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) rang the Rotary bell and called his final meeting to order at 12:16 PM. He welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Peninsula Ballroom in the Hotel Nikko. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were Eric Bosh of the Rotary Club of Mexia, Texas; Past District Governor Gary Chow from the Rotary Club of South San Francisco; Joel Valdes from the Rotary Club of Manila, and Mary Kay Kennedy from the Rotary Club of Menlo Park who is the wife of Jim Kennedy (Interior Design | James Kennedy Design). President Sunny introduced his guests - Raymond Walia and Diana Mendoza Neri, and Maureen O’Shea (Governmental Relations | Retired) introduced her guest - Eddie Espinoza. Attending online was Anne Marie Forbus who is the wife of JT Forbus (Accounting | Bogdan & Frasco). |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS June 11, 2024: David Smith and The Next 50 Years - Golden Gate National Recreation AreaPresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) rang the Rotary bell and called today's meeting to order at 12:16 PM. He welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were Past District Governor Jayne Hulbert from the Rotary Club of Ignacio, Gene Duffy from the Rotary Club of Ignacio, Past District Governor Gary Chow from the Rotary Club of South San Francisco, Past District Governor Mary Bates from the Rotary Club of Foster City, Past District Governor Ron Gin from the Rotary Club of San Francisco Chinatown, Liz Mark from the Rotary Club of San Francisco Chinatown, and Tabitha Sparks from Rotary International. Our guest was Tamour Khan, and today's speaker was David Smith. |
2024 Club Excellence AwardsCongratulations to President Sunny Singh and his Board of Directors for earning the following Club Excellence awards from Rotary District 5150 in 2024: Club Service, Community Service, International Service, Vocational Service, Youth Service, Membership, and Public Image. District Governor Laine Hendricks presented the above awards to President Sunny at the District Conference on May 18, 2024. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS June 4, 2024: D'Arcy DrollingerAfter a lively cocktail hour hosted by an anonymous and generous donor, President Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) rang the Rotary bell and called today's meeting to order at 12:15 PM. He welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Peninsula Ballroom in the Hotel Nikko. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were Piper Tseng from the Rotary Club of Beijing, PDG Chris Gallagher (formerly with our Rotary District 5150) and now from the West Bay Rotary Club of Camden in Maine, John Paul from the 49er Rotary Breakfast Club of Nevada City, and Carol Cox from the 49er Rotary Breakfast Club of Nevada City. President Sunny introduced his guest - Tamour Khan. Maureen O’Shea (Governmental Relations | Retired) introduced her guests - Dan Riley, Mark Farrell, and Rae Sansa. Lisa Stark (Communications & Media) introduced her guest - Karen Stark. Larry Booth (Engineering: Mechanical | Frank M. Booth, Inc.) introduced his guests - Matthew Martin and Michael Phillis. Other guests were Robert Hunter, Jerry Brown, Hayley Browning, and Luis Zamora. Our guest attending online was Eric Sleigh. Our special guest was San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu. Today's speaker was D'Arcy Drollinger. D'Arcy's guests were Matt Pagel and Corey Revilla. |
A Recap of the 2024 Multi-District ConferenceOur Annual District Conference this year was a Multi-District Conference consisting of Districts 5150, 5180, and 5190. The theme was "Better Together", and it was better together! The Conference kicked off on late Friday, May 17, 2024 with registration. Dora Dye was the registrar for District 5150 and had the pleasure of working with the registrars from the other two Districts. The three of us had spent almost a year together to produce all of the pieces to make registration seamless. Registration: Dora Dye (District 5150), Rob Saxe (District 5180) and Tracy Kochenderfer (District 5190) |
April 2024 Board HighlightsRotary Club of San Francisco The Rotary Club of San Francisco Board of Directors met on April 23, 2024 via Zoom. President Sunny Singh called the meeting to order at 4:03 p.m. Nancy Graydon, Secretary, recorded the minutes. In attendance were Emily Borland, Dan Davies, Nancy Graydon, President-Elect Bob Hermann, Scott Plakun, President Sunny Singh, Todd St Vrain, Christopher Wiseman, Ozan Yasavur, and Frank Yoke, constituting a quorum. Absent were Margaret Miley, Maureen O’Shea, Alex Omoko, and Bill Poppen. Today’s guest was Mary Liu. Minutes The Board reviewed and approved the March 25, 2024 minutes. |
Membership News: May 2024The Board of the Rotary Club of San Francisco has approved the following candidates for membership into our Club: Caitlyn Eller (Public Sector Consulting | Booz Allen Hamilton) Sunayana Sharma (Software Sales | IBM) Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about these proposed additions to our membership. |
A Memorial Day TributeClub Member Heidi Thomas Kühn paid tribute to Memorial Day which fell on Monday, May 27 this year: "In tribute to Memorial Day, we honor American veterans who died while serving in the U.S. military armed forces — a tradition which began in 1868 — as many American soldiers have tragically lost life and limb to landmines. Yet, few realize the world’s first widespread deployment of landmines took place during the Civil War (1860-1865). According to Dr. Ken Rutherford, landmine survivor who wrote the Forward to my book Breaking Ground, landmines were first used during the start of the war, when the disparity in manpower, material, and weaponry between the North and South was significant. The gap widened in the Union’s favor as the war progressed, forcing the Confederate war industry to innovate and improvise. As the conflict progressed, landmine warfare advanced commensurably, and both tactics and technology evolved to include innovative types of design and deployment. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS May 21, 2024: Kim Turner and Title IX in SportsPresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) rang the Rotary bell, called today's meeting to order at 12:15 PM, and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. He shared today's agenda and advised participants on in-person and Zoom best practices. Visiting Rotarians and Guests
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2025 District 5150 Conference - Register Now and Save!We just finished the 2024 District 5150 Conference in Reno from May 17-19, 2024. A full story on the Conference will appear in the June 2, 2024 issue of Grindings. Registration for the 2025 District Conference to be held in Santa Rosa has begun. Click here to read all that the Conference will offer. Register now to pay the Early Bird Rate that runs until Deccmber 14, 2024. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS May 14, 2024: Jerusalem PeacebuildersPresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) rang the Rotary bell, called today's meeting to order at 12:15 PM, and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. Meeting Volunteers President Sunny thanked today's meeting volunteers: Scott Plakun (Management Consulting | The Plakun Group) for serving as scribe; Jim Patrick (Retail: Office Supplies | Patrick & Co.) for serving as photographer; Allan Herzog (Financial Services: Advising | Wells Fargo Advisors) for managing the microphone; Kirt Burdick of the Academy of Art University for managing the audio-visual equipment during our in-person meeting; Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) for serving as Zoom Host; Emily Borland (Engineering, Architecture, and Construction | Emily Borland Specifications), Tim Hornbecker (Nonprofit Management | Retired, The Arc CA) and Clifford Phillips (The Arc San Francisco) for serving as greeters; and Assistant Governor David Dye (Management Consulting | Retired) for doing check-in at the Hotel Nikko. |
Helping Families and Seniors in Two Bay Area CountiesOn May 11th, I joined other members and friends of our Rotary Club at the San Francisco-Marin Food Bank to assemble dry goods for families and seniors across two Bay Area counties. The Food Bank divided our group into subgroups to work on the assembly line. Our tasks included assembling boxes; restocking dry food cans and grains for the front assembly team; packing food; moving boxes; and organizing pallets. We not only worked hard, but also enjoyed the company of each other. After two hours, we counted 954 boxes packaged, that will be sent to the homes of families and seniors in San Francisco and Marin counties. We look forward to our continued partnership with the San Francisco-Marin Food Bank and hope to see you all in the fall when we will do this again! |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS May 7, 2024: Bill Lieberman: Why We Drive on the Right and Others Don'tPresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) rang the Rotary bell, called today's meeting to order at 12:15 PM, and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. President Sunny acknowledged our hipster greeters for today — Tim Hornbecker (Nonprofit Management | Retired, The Arc CA) and Clifford Phillips (The Arc San Francisco), both sporting bow ties and snappy caps as finishing sartorial touches. Happy Birthday The audience delivered a rousing, slightly off key Happy Birthday song to Immediate Past President Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation). |
Renewal of Hotel Nikko ContractThe Rotary Club of San Francisco is thrilled to announce the renewal of its partnership with the Hotel Nikko for another three years. This renewal brings exciting enhancements, ensuring seamless event coordination with no changes to costs for storage of AV equipment and Rotary supplies as well as room rental. The innovative menu remains unchanged. Despite slight cost increases for meals, we won't pass the additional costs on to our members, thanks to subsidies and forthcoming sponsorships. Some key updates include:
The Hotel has graciously allowed our Club to consider the installation of a San Francisco Rotary Club Medallion on the Hotel building. In doing so, this will enhance brand visibility. We extend our gratitude to Hotel Nikko and look forward to continued collaboration in service to our community. |
Discovering the Traditions of PassoverOn April 28, 2024, members of our Club gathered at the home of Betty Newman (a friend of the Club) to celebrate Passover with a Seder, the special dinner in which family and friends gather to retell the story of Exodus: how the Jews fled from slavery in Egypt. Betty described the cleaning that she had done to prepare her house for the Passover holiday. She also talked about the separate set of dishes used only during Passover. At the table was a Seder plate with items that symbolize different aspects of Passover:
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Touring the Phoenix Kingdoms ExhibitMembers from our Club and friends eagerly gathered at the entrance of the Asian Art Museum. Our anticipation was palpable as we awaited our journey through the Phoenix Kingdoms exhibit. Led by knowledgeable docent Peggy Mathers, we embarked on a voyage through time to explore the artistic and spiritual wonders of the multistate Zhou dynasty. Peggy shared her contagious enthusiasm during this exhibit and painted vivid pictures of ancient rituals and cultural traditions as we wandered through the exhibit adorned with artifacts from over 2,000 years ago. Each artifact seemed to tell a story of emperors or warriors and the intricate tapestry of life in the Zhou dynasty. Throughout the tour, we marveled at the delicate craftsmanship of bronze vessels and the serene beauty of jade carvings, and couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and reverence for the ancient civilization that once flourished in the Phoenix Kingdoms. These artifacts were preserved by the encasement of wood, sans oxygen, which allowed these treasures to emerge unscathed. One such example was the preserved lacquered box adorned with luscious, vibrant colors and painted with people on its exterior - the only such artifact in this exhibit that was found with people on it. |
District 5150's Day of Service: Protecting the EnvironmentIn a remarkable display of community spirit and environmental stewardship, multiple Rotary Clubs in San Francisco, in collaboration with Sutro Stewards' Trail Builders, spearheaded a transformative day of service on April 20 at Rotary Meadow atop Sutro Forest. Stephanie Schmautz led the event as she has done in the past three years. Fifty dedicated individuals rolled up their sleeves to weed, build trails, and enhance the park for future visitors. The idea for Rotary Meadow traces back to Harold Hoogasian, Past President of the Rotary Club San Francisco (2001-2002), who envisioned a space where Rotary's mission of fostering peace through good work could tangibly take root. And he built on a site that was commandeered by the US Military. |
Embarking on a Journey Through Time: Rotary Club of San Francisco's Clean-up InitiativeDear Members, I am delighted to share some exciting news regarding our recent efforts at the Rotary Club of San Francisco. We have undertaken a significant task: sorting through decades of historical documents, financial records, and cherished mementos. This endeavor is more than just tidying up; it's an exploration of our Club's fascinating journey since its establishment in 1908. Our discussions have been thorough and thoughtful, involving input from esteemed past presidents JT Forbus, Mary Liu, and Christopher Wiseman, as well as our current President Sunny Singh, President-Elect Bob Hermann, and President-Elect Nominee Frank Yoke. Together, we've carefully considered what to preserve and what to part with as we move forward. Bob Hermann, Dora Dye, David Dye, Dan Joraanstad, Frank Yoke, and Ozan Yasavur |
March 2024 Board HighlightsRotary Club of San Francisco The Rotary Club of San Francisco Board of Directors met on March 25, 2024 via Zoom. President Sunny Singh called the meeting to order at 4:02 p.m. Nancy Graydon, Secretary, recorded the minutes. In attendance were Nancy Graydon, President-Elect Bob Hermann, Margaret Miley, President Sunny Singh, Todd St Vrain, Christopher Wiseman, Ozan Yasavur, Emily Borland, Dan Davies, Maureen O'Shea, Scott Plakun, and Frank Yoke, constituting a quorum. Absent were Bill Poppen and Alex Omoko. Today's guest was Mary Liu. Minutes The Board reviewed and approved the February 27, 2024 minutes. |
Membership News: April 2024The Board of the Rotary Club of San Francisco has approved the following candidate for membership into our Club: Adedeji Ogunyemi (Biotechnology: Molecular Biology | Nautilus Biotechnology) Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about this proposed addition to our membership. |
2024 Bike Build Brings the Community TogetherOur 14th Annual Bike Build was held last Saturday, April 13, 2024 at the TogetherSF warehouse on Mariposa Street in the Mission District. We had around 80 volunteers at the event, including over 20 Rotarians from the Rotary Club of San Francisco and other Rotary clubs. This year's event truly was a collaborative effort as we also had many volunteers from the YMCA, MWH/Webcor, and Gay4Good organizations. Our volunteers arrived early Saturday morning to build nearly 150 bikes in just over three hours. We also had experts from YBike and the San Francisco Bike Coalition ensure that each bike was properly inspected and tested. Our partner, the Bayview Hunter's Point YMCA, helped to register over a hundred children in the Bayview area to receive a new bicycle. |
Invitation to Kentucky Derby DayCatholic Charities would like to invite members of the Rotary Club of San Francisco to attend the upcoming Kentucky Derby Day event. The first 30 Rotarians to sign up will get in for FREE. Derby Day will take place at St. Vincent's School for Boys in San Rafael on Saturday, May 4 from 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM and will include a live viewing of the 2024 Kentucky Derby. The festivities will include giveaways, food and drinks, live music, lawn games for the whole family, a parade of hats contest, and more! Proceeds from the event will benefit the Catholic Charities Kent Eagleson Equestrian Center at St. Vincent's School for Boys. Important: Please contact Sue Robbins for the promotional code to be used at checkout for a free ticket. Apply that code here |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS April 16, 2024: Dr. George Jacob - Rethinking Tourism: Destination San FranciscoPresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) called today's meeting to order at 12:15 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were Jacqueline Cormier from the Rotary Club of Novato, Joel Valdes from the Rotary Club of Manila, and George Harper from the Rotary Club of Jamestown. Our guests were Gregory Dreicer, Emlyn Koster, Dawn Hayes, and Adedeji Ogunyemi. Our speaker was Dr. George Jacob. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS April 9, 2024: Bailey Farren and Starting a BusinessPresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) called today's meeting to order at 12:15 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. Today's Guests Today's guests attending in person were Aaron Feldner, Cameron Remington, David Folk, Christian Mackey, and Tamicia Wakefield. Our guests attending via Zoom were Lisa Schwie, Maggie Chen, and Patricia Monczewski. Our speaker was Bailey Farren. Paul Harris Fellow Award Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) presented Patricia Monczewski with a Paul Harris Fellow award in recognition of her generous donation a year ago of premium wines valued at approximately $27,000. Our Club has raised over $10,000 from wine auctions. Patricia expressed her appreciation for this award. |
Welcoming New and Prospective MembersThe Rotary Club of San Francisco hosted about 30 people at the Welcome to the Club reception for new and prospective members on April 3, 2024. The event was put together by Vice President of Membership Margaret Miley and held at the home of Dan Joraanstad and Bob Hermann. Several of our recent new members and a large number of new people exploring membership participated in the evening. After about 45 minutes of beverages and bites, the program for the evening unfolded with Dan Joraanstad serving as emcee, introducing President Sunny Singh for remarks and then three Club leaders: Alisha Marfatia, Frank Yoke, and Bob Hermann. Each of them led about 10 people to talk over the following topics: |
Interact College Insight EventThe Interact Club at Lowell High School sponsored the fourth annual College Insight event on Saturday, March 23 at the War Memorial for Interact students and their parents from Rotary District 5150. The event aimed to help students and their families understand the college admission process and financing a college degree. The program consisted of three parts: Picking the Right College, led by a college counselor from Lowell who encouraged students to look beyond highly popular schools such as the Ivy League and UCs; Insights from a Former College Admissions Officer, with a staff member from Collegewise consulting who offered tips and insights into college applications; and Financing College, led by two financial planners who provided tips for applying for financial aid and resources for scholarships. |
RYLA Staff Facilitator and Student Camper Applications Still OpenRotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA) camp staff facilitator applications are open until April 20. See https://ryla.camp/facilitators for information and application. Student camper applications are open until May 15. See https://ryla.camp/students-1 for information and application. Contact Todd St Vrain, Vice President of Youth Services, with any questions. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS April 2, 2024: Randall Scott - Community Business Districts and Public Video SurveillancePresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) called today's meeting to order at 12:15 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were Elie Abijaouda from the Rotary Club of San Jose and Randall Scott from the Rotary Club of Fisherman's Wharf. Randall was also today's speaker. Our guest today was Mayra Rivas from the Aquarium of the Bay Ecotarium. Rotary Flag Exchange President-Elect Nominee Frank Yoke (Development | Frank Yoke Consulting) attended a meeting of the Rotary Club of Niles (Fremont) and exchanged our Club's Rotary flag for theirs. Completion of Red Badge La Carre Ivy (Retired) and Paul Vazquez (Nonprofit Administration | Alliance for Smiles) completed their red badge requirements and are now full members of our Club. La Carre has joined our Membership Committee while Paul is active in our Community Services Committee. Congratulations to La Carre and Paul! |
February 2024 Board HighlightsRotary Club of San Francisco The Rotary Club of San Francisco Board of Directors met on February 27, 2024 via Zoom. President Sunny Singh called the meeting to order at 4:02 p.m. Nancy Graydon, Secretary, recorded the minutes. In attendance were Nancy Graydon, President-Elect Bob Hermann, Margaret Miley, Alex Omoko, President Sunny Singh, Todd St Vrain, Christopher Wiseman, Ozan Yasavur, Emily Borland, Maureen O'Shea, and Frank Yoke, constituting a quorum. Absent were Dan Davies, Scott Plakun, and Bill Poppen. Today's guest was Mary Liu. Minutes The Board reviewed and approved the January 23, 2024 minutes. |
2024 District Assembly and Project FairThe Rotary Club of San Francisco had strong representation at last weekend's District Assembly. First, we celebrated incoming Club President Bob Hermann and cheered with bells and horns as he walked through the Presentation of 2024-2025 Club Presidents. front row: PDG Peter Lagarias, JT Forbus, Todd St Vrain, Dan Joraanstad, Dora Dye, and President-Elect Bob Hermann second row: Jessica Hansen, Stephanie Schmautz, Frank Yoke, Nancy Graydon, President Sunny Singh, Scott Plakun, Merve Yasavur, Mary Liu, Margaret Miley, and Anita Stangl back row: PDG Eric Schmautz, Molly Schmautz, Christopher Wiseman, La Carre Ivy, David Dye, and Ozan Yasavur not pictured: Wendy Shew and DG Laine Hendricks |
A Journey Through Aquarium by the Bay - Ecotarium SF: Empowering the Blind with 3D PlatesAs the morning sun gently embraced the skyline of San Francisco, our team of volunteers from the Rotary Clubs of San Francisco and Fisherman’s Wharf, along with delegates from Catholic Charities, eagerly embarked on a journey to the Aquarium of the Bay Ecotarium. The Bay Ecotarium is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to enable conversations on climate resilience and ocean conservation globally, while inspiring actionable change locally by protection and preservation of the San Francisco Bay and its ecosystems. We were greeted by Melissa, Bay Ecotarium Animal Care Manager who has worked there for the past 18 years. Melissa provided the 13 Rotarians (8 from our Club and 5 from the Fisherman’s Wharf Club) a complete tour of the facility from jelly fish to sharks and sturgeon to the playfulness of river otters. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS March 19, 2024: Gregory Yap and Visiting SingaporePresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) began today's meeting by talking about that terrific Warriors' game where our own Tim Hornbecker (Nonprofit Management | Retired, The Arc CA) was seen wearing a fancy Warriors' outfit. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were Jan Van de Kuinder from the Rotary Club of Nukerle, Netherlands and Emilio Gallego from the Rotary Club of Tokyo West, Japan. Today's speaker was Gregory Yap from the Singapore Tourism Board. Reminders Grant Deadline: President-Elect Bob Hermann (Information Technology: Administration | Retired UCSF) reminded us that the deadline for 2024-2025 grant requests is this Friday, March 22. See details here. Membership Survey: The survey has closed. Results will be shared soon. As promised, if over 50% of the Club completed this survey, there would be a drawing for a gift card. We did get over 50% of the Club to respond, and the winner of the gift card was Margaret Miley (Hospitality: Hotels | Retired). |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS March 12, 2024: Jennifer Bernstein and Guide Dogs for the BlindPresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) called today's meeting to order at 12:15 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. Today's Guests Today's speaker was Jennifer Bernstein from Guide Dogs for the Blind. Emily Borland (Engineering, Architecture, and Construction | Emily Borland Specifications) introduced Christian Hawthorne. March Birthdays The Club sang Happy Birthday to Members celebrating a birthday in March. See the birthday list here. |
Rotary Meadow - A Hidden GemIn the heart of bustling San Francisco lies a hidden gem where tranquility meets community, and nature’s canvas flourishes under the care of dedicated volunteers. Yes, we are talking about Rotary Meadow in Sutro Forest right behind UCSF Medical Center on Parnassus. Recently added trails provide easy access to Rotary Meadow where walkers, hikers, and bicyclists can enjoy the quiet but beautiful areas. These areas are maintained by volunteers including our Rotary Club of San Francisco who participated. Rotary Meadow, as we learned from Ildiko Polony, Executive Director of Sutro Stewards, tells us the importance of removing invasive species of plants and preserving biodiversity in our urban landscape. This work is so important as we face evolving challenges with climate change in our world. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS March 5, 2024: Shellena Eskeridge and the Homeless Prenatal ProgramPresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) called today's meeting to order at 12:15 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. We welcomed President Sunny back from his European trip, and he expressed his joy for being back. President Sunny thanked President-Elect Bob Hermann (Information Technology: Administration | Retired UCSF) and President-Elect Nominee Frank Yoke (Development | Frank Yoke Consulting) for leading the February Club Meetings while he was traveling. Today's Visiting Rotarian and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarian was Joe Houston from Surigao in the Philippines. Today's speaker was Shellena Eskeridge from the Homeless Prenatal Program. Joining Shellena were Kristin Hatch and Arpana Vidyarthi. We also welcomed Iris Fluellen from the San Francisco-Marin Food Bank. Wendy Shew (Nonprofit Administration | Building Education) introduced her guest - Lauren Neumann. Rounding out today's guest list was LaCarre Ivy. |
Remembering Kay ClarkeIt is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Kay Clarke. Kay joined Rotary on July 1, 1987 and was a member of our Club from August 1, 1988 to November 1, 2018. Looking back at history, this means that Kay joined Rotary when women were first allowed. Kay was very active, highly respected, and a much beloved member. She was the first to receive the prestigious Service Above Self award. See here for more information on Kay Clarke Lechner and her memorial. Sharing Some Memories of Kay Here are memories from some of our Club's leaders who had worked with and known Kay: |
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS: Answer the Membership SurveyPresident-Elect Bob Hermann recently sent out a membership survey. Your opinion matters, and this is your chance to make your voice heard. We want to know what you think about how things are going in our Club. One of the main questions in the survey is about adding an evening meeting to our schedule. Make no mistake: our schedule will still include two lunch meetings, but would also allow for an evening meeting. The survey is brief and can be found by clicking here. If we can achieve a 50% response rate for the survey, there will be a drawing for an Amazon gift card. You may be the winner! Together, we can make our Club even better and more accessible to everyone. |
January 2024 Board HighlightsRotary Club of San Francisco The Rotary Club of San Francisco Board of Directors met on January 23, 2024 at the Hotel Nikko. President Sunny Singh called the meeting to order at 10:23 a.m. Christopher Wiseman, Immediate Past President, recorded the minutes until Nancy Graydon, Secretary arrived. In attendance were Nancy Graydon, Bob Hermann, Margaret Miley, Alex Omoko, Scott Plakun, President Sunny Singh, Todd St Vrain, Christopher Wiseman, Ozan Yasavur, Emily Borland, Maureen O'Shea, and Frank Yoke, constituting a quorum. Absent were Dan Davies and Bill Poppen. Nancy, Alex, and Frank arrived late and did not participate in any of the votes held at this meeting. Today's guests were District 5150 Governor Laine Hendricks and Assistant Governor David Dye. |
A Night of Festivity: Rotary Club of San Francisco's Lunar New Year Celebration of the Year of the DragonOn Tuesday, February 20, 2024, the Rotary Club of San Francisco proudly hosted a vibrant Lunar New Year event at the Hong Kong Lounge, embracing the spirit of renewal, prosperity, and unity that this auspicious occasion represents. Amidst colorful decorations and the aroma of traditional delicacies, our members and guests were treated to an enchanting lion dance performance and a mesmerizing guzheng musical instrument. The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the energetic lion dance performance by the San Francisco Jing Mo Athletic Association lion dance troupe, which captivated the audience with their graceful movements, synchronized choreography, and vibrant costumes. The lion, symbolizing good luck and fortune, danced its way through the venue, spreading joy and auspicious blessings to all present. Their lively performance set the tone for a festive atmosphere filled with excitement and anticipation. |
Stuffing Diaper Bags and Making a DifferenceEight volunteers met at the Homeless Prenatal Program (HPP) on the evening of Tuesday, February 27, to stuff 50 bags with baby supplies and personal goods. The bags will be distributed to families in the Program at two baby showers on Wednesday, March 6th. The volunteers were: Margarita Baxter-Lazaro, Jim Patrick, Jo Patrick, Jane Mermelstein, LaCarre Ivy, Chris Davies, Rhonda Poppen, and Sue Adkerson. The volunteers worked alongside HPP staff member Sharon Bechtol. |
Membership News: February 2024The following are scheduled to be inducted into our Club: LaCarre Ivy (Retired) Hyunjin (Stellie) Kim (Psychology | City and County of San Francisco) Matthew Ramirez (Information Technology: Consultant | GovGPT) Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about these proposed additions to our membership. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS February 13, 2024: Cycling and Walking in San Francisco – Then and Now, and where are we headed?President-Elect Bob Hermann (Information Technology: Administration | Retired UCSF) called today's meeting to order at 12:15 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. Today's Guests We welcomed today's guests: Milo Hanke, LaCarre Ivy, Niko Kowell, and Eric Suba. Kimberly Leung and Mike Sallaberry were today's speakers. |
A Warm Welcome to the ClubOn January 30, 2024, the Membership Committee hosted the First Quarter’s “Welcome to the Club Party.” Margaret Miley, Vice President of Membership, orchestrated a successful event with about 35 attendees, including new members since July 2023 and 10 prospective members exploring our Club's values and opportunities and meeting some of the Club’s leadership. The evening featured light appetizers and wine, fostering networking and connections in the charming office of Lynn Luckow. A small group exercise added a creative touch, encouraging participants to discuss past and desired projects. The ideas generated were both innovative and stimulating. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS February 6, 2024: John Rothmann and Politics in 2024President-Elect Nominee Frank Yoke (Development | Frank Yoke Consulting) called today's meeting to order and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. District 5150 Rotarian of the Month Congratulations to Dora Dye (Education | San Francisco and San Mateo Counties) for her recognition as the Rotary District 5150 Rotarian of the Month in January 2024. She was recognized today in our Club as there were limited meetings in January. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were PDG Leif Carlzon from the Rotary Club of Ludvika RC in Sweden, Frank Schulenberg from the Rotary Club of Chico, Lisa De Zordo from the Rotary Club of San Francisco Castro, and our own Past President Casey Blair, now a member of the Rotary Club of Boise. Other guests were Milo Hanke, Brittany Olson, and Pradeep Karumanchi. John Rothmann joined us today as our speaker. |
RYLA Student and Facilitator ApplicationsApplications are open both for student campers and new facilitators to be a part of the RYLA youth leadership camp. RYLA will be held from July 29 to August 2 at Redwood Glen Camp & Conference Center in Scotts Valley. RYLA is free and open to all current freshmen, sophomores, and juniors living or studying in San Francisco, San Mateo, and Marin counties. Students who are outside of our District, but who are relatives of our Club members may also participate in District 5150's RYLA. Student applications are open until April 15. Facilitators work in pairs to guide a small group of campers through their RYLA experience. Facilitators undergo training and are part of a team of 40 volunteer staff. Facilitators must be on hand at the camp from Sunday, July 28 through Friday, August 2. You're welcome to encourage any friends, family, and colleagues to be a facilitator as well. Facilitator applications are due by March 1st. Please visit www.ryla.camp to learn more. Watch the RYLA videos and access the student and facilitator applications. Contact Todd St Vrain, Vice President of Youth Services, with any questions. |
New Insights into Turkish CultureThe Rotary Club of San Francisco recently hosted another event in a string of successful Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion activities. On January 21, we celebrated Turkish culture through the film My Grandfather's People by Çağan Irmak. The movie, exploring themes of family and migration, was followed by a vibrant discussion. The film’s premise focused on what happened when suddenly everybody living in Greece who originally came from Turkey was dislocated and forced to return to Turkey, even if they had lived in Greece for 400 years. Likewise, Greeks who had lived in Turkey for hundreds of years were forced to leave for Greece. There were many complex issues of religion, family, land ownership, ethnicity, all of which were supposedly settled by the compulsory exchange of Greek and Turkish populations. What was certainly true is that this ethnic cleansing brought heartbreak to many families. |
November 2023 Board HighlightsRotary Club of San Francisco The Rotary Club of San Francisco Board of Directors met on November 28, 2023 via Zoom. President Sunny Singh called the meeting to order at 4:01 p.m. Nancy Graydon, Secretary, recorded the minutes. In attendance were Nancy Graydon, Bob Hermann, Margaret Miley, Alex Omoko, Scott Plakun, Bill Poppen, President Sunny Singh, Todd St Vrain, Christopher Wiseman, Ozan Yasavur and Frank Yoke, constituting a quorum. Absent were Emily Borland, Dan Davies, and Maureen O’Shea. Today's guests were Brian Lan and Mary Liu. Minutes The Board reviewed and approved the October 24, 2023 minutes. |
Membership News: January 2024The following are scheduled to be inducted into our Club: Niko Kowell (Educational Services | Narwahl Divers) Zunan "Phil" Ye (Information Technology - Administration | Snowflake) Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about these proposed additions to our membership. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS January 23, 2024: District Governor Laine HendricksPresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) called today's meeting to order at 12:16 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. He shared photos from the December 2023 Holiday Party and thanked Mary Liu (Real Estate: Sales | JM Real Estate Group) for creating the slideshow. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were Richard Swart from the Rotary Club of San Francisco Chinatown, Jenny Bates from the Rotary Club of Ignacio, Emily Charley from the Rotary Club of Mission San Rafael, and Donna Lee Gulley from a Rotary Club in Chicago. Our guests were Katherine Thompson and Karen Banks of Family House, Kai Parker, and Neeraj Miglani, a former member of our Club. |
Grants Cycle Opens Earlier in 2024As the leader this year of the Grants Review Committee, I am excited to announce that the 2024 Grants Cycle will open on Thursday, February 1, 2024. This earlier opening will allow our Club's Committees more time to seek grants from Club members in good standing. This year the final date for any/all grant submissions will be on Friday, March 22, 2024 to allow ample time for the following reviews: the actual Committees (March/April), the Grants Review Committee (April/May), the Rotary Club Board (April/May), and finally, the Foundation Board for budgetary approval (June).
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News from Our Youth Services CommitteeThank You from Scholarship Recipients This year the Youth Services Committee awarded nine $1,000 scholarships to students for their outstanding service to RYLA or Interact. The scholarships help students with costs associated with their education. This week we invite you to read Jenny Chen's testimony and Lizbeth Mendieta's testimony in which they thank the Rotary Club of San Francisco and share what RYLA and the scholarship have meant to them. We look forward to featuring more scholarship recipients' thank you testimonials in future editions of Grindings and at Club meetings! |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS January 16, 2024: Shirmila Cooray and De Marillac AcademyPresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) called today's meeting to order at 12:17 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. He shared a photo of himself riding a bicycle from the Bike Build. Today's Visiting Rotarian and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarian was Richard Swart from the Rotary Club of San Francisco Chinatown. Our guests were Immanuel Baur, Lavar Ivy, Michael Ciaccia, and Cathy Tolentino. We also welcomed today's speaker - Shirmila Cooray. |
On a Mission to Eradicate Polio in IndiaWe recently participated at Rotary International’s Mega Polio Eradication Mission in India. Arriving late in the night into New Delhi, we joined with Rotarians from California, Colorado, Australia, and Norway, and became a team of about 18. On our first day, we saw a few of New Delhi's gems. We marveled at the Lotus Temple, a Baháʼí House of Worship and an architectural wonder surrounded by reflecting pools. A visit to Lodhi Gardens with historic buildings dating back to the 15th Century highlighted the grandeur of India’s past. The National Museum also showcased the cultural accomplishment of hundreds of years of Indian art and diverse cultural offerings. |
Kwanzaa CelebrationA dozen Rotarians participated in a Kwanzaa celebration on December 29 at an annual community event sponsored by the OMI Cultural Participation Project and organized by the Executive Director of OMI-CPP, Club member Maurice Rivers. We learned that Kwanzaa is an African-American holiday based on traditional harvest festivals held in Africa. It is focused on teaching children important values while giving respect to ancestors. Each of the seven days of the Kwanzaa holiday focuses on a different principle, identified in Swahili:
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HIGHLIGHTS from December 12, 2023: Holiday Party and Annual MeetingWelcome to the 2023 Holiday Party Following the reception and wine auction, President Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) kicked off the Holiday Party. He shared what the holidays meant to him and asked others to share as well. Supporting the Ukraine: Next, President Sunny discussed how our Club came together and raised $10,000 in just one month. Allan Herzog (Financial Services: Advising | Wells Fargo Advisors) matched the $10,000 and made an additional $5,000 commitment to support this important project, raising our total to $25,000 for the Ukraine. Thank you, Allan! Membership: In the area of membership, our Club gained eight new members since July 1, 2023. Comments from DG Laine: District Governor Laine Hendricks (Public Relations and Marketing | County of Marin) expressed how proud she is of her home Club. |
An International Service OpportunityAlliance for Smiles is one of our corporate members and will conduct a medical mission in Gazipur, Bangladesh from February 12 to 23, 2024. Our Club Foundation is a major funder for this trip, and we would love to send someone from our Club to participate! For this mission, there is an opening for a record keeper. Here is a summary of the duties. The record keeper registers patients at opening clinic; enters medical information into a computer database; creates simple spreadsheets; keeps track of patient info and surgery schedules; makes sure that all forms are filled in accurately by the medical team; and performs various other clerical tasks. Candidate must be well organized and very computer literate. If you are interested, please contact Paul Vazquez. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS December 5, 2023: Woody LaBounty and San Francisco's Past and PresentPresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management), sporting a festive, holiday mustache, called today's meeting to order at 12:15 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. Today's Guests Anita Stangl (Medical Services | Alliance for Smiles) introduced her guests - Lisa Covey and Katheyn Hyde. Our guests affiliated with The Arc San Francisco were Nasan Barkhurel, Peter DeHaas, Cynthia Kreuz-Uhr, and Mira Yoon. We also welcomed today's speaker - Woody LaBounty. Membership News New Member: Anthony Alioto (Nonprofit Administration | Catholic Charities) was inducted as a new member of our corporate member - Catholic Charities. He formerly ran the family-owned US Restaurant and confirmed that all the Alioto's in San Francisco hail from the same Sicilian village, and they all consider each other cousins! He was welcomed with the traditional "We Will!" |
Stuffing Diaper Bags for the Homeless Prenatal ProgramRotarians and staff gathered this evening to stuff 45 diaper bags to be distributed at the Homeless Prenatal Program (HPP) baby showers on December 6, 2023. President Sunny Singh, Jim Patrick, Jo Patrick, and Rhonda Poppen of the Rotary Club of San Francisco joined Shellena Eskeridge and Sharon Bechtol of HPP in the assembly of diaper bags. This was an opportunity to give back to the incredible need of homeless or housing insecure families in San Francisco. |
Thanksgiving 2023: the meal that kept givingThe Rotary Club of San Francisco has a 16-year tradition of celebrating Thanksgiving with the participants of The Arc San Francisco. This year, a total of 515 meals were prepared for The Arc SF and The Salvation Army programs including Harbor Light and rehab services. Past President of our Club and Past District 5150 Governor Eric Schmautz, along with John Scopazzi (Rotary Club of San Rafael), led this project to prepare hot meals with a festive Thanksgiving theme for The Arc participants experiencing food insecurity. The event was kicked off with a grocery run of epic proportions by Eric Schmautz and Chris Davies. Eric and Johnny then prepared the food before serving it to The Arc. |
Membership News: November 2023The following is scheduled to be inducted into our Club in January 2024 as an individual member: Douglas Apple (Education-Commercial | Aquarium of the Bay) Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about this proposed addition to our membership. |
Walk to End Alzheimer's: a success story and a big thank youIn a remarkable display of community spirit, Rotarians from District 5150 and our Club (the second oldest Rotary Club in the world) rallied together for the San Francisco Walk to End Alzheimer’s on November 4, 2023. The event was graced by the presence of Past Rotary International President (PRIP) Jennifer Jones and her husband, Nick, who joined fellow walkers on this significant journey. Undoubtedly, the highlight of the day was our Club's active involvement. Our members who participated donned our custom, bright neon yellow vests that became a symbol of our collective commitment and made us easily identifiable throughout the walk. A keen eye would spot me center stage proudly holding our Club's sign just behind PRIP Jennifer. |
October 2023 Board HighlightsRotary Club of San Francisco The Rotary Club of San Francisco Board of Directors met on October 24, 2023 via Zoom. President Sunny Singh called the meeting to order at 4:04 p.m. Nancy Graydon, Secretary, recorded the minutes. In attendance were Emily Borland, Nancy Graydon, Bob Hermann, Margaret Miley, Alex Omoko, Scott Plakun, Bill Poppen, Maureen O’Shea, President Sunny Singh, Ozan Yasavur, Christopher Wiseman, and Frank Yoke, constituting a quorum. Absent were Dan Davies and Todd St Vrain. Guests included Ronald Bolden, Brian Lan, and Mary Liu.Minutes The Board reviewed and approved the September 26, 2023 minutes. |
Friendsgiving 2023On a rainy Friday night, almost 20 Club members and 8 guests gathered at the home of Margaret Miley to celebrate Friendsgiving. Among the guests was Alexander Kuch who is a Visiting Rotarian from New Zealand. Alexander was in San Francisco to attend the APEC conference. Everyone brought a dish or two to share, filling up almost two rooms in Margaret's place with great food. Thank you, Margaret, for hosting. We are all thankful to be part of a great Rotary Club and among such good friends. |
E-MEETING HIGHLIGHTS November 14, 2023: Jessica Hansen and Alliance for SmilesPresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) called today's e-meeting to order at 12:15 PM. Visiting Rotarian and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarian was Chrissy Moses who is a member of the Rotary Club of Los Angeles. Today's guests were Malik Seneferu and Tammy McNaught. Birthdays President Sunny Singh recognized the Rotary Club of San Francisco on its 115th birthday and expressed how proud he is to be a part of our Club. President Sunny also congratulated Emily Borland (Engineering, Architecture, and Construction | Emily Borland Specifications) on her birthday today! Those present sang Happy Birthday to Emily. |
Report from the Nominating CommitteeIn accordance with our Club's Bylaws, the Nominating Committee has selected these candidates for open positions on the Board of Directors: 2024-25 President: Bob Hermann 2024-25 President-Elect: Frank Yoke 2024-26 Vice President of Development: Maureen O’Shea 2024-26 Vice President of International Service: Anita Stangl 2024-26 Vice President of Membership: Margaret Miley 2024-26 Vice President of Community Service: Darlene Wilson 2024-26 Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Tim Hornbecker |
Service Above Self at Family HouseA new grant partner for the Rotary Club of San Francisco is Family House, a home away from home to provide physical comfort and emotional support free from financial concerns to families of children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. On November 7, Immediate Past President Christopher Wiseman along with his spouse Eric Sleigh and Club Members Alisha Marfatia, Dan Joraanstad, Bill Gregory, Nancy Graydon, Margaret Miley, and me (Bob Hermann) joined Family House Volunteer Coordinator Terrence Dixon to clean and sanitize kitchen and common areas, offload and distribute meals to those living at Family House, and interface with these families. Club Secretary Nancy Graydon even provided coloring books to the children. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS November 7, 2023: Ravinder Sehgal and Deforestation and Emerging Avian Diseases in the Democratic Republic of CongoImmediate Past President Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called today's meeting to order at 12:15 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. President Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) was feeling under the weather but very appreciative of the well wishes and good thoughts sent to him. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarian was Alexander Kuch who is a member of a Rotary club in Germany. He currently resides in New Zealand and attends his Rotary meetings at midnight. Today's guests from Catholic Charities were Everett Highbaugh, Morgan McCarthy, Tony Alioto, and Elizabeth Driskill. Also in attendance was Malik Seneferu. |
2023 World Food Prize Laureate Heidi KühnCongratulations to our Club Member Heidi Kühn for winning the 2023 World Food Prize Laureate. She was awarded the World Food Prize for her efforts in turning “mines into vines” by demining war-torn land and turning it back into prosperous farmland for local agriculture to flourish. During the award, Heidi was surprised to learn that prize amount had doubled to $500,000. Previously the award was $250,000. Read the full story here. |
To Eureka and BackCongratulations to the Rotary Club of Eureka (California) for celebrating its 100th birthday on October 10, 2023. Over a century ago, our Club played a role in the creation of the Eureka Club. Let's go back to June 2020 when we were on COVID-19 lockdown. I was your Club Secretary at the time and received an inquiry from Kim Bauriedel, M.D., of the Rotary Club of Eureka. He was gathering information for his club's Centennial Celebration and had a setback: the Tubbs fire near Santa Rosa had destroyed his club's archives and he wondered if our Club might be able to offer some valuable information to help him piece together his club's history. Dr. Bauriedel began with a request for information on Leo Lebenbaum. Leo is credited with organizing and creating the Rotary Club of Eureka. I contacted our own Past President Harold Hoogasian who was keeping our Club's archives, and he was able to find that Leo Lebenbaum had been a member of our Club from 1915 to 1925. Leo was a hotelier in San Francisco and had managed the Herald Hotel and later, the Wiltshire Hotel now known as the Taj Campton Place. Leo moved to Eureka to manage the Eureka Inn. |
SPECIAL EVENT Highlights October 17, 2023: Second Annual Rotary Fashion Show - Glitz and GlamourOn Tuesday, October 17, 2023, the Rotary Club of San Francisco – the second oldest Rotary Club in the world - hosted its Second Annual Fashion Show Luncheon at the elegant Hotel Nikko in San Francisco. This year's theme was “Glitz and Glamour,” and there were plenty of both. The event began with a beautiful reception and wine auction that showcased wines. These wines were donated from a private collection that is stored for the Rotary Club of San Francisco at the Handlery Hotel. Special Hint: More wine auctions will be offered throughout the year! Following the reception, Club President Sunny Singh welcomed attendees, showcasing his charm and wit to both the Rotarians and the many non-Rotarians. Attendees enjoyed a delicious three-course lunch, which was paired with complimentary white and red wine. President Sunny then introduced Vern Glenn, Sports Director at KPIX 5 TV and multi-Emmy® Award winner. Vern discussed his thoughts on the Super Bowl, San Francisco, Fashion, and life. After his exciting presentation, he led a Q&A, giving attendees an opportunity to ask Vern, a known celebrity, anything! |
September 2023 Board HighlightsRotary Club of San Francisco The Rotary Club of San Francisco Board of Directors met on September 26, 2023 via Zoom. President Sunny Singh called the meeting to order at 4:03 p.m. Dora Dye, Executive Secretary, recorded the minutes. In attendance were Emily Borland, Dan Davies, Margaret Miley, Alex Omoko, Scott Plakun, Bill Poppen, President Sunny Singh, Todd St Vrain, Ozan Yasavur, Christopher Wiseman, and Frank Yoke, constituting a quorum. Absent were Maureen O’Shea, Nancy Graydon, and Bob Hermann. Also in attendance was Executive Secretary Dora Dye. Minutes The Board reviewed and approved the August 29, 2023 minutes. |
Blue Angels' Extravaganza: A Sky-High Celebration to RememberRotarians, along with their families, guests, and fellow visiting Rotarians from all over the Bay Area, converged for an electrifying spectacle on Saturday, October 7, 2023. Picture this: a dazzling, front-row vantage point providing jaw-dropping vistas of the bustling Fisherman's Wharf and the mesmerizing expanse of the San Francisco Bay. What was the catalyst for this extraordinary gathering? None other than our Club's third annual Blue Angels Viewing Party Extravaganza! Under a canopy of San Francisco's finest weather, amidst the sizzling backdrop of a heatwave weekend, the heavens painted a picture of azure perfection, setting the stage for an unforgettable Blue Angels' performance. The skies thundered with their majestic maneuvers, and the synchronized choreography of the Blue Angels left the audience in a state of utter spellbinding wonder, their hearts racing with pure exhilaration. The event's location, spaciousness, delicious food, and decorations all contributed perfectly to the occasion. |
PRIP Jennifer Jones to speak at the Rotary Club of OaklandPast Rotary International President (PRIP) Jennifer Jones will speak at the Rotary Club of Oakland on November 2, 2023. The Oakland Rotary Club invites our Club members to join this meeting on Zoom for free. Log in by 12:20 PM. The meeting will be from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM. CLICK HERE to reserve your space for the Zoom meeting. That evening, all Rotarians and guests are invited to a dinner at Scott's Seafood at 2 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94607 in Jack London Square. Valet and secure parking are available. The cost is $110 per person to cover the cost of the event. Reception begins at 6 PM, and dinner will follow at 7 PM. If you want to attend, please buy tickets immediately. Dinner ticket sales end on October 25, 2023. If you have any questions, please contact Jesse Bowdle at 510-451-2120 or execadmin@oakland-rotary.org |
Remembering Past Rotary International President Rick KingIt is with great sadness that we share the passing of Past Rotary International President (PRIP) Rick King. Those who knew PRIP Rick know that he left an indelible mark and impact in Rotary that will continue to be felt. While he was never a member of our Club, he did speak to our Club on several occasions. See here for more information on PRIP Rick King and his memorial scheduled for Saturday, November 4, 2023 at 2 PM. Our deepest condolences to his beloved wife, Cherie; his family; and his club - the Rotary Club of Niles Fremont. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS October 3, 2023: Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia - What You Need to KnowPresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) called today's meeting to order at 12:15 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. Senator Dianne Feinstein President Sunny paid tribute to our member and US Senator Dianne Feinstein who passed away in her Georgetown brownstone on September 29, 2023. While mayor of San Francisco, she was among one of the first four women inducted into our Club. See more information on Senator Feinstein here. |
A Moment in our Club's HistoryPlease take the time to read this story all the way to the end. San Francisco is vying for the opportunity to host another Rotary International Convention. The RI Convention Visiting Team was in San Francisco in early September and will announce its decision in January 2024. Meanwhile, in mid-September 2023, Charlotte Harris of the Rotary Club of Tucson contacted our Club, because she had been organizing a storage area of historically significant items from her Club's 102-year history. Charlotte found proceedings books from 1938, 1947, and 1977 when the RI Convention was held in San Francisco and sent these books to me. Upon receipt, I began reading these proceedings to discover the history. I now share the Welcome Address by Arch Monson, Jr. who was President of the Rotary Club of San Francisco in 1976-1977. President Monson delivered the following at the 1977 Rotary International Convention: |
Member in the News: September 2023Congratulations to Christian Kuhn who has married Megumi Faibisch. The wedding took place at Wright's Lake among family members. Christian, his brother Tucker, and his mother Heidi are with Roots of Peace and members of our Club. |
Remembering Senator Dianne FeinsteinIt is with great sadness that we announce the passing of U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein. Senator Feinstein was a member of our Club from May 1, 1989 until her death on September 29, 2023. On July 1, 2023, our Club made Senator Feinstein an honorary member again; she had been an honorary member of our Club before women were allowed to join Rotary. Senator Feinstein was a native of San Francisco and served for nine years as a San Francisco County Supervisor starting in 1969. The assassination of Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk in 1978 forever changed her life. She went on to become San Francisco's Mayor and ultimately, California's first woman U.S. Senator. She dedicated the rest of her life to public service and to finding solutions to problems facing California and the rest of the nation. You can read more about Senator Feinstein's accomplishments in her biography. |
What's New in the Rotary Club of San Francisco!We reach the month of October, and our Club Calendar is filled with Committee meetings. In addition to the regular monthly Committee meetings, there are two new ones in October 2023: the 2023 Holiday Party Committee meeting on October 9, 2023 and the Rotary Climate Action Team's meeting on October 12, 2023. Please join one or both of these two meetings or any of the other Committee meetings shown on the Club calendar. We also offer special events in October: the Blue Angels Viewing Party on October 7, 2023 and the Glitz and Glamour Luncheon and Fashion Show on October 17, 2023. Rotary District 5150 offers a scavenger hunt on October 21, 2023 to commemorate World Polio Day; wear a costume to add to the fun. With so much to do, we hope to see you soon at our Club's events. |
August 2023 Board HighlightsRotary Club of San Francisco The Rotary Club of San Francisco Board of Directors met on August 29, 2023 via Zoom. President Sunny Singh called the meeting to order at 4:02 p.m. Nancy Graydon, Secretary, recorded the minutes. In attendance were President Sunny Singh, President-Elect Bob Hermann, Emily Borland, Nancy Graydon, Margaret Miley, Alex Omoko, Maureen O’Shea, Scott Plakun, Bill Poppen, Todd St Vrain, Ozan Yasavur, Dan Davies, and Frank Yoke, constituting a quorum. Past President Christopher Wiseman was absent. Today's guests were Stephen Geisheker and Bridget Mahoney. Minutes The Board reviewed and approved the July 25, 2023 minutes. |
Create a Brighter Future: Your Role in Recruiting New MembersAs members of the Rotary Club of San Francisco, we have a unique opportunity to help our Club grow. It’s exciting to help grow our Rotary family. How can you participate? It's simple – reach out to your co-workers, the merchants you do business with, your friends, and your relatives. After the many outstanding meetings, social events, and projects of the last six months, you know that we are part of something truly special. Ask your associates to join us at any of the events that we have: projects, meetings, or socials. Share these experiences with your cadre. New members bring new ideas and energy. Together, we will have more special times in helping others, making connections, and finding new friendships. Here are some specific actions to take: |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS September 19, 2023: Rodney Fong and a San Francisco Business UpdatePresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) called today's meeting to order at 12:15 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. Today's Guests We welcomed Shamrina Oshana, Maria Pechurina, and Danbee Song from the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce who accompanied today's speaker - Rodney Fong. Margaret Miley (Hospitality: Hotels | Retired) introduced her guest - Antal Runneboom. Lynn Luckow (Development | LikeMinded.org) introduced his guest - David Schleifer-Lee. Dan Joraanstad (Financial Services: Advising | Retired) introduced his guest - Sal Baglieri. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS September 12, 2023: Understanding Hong Kong's Competitive Edge and Latest Strategic InitiativesPresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) called today's meeting to order at 12:15 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. The audience sang Happy Birthday to the members who are celebrating a birthday in September. Visiting Rotarian and Guests Our Visiting Rotarian was Grady Mateen from the Rotary Club of Palo Alto. Today's guests from The Arc San Francisco were Esther Landau (on Zoom), Calvin Fitch, and Cynthia Kretz-Uhr. Hana Xu Wang (Financial Services: Advising | Wang Wealth Advisors, LLC) introduced her guest - Nilima Sabharwal. Today's speaker was Jacko Tsang; accompanying Ms. Tsang was Emily Ng. |
Serving our Community in August 2023Our Club completed two community service projects in August 2023. The first project was on August 26, 2023 when two members of our Club (Emily Borland and Victoria Lozano), two Visiting Rotarians, two non-Rotarians, and one RYLA alumna assembled and packaged food for distribution at the San Francisco-Marin Food Bank. Emily even brought her older son for the experience. In 2.5 hours, this group of eight packed 1,100 bags of produce that equaled 26,400 pounds. Then, on August 30, 2023, 10 volunteers (Rhonda Poppen, Robin Azevedo, Lisa Stark, Hana Xu Wang, Carrie Schucker, Jim Patrick, Bill Gregory, Jo Patrick and two friends) assembled diaper bags to give away to homeless or housing insecure families in San Francisco and stuffed invitations to the Homeless Prenatal Program's Annual Luncheon. Thank you to all for your service to our community! |
Welcome-to-the-Club Parties ReturnWith camaraderie and community, the Rotary Club of San Francisco resumed its beloved tradition of hosting Welcome-to-the-Club parties. These gatherings, which had been a cherished fixture on a quarterly basis before the challenges brought about by COVID-19, have made a triumphant return to the Club’s calendar. The first of these parties was recently held on the evening of August 24, 2023. Margaret Miley, with her signature warmth and hospitality, graciously hosted the event while the dedicated efforts of Dan Joraanstad and Margaret herself were instrumental in organizing an evening that proved to be nothing short of a smashing success. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as Club leadership, both established and emerging, gathered to celebrate this auspicious occasion. The event was graced by a crowd of 35 new and prospective members as well as Club leaders, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry of our ever-growing Rotary family.
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Membership News: September 2023The following are scheduled to be inducted into our Club on September 19, 2023 as individual members: Ronald Bolden Jr. (Medical and Life Insurance | Freeman Insurance Services) Paul Yep (University Administration | Academy of Art University). In addition, the following is scheduled to be inducted into our Club on September 19, 2023 as a member of our corporate member - Alliance for Smiles: Paul Vazquez (Nonprofit Administration | Alliance for Smiles). Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about these proposed additions to our membership. |
July 2023 Board HighlightsRotary Club of San Francisco The Rotary Club of San Francisco Board of Directors met on July 25, 2023 via Zoom. President Sunny Singh called the meeting to order at 4:02 p.m. Nancy Graydon, Secretary, recorded the minutes. In attendance were President Sunny Singh, President-Elect Bob Hermann, Emily Borland, Nancy Graydon, Margaret Miley, Alex Omoko, Maureen O’Shea, Scott Plakun, Bill Poppen, Todd St Vrain, Ozan Yasavur, and Frank Yoke, constituting a quorum. Dan Davies was absent. Also in attendance were Immediate Past President Christopher Wiseman, Executive Secretary Dora Dye, and Past President Mary Liu. Minutes The Board reviewed and approved the June 27, 2023 minutes. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS August 22, 2023: Miss Indian New Mexico, IncPresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) called today's meeting to order at 12:15 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. Everyone observed a moment of silence in memory of 2017-2018 Past President John Mathers (Management Consulting | eVo Associates). Visiting Rotarian and Guests PDG Eric Schmautz (Banking: Management | Retired) introduced his mother - Karen Schmautz from the Rotary Club of Indian Rocks Beach in Florida - and his daughters - Molly Schmautz and Katie Schmautz. Todd St Vrain (Education: Administration | University of Melbourne) introduced his guest, Tamicia Wakefield. Dan Joraanstad (Financial Services: Advising | Retired) introduced Bill Mathers and Peggy Mathers. Attending online were Brooke Nuwati and today's speakers - Nicole Johnny and Kari Vallo. |
John Mathers' New AdventureWe continue to pay tribute to 2017-2018 Past President John Mathers who passed away on August 6, 2023. At the August 22, 2023 Rotary luncheon, a letter written by John was read to the audience in accordance with his wishes. Present at this meeting were John's widow - Peggy Mathers and John's brother - Bill Mathers. Below is the letter: |
An Evening at the San Francisco PlayhouseMembers and friends of the Rotary Club of San Francisco gathered at the San Francisco Playhouse for drinks and dinner on August 17, 2023. After dinner, we watched the Broadway classic - A Chorus Line. A big thank you to Bill Gregory and Alisha Marfatia for organizing the delicious meal and the exciting show. I am extremely grateful for another memorable night with my Rotary family. Front row (l to r): Maureen O'Shea, Anita Stangl, Bill Gregory, Hana Xu Wang, Mary Liu, Dora Dye, Mary Fermi, Donna Duensing, and Rae Sensa. Second row (l to r): Margaret Miley, Robert Hunter, Henry Rubin, Carrie Schucker, Dan Joraanstad, Lisa Stark, President Sunny Singh, David Dye, Ann Daugherty, and Georgie Evans (hidden). Third row (l to r): Markham Miller, Rich Martini, Bob Hermann, Alisha Marfatia, and Doug Spradlin. Angel Gang O'Neil took the photo.
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Remembering Don ParachiniIt is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Donald Parachini. Don was a member of our Club from June 1, 1986 to March 8, 2020. He was a lawyer specializing in banking and financial institution regulatory law and solving problems with contracts and business transactions and had retired as a partner from Leland, Parachini, Steinberg, Matzger and Melnick, LLP. In Rotary, Don was very active, highly respected, and a much beloved member. For several years, he volunteered as our Club's legal counsel. See here for more information on Donald Parachini and his memorial. Sharing Some Memories of Don Here are memories from some of our Club's leaders who had worked with and known Don: |
Help the Victims of the Maui FiresBy now, you have heard the news of the devastating fires in the state of Hawaii. The Island of Maui has been consumed by fire that has destroyed the historic town of Lahaina, claimed the lives of more than 80 people as of today, and displaced thousands more. Rotarians are People of Action, and the Rotary Clubs of Hawaii (District 5000) have created the Maui Fires Relief Fund to provide immediate relief and support for the long-term recovery of Maui’s communities. If you are inspired to help our Hawaiian neighbors, please give generously. Let’s Create Hope for Maui. See more information here. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS August 8, 2023: JoEllen Arntz and SMUIN Contemporary BalletPresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) called today's meeting to order at 12:17 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. Celebrating an Anniversary President Sunny congratulated David Dye (Management Consulting | Retired) and Dora Dye (Education: Elementary and Community College | San Francisco and San Mateo Counties) on their 26th wedding anniversary today! Visiting Rotarian and Guests We welcomed Paul Vazquez visiting from the Rotary Club of San Francisco Evening. Mary Liu (Real Estate: Sales | JM Real Estate Group) introduced our guests from the Academy of Art University: Greg Grundstrom and Paul Yep, who replaced Michael Petricca (Education Management | Retired) at the Academy when Michael retired. Mary also introduced one of our Club's Honorary Members - Dr. Elisa Stephens (Education Management | Academy of Art University). Larry Booth (Engineering: Mechanical | Frank M. Booth, Inc.) introduced his daughter-in-law, Christina, and his granddaughters - Collette, Vivienne, and Gabrielle. Robin Azevedo (Retail: Mattresses | Retired, McRoskey Mattress Company) introduced her granddaughter - Marley. Other in-person guests included Robert Hunter and Hian Jin (aka Stellie Kim). Jennifer Schwartz attended via Zoom. Our speaker today was JoEllen Arntz. |
Remembering Past President John MathersIt is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Past President John Mathers. John joined Rotary on March 1, 2011 and became our Club's president in 2017-2018. He had served as Club Treasurer before becoming Club President. He was also active on the Board of the San Francisco Rotary Foundation. See 2021 story here. In Rotary District 5150, John had served as Youth Service Chair and Organizational Development Chair. You can read more about John in this 2016 profile. However, John is best known and now remembered for spearheading the Rotary Climate Action Team to raise awareness of the dangerous effects of climate change. His efforts began at the Club level but soon spread Districtwide and worldwide. John touched the life of every Rotarian and human whom he had encountered. |
A Big Thank You to Those Who Made the 2023 RYLA a Success130 new campers, 20 student alumni, and 30 adult volunteer staff took part in this year’s Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA) Camp, held from July 31 to August 4. It was a transformative and joyful week. A story about the RYLA experience will be published in the near future. For now, we’d like to recognize and express our gratitude to the following members of our Club who led and served the 2023 RYLA Camp:
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LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS August 1, 2023: State Senator Scott WienerPresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) called today's meeting to order at 12:16 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. Visiting Rotarians and Guests We welcomed Avis La Grone and Patti van der Burg, both visiting from the Rotary Club of Los Gatos, and Dr. Angelo Capozzi, former member of our Club and now a member of the Rotary Club of Tiburon Belvedere. Maureen O’Shea (Governmental Relations | Retired) introduced her guests - Michelle Andrews and Omar Rincon from Senator Scott Wiener's office. Angelina Preza (Sales: Travel | Aquarium of the Bay) introduced her guest - Ronald Bolden Jr. Emily Borland (Engineering, Architecture, and Construction | Emily Borland Specifications) introduced Sue Robbins from Catholic Charities SF. Scott Plakun (Management Consulting | The Plakun Group) introduced his guest - Murrey Nelson. Gary Dales (Accounting | Fly Leasing) introduced Jewel Harris from the National Park Service. Larry Booth (Engineering: Mechanical | Frank M. Booth, Inc.) introduced his guests - Michael Moss, Lisa Moss, Sam Moss, and Laura Foote and his son - Andrew Booth. Anita Stangl (Medical Services | Alliance for Smiles) introduced Margarita Baxter-Lazaro. Our guest attending online was Phil Ye. |
June 2023 Board HighlightsRotary Club of San Francisco Immediate Past President Mary Liu called the June 27, 2023 Board meeting to order at 4:04 PM. Stacey Poole, Secretary, recorded the minutes. In attendance were Gary Dales, Frank Yoke, Maureen O’Shea, Emily Borland, Lisa Christian, Mary Liu, Sunny Singh, Margaret Miley, Scott Plakun, Brian Lan, and Stacey Poole, constituting a quorum. Absent were President Christopher Wiseman, Jeff Lerner, and Wendy Shew. Also in attendance were incoming Board members Nancy Graydon, Dan Davies, Bob Hermann, and Ozan Yasavur. Minutes The Board approved the May 23, 2023 minutes. |
Membership News: August 2023The following are scheduled to be inducted into our Club as individual members: Merve Yasavur (Information Technology: Computer Science | Self-employed) on August 1, 2023. Margarita Baxter-Lazaro (Consular Affairs | Retired) on August 8, 2023. In addition, the following are scheduled to be inducted into our Club on August 8, 2023 as members of our corporate member - Catholic Charities San Francisco: Thomas Bowen (Development | Catholic Charities SF) Sue Robbins (Development | Catholic Charities SF). Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about these proposed additions to our membership. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS July 18, 2023: Lunch with SFJAZZPresident Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) called today's meeting to order at 12:18 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. New Members Inducted President Sunny and Anita Stangl (Medical Services | Alliance for Smiles) inducted Bridget Mahoney (Nonprofit Administration | Catholic Charities SF) into our Club. Bridget becomes the newest member of our corporate member - Catholic Charities San Francisco and expressed her excitement to participate in the many activities that our Club has to offer. President Sunny and Anita welcomed back Hana Xu Wang (Financial Services: Advising | Wang Wealth Advisors, LLC) to our Club. Hana had been an active member of our Club for a decade, but left during the height of the pandemic. Said Hana, "I missed Rotary during my absence and am glad to be back." A warm welcome to both Bridget and Hana! When you see either Bridget or Hana at one of our meetings or events, please introduce yourself to them. |
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) Camp Visit: August 3, 2023All Rotarians are invited to visit the RYLA Camp on Thursday, August 3, 2023 and join RYLA students and staff for lunch at 12:15 PM to 1 PM. Please note that lunch will be served only during this time period. Rotary District 5150 Governor Laine Hendricks from the Rotary Club of San Francisco will be present to speak to us during the lunch. You are also welcomed to arrive at 10 AM to observe the RYLA students' team-building activities or stay after lunch for the Mental Health Matters plenary session from 1 PM to 2 PM. This plenary session will be led by Jenny Bates from the Rotary Club of San Rafael Evening who is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the founder of Waves of Change Recovery Services and chair of the Mental Health Action Group in our Rotary District. |
Connect in Rotary District 5150There is no Club Luncheon during the week of July 24-30, 2023. However, as members of the Rotary Club of San Francisco, you are all invited to the Board meetings of our Club and of Rotary Service, Inc. As members of Rotary District 5150, you are also invited to participate in these two events: Vocational Service Virtual Session on SCORE - SBA’s Resource Partner for No Cost Professional Business Mentoring on July 25, 2023 starting at 12 noon. For more information and registration, click here. Sip & Savor Social in San Rafael on July 29, 2023 starting at 4 PM. For more information and registration, click here. See the Rotary District 5150 calendar for many other opportunities to connect with Rotarians outside our Club. This is also an opportunity for you to connect others to our Club events listed here. |
Opportunities to Become Involved with Youth ServicesOur Club's Youth Services Committee is seeking advisers for Interact and Rotaract. Advisers can work in pairs or small teams to support each Interact and Rotaract Club. Interact: Interact clubs bring together young people ages 12-18 to develop leadership skills while discovering the power of Service Above Self. Our Club currently oversees two Interact Clubs in collaboration with the Rotary Club of San Francisco Chinatown: one at Lowell High School and the other at George Washington High School. The adviser for each Interact Club must be available to meet in person either midday or after school once a month. Rotaract: Rotaract clubs were created to bring together young people ages 19-30 to take action in their communities and develop leadership skills while discovering the power of Service Above Self. Our Club currently oversees two Rotaract Clubs: one at the University of San Francisco in collaboration with the Rotary Club of San Francisco Chinatown and the other at San Francisco State University in collaboration with the Rotary Club of San Francisco West. While Rotaract clubs can now operate independently, a Rotarian adviser is still recommended for guidance. The adviser must be available to meet once every 1-2 months either in person or online. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS July 11, 2023: President Sunny SinghAs members and guests arrived, David Dye (Management Consulting | Retired) took a moment to look at the tables beautifully set and ready for our Club to begin a new Rotary year. Immediate Past President Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the first meeting of the 2023-2024 Rotary year to order at 12:15 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. photo by Dora Dye Induction of New President Joining Immediate Past President Christopher on the podium were our new Club President Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) and our new District Governor Laine Hendricks (Public Relations and Marketing | County of Marin). DG Laine expressed her pleasure at attending her own Club's luncheon in person and inducted President Sunny. photo by Jim Patrick |
Membership News: July 2023I am pleased to announce that the following is scheduled to be inducted into our Club on July 18, 2023 as our newest member of our corporate member - Catholic Charities San Francisco: Bridget Mahoney (Nonprofit Administration | Catholic Charities SF). In addition, former Club member Hana Xu Wang (Financial Services: Advising | Wang Wealth Advisors, LLC) is rejoining our Club, also on July 18, 2023. Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about these proposed additions to our membership.
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RYLA Bus Volunteers Needed July 31 and August 4Two to three volunteers are needed early on the morning of Monday, July 31, 2023 from approximately 6:30 AM to 7:30 AM to help check in 60 students heading from San Francisco to the RYLA camp. Two to three volunteers are also needed to supervise the pick-up of the campers when the bus returns on Friday, August 4, 2023 estimated at 5:30 PM and staying until the last camper is picked up around 6 PM. The pick-up and drop-off location is the Academy of Art University, 601 Brannan Street, San Francisco, CA 94107. Please contact Kristine Baltasar to volunteer and let her know which day(s) you can help. Please also copy me, Todd St Vrain, when you contact Kristine. |
May 2023 Board HighlightsRotary Club of San Francisco President Christopher Wiseman called the May 23, 2023 Board meeting to order at 4:02 PM. Stacey Poole, Secretary, recorded the minutes. In attendance were President Christopher, Gary Dales, Frank Yoke, Maureen O’Shea, Emily Borland, Lisa Christian, Mary Liu, Sunny Singh, Margaret Miley, Wendy Shew, Scott Plakun, Brian Lan, and Stacey Poole, constituting a quorum. Absent was Jeff Lerner. The invited guests were JT Forbus, Carlos Valdes, Nancy Graydon, and Luis Moran. |
What's New in Rotary District 5150As members of the Rotary Club of San Francisco, we are also members of Rotary District 5150. This year's District Governor is our own Club Member, Laine Hendricks. Her theme for this Rotary year is Connect. See the Rotary District 5150 calendar for many opportunities to connect with Rotarians outside our Club. This is also an opportunity for you to connect others to our Club events listed here. |
Ending the 2022-2023 Rotary Year with a FiestaOn June 30, 2023, the last day of the 2022-2023 Rotary year, members of our Club gathered at Nopalito to celebrate with tequila, mezcal, or any drink of their choice. Our Club provided the Happy Hour bites, and a good time was had by all. Present were Dan Davies and his guest, Social Chair Alisha Marfatia who organized this event, Anita Stangl, Maureen O'Shea, Lisa Stark, Ann Daugherty, Bill Gregory, Margaret Miley, Ozan Yasavur, and Merve Yasavur.
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A Message from the EditorThis issue of Grindings is the first one for the new Rotary year of 2023-2024. Our first meeting will be on July 11, 2023 when new President Sunny Singh and his Board will share their plans for the year ahead. Please plan to join us then and throughout the year to Create Hope in the World (this year's Rotary International theme) as we continue to find the new normal. To inspire you, read the following story of optimism and hope about the Patrick family. Join a committee, read Grindings, and check our Club Calendar often to find events and future meetings and register. Happy New Rotary Year and Happy 4th of July!
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A Grand 150th Anniversary CelebrationPatrick and Co., owned by Rotarian and Club Member James "Jim" Patrick III, celebrated its first 150 years in business on Friday, June 23, 2023. The number of years celebrated indicates the kind of optimism we find in Jim. Asked about the demise of San Francisco, he points out that foot traffic in his store is up, more people are on the streets, and the restaurants are doing a good business. And historically, the City has gone through numerous cycles of boom and bust. He puzzled over why at this time our City has captured the attention of the national press with such an angry and negative portrait. The journalists should hang out with Jim just to catch some of his optimism. More than 20 Rotarians were among the 200 guests who came to the Anniversary Celebration. We were treated to delicious food from three different food trucks. A pleasant cocktail hour high atop the Patrick and Co. building on Mission Street brought us beautiful views of San Francisco. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS June 20, 2023: Celebrating and Thank You to President Christopher WisemanPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the last meeting of the 2022-2023 Rotary year to order at 12:13 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. Visiting Rotarians and Guests We welcomed Past President and now Visiting Rotarian Casey Blair from the Rotary Club of Boise. Visiting us via Zoom was Lisa Schwie from the Rotary Club of Burnsville Breakfast in Minnesota. Thank you to Lisa for facilitating the wine donation to our Club. Dan Joraanstad (Financial Services: Advising | Retired) introduced former Club Member Xu Wang who returned to visit us. Donna Duensing (Education: Seminary | Retired) introduced Barbara Lowe. President Christopher introduced his husband - Eric Sleigh - on Zoom. Another guest today was Margarita Baxter Lozano. Today's Meeting Recorded You can view today's meeting by clicking here. Please note that you can only hear but not see the Fashion Show portion as the performers were not in front of the camera. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS June 13, 2023: Awards Ceremony - Honoring our Club MembersPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called this meeting to order at 12:15 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. Visiting Rotarians and Guests We welcomed four Visiting Rotarians today. First was Bill Stumbaugh from the Club Rotario Bahía de Caráquez in Ecuador. Bill is originally from San Francisco, but life's many opportunities took him to Ecuador. Next was Werner Sattlegger from the Rotary Club of Klagenfurt-Lindwurm in Austria who visits our Club whenever he is in San Francisco; it was great to see Werner again. Scott Plakun (Management Consulting | The Plakun Group) introduced his guest - Rabbi Jay Miller visiting from the Rotary Club of Burlingame. Finally, Malinda Monterrosa from the Rotary Club of Los Angeles joined via Zoom. Guests: Anita Stangl (Medical Services | Alliance for Smiles) introduced Club Member Kat Ebanks (Nonprofit Management), Kat's 6-month-old daughter, and Kat's mother-in-law Silvia Franceschini from Italy. Kat has been living in Italy. Mary Liu (Real Estate: Sales | JM Real Estate Group) introduced her guests: Ronald Bolden Jr. and Niko Kowell. Another guest today was Margarita Baxter Lozano. |
Partea for President ChristopherOn Saturday, June 10, 2023, more than 60 Rotarians, family, and friends gathered for an afternoon tea to celebrate Christopher Wiseman's tenure as the 2022–2023 President of the Rotary Club of San Francisco. Hosted by Dan Joraanstad and Bob Hermann at their lovely home in San Francisco, the tea included sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, petit fours, and, of course, tea and other beverages. The ‘partea’ was catered by one of Christopher’s favorite San Francisco spots - Lovejoy’s Tea Room. (Attendees were encouraged to dine at Lovejoy's on their own; just ask for Celine.) In addition to the tea and treats, everyone enjoyed a surprise performance by Dan Joraanstad and Rick Harrell. Dan played the piano while Rick sang three musical numbers including a favorite of Eric Sleigh and President Christopher - Fly Me to the Moon. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS June 6, 2023: Lunch with San Francisco Mayor London BreedPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called this meeting to order at 12:15 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Carmel Ballroom in the Hotel Nikko. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Our Visiting Rotarians today were Cristina Aquino from the Rotary Club of South San Francisco, District 5150 Governor Nominee Steve Wright from the Rotary Club of Pacifica, Past District 5160 Governor Jonathan Dwyer, Norma Faris Taylor from the Rotary Club of San Francisco Bayview, Brian Flaherty from the Rotary Club of San Francisco South of Market (SOMA), Lesley Kraechan from the Rotary Club of San Francisco Chinatown, Vanita Louie from the Rotary Club of San Francisco Chinatown, James O'Donnell from the Rotary Club of San Francisco South of Market (SOMA), Jim O'Grady from the Rotary Club of Petaluma Valley, Elizabeth Ranieri from the Rotary Club of San Francisco International Airport, Brian Rusch from the Rotary Club for Global Action, Howard Weathersby from the Rotary Club of San Francisco Bayview, Mark Williams from the Rotary Club of Midtown Atlanta, and Bruce Wright from the Rotary Club of South San Francisco. On Zoom were current Rotary District 5150 Governor Gary Chow, Past District 5230 Governor Joy Anderson, Past District 5170 Governor Richard Flanders, Past President of the Rotary Club of San Francisco Casey Blair, Past District 5150 Governor Peter Lagarias, Past District 5150 Governor Chris Gallagher, and Karen Schmautz from the Rotary Club of Indian Rocks Beach in Florida. Other guests were Matthew Hawes, Clavel Bascom, Margarita Baxter Lozano, Derrick Cooper, Nikki Cooper, Grace Kuth, Austin Louie, Dr. Toye Moses, Simon Yu, Michael Rabara, and Jean Rosenblum. Scott Plakun (Management Consulting | The Plakun Group) introduced his guest - John Cremer. Barbara Streett (Nonprofit Administration | The Arc San Francisco) introduced her guest - Steffany Dignum. Past District 5150 Governor Eric Schmautz (Banking: Management | Retired) introduced his mother-in-law, Jackie Herrin, and his guest - Neeraj Miglani. Robin Azevedo (Retail: Mattresses | Retired, McRoskey Mattress Company) introduced her guest - Christopher Kazas. Christopher Davies (Real Estate: Property Management | Self-employed) introduced his guest - Douglas Konecki. Carlos Valdes (Real Estate: Sales | Aeternum Holdings, Inc.) introduced his guest - Manny Posadas. |
Homeless Prenatal Program Baby Shower Bag AssemblyEight Rotarians from the Rotary Club of San Francisco gathered to pack 50 Homeless Prenatal Program (HPP) baby shower bags at Hoogasian Flowers on the evening of Thursday, June 1, 2023. The Rotarians (pictured from left to right) were Carrie Schucker, Bill Gregory, Margaret Miley, Andrés Vera, Luis Moran, Christopher Davies, and Donna Duensing. ~ photo taken by Rhonda Poppen |
April 2023 Board HighlightsRotary Club of San Francisco President Christopher Wiseman called the April 25, 2023 Board meeting to order at 4:04 PM. Stacey Poole, Secretary, recorded the minutes. In attendance were President Christopher, Gary Dales, Frank Yoke, Maureen O’Shea, Emily Borland, Lisa Christian, Mary Liu, Sunny Singh, Margaret Miley, Brian Lan, and Stacey Poole, constituting a quorum. Absent were Wendy Shew, Scott Plakun, and Jeff Lerner. The invited guests were Ozan Yasavur, JT Forbus, Bob Hermann, and Dan Davies. |
Membership News: June 2023I am pleased to announce that the following are scheduled to be inducted into our Club as our newest members: Brizette Castellanos (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) Stephen Geisheker (Technology Support | Retired) Brizette and Stephen will be inducted at an upcoming luncheon (date to be announced). Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about these proposed new members.
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LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS May 16, 2023: Lauren Kivowitz and Inclusive ArtsPast President JT Forbus (Accounting | Bogdan & Frasco) called this meeting to order at 12:15 PM and welcomed those online and those attending in person at the Anzu Restaurant in the Hotel Nikko. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Our Visiting Rotarians today were District Governor Nominee (DGN) Steve Wright from the Rotary Club of Pacifica and Joel Valdes from the Rotary Club of Manila. Robin Azevedo (Retail: Mattresses | Retired, McRoskey Mattress Company) introduced her daughter-in-law - Ahna Azevedo. Nancy Graydon (Development | Glaucoma Research Foundation) introduced her guests - Allen Habel and Catalina San Augustine. John Mathers (Management Consulting | eVo Associates) introduced his guest - Yuri Yasukawa whom John had met through Dan Davies (Information Technology: Consulting | North American Lighting). Other guests were Rose Chung, today's speaker - Lauren Kivowitz and her husband - Adam Weiner. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS May 9, 2023: Eric Schmautz and Rotary International ConventionsPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the meeting to order on time and acknowledged the upbeat attitude of the second oldest Rotary Club in the world. Guests Stephanie Schmautz (Elder Care and Senior Services | The Carlisle) introduced her mother - Jackie Herrin. Lynn Luckow (Development | LikeMinded.org) introduced his guest - TJ Chartrand. Margaret Miley (Hospitality: Hotels | Retired) introduced her guest - Margarita Baxter-Rosarios, formerly with the Consulate of Spain in San Francisco. |
Coming Together to Create a Successful Bike BuildThe 2023 Bike Build was held on Saturday, May 6, 2023 at the TogetherSF warehouse on Mariposa Street and one nearby block of York Street in the Mission District. This was our 13th Bike Build and our biggest one yet. Over 100 volunteers were involved during the event, including 20 Rotarians from the Rotary Club of San Francisco and 4 from other Rotary clubs. Volunteers built over 180 bikes in just over three hours that morning. These bikes plus the pre-assembled bikes donated by the YMCA and their partners filled up almost one block of York Street, awaiting pick-up. The Bayview YMCA was a major partner in the event and coordinated the sign-up for over 200 kids from the Bayview who received the bicycles. Excited kids and their families began lining up an hour before the scheduled giveaway time, and by 1:30 PM, all of the bikes were gone! |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS May 2, 2023: Lisa Grotts and A Tribute to Charlotte ShultzPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the meeting to order and welcomed those online and those attending in person inside the Anzu Restaurant at the Hotel Nikko. Visiting Rotarian Cynthia Hamada from the Rotary Club of South San Francisco sang the Star-Spangled Banner to open the meeting. Visiting Rotarians and Guests In addition to Cynthia Hamada, the following Visiting Rotarians were also in attendance: District Governor Gary Chow from the Rotary Club of South San Francisco and Loren Boyett from the Rotary Club of Fort Morgan in Colorado. Dan Joraanstad (Financial Services: Advising | Retired) introduced his guests from the San Francisco Black Tie Club: Don Morrison, Stephen Weiner, Norm Dito, Arnold Dito, Ben Wong, and Dan Riley. Ann Daugherty (Financial Services: Private Trading | IBN Financial Services) introduced her guests: Vicki Potthoff, Lisa Essa, and today's speaker - Lisa Mirza Grotts. Lynn Luckow (Development | LikeMinded.org) introduced his guest - Brian Healy. President-Elect Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) introduced his guest - Carlos Valdes. |
Anita Stangl Receives Rotary International's Service Above Self AwardCongratulations to Anita Stangl (Medical Services | Alliance for Smiles) for winning Rotary International's Service Above Self award. This prestigious award is for Rotarians and Rotaractors who demonstrate their commitment to helping others by volunteering their time and talents and is the highest RI award for a volunteer. RI Director 2021-2023 Vicki Puliz, RI President Representative John Smarge, and District 5150 Governor Gary Chow presented the RI Service Above Self Award to Anita Stangl on April 29, 2023. Only a District Governor can nominate a candidate for this award. Our current District 5150 Governor Gary Chow nominated Anita to recognize her dedication to Rotary and her work to save children and communities impacted by "cleft lip and palate by providing free comprehensive treatment, while training and equipping local teams to sustainably provide quality, long-term care." |
A Message from Your EditorDear Readers, I am writing to invite you to submit stories for publication in Grindings. I am especially interested in stories on recent Rotary events that you have attended. The deadline is every Thursday at 5 PM, and this will be a hard deadline so that I can get the issue of Grindings done in time for release on Sunday. If you miss the Thursday deadline, your story will appear in the following Sunday's issue or a future issue. Photos are welcome too, but photos alone without a story will not be published. I need a written explanation as well as identification of those in the photos. I am also following our Club's policy on photos: "By attending events of the Rotary Club of San Francisco, you are giving to our Club your permission to publish photos of you as an attendee at our events. If you have questions about this policy, please contact our Club." All stories and photos must be sent to me via email only. If you have any questions, please contact me. I continue to enjoy serving as your Editor. |
March 2023 Board HighlightsRotary Club of San Francisco President Christopher Wiseman called the March 28, 2023 Board meeting to order at 4:02 PM. Stacey Poole, Secretary, recorded the minutes. In attendance were President Christopher, Gary Dales, Frank Yoke, Maureen O’Shea, Emily Borland, Lisa Christian, Scott Plakun, Mary Liu, Sunny Singh, Margaret Miley, Brian Lan, and Stacey Poole, constituting a quorum. Absent were Wendy Shew and Jeff Lerner. The invited guests were Ozan Yasavur and Charlie Miles. |
Members in the News: April 2023Todd St Vrain and Lynn Luckow were guests at the Northern California Junior Achievement Hall of Fame Luncheon on April 21, 2023 where they were cultivating a partnership between Junior Achievement and RYLA. Todd and Lynn met many high school students interested in RYLA and a few college students interested in becoming facilitators at RYLA Camp. Lynn Luckow, Cristene Burr (CEO of Junior Achievement Northern California), and Todd St Vrain |
Membership News: May 2023I am pleased to announce that the following are scheduled to be inducted into our Club as our newest members: Robert Beadle (Real Estate: Sales | Coldwell Banker) Carlos Francisco Valdes (Real Estate: Sales | Aeternum Holdings, Inc.) Carlos will be inducted at our luncheon on May 16, 2023. Robert will be inducted on a date to be announced. Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about these proposed new members.
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Join us for the 2023 Bike Build!We need your help at the upcoming Bike Build event on Saturday, May 6, 2023. This is our 13th Bike Build and promises to be our biggest one yet. We'll be assembling 180 brand new bikes for distribution to kids in Kindergarten through 4th grade in the Bayview area of San Francisco. This event is a financial partnership among the Rotary Club of San Francisco, the Rotary Club of San Francisco Bayview, the Rotary Club of San Francisco Greater Mission, the Bayview Hunter's Point YMCA, TogetherSF, and the Academy of Art University. Also partnering with us on the event will be the San Francisco Police Department, the San Francisco Firefighter's Union, and the Salvation Army Kroc Center. In addition, the SF Bike Coalition and YBike San Francisco will have representatives at the event. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS April 18, 2023: Vern Glenn and Sports in the Bay AreaPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the meeting to order and welcomed those online and those attending in person inside the Anzu Restaurant at the Hotel Nikko. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were Past District Governor Chris Gallagher from the Rotary Club of Sausalito and Paul Vazquez from the Rotary Club of San Francisco Evening. Angelina Preza (Sales: Travel | Aquarium of the Bay) introduced her guest - Amy Heffner. Margaret Miley (Hospitality: Hotels | Retired) introduced her daughter - Laura Handlery. Robin Azevedo (Retail: Mattresses | Retired, McRoskey Mattress Company) introduced her son - Robert Azevedo. President Christopher introduced his husband - Eric Sleigh and guest - Anthony Clifford. Anita Stangl (Medical Services | Alliance for Smiles) introduced her guest - Robert Harris. Other guests were Rae Sansa and today's speaker - Vern Glenn. |
Celebrating PassoverOn April 11, 2023, members of our Club gathered at the home of Betty Newman to celebrate Passover with a traditional evening Seder, the special meal in which family and friends gather to retell (often in Hebrew) the story of how the Jews had fled from slavery in Egypt approximately 3,400 years ago. Those who celebrate Passover share stories of past Seders and think about how the redemption of the Jews from slavery so many years ago obligates us to build a better world. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS April 4, 2023: Supervisor Aaron Peskin and San Francisco at the Crossroads: Opportunity, Challenge, and ResiliencyPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the meeting to order and welcomed those online and those attending in person inside the Anzu Restaurant at the Hotel Nikko. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were Past President Casey Blair, Cynthia Bustos from the Rotary Club of San Francisco Sunset, and Joel Valdes from the Rotary Club of Manila and his son, Carlos Francisco. Our guests were Tony Coen, Holley Arbeit, Jack Grippi, Jeffery Douglass, Robert Harris, Sam Moss, Patrick Marks, Gent Sturgeon, and today's speaker - President of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors Aaron Peskin. Dan Joraanstad (Financial Services: Advising | Retired) introduced his guest - Mark Malaspina. Tom Christian was the guest of Dr. Elisa Stephens (Education Management | Academy of Art University) and Michael Petricca (Education Management | Academy of Art University). |
February 2023 Board HighlightsRotary Club of San Francisco President Christopher Wiseman called the February 28, 2023 Board meeting to order at 4:02 PM. Stacey Poole, Secretary, recorded the minutes. In attendance were President Christopher, Gary Dales, Wendy Shew, Frank Yoke, Jeff Lerner, Maureen O’Shea, Emily Borland, Lisa Christian, Scott Plakun, Mary Liu, and Stacey Poole, constituting a quorum. Absent were Sunny Singh, Margaret Miley, and Brian Lan. The invited guests were JT Forbus, Robin Azevedo, David Dye, Dan Davies, and Ozan Yasavur. |
In the News: Rick HarrellOn Sunday, March 26, 2023, Rick Harrell delivered the performance more fully described here. ABC 7 News was there; see the news story here.
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LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS March 21, 2023: Ann Killion and Bay Area SportsPresident-Elect Sunny Singh (Financial Services: Advising | PK Wealth Management) called the meeting to order and welcomed those online and those attending in person inside the Anzu Restaurant at the Hotel Nikko. President Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) was on vacation. It was noted that both Sunny and Christopher shared a passion for the same drink in Mexico. Happy Birthday The audience wished Clifford Phillips (The Arc San Francisco) a happy 50th birthday. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Mary Fermi (Education | San Francisco Unified School District) introduced Becky Rudd, today's Visiting Rotarian from the Rotary Club of Woodside/Portola Valley. Michael Petricca (Education Management | Academy of Art University) introduced his guest, Academy of Art University Athletics Director Brad Jones. Bill Gregory (Educational Services | Retired) introduced his guest, Donna Duensing who recently retired from the Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary. Also attending as our guest was today's speaker Ann Killion. |
Membership News: April 2023I am pleased to announce that the following are scheduled to be inducted into our Club on April 18, 2023 as our newest members:
Donna Duensing (Education: Seminary | Retired) Andrea Gung (Non-profit Administration | Duo Duo Project) Nikki Moore (Law | San Francisco District Attorney's Office) Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about these proposed new members. |
A Message from Your EditorOn March 18, 2023, Rotary District 5150 held its Spring for Rotary, a fundraiser for the Rotary International Foundation Annual Fund. This event complete with a mimosa reception, silent and live auctions, brunch, and celebration, was held at the lovely Marin Art and Garden Center and raised over $100,000 for the Annual Fund. With the beautiful flowers, hats including fascinators, and spring clothes all around, it did appear that spring had arrived. Pictured from left to right: Ann Daugherty, Carrie Schucker, Angelina Preza, Emily Borland, Bob Hermann, Dan Joraanstad, Sunny Singh, Dora Dye, and David Dye. Not pictured but attended were Eric and Stephanie Schmautz along with daughters Molly and Katie and District Governor-Elect Laine Hendricks. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS March 14, 2023: Jessica Hansen and Burning ManPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the meeting to order and welcomed those online and those attending in person inside the Anzu Restaurant at the Hotel Nikko on a very stormy and windy Tuesday. Today's Guests Bal Raj Capur (Management Services | The BTI Group) introduced his daughter, Maya Capur. Scott Plakun (Management Consulting | The Plakun Group) introduced his guest, Jack Schroeder. Other guests were Robert Hunter and Ronny Grooms. |
January 2023 Board HighlightsRotary Club of San Francisco President Christopher Wiseman called the January 17, 2023 Board meeting to order at 4:02 PM. Stacey Poole, Secretary, recorded the minutes. In attendance were President Christopher, Gary Dales, Sunny Singh, Wendy Shew, Frank Yoke, Margaret Miley, Jeff Lerner, Maureen O’Shea, Emily Borland, Lisa Christian, Scott Plakun, Brian Lan, Mary Liu, and Stacey Poole, constituting the entire Board. The invited guests were JT Forbus, Robin Azevedo and Grace Reed. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS March 7, 2023: Mark Flegel and the Young Paul HarrisPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the meeting to order and welcomed those online and those attending in person inside the Anzu Restaurant at the Hotel Nikko. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's visiting Rotarians were our speaker PDG Mark Flegel from the Rotary Club of Menlo Park and his wife Shirley, Mary Kay Kennedy also from the Rotary Club of Menlo Park, and Joel Valdez from the Rotary Club of Manila. Mary Kay is the wife of Jim Kennedy (Interior Design | James Kennedy Design). Joel and President Christopher exchanged Rotary flags. Our guests were Diane Stark from the San Francisco-Marin Food Bank, Caylee Burditt, Charlie Miles, and Nikki Moore. |
Membership News: March 2023I am pleased to announce that the following is scheduled to be inducted into our Club on April 4, 2023 as our newest member:
Charlie Miles (Software Engineering | Charlie Miles Inc.). Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about this proposed new member. |
2023 Emergency Services Day: Honoring Bravery and ServiceEmergency Services Day (ESD) honors the workers who protect and support our City and Bay including the Police and Fire Departments, the Sheriff's Office, the Coast Guard, and new this year, the Department of Emergency Management/911 and the Park Rangers. The Honorees for the 2023 Emergency Services Day held on February 27, 2023 were: Sergeant Joshua Arnold of the San Francisco Sheriff's Office; Park Ranger Amanda Barrows of San Francisco Recreation and Parks; Battalion Chief Matthew Cannon and Paramedic Anthony Chiacco of the San Francisco Fire Department; Officer Raylene Larot of the San Francisco Police Department; Intelligence Specialist 3 Mason Kuri of the United States Coast Guard; and 9-1-1 Dispatcher Marissa Manalo of the San Francisco Department of Emergency Management. There were members from nine different Rotary clubs, the honorees and their loved ones, and special guests in the audience. The audience was the largest ever for this special event. The sold-out crowd was in a jubilant mood as they entered the Academy of Arts sunlit Automobile Museum at Van Ness and Washington in San Francisco. The dazzling collection of antique cars framed 24 rows of dining tables running the length of the hall where the crowd enjoyed lunch. Special thanks to Club Member Michael Petricca and Honorary Member Dr. Elisa Stephens for the gift of this marvelous venue. |
A DEI MomentSince its first meeting more than one hundred years ago, Rotary has grown into an international organization with clubs in nearly every country and our membership sharing a singular passion for making the world a better place for everyone. We all come from Somewhere. We all have a Story. Understanding our identities better helps us see how our biases were formed. I recall our Family Values being expressed through stories told with inherited gifts and visits to places of historic significance. While I like to think of myself as “Quintessentially American”, my ancestors were mostly Western European: English, Welsh, Scottish, and Scotch-Irish. My family's story is about immigrants coming to a New World in search of a better life, freedom, civil rights, and the opportunity to survive and later thrive. |
Grants and Grant DeadlinesIt's Grant Season! The San Francisco Rotary Foundation is slated to grant at least $194,851 in the 2023-24 Rotary year. The deadline to submit a grant application is April 7, 2023—no exceptions! Application and additional information are found here.
The Committees in our Club have until April 19, 2023 to submit recommendations to me, President-Elect Sunny Singh, on how to allocate the funds. I will then present these recommendations to the Club's Board. The Board will review and forward the final recommendations to the San Francisco Rotary Foundation. Note: Anyone who received a grant for the 2022-2023 Rotary year (current year) must submit a final report by or before April 30, 2023. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS February 21, 2023: Semi-Annual Club AssemblyPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the meeting to order and welcomed those online and those attending in person inside the Anzu Restaurant at the Hotel Nikko. Ozan Yasavur (Engineering: Mechanical | Bioforcetech Corporation) introduced his wife, Merve, to the audience. Announcement Weekly attendance at our luncheon meetings suggests that our Club has only a few members, but we have over 125 members in our Club. If there is a member whom you have not seen in a while, please reach out and invite them to a meeting. |
2023 Super Bowl Party and WinnersAbout 50 Rotarians, family, and friends gathered together to watch the Super Bowl on Sunday, February 12, 2023. The crowd enjoyed laughter, fellowship, the game, and a potluck. In addition to watching the Big Game, everyone kept an eye on the board bearing the names of the players of our Club's Super Bowl Pool. $12,300 was raised for the 50/50 Campaign. The winners of the Pool (in order of their win) were: Dan Joraanstad, Scott Plakun, Allan Herzog, Jim Patrick, Robin Azevedo, Frank Yoke, Mary Liu, and Jeff Yih. Each winner will receive a Paul Harris Fellowship. Jim and Jeff will each receive two PHFs. Congratulations to all! |
Sign up for the Monday Night Supper Club with The Arc SFThe Monday Night Supper Club of The Arc San Francisco Friends Like Me Program returned to in person this past Monday, February 13, 2023. Nourishment and fun were had by all. The evening started off with everyone pitching in to dress the salad and heat up rotisserie chickens and Mac and Cheese. After dinner, everyone enjoyed games, dancing, and chocolate-covered strawberries. The Rotary Club of San Francisco funds the Monday Night Supper Clubs. Thank you to the following members of our Rotary Club for leading this evening's Supper Club: Christopher Davies, Clifford Phillips, and Barbara Streett. In addition to being a Rotarian, Clifford is also a participant and Barbara is also the Volunteer Manager of The Arc SF. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS February 7, 2023: Jack McBrayerImmediate Past President Mary Liu (Real Estate: Sales | JM Real Estate Group) opened the meeting. President Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) was under the weather and participated via Zoom. After Immediate Past President Mary made opening remarks, Past President JT Forbus (Accounting | Bogdan & Frasco) took over the helm and ran today's meeting held online and in person inside the Anzu Restaurant at the Hotel Nikko. Visiting Rotarians and Guests We had two visiting Rotarians: Melissa Cross - past president of the Rotary Club of San Francisco Evening and Joel Valdez from the Rotary Club of Manila. Joel and Past President JT exchanged Rotary flags. Joel told the audience that his Rotary club is 104 years old and the largest in Asia. Anita Stangl (Medical Services | Alliance for Smiles) introduced her guest - Andrea Gung of the Duo Duo Project, whose mission is to end the dog and cat meat trade in China. Maureen O'Shea (Governmental Relations | Retired) introduced her guest - Alicia Tos of the Smuin Contemporary Ballet. Other guests were Stephen DeLay, Jennie Held, and today's speaker - Jack McBrayer. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS January 31, 2023: Andrew Fraknoi and the James Webb Space TelescopePresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the meeting to order and welcomed those online and those attending in person inside the Anzu Restaurant at the Hotel Nikko. He announced that the Glaucoma 360 events from February 2-4, 2023 would take him away from today's Rotary luncheon; Past President Rhonda Poppen (Grant Writing | GRANTdog) would step in to conclude today's luncheon. Guests Today's guests were Marija Filmar, Dr. Arlen Hoh, Meagan Mod, Ildiko Polony, Eric Smith, and today's speaker - Andrew Fraknoi. 2022 Holiday Photos President Christopher shared the 2022 Holiday Photo of Emily Borland (Engineering, Architecture, and Construction | Emily Borland Specifications) and her family. |
2023 Super Bowl ProgramInvitation: Everyone is invited along with their families and guests to a big, free SUPER BOWL PARTY on February 12, 2023 starting at 3 PM. Doors will open at 2:45 PM and kick off will be at 3:20 PM. You are also invited to play the 2023 SUPER BOWL POOL. See details below, and contact Jim Patrick by February 10, 2023 to purchase your square(s). Registration and Potluck: Please register here so that we know how many are coming and so that our Social Chair Alisha Marfatia can contact you about the potluck. For the potluck we ask that you bring a dish for 10 to share with the group. Soft drinks and wine will be provided at no cost to you. Location: We will meet at the Academy of Art Automobile Museum, 1849 Washington Street (corner of Washington Street and Van Ness Avenue), San Francisco, CA 94109. If you are driving, there should be ample street parking on a Sunday. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS January 24, 2023: Russell Low and Spirit of the Early Chinese American Pioneers: One Family's StoryPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the meeting to order and welcomed those online and those attending in person inside the Anzu Restaurant at the Hotel Nikko. Guests Today's guests were Marija Filmar, Charlie Miles, Meagan Mod and today's speaker - Russell Low. Dan Joraanstad (Financial Services: Advising | Retired) introduced Peter de Castro (Financial Services: Advising | RBC). Peter is an active member of our Club who has been living in Paris. 2022 Holiday Party Photos President Christopher continued to share 2022 Holiday Party photos that he has received. Thank you to Ozan Yasavur (Engineering: Mechanical | Bioforcetech Corporation) for sharing his photos today with the Club. |
"Pal"entine's Happy HourSAVE THE DATE for "Pal"entine's Happy Hour on Tuesday, February 14, 2023 from 5 to 7 PM. Grab a post-work, pre-dinner drink to celebrate our Rotary friendships on "Pal"entine's Day! We'll be hosting a low-key get together at a member's home with light bites and drinks included. Feel free to drop by or stay for the whole time. All Rotarians and their guests are invited. More information to come.
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October 2022 and November 2022 Board HighlightsOctober 25, 2022 Board Highlights Rotary Club of San Francisco President Christopher Wiseman called the October 25, 2022 Board meeting to order at 4:01 PM. Stacey Poole, Secretary, recorded the minutes. In attendance were President Christopher, Gary Dales, Sunny Singh, Wendy Shew, Frank Yoke, Margaret Miley, Jeff Lerner, Maureen O’Shea, Emily Borland, Lisa Christian, Scott Plakun, Brian Lan, and Stacey Poole, constituting a quorum. Absent was Mary Liu. Club members JT Forbus, Dan Davies, Dora Dye, Rachel Donovan, and Jeff Yih also attended the meeting. |
Membership News: January 2023I am pleased to announce that the following is scheduled to be inducted into our Club on February 7, 2023 as our newest member:
Meagan Mod (Nonprofit Administration | Smuin Contemporary Ballet). Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about this proposed new member. |
E-MEETING HIGHLIGHTS January 10, 2023: Michael Conley and the Power of MusicPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM. Today's meeting was on Zoom only. Today's Guests Today's guests were Carolyn Broadus, Carol Ede, Alvin Huie, Meagan Mod, and our speaker - Michael Conley. Today's Meeting Recorded Today's meeting was recorded for all to enjoy. Click here to view the highlights. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS January 3, 2023: City Attorney David ChiuPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the first meeting of 2023 to order at 12:15 PM. He welcomed those online and those attending in person inside the Anzu Restaurant at the Hotel Nikko. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were Assistant Governor Sylvia Barry from the Rotary Club of Novato Sunrise, Rami Branbo via Zoom from a Rotary Club in Sweden, Past District Governor Peter Cheng from the Rotary Club of Hsinchu Silicon Valley - Taiwan, and Karen Schmautz - mother of PDG Eric Schmautz (Banking: Management | Retired) - from the Rotary Club of Indian Rocks Beach in Florida. We also welcomed Charlie Miles and today's speaker - City Attorney David Chiu. |
New Year's ResolutionsAfter the restrictions of the pandemic lifted, the aftermath changed the way we were to such a degree that we are still trying to find a solid path on which to move forward. Working from home became the desire of many, affecting attendance at events outside the home. Our Club continues to offer a variety of activities and events in different modes. As part of your New Year's Resolutions, we hope that you will find a way to join us. Here are some ideas: |
Recap of the 2022 Holiday PartyThe Rotary Club of San Francisco’s Holiday Party was held on December 13, 2022 at the Hotel Nikko. The festivities started early with fellowship, a chance to spin the wheel to win a prize, a make-up session with artist Lawrence Wu, fun at the photo booth, music by the Spencer Hoefert Quartet, and champagne. At 12 noon, President Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) welcomed Rotarians and guests and wished everyone a happy holiday season. |
A Message from Your EditorWe have reached the final issue of Grindings for 2022. I will be taking a break. Grindings will not be published on December 25, 2022, but will resume on January 1, 2023. We have already started to plan the new year. Take a moment to view the Club calendar for events in January 2023 and beyond. Registration is required for all events so that we can plan accordingly and send you additional information as needed. The Club continued its hybrid (i.e., meeting simultaneously in person and via Zoom) meetings in 2022. With the help of Social Chair Alisha Marfatia, President Christopher collaborated more with other Rotary clubs. President Christopher also tried more in-person only events such as the successful Fashion Show and Friend Raiser and 2022 Holiday Party. As of the publication of this issue, I have not received all of the information on the 2022 Holiday Party. The full story should be published in the next issue of Grindings. |
Highlights of the 2022 Annual MeetingPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the 2022 Annual Meeting to order on December 13, 2022. Club Secretary Stacey Poole (Law: Family | Lerner Poole & Stewart, LLP) certified that a quorum was present. President Christopher celebrated the current members of the Board and thanked each for their service. Next, the audience was introduced to the candidates to fill upcoming officer vacancies for the term beginning on July 1, 2023. President Christopher called for voting members to approve by acclamation the candidates selected by the Nominating Committee. |
In-Person Supper Club Returns to The Arc San FranciscoThe Arc San Francisco Friends Like Me Program will return to in-person services beginning in February 2023. Friends Like Me is a recreational program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities at The Arc SF. One of the programs that Friends Like Me hosts is a Monday Night Supper Club which is funded by the Rotary Club of San Francisco. Rotarians volunteer to help with meal set-up and then, sit, eat, and get to know our participants. Supper Club is a weekly event with 5-8 volunteers. We will be reserving the third Monday of every month (2nd Monday of the month if there is a Monday holiday) for Rotarians. If you are interested in volunteering for more nights, please contact Barbara Streett. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS December 6, 2022: Reverend Glenda Hope and Women Transitioning out of ProstitutionPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM. He welcomed those online and those attending in person inside the Anzu Restaurant at the Hotel Nikko. The meeting began with a holiday song to welcome the season of celebration and merriment. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were Steve Sibulsky from the Rotary Club of Valle Verde-Green Valley in Arizona, Karen Schmautz - mother of Eric Schmautz (Banking: Management | Wells Fargo) - from the Rotary Club of Indian Rocks Beach in Florida, and Carrie Schucker from a Rotary club in Davis. We also welcomed Ilene Wolf and today's speaker - Reverend Glenda Hope. |
Our Club Opens a New Door: Meet Clifford PhillipsClifford Phillips joined our Club in April 2022. He is also a participant of The Arc San Francisco, an organization that our Club's Foundation supports. What makes Clifford's membership notable is that he is our first member with intellectual and developmental disabilities, adding his unique perspective to our activities and conversations. Like all Rotarians, Clifford decided to join Rotary to help others and support the community – something he already does everyday in The Arc community. A native San Franciscan, Clifford grew up in the Bayview and Western Addition. He now lives in an apartment in the Haight Ashbury neighborhood. He is a lifelong volunteer and cares deeply about social justice. He is also a dynamic performer and public speaker and makes instant connections wherever he goes. |
Invitation to Join the San Francisco Chamber of CommerceThe San Francisco Chamber of Commerce invites members of our Rotary Club to join by January 31, 2023 and receive a 10% discount in membership dues. The SF Chamber of Commerce attracts, supports, and grows business through advocacy, economic development, and business development. Your benefits will include:
Click here for more information and application. If you have questions, please contact Sunny Singh before January 31, 2023. |
The Season for GivingThis past Tuesday was Giving Tuesday, a movement to show generosity and support within our community and the world. On this day, I reflected on what it means to be a Rotarian and how I can support the activities and service projects in our Club. After the world returned to meeting in person again, I found that my jobs took more of my time. Many people did not return to work, and the labor shortage meant that I had to work lots of hours. That meant less time to be at Rotary events and service projects. So I turned to giving more effort in serving as your editor and to donating more so that there would be funding to continue the projects that benefit our community. My husband, David, and I joined the Paul Harris Society. Recently, we were told that we have become Major Donors in Rotary. We see our dollars helping those in need. A great example is the recent Thanksgiving at The Arc San Francisco. On November 30, 2022, Barbara Streett wrote this thank you message: |
Membership News: November 2022I am pleased to announce that the following is scheduled to be inducted into our Club on January 3, 2023 as our newest member:
Carrie Schucker (Psychology | Retired). Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about this proposed new member. |
Notes from the 2022 Rotary Zones 26 and 27 InstituteCongratulations to District 5150 Governor-Elect Laine Hendricks from the Rotary Club of San Francisco who completed her Governor-Elect Training Seminar (GETS) the week of November 6, 2022 at the Rotary Zones 26 and 27 Conference held in Salt Lake City, UT. In attendance from our Club to celebrate with DGE Laine were PDG Eric Schmautz, Past Club President Stephanie Schmautz, and their daughters, Molly and Katie, Past Club President David Dye, and Dora Dye. They were joined by other Rotarians from District 5150 including District Governor Gary Chow, Past District Governor Danielle Lallement, Past District Governor Mary Bates, Past District Governor Jayne Hulbert, Past District Governor Ron Gin, Past District Governor Jeri Fujimoto, Past District Governor Russ Ketron, and District Governor Nominee Steve Wright. |
Thanksgiving Means Service Above Self for the Rotary Club of San FranciscoOne of our Club's favorite traditions, dating back over a decade, is to serve a Thanksgiving meal to the participants of The Arc San Francisco and The Salvation Army. Helping out this year were Eric Schmautz, Mary Liu, Greg Gutting, Tim Hornbecker, Peter Logan, Chris Davies, Sunny Singh, Gary Dales, Robin Azevedo, Emily Borland, Frank Yoke, Jim Patrick, JT Forbus, Stephanie Schmautz, Ann Daugherty, Rosemary Welde, Anita Stangl, Clifford Phillips, and Margaret Miley. Joining them were Visiting Rotarian Harry Eng, Visiting Rotarian Brandon Fleming, Past Club President Jimmie Jeffery, Erica Kaplan (Peter Logan's guest), James Wong (Mary Liu's husband), Rosie Liu (Mary Liu's guest), and special guests Molly and Katie Schmautz. |
Report from the Nominating CommitteeIn accordance with our Club's Bylaws, the Nominating Committee has selected these candidates for open positions on the Board of Directors: 2023-24 President: Sunny Singh 2023-24 President-Elect: Bob Hermann 2023-25 Club Treasurer: Bill Poppen 2023-25 Club Secretary: Nancy Graydon 2023-25 Vice President of Youth Services: Todd St Vrain 2023-25 Vice President of Club Services: Ozan Yasavur 2023-25 Vice President of Public Relations: Dan Davies 2023-25 Vice President of Vocational Services: Alex Omoko |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS November 15, 2022: Meet the Hotel ChefPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM. He welcomed those online and those attending in person inside the Anzu Restaurant at the Hotel Nikko. Rick Harrell (Arts Therapy | Heroes' Voices) played guitar and sang a song that he had composed on the tragedy of suicide among veterans. It was lovely and a touching tribute! Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were Brandon Fleming from the University District Rotary Club in Seattle, Washington, Sharon Herman and Arnie Miller from the Rotary Club of Brookline, Massachusetts, Andrew Quinones of the Rotary Club of Pomona, Julia Spark from the Rotary Club of Busselton-Geographe Bay in Australia, and Carrie Schucker from a Rotary club in Davis. We also welcomed Christopher Kazas, Diane Laster, and today's speaker - Executive Chef Adam Mali. Andrew, the grandson of Robin Azevedo (Retail: Mattresses | Retired, McRoskey Mattress Company), introduced Buster and Beau; they are two dogs belonging to staff members at the Hotel Nikko. |
Price Increase for Late Registration and Walk-inBeginning with the Tuesday, December 6, 2022 Club luncheon, the cost for in-person registration will remain $45 if you register early until 11:59 AM on Friday, December 2, 2022. When the clock strikes noon on Friday, December 2, 2022, the price will go up to $60. If you show up at the door on Tuesday, December 6, 2022 as a walk-in, you will be charged $60. This price increase will remain in effect for all future in-person meetings, meaning that each Friday before the next Tuesday luncheon, the price will go up to $60 starting at 12 noon. To save a few dollars, please register before noon on the Friday before. This is the cost that we pay the Hotel Nikko, and we must pass it on to you. The cost to attend via Zoom remains at $10. If you have questions, please contact President Christopher Wiseman.
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LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS November 8, 2022: John Rothmann and Election DayPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation), sporting a new look and perfect vision, called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM. He welcomed those online and those attending in person inside the Anzu Restaurant at the Hotel Nikko. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were Brandon Fleming from the University District Rotary Club in Seattle, Washington, Jean Schore from the Rotary Club of Eugene, Oregon, and Jesse Bowdle from the Rotary Club of Oakland. Maureen O'Shea (Governmental Relations | Retired) introduced her guest, Megan Mod. We also welcomed Troy Wilson and Yulanda Kwong from Cameron House and today's speaker - John Rothmann. |
ROTARY CELEBRATION HIGHLIGHTS November 1, 2022: Fall Membership Appreciation LunchIt was a raucous and happy crowd of Rotarians and guests attending via Zoom or in person inside the Anzu Restaurant at the Hotel Nikko that President Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called to order at 12:15 PM. Today's event was a Fall Membership Appreciation Lunch. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were Tekwane Mwendwa from Nairobi and Carrie Schucker from a Rotary club in Davis. Maureen O'Shea (Governmental Relations | Retired) introduced her neighbor, Rae Sansa. Margaret Miley (Hospitality: Hotels | Retired) introduced her guest, Robert Hunter, who was the stage manager for our Club's first fashion show on October 18, 2022. Bob Hermann (Information Technology: Administration | Retired UCSF) introduced Don Morrison, who has helped us over the years with our Bike Build Program. Ann Daugherty (Financial Services: Private Trading | IBN Financial Services) introduced her guest, Ken Tang. President Christopher introduced his husband, Eric Sleigh. We also welcomed Patricia Davico. |
August 2022 and September 2022 Board HighlightsAugust 30, 2022 Board Highlights Rotary Club of San Francisco President Christopher Wiseman called the August 30, 2022 Board meeting to order at 10:47 AM. Stacey Poole, Secretary, recorded the minutes. Attendees in person or on Zoom included President Christopher, Gary Dales, Sunny Singh, Wendy Shew, Frank Yoke, Margaret Miley, Jeff Lerner, Maureen O’Shea, Emily Borland, Mary Liu, Brian Lan, and Stacey Poole, constituting a quorum. Absent was Lisa Christian. Club member JT Forbus also attended the meeting. |
Membership News: October 2022I am pleased to announce that the Board of Directors of the Rotary Club of San Francisco unanimously approved San Francisco State University on October 25, 2022 as our newest corporate member.
In accordance with our Club Bylaws, the following will be inducted as our newest members in November 2022: Jaime Chaves (Education | San Francisco State University) Kevin Simonin (Education | San Francisco State University) Vance Vredenburg (Education | San Francisco State University). Some of you may remember Vance. He is a former member who wishes to rejoin our Club. Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns about these proposed new members. |
SPECIAL EVENT HIGHLIGHTS October 18, 2022: Fashion Show and Friend RaiserPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) welcomed over 90 members, Visiting Rotarians, and guests to our Club's first ever Rotary Fashion Show and Friend Raiser inside the Monterey Room at the Hotel Nikko. October 2022 Birthdays Today's special event opened with everyone singing "Happy Birthday" to members celebrating a birthday in October. See the birthday list here. Our Club's History President Christopher shared with the audience our Club's history from its beginnings in 1908 to the present. He explained that our Club is a community to make the world a better place and that our members joined for fellowship and service to others. |
EREY Campaign is underwayOur District 5150’s Annual “Every Rotarian Every Year (EREY) Fundraising Campaign” is underway. Through this Campaign, we support The Rotary Foundation’s Annual Fund Share where almost half of the donations go back to our Club as District Designated Funds (DDF). Our Club makes the decision how to use DDF, either for a District Grant supporting community service projects, a Global Grant, or to contribute to other TRF funds. This year the EREY Fundraising Campaign sets a target for each District 5150 Rotarian to contribute $250. Through our Annual Fund Share contributions, Rotarians ensure that we will continue to “Do Good In The World.” |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS October 11, 2022: Gary Schlossberg and InflationPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM and welcomed everyone attending via Zoom or in person inside the Anzu Restaurant at the Hotel Nikko. He began the meeting with some fun facts about inflation. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were Werner Sattleger from the Rotary Club of Klagenfurt in Austria attending in person and Carol Hunter from a Rotary e-club in Toronto attending via Zoom. Other guests were Gio Franco, former Club member Esther Landau, Zenna Burge, and today's speaker - Gary Schlossberg. |
Polio & Abilities Awareness ExpoThe eradication of polio is one of Rotary International's longest standing and most significant efforts. This year World Polio Day is on Monday, October 24, 2022. Rotary District 5150 is holding a Polio/Abilities Awareness Expo on Sunday, October 23, 2002. Our generous sponsors, Sanofi and PDG Russ and Kathy Ketron, have made it possible to offer to you “Buy One Ticket, Bring A Friend For Free.” The $20 registration fee includes lunch for the both of you. Please invite others, including the public, at this same discounted rate. If you have already registered and would like to bring a friend for free, please return to the Event Registration link below and click on “Manage My Account” to modify your registration. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS October 4, 2022: Lewis Loeven and Fleet WeekPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the meeting to order and welcomed everyone attending via Zoom or in person inside the Carmel Ballroom at the Hotel Nikko. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were Past District Governor Mark Flegel from the Rotary Club of Menlo Park, Dr. Lily Muldoon from the Rotary Club of Saipan, and Julia Spark from the Rotary Club of Busselton-Geographe Bay in Australia. Dr. Muldoon was a former member of our Club. Bob Hermann (Information Technology: Administration | Retired UCSF) introduced his guests: Lieutenant Jonathan Baxter, Louis Cid Rebolledo and Natalia Mashal. Angelina Preza (Sales: Travel | Aquarium of the Bay) introduced her guest, Shelby Taketa. Dan Davies (Information Technology: Consulting | North American Lighting) introduced his guest, Yuri Yasukawa. Other guests were Carrie Schucker, Captain Brian Quin, and today's speaker - Lewis Loeven. |
Committee Meetings in the week aheadOur Club's calendar lists all events and meetings including Committee Meetings. During the week of October 9, 2022 to October 15, 2022, the Vocational Service Committee will meet on Monday, October 10, 2022 at 5 PM. Register here. The Membership Committee will meet on Wednesday, October 12, 2022 at 12 noon. Register here. |
July 2022 Board HighlightsRotary Club of San Francisco President Christopher Wiseman called his first Board meeting via Zoom to order at 4:02 PM. Stacey Poole, Secretary, recorded the minutes Present were President Christopher, Gary Dales, Sunny Singh, Wendy Shew, Lisa Christian, Frank Yoke, Margaret Miley, Jeff Lerner, Maureen O’Shea, Emily Borland, Mary Liu, and Stacey Poole, constituting a quorum. Brian Lan was absent. Club Member Scott Plakun also attended the meeting. |
Remembering Our Friend, Marian SorboIt is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Marian Sorbo. Marian was never a member of our Club, but she was a dedicated Rotarian and a Paul Harris Fellow of the Rotary Club of Windsor/Windsor Locks. She was the widow of a Past District Governor in Connecticut and the mother of a local friend of our own Scott Plakun. Marian participated in several Thanksgiving luncheons at The Arc San Francisco with us. She visited our Club and generated a strong kinship within our Club. While attending Rotary International conventions, she made it a point to befriend members of our Club. See here for more information on Marian Sorbo and her celebration of life. |
Committee Meetings in the week aheadOur Club's calendar lists all events and meetings including Committee Meetings. During the week of October 2, 2022 to October 8, 2022, the Speakers Committee will meet on Wednesday, October 5, 2022 at 2 PM. Larry Booth is the new Chair of the Speakers Committee. Register here. The Community Service Committee will also meet on Wednesday, October 5, 2022 at 6 PM. Project leaders joining this meeting should be prepared to share information about their project. Everyone else is encouraged to join to learn about all of our latest local community service projects. Contact Emily Borland for additional information. Register here. |
ALPS Book Drive: a successAction Leadership Program with Students (ALPS) students Presley, Emma, and Mirabelle led a successful book drive for the Jefferson Elementary School District in Daly City. The goal was to collect used and unwanted children's books and redistribute them to a place in need. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS September 20, 2022: San Francisco Police Chief Bill ScottPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the meeting to order and shared some historical facts about the San Francisco Police Department. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were District Governor Nominee and Chief of Staff Steve Wright from the Rotary Club of Pacifica, Carrie Chinn and Rick Chinn from the Rotary Club of Millbrae, Julia Spark from the Rotary Club of Busselton-Geographe Bay in Australia, Marilyn Becklehimer from the Rotary Club of San Francisco Sunset, and Rey Naik from the Rotary Club of San Francisco Evening. Maureen O'Shea (Governmental Relations | Retired) introduced her guests: Catherine Liang (our reigning Miss California), Daniel Riley, Debra Leylegian, Robert Beedle, and Torrance Bynum. Luis Moran (Real Estate: Sales | Coldwell Banker) introduced his guest, Blaire Jahn. Other guests were Carrie Shucker, Jackie Herrin, Guadalupe Valenzuela, Lilli Milton, Sergeant Vic Lee, and today's speaker - San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott. |
Champagne Tasting: Mix and MingleOn Wednesday, September 14, 2022, our Club's Vocational Services Committee held its first networking event to kick off the year! The event was a Champagne Tasting with champagne from Chandon donated by Jason Nyeh, a start-up founder, and snacks and truffles provided by Trader Joe’s. Club members who participated were CJ Albano, Jenny Campbell, Mary Liu, Wendy Shew, and Ozan Yasavur. Joining them were guests, bringing the attendance to 15 and professions in real estate, banking, life insurance, education, and engineering. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS September 13, 2022: Meet President Malinda MonterrosaPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the meeting to order and welcomed everyone attending via Zoom or in person inside the Anzu Restaurant at the Hotel Nikko. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were President-Elect Leena Pem Sewpaul of the Rotary Club of Montebello, Mauritius and President Malinda Monterrosa of the Rotary Club of Los Angeles. Our guests were Clifford Phillips, Pamela George, Katherine Grillo, Isabella Montgomery, and Erica Nave. |
What's Happening Between the Rotary Club of San Francisco and the Homeless Prenatal Program?On August 30, 2022, Rotarians met at the warehouse of Hoogasian Flowers to generously stuff 60 backpacks with adorable and top quality clothing and items for newborns of mothers taking classes at the HPP. Many thanks to Harold Hoogasian for offering his warehouse space to assemble the backpacks. Harold also generously donated his own time to deliver the backpacks to the HPP. On September 7, 2022, Club members Victoria Lozano and Robin Azevedo respectively attended the morning and early afternoon baby showers at the HPP building where a dozen expectant mothers were honored. Each of these mothers received one of the Rotary backpacks and other baby items; each was recognized for completing the HPP prenatal classes. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS August 30, 2022: District Governor Gary Chow's VisitPresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the meeting to order and welcomed everyone attending via Zoom or in person inside the Carmel Room of the Hotel Nikko. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were District Governor Gary Chow from the Rotary Club of South San Francisco and District Governor Nominee and Chief of Staff Steve Wright from the Rotary Club of Pacifica. Attending in his capacity as Assistant Governor was David Dye (Management Consulting | Retired). Our guest today was Zara Rowbotham. |
Committee Meetings in the week aheadOur Club's calendar lists all events and meetings including Committee Meetings. During the week of August 21, 2022 to August 27, 2022, the Vocational Service Committee will meet on Monday, August 22, 2022 at 5 PM. Register here. The Development Committee will meet on Wednesday, August 24, 2022 at 12 noon. Register here. The 2023 Emergency Services Day Committee will meet on Wednesday, August 24, 2022 at 6 PM. Register here.
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E-MEETING HIGHLIGHTS August 16, 2022: Dan Walters and California's State of the StatePresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) logged in from Stockholm, Sweden and called the meeting to order at 12:15 PM Pacific time. Today's meeting was on Zoom only. Visiting Rotarian and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarian was Edgar Hernandez Delgado from a Rotary club in Morelia, Mexico. Today's guest was our speaker - Dan Walters. |
Nomination for 2024-2025 Rotary International President AnnouncedStephanie A. Urchick of the Rotary Club of McMurray, Pennsylvania has been nominated to be President of Rotary International for 2024-2025, making her only the second woman to hold this position. Read the full story here.
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Rotary 101 August 9, 2022: HighlightsOur new Rotary 101 classes began this past Tuesday, August 9, 2022. Dan Joraanstad led the first meeting covering the nuts and bolts of being a new member: online resources, the structure of Rotary, the primary officers on the Rotary Board, how to get involved as a Club leader, and last, how to propose a new project. A few long-term members joined the meeting to lend assistance as well as new members interested in getting a broad overview. The people who attended were Rachel Donovan, Jeff Yih, Ozan Yasavur, CJ Albano, Bob Hermann, Anita Stangl, Nancy Graydon, Maureen O'Shea, JT Forbus, Dan Joraanstad, and Margaret Miley. |
LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS August 9, 2022: Kevin McCormack and how California is turning the promise of stem cell and gene therapies into realityPast President JT Forbus (Accounting | Bogdan & Frasco) called the meeting to order at 12:16 PM and welcomed everyone attending either online or in person inside the Anzu Restaurant. President Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) was on vacation and will return at our next luncheon. Visiting Rotarians and Guests Today's Visiting Rotarians were Terry Chu from the Rotary Club of Shanghai and Sandhya Jaiprakash of the Rotary Club of Bangalore. Our guests were Rex Vokey; Derick Yih - guest of Jeff Yih (Retired); Dan Carico - husband of Esther Lerner (Law: Family | Lerner Poole & Stewart, LLP); Georgie Evans - guest of Bill Gregory (Educational Services | Retired); and today's speaker - Kevin McCormack. |
Committee Meetings in the week aheadOur Club's calendar lists all events and meetings including Committee Meetings. During the week of August 7, 2022 to August 13, 2022, the Membership Committee will meet on Wednesday, August 10, 2022 at 12 noon. Register here. The Speakers Comittee will also meet on Wednesday, August 10, 2022 at 2 PM. Register here.
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LUNCHEON MEETING HIGHLIGHTS August 2, 2022: Dmytro Kushneruk and an Update on UkrainePresident Christopher Wiseman (Nonprofit Management | Glaucoma Research Foundation) called the meeting to order at 12:17 PM and welcomed everyone attending either online or in person inside the Anzu Restaurant. Due to the large number of Visiting Rotarians and Special Guests today, President Christopher had all visitors in person and online stand for a big round of applause. In Solidarity with Ukraine What a moving meeting! The room and the agenda were packed full! Club members and guests stood in solidarity as the National Anthem of Ukraine was powerfully sung by Natalie Ter-Agopova, a soprano soloist, who is a choir mate of Ann Daugherty (Financial Services: Private Trading | IBN Financial Services). Brightening the room were two very large baskets of sunflowers (the Ukrainian national flower), thoughtfully donated by Harold Hoogasian (Retail: Florist | Hoogasian Flowers). |